Uncertainty

The forest resonated with its own illumination, as if the sun itself shined from within each polychromatic leaf. Though such a notion was not plausible and the derivation of the ethereal illumination was from the current of mana which surged through the structure of the trees and the components land. The vicinity had absorbed the copious amount of mana in which the magnanimous heavens had generously given. Sparks of mana could be witnessed now and then traveling along the length of each tree while the blades of grass whispered with the absence of a breeze. Despite the ample supply of mana, there lacked the flourishing array of animals one would expect. But there were brief glimpses of enigmatic and exotic specimens within the foliage of the trees, and perhaps first impressions should not be retained.

Blue was only a spectator to this grandeur as sapphire optics surveyed her surroundings, absorbing any information unwittingly provided for her. She had separated from Echo for some time now, deciding to explore the location in which they had been deposited at by the stranger who had been negligent to reveal his identity. But then again, Echo had badgered the man and provoked him, lowering the possibilities of such disclosure. The duo had at least been here for a day's time. The exact duration of their residence was undetermined. Blue proceeded to traverse across the dancing grass, scouting the area and had so far not discovered any immediate threat. Echo had, if you considered rain a threat. And so she had ventured into the forest by herself, until Echo gathered his composure and dignity to come to the decision to pursue her. The rain had not lasted that long, in her opinion.

She would eventually stumble upon a stream and take the opportunity to wash her clothes. The articles of fabric were removed and cleansed in the liquid that ran through the heart of the forest. The water sparkled with brilliance and clarity, its derivation from the ice-capped mountains in the area. Blue would then perch her moist clothes on nearby branches, allowing them the time to dry out in the afternoon sun that affectionately kissed her tanned flesh, providing her a measure of warmth while in the absence of her fabric. She still retained a pair of panties and a bra, for those would be washed after the initial clothes dried out so she would have a means of concealing her essentials once the time arrived. She would not traverse in the nude, despite the impression that she held a measure of privacy as it appeared that no other judgmental creature was around to witness her half-clad body.

The young woman would then sit and take shelter within the shadow of a tree, a yawn emanating from her. She had not taken the time to allow her body and mind to rejuvenate, lacking sleep for a day or two now. It was taking a toll on her vessel as she rubbed her eyes. So far, she had failed to find any means of departing from the forest. That would be difficult when she had no sense of direction. The hand descended from her eyes, to unconsciously caress the scar that blemished her chest, that was etched just above the location of her heart. A multitude of scars decorated her back. Their source was unknown, but each held a story that had yet been told. It was just clear that the ones that were carved into her back were not self-inflicted, for they were out of arm's reach.

Blue gazed upon the beauty before her eyes, fixated by the land untouched by human civilization. It was pure, serene. A land not desecrated. The tranquility of her environment began to seep into her as her eyes became heavy, and sleep graciously offered her a moment of serenity. Gravity became dysfunctional as she felt the world shift, body gently falling onto its side as sleep coaxed her to yield. The prismatic colors faded into shades of grey and then transited into ebony as she slipped into the welcoming embrace of unconsciousness. In a rare display of vulnerability, the violent vixen slept.

It would seem that the Forest had many visitors that day, told by the soft whispering of the leaves that still balanced in their rightful spot upon the trees, and the soft wind that urged them tell of the news. The proof, however, was far more substantial when one could lay optics upon the 'intruders' which had come to the forest.

The fresh rain had washed away the harbored heat from beneath the trees, leaving behind a bearable temperature, and leaving trees and grass to spark with light from the daily sun. The morning's run having been disturbed by the fact of others, and the discomfort left in the foilage due to it. Sapphire optics dared steal a glance towards that of the other creature who had settled herself within.

And obviously her rest was undisturbed, for the time being, for there was not seen a single flutter of lashes to indicate harsh dreams or alertness. The flamboyantly dressed female shifted foward, the hues of rose and lilac prone to giving her away, should the other awake. Blonde tresses had temporarily been tied in a tail at the nape of Dhizzandra's neck, allowing for clear vision, and the dark skinned woman surged forward, into the soft flowing waters of the stream.

The water was not warm, the sun had not yet warmed it enough to constitute walking, and or swimming in it just yet, but it was shallow enough for one to walk without getting too terribly wet. Once the shore was reached, a slender brow was raised in question as to the origins and reason for the other woman to be. The bottom fringe of the wet dress gave a gentle 'Swish' noise as movement was made, and Dhizzandra idly gave a prod to the woman's clothes, curious as to their material, or in hopes of finding some display that would answer the questions growing within.

In this time, Dhizzandra would wait for Blue to regain her concious mind, or if patience was limited, pull her out of the sleep herself. Given the looks of the woman, however, the dark skinned female would prefer to wait. Blue appeared as though she might attack first, and ask later.

~Zelis tossed and turned in his sleep, his body finding rest, but his mind was in hell. Since to moment he has taken out the charm that he wore in his ear, his body had fallen into a light, semi-conscious sleep. His dreams were the same as they were the last time he slept, some years ago. Indeed, they had been the same for millennia, ever since he had cursed himself to eternally feel his pain and grief. Tears streamed done his sleeping face, and he awoke with a scream. Not a scream of terror or rage, but a scream of pure anguish. He stood suddenly, only to fall upon his hands and knees, his body shaking and heaving as he sobbed for a moment. It was always the same, the dreams and the pain. After a few moments, he collected what was left of his mind and calmed himself.

The image of Blue’s face sparked into his mind, and he instantly wondered where she was. He had left her and Echo some miles away, and from the bits of sky that shone through that leafs, and by the dampness of his clothing, it had been at least a day since he had left the pair to recuperate, and it had also rained, yet the light that suffused the foliage of the forest had not dissipated. Part of his mind suspected that this light was unnatural, caused by some magical malady, but that part in the back of his mind was thoroughly ignored, for his focus on finding Blue. He felt into the darkness, looking for the disk that he had thrown to Echo before his departure from the pair, and felt it had moved, but only into the general area of which Zelis had left them.

