[IC] When Realms Collide {AkiBlue & PopeAlessandros}

[AkiBlue]

So. The first thing, and so far the main thing Enasi had to note: Everything was dangerous. It tried to attack not only him, but the ones protecting him as well. These things were ruthless. . . Though he couldn't help but admire how easily Seishu managed to deflect the attacks as if it were nothing. It didn't even seem like he was injured. But, that was more than likely because of how much better he felt in his realm. More than once, something slithered by Enasi's feet, planning to trip or grab his ankles, but they ended up being cast away by one of the siblings. "Thank you." He murmured, trying to not to be so repetitive with his thanks.

Lan and Ran gave raised eyebrows the first few times he thanked them, but they soon realized it was just one of those 'quirks' of being a dream. They didn't need the thanks, but they didn't stop the guardian from speaking. When they took closer positions, and Seishu told him to hold his cape, Enasi gave a nervous look, but complied. He held tight to the fabric and focused on trying to be as unnoticed as possible, but even he could only do so much before practically getting rid of his energy all together. Enasi listened carefully to Seishu and nodded in understanding. "Alright then." He whispered as he walked behind Seishu. Fortunately, they all made it safely without much of a problem. Despite the safety, he still felt much safer with Seishu holding on to him.

Just as Seishu could sense the minions' camp, Enasi could feel the rise of negative energy. He held on to his counterpart a little tighter, but remained calm. His barrier was doing him justice. That, along with the ones that were protecting him were doing such a fantastic job at it. If only he could thank them properly. Suddenly, he felt himself being pulled causing an almost inaudible yelp of surprise. This caused an alarm between the group, but it immediately calmed when they saw things were okay. Enasi was going to apologize, but the group was already off and he assumed Seishu might have wanted him quiet. While they waited, Enasi leaned his head against Seishu, listening to the speech.

He couldn't help but smile towards how proud and excited they all were. It reminded him of how happy his own denizens were when they saw him. 'We're not that different, you and I. . .' Kaila's pride and love towards his guardian was a lot like Harper's, though maybe even more so considering he was willing to dress the part. Hearing that the next part of Kaila's was all about him, Enasi hid his face against Seishu for a brief moment before looking up when he felt Seishu start to move. 'I don't know about this one Seishu. . . I don't think I'm ready to-' His thoughts were interrupted when he was given a kiss on the cheek. 'Ah, too late.' As Seishu went to go reunite with his family, Enasi was pulled off to the side with Kaila's team.

They surrounded him and Enasi took refuge on a tree stump - after asking if he could. Slightly teasing, Kaila spoke, "Not everything plans to kill you sir. . . Just a large majority." He chuckled when he noticed Enasi's blush of embarrassment as he sat down. There were some muffled laughs amongst the team and Enasi only sighed and smiled, setting his head in his hands to watch Seishu. Every so often, Enasi would flinch a little instinctively prepared to say "Be careful! He's injured still!" Yet not once did Seishu waiver, so he tried to keep his calm. It was rather nice to see how loving his denizens were. It was nice in its own special way. Enasi patiently waited for his counterpart, being in no rush to go anywhere besides his home. But that could wait for Seishu's sake.

As he waited quietly, he laughed gently causing the team to look at him curiously. "Even with all the biting and attacking it's still rather cute. And Seishu is so happy." His smile was contagious enough for the whole team to have smiles on their faces. Enasi really was an odd one. How else were they supposed to show their love and affection towards one another? This time, no one responded though. Instead, they let Enasi marvel on. His view was soon interrupted by something that stalked over, growling low. Enasi immediately tensed but stayed still. In the dark, his eyes seemed to glow, especially now with them widening in surprise. The team didn't plan on stopping their comrades from taking peeks at the Dream Guardian, but any potential threat was sent away with a hard glare that would intimidate them.

The creature that stalked forward was a mass of black fur. The only distinctive feature that it had about its body was its four legs . As it faced Enasi, the guardian wondered where the creature's face was. . . If it even had one. His curiosity towards it made him stare back at the creature, narrowing his eyes to at least find eyes. . . Instead of eyes, he was met with at least three rows of sharp glowing teeth as the creature opened its mouth. "W-Whoa. . . Lot of teeth." Tyar intervened this time, smacking the creature on the top of the head. It winced and growled, only to cower towards Tyar's expression. The dark mass of fur took to examining Enasi instead, occasionally inching its way closer to sniff the guardian. Though some of its efforts were futile when either of the team pushed it away when it got too close. The guardian sighed as it walked off, only to realize the other various eyes that weren't trampling Seishu, were staring at him.

