Fandom Fairy Tail: Legacy of the Twilight Prophet

[DawnAntalios]

As Bellidan was slipping away from Eias' grip she fell backwards, but right before she hit the ground she transformed into a cloud of poisonous mist, staring at them.


"This is not over... far from it." she hissed angrily "Mark my words... the master will have you... you will soon see the truth of my words."


Her nefarious form vanished into thin air, making the party returning into its normal shape. At least into the phase where nobles were having some good time... before they actually got disoriented as the charm spell wore off. They were bewildered and were unable to process what has happened, much to the relief to the Lord and Meryl.


"EIAS!" Meryl exclaimed when she saw the blood splattered clothes of the girl started to move onto her lungs to crush her. The spirit frantically tried to help the unconscious girl but no matter what she tried to do it did not let go. She was determined to help... she had to... even if it...


"Compose yourself, my dear." Latosius spoke up as he walked up to her. "Everything will be fine."


"It will not!" Meryl yelled "Both of them are fading! I must...!"


"Meryl. That is enough." Latosius said, firmly. His eyes told her even without words to remain calm. Meryl did not dare to speak up... instead she just nodded and watched as the advisor reached out his palm, putting it on her clothes briefly. His eyes now flared up with twilight flames and so did his hand pulsate... commanding the cloth to actually relinquish its grasp on the girl's body. Slowly and steadily it began to recede to be in a normal position, not restricting her any more.


"She should be fine for now. I shall take them to safety. I trust you can finish the party without me?"


Meryl sobbed but nodded. Latosius acknowledged her determination and put her hand on her shoulder.


"Good. Worry not... I will do my best to keep your friend out of harm's way. As for the slave girl..." he looked at Selene. She was almost as pale as a corpse now "I can not guarantee what will happen to her. I shall see."


With that he managed to lift the two girls with magic, ushering their unconscious body from the room into something more... comfortable.


The faint light of the morning sun was caressing the face of Eias as it shone through the luxurious curtains. The silken bed-sheets were welcoming the girl the warm blanket sheltering her body from the cold air outside. Her clothes did not dare to make their move at all, they were laying dormant, now sheltering her from any harm. Her peaceful rest was all but assured hopefully, only disrupted by distant sounds of Latosius and Meryl discussing.


"... anything about her? Who is this Bellidan anyway? How could she appear so suddenly?"


"it was anything but sudden." Latosius frowned "I prepared you partially because of her. But I expected not such audacity... nor such losses."


Meryl frowned and paused.


"Is the slave girl...?"


"Not yet." Latosius shook his head "I am keeping her in a magical coma, a stasis if you will. That will keep her alive for now... but I know not what to do about her otherwise. Healing is beyond my field of expertise."


He paused.


"I will need to attend to other matters. Keep an eye on the girls. The other advisors are to return from their expedition today, I need to greet them."


Meryl nodded, watching the Lord depart. She turned her attention to the bed next to Eias where the still pale Selene lay. She sighed heavily as she walked up to Eias' bed, sitting down on it, caressing the girl's face.


"I am... very proud of you. I am so happy that you are fine... Eias..."

 

[Bolts]

Eias didn't know what her fate would be now that she was basically sleeping. She was sure that the lord and Meryl could fight a battle on their own. She just had to believe that they would protect her in this state. In her mind, she felt lonely and cold. She relived those small moments of darkness over and over again. The anger, fear, and hatred that had enveloped her had not gone away. It was merely on cool down. The cries of Meryl were what broke her out of it but who knew what would happen next time. Eias felt her heart drop just thinking about it. she couldn't let it get out of control again. She felt like a completely new person in that state. One that was ruthless and if pushed, could even harm her very own friends that she wanted to protect. She wallowed in her dream till her mind came too. 


She heard small snippets of voices as she started waking up. With the feeling of a faint, cold, hand rushing over her face, she slowly opened her eyes. 


"What is there to be proud of?" She said quietly. She felt embarrassed by what had transpired. The words still rang in her head now that she looked at Meryl. How could she be proud of someone she feared? In fact, she was scared of herself now that she had time to think about it.


"How... how is Selene?" She said, biting her lip at the response. Even if it was the worst news, she couldn't give in to the dark again.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Meryl's smile widened as she saw Eias waking up. She leaned closer to her, giving her a kiss on her forehead as she caressed the girl with her hand. She was unaware of the coldness of her palm, after all she herself was an ice spirit... the only thing that mattered for her is that the Muse was more or less all right. She, however, saw the fear in her eyes... those painful, almost desperate looks which she knew all too well. She had seen these quite often in the past... from an all too familiar girl.


"I am proud of you because you kept it in control. You managed to return to all of us." she whispered lightly, caressing the girl's cheeks "You are very important to me, Eias... very important to us all. You are a Muse, perhaps one of the last ones and you have just discovered what side of yourself could emerge in the direst of times. You allowed the emotions you so perfectly kept in check to rage through you... yet you still retained the part of who you are... the part which allowed you to return to all of us."


She paused, leaning closer.


"But fates be damned: I do not love you or care about you because you are a Muse: I care about you because of who YOU are. Because that is the side which prevailed, a side which allowed you to act with nobility. I am proud of you, as I mentioned... and I am glad that you are all right."


Upon hearing about the slave girl her smile turned into a solemn expression.


"She... is not well. The blow she had suffered was great, the wound was gaping and was almost as if it was burning her from within."


She looked at the other bed where the swirling void energies kept Selene in a comatic state.


"Lord Latosius had to put her into a stasis for her to endure a bit longer. But I do not know how long could she survive in a state like this. If anything, I believe that it is her strong, iron tempered will which keeps her alive still."


She smiled.


"I remember our dance - she expressed her concern for my safety and how much was she in your debt. She told me that she would be willing to do anything for you and when I told her about the foreboding feeling I had about the party she willingly volunteered to switch places with me, to act as a bodyguard and a bait for me or for you."


She shuddered.


"I do not know how you met or what had transpired between the two of you... but when she told me that she would sacrifice everything to see you happy... I see that she meant what she said."


Meryl looked back at Eias.


