The Lost

The Lost Chapter 18: Once Lost, Now Found

The battle that began at dawn, ended by the midday sun. So complete was the turning of the tide against the Elders, many if not all were caught unawares. Kai and Raoul moved with surgical precision, and the aerial assault by Iason and Raimen solidified the battle in their favor. And now, as the natives were slowly being reunited with the their families. Funeral pyres were being prepared for those who did not survive the many scrimmages. The mass services would commence at sunset, and it would be a solemn event, as there were many. But few in comparison to the genocide they were all facing. The Royal Family was invited to attend the usually private event, as those who died defending the ruins and those lost attacking the city would now be mourned en mass.

For Yui, it was a painful reminder of the loss of innocence, as many children lost their father's or mothers. He was true in his mission to keep them safe within the ruins, and was hailed as a hero among the women who witnessed his actions when they were surrounded by Elders. Yui held his shield above them and with the combined power the Queens, the Elders and the springs was able to defend them until the Lords converged upon the scene, to relieve him. He was truly exhausted, and had collapsed after his tearful reunion with Raoul.

The Sentinel at Arms scooped the young man and was quickly ushered below to the springs, where Riki took him in his arms and gently dipped him in the warm waters. As Riki's body began to glow in his transformation, Yui stirred and slowly opened his eyes to the gasps and cheers of everyone who witnessed the Tempest's gifts. Raoul was so worried, he nearly fell into the springs himself. Riki smiled as he extended his hand to him, and told him to enter the water.

Raoul took Yui into his embrace, and kissed him tenderly. He watched as the blush on his cheeks returned and his lips formed a smile. Raoul was near tears, and looked up at Riki. “Thank you my Lord.” Raoul whispered at Riki who nodded and slowly walked out of the springs. The natives bowed as they noticed the cuts and scrapes on his body had faded.

“Let's give them some privacy.” Riki spoke to everyone who had squeezed into the room. “We should all reach out and reunite with our loved ones. There were many casualties today, and I grieve the loss of your loved ones. I hope you find comfort, in the knowledge that a society enslaved by evil has been removed off the surface of Yasuo. I believe that this was a good day to die in the battle for freedom.”

Everyone agreed, as they slowly left the temple. Iason and Riki looked back to find Raoul slowly removing his clothes. This brought a smile to Iason's face to see his old friend so happy. Riki was soaked, however his tempest wind took care of that as they left the temple.

“There's going to be a long line for these hot springs.” Riki spoke, as the cool air gave him a chill. “I can't wait to take a long soak after those two love birds are done.”

“Yes, there will be a great need for comfort, and reunions.” Iason spoke.

As the temple became quiet, the gentle moans of Raoul and Yui could be heard. The two had given away to tears at first, as their reunion was a long time coming. Raoul caressed every inch of his lover, remembering the state of Yui's body when he found him. His hands trembled, and he could hardly control his emotions.

“Please...please Raoul, don't cry...I am here, we are here..and that is all that matters.” Yui whispered, as Raoul covered his face with kisses. Raoul held him gently in the water, and could feel the mineral's effects on his battered and bruised body.

“I have longed to hold you in my arms as I do now Yui...I am now complete. You had been restored to me, and I never even knew it.” Raoul caressed his cheek.

Yui reached up and gently kissed Raoul once again. His body trembled, and his heart felt as if it would burst with joy. “I never thought...I would ever see you again my love...” Yui whispered, “You were the last thought in my mind, and now you are here with me...I am so very happy.”

The lovers began to kiss and as the passion grew, Raoul turned Yui around and held him against his body. He raised his chin, and drank from his lips, as he slowly penetrated. The warm water worked as a wonderful lubricant, as they merged in their sensual dance of love. Yui gasped as the eager Raoul could not hold back, and needed to feel Yui's touch, and the embrace of his body's inner sanctum.

“I love you Yui...I have loved you for thousands of years, and thank all that is sacred for the chance to see you once again. When I awoke, I was unable to deal with your death.” Raoul paused as he held Yui against his body, “But when my mind reconciled with the present, I was overjoyed to learn that you have always been with me.”

The passion was rising fast, as Yui's moans could not hold back the storm that raged in Raoul's every thrust. Yui would match such a storm with his own desire, and pushed back to meet each thrust. Raoul moaned and placed gentle bites and kisses on Yui's neck and shoulders.

“Let us never part Raoul...we've been given a second chance, and to me, you have always been in my heart, awakened or not.” Yui reached back, and gently pulled Raoul's hair towards him, and kissed him hungrily as their fever grew.

Raoul reached down and gently took Yui's cock in one hand, as he pulled back on Yui's hips with the other. The duel stimulation, and the passionate kisses was too much, combined with the warmth of the springs. And with a few more thrusts, Raoul's body trembled as his cock erupted within Yui. Yui's cries echoed in the stillness of the temple walls.

Their coupling would last for sometime before the two emerged from the ruins. There were many things that still needed to be done, and the two parted to their assigned duties. There would be more time to continue their private celebration after order was established.

After some brief reunions, the men divided into groups once again, and using the shuttles, flew over the large cities, finding the natives were indeed in control of their world once again. The network of tunnels were cleansed of Elders. The Sentinel's Chariot, along with the Lord's Shield made continuous runs in orbit over Yasuo. The last pockets of resistance were being removed, and the Elders neutralized. It was not a difficult thing as the natives outnumbered the Elders significantly.

Kai and Raoul scanned the surface from both ships and made sure there were no other threats. Kai thought about his Sentinel at Arms and could sense his calmer disposition when they met up before launching. He recalled Raoul's state after the news of Yui's murder were conveyed to him. He could not blame his rage, nor the madness he unleashed upon the Elders responsible. To see his eyes shine, and his lips smile once again gave him hope for his own reunion with Erin.

But as a leader, such things would wait for a few more hours. The task at hand needed to be completed, and a new leadership would now emerge in Alex and Ajax. He took great pride in such young men for their resolve in the face of a great enemy. But it was Riki's power that made that all possible. When he saw the collars fall off the natives necks, he knew the young leaders would step forward. And he was right.

The balance of power had been revealed in Iason and Riki and the element of surprise by the insight of Riki's planning became clear, when he and Iason took the battle into their hands and ran with it. The two heirs of Amoi were stunning in his eyes, and he knew that prophesy or not, they were special.

“I am glad to see the light shine in your eyes, my dear friend.” Kai spoke to Raoul as they headed to board their ships. “It is a beautiful thing indeed.”

“I have much to be grateful for my Lord.” Raoul then became serious, “I-I have not always treated your son with the respect he deserved..I wanted-”

“That is not necessary my friend. None of you were aware of each other. Hell even Iason had him wrapped in chains before they became lovers. If it wasn't for Iason being poisoned -of all things- this may never have come about. Their awakening was triggered by the very same minerals that just healed Yui. If it wasn't for all that, who knows how much longer we four would have spent in the freezer!” Kai laughed, as Raoul's shook is head.

