Chap 19- The long waited end.

Somewhere, out of the reach of anything mortal rested a Soul. The Soul had left the mortal world to became a powerful entity. It had arrived there a long, long time ago. Or was it really that long ago? It wasn't sure. As such things, like time or light and darkness did not exist. But there The Soul rested, unaware of anything. It had grown weary, as it was always covered by the silence and nothingness. It faintly remembered that it once held a grand purpose, but it had long since forgotten what that was.

Then, out of nowhere, a small light came to be.

And what a very young light it truly was. So small, soft and warm. Had The Soul owned a body, it would had shed tears of light for this young one. It had been so long... This wasn't the first light that it had seen, Soul realised. Once there had been thousands, even millions of lights around it! The Soul had forgotten what they were, or why it felt such a warmth from them. But the lights had slowly left, first one by one, then in groups, until there had been only two left. Soul had mourned the death of these last lights. It had missed their warmth.

But now this small light had appeared. It was small, fragile and all alone. And yet. Yet it was warmer and happier than those many, many others The Soul had seen. Soul decided that it wouldn't let this light die. It started to follow the light around, watched as it flew around in the nothingness. This light grew slowly, and as it grew, The Soul started seeing things. First it saw the colours of the universe around it. Then the stars and planets, their shapes and sizes. And finally, it saw a small human girl's face. The Soul had felt such a happiness bubbling inside it when it observed those amber eyes for the very first time. The Soul laughed. It was rough, barely audible and rather pathetic laugh, but still. The Soul couldn't remember the last time it had heard anything, so the laugh sounded very welcoming to it. It had been alone in the nothingness for far too long. But now The Soul was surrounded by space and stars. It was like this little light had brought The Soul into a whole new universe. There was a day and a night- there was a time called now and there was a time that was then. There were sounds and there was The small light.

The Soul still watched as The small light grew. The light had, without realising it, shown The Soul something amazing. It had shown the world that The soul had once left behind. It remembered the beautiful fields of grass and the constant whispering of the Earth Mother. She and The Moon had had children didn't they? Ah, yes, the beautiful children of the night, the Flowers of the Moon.

The Soul started to recall what it had forgotten.

Soul remembered things it didn't even know it had forgotten. The great battle between the evil souls and the beings that had once been animals, but were now humans. Yes, it remembered the confusing animals, that wanted to become humans. Those greedy and ungrateful creatures had wanted to be more than they were, and without realising it, they were the ones that gave their evil thoughts, fears and desires a form.*

It remembered the time when it had still been called as a Firefly. The first and the last Firefly, that had stood against the darkness with it's light.

It had once fought those evil creatures along with it's sisters and brothers, but alas, they could not win. Finally, when The Soul was the only one left, the Earth Mother had called the proud wolves from Paradise to aid them. It recalled almost fondly how it had fought with those mighty animals, and won. And how baffled it had once been, by how they had gifted the ungrateful animals with their human forms, when it was clear that they did not deserve such a present. It cost them their home in the paradise, but they hadn't minded. The had grown old, and decided that they would leave the Paradise to their own children and to The Soul's children. The Soul had also grown tired, and knew it was time to join it's sisters and brothers. So it said goodbyes to the wolves, it's true family.

Before it's time came however, The Soul gave away it's own light. It gave it to a young human child, and taught how to control it. So they would pass the power and knowledge down to their own children. So that the ones to receive it in the future, could help new wolves to return to their original home.

But when The Soul left the earth, the Death told that Soul's sisters and brothers had already returned to the earth. The Soul missed it's sisters and brothers, but itself could not return, it was too tired. So it stayed, and guarded the gates of the Paradise, so that only the wolves would enter it. But then something had taken away The Soul's memories, only leaving a feeling of emptiness. After a century or so, the lights had came to be. And after they ceased, The soul met it's little savior.

When the little light met the Child of the Moon, (The Soul may have guided the poor maiden a little. It had given the maiden time to search by herself, but it turned out that she couldn't find the little light. So The Soul gave them a little push to the right direction.) The Soul could have cried. The little light wasn't alone anymore! The Soul was relieved, but not satisfied. This little light deserved to have a family, like The Soul itself had had when it still had a physical form. There was very little that The Soul could do*, so to prepare the little light, it showed her dreams. Dreams of the chosen wolves that would someday claim the Paradise that their ancestors left for them. When the little light finally won her true family to stay by her side, The Soul smiled so brightly that it's own light paled next to it.

Soul had followed the small light through all of her adventures, shared her sadness and happiness, and it had grown attached to this small but bright human. Wolves had taken care of her, and The Soul was happy for them. When the human of the cursed bloodline appeared, The Soul could only sigh. It never understood why the Moon and Earth Mother placed that curse; it only created more chaos and sorrow. As for the human woman who summoned The Soul to create her own paradise... Well, The Soul agreed with it's little light. The female was a disaster. It was only right to end her. The Soul had been livid after discovering the place where so many of it's lights had lost their lives. They were it's children, and these humans had hurt, no, KILLED them for generations!

So much happened to the little light, and while it wasn't surprised that it's last child died for her friends and family, it felt grieve setting in once again. This light... The soul had sworn to protect this one! And what good did that do? Nothing. Even thought her death had it's own meaning, this could had been avoided! The First Firefly's self-control finally gave in under the pressure of rage- It had had enough of this. So with that, The Soul, The First Firefly gently caught pieces of it's little one's light and held those dim rays of light close to itself. And then, The soul summoned it's voice, that had been forgotten and unused for quite sometime.

"MOON! SUN! DEATH AND EARTH MOTHER! MEET ME AT ONCE!" The First Firefly's voice was grand and powerful, and though even the animals of earth couldn't hear it, they covered under the great powers anger.

"My dear Firefly, what is that matters to you now, my child?" The First glared at the Earth Mother who had, of course, arrived first. She had sworn to never dismissed her child again, after disappointing the Firefly during the great battle.

"Yhes*, old friend. What is it? Unless yhou have been sleeping for the last centuryh, yhou'd know I'm rather busyh with the whole world getting reborn and such." The Death's breathy voice complained. As an astral body formed from the clouds and star dust, The First rolled it's eyes. Death just had to bee so dramatic all the time.

"Firefly? What is it that you wish to tell us?" The Sun's voice was pleasant, and had it not been as livid as it was, maybe they could have calmed The Firefly merely with their voice. The Moon came soon enough, looking just as sorrowful as The First felt. No wonder, they had both lost their dear children. The First felt the said child's light rays flickering, fighting to stay in existence.

