A/N: This was the first story I ever completed and I, regretfully, have not been able to go back and take it through the editing process... So I apologize for any grammatical errors that have been overlooked.

The Tournament

Page 1

In a world called Caliovix, in the Celestial Galaxy, lived a race of beings called Mystix. The Mystic race were as gentle as lambs but they possessed the fury of dragons. They closely resembled humans, but each Mystic’s hair and eyes matched, in any color, no matter how extreme. It was this trait that gave them a mystical look. Myst out of the mystical and Ix out of Caliovix gave them their name. Many different races and worlds disliked the Mystix due to the fact that they had powerful magic and massive strength, except for two, a Mystic had one or the other but not both...however this was untrue for the King and the Princess of the planet.

The King’s name was Sapphireon and his daughter’s name was Alisia.

Sapphireon was the most powerful being on the planet and his daughter was close behind. King Sapphireon had dark sapphire blue hair and eyes, his eyes were feline shaped and his hair reached just past his shoulder blades in elegant wispy strands. The King was tall and muscular but still on the lean side. He was tanned to a light brown and his eyes sparkled. He had a kind face that could still bring fright if it wore an expression of anger. As an earth woman had once told him, he was ‘Tall, Dark and Handsome.’

Princess Alisia was different then any other Mystic on the planet.

Although she had the purest of blood lines she had golden brown hair and light stormy blue eyes. Her hair was thick and ever so slightly naturally curled and just reached her shoulders. Her full lips were a natural light pink. Her stormy blue eyes were big and slightly cat shaped, and her lashes were long. According to her mood the shade of blue in her eyes changed although the detail always stayed the same. Alisia had soft, smooth alabaster skin. She was thin and tall with a voluptuous figure. She was sweet, beautiful...and dangerous and hot tempered.

Their kind was known for their fighting and wizarding Tournaments.

Of course, the King did normally win unless he decided not to compete.

But, even if he did not he always chose a good warrior or wizard to go in his place as his champion. Creatures from all over the universe came to compete and/or watch the Tournament.

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The Princess, however, was not allowed to compete even though she had been training since she was five years old. Every year she would plead with her father to let her join the Tournament, but he would refuse. She would tell him it wasn’t fair and he would reply with a smile and a life’s not fair and wave her off.

Tournaments were held once a year, and it was Tournament time again...

“Father!” Yelled a young woman dressed in a medieval evening gown. It was a stormy blue with gold, green, silver, and light and dark blue threaded in the mesh layer that lay upon the silk. The dress hugged her upper half, the sleeves were long and reached the back of her hands where they lay in a triangular shape. The neckline dipped moderately low and was a square cut. The dress fit like a second skin around her thin stomach. When it reached her hips it puffed out with folds of the material it had. The matching high heeled sandals she wore could barely be seen as she walked. Her hair had been moussed into tight curls and gathered at the top of her head, where a few strands hung elegantly down from her white gold tiara that had a fairly big marquee cut diamond in the middle with one similar cut blue sapphire on each side. Her full lips were painted with a creamy irredesant shiny lip gloss. Her eyes where thinly outlined with black, black had also been applied to her long lashes and her eyelids were shadowed with a light blue sparkly powder. The young princess was the picture of perfection and she was at the bottom of the castle’s grand stair case pacing and yelling for her father.

Sapphireon sighed and shook his head while walking along a corridor that lead to the stair case. He was dressed in dark sapphire leggings and a flowing white poets shirt, along with black leather boots that reached his knees and behind him was a black cape that flowed like liquid through the air. His hair was tied with a white leather cord at the nape of his neck with one small section of hair framing each side of his face. Atop his hair was his golden crown that had jewels of every shape, size and color all around it. His shirt was open to just above his abs so his circular pendant encrusted with many little diamonds and sapphires could be seen upon his toned chest. He walked down the stairs and stopped before his daughter.

“What is it, Alisia?”

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“Oh Father! I cannot find my bracelet that you gave me last year.” Her melodic and slightly accented voice drifted with worry through the room.

“Oh. Do not worry, love. It will show up, I am sure.” Sapphireon smiled at his daughter. “You look absolutely beautiful, dearest.”

Alisia smiled with delight, showing her perfect white teeth.

“Thank you, kind sir. And may I say that you look positively handsome.”

The two laughed. He held out his hand to her. “Shall we?”

She placed her hand in his. “We shall.”

They walked towards two magnificently carved oak doors and paused. Trumpets blared and the room fell silent.

“Majesties, King Sapphireon and Princess Alisia!” Said the announcer loudly, his voice echoing through out the vast, elegant ballroom.

The two royals smiled elegantly as the sea of people in numerous colors bowed. Slowly and gracefully the two made their way to the thrones that sat upon a platform at the end of the room. Once they reached it, Alisia sat as her father began his speech.

“Friends, you are all here to watch and/or compete in this year, the year 2842’s Tournament. This year I will not be competing,” He paused a moment then continued, “The champion I have chosen is,” He paused again for suspense, “My daughter, Princess Alisia.”

The crowd erupted into whispers and gossips.

“You cannot possibly be serious, Sapphireon!” Yelled the king’s advisor, who had fiery red hair and eyes to match.

“I am serious.” Sapphireon said slowly.

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“But, she is a princess, look at her! She could not have enough power to last the first trial.” Cried a tall, skinny woman in the crowd.

“I am very aware that she is a princess and I am willing to let her prove how much power she has, for even I do not know.” The king stated, losing patience.

“She is no challenge. She could very well be killed, like her mother, you are a fool!” Cried a short, fat man.

“That’s enough.” Yelled Alisia, standing from her throne.

“None of you have the right to question my father’s authority. Most of you are not even of this planet, you are but visitors, and for the rest of you, this is your king. Now leave it be! It makes no nevermind to you!”

Alisia turned on her heel and went through the closest door and let it shut with a loud bang that echoed through the room.

Sapphireon stood, he looked around slowly and gracefully, everyone bowed before him. He spoke quietly, but his voice echoed in the massive hall.

“The registration will be held tomorrow, this will not happen again.

You are not tolerated to upset my daughter or undermine my authority. That is all.” With that the king turned and walked out the door his daughter had recently gone through.

The king knew where his daughter would be, a place she always went when something was bothering her. After a few minutes, he began his journey through the labyrinth-like halls and came to stand in front of a closed door. Sure enough, when he listened, he heard the distinct sound of punches and kicks being placed on a leather dummy. He entered the training room without knocking. Alisia didn’t pause or look up, for she knew who it was.

“How could they place that little respect and faith in me!?” Alisia cried.

“Calm down, dearest.” Said the king, as he leaned against the wall and was carefully eyeing the techniques that his daughter was administering on the dummy.

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“Calm down!?” She yelled. “She is a princess, Tis but a woman, she is weak, she is no challenge, she poses no threat!!” Alisia turned her body that was now clothed in a earth-like black workout outfit, into a swift spinning back kick, which sent the two hundred pound dummy sailing across the room, trailing sand all the way.

“Better?” Asked the amused king. With a delicate flick of the wrist, the sand and the tattered dummy vanished and in it’s original place stood a brand new duplicate.

“Father, my own people have no faith in me. And I am the one that eventually will rule them.” Alisia slumped against the opposite wall, frowning.

“Alisia, they are only worried. Of two things, that you’ll lose and that you’ll win,” He noticed the confused look on his daughter’s face and continued. “It means that they are scared that you might get hurt, and they are scared of what it could mean if you win.”

“Thank you, Father. For allowing me to compete. I have always wanted to, and I will make you, perhaps not the people, and I proud.”

Alisia gave her father a hug and walked out of the training room.

With another flick of his wrist, Sapphireon was transported to his study with a fire blazing in it’s fireplace, sat down and started to read an old leather bound book.

