Hello! Thanks for the long wait. The story was pretty out of control for a while.
Early next day, the coliseum was overflowing with people attending the equestrian events. Almost no civilians participated, so it all became rather an exhibit with ceremonial meaning.
The competitors for the chariot race were Aioros, Kanon, Aioria, Milo, Marin, Babel and Asterion. Kanon began to assess them. Milo's chariot was so heavy for him that Kanon was almost ready to bet he'll crash on the turn, might even start last too. Aioria's chariot was too plain looking, like he didn't have the time for aesthetics, but it was a good fit. Still, Kanon wouldn't have chosen those horses, they weren't exactly the type for a race. The Gemini hoped the Leo wouldn't have an accident. Asterion looked just out of a book. He had the proper height and weight, so he fit a standard chariot perfectly. And his horses were also a perfect match. Kanon was certain he would end in the top 5. Babel had equipped himself just the same which wouldn't do because he was too tall and a bit heavy for such an arrangement. Aioros looked like he knew what he was doing. There was nothing off in his stance. He was too tall and too heavy for the sport, so his chariot was fixed to compensate just like Kanon's. But his horses were still not the best on the track. Marin was too short for the task at hand, and perhaps she was too light too, but she fixed her chariot to compensate while keeping a low mass center and good distance to the horses. She would be an issue. Kanon was certain that she would win the race if she managed to make the turn first. Both had the best-looking horses.
So, all the competitors took their places and wore the helmets, masks, gauntlets and boots of their clothes. And the race started. Just as Kanon predicted, the competition was only between him, Aioros and Marin. They quickly left the others behind with Asterion in the lead. The damn turn was going to be key to decide the winner, it was too sharp.
Aioros had to make a wider turn, which put him at an unsalvable disadvantage. Kanon took the turn with perfect skill. Marin went a bit too far then turned sharply, relying on the quick recovery of her horses. Kanon won by a head.
– What a pleasant surprise to find such a worthy opponent, silver saint Eagle Marin. For a moment there I worried I wouldn't make it – said Kanon to Marin.
– You got great skill too, gold saint Gemini Kanon. The way you took the turn was impressive.
– Let's exchange tips some other time, so racing becomes more interesting
– Certainly
Just as Kanon predicted, after Aioros came Asterion, then Aioria, Babel and finally Milo. The last three had real troubles in the turn, Aioria due the horses, Milo due the chariot and Babel due lack of training. Overall they did better than the Gemini expected
– Ready for the horseback race? – said Aioros.
– Anytime.
– Let's go.
Once again, Kanon, Aioros and Babel were at a disadvantage, Camus took Milo's place and Aioria did not compete. But this time there were others as Albiore, Misty, Jabu, June and Erda, along some towns people.
To Kanon, Marin, June and Jabu held the best chances, but he was not going to go down without a show.
The race started. He was the fifth to leave the spot, but he quickly made it to third. Marin and June were quite gifted. He decided to match June and tail Marin, then make a sprint for the goal after the final turn, but someone else from the towns folk reached to them in a blink and attempted to leave them behind.
Kanon forgot about the silver girls and went up against this newcomer he hadn't seen before. The jockey was so familiar… they both ran at a steady pace ahead of everyone else until the final turn, were they both made a sudden sprint. This one time Kanon lost by a nose and Marin arrived just next to him.
– Athena, why didn't you told us you'd participate? – said Kanon riding side by side
– My saints wouldn't have taken the challenge seriously – said the holy girl removing her scarf. In the boyish clothes she picked, nobody recognized her – and this is so thrilling! Besides, it would have been greatly disrespectful to waste all the hours of training you have dedicated me. Thanks, gold saint Gemini Kanon.
– At your service.
All saints were rather shocked that Athena decided to participate.
– I'm looking forward to the next exhibits. Do your best.
– For you.
After the race, there came some equestrian exhibits
The first one to demonstrate was Aioros, horseback archery. It came as no surprise that he hit all the marks flawlessly.
He carried his arrows on a quiver tied to his leg. He rode his horse down the curve of the track. As he reached the straight segment, he let go of the bridle and took out his bow, but the horse speed up. The target was toward the center of the loop at the middle of the straight track and he managed a bull's eye.
The horse slowed down at the curve but speed up at the straight segment. The target was the same and he landed 4 marks.
By the time he started the second loop, more targets had been added and he hit all of them from both sides. Instead of making the third loop, his horse jumped inside the ring and visited all targets without stopping so his rider could recover all of the arrows in one pass. Then the horse turned around and sped right through the middle of the field. Aioros hit 9 targets to both sides of him. At the end the horse stood on its hinder legs and from that height, the archer marked twice the first and furthest target before the horse came down again. Once it did, it took Aioros to recover his arrows again.
Kanon was impressed to find someone who could actually guide a horse without the bridle. Then something else occurred to him. "Saga, what are you doing?", he asked through cosmos.
"I'm at the balcony with Athena's guests, why?"
"Oh, so you are watching Aioros?"
"Yes…" Saga found suspicious his brother's question.
"Ah…" Kanon waited. He smirked as he leaned on the nearby wall.
"Why?"
"Nothing…"
"That's not nothing." Saga was not amused, he knew his brother too well.
"I must admit I'm impressed."
"By Aioros?" Saga found extra suspicious that Kanon admitted such a thing.
"Of course you already knew he could guide horses with his legs alone, right?" Kanon chuckled, but Saga didn't quite get what he meant.
"He always could, as far as I know…"
"I bet you know firsthand the extent of his capabilities, whenever he was top…"
"Kanon, I'm not a horse, you pervert!" Saga turned all possible colors in embarrassment, luckily for him, he was wearing the mask.
Kanon's loud laugh startled other saints that were waiting or working where he was.
As Aioros rode out of the center field and back to the track, Angelo appeared with his huge dog covered in an armor of wood and hay. As Aioros approached, the dog ran away pulling from a white ball at the end of a rope. Angelo gave the archer a different set of arrows, these had tips of paint. As soon as Aioros held them in his bow hand, he put away the others and began chasing the dog, or rather the white ball. Angelo instructed the dog where to run to avoid the archer, and it was rather fast. Aioros pursued it at top speed around the obstacles in the center field, and still landed 10 clean shoots on the ball under a minute.