"I believe all four of you know just fine why I called." While The First wasn't nearly the strongest force present, all four flinced. "WHY? Why did you seal me off?! You could have asked me to help with my children when the humanity started to ruin their world! They could have been saved, had you called for my help. My children may have been small compared to you, but they were smart and capable. Because of you, I HAD TO WATCH AS THEY SUFFERED, WITHOUT KNOWING WHO THEY WERE! My children trusted in me, and I disappointed them. They called for my help, oh, how often they asked for me to help, and I did nothing. I could do nothing. You lied to them; you stole my children and made them forget me."

The Sun had never looked so dim, or The Moon so small as they did now. Death was finally serious, understanding it's friends pain. None of them could bear to see their humans getting hurt, and he was the one that had to take their souls, so they could be reborn. Death actually hadn't been part of Firefly's sealing. If he had known, he would have helped his friend.

Earth Mother was ashamed. She was the one who had sealed her child away; afraid that Firefly's children power would consume them. If they would have been tainted, they could have taken over. The last war had left her uncertain. She had been sure that the tainted souls would come to their senses but... No such thing happened. So, to avoid such tragedy, she let Firefly's children perish. But instead, it were her own children who destroyed their home. And she couldn't understand why!

"Earth Mother, did you ever answer when your children asked for your help? Or did you grow too used to their praises to care anymore after they stopped?" Earth Mother couldn't lie; The First's words hurt.

"I believe I own you my child... It was not in my intensions to cause such a tragedy."

The Sun bowed their head, asking for forgiveness. They were the oldest of the present beings, and they had seen many many things. After the Firefly had joined them, The Sun believed that it didn't have any purpose. So, to let the tired being rest, they helped to seal it. Now they saw that it was a mistake. "I also am feeling apologetic, my friend. I forget, that despite being the youngest, you understand much more than we think."

The First nodded to the two of them, accepting their apologies but not forgiving them. These two were far over their heads, and The Firefly would sort them out after this mess was somehow handled. It turned to look at The Moon. They had always understood one another the best, for the Firefly had always protected The Moon's flowers and wolves, both of which The Moon was very protective of. The First had already forgiven Moon, for they had suffered just as it had. The Moon hadn't really wanted to cause trouble. It only wanted to let it's friend rest a while, so that they could keep protecting their children. But The Moon got arrogant, and thought that they would truly rule the humans as they pleased.

The Death on the other hand...

"I trulyh tried my friend. I tried. I didn't want to take them, especially not yhour yhoungest. But now... Now theyh can have another start. Another tryh." The First and Death had become good friends over the time they spent together. After all, it was easier to like than hate someone when you were stuck with for all eternity. The First sighed.

"I hope for your own sake that this will happen." The First stared at the newly born earth with concern. The last light had gotten one thing wrong. The Paradise hadn't been truly opened, but the earth had been blessed with another change. The First could still give it's children the help and love they deseved. "Death, could you call some of my children here?"

The Death chuckled. "Of course. Anyhthing for yhou." And with that, Death opened their hand, and let a small army of dim silver lights form in front of them. They were small as peddles compared to all of the ancient beings around them. The First reached it's hand towards them, and gathered them close.

"My children, you will be given a new change. I want you to live and act to protect the new human race. You shall help the children of the Moon, and my successor to reach the paradise, when the time is right." The First waited till all of them twinkled with acceptance, and smiled. "Thank you. And now I, the First Firefly and the guardian of Paradise's gates, will now once again give you all a part of my light and power, so you can once again be born as my children." The Sun, The Moon, The Earth Mother and The Death all nodded, and the lights became brighter as the spell and so many destinies were set on stone.

And so, when the Death reached for the lights, The First Firefly could only place a small kiss on it's youngest, and whispered goodbye to them. It watched with sad eyes as the lights floated down on the earth, and it could only hope that this time things would turn out right.

~O~

First POV. Hotaru

You ever feel like you could be replaced by anyone?

I do. Actually, more like I KNOW I'm replaceable. At least to my mother. If it was up to her, I wouldn't exist. But we rarely get what we want right? Yeah, my thoughts exactly. And before you get all dramatic and jump into thinking that I'm some street rat living with an abusive mother without any real parental figure, I am fine. Sure, my mother doesn't care that much and she doesn't bother with hiding her hate towards me, but she is civil. She even pretends to care when we are in public. Awesome, right? (Note the sarcasms people. Note. The. Sarcasms.)

And hey, it doesn't all suck. My mother works for a huge company and she is the CEO's right hand. Because of her work position, she tents to get pretty much public attention. So, when she was pregnant, everyone knew. And if she got me taken care off? Media would work it's wonders and snap! Bad image over night. Goodbye work bonuses, job and that nice raising support that my Father sends to her every month.

Oh, right, I haven't said anything about him yet. Okay, so my Father is Inago Hozumi, and he is a magician who travels around the world with his sister, Choko Hozumi, who is a musician and song writer. They get paid rather well for their performances, and well. The money Father sends to mother so she would raise me, is one of the few things that mother likes about me. Anyway, as I said, he travels around, and only rarely comes back to me and mother. But when he does get here, he always comes to see me. Not mother, just me. And that's nice. Makes me feel less like an accident.

You see, when my mother and Father started their... "Thing", they only med a couple of times. And even then they were always one-night-kind of things, while Father was in town. One night they were a little too into one another, and I just kind of happened. They hadn't expected anything from their small affair. They were merely curious of one another. So yeah, I was a pretty big surprise. Mother actually had been cheating on her fiancée- so she wanted to do an abort, in case it would ever be found out who my real father was. But Father had begged her to keep me, while knowing that neither of them would be really raising me. By the time I could walk, even I knew how bizzare their relationship had been. But he really wanted to have me. So, my mother went along with my Father's whim. Probably just to have a slightly bigger wallet. (But as far as the public knows, Inago Hozumi is not my father. As that would be a rather nasty thing for my mother's image. Lucky thing for her, her now-husband's skull is thick as a brick wall. He doesn't suspect a thing. He really thinks that I'm their kid. But he doesn't mind or question why mother insists on having me living away from them. Starting to see why mother likes the guy? He is easy as fuck to be played around with. And since I am not seen in public often, no one really buys my existence any attention.)

