Honey Glayzed

Honey Glayzed 10

Trust:Celebrate

Buffy leaned back against the wall watching as Dawn made a complete fool of herself at the breakfast table. Bill sat with his knee bent a foot resting on a chair. “If she leans over anymore, she'll fall in his lap,” Buffy bristled at the smirk she could hear in Faith's voice. “Have you talked to him yet?” Faith asked oblivious to Buffy's aggravation. “His accent is funny. They're so cute.”

“I thought you were seeing someone,” Buffy said walking over to join Xander and Anya.

“I said they were cute, not that I wanted to get with them.” Faith laughed again. Her day had dawned bright. She was going to be knighted today. Tonight, Faith corrected. She heard the trumpet sound then went to the door. “I guess now that Jhaymes is back here, you can head back to the hellmouth, George doesn't need the extra bodyguard. I would hate to see someone try to get to him with Jhaymes near, it would be suicide.”

“There see,” Giles pointed out. “We can go home and resume your training. Buffy,” Giles began at the horrified expression on Buffy's face. None of them knew, none of them understood, except for one, one knew. Buffy got to her feet and headed off. Angel would just have to forgive her, Buffy thought as she knocked on Spike's door. Buffy stood for a while, wondering why she got no answer. Spike leaned against the wall ignoring her. He was tired of being used as an escape from her brush with death. Buffy knocked a few more times then sighed and headed back to her room. Giles was right. Perhaps it was time to go home. But this place, Buffy ran her hand along the panel in the wall passing over jewels and scrolled words in the ancient script of Arcadia. Buffy felt the tears at the thought of leaving and quickly wiped them away.

Break

Count D sat on the rim of the indoor fountain speaking softly to young Sofu W. “-My father was fond of the tales of your family and how well you were doing. He said that when I chose a mate, I was to look among the humans.-”

“-I am glad that he has thus instructed you,-”Count D got to his feet and straitened his cheongsam. “-Come, I must get Aoi ready, today is the beginning of the festival. Just like humans on earth revere their idols of music, stage and screen, Arcadians revere their knights.-”

“-I will celebrate the knights in honor of the one who worked so hard to save me.-” Sofu W wiped away tears as he thought of his father handing him to Alera through a thick haze of choking black smoke. 'my son,' his father had begged. 'I'm already gone, but please, save my son.' weeping, Alera had fought the demons while carrying him to safety. The journey had been long and difficult. They traveled mostly by night using the local vampires, friends of high prince Nestoir as guards while they forged ahead. Towards the last leg of the journey, there had been an ambush. The vampires held them off while Alera had flown strait to Arcadia carrying him in her arms.

“-You will do great honor to the title of Sofu, and I have great pleasure of addressing you so,-” Count D bowed to the younger Kami.

“-Is it true?-” Sofu W said his voice piping up as they entered the nursery where Aoi played tag with the Honlon and her two uncles. “You have birthed, not only two children, but of the fourth generation?-” Count D nodded his eyes going soft as he gazed at his children. “-To have four generations alive at once, the amount of power...You have birthed a sovereign. None have ever existed, not even in Soofu A's family. He has a second, Soofu has a son, but he has as yet to choose a mate.-”

“-You know your family history well,-”Count D offered a smile.

“Papa!” Aoi abandoned her game hurrying to her papa's side. “-Today is a great day! For earth, for Arcadia!-” Aoi clapped her hands.

“-Yes, my little seedling,” Count D affirmed. “-Now let's go get you ready.-”

“I'll be pretty,” Count D laughed as the little girl swirled around. “Papa,” Aoi looked up at Count D. “Will I like highness Niklaus?”

“I don't know,” Count D grew sad that his daughter was so knowledgeable at such a young age. Seeing the expression on her papa's face, Aoi grinned and ran around him in a circle.

“Whee, Aoi fall down,” Aoi giggled when Count D caught her before her little bottom could connect with the floor. “Papa always catch me,” Aoi held on to Count D as they walked down the hall. “I know,” Aoi looked into her papa's mis-matched eyes. “You always will.” Count D wished he understood what his daughter was saying. He sighed going off to dress his children for the day.

Break

Faith walked behind Andy as the lady roamed the halls of the palace. “Where are we going?” Faith asked wondering why the princess was in a simple lilac colored dress. She had expected that Andy would already be getting into her royal garb.

