The Lost

The Lost
Chapter 6: The Heart of a Sentinel

Raoul slept in a blanket of warmth. He felt embraced by the comfort of a beating heart, but who held him tight, as he slept? It did not matter, there was no fight, no death-dealing bursts of energy from his soul, just the coolness of the night, and the twin moons to watch over them. Sentinels from the creators of the universe. Sentinel's like him. The day had been filled with bloodshed and the fight to “survive the day.” The trenches dug deep, as Elder and Intellect fought for the patch of ground no one was willing to sacrifice. Their madness would drive the scarlet haired Elders to push forward, to over run, to dominate, to destroy. They were not all mad, some knew their freedom from the constraints of Elder rule was the stone that tilted the scales in their favor, so they gave in to the voice that whispered in their minds.

“Fight, kill, and feel no remorse. Kill them all, and rule the world. It matters not what we have to do in order to obtain it, nor can anyone lift a hand against us. We will rule the stars.”

Raoul pressed his boot against the throat of Elder Ormand. He was no older than Raoul, and he in fact knew the man as an old acquaintance. An old friend. The madness released in the wake of young Elder Eric's plot to make his Clan the dominate branch, would now become an unstoppable force in his death.

“I knew you once Elder Ormand. We broke bread between us, and drank a bottle of wine from Lord Kai's private vintage. Why do you lead these animals, when you were not affected? It is a shame you and your mindless bastards must now die.”

“Are you sure you have it in you Raoul? The blood cursing through your veins is Intellect, and noble. You would not kill, less you become soiled as I. Is it really so bad? They were unworthy of a Lord such as you...children rarely noticed underfoot. Little mongrels, dark haired spawns of a less than noble root. Specs of dust to be nothing less than a point of sexual release for men such as you and I.”

Raoul pressed the heel of his boot deeper into the gagging Elder, as his words stabbed at the heart of Raoul. “Even an animal will not rape his kin, and certainly not one of it's own pack. Yet that is what you did. The bowels of hell will love bastards like you.” Raoul hissed. “ However, I will make it hard for the Gods of the underworld to find the pieces!”

Raoul used his power to fling the Elder he held by the throat in his right hand. His head would be crushed against the wall, and set off the enraged Intellect with no end in sight. His death.....felt good. Raoul took the Elder in his left hand and before Elder Ormand's eyes, ripped his head off, and tossed him against the Elder making his way towards him. The Elder dodged the body, and pressed his power against Raoul's mind. But it would bounce off without any effort. Like water off a ducks back. No, his mind was locked away, and only his rage would move the body that only a few hours earlier, shook with the despair, and clutched the lifeless remains of his young lover.

Raoul held his hand against the rushing Elder, and as he closed his grip, the Elder buckled and fell to the ground. He squirmed and screamed, but Raoul's eyes only glared at the man, as he opened his grip and released the Elder. The driven man continued his attempts to bring Raoul down, though his body was broken.

“Like the animal you are Elder Ormand, I shall skin you alive, and lay your carcass out to dry, as only one such as you deserves.” Raoul's voice was low, and deliberate. “But just as you murdered the innocent and blameless, I shall exert justice for all that is sacred, for all that was pure. And in their stead will I end you.”

Elder Ormand struggled against Raoul's powers, as one after another, he witnessed his men torn to shreds, and tossed all around the room. Their screams echoed loudly in the emptiness of the grand hall of the destroyed Estate. Raoul's body glowed, and his blood stained face was without emotion. Elder Ormand tried with all his might to push Raoul off his body, but like a howling storm, he would not yield.

“You will forever remember me Raoul, as the one who took what you treasured.” Ormand struggled to breathe, yet he would not stop, knowing his end was near. “Yes, I knew he was yours. He tasted sweet as honey, and moaned with ecstasy impaled upon my cock.” Ormand laughed, as Raoul's green eyes, locked onto his own.

Raoul laughed down at Ormand. It was a deep, and foreboding laugh. One Ormand would regret ever hearing. “You will not be laughing when I am through with you. So sit tight, while I cleanse the world of your filth.”

Raoul maintained his hold on Ormand. The struggling Elder could not move an inch, as Raoul held him with a surge of energy flat on the floor. The sounds of screams continued as one after another, the Elders ran into the grand hall in attempts to free Ormand. Some were mindless drones, who could only see an Intellect attacking a fellow Elder, yet other's were quite sane. But to Raoul, it made no difference.

The madness that blinded him, came from the images of his beloved, hung on a stake, mutilated, and noticeably raped. And he would hold on to those images, as Raoul gripped them with his power, and flung them up in the air, tearing them apart. As body parts rained around Ormand, the reality of Raoul's rage was now becoming painfully clear.

And no sooner had the last Elder been dispatched, did Raoul pull Ormand by the hair, kicking and screaming outside. The horrified faces of his men, was mirrored by Omaki, Yousi and Argent, who watched as Raoul tossed the screaming man up into the air, and held him suspended upon nothing but the power of his energy. His blood-tainted hair whipped about angrily, as the static of his power was felt in the air around them. His men dared not move, and now watched over their perimeter for the enemy.

Yousi trembled, as he listened to Raoul speak to the suspended Ormand.

“You will know suffering, as I know suffering. You will feel your flesh torn from your body, as you tore it from theirs You will feel the muscles tear off your limbs, and yes, you will feel every nerve of your body scream...as the innocent screamed. As my Yui screamed!”

With that Raoul tossed Ormand up in the air, and before the Elder could wield his power, Raoul sent a bolt of energy, and nearly skinned the Elder whole. As his screams reached Raoul's ears, he once again struck the falling Ormand with yet another strike against his body, and his flesh began to tear off from his limbs.

“You will see your end Elder! As my beloved, saw your final blow come to his body!!”

Raoul sent his final strike with both hands, as Elder Ormand's body was torn from his limbs, and finally fell to the ground in smoldering heaps of flesh.

Raoul fell to his knees, and sobbed his anguish. He struck the ground repeatedly with his inner power, as his heart would find no peace. His men stood some distance away, until Raoul's body stopped glowing, and returned to normal. As his power faded, he collapsed within the crater he blasted beneath his feet. With the darkness of his mind shutting him down, Raoul lost unconsciousness, his body drained of energy.

By nightfall, Lord Kai had reached their position. Raoul's men had sent word to the Warrior Lord. They explained the day's events, and what had occurred. Kai walked into the Estate, wanting to see for himself what had taken place. It was a horrifying scene, one that Kai would never forget. He instructed the men to burn the Estate to the ground, and swore them to silence.

“I will place this child's mind in a deep sleep. He will not recall what has occurred, as long as I hold the key to the seal of his mind. He will become my Sentinel at Arms, and he shall be protected. My orders are without expiration, and only I or my heir, possess the power to awaken his grieving mind, and heal his broken heart.”

Kai kneeled before Raoul, then touching his head with his hands, he closed his eyes, and spoke his seal.

“Sleep, my young Lord...find peace, son of Rene. Raoul, your father now stands guard over your heart. The image and identity of your young lover will remain hidden, until the stars are aligned, and my heir has returned. His image is now within you, should you awaken, he shall give you peace in my stead.”

Kai looked at Yousi, Argent and Omaki. The three huddled together near an open fire. Kai approached them and spoke.

“I can place the same mind block in your memory should you want it. I can't say that I will live long enough to remove it, but you can live without the memory of this tragedy. War is hell...” Kai paused. “But Lord Am will not be damned to relive this in his mind forever. I was informed by his men about the young man Lord Am was in love with. I'm told this young man had saved many children in the Northern Territories. Their deaths will only compounds his despair. He will be my shadow, and I shall keep his secret hidden. May the Gods keep watch over his soul.”

