《Origins of Void.》


 Chapter One - In Deaths Embrace

    The kingdom of Avalon, A large castle would sit perched atop a massive mountain placed in the centre of this seemingly endless kingdom, surrounded by a substantial stretch of earthen form, covered in a blanket of light green grass, exotic plants would lay scattered throughout the plane as the night sky illuminated with stars, dancing across the horizon.


    In the sky sat two moons, dancing over this unfamiliar plane, the wind howled their unholy sermons as thick, cumulonimbus clouds would gather atop the kingdom, slowly forming and expanding as they crawled across the dim lit skies. Darkness shrouded the skies as the moons ominous hue pierced through the darkening clouds of Ragnarok, horrendous cries of the wind would lacerate their gloomy fingers across the calm atmosphere, Pedals glide and encompass the terrain, as a collective sphere, the eye of the storm: A graceful scene for the events to come.


    Mountainous ranges would encircle the area like a coliseum, only to shroud the view of the endless sea of blue beyond their reach. The lush forest would surround the massive castle, of which held a village beyond the stone walls. A large stone door would act as the gateway into the kingdoms domain. Beyond the large walls, small homes and town houses would lay scattered through the province, roads and walkways carved into the ground to form the kingdoms interior.


    The kingdom would be divided into three parts, the outer area would be comprised of small villages and homes, of which were populated by countless individuals. The second domain would consist of large buildings, formed from white stone which would deed as the city of the kingdom. Within the third region, the castle would six betwixt a large plane of grass that would divide itself from the rest of the kingdom; the large bastion would tower over the other buildings, resting on the face of a mountain.


    The Victorian style castle would be lined with statues of angels and knights perched atop the large outer walls, within the castles domain, a substantial expanse of earthen mass covered in a thick layer of grass would construct the garden of this holey province. The large courtyard that surrounded the castle would lay arrayed in a bed of exotic plant life.


    Within one of the chambers, slept a young female, ever so quietly she laid hunched over a large queen sized bed. The room was enormous, two large doors would act as the gateway into his chamber, of which would be lined with crimson red walls etched with golden colorations declining down the walls to the floors. Two small bedside cabinets would sit at each side of the bed, a small lamp sitting atop each one. The large bed would sit betwixt the large room; a queen sized bed decorated with ebony cloth, blankets hung over the bed as four large pillows would sit against the headboard, carved from the finest wood it would endow the markings of an angel. Behind the bed, a large bay window would rest within the wall, looking out upon the massive courtyard below, of which exotic plants would flourish along the light green grass. Two blood red curtains would hang on each side of the windows, allowing the moons gloomy manner gaze in through the frames.


    The female slept within her bed, the ebony sheets covering her slender form, her head resting against a large pillow, of which was lined with red trimmings lining its hem. Her snowy white hair cascaded upon the surface of the fabric, a slight smile etched across her lips as she opened her eyes, looking up at the ceiling. The blankets rustled ever so gently as the female sat up in her bed, her gleaming purple eyes observing the large room. Slender fingertips caressed the rosy cheeks of the female as she let out a soft sigh, yawning gently as she looks to the large wooden doors.


    The young female adorn in a simple white garment, one of which wrapped around her petite frame, its hems sitting at her ankles, the soft fabric covering her shoulders, leaving her slender arms bare. Her long, elegant hair would stop midway on her back, gracefully covering her shoulders and curve-less chest. Lowering her hand as she looked around the room once more, her pale lips parting as she spoke. Her voice, soft and gentle, almost harmonic, like that of an innocent child.


    ¡°It¡¯s today¡­¡±


    Sighing softly she would proceed to lift up the covers, slowly sliding out of the bed her bare feet touching the soft, sheep skin rug that covered the floor. Slowly, she walked to the large window, looking out and beyond to the courtyard below. The sun, slowly rising in the wake of a new day, illuminating the stretch of cerulean ocean they called the ¡®sky¡¯. Only a few clouds crawled across its azure surface. The suns vivid tone shining in through the curtains, tenderly touching the face of the young maiden. The loving caress of the suns warmth would dance across her rosy cheeks as a placid smile imprinted itself on her face.


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    It was the sound of a gentle knock on the wooden doors that would break the parched silence; the young female would turn to face the doors as they opened. At the door stood another female, dressed in a maid¡¯s uniform. The black dress would firmly grasp against her curvy body. Her long, ebony hair, tied up ever so immaculately, her grassy green eyes would observe the room, a gentle smile impressed across her rosy lips as she entered the chamber. Willowy finger tips clutched the hems of her graceful dress that seemingly draped over her formal shoes. With a gentle bow the female would lower her head in her young mistress¡¯s presence, her hands gently resting on her chest as she spoke, slowly raising her head to look at the young princess that stood before her.


    ¡°Mistress Elaine, your breakfast is ready¡­¡±


    ¡°I see¡­I suppose I should get changed then¡± The one the maid referred to as Elaine spoke softly as she looked at the maid, a gentle smile endowed on her face.


    ¡°Very well, I will give you your privacy¡­¡± With that said, the maid bowed yet again as she slowly left the room, closing the door gently.


    A gentle sigh would escape Elaine¡¯s lips as she looked back at the window, her arms wrapped around a small stuffed animal as she held it against her chest. A hint of sorrow would paint over her lustrous purple optics, once full of joy and happiness, now tainted with the decay of grief. ¡°He is ok¡­He has to be¡­¡±


    A few hours had passed; the young female strode down the halls of the castle, adorn in an elegant dress wistfully wrapped around her small frame, the long, red dress would hang over her formal shoes as the softly tread upon the wooden floors. Long, snowy strands would be tied up ever so perfectly, revealing her soft, pale skin. Red lipstick would lay painted across her lips as they curve into a gentle smile, her rosy cheeks would complement her dress. Her deep purple eyes would look around the halls as her slender fingertips gripped the hems of her dress delicately.


    Now coming to a set of large wooden doors the young princess would look upon its features, taking a deep breath as she closed her eyes, straightening up her slouched posture as the doors open. Her cherry red lips, parted and her frail voice escaped her vocals. A gasp of pure bewilderment stained the calm, fresh, air with her adolescent tune as she observed the room that laid within.


    ¡°H¡­Hello?¡± Elaine spoke softly as she peered through the doors, looking into the large room of which the king laid within.


    There he laid, the king of the land now bedridden with a plague so fowl, that god himself could not save him from damnation. The man¡¯s once long, white beard now tainted with blood. His frail fingers running down the length of the tangled beard as Elaine approaches him, a gentle smile on his face as he spoke.


    ¡°Elaine¡­You came¡­I¡¯m glad¡­¡± The male spoke softly as Elaine approached his bed, his slender fingers caressing her rosy cheeks as he looks into her eyes. ¡°You, my beloved daughter¡­The heir to the throne¡­I know you are still young, but I don¡¯t have much time left¡­You must take my place¡­As ruler¡­.¡±


    ¡°Father¡­¡± Elaine spoke as she placed her hand on his, smiling gently as she looked at her father, a man that once stood strong and lead their kingdom, now on the verge of death. She closed her eyes, a single tear running down her cheek as the man¡¯s hand fell to the bed, limp and lifeless, a gentle smile on his face as his final breath escapes his pale lips.


    ¡°Don¡¯t leave me alone...Please...I¡¯m not ready¡­Why can¡¯t Areyth take the throne?...She is much older than I am¡­And knows what she is doing¡­¡±

 Chapter Two - The Contract

    Voracious winds would lacerate their melancholy extremities across the tranquil atmosphere, a pair of eyes open to a blinding light, ears to the wind howling betwixt coarse terrain. The sanguine odour of blood would taint the once green grass of the land. The sun writhing across the horizon, leaving its wake in shades of red and gold, a vast expanse enveloping the skies above the seemingly ceaseless stretch of earthen mass. Dismantled corpses of fallen warriors would lay scattered across the structure, the shattered ruins of armour and weapons would hang over the landscape.


    War had ravaged this land, like a stigma on the face of the earth. The malevolent stench of death would swiftly crawl across the topography, gently brushed along by the violent gales. Placid, elusive footsteps would agitate the blood that covered this horrendous abnormality of hellion with each footstep, corpulent squelches resolving beneath robust feet as they tread upon this stretch of tainted pasture.


    A pair of eyes would gaze upon the sinister plane of decay, the marching and manifesting darkness would shroud the divergent hue of the scorned sun. Vermillion optics, the eyes of a man that were once golden with the onset of life, now tainted with an evil so fowl, that Satan itself would reject its breath. An ebony cloche would caress the form of the large figure as it paced upon the ground ever so gently. The black cloche would oscillate in the chilling breeze that beckoned it forth, chanting its foreboding song.


    ¡°The voices in my head¡­They screech like lives to my audition¡­¡±


    A single whisper would drift throughout the terrain, a mere conjecture that would cut through the silence like a knife, cutting its way through the illusion of clarity, it rests within the envelope of a false sanctuary. Out of the darkness, out of the declining currents that constantly shredded through the blackness of the skies, now shrouded by darkness ever so fowl, it draws nigh.