“To collect the young ladies.” Andy giggled as she tapped on Carol's door. “They must be made aware of what is expected of them.” Carol executed a perfect curtsy then joined the group on the way to Julie's room. Julie opened her door. Niri dipped down in front of the group so Julie followed suit. She still wore her dressing gown, unsure if she should don the pretty dress her mother had gotten for her. It was like a prom dress, but after last night's dinner ensemble she feared it would not be enough. “Good morning girls,” Andy laughed throwing the curtains wide. “Let's get you all ready to become Ladies of the Arcadian court. You have to know what is expected of you.” Andy grinned at the girls. “Faith, I believe you have already received your instructions.” Faith nodded then stood guard at the door. It was time to become Arcadian. Her life would never be the same. Faith beamed a smile as she looked out at the horizon.

Break

Bill ignored the cold as he stood on the balcony. He heard Tom inside adjusting his hat and ignored him too. Large white beasts, horses with wings, Pegasi, many of them shone in the early morning sunshine. Their wings gleaming was almost painful, but he could not look away. As he stared out watching them circle the sky, he was nearly knocked back by a bright red wing. “Bright sun of the day to you,” Laton greeted. “You are being summoned to a private audience with the king... there are guests here that you would like to see.”

“Tom,” Bill looked back to see his brother already stepping onto the balcony. “They're here.”

“They?” Tom watched as the flying white equines landed on their balcony.

“Georg and Gustav,” Bill placed his glasses on his face while he looked for his heavy cloak and gloves. “They are with the king now.” Bill looked to the mount that stared at him with large sky blue eyes. “You are here for us?”

“Yes,” Niri stood tall with the other page and the older squire. “You are to arrive in the honor of the royal guests.” Tom nodded. “See, we even have saddles and reins today.”

“Meaning?” Tom tried his best not to look at the hovering red dragon that seemed to keep himself aloft through willpower alone.

“The knights and squires respect us too much to put such human trappings on us. But we want to honor you, so we will wear them.” Niri bowed low to Bill and Tom dropping her shining white head. “You have been personally selected by His Majesty Zarro on the recommendation of the great Soofu A.”

“Who? No. What?” Tom placed his hands on his hips. “We got here, because we wanted to meet Rain and Bikky. Then when we met them, he,” Tom pointed at Bill all the way fed up with surprises about this world. One thing was never what it should be, or even what it logically could resemble. Nothing here made sense. The king was a genius, yet he seemed as mad as a drunken hatter. There were things here that enjoyed the taste of human, not to mention the very fact that something here even knew what human tasted like and they all wanted a taste of his baby brother. Wasn't happening! “We are here now, because he ate a snicker doodle cookie!”

“-So it's my fault!?-” Bill exploded at his brother. “You ate it too!” Bill pointed at his brother.

“After you gave it to me,”Tom threw his hands up. “Sorry, it's not your fault,” Tom deflated tossing his arm around his brother. “This is just too much.”

“It's not,”Niri was quick to say. She shifted down to a human form. “Zarro only touches those that can take it. You are either those that are protected, or those that are chosen to protect.”

“But how?” Tom asked looking at the other two page Pegasi still in their natural shape.

“Have you ever been to Israel?” Niri asked. Both Bill and Tom nodded. “That was when Soofu A saw you, that was when he spoke to our king. They arranged to have your schedules coincide.”

“The cookie was a trap?” Bill thought back to the delicious morsel he had brought to his mouth.

“No, that was all Ryo,” Niri laughed. “Zarro puts the players on the field,” Niri went back to her true form seeming to gleam brighter than the snow outside. “It is rare that he is disappointed. Just trust in the faith that he has in you.”

“But how does he have faith in us?”Bill asked with a frown. He was not getting on that thing without some reassurance. “He does not know us.”

“He knows you,” A calm voice spoke. Bill turned to the third creature that had yet to speak. “I am Altan, I will serve as your guard. I am Squire to the Sir Hiten. He is cousin to his highness Ryo. I believe he will wed the lady Alicia after her child is old enough to shift forms. Until then she is off limits and Ryo will defend her to the death. Quite by natural instincts. I love this land.” Altan's heavy turquoise eyes fell on Bill. “Now shall we depart? It is quite rude to keep a king waiting.” Altan waited to see what the pretty young man would decide. Bill sighed, they were already waist deep in this mess, may as well go all the way in.

