Rockman EXE

Guardians of the Light Circle

[Special] Episode 18: Unmasking the Real Me

I screamed, rushing streams of terror tangling every fibre of my being – a beast, a colossal white creature, growled at my face. All the confidence I once had, demoralized at first sight. Cupid's arrow might have wounded Romeo, Juliet being his remedy, his cure. Not me. The arrow did strike, yet this meeting worsened the pain, a gash in its place. I felt the urge to for my life – who knew what this beast was capable of? It's claws, deadly and powerful. Wings, grand and supreme.

A beautiful monster.

So beautiful, it was terrifying. Yet, why didn't I run away? True, one bite could easily devour me, but I still wouldn't budge a muscle – and then I understood. I had been chosen… by this calamity.

Opening Song:

Ikutsu namida o nagashitara

Every Heart sunao ni nareru darou

Dare ni omoi wo tsutaetara

Every Heart kokoro mitasareru no darou

Nagai nagai yoru ni obieteita

Tooi hoshi ni inotteta

Meguru meguru toki no naka de

Bokutachi wa ai o sagashiteiru

Tsuyoku tsuyoku naritai kara

Kyou mo takai sora miageteiru

~Disclaimer~

Capcom and Keiji Inafune own all official RockmanEXE characters. All other OC's are my property.

~Author's Notice~

Just a quick note – hopefully you've noticed that this episode has the word 'Special' on it. It means that it will resemble a separate story. You'll be guided through the story of Nature's previous life and I've done everything I could to explain… well… EVERYTHING… Consider it a 3-episode lasting flashback. Yes, this is only one of the three segments.

Warning! There will be a tiny bit of gore… I'm telling you this beforehand that way you are not too caught off guard. You'll see romance, you'll see comedy, and you'll see action, and plenty of tragedies as well. I could almost call this my best work so far.

Please enjoy this 'Special Episode 18,' for it was written with a thrilling heart.

My trembling hands brushed against its feathery fields and feeling the trust slowly blooming, I caressed the creature. Soft, I thought. Yet what happened next left me quizzical. It sighed, consequently…. mumbling.

"Oh, what a first-class massage… even better than cascade water…"

I hollered, rolling abruptly backwards. For a second, I floated in the air, with nothing to grab. Stretching my hand out, I held onto the beast's back, stopping myself from falling. Gingerly, I lifted my face, looking at its pupil once more. This time, however, it seemed gentler.

"No need to be frightened, child," the snow-white beast soared to the deep blue skies, even higher than before.

Now keeping my legs pinned below for support, I blinked twice. I replayed, stuttering. "U-Umm… p-pardon me for the s-sudden direct approach, but… w-w-who are you?"

The creature's immense beating wings pushed away the pink organ cotton wools, before turning into still water, leaving no ripples. Its head faced forwards and gave a response. "I have many names. Some call me the 'White Tempest,' others whose greatest fears include me in their little picture know me as 'The Sender of Misery,' whilst others praise who I am, giving me a more, benignant title – 'God's Wind.'" It rolled its eyes, unexpectedly diving a few good meters down, trapping another question deep in my throat. Disregarding my confusion, the beast resumed. "Of course, you don't have to show such treatment. Anjiru will do just fine."

"Anjiru?" In a flash, I recalled the collar around her neck. "I understand." I bowed down, showing the creature respect, "My name is Sakurai Nature. It's an honour to meet you."

Yet Anjiru didn't answer, instead she shot me a remark. "I'm afraid that time is not at our side." I felt bewildered, but she continued on. "Let us bond." Her voice echoed.

Out of the blue, a circle, marked in symbols, glowed below me. A sudden chill rushed down my spine, as 3-dimensional gears turned on the illuminating shape. In the very centre, a gate unlocked and a message cascaded down. Leaning to its direction, I read the message. It was a contract.

"I have chosen you as my vessel. Now it's you who must accept me as your sword."

I blinked twice. It definitely was bizarre for a complete stranger to ask for such a serious commitment. Yet, I had expected this to occur. Thus, I nervously nodded, placing my hand in the centre of the circle, spreading long fingers and pressing them down. Once having made contact, ripples of data scattered all over its surface. I yelped, in shock, feeling a surge of intruding streams, entering my mecha-nervous system – the entrance being my left eye. It wasn't long before every drop of data launched inside, leaving nothing behind. A clenched hand pressed tightly on my left eye. The pain was unbearable, almost a piercing dagger, drowning a transfixed face.

I shot a painful glare at Anjiru and she surprised me once again with a tender gaze. She murmured soothingly, "It will all go away soon enough. For now, let this exhausted Legend rest inside you for a while."

…

… I gasped, in disbelief. "Wait, Legend? You are Legend!?" But I was too late, for she dashed forwards, harshly turned and looked at me face to face. One wink and she rapidly entered my body, a light glowing around me as she disappeared. For a second, I grinned, ignoring the unquenchable pain, and aware of the sudden excitement growing within, but then I remembered something else. She was gone. In other words, I had no ground below, except the one that was sharply pulling me down – and fast. I blinked twice, sweatdropping and once more, panicking screams escaped my lips.

The clouds dispersed, leaving me in nothing, but blue wonder. Falling and falling, how could someone fall this much in one day? Worse, enduring a painful left eye? I was a cryptic girl, scanning circumstances was my specialty – I couldn't help it.

And yet, it wasn't long before I harshly landed, flat on my back. Splashing water sprinkled on a face that had just lost all colours, whilst brown locks swayed in the northern winds. I coughed softly, before hearing an idyllic announcement.

"Hiya, ladies and gentlemen~! This is your captain speaking. We'd like to welcome you on board Ban Sealines, sailing to rendezvous. Flight duration is around 12 minutes and 56 seconds…"

Catching up with the jabber, I raised an eyebrow, smiling. Only she would act so frank.

"…Must I mention that weather is bright, almost a Xanadu – perfect for sailing away! Once again, we thank you for choosing to sail with us today and we hope you enjoy the ride."

I cackled with laughter, having reckoned the voice. "Thank you for the wonderful service, though I don't see any seat belts, Captain Ria."

She turned to face me, "No worries! We'll be coming to harbour soon."

Green orbs eyed what laid further my best friend's stare, right upon the open sea. Splashes from behind caressed my sensitive ears, whilst ravishing waves stumbled across titanic fins. A magnificent tail glistened in the blinding sunrays, grasping my attention. I was standing on an aquatic spirit, Ria's spirit.

It was a lavender seal.

"Impressive, isn't he?"

My eyebrows narrowed down, reacting to my friend's remark. I inquired, "Him?"

"Yep, this is Ban." Ria patted the top of his head, hence gently rubbing her cheek against it. "The most awesome seal that a girl could ever ask for~!" After comforting him a little, she approached me – crossing her arms. "So, where's yours? I mean, I just showed you mine, so it would be fair for you to share as well, right?"

I flinched. There was absolutely no way I could apprise Ria of such an irrational event. Rather spontaneously, a trembling hand scratched a right wet cheek, whilst I attempted to change the subject. "Actually…" Then, the missing screw returned to its rightful place. "… It's a surprise!"

"Oooooh… I LOVE surprises~!" Ria shrieked at an ear-piercing pitch.

"I know…" swinging my arms, I asked her for a confirmation. "Ria, do you remember what Hanabusa-sensei told us – the story of the Legends?"

Suddenly, my platinum-blonde-haired friend twirled around the spot. Her child-like laughter spread in a typhoon, penetrating my ears once again. Meanwhile, she stretched out her hand, materialising a holographic panel in front of her. She scrolled down and summoned an image. There were five spiritual animals – a sapphire-blue whale, a golden unicorn, a crimson wild mountain cat, a darkness-furred wolf and… a snow-white eagle.

"Of course I remember," Ria skipped to Ban's head, continuing to rub her hand against the very top of it, "That story is what made me feel any kind of excitement for this day."

"You guys know about the Legends?"

Another voice intercepted with hers. All three of us turned our gaze to it, including the adorable Ban. Eyes widened, once having met the new sight. Spirits – thousands of spirits – galloped, flew and approached the horizon we were following, riders on their backs. Not too far from us, Shunsen gave us a wave.

