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Lost Kingdoms

By: LillyStyle



There are many stories, and many possibilities, but stories are never told when there is no chance of a happy ending. This is a story of a real girl, and a real boy whose love could not be realized, without the help of a tragic event that would scar them both. In a world where fantasy becomes reality our "hero's" face obstacles in their world and the real world.

"Going in!" A male voice rings out through the murmuring of a crowd.

"Wait for everyone!" An annoyed female voice follows.

"Draw its agro quick!" Another mans voice rings out as a clash of steel is heard.

"Protect Diana!" The annoyed female's voice calls out.

"Watch it!" A softer voice squeaks out followed by a ringing spell effect. 

"Hail of arrows is ready let's take it down!" Another male voice rang out excitedly. 

It was just another day and another raid for the group of five who always played Lost Kingdoms together. They don't remember how they met; they just kind of stuck together after. This was not just your average MMO, not it was one people spent their savings on trying to get a spot in the top twenty guilds. This little band of friends had made their way up into the top ten guilds of their favorite game, and they couldn't be happier.

"We can do it!" Their tank called out before the Naga boss slammed its tail onto his shield.

"Just keep the defense up we've got this!" The female mage called out lightning spitting from her fingertips. 

"Keep up the DPS we need to make sure we kill him first!" The fighter, and leader of their group called out twin swords drawn and hacking at the lower part of the Naga's tail.

The archer was not far behind, his quiver loosing arrows fast. "I've got entangle soon, just keep it occupied!" 

A circle appeared around the tanks feet as a woman's voice could be heard chanting. "O'Spirits of the earth grant thy power. Stone Skin!" She called out as the Tanks body hardened under his shield.

"Diana! You're a life saver!" He called out, his shield pushing up in an attempt to knock the Naga King over for a quick victory.

"Do it quick! That spell is new I can't keep it up for long." Diana was a shy girl, and this was her way of making friends and coming out of her shell. Her hands were up in front of her one with fingers in front of her lips, and another outstretched towards Randal, their tank, so the shield would stay on him.

"Leon quick! Take it down!" Randal shouted once the Naga fell over with a loud cry.

A barrage of arrows sprung down around the Naga entangling it in a web of nets. "Got it finally!"

"Nice shot Ace! We can finish it off now." Leon called pulling both swords behind his back. "Miranda do it now!" 

"On it!" Miranda called out her staff holding high in the air "Lightning Strike!" She called out the lightning shooting from the tip to wrap around Leon's sword. 

"Go!" The other four called out in unison as Leon dashed at the Naga jumping onto Randal's shield to propel himself into the air a loud battle cry leaving his lips as he sliced downward through the skull of the Naga king. 

All five members of the group stood shocked, their models breathing heavily and badly wounded. After a loud yell from the Naga King his body turned to stone and slowly began to discinigrate in the wind. Once his body was completely gone a huge "Congratulations" appeared on their screens. After a brief pause all five members began cheering. Diana and Miranda hugged each other tightly as the other three gave out their high fives. 

"First group to beat this fucker!" Randal called out slamming his shield on the ground beating his chest in triumph. 

"That'll boost our points for sure!" Ace called out running to see what loot dropped. 

"We've already moved up because of our last raid, this will definitely put us in a better spot." Leon said looking over towards Miranda and Diana.

"Great job with that spell. I don't think Randal would have been able to keep it up if it wasn't for the stone skin." Miranda said swaying her way over towards the others.

Diana smiled shaking her head as her fingers tapped together nervously. "That's not true, he was doing fine." 

All four of them looked at her and laughed, it was little Diana that brought them all together. Lunar's Eye was formed because of her. Diana was the strongest healer in the game, and many of the strongest guilds were after her from the start. Diana though only had eyes for the band of friends she had been playing with since she started, and from then on their guild grew. 

"Check it out!" Ace called out holding a staff in his hand.

"Don't tell me!" Miranda yelled running towards him.

"Medusa's staff." Leon said silently his mouth dropping. 


All of them ran over towards Ace now, while he was using his last inspection scroll. The Naga King had a chance to drop a rare staff that could be for either a healer or mage. The mage staff would allow the user to turn someone into stone with any spell, for a healer the staff was sought after because with a healing spell any status alignment would be cured. After a few moments Ace's eyes went wide as he looked towards Diana. 

"You were strong before." Holding out the staff to her he grinned from ear to ear. "You're even stronger now."

"Damn it" Miranda sulked before smiling. "You're already getting offers into the top three guilds! You really will get offers now."

Diana took hold of the staff her eyes wide with excitement. "I can't believe it. I never get a rare drop." 

It was true; she normally had to buy her gear off the auction house because Healer drops were so rare. Today was truly a day she would remember.

"Congrats - You'll go far with that, I don't think there's a stronger staff out there." Leon patted Diana's head softly and her model instantly blushed. 

"Come on let's get out of here, it's late and they'll be doing the move ups soon." Randal called out picking up the gold and other loot they'd sell off. 

It didn't take long for the group to leave the dungeon, once they were outside there was another party waiting to take their place. Leon led the group with Ace, Miranda, and Diana in the middle, Randal taking up the rear. In this world you always protected the healer and mage at all cost. The fact that Diana was now carrying a legendary staff would prove that their PVP rate went up, but it also meant they'd win more of their fights. 

"Look who's here." A sinister voice rang out from the hills, a man in black armor came walking out followed by four other members all dressed in black. It was another guild, one that was higher up on the list then Lunar's Eye. Black Horizon, while they were part of the top twenty guilds many opposed it because they did illegal operations on the side. 

"Good evening Sigal." Leon said with a smile. "You'll have to wait for this dungeon to reset, we've already beat it."

A little known fact about Lunar's Eye. They called call each other by their "Real Life" names because they were so close, but they each had their in game personas. Leon was known as Reinheart the leader of Lunar's Eye. Randal was known as Stonehedge the second best tank in the game. Ace was Littlefoot the quickest ranger in the land. Miranda was Blackwidow a mage to be feared. Then there was little Diana known as Serenity which shocked no one because of her healing powers. 

Sigal was obviously upset by the statement and just shook his head. "Leave it to these pests to be the first ones here." 

"It's not our fault we like to keep things punctual." Ace called out standing over near Leon.

"Please let's not fight.." Diana said her hands locked together in front of her. 

"The sissy healer doesn't want to fight, go figure." A tall dark haired woman called out with a tilt of her head.

Leon smiled over towards Diana and waved his hand. "It's late let's get going the announcement will be soon." With that Lunar's eye moved away from Black Horizon and made their way towards the announcement plaza to wait for the upcoming guild ranks. 

Every month each guild is evaluated and given a rank. So far the ranks can be from one to one hundred, of course the lower the number the better the guild. Every guild of Lost Kingdoms has been fighting for months to be ranked in the top twenty. It was announced half a year ago that the top twenty guilds would be able to win an all expense paid trip to the creator's private island for a chance to play the new expansion for the game. Lunar's Eye has been working hard since then, and has worked their way up from number fifty-five to number four. The announcement plaza was already abuzz with every guild in the MMO. Each having their own section to sit at, and many guilds having more then the allotted five party members. While some guilds were big, it didn't mean they were the best. The top five guilds were made up of only five member teams. Lunar's Eye was no different, five noobs meeting up randomly and becoming friends was all they needed and they never offered anyone else a space in the guild. Throughout the two years of playing together the players got to know each other outside of the game. While they had never met in person because of distance, it was not rare for them to call each other or text each other when not in game. 

The two closest were Diana and Miranda who actually went to the same school together. Diana was a chubby girl who didn't now how to react towards anything. While Miranda was a tall good looking girl who took the stage whenever she could. The two became close friends in game and outside of game once they figured out they both went to the same school. An unlikely pair who showed that differences normally made for better friendships. Miranda was also one of the only people Diana could confide in. It was obvious for a very long time to Miranda that Diana had feelings for the leader of the guild, and finally confronted the shy chubby girl. Once the cat was out of the bag Miranda did everything she could to try and get the overly dense Leon to notice. 

"Shouldn't be too much longer now." Leon said as he sat down under the Lunar's Eye canopy. 

"We should move up just from that raid alone, not to mention the other three." Ace stated plopping down next to Leon. 

"We cleared the other three better than any of the other guilds did." Randal said with a loud clang of his shield being set down. 

The two girls took their seats at the back of the canopy, this way their backs were to the wall and the others could easily protect them. It was no secret that many people wanted either Diana or Miranda out of the picture, though while most wanted Miranda dead because of her power, the others wanted Diana because she could heal better then even the highest level NPC's. Diana never spoke much, and when she did she stuttered often and tapped her fingers on anything she could reach, her legs, her staff, and even other fingers. Miranda on the other hand was often hated for winning her duels with ease and making sure everyone k new of her victory. Leon had tried to stop the girl from boasting, but that was damn near impossible. Leon really only wanted to protect Diana since she was the one who hated fighting the most. Well it's not that Diana hated fighting, she hated fighting other players - PvP was not her thing. It wasn't long after everyone was seated that the circle stage lit up and guild names began pouring out of it. Of course the names would only stay hovering over the circle if you were in the top ten. The ceremony usually took about twenty minutes for all the names to appear but this time it was different. Ten names appeared in order from one to ten, these were the names of the top ten guilds in the game. Jumping up Ace looked quickly at all the names, after a moment his head turned tears streaming from his eyes. 

"We did it!" He called out jumping out at Randal and Leon his arms wrapping around them best they could. 

"Did what!?" Miranda screamed moving to the three of them her eyes darting over the names.

Leon was laughing his head shaking slightly "I can't believe it." He said turned towards Diana who seemed utterly confused. "Number two!" He motioned to Diana before walking up to her, his hand quickly going to her head for a quick pat.

It was then the other people in the audience gasped at what was going on. Ten names became twenty and the creator of the game could be heard. The room became silent when he coughed into the microphone his avatar appearing in front of the top twenty guilds. 

"Congratulations to the top twenty guilds. I have mentioned before that the top twenty guilds would have a wonderful prize." With a wave of his hand the names disappeared and an island was now being displayed.

"This is my private island. I have spent years and a fortune making this island an exact replica of our beloved game." He stopped talking a moment letting everything sink in as players cheered, and clapped in awe. 

"If you are a member in the lucky top twenty guilds, you will have an item in your guild bank. This item will give you an access code and a number to call once you log out. It will confirm your plane ticket to the island." As he spoke pictures of what he was explaining appeared on the screen behind him. A model player opened the guild bank and held a small crystal above their head before pretending to dial a phone number, and get on a plane. 

"I look forward to seeing you all on the island. Everything is already paid for; once you arrive on the island you will be brought to your guild house. Further instructions and information will be given there. See you all in a week." With a graceful bow and a sinister grin his avatar disappeared. 

It wasn't long before everyone started to run back to their own guild houses to get their prize. This was a chance in a lifetime and every player in the world had tried for it, if you did not make it there was no turning back. This game would never be just a game anymore for the players of the top twenty guilds for soon the game would be their life. 

