Zaeious

Chapter 15: Impending Doom

2009-08-28T13:19:00.005+08:00

"...we should be on our way as soon as possible." Mirandria said as her hair waved gently from the cool breeze stirring the remains of the tent.

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A distant away, the multiple defenses constructed by Danger crumpled, releasing potent residual of magic energies into the air. Unaware of the situation, many creatures were instantly vapourised upon contact with the negative energies. Silence descended quickly as death lingered on the still air.

Clashing thermals of wind generated a tornado spinning into the epicenter. The wind stirred the energies, creating a swirling vortex of destructive force hurling straight towards the path of the broken tent.

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-Thiss be-e th- lasst cursse to-o you-!-

Mizon jumped as the air echoed from Danger's voice. "What's happening? Wasn’t Danger defeated by Engan Forgia? Why-?!"

Everyone stared at Mizon's face. Freinz was the first to react. "RUN!"

Mirandria began to summon a rising waveform but whatever energies she summoned were sucked into the approaching dark vortex. "It's no use! RUN!" Feoren clutched her hands and pulled her after the rest.

Kirlika managed to cast a time lock to contain the vortex temporaryly, giving them sufficient time to draw distance away from the gaining doom. Kirlika shaked as the attacking tonado changed direction towards them. "It IS no use! What gives it the ability to track us? No spirit's powers should be able to reach past the Portal of Void!"

"It's me. The mark which Danger set on me still exists..." Mizon stood up and faced the rest. "Jukla, take them somewhere safe-"

"NO! We live for this quest and die for whatever it gives! Without you, we cannot continue." Jukla looked towards Mirandria. "Can you do anything with Freinz to freeze or slow that attack?"

Mirandria started to speak when bright lights flashed beside her. Givera, Feoren's Guardian Spirit, and Civa, Freinz's Guardian Spirit, appeared. Jukla stared as the two Guardian Spirits greeted the group. "I didn't know they exist!"

Kirlika stepped between Feoren and Freinz. "No, no, no! I'll not allow you ametuers to waste your lives when you don't even know how to collaborate attacks!" Enva flashed into space as Kirlika attempted to stop Givera and Civa.

Stop; let's hear from them before concluding blindly!

"Fine, what do you have in mind?"

"We came up with an idea to stop it, but at the expense of this forest." Feoren began.

"WHAT?!" Jukla raged. "This is MY forest! I would not allow you idiots to temper with my..." Mizon pulled him away and attempted to calm him down.

"Continue..." Mizon beckoned.

"By using Freinz and my ultimate attacks, with the enhancing ability of our Guardian Spirits, we can implode this vortex by over-charging it with static though since we do not have an Electricity-based Elemental with us. The theory of extreme temperatures colliding into each other would-"

"MY FOREST...!" Jukla wailed from behind.

"-combust that black thing with an unknown radius..."

"NO..." Jukla shook uncontrollably from intense emotions. "...I beg you...no..."

"...likely to consume this entire forest." Freinz flinched as Jukla lunged at him. Kirlika managed to stop him from hitting Freinz.

"Since Kirlika's Guardian Spirit can cast effective shields from pure elemental attacks, we would presumely be safe." Mirandria noted.

"I HATE YOU!" Jukla fell upon Freinz and Feoren, binding them with living vines and sqeezing their life out. "I'LL KILL YOU!"

"Stop it Jukla, or you will face me." Kirlika's eyes glowed as Enva floated menacingly towards him.

Jukla paused in mid-strike, allowing Mizon to knock him unconscious. "Proceed quickly, else we can forget about Jukla's wrath to our deaths!"

Feoren rose, grasping for breath while Freinz struggled to stay conscious. "His grip is terrible. I’d rather-" Feoren stopped as Kirlika turned her glowering stare at him. "Fine, fine, but promise me and Freinz our safety after this."

Givera and Civa took hands and began to glow like Kirlika's eyes. Enva retreated with Kirlika behind them. Casting a negating shield, Kirlika entend out her mind and fused with Enva. Her vision sharpened as she began to identify all the possible weaknesses in the approaching black swirling vortex.

Communicating through Enva, Kirlika instructed Givera and Civa on Elemental Magnification and Elemental Transfusion between them, Feoren and Freinz. Feoren's body shivered as energies flooded into him. Similarly, Freinz's body shook from the effect of the energies around them. Shortly, they began to cast their respective contra-spells...

Chapter 14: Engan Forgia

2009-06-08T20:29:00.005+08:00

Jukla felt coldness began seeping into his dying heart. Darkness enveloped his vision. From the corner of his fading eyes, he saw a movement but not before his heart stopped.

Kirlika was thrown ten feet into the air as Danger attacked, blasting the tent apart. Casting a quick spell, she cushioned her fall despite the accelerating speed as she plunged head first into the soft soil. She pretended to be unconscious in order to avoid Danger's attention. In secrecy, Kirlika began to weave the strongest summoning spell, Engan Forgia.

As Kirlika saw Jukla being defeated before Danger, she hurriedly completed the Engan Forgia before releasing it.

Danger sensed movement as Kirlika threw her summoned energies into him. "Too late! You shall pay for killing my father!"

Light poured from Kirlika's hands, blinding her surroundings into a white space. Danger's form shuddered as the spell struck him.

-Nooooooo...release me! RELEASE ME NOW!-

"NEVER! Into the light come forth now, might and light be of one! Raise the truth from heaven's will, my strength of forte built the power of one!"

From the light, a figure emerged. Stepping into space, the figure began to take form before Danger. White silvery cloak covered the body as a shining mask revealed the face. Wings spreaded majestically from the figure.

-Engan Forgia!-

~It's been a while Danger. Look what vengeance has made you...~

-Enough! I'll not allow you to interfere!-

~Will you not? I suppose so. Your work is done; these mortals have been chosen by HIM. DO NOT OPPOSE!~

Engan Forgia's words became a wall of force, throwing Danger back. Clapsing his hands, he opened the Way into the Void and sent Danger sprawling into the dimension beyond. Engan Forgia turned towards Kirlika.

~Foolish girl, she should have know better than to summon me while knowing that it would probably cost her life.~

Looking down at the corpses below him, Engan Forgia sighed.

~I'll save you this time round, but no more.~

Touching Kirlika, Engan Forgia summoned her spirit from the Void and revived her...

"Ahhh! I'm -?!" Mizon stared at the ceiling of the tent. "What happened?"

Jukla touched his chest where Danger had pieced through with his attack but found no injuries. "We are...saved?"

Mirandria and the rest jolted awake. "It seems that Danger was defeated but how?"

"I summoned Engan-"

"What?!" Everyone stared at Kirlika.

"Such power! You should have died too..." Frienz started.

"Yes but it seems otherwise..." Feoren continued.

Kirlika shook her fur. "He saved us, but even I do not know why..."

"Nonetheless we should continue our journey without delay. At least our present danger is now gone-"

"Not now, but forever." Kirlika corrected her father. "Engan Forgia is a creature of light; he will never tolerate dark twisted spirits like Danger."

"So..."

Chapter 13: Predestined Fate

2009-05-03T21:30:00.006+08:00

The tent was blown apart as a spectral being floated toward them. The air seemed to freeze as the wind died down. The forest’s ensuing silence was magnified as Danger approached.

-Finally, I shall have you pay for your imprudence!-

"Kirlika! Do something!" Jukla shouted as he began to weave a spell. "Mirandria, where's Freinz and Feoren-?"

