Merry-Go-Round Second Draft: Chapter Eight

Chapter Eight – Left

“Damn it, damn it, damn it!”

“Calm down. There’s nothing you could have done.”

“Whatever! All I did was sit there… and watch her get blown away!” Sieural yelled. “I should have been able to do something!”

Sieural punched the tree he sat under. The whole forest seemed to shake with his yells. The grey, earthy gravestones nearby seemed to echo his voice between each other.

“Sieural… It’s okay.”

“It’s not okay. The worst part is, I don’t even remember what happened. Why the hell did I survive?” Sieural continued to yell.

“I… I don’t know. But, it’s not like you to act like this…”

“Maybe not, Alexis. Maybe not. But… either way, Oaklyn is gone. I was there, and I didn’t do anything.” Sieural sent another punch into the damp grass beneath him.

“But you couldn’t have done anything.”

“Then who the hell did something, then? Why were they all killed?”

Alexis sighed. She twirled her pink hair with her finger, and looked toward the ground, unable to answer.

“I don’t know. But something saved you… And I don’t think you should spend that gift beating yourself up like this.”

Sieural took a deep breath, and stared through the gap between the dense trees, catching a glimpse of the sky.

“Whatever.”

Sieural sat still for several minutes. Alexis also did not move, choosing to stay by her good friend as he recalled the events that took place the day before.

“You don’t know what happened, huh?” Alexis said, suddenly, frowning.

“Not one bit.”

“How interesting.” A voice from behind the nearby tree called out to the two.

“What the heck?” Alexis said in response to the sudden voice. “They’re already here?”

“What?” Sieural asked in confusion, as Alexis immediately readied the weapon she carried, a scythe.

“Oh, I’m not here to fight you. I was just commenting on how interesting it was to know that the one who the power we need is not aware of it.” The voice said, as a man stepped out from behind the shadows of the trees.

“Shut it, would you? I swear, you sound evil, Kai.”

“Did I? I was aiming for it.” The man seemed to smile, but it was hard to tell within the darkness of the forest. Then he turned towards Sieural and said, “It’s nice to meet you. My name is Kairius.”

He held out his hand, which Sieural hesitantly shook.

Kairius had extremely long dark blue hair that reached to his waist. He wore a blue trench coat, and blue pants. It seemed that every part of him, except for his skin, was blue.

“Don’t worry. He can seem evil, but he’s not.” Alexis smiled.

“Whatever.” Sieural said, not wanting to meet anyone new at the moment.

“Enough of the introductions, I should say. I was lucky to get here before anyone else.”

“What are you talking about?” Sieural said.

“Let’s just say that some people aren’t happy that their colleagues are dead, hm?” Kairius had a smile on his face that seemed to portray a different image than what came from his mouth. “So, it would be in our best interest to get out of here.”

“Out of here… as in this forest?” Alexis asked.

“No, out of here as in… this city.”

“Wait, what?” Sieural interjected. “What about Soriana?”

“Sory, Ari, and Shiri should be fine. They’re not involved.” Alexis replied.

“Involved? With what?”

“Well…” Alexis began, but did not continue.

“I believe we should discuss this as we move. Standing in one place is not a good idea.” Kairius said, as he began walking back toward the city.

“Wait, Kai. Why are we going that way?” Alexis asked. “Isn’t that back toward Kereial?”

“I think getting a sword for Sieural would be a good idea. The number one fighter in the Kereial Academy can’t be of much use without a weapon.”

Sieural didn’t notice it until after Kairius had said it, but he had no weapon. If people from the same organization as the people who killed Oaklyn attacked him again, he would have been unable to protect himself, much like he was when he was attacked the first time.

Alexis still held her scythe, while Kairius had a sky blue longsword strapped beneath his long blue coat by a blue belt.

As Sieural followed Kairius’ quick stride, he asked, half jokingly, “So, Kairius, what’s your favorite color?”

Laughing, Kairius responded, “Yellow, actually. But a guy in a yellow coat doesn’t seem as evil as one in a blue coat, does he.”

“…” Sieural didn’t even try to respond. Instead, he continued following Kairius and Alexis through the forest.

Soon enough, they reached the signature dirt path that led into the small city of Kereial.

“Hurry up and get your sword, Sieural. We need to get out of here now.” Alexis said, as the three reached Soriana’s house.

“That would be best. “ Kairius also commented.

Sieural entered the house, and saw a small piece of paper that sat on the dining table.

“Sieural, me and my little sisters went to the market to help Mom. We’ll be back when my mom finishes working, so I’ll see you then. If you want to help us, you’re free to.

-Soriana

And, stop moping, idiot. –Shiriana.”