Ria immediately turned ecstatic, returning the wave. "Manuel~!" she blushed heavily, after watching the brunette smirk. "You're here! I- I mean..." she hesitated, "… w-well I… y-you know… I thought that you… that I-"

"She missed you." I finished the sentence for her, receiving her dark glare. Yet it meant no trouble, I knew she'd thank me later.

"Really?" Shunsen raised an eyebrow, pointing thumbs up to us – mostly in Ria's direction. "I missed you too."

Her blush deepened, provoking laughter to well inside me, bursting right out into the open. As expected, she punched my arm – hard. But, it didn't hurt. As a matter of fact, the laughter only worsened. Furthermore, whilst rubbing the red mark, I studied Shunsen's spiritual animal. A fox, with dazzling orange fur and five tails. It winked at me. Peculiar, I thought.

"Shunsen-san." He faced me, as I showed my curiosity, "What's its name?"

"Leo."

Ria exclaimed – increasing the volume of the hundred butterflies that I could hear from where I stood. "What a great name! And he's such an extraordinary animal. I mean… he's got five tails!"

He laughed nervously, speaking frankly. "Seals are awesome too."

I rolled my eyes. Was I the only one who could see a connection happening right there? Of course, it was time for a role alteration. Besides, Ria always kept her feet well grounded onto reality. It made sense that I could hinder another escape from my daydreaming bubble for once. Promptly, a certain boy intercepted the conversation – the boy I did not wish to see again.

"Good joke, but maybe you should take a look at the next top-rated animal." Magobei – what a mood killer. "My monkey, Vortex can kick your Leo's butt anytime!"

"Is that a challenge… Mango?"

The redhead's eye twitched. He shouted, enraged. "YOU BET!"

A tense aura expanded around us, watching the two commit the beginning of an innocent contradiction. But almost immediately, a grey-haired boy stepped in. He stretched both hands out to them, telling them to stop. "How about you two take a walk? You're scaring Hirian!"

"Hirian?" Shunsen noticed Yatsuhiro from the corner of his eye. "Who's Hirian?"

Yatsuhiro grinned, patting an ebony spirit's head. "Hirian, my squirrel spirit."

The brunette choked a guffaw, until he reached his peak and delivered all laughter that stayed once trapped. I winced back – ponds wide open, glowering. I could feel a sudden urge… a lethal impulse. Punch him, rip him apart, my mind ordered – what was happening to me? How could I think of such reckless actions?

Luckily Ria pulled me out of it all and I was glad, for who knew what my confusion could have provoked. She exclaimed, buoyantly. "Ignore him! Magobei is just being a scoundrel. Hopefully boys will use him as a role model."

I couldn't understand. "A role model, of what?"

"Of having the worst chance of ever getting a girlfriend." She finally made sense – she was joking. I chuckled a little, but it got louder when she faced the red-haired boy and shot him an indirect insult. "Hey, Magobei! I feel so sorry for Vortex. She'll have to endure all eternity with a moron as a sidekick!"

He spat at her, "WHAT!? YOU DID NOT JUST-" But he stopped, blinking twice, before relaxing his face. He looked quizzical. Magobei waved his hands, proving his disbelief. "Whoa, whoa, whoa! Vortex is a boy."

"Are you sure?" Ria smirked.

Holding his breath, Magobei leaned down the monkey's back and gasped. A wave of red madness left a wide trail across his cheeks. He stared at the monkey in the eye, suppressing the humiliation. "Y-You… Vortex you're a GIRL!?"

Everyone laughed. After watching such a comedy act, it couldn't be helped. The laughs had to flee, revealing themselves to the world.

Yet, just from afar, I spotted a white figure dashing through the clouds, gracefully dancing in the winds. My eyes widened. Those mighty teeth, clenched against its equal partner, concealing inner growls. Firm horns seemed to sprout from its head, whilst golden claws rapidly plunged the cold mist. Its scaly blue skin flashed in the light. I wondered who would have been chosen by such a spiritual phenomenon. I recalled admiring my cousin at Xanblacor – the most popular sword fighting style in all Esperanza. He always seemed more interested in learning to defend and protect, even if we were only months apart, him being the older one. I stood on the other hand, on the safe side. That just convinced me even more. I knew it.

It had to be him.

And just as spontaneously as he appeared, the creature forsook my sight, leaving me baffled in bewilderment. However, no matter how many times I could feel Ria's attempts to grab my attention, I kept asking myself – was Dark Star chosen by that moonlight dragon, or could it be someone else? Perhaps there was another rival for my father to fight with, another person to look up to, another person to care for. Yet I heard the sentence – a curse and the definition of truth.

Reality is cruel.

I didn't want to believe it, but I couldn't ignore it either. Every time I'd see the people I cared for, the thought of never seeing them again pierced right through my heart-

"ITAAAAAAAAAAAI!" A red burden covered my left cheek. I easily recognised it. Ria had just slapped me and I knew why. I had dazed off – real deep. My green orbs met with her galaxies. I gasped. Tears were rolling down her face, streams liberating right out of her.

"R-Ria…?" She harshly grabbed my shoulders, shaking my limbs a little. Yet another forceful blow to my face overcame the balance, toppling us to the ground.

She yelled, furious, "Nature! Wake up!" Wake up?

Shunsen immediately jumped off Leo, landing on the lavender seal. He rushed to us, trying to pull Ria away.

He shouted, "Ria, what are you doing!? Get off of her!"

"YOU DON'T UNDERSTAND! IF I LET HER GO SHE'LL DIE!"

…

…

…

…

Surprised? Yes. Confused? No.

I knew what she meant.

Linpheans, Androsians, Solarians, Obsidians… we were never the same, only similar. Most of us may be telepathic. Others might control the elements from their homes, or families. Yet not all powers are perfect. There had been days when I wouldn't stop thinking. I constantly wondered and always grasped that curiosity, expanding it. Oneself could be known as a genius in such context. However in my case, I wouldn't stop.

When Ria said 'if I let her go, she'll die,' she referred to losing all sanity. Submerging into a void of voices. And every telepathic knew of this. How come everyone wasn't aware? Since not everyone would leave themselves tangled in their minds, as I did. It was quite rare to do nothing, but think. An abnormality. My worst-case scenario was the day I watched the only man I had ever loved die. That fateful day, a day I would never forget. The moment those grey orbs were locked by fallen eyelids, apprehension was unlocked.

And then I realised, even after Ria had punched me, I kept on thinking. I panicked, for… I couldn't see them anymore. Even on that day, I could still see everything around me. The crystal clear water had disappeared, together with Ria and everyone else. Even the spiritual animals were gone. Only voices were left.

"Guys! We're almost at shore!" I imagined Yatsuhiro, pointing at the coast. Consequently, echoing cries brought raucous footsteps towards us. At least that's what I assumed, for I heard Hanabusa-sensei, demanding an explanation.

"Nature passed the limit! She can't leave her subconscious-state!" Ria cried heavily, I could almost feel the wetness on my face.

The voices softened, worrying me even more. What was going on? I stood up, finding myself surrounded by nothing but darkness. I stumbled my way forwards, whilst a drum-beating heart reverberated in my chest. Shivers travelled through my body. It was cold – too cold. I increased the speed, trying to catch a little more warmth.

Gradually, tall buildings became visible, as well as a dark blue sky. I gasped the moment my focus returned. The buildings I saw were the only whole left, for all that remained besides them was the wreckage of their brothers. Cracked roads rose from the ground, ruptured vehicles hanging at the edges. Fuming smoke bloomed and spread to the skies, whilst a gust of wind swung my brown locks back.

Pupils shrunk at the sight. Destruction, debris, fear – all combined into one macabre scenario. I winced back, but it wasn't because of the nightmare I had before me. It was because I recognised this place. It was a fragmented… Framukior.

The Arc, the iron wall protecting the capital of Linphea, had been breached. Only ruins were left behind. The perplexity had surpassed my straight thinking. What could have done this? How could Framukior, the most protected city in all Esperanza result as dust? With trembling legs, I staggered towards the debris, hoping to find a rational explanation. Yet, I could only see the continuance of a perished city.

