User talk:Miss.chevious

Chapter 1 - The Daze

A whirlwind of the night before blew into my head as I awoke in a small, white-sheeted hospital bed. The walls around me seemed to close in as I closed my eyes again. I moaned softly, “Walls,” the very thing I dreaded. Walls meant being caged which lead to the enablement of flying. If you’re wondering what in the world I’m talking about, my name is Re, I’m seventeen and I’m the last angel on Earth. At least, that’s what I believed before last night. Last night… the night that changed my whole world. You see, before last night, I thought of the world as my backyard, I could go anywhere I wanted, do anything, anytime. But that all changed. As I sat up, I replayed the events of last night from the beginning; I had just finished by steaming bowl of spaghetti when I heard a crash outside, not too far from my small, two-story house. I couldn’t care less though. I hovered up the stairs, not an inch from touching the floor, and sat down on my bed to read yet another, ridiculous teen magazine. Another crash emitted from just outside my window, my heart fluttered with surprise. I wasn’t scared; don’t get me wrong, but just a little… anxious. I flipped open the cover of the magazine and tried to concentrate on the small words filling the page. I had almost zoned out the distraction, when a boom made me jump. It sounded like it was inside my house. I gulped audibly and walked to my bathroom to renew my lipgloss, a way to take my mind off things. After I was satisfied, I walked back to my room, having convinced myself that it was my wild imagination. I closed my eyes, lying down and wrapping my wings around myself. A few seconds later, the flapping of wings blasted into the room. “We found you,” a hoarse, eerie voice called. I opened my eyes and stifled a scream. A few feet from my face hovered two, black banshees staring my in the eyes with their empty sockets. Now, you may not know a lot about banshees but to sum it up, they are u-gly. And to put a cherry on top of this wonderful scene, they had knives. But they weren’t holding them, their hands were knives. I shivered and spread my wide, white wings out to their full wing-span in an attempt to intimidate them. I blinked. When my hazel eyes opened again, the banshees were gone. I laid down and stared at the ceiling. Just a dream, I thought. I was wrong. Yet another crash awakened me not 10 minutes later. I spoke angrily in rapid German under my breath. Looking around, I stood up, slipping on my thin, light pink robe and flew downstairs. The back porch light flicked as always as I landed lightly on my bare feet. A sharp pitched squeal came from the front yard. I flew to the window and my eyes opened in awe, changing from hazel to dark green. Outside in my yard, a boy, around 18 years of age, stood, his dark hair whipping around his face in the breeze. The banshees did not accompany him; they were nowhere to be seen. I stared for a minute and then noticed a pair of white, gold-tipped wings folded neatly against his back. An angel! I though with great surprise mixed with fear. Like me… He turned, and for a split-second, our eyes met, his chestnut brown, mine dark green. Something about him, his hard look or rippling muscles or both, told me that he was dangerous. I ignored my common sense to stay away and walked to my front door, opened it and walked up to him. I had my wings concealed and he made his invisible at my first movement, although humans shouldn’t be able to see anything special. But there are a handful of them on Earth, such as my best friend Dheai, which could. I stared him in the eyes and scowled, “What do you think you are doing in my lawn?” I questioned, making it perfectly clear that he did not have permission to be there. He blinked, looking taken aback, “Uh… clipping your bushes.” He replied hesitantly in a rough voice, doubt flashing visibly in his eyes. I raised an eyebrow, “That’s strange. I don’t remember hiring an angel to garden for me.” I shot back. His eyes widened slightly, but barely visible. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He muttered, staying firm. I rolled my eyes. “I saw your wings. Don’t act like you don’t know.” I said, getting annoyed. He smiling, trying to charm me. “Now isn’t a pretty young girl such as yourself supposed to be in bed by now?” He said his voice like honey. I scowled harder, “No way are you going to treat me like that! I’m seventeen!” I raised my voice, thoroughly annoyed, but not enough to draw attention. He raised his hands in a sign of innocence. “Sorry, sorry.” He said, his eyes turning gold. I pointed it out, “Your eyes changed color. You are an angel.” He sighed, giving up. “Alright, you must be one of those humans with the Sight.” He admitted. I stepped back, raising an eyebrow. “Now, now. I assure you, I am no human.” I smiled, stretching my wings out. He gaped at me, “But that’s impossible!” He gasped, face flushed. “All the angels left in the world are in the Axis Angels.” Just as I was going to ask what these “Axis Angels” were, the banshees came back. They always know how to ruin a party. I was scratched and clawed at until I lay, bleeding on the ground. The boy stood over me, protecting me from the banshees until they exploded back to their world, Under-Deep. I passed out, my last memory was him looking at me over, inspecting my wounds.

I shook my head to get out of the daze of the past. “Was it a dream?” I wondered aloud for a second before realizing it couldn’t have been since I was still in the hospital room. My mother walked in, peering in from behind the door before coming in. She was a tall woman, six-five. Unfortunately, I didn’t get her height, or my father’s. I was a mere five foot at age seventeen. Her dark hair rolled down her back and over her shoulders in tight curls. At least I got that trait from her. We both had the same, dark hair with natural curls. Her eyes were green, whereas my father’s were blue. But of course, since me being an angel, my eyes changed color usually with my mood but I haven’t figured that out yet. She was dressed in jeans and a casual t-shirt, as always she was never formal. Her eyes were deep green pools of worry, staring into me as if she could read my mind, which sometimes I believed she could. “How do you feel?” she asked, biting her lower lip slightly with concern. That’s her, always concerned. “I feel fine. Thanks for coming in to check on me.” I replied, faking a small smile. I didn’t feel fine at all, the scratches stung and the bruises were pounding. She smiled back, letting out a barely audible sigh of relief. “Actually I came in here to tell you that your grandmother flew all the way from New York to see you.” She said, perking up. Ouch. That hurt. So she wasn’t in here to check on me. I narrowed my eyes slightly, but I felt special that my grandmother, who lives in New York, would fly all the way to Nevada, where I live, to check on me. Or is this just another message? I smiled wider. “Thanks. I’m a little hungry, can I get something?” I asked, really just trying to get her out of my hair. She smiled and nodded, “I’ll be back with your breakfast.” She said, walking out of the room with the grace that never left her. I laid back down, wings aching from lack of room. The IV pumped some sort of clear-less liquid into my hand and I cringed at the sight, since I couldn’t really feel it. By the time my mother came back in, I had organized my thoughts so that I could get out of here. She handed me a plate of eggs and bacon. I realized how famished I actually was and started eating; barely noticing that she was still there, watching me. I finished and looked up at her, smiling genuinely. “Thanks for the food.” I said, meaning it. “When can I get out again?” I asked. She shrugged and smiled, “Right now if you want.” She said. Bingo, I knew it already since I had read the papers on the table nearby, but it was part of my plan. Besides, she couldn’t know that I was prying. I blinked, thinking through my plan. “Is my truck outside?” I asked. She shook her head, frowning a bit. “I thought you knew that I brought you here. That’s alright. Would you like me to take you home?” She offered. Boom, just like that my plan was shattered. I desperately tried for something, anything to buy time. “Could you go get it?” I asked. If you’re wondering where I plan to go, I’m going to find that boy. But I can’t let my mom know. She doesn’t even know I’m an angel! My mom nodded slowly, “Alright, but stay here until I come back.” I nodded, crossing my fingers behind my back. “Of course,” I said. I waited five minutes after I watched her car drive away before going up to the doctor, with my IV, and signing myself out. Ten minutes later, I was free, with a band-aid on my hand from where the IV had been. They took it out without trouble, but I couldn’t say the same for myself. It hurt and I had to dig my nails into the palm of my other hand so that I didn’t scream. I turned the corner and prepared to take off in search of the boy, but no need I ran right into him. I jumped back, “What are you doing here?” I said, angrily. He smiled in a charming way. “Well, seeing as you are falling all over me, I’d ask the same thing.” He said, his slight accent clear in his voice. I scowled, “What?! I just bumped into you, on accident!” I replied harshly. He brushed a piece of hair behind my ear, his fingers not touching my skin. I turned away, “I don’t even know your name, why are you kissing up to me.” He laughed softly, “I’ve not kissed you though.” He said, a look on his face. I rolled my eyes, which were icy blue. “I should hope you will never.” I snapped back. “I just want to you what your ‘Axis Angels’ are.” I said, stressing the words “Axis Angels”. His grin disappeared, “It’s an organization where angels can live freely, away from earth, and learn their inner Retuy.” He replied, “It is peaceful and no humans can go there. And if that’s all you wanted to know…” He turned around and spread his wings to fly. I ran in front of him, “Wait. I’m confused. Where is it? What is a Reetoo? And how many angels exactly are there?” I said, my mind still scattered anyways. He smiled, “So you want me to stay?” We took a walk, talking about the Axis Angels. “So the Raytu is an inner power that only angels can possess?” I said. He laughed, “You’re still not pronouncing it right. It’s Re-too-e.” He said, saying each syllable slowly. “But yes.” I repeated it, “Re-too-e?” He smiled and nodded. “Hmm. But what about where they live?” I asked. He looked at the clear-watered pond beside us, “The After-Lights is where we live.” He replied patiently even though I had asked many times. “After-Lights?” I repeated. “Where’s that?” He looked thoughtful, “Where an angel’s wings take them.” He replied. That was confusing. But I didn’t say anything. I just watched the ducks splashing about at the bank of the pond. So the Retuy are powers. After-Lights is the place. There are many angels other than myself. How could I not know all this? How did they know? Why did he leave the After-Lights in the first place? Why did he come to my house? Why didn’t he answer my questions about his name? Questions swirled endlessly in my head. But I didn’t bother to ask any more. He would find a way to dodge them. “I have to head home.” I said finally as the sun rose in the sky, heating up the world below. He nodded and walked away without a word. That’s a nice goodbye. I thought sourly before flying back to the hospital and walking in. Chapter 2 - The Threshold

My mother, standing at the counter, was frantic. Oh great… I thought, cringing. She turned around at the opening of the automatic doors. I stood just a few feet away from her. She ran to me and hugged me. She stepped back, hands on my shoulders, and her eyes pierced into me. I gave her a weak smile, “Hello?” I murmured. She frowned, “Where were you, Rey-linia?” She demanded. I flinched at the sound of my full name. “I went for a walk to get fresh air.” I replied calmly. It wasn’t a lie. She let out a sigh, “You nearly scared me to death.” She scolded. I bit my lip, “Sorry?” I offered. She swatted the air as if to shoo my apology away. “Why didn’t you tell me?” She asked, tapping her foot. I knew she wouldn’t get too mad, but I still felt worry bubbling in my stomach. “I… knew you wouldn’t let me.” I admitted. She sighed again, “I got your car. But you need to rest when you get home.” She said. I nodded, more than happy to. I hugged her and ran upstairs to get my bag. I walked through the open door into the small, white room and grabbed my camo messenger bag, slinging it over one shoulder. I took one more breath and ran downstairs, to my mother who was still waiting at the counter. She signed a few things and I signed my name, full name, at the bottom of a small stack of papers before leaving. I pulled into my driveway, knocking over my trashcan. I got out, sighing dramatically, and leaned down to pick up the trash bags. I heard one, sharp pitched whistle behind me and turned around, dropping the bags. The boy was standing there, leaning against the one, thick tree in my front yard. I rolled my dark blue eyes at him. “Will you stop stalking me? I know you won’t answer my questions.” I said, leaning against my car with one eyebrow raised. He smiled, “But I can’t stop stalking you. You’re just so easy to stalk.” He walked towards me as he said it. I turned away and walked to my door, digging in my jean pocket for my keys. I heard jingling behind me and turned sharply around. He was swinging them around on one finger. “Looking for these?” He asked with a charming smile. I frowned and lunged for them, brushing him lightly. I grabbed them and landed on my feet, only because I used my wings to steady myself. I glared at him, sweeping past him quickly. I unlocked the door and stepped inside, but I tripped on the threshold and he caught me around my waist. I pulled away from him. He looked at me with soft eyes. “What? No thanks?” He asked. I sighed, “Thanks.” I muttered. His smile returned. “Can I… come in?” He asked. “No.” I snapped, slamming the door in his face. I didn’t bother to lock it, he wouldn’t come in now. I walked into the kitchen and poured myself some hot tea. I sat down, legs crossed, on the couch and sipped the tea. Going through my head, I eventually fell asleep on the couch, forgetting almost everything after a few minutes in my exhaustion. I woke up, yawning, finding that boy sitting on the velvet chair across from me. My now red eyes widened, both embarrassed and infuriated. “Why. Are. You. Here?” I demanded, standing up to my shaky legs. He stood up also, striding over to me, probably ready to catch me if I fell. “You left the door unlocked, I figured you wanted me in here.” He said, his eyes flashing slyly. I rolled me eyes as they turned hazel. “I figured that you wouldn’t be that stalkerish.” I snapped. He touched my hand lightly, “You need to brush your hair.” He muttered. I ran upstairs, “Don’t change the subject.” I said as I quickly combed through my long, dark hair. Since it was naturally curly, I brushed through it and the curls sprug up through the tangles. I sat on the top stair, staring at him. “What do you want?” I said, trying to seem casually. What’s his problem? He can’t just break in! I thought. He sighed, “I want you to join the Axis Angels.” He said, his usually icy blue eyes turning deep green. I hesitated. My own kind is there. I wouldn’t have to put up with humans. But my mother is here… What would she think? What about my father? But… I have to. I have Retuy… I think. I want to meet other angels. I thought, trying to make up my mind. But before I even knew what I was saying, I answered. “I will.” He brightened, his eyes returning to blue. “I didn’t think you would. But come with me.” He said. I flinched, trying to organize my thoughts. What have I done? was the only thought that I could grasp. I stood up and followed though. He crouched next to the threshold, the one I tripped on, and touched it lightly. He traced the doorframe and it sparked. He stood up and held out his hand. “You coming?” He asked. I bit my lip, “Do I need to, you know, pack anything?” I asked, feeling foolish when he smiled at me. He shook his head and I took his hand. It was warm and mine were cold. I blushed as he tightened his grip and led me through the door. The world swirled around me as I stepped over the threshold. He didn’t let go and I could feel his hand around mine, but I couldn’t see him. I squeezed my eyes shut and urged myself not to get sick. I tightened my grip on his hand. I heard his gentle voice, “Spread your wings.” I did as I was told, my large wings spreading to their full wingspan. I immediately felt wind hit me and my hair tumbled about my face. I opened my eyes, feeling at ease. And saw him next to me, his gold-tipped wings spread. We were over a vast opening of water, no cliffs or anything around us. “Where… where are we?” I whimpered. He smiled and flew closer, “Over Arbor Waters.” He replied softly. “We are heading to Axis Isles.” I nodded, not fully understanding. The waves were comfortingly swishing far underneath us. I could hear the never-ending, soothing sloshing of the water. I saw, in the distance, many peaks of land peering over the horizon. He pointed to them. “Those are the Axis Isles.” He said, smiling. I smiled shyly back. As we approached, I saw a huge, gray house in the middle of the largest isle. He