Omaki looked at the tall Lord, and spoke. “Yes my Lord. Master Yui Fai was a savior to the young victims of this region, when we stumbled upon them. He had organized a band of young Warriors to watch over the orphans, “the lost ,” he called them. Lord Raoul was supplying him with food for the children, and medicine for the injured.” Omaki spoke, as he looked at his hand held archive.

“He had also placed the young children under his protection. Moved them secretly from location to location, until he found a safe village for them.” Argent added, as his voice trembled.

“Well, I will take the burden off him, and keep him under my protection. He has need for a change of venue. He recently lost his father, my Sentinel at Arms, Rene Am. I knew Raoul would be stepping into his father's shoes. It will now take place ahead of schedule.” Kai spoke to the three, as they watched Raoul sleep near the fire.

“Lord Rene is lost?” Argent whispered, as he looked at Omaki. “My Lord, we have correspondence from his daughter, Monique.”

“It was sudden, and without warning, but yes, he has passed.” Omaki observed a noticeably new wound on Lord Kai's shoulder.

“My Lord, pardon my asking, but is that wound related to Lord Rene's death? I recall that in our last meeting, you were not so wounded.” Yousi nodded, in agreement.

“I seem to be collecting an assortment of wounds lately, but yes, Lord Rene placed himself between an assassin's sword, and me. I was wounded by the tip of the blade that pierced my Sentinel. Lord Raoul was notified only a few days ago. But enough of that, I will take the correspondence, and hold it until he has adjusted to his new post. He was dealt a heavy blow with his father's death, so it may be best to hold off on that.”

“My Lord, what will happen when Lord Am awakens from his sleep?” Yousi asked. “Is it possible that he may recall on his own?”

“The only one capable of breaking my seal is my heir. My family is from a line of Warriors who possessed empathic abilities. But only my son showed clear signs of possessing it at his core. However, Prince Riki is unaccounted for. I can only presume he is dead. No one has heard from him, nor has anyone seen his ship arrive from space. He is the only one with the capability to reach Raoul's mind, as deep as I've placed this mind block.

The other was our fair Queen, but as you know she was one of the first victims of this pestilence that permeates our world. No, this son of Amoi will slumber for eternity should he live that long. If the Gods are merciful, they will give him a Warrior's death. An Intellect of his caliber is worthy of this. Just as his father proved he had Warrior blood in his veins, this Intellect will now shadow me in his father's stead.”

The three thought about this. They had witnessed the worst that war could bring, and the raw brutality it leaves in its wake. For three men who collected the last echoes of life in a specimen tube, Raoul's rampage would never be forgotten. For they would have done the same.

“Then our answer is no- my Lord.” Omaki spoke. “We will keep an accounting of his suffering. We feel partially responsible in this tragedy, as we brought Master Yui's deeds to his attention. So his loss- is our loss. We may tally the dead, but the remains of these men -like all Elders- will never find a place among our archives. So please let us remember Raoul's grieving heart. One day, when our Lord Heirs return, we shall all recall Lord Am's justice on this day- with honor.”

As Omaki spoke this, the men all nodded their heads in agreement.

“Very well. I do not envy your tasks, but will respect your choice. I don't have the luxury of forgetting what I've seen, but I will hold you all to your vow of silence. Raoul will be able to move forward as he shadows me, until the end or our lives. If I see you three again, I hope it will be under better circumstances.”

The three bowed, as Lord Kai walked back to where Raoul was being watched. The men had gently washed all the blood off his body, and dressed him in one of Lord Kai's spare uniforms. It would become his uniform from there on out. Lord Kai had his men pick him up and place him in his shuttle. That would be the last time the three would see of Raoul for some time.

“Looks like we'll have to go collect Lord Rene's specimen.” Omaki sighed. “Damn it all to hell!”

“Well, look at the bright side,” Yousi spoke. “At least the whole family will be together on that little green planet.”

“We really need to give it a name you know...” Argent complained. “As keepers of the dead, we should at least honor where they sleep.”

*~*~*

Riki and Iason watched the images of Lord Kai entering his shuttle and flying off with Raoul. Omaki had volunteered his mind so that Riki and Iason could see what they all witnessed, instead of trying to explain it. Kai stood behind Riki's tempest veil, as Yousi, Argent, Raimen, Sir Luis, Heiku and Sir James all watched in silence. Iason closed his eyes, as tears streaked down his face.

Raoul's mind was sealed by Kai, and even survived the birthing of Raoul in the current era. Jupiter's mind block which she placed on all those she birthed, only caused the wall to solidify. She only had the accounts in her matrix by the Warrior and Intellect Lords. True to their vows, they spoke only of the loss of Raoul's lover, omitting the details. The Warrior Lords who left an accounting for Lord Valcor Fai, never revealed the circumstances of his son's death. Only the virtues of his deeds. They sealed his remains, until Jupiter calculated Yui's death to the proximity of Raoul's rampage, and requested them for reanimation.

Riki knew when he placed his sleeping seal over Raoul, that what was hidden behind the wall of his mind, was beginning to break through. Raoul's constant exposure to himself and Iason was bringing to the surface, the horrors of his past. He looked over at Iason who quietly wiped his tears from his eyes, as he watched over Raoul's sleeping body. In his mind, Raoul looked so peaceful, without the memory of losing Yui. Iason was finding it hard to release him of his peaceful slumber.

“Do we have the right to open that floodgate? Will we be able to piece together his heart that was so distraught over his loss?” Iason whispered. He remembered his earlier words that he should be allowed to awaken, and felt now perhaps he spoke too soon.

“Son,” Raimen spoke. “We all have suffered great loss. I may have been out of the picture early in our history, but I lost all of you. I lost Amoi, and my Queen- your mother.” Raimen paused, as he looked down upon Raoul's sleeping form. “But if this wound does not get aired out, I fear Raoul may lose his mind.”

Iason looked shocked as Raimen spoke. Then he looked over at Heiku and Kai.

“Is this possible Heiku? Can Raoul lose his mind over what is stored deep in his memories?”

Iason began to pace the floor, and Riki came up quickly, to stand by Iason who was clearly affected by the news. Iason has known Raoul all his life in the current era, and with the possibility of his mind becoming unhinged, his body trembled with emotion.

“Iason, Raoul has suffered much trauma. His mind was sealed after a horrific event. And it has been safely held in check for two life times.” Raimen tried to comfort his son. “It is being released by the presence of you and Riki in his life. I am not sure there is a better way to help Raoul, other than to deal with it as it unfolds.”

Heiku knew it would be a mess, but not as deep at Lord Kai's. Surely Raoul suffered a psychological break, but Lord Kai held his own for nearly 400 years of war.

“I'll remind you all of the fact that Lord Kai was helped to cope in the real world, only with the love of his family and his friends.”

“And what am I? Chopped liver?” Raimen's attempt to lighten up the conversation fell flat. The intensity of the atmosphere was heavy.

Riki nodded in agreement to Heiku's words. He recalled his father's mind, and the millions of bodies that haunted him relentlessly, up to the moment of his awakening. What he witnessed in Raoul's mind was no less horrific, but it struck Raoul where all men are vulnerable...the heart. His father was allowed to vent his anger at a real enemy over time. Raoul had his break, and then shut down shortly thereafter. He was not afforded the time necessary for him to deal with the death in a constructive way.

