Legends of Eariter

by tsukino111

Summary:

On a far away planet, the Ultimate Masters Tournament will bring together two Elites, and in doing so, will bring about a legendary power. Alternate universe (AU); no senshi; S/E love story. Rated M for OPEN-MINDED, MATURE audiences due to strong language, violence, sexual content, and adult situations (future chapters).

Chapter 1: Prologue

Legends of Eariter
Prologue

Deep in space, light-years away from Earth, a star system only 200 years old, holds the Mega-Earth planet, Eariter. Eariter is the size of Jupiter with planetary rings and four moons, Kalyke, Calyce, Caria, and Herse. It has Earth-like qualities of deep oceans, luscious green forests, high mountain peaks, dry deserts, grassy meadows, and clear blue skies.

Its inhabitants are human-like in that they appear human in every sense, however some are semi-aquatic in that they are primarily terrestrial, but spend a large amount of time underwater or some are semi-aerial in that they primarily live in the clouds but can live on ground-level. Each territory bloc has unique abilities that aide in adapting to their surroundings. There are six total territory blocs: Aerial, Mountains, Oceanic, Desert, Forest, and Land. Each territory has it's own species: Aerial has Clairds, Mountains have Snevains, Oceanic has Maquaids, Desert has Dreseats, Forest has Forgles, and Land has Graillds.

The planet Eariter has no rulers of Gods and Goddesses, Kings and Queens, or Emperors and Empresses. Each individual has their own powers, however powers intensify over time and with experience. There are groups of High-Powered individuals in each territory, including the Moons, called Elders, but they are looked upon for influence and guidance only.

Powers can be simple in that they can help an individual teleport, summon a whirlwind, or be used for manifesting abilities – such as materializing transparent wings before flight on a Claird. Rarely are powers used for defensive purposes, as Eariter is a peaceful planet and concealed from outsiders.

The four moons of Eariter are just outside of the planet's rings and are located at each of its four corners. Inhabitants of the moons are known as Selases. They are the guardians of the inhabitants on Eariter. The Elders of the four moons use their powers to conceal the planet with an invisible shield that hides and protects the moons and Eariter. Until now, there has been no reason for the Eariterians to seek out other planets.

A nearby star in Eariter's star system is undergoing the sudden gravitational collapse of its core and is releasing gravitational potential energy that could create a supernova explosion. If the supernova would occur, a shock wave of radiation would expel into the interstellar medium, affecting Eariter for better or worse.

There is also a newly formed star radiating a powerfully negative force that is disrupting the invisible shield powered by the four moon's Elders. If the negative force's strength intensifies, the Elders' powers will drain quickly due to the increased use, and the barrier of Eariter will be revealed and Eariter will be left unprotected.

Fortunately, the four year wait for determining a conqueror of the Ultimate Masters Tournament (UMT) is about to begin. Five of the most Elite from each territory will compete in six stages and the victors earning the most points from each territory will contend for the highest prestige position out of all territories. One winner will be inaugurated as the crowning champion in the seventh and final stage.

To be an Elite member, one must be 25 years of age or older at the start of the UMT. One must also qualify by placing top 10 in all three rounds of their territory's obstacle courses. The overall top five contenders will be selected. One must also train in all territorial conditions and be able to use each territory's unique abilities.

Chapter 2: Day 1

Legends of Eariter
Day 1

As the brightness of the sun revealed itself, he adjusted his anti-fog, polarized goggles over the spandex material covering his eyes. He was watching as his other four Elite Snevains prepared for the tournament with warm-ups and stretches. Their summit grey full-body spandex suits concealed their identities, but he was well aware who each Elite was. There were two men and two women, all of who he believed to be worthy as contenders of his territory. In their territory, the summit grey color would camouflage them to their surroundings. It would give them the upper-hand when they would begin the stage in their own territory. Covering the spandex suit was an armor pressure suit, similar to what snowboarders wore for maximum upper body protection in case of a potential impact. Waterproof, tough-grip leather gloves with insulated fleece adored his hands and breathable acronos and leather boots equipped with grip guard soles and thermoplastic shin guards adorned his feet. This apparel was the standard for all contestants, only in their respective territory colors.

It was unusually windy and the cold from being at a high altitude on the cumulonimbus cloud would make today's stage pretty difficult, even for the Clairds themselves. As a Snevain, he was accustomed to the cold, wind, and high altitude – from having lived in the mountains his whole life – and this would benefit him greatly for the games. Today's stage would have him utilizing temporary wings - something he was not acclimated with – along with every other non-Claird, granted by the Claird Elders. The ability of acclimating to the high altitude would be bestowed upon the contestants as well. The other territories would not be able to participate in the Clairds' stage otherwise. There were few non-Clairds who had the ability to levitate, let alone 'fly,' without wings or control their breathing rate in such a short time before the games. Some were powerful enough to manifest wings for themselves, but powers were not to be used during the tournament. Any use of powers during the tournament would result in immediate disqualification. The tournament was used for measuring an Elite's endurance, agility, dexterity, strength, and speed – not their power levels.

“Heads up,” he announced to the others, with a nod in the direction he was observing. His Elites turned their heads. The other territories started to appear and were making their way towards them. He could tell by the colors, which territory was leading the arrival. The sky blue color revealed the Clairds. There were four females and one male. Unlike the standard boots most contestants wore, the female Clairds had on stilettos with matching encased buckles to that of their male counterpart's. He could hear mumbled howls from his Elite men and smirks from his Elite ladies, no doubt because of the female Clairds choice of shoes.

The next group of territories wore a forest-green color, the Forgles. There were two females and three males in their group. A tan color came after them, the Dreseats. They had three females and two males. Aqua was the color for the Maquaids and there were four females and one male. The last territory, the Graillds, had light green for their color and composed of one female and four males.

Each group assessed their competition. Without knowing each other's identities or the ability to read their power levels, not much analyzing could be done. The only measure of study available on each contestant was based upon warm-up exercises of how limber, flexible, and balanced they were. There was also the perceptive implications of the body: language, type, and shape. Much could be left to the imagination in regards of aesthetic purposes.

An unseen smug smile formed on his hard chiseled face. Despite the multitude of males present, he still received lingering glances from each female, even though his physical features were hidden from view. An invisible pull was gaining his attention. He pinpointed the lure to the Grailld's sole female. She was glancing in his direction and even though he couldn't know for sure if she was physically looking at him, he could feel that she was. Without the use of powers, he knew it must be an internal attribution on the female's part. He tried to dismiss it as mere infatuation, however the tug was vigorous and unyielding. He would need to keep an eye on her and investigate later.

A camera crew was setting up to record and broadcast the tournament throughout the territories. Some spectators were present, although most were near ground-level waiting for the broadcast to begin on the big-screen in front of them.

“Ladies and Gentlemen, welcome to the fifth annual Ultimate Masters Tournament!” was loudly heard on the broadcasting speaker. It was addressing the spectators.

“Listen up, Elites!” an Elder from the Kalyke moon had started, drawing in everyone's attention. He was a plump fellow in a maroon robe with salt and pepper colored hair. “We are about to commence the games. We just need to go over the race course, reiterate the rules, and if there are any questions...” Jumping and stretching was continued as the Elder carried on in his speech. The Elites were getting excited and their adrenaline started to kick in. “...remember to maneuver through obstacles smoothly and avoid collision, all while maintaining your speed. Clock starts when you cross the starting line and ends when you reach the last marker. Any questions?”

Without any questions, the race was to begin. All twenty-five Elites lined up at the starting line. They waited for the sound of the pistol. Once heard, all the Elites took off in flight.

Some, mainly the Maquaids, had a difficult time adjusting to the wings. Their takeoff was rough and had a few ups and downs before they could finally control the aerodynamics of it all. The first obstacle was to fly through a set of hoops that gradually decreased in size. One Maquaid hit the last hoop and fell in the clouds. He quickly started flight again and tried his best to catch up with the rest.

The Selases of each moon were refereeing and regulating the races. One Forgle was caught using his powers, although an insignificant amount, still against the rules. He was whistled out of the race and disqualified. The Elders were sensitive to power and could feel when a power was used. A female Snevain went the wrong way around a barrel and was penalized 5 points for doing so. A male Dreseat decided to avoid an obstacle entirely to pass three contestants when he thought a Selas wasn't paying attention. Another Selas was and deducted 10 points from him.

Two Clairds were in the lead, followed by the suave Snevain, then the male Claird, and then the female Grailld. The Snevain was rather enjoying the futile attempts of the Claird behind him, more-so amused with his frustrations. The Claird tried his best, to no avail, at slamming into the Snevain and trying to collide him into obstacles any chance the Claird could get. One Selas was watching the aforementioned Claird closely for any violations of the rules. He was not impressed with the Clairds tactics and waited patiently for the Claird to try again.

At a steady pace, the Grailld female stayed behind, and quietly observed the Snevain in front of her. She could have passed him and the Claird easily, especially with how much attention they were focusing on each other instead of the race itself. She assumed the Snevain was capable of evading the Claird and his tactics and was unsure as to why he continued to torment the poor boy. There was definitely something enticing about the Snevain. He was an intriguing temptation and she couldn't ascertain the emotions he emanated from her.

Rival Claird to the Snevain noticed the final markers coming into view and knew he wouldn't have many more opportunities to take his opponent out. As they were nearing the tunnels, he opted to go down one instead of going up it. The Snevain was slightly stunned when he realized the Claird was no longer beside him. He briefly glanced back to see if the Claird was following him, only to behold the mystifying Grailld herself. He sensed her sudden concern and turned around to see what the cause was for her unease. Coming straight at him was the Claird. The Snevain was riled by the Claird now as he was not only putting the two of them in a crisis, but also the uninvolved Grailld. The provoked Snevain was no longer amused and went full force, straight at the Claird. Terror filled the Claird as he realized the Snevain was charging him like a kamikaze. He tried in vain to halt his descent, but it was no longer a concern – the Snevain was able to snatch the Claird and bring him up and out of the tunnel. The Snevain would have threw him as well, had it not been for the tournament they were in.

As soon as they were out of the tunnel, whistles were being blown in all directions. A Selas quickly grabbed the Claird and motioned to the others to continue. The Claird was injured on the arm the Snevain grabbed him with. He was disqualified for breaking the rules of deliberately disobeying direction with malicious intent. The Snevain only shook his head at the boy, but was thankful no harm was done and the Grailld gave him an unnoticed sympathetic look. Now the Snevain could use his full capabilities to catch up with the leaders. Not far behind, the Grailld followed.

The two female Clairds in the lead moved with finesse and ease, while maintaining a dignified poise. Their ethereal wings tucked in gently as they gracefully dipped in and out of the tunnels and under bars. The spectators cheered as they were nearing the last markers. Whistles began to blow and that slowed the Clairds down as they looked back for an explanation. Ignoring their fellow Claird being escorted out of the race, the two leaders could only focus on the two Elites right behind them. As if on fire, the two leaders took off like fireworks.

It was a female Claird who took first place with a tie between the second female Claird and the Snevain, followed by the Grailld. The local spectators roared in cheer to have their own win the race. The Snevain was well aware how close the Grailld stayed behind him. He believed she was holding back.

“Good race,” the Claird who won proclaimed. The others nodded in agreement. She knew it was a close call and considered herself lucky for winning.

The Snevain immediately knew the Claird's identity simply by her voice. He had his suspicions, but without his powers, he didn't know for sure. The two of them have trained together since childhood. He had no doubt that she knew his identity as well. It was an unspoken rule not to have verbal communications for the obvious reason. He parted from her with a nod and turned to the Grailld for some kind of understanding. She had started walking away and so he decided to turn and walk towards the Elders. He couldn't wait to either have his powers 'restored' so he could remove the wings himself or to have the Elders do it.
As the last Grailld reached the last marker, they all embraced for completing the first stage. With the female out-doing the males, she was scooped up and paraded around. A giggle escaped her lips. Luckily no one other than her fellow Graillds were around to hear its sweet-sounding melody.

After his wings disappeared, the Snevain turned just as the alluring Grailld was being ever-so-slowly brought down from her male companion's loving arms. He could feel his insides burning with rage and his heart rate dangerously elevated. He clenched his fists and turned away. Who would have imagined that he of all people could experience jealousy, especially concerning a woman. One who's identity had yet to be revealed to him, no less! What if she were a hideous beast? Somehow he doubted that one. He needed to get out of here, away from these bewildering emotions of unknown origin. He needed a drink. A strong one.

His fellow female Snevain watched the whole scene unfold before her. She had just congratulated him on his tie of second place. He thanked her with a curtsy, undoubtedly for a humorous effect. The Snevain Elites were discussing plans for tonight's celebratory festivities. They would start off at the local tavern and then head over to the nearby park for the Celestial Stargazing Event. He had just turned to leave when he stopped to look at the Graillds. She was unsure of her feelings towards him, but was saddened by the realization he could care for someone else.

The tavern was overcrowded. Spectators, family, friends, and even the dressed-down, unidentifiable Elites were mingling about, drinking in celebration, and enjoying the company of all those around.

He was replaying the earlier scene in his head for the umpteenth time. He knew it was ridiculous to be angered by the man who was gently caressing the female Grailld's arm, but he couldn't help but be jealous. With frustration, he ran his hands through his onyx colored-hair, as if it would rid his mind of her.

“Whoa, might want to take it easy on the hard stuff,” suggested a shaggy blonde-haired man with arctic blue eyes, as he took a seat next to him.

“'Liquor before beer, you're in the clear,'” replied the man with disheveled hair and piercing sapphire eyes. He didn't bother to look in his direction.

“Damn right! Cheers!” He said as he tipped his shot of tequila to the attractive bartender before he chugged it down.

“Unlike you, I am fully capable of holding my liquor, Jadeite.” He still hadn't looked in the man's direction.

Jadeite could only smirk as he recalled a time when his strapping young friend here out drank all the men in their training brigade. “I can understand your frustration, Endymion. She is gorgeous.” Jadeite retaliated smoothly, pretending as if he simply stated how nice the weather was.

With that, Endymion whipped his head to him. “You know who she is? You've seen her?” he practically demanded with his fierce sapphires. He couldn't care less how Jadeite knew what was bothering him. Endymion knew Jadeite didn't have his ability of telepathy. Besides, he would have noticed the probing of his mind and either activated a psychic shield to close his mind off to Jadeite or used an illusion to manipulate what Jadeite would perceive.

“Yes, and yes,” Jadeite replied nonchalantly, without any hints and hoping to annoy his personally-dubbed liege. Jadeite knew of Endymion's immense powers, even at a young age, and vowed to stand beside him – in addition to his life mission of protecting the people of Eariter – if ever the need called for it.

Endymion lowered his eyebrows and opened his mouth to say something, but without a thought, he could only grit his pearly white teeth at the button-pushing blonde. He knew Jadeite wasn't permitted to reveal an Elite's identity during the tournament. He would just have to wait. 'Only six more days...,' he mentally noted with disappointment.

Jadeite could tell Endymion was remarkably irritated and couldn't help but find some amusement in the Elite's sulky dissatisfaction.

“Tough day? What's with the long face, Endymion? Still angry with that Claird?” asked a tall, athletic-built man with long wavy auburn hair and Persian blue eyes. As he approached, he simultaneously gave a pat on each man's back. “You seem tense, Endymion,” he quickly observed.

Endymion recalled the Claird's actions in the tunnel and immediately thought of the Grailld again. 'Why can't I get off the subject already?' he pondered. “That Claird is a pusillanimous ignoramus who deserves a vicious crusade through a monstrous hellscape-”

“Hold your tongue, you foul-mouthed thief, you!” Jadeite interrupted him in a roar of laughter. “You sound as if you were reading Zoicite's thoughts verbatim!” He intended to make a pun of Endymion's abilities.

The man could not contain his hysterics and was bent over, holding his stomach from the pain of laughter. 'It wasn't even that funny... must be the liquor kicking in...' Endymion reasoned.

“Yeah, tell us how you really feel!” the auburn-haired newcomer added with a chuckle.

