Legends of Ortygia
The one who loved
‘’ Get away from me!
Take heed to thyself and see my face no more!
For in the day thou see my face
Thou shalt die! ‘’
-Exodus 10:28-
I
The voices. The screams. His name, echoed over and over again by a thousand voices. Exalted from its mortal nature and into the heavens.
The applause, the shouts of glory. Pure love reaching into him, surrounding him completely. A wave of love and devotion hitting him whenever the voices rose.
We love you! , they screamed, and they did, loved him with their entire hearts, with their souls. They would die for him. They would die for a single glance, for a single moment of his eyes seeing nothing but theirs. They would die to be his world.
The music started after some minutes, a sweet murmur that rose slowly and steadily towards a cry of victory, when all the voices went silent and allowed the notes of the piano and guitars to tame them, awaiting for the breakthrough.
Waiting for him.
He closed his eyes, a faint smile curving his lips. There it was, Leanan’s violin shattering the night and joining the music, turning it into a conquering sea of sounds. That was the cue for the grand entrance, the final push before submitting to that hypnotised crowd. His eyes opened slowly, casting a sidelong glance to Gawain’s hands.
As always, the thundering drums were the ones to announce the presence of the sacrifice.
The lights flashed over the stage, flames turning it afire, making the lights of Tokyo seem pale compared to its incandescence. And the voices rose again, breaking their trance to scream for their God.
And he looked at them, that absent look they loved, as he walked through the fire and embraced the microphone as he would embrace his lover, his lips brushing the metallic surface before his voice reached out for the lions at his feet and made them his.
The God had descended and the faithful chanted for him.
‘’ I’ll invade your world and devour your mind! ‘’ he cried out, his deep, melodic voice reaching their souls, taking them into a road to exhilaration.
Magnus smirked when the music started to rise around him once again, Surya’s and Llewellyn’s guitars mixing with Ethan’s bass to follow Deirdre’s piano, each note stressed by Gawain’s drums, all of them under the spell of Leanan’s violin. He started to sing then, when the music had reached its climax and nothing seemed able to shatter it. Seemed, because his voice rose over the clamouring of the storm of sounds and turned them into whispers, giving the final strike to the impassioned lions.
For a sacrifice, he was more than able to silence the lions’ roars.
II
...Run....
...Faster, always faster...
...They are near...
The streets lost their shape as she moved through them, dancing between crowds that could not see her, being nothing but a sudden breeze when passing by their sides.
...Justice hides in Tokyo...
...So run...
...Run with all your might...
...Because they are after you...
She leaped over some garbage cans, falling on her knees. A part of her wanted to wait, to seek for a place to hide and cure her wounds. A part of her wanted to look over her shoulder and see if they were still behind her. But that would take too much time, and they would catch her. So she got on her feet and kept on running, her master’s dying words echoing over and over again in her head, silencing the screams of the streets.
...Run...
...Justice hides in Tokyo...
...Run to her with all your might...
...They will kill you if they catch you...
... So run...
Tears slid down her cheeks, wet kisses that felt cold when running against the wind.
For him. She had to live for him. And find Justice to speak the truths about Sanctuary. To tell her that her land had turned red with the blood of faithful saints.
But they were so near... she could even feel them sometimes; their breaths warm against her neck, their fingers brushing the skin of her arms, trying to grab her, to stop her madden race.
... They will kill you if they catch you...
Like they had killed her master. Turned him to shreds before her eyes, as if he were nothing but a rag doll. His cosmo had collapsed at the touch of Sanctuary’s assassins, leaving him defenceless. Yet still he had managed to tell her to run, to escape, even when his body was being destroyed, his cosmo had kept on telling her. To run to Justice’ side. So she did. Even when twice they had cornered her, even when their fangs had marred her legs and arms, she had always managed to break free, carrying her message to Justice despite of her wounds.
After all, it was the dove’s duty to be a messenger. She could not... would not... die before fulfilling her chore.
‘’ Yet you will. There’s no... ‘’
‘’ ... hope of survival ‘’
Her blood went cold when hearing their voices, sounding so close, so near...
‘’ We will catch you... ‘’
‘’ ... and break your wings ‘’
Their fingers burned her skin, hands afire with cosmo trying to take hold of her wrists.
‘’ Because... ‘’
‘’ ... you are a traitor ‘’
She opened her mouth to scream, knowing this time she wouldn’t be able to avoid them, knowing there was no possible escape. She had broken free when unharmed and fresh, but now she was tired and wounded. Her body would fail her cosmo and she would be theirs, another rag doll torn apart by their fangs.
‘’ No matter how fast you run... ‘’
‘’ ... we will always be right behind you ‘’
‘’ Broken mirrors, silent jealousy, maidens withering away while they are crying... over and over, and over and over again...Tears mark our fates... ‘’
She blinked when hearing that voice, a voice that was able to silence her persecutors, to push them away from her. Only the wind danced around her, the wind and the notes from a far-off song, strengthened by that deep, magical voice, able to subdue the Kyoko’s lapdogs.
It wasn’t until the song ended that she realised she had stopped her race and was standing in the middle of an alley, damp walls stretching endlessly by her sides. And even when she knew she should be running away from there, she remained still, staring down the alley towards its end, where a huge building stood; a giant made of glass, steel and bright white lights, whose head was crowned by a tiara of shimmering beams and sparkling fireworks.
She knew then that there was nothing to fear, for the voice started to whisper its secrets once again from the top of the building, showing her a haven in that stadium among the stars. And they would not be able to reach her there, for they feared the secret that hid that voice. They feared the cosmo that was emanating from it, breaking into theirs.
A cosmo that was, without doubts, godly.
III
‘’ How do I look? ‘’
The cameraman gave the petite woman the ok while checking the angles for the take, listening attentively to the orders through his headphone in the meantime.
The woman sighed, shaking her head slightly while touching up her already perfect make up. She was the effigy of style and class, the role model of tons of teenagers all across Japan, and the only media person allowed in the backstage of the Fallen Angels, an exclusivity well-deserved thanks to her good connections and years of experience at foreign bands’ concerts. Yet despite everything, she couldn’t but help feeling like a schoolgirl, and all because he was going to be there soon.
The singer with the voice of the angels.
‘’ In five, Maya! ‘’ She started at the voice of her cameraman, fixing her clothes and practising her smile before nodding at him.
He beamed back, and started the countdown.
‘’ Five... ‘’
The roaring of the thousands of fans almost deafened her when the door of the small room was opened, still claiming for another song even when the band had already played three out-of-schedule themes and had left the stage five minutes ago.
‘’ Four... ‘’
The members of the band walked into the room, their beaming faces reflecting the success of their tour through Asia. A small man was talking excitedly to them, over-gesturing each word. The translator, she thought, taking a mental note.
‘’ Three... ‘’
Maya felt herself blush when seeing the tall, lean man walking behind the rest of the band. His face was detached even when everyone kept congratulating him, moving among them with the grace of a dancer to sit languidly on the sofa before her. She knew he was nothing but an eighteen years old with the voice and looks of a grown-man, but couldn’t but feel mesmerised by his movements.
The cameraman finished the countdown in silence, and the professional mask she was so proud of did not fail her despite of her nervousness.
