Sorcerer Hunters Fan Fiction ❯ Just A Moment ❯ See ( Chapter 1 )
[ T - Teen: Not suitable for readers under 13 ]
By: Miko No Hoshi 
I couldn't even summarize the story, let alone this! Uh, romance is hard, desperation here, angst, and a trial.
Anime/Manga: Sorcerer Hunters Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Action / Romance / Angst | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 01.25.2004 | Pages: 10 | Words: 8.4K | Visits: 1.1K | Status: Work In Progress
I couldn't even summarize the story, let alone this! Uh, romance is hard, desperation here, angst, and a trial.
Anime/Manga: Sorcerer Hunters Fan Fiction | Genre(s): Action / Romance / Angst | Type: Other | Uploaded On: 01.25.2004 | Pages: 10 | Words: 8.4K | Visits: 1.1K | Status: Work In Progress
Notes, part 1, thanks and time: Okay, this is probably the longest thing I've ever posted and its not even finished yet. First off, want to thank Fala-san, about a year ago (note this was written a long time ago) I sent her the first part of this and she read it for me and made some great suggestions (didn't get the second half because I couldn't make my computer do it right, so if that half is lacking, its my fault). I gave up on it for a while, letting it sit on my computer and ferment, then I changed some of it, and I'll probably change more, but I thought I'd go ahead and post it to gage some opinions and figure out if its really worth the effort.
Notes, part 2, excuse: Yes, its very "dicey", skipping from scene to scene, its supposed to be that way, leaving little bits of confusion.
Notes, part 3, the plea: Please, please review and help the pitiful author figure out what to do....
For A Moment
Firmly an eight year old Carrot grasp little Marron's hand, pulling him behind the leafy bush. A red bird flitted to land in a nearby birch tree, chirping to interrupt the silence of the day. Big dark eyes looked up at him uncertainly, innocence radiated from the smaller boy but he shifted nervously from foot to foot.
"Niisan." He pulled his hand back to clutch it against his chest.
"Shhh," he stepped forward only to have Marron step back. "Stand still Marron, it's not gonna hurt."
Placing both his hands down on the boy's shoulder, he felt him shiver beneath the touch.
"Close your eyes." He did. Ever so slowly, Carrot brought his lips against Marron's; they were warm and soft and though it lasted only a second, he would never forget it. Pulling back, Carrot stared for just a moment before hearing an announcing cough from above.
There stood Apricot, looking angry. Carrot pushed Marron away suddenly. The smaller fell rather hard onto his bottom and began to cry.
~*~
Huddled in the farthest corner of the room Marron clasped his hands tightly over his ears, still he heard his mother lecturing Carrot. He was in trouble, so much trouble. Marron didn't understand; they had just wanted to see.
~*~
Carrot rubbed his backside and winced painfully. Apricot's hand was swift and hurtful. Now she had departed. Pressing an ear against the thin door, he listened.
"Do you understand?"
He couldn't hear the answer, Marron's voice was too soft.
"No! Marron, you just can't do that."
A whisper.
"Its not the same!"
If only he could understand.
"Its just wrong Marron! Its wrong."
She opened the door and Carrot scampered out of the way. He had already recieved his lecture and made his promises. Slowly, he opened the door to the room she had left. Marron made quite a pitiful site. He lay face down on the bed, clutching his cherished blue pillow and crying.
Carrot called his name.
Sitting up, he pushed irritably at the short strands of dark hair that hung in his face. His small white robe was disheveled and mussed.
"Niisan."
"Marron. You okay?"
He sniffled.
"Aw Marron, come on, stop that." He reached out to touch him only to see him pull back. "Sorry I got you in trouble."
"It's okay, Niisan."
"I still don't see why its so good when mom and pop do it but its so bad when we do it!"
"Its just wrong," he repeated.
"Yeah, but why?"
They were called for dinner and the issue wasn't mentioned again.
~*~
Ten years, for ten years Carrot had held tightly to that memory. The satiny robe beneath his fingers, the summer wind on his face, the warm lips beneath his own, they were all precious to him. He was almost nineteen now and he wasn't exactly sure when he had fallen in love with his brother, but it had happened.
Now it ate slowly away at his mind. To have this memory, just one, was torture. He wanted to relive it again, now that he could truly appreciate the moment. He wanted to know where Marron's hands would touch him, to know what that long hair would feel like beneath his fingers, to know what he tasted like. Perhaps he wanted more because he knew he couldn't have it.
Pushing the thoughts to the furthest corner of his mind, Carrot stood and exited the restaurant. Stepping onto the dusty street he saw Tira waving to him silhouetted by the dark clouds that loomed on the horizon.
~*~
Chocolate turned, pulling her garrote against the sorcerer's throat. His strangled cry was the last sound as his head rolled to bleed onto the gray floor. Quickly she ran to where the others gathered in a tight circle. In the center lay Carrot, chocking and coughing. His green shirt had been turned red by blood, most of it his own, flowing from the hole in his stomach attributed to an unexpected turn of the sorcerer's sword.
Red haired hung in his face as Tira desperately projected the healing magic. The white glow was fading as her power grew short. Falling back against Gateau she sighed and offered a questioning look. It may have been enough; it may have been just short of it.
A weak voice spoke up.
"M..marron..."
The mage leaned forward quickly. His pale face even more pallid. His hand shook as it reached out to run soothingly over Carrot's sweating brow.
"I am here Niisan." Leaning closer he looked directly into the dilated eyes that regarded him with uncertainty.
Carrot's arm lifted slowly, his hand gently grasped Marron's dark hair, bringing him close enough to feel Carrot's breath on his lips.
"I...I never told you..."
"Niisan," his voice was strained with tears that he wouldn't let fall.
Gently Carrot raised his head and brought his lips against Marron's. The mage's obsidian eyes widened, but almost as soon as it had happened Carrot fell back and into the blackness of unconsciousness.
~*~
The bright light of the morning sun made his eyes burn and he shut them tightly against its glow. His whole body ached to serve as an unneeded reminder of the last battle, it was crystal clear in his mind.
The door squeaked lightly as it opened to admit Tira, she carried a bowl of water in her arms. Seeing his attempt to focus on her, she quickly set aside her burden to settle on his bedside. She asked the normal questions and told him of the battle he didn't need to be told about. She apologized at not being strong enough to heal him right away, adding she had done so as soon as possible. The conversation ended with her relieved tears falling to dampen his bare chest.
He petted her hair and offered the comfort he could, but his mind was elsewhere. All he could see was Marron's worried face leaning over him, and then...then...
As hard as he tried he couldn't regret it.
Finally Tira stood smiling as she wiped at her tears, "Carrot?"
"Yeah?"
"I'm glad your okay." Quietly she pulled the door shut. He didn't see what her eyes had said.
~*~
With a small clink Marron sat the ceramic plate in front of Gateau and took a seat opposite him. Picking up his fork, he picked lightly at the eggs he had prepared.
"Eat." Gateau instructed. He had taken to the habit of watching over their resident silent mage. The boy didn't know what was best for himself and was likely to forget things like food and rest on occasions.
"Hm."
"Was that a okay hm or a not okay hm?"
"I just..."
"Carrot's fine you know, no one can kill that unbeautiful idiot." He shoveled food into his mouth and threw what he hoped was a comforting look across the table.
"I keep seeing him, laying there...the blood..." as he spoke he dropped his fork and pushed his plate away letting his hands fall to cross over his stomach. The mental image did nothing for his appetite. The night before had been so bad. He hadn't slept at all, sitting instead on his bed wishing his brother had been there. For years he had denied himself even the hope that they might have been something besides brother and now with what Carrot had done...
The blond reached a hand to touch his shoulder, barely feeling a slight shudder before the mage pulled away.
"No," he whispered. He stood and left the table.
Gateau sighed; he'd heard that answer for over two years since he first asked. His heart told him to keep trying but his mind, well, his mind was in agreement, causing him to wonder if the supposedly logical organ was biased.
~*~
The pain in his abdomen was almost gone. It had been so close. A little one way or the other and he wouldn’t have been standing staring out the window. The fall leaves wafted to the ground in a symphony of muted colors. The dusty road ran deep through the path that the trees shaded. He wondered where it went.
Belting his sword about his hip, he left to find out.
Feeling the breeze blowing cool against his face, he folded his arms and placed his hands behind his head. Sauntering down the road he allowed his mind wander to the events of before. He remembered Tira’s worried words and tried to decide exactly how much he had or hadn’t heard in her voice. So much emotions and he ruefully hoped it was just the stress of the situation and not...no, it wouldn’t do to delve further into that.
Coming to the clearing he laid eyes upon the small lake with trees leaning in around it. Leaves floated on its surface and moss claimed the edges, but the few spots that remained clear sparkled as if coated with invisible diamonds.
The log he sat on was rotting and none too stable, but it offered a view beyond belief, and so he took what nature offered and had a seat.