"Now that is some mad skill considering he is using regular weapons and none of his cosmos" said Kanon to Saga. Saga did not reply.
As Angelo called out the dog, Aioros restarted the loops. Up until then, nobody had paid any attention to the poles in the center field. They had targets on top. So as Aioros' horse ran top speed around the circuitry, the Sagittarius knocked all targets down from the poles.
As the horse came to a halt and he stood up on it, the crowd broke into cheers.
Last in the list was Kanon.
– Everything is ready – Shura startled the golden brothers and the silver saints. He was guiding a beautiful black horse and was carrying the Gemini box. Kanon turned to him and nodded. Aioros thought it was odd they were so solemn suddenly "why do they need the Gemini cloth?".
Kanon tapped the box and the faulds, the gauntlets, the greaves and the sabatons took their places. But the horse approached him and pushed him with its head. Kanon smiled and patted its head. But the horse pushed him back again. The Gemini put his hands behind the horse's ears, and it kicked the ground making low sounds. It wagged its tails and kept making sounds.
– Why is that horse so nervous? – asked Jabu to nobody in particular – Have you ever seen that horse before? – he asked June. She shook his head since she didn't recognize it.
When it pushed Kanon back again, the Gemini held its head still and looked into his eyes. The horse stayed still a moment and Kanon caressed its mane. The horse kinda shook his hand off and neighed. It stood on its hind legs like about to spring forward, but Kanon just touched its chest and mounted it as the hooves were back on the ground.
– Was that a high five? – Aioria chuckled, rather out of nervousness instead of amusement
– Wait until I'm mounting again to let them in – Kanon said to Shura while the Spaniard gave him some ropes.
– Guy's what's going on? – Asked Aioros. "No bridle?" Everything was too suspicious.
But neither replied. As Shura turned to the corridors and Kanon entered the arena, Saga called of Athena's saints through cosmos.
"Everyone, Kanon's exhibit would be a dangerous one because Poseidon's will be involved. Stay alert, but do not interfere with whatever happens in the arena. There is already a team assembled to support him if anything goes wrong. Stay put and mind the people around you. Keep them safe".
"Aioros…" Saga contacted him separately. "Look at the balcony from where you are. Poseidon and two of his mariners are here with Athena and me. Can you cover us from over there?"
"Yes, do I need to? I can find better more discreet positions".
"No. We must honor the truce. If you get to a more advantageous position, they can get on alert. Let's not give them any excuse. I just wanted to be sure I'd have some backup to take Athena out of harm's way if necessary. Shaka and Aphrodite will be here soon".
"Count on me. But what is really going on?"
"Poseidon offered a bull to Athena for the last day sacrifices, on the condition that Kanon brings it down the old way".
"What does that mean?"
"I'm not exactly sure, couldn't get Kanon to tell me but he agreed and now it must be done. I'm not liking this one bit, but we can't exactly refuse since Athena agreed".
"Well, I don't think a simple bull can pose a threat by itself".
"No, it can't. That's why it might not be a simple bull, or might not even be about the bull at all".
"A distraction?"
"It's a possibility. I still want to believe his intentions are pure and this will be an enjoyable show."
"Let's hope it is".
The crowd cheered loudly when they saw Kanon entering the arena.
– He's got fans… – said Angelo while removing the armor from his dog
Horse and rider stopped right at the center of the arena and waited until the crowd got silent. Then the horse suddenly rose on its hinder legs. Most people thought Kanon would be thrown, but no. The horse went down, then up again. When it went up a third time, it went back a couple of steps before going down and kicking the air behind it.
The horse then moved sideways and spun one way, then it moved sideways in the opposite direction and spun the other way. When the horse stopped Kanon patted it.
– How does he do that? – asked Aioros to no one in particular.
To Kanon's command, the horse sprang forward at full speed, jumped the fence to get into the track, ran a loop, and then came to a sudden halt just at the beginning of the straight segment. Then Kanon rose his hand. As the Gemini counted three with a hand gesture, the horse followed kicking forward, then it began a Spanish walk, then a paso fino, then a funny throttle. Then it rose on his hinger legs, turned around on his own axis and began walking backwards as soon as it came down. Then it just hopped out of the tracks again and walked away on a funny swaying motion before staying still. Kanon patted it again.
– All that without the bridle? – said Aioria
– He isn't finished – said Aioros really interested
At that point, Kanon took the rope he was carrying and began spinning it.
– ok, so that's why he needed his hands free… – said Jabu
As he moved the lasso around, the horse followed neatly.
The lasso circled them, then rolled around Kanon arms, and then went around them. When it was low enough, the horse jumped out of it on its own. After doing that two more times, Kanon spun the loop before them and the horse cleanly jumped through it five times. Then, as the rope spun around them the horse spun in the opposite direction two times and hoped out of the loop.
– That is so funny – Kiki was enchanted
The rope never stopped spinning as Kanon stood on the still horse. Then he repeated spinning the loop around his arms, around his waist, and around his feet. Still standing on the horse, he stepped into the loop and then out, then stepped back in, then made the lasso go down almost to the ground before pulling it over his head.
– Well, it certainly looks fun but what's the use of something like that? – said Angelo
Kanon sat down on the horse again, and while still spinning the rope, he made the horse walk backwards again, besides a large cage that some assistants had dragged with horses into the arena. The riders ran away back to safety, while one more assistant climbed onto the cage and pulled the bolt that kept it closed. From inside of it a white bull came charging out
– You ought to be kidding me!
Contrary to what people expected, the horse sprang forward in pursuit.
– No way. Is that horse not afraid of the horns? Its eyes aren't covered!
– Will Kanon rope that bull? It is not a calf!
Kanon quickly lassoed its back legs and tied the rope to the saddle. As the horse stopped, the friction of the rope against the saddle caused smoke.
The horse moved sideways so Kanon could see through the cloud how the bull tripped two times, fell on its butt, stood up, burst the rope, turned around and charged. Horse and rider sprang the opposite way full speed while Kanon prepared the second rope.
– That bull is pursuing them! Bulls don't usually do that… do they? – said Jabu.
– no when they are regular farm bulls. You think that massive beast qualifies? – said Aioria.
