___“I‘m in no mood to tolerate dull witted antics.” Erik dryly spat, letting his cane fall back to the ground. His dull glassy eyes barely detected the fiery intensity glaring back.
___Happily kicking his short legs in his seat, Alex watched David’s face twitch, barely hiding the anger brewing inside him. The child picked up his mug, small eyes eagerly darting between the two men, as he commenced to take another sip of his drink. Nina on the other hand, was simply unresponsive. While any other woman would have been worried, even mildly intrigued, she of course felt only the room's draft.
___“The fact you‘re a noble wont stop me from beating your ass." David warned, his patience wearing dangerously thin.
___“If you honestly think your daft, commoner filth could ever lay a hand on me your welcome to try…” he tauntingly replied, raising his arms in invitation. Stepping back, he gave David plenty of room to make his choice.
___Watching the train of events progress, Nina had no doubt how this encounter would end. Without any warning, “Let’s go,“ settled into the air.
___Her young companion reluctantly broke his attention way from the sight before him. Completely ready to childishly whine, but he paused as he realized Nina’s gaze was actually focused on him for once. It wasn’t a commanding glare, silencing him with her sheer presence, but merely a mild fascination with his shirt. Looking down, he realized a soft twinkling glow was shining through his clothing. It was subtle, but still enough to warrant quickly smothering it with his hands. Tucking both hands under his chin, he curled up in his chair and nervously peered around.
___What's going on with me, he wondered, finally noting the round bulge beneath his shirt. It was then he remembered he was wearing a necklace. He heaved a small sigh of relief, relaxing slightly. So maybe I’m not glowing, he thought, belatedly remembering Nina had just spoken to him.
___“Could we please stay just a little longer?” Alex begged, obviously terrified of anyone noticing his affliction.
___Nina’s gaze only narrowed toward the child, almost choking him as she found words. “I‘m. Tired.” was all she said, each word punctuated with dangerous eminence. Alex actually shuddered a little, not even breathing until Nina turned her attention away to take another small sip of her drink. Flipping her hair back in one fluid motion, it seemed she would grant him his request.
___Finally pulling his gaze away from her Alex couldn’t help but still feel tense. She’s kinda scary when she’s sleepy, he thought, checking underneath his hands to see the light still peeking through.
___“This might just be worth the effort.” Tiffany sighed, looking down at the anxious child beneath her. She reclined, perfectly balanced on one of many rafters in the roof above him, eyes pinned on the strange light peeking through his fingers. Doesn‘t seem like it‘ll take long to figure him out, she thought, a smile forming as she adjusted her legs.
___"Oh, you're gonna regret comin' in here." David exclaimed, retrieving a set of golden knuckles from within his vest. He slipped them on, kicking the wooden chair at his feet across the room. Getting up to face the staggering fool, he began to stretch his arms.
___"You would draw a weapon against an unarmed man…" Erik mumbled, shaking his head in further disgust. Without giving any hint of turning to flee, he stepped back just a few more paces, raising his cane in salute.
___"Like chivalry you'll die." he quipped, proceeding to withdraw a beautifully slender sword from the bowels of his cane. It was almost clear as glass, with only a small silver tint to tell of its make. He stood, sword raised toward his rival, with his body turned sideways as he settled into his fencing stance. Its weight tested Erik’s inebriated coordination, the sword shaking ever so slightly.
___The thin blade merited attention from everyone except David. There wasn’t a weapon in all of Lars that could deter him at this point. He was obviously more muscled than the slender noble, even if an inch or two shorter.
___I hope he doesn’t love her… He’s about to die for my pride.
___If she fuckin’ leaves while I’m beating your ass I’m gonna fuckin’ kill you…
___Why is this drink so weak?
___She never said it glowed! What am I supposed to do now?
___“Come, simpleton!” Erik yelled, swinging his sword in invitation. He watched David smirk, then dissolve into a white blur as he flew through the small room. His eyes were definitely playing tricks on him. The noble belatedly felt his wrist violently jerk backward, thrown to the side as David tossed the tip of his sword out of his path. A quick jab followed, aimed straight for his freshly shaven jaw. To the noble it was merely a golden blur, but he still calmly stepped back, barely deflecting the blow with his sheathe. It seemed as if he barely noticed the narrow escape, even after being thrown backward from the powerful blow.