I really like Father and aunt Choko. It helps that they actually listen to me when I tell them about my dreams and my thoughts about them- without even thinking about sending me to a shrink. Unlike mother. She has sent me to meet more therapist and psychologists than I care to remember. And every single time I get a new, interesting diagnoses. Some say that I am indeed in just fine state, while others say that I am more twisted than a screwed bolt and, my favorite, some have said that I am just a small child desperately wishing for my mother's attention. Not that I can blame them; without Father and aunt Choko I would have definitely gone crazy by now. Since I can remember, I have had these weird dreams. They always start with me running, trying to catch a-

"Miranda Grace La Mariposa, stop dreaming and help me pack up these groceries!" I grimace at the horrendous thing, that's supposed to be my name, and turn to stare blankly at my mother. She is dressed in her way-too-tight-black-skirt and suit jacket, that makes her look so out of place in this everyday grocery store. Her short sand blond hair is cut no taller than two and half centimetres, and her mud brown eyes are poring into me. Blue high heels are tapping against the floor impatiently, and I just nod, as I get to work. We are buying me food for the week, since mother is leaving the country for a business trip and Father will be staying with me for the week. 'I can't wait!'

We are half the way out, when mother curses. "Damn it, I'm supposed to be at the airport in half an hour. Can you get home by yourself? Your Father will be there by evening." My eyes get a bit of their light back, and I nod. Mother couldn't care less if I actually made it back or not, but there are people around, so just leaving me here without a word is a bad move. But what I am interested in, is that I get to take the long way now! I get to go through my favorite "short cuts" and walk in the rain!

As soon as mother is out of sight, I grin like a maniac and let out a small whoop!

'Finally alone! I thought she would never leave!' I start to hum a little as I make my way out of the store. I get to the entrance, bulling my dark brown hood up. I try my best to get all of my hair in there, so they would stay dry. I finger my messy, dark brown bags for few seconds, letting a thoughtful expression fall onto my face. Mother always says that I look like a spitting image of my Father, or even aunt, and I agree. I have Father's dark brown hair, that looks more like a main, and we are both pretty tall. We even have the same amber eyes! Thought, mine have a little bit of gold in them. Choko and I have share small ears, and slightly sharper eyes. I think the only thing I got from mother, is my light skin. Even that is more than few shades darker than hers, thanks to darker skin tones that run in both of my parents' genepools. My mother is half American and half Mexican, and she is unnaturally light skinned for someone who takes as much sun as she does. (I actually thought as kid that she was a mutated vampire.) And Father... Well, he is a bit of everything. I think he mentioned something about being 1/4 Japanese?

'Eh, who cares. They both travel enough to cover every country in the world anyway...'

I step out to the street and start to make my way through the crowds. Skies are grey, and there is a gradually shower coming down. Not too hard, but you get wet here pretty fast anyway. Happens every spring. I stuff my hands into my jacket's pockets, with my shopping bag hanging from the crook of my arm. My slightly baggy jeans get damp in no time, but my feet are still dry. (Heavens thank you for small miracles like that!)

I hear a street performer playing and singing under some random cover, and I stop to listen. I think he is good. While he does have a little rough voice, his lyrics are strange and he is tapping his guitar while playing. Still, he just kind of makes me relax.

"- You want glory, I need nothing, and it's coming in between us!

People are born with,

People are born without,

Some people have,

And others want,

What some go without,

Some people live free,

Some people just want more,

As for me I, got all that I need!*"

Maybe it was the melody, maybe the rhythm, maybe the lyrics. Anyway, whatever it is that makes me stay, I'm still standing there. A smile slips to my face at when he gets lost into the song and I start to sing along when he hits the chorus. People walk past, some giving us weird looks, some drop the artist some coins and some join in on us. At the end of it, there are just a handful of us watching, but we all clap, and he gives us a playful bow. He takes his things and leaves. Everyone else start to move forward again, but I stand still. My gaze locked onto his retreating back.

I stare with warm eyes at his green and orange, smoky aura, that blazes around his figure like fire. I feel how it pulses with passion and want to perform. It moves along with him, showing me things that I wouldn't know otherwise. It moves around restlessly, unsatisfied. It danced in front of me. It's a bitter sweet dance, so dirty and so fierce that it's closer to scary, but also so beautiful and calming at the same time. I can't tear my eyes away from his aura's mesmerising movement.

I'm interrupted from my kind-of-daydreaming, when someone decides to run straight at me. 'How rude.'

"WHOA!" We both yelp as we fall to the sidewalk, and I loose the hold of my bag. I hear it's content falling and spreading to the concrete. I lay on my back for few seconds, trying to understand what just happened, and suddenly a pair of worried brown eyes come into my view. I note that their owner has reddish brown hair and they are wearing a pink cap.

"Are you alright?! Oh gosh, I am so sorry! I was just trying to get out of the rain and I wasn't looking where I was going and-" I'm baffled by how fast this person- Oh, they are a He. Um, How fast he can talk.

"Wow, slow down buddy! I'm fine. See? Just a little surprised." I laugh it off as I stand up, getting to gathering my things from the ground. The boy immediately starts helping me, getting a snort from me. "Hey, is that how you act when someone helps you? Rude!"

I laugh at his playful scolding, and return the phrase with my own. "Well, you DID just tackle me to the concrete without a reason, or any apparent rush. I think I can torment you a little." He chuckles too, and I notice that he is holding half of my groceries. He helps me to fit them inside the bag, and apologises again.

"Really, sor-" I put my small, filthy and rude hand over his mouth and give him a blank stare. "If you apologise one more time, I swear I will punch you."

He laughs, and I note that his aura is really warm. It's reddish brown, Kind of like his hair, with a hint of green in it. For a second, I see a flash of a familiar looking brown wolf, with three bracelets. I blink, and the image of the wolf leaves. I tilt my head, curious. "What's your name?" The boy is slightly taken aback, and for a second he just looks at me.

"Oh! Um, I'm Toboe, nice to meet you!" I chuckle at his stumbling with words, and I give a small, and very brief bow. "Nice to meet you Toboe. Now, if you don't mind, I need to go."

I start to walk away, but Toboe calls after me, sounding slightly panicked. "Um, WAIT! What's your name?!" I look over my shoulder, and a déjà vu hits me. I call back as I walk away.

"I'm Hotaru! Hope we'll run into each others again!"

I give a small wave, before running across the street. Oh, I am aware that my supposed name is 'Miranda Grace la Mariposa', (Hrr...) but that never felt like my own name. The name 'Hotaru' has been on the back of my head for as long as I can remember, and it just feels so right. When I was a kid, I wouldn't answer or acknowledge anyone who called me as anything but Hotaru. Father and aunt Choko have no problem with that, but my mother just out right refuses to use it. So, every time someone asks my name, I say Hotaru, instead of Miranda fucking Mariposa, while mother gives that fucking long string of names just to spite me.

'It's not my name, why should I use it?' I fume inwardly, while dogging a couple who walk past me.