Not a soul walked these streets, except my own. Even after reaching the main plaza, which usually would take a good half an hour, I still couldn't find anyone. Instantaneously, I heard something. A sudden relief eased my burning heart. That is until I heard it again….

… a growl.

I yelped. I felt myself turn into stone, brawling my head to turn. Shivering untameable, I turned, little by little. And once no more than a centimetre distanced the growl's origin, I faced it fully... a shadow – a savage beast, lethal teeth born to manslaughter – a titan, easily 20 meters high and the cause of death, through unmerciful stamps – a murderer, deadly eyes ready to traumatise its prey at first sight – a demon, desiring to crush its victim in a fatal hold.

But, I didn't know any of this, until I spotted a woman, who within her protective embrace was a vulnerable boy. I hesitated to reach them, but my legs wouldn't budge. And strangely, the shadow had not paid any attention to me, as if… I wasn't really there. The savage beast licked its lips, revealing its deadly teeth. It stretched out its barely transparent arm, claws approaching the terrified woman. The titan yanked the woman's treasure from her, provoking cries of sorrow. She couldn't move, for an immense bolder had fallen on her waist and everything below. The murderer clenched its fist on the boy, forcing screams out. She felt herself choke, as blades freed the dam within her eyes. She called out the boy's name, before silencing.

The demon… crushed the boy… bloody, scarlet petals spurting out… like a popping balloon…

…

…

…

… and smiled.

…

…

The shadow turned, stamping its way to another place, in search of another victim and in search of another death. I stood there alive, but dead. Never in my life had I seen such a gruesome murder. Worse the mother watched her son get killed right in front of her! My hands pressed against both sides of my head in disbelief. I trembled… in fear. I was afraid. There was nothing logical about this. That thing had just slaughtered a little boy, for its own entertainment. I then understood why some of my classmates would shiver the moment they'd hear the word 'shadow.' And to think that others believed that somewhere in Esperanza rested an army drowning in them. I fell on my knees, clutching my head against my pinned legs. From the corner of my eyes I saw the woman, but… she wasn't breathing.

Green eyes snapped wide open. I had just seen two deaths, gruesome and slow, painful and fearsome. I immediately stood up and rushed towards the opposite side. I ran, with all the strength I could muster. And blinking eyes released tears, tears of a memory that would leave me traumatised for the rest of my life.

I had to get out of hell. That's all I desired. Yet, why was I even here? Was this some kind of joke to scare the petals right out of me? Well, if it were, then I would have congratulated the person on the spot for their success. But then again, reality is cruel. Thus, this nightmare was real, and yet, it could be just a dream-

My thoughts were interrupted. I felt a cut across my left cheek, a sharp thud following. I shifted my glance towards an arrow, meters in length. As a reflex, my head immediately turned to its direction. Like falling dominoes, buildings collapsed, after being pushed down by… the shadow. I panicked for a moment, before that resulted as confusion. The shadow was dead. How?

Hurriedly, exhausted legs dashed through the wreckage, approaching an empty space, just before the main plaza – where the shadow laid. Banishing the hellish memory, I hurtled forwards. Painful daggers stabbed my legs, begging for me to halt. Not long after, limbs gave up, forcing me to fall. I leaned the weight on my hands, panting heavily, whilst sweat rolled down. I lifted my gaze, expecting more destruction. I gasped.

Anjiru.

I suddenly felt the urge to cry. Perhaps she was my salvation. I could almost see my home by just gazing at her. Yet, I also wished to know what was going on. This was my chance.

"Anjiru… what's going on here…?" the magnificent eagle walked to my direction, looking at me straight in the eye.

She spoke, in a serious tone. "This is the future."

…

…

I couldn't breath. I felt myself faint, but she continued anyway. "The Legends are angels converted to spiritual animals, you see. Angels sent from God to protect the heart of the universe – Esperanza. If anything were to occur in this galaxy, all other galaxies would fall. I'm sure you recognised the capital Framukior."

I stammered, still in shock. "A-An…jiru… w-who… did… this?"

"That shadow you saw is the most powerful of its race. There are others that can easily be mistaken for your kind. However, deception is the least of your concerns."

"You still haven't answered my question." I shot her a determined glare.

She leaned her head down, mere feet away from my own. "I'm trying to ease your trauma. What you've seen is what will happen to every living thing, unless someone intervenes and puts a stop to this brutality," she returned to her upright position, "I didn't choose you because you seemed caring and compassionate for others. I chose you because no matter how much darkness has engulfed your life, you have still moved forwards. That determination will be your ally, whilst fear, your enemy."

I winced back, hesitating to stand up. "H-How am I… ugh… supposed to do that… by myself!?"

"You won't. There are four other Legends out there, ready to find their chosen ones. Once the five are gathered…" I narrowed my eyebrows, nervous for her next words. She revealed the next step, stealing all my breath away, "… you will all fight, in a death game. The winner shall claim the title of leader and you will prepare yourselves, to defend Framukior, Esperanza, the universe and the Light Circle."

Clenching my fists, I drowned in flames. She still hadn't answered my question. "Anjiru, who is the one responsible for this insanity!?"

She closed her eyes, sighing. Eyelids opened and she spoke, "Darkness."

"Darkness?" I was left bewildered. This was too vague; I expected a more specific response.

"And when I say 'Darkness,' I'm talking about the Darkness."

Green ponds widened, as silence, disguised as wind, swayed my hair in its presence. She had to be lying. It was a myth, at its highest name, a legend. It couldn't be part of the reality that I feared.

I looked a the snow-white eagle, having entered the realm of confusion, "Are you telling me that… Darkness will…"

"Yes – Darkness, a monster – born from the hearts of every living being. Like us spiritual animals, it needs a vessel to survive. It is not known who, but in a few years, Darkness will begin its search for its chosen one."

"How do you know of this?" I inquired, starting to comprehend her point.

"A crack was spotted on that creature's gate." I covered my cheeks, concealing the horror on my face. Ignoring the action, the spirit resumed, "It would require a decade for it to fully destroy the gate, even less. And since Darkness was buried in Obsidian's core, miles underground, there is a possibility that more than half of Obsidian's population would die. That is, if no one would initiate an attack in advance."

Breathing heavily, I approached the white spirit. "Anjiru, I might daze off constantly in my everyday life, but I know what Darkness is capable of. I'm also aware that the first time Darkness chose, the girl had to be killed."

"A life for all lives."

I felt my fists tense, after hearing that cliché. At that moment, all I wanted was to return home, see my family, and say hi to Hat… Hatto. Like a flash, the memory returned - the woman, the boy… the shadow. I retched and kecked, covering my mouth with dirty hands. And just as suddenly, Anjiru draped her wings around me. She smiled, her eyes gazing at me caringly.

"Remember, none of that will happen if you do what's right."

I expected something a little sweeter – that statement almost defined a forceful order. But it didn't matter, the action was all that counted and I was grateful for it.

…

…

…

Light welcomed my eyes, whilst voices penetrated my head. Above dangled a blurry chandelier, green vines resting against the wooden walls. A desk had been placed at the farthest corner, metal panels floating next to every electronic device – able to connect to a mecha-nervous system at contact. I could still feel a warm embrace, but it wasn't Anjiru, this was a different sensation. Slowly, the view turned clear. A single voice desperately called out to me. A red sea brushed against my face, whilst mighty brown orbs pierced through mine. Child hands were wrapped around tense shoulders, until the tension dispersed. I exhaled a sigh of relief. I could hear it – the beating heart that I would protect with my life.

"Onee-sama! Onee-sama! Please wake up, or Hatto will be lonely… Hatto doesn't want to be lonely… so open your eyes. And it's almost dinner! Hatto will eat Onee-sama's dinner if she doesn't wake up…!"

I chuckled, no matter how painful it was for her to hold a tear avalanche, she never cried. All just so I would see a smile when I'd wake up. And I did. I fixed a hair behind her tiny ears, lifting myself up. I asked her, gently patting her head. "How long have I been asleep?"

