Sun and Shadow

[Gowpon]

Ok guys, this has absolutely NOTHING to do with Tolkien. So don't bite me! lol
This is my first try, so plz be generous!
And I NEED COMMENTS!!!
So please say something if u feel like to, ok? :cool: If there's no response, I'll probably think that no one's reading it or everyone hates it. :naughty:

ps: this is a girl and a guy's story...and again, nothing to DO with LOTR and other Tolkiens work.
ps again: There might be some grammar problems...it's NOT easy to write something with English as second language!!! So plz endure it :naughty: HAHA not really, I usually checked everything over and over again just to make sure that it's all right. lol

Here it is!! (If u hate it, plz don't tell me :naughty: )

[Gowpon]

Sun and Shadow: The Chronicles of Fellymdor

Chapter one Izaia

A young girl sat at the rim of a small pond away from the trail, her silvery hair full with colorful-beads-twined braids shimmered under the fierce sunlight. A set of exquisite blue eyes and delicate feature matched her moderate height effortlessly. But those eyes held no joy and happiness as a young girl as she should, instead, there were rebellion and sadness.

Izaia stared at the placid water and was already lost in her thoughts. Being at the Wrong place and the wrong time, perhaps I should try not to appear anytime when Emerald is roaming around. Izaia thought about the idea bitterly. Her sarcastic comment on her sister’s gossiping had cost her much. Go somewhere else and stop bothering your sister? Oh, at least that’s what Mother said. Izaia tossed a pebble at the water, making ripples and broke her reflection.

Why was I born in this family in the first place? Father and Mother already had Emerald to pamper and spoil, besides, they made me feel as if I’m not one of them! But Izaia had to admit that her sister was much more beautiful than any girl in the clan. At the tender age of fifty, Emerald was already well known for her beauty in Gaene, and perhaps other clans of Angelica. Wavy silver hair and big green eyes with long, bushy eyelashes, her striking feature and graceful slender body perfectly resembled the Moon Goddess. Emerald was the pride of her parents.

People don’t care if she can chop woods or not! Don’t even mention the fact that she fainted at the very sight of a knife. Especially when all those men are around and with me beside her…

Izaia was enraged by the thought. Emerald never treated her properly as a sister would, or should. Always trying to use Izaia as a comparison in the public, knowing that her younger sister was regarded as a weird one by most people in Gaene. But how can I change who I am? Not doing any good in feminine duties, Izaia made the decision to start working on her fighting skills after her thirtieth birthday passed, even though no other man except the family’s old friend, Medihva, was willing to teach her. She mastered her skills within a very short time despite her family’s objection. When she was 40, even a Master like Medihva started to find it hard to defeat her.

That’s probably why Emerald hates me more than ever recently. I’m only a young girl, not yet a woman, but I beat her. And Emerald was not used to being beaten.

She sighed and regarded her reflection again which reappeared after the pebbles were gone. What could she do anyway? Emerald was why she was here in the first place. Izaia couldn’t bear the thought of being with her sister for the rest of her life. Even though Angels weren’t really angels, they still lived a long life very close to being immortals. Since her childhood, Izaia was considered plain by her people because she didn’t match the standard of beauty in Angelica. And with Emerald around, it was possible that she would never get married and enjoy life, as the Elders said.

With Izaia’s mother paying all the attention to Emerald, there weren’t anyone interested in Izaia after her fortieth birthday—also the day she became a reinna, which meant young woman (about 15 years old in our standard) in Angelican.

Why should I enjoy life by marrying off anyway? Izaia countered. She remembered what Granny Asia said about life. You can enjoy it anytime. The fact is, there wasn’t anyone celebrating her birthday with her except Medihva. However, the two of them still had a good time together.

Indeed, I feel just all right with a life like this. Despite the fact that I got bullied by my own sister, considered as a freak by the clan…and don’t forget that my parents see me as the biggest mistake in their life. Yes, I’m doing fine, of course I am. Izaia let out a chuckle and lay down on the lawn.

So fine indeed

[Miruvor]

A sweet little story. Could use a proofreader and a little revising, but just the right length. (I won't read any posts longer than that - sorry.) Sounds sort of like it could have been the 'Adolesence of Zena the Warrior Princess'.

[Gowpon]

haha, don't worry, it's not finished yet :naughty:
Thanx anyways!!!
Actually, I think what Isaid about "It has nothing to do with Tolkien" was wrong. It was pretty much inspired by the story of Aragorn and Arwen. U know, two different races want to join together...
sigh...going back to work now...

[Gowpon]

Time drift by but Izaia didn’t seem to care, and her closed eyelids hid her thoughts inside. Perhaps I should go to Granny Asia now. I haven’t been to her place for about a week and she needs company as much as I do. I’ll probably meet Medihva there and have my lesson altogether.

Asia was an old woman that lived within the edge of Spirit Woods, which wasn’t very far from Gaene. Years ago, despite the protest of Gaene’s people, she insisted that she would live in the forest, apart from the clan. No one had any idea how old she was, including Izaia. She was there when the Elders were born, or some people said, before.

The girl and the old woman became close friends since Izaia’s childhood, and Granny Asia was the only person who would listen to her besides Medihva. Asia had always known how to comfort young Izaia from her misery, and treated the girl as her own.

I wonder why she wants to live near the border. Isn’t it dangerous to be close to the Demons? Izaia shuddered at the thought of Demons. Water of the Spirits and the Bridge were the only defense that kept the Demons at bay. She had heard stories of their cruelty and relentless nature from her parents. Sometimes she just couldn’t help worrying for Granny Asia.
Maybe Granny doesn’t care about her own life anymore, since she already lived for so long.

It was said that neither Angels nor Demons could cross Vaesha Bridge because an ancient spell prevented them from passing. But Izaia still held doubt. A few had been to the other side of the woods, and none had ever seen the bridge. The story of Vaesha Bridge was told by the Elders and songs. SinceAngels were content with their life, it was no wonder that no one even bothered to find out the truth.

I wonder if Asia knows.

With tons of question packed inside her head, Izaia decided that it was time for her to go to the old woman. But before that, she had to pick up her weapons for training, because there was a great possibility that her teacher might be there. Angels often seek the council of Elders, but Asia processed the power and wisdom hidden from the clan. And only Izaia and Medihva knew the best way to find out answers was to go to Asia.

She stood up and headed towards the trail that led back to Gaene. As she walked, she checked her outfit thoroughly. Even though Granny Asia didn’t judge people by their appearances like Emerald did, Izaia was unwilling to lose her basic courtesy.

Sleeveless milky white robe fitted loosely around her body, the only clothing that marked her status was the Golden braided thong that circled her waist and dangled beside her right hip, which signified her as a reinna.
Perfect. But I hope Medihva won’t comment on it. Men always have trouble with taste and style. Well, at least he and Father do. Izaia smiled at this and her troubled mind seemed to be put at ease for a little.

[Gowpon]

Izaia immediately knew that something was wrong when she walked through the front yard. The sounds of arguing and high-pitched whining reached her half way through the garden before she could set a foot through the arch—which signified the front door.

“Why does she have to come? Izaia is used to look after the house, I don’t see why should we let her go with us!” She recognized her sister’s voice and pulled back her step just in time. Experience told her not to join those family discussions when her sister was part of it. Looks like I should go take a long walk. She pivoted and turned to the back of the house.

Making her way through the tangled ferns, Izaia chose her footing carefully on the granite steps. She didn’t want any mud on her boots when she made her way into her room. Besides, all she needed to do was to get in and pick up her gear without being noticed. Which was not hard to do since all the family members are busy working on their tongues. She mused and climbed on an oak tree directly in front of her room. With cat-like agility, she made her way up to the extended branch and swung her feet on the windowsill. The branch whined a little but it didn’t crack. Izaia let out a sigh of relief and was through the window in no time.

A piece of cake.

She rolled across the floor. The closet was not far away in the opposite end of the room. Izaia crawled over the bed and gingerly pulled out the drawer, ignoring the tiny squeaking sound made by the bed. She quickly uncovered leather straps full of throwing knives, wrapped some around her waist under the golden belt and some fastened on her wrists. Then she slid the closet’s door to the side and grabbed the scimitars from their hiding place.

Don’t forget the bow and quiver. She reminded herself under her breath.

Izaia got down on the floor and lifted up her bedding, revealing her bow and quiver. After swinging them over her shoulder, she shoved the bedding back into place.

Looks like it is time to go.

She tiptoed to the windowsill, leapped up and grabbed the branch then moved back to the trunk. Izaia slid to the ground smoothly and doubled checked her gear, making sure that nothing was missing.

And the next second, she was gone.

[Galadriel]

That was a very good story. i really liked it.

[Gowpon]

Izaia put her hands on her scimitars subconsciously. Even though she had been in the Spirit Woods hundreds of times, there was still no guarantee that nothing was lurking behind the bushes. The wild nature is powerful was what Asia used to say. Respect and be respected in return. At least it made sense to Izaia, she knew what was in the forest and she was not going to let her guard down.

The scimitars—Twilight and Aurora were her fortieth birthday present from Medihva. She didn’t recall what her parents gave her, maybe something like jewelry that she would never wear, or some expensive dress she never bothered to put on. They gave her same kind of gifts every year that she didn’t recognize the significance anymore.

They care, but they just don’t understand me—my life and my dream.[I] I/zaia let out a sigh and moved on.

She had always treasured her weapons, especially the scimitars. They were decorated with crystals, bluish blades still made her stare in awe every time. The scimitars were in exact same size and appearance, only the runes on their blades gave their names away. Specially designed to fit her size, the twin scimitars were much lighter than other blades and easier to handle. [I]Medihva said they were blessed with magic…what does that mean? Izaia knew that the pale bluish glow surrounding the blades were anything but natural, and was impossible to be done by handcraft. But magic? That was totally beyond her.

Perhaps a mage helped him to forge them. She shut the idea away after a second thought. Medihva has nothing to do with magic. He is a warrior, and he doesn’t care about magic, and less a mage.

Her steps turned into a joyful hop as she saw the sign of her destination—Asia’s herb garden. The aura of the plants made her feel refreshed and clear-minded, and the white figure moving back and forth in the garden lightened her steps and heart.

“What brings you here, my little bird?” The old woman looked up and smiled as she heard the garden’s gate being pushed open. Her voice was deep but yet not too deep, needing no effort to give people comfort. She looked more like Izaia than the ordinary girls in Angelica, but Izaia didn’t think that Asia was ugly. Actually, she didn’t look old and ugly at all. Her beautiful face was without a single wrinkle, and only her gray eyes revealed how much time had passed since her birth. Those eyes held wisdom and patience of an elder, and they never failed to give Izaia the love and warmth she needed.

“How come you always know that it is me?” Izaia gave up hiding reluctantly and walked out from the back of a datura bush.
“I know it’s you, and there’s nothing more important than that.” The girl saw the mischievous sparkle in her eyes and chuckled. “That’s a good excuse!” she dismissed the every-time-asked question and ran into the old woman’s out-stretched arms.

But Asia somehow knew the girl’s previous grief and whispered in her ears, “Why don’t we go inside and have a talk, my little bird. I haven’t seen you for a whole week, and you made me think that I was forgotten!”

Asia’s cottage was very small but quite adequate for her to live in. Two rooms with a privy, kitchen and a fireplace suited the old woman just fine. Izaia took her favorite rocking chair while Asia was busy making herb tea. And a quick survey of the hut told Izaia that her teacher was, unfortunately, not present.

“Medihva is not here today?” Asia saw her disappointed face and decided to announce the good news. “Don’t worry, child. That young man promised to come this afternoon, so I think he will be here in no time.” Seeing Izaia’s relief, she offered the girl a cup of tea and sat down beside her.