"I know not whether it is appropriate for me to say this now since I know not her fate... but she wanted me to tell you something in case something happened to her. Her word were: "That one kiss, even though it was out of necessity on your part, changed my entire life, the icy grip of winter melted away in my soul, bringing everlasting spring and summer. For that I will forever be in your debt." "

 

[Bolts]

Eias hung her head she she heard the news of her friend. She noticed how the spirit looked in a direction but she couldn't bring herself to do the same. She let someone get hurt for her sake and she just couldn't handle that anymore. If Selene were to actually die because of her, she didn't know how she would react. When Meryl told her of Selene's words, she bit her lip. Clutching the bed sheets, she did her best to keep the tears in. 


"I don't understand... why do people keep doing things like this for me?" She said, keeping her head low. "I can't even protect them. Every time, people keep throwing themselves at my danger." She snapped her head up, looking at Meryl with puffy red eyes. 


"She still needs to get out of here. She needs to be free. Find someone to spend her life with like she wants. Can... can you think of anything Meryl? Anything I can do to help her?" The pleas in her voice wavered from exhaustion and rising emotions. 


"What can I do?...."

 

[DawnAntalios]

Meryl started to caress the hair of the girl, her motions with her hand soothing the girl hopefully long enough for her to calm down a bit.


"I have called for a specialist, someone whose expertise in... difficult cases in survival is quite good. She is on her way as far as I am concerned, though it will take her some time to arrive. Together with her it will hopefully be possible to stabilize Selene. The girl, as I said, is rather strong, her will allows her to endure even the most grievous of wounds. Whenever she mumbled something it was about you and... well, I believe she holds out hope because she hopes to see you again. Such is your influence upon people."


She smiled.


"Ever since little Aeris met you she began her metamorphosis into a woman, something that heralded the thing Eon still struggles against. As she matures she will need to make decisions on her own, using our bound forms to do her bidding. Though I must not reveal much more about this yet you have to understand that I am happy with her development, happy with the path she had chosen. She, as it would seem, is now ready to transcend her own old self, all thanks to you. People start to love you, Eias, and for those they love they would give their all, they would sacrifice everything."


Meryl took the hand of the girl whilst she still caressed her hair.


"You overburden yourself with guilt, Eias. You are special to many of us: some views only the Muse as a precious talent whilst me and those who know you better love you because of who you are. It is difficult to explain... your soothing, warm aura and your joyous melodies are the part of your soul which emanate that power from you which lures all of us in to you. It is... just good to be with you, you know? There is nothing shameful about that, even in the darkest of hours your purity shines through... and that is a priceless gift."


She sighed and paused as Eias asked about Selene's freedom. She was uncertain how to explain things to her but she tried regardless.


"Lord Latosius was able to withstand the barrage of request to strengthen the bond of slavery in Ca-Elum. He starkly refuses to make this an obligatory service but he failed to abolish the rules entirely in turn. Thus, breaking servitude is a very painstaking thing. Dissenting and deserting is not possible, the magical contract binding them to their masters is really strong, it would probably cripple them. The only way... perhaps the most logical one aside from the master wishing to part from its possession..."


She sighed.


"Is winning them away, I think. It is possible to purchase slaves off a master but that is a hefty investment - that is why most people partake in competitions in order to do that. They challenge the person present to fight for their slaves - a battle of wits, of course - and should the challenger win they would get the slave they wanted. Should they lose, however, the slave in question will be permanently bound to its current master."


She nodded.


"It is not an easy task to do for sure, I can assure you. I can not officially advise you to take actions in such a direction, that would be against my code of conduct as an advisor. However..." she paused "As a friend of yours who had personally saw what Selene was willing to do for you... I might not refrain from telling you that her undying devotion to you should get some... recognition."

 

[Bolts]

Eias allowed the girl to stroke her hair. Leaning into the hand, she managed to make a small smile at the kind words. Those were all she needed to hear to bring her back to some sanity after all this time. Things were just getting out of hand, so she needed to stay on her toes. She needed to be ready for the next hit and sitting around, crying, wasn't going to solve it. She was grateful that Meryl still felt like the same spirit. It seemed her training was merely to front a Ca-Elum personality. 


"Thank you.. for everything." She said quietly. 


She peered up as Meryl went on about the workings of slavery. Eias was surprised to hear just how liberal Lord Latosius was. All these secrets and mysteries around him, and yet he fought for the people as a whole. It made Eias feel better knowing at least a few people in high positions were working to keep things fair. What caught her attention the most was the challenge. Out of everything, a challenge to win a slave was interesting. With no real money, this may be Eias's way to repay Selene... Once she wakes up. She had to attempt it and win so that Selene would surly be free. Free to be her own person. 


"I understand. I will think about the topic." she said as her gaze drifted to Selene on the other bed. She couldn't get a good look at her, but the lack of blood spurting out was a nice site. She hoped the girl was dreaming nice thoughts at this time. 


"S-so.. who is this person coming to see her?" She asked simply. 

 

[DawnAntalios]

Meryl nodded at Eias seemingly calming down. She knew that words were the only things that she could have offered for her and was relieved to see that they managed to hit their mark. The same kindness seemed to influence his Latosius as well... but that was perhaps a different story entirely. Waking up different of a side of the Lord was... a more unique feat than she could have imagined, making the docile side of the once tyrannical, cold man was something that she treasured... and truly reciprocated in feelings.


"Oh I think you have heard of her." she let out a chuckle "She is not a doctor but she knows difficult situations very well and things like these too. She needed to come in haste and in secret though so her arrival will be-"


A servant stepped into the room.


"Lady Meryl. Your guests have arrived." he said quietly, respectfully.


"Let them in Ulla." the girl nodded warmly at the man, who in turn bowed deeply and ushered in the two, relative small figures into the room. Their visage was hidden for the moment with large, ornamented capes, all signifying nobility and concealing their presence all too well. Their movements were so aligned that one would have thought they were twins... and to an extend rightfully so. As they entered and the door closed behind them they came to a halt in the middle of the room, staring at Meryl.


"It is about damn time that I see you again, Lady Meryl." the one on the right spoke up, removing her cape. Her burning orange hair and her determined, fired up eyes darted back and forth between the spirit and the laying Muse on the bad. She turned to the latter and bowed. "And I am honestly happy to see you in one piece as well, Eias. Though I honestly anticipated you being with your friend now, smooching in a corner instead of... suffering from injuries."


The tongue of Kuuna seemed to be as sharp as ever and to that notion her guide, Chibio, let out a small chuckle as she removed her disguise as well.


