Of Nightmares

[Reno]

The hesitating prince steeled his gaze and nodded, "I'll be right there." He stated before hurrying to his room to get changed. So much had happened since he returned from Twilight - particularly, the news of Ventus being hurt in battle had swept the palace into a small panic. Even Roxas, who seemed more often these days to never have time for hid brothers, dropped by to check and see if his identical twin was fairing well - even IF Terra was there.

Riri, the palace doctor, reported that he would make a fine and full recovery. This seemed enough to calm his father, who seemed ready to tear out poor Gin's wings who had already apologized profusely.

But things had gotten no better and Sora felt sick to hear about the Fountain of Memories and the fact that their were no answer to the phenomenon - no definite ones that is, except for the giant beast they had taken down - left him feeling weak and unsure. If he were king, how would he of dealt with this problem? He'd been thinking of the answer all day.

And realized... he didn't have one.

A few minutes later, the blue-winged Shee found himself in the throne room, where his grandmother Diliza was meeting with several black-wings but Volken was not yet there. When she caught sight of him, she suddenly drew all attention to him, "Ah yes, and I would like you to meet my grandson, Soran. He is the current heir to the throne."
Somehow, he felt as if she were making fun of him. It was no secret Diliza held much disdain for her family members, though she, like Volken, had gotten along very well with Roxas. Still, Sora held himself high as he walked over, and suddenly excitement curled through him. He was meeting black wings from Makatza! "Hello, it is a pleasure to meet you."


"This?" Terra asked, looking down at his paw with a flippant air, as if it didn't mean much. sure hurt like a bitch though when one of those dogs' fangs bit nearly through it. "Merely nothing, no more than a bit of annoyance. And you? You had smacked into that tree fairly hard."

Fairly hard did not describe it. The impact had actually broken some of the bark right off so that the beige-strips of the inner trunk could be seen. Terra had started to run back towards him, and that was how he had gotten hurt, when one of the beasts just jumped from the ground underneath him. He had swiped at it, but his paw got caught in it's jaws instead. He ended up tousling with it, before it disappeared with a good snap of his jaws on it's neck.

What really bothered him, was those creatures had no scent to them. The only thing that often warned him of their danger was a putrid stench of their magic, dipped in black art. He knew what it smelt like as Artios had shown the Trinity many black magic spells. Still, he had stayed by Ven and Sorrow until the battle ended, Gin showing an amazing blast of wind magic that seared right through the biggest beast's horn. Once it was down, the rest disappeared as well, as if the minions could not exist without their demonic master.


"No, of course not..." Aqua finally said with a frown on her face, remembering the man who had come to see her that evening. He had been older than her but still young and attractive. But the way he acted around her made her blood boil in an uncomfortable way. He almost acted like he didn't care if she was there at all!

No, he wasn't really bothering her. It was... "My dad... he looked so happy is all." She sighed. Ronan, her father, had always been a kind presence in her life. He helped free her from many of her mother's endless lectures and even at times had indulged her less than womanly behavior. But today, she had never seen him so proud of her. It bothered her... how badly she would disappoint him once he realized she was gone.

[Rikugurl]

A black wing Shee with long golden hair turned to the young prince who came over. She did not know who he was as she never saw him before. She didn't know any of the Shee who lived here except for Diliza herself as all black wings, even royalty, were family. Ever since the Balance was lost generations ago, the ties between Makatza and the kingdom started to break. The black wings and residence from Makatza blamed the disturbance on the kingdom as it wasn't like this before the Connections almost collided. The world became a dark place when the Atterians and humans made their home here and corruption took over the palace walls. Ironically enough, they opened their walls and gates to refugees of all kinds. Shee, humans and Atterians alike.

The look in this woman's eyes were cold but respectful, though when she turned to the boy, she pulled her wings in, as so did the man she came with. Behind them, Soran could see an imp. This one wasn't like Axel as his horns were well developed and his wings were much larger. He was also wearing a lot more too.
"The pleasure is mine." She spoke softly as her hand came out and they shook. "I hope you will gain some more balance for our world when you're crowned." She looked behind her then back at the brunette. "I am Rebecka and my company here is Remedios." The other black wing bowed slightly, his gaze much like her own. "And my other company Orion." She motioned to the imp who gave him a shallow bow of the head.

"There was a disruption in the Balance this morning. Many of the people of Makatzu were affected, even if we are mostly black wings. We've come looking for answers as we guessed it was caused by the fountains. We only have two fountains in our region and both have been inspected. To our surprise, the Fountain of Life and the Fountain of Spite both had different symptoms, both shielding themselves from view."


"I see...." Now he knew why his back hurt so. He pulled at his robe some, looking down to see some bandages around his torso. He hoped his master didn't get into too much trouble... it was truly his fault as he was distracted during battle. Even if his mind didn't question everything now, it still wandered. Those creatures... they weren't real. Yet they were real enough to destroy the Fountain of Memories. It would take a long time for it to rebuild itself. His father once told them that long ago when the Balance was right, if something happened to a fountain, white and black wings would go to it and pray for the spirit, the guardian, to return and pour in their strength. It would take a few days for new stones to shift and mark, to glow and water would flow again.

Now, there was very little hope of it. The amount of white wings born decrease every year and nearly all the black wings left to Makatzu when they are old enough to fly. It was hard to believe how much their harmony crumbled. He couldn't believe that they were all still alive, being creatures that can only survive by the Balance.

"Did they not tend to you or did you not let them?" He questioned the wolf but before he could gain an answer, Terra could hear a riiiiip from the prince's good robes and his paw as taken. The cloth was wrapped around the wound tightly but not enough to hurt. It would keep the blood from soaking the flesh and infection away. "Thank you... for watching out for me." Ventus smiled, pulling his hand away from the new bandage after tying a knot only to reach up and run his fingers tentatively over Terra's head. He had never tried to 'pet' the Atterian, figuring he would find offense to it as he didn't wish to be anyone's pet. But this was beyond a pet for good measure. It was a sign of affection, of thanks. He felt how soft the pointed ears were and felt around his collar, noticing all the scabs were gone that the rope had made.

The blonde smile softly, seeing the black tail wag happily as he continued to run his hands over his fur.


Ah, disappointment from a father was the worst one could ever deal with. The man stood, wrapping one of the blankets he hadn't used for a sack around his waist. He walked over to the young woman, his body coming close to her before leaning his head into one of her shoulders. "We don't have to go, Aqua."

[Reno]

Diliza's eyes narrowed at Rebecka's words. Was she implying Volken was not doing a satisfactory job. And her grandson's response ("I hope for that as well") only furthered her anger. Oh, so this one thought himself suited to already take her husband's place did he?

"I see..." Soran said, his look becoming troubled as he heard that their fountains had responded much like Riku's had.
"Well Prince Soran?" Diliza said expectantly and he glanced at her in surprise. "Is that all you have to say? After all this is great practice. You need to learn how to deal with commoners." Her tone seem laced in venom as she spoke and he realized she was trying to make him fumble on purpose. Was she so willing to have his birth right stripped from him that she was willing to create unnecessary conflict.

