Lhouk! Come here, I have something for you!" my father called.

I quickly walked down the stairs of our large palace that seemed very confusing when you are only 4 years old.

My father waited for me patiently in the main room, with something special.

As I approached him, a saw a young yellow Kougra, about three years older than me, sitting besides my father.

Yes, father?" I uttered.

This young Kougra here is Halkkyon, he will accompany you from now on," my father stated.

It was said that when a prince was old enough to walk and talk, someone would be assigned to him to accompany almost everywhere. Even though Halkkyon was only seven, he was large in size, large enough to carry me on his back.

Well, I think I will leave Halkkyon with you, Lhoukas. Have a good day, son," my father muttered.

I turned to my father with my mouth open, but before I could utter a word, he was gone.

Well, young Lhouk, your father asked me to accompany you to the boundaries of your territory to find some fruit and whatnot. So, let's start runnin' before it gets any hotter outside," Halkkyon said.

It was morning at the moment, and we had to hurry before the sun reached its highest point, which made the sand unbearably hot.

As we strode out of the royal gardens and into the main area of our small settlement, the villagers started to notice me.

I stayed close to Halkkyon, since he was very big and almost as tall as me when he walked on all his four legs.

Some villagers bowed lightly to me and other simply nodded in respect.

As Halkkyon and me reached the entrance, the two very tall guards let us through as soon as they saw me.

I carefully walked on the hot sand as we approached the boundaries. If we ever went beyond the boundary, there'll be fluttering scarabugs and hissing wadjets waiting for us.

Hey Lhouk," I heard Halkkyon whisper.

Yes?" I replied.

Doesn't that paint on your arms, as well as the makeup you use on your face bother you?"

No, it keeps my skin cooler. Your fur, does it bother you?"

Nah, my fur's very short and I shed all year round."

I kneeled down on the warm sand and started digging some sand out.

What're ya doin'?" Halkkyon inquired.

Bagguss," I bluntly replied.

Yuck! How can you eat that?"

Well, if you let them dry out in the sun they can be quite tasty, not to mention that you can boil them to make medicine."

I had brought along with me a small bag I carried across my shoulder to put in any herbs or plants I found. I carefully made the bagguss clean of sand and slipped it into the bag.

Lhouk, why did your father ask you to do this? Shouldn't someone else be doin' it?" Halkkyon questioned.

My father just wants me to know this area better, that's all. Besides, this way I can go more often to the medicine tent and learn about herbs," I answered.

We kept walking until we reached an area were the sand was slightly moister. This was the place were most the herbs and plants grew.

I noticed a green leaf sticking out of the ground, that must be a cheops plant.

I ran over and quickly pulled it out. Suddenly, a fear ran down my spine as I saw something else fly out. I heard a hostile hiss and looked on the ground. A green wadjet had been hiding beneath the sun, probably cooling off, and I had just awakened it.

As it curled and opened its mouth to reveal its fangs, I froze with the Cheops plant in my hand.

Suddenly I heard someone creeping up from behind me until I felt Halkkyon leap over me as he landed on the wadjet with claws unsheathed. It was over as soon as Halkkyon sunk his powerful claws into it. He picked it up with his mouth and brought it over to me.

That was a close one," he murmured.

Yeah…" I answered as I was still stung by the fear.

Maybe you can take it back to your medicine lady and make some antidote, or you can use its skin to make a piece of clothing."

I think I will keep it with me for now, maybe I can give it to Kaline and she'll figure it out."

Kaline?"

Medicine lady."

I kept pulling out fruit, roots, and herbs until my bag was filled to the top. These plants barely received any rain, but they didn't really need any to fully grow.

As we walked back to the village, I noticed some figures flying in the sky. At least they had the privilege of flying. I barely knew how to fly with the puny wings I have.

Halkkyon and me re-entered the settlement, heading for Kaline's tent.

As we entered the tent, I started to smell the scent of the herbs Kaline was preparing. She stood at the end of the tent, quietly mixing herbs. She turned around to face Halkkyon and me with a generous smile across her face.

Oh, hello, little Lhoukas. Have you brought more herbs for me?" she whispered.

Yes, I brought as many as I could," I answered.

Good."

Oh, Halkkyon caught a Wadjet that came out of the sand while I was picking herbs, what can you do with it?"

A Wadjet? You never cease to amaze me. Well, I could try to make some antidote out of it. Come, bring your friend along, I need help with a few errands."

She turned away from me once again, pulling out certain bowls and cups.

