Zellorah Kingdom History 3

"It's alright, he's getting washed up I suppose," Andromeda replied, getting into position for Evosias to dress her in the saddle.

After a few moments the bubble pulled away from Araglas and went back into the vial. His clothes were now whiter and seemed very clean. Shaking his head he sputtered as water dripped into his eyes, "Only problem with that...my hair gets wet...." he gave his head a shake and ll the water flew out of it instantly, leaving his hair dry and slightly fluffy. He casta curois glance at Evosias who seemed slightly worried about something, "Are you ok?"

"...Mmm, yes," Evosias replied, calmer now as he walked past Araglas, gently ruffling that fluffly bond hair. He threw the saddle up onto Andromeda's back in a practiced toss, and went on securing the chest straps. "A quick bath? My initial reaction was that someone was attacking you. For some reason I feel oddly protective over you, Araglas."

Araglas blushed and looked at his feet, "R-really? I apologise, I did not mean to worry you." He put the vial back into a pocket andlooked at Evosias and Andromeda, "I don't know anyone except you two in this Kingdom."

Evosias grinned, "Well out of all the two people you could know from Zellorah, you've picked well I should like to think," he replied, tugging on a final chest strap and buckled it. "And no need to apologise, it was just unexpected. Are you interested in chemistry or potions much?"

Araglas blushed again, "I-I think I did to....I am actually, I was a potions expert in a Kingdom far to the North. I was able to learn much from them." He walked forward beside Evosias and studied what he was doing.

"You must have aquired an impressive amount of abilities in your travels," Evosias noted, watching Araglas for a moment as he worked with a neck strap. "So...tell me more about your travels...starting with how you came to Zellorah and we'll work backwards," he suggested, finishing with the saddle as Andromeda rested on her belly.

Araglas nodded and stared at Andromeda's scales lost in thought for a moment before he began, "I was in the Northern Kindom when I was given a thought by the Goddess, I was told that it was time to move on, I was to go to Zellorah, I was needed there for a great event. I left the Northern Kingdom and immediatly started south. I traveled over many mountains, and arrived at the borders of the Shadow Kingdom, I was weary of being there, so I almost always wore my cloak. I traveled without sleep for three days. I arrived at the Capital of the Shadow Kingdom, and I rested briefly. I was found by a squadron of lesser femons and I had to fight. I managed to kill them all, but I was wounded in the process. I traveled for the next two weeks without almost any sleep, and no more quarells. I arrived at the Zellorahn border without further incident. I went to a healer as fast as I could, but..I had lost to much blood. I was found by a farmer and his wife. They took me. I repayed them for their troubles by working on their farm for a few weeks. Then, I bought a horse from them and rode here. It took three days. I sold the horse before I entered the city...and well you know the rest."

Evosias blinked, snapping him out of a certain trance that the narrative brought him into. "You've much perseverance, with stanima and courage much beyond even what the extradinary posess," he replied. Evosias stopped and studied Araglass shamelessly for a moment or two, imagining the powerful body needed for such a feat. He smiled to himself, "There'll be plenty of rest to be had for at least tonight...celebration and rest, you've made it!" Evosias exclaimed, clapping Araglas on the back before scaling up leather loops to the saddle. "Hop on," he said, offering a helping hand.

Araglas smiled softly and nodded, he took Evosias's hand and hoisted himself up into the saddle, He looked down at the ground and gave a small shiver, hights had never been a strong point for him. He wrapped his arms around Evosias's waist and held a little tight. "A celebration sounds good, I have not had a reason to in a long time. I think, I will dedicate tonight to new friends." he whispered this into Evosias's ear.

Between the feeling of arms cradling his bare waist and the gentle breeze of a whisper in his ear, Evosias shuddered pleasently, giving a smile. "A most honorable dedication," Evosias replied in kind, his whisper drawing out the s's and c's from his long tongue. Andromeda stood and strode in reverse to the furthest wall before catapulting into a full gallop, launching out into the air and taking a quick dive before snapping oper her wings to steady their flight.

Araglas gasped and shut his eyes and tightened his arms around Evosias's waist. They both know what they are doing....I will not fall....I will not fall....I trust them completly...., he said this all to himself as a light sheen of sweat appeared on his forhead.

Evosias was slightly shocked to find that the tightening of Araglas' arms did not bring discomfort, but a measure of sensuality. He grinned, leaning forward slightly for better areodynamics as Andromeda spirled slowly towards the earth in the direction of the Ball. "Worry not, Araglas, you're perfectly safe. Just look around, but not down...not yet."

Araglas kept his eyes closed and tightened his grip as he felt his stomache rise as they went down, "If it's ok with you I think I'd rather keep my eyes closed." He took it to heart that Evosias said he was safe, and that made him smile.

[posted at bottom]

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Connor led Mira into the ballroom and she gasped with surprise. She was so joyful with what she saw before her eyes. The ballroom was so very beautiful, adorned with her favorite color blue. She hugged Connor with sheer bliss. "This is wonderful! Thank you!"

"You're welcome, Mira," Connor said softly. "It was all my pleasure."

Mira only smiled.

"May I have this dance?" Connor asked as the music began to play.

"Of course!" Mira said joyfully. And then the two gracefully danced together on the ballroom floor.

Aurelia changed quickly into an elegant light blue dress then had her personal maid help her with her hair. Finally she was ready, her hair curled and placed up into a bun, so she left the room and headed towards the ballroom. When she saw Jaiden she walked to him quickly and tapped him on the shoulder.

Smiling, Jaiden turned around. "You look gorgeous," he said warmly.

Aurelia smiled as she wrapped her arm round his. "Why thank you sir, you look very handsome as well may I say. Now shall we dance??"

"Yes... I would like that," Jaiden said with a smile.