“Look son,” Kai soothed. “In terms of strength, Raoul had one of the most powerful minds of his time. His assignment as my Sentinel at Arms, knew no rival, except perhaps his father. He was a strategist elite, and it was because of his mental strength, that I decided to lock out his memory of Yui. When I learned at the Lord's Dance that this “Yui” was his lover in the present, I wondered if he was one and the same. I now see that it is as I feared. But I believe that when these two lovers reconcile their past, they will nurture their own wounds, to heal. As Raimen healed me.”

“Well, I'm glad I was good for something!” Raimen smiled and wrapped his arms around Kai's waist. “Though the bumps on my head by Lady Erin require your healing touch.” Raimen teased.

The group of men continued to deliberate over Raoul's fate. They knew the path back for some Lords would be littered with tragedy, but Raoul was a prominent fixture in the Royal Family.

“Iason, I think we should let Raoul awaken.” Riki spoke. “Remember when we discovered who we were? It was only the thought of knowing you were here with me, that made the hell of our past, tolerable. To learn you were mine, then lost, then nearly killed, made me realize just how precious this second chance is to us both. I think we should give Raoul and Yui that same chance.”

“But Riki...I did not see you torn to shreds, and gang raped.” Iason countered.

“No love, you didn't. But I lived the life of a sex slave, that at first- was a living hell. Then I saw you taken, shared your near fatal injuries, then the anguish of our past lives delivered without the comfort, and reassurance we have given those we've helped to awaken.” Riki took Iason's hand in his. “We can provide Raoul and Yui the best care possible.”

“And if that fails, we can club him over the head, and put him out of his misery again.” Kai grumbled. “There is no skirting the issue son, a decision will have to be made, and soon.”

“Or we could keep him subdued, and have Yui before him when he awakens.” Heiku added.

“Or have Yui in your mind's eye, and allow Raoul to awaken then.” Raimen proposed. “Yui will hold the key to his heart. Though it would be best to give Raoul a more realistic awakening. He held Yui's lifeless body in his arms. I suggest he have a living Yui before him, awaken or not.”

“My Lords.” Argent's quiet voice was heard for the first time. “Yui is being aided by Lady Erin at this time, is this not so? Then I propose that Lord Raoul be allowed to awaken on his own. He has the images of his family before him. He will be dealing with their loss when we reach Le Fidelis. However, he will have HOPE in his heart. His family will be restored to him. Yui would become the next step on the road to his recovery. I believe Lord Heiku would agree, that positive events in his life, will counter the one deepest blow.”

As they all thought about Argent's words, Iason finally came to a decision. He was devastated not so much by his loss of Riki, but by the loss of his love. In the past, Iason felt he was driven by the thought of holding him in his arms. Raoul he believed, would feel the same. He would have his current memories to fall back on, and a real, living and breathing Yui, would go far in healing his heart.

“Then we shall do as Argent suggests, but only under Lord Heiku's watchful eye. As awakened, we can monitor the energy levels he puts out. I know that both Lord Kai and Riki, can shut down his mind should this event prove dangerous to the mission.”

“Or the ship.” Kai added. “Just got this one back, damn it all.” Kai pouted, and gave Yousi a leveled glance, then quickly winked at him and grinned.

“Well Iason and I can maintain a force field around Raoul. Did you two not feel ours around you?” Riki smiled mischievously. Raimen's jaw dropped, as he put two and two together.

“Why you little brats! And here Kai and I believed we were ready to be put to pasture!” Raimen became animated. “We only saw the one light pop and fizzle out, and quite poorly might I add! Kai, what do you have to say about our son's naughty tricks?”

“I'd say thanks for not letting us fuck up the ship!” Kai grinned. “After all, we don't exactly have the gifts of lighting up the stars to announce to everyone were on a secret mission!”

Everyone laughed, seeing that everyone knew exactly what Iason and Riki had been up to that morning. Iason blushed, caught off guard by Kai's teasing. Riki grinned, as he countered.

“Hey! I can't be blamed for that! Iason was in the mood for bacon and toast!” Riki continued the break from the seriousness of the matter. “And he even said the juice was sweet!”

“Riki!” Iason finally gave in to the teasing. His face was now a rather flushed with the laughter aimed at the two lovers. “Well, one can't help perfection.” He now said rather calmly, pretending to inspect his manicured nails. He glanced at Riki with a “Wait till I get you later” look.

The group finally agreed, and watched Raoul resting. They would let him wake in the morning, and move from there.

*~*~*

Elder Simon paced the deck of his ship. He lost two men, by what could only have been an Ancient's hand. The three remaining members of his team, were all without injury, however, Lord Bastian's crew did not fare so well. He lost half a dozen men, and his two captives. He examined the bodies of the two fallen Elders, and like Simon, was impressed with the fashion in which they were killed.

“So you want me to believe, that those two were struck by a beam of energy coming out of Jakes hand?” Bastian asked Setsuro, as the doctor's account was supported by his medical assistants. “And you couldn't just shoot them?!” Bastian became animated as Elder Simon looked on.

“My Lord, the two medics were not the issue,” Setsuro spoke in his defense. “There were different voices speaking through the two men during the attack. Their eyes were a different color, and when I attempted to approach Martin, I was tossed against the wall, as if I were nothing!”

“Bastian, there is obviously a Warrior or Intellect working through these men. My men said that a voice identified himself as “Lord Kai Oskuro, Lord of the Warrior Clans of Amoi.” Simon spoke with dramatic flair. “And if he is indeed the Lord Kai Oskuro, Lord Father of the young Prince, Riki Oskuro- then we have a problem.”

Bastian left the medical center, as the medical assistants, worked on their Doctor. He suffered several bruised ribs, and numerous lacerations from broken glass. Bastian stepped rather angrily down the corridor, as he made for the bridge. He needed to see what exactly was on the data crystal, that Elder Simon had brought him. As the two men sat a command console, Bastian looked at the crystal.

“Now tell me again, exactly where did this data crystal come from? It looks rather old, and outdated.”

“This data crystal was the only thing I found sealed in a private box, in the vault of specimens after Mink, and his lover, destroyed the city. They left nothing but what you saw. Dust and ashes.”

Simon recalled the blinding light, and his body being blown out of one of the exits. He and his team had gone out to verify if Commander Darius was telling the truth about the repairs to his ship. It wasn't like they trusted him 100%, but that was the nature of his Clansmen.

“I had heard of a secret plan held by the Council of Elders to avenge the dead.” Simon looked on as Bastian placed the crystal into is ship's computer. “Are you sure you want to do that?” Simon pointed to the crystal.

“Well, this ship is rather old, but the technology is quite capable.” Bastian said matter of fact.

“Well, it is said to be quite old. However, the technology for this particular data crystal is quite out of our league, as it was encrypted by an Ancient.

“How do you know it's encrypted by an Ancient?” Bastian pressed a few keys on the console.

“ Well, as a child these stories grow into fairy tales, and one begins to doubt their accuracy. But upon learning of Lord Kai's return, I remembered the tales I was raised on. As you know our three Clans age slower, and live longer. But I never really believed the claims of this crystal to be from the Ancients.” Simon looked on as Bastian now attempted to access the data crystal. “I wondered if some of this lost technology could be accessed.”

“Well, you've come to the right place. Although I do trade in advance technology, this little gem is quite unique. See this?” Bastian pointed to a symbol at the base. “This is the unmistakable symbol of Jupiter. That is, the Jupiter of Ancient Amoi. Back then, she was known as the Living Text. So you may be correct in stating that it came from the lost civilization.”