    A thick haze of quickly coagulating fog would soon stain the surface of this once sanctified plane, now vilified with the livid nightmare through the world of the living, one now tainted with the onset of Ragnarok, a realm deprived of life. The eerie fog would blanket the stretch of hellish land, cursed it was, for no sentiment of serenity would perch itself atop this backdrop of inky gloom.


    Disturbed by a thin ringing--a shriek carried over the wind for a great distance. With the cry of this far-off beast comes widespread conflagration, igniting the scarce organic life within its reach. A curious notion would guide the head of the hooded figure, looking in the direction of which the sanguine voice echoed, accompanied by a cloaked equestrian riding a dark, alar creature of which draws nigh.


    Thus, it breathes darkness into the earth, and from the earth does more darkness rise. Swarming, convulsing... compulsory projection. They sink within the earth and diffuse into shadows. Growing ever larger as the sun bears down from above, amassing and encircling, their eyes an aureate virus, descending upon those who obtrude their domain.


    Finally the beast descends, the hooded being dismounts as it looks upon the cloaked figure standing before it. Within the void of its eye sockets, a glow from deep inside would extrude a purple mist. Dark auras would dance around this figure like flames to a candle, gentle lacerating around its armoured form as it looks upon the one whom entered its territory, it then spoke.


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    ¡°Who dares set foot on my domain, only those who dare to tread upon this soil wish to meet their foul end¡­¡±


    A single notion guided the cloaked figures hand, pulling off the hood to reveal its face. The man looked upon the dark figure, not a single hint of emotion ran across his pale lips. His vermillion eyes gazing at the large sword of which it held within its metal claw-like hands. The males golden hair would rustle gently in the breeze, indolently hanging over his eyes as he spoke in a subtle, yet gentle tone. The male looked only the age of seventeen, a youthful man, one that had rose through the ranks of the Royal Guard at such a young age, and now is widely known across the kingdom.


    ¡°I am Sir Aeacus, the holy knight of Avalon, and who may you be?¡±


    ¡°You wish to know my name?...I am the monarch of the forsaken kingdom, the god of Nazg?l¡¯s¡­I am Susano¡¯O¡± The being replied, its voice bloodcurdling, sadistic.


    ¡°Were you the one who cut these men down? Were you the one who ended their lives?¡± Aeacus replied, slowly moving his other hand from his cloche to reveal a golden blade from within.


    ¡°Indeed I was, they foolishly treaded upon my land, I merely guided them to their demise, they came in search for eternal life...Only those whom hold a pure heart may be blessed with the gift of eternal life¡­But do you truly seek such a trivial thing? You will only bring yourself to ruin¡± The one that was referred to as Susano¡¯O responded.


    ¡°It is not I who searches for immortality¡­The king has fallen violently ill, and thus he searches for eternal life, so that his reign shall never end¡­I shall be the one who delivers it to him¡± Aeacus spoke softly as he slowly drew his golden blade, the cloche that covered him would soon slip off his form, revealing his immaculate suit of armour, raising his blade at the being before him as it extrudes a blinding light.


    ¡°Even if I have to slay you to obtain it, I shall¡±


    A loud bellow would echo across the terrain as the dark figure would raise its blade as well, a sadistic laugh would howl through the plane, slowly pointing the barbed blade at the holy knight the being adorn in ebony armour would speak yet again. ¡°You wish to slay me? How comical, if you so wish to gain immortality, I shall give it to you. But at a price¡±


    ¡°In exchange for my power, you will sign your life to me, and I shall grant you immortality¡­You, a hero of light looks passed the darkness within, yet you seek perfection¡­To obtain such a thing you must first find true balance, without darkness, you will never achieve you goals¡­I will become that darkness¡­¡±


    Raising an eyebrow Aeacus would look at the dark being, wondering why it would so easily grant him such an impossible wish. ¡°You give me power in exchange for my life? No¡­I will not make a deal with the devil, I know the consequences.¡±


    ¡°You don¡¯t have a choice now¡­I have made up my mind¡± The being spoke, slowly dismantling into thin air, only to appear before Aeacus, its sword driven through his chest as its dark auras begin to flow into him, tainting the once pure heart into a pit of chaos. And thus, Aeacus fell into a deep slumber.


    ¡°Now I am here, my waltz of decaying divesting your mortal body, my hands clasping your life and absorbing your pulse¡±

 Chapter Three - The Return

    Five long years had passed since the king had met his untimely demise; the kingdom was thrown into disarray, with the thought of Princess Elaine taking the throne. The royal council had taken the responsibility of governing the kingdom until the young maiden was ready to take the throne. It was absurd, never before had a woman taken the throne of Avalon, in a long line of royalty only the first born son had taken that place, as ruler.


    A gentle sigh escapes Elaine¡¯s lips as she look out the large window, her slender fingertips tracing the hems of her dress ever so gently. The once cheerful youth, now stricken with grief, forever written across her face. A gentle smile etched itself across her lips as she spoke.


    ¡°Areyth¡­Why was I chosen to take the throne?...And not you?...¡± She spoke gently as she looked up at the female standing behind her. The one she referred to as Areyth would tie her snowy white hair up ever so immaculately, placing her hand on Elaine¡¯s shoulder as she spoke.


    ¡°I would not know¡­It was fathers decision¡­His last request was for you to take the throne¡­And besides, a holy knight such as myself could never take the throne, even if I am a member of the royal family¡­¡± Areyth replied in a gentle tone, a smile across her rosy lips.


    ¡°I see¡­Why did you become a Holy Knight in the first place?¡± Elaine responded as she looked up at the female, placing her hand on Areyth¡¯s.


    ¡°I joined the Royal Guard and became a Holy Knight because I knew this day would come¡­I had to get stronger to protect you, my dear sister Elaine¡± Areyth spoke softly as she placed her hand on Elaine¡¯s cheek, her slender fingertips running across her soft skin. ¡°You have such beautiful hair¡­And eyes¡­You look so much like mother did¡­¡±


    ¡°What was mother like?...¡± Elaine replied as she felt a streak of crimson danced upon her features, staining her pale flesh with non-other than a blushed expression.


    ¡°Mother was¡­So kind and gentle, She always put others first¡­In fact, she is allot like you, Elaine¡± Areyth spoke kindly as she took her hand away from Elaine¡¯s cheek. Placing her hand against her curved chest. Areyth wore a traditional snow white Kimono, with black markings etched into the upper left shoulder of the gown. Her jet black hair hung down to her lower back, gently dangling over her bust. Her dark blue eyes gazed upon her youthful sister, placing her hand on Elaine¡¯s shoulder yet again.


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    ¡°If only he were here¡­He would be more suited to take the throne, he is my betrothed after all¡­¡± Elaine sighed softly as she looked back out the window, the calm breeze caressing her soft skin as she closed her eyes.


    ¡°It¡¯s been two years¡­There hasn¡¯t been any sings of them returning¡­We can only hope for his safety¡± Areyth spoke gently. ¡°Besides, you needn¡¯t dwell on that, it is your birthday tomorrow after all¡±


    A lurid knock would echo throughout the room, the large doors would slowly open to reveal a tall figure standing betwixt the doorway. Embellished in a suit of golden armour, lined with runic markings declining down his plenty left side, engraved on his chest plate, a Celtic cross would lay, entangled in vine like scriptures. The tall male would gaze upon the two as he enters the room, his long, wavy golden hair would stem down to his shoulders, his face baring a rather serious look as his golden eyes look at Elaine as he spoke.


    ¡°Your highness¡­I have come baring news, Sir Aeacus has returned, although¡­His entire squadron was wiped out, leaving only him to coming back¡± The male spoke in a subtle tone as he looked at Areyth.


    Elaine¡¯s eyes widened, her lips parting, a gentle blush etched across her face, her lips curving into a smile as she jolted up out of her chair, running past the male and out of the room.


    ¡°So¡­He is alive?¡± Areyth spoke softly as she looked at the male in front of her, rather shocked at the news. The man¡¯s name was Sir Romeo, the head captain of the Royal Guard, and the once personal guard to the king himself, before his untimely passing.


    ¡°Indeed¡­However, it seems his heart has been tainted by evil, I threat that he is not the man that we once knew¡­¡± Romeo spoke in a gentle tone as he walked over to the window, placing his hand on the window cell as he looks out to the courtyard below.


    ¡°I see¡­Then I must warn Elaine¡­¡± Areyth responded as she walked to the doorway, looking back at Romeo only for a brief moment before she perused her younger sister.

 Chapter Four - Heart of Darkness

    Crowds gathered around the courtyard just outside the palace as a shrill cry would carry over the winds, thus it appeared. An alar creature, soaring through the sky as it descends to the ground below, the piercing shriek of the wyvern would echo throughout the kingdom as it looks upon the crowd standing in awe of its presence. Haze from the wyverns mouth would recede as it allures a vehement hiss, its bloody red eyes looking upon the people surrounding it, now avoiding its sinister gaze.