“Now can you tell me what’s troubling you, my young bird?” She took a sip of her tea and pretended not to see Izaia’s astonished eyes and dropping jaw. “I knew something was wrong when I saw you. Don’t feel embarrassed, my little bird. Speak your mind freely and I will listen.”

[Gowpon]

Izaia looked into the old woman’s eyes and knew that she had to talk to her old friend. So she poured everything out, with tight-pursed lips. “Sometimes I really wish I can be a real bird. So I can fly away from Gaene and see the world.” She was silent for a while, then she looked down and whispered, “But even if I’m a bird, I would be a sparrow.” After that she said no more.

She was totally surprised to hear Asia’s chuckle.

“Oh my, little bird, do you consider yourself ugly?” The old woman let out another hearty laughter and put down her cup. “I looked just like you when I was young. Don’t worry, little sparrow. Go see the world, there are many races besides Angels that know how to respect beauty.” She set her hands on the young girl’s lap and smiled. “You have never left Gaene before, haven’t you?”

“No, and I wonder what was the world like beyond Gaene? You know a lot of things, Granny Asia. I know you do. You might have even been to outside of Angelica! To the Highlands! Granny, I have always wanted to see the Highlands.” Her eyes glowed with anticipation as she talked of her dream, but a sudden thought of the Demons silenced her.

“Granny, don’t you feel unsafe living near the border, so close to…Demonia? I was sort of worried about you.”

“Why, little bird, do you think Demons are dangerous? That they will come after an old woman like me?”

Izaia saw the amusement on her face and was bewildered. “But they are our enemies!” And she was surprised, again, by the old woman.

“Enemies? I wonder what was put into your little head.” Ignoring the girl’s stunned look, she moved on. “Do you think we are all nice and friendly just because we are called Angels? Of course not, and your sister is the best counterevidence. So why would you consider Demons as evil and dangerous? They are just different, my little bird. And wait…wait until you meet one…” Strangely her voice broke, and Izaia thought she saw moist in her eyes.

“There are many races different from us, Izaia, and don’t judge them by what they look like or what they are called.” Asia quickly regained control of herself and took a sip from her cup.

However, Izaia wasn’t totally satisfied. “But what about Vaesha Bridge? Isn’t it supposed to be keeping the Demon’s away from us?” She assumed that Asia knew about the truth, and she was not going to lose her chance to find out.

“Vaesha Bridge…it was a long story, my little bird. You have to know that we and Demons were allies before, at least for a certain amount of time. I was born right before the War started, and the two races fought side by side along with the Highlanders.”

“The War? Allies? I’ve never heard of such thing!” Izaia was dumbfounded. The Elders never said anything about that.

“Patience, child. Listen to my story and you will understand.” Asia took another sip of her tea and continued. “Terrible evil was unleashed by a northern kingdom beyond the Highlands. In such desperate situation, our people had to put away their prejudice and pride in order to survive. It was almost a thousand years ago, little bird, and the Elders were born during the end of the War, so it was no wonder that they don’t know what truly happened. Besides, there was another reason why the Elders were reluctant to let people know about what really occurred.”

Izaia was surprised that Asia had that faraway-look again on her face. It didn’t appear often, except when she recalled the past that happened long ago. She wanted to say something but decided to listen instead.

“During the War, an Angel and a Demon fell in love, which had never happened before.” She swallowed something in her throat and looked out from the window.
“And it was a long time ago.”

[Gowpon]

“They met in a small town in the Highlands where the grasp of War didn’t reach. Young they were, aching for love and passion. The world dimmed and glimmered as they laid eyes on each other. The thunder that soared flashed in their eyes shone with eternity and promises.

‘She was wearing a pale blue dress and a cloak made from the snow panther, and her green eyes sparkled like the stars. He managed to tell her through babbles and stutters that she was the fairy in his dream, and she was so beautiful, more beautiful than any other Angels and Demons he had ever seen. How he had praised her…he” She stopped abruptly and remained silent for a while before starting again. “He also said that…she was his…Vaesha.

‘ Their young love thrived during the War until it ended, because the evil had been defeated. But the victory held no joy in their hearts, for they had to return to their homeland. The roots of their romance had reached too deep to dig out, and it was too late for them to regret, She went back to Angelica with a broken heart, and lived in a clan on the border named Gaene. She thought that she would never see him again. But hope was what could not diminish in her aching heart, through the forest she went, waiting by the river every single day.

‘She saw him, looking at her with his loving violet eyes. His black hair flowing in the winds, and his face was pale and thin from heartache. Desperately he called out her name, and was responded with tears and joy. Wide was the Water of the Spirits, but not wide enough to stop their longing heart. He built a bridge to cross the river, it was a very beautiful bridge made with magic and love twining in the wood.

‘He named the bridge Vaesha. It means true love in Demon’s tongue. The days were sweet, but the lovers were soon unsatisfied. Long had they been together, hundreds of years perhaps, and they longed for children. Passion dimmed their senses, and they paid no heed to the hidden danger. Driven by her desire for children, she picked up her courage and revealed their secret love to the Elders. Naïve she was, hoping the Elders would approve their forbidden love; and foolish, thinking that her people would bless their marriage. She was wrong, of course. Therefore there was only one choice left—fled to the Highlands where they could live and raise their own family.

‘It was a moonless night. She packed everything and the only thing left to do was to go to the bridge and meet her love. But her own sister, who saw her as the shame of the family, betrayed her. She was told to go the Elders, for they had changed their mind about her request. Overjoyed she was, but when she got to the Hall of Elders, it was empty, and the doors were locked up immediately after she entered the room.’

‘No matter how she and begged and wailed, the doors would not open. And all she could think of was to get to the bridge and meet her love. Begging and crying broke her voice, and her fingernails were bloody after she clawed and pushed the door with frustration. After hours, she was tired and her hopes were gone.

‘When the day was finally broken, the doors were opened. She ran out and sped to the meeting place, but what left there for her to see, was only a bloody trail led to the other end of the bridge.”

[Gowpon]

“Did the Angels kill him?” Izaia was horrified. She never thought her people might do such thing as murdering, even to other races. And Granny Asia’s story was terrifying to her.

“She never saw him again.” Asia just stared into nothing, her face full of emotion, memories and thoughts. “And she decided to live apart from her people, away from them…away from her past.”

Surprisingly, Izaia continued Asia’s story. “Yes, and close to the border, because she still hoped that someday she would see him again, even after hundreds of years.” She watched Asia’s stunned expression without a slightest movement. The old woman sighed and sat down once again.

“How did you know that it was me, child?” She looked up wearily and again, had moist in her eyes.

“You never talked about your past, Granny, and I often wonder about it. And you don’t seem to be afraid of the Demons as others do. Even though I have not heard the story you just told me, no one but you could have described everything so vividly.” She regarded Asia in awe. The old woman’s romance was clearly a tragic love with no ending.

“You’re right, my little bird. I was the one who broke the sacred law of forbidden union.” She restrained herself again and relaxed in her chair. “So the Elders declared that no one should cross the bridge because of us. The law shall not be broken again.”

“But why didn’t they just destroy the bridge?” Izaia was still overwhelmed by the fact that her beloved Granny had done such an unbelievable deed when she was young.

“They couldn‘t. The love and magic constructed in the bridge were too strong for their magic to overcome. Since the Angels never bothered to cross the river, there wasn’t really any danger that anyone would violate the law.” Asia explained with a placid tongue. She stood up and walked over to her room, and moments later, she emerged with a piece of drawing carefully wrapped around with wool. Izaia loosen the strings and uncovered the piece of sketch.

It was Asia, standing on a beautiful bridge with her hair flowing in the winds. She looked much younger than she was now. Her eyes were smiling and her face was glowing with unspoken joy. There was a signature at the bottom.

Reone

So that was her lover’s name. And no doubt a Demon’s.

“Did you ever regret of what you have done??” Izaia looked up from the drawing and asked.

The old woman smiled, and it was a smile that held no grief. “No. I’ve never. Why, my bird, love is a wonderful thing. Go experience it and you shall understand. Do not feel bonded by what you consider responsible for, you are young and my days had already passed. Yet my heart desires to see the Highlands again, or even the places beyond. The world is huge, so why not fly, even if you are a sparrow? Fellymdor is for you to explore and surprises are waiting on the other end of the road.”

[Lady Melody]

:grin: I demand this story to be continued!!!:grin:

[Gowpon]

Chapter two Medihva


Thwack

“Ouch, that hurts!” Izaia let out a yelp and started rubbing her right leg where Medihva hit with the flat surface of his blade. He didn’t whack it very hard but the bruise still stung restlessly on her pride. And she bit her lips when she saw the mocking smiling on her teacher‘s face.

Damn, where did he get through my defense? Don’t worry, Mr. Pig head, I won’t let you do it again. She swore silently under her breath and was ready to fight again.

“You need more patience, Izaia, rushing will not do you any good.” Medihva balanced his staff perfectly with his palms, “Don’t misuse your energy of youngness.”

She was quick to retort and never forgot to add some sarcastic remarks, “Of course, Mr. Oldman, too forgetful to remember that he’s only 40 years older than me and talks like as if he‘s older than my father. Another word from your mouth will cost you a black eye, I guarantee it.”

Medihva grinned and started to circle her. His body slightly crouched down and his staff whirling around it. He was wearing his leather gear, as usual. And his long golden hair tied together with a leather thong. Izaia watched him from the corner of her eyes and shifted her weight casually whenever his position changed. As Medihva made the sign of his move, she pivoted and dashed to his right side to avoid his attack.

“I’m right here, Mr. Boaster.” She grinned and slashed covered Twilight down hard.

“Not so fast, kitty.” He only stepped back and countered her attack in such a relaxing manner that set Izaia on fire. She leaped forward with another scimitar, Aurora, already in play. Her attack was in a beautifully dancing manner that combined grace and agility. Medihva often found it hard to predict her next move, and was soon in a defensive situation. She was like a shadow that moves around. One second she was there, and next second there was no one.

“Take this!” She span around and swept him with her best move. The move was called Sundance since it was a dance-like combination of scimitars attack and martial arts. It was her pride. Sooner or later he’ll taste the sweetness of failure. Wonderful, isn‘t it? Izaia pivoted to change her attacking direction and landed a solid kick on his torso.

Gotcha

“Ouch! Have sympathy for old people!” He feigned a wince and sat down on a rock. Izaia peered at him with ultimate efforts trying to hide her smile. “You should be grateful that I didn’t target your pretty face. Emerald is going to kill me with a thousand needles if I did, and I assure you that.” She picked a seat beside him and burst out her laughter when she saw his dumbfounded expression.

“Emerald? What does this have to do with her? Are you out of your mind? Besides, I think she’ll probably prefer poisoning you. Well, at least that suits me and the rest of the fairytales.” He grinned and mumbled some complaint when Izaia smacked his back.

“I’m serous! I think she likes you, or else she wouldn’t be hanging around you any chances she got.” She put her head on his laps and relaxed. “By the way, you stink.”

[Gowpon]

Medihva ran his finger gingerly through her silvery hair, and his thoughts wandering as Izaia fell into deep slumber. He had known Izaia since she was born. However, he was probably more a friend and a comrade than a fatherly figure to her. She is getting better at her scimitars everyday. Soon I won’t be able to defeat her without tiring myself out. And today is a very good example. He sighed and set his eyes back on to Izaia’s sleeping feature, lightly caressing her rosy cheek. Besides, it’s hard to remain what you want to be--an uncle--when you are helplessly attracted. With extra care, he adjusted her position in his arms and held her within his embrace.

