Fan Fiction ❯ The Four Lords ❯ Haunted Past, Tortured Future ( Chapter 35 )
[ Y - Young Adult: Not suitable for readers under 16 ]
Kiba shook his head sadly as he looked at the numerous graves outlining the southern end of the castle. “So much death...its as if the Lord of Darkness has come back. Even so, he is long dead. These wretched wraiths should’ve died with him too.”
“Heh, you almost sound as if you’re sad that Scion’s dead.” Shadow said as he walked up beside Kiba.
“No lad, just bothered. If it’s not Scion controlling these wraiths, I’m afraid that there’s only one other person evil enough to use these monsters.” Kiba said solemnly as he looked at Shadow with dark eyes.
“You’re thinking about the Lord of the north aren’t you?” Shadow asked.
“Aye, he’s the only one that comes to mind. It was only after he could start using magic that these creature’s came back. He’s the only logical choice, but in saying that it brings some serious questions to his loyalty of the original demon Lord.” Kiba sighed as he shook his head. “I don’t know, I guess I feel like the lass right now. The more I think about it the more confused I get. Although unlike her, I don’t think the lad is the answer to everything. He would’ve been too young to remember too much of the war. Though she wants to know about him for her own reasons.”
“She does have a right to know about his past, she is his mate after all.” Shadow agreed.
“Well evidently he had something very important to discuss with her.” Holly announced as she walked up to the two demons. Shadow kissed her softly before asking her what she was talking about.
“Well as soon as the Lord got back from Medea he told Brittany that he needed to talk with her. He said it was time to tell her the truth. He made sure that I left before he took her down into the treasure room.” Holly continued. “So whatever he’s telling her it must be important for him to be that secretive about it.”
Kiba shook his head in doubt as he spoke. “I doubt it lass. The Lord isn’t one to speak about his past to just anyone. I’m sure that knowing him, regardless of what he told her, he would want to ensure his privacy. If he tells her anything it will be what he believes she needs to know and nothing more. The Lord is too secretive about his past to let anyone even begin to understand it.”
“Kiba’s right. Even if she is his mate, there’s only so much the Lord will tell her. I don’t think even she would be able to get the entire story out of the Lord, not unless he had a very good reason for telling her.” Shadow agreed. Holly shook her head as she stared at them. A coy smile played upon her lips as she responded.
“Let me give you a hint boys. Never underestimate the powers of a female. Demon Lord or not, the Lord is still a male. That fact alone makes him vulnerable when it comes to a female. I will give him this though, he’s a lot more resistant than most of you.” Holly teased. “Like all males, if its to your benefit or if it saves you trouble, you will tell everything to keep your mate from getting upset.” Kiba and Shadow exchanged glances before staring at Holly with wonder.
“Just what has made you such an expert on males, may I ask?” Shadow inquired. Holly playfully caressed his cheek as she looked at him.
“I’ve lived with you, Kiba, and the Lord for way too long. Do I need any more experience, or would you like me to prove my point?” Holly asked with an evil glint in her eyes. Shadow’s eyes widened as he quickly shook his head.
“No, no, that’s okay. I believe you.” Shadow answered quickly causing both Holly and Kiba to laugh.
“Either way you look at it, its got to be something important. They’ve been down in the treasure room for over an hour.” Holly said with a sigh. Kiba thought for a moment before brightening.
“Lass things are too dreadful here, lets try and bring some merriment back to the castle. Tell the cooks to prepare a feast. Shadow you go tell the clerics about what’s going on too. We’re going to throw a banquet.” Kiba said with a self assuring nod. Both Shadow and Holly brightened at the suggestion as they quickly agreed.
“What are you going to do Kiba?” Shadow asked before setting off.
“I’ve got my own idea’s.” Kiba said with a mischievous grin. Shadow chuckled as he turned to leave.
“If I know that look, something tells me the Lord and lady are in for a treat when they get back.” Shadow called as he headed towards the castle.
“Aye, and they might not be the only ones.” Kiba replied softly as he too headed off.