"It is an honor that I see you again both, Ladies." the robot girl mused with her chiming voice, so crystal clearly resembling Kuuna that were in not for her mechanical looking eyes one could have mistaken their identities completely. She briefly glanced at her creator who looked to be in a much better shape now: small bandages were still on her body left and right, her chest was heaving a bit more than she usually did but her color and life power seemed to be at the right place now. She seemed healthy and more or less whole.


"So I heard you made new friends while I was knocked out, huh?" the girl frowned, walking up to Selene briefly. The horror and pain on her face was apparent at seeing her. "Such a pretty slave girl you have here. Chibio, we know anything about her?"


The android walked up to her.


"Name: Selene. Family: Unknown. Master: Lord Gruff, according to her mental notes. Stability: Critical. Health State: Rapidly Declining, life functions ebbing away due to massive injury."


Kuuna began thinking.


"That is not good... her wound is indeed massive and lost a lot of blood. It would be difficult to treat her properly."


"Can't we just heal her somehow?" Meryl asked but the girl shook her head.


"Some sort of unknown, necrotic poison was a thing with which that blade you mentioned was coated in, it prevents any magic to actually get into her body and regenerate her as it would normally do."


Kuuna turned to her robotic alias and smiled at her.


"Chibio, could you scan her body and analyze her fortitude? I have an idea but I need confirmation."


Chibio, seemingly reading in her thoughts nodded.


"Right away, Master Kuuna. Please, tend to the Lady Muse while I am working."


The girl chuckled.


"That I intend, Chib."


She now finally decided to walk over to the two of them. Despite being of noble blood Kuuna did not really care about manners when she was around friends, just as her now simplistic, leather clothes so were her reaction to things swift, a bit blunt and definitely more cheerful than last time. Hopping onto the bed of Eias she sat down next to the girl, smiling at both her and the spirit stroking her hair.


"Ey, I see sadness in your eyes, Eias." she said "Worry not, if my assumptions are correct I have an idea how to patch up your friend for now."


She leaned back, as if trying to stretch. The Leathery corset on her chest was more simple at design and more subtle than the one she wore back at her visit in Magnolia but it seemed to keep the girl in check... and to give her the fortitude she needed.


"Ugh, laying still for all this time made me stiff... still, better than being dead I suppose. I swear, when you have your lungs burning for some air for like days at a time... it really dulls your senses. It feels rather crappy."


Meryl chuckled.


"I am glad that you are back among the living, Kuuna."


"That I do to, little freezy." Kuuna replied, making Meryl to laugh at her notion. Yes, Kuuna was back all right.


"You know that I had to traverse the city and elude all the guards with Chibio just to come and see you, right?" she said, looking at Eias, placing her hands on her hips "At least cheer up now that I am here, yes? Show me that happy smile of that girl I know! No more sobbing for now!"

 

[Bolts]

Eias looked to Meryl when she said she knew of her. Just who could this person be? Most people she knew were slowly going out of commission due to fights not in their favor.
"I.. I don't." She said before a servant walking inside. He spoke of the person arriving and before long she heard the footsteps of who was coming.
A little shock came over Eias as she stared at the door, disbelieving who was standing there.
"Kuuna? Chibio?" She whispered to herself. Her confusion and surprise outweighed her happiness. Those two were the last people she would have expected to see. Especially after what Kuuna had been through. Just being here was dangerous for her. All Eias did was follow the two with her eyes as they spoke and began gathering information. Not too long after, Kuuna was standing before her confident as ever.
She rubbed her eyes gently as to see if she could get rid of this illusion. Still, the girl was before her.
"KUUNA!" She unuciated as she lunged forth. She would have tackled the girl had it not been for her expending a great deal of magic. She got half way before her body caught up with her, laying face flat on the floor. Her arms went limp as if defeated.
"N-never mind..." She groaned with a hint of pain and embarrassment.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Chibio focused on her analysis, her robotic eyes flaring as myriads of information were racing through her mind, calculating just what did she need to do for the slumbering girl to survive. As instructed by Kuuna earlier, the robotic copy of the girl began her thorough scan of the victim, trying to indeed find the best solution possible. The little robot looked only up when she heard the voice of Eias, turning her head towards her to see what the commotion was all about. Sensing the dangerously low power level of the girl she was to open her mouth to warn her... but the deed was already done by that point.

Kuuna observed the fall with a rather shocked expression. She was uncertain to be actually flattered about the reaction of the girl or should she bury her face in her palm at seeing the goofy spectacle.
"I give you a chance for happiness and you make a mess of it!" she sighed, kneeling down next to the fallen body of Eias, inspecting her face with a childish glee. "Nope, no noble Muse here... only a clumsy girl who pretends to be a noble-woman."
She walked up to her, poking her nose. She felt the enervated state of the girl.
"Help required, most likely." Chibio's voice chimed whilst she continued analyzing Selene "Mistress Eias' power level is low. She has difficulties with standing or walking."
"Difficulties, eh?" Kuuna said, looking at her then glancing at Meryl "Hey, Freezy, come and help me get her up. She cultivated quite a mass with these clothes, I can't lift her alone!"
"Lifting is ill-advised." Chibio continued "Transference of power is requested."
"Mind your duty, Chib! I know what I am doing."
"Prognosis: negative. Master Kuuna, you should-"
The girl threw a pillow at the head of Chibio who, without looking there, deftly dodged it.
"Understood. I shall focus on the examination then."

Grinning, Kuuna motioned Meryl once again who helped putting Eias back to her bed. With a more serious tone Kuuna spoke up.
"Do not push yourself too much, Eias." she said, the joking tone turning into a caring one. Her gloved hands stroke the head of Eias as she chuckled "I am happy to see you too."
She now leaned in and gave the girl the gentle hug she wanted originally. Then, disregarding pretty much every standard of etiquette, she jumped onto the bed whilst still caressing Eias' chest and the corset. Perhaps, holding it a bit too tight, just as one holds a pillow very close.
"Ahh, it feels good to lay in a warm bed for a change..." she said, using Eias' warm, heaving chest as a pillow as a replacement instead of the one she threw at Chibio's way. She found it rather comfortable to lay on Eias, creating a happy place for herself. Secretly, of course, she hoped that Eias would cheer up as well.

