Of Nightmares

[Reno]

Hatori still remembered the first day he met her.
The love of his life.

The two-leggeds, better known as humans – or as they best preferred to boast masters – were the ones dejecting them all to this… this disgusting, terrible, disrespectful sham of a life. He didn’t know what life was like before this, nor did his father, who – generation after generation – they had lived like this. Had no one ever told him things had been different, could he believe things could be something other than what they were.

His father, who passed down the stories of his father, who passed down the stories of his father and so on and so forth, told him of a world beyond the stars. It wasn’t something magnificent, like this world was, with lush green grasses and running streams and fountains that glimmered with magic itself. Yet somehow still, Hatori was captivated by the land that he and the rest of them used to call home. Stone houses, carved thousands of years ago by their ancestors out of mountains, formed a circular pattern in nothing but a barren wasteland.

That was right. A desert. They lived on a desert, where the sand dunes stretched for miles and the sandstorms were rough but bracing. In that world, they thrived. Like Norn, this terrible world, their centerpiece was a fountain but theirs did not spit water, but rather sand. It really all sounded quite glorious! And as his father explained the windows made not of glass but clear quartz, the doors and furniture of metal, the knobs and accessories of fine gems, Hatori’s snakish tail would wag, and he’d eagerly ask his father to get to the best part.

The best part – Hatori’s favorite – was the reason they could live upon such a green-less land. Trees. So few in number, they could be counted upon one paw - though there was a rumor of an oasis, something so glorious no one had ever gone and returned to tell the tale of it, where there were at least a hundred trees and a pond of fish. Trees were blessed things in their land – never to be tampered with and always valued – and to have even a piece of wood, using a naturally fallen branch, meant you had strength and power and the upmost respect. And, in their family, of which had been once ranked one of the highest in their land, they had a piece of wood – a sacred piece. A music-maker, long, hollow and thin, with holes for air to easily pass through – better known as a flute.

And Hatori would go to sleep at nights, curled up between his mother’s belly and his brother’s left paw, dreaming of holding this flute as if this sign of their royalty would be enough to have the two-leggeds unlock their cages. And he would guide his family out of their cages, out into the world, out of Norn and to somewhere better. Somewhere where they could be as they were meant to be.

His father called them Atterians. It was a name they all knew, but no one else heard. No, the names everyone knew them by, those were the ones Hatori most heard: Beasts. Monsters. Renki.

Renki. It was too foreign a word for his ‘almighty masters’ to use – no it was only ever uttered by the ones with wings; the blessed. It meant one who could not be loved and one who could never love.

But Hatori knew this was widely untrue. If not because of his father, his mother, or even his big brother, he learned it because of himself.

And that was the day he met her. Ida Tellus. Blood-bonding – the Atterian form of marriage – was not permitted, but even still, she took his last name, proud and honored to have it.

The two-leggeds… it was possibly the only thing he could ever be ‘grateful’ for from them. To keep their supply of little pets handy, they tried to force the mating process. Stick a male and a female in a barn stable together during the right season – it was sure to work, right? But, even with the urge making it near painful to resist every female they threw at him, he refused. His brother and he, they agreed they would not soil the Tellus name by being just another beast for these squishy, pale, hairless creatures to use. They would walk on four legs, like they deemed, but beyond that they did their best to cause a little mayhem every now and again and resist as much as could be allowed. This… this monstrosity of a brothel was just one thing he could not partake in. Even a few of the more forward ones had to go running and whining at the door to be let out when he snapped and threatened their necks.

And then, for some odd reason, they threw her in.

He lay on the straw, almost boredly, long tail flicking back and forth, looking again at the high walls of the little prison as if he could find a way out, when his ears twitched as the door screeched on its hinges and they dragged in yet another bitch he was sure to turn away, the creature hardly putting up a struggle as she was ushered – actually USHERED, how disgustingly weak – in by her collar. And then the door was shut.

He rose his head from his paws and looked at her. And then, he REALLY looked at her. The smell of her was strong – but even during this season when she should be in heat, there was nothing but fear in its place. Her tail, cut brutally short, was tucked between her legs as she huddled in a corner – a causality of living. They did it to them all, the horror of the surgery enough to break some of them – even he held the marks of what the two-leggeds took from them.

And as he stood, she could quickly see what that was as he limped towards her. Scars were at the back of each paw, where his sixth claw, like a demonic back claw of a bird, had been. The removal of them had left him without the ability to run ever again. But that was not all – his two top canines, meant to be long saber-teeth, had been pulled. Twice. Now, he just had two gaps there, though luckily this did not inhibit his ability to eat.

When he got near her, this little black wolf with her ears down and her attempt to look so small, she flinched. But unlike last time, this did not bother him. Suddenly her weakness was endearing. Suddenly… he wanted to protect her. “Don’t worry,” He murmured, licking one downed ear, “I won’t hurt you.” He laid down beside her, his tail wrapping around her. “What’s your name?”
“I-I-Ida.”

That day, they spoke. He remembered her telling him how she didn’t feel fit to be a mother, and had lost her children before, three of them, but if she didn’t produce one…
Oh, he knew what they would do. They’d scrape her. They’d work her to the bone in hard labor since she didn’t need to be protected for motherhood until she, most likely, died prematurely.

And that was too terrible an ending for such a precious, beautiful creature. Hatori refused to stand for that.

Ninth and a half months after that meeting, little Terra was born. And Hatori saw her and him for the first time in their human forms, because an animal could not birth a non-animal. It was the only time Atterians were permitted this luxury – and only then when they were locked away from curious eyes. No one was permitted to know they could look like them. In most cases, it was even forbidden for them to speak in their tongue in their presence, but such a secret was not as heavily guarded.

And, if he was good and did his labor as was assigned, he would get to sleep with his family. His brother would have been disappointed in him – or maybe proud of him for taking care of his mate and son. Had he known of course that he even had a nephew and a sister-in-law. But no, shortly at the beginning of his mate trials, as an act of punishment, they sold his brother away. But Terra was still their kin, and now it was up to him to teach him the meaning of the name Tellus.

Terra, his son.


Terra still remembered the first day he saw one of them.
A blessed.

It could also, and was more rightfully so, pronounced blesséd with an accent to make it seem even more impressive than it already was.

It had been just shortly after his transformation. Ah, yes, he remembered that terrible time. His father, every morning before he was taken away, would give his mother a kiss and him a pat on the head, promising to be back that night for dinner. Sometimes he would try to make his father stay, would hold onto his paw or his ear or his tail, because nothing ever was bad when his dad was around. But even if his father tried to stay, the two-leggeds dragged them apart. And then he was gone and that was when the trainers came.

His mother, at first, fought them. He’d never seen her so fierce. But they beat her back – made sure she didn’t get the idea to do it again. She told him to fight it, as long as he could. So they could stay out of the fields and live like a real family just a bit longer. He did. He fought it, as long as he could. Ran away from the sharp picks that poked his body, rolled away from the shocks from the metal staffs, and curled in a ball and held his ears when they kicked and hit and yelled ‘Change, change, CHANGE!’ He never knew that, not only where they trying to force him into his bestial form, but they were also teaching him obedience.

But, after three full years of that, it happened. He couldn’t stop it when it occurred, the fury of being kicked and poked and shocked on a daily basis – and watching the same happen to his brothers and sisters and family all around him! No, he hated this. He hated them. And he would not let them hurt them anymore!

And with those final thoughts, and his mother’s anguished howls, he changed. He was just a small little wolf pup – but the sight of him made his mother cry. He felt horribly, knowing he had failed her. But it was not his change that made her cry – no it was him. The sight of him – or rather the sight of what they were going to DO to him. Eleven spikes jutting from his spine and two tiny bull horns jutted from his temples. She knew what was coming next, the pain of losing her own tail as fresh of a memory as if it had happened yesterday, and continued to screech and holler and howl as they snatched up her son by one of his new horns and took him away.
“MAMA! MAMAAAAAAA!” Terra screamed and that was the last time he would see her for a few days.

It was excruciating. He knew he would never forget it. Not enough anesthesia for a full numbness, so when they reaaaallly got down to the bone of his spine and skull, tearing out those spikes and horns to their very roots so they would never grow back, pain rocketed through him like nothing else. He had huge gaps in his memory, so he was sure he had slept during some of the procedure, though he never remembered feeling rested.

And then, he remembered waking up to a more pleasant, though different, place. His mother’s rough tongue, and his father’s rumbling voice stirred him. When they saw his eyes open, they looked so happy, and he wondered, if between all this, he had learned something that pleased them. The last lesson his mother was giving him was about letters, by shaping them out with her fingers in the dust. Human things – but things that would aid him as well. To be able to read was a luxury and a rarity. And it gave them, if only slight, some power in this mad world.

He wouldn’t realize until many years later that they were not happy – they were relieved. Relieved he would live.

He spent the next few weeks in their new home – a slightly less spacious barn but still ever close to his mother who was in charge of tending to him and his wounds while still his father worked. This place, this new place, was so different from the place he knew before yet it was ironically exactly the same. They were still his brothers and sisters, his family. But they were older – almost all of them older than him. And unlike those in the room before, these brethren of his could not ever become human again. It was now treason for them – for he as well – to turn back.

Ever.

And yet, sometimes, when no one was looking, his father did. His mother nor he were never meant to know this secret. He always changed when the moon was high and nearly all were asleep, stretching his limbs and walking about. Terra caught him only once, his body injured, his sleep restless – and one day he woke up, just in time to see his father change. He always found it strange he was not… furry like his mother who, when human, kept her wolfen ears and her half-tail and even her claws and sharp fangs. But his father… he could almost pass as a human. Almost – if not for those gold, gold eyes. He never let him know he knew, pretended to sleep when his father came back to bed. He already knew he would never tell a soul – he had to protect his own.

As it was, the first few days in his new home were uneventful. He spent a lot of it asleep, bandages wrapped securely around his midsection and the crown of his head that were changed semi-regularly. He remembered that morning though. It was just shortly after a bandage change, so his mother was sniffing him all over and staying nearer to him that was necessary, when a two-legged, one of their ‘masters’ came running down the line of cages, banging a shovel against the bars of their caged doors and yelling such things as “Behave!” and “Act in line!” Terra had no idea what was happening; all he knew was all that noise was giving him a headache and making his already sore body ache.

And then, they came. Their power was so prominent, it was like he could taste it in the air. It made him feel dizzy and he had to shut his eyes.

When he next opened them, he saw, holding onto the bars of their door with extreme interest, three young boys. At first, he didn’t see anything that was different between them and any other two-legged sapling. But, when his eyes focused, he saw them, fluttering at their backs, so thin they were almost see-through.

Wings. Big, beautiful wings.

Two of them were identical in every way, same blonde hair and same blue eyes. The only difference was their wings – one merely swirls of blacks and whites and the other a blast of fiery reds and oranges. Between them, leaning so close his face was smooshed in the bars, his wild brown spikes only as impressive as the colorful blues and yellows of his wings.
“Daah, look at the little one! It’s so cute!” The blue-boy spoke. “I hope it’s okay though…”
“Remember what Volken said. It’s gonna grow up to be a Renki.” The white one scoffed and even for his young age, he could put on a good sneer.
The boy beside him gasped, “Rox! Mommy doesn’t want you saying such things, remember?”
“Mommy isn’t here.”
“Come on boys!” A voice of another yelled though he did not see him.
“Coming!” Two voices called, and the two who had spoken went running away. But the third one – the red one – he stayed. If but for a few moments, gripping onto the bars like the blue one had and leaning closer.
“Hey there… You alright?”
Terra’s ears perked up, before he slowly lifted his head. And, thought he wasn’t sure why he cared what this little blonde pixie thought of him, he smiled, his jaw dropping and tongue lolling out in an adorable expression that made the boy hold his mouth and giggle. And then another call drew him away this time and he was gone and Terra hid his head in his paws when his mother growled at him, tucking his tail underneath him so she couldn’t see it wagging. And then, when his father came home and found out, he enlightened Terra of exactly who Blessed were and the young pup hung his head in shame as he learned the awful, ugly truth. They were no one to be empathetic with. They were the ones who sentenced them to this hellish life. Were the ones to decree such awful pains on himself and his family and all those he cared about.

And he would never forgive them.


Sora still remembered the first day his father told him the story.
The Story of the Fountain Guardians.

They were known by a dozen other names too – each unique and special and, sadly, lost to the dust of history.

Therefore, even still now, they are known simply as Fountain Guardians. No one actually knew, for certain, if actual beings lived within these fountains – or what they might look like. Though one thing all Shee knew that they were built upon the great keys; weapons of incredible power and magical properties. Then again, that too had been questioned. Really, the fountains were ‘all just kid stories’. Things to tell the young Shee before bedtime to fill their dreams with wonder and magic.

But it wasn’t just any story that fascinated Sora – it was one in particular. Each fountain had its own special story to it – in fact most had several. Except, of course, for the center fountain which everyone knew was created by the sacrifice of the first black and white winged Shee. That center fountain, now the center of their world, was said to hold within the magic to allow Shee to live among each other and to uphold their peace and inner Balance.

But, though he respected that fountain and the ancient magic it held, that was not the story his father first told him – even if that was traditional. No, instead, one late night when Soran was found restlessly wandering their vast home by his father, working late yet again on some council meeting and just returning, he brought his son to the kitchen for a warm drink to help him sleep and told him about the Fountain of Twilight, that holds power over the crescent moon and ocean.

