2 comments/ 4849 views/ 13 favorites Adage of the Snow-Water Ch. 01 By: Alecrire I'm really excited about this new series, developing my favourite characters and their stories. If you've not read the Lore, you might want to read that first to understand the characters and the storyline better. *** As the most senior Ordinal and highest ranking Snow-Water Angel left in the world, Chióni knew that it was up to her to ensure that the frigid harshness of Archangel Yuki's reign ceased to continue. It was time to bow down to her new Cardinal. In a matter of days, her bond with Archangel Aria would be permanently sealed through a trial of elements. Chióni had done it before as an Ordinal under the service of Archangel Yuki but this time it would be different. Archangel Aria was unlike any other she had met before. There was no arrogance in her eyes, no demand for dominance or possession in her voice. Instead, the Water Cardinal with her whirlpool-like eyes looked at her not as inferior but as part of a family -part of their clan. Chióni didn't know if that would make their bond stronger but she was ready to offer her service and life to this Archangel. For the first time in her life, Chióni had been asked for her opinions and given a choice to consider being part of an entourage of Ordinals. Never had Chióni expected an Archangel to ask for anything. It was for that, that Chióni had taken it upon herself to fly back to Japan to Yuki's Snow Palace in search of remaining Snow-Water Angels who may have sought shelter amidst the chaos of Yuki's demise. But more importantly, Chióni had returned to search for Yuki's copy of the Lore of the Angels and to destroy the last remnants of the Snow Queen's legacy. Walking past the beautifully sculpted ice pillars and glassy ballrooms, Chióni finally arrived at Yuki's personal quarters. She had never been past the frosted doors of this part of the palace before and for a moment, Chióni felt almost sad that she had to destroy such a fascinating piece of architecture. Yuki's snow palace was built in the style of the old Japanese castles; atop a mountain but made with the strong foundation of ice and stone. Such heights had given them a bird's eye view of their surrounding and Chióni knew she was going to miss the cool morning breeze and the smell of cherry blossoms each spring. It was tempting to step into her own quarters for one last time, but Chióni was disciplined enough to put business before her emotions. Keeping to her mission, she stepped into the forbidden quarters of Archangel Yuki and sought to find the Lore of the Angels as transcribed by a Water Angel. In all honesty, Chióni had no idea what it would look like. For centuries, her clan had only access to that of the Snow/Ice form and she had never questioned the existence of another form of her element. Beginning her search in the study, Chióni came across various building floor plans and geographical maps drawing out the boundaries held by the different Archangels. If Chióni didn't know better, it was likely some sinister plans for Yuki to infiltrate her enemies' lairs. She spent nearly an hour there but there was nothing that looked remotely like an elemental book. "Where would I hide something that I hate?" Chióni pondered for a moment. Maybe Yuki doesn't hate being a Water Angel, maybe she was just ashamed. Why? Chióni would never know and never would the world seeing that Yuki is no longer alive. "Okay, if I wanted to hide something that I was embarrassed about..." Her thoughts brought her towards Yuki's room. "Yes... somewhere close enough for me to keep an eye on it." At a glance, Yuki's room looked so peaceful with its white washed walls and powder snow blankets. But upon closer inspection, Chióni realised that there were chips here and there in the façade, as though Yuki was trying to conceal something in the walls. Trailing her fingers across the glossy iced walls, Chióni prayed hard that it was indeed hidden behind them. Now and again, she would see patches of melting ice, looking like dripping candle wax frozen in time. It was only when she reached the bed that Chióni noticed a small picture frame hung behind the bedpost. Pushing the bed aside, she pulled up the frame and her eyes widened in surprise. "The Matriarchs..." she whispered, tracing each face in attempts to commit their images to memory. These were the first Archangels created - each one in its element. There are only two of them remaining and the centuries have changed them so much. Here, they were fresh-faced, their wings all white and tender, like that of a new born. Sitting with their backs to each other, the sisters were all smiles as they posed for a family portrait. Sighing, Chióni put the frame back where she found it. That was it. There was nowhere else in the palace that was private enough for Yuki to hide something. Chióni was about to head back when it struck her. Of course! If an intruder were to enter her personal quarters, she would expect him or her to be of the six elemental clans. None of them would be able to find the book, naturally. It would take a Water Angel to find the Water-Scribe's Lore. Chióni didn't know how she was going to do that. Yes she had shed most of her icy exterior but she was no Water Angel as pure as Aria. She had none of the whirling passions that the Archangel displayed in her eyes nor the elegance and grace she held in her liquid wings and posture. Keeping her new Archangel in mind, Chióni closed her eyes and started to imagine the room as a giant water tank, every inch filled with salty sea water. Shutting off the sounds of the howling winds and the breeze on her skin, Chióni began to experience the silence and solitude that came with being underwater. As she opened her eyes, she saw that the room was no longer white but washed with a light blue hue and that's when she saw it. The chips in the ice that she had seen earlier were now deep pockets of water keeping small trinkets afloat. To Chióni, they looked like random objects - a small comb, a miniature jar, a fish scale. But it was the frame that caught her attention for it was glowing bright, like an object catching sunlight underwater. Moving closer, she picked it up and saw that the canvas appeared almost liquid. Experimenting, Chióni placed a finger onto the picture and almost gave a shout of surprise when it went right through! This had to be it. Plunging her hand into the frame, Chióni felt her fingers brush against a hard, smooth and cold object. Gripping the edges, she pulled it towards her, out of the frame. And immediately, the blue hue disappeared, leaving the room once more in its cold whiteness. *** The flight southwards warmed her up considerably from the chill she'd experience up in Yuki's snow palace. As soon as she landed on the sandy shores of their temporary home, Chióni sought out her Archangel. "Cardinal," she greeted; ignoring the proud peacock standing slightly behind Aria. "I have found something and I hope this may be of great value to you." On her knees, she stretched her hands forward as offering to her Archangel and was incredibly pissed when a masculine scent approached her instead. "Cardinal, if you will. Let me see that." Lavender wings brushed against her fingertips as the Lore was plucked away from her. How dare he! Chióni watched as the offending Light Angel brought the cube of ice against the light, as though he had a right to touch such an heirloom. Archangel Aria however, didn't seem disconcerted. Instead, she smiled as he passed the Lore to her. "I don't think it's the kind of ice that melts under heat Lucian. Thank you for trying." Narrowing her eyes, Chióni glared at him. Did he think he was so special that he could undo a very powerful contraption set by an Archangel? Such arrogance! Chióni had heard about him. She knew he used to be Archangel Zilarrezko's Ordinal before he changed allegiance to another -typical male behavior. She didn't like him. Such a spineless disloyal Angel shouldn't be allowed within an inch of her... "Chióni." Aria's tone was gentle as she ushered her to her feet. "I am grateful that you have brought this to me. It is indeed of great value to all of us." Aria smiled at both Angels in front of her. "And I am thankful that you have chosen to be under my service. As the most senior Ordinal, I hope you could help your fellow Ordinals adjust to life here." Her ice-carved feathers ruffled slightly. "Fellow Ordinals?" "Yes, this is Lucian," she introduced. "And you have met my sister Kissa. She will reach pre-Cardinal level in a few years but I expect her to train well as an Ordinal first." Chióni's first reaction was to protest against having a male in the Archangel's service but then she caught herself; fists clenched