As Kanon got the second rope ready, the horse jumped aside and they confronted the bull. As it charged the horse hopped out of its way and Kanon lassoed its head. The beast freaked out, jumping and kicking trying to break free, but it only allowed the rider to further wrap the lasso by its middle. As it charged and the horse hoped out of the way, circling around it, the bull got more and more entangled until it jumped, but horse and rider gave it a mighty pull and brought it down.
Each time the bull tried to stand up, it was sent to the ground again. Soon Kanon got it so entangled, it could not stand up anymore.
The guys dragging the cage came back and placed it close before leaving again. The bull still resisted and tried to get free, but Kanon didn't let it stand, instead he recovered the first rope he lost and rode to the back of the cage to lasso the bull horns through the iron bars. He then let go of the other rope and the animal stood up like lightning. It tried to flee but Kanon and his horse pulled it into the cage using both ropes. Oh the beast was so not pleased but once it was deep inside, the horse circled around to the gate so Kanon could close it and secure it
Then the horse rose on its hinder legs and Kanon dismounted as it came back down. He made a gesture to the horse, and it moved aside so the assistants could hook the trapped bull to other horses and pull it out towards the center of the tracks.
– That horse obeys even when Kanon is not mounting it
One of the assistants left a crate in the area. Kanon just walked to it and the horse followed him. At his indication, the horse used the crate as a stand. Kanon patted it again then made him back down. Then Kanon instructed it to rise each leg while he acted as if inspecting them. Then he made the horse put one leg on the crate at a time and continued acting as if inspecting them.
Kanon patted the horse once more, then turned to the audience and both bowed to the public first to the left, then to the right. Yes, the horse bowed, turned, and bowed. But Kanon turned around, lifted the crate and began walking, the horse stayed behind although it kept paying attention. As the assistants were getting out of the arena, one of them took away the crate. Kanon followed him, but called to the horse and it turned around too to follow the Gemini out. Finally, Kanon mounted back as the horse passed by but instead of following the others on their way out, he turned to the main balcony.
– And as usual, you do not disappoint – praised Julian from his seat once the gold saint was within hearing radius – Congratulations – Kanon saluted – now tell me… would you mind keeping Squall by your side?
Kanon blinked in disbelief, so Krishna explained.
– That horse had been causing all sort of damages lately and wouldn't let anyone else ride it.
– At some point we thought it would die – added Sorrento – since he was eating badly and wouldn't let anyone check his injuries.
– Looking at him today, it is a whole other horse, – Julian leaned forward, admiring the horse acting so docile under Kanon – his brave and magnificent old self, and only after a couple of weeks. But it seems only you can bring the best out of him. So it makes sense he remains by your side.
Kanon turned to Athena, looking for any objection, but she only smiled.
– If nobody objects, I'll gladly take care of Squall – Kanon bowed
– If you ever find the time to tend to my steeds every once in a while, I'd really appreciate it – said Julian sitting back, but giving Kanon a meaningful look. – I'm sure they'll appreciate your care.
– I see what I can do – Kanon sat straight again
Julian dismissed them so the horse rose on his back legs and turned around to leave.
Kanon was concerned. Tending to Poseidon's steeds was rather a request to meet him at Atlantis, in particular at the private quarters. Kanon felt awfully uneasy. Not because it were the first time he was summoned un such terms, it was not, but because it never occurred to him he'd ever be summoned again since he joined Athena's saints.
He'd rather not go, but how wise would skipping be, with the truce and all? It was never enforced before, was it? Well, he never skipped, he wouldn't know. Would it be now? Would he risk restarting hostilities? Then again, would a mighty god such as Poseidon trigger a new holy war because of a lousy human…? Curses, haven't all holy wars started… for even less than that?
Back when he was a mariner, it never even crossed his mind it was optional. And he wasn't even told twice. Once the world got destroyed it wouldn't even matter. He hated the world as much as he hated himself, so he wasn't even hesitant about it as long as he could get Poseidon to make his wish come true. As he once told Mu, might as well enjoy it. But everything had changed greatly since then… darn, most things. All considered, it was still a small price to pay if it could appease the god he wronged and prevent another holy war, but if he gave in at this point so easily, what would keep Poseidon from making the same requests later on? Wouldn't that qualify as extortion? Kanon would have to keep up with his demands to keep the truce. The price might not be so small in the future. Especially since he was one of Athena's Gold Saints… Besides, there was no way Saga wouldn't find out, he would never allow such treatment of his brother. What then? He had been plain stupid to seek Poseidon again. Everything they have achieved for the past year might just crumble down for his mistake.
Aioria looked at his brother confused when Aioros slowly moved before him and Marin, as if shielding them from Kanon, and pushed them towards the wall. Quickly picking up on the situation, Marin grabbed Aioria's arm and pulled him towards the exit, not exactly to run away but at least to make some room for whatever would happen. In such close quarters there was nowhere to even roll to, to avoid an attack.
– Unicorn Jabu, Hydra Icchi – called Shura with commanding voice. That alone put everyone on guard – stay alert and try to get that horse out of the way.
Both bronze saints turned to where the gold saint was looking at. Kanon was riding towards them completely oblivious to his surroundings. Even the horse seemed to move in autopilot…
– You do realize he is sober this time, right Shura?
The Capricorn full attention was set on the Gemini, so he didn't hear the question the Cancer muttered as he also backed up towards the wall.
Shura didn't even move, set on calling Kanon's attention towards him and away from everyone else.
Everyone held their breath when the horse stopped in the middle of the room…
– What is the situation? – asked Athena from her throne to the saints kneeling before her
– We confirmed Poseidon and two of his mariners are not at the Sanctuary anymore – stated Aioros
– Kanon is also missing – stated Dokko
– Saga is completely out of commission – said Shaka
– The smiths offer their apologies, Athena, as we have been unable to piece Gemini back together – added Mu looking at the remains in the pandora box next to her
– But what exactly happened after the exhibit?
– Kanon was visibly perturbed when he reached us – said Aioros – Shura intended to confront him, but before he could, Saga and Shaka appeared through the gate to another dimension.
– Yes, they were with us and the guests – she turned to Shaka to hear his impressions.