[posted below]

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Yuki sat where she was all day under the tree she had created whilst talking to Araglas, until she heard the sound of music drifting along the streets like a light breeze on a summers day. Curious as to where such cheerful and delightful music came from she rose gracefully from where she sat and followed the sound of the music through the streets, humming along to its tune as she walked. Soon she came to the castle and smiled when she realized that the wonderful music was coming from it, so she entered the castle and followed the music as it became louder and louder until she came upon the ballroom, silently she entered in it and walked in a slow manner to a chair as she watched the dancers dance and the musicians play.

Aurelia smiled then quickly pulled Jaiden to the middle of the room. Standing in front of him, she smiled as she took his right hand in her left. "Now put your left hand on my waist..."

Jaiden placed his hand lightly on Aurelia's waist whilst he took her hand softly in his, watching his footing intending not to step on her delicate feet. Taking to the floor, each step as fluid as the next as they danced on the floor, like a pair of swans swimming on a still lake. [Firenze's work]

"You have done this before...you are quite the dancer." Aurelia complimented him. She gave a small wave to her sister Mira as they passed by one another. "How long can you stay here?" she asked Jaiden suddenly.

"Actually... I haven't... You're the first girl I've ever danced with..." Jaiden thought for a swift moment. "I'm not sure... but I would love to stay here with you forever... It's so placid here... mush better than where I came from..." He tried to choose his choice of words very carefully because of other listening ears. He knew very well that this kingdom was an enemy of the Shadow Kingdom itself.

"Well then stay here forever..with me..." Aurelia said as she looked up at his face.

Jaiden looked softly into her beautiful eyes. "And I will..." he smiled. "Forever... I promise you..."

Thank you..." Aurelia whispered as she rested her head against his chest.

"You're welcome," he whispered into her ear before giving a gentle kiss on her cheek. "I'm hoping on joining this kingdom... I want to pledge my full service... to you..."

Yuki watched Aurelia and Jaiden with a smile from where she sat. She studied Aurelia's hair style for a moment before she began weaving her magic creating pretty small yellow flowers appear in various places in her hair lightening up her face a little more in the light, like an angels angelic face.

"You are very welcome within my kingdom..." Aurelia replied as she blushed slightly from the kiss. She glanced at their reflection in one of the tall mirrors that hung on the walls and gasped slightly from the sudden appearance of flowers in her hair.

"Someone seems to love watching us..." Jaiden whispered tenderly before chuckling lightly. "The dance is wonderful... I hope you are enjoying yourself, Aurelia."

"I am having a wonderful time." Aurelia replied. "Will you take me to your home one day? I would love to visit your kingdom."

Low, hammering pressure spikes came to the ears of all the Ball's participants; Andromeda beating her wings to a landing in a courtyard just outside. She settled, patiently waiting for Evosias and Araglas to dismount, and for Araglas to get his stomach back.

"See, that wasn't too bad," Evosias said to Araglas, noting that his riding partner was still gripping his waist fiercely. "...Its safe to let go, but only if you want to..."

Araglas waited till his stomache was back where it belonged and slowly let go of Evosias waist. He was about to say something when he slipped backwards and fell of Andromeda's back and landed on his own back, knocking the air out of him.

Evosias sprouted wings and soared to Araglas, bringing forth healing magics to his hands, "Araglas! Damn, that was completely my fault..." he said, damning himself as he gently worked warm healing energies into Araglas' head and chest. "I'll make leg straps for the saddle; what a strange accident...oh man, are you alright?"

Araglas was blushing deeply and he nodded, "I...am...fine..." he said as he breathed deeply. "It is not your fault, I leaned back and wasn't holding onto anything. Thank you for your concern though, it's sweet, I was hoping for a good entrance too.., he said this to Evosias as he took in large amounts of air.

"I'll tell Andromeda to keep at least one wing open until you're off..." Evosias replied, relieved that Araglas was only winded from the fall. He offered a hand to Araglas to help him stand, "I think the enterance was grand enough, my friend," Evosias mused.

Araglas took his hand and hoisted himself off his back. He brushed some dirt off his knees that somehow got there and turned his eyes towards the party. He found several pairs of eyes staring at him and he immediatly blushed and turned his attention back to Evosias, "Suddenly...I feel very nervous...." he gave him a weak smile and went to tighten the chord of his cloak only to realize that he had left it in Evosias's quarters. Uh-oh....no security blanket...

"Unless you've made many enemies I can't imagine anyone going after you. However, I can fetch it for you if you'd like," Evosias suggested. "And don't worry about the onlookers, they're more concerned...I suppose, though it is rude to stare." He gave a smile, "No worries, you've the best protection around...save for your cloak," Evosias encouraged, giving him a snug shoulder hug.

Araglas blushed at the hug and snuggled closer to Evosias, "N-no...it's ok...I think I can do without it. But, I might stay close to you...if you don't mind." He looked around nervously and searched the faces in the crowd. "I hope....that nothing bad happens...I've this feeling in my gut...but its not from the Goddess."

Yuki from where she sat recognized Araglas from earlier in the day as well as Evosias who was accompanying him. She studied Argalas for a moment and noticed that his handsome cloak he wore earlier that day was not resting upon his shoulders and she thought it completed his outfit as well as made him look rather handsome. Before she weaved her magic this time she collected a napkin and placed on her lap, then weaved her magic so that a cloak similar to what he was wearing earlier appeared on his shoulders. She had embroidered it with a simple blue cherry blossom on the top corner to see if he could guess who had created it for him. When she had finished she rested her hands on the napkin as a soft white glow appeared around them as she healed her wounds so that her blood would not go everywhere.

"I will take you to the kingdom I once served..." Jaiden replied quietly."... when the darkness has passed and the evil that reigns that land is gone."