“Need a hand,” Laton extended a large golden claw. Tom was quick to help his brother up continuing his evasion of the massive crimson dragon.

“Do you know you are scary looking?” Tom asked Laton.

“Who? Me?” Laton offered a wide grin his shining teeth like swords in his mouth. His two golden horns were pointing upward in salute to the sky. “Get on the horse.”

“We are not horses,” Alton grumbled while Tom offered his brother a hand up on the large equines. “Your Majesty.” The last was added with an indignant sniff. “You know that.”

“You're not a knight yet,”Laton blew a puff of smoke in the creature's direction. Altan smiled at the dragon their banter, a long standing tradition, relaxing him as he prepared to stand before his king and swear the fealty that his father had spoken before him. “Just be warned young ones,” Laton raised his wings in preparation for flight. “Do not try to guide them. They know the way to the palace. The reins are just for you to feel secure and hold on.” Bill sat atop the grand creature. He bit back a scream as the pure white beast leaped into the air.

Break

Rain looked in the mirror one last time. His coronet shone bright in the light from the open window. The sun poured down on the snow brightening the world outside as surely as Julie brightened his heart. He had been told that the ceremony would begin right after breakfast. Rain hoped that everything would work out alright for Bill and Tom. He would feel horrible if they were harmed, it was his fault that they were here in the first place.

Break

Julie looked again at the instructions that she had been given last night to go over. Ryan had stayed up with her practicing the lines that she was to say. Of course he was concerned, hoping she understood that these seemed like a pledge. Of course she knew. It was why her parents had to sign so many documents before she could leave. But this was it, this is what she wanted. This world was calling to something deep inside of her and she could not ignore it. Was it the world? She wondered as she secured the sash of her outfit that Niri had dressed her in before hurrying off to another mission that she had been given. Was this world calling so strongly to her, or was it her heart?

There on her nightstand was a framed picture of herself in Rain's arms. He stood behind her and the smile on his face was priceless. Whatever the reason the world was working into her, she did not care. She would be happy from now on. Her past was just that. Her past, a memory that was not worth the time it took to think about. When Rain knocked on her door, Julie was ready.

Break

Niri came to a halt at the pavilion of the king's private quarters. Zarro, in his minuscule human form, reclined on a lounge eating from a small bowl of deep purple berries that could almost be mistaken for grapes. “Allow me to welcome you again to my kingdom,” Zarro's smooth voice traveled the room reaching the two young men. “I would like to introduce you to a very old friend of mine.” Zarro got to his feet. Bill sighed to collect his thoughts. He was here in a magical world and the king was not wearing shoes. The king never wore shoes, even with the snow piled up to their calves, he refused to be shod. His natural form found shoes to be alien and in this one they felt odd. “It is not natural to not hear the heartbeat of the land. It pulses the life of my subjects. Why put something between that?” Tom raised his brows at the odd words wondering if the king truly was mad.

“Mad?” A new voice was heard. “Oh no. Rude?... Yes. I have told you time and again old man,” The newcomer frowned at Zarro. “ Not to read others minds without their permission.”Bill was moved aside by a gentle hand on his arm. He saw a taller man with dark brown eyes and sable hair. His elaborate robe fell about him with jewels gleaming along the sash.

“But if I asked he would say no,”Zarro chuckled. “Bring in their friends and Ad...A,” Zarro caught himself before he could call his friend by name. “Soofu A,” Zarro treated his friend to a cheeky grin. “You must relax, this world is headed to a great change. A great one, I can feel it. It is not to us old ones that the future will fall. You told me that yourself.”

“So I did,” Soofu A huffed. He sat down at a table across from Zarro. He was just lifting his cup to his lips when Georg, with his hair pulled back into a ponytail and Gustav wearing a baseball cap were escorted into the room by a palace aid. Both young men walked as if in shock. Soofu A placed a large, sugared fruit tart in his mouth closing his eyes with glee. “Great, just great.” He sipped his tea.

“-Hey guys,-” Bill waved his friends over. “-How are you holding up?-”

“-How?-” Georg asked his eyes wide. “-I was sniffed this morning when I left the hotel. How come we left the hotel this morning and are here now less than fifteen minutes later? Why does he not wear shoes? And why is that woman licking her hand?-” Bill and Tom turned to see where Georg was pointing and saw a young woman licking her hand and passing it over her face.