– Kanon had been stripped of all his 5 senses, like I used my techniques on him. Still on a state of alert, his other senses were hypersensibilized causing Gemini to reach for him and change into its divine form. Whatever was about to happen was halted when Saga interfered. He attempted to level his cosmos to Kanon's, I suppose to try and snap him out of it like he had done before, but that only caused Gemini to try to cling to him too while in transition. The unstable and unnatural flow of cosmos, although low, caused Gemini to snap, for a lack of better term.
Athena looked down at Gemini's masks in her lap.
– I'm impressed that despite its shattered state, Gemini still gleams and resonates to the other clothes. – added Mu – It's been reaching for them ever since. It's eerie, like they are communicating to each other. The only other cloth I've seen doing anything of the sort is Phoenix.
– We took the twins to the clinic right afterwards; both had passed out – added Dokko
– And?
– And nothing, no wounds, no injuries, we couldn't find anything wrong with either of them other than exhaustion. We tended to them, tried to wake them up even by infusing cosmos. We didn't get any response, so we left them to rest. I stayed behind to watch out for them, but almost as soon as the sun set, Kanon disappeared right before my eyes. I'm not sure if he was awake as to cast an illusion on me and flee, or if someone else snatched him. I set the alert and we looked for clues to no avail. So I had Saga taken to the pope chambers. Shura and Camus are mounting guard over there right now.
Athena thought about it all.
– But what could have induced Kanon into such a state? – Athena turned to Shion. – Was roping the bull that demanding? Or altogether dealing with Poseidon? We were there during their exchange; he was fine one moment and the next… Did anyone notice anything wrong at the time? – she turned to Aphrodite.
– Along with Poseidon there were Siren Sorrento and Chrysaor Krishna, the three of them left as Julian stopped talking to Kanon. Aside from pope Saga and pope Shion, there were also Shaka and me. The only one to react to the events was Saga dragging Shaka along. I didn't find anything off.
– Where were the other mariners at the time? – asked Shion to Angelo
– Kraken Isaac was with Cygnus Hyoga, Aquarius Camus, Scorpio Milo and Equuleus Shoko at the market, there's several witnesses. Aldebaran pinpointed Sea Horse Baian and Scylla Io at the plaza. Chameleon June saw Poseidon, Siren and Krysaor heading out with the rest of the guests and upon questioning them it seems they joined all activities in the agenda until the very end. Then the god and one of his mariners left and the other casually returned to their lodge. Currently the mariners are at their chambers except for Scylla Io and Siren Sorrento; the first one stayed back at Rhodorio while his partner returned, according to witness at the place. I verified all locations.
– Have you the details of where have they gone through their visit?
– Yes, and I've been delivering a report to Saga every night since they arrived.
– Oh, so you are awake…
Kanon shook his head and turned to the voice he heard to his left. Suddenly recalling what happened he didn't try to move further.
– Don't expect me to apologize for that. You had it coming…
Kanon's eyes and throat burned; his ears pounded.
– You knew what I was after, or you wouldn't be here. So, help me understand why did you came over if you were unwilling to cooperate? Was it to mock me?
– No… – he said with a coarse voice.
– Then? Force of habit? – Julian or rather Poseidon approached with a chalice of wine and sat on the edge of the bed next to Kanon – You were always my favorite stallion, – he said giving a suggestive squeeze to Kanon's thigh – the others don't compare, nobody does. – He turned to his chalice and sipped the wine almost pouting. To Kanon it was difficult to wrap his head around the idea that the nude teenager speaking to him was a mighty god. – You never missed an appointment, – the claim forced Kanon to look Poseidon in the eye – I thought you enjoyed them as much as I did. And yet you didn't come here for fun today. Do not tell me it was for fear of retaliation. – Kanon couldn't help but to look away – That's it, isn't it? Huh, what a letdown. – Poseidon also looked away, back to his chalice, while he caressed Kanon's inner thigh – Were you trying to exchange yourself for peace? – said Poseidon looking Kanon over his shoulder – as if mere human would suffice. – He just shrugged and leaned back, resting his head on Kanon's abs and looking at the ceiling. After a brief silence, he added on a softer voice – Oh, but you are not a mere human, no… – He just turned around and laid down on top of Kanon as if he were but another cushion in the large bed. – You are Athena's gold saint! – Poseidon rested his head on his own hand while casually playing with the chalice. He lowered his voice again – You were doing more harm than good surrendering yourself, giving this much power over you to the enemy of your goddess And I didn't even ask for it, it was not a threat. – Poseidon moved up to whisper in Kanon's ear – Would you ditch your life and everything you hold dear for me? Would you still serve me? Would you abide to my will to keep me from harming anyone on shore? – Poseidon's traced Kanon's jawline with his nose – You might think you did it for her, but deliberately diminishing her army constitutes betrayal. You are still a traitor, Kanon.
– I deeply regret what I did to you. I only wanted to make amends, whichever way you chose.
– Oh, so you were expecting me to punish you? – Poseidon sat on Kanon's abs, placing the cold chalice on his solar plexus – Like getting stabbed by my trident is but a hiccup. As if nobody else on your side would care? You endangered the truce coming here with such mindset. I never intended to hurt you, not on purpose at least… – Poseidon leaned forward on top of Kanon – Oh, but you do carve punishing, don't you… – The god looked down at the red marks his own hands had inflicted on that though neck. Bruises seemed inevitable – I wonder when exactly you became this broken… – He moved back to fully take the image of Kanon, all of the scars on his body, the dark mark where the holy trident pierced right under his ribs. Poseidon frowned angerly – Those accursed Nixes… – He then shrugged and went to the table for a refill of his chalice – I know I must release you, but I certainly can't send you back like that…
– Nobody will know
– You'll go as far as to cover for me… – Poseidon thought about it – but, you know… – He went back to the bed and shamelessly looked up and down Kanon's naked body. – I can't bring myself to rid of this eyesight. – He said from behind his chalice as he traced with his free hand the leather straps tying Kanon to the bed frame – Tell me… – Poseidon put down the chalice on the nearby table as he checked the state of the straps and the frame. He was well aware such nimble restrains wouldn't do anything to hold back the mighty warrior on the bed in case he really wanted to leave, so he was rather intrigued as to why they didn't snap while he was chocking Kanon. "I really put him in danger, and he didn't fight back…" – Do you hate me? – He grabbed Kanon's chin to look into his eyes.