*****

Lost Kingdoms Ch. 02



Thank you for the feedback and yes this story was inspired by SAO. I watch A LOT of anime and really enjoy almost everyone I see. While I watched SAO when it first appeared I really didn't think up this story till recently. No I will not be copying SAO in the fact that you are shoved into a game you cannot log out of and if you die in the game you die in real life. This is a story about mixed matched love, since that is what I call my relationship with my boyfriend, and about magic being real. Please enjoy and all feedback good, or bad is welcome.

LillyStyle

***********

Chapter 2

"The instructions seem simple enough." Ace said holding the small box that contained their information. 

"What do you mean simple enough? If they get any simpler he'd be doing everything for you!" Miranda yelled out giving him a quick slap on the head.

Leon just laughed making sure all the in formation was saved to his email. "It's late we all need to get out of here. We'll meet back up after classes yeah? Everyone better confirm their spot before coming back too. We only have a week to grind a few more dungeons to get geared out." 

"As bossy as ever. Later dudes class starts early for me!" Randal said with a wave before his avatar went into it's sleeping state seated by the blacksmith.

"Guess he's right we're on later than normal because of the announcements." With a heavy sigh Miranda waved her hand her outfit quickly changing into her noncombative nightwear. "I'm off. Diana call me in the morning I'll pick you up!" Moving up to her wizards tower she logged off. 

Ace just shook his head before plopping down next to Randal. "She's such a show off. Night guys!" Ace wasn't one for a show he just did what he had to, his avatar went to sleep and he was gone. 

Diana smiled seeing all her friends happy about the trip that would be happening next week. Luckily she was ahead in her studies and could take the time off. How long could they really be kept on this little vacation? Looking towards Leon her face turned instantly red when she realized they were alone together. This really was a rare occasion, normally they were all together and Diana was the first to log off since she was so anal about getting a good amount of sleep.

"Exciting huh?" Leon asked with a bright smile.

"Very... I don't know how I'll handle it." Diana laughed poking at her legs a bit.

"You'll do fine, it'll be good for you to relax a bit you're always so tense." 

"I am not..."

"You're tense right now." 

Leon laughed walking over to her, his hand instantly going to her head for a pat. "You know, the most exciting part of all this is meeting you."

Diana's face instantly lit up, she blinked a few times as she looked up at him. "Really?"

"Yeah don't you think so?" His voice was soft, almost hurt that she wouldn't believe him.

"It's the same for me. Meeting you is what I'm really looking forward to." 

"Then let's make sure to make it a memorable trip." 

Nodding was the only thing Diana could do, she knew her face was redder then the drapes of their guild house. With him so close there was no way she could help herself, or hide that fact. After a moment of the two looking at each other they both laughed, Leon gave her head another solid pat before pointing to his room.

"I'll be going now. See you tomorrow?"

"Bright and early." Diana said with a wave, it was the first time she hadn't just nodded and tapped her fingers together. 

With another smile Leon nodded and made his way to log off. Diana on the other hand just watched him until the little bubble popped up that he had logged off. With a bright grin she darted her way into her own tower before logging off. Tonight was going to be a hard night to sleep.



Diana sat staring at her screen for a moment; she had never talked to Leon like that before. Sure she admired him from afar and Miranda knew how she felt about him, but this was the first time she had talked to him one on one that way. She looked around the room she had known for many years, the anime and game posters were all normal for her. Pulling her headset off she turned her computer off and plopped herself on her bed. Next week would open up a whole new world. With a smile on her face she went through a mental checklist of things she'd need to take care of before the trip, and with that she made the call to confirm her seat on the airplane to the game masters Private Island.

"Do you have everything you need?" Miranda asked pushing her sunglasses further up her nose. She shook her head and pointed at Diana's shirt. "Really? You're going to wear your UIC sweater?" 

Diana on the other hand was busy shoving a suitcase in the back of her slender friends car. "I hope so, not much more can fit in there." She took a deep breath after slamming the trunk shut as she looked down at her sweater. "Why not? It's comfortable and I'm happy to be going there!"

"We're leaving Chicago behind, why would you bring it?" Rolling her eyes Miranda threw her hands up in defeat. "Well off we go then, to paradise!" 

Diana chuckled as the two got into the car; they had gone shopping the day before their trip so they'd have the essentials. For Diana it was just newer clothes than what she already had. Her weight had always been an issue, even though she was not severely over weight, she still wanted clothing that would be modest enough for her. Miranda on the other hand bought anything and everything that showed off her figure. Diana was a bit embarrassed shopping with her, but stuck it out till the end. 

"Nervous?" Miranda asked as her father drove them to the airport.

"A bit, aren't you? This is the first time we're going to meet the others. Not to mention everyone else from the game." Diana replied tapping the window slightly with her nail. 

"I just hope that they're all as cute as I think they are."

"Is that really important?"

"Don't you think it's crazy, that we've been in a guild together for almost three years but haven't seen their faces?" 

Diana shrugged, she hadn't thought of it that way. For her the game was for the game until she met Leon. Leon was really the only one she was interested in meeting but also terrified. 

"Leon is the one you're interested in right?!" Miranda teased breaking Diana out of her trance.

"What!? That's not what I was thinking at all! Besides, it doesn't matter." 

"What do you mean it doesn't matter?"

"Look at me..."

Miranda rolled her eyes, waved her hands in the air, and sighed. "I'll never understand you. You're fine the way you are. So what you're a little chunky? What if he's into that?"

"No ones into that." Diana replied softly before turning her head out of the window and that was the end of that conversation.

Miranda just sighed crossing her arms and staring out the other side of the window. She knew the two would hit it off Diana was just as innocent in real life as she was in game. The girl just needed some self esteem.

----

The flight was long and dull, luckily the two shared a portable DVD player and Ipods or they'd have gone mad. While they had already begun meeting people from the game who lived around their area it was still a flight they dreaded coming back on. They were taken on a private plane that stopped in various places to pick up other players. From the texts the two girls received in between each stop the boys plane had picked them all up so they were comfortably seated and getting to know each other. 

"No fair." Miranda pouted as they stepped out onto the Islands airfield. "They get to meet before we do."

"We're going to meet them soon." She pointed to the flags that could be seen and their guild emblem was among them. "I bet that's where we're going."

"He really did spare no expense."

"Seems that way. Hey look our guild names on that sign." Diana really didn't miss anything; it was why most dungeons were easy with her. 

"Miss Blackwidow, and Miss Serenity?" The man holding their sign asked in a soft voice.

When the two nodded he smiled and pointed to a small boat and handing them both a badge with their class and guild emblems on it. "We'll be heading to the announcement plaza, your other guild mates have already been brought to your canopy."

Looking at each other Miranda grinned and clapped before taking a step into the boat. "Come on! Aren't you excited to see him?"

"Shut up." Diana yelped as she was helped into the boat.

Laughing the boat driver started off once the two were seated. The girls were in awe of the scenery the water was perfectly clear and all the life under it could be seen. The driver pointed things out to them as they past. All of the life was "artificial" to match the creatures you'd see in the beginning area of the game. After about fifteen minutes the boat stopped and the two were helped out. The two didn't even need to be lead to their canopy, everything was an exact replica and the two darted from the boat to where they needed to go. After turning the corner Miranda darted over to the guys knowing instantly who was who because of badges they had on. 

"Randal!" Miranda squealed jumping at him her arms instantly wrapping around his neck. "It's really you guys!" Looking towards Ace she gave him a quick slap on the shoulder.

"Why does he get a hug?" The smaller of the two boys asked raising his fist in the air.

"She's always liked me better." Randal grinned; he was a tall buff man with a gotee setting in. 

"Where's Diana?" Leon's voice rang out from his seat. His chin was in his hand and he looked bored for a moment before he stood up to stand with the rest of them. 

Miranda's mouth dropped open; the boy was gorgeous model like, which took her by surprise. "Well well..Hello to you too leader-san." She joked before turning around. "She's right over.... Diana! Where the hell did you go!?" 

Peeking around the corner she shook her head at Miranda her fingers tapping on the stones of the entrance of the assembly plaza.

"You get over here right this minute! They're waiting." Miranda called out mother like her finger pointed at the girl.

"I don't wanna."

"I don't care what you want!"

The guys started laughing at the two. They were like this in game whenever Miranda wanted to go out and PvP Diana would always protest and the poor girl would be dragged out onto the battle field anyways.

"I'll go get her." Leon said making his way slowly to her.

"I'm sure you will." Ace called after him with a grin. 

Leon looked at the other three with a glare making them all laugh in unison. Miranda turned her attention to the other two and started up their own conversation so the two could talk.

Leon stopped at the wall leaning against it not looking around the corner where Diana was. "Hey." He mumbled softly

"Hey." She answered back.

"Is it ok to look?"

"No..."

"Why not?"

"Because you won't like what you see." 

Blinking a few times Leon tilted his head before pushing himself off the wall. "What makes you think that?"

"I'm not like Miranda."

"I didn't come here for Miranda!" His voice raised slightly in anger. "I came for you."

Diana wiped her eyes, she didn't know why she was crying but she was. Taking a deep breath she stepped out towards him. Fingers tapping against each other and eyes cast downwards she waited for him to notice.

Looking in her direction after a moment Leon smiled. Raising a hand he placed it on her head, "Was that so hard?"

"For me it was." 

Laughing Leon moved his hand to her chin lifting her face. "That's better. You really are..." His sentence was cut off by the music announcing the start of the welcome ceremony. Sighing Leon grabbed Diana's hand and made their way back to the canopy. 

"There they are." Ace said pointing to the two.

"Diana!" Randal called out moving over to her, he would have hugged her if it wasn't for the fact that Leon wouldn't let go of her hand.

Sensing that he wasn't welcome Randal just laughed and sat back down waving in Diana's direction. Normally Diana and Miranda would sit up top but the guys had moved their seats down with theirs so they could all sit together, though they sat in between the guys Diana on Leon's left side his hand still in hers.

"Told you!" Miranda whispered into Diana's ear making her go red.

"Sh..Shut up!" Diana mumbled her grip on his hand getting tighter out of embarrassment.

"We'll talk later, alone." Leon whispered to her with a smile.

Nodding Diana looked over at Miranda who was poking at Ace and Randal. Looking up at him she blushed and tapped her thighs. "Alright."

After the music stopped the game master appeared on the big screen in the center of the stage. "Welcome one, welcome all! I hope your flight was enjoyable. Today is a day of rest and a day to explore the island to your hearts content. Each guild house has been replicated and after my short announcement you'll all be taken there."

There was a loud applause as everyone realized they'd be spending a week in their guild house. It really was a dream come true for anyone involved in the game. The fact that everyone was here, in an environment that they knew so well in game, was a shocker in itself. 

"As I said before I have spared no expense, everything you know of the game is here on this island." With a bright grin a layout of the island appeared on the screen. "Like the game you can either walk your way around, or you can travel by your favorite coaches and mounts." 

"Mounts?" Randal questioned looking over towards the others. "How'd he get the mounts made?" 

"He said he didn't care about expenses..maybe robots?" Ace stated arms crossed

"That's the only way it could work, mechanics there's no creature close enough to try to pretend to be the mounts in the game." Leon explained lazily

Music began playing again as the creator appeared on screen again. "Enjoy your first day and night here. Tomorrow a special announcement will be made, each of you has a trunk in your guild house that only you can open, but it can only be opened after the announcement. I bid you farewell for now." 