tight to remind her that this Light Angel had proved his loyalty to their Water Cardinal during the battle with Archangel Yuki a few days ago. Still, she didn't have to like him -ever. "I will personally take over their training Cardinal." A pause as her sky blue eyes flickered annoyingly at Lucian. Train with a male Angel? She'll kick him to the ground in two seconds flat. He seemed to have picked up on her disgust for he fluttered his lashes annoyingly at her. Chióni was considering freezing his face when Aria interrupted her thoughts again. "Chióni, do you know if there were any... Ordinals left?" From our clan, she wanted to add. Chióni lowered her gaze; unsure of how to break the news. "I beg your forgiveness Cardinal for daring to make a suggestion." "Nonsense! There is no need to say sorry before saying something to me. If you have an opinion say it." Chióni was stunned. Yuki would have slapped them right across their faces for daring to even breathe in her space. "I... well, I think it is best we search for new Ordinals. Apart from Fleur, I am the only Ordinal left of our clan. I have not sensed any link between us anymore so I cannot be certain if she is still alive." Though subtle, her words had reflected worry instead of sadness - something that Aria picked up. Storing it away, she took Chióni's hands and smiled. *** It had been months since Kissa had seen her elder brother and she was truly looking forward to his visit. Ever since they started having wings, Angelo had been under the tutelage of Archangel Zilarrezko -living an ocean apart from her and their other siblings. Her brother had chosen to stay in North America, a trainee Ordinal in the service of the Metal Archangel. They might have been born a year apart but they were as close as twins; almost inseparable as Leiha and Troy. It had broken Aria's heart initially but Angelo had sweet talked his way, as always, and pacified her. After all, he had just turned twenty-one and would have left home to join the Valkyrie Cartel if they hadn't become Angels... Angels -that was something Kissa was still getting used to. It wasn't just about wings and immortality. For her sister Aria, it came with responsibility and for her, there was loyalty. Kissa was now twenty years old; an ambiguous stage straddling adolescence and adulthood -at least according to Aria. Nevertherless, her sister had ordained that she start training to be an Ordinal -not because they were sisters but because Kissa had the potential to be a Cardinal and the Archangel wanted to make sure she reached it. As for the twins, they were beyond elated to find out that they could now fly -or hop around, depending on your point of view. Like two flying lemurs, they were always tumbling about, jumping from cupboard to table and onto every available place that was more than six feet high. Chióni had been training all of them for the past six months but only Aria had managed to make any noticeable progress. Kissa wouldn't stoop to jumping off furniture but she had her own way of practicing - She 'flew' underwater. Chióni had said that wings were not just a pretty accessory but actual bone and muscles. Regular use and strength training would help increase its stamina for sustained flight. So Kissa decided that the best training was to battle the ocean currents, using her wings to keep her afloat instead of threading water with her legs. The first few times, she had nearly drowned but she was getting better. After all, her sister had built their entire fortress in the depths of the Pacific Ocean to remind them that their element was not one to be feared, control or to be tempered - it was simply to co-exist with. That was her philosophy for building The Cove -as it was now called- amongst the life and deaths surrounding the countless sunken battle ships and aircrafts littering the bottom of the ocean. Berths were salvaged to create new living and sleeping quarters while the galleys of these vessels were brought together to form the central kitchen. Lucian had thought it austere to be living amidst a graveyard but the Water Angels had been ecstatic. Ocean life was abundant, hidden amongst the ruins and the wreckage provided a playing ground for them as the sought to explore possible hidden treasures -and the remote possibility of finding surviving Water Angels who had retreated into the pitch-black depths. Kissa didn't think that was possible as those Water Angels would have had to adapt drastically to be able to live underwater for centuries. As far as history and the Lore was concerned, most Water Angels had submitted to the rule of the Snow Queen, either adopting the form of Snow Angels or relinquishing their wings to live as mortal Valkyries. "Kissa! Angelo's here!" That was a running announcement from Leiha -literally -for she had jumped off the stair banister and dashed towards the open courtyard that led to the surface. Kissa barely saw flecks of gold and aquamarine before she was gone. Kissa snapped her blue-tipped silver wings tight and flipped her navy hair back. She wanted to look presentable. It had nothing to do with the accompanying Angel who was with Angelo. Nothing. *** Each time he came to Archangel Aria's home, Marcus would get the jitters and it had nothing to do with the five hour flight across the Pacific Ocean but everything to do with the shy Water Angel walking in her sister's shadow. "Marcus, Angelo." Aria's greeting was polite but he had caught the excitement and happiness brimming just beneath the words. "I hope your journey has been well. Come." Marcus watched as Kissa with her cascading navy hair wrapped an arm around Angelo while the twins plagued him with questions and begged for stories. "Keep your eyes to yourself or I'll gorge them out." Marcus swiftly turned his head towards the voice; guilt evident in his expression as he faced the senior Snow-Water Ordinal. Chióni with her pearly white skin and equally pale feathers had enraptured him on their first meeting -almost a year ago when Archangel Zilarrezko came to speak to the Snow-Water Cardinal then. Her wings were still like carved ice but each time the wind blew, he would see ripples. Marcus decided in their subsequent meetings that despite the warmer climate of the new Water Archangel's palace, Chióni could freeze an entire room just by walking into it. If Anthony had a twin, Chióni would be it. "You do not treasure your eyes it seems." Her azure eyes narrowed warily at him. "As expected of men." With a huff, she turned and walked away haughtily; leaving Marcus temporarily stunned. "Don't worry Marcus. That's just the ice princess's way of giving you a warm welcome." Marcus swore the sudden chill had dissipated and in its place stood a handsome lavender-winged Light Angel, radiating with smiles. "Lucian, it's so good to see you." His former co-Ordinal grinned. "How's our two lovebirds?" Marcus stiffened automatically making Lucian laugh. "I don't mean you! And please you two don't even qualify. I was talking about Anthony and Julia!" "Oh them..." said Marcus, clearly relieved. "Good question. I hardly see them around nowadays." "That's good..." Frowning, Marcus turned to Lucian. "How is that good? They're supposed to be doing their duties instead of leaving me in charge of training Angelo..." At Lucian's amused look, he paused. "What's so funny?" he demanded. Slapping a hand on the Metal Angel's shoulder, Lucian laughed, "You, my dear friend are blind. Come, we'd better join the welcome feast before my little minions ravish the plates clean." *** The descent down the underwater tunnel into the main dining hall had been the toughest minutes of Kissa's life. She swore that the stomps of her feet thundered in the hallway and her weak unbalanced baby wings made her appear clumsy and pretty much immature. Clenching her fist tightly was all she could do to prevent the inevitable flood of tears that were threatening to burst out of her dam of control any minute now... The warm gentle hand on her shoulder startled her slightly. "Chin up ma cherie. Deep breaths. It'll be fine." To give her a few seconds cover to gain composure, Lucian chose that moment to stretch out of his wings in a flamboyant display of his virility. It pleased him to hear a disgruntled cough from the back of the group. Leading the group into the dining hall, Lucian allowed his guests a few moments to admire the stunning construction of the room. Angelo hadn't been to The Cove since it was constructed and now, the young Ordinal was staring up in awe at the beauty of his element. Water - the room was essentially a bubble within a marine tank. Ocean life bloomed beneath their feet, unaware and uninterested by the ministrations of the immortals. His eyes trailed behind