turned to me, “Fold your wings and land in that grove of trees.” He ordered, pointing to a grove of willows. I nodded, folding my wings neatly on my back. I immediately plummeted down to the grove. I neared it and when I was about to crash, I spread my wings, pulling violently back. I landed lightly and rubbed my back, where my wings met my shoulder blades. They were a little sore from the jolt and I cringed when I touched it. I felt a strong breeze as he landed next to me. “Nice landing.” He commented sarcastically. I resisted the urge to retort and walked over to him. “Now what?” I demanded. He shook his head, smiling. “You sure are in a rush. Follow me.” He replied, walking left into a small gap in the beautiful, dangling branches of the silver-tinted willows. I followed quickly, emerging into a village of white cabin-like houses. He turned to me, “Re, welcome home.” I sat in my new cabin. It was nice; white, silky bed, white walls, white and gold desks already full of clothing, a beautiful white couch and two matching chairs, a fully-stocked bathroom. I couldn’t ask for more. There were willows growing around my cabin and a river swirled by outside. I was tired and my wings were sore, so I curled up on the king-sized bed and fell asleep. My dreams were mixed, mostly that boy, my memories entwined in them. It was peaceful and even in my slumber, I could hear the river flowing, lapping at the bank. I awoke from my rest and sat up, running my fingers through my hair. I stared at the couch and chairs, no stalker. I walked into the bathroom and renewed my lip gloss, relieved to find no stalker there either. I walked back into the main room and changed, after making sure that the door was locked and drawing the shades, into a white and gold dress that flowed down to my knees. There weren’t any shoes around except for my black and silver tennis shoes that I had brought with me, so I figured that I wouldn’t have to do much walking. There was a silver laurel on my desk but I decided not to wear it because it was too chichi. I walked out of the cabin after finding the silver keys in the first drawer of my desk and locked it behind me. I sat on a sturdy branch of a willow and watched silver and white butterflies flutter around carelessly. One white landed on my shoulder and I smiled at it, feeling calm. It seemed to blend in with my silky dress. I reached out to touch its wing lightly and it didn’t move, letting me brush it delicate with a finger. It’s so trusting. I wish I had a life like this little guy. I thought, narrowing my eyes in the pleasure of the silence except for the calm beating of tiny wings around me. After an hour, a heavier beating of wings aroused me from my trance. The butterfly on my shoulder fluttered away. I slung down from the branch, hitting the ground lightly. He was standing in front of me, the stalker. I still didn’t know his name, which aggravated me more-so that him stalking me. I decided to ask if he didn’t have anything better to say. He stayed silent, looking me over with an eyebrow raised. I put my hands on my hips, annoyed. “Will you say something? Like maybe… telling me your name?” I snapped, walking towards him a few steps. He smiled, “You look like an angel.” He commented. I narrowed my eyes, not from pleasure, though emotion stirred in me. “I am. And you’re dodging my question.” I growled. He just smiled wider, obviously pleased with my annoyance. “My name’s Rhett.” He said, brushing my hair back from my face. I smacked his hand away. “Alright, Rhett. Where are the other angels?” I asked. He dropped his hand to his side, “At the meeting I came to get you for.” He replied coolly. I raised an eyebrow, “Well, why am I not going?” I asked. He shook his head, smiling still. “’Cause you are here.” He muttered, taking my hand before I could reply. Chapter 3 – The Meeting

We arrived at the gray house on the large isle, landing silently at the doorstep. He opened the gold, glass door for me and beckoned me in. I hurried in, desperate to make the meeting. I looked up at the huge dome ceiling with pictures of angels painted on it. Gold statues were crammed around the bottom of the dome in little niches carved into the white marbles walls. The floor was slick and beautiful. The building seemed to give of an ancient vibe, making me feel small and adolescent. Many bookshelves, made from a shining, black metal lining the walls, were crammed with books that had ripped and crumpled pages in them that looked obsolete. An elderly man in a blue-silver robe stood at a marble counter in the center of the main room. Rhett strode up to him and I walked in his shadow shyly. He muttered something to the man and the man smiled at him and then at me. We went left, leaving the man at his post, and into a room that looked much like a conference room. Angels filled the plush, leather seats that packed the room. I sat in the back where not many angels were and stared at the stage at the opposite wall which Rhett was heading to, his strides effortless. I leaned against the back of my chair, resting my head on the wall as I listened to the hushed murmurs rising when Rhett stepped up to the microphone. I winced when his voice came booming around the stadium-like room, which also had a large dome ceiling covered with murals of scenery. The meeting droned on, Rhett and the old man, whose name I had found out was Justin, talked about angels winning awards and some sort of classes. My name never came up. I half-expected that someone would announce my joining at every word. I had begun to get bored with Justin when Rhett returned to the microphone, “And also, I would like all of us to welcome Re, the newest member.” The murmuring gossips that had been persisting throughout the meeting hushed and it seemed all the angels looked around at me. I blushed and tried to look casual and not notice. The murmurs became active again and I heard my name multiple times. Rhett left the stage and made his way back to me, his black vest standing out in the rest of the white, gold or silver things in the room. He sat next to me and didn’t make eye contact. I was very put out, but didn’t say anything. The meeting was over and Rhett bid goodbye to everyone who left the room. Justin stayed and cleaned with a few angels who were dressed in silver, though. Rhett parted from the room, grabbing my hand. I snatched it away and made my way to the door. I left him in the back of the bustling crowd, but when I got out of the exquisite building, I waited for him, leaning against the wall. I tapped my foot like my mother would have done to me. He looked at me innocently, “What?” He said, reaching for my hand again. I pulled it back, “You just had to call me out on that.” I snapped. He frowned, looking confused. “But you wanted me to, I know you did.” He said. I looked at him, wondering how he would know. He smiled slyly, “Oh, I haven’t told you yet. That is my Retuy, to read minds.” He explained. Everything became clear then, I stared at him. How did I not figure that out before?! I scolded myself in my head. He frowned, “It’s okay. You didn’t know.” He said. Wow this was getting annoying, him knowing everything. I blinked my long eyelashes once before pushing past him to go to my cabin, not finding anything else to say. He stepped in front of me, making me bump into him. I stepped back, scowling. He smiled at me charmingly. “Oh, come on. It’s not that bad. Anyways, you have to sign up for classes.” He said, taking my hand. I found it useless to pull away, and half didn’t want to, so I let him lead me to an elegant brick building with a gold plaque on it that read, Class Sign-Ups. I sighed, how obvious, I thought and pushed the door opened to get in. He followed, a smile slathered across his face. I rolled my eyes and saw two twin girls at a counter, both with clipboards in their hands. They both had gray eyes, long black hair pulled up in a ponytail and a silver dress that fell in waves to their knees. They were both smiling at Rhett, seeming mesmerized. One said, “Welcome. I’m Olivia. What can I do for you?” The other one elbowed her, a look of jealousy on her face. She smiled affectionately at Rhett, “I’m Jessica. How may I help you?” She offered in an alluring voice. Rhett smiled in an enchanting way. This disgusted me. “I just need to sign up for some classes.” I barged in, stepping in front of Rhett. He put a hand on my shoulder and I didn’t take interest in it. Both stared at me in disbelief, but Olivia, I think, stepped up to me and shoved a clipboard into my hands. “Fill it out.” She said in an, oh-so-obvious, fake sweet voice. I smiled and walked out, dragging Rhett with me. They watched him go ruefully. We sat high in a dense fir tree filling out the papers, him explaining each one to me. I was interested in archery, the first one on the list, but I didn’t think I would be good at it. “Don’t worry. All angels are good at archery, well mostly. It’s only if you enjoy it.” He said reassuringly. I stretched my wings out a bit, they were stiff. I stared at the word, archery. Something about it was calling me. I nodded, “Okay. Then I will take archery, combat and riding. Is that okay?” I asked, looking into his eyes. He smiled and nodded slowly, “But you also have to take Retuy class.” He added softly. I nodded again and checked that off too, feeling his eyes bearing into me. I handed him the clipboard and flew to my cabin, feeling uncomfortable. I sat down on the couch, curling my legs under me. I wrote the day’s events in a gold-glazed journal. I felt like I needed to, so that it would be easier to review my thoughts and memories. My mother always said I needed to, she always had. It made me think of her, and a dark sadness enveloped me. I curled up tighter as if to fend it off, though it didn’t help. I stared out the window at the rising moon and let myself drift into a restless sleep. I woke up, extremely tired, and sat up painfully. Every muscle on me screamed in protest and I cringed. A knock on my door fully aroused me from the daze. I stammered over to my desk to brush my hair before opening the door, a white blanket wrapped around my shoulders. Rhett stood outside, he stared at me with amusement. He stifled a laugh and bustled me back inside, “Get ready for your classes at noon. Breakfast is waiting in the Commons Hall.” He said, slipping out of my cabin and closing the door. I sighed and flitted into a silver dress that fell smoothly to my thighs. I set the very chichi, silver laurel on my rolling brown hair. The curls were twisted in my dark hair; I tried to brush them out, but it didn’t help. I sighed. This is as good as it’s going to get, I thought to myself. I walked out the door into a new day. The classes flew by; archery was a breeze, combat class wasn’t too hard, riding class was okay since we only brushed pegasi (the plural of pegasus), but then there was Retuy class. It was difficult, but Rhett was the teacher. As soon as I walked into the dimly-lit, roomy hut, I felt a gust of power. My right palm stung. I walked to the side of the crowd and tended to cling to the sides. Rhett droned on about the powers. Blah, blah, blah. We already went over this stuff on our walk. Then it got interesting; “The newbies get Current-Bands to awake their inner Retuy. Current-Bands kindle and assist you as your Retuy gets stronger until you don’t need them.” Rhett said. A hush fell over the crowd as excitement hung in the air. He jumped down from the small stage and over to the other door, that went out to a large, outdoor field padded with dirt. As I walked by him, his eyes flashed to a deep green. He gave me a charming smile and winked. I rolled my eyes, “What?” I asked. He smiled wider, “I am your private mentor after this class; stay here after everyone leaves.” He said. I could tell he was holding back a laugh. I refrained from a snide comment. “That’s… peachy.” I replied calmly and pushed past him. I sat on one of the benches that framed the large area. Guys that were in black vests and jeans came out and picked out a group of three to start training. I was chosen by Rhett, along with two blonde girls who looked like sisters. I smiled weakly at them and stood especially close to Rhett; something about them made me wary. We started the training by getting a silver-gray bracelet that was extraordinarily fitting even though they all seemed to be the same size and it fit everyone else. I guess it was some angel thing I didn’t know about and pushed it to the back of my thoughts. Rhett tended to pay more attention to me, than the other girls. “Hey.” I said to them. One of them smiled, she was the shorter one, shorter hair with blue eyes. “Hello, I’m Kihina.” She said sweetly. The taller one, with hair to her shoulders and dark blue eyes, looked away. I think she rolled her eyes, but I couldn’t tell. Rhett spoke up, “We ready girls?” The two girls stared at him dreamily. I nodded, unamused. Rhett smiled at me and spoke again, “We are going to test and try to see what your inner Retuy may be.” He said in a calm, soothing voice. The two girls nodded eagerly. I sighed, nodding once. He set a short glass in my hand and handed the two other girls two more glasses. They smiled and took it from him, careful to touch his hand. He gave them a small smile and they looked at each other excitedly. I couldn’t believe this. What’s with girls? I’m not like that! I thought. I caught Rhett’s eye as I was thinking; he knew. I held the glass boredly until he finished showing the girls how to hold their glasses. Even though I knew they knew how to. He stood in front of us and muttered something under his breath. Kihina’s glass shattered and she dodged every piece. She stood there, looking shocked, her sister stared at her. Rhett nodded once and smiled. I stared, mouth gaped open, shocked at what just happened. Kihina didn’t seem to know either. Her sister looked almost more surprised than me. Rhett escorted startled Kihina to a bench and she sat there, looking blanking into the distance. Rhett muttered something to her as me and her sister exchanged confused looks. I looked back at Rhett who was approaching us. He smiled again and looked at Kihina’s sister. “Trina, your sister has a form of InterCut.” He informed her. Trina smiled and nodded. “That’s a powerful Retuy. Will I be the same?” She replied calmly. This was mindboggling; didn’t anyone find this just a little strange?! I just stood there awkwardly. Rhett looked thoughtful for a moment, “That’s what I was wondering. But I don’t think so, since your glass didn’t crack. Obviously your spirit currents don’t match.” He said, still looking thoughtful. Trina frowned, “Will… will I still be as powerful?” She wondered. Figures, I thought, she’s just worried about power. Rhett shot me a quick look. I rolled my eyes. He nodded slowly to Trina, “Probably, unless your parents spirit currents weren’t connected.” He reassured her. She smiled brightly and didn’t say anything else. He beckoned for the glasses and Trina and I handed then to him. The next test was with a Chinese fan. It was intricately painted with black ink. I spread it but Rhett darted me a glare. I quickly closed it and kept it in both hands in front of me, like Trina was doing. Rhett stood in front of us and put two fingers on each shoulder, he muttered something that sounded like, “Actoo.” But I couldn’t make it out. Trina suddenly burst into the air and did a series of rapid actions. Rhett looked impressed. She landed, crouched, with one hand on the ground and the other behind her back holding the fan. I stared at her and backed up. Actually, I might be getting used to this madness. Trina fell into Rhett and he caught her, trying to hold her steady. I watched, not sure if I could help. Trina eventually straightened herself and blinked at Rhett a few times. Rhett smiled at her and Trina blushed, “I… I have InterReact. Don’t I?” She said softly. Rhett frowned a bit, “It looks like it, except one thing. InterReacts don’t have balance and you obviously do.” He replied, his voice a bit guarded. I stared at them, I don’t care what she has! I want to know what my Retuy is! I thought angrily and tapped my foot quietly. After Trina and Rhett had finished a conversation that bored me to death and make no sense, Rhett turned to me and took my fan without asking. I stared at him as he was walking away, “Do you know what my Retuy is? Since you’re all psychic and all?” I asked. He turned on his heel and walked back, “We’re done for today. You can go back to your quarters.” He said, his voice low. I could tell that something was on his mind, even if I wasn’t psychic like him. I stomped back to my cabin. I slammed the door behind me and sank down onto the couch, scowling. How dare he! I didn’t find out what my Retuy was! What is this? A joke? Are they trying to make me look like a fool?! I bet it’s a prank. I should get out of here. I thought, trying to make sense of the whole thing. I grabbed my suitcase and stuffed it with anything I could get my lithe fingers on. I paused when my hand reached the silver laurel. My fingers tightened around it and then released it, slipping back to my side. I turned my head to the side, seeming to feel a sort of aura wavering from it. I straightened my head, feeling at ease and started unpacking my back slowly. I wanted to go talk to Rhett for some reason. I sat on the edge of my bed and gently eased down after awhile and fell into a calming sleep.