Endymion rolled his eyes and went back to observing the people gathering at the park for the stargazing event being held in an hour. They were overlooking the large open park from the outside bar. “Jadeite, Nephrite, what do the two of you want? Leave me in peace.” Endymion insisted.

Jadeite and Nephrite knew Endymion was reserved like the rest of them. It would be difficult to get him to open up, even to them – who were considered his most loyal confidants. They knew he was experiencing inner turmoil, undeniably a result of the Grailld – no woman has ever caused him such irrational behavior. Endymion has always been one who could readily dismiss love. No woman has ever been able to tie-down the powerful Elite. Many have tried, but it was as if he were waiting for the perfect challenger. She was unnerving him, that they knew.

“Just checking on you. We were at the tournament. We saw what was going on, ” Nephrite was alluding to the Claird and the Grailld.

“Not to get all ooey-gooey, but we are here if you want to let it all out. You know, if you need a shoulder to cry on...” Jadeite batted his eyelashes to Endymion and pulled his blazer down his arm to reveal his shirted shoulder.

Endymion wore an incredulous look on his godly-sculpted face. Then he gave an amused smirk, followed by a deep sigh. “Have you ever experienced chaos in the mind? Been exposed to internal conflict of the unsure? Had a struggle within your soul?” He ran his hands through his hair again and then over his face in frustration. “I could pass as a lunatic.” Endymion heard his words and realized how crazy he sounded. “Listen, thanks, Jed, Neph, but I just need to clear my head. I'll see you tomorrow.” He stood up – his height slightly towering Jadeite's and equaling Nephrite's – and walked down the stairs to the direction of the park.

“Holy shit, he does sound like a lunatic!” Jadeite affirmed with wide eyes.

Nephrite punched him in the arm and Jadeite feigned pain with an “Oww!” and rubbing of his sore spot. “Kunzite was right about the woman – she will be the death of Endymion.” Nephrite was sure of it.

An hour had passed and Endymion found himself walking to his group of undiscovered Elites. They were busy laughing, engrossed by whatever they were seeing in the night sky. Then he suddenly felt it again – the pull of her. However, it vanished as quickly as it appeared. It had momentarily brought him to a standstill, startling him more than anything. He somehow didn't imagine to see – or feel – her here. He continued walking, casually scanning the area, for what, he was unsure. 'Maybe a neon arrow sign will point to her to make it easy for you. Idiot.' He mentally scolded himself. 'I really am losing it...'

She was laying on the puffy quilt, her long, silvery-pearl hair pooling beneath her. Some of her close friends and a few Elites accompanied her. They were admiring the giant screen projector that had the aptitude of a telescope. The stars were visibly bright and vivid with their luminosity igniting the night sky.

That pull she shared with him was triggered again. She felt her heart leap from her chest. 'He must be close by...' she thought. 'It must be enhanced when we are in the vicinity of one another.' With apprehension – or excitement – she hastily used her powers to enshroud their impenetrable bond. She went still, unable to move. Either she was terrified to see him or she was physically incapable of moving, she wasn't sure. Her normally angelic moon-kissed features were now paled with an expression of uncertainty.

A pixie-cut, oxford blue-haired woman laying beside her noticed her uneasiness. “Serenity, is everything alright?” she asked with mirrored concern and worry.

Serenity tensed again. She had hoped no one would notice her unease. “Ami, yes, of course.” Serenity acknowledged with sincerity, giving her an appreciative smile.

“Okay. But, if you need anything...well, I'm here for you.” Ami genuinely assured with a returned smile.

“Thank you,” she expressed, her cornflower blue eyes helped wash away Ami's concern. That was part of Serenity's charm. She could push emotions, thoughts, and memories onto others. She hated to do it with her close friend, but she didn't want Ami concerned for her. Serenity wanted to deal with whatever this was, alone.

“Endymion, come join us!” The rosewood red-headed female Snevain urged. “We missed you earlier!” She was a little tipsy and was getting all lovey-dovey with him. This was a well-known routine with him. Women swooned over him anywhere he went. Endymion was going to try to enjoy the night and do his best to forget about her…for now.

Chapter 3: Day 2

Legends of Eariter
Day 2

The snow was crunchy and squeaky beneath her as she made her way up to the top of the mountain. Her mohair climbing skins and ski poles facilitating the ascension. A strong, howling wind was coming in. Dark clouds were making their way towards her. It was cold, below freezing, and the bleak weather coming would only bring frostbite and icicles. Even for a summer day, way up there in the early morning, it just as well could have been considered winter. Her mind reeled for the reasoning and something about adiabatic cooling and orographic lifting came to mind, though she couldn't comprehend any of it at the moment.

At the top, the other Elites were preparing for the beginning of the downhill battle. Some were inspecting the course as best as they could. Others were doing last minute warm-up runs. From her practice runs earlier, she was already familiar with the course. Serenity knew where it would bump up and rut out; where it would get tight; where the direction changes were; where the hard section was; where the rhythm changes were; etc.

Her covered eyes were darting for him. She could sense his pull – she could from a quarter of the way up the mountain. The intensity of it wasn't as impressive as it was when she felt him last night while stargazing, but that just meant he wasn't present on the summit yet. He was close by, probably doing a warm-up run. Serenity took the time to get a good look at the start ramp, view the course, understand the terrain, and observe the snow conditions one last time.

From up here, she surveyed the picturesque scenery and inhaled deeply. Snow covered the alpine peaks and was seen for miles. Most of the lower course involved skiing through tree-lined pistes on well-maintained slopes. Beyond the aspen and maple trees, was the base of the mountain, where a waterfall's flow emptied into the massive surrounding lake.

The dominance of his presence commanded her attention. She watched as he made his way up the slope with a few flanking Snevains. A chill came over her at his appearance and she wondered if it was from anticipation or fear of the unknown.

A fellow Grailld noticed her shiver and thought it to be caused by the cold temperature. He used his hands to warm her arms by rapidly rubbing them. A rush of mixed emotions slammed into her chest: hurt, anger, desire, jealousy – feeling of loss. Only, they weren't her emotions. Serenity had been watching him the whole time. Never had he glanced her way, so how was he to know what she was experiencing?

She contemplated running to him, soothing his pain somehow. 'Maybe he has those feelings for someone else?' Her heart stopped. Thoughts frozen. Serenity wasn't even sure they were his emotions. She involuntarily inched forward, out of the Grailld's reach. Instantly, the emotions fled.

Warm hands held her upper arms. In a concerned whisper only she could hear, “Serenity, are you alright?”

'Why does everyone keep asking me that?' she mentally murmured. Upon his touch again, she felt the Snevain's hurt again. Keeping calm, she replied, “Yeah, just last minute jitters, I guess.”

“Are you sure?” he asked, knowing her well enough that this trail was easy for her and that she hardly ever lied.

Knowing that his persistence wouldn't ease up unless she assured him, she answered, “Yes, I just think the frigid weather is starting to get to me and it's making me doubt myself and my abilities.” She turned to him, patting his hands on her arms. It was half truthful, only it wasn't due to the frigid weather.

He nodded to her, releasing her arms. Again, the pain went away. She turned back to her Snevain, who stood gallant in his magnificent glory, speaking to a regal-looking Selas with platinum blonde hair and slate grey eyes. Regardless of his momentary inner turmoil, he held his emotions well. She exhaled out of exhaustion. These games were torture. Not because of the physical aspects, but because of the emotional situations she somehow muddled herself into.

“It's time, Elites! Today's event will be a combination of...” The Elder from the Kalyke moon began, but his voice faded from her earshot as she concentrated on her thoughts. She needed to filter out the distraction of him. How she was going to do that without using her power, she had no idea.

She tried by focusing on the task at hand: skiing down the slopes and through the course to the finish line with the fastest speed. 'What was it the skiing instructor always used to say? “The forces your feet go through while edging, or trying to maintain balance over undulating terrain, is just not the same as standing and walking on level ground...”' She could hear his lecture replaying in her head, over and over again until the dull sound was all she could focus on.

POP! The sound of the pistol reverberated in her ears, possibly due to the echo reflecting off the hard surfaces of the mountain. Everyone launched down the trail, her trailing slightly behind as her body was slow to automatically jump at the sound of the pistol due to her inattentive state.

Serenity easily passed a few Elites on the first turn. Then a few more on the first jump. She could see her Snevain in front, gradually lengthening his distance from the rest. She pushed harder, pressing her shins against her boots and kept her arms out in front, parallel to her chest, to maintain her balance. Her eyes focused on him. From this viewpoint, she could watch where she needed to go, prepare for any adjustments to avoid the other Elites, the trees, and the obstacles. Serenity pointed her chest forward, positioning her upper body to face downhill.

The moguls proved difficult for some Elites. When presented with a mogul, an Elite would try a wide turn, braking too long and slowing down. Some Elites would take the moguls head on, without slowing down, causing them to jump the moguls and land in the powdery snow. Recovering from the unexpected effects cost some Elites the time to catch up.

On the second turn, a Dreseat gripped the corner too soon, stiffening her skis and causing her to turn and brake straight into the gate. As the second jump approached, a Grailld overestimated the sheer force of the friction between his skis and the slope, sending him flying at takeoff and causing him to hurtle down into the compact snow, flailing his arms and legs wildly. He fractured his arm when his ski pole snapped in half on impact.

Retaining first place, Endymion could sense her fast approach. Not wanting to overexert himself earlier, he now completely concentrated on the course. He anticipated each turn and jump, expertly bending, sliding, and landing when needed. Endymion reveled in the feel of his skis gliding uninterruptedly across the pale snow.

Serenity drove her hands forward between turns and brought her hips up to get her weight forward. Her proximity was closing in behind him. The alpine peaks and dark-grey sky were becoming blurs due to her speed. When her Snevain took a parallel turn along the curved path, she opted for a carving one instead. This allowed her a tighter curve, positioning her side-by-side with him.

As if on cue, a booming rumble of a thunderclap resounded, it's sympathetic vibrations shaking the mountainside causing a wet avalanche to form.

Near to the finish line, Serenity and Endymion could make out the spectators. They began shouting, “avalanche!” and pointing to the giant snowball quickly forming and gaining speed behind them. Both Elites turned their heads to view the newly formed beast. It was then that Serenity's right ski skidded over Endymion's left ski. Both turned back to evaluate their situation. She grabbed his arm, steadying them as she struggled to keep from falling.

The simple touch of her gloved hand to his covered arm ignited white heat instantaneously throughout their bodies. Warm sparks of electricity engulfed them, displaying bright white flares of light, similar to that of a laser show. Their electric energy radiated and was felt by those nearby.

An invisible barrier vanished, causing their senses to awaken and come alive. Her hand tingled at the heat his arm emitted beneath her touch. The flame she activated within him, burned through him like a fever with no cure.

She removed her hand when she was sure she could maintain her balance after managing to free her awry ski. Their hidden tension and confusion of what was happening affected her, fluttering her heart. She steadied her rapid breathing so that she wasn't deprived of oxygen. Serenity was trembling.

When she removed her hand, he directed his vision away from her and the accompanied thoughts of accelerating emotional intimacy she shared through their physical contact. With all the willpower he could possess, he tried to focus on anything but the closeness of her. He needed to get away from her, to process what was happening. He needed his own thoughts and he needed the influence of his powers to subdue this...sensual heat.

Endymion passed the finish line first, Serenity slowly sliding behind him. A nod to the platinum-blonde Selas from earlier and he quickly teleported in a swirl of wind. She watched as he disappeared, falling to her knees and clutching the loose snow between quivering gloved hands. A flurry of snow cascaded on and around her. One of the Elder Selases encased the competing Elites in a translucent dome to shelter them from the avalanche. The remnants of the avalanche's collision with the dome was gently descending now over everyone.

“Please, come with me, my dear.” urged an Elder Selas woman with greying long braids. She encircled her arm with Serenity's and helped her up. With a wave of her other hand, a portal appeared before them. She ushered Serenity through, appearing them on Calyce. Serenity said nothing. She wasn't sure why she was suddenly being requested by the Selases, but she had a pretty good idea it was because of her encounter with the Snevain.

Serenity had been to Calyce and the other Moons once or twice before, but not to the room she was escorted to. It was large and dark – the only luminance came from a wide circular table which Serenity could now see was lined by eight Elder Selases. In the center of the table were holograms presenting an assortment of video feeds. One stilled selected video caught her eye in particular. It was the mountainside she just left, but in the center of the video was bright white lights darting in every direction.

“Serenity, we would like to speak with you regarding the situation you found yourself in during the mountain scrimmage.” disclosed an Elder, who had an uncanny resemblance to that of Morgan Freeman.

“You may remove your head coverings, ski boots, and any accessories, if you wish. We would like you to be comfortable in your stay here with us.” Kind, hazel eyes revealed the truth to her words. Serenity did even better – she completely changed her apparel all together with a flick of her wrist. Now she wore an oversized lavender, off-the-shoulder, knitted sweater with dark denim jeans and matching knitted boots.

"Please, have a seat," offered a balding man with Oriental eyes who pulled out the seat next to him. Serenity thanked the man as she took the seat.

The video of her on the mountain with her Snevain was now directly placed in front of her and every Selas present at the table. They each had their own hologram of the scene. It was still in pause mode.

Hitting the play button, “Now, would you please explain to us what is happening during this time, play-by-play?" asked a short, obviously dyed, red-headed Elder who entwined her pale lengthy fingers on the table, leaning in so she could see the hologram better.

Serenity began her commentary at the start of the race. “I am replaying my skiing instructor's lecture in my head to get my head focused on the game.” She currently had her guards up with her powers by using a psychic shield to protect her mind from those who tried probing her thoughts. Serenity studied each Elder and tried her best to read them without penetrating their thoughts with her abilities. She knew they would know she was doing it anyway, though she was powerful enough to shadow her abilities so even the Elders wouldn't know what she was doing. It felt like an interrogation, but she knew the Elders were only concerned with what was happening with her and the Snevain and she understood they were only trying to help in any way they could.

“Serenity, please be completely honest with us. You are not being punished. We only wish to interpret your circumstances with En—Elite, your fellow Elite.” Quickly corrected a man with caramel-colored skin who looked at her through his plastic framed bifocals. He had motioned to the red-head to pause the video.

She realized he almost revealed the Snevain's name, but she didn't acknowledge it to him. They obviously knew who she was – of course they would know who he was. She wondered if they were talking to him as well, somewhere else that had a similar room as this.

With a sigh, “I was trying not to focus on him. The pull we share started sending me his feelings – emotions. At least, I think they were his.” Confessed Serenity as she caressed the hand she used to touch her Snevain with. She could still feel the warmth of his body temperature and she wondered if it was his actual heat still lingering or her mind playing tricks on her.

“You share a 'pull'? Tell us about it.” The hazel-eyed woman asked of her.

“It feels like an invisible string that tugs at my heart when he is near. I have a strong urge to be near him. The link seems to get more intense and more powerful the more I am in his presence.” She felt her heart respond to her thoughts of him and she closed her eyes and smiled as the warm feeling from earlier returned.

They only nodded as she finished. The Morgan Freeman-lookalike, who she considered the head of the group, was jotting something down and showed it to the red-head who sat next to him. She nodded as she read over his note.

“What feelings did you feel? Why are you not sure if they were his or not?” It was the red-head who asked.

“I felt a pain of hurt; like a loved one was being taken away. I wasn't experiencing the pain for myself, so I assumed it was coming from him, through our link. What was strange though – every time I was touched by Pan, I would feel the pain. As soon as Pan let me go, the pain went away. But the Snevain never looked at me – he had no other way of knowing what was happening between Pan and I. Maybe he has thinking of someone else, but I was able to feel his feelings? I really don't understand.” Her head dropped as she looked at her hands in her lap. She wanted nothing more than to go to him now and figure this all out.

“How long has this been going on?” Questioned a woman of Indian descent.

“Yesterday, before the games started, when I was first in his presence, I started to feel the pull. Today is when it escalated with feelings.” Her head stayed lowered, hiding her facial expressions from them.

