Prologue

Part One: Kanrik

Through all the thunder and rain the sound of swords colliding, and splashes of footsteps trying to dodge spells and arrows could be heard. The world of Kanrik was struck by war. War for nothing more than power and greed. Princess Alendra, the ruler over the world, was now cursed and was losing her power and magic. And fast.

Princess Alendra was protected by thirteen “Defenders”. Legendary protectors with the second greatest power in this world. The thirteen of them were meant to always and forever protect and defend Kanrik and its people. Which meant challenging Zarkaphar himself. The dark figure who had started this whole mess....

Zarkaphar, the evil demon that planned to rein over all the dimensions: Which included the human worlds and Alendra’s own. His power held no bounds, and his weaknesses were yet to be discovered.

Zarkaphar held power and loyalty from one of the neighboring dimensions, Callous. A world where darkened spirits and mystical demons were banned. Never to return to Kanrik. Zarkaphar somehow found a way to reach this dimension and summon the greatest of all demons from their world, gain their loyalty and respect, and use them in the war against the defenders. Using them as his minions.

“Black Shadow Cloak!” Chanted Zarke, casting a shielding spell over the seriously wounded Aqua, who laid five yards away on the muddy ground splattered with blood.

“Is she alright?!” Asked Scarlet, blocking an incoming blade, immediately attacking after regaining the balance she hadn’t known she had lost. She was a gorgeous woman with long red hair and ruby eyes. She wore red armor and golden breast plate. On the top of her head perked furry red ears with white tips, and she had a scarlet tail with a white end.

This was the ninth defender in line, with mastery over the sword and the ability of speed and agility.

“I think she’ll be alright, but for how long--” The black haired girl couldn’t say the rest. It would kill her. As if she understood, Scarlet nodded, she didn’t want to think that either.

“The only way she’ll make it is if we regroup,” Scarlet instructed, “We need to get back to the castle....” She murmured, looking up at the figure gathering his energy for another attack. “Will the shield gonna hold up against another attack?!” she asked, looking more confident than she felt.

Zarke gritted her teeth, feeling her energy slowly evaporating. “I.... I’ll make it hold.” she hissed between harsh breaths.

Scarlet momentarily looked away from her foe. She felt worry and concern growing in the pit of her chest. Zarke.... “Alright....” she looked back to the demon who was distracted by her spirit demon, Hono.

“Hono!” she called, clasping her hands around her mouth to be sure she had heard.

Her trustful demon turned her huge head to face her mistress, she made complete eye contact with her dark green eyes. Understanding showing. But before she turned and went back to her mistress, she let out a fierce howl that carried through all of Kanrik and blazing fire escaped her massive jaws towards the opposing demons.

She then turned and dashed toward Scarlet, not bothering to look back to the scorched demons who had evaporated to nothing but mud in the rain.

“Good girl....” Scarlet whispered calmly toward the massive red demon.

The demon was at least six feet high, and was a glorious color of crism. Large fangs hung from her large jaws, and her forest-green eyes gleamed with respect for her mistress. The spirit guardian was in the form of a giant fox.

A deep rumbling came from the demon as she realized the gash imbedded in Scarlet’s left arm. Hono carefully rubbed her nose against it slowly. Scarlet smiled at the Spirit Guardian’s concern and kindness. “I’m alright Hono....” she soothed gently.

Hono reluctantly pulled away and stared at Scarlet with her emerald eyes. Scarlet grinned, kneeling down to pick up her muddy and blood stained sword. “Let’s get rid of these bad boys once and for all Hono.”

In response, Hono’s massive head went toward the sky and let out a huge battle cry as Scarlet sent out a silent prayer to ancient Lord Kanrik and her own Princess.

Her eyes snapped open and shot towards her sword as she realized something.

Dammit.... she thought, looking disbelieving to her sword. Her own ruby eyes met the crism blade. I’m left handed....

Now what was she to do....?

Ora... she thought letting out a stream of curses in Kanranian. You can’t imagine how much I wish you were here right now....

She bit her bottom lip harshly, remembering how she had rejected the idea of Ora tagging along with her, Zarke and Aqua. After all, healing magic was what Ora possessed, and that was needed at the castle at the moment.

Scarlet was pulled out of her trance as she was abruptly pulled up and off the ground by Hono. “H-Hono!” she breathed startled. She climbed onto her back, her heart racing and pounding uncontrollably.