[PopeAlessandros]

Tiski watches from afar, letting loose the little ones to attack their guardian lovingly. The jumble of noise and movement keeps her from moving closer to her guardian, despite her near overwhelming need to at least lay a hand on him. However after a long moment she notices a little nightmare trying to get a better look at the one being guarded by her team and with a wickedly happy smile she saunters over. 'We'll see if you're worth the care Master Seishu seems to have for you. I know if Kaila isn't fighting it then there is something to it, but I want my own look at the cause for all the fuss' The eyes watching the guardian shift for a moment on to the girl as she walks up to Enasi, and a few smirk, wondering what she'll do.

None of them dare lay a hand on the guardian, knowing that the team will likely not respond well to the advance given how they are trying to keep the weak little puppy at bay, but one of their own? Who knows, she may get somewhere. Out of the corner of his eye Seishu notices her stalking closer to Enasi and he begins the arduous process of disentangling himself from the little ones. He can tell she's up to something by her very walk. Once in close enough for the pup to notice her she growls at it and it skitters away. Without hesitation she walks right up to Enasi, and bending over she places one hand on either of his knees and looks him right in the eye. The rest of the team do not respond beyond rolling their eyes, Kaila not even doing that as he notices their guardian standing up and turning their way.

Not caring how she's invading his space, and ignoring how such proximity is making her a little dizzy, she leans in close and scrutinizes him silently for several long seconds before letting out a little “Harrumph” and looking down at his lap. The look on her face seems to imply that she can see right through his clothing. Before she can say anything however Seishu seizes her around the middle and lifts her clear off her feet. She lets out a yelp, cringing as she looks over her shoulder to see the stern look on Seishu's face. Raising an eyebrow he gives her an evil grin before spinning hard on the spot and whipping her into the crowd like a champion hurler. She shrieks and a ripple of laughter goes around the camp at the sight of he flying through the air.

Without being told to Tyar flies after he and catches her before the crowd has the chance to just let her drop, or catch her depending on their mood in that instant. Seishu joins in the laugh even as she pouts and races back to give him a hug. After giving her a firm squeeze he pulls her head back firmly by her hair and says quite seriously, “Only I get to touch and see him like that, got it? Mine.” She nods as he lets her hair go, pouting a little as she turns off her x-ray vision. Looking back at Enasi she smiles sweetly, a knowing gleam in her eye. Swatting at her Seishu lets out a sigh and holds out a hand to Enasi. Pulling the smaller male to his feet he pulls Enasi flush against him, his smile more than a little suggestive as both arms settle behind Enasi's waist to keep him from moving away.

The love pouring on to him from his underling mixed with the negative energy of his realm is proving to be quite stimulating to the Nightmare Guardian. However he contents himself with a soft kiss before letting go with one hand and slipping off to the side to walk beside his other half. With their guardian now at the red head's side Kaila and his team relax their guard and follow the two around camp in a more leisurely fashion. The pup returns and standing on it's hind legs presses it's front paws to Seishu's chest before giving his face a long lick. Seishu laughs and gives him a scratch before swatting him away. Many more nightmares and minions come over to greet Seishu as they walk, but on the whole the camp goes back to it's normal activities.

Having Seishu around makes them much happier in their tasks, and his approving smile at them is enough to send them into a state of bliss after it being absent for so long. Seishu holds tight to Enasi, and a part of him hopes he's not completely miserable. Seishu decides to walk around the boarder of the encampment first before going to greet the protector in the water, wanting to give every one in camp the chance to come to him. The little ones follow at their heels, one every so often darting in to see how close they can get to Enasi before the dizziness makes them drop. Seishu notices their antics and despite the vague danger to their health, the competition itself is healthy so he leaves them be.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi watched as the nightmare minions eyed him from a distance, some even getting closer. The guardian gave a small, nervous wave towards them, unsure of what to say. Then again, they didn't look like they wanted to really converse. They all seemed to back away as a female minion walked up. The guardian sat up, more surprised that someone was casually approaching him. As she approached, that casual became a little more suspicious to Enasi. There was a look in her eyes that reminded her too much of Seishu's antics. This thought caused him to subconsciously scoot back, but he could only go so far on a tree stump. When she decided to rest her hands on him and stare, Enasi stared right back in confusion. His eyes glowed a little as he waited for something to happen.