___Instead of following up, David confidently waited for the drunkard to regain his composure. It was obvious to him that Erik couldn’t handle his speed. He almost pitied him.
___Blankly, Erik peered back at him, sadness still subtly marring his expression as his eyes began to sparkle. It wasn’t anything out of the ordinary, but merely as if he was situated perfectly in the midst of every candle’s light.
___Nina awoke, having dozed off briefly while she sat, locking eyes with her staggering suitor. The lighting was terrible, but she could easily tell his gaze was unnatural. It wasn’t that his eyes were dark orange, for she’d heard that was possible. It was that manufactured glimmer. The oddity occupied her mind for only short time before she found herself steadily drifting asleep once again, her mind floating between a supernatural clarity and rest. The air was like a continual story, telling her the major and minor motions of everyone at once. Every candle‘s flickering flame and patron’s breath affected the airs current and Nina read it all, actively or not.
___“You fight well,” Erik sighed, finding his poise once again. “…for a commoner.”
___The backhanded compliment wasn‘t even surprising. It only meant David wouldn’t have to regret finishing this. A small shrug and maniacal smile were all the warning he gave before he charged forward once again.
___The gentleman spared no time retreating either, unfortunately running out of space rather quickly. David had him pinned against a wall in no time, tossing his sword out his path once again with one violent swipe. The glassy sword hummed as it reverberated from the force of the blow with the sound seemingly traveling across the room. Following up with a quick jab to the stomach, the street boxer released a primal grunt as he put his heart into it. His fist sank, passing almost unnaturally through the drunkard’s clothing.
___On second thought, it wasn’t unnatural; it was simply gruesome. For a spilt second, David’s eyes widened in shock, as he realized he had punched all the way through to the very wall behind him. He staggered backward, confused, bombarded by the laughter suddenly pouring from the opposite side of the room. Turning around, aghast with the realization he was a murderer, he was struck with the most profound confusion. The pompous drunk bastard was reclining across the room?
___David spun back around finding no one there, and only a slight indentation in the wall where his blow had landed.
___“What the hell…?” David grumbled, turning to face his rival yet again. “I don‘t know how…”
___He paused, finding words escaping him. Everyone else had to have seen that, and looking around at the shocked faces he could tell they had. The whole room was murmuring about it.
___“You‘ll realize by the time this is over, that it would have been prudent to simply relinquish your seat.” the noble explained, self assured and even more condescending.
___“Don’t get cocky cause you managed to dodge one punch. I haven’t even started fighting yet.”
___David uneasily cast the freak disappearance off as a fluke. He had made his choice, and now it was time to follow through. Roaring, he charged across the room, psyched up and dangerous. Nimbly, he jumped from an empty chair to a table top before hurling himself into the air. It was breathtaking, watching him careen for the gentleman, fist artfully cocked backed. For a moment, Alex couldn’t help but recall the demon from Mintt. It was a reminder he could have done without, but it did give him an idea as he watched David’s enthusiasm waver.
___Before he even touched the ground, David watched the noble dissolve before his very eyes. He landed beside an empty chair, crashing into one of the room’s many wooden beams. Erik had vanished a second time, once again appearing all the way on the other side of the room. This time he held a drink in his hand sipping on it as he waited for David to try again. It was obvious whatever he was doing was purposeful.
___“I finally think I get it!” Alex muttered, quickly turning toward Nina. He impatiently tapped her on the shoulder, unknowingly waking her again as he leaned over to whisper a secret.
___“I’m not sure, but I think the weird guy might be an Element! I think that‘s why my necklace was glowing…”
___Nina only cast Alex a brief empty glance before returning her attention to David, charging across the room once again. Alex assumed she was doubtful, or maybe even confused. But his assumptions proved pointless once again as he heard her reply.
___“They both are,” she yawned.
___Her three small words simply left the child breathless. He could only stare in shocked disbelief, unable to do anything more than simply turn back to the fight at hand. But there about to kill each other, he thought, head tilted to the left in quandary. If she was right, then he was literally in the worst situation possible.
___Erik currently didn’t even seem to be paying David any mind. He placidly sauntered along the room’s wall, swaying ever so slightly, as he placed a pillar between himself and his opponent.