Kaline was like the doctor of our settlement, and a very wise one two. She was a Striped Shoyru with long brown hair that was colored dark by the sun. She was my mom's friend and someone I looked up to. She had told me that if our clan had let go of the grudge we had against the Minuit clan, we could have made an agreement with them since the Minuit clan may have looked at our case differently now than they did before. I always kept silent about my opinion since I did not know what to say.

As the sun rose higher into the sky, Halkkyon and me helped Kaline with errands such as mixing herbs and delivering certain medicines to villagers. Even though Kaline was kind and honest, some villagers didn't look up to her because her ancestors were from the Minuit clan. Since her ancestors came from the Minuit clan, she had very strange dreams from time to time. Her dreams could usually predict the future, but weren't always accurate. Since she wasn't a full-blooded Minuit, her dreams weren't clearly and she was usually only give omens, signs she had to decipher. I was the only one she trusted enough to actually tell me what happened in her dreams.

As I sat down at the small table at the center of her room with Halkkyon lying besides me, Kaline slowly approached me with a worried face.

Lhoukas, boy, I have something to tell you," she murmured.

What is it Kaline?" I happily replied.

A dream I had last night is worrying me. It was about you."

About me? Really?"

Yes, I dreamt that day burnt across the desert, but at the same time night cooled in the sky and joined together with the burning day. Night and day…Hot and wet…Negative and positive…It said that the last prince will determine this clan's survival. I think…I think day represented you, Lhoukas."

Me? But I am still a kid, are you sure? And who did night represent?"

Yes, I'm sure, but I'm not sure who night represents. Maybe the one who represents night isn't in this clan…"

Kaline stood silently, thinking as she wiped of the herbs' leaves off her white dress.

I looked up to her worriedly, not knowing what to say. Halkkyon was pretending to be deep asleep, but I noticed that one of his eyes has half-closed, and his ears were twitching at every word.

Kaline…Why do you think I'll be the last prince?" I quietly asked.

Well…Business between the Bijou clan and Minuit clan has been very tense lately…a war could break out at any moment!" Kaline replied.

I could see Kaline's eyes look around worriedly, as if she were asking for a sign.

Lhoukas, have you heard the latest act the Minuit clan has made?" Kaline asked.

No, how should I know?" I sourly answered.

So, your father hasn't told you. I expected he would do that. The Minuit clan has recently found a way to make an artificial body with and artificial soul. It was just about one year ago they successfully created one."

Artificial? Why?"

They've been wanting to recreate a gift that allows them to see spirits. As you know, many ages ago, they possessed this power but it seems very few possess it now. The Minuit clan had been know to be a clan who was very close to the celestial world…But it seems they will go to any extent to repossess this power…"

Huh, it seems that predicting the future is not enough for them…"

Silence strode through the tent as both of Kaline and me thought about the grim topic.

Well, I think that's enough for today, Lhoukas," Kaline stated.

I looked up confused at Kaline's gentle and giving face.

Your father is probably waiting for you," she gently whispered.

Right. My father was waiting for me. Everyday after I finished my visit with Kaline, I had to go back to him so he would teach me certain things I needed to know as heir to the clan.

I stood up and thanked Kaline, ready to leave the tent with Halkkyon before she stopped me.

Oh, Lhoukas, your mother left something for you yesterday," Kaline uttered.

Huh? What was it that she left here?" I curiously inquired.

A hairpin. It's something very precious to her that she doesn't wear as often as she did years ago."

A hairpin? What am I to do with that?"

Don't worry, you'll figure it out. Maybe there'll be a girl you like when you grow older and you can give it to her."

I could not avoid it but my cheeks turned pink at the suggestion Kaline had made. I quickly snatched the hairpin from her hand and ran off again with Halkkyon.

Geez, that was a lotta a talkin' you did Lhouk. Are you sure you're four and a half years old?" Halkkyon growled.

Well, the one specialty that the Bijou clan has is that we develop faster than any other Shoyrus, but my intelligence is my own," I proudly uttered.

Oh well, I guess you'll be a smart leader then."

Yes, I hope so."

As Halkkyon uttered those words, I remembered Kaline's dream. Would I become the next clan leader?

It had already been two years since I had met Halkkyon on that fateful day. I had grown to be six and a half and Halkkyon continued to grow bigger in size and age, being almost a decade old.

My father had told me that when I turn seven, I would be taught fighting skills and that I would have less free time.

Kaline, the training I'll eventually take, will it be hard?" I worriedly inquired.

It all depends on your body, mind, and soul, Lhoukas," Kalined softly replied.