Calling down his veil of darkness, Zelis melded with it, and shifted back to the small clearing where he had dropped them after his strength had almost given out after their escape from the storm that devoured part of Nede. He dropped the veil, and looked about, spotting Echo. The man looked deranged for some reason. Zelis did not even get close to the man, and did not draw his daggers to fight. His only concern at the moment was Blue, and he had no desire to fight the man unless he needed to. Remaining unseen, he looked about, spotting a set of tracks that must have belonged to Blue. There were still tracks on the ground, but they were muddy and vague. Still, it was a lead, and Zelis found the path of the small footprint and followed it, remaining silent and unseen.

After about an hour of following the path, he heard a small flow of water in the distance. Thinking she might be there, or at least headed there, he called upon Umbra once more, cloaking himself in darkness before disappearing all together as he shifted into the shadow of a dead tree, about 20 yards from the stream. Removing the blessing from Umbra, he took to the trees, looking about for a bit before spotting her clothes hanging from a tree limb. Moving silently, he returned to the ground and moved toward the clothes. As he pasted from behind a rather large tree, he was struck dumb for a moment by what he saw. Blue’s almost nude form lay before him, deep in sleep. His eyes moved over her form, eyeing the scar above her heart with particular scrutiny. She’s the same…. he thought as he mind whirled at the possibilities. He placement of the scar was familiar to him, for he had seen that same position in his mind’s eye only a few hours ago, save for the fact that in his mind, in place of a scar, the flesh held a dagger. His dagger, to be specific. He sat down, and drew his knees up, hugging them to his chest, his eyes never leaving Blue’s prone form. He failed to notice the small, dark-skinned child as she approached Blue, though it was doubtful she had seen him due to the both the nature of his clothing as well as the distance involved.

He would wait for Blue to rise from her slumber, for he could not bring himself to wake her. As he watched and waited, his mind wove a web of memories before him, replaying the events that led to the incident that caused him to still wonder the realms.~

How flattering it must be to know that nature itself took note of your presence, and proceeded to announce the presence of the newcomer to the inhabitants of its territory. How flattering it was, to know that not only one, but two sentient individuals yearned for your consciousness, for sleeping beauty to arise from her slumber. On the notion of sleeping beauty, how a trifling story. The notion was simply ludicrous. A mere kiss to wake a woman who had fallen into slumbers for millennia? More like a simple kiss to awaken the prince from the nightmare he was caught in. Nightmare was a desolate company that pursued the first plunge into slumber after waiting with a ravenous hunger for prey to be reckless and fall into its territory. Her tranquility was always brief and fleeting.

The sound of technology hummed in the background, announcing its arduous labor as it computed data imputed into its complex system. The sound of fingers falling upon keys resonated within the dark chamber, a obscured visage illuminated by the screen before it.

Input Identification:
**********

Input Password:
******

Opening Systems Log....

An array of technology vocalized their manifestation

Commencing documentation...

The entity stirred within its prison, optics revealing themselves as they absorbed the array of information provided for it as it resided within the fluid-filled chamber. She witnessed silhouettes standing outside the perimeter of the glass structure, translucent bubbles manifesting in her proximity. She could hear them whispering inaudibly, feel their scrutiny as they observed the specimen. Where was she? Why was she here? This was not her place... The conversation outside continued as the silhouettes became animated, dispersing as an alarm was raised.

"Brain waves are fluctuating rapidly!"

"Administer the serum! It mustn't awaken yet!"

They were outside... where she needed to be. Optics illuminated as a force projected outward centrally from her vessel. The glass quaked and visible fissures decorated the perimeter until it came shattering into a multitude of pieces, only to be swept away by liquid that had kept her suspended.

The image contorted from fractured memories, only to summon a different scene.

Blue found herself suspended from the ceiling in a white padded room. A restraint jacket adorned her upper torso, as she was left suspended upside down. Phantom voices whispered in her ears as she fidgeted in her restraints, her frantic movements causing her to sway side to side as she witnessed blood appearing on the walls as if the walls themselves were weeping. Shrill screams permeated the chamber, beseeching Blue, incoherent with grief and anguish.

"Run Fiona!!"

Panic ensued as Blue listened to the voice of the one who bore her into this world. Why? Why did God had to take the one thing precious to her? Why did he have to plunder her innocence? An invisible force struck her chest and Blue witnessed a blade lodged into her chest, above the location in which her heart resided. It was not the weapon itself that shocked her but the sensation of pain that traveled through the intricate path of her nervous system.

Blue awoke with a start, disorientation and perplexion an aftermath from such unorganized dreams. Her first inclination was to seek the solace of her daggers, the only items that had ever given her a sense of security. She was disappointed to realize that none were in her proximity, and eyes narrowed menacingly as she caught the sight of a dark-skinned individual examining her moist attire. Blue's eyes quickly lowered to the dagger that had fallen from one of the pockets of her jeans due to the woman's prodding. The dagger had narrowly missed one of the woman's dainty feet. The expression she greeted the stranger was not congenial as Blue raised her hand, palm outstretched to the dagger lodged in the soft texture of the earth it had impaled.

The dagger vibrated and soon dislodged itself from the earth, answering its master's call as Blue implemented her telekinesis to summon the dagger into her possession. Delicate digits coiled around the hilt of the weapon once it found its rightful place within her grasp as optics scrutinized the individual before her. She was assessing the situation, calculating probabilities, before coming to the conclusion that she would not initiate a confrontation less the other acted foolishly. The individual should consider herself lucky that, despite Blue's ominous ambiance after the nightmare, that she had come to the decision not to lay the first strike, and retained enough sanity to practice logic and sensibility. If the individual had any desire to inflict damage, they would have done it while she had been unaware.

"Need something?"

Blue asked after a tense moment, raising to sit up and lean against the tree in which she had taken shelter beneath from the blaring rays of the sun. Blue remained oblivious to Zelis' presence in the distance.

The female had merely shifted the aforementioned foot half an inch back, allowing the dagger to stake itself into the soft earth. She had no interest in the woman's weapons, nor her attire, though strange it was. A curious sapphired gaze cast across the area, as if having sensed another, but it was dismissed. Dhizzandra's appendages rose, settling to rest upon slender hips as she waited, wondering how long it would take for this woman to awaken.

Obviously the answer was, not long. As the woman stirred, Dhizzandra jumped in slight surprise at the voice that came. A mild frown adorned her visage briefly, before a forced smile was given.

