Cold Wolfe

 

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Chapter 1: Of dreams and Nightmares

Gold and blue light pulsed and mingled, its colors intertwining like lovers. A young girl stood lone in an empty field all except these two auras that danced before her, as she watched closer the pulses seemed almost a language that seemed both foreign and familiar.Thin tethers of light reaching out in rhythmic motions, each wave like the enunciation of a word. As she focused harder the pulses and hum became louder and then came the voices, it was so clear she wasn't sure how she didn't understand from the beginning.

 

“She still does not let me in Cahir, I have tried. It's like a barrier that keeps me out and if I do somehow breakthrough I am expelled and my existence erased from her thoughts." She said, her pale blue Aura fluctuating like the variable stars the girl had once read about. 

 

“These youth are just getting stronger in will with every century, the boy is no better." Came the voice of Cahir, his tone felt rich and deep like the way thunder reverberated your chest.

 

The girl stood staring watching the two auras exchanging words, but as she did her mouth fell agape in awe as the two began to implode upon themselves. The bright flash caused her to shield her eyes and when she looked again the vague light was gone and the forms of two great wolves stood before her. Never had the girl seen such majestic beings, even the paintings she had seen could not do these creatures justice. The first stood an impressive seven foot high from paws to ear tips, his fur as blank and shiny as a fresh inkwell. The other stood between five and six feet, the girl realized as she looked at the white fur, she had never known it could look so bright and pure.

“I'm telling you something is wrong, there is a darkness here, a stench. I need you to get the boy here, she needs to be protected and I can't do it if I am being locked out,” She said, her voice reminded the girl of the wind.

 

“Eri, I will do what I can but ever since what happened to the boys brother he hasn't been the same. I've relayed our conversations with him but he says he wants nothing to do with the girl or that place,” Cahir said, his voice seemed laden with sorrow.

The girl felt like she was in a trance, slowly she felt her feet pulling her towards the two figures. They seemed to be drawing her in like a moth to a flame and they seemed none the wiser as move close enough that she could make out the white wolfs eyes that looked like a raging ocean. Cahirs brought warmth to the girl, as she gazed into the molten gold orbs they reminded her of watching the arms master crafting blades.

“It's his destiny and its high time he accepts it, I understand the boy has been through alot but so has the girl. At least he knew family and the warmth a mothers arms held, the girl will never know that,” Eri spat, her tone like a winter chill.

“I will try, maybe we can get through to her,” Cahir said turning to look at the girl. His eyes grew wide and his mouth nearly fell open as he watched the girl enclose her fingers in Eri's white fur. They had been so deep in conversation they didn't notice the girls feather light steps bringing her ever so close.

Eri turned her ocean blue eyes on the girl, their color a reflection of the girls. “Arianna…” she whispered and as she did the wolfs form wavered before imploding once more. Where the wolf Eri once stood now was a beautiful woman, her hair fell in white tumbles down her back and the girl found strands now lay entangled in her thin fingers.

 

Arianna stared wide eyed up at the woman, it seemed strange. It was like looking at herself but not herself. She felt this being was who she somehow was always meant to be, strong and beautiful but she knew that was not who she was. Eri's hand reached out and touched the girls face, a gentle smile on her lips as she did so. As soon as contact was made the screamed out in pain, her hands dropping the strands of silken hair and moved to clasp her head. Her breath came in short painful rasps as her brain felt like it being stabbed with a fire poker, she closed her eyes against the pain. She tried to focus on her breathing, in and out. Slow and steady. 

        When she opened her eyes she found herself sitting up alone in her bed, her clothes and sheets soaked through with sweat. She looked around confused, her head hurt and he chest ached and she felt like she was forgetting something. What was I doing just now? she thought to herself, her hand cradling her still throbbing head. She rolled her head round to loosen the muscles that felt tense before standing to strip the bed and change both the sheets and her bed clothes, the sweat had already chilled and felt sickening against her skin. Exhausted Arianna crawled back in bed, dawn was still a few hours out and she felt more tired then when she had first laid down earlier that evening.

          The rest of the evening went uneventful, she slept peaceful and woke up feeling a bit groggy but that seemed to be how her mornings were going lately. She had brought it up to Sister Viera a month back, even telling her about the cold sweats she woke up in but was assured all was well. Sister Viera told her it was just her body adjusting to the onset of womanhood that was around the corner and as Arianna was no expert on the subject sighed and decided to make do. She was given extra sheets daily incase she needed them, which she did and was given a tonic every night that was supposed to help her sleep better. It did not, if anything she felt worse and tasted terrible but Sister Viera watched her take it every night before lights out so what else could she do.

With heavy steps Arrianna pulled herself from the bed and stripped down and moved to her drawn basin of water to rinse the evenings grim from her skin. The cool rag felt good against her skin, she always felt so hot when she awoke, almost fevered but after an hour or so the heat would subside and she would feel normal. Well normal for her, she learned long ago that compared to everyone else in this place she would never be normal by their standards. She tried to blend in, make friends but when you have a freak label embossed on your forehead it was hard. 

She put away the basin and rag and dressed quickly, a light white tunic was donned over her camisole and black training pants. She braided her hair into a single platinum cord and after slipping into her boots made for the courtyard. She found that running first thing in the morning, especially after a rough night of sleep she felt more energized. As she made her way through the empty halls she wasn't surprised to find the silhouette of a curvy wild haired female waiting at the end of the Arch that led to the courtyard. She sighed, the smallest of a smile trying to tug at the corners of her mouth. 

“Good morning Jane,” She said to as she approached the older girl with fire red hair.

 

“Good morning Arry, off for your morning run?” Jane asked but her question seemed more a statement. “I don't know where you find that energy, I only come out here so you don't feel alone.”
 

“Oh, is that why you come out here, I thought it might have something to do with that,” Arrianna said nodding in the direction of metal on metal clacking and tinging together. 
 