Unnoticed, the young blond male was glancing between the two royals with a nervous air, disliking the taste of tension between them. Black wings like himself were often claimed to be corrupt - but such a fact was merely... misleading. They simply believed in different ideals and that difference often singled them out. But they weren't born evil - no one was BORN evil.
But Diliza... he felt she did not have her grandson's best interests at heart.

Well, then he'd show her he'd rise to the challenge. "Well thank you for the opportunity Queen Diliza." He said bowing his head respectfully, before turning to the black wings, "Though I would like to make clear you are not commoners to me. You are guests here and I am grateful you have come to update us on the status of Makatza." He knew better than to imply they came for aid - those from Makatza, especially the black wings, were very proud. "Our fountains here have also reacted in a similar way, drawing inner strength to protect themselves. Twilight Fountain, for example, was protecting itself with beach sand."

He ignored Diliza's surprised look. She expected him to have no information and could only half-answer the black wings, leading them into dissatisfaction. He wasn't sure if the news he had would truly calm them though.
"Protect themselves? But why would they need to?" Remedios spoke, his voice soft and surprisingly gentle.

So Soran told them the truth. Eyes went wide when the news of the destroyed fountain passed and only wider still when he mentioned of the battlement that discovered the beasts that Gin's soldiers had discovered and fought off. He knew it could bring panic into Makatza, but they needed to know what danger they were in. He would not send them back without being clear this was no passing shift in Balance. It was to beginning hints of war.


There was a low chuckle that reverberated through Ven's head as he asked whether he had been disregarded or disbarred help. "I think I'll let you believe whatever makes you feel more comfortable." His eyes gave nothing away anyways, and it was a tale Ven would never learn. Instead he - maybe they both were - shocked when the cloth was stripped from his clothing and traded as a bandage for his ignorable wound. It didn't hurt, really. Only when he ran... and walked.... and stood.
But that didn't mean anything, really.

He was still curiously looking at the little bow-knot, as if their was a silent, deeper meaning to it that he couldn't decipher quite yet, and so intent he did not see the hand until it was already there. He might of growled simply due to surprise if it didn't start - oh... oooooo, now that was... ahhh wonderful. His tongue lolled out some as his tail pattered on the soft, stuffed bedding. "And here I believe all the two-leggeds canines were simply degrading themselves. no wonder they do all those silly trick - ahh little to the left? Mmm yes that's the spot." He laid out contently on his side as Ven's comforting hands wandered towards his ribs and started to scratch some making one of his back legs kick some involuntarily. His silly actions were making the blessed laugh, just as they had all those years ago.


There was a pause, before a tentative hand ran through strands of black, dirty hair. Though the Atterian did his best to keep himself clean - especially because he was part-cat and, as she noticed, certain habits of their bestial forms leaked into their human sides - but even still, living in dirt meant he never stayed clean for long. Against her, he felt him still some at the unusual action, knowing she had never done something like this before.

"No. We do." She said softly, and smiled very faintly. "Even if I am going to disappoint him... whats the use of being someone I am not? I know I could never be happy like this. Not as I would... with you." He drew away from her, his eyes wide and her cheeks flushed in a bit of alarm and moved on quickly before he could respond, "And you... you don't deserve this life." She glanced back at the dark cages, knowing of the many others who lived this sheltered life, forever doomed to their bonds. "None of you do..." She whispered softly, despairingly.

[Rikugurl]

Commoners?
COMMONERS!?
The female blonde was not well known for how dainty she was. Quite honestly, she had a pretty bad temper and was easy to judge. She wasn't exactly the poster child of the Makatzu representative but she always did get some answers. There were no rulers there, everything being personal and run with self respect. The people of the kingdom thought they were corrupt but the sides were switching.
She was glad though that Diliza had picked up on her obvious claim that King Volken was doing a terrible job. If fountains were behaving like this under a rule, it didn't matter who it was. There was no excuse.

A small smile spread over her face when the prince covered his grandmother's rude words and considered them guest. That was more like it. She tilted her head some at the mention of beach sand as there were no beaches on Norn. As the prince spoke, the imp that stayed in the back pulled out an old, large book and he began to write, allowing magic ink to keep his quill tip wet. It seemed like he was in charge of recording the information they gained.
"I see..." Rebecka's voice became low as she nodded, her eyes far as if things were coming together. "The Fountain of Memories was destroyed. That would explain why our gravestones have gone blank and our heads feel a bit cloudy."

Prince Soran inclined, making his grandmother huff some as if he were suppose to know this information already.
"Yes. The carvings and marking on gravestones are there to remember the one who passed. Everything we do, your majesty, is touched by magic. Those who are buried are laid to rest on hills and mountains so when the rains come, their decomposing magic will run through the ground, slowly breaking off to allow the soil to become rich. The majority of the magic falls back into pools and bodies of water. This water is transported to all the fountains on Norn, giving them power which in turn, gives us balance. It's almost like a circle of life. The more fountains we have, the more stable the Balance is. And you must know that these fountains are not named for fun... they actually provide the specific magic that they are named after."

Her wings folded and disappeared. "For example, when the Fountain of Music was broken, the purple wings could not reach all their notes and the instruments all played flat. These fountains give us more than just balance. So with the Fountain of Memories completely destroyed, we have no script on the gravestones, old paintings are worn and I am sure any diary kept for long will have blank pages until the Fountain is reborn." The shee pulled her cloak around her tighter and she gave the two a bow. "Thank you for your information. We will return in a moon phase to see if any more information has been pulled." The book was closed and the three turned, walking down the long carpet to the exit.

The queen suddenly called, telling them that they had yet to speak to the king.
The black wings stopped and looked back. "That will be unnecessary. We gained all we needed to know and more from the prince." They all bowed again and left the palace.


"Hehehehehe!" The middle child giggled as he continued to scratch his fingers against the Atterian's fur, seeing what all the new places would make him do. What made him laugh the most was when he saw Terra's leg shake. It was fun and kept his mind off of what he saw earlier that day. His hand slowly rubbed down against Terra's belly, making long motions over his entire chest to abdomen. The wolf seemed to enjoy this too as it was more soothing than the scratches. He rubbed that area for a bit before suddenly leaning over and wrapped his arms around the wolf's neck, holding it tightly as if to give him a hug.


Pointed ears perked as he was hit dumbfounded. He had tried to ignore them, her coquettish remarks, but as the days dwindled, they were harder and harder not to notice. Age was not a big problem in either races but he was an old man... old enough to be her father even. She changed the subject gracefully as always and his eye turned to look in the same direction, seeing the stalls where his brethren laid. He was sure at least one of them were listening but didn't say a word. "Then we should pack for our leave tomorrow evening." Tonight would be their last in the warmth of this stable.