-Dead.-

Jukla froze as Danger swept Mirandria aside. Kirlika crumpled unto the ground unconscious. "Hold it great spirit! We meant no harm-"

-Silence! No harm? This ignorant fool attempted to steal! Without the magic of Regnad, this entire world would sink beneath Geantar.-

"Do you mean the Great Fire Lord Regnad? What has the power to do with-"

-Fools! It was HIS powers! I was sent to guard his seat of throne three hundred years ago. In order to protect it, I set several defenses against any potential threats!-

Cold seeped into his body as Jukla fought against the overwhelming presence of the Ancient.

-He must be punished!-

Jukla stared as Danger unleashed a wave of dark energy into Mizon. Mizon shuddered as the force slammed into him, ripping his chest apart. Blood froze before it could gush out of the open wound. Anger flared within Jukla as Danger began to retreat.

"No! No, you shall not!"

Durin ga har frenarre hur ge ta

Jukla summoned huge spiritual veins from the ground and held Danger from retreating.

-Fool! Do you seek death?-

Dark balls of energy exploded into Jukla. Darkness slowly enveloped him as he hit the ground.

-Be gone foul creatures! And good riddance...-

Chapter 12: Danger

2008-07-01T10:49:00.008+08:00

One week of travelling had worn out Mizon and his group. The atmosphere beneath the dense canopy of the forest was humid and cold. No wind stirred the leaves on the forest bed. Silence seemed to envelope any sound. There was no bird or animal to be seen anywhere.

Jukla, who had been taking the lead, stopped suddenly and brought them closer. "I was certain we had travelled here an hour ago...since I raised this forest myself..."

Mizon took a quick glance around his surroundings. "Something's not right, we might have been caught in an illusion."

-Mizon-

"Huh? Did someone call me?"

"No?..." Everyone around him answered, except the same distant voice he heard.

-Yesss-

"Kirlika, did you hear-" Turning around, Mizon found himself staring into Kirlika's blank eyes. "Kirlika!..."

-It's a pleasure to meet you again Mizon, after so many futile years of search...-

"Jukla...?" Stepping back, Mizon realised that everyone had fallen into a trance.

-It's useless. I have spent these years to make an invincible illusion spell. One which will doom you for ever!-

"Help!..."

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"...wake up!" Mizon jolted awake and found himself staring into Kirlika's eyes.

Making sure that he was not dreaming still, he pinched himself. "Ouch!"

"Yes, now you ARE awake." Kirlika moved aside to allow room for Jukla. "You have been asleep for three days. Every hour, you would be screaming and trashing about. What was it which you have dreamt?"

Pushing himself into sitting position, Mizon looked about. "Dan-ger...Danger has came to warn me about death..."

"What are you muttering about? Who is this 'Danger'?" Mirandria pushed aside the tent's flaps and entered, carrying a jug of cold water.

"Danger was once an Ancient living beneath the lake of this forest, the lake was called Regnad. It was spelled exactly in reverse of the Ancient's name." Jukla eyes wondered off into the distant trees beyond the tent. "Regnad meant 'Haven' in the Ancient language and was sought after by other Ancients for it's tremendous magic hidden in it's waterbed. In order for Danger to protect Regnad, an illusion spell was cast to deter any unwelcomed visitor. The spell has long vanished along with the death of Danger but it was rumoured that Mizon once confronted the spirit of Danger several years ago."

"Yes, it is no rumour though..." Mizon took a sip from the jug before continuing. "I was desperate then. In order for me to stop my foolish brother, I attempted to steal the lake's powers, which in turn caused the death of Jukla's forest indirectly."

"Those farmers must had overhead my scouting party when we rested at one of their huts as we discussed about the lake's powers. They must had assumed treasures around the lake then." Mizon paused and returned an apologetic look to Jukla.

"Don't give me that look, since you have forgiven me on my mistake, I should forgive you too. Since you are not involved in the act itself, I have nothing against you now." Jukla placed a reassuring arm on Mizon. "So...you actually summoned Danger?!"

"No! No, I mean it's too risky to do summoning, what's more to be summoning a spirit in it's death ground is similar to suicide!" Mizon stopped Jukla. "I simply attempted to contact you first before making a move but unfortunately, you went into Regenerative Hibernation."

"I took my chances and began to cast Prye Sight to locate the magic source but without realising a counter-spell placed by Danger." Mizon took a long drink from the jug before resuming. Kirlika noticed that he was shivering. "The counter-spell was so complicated that I ended up summoning Danger instead!"

"So you DID summon Danger!" Jukla exclaimed. "Why in the world did you not wake me?"

"I dare not waste time. Anyway, the most scariest part of the spell was not the summoning itself. It marked the intruder and attempted to subvert the intruder under Danger's control. I was marked as a result of my folly. I managed to prevent Danger from controlling me but at the expense of my entire energy. Danger refused to release me and cast an illusion spell which trapped me for one week within the forest. When I escaped the forest, I discovered that my scouting party had been annihilated. They simply disappeared-" Mizon gasped as a force hit him on his chest.

"Father!" Kirlika held his hand as his eyes turned blank. "What's wrong-?"

-Finally...-

Chapter 11: Tale's Night

2008-06-30T11:13:00.005+08:00

"...and there they are, my sweeties!" Jukla laughed heartily.

"So shall we began?" Mizon asked, anxious to know more from the secretive Jukla.

"Patience my friend, let's have dinner to fill our empty bellies, I hardly had a decent meal all these long boring years. Vengeance had taken much out of my old body. I am an idiot to cling to meaningless purposes." Jukla helped to set the table, using his Essence to grow an old oak table out of the earth.

"You can do something like that?!" Kirlika squealed in delight at the delicate craftsmanship of the round table.

Wooden utensils and plates are similarly grown from the earth, each fitting the hand sizes of each of them. Jukla grinned, happy to provide small services to 'atone' for his mistakes.

"I thank your details Jukla but still, since we have already forgiven you, stop being self conscious. You are our lasting friend, be it for life or in death." Kirlika smiled gently at the old warm face.

"Now shall we go procure some meat? Else we'll start starving before we even began." Grathal struggled to a small wooden chair just right for his size.

"Right away!" Feoren and Freinz answered.

An hour later, the meal was prepared. Everyone else by the table began to salivate as the pungent aroma reached the noses. "Sweet!"

"No! It's bitter-sweet!"

"Nah! Must be sour..."

"Just sweet, bitter yet sour..."

"What are you talking about? It's-"

"Now now, the food is here so taste it to believe it..." Kirlika spread out the dishes skillfully. "It's thanks to Mirandria that I can cook such heavenly food."

Mirandria blushed at the praise. "What is that stream called by the way?"

"Karnia Stream. A stream which feed this huge forest for miles and miles. This stream doesn't flow straight after that bush you saw back there. It is fed from the majestic Karn River further north, towards the city of Ourean. In the heart of the forest, extending yards from all direction, is a deep ancient lake which saved me from that forest fire. The stream leaks from the lake, meandering for miles like a flat spiral to join back the Karn River here." Jukla pointed enthusiastically while eating his food quickly. "But...when I was hiding in the lake, I touched upon the Earth's Cry-"

"Do you mean the mental voice of Earth itself?!" Mirandria asked in alarm, preparing to swallow another mouthful.

"Yes. And it said of terrible waves of destruction tunneling into the core of this planet." Jukla's faced turned serious, pausing his fork and spoon. "It said of a force, foreign from the birth of the Earth, which would threaten the survival of this planet. We might need to pass by the lake if we need to reach Ourean much faster. An alternative would bring us behind your kingdom into the Franan River, adjacent to the Karn River and much wild and ferocious in the currents."

"I heard of it before. I once travelled it's waters and almost died fighting the clashing currents from it's depth." Mirandria shivered, feeling full from the feelings of bad memories.

"Why are there clashing currents?" Freinz's curiosity got the better of him as he tuck his food in.