Aurelia nodded then looked at Jaiden. "Do you want to meet my sister?" she asked.

"Of course," Jaiden said with a smile. "She is the one who rules the Zellorah Kingdom?"

Aurelia nodded with a smile as she took his arm and steared him towards Mira. "She is queen over this kingdom, and a very good one at that." she said. "Mira! Connor!" she called suddenly.

Swiftly, Mira turned towards the two with Connor and smiled. "I see you found youself a boy," she giggled.

Araglas looked at the cloak that now rested on his shoulder and marveled at it's beauty. He searched the Ball Room till his eyes came to a rest on a familiar face, "Yuki.." he said under his breath with a smile. He waved to her and saw a glass of water on the table beside her. He waved his hands towards it, and several drops rose from it. With his other hand he made a smaller thin stream come from the glass and harden into a small chain. The other drops he concentrated and shaped them to look like cherry blossom leaves. Keeping his attention on them he maticulously weaved the chain through the glass like leaves, then with a small push, floated it into Yuki's lap. He sent a small thought speech to her, "This is my gift to you. The blossoms will never melt, and never break, the same for the chain. I hope you find it suitable and to your liking." He gave her a smile before hugging Evosias's arm happily.

"This is Jaiden, we met earlier by the lake. Jaiden this is my sister Mira and our good friend Connor..." Aurelia said, introducing everyone.

Mira giggled. "It's good to meet you, Jaiden. Well, Aurelia..." she blushed. "Connor and I have become more than just friends..."

"Good to meet you as well," Jaiden said, smiling and then gave Connor a wink.

Connor laughed lightly. "Greetings."

Aurelia smiled at Mira. "Really? You will have to tell me more later..." she replied as she took Jaiden's hand in hers. "Will it be alright if Jaiden stays in one of the guest rooms for a while? He's just....he's not from round here...he travels you see, and so he has nowhere to stay."

Araglas pulled away from Evosias with a smile, "I'm going to look around..I'll be back ok?" he blushed but leaned forward and gave Evosias a kiss on the cheek, then walked into the crowd. He had only taken a few steps when his foot caught on a train from a young maidens dress and he slipped and knocked into Aurelia and Jaiden, sending all three of them crashing to the floor.

Aurelia gave a small cry as she was knocked to the ground. "What just happened?" she asked as she lay on the ground struggling to pull herself from the pile that was her, Jaiden and Aralgas.

Jaiden got up, but then he looked down at Araglas and helped up Aurelia. "You ok?"

Connor brought Araglas to his feet and sighed. "Are you all right?"

Araglas rubbed his head where someone's foot had landed and nodded, "I think I am...please exscuse me..I hope I did not cause any serious harm. I think I steped on someone's train....ow.." he rubbed his head again and felt a small bump. Ouch....I'll feel that in the morning..., he gave both ladies and gentlman present a bow, "I am Araglas Manore...Water Mystic at your service." he winced again as his hair brushed the knot on his head.

Connor bowed respectfully as well. "No harm at all and no inconvenience. So, you need not worry."

"Nice to meet you, Araglas!" Mira said with a joyful smile.

Jaiden only grinned in the amusement of watching them.

"I'm fine and it is very nice to meet you Araglas.." Aurelia said as she dusted herself down from where she stood beside Jaiden.

Araglas nodded to them and turned around, he found Evosias watching him and blushed, but motioned him over, "I am here..with my friend. I haven't been in the Kingdom very long...he has been a very great help to me."

"That's wonderful! Are you having a good time in the ball? How long will you be staying?" Mira asked with wonder.

Evosias was still tenderly fingering that small spot where Araglas had kissed him, caught in amazement how the feeling always remained youthful. He dropped his hand and strode over to Araglas and the others, "As long as the Goddess sees fit...and we just arrived at the ball, haven't had a chance to wet our gullets with mead yet," Evosias replied, looking to Araglas if it were about the correct answer.

Araglas smiled and nodded, "Yes...as long as The Goddess allows me to remain I will. Will Andromeda be ok by herself?" he looked back behind them and tried to see her, but they were to far into the ballroom.

Evosias caught a glimpse of the violently violet dragoness some fifty meters away at a buffet table. "Well...there goes dinner," he mused, watching the vain attempts of the caterers trying to reason with her. "Andromeda honey, watch out for that mead...you'll be grounded from a barrel of that stuff," Evosias gently warned her, letting Araglas in on the mental statement. "Well, speaking of food, should we load up a plate or two before Andromeda snags it all or perhaps we should save it after a dance or two, possibly?"

Araglas blushed, "Are you asking me to dance?" his heart was starting to race and he sent a private thought to Andromeda, "He asked me to dance...what do I do.."

"If you have the ability, then go on and dance!" Andromeda replied, practically in devine gormet pleasure at the moment. 

Evosias stepped near Araglas and gently whispered by his ear, "That is, if you would have a dance," he stated more formally than before, smiling as he watched both Araglas' current reaction and anticipating the reply.

Araglas blushed crimson at Evosias's words and nodded, "O..Of course..I would love to dance.." He sent Andromeda a reply, "Thanks for the help....I hope the meat goes to your hips" he tried to sound mean but it came out with a smile attached to it. His ear tingled as he felt Evosias breathing on it.

"Mmm...so do I," Andromeda replied in mirth simply to throw Araglas. "Alright, you already said yes...now be confident, and focus only on your partner, not anyone else..." she added, the mead tempting her eye and appetite.

"Excellent," Evosias breathed, his cool breath gently teasing Araglas' sweet flesh. A short, furtive lick to the rim of Araglas' ear satisfied him, and he took a step back holding out his hand. "Its a good proper Ballroom dance for a little while, though I hear they've planned for exotic drums a bit later in the evening..."