~O~

While planning how dad and I will spend our time together, I kind of tune out the world around me. I'm so in my own thoughts, that I don't even realise that someone calls me out. Suddenly, I feel something yanking me back. I have a split of second to realise what's going on, before I crash into someone's chest. I let a surprised yelp, and watch with wide eyes as a gang of youngsters zoom past us with their bicycles and skateboards.

I crap my shirt at the realisation that I was just walking there.

"The fuck..." I wheeze out.

"Oi, watch where you are going!" I hear my saviour growling after them, but unsurprisingly, they just keep going. The persoon who is holding me is definitely an older male, going just with his voice. And well, his aura is pretty much screaming male. But I'm not overly infesting into his aura or presence, since my attention is fully devoted to trying to breath again. 'Shit what is it with this day?!'

"Hey, you fine brat? You're shaking." I blink, and look up. The guy has darker skin, golden eyes and silver hair. His face is set on a scowl, but there is a fine shine of confusion and concern in his eyes. I study his aura, which is slightly darker shade of silver, but it does have hints of green and bronze. I get an image of an grey wolf with a large scar on it's chest. "Oi, bug. You fine?"

I blink a few times, before I realize I've been quiet for a good moment now. "Oh, um, I think so? A little ruffled, but I'll live." He doesn't look very impressed with my answer, but he lets go of me with a grunt. I take few unsteady steps, with the guys watching my every move with sharp eyes, before I straighten up and turn to look at him properly. "Thank you?" It comes out a little uncertainly, since my head is still little winded. Something flashes in his eyes, but it disappears soon enough. He ruffles my head, and heads over to his slick black motorbike.

A patrolling police car comes into our view, and I see my godfather Hub and his work partner Yaiden in it. (Hub is my Father's best friend from his college times. The pair kept in touch through the years, and Hub was the first one Father even considerate to ask to be my godfather. Father and I even attended Hub's and Cher's wedding.) They wave at me, and I return the motion, while my saviour hides his face by putting on his helmet. I hear him giving out a soft sigh when the car disappears. Not willing to let him just go now, I pipe up like a little shit I am. "I take it that you don't have a very good history with cops?"

"Something like that." I chuckle at his grumbling. He shots me an odd look as he mounts his bike. "Stay out of trouble kid."

"Same to you!" I yell back, and just as he leaves, I add something on a whim. "It was nice to see you Tsume!"

I run like hell when his aura jerks in shock.

~O~

'That was way too much to be just an coincident!' I panic while running towards the train station, with the rain pouring down harder than before. 'But they can't be real! Those were just DREAMS! Nothing more!'

Toboe, Tsume... And those wolf images. I've had dreams about them, I'm sure! Their auras, personality, voices, names! Everything matches! But in my dreams they were wolves, or at least most of the time. They felt familiar. Warm even. It felt so nostalgic to say their names. Like I was at home. But that home is still missing pieces.

"It's impossible..." I mumble as I step inside the train station. It's packed with people, and I realize with small disappointment that my train will be late because of the rain. "Fucking fantastic."

I look around the place, looking for an open seat. I beam when a guy with blue rain coat shuffles a little to side to give me room next to him. He has a dirty blond hair, warm honey brown eyes and easy going grin. He is eating a hot dog, while holding a brown paper bag. I deem him as a safe person and drop my butt next to him. "Thanks!"

He chuckles. "No problem kiddo. Are your parents or friends somewhere here? You looked a little lost there."

I shake my head. "Nah, I was just looking for a seat. My train will be here in a moment, but I don't want to just stand around with nothing to do till then." I feel like adding something a little extra, just because I want to keep talking to him. His voice is really nice, with it being so casual and relaxed. "I'm just trying to get home. Mother went to a meeting and Father won't be coming to see me till evening, so guess I'm in no rush. But I really wouldn't like to stay out here when it gets dark, if you understand what I mean."

He hums, looking casual, but I can tell from the way that his light brown and golden aura moves, that my words trouble him. "Is that so? I'm guessing your old man doesn't live with you then." I nod my head. He huffs amusedly at my openness. "Are you excited to see him?" I shrug with a small smile.

"I guess. It's been a while since I saw him." He nods, but I can tell that he still feels a little troubled. I see a glimpse of a ring. "Are you married?"

I take him so off guard, that he gives a startled laugh. "No, but I DO have a fiancée. Sorry to tell you, but I am not suitable catch for a young lady. Besides, aren't I a little old for you kiddo?" I blush, but I try to cover my embarrassment with a comeback.

"Yes you are, I'm just making sure that you won't try to make a hit on me." He gives a grimace.

"No worries, you are way too young for me kiddo. Besides, my Blue is already way better than any woman on earth!" I chuckle as he starts boasting about his fiancée. "This rain coat is actually hers, but she accidentally took mine in the morning when she left to work, so I went to return it. But it turned out that she didn't want to switch, since mine is so warm, so now I'm on my way back to home with some groceries, while planning my revenge." I laugh as he gestures at the paper bag that is full of bread and baked goods.

We keep talking. Teasing and jesting like we had known each others for years. It feels nice. His aura settles pleasantly, and I get an image of a bulky, fluffy light brown wolf, with kind and mischievous eyes. Next to it, I see a fade image of a dark blue/black she-wolf with eyes so blue that they could fill the ocean.

"Attention, Train 5 has arrived on the bridge 4. Attention-" I perk up, and start to hurry. "That's my train! It was nice to finally meet you Hige! Tell Blue that Hotaru said hi!" I make my escape when I see his eyes widen. 'That should be enough of a proof. They are real!'

I smile to myself through the whole train ride.

~O~

I finally make it to my own little flat. Apartment. Home. Dirty little hole in the wall, whatever you want to call it.

I'm soaked from head to toes, and I leave puddles of water after me. I drop my groceries on my way to the kitchen, before going to my bedroom to change clothes. This place has only two bedrooms, and usually mother never comes here. The only person who even uses the other room is Father when he is visiting. And when he leaves, the place is spotless. Like there never was anyone there. So it is basically I live here alone.

I put on my favourite hoodie and another pair of baggy jeans. The hoodie is coloured as bronze, and it has a picture of five wolves. Two browns, one grey, one black and finally one white. It's my own design. I had mother to get it made for me in exchange of the personal information on the Darcia family's head and his wife. They really liked me for some reason when we met in one of moms business parties. The woman was nice, but Darcia gave me shivers.

I hear my doorbell ring, and three nocks coming right after. I instantly know that it's Father. It's our own secret knock.

