Shadowed Footprints IX

 

Illuminating Shadows

 

I have started another story but that does not mean I have given up on this one. Sorry I haven’t updated for ages. My computer broke and we couldn’t fix and ended up having to throw a shoe at it, which didn’t help either. Anyway, wow! 44 reviews (I know it says 42 but I checked my stats and it’s really 45 – sorry, I get touchy about review accuracy like that) To some 45 reviews isn’t much but to me it’s huge! It makes me so happy I want to thank my reviewers all over again. So……… *deep breath* thank you to Natsumi, profiler120, Saturnpyroprincess, Steahl, Empress Sarah-sama, Becca-Chan, swtrkgurlz, Spatula Girl, Lin-Lin, Sorceress Lixing, xgirlrogue, Dark Phoenix, No Name, MoogleChan, KawaiiMoonAngel, rose-chan, DiLLiRga, Innocent Dreamer, Kyria Star, Vain songbird of death and profiler120. You all make me smile and inspire me to write. I know the last chapter was a bit of a struggle to read with three gatekeepers but I felt Miyu needed a bit of resistance from Lethes before meeting him, and I wanted to incorporate the last gatekeeper somewhere. I’ll stop burbling and continue the tale. Super long chapter coming up. ^_^

 

*   *   *

 

“Greetings, Miyu. You have just walked into the lion’s den.”

 

There was a tense silence. The cold was closing in. Miyu’s breath hung in the air and she stared at Lethes. It seemed as though time had stopped. Her throat was parched, hands clenching and unclenching. There was a ‘swish’ as Larva’s nails lengthened. Lethes eyes paused at each face, as though carving them into his memory. His air of calmness unnerved Miyu. Finally she was forced to talk.

 

“Lethes,” her voice sounded lost. “Why are you doing this?” The question seemed to amuse her brother.

 

“Miyu,” he gave a small laugh and his eyes sparked with cold pronounced amusement. “You do not even understand what I am doing.”

 

“I know you want to kill me. I can tell that you wish that your hands were stained with my blood.” Her gold eyes flared. “But what I can’t understand is why.”

 

Lethes’ head flew back as he laughed. “Miyu, you are such a foolish and naïve god. See how the dark flees from the light. Well, if I destroy the light then the darkness will flourish.” He withheld a hand, the fingers arched and rigid as a small ball of electric energy formed between his fingers. “So, Miyu, now I must destroy the light, or you. Goodnight.”

 

There was a small explosion as thin needles of electricity pattered the wall behind as Miyu threw herself aside from the lightning darts. As she landed she twisted elegantly and began to run towards Lethes. It was a foolish move but as she neared instead of attacking she sprang upwards. Summoning a large red fireball Miyu propelled it to the ground where Lethes stood. He easily sidestepped it and smiled.

 

“So, you can fight, and you’re agile as well. This fight will be as interesting as it will be short.”

 

Miyu ignored the last comment. “Lethes,” she called. “Do you want the darkness to be unleashed? Do you want to make the world a place where monsters are spawned?” She studied his face. It was pale, almost drained and his eyes, though electric blue were like pits, and merciless. “Lethes,” she now whispered, “You are possessed.”

 

“Wrong, imprudent sister. I have been elated with wisdom. I found knowledge on my journey and began to see clearly. Humans are rather cluttered creatures. They are unpredictable and weak, yet we cannot rid ourselves of them. They destroy our lands and kill each other and yet as every year passes they find ways of keeping themselves alive longer and become more chaotic. But the darkness will seal the humans, forcing them to become strong, orderly fighters. At last the gods can be proud of ruling over a race, not this exhaustingly messy species.”

 

Lethes generated more electricity in his palm and let it stream upwards in forks. Miyu leapt from side to side, trying to doge the forks that lurched at her like cobras. Slowly she was driven into a corner. The lightning drew in like a cage. Miyu tried not to panic and summoned a fireball, throwing it into the light but it merely bounced off the electric strings. Lethes grinned triumphantly as the forks shot at Miyu, burying deep into her flesh. Larva cried out as he heard his love shriek in pain as the thunder branded her skin. The lightning fell away and a small curled up figure fell from the air. Larva flew forwards, catching her in his arms. Miyu was bleeding from great wounds in her arms and legs. Marks burnt deep into her skin and she whimpered whilst Larva cradled her. Slowly her eyes opened and Larva could see she was fighting back tears. Gently she slipped out of his hands to stand up yet leant against his tall frame to face Lethes. Her brother was merely smiling as usual.

 

“You’re strong. And yet you hurt all over. Why don’t you relent? Give up. You cannot-”

 

“SHUT UP!” Miyu was surprised at her own burst of anger. “I’m tired of gods saying I am weak! I may end up dying but I’m not going quietly!” A deep red aura surrounded her as she lifted herself off the ground. Holding out her hand she closed her eyes and the words came from nowhere. It was an ancient chant yet she understood. “Come tears confound. Up flame ignite. Now shadows shall be at mercy of your light.” Though her eyes were closed Miyu could feel a large energy generating in her palm, white fire erupting into a fountain of light. The darkness was close and she could feel the flame seeking it. She felt claws resting on her arm and opened her eyes a fraction to see the bright outline of an eagle flexing its wings. “Now, Lethes. Goodnight.” The eagle stretched its wings and took flight, diving straight for Lethes. Miyu’s brother panicked, sending streams of lightning at the birds but they merely bounced off his white feathers. Its beak was curved and deadly and with perfect precision it dived into his heart.