She looked down and what met her eyes took her breath away: Where she had been only seconds ago had been turned into a giant crater, and smoke drizzled from the scorched ground.

Hono had saved her from a horrible fate.

“Th-thank you Hono....” she whispered shakily, wrapping her right arm lightly around her loyal companion’s neck.

Again, she was pulled from the moment by heat rushing by her face. She lifted her hand and subconsciously felt her cheeck. It was swollen and her skin felt like parched rubber. And it stung. Badly.

Alarmed, she looked behind them and saw a black stallion with silver wings flying after them. On it’s back, a black armored figure held a gleaming sword.Dammit..... she thought, he heart beating faster by the second. First off, she couldn’t use her blessed blade. Her usual savior in battles. And secondly, her speed wouldn’t do her any good while she was on Hono’s back and gaining unbelievable heights being attacked by a flying pegasus that was quickly gaining on them.

Another flame of crism passed them as Hono easily dodged it. But keeping Scarlet on her back soon became an issue. Scarlet tried her best to hold on to the crism fur, just without hurting or annoying Hono.

Scarlet was given the impression that Hono wouldn’t really mind at all. So she gripped her fur tightly. She did so with perfect timing. Another scorching inferno passed as Hono spun out of the way.

Suddenly she felt a twinge in her chest as someone tapped into her magic.

Then she heard a somewhat sarcastic remark from the perpetrator. You do know that if this keeps up you’re never going to get back to the castle, right? It was none other than Zarke.

Scarlet immediately tapped into the remaining amount of her magic to respond.

Any bright ideas? Scarlet snapped, her annoyance and control were quickly draining. I can’t take on one of Zarkaphar’s minions without my sword! You of all people should know that Zarke!

Zarke was silent for a moment, but Scarlet could guess what she was about to suggest.

No! Absolutely not! Scarlet exclaimed, cutting Zarke off. I’m no coward!

Scarlet could feel Zarke’s annoyance building up quickly. Swallow your pride and listen to me! Scarlet refused. For Lord Kanriks sake, Scarlet! Princess Alendra and the rest of the Defenders are depending on it!

Scarlet visible winced, but couldn’t respond as they were attacked by another flame. After regaining balance she replied crossly, I’m listening.

Aqua’s awake. I’, putting down the shield. Scarlet immediately protested, but Zarke seemed to be expecting her to do so, and cut her off. Don’t worry, we’re fine. Just get back to us and leave the rest to Aqua and myself. Then she added, and when you get here, get to Aqua as quickly as you can. The faster you do that, the faster we get out of this mess.

Scarlet bit her bottom lip harshly, anxiousness taking over her. But she reluctantly replied, alright.

With that Zarke’s voice disappeared, and Scarlet was alone once again.

“Let’s go Hono,” Scarlet whispered, leaning forward toward the demon’s white tipped ear. In response, Hono roared loudly.

Hono stopped and turned toward the stallion who had just caught up after the chase in the sky. Hono’s large fangs were barred, and her head held low, ready for defense or attacking herself. Both had stopped in mid air, and remained glaring at each other.

“Hono,” Scarlet whispered in her ear, “don’t fight unless you have to.... we’re going to get back to Zarke and Aqua.”

Hono didn’t move an inch, though Scarlet knew she had heard. And she had heard well. And Hono’s pride was the one soaking it all in.

The rider in black armor shifted in the shining saddle. “Scarlet I presume.” he said. He had a cocky voice filed with pride.

Scarlet, in return, gave and unladylike grunt, “depends on who you are and what you want with me.”

He let out a stifled chuckle. “I take that as a yes.”

If there was one thing that drove her insane, it was feeling insulted when it was just saying her name. She felt like she was being mocked, even when he had hardly said anything. Just ‘I take that as a yes’. And boy did that tick her off. And then there’s the fact that she couldn’t see that person because of the god damn helmet that covered his face.

“The ninth Defender in line. One who possesses agility and speed. One who’s pride in her weakness.” he mussed on and on to the point Scarlet didn’t really care in he was thirty feet away. She was about ready to jump across the gap, pull off the helmet and kick the shit out of the bastard.

Then that was when she realized she was still on Hono’s back and had to get back on the ground.