I doubt if she knows I love her, as a woman. A bitter smile emerged on his face as he thought of the possibility of she knowing his attraction. She needs more attention and confidence, and Emerald is taking them away from her day by day. His expression became somber when he recall all the hardships Izaia endured because of her sister. He had never approved Emerald. Watching the sisters grew made everything too clear to him of what they would become. He saw Emerald’s transformation into who she was now, and he was also painfully aware of Izaia’s struggle to find her own path.

She needs me. I know that her frailness and helplessness never emerge in front of the public, but I’m her friend and I love her. I will be there for her always. He brushed his lips lightly against her cheek, causing a few sleepy grumbles from Izaia.

“Wake up, kitty. It’s time to go in and have something in your belly. Granny Asia must be waiting for us.” He smoothed her hair and kissed her on the forehead.

Izaia yawned lazily, and then stretched her arms and legs. “How long had I been asleep?” She asked with half of her mind still wandering in her previous dream. “About an hour. Come on, I don’t want to miss Asia’s dinner!” Medihva gently push her hair away from her face. Izaia grinned and quickly fixed her wrinkled clothing. “Medi, what do we have tonight?” She asked curiously. Even though she knew Asia’s cooking was always fabulous, there wasn’t any harm asking. “Probably stew and some herb stuff with the rabbit I gave her today. Must be good, trust me.” He picked up his gear and headed toward the cottage not far away, and Izaia was right behind him. “Of course it will.” She replied playfully. “Only a person like you can come out with horrible food after cooking for hundreds of years!”

[Lady Melody]

keep it going!

[Dawnnamira Nerwen]

I really like it, Gowpon.

Please continue the story as soon as you can!

[Gowpon]

After the dinner, Medihva insisted that he would accompany her home despite her protest. Izaia wasn’t all together happy but she didn’t want to face her parents alone either. They were silent as they walking down the trail toward Gaene, and Izaia was busy digging her own thoughts.

I wonder what Asia wants to tell my parents? She is indeed, a very respected member among the clan, but Mother and Father never request anything from her, neither do they have private acquaintance. She tucked her hand inside her pocket to make sure that the letter was still there. And Medi isn’t going to give me a clue. Either he doesn’t know what is written or he is just playing stupid. A sly fox he is.

A smile appeared on her face as she thought of him--her mentor, friend and comrade. I’m damn lucky to have him on my side. Emerald could have kicked me out a long time ago if he didn’t oppose her so strongly. Suddenly a question came into her mind, she cocked her head to one side and was deep in concentration. Why is she so attracted to Medi anyway? He’s arrogant, over-confident and sly. There’re so many other secrets I know about him will set her screaming and running away like she’s on fire. However, he’s my best friend, I should be on his side. And Medi already knew enough about Emerald when she was 4 to make him run! Oh well, I have to admit that he’s pretty good looking in Angel’s standard, and he’s single, charming…only a little bit! Poor girl, smitten by his look. Izaia smirked wickedly and thought about all the secrets she knew. Well, it’s fun to see her acting stupid around him. She turned to look at her companion and got a curious look in return.

“What? Is there something on my face?” Medihva asked.

“No, I mean, of course not!” She hid her smile and kept up her pace. “Come on, you lazy fox! I’ve to get home before dark.”


Her parents and sister were around the kitchen table when they reached Izaia’s house. Looks like they’re still “discussing” the previous topic. How interesting. She winced as she saw a few torn places of her robe. Hope Emerald won’t notice.

Izaia’s parents were used this routine a long time ago, so they didn’t question her. Instead, they were glad that Medihva came along with their rebellious daughter. However, Emerald was totally different. She glared at her sister but tried to hide her hatred in Medihva’s presence. Izaia and Medihva exchanged a knowing look and took their seat with the family.

“Mother, Granny Asia has a message for you and Father.” She pulled out the letter from her pocket and placed it into her mother’s outreached palm. “And I had dinner there.” She bowed her head and stared at her laps, expecting the worst. Then she felt Medihva’s assuring hand covering hers. Thanks. She looked up and told him with her eyes.

“So, you want to go to the fair?” Her father lifted up one eyebrow and asked. And Izaia was dumbfounded. Fair? What fair? Then suddenly an idea came into her mind--Luna Fair. So this is what all about! Granny wants me to go to the fair, and not to be left behind to look after the house anymore! She was so excited and forgot to answer her father’s question. Her mother was impatient and asked her again. “Do you want to go? Asia said that you’re old enough and won’t make trouble. We can ask the neighbors to take care of the house while we are gone.” Looking at Medihva’s encouraging face, Izaia was finally capable of answering.

“Of course I’d like to go. Thank you Mother.” She was trembling with joy and surprise. Being out of Gaene had always been her wildest dreams, and she never thought her parent would ever bother to give her the opportunity to visit other clans in Angelica. Thank you, Granny Asia. She thanked her silently. I would never forget what you did for me today.

[Gowpon]

:grin: This one is a bit long...the next one will be short compared to this! ;) :p

[Gowpon]

Luna Fair was all Izaia could ever dream of--huge and crowded. At first, she often panicked when a wave of people moved toward her. But as the first day had passed, experience taught her that people in Luna were friendly and there were nothing to be afraid of. She would sometimes wander around on her own, watching people and learning from them as well. Their behavior was fascinating to her since she was usually away from the crowd in Gaene. However, the most exciting event of all was the martial tournament that were starting after the first week. Izaia was dying to find a way to demonstrate herself for years and would not let the chance slip away. She signed up secretly and found a clearing to sharpen her skills not far from the Fair site.

Izaia knew deep down inside that it was not going to easy being the only female in the tournament, but once her mind was set on it, there was no turning back. Everything was kept secret from her family, so it was going to be harder to practice in secrecy even with Medihva’s aid. He was busy and often found it difficult to spend time with Izaia, and he could do little to help her.

[Gowpon]

Izaia stacked her gear under a tree. Her face was grim and the usual cheerful steps had lost in her today. The previous encounter with her sister had pulled her down to despair. Emerald had found out about her enrollment. After a long sarcastic remark, Izaia was left alone to face her own rage and grief. What does she know about martial art? The only skills she has are embroidery and playing a specious pretty doll. She kicked a tiny stone out of her way and dumped herself on the ground.

Perhaps I should disguise myself as a boy. Izaia pondered. No, it’s going to be fun to let those arrogant fools know that it is a “girl” who defeats them. She smiled at the idea and picked up her gear to start practicing.

After a while of ordinary drills, Izaia became restless. Driven by boredom and a sense of revenge, she decided to polish a couple of her best moves. Standing still, she balanced her scimitars loosely and closed her eyes. She reached out for the tranquil center inside of her, feeling the internal flame with invisible sensors. Then all of a sudden she burst into motion. First she front flipped and pushed Aurora forward with Twilight followed in a blink of an eye. Then she ducked, rolled and kicked out her left leg without hesitation, she jumped to her feet and swept with her scimitars as she span forward. After a few seconds, she sheathed Aurora, pulled out her throwing knives, and sent them quivering in the nearest trunk in a flowing motion that was hard to catch.

“Wonderfully done, my kitty.” a hearty praise came from behind the randomly distributed rocks around the clearing. Izaia’s eyes snapped open and saw her mentor standing not far from the thrown knife.

“You could’ve got yourself killed, if I didn’t know that it was you.” She gave him a cold look which told him the seriousness. Izaia walked toward the tree trunk and pulled out her throwing knife, wiped it on her sleeve and tucked it back into the leather belt along with the others.

“What’s wrong, kitty? The tournament is tomorrow, don’t tire yourself out.” He held her in his arms, feeling her body stiffened. “Let’s have something really good for dinner. And you don‘t need to worry about paying anything since my business had gone well today.” Medihva looked into her eyes but couldn’t find a trace of joy he had expected, which became his concern. “Aren’t you excited?” He caressed her cheek, and was shocked when he felt the moist on her face. Then he knew what was wrong.

Emerald found out about the tournament.

Medihva held her while she sobbed silently in his arms. Why does Emerald always have to destroy all that Izaia has? He patted her back and tried to comfort her. Doesn’t she have enough of everything? And he knew very well that Izaia had to win the tournament. It was the only way for her to show her ability, her pride, which could not be taken away by anyone.

“Look at me, Iza, look at me. You have to go on..” He said, holding her shoulder with unbreakable force. “Show her what you can do. You cannot be broken! Don’t be discouraged by her words so easily. Listen to me.” Medihva put his fingers under her chin and made her look at him in the eyes. He lowered his head and gingerly kissed her tears away. Izaia was stunned, she never thought he would do something beyond the standard of “a friend”.

“Medi, I…I…” she staggered, but was interrupted by him.

“Don’t say a thing, kitty. I know that you’ve always wanted to go to the Highlands. How about a trip there after you win the tournament? I can get the passes. Alright with you?” He said genially with a sincere smile on his face that no one could reject.

Izaia was overjoyed. Her dream was coming true, which she never thought would. She sank deeply into Medihva’s embrace. “Thank you.” She smiled with tears in her eyes. “You have always been my friend.” But she didn’t see the faint disappointment that quickly passed through his eyes. “Sure I am.” He kissed her hair. “I’m always yours.”

[Lady Melody]

Keep it going! ;)

[Gowpon]

Oh! I love this part! lol

[Gowpon]

Here comes the fatty

Izaia sighed and sheathed her scimitars. Why do I have to fight him? He looks just like a farmer who happened to put down his plough five minutes before he came here. She bowed her head as the judges nodded, and got the salute back in return.

She was standing at a clearing surrounded by fences and some trees. A plump man with a long wooden staff in his hands was deliberately showing off his skills, which unfortunately failed to impress Izaia. What was he thinking? I can count how many layers of chins he has and knock him down at the same time with one hand tied behind my back. She sighed again, looking down at the dirt floor and stretched casually. And she could tell how surprised her opponent was when she addressed him.

¡§Listen, Fatty.¡¨ she checked the throwing knives under her shirt and starting to tie her hair up. ¡§Let¡¦s make this easy for you and me, alright?¡¨ She cast a sidelong glance at him and noticed that he wasn¡¦t taking her seriously. ¡§Look here, Fatty. I¡¦m sick of your clumsy staff so please stop this nonsense. Medi can do a hundred times better than you with it.¡¨ Izaia yawned and put her hands on her hips, waiting for his response.

The farmer was obviously dumbfounded by her dry remark. In his clan, people were often impressed by his skill in staff, and he couldn¡¦t understand why the ¡§little girl¡¨ standing in front of him wasn¡¦t scared at all. Even more, she was threatening him. He pondered for a while and decided that she was just too scared.

¡§It will be fine, lass. I won¡¦t hit you too hard. I promise.¡¨ He said it after a long thought and considered himself as courteous. And of course he failed again to notice the rolling eyes of the ¡§little girl¡¨.

Holy Sun Lord help me. She prayed silently. This man is stupider than I thought. Please let it be over soon.[/I]

As the starting bell rang, she simply stood there and stared at her opponent. ¡§Come on, let me see what you can do, Fatty.¡¨ She sneered at him, and was amused when the farmer flushed with anger.

¡§You asked for it, girl.¡¨ He said it with his hands clutching tightly around the staff. Izaia only responded with another yawn. She tucked her hand under her shirt and reached for a throwing knife. You are a goner, Fatty. She balanced the knife within her palm, and a quick glance at the farmer suggested that he had no clue of what was going to happen to him. Fine. Let¡¦s get it over with.

As the farmer stalked toward her, she raised her arm slightly and sent the knife to its target--the farmer¡¦s head.

Nicely done. I even impressed myself. Izaia leaned on a tree and waiting for the farmer to react.