 

Time froze. It was a still picture. The white eagle vanishing into Lethes’ chest, a look of horror on the gods face. Miyu stared as time started again, the eagle flying straight through Lethes’ body and emerging the other side, except now it had a black jewel in its claws. Blood dribbled from the whole in Lethes’ side. Black blood, Miyu noted, stained the floor around him as he fell. Miyu approached him warily. Lethes rolled over feebly and smiled, his eyes narrowed.

 

“You are a fool, Miyu. You left the confines of your father’s palace where you were safe and came straight into my clutches. You may have killed me but now my master will avenge me.” His eyes momentarily left Miyu’s face and travelled to Satsu, who was still lingering in the corner. Miyu turned and cried out to see her lying motionless on the stone floor. “Yes,” Lethes hissed as the last moments of his life trickled away. “Soon your friend’s purpose will also be served.” A long sigh left his chest and Lethes fell still.

 

“Satsu!” Miyu cried and knelt beside the thief. Satsu was now white as a sheet, eyes red as blood and merciless. Miyu hugged Satsu’s neck and tried not to weep. Suddenly the thief stirred. Satsu choked and gave a violent shudder. For a moment it looked like she was going to be sick but she steadied herself and turned to stare blearily at Miyu.

 

“Miyu,” she croaked. “Go……… to the Gathering of the Gods……… Summon the Tsuki Ryu.”

 

“I can’t leave you here!” Miyu cried exasperatedly.

 

“Miyu!” Satsu suddenly grabbed Miyu’s wrist and her eyes seemed to focus sharply. “When Ranka spoke to me she told me………” She paused for a moment and a look of resentment passed over her face. “She told me this journey would take my life, but when it came to pass I would be happy. There’s a darkness growing inside me. The Mordrock Lethes sent was a scheme to plant darkness within me. You know what is going to happen.” She glanced at the white bird now fluttering to Miyu’s side. It lifted a pure white talon and out of its grasp fell a black diamond. “Hurry,” Satsu’s voice became rushed. “That diamond is the heart of the darkness. Soon it will hatch and possess me.” She looked up as a teardrop landed on her face. Miyu could not hold back the tears now. They streamed down her cheeks and splashed onto Satsu’s face. Larva gripped her shoulder comfortingly. Satsu glanced sternly at him. “Oi, you, the hostage.” Larva tried to give her dark look. “Make you sure you get Miyu safely to that gathering, okay?” And with that she smiled.

 

“Satsu………” Miyu murmured. “Is there no other way?”

 

“No, this is fate and fate has a cruel way. Now go, quickly!” The diamond was already stirring on the floor. The white eagle watched it piercingly. Larva tugged on Miyu’s arm and helped her to her feet.

 

“You need to show me where to go,” he whispered to her and she nodded dejectedly. They turned to leave, sweeping from the hall into the glaring sunlight. Miyu beckoned to the bird, which flew to her hand and vanished in a small burst of light. She turned to Satsu lying crumpled on the floor still watching them.

 

“Then this is goodbye,” Miyu said softly with sorrow. Satsu nodded.

 

“Goodbye, Miyu, Empress of the Flame.”

 

And they were gone.

 

*   *   *

 

Outside the winds had picked up, lashing the lands and bending trees. Miyu and Larva were at the weather’s mercy but the strove onwards down the mountain.

 

“Miyu, do you know where the summoning is?” Larva asked. Miyu didn’t answer for a long time. Her cheeks were still damp from her tears. She slowly shook her head.

 

“Not on a map, but my mother is calling me and her voice will guide me.” Larva wrapped his arms round her small form and they fought their way down the mountain. As they drew nearer the base there were traces of mist hanging in the air like silver curtains. Suddenly a few droplets of water fell from the sky. Miyu glanced up. “Rain? And it’s colder. How strange. Shouldn’t it be colder further up the mountain?”

 

The droplets grew heavier and soon the landscape was dark from drizzle. Miyu shielded her eyes from the water dribbling down her forehead but found Larva had already cast a hand over her face to keep it dry. They both looked up into downpour and as though someone had thrown open a window in time a space Quenta materialised before them. That explained the rain.

 

“Miyu!” he called down to her. “We’ve come to escort you to the gathering.”

 

“We?” Miyu glanced about expectantly. The wind picked up speed and grew considerably colder. Reiha materialised before them, her white robes flowing out behind her in the wind.

 

“Miyu, you beat us both to Lethes, but of course it was prearranged.” She gave Miyu an icy stare of denied defeat.

 

“What?” Miyu snapped back.

 

“That human you had with you was bait to Lethes, was she not?” Reiha asked airily whilst Quenta shot her a warning look.