Sieural sighed, and walked up to his room. He grabbed his sword, and jumped through the window the same way as he did one day earlier.

“Where are Sory and the others?”

“Helping their mom.”

“Oh… Kai, do we have time to say good bye to them?”

“I’d like to get back home by sundown. Walking through the snow at night is quite difficult.”

“Oh. Darn.” Alexis sighed.

“Wait. Snow?!” Sieural exclaimed, looking toward the mountains in the north.

“I suppose I should explain, I guess.” Alexis said, as the group began walking toward the city gate.

“Well… umm… How do I put this…” She continued to ponder her words.

“We… we’re, I guess, this little organization that does stuff for the continent… I guess.” Alexis stammered, unable to word her sentence.

“What?”

“Alexis and I are members of a group called the Consecrated Coalition. The Coalition for short. And, well, its purpose is not something I can reveal just yet.”

“And why not?” Sieural asked.

“For one, you haven’t officially joined us. For all I know, you could leave immediately after I tell you the secret and spread it all across the continent.” Kairius grinned.

“Good point.” Sieural sighed, continuing to follow Alexis and her long-haired friend.

“I’d be willing to tell you… If you promise to join us.” Kairius continued to grin sinisterly.

“I’ll think about it.”

“Oaklyn was a member too… actually.”

“WHAT?” Sieural immediately yelled, causing Alexis to cringe.

“Calm down…”

“Sorry.”

“Yes… Oaklyn was your good friend, right? I’m sorry to hear what happened.” Kairius said, showing a rare frown.

“So, what… Is this ‘Protectorate’ some sore of sworn enemy, or something?” Sieural asked, recalling the insignia on his attackers’ robes.

“You know of the Protectorate?” Kairius asked.

“The people who attacked me and Oaklyn were wearing robes that had ‘Protectorate’ written on it. All six of them.”

“Well, that certainly isn’t smart of them.” Kairius laughed.

“And besides, who likes wearing a uniform? I mean, it so much better just wearing anything you feel like wearing.” Alexis said.

“Somehow… I really don’t think fashion statements should be at the top of your mind.” Sieural frowned. “Oaklyn was just murdered.”

“Sorry…” Alexis sighed. “It’s my way of coping with things like that.”

Sieural echoed her sigh. “Whatever. I guess I knew that already.”

“Enough idle talk. We should walk a little faster, or we’ll get caught by other members of the Protectorate.” Kairius.

“How the heck would they follow us?” Sieural, confused, asked.

“They have their ways. Unlike the Coalition, they have a wide information network. Many people that you may know are members of the Protectorate.” Kairius explained.

“That’s… a little unnerving.” Alexis said. “I didn’t know that.”

“After all, Riania, Kaelyn, and I founded the Coalition long after the Protectorate was made.” Kairius said, smiling.

“I guess…” Alexis frowned.

After a long period of walking through the low-elevation plains that surrounded most of the area south of the mountains, the hills at the foot of the towering mountains had begun to appear. The grass beneath their feet became less moist and colder. The trees became more plentiful, and the air became colder.

“So, where exactly in the mountains are we headed?”

“It’s a small little building that was carved into the mountainside… It’s almost at the summit of the main mountain path. Just a little bit away from there.” Alexis said, pointing to its relative direction.

“Up there? And we’re supposed to get there by sundown?” Sieural groaned.

“Hey, you never complain! What’s wrong with you?” Alexis laughed.

“Shut it.” Sieural sighed.

“That would be a good idea. I have a feeling that we’re about to be attacked.” Kairius said, slowing his pace to examine the surroundings.

They had left the city close to two hours ago, and somehow, the members of the Protectorate that were sent to chase them had caught up. The rolling hills to the side of the three Coalition members had protected them for a while, but now, Protectorate members had lined those same hills.

“What the heck? When did they get there?” Sieural exclaimed.

“They have their ways.” Kairius replied, still grinning. “Get ready, hm?”

Kairius drew his sword, and Alexis readied her scythe. As if in response, a large group of robed men jumped out from behind the hills, and rushed at the group.

Alexis immediately used her abilities to wrap her scythe’s blade in flames. With each slash she took, a wave of flames emanated from her weapon that not only burned, but also cut its target.

Sieural was matched by three enemies, which he had a significant amount of trouble fighting. He slowly fought off the attacks that prevented him from attacking.

Ducking under one slash, he dropped to the ground, and slid into one enemy, kicking him in the stomach. As another attack came, he rolled to the side, and kicked the same enemy into the path of the slash. He quickly stood up, and rushed at the second of his three attackers.