In the center of the courtyard two young men of twenty were sparring, both with strong builds, one had sandy blonde hair while the other had auburn curls. They moved as if they were shadows of eachother, their moves as fluid as water as they sparred back and forth. The twins had been training together almost as long as they had been walking, while their faces looked like mirror images their fighting styles were complete opposites. Raiken, the Auburn hair twin favored daggers, he liked the speed they offered as well as defense. Jaeger who was just slighter heavier preferred the feel of his greatsword, his mindset was strength could win over speed. Arianna always thought it funny that the seemed to purposely choose opposites and sparred every day to prove which was superior, to date they were in a draw as they only stopped when both were exhausted or their father forced an end to their matches. 
 

“Well that is just, that is…okay that's definitely a plus. Watching you run circles isn't exactly attention grabbing, that though…” she said smiling over at the twins, her eyes lingering more on one that the other. “That is a view a girl would jump out of bed for.”
 

“What ever, they are talented swordsman but I can take them both and not break as much sweat as I am about to so,” and with that Arianna took to her laps. The rising sun painting the sky and slowly lighting up the courtyard and the tiny drops of dew like glass beads. Every lap bringing more clarity to her, the aches and pains from the night before draining away until she felt fresh and invigorated. As she rounded for her next lap she spotted Jane waving at her, indicating it time to head in for breakfast and then class. Arianna always felt nauseous when it came to piling into a room with the other students, especially since she wasn't technically a student yet. The headmaster and teachers just allowed her to sit in as long as she sat quietly in the back, it had been ten years since her first sit in and soon she would get to participate in her first class. Just a few weeks away was her birthday which mean start of a new term, new students and her first day getting to be equal to those she sat in a room with.
 

“I hate these last few weeks,” whined Jane as she poked the grey mass in her bowl. 
 

“You just don't like taking tests because you never study, you've survived the finals last year." Arrianna said quickly eating her oatmeal, the slower you ate the more it seemed to become a solid mass.
 

“Barely, this year is harder. I'm supposed to remember all that history and bosh while still mastering the ka points,” she blurted, her face pink in frustration.
 

“Bosh?” Arrianna asked with a raised brow. 

 

“Crap, nonsense, whatever you high and mighties call it. Eat your grey goo, I don't want to be late,” The girls finshed quickly and headed of for the first lesson of the day. 

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Chapter 2; Finally Finals

 

Arrianna and Jane moved into the classroom and waved as they separated, Jane went to her desk that sat neatly rowed next to all the others while Arrianna went off to the corner where a chair sat. There were times when she was younger she sneak into the empty classrooms just to see what it felt like to sit behind the desks. She found it disappointing, maybe it was because the desk wasn't hers and she knew it. Arrianna reached under the chair and pulled out her dishelved journal, the pages were bursting from the binding as she had shoved loose pieces of paper in between. The book itself had long since been filled but when she learned anything new or of interest she had to write it down, her world was within these walls the knowledge she learned about everything outside of it happened in this room. 

 

A slight rustle drew Arrianna's attention and she glanced up to spot the small elderly professor scanning her ragged collection. He smiled as he looked up at her, his eyes a stormy grey and the only part of him the radiated youth.

 

“I think that poor thing is nearly the end my dear,” he said, his voice like a thick fog. 

 

“Good morning Professior Amist,” She said smiling up at him, her hands resting protectively on her treasure. “It can hold a few more pages, I am sure of it.”

 

“Very well, I look forward to having you as a pupil soon.” he said heading down towards the front of the class. “If only all my students were as enthusiastic as you in obtaining knowledge.” 

 

The classed sighed almost in unison while some glared back at Arianna, Jane glanced back and smiled awkwardly and then class commenced. Lessons consisted of covering everything they had learned previously, some scribbled away as Professior Amist spoke, some seemed to stare of into nothing while others slept. Arianna never understood how anyone could fall asleep when their was so much to learn. Even after years of listening to the same lessons she still found herself learning something new after each retelling. At first Arianna was shocked that she could miss such information the first time but after her third cycle of classes she realized that the professor added new bits for her. He was her favorite teacher, despite his small stature he seemed to have an aura about him that made others listen but still a few would arrive that showed they couldn't make the cut.

 

The class seemed to end as quickly as it began and the students moved on to their next classes and Arrianna moved behind like a shadow. She always made her way to the lone chair that would await her in the corner, always an over filled journal waiting for just one more page of knowledge. The days passed and then weeks and then it was Finals. Jane became someone different in these last days, Arianna found it a mystery to see the older girl change so much. Her usual fire man was pulled back and wrapped into a bun and her bright green eyes hidden behind a pair of glasses. The usually chatty girl became quiet and focused as she poured over her notes that morning, Arrianna ate her breakfast quietly and watched. Finals felt different last year then all the years before and she knew it would feel different this time too. It was the only time she wasn't allowed to sit in on the classrooms and it was also the only time she had to be away from Jane.

 

The girls bid farewell for the day as Jane would be busy taking her tests and Arrianna made for the courtyard, she smiled and waved as the twins paused their sparring match at her approach. She envied them, they always had each other. When she was a small girl, up until she was five she had lived with them and their parents, she was so young that is seemed almost like a dream. The boys still doted on her but as they all grew older it felt different, their father was the Arms Master and was a kind but hard man. Their mother was a blur to her, all she could really recall was the scent of lavender and her blue green eyes, the same eyes the twins now looked at her with.

 

“Here to get your tail kicked?” Jaegar jested to Arrianna.

 

“The both of you together couldn't take me,” Arrianna shot back, a smile playing at her lips.

 

“That is only when using Ka, you know full well without it we'd have the match done in under a minute,” Raiken replied.

 

“Well maybe you should do better with you Ka forms, its not my fault you both can't keep up,” she teased heading over to the weapons room.

 

“Just hurry up will you, and no staff this time. Dad says you need to practice with the other weapons too, ” Raikan called to her, he could hear a sigh and thud which meant she had indeed went for the quarterstaff.

 

“Fine,” she replied as stared over the array of weapons. She had trained with all of them for years, but there was something about the way the staff allowed her to manipulate her Ka. She asked once and was told that wood was more porous and allowed Ka to flow easier which is why all first years trained with wooden replicas of the weapons. Her hand moved across the metal weapons, piercing, slashing, bludgeoning. Close quarters to reach weapons and even ranged. Bows were not good for sparring but she did enjoy the way they sung when an arrow was released. She didn't care for the heavy two handed weapons, while she knew how to increase her strength to wield them she felt it a loss to waste her Ka to simply be able to carry the things. Her hands slowed to the one handed blades and she picked up a rapier and short sword, she like the style difference the two had and the thickness in metal allowed her to channel into each differently.