“It just keeps going round in my head this whole business with Jupiter. And it was Iason's experiments that made her possible too!” Raoul widened his eyes, “That man is incredible. His intelligence has always been hailed as ingenious, and as Head of the Syndicate, I could never get my head around that brain pan of his.”

Kai agreed, “Well, it will be yet another set of reunions as we return to Amoi. Jupiter no doubt is wearing a whole on the floor with her pacing, and if she had fingernails, I'm certain they are all gone by now. We need to get word to her that it is all over.”

“We won't be able to do so until we cross the wormholes to the other side of the path.” Raoul became pensive, “We can use Aristia to boost our signal, and send a message through them.”

“Very good. Once we were done securing all of Yasuo, we'll make sure to send Sir James up in the Sentinel's Chariot to send a beacon to Amoi.”

“Well if we're all set my Lord, I will take the northern hemisphere, and you can take the southern. This little green planet will take no time with our scanners.”

The two Lords boarded their ships and quickly made to the higher atmosphere.

*~*~*

The Royals were all invited by Lord Theo to stay at his Estate that evening, but for now several triage centers had been organized, as Raimen and Yuri led the medical staff in curing the injured. They knew their reunion would wait just a few more hours, as the gravely injured would not survive, and they began to heal them with their inner powers. Several Elders were given a place to meditate, in order to channel the mysterious power from the mineral deposits to Raimen and Yuri.

It would always remain a paradox as to why only Iason and Riki could resonate with it, but no one was complaining as to it's curative nature. Riki made sure it was clear, that the power of Agatha, or Yasuo did not dwell in a heart filled with hate even if it was originally used to poison Iason. The right mentality was required, and it was well known that the Elders from Aristia did not dwell in hatred. They once turned their back on Elder Jonas Simone centuries before the great wars, and it was seen as betrayal. But in the end, it was the right choice.

There was a pleasant development, when the natives took account of their newly acquired gifts in that a growing number of them were indeed healers. To Raimen and Yuri this would be incredible help, as the medical staff they brought were spread thin, and only the most critical patients were being healed by Raimen and Yuri. When the natives felt compelled to touch the wounded, their hands began to glow softly. This was met with much excitement, as Yuri continued to step up and help the doctors organize their triage centers. Victor found much use of his surgical skills, as he and Dr. Haruki worked fast to stabilize the wounded, before they were passed on to the medical assistants.

In the hours that passed, Raimen would find his feet walking in the direction of Yuri's presence. He gently kissed her neck, in a way that she would now recall. It brought a sad smile to her face, as she closed her eyes and listened to his quiet voice.

“I can clearly remember the first time I saw you transform on the night we celebrated your Maiden's Song.” Raimen kissed her cheek, “You were so beautiful, so graceful...though that outfit suits you.”

“Well, it feels like ten thousand years, since I last felt your presence. I feel a bit overwhelmed actually..though I am up to my knees in bloody bandages. Far from glamorous.” Yuri tilted her head back to give Raimen a tender kiss.

His eyes were sad, as her words made the ache in his chest come to the front of his own memory. But he would need to let go of those thoughts. “It was indeed a far and distant world we left behind. One we shall never return to....nor do I desire to recall.” Raimen averted his eyes away from Yuri's gaze.

“Well, it's safe to say, that we shall never have a need to revisit that time. I have you now, and I'll be damned if I'll ever let you go a second time my love.” Yuri searched Raimen's eyes, as he once again turned to kiss her. “Now we'll never get all these wounded healed if we're going to-”

Raimen gathered Yuri in his arms, and drank from her lips. He would not let her go this time. He pulled her hand, and led her away from the triage center. He wanted her away from death and misery. At least for a few moments. Yuri seemed to understand his intentions, and did not protest. She gave Salus a nod, and walked behind Raimen who stopped by a nearby stream. There he found a group of large trees.

“This is not how I want to reunite with you my love, but I wanted us away from the images of what you dealt with on a daily basis for nearly three centuries. I tried to imagine what it was like for you, in the weeks that I've being awake. I've seen things unimaginable through the eyes of some rather endearing people..including these natives. In aiding our Iason and Riki to retrieving our lost civilization...I felt the anguish of loss, and the emotional weight upon my heart..and soul.” Raimen had a faraway look, as he whispered what weighed on his mind. Yuri took his hand in hers, as she tipped his chin down towards her. She reached with her arms and wrapped them around his waist.

“When you died,” Yuri began, “I was too distraught over you to think clearly, as Kai and I had little time to mourn both you and Erin. It was then, as it was here now; today. Back then, we dove into a war we never would have believed could last one year, let alone five centuries. But in those few moments when the sounds of war went silent, I always thought of you. You were the first thought of my day, and the last thought I had, before I closed my eyes for the last time.

Yuri stared at Raimen's eyes, which became filled with tears. There was a time when she could cry at the silliest of things, much less a serious moment. But she learned, and lived, and found the strength within to put on a brave face, when the loss of life was a daily occurrence, and others looked to her for strength. But as the tears slowly rolled down Raimen's cheeks, she would let go of those closely held emotions and give in to the moment of his sadness.

Raimen held her face tenderly in his hands, as Yuri joined him in silence, tracing the moisture down his face. Their bodies trembled as the emotions began to rise, and neither could speak a word. Raimen could feel her heart beating rapidly against his own as he pulled her tight against his body. His mind was fresh with the memories of Yuri. Whereas Yuri, had many an mournful thought in the absence of Raimen.

As the couple held each other, Raimen lost his footing when the soil near the stream gave way and they both went into the water. To the surprise of onlookers, the Royal couple was heard laughing as Yuri began to splash her bewildered and equally playful husband. Before too long the wet lovers were joined by a number of children who found it quite funny that Yuri had jumped on Raimen. The wet Lord swallowed a mouthful of water as he and his Queen both went under once again.

This brought a smile to Salus, who knew this would be the beginning of many such reunions. The first sunset of a free Yasuo was soon to begin a night of celebrations, and many private moments between lovers. The population of the small green planet was quickly learning that their saviors included the prophesied Tempest and his Flame, and their Royal parents. But it was Iason and Riki that were hailed above all with a power unseen by anyone on either side of the Path of the Ancients.

As the sopping wet royals were being helped out of the stream, several women came with towels to prevent them from catching a chill. Raimen was all smiles as he looked at his queen being attended. Returning were the days when Lords and Ladies once ruled Amoi, and Yasuo was never going to be the same as they loved the story of their return. To see the Lords with their Queens gave them a personal insight into the lives of such a civilization where love reigned supreme.

Iason and Riki had such a love. One that survived time and space, and in view of the natives who witnessed the love that Iason had for Riki. How their combined gifts could move the heavens and the hearts of all who knew them was a wonderful power indeed. When the natives saw Riki for the first time, they were in awe as to his young age, and alluring gaze. Riki's transformed state gave chills to those who felt his power, and when he and Iason were reunited, they all swore that time had stopped.