Meryl laughed at this display and turned to Eias.
"Well, I only ask for the best experts for sure." she smiled gently "The Lord told me that a visitor is due to come to his mansion, according to him the person has some valuable intel for him... and afterwards they will visit us here as well. Strangely, that person is told to be a great admirer of yours, Eias."

 

[Bolts]

Eias hardly could bring her hand up to rub her face. The cold floor was the only sensation she had to combat the blood pooling to her head. Though the hit itself made Eias's face red, the embarrassment highlighted it even more. The light mocking from Kuuna was her only source of noise as she tried lifting herself up with no success. She hadn't truly realized how much magic she had used during the fight. It was strange, and inviting, hearing Kuuna so lax in the area. She seemed at home and comfortable with who she was and that is really all Eias wanted from her from the start.
She gladly was settled back on the bed, not really sure what to do at the moment. Not even a hic-up later and Kuuna was resting on her. Eias couldn't fight back the sudden intrusion but at the same time felt it to be comforting. The girl really seemed to be at home there and no harm was being done. She managed to raise a hand and let it fall lightly onto Kuuna's back while things settled.
She turned her head to face Meryl who started speaking up. This visitor of the Lord was an unexpected guest. She didn't know who else could be visiting soon.
"I.. am not sure who you are talking about. Also, I didn't really realize just how close you two were." She said looking between Meryl and kuuna.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Meryl nodded, smiling at Eias with a mysterious smile.
"Oh you will see in time, don't worry. If the negotiations go as planned the guest will arrive sooner than you think."

Kuuna grasped the chest of Eias with a childish glee. As mature and as serious she needed to act all the time she was still quite young - and the effects of that now bubbled to the surface. She was happy but a bit concerned at the same time... fearful for not herself but for Eias and everyone here. She... felt responsible for what she had done and what she made the girls to embark upon.
"We..." she began, absentmindedly playing with the embroideries and the gem in the corset of Eias "Little Freezy helped me... a lot actually."
She sighed.
"When in Magnolia we were preparing for departure I was incredibly stressed out. Asking such a huge favor of people I just met and having to prepare them with not only the etiquette but also the disguises... it was not something that I had endured before. Not even the tragedy which occurred during Chibio's birth did phase me this much."

Meryl stroke Kuuna's hair briefly as she chuckled.
"You are still very young, Kuuna. That you have your expertise and the manner to act like an adult is admirable - but you can not shoulder a burden like that alone. Especially if you are trying to act tough when you yourself detest what you have to do."
Kuuna nodded, her face darkening.
" That is still no excuse for what I have done to them. Still no reason to treat them with complete disregard to their health...When I got the message that we do not have that much time left... and when I started to ruthlessly push you to your limits... I felt... horrible." she managed to say quietly. For long moments silence descended upon the room, nothing but Chibio's analysis and muttering was to be heard. It was clear that Kuuna found it difficult to find words.
"Seeing you and Aeris suffer that much reminded me of my own plight... my own anguish... the way how I was taught to be and behave. Never for a moment did I consider what effect that would have at you... but when I saw it with my own eyes..."
Her grip on Eias tightened.
"I know that mere feasts were not enough to make amends. I know that the turbulent times you are going through now are difficult... but... I still hope you can forgive me. This, all this... Aeris... Selene... you... everything is my fault... my reckless abaddon which drove me to act..."

Meryl watched in silence as the girl spoke, small tears cascading down Kuuna's cheek. The frost spirit turned to Eias with a reassuring nod.
"You may not know how many sleepless nights did Kuuna have back at Magnolia. How many times had she cried in her pillow only to have it dried up to show you her best form every day. It was then when I tried to aid her and guide her to the best of my abilities, giving her hope and the thought that she was doing everything fine, as she should be."
She stepped closer to the Muse, blowing a chilling kiss to caress her and the girl, the magic spreading into a diamond-like glittering as she did so, to soothe them.
"You did as your heart dictated, Kuuna. I am certain that Eias understands it too."
The girl took a moment to gather herself, hugging Eias even tighter.
"I... I can only hope. I know that you may be angry at me, rightfully so... but you must know that I consider you... one of my closest friend. Thank you. For everything."
She sobbed a bit then grinned.
"And... if you dare tell Aeris that I went all saddy-baddy at you... I will slap you! So don't you dare!"

 

[Bolts]

Eias nodded at Meryl's word and chose not to worry about it for the time being. Whoever this mystery person was, she would know in due time. She lay there allowing Kuuna to rest as well before emotions started spilling out from her. It was easy to tell she had held in a lot of guilt during the whole time. Eias picked up a 6th sense for it after traveling with Aeris for a long while. She just wanted to allow the girl the chance to understand herself a little more before things got brought up. It seems that time is now.
"Oh Kuuna.." she said rubbing her head a little with her weak arms. "I appreciate that you feel bad about everything. To be fair, without it, things may have been even more difficult. Perhaps it was because we were on short time that everything felt rushed and exhausting. Do not worry." She said sporting a small smile. "I do have to say though, that food was delicious." She chuckled.
She let her head rest a little further down into the pillow as light shown through the window's shutters.
"I am just glad you're okay. That whole situation was rather crazy to be quite honest. You looked so badly beaten, I was worried sick... But I am glad my friend is healthy now." She sighed with some relief though in the back of her mind, Selene was still badly hurt.
"Don't worry. Your secret is safe with me."

 

[DawnAntalios]

Kuuna did not immediately reply. She felt her hair being stroked and felt a strange, fuzzy sensation coursing through her body. It was... relaxing, heartwarming. It brought her back to the easy times when she was younger, playing along with her sister on the happy meadows of Ca-Elum. She reminisced how nice those moments of her life was... and was rather glad that she was able to relive these moments now. Cuddling with Eias she felt joy overwhelming her, hugging her tightly.
"That is the spirit, Eias. I knew I could trust you." she murmured happily "Don't worry about seeing me beaten - I am tougher than you think! I even-"

"Analysis Complete." the voice of Chibio announced with a stoic tone, turning to the others. "There is partial corruption in her life sustaining functions... and total corruption in her magical matrix."
Kuuna looked up.
"Total corruption?" she mused "What do you mean? I have never heard of something like that."
Chibio nodded.
"The blade she was struck with was meant for Lady Eias, I presume. It was coated with extremely potent poison which saps magic completely, making it unusable. Moreover, the poison burns the veins with as much ferocity as much magic courses through the individual's body... considering how exponential the power level of Lady Eias is she would have perished moments later. Though this girl is far less powerful her magic levels are respectably high... which is the main reason why she suffers so much from this."
Kuuna frowned.
"That is troubling. Poisons like that can not easily be cleansed from veins. It is very risky. Unless..."
"I recommend a similar power restricting treatment that you require, Master Kuuna." Chibio said "Considering how weak her life functions are she will need to wear a revitalizing corset like you do for... a time."
"More precisely?"
Chibio fell silent for a moment.
"If we do not delay... perhaps few months or a year. In worst case... for the rest of her life."

