Note To Readers: I am SO SO SO sorry guys, I have been going through a lot of emotional things these past several months. When I realized how long it had been since I last updated I was shocked! To make it up to you i'm going to write an extra LONG chapter, Most likely in Two Parts. My book is very close to being finished too. So I want to thank everyone for their patience and support along with their kind words.
Chapter 121: The Red Thread Of Fate...
Against her better judgement, Roxy followed The mysterious young woman inside her home. On the inside she saw that nearly everything had a hint of purple and black with a small cauldron on the table in the living room. It was resting next to the purple candles with flickering black flame. Just breathing in, the air was scented with lavender. Roxy heard the door slowly close behind them as Michiko extended out her arm towards the velvet purple couch. In fact, there were already tea cups awaiting them, as if she had been expecting company.
Roxy gradually took a seat upon the couch as she watched silently as Michiko grabbed the ladle from the cauldron and poured a warm liquid into one of the cups nearest to the faerie of animals. Roxy only looked at the cup skeptically.
"I Assure You It's Not Poison. Do Try To Make Yourself Comfortable...For There Is Much To Discuss...After All...I Already Know That You Have Come Here From The Distant Future To Acquire The Flame Of Eternity...Or Need I Say Again...That This Was Meant To Happen...Your Coming Here...The Threads Of Fate were Already Intertwining...Without Your Knowing Of it..."
The Witch mused as Roxy twisted her mouth slightly. "If you know THAT much then you must understand why I don't have time for this right now! My friend Bright is in SERIOUS trouble! If we don't do something soon The AOJ leader could trap him here in the past FOREVER!" the faerie cried out with a deep urgency in her voice as panic took hold within Roxy.
"Yes...I Too Have Been Rather Disturbed By The Actions Of Those Who Would Seek To Disrupt The Order Of The Gods...The Angels Of Justice Continue To Be A Thorn In My Side Yet Still...Be It Past, Present Or Future...However...Even I Didn't Count On Them Using Time Manipulation Through Another's Time Stream...It Was A Clever Move To Ensure Their Presence Was Not Easily Detected..." Michiko confessed as Roxy frowned.
"Bu-But! I still don't understand! Why exactly did they go after Prince Bright? It just doesn't make any sense!" the faerie of animals exclaimed before The Witch Of The Abyss began to raise her finger and pointed towards the moon pendant that was wrapped snugly around Roxy's neck. "Roxy...Do You See That Pendant Around Your Neck?...That Necklace Is A Symbol For The Great Mage..." Michiko began. Slowly, the faerie turned her gaze downwards. "Wait This?" Roxy questioned.
"Yes, The Great Mage Artemis Moon...His Light Guides Those He Left Behind That Once Belonged To His Court...The Court Of Twilight..." The Witch Continued. "Among The Court Were Thirteen Individuals That Were Given His Complete Trust...And Delving into Bright's Mind...The Leader Of The AOJ Believes He Can Learn A Great Deal From Him..." Michiko explained simply. "Well, That's Not Entirely True...Bright Is Merely A Means To An End..." the Witch corrected herself.
"So...Bright was just being used as bait then?" Roxy questioned. "Precisely..." Michiko answered. Now Roxy was even more confused. At this point her head was ready to explode. "E-Even if that's case That doesn't make any sense! The AOJ is after The Black Power Right? Isn't That Why They're attacking the temples in each world? To get the items that have it sealed within them? So why the need for The Court of whatever?" the faerie asked before the door opened suddenly as Muna entered the cozy house.
"Oh good you were here after all, I'm so relieved..." Muna breathed a sigh of relief. "Miss Muna!?" Roxy exclaimed in surprise. "My apologies for my absence...but I couldn't help but hear the conversation...a-as you yourself said earlier Roxy...I really did think that the A.O.J leader traveled back in time to claim on of the items connected to The Black Power as well...but I was GREATLY mistaken...this is all of my fault..." Muna frowned as she sat down in a nearby chair. Unfortunately, as she did so, she bumped the table and caused the full cup of liquid to spill over towards Roxy.
"O-Oh dear! I'm so sorry! How embarrassing...allow me to clean that up!" Muna cried out and fumbled to grab a napkin or something to that effect. "Wait! Here, let me help You!" Roxy offered before the two ended up bumping each other's heads hard. "Ow..." the faerie groaned as Muna turned red in the face from utter embarrassment. "Ohhh...my apologies Roxy...forgive me...I fear I am ill suited to be in such a place...I've caused you trouble further..." the blonde haired female apologized.
"No! No! Please don't say that Miss Muna! It was my fault for worrying you and sending you out here in the first place...We appreciate your help, REALLY we do..." Roxy countered. "Roxy..." Muna murmured softly taken back by her words before Michiko's voice interrupted their conversation. "Don't Move, Please..." the Witch requested before the tea leaves that were spilled upon the table began to form into various shapes right before their very eyes. With aura poured into them, the tea leaves formed several shapes. The first was a Crescent Moon. The Second an Hammer, The Third Phoenix, The Fourth was a Skull, and the very last to form was an emblem of The Sun. However, Roxy couldn't help but notice that the Sun was further away than the others as her purple eyes widened in awe. "Woah! How did that happen!?" the faerie questioned.
"It Tis A Type Of Fortune Telling...Known As Tasseography...One Takes Their Aura And Imbues It Into The Tea Leaves, Doing So Reveal Images Of Small...or Significant Value...But, Not Everyone Is Gifted With This Ability...And Even If They Posess It As A Blessing From The Gods...They Must Use It Very Wisely...Otherwise They May End Up Learning More Than They Wish To Know...Indeed...There Are Some Of Those Whom Believe They Can Call Upon The Power Of These Gifts In Order To See What Normally One Could Not...However...When One Isn't Bestowed With It By The Gods...It Can Burn You...And Sometimes Even Call Other Things Into Being..." Michiko told Roxy whom only swallowed hard upon her words.
"Yes...Power Can Be A Grand Asset To One's Prosperity...But...It Can Just As Easily Sow The Seeds Of Disaster...For You See...Some Believe Also That Only Through Power...Can One Obtain What They Need In Order To Survive...Or Perhaps...Even Change Their Worlds...And That Is Precisely What I See In Front Of Me...Roxy...Place Your Hand On Top Of Mine If You Would, Like So..." The Witch instructed. "Um...Ok...I guess...like this...?" the faerie of animals questioned as she did as asked.
"So...now what?" Roxy questioned. "Close Your Eyes...And Open Your Mind...Allow The Gift Within You...To Reveal The Message In Front Of You..." Michiko coaxed before the faerie slowly closed her eyes. It was only then, Roxy saw within her mind a tower, one made of crystal that was surrounded by snow. As she gazed at that tower she could hear The Witch's voice echo in her ears.
