Kimi and Reisu's Story 01 Thread One: The clouds below the floating islands of Aureus Eyrie were heavy and dark in the late evening sky. Moving restlessly, thunder and lightening rippled through the cloudbank that separated Earth from the heavens. On the world below, rain fell in stinging sheets, driving both people and animals to seek shelter. Standing on the eastern cliff face of the Eyrie, Lakydra, the Sidereal Oracle, peered into the darkness below. Although her position as the spiritual leader and seer of her people, the Selestarri, usually forced her to be calm and reserved, tonight she found herself as restless as the storms that raged over Earth. She had been waiting for the last two days for the Vision to overtake her. In the past when the Visions had come, she was able to bend the flow of the premonition, forcing it to invade her mind on her own terms. Yet for the first time in one hundred and twenty-six years, a Vision was beyond the scope of her control, and she found it frustrating and annoying. Striding across the marble flooring of the observation deck, she waved away the cloaked and hooded attendants who moved from the shadows to assist her. The Oracle lifted her teal and indigo skirts to climb the massive stairway to the upper chambers, her long, snow-white hair floating in a cloud as she moved. The attendants following in silence, she slowly ascended into the largest of the Eyrie’s towering glass spires. Other Selestarri nodded in respect as she passed them, and despite her mood, she smiled and acknowledged each by name. Reaching her own chambers at the top, the Oracle changed into a simpler robe and stretched her white-feathered wings to their limit. The tendons stretching and pulling at the muscles in her shoulders, the Oracle’s sight became blurry, and the colors of her chambers bled into mottled streaks. The invading magic enshrouded her mind in a thick mist, and slowly, as her sight cleared, images separated and reformed to a scene vastly different than the towers of the Eyrie. The Vision had finally come. From far away, she felt her body sink to the tiled floor… Thread Two: Thunderclouds swirled overhead and lightning streaked down over the frigid waters of Karmesinrot Lake. Pushed by the wind, the gray waves crashed upon the sheer walls of Ebenholz Falke, the imperial castle of EbonReach, sending a cold spray over the battlements. Within the thick, stone walls, soldiers drew cloaks tight against the storm as slaves huddled under the eaves. Rainwater ran through cracks in the stone flooring to drip into the dungeons below. The dungeons of Ebenholz Falke stank of blood, rot, and stagnant water. Starving rats and mice scampered over the stone floors and lice clung to the dirty straw of the cells. Dampness and mold hung in the air, often infesting those imprisoned with a fatal lung fever. Among the captive, it was said that if you entered the dark underground of the Falke, it was best to die quickly. Those words were the first whispered in Kimi’s head as she woke from a shallow sleep. Pushing herself off the filthy stone floor, the green-haired girl ignored the screaming of her bruised muscles and forced herself to a sitting position. Hot blood trickled from a cut on her arm, cooling and congealing as it reached the iron manacles binding her wrists. The sickening crack of her ribs as she turned from the wall almost sent the meager contents of her stomach coursing up her throat, the lightning-quick pain bringing tears to her dark eyes. Crushing despair quickly overwhelmed her exhausted mind, thoughts of the guards’ last visit a much-overplayed memory that only increased the lingering aches. She wanted to scream, cry, beg for her freedom, but it was too late. Death was the only thing that could save her from these tainted, filth-incrusted walls. Breathing deep, Kimi forced her body to calm; only half realizing that there was no such concept in this place. However, she could not afford to think only of herself when there were others to consider. People she cared about, people who shared her punishment. Squinting in the near dark, Kimi peered into the dark corners of the small cell; an audible sigh of relief escaping as she barely made out the shape of another person huddled in the corner. “Reisu,” she whispered, lungs straining with the effort, afraid that the guards would return. When there was no reply, Kimi got on her hands and knees and painstakingly crawled as far as the heavy chains and her broken body would allow. “Reisu?” she whispered again. Reisu was also a slave in EbonReach, forced without consent or rights to work in the massive castle as a maid. The captive people of the Emperor, those whom had once lived in the surrounding lands, but had lost their homes to the army’s might, spent their days in constant fear. Public displays of “punishment,” hangings, and beheadings were used as a way to break their spirit and quell thoughts of rebellion. Kribensis, the imperial ruler, had little interest in the matter of his slaves, and to that effect had let his hand-selected guards do as they wished. Pleas for leniency or mercy fell on deaf ears. Kimi had seen her father killed when the silver and green liveried army burned her village to the ground. He’d been trying to protect the neighbor’s son, but the soldiers slaughtered the boy as well while Kimi and her mother watched. With other survivors, they’d then been herded on a long journey to Ebenholz Falke, the terror of becoming the guards’ nightly amusement hanging over their heads like an executioner’s sword. The younger women and girls whispered amongst themselves that it would be better once they’d reached the castle, that they’d be safe, but after the first night of “welcoming,” those dreams evaporated. The castle held hundreds of slaves, and so Kimi didn’t meet the tall girl with flowing purple hair until she’d been a captive for three years, and was transferred from the kitchens to under the watchful eye of the Head Maid. Reisu’s story was similar to hers, her village had been destroyed and those who lived brought to EbonReach. She’d been much younger than Kimi when she’d arrived, but she’d lost much of her family in the last few years. Slave deaths were common in EbonReach, and although there were always hushed whispers of rebellion, it was a thought no one entertained for long. The mere rumor of an upraising lead to multiple public whippings and killings, all the slaves forced to attend while Kribensis unleashed his anger. For three years Kimi had watched, helpless as her friends and kinsmen were beaten or murdered. One day, she had just snapped, unable to stomach the abuse any longer. Huddled in the far corner of the women’s quarters, Kimi told Reisu that she planned to try and help the other slaves, to protect their friends and family. Surprisingly, the younger girl agreed to help, and so they plotted to outsmart the Emperor’s soldiers. On many occasions they helped others stand up to bullies or escape if being threatened and at first, no one had interfered and it seemed that their actions had gone unnoticed. Emboldened, Kimi and Reisu had become more aggressive, taking on the bigger and nastier guards, and had even attempted to talk to some of the other slaves about joining their efforts. Then one afternoon, as she and Reisu stood up to a man who was beating a little girl, they were ambushed and brutally beaten by a group of soldiers. When they awoke, it was to the dank, rot-filled stench of the Falke’s dungeons. That had been two weeks ago, and the torture had continued everyday of their imprisonment. The only hope either girl had now was for a quick execution. The sound of footsteps in the hallway sent Kimi scrambling back against the cold, wet wall. Agony from her wounds ripped through her body, and she bit back the whimper of pain that rose from her throat. Although she tried to fight it, she began to shake uncontrollably. On the opposite side of the cell, the purple-haired girl was weeping quietly. The footsteps stopped before the cell door, and the weak light from the outside torch disappeared from the small, barred window. Bright red light flared at the keyhole, and Kimi watched wide-eyed as the iron melted and the door swung open. Having been warned of the hallucinations that can take place after weeks of abuse, a small part of her was hoping the bitter end to their pain had finally come. For a moment the cell became completely black as the figures filled the doorway. When the light returned, she could see two tall people cloaked in heavy, hooded robes. The shadow of the hoods made their faces difficult to clearly see. Involuntarily, Kimi found herself sliding toward the nearest corner of the cell, as far from the door as she could get. The heavy fabric of the cloaks rustled softly as the first person stepped onto the dirty straw, and a loud, hitching sob broke from her ragged throat. Pulling her knees to her chest and wrapping her arms around them, she began to rock in place. The soft clink of metal on the stone floor drew Kimi’s attention and she carefully tilted her head to peer over her knees. Reisu was cradled in the arms of the slightly shorter person, her friend’s head resting comfortably on the broad shoulder, eyes closed. The shadows shifted and Kimi turned, the second cloaked figure crouched at her side. Her gasp echoed off the walls, and although she wanted desperately to get as far away as possible, the terror held her body in a frozen grip. The person pushed the hood down, and Kimi found herself looking at a young man, maybe twenty-five or so. He had beautiful golden hair and violet eyes. The rich pools held such kindness that a wave of relaxing calm eased her fear. When the man put a finger to his lips, she nodded. Sliding his arms under her legs and around her back, he stood, lifting her with ease. Kimi watched with amazement as the blood encrusted iron manacles slipped off her wrists without a sound. The safety and calm she felt in his arms after weeks of torture dropped all of Kimi’s defenses and she suddenly felt drowsy. Burying her face in the strange man’s shoulder, and lulled by the graceful movement of his walk, she fell asleep. The cold splatter of rain woke her, the storm raging heavily overhead. The dark shape of the castle lay behind them and to the right the angry waves of the lake crashed on the shore. Kimi asked the man where they were going, but the wind tore the words off into the dark sky and so she watched in silence as they approached a group of trees. She expected to see horses, or a wagon to take them from Ebenholz Falke before the guards discovered their absence, but to her surprise the tiny grove held only one other cloaked person, slightly smaller than those that carried Reisu and herself. The man shifted, indicating that he was setting her down, and Kimi stood shakily on legs exhausted from weeks of disuse. Green eyes wide and staring, Reisu was also standing, her purple hair a sodden mass