‘’ Good evening, Tokyo! I am Maya Kawataro from Teen Ai!, bringing you the aftermath of the Fallen Angels show, the band that has captivated the hearts of fans all over the world with their songs and wonderful performances ‘’ She beamed to the camera before shifting on her seat, knowing that the previous position was ok for close-ups, but wasn’t very flattering for wide-range takes. ‘’ But we are not alone tonight, with us we have the seven talented youths that give shape, heart, and soul to this outstanding band that is changing the history of music as we speak. Surya and Llewellyn, the mighty guitars of the band... ‘’ she began, bowing her head to the dark, hazel-eyed brothers, who nodded in response, giving her a tired smile ‘’ Ethan and Deirdre, the ones responsible of those exciting bass and piano duos... ‘’ The young blonde giggled when the translator told them what she had said, while the boy took the opportunity to show the ring around one of the girl’s fingers. Great, another exclusive, thought Maya, congratulating them. ‘’ Gawain, the explosive drummer... ‘’ He stopped smoking his third cigarette to wink at the camera, green eyes sparkling behind unruly scarlet locks, ‘’ Leanan, the fairy-queen of the violin... ‘’ The black-haired girl looked at her, violet eyes narrowing ever so slightly. ‘’ Cut the crap, we are nothing of that. We sound good because we follow Magnus’ voice. Without him we would be nothing ‘’
Maya blinked at the bitter answer of the violinist, knowing the girl had ruined her chance of making a great introduction of the soul of the band. But she kept her smile and laughed at her comment, pretending she had taken it as a joke.
‘’ Yeah, good ol’ Magnus is our pretty mermaid ‘’ teased Gawain, placing his arm around the blue-eyed youth.
‘’ Well, it seems your partners have already introduced you ‘’ Maya beamed, getting back in control, ‘’ Yes, girls, the popular Irish beauty, Magnus Iasant is also with us tonight ‘’ she added to the camera, giving a chance to the translator to tell them what she had said.
‘’ So tell us, Magnus, you are young, good-looking and at the top of the world, there just has to be a special someone somewhere! ‘’ she asked, surprised at how... plain... the rest of the members of the band looked when compared to him. Yes, they were all beautiful and talented, like most members of teen bands, Surya and Llewellyn’s Indian and Celt blood giving them a mysterious air that was only enhanced by their dark skin and hazel eyes, while Deirdre was a fragile beauty and Gawain a disarrayed and oddly attractive youth. But all of them lost their shine when compared to the aloof Magnus, who could look attractive without trying to do so, fragile without being so, and mysterious without being disturbing. So perfect that both female and male fans all over the world fell at his feet.
‘’ Naze? Ore wa dare mo kamawan ‘’
Her eyes opened wide when he answered in Japanese, the translator shrugging when she glared at him for not telling her that he could speak the language.
‘’ I hate it when women try to jump in my bed ‘’ he added in a whisper, lifting Maya’s chin and bringing her face closer to his, ‘’ ... specially starlets without talent that fucked their way to the top... So don’t try... ore wa dare mo kamawan ‘’ he repeated, stressing each word before releasing her and leaning back on the sofa.
Leanan chuckled bitterly, the rest of the band looked puzzled, and Gawain cursed, rubbing his temples.
Maya tried to say something to save the situation, but was all too lost in the blue depths of his half-closed eyes, which looked as if he had just awoken. He had insulted her, a part of her kept telling her that. But he had been right. She loved him, just like the whole world did.
‘’ Jya mada... ‘’ he muttered, standing up in a fluent movement and leaving the room, Leanan and Gawain walking behind him while the rest of the band, still unsettled by their leader’s moody attitude, soon followed.
It was then, when the camera was off and everyone was still trying to figure out what had happened, that Maya understood why Magnus had behaved as he had, and why he had the right to do so.
He was perfect, and everyone was flawed.
It was futile to try to see further into him. He was above them.
IV
‘’ The worst part is that because of this little bad ass performance of yours, you’ll be on all the newspapers’ headlines and tv shows. Your popularity will skyrocket, and we, your shadows, will follow. Thank you very, very, much ‘’ stressed Leanan when they were exiting the building, Deirdre trying to calm her down by patting her back reassuringly. ‘’ What does talent have to do with this? Our music? ‘’ she let out, pushing Deirdre away to glare at Magnus, ‘’ Tell me, dammit! ‘’ she growled, closing her hands around his collar and cornering him against the wall.
‘’ Don’t, Leanan... it’s no use ‘’ Gawain muttered grimly, holding her by the shoulders. The small woman struggled for some seconds, but then collapsed, hiding her face against Gawain’s chest. ‘’ Well, bad ass or not, you can sing ‘’ she thought out loud, moving away from the drummer and brushing her tears away, granting Magnus her bitter smirk. ‘’ So I guess I am stuck with you, ‘till death do us part ‘’ she chuckled, walking in front of them towards the waiting limousine.
Gawain sighed, already used to Leanan’s anger towards Magnus, and his usual lack of care about what she had to say. About what anyone had to say. Sometimes he felt as if Magnus was only using them for their talent, because they were good musicians and wouldn’t mess up during the shows. It was then when he could understand Leanan’s anger. Like her, he had always been gifted. One of the best, if not the best. But there would always be Magnus, the one that outshone them all with his voice. With nothing but his frigging voice, no need of instruments, not even need of music to lead him. His voice made any instrument seem blunt and inadequate. His voice made their talent disappear.
Yet he was still Magnus, the same guy that had brought them all together, the one that cared only for being able to stand on a stage and sing, regardless of the results, of the money, of the fame. He was still his friend, and couldn’t hate him. Never would.
‘’ Well, mermaid, time to go to the hotel and celebrate ‘’ he said, swinging his arm over his shoulders and leading him to the limousine. ‘’ Maybe we could even take some groupies with us... ‘’ he added with a smug grin, glad to see Magnus smirking at his comment.
‘’ Baka ‘’
‘’ Oh, I do love it when you insult me in languages I had no idea you could speak, honey ‘’ he purred, just to get elbowed on the stomach, Magnus escaping his hold as if he were a ghost. ‘’ Maybe some cute fanboys, then? ‘’ he panted, the blow leaving him breathless.
‘’ You forgot our leader cares for no one, Gawain... maybe we should get him a goat ‘’ teased Ethan from the limousine, Deirdre giggling nervously at his comment. But only she did.
Gawain frowned, his usual smirk disappearing from his lips, Llewellyn and Surya shared a knowing glance, and Leanan, bitter, small Leanan, grinned deviously. Magnus said nothing, fixing his long black coat over his shoulders with a careless movement before walking towards the car as if nothing had happened. Yet they knew.
Only Gawain was allowed to tease Magnus. Only him.
Mocking a God had consequences. They would all play dumb and have fun that night, but they all knew, except the foolish Ethan and his love struck Deirdre, that the loving husband-to-be wouldn’t be a part of the band the next morning. Gawain was Magnus’ shadow, Leanan was a virtuous, and Llewellyn and Surya were too hungry for fame as to mess up. Ethan was dispensable, and Deirdre would be force to choose between leaving the band with her fiancé, or sticking to them.
She would stay. No one left Magnus once they had met him. He was their soul.
‘’ So, my Irish beauty... boys, gals... or maybe both? ‘’ Gawain teased to break the ice, walking behind the tall, ethereal singer.
‘’ Gawain... ‘’ began Magnus, but stopped, narrowing his azure eyes when looking over the red-head’s shoulder.
‘’ What is it? ‘’ Nothing affected Magnus, nothing was ever important enough as for him to care. Yet Gawain could see puzzlement in those mysterious orbs, and that troubled him.
‘’ What are you doing here? ‘’ he asked, ignoring Gawain’s worries to walk towards the corner ‘’ This place is closed to the public ‘’
‘’ This place is closed to the public ‘’
Gawain could feel the goosebumps on his skin when a faint, little voice repeated Magnus’ demands.
‘’ Surya, get the bodyguards... ‘’ he began, only to be stopped by their leader.
‘’ There is no need ‘’ he said absently, staring down the street.
‘’ Magnus... ‘’
He turned to look at him, smiling faintly at his worried look, ‘’ You shouldn’t worry so much over me, Gawain ‘’ he mused, placing his hand over his shoulder. ‘’ Specially when there are no reasons to worry in the first place ‘’ Magnus added, closing the subject.