Chapter 4- The Shin`a I woke up the next morning with heavy heart. I didn’t feel like doing anything, but I drug myself to breakfast and got a cup of hot, chamomile tea. I sat on my couch, sipping the steaming drink and staring at the door. I expected Rhett to burst in any second like he always did. But the minutes ticked by and he still didn’t come get me for today’s classes. He said he would and he hasn’t lied… yet. Or has he? Did he, has he, lied to me? I thought, staring down into my cup. No. He wouldn’t. I frowned, not believing myself. A stiff knock on the door aroused me from my thoughts. I smiled, pushing the doubts away as I strode to the door and opened it. But my smile disappeared as it revealed not to be Rhett, but a girl. She had feathery, gold that flowed to her waist in waves. Her eyes were pure turquoise, burning into me uncomfortably even if she was smiling. She had an olive complexion and smooth skin. Her clothing was a silky cloth draped over her shoulders and dropping to her ankles. I narrowed my eyes, too perfect for my taste. I thought distastefully. She narrowed her eyes slightly as well, smiling all the while. “Hello. My name is Folar. I will be your Shin`a.” This was just peachy. Not only was she absolutely perfect, but she was smart and laid-back as well. I suppose we got along well because I seemed to be snappy and she endured it. We kind of balanced each other out; when she was shy, I would speak for her. When I got snappy, she calmed me down. I even started to like her. But she was my Shin`a. A Shin`a was not an angel, but they were there to help you with your Retuy, protect you from things I had no idea and no one would tell me and to introduce me to the world of the angels. Well, the last one was really just for newbies like me; but more advanced angels had them too. She wasn’t supposed to be my friend, but I guess you could call us that. Folar walked in front of me; leading me to a place she called the Arena of Tort. I followed her, staring at my feet. Arena of Tort, huh? I wonder what, or who, Tort is. I thought absentmindedly as I walked. I bumped into her and my head snapped up. She turned and scowled at me, “Re. You bumped into me again. Please look where you’re going.” She scolded, her eyes flashing. I scowled back, straightening up. “Sorry. Let’s just go to this Arena you’re talking about.” I said, my apology obviously sarcastic. She ignored the sarcasm and down some stairs that looked like they were carved into the earth. I followed her into the rock and looked around, blinking to try to adjust to the lack of light. A blaze materialized in front of me. I covered my eyes and then lowered my hand to adjust to the sudden light. I scowled at her but she just smiled, “Would you rather no light?” She said, reading my expression. I rolled my eyes when she turned around and followed her reluctantly. We entered a large, empty room with a domed ceiling and a flat floor. There were bright torches lining the walls, lighting up the entire room. In a few minutes, we had started practice. Folar was icily calm and I was skittish. I tried to stay calm and still, but I was just so excited. I was almost jumping up and down like a two year old. I stared at her, waiting for her to make her move. We were apparently practicing hand-to-hand combat. She walked around me and although I didn’t move, I was watching her. She suddenly lunged at me, I had sensed that she would before and leapt to the side. I stared at her on the ground and reached out a hand. “You okay?” I asked, bending down. She looked up at me, her beautiful turquoise eyes full of surprise. “How… How did you know that I was going to lunge? I put a spell on you so that you wouldn’t know.” She spat out, taking my hand warily and turning it over in her’s. I stared at her, raising an eyebrow. “Uh, I kinda sensed that you would.” I replied, kind of freaked out with this attention. She traced my palm with a long, black painted fingernail. A spark spread across my skin, making it burn. I yanked my hand back and rubbed it. “Ow! What was that for?!” I demanded, staring hard at her. She drew back in shock, “I… I’m sorry. I didn’t know. What did you… feel?” She asked hesitantly as if I would attack her. I frowned, “A kind of spark and burn. It hurt, and I can still feel it.” I answered, not sure what to expect next. Folar’s turquoise eyes turned white-blue and she turned on her heel. She stomped off and I followed, not wanting to stay here alone. Once she left, the torches went out and I scampered quickly after her. I sat in my ivy-covered cabin, staring out the window with a cup of steaming tea. It smelled like cinnamon and helped me think. Folar hadn’t told me what she was talking about in the Arena, or why she had gotten mad for some reason. I took a sip of my tea, not caring if it burned my tongue, and remembered her eyes changing color. I thought only angels could do that... And what about her spell-casting, is she some sort of witch? I didn’t think Shin`as were mages too… I got lost in my thoughts until I fell asleep with my head on the window. The next day, my hand hummed with energy. It wasn’t necessarily bad, but it was strange and it almost hurt. I stared at it in bed, sitting up. I turned it over and was surprised to see faint, blue symbols on the back of my hand. I blinked twice, thinking I was seeing things, and they were gone. I shook my head, telling myself that it was just my imagination. I got ready and as I was brushing my hair, the familiar knock on the door came, hard and with purpose. Rhett, I thought smiling. I pulled my hair back into a ponytail and walked to the door, opening it. Rhett stood there with a crooked smile on his face. I smiled back, “Where were you for the past week?” I asked trying to sound strict but I couldn’t, I was too happy. He smiled bigger, “I was with my Shin`a. Were you with yours? Did you meet her?” He asked, pushing a piece of his hair out of his warm, brown eyes. I stepped out, closing the door and nodded. “Folar. She’s nice. But she did something yesterday during our lesson… It confused me.” I replied. Rhett frowned, “Tell me.” He said. We walked around the island, mostly on the beach and talked. Dolphins played on the waves and gulls shrieked at us from the vast blue sky. Rhett didn’t seem to think it was any different from any other lesson. “She probably just got a hint of your Retuy and doesn’t know what it is. She doesn’t like to not know things.” He said. I believed every word, it made sense. Although, the blue symbols on my hand from this morning still tugged at me, I hadn’t told him. He picked up on it and looked at me, with a confused look. “What are you thinking about?” He asked, his voice low. I looked up at him, “Nothing.” I said, turning away and walking a bit further down the beach. He caught up to me and stood in front of me. “No, really. It could be very important.” He said, seeming tense. I blinked at him, “Uh… I had some symbols on my hand this morning, that’s all.” I said, sounding nonchalant. He stared at me, “What color?” He asked. I almost laughed, did it really matter? “Blue.” I said anyway. He blinked twice, “Did Folar touch that hand?” He asked, his voice quickening. I nodded, “She touched my palm after I dodged her lunge. It sparked and burned a little when she did though.” I said, starting to get interested. Rhett took my hand and flew back to my cabin. I held on around his neck, trying to keep up. He smiled, set me down and flew off at top speed. I walked to the river and sat down, not sure what to do. I picked up a stick and drew in the mud until lunchtime. Rhett came back to me and picked me up without a word. He was flying in the direction of… Earth. I stared at him, “What are you doing? Where are we going? Where’s Folar? Rhett answer me!” I said, trying to get him to say something. He just stared forward. I shivered and put my head on his chest, I had no idea what he would say next. We got to Earth somehow, I still had no clue how, and he set me down in my old front yard. I held on to his hand, “Why am I here?” I asked, my voice was shaking. He stared down at me, “Folar put a tracking device in you. She’s trying to get you to join… something. She isn’t a Shin`a. How could Justin let that slip past him?” He replied grimly, half talking to himself. I stared at him with wide eyes. “B-But…” I started. He put a finger to my lips and slowly his hand fall back to his side. “You can’t come back to Axis Isles. I’m sorry.” He said and I thought I saw a tear fall from his eye. I blinked, the tears were going to come sooner or later. “Can… you stay… with me?” I asked, the first tear falling. He shook his head, letting go of my hand. I watched as he flew off, not sure what to do. I walked into my house, getting the spare key from behind a certain brick in the wall and unlocking the door. The house smelled like wax and smoke. I guess mother came by, I thought absentmindedly. I walked to the couch and found myself thinking about Rhett. You heard him, I thought angrily, I can’t go back. Ever. He doesn’t want me there. And Folar is some evil witch. How could I think that I would live “happily ever after” there? I eventually began to think that I didn’t belong there and that I was meant to be an angel on Earth. I seemed to except my “fate” and curled up on the couch, although I was unable to sleep. Morning came slowly; I watched the sun rise from my back porch, wrapped in a black velvet blanket. I ran my fingers through my hair in a failed attempt to smooth it down. The light hanging from the ceiling swung lazily in its usual rhythm. Everything was almost normal, if the thought of Rhett and all the other angels wasn’t nagging me so much. I laid down and fell into an uncomfortable and restless sleep. A pale silver butterfly woke me up, landing on my nose. I stared at it, wondering if it was a dream. I looked around and realized I was in the willow tree. Did I dream that I went back home? Did I just fall asleep up here? I thought, allowing the dainty butterfly to light on my finger. I heard the snap of a twig and the crunch of dead leaves behind me. I turned around and realized I was facing a large, dark forest of dead trees and leaves blanketing the ground. I looked down and Folar stood there, smiling up at me. She held her hand up to me, “Ready for your lesson?” She asked. I nodded, a little confused. Did I dream that she was evil too? I thought as I took her hand and jumped down from the sturdy branch. She held on to my hand and I suddenly remembered that that was the hand that had the glowing blue symbols on it. I smiled at her, cautious still. My mind raced, wondering what to do. This can’t be a dream. I told myself, it’s too real. I walked beside Folar, who seemed to be leading me farther away from the grove. “Stop!” I heard firmly from behind me. Folar and I reeled around simultaneously to face stern-faced Rhett. He caught up, since Folar didn’t run, she just stood there smiling, and put a protective arm around my waist. “Folar. Where do you think you are taking her? Why did you take her from her home?” He demanded, keeping me close. I stared at her, and then at Rhett. Folar smiled sweetly, “What are you talking about? She belongs here.” She said, her voice reminded me of blooming flowers. Belongs here? I shuttered slightly. Is she a mind reader too? I stared at her. Rhett frowned more deeply, “Folar,” He said in a warning voice, “I would suggest leaving her alone.” Folar narrowed her eyes, “But she’s my apprentice.” She retorted, walking over to me to take me from him. I didn’t move but Rhett took action at once. He held his hand out in front of her and muttered, “Shweree,” Quite clearly. Folar flew back and hit a tree. Rhett took me in his arms once more and flew me back to my cabin, muttering under his breath. I saw Folar open her eyes slightly… they were blood-red. Chapter 5-The Brambles and the Bird I sat in my cabin, knowing Rhett locked the door. I sighed dramatically and stared at him. He was sitting in the chair across from me, tapping his fingers on his leg and staring out the window. “What was that?” I asked. No answer. “What was that?” I repeated. He glanced at me, “What was what, Re?” He asked, his voice weary. I walked over to him and sat in the chair next to him, resting my hand gently on his arm, “Those spells, how Folar got me here and what your Retuy is,” I replied, not sure what his reaction would be. He inhaled deeply, “‘Those spells’ were what saved your life. Folar got you here by her own magecraft. And my Retuy is…” His voice faded and his eyes were closing. He seemed tired so I let him drift to sleep as I paced and wondered. I hummed to myself softly and sat down on the corner of my bed. My hand suddenly started burning again and I stared at it. To my surprise, the symbols made sense. They spelled, in elegant writing, “The Brambles”. I stared at it and shook my head. The burning sensation was over and I could no longer make out the symbols. I looked over at Rhett, “What does it mean?” I muttered, wondering what he would say. He would probably say that I was crazy, I thought, staring down at my legs. I closed my eyes and saw Folar. Is she using her magecraft to get in my mind? I wondered. She approached me, “Welcome Re.” She said, her voice like bells. I stared hard at her, narrowing my eyes. “Welcome? You’re in my mind.” I snapped, “What do you want with me?” She smiled and narrowed her eyes also. “Oh, just to find out what your Retuy is, just a few more lessons.” She replied, her turquoise eyes glinting. I frowned, “Rhett says that you’re not a Shin`a. And I’m not going to believe you over him.” I growled. She raised an eyebrow, her smile disappearing. “Oh did he?” She said, a part of her sweet voice threatening. “Well, we can at least find your Retuy and then I can leave you alone.” I scowled at her, “And Rhett?” I asked, tapping my foot. She raised part of her lip in disgust, “I’ll… let him go, if, and only if, we find your Retuy. Otherwise, I will claim him and you will never ever see him again.” She growled back, clearly not wanting to let him go. I walked along in the dark, trailing along behind Folar. Her long hair was tied back in a high ponytail with gold lace entwined through it. My hands were twitching, “F-Folar?” I stammered. She whipped around, eyes gleaming in the luminescent moonlight. “What?” She snapped, putting one hand against a nearby oak tree. I gulped inaudibly. “Can I, may I, write a note to Rhett to tell him what’s going on?” I asked. She smiled, but her eyes were narrowed in an intimidating way. “Fine. I must review it though.” She hissed, waving her hand. After she waved her hand, a blank scroll and a quill appeared in my hands. I quickly wrote a quick, explanatory note; Rhett, I’m sorry I left, I had to run a quick errand. I will be back soon. Re Folar scanned over it and rolled her eyes. She snapped her fingers and muttered, “Exessa.” The scroll disappeared. I stared at her, “He will get it, right?” I asked hesitantly. She stared into my eyes, her turquoise eyes burning into my