Elder Simon looked on in wonder. It was no secret that the Elders coveted Jupiter's technology, and any opportunity to gain from that technology was highly prized. But he wondered if Bastian would have better luck than they had.

“It will take some time to access this data crystal. I have yet to crack her matrix, not that I haven't tried.” Bastian laughed. “I've tried to gain an insider's view through Iason Mink, but have been rebuffed by the Head of the Syndicate on several occasions. My last attempt was on board the Ios. Your leaders dealt poorly with me, and I find their demise by this man rather ironic.”

“Yes, it was their own undoing. I for one, am rather glad the old Elders are gone. They did nothing to further our Clan's power” Simon spoke rather angrily. “You may not know this, as it was not widely talked about. But the City of Elders was not the only colony of Elders in existence.”

Bastian found this news rather shocking. He knew of no other Elder Sect but those on Aristia, and those destroyed on Rhea.

“How can this be? I was told there were no other sects in this region of space.”

“That much is true Lord Bastian.” Simon smiled. It was a rather unsettling expression on his face, as the many scars that criss-crossed his face gave him an eerie appearance. “There are tales of Elder Clans on the other side of 'The Path of the Ancients.' And we long held to the belief that the data existed to locate our lost Clansmen.

“Well, if you had this so-called information, why did you not act on it? It seems rather odd, that your Council held on to this data crystal, and failed to access it.”

“Well, it's not like we have not tried.” Elder Simon touched his lips with his hand. “After all, the Elders have been assassinating Jupiter's Syndicate leaders for centuries. Just when we were within reach of her matrix, some unexpected “event” would thwart our efforts.”

“You Elders seem to have been born under the same dark star as I.” Bastian grumbled. “I have yet to find anyone to account for Lord Iason's miraculous recovery, and his tremendous power. But those answer are now coming to me in ways I did not expect. You being one, and the other was this.”

Bastian played back the gossip channel images of the Royal Family being introduced. When Simon saw this, he sat back in his chair and laughed. Bastian did not know what to make of this, or whether the Elder had lost his mind. Much like himself.

“I find this also extremely ironic on your behalf, Lord Bastian.” Simon pointed to the image of Lord Kai. “See that man with the rather ominous expression on his face? That is Lord Kai Oskuro, and he was the one who battled my ancestors.”

Bastian looked at the images once again. He looked at Raimen and pointed to him.

“And this one introduced as Lord Raimen Mink?”

“Lord Raimen Mink was the one who maintained Jupiter's earlier versions. But, it was Lord Iason Mink of ancient Amoi, who created Jupiter.”

“What?!” Bastian found this bit of news incredible. “That can't be so. I was led to believe, that Lord Iason Mink was just a privileged Elite highly favored by that damn machine.”

“Well, my people did not exactly advertise this information. You know my Clans have always begrudged the Warrior Lord, and his Intellect partners for our exile. It would not bode well to continually be reminded of such an event in the eyes of the stellar community. That is why Lord Mink was taken, in order to force Jupiter to share her technology with the Elders of Rhea.”

“Yes. How did that work out for you?” Bastian's words were heavy with sarcasm.

“Oh about as good as your attempts in seducing the handsome Lord.” Simon shot back without missing a beat.

“I was told I would have the opportunity to garner his business at the Trade Conference on Aristia. Yet your Elders nearly killed him in his abduction. As you can see, we both carry the scars of that fiasco.” Bastian pointed to his eye patch. “I was also trying to obtain information as to his care from those two medics.”

“I only know what I saw that night. And that was Lord Mink in full transformation. It was the first time in over ten thousand years, that an Intellect was seen in such a state. His appearance is just as you see in that footage. According to the archives of our people, the Ancients were powerful men. That both Lord Mink, and Lord Oskuro can manifest these changes, only tells me they also hold that power. The City of Elders is now dust, clear proof that they are not to be taken lightly.”

“You mentioned that you were prevented from learning this information, may I ask how?”

“Well, not so much prevented, as much as there was always some “unexpected event” that would thwart our efforts.”

“Oh? Like what? Perhaps we can compare notes, and commiserate?” Bastian laughed.

It was truly his theory that the universe as a whole, was conspiring with the Ancients, as Iason seemed further from his grip the more he learned of his past. He felt as if he wasted precious time with the medics, but was certain his plans were sound. The Elders had not fared any better, by the looks of Simon's face.

But then his laughter turned into colorful expletives, and some mighty powerful profanities. As the command console suddenly began to flash, and smoke began to rise from the many systems. Bastian pushed his seat away from the console, as he and Simon watched helplessly.

“Well, this is an unexpected twist.” Bastian spoke. “This data crystal just corrupted my system!”

Bastian looked at his console, as the individual controls continued to fizzle and pop, and then shut down. He looked on, as sparks once again flew, and the cascade effect ran from one system to the next, and suddenly the ship went dark.

“I must say Lord Bastian. You really are cursed.” Simon spoke rather nonchalant, as the emergency power kicked in, and the ship's engines turned back on.

*~*~*

Yui walked into the Firm once again. This time, he didn't look around, as once again, he was being led into Lord Stone's office. He had kept silent on the trip back, meditating on Lady Erin's awakening, and the revelation that he was also an Ancient. Hector and Sir James gave him the privacy he obviously wanted, keeping their conversation light, as Yui looked out the window of the shuttle. Nihamaya looked at Yui a few times, to see if the young man would engage in their conversation, but Yui's mind was nowhere near theirs. His day had been one amazing thing after another, and he was having trouble keeping up with each twist and turn.

As the shuttle landed, the four men entered the Firm, through a private entrance. This time, the corridors were filled with activity, as the students, and members of the Firm were all excited with the news of the Queen's awakening. Their joy was impossible to contain. Yui watched as young and old alike were engaged in active conversations, only to stop and see Yui walk by, led by Lord Hector Stone, and James. Nihamaya gestured to them to move on, and to stop staring at him. But Yui did not even notice.

“Master Yui, can we get you something to drink?” Nihamaya touched Yui on the shoulder, rousing him from his private thoughts.

“Oh, anything will do Nihamaya.” Yui smiled, as Nihamaya bowed, and headed towards the bar. He didn't know what to serve him, and after learning he was an Ancient, he assumed he might want something stronger than coffee. Hector sat behind his desk. He tried to figure out which way to begin, when Yui spoke up.

“Lord Stone, I appreciate the delicate way in which you were trying to break this news to me.” Yui's gaze was steady, as the young man would now forgo the awkwardness, and just plow ahead. “But since learning of my obvious past, I would like you to just tell me who I was.”

Yui's voice was low, as Hector tapped his fingers on his desk slowly. Yui was no fool, and being Lord Am's attendant, knew he was not one to dance around the issue. This was not the way he wanted to reveal his past to him, but since the cat was out of the bag, there was no reason to hold back now. Nihamaya brought Yui a glass of wine, which Yui quickly took several sips of.

“As we explained to Lady Erin, there are protocols, as we prefer the past to come to you naturally. As of late, we found those who are frequently exposed to Lord Iason and Riki, seem to be triggered into awareness. However, that is a special case with you and Lord Raoul. So it is of great importance that we move forward with you, and would ask that you please forgive us in advance, for the way it all comes out.” Hector cleared his throat, and began.

“You are Master Yui Fai, son of Lord Valcor Fai, Headmaster Sentinel of the original Sentinel Academy of ancient Amoi.” Hector watched as Yui's face expressed surprise. “He was killed late in the third century of the Wars of Woe. Lord Fai took the students and formed the first wave of attacks to protect the Royal Estate.”