the twins as they scampered to the dining table - a beautiful sculpture of raw-cut ice -both fighting to seat beside their brother. Lifting each one at the cuff like two inseparable kittens, Angelo placed one on each of his side before turning to his sister. "It's beautiful. I love it. I love everything about this place. It feels so..." "Homely," whispered Aria, finishing his sentence. The Archangel was too in-tuned with her brother to know that despite the new machismo that he wanted to project, deep inside Angelo missed his family. Not wanting to dwell on the melancholic, Aria ordered them to tuck into the feast. With familiar food warm in his belly, she slowly felt his mood lifting and saw from the twinkle of his eye that her annoying brat of a brother was back in full swing. "So tell me, how's New York?" Putting his fork down, Angelo looked up into the whirling pools of Aria's eyes and snorted. He knew her too well. "He's fine Arreba. I'd say his feathers are quite rumpled -although I can never be sure beneath all that blinding metal sheen." Angelo had barely managed to roll his eyes when the fork that had been set aside simply flew up and aimed perilously close to his forehead. "No Marcus, that's fine," said Aria reassuringly but the Metal Ordinal had stood up. Gone was the shy and uncertain Angel. "You may be in the presence of family but you do not speak ill of your Archangel nor do you speak rudely to another Cardinal in your presence." Rising, Aria spread open her wings and rested one tip on the Metal Ordinal and the other on her brother. "That is enough. We shall speak about this separately because right now I don't want to waste the lovely dessert that Kissa has made. Now sit." At the mention of her name, Kissa straightened her back; eyes cast onto her plate with her cheeks aflamed. Aria did that on purpose! She could feel Marcus's gaze upon her, almost feel his breath across her cheek... A kick. Hard on her shin. "What's your problem?" Her palms banged slightly on the table as she stared hard at Angelo. Adage of the Snow-Water Ch. 01 "No what's your problem?" he retorted even as he stuffed cake into his mouth. You're such a dick. At least I know what one looks like. I'm telling Ahizpa. Dare you to. Don't think I won't! Then I'll tell her you have the hots for Mr Hot Rod here. "Angelo!" Kissa's scream was a strained screech like nails over a chalkboard. "What'd I do?" he grinned, pleased with himself. "For goodness sake! You were all 'I miss you' just an hour ago and now you want to kill each other already?" Aria clearly didn't think being an Archangel made parenting her siblings any less easier. Upset that they had to forgo dessert, Aria stood up, arms crossed in disapproval. "Chioni, Marcus please take your charges. I need to speak to Lucian alone." The two trainer Ordinals got up immediately, chaperoning the minors out of the room. "It's going to be nearly impossible to have those two over in time to come," sighed Aria. "I could kill him for you." The suggestion was made unflinchingly as he swung his feet back and forth while balancing on two legs of the chair. "Lucian..." "Aria..." The two burst into laughter. "Oh Lucian... This is all happening so fast. She's just a baby!" "Not forever, Cardinal. We both know it's inevitable - just like how you and Archangel Zillarezko were. No amount of chains were going to put you down." Her lips curled up in a smile but the whirlpool in her eyes lost their strength. "I miss him." "He'll be here soon enough. He won't miss your coronation for the world. It's going to be very special, I just know it." *** The coronation ceremony was in five days and while the Cove was being dressed up for the occasion, Aria didn't allow her siblings to cut slack on their training. At sunrise, she ordered them to the water's surface to resume training. Lucian had chosen an abandoned island nearest to them and set the pairs to work. Marcus had immediately voted to take Angelo deeper into the forested parts to work on his reconnaissance skills. Chióni on the other hand remained on the sandy beaches. Kissa was not ready for terrain training. It was not her nature to fight and while she had been brilliant in setting up her defences, Kissa had barely any offense capability -which was why Chióni was pushing the girl so hard. She had upgraded the shy Water Angel from a sword to a double-sided naginata to force Kissa into attacking from all fronts. "For goodness sake Kissa, you're not even trying!" chided Chióni as she disarmed her opponent in the blink of an eye; Kissa landing hard on her back, her weapon now pointing at her face. "Again!" It wasn't long before Kissa got knocked out with a blow to her jaw but Chióni was already pulling her up and thrusting a new weapon to the Water Angel - a cross bow and arrow. "Try not to bore me," she warned before taking flight. Lucian watched as the Snow Angel evaded every one of Kissa's attack. She was captivating with her fluid movements and graceful executions -even for an Ice princess. He used the term deliberately to annoy her, simply enjoying the rare flecks of temper she'd reserved specially for him. It was official -he was a sadist. But a pretty one. Watching Kissa fall on her back for the umpteenth time, Lucian decided that it was time for a break. Chióni had descended, her hand stretched out to help Kissa to her feet but Lucian would have none of that. Moving swiftly towards them, his lavender wings purposefully brushing against icy feathers as he bent forward to pull Kissa up and press a kiss on her cheek. It pleased him to hear a disgruntled huff from his subject of interest. "Kissa, practice on your wing movements. I don't want to have them slapping my face every time you lose your balance." "Yes Chióni." "Okay, you can go rest now. I'll see you tomorrow." The gentle pre-Cardinal bowed slightly before dashing off. Lucian knew where his little Angel went at this time of the day. It was their little secret. Finally alone, Lucian fluttered close to Chióni, his lavender wings gently caressing hers -by accident of course. "What do you want?" her curt question did nothing to wipe his smile. "You're too hard on her." Chióni didn't say anything and instead started to pick up the cross bow and arrows on the sand. She was aware of Lucian coming even closer; his fingers playing with her sun bleached golden hair. "Stop that," she commanded -to no effect. The Light Angel continued toying with the ringlets as if they were his own. "Light Angel, if you treasure your hand, you will stop that immediately." His response was to tap her lips with his fingers. "Tut tut. Such threats coming from a pretty mouth. I ought to kiss it all away." Chióni slanted him her most disgusted look. To his credit, Lucian didn't flinch. "Go flirt with someone else Lucian." Fluttering his long -and devilishly distracting -lashes, Lucian leaned closer until their noses touched. "I'd like to flirt with you my Ice princess. You're so much more exciting to play with." She sent a line of Ice shards up his arm, causing him to jump in shock. But to her annoyance, he grinned. The Ice had melted so easily with a touch of his hand; the radiating warmth glowing yellow in his palms. Chióni kept her eyes on them. One touch and she might just melt -literally. So for the first time in her life, Chióni withdrew from battle, if she could call it so. As much as the Light Angel annoyed her, he had a way of crawling into people's hearts and making them do things for him... liking him. But Chióni wasn't most people. *** Later that day, Chióni found Aria and Kissa working on her coronation dress. It was impressive how the sisters managed to create a dress that was pure liquid and yet sturdy and solid enough like ice. "Cardinal, if I may speak my mind." "Of course." Pausing her sewing, Aria looked up in attention. Chióni straightened her back and leaned closer to whisper. "I urge you to reconsider inducting the Light Angel into our service. I find him unbearable to work with." Unable to hold back her laughter, Aria covered her mouth with both hands, much to the annoyance of the Ordinal. "I'm serious, Cardinal!" "So am I!" Aria flicked a tear from the corner of her eyes. "He's been a treasure and I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for him. You just need to lower your guard slightly Chióni and you'll see what a gem he is." Chióni pursed her lips in disagreement. Lowering her guard was exactly what she was afraid would happen. There was no way that she'd let a pompous, charm-talking butterfly past her defences. "Fine. But I will not claim responsibility for any injuries inflicted on said Ordinal." "Deal," replied Aria, still chuckling as she picked up her coronation dress. Leaving the sisters, Chióni