soul. “Does it look like I would lie?” She growled deeply. I blinked, “No…” I squeaked. She turned on her heel and swept off into the dark forest. I followed silently, biting my lip. As we treaded along, I felt energy in the air around me, swirling and brushing against my cheeks. I shivered, knowing that I wouldn’t be back soon as I had said. I touched my symbol hand lightly, staring down at it. It didn’t glow or burn like it usually did when I touched where the symbols were. “The Brambles…” I whispered, remembering what it had spelled out earlier. I closed my eyes and heard Folar gasp. I stared at her, her eyes were wide and scared. I looked down at my hands and to my surprise, my hands, arms and legs were covered in glowing, blue symbols. I realized my wings were spread and I turned to look at them, they were glowing white with blue tips on each, silky feather. I looked back to Folar, who had fallen to her knees, “W-What? That… That’s impossible!” She stammered, blinking rapidly. She stood up, her knees shaking, “You stop that right. Now.” She snapped, her eyes frightened. Something came over me, “Arbor Waters.” I murmured, running a finger across the original symbol. A second later, I was hovering over Arbor Waters, the sky dark with clouds. I looked around as if Folar had followed me, but she was nowhere to be seen. I was no longer glowing blue, but my wings were still blue-tipped. I flew to my cabin to see Rhett. When I got to my cabin, Rhett wasn’t there and the note lay open on the chair where he was sitting when I last saw him. I looked around for any clues to where he went. I blinked, thinking hard. I looked at my hand and the symbols were glowing, once again I could read them. “The Bird”, is what it read. I raised an eyebrow. “What?” I wondered aloud. I heard a loud boom outside. Running out there, I saw Folar and Rhett locked in combat, using spells like mad. Rhett constantly muttered things to keep zapping spells at Folar whereas Folar was just dodging his spells. She moved with extreme grace. Rhett was angry and when he saw me he rushed over. He put an arm around me and spread his wings. I pulled away, “Wait. I have to finish this.” I said to him. He looked confused and watched as I walked up to Folar. She stared at me, her eyes full of flashing anger. I spread out my wings, “Folar. You will hurt no one anymore.” I shouted, no longer scared. She just smiled, eyes flashing. “Too late! Sowead.” She yelled, bursting into flames and disappearing with the sparks. Rhett looked at me, “She’s coming after you now, no more games. You have to leave, and don’t come back.” He said grimly. I knew he was trying to protect me, but I still felt a tear trickle from my eye. He wiped it with two fingers, “I’ve already cleared the rest of the angels out, but now I know she only wants you; to get revenge and to kill you.” He added, pulling me close to him. I stared into his now black eyes. He looked away, spread his wings and flew west. As we were flying and my hair whipped around my face in the wind, I wondered where we were going. I felt a tear drop onto my forehead and looked up at Rhett sadly. The water below faded into dirt spotted land. I saw a large log house in the center of the small isle and Rhett dropped down to the front. He set me down and put his hands on my shoulders. “I’ll come and visit you, just stay here; out of trouble.” He said, holding back tears. I hugged him tightly and sniffled, “What about my… stuff?” I asked. He sighed, “I already have it in here.” He replied stiffly. I stood on my tip-toes and kissed his cheek. He flinched, but flew off; his hand leaving my arm. I watched him until he was out of sight. I opened the door with the key that was stuck in the lock already and stepped inside, breathing the relaxing scents of light smoke and candles. I walked over to a sink and stared at my reflecting through narrowed eyes. My head was spinning, How long will I stay here? When will he come back? Why can’t I stay with him? Would he protect me? Can I even stand it? I was thinking. I was very tired and dragged myself over to the queen sized bed, falling down into a very restless sleep. In the morning, I saw Rhett sitting on the couch right outside my room. I ran over to him and sat next to him, putting my arms around him. He stroked my hair, staying silent for a while. Then, he spoke, “Folar has killed two of our warrior angels.” I stared up at him, “Why? When?” I asked. He didn’t make eye contact, “To get to you. Last night.” He answered. He stared into my eyes worriedly. I got up and brought him some coffee, “Wanna go on a walk?” He offered. I nodded, picking up my hot tea and following him out the door. On our walk, we talked about how often he would visit. He said that he would try to come every other day, but he couldn’t be here all the time because he had to protect the other angels. I yawned and we walked back, enjoying the fresh smells of the beautiful nature which surrounded us. The sun was just rising as he flew away when we got to a gold-grassed clearing. I sat down and stared into the sky where he had left, feeling the cool breeze through my hair. I stared at my hand that had started burning; the words read “The Bird” once again. I felt the long grass flowing around me as I closed my eyes, “The Bird.” I said. I heard a flapping behind me and whipped around, standing up. A small, black and silver owl was perched right next to my head on the tree behind me. It turned its head to the side and hooted softly. To my surprise, I could understand it, “Hello, my name is Artemis and I am one of your Retuys.” The owl cooed. I stared at it, “Hello Artemis. What do you mean one of my Retuys?” I asked her, holding out my hand. She hopped onto it and stared at me with wisdom. “You are the Kychan, the only angel who can save them and has more than one Retuy.” She hooted, hopping onto my shoulder. I stood up, “So… I can save the angel race? And I have more than one Retuy?” I asked. Artemis nodded. I smiled, “Them what are we waiting for?” Chapter 6- Never Again Artemis and I were flying back to Axis Isles. As we approached, I saw a swarm of angels flying east in gold and silver armor. I didn’t see Rhett anywhere. What was going on? I hovered where I was, wondering what to do when a streak of black flying around me caught my attention. I turned, trying to see who it was, but there was nothing there. A beat of wings behind me made me whip around, but it was already gone. Artemis was turning her head, following the figure. I followed where she was looking until I recognized the angel, it was Trina and she looked angry. She stabbed at me with a javelin and psychotic speed, and I muttered, “The Brambles.” My symbols and wings lit up and I flew around her, I noticed that Artemis also lit up and the same symbols flashed on her silver face and talons. Trina looked shocked and I dove at her, grabbing the javelin. I swung it at her, slashing her cheek. Blood sprayed onto my arms and on Artemis as well as all over Trina. Another figure caught my eye as Trina fought to stay steady, I immediately recognized Kihina, Trina’s sister, trying to cast a spell; her hands rolled and her fingers moved as a light formed between them. She opened her blue eyes and hurled the light-ball at me, I dodged poorly and got hit in the shoulder, falling down towards the tumbling waves. Trina and Kihina dove at me, Kihina handing her sister a spare spear. Trina stabbed at me rapidly while Kihina casted spells to make the spear glow with flame. I was very confused and yelled above the noise, “I thought you were on my side!” They glared at me, “That was before we found out that you were the Kychan.” Kihina hissed ominously. Trina snarled, “You aren’t worth the time, this Kychan is the only one that is weak. I can’t believe that Lady Artemis would choose her.” I glanced at Artemis in confusion, but she was pointing her glowing talons at Trina. Artemis slashed across her eye and Trina screamed, breaking Kihina’s concentration and allowing me to fly away, only to be stopped by Jessica and Olivia, the two prissy girls who paid no attention to me when I was with Rhett. They were dressed in black robes that cut off above their knees. They were smiling at me and stared with narrowed, black eyes. Jessica flipped her long, black hair over her shoulder, “Look what the cat drug in Olivia, dear.” She taunted. Olivia snickered and put a hand on my cheek, “What is this? The one and only Kychan of this century?” She sneered, slapping me with the same hand and laughing with her twin. Jessica smiled, “We better bring her to Mistress Folar, she is well missed.” She hissed, still smiling. Olivia cackled and twirled her finger in a small circle in the air. “The Gold,” She hissed. In an instant, I was tied tightly up in gold rope, along with Artemis. Jessica picked the tiny owl up, “Oh, look who’s so tough now.” She tormented, “Lady Artemis, How could you be so… adolescent? To lead this pitiful thing as well as yourself into a trap? Oh, but you knew this was coming, didn’t you?” Olivia stared at the silver and black owl, “Lady Artemis, Lady Artemis.” She mocked, flicking her finger back and forth. “So young, so weak. Oh, if only Mistress Folar was in your place as goddess among angels.” Artemis didn’t do a thing; she just stared at them with golden eyes. Jessica and Olivia looked at each other and nodded, diving down to a majestic but evil looking fortress. We entered the large, black fortress and two guards in black and silver armor stared at us, razor-sharp spears in hand. I shivered as we walked by. Artemis was in Jessica’s hands while I was drug by Olivia. We walked through the extensive main hall to a court-like room with a large chair opposite of the door; there sat Folar with a black crown perched on her perfect hair. She smiled when she saw me and stood up, “Ah. At last, Re. Where have you been?” She sneered. Her turquoise eyes glittered maliciously. “We have missed you.” She strode up to me and lifted my chin up with a long finger. “The Kychan, huh? I would have never guessed. But I guess Rhett had concealed you well.” She mused. “Well, speaking of which…” She snapped her fingers and three guards brought our Rhett, bruised and bleeding. He had his head down. I started to run towards him, but Olivia knocked my backward into a nearby table. I stumbled up, my head spinning. Artemis hooted, grabbing Folar’s attention. She swung around and stared at the owl, “Artemis. You think you are so humble, taking on that form, don’t you?” She said spitefully. She growled, “Well, I will take on your position quite easily then, won’t I?” She smiled and turned back to me, “Guards! Take her to the dungeon. But leave the little owl. Olivia,” She turned to her, “Unbind her.” Olivia nodded once, “Yes, my lady.” She twirled her finger counter-clockwise, “The Gold,” She repeated. I was loosed from the bindings and thrown into a dirty cell. I stared out of the tiny-barred window at a lake. The moon was reflecting from the still surface. I saw an animal crouching by the shore and squinted to see it better. It was large, and furry; but before I got a better look, it ran off. I leaned back against the wall to which I was chained. I closed my eyes and muttered, “The Bird.” But nothing happened. I looked around and bit my lip. What has Folar done to her? Where is she? I wondered. As I organized my thoughts, I watched the scarlet sun rise slowly. When the sun was fully visible in the crisp morning sky, a guard passed by and tossed stale bread at my feet. I reached to grab it, but my hands where chained and I couldn’t reach it. The rats scurried out and devoured it before I could do anything. The guard laughed and walked away. I sighed, “What exactly can a Kychan do?” I wondered aloud. My hand burned like crazy and I looked down at it, it was glowing dark red. I could read the letters that it spelled, “The Kychan.” I frowned, “But that’s what I just said.” I complained to myself. I sighed, “The Kychan.” I said, almost demandingly. I heard an explosion and I was out of the fortress, the cell that I use to be in flames. I hovered in the air for a moment and muttered, “The Brambles.” I lit up and flew down, past the guards and into Folar’s court. I landed next to her and kicked her down when she was still turned towards Rhett. I put my foot on her back, “Folar. It’s over.” I snapped, snatching her crown. She grabbed my foot but I stepped on her hands. She screamed and the guards came rushing in. “The Bird.” I muttered. Artemis came screeching out of the rafters and stunned the guards with a spell that emitted from her talons. She perched on my shoulder. I smiled and put my hands together, fingers entwined. “Now Folar, give up before I make you.” I demanded. Folar smiled, “No.” She hissed hoarsely. I heard Rhett cough and saw guards around him. Folar opened her mouth, but I kicked it. She whimpered. Artemis was keeping more than half the guards under control with a force field. I scanned through my options quickly glanced the symbols. I bent down next to Folar and whispered what I read, “The Soul.” The guards exploded and disappeared. Folar was thrown across the room and slammed into the opposite wall with such impact that it left a dent. I walked over and crouched down next to her, “Now do you give up?” She laughed, “Never,” snapped her fingers and disappeared in a flash as well as Artemis. I paced in front of Rhett, wondering where she was. I wanted revenge for Artemis. I sat down next to him and wiped some blood from his face gently. He was staring, unblinking, at his feet, as if mesmerized. I sighed and let my hand rest on his arm. Putting my head on his shoulder, I stared at the ceiling. My hands, arms and legs lit up with symbols. I spread my now glowing wings and read what my right hand’s symbols said; “The Rose,” is what it read. I tried to pick up Rhett and it worked, the Brambles spell allowed me to have the strength to. I carried him to a tower and laid him on the bed. I flew out the window and looked around, “Payback time Folar!” I yelled. “The Rose,” I muttered. I had a vision of where Folar and Artemis were. As I sped through the air like a bullet, I realized that if I rushed in, Artemis would only be in more danger. I stopped and looked below me; a small island. I saw the place that was in the vision and plummeted down there. When I got into the large shack, no light was to be seen. I heard footsteps behind me and turned to look, the door had been closed. I scowled, “Where are you Folar?” I demanded in a harsh tone. “Hush.” An ominous, whispered voice said into my ear. I whipped around and lashed out; but nothing was there. I shivered, almost afraid except all that I had been through made me tougher, in my opinion. “Where are you?” I demanded loudly. The voice hissed, “HUSH!” I shrank back, glancing around. My eyes flashed dark red, not in anger though. “Where are you?” I repeated quietly. No answer. I straightened up and looked around once more, spotting two silver eyes staring out from the shadows. “I need your help.” The voice said.