(It's Known As The Twilight Tower...It Tis Where The Court Of Twilight Held Their Meeting Once Upon A Time...A Great Many Things Transpired There...But One That Stood Out Above All The Rest...Were The Creation Of The Legacies Of The Gods...) Michiko commented. "The Legacies Of The Gods?" Roxy asked as she tilted her head before she gasped as a blinding light took her within the tower itself and among it stood Artemis Moon, The Phoenix and The Crafter in a circle.
"I'm afraid this is the only way...in order to protect our dear creations we MUST sacrifice our divinity...for if we were to go to each world now...merely one single step would destroy the planet and those within it...we CANNOT allow Death's curse to claim those we made to walk with us all through eternity..."
The Great Mage uttered as his eyes burned with a serious upon the likes of which Roxy had never witnessed before. It was then her eyes were turned towards an older gentlemen that was adorned in a black cloak and armor. "Perhaps Old Friend...However Without Our Divinity We Too Will Eventually Succumb To Death's Curse Of Old Age...Mortal Beings...Can We Not Just Erase All Death Has Touched And Begin Again? Surely With Our Powers That Would Be But A Simple Task..." The Crafter mused before The Phoenix interrupted almost immediately.
"You are the Crafter...the one whom builds the very foundation of the planets and the people who live upon them...each one is special and unique...you should know well that you cannot replace them with another...a life that is born into this world is precious! So I know you do not truly mean that...not as the creator who put such thought, time and care into your creations...if you were to destroy them...you'd come to regret it..." the Goddess began.
"...PLEASE do not forget Lord Crafter, that these aren't only YOUR creations...for I gave them dreams...hope...emotions...of many different kinds...to feel the joy of life all around them...Artemis Moon breathed life into them...bestowed upon them a spirit to hold and process their powerful emotions...a mind in which they can think...words they can speak...a heart to love as we love them...and magic...so they can always be able to feel our presence...even when we are not with them...The Eternity that was supposed to be our ultimate gift to them...but it was stolen by Death's selfishness...I Want...To Give It Back To Them..." The Phoenix murmured softly.
"As Do I...But Even If We Do Have To Sacrifice Our Divinity...Isn't It Worth It Just To Be Able To Walk Amongst Our Children?...Those We Made Precious With Our Own Two Hands? Yet Unable To So Much As To Interact With Them...I'd Rather Have A True Relationship...Than Be A Feared Deity Whom Is Only Worshipped In Name Alone...Don't You Wish For That As Well...Daphne...Antiginous? Isn't That Reason Enough...?" Artemis Moon asked softly with a warm smile upon his face. It took a moment before The Crafter finally broke the silence.
"Very well, then I shall create object that shall contain ALL of our power, leaving only a small fraction of it for us to call upon...and then once we pass on when the time comes...thus our souls will be sealed within them as well...awaiting the day when they shall awaken again..." Antiginous Runes agreed and summoned three crystal tablets in front of them. Placing their hands upon each of them, the gods sealed their power into the tablets, thus they shed their deity forms so they could live among those they created as such.
(You See...Death Was Originally Among The Great Mage And The Others...However...No One Quite Knows Where They Came From Or How They Came To Be...But, Death Was The Only One Among Them That Was Unable To Create...And So He Became Extremly Jealous Of The Others...So He Cast A Curse On ALL The God's Creations...And The Curse Contained...Sickness...Accidents...Murder...And Of Course Old Age...And It All Began With A Miasma In Zaloz...) Michiko added.
(...Death Took Life After Life...The Gods Couldn't Bare With The Loss...And So...They Became Mortal And Sealed Their Divinity Inside Of Those Tablets You Saw...Also Known As The God's Legacies...They Were Then Placed In The Tower Of Twilight And Guarded...But Death Attempted To Steal And Destroy Them...As A result...The Majority Of His Power Was Also Sealed...) the Witch concluded as Roxy only sat there in a state of almost shock.
"...You mean...they did all of that...just to protect us...? H-Hold on a minute...if they REALLY did do that then why is there STILL death!? That totally doesn't make any sense!" the faerie of animals nearly cried out. This was so hard to wrap her head around. (Why? Because, The Task Has Yet To Be Finished My Dear...The Rest...You'll Have To Figure Out For Yourself...) The Witch lightly teased Roxy. "Fine! I was planning to anyways!" the pink haired girl blurted out as she turned her mind back to the arrangement of the tea leaves.
"Ok! I can handle this! So from what I just saw...the moon is obviously Artemis Moon...the hammer is the Crafter guy...the Phoenix...of course is The Phoenix...and the skull is Death...that just leaves...the Sun...ok now i'm even MORE confused...UGH!" Roxy groaned. But Michiko only let out a soft giggle. (The Answer May Surprise You...But The Moon Is Never By Itself...As The Moon Is Connected To It...) the Witch answered. The faerie only raised a brow.
"Uh wait a second...then the Sun is also Artemis Moon? Errr that doesn't sound right to me..." the faerie of animals admitted. (In Some Ways...To Put It Simply...Besides The Court Of Twilight...There Exists Another Group That Tis Sworn To Protect What They Refer To As The Great Mage's Legacy...) "...So the tablet then..." Roxy guessed. But Michiko only shook her head.
(No...I'm Not Talking About The Tablet...No...These Individuals Carry The Emblem Of The Sun...Now As To What That Legacy Is...Only Those Among The Order Know Of Its True Form...A Power That Is Said To Be Beyond White Or Black Magic...) the Witch mused before it finally hit her. "OH NO! THAT'S WHAT THE A.O.J IS AFTER!" Roxy screamed. Though she said that, there was another question that needed answering.
"But...how exactly do the tablets play a role in all of this? You're not just showing me these visions for your own amusement are you?" the faerie inquired before Michiko curled her lips into a pleased smile. (Very Good...You Catch On Quickly...Yes...Without A Doubt That Is Indeed Correct...As I Am Certain You're Well Aware That The Angels Of Justice Have Only One Single Goal In Which They Are Working Towards...) the Witch continued before Roxy nodded firmly.
"Yes, they seek to destroy ALL magic in the Universe..." (Correct Again...But...Not Just Only Magic...The Ones Whom From Magic Was Created...As A Gift To Their Creations...Now...Based On That Additional Information...What Would You Conclude As Their Ultimate Objective Roxy...?...) Michiko asked simply. Roxy only twisted her mouth as she considered what she had been told.