made her way to her quarters for an early night. Aria had assigned her to assess if any of the new Water Angels that had followed them to the nearby islands were potential Ordinals for her service. It was going to be a long day. Which was why the scent of lavender in the air irked her senses. Fighting the urge to kick down her door, Chióni opened it gently in a bid to surprise her intruder. Her patience lasted a second. "What are you doing here?" she snapped. He was rummaging her fridge with a slice of cheese in between his lips and a tub tucked under his arm. "And that's mine. Get your own damn ice cream!" Her irritated tone was fuel for his mischief as he flashed her a look that was devoid of any guilt. Lucian lived for moments like these -when she was so caught up with her emotions that she forgot to keep her guard up. Still chewing on the cheese with a spoon in his hand, he shrugged. "I'm seducing you." He said it so matter-of-factly that Chióni was sure it was tongue-in-cheek. Damn him! Always saying ridiculous things to rile her for nothing. "Yeah, go seduce the other Angels. You know they enjoy it." His reply was to grin, neither denying nor confirming her statement. Somehow that annoyed her even more. "I'm not good company for Light Angels -especially when I haven't had my dinner. Now move or I'll freeze your ass." "Aww... my ass isn't half that bad. Tell you what. Why don't you sit down and I'll make dinner?" At her suspicious look, he winked. "I promise I won't deliberately add love potions." Chióni didn't even bother to snort. She simply walked away towards her sleeping quarters, slamming the door behind her. He watched the sway of her hips even as she stormed off and knew his sadistic streak was going to get him in trouble -not that he'd minded if she was the one giving the punishment. It had been gratifying enough to see that beneath all that frigid veneer was a temper too wild to be tamed. It made him think of other heated passions and shook his head. That would be for another time. Tonight, he was going to keep to his word. Rummaging through her kitchen, Lucian waltz his way from sink to stove and allowed his ministrations to stew before leaving her quarters to head towards his own. Meanwhile, Chióni was trying very hard to ignore the aroma that was seeping into her bedroom but the rumble in her stomach was proving mutinous. At the turn of the lock of her front door, she peeped out to make sure he had left. Grateful for the warmth of the broth, Chióni sat at her table and sighed. Damn it can he cook! "Alright! I admit it. He's a gem." Hating herself for the admission, Chióni considered the Light Angel's appeal. Though Lucian had a face that was boyishly pretty, it wasn't delicately so. The stubborn tilt of his chin, expanding into a hard jawline often reflected an unflinchingly adult expression in his eyes. His lovers would no doubt have paraded him around like a trophy -something he would gladly partake -but Chióni had seen the loneliness beneath all the baubles and knew it was all a mask. Still... he annoyed her to the bone. *** It was still dark when Chióni surfaced on land with Kissa in tow. The sleepy-eyed Angel was nearly tripping over her own wings but she made no complaint as they trudged up to the farthest edge of the island where sand receded to rocks. Looking up at the towering lighthouse, Chióni caught sight of Lucian standing by his window, his face tilted towards the oncoming rise of the sun. Archangel Aria had granted him this exception to live above water - much to her chagrin. But watching him take in the glow and warmth of the sunlight in that moment, Chióni realised how little she knew of the existence and complexities of other Angel clans. Like a morning glory, his lavender wings seemed to absorb the welcoming rays; bursting into a radiant glow of purple. His face lit with smiles finally looked down at his waiting visitors. Spreading his wings, Lucian took a leap out of his window and landed in front of Chióni and Kissa. "Let's go! Lots to do, lots to see!" he chirped, one arm curled around each of them. While Kissa leaned gratefully against him, Chióni gave a low growl and pulled away, choosing to fly ahead. "Catch up," she warned, flapping her wings hard in an attempt to catch the morning breeze. By noon however, the three Angels found themselves sitting under a palm tree on one of the inhabited islands. The former Snow-Water Angels were not interested in becoming Ordinals. For most, adapting to the new climate and abilities was a struggle. Chióni had spent a good portion of the morning teaching them how to shed the ice coating on their wings and she was now exhausted. "It feels wrong not to feel any connection to them," said Kissa as she cut open a coconut. "I thought we'd feel a sense of something... but nothing." "It'll take some time," Chióni reassured her. Not everyone is resilient to adapt to change - especially not those who have been under the harsh rule of Archangel Yuki. It had been mandatory for all displays and features of water to be eradicated under her reign. To re-learn how to play with your element again would be a feat especially for those who were born after the Water-ban. They would probably not even know that Snow and Ice were forms of Water much less know how to create water and manipulate it. Lucian caught her gaze for a moment and she saw that he understood what she was not saying to the young Water Angel. It comforted her slightly. "Chióni..." Kissa suddenly dropped the coconut she was drinking from. The sand beneath them was trembling; the palm trees above them shaking vigorously. "Up!" ordered Chióni; her wings catching the steady gusts in the air with Lucian not far behind. She barely had time to turn and help Kissa when the earth gaped wide open like a yawning whale. "Chióni!" Kissa's scream was like an arrow piercing the air between them; her fingers desperately clutching at the soil even as it was trying to swallow her whole. The Snow-Water Ordinal was by her side within a heartbeat, her hands wrapped tight around the young Angel as she fought hard against the tempestuous winds caused by the earthquake. Almost as quickly as it started, the tremors ended. Still mid-air, Chióni kept position, her eyes zeroing in on a single movement shrouded by the unsettled dust. Lucian. I see it He was barely a flicker of a light as he zoomed straight into the cavern. Lucian was sure he recognised the seismic energy radiating from the earthquake earlier. There was no mistaking the gravitational power that can only be manipulated by - An Earth Cardinal. *** Glossary Cardinal - an Angel of the highest rank. Usually the reigning Archangel. Less than 3 per clan at every one time. Ordinal - an Angel of the second highest rank. Often forming part of an Archangel's service. Less than 25 per clan Clans - Angel clans by the elements (light, darkness, fire, water (sometimes referred as snow-water or snow), earth and metal. Valkyrie - former angels who have given up their wings to live as mortals. Often Valkyries are conscripted to be part of armies and mercenaries for Archangels Snow-water /snow angels - angels who were under the reign of Yuki and/or still display such characteristics. Chióni is often still referred to as a Snow-Water Ordinal because of her physical appearance that has both ice and water elements. Adage of the Snow-Water Ch. 02 A parrot - that was what Lucian saw. Blue feathers tipped with bright red and yellow. And then she appeared. Hair the colour of dark oak trailed between her wings, down to the ground; her skin was chocolate and smooth like sculpted clay. But it was her face that took his breath away. Where her eyes were supposed to be, they were hollowed rounds framed by a mask of blue parrot feathers that seemed to blend straight onto her face. And yet she was looking at him as though she could see right through him. "Hello?" A cautious greeting. Lucian kept his eyes on her - a hawk assessing a predator. She looked like nothing he had ever seen before. Colourful like a Light Angel and yet so grounded... like Gaia. An Earth Angel? Impossible! And yet, he had to admit, there was an earthly signature to her: luscious hair that roped like wooden vines, the freckles on her legs resembling the bark of oak, and her lip - so blue with flecks of green and brown on them as though... She had the kiss of Earth itself. Intrigued, he moved closer to examine the continents, surprised at how accurate a depiction they were. "What are you doing here?" Her voice was gentle, her words spoken in a sing-song manner. "My name is Lucian," he began cautiously. "I am an Ordinal in service of Archangel Aria. She has built her home not far from here and we are merely exploring the nearby