    A hooded figure dismounts, adorn in a cloche of black it looks upon the crowd with a wicked stare, its gleaming purple eyes would flicker from beneath its helm. Beneath the cloche, a suit of clad black armour would press itself against the figures tall frame, etched into its obscure armour; skulls of horrendous sorts would array themselves over its shell. Resting on its back, a large barbed broadsword would glimmer in the suns radiant hues, emanating a deep purple characteristic. The figure discharged a dark aura from within its being as it stepped forth as it began to detach its helm, revealing its features.


    Pushing through the crowd of guards and merchants, Elaine would look upon the man whom had obtruded the kingdoms domain, her eyes widening as she realizes the dark being before her, was once her beloved. Slowly, she approached the gloomy figure a look of dismay upon her face.


    ¡°I¡­Is that you¡­Aeacus?...¡± She spoke softly as she looked up at the man before her. His grey hair lazily hanging over his pale, seemingly lifeless face, his eyes avoid of life, lost in a turmoil of suffering.


    ¡°E¡­Elaine¡­¡± The figure spoke as he raised his hand, gently placing it on her cheek as he looked into her eyes, his eyes now agape with shock. ¡°I never¡­Thought I would see you again¡­¡±


    ¡°What happened to you¡­¡± Elaine spoke, a tear rolling down her flushed cheek as she looks up at Aeacus, gently placing her hand on his.


    ¡°I¡­Went in search of immortality for the king¡­But alas¡­I was the one whom received the curse of eternal life¡­In exchange for mine¡­I have received damnation¡­A livid nightmare of which I shall never awaken¡­¡± Aeacus spoke gently as he looked at Elaine, his voice ever so gentle, yet full of sorrow and agony.


    ¡°W¡­What are you talking about?...¡± Elaine placed her hand upon the chest plate of his armour, her expression was confused...distressed, she couldn¡¯t comprehend what he had said.


    ¡°It means he is immortal, he is tainted by a darkness ever so fowl that he will never recover¡­He is beyond saving¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly as she approached the two. Wearing a suit of silver armour, the shiny chest plate covering her curvy bust, her long elegant black hair flowing in the gentle breeze as she grabs the sheath of a katana strapped to her thigh, slowly unsheathing it.


    Unauthorized usage: this tale is on Amazon without the author''s consent. Report any sightings.¡°Elaine¡­Get away from him¡­He isn¡¯t human¡­¡± She spoke softly as she points her blade at Aeacus, her hands trembling as she grits her teeth ¡°What are you¡­What happened to the Aeacus I knew¡­He would never descend into darkness¡­¡±


    ¡°You all look to darkness as if it were a burden¡­An abnormality¡­Yet you seek perfection¡­In order to achieve that you must also accept the natural form of chaos¡­I learned that myself¡­But, a goal such as that only leads to ruin¡­Just look at me¡­I know what I¡¯ve become, and I will never find peace in this state¡­Do you think I wanted this?...It was forced upon me, a burden that I shall carry for eternity¡­¡± Aeacus spoke gently as he kneels down, putting his arm around Elaine gently, holding her. ¡°I¡¯m sorry Elaine¡­If only I could ever atone for my sins¡­Maybe then I would finally be at peace¡­¡±


    ¡°Don¡¯t you touch her you bastard¡­I know what you are¡­You¡¯re a monster¡­¡± Areyth looked upon Aeacus, her sword drawn and ready to strike. But alas, she could not bring herself to do so, lowering her blade as she re-sheathes it. ¡°Dammit¡­Why did this have to happen¡­¡±


    Elaine put her arms around Aeacus, holding onto him gently as she rests her head on his chest, tears rolling down her cheek as she spoke softly ¡°I¡­I thought you died¡­I was so worried¡­After father passed I thought you too had left me¡­¡±


    ¡°Tell me¡­How did this happen, Aeacus?¡± Areyth spoke softly as she approached him, still shocked at what had become of the man before her.


    ¡°I¡­Confronted Him¡­The forsaken king Susano¡¯O¡­He slain my entire troop¡­In an act of vengeance I perused him¡­I knew I was no match for such a being¡­I thought he was going to destroy me, yet he spared me, and cursed me with eternal life¡­He merged with me, tainting my soul with his darkness¡­Thus, I was forced under his accursed contract, never to escape it¡­¡± Aeacus spoke softly as he stood up, resting his hand on Elaine¡¯s head tenderly.


    ¡°Contract? And what would the purpose of this contract be?...¡±Areyth replied, raising an eyebrow as she spoke softly.


    ¡°I have one purpose under this new contract¡­To slay Thanatos, and take vengeance upon him for his ill-doings. He has thrown this would into disarray, and shifted the balance¡­In consequence, Susano¡¯O has chosen to cast judgment upon him¡­¡± He spoke gently as he looks at Areyth, not a single emotion crossed his pale face.


    ¡°Kill Thanatos? Are you crazy? He can¡¯t die, he is death itself¡­How could you possibly achieve such a thing?¡± She replied, stunned by what he had just said.


    ¡°You forget the power I know possess¡­Maybe now, Humanity can finally free itself from its confides of fear¡­And finally live in peace¡­¡± Aeacus spoke softly as he looked up to the sky, the sun writhing across the horizon, slowly descending as night-time arises yet again.

 Chapter Five - The Blind Musician

    Liquid droplets would fall upon the sheet of glass ever so lightly, the placid pitter-patter would break the parched silence, and slowly the raindrops would gently inch down the glass. The cold, eerie breeze would carry along the small drops of rain as they gently descend onto the ground below. Dark, miraculous clouds would blanket the skies with their peculiar gloom, yet still the moons ominous hue would gaze through the clouds, its transcendent light would quietly gape through the large bay window of her sleeping quarters. The soft ring of the violin would gently hum down the halls; the tender serenade would swiftly break through the noise of the rain, only to be accompanied by a figure, standing before the large set of windows.


    Adorn in a white gown the female figure would gently run her slender fingertips across the strings, the bow would swiftly crawl across the edge of the strings as the violin sat against her neck ever so softly. The beautiful tune would hum throughout the room, bringing a tender feeling of sorrow that would blanket the halls with its gloomy presence. A gentle smile etched across the females cherry lips as her long, golden hair would hang lay tied up ever so immaculately, a gentle streak of red would crawl across her pale face, as her eyes open to reveal two silver optics.


    ¡°I just love the sound of the rain¡­Its so gentle, so kind¡­Even if I can¡¯t see it¡­Its almost as if they were tears¡­Full of sorrow they fall upon this world, basking it with their sadness ever so delicately¡­¡± The female spoke in a gentle, timid tone as she moves the bow away from the violin, lowering her arm as she looked to the window.


    A temperate knock at the door would cause the females head to be guided in a curious notion, looking upon the large, wooden doors as they slowly opened. There stood Areyth, dressed in her usual Kimono she would slowly approach the female that stood afore the large window. ¡°Shouldn¡¯t you be resting, Alina?¡± She spoke in a gentle tone as she stood before the female, a soft smile etched across her lips.


    ¡°Y¡­Yea¡­But I can¡¯t sleep, so I figured if I played some violin it would help me relax¡­¡± The female replied, her back arching forward into an apologetic bow as her hands rested against her perky chest. ¡°I¡­I¡¯m sorry¡­I didn¡¯t mean to¡­My awful playing must have woken you up¡­¡±


    An amused chuckle would escape Areyth¡¯s lips as she moved her hand, placing it on Alina¡¯s head softly ¡°You didn¡¯t wake me up, and how could you possibly think that your playing is awful? You know I have always admired your music ever since we were little¡­You shouldn¡¯t be so hard on yourself¡± Areyth smiled softly as she patted Alina¡¯s head.


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    Alina¡¯s gaze narrowed, refusing to inhale her generosity, her slender fingertips would grip the hems of her elegant dress ever so softly as she continued to keep her head down in Areyth¡¯s presence. Her hands gently trembling, her lips quivering softly as Areyth¡¯s hand strode across her golden strands.


    ¡°Why are you always so afraid to look me in the eyes? I may be a Holy Knight now, but I am still your sister after all¡­You shouldn¡¯t be so formal in my company¡­¡± Areyth spoke gently as her hand moved away from Alina¡¯s head, a gentle sigh escaping her rosy lips.


    ¡°I...I guess¡­¡± Alina replied as she looked up, straightening her posture as she looked up at Areyth. ¡°It¡¯s just¡­Unlike the others I don¡¯t have any special powers¡­I¡¯m just a burden¡­I can¡¯t even take care of myself because of my blindness¡­¡±


    A swift motion would guide Areyth¡¯s hand, placing it upon Alina¡¯s rosy cheeks, caressing it ever so gently as she spoke. ¡°What are you talking about? Even if you don¡¯t have any special abilities you are still a princess of Avalon, and the fifth daughter of King Xavier¡­Father had always been proud of his daughters, even you. Your music always captivates whoever listens to it, and not only that, you seem to be rather popular amongst the men¡± She chuckles softly as she looks into Alina¡¯s eyes.


    A steak of red would paint itself across Alina¡¯s face as she placed her hands against her curvy chest. ¡°T¡­That¡¯s not true¡­Men would only see me as a burden¡­I can¡¯t do anything right¡­¡±She looked down at the floor, a sad expression etched cross her lips.