She smirked. Still looking at him, she inched her hands to the back of Hono’s neck. A slight glow came from her finger tips, and the small shine turned into a blood red color and slowly floated towards the fur and evaporated into it. She just prayed that the knight wouldn’t notice the magic transfer she was making. If I can’t use my magic, I might as well give it to someone who can....

She waited until Hono realized what was going on and received at least some magic before making a run for it.

Agility magic she-at the moment-couldn’t use would be a good tool for Hono, under certain circumstances such as these. So might as well give it to her.

Alright.... Scarlet thought, still transferring her energy and magic. Hono.... Go!

On cue, Hono lunged downward toward the muddy ground. Scarlet heard the horse’s hooves as it galloped through the air and the angry yells from Zarkaphar’s minion.

Though Scarlet had tried to ignore it, something had bothered her. And it had struck at her conscience.

How did he know so much about her? He shouldn’t know so much about the Defenders. Their ability, their powers, and.... personality? He shouldn’t have even known their position in line! So why....?

A abrupt jerk made her jump, pulling her from her thoughts.

She suddenly felt weak and dizzy.... also faint. Then she realized she was still transferring her magic to Hono.

She forcefully yanked her arms away from the demon. She felt out of balance and fell to the side and fell from the Guardian Spirit’s back.

But instead of falling to her death, she felt warm arms catch her. Her eyes slowly opened to meet light blue pools staring back at her. “A....Aqua....?” she slurred weakly. Everything was so....

Zarke.... where....?

“Zarke’s alright,” Scarlet looked up confused. Had she said anything?

She had given too much magic to Hono.... and Scarlet knew it. She had become distracted. Her anger and confusion had taken her into thought.

If she had transferred any more of her magic, she would have easily been killed. She’d be scolded for hours by Lula and Zarke.... but for right now... sleeping felt so appealing....

In her last moments of consciousness, Scarlet heard Zarke yell something and she was no longer in Aqua’s protective arms, but on the muddy ground... Aqua must have cast a spell....

Suddenly, she felt all bubbly and warm. Like this fuzzy feeling just had come over her....

-

Where was she....? What was going on....? Why did everything feel so warm....? Wasn’t she outside in the pouring rain.....? So.... why was everything so.... fuzzy and cozy...?

The war.... it’s not time to sleep.... she had to get up....

.....She had to fight....

Scarlet moaned, slightly opening her eyes. She blinked. Once. Twice. She couldn’t see anything.... it was all so blurry....

So she lay there for moments, not that she knew where there was.

Slowly, she became aware of her surroundings as her eyes cleared.....

She was in a dim lit room. And a big room at that. The walls were covered in a dull rose colored paint. And she was under heavy white blankets on a large bed.

For some reason, she couldn’t sit up or move. Once she realized this, she noticed she wasn’t the only one in the room.....

“Welcome back Scar.”

Scarlet looked to a short haired woman who was sitting next to her on a small chair. She had her chin in her hands as she grinned at her. Scarlet smiled brightly, grateful to know she was now in the castle. “Nice to see you to Reina.” Scarlet’s raspy voice startled Reina as much as it had herself.

Reina gently smiled. “Your burn and wounds are gone too. Ora stopped by as soon as she heard you had returned.”

Scarlet snorted, “she always uses her magic for others. She’s too selfless.” she closed her eyes, eye brows furrowed. “She just wastin’ magic if she can’t use it for herself.”

Reina smiled anyways. She was used to Scarlet’s talk about how others were. With all the dos and don’ts that she considered the best way to go.

Scarlet opened her eyes again, and looked to Reina silently. Her chin length purple hair was pulled back by a black ribbon safely tucked back by her heavy bangs. Her gleaming mist-blue eyes shown relief as much as concern, and Scarlet had noticed this as well. Slowly, Scarlet came to notice Reina’s pale skin was drenched in sweat.

“Reina...” Scarlet began, giving up on the concept of sitting up in the huge bed. “Why are you....?”

Reina chuckled softly, revealing her small white fangs. “Oh.... well,” she looked away to the wilted rose in the far end of the room. “You gave up so much magic....” her voice was rapidly losing its volume as she continued. “So I....”

Scarlet didn’t like the fact that she had to have someone else give up their magic for her stupid mistakes. “You gave it to me, didn’t you.” Scarlet finished, unintentionally making it sound bitter.