islands." "We?" Her back feathers fanned out defensively, anticipating an attack. "My fellow Ordinals and I mean no harm. One is merely a child. She will not hurt you." "And the other?" "My senior Ordinal knows better than to attack a powerful being without the consent of her Archangel." She made no reply and instead moved closer to rest a palm on his cheek. "I see. And you are... a Light Angel?" Her fingers traced his face and rested on his lips, feeling his smile. "Ah, and a very handsome one I must say. I can feel your heat - a mild tempered warmth. Not a Fire Angel," she whispered, as though anticipating his question. "And you are an Earth Angel." "Indeed. My name is Anhē." The Earth Angel tilted her face to the sky, as though checking out the weather. "Archangel Aria? Is she the one who's been averting all the hurricanes due this way?" Lucian smiled. "She is the Archangel of Water. Weather is her thing." Anhē frowned, the lines marring her smooth features. "Water? I have not heard of that element for so long. Is she of the deep sea?" Frowning this time, Lucian shook his head. Just where has this Angel been the past few months? And how did an Earth Angel - one that had been awaken mere weeks ago manage to create such a catastrophe like the one they just witnessed? Unless of course, she wasn't an infant Angel... There was just something about Anhē that tugged at him; her essence was calling to him. She didn't seem dangerous and yet he knew she had so much latent energy. His intrigue of her was growing by the minute. Who the hell was she? "Tell me Lucian of the Light clan, what colour is your wings?" "Lavender. Just like the scent." He tried not to stiffen when she brushed her nose on the down of his wings. "Such softness," she whispered. "Do you always carry your sensuality so proudly like this all the time? Takes a lot of confidence." "I am what I am. I do not pretend to be otherwise." The Earth Angel broadened her smile. "I like you." Looking up towards the sky once more, she whispered, "It seems we are no longer alone." Chióni with Kissa in her arms were descending onto the sandy shores. Lucian saw the warrior stance on Chióni's face and knew that he had to step in before she launched an unnecessary attack. Chióni,it's fine. Please stand down. Sky blue eyes widened in surprise. Was that an order? Lucian knew he had crossed a line slightly but he kept his gaze on her until she relaxed a fraction. "Lucian?" Anhē drifted close, her hand finding solace in his presence. "Is the Water Archangel you speak of?" Lucian gestured to Kissa, bidding her to come closer. The shy, cautious Angel stepped forth, allowing Anhē to reach for her midnight hair; her fingers idly combing the strands. "I am a Water Angel, though just a child. Aria is my elder sister." Anhē continued to caress her hair, bobbing her head in agreement with her own thoughts. "And yet, you are almost a Cardinal yourself." Anhē smiled as she tilted Kissa's face up to face her. "You have such a gentle spirit young Angel and I bet your sister is too." "Would you like to meet her for yourself?" Lucian offered. Parrot wings spread out taut; the warning in them clear. "Why should I?" Her tone suddenly crisps. Lucian's lips curled into an arrogant smile, his wings brushing against her skin delicately. "Because I would like to spend more time with you." Her response was pure delight; laughter causing two dimples at the sides of her cheeks. "You're a tease. Aren't you just a little baby?" she retorted. "You're welcome to find out." Though he couldn't see her, Lucian could feel Chióni's deathly stare penetrating his back. Anhē however, looked pleased with herself for having garnered such attention. Taking her arm into his own, Lucian gave it a soft pat. So he liked older women. Chióni should have known that by now. Although...if Anhē was indeed Gaia's contemporary, then she would be a few million years older than him - the very least. Which would make her, a Cardinal. *** Chióni's reaction to Lucian's suggestion was a sub-zero degree stare that could have burn a hole in his eyes. Kissa on the other hand was exhilarated. Anhē seemed to be a treasure trove of knowledge - especially about Water Angels and Kissa was just as excited to let Aria meet her as Lucian was. Come on Chióni, she's blind. Another icy look - this one was laced with pure venom. And your point is? Whatever Lucian wanted to say was interrupted by Anhē's gasp as she was led underwater via the tunnels. "No, no! I can't! Please! I can't feel anything beneath my feet!" Feathered wings fluttered in panic. "It's alright Anhē. We won't go too deep under, I promise. I'm right here with you," said Lucian, quickly leaving Chióni to be by the Earth Angel's side. His presence seemed to comfort her a little for she clasped her wings tight, forming a protective shell around her body. True to his word, Aria was already waiting at the open deck of their main hall for her guest. "Archangel, let me introduce you to Anhē. She is a Cardinal Earth Angel." "Anhē, this is Archangel Aria of the Water clan." If she was shocked, Aria made no show of it. She simply stepped forward and stretched out her hands to receive her special guest. Seeing that the Earth Angel made no corrections to her status, Aria had to assume she was indeed dealing with a fellow Cardinal. Anhē on the other hand seemed unperturbed by the presence of an Archangel. She simply accepted Aria's hands and gently turned her palms upwards; tracing the lines as though reading a story from the creases. As the Earth Angel examined her hands, Aria lifted her eyes to look at her Ordinals. Chióni's stance was pure defensive; her hands perched on the hilt of her sword, ready to slice up their guest at a moment's notice. Lucian and Kissa on the other hand were like a pair of gossip girls, whispering wickedly at the idea of having a powerful Earth Angel in her service. Aria however didn't think that was possible. Anhē was a Cardinal and while she seemed unaware of the recent events, Aria could not trust her wholeheartedly. Hadn't Gaia been just as elusive? And her kindness and help had a price to it - her wings. "Anhē, if I may ask, have you always been in this form all your life?" Dropping her hands, Anhē reached forward to touch Aria's face. "I was never a Valkyrie like you were, if that's what you're asking. I live amongst the birds and migrate as a flock with them." That was almost impossible to comprehend. How could it be that she still retained her wings when Gaia herself has lost hers, reducing her clan to wingless humans? The answers were yet to come. What better way to find out than to allow Gaia to meet her in person at the coronation ceremony? The other Archangels might also be able to shed some light to the mystery. "Anhē, I am very happy to have met you. Earth Angels are always welcomed in our home." "As I, Aria. Perhaps we could talk more next time when my feet are on dry land." "Of course, my sister will escort you back to the surface. However, if it pleases you, our home is open for all on the eve of the winter solstice for my coronation ceremony. I would be honoured if you could come." "Then it would be my pleasure," she replied, getting to her feet. "Till we meet again." As a parting gesture, the Earth Angel bowed low, her wings spread open, touching the ground. Aria watched as her guest ascended back to the shore before turning to her remaining two Ordinals. "I take it the search didn't go well?" Chióni relayed to her Cardinal the events that happened earlier that morning. Lucian finished off with their encounter with the Earth Angel. "You seemed intent that she should be part of the service Lucian," noted Aria. "Not worried she'll be competition for the prettiest feathers?" "Hey hey! You adore my purple fluff please." At Chióni's solemn cough, he straightened up and continued. "I think there is value in courting her, Archangel. No one has ever had an Earth Angel in their service before and I just have a good feeling about it. I know she knows a lot more about the Water Angels than she's willing to share." "We cannot just base our decisions on your good feeling. It's too much a risk having two Cardinals at the top hierarchy of a clan. That's what causes mutiny and discord," warned Chióni. Aria understood her concerns entirely. It was too soon since the last shift in power between Yuki and herself for another one to happen. "I've already invited her to the coronation. Whether or not she chooses to participate in the tests is up to her." Aria looked at her Ordinals and then turned away. "She seems like such a free spirit. It would feel almost like I'm caging if she becomes my Ordinal." And was that even right? How does a Cardinal even step down to the level of Ordinal and