"What lies to the west of Franan River?" Mirandria returned the question.

"No...it can't be...it's my homeland...Franan Duria..." Feoren jumped up in surprise, almost knocking off his plate. "Which means the cooler land on the east bank and the warmer...no, the burning land on the west bank caused the currents to twist and turn due to severe temperature differences!"

"Exactly, if you want to find any Elemental Guardians, though the Franan Duria have a good chance, we would need to cross Franan River." Mirandria stated, pushing aside her empty plate.

"What if we cross at higher grounds?" Kirlika ventured as she began to clear the plates.

"Impossible!" Grathal paused, handing his plate to Kirlika. "The Franan and Karn Rivers are fed by the Omegan Sea. The Ending Sea of the Inner Lands, where the waters are said to kill many brave-hearts who dared to attempt a crossing."

"It seems that our lands are dangerous..." Mizon thought aloud, his mouth still full of food.

"Not really, if we trek for a week, we would easily reached Ourean. Ourean has the best aircrafts, it would help us do a crossing if we want to." Feoren suggested.

"Are you mad? The treacherous waves of the Omegan Sea is fuelled by the crazy winds from the Eval Northern Heights, the most mountainous range you can find ever to exist in this planet!" Freinz tapped Feoren's head with his spoon.

"Wait! That's it! The Eval Northern Heights is the birth place of Earth, we might find the source of destruction there!" Jukla exclaimed, casting a devouring spell to clear the plates and utensils at the same time.

"Don't get ahead. We have to survive until Ourean first before setting out such an adventure with so little preparation. Let's get some rest, we'll set out for Ourean in the morning. We are all dead beat." Mirandria stood up, legs crammed from sitting too long.

The sun had long set over the horizon while the group chatted. Mizon and Grathal retired into their tent to discuss a travel route with Jukla while the girls took their first night watch. Feoren and Freinz went back to their tents to rest, completely forgotten their earlier dispute. Silence decended as the voices died down. Kirlika, exhausted from using her Essence today, fell asleep on Mirandria's lap. Mirandria smoothed back Kirlika's fur, watching her gentle face. Gazing up at the night skies, she made a wish at a shooting star before focusing back on her watch. The camp fire burnt low as the warm winds stir the ashes around the weak flames. The uneventful night passed quickly and before they knew it, the dawn began to break the next day.

Chapter 10: Old Familiar

2008-06-29T21:35:00.005+08:00

"...indeed, it is Jukla." Mizon stammered as the shape moved forward. A familiar face revealed under the dim lights through the many gaps. Kirlika rushed forward to hug the big belly. "How nostalgic...where have you been all these years?"

"Nowhere noisy," the gruff voice replied.

"The same old tree-man I've known since that summer. Ain't it a pleasure to meet my daughter's saviour when she was attacked ten years ago by bandits right on the same spot?" Mizon laughed freely.

"Yes, and adding my second help to you, you are in two debts of favour from me." Jukla smiled cunningly.

"Huh?"

"Grathal, he was over-exhausted and poisoned by the wild Preg plants growing around here. He is always in poor health, better watch where he is walking, especially an experienced forest trekker like him." Jukla said with much indifference, it was a tough work to decipher his thoughts or intentions with a leafy face hiding most of his expressions.

"So have you seen him? And where did he went?" Mizon pressed on urgently.

"He is under my care, lets settle these once and for all." Jukla flung Kirlika into the stream and lunged straight at Mizon.

"What? Why-" Caught off-guard, Mizon was thrown into the canopy of the trees. "Why...? We did you no wrong..."

"Really? Then why set fire to my home I have lived in?" Jukla roared with outrage. "Last time I failed to trap you using Kirlika, this time I'll destroy you in payment for what you have done!"

The trees began to move, binding Mizon tightly. Poison seeped into his skin, weakening him. Feeling his strength sapped away, his resistance reduced gradually. Below him, the stream exploded as Kirlika flew out of the water. Burning flames of the white Eternal Spirit encircled Kirlika. Brillance wings formed as Enva floated beside her, eyes as bright as the shining sun.

"So...it is THIS FIRE!" Jukla sent waves of vines at Kirlika, hoping to bind her as well.

Unfortunately, all the vines burnt before touching her. Acidic poison polluted the stream, killing the aquatic life forms in the waters. Using the death accumulating as the poison spread, Kirlika focused a piecing spell and directed it into Jukla, lancing him in light speed into a tree.

"Big MISTAKE!" Jukla began to meld into the tree, disappearing from Kirlika's line of sight. Her previous attack faded as if it didn't happened at all. Undaunted, Kirlika sent a spiritual blast into the tree's essence of life, causing it to age in shocking speed and die. Soon, the ground grew barren as the spell extended, feeding upon the even faster accumulation of death into life's energy for the spell. Jukla burst from a tree, haggard beyond the ability to stand. Defeated, he fell on the dead ground. "Please, spare my forest. As an Elemental Guardian, I'm doing all I can to help this world. If this forest die, so will I!"

Kirlika stopped the expanding spell and restored the damaged in an instant using Enva's force of reverse energy flow. "You are an Elemental Guardian?" Kirlika walked towards Jukla. Jukla nodded, looking ashamed.

"Look out!" Mizon landed before Kirlika and jumped back as Jukla unleashed a deadly blast of razor seeds into Kirlika. The attack missed just a hair breath away from Kirlika's face. "Why?"

"What why? You destroyed my forest, do you think I'll lay back and watch? It took years and effort to regrow this entire forest!" Jukla shouted with pure anger.

"Then we should cool you off!" Mirandria's Water Spiral caught Jukla by surprise and trapped him on the spot. "We found Grathal and managed to save him. We knew something was very wrong when the water changed colour and rushed here."

"Thank you, we owe you o-"

"TWO! For me saving your daughter and your Grathal!" Jukla interrupted Mizon.

"And you call that saving?" Mizon pointed at a weary looking Kirlika and a pale faced Grathal.

"I-I am- not..." Jukla hesitated.

"Listen Jukla, we are not the ones who set fire to th-your forest-"

"Then who?!"

"Listen! It's some irresponsible farmers who used white Klarntac-"

"What?!"

"Can you LISTEN?! This type of oil is purified from the depths of Hel, in the dead land of burning flames. It is the strongest type of burnable liquid found, said to contain magic against even the elements of water and ice-"

"WHAT?!" Mirandria and Freinz exclaimed.

"I SAID LISTEN! Can you understand my language?! So the reason why your forest was completely destroy-"

"was dued to that..."

"Sigh, seems like you guys don't understand the word 'listen'...but yes." Mizon sat down, tired of all the interruptions.

Jukla walked towards Mizon, "I am very sorry for what I had done. These years of misunderstanding, I'll die to repay your reputation!" Jukla took a sharpened weapon and prepared to stab his heart when Kirlika rushed forward to hug him again.

"Don't, I still like you the way you are. I don't care any misunderstanding, I only want friendship! I want life!" Tears flowed as the two hugged each other tightly.

"I'm sorry...I'm so sorry, so sorry...sorry..." Jukla buried his head behind Kirlika's furry back.

Composing himself, Jukla reintroduced, "I am apologetic about my actions today. I'm Jukla of the Entity Growth, Elemental Guardian of Nature. I'll be of eternal service to you, King Mizon." Bowing, Jukla addressed Mizon.

"Rise, I do not deserve this old friend. Let the bygones be bygones. Tomorrow will be a new beginning for us. Let us rest tonight and celebrate the joining of Jukla in our quest!" Mizon led the way back with Feoren and Grathal trailing behind, supported by the rest of the group. The evening came swift as they emerged from the forest. the stream was purified again as Mirandria used her Essence's Energy to clear the poison. Kirlika resurrected the many lives lost in the pollution of the stream, summoning their lost spirits from the Void.