– No. – said Kanon with a better voice
– Did you ever love me?
– No. – Kanon closed his eyes again
– So, I am truly no one to you… – said the god with a frown… He then kicked the bed's frame and the leather stripes came loose – Get out of here. – He picked up his chalice and turned to the banquet in the table. His knuckles were white.
– No. – Kanon sat on the bed and a bolt of pain struck him. His passiveness had pissed off Poseidon to the point where the god hurt him, although he was unaware of how bad it really was. Despite that, Kanon massaged his wrists to promote blood circulation to his hands – I can't leave like this. – He was aware now that he had ruined the night. Poseidon just wanted to enjoy his attention like before, but Kanon hadn't been up to the task burdened by all sorts of grim scenarios.
– Oh, you want a second chance? – The god eyes shot daggers – It's no use, Julian still does not appeal to you, and I'm not in the mood to have Io take his place. Contrary to what you may think, hurting you on spite is no fun. It's not going to work. Leave…
– You know I can perform better; I won't be coming again. – said Kanon tentatively before attempting to stand up "It's not so bad", he concluded. Without using his cosmos, Julian was merely a kid with no real capability to hurt anyone with Kanon's constitution – Julian is too young for me.
– He is already 18, even in this time and place, that's old enough.
– I'm almost double his age – Kanon put his hands on Julian's shoulders.
– Is that it? – Poseidon turned around and looked at Kanon straight to his eyes. The difference in height was evident. – Or is it that you would rather be with someone else? – Kanon blinked surprised by the question. Was Poseidon jealous? Without waiting for an answer, he used a burst of cosmos to send Kanon crashing against the side of the bed, although it would take more than that to hurt him. The deep kiss he got afterwards was as unexpected as finding his wrists tied to his ankles by the straps of leather he didn't remove. Julian stood between Kanon's legs.
– I'm going in again so you rather "perform better" because that will be all the help you are going to get – Despite Poseidon's command and Kanon's willingness to comply, it was all too difficult for him to disregard Julian's age. The age gap between them ought to be the largest in Kanon's life and that made him greatly uncomfortable. If only the god had stuck to Io instead as always, Kanon wouldn't be so awkward taking his manhood into his mouth. He blinked incredulously when he heard Julian gasping instead. "Ah, so Julian is on board with this?". That was what disturbed Kanon the most, that Poseidon was abusing Julian and made him an accomplice. But the more he worked up the body before him, the surer he was that he was dealing with a willing Julian. That was a crucial difference.
Kanon began sucking harder, massaging all the length up and down with his tongue and lips. Julian had to lean forward and support his weight with his hands on the mattress behind Kanon. Suddenly Poseidon pulled away and pushed Kanon onto the floor.
– Would you say you "performed better" this time? – Poseidon said while positioning himself between Kanon's legs. – Let's find out – He pressed forward as Kanon tried to relax to take him in – We can indeed consider it better, don't you think? Well done.
Kanon was not so sure who he was dealing with anymore, but he decided he wouldn't care. It was more than evident Julian was no longer a child. He closed his eyes and let either of them work him as they pleased. Unlike before, tied this way there was little he could contribute to the experience.
– It's not so bad, is it? – Poseidon said as he watched Kanon grow harder under him with every trust. – Of course not. – He grabbed Kanon's manhood and began massaging it. The ex mariner did not hold back his reactions – Oh, so not that much has changed after all. See how much easier it is when you are not being a jerk? – Poseidon traced Kanon's thighs as he continued stimulating him, – It's a shame you didn't take advantage of the bed when it was available. I'm sure it would have been more comfortable – Somewhat annoyed by Kanon's silence, Poseidon then grabbed him by the hips to increase the pace and force of his trusts – Who are you thinking about? – He asked as he leaned forward over Kanon. Taken by surprise again, Kanon met with his fiery gaze – Who finally managed… to tame the mighty sea dragon… and pump some will to live into his beatless heart… just to take it away? – As Kanon looked away, Poseidon moved back to fully appreciate him once more and grabbed the tied wrists tightly to pull from them as he trusted forward.– That song at the concert… – Kanon gasped for air – Not even the Siren… proved to be as mesmerizing… You gave away too much… of your true self on that song… – Poseidon leaned forward again, his voice was soft – Did the melody reach… the person you intended…? No, it didn't… or you wouldn't be here… It was not Athena… since she was there with you… Was it your brother…? He was hooked at the song alright…, even behind the mask… Some other saint, perhaps…? – Kanon did not reply. Poseidon's frowned and pinned him down by the shoulders – Doesn't matters… –He said lowering his face to taste the red marks on Kanon's neck – Keep thinking about that person… if it makes this easier…
It did not, it truly did not. Kanon missed Mu so much that it hurt, despite the Aries blatant rejection being with someone else felt like cheating. And yet, he could not keep quiet under Poseidon's antics, the god knew him better than he expected. – Yes, that delightful voice… I want to hear more of it.
Harder, faster. The awkward position and the force of each trust were driving air out of Kanon's rib cage. And yet he was at his limit. He saw stars as his release left him breathless. Poseidon was delighted. He moved back to wrap his arms around Kanon's knees as he delivered his lust deep inside him. Kanon clenched his jaw so hard that a tear threated to roll down from his shut eyes.
Poseidon moved back to appreciate his work. He smirked when he noticed his seed dripping from that delightful body. He bit Kanon's inner thigh close to the knee. – How long would you remain tied up? – Poseidon put a hand on Kanon's spotted abs to make a wet trail up to Kanon's chin. – Are you looking for more? – Without too much effort Kanon snapped the straps. Poseidon let go of him and rose to his feet. – Good. So, I'll go ahead back to your goddess, it seems she is looking for us. You stay here as long as you need and straighten yourself. – Poseidon just walked to the door.
– Wait… – said Kanon sitting on the floor. He just looked at him over his shoulder – Don't you hate me?
– There's no need. You seem to hate yourself enough. – He picked up his chalice on the way to the next room. – Don't ever downgrade yourself like this again, or you might not fare well.
– Why do you care?