    ¡°Don¡¯t be so hard on yourself. It¡¯s not your fault that you were born blind, and I know you are admired by many¡­Heck; I¡¯ve had to deal with the occasional pervert trying to sneak a peek while you were trying to change¡± She smiled gently as she took her hand away from Alina¡¯s face. ¡°You¡¯re lucky; men wouldn¡¯t dare try that with me. But that¡¯s because I¡¯d knit a sweater out of their veins if they even tried¡± She chuckles ever so gently as she places her arm around her chest, resting just under her bust as she turned around, walking towards the doorway


    ¡°Oh yea, in case you didn¡¯t know, Aeacus has returned¡­¡±

 Chapter Six - Dawn of a New Love

    The morning sun would gently lie within the divulges of the blue, ocean like sky. It¡¯s earnest, delicate grasp would gaze upon the grassy fields below, a soft breeze would gently caress the light green stems of grass as they gently dance within its kind envelop. Exotic flowers of colourful nature would lay scattered across this Garden of Eden. Snow white stands would smoothly flow in the winds loving hold, a gentle smile would run across the females cherry lips as she basked in the suns warm embrace.


    A soft blush would crawl across her pale skin as she looked up to the cerulean skies, laying back on the bed of lenient grass a tender giggle would escape her lips. Her white, frilly dress would clutch against her small, curve less form as she closed her eyes, relaxing in the confides of the scene. Silence swiftly befell the area as the young female dozed off into slumber.


    ¡°I knew I¡¯d find you here, Elaine¡± A male spoke in a subtle, yet gentle tone as he approached the female while she slept. A gentle smile crept across his features as he stood before her. Adorn in a dark attire, comprised of a formal shirt and pants that gently grasped around his slim frame.


    Slowly, he knelt down in front of the female, placing his hand upon her face, his slender fingertips gently caressing her rosy cheeks as she opened her eyes, her purple orbs looking up at the male. ¡°A¡­Aeacus¡­¡± Elaine spoke, in a startled tone as she sat up, looking at the male whom knelt before her, her hand gently resting on her flat chest. ¡°Y¡­You scared me¡­¡±


    A placid chuckle escapes the male¡¯s lips as he watched her rejoinder, now sitting on the soft grass as his eyes, as white as the driven snow looked upon her features. ¡°I do apologize for startling you, Elaine¡± A gentle smile crawled across Elaine¡¯s lips as she laid back yet again, this time laying her head on Aeacus¡¯s lap as she looked up at him, a soft blush running across her expression. Her hand, moving up to meet with his face, gently caressing his cheek as a timid giggle escaped her cherry lips.


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    ¡°I¡¯m glad¡­That your finally home again¡­I missed you so much, my love¡± Her voice so innocent, almost like that of a child.


    The male closed his eyes as he placed his hand against hers, holding it gently as he spoke in a gentle tone. ¡°Not a day went by where I didn¡¯t yearn to see your face¡­To hear your voice even one last time¡­You were the hope I kept within my heart, my reason for being here today¡±


    ¡°Aeacus¡­¡± Elaine spoke in a tender tone as she placed her hand upon his chest as she looked up at him, a gentle blush upon her features as she leaned up close to him, closing her eyes. Aeacus gently placed his hand upon her cheek softly as he too leaned in, their lips almost touching into a gentle kiss.


    ¡°Forgive me for obtruding on your¡­Private moment, but you have been summoned into the meeting halls for an urgent matter, Aeacus¡± A deep voice spoke out, interrupting their kiss as the two looked upon the man approaching.


    ¡°R¡­Romeo¡­¡± Elaine spoke as she pulled away, her face beet red as she placed her hands on her chest, rather embarrassed to be caught at such a sensual moment. ¡°H¡­How long were you watching us?...¡±


    ¡°Long enough, you two need to keep your¡­intimate moments in a more private area, there are guardsmen walking around these parts, it¡¯s not hard to spot people out here¡± Romeo replied as he looked at Elaine, then at Aeacus. Aeacus then let out a gentle sigh as he stood up, slowly walking over to Romeo as he looked back at Elaine ¡°I¡¯ll be back soon, alright?¡±

 Chapter Seven - Promises of kingship

    Deep within the halls of the grand fort of the Holy Knights that sat just outside the castles domain, a meeting was at hand. Within the meeting room a large, circular table would sit betwixt thirteen seats, of which eleven figures sat upon, two of the seats seeming to be vacant. At the end of the room a large window would look out upon the seemingly endless fields below, with elegant purple drapes hanging at each ends of the railing. The tender gaze of the sun would peer in through the window onto the large table, of which a thirteen pointed star laid engraved into the wood. Each figure that sat at their appointed seats were adorn in a suit of armour, two wore suits of golden armour, the rest bore silver armour, all plated with detailed markings of crosses upon their chest plates.


    Standing at the window, looking out upon the fields below, Romeo would be wearing his usual golden armour; his shining sword would sit upon his back in a horizontal position, the blade gently glimmering in the suns gentle scrutiny. Standing next to him, Aeacus would be present, wearing his obscure plating of malevolent armour upon his slender form. The quiet whispers of the other holy knights would break the abnormal silence, the murmurs all chatting about Aeacus¡¯s¡­Odd attire.


    ¡°As you know, King Xavier had passed away not that long after you went missing, Aeacus. With his dying breath he appointed Elaine to become the new sovereign of the kingdom when she is of age¡­Until then the Holy Council has governed Avalon. But seeming as Elaine¡¯s has just turned seventeen, in less than a year she will be of age to take the throne¡± Romeo spoke in a stern voice as he continued to look out to the planes below.


    ¡°Indeed¡­I am aware of this, Sir Romeo. I understand that she is nearly of age to become queen¡± Aeacus replied as he too looked out the window, gazing up at the light blue skies.


    ¡°Yes¡­However that is the problem. Never before has Avalon had a female take the throne. For generations, the title of ruler has been passed down to the firstborn son. Since King Xavier never conceived a male into his family, it was looked as quite a problem. And seeming as he had picked his youngest daughter to become his heir, the council has frowned upon his decision¡±


    ¡°I am well aware of that¡­And I know that Elaine is still not ready to take the burden of becoming the ruler¡­¡± Aeacus replied, a soft sigh escaping his pale lips as he looks over to Romeo.


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    ¡°That is why you were called here, Aeacus. You are her betrothed, destined to be wed to her since she was born. That is why I propose this, when she is of age to take the throne, you will become king. By marrying her before her eighteenth birthday, you will be entitled to take the throne, and having her by your side you still keep the royal blood in rule. But alas, word has gotten out of your return and your new¡­appearance. The people seem to think that you have descended into chaos, and have come back to bring us to ruin¡±


    ¡°That¡¯s absurd! You know yourself that I am still the same as when I left.¡± Aeacus spoke in a gentle tone as he looked back out the window.


    ¡°They don¡¯t know that. You need to prove yourself to them, show them that you have not changed and you are still the same honourable man they once admired¡± Romeo replied as he looked over to Aeacus.


    ¡°How do you suppose he is going to do that? I am sure there are still many holy nights that do not trust him¡± A female¡¯s voice would speak out, as one of the knights stood up from their seat. It was Areyth, dressed in her shining suit of armour, her long ebony strands hanging down to her mid-back. ¡°I for one know that he is still the same man, or I would have already killed him¡± Areyth spoke in a gentle tone as she looked at Romeo, her dark blue eyes glimmering in the suns soft hue.


    ¡°That is what we need to figure out, Areyth. And I am well aware that you trust him, but there are still those who have yet to look passed his obscure appearance¡± Another Holy Knight would speak as he too stood up. Adorn in golden armour the male would look over to Areyth, who sat at the opposite side of the large table. The man¡¯s name was Sir Leon, one of the three golden Holy Knights of Avalon.


    ¡°Yes, we need to discuss our plan to show the people of Avalon that their soon to be king is not some kind of hellish demon¡± Romeo spoke softly as he turned to face the other Holy Knights that sat in their seats.


    ¡°In three months from now we will hold yet another meeting to discuss our plans, until then I appoint you all to devise a strategy to bring Aeacus to his former glory, you are all dismissed¡±

 Chapter Eight - Ambiances Part One

    The gentle sound of gushing water would drift through the chamber; the cascading drops would ripple in soft currents as they fall upon the porcelain floors. A soft haze of steam would emerge from the body of the female standing under the large shower head as the hot liquid would drip upon her form. Slender fingertips would run up and down her bare shoulders, her arms crossed against her chest, holding up her bust as a soft, exultant sigh escapes her lips. Her long, raven black hair would hang down her to her mid back, soaked with the warm liquid.


    Her curvy frame would gently accept the waters amorous embrace, her soft, pale skin glistening in the placid bask of the moons portentous hue as it peered in through a small window of which she looked through. The dark skies would ripple gently as thin clouds crawled across the calm atmosphere. The mere ambiance of the moment caused a soft smile to sneak upon her features, where not a single blemish could be seen upon her face.