~*~
“Marron?” Chocolate stopped the mage as he was making his way up the stairs. His hand paused on the rail and he gave her an undivided attention that few others did.
He waited for her to continue.
“Um...have you seen Darling?” She had looked all over and was missing her glomping toy.
“Not recently.”
“Hmph,” she sulked a bit, turning to go back to her room.
Chocolate’s question sparked his own interest. Retracing his steps back to the lower level, Marron slipped on his shoes and stepped outside. Concentrating briefly, he located the direction in which his brother had gone. Tucking an errant strand of dark hair behind his ear, he started down the path.
Carrot faced away from him, starring intently the lake with a concentration foreign to his natural routine. His back tensed slightly as he felt Marron approach. Motioning, he indicated the spot beside him and felt the log move only slightly as the younger boy took a seat graceful as ever.
Silently they watched the sun settle over the distant hills in an array of purple, red, orange, and gold sttling into a clear, dark night that reminded Carrot of the color of his brother’s eyes. A single star shone in the southwestern corner of the sky.
“I wish I may, I wish I might...” Carrot sighed, longing for the days from whence the lines came.
“Have the wish I wish tonight,” Marron finished.
“Do you miss it?”
“Not really. It is the past.”
The moon was lodged firmly in the heavens and the wishing star lost among many others before they headed back.
~*~
Milphey knocked happily at the wooden door, his purple hair glimmered in the light and the bangles on his arm jingled lightly. His bright smile dimmed only slightly when it was Gateau who opened the door.
“Hello Gateau!”
“Um...hi.”
“Can I come in?” Only then did Gateau realize he was blocking the way with his more than adequately sized form.
“Sure.”
Milphey wandered in, admiring the cabin and making no attempt to explain himself. A yawning Carrot came into sight. His extraneous stretching was brought to a sudden halt as a Haze Knight latched onto his arm.
“Ack! Get offa me!” He turned and only succeeded in backing himself into the corner, which Milphey took full advantage of.
“Milphey.” Marron’s calm voice stopped the pursuit. The knight backed off while Carrot stood back up and tried not to think of the inappropriate places he had been touched. He waited for an explanation of the unexpected arrival.
“Oh, yes. I suppose you’d like to know why I’m here,” a few nods answered him. “Well, I know you’re all on vacation, but Momma sent me to collect Marron for a bit of training at the Church, if he wants that is...”
Marron thought for only a moment before nodding in agreement. Training at the Stellar Church meant training with Momma’s guard, a valuable experience always.
“Good, run pack your things while I visit with Carrot-chan a bit,” a purple eyebrow lifted slightly and Carrot was once again pounced on. Chocolate soon joined the fray, hurting Carrot more that helping from what Gateau saw as he took refuge pressed tightly against the kitchen counter.
~*~
“Concccentraaate Marrrrronnn,” Cinnamon guided as she sat cross-legged between the glowing lines of the pentagon with her student.
Marron’s brow creased with effort and the glow became a brighter blue, casting strange shadows in the dark room. A small smile spread across Cinnamon’s face; he was doing well.
~*~
The four Hunters sat around the table. They were all missing Marron’s culinary skills at the moment as they sat down to a dinner of soup, rather scorched, and salad, rather bland. Tira had tried her best though and everyone felt required to at least try to eat.
“It’s good,” Gateau chanced, lifting his fork once again.
“No, it’s not,” Tira admitted, looking to Carrot to deny it.
But Carrot’s eyes were unfocused and his mind was far away.
"Carrot?"
He jumped visibly, "Yeah, it’s fine Tira."
She blushed at his smile.
~*~
Someone shook him awake enough to realize it was still dark out. Trying to focus, he looked up into the stern face of Kahlua, another of Momma's Knights.
"You can not train if you're asleep, Marron." His voice was whispered and soothing, but the deep authority moved Marron into action as he stood and dressed by the light of the crescent moon.
Outside they stood on the dew-heavy grass as Kahlua showed him how to string and load the silver bow. An arrow flew through the air with a whoosh to land dead center of the target. He took off the string and handed over the weapon.
Marron took it a bit warily but he was not one to question. Taking the string, he stretched it up and it almost clasped only to snap back and hit his arm. Blood, made purple by the moonlight, flowed, but he received only a calm invitation to try again and expected no more.
~*~
Gateau walked slowly into the yard. He shed his armor and vest to let it fall to the ground before grasping the worn hem of his green shirt; he peeled it from his body. Beginning his morning exercises he felt the distinctive pull that something was missing.
Marron wasn't sitting on the porch watching what he called 'the beauty of a new day' and Gateau called the sunrise. Gateau hoped one day he too could see the beauty of a new day, perhaps reflected in those shining dark eyes. Marron would say yes; he had to.
Warding off the foreboding feeling rising in the deep pit of his stomach, he struck poses against the dawn sky.
~*~
Tira sank neck deep into the comforting water of the tub. Her red hair was piled daintily on her head and she had set aside the dark glasses, giving herself a curiously refined look. Lifting one shapely leg, she traced indistinguishable patterns on the cool tile with her toe. There was a sad expression on her face, murcurating between truly depressed and slightly wistful.
A knock at the door alerted her to the presence of her sister. Giving the okay, she watch Chocolate saunter in and sit indian style on the soft white rug beside the bathtub.
"Hi."
"Hi," she replied. This wasn't an unusual occurrence, for Chocolate often came to keep her company, a habit of little girls too grown up to bathe together. It was really just a chance for them to talk without other things getting in the way.
"You don't look so good."
Tira turned to cross her arms over the side of the tub and lay her head upon them. "I suppose I'm not really."
"Wanna talk?" She absently twirled a strand of Tira's hair between her fingers.
"No."
"Why not?"
"Its just not something I can talk to you about, that's all."
"Hm," Chocolate stood, "my little sister’s growing up."
"I'm already grown up."
"Yeah, I know."
The soft click of the door and then nothing.
~*~
Chiffon stood behind the mage and circled his arms around the boy's shoulders, cupping his hands. "Now!" He shouted.
Marron released the energy that had gathered in his hands. The ball of lightning flew across the room to separate into five parts, it crackled in the silence then collided to explode in an awesome boom. The two magic users were saved only by the shield Chiffon cast.
The Knight smiled a little even as Marron collapsed back into his arms.
~*~
A still shirtless Gateau walked into the kitchen. A fine sheet of sweat glistened on his muscled arms and chest. Opening the refrigerator he took a breath of the cool air before pulling out a bottle of water.
The weather itself was cooling and soon his workout would have to move to the indoors. He didn't really mind, because he had a little consolation. Soon after Gateau stopped working out outside, Marron stopped meditating outside. Instead of sitting far away among the tall grasses or a shady grove of maple trees, he would sit in plain sight in their living room, when they had a living room that was.
Once in mid-November Gateau had gotten up early for no reason in particular. Noting the chill in the air and the snow on the window panes he had lit a fire in the fireplace. Before the sun could rise, Marron came down the stairs and into the room. Glancing at the fire then at Gateau, he had simply settled onto the floor and closed his eyes. Never had Gateau watched such a personal moment of the mage, and he took in every minute of it for he thought it would never happen again. The next morning he came down to see Marron sitting in the same spot and it made him smile. From then on, it had been their winter tradition.
Now he longed for that time. It was the only closeness he could get.
~*~
The room rested in total silence. So quiet, it almost hurt. Rolling over on the wide bed, Carrot stared at the ceiling. He had been left alone with his thoughts all day and didn't appreciate their company in the least.
He couldn't help but think about what he was missing, what he was always missing. He was empty inside. What would it take to fill that void? Could he risk everything? He wasn't sure.
~*~
"No distractions."
"No distractions."
"I mean it Marron," Milphey spoke.
"I know."
"You can't do it without being sure."
"I am sure."
"Confidence."
"Confidence."
"Strength"
"Strength."
"No distractions."
"No distractions."
Looking into that face, he knew the boy meant it. It was necessary; it was all necessary.
~*~
"Chocolate?" She spoke through the darkened room.
"It's Carrot, isn't it?"
"Yes."
Rolling over, Chocolate looked at her younger sister. With a small sad smile, she admitted aloud what her heart already knew.
"He doesn't love me Tira. I don't know who it is, but its not me."
There were tears and she let them fall. Crossing the small space between the beds, Tira held the other redhead against her chest and let her cry. Chocolate had given her permission.
~*~
Opening the drawer he pulled out the faded picture. They were all smiling in the picture, it had been a happy time. Onion and Apricot sat beneath the tree, Carrot peeked from behind it and a very small Marron sat happily on the grass attempting to grasp the stem of a dandelion, Carrot remembered being five when it was taken, that made Marron no more than three. He also remembered what had happened after the picture. He had jumped from behind the tree, scarred Marron and made him cry. He could plainly see the large trees rolling down his ototo's cheeks even as Apricot had laid him across her knees for punishment.
