Mizuki laid there awake ina weak state. Each day his body got stronger and he was able to walk little ways with out any help so at least that was a bonus. Even though his bind began to drift off to sleep he couldnt help but awaken more as he heard the conversation between the two siblings take place.

Mizuki knew that Thalion would return eventually he just didnt think it would be that soon let alone the whole time they were together recovering he didnt get a word out of the male. Did Thalion blame him for everything that happened? Of course he did why wouldnt he. Mizuki was the one that faultered and all because of that they almost died.

Even with his dark thoughts Mizukis heart broke a little as he heard Thalion speak. Nothing has changed "I thought it had" He said his voice strong with hurt and sadness. When questioned about what he was speaking of Mizuki turned his head and looked right at Thalion "I thought things had changed" He said sternly his ears dipping back "Though I guess that was just my mind giving me what I wanted close to death" He said softly as he turned his head the other way and closing his eyes he sighed.

Thal wasn't expecting Mizuki to speak, for once he had wished the other didn't hear anything and he could have just walked out. Why did how Mizuki had said what eh did hurt so much, it was stupid for it to. Nothing had changed, he was so sure of it so why bother trying to make things right again. It had nothing to do with it being Mizuki's fault or not, honestly he blamed himself more than the other.

"What has changed than? You still don't forgive me for what happened over a hundred years ago." It was easy to tell that during their trip Mizuki was still mad about how Thal told him let alone the fact he left in the first place. Though Mizuki never said anything else to him, not even a hint that he was thinking to reply.

"If things had changed than... You know what, forget it." He shook his head before leaving the room. If he was in pain he was hiding it rather well, though that wasn't too uncommon. Verdia sighed looking towards Luna before sitting back down in a chair. Something was going on here and she couldn't put her finger on it. Sure Thal wasn't the type to get close to many people but it seemed like a friend that he hadn't seen in over a hundred years, let alone one he had told her about that he regretted leaving the way he did. It was like he was pushing away on purpose. Not her concern though.

The words hurt and Mizuki felt the pain. Closing his eyes he held back the tears. Was it foolish of him to think that things had changed? No he was sure they had. Maybe it was not the biggest change but there was change and he knew it. Closing his eyes he pushed everything to the back of his mind. If nothing had changed then so be it he would make sure that it stayed that way.

After that day it was far and few between that Mizuki saw Thalion but he knew that the male was still here. The king was throwing a ball and Mizuki knew for a fact that all the guard was there. Sighing he moved to the edge of the bed. It had been over six weeks since that night and Mizuki couldnt get it out of his head. Having Thalion return to the guard was something else Mizuki thought of. Having not spoken to the male since then he thought of what would come of the evening.

"You need to get ready" Luna said from behind him snapping from his thoughts "Yeah I know...I need help with the hair though" He said looking to her "If I am being presented as the knew medical lead I need to look the part right" He said with a smile "And plus my fingers are not the greatest still" He said with a little frown "Dont worry" Luna said walking over and grabbing the brush "We will make you look like the mages of old" She said with a smile.

Something had changed, Thal knew that but he wasn't about to admit that he was wrong. It wasn't anything drastic but they could talk at the least. Not that they did unless forced to pretty much. Though lucky him Mizuki seemed to stay away. Verdia lurked at the castle as well something about a new medical lead.. seeing as she was one of the clerics she was required to be there. If he had been thinking logically than he knew who the new lead was.

Though he was not overly excited about the event to be honest. He was going to be stuck in the damned uniform, the one that probably most of the guard didn't wear unless it was a event like this one. Though why bother with it if they were out scouting or on a mission really. But a simple task was fine... standing guard seemed easy enough, besides things had been more than hectic trying to play catch up with the work that he seemed to fall behind on.

Sighing a little a human was assigned with him, though these two commonly got in trouble if left to their own for too long. "Out of all the jobs..." The man groaned. "anything would be better than this, goblins, bandits. Even dealing with sewer rats." Thal laughed a little listening to him go on and on. "I don't think I mind a easy task for once." The other male seemed to stop and look at him. "My god.. Thal saying he was happy to not be fighting?" They were guarding the side entrance way so it wasn't like it was busy or anything.

He quickly put a hand on Thal's forehead before being batted away. "I'm not sick, can't I like a break once in a while?" The human shrugged a little. "They've done it, its official they've broken the elf. Whatever you do Thal don't go towards the light.. wait your a drow. Don't go towards the dark." He laughed a little noticing the glare from Thal.

"Both of ye need not worry." It was the commander as he walked up to the two. "Yer not gonna be standing 'ere all night. Just for a few hours." Thal groaned at the thought of it. "Can I take a double shift?" Though the answer was no. "Why would you want to stay out here? Come on the ladies love uniforms." Thal shook his head a little. "So thats why you stay single.. got it." The human smirked at him a little "Not tonight, besides there is suppose to be tons of-""-nobles and royals.. somehow I think your out of your league." Thal had a point.

Mizuki sighed after ahwile of tugging and yanking at his hair it was done up. The braid was still the main thin that was seen though smaller braids looped and held in jewels to his head. Mizuki wore white and lavender robes. Standing there with his staff he was a sight to behold. Sighing the door sounded with a knock and he groaned as the gaurd entered "Sir its time for the announcement" He nodded his head "Alright"

Leaving Luna fallowed behind him as Mizuki made his way to the ball room. He made sure to stay away for most of the event but after awhile there you cant avoid things. Heading down to the room he stood at the double doors that led to the main stair case. He would have to make his decent into the crowd as on looked gazed. Mizuki took a deep breath as he heard the anouncement made and the doors open.