‘’ And he says intruders are no reasons to worry ‘’ Gawain smirked, rolling his eyes, ‘’... at least we can leave to the mansion now? Whoever is out there doesn’t seem too eager to show itself ‘’
Magnus looked back to the end of the street for some seconds, his serious eyes resting on the shadows. ‘’ Ok... ‘’ he finally whispered, following Gawain into the car.
Yet he could still see her, knowing the others couldn’t, the woman dressed in white among the shadows, her masked face fixed on them.
‘’ Weirdo... ‘’ he thought out loud, shaking his head. The world was full of worms.
V
Godly cosmo. She had felt something like that only once in her life, flowing from the man who had sworn to speak nothing but Athena’s word. The power that made some men better than others. That set them among the stars.
She had felt something like that only once in her life, when the Kyoko had summoned her and her master, unleashing his lapdogs on them. The power that made some men more powerful than others. That gave them the strength to defy the gods and burn the stars.
Bronze Saints have the power of the heroes of old, her master had told her during her training, repeating words that had been passed on from generations ever since the first Saint swore allegiance to Athena; Silver Saints are the Goddess’ genii... And Gold Saints... they are the closest a mortal can get to the power of the Gods.
They were Athena’s wrath, justice and mercy, whose names remained hidden until the Goddess had need of them and summoned them to their Houses.
She had known, when the Kyoko accused her master of traitor and subdued him with a single touch of his cosmo, that he was one of them. One of the Golden Twelve.
And now she knew that she had found another one, hidden in that singer with a voice sweeter than honey, one that the Kyoko’s dogs feared and would help her to find Justice if he knew what was going on at Sanctuary.
Magnus, his companions had called him. A beautiful angel that would help her to bring Justice to Sanctuary and avenge her master’s fate.
She smiled behind her mask, placing the white hood of her cloth over her head, her eyes never leaving the limousine as it sped up through the dark streets. And with a flash of white cosmo, she followed it, not fearing the shadows that always persecuted her for the first time in her life.
VI
Leanan sprawled on the sofa, reaching for her side, where her violin and a bottle of champagne were. After a moment of hesitation, she took the bottle. There had been a time, long before joining the Fallen Angels, when she had played every night after a concert for her fellow musicians. She had loved being part of an orchestra, being the best, the star, the virtuous. But centuries seemed to have passed since those days in which she had considered herself perfect.
Beyond human, able to bring to life the sweetest notes and saddest tunes with her violin.
But then she had listened to him. Her friends had convinced her to go to a small pub during a tour through Ireland after one of the orchestra’s concerts, and there he was. A striking yet absent-looking boy, drinking some cider in a corner of the pub with a hot red-head. A vision sprung from Faery itself. Her friends had noted him too, everyone had, and they dared her. She smirked, running her eyes over his lean body, staring at his full lips, aquamarine locks and blue eyes. He was younger than her, yes, but that hadn’t stopped her before.
So she got up and walked to sit between the boys, buying some ale for the red-head and whispering sweet words in the elfic beauty’s ear. He didn’t even look at her, not even when she told him who she was, not even when she promised she would play her violin for him and dedicate him a song. He remained impassive, drinking his cider calmly until the landlord announced him. He stood up slowly, his body seeming to glow with a crimson aura when he walked to the small stage.
‘’ He won’t pay you any attention, lass, he is not that kind of lad ‘’ smirked the red-head, leaning against the wall, his green eyes never leaving his friend.
Leanan had started to tease him for that comment when the aquamarine-haired beauty began to sing. The world shattered around her when his deep voice began to intone a lament, reaching notes that she had never thought existed. Baritone, tenor, he was able to move through the depths of his voice the same way he moved between the spell-bounded crowd. Just like a ghost.
She had fallen from grace that night, knowing that she was not the best, and never would. She didn’t return to the hotel; nor to the orchestra, and asked Magnus if he would sing to the music of her violin instead.
His blue eyes had fixed on her, and he shook his head faintly. You will play to the music of my voice, he had answered as if he had always known. And she agreed, despite she hated him with her whole heart, she agreed. Because she knew there was no other person she would have played for after listening to his voice.
‘’ To our mighty leader ‘’ she muttered grimly, taking a large gulp of champagne before handing the bottle to Deirdre, the blonde politely refusing it and giving the bottle to Ethan. Surya and Llewellyn had already left the hall of the mansion a media mogul had lent them for their stay at Japan, and were already in one of the rooms with some groupies, their high-pitched laughter reaching the hall from time to time.
‘’ See? They know how to have fun... ‘’ grumbled Gawain, stretching by Leanan’s side and resting his head on her lap, her hands stroking his red locks unconsciously.
‘’ You could always go and join them ‘’ yawned Ethan, dozing on Deirdre’s shoulder.
Gawain smirked, his green eyes resting on the silent figure of Magnus, who was sitting on the floor next to the window, looking at the dark garden. ‘’ Nah, I am too old for that ‘’ he finally said, making everyone but Magnus chuckle.
‘’ Then what’s left for us? ‘’ said Deirdre, smiling sweetly, ‘’ If you are old, we are ancient ‘’
‘’ That you are ‘’ teased Gawain, just to have his hair pulled by Leanan. ‘’ Hey, what was that for? ‘’ he let out, looking up at her.
‘’ Babies should respect their elders ‘’ she said matter-of-factly.
‘’ And cute elders should get hitched ‘’ he added, squeezing Leanan’s thigh, ‘’ Twenty eight and no boyfriend in sight... at least granny Deirdre and grandpa Ethan have each other, and they are younger than you ‘’
‘’ Bloody bastard ‘’ she chuckled, pushing him out of the sofa and to the ground.
‘’ That was mean, Leanan ‘’ he grumbled, returning to his place on the sofa and resting his head on her lap once again.
Ethan was about to tease him when Magnus got up, taking off his coat and leaving it carelessly on the floor before walking to his room.
‘’ Going to sleep so early, mermaid? ‘’
Magnus didn’t even bother to answer, disappearing through one of the mansion’s corridors.
‘’ I guess we’ll follow his example and hit the sack ‘’ said Ethan, helping Deirdre up, ‘’ We have the radio show in the morning, don’t we? ‘’
Leanan nodded, wishing them goodnight and poking Gawain’s shoulder to bring his attention back from the shadows of the corridor.
‘’ ‘Night, lover boy, don’t keep our golden lass up for long ‘’ he grinned, waving goodbye at the couple.
‘’ And what about you? ‘’ he whispered after some minutes, once Deirdre and Ethan had left, ‘’ Will you go to dreamland too, Lea? ‘’
She rested her violet eyes on his, shaking her head slowly. ‘’ Not really ‘’ she said, stroking his red locks. They were soft and silky. She hadn’t notice before, but his hair was really beautiful, falling on perfect locks over his broad shoulders, rebellious strands daring to cover his bright green eyes. ‘’ As a matter of fact, I am feeling very inclined to staying at the moment ‘’ she added, resting her hand on his chest.
He smiled bitterly, propping himself up in one elbow to place a feather-like kiss on her lips ‘’ You are a good lass ‘’ he said, stroking her cheek lightly. ‘’ But no one will be able to take you to the radio tomorrow if you don’t sleep ‘’ he added, standing up and walking towards the corridor.
Leanan got up, placing her arms around his waist from behind and resting her head against his back. He was so warm... so nice... ‘’ I can sleep later... ‘’ she ventured, hearing him sigh.
‘’ Leanan... ‘’ he muttered, placing one of his hands over hers, ‘’ I am not Magnus ‘’
She frowned, biting her lower lip. She knew that. But he was the only one who was allowed to get close enough to their leader. He had to be special. ‘’ He doesn’t care about you, Gawain ‘’ she finally whispered, releasing him.