obey her orders? Aria knew she had neither seniority nor powers over Anhē. "Ordinals have been stepping up into the shoes of Archangels all the time," retorted Lucian, reading her concerns too well. "Take Andhera for example. I don't see why the opposite will be a problem." "Lucian, let's give us some time to get to know her. I know you're smitten but for the rest of us..." Aria's gaze landed knowingly on Chióni. "Sometimes it takes a very powerful moment to snap the bond between Angels in place." Lucian knew that was how Chióni ended up loyal to Aria but for some reason the bond between them did not extend between Chióni and himself. However, he had felt something with Anhē and he damn well would make sure Aria felt the same. "Look, you've still not found a way to unseal the Water Lore and maybe this is your chance to learn how! Why are you being so stubborn?!" "Lucian!" Chióni's slap across his face was so unexpected that Aria had to take a step back. "Leave!" Stunned, Lucian remained rooted for a second before the anger started to seep through. Turning on his heels, he marched out of the main hall, chin up and his wings trailing behind him in a dramatic show of rejection. "I can't say he deserved that," said Aria with a sigh. "But he can sometimes think too much with his heart than his head." Chióni said nothing. "I suppose that will come between you two more often than I'd like." Heading to her chambers, Aria glanced at her Ordinal one last time. "Work it out." *** Lucian was fuming! She had slapped him in front of their Archangel like he was a petulant child. He was an Ordinal, just like her! So what if she was a few centuries older? He was Aria's Ordinal first. And if anything, that gave him seniority. Clearly pissed off, Lucian marched his way to Marcus and Angelo's temporary quarters. At least the boys would be more understanding. Women! Marcus however, was nowhere to be found, leaving Angelo glued in front of his Xbox. "Hello Angelo. Aren't you supposed to be training?" "Nah. We're done. I knocked Marcus flat to the ground so many times, he gave me the day off." Arching an eyebrow, Lucian savoured this fresh piece of news and considered how best to milk it to his advantage. He had no doubt that Marcus was with Kissa. Somehow those two had managed to sneak off and... Ice. Lucian quickly hid himself behind a heavy wooden door. If he wasn't so pissed off with her, he would have jumped and entertain himself with her array of curses. "Hi Angelo, is Marcus here?" Angelo gave her the same response he gave Lucian. Unsatisfied with his answer, Chióni left and headed towards the upper courtyard that led to the surface. Curiosity got the better of him. What did she need Marcus for? And if Marcus was indeed sniffing around his little Water Angel - god bless him - then it was best that he followed her and stop her path of destruction. Knowing Chióni, she would shred Kissa to pieces if she caught the Angel even within an inch of the Metal Ordinal. "Not everybody's a cold hearted bitch," he murmured even as his gaze landed on the alluring sway of her hips. As the first whiff of fresh salty air hit him, Lucian couldn't help but feel uplifted. Cooped up underwater with a cranky Snow-Water Ordinal was no good for his spirits. Up here where the sun was strong and the wind was cool - he felt at peace. Kissa... where are you? I just left Anhē back on her island. Is... is there something wrong? Depends. Are you with Marcus? Her moment of hesitation was answer enough for Lucian. Chióni's looking for him. I'll see you at my place. *** Kissa was unsure why Marcus had followed her. It wasn't as though they had anything to talk about. In fact, he barely spoke to her besides saying hi. Didn't he know how uncomfortable he was making her? And now, Chióni was looking for him. Maybe she found out about the little crush she has on him and was now about to reprimand him for it! Covering her face with her hands, Kissa shook her head vigorously. "I'm sorry Marcus, I have to go. Please head back to the Cove," she half whispered, half croaked before dashing away. "No, wait!" Strong hands grabbed her wrists, twirling her to face him. Standing face to face, Kissa saw the liquid bronze of his eyes up close for the first time. It was beautiful. Fearing that she was way out of his league, Kissa resisted the urge to trace a finger along the shape of his eyes. But what happened next rendered her limbs jelly. Soft lips had touched hers; fleetingly like a promised caress to her senses. Kissa barely had time to register his taste when he broke the kiss, eyes boring into hers. "You'd better go. Chióni is looking for you." Untangling her hand from his grip, Kissa pulled away and disappeared before he had a chance to catch up with her again. Marcus was contemplating tracking her down when he sensed the cool crisp presence of the Snow-Water Ordinal. "There you are." "Chióni, how may I help?" Marcus watched as the usually standoffish Ordinal relaxed a fraction, even giving him a warm smile. "I think it's best if we discuss this in my quarters. It's not something that I'd like to broadcast in public." Marcus was sure that she gave the nearby bush a quick glance before reaching out for his hand. "It's important. Come." Regardless of what he felt, Marcus had to accede to her request as she was a higher ranking Ordinal. Chióni's quarters as it turned out was quite the opposite of the façade she often portrayed. There was warmth amidst the cold wood and steel frames of the salvaged ships. Crocheted pieces were strewn across furniture to create a very homely feel. "Sit," she ordered. Marcus obliged. "Is it about Angelo?" Better not be about Kissa. "Oh no. This is about Lucian." "Oh." Letting out a relieved sigh, he leaned back into his seat. "You finding him a nightmare?" In more ways than one, thought Chióni. "Well, you've worked with him before. You'd probably be able to answer that yourself." She sure doesn't give anything up, huffed Marcus. No wonder those two are at loggerheads with each other. "Of all the Ordinals, Lucian was the one closest in age to me. We were both adopted into the clan and I think that made us more like brothers than fellow Ordinals." At Chióni's silence, he continued, "Neither Archangel Zilarrezko nor Archangel Aria has any problems with him, so I don't see why you should." "How dare you." Marcus held the Ordinal's gaze. There was no fire to her words and he knew he had hit a spot. Chióni sat slumped in her seat, her wings drooping slightly. He couldn't blame her. She was all that was left of an empire that was the strongest and largest amongst all the clans. He admitted - it was remarkable for an Ordinal to single-handedly train an entire crew of young Angelings, mainly Aria's siblings and to also tutor existing Snow-Water Angels in the art of adaptability. Well, at least that's what Kissa said. Marcus swore that the young Angel worshipped the floor that Chióni walked on. "How's Kissa's training coming along?" he asked, hoping to elicit her usual cold snarls. To his pleasure, it did. "Keep your eyes off my trainee, Ordinal. You've got your hands full enough." Chuckling, Marcus leaned back, clearly satisfied that she was slightly relaxed now. "Well, look at it as two trainers comparing notes. I mean, Angelo is a prodigy I tell you. So I'm just wondering if it runs in the family." "Well, she isn't Angelo that's for sure. It's her nature not to fight and no amount of prodding and poking is going to change that to be honest." Curious, he leaned closer; fingers tapping on the table. "Not a fighter? A healer perhaps?" Sky blue eyes snapped up to look into his. Chióni hadn't considered that. True, each Angel could, to a certain extent heal themselves... but what if Kissa was an Angel made only to heal? If she was on a balance scale, Kissa would represent the other extreme of an offence-capable Angel. "I think you're on to something there, Metal Angel." A thoughtful pause. "Well, what do you know, this note-sharing thing is of some value after all." A rare smile curled up on her face, mirroring that on Marcus. "So tell me Marcus, what do you plan to do to get past me to claim your Angel?" Immediately, his smile faded, replaced with a determined scowl. "I don't get what you mean." "Sure you do." Another rare chuckle. "I'm going to let you off the hook for this afternoon but I won't make it that easy the next time." Marcus was sure she was just pulling his leg but from what little he knew of Chióni, he wasn't going to take his chances. All bets are on. "We'll see. I'm sure I can fly faster than you." A smirk. "Then you'd better start mounting your wings." *** Across the Atlantic, Archangel Zilarrezko was flexing his wing muscles in preparation for the long