So, their packing began. There was quite a bit such as dried meat, fruit, blankets, small tools such as a hammer and cooking utensils. There were changes of clothes, which surprised Xigbar as he noticed they were not only for women but had slacks and warm shirts. The Atterian needed to keep shifting so he wouldn't become crippled like his brethren and though his seasonal fur grew in, he had none for his human shape. As he packed the sac full of clothes, he paused as he reached the bottom of the pile as he picked up rag after rag. He looked back, seeing Aqua putting away the last of the food before speaking. "What is all this for?"

When she turned back to him, she blushed some and beat around the bush until he got the idea. It was a seriously gross time of the month when females were not producing children. Aqua was planning on starting in a few days.
He placed the bag down and sighed. "Then we can't go."
"Why!?"
"Because they will have dogs or even other Atterians hunting us down and we will be found quickly from your scent."

[Reno]

"Well," Came the voice of the younger male in the group his wings twitching as the starlight struck him, "That was upsetting news." Rebecka, his good friend, was already saying they would advise to keep watch over the fountains night and day until the threat is over but her words paused when she noticed the other simply shaking his head. "Oh no, not that. I had a feeling it was something that devastating if it affected all Shee on Norn."
"Than what?"
"It is just not a pleasant thing to see how different the crown is since Sorias' rule." Soran was no doubt named after the kind, old king and though Remedios, Remy he preferred, did not remember too much about him, his rule had been a promising one. "I believe Soran could step up and be a great king... but I fear the current rule isn't going to let that happen easily, if at all." In fact, for the majority of that time, Soran seemed under-trained for someone in his teens and he couldn't help but wonder if that was of no fault of his own.
Beside him, Orion the imp put in that if a future king could not sense danger, than perhaps that was not a job he was meant to have and he should not worry his mind with it. The blonde hesitated some, unsure if that was fair to expect treachery from family, but simply nodded. Makatza was their problem, not all of Norn. "Let's return home then."


"We'll be awaiting your return!" Soran said cheerfully, though in the back of his mind he worried. Not precisely for their own lost memories... but for the spirit now who must have lived there. He was one of the few not a child or insane who still believed in the spirits who made shelter there. He needed to talk to Riku. He knew the other would have answers.

After a cold parting from his grandmother that left his fingertips slightly frozen, he went back to his room, wings fluttering uneasily on his back. He knew he should worry more about the way his grandmother was treating him - but he let it pass over his mind. He knew part of the reason was because of how much he looked like Jet - and moreso her first husband.

And still no sign of Volken. How convenient. Had they set him up on purpose?

He shook his head, not wanting to think like that. Still it made him more settled that Roxas was no longer meant to be heir. He couldn't imagine his youngest brother handling treatment like that well, nor did he deserve to.

Soran slipped back into his room with a sigh and walked over to the dresser that stood a the far end, opening it and pulling out a book hidden underneath some of the clothing. It had a worn cover, and was very familiar to many who had been around his younger days. It was his diary, were he recorded each dream he had with Riku. But as he pulled open the pages, his heart sunk as he flipped through almost the entire book, finding so many entries just blank.
"Poor Memory..." He mumbled softly, "We'll get your home back. I swear."


Their was a curious prick of ears as the arms wrapped around him, his tail wagging more softly now as he was given the embrace. It was so different and strange... And then Ven backed off with a laugh when a warm, wet tongue slobbered all over his cheek!


"We HAVE to go." Aqua stressed, cursing the one thing that made her a woman - well besides the assets that is. "This... bleeding time can take up to seven days. I'll be married before it's over. I'll just travel in the river half the time. It'll break our trail."
In this season, on this weather? She would be sick before they even got half-way there!
"Well I'll just have to tough it out."
She couldn't just 'tough it out'. He wouldn't allow that!
She growled in frustration, "Well it's either that or I get pregnant to stop it so unless you're offering me your DICK as a solution, I suggest you stop complaining!"

[Rikugurl]

The sun was bright and the rays made the ocean glitter and sparkle. The sky was blue and empty of clouds except for black ones slowly accumulating in the distance. The only true oddity on his world was the new black void across the ocean. It looked as if the creator of this world left out a chunk, forgetting to fill it in with the colors and life that was around it. The other thing that was different was the mainland. It was no longer there. Instead, rolling waves took it's place, making it look like it did when the prince was young.

Silver hair tickled the teenager's nose as it blew in his face, his eyes peering over the ocean at the clouds that were slowly building up.
"RIKU!"
Slowly, he turned, having to pull his hair behind his ear to keep it out of his face. "Sora..." He sighed softly as his friend rushed down the dock to come closer.


"A-AH! Hahaahahahaahaha~~" Ventus laughed, smiling as he felt the warm tongue on his face and didn't mind how rough it was against his skin. He wrapped his hands around Terra's collar gently and started to stroke the fur back and forth, making him look like a lion for a split second then back to a normal wolf the next. The blonde slowly leaned down again and nuzzled the black fur against his face, now slowly rubbing Terra's chin. Since this made the Atterian pull his face up, their forehead's met and blue eyes looked into one another.


Xigbar's eye widened as she snapped at him, making him frown a moment later before slowly turning away, placing what was left in the bag. He was only looking out for her best interest and there was no point in her going, getting sick and dying before they reached their destination. He wouldn't allow that to happen though and if this how she wanted it, he would make sure to work harder so her scent would be washed away. When the three bags were ready, he carried them over to a large stack of hay and carefully placed them behind, covering them up well so they couldn't be found during the next day. Hopefully, they wouldn't have a random pen check like they did sometimes to make sure nothing was suspicious. That only started after the incident between him and Sai.

"You should get some rest..."

[Reno]

Sora was relieved to see the silverette - half worried he might not be able to come here at all with the chaos outside. But Aquamarine eyes went wide when the brunette practically flung himself at the other, bringing him close for a tight hug. It had been a long time since he had done that...

"Oh Riku... I'm glad you're alright..." The brunette said, voice laced with concern. He pulled away, looking around the island and frowned, noticing how different it was. Of course, even here memory was affected. "Almost everything's gone..."

The only thing that reassured him all was okay was the shimmer of gold in the sky, noticeable at random intervals. He knew the taste of that magic; it was his own, protecting Riku and his Fountain.


After a pregnant pause where even the fingers stopped scratching as they looked at one another, an unsure voice invaded Ven's mind, "We should get some rest, it's been a long day." He pulled away slowly, glad his wolfen face didn't give away his emotions and Ventus wasn't smart enough to read the signs of his body as he settled back down on the bed, tail tucking underneath his legs. Blue eyes watched Ven closely as he laid back onto the bed with a few hisses of pain.


"Yes you're right."

The gate was shut, more for show than anything, as Aqua peered in at the other, knowing tomorrow would be their last day on the farm and then... then they would be gone. Tomorrow everything would change. She gave him a hesitant, unsure smile before nodding. "Goodnight Xigbar..."