that clung to her back. The third person moved from beneath a tall pine tree to present each girl with a thick, dry cloak. Beneath the hood, Kimi glimpsed the delicate features of an olive-skinned woman, who smiled as she slid the soft fabric over their shoulders. Glancing quickly to one another, the man who had carried her nodded and a moment later a brilliant light began to flow from all three of the strangers. It twisted around them like a whirlwind, bright against the shadows of the night. A cold hand squeezed her and Kimi realized that Reisu had moved close to her side, eyes riveted to the scene before them. The shifting light spread to their backs, a distinct shape forming as it moved. Kimi was unable to turn away; the glittering sparks were fascinating, but deep within, her stomach formed into knots. Hedge witches and wise women were common in all towns, but sorcerers were dangerous, and she’d only ever seen magic like this performed by Kribensis. Had she and Reisu been saved from one evil only to find another? With one last flash the light went out, and when the dark splotches cleared from her eyes, Kimi could only stare. Breathtaking white wings rose from each of the strangers’ backs, feathered like those of an eagle. “Angels,” Reisu whispered in awe. Were these the winged messengers of God that the Christians worshipped? Perhaps she and Reisu were already dead, and the angels had come to take them away. Maybe they— Her thoughts were cut short as the three people crossed over the wet pine needles, the female taking a moment to stretch the newly appeared appendages. For a brief instant Kimi had the urge to run, but as they approached she felt the same wash of calm spread over her exhausted body, and there was no protest as one of the men pulled the hood over her head and gathered her into his arms. Four times she dimly heard the swish of air as the powerful wings flexed, however the somnolence had returned, and for good or ill, she clung to the stranger and after a moment the stormy night fell away into the soundlessness of sleep. Thread Three: The angel’s arms were strong and comforting, the motion of his wings a soothing beat that almost lulled Reisu to sleep. However, she watched excitedly over the seraph’s shoulder as the black castle and choppy lake fell away and a bank of cold clouds surrounded them like a thick fog. Still, they climbed higher, the chill causing her to shiver despite the heavy cloak, until at last they broke free into the clear night sky. The winged person bearing Kimi’s sleeping form was directly behind, while farther back was the female angel. The events of the last half hour had left her confused, but at this point nothing could be worse than the dungeons. Besides, if these truly were the angels, then perhaps she and Kimi were already dead, and were now soaring toward heaven. Regardless, for the time being, just breathing clean air was enough. Reisu lost track of time as they traveled high over the storm, the sky an endless stretch of darkness, and without landmarks to guide her way, there was no telling how long they’d been flying. The thrilling rush she’d had as they took out began to fade until the angel dipped his wing and they began to descend. Astonished, she could only stare as they approached a large archipelago of islands floating above a sea of clouds. Light the color of liquid stars flowed over the nearest island, and as they passed above it, Reisu realized it was a huge lake, the breadth of which stretched onto the main island over a series of connecting bridges. Flying on over smaller lakes and glittering rivers that disappeared into groves of trees like a snake moving through tall grass, they eventually crossed a small plain and dropped lower. Twisting slightly in the hooded angel’s arms, Reisu’s breath caught in her throat as the plain ended and she caught sight of something heard only in myth. A ring of seven mountains rose from the flat land in a protective arc around a small valley. Spanning the entrance was a beautiful and intricately carved arch, its height leaving Reisu to only guess at how it was formed. Winding through the mountains, a fat ribbon of water fed a placid lake before disappearing into the peaks once again. Clustered around the water were six spires, moonlight casting each structure in a wash of calming silver. Drawing closer, Reisu could see that the base of each tower was formed of clay tiles, set into patterns that swept toward the apex with the same swirl as a tornado. About halfway up each spire, the tile began to mix with massive windows, the spacing even until the top of the building, which was entirely made of glass. At various heights there were terraces, balconies, and other openings that allowed access to the tower from any level. Passing between the buildings were covered bridges of all heights and widths, some along the ground and others precariously perched high in midair. Those closer to the bottom were so wide it seemed as though a wagon would easily roll from one place to another. In contrast, the sky bridges were slender and rail-thin so that in places it seemed that only one person could comfortably walk. Each span was carved in the same manner as the main arch, with swirling patterns and intricate knots weaving through one another with such skill that trying to follow with one’s eye could easily lead to a headache. A well-maintained forest hugged one end of the lake, its treetops filled with birds of all shapes and sizes