“-Please,-” Zarro addressed the boys in their native tongue. “-Excuse my daughter, she is not yet used to her human form. Lyshia,-” Zarro spoke to the young princess. Looking at her father she beamed a bright smile then dropped down to the form a white feline. She rubbed her body along Zarro's legs before scampering off into the halls. “- This is the first week that she has tried it.-”

“-Really?-” Soofu A said with a nod. “-She's already got the hang of it.-”

“-Did that cute girl just turn into a little white cat?-” Gustav asked his voice calm despite the turmoil he could feel building inside of him.

“-You should see the father,-” Bill nodded with his arms folded. “-He turns into a big white cat.-”

“-No, no, no,” Zarro shook his head with a good natured laugh. “-You have it wrong.-”

“-Wrong?” Tom raised a brow sure now that the king was indeed mad. He had clearly seen him turn into a big white lion with wings several times.

“-Yes wrong,” Zarro nodded. “-I am a cat that turns into a human.-”

“Semantics,” Soofu A frowned at the king as he went back to speaking English.

“Semitic,” Zarro pointed to Soofu A.

Soofu A blinked several times as he stared at Zarro. The king smiled then popped a few more berries into his mouth. “When I first saw you boys, something inside of me was moved. Not to mention the reaction you received from the many fans that came to see you. So I said to myself, how can I arrange this? I called Zarro, he worked with Daphnus who called his agent, then you guys were in the same arena at the same time. That is all we did. Then we wanted more. While one spot is good, two is better. With Bill and Tom we get two for one,” Soofu A paused to laugh. “But when more gather, like adding the rest of your band, it makes it even more good. Will you be a light for your country?”

“A light?” Georg asked. After seeing the calm that Bill and Tom displayed.

“Just exist, as you are,” Zarro said when Soofu A began to eat from his bowl. Georg backed away when Zarro moved closer to him than he was comfortable with. But if he was a cat, it was no wonder that he did not understand the boundaries of personal space. “Change nothing, just be aware of the world of Arcadia, welcome us and protect our secret. If an Arcadian is in your land you make them welcome. That is all you need to do.”

“I noticed,” Tom said when Bill accepted a berry from Soofu A. “That most of your contacts are musicians. Why?”

“Music is universal,” Zarro said with a smile. “Soothe the savage beast and all that. No matter the language, no matter the country, music is a phenomenon that can unite the people. I believe that one day, music will unite the world.”

“I hope so,” Bill smiled. He popped the berry into his mouth and spit it back out when his teeth stung at the sweetness. He spent most of his days eating candy, but this was sweeter than anything that he had ever tasted. “What is that?” Bill asked drinking the water that Soofu A offered him.

“Maisia,” Zarro said with a grin. “Come now, there is more human food available, let's leave that to Kami, he practically bleeds the stuff.” Zarro left the room laughing with the four boys even though a berry bounced off of his head. “Soofu A, such childish behavior is not becoming of the first born.” Another berry and the door shut behind them with a click.

Break

Bill sat at the table with a smile on his face. It turned into a grimace as he saw that Count D was dribbling syrup that looked as if it were made of the same berry that he had tasted in the king's private room. He looked away nearly leaping to his feet at the white clad figure that stood directly behind Tom's chair. She tucked her bottom lip between her teeth as if deciding to make her presence known. She nodded for a moment, then shook her head. “Heaven,” Bill spoke up when she turned to leave. “Tom saved you a seat.”

Tom turned around his smile wide as he reached out a hand to Heaven. Heaven's eyes widened as she saw the single white Tahitian orchid in his hand. Small veins of deep maroon ran along the bloom offering a sweet smell. Tom stood up to hold out the empty chair. Heaven accepted his hand wondering at the accelerated beating of her heart. Tom leaned in and placed the flower behind her ear leaning in close he allowed his lip to hover near her cheek before backing away with just the barest contact. Heaven sat still staring up at Tom. This was not right. It couldn't be. Tom leaned in again and Heaven stared into his soft brown eyes. “Oh... no,” Heaven got to her feet. “I can't,” Heaven backed away from his hand tears filling her eyes. “I can't do this.” Heaven dashed from the dining hall before Tom could notice that the tears she shed was a viscous trail of crimson.

Tom sighed before he went back to his seat. “The lady Heaven has never had to deal with the issues that you bring to her.” Lady Aurora took the seat he left out. Tom gazed at the pale beauty in the dark red dress with black satin trim. Her eye were looking into him. “Do you really find her so fascinating? Or are you merely after a fun diversion? It would not bode well to hurt her in such a way.”