___Out of view, he quickly let his eyes rest, slumping against the thick wooden beam for support. He was just so tired; tired of fighting for attention, her affection, when the entire world seemed to already know they belonged together. Pretending to resist was pointless. He couldn’t help but mindlessly fall in love every time she entered his life, only to fall to the depths of madness once she vanished. And yet, even without any promise in her pursuit, he couldn’t help but smile as he remembered her.
-----------------
___Standing there, he watched her, benevolently sparkling amidst the dignified crowd. Lady Norelco was the only one who honestly smiled, a tender warmth naturally radiating from her. One could almost believe she truly held the power to heal the world.___He wanted to leave, to disappear before she perceived him, but his heart wouldn‘t allow it. Instead, he lingered; praying for her to notice him, to smile as if he was the only one that mattered, and of course she did just that, gracefully making her way to him.
___Holding out her hand, she simply asked, "Will you give me this memory?"
___"Only if you promise to share,” he easily replied, leading her with poorly veiled haste to the glistening floor‘s center. Enveloped by the gaze of his dark orange eyes, she waited, peering to the right in perfect introductory form. It was like this, hands clasped in the most evanescent of caresses, they danced. Surrounded by every soul of import to the entire world, they saw only each other.
___Lady Norelco traipsed on a violin's tears and Erik followed on a cello's sigh. It was a breathless moment, silent and sincere, timed to perfection. Her reserve only reluctantly fought against his passion, both bridled by the structure of the waltz. It was a love beyond feeling, but such intangible things could never satisfy the young Prince. He couldn‘t help but break the rules, pulling her imperceptibly closer.
___"My lady, will this never cease?"
___"This dance, my Prince?"
___"Our dance,"
___"We‘re free to dream…"
___It was all the answer she could give him, literally, suddenly twirling in her only eligible suitor’s hand. Her brilliant gold tresses waved in the air, the sugary scent of Yeshiva Blossoms spilling in her wake as the music fell away to silence. A lone violin began to herald her lingering words truth, manipulating the moment and their feelings.
___"Charlotte, you know we're meant for each other."
___It was all the eloquence the Prince could manage, forced to resist as he inhaled her subtle intoxication. Skin tauntingly soft, she floated before him, slender frame tense throughout every precise sweep and turn. It almost broke his heart to hear the cello hum, beckoning for its turn as the violin’s lilting notes ceased.
___"The only sure thing is this," his blessed companion whispered, her hand separating from his own, simply executing the rules of the dance. As was the purpose, he was confined to watch her beauty; an empty space and sigh all that held them apart. He knew, watching her without him, that nothing could come of seeking her heart. Nevertheless, he waited.
___A weightless twirl, another bow, a curtsey and the foregone conclusions were forgotten. His stunning white suit complete with a floor length cape poetically battled with the Great Lady’s dress, a confection of lace black beyond comprehension.
___It was clearly known, without a word being spoken that they were the only presence allowed in the midst of the ballroom’s great expanse. The entire world yielded to their sonata, with even the marbled floor daring not to grace their feet. All knew their histories, the mandates of their stations, and either out of respect or pity let them have this moment. This sinister perfection was all they were allowed.
-----------------
___I shouldn‘t be wasting my time like this, Erik thought, breaking free from his dreaming.___A small nod of resolution was all the Prince made before a shallow white glow outlined his eyes and he vanished completely. It was almost effortless; a mere pause in his breath.
___My lady, I’ll only be a minute more.
___“Shifty bastard, you can’t hide forever!” David yelled, irritated more than anything. At this point, he didn’t even care how the noble was doing his trick. No matter how long it took, he was going to destroy that snide face.
___“Just because you‘re too simple to find me doesn‘t mean I‘m hiding.” Erik retorted.
___Everyone in the room arched a skeptical eyebrow. Even Nina narrowed her gaze toward the drunkard, easily feeling his masked presence in the air. How can you say you’re not hiding if you turn invisible, Alex wondered, his necklace finally dulling in its glow.
___David ignored the statement all together, merely hoping now was his chance. Flinging himself around Erik’s obstruction, he found nothing, which of course wasn‘t even surprising at this point. There wasn’t anything different from before, besides maybe the sudden stinging pain in his right shoulder.
___“To this blade, your body might as well be water.” Erik boasted, standing behind his target. His sword was raised, supposedly to pierce the brute through the heart. In reality, his invisible sword was poised to barely graze his shoulder, occasionally dipping down in awkward annoying angles. His coordination was lacking to say the least.