The plaza was abuzz with noise once the announcement was over. Laughter, talking, music, and movement could be heard throughout the island. It was an amazing thing to see and hear but something didn't feel right.

"Let's go to the guild house." Miranda exclaimed jumping out of her seat. "If it's exactly like our guild house I want to lounge by the pool for a bit."

"Well let's get going. We should make sure our things are there too." Leon said standing up his hand still wrapped in Diana's.

"That's settled then. Let's head on out shouldn't take to long to walk to our guild house. He said everything was the same right? Want to take the walk together?" Randal said stretching some.

"Our first walk, let's do it!" Ace jumped up and ran to the opening of the plaza waving everyone on. 

Diana got up and began to walk out with the others but Leon pulled her back. "Actually let's head out the other way."

Panicking she looked over to Miranda for help but she was already on Randals shoulders making her way out. Turning when she noticed the other two weren't there she grinned and waved them off. "Don't stay out to late! We need to have a guild dinner!" 

"I'll bring her back safe." Leon called out waving slightly before he began walking in the opposite direction.

Diana followed slowly behind, her hand gripping his tightly as they walked through the crowd. It wasn't surprising that the two would get stares. They had a fighter and healer badge on along with their guild crest. Two of the top players in the top guild walking alone, they're lucky this wasn't the game they'd have been attacked by now.

"Where are we going?" Diana asked quietly her eyes darting around at the scenery. 

"A special place." Was all he said with a bright smile.

Diana blushed and nodded looking about everyone exploring the beginning area. She hadn't been anywhere in the beginning town in a very long time. At their level the only reason to be here was for the announcement plaza, but there was a direct teleport here so there was no reason to venture out. 

"I found this place when I started the game. Ventured here by accident with my first group." Leon explained when the came to an entrance to a cave.

"Is it safe?" Diana asked looking up at him.

"It was back then, I don't think he'd put anything dangerous in the starting area."

Pulling on her hand he pulled her into the cave and after a few moments of walking water could be heard. Once they passed through a blanket of flowers and leaves there was a cavern with an indoor pool filled by the above waterfall. Fireflies flew about giving the area a very dim natural light. It was a beautiful place untouched by anyone; it was one of the games secrets.

"I don't think anyone really knew about this place, and if they did why would it matter in an MMO? No one really plays an MMO for the scenery." 

Diana was speechless, the place was beyond beautiful her eyes darted everywhere taking in everything so she could remember the place and how to get here.

"I've never brought anyone here. I kind of just sit here and wait for you all if I'm on alone." 

"You wait for us?" Diana finally asked looking up at him. He really was good looking, and she couldn't believe that he was here – holding his hand no less.

"You guys are my friends why wouldn't I wait for you?" He asked with a laugh before letting go of her hand finally.

Diana shrugged, her fingers moving slightly when he released her hand. She smiled when she heard him say friends. She knew better than to think anything else would happen. "We should get back." She spoke softly pointing behind her to the entrance taking a few steps in that direction.

Looking to her Leon nodded making his way over to her. He frowned taking hold of her hands his thumbs rubbing her palms softly. "We can head back if you'd like"

Raising a brow Diana looked up at him before looking down at herself. She sighed at the sight she was bigger then him weight wise and about a foot shorter. "What do you want to do?" 

"Stay here like this." Releasing one of her hands he placed it atop her head. "You don't realize how amazing you are. I can tell how tense you are and I don't like that you're that way with me."

"It's obvious why I'm like this." 

"Not to me, why don't you tell me?"

Looking up at him she shook her head a bit. "You already know. Stop teasing me."

Laughing he nodded placing both of his hands on her shoulders. "Is it so wrong to want to hear it?"

Before Diana even had the chance to answer he bent down leveling his face with hers. His blue eyes locking on her hazel eyes for a moment. Startled she would have taken a step back but his grip kept her where she was. 

"Leon I..." She couldn't get the words out he was distracting her more than normal. 

"You what?"

"It doesn't bother you?"

Tilting his head in confusion he shrugged, "What bothers me?" 

"My weight." She mumbled looking down again.

Laughing softly he wrapped his arms around her tightly. "No if it did I'd be a horrible person. I know you, the real you that's what attracted me."

Raising her arms she wrapped them around him pulling him closer. "I like you." She mumbled into his chest.

Smiling he looked down at her his hand running through her short hair. "I like you too. I like you a lot Diana." Pulling her face up he did what he had wanted to for the past three years, he placed a soft kiss on her lips, keeping it sweet since she was so fragile.

Not expecting this at all she was scared by his kiss. She looked at his face for a brief moment noticing the small tears at the corner of his eyes. He wasn't lying, he really did like her. She let all her fears go her lips pushing back against his deepening the kiss. Once he felt this he pulled her close almost lifting her off the ground in excitement. 




Lost Kingdoms Ch. 02



"Is this real?" She asked after they stopped kissing her breathing was rapid as she looked up at him.

"Very real. I've wanted to tell you for so long." 

"Why didn't you?"

"Miranda said to wait for this trip."

She laughed shaking her head. "That's why she kept teasing me, she knew."

"Yeah, I didn't think you were interested in anyone."

"I wasn't, not until I met you."

He laughed running his thumb over her cheek. "Well we have all week let's make it special." 

She smiled and nodded following his lead as he took her hand. "Let's take a carriage to the guild house they'll wonder where we are." 

Nodding she gripped his hand tightly wondering how in the world someone like him could have fallen for someone like her.

Diana and Leon decided to take one of the carriages back, on their walk to one of the terminals they continued to get looks. While Diana tried to keep her cool Leon just brushed everyone off. 

"Well well." A familure sounding voice called out.

The two looked back towards the voice instantly, it was Leon who sighed first. "If it isn't Sigal."

"Reinheart so good to see you." The tall blonde man crossed his arm his badge visible on his arm.

"The little sissy healer too." A woman stepped forward, she was as tall as Miranda though with longer hair and just as good looking.

"What do you want?" Leon asked pushing Diana behind him.

"Now, now so defensive, we're all friends here." Sigal chuckled out moving towards them his hand outstretched.



Lost Kingdoms Ch. 03



"Leon?" Diana asked looking at the two in front of them. The fighter and mage of Black Horizon these were the people that she wasn't looking forward to meeting.

Sigal stood there for a moment before tossing his hands up in the air as if defeated. "I can understand that you don't really want to talk to us."

"Do you understand? I don't think you do, we're busy can you just go?" Leon stated not showing any sign of fear or weakness.

"Oh very leader like. I'd expect nothing less from you Reinheart. Hey how abouts a little game?" 

"Game?"

"Yes your guild v.s ours."

"I didn't come here for that."

"Well neither did we but I didn't expect to find you all so soon."

The two stared at each other for a moment before the carriage arrived. It was an exact replica beautifully crafted with what looked like pure white marble, and the horses were as white with golden folded wings. 

"Get in Diana." Leon pushed her forward as the door opened.

"Well, I'll tell you anyways." Sigal began while the two stepped in the carriage. "In the tournament area there are ways our guilds can battle it out. If you're not scared meet us there before the announcement we'll give everyone a show."

Leon didn't even bother answer; he just looked at the wicked smile Sigal was giving him as the carriage took off. "Lunar's Eye guild house." 

****

"He said what!?" Miranda screamed outraged that they had been challenged less then twenty-four hours into their trip.

"He wants our guilds to go at it." Leon said shrugging it off.

"Please tell me we're going to?" Ace said moving over towards where Leon had been sitting.

"That's up to you guys. We already know Diana's answer is no." Leon said looking at the quiet girl who was still moving her food around her plate.

The others looked in her direction too; it was no secret that the young healer hated fighting. Looking up she smiled half heartedly before placing her fork down. "Let's do it." 

"Wait what?" Leon asked almost choking on the soda he had been drinking.

"I said let's do it. They're underestimating us. We're the second top guild and they don't even know about my new stats." Diana added tapping the table.

"She's right. We all know they like to paralyze and other status effects, it's why they win so much. Most healers can't keep up with removing the debuffs." Randal said taking a seat next to Diana. 

"With my new staff I'll be more than able to keep up now." 

"If you're ok with it then I'm fine with it." Leon said pushing himself up from the chair.

"Let's get ready to go then!" Ace clapped running to his suitcase to grab his headphones. 

"Don't tell me you play with headphones on?" Miranda asked crossing her arms.

"One ear in for music, the other listening to you guys." He grinned making his way out the door.

The others didn't even try to argue they just followed the overly excited ranger out to the tournament area. It wasn't a long walk from the guild house and like any guild who stalked another there was Black Horizon.

"You showed up!" Sigal exclaimed clapping his hand, next to him was the tall mage who instantly glared at Miranda. 

"You wanted us do. Thank Serenity." Leon said patting Diana's head. "She was the deciding factor to us being here."

"The sissy healer wants to fight, that's new." The mage said crossing her arms. 

Miranda's hands balled into a fist as she began to charge at the other girl. Randal, being use to this kind of thing, just wrapped an arm around her waist to keep her in place. "You prick! I'll fucking end you!" 

"Calm down!" Diana called out tapping her fingers together again before Miranda sighed and nodded in her direction.

"Well let's get started then." Sigal pointed to the rows of computers that were lined up. "He set these up and they're connected to the big screen." He pointed behind him now. "Everyone can see it'll be a great clash don't you think?" 

The others looked around seeing that Dark Horizon was already set up and ready to play. It looks like they had been planning this from the beginning. "Well I guess this is what we're here for. Everyone get ready." Leon called out reaching for Diana's hand and pulling her along.

Both guilds took their seats, each member sitting across from their respective class. It wasn't long before the stadium around the tournament area began to fill up with people getting ready to watch the duel. Once all members were logged in and gathered the computers froze and confusion was seen on all the players and audience. 

"I see we have our first duel!" The game master's voice rang out from the speakers his face appearing on the big screen in the middle of the coliseum. "I believe it is only fair that this be broadcast around the island! The top two guilds duking it out how exciting, you really waste no time do you?"

The ten of them just stared at the screen, not really knowing how to answer. This was a pissing contest and it was known to all. The game master just laughed though nodding his head and waving his arms at them while the seats began to fill up now after the very loud announcement. 

"I like your spark! For that I'll let you duke it out and I'll show the entire world your duel!" With an audible click of a few buttons he grinned waving into more cameras around him. The island was being shown on all major networks so watching what was going on was a big deal for this kind of event. "I've even been so inspired by your duel that after it's over I'll give my special announcement!"

The crowd cheered louder then they had when the saw the top two guilds begin to gear up for a pvp match. Leon just looked to his fellow guild members and smiled. "We can do this, don't let it bother you we always have an audience when we do these things."

"It's rare when we do." Ace said popping one of his earphones in before putting his headset on.

"Guess we'll finally settle things." Miranda said punching Ace's arm because of the headphones. The two began bantering and poking at each other until he gave in and pulled the ear bud out. 

"We'll be fine, just protect Diana. Once they figure out she can remove their debuffs with just healing she'll be their first target." Leon commanded as their avatars began to appear in the stadium in game.