He spent a few seconds figuring out what had just happened and froze as he realized that there¡¦s a knife quivering in the tree trunk on top of his head. He gasped and a few lock of hair came down as he shivered.

¡§P..ppp¡Kplease dddddon¡¦t hurrrrrt meeeee!¡¨ he stuttered as he fell to his knees. Izaia raised an eyebrow, walked toward him, plucked out her knife and turned to the opened-mouths judges.

¡§Next one, please.¡¨

[Gowpon]

Here comes an important character!! :o

[Gowpon]

She frowned. This guy looks¡Ktough. After a few days of scaring farmers and street fighters, it was quite refreshing for her to meet someone different. His feature was pretty much distinct compared to any Angels she had met. But the golden hair and gray eyes told people that there was no doubt in his identity.

¡§Your name.¡¨ She pulled out her scimitars and asked. And this was not a question, she demanded to know his name.

He was surprised, but smiled after he overcame his astonishment. He bowed deeply and said, ¡§Quenza, and I¡¦ve never been defeated.¡¨

Unfortunately his manner deeply annoyed Izaia. Therefore she replied with a smirk. ¡§And that was what all the arrogant fools I¡¦ve defeated had said.¡¨

Surprisingly he wasn¡¦t a bit aroused by her retort. He simply smiled gently and asked, ¡§And your name, my lady?¡¨ And that was when Izaia noticed that he had a slight accent. Perhaps he came for the border, too. Maybe¡Kclose to the Highlands. Very interesting. She looked up and down at him for a moment or so, and then replied him with a friendly grin.

¡§You¡¦ll know my name if you defeat me. Mr. Quenza.¡¨

¡§My pleasure.¡¨ he pulled out his long knives.

[Tar-Ancalimë]

Hey I like it. But all the funny ¡ and § are annoying. WHy did you put them in?

They fall in love right? And he's a demon right?

I really admire your courage in posting your story. I could never do that with any of mine.

[Gowpon]

no they didn't...lol :naughty: :cool:

He's just an important character, that's all...:naughty:

Chapter Three!!!

[Gowpon]

Chapter Three Quenza

Medihva nodded his head at the guard at the entrance. As he walked into the tournament field, he was astonished to see a crowd assembled around it. I hope that she is alright. Sun lord, please don’t let her get into a mob. She is just crazy sometimes. He prayed and quickly moved close to the platform where the fighters were engaged.

Certainly he didn’t like what he saw. Two fighters--one attacking with long knives an the other one swept in return with two scimitars. He didn’t recognize the man with long knives, but he could tell very well that the girl was Izaia even she was in a blur of motion. Izaia, look what trouble you got yourself into. He shook his head and smiled involuntarily. Medihva squeezed in and join the crowd. He put his hands on the fence and shouted.

“Show him what you got, kitty!”

He didn’t know if she heard it or not since the crowd was too clamorous. Medihva glanced around and saw people betting, arguing, or even fighting.

What a scene. He amused.

As he turned his attention back to the two fighters, Izaia was already gaining on her opponent. She was doing almost all her best moves despite the fact that the man with long knives was obviously holding back. Suddenly he made a few signs that rang the warning bell in Medihva’s heart.

“Watch out, Iza!”

The man suddenly attacked. A couple of unexpected moves sent Izaia backing off a few steps. Medihva heard her swore, hold her footing and counterattacked. After a few moments of close combating, their weapons pressed together in midair.

“Go kitty! Show him your Sundance.” Medihva lean over the fence and shouted at the top of his lungs. Surprising, Izaia turned to look at him with the clearest expression that said can you stop meddling my business? I’m having fun here. Go somewhere else and play. Which pretty much sent Medihva rubbing his nose and looked around to make sure that no one saw that her private message was passed on to him.

Fine, I’ll put my money on the other guy then. He turned around, squeezed through a bunch of people and found the man in charge.

“How’s it?”

“Oh, everyone’s on that man. I would do the same if I were you.” The man was short and bearded. He counted the money and made some marks on a piece of paper. “Poor girl, she is going to get crashed. That Quenza guy was last year’s Champion.”

Really? So that weird looking guy’s name is Quenza. Medihva tried to extend his neck to see what was going on through the crowd. Seems like little Iza is in big trouble. No wonder nobody put his money on her. Now I know how bad it is to be her friend.

He smirked, turned to the bearded man, and a gold coin appeared in his palm. Ignoring the dealer’s dropped jaw, Medihva placed it in his hand.

“This is on the girl, pal.”

[Gowpon]

Moon Goddess, this man is very annoying. At least he is to me right now. Would you be so kind to struck a lightening at him on the spot? I’ll be very appreciated. Izaia prayed as she looked into her opponent’s teasing eyes. Oh, please don’t get too excited, since there’s no chance that I’m going to be a nun in your shrine. Boring life doesn’t serve me well. All you need to do is to get this “Quenza” man out of my way.

Nearly biting off her lips, she found out that her strength would probably fail in a couple more seconds. This is no use! Izaia swore under her breath. Calm down, Izaia. You can do this.

She gathered her strength and pushed up her blades. As Quenza reacted with more strength in return, she backed away immediately and vanished in front of him. He lost his balance and stumbled forward. Izaia was at his side before he ever gained his footing.

A wicked smile appeared on her face. Time to rest for a while, Mr. Quenza.

She stretched out her left leg and tripped him. He landed solidly on his belly.

“You little…” He stopped in mid sentence when he saw Izaia backed away to let him get up.

“Do not be gratified. I let you get up just to make you fall down again.” She grinned.

“Mercy, lady. Have you ever heard of a famous proverb in my clan?” Strangely, Quenza just lay there and didn’t seem to be eager to get up.

“No.”

Now there’s a wicked grin on Quenza’s face. He suddenly hooked his left leg on Izaia’s ankle and pulled in.

And she landed hard.

“What goes around comes around.” Quenza laughed as he got to his feet.

Izaia narrowed her eyes. She looked at herself, who was helplessly on the ground, and then at Quenza.

“Indeed. What goes around comes around.” A knowing smile appeared on her face, and they laughed together. He reached out his arm to pull her up. Izaia grabbed it without hesitation and was immediately on her feet.

“Izaia.” She said. “My name is Izaia.”

“So I’ve earned your name, my beautiful young lady.”

Izaia’s face turned grim. Previous encounter with people gave her a clear idea that beauty has nothing to do with her, at least in Angelica. And Quenza noticed that, too. He seemed confused and asked politely, wanting to figure out where did he offend his opponent.

“Don’t you consider yourself beautiful? I do not know about people, but you are beautiful to me.”

Perhaps his sincerity touched her, or it was his strange behavior, which was very different from people she knew. She was relieved.

“Back on stage, sir.” She picked up her scimitars and pointed Aurora forward.

“As you wish.”

[Gowpon]

Izaia lunged her blades at him. She leaped up to the air, slashed down Twilight and ducked one of Quenza’s long knives. Then she did a few moves triggering Sundance. Sweeping her left hand with Aurora to the right, she whirled her body along with the force, and then back handed Twilight with her right hand in the next second as she step forward to enforce her attack. Quenza backed away, and was obviously stunned by her sudden move.

Don’t worry. This is just the beginning.

Her face was brightened with excitement, and her whole body was burning hotter with every blow. The audience was silent now. People watched their moves with bulging eyes and dropping jaws. To them, Izaia was just a dancing shadow, lurking around Quenza with tacit menace. Their breaths hold, and their fingers clutched together in whitening fists.

Snap

They roared as Izaia kicked Quenza’s head sideway. But her expression held no joy. She backed away instantly and crouched low, as a cautious tiger watching its cunning prey. Medihva saw it happen and was relieved. Patience, Izaia. You don’t know what trick he is playing. Snatch your reward when your claws are sharpened, kitty.

As Quenza turned his head back straight and looked at Izaia, she could see the striving fire soaring in his golden eyes. Suddenly she was afraid of him. Perhaps I ought to finish him off. Or could I? Pushing her inner doubt aside, she narrowed her eyes and wiped away the sweat dangling on her brow with the back of her hand. Come on, girl. Medihva’s going to laugh his jaw off if you back off at this moment. And what would Emerald say? The name of her sister burned on her pride relentlessly. She tightened her grip on the scimitars, lifted her chin and stared into Quenza’s eyes.

“Come.” she said. “And taste my blades.”

* * * * *

[Gowpon]

The woman behind the bar frowned as the man at table waved his hand. Long days and heavy chores had worn her out and broke her down, A once fair young girl was torn down to a husky looking woman. She filled a couple of mugs with ale and sent them into eager hands. Today her business had gone incredibly well, and probably was because of the tournament. The woman snorted as she over heard her customers talking about the fight. To her, everything going on in the ring was pretty much nonsense, and as long as it made her ales flow, she didn¡¦t care who won. Wiping her hands on her apron, she shooed a serving girl away as she saw her flirting at people. She grumbled a bit and moved back behind the bar as the door bell clank. Looking up, she saw three people coming in, and all of them dressed in light robes, just like most people in the common room. And she noticed, despite the dim light, that the weird looking young man had a big bruise on his forehead, and was busy talking to the ugly girl in front of him. He didn¡¦t look like the people around here, but his golden hair and eyes could not be mistaken as symbols of an Angelican. The good looking man led them to a table and beckoned to one of the serving girls.

¡§Good work you two! Stuffed up my pockets for sure!¡¨ Medihva ordered their dinner and bought their ales. ¡§Especially you, Izaia. We¡¦ll have to eat ourselves if you didn¡¦t win.¡¨ And he cast a teasing glance at Quenza, who grimaced and buried himself in his mug.

Izaia smiled sheepishly, took a sip and sank her head on the table. ¡§I¡¦m really tired, Medi, and I¡¦ve never fought so long before. A good night¡¦s sleep and a fabulous dinner to satisfy my groaning stomach will do.¡¨

¡§Sure, and don¡¦t you forget your reward!¡¨ Medihva winked at her playfully and thanked the waitress who delivered their dinner. Quenza raised an eyebrow, glanced sideway at Izaia and turned his attention to devouring his dinner.

Medihva took a spoonful of his stew, but his eyes were fixed on Quenza and his thoughts spun. Izaia lift her head up from her dinner and noticed Medihva¡¦s tapping finger on the table--a habit he had whenever he was considering outrageous ideas. She rolled her eyes, put her hands on her mug and grasped the handle loosely. Izaia put her lips on the edge of the mug and gulped down the ale. This is just not right. The dirty looking foamy top of her drink floated front and back as she blew them from different directions. Medi is scheming and I am so very sure. I hope we are going to the Highlands for good. She dipped her spoon back into her bowl and sucked it as she swallowed the stew. She smiled

The Highlands.

[Gowpon]

“I’ve decided.” Medihva finished the last of his stew and put down the spoon.

“Decided what?” Quenza asked with half of his mind.

Medihva tapped his fingers casually on the table with a playful smirk on his face. “I’ve decided that you will accompany us to the Highlands. What else do you expect, my friend?”

All Quenza could do was to stare at him. His eyes bulged so huge and Izaia was afraid that they might pop out from his eye sockets. And his mouth was dropped, which gave her the ultimate compulsion of mischief. But under Medihva’s stern gaze, she dared not do anything.

“But…why? I’m just…a stranger!”

Medihva gave him a knowing smile which suggest Izaia that he already thought about the answer.