Alisia walked to her chambers and into her dressing room and closed the door. She peeled off her sports outfit and her tennis shoes. And let down her hair from it’s ponytail. There was already a bath drawn, so she sunk into the steaming liquid. She lathered up her body with soap and washed her face. She washed and rinsed her hair, and gracefully got out of the fairly large pool of water. Alisia stood, and with a flick of her wrist, the tub was clean and empty. She grabbed the night gown that laid on the vanity table. It was a red crimson satin slip that had spaghetti straps and reached mid-thigh. Her wet curls framed her face after she playfully shook her hair. Alisia smiled at her reflection and walked out of the dressing room and into her bed chamber. She lit about a dozen ‘Beloved Fate’ scented candles and slipped into the satin sheets on her huge canopy bed. Just as she was about to drift off into the dream world, she heard a noise.

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Slowly, Alisia opened her eyes and listened. There it was yet again, that scuffling noise. The princess sat up in a sitting position in the bed. She held out her hand with her palm facing the ceiling.

“Reveal.” A small yellow light zipped from her upraised palm and over to a curtain by one of the windows and hovered, waiting.

“Bind.” Alisia stated as she closed her open hand. The yellow light flew into the curtain and Alisia heard a muffled ‘oof’.

Alisia made a ‘come here’ motion with her index finger and a figure dressed in a black cloak was literally dragged by the small yellow light, into the open space by the foot of Alisia’s bed.

Alisia waved her hand, as if to brush something out of the air in front of her and said, “Diminish.”

The figure quickly stood and with a flick of Alisia’s wrist, it’s hood was thrown back.

It was a young man around Alisia’s age. He had spiked platinum blonde hair and crystalline blue eyes, his features were elegant and smooth.

One thought wormed it’s way into both their minds as they looked at one another.

Wow.

“What and Who are you?” Alisia asked, in her most princess-like tone.

“I am a human, and my name is Alecksin.” Said the young man, fidgeting.

“And what, may I ask, are you doing in my chambers?”

“I was trying to elude the guards who have been following me.”

“Why have the guards been following you?”

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“They seem to entertain the notion that I am a thief, when in fact I am here to compete in the Tournament.” Alecksin stated, his eyes studying Alisia.

“Oh, I am sorry. The guards have been a little, well...off lately. But, no harm done, you may leave now,” A flick of her wrist and the little yellow ball of light appeared once more, when Alecksin took half a step back, Alisia smiled. “This will show you to your chambers for the duration of your stay, if in chance you run into the guards, tell them that I gave you permission to wander the castle.” Alisia said, willing her eyes to stop roaming.

“Right, and who, may I ask, are you?”

“Oh, damn, sorry...I’m Alisia.”

Alecksin’s eyes widened. “The Princess? The one that will be participating in the Tournament?” Alecksin’s voice held a sense of awe in it.

Alisia sighed, “That would be me.”

Alecksin shook his head and laughed slightly. His expression wore a strange combination of regret and amusement.

“What?”

“Pardon?” Alecksin asked, quieting.

“You were laughing, why?” Asked the princess, the slight annoyance in her voice, unhidden.

Alecksin’s eyes widened again, “Oh, it’s just that, I wasn’t expecting to sneak into the Princess’s bedroom.”

Alisia blushed slightly, her cheeks turning a delightful shade of pink.

“Oh, well...yes...I will see you tomorrow then.”

“Tomorrow?”

“At the registration.”

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“Oh, yes, of course...I’ll, uh, see you then...umm, bye.” He waved a little as he exited her room and shut the door quietly.

Alisia sighed and fell back against the pillows. As soon as she fell asleep, she dreamed...

A white room surrounded her, as she looked around, the walls of the room suddenly turned to a dark stone, with torches lining them, and in the bright light, she noticed that it was a huge cavern type room.

“The Tournament room.” She said, her voice echoing slightly.

As she looked closer at the sides of the room, she could see that the stands were filled with people. And at the head of the room, seated on the throne, sat her father. She felt breath on the back of her neck and spun around.

She was face to face with Alecksin, who was clothed in tight dark brown leather pants and a tight white tank top, that showed off the muscles in his arms as well as the ones on his chest and abdomen and flat black leather boots. Alisia glanced down at herself and saw that she was similarly clothed, in tight black leather pants, a tight black tank top and flat black leather boots. The outfit complimented her body the way Alecksin’s had complimented his.

Alecksin’s gaze was fixed on her father. Sapphireon stood, and everyone except for Alisia bowed.

“Let the Tournament begin!” Sapphireon shouted dramatically.

Alecksin swung a fist towards Alisia’s stomach, which she blocked at the last second. Again and again he swung in a flurry of punches, all of which were blocked or avoided at the at the concluding moment. Alecksin barreled into Alisia causing them both to make their descent to the floor.

As soon as her back came in contact with the ground the scene changed.

Alecksin and Alisia were in her bedroom, Fighting was a distant thought as Alisia realized that they were making love. Alisia reached up slightly and placed a soft kiss on Alecksin’s lips.

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“I love you, Alec.” She whispered against his lips.

Alecksin pulled away a bit and looked into her eyes, smiling, then he leant down.

“I love you, too.” He whispered against the shell of her ear.

Suddenly, the scene changed, Alecksin was holding her hand as she tried to go into the ballroom.

“Alisia, please! Do not go in there, please, love!” He pleaded with her, to no avail.

She pulled her hand out of his and entered the hall. She immediately screamed.

There was blood and death everywhere, the people were strung about in carnal displays. Alisia turned toward the throne and sank to her knees, placed upon the throne was Sapphireon, dead and ripped open. Alisia screamed a second time.

The scene changed yet again, she was standing in the white room, crying and screaming all the more. Alecksin came up to her and enveloped her into his embrace, murmuring words of love and comfort. After a few seconds, he pushed her away from himself and put a blade to her throat.

“You actually thought I could or would love you!?” He sneered, incredulously.

And drew the blade across her throat...

Alisia awoke with a scream and bolted upright.

Immediately, her father appeared in a flash of light and hurried over to her.

The door swung open and ten armed guards marched in.

“Alisia, what is it? Are you all right? What happened?”

Her worried father asked, gently rocking her back and forth.

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“You... you died, he betrayed me... the people, the people were dead, who killed them? Then... then he killed me...” Alisia managed to say, through her tears and sobs.

“What? Oh, Alisia, it was only a dream, I am right here, Love, Shhhh...”

Sapphireon said softly, a hint of relief in his voice.

Alisia dried her tears and steadied her expression. “Yes, it was but a dream, I am fine now, I’ll go back to sleep.”

Sapphireon studied his daughter for a moment, then turned to the guards.

“You may all leave now.”

They marched quietly out of the room, not once pausing or looking at the two royals on the bed.

“Goodnight, Father.” Whispered Alisia.

“Goodnight, love.” He replied, then he disappeared.

Alisia curled into a ball and tried to go back to sleep. When she finally managed, she dreamt no more that night.

“Rise and shine, Milady.” Said a young fae woman.

Alisia groaned and opened her eyes, which were assaulted by the morning light.

“Come on, Lease. You need to get up, if I am to have you bathe, get you into that dress and get you made up, all before the registration begins!” Exclaimed the young fae.

“Ok, Ok, Crystal. I am up. Have you drawn the bath?”

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“Yes... come on.”

Alisia got up and went into the dressing room, stripped and sunk into the tub.

Crystal looked at Alisia. “What scent of shampoo do you want today?” She questioned.

“Ummm, how about the earth scent, vanilla?” Alisia answered her personal assistant and bestfriend’s question.

“Earth, huh? That would not have to do with that striking young man from earth that happened by your chambers last night, now would it?” Asked the girl, as she flicked her wrist and handed the vanilla scented shampoo to the girl blushing in the tub.

“I... I haven’t the slightest idea as to what you are referring to.” Alisia replied, with a dreamy yet nervous smile.