‘’ And you do? ‘’ He smiled, breaking free from her embrace gently, ‘’ Goodnight, Lea, and try to get some sleep, we have a long day tomorrow ‘’
Gawain left her at the hall, knowing that she would drink herself to sleep and forget about the whole situation in the morning. He wished her anger wouldn’t be so great, that it wouldn’t increase her bitterness, but he knew he was wishing in vain.
But even he hated himself for that, he forgot about Leanan and her anger as he walked through the corridor, the hall disappearing behind him and with it the thoughts of the violinist, setting a new trail of thoughts before him.
The light was already out when he got into the room, closing the door behind him. Shadows spread through the walls and ceiling thanks to the moon that shone through the window, casting an eerie glow over Magnus, who was sitting on the bed, his blue eyes piercing the darkness to rest on his. With detachment, Gawain took off his boots and shirt, smirking when a pair of graceful hands reached for him from behind, unzipping his trousers.
‘’ Are we eager tonight, aren’t we? ‘’ he chuckled, starting to lose control over his breathing.
Magnus didn’t answer, turning him around to take possession of his lips. Taking, always taking, with a burning passion that only Gawain knew of, passion that always startled him and caught him off-guard, making him love him even more, making him give him all that he was, all that he would ever be, even when knowing that he would never have him in return.
VII
‘’ Why? ‘’ Gawain asked while they rested languidly on the bed, his green eyes fixed on the ceiling. Magnus shifted on his side, kissing his neck. ‘’ Why what, baka? ‘’
Gawain chuckled, locking his eyes on his, ‘’ Why do you have me when you know how I feel for you? ‘’
Magnus frowned thoughtfully, sitting on the bed. ‘’ Because this world is full of worms ‘’ he finally said, his voice as cold as some minutes ago had been urging. ‘’ And you are the best it has to offer ‘’
‘’ Is that supposed to be a compliment, luv? ‘’ he teased, reaching for the cigarettes at the night table and lighting one, its end glowing bright red in the darkness. ‘’ Hell, I heard worst ‘’
Magnus smirked, shaking his head slightly at Gawain’s untroubled attitude. ‘’ I did not ask you to love me ‘’
‘’ Nah, you didn’t, I just thought that I had been original for too long, and decided to fall for the same guy half of this frigging planet wants ‘’
This time he couldn’t but laugh, taking Gawain’s cigarette from his lips. ‘’ This will kill you ‘’ he said, smoking it himself.
‘’ And now the bastard who stole my heart steals my bloody cigarette... ‘’ he let out, rolling his eyes while grinning.
‘’ Baka ‘’ Magnus began, blowing a grey cloud of smoke on Gawain’s face.
But then he saw her through the window, among the shadows of the trees, perched on the mansion’s iron gates as if she were a bird. The masked woman that had been watching them earlier.
‘’ What is it? ‘’ asked Gawain, looking over his shoulder towards the window. There was nothing out there, nothing except the shadows of the trees turned ghostly because of the full moon.
‘’ I already told you that you shouldn’t worry so much, Gawain ‘’ Magnus said, smiling faintly before reaching for his trousers.
‘’ Then why are you leaving? ‘’ he replied stubbornly, lifting his head from the pillow.
‘’ Because I want to take a walk. Don’t follow me, I’ll be back soon ‘’ he added, leaving no place for further discussions.
‘’ The mermaid leaves me, what shall I do? ‘’ he lamented theatrically.
‘’ Sleep ‘’
‘’ Nice suggestion... ‘’ Gawain began, grumbling, ‘’ Who wants to sleep when we could be doing better things? damn walking urge... ‘’
Magnus chuckled, leaving the room and heading outside.
VIII
The air was wet against his skin. Spring always did that to the air, turning it humid, drenching everything and everyone with dewdrops. At least the moon was shinning bright, giving the garden a spectral look that reminded him of his home.
‘’ For a weirdo, you certainly are stubborn ‘’ Magnus said when reaching the gates, looking at the masked woman covered by white. ‘’ So, what do you want, fan girl? ‘’
She stayed still for some seconds, the wind playing with her hood, and then she finally repeated. ‘’ What do you want? ‘’
Magnus smiled faintly, leaning against a tree trunk. He was used to dealing with fans, he had always done so, instead of trusting his safety to some bodyguard. He knew that he could convince anyone of doing anything, that a mere smile from his lips could get him the world if he wanted it. No one would ever harm him, they would rather killed themselves than harming him. ‘’ I want to know what you want ‘’
‘’ I want you to help me find Justice ‘’ she answered, tilting her masked face. Even when she was dressed in white, her mask was, oddly enough, grey with red rivulets painted under the left eye.
He frowned, puzzled. This wasn’t the first time a fan had trespass one of the places they were staying at, nor the first time the fan herself had been a freak.
The world was full of worms, and they tended to do anything to catch attention
‘’ What are you talking about? Justice? ‘’ Magnus chuckled, ‘’ There is no Justice in this world, lass, get used to that... I would not exist if Justice did ‘’
I wouldn’t be alone. Perfect, in a world of imperfections
The woman tilted her head once again. She was like a bird indeed, Magnus thought, moving like one, her cloak batting around her like wings. Then, she leaped into the garden, falling on her feet with the grace of a ballet dancer, and walked towards him, her hand closing around his arm. But she wasn’t trying to harm him, he could somehow... tell... that. She just didn’t want him to leave yet.
‘’ Who are you? ‘’ he asked, his fingers reaching for her mask. She let go of him, taking her hands to her face to make sure that the mask was still in place, and then looked at him once again, repeating his words. ‘’ Who are you? ‘’
He smirked. ‘’ So this is the game... you will answer my questions only after I had answered them myself... ‘’ The woman nodded excitedly, a white curl escaping the confinements of her hood. So she was an albino... maybe she was ashamed of her looks, that was why she used the mask...
‘’ I am Magnus Iasant, leader of the Fallen Angels, pleased to meet you... ‘’ he said, bowing theatrically at her.
‘’ Silver Saint Columba Echo, Sanctuary’s Peace ‘’ she said, her little voice filling with pride when she returned the bow.
‘’ A Saint? ‘’ he chuckled. So she was also a fan of them. The Saints. The rumours about the tournament Mitsumasa Kido was planning had been around for a while; and the Fallen Angels had even been hired to compose some songs to promote the event. Yet still he hadn’t known people would start fanclubs about them so soon, not when it seemed the tournament was going to be cancelled due to the old man’s disease. ‘’ Then I guess that makes us enemies, doesn’t it? ‘’
‘’ Doesn’t it? ‘’
‘’ A Fallen Angel is a demon... and Saints are the ones that deny demons... we are opposites, Echo ‘’
‘’ It does not make us enemies, because you are a Gold Saint whose duty is to protect Sanctuary when it is in risk ‘’
‘’ You are funny, Echo ‘’ he mused, running his fingers through his aquamarine hair. ‘’ A Gold Saint? I had no idea those existed... I thought all the saints were called Bronze Saints... ‘’ he shook his head, standing straight. ‘’ You are pretty messed-up, Echo, but still you managed to entertain me for some minutes. Be a nice girl and leave, you are making my band nervous, and I won’t be able to stop them from calling for security next time you decide to pop around ‘’
She shook her head, her fingers lacing together nervously, yet unable to utter a word. Finally, she threw herself at his feet, her arms closing around his legs.
‘’ You are not the first one that does something like this, and I really wished you hadn’t ‘’ he said, kneeling by her side, ‘’ so, what is it? They will worry if I don’t return soon ‘’
‘’ What is it...? ‘’ she whispered, her back shaking. Puzzled, he lifted her chin, just to see tears sliding under the edge of her mask.