The sun began to set as they went about preparing for dinner. Kirlika and Mirandria went down the stream to bath while the rest sat by the camp fire, sharing stories and experiences. Mizon explained their quest to Jukla while Jukla had some dread news waiting to announce to them after Kirlika and Mirandria returned.

"What news so dread that caused you to be so protective of your forest?" Mizon inquire.

"You will know soon..."

Chapter 9: Forest of Life

2008-06-28T12:31:00.007+08:00

The sun peeked over the horizon, casting long shadows across the land. Morning dew sparkled in anticipation of the waking dawn. The stars shied away as the moon set behind the glory of the sun's rays. Feoren took the moment to adsorb the Comic Energy from the sun, making his body glowed with orange shimmering lights. Freinz woke from the glow and found Feoren enjoying every bit of the dawn. Jealoused, he sneaked behind and shocked Feoren with a freezing attack.

"Hey!" Feoren, caught off-guard, fell to the grass and started a small fight with Freinz, each exchanging blasts of harmless energy.

Mizon and Grathal saw the scene and joined in the fun. Kirlika and Mirandria, roused from the noise, went out to see the four playing around with their Elements' Energies. "Even father and uncle can't resist the temptation to exhibit their rudimentary skills!"

"Rudimentary? I heard that- Ouch! Hey! Not fair, I wasn't looking!" Mizon blabbered away, nursing a light bruise on his arm from Freinz.

"Ha! You must have more concentration, my Lord!" Freinz replied in a mocking tone, earning a glare from Mizon and a revenge from Grathal who tripped him while he was teasing Mizon.

"It's your turn, ha ha-" Grathal didn't managed to complete his sentence before he was torched by Feoren's flame.

"Speaking of who as the-" Feoren neither finished his words before he was drenched.

"Take a bath to cool off war-heads, you are acting like children!" Mirandria laughed after giving Feoren a thorough wetting.

Sure enough, everyone decided to take a bath down the stream, playing water games while washing off the night's dust. Rainbows formed as sprays of water caught the sunlight. Butterflies fluttered by, enjoying the dawn as much as the noisy group.

Breakfast was prepared after their bath and Feoren started a new fire to dry them up. The morning passed quickly and within a blink of an eye, it was noon time. The hot sun dried their wet bodies up within minutes. Feoren resumed in his task of adsorbing the sun's energy to replenish his Essence.

Freinz went into deep meditation with Mirandria and Kirlika while Mizon took watch. Grathal decided to scout a path for easy trekking later. Feeling confident as Freinz had cast a reflect shield for him, he stepped into the dense forest. The leaves provided shade from the hot sun, cooling him instantly. Following the stream, Grathal found a small trodden path by the bank and pressed on. Every step he took seemed longer and longer until he decided to stop for a rest by a huge rock.

Looking around, he found out that the forest seemed more dense than usual with sinister looking poisonous plants covering the roots of the ancient trees. Fatigue caught him and his eyes began to droop, he fought his weariness but to no avail. Before he knew it, Grathal slumped to the moss-covered bank, lost in his dreams. A shape materialised from the trees and took him away. Casting a spell, it hid the tracks carefully.

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"What's taking him so long?" Mizon asked aloud.

"Grathal? He must have gotten lost in the forest..." Feoren began.

"No, he is an expert in forest trekking. the only thing which could impede him is magic and spell-traps." Mizon's worried face told the rest Feoren needed to know.

Turning to Freinz, Feoren asked, "Will your shield last long enough to keep him safe? It's been an hour..."

"Of course! Dun underestimate my spells-" Freinz paused, "but if it was something more subtle..."

Rushing forward and graping Freinz by his collar, Feoren shouted, "Which means he might still be attacked!"

"Hold it, Freinz have done what he could and Grathal volunteered it himself, don't start anything in rash, think before you act." Mizon stepped between them. "Kirlika and I will search for him. Stand down both of you! I'll see no spells or fists from each of you. Mirandria, you have my permission to 'cool' them off if they start to get too hot on their seats."

Ignoring Feoren and Freinz, Mizon and Kirlika set out into the forest. Kirlika cast Spiritual Wings to hasten their speed, hoping to catch up with Grathal if he was still moving. Enva floated ahead, scanning out Grathal's trail for them. They abruptly stopped as Enva slowed before a huge rock.

"Grathal's track follows the stream, but his trail ended before the rock. No spells or magic was used for Enva would have detect any. This place is full of growing energy. There is a degree of suffocation surrounding here. The stream ahead seems to disappear into that thick bush so Grathal would not have gone through there. If there have been any trails, they must have been expertly covered. There was some- no, no, not something. It's more like a...presence? Huh? It sensed familiar..." Kirlika assessed their situation quickly. "There!"

Pointing at an old enormous tree, Kirlika saw a shape moving for an instant before disappearing.

"I think I know who it was..." Mizon breathed in deeply. "It's him..."

Chapter 8: Secretive Night

2008-06-27T12:03:00.004+08:00

Kirlika found Feoren and Freinz chatting in their tent and entered.

"So you gave Mirandria a Spirit Guardian, didn't you?" Feoren peered at Kirlika.

"Ya...she wanted it badly...you see...yes, yes...I promised you guys...so...don't give me that look! Aww...I am fair! You guys suggested it at a later date, not me!" Kirlika felt panicky as Feoren and Freinz kept staring at her, her face began to turn red against her white fur.

"Fine, we'll forgive you if you help us with ours now..." Freinz suggested casually.

"Too easy for her..." Feoren began.

"No, stop it, look how guilty she is, give her a break." Freinz stood up as Kirlika remained frozen in place, pondering her next words.

"I...I'll do it now but don't tell my father or my uncle, they will kill me out of jealousy. My mum would strangle me alive for wasting my Essence." Kirlika avoided their eyes, still red from embarrassment.

"We aren't forcing you, we're just joking, right?" Freinz nudged Feoren and Feoren nodded sadly.

"It's ok, lets begin and end this quickly." Heedless of their words, Kirlika went out to the open and began the ritual again.

The stars seemed to multiply before her vision as the moon dimmed behind grey clouds. A gusty wind kept ruffling her fur as if suggesting not to continue. Ignoring the wind, she opened her arms wide and cast the Elemental Circle for the Portal of Void. She was surprised at how little energy she used every time she cast such major spells, deadly enough to kill a professional Elemental Guardian like Mirandria.

Too bad father isn't an Elemental Guardian, he is so skilled in using the magical energies from the residue of the power of the Elements...

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Mizon peered through a gap in his tent cover, watching Kirlika perform the ritual for Feoren and Freinz.

"Such is my talented girl, she needs no more than a drop-strength of her Essence to complete a spell as large as this. I would have died the moment the spell begins! No one's Essence is capable of holding the Portal of Void easily without exhausting every single energy." Mizon turned to Grathal as he sat up. If I could be an Elemental Guardian too...

"Indeed, never knew her powers until now. No worries for death for she can always revive us!" Grathal smiled. And don't think I don't know what you were thinking just now brother, learn to let go, if you can't have it, forget it.

"Now, now. Don't ever think of wasting my girl's Essence in your irresposibility!" Mizon glared. Like as if I'll!

"Joking brother, I love her as much as you do. She is like a treasure from heaven to me. I can't count the number of times I would have died from my hunting trips without her watching my back..." Grathal returned to sleep, giving a last glance at Mizon who was deep in his thoughts. My brother...

Mizon slept after the ritual finished. He was not assured of his daughter's safety until he saw the Portal of Void closing and both Feoren and Freinz returned safely from Void.