Little did they know that it had stopped in the moments where Riki and Iason were seeing the echoes of that time. It was a feeling of complete clarity to them both, but it was only a beat of one's heart to everyone else. Yet another link to their ever unfolding lives in times past, times lost and now in a the present time- found. As their life force seemed attuned with Yasuo, the two lovers had been sent to the hot springs, by not only the Elders, but by the Oracles who witnessed the events from the shadows.

These mystic men knew the young Lords had spent energy from a level unknown to the Elders. The Oracles could not find the words, as Iason and Riki absorbed the raw power of Yasuo. And by the expressions on Kai and Raimen's faces who, along with their Queens- wanted to understand how the two evolved to their level of power. They kept their thoughts stored away for a time when they could ask them for their input.

But Yuri and Raimen couldn't wait to put them under the microscope, to which Iason responded: “I think not.” Riki just laughed, and kicked up his tempest wind, making the leaves on the ground swirl around Raimen and Yuri. Iason winked and walked away from his parents with his arm around Riki as they entered one of the shuttles and flew towards the ruins. As they flew overhead, they took in the destruction of the jungle and the ancient buildings. Riki looked down below and could see the clean up taking place as there were many Elders that needed disposal.

“Damn Iason it looks like someone took a gigantic hoe and uprooted the jungle!”

“That my love is the work of our three newly awakened Lords. Omaki left a rather interesting wall of Elders I'm told.” Iason piloted the shuttle to where a wall of ice still stood high. There were dozens of Elders encased in it, and the ravine below was littered with Elders who fell to their deaths.

“Holy shit! Omi did this?!” Riki spoke, as he looked back at the wall of ice. “I have to admit, it was damn creative of him to do this. Who knew he held the power of ice.”

“There will be no living with him now.” Iason said rather dryly, “I can almost see him hitting innocent people with snowballs from atop the Taming Tower.”

Riki laughed, “Yeah, I don't doubt Argent will have him over his knee soon enough. And he's the opposite of Omaki with fire as his power, so that should prove interesting. At least neither of them will be blowing up the ship on the way home.” Riki teased.

“Yes, well be that as it may, we need to keep an eye on everyone on the trip home since it will be several days travel.” Iason raised his eyebrow, “And with our parents all together once again, there will be no telling the mischief they will all get into.”

“Aw Iason, don't worry.” Riki grinned, “They'll be too busy getting reacquainted again. Remember us? We didn't come out for days, so all these couples will be far too busy to get into any real trouble.”

Iason landed the shuttle at the entrance of the temple ruins. He led Riki down the steps that led to the hot springs. He was pleasantly surprised to find the room had now been prepared with fresh robes, candles and incense. Riki could sense the many thoughts of Native, Ancient, and crewman alike. It seemed everyone knew they had headed for the springs.

While this did not surprise Iason, it was something else for Riki, who could pick up on the many minds. This was especially true with his close proximity to the minerals, and the way they enhanced his senses.

“It looks as if Martin has been here.” Iason spoke, “They were quite reliable weren't they?”

Riki nodded. “Yeah...those two were amazing.”

“I had him and Jake enter the spring immediately after the battle ended here in the jungle If it wasn't for Yui fainting, they would have been first. But they patiently waited and watched Yui being restored in strength. They may have benefited from our initial healing of their bodies, but I was certain they would feel better after a soak in the hot springs.”

Riki once again nodded, as Iason spoke. This made Iason turn to face Riki, who walked around, then reached to touch the walls. And just as with Iason, the walls began to glow softly. This brought a smile to Riki's face.

“What is it love?” Iason whispered. He watched as Riki closed his eyes, and breathed softly against the stone walls.

“This is a familiar feeling. The hot springs on Aristia I thought were strong, but Yasuo really came to life at a critical moment when I first came here ten thousand years ago. And now this second time around, it truly felt as if Yasuo came to life when we needed the strength. There were hundreds of thousands of Elders Iason, if we did not have this advantage, or the strength in numbers, this could have turned out bad for us. The collars were my trump card. When Elder Viho placed me in that collar, I had to suppress all my inner powers behind the wall I created. If not, the natives would have been slaughtered.”

Iason listened quietly, as Riki spoke of a time long ago, where his travels to escape his sadness brought him to a little green planet filled with a rich culture. He learned the ways of a people gifted with natural powers. Or were they?

“Riki, I can't help but wonder about the natives and their natural habitat. You said that when the old Viho collapsed, the room you were in began to glow when you transformed. Is this not so?” Iason touched the wall next to Riki, “I believe the natives have a symbiotic relationship with this world. I could feel the raw power of the minerals within every cell of my body. It was this resonating we have with these same minerals that worked towards the end result. If we had not released them of those collars, Yasuo would never had been able to help the natives take back their world.”

“You believe this Iason?” Riki looked surprised, “It is not like you to speak of such things. Always the Intellect in matters of scientific boundaries.” Riki faced Iason who looked down at the hot springs. “We seem to have found our place in time, is this not so?”

Iason was quiet for a moment, choosing his words carefully. “You were right my love, you took a great risk allowing yourself to be taken the way you were. I did not know of the minerals until these ruins reacted to me. When I touched the collar on Salus' neck, and the minerals reacted, I understood what you were trying to do.” Iason now faced Riki, “Please don't do that to me ever again my Prince.”

“Iason, I'm sorry I-”

Iason's eyes betrayed his anxiety as they looked down at Riki's face. He reached forward and traced his hand down Riki's cheek. “You and I have experienced much heartache in the past. We've been separated by the will of men who did not understand our bond then or now. And we've been separated by the powers that be, that rule time, love, and the things that make us the men we are. So yes, I have come to believe that what we've experienced would make the most intelligent if not spiritual person doubt his own science.” Iason pulled Riki into his embrace. “So my scientific Intellect mind is also evolving my love. It has to. For there is nothing that could explain what happened here today.”

Riki reached up and kissed Iason's lips. The tall Lord reached around Riki's body, and tightened his embrace setting off a ritual they had come to know intimately. The springs seemed to agree with their mood, as the water began to glow softly, and they had yet to enter it. The two lovers began to undress, as the ache to feel their flesh press against each other was now all that mattered. Riki smiled as Iason's inability to undo his trousers was met with a gentle laugh.

This had never happened before. Iason would have torn them off his body for a certainty, if Riki had a change of clothes to slip into. How could he return to Estate with his clothes all torn, and the young Prince clearly ravished? Such were the thoughts of one Iason Mink.

“Let me help you my love..” Riki smiled, “I think your eagerness to get to your prize has created a knot.” Riki reached down, and slowly undid the laces of his leather pants. He watched with gentle eyes, as Iason peeled the tight fitting leather pants off his body, and down towards his feet. Iason paused on his knees, to gently lift his legs one at a time, freeing Riki of their tight embrace.

Iason moaned softly, as he wrapped his arms around Riki's waist, and listened to his breathing. He could feel Riki's cock begin to swell against his body, and made Iason shiver with anticipation. Riki pulled his vest coat off, and his sleeveless shirt soon followed. Iason noticed his body jewelry had not survived his latest battle. He frowned to find it had melted streaking down his body giving Riki a beautiful golden glow.