When was the last time Marron had cried?
Perhaps when their mother died. Perhaps not. Why didn't he know?
~*~
The pentagon glowed as if on fire, it lifted into the air and shrank to a size no bigger than a dinner plate before releasing its energy to light the room in a sudden flash. Marron opened his eyes and let his hands fall from their poised position.
Standing against the far wall, Cinnamon simply clapped, slow and steady like the rhythm of a coming war drum.
~*~
He knocked on the door quietly before stepping inside. She was sitting on the bed with her feet tucked under her and her attention focused on the familiar hat that rested before her.
"Lunch is ready," he stated, wanting to go but somehow fascinated by the beauty of the woman before him. She was different, still.
"Thanks Carrot."
"Um, you're welcome Chocolate."
"No, I mean it. Thanks for everything."
Before he could respond, she hopped off the bed and proceeded to glomp his arm. The still moment was left behind.
~*~
The arrow shot strait and true. Even the rain that had begun to drizzle couldn't distract from the look of approval Kahlua gave him. Reaching for the quiver, he repeated the action.
Fifty silver arrows, one silver bow, no mistakes.
~*~
She looked carefully at the muscled blond before her, he stared back waiting for an answer she didn't have.
"I don't know Gateau."
"Anything at all?"
"Its just...this is Marron. He's so...."
"Alone."
"Yes, alone."
~*~
The magic burst forth, broke and reunited. He didn't waiver or fall and the shield was his own. Free magic, no wards, no focus, just power.
~*~
The four gathered once again at the kitchen table. No one spoke and there was an odd tension in the air.
~*~
Armor clanked as they settled before her. Big Momma sat at the head of the large table, it would be no simple dinner.
"If we go now before the other is strong....Tell me, can we win?" She asked, looking at them with concern.
"He is well trained with the weapon," Kahlua stated, folding his hands on the table and thinking a moment. "More time will not improve very much in that aspect."
She nodded.
Chiffon spoke next, "He learned faster than I thought he would. The necessary training was complete yesterday. With more time I could be more sure, but it is not worth the risked of the other's gained power."
Cinnamon looked up from rubbing a smudge off her armor. "I thinnnnk, he willlll doo wellll, the sssettt is reeeadyyyy."
A person of infinite patience, Momma waited for her to finish, "Milphey?"
His dark eyes were worried as he got up to pace a bit. "He's young."
"We have no choice Millefeuille."
"I know, I know. I think he can do it, but..."
"But?"
"Genesis requires absolute inner harmony, most often achieved through distancing oneself. However, Marron has always been distant and is yet to conquer the battle within. It may be enough...I do not know. I am sorry Momma-sama."
"It's okay Millefeuille. We will try."
Chiffon sorted through the parchments in front of him. Some held maps and star charts, other held ancient calendars, and still other were filled with his own soft writing. "We have three days, on the dawn of the fourth it will come and if the sun sets before we act, it will be too late."
~*~
"Nice to see you again Marron, did you miss me?" Gateau grinned as Marron walked through the door. He was taken aback just a little as Marron completely ignored him. "Don't I even get a hello?"
"Something is wrong Gateau. Get the others, Momma wants to see us."
"What is it?"
"I do not know."
~*~
Momma looked at her children. They stood still with looks of fear and uncertainty hiding in their eyes. They would go, they had said they would, but each was worried in their own way.
Carrot had given off chasing Dotta to hear the message, but now he resumed. He wouldn't think about it now and would ask questions later.
Chocolate stood quietly, hands tangling in her coat. She stared at the floor as her mind sorted all the information.
Tira's face was obscured by the dark glasses but Momma could sense her uncertainty. She worried more about the others, especially Carrot.
Gateau looked excited, his muscles flexed and his head was up and ready. But those ice blue eyes held many things and one of them was indeed fear.
Marron was blunt and got to the point, "How will we do it? If the Haze Knights couldn't then how do we have a chance?"
He spoke the doubt of the others. At one time Momma had held their unwavering trust, but after dealing with Zaha and finding her about the murder Carrot, they just couldn't anymore.
"You are our only hope Sorcerer Hunters. There is a spell that can that can defeat Eirnos but it is difficult and takes power. Marron, you will learn this spell, you already know the basic pieces. It will be essential that the rest of you fight back long enough to let him cast it. You can win if you work together."
"But Momma," Tira spoke, "why doesn't Milphey cast the spell?"
The purple haired woman shook her head gently. "My Knights have many powers Tira, but not this. It must be him. Now, we have three days. You may stay here at the church, prepare or rest as you like. Dotta."
The winged girl spun quickly from Carrot's grasp and led them away. Millefeuille stepped forward to speak.
"Big Momma, can we not go with them to at least help?"
"No. Its hard Milphey, I know, but you have fought Eirnos and lost, he knows you and would sense you coming. His psychic powers are strong. "
"As you wish."
~*~
Marron lay in bed and stared at the ceiling, it lines and cracks making a permanent picture in his memory. He was tired and half expected Chiffon or Cinnamon to rouse him for another round of training, but they did not come and neither did sleep.
His responsibility.
Something the Haze Knights couldn't do.
How?
Finally giving up on rest, he cast aside the quilts and slid off the bed. Foregoing his layered robes, he pulled on just the white pants and shoes, taking a moment to tie back his hair before its tendency to be a problem could be fulfilled. Picking up the bow and quiver, he stepped out the door.
The halls were quiet and every footstep on the marble floor echoed through their high ceilings. Soft voiced murmured through the walls but gave no indication of their origin. Suddenly the door he passed opened behind him. In the dim light he could barely make out the naked form of Milphey Yu.
"Wandering the halls Marron dear?" He asked with a smile.
"Just going out," he motioned with the bow in his hand.
"Hm, you should sleep, tomorrow's not going to be easy."
"Can I ask you a question?"
"You just did."
Marron made a small frustrated sound in response, he had never enjoyed verbal games with those who could outdo him.
"I'm only kidding. Go ahead, though I don't promise any answers."
"Of course. Milphey, why am I the one?" His words were chosen carefully as always and not stuttered in the least. His eyes met the other's and held him accountable.
"Fate. Destiny. God. Whatever you want to call it. You have the ability Marron."
"What ability? I /just/ learned how to cast a free form spell, I can not just conquer something like this!" His voiced was low and forceful.
Slowly Milphey stepped into the hall where his face was plainly visible, along with everything else. Marron fought the urge to run his eyes up and down the exposed form before him, he won, but not without a struggle.
"You see, each of the Haze Knights works by element, so we can each cast part of Genesis. You though," he reached out a hand to tip up Marron's chin and look strait into his eyes. "You don't seem to have an element Marron. You cast the Phoenix of Fire and the Dragon of Water almost in the same breath. I've seen you throw the Hurricane into action without a second thought and Cinnamon reported you knew the Genbu Earthquake. Its a rare thing to find a mage capable of two, let alone all four. True, you lack the expertise we four have found through the years, but don't think of yourself as less than you are." He was standing close now and Marron could feel the heat emanating from his body, it made the hairs on his neck stand up and sent a shiver through him.
Suddenly Milphey stepped back, "Don't get distracted."
Marron nodded and continued on his way as the door shut quietly behind him.
~*~
Her pink hair stood out in stark contrast to the night sky. He noted this as he walked out to join her onto the spacious balcony. She turned and saw him ,only to turn back again as he approached. Her glasses had been laid aside and bright ruby eyes questioned his presence.
"Its nice out tonight," he sighed, leaning against the rail she was sitting on.
"Yes, its pretty."
There was something he was supposed to say, he knew it, but he just couldn't bring it to mind. The silence was long.
"The stars are bright," she added, looking skyward.
Starlight, star bright, the nursery rhyme took up repeating in his head. "Yes."
What /was/ he supposed to say? Her eyes said it was missing.
"It seems everyone is up."
"Huh?" Ever tactful was Carrot Glace.
"Down there, isn't it Gateau and Marron?"
"Yeah, it is," he let his eyes wander to the mage.
The night's beauty couldn't compare to his. That was it. That is what he should have said. But the moment had passed.
~*~
He lifted the bow into position and pulled back the string. His sight found the target and in a split second the arrow was there. He heard clapping from the side. Surprised, he turned to see Gateau standing under a nearby tulip tree. The blond shoved his hands into his pockets and came over.
"What're you doin' up? Couldn't sleep?"
"Yes."
"Same here, but how would you with all the stuff Momma told us. I mean, monsters and time limits. I'm getting too old for this shit."
"You're only twenty-three."
"Still too old."
"Hm."
"What happened to your arm?" Gateau asked as he lifted said appendage in his hand. Marron realized it was still bandaged from a few days ago. He honestly hadn't thought of it.
"The string snapped."