"You're. . . Kind of close. That's not very safe. . ." But for some reason, this one only leaned forward. Whatever she planned to do, he decided to just brace himself for it. No one had jumped to his aid, so she probably wouldn't do something. . .too bad. Unexpectedly, her eyes went down to his lap and he could only tilt his head in confusion. . . A confusion that only lasted for a few seconds. As he pulled away from her, Seishu grabbed her as well. He flared up into a different color like he normally did. "W-Why?! . . ." But the minion was already being tossed off to the crowd. And to think he was getting better at not blushing so much. That. That just wasn't fair. "A little warning next time would be nice." He murmured to no one in particular. And for some reason, maybe it was because he was around Seishu so much, but he added, "Or at least buy me dinner first. . ." The loud whispers of the smaller minions made him cough lightly, that and Tiski's smile.

"He changes colors. . .?"

"Look at how red he is!"

"Why is he doing that anyway?"

He was pulled to his feet and before they started moving, he received a kiss which he gave back in return. He followed Seishu around, moving a little every so often as one of his minions come closer to greet Seishu. His efforts to give them space weren't very well, considering Seishu held tight to him. Instead, the two took a stroll around the camp. Enasi heard little thumps behind him and he turned to see small minions following after them. He paid no mind to them until one of those little minions managed to grab and tug his pants leg. Unexpectedly, Enasi stumbled but caught on to Seishu before he could fall.

"Ha! I did it, I did it!" One particular minion bounced around happily in victory. He stuck his tongue out at the others happily.

[PopeAlessandros]

The minions continue making not so quiet comments about Enasi as they go along, and for the most part Seishu ignores them. However a few catch his attention in a bad way and he's forced to give those who spoke them a hard look. They stop at one point to let a nightmare snake about the size of a bus slither by and Seishu gives her giant head a rough pat as she leans in, her long tongue sniffing at the red head. Seishu purrs softy in his throat, the pleasant nature of it all added to the fact that Enasi kissed him back in public without any qualms making him one happy guardian. However when Enasi stumbles and he looks back at the children he can not help but let out a long exasperated sigh.

The one who grabbed Enasi's pant leg suddenly falls to his knees and Seishu prompts Enasi to stay put before running over to him. Quickly siphoning off the stray positive energy he motion for the rest of the kids to come over so he can talk to them. “No no little ones. Charge but do not touch. He doesn't want to hurt you, but you are not strong enough to touch such a powerful sparkler, got it? You'll make yourselves sick.” The kids nod, a few scuffing the ground with a foot in a ploy to look innocent. Seishu lets out a playful little growl, snapping his fangs at them and with squeals they run away to hide behind Lan and Ran. Kaila rolls his eyes, a small wave of nerves coming from him as Seishu returns to Enasi's side and they continue their loop.

The little ones continue to hover around the guardians like flies around a dead body but now they make sure to not touch Enasi. They begin a new round making up a new set of rules and playing happily despite the danger the Dream Guardian represents. As Kaila's nerves grow Seishu becomes more and more aware of them until at last he stops and turns to the minion. Kaila swallows, his usual mask in place as he waits to be addressed. Seishu narrows his eyes ever so slightly, glancing around at the rest of his team. However they each look away when their master looks in their direction leaving Kaila the only one willing to keep eye contact.

Filo and Feena, who had been fluttering overhead, drift down to heard the children away without being asked and the rest of the encampment shift away quietly to give them some space. Nightmares and minions have what could be considered a talent for recognizing when another needs space, and never is that more obvious than it is now. There is a long moment of silence until at last Seishu asks softly. “What's wrong Vio?”

At the sound of his nickname Kaila's mask cracks and for an instant that deep sorrow underneath flashes across his features. He tries to cover it quickly but in an instant Seishu has released Enasi, the rest of the team moving in to compensate, and the guardian is at his second's side. Kaila's eyes fall closed as Seishu reaches out, grasping his shoulders gently. Pulling Kaila in close he whispers softly, nonsense mostly, a bunch of random words and phrases he uses to calm his underlings when they are children. Eventually Kaila calms enough to begin speaking softly, his team closing their eyes in unison. “It's Jentou, my brother.” he whispers, his voice thick with emotion.