“Yes, we are can now brag to each other that we are fucking hot...” Riki whispered, as a smile escaped his lips. He reached with his hands and cupped Iason's face, “You were stunning my Lord...if we didn't have those idiots to kill, I would have taken you in mid-air.” Riki's hair began to dance softly.

“It is you who took my breath away,” Iason kissed his tight abdomen, and made his way to Riki's hips placing gentle bites here and there. “I heard your anger vibrate against my flesh, and watched the enemy tremble with your transformation. I think we even scared our own fathers.” Iason looked up at Riki whose eyes had now turned black as night.

Iason could feel Riki's love, as his gentle gaze triggered his own transformation. Riki began to pull Iason's cloak off his shoulders, and continued until Iason was shirtless. He could see Iason's chest rise and fall, as his excitement was growing.

“You look so beautiful my love,” Riki traced his hand down Iason's face. It was unusual to see Iason soiled, or his clothing all worn, with several holes as reminders of the battle they had just fought. Dangers they survived. “Let's see if we can cleanse your body from the blood stains that mar your beautiful face.”

Riki gave Iason his hand, helped him rise, while he freed Iason of his pants. Iason was quite aroused, and this caused Riki to lick his lips. “It is you who now appears quite eager my love..” Iason teased, “our bodies betray the hunger we both feel. Come, let's join the powers that be, and thank them properly.”

Iason walked towards the springs with Riki holding his hand. He stepped in feeling the warm water around his toes. Iason had several lacerations and bruises to show for his efforts. Far less damage considering his opponents did not survive his hand. He could feel the sting of the warm minerals flow up his legs, and reach the next injury, washing the scrapes and bruises like the dust and dirt off his body. Riki watched the springs glow brighter, as Iason was healed.

“Come my love, Yasuo is calling your name...” Iason whispered, as his transformed body gave him a golden aura. “You are my Tempest true, and there is no one else.”

Riki's tempest kicked up, as he walked into the spring and into Iason's embrace. Their lips joined and the surge of power between them made the temple glow, and there was no mistaking their link. Iason tightened his embrace, and Riki wrapped his legs around Iason's waist, as the tall Lord stepped in further until their bodies were nearly submerged. Without a word, they closed their eyes and went under. Their minds reached out in every direction, as their union with Yasuo was complete.

They did not realize, that while they shared this intimate embrace, the Elders, Oracles and all empaths could see their intimate joining. While many smiled and closed their empathic gaze away from the lovers, others could not. The Elders who have seen the young Lords before, -namely the Elders- did not hesitate and began to sing songs and eagerly preoccupied themselves with their duties.

However the Oracles and the natives had never seen such a beautiful joining. It made the empathic natives smile, and begin to prayerfully thank Yasuo for their saviors, but they also tuned out their encounter moments later due to the private nature. But the Oracles could not break away their gaze. To them, it was prophesy fulfilled, and worthy of honoring their love by witnessing their union with Yasuo.

But their Royal parents did not agree.

“I have been watching you for some time young mystics. It is rude to intrude on the joining of lovers... my dear Oracles,” Erin whispered in their minds, “The Flame and his Tempest may be your saviors..but they are our sons.” Erin's voice was steady, and unmistakably parental. “I would recommend you follow the example of all empaths on Yasuo, and close your seeing eye and give them some privacy.”

The Oracles found the four Royals now within their minds. It was quite an embarrassment to the older men, as Kai and Raimen stood before them with their arms crossed over their chests.

“Your people need your guidance on this first day of freedom,” Kai began, “You have better things to do than watch the private moments of two young Lords.” Kai's voice was low and quite clear as to his disapproval.

Raimen found it quite funny, however did not break this outwardly appearance of unity among the Royal family. He and Kai knew this would be the beginning of their return to the role as leaders of their Clans, and that meant shielding their sons from the public when necessary.

“Forgive us my Lords, and fair Queens.” Oracle Jorn spoke, “We stand in awe of their magnificence, as we have never witnessed such men before..” He bowed slowly, “It is as if the gods have descended upon Yasuo, and we could not help but watch their stunning beauty.”

Kai was not convinced, and his hair began to sway, to the worry of the Oracles. “I will not repeat myself Oracles, they are flesh and blood, and they are our flesh and blood. While I can't deny their importance to you and your people, they deserve the same respect in their privacy.”

“Of course..my Lords..we spoke in error.” We shall return to our duties. You are right- Yasuo has many that need our guidance and reassurance. Even after the battle, the hearts and minds of our people need to be comforted.”

Yuri smiled, as Raimen stood proudly as the conversation went on. The role of Lord and father was one and the same to him. And to Kai. Erin on the other hand was more the diplomat, and smiled sweetly as the Oracles faded.

“Those two will have all of the known universe invading their privacy the way they are looked upon.” Kai grumbled, “Do either of you have any idea how the Lord's Dance brought Amoi to a standstill with their introductions?”

Raimen now let down his stoic facial expression, and began to giggle. “Iason found no peace! He had a gaggle of both men and women after him, and that was under tight security!”

“Yes, we did see that footage dear husband...” Yuri gave Raimen a leveled gaze, “I seem to recall you two had quite a long line of equally eager men and women after you for a dance.”

Kai rolled his eyes, as Raimen couldn't help himself, “Yes, well that was Kai's fault, he was just too irresistible, all decked out in his royal robes.” Raimen raised his hand and pointed a finger at his partner in crime.

“That won't save YOU from answering to me dear husband..” Yuri gave him a playful pinch on the cheeks. “You were quite handsome yourself.”

Kai and Erin now took a closer at their fellow Lord and Lady. “Raimen,” Kai began, “what in the world happened to you and Yuri?” Kai walked around them, and and noticed that both stood dripping wet from head to foot.

“Well, it's a funny story actually..” Raimen began, “We found this incredible species of fish near a stream, and Yuri decided to take a closer look.” Raimen lied.

“Well, I hope next time you two remember to change your clothing.” Erin smiled, “I heard there was quite a commotion near a certain stream earlier this evening. I can only assume it was you two looking for this incredible species of fish?”

Kai shook his head as he looked at Yuri's long blond hair all dripping wet. He was glad to see her smiling, and back to their usual antics. Raimen had a certain glow that touched his heart. Yes those two will find their place in the present, and their lives will now move forward. As they should have so long ago.

The two couples playfully teased each other, as they faded out of Erin's mind and tuned out their son's intimate encounter. They would soon be engaged in their own as the festivities were being planned for the Royal Family to enjoy the celebration of Yasuo's freedom.

Meanwhile, the two lovers had surfaced from the mineral waters to find their bodies restored, and their desire intensify. Iason and Riki could hear their parent's distant voice in the corners of their minds, but did not care to tune them in, as they knew they had just booted out the Oracles from viewing their lovemaking. It gave them both an erotic charge to know they were being seen, even if they preferred not to. But as their passion grew intense, Iason leaned against the steps of the spring, lifting Riki up and slowly penetrated him.