Reina nodded slowly. “Yes. Yes I did.” She looked back to Scarlet solemnly, understanding written on her features. “You wouldn’t be alive right now if I hadn’t given you at least some of my magic.”

Scarlet closed her eyes again. “Even so,” she began, “I made a stupid and idiotic mistake. It was my fault so I should have paid the consequences. Not bring you into this mess.”

Reina frowned. Scarlet’s pride would prevent her from letting this whole thing go. “Scarlet don’t worry about it its no big--”

Scarlet was finally annoyed and disappointed enough at herself to sit up in the bed. In fact, she actually flung herself up. “No Reina! It is not okay!” she couldn’t help but yell. This whole mess had been caused by her and she had to take another Defender’s magic because she had become distracted when transferring her magic! “I’m taking my magic from you! A Defender! You need your magic too! And here I am taking it from you!” For some reason, after she had finished her fit, she was leaning forward and panting breathlessly.

Reina was completely silent for moments. Just staring into a place Scarlet could not trace. Then she finally whispered, “You’re not taking my magic, I’m giving it to you.”

Ten words. That’s all she had said. Yet why did it strike Scarlet so hard?

Scarlet’s eyes were wide, and she was staring at the bed sheets, her bottom lip trembling uncontrollably. As if she were trying to say something, but just couldn’t find the words.

Reina knew what was about to happen, so she stood up from the chair, sat down on the soft bed and turned around waiting for Scarlet.

As if on cue, Scarlet flung herself into Reina’s arms as hot tears streamed down her face. “God, I’m such an idiotic fool!” she screamed, closing her eyes tightly together. “I made a mistake and now everyone has to deal with it! I can’t admit when I’m wrong, I’m always making other people worry about me! And-and my pride is my weakness! Just like he said!” then she took a few moments to catch her breath, while mumbling, “....it’s my downfall.... just like he said...” then she resumed to rough sobs in Reina’s arms.

Reina gently soothed. “Don’t worry. I’m here.” she rubbed Scarlet’s back, trying to comfort her. “Let it out.... let it all out....”

-

Scarlet walked down the darkened corridor silently, her long purple gown trailing on the ground. She had changed from her armor and was in desperate need of proper garments. So she had to borrow some from Reina, and the Defender had left her to change, agreeing to meet each other in the gathering room on the second corridor. Where mostly everyone had gone.

It’s so quiet.... she thought remembering when the days in Kanrik were peaceful and the concept of war was only a figment in the back of people’s minds. There were always children running around through the castle’s corridors, and there was always laughter and joy coming from the castle’s people.

She sighed, grief consuming her. All that was gone now. Zarkaphar had taken away all of their happiness and joy. He had killed thousands of innocent people and children. And all of that was out of his own selfish greed.

It made her absolutely sick. Just thinking about it, it made her feel so... dirty.... Just knowing she had some kind of connection with him made her feel sick. Even if he was her enemy.

Well, there was one good thing that had come from his existence. She had met Hono. And had bonded with her, and now she had her blessed Spirit Guardian and loyal and wonderful friend.

Her thoughts faded away as she realized where she was.

She stood silently in front of the large gathering room door.

Okay she was here. Now there was only to open the door and walk inside..... she smirked dryly. Easier said than done. She slowly reached out to open the gigantic wooden door with trembling hands.

She breathed in a defeated sigh. She didn’t want to go in. She didn’t want to see everybody’s fake smiles, telling her that it would be alright, or we’re so glad that you’re alright. She knew what they would really be thinking....

They would be disappointed in her. Though she would try to hide it, she would be able to tell for sure. They were all embarrassed and ashamed that she had made such a stupid mistake and was almost killed because of it. But, it’s not like she could blame them for thinking that either. She was a disgrace. Such a mistake can’t be easily forgotten or forgiven. She had done something that to a Defender, was absolutely unspeakable.

She touched the cold metal, sending shivers up her spine. The door creaked loudly as it opened slowly on its own. Scarlet took a deep, nerve-racking breath as she allowed her eyes to open again.

What her eyes met was something she wasn’t really expecting....

“Scarlet!” Scarlet was scared out of her skin as someone literally jumped on her, wrapping their arms around her tightly. “Oh my god! I’m so glad you’re alright!”