 

“You in there forging the damned thing?” Jaeger called out, he had they tip of his greatsword in the ground and was resting his hands and chin on the hilt when she emerged.

 

“It wasn't that long, besides. Why do I have to practice with different weapons but you two get to stick to your favorites?” Arrianna asked as she made her way back to the center of the courtyard and readied herself against the brothers.

 

“Because they are idiots whose brains can not handle more than one mastery,” came a gruff voice behind her. “And if it pleases the young miss, I would prefer less whining.”

 

“Yes Master Arden,” she said in a fake singsong tone but her eyes sparkled as his rough calloused hands tousled the top of her head.

 

She never missed any of the lessons but when she was present with the other students she was treated invisible, aside from an occasional wink from the twins. It was during these private lessons that Arrianna felt that if she had known her father it might be like what she felt when he was near, a bit frustrated at times but an overwhelming sense to make him proud. As the Arms Master moved to one of the benches off to the side Arrianna re-aimed her focus on the brothers. They moved in unison like a hunting pack, Raiken staying a few steps out so that his brother could move in first.

 

Arrianna's eyes watched the two as they moved, Jaeger lunged forward with the tip of his greatsword leading the charge. Arrianna moved to the side with ease to dodge and brought her short sword up in time to parry an incoming dagger from Raiken, it was the same strategy they always used. Arrianna planted her foot squarely on Raiken and channeled her Ka in her soles as she pushed off, sending him tumbling backwards and her in a graceful arch over the greatsword that was swinging from behind.

 

“Dammit,” cursed Jaeger as he followed through his swing hitting only air. “How do you know where the attacks are coming from?”

 

“I can feel it, like a hum in the air. It makes my hairs raised up and I just know, its not that way with you guys?” Arrianna asked as she lightly landed on her feet, her blades still at the ready.

 

“No, not even a little bit like that. I mean, if we watch most people we can judge a foot shift or an eye flicker but not anything like what your describing.” replied Raiken standing up and dusting himself off.

 

“I don't know, maybe its because I have more control over my Ka,” she said bursting forward and swinging at Jaeger, his big weapon barely coming up in time to block the short sword but unable to parry the rapier as she slapped him across the ribs before disengaging. “Or maybe its because your as slow as a slug.”

 

Jaeger groaned and held his rib where is stung, he laughed but then stopped as it caused more pain. Raiken glanced over and laughed at his brothers misfortune, confident that this would be his match today. He slowly circled around Arrianna, her steps a mirror of his own and then the both came forward in a burst of speed. Metal on metal cried out as they struck and parried eachother, one strike after another causing the blades to cry out. Raiken took the initiative and pressed forward putting Arrianna on the defensive, or so he thought. Another step back and her blue eyes sparkled, the air seemed to get dry around them and Raiken crossed both blades up in time to catch the thundering strike of Arriannas short sword, the metal sparked from the impact and brought her opponent to a knee. Her rapier came to rest against his cheek and she gave it a gentle flick, a thin red line appearing where the blade retreated. She smiled and looked back at the Arms Master who was clapping, he stood and glanced down at his stop watch.

 

“A new record, have you been practicing alone?” he asked.

 

“No, I don't have that much time between lessons and then curfew.” She said. “I only get a little time in the mornings or an hour or two with the twins after dinner usually.”

 

“At this rate I don't think we have much else to teach you, if your able to channel your Ka that effortlessly even in a metal blade than you have exceeded graduation standards.” He said ruffling her hair once more.

 

“If I could train with you I know I could learn something new,” She said beaming up at him.

 

“The old man couldn't handle you,” Jaeger jested.

 

“Yeah, that tree would put up more of a fight,” Raiken chimed in, both of them laughing.

 

“This old man still has enough in him to handle the likes of you,” he said springing forward to grapple Raiken and forcing him into a headlock.

 

“Your dad taught us everything we know, they don't just hand out the title Arms Master lightly,” Arrianna said seriously. 

 

“For the love of the Goddess, it was a joke.” replied Jaeger, as much as they loved the girl there seemed moments she didn't quite seem to get things. Well things like jokes or anger or frustration, even real happiness. They seen here smile on occasion, especially if the Professors or their dad complimented her but never any real strong emotions. They found it odd considering all the other girls in the academy were emotional bombs just waiting to go off in some form or another.

 

“I knew that,” she snapped and tossed her weapons at him. “I'm going to wash up and do some reading. You aren't any fun today.”

 

With that she offered a bow to Master Arden and the bows and headed back into the stone archway and then into the Academy entrance hall. The building had been the same for as long as she could remember, grey stone walls with only pictures of the gods and goddess donning the walls and then once you walked into the open main room you would find all the portraits of headmasters past. Arianna found this room odd, the headmasters always looked so grim and serious. Their eyes almost piercing her. 

 

With hurried steps she made her way to her room, she had been staying on the faculty side of the academy since she was six but while she was excited to begin officially studying it felt odd that her days in this room were numbered. Once the new term started she would have a room in the girls dormitory tower, which mean hell and high water wouldn't be able to keep Jane out. That annoyed her but at the same time piqued a strange emotion as well, maybe curiosity she thought. 

 

With an exhausted sigh she threw herself across her bed kicking her shoes off as she do, her body felt hot and heavy and her eyes seemed hard to keep open and then she was asleep.

 

As she slipped deeper and deeper she felt this tug, she fought it at first as the touch seemed to cause her pain. The more she fought against it the more pain she felt until finally she gave way to a hand reaching out for her, her pale fingers reaching out and intertwining with rough tan fingers. It seemed odd as she knew she was dreaming but the touch felt so real, she could feel the heat of his skin almost burning against her own. She followed the hand up but where she expected to find a person she saw a golden silhouette, she couldn't make out details but saw an array or wild hair atop his head. She felt calm. Safe. Warm. She moved closer and allowed the golden arms to wrap around her, at first the form seemed taken aback but at her small form fell against his they merged. Just as she thought she could stay like this forever a pain struck her and she felt herself being snatched away, his hand reached out for her but missed. As she was ripped through her own subconcious she felt a part of her being ripped asunder and when she woke up she saw Sister Viera standing over her, her eyes wide.