In his dad’s version, it was said that this fountain, built closest to the river just beyond the city walls, guarded the stars and the invisible sea. Norn had no ocean, so at first, Sora thought this was strange – but his father explained that all water flowed to the ocean and, whether Norn had one or not, the river was flowing away from Norn, journeying somewhere far and wonderful. It made sense at that young age and, when Sora shut his eyes, he could almost imagine it. Just like the pictures of Latium’s fancy books, a nice beach, beautiful seashells, rolling waves. The river, giving to the ocean, a never-ending supply of water.

As for the moon, that was tied into the ocean – but , as if only guided the crescent moon, the fountain’s power often translated to ‘the guide of the gently, rolling waves’. That often lead to the belief that this fountain held power over time or, the purpose of his father telling him this story in the first place, a good night of restful sleep.

And, after telling of its purpose, despite the late hour, Jet bundled up his son into his arms and flew him out to see the fountain. He sat his son down on the edge of the fountain, and pointed up where the water was spouting at the top. And, looking up at it in the dark of the night, Sora smiled, knowing why it was called the Twilight fountain. Because, with the darkness all around, and only in the faint light of the night sky, the water spouting from the top caught it just perfectly, looking rather wondrous – as if the fountain was shooting up silver stars, little falling meteors, an endless supply for the velvet canvas of sky when sun falls.

It was something Sora knew he’d never forget.

There, his father finished the fairytale. Of course, being a dad, he first made sure that his boy was keeping up with his history.
“Now, you remember how the humans of this world and the Shee came together, correct?”
“Ummm…” Sora concentrated very hard, his eyes crossing some as he thought. Latium hadn’t taught it that long, had he? “It had to do with Connection 1 and 2… and they went uhhh…” He shrugged and slapped his hands together, because that IS what Latium had done to emphasize his point but he could not remember what he was emphasizing anymore.
Jet chuckled in amusement. “Well, yes. Unforeseeably, these two connections collided – drawn together by the space of a black hole. If it was not because of Isis’, a black-winged Shee, destructive prophecy we would not have gotten there in time. The smaller worlds did not survive – or rather they could not be allowed to survive as their tiny mass could not withstand the gravity of the larger planets. They were being drawn in and would have collided – so we had to evacuate the people and animals from these worlds and destroy the planets before they could do disorderly harm. We took all we saved back to Norn. Before we could find placement for them, human nature took its course and they resettled here. Rather than uprooting them yet again, the King of the time, King Edmus, decreed we would live together in harmony as they did no harm to our Balance. In fact in many ways, they have made it immensely stronger. And it has been like that ever since.”

Sora nodded in understanding – though he was sure to forget it all by morning.

“But life was not always easy for those who lived here.” That was where the story really started. His father explained of an elderly mother who once upon a time lived upon an island-like world that was nothing but ocean all around. It was a world of arrival – one in which those went to when their own homes were destroyed. All connections had them – and many millennia ago Connection 1 had three – Twilight Town, Traverse Town, and Destiny Islands. Sora needn’t ask which one his father obviously meant. Now it only had one – Twilight Town, which still bravely stood, having able to withstand the destruction around it thanks to its nature of being in the corner of that galaxy.

This mother, who had been from that world, came to this fountain because her feet were poor from long harsh years of life and she could not make it to any other. The Shee who lived here though always spoke highly of any fountain, and though she could not make it to the center of town, every evening she would come to this fountain, knowing it was at its strongest just after the sun had fallen. And she would bow to this fountain and pray.

Not for herself, but for her young son. Ever since they had lost their home, he could not sleep, the sound of the waves once his rocking crib and now mournfully misplaced. His restlessness only increased day after day, until he grew so ill she knew he was reaching the end of his life. She would have asked for a relocation – but she knew her frail body would never make the move and would leave her son orphaned. Yet, how could she not, with her son dying instead? So, she begged the fountain, pleaded for help. Every day for a month, she went down to the fountain. “Please, o great spirits, here my plea! My son is sick. He deserves his life more than I. If you let him live, he will live a long and fortunate life, being true to this world and helpful to its people, forever holding its balance.”

For thirty days she made this plea, until her voice was hoarse and her feet blistered. On that last day, the fountain spoke back to her, telling her to bring the boy back to it tomorrow evening. And so, with hope in her heart, she did. She bundled up her dear son tightly, and brought him to the fountain, the young child barely able to walk and his small frame wracked with each tiny cough. The fountain spoke to them both, telling the boy to get into the water. Such a thing was normally forbidden – by humans, Shee and monsters alike.

But this time, a boy entered the water, sitting down. The fountain read his heart and found him to be worthy of saving. It then told him to hold his head under the spout, so that his hair would get wet. He did so. And in front of his mother’s wide eyes, his hair turned the color of the moon. Next, the fountain told him to be fearless and face the running water with eyes wide open. And he did. Again his mother gasped, watching her son’s irises change to a beautiful, Destiny Island blue. And then the boy fell back but his mother caught him.
“Mother… I can hear it. The o...cean…” The boy fell silent because he was finally asleep.

The mother lifted her son from the water and the fountain spoke one last time, telling her she no longer had anything to fear. Her son would live a long, full life. But in return for this gift, he would one day have to give it back. Not fully understanding, the mother promised he would and took her son away and back to bed.

“And decades passed and soon the boy grew into a man. A man worthy of respect as he held his peers in high regard, helped all in need, cared for all those less fortunate, and never forgot any close to his heart. Some say he was as selfless as a white-wing and that his brilliant hair marked the best upbringing, strength and power of a silver wing. But, when his best years passed and he was old and elderly and almost forgotten by all because he, like his mother, was frail and weak and could no longer help even himself, he made the long trek his mother had for over a month, realizing how painful it must have been for her. He approached the fountain and said, ‘I am here now. I have heard your call. I am ready to repay my debt and endless gratitude with my service’.”
“And then?” The young boy asked with a wide yawn.
“And then some say nothing was left behind of him but the cane he always used to help him walk with for he no longer needed it. He has joined Twilight to guard the ocean and crescent moon.”
And as his father picked him up and flew him home, Sora fell asleep in his arms, dreaming of flying with those twilit stars and towards the ocean. And with him was Twilight, a mere boy just his age, flying or maybe floating alongside him. He didn’t precisely remember what he looked like, other than that moonshine hair and ocean eyes, but he did know that warmth he felt with him at his side.

His first friend.


Roxas still remembered the first day he saw them.
The Monsters.

By his kind, they were best known as Renki; this derogatory, sarcastic, insulting name – but, Latium always told them in their homework to call them by their scientifically correct name: Atterians.

He did, but only in his homework – and only around his parents as well. But when he was studying under Volken, or in the company of the King’s fellows, he used the word as freely as they did when speaking of those horrible beasts who were rumored to care so little of their own kind, they actually make a sport of it to chase their own children down and kill them. Were so bestial their ‘marriage’, if one could call it that, was done by scarring one another and drinking the blood of the wounds! Were said to have such a thirst for power, that they snuck their claws into any living creatures they could get near enough to and sucked away their life and power, leaving them for dead – and, terribly, could do the same to the Heart of a world. Of course, some of it was just rumors, to scare the human children so they didn’t get any wild ideas of bugging these very dangerous slaves.

Even though he was young he was not foolish, and even behind those cages, he could see just how big those teeth were. Had they been able to get out, just one snap would have taken his and his brother’s heads clean off. Or, as they preferred, they would have gone straight to tearing out their wings. Volken always said to never turn your back on them, because if they have a chance to strike you down, they will. Of course, in that unsettling place, a monster barn, it was impossible not to show your back to some of them as cages lined either side – and even some were up in the air, hanging, where the griffin-like creatures slumbered. There were so many, they looked a little cramped but Roxas felt no sympathy for them. They deserved it – deserved to rot for all the pain and destruction they had caused.

Before the great clash of connections, Shee and Atterians had always been enemies, the former always trying to just live in harmony with the universe, while the others were power-sucking creatures of darkness. They were greedy and ruthless, taking all they could just for glory. They were obsessed with their individual pride, so much so they stomped on everyone else in their way.

But, shortly after the humans joined their realm, the Shee, forever giving and kind, found out that the Atterian’s home world, Atteris, which had once been a part of Connection 2 and was now in limbo between connections, was not fairing well with the change. The weather had drastically changed from deep, arid desert temperatures to frigid, icy snow climates. Already, half of the beasts had died, grown sick from lack of food, water, and shelter. Their homes, made of nothing but rock, cracked from the ice and started to come down, leaving them with little shelter as well. And the Shee saw their plight and despite their differences and instant hatred of one another, they reached out a helping hand.

They allowed the Atterians to come and live on Norn. The few Atterians who could speak their tongue, which was admittedly very few as it was said only the most powerful or best of blood could do, promised that they would do no harm to them or the inhabitants on exchange for this kindness and aid.

The humans did not seem to mind the extra crowd – most even welcomed those suffering into their homes and the young children even treated most of the recovering beasts like… like pets!! But it was soon to be revealed as a mistake, as once they were strong enough, almost at once like a great movement, the Atterians attacked those who had taken them in. Killed them without even a flicker of remorse in their eyes an soon the blood of human and Shee alike became to drench the streets of Norn. A war raged for a time. Many died. There was much suffering and pain.

Until a Shee with balanced wings came down and decided enough was enough. He called forth the great Keyblade and struck the Atterians down with only one blow and decreed for their deceit and betrayal they would learn a life of suffering ten times as great. All their power was stripped away from them and that was how they came to be the lowest of the low. But Roxas thought this was not satisfactory enough. It was as foolish as the decision before it – only wrapped in a blanket of false security as if they were truly powerless. But their muscles were great – so strong only two were needed to pull the five person royal carriages, and only four lug around the much heavier sixteen-person carriages of the middle-class. Their teeth were also razor sharp – he had seen one, a nervous lioness who was pulling her first royal carriage, need only one snap of teeth to bite right through her harness and take off, having to be chased down by her owner. Even the little monsters, like that one wrapped like a mummy, could take a finger off if he wished too.

He tried to tell Volken as much, that they should not allow such dangerous creatures to live among them any longer, but the man just chuckled and pat him on the head. He explained it off as such a thing could not be done as they were… ‘assets to the community’. But Roxas did not think this to be true either. If they had lived without them once, they could do it again – all of them have just grown lazy!

But his voice was too small and he too short for any to listen to him, no matter how outstanding the color of his wings were.

And even at dinner he went unheard.
“Well, you work with the council Jet! Get them to reconsider!” His mother was arguing over dinner. “Atterians deserve a voice like everyone else. A trial, just as any human or Shee does, when they do something that puts them at the belief of guilt.”
“If you ask me, we should just throw them all to the slaughter.” Roxas grumbled, but not quietly enough.
“Roxas!!” Now his mother Runa was usually a very beautiful woman, but her anger always made her look ugly – especially when directed at him. She always gave him this look like he was her greatest disappointment.
“I am just saying!” Roxas said, his wings trembling. “We shouldn’t live with traitors!”
“I have heard about enough of your back sass Roxas!”
“Listen to your mother Roxas, or you will be going to your room without the rest of your supper.”
Roxas glowered, but went back to his dinner in silence, ignoring the looks of worry his brothers gave him from over their own plates.
Unheard indeed.

But he knew one day he would be greater than this life. One day he would always be taken seriously and his words obeyed without a thought of a question.

The day he was king.

[Rikugurl]

Braig would never forget the day he was given his new name.
And a new life.

He was the second son of Kalahari and Rhea Tellus. Their first - Eraqus - had not survived his 'surgery'. He was but a toddler when his elder brother turned from the torture that was laid upon him. Even he was marked and scared to make his brother change and when he did, he was something glorious. Something that he could no longer remember over the years but it had made his father's proud just to see that moment of power before it was literally ripped away. When he returned, he was like the rest; weak, unresponsive and limp. Like all mothers, his nurtured her deformed child but as the days continued, turning into weeks and his health did not change, he was taken away from them and never returned.

He was certainly shot or made into stew as they all knew the result of a weak Atterian pup or cub. He was next to change, next to be brutally beaten and tortured and even still, it took him months to lose the ability to store his rage. He turned, becoming a black panther with ram horns curling around his fluffy ears and an Ankylosaurus tail that could have swung just once and freed them all. But he was like the rest who were taken by a new horn and pulled into the slaughter house. His horns were ripped out and his scull shaven down to he roots and his tail brutally chopped off with a bloody ax. His sharp teeth were left alone though, his 'masters' already knowing they would fall out and when they did, the new ones would be filed down.

He was thrown back to his mother's care and was strong enough to regain his strength and pride. Unlike with his elder brother, his care was cut short because it was mating season by now and his parents were taken to the sheds. With his parents gone, he was taken from his safe place and put to work at the age of four. Though the tasks weren't tedious, only carrying gallons of water from the river to the well, they were to train his mouth muscles to be able to lug and cart things. The royal cart apparently needed more pullers. He did not see his newly born brother until he had changed and was deformed like the rest. He too was a large cat and now had a permanent limp, making him more valuable in the eyes of the two-legged.

At night, they would all sit and clean themselves and each other from their 'meal' that their 'masters' slopped down for them. They had once been able to hunt for their own food but a 'law' was passed that they could no longer, wanting to cripple them more and somehow forget what it was like to kill. That theory was one of the stupidest these 'blessed' creatures came up with. It wasn't instinct, it wasn't taught, it was the power that drove them. He would speak to his brother of the glorious visions he would see in his dreams of them all ripping the Heart from this world and they would be set free at last. The ground they walked on pulsed with the power that only they could feel. Even the 'blessed' didn't know the true power that laid under the layers of rock and dirt.