Walking forward he looked at the clapping crowed before him with a soft smile before he bowed then started his decent down the stairs. Making his way through the crowd he greeted the nobles with a smile and a shake of a hand here and there. Not paying attention he made his way through the people meeting and greeting not noticing the closer he got to Thalion.

When it got closer to the time of the actual ball and ceremony announcement the two had to stop their little game of picking back and forth. Though it was a good way to waste the time during the slow periods until then. Felix was more than happy to hear that things were underway, this meant they were due to be off soon. Seeing as they had the more boring task of keeping guard during the day hours when things were still being set up so there was nothing really to do aside from making sure only those who were suppose to be there were allowed in.

Both were in the normal guard attire, consisting of the kings colors. The outfit wasn't full armor bit plenty enough to protect any of the vital points. The only main difference between the two was size, seeing as the human was from the more northern region, and the weapons they had currently. Felix having a claymore while Thal stuck more with a standard duel blade. Though oddly this wasn't the weapons he normally used for combat.

Though the peace ended when the announcement was made and the group inside the room clapped. Hardly were either of them paying attention to the name. Like Thal had to worry about who was the new lead healer. His rank ensured he wouldn't have to deal with protecting or even being near someone of that rank. Though asking the few who were around Thalion commonly he probably kept the low rank on purpose just for reasons like that. He hated the thought of being put on guard duty for some noble or over ranked prick.

"All this fuss over nothing." Felix laughed shaking his head a little. Though Thal was still not really paying attention to who was walking about let alone to Felix. If he thought he could get away with leaving he damn well would. Being in crowded places like this was something he hardly enjoyed. Let alone in this outfit... There was nothing wrong with it in truth he just preferred his normal attire over this.

"Ah there you are!" Verdia said walking over to Thal with a bit of a grin on her face. "Been a while, I was almost enjoying the quiet." Though no response from Thal was only because clerics were held in high regard and if she put her mind to it she could end him into a heap of trouble. "Least your looking well, better than when you left. I was afraid I was going to hear a report that you killed yourself or something." She shrugged a little before looking towards Mizuki as he was busy with dealing with those who flocked around him. "Least your friend is doing well. I'll miss him if they send him off anywhere." she sighed a little.

That was right she had been hanging around at the castle because of the person being appointed head of healing. Of course it was Mizuki he knew that... who else would get such a rank so quickly and out of no where. Though the moment Thal looked at Mizuki he stopped paying attention to his sisters blabber. Well till she clicked her fingers in front of him. "You alright?" Of course he told her yeah it was nothing.

"Well if you insist... maybe we can talk once your off. You know mom would like to know from time to time your alive." Of course she brought up home, why not? He told her yeah, but now in all honestly he just wanted to be out of this room. Felix questioned Thal if he knew the new head of healing. He answered he did but it was a long time ago. It didn't matter now, after this unless there was a event they would never cross paths. He needed to stop letting himself get so caught up in his thoughts as he was. Maybe he could request a location change, than the odds of running into him were next to none.

Mizuki smiled and said warm welcomes to every noble that came by and shook his hand giving him greetings as well. It was a little over whelming but Mizuki smiled and barred with it. Not watching as his feet carried him to the next lot of people he stopped for a second before he smiled "Verdia" He said lightly with a smile before bowing his head and giving the female before him a little hug.

Over the time he had spent with the female at the castle they had grown closer. Friends was okay with him. This was when he turned and looked to Thalion. The male was standing beside Verdia dressed in the royal guards uniform just as every royal guard was.

It took Mizuki a moment or two before he remembered what he was doing. Nodding his head down he looked right back at Thalion with a soft smile "Thalion" He said "Glad to see you have healed nicely" He said with a smile "I never did get the chance to fully thank you" He said lightly before Mizuki looked right into his face "Thank you...but now if you excuse me" Mizuki began getting ready to turn away.

There was a lot of things he wanted to know honestly. Like why they were almost killed, even Mizuki had to know that would have been the out come of sparing the target. As well as what did he expect to change in two days and the part of the one he was awake during. Though he kept his mouth shut, there was a time and a place for such things and well he never expected to have the place for them.

Just a few more hours than I can say I'm sick or something, any excuse would be a good one to get away from him. As Mizuki was walking away Verdai grabbed his arm and smiled a bit before walking with him. Starting some random conversation about a healing spell or what not. Whatever the reason that sight ticked at a nerve.

"That was who your suicidal partner was?" Felix had to question didn't he, though maybe it was a good thing so he could focus on something else other than his sibling clinging to Mizuki. Hell why was he even bothered by that! Mizuki had a woman around him all the time anyway. Felix seemed to catch on to Thalion's lost in thought moment as he put a hand on his shoulder. "You alright? I know what you told Verdia but your just... your acting out of it. I'm not sure if that look is one that your about to break the wall or what." He said laughing weakly.

"I'm fine, just tired." He breathed out. "But yes that is who I was force to partner with. He didn't need to thank me though.." If he wanted to thank him than fucking forgive him for leaving years ago! Tension was not even the word that began to describe what he felt whenever Mizuki was near. "Well.. good news is.. in a few hours me and you both won't have a damn care to know if we're tired or not." "Heh.. or to keep track of how many times your shot down in a night? You might be able to beat your record." Felix pouted a little saying he wasn't going to be tonight, he knew he was but that never stopped him before.

Mizuki all but ignored as Verdia attached herself to his arm as he turned to walk away. He never really did pay attention to what the female said as they walked along. He was done meeting all the nobles that he had to so there was no reason that he needed to be around the main hall for much longer but it seemed to him that Verdia was determind to keep him here. Thinking nothing of it he nodded to her as she spoke on about a healing spell.

After awhile all Mizuki thought about was how much he wanted to leave though it seemed to be near impossible to leave Verdias side "I think I shall retire for the night" He said with a little nod of his head though it was short lived as Verdia came up with some line about one more thing then he can go. "And what is that?" Mizuki asked getting an answer of a walk in the gardens.