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"Say, I hope not to visit that place again, I almost break when Gifeva merged with my spirit and soul!" Feoren shuddered at the feeling.

"Me too..." Freinz staggered as Kirlika caught him, still snickering at the state they were in.

"Not funny you this fur-ball! It's really death-like in there!" Feoren noticed Kirlika mocking at him.

Unable to control her laughter any more, she fell on the soft grass laughing madly. Mizon, being jolted up from his sleep, opened the tent's flap and shouted, "Now would you give me peace after your adventures?"

"Oh! Father, I..." Kirlika blushed, ashamed that her secret was blown.

"Get back to sleep, we have a long day tomorrow. I knew all along, just don't exhaust yourself." Mizon smiled.

Feoren's Spirit Guardian, Givera, floated beside Freinz's Civa, scrutinising it like a strange object while Civa stared at Givera. Freinz noticed it and commented, "Seems like our difference in Elemental Essences does affect our Spirit Guardians as well."

"Lets keep our watch, I can't wait to share my life with my Givera." Feoren and Freinz headed to a rock and sat down. The wind settled to a comfortable consistant gale, sending wave-like ripples through the grassland before them while The forest rustled behind. Feeling cold, Feoren warmed himself with his Essence. Givera glided around him, constantly sharing experiences and stories. "Isn't she just like me? A talkative one!"

Well, it's because I inherited your personalities after the Sacrifice! Givera laughed and danced through the air, the wind seemed not to affect her at all. Civa followed after a moment of hesitation.

Kirlika retired to her tent, leaving Feoren and Freinz with their Spirit Guardians, only to find Mirandria and Riva hugging each other in their sleep. Mixed feelings swelled within her. Having a Spirit Guardian changed her friends and her life in ways beyond words. Settling to sleep, the night's song of owls and stirring leaves smoothed her into the deep dreamland.

Maybe, there is an Elemental Guardian in Void too...maybe...

Chapter 7: Kirlika's Secret

2008-06-26T22:03:00.003+08:00

"...I can summon a person's spirit or his Spirit Guardian!" Kirlika smiled in a dreamy way.

"Really? Can you summon mine?" Mirandria asked excitedly.

"A Sacrifice must be made in order to fulfill that..." Kirlika returned her attention on Mirandria.

"What Sacrifice is that?" Mirandria shifted closer.

"It's...something unpleasant. It requires the person to endure pain and suffering beyond hell..." Kirlika looked away from Mirandria, "which would cause the person to die and revive..."

"Do you mean- a trip from death?" Mirandria's voice quivered at the thought of dying.

"Something similar but more realistic. How about performing the Sacrifice now? Though Feoren and Freinz have decided to have theirs at a later time." Kirlika stood up and stretched.

"Is it okay to do it now?" Mirandria began to back away.

"It'll be alright. I am the Eternal Spirit remember? I'll prevent you from any harm other than death..." Kirlika gave a assuring smile.

"Stop scaring me!" Mirandria began to turn.

"But you have to die to find your Guardian Spirit, it doesn't come easily..." Kirlika clutched Mirandria's hand.

"Will it last long?" Mirandria still felt frightened.

"Only as long as you need to spend time with your newly acquainted Spirit Guardian!" Kirlika stood by Mirandria.

Mirandria finally accepted. Her desires overcame her fears. Kirlika began to weave an Elemental Circle before her, facing Mirandria while doing so. Ethereal lights danced and floated around Kirlika. Using a bit of her Essence's energy, she tapped into the myriad powers of the Cosmic Aura around her. The Elemental Circle enclosed Mirandria from head to toe. A portal yawned open before Mirandria, seemingly sucking her in. She began to feel her life force fading into the portal and hesitated.

"Don't stop, I'll guide you along the way through Enva, my Spirit Guardian will assist you as well." Kirlika gave a confident look and mentioned Mirandria towards the enlarging portal. "It's the Portal of Void, where Life and Death are one as Light and Darkness are none. Use your Elemental Essence to help you find your Spirit Guardian. Don't fear!"

Stepping through, Mirandria felt her body burned and froze while her spirit torn and sundered from her body. Just by the edge of the Portal of Void, Kirlika caught hold of Mirandria's cold body while her spirit glided into the Void. Ghosts of Mirandria's past followed her every step. Even though she seemed to be floating, she could feel an invisible path beneath her feet. Drawing her Elemental Essence, she began to glow.

So this is the feeling of death...

Yes, do you see a light before you? Follow it. Enva appeared beside Mirandria, pointing at a distant flickering silvery blue light. Hurry, your Essence is what keeps your spirit in the Void. Use up your Essence and you'll truly be dead, you won't be able to return to your body.

Mirandria approached the light as fast as her pace allowed. She could feel her spirit resisting the Void. It was a survival gamble against one of the strongest Elemental Essence found in the Cosmic itself. Nearing the light, she saw a small child with wings like Enva's curled up like a ball beneath the light. The light dissolved as she glided close. The child had translucent blue skin with sharp glittering ocean eyes.

Riva...I know your name now...my Spirit Guardian...

Tears flowed uncontrollably down Mirandria face as Riva roused to meet her. Enva spoke in a strange but alluring language to Riva. Riva nodded and touched Mirandria's face.

Mirandria, your bravery is shown, I'll serve you gladly. Now we must make the Sacrifice.

Enva suddenly disappeared, leaving Riva with Mirandria. Riva began to glow brightly, blinding Mirandria momentarily. Without warning, Riva penetrated into Mirandria's spirit. Pain beyond pain flared within Mirandria, shocking her to the core of her Essence. She felt her spirit began to dissolve and scream involuntarily as the pain reached new heights.

I am dying! Help- me...

Fear not Mirandria, have courage and faith in me. I'll save you from Void and return you to your body.

Riva's words seemed to calm her anxiety and pain, but she gave way to exhaustion and lost consciousness. When she woke up, she found herself staring at Kirlika.

"Am I dead?"

"I doubt so."

Indeed not.

The new voice startled Mirandria. Sitting up, she saw Riva floating gracefully before her. She started to cry as emotions took her. Such happiness and joy in Mirandria's mixed emotions caused Riva to shiver.

"You have to learn to control your emotions. You are now eternally linked in soul and spirit with Riva. She will stretch your Essence's capabilities beyond your imagination, do treasure what you have. It's earned through pure pain and happiness." Kirlika helped Mirandria up as they returned back to their campsite. "I'll call Feoren and Freinz up for their watch."

Stopping Kirlika, Mirandria said, "Thank you...I...am grateful..."

Staggering step by step, Mirandria and Kirlika head for their tent. Kirlika went to wake Feoren and Freinz after settling Mirandria with Riva and Enva.

They will have a long night ahead... Kirlika snickered at her fond memories when she first met Enva.

Chapter 6: Mirandria of the Dancing Water

2008-06-22T18:42:00.004+08:00

As Mizon and the band reached the middle of the bridge, the Karn River suddenly swelled and increased in flow.

"What-What is happening? The Karn River shouldn't flow so fast in this time of the year! It's Summer!" Freinz exclaimed as he attempted to calm his frightened horse.

"Hold! It's not natural, it's magic! Someone is controlling the waters!" Kirlika shouted as the raging waters began to hammer into the bridge. Their voices were drowned in the noise and soon the bridge began to crumple.

"Freinz, use a wide area spell and secure the bridge, we have to race to safety!" Grathal pointed Freinz to the other end of the shore.

"Great...fire is no use against water..." Feoren mumbled.

Freinz drew an elemental circle before him, summoning the frigid cold from the cosmic. Energy sparks crackle as he enlarged the spell towards the shore. The bridge heaved and broke behind them. It would not be long before they drown.