“Oh, not a stranger anymore, especially after someone gave you that souvenir your forehead.” he pretended not to hear Izaia’s snicker and continued on. “Besides, it’s not a fieldtrip nor Sunday picnic, sir. I simply cannot guarantee the safety of Izaia and me. But with you, it will be much safer through the Woods of the Undead.” he paused to let the waitress took away their dishes. Then he turned to look at Quenza. Their gazes were locked together which formed a impenetrable wall that blocked Izaia out. Quenza’s face was solemn and could not be read; his lips pursed tight. And Medihva was just the opposite, his shoulder relaxed thoroughly and his arms were placed easily on the armrest.

After a couple of suffocating moments. Quenza averted his eyes.

“I will accompany you. If that is what you wished for. But I have to inform you that I am not alone.” his gaze shift from Medihva to Izaia, and then back to the former again. “My brother is waiting for me at the edge of Woods of the Undead, and I will have to meet with my uncle at the Highlands once we arrive.”

Izaia’s breath caught as he mentioned the deadly forest. “Your brother? Alone in the Woods of the Undead? How could you leave him there?” She was totally bewildered. The Woods of the Undead was the most dangerous area around the northern border, but it was also the only way to the Highlands. Highway men and robbers were only the mortal threats besides the unspoken evil that lurked in the darkest place of the woods. People in Angelica avoided the ancient pass and it was no longer used since the War ended hundreds of years ago. Therefore the Highlands and Angelica had ceased contact for centuries.

But Quenza merely replied with a mysterious smile. “Don’t worry about him.” And seeing Medihva’s questioning glance only broadened his grin. “I have to apologize, Izaia, for I had lied to you. I have been defeated. By the very hands of my brother.”

[Dawnnamira Nerwen]

Oh, this is great!!! Keep it up!!! :thumbs:

[Gowpon]

“What should I say to my parents? Bye Mother and Father, I’m off?” Izaia frowned as she fastened her saddlebag. “No, it won’t do.” Her belongings were few, but her heart was heavy.

She and Quenza were in the stable which Medihva indicated. Medihva had gone away to collect all their supplies after making arrangement for their horses, and without his shelter, Izaia couldn’t help but started worrying about her parents’ reaction.

“Why are you so afraid? This is your life, not theirs.” Quenza cast her a questioning glance and busy himself by saddling his horse.

Izaia leaned on her horse with her eyes closed. “Easy for you to say, Quenza. I… I just can’t believe that I’m actually leaving this place. The place where I grew up, the place I’m so familiar with.” She let out a sigh. “But I think there is nothing special for me to remember here. Besides, I don’t think anyone will remember me either.”

Quenza cocked his head. He felt the depression in her voice and did not like what he heard. He walked over to her put his hand on her shoulder. He said, “Do not let your heart be sunken, my friend. There is a saying in my clan, ‘It is not the chains that bond you, it is you who cling to them.’ Feel free and enjoy your life, Izaia. I have done many outrageous deeds before, and you haven’t experience the least of them. Let the bird out of its cage, and it will fly. So why not fly, my friend, when you have time?”

Izaia nodded with tears in her eyes. She let out a relieved sigh and hugged her friend. “How can you be so wise, and yet so young?” she asked as she wiped away her tears.

“It is not me who is wise. It is my uncle, for he taught me all these, and he used to comfort my brother and I all the time.” And a warm smile appeared on his face as he thought of his uncle. “He is very old and charming. And he is just like my parents since they died when I was a child. Don’t worry, you will see him soon enough. He awaits us at the Highlands, and it is long since he had every traveled out of Demonia since the…” He stopped abruptly as he saw the stunned expression on Izaia’s face. And then he realized what he had just said.

“Demonia…so you are a Demon!.” Izaia gasped. Her trembling hands covered over her mouth, and she couldn’t find the right word to respond. “But…you look like one of us! How can this be possible?” She backed a few steps, and was totally lost in her horror.

Quenza’s smile was bitter as he turned away. “It was nothing…just some invention of my uncle. Eye drops to change the color of my eyes and some dyes to cover my dark hair. Nothing fancy.” He looked down and averted his eyes. “So…since you know my secret. I shall not accompany you.” He started to unfasten his saddle bags. “Now if you excuse me, lady.”

Izaia stood there watching him with a pounding heart, but after a while, as her heart calmed, she walked toward him and put her hand on his to stop him.

“No, please do not leave me.” She gathered her courage and looked into Quenza’s surprised eyes. “You are my friend, and one of the few friends I’m lucky to have in my life. So no one’s going to change that, even the Moon Goddess! I do not care if you are a Angel or a Demon, and I won’t care even if you are a pig as long as you are my friend. And I still owe you something, don‘t I?” She smiled as she pointed at his bruise. “Now we are even.”

Quenza could not believe what he had heard. He opened his mouth, as if he wanted to say something, but gave up as he sank into his friend’s embrace.

[Gowpon]

“Do you think that we should tell him?” Izaia asked uncertainly as she peeped at Medihva’s direction.

Quenza pondered for a while and replied, “To be honest, I don’t think he will be surprised even if you tell him my true identity. Our friend is a person with unfathomable wits, and I assume that he already knew, but decided to leave that to me.” He got a hold on the reins and urged his mount forward as Izaia did the same. “And I think that is also why he decided to let me come--to show you the world. He might have been to the Highlands already in his early youth, and perhaps he had seen a Demon before, therefore he’s not unaccustomed to my race.”

Izaia nodded her agreement. “That’s probably right. Medihva always pretends that he knows nothing. And that is why I have to attempt to strangle him once a month in order to have him spit out all the secrets he holds!”

Quenza laughed at the idea. His thoughts drifted to his beloved brother and the desire of reunion burned on his heart. Coming to Angelica and tending the Fair was too outrageous for his older brother to bear. So the two parted at the border of the cursed Woods and promised to meet each other again before the Fair ends.

I miss him…oh of course I do. He is the only brother I have. Quenza smiled as the frigid face came into his mind. He just doesn’t know how to show his love and emotion, and that’s all. After all he had endured for me, how can I blame him?

************************************************
As they closed up to the northern border, the desolation became more obvious. There wasn’t any clan near the border and individual farmers were very much apart from each other. They could no longer ask for shelter from the farms, and were often riding in the drizzling rains. Izaia knew that Medihva expected her to say something, perhaps complain, since her fantasies of adventures were frustrated by the weather. But she said nothing because her pride would not let her.

My pride. She tightened her grip on the reins as the thunder roared above her head. Is all I have left.

[Gowpon]

“Let’s stop and camp.” Quenza pulled his horse to a halt. He shook his head to let the water on his hood drip to the ground. “It is almost dark, and we are too close to the Woods. Who knows what comes out after the night falls.”

Medihva looked around and nodded. “Agree. I think there might be some watches to mark the border, perhaps not far from here. Spread out and search.”

Izaia obeyed silently and urged her horse forward. She pushed away the branches that wandered into her path. Wiping away the rain on her face, Izaia couldn’t help thinking that the forest was coming to life. It has an air of darkness. She pulled her hood closer for comfort. The trees, they have been poisoned. The sap that runs through their veins is deadly to the touch. What are the creatures that dwell beyond the shadows? Medihva said that they were the ancient creatures of evil. Twisted by magic and other things. Izaia shuddered. She shut away those unnerving thoughts and moved on.

“There is a hut!” She yelled, trying to get her companions’ attention. But after a long pause, she realized that she was alone, she had gone too far since the group spread out, and she had no idea where they were at that very moment. The silence around her began to press on her, suffocating her. “There is a hut!” She opened her mouth to shout again, but this time without much force. She trembled, and drops of rain fell from her cloak. “I’m not afraid.” A barely audible voice came out from her quivering lips. The cold soaked into her despite the waterproofed cloak.

Where in Fellymdor can they possibly go? God! She swore soundlessly and decided to take a look at the cottage she had spotted.

It was not far away from her, standing firmly in a clearing with all the rain and wind blasting its fragile-looking walls. The flag poll in the yard pointed out that it was a border watch, which was probably deserted a long time ago. She dismounted as she saw the dim light coming out from the window and penetrating the cold rain. Izaia blinked away the water in her eyes. I’d better go take a look. Seems like somebody is already in there. But who can it be? I don’t think anyone will want to stuck in a deserted area like this.

She carefully knocked on the door, afraid that the cottage would fall apart by her own hands. But the thoughts of warming welcome and the fire that were waiting for her encouraged her, she stubbornly stood her ground and resumed the knocking. However, the reply came unexpectedly.

“Go away.” A cold voice slipped through the door and hit her right in the face.

“What…did you say?” She whispered her disbelief.

“I said, go away.” The freezing voice spoke out again, taking away the remain warmth Izaia with it. And that was when she decided that she have had enough.

This man, whoever it is, is DOOMED! How dare he say this to me!
Now, no longer cold and trembling, Izaia was hot within her newborn fury. She banged on the door with her fists and shouted on the top of her lungs.

“I’m going to come in whether you like it or not!” And she did. She gathered all of her strength and bumped against the door. “Here I come! You selfish little man!”

Unfortunately, the door was not locked.

And Izaia fell hard to the ground.

[Gowpon]

CHAPTER THREE ENDS!lol :naughty: :cool: :grin: :p

[Pil]

:o :elfeek: :o

YOU CAN'T LEAVE IT THERE! lol

Oh well...i'll just have to order you to continue won't i?! *hands on hips....pil scaring gowpon*! roflmao

Really...you should keep going...v.good...looking forward to the next installment... :read: :thumbs:

[Gowpon]

Ok Pil...don't you worry...I'm just taking time to proof read it!!

I'll post fast after I'm done with several sections!!lol

[Gowpon]

Chapter Four Zeon

What am I doing…?

Izaia shut her eyes, unwilling to acknowledge her pitiful situation. Lying on her stomach and with her arms and legs stretched out in a pathetically laughable way, she sighed and thanked the Moon Goddess that her companions were not present as she rushed into her embarrassment.

She lifted her head slightly and saw a man, the man who refused to gave her entrance into the cottage. I should strangle him. He could’ve at least lock the door! Izaia narrowed her eyes as her thoughts spun. But a sudden cold ran up her spine and set her into an unstoppable shudder as she laid eyes on the stranger.

The man was sitting in a chair in front of the fire place and his back was facing her. Izaia could only see his long dark hair. There was a cold and unspeakable aura around him that made people back off. But Izaia was not going to back off, not this time.
She got on her knees and cleared her throat.

“I’m sorry to intrude your nice little hiding place, Mr. ColdheartedStranger. But it’s raining out there! And you’re not holding some sort of secret society ritual that isn’t allowed to be interrupted! Wouldn’t it be wonderful to share this little hut with some would-be-friends?” She stood up straight and leaned on to the doorframe. Her arms were crossed and her face red with anger.

“I’d reckon that you are not that fat so you would occupy the hole room, right?” And his silence enraged her further more.
“Say something!” She took a step toward him, dripping hair and soaked clothes were long forgotten. “Don’t you know that it’s freezing out there?”

She waited for his reply but got none. Izaia felt a rush of blood swarmed into her head and her eyes temporarily went black because of unbearable anger. But suddenly the stranger spoke with the very same coldness she had heard.

“I know it is cold out there.” he said. “But I have no extra chair.”

What is his problem? Izaia covered her face with her hands. Such a bad excuse.

“It’s fine.” The words came out hard and slow. “I can sit on the floor. Thank you.” She stayed at the same position, waiting for his answer. And it took a while before he said anything.

“But I’m waiting for someone, someone very important. I don’t have time for a stranger.” His words were spoken with haste and impatience. Izaia raised an eyebrow, and a smirk appeared on the corner of her mouth.

“Sir, I believe you don’t have any extra chairs for him either.” And the smirk broadened as she saw his shoulders tensed. “And talking about him, I have to tell you that I have, probably to your despair, bested him in the tournament.”


He jumped in his chair.