 

“How did you know Satsu was bait?” Miyu hissed.

 

“It was obvious. Fate plays a lot of work in things concerning deities and everyone must have a purpose. Your role is obvious, Miyu and your follower has no doubt kept you alive throughout this journey, but what of the human? She was tainted by demon blood naturally making her vulnerable to the darkness. She is, or was a perfect way to link you to the darkness. I presume she’s dead now?”

 

Larva had to hold Miyu back as the fire god lurched forward angrily. Her face was contorted with pure unadulterated fury and Larva seized her wrist to stop her from casting a flame at her impertinent sister. Quenta stepped between the two acting as the older brother. “Miyu,” he demanded. “Time is pressing so we do not have time to argue. Was Lethes possessed by darkness?”

 

“Yes, and now he is dead but the darkness lives on……… through Satsu.” Miyu looked away, her eyes starting to burn again.

 

“Then we must make haste. To the gathering!” With those words Quenta reached into his robes and withdrew a long sword. The blade was stained blue and waves were carved up the blade. He brought it over his head and with one stroke slashed through the air before him. At first, it seemed like the sword had had no effect, but then the water god reached forwards and curled his fingers round a transparent curtain in midair. He drew it open and beckoned to Miyu. “Ladies first,” he grinned gesturing to Miyu but Reiha swept forwards through the gate without a second glance. Quenta scowled after her. “Really, if another one of us is going to become evil like Lethes it’s gonna be her.” Miyu smiled and floated off the ground, Larva just behind her. She paused beside Lethes and smiled warmly.

 

“Thank you, brother,” she whispered and disappeared through the curtain in the sky.

 

*   *   *

 

Miyu emerged into blackness. She turned this way and that but could find no light. Fear clutched at her stomach for a moment as it does to all who encounter the pure darkness unexpectedly. Suddenly a figure glided into the darkness behind her and clutched her hand. Miyu was thrilled as she recognised the touch to be Larva’s.

 

“It’s so dark,” she said quietly, as though fearing her voice would awake something from the murky abyss.

 

“Yes, but let us move forwards and maybe we’ll meet something,” Larva replied softly. He felt equally uncomfortable but not from the oppressive darkness but because this was a place for deities, not followers like himself. The was a soft flicker from behind them as Quenta appeared and sealed the curtain.

 

“Keep moving and we shall find the gathering,” came his voice from the gloom. Miyu uncertainly took a step forwards and was relieved to find solid ground.

 

“Brother?” she asked to Quenta. “How did we arrive here? What is that sword?”

 

“All gods receive their own weapons of their choice. They can sometimes receive them without realising it is their celestial weapon. This is Deddotaimu. It sounds like and means dead time. It can cut through the atmosphere creating a sort of warp gate to wherever I desire to go. It suits me very well and I have left my mark. You remember the waves on the blade. Whenever a god receives a divine weapon their mark appears upon it. It shows that the metal has moulded itself to your power. Quite useful really.”

 

“I never received a weapon,” Miyu said miserably. Her hand dropped to her side and gripped the katakana for reassurance. She paused. Gods received their weapons sometimes without even realising? That meant……… She drew the sword and suddenly the area was dully illuminated but enough so she could see the features on Quenta and Larva’s faces. A faint stream of flames flickered round the blade and raging torrents of fire were also carved along it as well.

 

“I see you have your weapon,” Quenta noted, his eyebrows raising slightly.

 

“I never knew. I mean, it was never like this before,” Miyu spluttered, her eyes still on the katana. It radiated a certain form of beauty. “But how can this be divine? I got this from Satsu’s mother! Her brother used it in the war!”

 

Quenta paused to think. “What was the name of this man?” he asked curiously. “It’s just that I recognise that sword.”

 

“I’m not sure,” Miyu murmured. “Neither Satsu or Maria ever said-”

 

“He was called Rick,” Larva suddenly interrupted. Miyu gave him a long stare. He shrugged. “I talked to Maria a lot in the bar,” he added quickly. Quenta was still musing the name.

 

“Rick, Rick. Hmm……… Ah, yes. I remember!”

 

“How can you remember Satsu’s father? He wasn’t a particularly important man!” Miyu exclaimed.

 

“Actually he was a very successful god thief. Stole only from deities.” Miyu couldn’t help but laugh. She could see where Satsu got her thieving streak. “I believe that used to be a famous war sword, but it mysteriously went missing and naturally only one thief could through divine locks and traps. Then the war of the mortal realms began and I believe Rick used that sword to kill his opponents. He would have been a deadly killer if he could handle a sword. Anyway, we’re straying from the point. Divine weapons stay dormant until they are recognised by their carrier. You have awoken your blade, now I believe you should name it.” Miyu looked up sharply.

 

“Name it?”

 

“All special swords need titles.”

 

Miyu thought and one word took her fancy. “Hibashira,” she proclaimed. “A pillar of fire.”

 

“Most fitting,” Quenta nodded. “Shall we continue?”