* * * * * * * *
Alex bit his lower lip as he sat down on the set in front of Brittany so that he was directly in front of her. Brittany’s mind raced with all he had just told her as her emotions varied with each passing second. Alex had just bared his soul to her, every little detail about his past, including what he had put inside of her had just been revealed to her. Brittany didn’t know just what to feel as Alex stared at her, waiting to see how she would respond to what he had told her.
He’s afraid I’m mad at him. I have every right to be mad at him for what he did, but after hearing all that I have I can’t honestly be mad at him. He’s been through hell and back, far worse than I could’ve ever imagined. It’s no wonder he acts the way he does, especially when it comes to the other Lord’s. I know your intentions were good, and knowing what I do I can’t harbor any feelings but love towards you. It’s no wonder you haven’t told anyone else about your past, but at the same time I can’t imagine what it must have been like to keep it all to yourself for so very long. Brittany thought as she finally looked at Alex. He’s told me the truth. It’s just that in the process I’ve hurt him because of it. Reliving a past as haunted as his, I didn’t have the right to ask that of him.
Alex finally broke the silence, afraid if he waited any longer he wouldn’t be able to face Brittany’s wrath. “Brittany, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done what I have. If I could take it back I would, I can’t possibly ask you to forgive me or to even understand, but please don’t hate me.”
“Alex I could never hate you.” Brittany sighed. “It’s just a lot to take at one time. I love you Alex, nothing could ever change that. You don’t have to ask for my forgiveness, for it is already given. I should be the one telling you I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have put so much pressure on you to tell me your past.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. I wouldn’t have told you what I have unless I wanted you to know.” Alex said smiling weakly as the tension of wondering wether or not Brittany was mad at him lifted. “In all honesty I’m glad I’ve told you. Now I finally have someone that knows, someone who I can trust to keep my secret. Someone who I love, and who deserves to know just what kind of man she has fallen in love with.”
He really does trust me. He really does love me. That I cannot deny. Brittany thought with a smile as she got up and sat in Alex’s lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him passionately. “I love you Alex. Thank you for trusting me with your secret. It means a lot to me that you told me.”
“I love you. That was reason enough to tell you.” Alex replied as he hugged Brittany softly, pulling her closer to him as he kissed her. Alex’s eyes suddenly popped open as he looked back in the direction of where the entered. “No!”
“What’s wrong?” Brittany asked, shocked by Alex’s outburst. Without answering Brittany’s question Alex stood up quickly carrying Brittany bridal style he ran towards the maze.
This isn’t good. I’m not going to make it in time. Alex panicked as he ran through the maze. Dammit, I’ve got to clear my mind and get rid of this damn maze!
Alex halted in his tracks and calmed his breathing as he tried to erase everything from his mind. Brittany looked at him with wonder, afraid to speak incase she might break his concentration. Suddenly she saw the maze and everything else shimmer before fading out. When Alex opened his eyes back up he was only a short distance from the mirror. In two long strides he closed the gap and launched himself at the mirror carrying both him and Brittany through. Just as the two lovers passed through the mirror Alex had to twist his body to avoid an energy blast, which a second later vaporized the mirror. Alex continued twisting his body so he’d land on his back and not hurt Brittany. Before Alex could make out who attacked them the mirror exploded with a flash of light, blinding both Alex and Brittany. When the light vanished and they could see again there was no sign of there attacker. Alex helped Brittany to her feet as he examined the mirror.
“I was afraid of this.” Alex muttered softly. He felt Brittany place her hand on his shoulder as she looked down at the remnants of the mirror.
“What was that?” Brittany asked softly.
“Someone trying to get rid of us. If the mirror was destroyed while we were inside there we would’ve been forever trapped inside that world. Originally there was a barrier around this to prevent that from happening I was hoping it might still be in effect, unfortunately we were not so lucky.” Alex answered with a grimace. “Luckily though, one of the magical properties of the mirror is to alert the user when there is a dark presence nearby. That’s how I knew we needed to get out of there.”
“Who do you think could’ve gotten in here and out without alerting anyone?” Brittany asked as she kneeled beside Alex.