He must admit that sounded nice "Very well but not for long" He stated to her with a nod of his head missing the smile that seemed to be on her face. As they moved along and headed into the garden Mizukis mind was at a loss. The one male that he wanted to get closer to seemed to be father away then anything. Shaking his head he looked to Verdia "Happy now?" He asked not watching where he was walking or what he was doing.

By the time Mizuki seemed done with Verdia and she tossed out a walk in the garden, Thal had been released from his post as well as Felix. They had both been outside for a long while. Felix after being shot down countless times. Thal sighed a little leaning against a railing seeing as the garden overlooked the city from this viewpoint.

He had wanted to leave hours ago but the general suggested at least staying till some of the nobles left. All for show he thought, all for show. He shook his head a little, though at the least the air was helping with the slight headache he had from drinking with Felix. Give it a few hours he'd be passed out anyway... well once he hit a bed. The thoughts dawned on him they were staying here a night before returning back to their base.

"Could almost get use to this." Joked Felix as he motioned towards the overlook a bit. "Not me... I'll stick to my no body life. Less rules." Felix laughed a little before walking past Thal. "I'm done for the night, I don't think I can take getting shot down again. "Told you that you were doomed." Felix waved him off before walking.

Felix after walking a little bit nearly was run over by Mizuki, but even being half drunk he managed to save both of them. He bowed his head a little to both of them present. "have a good evening." He said before excusing himself. If he had been a tad more sober he'd have greeted both of them properly. Verdia liked being treated in such a manner, her brother however seemed to be just the opposite.

Verdia had half planned this but with Felix gone this was all too perfect. She smiled a little as they kept walking till she saw Thal off to the side. Knowing him he had been keeping Felix company so he had at least a few drinks. There was something she couldn't put her finger on and she was ready to test it.

"I am, very much so. Though... I am curious Mizuki." she seemed to pause a little before moving to look at his face. "You get swooned over by the women yet you act like they aren't there... your heart is set on someone isn't it?" She smiled all the more moving a hand to the side of his face. Ah yes Drow females... minxes if there ever were any, though Verdia knew how to get information and she was doing just that. She had noticed the button she pushed earlier with her brother.

Mizuki not paying attention almost ran right into a royal guard though the male even a little tipsy seemed to be on his toes as his balance was caught and he kept walking just as if nothing had happened. Walking a little ways he stopped as Verdia seem to bring something to his attention. His heart was set on some one "It is...though that some one would never love me as I them" He said with a little sad smile.

Though that smile all but faded as he stood there and Verdia moved her way to infront of him. From one moment to the next he didnt know what took place all he knew was that there was a warm hand on his face and Verdia before him. What was she planning? "Verdia...look" He began lightly as he looked at her "You kind and loving...but not for me" He said lightly though looking into that face made his heart skip as it made him think of the one that did hold his heart.

Was he a fool to think that he could ever hold what was so far from his grasp? Mizuki sighed a little and closed lavender eyes before looking back at her again "I am flattered my dear truely...but" This was here he stopped not knowing how to continue with what he wanted to say.

She knew, she had figured these two out before they had admitted things. She shook her head a little. "You think I brought you out here for a simple walk don't you?" She laughed a little before moving and getting Mizuki to walk a few more paces. "That human is one of my brother's close friends, naturally that means they were both out here." She stopped before shrugging a little.

"I knew you had your heart set on someone, I was just debating on who that was. At first I thought it was Luna but I saw that wasn't right." She shook her head a little. "I understand now why he fights you so much." She started to walk off leaving Mizuki where he stood, his choice to either go talk to Thal or to return to the castle. She had kept them at a far enough distance that Thal wouldn't be none the wiser if he turned to leave.

"Trust me or not... something has changed between you two." She bowed her head a little before speaking a last time. "I bid thee goodnight. I think I shall retire for the evening." With that she started to walk away, she wanted to watch what happened but staying around probably wasn't a good idea.

She knew? Wait what was he thinking of course she knew. Sighing Mizuki thought about everything. It was all trick! But Luna? Really? That almost made Mizuki laugh though he stopped as she spoke again. Come to think of it that male was the one that was with Thalion as he was meeting and greeting all the nobles. Mizuki shook his head head as she continued to speak about everything.

What was he to do? But her words stuck in his head. Could it be that Thalion cared for him as well? No that was stupid. Thalion clearly disliked him...but what if there was a chance. As Verdia left Mizuki noticed Thalion. He was standing over by the rail. Was she really right? Mizuki shook his head. No how could she be? Turning on his heal he went to turn and leave but stopped.

Turning he looked at Thalion once more. If the male was to return back to normal duties again who knows when or even if he would get the chance to find out. Standing tall his ears bent back as his face grew hard. No. He needed to know. Walking with brisk foot falls he walked right towards Thalion. Grabbing the males shoulder he turned him "Do you care for me?" He asked.

Sure he had noticed there was a few people talking but he never paid any mind to the voices or if he knew them. Figuring it was a few nobles just out for a stroll before retiring to bed. Even as he heard foot steps he tried to ignore them. At the least couldn't he be left to his thoughts out here.

Though the steps seemed to be quick and oddly sounding like they were getting closer. About the time he was going to turn to see who was there Mizuki grabbed his shoulder and forced him to face him. Where the.. what question was that? Was he really suppose to just answer that. He thought a second before settling on the idea that he didn't care anymore, he was tired of pushing whatever absurd thoughts he had aside.