Yui watched, as Sir James walked to a computer console off to the right, and pressed several commands on a keyboard. The archives were accessed, and the image of Lord Valcor Fai appeared, followed by the images of Yui's family. Hector and James watched Yui's face as the young man looked upon his own image.

He was a few years older than his present life, but there was no mistaking his identity. Lord Valcor was a tall man, with beautiful blue eyes. His long dark brown hair was pulled back and tied with leather straps. Yui watched the image of his father decked out in his Warrior robes, and noticed the sword he carried on his belt. His gold belt. Yui recognized this man, and suddenly spoke.

“That is the same man in that painting! The one with Lord Kai and Lord Oskuro. There was a man kneeling down, and he was being presented that sword. I remember the gold belt!”

Yui's outburst, startled Hector, but found his reaction promising. Yui listened as the voice of Jupiter now narrated his biography.

“Lord Valcor Fai, Headmaster of the Royal Sentinel Academy, was instrumental in the original defense barrage on the morning of the Elders awakening. He was married to Lady Emiko Fai of the House of Kana. Lord Valcor's quick response prevented the murder of Lord Kai Oskuro, and Lady Yuri Mink when the Royal Estate was attacked. Though Lord Raimen Mink and Lady Erin Oskuro were lost, Lord Fai led the first wave of retaliatory responses to eliminate, and hold off the Elders' progress. This gave Lord Kai Oskuro, precious time, as he placed the call to arms through use of Amoi's satellite system.

Lord Valcor Fai continued to serve under Lord Rene Am, as his Son Lord Raoul Am led the campaign in the Southern Hemisphere. Within the first century after the Elders' awakening, Lord Valcor had succeeded to maintain the front lines preventing the forward progress of the effected Elder Clans. With all attempts to communicate with the Elders failing, Lord Kai Oskuro's ordered all Elders to be killed on sight. This was now law, as the Elders could not be reasoned with, and Elder Jonas, Lord of the Elder Clans, refused to leave the safety of the mines.

Lord Valcor was assigned to lead the second campaign in the Northern Hemisphere. He was the sword that cut down the Elders' unquenchable thirst to murder. Lord Valcor was the first Lord to discover the infiltration by unaffected Elders within the ranks of the enemy. Lord Fai's entries reached Lord Kai Oskuro shortly before the end of the first century of the Elders' awakening. This only fueled Lord Kai's desire to cleanse the surface of Amoi of the Elders as a whole.

Lady Emiko Fai maintained the family Estate as a refugee center, and kept the surrounding villages supplied with food and medicine. With the aid of her son Master Yui Fai, Lady Emiko was seen as a beacon of hope in the Northern Territories, as families of refugees fled the major cities, and landed in her front gates.

Lady Emiko Fai was killed in the 107th year of the Elders' awakening. The Estate was overrun by Elders killing all the adults. Entries made by the young Master, indicate he fled with the survivors, which comprised mainly of the children. Master Yui Fai successfully created the first underground network of sanctuaries, and was hailed as a Warrior Elite in his young age of 100 years.

Master Yui Fai was killed, when his network was discovered by a rogue group of Elders. Archive entries fail to indicate how the young Warrior was killed, however, there are 49 entries by Warrior Lords indicating he fought most bravely, and was hailed as a savior of the young when he was killed at the age of 131. In the decades to follow, the children of many successful runs by Master Yui, survived into adulthood, and my ascent into power. Lord Valcor Fai mourned the loss of his wife and son, and was himself killed in action on in the 300th year after the Elders awakened. He was 402 years old.”

Yui sat in shock. His eyes filled with tears upon learning who he was. Though he had no memory of any of events he witnessed, it was clear to him, that it was indeed his life he was seeing. Lord Hector Stone rose and walked to where Yui was sitting.

“Yui, this is not the easiest thing for me to show you. But as Lord Raoul's mind has begun to awaken, there is concern for his mental state, when he does.” Hector whispered, as Yui wiped the tears from his eyes.

“W-What do you mean his mental state? Why is this a factor? All the Ancients have had a difficult awakening. As we just witnessed in Lord Omaki and Lord Jensen, and even in Lady Erin. What is so different with Lord Raoul?”

“It is true, just as you spoke. All the newly awakened have the trauma of reliving their deaths. As you will. However, Lord Raoul's difficulties are not in his awakening, which will be traumatic enough.” Hector looked at Sir James, as the keeper of the archives shook his head. “This is the most difficult thing you see-”

Yui's mind began to piece together the fact that he was being told this because of Raoul. As the light of awareness began to shine in his eyes. He looked at the images of his father in the archives once again, then Yui spoke.

“I knew him then, didn't I?” Yui placed a hand on his face. “I am being “educated,” not because Lord Raoul is awakening as an Ancient. I'm part of the life he had in ancient Amoi. Is this not so, Lord Stone?” Yui saw Sir James avert his eyes away from Yui's face. This was not lost in Yui. Lord Stone licked his lips nervously, then took a deep breath, and sighed in defeat.

“There is no easy way to explain this Master Yui. So I will tell you now that yes, you did know Lord Raoul in the past.” Hector paused. “But the circumstances were most difficult, as Lord Raoul had recently lost his father, before he lost you.”

Yui thought about this. While he was overjoyed to learn he was Raoul's lover in the past. He now feared what event could have happened, to cause Raoul such trauma. Trauma damaging enough to move Jupiter to “educate” him on his past. Seeing that her efforts were for his own good, he now waited for Lord Stone to deliver the truth behind his death.

“Yui, you were a child of seven years when Amoi fell. Which explains why Lady Erin would know you as a child. You lived for 124 years after the Elders' awakened into madness. You met Lord Raoul when you were approximately 117, if the archives are correct, and were lovers for nearly 14 years, before you were killed at the age of 131. Lord Raoul lived on for approximately 55 years after your death, and died as Lord Kai's Sentinel at Arms.”

Yui sat back against his chair, as the words sank in. “There was something Lord Stone forgot to mention. How did I die?” Yui thought to himself. He looked at Lord Stone, who was clearly perspiring once again, and looked towards Sir James for assistance.

Yui put on a brave face, as he now looked Hector in the eyes. “I have served Lord Raoul loyally for over twelve years, and I can tell you with complete confidence, that I know him, as no other in the present. Even more intimately, than Lord Iason.”

Yui's heart was beating so loud, he felt it was going to prevent his mind from hearing the words coming from Hector's lips.

“And since I know I will relive my death, I will learn all I can now, in order to save Raoul's mind. It is clear to me, that Jupiter feels this is a possibility, is this not so?”

Hector became serious, as Yui's words cut to the quick, and was already resigned in his own mind. Yet true to his noble character, was putting his personal feelings aside to care for Raoul. But would the young Lord be able to maintain his composure when the truth is before him in Raoul's awakening.

“Yes Master Yui.” Hector spoke. “It is as you say. Jupiter learned of your past when she planned her reanimation of Lord Iason's contemporaries. Those who were close to the Royal Family, would be reanimated first. When Jupiter discovered the two set of entries by a group of Warrior Lords, and a group of Intellects, she pieced together that the entries with regards to your death, overlapped the entries by Intellect Lords, who noted Lord Raoul's grieving over the loss of his lover.”

Hector looked at Yui, as he watched his expression change.

“I was that lover...” Yui''s voice trembled. “I was the reason, his mind broke, is this true?”

“Yes.” Sir James spoke. “Yui, you were the savior of many young children. However Yui,” Hector paused. “We do not have the account or the details of what occurred.”