 

Miyu nodded again and set off. She glanced at Larva and whispered in low voice, her hand squeezing his, “Larva? You are so quiet. Are you not at ease?”

 

“I cannot lie to you, Miyu. This is a place for gods and don’t believe I fit in here.” Miyu smiled up warmly at him and rested her head against his arm.

 

“No one will give you trouble or else they’ll have me to explain too.” Larva laughed and strode on. Miyu glanced over her shoulder to see Quenta wearing the sort of expression any brother gives when he’s seen his sister showing public affection.

 

“More than just a follower?” he asked innocently.

 

“Oh, shut up,” Miyu replied good-humouredly pretending to smack him over the head. “I’m not the only one who takes a fancy to mortals.”

 

“Yes,” Quenta muttered darkly and hurried on.

 

*   *   *

 

A sound humming sound could be heard just ahead. Quenta paused and looked up, squinting. Miyu and Larva could also see a faint glow in the darkness. As they drew nearer the glow seemed to come from figures standing together in a tight circle. Miyu felt herself growing tired, her knees were buckling beneath her. The prospect of sleep was suddenly inviting.

 

“Larva,” she called tiredly and Larva suddenly swooped down to catch her as she dropped into his arms. “I’m so tired….. like my energy….. is being drained.”

 

“Fight to stay awake, Miyu,” Quenta called, though his voice sounded strained. “All the Gods are letting their essences flow together so they can call the Tsuki Ryuu. Our spirits are already being absorbed but we must get into the circle. You, her follower, help her get into line.” Larva nodded and followed the god. He could feel Miyu’s fire in his veins throbbing from the effort to stay conscious.

 

“Hush, Miyu,” he whispered to her and she moaned slightly. “Come on. It’s only a little further.” Miyu tried to get to her feet, leaning on Larva. She staggered to the ring of deities. Quenta beckoned her over to a gap. Even though Miyu ached with fatigue her eyes couldn’t help but widen a little as she saw who she would be standing near. Reiha stood by, a gap next to her presumably for Lethes, Quenta next to her and next to him…..

 

“Mother…..” Miyu mumbled as Saiyuna stood there, her robes floating round her, eyes closed, the mother of the elements.

 

Though Saiyuna did not speak Miyu could hear her voice. “Come, Miyu, my daughter. Join us and let your mind be at ease.” Miyu gently fell forwards and stepped into the space beside her mother. Larva stepped back obediently, though slightly jealous in a way that Miyu had probably forgotten about him. She was obviously the last deity to arrive and as soon as she stepped into line the humming stopped.

 

Pure unbroken silence fell across the gathering. Suddenly a small pinprick of light shot up into the air, breaking the clouds. The ground shuddered. Larva struggled to stay up but he noticed the gods didn’t seem phased. They still stood tall with calm looks on their faces. Larva suddenly felt something, not physical. It was a tug in his heart, a message from Miyu. He could almost hear what she was thinking.

 

‘So this is the end….. I wonder if Larva will miss me….. But it is the only way to stop the darkness….. But I don’t want to die…..’

 

Larva froze. Their faces, so calm and still, almost like they were….. dead. Larva lurched forwards. Did that mean that to call the Tsuki Ryuu all the gods at the gathering had to give their lives? He wouldn’t let Miyu die! Larva reached out to her when a sudden crash made him falter. It seemed to awake the gods as well. Slowly their eyes opened and they turned to face the interruption. Larva flew forwards and held her Miyu as her golden orbs opened.

 

“Miyu, why didn’t you say? Why didn’t you tell me you were sacrificing yourself?” He lifted her up in an embrace and pressed his cheek to hers, holding her so tightly as if afraid she would slip from his grasp.

 

“I thought if I told you, you would stop me. But you did anyway.” She seemed almost pleased he had.

 

“You didn’t want to die,” Larva murmured into her hair.

 

“I know, but it was the only way to stop the darkness…..” She trailed off as she peered over Larva’s shoulder. Larva felt her go tense. He put her down and turn and felt his own throat go tight.

 

In the darkness, lit by the glow of the deities stood a figure. It wore a flowing robe of murk and long black hair cascaded over his or her shoulders. He or she brought the cowl back with a pale hand and lifted its face for everyone to see.

 

“Satsu…..” Miyu whispered nearly in a lost sob.

 

“Who is this?” demanded a god clad in armour. “How dare you interrupt the gathering!”

 

“This is important,” Saiyuna said softly. “We are going to destroy the darkness.”

 

“But, she is the darkness,” Miyu nearly sobbed. All the gods turned to stare at her as she took a step forwards, Larva close behind. “Satsu, don’t you remember me?” Satsu’s face bore no emotion. “I’m Miyu, your friend, remember?” Satsu watched her draw nearer with narrowed eyes. Now Miyu was right before her. “Satsu?” Miyu reached out to touch her friend’s shoulder. Suddenly Satsu’s arm shot out and her fingers were instantly round Miyu’s throat. Miyu choked and a few of the gods gasped. Saiyuna started forwards but Larva was already there. Without hesitation he slashed at Satsu’s hand, nail’s drawn. He slit through her pale skin and though the wound was not deep she let go. Miyu fell back and touched her throat. All the skin around it was blistering and burnt. Her eyes were watery but not from the wounds.