Seishu's gaze sharpens and he has to resist the urge to cast out his energy to find the minion. Jentou, unlike Kaila, had been ready to accept Seishu as the new guardian without question. Though most of the time such familial relations have no meaning, but in rare cases siblings will feel a great bond with one another. Like Lan and Ran, Kaila and Jentou were always very close despite the fact that they never agreed on anything. Their rivalry was legendary, setting the stage for many of the main competitions in the realm, but always they would come out of it arm-in-arm with a smile at the ready. Slipping his hands along Kaila's back Seishu tries to sooth him further, waiting patiently before asking him to continue.

With a shuddering breath the minion manages to go on. “H-he joined Gin, I don't know when, and back some days ago, he was found doing. . . .terrible things. . . .Such horrible things to an innocent nightmare.” Kaila flinched a whine escaping him as Seishu involuntarily tightens his grip on him, the guardian's hands taking fistfuls of Kaila's cape in hand. Seishu calms himself quickly, dropping a few soft sounds to help Kaila relax as well.

“What happened Kaila, what did you do?” Though his tone is soft it is easy to recognize the anger boiling behind his words. Kaila buries his face in his guardian's chest but rather than replying he points towards the center of camp, towards the swamp, and Myralyn's resting place. Seishu follows the line of his arm, past Enasi and into the distance. Silently he slips a hand beneath Kaila's chin and lifts it. Once the minion's face it turned up Seishu lays a single, sweet kiss on the smaller male's lips before letting him go and heading towards the center of camp. Kaila and his team fall in tight formation around Enasi, urging him forward to follow behind their own guardian who seems very intent, his eyes unseeing as he walks.

Nightmare and minion alike fall away from before the storm that is Seishu in a rage. Each one looks down as he passes, glancing at Kaila and his team once he is past the same question in their eyes. However, they do not reply, instead staying steady and keeping their eyes fixed on a point just behind Seishu's heels. The enraged guardian walks out on to the thin jut of land and calls out, “Myralyn! Send him up!” The nightmare contemplates being offended at not being greeted first, but decides that Seishu deserves his patience. As Seishu stands firm, waiting for the nightmare to comply, the camp seems to fall under a hush, waiting to see what's about to happen.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi looked back to see the kid fall to his knees. He rubbed the back of his head. Even though he knew he wasn't at fault, he still felt guilty for hurting the dangerous fanged babies. Seishu told them not to go trying to kill themselves and thankfully they decided to listen this time. Of course, it doesn't take them long to start finding some other way to play, using the guardian as their way to test their strengths. Enasi didn't mind, just as long as they weren't hurting themselves.

Even though he wasn't in his element, he could still feel the sudden shift in the mood. A heavy tension loomed for a moment, and then everyone started to step back. Two familiar fliers herded the children off like cattle. Both Seishu and Enasi turned to face the minion behind them, but soon enough he was surrounded by the siblings and Tyar. His hands clasped together and pressed against his chest as he watched. Kaila gave the impression that he had been fine. . . He speculated how long the minion had been staying strong. By the looks of it, clearly he had been holding off for some time.

"Poor Kaila. . ." Enasi muttered with an earnest look. Lan and Ran gazed over at the Guardian they had to protect. The male never ceasing to surprise them. There was a genuine hurt in his voice for a nightmare minion. Undeterred by the situation having little to do with him, the Dream Guardian was still worried about another here. Lan and Ran gave each other a similar look, knowing what the other was thinking. And with a nod, they watch what's going on before them. In the time between Seishu's growing anger and the team gently nudging him forward, Enasi watched in one place. He didn't want to get closer to Seishu while he was in such a state, however that did not appear to matter because he was following behind Seishu anyway.

His counterpart called for a nightmare that by the looks of it, resided in the swampy water. When the team stopped, Enasi rested a hand on Kaila's shoulder. When he had his attention, he gave a reassuring look to try and help. It didn't work all that well, but Kaila appreciated the sentiment so he nodded his thanks.

It was silent for a moment. For a moment, Enasi even wondered if the nightmare was going to come out. Unanticipated, the nightmare- larger than he expected- emerged from the water. The guardian wasn't expecting to actually feel the wave of negative energy as the water parted and the stray moss slid off the creature. He cringed, causing Lan and Ran to turn quickly to aid him if he needed it. The guardian held his hand up as he bent forward for a moment. "I'm. . . I'm fine." He heaved a sigh, fixing up his barrier and standing up straight again. The team eyed him, not satisfied with his reassurance until he managed to stand straight up again. Even then they occasionally gave him brief looks to make sure he wasn't lying about his health.