The red-haired girl withdrew her arms, jumping off the bed and twirling around its edges. She counted, stretching a finger after every number. She raised her delicate hands, showing five fingers on her right hand and only 2 on the other – keeping her thumb, ring finger and pinkie hidden in a fold. "Well, you came at two o'clock and it's already nine, so you've been down for seven hours."

"What a good girl, you're counting even faster than I can." She returned a sweet giggle, hence grabbing my hand in order to pull me off of the bed.

She dragged me, guiding my limbs outside. She turned her head slightly, her left eye now fully visible to me. "Come on! The dinner ball rang 48 minutes ago!"

"W-What?" I pressed my foot on the ground, immediately preventing that Hatto would take another step. "Hatto… you waited that long for me?"

"Why wouldn't I?" Raising an eyebrow, she winked at me. For something bizarre reason, Hatto had been constantly mimicking my cryptic side. Yet, despite the fact it was beginning to irritate me, I couldn't go berserk on her. It was fun for her and I respected that.

I decided to counterattack, grinning, "Why wouldn't you?" It took one simple question to defeat her – her gloomy face tilting down. But what happened next was obvious to me. She sprinted as high as she could and clung to me. We both had strange habits; at least that's what I thought.

She exclaimed, "Because someday, Hatto will be just like Onee-sama!"

"Oh, you'll be much more than that." From this point on, I knew she wouldn't' release me from her loving hold, so I carried her. Since no one else besides my parents were here, I jumped on the golden railing, violet orchids being wrapped around it. How did I know no guests were present? Because Fye, my friend and most loyal servant, would have stopped us on our tracks.

After gracefully landing. I stood before the metallic door. Compared to most of the doors in the palace, made with solid wood and connected to a device that could be opened through the mecha-nervous system, this one was different. Instead of opening by dividing itself into two separating parts, this door unlocked diagonally. Only two doors were built using such design – the front door, the dinning room and the court, all located on the first floor.

Approaching the three gears, all centred in the middle, I linked myself telepathically. I used my mecha-nervous system – a microscopic device, connected to the Cerebrum, the brain's largest part, its function mostly associated with action and thought. With this, I accessed the door's security system – entering the code. I unlocked it. I carried my sister to her gold-framed wooden seat, consequently guiding myself to my respectful spot. I turned to face my parents – Alice and Soren, the King and Queen of Linphea.

Mama smiled at me, expecting to hide her overflowing worry. "How are you feeling, my dear?"

"Baffled, demented… with a slight touch of lassitude." Mama laughed, Hatto joining her a second later. Yet Papa, now he didn't show any sign of amusement.

He leaned his head against his bounded hands, pressing his chin on his knuckles. "Nature, this is no time for games. What happened to you could have resulted as a lethal illness – even worse – death."

I crossed my arms, giving him a serious response. "Papa, are you expecting me to control my way of thinking?"

"I'm asking you to keep your feet well grounded. Your teachers have already sent 36 letters, concerning your perennial manifestations of exiguous focus. Daydreaming can betide anyone, but this constantly? It's ludicrous!"

Hearing Papa speak in such complex terms verified how serious he was. Perhaps I needed to explain what happened during that devastating memory. I nodded – this was for the best. However, to accomplish this, I needed to announce my becoming into a chosen one. I took a deep breath. "I was chosen, Papa."

He looked surprised, as if he had completely forgotten why I left home in the morning. His eyelids fell, whilst he replied. "Then I presume you have something to tell us?"

A long silence accompanied that question, until I cut right through it. "I was chosen… by a Legend."

"What!?" Papa slammed his fists on the table. Mama cried. And Hatto had the same expression I did – utter confusion.

"Soren…" Mama gazed at my father, an agitated look on her face.

Papa stood up, covering half of his face with a trembling hand. "No… how could this happen… fourteen years… fourteen years of peace and prosperity…" His hand tensed. "… Worse… my own daughter… God… why?"

"Papa, what's going on?" I begged for an explanation.

"Fye." My mother summoned a black-haired man. "Would you escort Hatto back to her room?" The man nodded, unlocking the door with my previous method. The red-haired girl caught a last glimpse at me. She was worried. The door closed and only my parents and I were left. My mother faced me, speaking in a hesitated manner. "Nature… two years before your birth, a monster, unidentified then, appeared out of nowhere…. It destroyed everything, along with a shadow army, under his command. The most powerful generals – shadows that resembled our race – sent their squadrons to attack every planet, specifically, the capitals: Verona, the capital of Solaria, Atlantis, the capital of Andros and the last hope for all – Framukior, our capital."

Limbs shivered, as fists and teeth clenched. Even without a mirror, I could still see my tilted face gradually darkening, clearly. "Killing…. For no… reason…?"

"They had one reason." Instantaneously, I faced my mother. "The monster… Darkness… in order for it to be free, it needed a vessel, but that wasn't enough."

"What else did they need?"

Mama sighed and shot a dark glare at me. "300 million lives…" I gasped. "… slaughtered for power. It was necessary for Darkness to obtain enough power to expand chaos in every galaxy. If victorious, shadows would have been the only living race remaining in the Light Circle. Our race, including the human race that we have vowed to protect as well as our own… would have ceased to exist."

I lifted myself from the wooden seat, approaching an opulent window. Placing a hand on the crystal clear glass, I bit my lips, nerves cautiously crawling outside. From the corner of my eye, I watched my father closing in on me. He looked down and spoke. "Nature, do you remember what I told you? About who I used to be?"

"Yes, Papa was originally a commoner. It was because…" Then I realised his point. "… you assisted in a war and once victorious, Grandpa allowed you to become king, Papa! Are you the warrior who sealed Darkness away in that gate?" He nodded, provoking another gasp out of me. "I… I-"

"Do you know why the Legends were sent here?" I shook my head, caught off guard. "They are a warning. You telling me that a Legend chose you; proves that the Light Circle is in danger. I'm not completely sure what the Legends are planning to do, but what I do know is that your life at risk. I cannot allow my daughter to die. Which is why you'll be enrolled into the Swordsmanship Institution immediately."

I blinked twice, wincing back. "B-But Papa! What do you mean by dying? No one is after me."

My father grabbed my shoulders, sternly looking at me. "Danger is not after you, you are going after danger. That's the difference."

"What kind of danger?"

"Nature – you have been chosen by a Legend – the most powerful spiritual animal that ever set a step on this earth. They are legends. I have experienced this menacing situation before and I am well aware of how many lives are at risk. The first time Darkness appeared, 40 million people died."

… I leaned my head down, staring at the titanium floor, disguised as marble. "… You are asking me to prepare myself to fight at your side. In other words, assist in destroying Darkness, instead of sealing it."

"Perhaps the Legends plan to unite their chosen ones to form the ultimate team. That's still undetermined. However, if you became the warrior I see inside you, victory will not only be ours – I'll also have you in my protection, as well as your mother and sister." He held my cheek, smiling lovingly at me. But, I still felt myself drowning in bewilderment.

"Papa – if you are sending me away to grow into a warrior, telling me that I'll be protected by you after makes it… pointless."

"We are your parents." My mother intercepted. "It's our duty to protect the two of you, with our lives."

They locked me inside a loving embrace, holding me close. I loved them – I truly did. Yet I couldn't banish that memory, that little boy. I told myself that it would never happen. I felt myself exasperate, anger flourishing inside. I would never allow it.

Ever.

…

…

…

…

"You are enrolling into the Swordsmanship Institution!?" My father had forbidden any mentioning about planning to stop Darkness, including being the chosen one of a Legend. But, there was one special case that could only know about the Legend matter. "That's insane! Only the most reckless girl would enrol there!"

I laughed nervously, "I'll only be attending the summer course – and that's only in the weekends."

"That's not my point! Nature, that place was purposely built for boys to learn combat skills. I even heard that Xanblacor is taught there, if you meet the conditions of the Mastery class." She sighed, crossing her arms.

Communicating telepathically used to be popular, yet as time went by, the safety of the individual's opinion was in danger. Everyone could read your thoughts. And thus, holographic panels, wirelessly connected to the mecha-nervous system would be available, whilst talking telepathically became a crime – against the law. Only family was the exception.