Kuuna was the one to be enveloped by silence. She knew the burden the slave girl will have to face all too well. But there was something which bothered her more.
"That... might be difficult to arrange." she said "Parts for something like that are extremely hard to come by... not to mention that her slave status prohibits her from technically owning anything. Without it though... her chances of survival are rather slim."
Meryl nodded.
"I can ask the Lord to keep her in stasis for an extended period of time. He can spare the magic if I manage to talk some sense into him. But... the acquisition of those items will be rather hard still."
Kuuna frowned.
"I can try and pull some strings but I am unable to get anything like a massive power source which could sustain her."
"Everliving Crystals - calling them by their proper name - are almost impossible to come by." Chibio explained "The Duchess herself gifted one such rare item to Kuuna after the Admiral coerced her... but for that a direct audience was necessary. Winning the favor of such an esteemed individual is... hard."

The room fell silent as everyone were contemplating on what to do. Neither Meryl nor Kuuna could come up with a solution from the top of their head and Chibio did not speak up in their stead either. In fact, as the two nobles were thinking hard the little robot girl made her way towards Eias, staring at her as she reached her. Her eyes - though clearly robotic - reflected something similar to a sentient being. She was... almost a fully living being, only bereft of those emotions which were so complex that her processor could not grasp it. Sitting down next to Eias she offered her hand to massage the girl's forehead. It was true that comforting words were not something she was fully able to grasp... but she tried her best to try and express her sympathy as she understood it.

 

[Bolts]

Eias was ready for the next wave of good and sad emotions to rise, but, Chibio intervened. She appeared to have finished her analysis on Selene and the results were terrifying. Eias tried to clutch her heart, but her body refused to move. It was as if the cold shock that crawled down her spine had frozen her in place. Had that sword hit her... She couldn't even believe there was such a dangerous item out in the world like that.
"I... I don't.." She managed to eek out. She trembled a little thinking of how close she was to dying. Even if it had grazed her, it would have been the end. She really owed Selene a good ending.
As she started to calm down, she listened in on the two's conversation on how to fix this. To Eias's sadness, they needed a rare material that wasn't often given out. Only with a few occasions would the queen even see a person let alone gift them something. Yet, this was on her now.
"Fine... We will get it." She said finally after the conversation had stopped moments before.
"I will get it actually. I have a chance and I will not let it slip by me. Meryl, if you can, please try to have the Lord keep his magic up. I don't know for how long, but it would mean a great deal with me." She said, slowly getting out of bed. Her body shook hard but she continued.
"There is now way I am letting her end this way. She has too much to look forward to." She stated stoically as she clenched a fist hard.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Meryl's and Kuuna's head turned at Eias' statement. Being shocked at her even being able to stand up the little orange haired girl immediately started to walk up to her, trying to ensure that she was all right. But when she had seen the determination on her drained face she was certain the girl was dead serious about it.
"Eias I know you are determined... but that sounds like insanity! Even from you!" she said, looking at the girl with pure concern "Magic will not help you in this, it is impossible to charm or get into the good graces of the Duchess easily! You just can not think this would work!"
Meryl's face darkened and Chibio observed her and the trembling Muse. Her analysis this time was quick and efficient.
"Negative. Lady Eias definitely seems to have a plan. Not an easy one but a plan."
Meryl slowly nodded.
"She intends to partake in the game commencing soon." she said quietly "She will be a competitor in the Chess Game."

Kuuna's face paled.
"No... that can not be right! It must not be right! Some kind of error for sure!" she said, turning to Eias "Is that true? You know how dangerous that can be? It is... it is unwise to go there! Why did you decide something so stupid without our counsel?"
"She merely accepted my humble request, Lady Kuuna." an eerily familiar voice sounded from the entrance, making the girl freeze in fear. Arriving home earlier than he was supposed to, Lord Latosius entered the room with confidence and with a cold smile on his face. As usual, his presence commanded silence and focus, betraying none of his emotions, save for the fact that he was fixating on Eias, intend to grab her attention. No one dared to move for a while but he, calmly, broke this silence effortlessly.
"No need for such fear, Lady Kuuna. Your presence here is as concealed as your future in front of others." he chimed "In the eyes of other nobles you are still missing, including those who might... mistreat you."
Kuuna said no word but Latosius did not even care. Looking at Meryl he smiled.
"Lady Meryl, could you lead the brilliant inventor and her masterful creation on a small tour? I intend to speak with the Lady Muse in private. Oh, and do tend to that noble man downstairs too. He is rather furious at something."
Meryl nodded, signaling to the two of them to come. Kuuna, glancing at Eias one last time, followed her and soon enough the room was empty save for the unconscious Selene and the two nobles. The air stood still as Latosius glanced at the two of them, his stoic visage finally focusing on Eias.

"Even at the twilight of your power you radiate confidence. A worthy person for the Muse heritage for sure." he said calmly, walking over to Selene. Tendrils of dark energies seeped forth from his fingertips, intruding into the mouth and nostrils of the girl. For a moment it seemed as if she was flinching in pain but soon enough her body lulled back to stillness.
"Brave or foolish... hard to decide what your friend is, Lady Eias. Her undying devotion to you is one thing that frankly surprised me. I did not expect Bellidan to use such powerful tools so early - you have indeed earned her ire somehow to make her so desperate."
He nodded.
"During their trip around my quarters Lady Meryl will invite Lady Kuuna and Chibio to be my guests. They will be permitted to dwell here in secret until they find the origin of the Netherbane Poison - the one which was clearly designed to slay magi. Such a rare and dangerous toxin is very hard to come by... and I want to find out about it immediately."
He smiled.
"You look exhausted, Lady Muse. Your hand... your drained face... you yearn for some sustenance of power."
He walked closer to her, still smiling coldly.
"Why don't you lay back down just for a moment? It is only the two of us, no need to play brave. I assume you have few questions to me and now I offer you a brief moment of clarity, if you accept it. But for that I need not to see you struggle - however elegant that might be... save that little kink for the one who actually loves drinking in your... feminine sight."
He allowed a small chuckle for himself, then looked at Eias with his serious expression.