As always, I was at Kaline's tent with Halkkyon, bringing her herbs everyday. This time, I was actually helping her make the medicine.

Kaline, have you heard anything about the Minuit clan?" I asked once again.

Well, I'm actually quite worried now. Your father had gone somewhere yesterday and I think it might've been to have a meeting with the Minuit clan…" Kaline's voice trembled.

A meeting? He said nothing to me about it, are you sure?"

Yes. I'm sure. I just hoped he hasn't done anything that is wrong."

I noticed Kaline's hands were trembling as she mixed herbs together.

Well, do you know anything about that artificial creature they created?" I asked.

We've learnt something but not a lot. We know it's a Shoyru, that's for sure, and we know that it's a girl," Kaline commented.

Poor girl, she must be suffering. I have heard many tales ever since I was little about what the Minuit clan does to those who are imprisoned.

That is what always scared me the most. Be careful, especially during the night. Beware the cruel Minuit guards. Most say that those who manage to get away from their jail are not normal, either physically or psychologically.

I put my hand over my eyelid and felt something.

Hey, Kaline, what are these things growing on my eyelids?" I asked.

Kaline stepped over and took a look.

Oh, those are small antennae you have," she commented.

Ante-What? What do you mean?"

It's said that many, many years ago the Bijou clan consisted of mostly Faerie Shoyrus. One of their characteristics was that they had long, delicate antennae growing out of their head and face. Only those of royal blood possess it now and it's said that they don't do anything but keep sand off your eyelids."

As I felt the small antennae growing on my eyelids, I wondered what those Faerie Shoyrus might have looked like. They probably showed off their antennae as a sign of pride as well as their delicate majestic wings.

I shook the thought of my mind as I felt Halkkyon paw me on my leg.

Oy, Lhouk, why don't we patrol outside? I smelled something very strange coming from the sky," he whispered.

The specialty Halkkyon had was that he could detect a scent from hundreds of miles away. It was very uncommon for any Neopet to possess this type of nose and this made him a very efficient tracker. He was able to track someone that was on the fields of Altador in three seconds flat if he concentrated. Of course, he can regulate this talent, which meant he would not be affected by strong smells he does not want to smell.

As soon as Halkkyon finished, I uttered to Kaline, "Oh, Kaline, will you excuse me? I need to go back now and-"

It's okay, Lhoukas," Kaline interrupted, "Go off now, you have a long day ahead."

I nodded and quickly headed off outside the settlement with Halkkyon at my side.

Halkkyon, what kind of scent did you smell?" I panted.

It's a scent I ain't smelled before. It was like pure oxygen that resides high in the sky. It smelled of clouds and somethin' really sinister. I ain't knowing what's goin' on here," Halkkyon quietly growled.

I stopped in my tracks as I felt someone stalking up on us.

Halkkyon stopped in front of me and had a puzzled look in his eyes.

What's wrong Lhouk?" he asked.

As I exchanged glances with Halkkyon, he knew what I meant.

I heard wings flutter lightly in the air. As Halkkyon was preparing to leap, someone landed onto his back.

A tall shadow Shoyru with a very strange uniform was standing on top of Halkkyon's body.

As the sand settled, I could hear my brain telling me to run but my legs wouldn't move at all. I felt as if my whole body went numb and would collapse at any moment.

Hey, are you from the Bijou clan?" the Shoyru cleverly asked.

My eyes were still staring at Halkkyon's unmoving body, wondering what had happened to him.

Well? Answer me!" the Shoyru demanded.

I looked up to see his grim stare burning through me. Those eyes, they were full of arrogance and pride.

Could he be a warrior from the Minuit clan!?

I felt his boot kick me on my stomach and knocking me to the ground.

Fine then, have it your way. It's very obvious you're from the Bijou clan. I can just tell from the markings on you, boy!" he hissed.

He drew a short dagger from the belt around his waist and placed it against my neck. As he was about to make another move, something stopped him.

He kneeled down in pain, clutching his leg angrily. I stood up to see Halkkyon with his claws unsheathed, tainted with blood.

Before the Shoyru could make another move, Halkkyon raked him with his claws across his chest, tearing his uniform.

Lhouk, quick! Please get on my back!" Halkkyon insisted.

As I grabbed Halkkyon's short fur to get on, I noticed a gash on his shoulder.

Halkkyon, but you're hurt," I whispered.

It doesn't matter! Just get on so we can get goin'!" Halkkyon commanded.

As soon as I mounted Halkkyon's back, Halkkyon started sprinting across the warm sand.

We slowly came to a stop and noticed the guards weren't standing at the entrance.