“So do you know the identity of the Snevain?”

“No, I don't.” She shook her head to reiterate her answer, never looking up.

The group started to talk amongst themselves. Serenity was feeling like a new species they discovered and had to know everything about her.

“...yes, he will be in shortly for us to hear from him.” It was a white-haired man with rosy cheeks who provided the information.

With that, she looked up. She didn't really hear their conversation, but she did know they were speaking of her Snevain. The prospect of seeing him had her heart flip-flopping. “Is he here? Can I see him?”

They watched her face light up. They felt sorry for her and were envious of her at the same time. This link they shared was fascinating. They knew of the power of the mind some had, but never heard of the power of the heart. These two Elites had the powerful abilities with the mind, and also with the heart. Where the abilities of the heart were concerned, it seemed to start and end with them alone.

“I'm sorry, Serenity. We cannot have you meeting with him or knowing his identity. We must continue with the UMT uninterrupted and unaffected.” The head Elder spoke.

“How do you feel during the games? Would you like us to shield your link with him?” The hazel-eyed woman seemed the most concerned with Serenity's feelings on the matter.

“No! Really, it's not necessary.” Serenity lowered her voice, surprised she answered so quickly without hesitation. The thought of not having a connection with him terrified her.

“I suppose it is for the best. The more they are exposed to one another, the stronger the bond. We will need to speak with the two of you when the games conclude and hear about any further progress.” The Indian woman decided, turning her attention back to Serenity.

Relief washed over Serenity.

“If, however, the games become compromised because of your situation, we will shield the two of you from each other and manipulate your thoughts of one another if necessary.” Explained the head Elder.

The relief faded into worry.

“Back to the video. Serenity, what happened here?” The red-head started the video right before they had looked back to the avalanche.

“I heard the spectators mention an avalanche, so I turned to see it, only to lose my footing a bit and connect with the Snevain. To steady myself, I grabbed his arm – that's when the link strengthened even more. The heat I felt was incredible...” 'and somehow, familiar?' She omitted that part from them. “I didn't even realize we emanated a bright light in the process. It's amazing...” She viewed the screen, bringing her fingers up to touch it – hoping it would somehow bring the feeling and heat affiliated with him again.

They started to talk amongst themselves again, only Serenity could hear them better and paid more attention now.

“Do you think it could be a twin flames occurrence?”

“I never considered that.”

“It sounds entirely possible. I would have to hear more of End – his side of the story.”

“What do we know of twin flames?”

“Not much. I've only read about it in literature. We would need to call in Zoicite to explain more.”

“Very well.” The head Elder turned his attention back to Serenity. “Okay, Serenity, we have heard enough. We would like to thank you for coming and sharing your experiences with us. Again, when the games conclude, we will need to speak with you again. Until then, I hope everything remains...stable between the two of you.”

“Thank you.” Serenity didn't necessarily wait for their dismissal and stood up. She needed to talk to Ami and figure out what the 'twin flame' stuff was they were talking about.

“Do you need us to arrange for transportation, my dear?” It was the greying-braids woman who appeared again out of nowhere.

“No, thank you. It won't be necessary.” With a smile and slight bow to the Elders, Serenity teleported much the same as her Snevain had earlier.

“They are very powerful already. If this is a twin flames instance, we could be witnessing a new era. Not to mention if either of them were victorious in UMT, we could witness the births of legends.”

“Blocs don't mate outside their own territories...”

“They could change all of that.”

“They could be the hope we've been seeking for some time now.”

 

Her touch caused his senses to awaken, one by one. The smell of the mountain air became clean, fresh, and pure. The taste of smoked maplewood cinnamon played on his tongue. The palette of nature's colors visually bright, bold, and beautiful; the feeling of crisp, open-aired wind rushing over him; the heightened sound of the roaring waterfall in the distance. The emotional intensity mingled with the sensuous realm she evoked from within him was inexplicably boundless.

Endymion was wondering the base of the mountain, hoping to clear his head. The past two days had been overwhelming. He was calling on every spirit he knew to strengthen his mind and allow him to get by the remainder of the tournament.

His frustration was growing with every passing minute as he quietly cursed a longing he could not satisfy or ignore. She was tormenting his thoughts by day and dreams by night and it was only getting worse. He ran his hand through his hair...

“You're going to pull all your hair out if you keep that up.” Jadeite teased.

“You're going to get pulverized if you keep popping up when I'm trying to be alone.” Endymion squared, shooting deadly daggers with his eyes.

“If looks could kill... Turning violent now, are we?” amused Jadeite with a cocky grin and raised eyebrow.

“There does seem to be a bit of hostility and much anger arising out of you as of late, your highness.” Nephrite walked through a portal, hands in his robe's pockets. Endymion turned his gaze to the worrisome look on the facial features revealed from Nephrite and then back to Jadeite's arrogant one.

They had been using their coined titles for him lately and it started to unsettle him. He felt he was no more powerful or deserving than any of them. Endymion did not understand the significance of their loyalty to him, but he respected and appreciated it. He knew he could return the favor for any of them.

With a growl for an exhale, “I'm sorry. I have no idea what is happening with me. I feel as though I have no control over my own emotions.” Endymion was beyond frustrated. He hated the thought of losing control of himself and more-so of the unknown.

“Endymion. The Elders request an audience with you.” It was the platinum-blonde Selas from earlier, appearing from a portal. All his Selas advisors – friends, wore the same robe the announcing Elder Selas wore, but in ash-grey.

Endymion cursed under his breath. “What now?”

“They wish to speak to you about your Grailld.” He answered in a stoic manner. “They believe the two of you share a twin flame connection.”

Endymion did not miss the your. 'My Grailld...' A lump formed in his throat that he couldn't swallow. “Twin flame?”

“I dunno, but Zoi is there. Let's go pick his brain.” Jadeite replied, hopping through the portal.

With a nod, Nephrite followed.

“Kunzite?” Endymion didn't understand what was going on between him and his Grailld and certainly had no idea what twin flame meant. “What are your thoughts?”

There was a hesitation before he responded.

“My lord, I believe she alone has the ability to hold your fate in the palm of her hand.” Without a chance for Endymion to question him more, he disappeared into the portal, leaving it open for Endymion to follow.

 

The room Endymion ended up in was on Caria. It was considered an observation room where the Selases had a view of Eariter below, Kalyke to the left, Calyce to the right, Herse straight ahead, and the vast universe behind it. There were windows covering every wall in its entirety of the grand circular room. The sun was starting to set, warm glows of lavender and orange were canvassed behind the Kalyke moon. The sky was getting darker as it stretched from one end to the other.

When Endymion entered the room, all eyes focused on him. The room's occupants consisted of him, his four closest advisors, the Morgan Freeman lookalike, the red-headed woman, and a tall, burly fellow with white hair and a matching long, thick beard.

The questions asked of him consisted primarily of the same ones they had asked Serenity earlier with his responses essentially the same as hers.

Endymion sat in a crescent shaped chair that appeared to be floating in mid-air. He was holding his arm where she touched him earlier as he watched the sun slowly vanish behind the horizon. He answered their questions, not really looking in their direction. His behavior had drastically changed since his initial encounter with the Grailld and he wasn't sure why or if it even mattered. He remembered how his advisors had mentioned his demeanor shifting: anger, indifference, impatience. Never did he have a reason for those characteristics, so it was unusual for his closest confidants to see Endymion portray them.

“Do you know who the Grailld is?” The red-head asked, arms crossed haphazardly.

Endymion looked at Jadeite who just smirked back at him. “No.”

“We hear you can feel her sense of touch?” She, again, was the one inquiring.

“Unfortunately...yes.” He seethed between clenched teeth. Irritation plastered his stony expression as he recalled the events.

The red-head wanted to ask why it was so unfortunate, even if it was to stew him a little more. She restrained. “And how so?”

“If and when something or someone touches her, I. Can. Feel. It.” The someone was stressed and the last words emphasized. His fists clenched, whitening his tanned knuckles.

There was the answer to the unasked question.

“What makes your anger come about?” The Elder leader asked.

A light chuckle was heard. Everyone looked, startled and stunned, at the source.

“Your guess is as good as mine. Ever since I acquired this link to her, I have been acting strange. I don't even understand my own actions.”

“Can you ...feel her now?” The burly fellow spoke up for the first time. His interest undoubtedly piqued by now.

Endymion lowered his head. “No. I think she is using her powers to shield it.”

“How does that make you feel?” The Elder leader seemed intrigued by his erratic emotional state.

“Relieved. Confused.” He shook his head. “Disheartened.”

“Would you like us to shield your link with her, during the games?”

Endymion opened his mouth to reply, but nothing came out. He tried again. He contemplated her question for a bit.

“It doesn't matter. Regardless of our link, if I am near her, I will still remain ...unstable.” A thought came to him. “You don't suppose I could see her, do you?” He could only hope.

“Afraid not. The tournament is important. We need to finish it, unaffected.”

Endymion nodded.

“With that said, if the games become compromised because of your situation, we will shield the two of you from each other and manipulate your thoughts of one another if necessary.” Explained the head Elder, again, to Endymion this time.

Endymion wasn't sure what he meant by 'manipulating thoughts if necessary,' but didn't push the issue.

His sour mood returned. “I assume you've been well informed on what happened today between us, so if you don't mind, I would like to hear about this 'twin flames' situation, if you will.” Endymion's straight-to-the-point insistence was becoming understandable to them.

That was Zoicite's cue. He opened a book titled “Spiritual Relationships” and turned to the page marked with a pencil that was being used as a book mark. He cleared his throat.

“It says here,” he used the pencil to scan the words to find the passage he was looking for:

“Twin flames, also called twin souls, are literally the other half of our soul.
Twin flames couples have been extremely rare on the planet, and do not normally incarnate together, except for a higher purpose. Their primary reason for finding each other is because through their union, a huge birthing of creative energy is released, to be used for their mission together.

When twin flames do incarnate together, the coming together is often chaotic and stressful, physically, emotionally, mentally, and spiritually. Their relationship is very intense. To achieve the ultimate goal of the twin flames, total balance is needed by both of them on all levels.

They are sensitive to each other's energy flows and stresses. Being apart is like functioning at a reduced level. Together, they become balanced and more of who they are, just by being in each other's energy.
When Twin Flames reunite in physical form, an awakening occurs of a very special kind. The flames of each twin are ignited. Until this re-union, the flame has laid dormant. From this ignition comes coils of white light. As they grow closer in their connection on all levels, these coils entwine to form a caduceus – the two flames becoming one.
In separation, twin flames oftentimes feel illogically angry at each other for actions committed in your past lives. In order to merge as twin flames, everything that hasn't previously been healed, must be.
A twin flames tie is eternal.”

They all sat in complete silence for a while, soaking up the information Zoicite cited.

After a few moments, the Elder Selases thanked them for their time and excused themselves.

Endymion and his advisors stayed behind, interpreting their experiences with the information.

“Well, at least we know where his anger is coming from. Ser-she must have pissed him off in their previous life.” Jadeite's lips circled into a smug grin.

“You're only adding fuel to his fire, Jed.” Nephrite warned. “No pun intended.” He finished with a smirk and a wink to Jadeite.

With that, Jadeite started to crack up with laughter.

Endymion wasn't paying them any attention. He was enraptured with the knowledge of possibly understanding what was happening, finally.

Chapter 4: Day 3

Legends of Eariter
Day 3

A light drizzle began, bringing gentle rain to trickle through the umbrella-shaped canopies and onto the forest floor. The rain droplets brought a cool breeze that lightened the warm and humid air of the late morning.

Endymion was deciphering everything from yesterday's reveal. Kunzite's words perturbed him even more, clouding his thoughts in a whirlwind. In all his existence, he had thought himself to be the personification of steel, literally and figuratively speaking, with impenetrable perseverance. He would try to deny this fate – no, defy this fate.

So engrossed was he in his thoughts, he barely noticed the rain drops that began to seep through the sheer material of his spandex suit. It wasn't until Serenity appeared, being the last of the Elites to arrive, that his attention was diverted towards her.

She was on the other side of the dwindling group of Elites, a good 30 feet away. He didn't acknowledge her presence yet. The severity of the pull was evidently felt – feeling stronger than ever. It was undoubtedly due to the brief, possible explanation given to them on what the two of them shared with this pull. There is also the constant wonderment of it all and all of their attention being forced to focus on, allowing their minds to only think of it.

Soon after her arrival, the embrace of the male Grailld, who Endymion was beginning to detest, was felt through their link. Endymion did not want to turn and see the display of affection. He was starting to wonder if his Grailld knew what he was feeling and if she even cared to spare him the torture.

At the sound of voices, Endymion then turned. At first, he thought it was the Elites standing near him. He soon realized they weren't the ones chatting. Then he thought he was catching a telepathic conversation, even though he wasn't using his powers. Usually he would need to focus on someone or a group of people he would want to eavesdrop on, but he would need to use his powers to perform that task. He once used his ability to act as a mental relay station for a group of minds, allowing said minds to "speak" to one another through him, but that again required him to use his powers as well.

When he was finally able to identify the source of the voices, he first thought they were putting on a spectacle for everyone to witness. However, when he noticed that no one else was paying the Grailld couple any attention, he knew that was not the case. It seemed odd that he could hear their conversation as clear as a bell – perfectly sound – without using his powers and even with the combination of the splashing raindrops surrounding him.

As confused as he was, he ascribed the new found ability to be in connection with the link he shared with the Grailld. Not only did he not need to use his powers to listen to her conversation, but he could hear whatever was in her earshot as well.

“Why did the Selas Elders need to speak with you?” The male Grailld asked the female Grailld.

Endymion noticed a long hesitation before she began.“They just asked a few questions... about what is going on–”

“And, what, exactly, is going on?” He sounded demanding, interrupting her.

“I really don't know!” She replied with what Endymion perceived as frustration and confusion.

“Even so, why didn't you come see me after?” He sounded pained by her actions. The male Grailld grabbed her upper arms and started to soothe her by gently running his gloved fingertips up and down the length of her upper arms. Endymion's jealousy and annoyance with the man was piquing again.

Endymion heard her sigh. “I told you, I needed to speak with Ami... to figure some things out.”

“I could help you too, you know. You can tell me anything.” He grabbed her covered chin to make it appear as though she was looking up in his direction.

She nodded her head. “I know...”

He then gathered her into his arms, embracing her and stroking her back, comforting her and himself. “Please, let me help you with this!” He pleaded.

She pulled out of his embrace, stepping back from him while peeking at Endymion who was watching the entire scene. “Pan, please, stop! I don't want to discuss this here. Not now!”

As if sensing the Snevain's watchful gaze and knowing she was returning a glance at him, he desisted any further. “Fine, but as soon as this course is over, we are having this discussion, Serenity!”

And with that, the Selas Elder began his commencement speech, ceasing any further conversation between the two and bringing almost everyone's attention to the games.

The strange sensation of their voices tingled his ears. His Grailld's voice was beautifully soft and serene. The honeyed tone she had was pleasant and warmly soothing. “Serenity...” he whispered to no one. He just wanted to roll her beautiful name off his condemned tongue.

Her Snevain's ability of telempathy – the ability to communicate through emotions – was oppressively heavy on her heart. She hated to make him feel those awful feelings, but she couldn't shield him without the use of her powers and she couldn't get Pan to let up on his affections of her. Guilt was beginning to take effect on her and her ambivalence of Pan was transforming her feelings of fondness to feelings of uncertainty.

The tropical rainforest biome housed a biological diversity of wildlife, as well as vines, shrubs, trees, and epiphytes. Mature tree crowns and the various layers of canopy would typically shield the sun's rays, streaming only bits of sunlight through the leaves, surrendering the forest floor to barren darkness. Its vast loveliness, however, was an awe-inspiring sight.

Sounds of the strikingly colorful birds, the faint howling and babbling of primates, and the constant, astonishing chorus of insects, combining with the soft sounds of the rain sprinkling on the leaves and branches, made up the signature sounds of the rainforest. These sounds were slowly overridden to the pounding of footsteps, rustling of plants from passersby, and the beating of each individual's heart.