– Why indeed… let's talk again when you wake up
He left like that without caring to dress up. Kanon was so confused.
What had just happened? Poseidon was indeed acting odd towards him. Was he really under the impression that Kanon had feelings for him? "Was I that good pretending?" The god was disappointed and even angry to learn the truth, and also somewhat jealous of the possibility of Kanon being interested in someone other than him. Kanon wondered if Mu would be in danger if Poseidon found out… And what did he mean by "when you wake up"?
Kanon was sore and his head kept spinning. It would be better to pick himself up and get going too. He looked at his wrists and then himself in one of the nearby mirrors.
– Your brother is going to freak out if he sees you like that – said a voice entering the room – I wouldn't have believed a flimsy runt like Julian could play such a number on you – Io stood by the door frame
– He is the vessel of a very hothead god – Kanon couldn't find the willpower to stand up with Io in the room. He lacked the confidence to brush off what just happened and didn't want Io to attest it. So he remained on the floor.
– Ah, so you let him trash you on purpose? – Io approached – What a stupid thing to do. You have endangered us all! Here…
– What are you plotting? – said Kanon looking past the small golden vial Io had in his hand, into the mariners' eyes.
– Soothing up those bruises so we all get to live another day.
– Fuck off.
– No way. I'd rather fuck you. Hey!
Annoyed as hell, Kanon put himself together and quickly stood up in better shape than he expected.
– It's nothing.
– The hell it is. You got bruises in your neck, your wrists and ankles. I'm not doing this for you. If that deranged brother of yours sees you like this, no stone will remain unturned until someone pays for it. Namely, the rest of the world. The truce will be crushed under his crusade. So, quit being a jackass and take the ambrosia.
Kanon eyed Io. Saga was undoubtedly overprotective and possessive of his little brother. He was also awfully powerful and merciless. But how was it possible that the marines or at least Io feared he could just step away from Athena and defy Poseidon because of him?
– We just came back to life, all mariners and more than half of the saints. The least we need is to die on a pyrrhic holy war because you lack some self-respect.
Kanon took the vial and sat on the bed defeated.
– I don't feel entitled to such luxuries.
– Ok, I was expecting a mean punch to my face. Are you really Gemini Kanon, former Sea Dragon Kanon?
– How are you so sure he wouldn't let it rest? – Kanon fell backwards to the mattress – He wouldn't go against Athena
– How are you so sure Athena wouldn't back him up? You honestly believe she would think none of this? Are you mad? Someone mistreats the one saint who paved the way for her army on the final battle and she just stays idle? She is not known for betraying her saints… Is it you who wishes to stir a war?
As Kanon didn't reply, Io turned to the banquet. What a shame most of it was going to be wasted. Knowing nobody else was going to touch it, he took a few bites.
– I completely misinterpreted Poseidon tonight.
– Horribly. For starters because it was not Poseidon's request, it was Julian's.
– Why Julian's?
– How would I know? Stokholm syndrome? Despite playing him for a fool, Poseidon always favored you, still does, it might have permeated into Julian's impressionable psyche. He wanted to have you tonight. If it had been Poseidon, it wouldn't have mattered if it was me or the kid the vessel he used.
– Now that's odd.
– To say the least. Having all of us around, he fell for the specific asshole who couldn't care less. More than an insult, it's spraying salt to the wound.
– And as his mariners didn't you advise him otherwise?
– Of course we did! But he is a god and a teenager, such a painful combination that you won't hear any of us voicing any "I told you so", we like our asses where they are. How did you do it? How did you made a god believe you loved him?
– If you fell for my lies, you have only your narcissism to blame; if you are now in denial, it's not my problem either. How could any of you still believe in anything I did as Sea Dragon after learning the truth?
Io did not reply right away – … surviving the invasion of Gemini temple was never in your plans, was it?
– There were no casualties
– That's not the point! Darn, so we put our lives in the hands of a suicidal hack? Nobody reaches out for the warriors of the gods expecting them to be burned like a box of matches. If you can't respect yourself at least respect your cloth and your goddess!
Kanon remained silent. In frustration, Io began eating as if taking it on the food.
The ex mariner found it ironic to be lectured on self-respect after he not long ago lectured fellow Scorpion saint on the same topic. "Guess indeed you need one to know another". He sighed and stood up.
– Athena – called Shaka cautiously – if you allow me to voice a mere opinion – the holy girl nodded so he continued – I didn't have much time to fully assess the situation, but… we must not discard the possibility of Kanon doing that to himself, unintentionally if you like, rather than being subject to an attack.
– What do you mean Shaka? – Shion was concerned. Everybody turned to the Indian
– When the festival started, Kanon was originally tasked with coordinating the equestrian events. Later, he undertook the guests' affairs. To that end he became involved with Aphrodite logistics, Aioros' security, and Dokko's safety affairs. That on top of whatever other activities he had going on.
– Namely, the concert rehearsal – said Aphrodite to Angelo.
– The supervision of the bronze saints who participated in the equestrian events, since it was a brand-new experience for them – he replied.
– Kanon also supported people from Rhodorio's plaza – recalled Aioros.
– He was to attest some clothes assignments tomorrow – added Shion.
– Didn't Kanon help you to keep the mariners in check, Angelo? – said Dokko, Angelo nodded – I bet having them and Poseidon around must have been a burden – He turned to Shion – especially having them roaming free or seated around Athena and his brother. And there's also his own performance.
"And yet he found time for me" Mu didn't dare voice that loud, he lowered his gaze in guilt "Why would he, when he was so busy?". Mu suddenly wondered if the reason why Kanon got annoyed when someone just verbally recognized his efforts was because it would be way more useful to actually step in and help him out when he needed it. But he never said anything about needing help, why? "Those twins are two of a kind indeed."
– Top it with his unattended sleep disorder… – Shion fists turned white. He greatly regretted not acknowledging earlier the overload Kanon was dealing with.
To his own annoyance, Shaka's jealousy had made him especially keen at spotting Kanon anywhere. Set on finding out whether the Gemini was deliberately taunting him, or it was just coincidence, the Virgo learned about all the activities he was involved in. The Indian wondered how the Greek could manage all of that, but after what happened, he concluded Kanon actually could not. Despite how much Shaka loathed his fellow saint, it was against their principles to remain silent any longer. What's more, he should have talked sooner.