"Coming, coming!" I yell, excitement appearing in my eyes again. Finally!

I rush to open the door and as soon as I flung it back, I meet a mirroring pair of amber eyes. I jump into his waiting arms, and in a flash I'm over-run by his warm and welcoming aura. We let our auras dance around for a while, letting them repair our bond, before Father carries me and his bag inside and closes the door after. We flop to the sofa and snuggle there, both enjoying the closeness. Father's dark brown hair is braided, but even then it goes past his waist with ease. I play with the braid's end, while Father starts to braid my untamable hair.

"How are you my little rascal? Causing your teachers and mother a headache, I hope?" I laugh softly. Father is the only person that I know who openly shows his dislike towards my mother or anyone he doesn't like, really. "I sure have been trying. And I finally got Ms Raikoku to chance my name in the official school papers! Took me ages, but I got what I wanted!"

Father laughs. It's loud, warm and full of amusement. "Kahhahahaa, I knew you'd get your way! How did your mother react?"

"She was pissed but she couldn't do anything about it, so she just kind of gave up." Father scoffs. "For such an ambitious woman, she sure does have very little of passion for arguing with you."

"Maybe she learned her lesson not to mess with anyone who is related to you."

"Kahahahaa, I sure hope so." And the talking continues. Nothing too important or serious, just about things that we felt like mentioning.

This is the reason why I care about Father. It's true that he is almost never here, but he knows how to show that he cares about me too. We both know that Father is definitely not a a good role model; he dropped out of college, he drinks, smokes, goes out with a different woman/man almost every other night and he is not about to settle down anytime soon. And even if he was able to get a permission from any Child Health organization so that he could take costudy over me, my Father would not be responsible enough to be left alone with me. He is physically not able to be there with me as much I would want him to, or need him to be. Nor would he be able to offer me much of a heathy upbringing environment, or give me a good sample of what life could be for me.

But he tries to be a good parent. He scolds me when I do stupid things, he has made us food before. (With the help of Choko of course. Never leave my father alone in the kitchen.) He has even gone to my school events and helped me with my homework! (Though he wasn't much of help, but he tried.) He and Choko even passed their knowledge about auras to me, and helped me to control mine. He and Choko have passed down their knowledge and taught me about the dangers of the world, and trained me so I can face them.

He isn't the best father, but I am fine with the fact that he is mine.

"Hotaru... You know I CAN sense that something is bothering you. Mind telling me, or should I just look into your memories?" I hesitate for a mere second, before shaking my head. I don't want him to thinker with my head right now. It's a mess as it is.

"You remember that last time I told you about my dreams? About how The wolves had finally stopped wandering and started to gather in one place? In my dream, they come in a specific order. First comes Toboe, and he is howling with laughter. Then comes Tsume, barking and growling at shadows while he stands in guard. Then comes Hige and Blue, auras sewed together, and this happy air around them..." A grin starts forming on my face as I think back on my day.

"I met Toboe. And Tsume! And Hige and I he told me about Blue, who's aura was sewed together with his! Father, I think my dreams are finally coming true! And they were just like they were in my dreams! The only ones missing are-!"

"The lone white wolf, Kiba. And of course his scarlet eyed Queen. The Flower maiden Cheza." Father finishes for me. There is a warm light in his eyes that surprises me. I wasn't expecting him to take it in so quickly.

"Hotaru, do you know why you, Choko and I can see auras? How we are able to use ours as we wish? Why we have been given this great gift, while being doomed to be different from the rest? Because there is a reason, a real reason. You can either believe it or not, decision is yours."

And so I listened patiently as Father told me about the story of how the humans came to be. It's a story so old, that if our family had forgotten it, only the mountains, skies and seas would have been old enough to remember it. Father tells me a story about greed, lust and obsession. When he talks about the Fireflies, the small but strong and loyal saviors. Then come the wolves. The great warriors, or gods even, who fought against the darkness with the last Firefly. Slowly, we get to the point of how The First Firefly gave us our powers so we could help our allies, wolves, back to The Paradise that they came from. And honestly, while I have heard many, MANY weirder tales and legends, I'm not just eating this up like some good little puppy. (A pun indeed.)

"Okay, lets say I believe you..."

"FINALLY!" Father, really? At least try to pretend you are more mature than your thirteen year old daughter.

"Yes, yes, I am a sceptical little shit. But if that's what we are supposed to do... Why am I the only one who has ever dreamed of them? Why do I always feel like I don't belong?" Father's annoyed face sifts to one of amusement. But there is sadness in his eyes. Just a shade of it, but it's strong enough for anyone to see.

"That, you need to find on your own. Call The First Firefly. Maybe they will appear and explain everything." I glare at Father, as he shiftily dodges my questions. "Father, did you just push my questions on some over powered entity that can be considered as our deity of a kind?"

"... Possibly." I burst out into a buddle of laughter.

"Father, you are the worst!" He chuckles along for a second, and then without a warning, we break out into a tickling war.

~O~

Next night, I have a hard time falling asleep. My mind is fully awake, which causes my mind and aura to be restless. But eventually, I settle down. One second I'm in my bed, falling a sleep and on the next I'm standing in the middle of a flower field. The field is full of pure white flowers, that bloom all round. The sky is dark blue, like a night sky without stars. There doesn't seem to be anyone else here, but there are some fireflies flying around.

"Ooookay... What the fuck are you doing my lunatic brains..."

"My, I see you use some crude language, young one." Startled by the sudden sound, I turn around only to find nothing. I scan my surroundings nervously, but the loudest sound I can hear is ruffling of the grass. The fireflies that I mentioned are now flocking around me, and one even lands on my nose. I chuckle at it nervously. "You wouldn't happen to know who that was, would you?"

The voice chuckles at me, and I freeze up. "Well, you would think that they know their parent." I blink few times before it really connects in my, surprisingly still functioning, brains.

"So... You are that Firefly? The First? That very same bug that gave a few selected humans an ability to control our auras?" I ask, a bit of wonder leaking into my voice. The fireflies swirl around me, and beckon me to sit down. I do so, as a calming voice washes over the field.

"Yes, I believe I am. Thought, your kin has given me so many names, I ought to have lost count by now. But lets not talk about me, after all, I am here for you, my little Light."

"For me?" I ask, watching as some of these little bugs play around in the flowers. They look so at home there.

"Yes, for you. I believe you met a handful of rather interesting characters?" I nod to myself, my attention now fully driven towards the voice. "Well, then this will most certainly interest you, smallest of the Lights. Young one, long ago, so long ago that your kin would never remember it, I chose myself a successor. A heir, if you will. They would not only have the power to control their own, but also other's auras. They would have the power to use the life energy itself to open the Gates of the Paradise- And become the Guardian of the Gates after me."