The Axis Angels
Chapter 1 - The Daze

A whirlwind of the night before blew into my head as I awoke in a small, white-sheeted hospital bed. The walls around me seemed to close in as I closed my eyes again. I moaned softly, “Walls,” the very thing I dreaded. Walls meant being caged which lead to the enablement of flying. If you’re wondering what in the world I’m talking about, my name is Re, I’m seventeen and I’m the last angel on Earth. At least, that’s what I believed before last night. Last night… the night that changed my whole world. You see, before last night, I thought of the world as my backyard, I could go anywhere I wanted, do anything, anytime. But that all changed. As I sat up, I replayed the events of last night from the beginning; I had just finished by steaming bowl of spaghetti when I heard a crash outside, not too far from my small, two-story house. I couldn’t care less though. I hovered up the stairs, not an inch from touching the floor, and sat down on my bed to read yet another, ridiculous teen magazine. Another crash emitted from just outside my window, my heart fluttered with surprise. I wasn’t scared; don’t get me wrong, but just a little… anxious. I flipped open the cover of the magazine and tried to concentrate on the small words filling the page. I had almost zoned out the distraction, when a boom made me jump. It sounded like it was inside my house. I gulped audibly and walked to my bathroom to renew my lipgloss, a way to take my mind off things. After I was satisfied, I walked back to my room, having convinced myself that it was my wild imagination. I closed my eyes, lying down and wrapping my wings around myself. A few seconds later, the flapping of wings blasted into the room. “We found you,” a hoarse, eerie voice called. I opened my eyes and stifled a scream. A few feet from my face hovered two, black banshees staring my in the eyes with their empty sockets. Now, you may not know a lot about banshees but to sum it up, they are u-gly. And to put a cherry on top of this wonderful scene, they had knives. But they weren’t holding them, their hands were knives. I shivered and spread my wide, white wings out to their full wing-span in an attempt to intimidate them. I blinked. When my hazel eyes opened again, the banshees were gone. I laid down and stared at the ceiling. Just a dream, I thought. I was wrong. Yet another crash awakened me not 10 minutes later. I spoke angrily in rapid German under my breath. Looking around, I stood up, slipping on my thin, light pink robe and flew downstairs. The back porch light flicked as always as I landed lightly on my bare feet. A sharp pitched squeal came from the front yard. I flew to the window and my eyes opened in awe, changing from hazel to dark green. Outside in my yard, a boy, around 18 years of age, stood, his dark hair whipping around his face in the breeze. The banshees did not accompany him; they were nowhere to be seen. I stared for a minute and then noticed a pair of white, gold-tipped wings folded neatly against his back. An angel! I though with great surprise mixed with fear. Like me… He turned, and for a split-second, our eyes met, his chestnut brown, mine dark green. Something about him, his hard look or rippling muscles or both, told me that he was dangerous. I ignored my common sense to stay away and walked to my front door, opened it and walked up to him. I had my wings concealed and he made his invisible at my first movement, although humans shouldn’t be able to see anything special. But there are a handful of them on Earth, such as my best friend Dheai, which could. I stared him in the eyes and scowled, “What do you think you are doing in my lawn?” I questioned, making it perfectly clear that he did not have permission to be there. He blinked, looking taken aback, “Uh… clipping your bushes.” He replied hesitantly in a rough voice, doubt flashing visibly in his eyes. I raised an eyebrow, “That’s strange. I don’t remember hiring an angel to garden for me.” I shot back. His eyes widened slightly, but barely visible. “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He muttered, staying firm. I rolled my eyes. “I saw your wings. Don’t act like you don’t know.” I said, getting annoyed. He smiling, trying to charm me. “Now isn’t a pretty young girl such as yourself supposed to be in bed by now?” He said his voice like honey. I scowled harder, “No way are you going to treat me like that! I’m seventeen!” I raised my voice, thoroughly annoyed, but not enough to draw attention. He raised his hands in a sign of innocence. “Sorry, sorry.” He said, his eyes turning gold. I pointed it out, “Your eyes changed color. You are an angel.” He sighed, giving up. “Alright, you must be one of those humans with the Sight.” He admitted. I stepped back, raising an eyebrow. “Now, now. I assure you, I am no human.” I smiled, stretching my wings out. He gaped at me, “But that’s impossible!” He gasped, face flushed. “All the angels left in the world are in the Axis Angels.” Just as I was going to ask what these “Axis Angels” were, the banshees came back. They always know how to ruin a party. I was scratched and clawed at until I lay, bleeding on the ground. The boy stood over me, protecting me from the banshees until they exploded back to their world, Under-Deep. I passed out, my last memory was him looking at me over, inspecting my wounds.

I shook my head to get out of the daze of the past. “Was it a dream?” I wondered aloud for a second before realizing it couldn’t have been since I was still in the hospital room. My mother walked in, peering in from behind the door before coming in. She was a tall woman, six-five. Unfortunately, I didn’t get her height, or my father’s. I was a mere five foot at age seventeen. Her dark hair rolled down her back and over her shoulders in tight curls. At least I got that trait from her. We both had the same, dark hair with natural curls. Her eyes were green, whereas my father’s were blue. But of course, since me being an angel, my eyes changed color usually with my mood but I haven’t figured that out yet. She was dressed in jeans and a casual t-shirt, as always she was never formal. Her eyes were deep green pools of worry, staring into me as if she could read my mind, which sometimes I believed she could. “How do you feel?” she asked, biting her lower lip slightly with concern. That’s her, always concerned. “I feel fine. Thanks for coming in to check on me.” I replied, faking a small smile. I didn’t feel fine at all, the scratches stung and the bruises were pounding. She smiled back, letting out a barely audible sigh of relief. “Actually I came in here to tell you that your grandmother flew all the way from New York to see you.” She said, perking up. Ouch. That hurt. So she wasn’t in here to check on me. I narrowed my eyes slightly, but I felt special that my grandmother, who lives in New York, would fly all the way to Nevada, where I live, to check on me. Or is this just another message? I smiled wider. “Thanks. I’m a little hungry, can I get something?” I asked, really just trying to get her out of my hair. She smiled and nodded, “I’ll be back with your breakfast.” She said, walking out of the room with the grace that never left her. I laid back down, wings aching from lack of room. The IV pumped some sort of clear-less liquid into my hand and I cringed at the sight, since I couldn’t really feel it. By the time my mother came back in, I had organized my thoughts so that I could get out of here. She handed me a plate of eggs and bacon. I realized how famished I actually was and started eating; barely noticing that she was still there, watching me. I finished and looked up at her, smiling genuinely. “Thanks for the food.” I said, meaning it. “When can I get out again?” I asked. She shrugged and smiled, “Right now if you want.” She said. Bingo, I knew it already since I had read the papers on the table nearby, but it was part of my plan. Besides, she couldn’t know that I was prying. I blinked, thinking through my plan. “Is my truck outside?” I asked. She shook her head, frowning a bit. “I thought you knew that I brought you here. That’s alright. Would you like me to take you home?” She offered. Boom, just like that my plan was shattered. I desperately tried for something, anything to buy time. “Could you go get it?” I asked. If you’re wondering where I plan to go, I’m going to find that boy. But I can’t let my mom know. She doesn’t even know I’m an angel! My mom nodded slowly, “Alright, but stay here until I come back.” I nodded, crossing my fingers behind my back. “Of course,” I said. I waited five minutes after I watched her car drive away before going up to the doctor, with my IV, and signing myself out. Ten minutes later, I was free, with a band-aid on my hand from where the IV had been. They took it out without trouble, but I couldn’t say the same for myself. It hurt and I had to dig my nails into the palm of my other hand so that I didn’t scream. I turned the corner and prepared to take off in search of the boy, but no need I ran right into him. I jumped back, “What are you doing here?” I said, angrily. He smiled in a charming way. “Well, seeing as you are falling all over me, I’d ask the same thing.” He said, his slight accent clear in his voice. I scowled, “What?! I just bumped into you, on accident!” I replied harshly. He brushed a piece of hair behind my ear, his fingers not touching my skin. I turned away, “I don’t even know your name, why are you kissing up to me.” He laughed softly, “I’ve not kissed you though.” He said, a look on his face. I rolled my eyes, which were icy blue. “I should hope you will never.” I snapped back. “I just want to you what your ‘Axis Angels’ are.” I said, stressing the words “Axis Angels”. His grin disappeared, “It’s an organization where angels can live freely, away from earth, and learn their inner Retuy.” He replied, “It is peaceful and no humans can go there. And if that’s all you wanted to know…” He turned around and spread his wings to fly. I ran in front of him, “Wait. I’m confused. Where is it? What is a Reetoo? And how many angels exactly are there?” I said, my mind still scattered anyways. He smiled, “So you want me to stay?” We took a walk, talking about the Axis Angels. “So the Raytu is an inner power that only angels can possess?” I said. He laughed, “You’re still not pronouncing it right. It’s Re-too-e.” He said, saying each syllable slowly. “But yes.” I repeated it, “Re-too-e?” He smiled and nodded. “Hmm. But what about where they live?” I asked. He looked at the clear-watered pond beside us, “The After-Lights is where we live.” He replied patiently even though I had asked many times. “After-Lights?” I repeated. “Where’s that?” He looked thoughtful, “Where an angel’s wings take them.” He replied. That was confusing. But I didn’t say anything. I just watched the ducks splashing about at the bank of the pond. So the Retuy are powers. After-Lights is the place. There are many angels other than myself. How could I not know all this? How did they know? Why did he leave the After-Lights in the first place? Why did he come to my house? Why didn’t he answer my questions about his name? Questions swirled endlessly in my head. But I didn’t bother to ask any more. He would find a way to dodge them. “I have to head home.” I said finally as the sun rose in the sky, heating up the world below. He nodded and walked away without a word. That’s a nice goodbye. I thought sourly before flying back to the hospital and walking in. Chapter 2 - The Threshold

My mother, standing at the counter, was frantic. Oh great… I thought, cringing. She turned around at the opening of the automatic doors. I stood just a few feet away from her. She ran to me and hugged me. She stepped back, hands on my shoulders, and her eyes pierced into me. I gave her a weak smile, “Hello?” I murmured. She frowned, “Where were you, Rey-linia?” She demanded. I flinched at the sound of my full name. “I went for a walk to get fresh air.” I replied calmly. It wasn’t a lie. She let out a sigh, “You nearly scared me to death.” She scolded. I bit my lip, “Sorry?” I offered. She swatted the air as if to shoo my apology away. “Why didn’t you tell me?” She asked, tapping her foot. I knew she wouldn’t get too mad, but I still felt worry bubbling in my stomach. “I… knew you wouldn’t let me.” I admitted. She sighed again, “I got your car. But you need to rest when you get home.” She said. I nodded, more than happy to. I hugged her and ran upstairs to get my bag. I walked through the open door into the small, white room and grabbed my camo messenger bag, slinging it over one shoulder. I took one more breath and ran downstairs, to my mother who was still waiting at the counter. She signed a few things and I signed my name, full name, at the bottom of a small stack of papers before leaving. I pulled into my driveway, knocking over my trashcan. I got out, sighing dramatically, and leaned down to pick up the trash bags. I heard one, sharp pitched whistle behind me and turned around, dropping the bags. The boy was standing there, leaning against the one, thick tree in my front yard. I rolled my dark blue eyes at him. “Will you stop stalking me? I know you won’t answer my questions.” I said, leaning against my car with one eyebrow raised. He smiled, “But I can’t stop stalking you. You’re just so easy to stalk.” He walked towards me as he said it. I turned away and walked to my door, digging in my jean pocket for my keys. I heard jingling behind me and turned sharply around. He was swinging them around on one finger. “Looking for these?” He asked with a charming smile. I frowned and lunged for them, brushing him lightly. I grabbed them and landed on my feet, only because I used my wings to steady myself. I glared at him, sweeping past him quickly. I unlocked the door and stepped inside, but I tripped on the threshold and he caught me around my waist. I pulled away from him. He looked at me with soft eyes. “What? No thanks?” He asked. I sighed, “Thanks.” I muttered. His smile returned. “Can I… come in?” He asked. “No.” I snapped, slamming the door in his face. I didn’t bother to lock it, he wouldn’t come in now. I walked into the kitchen and poured myself some hot tea. I sat down, legs crossed, on the couch and sipped the tea. Going through my head, I eventually fell asleep on the couch, forgetting almost everything after a few minutes in my exhaustion. I woke up, yawning, finding that boy sitting on the velvet chair across from me. My now red eyes widened, both embarrassed and infuriated. “Why. Are. You. Here?” I demanded, standing up to my shaky legs. He stood up also, striding over to me, probably ready to catch me if I fell. “You left the door unlocked, I figured you wanted me in here.” He said, his eyes flashing slyly. I rolled me eyes as they turned hazel. “I figured that you wouldn’t be that stalkerish.” I snapped. He touched my hand lightly, “You need to brush your hair.” He muttered. I ran upstairs, “Don’t change the subject.” I said as I quickly combed through my long, dark hair. Since it was naturally curly, I brushed through it and the curls sprug up through the tangles. I sat on the top stair, staring at him. “What do you want?” I said, trying to seem casually. What’s his problem? He can’t just break in! I thought. He sighed, “I want you to join the Axis Angels.” He said, his usually icy blue eyes turning deep green. I hesitated. My own kind is there. I wouldn’t have to put up with humans. But my mother is here… What would she think? What about my father? But… I have to. I have Retuy… I think. I want to meet other angels. I thought, trying to make up my mind. But before I even knew what I was saying, I answered. “I will.” He brightened, his eyes returning to blue. “I didn’t think you would. But come with me.” He said. I flinched, trying to organize my thoughts. What have I done? was the only thought that I could grasp. I stood up and followed though. He crouched next to the threshold, the one I tripped on, and touched it lightly. He traced the doorframe and it sparked. He stood up and held out his hand. “You coming?” He asked. I bit my lip, “Do I need to, you know, pack anything?” I asked, feeling foolish when he smiled at me. He shook his head and I took his hand. It was warm and mine were cold. I blushed as he tightened his grip and led me through the door. The world swirled around me as I stepped over the threshold. He didn’t let go and I could feel his hand around mine, but I couldn’t see him. I squeezed my eyes shut and urged myself not to get sick. I tightened my grip on his hand. I heard his gentle voice, “Spread your wings.” I did as I was told, my large wings spreading to their full wingspan. I immediately felt wind hit me and my hair tumbled about my face. I opened my eyes, feeling at ease. And saw him next to me, his gold-tipped wings spread. We were over a vast opening of water, no cliffs or anything around us. “Where… where are we?” I whimpered. He smiled and flew closer, “Over Arbor Waters.” He replied softly. “We are heading to Axis Isles.” I nodded, not fully understanding. The waves were comfortingly swishing far underneath us. I could hear the never-ending, soothing sloshing of the water. I saw, in the distance, many peaks of land peering over the horizon. He pointed to them. “Those are the Axis Isles.” He said, smiling. I smiled shyly back. As we approached, I saw a huge, gray house in the middle of the largest isle. He