The first part of the course was running – a tremendously unique achievement. Elites maneuvered through winding paths, twisted and turned around massive boles of the forest giants, and navigated between narrow passageways of tightly cramped spiraled bark trees.

Pan followed behind Serenity very closely. If he could help it, he wasn't letting the Snevain anywhere near her. He felt that if he could keep them apart, whatever was happening between them, would simply disappear. Little did he know that just being in propinquity of each other, their bond was solidifying.

A few puddles were scattered about here and there throughout the course. There were a few times when Pan would sidestep in an attempt to avoid or dodge an imaginary obstacle, lining himself in Endymion's path so that Endymion would have to evade collision with Pan and skirt around him and also the puddles. Pan was hoping to either have Endymion slip in the puddles or fall in altogether.

Again, Endymion found it humorous at the attempts these intimidated Elites would use against him. The trivial pursuit of this Grailld was even more gratifying because Endymion knew the Pan was threatened and jealous over the rivalry Endymion posed.

The four remaining Forgles upheld the lead, being masters of the forest and its terrain. The Forgles were gifted with prehensile – able to grasp like a hand – feet and therefore perfectly emulated the local primates, allowing swift leaps, secure support, and powerful climbing abilities. Not all the Elites opted for the bestowed prehensile feet ability, giving those who did – like Serenity and Endymion – the extra skilled strength needed to vie for first place. In this case, toe shoes replaced the standard boots.

The next stage was vaulting over high and low hurdles of sawlogs from naturally occurring fallen tree lumber. Between each sawlog were complex root systems crisscrossing along the forest floor. Not only did the Elites need to efficiently traverse the lumber barriers, they also needed to execute fancy footwork over all the root entanglements.

A few Elites were found ensnared in the buttress roots, their feet trapped and being unable to extricate themselves. If unable to free themselves before the last non-entangled Elite crossed the finish line, they would be considered disqualified for being unable to complete the course.

Another stage of the course was climbing strangler fig trees up through the understory and above into the canopy level. During the ascent, Pan took the same tree Endymion chose and tried to out-rival and surpass him by gaining ground on the climb by using the same edges and corners Endymion reached for. No matter which way Endymion chose to go, Pan made every effort to thwart his advances.

Serenity could feel amusement, pride, and patience from her Snevain. After reaching the top of the Ficus and landing on the banyan tree that would cross over onto the rocks, she glanced down at the Ficus he inexplicably shared with Pan. She noticed the conniving tactics Pan was using against Endymion, amplifying her doubts of Pan.

Off the rocks, the Elites cliff dove into the glistening deep pools of water. Soon after Serenity's immerse, she could feel his presence nearby from their pull. She turned her head in his direction, finding him easily in the crystal-clear clarity of the upper water column nearer to the surface. Satisfied with his attention, she challenged him to a swim match, taunting him to chase after her as she fully turned his way and swam backwards.

Suddenly, a moment of déjà vu struck Endymion, a forgotten memory making itself known in his mind:

“Endy, here, this is for you.” A young man with strikingly similar features – almost an exact replica of his younger self – handed him a folded piece of paper. Prince Endymion took the paper and opened it. He recognized the copperplate cursive handwriting immediately as Princess Serenity's. A wide grin spread across his face as he read the note with the ambitious offer – an offer Prince Endymion would certainly not refuse.

'If you can catch me, you can have me.'

With sudden avid desire, he followed her with a great propulsion.

The distance wasn't too far – only the length of an Olympic-sized swimming pool. Here, some Elites floundered, but all the remaining Maquaids succeeded. Those Maquaids who were bringing up the rear of the group now found themselves advancing to leadership positions.

Despite the casual underwater frolicking between Serenity and Endymion, Serenity proved the superior swimmer. As they made their way to the lianas dangling from the forest canopy, they reached for the long-stemmed woody vines to haul themselves out of the water and began the vertical up-climb to the canopy area of the final stages.

The Elite's gymnastic skills were exhibited in the climbing of and swinging from one bushrope to another. The branches and vines were rooted and anchored in the treetops, allowing for easy grasping of them and smooth swinging.

In keeping with their playful behavior, Serenity and Endymion continued to challenge one another while whipping through the air from the snake-like vines, swaying from one to the next.

As Serenity reached for one, the vine snapped, bringing her plunging down until suddenly a strong arm swooped around her waist, catching her and pulling her into his hold with iron-grip strength.

A myriad of emotions started to pool in her chest and lower abdomen. A flutter of terror slammed her the hardest, followed by nervousness, caution, then relaxation, relief, and finally – togetherness.

His touch was like a blazing, uncontrollable inferno, hurling beams of white light in every direction. From a single spark, an inner fire was building, inflaming her skin with passion. Flames were streaking across her body, igniting an intense feeling that seemed intimately familiar.

A long-lost memory rushed Serenity and Endymion upon contact. A time of peace, on a sweet spring day...

'If you catch me, you can have me.'

He reread the note over and over in his head, the powerful incentive motivating him forward. Prince Endymion looked around, out from the veranda where he sat reading a book before his brother gave him her note. In the distance, he spotted her lolling on an arbor in the courtyard gardens.

When she noticed he had found her, she mirrored the grin he adorned on his already gorgeous face. Princess Serenity uttered a shriek when Prince Endymion flawlessly leaped the stone railing, landing gracefully perfect. She lifted her skirts, turned, and sprinted for the gate leading to the extensive vineyards.

Pushing through the gate, she gave a quick glance back and shrieked again as she watched him smoothly clear the first of three short hedges that separated them. Her peals of laughter echoed over the vine-lined hills as she made her way across the vineyard towards the Chai that doubled as a winery and eatery.

Before she could reach its door, she heard him stampeding behind her, not allowing her to catch her breath. With a squeal, she burst through the entryway, momentarily deciding which direction to take. Her indecisiveness brought about her defeat. Prince Endymion easily captured her, enfolding her in the warmth of his arms. He induced a fit of giggles to spill out of her when he tickled her neck with his panted-breath whisper,

“Caught you.”

“Are you okay, Serenity?” He asked her in a whisper with such concern in his low and husky voice.

She was stunned to hear him say her name, that he even knew it for that matter, but she recovered quickly. She simply nodded, and thanked him for saving her. With a last squeeze around her waist to tighten his hold of her and mold her body firmly to his, he released his grip as she reached for the closest bushrope. Before parting with him, she reveled in the familiar sensation spreading from her core to her entirety from his notably expressive contact.

Soon after, Pan appeared, seeking Serenity out to see if she was alright. She affirmed her adequate condition with a simple nod to him, knowing his evident concern of her. Directing his attention to Endymion, Pan tried to ram him as he attempted to swing into him from his vine. Endymion effortlessly dodged his charges with exult, furthering Pan's enmity of him.

The entwined lianas tangled together to form a bridge amidst the forest canopy. It crossed over a fairly wide stream, connecting the trees within the forest, and providing the Elites with a path that once passed over, would lead to the finish line. A female Forgle was the first to the finish line, followed by Serenity, a Maquaid, Endymion, and then Pan.

Pan quickly made his way to Serenity, asking her to join him somewhere private where they could finish their discussion from earlier. Endymion overheard the conversation and decided not to intrude on the couple to continue whatever development was progressing between him and Serenity.

“Only four more days left,” she whispered, wanting to commiserate with him. She watched as he nodded to her, like he actually heard what she said to him. 'Well, we are entitled to our powers again...'

With an impatient tug on her arm from Pan, she turned from Endymion and teleported her and Pan away, to somewhere more private.

 

“Look, Pan, we – ” Serenity started as she began unzipping the head part of her spandex suit so she could prepare herself to jump in her quadrant steam shower pod.

“Shhh, we can talk later.” He silenced her by placing a finger over her lips, lingering on her bottom lip a bit longer until slowly replacing said finger with his starved and greedy mouth. “Right now...” he stopped to allow a quick breath. “...I want,” then another “...to make up,” and another “...for lost time...” Pan helped her finish unzipping her suit down her back, never disengaging himself from her ambrosial taste.

His thumbs found her erogenous spot, the small of her back, making tender circling motions in a way that drove Serenity to the edge, usually, every time. When he heard her purr a whimper, he grinned in his kiss, running his fingertips to her waist and up her abdomen in a dilatory fashion. It wasn't until he lightly brushed over her now scantily clad hardened and taut tips did she finally awake from her libidinous stupor.

Serenity wasn't sure if this rendezvous was, to a certain degree, because of her earlier lecherous aches her Snevain initiated from her or the simple thought of one last tryst with Pan; though her heart presumed the former true.

“Wait.” She croaked as she applied a bit of pressure to his chest to ward him off of her. When he didn't cease his efforts, she demanded, “Pan, no. Stop.” She pushed him away harder. “We-I-I can't do this.”

He let out a long, defeated sigh, hanging his head in the crook of her neck.

“Damn that fucking Snevain!” He growled in a mutter.

In a confounded state, she asked, “Excuse me?”

He rose from her, his eyes locked with hers. “Ever since we started these games,” he paused, trying to think of the words he wanted to say. 'So beautiful,' he thought of her, distracting him, momentarily. Pan cupped her cheek, but Serenity kindly grabbed it and held it in her hands. He sighed again.

“You've become distant from me.”

Serenity gave him a sympathetically pained expression, fully aware of the truth in his words.

Turning his thoughts to the reasoning he presumed to be the cause for his troubles, he snarled through gritted teeth, “And it surely has everything to do with that idle-headed pompously magisterial windbag,” he alleged as he threw his hands in the air with each insulting word.

She couldn't help but laugh at his feeble attempt of disgracing the omnipotent Snevain. At the sincere outrage he displayed on his face, she sucked in her lips, suppressing any further laughter.

“I'm sorry.”

“Seriously, Serenity, what's going on with you? Why are you pushing yourself away from me?” He took her hands in his, pleading with her. “Tell me, what's going on?”

“Honestly? I have no idea. The Elders won't allow us, the Snevain and I, to communicate with each other so we can figure this all out. We have to wait until after the tournament. Until then, I won't truthfully know anything.”

He nodded at her response. Pan knew she was skirting around what he was actually asking her. “What about your feelings? How do you feel about us?”

She didn't want to answer him, knowing he wasn't going to want to hear her answer. They were bound to have this conversation sooner or later – later, at the longest, being the end of the tournament.

“My feelings aren't my own.” Serenity partially informed, thinking of Endymion's telempathy abilities. “In a manner of speaking.” She quickly added. He gave a puzzled look, but he didn't press her to explain.

“As for us...” She dropped her head, not wanting to see the look on his face when she admitted her careful consideration of their relationship and, more importantly, his feelings. “I don't want to give you any false hope. I'm not sure what will happen between him and I, and just in case something is there or does happen, I don't want you getting hurt.”

Pan admired her empathy. He perceived her decision as soon as he felt the spark and saw the electricity that radiated from the two yesterday. Nobody could doubt the connection between the two of them – no matter how much he abhorred the idea. He just needed to hear it from Serenity herself, as if, maybe – and a bit of wishful thinking – she would say otherwise.

She raised her head to meet his gaze when he didn't respond,. Serenity wanted him to understand something. “I just want you to know that I had no idea about him or any of this before this all started. You have to believe me.” She beseeched of him.

He gave her a sad smile of understanding. “I do, believe you.”

She tried to give him a reassuring smile.

Wanting to lighten the mood, he suggestively asked, “Sure you wouldn't want to be my paramour? I promise not to tell a soul.” He grinned.

She appreciated how he could turn the serious subject matter into effervescent humor.

 

The evening twilight faded, revealing a moonlit night. An erratic breeze flickered the tall flames back and forth in a mesmerizing dance. The warm hues of the roaring fire gave a sparkling contrast brilliance to that of the darkness. The sizzling crackles and pops and whispering hisses harmonized in a pleasing ballad.

Serenity was inhaling the thick, smoky scent of the burning punky wood. As the heat washed over her, rosing her soft cheeks, she began thinking of how similar she felt in comparison to the physical contact she shared with her Snevain. And yet also noticing how that spark never came about with Pan.

Her Snevain's touch was all consuming, giving off a scorching and passionate desire. A burning yearn filled her, steady yet, but always ablaze. It left her mind aflame with raging madness, igniting her heart, and engulfing her soul.

As she watched the vertical river of sparks, her eyes slowly drifted passed the flames and onto the faces hidden behind them. She stopped on a handsomely chiseled and sculpted face that would put a young David Beckham to shame. His genetically superior bone structure was illuminated by the soft orange glow, making his seemingly broad chin and square jaw inconspicuous. His bedroom eyes, true color undiscovered hitherto, hypnotized her in a state of complete trance. It was his charming grin that left her breathless.

Until then, she vaguely heard the chitchat her surrounding friends babbled. Wanting to calm herself and gain her senses back, she excused herself, claiming a restroom break was needed. Her powers were currently blocking the pull she shared with her Snevain, so she was unaware of who this Adonis-looking male specimen was.

Hearing her excuse to her friends, Endymion said the same to his friends so he could leave without anyone joining him. He walked in the direction of the restrooms, presuming Serenity would do the same. Regardless of what the Selas Elders cautioned, he was going to talk to Serenity vis-à-vis.

She made it to the clearing before he did. The luster of pearl in her tresses scintillated with vibrancy as it bathed in the silvery light of the moon. Resting low on her hips, her mango maxi skirt swayed as she walked and her white spaghetti strap lace overlay exposed the small of her back, arousing an immediate desire in his eyes.

“Serenity.”

She froze at his low and husky voice. The same voice she committed to memory. Her heart palpitated wildly. She turned slowly and found herself facing the godlike embodiment of a man she sighted moments ago.

A gust of wind tousled his onyx hair, blowing it over his sapphire eyes. He was breathtakingly gorgeous. She watched, transfixed as he flicked his lip ring, grinning at her. Her knees buckled at the tantalizing thoughts he provoked. He stood a tall frame of six foot three, well-built and muscular. His wide shoulders were displayed proudly in a fitted A-shirt, revealing a full-sleeve tattooed left arm.

Serenity dropped her shield, wanting to acknowledge with definite assurance that what she hoped to be true, was surely that – that her Snevain was indeed this divine mortal. As it fell, the pull practically crashed them together, bringing her within a hair's breadth of him. She quickly encompassed them, obscuring them from any prying eyes or electrical storm they would generate. The physical attraction they felt for one another was strengthening the bond. A few more encounters and these two would become involuntarily inseparable.

“It is you. My Snevain.”

He grinned again. “Your Snevain? Guess that makes you my Grailld then.”

She blushed profusely, not intending to say that last part out loud.

“H-how do you know my name?”

He scoffed. “I heard him call you by it.”

“Heard? How? We were–”

“A new quality of the pull, I suppose.”

“So you can feel the touch sensations I feel and you can hear my conversations? No wonder you heard me earlier...”

“What about you? Can you feel and hear me?” He brushed a curled strand away from her cornflower blue eyes that seemed to suddenly crystallize, making them look more like azurite gems.

Serenity shook her head. “I can only sense your feelings.”

She watched as he lowered his head and felt as he tickled the curve of her neck with his hot breath, causing her to tremble. “Oh? And what do you feel from me now?”

Her emotions were clouding her ability to think straight – to comprehend something so simple. Serenity's eyes closed unintentionally, indulging in the great pleasure he sent through her. If the moon were any brighter, he could probably make out the scarlet color that flushed her cheeks now.

Swallowing hard, she asked, “What's your name?”

Endymion barely heard her as her pure wildflower scent surrounded him, intoxicating him and fueling his lust. He gripped her hips but held her in place. They felt fire burning where his hands gripped her, fierce, yet very welcoming. Endymion luxuriated in the delicious tremors he evoked from her.

 

An imprinted memory played before her closed eyes like a blissful dream.

The sky began to darken a few shades, bringing their relaxing and joyful day on the beach to an end. Storm clouds rolled in bringing with it a significant breeze.