I listen with care, and try to understand what I am hearing. "But if you chose them so long ago, why did you give all the others their own powers?"

"Because my Heir was not ready to gain such power. (And honestly, if The Stars hadn't already written this to happen, or if The Sun and The Moon would give me a little more time, I would be most grateful. But they have agreed with Fate that the time is now...) My heir's body and mind wouldn't have been able to hold such power to be put upon themselves. As I realised this, I decided that I would gift others, to protect my Heir and teach them. So once they would be able to grow into their powers in peace. The others were also gifted to protect the Flower maiden-"

Surprised, I accidently cut off The First Firefly. "What?! We were created to protect Cheza?! But she has the wolves, doesn't she?" They laugh gently.

"Yes, indeed. However, the wolves can only protect a growing flower from physical harm. The Flower maiden was reborn as a human, meaning that they have many, many emotions and experiences that they are not used to handling. And the Aura users, as you call them, have ability to recognise a wide ranch of emotions. Aura users are the best possible guards. The Moon themselves gave them a permission to protect their poor daughter. However, it has come time for my Heir to meet the Flower maiden and the chosen wolves, so they can join in on their guest to find their way home. And that Heir..."

"You are the Heir of Fireflies, young one. This one is happy to finally meet you." I twirl around, and find a beautiful young woman standing there. She has a short lavender hair, the prettiest red eyes I have ever seen, and short, dress like red ropes. She has a pure white aura and a kind smile. Her name escapes my lips before I can stop it.

"Cheza... CHEZA!" I can't really destcripe the relief and happiness that explode inside me, as I scramble onto to my feet and run into her awaiting arms. I don't understand why, but I cry with no end as I hug this woman who I have ever only seen in dreams. But those dreams... They were so much more. To me... They feel like memories. Even thought this is our first meeting, I instantly feel the warming sense of a mothers and a sister's love. It almost brings tears into my eyes. I feel her arms snake around me to embrace me with care and warmth. The fingers in my hair feel so familiar, and they comfort me like no other ever could. I grin like a lunatic, and before I can really understand it, my mouth is already moving. "Cheza... Don't worry, Cheza! You are in good hands! I will be the best Firefly you have ever seen! Or felt, since you can't really see, but the point stands!"

Cheza and the Voice chuckle, and Cheza keeps playing with my hair. "This one believes Hotaru. This one can't wait to have you by their side."

I smile for a long time after that. We sit around in the field, Cheza still playing with my hair as I tell her about... Well, anything that comes into my mind. How my life is, who I have met, about my powers, that weird cat that lives next door, auras... Anything. Cheza on the other hand talks about wolves. About Paradise, about the Lunar Flowers that surround us. About how she has lived her whole life with aura users like me, and how kind they have been to her. She tells me how strange it is at times, as she can't really tell when she feels like a true Flower maiden, and when like a human vessel. She doesn't understand humans all the time, and easily gets confused. She has a little more control over her feelings now, but she tells me that she can't always tell the difference between them. Our bond forms and sways to it's place as we snuggle and roll in the grass. We spent most of our short time together playing with the fireflies, every now and then asking something from the First Firefly, who answers every question with the same paitient that only a saint could have. Still, I hear amusement in their voice.

At some point, something in me click's into it's place, and there is so much aura. Almost too much. I have to take few deep breaths to stay upright. Cheza and I watch curiously as my soft yellow aura starts to glow in gold. The fireflies gather around me and whisper kind words and praises to me, confusing me a little. I realise that they are disappearing, in fact, the whole field is fading. 'Huh, so it's finally time to wake up...' I pout, saddened that I have to say goodbye for now. Cheza smiles at me, definitely knowing what's going through my head.

"This one will wait eagerly to see you again, Hotaru." Cheza hums, and hugs me one last time. ("Good morning, Hotaru. This one missed you.") I blink in confusion as she whispers something to me, before she leaves my dream space. I sift my gaze to my aura. "First? Do you know what this is?"

"I do. That is a ray of my light." The air around my head sifts, and a gentle breeze ruffles my hair. "You have finally matured enough to wake it up. Any other aura user will now recognise you as my Heir."

I hum, awed- As my consciousness starts to return to the waking world, The First Firefly whispers one last goodbye. "Go and live. I swear I will keep my promise this time around."

~O~

"Well, hello there my shimmering sunshine." Stepping into our small kitchen, I huff to Father when he greets me. He gets my message fast enough, and keeps sipping his coffee. I quickly make myself a simple breakfast, a sandwich and a cup of tea, and drop my butt down to the chair in front of Father. We sit in silence, munching on our food. The air is tense, but we ignore it for the time being. After we are done though, it gets pretty hard to stand.

It's ridiculous how much stronger my aura is already. That light ray that the Firefly mentioned? Yeah, cool, I feel it alright. But it's fucking tiring. I can sense so much from far farther than I ever have. I feel the city sifting around us as the morning light comes to life. And my aura? It's pulsing like crazy and glowing bright. Like, I am a real life flashing christmas light. I glare at Father as he puts his sunglasses on. 'When in the name of a chipmuck he get them?'

"So... Why the gloomy face? Not feeling too bright today?" My eyebrow twitches. I glare at him with a pout on my face. "Oh wait watt is that face? Little bugger, you are shocking me. I thought you loved me! Wouldn't it lighten you up if you told me what's bothering you? I'll do anything to get your dazzling smile back-"

"Father, you are the worst..." I groan at him, thought my lips are bulling up against my tries to keep a straight face. "Really, that just hertz my feelings."

"...Pfff HAHAHAHAAA! ATTA MY GIRL!" We break out into a fit of giggles, and I SWEAR, that I felt a lingering presence of The First sigh in relief before they leave with a chuckle. While we laugh our guts out, my aura finally calms down a tag. The glowing fades out, and I feel a little more normal again.

Later we go out for a run.

~O~

"Inago NO." I watch in a disturbed kind of awe as my Father fights my aunt's hold. "DON'T YOU DARE BROTHER! YOU KNOW VERY FUCKING WELL HOW MUCH ANIMALS DISSLIKE YOU, YOU MORON!"

"BUT CHOKO, LOOK AT HOW CUTE IT ISSSS!" I laugh my guts out while my aunt wrestles with my Father and apologises to the dog's owner.

The week is over, and mother will be back tomorrow. We are on our way to the airport, but since none of us really wants to depart too soon, we decided to take the lon way and go by foot. The airport ain't that far, and we'll make it there fast enough like this. Besides, it looks like it's the first rushing hour of the day, so the streets are flooded with cars.