“I don't want to hurt her,” Tom was quick to say. “I want to get to know her.”

“Who upset Heaven?” Vlad stepped up to the table licking a red drop from his hand. “She hurried by so fast that she splashed me.” Vlad's eyes went to Tom their green depths seeming to see through him. “Oh dear, I guess she really is just a girl.” Tom frowned at Vlad then grew quiet as horns blared and all gathered at the table rose to their feet. Looking around Gustav saw a young man with fluffy black and deep purple eyes. He blinked several times.

“Hi,” The young man turned around. “I am Chihaya.”

“Chi-ha-ya,” Gustav said the name slowly to get the feel of the foreign name.

“Yes, I am a positive of Eden.” Chihaya nodded with much enthusiasm. “This is my partner Kagetsuya. We got here this morning for the squiring. We will stay all week to wait for them. Each group of Squires is given a different mission. Each mission is meant to access their strengths and train through weakness. They will be ready to serve their knights and thus the king. I heard that Nari, Jhaymes squire was with Lady Tawna.” Bill looked over when he heard the familiar name. “All from that bunch went on to great things. Much is expected from them.” Chihaya looked over at the group of young men and women marching in. They shone in the sunlight with their youth and excitement. Walking behind the younger group were the older squires ready to become knights their armor shining. Behind them, the knights they served.

“Wow,” Georg's eyes grew round when Zarro stood waiting for the procession to reach him. He inhaled deeply just as he exhaled, he expanded into a large white lion. The group halted their progress. Holding on to Rain's arm, Julie executed the curtsy that she had mastered along with Carol. They had been told by the princesses that they would remain at the palace learning the ways of the ladies.

“Prospective knights, step forward.” Buffy looked up to see Faith walking beside Altan and several other young men and women. Zarro bared his teeth in a ferocious smile. “You have proved yourself. Either in training,” He looked to Altan. “Or in service.” Zarro passed a light paw over Faith's hair. “Display arms.” Faith trembled a bit in awe as she unsheathed the sword that Andy had given her. Buffy looked on her smile soft as her heart settled. This place was where Faith belonged, just as she belonged in her home. Yes, she knew, it was time to go back. Time to face her humanity. She was not immortal, or nearly so as these people were. Before he began the recitation, Zarro handed Faith a small silver vial. George cringed thinking back to his own taste of the seraphim tears.

“Faith,” She accepted the vial. “Welcome to these lands. I thank you for your service.” Faith removed the cap of the small bottle. Amidst applause, she drank the liquid inside shivering only a little at the rush of power through her veins. “The rest of you, natural born with the blood of legends in your veins.” Zarro stepped aside for several people that were standing behind his wings. Faith gasped to see Jack among them holding a garland of roses. Mihnea smiled thinking of his own knighting. His father had been so proud. Jack dropped the rose garland onto Faith's head just as the others were given their crowns. Faith sat her sword at the feet of the king next to the other weapons pledged to service in his honor. “It is not my honor you will serve,” Zarro intoned pulling his own shining blade. “Nor my pleasure.”

Victoria offered a serene smile as her husband continued. “You will serve as a barrier between the humans that are so loved by our true king and the demons that wish to steal them. There is no mercy intended for those who serve the darkness. There is no shadow that will be allowed to stand. You are the candle in the dark the vanquisher of evil.” Zarro tapped each shoulder with his blade. “Stand now as knights of Arcadia.” Faith stood next to the king her heart beating wild as the crowd applauded. “Now, you may take your seats and break your fast. I will now address the Pages.”

Rain stood next to Bikky his entire body shaking as a sapling moved by the coming of a storm. Bikky smoothed a hand over his arm. “You are to have your breakfast now,” Zarro intoned shifting down to his human form. “For sure you are famished. Seat your ladies and yourselves,” Zarro addressed the young women among the pages. “The Dragon court has prepared some entertainment.” Zarro went to his seat followed by the pages. Julie sat in the chair that Rain held for her while Bikky seated Carol near Bill, Tom, Gustav and Georg.

“You guys looked great walking in with the knights and squires,” Bill said. Tom looked around when he saw a glimpse of white. Heaven stood in the massive doorway of the hall. Tom made as if to stand but Lady Aurora, sitting next to her husband and Lord D, reached across Bill and placed a hand on his arm. For all her seeming frailty, Tom could not move.