‘’ I don’t know ‘’ he finally answered, shaking his head slightly, ‘’ You speak of Justice and Saints, but that means nothing to me ‘’
‘’ They will kill me if you don’t help me... I am not strong enough to keep them at bay, they are growing closer, and I still don’t know where to find Justice... I know I won’t be able to find her unless you help me... they fear you, they stopped chasing me when they sensed your cosmo through your song... please... help me ‘’ she begged, closing her hands over his and pressing them over her beating heart.
The poor girl was mad. Psychotic for sure. An over-enthusiastic fan that probably ended up believing her fantasies. Another worm the world had to offer. ‘’ Echo, I don’t know what you are talking about, but I do know that my songs can’t protect anyone... ‘’ He broke free from her hold, standing up and walking towards the mansion. ‘’ They are only music ‘’
IX
She remained still, crying until she had no tears left to shed. Why had he refused to help her? Why had he lied? Gold Saints didn’t lie, they couldn’t, not unless they were corrupted. And she was certain he wasn’t. She had felt the sleeping cosmo within him, she had felt his power in each word he told her.
Yet he had still ignored her. Treated her like a madwoman.
If only the price to pay for her cloth hadn’t been so harsh... if only she were still able to speak her will, instead of repeating what others said until someone asked the right questions, and gave her an answer.
But she couldn’t. She had given her voice in order to have her Cloth; that had been her test. And she had succeeded brilliantly, the Columba Silver Cloth embracing her as if it had always been a part of her. Turning her into the messenger of Peace, able only to repeat her Goddess’ messages, to spread her words.
‘’ We said that... ‘’
‘’... we would find you ‘’
Echo stood up suddenly, looking at her surroundings. Nothing, no one... yet she had heard them, their voices whispering in her ear...
‘’ And you would... ‘’
‘’ ... die ‘’
She leaped in time to avoid the set of claws dashing at her from the top of the tree she had been kneeling under, her persecutors’ nails sinking in the humid ground.
‘’ Fast... ‘’ began Cain, the Canis Mayor Saint, brushing the leaves away from his light brown hair.
‘’... Yet not fast enough ‘’added Abel, the Canis Minor Saint, his twin. The Kyoko’s dogs.
Echo backed up, flinching when her back hit a tree.
Forgive me, master, I have failed, she thought, the image of the Reticulum Saint appearing in her mind’s eye, his kind purple eyes glittering mischievously under rebellious purple bangs.
‘’ The little dove... ‘’
‘’ ... will fly no more ‘’
She shifted into a defensive position, shaking her head at their words. She knew she was no threat to them, even when her cosmo was stronger. That had also been required to win her Cloth, to turn in the strongest Silver Saint. To develop her cosmo so it would make her faster and able to withstand psychic attacks. But she had no offensive techniques, no defensive ones. The Columba Saint was the only Saint of Sanctuary that was required not to fight. Ever, for Peace should never bring Death with her.
‘’ Because we will... ‘’ began Cain, flaring his orange cosmo.
‘’ ... break your wings ‘’ finished Abel, mimicking his brother’s initiative.
Their cosmos entwined and they voices turned one as they screamed.
‘’ Hounds from Hell! ‘’
X
Magnus heard the noises when he reached the mansion’s door, turning around to see what was going on. It was then when the ground under him began to tremble; dogs of light sprouting from the depths of the earth, turning everything they touched into ashes. Everything but him.
He knew he should feel awe. He knew he should feel afraid. But somehow, he could feel none of that, only... recognition. A sense of deja vu, of knowledge of what was going on. With detachment, he stretched his hand towards one of the light hounds, and wasn’t surprised when it turned into nothing but sparks when brushing his skin, leaving it unmarred even when a single touch of their paws was destroying everything around him.
‘’ This has to do... with Cosmo... ‘’ he whispered, savouring the word even when he still wasn’t sure of the meaning.
But he didn’t have much time to ponder on his feelings of remembrance, as the screams coming from the mansion brought him back to reality.
The huge house was falling apart, its foundations weakened by the tremors and it walls shattered by the dogs of light.
‘’ What the bloody hell is going on? ‘’ screamed Leanan, opening the door and staring at him for a second, ‘’ Magnus, don’t stare like a fool, the mansion is going down ‘’ she growled, pushing him away from the house, Ethan hurrying behind them with an unconscious Deirdre in his arms.
Then they heard the sound of glass shattering, Gawain jumping through the room’s window, his golden skin grazed by the window’s edges.
‘’ Magnus... ‘’ he managed to whisper when seeing them standing near by, limping to their side. ‘’ I thought you were dead! ‘’ he cried out, anger and relief shinning in his eyes.
‘’ I... ‘’ Magnus began, but Surya’s screams cut him off. He was perched to one of the trees next to the first floor, stretching his hand towards one of the windows, where Llewellyn was helping one of the girls to reach his brother.
It was then when the mansion collapsed.
The sound of the walls finally giving in was deafening, Gawain pushing Magnus to the floor to protect him from the falling debris, while Ethan placed himself before Leanan and Deirdre.
Then the world seemed to stay still for some endless seconds, silence reigning around them. Until Surya’s cries shattered it. He had already descended the tree and stood by the remains of the mansion, dust covering his dark hair and golden skin.
Llewellyn and the girls hadn’t made it.
‘’ God, what happened? ‘’ sobbed Ethan, resting his forehead against Deirdre’s bloodied hair. ‘’ Magnus... Leanan... Gawain... ‘’ he said, searching for answers, but Magnus’ eyes were lost in the shimmering beams that sprouted from the ground from time to time, while Leanan was in shock, her small frame shaking.
‘’ I don’t know, Ethan... I don’t know ‘’ said Gawain, placing his hand over his shoulder. ‘’ Is she...? ‘’
‘’ No! I mean, no, when the stairs collapsed, a chunk of marble hit her head and knocked her down. She’s just unconscious ‘’ he added, resting his hand over her beating heart. Gawain nodded, standing up to walk to Surya’s side.
‘’ We have to get out of here, the ground is unstable ‘’ he said, refusing to look at the remains of the mansion.
‘’ We have to search for him, he’s probably down there, we must help him! ‘’ cried Surya, closing his hand around his arm. ‘’ Llewellyn was always stronger than he looked, he probably took the hit... ‘’
‘’ He is dead ‘’ Surya’s eyes met Magnus’, his dark skin going pale at the certainty of his words. ‘’ All of them are ‘’
‘’ That’s a lie! A lie! Gawain, tell him that! You will help me, won’t you? ‘’ he pleaded, clutching the red-head’s shoulders. ‘’ We’ll remove the debris and free him... ‘’
‘’ Surya... ‘’ whispered Gawain, pain strangling his heart at the knowledge that Magnus was probably right. ‘’ This place is not safe... ‘’ he repeated, but a new wave of tremors left no room for compassion. He grabbed Surya by the wrist and pulled him where the others were, only to find that Magnus was already walking to the gates.
XI
Echo stared at her assassins, knowing how slim where her chances of winning. Her cosmo, shinning around her like a white mist, had already tried to subdue theirs, to whisper the truth of her mission into them, but all had failed. It was as if no soul shone under the cosmos of the twins, as if they were nothing but machines.
They had even gone far enough as to unleash their cosmos near innocents. And innocent blood had been the consequence, she could feel it in her veins, the burning anger of the dead mixing with the broken earth.
‘’ Don’t ... ‘’
‘’ ...resist ‘’ They said, knowing no one would stop them.
She could not win.
‘’ Hounds of Hell! ‘’
Echo tried to dodge, but all was in vain, the dogs of light hitting her body fully, sending her flying against a tree, her cloak turned into nothing but ashes. She panted, resting her back against the tree to stand up. She took her hand to her stomach, feeling the smooth surface of her Cloth. Columba had protected her.