Riki moaned softly, as he took Iason's mouth. Their bodies felt wonderful against each other, and the minerals intensified their intimacy. “Iason,” Riki broke away, “I love you Iason..” Riki whispered. “I am so happy that this has come to an end...that we can now return to Amoi. We can finally put this all behind.”

Iason tightened his grip on Riki's hips, as his face betrayed his love for the young Prince, “Oh..love. Promise me...promise me you will never walk away from me again...please promise me...”

Iason's mind thought back to the instant he knew Riki was gone, and the rage he felt when he had to scale back his power. His body began to tremble with both anxiety and ecstasy as the raw emotions came pouring out into his thrusts. Riki could feel the intensity rise in his sadness, his excitement and his rage.

“I promise..” Riki whispered back, as tears welled up in his eyes. Iason's eyes told him how much he suffered, and endured. Knowing Iason held the power to kill them outright, he was held back by his father and Raimen. “I promise...please don't cry..”

Riki pulled Iason tight against his embrace. And as their bodies gave in to the raw emotion, their anxiety was released. With the passion of their coupling heading towards the end, the two lovers began to thrust harder. Their bodies came in blissful relief, as their energy was sent into space. But Iason's eyes told Riki he was not finished yet.

“I desire to feel you press against me my Prince..” Iason spoke, as he kissed Riki softly.

The two Lords enjoyed the residual spasm that came with their release, then Iason lifted Riki off his cock, and nodded for him to follow him out of the springs. They made their way to the area where Martin had laid out some thick blankets and pillows. Having cleansed their bodies of the day's events, they dried off. Iason laid back down on the soft blankets, as Riki moved his body over Iason's and caressed it with his own. The wonderful scent of jasmine and sandalwood filled the room, as the lovers began their sensual dance once more.

Riki tenderly kissed Iason's lips then moved down his neck, to the sensitive erogenous zones he was well acquainted with. Iason caressed Riki's body, and slowly traced the lines of his muscular back. Riki looked into Iason's eyes and smiled, as his lover moaned when he pulled his cheeks apart, and played with his spiral entrance.

“Oh..that feels really nice my love..” Riki purred and began to grind his hips over Iason's. His cock springing back to life. “I think I'll begin here..” Riki lowered his body, sensually touching Iason's very sensitive area between his hips and this cock.

“Mmm, that feels wonderful Riki...” Iason moaned.

Riki stroked Iason's cock meaningfully, and then slowly moved down, taking him into his mouth. Iason raised his hips and gently stroked his hair. Riki caressed Iason's legs, and reached with his hands to entwined them with Iason's. Riki skillfully brought the tall Lord to the brink of release. And the moment he felt Iason strain against the rush towards release, Riki stopped and gently rolled the excited Iason over to his abdomen penetrating Iason once more.

“Oh my love, you tease me so deliciously, I don't know if I can hold on much longer...” Iason pushed back into Riki's thrusts, as his inner muscles now pulled against Riki's cock. This was Riki's favorite sensation, as he eagerly pushed against the pull in perfect sync.

“I believe you are quite ready my Flame...where shall we send this?” Riki's voice was strained, as his essence began to rise, and his body transformed along with Iason.

The walls began to glow even more, as their power rose. Iason and Riki began to glow with their impending release. Through gasps and moans, Iason manged to say, “the pits.”

Riki understood, and in a moment of clarity sent his message to the men working the mass graves.

“Everyone..you need to get as far away from the open graves!” Riki's voice boomed in everyone's mind.

Odi and Ayuda who were standing guard outside the temple, turned to look at the temple as it glowed brightly against the slowly setting sun. Without hesitation, they had Natives, Intellects and Warrior alike get out of harms way. As Iason and Riki's breathing labored, the surge of their release came flying out of the temple walls, and into the open graves. The ground rumbled, as their energy struck the deep pits instantly turning the corpses into ash.

The men cheered as their work was cut in half, and only those who understood the energy's meaning stood back with a broad grin on their faces.

“I still envy their sexual release!” Omaki complained, as he was eagerly devouring Argent in a secluded part of the jungle.

“Hush love, and mind your own business..” Argent playfully bit his neck.

Iason and Riki enjoyed their romp, and as they relaxed on the soft blankets, Iason looked up at the privacy screens to see two perfectly pressed outfits hanging for them to change into. Riki laughed, as he thought about the knot on his leather pants they painstakingly undid in order to remove them in their excitement. “Yes, Martin is quite on top of things my love.” Riki giggled, as Iason playfully bit down on his neck.

*~*~*

After Raimen and Yuri got a change of clothes, Heiku's awakening was finally addressed, as Erin monitored Heiku's mind making sure the mind block was holding. She watched the good physician patiently while the end of the battles raged on, and patiently held his mind in check until Victor placed him in a mind block. He knew the images in his mind were rising up to the surface, even though he had fainted into darkness. He let his mind dwell in the serene images of Amoi, that Lady Erin was projecting into his mind's eye. She watched as Iason and Riki stopped the Elders in their tracks and turned them to ash. She had never known anyone as powerful as Riki, nor as focused as Iason. But as she watched Riki and Iason enter his mind, she knew Heiku would be fine.

Next to appear was Kai who knew how the Heiku died. Even if the scars on his body had been removed in his reanimation, Kai could still feel them. But Heiku was his personal physician. A Lord who unlike any other, helped both his physical and emotional pain heal enough to command, in a war that went on without end.

Raimen and Theo asked to be present, but it was Yousi, who pressed his way forward to ask Riki if he could be present. Riki at first refused his request, not wanting the young Lord to suffer more than his own share of trauma, not to mention seeing his lover die. But in the end, gave in to Yousi's persistence.

“My Lords,” Theo came up to Riki and Iason, “I have a favor to ask of you..”

Theo spoke in hushed words, as a special request was being made. Iason at first stiffened up when he heard it, but as Riki looked over Theo's shoulder, he gave a nod. Theo bowed, as he thanked them both.

As they all appeared in Heiku's mind, they found him standing at the edge of a battlefield. The front lines had pushed the Elders to the southern coast, and the day was overcast with a relentless downpour. His body was covered with injuries of one sort or another, and his clothing was bloodstained. The sounds of war were nearby, and the faint glow in the clouds ahead of him were indicative of the front lines where Kai was engaged with the Elders.

He looked at the fields below him that brought him closer to the beach, where the dead and dying lay waiting for him. He watched as Kai's reapers were killing off the Elders that were still moving. There would be no mercy for them, and he felt none despite his oath to save lives. This oath was altered when the Elders first began their attacks. He'd been following Lord Kai for nearly 200 years, and had gotten quite used to seeing him from behind. While Kai's reapers eliminated the Elders, Heiku quickly had his men seek out the living to tend to their wounds.

He knew he did not posses the powers to heal despite being a doctor. His inner strengths were based on energy, and not the sort that healed, but electrified. The only way he could use his power was to shock those who's heart had stopped beating under his care. It wasn't always successful, but he had it down to an art...if he found them in time.