“You are famished,” Lady Aurora smiled showing fangs that chilled Tom to the marrow of his bones. “You will need your strength. Eat. Enjoy the show. It is very rare that we get to see the fire dancer.”

“Fire dancer?” Bikky gasped in shock and joy. “Rain, Ryo's dancing,” Rain dropped his fork so fast did he turn to see blinds dropping over the large windows shrouding the room in darkness.

“Ryo? Your dad?” Bill smiled looking over to see the Crowd turning in their chairs. Heaven took a few steps into the room. Vlad beckoned her over. Heaven shook her head. As she saw the flower near Tom where he had left it. She could not get near him. He caused chaos inside of her. Vlad summoned her again with a stern look and she knew she must not dare defy the prince. Heaven walked over her head high. Tom smiled at her hoping not to upset her again. Bill looked on smiling as she sat beside his brother.

Gustav had wondered at the empty chair next to Tom. He was not surprised that Tom had already begun to flirt with a lady here. It was just his way. He hoped that things would go well. This kingdom was beyond anything they had ever encountered. First things first, Gustav focused as the crowd began to exclaim in awe as they stared up at the ceiling. Ryo was being lowered on what appeared to be a length of deep red satin. His ensemble flowed about him in waves of black, gold and silver with a red sheath visible underneath. His hair was loose about him with a simple coronet to denote his royalty. While in the air music began to thrum through the hall with a soft beat and heavy base that seemed to move the audience even as it moved Ryo. As soon as his feet touched the marble floor flames encircled him. Ryo began to dance among the flames.

“Will he burn?” Tom asked watching the graceful movements across the floor. At one point it seemed as if the flames were alive. Then he saw that it was a group of younger people in red standing inside the dancing flames moving their arms wearing flowing red garb. “He is beautiful.”

“Like a flame himself,” Heaven nodded when Ryo spun with his arms high. Dee smiled at the inherent sensuality of the man, no, the dragon, in the heat of the fire. Ryo danced from the inside out feeling Torcha's flames become a part of him. He was the physical embodiment of the will of the fire. “He has no training as a dancer, that is all what is inside of his blood.”

“Why is it always the blood?” Buffy muttered patting Dawn's hand. It was something that she had asked before. And it was Spike who had given her the answer. The life was in the blood. It was always the blood. The flames died and Ryo lowered into a bow shocked at just how much he had come to be used to his body moving on its own in response to fire and music. Was his mother truly so great as to leave such a legacy in the veins of a halfling? Laton's smile was answer enough as he went to his seat with his family and friends. The applause caused his face to heat and Ryo hid behind Dee throughout breakfast coming out only to greet and congratulate his sons.

Breakfast was a boisterous affair with talking, laughing and jokes. It was more like a family gathering than an affair of state. A hush fell over the crowd as a large cake was rolled out on a crystal and gold cart with candles. Zarro laughed aloud at the shocked expression that came over Rain's face. Zarro stood and waved his hands. “Happy birthday to you, happy birthday to you, happy birthday dear Rain, happy birthday to you.” Rain stood to blow the candles out. Julie leaned over to kiss his cheek. He tune his face to capture her lips. Ryan applauded along with the rest of the group gathered at the breakfast table.

“How old are you?” Bill asked when he was served a slice of the cake.

“Sixteen,” Rain licked his fingers. Bill looked at his plate then at Tom's he saw that his brother had a candy rose and reached for it. At first Tom moved his plate away, but after a moment he took his butter knife and scraped it off. Bill beamed a wide smile as Tom placed the rose on his slice of cake. Gustav shook his head looking away from the twins. “My presents,” Rain held his hands out for the boxes that were wrapped in bright colors with ribbons. “Oh,” Rain laughed when he opened the package from George. Inside was a long black coat with bright silver buckles and two belts one of them a length of chain. Julie laughed seeing th card. On it was a picture of him holding her and a chain. The words, “Now you will always have what you need.”