The mysterious man stood up, turned around and faced Izaia.

She would never forget the feelings that shot through her veins when she saw him. She trembled uncontrollably and found herself sitting on the floor as her shaky legs gave away. The man was clearly a Demon, but his features were more distinct than Quenza’s even in the room that was only dimly lit by the fireplace.

He is so…not Angel! Izaia stared at him in mere astonishment. Unlike any Angelican male’s usual golden skin, he is pale beyond her imagination. His shoulder length dark hair made his face even paler by contrast. And when she looked into his eyes, she could see herself looking back from those dark pupils. His hair and eyes were not completely black, but more like dark purplish turquoise. The color was complex and almost indescribable to Izaia. For a moment, she could not avert her eyes from his alluring feature.

So this is probably what Quenza looks like without the disguise. But he is not so cold, not so pale like this. Izaia shuddered again as the weird feeling started to climb up her spine. She felt the hair on her neck began to stand on its end. Stop it! Be brave! But before a word could came out from her lips, the frigid voice filled the room with chill once again.

“Watch what you are saying, young girl. You do not know whom you are talking to.” He’s eyes were unreadable and his face a mask. But for a second Izaia thought she saw a slightest trace of concern passes through those dark eyes. His lips parted a bit, but drew back as if he was afraid. Then finally he spoke out again.

“And…what was it again? About the tournament.”

Izaia saw the cautious in his eyes and started to relax.

Such a pretender. She thought amusingly. Obviously he cares a great deal but doesn’t want to show. Fine, just like Medihva, and I’ve got tons of experience in dealing with this.

She cleared her throat. “Sorry to inform you this, but I have to go, and my friends might be looking for me. Thank you for your kindness but I don’t want to be discourteous since you do not want me here. So long!” Then she started walking across the clearing in front of the cottage. Pulling her hood close, she couldn’t help but hoping that the stranger would jump into her trap. And much to her relief, a hesitated voice called out behind her.

“Wait! I…I would like to invite you in. And perhaps we can find your friends together…later.”

Izaia could barely suppress her evil grin.

“Oh, I would like to.”

****

[Gowpon]

Hey guys (especially Pil. who was mad at me:naughty: )
What do you think of "THE GUY" 's name? (Also the name of the chapter)

I couldn't think of other names...so if you think there's a cool name for Izaia's would-be guy, just tell me ok?:thumbs:

[Pil]

Hmmm...think up a word combination...and ask Wilwarin to translate it to elvish...v.nice names they give...

Thanks for updating it! :thumbs: :)

[Gowpon]

Finally, he is showing some courtesy towards a lady. Izaia walked through the doorway and watched as the Demon closed the door. Then a sudden doubt came into her mind.

“Sir, may I ask you…why didn’t you lock the door since you want no anyone to intrude?” She asked.

The Demon cast her a glance and sat back down on his chair.

“It doesn’t have a lock.”

Izaia thought she was going to faint.

“Thank you.” She replied reflexively.

Izaia settled herself on the floor beside the Demon. She sighed with pleasure as the warmth of fire enclosed around her. The dampness still lingered in her clothes but she felt much more comfortable in a shelter. She curled up in a ball against the wall and clasped her body within the cloak.

“A nice little place you have here.” She teased.

“Tell me about him.” He stirred the fireplace without looking at her, and seemed to be avoiding any possible eye contact.

“You mean Quenza?” Izaia cocked her head to the side and smiled. “ I met him in the tournament. He is a nice guy, not like his brother.”
The Demon’s head snapped toward her and his eyes held intensity. Ignoring the implied comment, he tried to hold back the eagerness in his voice.

“Did he win the tournament? Where is he right now? And how come you know that we are brothers?”

Izaia was very much aware of the anticipation in his tone, but still, she decided to tell him the truth. She shifted her position to make herself more comfortable, and then replied.

“One question at a time, pal. As I said before, I bested him. I’m the champion this year, and it was a good match.” She felt a rising compassion for this stranger as he looked away. Izaia tucked her head between her knees, trying to say something in order to make him feel better.

“He is a good fighter, and one of the best that I’ve ever met.” Oh well, he’s the second opponent I had after Medihva. But still, I’m telling the truth! Izaia oppressed the sense of guilt as she spoke, and was surprised to hear the Demon’s sudden reply.

“Of course he is! I taught him everything! He is very talented.” The Demon could not hide the pride in his voice. “No one in the Clan could defeat him”

“You are wrong about that.” Izaia grinned. She put her hands over the fireplace and enjoyed the warm sensation that spread over her fingertips. “He’s not your match”

“He…he told you about me?” The anticipation rose again, and this time Izaia was not going to let him down. She smiled.

“Yes he did. He just couldn’t quit talking about you. My brother this my brother that…he’s very fond of you. You’re damn lucky to have a little brother like that, admiring you to his very bones.”

to be continued

[Gowpon]

The Demon’s stern expression fell apart for a moment and his coldness faltered. His eyelids slightly dropped downward and his lips parted a bit. Izaia observed him for a while, wondering about the brothers, but then her thoughts wavered and Emerald’s image suddenly emerged into her head without warning.

“You are damn lucky.” She whispered, not expecting anyone to hear it. But the Demon’s keen ears were beyond her. He lifted his head and caught the lost that was hidden in her delicate features

“Why are you so sad?” The Demon asked. His voice was much less frigid and held such comforting softness in there that made Izaia want to burst into tears.

“Oh, it’s pretty simple. My sister doesn’t like me, and everyone loves her.” Izaia didn’t notice the stiff tone in her voice and kept on. “Don’t you think I care. I’m already used to it…it’s no big deal to me.” She buried her head deep between her knees, not wanting to let her own emotion leak to outside.

“Why do you envy me then, if you do not care?” He poked the fire again.

“I do not envy you!” she retorted with such force that startled them both. Izaia, feeling ashamed, turned her head to the side. “I am just…I don’t know.” She bit her lips. “Perhaps I want something that was never there. I’ve wanted it so much I would ignore the cost. But I’ll never have it, and it’s the way thing goes.” She felt something wet on her face but decided to leave it be. She could no longer suppress her resentment and grief.

“Do you know what she said when I bid her goodbye? She told me to never come back! Even my parents wished me to have a good time. I just don’t understand…what did I ever do wrong?” Her voice broke a little. Izaia was quick to recognize her out burst and was also fast to restrain herself once more.

“I’m sorry.” she murmured. Izaia swallowed hard and forced a smile. “Your brother and my friend are still outside in the forest, and we should go find them.”

The Demon nodded his agreement. He added in some dry wood to the fire to make sure that it wouldn’t die out.

“My brother has no knowledge of this place. I found it after we parted, and I don’t think it will be easily found. Where is your horse?” He got hold of his own cloak and moved toward the door. And for the first time Izaia realized how tall he is. Angelicans, even male, were not so tall. Medihva was the tallest among her people and Quenza was about the same height. The Demon was even taller. Izaia felt the presence of the Demon towering over her, shadowing the lights from her. But surprisingly she experience no discomfort and uneasiness, instead, she felt protected and sheltered.

“I tied it under a tree.” She replied.

“Good. I’ll get mine. Wait for me.” He walked out to the rain without hesitation.
***

[Pil]

:thumbs: :o

Thanx for continuing so quickly...either you write fast or you've already got it and are spooning it out in chunks...lol

It's getting better and better...keep it up... :)

[Gowpon]

Thanks!!

:blush:

[Gowpon]

“Iza, do you feel it?” Medihva whispered. He and Izaia huddled together near the fire place. He was soaked with rain and was shivering involuntarily.

“Yes.” Izaia murmured. “I feel it. The coldness around him.” She moved closer, trying to gain more warmth from the fire and her friend. “I thought your energy was drained, whence does it come back?”

Medihva grinned with feigned innocence. “Curiosity reigns supreme, Iza. Can’t you see? That guy almost push me into the mud when he saw me with his precious little brother. I was lucky that he didn’t caught me talking to Quenza!”

Izaia rolled her eyes. “Stop acting stupid. He just cares a lot for Quenza, that’s all. And I‘d love to see you in a mud pond, so please let me have a moment of peace to mourn for the my loss of opportunity.” She put her arms around her legs and fell silent.

Medihva narrowed his eyes and his brows furrowed. He leaned over and whispered in her ear. “Listen, Iza. I don’t want you to get too close to him. I think he is dangerous, and the air, the aura around him…so aloof and cold. You felt it too, didn’t you? I’m serious. I felt as if he was wearing a mask or some sort…so unpredictable. I thought he would be like Quenza, but he was totally the opposite! Just stay away from him, Iza.”

Izaia looked away and her sight unfocused. Her lips parted as if going to form a yes, but as her eyes drifted to the brothers, she bit her lips and shook her head.

“He’s not what you claimed to be, Medi. Indeed he is like that on the surface, but I think…there’s more about him that you don’t know, and no one ever bothers to discover. Look how he treats his brother. Quenza often says that despite how his brother tries to cover it, he still feels his caring for him. Can’t you see the hidden love under the mask? He could only show his feelings by protecting his brother. Aloof he seems to be, but he just doesn‘t know the right way to express.”

Medihva was stunned. He never thought Izaia would oppose him for a stranger.

“Little Izaia, are you defending him?” His voice rose a bit as a sense of doubt passed through his mind.

“No I‘m not.” she frowned, unwilling to fight her friend. “I’m just telling you what I think of him.”

Medihva shift his position with uneasiness. “But you sound as if you know him. I don’t want anyone to hurt you, Iza, especially a stranger.”

Izaia turned her head, not wanting to face her friend. She closed her eyes wearily and replied. “I do feel like I know him. He reminds me of myself in many ways…not in appearance, but in something else, something I don’t know.” Izaia smiled without knowing as she thought about the embarrassing encounter they had. Medihva caught that smile and a dark cloud shrouded his mind. A twinge of jealousy wormed its way up to his defenseless heart and stung him with no warning. His gnashed his teeth and looked away.

[Gowpon]

Sorry guys...got kinda stuck here...can't decide his name yet...:(

Any thought would be nice!!

[Pil]

Deathon...like i pmd...i think it sounds fitting for him...:)....what does it actually mean...? :huh:

P.S. Gowpon... I noticed your siggie is too long...you could just get rid of the space...then it'd be cool...thanks. :thumbs: ;) :p

[Gowpon]

It's Daethon, not Deathon. It sounds like DIE-son...

It means "Great shadow" in elvish...Wilwarin's work u know...lol Does that fit? You think it's better than "Zeon"? Tar told me that it means "Sun" in native American tongue.

So Daethon and Zeon...which?:grin:

I can't decide!!!!mecry

[Gowpon]

The rain had died down an hour after the arrival of Medihva and Quenza. The only trace of storm left was the dripping water from the eaves and dangling leaves. Standing alone in the middle of the clearing was a silvery silhouette. Sparkles glittered as the moonlight shone on Izaia’s hair. She stared into the silent woods, her body unmoved against the cold, letting the placid night seeped slowly into her troubled mind. Lost in her thoughts, Izaia paid no heed to the prowling shadows under the trees and bushes. But a sudden disturbance in the still air woke her from her private moment.

“Who’s there?” She asked without raising her voice, for she already knew who lay concealed in the shadows.

“It’s late. You should retire. The others had already gone to rest.”

“What is there, behind the trees that dare not come?” She ignored his question, neither did he expect any answers.

“Not the birds, they do not sing in this forest. They are creatures of the night, lady. Beware of them, since they do not fear the light as people think they do.” He moved closer, towering over Izaia. With her back facing the Demon, Izaia was unaware of his expression, but she was certain that he held none. She pulled her cloak tighter around her body as the chill surrounded her once more.