“I’m not sure, but something tells me I need to have a little talk with Zanatos.” Alex replied as he took out the medallion he found earlier and held it in the palm of his hand. Brittany looked at it and nodded with understanding as they both headed towards the exit of the chamber. Once they reached the top and Alex opened up the door to the secret passage they were greeted by the worried faces of Kiba, Shadow, and Holly.
“Is everything okay my Lord? Rylus said he heard an explosion, and since he doesn’t know about this room he came to get us.” Kiba explained.
“No, someone just tried to attack us.” Alex said with a smirk. “Good thing I’ve confessed my sins cause I would’ve hated to die today if I hadn’t.” Brittany tried to hide her blush at the comment knowing that it was directed at her. When she looked up however she noticed Holly eying her with suspicion. Alex noticed it to and quickly changed the subject. “From the way it sounds I’m guessing one of you has decided to throw a party while I’ve been gone.”
“We thought we’d liven things up here my Lord. Although it seems you’ve had enough excitement for one day.” Kiba said shrewdly. “If you want we can call it off my Lord.”
Alex was about to agree when he looked at Brittany and saw the excitement in her eyes at the idea of a party. Heh, she’s just like a little kid. I can’t do that to her. Alex then looked at everyone else and he could see the disappointment in their faces at the idea of the party being cancelled. Alex smirked as he answered. “Well, seeing as how Brittany here has never been to a demon realm party, I will allow it this once. Still, I’ve got to give a certain Lord of the north a message. So go ahead and get everything ready. After I’m through I want you Holly to help Brittany pick out a dress for the evening. This is going to be a night to remember.” Alex said. Despite everyone’s rejoices at the news he still couldn’t shake the feeling of dread that was slowly creeping upon him.
Even though Brittany was excited at the news of a party she could sense Alex’s apprehension as she grabbed his hand reassuringly. Alex smiled and led Brittany upstairs to their room to prepare for the evening.
As soon as Alex entered the bedroom he shut the doors and headed to his study. Brittany was right behind him as he opened up the cabinet doors revealing the three glass panels which he could contact the other lord’s with.
“What are you going to talk to Zanatos about?” Brittany asked.
“It’s time me and Zanatos had a little heart to heart talk.” Alex said coldly as the mirrors began to glow.
“Heh, you almost sound as if you’re sad that Scion’s dead.” Shadow said as he walked up beside Kiba.
“No lad, just bothered. If it’s not Scion controlling these wraiths, I’m afraid that there’s only one other person evil enough to use these monsters.” Kiba said solemnly as he looked at Shadow with dark eyes.
“You’re thinking about the Lord of the north aren’t you?” Shadow asked.
“Aye, he’s the only one that comes to mind. It was only after he could start using magic that these creature’s came back. He’s the only logical choice, but in saying that it brings some serious questions to his loyalty of the original demon Lord.” Kiba sighed as he shook his head. “I don’t know, I guess I feel like the lass right now. The more I think about it the more confused I get. Although unlike her, I don’t think the lad is the answer to everything. He would’ve been too young to remember too much of the war. Though she wants to know about him for her own reasons.”
“She does have a right to know about his past, she is his mate after all.” Shadow agreed.
“Well evidently he had something very important to discuss with her.” Holly announced as she walked up to the two demons. Shadow kissed her softly before asking her what she was talking about.
“Well as soon as the Lord got back from Medea he told Brittany that he needed to talk with her. He said it was time to tell her the truth. He made sure that I left before he took her down into the treasure room.” Holly continued. “So whatever he’s telling her it must be important for him to be that secretive about it.”
Kiba shook his head in doubt as he spoke. “I doubt it lass. The Lord isn’t one to speak about his past to just anyone. I’m sure that knowing him, regardless of what he told her, he would want to ensure his privacy. If he tells her anything it will be what he believes she needs to know and nothing more. The Lord is too secretive about his past to let anyone even begin to understand it.”
“Kiba’s right. Even if she is his mate, there’s only so much the Lord will tell her. I don’t think even she would be able to get the entire story out of the Lord, not unless he had a very good reason for telling her.” Shadow agreed. Holly shook her head as she stared at them. A coy smile played upon her lips as she responded.