I smiled at my platinum-blonde-haired friend, amused at her worried expression. "Eight lessons, Ria. That's all I need. The first lesson will be judging every student's skill level. Heinrich-sensei takes the Novice class, whilst Adelulf-sensei is in charge of the Mastery class." She brought a hand towards her face, leaning against it.

"Hmm… I don't know. Xanblacor requires the cooperation between a Spiritual Animal and their chosen one."

"Ria, I won't be selected-" she interrupted me.

"But whatif you are? Revealing Anjiru would mean betraying your father." My galaxy-eyed friend tilted her head down, in thought. "I've already practiced summoning Ban out my body and it's working. But he's an ordinary spirit and even he makes me tired. If Legends truly are ginormous, how do you expect to control it and have enough energy to fight?"

As much as it hurt, she was right. I couldn't foresee the future and Anjiru was a Legend. All known would explain what they were; yet not how different they were compared to other spirits. I sighed. "I don't know. But I can't turn back now – my father already sent the papers."

"Then I guess I'll enrol too."

…

… "What!?" Abruptly, I fell off my bed, legs still lying on the mattress. "W-Wait a second…!"

Ria placed her hands together, stars sparkling within her eyes. "Together we'll become the first girls to ever learn Xanblacor, the supreme team! We'll loved by everyone, and the best part…" She yelled at an… uncommon high pitch. "I'll get to see my prince every week~! Oooooh Manuel~!" She heavily flopped onto her chair, repeating his name, whilst holding her cheeks and releasing girly laughs. "Manuel~! Manuel~! Manuel…!"

I covered my ears – her squeaky voice had reached an unbearable volume. I wasn't even surprised when every window glass and lamp in her room shattered in pieces. Never had it occurred, maybe Ban was the cause. I asked her, hoping a change of subject. "R-Ria, is it true that Spiritual Animals can affect you?"

She froze instantly, replaying. "Of course! Let me see… today I went swimming at my family's indoor pool." She closed her eyes, stretching her pointing finger to the ceiling. "I wanted to relax a little, so I went alone." She frowned, "But then, when I dived in, my hair changed colour!"

I gasped. "I-It did!?"

"Yeah! And that's not all – I was so shocked, I let all the air out and… I could breath – underwater!"

"Wow." Eyes winked twice, before I climbed up, lying flat on my back.

"Hey! That reminds me, Anjiru is an eagle right? Maybe you gained the power to fly!" Ponds snapped open, in disbelief.

I exclaimed, "That can't be! Ria, no one has ever been chosen by a flying animal before. And if they had, the only obtainable powers for them would be the animal's main power, no flight."

My galaxy-eyed friend shrugged, "Sheesh Nature! It's just an idea – it's not like I've got proof." Ria leaned closer to the holographic panel, concerned. "But, you need consider this. When Heinrich-sensei and Adelulf-sensei judge, you can't just come in empty-handed. There has to be an introduction! And other than the prior interview, you'll need to fight an experienced student in order to grade you and in return, give you a final score and a spot in either class."

"Don't worry Ria, Papa added a letter to my papers. They'll know in advance how complex the situation is."

She sighed, leaning further against her chair. "By the way, how are you feeling?" I blinked twice, dumbfounded. "Ooh, Nature – come on! You crossed the line today! Remember?"

I understood. She was referring to my one-way ticket ride to a faraway daydream. A heavy head leaned down, ashamed. How could I have forgotten? I apologised to her.

My platinum-blonde-haired friend shook her head. "I should be the one saying sorry. I'm supposed to be the one to wake you up every time you daze off…"

Looking at the holographic panel, I noticed the time. It was late. "Let's talk about that at the Institution. Besides, our first lesson is tomorrow."

Ria finally gave up, nodding. Farewells and goodnights were exchanged before finalising our conversation. Once disconnected, I made myself comfortable. Wearing my pearl nightgown, limbs collapsed on the elegant master bed – silky sheets carrying me to a safe wonderland… God willing.

…

…

…

…

The sword was born a part of me. True, Dark Star carried an eternal wish on his shoulders since we first met. Yet, sometimes, I considered my desires heavier. On the fateful day, all fearsome thoughts turned away from that sharp blade. People imagined wounds, pain – even a visit from Death. As usual, I stored away a divergent believe. A sword would prevent that scarred memory from deepening any further. That was the only reason why I stood before my opponent, fate in hand. From the corner of my eye, surroundings were clear. The judges seated at the left side of the arena, whilst crowding students shaped a near-perfect circle around, giving us sufficient combatting space.

Bare words had guided me through the iron doors – colossal locks retaining them. The doors, which Ria and I had used to enter, now closed. From within the crowd, I could hear her recognisable exclaims, her support. I smiled. Even after catching murmurs of how wrong it was for girls to enrol into a 'violent' organisation – I stayed on my optimistic side.

Eyes examined the boy in front of me. I instantly noticed his athletic form, mostly around his arms and legs. His black ruffled hair pointed out in every direction, brown eyes reflecting back at green ponds. I already considered the challenge that stood before me. Out of the blue, Adelulf-sensei rose from his seat.

He bellowed, "All right, let's make this quick. Salamander Hugo versus…" the crowd roared at the sound of the boy's name – he even posed to return the love. Of course, I just rolled my eyes, unsurprised. Yet, I did notice Adelulf-sensei eyeing me. "… Sakurai Nature…" Just what I needed – an unconvinced look from the top-head teacher – was he really doubting me already?

Well, at least the multitude resumed its echoing cries of excitement. Surely the thought of their princess actually fighting in their presence hadn't crossed their minds, though. Not long after, silence made its awaited entrance. A holographic countdown panel, programmed to shout an alarm at ten seconds, had materialised in the centre.

A pounding heart palpitated at every passing digit. I clenched my grip on the metallic handle, as it slowly combined with my hand, assuring no escape. Time continued to tick.

5…

Breathing turned heavy…

4…

I imagined my father teaching me how to hold a sword…

3…

Just another tool…

2…

Just another pulse…

1…

Just another part of me…

START!

I dashed forwards. Limbs bayoneted a trail into the ground. The blade swung downwards, colliding with Salamander's own. Wrestling against each other's strength, the blades bid farewell, before instantly reuniting in a powerful clash. Keeping my firm stance, I flinched slightly, quickly dodging his fist. I enlarged our distance, bending over into a swift back walkover. Once both feet touched the ground, I twirled on the spot, striking the boy's blade mid-way. And just as suddenly, the black-haired boy delivered a blow to my handle, almost knocking it off my grip. I stepped back. His glare resembled that of an actuary. Coldly calculating every move, every impact. But I knew why. He sought for my weakness. That explained the hasty punch – he was struggling.

A smirk was marked sharply on my face. If it were not illegal, I would have plunged into his mind and heard a toiling voice. A voice begging for victory, so no humiliation would befall him. But I didn't care. It wouldn't hurt him anymore than my pain compacted into one dagger anyway.

I leaped sideways, legs whipped up, allowing an aerial to follow. Eyes never lost contact. Salamander immediately lunged for my face, attempting to blind me. Yet his action backfired, for all I needed to elude it was to stride to the side.

"Waaaaaaah!" he cried, falling headlong onto the solid ground, causing a rough dent once he fully landed.

I raised my hand to shield myself from a dust mantle, my breath rasping in my throat. Coughs expelled themselves out, after the smoke reached its highest level of suffocation. Eventually, the haze dissipated. And once I noticed the boy's exposed silhouette in the core of the smoke cloud, I returned to a defensive stance. I scrutinised his every move, his body gingerly becoming an upright position.

Spontaneously, he vanished. I couldn't see anything further than what stood before me. But, I didn't panic. Instead, an inhale was granted approval to enter and flee – soothing the urge to recklessly act using the first idea that would arise. Once calm, I gazed at my sword, catching the sound of footsteps right after. At that moment, I realised what to do. The blade that once pointed to the skies was flipped downwards, its new direction being the ground. Hearing the depredator gradually surrounding its prey, I swung my arm back, forcing the blade to point diagonally upwards. I had not turned, not even peeked and yet I blocked his sword – with no difficulty.