turned to me, “Fold your wings and land in that grove of trees.” He ordered, pointing to a grove of willows. I nodded, folding my wings neatly on my back. I immediately plummeted down to the grove. I neared it and when I was about to crash, I spread my wings, pulling violently back. I landed lightly and rubbed my back, where my wings met my shoulder blades. They were a little sore from the jolt and I cringed when I touched it. I felt a strong breeze as he landed next to me. “Nice landing.” He commented sarcastically. I resisted the urge to retort and walked over to him. “Now what?” I demanded. He shook his head, smiling. “You sure are in a rush. Follow me.” He replied, walking left into a small gap in the beautiful, dangling branches of the silver-tinted willows. I followed quickly, emerging into a village of white cabin-like houses. He turned to me, “Re, welcome home.” I sat in my new cabin. It was nice; white, silky bed, white walls, white and gold desks already full of clothing, a beautiful white couch and two matching chairs, a fully-stocked bathroom. I couldn’t ask for more. There were willows growing around my cabin and a river swirled by outside. I was tired and my wings were sore, so I curled up on the king-sized bed and fell asleep. My dreams were mixed, mostly that boy, my memories entwined in them. It was peaceful and even in my slumber, I could hear the river flowing, lapping at the bank. I awoke from my rest and sat up, running my fingers through my hair. I stared at the couch and chairs, no stalker. I walked into the bathroom and renewed my lip gloss, relieved to find no stalker there either. I walked back into the main room and changed, after making sure that the door was locked and drawing the shades, into a white and gold dress that flowed down to my knees. There weren’t any shoes around except for my black and silver tennis shoes that I had brought with me, so I figured that I wouldn’t have to do much walking. There was a silver laurel on my desk but I decided not to wear it because it was too chichi. I walked out of the cabin after finding the silver keys in the first drawer of my desk and locked it behind me. I sat on a sturdy branch of a willow and watched silver and white butterflies flutter around carelessly. One white landed on my shoulder and I smiled at it, feeling calm. It seemed to blend in with my silky dress. I reached out to touch its wing lightly and it didn’t move, letting me brush it delicate with a finger. It’s so trusting. I wish I had a life like this little guy. I thought, narrowing my eyes in the pleasure of the silence except for the calm beating of tiny wings around me. After an hour, a heavier beating of wings aroused me from my trance. The butterfly on my shoulder fluttered away. I slung down from the branch, hitting the ground lightly. He was standing in front of me, the stalker. I still didn’t know his name, which aggravated me more-so that him stalking me. I decided to ask if he didn’t have anything better to say. He stayed silent, looking me over with an eyebrow raised. I put my hands on my hips, annoyed. “Will you say something? Like maybe… telling me your name?” I snapped, walking towards him a few steps. He smiled, “You look like an angel.” He commented. I narrowed my eyes, not from pleasure, though emotion stirred in me. “I am. And you’re dodging my question.” I growled. He just smiled wider, obviously pleased with my annoyance. “My name’s Rhett.” He said, brushing my hair back from my face. I smacked his hand away. “Alright, Rhett. Where are the other angels?” I asked. He dropped his hand to his side, “At the meeting I came to get you for.” He replied coolly. I raised an eyebrow, “Well, why am I not going?” I asked. He shook his head, smiling still. “’Cause you are here.” He muttered, taking my hand before I could reply. Chapter 3 – The Meeting

We arrived at the gray house on the large isle, landing silently at the doorstep. He opened the gold, glass door for me and beckoned me in. I hurried in, desperate to make the meeting. I looked up at the huge dome ceiling with pictures of angels painted on it. Gold statues were crammed around the bottom of the dome in little niches carved into the white marbles walls. The floor was slick and beautiful. The building seemed to give of an ancient vibe, making me feel small and adolescent. Many bookshelves, made from a shining, black metal lining the walls, were crammed with books that had ripped and crumpled pages in them that looked obsolete. An elderly man in a blue-silver robe stood at a marble counter in the center of the main room. Rhett strode up to him and I walked in his shadow shyly. He muttered something to the man and the man smiled at him and then at me. We went left, leaving the man at his post, and into a room that looked much like a conference room. Angels filled the plush, leather seats that packed the room. I sat in the back where not many angels were and stared at the stage at the opposite wall which Rhett was heading to, his strides effortless. I leaned against the back of my chair, resting my head on the wall as I listened to the hushed murmurs rising when Rhett stepped up to the microphone. I winced when his voice came booming around the stadium-like room, which also had a large dome ceiling covered with murals of scenery. The meeting droned on, Rhett and the old man, whose name I had found out was Justin, talked about angels winning awards and some sort of classes. My name never came up. I half-expected that someone would announce my joining at every word. I had begun to get bored with Justin when Rhett returned to the microphone, “And also, I would like all of us to welcome Re, the newest member.” The murmuring gossips that had been persisting throughout the meeting hushed and it seemed all the angels looked around at me. I blushed and tried to look casual and not notice. The murmurs became active again and I heard my name multiple times. Rhett left the stage and made his way back to me, his black vest standing out in the rest of the white, gold or silver things in the room. He sat next to me and didn’t make eye contact. I was very put out, but didn’t say anything. The meeting was over and Rhett bid goodbye to everyone who left the room. Justin stayed and cleaned with a few angels who were dressed in silver, though. Rhett parted from the room, grabbing my hand. I snatched it away and made my way to the door. I left him in the back of the bustling crowd, but when I got out of the exquisite building, I waited for him, leaning against the wall. I tapped my foot like my mother would have done to me. He looked at me innocently, “What?” He said, reaching for my hand again. I pulled it back, “You just had to call me out on that.” I snapped. He frowned, looking confused. “But you wanted me to, I know you did.” He said. I looked at him, wondering how he would know. He smiled slyly, “Oh, I haven’t told you yet. That is my Retuy, to read minds.” He explained. Everything became clear then, I stared at him. How did I not figure that out before?! I scolded myself in my head. He frowned, “It’s okay. You didn’t know.” He said. Wow this was getting annoying, him knowing everything. I blinked my long eyelashes once before pushing past him to go to my cabin, not finding anything else to say. He stepped in front of me, making me bump into him. I stepped back, scowling. He smiled at me charmingly. “Oh, come on. It’s not that bad. Anyways, you have to sign up for classes.” He said, taking my hand. I found it useless to pull away, and half didn’t want to, so I let him lead me to an elegant brick building with a gold plaque on it that read, Class Sign-Ups. I sighed, how obvious, I thought and pushed the door opened to get in. He followed, a smile slathered across his face. I rolled my eyes and saw two twin girls at a counter, both with clipboards in their hands. They both had gray eyes, long black hair pulled up in a ponytail and a silver dress that fell in waves to their knees. They were both smiling at Rhett, seeming mesmerized. One said, “Welcome. I’m Olivia. What can I do for you?” The other one elbowed her, a look of jealousy on her face. She smiled affectionately at Rhett, “I’m Jessica. How may I help you?” She offered in an alluring voice. Rhett smiled in an enchanting way. This disgusted me. “I just need to sign up for some classes.” I barged in, stepping in front of Rhett. He put a hand on my shoulder and I didn’t take interest in it. Both stared at me in disbelief, but Olivia, I think, stepped up to me and shoved a clipboard into my hands. “Fill it out.” She said in an, oh-so-obvious, fake sweet voice. I smiled and walked out, dragging Rhett with me. They watched him go ruefully. We sat high in a dense fir tree filling out the papers, him explaining each one to me. I was interested in archery, the first one on the list, but I didn’t think I would be good at it. “Don’t worry. All angels are good at archery, well mostly. It’s only if you enjoy it.” He said reassuringly. I stretched my wings out a bit, they were stiff. I stared at the word, archery. Something about it was calling me. I nodded, “Okay. Then I will take archery, combat and riding. Is that okay?” I asked, looking into his eyes. He smiled and nodded slowly, “But you also have to take Retuy class.” He added softly. I nodded again and checked that off too, feeling his eyes bearing into me. I handed him the clipboard and flew to my cabin, feeling uncomfortable. I sat down on the couch, curling my legs under me. I wrote the day’s events in a gold-glazed journal. I felt like I needed to, so that it would be easier to review my thoughts and memories. My mother always said I needed to, she always had. It made me think of her, and a dark sadness enveloped me. I curled up tighter as if to fend it off, though it didn’t help. I stared out the window at the rising moon and let myself drift into a restless sleep. I woke up, extremely tired, and sat up painfully. Every muscle on me screamed in protest and I cringed. A knock on my door fully aroused me from the daze. I stammered over to my desk to brush my hair before opening the door, a white blanket wrapped around my shoulders. Rhett stood outside, he stared at me with amusement. He stifled a laugh and bustled me back inside, “Get ready for your classes at noon. Breakfast is waiting in the Commons Hall.” He said, slipping out of my cabin and closing the door. I sighed and flitted into a silver dress that fell smoothly to my thighs. I set the very chichi, silver laurel on my rolling brown hair. The curls were twisted in my dark hair; I tried to brush them out, but it didn’t help. I sighed. This is as good as it’s going to get, I thought to myself. I walked out the door into a new day. The classes flew by; archery was a breeze, combat class wasn’t too hard, riding class was okay since we only brushed pegasi (the plural of pegasus), but then there was Retuy class. It was difficult, but Rhett was the teacher. As soon as I walked into the dimly-lit, roomy hut, I felt a gust of power. My right palm stung. I walked to the side of the crowd and tended to cling to the sides. Rhett droned on about the powers. Blah, blah, blah. We already went over this stuff on our walk. Then it got interesting; “The newbies get Current-Bands to awake their inner Retuy. Current-Bands kindle and assist you as your Retuy gets stronger until you don’t need them.” Rhett said. A hush fell over the crowd as excitement hung in the air. He jumped down from the small stage and over to the other door, that went out to a large, outdoor field padded with dirt. As I walked by him, his eyes flashed to a deep green. He gave me a charming smile and winked. I rolled my eyes, “What?” I asked. He smiled wider, “I am your private mentor after this class; stay here after everyone leaves.” He said. I could tell he was holding back a laugh. I refrained from a snide comment. “That’s… peachy.” I replied calmly and pushed past him. I sat on one of the benches that framed the large area. Guys that were in black vests and jeans came out and picked out a group of three to start training. I was chosen by Rhett, along with two blonde girls who looked like sisters. I smiled weakly at them and stood especially close to Rhett; something about them made me wary. We started the training by getting a silver-gray bracelet that was extraordinarily fitting even though they all seemed to be the same size and it fit everyone else. I guess it was some angel thing I didn’t know about and pushed it to the back of my thoughts. Rhett tended to pay more attention to me, than the other girls. “Hey.” I said to them. One of them smiled, she was the shorter one, shorter hair with blue eyes. “Hello, I’m Kihina.” She said sweetly. The taller one, with hair to her shoulders and dark blue eyes, looked away. I think she rolled her eyes, but I couldn’t tell. Rhett spoke up, “We ready girls?” The two girls stared at him dreamily. I nodded, unamused. Rhett smiled at me and spoke again, “We are going to test and try to see what your inner Retuy may be.” He said in a calm, soothing voice. The two girls nodded eagerly. I sighed, nodding once. He set a short glass in my hand and handed the two other girls two more glasses. They smiled and took it from him, careful to touch his hand. He gave them a small smile and they looked at each other excitedly. I couldn’t believe this. What’s with girls? I’m not like that! I thought. I caught Rhett’s eye as I was thinking; he knew. I held the glass boredly until he finished showing the girls how to hold their glasses. Even though I knew they knew how to. He stood in front of us and muttered something under his breath. Kihina’s glass shattered and she dodged every piece. She stood there, looking shocked, her sister stared at her. Rhett nodded once and smiled. I stared, mouth gaped open, shocked at what just happened. Kihina didn’t seem to know either. Her sister looked almost more surprised than me. Rhett escorted startled Kihina to a bench and she sat there, looking blanking into the distance. Rhett muttered something to her as me and her sister exchanged confused looks. I looked back at Rhett who was approaching us. He smiled again and looked at Kihina’s sister. “Trina, your sister has a form of InterCut.” He informed her. Trina smiled and nodded. “That’s a powerful Retuy. Will I be the same?” She replied calmly. This was mindboggling; didn’t anyone find this just a little strange?! I just stood there awkwardly. Rhett looked thoughtful for a moment, “That’s what I was wondering. But I don’t think so, since your glass didn’t crack. Obviously your spirit currents don’t match.” He said, still looking thoughtful. Trina frowned, “Will… will I still be as powerful?” She wondered. Figures, I thought, she’s just worried about power. Rhett shot me a quick look. I rolled my eyes. He nodded slowly to Trina, “Probably, unless your parents spirit currents weren’t connected.” He reassured her. She smiled brightly and didn’t say anything else. He beckoned for the glasses and Trina and I handed then to him. The next test was with a Chinese fan. It was intricately painted with black ink. I spread it but Rhett darted me a glare. I quickly closed it and kept it in both hands in front of me, like Trina was doing. Rhett stood in front of us and put two fingers on each shoulder, he muttered something that sounded like, “Actoo.” But I couldn’t make it out. Trina suddenly burst into the air and did a series of rapid actions. Rhett looked impressed. She landed, crouched, with one hand on the ground and the other behind her back holding the fan. I stared at her and backed up. Actually, I might be getting used to this madness. Trina fell into Rhett and he caught her, trying to hold her steady. I watched, not sure if I could help. Trina eventually straightened herself and blinked at Rhett a few times. Rhett smiled at her and Trina blushed, “I… I have InterReact. Don’t I?” She said softly. Rhett frowned a bit, “It looks like it, except one thing. InterReacts don’t have balance and you obviously do.” He replied, his voice a bit guarded. I stared at them, I don’t care what she has! I want to know what my Retuy is! I thought angrily and tapped my foot quietly. After Trina and Rhett had finished a conversation that bored me to death and make no sense, Rhett turned to me and took my fan without asking. I stared at him as he was walking away, “Do you know what my Retuy is? Since you’re all psychic and all?” I asked. He turned on his heel and walked back, “We’re done for today. You can go back to your quarters.” He said, his voice low. I could tell that something was on his mind, even if I wasn’t psychic like him. I stomped back to my cabin. I slammed the door behind me and sank down onto the couch, scowling. How dare he! I didn’t find out what my Retuy was! What is this? A joke? Are they trying to make me look like a fool?! I bet it’s a prank. I should get out of here. I thought, trying to make sense of the whole thing. I grabbed my suitcase and stuffed it with anything I could get my lithe fingers on. I paused when my hand reached the silver laurel. My fingers tightened around it and then released it, slipping back to my side. I turned my head to the side, seeming to feel a sort of aura wavering from it. I straightened my head, feeling at ease and started unpacking my back slowly. I wanted to go talk to Rhett for some reason. I sat on the edge of my bed and gently eased down after awhile and fell into a calming sleep.