“Then what do they fear?” She turned her shoulder and tilted her neck slightly to observe him. “Why don’t they advance, if they are not held back by the warmth of light?” And she blinked as she saw a cold smile appeared on the corner of his mouth, thinking she had mistaken.

“Not of the light, of course.” The smile disappeared before Izaia ever noticed. “They are afraid of me.”

The soft bells rang from Izaia’s lips as she laughed. Her body trembled slightly and the silver wave flowed. She reached out a hand to settle her glittering lock back behind the pointed ears, and as her sound of merriment ceased, she turned around fully and faced the Demon.

“You’re indeed humorous. Why would those dark creatures fear you? A single Demon roaming in the woods was no challenge to them.” She didn’t look at him in the eyes, the dark, turquoise stars that shone inside were to much for her to take. “They could have devoured us long ago.”

The Demon’s face was a mask with unknown thought hidden below, and he showed no trace of anger. He merely replied with courtesy.

“You know not my power, young girl. Go inside and rest. We set out tomorrow before the sun rises.”

***

[Gowpon]

Izaia stirred in her blanket, mumbled something unintelligible and fell back into deep slumber. She was totally unaware of the looming shadow beside her. The fire cracked, flickered and wavered, threatening to die out. A few twigs were thrown into it and was devoured instantly. The shadow moved aside and let the warmth reached out to her. Izaia purred softly as the heat tear the coldness apart. She rolled sideway and settled like a little woolen ball.

A silver woolen ball. He mused as his eyes rested on her sleeping figure. So peaceful and beautiful. She seems so different when she is sleeping. She is like a child without the scorns she wore during the day. Daethon retrieved his attention on the sleeping Angel and his thoughts wandered. He looked down and saw his hands, which were Pale, thin and bony. Disgusted, he turned away from the lifeless hands and stared into the fire. The fire, which had been fed well, danced with luring temptation.

He caressed the sears on his wrists with painful memory still lingered in the darkest place of his mind. The physical tortures had ended a long time ago, but the unbearable pain dwelled deep in the shadow’s lair, unwilling to let go. The snake-like scars twisted and hissed out their silent incantation. Feeling bewitched, Daethon pressed on the sears and his thoughts flew back through the flow of time.


Pain. So much pain. Despite the clubs that were landing hard on his back, he hang on. He circled the little boy in his arms protectively. His own vulnerability laughing at him with every beat, and knocking out his breath. He ran, but the boys, with their evil grins and swinging clubs, tailed behind and starting gaining on them. He heard his little brother crying in his arms, and his heart also pounded with fear, threatening to stop at any second. But with his mother’s last words ringing in his ears, how could he abandon the little hope he had?

Daethon spotted a tiny crack between two walls, leading to another hiding place. He squeezed his little brother inside. Ignoring the child’s wail and protest, he turned around and confronted their enemy. Then everything went black.

The only thing that he remembered was the burning coal and metal, relentless laughter and chains that bounded him. It was the will that saved him. The will to survive, and to see his brother again.

Daethon broke away from the trance. Then the sudden twinge on his wrists made him aware of his hard grip. He sighed and sit back in his chair. The shadows outside the window grew, and their eyeless figure floated under the trees with menacing moves. Leaves wavered and rustled.

The silent night wore on.

[Gowpon]

End of CHAPTER FOUR!!!!!!lol lol lol

[Pil]

I'm so glad you made that choice for the name. It's very fititng.

*sigh* we can now see the truth behind the pain that is evident in Daethon's character...it's so sad...and extremely well written...i look forward to seeing how he deals with this task he has appointed himself...and how Izaia may be drawn into it...

V. good Gowpon :) :read: :thumbs:

[Dawnnamira Nerwen]

OH, this is really good. I love the depth of the characters, the pain you can feel coming from Daethon. Sends shivers down my spine.

Waiting for the rest,
Dawn

[Gowpon]

Oh guys,thanx. I'll also glad that my writing is getting better and better...this really helps you know!lol

I came to U.S. a year ago...still learning English...:grin: Trying to get better.:thumbs:

I didn't expect to get support from here...since it's a non-Tolkien fic. I just wanted to practice my writing. Thanx anyways! ;)

[Gowpon]

Chapter Five The Woods of the Undead

The morning was not broken yet, and the air was still chill to the touch, but a few scattered rays had escaped through the gap between the trees. The shadows were gone to the deeper part of the forest, rested and ready to strike. Izaia sniffed in the morning breeze as she opened the door, and that was when an enchanting voice made its way into her ears. She braced herself and was overwhelmed by fear. She opened her mouth to call for help but no sound came out. It pursued her to the clearing, bending itself on the tree top and surrounded her with its alluring chant.

Izaia’s fear was soon replaced by curiosity. Her steps were halting and full of hesitation, but all her senses were lost as the incantation grew stronger. She closed in upon the branches that were reaching out to her with withering arms, and the frost covering them shimmered like crystal scales. Blackened roots had wormed their way deep into the poisoned earth, and their trunks were marked with dark runes of curses. Cracking and snapping, the trees beckoned for her to come closer.

Izaia’s eyes were half shut and her fingers trembled numbly as she approached the source of the magical chanting. She reached out her right arm while the wicked woods laughed with triumph. Their leaves rustled and their branches shook. But then, a mighty voice called out and broke the evil spell.

“Be gone, you foolish tricksters! How dare you invade my guest? Count her out as your prey. Be gone!”

The hideous devils clamored with dismay, their shadows a blur of darkness. The chanting ceased and they released the Angel from their grip with a disappointed sigh. Izaia’s body tensed and then collapsed without a sound, but a pair of lean, strong arms caught her before she hit the ground.

“Silly girl.” He shook his head as he gently picked her up. “Have to keep an eye on you.” He murmured and carefully tucked her fragile body inside his cloak.

***
To be continued...

[Gowpon]

:mmmm: Got kinda stuck at the beginning of Chap 5...changed it several times.

Hope it'll get better!:p

[Gowpon]

The accusation came without warning, and it was as sharp and hurtful as Daethon had expected.

“What have you done to her, Demon?” Medihva’s face was red with anger as he saw Izaia’s pallid face inside Daethon’s cloak. “Give her to me!”

Daethon’s face was an expressionless mask despite the scornful words that were attacking him ruthlessly. All his words of explanation retreated and an invisible shield grown. His pale face showed no trace of annoyance, which infuriate his accuser further more. He placed Izaia into Medihva’s arms without a word and walked away with Quenza following him anxiously.


“Why didn’t you defend yourself? I knew it wasn’t your doing!” Quenza stopped him and bended his shoulder over. Unwilling he was, to see his brother and his friend quarrel, but he was more concerned about the fact that his brother discarded the sense of defending himself.

But his brother merely looked at him with his cold eyes, as if he was just an outsider. “Do you think I care? That Angel was blind, and no sense could’ve been talked into him. Now let go of me.”

Quenza was not so easily discouraged, and he was used to his brother’s hard words long ago. Instead of releasing his holding, he advanced further more. “You could’ve at least tried, my brother, what was the harm? And why did you say that Medihva was blind? He’s a man with wits.”

Daethon smiled, but it held no merriment, only scorn. He reached out a hand and unclasped his brother’s grip on his shoulder. “Couldn’t you see? Love blinded him. Even if he had the wits you claimed, they were gone already, driven away by foolish emotions. He would not have believed me even if I explained to him. A fool he was!”

Quenza stood there, his body trembled with anger and indignation. He could not believe what his beloved brother had said. Daethon had been his hero, someone he looked up to since his childhood, but now, the reality just slapped him right in the face. He felt his face hot with shame, and his eyes smeared by watering tears.

“But don’t you love me, Daeth? Or am I just your responsibility, a burden?” He whispered with broken voice.

Silence beset them. Quenza lowered his head, his lips bitten. With a sigh, he walked away. He could not see his brother’s outreached arm of protest nor his tearing heart.

***

[Gowpon]

He is just a child.

Daethon rode alone in the silent woods. After the incident in the morning, he excused himself by scouting ahead. With Izaia still unconscious, he felt the tension in the cottage too suffocating for him. Besides, his brother’s tearful words still made his heart ache and twinge.

He didn’t even know what he was talking about. He has no idea what I’ve done for him.

But the love for his brother had swept away any discontented feeling he happened to have. He smiled as he thought of his brother and all the wonderful times they had together. Quenza was still a child when they lost their parents, and it was years later until their uncle found them. His little brother was all he had in the family, if it counted as one. He cherished him and protected him, loved him and treasured him. He knew how Quenza admired him, seeing him as his big brother and father at the same time, and by no means would he want to shatter that.

Fate plays on us all the time. And uncle is always right about life. He amused.

Daethon closed his eyes and concentrated on the forests around him. The quiet woods were dimly lightened by the dawn, but he still sensed the furtive commotion in the trees. He felt the hunger of the shadows and their desire for Izaia. The reason was unclear to him, and he didn’t know why the girl was their targeted prey. Izaia might be seen as the weak link in the group by the devils, but with a Demon as powerful as Daethon around, the risk was obviously too great.

Why are they so drawn to her? He pondered. She is unlikely to be a weak girl who squeaks with fear when facing evil. See how she laughed at me! A sudden current of warmth swept into his unprotected heart as he thought of the Angel and left him dumbfounded. He touched his left chest with hesitating hand, his eyes puzzled. Right now anyone would have laughed out loud at his baffled expression, but since there was no one, he did not care.

Daethon pressed his hand on his heart, and his fingers trembled uncontrollably along with his perplexed mind. It was apparent that the mighty Demon was totally confused by his own emotion, and he was also frightened by the unknown sentiment, which took over his heart. Feeling vulnerable, the furious Demon tried to push it aside but failed. Fear and panic soon seized him effortlessly as he realized that all the sudden his power became useless against the strange feeling. His lips quivered and he tried to distract himself from the fear, but then his thought drifted, again, helplessly to the silvery Angel he had encountered. He felted the warmth swept over him again and was overwhelmed. Surprisingly, this time he felt more comfortable, even more, he was starting to enjoy it.

A silly grin appeared on his face without being noticed.

***
To be continued

[Pil]

notworthy Big up this story...it rules! One of my favs at the mo...it doesn't matter that it's non lotr...it's a bit refreshing to be truthful...a whole new group of characters...places and creatures...keep it up! I loved that chapter! :thumbs: :read: notworthy :p

[Gowpon]

Thanks Pil, I spent so much time on it yesterday!lol
I'm very very bad at writing love stories...no actual experience you know. So if you guys have any thing want me to know about, just tell me ok?roflmao

[Ranger]

Okay I just started reading all this today got to page four expecting some more to read and...Nothing! Please update SOON*

[Gowpon]

Oh Ranger, I believe that I update fast enought...or I hope:naughty:

Hey I'm still a high school student! And a dieing sophomore in CA...

But my writing is ahead of my posting, need time to double check everything!!lol And I kinda have difficulties in Chap 5 cuz lots and lots and lots of conflicts are going on...and I don't know where the story is going to lead...:cool:

[Ranger]

You're doing great so far*

[Dawnnamira Nerwen]

I agree, you are doing a great job! We're just impatient to find out what's going to happen, Aren't we?

[Pil]

Dear lord yes! Gowpon...i sympathise...you have done extremely well for a fellow student to be writing so much...i'm sorry to say that school work has removed most of the time i had to write 'Emelin'... :huh: :(

Don't worry about where the story will lead...i doesn't matter how long it takes to reach a conclusion...every word is brilliant and i will enjoy reading your writing always! :)

[Gowpon]

Thanks Pil!