 

“Are you okay, you were talking in your sleep,” she said shaking the shock from her face.

 

“I was?” she asked, her head throbbing and her chest aching. She tried to remember what she had been dreaming of but couldn't." I just, I remember feeling hot."

 

“Your soaked, I brought your tonic and something light for dinner. Go change first and I'll see to your bedding, now that I see the state your in its no wonder your having fitful sleep and sweating. Honestly, in what teachings does the Goddess condone such unhygienic behavior? ” Sister Viera scolded as she shooed her off and began to make quick work of the bed. Arrianna stepped behind her changing screen and stripped down and slipped into her nightgown before sitting down at the small table and chair in the corner that currently hosted a sandwich, fruit and the disgusting cup of warm tonic.

 

“I didn't mean to and don't do this everyday, I just got back from training and before I knew it I was asleep.” She replied before pinching her nose and forcing the tonic down first and the biting into an apple slice to remove the bitter taste.

 

Sister Viera nodded her approval at the medicine being drained before turning back to her task of making the bed. She gathered up the linens and made for the door.  

 

“Please just place those dishes outside the door when you are done, I will send someone by later to gather them. Maybe take a break from all the physical training? I think you might be over doing it. starting tonight you are on strict bed rest, no leaving your room until I think you are doing better. I will bring your meals, ahhh…not a word of complaint. If the Father knew that you were in this state it would be my hide, off to bed as soon as you are finished.” With that said she left the room and the thud of the door seemed to echo in her small room.

 

Arrianna ate as slow as possible and when she found she couldn't nibble her last apple slice anymore she placed it outside her door and crawled back into her bed. She use to hate lights out but these past few months she felt drained and a pull towards the bed. After a few moments she found herself drifting off back to sleep but this time no dreams found her. 

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Chapter 3; A starry nights Vision

         The morning light pierced through the dark gray drapes, the rays of sunlight highlighting dust particles as they danced through the air. Beams of light lowered across the room as the sun continued its rise, stirring Arrianna from her dreams as the light fell upon her pale eyelids. A long slender hand came up shielding her eyes as she sat up blinking away the drowsiness. The sun reflected off the mirror drawing her attention to it and the markings upon her forehead. Disappointment crept into the girl for nothing had changed, although she was unsure what she had expected to find. Today she turned sixteen and for a normal girl it seemed to excite frivolous thoughts, but she was not normal. It seemed a rather silly idea that a single year could bring about some monumental change, but she found a small part of herself hoping for something.
        “That is the last time I let Jane get to me with her idiotic rambling,” Arianna scoffed.
        Sliding her feet into sandals, Arianna crossed the room to her window for one thing; a small and well-worn praying altar. She succumbed to a sense of serenity, and a peaceful smile crossed her lips as she placed her knees into the kneeler that was molded to her form as a result from years of use. Slender fingers grasped the carafe and began distributing water into a small glass before replacing it and with a practiced hand retrieved and struck a fire stick to light a candle then disposed it into a metal cylinder on her right. Bringing her hands together, she began her prayers with her left hand open as she pressed its palm against her clenched right fist. She held this pose for a minute in silence before moving on to her mantra and offerings.
        “Praise Nualia mother of all, thanks be to you for granting this life and the responsibility is mine in caring for it,” she said bringing the glass to her lips and emptying the contents before returning it.
        “Praise Nualia keeper of all, thanks be to you for granting my soul one more day. Never shall I fear my death but instead consider it your will,” she said unfurling her clenched fist and hovering it above the flame which gently lapped at her palm as she extinguished it and then brought her hands back to starting pose
         “Now to join the masses, joy.”
        Merely two steps from the altar, her door burst open and a blur of auburn curls darted straight at her, her body felt constricted  as a curtain of red covered her face and threatened to be inhaled with every breath. Arianna’s face and ears burned as she untangled herself and stared at her invader, a young woman stood before her with wildfire hair arrayed all around her.
        “Happy birthday Arianna! I am so excited to have you down the hall now, It was dreadfully boring these last few days without you. ” the young woman said excitedly.
        Her eyes darted around the room until they fell on the drapes which were drawn together, with determined strides she walked across the room and threw them open. Turning on her heels she looked back at Arianna all the while still smiling, only as usual Arianna looked, bored? Annoyed? Angry? She found it hard to tell because she always wore the same expression.
        “Well, aren’t you excited?” she asked earnestly.
        Arianna’s eyes narrowed if only for a second.
 “What are you doing in my room, Jane?"
        “Today is the big day, what do you think I am here for? You weren't seriously going to start the new term like….that. Right?”
        Jane crossed the room and placed her hands on Arianna’s shoulders and steered her to the chair at the small desk. With a resigned sigh, Arianna allowed herself to be seated knowing it was faster to let this woman do as she pleased rather than to argue. With quick and steady hands, Jane began running her fingers through Arianna’s spider silk hair twisting and pulling it into a braid and then wrapping it around the girls crown and back behind, pinning it at the nape of her neck.
        “Now, close your eyes…”
        Arianna closed her eyes; small warm hands touched her face and then a cool stroke glided across both her eye lids. With a satisfied smile, Jane removed a small hand mirror and held it before the girl’s face.
        “You can open your eyes now.”
        Arianna opened her eyes and gazed at the image before her, and she found herself at a loss for words as she looked between her reflection and up at Jane, her cheeks deepening in shade.
        “I…I… What…” Arianna stumbled trying to find the right words for her thought. Then with a whisper she added “It doesn't look bad.”
        Jane tucked the mirror away and leveled her face just inches from Arianna’s. Her smile looked as if it may consume her entire face.
        “You're welcome, today is a big day after all!”