Mizuki seemed to release his shoulder after he didn't answer right away. Though as the other seemed to take the silence as a answer Thal grabbed the other before he could turn away and pressed his lips against Mizuki's. This would be a sight, the newly appointed medical lead with a common guard. The drinks earlier probably didn't help things but without them he would have just let Mizuki walk off.

He had been thinking about what he wanted or was expecting even after seeing Verdia latch onto him. Though he regained his senses after a moment as he pulled back. Well it was a bit too late to take it back, though even with the question Mizuki had he seemed to doubt he meant in that way. He looked away a little as his ears went back, he was alert probably on guard after that little stunt even though he was the one who did it. "There's your answer.."

Mizuki was stunned. That was not the answer that he was expecting. The kiss left him off guard and shocked. Not moving his eyes widened as he stood there before Thalion. He was sure that the silence was the males answer so the kiss was something different all together.

He was snapped from his thoughts as Thalion spoke saying it was his answer. So Verdia was right...Thalion did care for him. Looking at the male Mizuki noticed the dipped ears and the expression and he just realized how long he had to of been standing there silent.

Reaching forward with a pale hand he placed it on the side of Thalions face bringing the males face up and towards him as he kissed him again. This time it was not a shocked emotionless kiss. No this one was filled with all the love and want he has kept to himself for many years.

Pulling back after awhile he kept his eyes closed for a moment as he took some deep breaths "All these years I kept my love from you" He said in a breathless way "Thats why it hurt so much when you left....when you didnt tell me" He said lightly before taking a step back "I forgave you along time ago for that" He said "But my thoughts of you never returning what I felt...drove me to push you away" He said in a little laugh "I'm sorry Thalion" Mizuki said dipping his head down.

Mizuki didn't seem to say or do anything for a while. Great he had made things worse than what they were, if that was possible. Maybe retreating would be a good idea right about now, while the other was recovering from what just happened. Though he couldn't move if his life depended on it, he had been going over what he would do if he saw Mizuki again. Even if Mizuki had never said a word he thought he would have done the same thing. If he kept pushing away things would never get better.

It was about when he was giving up when Mizuki seemed to place a hand on his face before kissing him again. This one was different though. It wasn't one that was rushed into a sudden decision mixed with emotions that were forced to the side for so long as well as a fear that it wasn't returned. No this one... this was what he had wanted for some time now, even if he denied it to himself. Something that could never happen. Though he could be just making all of this up if he was passed out somewhere for all he knew.

Probably if he hadn't of been drinking earlier he wouldn't have been so bold to do the first kiss. Let alone he'd be more than on edge right now. He was so use to keeping his guard up that he wasn't sure what to do when he didn't. Listening to Mizuki talk, he should have seen it in truth. All of the hints that were there, yet he was blind or too dense to notice them until now and this was years later.

It was probably a good thing it was late, they would be left alone for this talk. Even in his current state Thal would probably clam up easily if someone were to show up. Mizuki knew that thought, he was never one to express his emotions. "Heh.. Honestly I feel a bit foolish for not noticing. Thinking back on everything I should have said something sooner." Though he had always tried to push such thoughts aside, even back than he didn't want anyone that close or that much in control of him.

That is what Verdia meant by she understood why Thal pushed Mizuki away. The one person who could get Thal to do whatever he wished if he asked it. Shaking his head a little he sighed. "Don't be, I had known for months that I was leaving. I kept trying to figure out some way to tell you without upsetting you but nothing came. I regretted not saying a word to you for years after I left. I should have, even if you were still angry back than it would have been better than just leaving."

He kept having the question come to mind of what now? Here they both were admitting feelings for the other. But to what end? Thal would have to return to base sooner or later. He wasn't a high rank to say the least so there wasn't a chance of staying around here to sort things out further with Mizuki. He laughed weakly thinking about it. "Go figure... things did change and now I can't do anything to keep them that way." Probably tomorrow he'd have to go back, it was so late already.

Mizuki stood there and listed to what Thalion had to say. Yes things could have been different but there was no point in dwelling on things now. Though Thalion made a good point as to what was to happen. This was when Mizuki got a good idea "No...you cant do anything about it" He said looking to him "But I can" He said lightly with a smile "and I dont care what you say" He said "I am going to the king and I am going with you" He said with a smile.

Though this was when Thalion began to protest and he shrugged it off taking a step forward towards Thalion he reached a hand out and brushed some hair off the males cheek "I finally got you after a hundred years..." He said softly "Your stupid if you think I will give you up that easy now" Mizuki said with a soft smile. "Unless of course you wish it that way" He said lowering his hand from the males face.

He wasn't expecting Mizuki out of all people to be rash and say he could do something about things. "Don't you dare mention me to the king, he already has me on his shit list because of that last mission." Next strike he'd be spending time in the cells below the castle. "But that's how things work." He shrugged a bit. "Apparently he was mad I nearly let his new healer die." By now he was use to the kings mood swings and random punishments and warnings without good reason, someone had to take the fall for failing. Though Thal was more annoyed the guy they were after got away. Oh if he ever saw him he was going to get revenge... Nearly losing a eye was a close enough call to ending his current career let alone what he had put both himself and Mizuki through.

He was protesting, Mizuki was better off staying here instead of following him back to base. Though he shut up when Mizuki moved a hand to brush some of his hair back. That was Mizuki alright, determined to keep what he had. He moved a hand to stop Mizuki from removing his. "No.. it's not what I want." Looks like he had no choice but to give in this time. "Do what you have to, just leave my name out of it." He laughed weakly. "I can't really be demoted anymore."

Mizuki smiled as the hand joined his to keep it where it rested though he faltered a little when Thalion said it was not what he wanted. He then smiled as he continued "Do not worry I will not mention you once" Mizuki said softly "And if he dosent agree I know some spells or herbs that will change his mind" Mizuki said with a little smile and at Thalions look he shrugged.