Scarlet blinked several times before she realized who it was that was literally strangling her at the moment. “It....it’s good t-to see you too Aqua....” Scarlet choked out, losing blood circulation by being suffocated by her friend’s killer hug.

“Glad to see you’re awake Scar,” Zarke said coming up from behind Aqua. As Aqua let go of Scarlet she went to give Zarke a grateful hug. She received one in return.

As Scarlet’s eyes adjusted to the light, she noticed all the people in the room; Ora, Lula, Kana, Sasha, Reina, and Yorey. They all gathered around her with smiles-which she was surprised to see-were not fake at all.

Yorey, a smaller girl who looked to be about twelve, had large tears in her big brown eyes. She was a short girl in a night blue knee-high dress, and dark brown, wavy hair that flowed down to her waist. She had large, black cat ears and a long, furry tail. Yorey was eleventh defender in line, with hypnotic magic.

Ora, a girl who looked as old as Yorey, hugged Scarlet gently. She had green, shoulder length hair with golden yellow streaks. Her dark green eyes were just about ready to flow over with glistening tears as well. She had gold wings like an angel and long, soft feathers sprouted from where ears would usually be. Third defender in line, healing magic and control over the element of wind.

“Are you alright Scarlet?” Ora asked quietly, standing next to a blonde haired girl with furry, droopy ears.

Scarlet nodded silently. They were being sincere....? She wasn’t expecting that. Then she suddenly remembered something.

“Thanks Ora,” Scarlet looked down, trying her best to hide her embarrassment.

“For what?” Ora inquired questionably.

Scarlet forced her eyes from the marble floor. She was just going to say it. “For healing my wounds. I... really appreciate it.... so.... thanks.....” she then looked away again. Though she wasn’t quite sure why.

Ora beamed brightly, her emerald eyes gleaming. “Oh Scarlet, you would have done the same thing if you were I.”

Just like Reina had done. A small statement. Yet, to Scarlet, it meant so much.

But instead of feeling pervious emotions like when she was with Reina, she felt grateful that Ora had given her that kind of response. That was just the kind of person Ora was. Like she always knew exactly what to say and when to say it.

Lula, Kana and Sasha exchanged words within the group as well, but Scarlet then wandered off into her own thoughts....

So everyone’s back now aren’t they? She glanced around the room, slowly nodding her head to something Aqua had said. Without even thinking it over, a question escaped her lips.

“Where’s Tigera?” the question wasn’t really directed to anyone, so it lingered in the air for moments.

Scarlet looked around to them, had she asked a hard question? All it was was a yes or no question.

Again, without thinking she asked, “and Hope and Glaire aren’t here either.”

The room had become very quiet. How was this a difficult question to answer--?

Aqua spoke quietly, “no word from either of them.”

Scarlet’s eyes widened. “Nothing.” it wasn’t exactly a question, but it had just slipped. Her tone wasn’t harsh, nor was it curious.

Tigera, the lead Defender, had been sent to the opposite side of the castle as Scarlet, to protect some of the remaining villages. She went with Hope, forth Defender, and Glaire, a ‘qualified’ Defender. Which meant she wasn’t born a Defender, but had qualified to become one and gain a position. How she managed to become one was a mystery to Scarlet. But... in some ways.... it might be better that she didn’t know how.... at least not in detail.

But.... something didn’t feel right... they were only defending a few villages.... so they should have been back by now.... right? At least before Scarlet and her group returned.

Something told her that a couple of demons wasn’t the only thing they were facing....

Was it a trap....? and if it was, then why wouldn’t Alendra or Zarke be able to pick up on their enemy’s motives?

Scarlet’s eyebrows furrowed as she frowned. “Where’s Alendra?”

Zarke raised an eyebrow, but remained silent. Maybe she was trying to predict Scarlet’s actions. Probably.

“Why do you want to know?” Lula asked, most likely getting an eerie feeling from Scarlet’s facial features: determination mixed with confusion. And for Scarlet, that was not a good combination.

Scarlet reluctantly faked a calm voice and responded. “No reason, Lula.”

She could tell Zarke knew her intentions. Damn Zarke’s telekinesis powers....

Oh well. She would get her answers. Even if it drove her insane first.

“I just want to know,” she continued after the unconvinced stare she received from Lula. “I need to speak with her.”