"Space around me, freeze upon my strength, be calmed by the sleeping cold of pure ice!"

The waters began to freeze up as the spell expanded in all direction. Freinz mentioned the rest towards the shore. Without hesitation, they raced forward. Yet the river seemed to know their intention and a wave slammed into them, sweeping everyone into the freezing waters.

"Help! Whoever you are, we are merely travellers, spare us from your blind rage!" Mizon pleaded in earnest.

A shape dissolved above them.

"Mizon...he who will draw all into his might. I'm Mirandria of the Dancing Water, forgive me as I mistook you as someone else." Mirandria flicked her hand and instantly, a wave threw Mizon and the band onto the shore.

"One who controls the element without any spells or words of control! You must be an Elemental Guardian!" Feoren jumped up in anticipation.

"And you are...?"

"Feoren of the Raging Fire and this is Freinz of the Calming Ice, whom you battled with awhile ago. You have met Mizon, King of Mistra Heldia, and his last brother Grathal, with Kirlika, Mizon's only daughter."

"I am humbled, to meet you in person is an honour beyond words." Mirandria bowed.

"Yes, indeed. Not forgetting a wet welcome too!" Mizon laughed unexpectedly.

"Father! You laughed! I'm glad..." Kirlika bimmed.

"A bit of laughter can ease tension at times. And who is this someone you mistook us with, Mirandria?"

"Bandits from the forest. I wasn't expecting them again after teaching them a wet and painful lesson!"

"We are heading towards the forest too. Might you come with us in this quest?" Mizon straightened up, brushing off the sand.

"It is an honour..."

"Warmth of flame, heat the space!" Feoren waved his hand across a newly cast elemental circle. Warm air began to dry their soaked clothing. "At least I'm of use for this..."

Kirlika returned with the cart containing their travelling amenities. Within minutes, they were dry and ready. After retrieving their frightened horses, they began towards the Haederan Forest with Mirandria tagging beside them, flowing like a shade.

"I can manipulate the essence of water in anyway I like, it comes with years of training." Mirandria and Kirlika chatted along. "So what is your element?"

"Eternal Spirit. Meet my Spirit Guardian, Enva." Enva materialised instantly, floating along like a leaf on a breeze.

"Intresting, how I wish for one..."

Merry conversations flowed between the band of travellers. The evening sky turned purple as the sun began to set beyond the horizon. Night seemed nearer with each passing minute. Voices reduced to small whisperings as they reached the forest edge. A green clearing offered a good campsite.

"We'll enter the forest in the day. The night presents unseen dangers." Mizon suggested. "We'll sleep for now. Let's take turn on watch."

Everyone busied themselves. Kirlika cooked a light meal while Mizon and Grathal head down a stream for water. Feoren, Freinz and Mirandria helped to build the tent. After Mizon and Grathal returned, Mirandria purified the water for drinking. Feoren ignited the camp fire while Freinz created a Shiva Shield to prevent magical attacks from possible ambushes. Fire light danced and sparkled as the group sat down to enjoy Kirlika's dishes.

"Traditional with a ting of country taste! I didn't know my daughter was such a talented cook, the genes of your mother indeed!" Mizon praised in delight.

"Indeed! I love it!" Grathal said in earnest.

"Such honour, we are very grateful for your meals." Feoren added in all dued respect.

"You're too polite on this occasion Feoren! But I have to admit, I hardly had a decent meal in my hometown..." Freinz took on a far-away look.

"My, my! I must thank Mirandria for such sweet water! Without her purification, the food wouldn't taste any better!" Kirlika turned to Mirandria. "And you have to accept that, won't you?"

"Of course, let's finish the food before it turns cold-" Mirandria was about to finish when she remembered Feoren, "but there's Feoren's fire to keep it warm throughout our conversation!"

"You don't have to mind me, I still need practice on my control else I'd burn the food! Ha ha ha!" Laughter echoed as the rest joined in.

Time seemed to still as the group sat gazing at the stars after their wonderful dinner. Comets shot across the black clear sky, adding fireworks to the blinking stars. The moon glowed bright amongst the myriad of shining displays. A breeze stirred the air as the temperature dropped.

"It's cold, let's turn in. We have a long day tommorrow." Mizon headed for his tent with Grathal, Feoren and Freinz following shortly. Mirandria took the first watch with Kirlika.

"Mirandria, I have a secret, do you want to know?" Kirlika asked.

"Huh? Care to tell?" Mirandria gave a quizzical look.

"It is..."

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Author's Note: From Chapter 6 onwards, all chapters will have little or no break scenes. Though it maybe lengthy, the plot will be rewarding. Do enjoy the details, that's what a good story tells, isn't it? Thank you for your support!

-Zaeious-

Chapter 5: Journey

2008-06-22T18:09:00.003+08:00

“Mizon? Is it wise to leave in such hurry?” Kimiko face told Mizon all he needed to know.

“Now is no hurry. Time is of essence, we have to search for the remaining Elemental Guardians or else-“

“Yes…I know, you have been repeating this for countless times. Just promise me to be safe and return in haste.” Kimiko stopped him.

“I promise.” Mizon assured her with a hug.

Kirlika peeped through the door, silently watching her parents. She had just recovered from the ordeal and her Spirit Guardian had regained consciousness. Freinz approached from behind, gently leading her away to a corner.

“Do be assured that we’ll look after you and your father. We are indebted to his grace. He will be a legend for eons to come. You’ll do him proud won’t you?”

Kirlika nodded and diverted her gaze towards her parents’ room.

“How’s your preparation coming along? Let’s get your stuff down by the cart; we’ll be setting off at the zenith hour.”

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Grathal stood by the castle’s gates. Wizen eyes trailed the activities around him. Stern as a bear, no one dared to slow down in the preparation for the journey ahead. Frox saw his expression and remarked, “Have a break, you’ll wear them out before the journey even begins!”

“This is important, not some hiking trip! I need to ensure sufficient amenities are prepared. We won’t know where the next town is or where we are heading to! I’ll give them a take-five at most.” Grathal began to walk towards the castle.

“Hard on the mouth, soft in the heart…”

“Did you say something?” Grathal glanced back.

“Nothing!” Smiling innocently, Frox hurried away.

“That little fox! Well, he has his own ways…”

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“Guards! Keep Queen Kimiko safe until I return. Open the gates, we'll depart shortly.” Mizon's voice echoed about the castle inner walls.

All preparation had been completed. Mizon, Grathal, Kirlika, Feoren and Freinz got on their horses as Kimiko gazed from the balcony. Waving their final farewells, the blaring horn signaled their departure. The blue skies promised a good start with the eastern wind blowing steadily on their backs. Trees swayed in harmony to the rythmn of the gusts. The Karn River meandered before Mizon's castle.

“We'll head for Haederan Forest, it is rumoured that the forest itself holds great regenerating energy. Once the forest was burned to the ground by some irresponsible farmers but it grew back within a year. There we might find some pleasant surprises, hopefully..." Grathal looked back at Mizon as they cross a long bridge over the Karn River.

"Anything worth the effort is a must, you are much familiar with the wilds, lead on brother." Mizon returned to gaze at the horizon before them. The once cheerful face was replaced with uncertainty and worry.

"Is anything of the matter? Your face told as much..." Feoren asked.

"Nothing of concern currently, I'm just thinking about what the Ancient had said. Will we ever find all of the Elemental Guardians?" Mizon frowned at the thought.

"Father, do have faith, I was revived, wasn't I?" Kirlika ventured.

"Yes, yes...I should stop worrying about the future now." Mizon managed a smile. The atmospere lightened considerably as they continued across the Karn River.