“Open mine,” Bikky pushed Dee aside with a grin. Rain opened the package to see pearl handed daggers inside. Dee then gave Rain a pile of gifts that he opened up. When he was done he had a new jewel encrusted journal, a framed photo of him as he was now with his mother smiling down on him. Rain wiped a tear from his eye as he looked at her beloved face. She seemed to have a halo of light around her. Bikky gave him a handkerchief. Next were several pieces of jewelry, all in silver and onyx. Julie gave Rain a silver round locket that she had saved three months worth of her allowance to buy for him. In the locket was a picture of herself on one side and him on the other. Rain was laughing as he moved his hair aside so that she could close the clasp. More presents followed with much laughter and joy. Georg looked around the grand hall. Half of it was done in white marble with gold and tan panels along the wall showing tapestries and painting. The other half seemed to be made of black stone as if carved from a mountain.

“You are a very observant young man,” Zarro said once the plates were mostly cleaned. “This hall is a merging of my Arcadian palace and the Obsidian palace.” Zarro got to his feet. As the youngest pages cleared away the dishes. Chris took Bill's plate leaving him a warm, wet cloth to clean his hands. Niri removed Julie and Carol's plate leaving a scented, warm cloth. “Now that you have all had your breakfast, it is time to sever the ties to the two palaces.”

“Pages up,” Laton said standing next to his king. Rain, Bikky, a unicorn, three Pegasus and two humans of Arcadian towns stood. George sat near Jhaymes sulking. He had always been told about his big mouth, now he lamented it. Last night Zarro had summoned Jhaymes and George had pitched a fit about it. Jhaymes was supposed to be off duty. Where he went, so would George. Now it was that he was expected to go on this little expedition with his knight. He had not expected Zarro to agree. “Dumpling don't pout so,” Zarro addressed him. “You may have fun yet.”

“Do not tease your majesty,” Said George before he looked away. “The pages are unaware of their trial.”

“First off,” Zarro said with a grin. “Prince Ryo and Consort Dee, please stand.” Ryo and Dee stood wondering what they would have to endure so that their sons could be inducted as Arcadian squires. “You are henceforth banished to Mysticale for the duration of your son's trial.”

“Banished?” Ryo and Dee said the same time that Bikky and Rain did.

“You can't do that!” Rain protested.

“I am king of these lands,” Zarro smiled. “If I want to send my subjects on vacation I can.” Zarro picked up a sausage that had been left on the table and passed it under to his daughter who had sat the entire meal purring at his feet. “You two make yourselves at home and enjoy your stay. You have more than earned it.” Zarro smiled thinking of the pleasure island floating home of the unicorns and Pegasus. It floated around Arcadia staying always tropical. “Humans have a similar environment on earth. I think it is called...” Zarro paused his finger on his chin as he thought of the place he had seen on maps and in books. “Hawai'i.”

“Vacation,” Ryo smiled a little less concerned.

“The pages will escort you to your waiting carriage. Count D and Leon, your children will be in the care of Laton and Torcha for the duration. Count D stood near tears as Kurayami whimpered. He had volunteered for this because his father was heavy with child and Sofu seemed ill. He had thought that he could bring his children with him but as quickly informed otherwise. It was too much for the boys to handle. “You Squires,” Zarro said to the group calling them by their new title. “Are responsible for escorting your charges, keeping them safe and comfortable all the way from the Obsidian Palace to the Arcadian Palace. There will be challenges along the way.”

“Yes sir,” Bikky nodded standing at attention as he addressed the king making Ryo more proud than he thought he could stand.

“Now for the rules,” Zarro smiled. “Bill, Tom, Georg and Gustav please stand as well.” Zarro waited for the young men. “You will act as their precious cargo. You may partake in the challenges if you so choose. Mostly, I want you to tour this land and see the world you have accepted. You will have everything you need, camping gear and supplies. Rain, you have three days only to share a tent with Bikky. But each night you must all double. Bill, Tom the same goes to you. Soofu A has brought a concern to my attention and I must address it.”

“What concern?” Dee demanded seeing the horrified look on Rain's face at the thought of being in a tent with someone other than Bikky.

“Your son has a weakness that can and will be exploited by an enemy,” Soofu A walked to the table with a smile on his face. “And you,” He pointed to Bill. “Have the same problem that my Nephew suffers from.” Sofu D glowered at his brother who noticed him insisting that Lord D drink Mirandia milk sweetened with Maisia juice. “You are spoiled. And he did it,” Soofu A looked to Tom. “Can I ask? Do you tuck him in at night?” Tom made a rude noise with his mouth and rolled his eyes at Soofu A while Bill was wide eyed and pale. Gustav chuckled to have a king of a foreign land point out what he had known for years. Anything from a piece of candy to a microphone; if Tom had it and Bill wanted it, Bill got it. Tom gasped realizing that the king was serious. He would really have to leave his brother to the care of someone else. Weakness? Tom took a moment to wonder what had been meant about Rain. The other boy seemed to pale looking at the band then at the other squires.