flight. Being tired was the last thing he wanted on his mind. He would rather bundle Aria up in his arms and hide in a hole together forever; away from everything and everyone. It was a disease, Noor had warned. Zilarrezko wasn't complaining. On his bed lay a small box bearing a special present - one that needed to be earned as part of his elemental trial. Adage of the Snow-Water Ch. 02 To test the mental acuity of her Ordinals, he had constructed one of the most complex intertwined metal structures with the aim of having each and every piece untangled within a time limit. It was a difficult task for those who were impatient and unable to think out of the box. His only concern at the moment was the number of Ordinals who were pledging their services to her. They were too few and unvaried. A Metal Ordinal or a Fire one would be of some good to her. However, apart from Marcus, the Metal clan was still too young to nurture enough Angels to Ordinal status yet. "I'll inform flight control in France." Zilarrezko smiled, angling his head slightly towards Anthony. He must have been thinking out loud for Anthony seemed to have come to the same conclusions as he did. Aria could do with a Fire Ordinal. The only problem was -they were few and almost difficult to procure. It didn't help that entering France- the centre of Archangel Cyrus's base - was difficult and time consuming. Strict Angel flight and landing protocols meant that Angels needed permits to land in specific zones and at specific times. Especially now. With the influx of Earth Angels seeking refuge in safe territories, Archangel Cyrus had excessively clamped down access into his lands, allowing entry only via flight channels -which the Earth Angels were unable to as most were still learning how to balance with their new wings. "Perhaps we should take the jet." The two Angels turned towards the feminine voice lingering by the doorway. Julia, with her long white hair and smooth mahogany skin, floated into the room. Beside him, Anthony stiffened even more than his usual self. The disease Noor mentioned was affecting more than one member of the family it seems. "Can you chart the nearest landing site to Aria's headquarters? We may have to fly in from there." Julia nodded, gracefully moving closer to her Archangel. "Although... I don't see why she would need a Fire Ordinal to be honest. Lucian is more than capable of providing any fire power she might need." "Are you saying that one of us here is redundant?" A low warning growl from Anthony. Julia simply looked at him lazily. "It is undeniable that one can exist without the other." The tension between the two of them buzzed like an overheated engine. It would be a matter of time before they'd jump at each other. Zilarrezko could watch them debate the whole day - of which they could - but their time was limited. "That's enough for now. You two seriously need to work on your concept of foreplay." At their mutinous silence, he continued. "The aim is not to give her the best Ordinals. I want her to have the choice and variety of choosing them. What she decides after, is up to her." Julia bit her lips, brows knit in obvious disapproval but she remained silent; her arms crossed. "Since that's settled, let's head east now. I want to catch Cyrus before he leaves for Aria's." *** When she heard the knock on her door, Chióni got up, slightly bouncing in her steps. She was feeling playful after her promised challenge with Marcus earlier. Perhaps he wasn't so bad after all. "Did you forget something?" All light—heartedness evaporated at the sight of her unwelcomed guest. Staring into lavender eyes, she leaned against her door frame, arms crossed. "What do you want?" Her tone fell flat and sharp. Oh he wanted so many things - like having her pursed lips tangled with his or hearing her sigh when he licked that sweet spot behind her ear... But more importantly, he wanted to know what she and Marcus were discussing in secret. Surely if it was Ordinal business, he would be informed. And that ridiculous cheerfulness on her face! Did Marcus put it there? Damn that two-timing bastard. "Well? I don't have all day you know." Lucian wasn't in the mood for pleasantries anymore. The fact that someone else had made her limber and contented made him forget what he was really there for. "Do you always have a stick up your arse or is that only reserved for me?" He barely caught the flash of anger in her eyes before the door slammed in his face. "Bitch," he murmured to himself. He was much better off on land anyway; far from the stifling cloister of her underwater quarters. He was still grumbling when he felt a giant mass of coldness slam into the back of his head. And all he saw next was the wooden flooring of the repurposed ship. "Aria shouldn't have allowed you into her service. It was a mistake; an oversight on her part." Turning on her heels, she retreated to her quarters stopping at the last moment to give him a final look of disappointment. "If you have any dignity at all, you should leave. You're only going to bring trouble and misery to this clan." He heard the slam of her door and waited until he was sure she wasn't going to come out again. Lucian didn't dare to get up otherwise. With rage fuelling his strength, he would have barged into her room and taken her down - she would thank him later for it but Lucian didn't think he'd want his first time with her to be a mess of anger and hormones. "You're killing me Chióni. Why do I always have to go for the difficult ones?" Rolling on his back, he gazed up onto the transparent ceiling showcasing the bounty of the sea swimming freely overhead. Some would call it beautiful but it made him sick with claustrophobia. Perhaps Chióni was right. He didn't fit here. What Ordinal lives apart from his Archangel? What use will he be if he couldn't rush to her aid in a heartbeat? Aria had been so gracious and kind to allow him to stay on land when she could have ordered him underwater just like everybody else - maybe that was a mistake. With wings drooping like melting lavender ice-cream, Lucian made his way back up into the warm, oxygen rich world where at least he felt comfortable. Where he would usually fly to the lighthouse entrance, this time he chose to climb the stairs. The old crumbling rock steps hadn't been refurbished so the hike up was done amidst mould and grime. Lucian didn't mind. It gave him extra time to think about Chióni and what she had said. She must really despise him. Good looks it seems were not what got into her charm books. Maybe she went for the manly, brawns type like Marcus - who for the love of life does not know how to tell a good joke. Who'd fall for that? "Ah damn it." A single midnight blue rose at his porch. Kissa. She, with all her sweetness and innocence, had chosen Marcus as her strong protector and Lucian would have relented - except that Marcus might be simultaneously kindling Chióni's inner flame. There was no way in hell that Lucian would allow his baby girl to get hurt. Leaving flowers at his doorstep was their secret way of setting up a meeting, at their special place. And perhaps tonight, they'd seek some comfort in each other amidst the floating bad news. Picking up the rose, he tucked in his breast pocket and unfurled his wings. With only the moonlight as a guide, Lucian soared in the night heading north-west to a small island off the tip of the south-east Asian continent. She was already there. Hair fanned out behind her as she lay on the soft grass staring at the cloud of eagles in the sky. "You're late," she announced the moment he touched down. "My apologies ma chérie. You know I wouldn't keep you waiting unnecessarily." Sitting up, she twisted her body slightly to stare at him. Lucian knew that look. Oh boy was he in for a night of tears. "Kissa..." he warned even as she inched closer, eyes almost shining in the night; her face full of smiles and promises. "He kissed me today! He kissed me! He kissed me!" she shouted, jumping onto her lavender Angel in a fierce bear hug. Perhaps it was best to allow her this one night of happiness. One heart broken was already one too many for Lucian. "Tell me all about it!" he chirped; worry lines ceasing to exist as his signature grin took its place. "Oh Lucian... it was perfect. I... I couldn't breathe, couldn't speak, couldn't do anything! Oh my god Lucian, I didn't even kiss him back! Is that bad?" What was bad was how she was gripping his arm so tightly but Lucian simply laughed. "Oh no! I think that's wonderful. Small steps my princess." "I want to kiss him again!" Her eyes widened suddenly, a maelstrom creating chaos in the darkness of her pupils. Then her head crashed onto his shoulder. "I feel awful! Lucian! That's just a terrible