Chapter 4: Hope Beyond

2008-06-22T15:21:00.006+08:00

The shadow slide along the shadows as it stalked the Elementalist. It knew its purpose in coming to this world but the Elementalist proved to be a hindrance. The Elementalist must be removed…

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The Elementalist paused in mid-stride…

Someone is following me…

“Show yourself!”

…

“Eat this!” Concentrating a negative impulsive ball of energy, the Elementalist struck at the rocks. Chips of stone flew at him.

Grathrayra…hizzratrasrakra… (Sharpen encircle…wind carry…)

The stones sharpened into deadly missiles and whirled around the Elementalist, cutting him everywhere.

Crazraruuz! (Penetration imminent!)

“No…!”

Silvery blue blood burst from many wounds as the missiles punctured his body…

“Ma-as-ter- I- have fa-iled-…Urgh!”

Fraxradragra…hringra…(Night ascend…disappear…)

The shadow melted away into the night as the moon peered from the gathering clouds. Nothing remained where the Elementalist died except dried blood…

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Three days later, Mizon found the Elementalist’s traces and reached the scene where he died.

“Dear brother…had you listened to me…” Kneeling down, Mizon offered his final prayer before Grathal hurried to help him up.

“He died a fool, you need not give him any prayers…and he has long forgotten you as his beloved brother…”

“Old Master Balderas will not wish to see us at each other’s throats…”

“Indeed, we were close brothers before…before he took that path-“

“No more, that was the past.”

A strong wind began to blow across the path on which they stood. The shadow materialized before their eyes, slowly taking form and substance. Serpent eyes flared as scarlet wings unfolded.

I have come to rid the evil which will soon surface; he was but a hindrance in my quest to gather the Elemental Guardians. I see that Feoren of the Raging Flame and Freizn of the Calming Ice are here. I am from another world and I am an Ancient. I do not wish to reveal my name for my enemies are near.I am the one who saved your daughter, Mizon, and that I will return her essence of power in due time. Heed well that you as the last line of the Arrizandrian, have to gather the remaining Elementalists in this world before the next full moon. I will return then with one of my last kin…

Stunned, the Arrizandrian brothers stood with their mouths gaping as the Ancient disappeared into the wind. The sun began to set and shadows dragged long behind their weary backs.

It would be a new beginning and a new mystery in an adventure beyond their wildest dreams.

Far into the night, the stars blinked in anticipation. What signs would be given for such absurd quest? How many Elemental Guardians would there be? Would the quest ever end? What great evil awaited them? Who were the Ancient and its kin?

Questions raged within the minds of the Arrizandrian brothers. Sooner or later their questions would be answered, but for now, they have to recover quickly for the pressing quest.

Chapter 3: Death & Resurrection

2008-06-21T23:28:00.003+08:00

Mizon paced his great hall over and over again. His precious daughter was late and everyone attending the Gathering had arrived. Kimiko stood anxiously behind him, a worried look from Mizon told her everything.

She walked over to him. “Shall we cast the Prying Mirror?” Mizon nodded and sighed. What will they see? Will they see her hurrying towards the castle or…?

“Now, stop your negative train of thoughts, I have enough worries at hand!”

Upon reaching their private room, they began to prepare the spell. When the spell was cast upon a bowl of crystalline water, what the scene revealed caused Kimiko to faint.

Standing above Kirlika was the evil Elementalist, holding to her essence of power.

“No…!”

Hahaha…I have finally obtained the Eternal Spirit! Now see how I’ll finish her!

Mizon could only watch uselessly as he took out a sword and aimed for Kirlika’s heart. Bright red blood gushed from the fatal wound. Kirlika lay motionless as her Guardian Spirit dissipated into the thin air.

Mizon cried as the spell ended. Is this the end?

The Elementalist gave Kirlika a last look before disappearing into the descending night.

A shadow emerged from the wall and bend over Kirlika. Waving its hand above her, the shadow extracted the sword and healed her wounds. Summoning Kirlika’s soul, it resurrected her, returning Enva from the Spiritual Realm. Seeing that Kirlika lived, it resumed its chase against the Elementalist.

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When Mizon reached the cave with all his acquintances, he was utterly surprised to see Kirlika alive. Without delay, he brought her and her Guardian Spirit home.
As he arrived at his castle, he received another surprise.

“Grathal, my brother, where have you been?”

“All ends of the world, now what is going on with you bringing all your people out? Are you off for hunting?”

“No, I will feed you the details after the Gathering.”

Heavy footsteps echoed about the corridors as they proceeded toward the great Hall. Feoren, the Elemental Guardian of Fire, spoke first. “Regarding today’s incident, we decided to…”

“Halt! The King enters!” One of the attendants announced.

Mizon acknowledged Feoren upon seeing him. “…bring about the discussion of the…” Feoren continued after a nod.

Grathal, help me break the news before I begin…

As you wish brother.

“…thank you.” Grathal bowed to Feoren before beginning his speech as Feoren ended his.

“Thank you again for attending the annual Gathering. As we know, he has returned but nobody knows where he has fled. The news is terrible but there are hopes to—”

“Grathal, may I?”

“Yes, please…”

“He has struck earlier than we expected. He has summoned an evil storm against my castle an hour ago and killed my beloved daughter consecutively. Yet do not worry for my daughter was revived and is alive. I have fought him but he will return. Now that he has my daughter’s essence of power, he will use it to destroy us. I beseech you to stand up against him, I plead you!” Mizon knelt in submission to the recent burdens and the whole court roused to stop him.

“Mizon, please stand, we do not deserve this, we will help as you requested for he threatens us all.” Freinz, the Elemental Guardian of Ice, begged in earnest as Grathal rushed forward to help Mizon up.

“Thank you all, I am in your debts…”

“NO, WE PLEDGE LOYALTY TO THE HOUSE OF ARRIZANDRIAN!” Tears flowed from Mizon eyes as the hall echoed in unison with everyone’s voices.

“The day of unity has come much earlier but it is sooner the better; we cannot delay this matter anymore. Feoren and I will summon the other Elemental Guardians immediately and as soon as they arrived, we will hold another conference regarding the pursuit of him!” Freinz held his stance as he watched Mizon recovered himself.

“Indeed, I apologise for my weakness, it has been a tiring day. Amphati, get your girls to prepare the guest rooms for everyone. Please rest in my humble place before further decisions would be made, the night is at nigh. And Feoren, could you get Freinz too?” Mizon bowed before retreating into his quarters with Feoren and Freinz following up briefly.

Chapter 2: Spirit's Cry

2008-06-21T23:08:00.006+08:00

Kirlika!

“Uh…I must have…oh…you—”

Kirlika?

“I…can still…go on…have you…?

Yes, yes. Can you crawl? Darn it, if only I can possess your body to give you more strength!

“Don’t even…think of that! You…know how…dangerous that is! What if I absorb…your spirit?”

Fine, conserve your remaining energy to move rather than scolding me.

Painfully, Kirlika struggled behind her Guardian Spirit. Her body began to warm a little as she forced her numbed feet to move.

After much crawling, they reached a small cave sheltered behind some huge rocks. The rocks provided a natural shield against the fierce blizzard. Within the cave, the air is much warmer and dry. Colour began to return to Kirlika’s pale face. “Aa…much better! I think I will be able to go on after an hour’s rest and hopefully, the blizzard will subside by the time we leave.”

Urm…Kirlika, I have a bad news. I don’t think this storm will stop at all…

“What do you mean?”

This blizzard is magic, conjured by a powerful Elementalist. I can sense him but cannot locate him. Do you think it is Him?

“Yes, most likely. Then we are doomed. I am too weak to stop this blizzard, let alone fight him.”