flitting between leaves shaded in hues that Reisu had never seen on a plant before. At the shore, almost indiscernible from the sky were creatures that looked like deer, although they were the size of large horses with shining white coats and antlers darker than pitch. Spread around the base of the mountains, vegetable and fruit patches lay in precision lines, the thick, dark dirt clearly visible between. Across the water and surrounding the bases of all the structures like a colorful blanket were perfectly manicured gardens bursting with shrubs, flowers, and other types of plants. Meandering stone paths crisscrossed throughout the area, with benches spaced at varying intervals throughout. Reisu could only imagine spending the day in the gardens, staring up at the clear sky while the waters lapped gently at the shore… Nearing the closest tower, the angel circled for a moment before dropping gently onto a wide terrace just below the glass roof. Kimi was wide awake as they were set down, her brown eyes wide as she took in the exquisite spire, and Reisu would have laughed if she hadn’t been staring just as much. Iron scrollwork wound over the huge doors before them, the pattern of spirals the only thing indicating that they were doors at all and not just another translucent part of the structure. Light spilled from crystals attached to the walls and ceilings, illuminating the building as if it were midday. Through the glass they could see circular rows stretching far down to the floor below, each seat occupied by an angel. They wore clothing in every fashion and color imaginable, from full armor, to ornate robes, to the same peasant clothing she and Kimi were dressed in. Yet it was not only the clothing that set each person apart from the others. Hair in every shade of the rainbow, some long and flowing, some tied in complicated knots, others short and spiky were in abundance, and the array of skin color drew Reisu’s attention even more. Some of the angels had skin the color of butterscotch, others that reminded her of the dark, rich soil of the fields; still others were so pale they were almost white. Reisu had only heard stories of the people from far lands, but now, to see so many different variations was astounding. Over all the strange wonderfulness of the angels was an odd, tingling sensation that Reisu had only felt when in the presence of the Emperor Kribensis. It wrapped her body with a strange buzz that made the hair on the back of her neck stand up and shivers shoot down her spine every few moments. Although it didn’t feel threatening whatsoever, it still made her slightly uncomfortable. With a gesture to indicate that they should follow, the three rescuers, still in their damp cloaks, strode across the terrace and through the open doors. Reisu glanced at her friend and nodded before taking a deep breath and walking into the tower. Immediately the angels stopped talking, and hundreds of heads swiveled in their direction as they descended a long flight of stairs. All the eyes made her nervous, and she reached to take Kimi’s arm. Together they slowly moved to the bottom of the enormous room, the quiet so thick that every footfall echoed loudly. In the center of the chamber, on a square, marble platform, sat several more angels. Eleven people were situated just off center, seated in chairs of polished wood. Dressed in robes of varying color, the first thing Reisu noticed was that they seemed older than those with whom they’d flown, although she had to admit that it was difficult to pin point the age of any of the seraphs. On their left was a single chair carved of the same marble as the platform, and in it was a striking female angel. She was garbed in robes dyed so richly purple it almost seemed as though they’d been pulled from the sky at dusk. Twining embroidery of leaves, knots, and swirls adorned the hanging bell sleeves and was sewn with a white thread that matched the belts nestled at her slim waist. Gleaming wings the color of new snow rose gracefully from her shoulders, outshone only by her thick, straight hair, which encircled her head in a myriad of braids before falling feely to her waist. Delicate enamel barrettes, the kind Reisu had only seen once, when the Duchess of her small town passed through the streets before it was destroyed, glinted from between the plaits in flashes of indigo and emerald. Her skin was such a deep brown as to be almost black, the stark contrast with her hair only serving to highlight the beautiful bone structure of her face. A band of orange cloth concealed her eyes, the long tails mingling with her white hair and draping over each shoulder. Ahead of Reisu and Kimi, the three rescuers stopped before the majestic woman and bowed low, wings spread wide over their backs. Standing gracefully, she returned the gesture, smiling at each angel before turning to Kimi and Reisu. “Welcome, and thank you for coming.” The seraph’s voice was light and musical, but powerful enough to reach the very highest seats in the chamber. Bending at the waist, the magnificent wings flared to either side, and around the room, the onlookers bowed their heads. Instinctively, Reisu clung tighter to her friend’s arm, gaze sweeping over the beautiful woman before glancing at Kimi. The green-haired girl’s eyes shone with fear and confusion, her emaciated body shaking violently. The intricacies of court etiquette were only for the elite in EbonReach, and as slaves, they’d not been taught the proper