Before the rain would fall, Princess Serenity and Princess Rei jumped up from their picnic on the white sand and quickly gathered their belongings.

Prince Endymion was heading back to his beachfront sea castle after a few laps in the then calm ocean.

The princesses were making their way to the dock that would lead them to the castle's side entrance. The wind picked up speed, turning it into forceful gusts of wind. Princess Serenity's wide brim sun hat flew off and was blown across the sand. She stopped and turned, running after it to retrieve it. Princess Rei continued forward, unaware of Princess Serenity's predicament.

Prince Endymion ran to help Princess Serenity, mindful of her stubbornness. Her incredible obstinacy would keep her in the pouring rain, if necessary, for a dispensable hat.

When Princess Rei reached the safety of the castle, she realized Princess Serenity was no longer behind her. She quickly looked back and saw her brother with the princess. Princess Rei knew she was in his safe care and continued her way into the castle to wait out the storm.

A hefty rain started to pour, sending a bone-rattling thunder to boom throughout the sky. Prince Endymion led Princess Serenity to the covering of the stone bridge under the castle.

The afternoon storm made for quite a sight with spectacular lightning. The chilling air caused Princess Serenity to shiver, compelling Prince Endymion to warm her with his embrace.

The heat from his closeness brought about a searing need to relish in his taste.

“Kiss me?” She asked with fervency.

She didn't even need to ask. All he needed was her permission. How long he had waited for the chance to claim her lips with his.

The setting wasn't exactly what she always envisioned her first kiss to be, but the kiss itself was everything her fifteen-year-old mind imagined it to be: tender, sweet, gentle,and innocently chaste.

 

The tightening of his grip brought her back to the present.

“Kiss me,” she commanded.

He looked at her then and noticed how her eyes were glowing a soft blue radiance.

Endymion lowered his lips to her awaiting parted ones, but stopped just before he reached them.

“I can't. I won't be able to stop myself there, Serenity.” He let out a deep and long sigh, pulling away from her.

He had tortured himself with her nearness and now he couldn't stand for it any longer.

“You should get back. Your friends will be concerned and come looking for you.”

She inhaled deeply and nodded.

“Dream of me, until I can make those dreams come true.”

He gave her one last heartwarming grin and departed in his trademark swirl of wind.

Chapter 5: Day 4

Legends of Eariter
Day 4

From the top of the crescent dune, Endymion could see stunning landscapes of lush forests to his left and oceanic islands to his right. The view of the islands somehow elicited a memory to him. A memory that made his lips curl into a wide grin, his heart hammered as if he were actually experiencing the memory currently by partaking in the wondrous acts he viewed in his mind. 

The bright blue sky above with the sun brightly shining over the crystal clear water and the sea breeze giving off the warm briny scent, relaxed him from his royal duties. 

Making his way further down the beach, he noticed Serenity wading in the ankle-deep water. A gentle breeze was billowing her loose sleeves as she tried to tame her escaped hair that wisped about in the wind. Her beauty was purely unmatched, even at her young age of nineteen summers. There was no one else in this world who could even compare to her ethereal loveliness. He stood in the wet sand, simply watching the alluring nymph as ocean waves lapped, desperately trying to reach him. 

The water was calm and serene. It made it easy for Serenity to locate the pretty seashells spread about on the shallow shore. She came upon a unique looking one with an irregular shape of various warm colors. Once she picked it up, she examined it against the sun’s rays, almost as if to try to peer inside of it. 

“It’s called a marine oyster.” Endymion had made his way closer to her, glancing at her newfound discovery. 

“An oy-ster?” She asked, perplexed. 

He nodded his head and added, “It must have come ashore after the storm we had last night.” 

“Oh, it’s open!” She observed, showing him.  

“It’s dead then and is no longer edible.” He supplied with a frown. 

With a disgusted face, she replied, “Eww, you can eat these?” She turned the shell over, tapping it with her pink-painted fingernail.  

His laughter rangout. “Not the outer shell. But, the inner part inside the shell.” Endymion grinned. “In fact, they are very nutritious and have some health benefits. You can eat them raw or cook–”

“Raw?!” Serenity shuddered at the thought of eating the poor thing as is or was… 

Wrapping his arms around her waist, he pulled her to him, having her bottom flush to his pelvis so she could continue to study the bivalve mollusk. With laughter he continued, “Some even believe they are a natural aphrodisiac...” 

She opened the oyster, simultaneously as he said that, his statement passed over her completely as she observed the poor creature’s lifeless body. Endymion felt her shoulders slump, understanding her sadness. 

“While it is unfortunate that the creature died, it is not without remembrance of its life.” Softly taking the oyster from her, he showed her where whitish round stones were hidden beneath the creature’s body. 

Serenity gasped. “Are those – are those pearls?!” Reaching for one of the pearls, she admired the precious stone between her thumb and index finger. 

“They are. We can make a necklace and earrings with them, if you like?” He suggested as he handed the oyster back to her so he could pull her closer to him and place a kiss on the crown of her head. 

Carefully closing the oyster, she turned in his arms with a broad smile. “I would like that, Endy.” 

He bent his head to bring his lips to hers. After the soft kiss, she pulled back a little. Peeking up at him through luscious lashes, Serenity asked, “What about a ring?” 

His laughter rang out around them, her allusion not going unnoticed. “If that is what you desire, it shall be done!”  

This time she pulled him down for a kiss. It was now his turn to pull back. “With this pearl, which finger would you like it placed upon? Your right or left ring finger?” His ocean blue eyes sparkled mischievously at her. 

Her crimson blush confirmed to him of her understanding of his question. “I don’t need a ring to marry you, Endymion.” She answered honestly. 

His love for her bloomed even more, if it were possible. He scooped her up in his arms, her legs wrapping around his waist. Endymion kissed her with such breathless passion, she couldn’t tell if this was real or a dream. His kiss was perfectly pleasurable and uniquely theirs.  

Still holding her to him, he placed his forehead to hers and whispered, “Serenity, I would give you a million rings to marry me.”  

A soft sigh escaped her parted lips. “Oh, Endy.” Her heart felt as if it would burst from her chest. She cupped his face, bringing her lips to his eyelids, cheek, chin, and then to his awaiting mouth.  

“We don’t need a natural aphrodisiac…” Serenity observed his arousal for her pressing against her heat. His words came back to her all of a sudden.  

He let out a growl before wading them further out into the ocean so they could remain unseen by onlookers observing the ocean from the castle.  

Her laughter danced around him as she held onto him in his efforts to move them further out.

Endymion could still hear her laughter from the memory. His fists clenched at his sides. He wanted nothing more than to scoop her up and make his way down to those islands so they could continue that memory from life-times ago. 

The meeting between him and Serenity brought about a sudden rise of energy and a state of euphoria. The deep melancholic feeling of something long-gone missing was no longer there, even though it was only until recently that he had this feeling. She was someone he felt he recognized instead of someone who he needed to gradually get to know. And her beauty was familiar somehow, and absolutely breathtaking. Her image was permanently planted in his mind’s eye and he was not upset in the least about it. 

His thoughts and feelings were all so confusing. He hoped that soon this would all be settled and explained. His heart was beginning to feel whole again and life suddenly seemed ...almost complete. 

The gum Endymion chewed on was to help reduce the thirst discomfort he would surely experience today during the games in the desert. It tasted of wintergreen, also a product of mind perception to influence his brain, the suggestion of his body feeling cool in this heat. 

“Mmm. I love wintergreen. ” Her soothing voice rang in his wonderstruck head. A grin graced his features at the new ability she acquired, before turning into a frown. 

Endymion turned to look around him. She was nowhere in sight. “Serenity?” He whispered in the dusty wind. 

“I’ll be there soon, my love. ” His heart hammered at her term of endearment. The simple anticipation of seeing her had his painful heartache subsiding as he could sense her nearness. He calmed himself to prepare for her arrival. Endymion couldn’t run to her. He had to continue pretending they didn’t know who each other was. 

After their incidental encounter last night - of seeing the enticing goddess and experiencing the touching of her sweet, soft skin…a sweltering sensuality enkindled a lustful appetency to have more of her. The powerful regret of not tasting her delectable lips when she demanded it from him was more tortuous than tantalizing himself with holding her while restraining himself from engaging in her enchantment.

His thoughts drifted to what he should’ve, could’ve, would’ve done with her last night. One being how he would have lifted her skirt with agonizing grace before grazing her inner thigh with delicate fingertips while gently nuzzling her collarbone as he descended-

A moan-turned-coughing fit woke him from his erotic musings. Seems Serenity gained another newfound ability and could now envision his thoughts just as vividly as he could imagine them. 

The masculine pride Endymion felt at Serenity’s moan almost caused the casualty of discovery if he hadn’t been able to tame his manly ego. Instead he opted to gloat internally while all covered eyes were on Serenity who had now joined the designated area for today’s stage. 

Endymion couldn’t see her blood-rushed cheeks but he could feel the heat from her escaped embarrassment and the intensity of the ignited passion coursing through her veins. 

She started imagining waves of frigid water splashing around her as she remembered arctic swims in polar ice temperatures. The heat of the desert was nothing in comparison to the furnace her Snevain was bringing about and nothing short of those arctic swims could cool her lava-flowing-flushed body. 

The Elder was giving his commencement speech, allowing Serenity to focus on the course instead of the Godlike temptation whose proximity was only a tall rock pillar away. 

Today’s game was desert racing through a naturally created sand labyrinth. The Elites had to choose between a motorbike or a quad to maneuver through the maze-riddled tunnel systems. With no intelligent force behind the construction, the sand caverns lacked any sort of pattern or order, making the time completion of this course unknown. 

The Dreseats were similar to camels in their ability to survive the harsh living conditions that accompany desert life. They have tiny blood veins where heat can escape from, helping keep their bodies cool. The bloodstream is also where the Dreseats store their water reserve without increasing blood pressure. Being able to regulate their body temperature can help them control their perspiration so they don’t lose much water.

They have thick skin that helps block out the sun’s hot rays while also keeping them warm during the cold desert nights. Their skin tone matches that of the colored sand around them, camouflaging them if the need arises. 

Every Elite participating in the desert games opted for the Dreseats’ survival abilities. Not knowing the length of time it would take to finish this game was enough for every Elite to consider the dreadful possibilities. 

As expected, the Dreseats started well and remained in the lead for the first few hours. Serenity and Endymion knew their best chance for completing this stage, not even considering winning this stage, was to keep up with the Dreseats. They knew their territory and the tough conditions better than anyone. And so together they trailed the Dreseats. 

No one could tell how much of the course they completed as the day passed, but the Elders could tell by the distance advancement that they were a quarter shy of the end. 

The sun was setting, already changing the temperature drastically. Without the aid of the sun’s bright light, traversing the tunnels was going to be more difficult.

With the motorbikes they had chosen, they were making their way through the tunnels when they heard an ear-piercing scream. Endymion and Serenity looked at each other before doing their best to gain more speed to find the source of the scream. When they arrived, one female Dreseat was visibly upset as she tried clawing at the collapsed tunnel of fallen sand and stone. 

“No, no, no, no, no!!” The female Dreseat screamed. Endymion and Serenity started to help her before a loud rumbling caused them to stop and view what was happening. The tunnel next to the one they were currently trying to dig out, was starting to crumble. Endymion pushed the Dreseat out of the way before the sand and stone could buckle on her. This then caused him and Serenity to be trapped on the other side of the fallen sand and stone next to the other caved-in tunnel. 

After the dust settled and they were able to cough out the remaining inhaled particles, Endymion, who shielded Serenity from the rubble, checked her over for any injuries. The intense worry that slammed her hard was overwhelming, causing Serenity to fall back from the force of it. She did her best to assure him she was okay so that his worry would subside. 

When it finally subsided and Endymion slumped down from the adrenaline dump, Serenity continued to try and dig out whatever the Dreseat was trying to get at. She believed it to be a fellow Dreseat and Serenity was not going to leave anyone behind, let alone die if she could help it. 

“Serenity, what are you doing?” Endymion asked, alarmed with how more sand was starting to fall around her at her antics. 

“We need to find them before it’s too late!” Serenity continued what she was doing with more fervor, as if something was taking over her. A fuzzy memory started to come to light. 

“Wait!” She hollered after him as she tried to catch up to him. When she grabbed his wrist, she whispered, “Please...wait.” 

“What?” He simply replied, annoyed, half turning to her, but not looking at her.

“Can we talk? We should discuss –”

“Save it, Serenity. I've heard everything you've had to say since you left the forest. SEEN everything!” He interrupted bitterly with a scowl. 

She dropped his wrist that she still held. A flabbergasted look appeared, unseen by him, until she started thinking back to what would appear to him as an intimate encounter she shared with Seiya earlier.  

“...What...? You....heard...no – seen.. Why…why are you…” She attempted to reach for him again, but he stepped back, away from her as if she were holding the bloody dagger that she just stabbed him in the heart with. 

“...But... how come...how did you know where...when did – you?” Her emotions were clouding her ability to think straight – to comprehend something so simple.

“You mean how come you didn’t know that I returned? Returned to claim what is MINE? MY betrothed?!” He was lurching towards her angrily. 

“How I wanted to surprise the woman I love.” His fingertips lightly brushed the side of her face. Tears started to stream down, trailing wetness down her colored cheeks. “Whom I love more than anything in this godforsaken world!?” He retched his hand away from her and she choked on a strangled sob. What right did she have to cry like this? 

“You couldn't comprehend the hurt, anger, ...BETRAYAL you inflicted on me with your actions - so caught up in his mesmerizing gaze and lingering touches??” Endymion spit out the words with what he made feel like disgust to her – of her. He looked at her now, trying to convey his words with agonizing intent so she could feel an iota of the pain he was currently experiencing because of her. The thought of that man looking - no - touching what was his; his blood started to boil from the anger and the adrenaline being produced and his mind went green with jealous rage. 

Serenity’s eyes were glowing a soft blue radiance and her eyes almost seemed crystallized from all the tears spilling forth. Her breath caught as he bore into her soul with his haunting eyes.

Sobbing uncontrollably, he looked away from her. He wanted to console her, his only love, for what he was doing to her with his hurtful words, but what she had done to him… could he even forgive her? 

Letting the words sink in, she thought back. “...Wait. That's not fair.”

“What's not fair, Serenity?” He bellowed as he turned back to look at her. The audacity of her claim!  

“What's between Seiya and I...he was only showing me compassion …after all of this...” Her hand gestured between herself and Endymion. “...after you LEFT ME!” She screamed at him in frustration. “You DESERTED me, ABANDONED me. For a YEAR!!” Serenity slumped to the ground, deflated from all the emotions running amuck. 

Now he was confused. His eyebrows knitted together trying to recall what she was speaking about. “What are you talking about?”  

“What am I talking about?” She jumped up and barked back at him with hysterics. “Don’t you play dumb now. I received your letter - terminating our relationship, our BETROTHAL! You even ordered me to be immediately removed from your castle!!” She was pounding on his chest with her fists. “How could you do that to me? Do you have any idea what THAT put me through?!”  

Memories, thoughts, explanations, were all running a mile a minute through his mind. ‘What is she speaking of?’ 

Serenity turned from him and fell to the ground again. “I thought… I thought you died…” She whispered. “Thank goodness for Rei… for… for… sav-” 

Endymion dropped to his knees behind her. He wanted to reach out to her but how could he after everything he just accused her of and everything she just confessed? 

“Serenity. Serenity, please tell me, what color was the letter you received?” 

“What?” She turned back to him, her eyes puffy from crying, her cheeks scarlet, her lips parted and swollen… He couldn’t help but run his finger across the bottom of her lip before cupping her face with both hands. His beautiful blue eyes were also swimming in tears.  

“Please try to think back. What color was the letter?” Endymion had an idea of what happened and he swore to the gods above he would torture every last one of them for simply putting this distress on his beloved - not counting the pain and suffering both of them went through this entire time. 

“Ivory, why?” Endymion pulled her into his embrace then, falling back so he could hold her, comfort her, soothe her, love her…

“Didn’t you know my letters to you were always pink. Your favorite color.” 