___“Yeah, and to my fist, your face is ugly.” David bitterly replied. He could feel himself reaching that state of unreasonable anger. Behind him, the noble’s condescending laughter was doing nothing to help.
___“You‘re truly too simple to understand what you‘re up against...?” Erik sighed, genuinely amused. “I have power beyond your wildest dreams…”
___As David stood, invisible opponent’s voice jeering him from behind, he felt heat throbbing inside his hazel eyes. Like a heart beat, it pulsed each time that damn blade would nick his shoulder.
___Peering down, Tiffany couldn‘t help but shiver, entranced by the sight of the street performer’s bloodshot gaze. She had no idea it was merely a premonition of what was to come. Having carefully crawled over for a better view, she wearily watched this man in white seethe, noting the thin trail of blood sliding down his arm.
___“I shouldn‘t be surprised,” the noble continued, his cloak falling away as he rambled. “You’re the only one I’ve ever met who couldn’t recognize our love... Of course, you’d be too stupid to realize my power as well.”
___A small crackle punctuated the Prince’s words as David’s eyes literally burst into flames. He could stand no more of this; this bastard who thought so highly of himself.
___“Don‘t show yourself to be a fool,” David replied, each word derisive. “I know you‘re just a coward…”
___He paused, slowly turning his head, allowing Erik to take in the sight of his eyes, “And, that your power is nothing compared to mine.”
___The swordsman was more than at a loss for words, staggering backward with this… demon before him.
___“What, are you…” he whispered, his sword falling to his side. He watched his opponent smile, evil incarnate as he pivoted to face him.
___The entire Lion’s Den anxiously waited to see what was happening. Blocked from view by the wooden pillar, no one but Tiffany could actually see the scene unfolding. Even so, the atmosphere was so tense no one budged, glued to their seats lest they should miss something. Alex was the only one truly worried, desperately trying to figure out how to stop this madness without giving himself away. All he could do was patiently wait for an opportunity.
___Altering his grip on his sword, Erik sighed, “Well, I can‘t turn back now can I…”
___“No, you can‘t,” David snidely affirmed, suddenly withdrawing a gigantic breath.
___Inhaling until it almost hurt, he began spewing the biggest pillar of fire he could muster. It was a token move from his act, but now used with almost no control, even scorching the far walls. The entire room was thrown into a panicked frenzy, the far side of the enclosure suddenly engulfed by flames. Even the air seemed to be burning away and unsurprisingly the few patrons inside fled, all luckily out of harm’s way. David couldn’t have cared less, keenly watching the noble dash to his right and vanish in the process. Bellowing flames in pursuit of his imagined adversary, he just estimated his position.
___Luckily for Erik, his poor coordination sent him tumbling to the ground, tripping over his own feet. Invisibly sprawled on the floor, he thanked the gods for his fortune, feeling the radiating heat from the column of fire passing overhead.
___Nina and Alex were the only ones who remained, Alex unable to move in fear, and Nina simply unimpressed. If the need arose she guessed she could probably protect them both long enough to get out at least. Standing, the stunning wind conjurer quickly quelled all the small fires now raging throughout the room, her powers employed so efficiently it was hard to tell she did anything at all. Her eyes barely changed, a minute green glare running across them in an instant, just enough for Tiffany to take notice.
___“We‘re leaving, now.” Nina commanded with all patience gone, turning her attention to the door.
___Rushing inside, were Erik’s attendants, baffled by all the commotion happening within. They frantically looked around, blocking Nina‘s path. She could only tilt her head at the irony, actually considering whether she should blow them away. It was obvious who they were here for.
___“What have you done with the Crown Prince!” one of them yelled, looking at Nina and then David in turn. All they could do was fear for the worst, unable to find their master anywhere. It did nothing to help matters either when they heard the crown Prince‘s voice call out.
___“I refuse to simply perish!” he shouted, his eyes alone becoming visible, hovering above the bartender’s counter where he now stood. It was obvious, to everyone but the attendants, that the twin glowing white orbs belonged to Erik. He had carefully positioned himself, placing Nina and Alex directly between him and this strange fire breathing commoner. It was the only reasonable thing to do.