"I'll be fine; I'll stay near Ace and Miranda." Diana squeaked out with a smile to show she was alright. 

Nodding Leon looked towards the other guild; this wasn't the first time they would duel like this. This time was different though; Diana had a staff that would keep them able to move unless they hit her first. 

Loud clapping could be heard from the game master and the people around them. Everyone looked on as the count down seemed to take forever. 3..2..1 BEGIN. Of course Black Horizon attacked first their ranger sending out an arrow that would paralyze on hit. 

Randal was to quick though, raising his shield the arrow bounced off effortlessly. "They're trying to take me out." 

Miranda was already tossing her own spells out fireballs and lightning strikes were tossed at amazing speeds. "Just don't let anything from Sigal or that annoying archer hit you and you'll be fine." 

Ace was shooting his own arrows at the fighter and archer from Black Horizon as he laughed. "They won't hit our speed is better than theirs. Look they seemed confused." 

Leon was behind Randal charging up his sprint, sword drawn over his shoulder before he pointed at the tank. "Go after the tank without him the others fall quickly. From what I can remember his elemental stats weren't so great."

Nodding Miranda focused her attention on Leon's sword. "Let me know what you need." 

Diana waved her staff slowly healing Randal for the entire amount of damage he took from the arrows. "Ice, it'll slow him down if he's not immune to it!" 

Miranda nodded sending out a blast of ice towards Leon's sword, as she did so a fireball hit her in the side and she was sent flying backwards with her avatar's scream being heard. The real Miranda pounded her fist on the side of her desk her eyes moving above the keyboard to glare at the Dark Horizon wizard. 

"Don't mind! You're not dead get back to it!" Ace said shooting another volley in the direction of the tank and fighter.

Diana's avatar moved quickly a healing spell leaving the staff to heal most of the damage Miranda had taken. Standing still she chanted again before a heal over time was cast on the mage. "You'll be fine now don't let it get to you." 

Leon was already charging his sword leaving a trail of frost behind him as he ran. Randal was sprinting next to him zig zagging here and there to block what he could without losing all of his HP. The back up the two received was well timed lightning bolts raining from the sky along with entanglement arrows that seemed to have the Dark Horizons archer struggling to escape. 

"Get up you moron!" The mage's annoyed voice could be heard from the other side.

"It's an entanglement, Sierra it doesn't work that way!" The archer called back as he pounded on the keys to get his avatar free faster.

Seeing the two panic Randal and Leon made their move, Leon was faster than Randal of course so he charged forward first. His speed stat was incredible, his avatar moved from his spot behind the tank to in front of the enemy tank in the blink of an eye. With a wide grin Leon's sword came down quickly aiming for the tanks shield arm to break the defense. After a moment there was a loud clang and Sigal was standing there blocking Leon's attack.

"You didn't think I'd let you do what you wanted did you?" He asked with a wide grin.

"No I expected as much, but I know your stats better than my own." With a grin the ice from Leon's sword began to transfer over into Sigals.

"You don't like the elements; none of you but that little mage of yours has protection against them. We're taking a page out of your book." 

Once the ice was completely gone from Leon's sword it began to travel down Sigals. It was like Leon said, they were not equipped to deal with their own warfare. Sigals eyes widened in surprise as the ice moved down the hilt to his hands the slowing effect beginning to make itself known.

"Ace now!" Randal called out before he rammed his shield into the other tanks to keep him away from Leon.

Diana was still towards the back of the line, tossing out heals when she saw someone take the slightest bit of damage. When she heard Leon's call to Ace she worked faster then he did. Placing her staff outward she chanted softly before waving her wand in his direction. "You've got extra strength for thirty seconds! Shoot! Shoot now!"

Ace nodded pulling his bowstring back quickly, like in any other MMO his arrows appeared the moment he did so. Closing one eye he focused on Sigal allowing his crosshairs to highlight the avatar before moving letting the crosshairs highlight on the tank who was still having a shoving match with Randal. "Shooting!" He called out before a volley of arrows was let loose on the two highlighted avatars. 

The extra buff proved useful as Sigals hp dropped to zero because of Leon's earlier attack. Sigals yells could be heard from behind his screen as he yelled at their healer for not having enough power in his heals. "Did you see that twits heals!" He called out slamming his mouse down and pushing himself away from the desk. "One of her heals are like two of yours what the hell!" 

"I was protecting the tank like you told me to!" The healer called out his eyes leaving the screen for a moment only for his ears to be met with his avatars death scream. "What the fuck!" 

Miranda grinned her avatar juggling a few fireballs that she was chucking towards the other group as they fought amongst themselves. "Didn't know we'd get a show within a show." She called out sarcastically before tossing more fireballs at the three remaining members of Dark Horizon. 

"No healer means easy win. Go in I'll cover you." Randal called out holding his shield up for Leon blocking arrows the archer, who had finally gotten free of Ace's entanglement, was not shooting at them. 

Randal was not paying attention to what was going on as he was blocking fireballs and arrows from hitting Leon who was the closest to the remaining three of Dark Horizon. After a few blocks one of the arrows slipped through hitting Randal in his legs. 

"Got him!" The archer called out once the paralyze symbol began to show over Randal's head. 

"Leon keep going on take that little shit head out!" Ace called moving towards Randal's side shooting as he ran.

Diana ran up looking over her friends with a sigh. She could tell their avatars were beat up from the fight, and even their real faces were twisted and unhappy looking as they tried to win. Slamming her staff on the ground she called forth a healing circle for the four of them. Looking towards her they all smiled, there was little Diana making sure they were ok, and making sure Randal wasn't down for long. Once she saw everyone's HP bars were back to full, all but Leon's who was busy dodging arrows in an attempt to take out the archer before he could drink a potion.

Taking a step forward Miranda shot webs from her finger tips behind where the archer was running hoping he would slip. "He's a quick little fucker isn't he?" She asked slamming her hand on the desk again when he hopped over it. 

"We're all quick." Ace grinned charging up another entangle shot to help Leon out.

Diana ran forward once she noticed Randal get his gear back up once the paralysis wore off from the heal. "Leon be careful!" She called out targeting him with a smaller heal since he was so far away. 

"What the hell the tank is already up?" Sigal said standing behind the archer's computer.

"She's got that damn staff!" Sierra called out tossing a fireball at Diana who was wide open. "Kill that fucking sissy!" 

Once the heal was off Diana looked towards the direction of the fireball as it hit her. With her avatars scream she fell backwards her HP bar falling dangerously low. 

"Shit Diana!" Randal called out throwing himself over her body to block the next barrage of fireballs heading her way. "Heal yourself quick." 

"Did you get her?" The archer called out towards Sierra who stopped attacking to look towards Randal.

"I can't see! He's in the way." Sierra said trying to catch a glimpse of Diana.

"You should pay more attention to the rest of us." Leon said as he brought his sword down in rapid strikes until the archers HP bar fell to zero.

Standing up Randal held Diana steady as she healed herself. The group looked at the mage before each got into their own fighting positions. "Do you want to keep going?" 

Looking up towards Sigal she shook her head and held her hands up in defeat. After a moment a congratulations sign appeared with the Lunar's Eye banner under it. The crowd went wild, cheering, screaming, and applause could be heard as they sat staring at the screen. 

"Well done! Well done!" The game master could be heard now, only he was there in person. Standing atop a large podium his gloved hands clapping loudly. "I knew this would be an amazing idea! Don't you see how excited everyone is.?" He asked waving his hands moving to show the screens where the battle had been broadcast on live television. 

"Now I'd love to have both of the guilds up here with me come, come!" He waved them on laughing to himself at their confused faces. Once they had all walked up the stairs to where he was he tapped the ground with his foot, once he did so small chest began to pop up in front of everyone. Once everyone on the island had a chest in front of them he smiled brightly. 

"Now for my announcement! In honor of these players here." He waved to the ten people around him, his hand stopping in front of Diana for a moment as he poked her forehead leaving a small mark. "This island is more than it seems. This island is real, and I know what you're thinking! Of course it's real you created it." 

He waved his fingers with a tsk tsk sound leaving his lips. "No, no. I did not create this island, I was born here. Born here you say? How could he have been born here? Well I'll tell you; this island was a prospering country where magic thrived, until one day everything changed." He stopped tilting his head with a slight grin before pointing to the chest which now popped open. Once they were open the players began pulling out a small orb that was placed inside. It looked like the orb they had received with the information to get on the plane here. After a few moments and confused looks a soft glow could be seen, the orbs popped open and a blue mist began to form around each individual person.

"So here is my gift to you! My thanks for playing my game, my thanks for coming to this island to repopulate and gather its magic force again. From here on out you are not players in a game, you are inhabitants of the Lost Kingdoms. This game is real, very real all of the stats you have in game will have been transferred over to you. The mist was forming during your trials and tribulations in game and now you are your avatars."

"What the hell is that suppose to mean!?" The Archer from Dark Horizon asked stepping forward.

"This can't be real! You're telling me if I just say one of the spells it'll happen? Bullshit." Sierra called out waving her hand slightly murmuring the fireball spell her fingers pointing at the game master. When nothing happened after a second she laughed. "See I told you this was bull-"She screamed loudly as she was blasted backwards from the force of the fireball that came from her palm, the guild master of course was unfazed. 

"This is very real so take care or it might be a very hard trip for you." Clapping his hands he jumped off the platform one of the horses that drove the carriages came forward catching him before he fell. "One more thing! There is no leaving the island the force field that has kept this place hidden will kill anyone who possesses magic if they try to pass through." With another large grin and loud laugh the game master took off towards the tower that was suppose to be the end game in the final expansion.

There was a strange silence all around the island after the game master made his announcement. Even the two guilds who were so lively just moments before had nothing to say. Little Diana had her hand on her forehead where the game master had touched her. The spot was burning and she didn't understand why. Looking to the others she saw Miranda and Ace's hands locked together, their fingers intertwined as he tried to keep her calm. Randal was looking at her, his expression hard to read until he sighed and looked away. Finally she looked towards Leon who always seemed to have an answer. Once he noticed her looking at him he moved to her taking her hand and shaking his head. There was no answer for this one; there was no way of getting out of this, not alive anyways. Small movements could be heard as people began to stand from their seats. Dark Horizon had helped Sierra up and checked her over for injuries seeing none they looked over towards Lunar's Eye. Diana knew something was terribly wrong when even Sigal looked at Leon and just shook his head completely beaten at this point in time. It was as if time stood still for that brief moment until everyone was brought back into reality with the loud scream of a woman in the stands. 

Chapter 3 end.



Lost Kingdoms Ch. 04



The screaming woman brought everyone back into reality. Soon the stands were filled with two types of people, panicked people and people who seemed to trying to get a grasp of what was going on. Running, screaming and all around chaos could be seen and heard throughout the island. While many didn't believe what was going on, how could one prove the game master was lying? If he was telling the truth and someone tried to leave the island they would be dead, if no one tried to leave they were still trapped here.

Leon looked about the chaos and shook his head finally bringing himself back to reality. "Get to the guild house. We'll be safe there." 