“Yes, I was confused at first, but everything you wrote about-” 

“Fucking Dolus. He did this. He asked me to write a letter for him to give to his betrothed. He wanted to end things with her, but instead he delivered that letter to you. I should have known better…”  

Endymion lifted her face so he could look into her grieving blues. “You believe me, right? Serenity?” She nodded and started crying again. “I am so, so very sorry.” He held her tighter and kissed the crown of her head. 

“Can we get past this? Do you still love me?” Endymion asked her quietly. 

Serenity looked up at him incredulously. “I will need time to process all of this and recover from this train-wreck of a year…” 

He nodded in understanding. “Take as much time as you need. I would wait an eternity for you.” Pulling away from her, she stopped him. 

“No! Please don’t leave me again! I want to recover from this with you!”   

Then his lips descended to hers, his soft kisses felt like sweet torture.  

“Endymion, never let me go.”  

“Never.” 

Serenity started to cry. Endymion couldn’t see her tears because of the suit, but he noticed her shoulders slump forward before she fell to her knees. He rushed to check on her. 

“Love-Serenity? Are you okay?” His tender touch and gentle voice soothed her.

“I thought… I thought you died…” She confessed. “Please don’t ever leave me, Endy…Endymi…Endymion…” Her agony punched the air out of his lungs. She was referencing their past life. He hadn’t failed to notice her calling him by his real name either. 

Endymion wrapped her in his arms and molded her to his body. 

“These memories…thoughts…experiences - whatever they are, are so confusing… and taxing on me.” 

Holding her, he agreed. “I know. For me too.” 

“We still have to finish this stage, with two more to go.” She reminded him and herself. Bringing her attention back to their current situation. Pulling away, she assessed their options. Being in his arms was bringing back feelings and emotions she wanted to explore further. But now was not the time. She needed to focus.    

He let her go. It was then he noticed the lack of sparks flying between them. Either they were maturing in this relationship of theirs or… he didn’t even want to think of the alternative. “Hey, meet me somewhere after we finish this race, okay?”  

“Okay. Where?” 

“Do you know where the waterfall is at the base of the mountain?” 

She nodded. 

“Let’s-” 

A loud boom sounded before sand and rock crumbled, revealing a wide enough hole for them to squeeze through. In that hole was the Selas Endymion was seen speaking to before. 

“Kunzite!” Endymion praised his comrade. “Thank you for finding us so quickly.” Kunzite nodded but shot a quick glance to Serenity. Kunzite’s words from earlier coming back to him. 

“...she alone has the ability to hold your fate in the palm of her hand.” 

“What about the Dreseats stuck in there?” Serenity pointed to the rubble behind her. 

“We will take care of it.” Just then three more Selases showed up. 

A tall brunette Selas jumped through the hole, trying to usher Serenity and Endymion out of the hole. “You two need to continue or you will fall behind or be disqualified.” 

“We can’t let that happen.” It was said by a man with long blonde hair tied back with a string, outstretching his hand for Serenity to take. 

“Luckily everyone else was also stuck in this area until we could make a path.” The shaggy-haired Selas winked. “We cleared the path for you two first, but you have to hurry.” 

Serenity didn’t know what to think of their actions. Were they cheating? What did it matter if they placed first? She just wanted to finish this damn race. Her mind was at ease when she saw them clear the path of the Dreseats she was working on saving. 

“Here are your bikes. Now go!” She didn’t need any further prompting. Her bike roared to life.  Serenity heard Endymion thanking the Selases, but she was eager to get out and away from this sand. 

---

It was about an hour after the race. Serenity was waiting at the base of the mountain for Endymion to arrive. It was late at night and the stars were shining brightly, illuminating her immediate surroundings. It was still too dark for her to view the majestic waterfall, but she would get to see it tomorrow when they had their stage in the water. 

She thought back to the end of today’s race. Two Dreseats passed the finish line before her and Endymion could. He allowed her to cross first, putting her in third place for this race. Shortly after that, he sent her a quick message through telepathy: ‘ Remember our deal? ’ She nodded and he disappeared in a whirlwind.  

---

“What the hell, Endymion?!” It was Nephrite who questioned him. 

Zoisite balked with an open mouth. “You cannot be serious.” 

“I don’t give a shit about this tournament anymore.” Endymion slammed his glass down on the table as he stood up. 

Kunzite stared at him with impassive eyes, only listening to their conversations. 

“You cannot possibly mean that. Think of all the good that will come to your territory…” Zoisite was trying to reason with him. 

“It doesn’t matter anymore!” Endymion swiped the glass off the table, sending it flying across the room and shattering into a million pieces as it collided with the brick wall. “ She is my reason for existing.” He looked at each and every one of them, challenging them to say otherwise. 

“I can feel it.” He glanced to his hands, raising them to show them the electricity that was sparking, traveling from one hand to the other. “ She makes me feel more powerful than any tournament victory ever could.” 

They looked at him with wonder, yet hesitated to agree. 

Kunzite pushed himself off the wall. He was the only one who had enough courage to dispute Endymion’s claims. “How do you know this type of power will not destroy you or her , even? What if it’s evil based and will destroy our world? You don’t know enough about your past with her. Maybe there was a reason you two were separated?”  

Pain. There it was again. Endymion was feeling that a lot lately. Kunzite was Endymion’s favorite and his wisdom was always highly regarded and considered in his decision making. So it was hurting Endymion to hear his best friend disagree with his heart.  

“How do I know that it’s not you who is keeping me from being with her?” Endymion questioned all of them but kept his eyes on Kunzite. 

“Your anger only seems to come about when we are around.” Nephrite clearly specified.  

“Touché.” Jadeite commended. 

“I don’t want to fight with you all. Help me with this.” Endymion’s hands were pulsing with white light now.  

“It won’t be easy.” Zoisite declared.

Endymion smirked, happy to have his friends back. “The best things in life never are.”

Jadeite snorted before he could stop himself. “What are you — a Hallmark card?” 

Even Kunzite smiled at that.

---

They needed privacy for a tête-à-tête conversation. That's why he asked her to meet him at the waterfall. And now he was running late meeting her. He hoped she hadn’t left yet. His friends didn’t agree with him when he told them he was going to meet up with Serenity and that delayed him. Fortunately they were willing to help him, even if it was begrudgingly. 

Teleporting was the easiest way to get around, but it also left an invisible trail for someone to follow him with. So he had to travel the normal way, with a few diversions here and there. Something else that was delaying him. 

Endymion didn’t see her at first when he arrived. He looked around one area and would travel to another area in hopes of finding her. Thoughts of her leaving because of his lateness panicked him. They really needed to talk. 

Just as he was about to give up, her scent surrounded him, tantalizing him. He inhaled deeply, slowly releasing his breath through his mouth. 

Serenity was laying on a large moss-covered, smooth rock. Her eyes were closed, indicating she must have fallen asleep waiting for him. He felt guilty for making her wait when this was his idea. 

Not knowing how long she slept for, he watched her for a bit, feasting his hungry eyes on her delicious-looking body. It wasn’t as if her body was exposed - far from it. She was completely bundled up in a matching sweatsuit with the sweater being a little oversized for her perfect figure. Serenity wasn’t coming here to seduce him. She wanted to be comfortable from their strenuous and long day.

But his body responded to hers whenever it was near. Baggy clothes or not, he knew what her figure felt like and if his memory served him correctly of their past life, her body was exquisite. 

Endymion could no longer keep away from being near her. He approached her carefully, only caressing her face when he crouched down to be eye-level with her. 

“...you prom-ised…” 

Her words startled him. She must be sleep-talking, he surmised. Endymion brushed a stray hair away from her eyes. 

“...stay…love me…” 

Endymion wanted to wake her, but now he was curious as to what she was dreaming about - who she was dreaming about…

He placed a soft kiss on her lips. 

“...Dimi…” 

His lips curled into a grin. Now that he knew, it was time to give her the real deal. A dream he had recently of her clued him in on her favorite way to wake up… but he couldn’t do that with her yet, so he opted to gently massage her head with gentle fingers. 

Serenity stirred at his ministrations. “Endy?” His smile brightened at her shortening of his name. 

“Sorry, I must have fallen asleep.” She rose up and yawned, rubbing her eyes awake. 

“No, it’s okay. I’m the one who is sorry. I was detained and couldn’t get to you sooner.” He smiled as he stood up to sit next to her on the rock. His arms wrapped her waist, pulling her to him to keep her comfortable and warm. 

“‘Sokay. Mmm, you smell good and are so warm.” She snuggled into him deeper. His chuckle vibrated across her body. Her body started to react to his and she gripped onto his fitted sweater tighter, her dreams still fresh in her mind. 

Serenity pulled back to look at him. His head turned her way when she sat up. She reached up to touch his face, being gentle and exploratory, as though she were mapping the planes of his face, memorizing each detail.  

He repositioned her so she was facing him, sitting in his lap. His restraint demonstrated with fistfuls of her sweatpants placed firmly at the side of her outer thighs. 

Taking a deep breath of his natural scent mixed with his cologne, she slowly ran her hands down his clothed chest, resting on his abdomen. His intake of breath to calm himself had her smirking. The muscles of his abdomen shuddered at what she would do next. She began lifting the sweater slightly to allow her hands under it to run her soft hands up his firm and chiseled torso. Her hands were slightly chilled by the night air so her touch to his heated body caused an inferno to erupt into liquid fire through his veins.  

His tailored jeans couldn’t hide his arousal and so when she felt it, a shaky moan escaped her parted lips. There was that moan again and this time he could gloat in delight.  

She arched her back and tilted her head, exposing her neck. It was an invitation and he accepted. He left open-mouthed kisses along her neck and jaw, nipping, sucking, and licking along the way. 

Her hands threaded through his hair, keeping him in place or bringing him closer. Her breath was staggering and her body started convulsing. His hands still rested at her sides, but she wanted him exploring her body with them. 

Coaxing him, she began to slowly grind over his erection, the friction helping her body with some kind of reprieve as well. Endymion’s hands were tightening and pulling and pushing against her thighs as she rocked her sensual body over him. 

“This isn’t talking.” He tried, not really wanting to end this heavenly torture.

She laughed. “I don’t want to talk right now.” Then she removed her sweatshirt, exposing her lace bra. Her heaving swells and perky tips enticed him more than water could to a thirsty man. “Unless it’s me telling you to go faster or harder.”  

“Fuck, Serenity!” Endymion was on the edge of succumbing to the temptress’s seduction technique. All he needed to do was nip at the perfect peak positioned for his mouth’s pleasure... 

Lust was in possession of Serenity and she didn’t want to release it. Her desire for Endymion was stronger than anything she had ever experienced. She would give up everything just to experience a passion-filled session with him. It was honestly so startling and should scare her, but she could think of nothing else but having him deep inside of her, bringing her to rapturous delight, while being high on ecstasy. 

Waves of fire were roaring through her trembling body and white-hot flames were licking at Endymion. His body was only waiting for the oxygen that would fuel this fire and Endymion giving in was that oxygen.

There wasn’t a single thing on this planet that fired his imagination or his hunger the way she had. Like some exotic siren of myth and legend, she had captured his soul with her smile, his heart with her laughter, and now he couldn't think of anything else. 

In the back of his mind, his heated discussion with his friends from earlier was nipping at him. ‘What if this power is evil based or would destroy us or this world?’ 

A moment of clarity revealed itself. It was of him and Serenity, some time in the past. It was something he shared with her. 

Endymion bowed his head, but didn’t touch her chest. “As much as I want this…” He laughed and pulled his head back up. “Gods how much I want you, Serenity…the only one and thing I want right now…” She smiled sweetly at him. “We cannot do this right now.” Her face fell, a frown replacing that beautiful smile. He brought his hand up to cup her cheek. 

“For all of eternity, you will always be the most beautiful shining star of all.”  

As if a spell broke, Serenity froze. Her eyes blinked several times before she shook her head to clear her head. When she came to, she looked at Endymion with confusion. 

“En-dy-mion?” She blinked again at him. “When did you get here?” 

He could only stare at her. Was she really put under a spell? Possessed? What happened? 

“I’m sorry I’m late. You fell asleep. Let’s try to talk another night.” He stood up then, sliding her down. It was only then that she realized she was sitting in his lap. And her sweatshirt was missing. She covered her chest as best as she could as Endymion bent down to pick it up and hand it to her. 

“I promise you that nothing happened between us. You sleep-talk, but maybe you sleep-walk too?” His smile expressed a warming feeling of a possible truth. 

“Maybe.” She said as she pulled the sweatshirt back on. A little embarrassed at that thought, but her heart told her Endymion was hers and she was safe with him. 

“Let’s get you home.” He put his arm around her shoulder, pulling her in close. 

His smell was intoxicating, comforting, and very familiar… “Thank you.”

Chapter 6: Day 5

Legends of Eariter
Day 5


The hidden cove, a secret jewel, pulsed with life. Above, the sun kissed the crystal-clear waters, painting the seafloor with a mesmerizing ballet of light and shadow. Below, the ocean shimmered in gradients of sapphire and jade, sunlight filtering through the waves to illuminate the grand underwater arena. Carved into a vast reef trench, the arena itself glowed with the vibrant hues of neon corals and the subtle gleam of tech pylons.

Coral towers and towering kelp forests framed the treacherous course, while a throng of spectators gathered to witness the spectacle. Cheers erupted from both above and below, as fans packed into submersible stands, bubble pods, and floating domes, their shouts echoing into the depths. The air itself felt thick with anticipation as representatives from each bloc converged at the starting line, their hearts thrumming with a mixture of excitement and raw nerves.

The course was a gauntlet, a meticulously designed maze of obstacles crafted to push even the most seasoned swimmers to their absolute limits. Rings hung suspended in the water, demanding precise maneuvers to navigate without so much as a whisper of a touch. Barrels, seemingly tossed haphazardly, created a chaotic path that demanded lightning-fast reflexes and even quicker thinking. And then there were the weights, anchored to the seafloor, testing competitors' sheer strength and stamina as they were forced to drag the cumbersome objects through the water.

Each contestant was outfitted with next-gen artificial gills, sleek biomechanical vents nestled along their necks, allowing them to breathe effortlessly underwater. They also had the option to switch between powerful legs and graceful, sleek mertails, a strategic choice that spoke volumes about their individual styles.

The competitors hovered behind the starting line, a tableau of focused intensity. Fins twitched subtly, and eyes, sharpened with determination, remained locked on the daunting course ahead. 

A Maquaid, her gill-laced suit flowing with nanofibers that mimicked the iridescent scales of a fish, toggled her elegant mertail into place. A subtle narrowing of her eyes betrayed a fierce, almost primal, connection to the water; it was clear she lived for this.

Endymion stood a little apart, his broad shoulders encased in streamlined plating. His powerful legs were boosted by hydro-thruster boots, an option for those who preferred raw propulsion over a mertail. He adjusted a wrist cuff, his gaze sweeping the course with a calm intensity that belied the thrum of anticipation in the arena.

Serenity, with a natural grace that transcended mere skill, seemed less like a swimmer and more like a part of the water itself. She neither swam nor kicked so much as drifted, gliding through the currents as though the water itself parted to welcome her. Each stroke was smooth, silent, and imbued with an ethereal grace, a testament to her mastery. 

Her eyes, hidden, but somehow still seen and felt by Endymion, were luminous and serene as they met Endymion’s covered eyes across the starting line. A flicker of warmth, a silent acknowledgment, passed between them – a telepathic whisper of shared excitement and perhaps, something more. You ready for this? her thought brushed against his, a playful challenge. She could feel the subtle smile that touched Endymion’s lips, a silent agreement. Always.

A deep, resonant conch horn echoed from the Judge’s platform, the sound rippling through the water, stirring the anticipation to a fever pitch.

GO!

The Elites surged forward, slicing into the course with explosive bursts of motion. The arena dissolved into a blur of activity—through hoops, into tunnels, around barrels, each obstacle more chaotic than the last.