___David could only grind his teeth in agitation, realizing Erik‘s tactic. Unable to hurl fire without taking out Nina in the process, he was forced to stalk forward. David would just have to nail him in the face like he originally intended. As he neared the room steadily grew brighter; the Prince’s shining orbs growing in strength.
___Alex spun around, aware of Nina ready to drag him away at any moment, and knew what he had to do. The words were on the tip of his tongue, the proper frame of mind settling in as he closed his eyes. The child raised his hands and began forming the necessary symbols with time quickly running out. Feeling David pick up his pace, charging across the room, he focused harder, the Prince’s light reaching a blinding level of illumination. The small room quickly vanished, nothing decipherable inside the white void. It was in this impossible arena the two rivals launched their final blows.
___David leapt through the air, bearing toward his opponent uncertainly, spinning with a beautiful round house kick, as Erik meanwhile raised his sword for one last lethal slash. Realizing Alex wasn’t going to move on his own, Nina wrapped her arms around him, thrusting them both from harms way on a fevered gust of wind as the child uttered his last unnaturally resounding syllable. Her feet barely even skimmed the floor as Alex spell took effect, a wall of pure negative energy forming between the two fighters, invisible to all in the room. Both men collided with the barrier, their consciousness and strength instantly sucked into its void.
___As Erik’s light faded away, no longer sustained by his concentration, his attendants found him lying crumpled on the floor, body entangled with that of David. It was terribly anticlimactic, the two ending up entwined and slumbering peacefully.
___“What the hell just happened here Minos?” one of the attendants blurted to the other, staring baffled at the scene before them.
___“I have no idea… but, the Prince is our priority.” Minos wearily answered, his duty the only thing he could even comprehend at the moment.
___“Most certainly,”
___They promptly proceeded to head over and lift their sleeping master, hauling him haphazardly through the maze of tables to the door. It would seem it wasn’t the first time either by their expressions. The one called Minos couldn’t help but to gaze over at Nina as he passed too. He would definitely ask her to recount the night’s events.
___ Peering over at David, still lying in a heap on the floor, Nina paid her observer no attention, waiting until they left the room to speak.
___“How,” she ordered; the question almost pointless with the entirety of her expression. Peering down at Alex, it was obvious she knew he was responsible, and even more so that the truth was required.
___“I um… kind of used a spell, to… drain their energy,” Alex timidly explained, Nina’s icy glare never deviating. He continued, his voice unsteadily wavering as he slowly died under her scrutiny. “I think they‘ll both be fine… with a little rest?”
___“You‘re not certain,” Nina ascertained, further narrowing her gaze toward the child.
___“Well, I mean, I‘ve never actually used this spell on real people before, but in theory, they should be fine?” the boy weakly offered, fearing for his life as Nina lost all expression. Not knowing what was coming was somehow far scarier than seeing it plainly written on her face.
___“Uh um, I know it sounds bad, but I mean, if you want, I can cast a healing spell…” Alex quickly babbled, backing away toward David. “I’ll go ahead and get started on that…” he offered, kneeling to begin his incantation beside David’s head.
___It was different from before, the precious state of mind eluding him with the thought of Nina’s disapproval clouding his mind. Listening to Erik’s attendant’s outside, conversing about how to position their dazed Prince, he knew he wouldn‘t be able to do anything until he cleared the air.
___“Nina, I‘m supposed to be gathering this planet‘s Elements. The time is coming when you’ll all be needed to fight for this world‘s survival… but, honestly, I have no idea what I‘m doing. I‘m just a child...”
___His words were suddenly more earnest than ever before. The weight of the world was literally on his shoulders, and for the moment he could feel it.
___Nina listened, even more intently than the girl hiding above them, but still said nothing in reply. She understood his action, how he saved both the men’s lives, but still offering him comfort or rebuke was still far more than she was capable. Reaching out to him meant she had to feel, to show him sympathy, and feeling anything at all, no matter how small would be the beginning to feeling everything. For now, Alex would just have to find his own reassurance. All she could do was continue by his side.
___Staring down at him, Tiffany was overwhelmed with pity for the cute lad. She wasn’t even sure if she was one these ‘Elements’ he spoke of, but seeing him now, lost and helpless in the midst of his daunting task, she couldn’t help but silently agree to his cause. She didn’t know what danger the world was in, or who this strange boy with his glowing chest and mysterious spells was, but his earnest appearance was enough for her to trust him. At the very least, she would follow him awhile longer. The only thing that bugged her was Nina’s cruel indifference. The boy obviously needed her, but all she could do was silently ignore him.