Miranda stood next to Diana staring at Sierra intently. The girl had cast a fireball at the game master, one of the spells Miranda knew well. One look into her eyes and you could see her fear. Ace smiled walking up to her slowly taking her hand in his. "Come on babe, let's go." 

She looked at him and nodded her hand gripping his tightly. It was a strange moment between them, while they always picked and prodded at one another it was always known how they felt. It was like this was the defining moment in their relationship, and that simple grasp of her hand showed that Ace wasn't going to let her go. 

Randal looked on towards Diana, he placed a hand on her head and pushed her forward. "Go on, catch up to Leon." 

Diana looked up at him with tears in her eyes. She really was terrified and Leon had started walking ahead of them to lead the way back to the guild house. Seeing her that way he sighed taking her hand like Ace had done to Miranda. "Come on I'll lead you to him." 

Walking along Diana stayed close to Randal. He couldn't help but chuckle at how much smaller she was compared to him. He stood at six foot two and poor little Diana was at least a foot shorter than him. It was strange that Leon was walking ahead without even looking for Diana, this seemed to piss Randal off more then he thought it would.

There were people standing around almost everywhere at the starting area either trying to get ahold of their new found powers, or people staring off at the barrier that now held them hostage. It was a mess and the walk to the guild house was filled with either screams or laughter. 

Finally getting ahold of herself Diana looked up towards Randal with a smile. Her hand gripped his tighter before she spoke out quietly. "Thank you. I don't think I would have been able to move from there." 

Literally looking down at her he smiled, his cheeks getting slightly flushed as he spoke. "Don't worry about it that's what friends are for." 

The two walked together keeping up with Leon and the others. No one said a word they just marched on until the guild house could be seen. Once he realized they were almost there Leon turned his head back to see the others. Noticing how close Randal and Diana were he frowned. "Diana are you alright?" 

Nodding she waved in his direction, her hand not leaving Randal's until Randal patted her head and let go.

"I didn't want her to get lost, you know how she is." He said pushing Diana in Leon's direction.

He smiled and nodded taking her hand in his again. "Yeah sorry... I wasn't thinking I shouldn't have left you alone."

Pointing to Randal, Diana tilted her head confused. "I wasn't alone. I knew you'd be worried and want to get us here as soon as you could. Randal made sure I was ok." 

The two men stood there smiles on their faces for Diana but their eyes told another story. Now was not a time for petty jealousy games though, now was the time to figure out exactly what was going to happen. "Diana get inside with Miranda make sure she's alright."

Diana nodded running over to where Ace and Miranda were. She still looked shocked as she smiled at the young healer. Leon and Randal couldn't hear what was being said but when Diana finally took Miranda inside they called Ace over.

"You left her." Randal stated softly.

"I didn't leave her." Leon retorted his fist clenching tightly.

"You did, you walked away from her and left her standing like a deer looking into headlights!" 

"I wanted to get everyone here as fast as I could!" 

"So you fucking left her?!" 

"Woah, woah calm down what's going on?" Ace called out stepping in between the two. 

Tension was rising between them and they both looked as though a fight could break out at the drop of a dime.

"Doesn't matter." Randal said placing his hands in his pockets and turning his back on Leon.

"Get this placed locked up. We don't know who will come try to take us out." Leon suggested as he made his way towards the guild house. "I'll make sure the wizard tower is set to attack anyone who gets to close. Miranda isn't in a state to mess with it right now." 

Ace just looked from one to the other, only he knew how Randal really felt about Diana and with everything that was going on right now tension would surely build up. "I'll take care of it; you go ahead and check on the girls." He patted Randal on the back and smiled darting to set up the traps that protected the guild. 

****

Miranda and Diana sat together at the dining room table. Both clutching a cup of hot coco to try and calm down. When Leon walked in Diana smiled brightly at him and waved. "She's doing better. Finally talked about what we're gonna do." 

"What do you guys want to do?" Leon asked sitting down across from them.

Randal came in next moving over to where the others were he took a seat next to Miranda and sighed. "This is some bullshit.." 

"Who are you telling?" Miranda laughed tossing a small fireball into the air and catching it. "It's all true.. I can do this and I shouldn't be able to do this." 

The three looked at her with a mix of emotions; there was sadness and happiness in their eyes. This was every gamer's dream, to be able to be your character. It was also every gamer's nightmare, to be dragged into a world that would cost you your life.

Ace walked in now shaking his head as he moved over to Miranda. "Seems we're already being targeted." He turned to the side to show the slash at his side.

"What happened?" Leon asked pulling Ace's shirt up a bit to show the wound.

"I was setting up the traps and an archer got me. I don't know from what guild, but it looked like they were testing their bows out." Ace remaining calm as he smiled towards Miranda, whose eyes were now tearful as she looked at him.

"Let me try now." Diana said getting up from her seat, walking over to the other side of the table she knelt down next to Ace. Holding her hands over his wound she pressed her palms so it. Closing her eyes Diana chanted softly it was a simple healing spell but she wanted to know if her powers would work like the others.

"It's warm." Ace said looking down at his side where her hands were.

Once Diana was finished she pulled her hands away and looked at the wound. There was nothing there, not even a scar Ace's skin was back to normal.

"Holy shit." Randal whispered as he saw what had happened. "It's not a dream." 

"No not a dream, that means we're going to have to be extremely careful." Leon said moving over to Diana to help her up.

"Hey your forehead!" Miranda called out pointing to Diana.

"What? What about it." Diana's hands quickly went to her forehead moving her fingers over it to see what was going on.

"There's a mark there." Leon said softly as he poked at it with his index finger.

"Isn't that were the game master touched her?" Randal asked getting up and moving over to where his shields were.

"What does it mean?" She asked her eyes darting upwards to try and see. 

Before anything else could be said they all started laughing. Despite everything that was happening Diana trying to see her forehead without a mirror brought them all smiles. Puffing out her cheeks she couldn't help but laugh too shaking her head she placed a hand on her forehead.

"I don't know what it means, but let's keep an eye on it." Leon said poking at her hand.

"I'll go set up the wizard tower.. We might be in for one hell of a night." Miranda said shaking her head as she headed up her tower.

"I'll keep an eye on her." Ace waved the others off as he followed her. 

The three couldn't help but smile, Diana waved back at him before looking over towards Randal. She tilted her head as she watched him; he was poking at all the shields near the blacksmith where he usually set his avatar to sleep.

Leon made no notice of Randal as he patted Diana on the head. "You must be tired.. I know I am." He laughed looking over to his own tower. "You want to crash with me tonight?"

Blushing Diana waved her hands in front of herself in a panic. "No! Not at all!" She called out in a slight stutter.

Leon laughed but the hurt could be seen in his eyes. "I was just asking. I know how scared you must be." 

Nodding her cheeks stayed flushed as she shook her head. "I know that I'll be safe with you all.. I'd actually like to see my own tower." 

"Alright, but get some rest and if you're not comfortable come to my tower ok?" Leon asked softly placing a hand under her chin. He didn't wait for her answer he just lifted her head slightly leaned down and pressed his lips softly against hers. 

After their brief kiss Diana nodded rapidly her cheeks redder then before as she watched him climb the stairs to his tower. Coming to her senses she turned towards Randal who averted his gaze when she looked into his eyes. 

"Are you alright?" She asked moving over to him, her fingertips running along one of the shields.

"Fine." He mumbled still not looking at her.

"You don't seem fine."

"I am."

"Liar.." Diana mumbled as she looked up at him with a soft smile. 

Randal couldn't help but smile and look at her. He patted her head and plopped himself down where he normally slept in game. "I'm fine really don't worry about it." 

Rocking back and forth she pointed to her tower. "Why didn't you ever get a tower?" 

Shrugging he spoke softly. "Thought it was a waste of gold, guess I regret that now." 

"I have two rooms in my tower, there's a couch up there want to stay there?" 

Shaking his head Randal closed his eyes. "Naw, I'll stay here, go get some rest." 

Nodding Diana made her way to her tower her footsteps slower than normal. "Good night Randal." 

"Diana.." Randal called out sitting up slightly. His eyes locked on hers a moment before he sighed and shook his head." Never mind, good night." 

Tilting her head a moment Diana nodded slightly and waved her hand. "If you change your mind just knock." With those final words she ran up the stairs to her tower looking at the all to familure design of it all. Looking out the window she could hear the chaos that was still going around. There was laughter and screaming and she could only hope that no one would be hurt.

****

Diana woke with a start at the sound of banging on her door. It was Miranda who was calling out to her. "Get up! Get up now!" 

Pushing herself from the bed Diana threw a robe over her pajamas and opened the door. Miranda was standing there wide eyed as she grabbed her friend's hand. "Come look, it's bad." 

Pulling Diana along the two made their way downstairs. The boys were sitting around the guild table coffee in hand as the little orb they used as a "Tv" displayed what was going on around the island. 

Looking up Randal smiled at Diana who scooted a cup of hot coco over to her. "I was the first one up. I remember you said you didn't really like coffee." 

Diana smiled gladly taking the cup and sitting down next to Miranda before turning her attention to the orb. It was like looked like your normal every day news there was a few of the familurenpcs going on about what the weather would be like, and what new items would be going on sale. The only thing different from its normal broadcast was the announcement of how many people had died throughout the night. The game master appeared on screen explaining one of the lower level guilds did not heed is warning about the edge of the island and the almost the entire guild was wiped out instantly.

"Now I don't want you all to see me as some sort of monster." The guild master exclaimed as he stood near the rows of covered up bodies around the beach area they had tried to leave from. "Each person will be returned to their families and their funerals will be paid in full by me of course." 

"That's oddly kind of him." Ace mumbled out shaking his head.

"Kind or sick?" Miranda asked slamming her fist onto the table. "What does he want us to love him now? Oh I'll hold you prisoner but I'll make sure your funeral is covered? What a load of crap!" 

They all stayed quiet, no one really knew what to say. Diana gripped her cup tightly seeing that this had become more then a game was really sinking in. Leon looked towards her with a smile, getting up he patted her head and lifted her chin. "Don't worry we'll stay safe. There are a few things I want to talk to everyone about." 

Everyone's attention was suddenly on Leon. When he said he wanted to talk to all of them he had really been thinking of things. He was the leader for a reason. Sighing Randal turned the crystal off and leaned back. "So what are you thinking?" 

Pulling Diana up Leon sat down in her seat and pulled her onto his lap wrapping his arms around her tightly. Her face was a bright red as she tried to escape he pulled her closer letting his chin rest on her shoulder. "I think we'll need to start accepting new members." 

At his words Diana became still, it has been three years and never had he mentioned new members. "What do you mean?" 

"I mean what I said; I think new members would be a good idea. Look at this place, it's already begun people are scared and the lower level guilds will need help." Leon explained sitting back some and giving Diana room to move.

"Not only that but we'll be a huge target. We're strong but if we get over run we'll be heading home in those bags." Randal stated matter of factly. 

"It wouldn't be a bad idea, let's see how things go." Ace said patting Miranda on the back which led to the two poking at each other like normal.

"It's settled then. I want to go to the guild that those people were from. If there is anyone left there I'd like to take them in." Leon stated looking them all over. "If you agree of course." 