"Ow," he winced in sympathy. Having spiked wrist bands, you got to know the feeling of getting hit by your own possessions intimately. Lowering his head, he placed a gentle kiss on Marron's arm, followed by another on his wrist and a third on the soft skin of his palm.
Marron's frozen eyes met his and in an instant they were locked in a passionate kiss. The moment lasted an eternity. They broke apart, trying to take in enough of the night's crisp air to breath. Gateau was overjoyed, that is, until Marron pulled from his arms, a terrible expression on his face.
"No," he said.
"But--"
"No!" For that moment, it had been Carrot, not Gateau who had held him. He retreated back into the confines of his room, fighting emotions that shouldn't have been there in the first place.
~*~
"Two days," Big Momma stated, looking down upon where her Knights stood, instructing Marron. They all turned to stare at her sad expression and mirrored it with their own.
~*~
"I have to tell him," she vowed to the mirror as she brushed her hair. Chocolate's reflection moved and Tira turned to look at her sister who had gone to stare out the window.
"Do you think..." she whispered. "Do you think it would have made a difference if /I/ had told him?"
"One-sama..."
"I'll smile for you Tira, when you're happy...I'll smile for you."
~*~
Carrot paced as he had done all morning. His legs ached with want of rest, but his mind refused to do so.
~*~
Pain. Pain was good. Sending another punch to rattle the tree, he felt satisfaction as he saw the blood flow freely. Gateau hit the tree again.
~*~
'"Tomorrow you will go Sorcerer Hunters. Tonight, do as you wish." Her voice said the rest, the last night, maybe forever.
They broke away from in front of the hall and Marron fell beside Kahlua.
"Not now Marron."
"Why?"
"You've worked hard. Go be with your friends."
~*~
"Carrot?" Tira stepped quietly into the darkened room.
The person she was looking for sat up on the bed and turned on a nearby lamp. His clothes were wrinkled and twisted; there were circles under his eyes.
"Are you okay?"
"Yes," he lied, it didn't sound convincing, but he didn't care.
Taking a seat on the edge of the bed, she clutched his hand in her own. His skin was rough with calluses, but warm to the touch as she knew it would be.
"I need...I need to tell you something."
Letting his attention fall from the questions that plagued his heart, he listened to her with full attention.
Reaching up, she lifted the dark glasses off her face and placed them aside, but her eyes didn't meet his. "I don't know when it happened, or even why it happened, but I've done something Carrot. Its not a bad thing, but it can be hurtful, and I don't want to hurt anyone. It made Chocolate cry and some nights, it made me cry as well, but now...I have to tell you."
Their eyes met, and for a moment, everything was going to be okay, but it wasn't.
~*~
Gateau didn't ask, being told once was enough for the night. He wanted nothing more that to take the small mage in his arms and just hold him. But he wouldn't ask.
~*~
Milphey sat quietly with Kahlua, neither spoke, but sympathetic company was good to have. They had failed the mission and now others might pay the price.
~*~
Chocolate wrapped her arms around her sobbing sister as they sat in sadness on the marbled floor. Thoughts of revenge fleeted through her head but were dismissed quickly. You could never harm the one you truly love.
~*~
Tira's words had thrown him into the reality of the situation. The last night; the last chance. Her tears hurt him but warned him too. Very soon they may weep together for last was a strong word and he did not intend to ignore it.
~*~
The silence ruled and Gateau fell asleep with its company.
~*~
"Marron, may I come in?"
"Of corse Niisan."
Carrot pushed the large door aside to see the mage silhouetted against the large window by the moon's light. His glowing raven haired hung over his bowed face, obscuring any expression that might have been there. Unsteady legs carried him to his brother's side. Reaching up, he pushed back the silken curtain to see eyes of trouble and concern.
Perhaps he was the cause.
Perhaps he was the solution.
Last.
~*~
Reaching across the cleared table, Milphey captured Kahlua's lips with his own. Milphey liked to keep very close company.
~*~
In the distance the red light of Eirnos whispered just over the horizon.
~*~
Shouting startled her into action. With Tira right behind, eyes still red, they went to see the disturbance of the night.
~*~
With long hair disheveled and wrapped in only a sheet which looked suspiciously like the ones another Knight kept on his bed, Kahlua stepped into the hall. It seemed the whole crew of Hunters had gathered there.
Tira and Chocolate clasped weapons in hand and stared from the right, an ultra alert Gateau from the left. Milphey stood behind him, perhaps a bit close for comfort.
The author of the shouts stood with his back pressed against the hard marble wall. Tears fell unheeded from his brown eyes, but the look he cast at the opposite door was cold.
There stood Marron. Turning his head to look at the floor he spoke with tones that sounded forced and angry.
"Of all times Niisan... Why? Why now?"
"Its our last night," he whispered.
Marron laughed, sarcastic and cold. "That's what you think? You have so little faith in me that you have to make confessions? You have to think about making everything okay and asking God to forgive you?" His eyes came up and he met Carrot's fiercely. "Don't bother making things right with a vindictive God, Carrot, worry about me first!"
The door was slammed and Carrot fell, saved from a nasty collision only by Gateau.
"What did you do Carrot?"
"I told him I loved him."
~*~
The door slammed and Marron slid down its surface. Starring at the moon he wondered why all of this had fallen on his shoulders. Everything he had wanted had just been offered and he had said no.
/Don't be distracted./
He hoped the universe was happy, because he damned sure wasn't.
~*~
The morning sun peaked just over the edge of the horizon, glowing an unnatural blood red. The Hunters gathered outside the church. No one had slept and now they did not speak just marched silently off to face their fates.
Chocolate mentally clutched at the picture now tucked into her skin-tight clothing. It was of Carrot and her when they were happy. That snapshot represented everything she had lost yet still what she fought for. With tears gone she looked fierce and strong.
Gateau clenched his fists, needing to feel the power, to know he wasn't helpless. What he wanted he could not have, but it would always haunt his sleep. He would fight for his mage even if the prize went to another.
Tira tugged at the edge of her orange suit. The whip felt heavy in her hands and her heart felt heavy in her chest. She still had tears to cry and fighting seemed near impossible. Still, she would follow him anywhere.
Carrot was silent. His playful expression had disappeared and had been replaced by one of permanent disappointment. He watched the ground as he walked. For eleven years he had lived on far fetched hope, and now it was dead. He wanted to die too, but he couldn't abandon his brother. Not now.
Marron's mind was empty. It had taken five painful hours of meditation but now he walked with cold confidence. He would win. He would not be distracted.
~*~
The shadow shimmered in the pure heat. Lesser demons danced behind him as Erinos laughed. It would be easy, so easy to conquer these foolish humans. He would win then he would slay those damnable Knights.
~*~
They stood together on the flat plane facing the rising sun.
"Now." No one was sure who gave the command.
Marron lifted his hands, fingers curved gracefully, in front of his chest and began to chant a spell none of them had heard before in a language they didn't know.
"Om maha samaye hrta-ah."
It began in a flurry.
Hordes of demons poured over the land. Their tall, thin bodies were blurred and covered in black mist. Elongated limbs ended in claws as sharp as the canine teeth that extended far beyond their mouths and lashed out to knaw at the flesh of anyone foolish enough to stand in their way.
Gateau grabbed one of the beasts, sinking his fist into its midsection. The warm not-flesh enfolded his hand, sucking and pulling it further in. Gateau yanked back, hard, and heard the disgusting wet pop as he managed to get free. His enemy smiled. Infuriated, Gateau went for his face, landing a blow directly on those horrid teeth. There was a cry of pain, not human nor like anything else the blond had ever heard. It was Gateau's turn to smile.
Ducking sideways, Tira narrowly avoided the shadowed thing as it rushed her. Another appeared suddenly at her side. Together they trapped her, forcing her to the ground. Kneeling, she fought desperately but her hands were trapped as they leaned over her.
"Aim for the face!" Gateau cried out loudly to everyone as he knocked out yet another one, making more progress than anyone else.
The command probably saved her life. Throwing back her head hard enough to see stars, she contacted directly. The demon howled and blackish blood ran copiously over its lips, falling to stain her hair and burn her eyes. It stank.
Put off balance by it all, she could hardly defend as the second beast grabbed her once again. Before she could move, its face was punctured by the garrote of her sisters. It howled and collapsed, releasing her. She shared a silent thanks with Chocolate then proceeded to fight once again. Chocolate looked to the side to locate Carrot.
The elder Glace had drawn his seldom used sword and was slaying the monsters with surprising strength. His arms and clothes were coated with the reeking blood but his eyes were far away.
More came, like a never ending flood. It was a losing battle, but they had known that from the beginning. They just need time. Time for Marron.
~*~
Everything and Nothing in the same instant; that was the heart of Genesis. Concentrate on nothing, be everything. He shut his eyes and mind against the battle raging only feet from him. The words of the spell were so ingrained they came without call or effort.
"Klohm paja-me aamanta sauku."