These words made his family proud, speaking that he had the dreams of the past and maybe one day, he would be able to start a rebellion and break the curse of the Keyblade that took away their powers. Powers. That was right. Atterians were not only strong, not only shape shifters who had natural weapons, but they were also born with magical powers. They were known to suck the life from Hearts of worlds and obviously needed more than just brains and brawns to do so. Their father also spoke of the powers they once had. Some had powers over the earth, other able to breath a poisonous fume. They could make quicksand or disappear under the dirt. Some had other powers that had nothing do with the earth but instead were able to manipulate. They could make mirages, control ones mind or even defy gravity. It was said that the Atterians of the Tellus family were so strong, they had multiple powers.

As he grew older, he became wiser as while others of his age and younger were readying for their first mating season, he and his brother were becoming more rebellious. They would run from their tasks and make a ruckus, opening gates for sheep and goats to run free and make holes in the chicken coops so when they were brought in for the night, they would only go out through the other side. They also ripped up clothing that were out to dry or rip them down only to defecate and/or piss on them. Many of the elders though their antics were childish and shameful but to them, it was only the beginning.

Or so they thought. His brother was caught one day and that was the last time he saw him, only hearing that he had been put in the mating sheds. He thought it was such a disgrace that he escaped one day and headed towards the low life section of the farm and torn down one of the sheds, completely interrupting a male mounting. A fight broke out between him and the other and with the smell of the female in heat so close by, one of them didn't make it out alive. Braig was found with fox's ripped off leg in his mouth by the time his 'masters' came. He was shocked repeatedly and a magical band was wrapped around his neck, zapping him of his strength and he fell, blacking out instantly.

When he awoke, he found himself in another cage. It was like any other he had be kept in except for the minor fact that it was moving. He stood slowly and tore a piece of cloth that was covering it to peer out and saw what looked to be a countryside. They were moving him. No, that wasn't right. He was being transported to the death mine. That wasn't right either as only elderly or weak adults were brought to work to their last living breath. This could only mean that he was sold. His golden eyes turned to look around, picking up any other clues but all he knew was that he wasn't headed to the palace.

It seemed like days, maybe even a week before he was fed, being so hungry that he ate so fast he vomited his food up only to eat it again. He was given clean water and a brave soul stuck their hands into his cage to run a brush through his fur, taking out clumps of blackness at a time since this was the first time anyone had groomed him. He was confused about this treatment and if he wasn't restrained, would have fought against it. He quickly found out why he was suddenly being pampered as the door to his cage opened and he was pulled out by his collar after a few tries.

It was instant. This place was far from the palace and the power here was richer. The earth under his paws was moist and he sunk some, feeling water tickle his pads. He was in a wetland. The sound of two two-leggeds marching through the wet soil made him glance up and saw a man with blue hair looking down at him. By his side was a young boy that mocked his image, an obvious kin. "So you are the trouble maker from Numees Breedery."
The two-legged who spoke asked another his name and it was revealed that a 'translator' had found his name to be Braig.
"Braig is it? Well that simply will not do. Here on my farm, we deliver the fresh water of Norn to the kingdom and all the workers here are protected under the Balance. You will need to honor it like the rest by praising the Atalanta. From now on, your name will be.... Xigbar."

With his new name and new home, the chains were handed over to his new 'master' and he was lead away, hearing the cart behind him being pulled back to the hell. What did this place have in store? As he was led to his knew shelter, golden eyes swept across the landscape to see were the barriers were. He didn't see any which meant it could be a possibly quick escape but what he did see was a toddler playing by a small body of water and in her arms, a handmade toy of a long monster. Her laughter filled his ears and for a moment, he wondered if she was a siren as her voice made him suddenly calm.

The view of the child was interrupted as his new 'master's kin blocked his line of sight. It was then that he could almost taste it; the power radiating off the young boy. His golden eyes rolled to look up at the boy and saw blue eyes looking back with utmost hate and strangely enough, he bared fangs of his own. The doors were opened and he was pushed inside, hearing growls of the other brethren. He could easily tell they were all males when the door closed and the new smell of each one filled his nose. He wondered why they were all resting as the sun still had some hours left in the sky. He did not complain as he found a place on the straw to sit, which was strangely easy in the larger shed he was not accustomed to. His eyes slowly closed but his round ears moved, listening for that cub's laughter.


Jet would never forget when a light was shed upon his darkened life.
By the Trinity.

It had all happened so fast. Things were becoming better but faster than it could be built, it was suddenly destroyed when it took a turn for the worst. Norn had become a terrible place to live. It was once a glorious world that was based on the Balance of nature, peace and understanding. Now it rocked in the balance of slavery and good deeds. It was unstable, sickening and unlike anyone else, the young prince could see the physical affects it gave to the Shee. Yes, Shee. Jet did not believe in this nonsense of being 'blesséd'. They were far from being blessed in his opinion. They had the weight of the universes on their shoulders and they had created a horrible pail to keep it on.

Even though his father, King Sorias, told him that things would begin to balance out, he never did a thing to make it so. He promised himself that when he was king, things would be different. Shee, humans and, and, and, Atterians will not live this life anymore. That was his plan, his dream, his goal until his father suddenly died without cause one autumn morning. A maid had found him laying in his bed, dead. There was a royal funeral which included many tears except those of one. His father's wife, Diliza. Her darkened eyes mocked her black, thick wings as she watched her late husband lower into the six foot grave on the royal mountainside.

She did not morn long, or if ever, as in the middle of winter, a new king was crowned. His mother had remarried to the current leader of the Shee (or Blessed) army, Volken. A venomous snake would be more pleasant to speak to than him and after a few months, he and his mother already broke an age old rule. It was stated that no two Shee were to have more than one child until twins were born. It was to keep world safe as too many Shee would destroy the Balance. But his half-brother was born in spring and though it was against their law, his birth was celebrated. Prince Dyre.

Rumors always grew like vines and weeds in the castle but the ones that sprouted after Dyre's birth had thorns. Jet had locked himself away in his room and word spread that he was bitter because there would now be a question as who the next King would be. Jet was obviously jealous. Even if that were true, the young blue and silver winged Shee wasn't jealous of who would get the crown but because his new brother was loved by his mother. When he was born, his mother actually refused to see him. If it wasn't for his faithful, cheerful friend, Gin, a silver wing, Jet would have spiraled down into the Darkness himself.

They tried to pass the time around the kingdom though the very sights Jet saw hurt his heart, seeing Atterians being whipped and treated so poorly as humans barely gave him a thought. He once learned by his master, Latium, that a long time ago, when royalty walked through the streets, all Shee would bow in respect. Jet didn't think that was necessary but at least it showed respect which was far from what he ever saw. What he did see one day was the most beautiful Shee he had ever laid eyes upon. It was when he was headed back to the palace when she appeared from one of the many portals and as she pulled her cloaked hood from her head, stunning golden locks fell over her chest and hair.

He was nervous when he first approached her but she found it adoring and little to no time after that, they would spend all their free time together, talking about ways to change this world for the better. What he liked the most about her was she believe the Atterians had rights like everyone else and even though in the past, they had been wrong, there had to be a way to let them have some freedom. Years past and the Balance continued to sway as if it was on a string. Except for one day when the power shifted and the Atalanta on top of the fountain before the palace doors shined bright. It was a wedding, the union of Lady Runa and Prince Jet. By now, the rumors were dead and gone as Prince Dyre had taken his title as the Royal Messenger so as the two married, they cheered for the future King and Queen.

The Balance started to sway again when a months passed and news spread through the kingdom that the princess was pregnant. With twins! Twins were the best of luck! They symbolized an amazing sense of balance within a woman. Nine months of after the slight morning sickness, the mood swings, the unstable appetites, it all ended. He was called from a meeting by a guard in whom he hurried after. Runa was giving birth! He quickly headed to the nursery where he was once born and saw her on the table, her hair already wet with sweat and her face red from pain. "Runa!" He called as he came to her side and took her hand squeezing it tightly. He witnessed his first born, one with a happy crying and honest blue eyes and wings. Nearly ten minutes later, she gave birth to the second one, this one having a loud voice, fire red wings and blue eyes like his twin.

He smiled happily, seeing how healthy they were and was about to check on then when his wrist was grabbed and she cried out 'Another one!'. "Ut!" He blinked in confusion, thinking she was sick. Triplets? Only humans--- His thought was interrupted as the midwife told her to push once more and his eyes widened when a third was pushed through. He had a quiet tone to his cries, and looked almost identical to his second-born brother. Yet, the most stunning thing was what was upon his back.

Black and white wings!

The three boys, the only triplets ever in Shee history, were known at the Trinity and though it was a glorious event, Jet knew that this would be the last time him and his step-father would ever see eye to eye. Though they saw very little, they would be blind in their views. It was the morning after that Jet felt the Balance like it should have been everyday when he walked into the new nursery and saw his wife, sitting in a plush chair with one foot moving a lever up and down to rock a crib while two babies nursed at her breasts. She allowed him in and as he walked over, his smiled grew, coming around the back of his lover to look down over her, seeing the little mouths of his children moving against their mother's nipple for milk. "Runa..." He whispered as his hand reached down, running it softly over the thin blonde hairs of his sons. "They're beautiful."

He could see their eyes move to look up at him and he smiled brighter, not truly believing his own eyes. This moment was perfect, peaceful, and how it should have been forever. But little did they know, a poison from the palace would seep into one of the Trinity boys, tainting him at a young age.


Ventus would never forget when he learned some things are not written in books.
Like blue eyed Atterians.

"I want you to all raise one your hands." Their teacher, Sir Latium instructed as a table was sitting before him with the Trinity sitting behind it attentively. They were still young and curious, glancing at each other before they all rose a single hand.
"You will be swearing an oath of secrecy about what I will tell you today. Do you promise that you will not share this information with the humans?"
"We do." They said together, before giggling as it sounded funny. Their teacher chuckled but straightened, finding some obedience in himself before pacing in front of them.

"Today, you will---"
"Sir Latium?" The red winged boy interupted but the man was quite use to that by now. "Yes, Prince Ventus?"
"Can we put our hand down now?"
"Oh! Y-yes, yes!"
The boys giggled again as they dropped their hand but snapped back into attention when their teacher cleared his throat.
"Today, you will learn a secret about the Atterians that live among us."
The boys quickly swallowed, their quills being dipped in their ink and ready to write for their studies.
"Atterians are actually shapeshifters. Meaning they can change their appearance. Only breeders know this secret and it became a secret when the great Keyblade took away their powers and it was ruled they were never to change again except when an Atterian is born. Now, you may asked yourself: What do they turn into? Well... they are actually able to take the shape of a human."

Quills wrote quickly in their journal, their penmanship not all too graceful just yet and sloppy as they were more intrigued about this new knowledge.
"Now before you ask, do not fear if you worry about mistaking a changed Atterian from a human. Due to the fact that they are forbidden to change, their body can no longer change fully. They will still have their beastly tails, ears and other accessories that will mark them obviously. However, once upon a time, there was hardly a thing that was different about a changed Atterian and Human appearance. There was a trick though to tell them apart. You see, and make sure you make a star next to this note, all Atterians have either gold.....red.......brown or black eyes. Though humans are known to have brown and black eyes, other features will give them away. For instance, many have pointed tipped ears even if their beast form have round ears, like the feline Atterians."

A hand rose and the blonde twins looked at their brunette brother. "But don't elves have tipped ears?" He asked.
"Very good question, Soran but do elves live on this world?"
Soran became bashful and blushed, lowering his head some in shame but his middle brother backed him up quickly. "Yes but don't was also travel to other worlds? What if one wasn't taken in by Norn and is living in an elf population?"
"Hmmm.... well then, elves have longer ears while Atterians are much like human's, only pointer at the top."
Ventus looked at his shamed brother and smiled before quickly writing the notes.

Nearly a year later, blue eyes scanned the notes and with a lick of his thumb and a swipe on the page, a line was erased. The line that read:
*Atterian eyes: Gold, red, black & brown.
He had seen blue eyes and no just on a young wolf Atterian but on his mother's face too. His brothers did not seem to notice this miraculous flaw. That Atterian's eyes were the same color as their own.

He turned the pages, finding a later entry of his notes and found what he was looking for as large letters at the top of the page read:

Makatza

It was where the Wood turned into a tropical forest, nearly a moon phase away. This was where the black wings dwell when they are fed up with the kingdom's laws. The sun is more hot down there, they say. Life there is free of rules and regulations of the ancient Shee, but made new ones where any Shee can do and be as they pleased. A new sort of Balance that wasn't so temperamental. There were only two ancient fountains here, making it easier to maintain their balance without creating too much trouble.

This place was not just freedom to the black wings, it was freedom for all living things. Including Atterians. The royal Shee of this world did not rule that part of the land so Atterians would no longer be slaves. But all of this was just a rumor. No one had ever gone to 'Makatza' and returned to tell about it. Was it because there was actually something dangerous there, teaching foolish Shee and unwanted wings a lesson by killing them? Or was it a whole new peace in which one never wanted to return to the ways of order. Or anymore, the lack there of.

"VENTUS! DINNER IS SERVED!"

The young Shee closed his book and hurried from his room, going to the grand dinning room to eat with his family. As he ate, the normal conversation arose between his mother and father. They had talked about this idea of theirs; to let an Atterian have a hearing instead of being slaughtered on sight. He agreed with this idea, thinking it was just and fair but his identical twin was bolted against it. When he was silenced for the numerous time, the brothers eyes cast upon him, seeing with their own eyes, the colors in their brother's wings changing.