"Well, it sounds like to me...that the A.O.J want to find the tablets so they can destroy them...but I can't imagine that being very easy...unless..." the faerie paused as she let out a sharpened gasp. "...No...NO IT CAN'T BE! THEY WANT THE BLACK POWER SO THEY DESTROY THE TABLETS! That's why they kidnapped Bright! Isn't It!? Isn't IT!? Oh this is BAD very BAD! Michiko! Please tell me how to stop them! We can stop them right!?" Roxy cried out as she felt her heart thundering in her chest.
(You Must Collect ALL Of The Gems Of Destiny...In Order To Seal Away The Black Power...Utterly And Completely...Only Then Can It Be Rendered Useless...Secondly...You Must Also Find The Crystal Tablets That Belong to The Phoenix, The Great Mage, The Crafter and Finally Death...Once You Do So...You'll Be Able To Breathe Life Into Them And Restore The Gods To Their Original Forms...)
(Neither Shall Prove An Easy Task...Mind You...The Phoenix...Will Need You To Be Her Eyes...You And Bloom...Are Tied By The Red Thread Of Fate...Tis Not By Chance You Were Born A Faerie...And Raised In The Same City...Gardenia Was It?...For From This Day On...You Will See...What She Alone Cannot...As for Raeger...Well...You'll Find Out Soon Enough...The Secret He Cannot Tell...)
Michiko concluded before they were taken back to the present. Roxy just sat there as she tried to take everything in. It was only by Muna's voice that she was pulled back to reality. "Oh Thank goodness! I feared somehow the A.O.J leader had gotten to you as well! You both just suddenly stopped moving..." the guardian murmured. "No Such Thing, I Twas Merely Taking Roxy Here On A Little...Trip Of Sorts..." the Witch quickly squelched her fears.
The faerie of animals opened her mouth to speak before she let out a gasp. She didn't know how exactly, but she could feel someone trying to reach out to her, flashes of Bright tied up in briar thorned vines. His cries of agony. This unbelievable pain that threatened to crush her heart. Immediately, Roxy stood up from the couch. "Guys! There's No Time To Lose! We've got to get to Bright NOW! I-I don't know how exactly...but I can see him...he's in big time trouble..." the faerie exclaimed worriedly.
"No, Not Just Yet..." Michiko interrupted. "There Was Something That I Forgot To Mention...As You Know...Where There Is Light, There Is Also Darkness...The Same Can Be Said For Good And Evil...The A.O.J Leader Unknownst To Him...Has Tapped Into A Dangerous source Of Power...One That He Himself Is Ensnared In...Therefore...It Would Be Wise Not To Underestimate The Chains That Bind People By Time..." the Witch warned.
"Then...how do you beat time? I remember Oritel saying that time magic couldn't be used a lot...so...then..." Roxy began before Michiko spoke up. "Muna...Please Give Roxy The Sacred Item In Your Possession If You would." the Witch requested. "...As you wish Madame Michiko..."
Muna conceded as she removed from her neck a tiny hour glass that gradually grew bigger until it could be held within her hand. The hourglass in it contained no sand but inside it was flowing water. And as it was place in the faerie's palm, an unexpected reaction occurred. Roxy didn't know how exactly, but she could feel something resonating within her very soul as her purple eyes glowed along with the rest of her body.
"Her reaction! It's so strong!" Muna cried out as Roxy felt images flood her mind. Yet again she could see Bright, but much clearer now. He was putting up a nasty fight against The A.O.J leader's spell. The faerie could see and feel the blood red aura. (You Can Feel It Now Can't You...? The AOJ Leader's Aura? Then...Tis Time For You To Go...) Michiko urged as both Muna and Roxy both stood up. "Right! Oh and...um...Madame Michiko...Thank You For Everything!"
Roxy exclaimed and bowed deeply before she took off running leaving only Muna to follow her trail from behind. The Witch waved them off softly before a young man emerged from the room next to them with teal eyes and golden hair. "I Need You, To Run A Little Errand For Me... Danny..." were Michiko's final words.
Meanwhile Back In Ragnarok City...
"Damn it, this is impossible!" Marik muttered as he cursed under his breath. It had been at least an hour that he had been running around this miserable excuse for a city looking for that red hour glass mark. However since the city was so huge that was no small task. In fact, Layla and him had split up in order to cover more ground. This was one of the only times he could be useful and even that was slowly slipping through his fingers. The tomb keeper slammed his fist against the wall nearest to him before he saw Layla in the distance flying towards him.
"MARIK!" the darkly skinned faerie called out to him. "Layla?!" Marik questioned before he noticed that he had hit the side of that building a bit too hard and hid his bloodied fist as she landed next to him. Layla took a moment to catch her breath. "Did You Find Something?" the Tomb keeper inquired. "Y-Yeah...a building...I thought if we climbed it, we could see the whole city from up there, so what are you waiting for come on!"
Layla urged but before Marik could ask how exactly, the faerie of water answered by pulling him up and off the ground and soaring into the air as she giggled. All the tomb keeper could do was hold on for dear life and hope she didn't accidently drop him on the way there. Gently, Layla placed Marik down and landed beside him upon the large clock tower as a soft breeze blew against them. Taking another look, the tomb keeper saw she was right, you could practically see the whole city from there. As Marik peered downwards, the faerie remained quiet as her mind wandered slightly.
"...I hope Roxy and the others are ok...we've all never been split up like this before...especially Roxy...she's so inexperienced compared to the rest of us...with all we've been through...she has to be pretty scared...wouldn't you think...or maybe I'm just worrying a bit too much...I don't know..."
Layla let out a soft sigh before Marik turned his gaze back towards her. He couldn't help but feel a bit awkward in this situation. Just, what exactly was he supposed to say to her? Don't worry? Everything Will Be Fine? As If. Maybe if he were Little Yugi Or Joey. He wasn't built for comfort. Still, he had to say SOMETHING! But what? Unfortunately, he didn't have any time for that as he sensed a dark presence as a shadowed figure approached Layla from behind.
"LAYLA WATCH OUT!"Marik screamed out just as she got ready to turn her head. Immediately, the Tomb Keeper pushed the faerie down protectively as he was met with a pair of cold at his throat. "MARIK!" Layla cried out in horror. "STAY DOWN!" Marik struggled as a young male emerged from the shadows. "Aw man...it's just some skinny guy and a faerie...he doesn't even look that strong...what a let down..." the figure breathed. Now, that the tomb keeper looked, Marik observed that he had pure white hair along with red eyes adorned in black armor as he tried to pry his hands off his neck.