Diana nodded getting up and moving back to her tower. "Let's get to it then. I think I saw robes up there so I think he's even provided us with our class clothing." 

Miranda stood up and walked over to Diana pushing her up the stairs. "We're going to get ready you guys do the same, and look into expanding the guild hall we're going to need it if we're doing this." With a grin the two girls disappeared into the bath house to get ready leaving the boys to finish talking things out.

The three remaining members of Lunar's eye sat around for a moment before Ace finally spoke up. "We'll have to think of a way to get things running." 

"The five of us will be in charge that's how I want it run." Leon said crossing his arms with a soft sigh.

"Everything gets discussed between us then? Maybe a way to have a vote on things the new members want to discuss?" Ace suggested to the two.

"Sounds good, that way we're not running things without taking all members into account." Randal said standing from his seat and going to his blacksmith. "I'll go shop around, try to get a new barracks to add on. If it's like the game we'll be able to have repairs done in a few days." 

Nodding Leon stood up and made his way to his own tower. "Well with that settled lets all get dressed and ready to go out. I don't want any of us walking around alone. We don't know if people will attack us or not." 

"Alright let's get ready to go!" Ace called out moving to his chest, like Diana said there was gear in there fit just for him. "They look just like in game." 

****

After an hour of everyone getting ready they all gathered in front of the guild house all decked out in their gear. It was strange to see everyone like this, Randal who was already built fit into silver and black armor that looked like he would fall over wearing. The most notable thing about Randal's armor was the sword and shield on his back. While Randal spent most of his time blocking his shield was his pride and joy. Ace was dressed in simple cloth the same color of Randal's armor since they both always shared a color scheme. The bow wrapped around his arm was glowing lightly showing that it had been enchanted to it's full potential. Leon's armor wasn't as heavy as Randal's and only covered his upper body; the lower part of his body was covered in black leather pants and boots. Leon's classis double swords were criss crossed on his back the hilts of each glowing like Ace's bow. Each of them looked horrified at the way they looked and Miranda couldn't help but laugh when she saw them.

"What the hell?" She asked her arms wrapped around her stomach as she tried to stop the laughter. 

Diana on the other hand poked at her friend's side to make her stop laughing. "They look fine!" She called out smiling to the three. 

The girls got the better end of the clothing deal. Miranda was wearing black and red wizard robs that clung to her body perfectly, the side of her stomach could be seen and the slit in her robes came above her thigh to reveal gartered thigh high stockings and matching heeled ankle boots. Miranda's wand was strapped to her leg the black wand with red flames up and down the side could easily be seen.

"Look at you!" Ace grinned pointing up and down at Miranda, who in turned twirled and struck a pose.

Diana too was wearing robes except hers covered her completely. The robes were white and baby blue and hung off her shoulders slightly. The staff that had won them the fight was being clutched in her hand as she used it almost like a walking stick. Diana was small but she was well endowed and she kept pulling the robes up which made Miranda laugh.

"You look fine, nothing wrong with showing a little chest, right Leon?" Miranda called out with a huge grin making her way over to Ace.

Coughing Leon pointed to the gate "Well... Chests aside let's get going. Let's split up here. You three can go get the new expansions for the guild house. Diana and I will go talk to the survivors of the guild." 

Nodding Diana and Leon went to the coach station to get a ride to the lower level guild hall. The other three decided to take the walk to the market. With a few waves goodbye the first mission of Lunar's Eye began.

****

Randal walked ahead of his two friends his eyes darting around every direction. For some reason he didn't trust anyone that passed them by. For the most part no one seemed to want to bother them. They had a few people smile and point in their direction, mumbling about who they were, but other than that they walked to the safe zone of the marketplace unharmed.

Miranda crossed her arms as she looked around; it was just like the game crowded and lively. She smiled looking at the two before pointing to the vendor that sold extra rooms and houses. "Let's start there. Diana gave us some money so we should be able to get something good."

"She never buys anything does she?" Ace laughed shaking his head slightly.

"You know her does doesn't spend on little things, when she got the tower I was shocked." Miranda admitted opening the door to the shop.

Twins were instantly at the middle of the room bowing with bright smiles. "Welcome! Please feel free to ask any questions."

The NPC's even felt real though they really weren't NPC's now. They were actual living beings that held as much value as any player brought here. Randal smiled at them before looking at the extra sleeping quarters for the guild. "We'll need maybe one of these for now and a bigger dining area." He glided through the pages of the extra buildings thoughtfully.




Lost Kingdoms Ch. 04



"Extra bathing area as well." Ace pointed out in one of the other sections. "This is going to be pricy." 

"We've got it, plus we'll get back to our runs once we get everything settled." Miranda said opening a trade menu with Randal.

It was strange flipping through the menu of the game in reality. It looked like a simple book but it held everything you needed. Extra gear, gold, loot, and most importantly it's how someone communicated with anyone. With a few "clicks" of the book Miranda transferred over the remaining gold she had. "That should do it. Let's check out." 

Nodding Randal moved over to the twins showing them where the guild house was on the world map and where he wanted the new additions to it. He then added another tower, a smaller one so that he'd have his own space.

"Finally huh? Why the small one?" Ace asked pointing to the smaller tower.

"It has a blacksmith underneath." Randal pointed that out as a hologram of the building came into view. "I can move all my stuff down there and it'll open up the grand hall for more tables and such. I'll be able to have a bed and a few things above the blacksmith." 

Once the transaction was made they looked over how the guild hall would look after the renovations. There was now a great door from the back that lead into smaller rooms for new guild members. Total one hundred new members could fit comfortable and still have a sense of privacy, in the two floored quarters. The new bathing areas were added at the end of each quarter one for downstairs and one for upstairs. Along with individual bathroom stalls and shower stalls there was a bathhouse for relaxation. The three smiled and nodded agreeing the smaller things could possibly be taken from the old guild house along with a persons personal belongings. 

The renovations had already started, the twins bowed as the builder NPC's made their way to the guild hall. All in all everything would take two days since they paid the extra for the faster builders. "Let's head back, we'll get more table, chairs, and kitchen wear when we figure out exactly how many we'll be getting." Miranda said wrapping her fingers around Aces and making her way out of the building. Pointing at a few other stores Miranda suggested they checked on the new items incase anything would help their stats. Smiling the three walked around the marketplace to give Leon and Diana a little while to talk to the lower level guilds.

****

Leon and Diana traveled by coach to the edge of the starting area. It was a place many of the smaller guilds made home because it was cheaper to rent land out here. Looking about the found the Fireflies guild house. Patting Diana on the head he made his way to the wooden doors his fist making a rather echo when he knocked. The two stared at the door for a moment before it creaked open and a small boy looked out through the crack. 

"Who are you?" He asked his voice shaking slightly.

"My name is Reinheart, I'm apart of the Lunar's Eye guild house. I've brought with me Serenity our healer." He pointed to Diana who offered a bright smile. "We came to check on the survivors and offer you a new home." 

The boys eyes went wide and tears began to slip down his cheeks before he opened the door completely. "There's a few of us left, but the leader of our guild was killed with the others." 

Diana and Leon looked into the great hall of the small guild house. The few remaining members were sitting around the table heads in their hands. Smiling Leon patted the boys head and made his way inside.

"Hello all." He said in his loudest voice which echoed off the walls. Once everyone had looked up towards him he offered a kind smile. "I am Reinheart."

"We know who you are." A tall woman who had been standing near the wall spoke. She was draped in wizards robes and had tears streaming down her face. "What the hell does the leader of one of the strongest guilds want with us?" 

Diana shook her head and finally spoke up, her hands gripping her staff tightly as she spoke. "We want to help.. We know how hard things for you all are right now." Her words stopped when Leon placed a hand on her head.

"We're offering a home, if you'd like to join us in Lunar's eye. Every guild is special, and each person has their reasons for joining a certain guild." Leon spoke with a strong will and a kind heart hoping to reach out to the remaining members of Firefly. "We want to make sure that no one else suffers. We're already adding onto our guild and everyone is welcome if the wish to join. We may be considered one of the strongest guilds but this is no longer a game. This is a matter of life and death and I believe that we cannot win without each other. What kind of leader would I be, if I didn't try to help those in need?"

The few members of the guild looked over Leon as he spoke. They nodded a few times at his speech and then looked at the two higher level players in front of them. "You'll help us?" One of the older looking members asked standing up. "My son was the leader of this guild. He didn't believe the game master, and now he's gone." 

The mage who spoke earlier walked up to him wrapping her arms around him. "They played together since his son lived with his mother. This was their way of spending time together." She looked up towards Leon a slender finger pointing to him. "If you say you'll take us in then we'll go. We won't make it here we've already been targeted and I don't think we'll survive another attack." 

"Then let's get going, gather what you want we've already started construction on a larger guild hall. If you have any friends or family in other guilds that need help we're more then willing to take them in." Leon stated matter of factly before turning and leaving the guild hall. "We'll wait outside." 

Diana followed him out smiling at the now happy faces of the people they came to help. Looking up at him she placed her staff on the holder on her back. "You did a good thing." 

"Think so?" 

"Yup, we'll be able to help refine their skills and level them up to be strong on their own." 

Leon grinned pulling her to him in a tight embrace. "I couldn't do it without you." 

"Yes you could." She laughed looking into his eyes before they heard a cough behind them.

The mage was standing there her arms crossed under her breast and with a tilt of her head. "I wanted to say thank you. We'll be ready shortly." 

Leon and Diana nodded standing slightly apart since she appeared.

"What made you do this?" She asked softly.

"I don't like seeing stronger people gang up on weaker people. Most of these players aren't hardcore gamers like we are. This horrid experience isn't fair to them." Leon answered coolly crossing his arms like she did.

"I'm Feylinn, one of the founding members of this guild. I think I'm on par with your Black Widow, if not just slightly weaker." She smiled walking up to Leon and offering her hand.

"Well it's a pleasure to meet you." Taking her hand he shook it firmly a smile on her face before she pulled into him.

"I think we'll be great friends." With a grin she stood on her toes kissing his cheek.

Looking to her Diana blinked a few times before looking up at the blushing Leon. With a cough Diana shook her head and made her way over to the coach stop. "I'll be going on ahead." 

"Ahead?" Leon asked slightly confused before he ran up to her. "I don't want us to be split up." 

"I'll be fine it's a straight shot from here to the guild." Reaching into her pocket she placed a handkerchief against his cheek. "You've got lipstick there; maybe you should correct other women when they kiss you." Stepping into the coach Diana slammed the door shut before he could even try to make an excuse. 

Leon watched the coach quietly his hand holding the handkerchief where she had pretty much slapped him. Looking back towards Feylinn he offered a soft smile wiping the lipstick away.

"Did I do something wrong?" She asked pointing a finger at her lip with a confused look on her face.

"No, no it's fine. She's just making sure they started construction." Leon answered as he waved towards the new members who began to walk out towards them. "Everything is fine, let's get going."

****

Diana made it back first, laughter could be heard from the other three who were back. Passing through the gates a small bell went off announcing her arrival. Miranda was there first a wine glass in her hand.

"Diana! You're back." She called out running to her and pointing to the construction that was going on. "It'll be ready soon, we've moved everything from the great hall for cots until it's done." 