The power started to grow. He could feel it entering his body, summoned forth from the elements he commanded. Colors flashed through his mind. Red, blue, yellow, green, all gathering to his hands to glow in a white light.
"Namah buddhaham agraye."
He would think of nothing. He would not be distracted. Any misbalance of soul could throw the entire spell to bits and the user to death. Tranquility. Acceptance. Life. Balance. No worry. No wanting. No desire. The last line.
"To be..."
Carrot screamed.
"Genesis!"
And it was over.
~end?~
I know, kind of annoying not knowing the full story behind the little pieces, but if I wrote it all out this would be a novel.
Please Review
Her Supreme Omni-potence,
Miko No Hoshi
Notes, part 2, excuse: Yes, its very "dicey", skipping from scene to scene, its supposed to be that way, leaving little bits of confusion.
Notes, part 3, the plea: Please, please review and help the pitiful author figure out what to do....
For A Moment
Firmly an eight year old Carrot grasp little Marron's hand, pulling him behind the leafy bush. A red bird flitted to land in a nearby birch tree, chirping to interrupt the silence of the day. Big dark eyes looked up at him uncertainly, innocence radiated from the smaller boy but he shifted nervously from foot to foot.
"Niisan." He pulled his hand back to clutch it against his chest.
"Shhh," he stepped forward only to have Marron step back. "Stand still Marron, it's not gonna hurt."
Placing both his hands down on the boy's shoulder, he felt him shiver beneath the touch.
"Close your eyes." He did. Ever so slowly, Carrot brought his lips against Marron's; they were warm and soft and though it lasted only a second, he would never forget it. Pulling back, Carrot stared for just a moment before hearing an announcing cough from above.
There stood Apricot, looking angry. Carrot pushed Marron away suddenly. The smaller fell rather hard onto his bottom and began to cry.
~*~
Huddled in the farthest corner of the room Marron clasped his hands tightly over his ears, still he heard his mother lecturing Carrot. He was in trouble, so much trouble. Marron didn't understand; they had just wanted to see.
~*~
Carrot rubbed his backside and winced painfully. Apricot's hand was swift and hurtful. Now she had departed. Pressing an ear against the thin door, he listened.
"Do you understand?"
He couldn't hear the answer, Marron's voice was too soft.
"No! Marron, you just can't do that."
A whisper.
"Its not the same!"
If only he could understand.
"Its just wrong Marron! Its wrong."
She opened the door and Carrot scampered out of the way. He had already recieved his lecture and made his promises. Slowly, he opened the door to the room she had left. Marron made quite a pitiful site. He lay face down on the bed, clutching his cherished blue pillow and crying.
Carrot called his name.
Sitting up, he pushed irritably at the short strands of dark hair that hung in his face. His small white robe was disheveled and mussed.
"Niisan."
"Marron. You okay?"
He sniffled.
"Aw Marron, come on, stop that." He reached out to touch him only to see him pull back. "Sorry I got you in trouble."
"It's okay, Niisan."
"I still don't see why its so good when mom and pop do it but its so bad when we do it!"
"Its just wrong," he repeated.
"Yeah, but why?"
They were called for dinner and the issue wasn't mentioned again.
~*~
Ten years, for ten years Carrot had held tightly to that memory. The satiny robe beneath his fingers, the summer wind on his face, the warm lips beneath his own, they were all precious to him. He was almost nineteen now and he wasn't exactly sure when he had fallen in love with his brother, but it had happened.
Now it ate slowly away at his mind. To have this memory, just one, was torture. He wanted to relive it again, now that he could truly appreciate the moment. He wanted to know where Marron's hands would touch him, to know what that long hair would feel like beneath his fingers, to know what he tasted like. Perhaps he wanted more because he knew he couldn't have it.
Pushing the thoughts to the furthest corner of his mind, Carrot stood and exited the restaurant. Stepping onto the dusty street he saw Tira waving to him silhouetted by the dark clouds that loomed on the horizon.
~*~
Chocolate turned, pulling her garrote against the sorcerer's throat. His strangled cry was the last sound as his head rolled to bleed onto the gray floor. Quickly she ran to where the others gathered in a tight circle. In the center lay Carrot, chocking and coughing. His green shirt had been turned red by blood, most of it his own, flowing from the hole in his stomach attributed to an unexpected turn of the sorcerer's sword.
Red haired hung in his face as Tira desperately projected the healing magic. The white glow was fading as her power grew short. Falling back against Gateau she sighed and offered a questioning look. It may have been enough; it may have been just short of it.
A weak voice spoke up.
"M..marron..."
The mage leaned forward quickly. His pale face even more pallid. His hand shook as it reached out to run soothingly over Carrot's sweating brow.
"I am here Niisan." Leaning closer he looked directly into the dilated eyes that regarded him with uncertainty.
Carrot's arm lifted slowly, his hand gently grasped Marron's dark hair, bringing him close enough to feel Carrot's breath on his lips.
"I...I never told you..."
"Niisan," his voice was strained with tears that he wouldn't let fall.
Gently Carrot raised his head and brought his lips against Marron's. The mage's obsidian eyes widened, but almost as soon as it had happened Carrot fell back and into the blackness of unconsciousness.
~*~
The bright light of the morning sun made his eyes burn and he shut them tightly against its glow. His whole body ached to serve as an unneeded reminder of the last battle, it was crystal clear in his mind.
The door squeaked lightly as it opened to admit Tira, she carried a bowl of water in her arms. Seeing his attempt to focus on her, she quickly set aside her burden to settle on his bedside. She asked the normal questions and told him of the battle he didn't need to be told about. She apologized at not being strong enough to heal him right away, adding she had done so as soon as possible. The conversation ended with her relieved tears falling to dampen his bare chest.
He petted her hair and offered the comfort he could, but his mind was elsewhere. All he could see was Marron's worried face leaning over him, and then...then...
As hard as he tried he couldn't regret it.
Finally Tira stood smiling as she wiped at her tears, "Carrot?"
"Yeah?"
"I'm glad your okay." Quietly she pulled the door shut. He didn't see what her eyes had said.
~*~
With a small clink Marron sat the ceramic plate in front of Gateau and took a seat opposite him. Picking up his fork, he picked lightly at the eggs he had prepared.
"Eat." Gateau instructed. He had taken to the habit of watching over their resident silent mage. The boy didn't know what was best for himself and was likely to forget things like food and rest on occasions.
"Hm."
"Was that a okay hm or a not okay hm?"
"I just..."
"Carrot's fine you know, no one can kill that unbeautiful idiot." He shoveled food into his mouth and threw what he hoped was a comforting look across the table.
"I keep seeing him, laying there...the blood..." as he spoke he dropped his fork and pushed his plate away letting his hands fall to cross over his stomach. The mental image did nothing for his appetite. The night before had been so bad. He hadn't slept at all, sitting instead on his bed wishing his brother had been there. For years he had denied himself even the hope that they might have been something besides brother and now with what Carrot had done...
The blond reached a hand to touch his shoulder, barely feeling a slight shudder before the mage pulled away.
"No," he whispered. He stood and left the table.
Gateau sighed; he'd heard that answer for over two years since he first asked. His heart told him to keep trying but his mind, well, his mind was in agreement, causing him to wonder if the supposedly logical organ was biased.
~*~
The pain in his abdomen was almost gone. It had been so close. A little one way or the other and he wouldn’t have been standing staring out the window. The fall leaves wafted to the ground in a symphony of muted colors. The dusty road ran deep through the path that the trees shaded. He wondered where it went.
Belting his sword about his hip, he left to find out.
Feeling the breeze blowing cool against his face, he folded his arms and placed his hands behind his head. Sauntering down the road he allowed his mind wander to the events of before. He remembered Tira’s worried words and tried to decide exactly how much he had or hadn’t heard in her voice. So much emotions and he ruefully hoped it was just the stress of the situation and not...no, it wouldn’t do to delve further into that.
Coming to the clearing he laid eyes upon the small lake with trees leaning in around it. Leaves floated on its surface and moss claimed the edges, but the few spots that remained clear sparkled as if coated with invisible diamonds.
The log he sat on was rotting and none too stable, but it offered a view beyond belief, and so he took what nature offered and had a seat.
~*~
“Marron?” Chocolate stopped the mage as he was making his way up the stairs. His hand paused on the rail and he gave her an undivided attention that few others did.
He waited for her to continue.
“Um...have you seen Darling?” She had looked all over and was missing her glomping toy.
“Not recently.”
“Hmph,” she sulked a bit, turning to go back to her room.
Chocolate’s question sparked his own interest. Retracing his steps back to the lower level, Marron slipped on his shoes and stepped outside. Concentrating briefly, he located the direction in which his brother had gone. Tucking an errant strand of dark hair behind his ear, he started down the path.