‘’ Who the hell are you? What is going on?! ‘’ demanded a strong, slightly hysterical voice. She looked over her shoulder to the red-head, her heart missing a beat when seeing the singer by his side.
‘’ What is going on? ‘’ she repeated brokenly, stretching her hand towards Magnus, glad that he had finally decide to help her.
But he didn’t take it. He stood still, an effigy of calmness amidst the havoc the twins were causing. A ghost, with deep blue eyes fixed nowhere.
XII
Gawain didn’t know what to do. He knew what he wanted, to close his eyes and realise it was all a dream when opening them again, the morning’s radio show being his only worry. But he knew that was not so. He knew that if he closed his eyes, a beam of light could appear from nowhere and cut him down like they were cutting the trees, like they had shattered the mansion and taken Llewellyn with them.
‘’ Magnus, let’s get out of here... ‘’ he pleaded, closing his hand around the singer’s arm. But he remained still, ignoring his words, the despair in them. Despair that increased when the rest of the band reached them, their lost, soulless eyes seeking in him an answer, a solution.
How could they demand one from him? How dare they? How, when he was as lost as they were?
Earthquakes he didn’t know how to deal with. Death he didn’t know how to deal with. Beams that sprouted from the ground he definitely didn’t know how to deal with.
He was, after all, only human.
‘’ Magnus...? ‘’
‘’ Take them out of here, Gawain. All of them ‘’ he finally answered, his blue eyes fixed on the shadows between the dust and fallen trees.
‘’ What the bloody hell are you saying? We won’t leave without you ‘’ he let out stubbornly, shivers going down his spine when two dark-clad men appeared from among the shadows, an eerie glow flowing over their bodies.
‘’ Gawain... ‘’ began Magnus, just to be interrupted by the twins’ high-pitched shriek.
‘’ Hounds of hell!!! ‘’
Echo could remember the day her master was taken away from her. She could remember the twins’ laughter, the kyoko’s masked face. She could remember the way her master had stood before her when they attacked her, taking the hit when he could have escape instead. She could also remember his limp body in her arms, his usually cheerful voice urging her to run.
And she had. He had managed to get back on his feet somehow, and called for his cosmo, his voice reaching her ears as she ran away from them, knowing his fate was sealed. Then the kyoko’s golden aura had silenced his voice and erased his cosmo. And he was gone, his advice leaving a print on her mind. To run, no matter what, until reaching Justice.
But he hadn’t run, hadn’t he? When he should have run, he had stayed and shielded her from death, dying in her place.
He wouldn’t blame her for doing the same.
The blow found home on her stomach, shattering her Cloth in a million pieces, tearing her body apart. Just as if she were nothing but a rag doll. Just like her master.
But her cries of pain were not alone. She could hear others, as desperate as her own, letting their last breaths through those fearful shrieks.
XIII
Echo opened her eyes when feeling something wet against her cheek, tickling her slightly. Puzzled, she took her hand to her face, surprised when feeling the soft, warm surface of her own skin. Slowly, she tried to feel more, but was stopped by the uneven edges of her mask. She smirked. Broken, but not exposed. An honourable death for a female saint.
Because dying she was. She could tell by the lack of pain and the numbness of her body. Peace would never reach Justice.
‘’ Oh, God, no, this can’t be, this can’t be... ‘’
Echo frowned when hearing that voice, finding the strength to stand up, her legs trembling by the effort. Her stomach rebelled when drinking into the surroundings, the visions of the twisted bodies making her gag. She took a deep breath, trying to focus, and looked around her once again.
Four bodies sprawled on the grass, dying it red. Broken beyond salvation. The red-head boy kneeling by one of them, caressing the lifeless face of a dark-haired woman with his right hand, his left arm hanging limp at his side, drenched in blood.
And standing among them, unharmed, was Magnus.
She had failed and succeeded. She had given her life to protect Magnus and the innocents around him. They had perished, but he had lived, not because of her sacrifice, but because the twins’ power was not enough to harm him.
She was dying in vain.
‘’ Still alive... ‘’
‘’ ... little dove? ‘’
‘’ The dove... ‘’ The twin hounds looked at her, puzzled, and even Magnus’ eyes flickered to life from their shock when she started speaking her words instead of theirs, ‘’ ... is dead. You are facing Echo, now. Reticulum Satoshi’s trainee ‘’
‘’ Everyone is dead... you are dead... ‘’ said Magnus coldly, his maddened eyes fixed on Deirdre’s and Ethan’s corpses, ‘’ Worms die... but I don’t ‘’ he chuckled, madness shimmering in his blue eyes, ‘’ I frigging don’t! Because I am perfect! Go, Echo, nothing they do can harm me! ‘’ he walked in front of her, spreading his arms wide, ‘’ Nothing you do will fucking harm me, you bloody bastards! ‘’ Bent head, maddened laughter. Gone from them completely, into a place where he was a God and people was nothing. Life was nothing. ‘’ Your stupid hounds can destroy worms, but you can’t touch me... you can’t... Oh, God... ‘’ he let out, closing his eyes tightly. Echo thought he would collapse, his soul gone into a world of his own, but slowly, almost dream-like, he smirked, eyes glittering when resting on the two saints ‘’ Because I am bloody perfect ‘’
XIV
‘’ Magnus, stop... ‘’ Gawain started, almost crawling towards the singer, his right hand closing over his shoulder tightly. He couldn’t feel his left arm at all, he didn’t even want to see it. ‘’ They will kill you, please... ‘’
‘’ Is that you, Gawain? ‘’ he whispered, meeting his eyes, ‘’ Look... ‘’ Magnus added, beaming, ‘’ The worms killed the worms. But nothing happened to me. Because I am perfect. Where’s Leanan? I want her to know... ‘’
Gawain frowned, stroking the singer’s cheek with trembling fingers, ‘’ Lea is outside, waiting for us ‘’ he muttered, a veil of tears clouding his green eyes.
‘’ Oh... ‘’ Magnus frowned, tilting his head slightly, ‘’ Why are you so pale? ‘’
‘’ Nothing ‘’ the red-head answered, smiling, ‘’ Nothing at all... let’s go, ok? ‘’ he added, staring over Magnus’ shoulder to the dark warriors, who seemed to fear the lithe singer.
‘’ We’ll tell Leanan? And we should also tell Deirdre and Ethan too... you know, the worms looked just like them ‘’
‘’ Did they? ‘’ he asked bitterly, pulling Magnus towards the mansion with the last strengths he had left, repressing a high-pitched whimper when his eyes flew over the lovers’ twisted bodies.
‘’ Leave... nothing will happen to him. But you’ll die if you stay ‘’
‘’ I can’t leave him ‘’ he whispered to the dying woman, tightening his hold around Magnus’ arms.
‘’ Leave me? Baka, you love me, you can’t leave me ‘’ teased the singer, shaking his head slightly. ‘’ No one can ‘’
‘’ Leave! ‘’ she repeated, closing her hand around his collar and pushing him behind them. ‘’ Before it’s too late... you have to run, run and never stop! Ever!! ‘’
‘’ I... ‘’ Gawain said, watching the twins growing closer, an eerie glow burning around them. He should run, the woman was right about that. But he wouldn’t. Not while Magnus still lived. He would never leave him.
‘’ Hounds of Hell!!! ‘’ they screamed, Gawain closing his eyes, expecting the blow that would end his life and let him join his friends in heaven.
‘’ This is for Satoshi, you bastards... ‘’ Echo cried out, flaring her own cosmo, its power entwining with one she knew by heart, warm, noble and loving... ‘’ Lumini Dictis!!! ‘’
Athena... forgive me
XV
The world shifted around Magnus once again, taking shape inside his mind. Llewellyn and Surya were gone, Deirdre and Ethan were gone.
Leanan was gone.