Ace and Randal came next waving her to come see. She put a smile on her face so she wouldn't cause them worry. "Looks like it'll be done soon?" 

"Yeah two days max." Randal said patting her head. "You ok? Where's Leon?" 

"He'll be here shortly I was tired so I decided to come back." Stretching some she pointed to her tower. "I'm gonna go lay down for a bit. I think the shock of everything has caught up to me." 

Nodding the others waved her off, Randal though stared at her in confusion. The bell went off a few times and they turned to see Leon walking down the road with a tall young woman. The woman didn't seem to be shy; she was laughing and patting Leon's shoulder as if they had known each other forever. Leon looked quite at home with the girl, he was laughing loudly and patting her head every once in awhile. 

"So that's what happened." Randal mumbled and shook his head. Looking up to Diana's tower he sighed crossing his arms. 

Ace and Miranda saw this too, their eyes went to Randal almost instantly. "This might be bad."

Leon came up to them pushing Feylinn in front of him. "We've got ten new members."

"One you seem to be extremely happy about." Randal quipped before he turned his back on them. "I'm going to check on Diana." 

Leon didn't bother responding, he just pointed to the hall and began to explain what would happen while the construction would be happening. Ace and Miranda helped the others get their things into the great hall and everyone set up with a cot and some hot food while they were getting to know each other. 

Feylinn stayed close to Leon the entire time, the two talked like old friends. Leon kept looking over towards Diana's tower but decided not to pry just yet.

****

Randal knocked on the tower door, waiting for an answer. After a few minutes she spoke softly. "I know you're in there. Don't pretend to sleep let me in." 

"It's open." A small voice finally called out.

Stepping into the room Randal sighed, there was little Diana. Sitting on the ledge of her window knees pulled up to her chest, tears in her eyes.

"Oh come on now. I can't handle you when you cry."

Laughing Diana wiped her tears and looked at him. "Sorry."

"Don't be, you have nothing to be sorry for." 

"I don't know why I got so mad. They're not doing anything." 

Randal shrugged plopping himself on the other side of the window sill. "No they're not. He's to nice for his own good. I don't even think he knows he's doing it."

Diana nodded shrugging just as he did. "I'll be ok, just hard after what he said and everything that's happened." 

"I'm here for you ok? Don't hold anything back." 

Nodding Diana smiled patting his leg before she finally got up. "Now's not the time to be gloomy we have new friends to welcome."

Randal couldn't help but laugh standing up he placed his hands on his hips and bowed slightly. "Then by all means Serenity let's go greet them." 

Laughing again she smiled clasping her hands in front of her legs with a happy nod. "Lets." 

The two made their way out to the great hall waving at the new comers as they passed. Diana was happy to see so many of the sad faces happy and laughing as they ate together with the others. Her eyes glimpsed Leon and Feylinn who were still sitting in the corner together talking. Looking up to Randal she held onto his shirt for support. 

Looking up Leon noticed Diana standing next to Randal her hand gripping his shirt in particular. Looking to her he tilted his head and pointed to his tower with a slight nod of his head he stood up. "I've got a few things to attend to. I'll talk to you later."

"Oh? We were just getting to know each other though." Feylinn pouted visibly upset he was leaving. 

"Yeah I'll be back later." He waved at her and made his way to his tower. His eyes stayed on Diana as he did so hoping she'd follow.

Noticing him Diana nodded and let go of Randal. "I'm going to go talk to him." 

Randal nodded and made his way over to Feylinn as Diana followed Leon up to his tower.

Once Diana was out of sight Randal looked towards Feylinn and spoke softly. "I don't know what your game is, but those two have a history. Don't get in the way." 

Feylinn licked her lips clean of the pie she had been munching on before laughing at Randal. "Whatever do you mean?"

"I mean don't try to get in their way." Randal walked away waving over to Miranda and Ace who had watched the exchange without hearing a thing.

Feylinn smiled waving at them as well she stood up placing her plates in a nearby sink and walked outside. Once she was clear of everyone she poked a hand out of the gate. "Everything's set." She mumbled handing a letter to a passerby who didn't stop to say a word.



Lost Kingdoms Ch. 05



It has been while since I've posted. Writers block came up a long with the busy season at work. I've also been working with an amazing editor who has been helping me revamp the first few chapters and this one as well. I hope you all enjoy and like always feedback is welcome! 

**** 

Jumping off the mount that had collected him from the Tournament Area, the Game Master couldn't help but grin. His dream was finally coming true, even if it was at the expense and lives of those he'd tricked onto the island. His parents had been made fools of, his family name ridiculed for believing in something the modern day world refused to believe. Though, now before the thousands there with him and the millions around the world, he still believed magic would return. 

Growing up wasn't easy when your parents were housed at the local asylum. Growing up wasn't easy for a young man who knew magic existed in a world where it was all make-believe. And so, he'd become someone else - someone who had no past, someone who wasn't the little boy with the insane parents; he'd become the Game Master. The Game Master was who he was. His real name would reveal his history and the true nature behind what the world was calling a mass kidnapping. 

Strollingthrough the inner tower of the castle of the final boss, the Game Master looked over the newspaper clippings that littered the walls. 

"Family torn apart by fairy tales." 

His fingers moved over a few of the clippings;one of them showed a happy couple, followed by another clipping of the same couple in straightjackets. 

Science was trusted before magic, and because science could not find any rhyme or reasoning of magic, it did not exist. When his parents came forth with proof of the island, proof that magic existed with his birth, they were presumedinsane by society, stripped of their parental rights, and the Game Master was thrown into the adoption system. Living a life in and out of foster homes because of the trust and belief of his parents, the Game Master decided at an early age to do whatever it took to prove to the world that they were not crazy. Even with the world against him, the people on his island would survive or die by the magic no one believed in. 

Moving to the crystal balls that served as televisions as well as a way to communicate on the island, he smiled. Placing his hand over the main crystal ball, he waved into the foggy orb and began to speak. "Welcome one, welcome all. Now, please don't be upset. I brought you all here because I believe that you all are the future." He grinned and spread his arms wide as a picture of the island appeared behind him. 

"Do not fear - everything you know ofLost Kingdoms is true here." He removed a spell book from what looked like his pocket and opened it. Once opened, a menu screen hovered before himand was touch-activated. "I've tried to make things as simple as possible for everyone to get used to.Simply put, the controls of the game are the same here." 

An avatar appeared on screen,demonstrating how to change equipment and skills via the menu. Everything wastouch-activated, which would come in handy. 

"One more thing!" The Game Master's voice boomed as the avatar held up one finger with a wink. "Your HP bars are displayed on your chest." The avatar pulled the top of her shirt down slightly so that her collar bone was displayed. In the middle of her chest was a green diamond. 

"The new armor that you will find will have that portion missing." Once again, after the Game Master finished speaking, the avatar went into a small dance of sorts as new armor appeared on her body. One could only think of Sailor Moonduring this sudden transformation. Once her sudden alteration was complete, the diamond could clearly be seen through the armor. "It's your job to keep the crystal from becoming empty. There are four stages: green means you are completely healthy, orange means your health is only a bit lower than complete health, red means your health is extremely low or your health is being otherwise affected by a status change, and emptymeans . . . well . . . that's obvious." 

Just as she had before, the avatar mimicked what he was saying. While she was in green health the avatar flexed and blew kisses to the screen. When the crystal turned orange, she placed her hands on her cheeks and dropped her mouth agape in mock horror. Once in the red, she fell to the floor and began to cry, only to stop moving once the crystal was empty. 

"It is up to your Healers and potions to keep you alive. No pressure, right?" The Game Master grinned once he was back on the screen. "Enjoy the stay and get to know the game.Remember: magic is returning to the land, and you all are the future." 

With a click, the crystal's transmission stopped and the Game Masterwas left alone. He believed what he was doing was for the best. No one believed him but soon everyone would. There was no flaw in his plan: first, magic would flourish on the island; then, the barrier would be lifted- and magic would return to the world. 

**** 

Diana looked up the stairs that lead to Leon's tower,and her footsteps echoed in the hall with each step she took. It was pretty obvious that she was nervous -her fingers kept tapping at the brick wallsas she walked. She wasn't climbing the stairs very fast; in fact, she kept stopping after each few steps. This was the first time she'd been up in his tower- and to top it all off, she'd be alone with him! Taking a deep breath, she shook her head and clenched her fists. She was dating him now . . . well, sort of.Either way, she needed to stop being afraid of every little thing. Decidedly taking the final steps through the winding corridor, she peeked through the open door. 

"Hello?" shemeekly called, keeping her place at the doorway. 

"You can come in," Leon called from another room. 

With a slight bow to no onein particular, Diana entered almost coyly, looking at the simplistic setup of the room. It was decorated in his favorite colors, and red and black bedding sat neatly upon the full sized bed in the corner of the room. Taking in a few things, she found herself drawn to the swords hanging upon the walls. It seemedhe'd never sold any of his swords. There was a small plaque beneath each set of swords that displayed the levels he'd used them at. Diana smiled, tapping the small level one blades. She hadn'tknown him then; she hadn'tactually met him untilthey'd both been about level twenty or so. 

"I keep them all." 

Jumping when she heard him, she turned to face him -and her eyes went wide. "What are you—?" Her words were cut off with a squeak as she slammed her hands over her eyes and shook her head. 

Tilting his head, Leon shrugged. "I was changing." He jerked his thumb over his shoulder, pointing to the bathroom behind him. "I'm not naked," he laughed. 

"Put a shirt on!" she squealed, peeking through her fingers -only to jump again and squeeze her eyes shuteven tighter than before. 

Laughing again, he moved to her and gently patted her head. "You truly are innocent." 

She looked up. She didn't close her eyes, though.She was an adult for heaven's sake; seeing him without a shirt shouldn't scare her so much. "I've just never really experienced this." 

Nodding, he bent down and met her eyes, tapping the spot on her forehead again. "It's alright; I'll teach you." 

Diana nodded and kept her eyes on his. Leaning into her, he pressed his lips to hers firmly. Like before, Diana let him take the lead, her eyes closing quickly as the kiss deepened. The two stood still, their lips parting every few moments for a brief breath. When the kiss finally broke, Leon wrapped his arms around her and laid his head against hers. 

"I'm sorry." His voice was uncharacteristically hesitant."I didn't mean to make you feel uncomfortable." 

"It's not just your fault." Diana spoke softly, her face still flushed from their kiss - and his partial nudity. "I shouldn't have let it get to me." 

After a moment, the tension seemed to drain from them both, and they shared a smile. Their relationship was awkward - but it was theirs. While the two had kissed and held hands, they had yet to put a label on what they were. Patting his chest lightly, she pushed him away and pointed to his suitcase. 

"Put a shirt on." Smiling, she walked to the door. "I'm going to change, too; these robes are too heavy." 

"I'm sure we'll get used to it," he said sadly, running his hands through his hair.He looked out the window and pointed towards the mountains that marked the beginning of the final area. "I don't think we'll be leaving here for some time." 

Looking to where he'd pointed, she nodded. "We'll figure things out. If everything he says is true, we're going to have to start raiding again- and soon." 