I jumped off Halkkyon's back and entered the settlement.

My whole body froze as I saw unmoving and defeated bodies lying on the ground.

What happened while I was gone?

I fell to the ground and onto my knees from the horror and fear in me. Did the Minuit clan do all this?

My hands were shaking as I tried to calm myself and keep my sanity.

Oh no, Kaline!

I rushed to Kaline's tent with Halkkyon at my side, trying not to look at the motionless bodies lying on the ground.

I burst into Kaline's tent, but I was too late.

I saw her lying in the ground, defeated, with her white dress stained in dark red.

I slowly forced my feet to move towards her body as I felt tears build up in my eyes.

I sat by her and saw she had been wounded on her stomach. Her hands were cold, her eyes were cloudy and her skin was pale. Kaline was really gone.

I felt Halkkyon's wet nose nudge my back.

Lhoukas," he sadly whispered.

My whole body was shaking and I felt that my heart could stop at any moment. Suddenly, I herd a rumbling noise coming from nearby.

Lhouk! Quick! I'm deeply sorry but we have to make sure your parents are safe!" Halkkyon exclaimed.

My parents? Like my father who had threatened the whole Minuit clan and caused them to do this?
I once again mounted Halkkyon's back as he slowly set off towards the place I would find my parents in.

I looked up at the sky and saw clouds were quickly gathering together. Rain? It was an unusual spectacle for these parts of the desert and the perfect touch in my now meaningless life.
As Halkkyon and me made our way into the palace, which was now a destroyed and bloody place. How could this have happened so fast?

We slowly snuck up the stairs and crept into the hall leading to my parents' room.

The door was wide open, just like my astonished eyes.

I watched as a Shadow Aisha in her early teens stand over the bodies of my dead parents. She wore very assassin-like clothing, with many knives and pockets on her vest. She held a long and sharp dagger in her hand, which was stained in red. She slowly turned her stare and glared at Halkkyon and me.
Her eyes were completely black and her iris was a bright yellow color. These were ruthless and cursed eyes staring at me. A wide and sickening smile spread across her face as she stepped towards me.

My body was completely paralyzed. My legs were trembling uncontrollably and I eventually fell on my knees to the ground.

Lhoukas!" Halkkyon whispered.

I was staring down at the ground with clouded eyes. I felt as if my soul had been sucked out and replaced with pain.

I felt a tug on my vest as the Aisha lifted me in the air and we met face to face.

Huh!? What's a kid doing here!? Are you the leader's kid!?" she hissed.

A few moments went by and I felt a pounding pain in my stomach.

The Aisha's fist dug into my stomach before she released me and dropped me to the ground.

Pah! If you're not going to say anything, then I'll torture the words out of you!" she spat.

As I looked behind her, I saw Halkkyon quietly creeping behind her.

He slowly crouched down, ready to leap on. With his claws unsheathed, his tail quivered in the air.
He took a step forward and prepared to land on the Aisha with claws and toes spread out. But before I knew it, blood began flying through the air.
Halkkyon stumbled to the ground with his shoulder wounded with blood.

Heh! What a weakling!" the Aisha laughed.

She gripped her long dagger in her hand, which was stained with blood and tangled with Halkkyon's bright yellow fur.
As I froze, kneeling down with pain stinging every part of my body, the Aisha put away her dagger.
In a flash, she raised her foot and kicked my stomach, making me land on the ground.

As she continued to kick me she laughed; "This is probably the easiest kill I've ever had so far! The Minuits sure like to exaggerate when it comes to instructions!"

My eyes widened as I heard that clan's name. They were behind all this, which didn't surprise me. Was Kaline right? Did my clan provoke the Minuits into doing this?

As I coughed and turned on my side, I spotted the Aisha leaving.

You're not worth killing, boy." she whispered. "If you can't move, then die right there. If you somehow survive, watch your back, because I'll hunt you down no matter what it takes."

With those words spoken, she left Halkkyon and me, lying on the floor wounded and helpless. I felt the room spin around me as it blurred. Soon, all I saw was darkness.

My eyes opened wearily as I saw Halkkyon lying unmoving before me. The moon's faint rays were peeking in from the curtained window. The storm had passed and the moon was at its peak.

Tears streamed down my cheeks from the pain and sadness as I stood up on my shaking legs. I looked towards the center of the room, where my parents laid. I slowly approached their bodies and kneeled down besides them. My hands shook as I grabbed my father's bloodstained headdress and took it off his head. I picked up his crook that lay besides him and placed it on my belt. I took the headdress and slowly placed it on my head with shaking hands.
It will be my burden now I grimly thought to myself. I will carry this headdress and crook with me, to remind me of my clan, which I will never be able to reconstruct. I took out my mother's hairpin, which I had kept safely inside my vest. I faithfully pinned it on the edge of my vest; its silver color shining in the moonlight.