Araglas shivered as he felt somehting wet touch his ear, but before he could even think about it, he had placed his hand in Evosias', "To tell the truth...I'm not much of an exotic dancer..I can only dance a little.."

"It'll be easier once you're in the mood," Evosias replied smoothly, gently striding with Araglas in hand towards the dance floor. Once they reached the polished floor, Evosias gracefully turned them both for a proper Ballroom dance position. "Then again...you might have to be more specific when you say exotic dancing; you wouldn't want me getting the wrong idea now, would you?" he grinned devilishly, the music starting as he slowly lead Araglas to start.

Araglas blushed crimson again and sent another private message to Andromeda, "He is serious isn't he" he turned his waist and placed one of his hands on Evosias's shoulder. His eyes met the others, befre he blushed again and looked shyly down at the floor.

"He's flirting, but watch that hot dragon blood..." Andromeda replied. "Stay confident! Think of something saucy to say...like, what's your idea of the wrong idea?" she suggested, the mead drawing her muzzle closer as a chef fled quickly from the barrel.

A third hand from Evosias gently tipped Araglas' chin up before it vanished as quickly as it came. He gazed into his partner's eyes, lightly at first; just at the iris level before letting himself fall deeper into those oceanic jewels. 

Araglas had no thought at the moment, his world was revolving around Evosias, what he saw looking at him from behind his deep eyes was taking all coharent thought away. He found that he wanted to drown in the depths of those eyes, that he didn't want to look away.

And neither did Evosias. Such a wonderful tether there existed now between their eyes; swimming in each other's gaze trying to sort out each other's souls. "...You kissed me," Evosias said softly, hardly breaking their gaze.

Araglas struggled to pull himself back from the depths of Evosias's soul and blinked, "Wha...what?" he asked, his thoughts were muddled as he tried to comprehend what Evosias had said.

Evosias smiled warmly, "Shhhh..." he gently cooed, repeating softer yet, "...you kissed me," Evosias purred again, batting his eyes ever so suavely. He watched Araglas' eyes for a moment more before adding, "I adore it; such a rush from something so simple..."

Araglas couldn't stop blushing, the way Evosias was looking at him, it made him feel almost naked in front of him, but, he was not uncomfortable, he actually felt more comfortable in his arms than he had anywhere he had ever been. "I kissed...you?" His head was still swimming, "Andromeda...what's he talking about...." he sent this private message to the Dragoness.

"On the cheek! You kissed him on the cheek!" she replied rapidly.

"Perhaps this'll jog your memory," Evosias replied, undeterred as he gracefully craned to plant a slow, sweet kiss on Araglas' cheek.

Araglas turned a deep red, "Thanks...." he said the Dragoness. He turned his attention back to Evosias and smiled shyly, "I guess I did...thank you..." he placed a hand on his cheek where he had been kissed. He looked into Evosias's eyes and smiled, "Your eyes, are so beautiful..." he said softly.

"As are yours, my handsome companion," Evosias replied, a bit of burgundy colour rising to his vermillion hide. "...And yours, my handsome companion, are as beautiful as the moonlit sea," he said softly, like a summer night's breeze.

Araglas blushed, "Th-thank you...I do not think...that I could describe your eyes...they are unique...and..that makes them special...I would not want to compare them to anything...for that would lessen their value to me..." he spoke carefully, trying to pick the right words.

"Then if we are not to compare, we can think of the most heavenly thing and say that not even that can best thy beauty," Evosias replied, smiling sweetly, completely lost in Araglas as they roved across the floor. "...Then I stand corrected; your eyes are more beautiful than a moonlit sea..."

Araglas blushed, "I wish..I could find words that could describe yours....but I cannot...is...is your..." he closed his eyes and wished he could allow Evosias feel how he felt, the rapid heart beat, the sensation of being weightless, dying and being reborn, all in one. Being broken and missing the last piece, and now the piece is found. He wished he could put it into words, but he couldn't.

"Shhh..." Evosias gently crooned, "with me you need not have to try to find the words all the time...I can feel your meaning in some ways; its how I found you. And right now, I can't tell who's feelings belong to who..." he said, smiling gently. "...Its like how you speak with your thoughts, only use feeling."

Upon hearing those words, a deep sadness filled Araglas's heart, and a small speck of tears formed in his eyes. It had been a very long time since he had cried. It had almost been a mellinia, but now, when memories were brought into the open, memories that he wasn't ready to remember, it tore his heart open. "Please exscuse me.." he managed to get those words out as he gently moved away from Evosias and hurried from the ballroom. He needed a quiet place, someplace that he could be alone. Walking blindly through startled guests and caters, he made his way outside and to a small fountain. There he sat down and bent his face to his hands and cried silently.

Evosias stumbled in shock, composing himself quickly as he drifted off of the dancefloor towards Andromeda. "What did you do, Evosias?" came the slightly unwelcome and sharp inquery from Andromeda. 

"Nothing as far as I'm aware...I apparently struck a sensitive nerve," he replied sheepishly, freezing in his decisions until Andromeda barred his way. 

"Stop...inquire once, then I shall...if nothing, we leave him with himself to sort it out," Andromeda said forcefully.

Evosias nodded solemnly, knowing there was wisdom in her words; there always was. He tenderly searched out Araglas' mind, and upon finding it again he gently queried, "...Araglas, I did not mean to offend..." he began, voice dropping off as he rested heavily against a pillar, coming down from his heavenly flight fast; destined towards pergatory.

Araglas kept his face hidden in his hands, he heard Evosias's words, and couldn't face him, he felt terrible for walking away from him on the dance floor. He sent a message to Andromeda, "Please....tell him he did not offend me...I don't think he ever could...I have...memories...that I am not ready to deal with...and hearing that he could feel emotions...it opened them...please..tell him I am sorry..I did not mean to walk away...I...I didn't mean to hurt him...in such a short amount of time...he has come to mean alot to me...I never wanted to hurt him...damn this life...damn this curse..." he cut the link before he said anything else that they would not understand. He simply sat there, his heart bleeding for two people, and his head screaming damnations to the Goddess that cursed him.