The ring descent came first, a vertical tunnel of massive metal hoops anchored by glowing beacons. Maquaids, with their powerful tails whipping with perfect control, surged ahead, spiraling down like silver torpedoes. A Forgle corkscrewed just behind them, spinning the water around them like a maelstrom, yet she moved forward untouched, slicing through the turbulence with a quiet strength, as if the storm itself obeyed her silent command. One Dreseat, in a display of brute force, bulldozed through a ring that was too tight, sending a shower of sparks flying. Another Dreseat seemed to blink—literally vanishing and reappearing three hoops down, a testament to the incredible speed of their hydro-thruster boots. The crowd gasped, a collective intake of breath.

Next, the spinning barrels emerged, suspended in mid-current, each one rotating and drifting like sentient obstacles. A Grailld, relying on shear strength, swam straight through the chaos, shouldering past the rotating behemoths. The Clairds, with an almost preternatural sense of timing, waited, reading the barrels' rotations like a dance partner, slipping through the precise moment they aligned. Dreseats, with exaggerated flair, bounced between them, one even pushing a barrel to disrupt a Snevain’s trajectory, though the Snevains barely reacted, almost anticipating such a petty act.

Then came the weighted pull. Each competitor had to grapple with a dense titanium shell—a minimum of 200 pounds—and drag it across a trench floor to trigger the gate ahead. One Maquaid, with remarkable ingenuity, clipped it to her tail, using wide, elegant strokes to pull the cumbersome weight. A Forgle, a picture of raw power, heaved the weight one-handed, planting his hydro-thruster boots into the sediment and marching forward with grim determination. Another Dreseat cheated slightly, subtly guiding the shell onto a down-current and riding it halfway, earning a few murmurs from the more observant spectators. A Claird, with an almost ethereal touch, somehow lifted hers, floating forward as if the weight were no more than a pebble, without displacing a single grain of sand.

Next was the Free Swim. Those who had successfully navigated the previous stages launched themselves into the open water. A Dreseat, seemingly unfazed, slammed through a tunnel wall but continued swimming without a missed beat. Two Forgles zipped past, their movements a blur, taunting those they overtook with playful splashes. The Maquaid, a vision of pure form, maintained her calculated movements, her tail creating ripples of silver as she banked gracefully around a coral tower. Mina, the Claird, flowed eerily silent behind them all, occasionally seeming to vanish into a shadow, only to reappear from a new, unexpected angle.

The ramps and bridges added a thrilling verticality to the course. Endymion hit a ramp at full speed, his hydro-thruster boots propelling him into the air, soaring over an archway with a powerful thrust. A Maquaid took a bridge low, weaving under crossbeams where hundreds of electric eels pulsed with dangerous blue light, threatening to slow anyone who dared to touch them. Forgles, opting for brute force, ignored the ramps entirely, using their strength to scale a vertical current instead. Serenity, with an almost magical fluidity, appeared to simply slide through a solid-looking stone bridge like smoke through cracks, her form shimmering as she passed through. Impressive, Endymion thought, a silent compliment sent her way. Serenity’s response was a soft flutter of warmth, a quiet acknowledgment of his admiration.

Finally, the Jelly Net, the ultimate hazard. Dozens of bio-mechanical jellyfish drifted in a confined corridor, their stingers glowing with ominous blue arcs. Contact meant an instant two-second shock delay. Some Clairds, with their precise movements, cut low, darting effortlessly between the pulsing tentacles. Forgles, with their characteristic resilience, tensed and plowed through the middle, taking the zaps but never slowing their powerful momentum. The Maquaid, however, opted for an astounding display of control: she simply floated still, perfectly suspended, and allowed the jellyfish to drift harmlessly around her, their glowing stingers passing within inches of her skin. Spectators erupted, their cheers reaching a fever pitch, witnessing such daring artistry.

As the Maquaid flowed effortlessly through the Jelly Net, a ripple of excitement surged through the crowd. Endymion, momentarily distracted by her masterful technique, felt a jolt of his hydro-thrusters as he powered through the last few bio-mech jellyfish, taking a glancing blow but pushing through the mild shock. She’s incredible, he thought, a flicker of admiration for the Maquaid.

Serenity, having slipped through the stone bridge as if it were mist, was already at the edge of the Jelly Net. She paused, a momentary hesitation, her eyes scanning the glowing blue arcs. Too chaotic for a direct pass, her thoughts brushed Endymion's. Instead of navigating the living current of jellyfish, she found a narrow crevice in the coral wall, a space barely wide enough for her graceful form. She compressed her body, flowing through the tight opening with an almost liquid ease, bypassing the entire hazard. A small, silent smile played on Endymion’s lips. Clever.

The final leg of the race was a sprint to the finish line, a shimmering arch of light in the distance. The Maquaid, having cleared the Jelly Net with unparalleled grace, was already a length ahead, her powerful tail propelling her with relentless efficiency. Serenity, emerging from the crevice, surged forward, her strokes a blur of silent power, closing the gap. Endymion, his hydro-thrusters roaring, pushed his speed to the absolute limit, feeling the deep burn in his quads as he tried to match Serenity’s effortless acceleration. The Forgle, a powerhouse of muscle, was close behind, their powerful kicks churning the water into a frothy wake.

The crowd’s roar intensified, a wave of sound that even underwater felt palpable. The Maquaid, a silver arrow, touched the shimmering finish line first, her triumph silent but undeniable. A collective cheer erupted, followed by gasps as Serenity, with one last breathtaking surge, crossed mere milliseconds later, her body radiating an ethereal glow. Endymion, pushing himself to the absolute brink, felt the jolt of the finish line a hairsbreadth behind her. The Forgle, exhausted but determined, thundered across in fourth.

The race concluded, the water around the finish line swirled with the lingering energy of the competitors. Endymion, his chest heaving, his muscles screaming, drifted towards Serenity. Her eyes, still shining with the exhilaration of the race, met his. There was a shared understanding, a silent acknowledgment of the effort, the skill, and the thrill of the competition.

As they floated there, the vibrant energy of the arena still humming around them, their gloved fingers brushed. It was a fleeting, almost accidental touch, yet a spark seemed to pass between them, a silent current in the bustling water. Meet me at the waterfall again later today? Endymion’s telepathic invitation was soft, a gentle ripple in the quiet space between them. Serenity’s unseen eyes crinkled at the corners, before a soft nod, a silent affirmation. The promise, though unspoken, hung tranquil in the water between them.

---

Endymion couldn't shake the nagging feeling that something was amiss. Serenity had been unusually distant all day—distracted, quiet—even during the adrenaline-fueled chaos of the tournament. Her movements, as always, were a symphony of grace, but beneath her smile, he sensed a subtle heaviness, an unspoken sorrow that echoed in her subdued laughter. It lingered with him, an unsettling note in his otherwise triumphant day.

Now, he stood by the waterfall, the same cascade where they had met under the moonlight just last night. The rhythmic roar of the rushing water filled the clearing, a soothing balm, but his heart remained a knot of unease. His eyes scanned the mist-shrouded path, searching for her familiar silhouette.

Then he saw her.

Serenity emerged from the trees, her steps slow, almost hesitant, as if the weight of her thoughts pressed down upon her. The mossy earth muffled her approach, and her pearlescent tresses caught the sunlight, gleaming like strands of captured starlight. With each step, the sound of the waterfall grew louder, the air cool and heavy with mist, clinging to her skin like a second layer. She reached the clearing and found Endymion exactly where she had hoped—by the smooth stone outcropping near the falls, where the sunlight broke through the canopy in golden shafts.

As she drew near, a flicker of emotion crossed her face—recognition, wonder, and something profoundly deeper. A memory. It struck her with the force of a tidal wave: a scene not from last night, but from a time long forgotten. A different meeting by this very waterfall, under a different sun, in a life that now felt like a dream. She saw Endymion standing just as he did now—back straight, eyes filled with an aching longing—and then, with a jolt that resonated through her very being, she realized he was seeing it too.

The sun danced through the canopy above, casting shimmering light on the lush forest floor as Serenity and Endymion made their way towards the heart of the woods. The air was thick with moisture and the scent of earth, but beneath that, there was something else—a subtle, intoxicating aroma that seemed to call to them both.

As they pushed aside the final curtain of leaves, they stepped into a clearing where a stunning waterfall cascaded down moss-covered rocks, its water crystal clear and inviting. The mist created a fine spray that hung in the air, catching the sunlight and creating a rainbow that arched gracefully over the pool below. The scent here was stronger, more potent, and both Serenity and Endymion inhaled deeply, their eyes meeting in shared recognition.

"This place," Serenity whispered, her voice barely audible over the rush of water. "It's like a dream."

Endymion reached out, his fingers brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. "A dream I want to lose myself in," he replied, his voice low and husky.

Serenity's eyes fluttered closed at his touch, and when she opened them, there was a spark of desire in their depths. She took a step closer, her hands reaching up to tangle in his hair. "Endymion," she murmured, "kiss me."

He needed no further encouragement. His lips met hers in a passionate embrace, their tongues singing in sync, beautifully orchestrated in perfect harmony. The world around them faded away, leaving only the two of them and the sensory explosion of their kiss.

Endymion's hands roamed her body, tracing the curve of her waist, the small of her back, before pulling her tightly against him. Serenity could feel his desire, hard and insistent, pressing against her. She gasped into his mouth, her own need matching his.

With a growl, Endymion swept her up into his arms, carrying her to the edge of the pool. The water was cool and refreshing against their heated skin, but neither of them noticed, their focus solely on each other. He lowered her gently, her back arching as she lay beneath him, her eyes never leaving his.

His hands explored her body, tracing the lace of her bodice, the soft swell of her breasts. He leaned down, his lips following the path his hands had taken, tasting her, teasing her. Serenity's breath hitched, her body arching into his touch, begging for more.

Endymion obliged, his hands skilled and sure as he freed her from the confines of her clothing. The cool air hit her heated skin, but it was Endymion's touch that sent shivers down her spine, his lips that left a trail of fire in their wake.

Serenity's hands were just as eager, exploring the hard planes of his chest, the ridges of his abdomen. She could feel the power in his body, the restraint he held as he worshipped her with his touch. It was intoxicating, and she wanted more.

With a swift movement, Endymion positioned himself at her entrance, his eyes locked on hers as he slowly, deliberately, pushed into her. Serenity's eyes fluttered closed, a soft moan escaping her lips as he filled her, completed her.

Their lovemaking was slow and sensual, a dance so intricate, only the two of them knew the moves to. The waterfall provided a soothing backdrop, its rhythm matching their movements, its mist cooling their heated skin. They moved together, their bodies synchronized in unity, their breaths mingling, their hearts beating as one.

Endymion's movements became more urgent, his grip on her hips tightening as he drove into her, chasing his release. Serenity met him thrust for thrust, her own need building, her body coiling tight as a spring.

With a final, powerful thrust, Endymion sent them both tumbling over the edge, their cries of pleasure echoing through the clearing, mingling with the sound of the waterfall. They lay there, their bodies sated, their souls intertwined, the scent of their love and the waterfall surrounding them, binding them together, sealing their fate.

The shared vision washed over them like a crashing wave, tearing through the fabric of time and space. Her breath hitched, shallow and rapid, as her body recalled what her mind could barely grasp. The pull between them was almost unbearable—not just desire, but a desperate yearning to relive what once was. A silent, telepathic plea escaped her, Not now, not yet.

She clenched her fists, grounding herself against the overwhelming surge, forcing the memory to recede like mist in the morning sun. This was a test—not of passion, but of patience. Of trust. Of strength.

Endymion’s gaze locked onto hers, filled with profound concern. There was no judgment in his eyes, only empathy—and perhaps a silent question that mirrored her turmoil. He had felt her hesitation, her internal struggle, and now he reflected it. His fingers curled slightly at his sides, aching to reach out, to touch her, to offer reassurance, but he held still, respecting the invisible boundary she had erected.

"Serenity…" His voice was a gentle murmur, carrying the unspoken weight of everything he wanted to say but couldn’t. "Thank you for meeting me again. I—I’m sorry about last night. It didn’t go the way I planned. I never meant to be late."

She paused, then stepped closer, her fingers brushing against the folds of her flowing skirt. Her gaze dropped to the mossy earth before rising again, her voice hushed, as though the mist itself was listening intently. "It’s alright, Endymion. Truly. That time… it gave me space to think. About everything. About us."

She looked into his eyes—past them, into the profound truth they both carried—and he understood. Not everything needed to be spoken aloud. He took a tentative step closer, his eyes scanning hers, trying to read between her words, to decipher the complex emotions swirling within her.

"I understand," he murmured, his own voice barely a whisper. "I’ve felt it too. This pull between us… it’s powerful. It’s like it’s always been there, waiting to wake up."

She nodded slowly, her lips parting, then closing again as she searched for the right words. "That pull—it’s what frightened me. It wasn’t just love or longing. It felt like something darker had taken hold of me. Lust, pure and consuming. It clouded everything. I was losing myself in it." A shiver ran through her, a visible tremor in the cool air.

Endymion’s brow furrowed with concern, but he didn’t interrupt. He simply listened, his full attention hers.

"I don’t want something that only lives in fire and shadows," she continued, her voice gaining a quiet strength. "I want more. I want us to be seen—not just touched. I want to be understood, not devoured."

His breath caught in his throat, and when he spoke, it was with a careful reverence that matched the sacredness of the moment. "Serenity, I’ve longed for you, yes—but not only in the way that burns. I want to know the shape of your thoughts, the rhythm of your fears, the light you see when you dream. I want to sit beside you in silence and still feel connected, truly connected, to your soul."

She looked up, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears, a depth of emotion reflected in their liquid pools. "Then we have to do this right. No more letting desire drive us blindly. We need to speak, to listen. To build something stronger than mere heat."

"I will follow your pace," he said, stepping forward, his hand gently reaching for hers. His touch was warm, patient, and full of unspoken promise. "We’ll create something real, together. I’ll wait as long as it takes. I’ll stand beside you, even in silence, until you are ready to fully explore this twin flame that burns between us, when the tournament is over and we are free."

She squeezed his hand, grounding herself in the profound honesty of the moment, a silent pact sealing their intentions. "And I’ll be truthful with you—about what scares me, about what I hope for. We’ll grow through this… not be consumed by it."

He pulled her into an embrace, slowly, allowing her the space to choose the closeness. She folded into him willingly, and they held each other with the quiet desperation of two souls who had nearly lost their way, yet had found their compass in each other.

The mist curled around them, soft and cool, rising from the cascade behind like a veil lifted between two hearts. The roar of the waterfall was no longer loud, but a soothing hymn sung by nature itself—cleansing, renewing, and promising a future built on patience and understanding.

Chapter 7: Day 6

Legends of Eariter

Day 6

 

The meadow stretched wide beneath an endless sky, rolling hills rising and falling in gentle arcs, swaying with tall grasses and wildflowers. Endymion paused at the crest of one hill, letting his gaze sweep across the expanse. It was breathtaking—green and gold rippling in the wind, dotted with blossoms that turned their faces toward the sun as though they had never known shadow.

But the beauty was deceptive. He knew it the moment his boots pressed down and the ground shifted beneath him. What looked like soft earth sometimes gave way to hidden brambles, snaring at ankles with cruel precision. Patches of grass disguised sudden sinkholes, yawning open without warning, ready to swallow the careless whole. And scattered across the landscape, jagged crystalline growths rose like broken teeth, their edges gleaming too sharply to belong to any peaceful field.

As if that weren't enough, pylons jutted up from the soil in irregular intervals, their alien design throbbing with shifting light. Some hummed with low sonic pulses that muddled his sense of balance, turning a simple stride into a staggering lurch. Others snapped the air into violent gusts, nearly toppling him forward. And a few—his eyes caught the sparks crawling along their spines—discharged arcs of electricity, jagged veins of light that lashed out at the unwary.

The meadow was not a place of rest. It was a place that tested perception, patience, and resilience.

And somehow, it made him think of her.

The Grailld competitor. Serenity.