“Let me give you a hint boys. Never underestimate the powers of a female. Demon Lord or not, the Lord is still a male. That fact alone makes him vulnerable when it comes to a female. I will give him this though, he’s a lot more resistant than most of you.” Holly teased. “Like all males, if its to your benefit or if it saves you trouble, you will tell everything to keep your mate from getting upset.” Kiba and Shadow exchanged glances before staring at Holly with wonder.
“Just what has made you such an expert on males, may I ask?” Shadow inquired. Holly playfully caressed his cheek as she looked at him.
“I’ve lived with you, Kiba, and the Lord for way too long. Do I need any more experience, or would you like me to prove my point?” Holly asked with an evil glint in her eyes. Shadow’s eyes widened as he quickly shook his head.
“No, no, that’s okay. I believe you.” Shadow answered quickly causing both Holly and Kiba to laugh.
“Either way you look at it, its got to be something important. They’ve been down in the treasure room for over an hour.” Holly said with a sigh. Kiba thought for a moment before brightening.
“Lass things are too dreadful here, lets try and bring some merriment back to the castle. Tell the cooks to prepare a feast. Shadow you go tell the clerics about what’s going on too. We’re going to throw a banquet.” Kiba said with a self assuring nod. Both Shadow and Holly brightened at the suggestion as they quickly agreed.
“What are you going to do Kiba?” Shadow asked before setting off.
“I’ve got my own idea’s.” Kiba said with a mischievous grin. Shadow chuckled as he turned to leave.
“If I know that look, something tells me the Lord and lady are in for a treat when they get back.” Shadow called as he headed towards the castle.
“Aye, and they might not be the only ones.” Kiba replied softly as he too headed off.
* * * * * * * *
Alex bit his lower lip as he sat down on the set in front of Brittany so that he was directly in front of her. Brittany’s mind raced with all he had just told her as her emotions varied with each passing second. Alex had just bared his soul to her, every little detail about his past, including what he had put inside of her had just been revealed to her. Brittany didn’t know just what to feel as Alex stared at her, waiting to see how she would respond to what he had told her.
He’s afraid I’m mad at him. I have every right to be mad at him for what he did, but after hearing all that I have I can’t honestly be mad at him. He’s been through hell and back, far worse than I could’ve ever imagined. It’s no wonder he acts the way he does, especially when it comes to the other Lord’s. I know your intentions were good, and knowing what I do I can’t harbor any feelings but love towards you. It’s no wonder you haven’t told anyone else about your past, but at the same time I can’t imagine what it must have been like to keep it all to yourself for so very long. Brittany thought as she finally looked at Alex. He’s told me the truth. It’s just that in the process I’ve hurt him because of it. Reliving a past as haunted as his, I didn’t have the right to ask that of him.
Alex finally broke the silence, afraid if he waited any longer he wouldn’t be able to face Brittany’s wrath. “Brittany, I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have done what I have. If I could take it back I would, I can’t possibly ask you to forgive me or to even understand, but please don’t hate me.”
“Alex I could never hate you.” Brittany sighed. “It’s just a lot to take at one time. I love you Alex, nothing could ever change that. You don’t have to ask for my forgiveness, for it is already given. I should be the one telling you I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have put so much pressure on you to tell me your past.”
“Don’t be ridiculous. I wouldn’t have told you what I have unless I wanted you to know.” Alex said smiling weakly as the tension of wondering wether or not Brittany was mad at him lifted. “In all honesty I’m glad I’ve told you. Now I finally have someone that knows, someone who I can trust to keep my secret. Someone who I love, and who deserves to know just what kind of man she has fallen in love with.”
He really does trust me. He really does love me. That I cannot deny. Brittany thought with a smile as she got up and sat in Alex’s lap, wrapping her arms around his neck and kissing him passionately. “I love you Alex. Thank you for trusting me with your secret. It means a lot to me that you told me.”
“I love you. That was reason enough to tell you.” Alex replied as he hugged Brittany softly, pulling her closer to him as he kissed her. Alex’s eyes suddenly popped open as he looked back in the direction of where the entered. “No!”