Alisia poured a fair amount of shampoo into her palm and applied it to her wet hair. After lathering all of it, she dunked down and rinsed it out, then she applied the identical conditioner that Crystal had handed her.

“So, why was he in your room, anyway?” Asked the nosy Fae.

“Because he wanted to sleep with me.” Alisia said sarcastically, and laughed as her best friend’s eyes bugged out.

“No, No, Stupid! He was hiding from the guards, who thought he was a thief, when in fact he is to compete in the Tournament.” Explained Alisia.

Crystal just nodded, smiling amusedly at her best friend.

Crystal looked like her people normally look. Fae meaning fairy person. The Fae were the main population of the world called Underground. They looked almost exactly like humans except that they were, well, more perfect looking. They looked, spoke and acted elegantly and properly. They also were very talented in witch craft and young Crystal was a Mage.

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When it came to her personality, Crystal was funny, loud, high strung and sweet. Her raven black hair came to her waist, she had bright green eyes with long black lashes. Her black eyebrows were thin and slightly arched. Her features were flawless. Her figure was slightly hour-glass shaped but not as pronounced as Alisia’s. Crystal was not very tall as she reached Alisia’s jawline. She was thin and delicate. And one could also think that she was Native American because that was the way she appeared.

Her green eyes were fixed on Alisia, the Fae were also upheld for their curiosity and mischief. And right now the young Mage’s curiosity

was unleashed upon Alisia.

“So... What is his name?”

“Alecksin.” Said the Princess, before dunking her head again to rid it of the conditioner.

With barely attained patience Crystal awaited for her friend to resurface. When she did she was bombarded with another question.

“Alecksin, that’s a sexy name, is he sexy?”

“Actually, he is... hmmmm...” Alisia wandered into her own thoughts and was quickly brought back to reality by the highly impatient Fairy.

“And you will see him at the registration?”

“Yes, I will.”

“Wow, you’ve actually taken an interest in a guy? Will wonders never cease!”

Alisia sighed heavily, and got out of the tub. Crystal handed her a fluffy white towel, and Alisia dried herself off and handed it back. A flick of Crystal’s wrist sent the towel to it’s rack and emptied the tub. A twin movement made all sorts of beauty supplies, hair accessories, jewelry, and a dress with shoes appear on the vanity table.

“Let’s get this god-awful dress on you.” Crystal said, with a grimace.

Alisia giggled, softly.

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In the hall, the sea of people gathered. In front of the thrones was a long row of a dozen tables, where a Mystic sat behind each, to catalog all the rivals. Sapphireon sat in his throne and wore an expression of boredom.

The trumpets blared as the doors opened.

“The Princess Alisia and the Lady Crystal!” Shouted the announcer.

The people bowed reluctantly even before they actually saw the two young women. As they looked up, many breaths caught in many throats.

Alisia walked down the isle made by the separated people with Crystal one step behind her and to the side.

Alisia wore a dress of rich deep burgundy velvet with gold silk trimming. The sleeves were long and stopped at her wrists, the dress hugged her abdomen and upper chest, where it dipped moderately down in a sweet-heart cut, then like the other dress, it puffed out with extra folds of cloth from her hips down. Crystal’s disgust for the dress could be understood when Alisia’s back was seen. The dress was held together by matching burgundy leather cords that laced up her entire back. It touched the ground, so the matching sandals she wore were not seen. She wore a braided gold necklace, she wore no make-up with the exception of mascara and clear, shiny lip-gloss. Her hair was down and her crown rested atop her head.

Crystal wore a brilliant green dress that was exactly the same hue of her eyes. It too was velvet, and it had a silver silk trim. Her long hair was worn down, the first strands on each side of her faced were pulled to the back of her head, where they were held in place by a silver clip. Her neckline dipped not too low but low enough to show her family symbol made of silver, which was a Crystal Moon, on a delicate silver chain, that hung at the beginning of her cleavage. The sleeves were off of her shoulders and they were long. The upper part was tight but when it reached her hips it loosened and swirled majestically when she walked, the dress ended at her ankles, so the silver high-heeled sandals that she wore could be seen.

Surveying the crowds response, the two young women smiled and walked to the thrones at the end of the room.

“Father.” Alisia greeted with a nod of her head as Crystal curtsied deeply.

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“Hello, dearest. And good morning, Crystal dear.” Sapphireon smiled warmly.

Clearing his throat, Sapphireon stood. “Please line up in row and register yourselves.”

Everyone scrambled to get into a line first.

Alisia sat upon her throne, royally bored. In about fifteen minutes, she was to sit through a banquet too. She sighed. Her eyes searched the room for her best friend, and found her talking with what looked to be, a young and handsome human man with silver-blonde hair and violet eyes.

I wish that I could be of a less important stature, so I could talk with people, instead of being quiet and looking pretty, it’s not fair.

Lost in her thoughts, the fifteen minutes zoomed by and she found herself sitting at the banquet table, then straight to the party afterwards, the actual part that she and Crystal had been looking forward to. The part where Alisia could look for Alecksin.

The two young women searched for a good twenty minutes until they found him leaning against a pillar, talking to a very beautiful earth woman. Alisia stopped dead in her tracks, and started to turn around but Crystal caught her by the arm.

“Ok, Princess, where do you think you are going? We found your man, now go get him.” Said the young Mage, smiling.

Alisia moaned softly in discomfort towards the idea and Crystal sighed, frustrated.

“Ok, what happened to all your self-esteem? Hmmm? Go get him, Now!”

Without waiting for a reply, Crystal shoved Alisia towards the pair of humans. Who both looked at her. An embarrassed flush graced her cheeks as she took another step towards them.

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“Hello, Alecksin,” Said the princess, smiling, then she turned her attention towards the girl. “Good evening.”

Alecksin’s face lit-up with a huge smile as he made a little bow and the girl at his side followed his example.

“Princess Alisia, what an honor it is to see you again. This is my friend, Serene.”

Alisia smiled with masked relief as they all fell into a conversation.

Crystal watched her best friend talking to Alecksin and Serene.

Serene was as pretty as Alisia’s insecurities had announced, she had nearly black eyes and black hair that swept to the middle of her back, she was a little on the short side and delicate. Her eyes were almond-shaped, like she was from Egypt. She wore a deep brown dress that matched her eyes, that was extremely like Crystal’s, except it did not have any sleeves at all. It was no wonder Alisia felt threatened, this young woman was very beautiful.

Alisia’s eyes roamed over Alecksin, thankfully unnoticed by anyone.

Her eyes lit up as she saw Crystal and Serene accept the proposition of dances from the young Human man from earlier and a young Kracanian man.

“Um... Alecksin, would you care to dance?” Asked the blushing princess, shyly.

His eyes widened a bit and darkened as well. When his mouth turned into a small frown Alisia took it as a ‘no’.

“O-oh thats o-okay, Don’t wo-worry about i-it. I’ll just g-go n-n-now.” She stuttered, turning on her heel.

Her dress flared around and behind her. She felt a warm hand grasp her arm and slowly turn her around. Head down and face hidden in a mass of hair, she slowly looked up at him.

“I would love to dance with you.”

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As soon as he said that, the music changed to a sweet gentle melody. It was well-known to Alisia. Her mother had written and sung it as well. She sang softly as Alecksin gracefully twirled her around the dance floor.

As I looked at my life,

I wondered,

What has happened to me?

Part of me wishes,

This wasn’t the way,

Things turned out to be,

Is this me I see?

Alecksin reveled in the sound of her voice, drank in each word. Her head on his shoulder and her arms around his neck, they slowed down to a lazy sway in time with music. Alisia looked around and watched the people.

A reflection,

Is that all?

Am I empty?

Can this truly be the real me?

I wonder,

What they see,

When they see the girl,

that is supposed to be me,

Is it me they actually see?