responses. An expectant silence quickly fell, the moment slightly tense as they hesitated. Finally Reisu, still holding Kimi’s hand, bowed low to the female angel, pulling Kimi down as well, and praying she wasn’t committing an offense in the process. Almost immediately, the seraphs straightened, hushed whispering breaking out in the upper seats. The blindfolded woman walked to the edge of the platform, stopping just as her feet reached the very edge. “We have been watching you for some time, Kimi and Reisu,” Despite the band of orange cloth it felt as if her eyes saw right into Reisu’s mind when her name was spoken. Around the chamber, other angels nodded in agreement. “Are we dead?” Kimi whispered in a voice so laced with fear it was almost inaudible. Smiling, the tall woman shook her head. “No, your time for death has not yet arrived. Rather we have brought you to our home, the islands of Aureus Eyrie, the lands of the Selestarri. My name is Idaeynia, the Sidereal Oracle, chosen by my people to speak with you tonight.” Reisu opened her mouth to ask a question, but Idaeynia held up a hand. “Unfortunately, our time is very short, and I have much to tell you. Therefore, explanations must await a future discussion. Please accept my apologies,” she smiled again as both girls nodded. “Thank you. Now as I mentioned, we have been watching you for many months, impressed by your courage to stand up to those who would oppress you and your friends. You both put your lives on the line to save your peers, although no one asked you risk yourselves. Kribensis is truly a man of great evil, and must be removed from power before the stain he has infected your homelands with becomes permanent. To those ends, we seek to aid you.” “But—but—“ Kimi stammered cautiously, “we’re only slaves. We just wanted the guards to stop hurting our friends and families.” “Then you do not wish for the death of Kribensis? For freedom and a chance to live your own lives free from oppression and fear?” Idaeynia asked. “We offer you gifts that will help achieve those goals.” The girls stood in silent shock. To even entertain the thought of the Emperor’s death was punishable by slow execution. Could these Selestarri really be serious? Was there a chance that what they promised was possible? Reisu looked at her astounded friend, and then back at the white-haired Sidereal Oracle. “I don’t understand. How can we even hope to kill Kribensis? The old ones say that sorcerers are immortal.” “Immortality is a myth. All that breathes will some day perish, even those thought to be invincible. I assure you that with our aid, you shall have the power to defeat Kribensis.” Idaeynia stepped off the edge of the marble platform, standing less than five feet away before continuing. “I must warn you that the price may be high for the freedom of your homelands. Will you pay that price if it is asked?” “Death?” Reisu asked, her eyes finding Kimi’s for a moment. As a servant in EbonReach, death was a possibility everyday; so much so that the darkness of the afterlife was no longer fearful. “If it means that Kribensis will die, then I don’t care what happens to me,” Kimi stated, the determination in her voice inspiring Reisu to nod in agreement. The Sidereal Oracle smiled and dropped her head for a moment. “Then I must ask you to kneel before me.” Both girls dropped to their knees on the cold floor, the force of their commitment and the tense excitement of what was to transpire driving their actions without complete thought. From the back of the chamber, two male Selestarri approached, their footsteps echoing in the silent chamber. They stopped on either side of Idaeynia, each carrying a masterfully constructed weapon. The first man, wearing a full set of armor that appeared to be hundreds of tiny reeds lashed together, held a beautifully crafted sword. Intricate runes twined around the silver blade and the hilt was carved from a smooth, polished stone. Bowing, he twisted the thin sword around in his hand in a blinding arc before thrusting the weapon into Kimi’s stomach. Surprised, the green-haired girl weakly grasped at the blade, blood spilling over her legs to pool on the white floor. Just as her body slumped forward, a brilliant green light exploded from the sword, obscuring Kimi’s slight form. Shocked, Reisu turned toward her friend, reaching to help, as the second Selestarri stepped forward. He wore a brilliant robe of gold and white and carried a long, thin glaive. Carved runes wrapped around the center of the weapon, and a blue-tinted blade gleamed at one end. With a low bow, he spun the glaive with well-practiced skill, avoiding the useless arms she threw up to protect herself, and sank the blade into her chest. Scarlet liquid flowed over the hands she pressed automatically against the wound, but there was little she could do as darkness closed in. Just before the room completely disappeared from sight, heat spread from the weapon, and the metal glowed a soft purple. A sharp tingle spread from her chest, turning into a violent shudder that wracked her body. The light flared and the warmth settled into the wound, knitting broken skin and torn muscle. Strangely, she felt stronger and reenergized despite weeks of torture. With a final flash, the purple light receded into the glaive, and as the glare faded from her eyes, she was kneeling on the marble floor once again, hands wrapped around the haft of the magical weapon. Kimi studied the sword sitting in her lap as