– And this is only what we are aware off – Dokko was worried
– My guess is that Poseidon's request was but the final straw. – added Shakka – But instead of Kanon just burning out on us, Gemini took the blow.
– Athena, – called Shion deeply concerned when he noticed how the holy girl was trying to remain calm and failing – I apologize for neglecting my duties as the Pope's aid. I'm sure this crisis could have been averted if only I had paid more attention to the twins. I barely noticed how strained Saga was, but Kanon completely escaped my awareness.
Athena didn't seem to hear him, she was looking at the masks.
– The most important thing right now is to find Kanon, or at least make sure he isn't either a hostage or a traitor. The way he disappeared was too suspicious.
– Huh? – Mu looked away from the meeting, towards the general direction where Aries temple was.
– What is it, Mu? – asked Dokko
– Poseidon and one of his mariners just arrived at Aries staircase, – Kiki just informed him telepathically – They are going up. Kanon is not with them, and the other mariner hasn't been located. – He looked at Shion wondering what he should do.
– Bring them to the guest area and return Gemini to its resting place afterwards. Shion and I would greet them alone. All of you return to your positions.
– Immediately… Saga!
Saga just appeared escorted by Shura and Camus.
– what is going on?
– Take this back. – Kanon left the vial on the table – I won't be indebted to you
– I told you I'm not doing this for you, so think nothing of it and eat it… on my honor as Scylla Mariner I swear I'll seek no further retribution of any kind from you, Athena, any other of her saint or her followers.
Still somewhat hesitant, Kanon opened the vial.
– Kanon, Io – Poseidon called them – There's some restiveness up here, something must have happened, but they are trying to keep it from us. Be discreet…
With that Kanon ate the ambrosia and his wounds disappeared.
– Let's go
– Won't you take a shower or something?
– I'll do it at my chambers. Otherwise, nobody would believe I was out drinking all afternoon.
Io blinked surprised, then grabbed the bottle of wine from the table and took some in his mouth without swallowing while letting a drop or two fall on his clothes.
– The ambrosia already gives me an alcoholic breath, but… – Io threw some wine on Kanon. He just glared at the mariner's sly smile before getting dressed – Virgo would see right through our act just by standing close. Drop the act and don't say a word if you run into him.
After a while, the gate to another dimension appeared on Gemini's atrium and both of them came stumbling out. Io accidentally dropped the bottle of wine, and it broke.
– Jeez, no! Hey, Kanon… – But Kanon was looking at the Gemini altar, Io turned that way – Oh rats… – There were Saga, Shion and Mu. The mariner looked around trying to figure out where they were – Gemini temple… are we screwed?
– What happened? – Asked Kanon to his visitors.
– Nothing yet – said Saga.
– Scylla Io – called Mu – Would you like me to take you to your chambers or do you have other plans?
– Oh, well… – Io looked at Kanon then back at Mu – I guess it is late already. Although, I just made a mess, I wouldn't like to leave it like this…
– Don't worry about it – And as Kanon had done before, Mu cleaned up by teleporting the mess somewhere else.
– Ok then, see you… – Io stepped forward towards Mu, but glanced back to Kanon – later, I hope – And Mu took him away.
Once out of the way, Kanon turned to the private chambers, but Saga stopped him.
– Kanon… – Saga wasn't sure of what to say, Kanon looked at him over his shoulder. It reminded Saga about the time when they were constantly fighting, that cold indifference – You had me worried. Why did you leave me at the clinic?
– Huh? – Ah, right. When he woke up, he was at the clinic – … I didn't see you there… – He had left in such a hurry that he didn't take the time to acknowledge his surroundings.
– Dokko and Camus, said you were in the bed right next to mine and just vanished…
Saga was visibly disturbed, so Kanon turned around to face him – Sorry, my mind was elsewhere. I needed to catch up.
The older twin nodded slowly.
– Please come over, you must see this – He took out Gemini's box and removed the lid. Kannon approached and was frozen solid when he looked inside.
– What happened to Gemini?
– I guess we broke it
– We? How?!
Saga was more distressed than he was letting out. Reminded Kanon of back when they were little and made a mess, the older twin never knew how to react: call for someone, clean it out, hide all evidence or just run away. So, the younger twin reached forward and took the first random piece he could get.
– It looks rather disassembled than broken, it still shines and… well, it feels just like always… I've seen broken clothes; this is not the same.
– Maybe not, but the smiths already tried to put it back together to no avail – said Shion, Kanon had already forgotten about him.
– Are you telling me it is unusable?
– Unless you can use it like that.
Kanon didn't try, it didn't feel appropriate. – Who else knows about this?
– Only gold saints, silver saint Eagle Marin and bronze saints Unicorn Jabu and Hydra Icchi
– Let's give it a rest. – Kanon solemnly placed the piece back to the box and put the box on its resting place at the altar. – We'll deal with it later – Kanon turned to the private chambers.
– Wait. Saga, Kanon! – Shion could never let it rest.
– It's late, your holiness, – said Kanon – We all have duties to take care tomorrow. There's nothing we can do right now, but to recover – He then turned to his brother – Will you stay over? – Saga just nodded – See you tomorrow, your holiness.
Just like that, the twins disappeared into the private quarters. Shion stayed before the altar a bit longer before deciding to teleport away.
– Have you eaten yet? – Saga stopped in front of the kitchen.
– Not yet – said Kanon absentmindedly.
So as the younger man went to the bathroom, the older stayed back and prepared a small dinner of cheese, olives and koulouri. Then he went to the bathroom and knocked.
– Come
Saga opened the door just to let his brother know the dinner was ready, but he couldn't say a thing. Kanon was standing under the shower, in complete darkness, apparently more asleep than awake. Soap foam slid from his body to the drain, a dim rectangle of light from the kitchen was the only light.
– Let me help you – Saga went in
– Hn? There's no need.
– Maybe not but I'd like to…
Kanon sat down on the tube and let Saga clean his hair. It was weird, he couldn't recall any other time Saga had ever done something like that. As the foam built, Saga began massaging his brother's head, then his neck… when he reached the shoulders, Kanon moaned, but Saga didn't get distracted.