Wing colors do not change drastically. All Shee born with mixed colors will have a dominate and non-dominant color. The non-dominant my change slightly in color, shape and size. Once a Shee reaches puberty, their wing color will stop changing and stay that design and color for the rest of their days.

Books were beautiful to look at but how could their lies be so permanently?

[Reno]

The sun glared down from above, making unnatural blue eyes squint as he stepped out of the barn with the others, his paws feeling the grit of hard-packed dirt under his paws once more. This young pup had just barely recovered, and already he was being set to work with the others. Everything was so new to him. The sights, the sounds. He could pick up the noise of the river even though it was far off, and the sounds of the birds in the trees that made his mouth salivate and his limbs tremble at the idea of a hunt.

Even though he did not know how to hunt - and he would never get to learn. It was forbidden, by the two-leggeds of course.

His ears perked and he tilted his head, murmuring softly, "Can't I come with you dad?"
"Shhh." There was a gentle call before a tender lick on his head. "No you can't. You're not strong enough yet."
Pointed ears drooped some in sadness - he hardly ever got to see his dad; he was always worked so hard! - but he perked up some when his mother nuzzled him. At least he got to be with her. It was doing 'woman's work' but he knew better than to complain. So they separated, like trained horses, his father going with the sterile females and other males to the fields of the farm. They were countryside animals, which, unbeknown to him so far, is what his uncle still was today.

He knew he had relatives. A Grandpa and Grandma and two uncles, most of them long deceased. His father told him that it was highly unlikely he would ever see his uncle; but as long as they were all good and well-behaved they would not be split apart.

So Terra, being a good 'dog', followed the young humans to the staples were the non-Atterian animals were. Because he had no limp, and was fast even for his young age, he was being taught to herd sheep. His mother was a milker, bringing pails to humans and then carrying them out with milk to the women who would package them in bottles. His father explained to him he was a 'plower' in which some sort of... straps were harnessed around his body along with other Atterians and they had to pull this along the field. Their jobs, as well, changed by season. His mother explained apple-picking and his father told him about crop gathering. No one knew where he would be during harvest season.

He didn't understand why these things were important quite yet, not knowing that farm life was the life the rest of Norn lived off of and, if they wanted to provide a whole world with non-processed food, had to work their 'animals' to death.

Literally sometimes.

"Tch! Come on wolf!" His mother gave him a nudge and he snapped from his thoughts, realizing one of the elder children of the farm was calling him. That was the most difficult part thus far. They certainly never used his name - oh how simple it would be if they did! But he knew his name - Hiroki Edlyn. He held his tail proud as he walked over, showing this boy no respect at all.
"Stupid dog."
He hoped this kid got trampled by a horse.


Scratching on parchment could be heard in the room, blue eyes focused on his little 'journal' as he recorded yet another fascinating tale.
Tonight Twilight was teaching me how to swim. It was pretty scary, but I know he wouldn't let the water hurt me. He th-
The book was suddenly snatched out of his had, leaving a dark black slash along the paper as the pen was so near, smearing ink down the pure page. "HEY!" The blue-eyed Shee cried seeing his brother standing their with a devious grin on his face as he waved the book at him.
"Still writing fairytales down?"
"Give it back!"
"You gonna have to catch me first." And then Roxas was gone, nearly flying out the door.
"ROXAAAAAAAAAAS!" Came a wail of a voice, the brunette leaping up and bounding after the other, screaming all the way: "GIVE IT BAAAAAAAAACK!!"
"Sora's got a diary!!" Roxas yelled back his taunts, their shouting and fighting loud. Until...

"BOYS, BOYS!" Both of them almost ran into the red-winged woman, his size impressive when they were so small. She gripped them both, taking one look at her sniffling, snot-covered eldest's face before glaring at Roxas. The younger flinched.
"Now what is going on?"
"Nooothing-"
"Roxas is being means! He stole my journal!"
"Mom he's writing a diary! That's such a girl thing!" The other argued but he deflated quickly when he noticed his mother's arms crossing and her face unamused.

[Rikugurl]

Unfortunately for the Tellus member who had been sold away, his job was not to frolic outside like he was once use to. He, like his brother, pulled the plows in the summer while the females and humans dropped the seeds. He had always wanted to plant because he would make sure to mess up their arrangements; putting their pumpkins where the corn should be and the peas with the cucumbers. He quickly learned this place was different. Unlike the low class humans who were brutal and uncaring, this family was middle class, though still poor, and they served the palace personally.

The other thing different about this place was the magic. These humans were from a world where there was plenty of it and the fear, unlike before where whips, chains and shock treatment were expected, was the unknown. What would happen to them if they misbehaved? He was certain it had to do something with the boy whose body poured of power.

His new job was inside a large mill that had a crank. This crank was pushed by him and the other Atterians here which pushed the mill wheel and transferred fresh water from the river to the inside chamber. This chamber split into several pipes which were called aqueducts. These aqueducts would run through the ground and carry the fresh water all the way to the palace and sprout from the fountains, giving the citizens forever flowing water. The rivers were protected by magic to make sure they were never tainted and though the humans were reluctant, they made the Atterians fix any problems that might happen to the aqueducts. Because the water was protected by magic, they couldn't allow any fish get through the gates. This apparently was the job of the family; to fish. And of course, that meant every night, he and his brethren would have fish leftovers. Disgustingly delicious.

His muzzle was stuck deep into mud, his jaws around something stuck in one of the gates. He pulled and yanked on it until suddenly it budged and he fell back. There was a huff and a snort, trying to clear his nostrils of the cold earth before tossing the object on the ground. An old fishing rod. Of course, he had to clean up there idiots' mistakes. He turned, about to head back to the mill when his golden eyes caught a hint of blue. It was the young girl again, playing around the river bend. Humans were very bad with watching their kin. Sure Atterians killed their own but it was only for their own good. He continued to walk off, shaking his head from her antics as she pulled up her dress and spun around. He knew what end result that would be. She would get dizzy and fall.

And fall!?

His ears perked in alarm and when he looked back, sure enough she was losing her balance and teetering at the edge of the bank. Large black paws sunk into the moist ground and he was off, like a blur of darkness. The girl spun and tried to gain control of her already tumbling body until she was suddenly tripped by something powerful. There was a cry of fear but to her surprise, she landed face first into something fluffy and warm. Xigbar had caught the human child on the side of his belly and only a foot away from the long fall below into the eight foot high watery grave.


Swoosh

Swoosh

Swoosh

A sword, held hilt first, swung back and forth in front of its owner.
"Ummm, prince? That's not how you fight with a sword."
"Is there really an 'official' way to hold a sword? As long as it does what it should and is efficient in doing so, it shouldn't matter how you hold it."
Blue swirled eyes watched as his wooden sword passed over him, casting a shadow over his face when it blocked the light of the moon. His mother was so smart, maybe smarter than Latium. She was a believer, like him, and she believed that wing type shouldn't determine what a Shee would be best at. His wings were red with a little orange. Already he was more of a philosopher than a fighter.

He, even at his young now, didn't believe everything was black and while like Latium taught, but there were shades of gray. Everything and anything was possible. Maybe that was what his red color was about. The passion of believing. His own room was filled with treasures his mother once held in hers from her travels to other worlds when she was a Speaker of Norn. He enjoyed and knew every piece. He knew the tales and stories, the superstitions and how they worked. He wanted to discover everything and find the truths to make the books wrong.

He swung his sword, having made it with Sora because his brother claimed Twilight showed him how, one last time before his eyes widened and it was dropped, making a loud clunking on the floor when he sat up. "A meteor shower!" He called in glee, looking out his large window and up towards the sky.


"Now, now..." A voice suddenly echoed and maids that were working in the large hallways bowed as a man slowly made his way to the family. His hair was an off brown, almost grey in color and his cloak was grand. Red wings glowed behind him, giving off sparks of light when he walked to show his power. He was King Volken and when he reached the family, he held out his hand, motioning princess Runa to place the diary in it. When she did, though reluctantly, he handed the book back to Sora. "Let dreamers dream..." His voice was cocky and dark, almost mocking. He patted the blue wing on the head, seeing the brunette spikes bounce before a wicked gaze turned onto another 'dreamer'; Runa.

However, when he looked down at Roxas, he smiled. "You should only trouble yourself with practical thinkers and practical things." A hand rested on the blonde's shoulder and he walked the boy away, as if he was too important to stay with his mother and brother. "I want to show you something."
They made their way to the thrown room and walked inside, feeling how empty and cold it was. It was once a bright and joyous room but it had been forgotten since Jet and Runa's wedding. They walked up to the larger throne and the king paused. "Roxas, I want you to sit at my throne." The boy was hesitant at first but made his way up the carpet and sat down in the chair. "Now tell me, how does it feel?"

[Reno]

One thing her father hated about her was she feared nothing. Aqua was a brave girl who, just a year ago, got lost outside in a thunderstorm. And while her family panicked and worried, she played in a little hollow of two split rocks, pretending she was on some grand adventure and the sound of each blast of thunder was the sound of a grand battle instead.

And she certainly didn't fear the help, despite countless warnings and rumorous tales. Sai was scarier than them! And she certainly wasn't frightful of him either.

But, as she played some silly game with herself, pulling up her dress in an unladylike fashion and spun in circles, imagining herself on some fanciful ride, she knew a taste of fear when she stumbled some, and got an eyeful of the quick-flowing ravine below. She could not swim yet and if the fall didn't kill her the water sweeping her away would.

A moment later, she yelled being twisted another way unexpectedly before she fell against a warm, fluffy body. She blinked some, before lifting her head seeing deep gold eyes of a panther looking back at her. "Did you save me?"
He said nothing, but his eyes seemed to hold more understanding to them then the average animal. It made her giggle and she reached up, too small to reach his head so she patted his nose. "Good kitty! A prince deserves a special honor!"
She tugged her fingers into his lips, showing no fear of the feeling of teeth against her fingers as she tugged, forcing his head down. The pain of it made him growl but he quickly followed her movements rather then let her stretch his face, and quieted instantly... when she gave him a gentle kiss on the top of his head.


Sora frowned, holding his book to his chest, not too young that he couldn't figure out when he was being teased even by an adult. His eyes glared at the retreating back of his king, before he looked up at his mother seeing a similar angry look on her own face. She was just like her wings told; very passionate.

"I don't like him." Sora declared boldly. Which was quite a feat, because he disliked very few things. Not even his brother, who teased him endlessly every day, did he ever dislike.

But he did NOT like Volken. Whenever he was around Roxas, he made him so much worse. What words was he filling his head with to make him so cruel?

"Neither do I." Runa sighed before picking up her boy and wiping off his face. What was she to do with Roxas? She had to speak with Jet. But first, she had to settle her eldest, who was often sensitive. Though, luckily, she did not see it becoming a fault later in his life, but an asset. He would care very much about others as he grew. "Come now. Would you like a cookie?"
"WOULD I!?"


He was so little compared to the grand throne, who seemed to disappear just sitting on it. His feet couldn't even touch the ground. And as he was asked the question, cool, calculating eyes swept over to him and he did his best to return the gaze as he answered, "It feels like I'm sitting in a chair."
Well, he DID just say to be practical and not be a dreamer, so what other answer did the King expect except a logical one?

[Rikugurl]

Prince?

His nose twitched when it was bonked by chubby little fingers, his ears shifting with the awkward situation. This was the first time he really interacted with a two-legged and if she were any older, she would know it was forbidden. It was also forbidden for an Atterian to touch, let alone trip a master. If he didn't, she would have already been dead by now but why had he even bother? She would grow up to be a master and like the rest, be ruthless and deadly. For all he knew, she could grow up and end up being his slay---

A rumble came from his throat when his black lips were suddenly yanked without care. He would have swiped her if he didn't know what was good for him but golden eyes widened when he felt it. A simple touch on the top of his furry head. He was silenced for a moment before another rumble came through his throat but this time, it wasn't a growl.... but a purr.
And then a snarl.
"GET AWAY FROM HER!" The sound of wooden shoes hitting the side of the panther's face was all too close to the young girl and she yelped, falling down on her butt into the mud.

A thin, long stick shot out and whipped the Atterian across the shoulder blades and again down the back, making lines of red in his black fur. The panther quickly got onto his four feet and looked up at fierce blue eyes. That boy.
"Get BACK to the mill!" He ordered and Xigbar was quick to follow, turning and heading back to the large structure. Every step he took pained him from the new wounds on his shoulder blades but it was nothing that would bother him in the morning. As he left, he could hear the young girl yelling at her sibling as he picked her up from the mud and carried her to the house. "Enough Aqua! He would eat you for a snack!"


A cookie was given for a snack, some milk poured into a bowl and the two shared a soft chat about how important diaries were. There was nothing wrong with having an imaginary friend, especially for a little royal prince. Though he had his brothers, their destinies would slowly split them apart. They would always be in his heart but---
She was cut off by her eldest son, telling her that Twilight was not imaginary. She could just smiled and nod, watching him finish his treat before escorting him to bed. There, she tucked him in and kissed him goodnight, closing the shades and lighting a candle before leaving the room, the door opened just a crack.