___What a bitch…
___“Lukas, we should apologize to the others.” Minos suggested, turning to his fellow guard.
___“Yes, I wouldn‘t be surprised if this becomes yet another of the Prince‘s rumored episodes…” Lukas replied, turning back toward the building. The two continued inside, both still confused by what they’d seen.
___“Hmm, I guess I should try it again,” Alex sighed, returning his focus to the task at hand. He didn’t even notice the two men returning.
___“Excuse us, but we would just like to offer our apologies for whatever inconvenience the Prince may have caused tonight. His royal highness wasn’t exactly in the best frame of mind this evening…” Minos wearily admitted.
___“Yes, if there‘s anything we can do, we would be happy to oblige.” Lukas chimed in, grimacing at the sight of the sleeping commoner still on the floor.
___Nina only stared, her eyes easily piercing through the men’s pleasantries.
___“Thank you, I guess…?” Alex sighed, peering up at the almost identical attendants.
___“Let me assure you he isn’t always like this. In fact, he’s normally quite the opposite.” Minos clarified, always aware of Erik’s reputation.
___“Yes, our master is usually the picture of responsibility and civility…” Lukas insisted, his expression earnest and weary.
___“Tonight has been a rather long series of… unconstructive events for the young master,” Minos explained, straining to find a palatable word to describe the recent happenings. After an uncomfortable pause he decided he might as well inquire about what occurred.
___“Since I would be remiss if I didn’t ask, may I inquire of this man here? Was he trying to rescue our royal highness? That blinding light made it hard to see, but he was definitely trying to attack whatever that evil spirit creature was…”
___Seemingly remembering the sight from before as well, Lukas chimed in, “Yes, the Prince seemed to appear after he defeated it, released from its demon grasp.”
___Alex took a moment to understand their odd recounting, realizing they obviously had no inkling of the Prince’s powers. In light of everything Alex knew, merely agreeing with them seemed like the best choice by far. They had called Erik a Prince, and if they knew David was actually attacking him he doubted they would take it lightly.
___“Uh, yeah, that um, shiny spirit thing… just showed up out of nowhere all willy nilly… If it wasn‘t for David who knows what would‘ve happened to him?” Alex lied, obviously unpracticed in such things. Fortunately for him, the guards weren’t the most perceptive individuals.
___“I thought as much… In that case, we‘d be honored to bring him with us. I‘m sure the Prince would greatly appreciate the opportunity to thank this gentleman in person tomorrow. The two of you are welcome as well. There is far more than enough space at his cottage,” Minos happily offered. “If you’re willing to recount tonight’s proceedings I would gladly exchange our hospitality. For now, it’s important we return the Prince home though.”
___“That would be great!” Alex quickly blurted, already thinking of recruiting the two new Elements. He quickly looked over at Nina to see if she’d agree. If not it would ruin everything. Luckily, she seemed to be off in her own world again. It was probably one of the few times her apparent daze relieved him.
___Lukas and Minos didn’t really notice her lack of response, instead heading over to haul their second dazed fighter back to the carriage. They had him up and through the door in almost no time.
___Nina silently labeled them both idiots.
___“Nina, I have to get the Prince and David to come with us… Would you mind staying at the Prince cottage tonight? I mean, it would make things a whole lot easier.” Alex meekly asked, walking over to her side.
___She of course took a moment to reply, mentally replaying the entire evening in her head. It was such a ludicrous thing to mull over, but the most vivid memory was her pale pink drink. It was called a Phoenix, she thought, relishing in the last subtle traces in her mouth.
___“Fine,” she finally answered him, turning to walk out the door.
___Alex was caught in the middle of a yawn when he heard, but enthusiastically nodded an ‘okay.’ Tonight could have been worse, he reasoned, taking one last look at the singed room.
___He came outside to find Nina already stepping inside the massive carriage, the door being held open by Minos. Lukas was sitting up front, holding the reigns to four stately horses. Alex was growing too tired to truly be infatuated with the steeds, but still he did his best to gawk at them as he followed Nina inside.