Lights like zipping fireflies lit up the darkened battlefield, golden eyes watching with extreme attention on the flexing muscles and rushing movements of his blonde charge. His clothes were very modest but small and well-fitting for the training session as he and another nearly identical blonde fluttered beside him.
On the ground, dodging and reflecting attacks, was the eldest brother.
"Ventus, more energy! Pull it from your stomach! Feel the heat burst up you're body!" Came the sharp order of the other blonde, before taking a deep breath and blowing outwards, a twisting inferno spinning down and literally covering Soran. As it faded and smoke sizzled the scene around them, Roxas gave a satisfactory nod. "Like that!"

Since the discovery of the fallen fountain, training had been doubled and the Triplets trained had been... heh, tripled. But Terra, who lay on the ground beside a scantily clad imp, he was hardly paying attention. All he was paying attention to was his own mind, rattled with the thoughts of the dream he had had just a morning ago.
The bedsheets were of velvet and his clothing, white and thin like silk so that the milky whiteness of his skin could be easily seen. He was collared to the bed, and though his hands and legs were free it was as if they too were restrained. He could not move. He could not free himself even if he tried. What shocked him more, however, was when an invisible touch seared his skin in a too-pleasant way, like fingertips, moving up and up and up, sneaking under the material of his pants as if it wasn't even there.
"Mmmhmmm!" He groaned lolling his head back with a little gasp at his lips.
"You look like your enjoying it~" Came a lustful purr, making his eyes roll to find the source and saw Ven sitting on the far side of his room, arms crossed and eyes glowing yellow as they did when he was controlling magic. He wonder, momentarily, if this was actually Roxas though. He knew of this... magical foreplay thanks to his imp after all who very freely spoke of his sexual escapades when he thought no one would hear.
But no, those wings were red.
"V-Ve-oooooh." Terra arched his hips off the bed, purring in delight when he felt something rubbing along the base of his tail, while another unseen warmed had wrapped around his growing length, "Veeen.... What are you do-ING! to me?! Haa sh... haaa..."
"I'm just practicing."
"Pr-Practi- AH!" He fell to the bed, writhing as a sudden shock ran through him, unable to place what was happening as his entire lower body was suddenly in heat. But it came again and again, his body jerking on the bed uselessly to gain more attention.
"Ah, there's your prostrate. I wonder if true penetration feels better though."
"Ven, I'm gonna-"

And then he woke up, confused and slightly appalled at himself. Himself... and a Shee? Now that was just... how could he even be in heat?! Mating season was a long way off!
And yet, when Ventus got changed this day, he snuck a glance at him this time, eyes spying over that milky white skin, unmarred except for the two thin, almost see-less scars on his back where his wings would thrust from. And he found himself captivated.

He was so engaged in his thoughts, he didn't see it. But he heard it, and it made him rise to his feet in alarm.
CRASH!
"AHHHH!"
"SORAN!" Twin voices called to the scream, Roxas seeming frozen with his hands on his bow, fingers stringing a new arrow that was slowly dissipating into nothingness, the look of horror on his face. They must of switched to target practice. Soran was on the ground, his hand over his shoulder and...

Terra's ears lifted and his eyes went wide, the scent of Shee blood filling the air and instinctively making his mouth water. That power...
"What happened?" He called in confusion, seeing the wide-eyed and slightly frightened imp beside him trying to distract himself from that smell that made his stomach clench in pain from hunger.

What had happened? Roxas had shot two arrows, one right after the other. On accident, the first had broken Soran's barrier and the second... well let's just say it was a blessing it had not struck a wing. About two inches higher, and it would have.

[Rikugurl]

"SORAN!" Red wings suddenly beat quickly, carrying the young prince through the trees towards his brother who was laying on the ground. His saddles dug into the wet ground, as it had rained just this morning. He helped his brother sit, seeing the red that stained his cloak where a light arrow had hit. There was a burn mark and wounded flesh but it was quickly covered by his hand as he began to apply pressure. "Soran... you're going to be ok. We'll get you to Riri." Slowly, he helped his elder brother stand, his ears only perking slightly when he heard his youngest brother touch down behind him. And that's when he heard it. The excuses. The apologies but every time his little brother spoke, a powerful pulse of anger push through the veins of passionate Shee.

"I don't want to hear it!" He finally snapped, his gaze dark as he looked at his brother. "All day you have been using Soran as a target practice, of course HE WAS GOING TO GET HURT! If I didn't know better, I'd say you were trying to get him killed and you were almost successful!" When his identical twin started to defend himself, Ventus growled, as if he was like the wolf that was watching them. "SHUT UP!" Terra could feel it, Axel could feel it. Anyone close enough could feel a burst of power shoot from the young red wing as his wings started to glow.

There was a whistle, and then the sound of hooves. A beautiful large, black and white horse came from the trail and towards her master. She stood still as the blue wing prince was placed on her back and the weight from her master added. Ventus took her reins but before he snapped them, he looked back at Roxas. "I don't know what Volken did to you... but I don't even know who you are anymore." There was silence between them, only the sound of Soran's hissing and groaning in the background. "Come on, Terra..." He called softly and he was gone, the horse quickly caring them back to the palace.


Muscles pulled and a jaw was becoming sore after hours of having it opened. He knew it was almost time to retire since the sun was no longer aiding light for the mill. The cranks were pulled and they walked in a continuous circle for hours. A golden eye looked upwards, seeing the new guard that was placed their quite awhile ago. When he passed him, there was a sigh through the handle he was pushing. All day, his mind was clouded. He usually thought of the same thing every day like what does fresh meat taste like again, or if Aqua would brush him out, or Sai would like some more broken bones. It had changed to thinking about their escape route and then to making sure they had everything they needed.

Now, all he could think about was her scent. Her tracking. Sure, the rain would wash it away and obscure it but it would kill her. What was the point of her going like that only to die? He would be considered weak if he allowed her to perish like that. She was a beautiful young woman who had many more years to live than he did and have her die before him, well, there was just no excuse. All he could think of was her crude way of putting an option. One that he was considering for hours. He wanted her... and from what he was letting on, what her body was telling him, what her scent was hinting, she wanted him.

Why was he thinking so much. The answer should be obvious.


Gentle sounds of water filled the large room. An off white sponge ran over milky smooth skin, wiping away all the dirt and sweat from practice. A toned leg lifted from the water and suds, gently being cleaned as well. Scrapes and digs from the day were washed away and healed as the water ran over them.
"♪Hmmmmm~~~~
Mmm....mmmmmmmm~"
He hummed sweetly, trying to keep his mind from today's events. Was he being too harsh? No, he wasn't. Fear was still clinging to his soul, the flashes of all the attacks Roxas sent towards Soran alive in his head.

"Ahhhh..." A small smile ran over his lips as he declined into the water, resting his head on the pillow that was attached to it and his back pressed against the side. The warm water covered his body all the way up to his neck. It was soothing and let his muscles relax. He hardly remembered that Terra was in the room, having become so comfortable with the Atterian around. Volken and even his father warns about his guard but how could Terra hurt him? They were actually getting along. If the wolf wanted to kill him, he could easily do so in his sleep. Suddenly, he dipped down, holding his breath as he went underwater. A few moments later, he surfaced and pulled his hair back from his face.