She headed off to her own room, knowing Ventus was asleep in his and Volken would make sure Roxas would get to his. When she came into the bedroom, she could she that her husband was already present, his frame pushed up against the balcony as he looked over the kingdom. His long brown hair danced in the cool night breeze, already feeling the autumn chill. When he heard the door close, he turned to face his beautiful wife but instead of the smile she had fallen in love with, his face looked worried. "Runa... we need to talk.... about Roxas."


"You seem sad." A young voice sounded concern over the sound of the ocean waves. White shoes with blue stripes padded down the sand to where a handmade wooden dock was. Wood creaked as it was stepped on and finally, the small body that the voice belong to sat down next to another. His little yellow shirt swayed in the evening wind as he took a deep breath, smelling the ocean. Spiraled eyes, almost the same color of the ocean that stretched before them, turned to look at the young boy next to him. "What's wrong, Sora?"


A smirk appeared on the king's face when he received his answer. The answer he was looking for. "Good. That's exactly what I felt when I sat there." The red wing walked up the carpet, slowly circling the two thrones. "All kings and queens of the past sat here, wasting their lives away. They believed that everything was well in the world. They dreamed everything would stay the same and the Balance would be forever. We can see that they were wrong. Roxas, I never sat in that chair and your grandmother never sat beside me. We are always standing, always moving, always thinking. We build maps, ride the countryside and rule our people. How can anyone do those things if they sit in a chair?"

He stopped besides the young blonde and gazed down at him. "Roxas... sooner than you think, you will be king of Norn. I know it must be difficult to believe because that is all your family does. Your brothers, your parents; all believers. Roxas, I didn't believe I was going to be the king. I knew it. You cannot just wait for things to happen. If you want something, if you know something, you have to reach out and grab it. You have the potential, Roxas. You are a practical boy and you will become a grand king. All you have to do is take what is rightfully yours and leave the dreamers to dream."

[Reno]

He was running. Aimlessly it seemed, the corn fields stretching far and far in the distance as he ran through the stalks, his powerful frame disappearing between them. Inside of them. It was a great feeling though, just enjoying the air whistling around him and the sounds of birds in the distance. He opening his mouth, able to better smell the world around him and breath in the crisp clear air.

And then he caught a scent that was unlike anything. Unlike the stalks of corn or the forest nearby or the cool, clear water. It has a musky, acidic, almost burning taste to it that made him cringe as he realized what it was.

Man.

His freedom suddenly ran out as he rushed out of the cornfield and saw a warped version of the barn, it seeming to be elongated and twisted in a horrific way as if it had become like dough, able to be stretched and twisted up. And then he saw him. Another, much like him though cattish in appearance, fierce red eyes and blood-colored teeth snarling as the sheep and even limping they were not able to escape the power, deadly swipes of his paws. Already five were dead in what seemed an instant - and excellent hearing picked up something he did not. The only thing that tipped him off to look was the pricking up of ears.

The click-clack of the hammer of a shotgun being pulled back, a man holding the deadly weapon. The leopard spun around and Terra finally saw who he was.

"DAD!!!"

BANG!!!

Blue eyes snapped opened as his cage was hit with a shovel, a blue-haired boy frowning at him before demanding he get up before heading down the line. His breath was choppy and quick for a few short moments, lost still in his dreams, but slowly he calmed, remembering where he was.

The farm. His father? Dead.

The reason?

He stood very slowly, stretching out the ache in his muscles that never seemed to go away, knowing it would only get worse as the tough season went on. They never seemed to have a break, and even panting and salivating in the hot summer sun never seemed to gain them sympathy from their masters.

He turned to face the reason, still guilty at the feeling that made him glad she was still hear, and licked his mother's pointed ear gently. "Mom? Come on mom, time to work." He murmured softly, too low for anyone else to pick up. He nuzzled her as she sleepily came awake, his tail wagging some at this slight chance of peace.

He was still a boy, working with the children and mothers when it happened. His mother had gotten ill that fall season and even though he was young, even he noticed she was not strong enough for the work. They refused to let her rest though. And out the pails came, dangling from her mouth.

He remembered sitting upon the hill, watching her instead of the sheep, when it happened. Suddenly, her precarious hold on one of the milk pails finally outdid her. It slipped from her teeth and spilled on the browned grass. She looked down at it for a long time before lowering her head and started to lap at it, the health of milk a promising one.

But even he knew this, too, was forbidden. And a human was not far behind spotting her treason. And they came with a whip. His ears perked in alarm as the first strike came down and he heard her cry and collapse. He started to race down the hill, full speed and snarling, only able to think: How dare they? HOW DARE THEY?!

But he was little then and the whip was powerful even on his healthy flank. One strike had him seeing stars, but a second had him doing something so instinctive, it could be heard for miles. He started to howl.

And help came.

Later he heard, from another Atterian, that it had been quite a sight. His father had bit right through his harness and came charging from the fields to the barn, no two legged fast enough to stop him. He remembered, seeing with a bit of malicious pride, as Hatori Tellus, running when no one said he could, came out of the corn and did as any Atterian would. He protected his kin from danger. The human was dead in seconds, neck snapped and throat torn up in an instant.

But, even Terra knew this was not something to celebrate. There were too many humans here to thing of escape and his mother too ill to run.
He remembered that last thing his father did as realization of his fate came upon him. He lent down, licking his mother's muzzle and speaking kind and beautiful things before repeating the action to him.
'Hide in the barn and protect your mother. I love you.' And then his father was gone, his limp suddenly more pronounced as old scars made it difficult to run and up and over the hill he went. From the safety of the barn, all he heard were the squeals and screeches of dying sheep before the gun shot and then all was silent except panicked baas. He hadn't seen the purpose of killing the livestock until that evening, when a plate of lamp was their dinner. They were all well-fed on the sheep he killed for days.

But more importantly, no one figured out it was simply an act of rabid behavior, rather than a father protecting his wife and his son. Had they discovered it, he and his mother... would of been separated forever.


Miles away, another door to the Atterian staples were opened, and animals quickly got to their feet, some tails even wagging as a slim woman walked in. She was a beautiful woman, with short blue-hair and careful curves, a strong heart-shaped face and long lashes. Still young, she was not fully developed yet, but she was nearing marrying age.
Unlike the poor farms, who got fed but once a day, the middle-class could get a little fatter on wealth. And this included their 'pets' as a woman hummed a tune, and slipped the food under the slots of their cages for them to eat. She had no fear of them and for that some of them respected her - or, if nothing else, tolerated her.

But no one more than her 'favorite' beast. She smiled as she reached the last cage in the line, gold eyes staring back at her. She set the bowl down and lent down, her eyes sparkling some. "So, guess what I snuck you from breakfast this morning? I bet you can already smell it~" The way she spoke it implied this probably happened often. In fact, it happened anytime she was in charge of cooking. And, seeing the way the panther licked his chops told her he definitely could smell his extra treated as she pulled out a little bag with four strips of bacon in it. She opened the bag and, ripping each in half, set it on top of his normal bowl of food and slipped it under the cage. When he came over and bent his head down to eat, she slipped her hand through, running her fingers along the smooth, short hairs of his head and scratched behind an ear, chuckling as he seemed to purr.

Even full-grown now, she had never forgotten his bravery and they seemed to have a special bond now. She did anything she could to make his life easier - short of letting him free.

But their time was cut short when his head perked up and whipped towards the barn and she took her cue to back off and stand, just as her brother appeared in the doorway. His gold eyes narrowed at her, as if expecting her treachery, but unable to ever catch her at it. Not since that first time at least...
"DOES HE LOOK LIKE HE'S HURTING ME DUM-DUM?!"

"Yes?" She asked curtly, annoyed at being supervised. "I'm doing my chores."


"Ahh no fair!" A teenager cried as he fell onto the sand of the beach, a dust cloud wafting up slightly around him. A poke on the top of his overly spiked brunette head of hair made him look up, seeing the amused look on Twilight's face. He pouted, "You always win the races."

Things had changed over the many years he had been here in this dreamland. It never seemed to bother him or even make him wonder to much. When his clothes changed to styles he'd never even seen or heard of, he didn't let it bother him and he only grew in wonder as the small island turned into two, and boats suddenly escaped on a dock not once built. As he grew, so did this world though there was never anyone else here but himself and this other boy who, too had grown with him.

His best friend.

But, he knew what it meant as the sky around them suddenly started to darken, and he smiled as the other only looked sad. He reached up, winking and holding out his pinky finger. "I'll see you tonight. It's a promise!" Just as they shook fingers, Sora awoke.

He sat up slowly, and yawned widely blue wings appearing on his back to stretch out and flutter some. He got up from the bed and crossed the space of his grand bedroom, tapping on a little cage where a hamster was running through it's wheel. "Morning Rupert~" He chirped, before continuing on his way and reaching up and pulling open the curtains. The dawn light spilled in instantly, and he saw the kingdom of Norn spread out before him. He pulled open the windows and stepped out onto the balcony, leaning his arms on the sill and breathing in the warm morning air, a content smile on his face even though he knew the day was sure to be long and trying as it always was. Being the future king of this world was no easy task but he had learned to accept it for it was what-
"Sora!"
His mother wanted.

"Hi mom," He greeted, "Didn't even hear you come in~"
Runa, her features more aged than they once were, smiled to her son as she stepped through his room and out on the balcony, giving an appreciative glance over his wings. Such a brilliant blue to show his peace, the swirls of yellow determining cheerfulness, and then the ever so light colors of silver - telling her he was also strong.
"We are perfectly in Balance Jet. Because I wanted to talk about Roxas too."
The decision was not an easy one. Whether Roxas believed it or not, it truly pained her to announce to him that... she was not going to allow him to be taught under Volken anymore. His wings had turned so black for so long, she was afraid barely any white would exist anymore on them... or in his heart.

But calmness and understanding seemed to have swept over him as he aged, and slowly the white color came back until it was almost balanced with the black. She knew he was now too old for the colors to change anymore, but she felt at ease, knowing her son would no longer be tempted by the greed of power.

And Sora she could not have been happier with as the new heir. Even learning under his grandparents, he had a wiseness beyond his years and his heart seemed almost untaintable.
She knew that wasn't true of course. The boy had his rebellious streaks just like her other boys and if anyone could get him to do something bad it would be Roxas or Ven. Those three could be unmanageable sometimes. But they were her pride and joy.

[Rikugurl]

"Mmmm...." The elder wolf moaned, almost pained as her own blue eyes fluttered open, her weakened body sluggishly moving on the straw littered floor. Her paws felt the cold floor as she managed to stand but her frame was still shaking. She was indeed still quite ill and with the lost of her mate, she had weakened tremendously. The only reason why she woke in the morning was for her son, who was still very much alive, healthy and needing her. To be an orphan in this hole would be the worst thing an Atterian would ever have to experience and she wasn't about to let Terra go through with it.

If she could help it.

"I'm coming..." She spoke softly and followed her son out into the field for another day of work. Like the slaves they were, they walked in a file towards the milking barns where the animals call cows and goats were being milked for the morning. It had rained hard that night so the ground was soft on their paws and rather slippery. She glanced around, seeing some other of the young pups and cubs making their first journey to the barns, seeing them slip and slide on the wet grass and mud. It would have been adorable if they were allowed to continue their play but she growled when she saw them being kicked back into line and their 'masters' yelling. "Behave!"

If she was paying attention to where she was going, she would have seen her demise much like her mate had. With each step, she brought herself closer to her mate and further from her kin until it was staring her in the face. A misjudgment in her footing. One that the others in front of her had seen and avoided, including her son. A hole, one dug from a night creature for fun or shelter from the rain, was covered in water, unseen to the eye if one was not paying attention. The mother wolf stepped down with her back leg right into the hole and from the suction from the mud and water, she could not pull it out quick enough to break her fall.

She howled in alarm, catching her son's attention quick enough to see her fall onto the ground, some water splashing around her but it did not drown out the sound of something loud cracking; breaking. "AAAAAAAAAAROOOOOOOOOOO!!!"
Ida Tellus cried in pain as her leg twisted. The sudden throbbing and sharp pain in her hip told her that she had broken her hip. Clawed paws scratched at the ground, trying to get up and trying to look strong before the two-legged came but even with her son grabbing the gruff of her neck in aid, a shadow loomed over her and her son was kicked away.

Rough hands grabbed her by the rear and pulled her from the hole before throwing her back onto the ground. "Restrain them!" She could hear the man call, some others holding the other Atterians back while his arm came to her leg. He grabbed it and yanked at it, making her howl again in agony and tears began to wet her fur. The pain didn't stop though as the man started to press down on various places of her leg before getting to her hip and one touch made her almost snap his neck off clean. He caught her jaws in his glove though and violently pushed her away. "Broken hip." The man announced, like announcing her death. He then wrapped a collar around her neck and dragged her from the line.

Her body was limp, eye wide and breath cut from the lack of oxygen as she was pulled away. Her tongue was even stick out, having lost feeling of it. Her blue eyes, as rare as the oasis back on Atteris, looked out, seeing her son's face.
"I love you... be brave my little one."


Six heads prompted up when the wooden door opened and all twelve eyes looked up, seeing the young 'master' enter the stable where they were sleeping. The smell of the food made their stomach growl and they all stood, coming close to where their trays were. There was a black bear in the front, almost smiling as she came over and place his portion on the tray. He was one that respected her, being on their farm longer than she was alive. Next was white tiger, his fur not so white as it was stained with dirt. He sat and waited for his meal, not giving her a second look as be started to eat. He tolerated her. Next in line was another bear, this one brown and grizzly. He too quickly started to eat what was placed before him, not overly interested in her.