"No, I was simply curious about the ...style of your clothing. My apologies if I disturbed you, that was not the intention." Dhizzandra's form shifted fully to allow her a better angle to peer at the woman. Her intentions were not hostile, in fact, they were of hospitality. A small tilt of the head in Blue's direction was given before Dhizzandra chose to speak again.

"I had hoped to reach you before you stopped to rest, but I was obviously too late. I would request that you put the weapon down, as I have not come to harm you. Rather I offer you solace from the forest...I have a small ..house, if you will call it that, not far from here. As the sun travels the sky, the dangers of the forest are far more prominent. I have clothes you can borrow while those dry, though.." Blue's form was eyed. "They may be a little short."

Now came the million dollar question, would Blue accept her offer?

~Zelis watched the exchange between the pair, not really following it, for his focus was bent on studying the woman’s facial features and the movements of her form. As the dagger flew to her hand, he would remain completely still, watching those delicate digits wrap themselves around the hilt. When the girl offered her hospitality to Blue, Zelis stood, pulling the cloth of his cape close to his body as if a frigid wind had beset him. Walking slowly toward the pair, he did not bother to remain silent, and his steps crunched the ground slightly as he walked over dead twigs and dry leaves.

“Zelis.” His gaze shift toward the ground as the unfamiliar syllables spilt from his mouth. He did not speak his name to anyone, and might have forgotten it were it not for the nightmares that he experienced when he dreamed. “My name,” he said, thinking that she would not understand what he was saying. Even the Leaders did not know his name, and yet they hunted him to know what he possessed, the power to manipulate darkness, using it as a tool. The fools. He himself did not know how he did it, for it was more instinctual than anything.

“Where did you get that scar?” he asked, his voice quavering slightly, for he was almost afraid to hear the answer. Indeed, he only hoped for an answer, not really expecting one, for the last time they had spoke, he had attempted to kill her previous companion, and were it not for the storm that razed part of Nede, he probably would have succeeded.

He stood there, waiting for her to speak, to something, anything. On a primal level, he needed this one, for in his mind, she was the only thing that could over him a sliver of redemption.~

The young woman with a head of white tresses quirked a brow skyward as the woman responded. This stranger had been summoned to her proximity merely out of genuine curiosity to the style of her attire? Blue's optics rolled in their sockets, directed at the moist clothes hanging from the secure grasp of the branches she had draped them upon. Her attire merely consisted of an uniquely designed azure shirt, a pair of jeans that halted an inch or two above the knees with what appeared like white bondage, a pair of navy boots, and a peculiar white jacket with blue markings on it. Now that Blue contemplated on the notion, her attire was quite a contrast to that in which the stranger adorned herself with as she examined the flamboyant woman.

Silence lingered in Blue's proximity as she listened with indifference, her interest in this individual as fleeting as any other. Blue had come to the conclusion that, currently, this woman posed no threat due to her behavior and the stance of her vessel. And, as far as Blue could scrutinize, this female retained no apparant physical weapon to use to combat with her if a confrontation was inevitable. Her grip on her weapon tightened, fingers caressing the blade as she derived a twisted solace from the presence of her dagger before her eyes narrowed at the request to lower her weapon. She had yet to engage in a menacing position toward the stranger, and so the request was more or less taken as an insult. She would not relinquish her weapon merely for the woman's conscious' sake, for hers was no better than Blue's.

But as the woman continued, Blue realized that an answer to her predicament could be standing right before her. The notion was momentarily interrupted as the woman addressed her half-claded form. Blue's eyes descended to her half-naked body, unashamed. There was no need to be demure when you retained no concern for the opinions of a judgmental society. Though most individuals would protest that Blue had nothing to be embarrassed about with a body as attractive as hers. Modestly speaking, she was a primary choice for a mate and would produce healthy offspring for any lucky male. Blue's lithe form rose gracefully, without the emanation of hostility or animosity that was accustomed to her ambiance despite the fact that she retained possession of her dagger situated comfortably in the welcoming embrace of her delicate digits.

If this female could provide her with a different avenue that would allow Echo and her to depart from the forest's vicinity, then there would be no harm in pursuing the notion. But speaking of her partner, Blue could only pensively contemplate on his condition. What became of him after she had made her departure, leaving him stranded beneath the shelter of the canopy? Had he managed to retain the foundation to his sanity? Or had he become another unfortunate victim to the horrors that slithered within his cranium? Blue could only wonder. She would return to retrieve him after she gained an answer to their predicament, if he had not already come to the decision to pursue her now that the rain had made its departure.

"A house?"

Well there was the possibility of a temporary shelter if the storm decided to return, as well as it would allow to have a sense of security when nightfall arrived. And then there was the promise of dry attire to adorn herself with, though with the downfall that they would perhaps be a tad small due to the stranger's short stature compared to hers. But it was a beginning, and it would be wise to snatch at the prospect.

"It would be much appreciated. Seeing as you appear to be familiar with the forest, I also hope you can help me find a way out of the forest. I do not desire to be a burden to you longer than necessary."

Civility and courtesy were appropriate at times, and she did not want to repel the possibility of aid for Echo and herself.

But just as she responded, another figure emerged from the shadows. Blue's eyes narrowed as she cautiously watched the stranger from earlier, the grip on her dagger loosening as he approached them. She was more than prepared to confront him if he was here to resume the quarrel that he had initiated in Nede. What he greeted her with was not what she expected as she quirked a brow. Zelis, was it now?

Though his inquiry was met with first perplexion and then indifference as she casually touched the scar on her chest.

"It was from a dagger."

She stated simply. She saw no reason to tell him the intentions behind the blade, on who had been the one that had lodged it into her chest. Simply that it had been done by a dagger.

"I hope you did not do anything to Echo while we were separated."

She stated to Zelis. Enchanting eyes deprived of emotions caught his gaze as she regarded him solemnly. For his sake, he better not have harmed Echo.

Those dark gray orbs had at last fallen to a easy close; the tenderness of Blue had taken the young Wind Knight by surprise. Resting peacefully his mind began to dwell on past emotions. His mother;His father...Him. All of these things began to well up a bit more. With each passing memory the wind song hummed trying to sooth the snow haired youth; it wasn't working very well. Until; that one memory passed into his mind. The soft finger tips that eased down his cheek; Her the mind of the youth began to settle. The unmoving body began to become active once more.