"What am I supposed to do...let the man I love leave when I just get him?" He asked tilting his head to the side in a questioning look. Mizuki then realized what he had said. What if this was to soon for Thalion and the male pulled back? He could try and change what he said but he knew it was to late so he might as well continue "I have...for a long time" He said slightly dipping his head down "Though I was scared if I was to tell you or show you....I would loose you worse then what I already had" He said in a sad voice.

"Remind me never get on your bad side..." That was a scary thought that he just out right said he would drug the king if he declined. Though it wasn't like Mizuki wouldn't be safe enough if he was sent there... the dwarf forces alone could handle nearly anything thrown at them. Though maybe he should warn him about that fact, sure one of the commanders was a dwarf but he wasn't sure Mizuki knew just how many he was going to have to put up with. Though elf jokes got old quick and were easy to ignore after a while. Hell a few of them he had started answering to after all the years.

But what Mizuki said next he wasn't expecting. Did he just say? He thought he had misheard him, he had a few drinks tonight it was very possible. Though when Mizuki seemed to go on and explain what he had said Thal knew he hadn't misheard anything. From the sounds of it Mizuki didn't mean to say it, not so boldly anyway. Though Thal shook his head a little before stepping closer and placing a hand on Mizuki's cheek to get his attention from the doomed look he seemed to have.

"Your not going to lose me... I wish I could say it in return but I'm still uncertain of things." He hated saying something like that, he cared he really did for Mizuki but he was weary of saying he loved the other after all the years he had forced himself to think he hated him or that anything he thought about the other hardly mattered. "I just need time, don't take that the wrong way."

Mizuki smiled and shook his head a little "No...im just glad you replied" He said with a smile "Trust me" He began "I got more tonight then I ever thought I would" He said moving his hand finally from Thalions cheek to land back at his side "Time is one thing we have" He said with a smile and a nod of his head. "Now...I do think its time to retire for the night" He said lightly before he turned "Walk with me?" He asked and smiled at the nod of Thalions head.

Mizuki and Thalion walked in silence until they reached the hall of the kings guests and Mizuki paused at a room. Turning he smiled to Thalion "I am sorry it took so long for us to be good again" He said with a bow of his head "I am once again happy" Mizuki said with a smile before leaning over and kissing Thalions cheek "Good night Thalion"

Honestly.. he did too. He knew for sure that bold move he had pulled was going to make Mizuki mad. Though it didn't... hell maybe he should drink more often. He knew for a fact he'd never would have done that if he was completely sober. Not that he didn't mean any of his words, but he was a bit more open about his thoughts after having a few that was for sure. Though when Mizuki said that it might be time to retire for the night he agreed to walking with him. Might as well they were going near the same place. Granted the knights had their own little ward they went to.

"Heh.. just a hundred some years... not long." He shrugged a little knowing that was quite a while, even for them being elves. "Good night Mizuki." He waited before moving to head toward where he needed to go. Though the thought of time was something they had. There was something he neglected to tell him even when they were younger. Knowing his sister she'd end up telling him. But there had been no signs of it so he wasn't as concerned as he should be about it either.

Mizuki smiled and retired for the night. It was to be an early day tomorrow and if he was to get the king to let him go with the platoon he needed to get to him early. Changing and bathing Mizuki went to bed with a smile and for the first time in a long time he fell asleep easy and carefree.

The next morning brought a knock to his door. Getting up he sighed before walking over to it. Opening it there was a guard on the other side of the door "Sir the king requests your presence" Mizuki sighed. Not even a day and he was already wanted by the king "Yes alright" He said before closing the door.

It didnt take him long before he was dressed and walking to the kings hall. He was softly humming to himself as he walked along the halls. His humming stopped the moment he saw Thalion standing out of the kings hall. Walking up he tilted his head "Good morning" He said "Seems the king needs more then one for something...I wonder if we are going to die this time" He said with a bad joke.

To tell the truth he couldn't sleep last night. Especially after a few hours when he got thinking about what he had said. Ok got it drinking was bad around Misuki, he started spouting out feelings and stuff so damn easily. Though before morning he did manage a few hours. After Felix nearly took the door down from walking into it. A few too many that one...

Though by morning he was just finishing with getting ready and happy to be out of the uniform might he add. Though it seemed the king had other plans as he was told he was needed. 'Great what'd I do now..' Was the first thought in his mind. What was he being blamed for this time? That or Mizuki's talk had failed one of the two. Though when he got there Mizuki was no where to be seen and he was told to wait in the hall till the King's other guest arrived. Wait he was being called guest now? Ok he was doomed.

Though he was still stuck on what happened last night when he heard someone humming before looking to see who it was. Mizuki? Something was going on here and he wasn't sure he liked it in the least. "Morning... " He sounded a bit discouraged about this. It seemed they were both called? Though Mizuki beat him to the ill humored joke that was in his mind.

"Heh.. could happen. If I'm being forced to pair up with you I might as well assume the worse." He shrugged a little. Seems they were both in the dark at the least. Though this was when the doors opened and one of the king's messengers told them to come inside. Well time for the normal protocols. He hated being around nobles and royals for this very reason, so many gestures and proper sayings. Either way the king was currently sitting in his chair as they walked towards him. Seeing as Thal had no idea why he was here he stopped around the same location as Mizuki did. Though given his rank he did what was appropriate and kneeled before the present ruler. Something told him he was not going to like this conversation.

Mizuki knelt before the king as the male spoke "Aww just the two that I wanted to see" The king said with a smile "After everything that has happened I have come to a conclusion" The king began "There is a force rising in the west. The numbers are large and it holds many a race" The king said with a frown "Though with this rises a prophecy from the south" The king once more spoke "I think its about you two" The king said before continuing.