Izaia frowned. She hadn’t expected such question from Quenza, and it had indeed caught her off guard. “What are you talking about? You are the one who babbles about him all the time, why are you asking me this?”

Quenza merely responded with a shrug. “Oh, you don’t need to be embarrassed, Izaia. He had gone ahead scouting long ago, so there’s no worry about being ‘accidentally’ overheard. I just want to know how you think about him.”

There was something in his tone that caught her attention, the wound, perhaps. She watched him intensely, looking for any signs from his dispirited face. “He is kind.” She replied. “It is hard to say, my friend, but this is how I feel about him. Are all Demons like him? He’s not very…sociable.”

“I can only say that he’s rather different from my kind.” Quenza answered. “Demons are rather passionate about life. For them, Daeth is nothing but a crow in a flock of doves.” His voice lacked the enthusiasm it used to have, and Izaia noticed the spiritless look in his eyes as he mentioned his brother’s name.

She rolled up her blankets and stuffed it in her pack. They were ready to leave the hut as soon as Daethon returned, and Medihva was taking care of their mounts. They were the only people at the clearing at that moment.

“Did you have a fight with him? “ Seeing Quenza’s silent nod, she comprehended his unwillingness to talk about his brother. “I feel that he needs something. Something that he used to hold dear but was now lost. He doesn’t even know that he is looking for it. Just like me, I am searching for something I don’t know. And that is why I come to this journey—to find out what I truly wanted, and my destiny” She paused, seeing no one except Quenza was around, than continued. “I’m also a crow in Angelica, and I do not think that the doves are much better than the crows. Medi means a lot to me, but there is something he cannot give me, or I dare not take it from him.”

The last statement intrigued Quenza. He cocked his head sideways and spoke out his confusion.

“But I thought he loved you, if love was what you seek.” A teasing smile hung on his face as he spoke. Izaia’s frown broke and she smacked Quenza lightly on the back.

“Oh my Sun Lord, is that all you care about, my romance?” Her heart lightened with joy of friendship as her friend laughed and tried to dodge her forceless blow, but a second thought sank her heart right into the abyss.

Medi…how can I repay you for all the wonderful things you have done for me?

“I’m his friend, and that’s all.” she replied. “And don’t you go mumbling about this to anyone.” Izaia cast a warning glance at Quenza’s innocent grin. She became painfully aware of Quenza’s mischievous nature since their departure from Luna. Under the skin of a gentleman, he was just like a half-grown lad.

Maybe it’s because his brother is overprotective toward him, and he didn’t even know how Daethon pampers him!

But suddenly Quenza’s pushed her away from the doorway and toward a log in a shade, his moves were with haste and his eyes talked of stealth. He motioned her to sit on the half rotten log and himself beside her.

“What are you doing?” Izaia was puzzled.

Quenza glanced around the clearing and then pull her head close. It was very clear that he was fairly embarrassed himself, for his face was pink and his ears were hot red. He hesitated for a while before whispering into her delicate ears.

“Do…do you…like…I mean are you attracted…you know what I mean…to my…bb…brother?”

To Quenza’s ultimate surprise, Izaia blushed.

***

[Gowpon]

Daethon let the reins went loosely. He was humming some unfamiliar tunes without even knowing. It was something he hadn’t done for decades, and it was also unknown to him that he was singing a love melody. The only songs he had sung were his little brother’s bedtime lullaby, but somehow the popular love song made its way into his memory, and now the joy of love awakened it and poured life into him. The horse, who also felt the unusual merriment, turned into a lively trot as they closed in upon the small cottage. The long abandoned trail was mainly covered by grass and mysterious creepers. Little puddles made by last night’s rain scattered randomly alone the path, and the dewdrops that fell from the leaves left small ripples which quieted down within a blink of an eye. Daethon halted the horse as an abrupt idea came into his mind. He bowed his head and looked into his reflection.

He saw a pale, thin face with dark turquoise hair tied behind. Feeling discouraged a bit, he sighed.

Gawky and unattractive, nothing remarkable. What do I expect anyway? Once a crow, always a crow.

Suddenly his keen and pointed ears twitched lightly as a familiar voice penetrated the mirky woods. The sounds were unclear and rather muffled by the distance, but the Angel’s voice flowed like heavenly music in his ears. Daethon dismounted with pounding hearts and tiptoed to the closest hiding place. He didn’t want to be discourteous by eavesdropping, however his curiosity got hold of him and he simply could not control himself. He pushed aside the bushes that were blocking his view, and he held his breath as he peeked through the leaves, hoping to see his little Angel.

But the following scene struck him like a thunder bolt, piercing him from head to toe. Instead of his loving Angel alone, he saw his brother with his hands tight around her shoulder, their heads together and whispering like intimate lovers. Quenza’s face was lit with excitement and his smiles bright as the burning sun. Compared to Quenza, Izaia seemed rather embarrassed and sheepish. She tilted her head timidly and her lips parted, but he could not hear what she said. His brother replied something in return loudly and it hit Daethon hard, tearing his heart once more.

“Don’t be shy, Izaia, love is a wonderful thing!” Quenza claimed, and his voice was enthusiastic and full of passion. “There’s nothing wrong with love, believe me, you’re going to enjoy every moment. I felt the attraction going on already. It’s going to be fabulous!” Not waiting for Izaia’s answer, he jumped up from the log and start dancing with her with silvery laughter. Izaia, apparently confused and abashed, smiled and danced with him with tacit joy.

The scene stabbed Daethon ferociously. Grief-stricken, he stood there and watched the pair with disbelief and trembling body. His heart shattered with the sound of his brother’s laugher echoing in the woods, and the sorrow was too much for him to bear. He could no longer hear their conversation, his sights blackened and he staggered to the nearest tree. His breath was short and shallow and he slipped to the ground. Again, he looked into the small puddle, but with dull, lifeless eyes. Now his face had become entirely wan and ghostly, and the flames in his eyes were gone. Curled up against the tree, the heart-broken Demon wailed with silent anguish.

***
To be continued

[Ranger]

Oh! You can't leave it there! Poor Daethon.

[Dawnnamira Nerwen]

NO, you can't! It's against forum rules! I'll have to report you to Pil and Orc! ;) :p

NOT!!!

[Gowpon]

...??? What happened???lol lol

Don't worry, he'll get over it!:naughty:

Just kidding! A story nees some ups and downs you know!:cool: :evil:

[Gowpon]

Izaia peeped at Daethon’s direction. The Demon had not talked to her since they left the cottage, and he seemed to be more frigid than he was before. His face was again, an expressionless mask, and the chill aura surrounded him once more. Izaia remembered the toxic chanting and the tumultuous devils, and she also recalled the warm embrace and gentle comfort of her savior. She did not have the chance to express her gratitude to him, and Quenza had totally muddled her mind with their previous conversation.

She plucked at Quenza’s sleeves as he rode beside her. “Quenza!” she hissed. “Do you think I should go thank him? I’m such a coward that I don’t even dare go near him.”

Quenza gave her a mischievous grin. He placed an assuring hand on her shoulder, trying to pass some courage to his friend. “Don’t worry, Izaia, you are no coward. Go to him when he is alone while we stop to rest. Since he is always alone, you will have plenty of opportunity.”

Izaia nodded and blushed with Quenza chuckling beside her. Her rosy cheek, tender lips and sapphire eyes shone with lovely grace while soft light tumbled down her silvery hair and enlivened the gloomy forest. Daethon drew a difficult breath as he watched her with the corner of his eyes, his hands tightened around the reins until his knuckles turned white. He mumbled something and turned away, but soon discovered that he had lost control of himself long ago, for he simply could not distract his eyes from her.

No, stop, you fool. She is someone else’s, and never yours. And that “someone” is unfortunately, your brother. He thought bitterly, and then turned his attention to Quenza, who rode side by side with Izaia and was playing jokes on her, making her giggle.

See how he made her laugh, you can never do that. You only make her flinch and tremble with fear.

“Daethon…?” A voice rose beside him, full of uncertainty and doubt. The Demon, feeling embarrassed, shook himself out from the trance. He snapped around and saw it was Medihva who addressed his name. His eyes narrowed instantly and the cold disguise emerged.

“What is it you want, Angel?” His words were spoke with sarcasm. Too many painful experiences with people made him defensive and scornful. But Medihva’s eyes held no enmity and his face full of shame.

“Daethon, I want to say that I regret for what I had said in the morning, and I wish to say I’m sorry.” He ignored Daethon’s plain hostility, his face was solemn and his tone filled with sincerity.

The Demon’s mind spun. He wanted to make peace with the Angel, but all the previous mistreatment made him hesitate. Too many people had use the same cheat to gain his trust, only to hurt him again. The long time ago memories still stung him years later, and he could no longer trust. Doubt passed through his dark eyes and was caught by Medihva, who sighed and attempted once more.

“Will you not accept my humble apology? I meant you no harm, and I didn’t want any to come to Izaia either. I care for her as much as you care for your brother.”

It was the last word that moved the Demon. A trace of sudden warmth slipped through his turquoise eyes, and a glimpse was enough for Medihva, who nodded with gratitude and rode away.

[Gowpon]

Guys, I have to say that I might not be able to update frequently around these days...tests and activities coming up...but i'll try my best ok?

(Basically I'm not very happy with this time's update, but since I've already changed a couple of times I don't really want to let it hang there.:p )

[Gowpon]

Izaia pushed away a branch off her face. They were now deep within the Woods of the Undead, the most shunned place in Angelica. Creepers and overgrown plants crawled in their path with pungent dampness besetting them. Neither birds nor living creature dwell within the forest, and the sun was concealed by the dense branches and leaves, which locked the coldness inside. She soon found it laborious to breathe as they closed in upon the heart of the forest, and every move seemed to be straining her strength. The shadows grew ever stronger as the warmth of light left them gradually, prowling through the dusky thickets. Sometimes she even heard them whispering to her, murmuring their enticement, and the evil in the air wafted with the thickening mist.

She was unaware of the lost of sight. Alertness came to her until she could hardly see Quenza, who was supposed to be leading her way. The light dimmed and the mirky mist surrounded her, pressing out her last sense of security. She called out to her companions but they were nowhere to be seen. A swarm of darkness wormed their way toward her while panic struck her and she endeavored to calm. Her mount stamped its feet with fright, only added its own to hers.

And it was when she realized that she was completely alone in the dark, helpless and vulnerable.

The tentacles were the first thing she felt. The mutated roots brandished their slimy truculence before it struck. She shuddered and kicked with fear, but the tickling whiskers fastened tightly around her ankle despite her desperate struggle, and with a sudden force, the creature pulled Izaia off her mount. The horse was immediately devoured without a last sound. Izaia, heart pounding with dread, unsheathed her scimitars and slashed at her unseen opponent with haste. The poisonous sap spattered and hissed as it hit the ground. Feeling more calmed with her weapons in hand, Izaia found her balance and backed away, but more and more snapping tentacles came, menacing to take her life. She sensed her strength was running out at a speedy rate, and the darkness advanced once more with greater evil joining in the attack.

Damn, I don’t want to end up in this filthy little swamp.

She split open an approaching root, which was full with toxic thorns. Not far away, a painful scream of an unknown source echoed. Instant later, before Izaia could draw a second breath, a strong whip circled around her waist swiftly from the back and dragged her in.

The evil triumphed.

***
To be continued...

[Gowpon]

I like this much better!;) :grin: lol

[Gowpon]

Ok...there're a few problems...

1. I haven't decide the one who's going to rescue her yet. Basically I want D to go cuz then they'll have some time together...:blush: :naughty:

2. The name of Chapter 6...can't come out with anything...my brain is strained...I want something romantic you know...:naughty: :naughty: :naughty: