AA-Chan: My apologies for the late chapter; I participated in National Novel Writing Month (met my 50,000 word goal btw), so my focus was elsewhere. Nevertheless! I hope you are enjoying the story thus far! Thank you for the reviews/critique and the inspiration to continue! In this chapter, you'll discover a small reason why I went from T to M rating; please enjoy this chapter!

Disclaimer: Refer to Prologue.

Warnings: Language and strong sexual/adult content. If you are uncomfortable with mature/adult content with sexual undertones, I suggest you discontinue reading parts of this chapter; warnings will be indicated with /M/M/M/ before and after scenes.

Chapter Six: Imagine

Kai shakes head incredulously. "Wait, wait a minute. You truly believe that this red-eyed man is still alive, despite some prejudice law that decrees all red-eyed beings be put to death? How would we find him? What if he's not even a man, but still some kid!"

Rei still would not be persuaded otherwise. "He's alive, why else would you be sent here, now of all times instead of before all of this? Maybe the Helonix is awakening in this man, triggering you to come from your world to mine! It's like you're the key being drawn to this imaginary locked door!" The raven-haired youth grins, arms spread out in an excited gesture. "Don't you see?"

"Rei, I don't…" Before Kai answers, he studies his friend's face. Those brightly colored eyes, highlighted in exhilaration, match the handsome smile across his tanned jaw and cheeks. In his wildest imagination, the Russian could never picture his dear friend this happy and so hopeful, no matter how many times he imagined himself being the reason for Rei's current happiness. Kai takes in a small breath and begin his statement again. "Rei, I will do what I can to find this man in reality. You're right, maybe the door from my dreams in Limbo is a clue to finding this man."

His best friend laughs and rushes into Kai whose arms were prepared for an embrace.

He was not, however, prepared for the kiss.

Rei, in all his excitement, places a kiss on Kai's lips with closed eyes. Kai has an astonished look on his face. Yet his arms encircle Rei's waist, pulling him closer to him. He relaxes his eyes, closing them to savor Rei's lips. Rei slowly opens his eyes, his cheeks turning red with embarrassment. He quickly pulls away, sensing confusion from Kai. The Dreamation Seer bites his bottom lip, looking down to avoid staring into Kai's eyes which are hidden behind the enchanted eyewear.

"I, um… I'm sorry, I got really excited, I-I…" Rei rubs his hands together in front of him and glances toward the cycle's hourglass. "I, I have to go. I'm sorry- I'll try to meet you again and warn you if anything dangerous comes your way!" Rei turns away to quickly exit Kai's dreams. Kai stretches out his hand a bit too late and drops it in awe.

The Russian stares off into the mental distance, fingers touching his lips. His mouth slight turns up dwelling on the most recent event until he is genuinely smiling at the overflowing rush of feelings. Fortunately Rei left, yet Kai would not admit out loud that Rei's kiss made him the happiest man alive.

The Russian briefly closes his eyes to distract himself from his thoughts diving too much into that kiss. Yet, despite that kiss, he glances down in humility, thanking whoever for blessing him with Rei. Kai prepares to leave his dream when he hears a lullaby in the distance.

'Where have I heard this song before?' He stares into the horizon, trying to locate the source of that soft song. There! Across the swaying meadows, he sees a figure, the sun's light blocking Kai's vision, even with the tinted spectacles. The lullaby begins to fade away, its lyrics floating in the distant breeze. Where has he heard this song before?-

/.../end/.../

Kai wakes up, squeezing his eyes shut before attempting to fully open them. His hand slides across his cheek and under his spelled eyewear to press into his eyes, clearing away any sleep and tears-.

He jolts into a sitting position, gazing at the moisture on his fingertips. Was he crying in his sleep? Was it because of that song? With that current question, the lullaby still lingers in the back of his mind. Where has he heard that song before? Or did he imagine it? He rubs his fingertips together to wipe away the moisture. Besides the questionable song, Kai remembers Rei-

The Russian smiles softly to himself, pausing his finger movements. Rei kissed him. Granted in his dream, but the actual Rei kissed him. He felt like his friend was embarrassed at the action, but Kai did not once regret his own reaction to the kiss. This dream, in his opinion, is the best one so far: he witnessed Rei's happiness, he received a kiss from his best friend, and that lullaby actually made him feel comforted. He can honestly admit that he actually had a good night's rest and is ready to confront the others.

He gets out of bed, dressing and grooming himself before heading downstairs to the eatery area. He hears the din of a large crowd and catches Takao's laughter among the noise. Kai dims his smile to a small one as he completes his journey down the stairs. The foreigner eyes the crowd, noticing five different groups scattered in the dining area and two maidens serving the patrons. Mr. D stands behind the counter, topping off a mug for the Prophet who sits at the bar. His friends, the secret Opposers, sit at the table they were at last night. Kai sees the smiles on all of their faces until Kenny looks up. His smile disappears and lowers his head, causing a chain reaction from Max to Takao. Oliver, meanwhile, smiles and lifts his glass to Kai.

"Good morning my new friend! Did you sleep well?"

Kai nods and takes a seat next to Max. He places his hand on Max's shoulder, giving it a reassuring squeeze and a smile, before answering Oliver. "Yes, I did sleep pretty well actually," he drops his hand onto the table. "I think I worked off my anger cleaning this place."

"Ar-are you sure?" asks Kenny, rubbing two fingers together. "Kai, we didn't mean to keep it a secret-"

"Guys," Kai leans over the table top, looking into the eyes of each of his friends. "I understand that you had to keep… that a secret. You felt threatened and didn't know what to do," he runs his hand through his two-toned locks. "I was just hurt that you didn't trust me, but I understand the secrecy because you were actually trying to protect me while still figuring out what the hell is going on. So," Kai leans back in his chair and flipped his palms up in a kindhearted gesture. "All is forgiven. Can we please work through this thing together? No more secrets?"

After an awkward moment of pause, Max smiles and nods. "Agreed!" Oliver beams and claps in a delightful manner.

Takao, sitting across from Kai, laughs and slams his hand down flat onto the table surface. "Well, I'll be cursed! I thought you were going to go mad and kill us!"

Kai rolls his eyes. "Don't tempt me," Kai holds back a snicker at Takao's shift from being relieved to alarm. "I'm joking, Takao."

The bluenet slouches in his chair, mumbling, "That's not funny."

The Alchemist, sitting on Max's right, adjusts his glasses. "We're sorry, Kai. Especially me. But if you saw that, that thing, you would have been just as anxious as us."

"He saw it too," Kai quietly says. The young men around the table stare at the Russian who jerks his head towards the stairs. As they all start to stand, the Prophet turns around and grins to the younger group.

"Well, my dudes, I guess it's story-tellin' time!"

...

Two conversation candles flicker in Max's room as the group gather around one another. Kai sits in a chair by the desk; Max and Takao sit on the bed to his left; Oliver sits in the other chair on Kai's right; and Kenny and the Prophet sit on the floor by the end of the bed, opposite of where Kai sits. The Russian takes a quiet breath and tells the group about Rei's incident in the bastard's dream: how their powerful friend saw those nightmarish eyes. After a couple of outbursts from Takao, Kai then concludes his story with the meeting he had with Rei in his dreams, though he omits the last part of his dream while fighting the blush creeping into his cheeks.

"Rei says that there's a man with red-eyes who knows how to summon the Helonix. I know you don't believe in it, but Rei thinks that this man is somewhere, alive, and trying to get in touch with me because somehow I may have a clue as to locating the Helonix- what?" Kai raises an eyebrow at the shocked faces of his friends minus the smirking Prophet. "Why you are looking at me like that?"

"Kai- you're the man with red-eyes!" exclaims Kenny, jumping onto his feet and pointing. "I saw them! WE saw them!"

Kai rolls his eyes and shakes his head. "Kenny, I'm blind. Maybe whatever this thing that's inside me has red eyes and can shine them, despite my using these goggles."

Oliver jolts out of his chair and covers his gasping mouth. "Are you saying… zat you are ze Helonix?"

"No! I'm just a regular, non-magical human being from a different dimension, maybe brought by the Helonix or the man that summoned it," Kai shrugs his shoulders. "I don't know, maybe the Helonix left a magical impression on me and somehow channels its magic through extreme dangers- wait, what is the Helonix?" Kai glares over to the Prophet who swishes his hands together. "You know something, don't you, sir?"

"I think it's 'bout that time for story number two, little dude," the Prophet leans back, using his arms as a brace for his old body. "Now, you all may be familiar with the Beginnings of our world, but let's catch Kai up to speed, y'all dig?" The Prophet focuses his attention onto Kai. "Some back history 'bout our world. The Deity created our world and everything in it, creatin' a Life balance through the lands. The Deity created multiple Spirits, guardians of this world to make sure everything flourishes in a natural order, from the smallest to the largest, weakest to the strongest. The Deity created other creatures, elves, Fae, and the like to assist the Spirits and guard their sacred homes. All Spirits were equipped with Light, everything that is good and just; so to restore balance, the Deity created humans with a hidden, infectious darkness. Over time, most humans turned into not-so-good beings, while the few are blessed with magic, a gift from the Deity.

"Knowin' that us humans can be corruptible and can be manipulated by our inner darkness, The Ancient One assigned a Spirit to each of the ten Holy families, those able to master their inner darkness and have complete faith in the Deity; the Spirit itself is a blessing and a guardian from any evil-turnin' humans. Any time a Holy family was in danger, one family member can summon their Spirit guardian as protection and help control the treat. Do ya follow, kid?"

Kai, who is leaning onto his knees, nods, fascinated by the myth. The other youths, who know the story, are mesmerized at the history-telling.

"Well, centuries upon centuries past. Humans, including other beings, managed to control their inner darkness, while the ten Holy families ruled over the ten lands: North and South Diichoe, Ishtoch, Sdaroi, Saidaan, Teachaíos, Oehyst, Sapath, Jugosa, and that cursed country of Sjever. Well, families marry or families naturally die out, but a descendant of the Holy family can pass on the family's Spirit guardian to the next worthy person as long as there is some Holy family blood. Now," the Prophet straightens his posture, leaning on his elbows that rest on his folded legs. He interlocks his fingers and hides his mouth behind them for a moment, a sad look passed in his eyes.

"Now, onto more tragic times. Somehow, most of the Spirits… died. Only a few powerful Spirits exist and are in hiding on an aestel plane, a place not to be found by any beings of this world, which I don't blame them. There is a rumor that an entryway is located on the island of Saidaan after followin' the Deity's Footsteps, but that's neither here nor there. Anyway, the most corrupted of humans, like that cursed Imperator's father, decimated the Holy families for their Spirits by usin' Dark Magic and spells for evil purposes, drainin' the Spirit of its magic, its Lifeforce. I wouldn't be surprised if this current bastard sacrificed his family's Spirit to amp up his personal magic."

Kai ignores the low growling coming from Takao, but shares a look of hatred with him. The Russian leans back into the chair and folds his arms. "So this Helonix is a Holy family's Spirit?"

"And one of the most powerful, if I'm not mistaken. Ya see, that story I told ya last night? That woman is a member of the Hiwatari family whose guardian supposedly is the Helonix."

"Is that why that family was treated like royalty?" asks Takao, folding his arms defensively. "Because of some dumb prophecy declaring the Helonix the savior of the world? What a load of shit- OW!" Takao covers his new bruise on the side of head after falling onto his back from the pain. Max nurses his friend as best as he can, while the Prophet, now missing his left shoe, fumes towards Takao.

"Ya darn right! With good reason! Ya see this world were living in now, idjit? It's not suppos'ta be like this at all! Have ya noticed not many beings possess magic anymore? There's a reason behind that!"

"So the bastard could use magic as a weapon of fear," mutters Kai, not focusing on anyone. He furrows his eyebrows, scowling at how he himself can think like the Imperator-bastard. "No one can successfully oppose him without magic and if there is a large quantity of magic in a large group, it wouldn't afflict any damage to his empire."

The Prophet nods gravely. "You are correct. Many creatures believe that the Helonix is a myth, a hidden side of the Deity that will seek destruction of Life as we know it. However, the Helonix will restore the ultimate Life balance across the world and that's why we have to find this Hiwatari descendant at all cost. Undo that cursed brat's damage and restore the natural order."

"What is ze Helonix's magic, sir?" asks Oliver, holding a serious expression. "Will it really cause such destruction to ze world?"

"Well, the Helonix is rumored to possess a fire that can burn the very soul of a being into non-existence. It controls fire that's hotter than any magical or natural fire known in existence, leaving traces of the blackest of ashes, probably from the Abyss- what now?" The Prophet notices most of the attention is now on Kai.

The Russian raises an eyebrow. "What?"

"Ash from the Abyss… that's what Rei told you" whispers Kenny. "That thing said that-" He collapses onto his back, hiding his wails behind his hands. "We're gonna die…"

"No one's gonna die, kid," comforts the Prophet, patting the Alchemist's knee. "All Rei said was that something was going to drag that bastard to the Abyss, nothing about ashes-"

"But we saw the ashes!" Kenny jolts up, startling the old man. "They were scattered everywhere that night we met Kai! And that thing turned those Elites into black ash! Not normal gray ashes, but black ash-it could be from the Abyss!" The auburn-haired youth stands in horror, pointing at the Russian "Kai! You're not the Helonix; the Helonix is in you!"

A heavy silence weighs on the young men. Kai leans his elbows onto his knees once more, his hands cupping his head and its developing headache. 'I can't have the Helonix in me, that's not possible… I'm not from here, I can't possess the Helonix-'

"It's like you're the key being drawn to this imaginary locked door!" The raven-haired youth grins, arms thrown out in an excited gesture. "Don't you see?"

"The door," whispers Kai, lifting his head as the realization dawns on him. He looks over to Kenny. "Kenny, the door! That drawing- Sir," The Russian crosses to the Prophet who smiles up to him. "I had come across this large iron door with some symbols and I think you can help us with that." The Prophet watches Kenny take a knee to fetch out a parchment paper with the symbols and hands it over to him. He examines the symbols, lifting his white eyebrows in surprise.

"I haven't seen these since my childhood days… Not quite Dragonspeak, but I do remember seeing this."

"Do you know what it means?"

"Unfortunately, I do not, but I do know it's an ancient text that the Hiwatari family specifically used to communicate with their Spirit guardian," the Prophet eyes his grandson and nods firmly. "Just like our family, the Kinomiya family, can communicate with our SkyDragon Spirit, Dragoon, back in the long days."

Takao avoids his grandfather's eyes, while Max watches his dear friend in concern. Kenny returns to laying on his back, putting an arm over his eyes, muttering, "I don't feel good right now…"

Oliver purses his lips together and put his hands on his hips. "Well, come what may, we finally have a genuine hope of defeating ze Ice Bastard! It cannot be a coincidence zat ze Helonix is using Kai to keep us safe all zis time! It will be no easy task to find ze Hiwatari descendant, but not impossible! We must spread ze news to every Opposer to keep an eye out for zis red-eyed man!"

Takao nods and stands with confidence. "Right, you're right, Oliver. We stand a huge chance against that bastard and we'll find this guy no matter what! And Kai," he looks over to the mentioned foreigner with a loose smile. "No more secrets."

The Russian smirks and nods, folding his arms across his chest. "Yeah, no more secrets."

"Kai," Max slowly stands and faces him. "You have to tell Rei about all of this. I know it'll be a challenge for Rei, but maybe he can help. He can use the Dream portals to maybe find any traces of a man with red-eyes-"

Kai shakes his head. "I don't want to ask Rei for any favors. He's doing what he has to do to survive in that damned place, but you're right," he unfolds his arms. "I'll tell Rei the next time he visits me in my dreams. It'll give him the hope he needs to better survive."

The half-elf smiles and turns to face the other bluenet. "How's your head?"

Takao sucks in air through his teeth when he touches his bruise. He glares at the Prophet. "It's your fault, old man!"

The elder snubs his grandson, rolling his eyes. "I don't remember causing your idiocy-"

"Because it's genetic." Takao sticks his tongue out. Kenny shakes his head in disbelief, removing his glasses to clean.

"Thus you're further making his point."

"What did you say Kenny!"

"N-nothing! Nothing at all!"

Oliver laughs, careful not to go over a certain pitch to create a melodious laugh. "Now zat everyzing is settled, how about we head into town and gazer supplies? Ze sooner we get it done, ze sooner we can find ze red-eyed man."

"Wait! Wait, wait, wait," Kenny shoves his glasses back onto his nose and looks at Kai. "If you're like the host for the Helonix, what happens to you when the red-eyed man and the Spirit reunite?" A heavier silence weighs the room. The Russian looks up to the Prophet for a clue.

The old man shrugs his shoulders and shakes his head. "Sorry my dude, I don't have all the answers. We can only hope that the Helonix will spare your life for bein' a generous host."

Now that there is a high chance of the Helonix lurking in Kai and not some demon, the Russian mulls over Rei's idea of his going to sleep twice to confront the Spirit. Kai does not want to alarm their friends, especially about the danger of Rei being thrice asleep, yet he feels that they do need to be aware of any possible dangers that come from calling upon the fiery Spirit. However, the Helonix has spared their lives on two separate occasions, so what is the worst that can happen when Kai confronts it? Kai imagines the worst result being death and the Helonix moving on to another host, but he keeps coming back to it saving his life. Ultimately, Kai keeps his and Rei's plans to himself.

Someone on the other side of the door rapidly knocks thrice then knocks twice at a slower pace. The Prophet nods towards the half-elf to answer the door, while Kenny blows out the conversation candles. The group relaxes at the sight of the innkeeper Mr. Daitenji.

"Is everything alright?"

"Everything is right as rain, Mr. D," replies the Prophet, standing to stretch. "We'll have a little chat with you after the close of business," he glances over to Kai. "Mr. D here knows more than I do, so I highly suggest you ask him 'bout his story when you get a chance."

The jolly innkeeper lifts his eyebrows in surprise and smiles at the young men. "I do know quite a bit more, but nothing of value to these strapping young men-"

"I insist," the Prophet walks out the door, patting Mr. D's shoulder before turning down the hall.

The innkeeper nods once and smiles to the Opposers. "I do apologize for intruding, but may I have two volunteers to assist me in the tavern? I have a feeling that we'll be busier than normal."

"I can, but won't I make your customers nervous with my accent?" asks Kai.

"True, true, but there's plenty of cleaning to do if you don't mind dishes and wiping the tables," Mr. D grins after the Russian agrees. "Wonderful, wonderful!"

"I'll help, Mr. D," volunteers Kenny.

"Splendid! What are you three going to do?"

"We'll go into town and gazer what we need," answers Oliver. "Once I get what I need for my travels, I'll help you in ze evening if zat is okay wiz you?"

"That would be fine. You boys be careful in the trading market. Sjeverian soldiers are patrolling further into the market than usual." The three nod and take their leave, waving goodbye to Kai and Kenny. They follow Mr. D out of Max's room and down the stairs, while the innkeeper informs the two of what to expect of the tavern patrons.

...

Kai managed to quickly clean up as customers leave and even helped Kenny in serving food. Despite the worried comments of a blind youth serving them, the patrons eventually became impressed with Kai's mobility and reactions when food was in danger of falling off a tray. After the applause, Kai smiled and nodded, not daring to say a word. Kenny was impressive as well by memorizing drinks and food complements of larger groups. He may have been slower than the maiden server, but he never made a mistake. After the last group of men leave the tavern, the place is now empty after lunch time. Kenny dramatically collapses over the bar counter, arms dangling over it. Kai smirks at his shorter friend while wiping off a section of the counter next to Kenny. "Overwhelmed, Kenny?"

"You have no idea. Who knew that fetching ale would be exhausting!"

Kai smirks. "Mr. D did warn you. I can get you some water-"

"May the Deity bless you, Kai!"

Kai prepares the mug of water as Mr. D emerges from the back kitchen. He pats the shoulder of the maiden server as she takes her leave. She blushes over to Kai and murmurs her goodbyes before exiting the establishment. Mr. D adjusts his small spectacles resting on his nose, smiling at both young men. "Thank you both so much assisting the tavern. I had many compliments come my way about you two."

Kenny takes three gulps before saying anything. He lets out a relieving sigh. "Thank you Kai and you're welcome, Mr. D."

The innkeeper crosses the bar area and retrieves a wooden sign resting on the wall next to the doorway. He takes a step outside, places the sign in front of the entryway, and locks the closing door after stepping back inside. He turns back around and nods to the two. "I do believe we've earned a respite, even though all the customers were pleasant. Now, you two rest and I'll prepare a meal for us three."

After each person had his fill, Mr. D pushes his plate to make room for his elbows. He leans his chin to rest onto his interlaced fingers and peers over his small glasses. "So, I was told by the Prophet that you have questions for me?"

Kai folds his arms across his chest and nods. "Yes, can you tell us anything about the Hiwatari family?"

"Takao's grandpa-I mean, the Prophet said that they have a specific guardian that we're looking for." Kenny downs the remainder of water.

The innkeeper looks over to the door and windows, checking their security with quick glances. "I do believe I know something about the Hiwataris, back when I was well-known backdoor trader," he winks to the younger males. "That's code for being a smuggler."

"You were what!" Kenny shakes his head in denial. "No way, Mr. D."

The elder clears his throat. "Why do you think I'm able to find your requests for certain potions or texts, Kyouju? I have done many things in my life that I'm not proud of, but I had good intentions such as smuggling enslaved children back to their families. If it helps people and brings no harm to others, then I do what is right by my heart. I've sailed from a much further land when I was your age before that terrible Winter hit the eastern oceans. I lived most of my adult years travelling from country to country, learning new occupations and seizing opportunities presented to me, but always for the greater good."

He turns to the Russian. "Now, your question. I have done several favors for the Hiwatari clan, particularly for Aika. Beautiful woman, always faithful to her family. She always requested a certain flower from Diichoe-a Stargazer if I recall correctly. She married to… Ah, I forget her husband's family but his name was Yaromir. Good man, always quiet and appeared brooding, but would help anyone in need. He allowed her to keep her Holy family name because of its significance to their guardian." The innkeeper leans back into his seat, folding his hands over his belly in sorrowful contemplation.

"Sadly, the last favor I recall was helping transport of their servants to safety, here in Bdu. You see… the previous Imperator killed Yaromir and claimed his wife as a prize-"

Kai remembers this part of the Prophet's story and asks. "I thought the Prophet said that he was exiled?"

Mr. D shrugs. "If exiled, it would probably be safer for him to be dead, if I may be frank. Exiled is basically a pariah. If someone did assist or help him in any manner, death would surely come to one's family. A cruel rule really… nevertheless, after Yaromir's banishment, Aiko made her last favor and begged for safe passage for her staff. I, with other Opposers at the time, saved them all… but sadly, I could not save her from her fate," he sighs and removes his glasses to wipe his eyes with his thumb and forefinger. "That cursed Imperator raped her and gave birth to this Imperator."

The Russian clutches his fists, ignoring the sudden seething hate bubbling within his belly. No one should ever experience such a heinous crime, let alone be forced to have his child. "So that bastard thought that if she gave birth to his child, she would pass the Helonix to him," he growls with clenched teeth.

"You would be correct," the innkeeper slowly shakes his head. "Not many figured that out and obviously he didn't inherit the Helonix as a Spirit guardian. I would imagine that would mean Aiko was the last of the Hiwataris. Do you see why the Helonix is considered a myth? If she didn't transfer to her descendant or someone related to that bloodline, then that Spirit is lost forever."

Kenny stands, his chair dragging across the floor. "Mr. D! What color was Aiko's eyes?"

"Ah, a beautiful red color, shining like rubies and warm like a night's fire. But no one has seen such a color since-"

"A man bearing eyes of burning flames," whispers Kenny. He looks over to Kai. "Do you think maybe that Aiko… had another child?"

"Boys, she only had Y-"

Kai nods, recalling the Prophet's story by the cliff. "She did have another baby. The previous Prophet guided her to meet her true love beneath the mountain… I thought it was former Prophet, but it's possible that Yaromir stayed near the Zima Palace for Aiko. The best hiding spots are always under the enemy's nose." Kai stands as well, looking down at the innkeeper. "When did Aiko pass away?"

Mr. D looks down at the floor, trying to do the math. "Well, she was the Imperator's bride for what, two years? I would say… perhaps, eighteen, nineteen years ago? Maybe twenty-"

"So the man is our age and not a baby-" says Kenny.

"Boys! What are you going on about? She only gave birth to one healthy son-"

"Mr. D, please believe me when I say that she had two sons. She was with child a second time with Yaromir as the father-Wait. You said one healthy son… what do you mean by that?" inquires Kai.

"If the Imperator found out, he could have easily had her abort the baby, or worse, killed her if he discovered her infidelity. Now, everyone knows that she committed suicide by poisoning herself. But… she was indeed with a second child and fooled the Imperator into thinking it was his. But the baby died with her when she took her life. Besides, anyone with red eyes was doomed for death the following year. No one survived especially with that large and tempting reward." Mr. D stands and pushes his chair into the table. "But… with that being said, there could be a very slim chance that Aiko's second son survived and is in hiding. It will be our priority to find him first. We can discuss this tonight after the close of business and hopefully narrow where he could be in hiding."

The old tavern owner collects the plates and walks to the kitchen. "It bears repeating how important it is to remain silent about all of what is discussed." He turns to face them, his jolly smile gone. "There have been an infinite amount of times in which someone didn't hold their tongue and suffered fatal consequences. And you must ask yourself this: if this second child exists and was fathered by Yaromir, why didn't Aiko transfer guardianship to her second born?"

…

"Go jump into the Abyss!"

"Takao! That's rude!—"

"No Max!" Takao slams his hands down on the table to push himself out of his seat to glare at Kai who sits across from him. "You want us to find a boy our age with red eyes who is somewhere in the Deity-forsaken land!—"

"Takao, you shouldn't mention the Deity as that—"

Kai stands as well, matching and possibly intensifying his own glare. "I told you once and I'll say it again: I'm here to save Rei. If I need to find this boy to unleash the Helonix to save Rei, then so be it."

Throughout the evening, Kai kept pondering over Mr. D's last question as he and Kenny served dinner to the tavern patrons. He had several theories in mind and would have preferred to share with Kenny while he had the chance, but he also understood the risk of being overheard. Towards sunset, the green-haired siren appeared and helped serving dinner, even careful to entertain the crowd with a ear-pleasing song. Later in the evening, once the remaining group rejoined after the close of business of Mr. D's tavern, Kenny and Kai explained all that was said to the other Opposers. Apparently, Oliver and Max were more hopeful than Takao, even though they shared the same amount of doubt as the bluenet Knight. The Prophet allowed Kai to retell yesterday's story and confirmed it, yet Takao still did not believe.

"Takao, zis man has to exist or else why would ze Helonix step in to save us on ze way here?" Oliver folds his arms across his chest and faces the Alchemist. "Have you managed to limit where zis man could be?"

"Not exactly. We were hoping maybe you can get the word to Robert and Enrique. They may have more resources and a better chance than we do."

"But that could take weeks to even find either one, or months," the half-elf leans on the table with folded arms. "It sounds like we have to rely on ourselves and hope that the other Opposers will spread the word, let alone find him."

"Either way, this is ridiculous," mutters Takao, plopping his bottom back into his seat.

Kai rolls his eyes in annoyance. What everyone had said is a valid and crucial point, but the Russian refuses to give into doubt. Somewhere, deep inside himself, he knows that that door could at least lead them in the right direction of where to search for the red-eyed man, er, teenager, if Mr. D is correct in his calculations. "Look, none of it makes sense, but at least we now know that the Helonix is real and on our side. If we can't find this man," Kai briefly imagines Rei's smile behind his closed eyes while inhaling a small breath. The Russian releases his breath and glances around the table. "Then I'll bring the Helonix to the Imperator's front door."

Chaos erupt. All of the younger males express their concern, while Mr. D patiently tries to remind them of their voice levels in the main hall of the tavern. The Prophet, on the other hand, watches Kai while supporting a proud smirk. The Russian holds up his hands to request silence. One by one the others quiet their responses. "Kai, that's not the best idea you've had," finishes Kenny.

"I know you all think this is foolish. But think about it, all this time the Helonix has shown up to save us when we're in danger, or at the very least, when I'm in danger. What's more dangerous than appearing at that bastard's doorstep?"

Each young man remembers their encounter with the Helonix, forever grateful of it sparing their lives. The Alchemist reasons to himself that if the Helonix does indeed appear when Kai is in danger, then they must have the element of surprise. Kenny turns to Oliver. "Didn't you mention that you have a crazy friend on the way to an old entry to the Zima Palace?"

The siren widens his eyes and allows a smile to spread his lips. "As a matter of fact, yes. Johnny."

"Who's Johnny?" asks Kai.

"A fiery tempered member of ze Fae court," Oliver grins in Kai's direction. "If you are dead set on wanting to go directly to ze Imperator, zen you better go in ze back way. Maybe zat fool's plan could actually work!"

"But what about the Hiwatari descendant?" questions Max.

"We'll just have to go in faith that he'll show up at the right time and place," answers the Russian. "How long will we have to journey to meet up with this Johnny?"

"Give or take, twenty-five days," answers Mr. D. "At this moment, I can't imagine a better plan. Plan your trip to Sjever wisely and leave at once. If any more Opposers stop here, I'll pass the word along to be in search of this red-eye youth." The innkeeper stands and looks at each young person's face with concern. "May the Deity be with you every step of the way."

The Prophet stands, grinning at his grandson. "Well, lil' dude, you wanted adventure, you got it!" His face shifts into a serious countenance. "I would advise leavin' here within three days' time. The more y'all stay, the more likely that bastard's gonna find you here, but you also must plan accordingly and be prepared for any hiccups. You must be wary at any moment's notice."

Takao nods in agreement. "Alright. We'll try to leave here before our three days are up. That should give us plenty of time to get supplies and possibly find any Opposer hiding out here and the surrounding areas," he shakes his head. "I'm not in complete agreement with this plan, but it's the best one for now. Oliver, what are your plans?"

"I zink zis plan takes precedence over Robert's recruitment. I will make haste and update him, also spreading ze word about ze Hiwatari descendant. You go to Johnny in ze west and I will find Robert in ze north."

"Then I suggest y'all get a nice, long rest," the Prophet's eyes rests on Kai's covered ones. "Maybe your dreams will aid you in your plans." Everyone immediately thinks of the same person who could aid them further… and he is a valuable prisoner in the Zima Palace.

…

/M/M/M/ (Lite)

/.../.../.../

Never had Yuri have this kind of dream. Not even when he was growing from a boy to a teenager.

He feels hot, hotter than he would allow his body but not as hot at that cursed nightmare. His throat seems parched, but not for water. His lower regions ached with release, his hands slightly twitching at the urge to touch what was before his eyes. In reality, whenever he had these kinds of cravings, Yuri swiftly dealt with them and disposed of the body he used for temporarily relief. But this… this ache… this want-no, need…

Before him is his bed, surrounded with candles for light and icicles decorating the bed's canopy. On his bed lies Rei, covered in a thin, milky white material. Rei's hair is in a loose ponytail that pools around him like a lazy shadow. His eyes are closed while a smile spreads across his handsome face-

He sharply inhales when Rei sits up, the thin material sliding down in a teasing manner to pool in his lap. Those golden eyes hungers for him-

"Yuri," he calls. The Sjeverian holds his breath and widen his eyes. He is not angry about Rei's using his given name, but is more excited about how Rei said his given name. And that is what scares Yuri the most.

This dream Rei, a perfect replica of the real Rei, leans towards Yuri and holds his hand out, offering the other to take it. "Do not wish to be with me, Sire?"

The Sjeverian steps closer to the bed, not removing his eyes from this view. He does not dare himself to answer out loud. He knows this is a dream, a cruel dream, but why was he having this dream?-

"Does it matter if this is a dream, Sire? I can please you in any way you wish," Rei brings his hand back to stretch both of his arms above his head, purposefully teasing his exposed tanned chest to Yuri. Rei's hands travel from his head down to his neck, then to his chest before resting them on top of the thin material in between his thighs. He smiles brightly to Yuri while reaching over to his left to pull out a dagger. He holds it to his right wrist. "I can even bleed for you, if you wish it, Yuri-"

He does not know why he stopped this Rei. He does not know how he moved so fast to clasp onto Rei's left wrist that holds the dagger. He does not know why he even dreams of this scenario in which Rei would do whatever Yuri was thinking.

Yuri does not even know why he is allowing Rei to drop the dagger on the bed; he knows the real Rei would use the dagger in a heartbeat.

Yuri does not know why he is dreaming of this Rei wrapping his arms around his neck, pulling him closer so Yuri's clothed chest can touch Rei's bare one; the real Rei would do anything to escape him.

Yuri does not stop dreaming of Rei using one of his hands to caress Yuri's shoulder before slithering down his chest to his hips-

No longer caring about the dream, Yuri crushes Rei's lips to his. He groans at the contact and resists jerking himself into Rei's willing hand-

/.../end/.../

The Imperator wakes immediately on his own accord. He takes a staggering breath with widened eyes. He rests his head in his open palms while painfully ignoring the throbbing underneath the sheets. He knew exactly why he was dreaming of Rei like this: the aftermath of that cursed nightmare. After sending Rei away to rest and throughout the day, Yuri's mind would glimpse at the memory of the actual Rei enjoying the snow in his dreams. The most beautiful thing that came from that nightmare-turned-dream was when Rei smiled in his direction, whether he meant it or not.

Rei chuckles, closing his eyes to embrace the snow kissing his exposed skin. Within moments, he opens his eyes, smiling, and turns to look at-

Yuri growls under his breath. He clutches his hands into fists, no longer ignoring his hardened member. He glances out the spelled window, realizing only a few hours had passed since he fell asleep. The Imperator yanks the sheets away from his warm body and storms to the door. The two soldiers standing outside snap to attention.

"Find the first servant you come across, male or female," he dangerously murmurs. "Bring them to me now, then dismiss yourselves for the hour."

Both guards salute to their Imperial Majesty before rushing down the hall. Yuri ducks back into his room when he hears a servant-male from the sounds of it-protests at the guards' presence down the hall. At least Yuri would not have to imagine what Rei would feel like if he was fucking a woman.

/M/M/M/ (end)

…

The Russian gasps as he wakes up, ignoring the heat in his cheeks. After all these years, why would he even imagine having a dream like that with his best friend of all things! Was it really Rei's kiss that affected him so? How could Kai even pervert such an innocent act of friendship? Did he even desire Rei like that—

His mind immediately answers affirmatively and without hesitation. He groans into his hands, desperately trying not to re-imagine Rei's gentle kiss turning into an adult need. If the real Rei had shown up in his dreams, what would he have said? Would he even want to continue to be Kai's friend—

There was a knock on his door.

"What!" Kai shouts, lifting his head yet not meaning to sound so grumpy.

"S-sorry Kai," calls Max from the other side. "Oliver and I were wondering if you would like to visit the trade market after breakfast."

"Yeah, yeah. I'll come—I'll go with you," Kai grits his teeth at his poor choice of words. "Give me a minute to get dressed."

"Sure!"

Once Kai affirms himself that Max has left, his mind goes back to how wonderful it would be hold Rei as lovers would—Kai slaps his hands onto his face. There is no reason to think of that now. Even if it was Rei who initiated their first "real" kiss that allowed the Russian to think there could be more than just friendship—No. No matter how much he would want to touch Rei's silky black hair or his tanned skin—

He distracts his thoughts by suddenly remembering a promise to the old Sjeverian man who helped them sneak into Bdu. Maybe the trip to the market and the visit will keep his mind off his best friend. Kai painstakingly gets out of bed and begins his morning routine which now includes resisting the urge to think about Rei in such a… tempting way.

…

Kai follows Oliver and Max in a small part of the trading market of Bdu. While the two young men are browsing for no particular items, he observes the interactions of different beings, from a Fae woman (Max had mentioned that the eyes of the Fae shimmer in any light, thus Kai was able to tell who was Fae) selling some glittery substance in small vials, to a human child helping his mother sell jewelry. He declines the child's offer as he walks by, not feeling a pang of guilt when the child manages to attract older women to the stand. His two friends stop at a tunic-repair stand while he stands directly behind them. He glances to his left, then to his right when his vision picks up a familiar face from yesterday.

"Guys, I'm going to be by the silks stand."

"Can you even afford it, Kai?" teases Oliver, turning his attention to the Russian. The latter points to the old man behind the stand. The siren's mouth makes an "o" shape and smiles to Kai before turning his attention back to Max's choice of tunic.

Kai weaves through the crowd and stands near the corner of the silk stands. Two women, both around his age and dressed in flirtatious outfits, chat away to four other women in a different language that sounds an awful like Turkish from his world, but he can hear a Russ-Sjeverian accent. He clears his throat to grab one of the girls' attention. A customer looks over to Kai and blushes, trying to avoid being caught staring. One young lady takes a side glance to the new visitor and light smacks her companion; now Kai has both of their undivided attention. The four customers gather their silk purchases, giggling like young women, and leave the stand.

"May I help you, sir?" the young lady on the left asks, smiling too sweetly.

Kai smiles back and answers in Sjeverian/Russian. +Pardon my intrusion, ladies, but there was an older gentleman who was just here. May I speak with him?+

+Of course, of course!+ She and the other young woman argue who is to stay behind to entertain Kai. Apparently the one on the left is the younger, so she must obey her elder sister from the sound of the argument. The younger sticks her tongue at her sister before leaving the pair alone.

"Please, speak in Common so not to make other shoppers anxious," the young woman smiles, holding her hand out. "I'm Taisiya and my bratty sister is Zoya."

Kai gently grasps her hand and bows his head to touch the back of her hand. He quickly releases her hand before she could interpret the friendly greeting into something further than politeness. "A pleasure to meet you, Taisiya. My name is Kai."

"Your accent is strange, where are you from?"

He avoids the question. "I didn't mean to offend you with my accent-"

She widens her eyes in surprise with matching hand gestures. "No! No, I just never heard such a rough accent. It is charming and attractive like the man who speaks it."

Kai smirks and slightly dips his head. "Thank you for the compliment."

"Tell me, Kai," Taisiya lifts a thin eyebrow. "What business do you have with this old man?"

"Apparently, he's my grandson and your cousin," speaks the old man coming from behind Taisiya. Zoya follows directly after, her face full of disappointment to match her sister's. The old man ignores his female kin and smiles at Kai, opening his arms. "Welcome, welcome! I see you haven't drawn any more suspicion from those idiots at the gate."

"I have been keeping out of trouble so far," Kai embraces the old man. "How is your business?"

The old man's hand claps on Kai's shoulder, grinning. "Profitable! Much profitable than last year, despite the nuisances at the gates. And this is only the second day of trading, so the fun has just started! Would you like to stay for afternoon tea and exchange acquaintances with your newfound family?" The old man chuckles and laughs when his two granddaughters gawked at Kai.

The youth chuckles and shakes his head. "It would be my pleasure sir, but I'm with friends visiting the trading market. Perhaps I can accept your invitation another day?"

"Of course! Of course! Please invite your friends as well! We have plenty to go around"

Kai dips his head in agreement and nods to his two "cousins". "It was a pleasure to meet both of you, Taisiya and Zoya."

"And I am Sasha," replies the old man. "Names are most important to exchange, just below smiles, Kai." The youth raises an eyebrow at the elder's comment. "You have told me your name yesterday and I had forgotten to give you my name! Age is slowly stealing away my manners."

"Ah, I see. If I may say, sir, you certainly act like someone who is five years older than me-"

"You cur, but still I thank you for the compliment. If you'll excuse me and my granddaughters, we have more products to sell, but we will gladly take in your friends say... two days time?"

"Thank you, sir. I wish you the best in all of your endeavors." Kai smiles and leaves the stand, ducking through the crowd to find his friends. Sasha grins after the young man and laughs again at his granddaughter's disappointing countenances.

+Who are his parents, Grandpa!+ hisses Zoya.

+I will tell you two and the rest of our family about my adventures over dinner tonight,+ Sasha gently pats both their arms and head back inside. +Maybe he has handsome friends to bring!+ Both girls squeal in delight and conduct their excitement into their silk sales. Profits that day more than tripled yesterday's.

…

Rei is uneasy as he walks from the palace to the entryway of the ice gardens to calm himself. For the second time, the Imperator requests his Seer's magic as a sleep aid even after a few nights have passed. Rei is not apprehensive about the fearful nightmare that plagues the Winter sovereign nor is Rei unsettled about Boris's threats about harming the Imperator.

It was how Yuri looked at him. More than territorial like a child coveting another's toy; it was the look of a predator claiming its prey.

The Seer hated to agree to completing the Imperator's hasty request, but having seen Kai in his dreams and sharing a kiss were both worth the day's toiling. To avoid straining his magic and his physical and mental strength, Rei can produce five Elites at a time; an additional soldier goes through the process as well, depending on if one other fails. The process requires soldiers who are superior in agility and strength (though having a slightly higher intelligence above the common soldier is optional) above the others to allow Rei to visit their dreams. The Dreamation Seer conducts a collective dreaming cycle in which he and the five chosen to become Elites meet in an empty dark room with five doors for each soldier. Rei would stand in the middle, focusing on his energy to manipulate each soldier's dream into a nightmare. Although the Seer cannot harm the dreamers directly, he can alter their surroundings; he must push them past their darkest fears in order to unlock the hidden feature, the mental access that transforms the soldiers from ordinary humans to Elites. Rei has to suffer each soldier's nightmares in order to guide the terrified dreamer to their secret door and open it for them. Suffering through five or six different nightmares is strenuous, but doubling the quantity of nightmares to produce ten Elites? Far from arduous.

Under normal conditions, recovery takes half a night for Rei, while the newly transformed Elites need a whole day for their bodies to match their mental capabilities and another night to ensure that none of the soldiers regress with terrible consequences. Partial recovery from making ten Elites would cost Rei two nights.

Earlier this morning, Rei resisted in yawning as he watched passively as the Imperator instilled orders for the ten new Elites in the throne room. He stood off to the side, well within the Imperator's eyesight, while Boris stood next to the Sjeverian ruler. Occasionally, Rei would stare at the Imperator, trying to think of any weaknesses without having the nightmare seep into his consciousness. The Seer, who slightly remembering the intentional pain of replacing the Cursed shackle, glared at the Dark Mage and then glanced back to the Imper-

Those ice blue eyes were looking directly into his. Rei bowed his head and stared at the floor with his wide eyes. His heart was fearfully pounding against his chest while his whole body remained tensed. He heard the Winter Sovereign concluding his orders and heard the Elites reestablish complete loyalty to their Imperator. He briefly heard Boris speaking whose voice then lowered. The Elites marched out of the throne room, the din fading away from the throne room-

"Rei." His voice came through loud enough to pass Rei's thoughts.

"Yes, Your Imperial Majesty?" At least Rei forcefully trained himself to respond with that. Ever since that dream, the Imperator's given name lingered in the back of his mind when before he had no need of saying it. Given names were sacred to royalty and Rei had no business to ever call the Imperator's name, even if his life was in danger that night. Saying his name still bothered him-

"Distracted with something, Rei?" The Seer jolted his head back when his eyes picked up a hand underneath his chin. Those eyes held his, swirling with something that Rei immediately deemed his feelings as uncomfortable.

"My apologies, Sire. How may I serve you?" Rei clenched his teeth. He did not want to give the Imperator any reason to-

"I need my Dreamation Seer's guidance for a dream I've been having." His words seemed fabricated and Rei's feelings worsen from uncomfortable to fearful. "Tonight."

"But Sire, I have not fully recov-" Rei dips his head to avoid Yuri's heated glare. "As you wish, Your Imperial Majesty." He keeps his head slightly bowed. Now that he is thinking about it, did the Imperator's eyes gleam with something when Rei responded? His heart was beating slower and heavier, the feeling of dread overwhelming his senses. He forces his thoughts to stray to Kai, wanting to see his dear friend again- "May I be excused, Sire?"

"You are dismissed." Without any hesitation, the Seer left his captor alone in the throne room to head towards the ice garden.

Rei now leans over the stone bench, taking in deep breaths. 'Why am I so scared? What is he planning? He didn't have a nightmare, it was something else, maybe a bad dream- no, he didn't look afraid like that one time. Why was he looking at me like that? Why can't Yuri-'

"Damn it," hisses Rei, catching himself thinking the bastard's given name. He stays disappointed with himself for a little bit longer before drawing in a deep breath and releasing it slowly. Rei eases onto the bench and looks up towards the early afternoon sun. He imagines Kai basking in the sunshine, smiling at the warmth somewhere far away from this cursed palace. Thinking about Kai and how he expressed his affection to him easily soothes Rei's previous feelings, transforming them into hopeful and longing ones. The Dreamation Seer stays near the ice garden, no longer concerned about the bastard's request or given name.

…

/.../.../.../

Rei let out a small moan before opening his eyes. Realizing he is laying down, the Seer sits up while glancing around for any signs of the Imperator. The snow beneath him, oddly enough, is not cold but rather feels like a cool, soft pillow. He pinches his fingers and rubs the snow between them, enjoying the feel of dew-covered camellias. Near Rei is a snow-covered meadow surrounded by evenly spaced ice columns on its edge. A forest of iced ravenwood trees scatter around and in the distance. Yet no sign of the Imperator, which concerns the Seer. Rei stands and looks around for the Winter Sovereign's red hair.

'He has to be here or else this dreamscape wouldn't exist,' thought Rei. He briefly turns around to make sure the other was not there to scare him before heading towards the clearing. While walking towards it, Rei's thoughts keep him company. 'I don't see any possible nightmare. And where is he? Although, it is possible that he located himself in the woods…' The raven-haired youth frowns. 'Why separate himself from me when there is no nightmare? This is just a dream, why did he summon me to his dreams? Unless…' Rei pauses in his steps, widening his eyes. 'Unless he intends to actually harm me- but the dreamlink prevents him from hurting me without suffering the consequences…'

Rei shakes his disbelief away, noticing now that he is standing somewhat in the middle of clearing. He looks over to an oddly shaped column- 'Wait, what is that?-' The Dreamation Seer takes a step towards the nearest column-

Ice flourishes from underneath his feet, transforming the soft snow into a hardened floor. The Seer becomes motionless and stays very still. His countenance is amazed at the shining surface resembling a diamond reflecting in the sunlight. He slowly crouches to the ground, using his fingertips to examine the floor and to stabilize his balance. His senses confirm that it did change into a diamond surface. He softly gasps at the Imperator's ability to imagine something so amazing- Rei turns sharply to a sound behind him. His quick actions makes him topple over painlessly.

Yuri continues to walk over to the Seer, his eyes not once straying from Rei's frightened ones. Rei tries to move away, but slips again; he has no choice but to wait for the Imperator's help or inflicting pain. The Sjeverian ruler stands over his Seer with an impassive expression. Rei sharply inhales when the other holds out his hand, palm up. He eyes the hand before staring into those cold blue eyes, unconsciously pulling his upper body away from the extended hand.

"I won't hurt you," replies Yuri, still holding his hand out.

With some hesitation, Rei places his hand into the Imperator's-

Yuri pulls Rei up and into his chest, using his other arm to wrap around his Seer's lower tensed back. Rei's hand is trapped within Yuri's hold, while Rei's other hand is pinned between their chests. "Sire, please let me go…" Rei pleads. Something in Yuri's eyes shifted; is his eyes showing concern?-

Despite Rei's stiffness, the Sjeverian begins to sway their bodies. He takes two steps to the right, using their joined hands as a guide, then spins the pair around to go another two steps to the right. Rei glances down at their movements in confusion, immediately keeping time to avoid being stepped on or tripping over his own feet. 'Are we… are we dancing?' Rei avoids looking into the blue eyes, trying to look at the odd pillars… no, not pillars-

Yuri brings their joined hands inward to slowly allow Rei to twirl away from him, watching his Seer's face displaying a horrified realization to the frozen statues around the edges of the diamond-iced clearing. Rei stares at the other in alarm.

"Why did you bring me here?"

He ignores Rei's question, spinning Rei back into his arms. "When I spread the Winter Virus, I never knew how much I valued silence," He continues to sway himself and his tensed Seer. "No laughing, no crying, no screaming, no demands, no rebellions, just silence. But even I must admit, it was so lonesome," Yuri smirks. He casts his eyes to an iced woman holding her arms above her head in a frightened pose before looking down into Rei's golden orbs. "Then I realized what is the point of ruling people if there are no people? Hence, capturing you to help me dull the population's din, but you also did something else for me."

The Imperator ceases the dance and maintains a grip on Rei's lower back and hand. Rei yanks it out of Yuri's grasp, only to have it pinned with the other; he's trapped within Yuri's arms. He stares into those blue eyes, fearful of what they are showing. Yuri answer: "You helped me realize that all I need is one other person to enjoy the silence with me," Yuri removes his hand from holding Rei to caresses the other's cheek, despite the other's flinches at the touch. "Do you wonder who that other person should be, my beautiful Seer?" he softly asks.

Fearful thoughts turn into angry ones as Rei glowers at the man before him. How dare this bastard-His pupils dilated into dangerous slits, digging his nails into the Imperator chest out of anger. The pinches of pain spread across Rei's chest, thanks to his dreamlink, as he answers: "To the Abyss with you, Yur-"

Rei lands on his side and cradles his red cheek. Yuri ignores the sting on his own cheek, before glaring down at his Seer. "And here I thought you would be wise enough to accept my proposal."

"Never," Rei hisses.

"Even when your friends' lives are at stake? And what about the children? I can make every child in my empire turn into ice, just like these statues," Yuri indicated with a wave of his hand. A Winter wind blows behind him, ruffling his red hair before rushing towards the statues. They all topple over, scattering over the diamond-covered clearing, while each piece splatters blood over the former dance floor.

The Imperator smiles, watching Rei covers his mouth in horror; Rei watches the blood pool from all the pieces. Yuri walks over to his Seer and lays a gentle hand in his raven hair, gripping tightly enough to hold Rei yet not enough to hurt either one of them. "If I have to use force to obtain you, then so be it," Yuri leans down and kisses Rei on the temple before he whispers: "You are worth every life I kill, Rei."

/.../end/.../

Rei awakes with a shaky sob from his lips. He quickly sees Yuri's form still sound asleep-

The Dreamation Seer pushes himself away from the bed and stumbles onto the floor to make distance. The Third Eye caws loudly and dives towards the toppled chair. It lands and spreads its wings in a threatening manner, still cawing at Rei. The Seer covers his ears and closes his eyes, wishing to be anywhere but here-

He feels a hand placed on top of his head. He jolts his attention upward and crawls backwards until his back collided with the Imperator's desk. Yuri stands from taking a knee and watches Rei take in shaky breaths. "Had a bad dream, Rei?"

Though shocked from the dream, the Seer glares from his position, using his fear to fuel his anger. "I'll live."

"I know you will because I allow it."

The Third Eye hisses at Rei and directs its attention to the door. Its creator is now on the other side. Both young men turn toward the knock as Boris announces himself. The Imperator gives permission to enter and glances at his Seer before bringing his attention to his Dark Mage.

Boris bows at the waist. "Sire, I bring you news from early this morning." His Imperial Majesty lifts an eyebrow, gesturing to continue the report. The Dark Mage straightens his posture and smirks. "Your request will be in the city by nightfall."

The Imperator smirks and brings his attention back to Rei. "I wonder how your friends will fair when our companion Ivan visits them?"

The Dreamation Seer inhales sharply, paling at the name. "No," he breathes out. In haste, Rei dashes pass the two powerful men and out the door. Boris became furious and runs out of the room as well, while Yuri saunters to the hallway. The Dark Mage is surprised at the unexpected scene and then bows at the waist, feeling the failure of not stopping the Seer himself. Rei, on the other hand, lies on the floor, nursing his bleeding right temple. Yuri had summoned an ice wall to prevent Rei from running further. When Rei turned his head back behind him, he crashed into the wall.

The Imperator stands above Rei, grinning at how the color of his blood clashes perfectly with his Seer's tanned face. "And where do you think you were going? To somehow warn your friends? To escape?" He takes a knee next to Rei and clutches a fistful of black hair, ignoring Rei's feeble struggles. "You cannot escape me; you belong to me," The Imperator raises his head and calls out to his Dark Mage. "Since my Seer wasn't satisfied with his current boundaries, limit them to just inside the palace."

"You know, Sire, your Seer doesn't need his legs for casting a Dreamation," Boris eyes Rei, glimmering with malicious intent. "It would certainly limit his travels."

"That is ingenious." Rei freezes in horror, squeezing onto the Imperator's hand in his hair. Rei nearly hyperventilates at the thought of removing his legs, his imagination trying to measure the amount of pain his body can take. Would that bastard actually dismember his legs? Would they let him bleed out to death? And what about his friends? Ivan was coming after them and no one survives that snake- Rei imagines his friends suffering at Ivan's hands and castings- Kai would die, not having any idea how to defend himself from that monster-No one would save him, Rei would be trapped, forever imprisoned by that cruel, twisted Ice Bastard-

"You belong to me…" 'That bastard meant it. Is there no hope for my release?-I'm going to die here…'

Rei releases his grip and allows his hands to fall into his lap. His golden eyes dull in their shine as they glaze over, lost in his morbid thoughts. The Imperator raises an eyebrow at his Seer's sudden lack of energy, but nevertheless he maintains a tight hold and keeps his guard up.

"Unfortunately, he is more attractive with both his legs," Something stirs besides Yuri's twisted admiration of a lifeless Rei. "Secure the shackle and have two Elites guarding his room. He is bound to his room unless I command otherwise."

"Your wish is my command, Your Imperial Majesty."

…

'I have to save them, I have to save him, I have to save Kai,' Rei's thoughts repeatedly run through his mind as he quickly paces in his room. He no longer thinks about his own safety or how the Imperator expressed an imaginary interest in him, Rei is only focused on trying to get to his friends, to save them from that horrifying Ivan.

Ivan is a brilliant Alchemist, one that could even surpass Kenny's genius. However, the difference between his small dear friend and that Sjeverian fiend is madness. Somehow, Ivan created a terrible concoction made up of Dark Magic and a minor serpent-like Spirit in which he tested on himself. The result: a half-snake, half-human Alchemist with enough venom to kill several Elties, nevermind human fatalities. The Naga-Alchemist, Ivan's new title, is still a deadly ally of the Imperator's, yet even Ivan knew that one touch from the Imperator's Winter magic would be the death of him and his mad brilliance. Ivan serves the Imperator at a distance and continues to experiment in his cruel ways until the His Imperial Majesty makes a request of him… like now.

The Dreamation Seer stops his pacing and eyes the Cursed Shackle at his ankle. A ghostly chain connects to the clasp and stretches towards the opposite side of Rei's room. He remembers that Abyss-cursed chain when he was first brought to the Zima Capital, always sending a surging pain from his foot to his head if a single toe crossed the entryway to his room. Rei let out a menacing growl and collapses on his bed, resting his head on the heels of his hands. He closes his eyes, inhaling once to gather a deep breath before exhaling.

He has to take a chance the thrice sleeping tonight. It would be ideal if Rei could find Kai, give him a brief lesson on twice slumber and find the door where that… monster resides in Kai's mind. Worst case, Rei does not find Kai, he would at least experience this kind of sleeping. The more times Rei dreams within a dream, the more times he is susceptible to a comatose state or even death. He would never tell Kai that risk, knowing his dear friend would immediately prevent Rei from even trying.

But Rei stands firm in what he told Kai: he would risk everything imaginable to free infinite amount of lives, even if it means not telling Kai the whole truth about Dreamation casting.

…

Just as Rei was thinking about Kai, so is Kai thinking about Rei but not as any means of being in danger. The Russian has his hands under his nape with fingers interlaced, trying to focus on something else besides his dream the other night. After everyone bidding a pressured goodnight to him, Kai felt how heavy responsibility actually is in contacting their dear friend. Since the beginning of this whole adventure he thought he was playing a small part in helping Rei, but it quickly grew into a substantial and vital role: serving as a host to the Helonix who could easily destroy him. Kai was risking his life to save Rei…

But his friend is worth that price. Kai remembers how happy Rei was in his dreams, despite the situation; he could only imagine how much happier his friend would be if Rei was completely free of that bastard and his empire. If Rei was ecstatic for Kai to agree on a hopeful request, then how else would Rei express his happiness and gratitude? The two-toned bluenet closing his eyes as his throat hums with the thought of Rei not only kissing him, but actually returning his feelings. Kai would not mind allowing Rei to show exactly how he feels, as he lays Kai on the ground and begins to kiss his lips and move to his neck before going down to his chest. Kai would be in complete contentment at having Rei on top of him, exploring him with his roaming hands. The Russian would be able to return the favor, wanting to taste Rei's bare upper arm and shoulders with his lips. His hands would possessively keep his friend to himself, not wanting to ever be separated from him again.

Kai should not be thinking of his friend like this, but he does not care; those thoughts relieve this sort of… tension within Kai-

/.../.../.../

Kai slowly opened his eyes and immediately pushes himself up into a sitting position. His hands feel a soft fleece blanket and his eyes confirm that it is the same blanket from that dream. He dares not look over to his left, knowing what lies there-rather, who lies there.

"Kai, let me love you…"

The other grits his teeth and murmurs. "You're not real, you're not the real Rei." Kai inhales sharply at the touch on his thigh.

"Does that matter? I've also dreamt about this, dreamt about you…"

Kai groans at how the fingers start to gently massage him, slowly making their way inwards. His stomach has this sudden-drop feeling, his heart pounds in his chest, his fists shaking in anxiety… or excitement. He feels the fingers caressing-

He pushes himself off the ground, shaking his head to relieve himself from this scene. He closes his eyes and pictures the daytime sky, the sun brightly shining as he stands by the familiar lake from his childhood. 'Rei's not here, my Rei is in the palace-' Kai lets out a frustrated growl at that sudden claim. Once again, he focuses on the gentle warm breeze goes through his hair, the soft grass underneath his bare feet, the fact that he is completely alone and at peace. He has to-needs to-concentrate on finding that damn door-

"Kai!"

His eyes widen in shock. Rei has not shown up the past few days, it might be his imagination-

He hears his name again. Kai bites his bottom lip, trying hard not turn around until he knows that he can still be Rei's friend.

Rei runs towards Kai and shouts his friend's name once again to grab his attention. The Seer's running slows to a jog and then down to a couple of steps before stopping a few feet from Kai. Ever since they had grown comfortable around each other in their childhood days, they always run to each other. When Kai does turn in Rei's direction, the Seer senses something is not right.

And Rei does not like how his friend is avoiding his eyes. Even with that enchanted eyewear, the Seer knows that his friend is not looking at him or anywhere near him. Was Kai mad at him-?

His cheeks flood in warm blushes as Rei recalls his kissing Kai… and his friend's response of not wanting to pull away. Rei remembers it was he that pulled away first and seeing how Kai looked confused… possibly hurt even. His heart slows into heavy thumping at the sudden thought: 'Does Kai think I rejected him?' That has to be it! He must tell Kai the truth about his feel—

Kai clears his throat and brings his attention to Rei's bare feet. "So… what do we need to do for me to dream within a dream?" He glances up to Rei's face—

Golden orbs flashes hurt before Kai could not bear to look at his friend anymore. He focuses on the lush grass under his own feet and fights the urge to think of his friend as any more than just that: a friend. The Russian knows that any tiny thought could leak into his dreamscape and shape it into something that would ruin his already damaged friendship with Rei—

"Kai, why-?"

The Russian groans inwardly and turns back around. That pleading voice of Rei's is not helping either— "Just... let's get this over with—"

Rei forcefully turns Kai's body around. How did he not hear come so close to him? And those gold, beautiful and handsome eyes are now cat-like slits, warning Kai that his dear friend is angry. He looks down at those lips that were once on his—

"Look, you can be angry with me all you want, but you can't act like this!—" Rei gasps as his upper arms are suddenly squeezed by Kai's hands. Golden eyes are no longer angry, but widen with surprise.

"For your sake, Rei, please just… let's do your plan… before I do something I'll regret." Kai breathes that last part out. "I will never hurt you and I don't intend to create a possibility." Rei does not know if he should be worried for Kai or still angry. He does know, without a doubt, that he should not fear anything from his friend. Even in Rei's wildest imagination, Kai would never harm him. So why the hurtful look?—

"Kai, that kiss, I'm sorry if you didn't—"

The other drops his hands to hang by his side and faces away from Rei. "I know you got excited," Kai says confidently. He has rehearsed this line many times in the dark on his back before falling asleep for a couple of nights. "That kiss didn't mean anything to you and I'm fine. We're still friends and we have a plan to execute." He takes a few steps away from Rei to give himself (and his friend) a comfortable space.

The other looks at his friend with an uncomfortable pang in his chest. Rei ducks his head to hide behind his bangs, whispering. "But it did—"

"Did you say something?"

Rei picks his head up and forces his sadness away. "Nothing, Kai. I'm sorry, you're right. We should focus on the task at hand." He goes over to Kai and faces him. For the longest time, Rei has always been curious about Kai's eyes. Recently, now that both of them are older, his curiosity turned into a desiring want and need to know what they look like. "I'll try my best to guide you. Should anything unexpected happen, force yourself to wake up. Do you remember how?"

Kai smirks. "I know how. Don't insult my instructor, he taught me well."

The Seer smiles and holds out his hand for Kai to take. "We'll lie down, close our eyes and go to sleep, holding hands. If you focus on the door from your Limbo before you drift off to sleep, I'll follow you because we're connected. Makes sense?"

"As much sense as my appearing in your world," The Russian places his hand in Rei's, his thumbs stroking the other's. "But I trust you. You are the Dreamation Seer after all." Kai begins to lie down, tugging Rei to join him. Both friends lie next to each, hand in hand, staring at the beautiful lavender sky Kai created.

The raven-haired teen smiles. "I remember looking up and naming cloud shapes when we were kids. Our imaginations were silly, but there's still a lot of things I don't know about your world-" Rei silences himself when Kai yanks and rolls him onto his chest. The Seer cradles his hand in between their chests, the other still holding onto Kai's. He looks up at the other. "Kai-"

"Shh. We're trying to go to sleep."

Rei lowers his eyes just in time to miss the blush creeping into Kai's cheeks. Even if the kiss didn't mean anything to Kai, the Seer smiles at how tender Kai continues to act. Though his friend acts so tough and protective, Kai can be gentle and kind when he wants to… and that's a secret Rei will keep to himself. He closes his eyes and draws in a deep breath to begin meditating.

"Close your eyes if you haven't, take a deep breath and exhale slowly through your nose. You're going to meditate, focusing on the door. Remember its symbols, its color, its shape, its height, every detail you remember. If you feel yourself drift off to sleep, just let yourself be carried away, don't fight it."

Kai nods slightly, following Rei's instruction. After a few minutes, Kai shifts onto his side, pulling Rei closer and having their knees lay on one another. The Russian tucks Rei's head under his chin before asking about Rei's comfort. Despite his reddened cheeks, his friend responds with a yes. Kai smirks and inhales deeply once more. He feels a peaceful wave wash over him, allowing himself to drift to sleep like Rei instructed. It's an odd experience, but it seems so natural. Soon after, the pair are sound asleep within Kai's dream.

…

AA-Chan: Just in time for the holidays! It would be an honor to see you all in 2020 for the next chapter! May next year be much kinder to you than this year, and may bad luck keep away from you; I hope only good fortunes will shower you this next decade! Continue to enjoy reading and writing and truly have a wonderful holiday!