"It's time."

He spoke solemnly; the words fluttering over the wind and around his very body. Rise; and the Knight did. His body standing full and tall now; that smile slowly placing over the soft lips. It was his; the orbs became soft once more. It was time he found his partner in this whole mess. With soft steps he slipped from under the trees, for the moment the rain had come to a stop. No doubt it would be back soon though. Yawning slightly; and twisting his neck he moved his body down the path.

A house?

That voice was unmistakably Blues. Shifting his form into the open light he stopped; his eyes catching not only Blue; but Zelis and a new woman had produced her self into their little mix.

"I'm fine Blue; thanks."

He spoke softly; letting the wind carry his words around them. With a solemn nod to Zelis to show he wanted no fight; he stepped a bit more to the group. The hood was still up; but soon enough slender fingers reached up and with drew the hood from his snowy head. That smile still playing on his lips.

A light smile adorned Dhizzandra's visage, and an inclination of her head confirmed Blue's question.

"Yes, a house. Though it is modest, it will provide protection from the Forests creatures, and a warm place to rest, and gain nourishment."

Optics widened at the approach of another, male, this time. How many had the Forest granted passage?

"How...many companions are there with you?"

It was a curious question, for if there were more, the quarters would be tight..not uncomfortably so, but enough that it might deter them. It had been long since Dhizzandra had considered herself with visitors, the forest as of late, seemed to deter any travelers that might have wandered into it's depths.

And yet, another male figure approached. Three...Three in total. A soft frown alit her visage, but it did not remain in place for long. A smile shortly replaced it, and Dhizzandra made a motion with fingertips and appendage alike.

"Very well, come, this way. We travel through the creek." With that being said, the woman began the shallow wade to pursue the other shore. Dhizzandra did not pause to see if they would follow, and simply continued on her way. She would guide them through the maze of trees and thick forage for what seemed an eternity until a clearing would come into view.

And in the clearing, was a hut of basic materials, materials that could easily be found within the forest. Wood, leaves, soft patching, and a somewhat haphazard doorway that threatened to fall from it's placement.

Inside, the hut was one large room, a cooking pot and fire in the middle, soft furs across the floor, and a small row of books stacked neatly along the farthest wall. Collections she had gathered from previous travellers.

"As I mentioned, it is not grand. But it is warm, and safe."

~Eyes filled with sorrow found Echo as he emerged from the forest behind Blue and her companion, and his body tensed slightly for a moment, expecting the man to either attack him on sight, or insight further hostilities, yet with a small nod from the man, Zelis’s body loosened, but he did not relax, and his mind was in a conflict. Half of him wanted to stay and ignore the man, focusing on the mystery that was Blue, yet the other have told him to either kill the man or run, for Zelis had seen him earlier, and he remembered the insanity that shown through his facial features.

Through force of will, Zelis decided to remain there, though the notion of going to the woman’s house appealed to him not. He thought to ask Blue for a moment alone, but with her current state of clothing and Echo’s presence, the idea was stowed away for later. For now though, he would look above the forest, looking to see what he could.

“You can go, but I stay here.” As he spoke, his gaze shifted to the child that had offered the trio sanctuary, looking her in the eye. He knew the girl meant well, but he did not sleep if he could help it, and nor did he eat of drink unless he desired to, and at present, his did not. Whether or not they argued with him would be irrelevant, for cloaked himself in Umbra’s dark embrace and shifted away from the group. He need time to think.

She said the scar came from a dagger he thought as his feet touched down upon soft soil over a mile away from the pair, appearing in the darkness of a small cave that had formed over the centuries in the side of a small hill. As his mind went over the new information that he had been given, his right hand full unconsciously down Umbra’s ebon colored hilt, his fingers feathering over the top gently. He sat down on the ground, pulling his knees to his chest and hugging them closer. He did not bother letting the shroud of darkness fall as he sat there, memories colliding with theories inside his cranium.~

Blue's optics remained upon Zelis, waiting for confirmation that he had not inflicted any damage upon her partner while in her absence. She was uncertain how effectively Echo could defend himself when insanity threatened to break through the flimsy restraints upon it that would easily erode away from few simple droplets of rain from the heavens that spited him. And because of this, she needed confirmation that she had no reason to accost Zelis at this moment, as her dagger was prepared to transit into a projectile aimed at his head, to strike at the frontal lobe and limit biological, autonomous functions.

But not long after she had posed her inquiry, an answer to her silent question emerged from the depths of the forest as Echo's voice arrived to reassure her that he was physically well, if not mentally. Blue's eyes roamed until they settled upon her partner, upon that nonchalant smile that she had become familiar with, and the tension in her muscles ebbed and the grip on her dagger became secure now that she was certain she would not need to use it upon Zelis. No, she did not greet Echo with a smile and a relieved expression, like a normal companion would, but it was as close to expressing the tangible concern that had not risen to her countenance.

"That's good."

She replied to Echo, after confirming that no harm had befallen him in her absence. She did take note of the tension that had rippled through Zelis' body upon the sight of her companion, but that was quickly put to ease as Echo silently expressed a mutual understanding that they would not quarrel here. Not now.

Her attention was coaxed back to the caramel toned woman as the female spoke up, questioning the numbers that she would need to offer her hospitality to. But as for companions, a fleeting glance was given to Zelis.

"I only have one companion."

Blue stated, gesturing toward the man that had finally decided to join him after collecting the fractured pieces of his sanity which the rain had threatened to sweep away.

"His name is Echo."

Blue thought it proper to announce her partner's identity, for she had read in a novel once that it was only courtesy to disclose your name to those that offered hospitality. Though how long this woman would be of value had yet to be determined. But once she could no longer benefit them and her purpose was achieved, she would be insignificant and would be terminated if seen fit. But back on the subject of names, this woman had yet to disclose her identity.

At least the predicament that they would face if this woman had to house three individuals was soon solved as Zelis' decided to retreat. Blue could only observe as the man was engulfed by the darkness and disappeared from her sight. He was certainly... peculiar. He revealed himself one moment then fled the next. What drove this individual? What was the cause to his perplexing behavior? Blue did not know, and would remain oblivious to the fact that she was the main reason that elicited such behavior from Zelis.