Yui's mind began to reel. His heart ached with the thought of Raoul's grieving. Men wrote about his deeds, and Raoul's suffering, yet Raoul knows nothing of this? He was confused.

“Lord Stone, why is none of this in the archives? I see my life was noted, and Lord Raoul's men felt compelled to note his suffering. I know we all must have suffered, since we all died. But why all the special handling of this one Lord? Lord Kai Oskuro, I understand, suffered the most of all, yet he is doing quite well, despite his past horrors.”

“Lord Kai has a powerful mind indeed, and he lived the longest under extremely difficult circumstances. But he had an outlet - for a lack of a better word - in that he was able to unleash his emotions over the centuries. We don't know how Lord Raoul handled your death, the entries in the archives only indicate his loss was great. These entries alone, concerned Jupiter, as there are no other set of entries that speak of one individual's suffering. The fact that he's beginning to awaken, prompted Jupiter to be proactive.

“I don't understand. Raoul informed me that Jupiter placed mind blocks on all the Lords when she birthed them.” Yui spoke, “Lord Raoul specializes in mind blocks. He places such blocks himself all the time, and he used them in Lord Iason's rescue. I don't know of any Lord who can break free from them, except perhaps Lord Iason and Riki.

Hector was again surprised with the amount of information Yui was privy to. Raoul's love for the young man obviously moved him to share such information.

“Yes that is true, in most of the Lords. However, Lord Raoul has been exposed to the Ancients as you have. And he was also placed purposely near the ones who would awaken in hopes that he would. But the power that Lord Raoul harbors in his mind is the exact reason, his awakening is anticipated to be an extremely traumatic event. We theorize, that when he crosses that bridge, your presence may help prevent his mind from completely breaking down.”

“As Lord Iason had the young Prince, Lord Kai had Lord Raimen.” Sir James added, “The most recent Lords, Omaki and Argent, along with Lord Yousi, it appears- have all had the presence of a significant, if not emotional anchor present in their awakening.”

Yui could feel the muscles in his chest tighten, as he feared for Raoul. He was so far away, and on a mission. If this was not a significant factor, he figured they would have waited until he returned to Amoi before they acted, as they did today.

“Lord Stone, has something happened to Raoul? In Lady Erin's awakening, Raoul appeared as though he fainted. Is he alright? Lord Iason asked Lady Erin how she knew me, as it now appears I was known to her.”

“With continued exposure to Lord Iason and Riki, those who are pre-disposed to awaken, begin to show outward signs of awakening. A change of eye color, mannerisms, or they begin to have memories emerge in their minds. Now, we don't know what is going on currently on board their ship. But I do know that it is more likely that Lord Riki placed his mind in some sort of sleep mode. His empathic abilities are quite unique, and I believe, they are trying to figure out how to deal with Raoul as we speak. And now that we have seen him collapse with your presence at Lady Erin's awakening, Jupiter is quite concerned.”

Yui's heart could not take much more. He clutched his chest, as the thought of Raoul's suffering filled him, with anxiety. He saw Raoul participate in Omaki's awakening, but it was Lord Jensen who suffered, seeing his lover die in his arms. Raoul must have also agonized over his death, if they were lovers for fourteen years.

“Lord Stone, I will be looking forward to my time with Lady Erin. I don't have any of my memories, but if she - being Lord Riki's mother - has the same effect as Lord Mink and the Prince, then I want to be exposed to her as well.”

Yui's words were out of his mouth, before they registered in his mind. He listened to the words as they rung in his ears, and was quite surprised he said them out loud. Hector and James were equally surprised, though the young man seemed far more mature, than his young age of 24.

“My word!” Hector exclaimed, as he looked at Yui with much admiration. “That's the spirit! But I must say, that I don't envy what you will see and experience. However, I will look forward to being present when you do awaken. I will hope you allow this, as I would like to support you and Lord Raoul in this very unique awakening. Members of the Firm are all direct descendants of the Warrior Clans. And I will truly enjoy showing you some of the families your efforts had in their lives. I must also warn you Yui, that should you feel even the slightest itch in your memory, to please let us know. We want to make your transition, as smooth as possible under the circumstances.”

“Thank you Lord Hector. I don't know how I will feel about this later, when it all sinks in. But I know one thing, my love for Raoul will not waiver. Lord Iason and Lord Riki are an excellent example of love that survives the echoes of time. Lord Raoul will survive this, I'm certain of it.”

The two men took Yui into their embrace, Hector giving him a bear hug, as if he were his own son. They feared for him, when he awakens. But they knew that with Lady Erin's help, Yui may survive the transition with someone who knew him close by. Though Raoul's trauma was far more compelling, they did not envy those around him. Though to their credit, there was much power surrounding the traumatized Raoul.

*~*~*

Omaki lay on one of the exam tables in the medical center. The lights were dimmed to help ease his throbbing mind after, all the activity of the day. He witnessed Lady Erin awaken, which he simply loved, but the double duty of being a vessel for Iason and Riki was now making him regret it. How they could manage such power, without a headache was amazing. He and his two friends had carried those images to their graves, and true to their word, kept it hidden, until asked to reveal it to the Iason and Riki. Iason's tears pulled at his heart, seeing the Blondie Lord affected so much by Raoul's past. He did not envy the hardships Raoul would face, as it was clear to the whole group that he was on the verge of opening the doors of hell in his mind.

“Is there anything I can get you?” Heiku checked on Omaki, as the monitors reflected his elevated heart rate. “You were most brave Omaki. I see now that the world we all came from, was literally a living nightmare. I still have a hard time seeing you in any other light, other than a naughty Blondie who loves to play games. But you have my respect. And it makes me appreciate Jupiter that much more.”

“Oh? How so?” Omaki pressed his temples. “I see us only reliving that hell in our minds. I am only grateful that I have Argent restored to me, or to him that is. He relieved my death, and I can't tell you how difficult it has been for him. He's not recited a single line of poetry since we've awaken. Did you know he was a poet?”

“No, I did not.”

“Well, before the Lord's Dance, Argent was so eloquent, so beautiful with words, and actions. But since he's awakened, he's been withdrawn, and ever so melancholy. I scarcely know him, since he's been so concerned over Raoul.”

“Well, it would be understandable, seeing how you three witnessed his suffering.” Heiku soothed.

“Heiku, you will cross that bridge someday.” Omaki pointed at Heiku playfully. “I know you will see life differently once you reconcile your past life -that hell unending- with the present.” Omaki waved his hands in the air. “Though you are right, please forgive my sour mood. Jupiter has much to be appreciated for. She restored Amoi, she brought Iason and Riki back. And is in the process of re-establishing the Royal Families to us all. So perhaps when all is said and done, when the Maidens return, and blond babies are being born, with warrior sons and daughters, then will Amoi truly come full circle.”

“It will be a glorious time, filled with tears of joy, instead of sorrow.” Came the familiar voice of Argent.

Argent walked in, he had walked around the entire ship, gathering his thoughts. His memories of such a dark time did make his heart ache, and when he walked towards the medical center, he overheard Omaki's sad words.

“I'm sorry my love. I have been living in my head for several days, when I should be happy to be alive, and loved by you. Not reflecting on a long lost and miserable past.”

Argent bent down and gave Omaki a kiss. Heiku smiled to see the two men tenderly express their love. He knew Yousi's mind would also keep his secrets regarding him, and wondered when he would indeed cross that bridge Omaki spoke of.

“Yeah, well you will have to just make up for your sour mood lately. I have a killer headache, and Heiku has been quite hospitable though, I must say the pain medication will be better appreciated when it kicks in. So maybe you can help me out until then?” Omaki grinned, as he raised an eyebrow.