Chapter 4- The Shin`a I woke up the next morning with heavy heart. I didn’t feel like doing anything, but I drug myself to breakfast and got a cup of hot, chamomile tea. I sat on my couch, sipping the steaming drink and staring at the door. I expected Rhett to burst in any second like he always did. But the minutes ticked by and he still didn’t come get me for today’s classes. He said he would and he hasn’t lied… yet. Or has he? Did he, has he, lied to me? I thought, staring down into my cup. No. He wouldn’t. I frowned, not believing myself. A stiff knock on the door aroused me from my thoughts. I smiled, pushing the doubts away as I strode to the door and opened it. But my smile disappeared as it revealed not to be Rhett, but a girl. She had feathery, gold that flowed to her waist in waves. Her eyes were pure turquoise, burning into me uncomfortably even if she was smiling. She had an olive complexion and smooth skin. Her clothing was a silky cloth draped over her shoulders and dropping to her ankles. I narrowed my eyes, too perfect for my taste. I thought distastefully. She narrowed her eyes slightly as well, smiling all the while. “Hello. My name is Folar. I will be your Shin`a.” This was just peachy. Not only was she absolutely perfect, but she was smart and laid-back as well. I suppose we got along well because I seemed to be snappy and she endured it. We kind of balanced each other out; when she was shy, I would speak for her. When I got snappy, she calmed me down. I even started to like her. But she was my Shin`a. A Shin`a was not an angel, but they were there to help you with your Retuy, protect you from things I had no idea and no one would tell me and to introduce me to the world of the angels. Well, the last one was really just for newbies like me; but more advanced angels had them too. She wasn’t supposed to be my friend, but I guess you could call us that. Folar walked in front of me; leading me to a place she called the Arena of Tort. I followed her, staring at my feet. Arena of Tort, huh? I wonder what, or who, Tort is. I thought absentmindedly as I walked. I bumped into her and my head snapped up. She turned and scowled at me, “Re. You bumped into me again. Please look where you’re going.” She scolded, her eyes flashing. I scowled back, straightening up. “Sorry. Let’s just go to this Arena you’re talking about.” I said, my apology obviously sarcastic. She ignored the sarcasm and down some stairs that looked like they were carved into the earth. I followed her into the rock and looked around, blinking to try to adjust to the lack of light. A blaze materialized in front of me. I covered my eyes and then lowered my hand to adjust to the sudden light. I scowled at her but she just smiled, “Would you rather no light?” She said, reading my expression. I rolled my eyes when she turned around and followed her reluctantly. We entered a large, empty room with a domed ceiling and a flat floor. There were bright torches lining the walls, lighting up the entire room. In a few minutes, we had started practice. Folar was icily calm and I was skittish. I tried to stay calm and still, but I was just so excited. I was almost jumping up and down like a two year old. I stared at her, waiting for her to make her move. We were apparently practicing hand-to-hand combat. She walked around me and although I didn’t move, I was watching her. She suddenly lunged at me, I had sensed that she would before and leapt to the side. I stared at her on the ground and reached out a hand. “You okay?” I asked, bending down. She looked up at me, her beautiful turquoise eyes full of surprise. “How… How did you know that I was going to lunge? I put a spell on you so that you wouldn’t know.” She spat out, taking my hand warily and turning it over in her’s. I stared at her, raising an eyebrow. “Uh, I kinda sensed that you would.” I replied, kind of freaked out with this attention. She traced my palm with a long, black painted fingernail. A spark spread across my skin, making it burn. I yanked my hand back and rubbed it. “Ow! What was that for?!” I demanded, staring hard at her. She drew back in shock, “I… I’m sorry. I didn’t know. What did you… feel?” She asked hesitantly as if I would attack her. I frowned, “A kind of spark and burn. It hurt, and I can still feel it.” I answered, not sure what to expect next. Folar’s turquoise eyes turned white-blue and she turned on her heel. She stomped off and I followed, not wanting to stay here alone. Once she left, the torches went out and I scampered quickly after her. I sat in my ivy-covered cabin, staring out the window with a cup of steaming tea. It smelled like cinnamon and helped me think. Folar hadn’t told me what she was talking about in the Arena, or why she had gotten mad for some reason. I took a sip of my tea, not caring if it burned my tongue, and remembered her eyes changing color. I thought only angels could do that... And what about her spell-casting, is she some sort of witch? I didn’t think Shin`as were mages too… I got lost in my thoughts until I fell asleep with my head on the window. The next day, my hand hummed with energy. It wasn’t necessarily bad, but it was strange and it almost hurt. I stared at it in bed, sitting up. I turned it over and was surprised to see faint, blue symbols on the back of my hand. I blinked twice, thinking I was seeing things, and they were gone. I shook my head, telling myself that it was just my imagination. I got ready and as I was brushing my hair, the familiar knock on the door came, hard and with purpose. Rhett, I thought smiling. I pulled my hair back into a ponytail and walked to the door, opening it. Rhett stood there with a crooked smile on his face. I smiled back, “Where were you for the past week?” I asked trying to sound strict but I couldn’t, I was too happy. He smiled bigger, “I was with my Shin`a. Were you with yours? Did you meet her?” He asked, pushing a piece of his hair out of his warm, brown eyes. I stepped out, closing the door and nodded. “Folar. She’s nice. But she did something yesterday during our lesson… It confused me.” I replied. Rhett frowned, “Tell me.” He said. We walked around the island, mostly on the beach and talked. Dolphins played on the waves and gulls shrieked at us from the vast blue sky. Rhett didn’t seem to think it was any different from any other lesson. “She probably just got a hint of your Retuy and doesn’t know what it is. She doesn’t like to not know things.” He said. I believed every word, it made sense. Although, the blue symbols on my hand from this morning still tugged at me, I hadn’t told him. He picked up on it and looked at me, with a confused look. “What are you thinking about?” He asked, his voice low. I looked up at him, “Nothing.” I said, turning away and walking a bit further down the beach. He caught up to me and stood in front of me. “No, really. It could be very important.” He said, seeming tense. I blinked at him, “Uh… I had some symbols on my hand this morning, that’s all.” I said, sounding nonchalant. He stared at me, “What color?” He asked. I almost laughed, did it really matter? “Blue.” I said anyway. He blinked twice, “Did Folar touch that hand?” He asked, his voice quickening. I nodded, “She touched my palm after I dodged her lunge. It sparked and burned a little when she did though.” I said, starting to get interested. Rhett took my hand and flew back to my cabin. I held on around his neck, trying to keep up. He smiled, set me down and flew off at top speed. I walked to the river and sat down, not sure what to do. I picked up a stick and drew in the mud until lunchtime. Rhett came back to me and picked me up without a word. He was flying in the direction of… Earth. I stared at him, “What are you doing? Where are we going? Where’s Folar? Rhett answer me!” I said, trying to get him to say something. He just stared forward. I shivered and put my head on his chest, I had no idea what he would say next. We got to Earth somehow, I still had no clue how, and he set me down in my old front yard. I held on to his hand, “Why am I here?” I asked, my voice was shaking. He stared down at me, “Folar put a tracking device in you. She’s trying to get you to join… something. She isn’t a Shin`a. How could Justin let that slip past him?” He replied grimly, half talking to himself. I stared at him with wide eyes. “B-But…” I started. He put a finger to my lips and slowly his hand fall back to his side. “You can’t come back to Axis Isles. I’m sorry.” He said and I thought I saw a tear fall from his eye. I blinked, the tears were going to come sooner or later. “Can… you stay… with me?” I asked, the first tear falling. He shook his head, letting go of my hand. I watched as he flew off, not sure what to do. I walked into my house, getting the spare key from behind a certain brick in the wall and unlocking the door. The house smelled like wax and smoke. I guess mother came by, I thought absentmindedly. I walked to the couch and found myself thinking about Rhett. You heard him, I thought angrily, I can’t go back. Ever. He doesn’t want me there. And Folar is some evil witch. How could I think that I would live “happily ever after” there? I eventually began to think that I didn’t belong there and that I was meant to be an angel on Earth. I seemed to except my “fate” and curled up on the couch, although I was unable to sleep. Morning came slowly; I watched the sun rise from my back porch, wrapped in a black velvet blanket. I ran my fingers through my hair in a failed attempt to smooth it down. The light hanging from the ceiling swung lazily in its usual rhythm. Everything was almost normal, if the thought of Rhett and all the other angels wasn’t nagging me so much. I laid down and fell into an uncomfortable and restless sleep. A pale silver butterfly woke me up, landing on my nose. I stared at it, wondering if it was a dream. I looked around and realized I was in the willow tree. Did I dream that I went back home? Did I just fall asleep up here? I thought, allowing the dainty butterfly to light on my finger. I heard the snap of a twig and the crunch of dead leaves behind me. I turned around and realized I was facing a large, dark forest of dead trees and leaves blanketing the ground. I looked down and Folar stood there, smiling up at me. She held her hand up to me, “Ready for your lesson?” She asked. I nodded, a little confused. Did I dream that she was evil too? I thought as I took her hand and jumped down from the sturdy branch. She held on to my hand and I suddenly remembered that that was the hand that had the glowing blue symbols on it. I smiled at her, cautious still. My mind raced, wondering what to do. This can’t be a dream. I told myself, it’s too real. I walked beside Folar, who seemed to be leading me farther away from the grove. “Stop!” I heard firmly from behind me. Folar and I reeled around simultaneously to face stern-faced Rhett. He caught up, since Folar didn’t run, she just stood there smiling, and put a protective arm around my waist. “Folar. Where do you think you are taking her? Why did you take her from her home?” He demanded, keeping me close. I stared at her, and then at Rhett. Folar smiled sweetly, “What are you talking about? She belongs here.” She said, her voice reminded me of blooming flowers. Belongs here? I shuttered slightly. Is she a mind reader too? I stared at her. Rhett frowned more deeply, “Folar,” He said in a warning voice, “I would suggest leaving her alone.” Folar narrowed her eyes, “But she’s my apprentice.” She retorted, walking over to me to take me from him. I didn’t move but Rhett took action at once. He held his hand out in front of her and muttered, “Shweree,” Quite clearly. Folar flew back and hit a tree. Rhett took me in his arms once more and flew me back to my cabin, muttering under his breath. I saw Folar open her eyes slightly… they were blood-red. Chapter 5-The Brambles and the Bird I sat in my cabin, knowing Rhett locked the door. I sighed dramatically and stared at him. He was sitting in the chair across from me, tapping his fingers on his leg and staring out the window. “What was that?” I asked. No answer. “What was that?” I repeated. He glanced at me, “What was what, Re?” He asked, his voice weary. I walked over to him and sat in the chair next to him, resting my hand gently on his arm, “Those spells, how Folar got me here and what your Retuy is,” I replied, not sure what his reaction would be. He inhaled deeply, “‘Those spells’ were what saved your life. Folar got you here by her own magecraft. And my Retuy is…” His voice faded and his eyes were closing. He seemed tired so I let him drift to sleep as I paced and wondered. I hummed to myself softly and sat down on the corner of my bed. My hand suddenly started burning again and I stared at it. To my surprise, the symbols made sense. They spelled, in elegant writing, “The Brambles”. I stared at it and shook my head. The burning sensation was over and I could no longer make out the symbols. I looked over at Rhett, “What does it mean?” I muttered, wondering what he would say. He would probably say that I was crazy, I thought, staring down at my legs. I closed my eyes and saw Folar. Is she using her magecraft to get in my mind? I wondered. She approached me, “Welcome Re.” She said, her voice like bells. I stared hard at her, narrowing my eyes. “Welcome? You’re in my mind.” I snapped, “What do you want with me?” She smiled and narrowed her eyes also. “Oh, just to find out what your Retuy is, just a few more lessons.” She replied, her turquoise eyes glinting. I frowned, “Rhett says that you’re not a Shin`a. And I’m not going to believe you over him.” I growled. She raised an eyebrow, her smile disappearing. “Oh did he?” She said, a part of her sweet voice threatening. “Well, we can at least find your Retuy and then I can leave you alone.” I scowled at her, “And Rhett?” I asked, tapping my foot. She raised part of her lip in disgust, “I’ll… let him go, if, and only if, we find your Retuy. Otherwise, I will claim him and you will never ever see him again.” She growled back, clearly not wanting to let him go. I walked along in the dark, trailing along behind Folar. Her long hair was tied back in a high ponytail with gold lace entwined through it. My hands were twitching, “F-Folar?” I stammered. She whipped around, eyes gleaming in the luminescent moonlight. “What?” She snapped, putting one hand against a nearby oak tree. I gulped inaudibly. “Can I, may I, write a note to Rhett to tell him what’s going on?” I asked. She smiled, but her eyes were narrowed in an intimidating way. “Fine. I must review it though.” She hissed, waving her hand. After she waved her hand, a blank scroll and a quill appeared in my hands. I quickly wrote a quick, explanatory note; Rhett, I’m sorry I left, I had to run a quick errand. I will be back soon. Re Folar scanned over it and rolled her eyes. She snapped her fingers and muttered, “Exessa.” The scroll disappeared. I stared at her, “He will get it, right?” I asked hesitantly. She stared into my eyes, her turquoise eyes burning into my soul. “Does it look like I would