But now that the man had withdrawn from the group, it was time to focus on the matter at hand. If it came down to it, Blue would settle outside and allow Echo to share the quarters with the female so that he may be protected from the insanity the rain threatened him with. For now, the sun graciously offered them warmth and held the rain at bay, if only for a moment. Blue would cast a fleeting glance toward her partner, to see if he would agree and pursue the female who was already trudging through the water. Blue would retrieve her moist attire and neatly fold them before cradling them to her chest and proceed to follow the female.

She would allow this unnamed stranger to guide them through the labyrinth of the forest and reminded herself to pose the question of a possible exit once the three of them were settled down. The duration of their journey was undetermined but narrowed eyes rose to the darkening skies. She fell back to walk beside Echo. The intentions of this gesture was undetermined. Perhaps she was preparing for the worst if the sky decided to weep. Or perhaps she came to stand beside him to reassure him that she was there. This could not be deciphered as her half-naked body strolled with him silently, her wet clothes held comfortably as they arrived upon the home of the stranger.

Blue would pause as she scrutinized her new surroundings. It certainly was not meant to house more than a couple individuals but it would certainly benefit them. Her attention fell upon Echo, as she awaited to see if he approved or not upon the possibly temporary shelter until they could return to Nede, before her eyes fell back on the female.

"Thank you for the hospitality. I recall you offered a pair of dry clothes. I would appreciate that but perhaps after I clean up first. I am a tad dirty so I will return when I am done."

Turning to Echo.

"Echo, perhaps you should help her find some food. We haven't eaten for a couple of days now and I don't know about you but I am hungry. How about you help her make dinner while I go take a small bath. I'm sure you can handle that at least."

She stated, staring at him for a moment with a peculiar expression before she reached out, patted his cheek, and nodded.

"Yes, I'm confident you can handle that small task."

With that said, she placed her clothes out to dry then headed off to the creek. It would provide her with momentary privacy now that she had given the two a task to preoccupy themselves with as she arrived at the stream after a moment or two of walking and proceeded to scan the vicinity to ensure she had no peeping tom before wading into the water. Unfortunately, with two males roaming around, she desired to be submerged in the water before she would proceed to remove the remainder of her clothes to wash them and then herself.

((This occurs in the cave in which Zelis shadowdanced into, and is far away from everyone else currently.If needed, I can move this to another thread until everyone regroups.))

~The smell of dank mildew was the first thing he experienced as he shifted into the cave. Optics were useless in this area for the father and son, yet any other being would be bound to notice the shining eyes the pair possessed. Osgoth listened for a moment, searching for some clue that he had found the right place this time. He knew Mori preferred his privacy when it came to smithing, and this was about as secluded an area as one could find.

“Daddy, I have to go pee” came a small voice behind his head, Alastor’s small form resting easily on his shoulders. Osgoth reached up and lifted the small boy from his perch and set him down on the rough stone floor. Pulling himself back up, he held his it left hand, holding it in front of him, as if holding a small orb in his hand.

“Lumen.”

As he spoke the Angelic word, a ball of white light, like a miniature star, appeared in his upturned hand, illuminating the area. As the boy went being a stalagmite to relieve himself, Osgoth scanned the area, noting nothing of interest save for a small breeze that flowed out of the cavern and out into the outside world. When the boy had finished, Osgoth scooped him up once more with his right hand, grasping the small belt the boy wore to keep his pants up, and replaced his son onto his perch. Walking toward the supposed exit, he felt a small tap on the top of his head. Turning his head slightly to acknowledge the boy, he continued onward at a leisurely pace.

“Daddy, I feel someone over there. He’s really sad.” Osgoth smiled at his son, as always wondering how he knew what he did, but he did not question the boy, for every time he felt someone nearby, he had always been right.

“Let’s go see if we can cheer his up then, shall we?” said the man as he continued walking down the path leading out, turning at a corner and seeing the light of day striking the far wall.

As he got close to the sunlight, he released his concentration on the orb of light in his hand, letting it fade and gutter out. Placing his hands on the tops of his son’s feet, he turned the last corner leading to the light when he was presented with a rather peculiar sight. A black orb, as dark as night, was nestled against the wall behind a rather large boulder. “He’s right there.” said Alastor as he pointed at the strange orb. Osgoth turned toward the man, and spoke in a clear voice.

“Excuse me, sir, but do you happen to know where I might find Angel Mori?”~

-Those orbs never once left Zelis while he still was there; even though his body had remained calm the insanity in his eyes never left.But put on one hell of a show for others; Echo had lost it in the memories that he kept reliving but never once would he show them. Then just as he had come the first time Zelis had fled; a soft smile rose to the lips of the Wind Knight and he turned to watch the new woman descend into the water. With a shake of his head; he followed into the water. He had not spoken another word to any one; he didn't feel he needed to.

Indeed he hated the blasted thing but it was the only way and he was soaked to the bone already. Keeping a tight grip on the Wind Song he bit back the pain that rose in his mind; memories began to flood in once more as if someone had opened the door to his past. Shaking his head he slipped out of the water and sighed slightly. treading the lands he soon saw Blue drop back by his side. She was acting odd; but it did make him feel a bit more at ease.

"Thanks."

The solemn words floated out of his lips; just until they came to the small home of the woman. Eying it slightly; he turned to listen to Blue; the soft touch of her hand made him lean into the hand with out him truly realizing it.

"Alright."

Echo didn't say much; he just turned to the woman and waited for her to lead the way. As Blue began to retreat into her own he sighed a bit more. How could he simply tell her? She would think it was some kind of joke. Shaking his head again; those optics fell back upon his partner and soon where pulled away. What was happening to him? Why was he acting like that? Shrugging he looked to the skies; they seemed fine so he would not take the cabin if it was offered. Truly he wasn't very hungry but if Blue was he would help get her some food.

"Where to?"

While one man requested, no, demanded to stay behind, Dhizzandra was satisfied with the two that would follow. One would provide company, for that was all the young female yearned, but two tended to make for better conversation.