Andromeda's eyes went wide, "Go to him!" she said quickly, Evosias not questioning her directive once and sprinted out in the direction of the small garden Araglas went to. As Evosias drew closer, a great deal of agony that was far misplaced struck at his heart. He recoiled slightly, closing the floodgates to external emotion as he quietly approached Araglas.

Evosias was still a few yards away when he stopped by a marble sculpture, "...Araglas," he whispered but in a way he hoped, nay he knew Araglas would hear and recognize. "...I've closed my mind..." he began with uncertainty, "...may I join you?"

Araglas jumped and looked up, his blue eyes, were now a murky blue, and red and swollen, he tried to say something but hiccoped instead, so he nodded. He rested his head on his knees which he had pulled to his chest. The tears had not stopped, but they weren't as violent. His soul was still sending curses to the Goddess, and the sense of agony and pain, was even greater this close to him, it almost seemed impossible for one person to hold this much inside of them.

Crossing the distance quickly, Evosias came to sit by Araglas, his just glistening violet eyes picking up the pinpoints of stars from above. "What is this pain that you hold that is so terrible?" he asked carefully and softly, almost innocently. Evosias yearned to set an arm around Araglas, to ground him, to pull him close...the ripples of their last parting were lapping strong at the shores of uncertainty as of yet.

For all the years he had been alive, Araglas had never told but one soul, what he knew of his existence. It was this person that his heart bled for, the other, was sitting beside him. He wished he would hug him, something to help make the pain stop, "I cannot trust my voice to tell you this story. You already know..that I had a friend, the one who gave me my cloak....he meant so much to me..we loved each other...but not in a way that would be thought. We were like brothers, I would do anything for him, and he for me. I had known him since he was a child. I watched him grow up. I saw him become and adult. We became as close as any brothers can. Things were peaceful...life was good, the Goddess was idle, becuase her children were happy. But...peace never lasts long. An assasin killed the Queen of that time...it was brutal. He was a knight, and he was called to arms. I joined in as a mage, I was already welcomed in the Kingdom, and I requested to be put with his battalion. The King jumped at the chance to have me on his side. We set out, to make war against the nation at fault. A feirce battle it was, it lasted two years, and in all that time..I never killed a soul, I injured, and maimed, but I never killed. He was the same way. We just didn't have the hearts to kill. One day....our battalion was ambushed...by a group of mages and knights. It was a horrible fight. The mages mowed down everything in their paths..he...he managed to kill one...but...he was hit by a spell of lightning. When he hit the ground...I went beserk..I killed all of them...I used the water in their bodies...and I drowned some, then..I used the water in the air to freeze their bodies...and then I shattered them...when all lay dead, I went to him...he was barely able to talk....I could heal him, I was renowned for it. I called upon the water in his body, but...my gift did not work....I was shut out of his body..the Goddess barred my path...I tried..and tried...but she would not let me heal him. He knew...he knew..and he smiled...he said..he said..he said he was glad that I was the last face he would see when he died...I forced the battalion to go on ahead, I stayed with him...it took three hours...before his life left him...and..and when it did...I made it rain...I drowned the earth. Nothing will grow there now. I killed it...I brought down the rain...it was so hard, I could barely control it....I made a wave...and I rode to the nation that had killed him...I blamed them...I...I...I...I rode the wave over their cities...their castles....I killed them all....everyone..I spared none...my anger was that great..." he had opened a link from his mind to Andromeda's so that she could hear to.

Evosias was watching Araglas intently, weathering the waves of his emotions like weathering a hurricane. He did not recoil from his companion's past stricken form, nay, he moved to embrace it. Evosias pulled Araglas to him and rested his form on his own, "...It may be of little consolation...I am deeply sorrowful for your loss...for what such a loss drove you to do, those terrible things, those great things. May your pain pass...may your pain pass..." he gently crooned, cradling Araglas protectively.

Araglas laid there, in Evosias's arms, still ctying, still telling his tale, "That is my sin...that is why I do not search for love, why I do not let it find me, why I have no friends...why I never stay in one place to long, she fears I will become attached and then, see them die, and kill all over again....she moves me on and on, I am always moving...never staying, I am cursed...I have been alive for thousands upon thousands upon thousands of years. I have seeb Kingdoms rise and fall, armies wiped out with technology people could not begin to fathom...I have witnessed it all, in her name..when I was young...I vowed into her service, I though it a great thing to serve my Goddess, but...it is nothing but a curse...I thought to make the world a better place, but I must sit by..I must watch things happen...I am the witness, for all time...I cannot die of old age, and my cloak keeps me from dying by other means...that cloak...was made by my friend...but the Goddess blessed it...so that I would serve her indeffinatly. So that I could never die..always witness..." he cried softly into Evosias's arms, wishing all his pain would stop.

An uncontrollable, raking sob burst from Evosias' lips not only from the terror of such a history, but for the very way it made its victim feel. Such a spell it was, or curse...such a thing to keep a man from friendship, companionship, or love. It seemed the only thing the Gods could not grasp; mortal love. In the lives of their children, passion is vibrant and as brief as the span of time they breathe in; nothing immortals could understand. To take away the sole purpose of a man's life and sew in another directive was seemingly beyond any deed done out of kindness...to hell with it! Shift the deadly weight onto another poor soul; not this one...not his dear Araglas. "I'm not going anywhere..."