"Who are you!? And what do you want!? ANSWER ME!" Layla spat as she rose to her feet. She was trembling with anger but at the same time fear. Bloode only turned his eyes towards the faerie rather boredly. "Who...Me? Nah You Don't Have To Concern Yourself With Any Of That...? But Uh...Unfortunately...You're In My Bosses Way So...I Gotta Get Rid Of You...Don't Take It Personally...I'll Make It Quick..." Bloode mused before Layla gathered power in her two fists.
"NO! I'm not...GOING TO ALLOW THAT TO HAPPEN! NOT AGAIN! NOT EVER AGAIN!" the faerie of waves screamed as a fire burned in her eyes and using all of her power she summoned a geyser of boiling hot water and unleashed it right in the spot where Bloode was standing. The eruption completely caught him off guard as he immediately released Marik as he howled in pain. Immediately, Layla grabbed the tomb keeper and fled from the battle. Even so, she couldn't stop the tears falling down her face. What scared her even more however, was the laughter that rang throughout the air.
A twisted smile replaced Bloode's pained howls. "Ah yes...Enjoyable...very enjoyable...the burning flesh...the blood...Now She...May Prove...A Fun Toy To Play With..." he admitted as he licked his lips. However, it wasn't long before a voice echoed in his water logged ear. "HEY! YOU THERE! NOT ANOTHER STEP!" Danny warned before he let out a gasp as he was met with a storm of red smoke.
"Aw, Sorry...but I'm afraid I'm not going to be able to stick around for the fireworks when they go BOOM! But uh...best of luck...HEHEHEHE!" Bloode cackled as he dissapeared. "Damn it..." Danny growled as he grinded his teeth slightly. He was just as slippery as ever. He retreated for now but he'd probably be back. Either way, he needed to do what he came here to do. Removing a Kunai from within his sleeve, Danny imbued it with a greenish blue aura before he threw the weapon into the area where the blood seal was located.
Layla just barely caught the glow in the corner of her eye as Layla found an area to land. Marik coughed as he gasped for air. His face was almost as pale as a ghost. That man wasn't just choking him, he had been stealing his life force from him. Immediately, the faerie turned her tear soaked eyes towards Marik as he attempted to regain himself. "Are...Are You Alright Marik...? Speak to me!"
Layla cried not able to contain her emotions. He was about to answer however, when he looked into her eyes, he was left almost speechless. There was nothing he could say, all he could do was wrap his arms around her. Afterwards, the faerie too held the tomb keeper in a tight embrace. "Thanks To You." Marik finally managed to utter before she looked up at him.
"Had You Not Been There...I'd Have Been Done For Layla...I Don't Know What Kind Of Magic He Was Using...But Whatever It Was...It Was Able To Steal The Life Force Right From Me...Still...I'm Glad...That It Was Me And Not You...That's All I DO Know..." the tomb keeper confessed as his face slightly reddened. "...I was afraid..." the faerie answered. "I was so afraid...afraid that...that I was going to almost lose you again..." Layla sobbed. "Last time...Amourette was able to save you...I can't go through that again...I...I just can't...I don't want to lose the person I love EVER again..." the faerie choked out. Marik was almost taken back by the words coming from her mouth.
(...Layla...She...She Loves Me...?...) the tomb keeper thought to himself as Layla lifted her up and looked towards him with her tear stained face. For some reason, Marik couldn't bring himself to look away as he began to lean in towards her as if his body was moving completely on its own. But sadly, the moment wasn't meant to be as Layla turned her head towards a blinding bright light in the distance.
"Marik Look!" Layla cried out as the tomb keeper nearly face faulted. It took him a second look to realize that she was correct. "Is that...?" Marik questioned. "Come On, Let's Check It Out!" the faerie urged and took the tomb keeper with her as she teleported towards where the light was shining from. Both of them reappeared next to a large red magic circle with an hour glass. But that wasn't all, there was a kunai lodged within it. "Was this what you were seeing?" Marik questioned. "Yeah, I think so...this could be the link that Oritel was mentioning earlier." the faerie responded before suddenly the blood red circle began to glow. As it did, chains of blood crystal rose up from it an unexpectedly latched onto Layla's arm.
"LAYLA!" Marik cried out as the faerie of water cried out in pain as she felt the heat of the chains burn down to her bones. Immediately, the tomb keeper grabbed a hold of the chains that bound her and faught through the pain as he tried to free her. He could already feel the flesh from his hands bleeding as they were singed. "M-Marik! Stop! You HAVE to stop!" Layla pleaded but Marik only shook his head as he tried even harder to break the chains. "N-NO! I-I'm not...Going...to leave...you...Layla...Not at the mercy...of this...damned thing..." the tomb keeper hissed as it started to drag her under it.
"PLEASE! I'm Begging You! I-I'll Find A Way Out On My Own! Now Let me go! At this rate, You'll be pulled in too!" the dark skinned faerie pleaded. "I SAID NO LAYLA! If I'm dragged under...then so be it..." Marik muttered before they both were violently shocked with blood red sparks of light. Each of them screamed in agony before they lost consciousness and just as the faerie feared they both were taken under. Trapped within the circle's depths. "WAIT!" Danny's voice cried in the distance, but he found he was too late as he punched the ground with his fist.
"Damn it!..." the blonde curled as he attempted to pick up their scent. "Nothing...they were probably pulled into Bright's time stream...if that's the case...then it proves that this is the A.O.J's connection to it...and we need to weaken it...otherwise...who knows what could happen...failing the test would probably be the least of their problems..." he muttered. "For now I should report back to Madame Michiko...I only hope Layla and Marik will be ok until we figure out how..." Danny concluded and quickly took off however, he left his kunai to remain within the seal.
Meanwhile In The Blood Crystal Cavern...
Just as Roxy had been shown, Prince Bright was ensnared by thorns of briar and blood crystal that were wrapped around his body binding Bright's arms, legs, torso and his neck tightly as The A.O.J leader stood in front of him. Bright had just barely regained his consciousness but yet he could still feel the effects of the poison he had been. The prince could barely move his head as he struggled to look at his captor. The A.O.J leader however, only removed a dagger from its sheathe and raised it towards Bright's cheek.
There was nothing Bright could do as he struggled against the vines and blood crystal holding him. It was only then he suddenly felt his chin grabbed firmly by ice cold hands met with a colder voice. "It's Futile...Or Didn't You Hear Me Tell You Before...?" the A.O.J leader mused before he took the dagger and just barely grazed The Prince's face. "Yes...I Believe This Shall Suffice..." the leader mused and took the blood off the tip of the blade and as had been done with Yugi, he drew an hour glass seal upon Bright's forehead.