Saga's movements made Kanon recall Mu's, although not so skilled, so he paid attention to them and felt peculiar flow of cosmos from Saga's hands, through his body and back. The younger twin concluded it must be a healing technique.
– So, you also helped at the clinic? – Asked Kanon as Saga began to rinse his hair
– I learned this from Dokko along with Aioros, but I haven't done it since. How do you relate it to the clinic? You've never gone, have you?
– Mu… – Kanon hesitated, but continued – For a while he managed to control my sleep disorders doing something similar
– Anger, frustration, resentment, desperation, fear, uncertainty, anxiety of coming short, general unrest and physical tiredness, that's your sleep disorder, – Saga spoke softly, his voice was barely audible over the water coming down from the shower, Kanon didn't close the faucet – Remove them and you would naturally sleep better… Mu gave you a shelter, no expectations to meet, not judging… – All of a sudden, Saga hugged his brother, getting wet in the process – I'm sorry…
– Saga? – Kanon put a hand on his forehead, more to move him back and look to his face than to check if he was sick, but got him wet
– I've been an awful big brother to you, and it seems I still am. How do I even start to improve?
– What are you talking about? – It tugged at Kanon's heart to see his brother so worried under that dim light – You are here caring for me instead of calling me names or nagging at me as when Momus was around, are you not? That's all I need.
Saga moved back so Kanon turned around.
– But you still don't trust me enough to tell me when things are getting out of hand for you. – He looked down.
– That's… – Kanon blinked surprised – well, I was not aware of it myself, – Kanon figured he meant what happened to Gemini – besides you were too busy…
– Nonsense! Kanon, you are way more important than a festival! Please, take better care of yourself. I will always be available for you, so don't hesitate to come to me. I might not be the sharpest around as to figure things on my own but that doesn't mean I don't care.
– Don't talk about you like that, Saga, ever! Lately you have managed to be there when it counts, it counts! – A weird silence fell upon them. Then Kanon stood up and closed the faucet. Saga stood up too and handed a towel to his brother. When Saga was about to step out to get his brother some clothes, Kanon spoke again.
– If you really want to know… – Kanon was still in the shower holding the towel and looking to the floor – I've indeed neglected myself. It's like I'm stuck on this autodestructive path, and I don't know how to get out of it. I keep sabotaging myself and making you worry. And here I have you, a knot of nerves, while I'm out there doing one stupid thing after another… I was… – He sighed – I took too many responsibilities on this festival, and I was so stressed out after the presentation that… –Saga refrained from filling in the blank – I did something really stupid this afternoon, stupid as in holy war proportions. – Saga blinked surprised, but Kanon frowned and looked away – I won't tell you what it was because you are sure to freak out and I can't take it right now, besides it's under control, there will be no major consequences and I already got lectured for it… but none the less… I'm sorry.
Saga shook his head unsure of what to do. After a moment he stepped forward and put a hand on his brother's arm
– Thank you for trusting me and telling me this. Hopefully you'll tell me the full story someday.
– Over my dead corpse! It's way too embarrassing, – if there had been lighter, Saga could have seen Kanon blush as he walked past him – but you might figure it out someday.
With that gesture, Saga got a faint idea of what it would be, so he decided to drop the subject.
– Well, I'm glad the outcome turned not as grim. Now, get dressed so we can dine and sleep.
The next day, there were the clothes assignments in the Sactuary coliseum. Almost all clothes were already taken, and Moses' disciples were the last ones to participate. All cadets and saints were present, but no outsiders of any kind. Not even Saori's guests.
As Athena sat on her throne, to her right stood Saga and behind him Shion. To the left stood the saintias. And before them sat the contest witnesses, Moses, Docrates, Babel and Algol as mentors. Kanon as honorary witness stood next to them. In a circle around the arena stood the gold saints and behind them, stood their troops, the north hemisphere to the right and the south to the left.
Alec fought first. His opponent was faster and stronger, but Alec's cosmos control proved to be mightier. After some struggle, he won the Hydrus cloth.
Magda was next. Her opponent was physically stronger too and pretty skilled by the looks of it. She was on a clear disadvantage, so she decided a direct confrontation would be disastrous. So she played dumb for a bit and he fell for it, he grew confident. So in the end she smashed him into the ground and won Dorado cloth.
Homer was the last one. His cosmos busted speed was a clear advantage, his opponent didn't even see him coming. It was easy for him to claim Volans.
- This concludes the clothes assignments… - Announced Saga after finishing his welcome speech - Now, as all available clothes are currently assigned, I'll take advantage to make a few arrangements. – This surprised most saints - The military troops will stay the same, but a few mentorship changes are in order: Equuleus Shoko, now your mentor will be Scorpio Milo, Hydrus Alec now your mentor will be Ophiuchus Shaina, Dorado Magda and Volans Homer your mentor will now be Gemini Kanon, Eridannus Anais your mentor will be Capricorn Shura. Altar Missael your mentor will be Cancer Angelo and Mensa Victor your mentor will be Taurus Aldebaran…
- Kanon got two disciples? – Angelo was impressed.
- You and Milo getting one is as concerning – answered Aphrodite.
- hey!
- So far the only clothes left are Lyra, Orion and the three Argo Navis, right? – asked Aldebaran to Mu once they were leaving for the day.
- Plus Caelum and Fornax, for obvious reasons, yes. Are you going to meet your new disciple?
- Yes. I wonder if it'd be a good idea to take him dinner at the festival to celebrate.
Then they spotted Kanon waiting for Mu at the entrance
- Sounds good. But in that case don't leave Docrates out
Kanon just walked out as Mu parted ways with Alde to follow him. But even after catching up with him, the lemurian kept silent.
- You sure you want to spend the rest of your day with me? – asked Kanon – Your mood looks worse than mine.
- It won't improve anyways, and I don't have other plans. But maybe you are not in the mood to bear with me?
- Considering how you don't recall most about me, your words imply that out of all the people now in the area there's not one single soul you think would be capable of make you feel better. So it's the same being with me, some acquittance who asked you out, than with the friends you fought alongside.
- I rather take my chances with you out of novelty.
- Ah, so you don't expect me to succeed?
- not really