thing to say isn't it?" Lucian brought his hand around her to gently stroke back her black locks. "It's not wrong to want somebody so much but sometimes it can really hurt." Kissa caught the slight tremble in his voice and pulled away. Lucian was looking completely like his normal self but there was something there... something that hurt. It was a deep ache that she was slowly starting to feel it in the depths of her heart. He was hurting. Why hadn't she seen this before? Had she been so blinded by her own emotions to sense this from her only friend? "Lucian?" She tilted his chin up to look at her and saw the truth behind the soft violet eyes. No... He was hurting for her. "Don't you dare lie to me Lucian." It wasn't a threat. Kissa couldn't bring herself to hurt anyone that way. It was merely an urging to know more. She had to! Knowing there was no way to hide from her, Lucian gave in with a big sigh. "You should stay away from Marcus, Kissa." "Why!" "Because I don't want you hurt." Her eyes narrowed suspiciously. "You can't protect me forever Lucian. Spit it out." Groaning, Lucian fell backwards, landing on the soft grass; hands covering his face. "I think something is going on with Marcus and Chióni. There! There I said it!" She was obviously not expecting that. Blinking back the shock, Kissa settled herself next to Lucian; one wing around his shoulder. They sat that way for a long time, simply admiring the view of the sea and the sounds of the eagles. "You should court her." Kissa finally stood up, a foot stamping the ground in support of her decision. "I know you secretly want to." "What's the point. She hates me." He told her what happened earlier outside her quarters. "You are the most wonderful Angel I have ever met. No one has ever failed to resist your charms! Come on, you even managed to convince Aria that you should live in the lighthouse all by yourself. I doubt Archangel Zilarrezko would give in to such a request." "She's got a soft spot for me and I shamelessly exploited it," he confessed sheepishly. "But look, Chióni isn't your ordinary Angel. She has ice running in her veins. She doesn't feel nor does she cares. Surely you know this better than I do." A look at her scabs and yellowing bruises confirmed that much. But Kissa was adamant. "Let's take it as a challenge. I will take your advice and keep my distance from Marcus and you will take my advice to court Chióni. If you get her to kiss you before I get one from Marcus, then you'll get to stay in your towering Lighthouse." Lucian's head snapped up. What did she just say? Surely she cannot... "That's blackmail." "Hey, I'm pre-Cardinal. That makes me higher ranking than both of you so suck it up." Rolling his eyes, Lucian considered Kissa very carefully. So sneaky for such a docile creature! "And what if you get kissed before me - when you're not supposed to?" "Then I shall take residence at your place as punishment. And you will take mine." She was serious. Lucian knew how much she hated being trapped in anything concrete. "And Aria?" "I'll talk to her about it." "No! Don't you dare! This is between you and me." The two Angels regarded each other suspiciously. "Fine. We'll report here to each other weekly on our progress." "Deal." *** Archangel Cyrus wasn't too pleased to have guests while preparing his test for Aria's coronation. It was so like him - competitive and secretive. Zilarrezko had to remind him that there were no prizes for the toughest test. "Still, I'd appreciate a bit more notice before you come barging in here." Always the diplomat, Zilarrezko bowed his head slightly in apology. "I was merely hoping to save you the energy for the long flight. My jet is at your service." Narrowing his eyes, Cyrus eyed the Metal Cardinal with suspicion. Zilarrezko was not one to offer anything for no reason. So what did he want? Circling the trio, Cyrus studied each of their stone-faced expressions. While Zilarrezko truly wanted to be in the Fire clan kingdom, his two Ordinals did not. Resentment was evident on Julia's face, despite her best efforts to disguise them. Why was that? And Anthony, his dear, dear brother, what would make him re-enter the Fire clan territory - when they had parted on less than cordial ways the last time -unless of course, he felt he had an edge. But over what? "Such a big jet and yet only three of you?" Cyrus took a moment to sneer. "Perhaps you've lost another Ordinal to Aria? That would be a shame." "Cyrus." A low warning growl. "Ah! He speaks!" Crossing over to Anthony, Cyrus stared up into the same amber eyes as his, imploring his brother to divulge the truth about their visit. Your blood is still of Fire. This is where your loyalty should lie. Hooded eyes blinked lazily at the Fire Cardinal. You want something... I know it. I can feel it. Anthony remained impassive. You cocky son of a bitch. What is it! Why are you so confident you'll get it? A supple sensual scent filled the air, distracting the brothers as the main door creaked open. "Archangel... oh! My apologies, I... I didn't realise we had company." Wrapped in a curve-hugging full bodied red velvet dress, Brenna was like sex on legs. Even her voice had a seductive tilt framed by plump rose lips. Cyrus looked at his Fire Ordinal and then at Anthony and smiled. "Oh no Brenna please come and join us. Archangel Zilarrezko here has offered us a ride to the coronation ceremony." "Thank you Cardinal." Her words were meant for Zilarrezko but Brenna only had eyes for one Angel in the room. "Well, Zilarrezko, since you've offered to take us all, let me introduce you to my other Ordinals. I don't think Julia's met all of them yet." Slipping one hand into the crook of Julia's arm, he led her away from the room, aware of her silent protests. With pleading eyes, she willed her Archangel to her aid. Zilarrezko had no choice. "Catch up," he merely said to Anthony as he stormed off behind Julia's trail. Alone with the sensual siren, Anthony was simply annoyed. He had seen the look on Julia's face when Brenna was devouring his body from afar and he didn't appreciate the tinge of hurt in her eyes. "Have you come back for me, Anthony?" Her soothing voice did nothing to tame the flames within him. Damn that Cyrus. He knew how much he hated being around Brenna. "Brenna, you're too beautiful to waste yourself on me. You know it's impossible between us." Moving closer, she leaned forward, palms resting on his chest as she looked up. Her pale brown eyes and the absence of wings - a trick that Brenna had perfected -made her look so forlorn, so normal... so human. Anthony instinctively reacted to his need to protect by gently caressing her head in reassurance. "I can't Brenna and you know that." Her lashes went up in flames. "Why?" Ignoring her question, he placed each hand at the side of her arm and lifted her an inch away from him. Looking down sternly like a strict parent, he frowned and crossed his arms. "We came here to look for a Fire Ordinal. I've been too long away from home to know what our numbers are." A single confused crease marred her flawless face. "I don't understand. Is Archangel Zilarrezko replacing you?" "That is none of your concern." Lips pursed, Brenna stepped back, her eyes glistening in the light. "There has not been many since the last wave. Our kind are dwindling... and not mating." Anthony flicked a warning look. Brenna simply held his gaze defiantly. "But Ignis will be of Ordinal level in a decade or so." Anthony could hear the pride in her voice. Fire Angels rarely speak of Ignis for she was seen as an anomaly. Possessing a flame that was so blue, even her parents initially thought there had been a mix-up during her birth. However, if she was yet an Ordinal that would make her... a baby. "She's 700 years old," corrected Brenna. "Let's take her along with us then." The gentleness in her voice disappeared, replaced by a fierce possessiveness. "No. She's just a baby. If you want a Fire Ordinal, you can have me." "You are bounded to Cyrus." Fire in her eyes, Brenna reached out and gripped his wrist tight. "No, I am bounded only to you." That was one truth that he could never dispute. Apart from her apparent attraction, a Fire Ordinal's true allegiance was to him. Older and more powerful than Cyrus, Anthony knew that he was approaching Cardinal level. But had he unknowingly made the cross over? Brenna would never pledge herself so outwardly otherwise. "Brenna, bring Ignis with you and we will talk about it." The younger Fire Ordinal looked at him dubiously. She knew it was not a promise but Anthony had never asked anything of her before until now. "We'll both be waiting by the jet in an hour. Don't leave without me again." *** Hope you've enjoyed this installment of the story!