Araglas clung to Evosias, he stayed there, his crying ebbing down. His mind and thoughts, becoming one again, his heart, sewing patches over the old ones. The sky darkend, and a soft rain started to fall, Araglas wanted to wash away this feeling, this feeling of helplessness. He wanted to love, and be loved. He wanted friendship. He could serve the Goddess and have that. He ignored the throbbing of his heart and for the first time in his long life, he ignored the call of the Goddess. His breathing had slowed, and the rain was making it easier to talk, "Th-thank...you...for listening...to me..I have..never told another soul...beside him. I...I want so badly..the things...that I was not allowed for so long...I am tired...of being the witness..I..I wish to be part of something..." his voice was soft, and gentle, almost not to be heard over the rain.

"Anytime...my dear companion," Evosias crooned softly, kissing Araglas' crown. He listened for a moment to the soft pattering of the rain about them, calming him as he smelt the fresh earth open up in response to the heavenly tears. "And what something do you wish to be a part of? Hmm?" Evosias asked gently, "...I can say you're already becoming a part of something, in here," he said, drawing one of Araglas' hands to his chest where his heart lay; beating strong and fast, calming with each rythmic jolt.

Araglas felt Evosias's heart, it was beating, just like his own, just like his. He looked up into Evosias's eyes, the eyes he had lost himself in twice. The ones he wished he could stay lost in. "Evosias....I...." his words couldn't come, he was scared if he said them, the Goddess would take Evosias away, just like she had his friend. Instead, he chose to lean closely and place a kiss on his cheek, like he had earlier.

Evosias smiled, snuggling Araglas tightly. "I know, my dear companion...I know," he said; he didn't need to hear the words to believe it; he felt it. With a stroke of sudden passion, Evosias gently edged his lips closer, watching the eyes of his companion until their lips met; the world melting away as his eyes closed, enjoying the moment.

If anything in this world had ever surprised him, this was it. Evosias was kissing him, him. He had wanted this for so long, he leaned into their kiss, his eyes closing, the world shutting out, and them, in their own world. wrapped in each others arms. He unlocked the part of his heart he had sealed, so long ago. He opened it, and let all his emotions flow free, the wonderful feelings, he had locked away, so that they would not be taken from him.

As Evosias came up for air, he reluctantly parted his lips from Araglas', staring at the wonderful creature he cradled. This moment in which they exist was theirs, it was sacred...and he wanted more. He tenderly ran a gentle finger across Araglas' raindrop moistened jawline before succumbing to the passion again...to such a passion this time he relaxed his partner to the ground and kissed with a spicy fire.

Araglas breathed deeply before he felt the others lips grace his own again, his mind was becoming numb, as was his thought track, he never wanted this moment to end, he wantedthis fire, that spread through his body, to never go out. Let the Goddess see, let everyone see, he had finally found love. A sudden thought burst into his mind, which made him sadly push Evosias away gently, "We...are...still at the ball." he managed with a gulp of air, to his needy lungs. His hair was sticking to his face and his eyes, were glowing with a soft blue light. But it didn't matter, he had found something he had waited centuries for.

At this, Evosias grinned and burst out laughing rather than pout at the interruption. "Oh but it would be so exciting if someone walked in on us! And let alone me! The only dragon rider in Zellorah, that'd be juicy gossip..." he giggled, rubbing the center of Araglas' chest affectionately before he sat up against the wall of the fountain, studying the form of his intimate companion. He smiled, humming chuckles now and then, listening to the music and laughter from within. "Need a change of clothes? Or can you use your magic to clean your clothes like before?"

Araglas blushed and smiled, "Not needed....the rain...is my element..I've stayed clean this whole time." he smiled and placed a kiss on Evosias's cheek. He sat up and looked around, he spotted a maid and a butler oogling at them and he giggled, "Uh-oh, I think we have been spotted." He buried his face into Evosias's chest and sighed happily.

This newfound observation sent Evosias into another set of giggles, "Meh, at least the telling wasn't the hard part," he said, sighing gently. "...Your abilities are extraordinary, a true gift; I'm most impressed," Evosias complimented, stroking Araglas' blond hair in a few fingers. "In some places you may be considered a God yourself, seeing as you can will rain to fall from the heavens...I am in awe." He sighed in content, chuckling now and again. "...Would you like to return to the Ball? Have some food and drink now that we've more to celebrate?"

Araglas nodded, but he put a hand upon Evosias's and kissed it, "I am no God, I am just able to control the water...I do not deserve to be a god. I would not want to. For I would have to give this up, and I could not. Not for anything." A flash of red lightning ripped apart the sky then dissapeared. Araglas cast it one glance before turning to Evosias and smiling. He stood up and offered him his hands.

Evosias happily took Araglas' hands, gently stabalizing himself with them as he stood up as well. "I could not agree more," he replied, "seems you're close enough to one as it is now, and it does not sound like a very appealing existence. Must be the reciprocal to the great irony; mortals wish to be gods, while gods wish to be mortals..." Evosias observed, staring warily at the point in the night sky where the red lightning had seared across it. "Umm...should I know what that sort of sign was all about?"

Araglas glanced back at the sky and shook his head, the rain came down a little harder, "She...is not happy with me...I should warn you...her wrath is terrible...but..I think I could face it, if I were with you..." He hugged close to Evosias, not wanting to let go, but knew that they should get back to the party.

"Mmm...I agree, and a dragon no less...I say we've a lot going for us, even if a Goddess is a bit upset," Evosias replied, hugging back affectionately. He gave Araglas a kiss on the cheek and reluctantly pulled away, linking arms instead. "Let us join the celebration," Evosias said, ready to waltz right back in with his companion. "...Shall we finish that dance?"

Araglas cast the sky one last glance before smiling at Evosias and kissing him on the cheek as well and nodding, "I think I would love that."