"...I...don't know...what it is your planning...but...I...won't allow you...to use me like this..." The Prince gritted his teeth but unfortunately, The A.O.J wouldn't be beaten so easily as he tossed the dagger aside and held his hand up towards Bright. In doing so, he intertwined his blood red aura with Bright's that lit up a bright gold. "Now...Let's See If Your Mind...Is As Resistant As That Body Of Yours..." the leader muttered as he reached into The Prince's mind and the depths of his soul. Bright could only scream in agony as a battle for her spirit began. The Prince thrashed back and forth as he struggled against the A.O.J leader's power. "Try As You Might...I WILL BREAK YOU!" he swore.
"...N-No...Even In Such...Poor Condition...I Refuse...To...BOW TO ONE SUCH AS YOU! I WILL NOT BEND TO YOUR WILL!" Bright cried out as he faught even more against the chains that threatened to bind his soul. It was only then, that a powerful blast of energy that was shaped like a wolf lunged itself straight towards The A.O.J whom immediately absorbed right before it struck him. As the leader turned to see whom would dare to oppose him, he saw met by a pair of smoldering eyes of lavender.
As Roxy stared upon Bright's attacker, the faerie couldn't seem to quell this incontrollable rage building inside. It was only now that she was finally able to understand how The Earth Faerie's felt when they encountered The Wizard's Of The Black Circle after all that they had put them through. This was the man who was responsible for EVERYTHING! Taking over BriarBlood and causing Derrith and Weldon to attack and target them! Badly wounding Raeger's adopted Uncle Arthur, Manipulating the people of Aura into a war, Killing innocent people in the Dawnshire Massacre, Framing both Xuri and Blaire, Badly wounding Bloom and eliminated The Wizards with his own two hands. That didn't even begin to cover the rest of what Michiko had revealed to her.
"Aren't You Going To Say Something? You Certainly Look Like You Want To...Roxy Is It? Princess Of Tir Nan Og Of Earth..." The A.O.J leader taunted the faerie as she paused for a moment. "I Can Feel Your Anger...You're Just Itching To Wrap Your Hands Around My Throat...You're Thinking About Spilling My Blood Right Here...Right Now...To Put An End To All Of It...And That Anger...That Hatred...Only Bestows Me With More Power...Yours...Is Not NEARLY Strong Enough...Nor Is His...For That Matter..."
The leader mused as Roxy shook, for some reason she couldn't move and her power seemed to be leaving her. The faerie needed to think of something and fast before who knows what would happen. Roxy was starting to wish she hadn't left Muna behind. A cold chill ran down her spine as a large hand emerged from behind the faerie that was covered with blood and ash. "R-Roxy!" Bright cried with a sharp painful gasp. There was nothing he could do. It was only then, the moon pendant around her neck began to glow brightly along with The Prince a brilliant golden light.
Right before the faerie could be struck by the hand of fate, Roxy found herself wrapped in rainbow flames that resembled wings that shielded her from harm. As such, slowly little by little the faerie's body began to dissapear from sight. The A.O.J leader appeared just as confused as she, however before she could fade away, she read the words on the leader's lips. "Artemis Moon." It was all beginning to make sense to the A.O.J now. Bright only hoped that Roxy was ok.
After losing consciousness, Roxy found herself wrapped in a warmth that seemed familiar and yet unfamiliar. It was soothing and peaceful. The darkness that nearly froze the faerie's heart gradually began to melt. As she heard a melody almost like the song of a bird, Roxy slowly stirred from her state of sleep only to find that she was resting bathed in rainbow flames attached to a pair of wings that were colored with gold in between. The wings were slowly cradling her in a warm and protective embrace. It was only then that the faerie was resting on a Phoenix, drifting through a sea of stars among rainbow clouds.
"A Phoenix...?" Roxy questioned before she paused she suddenly remembered that she had been attacked by The A.O.J leader, but right as she was about to be hit, a pair of wings wrapped around her and saved her. Carefully, Roxy eased herself upwards until she found a pair eyes eyes covered in feather and flames turn towards the faerie. "It was you...you protected me didn't you? Thank You..." Roxy smiled and gently caressed the face of The Phoenix's spirit. But as she did so, the spirit gradually absorbed into her body until the faerie of animals took upon its form.
Wrapped in a cloak of rainbow fire, Roxy soon found that she had somehow bonded with The Phoenix's spirit and became its true form. It was almost as if she was looking through another's eyes as power surged within her. Such a thing was beyond even her comprehension. Perhaps, it was using her as a vessel, just as Nebula had with The White Circle. Even so, the faerie allowed The Phoenix's spirit to guide her.
(Wait...When I Gained Celestix...Maybe I Also Gained The Power To Bond With The God's Spirits Since They Take On The Forms Of Animals...Well Two Anyways...That Is So Cool...Still...Rather Than Take Me Somewhere Else...I'd Have Chosen To BURN That Jerk's Ass! If I Could've Hit That Smug Face Of His With One Good Fireball! I'm SOOOO Frustrated Right Now...Why Is This Happening Anyways!? I Wish Bloom Were Here...She'd Know What To Do...)
Roxy groaned before her eyes widened as two streams of aura caught her eye. The Phoenix's Spirit, immediately followed after them as it took the faerie along for the side. Yet, for some reason, Roxy felt that the aura was almost familiar. Well, there was only one way to find out! The Phoenix dove downwards chasing after trail of aura that led to an ocean of crimson water as everything around them began to grow darker. Upon the red ocean was the seal of an hourglass traced on the surface and without any hesitation, The Spirit plunged into the blood tainted waters with Roxy safely shielded by the burning rainbow flames. However, they were most certainly not alone as both Layla and Marik faught for their lives amongst the false sea.
As Layla had predicted, awaiting them when they were pulled into the blood seal, was anything but pleasant. The chains of the underworld and cast them into an ocean of mana that had been tainted by blood magic. As the mana clashed against the blood magic, it created painful volts that shocked and inflicted burns upon anyone that was caught in the crossfire with terrible burns that seared the skin. It was even more punishing for those that contained any mana or magic within.
"NGH!" Layla let out a pained cry as she attempted to move. But every time she attempted to so much as attempt to swim closer to Marik whom was just out of her reach, she felt herself being drained and burned beyond any pain she had experienced before. "Ack! Ugh...I-I never imagined...it would be...this difficult...to just swim through...the water...it's as if...the mana itself...is writhing in agony...from being tainted by blood...and in turn...its attacking anyone...who comes in contact with it...I can feel its pain..."
The faerie shuddered. While Layla was focused on her battle with the mana that surrounded her, Marik had entered the waters as well not far behind her. As he took let out a hiss of pain as he came in contact with the tainted waters. "TCH!" the tomb keeper cried out as he felt the burns that were inflicted upon each part of his body. "...W-What...What Is This...?!" the tomb keeper questioned as he faught hard against the current as Layla finally came into his sight. Despite almost every movement was agonizing, he endured the pain until he was just within an arms reach of the faerie.