 

[Bolts]

Eias stood there strongly even though her legs wanted to give out. She heard the pleas of her friends but everything went silent once a familiar voice came forth. Eias' head turned to the door way where she saw the Lord. His sudden appearance was out of the blue and made the current situation feel awkward and off. Still, she kept her stance while everyone was here. Her real worry was Kuuna being seen here, though, that was quickly dealt with. For whatever reason, the Lord was rather welcoming though it gave off a sinister feeling every now and then. Once the other's were ushered out, she nodded to him and quickly took a seat. She propped herself up by the head rest, rubbing her legs after straining them.
"You would be correct. I feel as though I was coerced into a dangerous game without my knowing. This Chess game. It isn't a board game is it? Why was everyone so shocked to hear I was in it? What dangers lie before me?" She said meeting his gaze with her own strong sight.
"I know what the prize is, but, even that can outweigh the dangers." She fully intended to continue no matter what. She just wanted to know how crazy she was being before hand. That way she could at least plan for the worst.
"And thank you... for not outing Kuuna."

 

[DawnAntalios]

The Lord did not immediately continue to talk. He observed Eias as she sat on the bed and regained her composure. As always, Latosius' face was impossible to read but it was clear that he was not going to hide anything from her any more. He walked up next to her - still keeping his distance - and nodded at her statement regarding Kuuna.
"The Admiral's sister is a prodigy, as you may have seen." he said plainly "Ruthless and effective, just to my liking. She will not be harmed by me, I can assure you that... I am many things, Lady Eias... an enigma, a mystery and illusion... but I am not a murderer."

He looked at the slumbering Selene once more and he turned to Eias.
"You are indeed correct in the assumption that it is no mere table game I have invited you to. The Chess Game is the most important event we can have in Ca-Elum. While during other occasions there would be a simple battle of wits here will be a battle of force as well: the three, most prominent and most powerful noble families in the country shall join in a battle where only one may win the ultimate prize."
He smiled coldly.
"Worry not, no death shall follow, no blood shall be spilled. Nay... it is only the fact that only one Queen shall have the King - me."
He waved with his hand and just as before the room turned into a void-zone, engulfing both of them.
"Each of the three families will have a Queen - the matriarch of the family, in this case you. They will be assisted and accompanied by their beloved partners who will choose from one of three roles: the bishop, the knight or the rook. Only one of these may be present on the field of battle and different power restrictions apply to all three. A rook, for one, will be allowed to use every sort of power to defend his Queen but none for himself. The Knight may use his magic in a roundabout way to defend his chosen and himself... and the bishop, of course is the aggressor who only focuses on the offensive, leaving his Queen to guard herself. Only one Queen may get in my graces... and that one Queen shall meet her majesty as well."
He paused, allowing thinks to sink in.
"The battlefield, of course, will be a gigantic chess plate, upon which I will conjure a labyrinth. Finding your way through and defeating the others will be your main goal... whilst also avoiding the traps as best as you can. Best the labyrinth and your peers and you shall win... fail and... well, the prize will be gone."

He paused for a bit yet again.
"I wish to warn you about something: the Chess Even had one long lasting champion who triumphed year after year and accummlated a lot of wealth as well. He is a crafty man who is unique in the sense since he commands his 'matriarch' around whilst others do the opposite. He is cunning, powerful and potentially very dangerous... and is also the man whose... 'property' now lays on the bed next to you. The one who you know as Gruff."

He nodded again.
"I opted to choose a partner for you for this event. He is a... clever lord himself, shadowed by his even cleverer little girl. They will make a fine addition to your team I think."

 

[Bolts]

Eias allowed the Lord to come closer as he spoke, his words were heart warming though still odd coming from him. She was happy to hear that he liked Kuuna. Enough so to keep her a secret from those who want her to fall. With each conversation, she felt a little easier to be near the lord, though there were still the odd mysteries that surrounded him naturally. As he went on to talk about the battlefield, Eias couldn't help but wonder how often it happened. For someone to gain such a mass of wealth and popularity was mind boggling to her, though, meeting with the queen was an honor. Especially after gaining a prize from her.
"I.. see. I never realized just how cunning this Gruff was... He was so quiet and reserved, it was like he didn't even care." She turned to Selene. "So, I am guessing Selene was his queen? still is though he will have to get a new one I presume." she didn't know how to feel at this moment but she knew she was still going to go through with it.

At the mention of hand picking her teammates, she looked to the Lord.
"you did? Who?" She said, her curiosity peaking.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Latosius nodded.
"The best veil a noble can has is his or her manners, my Lady. Gruff is a person who would never boast about his successes and his words are rather few as he focuses his will to be shown in his actions. He is an old fashioned person who clings to what he has acquired earlier in his life. He respects power and authority more than anything and he is rather... aggravated when things turn to something he can not understand... or when someone behaves like they shouldn't."
Ha paused.
"All in all, it would be advisable if you... did not underestimate him."

When the mention of the nobles came Latosius smiled. Just as he was about to answer a servant arrived, the same one as did before. He informed the Lord briefly that his... guests... have arrived which made him quite happy for the briefest moment.
"Very well, do send them in."
Few moments later, after the creaking door gave way to to figures which were eager to enter small knocks on the floor signaled the arrival of the first person. The little girl who was clad in elegant crimson garments looked around the room, her ruby red eyes quickly finding her target, the Muse. Her expression was stoic and respectful, containing her emotions perfectly. Latosius, seeing how formal the little girl behaved, nodded.
"Go on, Little Lady. Welcome your... mother."
Still restraining her emotions and keeping a good pace Eon finally walked up to her target, eyeing Eias carefully. Only from close up were the tear-stains of her soft cheeks visible and only after staring at her for long moments did the little spirit smile finally. Carefully climbing up on her lap Eon hugged the magical girl.
"I missed you so much..." was all she could manage as she embraced her with all her might, warmth emanating from her body.