"Two that were lost then found,
Lives being woven and bound.
Simple words could be the end,
Simple words could also mend.
One becoming two in a simple way,
Making the shadows dance and play.
Will end the darkness and bring the light,
By the brightness of a shadows night"

Mizuki thought of it before looking at Thalion then the king. What was it supposed to mean? Yeah he understood some of the things in the prophecy that made him think of them both but really? "So with that being said Thalion" He said looking to the male "You are now general of the first rank and are to leave with the army and Mizuki as your healer by night fall" The king said before standing.

"You will make your came at the western border of the lands" Mizuki looked up "In the mountains?" He asked and the king nodded "We have a base camp set up already but it needs expanding if your taking the troops" He said "That will be left to you Mizuki with your magic it should be easy" Mizuki thought for a moment before nodding his head "That is all your dismissed" With that the king left and Mizuki sighed "Okay...what the hell was that about" He said before standing.

He was listening but he couldn't even grasp at what happened let alone how fast it happened. Once the king left and Mizuki spoke he stood as well blinking a little. "Hell if I know.. I don't go around putting my fate in old sayings..." He shook his head a little still trying to grasp what just happened.

"Don't I get a say in this? I've turned down promotions for years just to be told I'm promoted... hell if I have a clue about leading." Ok he did but still he was use to training recruits not leading a army that was suppose to apparently save them. "Not only that but it wasn't a week ago he was threatening to toss me in the cells now I'm to march to the mountains... the last place I want to be."

He use to live near the mountains, its where the drow capital was, of course he hardly wanted to be near the place. "well... about things changing. This change enough for you?" He asked being a little smart about it though it was funny in a way. Seemed Mizuki got his wish of sticking with him.

Mizuki laughed a little about this thing "Yes it seems I had...but not in the way I was hoping" He said with a frown but he shrugged none the less. "Seems to me though that we now have a mission and if you dont mind there is alot of things to do before sunfall" He said with a sigh though he took the moment to kiss Thalions cheek before pulling back "Before you say it we are alone" He stated before he could protest "And second...dont know whens the next time I can do that" Mizuki said before leaving the room.

The day was long and tiring but the night was still young. Now the sun was starting to set and the sky was turning orange. Mizuki sighed as he sat on his horse looking at the sky. He had gathered every herb he could think of that had any use to him what so ever. Looking over to Thalion he sighed a little "Well...lets get this army going" He said to Thalion "Give the order...lets move out" Mizuki said with a groan.

"Well beggars can't be choosers now can they?" This was a unexpected turn of events for sure. "Here I was looking forward to going back to training." He sighed a little as Mizuki said there was a lot to do before nightfall. Though he stopped whatever complaint he had as Mizuki kissed his cheek. Though apparently the other knew him well enough that he stopped Thal's protest before he even got the chance to start it. The next comment stuck with him for most of the day. He needed to make up his mind, it wasn't fair to Mizuki with how things were going right now. Even if things were just getting back on stable grounds.

Long wasn't half of it. Thal was use to giving orders sure but he'd rather not be in the position to do so. He had his reasons for not wanting to be in such a position, besides it drew attention to himself. Getting the troops together was a task and a half on it's own. Sitting on the steed he sighed a little knowing this was going to be a trying experience. At the least the first unit he was pt in charge of was the group he was use to being with. So that made things a bit easier.

Though when Mizuki said to give the order Thal almost wanted to complain if he had to. Either way he gave the word for them to move out. Oddly when he did give orders they sounded second nature in his voice, like he was born to do just that. But if you asked him it was the worse thing to do in his life. Barking commands. At the least he knew the strengths and weaknesses of most of this group, that would make it easier as far as setting things up went.

Though maybe unlucky for Mizuki Felix was one of the soldiers. He might be woman obsessed but he'd hardly take long to catch on that there was something between the two of them. Felix was also one of the five that was next in command, so any meetings he would be there as well. At first Thal was keeping at Mizuki's side though he hardly seemed like he wanted to talk at all. After this morning he couldn't blame him, hell they were riding towards their death if this little saying the king spouted off wasn't true.

Instead Thal was bust talking over a few ideas as to placement and everything with Felix. Ok so Thal hated being in this area.. but at the same time he remembered a lot of it so it was a good thing. "Oh would you lighten up already." Felix started before Thal looked at him as if to say why. "It's not like your a bad commander, there is a slew of times you've had to take over in Bron's place." "Yeah for a day and it was for training purposes. This is a battle and all the odds tell me we're still out matched."

Mizuki sat there silently as the night moved on. With the group as large as it was there was no fear of anything or anyone causing problems so torches lit the way. Mizukis thoughts stayed with him and they were a mix of everything from the prophecy to the night before with Thalion. He didnt know what to make of everything and the more he thought of it the darker his thoughts got.

Shaking his head Mizuki sighed. He was ready to pass out and there was still aways to go. The longer they went the more his head dipped and nodded. It was not before long that his head dipped down as he passed out. Slipping to the side he began to fall off the horse.

Before he knew what happened he was on the ground with an ooff and a groan. Opening his eyes he rubbed his back "That hurt" He said as stood up cracking his back. Yes he wanted to stop and sleep but he knew he couldnt. Walking over to the horse that another male cought for him he stopped as he rested his head on the neck of the beast with a sigh.

Thal had more than a headache from dealing with placement and what troops they had. He'd love more archers or mages but they had few of each. He had noticed Mizuki seemed to be nodding off a bit but he wasn't expecting him to actually fall from the horse. Though the sudden thud moments later answered if he really would or not. Once Mizuki was standing again Thal moved to be next to him.