“Could you please stop saying that?” Arrianna asked.
        Jane reached down grasped Arianna’s hands and pulled the girl to her feet, then darted off to the door pulling a parcel from the corner and placing it in Arianna’s hands.
        “Your gift, let's try it on,” she said as she turned to shut the door.
        Arianna’s hand caressed the course hemp material and her fingers wrapped around the string keeping it closed. With a small smile she pulled the cord loose and lifted away the covering to reveal more inside. As the hemp slipped away, Arianna’s eyes noticed a soft, blue cotton gown with a small golden rope belt and beneath it a cloak of deep gold. Her fingers grazed the material and her eyes met Jane's, and Arianna knew Jane was waiting for something, but she was unsure of what. Arianna saw Jane's face soften, her eyes seemed to fill up with moisture as she reached into her bag and handed Arianna a handkerchief. This action caused confusion to wrinkle the girl’s brow until she felt an odd sensation run down her left cheek. Arianna's fingers felt cool as they ran up her warm cheek and when she pulled them back they were wet.
        "What is this? What is wrong with me?” Arianna asked in a nervous ramble.
        “I think, you are happy,” she said as she took the clothes from the girl and laid them across the bed.
        “Let’s see how this fits,” Jane said, clearing the emotion from her throat.
        The gown fit her frame differently than her old gray one, for one it wasn't two sizes too large. The golden belt was tied at the small of her waist and when she shrugged the cloak on, it felt as if it had been made just for her. The rich cloak brought out the warmth in her pale hair while the soft blue of the dress brought a glow to her skin and a brightness to her eyes.
        “I look so…different...”
        “You look beautiful, you need to stop hiding, come it's time for breakfast.”
        Jane headed for the door and with a look back saw Arianna was going to need a few minutes and went ahead without her.
        Arianna nodded in reply to Jane, but felt herself transfixed in front of her mirror for the first time. Looking around, she realized Jane had left without her. Normally, this would have pleased her, but this time she felt an odd pang that confused her, she shook it off as hunger and darted off to the cafeteria.
        Her feet carried her down a long corridor with dark stained floors and gray walls, portraits of the heads of the monastery past and present lined the walls as well as several murals of Nualia. Arianna reached the end of the hall, made a right and then the third left which opened up into a large room lined with three by six tables and matching benches. The cafeteria was nearing empty as Arianna walked in, but with every step she felt the eyes of those that remained following her and whispers too soft to hear. She had been used to attention as far back as she could remember, but this was different and made her feel uncomfortable.
        Her eyes found Jane who was waving her over, two servings of oatmeal and fruit already on the table. Arianna hurried her step just below a run nearly diving onto the bench and burying her face in her food. Jane looked over Arianna’s bent head to the onlookers and felt a protective pride as she took in the sea of faces, all coming in closer. When she had finished her oatmeal, Arianna found herself surrounded by several of her peers, all of which she recognized as second years.
         “Eish! Arianna, is that really you?” a young man with eyes of caramel asked, his accent still heavy with his island dialect.
        A delicate hand ran fingers through Arianna's hair, as she followed it up she found it belonged to a girl with strawberry blonde waves, Clare.
        “I never noticed how pretty your hair is,” her tone cold as her eyes met Arianna's.
        Arianna's eyes narrowed like arrow slits as she deftly pushed Clare's hand away.
        "Thank you.”Arrianna offered and awkward smile and nod before standing and heading for the exit.
        An odd sound caught Arianna's attention and when she glanced back, she saw Jane's face red and a trembling hand covering her mouth.
        “Are you…”
        Before she could finish, Jane had burst into laughter, not the normal quiet and polite laughter but the kind of laughter that left a person breathless, ribs aching, eyes watering to the point that the laugh is just a series of odd sounds.
        “What in Taerha is wrong with you?”
        Jane took a few unsteady breaths trying to calm herself, and a full minute passed before she was able to speak.
        “Not, a, single, thing. Better hurry to the hall before we miss the good seats,” Jane said, trying to keep her laughter from rising again
        When they finally made it into the Assembly Hall, an eerie hush fell over the students as they turned to gape at Arianna, this many whispers together made for a loud buzzing sound that was quickly quieted by the thumping of a staff. Arianna had a seat reserved courtesy of Father Zebadiah, he had thought it important she be in view of both new comers as well as those leaving and with heavy reluctance from the Father, Jane had a seat as well. Once seated Father Zebadiah nodded to a robed man and woman, they opened the double doors to let in the group of people who had been waiting just on the other side, and one by one people filed in, both young and old. The Entrance Ceremony was held every year to both introduce the new students as well as to celebrate the ones who were leaving and entering society. Arianna’s eyes followed each person as they went to the podium, shook the Father's hand and gave a brief introduction of themselves.
        Jenny was first, a young woman with light brown hair cut off above the shoulders, the edges jagged and uneven, next was an older man with sharp eyes who introduced himself as Saris, his hope was that he could be of help to his local clergy. Arianna felt boredom set in as each new face came up, it always seemed like the same people somehow, their similar stories and reasons for turning to Nualia, mostly they were accepting that she was the one whom decided a person’s time.