Before Lula could protest, Zarke cut in. “Don’t worry Lula, I’ll go with her.” Zarke walked passed Sasha and Kana and took Scarlet gently by the arm. “If she tries anything, I’ll make sure to put a stop to her evil ways.” she exclaimed giving a slight smile. Which, for her, was something rare and was to be celebrated.

Lula slowly nodded as Scarlet and Zarke walked out of the large wooden door. “Keep her in line.” she murmured.

-

After the door had shut and they had begun walking down the hallway slowly, Zarke simply said, “what will you do if they are in trouble?”

Scarlet looked down at the tile silently, Zarke was going to pry answers out of her. Even if she already knew the answers.

“You should know Zarke,” Scarlet said softly. “Your powers could tell you that.”

Zarke smirked a bit. Her grey eyes closed as she lifted her head slightly. Her black hair swiftly caressed her cheeks as she grimly remarked, “You’re right. I could discover answers on my own without you even knowing.... but....” she opened her eyes and focused them on Scarlet. “What goes on in your head is none of my business.” she finished hard.

Scarlet didn’t know what to say. She didn’t know what to feel. Grateful that Zarke would stay out of her head and not read her thoughts, or if she should be upset that she wouldn’t have anyone that understood her, or....

“But....” Scarlet looked up. She’d zoned out again. Zarke had resumed to her expressionless face, but her voice was almost a whisper. “....if you put yourself in danger....” she stared hard at Scarlet, her eyebrows furrowed and her voice was dark. “Then it becomes my business.” She then looked ahead again, but her face remained the same. “Remember that.”

And she would. Scarlet’s eyes were wide, and her mouth was a thin line. Was that a threat? Or was that Zarke’s way of showing she cared?

Scarlet didn’t really have time to ponder on it. Zarke’s voice had cut in to her thoughts again.

“I suppose by having known you for so long, I’d say if Tigera and the others were in danger, you’d recklessly run out with absolutely no plan, and most likely be killed in the process.”

Scarlet paid no attention to the slight sarcasm toying with Zarke’s words. She nodded slowly, “I... I guess....”

Zarke nodded, then sighed, “Don’t go with out me knowing,” she said quietly. She continued, “because, truth be told.... I’d go with you.”

Scarlet’s eyes widened, and her mouth opened slightly. She had stopped walking, and now she stood there dumbfounded. “Huh?”

Zarke gave a rare grin and looked back at her. “What?” She said lightly, still grinning. “Need me to repeat myself?”

Scarlet smiled and shook her head. “No need to.”

With that, they walked faster down the corridor.

-

“This is it.” Zarke’s smile was now gone, replaced with a grim stare.

They had finally reached the basement of the castle: the prisoner chambers.

Scarlet shivered, looking around. She wasn’t sure if it was because of the cold, eerie atmosphere that was the cause of the uneasiness, or if it was the cold drips of water that fell onto her bare arms.

It was a darkened dungeon with small pools of water from the dripping ceiling. The only light was the old torches with still burned. Shackles and chains hung from the mossy walls and decayed bodies hung from their wrists. Rats scampered around as Zarke and Scarlet walked.

Zarke walked to one of the mossy walls and reached up to one of the torches. It reluctantly slid out, and she blew dust off the base.

Scarlet had finally found her voice, “those are lit with magic right?”

Zarke silently nodded as she held the torch out in front of them as they continued down the creepy hall.

“Why would the princess be down here?” Scarlet wondered aloud.

Zarke blew a spider web away from her face, and answered, “there are only three people who know where the princess is hidden. Myself, and now yourself, and also Tigera.”

Scarlet nodded, even though her question hadn’t really been answered.

“She’s down here in hiding so in an unlikely case an enemy had gotten inside the castle, she’d be safe.” she exclaimed.

“Can’t she be detected by magic? Sure, this tactic could stop a minion, but Zarkaphar himself? No offence, but it’s not likely.”

Zarke turned, stopping her stride. “Remember Scarlet, we’re here. As long as we’re here in Kanrik, no harm will ever befall our princess.” the way she said it, mixed with the confidence she obviously possessed, Scarlet found herself believing it herself.

They started walking again. After moments of silent pondering, they neared a large metal door with ancient designs and hieroglyphics inscribed in the rusted iron.

Zarke told Scarlet to stay put, and she handed her the torch and approached the large door. She leaned forward, placing her right hand on one of the hieroglyphics and traced it with her pointer finger. She murmured something Scarlet couldn’t catch, but she was sure Zarke was chanting something.