She belonged to this land—he knew it with a certainty he couldn't explain. Just as the meadow wore its loveliness like a mask, hiding thorns beneath its blossoms, she carried beauty that disarmed and distracted, only to reveal the sharpness beneath. He had felt it in the way she moved during the tournament, every step precise, every choice calculated. Her fierceness was not born from brute force, but from an intimate understanding of terrain, timing, and deception.

Endymion glanced across the meadow where she ran ahead in practice, a flash of motion against the hills. He was beginning to know her even better. He knew the rhythm of her stride, the way the land seemed to bend toward her, not against her. She belonged to the land, to the hidden snares and the sudden lashing storms, and because of that, she thrived where others faltered.

It unsettled him, how much sense she made to him. How seeing her move through this treacherous beauty explained something of herself—something he had not yet put words to. Fierce. Deceptive. Unyielding.

And yet, beautiful beyond measure.

For the first time, he wondered if the meadow wasn't simply her territory's trial, but a mirror of her soul.

This meadow was no pastoral idyll. It was a gauntlet, designed to test strength, agility, cunning, and nerve.

Practice ended and competitors readied themselves.

On the ridge, competitors waited in silence, a gentle hum of anticipation vibrating through the air. Each was encased head to toe in the tournament's required suits of seamless spandex, every feature hidden, voices sealed behind filters. No name, no identity—only movement and skill distinguished one from another.

Endymion stood with Serenity at his side, uncaring of the Elders' watchful eyes, their shoulders brushing as they adjusted their gear—biofiber boots for soil and stone, reinforced gloves for climbing, reactive wristbands humming faintly with stored power.

A tug, ancient and unyielding, tightened in his chest. A pulse echoed in hers.

Good luck today, he murmured, a whisper brushing Serenity's mind.

Oh, love. Thank you. But it's you who will need the luck. Her lips curved in a sly smirk as her fingers brushed his. A spark leapt between them, born of the energy ring, but it lingered too long, too warm, to be only that.

Endymion smirked back, though his heart tightened. She thought she could distract him from the game. Perhaps she already had.

From the corner of his vision, he felt the Selases watching. The guardians stood in their quiet strength, eyes like still pools that reflected more than they revealed. He wondered if they had noticed the slip of contact, the silent pulse that passed between him and Serenity. He suspected they had—for their gazes lingered a moment longer than necessary, heavy with an understanding he himself only half grasped.

He straightened, pretending not to notice, though the thought gnawed at him. If the Selases saw something, what did it mean? And why did it feel less like judgment… and more like recognition?

A Selas judge floated above on a crystalline hover-disc, its pale armor glimmering like moonlight on water. Their presence was a reminder: no cheating, no sabotage beyond what the course itself offered. Above the meadow, the Elders' watching eyes glimmered faintly, their influence felt more than seen.

The crowd roared from both nearby terraces and distant projection domes, their cheers cascading like thunder through the hills.

A low, resonant horn sounded across the hills, and the competitors surged forward.

The competitors surged forward.

Endymion and Serenity moved as one, weaving through the gauntlet with an ease that startled even him. Their steps mirrored each other, as though an unseen rhythm guided their every motion. He vaulted a bramble patch, boots flashing with light, while Serenity twisted midair beside him, landing just ahead with deceptive grace.

You're getting cocky, he teased across the tether of their minds.

Her lips curved into a grin that set his pulse racing. Only because you make it too easy to be.

Their banter slid as effortlessly as their movements, a dance of thought and motion sharper than any blade, softer than the meadow's breeze. Endymion felt it in his bones—that strange, ancient familiarity that hummed louder each time she smiled at him.

Above, the Selases stood motionless at the edge of the spectator platforms, their cloaked figures like carved stone. Yet their eyes tracked the pair with unblinking intensity. One leaned subtly toward another, unease flickering across an otherwise impassive face. Competitors were forbidden to speak, let alone entwine thoughts—but what they witnessed was no ordinary exchange.

"Are they bending the rules?" one Selas murmured, his voice tinged more with wonder than accusation.

Another shook her head faintly, gaze sharp yet softened by reverence. "No. Not bending. Remembering."

Far above, the Elders exchanged glances of their own. They saw what even the Selases could not: echoes of lives long past weaving through the meadow's very air. When Serenity's feet touched the earth, the grass seemed to bow. When Endymion moved beside her, the ground steadied.

Below, oblivious to the scrutiny, Endymion's smirk deepened. Whatever storm brewed above, whatever secrets haunted the past, right now he only saw her.

The meadow around them erupted into chaos. A Maquaid surged forward in a blur, fins slicing arcs through the grass. A Dreseat shoulder-checked a Claird into sparking brambles, earning a Selas glare but charging on with silent laughter.

The first true obstacle loomed: a river glittering unnaturally under the sun, its currents rippling with dangerous energy. Endymion launched himself across with hydro-thrusters. Serenity twisted midair to land beside him, her hand brushing his—

—a flash. Wind-swept grass, laughter tumbling through sunlight, another life where they had chased each other unguarded. The memory burned brief but hot, leaving a blush in its wake.

Endymion vaulted a crystalline outcrop, Serenity landing beside him with airy precision. Her hand grazed the same stone he had touched, and—

—another flash. A cliff, a climb, their bare hands clasping, his face clearer then, eyes alight with the same fierce longing that thundered in his chest now.

The vision broke. He staggered inwardly, pulse hammering. She stumbled too, catching herself, breath quick under her mask. She had seen it.

The course tightened, energy rings pulsing erratically. Serenity spun gracefully to avoid a flare; Endymion slipped through a narrow gap, their eyes meeting with sparks of playfulness veiled in concentration. His hand brushed her wrist, and warmth flooded her—another lifetime, balancing on a cliffside with him, their fingers nearly twined. She smiled, secret and soft, folding memory into the present.

The grasses ahead lashed violently as pylons flared. Endymion braced low, carving a path, while Serenity flowed through like water. Their shoulders brushed—

—moonlight, grass, her laughter at his whispered words, a shadow tearing the moment away.

She faltered. He steadied his stride to match hers without thought.

The chaos pressed in. Competitors collided, a Forgle smashing grasses aside, Clairds darting like living wind, another Dreseat scheming sabotage. Endymion leapt to a sparking pylon—Serenity caught his wrist, laughing as they twisted together. Another flash: a cliff, wind and surf, their laughter indistinguishable from the roar of the sea. His heart ached with recognition.

Through spikes and narrow corridors they wove, brushing shoulders in a silent, teasing game. A memory struck Serenity—hands clasped under moonlight, running through fields of forever. She blinked hard, pulse racing, but the smile lingered.

The ravine loomed, spanned by unstable platforms flickering in and out of existence. Blue static hissed below, hungry. Endymion didn't hesitate—his boots caught the first platform just as it began to vanish. Serenity leapt too, but her platform blinked away—he caught her wrist.

—another flash. A fall, centuries past. A cliff crumbling, her hand caught in his, fear and trust in her luminous eyes. His promise, unyielding.

Even when the vision shattered, he didn't release her until she steadied. Her nod was small but charged.

Together they leapt again. Again their hands brushed. Again, the tapestry of forgotten lives wove tighter.

The final hill rose, crowned by a platform glowing like a beacon, plasma bolts arcing across the slope. Endymion offered a hand—silent invitation. She took it, fingers twining. The memory surged: climbing another hill long ago, hands clasped, wind carrying their laughter into forever.

They smiled, breathless, as the past and present converged.

Side by side they sprinted. A bolt cracked between them—instinct drove their hands together, locking tight.

The last vision struck like lightning.

Fire. A battlefield. Their bodies torn apart by war, still reaching, still entwined even as darkness claimed them. His voice echoing through flame: We will find each other again.

The finish line blazed. They leapt—together, apart, then together again. Sparks leapt with them, flirtation and memory tangled into something undeniable.

The crowd erupted as they crossed nearly in unison, the line of light bursting into a thousand shards.

They landed, chests heaving, faces turned toward one another. No words. None needed. The storm of memory and touch said everything.

They had shared lifetimes. And this was not their last.

Above, the Selas judge floated lower, lenses glowing with an unreadable brilliance. For a fleeting moment, their head tilted as though recognizing more than the outcome of a race. Farther up the slope, three more Selases had gathered, their armor shining like fragments of the moon. They watched the pair too long, silence louder than the roar of the terraces. One leaned toward another, their exchange brief yet weighted: they had seen sparks like this before, lifetimes ago. And last time, it had ended in fire.

The audience knew none of it. They erupted in wild applause, voices tumbling like surf against the terraces, stamping feet in rhythm, chanting names they could not even know behind the masks. To them, it was spectacle—two near-colliding competitors pushing to the line together, a performance too close to call. To the Selases, it was not performance. It was prophecy stirring in the flesh.

High above, in the veiled gallery of the Elders, the cheers did not reach. Cloaked figures leaned forward, their shadows warping, curling back as though unwilling to brush the light. Where the Selases had watched with unease, the Elders measured with intent. Their gazes were older than the meadow, heavier than the silence between thunderclaps.

"They awaken," one said, the words like granite shifting.

"It was bound to happen," answered another, calm as tide.

"But not this soon."

"Too soon?" a third asked.

"Or just in time," came the reply, voice steeped in inevitability.

The words dissolved before mortal ears could catch them. Yet their eyes lingered, unblinking, upon the Grailld and the Snevain who stood together below. Within that gaze lay no applause—only the weight of consequence neither competitor yet fathomed.

The Selases began to withdraw, recording their impressions in silent codices, already planning the next step. Before the seventh dawn, there would be a conversation. A warning. Or a reckoning.

But for now, the meadow belonged to two.

Endymion and Serenity stood at its edge, the crowd's cheers muffled by the pounding in their own veins. Their masks hid faces, their silence hid truths, yet both felt the same aftershock—their palms still tingling where memory and flesh had overlapped, their hearts beating to a rhythm older than the tournament itself.

Endymion turned just enough for his voice to thread across the tether. You felt it too.

Serenity's lips curved beneath the mask. Hard not to when you keep pulling me into the past with you.

His smirk was audible, the kind that carried danger and promise in equal measure. Or maybe you're the one dragging me back.

Her laugh was soft, breathless, private amid the roar of thousands. Then perhaps we're guilty together.

They stood a heartbeat longer than necessary before moving on, as though reluctant to break the spell. Neither spoke aloud. Neither dared. Yet beneath their masks, behind their banter, they both knew:

This lifetime was only beginning.

---

The roar of the meadow still echoed in Endymion's ears as he stepped through the transport arch. The adrenaline of the race should have burned itself out by now, but it hadn't. Not with her scent of ozone and wildflowers still clinging to him, not with the pulse in his chest still hammering as though it belonged to two hearts instead of one.

Jadeite was waiting first. Arms crossed, blond hair falling rakishly over one eye, he arched a brow in mock solemnity.
"Well," Jadeite drawled, "if you wanted the entire galaxy to know you're smitten, you could've just sent up fireworks. Subtlety clearly isn't your strong suit."

Nephrite leaned against the wall, less amused, his dark eyes narrowed. "You were reckless. Every Elder was watching, and still you couldn't pull away. Do you understand what you risked?"

Kunzite stepped forward last. His silver gaze was calm, but beneath it ran a current that was anything but. "No, Nephrite. He understands perfectly. The question is whether he cares."

Endymion stripped off his gloves, jaw tight. "I don't need this from you three."

"Then what do you need?" Jadeite pushed, too quick, too sharp. "A reminder that the rules exist for a reason? Or should we skip straight to the part where the Elders drag you into the judgment chambers for fraternizing with your rival?"

"She's not—" Endymion caught himself. The word rival turned to ash on his tongue. His hand clenched, the glove crackling faintly with residual energy.

Nephrite's voice softened, though his disapproval did not. "You let her in, Endo. I saw it. We all did. The way you moved—like two parts of a single form. That wasn't training. That wasn't coincidence."

Kunzite tilted his head, eyes narrowing. "It was fate."

The word silenced the chamber. Even Jadeite's smirk faltered. Fate. It carried weight among them, heavier than law, heavier than blood.

Endymion looked away, but his chest betrayed him, tightening at the truth in it. "It wasn't planned," he muttered. "But when she touched me…" His breath shuddered. "It was like remembering a life I've never lived. A thousand lives, all at once."

Jadeite whistled low, though it held no mockery now. "That explains the look on your face. Like you'd seen a ghost you wanted to kiss."

Nephrite straightened. "You're playing with fire. If she is your twin flame—as Zoisite hints—then you're both walking the knife's edge of power and destruction. Do you even know what that means for the tournament? For us?"

Kunzite's eyes stayed on Endymion, steady as the moon. "It means what it has always meant in the old stories. Two souls bound beyond time. When one burns, so does the other. When one rises, so too the other. You cannot destroy such a bond. You can only deny it. And denial…" His voice dropped, somber, "…has always led to ruin."

For the first time, Endymion didn't argue. His silence was its own confession. The echo of Serenity's hand still lingered in his own, warm as flame, steady as a promise.

Jadeite gave a crooked grin, though it couldn't mask the worry behind it. "So. We're doomed, then?"

Endymion finally met his brothers' eyes, his own dark with certainty. "No. But if she falls, I fall. Don't you get it? In every lifetime, she tries to sacrifice herself—and when she does, I die with her. This time, we fight together. It's the only way either of us survives."

The weight of his words settled over them. No banter. No rebuke. Just the truth, heavy and inescapable.

Kunzite inclined his head slowly, as if recognizing something inevitable. Nephrite exhaled through his nose, resigned but not unfeeling. And Jadeite—restless, reckless Jadeite—only muttered, "Well, at least it won't be boring."

---

That night, long after the meadow trial had ended and the crowd's cheers had dissolved into memory, Endymion stood beneath the stars, restless and alight with a single, unyielding thought: Serenity. The brush of her fingers against his, the teasing spark in her grin, the echo of a life he had only begun to remember—all of it ignited something fierce within him. Sleep was impossible.

When the Elders came, they did not announce themselves. One moment the meadow's edge was empty; the next, four cloaked figures appeared in the silver glow of the moons, moving without sound, their presence bending the air like gravity. Endymion straightened, meeting them not with fear, but with calm defiance.

"You knew we would come," the first said, voice carrying like water over stone.

"I suspected," Endymion replied evenly, chest rising with quiet strength. "And yet I stand here anyway. Will that be a problem?"

The second Elder's gaze, deep as ancient night, swept over him. "You run beside the Grailld as if you have always known her."

Endymion let the silence stretch, letting the truth of that statement hang. "Because I have, in ways you cannot command me to remember—or to deny."

The third Elder's tone softened, almost pitying. "You do not yet understand. That is both your gift… and your danger."

Endymion's fists clenched—not with fear, but with unwavering resolve. "Then I will face it," he said, voice steady, carrying the weight of his choice. "Not because you say so, but because she is worth it. Every risk. Every consequence. I will not be swayed, nor will I hold back. Not for rules. Not for warnings. Not even for you."

The fourth Elder leaned forward, shadow stretching long across the grass. "No rule has been broken. Yet. But the Eldest Elders have seen what you have not. Every time your hands brush, every thought you send to hers—threads awaken that were meant to remain dormant."

Endymion's eyes narrowed, heat rising in his chest at the thought of Serenity. "Let them awaken," he said firmly. "I will not run from her. I will not hide from this. If the world itself bends to our bond, then let it bend. I will meet it. And I will meet her."

The first Elder's voice dropped, heavy with age and gravity. "You awaken each other. Too quickly. Too deeply."

"Then we will bear it together," Endymion replied, unwavering. "I will not let caution keep me from her."

A silence fell, thick and reverent. Then the Elders began to withdraw, dissolving into the night like mist. The last words they left behind were not a threat, nor a warning, but a reminder of the path Endymion had chosen:

"Ask yourself, Snevain—will you run from what awakens, or will you claim it? Either way, the choice will not remain yours alone."

Endymion's gaze followed them until they vanished. The wind stirred the grass, whispering around him, but his heart thundered with certainty. Let the Elders watch. Let the meadow remember. He would claim what was his—and hers—come what may.