"MARIK!" Layla cried out as soon as she spotted him. "L-Layla! Hold...On...I'm Coming..." the tomb keeper yelled back as he faught against the violent current of blood tainted mana. It was only then, that he noticed something that was taking over part of the false water. Rainbow flames that began to emerge seemingly out of nowhere. Even stranger, they appeared to be taking upon the shape of a very large bird. Layla paused as she noticed that the tomb keeper's gaze had drifted towards a small sea of rainbow fire. Not only that but, he was steadily being drawn closer to it, almost as if he were in some kind of trance.
"M-MARIK! W-WAIT! J-Just What In Magicks Name D-Do You Think You're Doing!? U-Ugh! I-It Could Be D-Dangerous! C-Come Back H-Here!" Layla cried out though her voice didn't seem to reach. The faerie struggled to attempt to catch up with the tomb keeper however, something felt wrong as Layla felt her legs and arms both go numb as the aura points in which her magic flowed through began to seal themselves closed. No doubt this was her body's way of preventing further damage that it had already had been inflicted with.
(...Oh no...I...I Can't Move...) Layla cried within before slowly, the faerie began to sink into the blood tainted waters. She couldn't even muster the strength to call out to Marik as he appeared to move further and further away towards the rainbow flames igniting the mana. "Just...a bit...more...yes...as I predicted...the volts of the tainted mana isn't...as strong here...don't you think so Layla...?" the tomb keeper questioned before he paused as he was answered only by silence.
"Layla?" Marik called yet again before he slowly turned to look behind him. Suddenly, the tomb keeper let out a horrified gasp as he noticed that not only the faerie had drifted much farther than he had, but that Layla had begun to sink into the mana. "LAYLA!" Marik nearly screamed and frantically attempted to swim with a quickened pace against the blood tainted mana that send strong volts of electricity through his body. It was only now that he had realized that because Layla was a magical being with mana flowing through her, that the effects of the mana turned was effecting her FAR worse than he. The tomb keeper cursed over and over again under his breath.
"Damn It...Damn It...Damn it...Why Didn't I Realize Before!?" Marik hissed. (...Layla...She ALWAYS thinks of me...But even if I think of her silently to myself...those thoughts are meaningless...unless she hears them...but sometimes...the right words fail to come together...that's why...things as expression exist...to give form to what we ourselves can't speak...please forgive me...)
The tomb keeper pleaded from within before he dove under the water and endured the pain that came with it. Layla could just barely see Marik through her blurred vision before he grabbed a hold on her tightly and swam up with the faerie to the surface. Afterwards, the tomb keeper wasted no time in heading towards the false waters that were covered in a path of rainbow flames. Once they fully entered the rainbow fire, the wounds inflicted upon both Layla and Marik began to heal and slowly restore their lost mana. It was then that the two weary travelers saw a Phoenix.
Marik feared his vision was failing him as he felt himself along with Layla slowly moving forwards. His feet were lifted up off the ground and yet they were below the surface of the mana that was filled with the multicolored flames. The tomb keeper's body refused to respond to him. Neither one of them had the strength to remain conscious to witness as The Phoenix's spirit held their bodies in its grasp. Approaching an ominous seal that resembled an hour glass, Layla and Marik were carried inside of it with Roxy along for the ride just above them, cloaked in the rainbow flames that took the Phoenix's mighty form.
As Layla soon found herself within a state of sleep, a familiar voice began to call out her name. (...Layla...) However, she ignored the voice. (Layla...What's The Matter? Are You Tired Of Me Already? My Love) the voice persisted before the faerie groaned and pried open her eyes. However instead of Marik, Layla was greeted by a phantom of her past that caused her to startle. "N-Nabu! I-Is that you!?" the faerie questioned as The Wizard Of Andros turned around. "Come! Follow Me!" Nabu urged before he began to sprint just ahead of her.
"N-NABU! WAIT!" Layla cried out as she chased after his shadow only for her past fiancé to slip through her grasp. The faerie was in a daze as Layla found herself walking on the blood tainted ocean of mana as a trail of rainbow flames created a path further ahead of them. The faerie's body felt weighed down like led began to slow her pace as Layla struggled to catch up with Nabu. But, something wasn't right as she noticed Nabu fade in and out. He was flickering back and forth between both Nabu and Marik. Like a mirror that was reflecting the two people she held most dear in her heart.
"...Marik...?" Layla questioned as she was taken back by his sudden appearance and continued yet to chase after him as well. Yet, even the tomb keeper kept slipping further and further away. Until he abruptly ceased his movement. Slowly, Marik turned towards the faerie and took Nabu's form once more. Little by little, The Wizard began to dissolve into rainbow flames that created a magic seal below Layla that reflected both the Sun and Moon. Steadily, the faerie herself was drawn completely into the magic circle. But it wasn't just Layla as Marik had been absorbed as well by the mysterious seal forged in rainbow fire.
"LAYLA! MARIK!" Roxy cried as she witnessed the Phoenix's spirit draw both of them into a special door that had somehow come to manifest itself in the Astral Plane. Only the faerie of animals was left behind. However, that didn't mean she was alone as an orb of light slowly emerged from Roxy's chest and took upon The Nymph Daphne's form.
(This Is The Celestial Door Linked To The Spiritual Realm That Exists Between The Beyond And The Neitherworld...It Is Sealed On Both Sides To Prevent Entry...However...This Area Is Special...Hidden With A Secret...A Labyrinth Of Dreams...It Contains All Of The Dreams Of Those Who Weave And Dream Them...) Daphne began as Roxy listened.
(It Is A Place Where The Heart, Mind And Spirit Meet On A Plane Just One Step Away From Death...A Dangerous Place To Venture Into Without Guidance And One To Keep Watch Over Your Body As You Cross Over...This Is So, No One Can Claim It As Their Own Vessel...Leaving You To Exist Only As A Spirit...For Many Lost Souls Wander Through Its Many Corridors...Occasionally...There Are Those Known As The Called...Whom Are Summoned To Take The Trials Within...It Would Seem That The Celestial Door Chose Itself To Appear To Both Marik And Layla...Therefore, The Guardians Shall Watch Over Each Of Them And Guide Them...You Need Not Worry Roxy...)The Nymph assured the faerie of animals to ease her current fears.
"...So that's why we were brought here...but...what does this have to do with obtaining the Flame Of Eternity to open The Draconia Archive? And why have it happen in the past...more specifically...Bright's Past... More importantly, why did The Phoenix's Spirit use me as its vessel? Who are you anyways? And why are you helping me us?" the faerie asked as a million questions came to mind. Perhaps even more.