lie?” She growled deeply. I blinked, “No…” I squeaked. She turned on her heel and swept off into the dark forest. I followed silently, biting my lip. As we treaded along, I felt energy in the air around me, swirling and brushing against my cheeks. I shivered, knowing that I wouldn’t be back soon as I had said. I touched my symbol hand lightly, staring down at it. It didn’t glow or burn like it usually did when I touched where the symbols were. “The Brambles…” I whispered, remembering what it had spelled out earlier. I closed my eyes and heard Folar gasp. I stared at her, her eyes were wide and scared. I looked down at my hands and to my surprise, my hands, arms and legs were covered in glowing, blue symbols. I realized my wings were spread and I turned to look at them, they were glowing white with blue tips on each, silky feather. I looked back to Folar, who had fallen to her knees, “W-What? That… That’s impossible!” She stammered, blinking rapidly. She stood up, her knees shaking, “You stop that right. Now.” She snapped, her eyes frightened. Something came over me, “Arbor Waters.” I murmured, running a finger across the original symbol. A second later, I was hovering over Arbor Waters, the sky dark with clouds. I looked around as if Folar had followed me, but she was nowhere to be seen. I was no longer glowing blue, but my wings were still blue-tipped. I flew to my cabin to see Rhett. When I got to my cabin, Rhett wasn’t there and the note lay open on the chair where he was sitting when I last saw him. I looked around for any clues to where he went. I blinked, thinking hard. I looked at my hand and the symbols were glowing, once again I could read them. “The Bird”, is what it read. I raised an eyebrow. “What?” I wondered aloud. I heard a loud boom outside. Running out there, I saw Folar and Rhett locked in combat, using spells like mad. Rhett constantly muttered things to keep zapping spells at Folar whereas Folar was just dodging his spells. She moved with extreme grace. Rhett was angry and when he saw me he rushed over. He put an arm around me and spread his wings. I pulled away, “Wait. I have to finish this.” I said to him. He looked confused and watched as I walked up to Folar. She stared at me, her eyes full of flashing anger. I spread out my wings, “Folar. You will hurt no one anymore.” I shouted, no longer scared. She just smiled, eyes flashing. “Too late! Sowead.” She yelled, bursting into flames and disappearing with the sparks. Rhett looked at me, “She’s coming after you now, no more games. You have to leave, and don’t come back.” He said grimly. I knew he was trying to protect me, but I still felt a tear trickle from my eye. He wiped it with two fingers, “I’ve already cleared the rest of the angels out, but now I know she only wants you; to get revenge and to kill you.” He added, pulling me close to him. I stared into his now black eyes. He looked away, spread his wings and flew west. As we were flying and my hair whipped around my face in the wind, I wondered where we were going. I felt a tear drop onto my forehead and looked up at Rhett sadly. The water below faded into dirt spotted land. I saw a large log house in the center of the small isle and Rhett dropped down to the front. He set me down and put his hands on my shoulders. “I’ll come and visit you, just stay here; out of trouble.” He said, holding back tears. I hugged him tightly and sniffled, “What about my… stuff?” I asked. He sighed, “I already have it in here.” He replied stiffly. I stood on my tip-toes and kissed his cheek. He flinched, but flew off; his hand leaving my arm. I watched him until he was out of sight. I opened the door with the key that was stuck in the lock already and stepped inside, breathing the relaxing scents of light smoke and candles. I walked over to a sink and stared at my reflecting through narrowed eyes. My head was spinning, How long will I stay here? When will he come back? Why can’t I stay with him? Would he protect me? Can I even stand it? I was thinking. I was very tired and dragged myself over to the queen sized bed, falling down into a very restless sleep. In the morning, I saw Rhett sitting on the couch right outside my room. I ran over to him and sat next to him, putting my arms around him. He stroked my hair, staying silent for a while. Then, he spoke, “Folar has killed two of our warrior angels.” I stared up at him, “Why? When?” I asked. He didn’t make eye contact, “To get to you. Last night.” He answered. He stared into my eyes worriedly. I got up and brought him some coffee, “Wanna go on a walk?” He offered. I nodded, picking up my hot tea and following him out the door. On our walk, we talked about how often he would visit. He said that he would try to come every other day, but he couldn’t be here all the time because he had to protect the other angels. I yawned and we walked back, enjoying the fresh smells of the beautiful nature which surrounded us. The sun was just rising as he flew away when we got to a gold-grassed clearing. I sat down and stared into the sky where he had left, feeling the cool breeze through my hair. I stared at my hand that had started burning; the words read “The Bird” once again. I felt the long grass flowing around me as I closed my eyes, “The Bird.” I said. I heard a flapping behind me and whipped around, standing up. A small, black and silver owl was perched right next to my head on the tree behind me. It turned its head to the side and hooted softly. To my surprise, I could understand it, “Hello, my name is Artemis and I am one of your Retuys.” The owl cooed. I stared at it, “Hello Artemis. What do you mean one of my Retuys?” I asked her, holding out my hand. She hopped onto it and stared at me with wisdom. “You are the Kychan, the only angel who can save them and has more than one Retuy.” She hooted, hopping onto my shoulder. I stood up, “So… I can save the angel race? And I have more than one Retuy?” I asked. Artemis nodded. I smiled, “Them what are we waiting for?” Chapter 6- Never Again Artemis and I were flying back to Axis Isles. As we approached, I saw a swarm of angels flying east in gold and silver armor. I didn’t see Rhett anywhere. What was going on? I hovered where I was, wondering what to do when a streak of black flying around me caught my attention. I turned, trying to see who it was, but there was nothing there. A beat of wings behind me made me whip around, but it was already gone. Artemis was turning her head, following the figure. I followed where she was looking until I recognized the angel, it was Trina and she looked angry. She stabbed at me with a javelin and psychotic speed, and I muttered, “The Brambles.” My symbols and wings lit up and I flew around her, I noticed that Artemis also lit up and the same symbols flashed on her silver face and talons. Trina looked shocked and I dove at her, grabbing the javelin. I swung it at her, slashing her cheek. Blood sprayed onto my arms and on Artemis as well as all over Trina. Another figure caught my eye as Trina fought to stay steady, I immediately recognized Kihina, Trina’s sister, trying to cast a spell; her hands rolled and her fingers moved as a light formed between them. She opened her blue eyes and hurled the light-ball at me, I dodged poorly and got hit in the shoulder, falling down towards the tumbling waves. Trina and Kihina dove at me, Kihina handing her sister a spare spear. Trina stabbed at me rapidly while Kihina casted spells to make the spear glow with flame. I was very confused and yelled above the noise, “I thought you were on my side!” They glared at me, “That was before we found out that you were the Kychan.” Kihina hissed ominously. Trina snarled, “You aren’t worth the time, this Kychan is the only one that is weak. I can’t believe that Lady Artemis would choose her.” I glanced at Artemis in confusion, but she was pointing her glowing talons at Trina. Artemis slashed across her eye and Trina screamed, breaking Kihina’s concentration and allowing me to fly away, only to be stopped by Jessica and Olivia, the two prissy girls who paid no attention to me when I was with Rhett. They were dressed in black robes that cut off above their knees. They were smiling at me and stared with narrowed, black eyes. Jessica flipped her long, black hair over her shoulder, “Look what the cat drug in Olivia, dear.” She taunted. Olivia snickered and put a hand on my cheek, “What is this? The one and only Kychan of this century?” She sneered, slapping me with the same hand and laughing with her twin. Jessica smiled, “We better bring her to Mistress Folar, she is well missed.” She hissed, still smiling. Olivia cackled and twirled her finger in a small circle in the air. “The Gold,” She hissed. In an instant, I was tied tightly up in gold rope, along with Artemis. Jessica picked the tiny owl up, “Oh, look who’s so tough now.” She tormented, “Lady Artemis, How could you be so… adolescent? To lead this pitiful thing as well as yourself into a trap? Oh, but you knew this was coming, didn’t you?” Olivia stared at the silver and black owl, “Lady Artemis, Lady Artemis.” She mocked, flicking her finger back and forth. “So young, so weak. Oh, if only Mistress Folar was in your place as goddess among angels.” Artemis didn’t do a thing; she just stared at them with golden eyes. Jessica and Olivia looked at each other and nodded, diving down to a majestic but evil looking fortress. We entered the large, black fortress and two guards in black and silver armor stared at us, razor-sharp spears in hand. I shivered as we walked by. Artemis was in Jessica’s hands while I was drug by Olivia. We walked through the extensive main hall to a court-like room with a large chair opposite of the door; there sat Folar with a black crown perched on her perfect hair. She smiled when she saw me and stood up, “Ah. At last, Re. Where have you been?” She sneered. Her turquoise eyes glittered maliciously. “We have missed you.” She strode up to me and lifted my chin up with a long finger. “The Kychan, huh? I would have never guessed. But I guess Rhett had concealed you well.” She mused. “Well, speaking of which…” She snapped her fingers and three guards brought our Rhett, bruised and bleeding. He had his head down. I started to run towards him, but Olivia knocked my backward into a nearby table. I stumbled up, my head spinning. Artemis hooted, grabbing Folar’s attention. She swung around and stared at the owl, “Artemis. You think you are so humble, taking on that form, don’t you?” She said spitefully. She growled, “Well, I will take on your position quite easily then, won’t I?” She smiled and turned back to me, “Guards! Take her to the dungeon. But leave the little owl. Olivia,” She turned to her, “Unbind her.” Olivia nodded once, “Yes, my lady.” She twirled her finger counter-clockwise, “The Gold,” She repeated. I was loosed from the bindings and thrown into a dirty cell. I stared out of the tiny-barred window at a lake. The moon was reflecting from the still surface. I saw an animal crouching by the shore and squinted to see it better. It was large, and furry; but before I got a better look, it ran off. I leaned back against the wall to which I was chained. I closed my eyes and muttered, “The Bird.” But nothing happened. I looked around and bit my lip. What has Folar done to her? Where is she? I wondered. As I organized my thoughts, I watched the scarlet sun rise slowly. When the sun was fully visible in the crisp morning sky, a guard passed by and tossed stale bread at my feet. I reached to grab it, but my hands where chained and I couldn’t reach it. The rats scurried out and devoured it before I could do anything. The guard laughed and walked away. I sighed, “What exactly can a Kychan do?” I wondered aloud. My hand burned like crazy and I looked down at it, it was glowing dark red. I could read the letters that it spelled, “The Kychan.” I frowned, “But that’s what I just said.” I complained to myself. I sighed, “The Kychan.” I said, almost demandingly. I heard an explosion and I was out of the fortress, the cell that I use to be in flames. I hovered in the air for a moment and muttered, “The Brambles.” I lit up and flew down, past the guards and into Folar’s court. I landed next to her and kicked her down when she was still turned towards Rhett. I put my foot on her back, “Folar. It’s over.” I snapped, snatching her crown. She grabbed my foot but I stepped on her hands. She screamed and the guards came rushing in. “The Bird.” I muttered. Artemis came screeching out of the rafters and stunned the guards with a spell that emitted from her talons. She perched on my shoulder. I smiled and put my hands together, fingers entwined. “Now Folar, give up before I make you.” I demanded. Folar smiled, “No.” She hissed hoarsely. I heard Rhett cough and saw guards around him. Folar opened her mouth, but I kicked it. She whimpered. Artemis was keeping more than half the guards under control with a force field. I scanned through my options quickly glanced the symbols. I bent down next to Folar and whispered what I read, “The Soul.” The guards exploded and disappeared. Folar was thrown across the room and slammed into the opposite wall with such impact that it left a dent. I walked over and crouched down next to her, “Now do you give up?” She laughed, “Never,” snapped her fingers and disappeared in a flash as well as Artemis. I paced in front of Rhett, wondering where she was. I wanted revenge for Artemis. I sat down next to him and wiped some blood from his face gently. He was staring, unblinking, at his feet, as if mesmerized. I sighed and let my hand rest on his arm. Putting my head on his shoulder, I stared at the ceiling. My hands, arms and legs lit up with symbols. I spread my now glowing wings and read what my right hand’s symbols said; “The Rose,” is what it read. I tried to pick up Rhett and it worked, the Brambles spell allowed me to have the strength to. I carried him to a tower and laid him on the bed. I flew out the window and looked around, “Payback time Folar!” I yelled. “The Rose,” I muttered. I had a vision of where Folar and Artemis were. As I sped through the air like a bullet, I realized that if I rushed in, Artemis would only be in more danger. I stopped and looked below me; a small island. I saw the place that was in the vision and plummeted down there. When I got into the large shack, no light was to be seen. I heard footsteps behind me and turned to look, the door had been closed. I scowled, “Where are you Folar?” I demanded in a harsh tone. “Hush.” An ominous, whispered voice said into my ear. I whipped around and lashed out; but nothing was there. I shivered, almost afraid except all that I had been through made me tougher, in my opinion. “Where are you?” I demanded loudly. The voice hissed, “HUSH!” I shrank back, glancing around. My eyes flashed dark red, not in anger though. “Where are you?” I repeated quietly. No answer. I straightened up and looked around once more, spotting two silver eyes staring out from the shadows. “I need your help.” The voice said.

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