The thought of raiding was not a happy one. Diana's hands clasped together before her as she thought about it. She was never really in any danger, being a Healer; everyone always protected her with their lives. Though there was now the very real fact that she'd have to protect them even harder. 

"How will we know when we're hurt?" she asked, looking to Leon with tears in her eyes. "It's not like we have an HP bar." 

"I don't think he's told us everything. It's still very early into his game." He moved over to her again, placing a hand on her shoulder. "We'll figure it out - and we'll survive." Bending, he kissed her eyes before wiping the tears from them. "Don't worry; I won't let anything happen to you or to anyone in the guild." 

Nodding, Diana rested a hand on his cheek. It was the boldest thing that she'd done with him.Hegrinned and closed his eyes, nuzzling her hand. "I know you'll protect us." 

The two shared their moment for a little longer before Diana pulled her hand away at the sound of the crystal turning on behind them. Both looked at it, confused, before seeing the transmission about how to use the menu.Many users had discovered that and the HP display on their first day on the island. Without realizing what she was doing, Diana quickly turned to Leon. Sure enough, once the Game Mastermentioned the diamonds on their chest, Leon's appeared.Reaching outwith a trembling hand, she touched the diamond with wide eyes. 

"That's how we know if we live or die," she mumbled, looking up at him. 

"Seems that way," he mumbledback, looking down at her chest. Her robes were low cut, and her diamond could be seen resting above her breast. 

After a moment of the two not speaking, Diana smiled and pointed to her clothing. "I think I'll actually go change now. We're not going out anymore today, are we?" 

Shaking his head, Leon smiled and moved to where his own clothing was, still in his suitcase. "No; I think it's best that we stay in for today. We'll talk about raiding and questing tomorrow." 

Diana smiled and beganmaking her way down the stairs after a small wave to Leon. Looking about the great hall,she noticed almost everyone was staring at the newfound life bars on their chest. It was just something to get used to: new powers, new lives, and now death at almost every turn. Spotting Ace, Miranda, and Randal, she made her way over to them. 

"What's going on?" she asked once she was near enough for them to hear. 

"Just checking out our cool new, oh, so depressing gages of life," Ace quipped, tapping his chest where his life bar was. 

"A little diamond that dictates life and death . . . .How cruel can you be?" Miranda said, looking into theholographic screen that was replaying the Game Master's message. 

"They're small, but they hold a lot of life. Remember how our HP bars worked in the game? I have a massive amount of health compared to you two." Randal pointed to Miranda and Diana. "But my life bar still looks the same as yours." 

Nodding, Ace clapped his hands, realizing Randal was right. "That's right!Even though it looks small, it doesn't show our true amount of life force." 

"Life force?" Diana asked, tilting her head in confusion. 

"Isn't that technically what it is now?" Ace asked hesitantly, frowning slightly. 

They couldn't help but laugh. Most of them usually saw the glass half empty - except for Ace. He was always the one that tried to see the glass half full. Diana shook her head and finally pointed to her tower. "I'm going to change. I think Leon will be down soon, so we should start coming up with a plan." 

"You're right; we can't stay hidden forever," Miranda said with a little sigh. "We have to figure out how we're going to bring money back into the guild." 

Looking at the new faces of those who seemed gladof the protection that Lunar's Eye offered, the original five members knew it wouldonly make them a target. There had always been player killers in Lost Kingdoms when it was only a game. There was no telling if those same people, namely Dark Horizon, would dare to attack a player who couldn't protect themselvesin real life. 

They would have to find some way for the lower level players to get strongerwithout making too big an impact on the way the guild was run. But it was going to be harder than they thought - and trouble was right around the corner for the once happy guild. 

**** 

That night was a rough one; it sounded like the island was in constant battle. The crystals blinked on and off with tales of players duking it out - both in and out of the arena. While there were no deaths, many players took the time to adjust to their new powers. Lunar's Eye was the same; many of the newer members took to dueling in the courtyard with supervision. Diana stayed awake almost all night to heal members when the duels seemed to get out of hand. 

Randal stood strong throughout the night as well, taking three fellow tanks under his wing. 

"It's all about your Resistance," Randal pointing out, bringing up his character sheet. Pointing at the Resistances at the bottom, he named them all. "Fire and lightning seem to be the favorites amongst mages, but that doesn't mean the other elements should be forgotten." He grinned as he pointed to the other elements. All his resistances were the same, over one hundred points in protection for water, fire, earth, and air. 

The three tanks pulled their character sheets up to compare their Resistances to his. "I can't even compete," one of the newer members mumbled with a laugh. 

"I have high dark and light Resistances," a young redhead stated with a grin. 

"That's not a bad idea," Randal mumbled, crossing his arms over his chest, "While there aren't many light or dark mages out there, we never know when they might pop up. Nothing is guaranteed in this world anymore." 

"I see you have a lot of armor as well," the elder of the three said, pointing to Randal'sstill-displayed character sheet. 

"Armor is always a must. You're going to the front lines, so you'll be taking a lot more physical damage than magical. Mages always try to blow up the squishies." 

The three nodded and once again compared their stats. None of them came near Randal's, and all three sighed. "Even put together,you'd still beat us," the red head said with a chuckle and a shake of his head. 

"It's his gear." The older one pointed to Randal's character screen, tapping the armor icon. "His gear is all legendary." 

"It took weeks to get this gear," Randal said proudly."We don't just do one dungeon and move on. If there's something I want in there, I'm going to keep going for it, no matter how long it takes." 

"This piece took forever." The voice and touch made Randal jump. Looking over his shoulder, he saw Diana pointing at his chest piece on the display. 

"That was from the Goblin Lord, wasn't it? The little ones kept trying to overwhelm us. You died twice in that dungeon," Diana stated with an almost girlish giggle. 

Randal's cheeks and ears went red as a beat. "I did not!" he shouted, looking to the three in front of him. 

"You can actually die?" the red head asked incredulously. 

"Anyone can!" Randal sniffed matter-of-factly."I didn't start out this strong." 

"You did die, and I almost did, too, trying to get you back up." Diana crossed her arms.In her robes, the simple action jutted her chest out. 

All four men noticed and quickly looked away; Diana, on the other hand, was naïve and thought nothing of it. "You'll all get there, and we'll help. A new dungeon was discovered, so we'll be heading out." She patted Randal's shoulder. "Leon wants the original five to show the new members how we do things." 

Randal clicked his display away with a bright grin. "Finally, we'll see some action." Pulling his shield from the ground, he stretched and waved the others on. "Let's go; the sooner we get there, the sooner we beat this thing." 

The small group made their way to the front of the guild hall. Most of the guild was standing there already, watching the members who were going to the dungeon get their gear ready. Diana and Randal made their way to the front and were instantly greeted with wide smiles- those of which would be friendly faces in normal circumstances. 

"We ready to do this?" Leon asked and placed a hand on Diana's shoulder which made her face turn bright red. 

"As ready as I'll ever be," Randal sighed, digging through his pouch as he made his way to the gate. "Everyone have potions ready?" 

"Why potions?" Ace askedas he slung his bow over his shoulder. 

"We don't know how things will go. If I can't heal you." Diana's voice seemed panicked, and her breath began coming in short puffs. 

"Don't worry about it; we'll be fine. This shouldn't be a hard dungeon. It's just to show them how we'll be training them to work with us," Leon explained,looking to the others for reassurance. 

"Diana, it's still a game. Our game!" Miranda said, poking at her forehead. "We trust you, no matter what." 

Nodding, Diana looked up at Miranda, and slowly, she calmed down. If she went into this panicked, she really would mess up. These people were counting on her, and she wasn't going to let them down. "Alright . . . . Let's go beat this, then." 

All nodding, the group slowly pulled open the gates of the guild hall and filed out, keeping their Healer and Mage in the very middle of them, protected at all times. "You'll be able to get this?" He looked towards one of the new members everyone called "Gadget". 

"Sure can; I built this thing just for this." A small orb flew from his hand and over the group that was on the other side of the fence. "It'll follow you guys and stay above the battle. We'll be able to see everything." 

"You crafted that thing?" Ace said, hopping and swiping at it as it flew by. 

"How'd you think I made my money?" Gadget said with a toothy grin. "When people want to record something cool and there's no outside party recorders allowed,I find a way." 

"So it'll record our fight?" Randal asked as he slapped Ace over the head to make him stop. 

"More than that, it'll broadcast it here live." Gadget pointed to the long hall where multiple crystals were already set up. "And it'll record it so we can go over it once you get back." 

"Pretty cool;you're amazing." Leon waved to get the group's attention before heading towards the dungeon opening. "We'll take the mounts." 

"Really?" Miranda asked, slightly confused. 

"I want to see if it's true. We've seen almost everything but them." Leon was busy clicking at his menu, items flying by as he dug through his inventory. "Ah, here we go." 

Once he found his mount whistle, he clicked the item, and it appeared in his hand. Gripping it, the others watched as he brought it to his mouth. "Here goes nothing." 

Taking a deep breath, he blew into the end of the whistle as hard as he could. Everyone took a slight step back, but no sound could be heard coming from the whistle. 




Lost Kingdoms Ch. 05



"This is like a bad movie," Ace mumbled after a short moment of inactivity. 

"Should have known. This is all crazy, but there's no way a flying horse that's onfire is going to—" Leon began before he was cut off by Ace pointing and shout of triumph. 

"Oh, yes it is; it's real!" Ace called in an almost panicked voice. 

Looking behind them, there was a blazeof motion heading in their direction. Without thinking,they all ran from the path, and the horse skidded to a stop where they'd been only the moment before. The beast was larger than the average horse, and deep black wings fluttered against its body before settling against its sleek, strong body. Smoke rolled from each of its pores. It wasn't literally on fire like it had been in the game - but it looked like it was burned to a crisp. 

"Hellfire?" Leon spoke softly to get his mount's attention. With a soft neigh, Hellfiredid a little dance with his hooves and looked in his direction. Scraping his hoofs on the pavementagain, Hellfire made his way to Leon. Leon moved forward, raising his hand to place it on Hellfire's muzzle. The mount reared slightly, flames erupting from his back, warning Leon to stop his movement. Yanking his hand back, Leon stared into the eyes of a beast he never would have imagined would be real. Once the flames finally snuffed out, Hellfire brought his muzzle to Leon, sniffing at his hair and shoulders. 

"Don't move," Leon mumbled to the others, once his mount had calmed and allowed Leon to make move towards him. "That's a good boy. It's me; we've been together for awhile." 

Hellfire neighed slightly,bending his front legs slightly and inviting Leon to jump on. Being careful to keep his movements slow, Leon took hold of Hellfire's neck slowly, expecting the once burning mane to scorch himat any moment. Once his hands were firmly placed around his mount's neck, his eyes popped open in surprise. With a boyish grin, Leon leaped the rest of the way onto Hellfire's back and looked at his group. 

"He's not hot at all . . . . I can'teven believe he's real." 

"Holy shit," Gadget mumbled, looking at the display of the recorder that'd been hovering and recording the whole thing. "I can't believe I managed to record that." 

The others smiled and began to open their inventories, andone-by-one, the remaining four of Lunar's Eye called upon their mounts with silent whistles.