(I Apologize...I Just Recalled Myself That We Have Not Yet Met...I Am Daphne...Bloom's Sister...It Was I That Was The Previous Phoenix...But Due To My Death Some Time Ago...I Have Become But Only A Spirit...Thus I Required Help To Guide You...It Was Me That Had You Act As My Vessel...Please Forgive Me Roxy...You Must Have Been Startled...I Wish That I Could Have Spoken To You Before Now...But There Was No Time To Do So...I Hope That I Have Not Upset Or Hurt You...I Had No Intention Of Doing So...)Daphne explained in a softened tone before Roxy cracked a small smile.
"You're Daphne?" the faerie questioned pleasantly surprised. "It's SO nice to finally meet you! Me and Bloom are very close friends, she always talks about you so I had always wanted to meet you myself." Roxy exclaimed as her eyes lit up with excitement. Daphne felt the tension in her heart ease as she listened to the faerie of animals kind words.
(I've Been Hoping To Meet You As Well, As You Are Perhaps The Only One That Can Help Me Roxy...Even Bloom Can't Serve As My Hands And Feet In This Form I Have Now Taken...The Only Thing That Keeps My Spirit Here In This Place Is The Power Of The Gem Of Destiny In My possession...The Only Reason I Can Exist While The Phoenix's Ashes Dwell In My Little Sister...Tell Me Roxy, Do You Remember When You Gained Celestix...?) The Nymph questioned softly before the faerie of animal nodded softly.
"Yeah, I felt my connection with animals on an entirely new level...it wasn't just their feelings and hearts that I could tap into...it was as if I myself could absorb the creatures power and take upon its form and not just that but their abilities too. The merging of my spirit and theirs...and that's exactly what happened with The Phoenix...it protected me...called out to me for help...and I answered in the only way I thought I could..." Roxy explained to Daphne as she softly nodded.
(It's Just As You Say, However, Those That Have Forms Of Animals Can Use You As A Vessel Because You Can Bond With Creatures Of All Forms...In This Way, You Are A Precious Guide To Bloom And The Others...For You Can Speak On Behalf Of The God's Of The Beyond...An Act If The Time Calls For it...That Is Why You Were Given Lady Muna's Hourglass...And Brought Here...Which Brings Me To Your Question From Before...) Daphne paused for a moment.
(It Is Indeed As You Say...You Still Remain In The Prince's Past...However...There IS A Reason For Doing So, Even If It Appears Unclear...It's The Hour Glass Seal...The Crest Of The Forbidden One Which The Angels Of Justice Leader Has Used To Transend Bright's Time Stream...I Am Sure You're Well Aware That The Seal Forms A Link Between The Past And The Present...However...Breaking The Connection Is No Easy Task...Even For One Such As Myself Or Even Artemis Moon For That Matter...For Its Roots Run Deep In Blood Magic...) The Nymph continued.
(...Therefore...The Only Way To Destroy The Seal And Its Ties To Bright's Time Stream Is A Special Power, Granted To Very Few...And It Lies Within The Labyrinth That Dwells Behind The Celestial Door In Front Of Us...One That Exists With The Combined Powers Of The Sun And The Moon...For Until The Hour Glass Seal Is Shattered...Prince Bright Will Remain In Grave Danger...Along With Everyone In His Past...And Until Bright Is Freed...He Cannot Continue His Trial...So You Now Understand...There Was Little Time For Me To Act...I Had No Choice...Not If I Wanted To Protect Him...And The Others...Forgive Me For My Selfishness Roxy...There Was No One Else I Could Turn To...) Daphne lamented but the faerie of animals only smiled back at her.
"Oh no, Please don't apologize Daphne, this isn't like the time with the white circle when Nebula used it to control me against my will. I helped you because I wanted to! Besides...it's not like you meant any harm by it...I mean...If you're willing to go all through this just for Bright's sake...you must REALLY care about him...I think that kind of love outweighs everything else you know?" Roxy tilted her head with a sweetened yet understanding smile on her face. Daphne paused before she smiled in return.
"Yes...he is more precious than any treasure to me...a far greater gift than I could ever possibly ask for...so please...I ask of you a favor Roxy...as a guardian of light...protect him...when I am no longer able to..." The Nymph almost whispered before the faerie's lavender eyes widened as she noticed her body was slowly beginning to dissapear. Their connection was beginning to weaken although Roxy herself was unsure as to why.
Unfortunately, the faerie received no answer to the question that lingered on her tongue. Gradually, The Phoenix's spirit left Roxy's body and the faerie felt herself growing weaker. Daphne unable to bind Roxy any further to her place of dwelling, released the faerie but it came with a heavy cost as Roxy manifested back into the depths of the Blood crystal caverns. Her body however paid the majority of the price as she collapsed from exhaustion.
Roxy's vision faded in an out before all she could do was watch herself approach closer and closer to the ground. The miasma that entered her body had been severely diluted by the rainbow flames however, there was nothing to prevent its attack this time. Just before everything went dark, the faerie could swore that heard someone calling out to her. It was then that several hours passed before Roxy felt something cold pressed against her skin and let out a soft groan. The faerie didn't know what happened but one thing was certain, she felt awful.
A strange sound echoed in her ears as she faught the rising temperature that had taken over her body. Roxy slowly pried open her lavender eyes only to find that it had been Cellos that was creating the noise she had been hearing. The Keeper had been grinding herbs in a mortar before adding powder in a small paper pouch. As his eyes drifted towards her, Cellos jerked back around abruptly upon seeing the faerie awaken and coughed as he accidently inhaled some of the powder.
" *Cough* *Cough* Y-You're Awake! H-How A-Are *Cough* You Feeling!?" Cellos immediately questioned. Roxy only groaned in response as the only relief seemed to the cook wash cloth against her face. "...I feel...hot...and kind of...dizzy...I can't move..." the faerie whined pitifully before she watched as The Keeper took the wash cloth from her face and dipped it into a basin of water. Afterwards, Cellos wrung it out and gently wiped the sweat beating down Roxy's feverish face as she shivered.
"Well, that's hardly surprising...when we found you, you had quite the high fever...and the mana in your body has severely been depleted...on top of which has placed your body under great strain let alone, the miasma that you were probably exposed to all at once..."
The Keeper murmured as he folded up the washcloth and gently placed it on Roxy's face. The faerie admitted that she was extremly surprised. Not by what had happened to her, but Cellos's behavior towards her when they didn't even know each other yet, not that, that really made much a difference. He seemed, different somehow, not just his appearance but the way he looked at her with such concern and worry. Even now, he was watching over and taking care of her. Was this really Cellos?