This wasn't always the case. So as Iason and Riki found him in his mind, he continued to stare off into the fields littered with the fallen. The sounds of war loomed all around him, and his hands were now drenched with blood. He would bend down to wash them in the sea, yet as he stood up, they were stained once more. The anxiety over so much blood made him tremble, as a long procession of wounded were being brought to him. Heiku went from one casualty to another, frantically using all he had at his disposal to save lives.

In the background the voices of Omaki, Argent and Yousi were heard. “Let us give you a hand Lord Quiahtenon, you seem rather busy no?” Omaki asked.

“Yes my friends, it has been one of the bloodiest days yet.” Heiku gave the three a weak smile.

“Is there anything I can get you?” Yousi came up behind Heiku and touched his shoulder. Heiku turned and looked at Yousi with kindness. “Perhaps a drink of water?” Yousi opened his flask and soaked a bandage with cool water, and began to clean the sweat and dirt off Heiku's forehead.

Heiku touched his hand, “Thank you Yousi, you are always so kind.” The two shared a moment, as their eyes met with an expression of longing. “War is hell, is it not? I seem to be short handed at the moment having lost several medics in as many hours. So yes, if you three can spare some time, I could use some help.”

“Here let us do this,” Omaki spoke, “why don't you help the good Doctor treat the wounded Yousi, and we'll care for the others.” Omaki winked, as he and Argent went to the where the dead were being prepared for burial. This would keep Heiku preoccupied while they secretly collected specimens.

“Yousi, why is it you three are always on the move?” Heiku looked at Yousi while they bandaged an injured Warrior. “I thought we were getting to know each other, and now I hardly see you anymore. Have I offended you somehow?”

Yousi blushed, as Heiku touched his hand. “I-It is nothing like that Lord Quiahtenon, we're just always on the move. You know, taking the census.” Yousi lied, “We sometimes are gone for months at a time, so it only seems that way. You have never offended me, please don't think you have.” Yousi's voice trembled.

“Please call me Heiku, Yousi.” Heiku spoke, “You must see much misery in what you three do..war is an awful business, yet it never goes broke.” Heiku tried to bring some humor into their conversation, but this was met with the halfhearted laughter of his patient who winced in pain.

“No more than you Lord Heiku..” Yousi spoke. “you have also seen your share of misery.”

The two men shared a smile, before the scene changed into one of a breathtaking sunset. As Iason and Riki looked on, the horizon began to darken, and the setting sun hid behind the shadows of increasing clouds. Kai and Yuri witnessed a growing wave approaching, as the surge of the ocean was heard in the background. But the roar of the sea was not what was coming, it was something else altogether. No this was a familiar image to Kai, and as the image became clearer, it was also one Yuri was intimately familiar with as well.

Iason and Riki on the other hand did not expect this. As Yousi, Raimen and Theo watched, a large wave of fallen came crashing around Heiku. The ancient physician stood facing the wave, as he parted the waters filled with the dead floating by. It wasn't that Heiku didn't care, it was not that at all. Heiku would reach for the living, and pulled them into his embrace. He would tend to them, and as they were treated, they were released back into the sea. There was not much time for anything else, as the waves brought more to be treated. Those who did not survive, sank into the deep, and this was the anxiety Heiku dreaded.

Kai shook his head, as the scene played before him. He knew that his surgeon was suffering, knew the blood on his hands, was the same blood he could not wash off his own. Heiku had treated Raoul when Yui was discovered, and Heiku was extra careful with the broken Lord, who stepped into the shoes of his father Lord Rene Am.

Theo's heart raced as he witnessed yet another soul suffer such tragic conditions. His heart ached for Heiku who stood facing the sea of dead and dying without fear. He looked at all witnessing this awakening with interest, as the familiar sadness covered all of their faces.

There were many ways the Elders would counteract the powerful thrust of Lord Kai and his Intellect soldiers. Since the Intellects could take to the skies, the Warrior Lord had protection from both above, and below. Elders often laid their assassins in the many battle fields, waiting for an opportunity to kill the Warrior Lord as he walked by. Heiku was always near Kai, as he walked the battle zones. Many times to put a fallen Warrior or Intellect at peace in their final moments.

“So many...there are so many to cure.” Heiku spoke, “But it is impossible. Those bastards don't care how they murder the innocent, and the wounded often come to me in pieces. It can't be done....” Heiku finally turned his back to the image, as the roar of the sea was once again approaching. He knew it was not the pristine waters he recalled, but the blood that flowed from the dead and dying. Heiku wanted the nightmare to go away.

The scene changed, and Heiku was tending to the injured, Lord Kai had come to assess the wounded, and see to his physician's needs in supplies and medical personnel. Suddenly there was a loud commotion, and a familiar shout heard by Kai. The voice heard by everyone was that of Heiku himself.

“My Lord, look out!”

Heiku saw the flash of steel in the hand of an Elder. This evil came flying from the shadows and leaped at Kai. Heiku ran at a dead sprint between the Elder and his Lord. As Kai once again closed his eyes, he recalled the sounds of death that fell into his arms. Heiku had taken the fatal strike and there was nothing he could do. A scene the Warrior Lord would never escape. As Kai watched Heiku's last moments, the tall Intellect spoke, “Please watch your back my Lord, since I will no longer be able to do so”. Kai felt the familiar sting of heartache, as yet another had fallen to protect him.

Erin watched in horror, as Heiku fell. Her heart ached to see Kai's world through the eyes of his personal physician. Yuri shook her head, as she knew Heiku's father, and now his son also fell to the madness of long ago. Raimen raised his hand to his mouth, as he gasped over the tragedy.

Yousi's eyes became filled with tears. He never knew how Heiku had died, only that he never got the chance to express his love for the quiet man who cared for the wounded. A man he thought did not care for him, the way he did. But as Yousi saw Heiku's affection from afar, he now understood that the young physician did indeed have feelings for him.

Riki and Iason stood watching without any emotion. The many images they had witness in the months since their awakening were difficult to watch, but could not be avoided. Heiku was loyal to his dying day, like the many who guarded the great Warrior Lord for centuries. Riki steeled himself for his father's sake, but within his own mind, the overwhelming sadness of all present, made his heart ache terribly.

Iason approached the image of Heiku in Kai's arms, but then stopped as he saw Kai grip the neck of the Elder, and snap it with his bare hand. This shocked everyone, as they all knew this was not Heiku's memory, for he had died. This was Kai's recall.

Kai's image faded as his screams echoed in everyone's mind. Erin quickly faded, and held her Lord Husband while the rest remained within the mind's eye of Riki and Iason.
Now visibly shaken, Riki slowly knelt beside Heiku who lay on the field of battle. When the scene changed, the dense fog did not deter the traumatized Heiku, who was found standing at the beginning of his path that began to glow.