Toes curled around the plug and pulled it, allowing the water to drain before carefully standing. His body was dripping wet and fully in the nude. Bright, brilliant wings suddenly appeared, making the room brighter and they fluttered, sending droplets of water all over the area. "Nnnngh... Terra? Can you hand me my robe?"


The guard was asked to stand aside again and the young Umi woman walked inside the barn for what she believed would be the last time. As she walked down the line of doors, she paused at each one, looking inside and speaking softly to each one. Her good-byes. She was serious tonight, even having worn her traveling outfit. When she opened the last door, she could see the tanned man she knew so well tightening up the bags and getting everything ready. There was a weak line of light around the back of the stable where Xigbar had cut to make their escape out the back possible.

Black hairs moved and a golden eye met blue. "Good evening."

[Reno]

"Mmm..." Came a soft groan,eyes squinted against the bright lid that made his eyelids burn red. Red like fire... or blood.
He turned his head away, mumbling something vague when he felt a hand run over his forehead. He smiled gently, recognizing that touch. "Riku..."

He must be asleep. It was the only way that the sun could be shining on him at this time of day. Oh yes, and the only way Riku could be there.

Slowly his memory came back to him and he remembered. The training session. It was just like an normal one or so he thought. But hearing what Ven claimed...
"I'd say you were trying to get him killed and you were almost successful!"
He had chastised the blonde lightly through pained breathes as he was rushed to the medical room but he doubted the infuriated sibling of his even heard him. But now, he couldn't help but wonder... was he right? Those excuses...
"Soran! Soran are you alright?! I didn't mean to! I must have put too much power."
"What?! How dare you imply I would EVER hurt-"
"WELL WHAT DO YOU KNOW VENTUS?!"
No, how could he think that? Roxas was his brother. They LOVED each other.

His eyes slitted open, sighing gently as he heard the concerned voice above him ask what had happened. He was usually never lethargic here. "I was in a training session with Roxas and Ventus and got injured is all. I couldn't hold up my barrier for some reason and one of Roxas' arrows got me right in the shoulder. Now they're fighting. Ven seems to think Rox did it on purpose." He frowned, seeming more troubled by this than himself and his own wounds.
Above him, Riku asked if HE would be alright? "Hmm? Oh yeah. 'Course I am. Riri said I just need a few days rest is all. Roxas' light arrows are pretty damaging to take." He chuckled some, though he wasn't sure if it was funny. The shining arrow had scorched part of his magical system, leaving him feeling a bit weak.


In the corner of the bathroom, curled up on the fluffy rug, was Terra, taking his own 'bath', so to speak as he licked at his leg and trimmed his claws. He had been in the tub many times before as he had monthly cleaning and grooming now. His coat was always meant to shine and be perfectly presentable as he was a pet of royalty. He didn't mind these days too much because Ven found it amusing when he splashed about and swiped at the bubbled that floated on the top of the water.
And they were, overall, very relaxing...

He could use a bit of relaxation after today. He seemed to have been walking a fine line a temptation and desire since this morning's... episode. Soran's blood-scent was still burning his nostrils and if he just thought of it veeeery carefully, he could remember the delicious odor tingling his taste buds and making his body hunger for something he didn't fully understand. In fact, he really didn't understand it. He had been around Shee's blood before - why until now as it not affected him so?

He was about to give that more careful thought, but his mind derailed when he heard Ven. His looked back, knowing he probably shouldn't as he knew what he would see but he did anyways... and his eyes went wide before he looked speedily away when he got sight of that perfectly pale and nude creature.
"Ummm....Yes"

This temptation was probably worse though in every way. Sure, killing Soran for his blood would end with him killed - but desiring Ventus for mating? Now that was a living death, because he knew he could never act on such thoughts.

He gripped the robe by it's sleeve and tugged it from it's hook before dragged it across the floor to where the other was standing and waiting. It didn't occur to him that he would need to raise his head before he saw the hand reaching out in the line of his vision, almost impatiently.
Come on Ter, you can do this. Just don't look at his penis. Don't look at his penis. Don't look at his- He rose his head and he looked - straight at a dangling piece of reproduction hanging between the other's legs. DAMNIT.

Throughly embarrassed with his fur feeling hot, the moment the rope was snatched from him he turned his back on the other, and stared at the wall.


Emerald eyes were watching Roxas pace back and forth and back and forth with boredom under his skin. He made a whine, mixed with a slight plea, but when blue eyes glared at him he shut up quick, knowing the other was rather upset.
Once certain Axel was going to leave him be, Roxas continued to pace his room, the carpet folding up some in grooves as he did so. Fury was alighted in his mind and one might think it was because of the accusation his own brother made against him.

But that was not on his mind. No it was not on his mind at all. Because only he truly new what occurred as he was the one behind the bow.
Blue eyes narrowed with careful concentration, holding his bow aloft and pointed towards his brother. "Despell." He hissed and with the magic flowing from his fingertips so fast it seared the nerves some, he shot one arrow and then a second right after. With a dark, wispy purple outline, the arrow hit the barrier and it shattered with a sound not unlike glass breaking - but the sound startled his brother and he jerked just in time for the second arrow to miss it's true mark - inches just over his shoulder and through the wing, and into embedded itself in the marrow and bone of his shoulder.

He had been SO CLOSE. "DAMN IT!" Roxas kicked his dresser irritably, feeling little comfort in the way the wooden structure shook. And, even though he pulled off his acting quite well, Ven had seen through him. What now would he do? A training accident could no longer be his plan and with his sibling's suspicions he had to be even more sneaky than that...

Or perhaps... he would simply have to get rid of them both. There was no proof once Soran was out of the way that his parents would not force HIS predetermined role onto the one who looked identical to him instead!


"Hi," Came the response, the woman smiling back at him, though her tension could be read all over. But with it, was mixed anticipation; she looked about as eager to leave as she didn't. For Xigbar, the thought of leaving was no difficult thing. What life did he have besides this one of slavery?

But for Aqua... she would miss her father. Her brother. Yes, even her mother. She had lived a fairly successful life after all and for her, she actually had to weigh the options of what she would be giving him by leaving this world forever. But then she looked the things around her - the world beyond the wall and the flowing river that spoke of so much more - and knew she needed to be out there too.

She undid the clasp of his cage for the last time, opening it with a gleam in her snowy blue eyes. "Are you ready for this?"

[Rikugurl]

Aquamarine eyes peered down at the faint burn mark against Sora's skin. From what he noticed, it still looked like it was burning from the inside. What kind of magic was this? Certainly none he remembered. Slowly a pale finger reached down and he touched the wound gently, the pressure still making the prince hiss.The Shee then watched with curious eyes when the guardian licked the finger that had just touched his wound and frowned. When the boy inquired, Riku glanced down at him. "Huh? Oh.... it's nothing." Yea, Soran wasn't buying that for a moment. "It's just... this magic tastes familiar."
"Familiar?"
"Mmmm.... I believe I tasted it in the wind. I was once a human, you know... but now as a guardian, I'm pretty sensitive to magic, just like you and the Atterians."