"I as well, let us indulge in love then," Evosias replied, feeling a bit superstitious about the Goddess as he walked with Araglas back into the throng. Andromeda gave them a wink as they past her...she had already gorged herself on a few dozen roasts and was polishing off a keg of mead. "Careful, Dear...that stuff goes to your head!"

"Oh it know..." Andromeda swayed, hiccuping, "...have a good dance!"

Araglas giggled and watched her sway, "I think she'll break a table or two if she falls over...." his eyes went to some of the gusts and noticed they were whsipering and gesturing in their direction, the attention cause him to blush and keep his head low.

Yuki looked at her gift from Araglas. She loved the way it shimmered in the light and how the light danced through it onto her kimono lighting it up a little. She smiled daintly before she looked to Araglas who was dancing in her opinion rather gracefully, "Thank you Araglas-kun, it is most beautiful and I shall treasure your gift for my remaining life" she thought allowed to him.

"Jaiden, shall we go for a walk?" Aurelia whispered in his ear.

"Yes... I believe that to be a good idea," Jaiden said before kissing her on the cheek. "But... where to? Does the castle have a courtyard?"

"Yes, we have several." Aurelia replied before grabbing his hand and leading him outside. "Won't anyone be worried if you return home?" she asked him as she lead him to the courtyard. The courtyard was empty apart from the small birds that flew in and around the trees. Their song filled the air, though the soft sound of the music back in the ballroom could still be heard. Stone benches sat neatly amongst large rose bushes and lilies whose scent was very appealing. In the centre of the courtyard was a large fountain, spilling water delicately into a little pond. "Your family, will they not miss you?" Aurelia asked once more as she let go of his hand and wandered to the fountain and sat upon its edge, where she gently ran her fingers over the top of the water.

Jaiden's heart became more depressed as he thought about the question Aurelia had given him. "No..." he said, peering gloomily at the earth that passed below his feet. Aurelia's warm hand in his was more comforting to him. "I was orphaned at nine... I was brought up by Shamus... he won't miss me... He only cares for those who are strong enough to carry out his will."

Araglas smiled, "Then I am happy, Lady Yuki, thank you for the cloak, it is very beautiful. I shall keep it for as long as I live." His eyes kept darting to the guests and then back to his feet, "Evosias, I think....is it just me...or...are guests staring an whispering about us?"

Aurelia watched Jaiden as he spoke then stood slowly and walked to him. She took his hands in hers and gazed up into his face. "This Shamus sounds terrible, I am glad I get to steal you away from him." she said wih a smile.
[Posting continued at bottom]

"I am just glad you like it and keep dancing with your head high, you are a handsome dancer" Yuki replied smiling as she watched him for a moment then looked around the room at the other dancers.

"Or three," Evosias chuckled, shaking his head. He failed to see all the fuss the gossips were making. "Try another dance before we go the way of Andromeda?" he asked with mischevious eyes.

Araglas blushed and nodded, "Of course!" He smiled happily and practically dragged Evosias to the dance floor. He hoped that somehting slow would play, so that he could be close to said person.

Evosias giggled, prancing along, "My my, aren't we excited," he said, taking Araglas into his arms for the dance. Evosias was wishing for a slower paced, less formal song to begin playing next...begging the orchestra with his eyes to change their tune. A wistful, slow chord poured suddenly from the cello section; setting the tone for a demur, slow, personal dance. 

Araglas thanked the heavens for the slow song, and smiled, "I am...I am happier, than I have ever been..." He smiled as a soft solo violin melded with the cello's, it was sweeping them up in it's soft tennor.

"Then I am glad," Evosias replied softly, going beyond the social norms and pulled Araglas close, his hands sliding around to the small of his partner's back. He gave a smile, waiting for Araglas to move his hands.

Araglas felt Evosias's hands on his back and a shiver went down his spine, but he smiled, for it was a good shiver. He slid his arms slowly up his chest, before he rested them on his shoulders. "I...I wish this could go on forever." he whispered softly.

Evosias head had tilted back, giving a pleasent shiver as well from the flesh on flesh contact. He gently swayed them in a most comfortable rythmn, smiling happily before resting his head against Araglas', "Aye..." he replied simply, closing his eyes...chest still tingling as the back of his mind plotted devilishly of the pleasure those hands could bring.

Liliana didn't know why she was here, he told her to be here but it was alot of effort to get in, and the red green dress she was in was too flattering for her self-concious. Her eyes scanned the guests, bitting her lip a little and slipping through the guests as silently and trying to not bring unwanted attention to herself.

Araglas smiled at Evosias, he loved him, it was strange how he could come to love him in such a short time. He would do anything for him. He closed his eyes, and gently reached his mind out and touched Evosias's, "I think I am falling for you...I...I love you...I don't know how...but...in this short amount of time..that I have knwown you...I...have fallen in love with you."

Evosias' eyes fluttered open, and his grin transformed into a glowing smile. These words he was hearing were so monumental he had to take a moment to digest their meaning; and then to feel their feeling, that feeling; love. He shivered happily again, "...And you, you've stirred my emotions so and roused my heart; it is amazing that this is all from such a short time. Already I burn for you."

Araglas blushed, his face glowing like a dying sun. He blinked swiftly to rid his eyes of the sudden tears in them. "I...I...I wish I knew something in any language that would say how that ment to me right now. I don't think..I will ever let go of you. I don't think I could..."

"I'm not complaining," Evosias replied, positively glowing from his smile outwards. "And thank you for your meaningful words...and you're welcome," he added sweetly, rubbing cheeks affectionately. "And a word of comfort, my race manages to live for millenia; there's no easy way of getting rid of me," he chuckled.

Araglas stared at the man that was announcing the close of the ball, he smiled at Evosias and looked around, "So...where..do we go from here?" He had left all his belongings at the inn, and had no fresh clothes to change into, plus, his books and other items were there as well.