Carrot faced away from him, starring intently the lake with a concentration foreign to his natural routine. His back tensed slightly as he felt Marron approach. Motioning, he indicated the spot beside him and felt the log move only slightly as the younger boy took a seat graceful as ever.
Silently they watched the sun settle over the distant hills in an array of purple, red, orange, and gold sttling into a clear, dark night that reminded Carrot of the color of his brother’s eyes. A single star shone in the southwestern corner of the sky.
“I wish I may, I wish I might...” Carrot sighed, longing for the days from whence the lines came.
“Have the wish I wish tonight,” Marron finished.
“Do you miss it?”
“Not really. It is the past.”
The moon was lodged firmly in the heavens and the wishing star lost among many others before they headed back.
~*~
Milphey knocked happily at the wooden door, his purple hair glimmered in the light and the bangles on his arm jingled lightly. His bright smile dimmed only slightly when it was Gateau who opened the door.
“Hello Gateau!”
“Um...hi.”
“Can I come in?” Only then did Gateau realize he was blocking the way with his more than adequately sized form.
“Sure.”
Milphey wandered in, admiring the cabin and making no attempt to explain himself. A yawning Carrot came into sight. His extraneous stretching was brought to a sudden halt as a Haze Knight latched onto his arm.
“Ack! Get offa me!” He turned and only succeeded in backing himself into the corner, which Milphey took full advantage of.
“Milphey.” Marron’s calm voice stopped the pursuit. The knight backed off while Carrot stood back up and tried not to think of the inappropriate places he had been touched. He waited for an explanation of the unexpected arrival.
“Oh, yes. I suppose you’d like to know why I’m here,” a few nods answered him. “Well, I know you’re all on vacation, but Momma sent me to collect Marron for a bit of training at the Church, if he wants that is...”
Marron thought for only a moment before nodding in agreement. Training at the Stellar Church meant training with Momma’s guard, a valuable experience always.
“Good, run pack your things while I visit with Carrot-chan a bit,” a purple eyebrow lifted slightly and Carrot was once again pounced on. Chocolate soon joined the fray, hurting Carrot more that helping from what Gateau saw as he took refuge pressed tightly against the kitchen counter.
~*~
“Concccentraaate Marrrrronnn,” Cinnamon guided as she sat cross-legged between the glowing lines of the pentagon with her student.
Marron’s brow creased with effort and the glow became a brighter blue, casting strange shadows in the dark room. A small smile spread across Cinnamon’s face; he was doing well.
~*~
The four Hunters sat around the table. They were all missing Marron’s culinary skills at the moment as they sat down to a dinner of soup, rather scorched, and salad, rather bland. Tira had tried her best though and everyone felt required to at least try to eat.
“It’s good,” Gateau chanced, lifting his fork once again.
“No, it’s not,” Tira admitted, looking to Carrot to deny it.
But Carrot’s eyes were unfocused and his mind was far away.
"Carrot?"
He jumped visibly, "Yeah, it’s fine Tira."
She blushed at his smile.
~*~
Someone shook him awake enough to realize it was still dark out. Trying to focus, he looked up into the stern face of Kahlua, another of Momma's Knights.
"You can not train if you're asleep, Marron." His voice was whispered and soothing, but the deep authority moved Marron into action as he stood and dressed by the light of the crescent moon.
Outside they stood on the dew-heavy grass as Kahlua showed him how to string and load the silver bow. An arrow flew through the air with a whoosh to land dead center of the target. He took off the string and handed over the weapon.
Marron took it a bit warily but he was not one to question. Taking the string, he stretched it up and it almost clasped only to snap back and hit his arm. Blood, made purple by the moonlight, flowed, but he received only a calm invitation to try again and expected no more.
~*~
Gateau walked slowly into the yard. He shed his armor and vest to let it fall to the ground before grasping the worn hem of his green shirt; he peeled it from his body. Beginning his morning exercises he felt the distinctive pull that something was missing.
Marron wasn't sitting on the porch watching what he called 'the beauty of a new day' and Gateau called the sunrise. Gateau hoped one day he too could see the beauty of a new day, perhaps reflected in those shining dark eyes. Marron would say yes; he had to.
Warding off the foreboding feeling rising in the deep pit of his stomach, he struck poses against the dawn sky.
~*~
Tira sank neck deep into the comforting water of the tub. Her red hair was piled daintily on her head and she had set aside the dark glasses, giving herself a curiously refined look. Lifting one shapely leg, she traced indistinguishable patterns on the cool tile with her toe. There was a sad expression on her face, murcurating between truly depressed and slightly wistful.
A knock at the door alerted her to the presence of her sister. Giving the okay, she watch Chocolate saunter in and sit indian style on the soft white rug beside the bathtub.
"Hi."
"Hi," she replied. This wasn't an unusual occurrence, for Chocolate often came to keep her company, a habit of little girls too grown up to bathe together. It was really just a chance for them to talk without other things getting in the way.
"You don't look so good."
Tira turned to cross her arms over the side of the tub and lay her head upon them. "I suppose I'm not really."
"Wanna talk?" She absently twirled a strand of Tira's hair between her fingers.
"No."
"Why not?"
"Its just not something I can talk to you about, that's all."
"Hm," Chocolate stood, "my little sister’s growing up."
"I'm already grown up."
"Yeah, I know."
The soft click of the door and then nothing.
~*~
Chiffon stood behind the mage and circled his arms around the boy's shoulders, cupping his hands. "Now!" He shouted.
Marron released the energy that had gathered in his hands. The ball of lightning flew across the room to separate into five parts, it crackled in the silence then collided to explode in an awesome boom. The two magic users were saved only by the shield Chiffon cast.
The Knight smiled a little even as Marron collapsed back into his arms.
~*~
A still shirtless Gateau walked into the kitchen. A fine sheet of sweat glistened on his muscled arms and chest. Opening the refrigerator he took a breath of the cool air before pulling out a bottle of water.
The weather itself was cooling and soon his workout would have to move to the indoors. He didn't really mind, because he had a little consolation. Soon after Gateau stopped working out outside, Marron stopped meditating outside. Instead of sitting far away among the tall grasses or a shady grove of maple trees, he would sit in plain sight in their living room, when they had a living room that was.
Once in mid-November Gateau had gotten up early for no reason in particular. Noting the chill in the air and the snow on the window panes he had lit a fire in the fireplace. Before the sun could rise, Marron came down the stairs and into the room. Glancing at the fire then at Gateau, he had simply settled onto the floor and closed his eyes. Never had Gateau watched such a personal moment of the mage, and he took in every minute of it for he thought it would never happen again. The next morning he came down to see Marron sitting in the same spot and it made him smile. From then on, it had been their winter tradition.
Now he longed for that time. It was the only closeness he could get.
~*~
The room rested in total silence. So quiet, it almost hurt. Rolling over on the wide bed, Carrot stared at the ceiling. He had been left alone with his thoughts all day and didn't appreciate their company in the least.
He couldn't help but think about what he was missing, what he was always missing. He was empty inside. What would it take to fill that void? Could he risk everything? He wasn't sure.
~*~
"No distractions."
"No distractions."
"I mean it Marron," Milphey spoke.
"I know."
"You can't do it without being sure."
"I am sure."
"Confidence."
"Confidence."
"Strength"
"Strength."
"No distractions."
"No distractions."
Looking into that face, he knew the boy meant it. It was necessary; it was all necessary.
~*~
"Chocolate?" She spoke through the darkened room.
"It's Carrot, isn't it?"
"Yes."
Rolling over, Chocolate looked at her younger sister. With a small sad smile, she admitted aloud what her heart already knew.
"He doesn't love me Tira. I don't know who it is, but its not me."
There were tears and she let them fall. Crossing the small space between the beds, Tira held the other redhead against her chest and let her cry. Chocolate had given her permission.
~*~
Opening the drawer he pulled out the faded picture. They were all smiling in the picture, it had been a happy time. Onion and Apricot sat beneath the tree, Carrot peeked from behind it and a very small Marron sat happily on the grass attempting to grasp the stem of a dandelion, Carrot remembered being five when it was taken, that made Marron no more than three. He also remembered what had happened after the picture. He had jumped from behind the tree, scarred Marron and made him cry. He could plainly see the large trees rolling down his ototo's cheeks even as Apricot had laid him across her knees for punishment.
When was the last time Marron had cried?
Perhaps when their mother died. Perhaps not. Why didn't he know?
~*~
The pentagon glowed as if on fire, it lifted into the air and shrank to a size no bigger than a dinner plate before releasing its energy to light the room in a sudden flash. Marron opened his eyes and let his hands fall from their poised position.
Standing against the far wall, Cinnamon simply clapped, slow and steady like the rhythm of a coming war drum.
~*~
He knocked on the door quietly before stepping inside. She was sitting on the bed with her feet tucked under her and her attention focused on the familiar hat that rested before her.