"When did you 'taste' it, Ri?"
That question made the silverette frown more and his eyes became darkened from thought. His words could trouble his friend and though they were friends, he was also a guardian and it was his duty to keep the Balance and aid the Shee in the right pass. Some roads traveled were harder than others. He turned his head, looking away and towards the void. "I smelt it when the clouds came..."


"Haa.... haa...." Hot breath passed fanged teeth but he knew he couldn't make anymore noise or he'd surely be punished... and not in a good way. For all he knew, he'd be punished without saying anything, just being there, under Roxas's mercy and the only soul he could release his rage upon. It wouldn't be the first time. Quite honestly, it didn't bother the imp any. Loving sex, regular sex, angry sex, violent sex. It was all the same to him. As long as it was sex. Countless amount of objects were forced into him and he took them all, loving each one even if they made him cry. His body was numb to pain and no matter how much he bled, he still cried and begged for more.

He loved the spankings the most and when his master degraded him as he slapped his ass. Just thinking about it made his erect member weep. What he hated though, was this. Left in a corner, chained up with his legs bound and his arms tied back. Even his is tail was weighted so he couldn't pleasure himself. And lastly, his master's favored toy wrapped around the base of his shaft, making it impossible for release without his say.
"Mahhh....master...."


The robe was pulled over his shoulders and for a moment, his wings disappeared before reappearing, the slits in his robe making way for them to be free as they needed to dry. When he turned, pulling the strings tight, he noticed Terra just standing there, looking away. "What's wrong?" He questioned, running a hand across the wolf's back before carefully stepping out of the tub and onto a plush mat. "You've been tense all day...."


The Atterian turned tho his two-legged master, his own eyes gleaming. "Actually, I am not." This made Aqua tense but then she looked confused when he smiled. "At least not at this very moment." He quickly added, his own two legs slowly carrying himself over to her. "The moon is hidden behind the clouds so we have no light to guide us. We'll have to wait until they move." He chuckled, seeing how anxious the woman suddenly looked but he made sure to catch her attention when he presented something to her. "But tonight is our lucky night." It was a flower and a rare one at that. It was called a Phoenix Star and it only bloomed when the Balance was right. Or, if the person who found it was granted luck by the magic of this world.

She took the flower gently, asking him where he found it. "On my way back from the mill. It was by the door and I was able to pick it without anyone noticing." He suddenly took the flower from her before gently placing it in her hair. "I thought it would look nicer here." He smiled handsomely as he looked at the contrast. "Looks like I was right..." Rough hands brushed against her cheek, pulling some of the blue strands from her face before leaning down. He had seen it before, though found it odd. The way humans showed affection. It was nothing like a lick on the cheek or helping them clean. Instead, their lips pressed together.

[Reno]

"The clouds...?" Blue eyes blinked, a little disoriented and obviously confused, but he followed Riku's line of sight, seeing him staring at the storm clouds at this world's end and suddenly he frowned. He stilled remembered their appearance several weeks ago. At first it was just one tiny little cloud but over time they had grown, multiplied, and gained strength.

And like a storm, with the wind whipping and thunder on the horizon was the day that... Memory was destroyed.

The brunette frowned seriously, his mind working in slow turns. Did that mean Roxas was the cause of it? But no... that wasn't possible. He KNEW what Roxas was doing during the time of the destruction - in fact, merely remembering it made his cheeks flush some.

But...

"The Balance...?" He mumbled drawing the guardian's attention. "Roxas... he is a black and white wing. He's most connected to the Balance and so are the fountains. If the Balance is being tainted..." His throat closed up some, unable to say it though his mind continued without him.
Was he being tainted too?


Yes... yes that was good. But how would he do that? He couldn't actually kill them both at once - that was too suspicious. If only Ventus had been struck down in that battle...
Blue eyes narrowed in concentration. Maybe he could utilize that monster for his purpose though. Yes... that could work. He would simply have to find a way to drive him mad. But how? Atterians were very resistant to mind control, even in their weakened states.
He would need to get some of Latium's books and-
"Mahhh....master...."
The blonde hesitated, before looking around his eyes narrowed angrily when he was interrupted AGAIN.
"Didn't I tell you to be quiet?" He saw the other flinch and it sent a thrill through him. He owned Axel so very completely now and that possession excited him. He stalked over, like a cat getting ready to pounce on it's prey, and he gripped the other's hair, pulling his head back some, "What do you want? Because it better be DAMN important to be breaking my train of thought imp, or I swear you'll regret it." He hissed.


Even that simple touch sent his hairs up and he shifted on his paws a bit nervously as the other asked him if he was alright. "I uh... I'm fine. It has just been a... trying day." He nodded satisfactorily at that vague answer, standing and hurrying his way to the door, waiting for Ventus to open the door.


Moonlight? Wasn't he a cat? Didn't cats see well in the dark? She didn't get to say that though before... she was given a flower.
Her breath whooshed out of her lungs at the sight of the Phoenix Star, knowing well they shouldn't even be blooming with the Balance so off. She took the flower slowly, feeling the soft petals on her fingertips and though she was not typically girly, she did know what these flowers meant. Due to their bursting red color, they were aligned with the meaning of the red-winged blessed. They were a sign of passion and were often said to bloom best for those in deep love.

She usually thought such overly romantic things were, like the fountain's fairytales, nothing but a myth. So why, when he placed the flower in her hair and why, when his hand brushed her cheek in an electric touch, and WHY when he lent down, her breath hitched with anticipation before her lips were pressing back to his - WHY... did she suddenly believe it?

[Rikugurl]

"Sora, don't worry about it now." The guardian's voice broke the brunette's worry almost instantly, as if it was the cure to calm his nerves. Suddenly, the pale fingers were on his shirt and pulling at it, making the young shee flail a bit as his shirt was tugged up. The blue wing looked rather embarrased as his bare chest was exposed, almost as pale as the guardian since the sun wasn't so hot on Norn, giving him tan lines. "This may sting a bit." Riku warned without announcing what he was going to do but the prince learned soon enough.

A cold palm pressed up against Sora's wound and the prince did hiss as a cold shock ran through his shoulder. His body shivered for a moment but the feeling stopped when Riku pulled away. "There." The silverette smiled and blue eyes looked down, gasping in shock as he saw his nasty little wound completely healed. "Now come on! Let's make a sand castle. I'll race you to the beach." The guardian stood and turned, rushing over the bridge. "Just dig your feet into the sand! You'll get your energy back!"