The fog slowly lifted, and all turned to see Heiku staring at them. “I am here my Lords.” Heiku whispered. His voice was trembling, and his eyes were filled with tears. “I know my Lord is suffering, and I need to be with him now. Please, help me get to him.” Heiku's voice was somber, only above a whisper.

“Yes my friend,” Iason whispered, “Let's end this nightmare and bring you to the present."

It was an emotional event to say the least as Heiku's memories while intense the past several days, seemed to have merged with the current battle he was engaged in. As the images of present and past battles reconciled in his mind, he realized his life had came to an end. He, like Lord Rene Am and his son Raoul, came between the Warrior Lord and an assassins blade.

Heiku looked at Yousi, and gave him a weak smile. The quiet Lord came up to Heiku and gave him a gentle kiss. “I will see you soon my love.” Yousi whispered. Then he, Yuri and Raimen waved as they faded.

Theo remained behind, and watched Riki and Iason take him towards the end of the path, where the dead had become loud, and the battles roared in the background. As the three kicked to the surface, Heiku stared straight up, and kicked hard. He knew there were people who loved him waiting at the surface. When he finally breached the surface, he heard Riki's voice.

“Welcome home Lord Quiahtenon,” Riki smiled.

“You almost made that too easy for us.” Iason spoke, “But you came through splendidly."

“Well my Lords,” Heiku smiled, “It was not easy to see all the fallen in my mind again, but at least I know I'll have the opportunity to greet some of them back. Is this not so?”

“Yes my dear friend,” Kai spoke, “We shall indeed. Hundreds of thousands, and all will need our help in one way or another.” Kai looked down at Heiku as the physician scrambled to his feet, and gave Kai an enthusiastic hug. His robotic arm was quite strong, and this made Kai wince a bit. But he didn't mind. His personal physician had returned, and now he could enjoy his company without thinking of his death ever again.

“I want you to know my Lord, that I do not regret my actions. I would gladly do it again if it meant keeping you safe.” Heiku smiled, as Kai averted his gaze. “Now we'll have none of that my Lord. I know you suffered much in that time, but as I recalled my actions, I also remembered that you placed your shield above hundreds if not thousands of souls in the time I served you. So please, don't let the past haunt you. It is all over my Lord, and we have much joy to celebrate in our near future. You can begin here. Yasuo will become the cornerstone upon which our people can grasp our healing by the heart. Amoi needs our Royal Family.”

Erin held her husband's hand, as Heiku made his declarations. The slight tremble in Kai's lips betrayed the storm within his heart over the images he was reliving in his mind. Kai would still require her help in healing, and she knew it would take some time. But she also felt that Heiku was correct in his words, Amoi did need the Royal Family. The battle for Yasuo exercised many ghosts in the minds of the awakened. Key players in Jupiter's Renaissance were now in position to bring back their Golden Age. Beginning with the Royal Families.

“There will be many changes I'm sure.” Kai spoke, “It would seem that with the exception of Iason and Riki, the four of us Royal's will need to catch up with you younger ones.” Kai laughed. A welcomed sound to everyone. How do you feel now my friend?”

“Well patching up and healing all these wonderful people will be therapeutic I think. since their injuries are the same since they were given by those same bastards.” Heiku watched, as more mass graves were being dug some distance away at the base of a barren mountain. The Elders would not be given any ceremony but the count as they are being tossed into the pit.

Riki and Iason thought of the mass grave Jupiter had beneath her tower. She felt the same with regards what an Elder such as Eric deserved. The natives, though a peaceful people by nature, did not bat an eye, nor shed a tear for any of them.

Within Riki's mind...

Theo took a deep breath as if he were rising through the sea of tears feeling the sensations once again. But as soon as the Lords had all vanished, Theo looked to his right, as Riki's tempest veil and Iason's golden veil were lifted. Behind it stood Simon. He was visibly shaken, and rooted where he stood. Theo had asked Iason and Riki if the would be Heir of the Elders could witness this awakening. And as Iason at first protested, he knew Theo was trying to redeem the young Elder into the lives of those his actions harmed.

“He is not without hope my Lords.” Theo had spoken, “He is just as broken physically, as he is emotionally. I sense good in him, though he was raised by fools. He could have betrayed me on board the ship, as I know he sensed my activities with you my Prince, but yet he held his tongue. He could have warned the Elders, yet he did not, in fact he did warn them that you two would be their downfall, just as it occurred on Rhea.”

When Iason agreed, he did so for the sake of Riki, who could read his thoughts and found them to be as Theo spoke. When the images of Heiku's suffering were viewed, Theo could sense the pain of Simon's injuries that had yet to be healed. And when he was betrayed by Lord Bastian, his spirit had been thoroughly broken.

Theo had found him sitting near the destroyed flight deck watching Riki and Iason power up. He looked upon them in reverent awe, as the two Lords turned the Alaric Elders into ash, and had he not dragged him away from the ruins, would have been taken down to his death in the sea. He had nothing to look forward to but death and had resigned himself to die where he sat.

“You have witnessed for the second time, the awakening of your lineage young Heir. You have seen the truth of what our ancestors became, and how our home world was torn apart by Civil War. All you were taught- hell, all I was taught was a lie. These noble men are the truth, unfettered, and raw. You witnessed the Lord of the Warrior Clans lead the two surviving Clans against the Elders who chose to destroy, alongside the ones who had been lost to madness.”

Simon watched in silence, as the images were repeated from Theo's memory. He saw the sacrifice of one faithful man who did not hesitate to come between his Lord Master, and the blade of an assassin. But as he saw the sea of dead and dying pass Heiku, he closed his eyes. It was too much.

“You have been spared death young Lord Elder.” Theo whispered, “Mercy from men who owed you nothing but death.”

“I am of no consequence Theo.” Simon finally spoke, “I pose no threat to any of them, and I know my body would not survive one strike from the weakest among them.” Simon looked at the image of Kai. “I was left for dead, and homeless, aligned myself with a fool, and deserve death for my idiocy.”

“Perhaps, perhaps not.” Theo spoke, “You were given mercy because the young Prince could sense what I sensed within your mind...and your heart. If I had been like all the fools who died today, I would have been killed alongside them. I had everything to lose with either choice. But I made the right decision. Just as you made the right decision when it mattered, by not betraying me on board the ship as we traveled. I sensed your thoughts, yes. But you also knew Lord Oskuro was far more powerful than your leaders believed. You knew this.”

Simon sighed deeply, as he listened to Theo. His body ached, and his mind was swimming as the battle had sapped what power he had in raising his shield. He had no endless source of energy like the others, and knew he would not last long.

“So now what? I am not long for this world, same as before. Why didn't you let me die where I sat? Instead I now must endure the wrath of every native on this planet, or punishment by the Royals from Amoi. I have nothing.”

“That is were you are wrong young Heir.” Came the voice of Iason.

“You have a choice.” Riki spoke as he appeared once again. “You can choose to make a new life, within the Clans living on Aristia. If not, you could make a new life for yourself on Amoi.”