And another chose to stray away as they reached the destination. It was nice outside, the weather was perfect...therefore, it was logical for someone to wish to remain within it's splendor. A curious glance had been given to the two, however. The woman said only one companion, but there were two people...How people confused her.

"Oh! My apologies, I never once did offer you my name. I am called Dhizzandra, and please excuse my lack of manners, it has been a while since anyone has wandered through these woods. Or that I have seen, in any case."

The small statured female paused, before offering a wisp of a smile to grace the slender and dark visage.

"Clothes, of course. I will gather them and set them out."

With that statement, the female disappeared within the confines of the small 'house' only to return moments later with a dress fashioned as hers, although the strands that fell from the mid line were longer, more suitable for Blue's taller stature. Setting aside the dress on one of the large rocks outside the hut, Dhizzandra's optics quickly turned towards Echo, and another smile was offered.

"We need go nowhere. I have gathered food for the rainy season, thus, it is all here. I have already started the meal of the day, it is in a pot over the fire. You can eat when you are ready. I apologize if it is nothing you are used to, but it what this forest provides."

~Sitting there, Zelis’s mind wandered over his recent experiences. He had gone from simply trying to be left alone, left to wallow in his eternal grief, yet, again, there were those who sought to gain his powers by force. In the process, he met with a pair of individuals, one of which held the face and markings of his first and only love. Another things that intrigued him was their exit of Nede, for it was the first time he had ever used his abilities to help others. It was a frightening notion, in and of itself.

As Zelis stewed in his thoughts, he heard the voices issue from inside the cave. Lost as he was in thought, and cloaked in darkness, he did no worry about the person from which the voices issued until he heard the man ask his question. It is a puzzling feeling, being hunted for years on end, and then suddenly being referred to as “sir”,

“No, I haven’t,” the dour man said with a flat voice, yet a surprising feeling overtook him, and he returned the man’s question with another.

“Who are you?”

Perhaps he simply wanted someone to speak to, or perhaps he wanted to distance himself from the thoughts that plagued him. He knew not. Zelis stood, letting the veil of darkness fall, and he looked the man in the eye, and what eyes he had. They glowed with an inner light, it seemed. The man was tall, and strongly built. His appearance spoke of a warrior’s life, the long swords hung at his waist reinforcing that fact, yet he held a small boy, who eyes were the same as the man’s. Zelis assumed the boy to be the man’s son, and part of him wondered why a warrior would carry a child with him. The boy was a liability, especially in battle.~

Blue cleansed herself in the purified liquid with the derivation from the ice-capped mountains that surrounded the valley in which the forest bordered. Perhaps her
cerebrum denied to accept the existence of pain but it did not deny the presence of temperature. Goosebumps ran rampant along the surface of her smooth flesh as she cleansed herself of the impurities her body had accumulated in the previous day or two that Echo and herself had resided within the forest in which they had been deposited it at by the mysterious Zelis.

Fortunately, she had remained undisturbed as she completed the task and soon strolled out of the cool running stream and proceeded to approach the moist underwear that had been hung out to dry beneath the lowering sun. She now had the decision on whether or not to traverse naked back to Echo and Dhizzandra since she had been impatient and had not taken into consideration to await for a dry attire before she ventured out to the creek. She preferred traversing with an attire that at least hid her essentials, even if it was still wet, as she adorned herself in the bra and underwear before she headed off.

Blue grasped at the opportunity to examine her surroundings as she took the journey back to the abode which had been provided for them by the generous Dhizzandra. Blue observed a pair of rabbits dart in her path, pausing for a moment to scrutinize her with pink, wiggling nose before they would flee as she approached. Sapphire optics rose to catch the sight of aerial creatures overhead which soon disappeared within the green foilage of the trees. The young woman was surrounded by the beautiful symphony of the birds that sang to one another in their hidden spots.

Blue could also sense the mana that surged through the contents of the land in a powerful current in which the forest took advantage of. The mana manifested in the flourishing greenery and beauty, prismatic colors illuminating the vicinity. She paused to gently touch the bark of a tree and she felt a noticeable current that ascended her arms from the mana that the tree harbored. This place was indeed entrancing but one should not be deceived. Once night arrived, it would bring with it sinister threats in which Dhizzandra had warned about earlier on. It would be wise not to linger longer than necessary.

Hopefully Echo and Dhizzandra had by now prepared sustenance for the evening as she traversed along the invisible path, relying on memory to guide her back to her partner. Now that their mission to eliminate The Leaders had been all but ruined, her purpose had not been sustained. She still had a desire to return to Nede, and not merely to spite The Leaders like Echo did. She hoped that Farfarello may reside within the population in the diverse town. She hoped to discover him and pose her inquiry upon him. Perhaps he could fill in the missing puzzles to her existence.

Until then, she would remain in the forest until she found a means to return to Nede. Perhaps if she ran across Zelis again, she would ask him if he knew how to return to the town.

The rumble in her stomach brought her back to the present. If anything, she could look forward to a meal.

~Osgoth listened as the man replied, hoping for a favorable answer, yet not expecting it. He was rewarded once again with nothing, and it was becoming a minor annoyance, yet that was the price of finding his lost friend. He watched the man rise, letting the black shell that encased him fall away. The man was of a smaller build, lithe and quick like an acrobat. Osgoth lifted Alastor from his shoulder and set him on the rocky ground beside him. The boy stood close to his left leg, shifting back and forth from interest to fear at the sight and feel of the stranger. Osgoth merely smiled at the man’s question, and answered

“My apologies. I forgot to introduce myself and my son. My name is Osgoth Nezzera, and this little one is Alastor. Say hello to the man, Alastor.”

“Umm, hello…” said the boy, feeling slightly bashful when doing so. His eyes watched the stranger, seeing the daggers at his waist and the messy grey hair that topped his form.
In his mind, the boy could feel the mixture of confusion and sorrow that radiated from the man, and he bravely asked “Why are you so sad?”

Osgoth thought of chiding his son for such a direct question, but stilled his tongue, hoping to find out why the man was troubled. It had nothing to do with his quest, but Osgoth was not heartless, and truly wished to help where he could.~

~Zelis watched the man set the boy down upon the rough stone floor, his mind instinctively getting ready for combat. His hands, still within the confines of his cape, began to form weapons when the man introduced himself and his son. Looking down at the boy when he said his greeting, Zelis froze, a shred of what remained of his humanity forcing him to still his hand. He would not hurt a child, not unless he had no other choice.