"A-AAH!!" The imp cried as his hair was tugged. Saliva poured from his mouth as his lustful eyes looked up into the prince's. "T-too m-much..." He panted, his body trembling from his master's touch. "I... idea....I have....a-an idea." Fangs clenched when his hair was pulled tighter, his master asking why would he listen to a little slut like him. "I....saaaw.... h-how he looked at me~ He wantssss what you haaaave...." He purred between his pants, his lips curling up to a wicked grin.


"Yea... I guess you're right." Ventus's feet rubbed against the rug before they plopped across the cold tile and he opened the door, allowing Terra to head into his room which was ready for slumber. "I'll have to talk to Master Gin tomorrow about letting us have personal training. I'm worried about Soran." He sighed, shutting the door behind him and pulled his robe over his head. Again, he was well exposed as he dried his hair but Terra was smart and did not turn around, quickly heading to his bed on the floor. The wet robe was hung up and a silk one was pulled over in it's place. "No sleeping on the bed tonight?" The blonde frowned, watching the Atterian as he made his way to his own, ridiculously enormous bed.

When he got a decline, he paused, finding it strange as Terra made it a habit to sleep at the bottom of the bed or even by his side at night. Last time he slept on the floor was a few months ago when their connection wasn't so strong. "Are you sure? It's kind of chilly this season." Still, the wolf declined, saying he few warm and needed to cool down. "I hope you're not coming down with something..." Still, the young prince made his way onto the bed and flopped down in the middle, laying on his back so his wings could continue to dry. Unknown to him, he was giving Terra a straight shot of his little perky butt.


Like nature had intended, the feeling of her lips pushing back against his sealed their destiny. She accepted his advance and for Atterians, it meant that she was agreeing to be his. His hand ran down her neck gently, feeling the twine pulled around it where the charm he made her awhile ago was hung from. She wore it everyday under her blouse or sometimes over it when she was feeling risky. He was sure her brother would have questioned it but he did not know what happened beyond these four walls. But from here on, he wanted to know everything, wanted to see everything, and wanted to spend every waking hour with this human.

A tongue experimentally touched her lips and once again, a bolt of pleasure jutted through his body when he felt her own touch his. Then, it was nearly instant. There was no thought behind it as their kiss deepened and his arms brought her closer to his warmth. The flower that had been placed in her hair suddenly fell down onto the floor, being forgotten as it's truth had been discovered. It was no longer needed for these two.
Saliva dripped from their mouths as they broke away, soft, warm pants heating their faces. A single golden eye looking into the deep, beautiful swirling blues before him and as he panted, a question was slowly falling from the tip of his tongue, making him whisper.

"Aqua.... will you be my mate?"

[Reno]

The brunette slowly sat up, watching after the guardian curiously before poking his shoulder some. Amazing... was it healed on his physical form too or only in this spiritual world, to ensure he gained a good rest? He wasn't sure how strong Riku's magic was but...
"SAND CASTLE?!"

Who needed to dig their feet in? Sora practically went SOARING over the sand on his two feet though, as they reached the other side, he found it hard to stop and went careening into Riku, laughing as they went spiraling into sand. Luckily it was a soft landing, but he heard the other spitting up some sand. "Haha, Sorry Ri-KUUU!"
Suddenly, the other was wrestling HIM down into the sand, their plans momentarily forgotten in their boyish struggle. Sora, though he was certainly much stronger then he looked, was still a little sluggish, so Riku easily overpowering him, holding his legs down before squirming fingers brushed against his ribs. "Ah, Riku! No... NO DON'T YOU DARE!" And started to tickle him, "AHA! AHAHAHAHA! NO! RIKU!!!"


Blue eyes continued to be narrow at him, for such a time, Axel was near sure he would be punished. But then, slowly, the grip in his hair relaxed, and the angry fire in those blue eyes died, giving way for thoughtfulness. "Hmm... To have sex with an imp... yes that would certainly put his Balance at risk. Maybe he will even grow ill and die of natural causes, then no blame can fall on me!" He said, with a disturbing amount of glee for someone who wished to do such harm to his sibling.

"But..." He gripped Axel's hard tighter, while another hand dipped down below, squeezing the neglected and weeping member deliciously, purring his words now, "You'll remember who you belong to, hmm? Who do you belong to, Axel?"


The only thing I am coming down with is insanity, and I think there is no cure for that. He thought but did not say, instead softly reassuring the other he was fine, while watching intently on the grooves of his ass through the blanket. Another flush of heat rushed through him, making his lower body clench and he knew tonight he again would have dreams.


What were they doing? It seemed maddening that they would be kissing in a situation like this - and enjoying it no less! They were going to be runaways - dear Norn, they might not even survive and yet they were foolish enough for this.
Yet Aqua was a brave person - and she knew she would face the world if she had to, even in Makatza, for what she desired. And all of a sudden, she realized what that was. Why no other suitor could stir her heart or take her interest.

It was already gone long before they even could consider her.

So when she answered the heated question, it was with a surety as if she had known all along what would happen and was just waiting for him to give the signal. "Yes, I will."

[Rikugurl]

A wicked grin was plastered on the guardian's face as he continued to tickle the shee senseless, having never realized how ticklish he had been. He honestly never knew anyone so ticklish before! Perhaps this was the prince's only weak point behind those powerful defense spells. It was a silly thought that maybe Roxas had sent a tickle arrow that broke through the barrier but he knew it was more poisonous than that. After a good five minutes of fun - or pure torture- Riku pulled away and laughed, seeing Soran sprawled out on the sand, completely tickled out. He had tears in his eyes and was panting, unable to get a word out.

He kinda looked... cute.

He closed his eyes and smirked, his head shaking some which made the sun's rays reflect off his silver hair. "Come on, you dope." He teased, lending the faerie his hand and helped him up.


He was waiting for it. His body tensed, his nerves at the edge. Would he be slapped, kicked, yelled at? Would he have bruises? Or burns? Or---
Emerald eye lit up when those fingers allowed his hair to fall some, seeing how he had pleased his master. Just because he was a sex object, didn't mean he couldn't think. Luckily he was given this privilege and he was sure others of his profession, if one may call it that, didn't.

There was a hiss as his red strands were grabbed but purred as a lower organ was taken too, making his red, devilish tongue run over his dry lips. "Of course~" He purred, and if he had the mind, would have been offended as all his life consisted of was the blonde, black and white winged Shee. His tail would have wagged if it could but instead, his wings flapped, excited that his idea was accepted by such a powerful man. "You are master~~ The future king of Norn~"


"Then we won't be leaving for awhile~"

Furred ears flickered in the other stables, the beasts inside listening to the slow beginnings of faint calls. It sounded rather painful at first, making some of the Atterian's further away uncomfortable and maybe even a little worried for their respected caretaker. However, as a smell started to fill the barn, they could all guess the two-legged was either fine or being killed in a rather disrespectful away. As her voice started to lift, the tone of it changed gradually and it settled some of their minds knowing it wasn't the later. Large heads went back to rest on straw, their own paws or blankets, now turning their attention away to get them what little privacy they had.