Crystal was in the arms of the human boy, a small content smile on her face. Alisia shifted her eyes to Serene, who was dancing with the Kracanian boy, eyes closed. Then her eyes moved to her father, who was watching her with a mixture of happy and sad tears in his eyes, that she knew the song had invoked. Alisia gave him a small smile before gazing up at Alecksin.

Alecksin blushed, having been caught staring at the young woman in his arms. He offered her a small guilty smile, which she grinned at in reply. He inhaled, she smelled like vanilla and a beautiful fragrance he could not attach a name to.

Alisia studied Alecksin’s face as he watched the orchestra play the song she knew so well. She memorized the curves of his face and every fleck of gold and shock of white in his hair.

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His eyes are what, in the short time of knowing him, had captured her the most. Her eyes were a darker blue, alive and stormy with green, yellow, gold, gray, lilac and all shades of blue and gray. But Alecksin’s eyes were light blue, pure blue and were crystallized like diamonds. They were fascinating. She wished she could have eyes like those and not ones tainted with other colors like her own.

I see myself, my true self,

only in the eyes of my love,

He helps me see,

what I’ve been,

what I could be,

and all that I am,

and I’ll remain,

if not wait,

for him in heaven above...

Alisia blushed, having also been caught staring a little too long. As the last strands of music floated through the air, she smiled. With a mischievous glint in her eyes, she leaned up on her tiptoes and gave him a peck on the cheek, turned and quickly left the room.

Alecksin’s hand went to his face his eyes glowing with amusement, happiness and affection. Suddenly, his hand dropped and he shook his head, eyes darkening with anger, hatred and malice. His hands formed fists as he turned and stormed out the opposite way.

Sapphireon took in all these events with quiet, curious eyes.

Alecksin paced in one of the castle’s gardens, unknown to him, this was Alisia’s favorite. It had beautiful, large star shaped flowers, silver, black, white, and gold mainly, but there were also ones from all colors of the rainbow. They smelled like the scent he had not been able to identify on Alisia.

He snarled. His thoughts always turned to her. Her! The one he was supposed to hate, supposed to betray, or eventually, kill.

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He sighed, nothing ever went according to plan when it was important.

Especially for him. Why was he destined to love the one person that was forbidden to him? The one HE had claimed. Alecksin was sickened with himself. He knew every different color in her eyes. He wanted eyes like hers. Eyes that were alive, not frozen dead ones like his own. Her hair was a mystery within itself. Although it was golden brown, it had red, blonde and black, along with other browns as well.

Alecksin shook his head and watched the flowers, inhaling their scent.

Days went by and Alisia spent as much time as possible with Alecksin, Alisia found the love that had first ignited when she met him, grow into a raging inferno and against his will, the same happened to him.

Alisia stood in the kitchen, bothering the small blue goblin cook, his name was Moka. The princess looked intimidating in her tight light brown leather pants, her white tank top, and her black leather boots. Her hair was in a high ponytail. And although she wore no makeup or jewelry, she was stunning while the slimy little cook wore a white chief coat, a huge white chief’s hat and tan leather sandals.

“Oh, come on, Moka! It is the first night of the Tournament. I need food...please!” Begged the princess, in a tone that told the goblin, ‘Or else’.

“Princess, I cannot, you know that. Please, just go away.” Sniveled the disgusting little blue creature.

“Oh you! You’re so mean!” Alisia whined, falsely.

A quiet chuckle interrupted the two. Alisia groaned as her father appeared with a flash of light, while the goblin breathed a sigh of relief.

“Alisia, darling...leave Moka alone. You’re frightening him.” Said the amused voice of the King, who wore an equally amused smirk.

“Dearest, Moka is quite right. You cannot eat like a moose before the Tournament.”

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“Daddy, it’s eat like a horse. Not a moose.”

“Since when are you up to date on Earth sayings?” Asked Sapphireon.

Alisia blushed and ducked her head. Moka raised his grimy eyebrows.

“Um...it’s just a habit I picked up from my tutor. She is a human you know.”

“Really? I didn’t know that Cassandra remembered most of those.”

“Well, yeah...I’m just gonna go, um... warm up now.”

The Princess started out but was stopped by her Father’s voice.

“Oh, dearest...Crystal wanted to talk to you before you started. She is waiting in the training room. Bye...I’ll see you at the Tournament.”

He disappeared with a flash. Alisia raced down the corridors and into the training room.

The door flew open with a ‘bam’, and revealed a huffing, puffing Alisia.

“Really, Lease, I don’t know why you don’t just teleport, it’s easy, not to mention faster. Your father does it all the time!.”

“Because, I have to keep in shape...” Explained Alisia, lamely.

“Yeah, uh huh, like YOU need to keep in shape...so, why?”

“Because...it gives me time to think... about... stuff.”

“Yeah sure. Good explanation!” Laughed the Fae.

“Are you going to come to the Tournament?” Asked Alisia, timidly.

“Yes, I am. But...” The young Mage paused. “You have to promise me that’ll you’ll be careful and pull out before you get in too deep, all right?”

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“Yes, thank you, Crystal.”

Alisia pulled her best friend into a warm hug. As she pulled away, she had happy tears glittering in her eyes. She tossed her hair and smiled.

“Wish me luck?”

“Good luck, dearest friend.”

Their smiles lit the room that had seen everything. With a ‘poof’ Alisia disappeared in a mist of earth-toned sparkles.

“And be careful.” Crystal’s dread-filled whisper prayed after the princess had gone.

A woman in her late fifties looked to her troubled companion. His name was Drack. He was in his early sixties, he had gray hair and deep auburn eyes. He looked from the small upraised rock pond to his partner, Celina.

She had auburn hair and gray eyes.

“The prophecy has been set in motion. Now we must hope that it finishes it’s course. If not...”

She left the sentence unfinished, as if to horrified to speak the damnation that would occur if the prophecy did not take place. Drack closed his eyes, nodding.

Crystal’s troubled face shone through the pond of water.

A dark figure, hidden in shadow, with bright violet eyes, laughed. The air around him quivered and the rats ran the opposite direction. Evil. Thats what this creature was. His abilities were unknown, as was his identity. Even the shadows in which he dwelled, seemed to slither away from him. A deep purple flash sparked momentarily, then all was still again. Trumpets blared in the distance, signaling the opponents to gather. The evil eyes glittered with excitement. The shadowed being stepped from his place, into the light, once more a flash of purple surrounded the dark beast. As the light cleared, in the place of the cloaked figure stood a young man.

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He had spiked platinum blonde hair and crystalline blue eyes, his features were elegant and smooth. The young man was tall and lean, but held chiseled muscles along with high, sharp cheek bones. He wore a tight white tank-top and dark brown leather pants with flat black leather boots. He smiled, eyes dancing, as he took long, smooth strides towards the Tournament room.

Alecksin’s head popped up. The Tournament was about to begin. He quickly left the garden and walked on his way. He turned the corner and smacked into the evil young man. He took a step back, eyes wide with horror and disbelief.

“What are you doing here?” Demanded the angry human.

“Ensuring that you do not fail and a prophecy doesn’t take it’s course.”

“And how exactly are you doing that?”

“I entered the Tournament.”

“He’ll sense you, or she will.”

“I have cloaked myself.”

“We have to get going.”

As they walked, Alecksin sent the evil creature menacing glares, which were absorbed amusedly, by twin eyes.

“Don’t worry, Alecksin. You will not have to hurt your beloved, I’ll take the pleasure in killing her myself if she betrays me.”

“You will not lay a hand on her, Dartan!!” Growled the human, walking faster.

“Are you demanding me, boy?” Asked the amused, arrogant voice.

“Hell yes I am. I want my identity back. Pick another look and give me back mine.”