I turned to Halkkyon and picked him as best as I could. Even though he was large in size, his body was fairly light. I slung him across my shoulder as I walked out of the room.

I quickly made my way out of the settlement and into the cold night. My feet sunk into the sands as I kept walking. I looked up at the stars and saw figures flying in the sky.

They must be patrols from the Minuit clan I thought. I better get moving.

I kept walking, carrying Halkkyon over my shoulder, heading west for the Altadorian mountains.
A few hours went by and the sky started to change color as it turned into a pinkish-yellow color. My feet were struggling to stand as more hours passed by. The sun reached its highest points and there was still no response from Halkkyon.
I noticed I reached the end of the deserts as the sand slowly ended and grass started appearing slowly. Mountains lay ahead and the only way through was to fly over them.

I had never flown before, and I doubted I could use my small and weak wings to fly across these mountains. But I had to try.
Struggling to keep my balance, I slowly spread out my wings, their bones cracking from being still so long. I carefully began flapping them, trying to impulse myself from the ground. I tried again, my feet a few centimeters off the ground. I pushed myself off the ground as I pushed myself away from the ground with my feet.
I felt the air filter around my wings and at the same time, a feeling of greatness. I struggled to get higher and higher as I struggled to keep myself balanced with Halkkyon on my shoulder. I flew very fast, for my wings could give up on me at any moment. I rested at every possible rock or piece of mountain I could stand on. I gasped for air every single minute as I felt my wings cramp even more.

I spotted a mountain with a flat area towards the bottom of it. A tall rock stuck out near the end of the area, making an acceptable place to rest. I stood on top of the rock, desperately gasping for air. I took Halkkyon off my shoulder and slowly held him between my arms. His breathing was getting slower and slower every minute.

Who are you, mister?" I heard a voice squeak.

My senses shook as I heard this tiny voice talk to me, making me turn around in a startled way.
A tiny and young Lupe stood before me, no older than a year, with light blue fur and light magenta stripes. Her hair was a teal color and she wore two tiny wristbands around each front paw.

I was surprised to see such a small cub all the way up here in the mountains.

What happened to you?" she asked while craning her head curiously.

I took a deep breath to calm myself down and not panic.

I am fine," I replied.

I slowly began to turn away from her, afraid to answer anymore questions.

Wait! Do you need any help? I have help," she suggested.

I looked at her again, with widened and worried eyes.

No, I am fine. If you'd like, I could get you down from here since it looks like you have lost your way," I uttered.

Oh, ok. I hope my parents don't know I'm gone," she muttered.

I slung Halkkyon on my shoulder once again and grabbed the small cub with one hand.

Lhoukas Bijou, pleased to meet you," I whispered.

Oh, I'm Yaniih Ryou! Pleased to meet you too!" she exclaimed.

It was easier to fly as I glided down the mountain, closer to the ground. The whole way down the Lupe stayed quiet and stopped asking any more questions.
I lightly landed on the ground and dropped the Lupe carefully in front of a tunnel that seemed to lead to the grassy fields.

Thanks a lot! If you ever need anything you can always come by here!" Yaniih offered.

Yes, that would be nice," I whispered.

Here, take this with you so you'll be able to find me again!"
She shook off one of her tiny wristbands and handed it to me.

It's got my scent on it so now you just need someone with a good sense of smell!" she exclaimed.

Thank you, Yaniih. Maybe fate will allow us to meet again," I muttered.

Fate? Ok! Bye Lhoukas, hope to see you soon!"

I turned around and tried to smile, but it only ended up being a sad one. I lifted off the ground once again, changing course to the north.

I continued my struggle in the skies as the sun set and stars started to appear in the skies. My whole body was shaking as my energy began to run out. It had been a day since I last had any food or water and my body was very weak. I got closer and closer to the ground as I approached the Altadorian shores.
My body eventually met the ground as I collapsed onto my knees. I started gasping for air, breathing unevenly. I dropped Halkkyon on the sandy ground and I soon fell to the ground too.
I could hear the water slowly brush the shores very delicately. The moon started rising into the sky, the stars glowing like fire. As I slowly closed my eyes, I thought I saw a white figure come from the distance. I heard wood walking on the sand and soon, I fainted from exhaustion.