He was hoping this wouldn't have happened in such a horribly unpleasant atmosphere. She deserved better than that but he quickly realized it wasn't so much the place but who it was with that ultimately mattered. His mating had been late and he still did not know that he had a nephew that was around the same age as his young mate but he would make sure, like any of his kind, that the Tellus name would live on.
A strong hand wrapped around her panting mouth, holding it tight so that her voice was muffled before he proceeded to mark her. She screamed behind his hand as red blood dripped down her nude back as the skin above her right shoulder blade was ripped off.

Her blood held no power but it was the sweetest he had ever tasted, and strong. Strong because of the woman she was already and now strong for the woman she had just become.
Aqua Tellus.



"Wow!" A bright and cheery voice exclaimed, looking at the bare shoulder of the young king-to-be. "Your wound is completely healed!" It was Firi who was asked by her father to check in on Sora in the early morning. Not so surprisingly, he was already up, just resting in his bed like Riri had ordered. "You're saying Twilight did this?" She asked again, reaching out and gently touching where the nasty burn had been. "I never thought you were lying but... but now it has to be true. There's no other way you could have gotten better so soon after being hit by a light arrow."

She pouted some as he stood up, explaining how amazing his best friend was. "Ah, it's too bad you can't see him all the time... but seeing him every night is pretty close! You really have a gift to be visited by a guardian so routinely!" She gave him a bright smile, almost as bright as his own. The smile faded though when she saw Sora in deep thought. "What is it?"
She tilted her head, listening as he told her the guardian had told him to visit his fountain tonight because he wanted him to meet someone special. She chuckled, seeing the blue wing blush in jealously, stating that he thought only HE was special to Ri--- Twilight.


The sounds of hurried footsteps echoed through the large hallway as the balanced winged prince made his way towards his brother's room. He had to appologize of course. The servants bowed their head as he passed by, a little shocked not to see his servant in tow. However, when he turned the corner to the royal hallway, he was suddenly interrupted as another Shee got into his way and for once, didn't get out of it. "Morning, Roxas!" A small, cheerful voice filled his head which actually made him grunt at first but when he looked down some, he realized who it was. Lady Lilo. This young girl, the age of 11 now, was the daughter of Lady Firi and Sir Gin. She started this nasty habit when she was around five. The habit being following Roxas around. His mother had said it was cute because she obviously liked him a lot and who knew, they might got up to one day marry.


"Here, try this one." The short blonde pulled up a beautiful jade cloak up to a taller figure, looking this way and that to see what he would look like. "Hmmmmm..... no. I don't like that color. It doesn't look good on you." The cloak was discarded into a basket and he pulled up a purple one. "Hehehehee, this one won't do either." The prince and his 'pet' were out shopping this fine morning, looking for the perfect cloak for the hairy monster. However, no eyes could see them as they were given a special area that had a few stalls. It was designed for bridesmaids to dress up and talk amongst themselves without anyone seeing to spoil the surprise. They had the whole place to themselves.

The cloak was laid down and he shook his head. "Maybe you should look for a cloak you like." He smiled, completely giving up. He needed to buy Terra a cloak if they were going to get him to Makatzu and he would need to get it tailored to 'fit' some assets. The man before him had very poor posture, slouching more than a few degrees and still wobbly on his two legs. He looked awkward, only in a robe with a big fluffy tail hanging in the back and ears sticking out of his head. "I'll leave you be. Call me when you find something."


A black tail swished back and forth as he tested the moist land. They had to keep in the wetlands until the rain picked up again as it would cover their trail nicely. They left before the sun rose and so far, their cautiousness and sense of tracking allowed them to leave the Umi property with ease. Now, they were on the outskirts, trying to get as far as possible before Aqua's absences was noticed. She had told her father the night before that she would be heading into two early to find her wedding gown and she would not have breakfast at home. Hopefully, it would by them quite a few hours. However, when they realized both Atterian and daughter were gone, the sirens would go off and they would be hunted.

But he was ready.

He climbed some rocks, and made it effortlessly to the top of a large hill before looking over, seeing Norn stretch out before him. Slowly he looked back, seeing the blue haired human making her way up the trail slowly. He had offered to help but she declined every time until he just stopped asking. "Aqua... you need to see this." He grinned. This sight, the sight of freedom, only made him more determined that freedom was just a bit a ways.
It had to be.

[Reno]

"I don't understand how he could have me meet anyone anyways. Ever since we have been meeting," This made Firi chuckle at Soran's innocence and ignorance (in Norn, to be 'meeting' with another often implied a romantic relationship), "He had never mentioned another. And I have never seen them and we have known each other since... Since forever." He frowned some, not liking he could no longer remember the accurate date when it was always so clear before.

"Firi... any news on those creatures or the fountain yet?" He brought up in sudden concern.


There was a hesitance, before a slow almost reluctant nod, "Good morn' Lilo. I am just off to see my brother." He implied, hoping she would realize he was in an urgent hurry and would stay out of his way. But, knowing his luck, that was not going to be meant to be.


"Alright..." Terra spoke shakily, watching the other leave before he again looked at the cloaks, feeling awkward about it even still. Putting on clothes for the first time, which was many moons ago, was probably the most uncomfortable experience he's ever been through. They were so... ITCHY. And... uncomfortable! And, because his clothing could not be tailoring, they didn't fit well either.

Particularly the pants, which had been too long and he was always tripping over them. One day, he simply grew sick of it, and after managing to steal a needle from a passing royal tailor, he fixed the problem himself, hemming the pants and bringing in the waist so they fit perfectly.

It wasn't until later, when Ven was chuckling at him, that he realized 'sewing' was a girl's art.

But a cloak should be easy. It had to be bigger than him and with a hood, but unnoticeable so he did not draw attention. So, while Soran would have squealed and taken it off the rack instantly, he skipped past the bright yellow cloak - and didn't even bother with the deep shades of red.

Instead, he went to where Ven was waiting for him, showing him the beige colored cloak. Shabby, but nice and neutral - and large enough to fit his frame and could be pulled over his ears. "How is this?"


"I'll see it when I get there." She said in return, moving her way up slowly. Though she had always been a bit more 'free' and 'boyish' in her life, she had still never worked her body so hard before. It also did not help that their was still a slight ache between her legs, where her virgin blood was spilled and a much worse ache against her shoulder, making it impossible to hold a bag on it.

That was why Xigbar was carrying two and she the third. As if that was not the plan all along.

Still, she supposed she could have asked for his assistance - if only she were not too proud for that. So instead, she moved at a snail's pace up the way, slowly making it up and over the hill to stand beside the other. And then she looked out. "Wow..." They were fairly high - they could see the tops of the trees and the copious vegetation growing for miles all around. In the distance she heard birds of paradise calling freely in the air, and the scuffling, scrawling sounds of the forest. But it was deep, and thick.

"We'd best stay close together, it will be easy to get lost." Aqua mumbled wisely, knowing it would be much darker on the forest floor and in the night, completely non-navigational.