Felix said he'd pass some of the word along to the other four, they could have a official meeting once they made camp. Thal nodded knowing he was welcoming a break that was certain. "You ok? I have to say I've never seen someone fall asleep while mounted." He smirked a little finding a bit of humor in it. Though he was going to stay here for the rest of the trip to prevent that happening again. "Can you even get back up?" Seeing as Mizuki was merely standing there for the moment.

Thal has told Felix and the others to keep leading on, not like they were going to get lost out here. He sighed a little before moving and offering his hand to Mizuki. "If you can't ride yourself than get on, it won't due to have the healer beating himself up now will it?"

The moment he heard the voice behind him he smiled. Turning and looking behind him he saw the hand stretched out and smiled at his comment "I suppose it would be safer" He said taking the hand and with a quick yank he was on the horse behind Thalion."Thank you" He said as Thalion began to move off. "The trip is long...I thought I would of made it though" He said with a sigh.

After Thalion made his comment Mizuki smiled. Continuing with the trip Mizukis hand began to dip again and before he knew it his head was resting on Thalions shoulder and he was sleeping with his arms around Thalions waist. He didnt think of his actions just that he felt safe.

He laughed a little finding it funny that he thought this was long. "I'm sure your not use to traveling through the night, most sane people sleep." Wasn't that true, not to say Thal wouldn't be able to sleep but he was use to this type of traveling by now. Though he could tell how tired Mizuki was, it hardly took any time before the other seemed out again.

Felix ended up falling behind talking to a few of the other squad members before he ended up back near Thal. Not really on purpose but he glanced at the two before he noticed Thal already warning him without breathing a word. He flinched a little before laughing weakly. "And you say your a bad leader.. you don't even have to say anything to get your point across."

"perks of being a drow.. but don't you dare say a word." Felix shrugged a little. "Not breathing one. They should have given us more notice though. Last minute telling us to ride through the night. Some of us were nursing hangovers." He knew Thal's reply to that, don't drink that much then.

Either way any conversation seemed to not be heard by Mizuki. The other didn't even seem to stir at all save maybe a few times moving his hands a little. Thal had done similar acts like this before out during missions so it wasn't really anything out of the ordinary. He disliked anyone falling behind for any reason. Though .. this was almost because it was Mizuki.

After a while it was well into the night when they even began to see the caves come into view. At the least rest would come soon enough. Though Thal foresaw a lot of hours being spent on meeting and fixing together a plan of some sort to make them win this fight. It was almost a shame he was going to have to disturb Mizuki to get off the horse once they got there.

Mizukis head rested and moved with Thalion as they rode the horse. It was a little shocking to him. Mizuki was not used to falling asleep on moving things so when he fell asleep on his horse he shocked himself but he was glad that Thalion was close behind to show him the way. Silently Mizuki stayed there right behind Thalion as the groups headed to the caves.

It was not until they reached the caves that he was even awake again. One moment he felt the horse stop and the next thing he knew was there and he was being waken by Thalion and the male explaining that they are there in the caves "Great" He said getting off of the horse and stretching some cracking sore and stiff joints.

Looking to Thalion he watched as the male began to give orders to the men around him. Ordering for tents to be put up in order of priority The first to be put up was his and Mizuki frowned a little "Why mine?" He asked but he already knew the answer and it was the one that he got. Because he was half alseep and if he was needed he needed to rest. "Yeah yeah..." Mizuki said with a sigh cracking his neck.

"Because most of us are use to no sleep. Besides I'm not a complete idiot when it comes to how magic works." Though he knew Mizuki was going to protest but it had to be done. After things were set up a little Thal shooed Mizuki off say rest while he had the chance. Though he knew he needed rest himself before a repeat of what happened during their last mission took place.

After a hour or so things settled down finally and he was rather glad of it. Though it took another hour to explain the details of how things were going to pan out. There was a number of vantage points and he wanted to make sure they had control of certain ones for sure. Besides that the enemy was not the only thing that could be dwelling in the caves.

After sending a small group out for scouting just to insure things were safe he sighed heavily trying to think if everything was handled yet. "You seem more stressed than usual." Came the remark from Felix who was sitting on the ground near one of the fires. "Stressed is a word for it." Thal said before rubbing the side of his head. "wanta talk about it? It'll help you sleep promise." He laughed a little. "Only if I get to use something other than these." Was the remark that the human agreed to.

Ok these two talking pretty much meant they were going to spar, though over all spars probably kept Thal's quick temper in check. The weapon he was referring to was a pole arm of sorts. The end was a bit heavier than a halberd. It's not like they were going to seriously hurt the other so this was more to blow off whatever steam or pent up energy.

Seeing as Felix favored the claymore as his weapon it was a rather even match range wish. Though Thal over the years was more than able to defend against nearly any weapon from training so many of the recruits. As far as he knew Mizuki was asleep.. also most of his troubled thoughts were due to that one... not that Felix needed to know.

Mizuki had made his way to the tent the moment he weas told that it was up and waiting for him. Entering the large tent he looked around it. It was a large tent with a table and chairs in it as well as some shelves along the one side. Entering in farther he saw that there was a bed made out of furs and he couldnt help but go and fall right on them. It was no time at time before he was out cold.

The next morning brought about more activity and Mizuki was out and working by early morning no matter the amount of sleep he had from the night before. Cracking his neck as he left the large tent Mizuki sighed. He had just finished talking to the medical team and everything was set and running so he did not have to worry about that though the next thing on his mind was expanding the cave. For that he needed Thalion.

Leaving the tent where he was Mizuki began to walk around in search of the male. It took a little to find him but when he did he walked over and gave a soft if not tired smile "Well...we have expansions to take care off...shall we?" He asked Thalion with a smile "We need to go deeper into the cave and remove the dragons and beasts as we go...not to mention we need more room in general" He said with a sigh as he held his staff.