He instantly flipped back, to his left side, thrusting his blade away from mine. He stood bare meters away. I baffled in bewilderment. Was he caught off guard? He literally stamped his every step – it seemed quite obvious that his attempts would fail. I approached him once again, but he refused to counterattack. Salamander simply continued to dodge every swing. Eyebrows furrowed, a worried sensation crawling down my tense spine.

Suspicious – no doubt about that.

I tightened my grip on the handle, pressing the sole of my feet onto the ground, reserving it for the necessary momentum. Knees bent at a well-rounded angle, gaining enough force to strike. I flung the sword back, nearly touching my back. Clashing swords violently met. Yet, he didn't hesitate to retreat. Instead, he battered my blade, almost causing a fall of defeat to my side of the table. And… I returned the favour. In mid-air, I twisted around, keeping my head closest to the ground. Once the blade was close enough, I trashed his sword right out of his hands, whilst I continued to turn relentlessly. The jump's force dispersed, allowing me to firmly land. He winced back, dumbfounded.

Salamander fell on his hands and knees, watching as my stretched hand… caught his sword. Two swords, against bare hands – this signified the end of the match.

Pitch-dark orbs glowered in scepticism. He grunted and cursed under his breath, before quivering. "H-How…? A newbie… d-de…feated… me…?"

I sighed, a frown forming on my face. Limbs guided me towards the desperate boy. I held out his sword, presenting him with my understanding to how he felt. "Fighting to maintain a title will never allow you to focus in battle. After all, your falling would scar you through harsh comments from the people you consider fans." His eyes widened, realising his foolish ambition. "I'd suggest you find yourself I more effective reason to fight."

The boy's head fell heavily down, as his hands held it, knees pressing against it. Eyelids fell for a moment, before I myself perceived a fact. No voice had spoken within the crowd. All I could hear was… silence.

Quietude.

Gaped mouths weightily hung, trembling pupils proving shock. Even Adelulf-sensei had lost his phlegmatic character through empty orbs. Slowly, soft murmurs began to escalate, my name constantly repeating. But as usual, I shrugged them off. I most definitely didn't require another cave filled with gossip clans in my life. To my relief, a cough from the emotionless teacher prevented another word from being spoken. He stood up, summoning an organising panel before him.

He crossed his arms, "And that concludes the last match of the day," he closed the window and darkly glared at the black-haired boy, "Salamander, you shall attend intensive classes for the next seven weeks."

"W-What…!?" He snarled brusquely, clenching his fists.

Then, the serious man switched his attention to me, "And you," Adelulf-sensei shot me an intense gaze. A face squinched, turning away. "I'll be seeing you at Mastery Class, next week." Adelulf-sensei faced the crowd. "The rest of you, return to the waiting chambers. We shall announce which class you will join after the meeting," he nodded, "Dismissed."

Once that word revealed itself, feral animals hurried to the monstrous gates. I laughed nervously – a sweatdrop forming near my temple. I hopped back, avoiding the avalanche. All seats emptied, every soul standing before the only exit. Gates dematerialised into data particles and eventually, the storm eased. I joined the parade, hearing excited voices and rumours spreading – the typical mojo. Yet, before leaving the arena, I caught a whispered conversation between the two combat experts.

Heinrich-sensei scowled, feeling exasperated by his partner's erratic behaviour, "Adelulf! Have you gone mad? An amateur student, in Mastery Class… worse… the Princess!"

"She surpassed my expectations by defeating a student, with two years of experience, in mere two minutes."

"That doesn't explain your impulsive decision." Heinrich-sensei crossed his arms. "Are you certain about this?" The man didn't answer – he didn't need to.

I never found out what came after, for a second passed and I found myself locked within Ria's suffocating arms.

She exclaimed, "You did so well~! I'm so proud of you~!" She rubbed her cheek against mine, smiling brightly.

I gasped, startled. "Ria!" Yet, she squeezed me harder, dragging me out the arena.

We settled into our seats, after passing the metallic Tudor arch, indicating the entrance to the waiting chambers. These were narrow halls, filled with rounded tables and holographic stools – like the academy's victualed plastic-food-making cafeteria. Sadly, I had never left Esperanza to travel anywhere; therefore I could only be inquisitive about it. Were cafeterias always this repulsive? Could it be that cafeterias outside Esperanza were actually delicious?

Out of the blue, I yelped, feeling my hair yanked. I whipped around, to face a demoniac-flamed Ria. Her grip intensified, frightening me. She growled, "Listen here, you pesky daydreamer! I'm done with you ignoring my existence. So from this day forth, I'm gonna shatter that skull of yours until you forget what a reverie is. Understand?"

I nodded, sighing. "Ay, Ay, Captain."

"Good." She released me and let her arms rest on the metallic surface. "I'm serious Nature. One more daze off and you won't only get a major breakdown from me, who knows what you'll receive from your parents! Maybe they'll shove you into a dungeon cell for the next century!"

"Ria, that is just witless. My parents would never in their lives even consider such an outrageous-"

"Hey, newbie! Remember me?" I immediately glanced at my interruption. I frowned – Salamander.

"I do." I answered, placing one hand over the other. "How may I be of assistance?"

"Cut the crap. I came hear to make it clear that I was being easy on you. I mean, come on, none of us have ever had to fight a girl before."

I raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure about that? Because, from what I noticed, you seemed to even struggle from time to time."

He grabbed my collar, bringing my face close to his. "Is that a challenge, newbie!?"

"Oh not in my house." Ria seized his hand and flung her knee at him. She pushed me back, protectively. "Here's something to remember. Nobody messes with my friends." She pointed at him. "Especially my best friend."

"Oh really?" One of the boys nearby taunted. He snatched her shoulder, ready to punch her face. I tried to stop him, but Ria standing before me prevented my attempt…

… yet someone else did. A hand grasped the fist, holding it firmly. Ria opened her eyes, a blissful smile marking her face.

The brunette lured the attacker into his dark glare. He shot him a condescending smirk. "Didn't you hear her, or are your ears malfunctioning?"

"Sh-Sh-Shunsen-sama!" he stuttered, feeling intimidated. He immediately retrieved his hand. "Y-Yes, I d-did."

"Good." Shunsen crossed his arms, as two other boys walked in, one with grey hair and the other with red hair.

"Oh and by the way, don't ever touch my girl again. And that goes for everyone!" The redhead approached me, wrapping his hand around my waist. "Except me of course."

The group eventually left, rumours spreading within the narrow hallway. I was able to catch sudden words, 'Elite Class' being part of the bundle.

I returned from my wonderland, when I recalled having Magobei right next to me. He grinned. "You okay, darling?"

With no words, I shoved his arms back at him. "Humph." I stamped away, irritated.

Magobei gasped. "W-Wait! What did I say?"

I turned my gaze to Ria and Shunsen, noticing her blushing cheeks. Clearing my throat, I caught their attention. "Pardon me, but what are you guys doing here?"

"We are in Adelulf-sensei's Elite Class. You need minimum five years of training in order to surpass Mastery Class." Yatsuhiro explained.

"Speak for yourself." Magobei shouted. "Adelulf-sensei only let me into his boat after six years!"

"That's because you couldn't add the word 'defence,' or anything related to your vocabulary." Shunsen pointed out.

Magobei and Shunsen glared at each other, emitting sparks. I waved my hands, in attempt to stop them. "H-How about you give us a tour around the institution?"

"Splendid idea!" Yatsuhiro stepped forwards. "Follow me, please."

The grey-haired boy escorted us, whilst Shunsen and Magobei kept sharp eyes at each other. Ria had given up on calming the duo down and was about to drift to sleep mid Yatsuhiro's oral documentary. Only I maintained interest. Swordsmanship Institution claimed to be Linphea's best learning industry, specialised in both offense and defence. The structure: two outer walls surrounding an area with a diameter of 250 meter. Inside the first outer-wall were the classrooms, whilst training centres had been placed within the second outer-wall. What stood out from the boy's report was how old the institution was. 30 years, yet it still seemed brand new.