Meanwhile, Kairius was dispatching of his enemies with great ease. Not only did he land each and every of his slashes, he managed to add finesse to his attacks. He dodged each of his opponent’s attacks with grace, and continued hitting them with his sword.

Sieural blocked another attack, and pushed the sword to the side, sending the second of his enemies off balance. Acting quickly, he tripped him while also ducking underneath a third slash. Grabbing the fallen enemy’s sword, he launched it at his third attacker, piercing his body. At the same time, he stabbed the assailant beneath him with his own sword, finishing the fight.

Alexis, with her flaming scythe, made quick work of her enemies. None of them could even approach her; with every slash, she created an impenetrable flaming slash that could slice through flesh.

Before long, the group that had attacked the three had all fallen, without much difficulty.

“Come on, let’s go. Quickly.” Alexis said, beginning to run.

As Kairius followed closely behind the pink-haired girl, Sieural watched them from behind, hesitating.

“What did I get myself into?” Sieural sighed, before a shout from Alexis caused him to run after them.

Luckily for the three, they were not far from the cover of the evergreen trees that densely covered the mountain slope. The trees’ scattered fallen leaves covered their tracks, and soon enough, even Kairius decided that it was safe to slow down.

Alexis, panting after the long run into the mountain forests, said, “Hey, Kai… let’s take a break.”

“I suppose that would be a good idea. However, we do happen to be very close to our destination.” Kairius replied.

“We are?” Sieural asked, looking farther up the slope.

The path, although densely packed with trees and shrubs, slowly became less steep, and reached the middle of valley between the towering peaks of the nearby mountains. The sun was just starting to set, and the warm sun-heated air was now cooling off and streaming down the sides of the mountains in a torrent of icy wind.

“Yes. Our residence is just north of here. I’d say it’s about a 10 minute walk farther up the slope.”

“Man, the hike gets shorter and shorter every time I make it.” Alexis smiled, as she continued walking.

“I don’t see the point in resting, then.” Sieural said, also following Kairius farther up the mountain.

Soon enough, and not any longer than ten minutes, they reached a small indentation in the mountainside. Somehow, that carving in the rock hid a large, multi-roomed building-like structure that was somehow cut underneath a ledge. Polished wooden logs stretched from the smooth floor to the rough ceiling, about fifteen feet high. Small oil lamps were hung from each pillar, lighting the rock structure as if it were in broad daylight.

“Well, we’re here.” Alexis turned to Sieural and smiled. “Make yourself at home…”

There were several wooden benches with obviously-handmade cushions that were scattered around the main room. Even though the building was carved into a solid stone mountain face, the feeling of the room seemed warmer than even Sieural’s old house.

“Heyy, it’s you!” A red haired boy said, walking up to the three.

“Wha?” Sieural replied, not recognizing the boy who seemed to know him.

“Oh! Hi!!!” Another red haired girl exclaimed, walking up beside the boy.

“Hello?” Sieural replied, still perplexed.

“Oh! You know Sieural?” Alexis asked, energetically.

“We’ve talked once.” The boy replied, grinning.

“We have?” Sieural asked.

“You don’t remember? I’m crushed.”

“It wasn’t long ago, actually. I think it was two or three days ago… after the tournament.” The girl added.

“Ohh!” Sieural exclaimed, remembering the two.

“Glad you remember now. I’m Araschaun.” The boy said, extending his hand for a shake.

“And I’m Shiara. We’re twins.” The girl said.

Their deep red hair seemed to mirror each other. While Shiara had short hair for a girl, to about the middle of her neck, Araschaun styled his hair long for a boy, the exact same length as his twin sister had. Furthermore, the two twins stood at the same height. At first glance, it would be hard for someone to discern the two, or even realize that the two were of different genders.

“Is Kaelyn with you?” A young boy asked, walking into the central room from one of the side hallways.

“No, sorry, Luna. She’s still on her way back from Tasseyle.” Alexis replied to the boy, patting him on the head.

“Wait a second, Alexis. You’re telling me that this boy is a member of this Coalition?” Sieural asked, grabbing hold of Alexis’ shoulder.

“Yep. Isn’t he cute?” Alexis grinned., and then turned to Luna once again, and said, “Luna, why don’t you introduce yourself.”

“Oh… Umm… Hi! I’m Luna.” The little boy grinned, and held out his hand.

“I’m Sieural. Nice to meet you.” Sieural shook his hand.

As Luna walked past him to greet Kairius, Sieural asked Alexis, “And, how old is he?”

“Ten… I think.”

“I don’t get what you’re thinking. How could you bring a ten-year-old kid into an organization like this?” Sieural sighed, putting his hand on his forehead in exasperation.

“Well… things happened. All I can say is… well… umm…” Alexis stuttered.