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Dartan laughed, Alecksin shuddered at the eerie sound. Another flash surrounded them both. Dartan held up a mirror to Alecksin’s face. He had silver-blonde hair that reached his temples and he had large beautiful light violet eyes. His mouth turned down in disgust.

“Change me back, Dartan!” Spat the human.

“What? I thought you’d like this look.”

“No, I don’t like this look. The look of your human-self disgusts me! Change me back.”

“No, and you can’t stop me, Mortal. My beloved shall die if she will not be mine, and she was mine before she was yours.”

Dartan disappeared in another flash, and Alecksin started sprinting madly towards the Tournament room.

The roar echoing in the cavern of the Tournament room was near deafening. Sapphireon stood and all fell silent, all the beings that were to fight in the Tournament gathered in the center of the fighting area.

“I, Sapphireon, King of Caliovix, welcome you all to the first night out of three that shall start-off the Tournament! Please take your seats and we will begin the first Trials shortly.”

Nervously, Alisia filed out of the Tournament room along with all the other fighters. She looked around for Alecksin and did not see him anywhere. Just as she was about to turn away she saw a handsome young man about Alecksin’s age. He quickly walked over to her and took her by the arm.

“Alisia, you can’t fight in the Tournament. Please.” He begged in a soft voice.

“Um, I am sorry. Do I know you? Oh, You were at the party you danced with Crystal, right?”

“No, it’s me, Alecksin.”

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“Umm, my Alec doesn’t have silver-ish hair and violet eyes. Although you are built kind of like him.”

A look of puzzlement quickly turned to a delighted smile on Alisia’s face.

“There is Alecksin now.”

Alecksin turned quickly to see a smirking Dartan standing in front of him.

“Dartan, don’t you touch her!!” Alecksin growled, placing himself in front of Alisia. Dartan merely smiled.

“Dartan, what are you talking about? My name is Alecksin. You know that.”

“Alisia, don’t listen to him.” Alecksin said as he turned to face her.

“Alisia, this is Dartan. My best friend.”

Alisia’s eyes widened, with the two men standing in front of her, she could tell how alike they actually looked. Alisia opened her mouth to comment on it, when she heard her father announce her first Trial. She smiled at the two boys and walked onto the fighting area and bowed to her father.

“Alisia, Mystic, of Caliovix, Your opponent will be,” Sapphireon took a moment to read his charts. “Dartan.”

Dartan smiled and looked over at Alecksin.

“Well, get out there, ‘Alec’. After all, you are me.”

“No, I am not.” Hissed the young man.

“Dartan, please come out on the floor so we may begin.” Sapphireon’s magically enhanced voice boomed.

Alecksin snarled at Dartan. “I hate you.”

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“And you fell in love with the enemy, so I have to do your job.”

He pushed Alecksin towards the area where Alisia waited. He walked next to her. She smiled at him and bowed, he bowed as well, and the fight began.

They exchanged blow for blow, in which they were freakishly in sync, almost to the point that they made the battle look like a choreographed dance. It went on and on until the two hour mark passed and they had to stop. It was announced as a flawless draw. They went outside the room to cool off.

“Would you like to go to one of my gardens with me? It is beautiful there.” Alisia asked, shyly.

“Yes, I would, thank you.”

With a smile, a nod and flick of Alisia’s wrist, they were in her favorite garden. The one that Alecksin had been in as well. He walked to the flowers.

“What are these called? They smell lovely.”

“Oh, those are my favorite flowers. My Mother created them when she met my Father. They are called ‘Beloved Fate’.”

“They are beautiful.”

“That they are. It’s because they symbolize love at first sight. And they deserve it too, all the beauty in my world, they deserve.”

“Why?”

“Because, I know how beautiful and magical love at first sight can be.”

Answered the princess with an innocent smile.

Alecksin turned to her. He saw the smile on her face and could not help but return it. He walked to the flowers and gestured to them.

“May I pick one?”

“No!”

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Alisia rushed up to Alecksin and jerked his hand away from the flowers.

Alecksin’s eyes widened in surprise. “Why?”

“Because they are fatal to pick if you do not give it to your love, a love of first sight.”

Alecksin smiled delicately, he pressed a kiss against her forehead. She gasped, pulling away too late, lingering too long. Her eyes widened in horror as

she saw him pick a deep blue Beloved Fate. Alisia looked up into his eyes, her breath caught. He disappeared in a breeze.

For the moment it took him to pick the flower, his eyes had been blue.

Celina and Drack appeared before a waiting Sapphireon.

“My friend, it is good to see you.” The gray haired man greeted.

“We only wish it was out of different circumstances.” The redhead continued.

“Yes, To make up for it, you both must visit more frequently.” Sapphireon offered.

The trio embraced, as beloved kin whom had not seen one another in decades would embrace. As they pulled apart, their smiles went to business.

Celina took a seat in midair.

She sighed, “He is here.”

“I know it. I have been watching.”

“Does he know that you know?” Drack asked urgently, eyes wide.

“Not in the least, my friend.”

“That is good. Otherwise, there would be danger.” Celina said.

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Alisia charged into the castle, not pausing to present her authority to the seven armed guards. The guards rose from their seats, seeing the movement, Alisia pinned them where they were with a glare.

“You may not pass here without authorization.”

Alisia whirled to face the guard who had spoke, slowly she stalked up to him with cat-like movements. She stopped when the guard was close enough to see the pulse throbbing in her neck. “I am Alisia, Princess of Caliovix.” Not bothering to wait for another word, the hot-tempered young woman continued on her rampage through her home.

After traveling halfway down the corridor, Alisia stopped. With an impatient growl, and a snap of her fingers, Alisia disappeared and re-appeared in front of three unsuspecting adults.

Alecksin gazed lovingly at the blue flower encased fully in crystal. It was suspended mid-air right in front of him. The scent of the flower lingered in the room still. He ran his fingers over the crystal, he stopped suddenly when the clock struck the hour of ten. Time to begin.

Violet eyes scanned the dark room, he went to the wardrobe and threw open it’s doors. Minutes later, Alecksin stood in front of a plain full-length mirror. He was dressed in black leather pants, black leather boots, black tank-top, and a black silk button up shirt over it.

His mind could not decide... Was he dressed to kill? Or was he dressed to die?

Crystal put on her family symbol. She wore a plain Egyptian cotton dress, it was cerulean blue, it had long sleeves, high cut in front, and it reached the floor. She wore no shoes, her hair was down and she was free of make-up. A silver-blue shimmer outlined her, her power was at it’s fullest. She was prepared to fight, to live, to die and to kill. She knew, however, that she had to stop the man with the silver hair, the man with the violet eyes.

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Celina and Drack shared a glance as the young brunette appeared before them. Sapphireon sighed, all they needed was this confrontation, things were already stressful enough.

“What the hell is going on here, Father?” Demanded the princess.

“What do you mean, Alisia?” The king’s voice, patient as ever, questioned in return.

“Thats the problem, Father, I don’t know what’s going on, explain it for me.”

“Perhaps we should, but not now.” Celina said, standing.

“Who are you?” Alisia eyed the two elders warily.

“We are prophets, I am Drack and this is my partner, Celina.”

“What are you doing here?”

“We have problems.” Sapphireon said in a dark voice.

“Problems?” Alisia took on a timid look, “What kind of problems?”

Dartan pulled forth a brown clad minion by the collar of his clothing.

His stolen blue eyes flashed with menace. The minion quaked in fear.

“Send a message to Lord Gerile, tell him to make me a sword, the most beautiful one in existence, it will be a wedding gift,” The follower nodded and started to retreat. “Oh, and make sure it is enchanted to kill a Mystic.”

“Y-y-yes, M-m-master.” Stuttered the cloaked man. The little guy stumbled over himself, twice, in his rush to get out.

Dartan growled loudly, all the minions in the room shuddered.