Idaeynia smiled down at them and raised her hands over each of their heads. “Reisu and Kimi, we, the Selestarri, charge you with the duty of destroying Emperor Kribensis of EbonReach.” Her voice rang with intimidating power and reverberated off the glass walls of the chamber. The vibration of magic was so strong, Reisu half expected it to surge through the room in bolt of lightning. “His blood is yours to claim in retribution for that which he has spilled. Our gifts we have given to aid in your efforts, use them wisely and they shall guide you.” The Sidereal Oracle turned toward the Selestarri seated on the platform, and then to those seated throughout. “We have passed our magic to these girls, I ask of you now to support their quest, as has been agreed upon by the Council and the Bright Assembly.” With a rustle of fabric and soft clanking of armor, the Selestarri rose to their feet, silent, as they stood united. “Then it is so,” Idaeynia said, crossing the room to stand on an intricately inlaid pattern of stars and odd markings. The three Selestarri who had brought them from EbonReach followed her, still wearing the wet cloaks. The men who had presented the weapons waited patiently to either side of Kimi and Reisu, and as the girls realized they were to follow, the man beside Kimi spoke quietly. “The weapons you carry are of our making. To summon them, you need only wish for their presence. Each weapon knows how to fight, so you don’t have to worry about being capable of handling it. After a time, you’ll become used to them, and fighting will feel more natural.” Reisu nodded, but the entire night felt like one long fairy tale. These mysterious, magical people had given her power and a weapon and were sending her off to defeat the person she hated most in the world? It sounded too much like one of the storyteller’s tales, and yet it was truly happening. Had it all been dream or a hallucination brought on by the dungeon, she surely would have woken already, and so, unbelievably it was real. She and Kimi were going to kill Kribensis and free their friends. Maybe the storytellers would speak of them in the villages and towns. The Sidereal Oracle indicated that they were to stand on the amethyst star in the direct center of the pattern, and each of the six Selestarri took up points in a circle, hands joined. “Go with our best wishes, and know that no matter the outcome, you have fought on the side of righteousness.” Idaeynia bowed, and those throughout the chamber followed her lead. “Farewell.” Reisu bowed in return, Kimi following suit, as the Selestarri began to speak in a flowing, archaic language. A warm, golden light spread on the floor, twisting in slow circles to form a huge circulating column. Moments later the tower on the floating island was swallowed by brilliant, sizzling light. Thread Four: When the glare dissipated, the great central hallway of Ebenholz Falke had replaced the glass-walled room. Before them, arcing toward the ceiling stood the massive, ornately carved doors of the Emperor’s throne room. Two uniformed guards stood before the entrance, mouths open and eyes wide as they stared at the unexpected intruders. Filled with the power imparted by the mysterious Selestarri, Kimi and Reisu moved with identical fluid strides, the weapons pulling them across the tiled floor. Glaive spinning in a high, circular arc, Reisu was as surprised as the guard when the weapon connected with the side of his head. Without a sound he slumped to the floor, blood marring the colorful pattern set into the threshold. Kimi followed her friend, smiling in satisfaction as the gleaming sword blade pushed though the second guard’s chest. Bloodied weapons clasped tightly, the girls smiled to one another and stepped over the bodies of the fallen men. The soldiers of EbonReach were just as villainous as their master, treating the slaves as objects for their own amusement. Many were feared even more than Kribensis, for although the Emperor would not hesitate to kill, it was always quick. Many of the guards, however, did not follow his lead. If Kimi had it her way tonight, they would all die with Kribensis. Kimi grasped the iron handle and with Reisu’s help, they managed to open one of the thick doors halfway, an audible creak splitting the air. Torchlight and soft music spilled into the hallway, and with a shared glance and nod, the girls tentatively stepped over the threshold. The throne room of the Emperor was even more finely decorated then the rest of the castle. Tapestries of mythological stories and fantastical battles lined the walls; splashing bright color on the gray, slate walls. Under towering, arched glass windows, the carved obsidian chair of state rested on a stone dais. To the left of the throne, lying on velvet encased down-filled pillows amidst stacks of books and young male slaves was the Emperor of EbonReach. Kimi had learned long ago, that despite the silver hair and soft indigo eyes that comprised Kribensis’ youthful appearance, the man’s heart was completely dark. Although he preferred to spend time with certain male slaves, he did not discourage his soldiers from taking what they wanted from those he did not care to be bothered with. As the girls entered the room, Kribensis rose to his feet, annoyance written across his face at the disturbance. His servants immediately backed away, scampering quickly in fear of the Emperor’s anger. Crossing the stone platform, he stared down at the audacious interruption, eyes