Despair settled into the depths of Kirlika’s heart. No one could outmatch an Elementalist with such a weaken body. Power began to seep away from her, it would be soon before she dies from exhaustion.

Muahahaha…Mizon himself will be dead soon, why do you still serve him? He is a weakling! Why do you still reject me? Why?

“He is here!”

Yes, here I AM!
Before Kirlika, the Elementalist materialised. The cave instantly grew colder. Enva quickly cast a Reflect Shield between him and Kirlika.

You will not harm her!

“I will not bow to you twisted demon! Be gone or be done with me, I will bear no longer of your presence!”

Words! I will now subvert you into my control!

The shield shattered upon his touch as he reached forward to grip onto Kirlika’s neck. His sinister laughter echoed about the cave.

Die you shall or be my eternal slave!

“Never! Enva, use Spirit Blaze!”

Ethereal Fire lanced through the Elementalist, searing his hand. “Strength of Fire and Might of Light, shine forth now to destroy!” Energy struck him full force into the wall, stunning him temporary.

Your weak attacks will not hurt me, now you shall die!

His hands began to penetrate Kirlika’s chest, excruciating pain caused her to cry out. Enva clutched his fragile body as spiritual pain force him to the ground.
I will now gain control of your soul! Be enslaved!

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An hour passed while Frox and Grathal made their final preparation before setting off for the Gathering. Dark Clouds began to gather as they hopped onto their horses. Soon, snow drifted down in an endless blanket of white. “Something’s wrong. This was supposed to be summer, not winter!” Frox exclaimed.

“No, but this looks like magic at work…”

Without a second glance, they raced towards the source of the storm. By the time they reached Mizon’s castle, the storm had subsided.

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Kirlika began to lose consciousness, her willpower began to weaken. Death approached silently as the hands groping their way into her heart unleashed another wave of pain. Help seemed impossible and exhaustion caused her to lose focus. A distance away, her Guardian Spirit lay unmoving.

The Elementalist finally reached her heart and began to subvert her. Dark energy pulsed from his skeletal hands into Kirlika’s heart.

Soon…soon I will have the greatest power in the entire world!

Chapter 1: Spirit's Will

2008-06-21T22:54:00.005+08:00

The wind slammed cruelly into Kirlika’s face as she struggled against it. Her tail drooped to the ground, she felt tired. Her furry face showed exhaustion, the once sparkling blue eyes now dimmed. The blizzard grew stronger every second, hammering her until she could go no further. “Go, Enva, I don’t think I could go any further…”

Her Spirit Guardian floated beside her, a look of hopelessness crossed his translucent face. Even though he was not affected by the natural elements, he felt the pain from his Mortal Sacrifice, the very link between the Sacrifice and the Guardian Spirit. Smalls hand reached out, hoping to be of help. "Your body...is too small to be of any help..."

I will help you seek a safe haven first…wait here by the crevice. Enva drifted away, unhindered by the ferocious winds. Even though Spirit Guardians are strong, their appearances are but child like. Any physical strength is beyond their capabilities.

Am I going to die here? Will I manage this blizzard and be on time for the Gathering? Watching her Spirit Guardian drifted into the distance, her vision began to blur, before she knew it, she fell into unconsciousness. Her white snowy fur blended into the surroundings, only her red scraf indicated where she was. Even the tough fur of the Silver fox, borned from the winterlands, could not survive long in such conditions.

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Kimiko Arrizandrian of the Silver Fox stood on her balcony, her silvery white fur greyed with anxiety and watching the sky darkened before her eyes. “Darn, a magic storm!” She turned in time to see Mizon entering the room. “He has begun, hurry! We won’t have much time left!”

“Patience…” Mizon Arrizandrian clapped his grey hands together, weaving the Elemental Circle before himself. Negative forces clashed as he began to absorb energy from his surroundings. Static energy caused his fur to stand.

“Mizon… I think—” Lightening struck, neatly cutting a tree into two, scaring Kimiko.

“Elements of Wind and Water, combine!” Heedless of the negative forces, Mizon pressed on.

“Mizon, I really—”

“Power of Nature, unleash!” Cutting Kimiko short, Mizon increased his focus.

Wind began to increase in its strength; the windows creaked with its impact. Loose bricks fell from the walls, smashing into smithereens on the ground below. The Elemental Circle expanded; the energy concentrated in the centre began to glow bright.

“Element of Darkness and Light, encase! Dissipate the storm!” Mizon hands glowed pale blue, energy burst forth from the Element Circle, colliding in an explosion with the gathering dark clouds. Spell left sparkling residue of magic on Mizon's grey fur, lighting him eerily.

A shock wave was released from the collision, shattering the windows and doors. A number of trees were uprooted from the force.

“Ahh—” A mental energy ripped across Mizon’s mind.

Fools… you think you can stop me, face it, I shall conquer your pathetic world soon!

“It was him, right?” Kimiko clenched her furry hands. “I will personally tear his head off, if only my claws were sharp enough!”

“I am alright and there is no need to waste our words on him, such as a betrayer can be!”

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

“Huh?”

“What’s the matter?” Frox of the Forest Wolf stared at Grathal with a worried expression on her brown face.

“Nothing, I felt a negative force awhile ago, and it was from Kimiko’s castle…”

“So you want to pay her a visit then? Anyway, you are still recovering from the previous brutal training…”

“Frox… I am alright! Come on, we shall not waste time talking about this now, lets set off immediately, I have an ominous feeling…” Grathal trailed off.

“Fine, fine… you are always so—” Bang! “Well, you don’t have to be so rude as to slam the door into my face!” Nursing her bruised nose, she shouted after Grathal.

Prologue

2008-06-21T22:44:00.003+08:00

Waves broke the shoreline as the distant sun set below the horizon. The frigid wind hinted a storm approaching with the night. With glittering eyes, it watched the last visage of the sun disappeared into the sea. The blue sky tuned itself into purple as the lingering rays of the sun faded. Impatient stars began their winks among gathering grey clouds. Claws scratched on the soft white sand, wings rustled before the gusts. It roused to meet the storm as dark clouds snuffed out the stars. The wind picked up, blowing waves upon waves, stirring the ancient forest behind. A low howling began and rain fell. Lightning flashed, momentarily brightening up the coast. The thunder scared away birds and animals living in the forest, many seek refuge in the thick foliage of bushes and tall grasses.

-Finally...-

Serpent eyes fixed on the eye of the storm as a shape materialized quickly from it. Wings formed as the shape neared the coast. One of its kin has survived the arduous journey across the void.

-Brother!-

-Ah! Razra, you have arrived unscathed. Who followed your flight?-

-Alas I am strong enough to brave the void but others have perished…-

-Had it not been for the petty war between the Ancients, our race would have lived in peace for many years to come.-

-Yet, the credit is yours, without your sacrifice, I might have died along with the rest of our kin.-

-Razra, I can no longer protect you, I have no more strength left from that sacrifice, you will have to seek out a haven for yourself.-

-No! My life is yours. We must live or die as one. Zandorze, you are my last family, I cannot abandon you.-

-How fare our home?-

-Destroyed, rendered beyond hope. Your curse has done its work. The Ancients have ceased, we are the last.-

-Then we shall make this place our home and protect it from similar disaster!-

-Yes and that we shall.-

Silence ensued as the storm dispersed. The wind reduced to small gusts and night creatures of the forest woke to hunt and savage for food. The stars emerged again to tease the new habitants to the new born world…

Opening Ceremony

2008-01-19T23:25:00.000+08:00

Welcome to the World of Zaeious! This is an online story which, hopefully on time, would be updated every two weeks.

The first chapter will be published this coming late February 2008, be sure to catch the prologue!

Please acknoledge upon use, thank you. ;-)