Having already scanned the first outer-wall, Yatsuhiro introduced the second. "And this is the second outer-wall, built for private fights and class sessions. 60 percent of this wall is occupied by Novice Class, 20 percent by Master Class and 10 percent by Elite Class…"

"I still can't believe I'm going to Novice Class!" Ria pouted. I placed a hand on her shoulder.

"You did great Ria." She smiled, as we continued to follow Yatsuhiro.

"Mou, don't they know enough? Let's go train or something!" the redhead stamped his way towards the grey-haired guide. "Come on Yatsuhiro! I'm dying of boredom here."

"Oh shut up, Magobei. The only thing you ever do is complain." Shunsen remarked, provoking a growl from the redhead.

Ignoring the duo, I glanced at a training room. I peeked from the corner of the window. I gasped. Inside the room was a certain blue-haired boy, shooting punches and kicks at holographic warriors, armed with swords and guns, two meters in length. He swiftly flipped backwards, dodging his opponents, shoving them at each other – leaving me speechless.

Ria noticed this, waving a hand in front of me. "Hey, you okay? What- Whoa!" Her eyes widened.

"He's amazing, isn't he?" I watched as Shunsen approached the window. "I didn't know of him until he joined our group at Radzahi – only knew of someone who resembled him through rumours."

"That boy is the first to ever join Adelulf-sensei's Mastery Class right after Judgement and becoming an Elite Class member two years after."

I faced Yatsuhiro and switched back to the window. "Two years!?"

Ria smirked at Magobei. "Well, it looks like he surpassed you Magobei." The redhead clenched his fists, resisting the temptation to punch her. Yet I baffled, watching as he stopped himself. Never had I seen him do something intelligent before.

But the blue-haired boy grabbed my attention again, as he defeated the last opponent once standing. Every hologram dematerialised, scattering in data cubes. He bowed and picked up his athletic bag from the timber floor. He made his way to the exit. I flinched, already imagining Magobei shooting insults at him.

I instantly sprinted in front of him, being the first one to see the boy. I greeted him. "Hi! It's nice to see you again…!" My voice trailed off, realising my abruptness. I felt myself blush a little, after hesitantly saying his name, "…I-Ijuin-san…"

Lucky for me, Shunsen intercepted. "Dude! You're amazing!"

"Oh I have a better word." Yatsuhiro cleared his throat. "Ijuin, you are… supercalifragilisticexpialidocious."

"What does that even mean?" Magobei asked. Enraged, Ria delivered a heavy punch to his stomach. He retched, withstanding the urge to bid his lunch farewell.

"Idiot! That's a childhood classic!" Ria shook her fist at him, whilst the rest of us guffawed at the humiliated comedian.

I shifted my glance back, observing how a small smile bloomed on Ijuin-san's face. But then, I realised a crucial event, ought to never be forgotten and yet it did. I covered my mouth, horrified.

Ria's eyebrows furrowed, concerned at my expression. "What's wrong Nature? You're scaring the petals right out of me…"

"Hatto..."

"Hatto?"

I looked at galaxies, ponds trembling. "Her belated birthday party is tomorrow… and I forgot to buy her a gift!"

"Oh that's right. We planned to go shopping after our trip to Radzahi… but you were sent home because of your incident… so I went by myself."

"Do you have any spare time left?" I begged for her to accept my petition.

Yet, she answered the opposite. "Sorry."

I sighed, "Babysitting, again?"

"That's the deal. And if I don't accomplish that, Mama will not only forbid me from attending the ball – I might never see a sauna till the day I get married!" She grabbed my hands, desperate. "And you know how grumpy I get without my weekly sauna session."

I laughed nervously. "Then I guess I'll see you tomorrow."

She nodded, facing Shunsen. "You live on my street, right? Karinhalle?"

"Yeah, how did you know?"

She grabbed his wrist. "Lucky guess. Come on Manuel, let's go!"

"H-Hey!" He stumbled, eventually matching her speed. Alice followed the rushing bunny, the rest of us chasing after them. We exchanged waves at the entrance – 3 o'clock being the digits on the clock.

Yatsuhiro sighed, disappointed. "Well, I guess that's the end of today's tour."

"Don't worry Yatsuhiro-san, I'm sure we can spare some time next week." I bowed at him. "Have a good afternoon."

"Same to you." He returned a bow, in a lower version. "… Your Highness." And he walked away.

At that moment, I spotted Ijuin-san taking my everyday route, as well as the grin of a pervert.

I heard the boy speak, "Well then… now that we're alone…" Magobei's mouth heavily dropped to the ground. "Eh?" He switched to the opposite direction, eyes widening. "What!? Hey! That's not fair! How come he gets her attention!? What does he have that I don't!?"

I chuckled, listening to the redhead's pouts from afar. After enjoying the entertainment, I looked at the blue-haired boy, filled with wonder. Why hadn't he showed the slightest sign of interest so far? Why did he only smile? Had he taken an oath of silence throughout his training? It couldn't be, for he had answered my inquiries at Radzahi. Yet I couldn't help but ask myself. He was so appealing to me, provoking an urge to help him in any way.

I decided to finally end the eternal silence. "So, what motivated you into joining the Institution?" I held the hem of my blouse, feeling a brittle crawling sensation.

Unexpectedly, he replied. "My father."

Such a short replay left me a little down, drowning inside my own melancholy. Yet, I lost all senses when I heard him speak once again. "He… started the woodworking family business." A smile embraced my lips, as he continued. "I watched my father build wooden sculptures in a daily basis. He inspired me to learn and someday, I will make him proud – by winning in the Xanblacor Galactic Tournament."

"A-Are you serious..?" I looked down, gradually feeling ecstatic. "That's incredible! I'd love to cheer you in the crowd."

He flinched back – startling me once again. "You… wish to support me?"

"Of course!" I nodded contented, later recalling a certain about to be overdue gift. "Wait, does your father still work at the shop?"

He shook his head. "No, he retired years ago…"

At the peak of losing hope, he pointed out my salvation. "… but my mother still works there."

I jumped in delight, returning to my lively state. "Well, I need to buy a gift for my sister." I scratched my cheek. "Is the shop accepting costumers at this hour?"

He nodded.

That was all I needed to heave a sigh of relief. "Good, because this client is desperate. Will you take me there?"

He walked forwards, as I followed him, keeping a firm meter distant. In no conditions would I disrupt someone's personal space, especially a boy I had just recently met. But then I remembered how much trust had already bonded us. Thinking of such a wonderland formed a smile.

"May I ask the reason to be amused?"

Snapping back to reality, I hesitantly replied. "N-Nothing… I just think we are getting along quite well…"

"I see." Those two words – so simple and yet so mesmerising.

Eventually, we arrived at the shop. An elegant title was carved at the entrance. 'Holztraumen' meaning a wood dream in German. I raised an eyebrow, besides Anilux, German seemed to be fairly popular in those days. Ijuin-san unlocked the door, using his mecha-nervous system, stretching a hand inside, motioning me to enter. I cautiously walked inside, wrecking with nerves. I scanned the timber walls, wooden shelves keeping miniature statues and puppets well organised. Scarlet Pimpernels decorated the front windows, gracefully embracing distant corners. A heavenly light brightened a wooden desk, a voice calling out from its direction.

"Helio! What happened? It's not common for you to come home late. Did Adelulf-san force you to stay again? Are you injured? I bought new bandages today, do you…" The woman's voice trailed off, "… need them…"

Two pairs of green eyes gazed at each other. Her shoulder-length black hair flowed elegantly down, wrinkles barely tracing her pale face. She wore a grey dungaree and brown boots, tightened in crossed strings. But what left me astonished was her smile - the smile of a caring mother.

I bowed, introducing myself. "Good afternoon, Madame. Is the shop still open?"

"It is. Are you looking for something special?" Her eyes shifted to her son. "Perhaps for a special someone?"

For a second, I noticed waving hands behind me. But Ijuin-san seemed calm enough, thus I could only feel a suspicious tension. I answered her question. "Yes, my sister."

"Oh. And how old is she?"