    Moving her hand to a small basin that sat perched upon the walls slim fingertips would gracefully grip around a small bar of soap, slowly moving it and rubbing it against her naked form. The small bubbles of soap would swiftly crawl down her frame as the water would wash it away. Closing her eyes she would gently move her hands, beginning to wash her chest, slowly moving down to her stomach, then thighs.


    ¡°Mmm¡­¡±


    A soft moan escapes her lips as her lean fingertips run across her innermost thighs, gently caressing her womanhood as the gushing water dripped upon her form, washing off the remains of the bubbles left in the soaps wake. Slowly opening her eyes again her azure optics would look up at the shower head as the water gently embraces her form, flowing down her face and chest, covering her body in its warm envelop.  Moving her hand away from her thigh she would reach behind her neck, running her fingertips down her long, ebony stands as she begins to wash her hair.


    Sitting on the back of her neck a small symbol would lay engraved into her pastel skin. A small circle with an odd emblem sitting within its loop, one of an unknown origin, even to her. A mere brush of her fingertip tracing across it caused a rather pained expression to decorate itself across her features, letting out an indignant exhalation as she moves her hands away from her hair, letting the water wash away the remains of the soap.


    The single touch caused an odd sensation of nostalgia to sweep across her being, a mere conjecture, a memory of the past she wishes she could forget¡­The day she received this ¡®Gift¡¯ from him¡­Although she saw it as more of a curse than a gift, the mere sight of it made her flinch, it was something that she desires to rid herself of.


    ¡°You¡­The one who I loved, the one who betrayed me¡­Because of you I am cursed¡­But you were also the one who showed me that I do have the power to protect¡­to protect the one who I really love¡± The female spoke in a tender tone, a single teardrop rolling down her rosy cheeks, only to be washed away by the water.


    Ten years ago.


    ¡°Areyth! Are we almost there yet?¡± An adolescent voice would speak in a gentle tone, accompanied by a small female, looking only around the ten of eight years old. Her long, golden hair would gently sway in the warm breeze. A small smile carved across her features, attended by a stretch of red across her cheeks, forming a soft blush upon her face. Her glimmering blue eyes gazed up at another figure, her hand resting in the taller figures hand, their fingers intertwined as they walked down a stone path.


    ¡°We are nearly there sweetie, just a little further¡± The taller figure spoke, her voice much more mature, but just as gentle. Long ebony stands hung down to her mid-back, a gentle smile imprinted upon her face as she looks down at the one who called her sis. Her dark blue eyes gleamed gently in the suns warm bask. The younger female, adorn in an azure, frilly dress, the hems lined with red designs, making the dress seem a little more elegant. The older female, seeming to look only around sixteen years old was wearing a similar dress, but with the hems lined with golden patterns.


    The tender hum of the breeze was carried over the winds, gently caressing the leaves of the trees and the blades of grass as they gracefully danced in its envelop. The suns warm embrace would rest upon the grassy terrain as the two treaded upon a small stone path, leading to a large lake within the forest.


    Now finally arriving at the lake the two females looked out to the scenery, the glimmering lake seemed to stretch over the horizon, rippling with gentle waves as the sun shone its brilliant hue upon the water¡¯s surface. Trees and bushes lined the edges of the lake, small rocks laid scattered around the shore.


    ¡°Wow¡­Its beautiful¡± The younger female cooed as she leaned her head against the older females shoulder, a gentle smile across her lips as she closed her eyes, basking in the suns warm embrace.


    ¡°It is¡­Before Arlos was sent off to fight in the war we would always visit this place, it holds so many great memories¡­If only he was alive, then maybe we could all visit her and have a picnic one day¡± The older female spoke as she looked down at her. ¡°Alina¡­Promise me that you will cherish this place, like I have¡­¡±


    ¡°Of course I will sis!¡± Alina spoke, a gentle giggle escaping her lips as she nuzzled Areyth¡¯s shoulder softly, her arms wrapped around her elder sisters as she lets out s content sigh.


    ¡°Good¡­I¡¯m glad you will¡± Areyth spoke softly, smiling gently as she looked out at the horizon, the winds soft gale gently caressing her face as she too closes her eyes.


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    But no moment of clarity would follow these events.


    The sudden sentiment of fear would blanket the area as a large figure appeared before the two females. Towering over them they open their eyes, to their horror they would see a large man adorn in a suit of obscure armour, with long silver hair swaying in the breeze as his blood red eyes look upon them. He would then speak in a cold, sadistic tone.


    ¡°You promised me that this place would be ours and ours alone, yet you bring¡­Her here¡­¡± He looks at the younger female, raising his hand as he narrows his eyes. With a swift motion of his arm the back of his hand would connect with Alina¡¯s cheek, sending the young girl flying into one of the nearby trees.


    ¡°ALINA!¡± Areyth stood up, screaming as she went to run over to her, but was stopped as the male grabbed her arm, pulling her back.


    ¡°You aren¡¯t going anywhere¡± He spoke yet again as he grabbed Areyth¡¯s neck, lifting her up as he began to tighten his grip. Gasping for air Areyth would claw at his hands, only being able to mutter a few words before she lost consciousness.


    ¡°You¡­Bastard¡­¡±


    Loosening his grip Areyth would fall to the ground as he turned to face Alina, who was now leaning up against the tree, blood trickling down from her forehead as she laid there unconscious. ¡°How dare you taint this place with your presence, you do not deserve to live if you think that you are welcome here¡± The man spoke as he slowly approached Alina, drawing his sword from the sheathe that was strapped to his belt.


    ¡°Arlos¡­Please¡­Don¡¯t¡­¡± Areyth muffled as she opened her eyes, looking as the man approached her younger sister, slowly trying to stand up as the man raised his sword, swinging it at Alina.


    Before the sword would connect with Alina¡¯s neck his swing would be stopped midway, Areyth now standing between them, holding his arm as she looks up at him. Gritting her teeth as tears roll down her cheek.


    ¡°What the hell happened to you? What happened to the sweet, gentle man I once loved?¡± She shouted as she struggled to stop him.


    ¡°He is dead. And you will be too if you don¡¯t let me rid this place of her¡± He spoke in a stern tone as he looked at her, yet again he would wrap his fingers around her slender neck, lifting her up as he lowers her sword ¡°I did plan to kill her in front of you and let you live¡­But you give me no choice¡­¡±


    ¡°Why¡­Why are you¡­Doing this¡­¡± Areyth gasped as she tried to struggle out of his grip, slowly losing consciousness yet again.


    ¡°Why? Because I have to. That girl is an abnormality, a burden. She must be eliminated¡­But I cannot achieve that if you are still living¡± The man spoke as he raised his sword at Areyth. Without hesitation he would thrust the sword into her chest, the sound of flesh tearing would echo throughout the area.


    Areyth¡¯s eyes would widen in agony as blood spurts out of her mouth, her once azure optics now hazed with grey as her life slowly seeps away. Her arms falling limp and lifeless as the man loosens his grip on her neck, pulling out the sword as blood spatters across the green grass, her body falling to the ground.


    ¡°I had no choice but to end you. Now, it¡¯s her turn¡± He spoke softly as he turned to face Alina, who was still passed out against the tree. Slowly approaching her as he flicks the blood off of his blade, now raising it again.


    A lucid flash of light would burst throughout the area; the man¡¯s sword would drop to the ground as he looked down at his chest, blood spurting out of his mouth as he looks down to see his heart, now in the hands of the one who he just murdered.


    ¡°H¡­How¡± He muttered, blood gushing out of his mouth as he turned to face Areyth, his eyes widening at the sight of her.


    Now endowed in a coherent white aura Areyth would stand behind him, her hand lodged in his back, her hands clasped around his heart as she slowly pulls her arm out of his wound, letting him fall to the ground. Her wounds healed, seeming to not even leave a single scar.


    ¡°You don¡¯t need that heart¡­I¡¯ll be taking it¡± Her voice was distorted, somewhat angelic. She lowered her hand, letting go of the man¡¯s heart as it fell to the ground. Her eyes, now glowing with a light blue tinge, her skin covered in odd markings declining down plenty right side.


    ¡°So¡­It was you¡­The demon¡­¡± He muffled as he struggled to keep himself alive, one of his hands resting upon his chest, trying to stop the bleeding. But alas, his time had come to an end. With his dying breath he cursed her.


    ¡°You will suffer¡­You will watch as your loved ones grow old and die while you stay young¡­¡±


    Returning back to normal, Areyth would stumble slightly, placing her hand on her face, her eyes widening as she sees the blood dripping off of her fingertips. ¡°Wh¡­What happened¡­¡± She looked down to see the man lying dead before her.


    ¡°H¡­How¡­¡± She muttered, shocked at what she had just done. Looking over to see Alina, resting up against the tree, slowly opening her eyes.


    ¡°Alina¡­¡± She spoke as she ran over to her sister, kneeling down before her as she gently cups her head in her hand, her other hand placed upon Alina¡¯s cheek. ¡°A¡­Are you hurt?¡±


    ¡°Sis¡­I¡­I can¡¯t¡­¡±Alina mumbled, dazed from the impact as she slowly opened her eyes, looking up at Areyth.