“What’s wrong?” Brittany asked, shocked by Alex’s outburst. Without answering Brittany’s question Alex stood up quickly carrying Brittany bridal style he ran towards the maze.
This isn’t good. I’m not going to make it in time. Alex panicked as he ran through the maze. Dammit, I’ve got to clear my mind and get rid of this damn maze!
Alex halted in his tracks and calmed his breathing as he tried to erase everything from his mind. Brittany looked at him with wonder, afraid to speak incase she might break his concentration. Suddenly she saw the maze and everything else shimmer before fading out. When Alex opened his eyes back up he was only a short distance from the mirror. In two long strides he closed the gap and launched himself at the mirror carrying both him and Brittany through. Just as the two lovers passed through the mirror Alex had to twist his body to avoid an energy blast, which a second later vaporized the mirror. Alex continued twisting his body so he’d land on his back and not hurt Brittany. Before Alex could make out who attacked them the mirror exploded with a flash of light, blinding both Alex and Brittany. When the light vanished and they could see again there was no sign of there attacker. Alex helped Brittany to her feet as he examined the mirror.
“I was afraid of this.” Alex muttered softly. He felt Brittany place her hand on his shoulder as she looked down at the remnants of the mirror.
“What was that?” Brittany asked softly.
“Someone trying to get rid of us. If the mirror was destroyed while we were inside there we would’ve been forever trapped inside that world. Originally there was a barrier around this to prevent that from happening I was hoping it might still be in effect, unfortunately we were not so lucky.” Alex answered with a grimace. “Luckily though, one of the magical properties of the mirror is to alert the user when there is a dark presence nearby. That’s how I knew we needed to get out of there.”
“Who do you think could’ve gotten in here and out without alerting anyone?” Brittany asked as she kneeled beside Alex.
“I’m not sure, but something tells me I need to have a little talk with Zanatos.” Alex replied as he took out the medallion he found earlier and held it in the palm of his hand. Brittany looked at it and nodded with understanding as they both headed towards the exit of the chamber. Once they reached the top and Alex opened up the door to the secret passage they were greeted by the worried faces of Kiba, Shadow, and Holly.
“Is everything okay my Lord? Rylus said he heard an explosion, and since he doesn’t know about this room he came to get us.” Kiba explained.
“No, someone just tried to attack us.” Alex said with a smirk. “Good thing I’ve confessed my sins cause I would’ve hated to die today if I hadn’t.” Brittany tried to hide her blush at the comment knowing that it was directed at her. When she looked up however she noticed Holly eying her with suspicion. Alex noticed it to and quickly changed the subject. “From the way it sounds I’m guessing one of you has decided to throw a party while I’ve been gone.”
“We thought we’d liven things up here my Lord. Although it seems you’ve had enough excitement for one day.” Kiba said shrewdly. “If you want we can call it off my Lord.”
Alex was about to agree when he looked at Brittany and saw the excitement in her eyes at the idea of a party. Heh, she’s just like a little kid. I can’t do that to her. Alex then looked at everyone else and he could see the disappointment in their faces at the idea of the party being cancelled. Alex smirked as he answered. “Well, seeing as how Brittany here has never been to a demon realm party, I will allow it this once. Still, I’ve got to give a certain Lord of the north a message. So go ahead and get everything ready. After I’m through I want you Holly to help Brittany pick out a dress for the evening. This is going to be a night to remember.” Alex said. Despite everyone’s rejoices at the news he still couldn’t shake the feeling of dread that was slowly creeping upon him.
Even though Brittany was excited at the news of a party she could sense Alex’s apprehension as she grabbed his hand reassuringly. Alex smiled and led Brittany upstairs to their room to prepare for the evening.
As soon as Alex entered the bedroom he shut the doors and headed to his study. Brittany was right behind him as he opened up the cabinet doors revealing the three glass panels which he could contact the other lord’s with.
“What are you going to talk to Zanatos about?” Brittany asked.
“It’s time me and Zanatos had a little heart to heart talk.” Alex said coldly as the mirrors began to glow.