"Come on Father, lets get going! Those clouds look like they will come down any second now." I pat Father's shoulder with a laugh. Aunt Choko sighs and starts muttering about. Father teases her about being a stuck up dancer, and my aunt responses with murderous glare. I follow their familiar pattern, and let my mind wander.

Cheza has visited my dreams every night this past week, and I have never felt this good. Being with her is like being stuck on a charger. Father and aunt also have seen the change, and I have lost the count of all the bug and light puns they have thrown at me. I have also caught glimpses of Toboe, Tsume and Hige. But only from afar. They also saw me a few times, and tried to call me out, but I always managed to slip away. (What can I say? I really like hide and seek.)

I also ran into Blue while Father and I visited Hub. She was there to see Yaiden, and we ended up chatting a bit. She mentioned Hige. When Father and I left, I quickly remarked her to say hi to him for me. She looked pretty confused.

Anyway, back to Father and aunt Choko. We haven't talked about it... But it's clear we all know. The only thing they don't know is that I will have to leave the nest a little sooner. I think. We'll see. But I can tell that they have felt my change and they have definitely felt me adapting to this fucking massive among of new aura. It's insane how much power is coursing through me. I've had almost no control what so ever for almost a week now, but it's starting to settle down. I still make the windows whine a little when I get excited in a closed space, and I still do tend to look a little brighter in general. Literally.

Father said that something similar happens to all aura users, but on a much smaller scale. Aunt later explained that aura users reach their full potential, only after reaching a certain mental maturity, where they can be trusted to use their powers responsibly. Usually it just means that they can, for example, use their aura to grow their stamina, go longer without eating, visit dreams and read other people with ease. But those with stronger auras can also use their aura for combat, like form shields or light. Others like Father, can use their aura to move physical objects or hide them from view. Same with Aunt Choko.

"Hotaru, think fast!" Speaking of the devil. I give a startled yelp and rush to catch whatever aunt threw at me just now. It, turns out to be my house keys.

"Aunt Choko! Please stop scaring me like that. And why do you have my keys in the first place?" Choko laughs, and that massive sea of brown/black hair jumps around in response to that.

"Borrowed them from Inago. Idiot forgot that you probably still want to go home." I raise an eyebrow at her and Father, who by the way, heard that just fine. They are still bickering when they go to their plane, and almost drag me along! I bide my goodbyes to them, lingering on the airport with a sense of sadness.

It was fun while it lasted. But now I need to return from being Hotaru, and get ready to take on Miranda Grace La Mariposa. Eugh...

~O~

I walk back slowly. I'm in no rush, and it's fun to see the gray and rainy town waking up. People move forward in masses, even though it's barley eight. I quickly make an escape from the steadily growing noise to the closest 24/7 store. I need to get milk and something for diner. Maybe some pork and vegetables? Nothing too fancy, just something simple that I can enjoy by myself.

The store doesn't have that many people here, since it is so early. Mostly just elder people, but there is also one rather tired looking single mother with four little ones, and they all but make up for the missing noise. I grimace when one of the kids starts screaming from the top of his lugs. Jeez, I have heard sirens that made less noise. By the time it's my turn, the cashier looks more than done with her job. I can sympathize with that.

"Have a good day and please come again." After stepping out of the slide doors, I'm greeted by a lazy shower of rain. As I start to trod towards home, I study the falling drops of water with a mild case of wonder. It's curious how it always seems to rain when I think something is about to happen. Extending my aura quietly, going undetected by the people around me, I try to recognise any familiar aura traces. A smile forms to my lips when I find Hub and Cher down the street. It's probably one of my godfather's rare day-offs. I wave to them as I go by. I let my mind wander as I make my way in the rain, going considerably slower than rest of the mass. Everyone's auras are so... Grey. Spiritless. There are spikes of annoyance here and there, but positive, delightful auras are almost next to none existing. I take a great pleasure from feeling someone a little brighter than the rest.

To my surprise, my aura starts to pull me forward. I cautiously follow the feeling, trying to detect what is luring me. I manage to reach the puplic garnen, or the park, if you like, before I realise what- or who really, is calling me. I start to walk faster. The person gently urges me to come faster. My feet move to jog on their own, and then I'm running.

'This way, come. This one is waiting.' I could scream when I see a familiar lavender hair.

Cheza looks beautiful. She's wearing a cherry red hoodie, blue jeans and some rather comfortable looking boots. I actually do squeal when she opens her arms to me, and I crash into her hug head first. I immediately wrap my arms around her, intending to stay there till the end of the world. A sweet, gentle and charming smell fills my nostrils, and soft, silk like hands comp through my hair in slow motion. She feels a little too skinny, and her breaths are rather hallow. Two new people come to linger around us, thought they do give us a private moment. Judging by that Cheza doesn't mind them, they don't have any ill will or I don't need to care about them.

"Hotaru's hair is so soft. This one always liked your long hair..." I hear her mumbling something, and a question raises itself in my head. 'Wait, always? But she met me barley a week ago!... Oh whatever.' One of our new companions coughs, subtle asking for our attention. I'd be more than happy and very much able to ignore them for many hours to come, but Cheza has other plans. Regulesly I let her go, and turn to judge our new friends.

'Oh? Aura users? Interesting.' One is a small, chubby woman with a flaring spark and the other one is a tallish man with soothing smile and curious laughter. They both greet me with a gentle touch with their auras, and I return the greeting.

"My Firefly, it is an honour to meet you at last. We are Thengo and Eima, and we were the guardians asigged to watch and help lady Cheza." The woman, Eima, introduce themselves to me and I feel my aura flickering curiously at my new tittle/nickname. "We have been raising her for last eighteen years, and we have brought her here, to ask if you would wish to claim your status as her guardian?"

I just stared at them. I tried to proceed what they just said, and looked at Cheza with a very, very puzzled look. Even she was frowning a little- like she was displeased. "Cheza? What is this about?"

"... Apologises Hotaru. This one is also very confused." My curiousity was piped up by the biting edge on her voice. I stared at Thengo and Eima... Who start to snicker?

"Pff... I'm sorry Cheza, I really, REALLY, tried to resist but I just couldn't." Thengo got out between giggles, and I feel Cheza relaxing next to me with a huff. Eima is down right howling, getting few confused looks from the people walking by. And from me.

"Um... Would anyone be so dear as to enlighten your poor Firefly?" I speak up when it looks like they've mostly calmed down. Cheza is till pouring holes into Eima's skull thought, which is... Strange. Thengo is the first one to actually regain his speaking ability from the burst of laughter.