cold. Unnerved by Kribensis’ silent stare, Kimi’s hands began to sweat. The sword suddenly felt heavy, and she resisted the urge to put it down. Kribensis’ eyes continued to glare at her, mocking the mere idea that she could confront him. She was only a slave, and therefore had the right to neither question nor be in the presence of those who were better than her. How could she have thought it possible to defeat an Emperor, let alone someone with Kribensis’ strength? On her right, Reisu shifted uneasily. “…His blood is yours to claim in retribution for that which he has spilled…” Idaeynia’s musical voice broke into Kimi’s thoughts. The dark web of despair shattered, and a spiraling tingle of magic coursed through her body. Green light pulsed around her, and on the dais, Kribensis stepped back. “Reisu!” Kimi yelled, as the sword pulled her toward Kribensis in a sprint. Reisu shook her head, as if she were trying to clear it. As if an invisible force pushed at her shoulder, Kimi brought her left hand to the hilt of the sword, and swung it, double-fisted, over her head. Blinding green energy exploded from the blade, hissing through the air as it streaked toward the Emperor. The silver-haired sorcerer dropped low, rolling to the right and easily regaining his feet as the blast smashed into a hanging tapestry. Striking eyes bored straight through Kimi even as she ran toward him, sword still raised to attack. With frigid control and absolute calm, Kribensis pointed in her direction, an unseen force rushing toward her like a brick wall. Before she could react, Kimi was lifted into the air, long, green hair whipping around her face, as time seemed to slow and the far wall of the throne room rushed forward. The air was squeezed from her lungs as Kimi hit the slate, hazy spots mottling her vision and bones screaming from the impact. Blood trickled from a deep scrape on her back, plastering the dirty tunic to her skin. Miraculously, nothing seemed broken. From far away, she heard the sound of energy burning though the air once more, and then a sickening crunch as Reisu also slammed into the wall. Ignoring the throbbing of her abused body, Kimi climbed to her feet. Wiping at a streaming flow of blood from a cut on the back of her head, Reisu shakily stood, the glaive still tightly grasped in her hand. Guided by the weapons, they moved together, charging down the length of the room at the enemy waiting patiently beside the throne. They had promised to fight until the end, and they had meant it. Kribensis allowed them to reach the base of the dais before he pointed once again and sent them crashing into the stone. A sickening laugh resounded against the walls. Injured and exhausted, Kimi struggled to stand. Her left arm had broken when she’d hit the wall, and there was a long gash on her leg where her weapon had sliced deep upon impact with the floor. Reisu looked just as wasted, the wound on her head flowing freely, staining the purple hair with streaks of crimson, and her right wrist was bent at a slightly unnatural angle. She remained slumped against the wall, breath coming in hard pants. Stepping from the platform, Kribensis crossed the room, a frosty sneer plastered over his delicate features. Crossing the tile, he flicked his wrist and a long, wide-bladed silver sword appeared, flashing brighter than the dim glow from the candle chandeliers overhead. Leaning heavily on the wall, Kimi glared at the Emperor and weakly raised her weapon. His indigo eyes met hers briefly as he approached, but then his attention rapidly switched to Reisu. Bending down, he grabbed her by the back of her neck, ignoring the blood that flowed over his fingers. “I hope this was worth your deaths,” he growled, shoving Reisu’s head against the wall. The silver sword caught the light as he swung it wide, the blade aimed at the terrified girl’s exposed stomach. With the last of her energy, Kimi leapt between them, metal squealing and sparks flying as she parried the strike. Reisu scrambled to retrieve her glaive as Kribensis sliced at Kimi’s legs, the younger girl maneuvering so that she stood behind them. In a whirlwind of attacks, the girls lashed out, weapons a blur of color, but the sorcerer was too skilled, his silver blade deflecting each offensive. Although all three took minor wounds, and scarlet slicked the cold floor, the battle had stalled. Kimi slid across the tile, tugged along by the magical sword as it streaked toward the Emperor’s exposed shoulder. In an instant he spun around, Reisu’s glaive skidding the length of his weapon as he turned to catch the descending blade. Twisting his wrist, he wrenched hard and yanked the hilt from Kimi’s hands and sent the weapon skittering toward the far wall. Disarmed, she glared at Kribensis for a moment before doubling over in pain as the hilt of his sword slammed into her chest. Gasping for air through cracked ribs and a throat ragged from exertion, she suddenly wanted very much just to cry. Metal clanked as Reisu continued to fight, desperate as she held off a renewed round of attacks. Kimi lifted her head as a sharp whistle cut the air, a racing bolt of silver barreling toward them. Eyes riveted to the streaking object, she distantly felt Kribensis turn around once more as realization dawned too late. With the concussive force of a collapsing building, the gifted sword plunged into her chest, snapping the sternum as it pinned her to the sorcerer. As one, they stumbled against the wall, the