        Arianna felt an odd sensation like a deer being preyed upon, her eyes fell onto a young man no older than twenty with messy black hair, his eyes like molten gold. Her eyes followed him to the podium where he shook the Father's hand, but when he turned to introduce himself his eyes locked with hers and he flashed a wolfish smile. Arianna's breath caught in her chest and her body broke into a sweat.
        "Killian Plights the name, but you may call me whatever you like, Princess."
        A hand reached over and grabbed her’s issuing a squeeze. She looked over to see Jane looking at her with piqued interest, Arianna pulled her hand back and looked away trying to focus on anything except whatever was happening to her, she looked up at the Father and tried to relay that she wasn't feeling well. Father Zebadiah’s eyes met hers and he nodded his approval, Arianna quickly retreated but glanced back at Killian Plight who grinned once more. Her body seemed to be in flight mode as her lithe form sped out of the Assembly hall, her heart pounded against her chest until she was safely on the other side of her bedroom door with her back against the cold wood, she headed to her bed and collapsed into the unmade sheets.
        I forgot to make my bed, I don’t think I’ve ever forgotten to make it. Her mind and thoughts grasping at something anything, and in a matter a minutes she was asleep.
        Arianna woke late evening to a knock at the door.
        That’s not Jane, I doubt she even knows how to knock.
        She crossed the room, opened the door and was met with tall and stern-faced Sister Vieira who gave a slight bow.
        “Sorry to wake you, but Father Zebadiah was concerned, and he asked that I look in on you,” Sister Vieira’s said, her eyes looking from Arianna’s face to her hair.
        “I am sorry to have concerned you Sister. I am feeling better now so I will get cleaned up and be down for dinner.”
        Arianna and Sister Vieira exchanged another set of bows before the door was shut, leaving Arianna sapped.
        "What in the name of the goddess is going on with me today? Forgetting to make the bed? I thought Id gotten over whatever exhaustion had been plaguing me as well."
        Arianna mumbled as she headed back to her bed and began smoothing it until it had even lines and a flat surface, and when she turned to the dresser to change her reflection startled her. She looked like a mad witch with wild knotted hair and coal smudged eyes. She allowed herself a quick amusement at the absurdness of it before she began the process of civilizing her appearance; her new blue dress was traded in for a black one which left her feeling more like herself, but she found she missed the feel of the soft cotton on her skin.
        Arianna's feet moved of their volition as she left her room and headed down the hall to the cafeteria, she scanned the sea of faces searching for Jane’s plume of curls and spotted her across the way
        “Jane, sorry about earlier. I’m unsure what came over me,” Arianna said.
        Jane shook her head slowly causing her auburn waves to toss side to side.
        “Don’t be silly. Although you did put a slight hiccup in my plans, but fear not for I have recruited help,” Jane said turning her eyes back to in front of her.
        Arianna turned to the table in an attempt to understand what she meant. Killian was sitting at the table flashing his best smile, her heart clenched in her chest as he stood and circled the table. Killian stopped a mere foot from Arianna, his hand came up and brushed the hair from her forehead as he leaned his face in closer. His fingers were warm, so warm they almost burned.
        “So it is the little princess. You look, different.”
        Killian was close enough that Arianna smelled a faint cinnamon aroma as he spoke, his fingers moved from forehead to chin lifting her small face up to look into his, her face grew hot as she looked up into his eyes of smelted gold.
        “I hear it’s your birthday, Princess,” he said as he leaned in close and whispered “happy birthday.”
        Arianna took a step back and met his smoldering eyes with a frigid glare.
        “Stop calling me princess, my name is Arianna, but you may call me Lady Wolfe. Jane, why is he here?”
        Arianna’s voice wavered. In sixteen years she’d never fallen to so many emotions, but today they were unyielding. Jane looked up at Arianna and smiled apologetically.
        “He approached me about you, when he learned it was your birthday he insisted on being included. How could I say no, the more the merrier right? Besides, Chef Desden learned you’d fallen ill and after getting permission from Father Zebadiah they made you this.”
        Jane's hand gestured to a large chocolate cake with Arianna’s name scrolled across the top.
        “What am I supposed to do with that?” Arianna asked, her brows shooting up in surprise.
        “Why share it my dear girl, after all sixteen is big year," came a chalky soft voice from behind.
        Arianna turned to face Father Zebadiah who was flanked by the brothers and sisters of the monastery as well as the students, from the new to the old.
        “Today is the Lady Wolfe's birthday and to commemorate such a milestone we've gotten her  a gift,” Father Zebadiah said, his weathered hands extended to reveal a small package.
        “You didn’t need to do this,” Arianna said, a smile tugging at her lips.
        “You are like a daughter to many of us. We have watched you grow from babe, to a beautiful young woman. You wouldn’t deny an old man the pleasure of giving a gift to his only child would you?” he asked, his usual sharp eyes, soft and glinting.
        “Of course not Father, thank you.”
        Arianna took the small box and opened it. Inside was a bundled cloth with something hard wrapped within, but she couldn’t decipher what it was by feel alone. When she unwrapped it, her eyes grew large with shock as she peered down upon a pendant of silver encasing a two inch gem shaped like an over- sized tear and the same blue as her eyes.
        “Is this…you can’t mean to give this to me.”
        “It is only fitting that a young woman should have a necklace befitting of her beauty. I would clasp it upon your neck myself, but my fingers are not what they used to be. Brother Willum, if you’d be so kind.”
        “Of course Father. Lady Wolfe, if you’d turn around,” said Brother Willum taking the necklace and clasping the chain around her ivory skin.
        “My, isn’t that fancy.” said Killian.