Sleep would have come easily if it weren't for the disruptions. If it wasn't one thing it was another. This was why he hated ranks, being a common solider meant he got some damn sleep. Either way he was up when morning came, not to say he wanted to be that was for sure. Yet whatever the reason he couldn't shake something nagging at him that today was not going to be a pleasant one.

After a while Mizuki finally tracked him down as Felix was laughing a little that his arm was still sore from last night. Though Thal had already planned that Mizuki would track him down sooner or later as he had a group set up for what he knew could be in the caves. "Scouts came back with no reports of beasts, maybe the noise drove all the smaller ones." Though noise attracted other things that lurked in the shadows.

either way the group started to get a move on to they could focus more of tactics once they returned rather than how cramped the camp was. Either way so far things seemed to be going well. No signs of anything through the caves. Dragons were the least of his concerns though. He had a thought that expanding the cave would cause those stalacites to crash down. But the thought was pushed to the side. Not like they had a choice, the water source near them would be needed if they had a prolonged stay.

Using what magic was needed he tried not to use to much as he removed rocks and dirt from the ground and walls around them. Now they stood infront of an opening that they didnt make. Stepping forth with his staff and crystal for light Mizuki looked around the open area. There was a stream that ran from an opening in the wall. Behind that wall then should be a water source.

Looking to Thalion he gave a nod of his head "Through there should be water...we could redirect the root back to the main camp and get this place up and running!" He said with a smile and a nod of his head "If we removed this wall here and created a trench leading to camp we could carve out a base for the water to settle" Mizuki said with a smile.

Turning around he looked around at the walls and everything around him. "By the looks of things this wall should be the support" He said by touching the wall to his right "So then this one...should be okay to remove" Mizuki said as he began the same thing he had with every other wall they reached. Though this time something was wrong.

As Mizuki began removing what was needed to be removed he stopped as he heard a groan in the rocks around him. That sound was not a good sound. Looking around him he landed his eyes on Thalion "I dont think-" But his words were cut off as the groan came again fallowed by the grumbling and falling of rocks. Next thing he knew the men out of the opening yelled the words "CAVE IN!"

He agreed with Mizuki and his thoughts o directing the water source. Though something was off about the cave. He couldn't put his finger on it at first. Everything seemed ok and what Mizuki said about the support should have been true. Though it seemed something else had been digging in the caves to case the support to be faulty and disrupting anything near it would cause a cave in.

His worry was soon all too real as the sudden noise of rocks cracking and shifting ran out. He didn't need anyone to tell him what that noise was. Grabbing Mizuki he forced him to go back towards the opening. Though in almost the same breath he made the other stop as the path became blocked between them and the others.

Great trapped wasn't half of the concern as the caves ceiling was still falling apart. By this point they had no where really to go. Like hell he was going to die to a cave in out of all things as he forced Mizuki to the ground before pulling out a small stone with a marking in it before the stone seemed to shatter at his touch.

Cutting it close was a thought as he barely managed to cast the barrier in time to keep the rocks from crushing both of them. With Mizuki still on the floor Thal ended up barely giving them breathing room as a redish shielding seemed to keep the rocks form moving from their current place. If the barrier died than they might as well be dead.

When things stopped moving Thal breathed out a little glad that for now they were alive. Granted for the time being he was forced to stay where he was over top of Mizuki, glad the other didn't protest to being forced down. "Heh.. cut that a bit close." He meant the shielding rune though the slight laugh and sudden pain made him notice just how close.

Great.. that wasn't good, stuck under rocks with a wound like this. He tried to not pay it any mind so maybe Mizuki wouldn't notice. Though his thought was that someone better get them out soon. Bleeding meant he could only hold the barrier spell for so long. But Mizuki was safe ..

Mizuki didnt have any time to think before he was forced to the ground with Thalion ontop of him. No thoughts were there as all he heard was rock after rock fall though nothing was hitting them? How on earth...Feeling the way that Thalion was over him Mizuki judged the space that he had and after the sound of the rocks stopped he turned around carefull not to disturb the other male.

This was when his eyes opened wide and he saw the red berrier over them. A rune....thats how Thalion got the berrier up in time. Though with the amount of space they had meant the breathing was short lived. Looking up to Thalion Mizuki couldnt help the little blush that dusted his cheeks as he realized just how close they were "You know...there are other ways to get close to me" Mizuki said trying to make light of the situation.

This in turn caused a retort from Thalion though Mizuki saw something else as the male spoke. Thalion was hiding something...but what? Smelling the air around them Mizukis ears bent back as he looked Thalion right in the eyes his own lavender ones glaring now "Where are you hurt?" Was all he asked and at Thalions protest he growled "This small of a space and you really think I wouldnt be able to smell the blood?" He asked with a glare.

Thal couldn't help but smirk at Mizuki saying there were other ways to get close. "Perhaps.. but least we have privacy this way." He was going to laugh but he thought better of it. Maybe if he could keep Mizuki distracted he wouldn't notice. Though how could he not being this close. Heck he didn't know how bad the wound was, his body was half in shock from pain so he didn't notice.

His ears dropped a little as Mizuki continued to demand where he was wounded. "Deal with it later... it doesn't hurt right now anyway." Plus he was pretty sure he had a idea of how bad it was, also the fact what caused the wound was still in place so healing was out of the question. With Mizuki under him he knew it was a matter of time before the other noticed how much blood Thal had lost, the only lucky thing was that the object stayed in place due to the barrier so it was helping in a way still the bleeding.

Work was already underway to try to find the two. Felix had not hesitated once sending for more of the troops before getting the current group split. Part keeping watch and the rest working at finding the two. Though he feared the worst, though he knew how stubborn Thal was as well. So there was a odds of them being alive.