After moments of inaudible murmurs, Zarke stepped back slowly eyes covered by her overgrown, black bangs.

Scarlet watched, eyes wide as the thick door creaked and opened slowly.

Zarke turned to her. “Lets go.” Scarlet silently handed her the burning torch, and they walked through the door.

Scarlet’s fists clenched together as the shivers on her back continued. Truth be told, she was freaked out. Utterly and completely freaked out. Sure she could handle gore and guts, but torture rooms and dungeons? Even though the fearless Zarke stood beside her, her presence didn’t really seem to have any affect on her uneasiness.

They were now in a slightly lit hall. No torches. No candles. Scarlet momentarily wondered if it was magically like this.... maybe it was because Alendra knew they were coming? Oh well.

Her eyes narrowed as they stopped. She had been so deep in thought that she hadn’t even noticed they had come to a complete dead end. “Uh.... Zarke....?”

Zarke nodded, and closed her grey eyes. “After you pass the shielded door, you come here.” she murmured quietly, then she grinned slightly, a testing expression written on her features. “This hallway is nothing more than an illusion.”

“Huh?” Scarlet touched the cool wall. She expected to go right through it, but her finger tips touched cold, damp brick. “An illusion? It’s solid though....”

Zarke’s grin remained as she spoke somewhat proudly. “That’s why it’s so convincing.” her grin widened as she finally concluded. “That’s one of the most amazing things about our own princess’s power....”

“You really respect Princess Alendra don’t you Zarke?” Scarlet asked smiling slightly.

She gave a sly smile and responded, “I suppose so.”

Scarlet changed the subject, “by the way... ah.... how do we get in?” she asked.

Zarke turned around to fully face the ruby eyed girl. “I was hoping you would eventually ask that.” Zarke then held out her hands after putting out the flame and setting the post on the soft ground.

“Huh?” she asked confused. But she did as she was told: put her hands, palm down on Zarke’s warm hands. What’s going on?

Suddenly a gold light appeared around them. “Close your eyes Scarlet.” Zarke instructed, eyes closed.

She did. And after she had, she slowly began to hear a conversation she was pretty sure, she wasn’t suppose to hear....

“It will be total utter destruction of Kanrik,” slowly whispered a light, calm voice of a woman.

Someone else was there. Scarlet could feel their powerful aura. She was pretty sure they had moved. Maybe they had sensed something near: Zarke and herself. “I see princess....” was the only reply from the obvious voice of a woman. She had a quiet voice, but was somewhat harsh and rational.

Zarke and herself had began to appear in the large room. Scarlet didn’t look around at what kind of room it was. She was too busy trying to hold her breath. She didn’t want to be caught eavesdropping on a private conversation.

Scarlet realized the voice immediately. It was....

The other voice replied sadly, “do you not care for the fate of Kanrik, Glaire?” she asked.

“The only reason I am here, Princess Alendra, is to serve you.... and Kanrik.” Glaire responded, obviously bowing before her.

She looked to her side to try to catch a glimpse of Zarke, but couldn’t. Her black bangs where covering her grey eyes.

So many things where pounding through Scarlet’s head. Too many questions. So little answers.

Fate of Kanrik? Glaire here? Wasn’t she suppose to be outside with Tigera and Hope? Why was she here? And better yet, how did she get in here? Weren’t Tigera, Zarke and herself suppose to be the only ones down here? Why-?

A warm hand touched her clenched fist, she looked to Zarke who was now visible. Calm down... otherwise your aura will become detectible.... she told her. Scarlet nodded. She had to be careful.

After moments, Glaire took her leave: bowing again, then teleporting back to... wherever she had come from....

Zarke nodded and stood, pulling Scarlet up as well. They had been hiding behind a large bed.

“It’s nice to see the two of you,” said the calm voice from the other side of the room. She had her back to them and had her hands interlaced in front of her. Her long blonde hair touched the ground in wavy locks. She slowly turned to them with a graceful smile forming on her pink lips.

She had a golden crown with syneriana and nyphritia, (rare elements in Kanrik), and large blue eyes. She wore a gorgeous white gown, that flowed loosely and rippled on the gown.

Aside from her outstanding beauty, she had long pointed ears coming from the side of her head. She was obviously an elf.

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