“We have a gift too,”came the mischievous voice of the twins ringing out in unison.

Master Arden stepped forward and offered a roughly wrapped gift that at a glance could only be one thing, she smiled and she excepted the gift and peeled away the leather to reveal a quarterstaff. Her smile grew larger as she looked at the details etched delicatly into the wood.

“Thank you, its beautiful,” she said forgetting herself and hugging the Arms Master in-front of the whole student body.

Clearing his throat her gave her an awkward back pat and then pulled away, confused she looked up at him at saw the twins eyes flashing around. Arrianna glanced and saw the judgemental eyes of her peers almost staring through her.
        “Now I believe it is time for cake, Father," chimed in Sister Vieira.
        “Yes, we shall start with our birthday girl," said Father Zebadiah.
    Sister Vieira moved to the cake as the kitchen staff emerged with stakes of plates, Chef Desden led the charge with his large knife and made quick work of the cake. Sister Vieira smiled at Arianna as she handed her the first plate, the womans sharp features only looked more wicked with a smile, she nodded and took her piece before stepping out of the way. The piece of cake was large and the frosting thick, she was surprised how easily her fork glided through the dense cake, she held the chocolatey bite before her and assessed it before slowly popping it into her mouth. It was moist, rich an nearly melted in her mouth, her eyes closed as she savored the sweet flavor.
    "You act as if it's your first time eating things like this," came a silky voice behind her, the spiced scent of cinnamon filling her nostrils.
    Startled, Arianna began coughing on the cake she was chewing, bits of chocolate sprayed across the room which sent a small nearby group into a fit of laughter. Heat rose in the girls face as she spun around to glare at the young man behind her, Killian was grinning from ear to ear, icing was smeared at the corner of his mouth and chocolate decorated every space of his teeth. Swallowing hard, she forced the smile down that was creeping upon her. Killian grunted as the point of an elbow dug into his back, Jane was beaming over at Arianna as she pressed down on his back which sent the boy into an awkward boy.
    "It is her first time you dolt, you think cake is a common thing here?"
    "I just assumed that there was a cake every year, come on Princess, it's not really your first time....is it?"
    "So what if it is, what's so great about it anyway? It's to sweet, I'd be fine if I never had the stuff again."
    Jane and Killian glanced at each-other, Arianna's bluff easily seen through as she hesitantly placed the near whole piece of cake on the table. Jane released her hold on Killian and took a seat beside her and held up her fork, as she moved it closer to the slab on the table it was quickly snatched away, Arianna pulled the plate protectively to the opposite side of her.
    "Well...that doesn't mean I shouldn't eat this piece, I mean after all, the chef did make it for me. It's the least I can do, right?"
    The two burst into laughter and nodded as the young girl hastily consumed what remained of her dessert, her eyes grew larger with every bite. The cake seemed to go too fast and left her wanting more, her tongue glided across her lips as she licked the chocolate that coated them, but as the taste disappeared she found herself feeling empty and out of place. Arianna looked around at the crowd surrounding her and felt claustrophobic, she envied Jane whose smile and laughter seemed infectious. She slipped her way through the crowd believing she went unseen until she felt eyes on her. Looking up her made contact with a pair of molten gold  following her, an amused smile playing at his chocolate stained lips.
        This guy is going to be worse than Jane,  she thought as she continued out into the hall and in the direction of the assembly hall. This was the only thing about her birthday that she looked forward to; cleaning the hall on her own
        Arianna found herself trying not to quicken her step as she reached the storage closet. Inside was a small sink that was filled daily, a variety of buckets, rags, brushes, cleaners and along the walls were brooms, tools, mops, and a variety of other items she had yet to figure out. Arianna gathered a mop, broom, and bucket which she filled before turning to leave. Her feet picked up pace once they were pointed in the direction of the assembly hall again and moving quickly enough that the bucket began sloshing and threatening to spill its contents over the edge. Her footsteps slowed as she reached the vast double doors; two golden semicircles met in the center of the door to form a golden circle and two silver crescents  sat on either side facing in opposing directions.
        Arianna’s hand reached to her forehead touching the familiar shape. It had been sixteen years since the goddess marked her. Legend says that Lady Nualia only marks a favored soul when a great need arises, but there hadn’t been any extreme chaos since the last champion a thousand years ago when the Dark Magi had twisted magic to his own agenda.
        Taking a deep breath, Arianna shook her thoughts away and reached for the golden handles; they were cold and smooth against her skin as her fingers closed around the metal and swung the doors wide. Inside, the room seemed to be transformed from the cramped room it had been a few hours ago into a black, glossy sea. The floor seemed an eerie abyss that would consume you if you walked upon its surface. With a slow and confident stride, Arianna stepped to the center of the room; the moon was on the rise outside the opened windows, and its pale light poured into the room catching small gold etchings in the black floor. Looking around, Arianna found her breath caught in her throat just as it had done the first time she witnessed this view; the black sea had been transformed into the night sky, it was like walking among the stars, the closest any person would ever come to it. Arianna was lost to this midnight sea, her body so relaxed and her eyes transfixed, that she didn’t notice someone slip in.
        A sound rang out from behind startling her as it echoed out across the empty room. Looking for the source of the sound, she spotted her bucket on the floor and a figure standing just beside it. Her eyes followed up to a set of eyes that reflected the moonlight back like a nighttime beast on the hunt. Killian's wolfish smile grew as he closed the gap between them causing her heart to beat so hard it resounded in her ears.
        “So this is where the Princess has run off to. Quite the view you here all to yourself,” Killian said with his arms outstretched.
        “No one is permitted in here today except me…AND STOP CALLING ME PRINCESS.”
        Arianna felt out of breath; her chest was rising and falling heavily as her face grew hot. Her body betraying her as her strength drained away. Her heart beat fiercely as if it would leap from it's cage.
        Arianna felt as if the floor suddenly gave beneath her and her body began trembling under some unseen weight. Her eyes went wide as she looked up at Killian; surprise written on his face as he stepped forward catching her slight frame. Arianna felt something strong and hot coil around her as her body went cold, and her vision grew black before she faded into nothingness and all the while Killian stood there, transfixed on this girl who was so vulnerable. She looked fragile with her pale skin that looked as if it had never felt the suns warmth. Arianna's body began to shudder and perspire, and then her eyes flashed open and looked straight at Killian.
        "It can't be true..." Arianna whispered before passing out again.
        Killian held her tightly and carried her back to her room, he cursed beneath his breath as he scarcely avoided the occasional adult roaming the halls. Not only was it against the rules to be seen in the girls tower, but he knew carrying the Academy’s precious daughter surely would get him in trouble. Carefully, Killian managed to make it to what he could only pray was her room; a small plaque beside a door held the Initials A.W.,  he quietly slipped through the door and placed her in her bed. As Killian started to leave, he glanced back at the small girl asleep,  the white moonlight basking on her skin and making her almost glow. He bit his lip and sighed as he slipped back the way he had come.
        Arianna found herself outside a large door. She had been in the Academy her entire life, but had never seen this door before; embossed on the outside of it was the double Kusarigama of Viscious. The handles were circled in Runes, the beautiful strokes perfectly etched in and glowing. Her eyes followed each curve and line of the locking runes. She felt herself reaching against her own volition, but when she was about to touch the metal her hand passed right through the handle instead.
        "How is this possible? Where am I?"
       Arianna felt a pull from the other side of the door, and while she tried to fight it her body was pulled through the space leaving a feeling of soaked clothing weighing her down. Inside was even more confusing, Father Zebadiah stood with Sister Vieira and Brother Willum flanking him and unconscious on the floor were faces she recognized, but before she could focus enough to remember a name, one face changed to another. Each sleeping form was being held down as the Father leaned in close and etched into their flesh with a rune rod, the crystal glowing white hot from the Ka being poured into it.    
        Arianna was surprised and she went unseen as her body continued to be pulled closer, her ears picking up the words being spoken with each stroke
        "Scanatariale Leeikaeh Beriaieina Ehnaehrijuya"
          Arianna finally remembered a name as the face of a young man in his early twenties appeared. He had soft golden eyes and dark curls, Tomas. Her mind reeled as a name began matching to every face; these were the graduates. Arianna found herself staring up into Father Zebadiah’s eyes, but they looked different. Black and bottomless as they stared through her, then a voice began beckoning her.
        "See the unseen, and remove the untruths. You are my vessel and together we shall seek justice against those that misuse their power, and  we shall strike out against those claiming false hoods."
        The voice was as soft as a gentle breeze, yet firm like stone as it pulled her towards a bright light, the words echoed softly until she was overcome with brightness and no sound remained.          
        Arianna awoke to the sun blaring in and her head pounding, she found it hard to focus. Slick with sweat, her dress and hair clung to her face and neck. She brought her arm down over her eyes to shield them from the bright light that was making her nauseous, and as she closed her eyes, flashes of her vision came slamming back against her fragile head. Was it a dream? Nightmare? It had felt so real to her; from the faces she knew to the voice that somehow seemed more familiar then her own.