And only because they were worms. Worms perished. Even when Echo had tried to protect them, they had died anyway.
Because she wasn’t strong enough.
Yet nothing had happened to him. Nothing ever did. Because...
I am perfect
No.
Would they have lived if he had helped them somehow? If he had... tried to protect them?
But why should I? I am perfect
They would have lived. All of them. Laughing, teasing him, bringing to life the music that could make the angels weep and the demons dance.
But Gawain lived, he was certain he could hear his voice, calling out to him. Echo also lived, but it was different.
She was dying, there was nothing he could do for her. But he could try. To protect her, to protect Gawain the same way he had always watched over him.
But I am perfect... they are not
They are worms
And worms perish
‘’ No!!! ‘’ he cried out, focussing his eyes on his surroundings. The garden was nothing but piled up debris, turned into a world of lights and shimmers thanks to the collision between Echo’s and the Dogs’ cosmos. The perfect scenario for her song, a long shriek that stretched towards nowhere.
Worms perish
‘’ Echo! ‘’ Magnus let out, kneeling by the fallen figure of the woman, gathering her in his arms. The lights were gone now, and only her dying body and the two shadows remained. But they hadn’t escaped from her fury unharmed. The youngest dog had also fallen, his brother cradling his body the same way he was holding Echo. Both of them hoping they would live.
Hoping in vain.
‘’ Why...? ‘’
A smiled curved her bloodied lips, as her hand reached for her mask. Bright red eyes met his, framed by thin white eyebrows. A dove, beautiful and delicate, too pure for colours to stain her.
‘’ Satoshi said.... that it was a sin to die before loving someone... will you let me love you? He loved once.... and I want to go where he is...‘’
Magnus frowned, his fingers tracing the curve of her cheek. Nodding slightly, he brought his face close to hers and kissed her softly, ignoring the taste of blood in that kiss.
‘’ Thank you... ‘’ Echo muttered, closing her eyes and muttering a woman’s name before taking her last breath.
Athena.
XVI
She walked towards the garden, her steps light and soundless in the night. The call of one of her kin had brought her there, his symbol shimmering in the dark pools of her temple.
The price of his awakening had already been paid, innocent blood staining him beyond salvation.
He would remember, and she would be there for him.
After all, he had always been hers.
She sat on the grass, fixing her saffron tunic around her. Her eyes met lost green ones, pain oozing from them, but she ignored them. He was not important to her. The one with the blue eyes was, eyes that recognised the ancient bond that joined them, through life and death. Forever.
‘’ A child... a frigging child... what are you? What are you doing here? ‘’ started the red-head, his voice as mad as his eyes were lost. She smiled at him, knowing how he was feeling. A mortal, forced to see the work of the gods.
‘’ Alpheia... ‘’ A hiss from the mourning hound. He could see what she truly was, the goddess behind the child.
‘’ I have no business with you, Canis Maior ‘’ she said, her voice sounding high-pitched and sweet compared to the saint’s, yet he froze in his place when she addressed him, fear growing in his eyes.
‘’ You are... like them... ‘’ cried Gawain, taking his hands to his head, madness gripping him slowly. Artemis sighed sadly, wishing she could do something for him. But he was gone from her, and into another’s care.
‘’ I am... ‘’
‘’ Perfect ‘’
She smiled when the one that had called for her spoke, his voice as beautiful as she remembered it to be.
‘’ You are beyond... them.... ‘’ Magnus went on, trying to grasp the memories that kept running in and out of his mind. ‘’ You are like me... No. You are beyond me too ‘’
‘’ That I am ‘’
‘’ So that means... ‘’ he smirked, looking into the dead eyes of the white-haired woman, ‘’ that I am not perfect after all, aren’t I? ‘’
‘’ Don’t you know who you are already? ‘’ she asked, amused.
‘’ Not really.... I thought I did... but I was wrong. Will you tell me who I am? ‘’
‘’ I could... but that depends on you. Fate has three doors open for you tonight... One... ‘’ she began, pointing at Gawain, ‘’ You already know. There are no surprises for you there, no changes. Only a life surrounded by beings you despise and that adore you in return. The other one is hers ‘’ she went on, pointing to Echo. ‘’ Her path finished here, there’s no room for you in it. The third one... ‘’
‘’ Is you ‘’
She smiled. ‘’ The third one is you. To sacrifice the life you’ve lived till now and think it meaningless so you can embrace another life, older, more ancient, and yet much more real than the one you’ve led. You’ll know what happened tonight, why it happened, and what you could and could not have done. You’ll know why she had to die tonight, and why they had to kill her. You’ll know why you couldn’t intervene... and why I didn’t stop them. You’ll know all that and more... but Magnus must die first, and all that he was, all that he cared about ‘’ she went on, smiling at Gawain once again ‘’... must die with him ‘’
XVII
Magnus gasped at the child’s words, leaving her cold aquamarine gaze to look at Gawain, his friend bleeding copiously while staring at the horror around him with a maddened shimmer in his eyes.
‘’ Gawain... ‘’ he whispered, leaving Echo’s body gently on the floor. With cautious steps, he walked to his side, placing his hand over her shoulder. The red-head started, yet his eyes soon fixed over them, recognition erasing the madness from them.
‘’ Magnus... oh, god, what is going on? What happened? Everyone... ‘’ The singer brought him into his arms, relieved when Gawain allowed him to do so, hiding his face against his chest.
‘’ Will you help him if I follow you? ‘’ he asked the child. But all she did was fix her tunic and play with a lock of her hair, her eyes reading into his.
‘’ Will you?! ‘’ he pleaded, watching how his hands began to dye red because of Gawain’s blood. ‘’ He is... ‘’ Magnus whispered, stroking the red locks with a softness he hadn’t known he was able to, ‘’ ... the best this world has to offer ‘’
‘’ I... ‘’ she started, but the voice of the Hound stopped her, as he left his brother’s side and dashed towards Magnus and Gawain, his body glowing with Cosmo.
‘’ They won’t live while Abel dies, they won’t!!! ‘’ Cain growled, digging his hands into the earth and letting his cosmo spread towards the two men, deadly energy destroying the ground.
Even when all he had seen was destruction, this time Gawain was able to see the dogs made of light, running towards them. He could see them, almost as if they were moving in slow motion. And in that same slow motion, he grabbed Magnus’ elbow and pushed him behind him, taking the blow for him.
Because he could not live without his soul, so he would die for it.
‘’ ... ba... baka ‘’ Magnus muttered, keeping Gawain’s broken body tightly against him.
‘’ I love it... when you... insult me in languages... I had no idea you could speak.... mermaid ‘’ he said weakly, lifting his hand to stroke his cheek, leaving crimson marks over the pale skin.
‘’ What will it take to kill you?! ‘’ Cain let out, his voice sounding hysterical. ‘’ It is you the one that is protecting him, isn’t it Huntress?! ‘’ he added, turning to address the little girl.
‘’ He is stronger than you ‘’ she whispered, smiling sweetly, ‘’ Your power is weaker than a breeze to him ‘’
‘’ Liar!! ‘’ he screamed, flaring his cosmo.
‘’ You caused enough harm ‘’ Magnus whispered, glaring at him, ‘’ You won’t touch her ‘’
Cain stared at him, then laughed, tilting his head backwards when doing so. ‘’ Who are you to stop me? Nothing but a freak! ‘’
A worm
But worms die
I am... above you
Once there was a pool, clear and perfect, which reflected an even more perfect creature still. But the reflection loved the creature so much, that one day, it decided to stretch its arms towards it and make it its own. The creature, also in love with the reflection, decided to return the embrace. Perfection has no place in the world, and both reflection and creature died in their embrace. But when their lips brushed each other, for an instant... a second... they were one. And they were...