    ¡°You can¡¯t what?¡± Areyth spoke as she looked into Alina¡¯s eyes, gently laying her head down on her lap.


    ¡°I¡­I can¡¯t see¡­¡±

 Chapter Nine - Ambiances Part Two

    The sun gently gazed upon a large temple just outside the castle of Avalon, the shrine comprised of a Japanese type of architecture would appear to be empty, apart from a few figures standing just outside the temples door. Areyth, standing just below the steps to the shrine gently held Alina in her arms, the blood from her wound had dried up, as she lay in Areyth¡¯s arms, her small hands gently clutching the hems of Areyth¡¯s dress. A rather petite lady stood at the doorway, wearing a snow white kimono, her long, jet black hair hung down to her ankles, her light green eyes gazing at Alina as she spoke.


    ¡°Oh my¡­It seems she has been injured¡­Please, come inside and I will heal her¡± The female spoke as she stepped aside, waving her hand gently as Areyth walked passed her into the shrine.


    ¡°Thank you for taking your time to see her¡­Scarlet¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly as she laid Alina down on a futon, gently brushing her golden hair out of her face as she kneeled before her.


    ¡°It¡¯s quite alright, she is my sister after all¡± Scarlet spoke as she too kneeled in front of Alina, holding a small, silver flask of water in her hands. ¡°May I ask what had happened to her?¡±


    ¡°Well¡­I took her to go see the lake just outside the castle and¡­Arlos appeared out of nowhere and attacked us¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly as she held Alina¡¯s hand, letting out a gentle sigh.


    ¡°I thought Arlos lost his life in battle six months ago¡­¡± Scarlet spoke softly as she unscrewed the lid of the flask, gently pouring some of the water into the palm of her hand.


    ¡°I did too¡­But he was dressed in a large suit of black armour¡­It was strange¡­He was allot different than the man I once loved¡­I fear that he had been possessed¡± Areyth spoke softly as she looked up at Scarlet.


    ¡°I see¡­Well, he must have been¡­I can sense a rather repulsive aura seeping from both of you, it seems you were tainted¡­But don¡¯t worry, Ill purge it before it will cause you any harm¡± Scarlet spoke softly as she tipped the handful of water onto Alina¡¯s wound, the glowing water would instantly heal the wont upon impact. The water would then evaporate into thin air afterwards.


    ¡°There¡­Her wounds are healed¡± Scarlet spoke softly as she placed the flask down next to her as she gently placed her hand on Alina¡¯s forehead. ¡°It seems that the impact did cause some internal damage¡­I don¡¯t think I will be able to heal her any further¡­¡±


    ¡°So that¡¯s why she said she couldn¡¯t see¡­The force of the impact most likely caused her to lose her sight¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly as she looked at Alina, who was just waking up.


    ¡°I think so¡­¡± A gentle sigh escapes Scarlet¡¯s rosy lips as she spoke, looking down at Alina as she tried to sit up.


    ¡°W¡­Where am I?..¡± Alina spoke gently as she placed her hand on her head, still dazed from the impact. ¡°A¡­Areyth¡­Are you there¡­¡±


    ¡°I¡¯m here sweetie¡­You¡¯re at the shrine right now¡­Scarlet is healing your wounds¡­But she won¡¯t be able to give you back your sight¡­I¡¯m sorry¡­Its¡­My fault...¡± Areyth spoke softly, gripping Alina¡¯s hand as tears rolled down her cheeks.


    ¡°Sis¡­It¡¯s not your fault¡­¡±Alina spoke gently as she looked up at Areyth, laying back on the bed as she gripped Areyth¡¯s hand.


    ¡°It is¡­If I were strong enough I could have protected you¡­I¡¯m weak¡­¡± Areyth muttered, wiping the tears from her eyes as she gazed down at Alina.


    ¡°You¡¯re not weak. In fact you have powers that you can¡¯t even imagine¡­It seems something within you has awakened¡­If you learn to tame it then you will grow stronger¡­¡± Scarlet spoke softly as she looked up at Areyth.


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    ¡°What do you mean?...¡± Areyth raised an eyebrow as she spoke, rather shocked at what Scarlet had said, not having any recollections of what had happened when she saved Alina.


    ¡°I would not know, that is for you to find out. But the power within you is on par with a Holy Knights¡­Its very odd. No member of the Royal family has had such abilities¡± Scarlet spoke gently as a gentle smile crawled across her features.


    ¡°A Holy Knight? You have to be kidding me¡­There is no way I could possess such a power¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly, rather surprised at what Scarlet said.


    ¡°Its true¡± Scarlet spoke softly, the image of her starting to ripple like a puddle of water, soon her voice flooded out by the faint melody of a distant piano. Causing Areyth to shake off the though, the memory of what had happened ten years ago.


    A gentle sigh escaped Areyth¡¯s lips as she reached for the faucet, turning it off as the flowing water seized. Her naked form still dripping wet with the warm water as she slowly stepped out of the shower, reaching for a large, white towel. Slowly placing it against her form as the fabric soaked up the water, gently drying off her figure as she wrapped the towel around her curvy body. Lifting her hands up behind her neck she would grip the long strands of ebony hair that hung down to her mid-section, slowly ringing out her hair and wrapping another smaller towel around it to soak up the excess water.


    ¡°I¡¯ve really got to stop doing that¡­I always seem to reminisce when I¡¯m in the shower¡­¡± She spoke in a soft tone as she walked out of the large bathroom, opening the wooden door that lead into her private quarters.


    Walking into her chambers she would look around the large room, the walls endowed with dark blue and black markings declining down the walls to the soft carpets. A large bed sat against the wall of the large room. Lined with an azure cloth that would hang off of the edges of the bed, several pillows would decorate the head of the bed, resting against a large, simple headboard.


    At the other end of the room a large window would look out into the courtyard below, cerulean drapes would hang across the window. Sitting in the corner of the room a large case would hold a suit of shining silver armour, resting next to it a long katana would sit inside its sheath.


    ¡°Hmm¡­¡± Areyth sighed ever so gently as she looked around the room, her hands crossed over her chest, holding up her bust as a few droplets of water would drip off of her skin. Walking over to the bed where a set of clothes would rest on its surface, neatly folded sitting next to a pair of lingerie.


    Slowly she would drop the towel onto the ground, revealing her naked form as she began to dry herself off, taking the smaller towel off of her head as her still wet hair would drop down gently, using the towel to dry the remaining water from her hair. After completely drying herself, she would then proceed to get dressed.


    ¡°Hmm¡­I wonder if she is still awake¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly as she dressed herself. Now wearing a dark blue dress, matching the colour of her azure eyes, the hems of the dress lined with black to match her long, elegant strands of hair.


    ¡°I should go check on her¡­¡±

 Chapter Ten - An Unfolding Story

    The soft tune of the piano would gently melt away the silence; the blissful melody would swiftly caress the ambiance of the night. The moons gentle hue would gaze upon the top of a hefty, black piano that sat next to a large window. Sitting atop the piano a small candle would light up the area in its tender bask, the small flame dancing quietly, as if it were in rhythm with the tune of the piano¡¯s harmony.


    Slender fingertips would trace along the keys of the piano, gently pressing upon them as they glide up and down the keyboard, its calm tune bringing a tranquil feeling upon the room¡¯s atmosphere, yet the glimmering hint of sorrow would tickle its way through the melody.


    The figure sitting at the piano would perch themselves upon a small, black stool of which they sat on as they played the soft tune. A trivial smile upon their features, letting the music envelop their very being. Her long, smooth golden hair would gently hand over her shoulders, resting upon her curvy chest and stopping mid-way down their back. Her form endowed in a graceful, pinkish-white coloured dress, the hems of the clothing would stop at their wrists and knees, a rather simple attire made from soft, breathable fabric.


    Another figure would sit upon a large couch near the piano, sitting on the couch with her legs crossed over and a book in her lap. Her willowy fingers gently brushing aside the pages as her azure eyes gazed upon the books contents. Her long, jet black hair tied up ever so immaculately, a thin red ribbon holding it in a small bun. A few loose strands hanging over her face, gently brushing up against her pale skin as she listens to the sweet melody of the piano. Slowly closing the book as the female looked over to the one sitting at the piano, a gentle smile upon her rosy lips as she spoke in a kind tone.


    ¡°You¡¯ve gotten really good at playing haven¡¯t you, Alina?¡± The female spoke as she placed the book upon a large table that sat in front of the couch. Slowly standing up as she approaches the Alina, who was still playing the piano.


    ¡°Yea¡­It was hard for me to begin playing again after I lost my sight, but as you told me, I shouldn¡¯t give up¡­¡± Alina spoke softly as she continued playing the piano, smiling softly as the female wraps her arms around her neck, resting her chin on Alina¡¯s shoulder, gently hugging her from behind as she lets out a soft chuckle as she spoke.