It wasn't the first nightmares to plague her but they were the first she could recall vividly. Thinking of the Fathers eyes black and soulless turned her stomach to knots but she knew it was a nightmare only for those adults around her while strict were full of nothing but good. They took her in and cared for her, cared for all who came to learn within these walls. Shaking the thoughts from her head she slowly sat up and looked around, it took a moment to realize she didn't recall returning to her room.
        Wait. How am I even in my room? Last thing I remember was... Killian.
        Arianna started to stand but the weight somehow seemed too much,  her legs threatened to give out beneath her. She took a deep breath and focused on steadying herself. Slowly, she turned to the wash basin and undressed, she scrubbed away the sweat that clung upon her skin until it was red and stung, when she was done she dressed and took to her prayers. Pouring the water, lighting the candle, taking offering from left and then right, as Arianna leaned in to extinguish the candle, she felt a prickle on the back of her neck and a soft whisper in her head.
        "You are my vessel and together we shall seek justice against those that misuse their power."
        Arianna rubbed the goosed flesh on her arms, and for just a second the air felt chilled around her, but now seemed normal. She drew her hair up into a ponytail and tied it with a strip of leather as she slid her feet into her shoes. She left her room and ran off to the cafeteria hoping to catch Killian before morning lessons. As she rounded the corner, she nearly ran into him. He was standing outside the cafeteria entrance, an impish grin splayed across his face as she stopped just inches from him.
        “Good morning Princess, feeling better?” his words sounded mocking, but there was a hint of sincerity in his gaze.
        “What happened?” she asked stonily.
        Killian’s mouth twitched at her question, his air of mischief wavered for a moment before he flashed his grin once more. 

“To much cake? My mom said to much sugar is bad for you, I guess with this tiny body you have all that sugar must have put it into shock.”

Arrianna narrowed her eyes and met his directly, she stared at him unblinking but he simply lowered his face until his eyes were level with hers. Students began arriving for breakfast but instead of passing by many just gathered in whispered bunches, to the onlookers it was a sight to behold. Arrianna pale in every aspect and standing just 5 feet tall was being stared down by this boy wrapped in caramel skin, dark hair that fell messily in his face and his six foot body positioned oddly to meet her gaze.

 

Several minutes became ten and then apparently the gathering of students drew the attention of the adults. Sister Viera came rushing over waving the students away and ushering them to their breakfast lest they start their day hungry. When she finally made it to the center she found the cause of the commotion, with a skilled flick of the wrist she made contact with the top of Killians head with the journal she always carried. His body staggered a bit from the hit and he stumbled forward towards the small girl before him, he quickly caught himself on the wall behind her. They stood a second longer, staring at eachother. Their mouths so close she could taste cinnamon when he exhaled, her face glowed red and she channeled her Ka in her hands and feet and pushed him. The startled boy flew backwards and landed square on his butt, he looked wide eyed up at they tiny girl as she bowed to the teacher and ran off through the archway.

“It was Mister Plight, right?” Came the cold voice of Sister Viera.

“Yes ma'am…” he answered standing and brushing himself off, unable to meet her narrowed eyes.

“I am not quite sure what your interest is in our young miss is, but I believe it would be in your best interest not to harrass her. While she may not completely fit in yet with all you young folk, she is quite dear to all us old folk,” she said through a sharp smile. “Do I make my self clear?”

“Yes ma'am, crystal clear,” He answered smiling back but with his mouth only, his eyes grew hard as he continued to stare at the floor.

“Good, now off to breakfast. You will have orientation this morning and then begin lessons tomorrow."

Killian bowed and walked past sister Viera, his head still bowed until he made it into the cafeteria.

“I didn't want to be here either, but he wouldn't let me sleep if I didn't…or if he did,” Killian mumbled under his breath.

“Who didn't let you sleep? Your hormones? Having pervy dreams?” Jane teased, her face appearing in front of him. Her eyes sparkled with questions and mischief.

“What?"

“Who is keeping you from sleeping?” Jane asked already bored from his answer.

“Oh, no one. Just this place is different then back home is all,” Killian answered while looking past her to the tables and benches that filled the room.

Jane stood on her tip toes trying to block his view, her wild hair afforded her a few more inches and he looked down at her and grinned.

“Are you flirting with me Miss Jane?” he asked, his molten eyes locked onto her. 

“What? Eww no,” she said looking truly disgusted.

“Then what are you doing here, shouldn't you be tied at the hip to the Lady Wolfe?” he asked looking past her again.

“Well after your odd scene earlier she disappeared, I tried to find her but,” Jane wave to the crowded room.

“She can't have gone far then,” he said moving to leave.

“You won't find her, give her some space. It took a year for her to open up to me even a little bit and nearly two before she stopped the vanishing acts.” Jane said, hands on her hips.

“I don't have a year Miss Jane and I'm not you,” he said smiling.

“Well I don't know what that means because until you are terrible in every subject here and get kicked out, you have at-least 3 here,” Jane said matter-of-factly. 

“Let us hope not,”Killian said as he offered a wave and moved towards the lining line for food.

Jane shrugged and patted the  

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Kansas

Your so sweet Phil, thank you!

Philip Mygatt

Absolutely love your writing! Keep at it, you're wonderful!

Kansas

Hey folks, please don't be afraid to tell me your thoughts!

Chapter 4; Social Distancing

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