“There is something going on here. I will find out what it is. And when I do, there will be hell to pay.” The evil being laughed darkly.

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Lord Gerile was a large man, almost impossibly tall, he had red hair and deep red eyes, he was evil, he was cruel and he was the must skilled swords maker in the planet of Caliovix. He smirked coolly at the lackey that his old friend, Dartan had sent.

“Tell your Lord that I will have the blade ready as quickly as possible.”

“Y-y-yes, Sir.”

Alecksin picked up a pen and started to write, it was a letter to Alisia.

Dearest Alisia,

Please forgive me for not being able to tell you this all in person.

As much as I want to, I cannot. You must know that something is

wrong by now. You are right. Do not trust me, well, my looks.

Dartan is evil, he now looks like me, and I him. Please do not go

Him. He is dangerous and bordering on the psychotic side.

You must know one thing... I love you. Stay alive and stay safe. Trust

in your instincts, Love. Oh, and it was me that you fought, and it was

I that picked the ‘Beloved Fate’. And I am planning to give it to you.

Don’t worry about me, I’ll try to remain amongst the living.

Love,

Alecksin

He put it in an envelop and sent it to her room, where it landed on

her bed. He closed his eyes tightly, sighed, and opened them.

Time to go...

Alisia quickly read the letter on her bed. She found it when she came to get her amulet. Where some of her power was stored, it was more of a good luck charm, though. Happiness, confusion, anger and fear clouded her face. He was going to fight Dartan. She couldn’t let that happen. She loved him as well. Alisia could not, would not let him go that easily. She would plan something and go help him.

“Stupid, going of to face Dartan alone,” She sighed and grimaced, “Men.”

Plus, she still had to kick his butt for professing his love to her in a letter.

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A shimmering pink light dusted the air. A feminine giggle sounded as a young girl at the age of maybe five appeared. She had pink eyes and pink hair that was bouncy and reached her jaw. She looked around, mischief clear in her big, expressive eyes. She was wearing a long and plain pink cotton dress. She was barefoot, her toes and fingernails painted pink as well. She ran to the edge of the rock pond that Celina and Drack had been at earlier.

“I, Alawna, mystical kismet quartet, call upon my sisters, troika.”

A giggle of joyfulness, a sigh of annoyance and a groan of boredom rang out as flashes of off-white, tan and golden-yellow lit the Forrest.

“Dawna, Tawna, and Fawna, reportin’ for duty, O’ Wise One.” Announced the five year old girl, exactly the same as Alawna, except that where Alawna wore pink, Dawna wore golden-yellow, she had a soft, happy voice.

“What do you want, Alawna? I was busy. I do have a life ya’ know.” Snapped Tawna, another identical mystic, tan was the color she was adorned in.

“Oh, leave her alone, Tawna. It is probably involving the prophecy that includes the Princess and her boyfriend.” Stated the fourth little girl, she wore an off-white cream color.

“Thank you, Fawna. That is what I called you for. We have to go watch them, now.” Alawna said.

“To see who wins?” Asked the golden girl.

“And to see who dies.” Replied the other three sisters.

Celina and Drack both looked up simultaneously, the movement quickly captured the attention of Sapphireon.

“What is it?” Asked the alert king.

“It is time.” Answered the diviners in unison.

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Thunder shattered the uneasy silence that held in the hidden courtyard as

Lord Gerile appeared and stepped up to Dartan, he embraced the blonde and presented the blade to the evil being. Dartan unwrapped the dagger from the black velvet it was cloaked in, he smiled.

“Perfect, My Friend. Absolutely flawless. The best work I’ve ever seen from even you.”

“Thank you, Dartan. I would not give you anything but my greatest.”

“How can I compensate you?”

“I only wish to have the honor of slaughtering the King and his court.”

“Well, your wish is granted, my comrade.”

“Thank you, Dartan.”

The minions stood in a circle around the two warlords, the darkness around them was so heavy and thick that it could be smelled, not only tasted. When Dartan stood up on the platform and began the speak, they all cowered.

“Listen here. Today is the day that we will what we must. The Princess is mine-”

He was interrupted as a brown cloaked figure stepped up to the platform.

“She is not yours, Dartan.” Alecksin dropped the cape as he spoke.

“Is that so? She will be mine, you know it. However powerful you might think she is, I guarantee that she is not, ‘Alec’.”

Dartan stepped closer to Alecksin, dagger behind his back.

“I will have her heart, one way or another. She will either love me, or she will die. And I have no doubts of her not loving me. I am powerful, and she is not. Now, I need to remove the one person in the way.”

“Why, Alec, why do you think that Dartan is someone that needs to be removed?” Came a soft, melodic and slightly accented voice.

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“Well, Well, Well, Princess. What brings you here?” Asked a amused yet shocked Lord Gerile.

“Oh, I was coming to see Alec, and who, may I ask, are you?” Replied the young Mystic, politely.

“My name is Lord Gerile, Milady. I am afraid that ‘Alec’ is busy at the moment. You will have to be by again.” Sneered the dark lord.

“My Friend, Don’t be rude, this is Alisia, she is my love. Of course she may visit with me...” Said the depraved being that wore her lover’s face.

The smile that lit Alisia’s face warmed Alecksin’s heart, she was so innocent. That thought brought reality crashing down on him, she was in danger.

Alisia’s gaze ticked to the real Alecksin then to the fake, in the mere instant that their eyes had connected, he knew that she had a plan, and he had to play along, no matter how much he disliked it. Alisia nodded towards Alec, “Dartan, what an honor it is to see you again. May I ask what it is you have done to upset my love, so?”

“Oh, Dearest, that is simply answered. He tried to take something that is mine.” Answered Dartan.

Alisia smirked inwardly, she wasn’t an object, but Dartan had given her another piece of information that would help adapt to the role she had placed herself in. Plus, she loved acting and performing this perfectly would be extremely gratifying.

She made a tsk-tsk sound in her throat as she looked at Alecksin, “You shouldn’t take things that aren’t yours, it’s rude.” Alisia informed him, innocently.

Alecksin’s eyes roamed over his love, she was in tight black leather pants, a tight black tank top and flat black leather boots. Her hair was up, causally yes, yet it still looked amazing.

“Oh, Alec, I came to inform you that we have to go to the Tournament cavern, if we don’t want them to start without us, You as well, Dartan.”

Smiled the girl, inwardly filling with doubt, was this a smart thing to do?

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Sapphireon stormed out of Alisia’s chambers, his old friends frowned at the intense worry written on the king’s features.

“What is it?” Asked Celina, then her expression cleared, “She’s gone after him. That means we have less time than we thought.”

“Powers that be! What has happened!?”

“Nothing yet, Sapphireon. I know that she is your daughter, but please, try to calm down. You are no use to her if you are in a ruin.” Drack said in a soothing yet firm tone.

“Yes, My Friend, as usual, you are right. Lets get to the Tournament room, I need to announce the last Trials shortly.”

“Then, Indeed,” Began Celina, “We must go.” Finished Drack, “Lead the way.” They sounded in sync.

Alisia was grasping Dartan’s hand as the two including Alecksin entered the cavern. From the corner of her eye, Alisia saw Lord Gerile and several brown-robbed figures taking their seats in the stands. She was beginning to feel uneasy. All at once the power level in the room flickered, Dartan’s eyes narrowed, searching for the powers source. Finding nothing, the evil being growled, growing more agitated earning a faux-concerned glance from Alisia.

Alecksin observed the king from the middle of the room, Sapphireon didn’t seem to have his usual amused twinkle in deep blue eyes. Perhaps Sapphireon had more knowledge about the happenings in his kingdom than Dartan had assumed. And Alecksin was certain that Alisia harbored more power than anyone had ever begun to deem possible.

Dartan hid his maniacal glee with a merely amused look, he couldn’t believe how easily things were coming together, although he hadn’t doubted himself. He observed Alisia with thoughtful eyes, yes, she would submit easily. Dartan harbored no doubt there either.