"Lunch is ready," he stated, wanting to go but somehow fascinated by the beauty of the woman before him. She was different, still.
"Thanks Carrot."
"Um, you're welcome Chocolate."
"No, I mean it. Thanks for everything."
Before he could respond, she hopped off the bed and proceeded to glomp his arm. The still moment was left behind.
~*~
The arrow shot strait and true. Even the rain that had begun to drizzle couldn't distract from the look of approval Kahlua gave him. Reaching for the quiver, he repeated the action.
Fifty silver arrows, one silver bow, no mistakes.
~*~
She looked carefully at the muscled blond before her, he stared back waiting for an answer she didn't have.
"I don't know Gateau."
"Anything at all?"
"Its just...this is Marron. He's so...."
"Alone."
"Yes, alone."
~*~
The magic burst forth, broke and reunited. He didn't waiver or fall and the shield was his own. Free magic, no wards, no focus, just power.
~*~
The four gathered once again at the kitchen table. No one spoke and there was an odd tension in the air.
~*~
Armor clanked as they settled before her. Big Momma sat at the head of the large table, it would be no simple dinner.
"If we go now before the other is strong....Tell me, can we win?" She asked, looking at them with concern.
"He is well trained with the weapon," Kahlua stated, folding his hands on the table and thinking a moment. "More time will not improve very much in that aspect."
She nodded.
Chiffon spoke next, "He learned faster than I thought he would. The necessary training was complete yesterday. With more time I could be more sure, but it is not worth the risked of the other's gained power."
Cinnamon looked up from rubbing a smudge off her armor. "I thinnnnk, he willlll doo wellll, the sssettt is reeeadyyyy."
A person of infinite patience, Momma waited for her to finish, "Milphey?"
His dark eyes were worried as he got up to pace a bit. "He's young."
"We have no choice Millefeuille."
"I know, I know. I think he can do it, but..."
"But?"
"Genesis requires absolute inner harmony, most often achieved through distancing oneself. However, Marron has always been distant and is yet to conquer the battle within. It may be enough...I do not know. I am sorry Momma-sama."
"It's okay Millefeuille. We will try."
Chiffon sorted through the parchments in front of him. Some held maps and star charts, other held ancient calendars, and still other were filled with his own soft writing. "We have three days, on the dawn of the fourth it will come and if the sun sets before we act, it will be too late."
~*~
"Nice to see you again Marron, did you miss me?" Gateau grinned as Marron walked through the door. He was taken aback just a little as Marron completely ignored him. "Don't I even get a hello?"
"Something is wrong Gateau. Get the others, Momma wants to see us."
"What is it?"
"I do not know."
~*~
Momma looked at her children. They stood still with looks of fear and uncertainty hiding in their eyes. They would go, they had said they would, but each was worried in their own way.
Carrot had given off chasing Dotta to hear the message, but now he resumed. He wouldn't think about it now and would ask questions later.
Chocolate stood quietly, hands tangling in her coat. She stared at the floor as her mind sorted all the information.
Tira's face was obscured by the dark glasses but Momma could sense her uncertainty. She worried more about the others, especially Carrot.
Gateau looked excited, his muscles flexed and his head was up and ready. But those ice blue eyes held many things and one of them was indeed fear.
Marron was blunt and got to the point, "How will we do it? If the Haze Knights couldn't then how do we have a chance?"
He spoke the doubt of the others. At one time Momma had held their unwavering trust, but after dealing with Zaha and finding her about the murder Carrot, they just couldn't anymore.
"You are our only hope Sorcerer Hunters. There is a spell that can that can defeat Eirnos but it is difficult and takes power. Marron, you will learn this spell, you already know the basic pieces. It will be essential that the rest of you fight back long enough to let him cast it. You can win if you work together."
"But Momma," Tira spoke, "why doesn't Milphey cast the spell?"
The purple haired woman shook her head gently. "My Knights have many powers Tira, but not this. It must be him. Now, we have three days. You may stay here at the church, prepare or rest as you like. Dotta."
The winged girl spun quickly from Carrot's grasp and led them away. Millefeuille stepped forward to speak.
"Big Momma, can we not go with them to at least help?"
"No. Its hard Milphey, I know, but you have fought Eirnos and lost, he knows you and would sense you coming. His psychic powers are strong. "
"As you wish."
~*~
Marron lay in bed and stared at the ceiling, it lines and cracks making a permanent picture in his memory. He was tired and half expected Chiffon or Cinnamon to rouse him for another round of training, but they did not come and neither did sleep.
His responsibility.
Something the Haze Knights couldn't do.
How?
Finally giving up on rest, he cast aside the quilts and slid off the bed. Foregoing his layered robes, he pulled on just the white pants and shoes, taking a moment to tie back his hair before its tendency to be a problem could be fulfilled. Picking up the bow and quiver, he stepped out the door.
The halls were quiet and every footstep on the marble floor echoed through their high ceilings. Soft voiced murmured through the walls but gave no indication of their origin. Suddenly the door he passed opened behind him. In the dim light he could barely make out the naked form of Milphey Yu.
"Wandering the halls Marron dear?" He asked with a smile.
"Just going out," he motioned with the bow in his hand.
"Hm, you should sleep, tomorrow's not going to be easy."
"Can I ask you a question?"
"You just did."
Marron made a small frustrated sound in response, he had never enjoyed verbal games with those who could outdo him.
"I'm only kidding. Go ahead, though I don't promise any answers."
"Of course. Milphey, why am I the one?" His words were chosen carefully as always and not stuttered in the least. His eyes met the other's and held him accountable.
"Fate. Destiny. God. Whatever you want to call it. You have the ability Marron."
"What ability? I /just/ learned how to cast a free form spell, I can not just conquer something like this!" His voiced was low and forceful.
Slowly Milphey stepped into the hall where his face was plainly visible, along with everything else. Marron fought the urge to run his eyes up and down the exposed form before him, he won, but not without a struggle.
"You see, each of the Haze Knights works by element, so we can each cast part of Genesis. You though," he reached out a hand to tip up Marron's chin and look strait into his eyes. "You don't seem to have an element Marron. You cast the Phoenix of Fire and the Dragon of Water almost in the same breath. I've seen you throw the Hurricane into action without a second thought and Cinnamon reported you knew the Genbu Earthquake. Its a rare thing to find a mage capable of two, let alone all four. True, you lack the expertise we four have found through the years, but don't think of yourself as less than you are." He was standing close now and Marron could feel the heat emanating from his body, it made the hairs on his neck stand up and sent a shiver through him.
Suddenly Milphey stepped back, "Don't get distracted."
Marron nodded and continued on his way as the door shut quietly behind him.
~*~
Her pink hair stood out in stark contrast to the night sky. He noted this as he walked out to join her onto the spacious balcony. She turned and saw him ,only to turn back again as he approached. Her glasses had been laid aside and bright ruby eyes questioned his presence.
"Its nice out tonight," he sighed, leaning against the rail she was sitting on.
"Yes, its pretty."
There was something he was supposed to say, he knew it, but he just couldn't bring it to mind. The silence was long.
"The stars are bright," she added, looking skyward.
Starlight, star bright, the nursery rhyme took up repeating in his head. "Yes."
What /was/ he supposed to say? Her eyes said it was missing.
"It seems everyone is up."
"Huh?" Ever tactful was Carrot Glace.
"Down there, isn't it Gateau and Marron?"
"Yeah, it is," he let his eyes wander to the mage.
The night's beauty couldn't compare to his. That was it. That is what he should have said. But the moment had passed.
~*~
He lifted the bow into position and pulled back the string. His sight found the target and in a split second the arrow was there. He heard clapping from the side. Surprised, he turned to see Gateau standing under a nearby tulip tree. The blond shoved his hands into his pockets and came over.
"What're you doin' up? Couldn't sleep?"
"Yes."
"Same here, but how would you with all the stuff Momma told us. I mean, monsters and time limits. I'm getting too old for this shit."
"You're only twenty-three."
"Still too old."
"Hm."
"What happened to your arm?" Gateau asked as he lifted said appendage in his hand. Marron realized it was still bandaged from a few days ago. He honestly hadn't thought of it.
"The string snapped."
"Ow," he winced in sympathy. Having spiked wrist bands, you got to know the feeling of getting hit by your own possessions intimately. Lowering his head, he placed a gentle kiss on Marron's arm, followed by another on his wrist and a third on the soft skin of his palm.
Marron's frozen eyes met his and in an instant they were locked in a passionate kiss. The moment lasted an eternity. They broke apart, trying to take in enough of the night's crisp air to breath. Gateau was overjoyed, that is, until Marron pulled from his arms, a terrible expression on his face.
"No," he said.
"But--"
"No!" For that moment, it had been Carrot, not Gateau who had held him. He retreated back into the confines of his room, fighting emotions that shouldn't have been there in the first place.