My dream was one of horror. My mind couldn't forget what happened on that terrible night. But suddenly, it all stopped. I was in the middle of a gloomy forest, rain gently pouring on the ground and the sky stained with gray. I walked through the forest, but didn't feel wet. I eventually came into an open space where little trees grew. In the middle of the space I saw someone kneeling down, and crying.
It was a Shoyru, with a dark blue body and light blue hair. Her clothing was unusual, one that I couldn't recognize. I took a step forward, but something stopped my dream.

Lhoukas!" I heard a voice say.

I opened my eyes as I woke up from my dream and felt Halkkyon's thick muzzle nudge me on the side. I wearily turned and saw him sitting besides me, completely unharmed.

Halkkyon, you're unhurt?" I asked.

Yes, someone healed me," he meowed.

Healed you? Who?"

Halkkyon gave me a soft smile as he stepped aside. Before my eyes, I saw a white Ixi quietly sitting a few steps away from Halkkyon. The right part of her face was completely covered by her hair and she carried several tan marking around her bright red eyes. She wore a leather necklace around her neck, adorned with striped white and tan feathers and black beads. Her hooves were wooden, and were probably the source of sound I heard before fainting.

She slowly trotted towards me with her head held up high.

You are Lhoukas Bijou, no?" she asked. I quickly sat up with a startled feeling as she asked me that question.

Yes, I am. How do you know?" I bitterly replied.

Ah, an oracle foresaw your arrival to this beach. I am very sorry for what you have gone through," she replied.

As I struggled to stand on my feet, I saw the Ixi nudge something towards me.

I'm Odocelia, an oracle and a healer. Rub these herbs onto your wings and muscles to soothe the pain," she whispered.

I slowly walked up to her and picked up the herbs. As I began crushing them onto my skin, she brought even more herbs with her.

Eat these herbs to soothe your hunger." she advised. "Take a shortcut around Shenkuu and travel around the borders of the Haunted Woods. Go around Neopia Central and towards the shores of Brightvale and Meridell. There are a few small pieces of land and islands around there that no one inhabits. If you need to, continue to travel north to stay away from any danger."

I swallowed the bitter-tasting herbs as Odocelia began walking away.

Why are you telling me this?" I inquired.

Odocelia turned her heads towards me as she kept walking.

For your own safety. Even though the future is filled with bitterness right now, you will soon find happiness. So wait, and it will eventually come," she uttered.

Soon, she was out of sight and she was completely gone.

Lhoukas, do we follow her advice?" Halkkyon muttered.

What else can we do now, Halkkyon? You are the only family I have left. We will head north, away from here and keep wandering until we find the happiness Odocelia told us," I said.

Halkkyon nodded in agreement, as we continued our way north.

Another five years had passed, as Halkkyon and me continued to wander.
I had grown to be 21 while Halkkyon was 24 and still very young. Today, a daily stroll through the Meridellian fields would be much more unique than any other.

I noticed Halkkyon had stopped in the middle of the grassy fields to smell the air. Halkkyon, is something wrong?

Something's comin', he warned.

What is coming Halkkyon? I asked worriedly.

The wind's pace on the fields picked up, making a very quiet whistle before dying down. My eyes widened as I heard a similar wood-clicking sound against the ground. I turned to see an albino Ixi, her bright red eyes focused on mine.

I took a step forward. Odocelia?

Yes, that would be me, she replied.

What brings you here?

Odocelia beckoned Halkkyon and me with a turn of her head.

Come, I must show you something.

Before I could speak, Odocelia turned and started walking away. I assumed this would do no harm, so I simply walked after her, Halkkyon padding at my side.

We traveled through the grassy fields, until a forest started to come into view. We came to a stop as the entrance to the forest was only a few steps away.

Only the Shoyru comes with me, Odocelia put in bluntly.

Halkkyon let out an annoyed sigh. Fine. I'll wait for you here, Lhouk.

I lightly gave Halkkyon a nod before following Odocelia, who was already padding down the forest's trail.
The forest was quite beautiful; more appealing than the endless sand dunes in the Lost Desert. The branches were covered in thick green leaves and the colours were bright with the sun's filtered sunshine.
I felt Odocelia's heavy white pelt brush against me as we came to a stop. I shifted my gaze away from the trees to look what was up ahead.

Do you see it? Odocelia asked.

A shining pond of water lied ahead, a very light fog covering its surface.

Odocelia padded closer to the pond. Come, I will tell you your future.