 

“Satsu is dead,” Satsu said in a deadpan voice. Larva noticed no mark was engraved in her skin where he had attacked her. “This is only her exterior which I am using as a mask.” She turned to the gods assembled. “I have a proposal. I will let you walk away unscathed if you hand over the light.”

 

“What do you mean?” cried Akaiyu, the forest sprite. “Is that a threat? What do you want?” Satsu turned and her finger pointed to Miyu.

 

“Give me Miyu and you will all live.” Her hollow eyes sparked with dark electricity.

 

Quenta stepped forwards. In a quick movement he had drawn Deddotaimu with a soft ring of metal. “I’ll never surrender my sister,” he snarled. “If you want her you will have to fight past me!”

 

Larva stood up, scythe in hand. “And me.”

 

“I shall not let you harm anyone here.” Saiyuna had spoken and from her robes she drew a long sword. It flashed in the darkness red, blue, white and yellow. Fire, water, ice and lightning. The four elements. She held up the sword and it crackled with energy. For a women clad in so many flowing robes she seemed to handle the sword with an air of grace and precision. “This is Gogyou. It wants to taste your flesh.” She wafted it back and forth through the air, the blade humming.

 

Satsu merely smiled. “How foolish that you wish to fight me.”

 

“Are you that confident?” Saiyuna replied.

 

“Better I show you than tell you,” Satsu smiled drawing her old heavy long sword. Miyu twinged at the painful memories. However, she had little time to dwell on it before Larva flew towards her, arms curling round her body and carrying her to safety. Where she had been standing the floor was now charred and blackened. Satsu still stood where she was but no her face had become ugly with a scowl. “Curse your interference!” She snapped at Larva. Then her expression became a sneer. “Can’t the fire goddess defend herself?” she scorned. “Or are you too weak?”

 

Miyu froze. There it was again. Weakness, did everyone think she was weak? Satsu stared mockingly at her. “Let’s try again,” she said softly but next her voice sharply rose. “DODGE THIS!” She arched the sword over her head, bringing it crashing down, slicing through the air. The blade hit the floor with a deafening ‘thud’.

 

Then silence.

 

Rattling could be heard. The gods glanced about and suddenly something broke through the tiles. The head curled and twisted up, many black scales shone in the dull light, small crackles of dark electricity flickered over the body or a great black snake. A smile split over Satsu’s face.

 

“Goodbye, Miyu,” she waved cheerfully. “Remember to die!”

 

The snake lunged, three tonnes of scaly flesh shot over the floor as it charged towards Miyu. Larva shielded her but Miyu knew even he could not stop the oncoming terror. Miyu placed a hand on his shoulder gently, her eyes telling him to move aside. Larva hovered for a moment, torn between obeying his mistress’s orders and protecting her but she pushed him to the side.

 

Fear was pounding in her heart, her legs numb but she slowly raised her head, jaw set. Her liquid gold eyes flashed and she stared at the ebony snake.

 

Throat dry, she still managed to yell, “Come then, serpent of darkness. I am waiting for you!”

 

The snake reeled forwards, light caught one of his long silver fangs as it dived downwards towards her.

 

“Miyu!” Larva cried in horror and Quenta leapt forwards in shock but Miyu appeared hovering in midair. Hibashira was held out before her. The red flames glistened along the blade. The snake slowly rose and from the dark droplets spattering the floor the onlookers could tell it was bleeding. The snake seemed only slightly phased by the wound but its ruby eyes rolled in their sockets until they met Miyu’s.

 

“That hurt, didn’t it?” Miyu laughed brandishing the katana, Hibashira. “Do want to taste more steel?” The snake in reply spun round, it’s elongated neck twisting round Miyu’s form. This caught the goddess slightly by surprise and she struggled but could not move. Satsu, who had looked disconcerted when Miyu drew her sword was now smiling again.

 

“Crush her bones,” she ordered, emphasising the word ‘crush’. The snake began to twist but suddenly froze. It’s coils came unravelled and Miyu stood limply in the air. She was out of breath and positive a few of her ribs had cracked but still standing. It took more than a few broken bones to get a god off their feet. Larva saw she had released a white flame around her body and she glowed, bathed in a somewhat holy aura. Her eyes opened.

 

“You’re afraid of the light,” she said so softly that the deities gathered could only just catch her words. She paused and spread her arms wide, mainly to test whether they still worked. “Well you should be!” Spinning her hand in a complicated gesture leaving a trail of silver in the air in the shape of a plumed bird. “COME!” she called. “HIKARICHOU!” (That’s a mix of the word light and bird. I’m not a Japanese linguist so I can’t confirm if that works as a word.)

 

A dull continuous note hung in the air for several seconds, then suddenly a bright flash illuminated the area and even the gods were forced to shield their eyes. As the light dimmed back into emptiness Miyu could be seen standing, as though in a deep sleep, her arm out held and a small flickering fire comprising of pure white flames seemed to be sitting in her arm. As the fire took form all assembled realised it was a white bird. Miyu bent to whisper in its ear an ancient tongue. Only Larva could understand what she was ordering it to do, for he could see into her mind via their connection.