room falling silent as they both stared at the protruding blade. Bloodied hand shaking, Kribensis reached over Kimi’s shoulder and yanked the sword free, the sickening squelch of muscle and bone echoing against the stone. Rough hands shoved her away as she began to cough, crimson spattering over the floor. The hallow clatter of the weapon hitting the tile was shrouded as she followed it, knees contacting hard. The Selestarri had said the weapons knew how to fight, but they also apparently knew whom to fight, and she’d made the mistake of getting in the way. She’d already announced her life was forfeit, and the sword had sealed the deal, taking her out as it aimed for the Emperor. Perhaps she’d misunderstood just how powerful this magic was… The throne room had grown darker, a filmy haze slithering over her eyes as with a huge effort, she slowly turned and slumped against the slate wall. She clutched at the leaking chest wound with her right arm, the left lying shattered and useless in her lap. For some strange reason, she couldn’t feel her legs any longer. Somehow, Kribensis was still on his feet, the front of his ornate tunic soaked scarlet. Breath hissed between grit teeth and blood marred the youthful face in trailing streaks. The jaw-length silver hair was sweat-damp and clung to his pale skin, but the indigo eyes remained cold and dark, glaring down at Reisu as she caught his sword with the haft of the glaive. Exhausted, they traded blows as Kimi watched with fading sight. Blades locked, both Reisu and the Emperor pressed hard, determined not to give in. A spark of purple energy surged between the weapons, flaring brightly for one long moment and then exploding in a violent blast of magic. Convulsing madly, the combatants broke apart as the energy fizzled out, smoke rising from their bodies. The stench of burned flesh and hair hung in the air like a fetid cloud. Face and arms blackened, Reisu made one last attempt, swinging the glaive from her position on the floor. Kribensis attacked simultaneously, his wide, silver blade cutting the purple-haired slave from neck to hip as the glaive sliced deep into his stomach. He stumbled hard, long smears of blood staining a nearby wall hanging. The pins that anchored the fabric snapped, sending the huge tapestry billowing down to settle over the limping Emperor, an odd robe of state that dragged through the pools of blood. With painstaking steps he crossed the room, collapsing just before the dais. Watching Reisu slowly pull herself along the wall in an attempt to reach Kimi’s side, she caught the ripple of air from the very corner of her eye. Two figures robed in black appeared on either side of Kribensis, stooping to cover his body with the tapestry. One had wings of absolute black and was exceptionally tall; the other had enameled metal wings of garnet, the individual panels held together with a fine copper spider web of wires. Without so much as a glance at either Kimi or Reisu, they gathered the Emperor’s body and disappeared into thin air. “Did we really kill him?” Reisu asked, voice rattling in her chest. Kimi turned in her direction, but the darkness had stolen all sight and pain had numbed her body. “I don’t know, maybe. Those people, were they Selestarri?” Reisu was quiet for a long time. “Don’t know,” she finally replied. “And I won’t live to find out.” “If he’s not dead, and manages to come back, I want to fight again,” Kimi whispered, the taste of blood suddenly strong in her mouth. “We promised to kill him, we have to see it through to the end.” “We will, Kimi,” Reisu promised, but her voice was very far away. The room was cold, and the hazy darkness filling her eyes had moved to her mind, driving out all but impending death. She had done her best for the other slaves, fought against impossible odds and given her life. There was no real sadness, the old ones promised that the afterlife was free from the harshness of living; she’d have all eternity to spend enjoying it. And while she relaxed and reflected on her life, the storytellers would tell the tale of Kribensis’ defeat at the hands of two slaves. Interregnum: Colors and shapes blended, swirled, and realigned as the Vision continued. The Sidereal Oracle watched with interest as the images reformed. What she had just witnessed had not come as a surprise. The Chronicles, written by the Sidereal Oracle, Idaeynia, told the story of Kimi and Reisu, how the Selestarri had debated the best way to be rid of Kribensis and ultimately decided to give magical gifts to the slaves that hated him. Revealing themselves so openly to the humans, let alone giving them weapons, had been unheard of, but they were desperate to avoid a war, and at the time it was the only option. What was odd about the entire Vision was that it replayed the past. Not that witnessing past events was uncommon, but Kimi and Reisu had been dead for many years. Magic was a powerful force, barely containable by those who understood how to wield it, and known to warp circumstances without warning. However, it still didn’t explain why this should have any bearing on the present or the future. Puzzled, the Oracle sighed as the shapes and colors around her solidified, pulling her deep into the Vision once more… ~ MAIN ~ NEXT~ All content contained on this site is (C) 2001-2008 by Bounce and Angsty-os (all rights reserved) Please do not take, steal, link or borrow anything on this site without written permission from Bounce (Bunny Writer - Resin Fox)