The Atterian next in line was a smaller one, a bobcat to be exact who purred as she came close and quickly started chowing down, the little tail he had left wagging. The second to last cage had a lion, his mane oddly well maintained and even had flowered weeds in it. He too respected her, bowing his head some before he ate. At last was the black panther, whose golden eyes easily met the young woman's blue. He could smell pig on her and it wasn't from the tray she was holding. He couldn't help but lick his lips when she spoke to him, her voice still captivating him, making him feel like a cub again.

He walked to his bowl and started to eat, his eyes lidding when he felt her hand on his head. He had to pause from eating when she scratched his ear, making him purr loud from the feeling. However, always with one ear listening and one eye open, he could hear and smell, even taste a power coming closer and he knew it was her brother. He pulled away and looked at the door, a growl pushing the purr away. Her brother was like his old 'masters'. Rough, hateful and controlling. It was surprising as he too turned into a beast. The other Atterians called this boy a Reverse Atterian, meaning he was forced into his human body but turned into a monster one night on a full moon.

"Hmph... Well make sure they hurry up. There is a lot of work to be done. The princes birthdays are around the corner and we were ordered more water flow." He snapped before glaring at the panther. He quickly left the doorway, leaving the beasts to eat in peace again. All but one. Xigbar, the name he finally accepted, continued to growl but her voice calmed him when she spoke again. He looked back at her before turning his back on her, walking towards the back of his cage and dug through the straw. She became curious as he made a mess, his tail wagging some when he recovered what he was looking for. When he turned back to face her, she gasped to see what dangling between his sharp teeth.

A charm.
He walked over and place it on the floor where the opening was before pushing it to the other side with his paw, allowing her to pick it up. When she did and studied it, she could see that it was made with blue shells that appeared by the riverbank and tied together with dried seaweed. In the middle, there was a muddy pearl but when she brushed it away, it shined.


A hand slowly moved out, his arm extending all the way and fingers spread carefully. His finger pads started to suddenly glow and blue eyes narrowed in concentration. His blonde eyebrows pinched and he tried to ignore his hair blowing in his face. His swirls had gotten longer and fell in place much like his identical twin's. However, unlike his brother, a small patch of longer hair was pulled up in twine in the back. He continued to concentrate on his hand, knowing that his efforts had always failed but today, this morning, as the sun rose over the palace, he was going to make a light bow! He had to or... or....

His arm fell and he took an exasperated sigh, his eyes closing as he turned to his right. "Master Gin..." He spoke before his eyes opened, seeing a silver wing trying to hide in a shadow. "I can't concentrate when I know you're watching me." The red wing's shoulders slumped, trying not to make his master's chuckle lighten his mood as the man walked over to him. Ventus was a red wing and a powerful Shee since he was a prince. It was obvious what his future title would be. Leader of the Norn army. And to be a leader, he had to train and practice at his age. He, like his brothers, had changed. His thoughts became tame and he no longer questioned everything. He wrote his notes at study and left them on their pages, promising never to swipe them away again.

The boy was reluctant at first to train in the art of war and protection but when his new master, his father's best friend Gin and current leader of the army, told him that as a leader, he could travel around Norn to call up new troops. Travel was something Ventus always wanted to do and his father said he must have gotten that love from his mother.


The king did not take his defeat well. He had fought with both Jet and Runa the next day after giving the boy his speech about becoming next ruler. Roxas was a black and white wing, making him the perfect choice for the next in power. Jet stressed that he agreed until he nearly lost all the white in his wings. Runa had to be more of a moderator between the two, easily knowing the job as she was one a Speaker. However, with Roxas being her son she too had to voice her concerns to the king, saying that with such darkness in not only his wings but his heart, Norn didn't stand a chance. Volken urged the parents to reconsider and lost his temper at one point, saying it wasn't their choice but his own as the current ruler.

He calmed though and spoke softer, saying he was wrong and no greater power was the power of loving parents. He reluctantly agreed that he would no longer have studies with the young Shee and that Soran would become a fine king.
What he wasn't expecting was when a week later, the doors to his study chambers opened and Roxas stepped inside with his journal in hand and a grin on his face. Much like Volken, Roxas didn't understand the word 'No'.
"All you have to do is take what is rightfully yours."

The king turned the corner, seeing a door open and a young price walked out, rubbing his eyes some to waken himself for a busy day of studies. It wasn't easy keeping up with the worlds but his mother promised him it was easier than when the worlds were spread out more. "Good morning, my prince." Volken bowed some as they came closer and Roxas returned the bow. "You wouldn't happen to want to skip your classes today, would you? I know your birthdays are coming up and I was thinking, because you've been working so hard, I should give you your gift early. However, it include having to leave Norn for the day..." He chuckled, seeing how wide the blonde's eyes grew. The Trinity had yet to leave their home world.

[Reno]

He already knew this life was one meant to be tough and unfair and even cruel.
But did the big guy upstairs not even have a heart?

Ears pricked when he noticed his mother's steps getting faint and turned to call to her just in time to see her fall. The sound of her snapping bone echoed like the sound of his breaking heart and even as he ran to aid her, he knew he could not manage the magic to fix her as he once could have had those damn blessed not taken away everything!

He fought against hands holding him back as they inspected his mother, making her cry out and, had the boy not been quick enough to, like his father, catch his snout, he would of bitten his hand. He struggled valiantly against their hold, watching them dragging his mother away and out of sight around the barn, fear clear in his eyes. No... NO!

"Protect your mother," That's what his father had said to do. How could he of failed him already? He was a Tellus!
He kicked up his back paws, getting the boy in the stomach. He heard him choke and his grip slipped and Terra broke free racing after them and screaming all the while:
"MOTHER! MOOOOOOOOOOOOOTHER!!!"
But as he rounded the corner, he was too late as he heard the bang and saw his mother's body lay limp on the grass, blood staining under her head. Motionless.
"NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!" He howled.


Aqua rolled her eyes but sighed. He was right. Their birthday was coming up. May 21st. Trinity in every aspect. May and 2+1. She didn't see what the big deal was - triplets didn't happen often but they DID happen. Even still, she knew the occasion was grand and special to the Shee, and knew it was best to hold her remarks back.

For once.

She sighed as he walked off before looking down at the panther, but became curious as he started to dig through his things and brought back... something that made her eyes widen as she reached down and picked up the sparkling item that had been tied up into a necklace. She looked up at him, both curious and adoring as she smiled, "You're always full of surprises you know that?" His head tilted and she chuckled, before carefully tying the necklace around her neck, the pretty pearl falling perfectly on her chest. She hadn't worn a seaweed necklace since she was a kid but...

But even still she loved this simple gift. She stood and opened up the door to his cage, leaning down to face him and ran her fingers along his cheek, "It's beautiful, thank you." She gave him a kiss on his head making him purr with pleasure. She stayed in the stall as he ate, seeming unbothered and unworried with the door wide open to freedom. He never took it - she was never sure why.

"It's too bad my mother doesn't see marriage like a pearl. Some pure and rare, not just an auction to the lowest bidder." Aqua sighed as she fingered the necklace gently, her eyes dark. "I swear Xigbar... you're more of a man than any of those... cretins she keeps sending my way. None of them would give me a gift like this. Hell, I'd be lucky if they even looked at me."

They had talked about this - or more so she had told him about this - many times. Her marriage. Her parents were already arranging it in the typical fashion of her ancesters - arranged marriage. She felt jealous of the other girls who were not bound by a tradionalist family like she was, free to choose at will. And what would she be stuck with? Probably a creature lower than a pig.

She was obviously unhappy with this, but what could she do? Maybe this was why he liked her so much - why they all did. She was caged as they were.

"It's too bad you can't run away with me." She sighed wistfully. "Off to Makatza... now that would make us both free." If only fairy tales were true.


"Ah yes, I understand young prince, but as you know well you'll have many eyes watching you during a battle and not all of them will be friendly. You'll have to learn to concentrate when they are on you sometime." Gin said lightly. Though sometimes a little free-spirited and a little air-headed, Ventus was truly quite skilled and crafty. He pulled off many tricks that he himself took twice as long to learn. But as the delved into the skills of magic, that is where his pupil started to falter some. He had already been trying to make light arrows for two weeks now.

He might have to have Artios train him for this portion instead.

"I'm sure the next time I turn around you'll be shooting these arrows off so fast I won't be able to follow them." He encouraged, his grand silver wings stretching languidly, so large they seemed to shelter then both. "You have been at it every day dawn to dusk since I showed you. Perhaps you need a break? A ride through the countryside?"


Yes, Roxas certainly didn't understand the word no. He was a prince and spoiled quite well; when someone told him no, he just pretended they said yes and did it anyways. No one would tell him what his destiny was - he knew he was meant to be king and he was sure he'd see it happen one way or another. He just had to prove himself first.

But no matter how old he was or how logical, even he was still but a teenager, the kid inside him coming out every now and again. "Would I?! Where are we going?! What's my gift? Is it nice?!" He asked, his composure broken due to his excitement. That got him scolded lightly but Volken seemed amused, telling him it was a surprise and he'd best let Latium know his studies would be on hold today.

There was an obedient nod and the boy hurried off, doing his best not to run until he was out of Volken's sight, practically jumping for joy. A day out - even better, a day off of Norn! His first ever!

He hurried to the library, where he was sure to find Latium. As he opened the door, the candles were already lit, the elder, wise, yellow-winged Shee was thumbing through a book but when he heard the door open he looked up and smiled. "Ah Roxas, there you are. Are you ready for your lessons?"
Roxas shook his head, and said, "I can't come to the lessons today Latium. King Volken had asked for my presence for the day."
"Oh I see. Well then I suppose you shouldn't keep him waiting."
The boy grinned and nodded before he was off speeding out the door again, not noticing the way Latium's eyes narrowed. He wondered if Runa and Jet knew of this. He was an educated man, who had seen the change of rulers and knew the Kingdom was not doing as well as it should since Diliza and Volken has married. He had respected, even agreed, with the younger couple's decision to make it Sora as the heir to the throne and not simply because he was the eldest. He cared about everything, and would not forget even the most insignificant of 'creatures'; that is what a King should be.

[Rikugurl]

Golden eyes closed again as he felt her gentle fingers run along his fur and once more, like a damn house cat, he purred. Why he did not jump her, slash her throat and flee when he had the chance was above him either. It could have done it so many times before when she sat by his side some morning and spoke of her life but instead, he decided to sit and listen. Maybe he was much like his brother, suddenly struck with a determinant decision. Unlike his brother though, his was ridiculous for wanting to be with a bag of bones for the rest of his life. He wanted her to be his mate.

Ha! As if. He was old enough for her to be his kin.

He eventually turned, returning to his plate before his breakfast got cold but his ears pulled against his scull he could still listen to her. She would be mating soon with a male that her parents chose. It wasn't uncommon when Atterians were free. Their mating was all based on power and title. Two-legged mating was all about wealth. As he was finishing up, he paused, hearing a name that was familiar to him. Makatza. Every Atterian and slave on this world knew what that place was. Freedom. He paused before slowly lapping up some water from his bowl. She wanted to run away with him? Why would she.... ever want to do something like that with an Atterian?

The large panther turned to face the young woman, almost her side when she was sitting. He took a step closer and his large head came close to hers. She giggled when his whiskers started to tickle her face but she was stunned when a cold, wet tongue licked her cheek.


"Ah? Really?" Ventus smiled as he looked up at his master, already liking his idea. That was one thing he was quite good at already; horseback riding. He still looked very small on a horse so they gave him a larger horse which made it seem like he wasn't so small, just mounted on a large creature. "Lets!" He quickly followed Gin to the royal stables where some green wings and humans worked. A human bowed as they walked in. "Good morning." He welcomed. "I shall ready your horses at once." With that, the boy was gone to grab them their gentle beasts. Horses were not native to Norn as Shee flew to places they needed to go if it was a ways away.

The prince's face lit up when he saw the large clydesdale that was his own. "Hey girl..." He spoke softly as he took the reins from the boy and rubbed between her eyes. She was such a sweet and gentle creature. She deserved a better name than what he called her but it was irony through and through. She mocked the same design as the Balanced Shee wings but her name was Sorrow. He walked around to her side and with a flutter and trained leg work, he was on her back, getting comfortable on her natural groove and blankets. The prince pulled his cloak hood over his head, as so did Gin before heading out of the palace.

Their wings disappeared as they reached the edge of the kingdom because beyond this point, they did not want the commons to know they were of royalty. They wanted to enjoy their ride and if they rode as they were, people would flock to greet them. The two horses followed the old trail but instead of heading towards the Wood, they took a turn and headed through the villages around the kingdom.
As they rode down the less maintained roads, they passed a large farm where the royal family visited often. It was the largest Atterian breeding farm and why it was there was still a mystery to him. Why were they breeding these monsters if they were originally here as refugees?

The sound of their horses hooves on the bricks were loud but neither of them could deny hearing the sound of a gun going off nearby. The prince's head rose in alarm and he pulled Sorrow's reins hard to stop her. When she came to a stop, he pulled her reins toward the direction of the noise and snapped them, making her run full speed off the road and down into the valley. He could hear his master's call from the road but he didn't look back. Something was wrong. The Balance was unsettling here. He rode up to a barn and around it only to see a horrible sight. A monster was laying on the muddy ground and a younger one was being held back with a rope that was so tight around his neck, his blue eyes could see blood around his fur.