    ¡°Well, I think you have gotten allot better ever since, your music is allot more¡­Sensual¡­¡±


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    A soft blush crawled upon Alina¡¯s features as she looked away, her hands moving away from the piano keys. ¡°T¡­That¡¯s not true¡­Areyth¡±


    ¡°It is sweetie¡­You have grown up allot since then¡­You and I both¡± Areyth chuckles softly as she gently kisses Alina¡¯s cheek, her soft lips pressing against her rosy cheeks.


    ¡°Wha...What was that for?¡± Alina spoke softly, her face beet red as she looked away, rather embarrassed.


    ¡°No reason, I just love it when you get embarrassed, you are just so cute¡± Areyth chuckled softly as she whispered into Alina¡¯s ear.


    ¡°Y¡­You know I don¡¯t like being teased¡­¡± Alina muttered, shivering slightly as Areyth whispered in her ear, her warm breath hitting her soft, sensitive skin.


    ¡°You two are so indecent¡­¡± Another voice would speak, accompanied by a figure sitting on a small chair near the window. Her short, curly brown hair would bounce softly as she looks up. A large book sitting on her lap. The female wore a pair of glasses, hiding her light yellow eyes, her cheeks covered in small freckles. Wearing a dark blue pair of pants and a short, black t-shirt that gently grasped her bust.


    ¡°How long have you been there?¡± Areyth muffled as she stood up, pulling away from the hug as she looked over to the woman sitting on the chair.


    ¡°The whole time. You know I always come here to listen to Alina¡¯s music while I read¡± The female spoke softly as she closed the book, letting out  gentle sigh as she fixed her glasses, placing her slender fingertips upon the rim of the glasses.


    ¡°That¡¯s true. But most of the time you are so quiet that it¡¯s like you are not even there, Shey. And most of the time you are usually in Abby¡¯s room¡± Areyth spoke gently, placing her hand on her hip as she looked at Shey.


    ¡°Abigail is sleeping right now; I didn¡¯t want to disturb her¡± Shey spoke in a soft tone as she placed the large book on a stool that sat next to the chair. ¡°By the way¡­I sense an...Odd presence nearby¡­¡±


    Just outside the castle, ontop of one of the guard towers a figure would stand merged with the shadows the black figure would look upon the castle. A long pole in their hands, with a slightly curved blade at its end, dripping with blood. The guard that was stationed at the tower laid dead on the floor, his head missing, only to be seen hanging from the hands of the one who murdered him. A sanguine voice would then speak.


    ¡°Now the fun begins¡±

 Chapter Eleven - Intruder

    ¡°Oh, how fun. So many guards, cattle running to their slaughter¡±


    A single, sadistic voice would echo throughout the courtyard, the piercing hum of the castles alarm would slice through the silence, the figure would look down upon several guardsmen who had caught sight of her, running towards her as they saw the mans decapitated head in its hands. Slowly raising its hand, throwing down the severed head as it rolled towards the guards.


    ¡°Keep it. I was going to have it as a trophy, but I guess I''ll find a more suitable one¡± The figure mumbles as it looks upon the guards, who were now staring blankly at the severed head, their eyes widened with shock. ¡°What th-¡± One of the guards went to speak, midway through their sentence they reached for their neck, looking down in horror as blood spurt out of their throat ¡°H...how¡± They muttered as the fell to the ground, the other guards now drawing their attention to the figure, which still stood at the top of the watch tower, blood dripping off of the blade of the scythe.


    ¡°How sad¡­You really shouldn¡¯t take your eyes off of the enemy when in battle, it¡¯s reckless¡± The figure would let out a bloodcurdling laugh as it jumped off of the roof, landing behind the guards as they turned to face the intruder. Up close, the figure had a woman-like form, adorn in a jet black dress, their bright, unnatural pink hair flowed in the gentle breeze, tied up in pig tails. Slowly standing up they look over their shoulder at the guards, a sadistic smile etched across their features as they spoke yet again, a serpent-like tongue flickering out of their rosy lips.


    ¡°Oh my, you guards look like strong men¡­I don¡¯t think a little girl like me could stand a chance against you¡± Their tone was rather sarcastic. Tilting her head over her shoulder with a rather unsettling smirk across her visage she would observe the guards, seeing more come from the distance.


    The scythe she wielded was rather strange, the blade and pole was pitch black, with chains wrapped around its length, attached to the blunt end of the scythe the chain trailed halfway down the pole, running up and around her arm. The serrated blade was shaped like a claw, the handle resembling something along the lines of a long, thin bone. The female¡¯s eyes were strange, her left eye was an icy blue colour, her right eye had a blood red tinge, both full with the lust to kill, and the love for bloodshed.


    The guards raised their swords, ready to strike as they gritted their teeth, knowing that they would die if they moved. ¡°Dammit¡­¡± One of the guards muttered under their breath as he observed the female before them, she was not human.


    ¡°GET HER¡± One of the guards shouted as he charged towards her, his sword raised. The female stood there silently, watching the man charge at her as he swung his sword. Taking a single step back she would lean back, narrowly missing the edge of the blade as it passed through thin air, just a few inches from her neck.


    Not hesitating, the female would then swing her left leg up and around the man¡¯s arm, grabbing his wrist with her free hand, gripping it tightly as she then rammed her right kneecap into his chest, pulling on his wrist as she pulled, ripping his arm off as she leans over, flinging her arms out as she presses them against the ground, cartwheeling with a rather violent kick, now landing on her feet a few meters away. The man would stumble back, yelling in pain as he grabs the stub that once was his arm, Blood pouring out of the wound as he looks at the female as she throws away the man¡¯s arm.


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    ¡°My my, you pervert, I saw you peeking up my skirt when I did that¡­So indecent¡­¡± The female chuckles softly as she smirked, raising her scythe as she ran towards the guard.


    The guard, not having any means to counter would step back, a horrified expression on his face as he watches the female dash towards him. Leaning down as she swings the scythe upwards, the blade easily cutting through the guard, slicing him in half. Blood would spurt out as the man fell, falling apart as he hit the ground, now soaked in his and his comrade¡¯s blood.


    ¡°Oh, I just love it when they bleed like that¡­It¡¯s such a turn on!¡± The female smirks as she lowers her arm, holding the blade in front of her face as her serpent-like tongue would lick the blood off. ¡°Mmm¡­So tasty¡­¡±


    Silence swiftly befell the room as the sudden, overwhelming sensation of fear had blanketed the area. Areyth looked over to Shey, raising an eyebrow at what she had just said, wondering what exactly she meant. Then she felt it. The piercing sensation that swept through her like a knife, as if a hand was clasped around her heart, crushing it. ¡°W...What the hell¡­¡± Areyth muttered as she ran over to the window, looking out as her eyes widened.


    The shade of red wistfully blanketed the courtyard, the decapitate bodies of the guardsmen laid scattered across the grasp. In the middle of the courtyard a single figure stood, welding what seemed to be a large scythe in its hands. ¡°How¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly as she watched more guards run towards the figure, slain as soon as they came.


    A knock on the door broke through the unsettling silence as it slowly opened, Romeo stood at the door, with Aeacus behind him. ¡°All of you, get to the shelter. Now. This is an emergency, the palace has been invaded by an unknown enemy¡­They seem to have no trouble cutting the guards down¡± Romeo spoke as he looked over to Areyth. ¡°Get changed into your armour, Areyth. We need you to help is defend the castle¡±


    ¡°But, what about Abby and Elaine?¡± Areyth spoke as she looked at Romeo, a rather worried expression upon her visage.


    ¡°You needn¡¯t worry, we have already taken them to the bunker, you three are the only ones that have yet to be taken there. Two Holy Knights are waiting in the hallway to escort you all¡± Rome spoke gently as he walked over to Areyth.


    A gentle sigh escapes Areyth¡¯s lips as she nods, running out of the room and down the hallway to change into her combat armour. Meanwhile Romeo and Aeacus began to evacuate the others to the ¡®bunker¡¯. A large, underground shelter that was built for times of disaster, or moments like these, but the only problem was getting them all there.


    ¡°Let¡¯s go, we don¡¯t have much time before the enemy finishes off the guards. Thankfully we have reinforcements¡± Romeo spoke softly as he grabbed Alina¡¯s hand, leading her out of the room and down the hall. Shey followed behind closely, holding a large book in her hands.


    Areyth, now in her room would quickly dress herself in her armour, grabbing the sword as she lets out a gentle sigh, attaching it to her belt as she looked out the window. The sound of the guards screaming, and the intruders laughter would fill the air. ¡°I guess I have no choice huh¡­I''ll probably have to use it¡­¡±She sighed gently as she mumbled, walking out of her bedroom.

 Chapter Twelve - Angel of Ice

    The stench of blood would taint the air; the screams of agony would drown out the sound of the alarm as more guards fell before her. The unknown female would continue to cut her foes down left and right, seeming to enjoy the slaughter. She stood before a group of guards as he bright pink hair flowed in the breeze, a sadistic grin etched across her visage as she raised her scythe. Blood dripped off of the blade as she pointed it at the men before her.