Only three nights, Rain thought his mind going over all entailed on this journey. Cooking cleaning, he could handle that. But the dressing and the bathing would be mostly in the tent, they could heat the tents, but not outside. He knew they would not leave him with a girl, so... a boy. He had to share a tent with a boy. Some boy he was not comfortable with or even, he looked at Georg and Gustav. They were older than Tom and Bill, so they wanted him to room with a man. “Don't panic,” Rain turned to see Bikky with his hand on his arm. “I am sure you won't lose points for kicking their butts if they come on to you, but the last I heard they were all into girls... even Bill.”

“What's that supposed to mean?” Bill frowned looking at Bikky. Rain smirked looking at the other young man.

“Nothing,” Bikky was quick to say. He shook his head laughing a bit at the 'spoiled' young man. He had wondered about some of his antics, but now he knew what to look for and it was true. Where he took care of Rain and assured he was healthy and happy, Bill catered to his brother.

“Tom's baby,” Gustav laughed shaking his head. “Mom should have had more siblings I think.”

“No,” Jhaymes said with a sigh. “Because there is a deeper connection with twins. Even Alera and I feel it. It is deeper, I think, for you two. Like Amalthea and Althea. You are not completely separate. Part of you in you and vice versa. And the younger is like... you get ill more so than he, yes?” Bill nodded when Jhaymes addressed him. “Do you fight?”

“What, no,” Bill denied. “Tom and I fight, and sometimes the band argues but we make up.”

“I mean do you fight others, like in school, skirmishes?” Jhaymes asked ignoring Soofu A's smirk. At the door the Kami's were bidding a tearful farewell. Kurayami's screams punctuated the silence when Bill shook his head. “Your big brother defends and protects you.” Bill nodded noting that he had moved until he was closer to Tom.

“There you have it,” Zarro moved away from the table. “Go to your rooms and change, when you emerge this palace door will be closed and you will embark on your journey. Ladies,” Zarro held out a hand. “They will be waiting for your return. Ryan, brother of Julie, you will go with the Squires, that is all.” Ryan sat in shock as his sister was taken from the room. He was left with the rock band, and the squires, all sitting in some degree of disbelief.

“I guess we'd better go change.” Rain spoke when the hall was emptied of all guest except for Ryo and Dee Rain held Ryo in a tight hug. “You guys have fun okay,” Rain nodded his head trying so hard to be brave. Lyo had been delighted to be left with Laton and Torcha for the week. His mother was also there to pamper him, so though he would miss Ryo and Dee, he would be alright.

“I'll look out for him,” Bikky promised despite Zarro's caution. “We'll see you.” Bikky hugged Ryo and Dee. “You looked awesome out there.” Bikky said laughing when Ryo blushed. George sat with his arms folded as Nari stood waiting to carry his bags. As Jhaymes squire he was coming along. They had to have actual knights there just in case, so Jhaymes, Leon and Mihnea had been selected. For medical assistance they had Count D. “We have a strong group and these guys don't seem totally helpless.” Bikky almost rescinded the words when he saw Bill moving his hair back over his shoulder. “We'll make it.” Bikky tried to convince himself. “And we'll get out shields.” Dee looked at his son his heart full. Bikky waved a few more times as the rest of their group said their farewells. Georg and Gustav went with the small band not sure what they had agreed to. One step into this world was like a fall into complete and utter madness.

To-Be-Continued

Author's notes: So thats it, they are squires... You don't think it's that easy do you? So they have the title, but not the badge and privilege. That will come when they make it to the other side of Arcadia, then the real party will begin. I do not have any claim to Tokio Hotel or any of their members. I do not make any profit from this work of fiction. I hope you are enjoying this journey into the annals of my insanity. Oh yeah, it is winter in Arcadia. Happy Birthday Rain! They have to keep them safe, warm and fed the entire way. If you would like to see the path or the places they will visit you are welcome to visit my website for an uploaded map of Arcadia. The next chapter will be all about the journey and the party. Thank you all for staying with us during this series. I am glad to know that it is liked.

Ja ne

Chi