He would have seen more blood if he didn't stop what was going to happen next as the man who had obviously shot the larger monster turned his gun towards the smaller. "Enough!" His voice rang out and there was silence. The humans looked towards him and suddenly the weapon was dropped and their hats pulled from their head when they saw the fierce, power glow of red and orange wings on the back of the mysterious rider's back.
"A blesséd!" The man holding onto the rope whispered, quickly bowing his head. Slowly, the rider dismounted and his feet sank into the cold mud. This was normally unacceptable for humans to let a blesséd travel in such disgusting environments but this one was obviously different.

As he walked closer, he rose his arms and pulled down his cape, revealing just who he was.


The king waited patiently for the prince to return and when he did, the coy smile appeared on his lips again, his arm stretching out to lay on the boy's shoulder's, leading him out the front doors and to the fountain outside. It was a beautiful sunny morning yet the fog was still thick outside of the kingdom as usual after a rain. Instead of heading to the town square, Volken lead his step-grandson to the left, feeling the boy suddenly shake with excitement as they came closer to one of the portals. The king paused as turned to look down at the boy. "Now, you didn't speak of this to your brothers or parents, did you?" The boy nodded, staying he only told Latium that he would be off studies today.

"Good. It took some time to set this up for you today so I don't want anyone to ruin it for you." He opened his cape and revealed some pouches inside. Two had blue vials inside that were pulled out and one handed to the prince. "Now drink this. You will feel a sudden chill but it will protect you for the world we will be visiting today is a very hot one." He drank his vial first, Roxas watching him before taking a sip of his. It just tasted like very cold, clear water. He downed the rest of it and returned the glass before they both walked through the portal.

The smell of sulfur invaded their nose suddenly and sweat was instant. Their body felt a sudden chill and the temperature was suddenly much like Norns even though before them, all they could see was haze. Despite being day, the sky above was dark and covered in gray clouds of smoke. The sun, dyed red, shined its rays down towards the world. The rays collected in the clouds, dying them a brilliant orange, making the sky look aflame. On land volcanoes were in every direction, spewing gray and black smoke. Forever erupting, rivulets of orange lava trickled down their sides, constantly reshaping the land. The land was covered in a fine dust of gray ash and black shadows, the trees and shrubbery all burnt black that it seemed that even a mere touch could make them crumble. Fires were everywhere, burning nothing but more ash yet never seeming to go out.

It was snowing. But when the young prince reached out a hand, letting the flakes collect in his palm, he was a little surprised that they were not cold. He crushed the flakes, rubbing them between his fingers. Ash.
When he looked up again, the king laughed, seeing the sudden blush on the boy's face when he realized most all those who inhabited this world were completely naked. Full breast and nude female and male genitalia could be seen nearly everywhere the boy looked as the creatures looked in their direction.

Tarsa was the world the imps of course, hellish creatures that weren't in for much serious business. They are more mischievous than seriously threatening and they lived by the seven deadly sins. There was pride, greed, wrath, gluttony, sloth, envy and their favorite... lust. One their nude bodies, frail bat-like wings sprouted from their backs along with black tails that were the same nature as a rats. On their foreheads, ram-like horns sprouted up and curled some, all varying in size.
"Come along." Volken called as he passed the boy and headed towards a large door on the side of the closest volcano.

[Reno]

Aqua's eyes went wide as she glanced at the panther who sat staring with eyes that seemed to understand too much, before smiling to him. Before she could speak though, they heard a yell from outside of the barn - it was Sai again telling her to hurry up and that the beasts needed to get to the water mill already.

She sighed, looking at the panther forlornly. "I guess it's just another day for now..."


Triangular ears flipped back and he let loose another snarl as he stared down the barrel of the gun, his muscles tensed and about to pounce when the shout echoed and made them all pause. for himself and the man who held the gun, quite literally, the word seeming to hold a level of magic to it.

It broke after a few moments and the wolfen Atterian sunk to the ground, dazed while his all-mighty master turned to face the blessed and trembled some. The wolf snorted - his eyes narrowing as they looked up at the creature and started to snarl but a sharp tug on the rope ,ade the threatening noise be choked short.
"Prince Ventus! Ah, I had not received word that you would be coming here today! I apologize, things are not as kept up as they should be." The man, the father of four and the leader of the farm, announced seeming a bit nervous as the winged creatures eyes swept over the sight of the dead monster. When he demanded to know why she had been killed, he answered swiftly, "She had fallen down in a hole and broken a hip. It is unlikely to recover from such an injury so we took mercy on her."
The younger wolf started to growl again, and this time he snarled aloud for them all to hear as he pounced towards the man, halted just a scant few feet away by the rope, "Mercy!? You call that MERCY?! I'LL KILL YOU!"


Roxas didn't know what to expect... but it certainly wasn't this. Tarsa was the last place he expected to go, as it was a world utterly out of Balance and, according to the Star map, mostly forbidden to go to. Of course, Volken was the king. He was the one who made those decisions in the first place. Was... Was his gift going to be a chance to change this world into a blue star?

But how could he? It seemed sin was still rampart here, and he tried to be brave, avoiding the eyes of some curlish brunette flicking her tail at him, her breasts - uh - b-bouncing...
His cheeks flushed hard and fought hard to keep his head high and not on his toes as he followed the other man through the door, knowing he'd know soon enough what was up.

[Rikugurl]

Blonde swirls blew in the damp wind, still feeling the soft touches of raindrops from the fog around them. He continued to look at the dead monster, knowing that her grave shouldn't be behind a barn and in the mud. It was degrading, even for Atterians. "I see..." He spoke softly and turned back, seeing the young wolf Atterian struggling and gagging some by the rope. "This one?" He asked, pointing to the wolf and he was informed that it was just a misbehaving pup. His father had killed some workers and the one laying on the ground dead was his mother. "Did he really need to witness his only parent's death?" Another excuse was quick to come, this one being the truth that the pup had broken free and came here, probably to kill them.

"I suggest you make a better area to show mercy then, Roland. I do not want to see something like this ever again." The prince frowned, making the man apologize more and bow his head. The red wing slowly turned to see the pup who was still growling at the man who took his mother but with a few steps, he cut his vision and all the wolf could see was the prince. Their blue eyes suddenly met and Ven's went wide, shocked that he would see this wolf again after a few years.

"Hey there... You alright?"

The wolf slowly started to calm as they continued to stare at each other. The silence broke however when the prince suddenly asked another question. "Do any other Atterians here have blue eyes?"


When the prince entered through the door of the volcano, he came into a poorly lit shop. Goods and spices were hung around the man made cave and reminded him somewhat of the market he was use to. Behind the counter, another imp seemed to be waiting for them. Luckily for Roxas, he was wearing a loincloth. "Ah, Prince Roxas, I have been waiting for you." The tall man grinned, his horns rather impressive looking. He was quite a shady looking fellow but Roxas was use to such appearance when Volken had his late studies with other leaders of other worlds. "I was asked to set you up with a birthday gift and I think I outdid myself! Please, whenever you are ready, I will meet you in the back room." He motioned to a better lit room behind a curtain before disappearing behind it.

"Roxas, every good king has a personal servant." Volken suddenly spoke. "Since you are in your puberty years, I thought the best gift could be one you could use as much as you want, for as long as you want. A never ending gift. I had always dreamed of a personal servant but it is a little too late for me now. Tarsa has the best servants. They are gifted in dance, music and above all.... sex." He grinned, seeing the boy straighten from the word. "Go on... you may choose only one."
With some hesitance and a small push on the back, Roxas entered the room that had a few lanterns hanging from the ceiling. In the middle of the room stood four imps, all chained together in a line but separated some.

"Happy Birthday~" Roxas could hear the older imp congratulate him and suddenly felt a hot palm on his back as he pushed the Shee closer to the others who seemed to be waiting for him. "Before you are four virgins who have been handpicked by yours truly to please you in any and every way~ Virgins are very rare here on Tarsa so this is a very special chance to choose the one of your liking. They have been inspected and are pure in body. Let me introduce them to you one by one so you may have some information before you choose."

He brought the boy to the first imp who was a female, her breast already well developed, her body strong and curvy. "This is Kalama. She is sixteen and a jewel for her age." The redheaded imp, whose horns were growing in nicely into her red hair smiled. She perked onto her tippy toes, making her breast bounce for the prince. "Happy Birthday, master!" She smiled, showing him her pearly white fangs.
The boy was moved to stand before the next girl. She was less developed and even had a hint of blush on her face. Her horns were a bit shorter than the one before her but still having some length to them. "This one already has a name to honor your symbol of balance. Her name is Xion and she is fourteen." The imp with the black hair looked at the price with a shy approach. "Happy birthday, master."

Next, and truly to Roxas's surprise, he was placed before a short male imp, who was forced to have an erection due to a ring around the base of his penis. The boy was actually a bit shorter than himself. His horns however were the longest of them all and he held a smug smile as he looked at the prince. This one had long, wild strawberry hair and bright big eyes with some jewels around his hairline that actually looked implanted. "This is Luneth, the youngest. He is outspoken but will surely listen to your every command. He is thirteen."
The young boy flashed his fangs and moved his shoulders some. "Happy birthday, princy~"

And last, he was placed before the tallest of the group who much like the one before, was forced to have an erection. It was larger than the younger boy but what was bizarre about this one was that though he was the tallest, his wings and horns were the smallest. His horns looked like baby goats and his wings the size of an actual bat. His hair was an unruly red which faded to black as it neared his scalp. His eyes curved to look naturally exotic but his green eyes were looking away, as if he didn't want to be here at all. "This is the last one and much like Xion, he already has a name to honor your balance. His name is Axel and he is fifteen."
The redhead was silence for a moment before he spoke, still not making eye contact with the prince. "Happy birthday.....master."

[Reno]

"Ah... blue eyes Sire...?" The male said for a moment, looking quite baffled, and it was obvious to anyone that he didn't even seem to think it important to look. The Shee demanded they go and check the rest of their Atterians immediately and, after tying up the wolf, hurried to do so.

Terra fought at his bonds for awhile, knowing he could break the rope easily and run free - but when he noticed the Shee studying him, he realized it was futile to think of escape. He gave a growl before turning his back to the other, giving him an insulting show of his ass as he laid down in what little shade this side of the barn offered. But, despite that, the summer sun was already hot for the early day and, in the half hour it took for the family to study each and every Atterian's eye color, the wolf was panting some, saliva dripping onto the grass from his tongue.

Had someone of just asked him, he could of given them the answer in seconds. He knew every name, every kin, every look of his brethren. They were his family after all.

The farmer returned, announcing that no, they had no other Atterians with blue eyes when he got a strange request - to check the dead mother. He hesitated before walking around the barn and over to the carcass, looking carefully as if expecting the mother to rise from her grave and attack him. He turned to tell the Shee that yes, she did indeed have blue eyes. Terra's tail flicked in agitation as he felt the bleesed's eyes boring into him with wonder. This one had a staring problem, that was for damn sure.
"I... mean no disrespect Sire," The man hesitantly interrupted the prince's thoughts, "but this is a very peculiar request. Why is it important who has blue eyes?"


Of all the things Roxas expected it was not this, but at the mention of what his new slave could do for him sent a thrill through his body. He might of been young, but he had hit puberty and was already very curious about the inner workings of the bedroom. He'd always wanted to try sex.

His wings fluttered some in unease. But was it really right to force another? Not just that, but to make them a slave to it? Sure, one would say imps were really slaves to their sins but... they usually did make the decision of who and when.

So, he followed, though a little reluctantly at first, but as he stepped into the room, the white side of his wings stood no chance as the sights and pheromones of the room has his toes curling in his shoes in sudden excitement. He didn't readily recognize the scent of the room because he had never experienced it before - but later on in life he would remember it as the smell of sex.

He approached the slaves as he was introduced to them, curious at the notion that they were all virgins. He was sure their was a level of significance to that and, indeed, it aroused him more at the idea they would have no other then himself.
And when you marry? The tiniest voice in his mind tried to speak up but he squashed it without bothering to answer.

His eyes studied them with a blush on his face, inexperienced at what he was looking for exactly. It was as if each one has a different 'type' to intrigue him, Kalama had her looks and confident nature that made him sure she would take care of him swiftly and coyly. Xion her adorable shyness that made him realize she was more submissive and would be easy to mold to his liking. And, a shock running through his system, he even had two males to choose from. He had never even considered... but as he met Luneth's bold gaze he felt a competitive edge build up inside him, suddenly feeling hotter at the idea of fighting this boy for dominance.

It was at the last one that he was the most intrigued. Tall and painfully slim, Axel was so different from the others' in demeanor and looks. And his mind, full of perversion, screeched to a halt and he realized he had no idea how this one would act in bed. He always had a thing for mystery. "Tell me," Roxas asked in a tone that made it sound more like he was inquiring about cattle, "Is it a defect in this world to have smaller horns and wings?"
He held back a smirk when he noticed green eyes narrowing at the insulting question but the slave master answered him swiftly. He explained that, no, it was not typical but Axel was a bit on the rare side in another way. He had a blood brother. Meaning his parents had come together twice and birthed two children. It was, in their world, a superstition that to do so was bad luck. To have smaller 'assets' so to speak also brought in less attraction from other potential consorts.

The blonde realized with a shock what the imp wasn't saying. Axel wasn't here because he wanted to be - he was here because he had no other choice. "And, who typically buys these slaves of yours?"
Other imps. Of course. So, while Kalama, Xion and Luneth certainly had a future out of this place. But Axel... again he couldn't see it.