“I welcome you all to the final Trials! Please, I remind all the fighters to be careful, any purposeful permanent harm to a rival will result in severe penalties. Now, I wish luck to all, and begin!” Sounded the velvet voice, magically enhanced. The crowd roared to life.

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Crystal peered at the scene that lay before her. She was visible to no one since she had cast a small charm on herself. She radiated power, and she seemed to float in the air. She surveyed the people within the cavern with silent curiosity. Crystal was relieved that the last Trials were of magick and fighting, not swords. Most of the rivals fought with iron swords and iron was deadly to the fae if one was even scratched with it. And to be near it was risking illness. Alecksin, Alisia and the evil being stood in the center of the arena along with rest of the fighters. Crystal had formed a plan in mind, one that she knew would work. But, she did not know that someone else had the same thought in their mind.

Alisia smiled sweetly up at ‘Alecksin’. He smiled down at her, coldly, she noticed. She looked to her factual Alecksin, she gave him an almost hidden wink. Then she turned her attention to her father who sat on his throne.

Sapphireon stood and announced a pair to fight. So the last trials began. Team upon team were called, finally Alisia was announced. The moment she had been dreaded arrived, her opponent: Alecksin. Alecksin’s eyes widened No! His mind screamed, Dartan would kill her because

As they walked into to the places they had to be in to fight, Crystal noticed that Sapphireon was looking directly at her. Her eyes widened…did he see her? He nodded discreetly to her, confirming her suspicions.

Dartan bowed his head to Alisia as she did the same. They circled each other, the blonde was smirking while the brunette girl’s mind was racing.

“Don’t worry, love. I won’t hurt you.” Soothed ‘Alecksin’, smiling.

“I know.” Replied Alisia. You need to get over yourself. She thought.

Dartan frowned inwardly, she sounded so secure and almost smug. He stopped his tirade, realizing she still thought he was her ‘sweet love’, or so was his judgment. He resumed smiling, Mortals. Sneered his inner voice with disgust.

Sapphireon stood, signaling the start of the rounds. This was the day of the Tournament, where a person could vary between physical and power attacks.

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Dartan unexpectedly rushed Alisia forgoing the traditional bow. Caught off guard, Alisia stumbled as Dartan came in contact with her roughly, sending her reeling backwards, the stone floor rising up to meet her back.

Alisia remember this as a part of her dream. Scrambling, Alisia stood, glaring the imposter. Dartan just smirked back.

Fight him, Fight him, Fight him! Alecksin chanted, inwardly.

Dartan growled, growing impatient with his game when it was clear that Alisia was not losing. “Enough games.”

“I agree, Dartan.” Alisia said calmly, ignoring her fears.

His eyes widened almost comically before a cold, amused sneer took over his stolen features, “So…the little mystic has a brain after all. What a surprise.” He drawled, mockingly.

With a smile Alisia tipped her head down, her eyes closing. A silver glow encased the young princess, her power level increasing rapidly. Alisia slowly rose, her feet not touching the ground, and she rapidly started spinning clockwise. As abruptly as she started spinning she stopped with a burst of light, opening her eyes, she regarded Dartan with feral amusement.

“Run now.” She said in a voice that echoed through the cavern.

Angered, Dartan charged, Alisia drew her hands in front of her body, sending an energy bolt hurling towards Dartan. As it hit him, the glamour he wore evaporated, leaving him with his own appearance and Alecksin with his own.

Dartan studied Alisia, suddenly he smiled, closing his eyes and raising his hands, he chanted.

Alisia’s eyes widened in pain, falling helplessly to the stone floor. Dartan drew her up, whispering in her ear, “This is how I killed your mother.”

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Alisia gasped, she used the last of her drained power to send him flying backwards. Snarling he got up and charged again.

All at once she was surrounded by Sapphireon, Celina, Drack, Crystal and the Mystical Kismet. Alec cut in front of the charging beast.

“Move, Mortal!” Growled Dartan, demonically.

Alecksin shook his head, Dartan flung him aside, binding him to a square area in the center of the arena. Dartan advanced on the eight surrounding the fallen princess, one by one he tossed them into the bound section, until he was facing the quartet.

Alawna warned Dartan casually, “You are not going to harm her.”

“Move, Child.” Snarled Dartan.

“Leave her alone!” Snapped Tawna.

“Get out of my way!” Yelled the enraged being.

Dawna pretended to think before answering, “Um…no.”

“No?” Dartan questioned with a hint of malice in his voice.

“No.” Confirmed Fawna.

Dartan growled in annoyance, muttering a few words under his breath, he sent the four girls into the square.

“Now I have you!” Laughed Dartan, towering over Alisia.

“No you don’t.” Said a musical voice.

Spinning around, the violet haired man came face to face with Natialate, Alisia’s deceased mother.

“What!? You Mystix and your magick! Stop it, Sapphireon!” Demanded the evil being.

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“I’m not…” Trailed the king, fascinated by the ghost before him.

“Alisia.” Called the spirit with shimmering tawny brown eyes and hair to match, the silky strands falling to her hips.

Alisia murmured and stirred, her eyes fluttering open, locking with her mother’s calm gaze.

“Mother?” Exclaimed the bewildered princess, recognizing the woman from the pictures and portraits around the castle. Alisia extended her hand as she sat up, her mother grasped it, pulling Alisia to her feet.

“How…why…” Alisia started.

“Sssh, love. I am here because you need me, I am here to give you strength. This is your battle, not mine.”

“I tried, I can’t defeat him alone.” Whimpered the young woman.

“Yes, you can. I know it. You just need to accept your power. You keep denying it, pushing it away behind a door, accept it, Alisia.”

Alisia nodded, “I’ll try.”

Gathering her energy, Alisia retreated into her mind to find the block that harnessed her power and destroy it. The young woman wandered through the black darkness. Turning a non-existent corner, the princess saw herself struggling to keep a door closed. Puzzled, Alisia wandered closer.

“What are you doing?” Asked Alisia, her voice echoing in the vast nothingness.

“Help…I…have to…keep it…closed!” Panted her double, bracing against the door.

Alisia’s eyes sprang to the door, everything clicking into place. In attempt to control her power, she had tried to lock it away. She figured that by opening it, she would let her power free and it would become a part of her. She would then be able to control it at will, as her father did.

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“Get away from the door.” Alisia commanded.

The other girl faced her sharply, disappearing with a gasp while Alisia spoke. From the door a white light sprang forth and enclosed around Alisia’s form.

In reality, no time had passed, Alisa’s eyes snapped open, her stormy gaze fixed icily on Dartan. Once again the princess was surrounded by a white void along with the evil being, the others left behind in reality.

Alisia faced Dartan, who once again wore Alecksin’s features.

“You need to stop this. My mother wasn’t your enemy and I am not. Just leave it be.” Spoke the princess, calmly.

Dartan snarled, “You know nothing of me, Alisia! You mother betrayed! And now you are doing the same!”

“Dartan, my mother, nor I ever gave our hearts to you or claimed to do so.” Soothed Alisia.

“Shut-up!!” Screamed the dark being.

Alisia continued, “I love Alec. I always will. You can never have me. My mother loved my father, you could never have her.” Alisia’s gaze grew stormier, bolts of lightning flashing randomly in the blue orbs. “So you took her from the ones that loved her. Well, you are not going to take me from them as well.”

Dartan roared angrily, coming at Alisia, the enchanted dagger in his hand. The blade came to her throat, biting into her skin viciously.

Still Alisia spoke, “Dartan, just leave. We won’t stop you.” The blade dug deeper into her flesh, blood trickling from a small wound at the tip.

“Just leave.”

As Dartan began to pull the wickedly sharp dagger across Alisia’s throat, he stopped, laughing maniacally, “I own your life, Princess.”