    ¡°Who¡¯s next?¡± The female spoke softly, followed by a blood curdling giggle as she lowered her scythe, kneeling down as she readied her stance. The guards would raise their swords, although the expression on their faces was one knowing that they would die right then and there. As the female prepared to attack, shifting her feet as she looked up at her prey, the grin upon her sanguine lips still present. With a swift kick to the ground she would launch herself at her opponents, leaving a small crater behind her as she rocketed towards them.


    A flash of white light would burst throughout the courtyard as a loud rumble would follow. The female, now stopped in her tracks would look upon a figure standing before her. The figure adorn in a suit of glowing silver angelic armour. Two rather small, snow white wings would extend from their shoulders, oscillating in the chilling breeze as the figure looked at the intruder. Her long, elegant jet black hair would sway in the breeze as her deep blue eyes looked upon her foe, not a single expression ran across her visage.


    The scythe that the intruder wielded would be stopped in mid swing by a long, silver pole arm, a spear. Wrapped around the long pole of the spear a white ribbon would loosely hang off of its length. The sharp blade attached to its end would hold a glowing purple gem that pulsated slowly. The newly arrived figure would stand facing the guards, holding her spear in her right hand as the pole reached to her left shoulder, where the blade of the scythe was only inches away from beheading her. Her left hand wrapped around the other end of the pole, her slender fingertips wrapped around the pole arm.


    The intruder would lock eyes with the female before her, gritting her teeth as she jumped back, still holding her scythe in her hands as she observed the one before her. ¡°Who the hell are you?¡± The female spoke as she lowered her scythe, narrowing her eyes.


    ¡°I should ask you the same. But if you want to know, my name is Areyth, I am a Holy Knight, and you are my enemy¡± Areyth spoke in a stern tone as she too narrowed her eyes, turning her body to face her opponent.


    ¡°Areyth huh? So you are one of them¡­One of the Princesses of Avalon¡­I was not told you were a Holy Knight¡­¡± The female spoke as her eyes gazed at the odd spear Areyth held. ¡°And my name is Nyx. Not that it matters anyway, since you are going to die here¡± Nyx spoke softly as she raised her scythe, gripping the pole as she kept her eyes on Areyth.


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    ¡°Is that so? Then you must be stupid. You came here of your own volition, but I have no time to indulge in your provolity. The likes of you are not worth humouring¡± Aryeth¡¯s tone lowered as her gaze meet with her opponents. A white haze of aura would seep off of her shining armour as she raised her spear, pointing it outward as she slowly began to approach her opponent.


    Small snowflakes began to form around Areyth as she slowly walked closer to Nyx, the temperature of the air around her seemed to drastically drop, as if her mere presence was distorting the weather. Areyth took a deep breath, closing her eyes as the snowflakes began to meld themselves, forming floating daggers comprised of ice. The wings on her armour would begin to extend, forming themselves into follow grown angel wings as they stretched out behind her.


    Areyth would slowly open her eyes, her once dark blue eyes now glowing with a bright azure haze as the ground around her began to form hoarfrost. A gentle smile would crawl across her features as she spoke, her voice distorted, sounding rather angelic. ¡°Genesis frowns upon your presence, you are not welcome here, intruder¡±


    ¡°Die¡±


    The moment Areyth uttered the word ¡®Die¡¯ her voice would echo throughout the area, causing the real around them to become distorted, the pallet of the area would alter itself, only to revert a single second afterwards, followed by a flash of white light. The single word spoken would cause the daggers of ice to shoot towards her opponent, who would have little to no time to counter due to the flash of white light blinding her.


    As the flash of light faded Areyth would lower her weapon, looking upon her opponent who was skewered with dozens of spears formed out of ice, seeming too had come from all directions. Her arms stretched out to the side, looking as if she were crucified by the sickles of ice. Still holding the scythe in her hands as her lifeless face looked down to the ground, blood dripping out of her mouth slowly.


    ¡°That was too easy¡­¡± Areyth spoke softly, letting out a gentle sigh as she turned to face the guards, who merely watched in awe of what had just taken place. ¡°Get this mess cleaned up, make sure the bodies are collected so they can have a proper sending¡± With that said the guards saluted her, nodding as they called for reinforcements to take their fallen comrades to the morgue.


    ¡°I do wonder¡­Was this just a random attack or was it planned?¡± Areyth spoke softly as she looked back at her deceased opponent, raising an eyebrow as she observed the female before her. Who now had a grin upon her face as she looked back at Areyth. ¡°You really think that is all it takes to kill me?¡±

 Chapter Thirteen - He Who Watches From the Darkness

    ¡°It seems things are going according to plan¡­Excellent¡±


    A luminous castle of glass, sitting betwixt a barren wasteland, the skies would ripple in shades of blood red and black. A voice would echo throughout the darkness of the halls of this great bastion as a pair of blood red eyes would illuminate through the shadows, accompanying the deep, sadistic voice, followed by a brutal cackle. A figure to fit the voice¡­sitting on a throne made out of bones and corpses. The figure would be wearing a suit of clad black armour, with a golden crown atop its head; its bloodshot eyes would be full of bloodlust. With metal skin covering its body, it resembles that of a skeleton. with long crooked horns and bony, dagger like claws tapping on the arm of the throne quietly as it sits back, looking into an orb of darkness that sat betwixt a pedestal in front of its throne. Its massive dragon like wings would spread out behind it, shrouded in darkness.


    As the figure speaks, its long, jagged bile covered teeth would show as its long serpents tongue would flicker. Around the throne that the figure sits, a large star would be glowing, a Septagram to be exact, a seven pointed star. At each point of the star would sit a pedestal, with a glyph glowing on it, the glyphs are the representations of the seven deadly sins¡­sloth, gluttony, greed, envy, lust wrath and pride.


    In front of the throne yet another pedestal would stand, with a small orb sitting upon it. The figure looks into the orb, observing the battle at hand as a gentle cackle escapes its maw. ¡°Servant, come here. Now¡± The figure spoke yet again as it continued to stare into the orb, watching in silence as a hooded being emerges from the darkness next to the throne, bowing down in his presence.


    ¡°What is it, master?¡± The servant spoke in a frail voice.


    ¡°It seems that we have¡­a problem at hand. That pesky female, the one who controls ice is making things difficult¡± He replied, tapping his claw like fingers on the throne ever so softly.


    ¡°And what shall we do about it, sir?¡± The servant replied, keeping his head bowed low as he awaited his master¡¯s response.


    ¡°Send the others in, and do it now¡± He spoke yet again, gripping his hands around the arm of the throne as he grits his hellion teeth in revulsion.


    ¡°I SAID NOW DAMIT¡± He yells as he looks down at his hooded servant, smashing his bony fist onto the arm of the throne.


    ¡°V...Very well sir¡± The figure replies as it dismantles into the shadows, vanishing from the throne room as its master looks back at the orb.


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    ¡°I swear¡­I¡¯m surrounded by idiots¡± He spoke yet again as he places his hand upon his face, letting out a sigh in disgust, looking into the orb as he continues to watch the chaos unfold.


    Meanwhile.


    Back at the castle of Avalon the fight continued, the pink haired female would break free from the crucifix of ice as she let out a sadistic giggle, a wide grin upon her visage as she looked up at Areyth who stood before her.


    ¡°Well, I shouldn¡¯t underestimate you. But then again I¡¯m not even trying here¡± Nyx spoke as she ran towards Areyth, jumping in the air as she swings her scythe at her.


    Areyth merely raised her sword, blocking the oncoming attack with ease as she looked up at Nyx, not a single emotion running across her visage as she spoke. ¡°What a persistent pest you are, do us all a favour and stay dead¡±


    Areyth raised her hand as a small orb of ice appeared in her palm, closing her fist as the small orb glowed from within her hand. Not a moment later she would open up her palm as a dagger of ice emerged. With a swing of her wrist she would aim to behead her pink haired opponent, but the second before the dagger made contact Nyx jumped back.


    ¡°Hmm¡­You shouldn¡¯t act so cocky¡­The others will be here soon, and when they arrive, you will all perish¡± Nyx spoke as she observed Areyth closely, gritting her teeth as she raised her scythe.


    ¡°Oh? So there are more of you. How said¡± Areyth spoke as she raised her sword, readying her stance as she narrowed her eyes. With a swift kick of her feet she would launch herself towards her opponent.


    Nyx raised her scythe in front of her in hopes to block the attack, when Areyth was only a few feet away from her she seemed to just vanish. ¡°What th-¡± Nyx¡¯s eyes would widen as she looked around the area, wondering what had happened.


    ¡°You are too slow¡± Areyth would speak, now behind her as she slashes her sword at the back of Nyx¡¯s neck, beheading the pink haired female in a single swing of her blade.


    Nyx fell to the ground, her head rolling across the blood-stained pasture as blood poured out of her neck. Areyth would look down at her fallen opponent as she lowered her sword, speaking yet again. ¡°You¡¯ve lost¡±


    ¡°My my¡­Things are getting rather interesting¡­¡± Another voice would echo throughout the courtyard as two feminine figure stood at the top of the castle. One figure holding a large Kunai and the other holding a spear.