Blue eyes narrowed some, before he grinned wickedly. "Alright I've made my choice. I would like this one." He nodded to Axel confidently.
There was something else about him that made him want this imp over any other. He was the only imp on this world with a brother related to both mother AND father. And he, on his own world, was the only Shee on the world with the balanced black-and-white wings. They were both rare in their birth.

[Rikugurl]

Blue eyes looked back at the owner of Numees Breedery, knowing very well how rich and well known he was. This was the largest (an only legal) Atterian breeding farm and one of the top farms for milk, even though they made up a word, they had a reputation throughout the Commons and kingdom. With such reputation, it was not always a good thing. His parents had taught him well on how business and natural Sin of Greed humans had, and he was smart to listen. If he did not answer the question right, he could endanger future blue eye Atterians.

"Because," He started boldly, showing no falter in his words. "I have decided to collect them." The owner seemed baffled but the prince continued. "All people have great specific interest and blue happens to be a favorite color of mine." He looked back at the wolf who was still panting quite harshly before looking back. "I want every blue eyed Atterian you breed from now on. When one is born, I am to be contacted immediately. I shall speak with King Volken to make sure your taxes are lowered to make up for labor loss. As for this one," Ventus suddenly pointed at the wolf tied up, "I will consider it my birthday gift from your 'breedery'.

Was he insane? Did he just indicated that he would take an Atterian for himself? Atterians were rare in the palace and only two white ones were slaves there who both aided in keeping the palance in top shape. What exactly will he do with this beast and would he be able to handle it? He wasn't clearly thinking ahead but his plan was falling through easily. He turned and headed back to his loyal horse, mounting her again with ease. "I want it transported to the palace by nightfall and be delivered through the North gate." With a snap of the reins, Sorrow turned and headed back to the road where his master was waiting for him in concern.


Roxas's choice was rather strange as well. The slave seller rose an eye brow as Kalama pouted, Xion gave a sigh of relief, Luneth growled and bared his fangs from defeat and Axel's face; stunned. "Very interesting choice, my prince. I shall ready him for you then. Please meet me in the storefront." Roxas saw the owner unlock the neck brace from the boy, seeing some reddened marks from where the boy obviously struggled.
About ten minutes later, Volken and Roxas turned to see the slave owner coming from the back with a figure next to him in a brilliant, high quality orange cloak. A hood was pulled over the slave's head to block his face and his wings and tail were well hidden.

"Here you are." The imp presented before handing the boy a fine, leather box. "Inside are you commentary items including a color, leash, bounds and cuffs. And this," He reached over his counter and handed the young prince a golden ring that was beautifully designed. "Make sure it is not worn for too long~ If you desire any more accessories or perhaps another playmate, please come back and I will do my best to please your needs. I sell the finest and best quality metal and leather items on all of Tarsa~"

The three left the shop after the king and prince's thanks. Volken glanced at the taller figure next to his grandson, knowing just what he picked. "You are always full of surprises, Roxas. I did not imagine you would choose a male."



The sky started to turn dark and a warm breeze blew through the trees as the stars came out and the moon replaced the sun. In the wetlands, the air was damp as always and the bogs and land filled with extra water. A single Atterian pulled the crank for the mill, being the only monster to work through the night to provide the kingdom with water, just less flow. It was an Atterian that none really knew and he was silent to them as his large, wolfish jaw would take his bar and push the wheel with his strength.

The rest of the pack started to head back to their stable, their muscles weak from the day of labor and the straw calling their name. They followed each other in line, the teenage boy leading the way and keeping close watch on them. The large black panther was in tow as usual and he lapped up whatever clean water puddle he came by to quench his thirst. As he followed the others, his ears perked when he suddenly heard a faint tone, his golden eyes searching the dark land only to spot a lantern on, hanging by a tree limb, as the blue haired female was washing up the last of the clothes for the night. Xigbar, once again hypnotized by the two legged's voice and beauty, paused on the wet ground to watch her. His tail wagged and his eyes sharpened, trying to get a better look at her because now he realized she wasn't cleaning clothes and hanging them to dry.

She was bathing.

"So, you have an eye for my sister."
Golden eyes widened and fear shot through his muscles, realizing that he had been careless and overtaken by lewd thoughts. He was brazen though, falling out of line and actually looking up at his 'master' instead of pulling his tail between his legs and catch up with the other. For this, he was punished.
"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!"
A pain filled roar shot over the land as a grubber used for poking and prodding the monsters was suddenly jabbed into a golden eye. Other workers on the farm quickly maintained the other monsters and pushed them into their stables so they would not revolt due to an injured brethren. A magical barrier was placed over the stable doors by Shee workers to make sure there was no escape.

Blood began to pour from the socket but the tool was instantly ripped out, taking the golden eye out with it. Xigbar instantly remembered who he was and what he was as pure anger pushed through his veins and he lashed out. Within seconds, the large cat had the boy pegged in the muddy ground, the weight and force of his pounce making some ribs fracture on impact. Fangs bared down at the boy, his blood splattering down onto his face but before he could bring death to him, he was shocked by electricity, making his fur and skin burn as other workers stashed the rods at him.


In the palace, a young prince stood on his balcony, his red wings brightening the forest below. The moon reflected off his eyes and for a moment, he wondered if his brother was sleeping, dreaming of Twilight. That was the first time today his mind strayed from the wonders of why he had ordered that Atterian to be brought to him. What would he do with it now? With already developing muscles, his arms pushed him up against the rails and he flapped his wings, bringing himself into flight. He knew he couldn't fly long because he would be spotted so he gracefully dropped into the small forest, pulled his cloak hood over his head and headed towards the North gate.

When he arrived, he saw the glow of a room from an open door that was nearly closed and knew that the staff of the eatery was cleaning up and heading to bed. The North gate was for food and drink to be delivered and he knew that it was the safest way to get an Atterian even near the palace as no guards watched this gate. He silently moved through the shipment, seeing some boxes were still not pulled inside but would be fine out here for the night. The crate that interested him most was one that had a clothed cover. He passed a crate of sleeping chickens and slowly leaned down, carefully pulling the cloth up and over the top. Inside, he could see the young Atterian sleeping in what looked like a blanket. He must of had this with him since he was being presented to a royal member.

"Hello?" He called, instantly grabbing the Atterian's attention. He had learned that they were light sleepers. He heard a growl and frowned, knowing that his harsh few years of life had turned him from an adorable puppy to an angry, spiteful monster. Even with the growling, the boy showed no fear.
"Do you speak Common?" No answer, only hearing him growl more. Ventus knew that he would be put to the test of his language lessons from his mother.
"Do you speak Atterian?" Still he growled.
"Do you speak Tarsan?" Growling.
"Do you speak Shadows?" Still the growling continued.
"Do you speak Nymph? Do you speak Thyme?" No language that he knew calmed the beast.

With a sigh, he sat on the ground and figured he would stay with the most obvious. "I know you are angry and I am sorry. I do not like the place you were either but you are safe now." His words still did not settle the wolf so the blonde swirls bounced as he looked around the area and shot up, leaving the growling beast for a moment before returning with some treats in his hand. Dried meat. They were not diced yet so they were still long, making it safer to experiment as he put one through the bars.


Green eyes looked pass the darkness of his hood, seeing the grand and magnificent room he was placed in. It was empty but yet so full. Bare feet padded against the cold tiles, finding them particularly chilly as he was so use to intense heat. This whole world was colder, his skin already sensitive to the touch from the change. His pores were not use to being closed which was the only think pure about a Tarsan; they bathed in lava which made their bodies the cleanest in the universe. Unfortunately, those clean pours are quickly filled with filth from lust.

Speaking of, the figure in the orange cloak tensed as the door was open behind him and he quickly stood straight as his new master came into his room.

[Reno]

Unaware of the eyes that had been watching her, the young maiden of the farm shut her eyes as she dipped her head back, her hair darkening as it was wettened. The day had been unbearably hot and the bath was just what she needed.

It was too bad that it was meant to be cut short.

At the howl, her head rose from the water, her eyes wide and she looked across the field just in time to see the creature who had saved her life pounce on her brother. She gave a shout of horror, watching as the beast was pulled off of him and struck by the other workers.

No one noticed, or heard, the water rippling and splashing about.

But they certainly heard. "WHAT IN ALL NORN'S NAME IS GOING ON HERE?!"
Some of them paused and looked back, only to blush and look away and some stuttered, "M-Mistress Aqua!" As of course the lady had not seen fit to clothe first.
"I asked a question, where is my answer?" The woman said proudly and one finally saw fit to give her an answer. From what they had seen, the monster has pounced on Sai without provocation and tried to kill him.
"Shall we dispose of him?"
"NO!" She snapped, making most of the workers jump back in alarm at her powerful shout. Even she herself was surprised by her fervor. In it's wake was silence, filled by the pained groans of her brother and the little whimpers from the monster. She crossed her arms over her chest, though seemed unflustered by her lack of dress as she walked around the sight, and finally caught sight of the Atterian, seeing one eye shut and bleeding and she need not know what had happened but it filled her with fury none the less. "Who did this?" There was silence. Her foot tapped on the dirt and she snarled, "Are you fools deaf?! I asked who did this?! And so help me if you lie to me I will make your life hell."
Still flustered, she got an answer at each and every one that none of them did it. But if no one did.... she looked at her brother, who was wheezing some, then spotted something further off. Just out of his reach.
I see...
Suddenly her heart felt calmer. She knew such a kind beast like Xigbar could never of done such a thing 'without provocation'. She felt shamed for ever doubting him, if only for a second.
"M-Mistress Aqua? Do you wish for some clothes? I can-"
"Did I ASK for clothes?" She snapped in return to the young boy's stutters, before she looked down at panther who was staring back up at her with only one eyes, his look pathetic.

She didn't know how to feel.
"I want him returned to his cage and his wound tended to - and don't give me any of that half-assed bullshit either or I'll make sure your asses are on the streets! And get Sai to his room, carefully. I want no other word spoken of this. Am I understood?"
"Y-Yes Miss Aqua!"


The second eldest of the Trinity was right. Soran was with Twilight that night.
"Well I've got a good one this time!" The brunette sat as he plopped down on the dock with the other, looking at him expectantly and just a tiny bit hopefully. "Alright, your true name is........ Steve!"
.........
Twilight laughed so hard he fell into the water. Even when he surfaced and spluttered he was STILL laughing.
"Well, I'll take THAT as a no!" Sora said, blushing in embarrassment. This game had started only two or so years ago. It had never occurred to him before that Twilight was not his friend's first name. He was bound by the magic to never tell - but if Sora guessed it well that wasn't breaking rules. There wasn't a prize for it. No wish granted or wealth retained. So why did he do it?
Well, he did it for Twilight he supposed, who deserved his true name as much as his title.

But he had already guessed over 700 names and hadn't gotten close yet.
"Come on Twi," Sora asked, reached down and sweeping back the silver strands that had gotten in his face, pouting hopefully. "Can't you give me a hint? Pleaaaase?"


His trip had not been fun. This blanket was just a sham of illusion, meant to look like they treated him like a... like a prince. He had spent the entirety of the day out in the sun, punished without food or water to purposely tire him and make it easy for them to collar him into this wooden containment without having the energy to break out.
All he had left to him were his howls of sorrow as he finally was overcome by grief from the loss of both his parents. Now what was he to do? How could he go on without his kin and his brethren? Why were the blessed so cruel? Everything was taken away from him. His pride. His family. What did he have left to himself except the shame of being someone's pet collection!?

When he saw him, he started to snarl and growl, his eyes mistrusting the other instantly and moreso as he spoke a thousand tongues to him few of them making sense. But his ears perked up as he saw the meat being brought forth and he licked his lips, his muscles shaking in anticipation - but it wasn;t for the meat.
And the prince found that out quickly when the Wolf charged and gave a shout.

There was a loud bang, the body hitting the cage and a paw swiping out, just barely missing getting the blond with his claws. and his weight overturned his crate making him tumbled awkwardly against what was once the wall of his prison. Luckily the wood only splintered some, rather then bursting open. Gleaming, triumphant blue eyes looked out from between the slabs of wood.
"Coward." He snarled.


"I never though men would be an option." He had said back to his teacher's remark, trying to be scathing as well as witty. After all, it was Volken who arranged such a gift and it was his preference that was no doubt what the slave seller lined up for him.

But now that he was alone and with only his own thoughts and... and Axel, he felt suddenly very shy. Very uncertain. His eyes roamed over the form of the barely clothes imp, and then the box of 'treasures' he had left on his desk wondering if he could ever brave using such items.

If he could ever brave... having sex with this imp.

His parents teachings about love were mixing in his head, and his wings shimmered some in nervousness and the sudden feeling of how wrong this was. A sex slave. A sex slave?!
Was this really how a prince - no, a future KING should behave in his youth? And to have a male consort of all things...

Was this what people would respect him for?

He sighed in agitation and ordered. "Sit down on the bed and remove your hood." He was ordered, though slowly, and that agitated him some but he let it pass. He knew the other probably... had no experience being a 'servant'.
But when the hood was down, he stared into the green eyes of the other, unable to idolize them with anything else but fine emeralds. "Listen, let us get some things straight. First of all, you will address me as Master, Sire, or Prince. Never by name. You are to sleep here every night, with me unless I say otherwise. You will stay in this room unless I have given you permission to roam - and if I do you must be within my sight. When you EARN the right to leave this room, you will be clothed and anyone you come in contact with you will treat with the upmost respect. I will make sure you are provided with adequate necessities and entertainment in my absences. Are we understood?"