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“No. You will never have me.” Stated Alisia.

“Oh…really?” Scoffed the evil creature.

“Go ahead and kill me.” Exclaimed Alisia.

Dartan shook his head, “Come on, Alisia. Give some credit. I will kill your father, your court and your deceitful lover.”

“No, you won’t.”

Dartan raised his eyebrow, the nothingness falling away to the base of the grand staircase. Dartan gestured towards the door.

Alisia’s expression grew worried, then terrified as she raced to the ballroom, throwing open the heavy ornate oak doors.

She took one step and then fell to the ground, the blood, the people, the carnal displays matched those of her dream. She started screaming and crying. Dartan came up and wrapped his arms around her. Rocking hr back and forth, the princess was unaware as the illusion faded away and left them in the void.

“Ssssssh. I know, I know.” He soothed, then grasped her at an arms length. “Never disobey me again.”

Alisia raised her tear-filled eyes to Dartan, “I will always defy you.”

Dartan slapped her face harshly, “Don’t say such things!”

“I will always defy you.” Spat Alisia.

“Stop saying that!” Screamed the evil being, shaking Alisia viciously.

“I will always defy you.” Said the princess, icily.

“I’m warning you!” Roared Dartan.

“I will always defy you.” Stated the young woman, devoid of emotion.

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Dagger appearing in his hand, Dartan brought it to her throat, “I warned you, if I can’t have you, no one will!!” He started to draw the blade across the expanse of her neck.

Alisia’s stormy eyes gazed into the crystallized depths of Dartan’s stolen eyes. “You actually thought, I ever could or would love you?” She asked.

Dartan’s eyes widened, the words her mother had once spoken, directed at him once again.

“I’m sorry.” Whispered Alisia, unleashing her power, destroying the being in front of her. As the light settled, a violet Beloved Fate was the only thing that remained.

Gathering it to her, Alisia closed her eyes as the void faded.

Al at once she was surrounded by hugs of worried friends and family.

Natialate pressed a kiss to Alisia’s forehead, “Good bye.” Whispered Alisia.

Sapphireon embraced the beloved apparition before she disappeared, tears of pain, joy and relief clear in his deep blue eyes.

Alawna, Dawna, Tawna, and Fawna stepped up to the quiet princess.

‘Good job.” Offered Alawna, disappearing.

“You go girl!” Congratulated Dawna, giggling as she faded.

“You just keep it up!” Exclaimed Fawna as she evaporated.

Tawna offered a thumbs-up as she gave Alisia a rare smile, while fading from visibility.

The two prophets approached the still motionless young woman. Celina embraced her, warmly as Drack did the same. “Stay strong, love…” Started Celina, “You did what you had to be done.” Finished Drack, with smiles, they disappeared.

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Crystal stepped up to Alisia, expression hard. Alisia’s tear filled eyes lowered from the neon green ones that regarded her. Crystal’s harsh gaze softened as a single tear traveled down her best friends cheek. She embraced the troubled girl. Friendship still standing strong, Crystal vanished.

Sapphireon hugged his daughter, “I am so proud of you.” He whispered before leaving her with Alecksin.

“Alec.” She sobbed, throwing her arms around him. “I killed him.” She whimpered.

“Sssh. I know, I know. You did what had to be done.” Comforted the tall blonde.

She burrowed her face into his chest, crying. “He didn’t have to die. I am a killer.”

“He would have surely killed you, Alisia. I’ve known him for a long…long time. He was unstable, imbalanced. He did deserve what he got.” Alecksin explained as he rocked her back and forth.

“But…why did he leave this?” Questioned Alisia, pulling back and holding up the violet flower.

Alecksin took it, understanding that Dartan may have actually loved both Alisia her mother in his own twisted way.

“He must have wanted you to keep it safe, my love.” Handing the flower back to the princess.

“I will.” Alisia vowed, her heart aching for the evil being she had killed. Alec kissed her softly and as if by magic, the wound in her heart healed, with the love that the human man had given her.

“Oh, Alec. Thank you.”

“For what, dearest?”

“For loving me.”

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The trumpets for the Tournament sounded, the last day had arrived. Sapphireon took his place at the throne. Only two opponents were left.

Alisia and Alecksin entered the arena facing off, they smile at each other.

“You are going down, Lease.” Alec warned.

“After you.” Laughed the princess.

Without warning, Alec sent a flurry of punches aimed at her stomach, surprised, Alisia blocked or avoided the punches at the moment. Knowing what was coming, Alisia threw her body weight into Alec, sending him to the floor.

She smiled down at him, “I beat you.”

After the fighting concluded, they were to clean up and go into the ballroom to find out who won. Crystal helped Alisia dress, then dressed herself. Just as the princess was finishing her make-up there was a knock at the door.

Alisia opened it to reveal a handsome Alec. Smiling she took his pre-offered hand. When she turned to bid Crystal farewell. The Fae was not there, shrugging she allowed Alec to lead her away.

In the hallway before the ballroom, Alisa heard a crystal bowl shattered and a scream. Dread filled her heart as she began to run. Alecksin grabbed at her, trying to hold her back.

“Alisia, please! Do not go in there, please, love!” He pleaded with her, to no avail.

Alisa flung open the heavy doors, immediately she stopped, the whole court, her father and six prophets stood smiling at her.

Sapphireon nodded his head and with a grand gesture, ‘Congratulations’ hung in the air, made up of earth tone glitter that defied gravity.

Alecksin gently spun the stunned princess around to face him. “Congratulations.” He stated.

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Alisa smiled at him sweetly, “Thank you all.” She said, taking the Tournament trophy her father offered.

Crystal embraced Alisa, “You know what, Lease? I am so proud of you.” Alisia smiled at her, “But if you ever scare me like that again I will hex you.”

Alisia laughed, squeezing her best-friend tightly before turning to Alec.

“Um...Alisia, would you…um…care to dance?” Alecksin asked with mock insecurity. Alisia laughed and nodded, allowing him to pull her into his arms.

After a few hours of partying, Alecksin pulled her into the center of the room. The crown went quiet, backing away to give the couple so space.

He dropped to one knee, holding the princess’s hands in his.

“Alisia, since I first broke into your bedroom, I fell in love with you. Dartan had wanted me to make you fall in love with him or I was to kill you. I could do neither. Everything about you I love, from you personality to your eyes that are alive with color and everything in between. I ask of you, as a man in love, be mine forever?”

Pulling the deep blue Beloved Fate from the air. Alisia inhaled the familiar fragrance, smiling she took the flower from him with shaking hands.

“Alecksin, since I first found you hiding in my chambers, I loved you. Dartan tried to take me away, but he could not. Everything about you I love, from your brain to your heart and everything in between. I ask of you, as a woman in love, stay with me forever?”

Alecksin surged up, enveloping her in his arms, the Beloved Fate levitated above their heads. As they kissed each other, the Beloved Fate shimmered and burst into millions of pieces, showering the two with glittering petals.

Alisia smiled abruptly, remembering from her dream what would come next. Outside in the garden, the newly created Precious Destiny bloomed outside.

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Ten years went by, being immortal and passing that gift to her husband, the Princess was now the Queen, her father had stepped down the day of the wedding, allowing his daughter to rule.

Alisia sat on her throne, over looking the Tournament room, Alecksin seated at her side.

In the ring, a young girl, the age of nine with silver hair and eyes circled her opponent, Sapphireon. The young girls eyes trained on her grandfather with deadly determination.

“Ok, Xala. Take it easy.” Alecksin said in his daughter’s mind.

Xala rolled her eyes and replied to her father in an exasperated voice,

“Puh-leez, Daddy! Grandfather can handle me, even though you cannot.”

Standing, Alisia’s amused voice rang out in the cavern, “Let the Tournament begin!”

The End

Property of Cataira