Simon was dumbstruck by Riki's words. He watched the two Lords now appear next to him. “You have convinced my Prince and this good man that you are being truthful Simon. So I ask you, since I do not possess the gifts of an Empath..would you make the changes needed to live among your Clansmen? You and I did not meet under good circumstances, though the injuries you now carry remind you of that fateful day. For whatever reasons, the powers that be deem you worthy of living. So I will ask you once more. Will you become my enemy if I offer you my hand in the spirit of trust?”

Iason stared into Simon's eyes, as the young Elder trembled. His body was fading, and yet his heart was beating loudly. What should I do? Can there be a place for me in the new world Amoi was about to enter? He thought to himself.

“I-I would like that...my Lord.” Simon whispered, as he looked up at the tall Intellect. “If you would grant me that mercy..I know I do not deserve such an offer.”

“Perhaps not,” Iason spoke, “but you have never known anything different than what you were taught. I see that now. But your reaction to the truth as it was presented to you, convinced me that it was the right choice.” Iason gave him a slight smile.

Simon returned the smile, as Riki looked at the two men shake hands. He could feel the relief in Simon's face, as tears welled in his eyes, and his knees gave out. The three men could feel Simon's body fading, and without hesitating, Riki and Iason sent their healing power in a gentle wave of energy. Simon had fainted, but was being strengthen by their effort.

When Simon collapsed, Theo had caught his body and was holding him as Iason and Riki quickly made their way to where Theo was. Raimen quickly followed as Erin broke away from Kai, and followed the three men to Theo's side.

Raimen looked at Iason as Lady Erin spoke, “So have you two made a choice?”

“Yes mother,” Riki spoke, “We will give him a chance.”

“Iason?” Raimen looked at his son, as he held his hand over Simon's chest. “I can take care of that...”

Iason gave him a nod, and Raimen transformed and immediately began to heal Simon. He gasped, as the healing energy he was giving was draining as fast as he was producing it. “He is in critical shape, I'm not certain he'll make it. He obviously was in bad shape long before this battle started.”

“Yes, he was.” Theo spoke, “When he first arrived, I could see his injuries were serious with all the scars he has.” Theo reached down and unbuttoned his tunic and exposed his chest to the shock of Iason and Riki.

“Well that explains the tremendous drain of power.” Raimen spoke as the many scars criss-crossing his body were obviously not healed yet. Iason recalled his injuries, and shook his head.

Yuri came up behind her husband, and together they doubled their healing powers. Yuri at first did not approach the ailing Elder, but when she saw Raimen and her son trying to save the young Elder's life, she came forward, and extended her hand over Simon's chest as she looked at Simon's broken body.

Moments later, Simon began to stir. As he opened his eyes he was surprised to see four Royals healing him. He was moved to tears, as the they smiled at his facial expressions. Kai looked down, and shook his head. He would have tossed Simon off a cliff without a moments hesitation. But even his lesser empathic powers pulled at his heart to heal the young man who was no older than Riki. It would take some time for him to warm up to this new development. But there were six people hovering around the young man willing to give him a second chance. So he accepted their decision.

After his body absorbed the healing powers of the Royals, he was told to find his way to the hots springs, and emerge himself into the healing waters. Theo volunteered, and quickly took the Elder in his arm, and made for the temple ruins. He was joined by Elder Bernard, and Petros who wanted to oversee his care. Spirits were high that the young Heir would become a member of the Elder Clans of Aristia if not Amoi, but caution optimism was being felt by many.

Those who viewed his many scars wondered how he was even able to walk, let alone fight. But Raoul made the observation that he had not engaged in battle, though he did raise his shield. Even this hard won Intellect wanted something positive to come from the young Elder. He was misguided perhaps, knowing only the truth of what he was taught. If not, he was certain Iason and Riki could quickly take care of any underlying threat or agenda.

With that being taken care of, Kai now instructed Alex and Ajax to organize groups to remove the dead, and begin the cleansing of the blood soaked streets to prevent any outbreak of disease. With their powers returning, the natives made quick work of this, as the debris and the stain which were the Elders of Yasuo, was now being pushed over the cliffs into the sea below.

Several natives had asked Riki and Iason how it was that they could incinerate the Elders completely, when they could not. Riki looked at them, and shrugged. “It is just what happens when we are really pissed, and merge our individual gifts.” Riki spoke. “It has been this way since we awakened, though I think Lord Iason and I have been linked before we ever even knew who we were.”

With a global clean up, the work was not a burden, as the freedom from their slave masters was now a thing of the past. Yasuo was not heavily populated by Elders, since they did live long lives. Many had no offspring, since they refused to co-mingle their essence with the natives. Though there was never a shortage of partners to quench their sexual needs. At least that was the case for the true bloods. The lesser Elders did have families, and sadly, most took their lives, knowing their way of life was at an end.

Theo felt sadness for those children born of Elder and native, though they did give the native women the choice to join them at the ruins. As Elder Viho's confession to knowing his preparations came to his thoughts, he wondered why the women chose to remain with their Masters. Perhaps they felt their children would be ostracized, treated as lesser beings, now that their fathers were dead. Maybe the women felt they would not be accepted among their own people, for the station they held in their households. Or perhaps, they loved their Masters.

Theo held many a deep thought as he watched the natives cleaning his Estate, knowing the Royal family would be staying there. It was not a sprawling Estate, but large enough for his guests. By some strange twist of fate, it was Theo's Estate that suffered no damage. He nearly laughed himself silly upon seeing his home standing intact. Perhaps his natives felt it was a sacred building, and needed to be preserved. He looked off into the horizon and saw the smoke that still rose from many of the larger Estates of his contemporaries. The natives preferred to destroy them all, and build anew. Something Theo could not fault them.

As the evening began, the funeral pyres were being lit, and the long lines of the departed were quickly enveloped by fire as far as the eye could see and several rows deep. Riki and Erin could feel the overwhelming pressure of loss, as well as Katze who had never experienced such a wave of emotion before. Kai was truly touched by the ceremonies, as the reality of war was still too fresh in his mind. But for him to see victory in a swift battle would go far in reconciling the past with the present. It was not a drawn out battle, nor centuries of gorilla warfare against an evil and elusive opponent hell bent on mindless destruction.

This was a solemn, but healing event for the Ancients. Hope laid at their feet, with their eyes set forward they now would find the spirit of celebration in the many faces of the natives. The Royals were about to be treated to a large celebration, where lovers and new friends, would begin to unwind. The natives had no idea what the Lords of Amoi were about to bring to such festivities. Lord and Queen, lover and loved...the reunions of broken lives were about to drink from the cup of reconciliation and impassioned love. Iason and Riki could feel the hearts of their parents begin to beat with anticipation. And the Lord Heirs of Amoi were looking forward to it all.

*~*~*
Thanx for your patience!! I have the end of this book in several pieces, so I thought I'd give you a nibble. I will post Chapter 19 hopefully by the weekend..if not soon thereafter. There will be 20 in all, which is the largest of the three books. So thanks again for reading my little story! Please give a review. (-.-) *bows most humbly*