 

“Go!” Miyu called and Hikarichou took flight, soaring over the gods’ heads. The bird flew straight at the snake and simultaneously began to pierce its skin. Both divine creatures seemed evenly matched, the snake was slow so open to attacks but its coils were thick so it could withstand the numerous attacks. However, nimble as Hikarichou was one blow would surely finish the bird. Larva’s eyes darted from the creature’s battle to Miyu who was now advancing on Satsu, the blade held before her. Satsu remained calm.

 

“Would you really,” she asked, her eyes widening innocently, “Strike down your friend?” Miyu faltered but she knew this was a mind trick.

 

“You are not my friend….. anymore,” Miyu snapped, though her words were more for reassuring herself. “You are not Satsu.”

 

“Miyu,” tears sprang to Satsu’s eyes. “You say such hurtful things.”

 

“Be quiet!” Miyu shouted, feeling her own eyes starting to run. Satsu had now fallen to her knees.

 

“The dark is controlling me!” she wailed. “Please help me, Miyu! You’re my friend! I look after you!” Her tears splashed onto the floor. “I’m in pain! I’m dying!” She looked up, her cheeks damp and Miyu was suddenly looking at her precious friend.

 

“Satsu?” her voice trembled.

 

“Miyu.” Satsu reached out, her fingers stretched. “I’m crying inside and out. Please help me!”

 

The sword clattered by Miyu’s feet, bouncing on the cold floor. She began to hurry forwards, her own hands reaching out to Satsu. She wanted all this to go away. She just wanted to talk to Satsu, to help her dear friend. Larva started forwards.

 

“Miyu!” he called out warningly but the fire goddess could no longer hear.

 

Miyu fell to her knees before Satsu, taking her hand. Through the thief’s streaked tears she managed a weak smile. “Thank you, Miyu,” she whispered. She leant closer and the soft yet sorrowful face became one of malice. “How stupid to fall for the simplest trick in the book.” Miyu’s eyes widened as Satsu’s black sword was suddenly in her hand and in one clean swipe the blade passed through the air where Miyu was kneeling.

 

Or it would have passed through Miyu if Larva’s quick reflexes had not arrived in time. He could see through the clever ploy Satsu had set up and his finger’s curled round Miyu’s waist, pulling her backwards. She avoided being completely bisected but the tip passed through the front of her robes and a burning sensation whipped her stomach. She didn’t notice it though but instead clung to Larva to hide her tears, for now she was really crying, thin rivulets of water spilling down her face. Larva held her close, as her fists clenched over his robes. He could feel the emotions running through her mind, fear, confusion, deep sorrow and hatred.

 

“Larva,” she murmured. Larva touched her cheek affectionately. “I want this to end. No more. I just want to live my life with you. I hate this! Why won’t it end?”

 

“Miyu,” Larva whispered. Miyu closed her eyes, feeling herself calming by the mere sound of his voice, the deep echo in his chest. “This is a battle that must end, so why don’t we finish it?” Miyu looked up. Then she smiled and nodded. Larva released her from his embrace and she turned and stooped to pick up her sword. Facing Satsu a new deep loathing came to mind.

 

“I hate you!” she shouted. “You kill my brother and then my friend and try to deceive me! I won’t be fooled! I hate you!” She charged, Hibashira held straight ahead of her. Satsu rose and slashed at her but Miyu spun easily to the side. In a quick moment she swiped at Satsu, her own red blood spraying from her wound. The blade caught Satsu on the side and soon black blood mixed with red on the floor.

 

The two  girls now began to dual, and fiercely at that. Miyu jabbed and swung with fury and spun aside to avoid Satsu’s attacks whilst the thief sliced the air and blocked. There was a crash of steel scraping on steel as the two swords meet. Miyu gritted her teeth, not letting Satsu’s blade give way. She could feel her foot slide slightly from the blood on the floor. Satsu suddenly leapt back and swung. There was no time to dodge or block. Miyu instantly dropped her sword and clapped her hands together, catching the blade between her two palms. She could feel the darkness burning her skin but did not move. Satsu wrenched the sword from Miyu’s grasp and spun away.

 

Miyu leapt back, retrieving her sword and skidding forwards to meet Satsu. However, the thief had discarded her sword. She now waited as the fire goddess drew closer and closer. As Miyu drew level with her, Satsu’s hand shot out and connected with Miyu’s stomach. An ordinary punch would not have affected her but as Satsu drew her arm back black and purple sparks glittered round her fist. She had driven a spell into Miyu by force. A spell so dark and murky Miyu could not help but cry out in pain as she fell to her knees. Her entire body was burning so much she could not help but weep. Her fists clenched and she clutched at the stomach.

 

Everything was becoming hazy.

 

She could vaguely see Larva running to her side, holding her hand desperately.

 

Quenta yelling in rage. Running at Satsu.