"Heheh, right. So, as my dear wife, Eima put it, we are Cheza's guardians. Both legal and spiritual. Our job is to protect that little spicy-mouse you are hugging there, and help her through the struggle of handling her human body. We were assigned to be her guardians a week after her birth by her mother, a very strong willed flower maiden chosen by the Moon. Sadly, she passed away after the first two months of Cheza's life." Thengo's and Eima's auras fluttered slightly. They definitely knew Cheza's mother on a personal level, so I guess I understand why they were chosen.

"After that we have been looking after Cheza. She is our daughter in everything but blood, and we both know that in our world that doesn't necessarily mean anything." Eima continued, hinting that she may have been doing a little digging in me. I narrowed my eyes at her and I could feel the sigh that Cheza gave.

"Eima, didn't this one tell you not to push your nose where it doesn't belong?" I stared at Cheza taken aback by her. She acted so much more like... A human. Eima laughed at that thought.

"Anyway... We came here because Cheza says that is was time to meet you and the Chosen wolves..." Thengo continued where his wife left off, while putting an arm over her shoulders.

"But that does not mean your guest is about to happen yet- while the world can now funktion without the help of wolves, we Aura users will remain here. We are too human to cross over to the Paradise. Well all but you." I felt anxiety starting to claw it's way through me, but it stopped when Cheza patted my head to gain my attention.

"Hotaru, you are nowhere near to be old enough to decide anything regarding to this. Even This one is still too young- this one would never make it if they tried to cross over to the Paradise." That did settle me a little- at least I wouldn't need to change my whole life stile in one night like some overly classic fictional heroine. The other side was still a little too overwhelmed.

"But if that's the case... Why was it necessary for us to meet now?" My question was justified if I may say so. And I think it's reasonable to say that I was confused as fuck.

"The wolves, my Dear Firefly." Thengo's voice is nice, I decide. "They have forgotten what they truly are. And we can't rush memories. Those will come back with time. But until they remember, there is nothing to be done but wait."

"However, as it seems that all five remain here, Thengo, Cheza and I decided that it would be more handy if we moved here during the school break. And since we were moving onto home-schooling her anyway, why not?" Eima shrughed, snuggling closer to her husband. I stared at them and then at Cheza- awe was turning into happy tears. I wouldn't be alone anymore...

"Hotaru... This one is happy. Very happy. This one hopes that you are willing to help them get back their pack?" I grin at her. Like she even needed to ask. After all, she was the one who turned me from a stray to a person.

"Hell yeah! We'll get our Strays in no time!"

~O~

Somewhere in the city, a young man walked along the rainy streets. His dark brown straws of hair hung around his face, hiding the beautiful blue eyes that stare straight ahead. Old brown jacket is the only cover he has from the drops of water, but that doesn't bother the silent beauty. The young man doesn't have a destiny in mind, nor does he have a place to return to. All he can do is walk forward.

He has a strong urge to run- a dog howls somewhere. The steps speed up- his jogging. A smell of rain hits his nose and he sees a glimpse of two girls. One is taller and has lavender coloured hair. The other is barely a teenager, with a long dark brown ponytail.

Kiba starts to run.

~O~

It all started from a legend. . .

"This world is once coming to it's end. When that day shall come, a Paradise will appear.

However, only wolves can enter in there. Lunar flowers shall guide them to Paradise.

But until then, a Firefly shall protect and guard these flowers. And when wolves finally come for flowers,

the Firefly will guide wolves to them. Firefly shall company the wolves on their journey, if they wish to accomplish their fate."

~O~

Info/facts about the chapter:

*The tale-

The battle is the same tale that the elder told Tsume and others. So, if I understand the legend correctly, in the beginning there were only animals. The wolves that came from the Paradise were Gods, who were forced to come to the earth, as the animals were destroying each others. And as they needed physicals bodies to affect the earth, their astral bodies sifted into wolves. Graceful, beautiful and powerful creatures that fought together to save the earth.

The animals had grown dark after being created, and in their lust for human like forms, they lost themselves. These were the evil souls that the Fireflies and wolves fought. They tried to protect rest of the animals, but they were still tainted. To prevent this from happening again, the wolves separated the tainted animals from the rest, and gave them new forms. This way the animals could know who they needed to avoid, and as these new humans couldn't understand or speak the language of other animals, they couldn't taint the animals with their own dark and selfish morals.

*The First Firefly

The First Firefly is an astral being, that once was a mortal soul. In this story, the lights that fireflies emit is actually their life-energy, aka their aura. They have deep enough connection to their own life-energy to make it shine bright enough for others to see it. However, after leaving the living world, The First's basically became just energy. They can't effect the living world much. They can't create a physical body like the wolves of old could, because they are attached to the Paradise's gates. If they tried to form a new body out of air, they would need to sever their connection to the gate so they could let the body anchor themself to the earth. And after that they would be too exhausted to link with it again, so they wouldn't be able to open the gates. They could stay on earth as they possessed Hotaru, since they just worked as the bridge between these two worlds. The spell bound a part of them into Hotaru, but the other part remained in the other realm, and guided Hotaru's energy to the gate so she could open it.

*Death

Death has a weird accent kind of this with speech, so every time he says 'Y' it comes out as 'YH'. (Yes, Death does have a sexuality in this story. It's not required for you to agree with this, nor do I ask you to be hundred and one percent interested in this fact.)

*The street musician?

The song is from Wolf's rain soundtrack Album; Wolf's Rain O.S.T 1. "Could you bite the hand?" By Steve Conte. Personally I love this song.

Thank you to:

yugiohyaoiloverandsonicfangirl, midnightrose132, freeze47458, fantasy.92, SilentSadow32, Mystirica18, Lunarmist45, Layla347, Kouryuu, Juri Rose21, Cheynne761, 253910, BookwormStrawberry, 3, N2LvpR

AND BIG HIGE FIVE TO EVERYONE WHO WROTE TO ME! Every single one of you have my thanks. Honestly, it was thanks to you all that I got to the school I wanted to go to. I can't express this enough- AND, I haven't forgotten my promise to kind of rewrite this. I have been editing my stories and new chapters for half a year now- and all my work went down from the drain thanks to a small bug. I will have re-write everything, so there is the reason it took so long to get this done. (And well, school.)

But I love you all, and I hope that when I get this put together, you can come back to a better story than ever. But now, thank you-

For favorites, follows, reviews, and overall for READING. It has been amazing to write for you.

Sincerely- 14fox, your humble author.