~*~
"Two days," Big Momma stated, looking down upon where her Knights stood, instructing Marron. They all turned to stare at her sad expression and mirrored it with their own.
~*~
"I have to tell him," she vowed to the mirror as she brushed her hair. Chocolate's reflection moved and Tira turned to look at her sister who had gone to stare out the window.
"Do you think..." she whispered. "Do you think it would have made a difference if /I/ had told him?"
"One-sama..."
"I'll smile for you Tira, when you're happy...I'll smile for you."
~*~
Carrot paced as he had done all morning. His legs ached with want of rest, but his mind refused to do so.
~*~
Pain. Pain was good. Sending another punch to rattle the tree, he felt satisfaction as he saw the blood flow freely. Gateau hit the tree again.
~*~
'"Tomorrow you will go Sorcerer Hunters. Tonight, do as you wish." Her voice said the rest, the last night, maybe forever.
They broke away from in front of the hall and Marron fell beside Kahlua.
"Not now Marron."
"Why?"
"You've worked hard. Go be with your friends."
~*~
"Carrot?" Tira stepped quietly into the darkened room.
The person she was looking for sat up on the bed and turned on a nearby lamp. His clothes were wrinkled and twisted; there were circles under his eyes.
"Are you okay?"
"Yes," he lied, it didn't sound convincing, but he didn't care.
Taking a seat on the edge of the bed, she clutched his hand in her own. His skin was rough with calluses, but warm to the touch as she knew it would be.
"I need...I need to tell you something."
Letting his attention fall from the questions that plagued his heart, he listened to her with full attention.
Reaching up, she lifted the dark glasses off her face and placed them aside, but her eyes didn't meet his. "I don't know when it happened, or even why it happened, but I've done something Carrot. Its not a bad thing, but it can be hurtful, and I don't want to hurt anyone. It made Chocolate cry and some nights, it made me cry as well, but now...I have to tell you."
Their eyes met, and for a moment, everything was going to be okay, but it wasn't.
~*~
Gateau didn't ask, being told once was enough for the night. He wanted nothing more that to take the small mage in his arms and just hold him. But he wouldn't ask.
~*~
Milphey sat quietly with Kahlua, neither spoke, but sympathetic company was good to have. They had failed the mission and now others might pay the price.
~*~
Chocolate wrapped her arms around her sobbing sister as they sat in sadness on the marbled floor. Thoughts of revenge fleeted through her head but were dismissed quickly. You could never harm the one you truly love.
~*~
Tira's words had thrown him into the reality of the situation. The last night; the last chance. Her tears hurt him but warned him too. Very soon they may weep together for last was a strong word and he did not intend to ignore it.
~*~
The silence ruled and Gateau fell asleep with its company.
~*~
"Marron, may I come in?"
"Of corse Niisan."
Carrot pushed the large door aside to see the mage silhouetted against the large window by the moon's light. His glowing raven haired hung over his bowed face, obscuring any expression that might have been there. Unsteady legs carried him to his brother's side. Reaching up, he pushed back the silken curtain to see eyes of trouble and concern.
Perhaps he was the cause.
Perhaps he was the solution.
Last.
~*~
Reaching across the cleared table, Milphey captured Kahlua's lips with his own. Milphey liked to keep very close company.
~*~
In the distance the red light of Eirnos whispered just over the horizon.
~*~
Shouting startled her into action. With Tira right behind, eyes still red, they went to see the disturbance of the night.
~*~
With long hair disheveled and wrapped in only a sheet which looked suspiciously like the ones another Knight kept on his bed, Kahlua stepped into the hall. It seemed the whole crew of Hunters had gathered there.
Tira and Chocolate clasped weapons in hand and stared from the right, an ultra alert Gateau from the left. Milphey stood behind him, perhaps a bit close for comfort.
The author of the shouts stood with his back pressed against the hard marble wall. Tears fell unheeded from his brown eyes, but the look he cast at the opposite door was cold.
There stood Marron. Turning his head to look at the floor he spoke with tones that sounded forced and angry.
"Of all times Niisan... Why? Why now?"
"Its our last night," he whispered.
Marron laughed, sarcastic and cold. "That's what you think? You have so little faith in me that you have to make confessions? You have to think about making everything okay and asking God to forgive you?" His eyes came up and he met Carrot's fiercely. "Don't bother making things right with a vindictive God, Carrot, worry about me first!"
The door was slammed and Carrot fell, saved from a nasty collision only by Gateau.
"What did you do Carrot?"
"I told him I loved him."
~*~
The door slammed and Marron slid down its surface. Starring at the moon he wondered why all of this had fallen on his shoulders. Everything he had wanted had just been offered and he had said no.
/Don't be distracted./
He hoped the universe was happy, because he damned sure wasn't.
~*~
The morning sun peaked just over the edge of the horizon, glowing an unnatural blood red. The Hunters gathered outside the church. No one had slept and now they did not speak just marched silently off to face their fates.
Chocolate mentally clutched at the picture now tucked into her skin-tight clothing. It was of Carrot and her when they were happy. That snapshot represented everything she had lost yet still what she fought for. With tears gone she looked fierce and strong.
Gateau clenched his fists, needing to feel the power, to know he wasn't helpless. What he wanted he could not have, but it would always haunt his sleep. He would fight for his mage even if the prize went to another.
Tira tugged at the edge of her orange suit. The whip felt heavy in her hands and her heart felt heavy in her chest. She still had tears to cry and fighting seemed near impossible. Still, she would follow him anywhere.
Carrot was silent. His playful expression had disappeared and had been replaced by one of permanent disappointment. He watched the ground as he walked. For eleven years he had lived on far fetched hope, and now it was dead. He wanted to die too, but he couldn't abandon his brother. Not now.
Marron's mind was empty. It had taken five painful hours of meditation but now he walked with cold confidence. He would win. He would not be distracted.
~*~
The shadow shimmered in the pure heat. Lesser demons danced behind him as Erinos laughed. It would be easy, so easy to conquer these foolish humans. He would win then he would slay those damnable Knights.
~*~
They stood together on the flat plane facing the rising sun.
"Now." No one was sure who gave the command.
Marron lifted his hands, fingers curved gracefully, in front of his chest and began to chant a spell none of them had heard before in a language they didn't know.
"Om maha samaye hrta-ah."
It began in a flurry.
Hordes of demons poured over the land. Their tall, thin bodies were blurred and covered in black mist. Elongated limbs ended in claws as sharp as the canine teeth that extended far beyond their mouths and lashed out to knaw at the flesh of anyone foolish enough to stand in their way.
Gateau grabbed one of the beasts, sinking his fist into its midsection. The warm not-flesh enfolded his hand, sucking and pulling it further in. Gateau yanked back, hard, and heard the disgusting wet pop as he managed to get free. His enemy smiled. Infuriated, Gateau went for his face, landing a blow directly on those horrid teeth. There was a cry of pain, not human nor like anything else the blond had ever heard. It was Gateau's turn to smile.
Ducking sideways, Tira narrowly avoided the shadowed thing as it rushed her. Another appeared suddenly at her side. Together they trapped her, forcing her to the ground. Kneeling, she fought desperately but her hands were trapped as they leaned over her.
"Aim for the face!" Gateau cried out loudly to everyone as he knocked out yet another one, making more progress than anyone else.
The command probably saved her life. Throwing back her head hard enough to see stars, she contacted directly. The demon howled and blackish blood ran copiously over its lips, falling to stain her hair and burn her eyes. It stank.
Put off balance by it all, she could hardly defend as the second beast grabbed her once again. Before she could move, its face was punctured by the garrote of her sisters. It howled and collapsed, releasing her. She shared a silent thanks with Chocolate then proceeded to fight once again. Chocolate looked to the side to locate Carrot.
The elder Glace had drawn his seldom used sword and was slaying the monsters with surprising strength. His arms and clothes were coated with the reeking blood but his eyes were far away.
More came, like a never ending flood. It was a losing battle, but they had known that from the beginning. They just need time. Time for Marron.
~*~
Everything and Nothing in the same instant; that was the heart of Genesis. Concentrate on nothing, be everything. He shut his eyes and mind against the battle raging only feet from him. The words of the spell were so ingrained they came without call or effort.
"Klohm paja-me aamanta sauku."
The power started to grow. He could feel it entering his body, summoned forth from the elements he commanded. Colors flashed through his mind. Red, blue, yellow, green, all gathering to his hands to glow in a white light.
"Namah buddhaham agraye."
He would think of nothing. He would not be distracted. Any misbalance of soul could throw the entire spell to bits and the user to death. Tranquility. Acceptance. Life. Balance. No worry. No wanting. No desire. The last line.
"To be..."
Carrot screamed.
"Genesis!"
And it was over.
~end?~
I know, kind of annoying not knowing the full story behind the little pieces, but if I wrote it all out this would be a novel.
Please Review
Her Supreme Omni-potence,
Miko No Hoshi