“I don't know...is it alright for Omaki to rest in his room Lord Heiku?”

“Oh, I think you can best sooth what ails him Lord Jensen. Medical science, for all it's advancements fails to heal the heart.” Heiku winked at the two lovers. “Actually, you could help me out by freeing my exam table for someone who really needs it” Heiku teased.

“Wha?” Omaki gave Heiku a surprised look. “Did you hear that Argent? The doctor is giving me the boot! And after I sacrificed my mind for his viewing pleasure!”

“Aw, poor Omi,” Argent teased. “I have a much better use for that mind of yours.” Argent smiled, as he slowly caressed Omaki's forehead. “Let's get you back to our bed, I'm sure you will feel better soon.”

Argent helped Omaki sit up, then both strolled out of the medical center. Heiku watched, as Omaki reached behind Argent and spanked him playfully on his ass. He smiled, as Argent complained. Heiku now made for Raoul's quarters. He wanted to check up on him, before he looked for Iason and Riki. He figured Riki's mind was pudding by now, and wanted to see if he needed anything.

As he turned the corner to Raoul's quarters, he noticed Lord Kai enter. Heiku walked in and found Raoul laying on his back, being given a full body massage by Jake, and Fran. The room temperature had been raised, and smelled of sweet mineral oils. Lord Kai was sitting in a chair, quietly watching.

“How is Omaki doing Lord Heiku?” Kai asked.

“He is doing as well as can be expected for someone who had a host of awakened Ancients in his mind. I've given him some pain medication for his headache, and Lord Jensen is taking him to their quarters to rest.”

“Ah, splendid. He was quite brave that one, though he is awakened himself. It might be a good idea to remind him to reach for his inner powers and draw upon them.”

“I think he has yet to recall everything, as it is with you all the first few days. I know Lord Iason and your son, have some missing memories, yet to resurface. I believe the trauma one suffers leaves a lasting impression in some, and less in others. Although I might wait a bit before we tell Omaki this, his naughty nature is hard enough to deal with, can you imagine what he will be like once he begins to draw on his inner powers?” Heiku rolled his eyes.

“Yes, that one is quite the tease. Remind me to tell you about the pranks he pulled on us all at the past Lord's Dance! My, but he had a knack of making Lady Erin upset, a skill actually.” Kai laughed quietly. “Oh, I forget, you have only recently seen what she can be like, so you will no doubt see more of his high-jinx once he and Raimen get a wild hair up their arse.” Kai continued to laughed. His mood changed once he looked at Raoul once again.

“I had no idea Raoul had suffered the way he did. When I saw the scene inside the Estate after his rampage, I really had no choice but to silence the pain in his heart.” Kai looked down at Raoul who slept peacefully. “There is only so much one can take, powerful or not. But I know that young Warrior, Yui, will be most welcomed by Raoul when he hears he is alive. His heart will be lifted when his mind realizes that Yui awaits his return. I know I did once I saw Raimen's beautiful blue eyes.”

“Indeed. I know that it will go far in his healing.” Heiku whispered. “As the Head of Intelligence, his mind is a steel trap my Lord. He has been conditioned to harden his thoughts, and seal his heart against most anything. When he was Iason's lover, he was brutally jealous. He resented your son, though at the time, none of them knew who they really were. But Raoul, would not allow anyone to even look at Iason. Granted, the truth of the matter has placed Raoul in his place, and I for one love the way he has come to terms with it. He is most proud to serve your family, and has grown quite proud of your son.”

“Yes, it has been a cruel world we have been given, both in the past and now the present. It seems we all made a dreadfully wrong turn at the crossroads of time, and have been placed on one detour after another. It took Jupiter over ten thousand years to put us back on the proper road, and we will move forward, mark my words.”

Jake smiled while he listened to their conversation. He loved the power behind Lord Kai's words. He was quite charismatic, and truly knew his station. He didn't take anything for granted, and even Jupiter's power didn't phase him one bit. Jake watched as Fran work on Raoul's legs. He had found several major muscle groups extremely tight. No doubt from the intensity of his emotional break.

Jake watched the world they came from with his heart at his throat, as Lady Erin replayed the horrific day of her death. To see the madness of the Elders up close, was the most terrifying thing he's ever witnessed. And to witness them in their full strength attacking the Royals, made chills run down his spine. The Elders Iason and Riki battled, were far from mad, though their plot was certainly insane. As Fran finished with Raoul, they dressed him in a pair of comfortable pajamas, and covered him up. Jake looked at Lord Kai, as the Warrior Lord nodded with approval.

“Thank you young Jake.” Kai spoke. “I am very pleased you and your medics are with us. How do you feel? Better?”

“Yes my Lord, I am quite alright thanks to Lord Raimen.” Jake blushed slightly. “We will be making our rounds tonight. I believe Martin and Owen are treating Lord Riki and Lord Iason. We will also visit Lord Ghan, I believe.”

“Yes, he is most grumpy as we speak.” Heiku spoke. “But Lord Jensen has just taken him to their quarters to rest. So you may have to visit him later on, if you get my meaning.” Heiku winked at Jake.

“Well then Jake, you will have to visit Lord Raimen and I when you get the chance. He was quite drained by Lady Erin's beating, and could use a relaxing massage. Iason praised your team's handiwork in his quick recovery.” Kai knew he was making Jake blush. “Something about these minerals and whatnot.”

“Y-Yes my Lord.” Jake smiled. “Lord Iason and your son, resonate with the minerals. And its not just those on Aristia. These minerals are literally found on every planet in this system. Even the murky hot springs on Rhea reacted to their powers. They are quite unique in this respect.”

“Really? That is incredible news. I know I felt extremely focused when bathed in those minerals, and believe me, we have been doused in these fragrant oils for days!” Kai let out a healthy laugh. “I better learn all this before my Queen thinks I've been visiting a harem somewhere out in space. My flesh has never been so soft and moist, I feel like a pampered dignitary!”

Heiku and Jake laughed along with Kai, as his animated face betrayed what must be pictured in his mind, if Lady Erin does indeed react the way he spoke. Heiku gave Raoul a quick exam, noting his calm vitals, and easy breathing. He wondered what was going to happen to him once Riki released the sleeping block he placed on his mind. He's known Raoul nearly all of his life in the present, being friends since their youth at the Academy. He found the scenes in Omaki's mind rather frightening, as the Intellect Lord unleashed his grief the way he did. It made him wonder what he would have done, should that had been Yousi who died in the hands of those Elders.

In fact, he had yet to learn about his own past, since he's not had a moments rest since he began assisting Jupiter in reanimating the Royals. It's not that he didn't want to know, he's just had no time. But if he's learned anything by witnessing these Ancients awaken, it was that Lord Kai knew Omaki, Argent and Yousi. It would only make sense that his medical expertise was of some use back then. Omaki had teased Yousi regarding his feelings for him, so he was curious as to what their relationship was, if it was anything at all. Lord Kai and Raimen knew him, for they have been rather friendly since their return, and even began to tell him of his past exploits at the Ios labs. So he was looking forward to his turn, though was not pushing it. Ignorance was bliss, and he was in no hurry to recall.

“Well my good doctor, what is his prognosis?” Kai interrupted, as Heiku finished his exam, and turned to face Kai.

“Well, he seems to be quite relaxed. The portable monitors show his brain functions are not under any distress. Overall, to see him, you would never think he was troubled psychologically.”

“Yes, well that brain pan of his is something else. Once, he took on three of them crazed Elders on his own. He nearly mowed you down-” Kai caught himself, before he finished his sentence. Heiku caught on, and spoke up.