I didn't want to disturb Odocelia's train of thought; I stepped forward and looked down at the pond. The pond was a shining still sheet of water. I saw nothing but my own reflection; was only Odocelia able to see what really lied on the pond's surface?
Odocelia bowed her snout closer to the pond's surface, lightly touching the still surface with the tip of her nose. Ripples slowly broke through the surface as Odocelia looked down at the pond. Her eyes remained fixed on the surface, as if she were watching something, even though my eyes could see nothing.
A few minutes went by, which seemed like hours as I stood idly beside Odocelia. I was startled as Odocelia suddenly let out a snort. I looked down at her, her eyes carried a satisfied expression.

Lhoukas, your future seems very bright, she whispered.

I narrowed my eyes at her. What did you see?

Your future! If it relieves you, the assassin isn't looking for you.

My muscles tensed as Odocelia mentioned the assassin. I would never want to see that cursed killer ever again.
Odocelia calmly sat down, her wooden hooves clicking against the forest floor.

You must go look for that girl, Aurafe, she murmured.

My gaze stayed fixed on Odocelia's demanding red eyes. Who was this Aurafe she talked about?

Odocelia let out a frustrated sigh. You probably don't know what I'm talking about. Aurafe is that Shoyru you met all those years ago. Don't you remember?

My mouth opened to speak, but no words came out. Aurafe. That was her name.

If you want your path to become clear, find her. She's usually in the very high skies around the islands near Mystery Island. From there, go find the striped Lupe you rescued from the mountains. Go to her for help.

All these sudden words were overwhelming my thoughts. When Odocelia mentioned a striped Lupe, she probably meant that pup I carried down the mountain when I was a kid. We would have no trouble finding her since Halkkyon probably remembers at least what her scent smells like.

Well? What are you waiting for? Odocelia snapped. You have to go now, before it's too late.

I gave Odocelia an appreciative bow before speaking, but I was once again interrupted by her words.

No need to thank me, I was merely doing my duty. She stood on her hooves and started walking away. Try to keep a low profile, Lhoukas. Leave Aurafe and Halkkyon at the Lupe's home, and then try to stay away from them for a while. Only for about a week though; just to make sure they are completely safe. Besides, if you find a guardian, you'll be completely safe.

I let out a relaxed sigh as Odocelia disappeared into the depths of the forest. A guardian is usually someone who watches over others; something like an owner.
I looked back at the pond and saw that its misty glow had disappeared. I looked down and saw nothing but my own flat reflection.

I was slowly flying up into the skies, searching in the place that Odocelia told me I would find Aurafe in. The clouds brushed past my skin and the air started getting thinner, causing my breathing to turn into panting. As I felt another cloud brush against my skin, I felt something different about it.
I stopped in mid-air, trying to keep myself from falling down by flapping my tired wings. I ran my hand across a cloud, and found it to be harder than usual. In fact, it was hard enough to stand on. I flew up until I towered over the cloud and then slowly set my foot on its surface.
As I finished landing, I was surprised to find this cloud very sturdy, at least sturdy enough to hold my weight. I smoothly sat down and folded my wings back. I'd never flown this high up before and the air conditions were taking its toll on my body.
Suddenly, I heard a soft whistling sound of wind. Something was moving in between the clouds. I looked down from where I was sitting and saw someone was flying below.

It was Aurafe.

She was slowly gliding in the air, looking down at the vast ocean below. She had changed from when we last met, all those years ago. Her hair had become long and glossy; the scar on her wing was painful to look at as it stood out of her dark blue skin. She probably had problems flying ever since her wing webbing was cut.
I found myself gazing down at her for short moments that seemed to last forever. Somehow, there was something about her that made my eyes not wanting to look away. I never wanted to admit it at the time, but I truly thought she was beautiful. Finally, the courage came to speak words to her.

I relaxed my wings and gazed down at her face. Well, it seems individuals do not change much in five years. Am I right, Aurafe?

My words startled her right away, making her turn around quickly and her hair whipping against hair soft face. Her icy eyes were filled with deep panic. I had hoped she remembered me from all those years ago.

Why the puzzled expression? I started. Have you forgotten me, Aurafe?

I saw her eyes relax a bit as she gazed at me for a few heartbeats.

I relaxed as I heard her sweet voice. Lhoukas? Why are you here?

It seemed she remembered my name, but how could I explain my intentions?

Well, I'm glad you remembered my name. Very well, if you want to know why I am here, I will tell you. I swallowed quietly as I laid out the next words in my mind. I wanted Aurafe to understand my request. Aurafe, I am here because of you, I want you to come with me.