 

Another burst of energy.

Quenta now lay still.

 

Larva was grasping her hand. He looked frightened. She couldn’t imagine Larva being frightened.

 

“Miyu,” he was calling but his voice was distant.

 

“Larva,” she croaked. Everything was fading fast. She tried to grasp onto life but it was slipping through her fingers. “Larva,” she called out again but she wasn’t sure whether she had spoken or not. He was slipping out of focus. “Come back…..”

 

Darkness.

 

*   *   *

 

“Miyu!” Larva grasped her hand but it had fallen limp. She was so cold, it was unnatural for any living thing to be so cold. The serpent of darkness had fallen in the corner and Hikarichou had been sitting proudly on its spoilage but now the white bird seemed to have been wilting ever since Miyu fell.

 

In the corner, Satsu laughed dully, and wiped a fleck of Miyu’s blood off her chin. “Well, that’s one obstacle out the way.” Quenta twitched dully from the floor and rolled onto his side.

 

“Miyu, you killed my sister,” he moaned.

 

“She’s not dead, yet, but she soon will be,” Satsu said without a care. “I have sent her weak into the darkness where she will fight her inner demons. She cannot win though.” Satsu gave a small laugh. “Goodbye, Miyu.”

 

Satsu suddenly sprung aside as a sword crashed down where she stood. Saiyuna rose calmly but her eyes were icy. “You have killed Lethes and my daughter, and now my younger son is dying. Three lives taken, they have to be repaid. I shall avenge my children with your flesh!” Satsu smirked and drew her own sword. Saiyuna darted forwards spinning round the Satsu’s sword jabs and twirling her sword so expertly it looked more like a part of her that moved instinctively than a skill. Satsu was no longer smiling. Saiyuna looked slow but in truth she agile and deadly. Satsu would need to keep her defences up.

 

As the swords rang Larva clutched Miyu’s hand and refused to let go. He refused to let go of Miyu’s life. For once he felt mortal, as he had felt when he was a watchman. All his senses were no longer sharp and the sounds seemed to mingle together like a bad record. But through all the noise he could a faint stirring in his own veins. Miyu was fighting to live.

 

*   *   *

 

The darkness was so black it made even the night sky seem like a beacon on the horizon. The air was warm yet full of torment. Murkiness and sorrow closed in. But among all the shadows and a white figure was curled up.

 

Miyu pressed her head into her knees. She felt like she was in a mother’s womb, yet this was not a good feeling for she felt like she was sharing the space with a man-eating cobra.

 

The darkness was becoming tighter, she was suffocating, her own throat seizing up. A dull choke shook her body. She was being swamped. All her bones ached and she reached out desperately to push away at the darkness. It was not very effective but now she could breath.

 

All her skin was burning, yet when she tried to summon a flame….. nothing. Glancing up Miyu saw something writhe in the darkness, stirring fear in her heart. Suddenly  two reed eyes clicked open. She didn’t understand how she knew but Miyu could tell this was a demon, her inner demon.

 

So, she pondered, a portion of darkness resides within us all.

 

The demon was creeping closer, edging along the blackness on it scaled belly. Miyu couldn’t dodge out the way. She was suspended in darkness, held by invisible strings. She tried again to summon a flame, just a small one but nothing came.

 

The demon was now before her and in one smooth motion it glided through her. Miyu wondered why she wasn’t alarmed and even though no mark was left she felt herself plunge a little further towards death.

 

So I’m not dead, Miyu thought. That’s encouraging.

 

She concentrated on that thought. Not dead means I’m alive. Think of life. She tried but the more she thought about the aspects of life the quicker they trickled away like water through a sieve. She suddenly glanced down at one of her hands, her left hand. It felt warm, as though someone was holding it. Suddenly the fire in her blood stirred and breaking the silence she said, “Larva…..”

 

The memory of Larva flickered through her mind. So, that was life. That is life. The warmth in her veins grew, her eyelids closed and suddenly she could breath easily and cleanly. Opening an eye a crack she saw the darkness retreating and the demon burning. If it had a mouth it would be howling as the white fire consumed it. That was one demon. To destroy the actual Dark she would need much more firepower.

 

What was powerful enough to abolish the Darkness? One thing sprang to her mind. The Tsuki Ryuu. But you had to die to call it, she thought disappointedly. Suddenly she paused. But wasn’t she pretty much dead anyway? So if she called the Tsuki Ryuu she would have to come back to life?

 

She leant back and gazed into the darkness, letting her mind wash away. She could remember the feeling, letting her soul float away and her body melting into nothing. As she drifted away a thin trail of gold left her body reaching up through the blackness. Voices could be heard, but were they singing or calling? Suddenly silence.

 

Then a reply. Her body was still melting away but now she felt like another heartbeat was throbbing inside her chest. She sat up, her eyes flicking from left to right and she saw Hikarichou lying before her. Its form however had become a ball of fire, which was increasing, the flames licking outwards. And it took form.