The second form who now entered was much more composed. Her steps were slow and elegant, as if an enigma was entering the room and not a person. Her long, black hair was floating in the gentle breeze washing over the room, her crimson eyes gently observing the happy couple. With a tired, weary smile on her expression the now quite elegant and sophisticated Aeris entered the room, taking her place briefly next to Latosius.

"I figured a better couple would be impossible to find." Latosius continued, glancing at Aeris momentarily before returning his gaze to Eias "And a strong bond will be required in order for the competition to be good."
Aeris said nothing for now, she only watched her friend cuddling with Eon - or well, Eon cuddling with all her might for sure. Latosius nodded at Aeris.
"I think I will leave you for the moment. Let this unification be complete... and joyful."

And thus he departed the room, Aeris following his departing figure gently. It appeared that her form was more slender but also was not heaving as much. Tendrils of void energy seemingly made her corset and her clothing lighter, no doubt an effect of Latosius' spellwork. Worn out, a bit pale and tired Aeris still looked as ready as ever, her vigilant eyes now returning to Eias, meeting her gaze. Slowly and steadily the girl began walking up to the Muse, making sure that each step she took was something she memorized, fully drinking in the glory that was Eias. When she finally reached her the smile on her face widened - and her crimson eyes began to sparkle.
"Hello, Eias." she whispered, her stern voice fading a bit as she spoke... though not from weakness. She wished to be warm, affectionate... and perhaps a bit sensual as well as she spoke "It it good to see you again. We have missed you."

 

[Bolts]

Eias understood what the Lord spoke of. If this man had won several times in a row, there was no way she could underestimate him. It would be a death sentince for Selene should she. She nodded her head as to acknowledge his words. Was she really ready for this? Soon after, Eias head him speaking of letting "them" in. The partners for this battle were coming up now? She waited with anticipation, wondering just who he hand picked for this event.
Once the door creaked open, Eias's eyes widened with surprise at the first figure. The small fire spirit. Eias still felt fairly weak but she didn't need to move as Eon came to her and began cuddling near instantly. She smiled and let the little girl squeeze with all her strength.
Who came next made her eyes water a little. It had been a only a few days but it felt so long since seeing her. Her happiness shown through anything at this moment. Once the girl was close enough, she heard the gentle whispers.
"I missed you so much too! Now get over here!" She said reaching out to nab the Aeris' collar and drag her down, planting a kiss on her lips.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Eon felt the happy emotions surging within Eias as she spotted the crimson eyed girl. The little fire spirit immediately knew what the outcome would be so she gently hopped off from the lap of Eias, granting room for this... action to transpire. Deciding that the two would be preoccupied with one another she backed off a bit, walking up to Selene's bed to inspect the state of the injured girl instead.

Frankly, Aeris was not as clairvoyant as Eon was and did not see the kiss coming - though looking back at it she should have actually expected something like that. Dragged by the Muse the surprised girl was drawn in for a kiss and Aeris felt that strange surge of emotions when their lips touched. She decided to reciprocate. Closing her eyes she kissed back and replicated the happy emotion Eias was feeling to the best of her knowledge. Powerful emotions surged through her body as she felt the blissful unification to reach its emotional peak. She held the kiss as long as her breath allowed her to... the let go.
"You are getting masterful at this. Were you practicing in my absence?" she smiled happily, sitting down next to Eias on the bed. Putting her gloved hand on hers she felt the little trembling within her. Immediately her eyes turned concerned.
"You... you are..." she began, understanding the situation. She closed her eyes and her gem immediately flared up. Grunting momentarily she felt some of her energy of life force flowing into Eias.
"I have heard what happened at the party from the Lord. My heart skipped when I listened to all of it." she said with a solemn voice. "I... I was so afraid that I would lose you..."

With her other hand she touched the soft cheeks of Eias, true worry reflecting in her eyes.
"It... it felt like an eternity since we were separated. When I woke up and Gruff told me the bargain you struck... I was horrified. Every moment I was praying for your safety..."
She let out a sigh then a tired smile appeared on her face.
"You should have seen the moment when Eon woke up and heard what has happened. She threw such an intense fit that she almost burned down the house we were in." she glanced at the direction of the spirit "She was truly desperate to see you... as was I, I think."
She leaned closer to her, her voice turning to a whisper. Her eyes began watering a bit.
"I... I am happy that you are fine."

 

[Bolts]

Eias made the kiss last for the longest time in forever. It felt so good for her to have her friend back with her. She was even a little surprised to feel Aeris giving it her all in terms of emotions. After the moments passed, she released her grip a little to allow them to breath. She let her hands rest a little as the shook slightly from over exerting herself. She felt Aeris take her hands and get a rush of energy that she knew was coming straight from her. She wanted to give some back but at the same time, it felt great.
"T-thank you." she said with lines of red coming to her cheeks.
She looked down when the topic of her waking up to Gruff's words. It came as no surprise that Eon would freak out, and, she smiled at the thought. She felt bad though, leaving them behind like she did. It was a deal and she wasn't even sure she held up her side. She just let Selene get hurt and it was all her fault.
"Sorry... I know you must have been very worried. I obviously didn't realize the threats that were out there till now." She turned her head to Selene who was laying next to Eon.
"If it wasn't for her, The Lord said I would most likely have perished from the poison used. I can't just let her suffer like that. I need to repay her." She looked back up to Aeris once more.
"I'm really happy I am fine too. And that you and Eon are as well!" She said as tears came to her eyes.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Aeris nodded with a solemn expression.
"We have all underestimated the intricacy of Ca-Elum I think. Never in my life did I think that I would end up in a place so heavily intertwined with subtlety and various concealed truths. Alas... that is why we are here together... to solve these issues."
Eon did not first pay attention to them. She stared at the unconscious girl with a serious expression, listening to Eias as she spoke about the girl's intervention. The fire spirit frowned.
"You would not believe what one is willing to do for the one she cares about." she said, nodding to herself "A debt of such magnitude will be difficult to repay but I believe she is... more than willing to negotiate. If she survives, that is."