"She is six years old and she loves dolls, however… I'm certain the majority of the guests will give her such presents. I wanted to provide her with something related to her favourite animal, cats." I explained, following the woman as she turned to her left.

She tapped on a holographic panel and slid a glass door open. Inside were beautiful lockets, hanging from purple flowers. I reached for a gold-framed locket, an astonishing hearted diamond glimmering from afar. The only defect – it presented no relation with cats. The woman must have caught my depressed orbs, placing a hand on my shoulder.

"Come sweetie, I'm sure I can fix that for you." She took the locket from my hands, laying it on her desk. Her fingers tapped on the wooden surface….

… and the locket scattered, its remains floating in the air. I gasped, but Ijuin-san stood next to me, nodding. The woman gracefully pressed screens, expert fingers moving the pieces around. Out of the blue, a holographic cat materialised, centred inside the sphere.

The woman glanced at me. "Would you like me to apply a music-box structure to the locket?"

"Ah, yes. I'd love that."

"Very well, just tell me what song you'd prefer."

I thought for a moment. "Hmm… Hatto loves so many songs and fairy tales…"

"Does she have a favourite flower?" The woman suggested.

"Flower? Oh yes! She loves lilies… and that's the name of her favourite song… Lilium!"

She froze. I watched her tremble, causing me to feel uncomfortable. "That song…" I flinched, "That song…" she stood up, "… is my ultimate-favourite!"

Ijuin-san face-palmed as I chuckled. He sighed, "Mother…"

The woman resumed her work, "Your sister has a wonderful taste. Allow me, I'll assure you that this gift will be something she'll never forget!"

"T-That's great." I laughed nervously, approaching the desk.

She handed the locket to me, wrapped and inside a ruby box, beaming a smile. "A cat will come out every time she opens the locket, hence playing the song."

"Thank you very much. And I'd like to introduce myself before I leave. I am Sakurai Nature, it's an honour to meet you."

"There is no need to. I'm well aware of who you are. I'm sure you will become the most extraordinary queen." She placed a hand on her cheek. "Oh silly me! I haven't presented myself formally. My apologies." She bowed, "My name is Ijuin Scarlatta, but please call me Scarlatta. I prefer the informality.

"I understand, good night Scarlatta-san." I faced Ijuin-san. "Well, I guess I'll be seeing you at the party, right?"

He winced back, "I-"

"YES!" Both of us looked at the ecstatic woman. "Don't worry Princess, I assure you that I won't allow that boy inside this house until he makes an appearance!"

"Good." I waved at him. "See you tomorrow, Ijuin-san!"

"Goodbye."

The door automatically opened, allowing me to exit the shop. I turned right, visualising the palace around three blocks further ahead. I made my way around every corner, feeling content. How could this day have gone any better? I had been accepted into Mastery Class, enjoyed a history tour together with my incredible friends and I got to see Ijuin-san again. This day had most definitely surpassed my morning expectations. Yet, for the first time since the previous day, I felt a sudden headache.

I reached for my forehead, wetting a hand with cascading sweat. What was happening to me? Staggering at that point, I leaned onto a titanium wall, sinking to my knees. The pain transformed, becoming a piercing blade. A sharp scream escaped shuddering lips. I didn't care about other souls passing by, or attempting to drift into their own nightly slumbers. The pain was almost intoxicating – inevitable.

Only then I heard a voice – the voice of a baleful demon. I listened intently.

"You must be wondering who I am. Well, I'll just clarify my reason to be in need of contacting you. You, the light torturing me throughout my life, have left a crack on my eternal chains. I'm just warning you. Very soon, my master shall return and destroy all this damned peace. So, if you need more time, I'd suggest you keep up with your daydreaming. For the more you attach yourself to reality, the sooner we'll be seeing each other."

I shouted. "The light torturing you? What are you talking about!? Who are you!?"

"… Hanarin, General of Darkness and your shadow since birth."

"Shadow? You mean…" I remembered the nightmare, a mother watching their angel die before them. I clenched my teeth. "So in other words… you are the one I hate most."

"Smart girl. Yes, I am and you are the one I hate most. So, figure this riddle out, Einstein… what would the one that hates you most do to destroy from the inside out?"

I felt untameable tears flee my eyes. Orbs trembled, terrified. "Wait...!" No response.

I shrunk once again, keeping my face firmly pressed against my knees. Tears wetted red cheeks, flooding hands. I clenched them into fists, lifting my face to the skies.

"God… what's happening?"

Loud footsteps echoed from far away, increasing in volume every passing second. Eventually, I met with bright sapphires, filled with… concern?

"Sakurai-san! Are you all right?"

Quietude settled in, as I registered my current state. If I had been fully conscious, embarrassment would have plunged at me. But, all I could feel was a sore head and burning cheeks. Only his voice was clear.

He placed his hands on my shoulders, trying to awaken a resting soul. "Sakurai-san! Get a hold of yourself!"

Slowly, the blurriness vanished and my eyes focused. The boy pulled me up, questioning my state. "What happened? I heard your screaming."

"I…" stammers were all I could release from within. "I don't know…" Yet what I did know was how close those fifty centimetres from his face seemed. I blushed, stepping back. "Th-Thank you…"

He frowned, leaving me baffled, "Sakurai-"

"Onee-sama!"

I gasped, praying to the heavenly Lord that it wasn't whom I thought it was. His plan most probably resulted otherwise. From the distance, I spotted a rushing figure – it was she.

"Hatto! What are you doing here!?" The red-haired girl panted, as I kneeled to meet gazes at her eye level. "You know it's dangerous to walk by yourself at this hour."

She grasped for air, exclaiming. "Mama… Papa… everyone's asleep! They won't wake up!"

"What!?" I shifted my eyes to a darkening sky, a gust of deadly wind penetrating my skin. I instantly wrapped Hatto protectively, feeling a pair of strong arms shielding me as well. I looked over Ijuin-san's shoulder, eyes widening.

I forced the name out, almost choking. "…. Darkness."

Even if only an image was visible, he could still show his destructive power. A pair of red eyes incensed the dark-pitch void. A menacing voice – echoing from within.

"Guardians…. Here the voice of your temptation… for I have chosen… and soon… he will destroy all that you care for… traumatizing you… torturing you… killing you… he shall become my eternal servant…. Anjiru…. Visvasa… Kuraga… Valentine… your Guardians had better be ready… and you… Guardians… foolish beings… with the chaos bestowed in me… I curse you under my name…. from this day forth… I swear your deaths shall be most… excruciating…"

After the last word reverberated, lighting struck the ground. I gasped, feeling as Ijuin-san tried to lift me up. But it was too late, for seconds after, a lightning spear targeted me, clashing against my forehead. I screamed, the intense burning raising me to the air. My limbs shook out of control, roaming every inch and every cell. I clenched my teeth, unsuccessfully enduring the pain. It was only a few seconds after of experiencing hell that the pain stopped. I collapsed, feeling myself within firm arms. Before I lost the drop of energy I had left, eyes overcame the limit that once prevented me from seeing far. Pouring ran dropped on my face, one drop showing my reflection. I watched as my eyes focused as if part of a computer. And that moment, moments before being engulfed by darkness, I spotted a crystal, embraced by heavenly…

…white wings.

GN2012: Honestly, I don't know what to say. Please, just leave a review to show me your support and just tell me…

… would you like another episode?

GN2012: Coming Soon… Withering Rose.

Ending Song:

Fureta

yubisaki

Kokoro tomoshite

Nagaredasu senritsu

Ai o nozomu

Kizutsuketa eda no saki

Kuchite yuku sadame na no ?

Tozasareta toki no hazama ni mayoikonda

Chiisana hikari no shizuku

Yume no owari tada kimi dake o negau

Hitomi ni utsuru

Gin no tsukikage

Yasurakana senritsu

Douka towa ni

Kizamiyuku hari no oto

Aragaenu sadame na no?

Chigirareta kono gensou o tsutsumikonda

Utsuro na hikari no rasen

Motomeru no wa tada shiawase na kotae

Hari iro no toki no hazama ni michite yuku yo

Odayaka na hikari no shizuku

Yume no owari tada sore dake o negau