Aurafe stumbled back at the sound of my request. Me?…

Yes, let me explain. I took a deep breath and softly rested my gaze on her cold eyes. "I rescued you from a certain death because I did not want your clan to hurt you or use you. I came here today because I want to keep you safe. Will you, Aurafe?"

Aurafe didn't seem to like my offer. Her eyes widened in fear, and I could see that her smooth lips were quivering. She probably didn't know that if someone from the Minuit clan found her, they'd bring her back and kill her for sure.

Aurafe, you have to understand that you are not safe all by yourself; even though you don't know it, your clan can take you back whenever they wish.

As I finished speaking, Aurafe turned and started gliding away. I swiftly stood up on the cloud and would follow her if it were necessary.

Suddenly, I noticed something was wrong with her. As she spread out her wings to fly, her scarred wing folded too quickly and gave a small jerking motion. Her wing had frozen in a cramp. I heard a small gasp from Aurafe as she looked back at her wing. Both of her wings stopped moving and she started to fall down, her wings useless and dragging back in the air.

My eyes widened and I immediately dove down to reach for her. I stretched out my hand and grabbed her by the elbow. My free hand grabbed her other elbow and I quickly wrapped my arms around her to stop her falling completely.
I panted from the physical toll that move had made on my wings. I wasn't strong enough to be holding someone my same size and weight, but I would as long as it meant keeping Aurafe safe.
I looked down at her and saw that her eyes were slowly opening again. Her gaze was soon locked onto my eyes, her pale eyes filled with despair. I let out a worried sigh as I shut my eyes. I lowered my head closer to her face until my cheek was only a centimeter away from hers. I tried to make my voice sound as comforting as possible.

You know, Aurafe, you might be the most stubborn girl I have ever met. You have to understand that you do not have to isolate yourself to keep away from harm. The mind can be a very fragile object, do your best not to break it.

I held her close with my left arm while I used my right hand to reach inside my vest. I took out the silver hairpin Kaline had given me so many years ago. I hadn't taken it out from there in a while; but now I definitely knew who to give it to.
I brushed the pale blue hair that covered Aurafe's face away with my hand. I delicately ran my fingers into her hair and clicked the hairpin into place. I looked at her eyes and saw they were slowly closing with weariness. I could feel that her body was fairly skinny, too skinny for someone her height. I bit down on my lips as I cursed myself for her condition. If I had taken her with me when I first found her, she wouldn't be like this.

I am such a fool.

I caught Aurafe slowly drifting off to sleep, a very small but noticeable smile formed on her face. She was truly happy. Even though she probably wasn't able to hear me, I whispered a few last words to her.

I'm sorry Aurafe, I'll take you somewhere safe.

I slowly descended closer to the ground and I could see the shores appearing down below. A pale moon was rising in the sky, a few stars appearing in the sky.
I looked down at Aurafe again. Hopefully that she was now with me, she would be completely safe. My feet lightly landed on the beach's soft surface as I carefully laid Aurafe on the ground. I knelt besides her, pushing her pale blue hair away from her closed eyes.

A light rustling sound emerged from the woods behind me and I soon saw a blur of yellow fur jump out.

I stood up on my feet. Halkkyon. Have you found her yet?

Yeah, she's somewhere on the island, Halkkyon panted.

Halkkyon's gaze rested on Aurafe's body.

So, this is her?

I looked at Halkkyon and then rested my gaze again on Aurafe.

Yes, this is her.

Halkkyon flicked his tail back and forth as if he were amused.

I never thought you'd end up fallin' for a Minuit.

Oh? I scoffed.

A mocking smile spread across Halkkyon's face, his whiskers twitching in amusement. He padded closer to Aurafe and sniffed the air around her. He softly sat down with his tail curled around his paws.

Her scent smells of death, he whispered.

I clenched my fists as Halkkyon spoke so calmly.

What do you mean?

Halkkyon stayed quiet for a few moments, his massive body towering over Aurafe. He had gotten quiet large over the years; when standing on his hind legs he would be taller than me.

She's killed before, but it wasn't her intention.

I sighed and tried to change the subject.

Have you talked to the Lupess yet?

Yeah, Halkkyon muttered. Her name's Yaniih. She says you're welcome to come anytime. Err…and she seemed overly friendly with me. Are ya sure she's the right one?

I laughed quietly on the inside. It seemed that Yaniih hadn't changed at all.

She's the one.

Even though it seemed forever for it to take place, I had finally found peace. I knelt besides Aurafe again and carried her between my arms.

I stepped away from the shore with Halkkyon by my side. Let's go then, Halkkyon.