The boy’s question caught him off guard, for he had never, not in his whole life been asked why he mourned. He had never told anyone of his past, for none had ever asked. They had always either hunted him for his gifts, or cursed him for practicing what they believed to be the dark arts. From the depths of his tainted, battered soul, an unknown emotion welled up, seeking to have him lay his soul bare, have all his deeds put before him, to know whether or not he deserved the judgment he for so long inflicted upon himself.

“Zelis is my name,” he said, looking Osgoth in the eye before turning his gaze toward the boy and crouching down to be of a level height with the boy, and said ”and if you truly wish to know, I will tell you. I warn you, it is a long tale.”

Zelis sat once more, his knees draw to his chest with his back to the rough wall of the cave. Turning to look for a moment at the sky outside, he noticed a storm front coming for the west toward the forest. It would rain once more this night.~

Smiling slightly; at the odd woman he nodded and turned his head to the sky; they clods once more where growing dark. This wasn't good; Echo could already feel him self slowly losing control that he had gained once more. Please hurry back Blue...He thought for a swift moment and lifted a slender hand to shield his eyes from the sun. Echo didn't like being around people he didn't know it always made him uneasy.

Shaking the thought for a moment he slapped him self; the slender digits curling to fight back the demons that hid inside of his body. Gripping the Wind Song as she began to hum he sighed.

"Shh; I'll be fine. It's just rain."

Of course this was one hell of a lie. Even if he wouldn't be touched by it just the thought of hearing it sent his mind into a race; the affinity around him began to gather. Cold chills where sent into the forest as the youth tried to fight back what was so strong inside of him. Get a hold of your self you idiot; it's rain not a flood. Mentally slapping him self he sighed quickly and turned to the woman.

"If Blue comes back before I do I should be back shortly."

Pulling the hood a bit more over his head the youth began to descend into the forest. He didn't want to be around any one when it happened; and he could feel it was happening soon. He didn't want the sight of his demons gaining control to be caught. Shaking his head once more; the youth sighed and stopped his eyes slowly closing.
_________________

Two gone, and now alone.

A gentle frown found the woman's visage, and arms crossed over her chest for a brief moment, before a sigh was given. The cloud's gave way to the weather forecast, and thus...rain would come. Did the man not know he would be safest in the hut? A gentle shake of the head was given, and Dhizzandra grabbed up the dry dress, moving off in the direction in which Blue had gone.

It was not hard to follow the woman's trail, but it helped that Dhizzandra knew this forest like her own hand, and could find a way to just about anywhere in a matter of moments. The slightly overturned forage of the forest floor left an easy path for one who knew what to look for. As Dhizzandra approached Blue's stalled figure, sapphire optics focused completely.

"It did not occur to me that you didn't wish to wait for dry clothes. So, I brought them to you." The dress was offered towards the woman's figure, and Dhizzandra chose to turn, and move back towards the hut.

"Your companion has gone. He said...he will be back shortly. There is a meal already finished and waiting you."

Dhizzandra chose not to wait, this time, and merely continued back to her own house, to gather bowls and what plates she might have left.

Blue would pause in her path as she heard someone approaching and soon Dhizzandra appeared within her line of vision. Blue merely blinked, wondering if the two had grown impatient and if she had taken longer than expected. But she soon realized the intentions of Dhizzandra as she spoke to her and offered her a pair of dry clothes. Her eyes lowered to the dry attire, hands rising to receive the fabric before they faltered in mid-rise. A dress.

"Thank you."

Blue spoke as her hands received the offering and she held it out in front of herself for examination. A dress... Of course. She should have expected this as her eyes followed the flamboyantly dressed female who had turned and began her journey back to her home. Blue gave a small, resigned sigh and would proceed to position herself behind a tree so that she may undress from the moist underwear and slip on the more comfortable fabric.

The dress was a little small, as Dhizzandra had warned, as Blue tugged it down until the end of it fluttered around her knees. The tight fit emphasized her womanly curves but at least the skirt hung loosely around her thighs. And yet, the way it caressed her thighs as she proceeded to follow Dhizzandra back to the abode invoked unfamiliar sensations. Blue did not prefer dresses. Even the ivory color did not compensate for its lack of preferability. If only it had been azure.

Nevertheless, the clothes were dry and would stave off illness derived from the cool temperatures that the moist clothes sustained. Blue folded her underwear and headed back to the abode with Dhizzandra. She would retrieve her clothes, seeing as it appeared it would rain tonight. Speaking of rain, her eyes roamed the vicinity in search for Echo. She could only wonder where he had disappeared off to since Dhizzandra had announced his absence. She hoped he would not be foolish and venture far with the threat of rain approaching.

Blue caught up with Dhizzandra and observed her quietly as she went about to gather plates and utensils. Her stomach would offer a sound of anticipation as she caught the enticing aroma of sustenance permeating the air while she would stand aside and allow the smaller female to do as she pleased. Blue inquired, even as she idly tugged at the white dress that now adorned her lithe figure. She hoped her attire would be dry by morning as she took a seat upon the floor, awaiting for either the meal to be served or to be provided a plate or bowl so she may serve herself. Once she was sitting with the meal in place, she would proceed to eat. She would eat no more than necessary and then put the food side.

"Dhizzandra. I assume you know this forest well so I was wondering if you knew how to leave and head to the nearest civilization. If so, I would really appreciate it."

She inquired as she would lay down and idly toy with the white dress adorning her lithe figure. A yawn emanated from her for exhaustion was setting in as her eyes fell partway closed but she would not fall asleep until Dhizzandra answered her.

"It's going to happen...No matter how hard I try to stop it.."

The quick sigh was given as the youth looked to the skies; the change was coming and he could feel it ever step of the way as he fought to retain the little sanity he had left. Slender fingers curled around the hilt of Wind Song to try and calm her but she wouldn't have such a thing. Sending a sharp pain into Echos finger tips he jerked back and glared down at the blade.