___It wasn’t long before he had settled in next to her, Lukas and Minos sitting up front as the carriage began to slowly bounce away. Nina and he were facing David and Erik, both men slumped toward each other in their haze, cuddling somewhat as the vehicle lurched along. The only one awake, the irony could only enjoyed by Nina, who didn’t really enjoy it all. Alex head was propped on her arm, lulled to sleep with the subtle rocking of the carriage.
___With a slight contortion of her body, Nina carefully positioned the child so his head rested on her lap. Gently brushing the hair away from his face she watched him sleep, feeling nothing at all for this little angel in her midst. She did wonder about his comments from earlier though; this supposed danger the world was in. Why would he, of all people, would be chosen to gather Elements? From where did he learn his spells? The questions floated around her mind, never truly being considered as she steadily drifted asleep herself. Her words still held true from before; she would protect him until he motivated otherwise.
___Tiffany meanwhile considered the exact same questions. Lying on her stomach above everyone‘s heads, she clung to the carriage‘s roof for dear life as it sped along. Hair billowing in the wind, smile breaking across her face, she already felt like a solid part of this group. Somehow, she’d stumbled into four people just as odd and seemingly powerful as herself. Whatever happened next would undoubtedly involve them all.
*__*__*
___"My lord, I know it is not my place to ask anything of you, but if you could only please hear my request."___"What do you desire?" Michael inquired telepathically, his powers unnecessary to tell the servant was up to something.
___She entered from beyond the reach of his emanating light, and came into view as she spoke. Her head was down and her voice was in its usual meek pleading tone. Her necklace, a ribbon tied around her throat with its two ends hanging to the floor, fluttered in the air from the sheer power exuded by the Guardian.
___"Gabriel is approaching and though I do have the utmost faith Nephilim can gather the Elements, I worry if they will be strong enough to be of any aid. Only one Element currently uses the full potential of their power, while, the others are considerably lacking." Aerial timidly explained, building a basis for her request.
___"All this I already know." Michael projected. He could have easily read her thoughts, but Aerial would eventually say whatever was on her mind. Even if she didn’t, her feelings were still manifested plainly on her face. The beautiful servant had always been an open book.
___"Eminence, I would ask you to grant me permission to test the Elements. I believe that I can force them to use their powers in a manner similar to what Gabriel will impose… At the very least it will push them to become further acquainted with their gifts and hopefully prepare them for the end of things.” Aerial continued, grasping for any reason to aid in her case. ”Nephilim is undoubtedly prepared to help instruct them, but I fear the mortals lack the sense of urgency I can provide. I promise I will do them no harm! Please, Great Guardian, allow me passage to the surface so that I may test them."
___Her golden eyes innocently pleaded her case, everything about her posture radiating submission.
___Intrigued with Aerial's newly found initiative, Michael sat, power radiating in bone chilling waves. His calm warm exterior revealed none of his thoughts though.
___“You’ve done nothing to deserve this…"
___"Yes… I cannot disagree, but it is exactly why I request this from you. I merely want this opportunity to prove your patience with me has not been in vain. Allow me to demonstrate my worth with this one small task.” Aerial beseeched with expert cunning. “I promise I won't let you down most honorable Guardian."
___"There is no need for theatrics.” Michael cautioned, smiling within himself at her own foolish narcissism. He knew all to well how much she prized her ability, this skilled guile he had crafted her to have. She never really seemed to realize it was a direct result of his creative choices.
___“I will grant you permission for all you ask, but you will have three key mandates and if you make a single misstep death will follow. Besides that I’ll leave it up to you to fulfill the task satisfactorily. When I deign it’s time you‘ll be summoned and your restrictions explained."
___"Thank you, thank you, thank you my lord! You'll not regret this!" Aerial almost yelled, ecstatically jumping up and down like a child. Aerial quickly regained her composure though, realizing whose presence she was in, though still barely able to contain herself. Calming her nerves to the point where she could simply bow and walk away from the Guardian’s chambers was about the hardest thing she had ever done. No sooner than she was outside, she flew as fast as she could manage to find her brother. There was simply so much to tell him.
___The Guardian, watching her leave, knew full well why she wanted so desperately to do this. It was obviously a means to an ends, simply a reason to see the surface world, but it would aid in fulfilling his purposes so he had no real reason to deny her. He only hoped she would be responsible enough to avoid evoking her own destruction in the process.
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