“That is quite alright my Lord. I know quite well that we are all linked. I've come to terms with this fact, but unlike Raoul, I will embrace the horror as I cling to those who've come before me. Namely all of you!” Heiku laughed in spite of himself. “I've been able to piece together several accounts by Omaki's threesome, so I know it will come eventually.”

Kai's face changed to the seriousness of his words. “There is much to consider my good doctor. There is no easy way to return from the dead. There are things that only you will recall, and the voices you hear, will never go away. If ones eyes are the windows to a man's soul, then what you have seen in the mind's eye of us all, will prepare you for what is coming.”

*~*~*

Lady Erin's dipped her toes in the cool water. The sky was clear, and she picked wildflowers on her way to where they lay. The stones were tall and worn by the echoes of time, but the welcome was still clear enough for all to see:

“WELCOME MY LORDS, WHERE WE LE FIDELIS AWAIT YOUR RETURN”

“The Faithful.” Erin smiled, as she bowed gracefully, and walked into the many caves. Her eyes were amazed by the quaint Estate built from stone, and the windows were decorated with stained glass of many shapes and colors. She was impressed with the system of mirrors that lit the dark caves, and loved the warm glow that bathed the dwelling before her.

“Ah look, the twin moons ascend.” Erin would smile, as the many windows of Estate depicted the glory of Amoi's Golden Age. She ran from room to room, as she wanted to see them all before the sun set.

“My, my, will you look at all this fine work! Why there is Lord Am! Oh, sweet Rene and young Raoul, what wonderful work this is! And there is Lord Raimen and my dearest, Yuri. Ha! Ha! Now that looks like you Lord Raimen, all innocent and unassuming...what a bunch of hooey! You naughty Intellect, wait until I tell Lady Yuri you have been fooling around with my Kai while we slept!”

Erin found her way back to the main hall, which was furnished modestly. The dining room was set for a big meal, and the crystal dinnerware was scratched, and faded. She walked out the front doors, and followed a stream, which forked in two directions. She followed the laughter of many young ladies, and began to hum to herself.

“Ah..now I know that song...The Maiden's Lullaby! Oh what a sweet tune, I must find them, before they fade away. We must not let them fade...”

She followed the stream and looked to her right. There were many beds built within the rock bed. They had names, and were beautifully decorated with the ancient symbols of which Erin recognized.

“What is this?” Erin gasped. “They sleep, oh..my Ladies, they all sleep! Lady Annabelle, you were true my dear Lady...you did not fail me...or Yuri.” Erin knelt before the crypt of Lady Annabelle, and spoke a quiet prayer.

Erin made her way back to the Estate, and looked upon the many stained glass windows once again, as the final rays of sunlight reflected off the mirrors from the outside. It was faintly familiar.

“They are all so beautiful! Look at that one!” She giggled, as she looked upon the image of Kai and Riki. It had Kai's long straight hair and he was dressed in his royal robes. He was bending down as if listening to a secret. Riki's beautiful face was near his father's.

But then she noticed that they were beginning to transform. Riki's eyes were so black and his hair was visibly angry. His body began to glow, and he kicked up a tempest of wind. She saw Kai's body posture change, as he always stood...when he felt threatened.

“Why would they be like this?”

Erin's mind began to darken, and was filled with unsettling images. The sounds of chaos began to roar, and her heart raced. Suddenly the images of mindless Elders came forward, slinking below clouds of fog to kill Kai. They were many, and they cried with much hatred in their voices.

“We shall root out your seed, Lord Kai, and trample the vineyards Lord's of Amoi!” Erin trembled as the eerie voices whispered in her ears. “You shall never see the young Prince again...Lady Erin!”

Erin began to cry out and thrash about in her bed. The alarms went off, and a team of doctors came running into her room.

“They await his arrival! They are waiting for him!” Erin's voice cried out as she tried to pull the leads of her body. Medical equipment flew all around the room, and the lights flickered on and off.

“My Lady! Please wake up!” Doctor Haruki tried to rouse Lady Erin. Suddenly she opened her eyes, and in her anxious-ridden thoughts, leashed out, sending the doctor flying in the air. He stopped short of striking the wall, and was held upon nothing as Jupiter appeared, and gently put him down behind her shielded form.

“My Queen, please awaken, there is no one to harm you..” Jupiter soothed, as she walked slowly towards her bed.

“What is this?!” Erin, upon seeing her own image, froze looking up at Jupiter's face.

“My Lady, it is I- Jupiter.” Jupiter smiled sweetly. “You are dreaming my Lady, calm your thoughts, rest, it is only the wind that frightens you.”

“Jupiter? By the Gods! Iason's Jupiter?!” Erin looked at her image reflected in Jupiter's face.

“Yes, my Lady. It is I.” Jupiter held out her hand, and stroked Erin's hair. “You are dreaming, and have given the poor staff quite a fright. Now, let's get you to lie back-”

“NO! It wasn't a dream!” Erin breathing labored, and her monitors continued to sound off. “I saw them! Elders! They were lying in wait- and, and, they were going to kill my Riki!” Erin was beginning to feel light headed, as the anxiety in her newly awakened mind was beginning to concern Jupiter.

“My Lady, please settle down..” Jupiter began to set the controls to give Lady Erin a sedative when she spoke once more.

“Jupiter! My son, Riki. He's on a mission is this not so?” Erin began to tremble.

“Yes my Lady, as you are well aware.”

“And they are going to a green planet with many fields of flowers and...and a stream...a stream runs near the Maidens.” Erin was about to be sedated when Jupiter held back.

“A green planet you say?” Jupiter hesitated, she knew Lord Riki was empathic, and it came from his mother's side. She did a quick query to her matrix, and within moments had accessed her data. It was true, Lady Erin was a strong empath, less than Kai, and it was noted that Riki followed in his mother's footsteps. More queries were processed, to find that the Lord Prince was not welcomed at Council sessions. Elder Jonas complained he stared too much in his direction, often speaking his thoughts before the Elder's bewildered complaints, teasing him.

“My Lady, what is your dream?” Jupiter now asked, as the words coming for Lady Erin were not so far fetched.

“M-My Riki! There is a man, with one eye, and a man with no face! They are trying to steal my children.....our children!!” Erin's body began to experience seizures, and Jupiter had no choice but to sedate her.

“Shh my Lady, we will not let that happen. Shh..sleep my Queen, your Prince is well taken care of, and no harm will come to him...shhh.”

Jupiter sedated Lady Erin, as the medical staff treated her for several cuts, and bruises in her thrashing around. Doctor Haruki was being treated for some minor scrapes, and was fortunate that Jupiter was always around in stealth mode. The medical team began to pick up the equipment that flew about the room in her blind rage, which struck many. She destroyed all the monitors with her energy, and had Jupiter not erected a shield, the destruction would have been severe. She was thankful she had been proactive, as she assessed the damage. The the walls had cracked, and the windows had blown out with what could only have been a tempest of pure energy.

Jupiter replayed her security images in her matrix, to find Lady Erin had transformed, and her eyes had become as dark coals. Her long raven black hair was whipping about angrily as she reached out for Riki. Her face was expressing fear, and her voice was genuine, as she cried out for Kai and Riki. Jupiter would weigh the words she spoke and paced the floor near Erin's bed. She decided it was too much of a risk not to act on this, and decided to send another emergency beacon to the Sentinel's Chariot.

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Thanx for reading my story, I hope you enjoyed it! Please give a review! (-.-)' -bows humbly-