Silence descended upon the room after Eias confessed how much she missed the girls. Eon managed a small smile whilst Aeris mimicked the same. Her emotions now receded, returning to her normal self but she was still warm and caring towards Eias.
"Whatever we must do now to succeed we will do it together." she said "The Lord informed about the Chess Game... and about the part I will play. According to the rules there are two spots which can still be fulfilled: either the rook or the knight. Both having benefits I wish you to have the final word about my role - I can either be a protective bastion to you or a punisher who will still guide you but will stray from the path to fight our opponents. Honestly, I prefer the former... if I could protect you..."
She closed her eyes.
"I am foolish and I tend to forget how powerful you actually are." she smiled "I am so caught up in the complete disregard to my own safety that I am willing to sacrifice myself even when it is not needed. Something... strange for sure but well, it would be for you. Still..."
She looked into the eyes of Eias.
"You have proven to be quite the adept mage, Eias. Your mastery over the bubbles and music itself made me believe that you are an incredible person, one who is not to be trifled with. I am in awe of your progress and I want not to impede it - I know that I will need not to pamper you, to always protect you..."
She now leaned very close to Eias, giving a kiss to her on her forehead. This, as she had learned from books, meant that she deeply cared about her.
"No matter what danger will come I know we can overcome it."

Eon watched the two of them from the safe distance of Selene's bed. She did not need to turn to feel the emotions raging in the air... and she knew all too well what this meant. They were really close to it... Aeris was really close to it... The fire spirit almost trembled as she felt the change in the wind permeating her very aura. Her fire within her grew colder as slight panic enveloped her for moments. Her tiny frame did not move, just stoically watching Selene.
She knew that her struggle against her fate was futile. After all, it was all preordained long years ago... and nothing, not even the love of Eias would change this.

She smiled. How fleeting everything felt in this moment was actually weird to her. Time as a concept never bothered Eoniaya, the Spirit of Flames. Yet now... as she felt the love within Eias' heart and something within Aeris she knew. Meryl was right... the revelation was coming.

 

[Bolts]

Eias found solace in Aeris' words as she spoke of fixing this place. It only rose when Eon pitched in as well. She was just... so happy to have them back again after the crazy house. Once the talk of the Chess Games came up, Eias thought deeply on how to go about it.
"No, I think it would be for the best." She said aloud. "Yeah... You protecting me while Eon takes them in the offensive." She turned to Eon who seemed a little down. It wasn't given off by a look or posture. It simply held a feeling lingering in the air. Eias wasn't sure the cause, but she would ask later.
"Our resident fire spirit has as much power as she does passion. If I know anything about you. It's that you have loads of passion. Mix that with your fire and we have a strong attack. Aeris being on defense will help out too. Using, hopefully, ice magic to create some sort of defense." She looked to Aeris once again.
"And even if you can't use your ice magic during the game, I know you can come up with something even better." She said confidently. Even if Aeris wasn't the most skilled when it came to direct combat, she still knew a lot more than she did. Skill only gets you so far. They needed Aeris' knowledge this time around.
"If we win this, everything should start heading in our favor. Meeting with the queen, fixing Selene, and making changes that need to be done if we are to free the citizens of this cursed harp.

 

[DawnAntalios]

Aeris was fired up and quite enthusiastic at Eias' plan. She knew not how did she get into the good graces of Latosius but she was surely happy that she did. The close proximity of the Muse gave her a bit of a happy feeling, Courage coursed through her body and felt pumped up... as much as she could from her clothing, anyway.
Pulling Eias closer for some comforting tugs Aeris looked at Eon... and felt the distance in the spirit's mood. Something, again, was bothering her... something that she knew was related to her but could not entirely explain what it was exactly. Eon turned towards them, her face solemn and somber... and shook her head.
"By the traditions here I will probably be unable to participate." she said "Though I am bound to Aeris I act as your true daughter here, something which makes dismissing and resummoning me impossible, not only because it would seem as violation of rules but also because it would make things much more complicates for you both. I have lingered in this realm so much that a massive amount of energy had been invested in me. Should you decide to dismiss me now... well, it would take an even greater toll to summon me back."
Aeris did not react immediately, just listened. Noticing this Eon continued.
"I can channel my power into you, though. That much I am able to do..."
Aeris shook her head.
"No. I know what that means for you - I will not jeopardize your well being, Eon. Transferring power for you means transferring your own essence, your life. I will not allow that."
The spirit let out a sardonic smile.
"Not like you have a choice in that." she said quietly but then spoke up "Meryl informed me briefly about this event and just as Eias said, it is important. If you manage to win this then you will be finally one step closer to reaching that artifact of yours which can free the people from its yoke. To that end - and to ensure your safety - I will make any sacrifices if it means that you two can live happily..."

Aeris now stood up, a serious, angry look being evident on her face. Eon immediately silenced herself, knowing very well that when the girl had something like that on her face she was not to be deterred. The crimson eyed noble walked towards her and Eon stood her rather fearsome look. Without hesitation she nodded.
"I know that look very well. I understand your choice. I will do everything in my power to hel-"
A gloved hand slapped Eon. The fire spirit, startled, stared at Aeris.
"But... I thought..."
A second slap came. Though gentle it was firm and the angry face of Aeris followed it.
"If Eias had taught me one thing which I want to impart upon others... then it is NOT to always sacrifice yourself." Aeris said quietly to the startled spirit, fighting with the confused look of Eon. "Do you know how much uncertainty you cause to those who care about you? Do you know how much pain of fear must they endure after you do something that foolish? Because I did not at the start... and only now did I start to grasp it."

"I... don't understand... why?" Eon spoke up, still confused.
Aeris picked up the little spirit who was at the verge of sobbing, bringing her back to Eias to the bed.
"I thought you would know me better than to say stupid things like that, Eon." she said as they sat down, carefully paying attention that she was in arm's reach of the Muse. "I care about you... and so does Eias. You may be a daughter to us in title but... for me you are still family. I will not allow such foolish things from you."
Eon was now sobbing, confusion, relief and fear twisting within her. It was too much to handle for her... she understood nothing now. Stroking her hair with gentle movement of hand Aeris turned to Eias.
"And this applies to me too, Eias... and to you too, I hope." she nodded "Too much have I blindly jeopardized myself and you... too many times have I made the wrong decision only to be saved by fate. I will still stand by your side, I will still protect you... but I will try not to always dance on the verge of death to worry you at the same time. "
She smiled. She did not hear the murmur Eon let out during her crying.
"Why... must you make this... so much harder...?"