‘’ Perfect ‘’ he whispered, standing up slowly not to hurt Gawain. ‘’ I am perfect... and you are nothing but a worm ‘’ He had played the reflection for too long, and now the little black-haired child brought with her the real being. Even if the world wouldn’t take him, he would be himself.
The child smiled, walking to Magnus’ side and tugging at his sleeve with her small hands. He looked at her and returned the smile, picking her up in his arms. She rested her head on his shoulder, her arms circling his neck.
‘’ Pride will be your path from now on, my dearest Narcissus ‘’
He sighed, hiding his face against the dark waves of her hair, images, names and feelings flooding his soul, and with a soft murmur he let out the first word his mind recognised.
‘’ Artemis... ‘’
‘’ Damn bitch! ‘’
Narcissus gazed at the maddened Saint. A weakling with no real power, already as dead as his brother. A fool, threatening those that were above him. Screaming to the heavens.
Daring a God had consequences. They could always send their angels to avenge them.
‘’ Worm ‘’ he said coldly from between the midnight strands, allowing a sea of crimson light to emanate from his body, power that had been sleeping for centuries flaring into life.
The Saint stopped on his tracks, taken aback by his display of Cosmo.
‘’ Oh, don’t fear me, for I will not stain my hands with your blood. Fear yourself, Canis Maior Cain, and what you have done. The past is always the worst enemy ‘’
Slowly, almost lazily, Narcissus stretched his right arm towards him, holding the child with his left one. ‘’ Meet your enemies, Cain.... Vengeful Spirit ‘’ His voice went sweet and mesmerising when saying those last two words, his Cosmo spreading over the mansion’s grounds, dancing around the broken bodies sprawled on the humid grass. With an eerie glow, the pained souls rose from their cages, glowing ghosts that circled the Saint, whispering words in his ear, mocking him.
Cain cried out, trying to escape, but whenever he turned, an eerie figure would be there to stop him, smiling softly at him, until they surrounded him in a perfect circle.
For an instant, they remained still, empty eyes drinking into him. But then Echo stepped forward, her white hair shimmering in the darkness, and placed her small, delicate hand against Cain’s chest.
‘’ This is for Satoshi ‘’ she whispered, her translucent hand going through Cain’s chest. He stared at her, his skin pale with fear, and then shuddered, collapsing on his knees to later fall on the ground, his soul gone from his body.
Worms die
XVIII
Narcissus left Artemis gently on the floor and knelt before Echo, closing her eyes. ‘’ You were meant to die... for me. All of them were. That was the price... because I am marked... ‘’ he took the broken mask from her hand, caressing the limp fingers lightly, ‘’ Gods dislike pride, and I am proud, so proud ‘’ he played with the mask, giving Artemis a side-long glance, ‘’ Melaenis cursed me for that pride... but you will take me with you, won’t you Alpheia? That curse brought this... so let me forget who I was... who I am... and let me turn into one of your kin. As long as I can follow you, my pride will be mellowed by your presence ‘’. The child beamed, about to nod, but he stopped her, placing the broken mask over his face, the grey metal covering the glimmer of his eyes. ‘’ Yet if the day comes when Melaenis is before me, yours or not, I will rise against her, Alpheia. I will forget about myself, but I will not forget about those that fell tonight ‘’
‘’ Each time you awake, you ask the same, Narcissus... ‘’ Artemis said, smiling impishly, ‘’ Gods hate pride, because it’s foolish of a mortal to think he is beyond the Gods. But I love revenge, and revenge you shall have... and till that day, you’ll be mine ‘’
‘’ But there is something I have to do first ‘’
‘’ There is. But it would be better if you didn’t do it. I can see things like that ‘’ The girl said self-assured, ‘’ But you will do it anyway, no matter what I say ‘’
Narcissus nodded, walking to the dying Gawain, a half-smile curving his blood-dyed lips.
‘’ I can’t... leave you.... but you can leave... me... I always knew... I was too little... so little... to be with someone... like you... ‘’ he managed to say, his smile softening when Narcissus closed his hand around his, ‘’ At least my dream is... done... I spent my life... with you... ‘’
‘’ Baka... ‘’ Narcissus said, resting his free hand over Gawain’s chest, his cosmo flowing from his fingers into the red-head’s broken body, healing his wounds.
Gawain’s expression changed from one of pain, to one of anger, his strengthened hands closing around Narcissus’ wrist. ‘’ Don’t do that, don’t take that away from me. You’ll leave, and I can’t live without you ‘’ he let out hoarsely, trying to push him away. But he was just a man, and Narcissus was almost a God.
‘’ You are the best that this world has to offer, you can’t die because of me ‘’ Narcissus said matter-of-factly, forcing his cosmo into the red-head’s body.
‘’ Then stay... ‘’ he pleaded, frowning at the black-haired child, ‘’ Stay with me... I... I love you ‘’
Narcissus smiled behind his mask. ‘’ You loved Magnus... but he is dead. You don’t want me ‘’
‘’ I know what I want! ‘’ Gawain grunted, trying to stand on his feet. ‘’ I want everything to be like it used to be. You, the guys, Leanan and me. Us. I want that, and if I can’t have them, I will have you. I can’t live... ‘’ he stared at the ground, already knowing he was defeated, ‘’ I can’t live without the one I love... ‘’
Narcissus placed his hand over his shoulder, leaning closer to whisper in his ear. ‘’ Then live knowing that the one you love loved you back, he loved you till the moment he had to disappear to allow the one that he truly is to shine. Live, knowing that he stopped being for you, knowing that I would be able to heal you when he couldn’t. Live for him, if you can’t live without him ‘’ Narcissus’ lips brushed Gawain’s skin when he moved away, silky tresses caressing his cheek, but the red-head wasn’t able to reach for the man that was slipping away from him. Taking, but never giving.
Just like a ghost.
‘’ Magnus! ‘’ he finally cried out, his legs feeling heavy and numb as he walked towards him.
‘’ Magnus is dead, can’t you see that? And you are not mine, so you can’t come with us. He was never yours, he can’t stay with you either‘’ the black-haired girl said, her little fingers laced with Narcissus’. ‘’ You should have died tonight, but you will live, even when I wish you wouldn’t. Because Gawain died with Magnus. Yet... ‘’ she frowned, her eyes turning into slits, ‘’ I can’t see who you are ‘’ she shrugged. ‘’ I guess that is something you will have to learn for yourself. Can we go home now? ‘’ the child asked, returning her attention to the masked man by her side.
‘’ We can ‘’ he said, his voice sounding more magical than ever.
Artemis smiled, leading Narcissus through the garden and away from Gawain, releasing the grip she kept around her cosmo, white flames dancing around them, collapsing against them, to be eaten by pure darkness.
‘’ This will be your life from now on ‘’ he heard her said amidst the darkness, her childish voice sounding deeper, ancient, echoes of an old woman mixing with it, next to the sensuous whispers of a woman.
And the darkness resided, revealing the deep greens and dark blues of huge trees, surrounded by plants and bushes of every kind.
‘’ Welcome to Ortygia! ‘’ Artemis beamed, ‘’ The rest are waiting for us ‘’ she cheered, releasing his hand to run before him, then stopping when he wouldn’t follow her, her hair dancing around her at the sudden movement.
‘’ What is it? ‘’ she asked, tilting her head in a way that reminded him of a bird.
A dove, pure and white.
‘’ Nothing ‘’ he said, shaking his head. ‘’ It’s just that everything here... is... perfect ‘’
Finally...
I am not... alone...
SE FINNI
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Derre's blah blah: Another guardian done, seven to go ^_^y This fic goes to Millerna, who insisted so much on the romantic interests of the guardians that managed to convince me to make Narci go bi. As usual, c & c, screams and flames of every kind are welcomed!
Other thingies:
Next Guardian to be victimized: Thyestes