 

White scales, pearly claws and teeth with a lizard muzzle and two great white-feathered wings bursting from its shoulder blades the Tsuki Ryuu stood before her. But it was no longer the Tsuki Ryuu. It had been born from Hikarichou so that meant it was now Hikariryuu (light dragon). One icy blue eye regarded her closely as the great lizard bent its knees, gesturing for her to mount it.

 

Timidly Miyu approached Hikariryuu and placed a hand on its scaled shoulder. White fire formed around her feet and travelled up her body. Soon she was engulfed in flames, as was the dragon. The dark was vanishing around them.

 

*   *   *

 

Saiyuna swiped through the air and Satsu leapt back but lurched forwards again to slice at the Goddess of Elements. Larva was silent, watching Miyu’s still face with no expression. He was beyond tears, beyond sobs, beyond mourning, just numb. He could he have let her slip away? This didn’t need to happen to Miyu, innocent Miyu.

 

Miyu twitched. Larva froze. Her brow wrinkled as though she was making a mental effort. Suddenly she sat up and her eyes flicked open.

 

“Miyu!” Larva cried and Saiyuna and Satsu instantly halted their sword fight. Miyu didn’t seemed to hear or see. Instead she rose to her feet and flew backwards to perch on…..

 

“WHAT?!” Satsu snarled as Miyu sat upon the shoulders of a great silver dragon. The dragon watched Satsu unblinkingly.

 

“Jouzai!” Miyu called. “Cleanse the world of darkness!”

 

The Hikariryuu lifted its head back, showing a gaping maw lined with white jagged teeth. A small ball of white fire formed but it grew and grew until it filled its entire mouth with white light. It stared at Satsu and her pupils contracted.

 

“No-” she started but it was too late. The fire burst forwards and shot straight through her. Satsu’s body was left standing lifeless in midair for a moment before falling to the ground. The fire however seemed to be carrying something amidst it’s flames; a dark black gem. It was then that Miyu ran along the dragon’s back and leapt from its shoulders. As she soared through the air she unsheathed her sword. The blade was now a brilliant blinding white, like a shard of sunlight. She flew towards the gem and stabbed down. She landed on the floor, gem still at the tip of her sword. There was a paused, and then a crack as the gem snapped in two.

 

Miyu looked up and a half smile formed her face. “It is over.” Then she fell.

 

*   *   *

 

Miyu’s eyelids fluttered as she slowly came to. They were still in the gathering clearing but it was emptier. Only Saiyuna and Larva were near. She was resting in the delicate black folds of Larva’s cloak and felt at peace. Occasionally he would stroke her forehead with long gentle fingers and rock her sleeping form. Her mother spoke.

 

“You are Miyu’s follower?”

 

“Yes.”

 

Saiyuna smiled briefly. “I am glad. She needs someone to love.” Larva started but then relaxed, caressing Miyu’s cheek. Saiyuna turned to leave. “I must go. Two of my sons are dead and I have pressing matters.”

 

“Mother?” Miyu croaked. Larva jumped and looked down lovingly. Saiyuna paused and turned round. Her eyes were smiling yet there was sorrow.

 

“Miyu, I am proud. You are a strong god to summon the Tsuki Ryuu yourself. However, both your brothers are dead.” Miyu felt a spasm of sorrow at the loss of Quenta.

 

“Who will rule over lightning and water now?” she asked quietly.

 

“Their reincarnations are being born as we speak. You are no longer the little sister. You are now the second oldest child of the elements. I must leave, but I trust you will give Satsu a good funeral.” Saiyuna turned and vanished in a blur of air.

 

“Satsu!” Miyu sat up but Larva pressed her down again into his arms.

 

“Hush, she is lying soundly over there. You must get your strength back.” Miyu nodded and lay back in his arms. Sorrow was aching in her chest. She had fled from her father, her mother she rarely saw, her brothers were dead and now her best friend had also joined their grave. She bit her lip but could hold it no longer. Sitting rapidly up she flung her arms round Larva’s neck, pressing her face to his cheek and cried to all her hearts content. Larva wrapped her up in his arms and let her spill her sorrows.

 

*   *   *

 

Miyu gazed down at Satsu’s lifeless body. She was pale but her expression seemed finally one of peace. She had cried and cried for what felt like hours but now she just leant against Larva’s side. Raising her hand she cast a red flame at Satsu, which immediately engulfed her body. As the smoke rose to the heavens. She rose to kiss Larva’s cheek.

 

“You’re all I have left,” she murmured.

 

“No, you shall befriend others, but I will always stay closest by you. You are a fire goddess.”

 

She sighed and held his hand as he draped her cloak round her. In the flickering firelight Miyu finally felt at peace.

 

“Larva, promise you’ll always be near, I love you.”

 

*   *   *

 

 The End

 

But an epilogue will follow…..

 

I am going to do an epilogue just to wrap things up. But sadly the main story events have finished. I can’t promise the epilogue will be very long but I’ll try! ^_^ Sorry, there may be few spelling mistakes because I didn’t fully check the entire story. If you spot any just mention it in your review (You will be reviewing? *looks hopeful*) and I’ll fix it ASAP.

 

 

Next Chapter…..