"I'm sorry for inconveniencing you...it's kinda a pain looking after someone you really don't know huh...? Ugh...and...I think I'm going to stop talking now..." Roxy's voice trailed off. Maybe the less she said the better. Though, the cool wash cloth did give her a bit of relief from the fever.
"Oh no, no trouble at all, I only wish we could've found you sooner to have prevented you from becoming so ill...the others should return momentarily...hold on just a bit longer and I'll have this medicine prepared for consumption...uh...oh dear...I didn't seem to catch your name...not that you had time tell me it..." Cellos laughed towards the end.
"It's Roxy..." the faerie struggled to utter. "So, Roxy Is It? How Do You Do, My Name Is Cellos...I Am The Keeper Of The Draconian Library, Although I DO dabble in apocrathy!" he attempted to lighten the mood just a smidge. But in all honesty he was doing his best to hide just how worried he was.
(Nearly Every Aura Point In Her Body Has Been Damaged...On Top Of Which There's Also Poison That Has Entered Through The Organ That Produces Mana...Luckily, Though It's A Small Amount...It's Rather Surprising How She Can Move Or Talk At All...Still...She's Quite The Fighter...That's For Certain...) Cellos thought to himself as he placed his hand over Roxy. His hand gave off a gentle white glow that allowed him to heal the damage that had been inflicted upon her unintentionally.
The faerie let out a pained groan as she shivered some more. "My apologies for not noticing before..." Cellos murmured before he removed his mage's mantle and gently yet snuggly wrapped her in the warmth it had retained. Bringing a sense of calm to Roxy's heart, the faerie of animals buried herself within it. It was only then she felt her leg being warmly rubbed in a soothing manner. It lasted but only a moment before The Keeper had to turn his attention towards a bubbling cauldron.
Using a glass stick, Cellos stirred the liquid within the cauldron softly. In between stirs, The Keeper stole glances in Roxy's direction as his nose picked up a familiar yet different scent that caused to him pause in the midst of stirring. As a result, Cellos began to stir the mixture slightly faster. The Keeper's face hardened.
(So...It Would Seem That It Isn't Just My Imagination...I Can Smell Them...The Red Skeletons From Before...They're Steadily Moving Closer To This Particular Location...They've Done Well To Conceal Themselves Thus Far...I Should've Noticed Their Presence Much Sooner...) Cellos remarked to himself as he tapped the stirring stick on the edge of the cauldron. Afterwards, the Keeper poured the liquid in a heat resistant glass elixir bottle. For but a moment, Cellos swirled the mixture around.
(Hrmmm...Yes...I Believe This Should Be Just About Right...But Perhaps I Ought To Wait Until The Potion Has Cooled Down Before I Administer It...Yes...In Fact I'd Say The Bigger Dilemma Would Be...How To Give It To Her...) Cellos confessed as he twisted his mouth. It would be rather difficult to get her up in order to swallow it. Luckily, Both Azrael and Xuri had finally returned. "Well! Look Who's Finally Returned! Did You Have Any Luck Locating The Enemy Or Finding Any Of The Missing Mage's and Knights?" The Keeper inquired.
"Unfortunately not..." Azrael murmured. "We went back and examined the previous areas awhile ago, however...there wasn't so much as one skeleton that remained...it was also eerily quiet...I fear that they may return with a vengence...as such it wouldn't be wise to linger here for too long...but...perhaps I may be worrying unnecessarily...How Is The Young Woman Doing? Has Her Condition Improved?" The Guild Master questioned concerned. Xuri only remained silent as he drew his sword in its sheathe.
"I see...Well, as for The Young Miss over there, apparently her name is Roxy." Cellos began. "And to answer your next question, yes she is slightly recovering although it is gradual mind you, I was just about to give her some medication I made while you were seeing to everything else...however...doing so by myself would have been rather difficult...Could I ask for some assistance, that is if its alright with you?" the Keeper mused. "Yes alright." Azrael murmured as he walked over and took a seat next to the faerie. Roxy felt herself tense up slightly as she saw Azrael approach her.
"W-Who are you...?" the faerie of animals asked cautiously. The Guild Master only offered her a gentle smile. Now that she got a closer look at him. Azrael resembled Yugi a lot! It was almost shocking. But like Cellos the eyes and hair were a bit different. Not to mention the height. Roxy had to giggle a little at the last part.
"My Name Is Azrael Raya...I Am The Guild Master Of The Aurian Knights...I Believe Cellos Called you Roxy, Would You Mind If I Helped You Sit So That You Can Take The Medicine That Cellos Prepared?" Azrael offered the faerie a hand. Roxy only nodded softly as The Guild Master allowed her to grab onto it in order for her to be eased upright. As Azrael held the faerie up, Cellos helped Roxy drink the medicine. Her mouth twisted as she made a face from the putrid flavor. However she forced herself to drink all of it and resisted spitting it back in The Keeper's face for to burned badly going down too. Afterwards, Cellos placed a small lemon jellie in her hand.
"I Find That It Helps Counter Balance, My Dragon's Breath Potion Which Has A Tenancy To Cause Discomfort Whilst Its Contents Work To Remedy The Immense Damage Done Internally And Externally...I Learned It From A Tome That Was...Laying Around...The Secret...Dra-Draconian...Library..." Cellos was barely able to under before he soon collapsed. A gasp escaped Azrael before he winced himself.
"M-My apologies Lady Roxy...we were engaged in battle with crimson blood red skeletons that attacked us...and they ambushed us again before suddenly dissapearing...so we're all fatigued ourselves...we came here to recover...and rest...but...when I saw you about to be attacked by the horde coming from behind...I...No...We Couldn't Just Leave...You..."
The Guild Master huffed exhausted himself. It was then that it hit Roxy, when she traveled to the other side. It was only her spirit. Her body had been left behind. And Cellos, Azrael and Xuri. They had been protecting her the whole time as the faerie watched the wounds Azrael had been hiding began to manifest one after the other as he struggled to remain alert. Roxy couldn't hold back her tears. Both of their spirits were so warm, and so kind. Thinking about her and her wounds more than themselves.
That was the reason they were all so beat up. Even now, Xuri was creating a blood crystal barrier to protect them from any outside forces. Unable to remain awake as the medicine slowly took hold of her, the faerie closed her eyes and fell asleep with both Cellos and Azrael beside her. Each one glowing with the power of the Moon and the Sun. A snow owl watched from a pillar above as a silent guardian. Perhaps, Roxy was the one, that would sever the two strings that manipulated Cellos and Azrael's red thread of fate.