“Never mind. Remind me not to ask you for explanations.” Sieural said. “I’ll ask Kairius.”

“Meanie.” Alexis grinned. “Sorry that I’m not great at explaining things.”

“Whatever.” Sieural said, as Alexis walked into the side hallway.

Just then, Kairius approached Sieural. With his trademark grin, he said, “I assume you’ve made your introductions. There are still four members that have not arrived just yet. They are still on a diplomatic missions to Tasseyle and Lakai. They should be back very soon.”

“This organization isn’t very big, is it.” Sieural said, looking around the building. Only six members were present.

“Compared to the Protectorate, not at all. The Coalition chooses to be supported by the southern cities of the continent. Kereial, Tasseyle, and Lakai, mainly.”

“And let me guess. The Protectorate chooses to be supported by the northern cities. Those big, metropolitan cities like Elleani.”

“Exactly. You catch on quickly.” Kairius grinned.

“So, why have I never heard of these organizations before now?” Sieural asked.

“That so happens to be another problem. The Coalition is a rather private organization. We feel that is it best for the continent that we not show our deeds to every citizen. Therefore, we do not garner as much support as we could.” Kairius responded. “And…”

“Once again, the Protectorate is a public organization that takes the resources of the powerful industries at a steady rate. It’s like a whole mess of things, right?”

“You are correct.” Kairius nodded.

“So, why the heck are the Coalition and the Protectorate fighting it out, anyway?”

“Differences in the way we think.”

“That’s really encouraging.” Sieural sighed.

“Well, I find it unlikely that you would choose the Protectorate over our side at this point.”

“Whatever.”

Sieural sighed, and walked back toward the entrance to the building. Three people suddenly came into the building. Kairius, immediately noticing, walked briskly to them, and said, “Welcome back, Koellis, Eria, Riania.”

“Thank you.” A long-black haired girl responded.

“Nice to be back. I hate Lakai. How the hell do they live on the water?” The white haired man responded, annoyed, as he walked in and immediately sat down on one of the benches.

“All we need is to wait for Kaelyn now.” Kairius replied.

“She should be on her way back from Tasseyle, right?” Riania, the black haired girl, asked.

She turned to the entrance and looked to the relative direction of the city of Tasseyle.

“Yes, she should be. However, Alexis, Sieural, and I were attacked along the path here. She may be in trouble.”

“Who is this Kaelyn person, anyway?” Sieural asked, walking up to Riania and Kairius.

“She’s the third founder of the Coalition.” Kairius responded.

Sieural nodded, and walked out the door, and through the rock crevasse.

“Oh. He’s the newest member. He’s Alexis’ good friend… and also knew Oaklyn very well. He doesn’t seem to be in a good mood.

“It’s understandable.” Riania said. “Well, I’ll be sure to introduce myself later. Eria, Koellis, you two also.”

The tall, light-blue-haired girl, Eria, nodded silently, while Koellis said, loudly, “Yeah, whatever. If that brat is moping over someone dying… Yeah. Whatever.”

As time passed, and the sun fell deeper into the western horizon, Kairius called the members of the Coalition into the main room. Sieural, who had spent most of the time staring at the blue, cloudy sky, walked into the warmed room.

“As most of you should know, there has been a huge threat of war between Kereial and Elleani.” Kairius immediately started.

It seemed that Sieural was the only one surprised. “What the?! Wait, war? I’ve never heard that!”

“The case of an arson and murder in Kereial has had all its traces lead back to Elleani. The Kereial council is seriously leaning toward fighting a war.”

“Would that be the burning of my house and the murder of Oaklyn?”

“Yes, that would be correct.”

“The hell? But what are they thinking?” Sieural yelled. “Who in their right mind would declare war on Elleani? The Kereial military would get annihilated!”

“Perhaps.”

“And, why didn’t I know about it earlier?” Sieural exclaimed.

“The council is keeping it confidential for now. It may not happen.” Kairius replied calmly.

”Whatever! This is serious. Why haven’t you told the citizens yet?”

“I don’t feel it’s necessary. Now calm down, Sieural.” Kairius said.

Alexis, who sat next to Sieural, put her hand on his shoulder. “It’s okay. It wouldn’t be right to make everyone in Kereial go all frenetic right now.”

“It would be right. War with Elleani? That’s just crazy!” Sieural exclaimed.

Alexis didn’t reply. A frustrated Sieural stood up, and waited for a response. Immediately noticing that nobody would side with him, he sighed, and said, “Whatever.”

Without another word, he walked out of the building. Alexis got up and attempted to go after him, but Kairius stopped her.

“Don’t worry. He’ll be back. Kaelyn will stop him.” Kairius grinned.