"Well..." Evosias began, feeling the evening was cut a bit short, yet still enjoyably profound. "...Depends on how you wish to take things, I suppose," he replied. "Its not terribly late, we should catch a bite to eat first, don't you think?" he asked, nuzzling Araglas' neck before gently letting go, sliding his hands to Araglas' hips.

Araglas shivered as he felt the others hands slide down to his wiast, "Th-that..sounds good..." his mind was almost a fog again but he fought to keep himself together. He gave Evosias a smile before looking at Andromeda and giggling, "Though...I think we are walking...I believe she is drunk.."

Evosias gave a lick to the tip of Araglas' nose and smiled playfully, "I do agree," he said, eyes moving to watch Andromeda weave her way over to them; clearly tanked. "My my...what have we here...you'll have to take the stairs, m'dear..."

"Y-yes..." came her delerious reply, stoping and swaying dangerously before them. 

"No offense dear, but...could you sway someplace else?" Evosias said as kindly as he could, noting the danger of her capsizing. Andromeda scoffed in a sort of bizzare chuckle and parted crowds as she made her way for a main corridor of the castle.

"Ah...she'll be wishing she hadn't done that tomorrow," Evosias chuckled, pulling Araglas into a hug. "Come on...lets get some chow, I know just this place in town...Andromeda will be fine."

Araglas had waited till Andromeda was gone to laugh into Evosias's chest, "That sounds wonderful...actually, anything sounds wonderful with you in it." he said with a shy smile.

"Mmm...how about, bed?" Evosias replied whispered saucily into his ear, giggling madly, rubbing his back. He gently pulled away, smiling from ear to ear, "Come'on," Evosias encouraged, jerking his head. 

Araglas blushed madly and walked quickly a little ways ahead of Evosias, he rubbed his face trying to get the blood that was stuck there to circulate. How can he make me blush so badly...his voice...it was...serious...yet...funny...this..is so strange...it will take some getting use to....but...as long as it is with him...I would do anything..." He had reached the garden he had been at earlier and looked at the sky, You heard me..I love him..I will do anything to protect him..even if it means killing...I have joined a side, I intend to stick to it. You should too. He looked back at Evosias and grinned, "I don't know where I am going.."

Evosias was leaning against a stone archway, smiling as he watched his sweet Araglas, "We seem to be back at the garden," Evosias replied calmly, unable to remove the smile from his face. He drew closer, hugging Araglas around the middle from behind. "We don't have to take things as fast as I seem to suggest sometimes; I'm just heating things up," he explained, giving Araglas a kiss on the cheek before gently letting go and took his hand instead. "Walk with me, the place is not far."

Araglas sighed happily and did not mind the blush that came to his face, "It is fine..I like it...it...keeps my mind going...so that it nevers lags. Ok, lead the way!" he said happily as he held onto Evosias's hand, his eyes seemed to glow with their own light in the darkened night. He gave Evosias a happy smile before he looked around, "Where is it?"

Evosias trotted on, "Quite near the castle," he replied simply, walking with Araglas through the corridors. "One of the more romantic places in town from my experience," he added a stairwell later, their steps already leading them down the Main Hall. "What's your appetite for?"

Araglas smiled then looked around as they continued down the hall, his eyes grazing over every painting or statue or vase. "I think...that I would like something warm..anything warm..then...maybe a bit of desert. What about you?" he asked as he turned around and started to walk backwards.

Grinning, Evosias took the opportunity, "Mmm...anything warm does sound good, if not hot. And of course, plenty of desert," he replied in his saucy tone of voice, giving a wink as he licked his lips with his very long, and highly dexterous tongue. Evosias gave a purr, "Appetite seems to broad a category; we'll see how it is after we fill our bellies."

Araglas blushed and turned around, he fanned his face to make it cool and presently tripped over the hem of his cloak and fell face first into the marble floor. He lay there a moment, trying to get his breath back, while his eyes were shut, and a white light pulsed in them. "Oww...." he said pitifully.

"Araglas!" Evosias exclaimed, just missing catching his fall by inches. He knelt by him, "You goofy thing, you've tripped twice now this evening...we need to do something about clothes or your feet," Evosias chuckled, warm healing energies coming to his palms again. He most gently turned Araglas over and set a palm on his face, and on his chest. It was like reiki, with a warm pain banishing heat soaking through Araglas. "Feel better?"

Araglas nodded at Evosias, the touch of his hand on his stomache felt wonderful, and the warmness of the magic just added to it, "I like this...if I stopped tripping who would catch me?" he said this slowly, as if he was drowsy, but it was just the magic taking affect. ALmost instantly his stomach growled, demanding food.

Evosias chuckled, "Just don't hurt yourself beyond what I can patch you up for. I'm good for broken bones, sheared tendons, torn muscles, ruptured arteries, punctured organs...but not bashed heads," he replied, holding a hand out so they could use each other's weight as anchors to stand.

Araglas smiled up at Evosias and grabbed his hand, "I think...that is why I love you..." he said softly, his eyes shining brightly. He was truely happy, at this point in time, he was happy.

"I'm sure I can give you a few other reasons if you give me the time," Evosias replied with another wink. He gripped Araglas' hand tighter out of affection, watching the sky blue eyes of his companion; a sky blue he remembered from one of the very first times of flying. "...On three, one, two, three!"

Araglas smiled and nodded, at the count of three he pulled with all his might and overdid it, sending him on top of Evosias and Evosias onto the ground. "Im sorry! Are..you ok?" he asked as he giggled in embaressment.

Evosias giggled madly, "Oh quite..." he replied, collecting himself. He forgot about anyone else in the hall and set a hand at Araglas' nape and the back of his head; pulling his lips close for a passionate kiss.