"Fine"


Gray orbs lashed out at the sky; he could feel the oncoming rain that would soon pour over his body. Part of him wanted to turn and run; the other wanted it to come. It wanted to be set free in the chaos of the world. Shaking his head a sigh was heaved.

"Stop.."

He as speaking to the affinity that was starting to thrash about his body. despite he looked calm his mind was running circles slowly starting to take control over him.

Dhizzandra wasted little time in serving Blue, offering the woman the bowl full of what appeared to be stew like nourishment, and waited in silence as the other woman finished the meal. At the posed question, a curious glance was given.

"I know the forest well enough to know how to get out. The path is not far, and should take half a days worth of travel to reach the treeline, from there, there is a road that I am assuming, leads to a town. I have only travelled to the edge of the trees, and not the road itself."

Because doing so required leaving the comfort of the forest, the place called 'home.' It was only in one's nature to remain in places that were deemed comfortable, safe, and welcoming. Although there is the occassional urge to galavant in places that do not meet these requirements, they were rare at best.

"I will lead you there, in the morning if you so wish." Optics cast towards Blue briefly, before gliding to the cieling of the abode at the first, and soft patter of rain. With all hopes, the downfall would not last long, for if it did, the trip in the morning was likely to be twice as dangerous with sinkholes and mud.

(I apologize for the briefness.)

Blue remained laying upon the rugs that decorated the ground of Dhizzandra's abode while her eyes remained situated upon the constructed ceiling. Her eyes examined the structure of the house and it was easy to conclude that the metal items that this female possessed could have possibly all come from travels who were gracious for her aid and compassion and offered her these materials as gifts to show their appreciation. Blue held no such item that she could offer to the female, other than the daggers that she possessed and Dhizzandra already appeared to have cutting utensil. She will not need another.

Blue's eyes would softly fall upon the dark-toned female as she finally responded to her question, listening intently to what she had to say and would give a small nod of acknowledgment. This was indeed good news. If she could arrive at the nearest establishment, perhaps she could discover directions that would lead her back to Nede and a step closer to discovering any information toward the individual that she sought. She absently toyed with the ivory dressed that held snugly to her figure and could not help but realize that it would provide meager protection from the elements, primarily the drop in temperature throughout the evening.

"Thank you. I would appreciate it."

She stated before her eyes would follow the trail of Dhizzandra's as they would cast upon the cieling where the sound of rain commencing resonated through the chamber. Blue's eyes narrowed, taking note that Echo had not returned. Where had that imbecile gone off to? He should have known better than to venture out with the threat of rain looming and now he was going to be caught up in it. Blue gave a small sigh. For his own folly, he would have to sleep beneath the canopy of a tree if he desired to avoid the touch of the rain. Blue would not seek him out for his own recklessness.

Without another word, Blue turned to her side and placed her back to the female, dismissing any further conversation between her and Dhizzandra. Blue was exhausted, the heavy weight on her eyes reinforced that as a small yawn emanated from her before optics disappeared behind lids and she absently spread the skirt of the white dress out across her thighs. Sleep would not elude her this evening, especially with the soothing rhythm of the rain that surrounded her and lulled her to sleep. She was oblivious to the fact that Echo's absence foretold the ominous future of havoc and chaos. Only time would tell what would greet them in the morning, or during the cover of the night.

The disturbed mind of the youth commenced down a spiraling stair case of his sanity. The clock in his mind began to turn; gears meshing together and commencing a different way then normal. The dark orbs of gray began to mix with shades of pink and red. What was happening to young Echo? Had his sanity at last caved in and completely drove him insane. Gripping his right arm; it began to ripple with pain muscles ripping the skin and showing the tensing pink. What's happening!? The thought rushed into his mind; bouncing around like a ball in a steel box.The pain that rippled through his body announced the metamorphosis that was commencing, the mutation piercing into his cranium. He was changing; the insanity taking on a form of the true monster that was with in the young knight. That soft voice began to grow deeper; darker, demonic. Glaring at the skies his eyes went blank; slowly the youth fell to his knees and the change began to take it's shape.

With a strong aura of wind building around his body it created a cocoon of sorts;shielding the outside from this monster that was being born. Moaning with in his the slender digits began to melt together. Long strands of once white beautiful hair started to shed off his head and grow to a deep blue. Why? Why had the gods not saved the youth from his doomed fate...But what was this? A calling.

Echo; my dear son come...Be with mommy.

Mommy?

Yes my love it's mommy come home.

Okay mommy.

Those words; those memories began to flood into the youths mind; happy times until...They began to darken. Screams of pain and agony began to sound through out his mind. Flashes of that fateful night when his father had unleashed his wrath upon the world and drowned his mother in their own pond outside. And he; alone stood to watch as his father turned onto him. Those lips moved but no sound came to the youths mind; instead a yell was sounded to the world around him

Mommy!

The dark voice sounded and the rage of wind began to shutter at his fury. In his mind he replayed the night of his parents death. The drowning of his mother; and the ending of his sad fathers life. That blade that slid so cleanly into the mans neck; the scarlet ribbons that dripped down his throat and onto the ground around Echos feet made him smile. Yes; pain. The storm raged on in his mind replaying all the events that slowly ate away at his very soul. Then it stopped; the blank eyes became full with insanity and color all at once. Shades of pink;purple and red spun; showing the eye of a true storm that was never ending inside of his mind. They opened wide; and looked at this new body. The youth had become the epitome of insanity and instability, manifesting from the desecrating core that resided in the depths of his being.

"Heh"

That one sound was made; as the youth rose to his feet. His right hand; or claw as it was now opened a closed a small gem set in the middle. This was where his power was going to be drawn from. Grinning; he felt the change in the once peaceful Wind Song. Her blade now darker then night that seemed to eat the very shadows surrounding him. A hilt that was twisted and curved into sick images that no normal human would bare to rest eyes upon. And her anger flying about in his head; she too had changed. She had regained control. The fight between sane and insanity had come to an end. Sadly enough Echo had lost that battle and the demons that ran across his soul had won.

Shifting; the now larger form; Echos lips curled into a smile so sinister even Lucifer him self would cower at the young knight. His time for change had began.

(This post is a colab. of both Blue and my self; credit goes to her as well n.n)