The amount of energy the creature had instantly reminded the Dream Guardian of TB. It must have been one of those ancient creatures that had lived in the Nightmare Realm for millennia with the guardians. He continued to watch as the calm swamp rippled by the sudden movement. Where Seishu stood, it didn't waiver once so it had to have been pretty sturdy. Enasi watched, wondering what would happen next. He also wondered what happened to Jentou. . .

[PopeAlessandros]

Seishu stands firm as the large beast rises. It's slick black amphibian skin spotted with faint flecks of gold and large purple blotches catches the starlight just so to make him look quite menacing. However Seishu does not notice this. Instead, as the beast rises, his eyes lock on to the clear sack clutched by many little legs against the nightmare's stomach containing the minion he's after. The minion seems to be suspended in some sort of liquid within the casing, most of his face obscured by the long main of golden hair. Kaila and Jentou were twins, the only difference being their hair and eye color. While Kaila has violet hair and gold eyes, Jentou is just the opposite with golden hair, and though they can not be seen right now, violet eyes.

Seishu can feel his energy crackling and with a little twist of his wrist he signals for Kaila and the others to pull Enasi back. 'I would rather he never have to see what I am about to do to the boy, but it can not be helped. I can not let him out of sight' Myralyn swims forward and gingerly settles the sack on the tip of the floating sliver of land. No longer being held up in a standing position Jentou collapses on to the ground, the sack bursting open to leave him exposed to the world. Seishu's eyes remain on the boy as the effects of Myralyn's venom wears off. The nightmare itself slips back into the water, wanting no part of what it knows is coming.

It does not take long for the minion to take his first breath, his body twitching and convulsing slightly as it recovers. Seishu waits, silent, and still. 'Jentou has always been the exact opposite of his brother. It's almost like when they were growing all things that grew stronger in one grew weaker in the other. He accepted me as soon as I appeared, that light smile and almost dazed expression, while Kaila tried to make me work for it every step of the way' His eyes narrow slightly, realizing that what he's about to do will work as long as he does it right, and only if Kaila keeps an eye on him. 'Kaila's always been on the front line of everything, trying to keep an eye on everything and taking care of the rest of the realm, almost like I do. Jentou however has never seemed to bond with anyone other than Kaila. He agreed to serve me without a thought, but that does not mean he was close. Serving me was all that mattered at the beginning, and after that he seemed to want whatever Kaila did, so I thought things were fine'

Lavender eyes open slowly, blurry at first, but coming in clearer with every passing second. For a brief moment as it sees the boots before him the minion believes them to belong to his brother. After all, who else would be here at his waking? However, as more and more of his senses return to him ans he tries to push himself at least into a seated position he is suddenly struck by the energy coming off of the figure before him, and freezes. His eyes go wide and still only half way up his eyes slowly climb up Seishu's body until at last he locks gazes with the guardian. A quake visibly rocks through his body and with shaky efficiency Jentou climbs to his feet surprisingly fast. Unsteady and still quite weak he looks past Seishu, spotting his brother, his eyes begging for help.

However, Kaila looks away, unable to watch his brother's pain. When at last his eyes fall back on to Seishu, his pain from his brother's refusal to look at him doing nothing to deter Seishu. Without moving a muscle a bolt flies out from Seishu and like chain lightning streaking across the sky, the black energy envelopes Jentou, dancing around his body and lifting him off the ground by a foot. His entire body seizes and his head snaps back. Every muscle is taunt, every breath agony. The screams that issue from the minion is enough to cut the most hardened heart in two. Seishu knows this will likely crush a part of his love standing not a hundred paces behind, but it must be done.

This is the highest form of punishment in the nightmare realm. Only the most grievous breach will bring this punishment on, and the murder of a fellow nightmare denizen definitely qualifies. Seishu remains still through the whole thing, his eyes watching the disciplining, hearing, and feeling the pain. Never is he in more pain than when he has to do this, and in truth, this is only the second time he's ever had to do it, the first being when a nightmare's negligence lead to the death of a little one. While the pain laces through his system Seishu slips inside Jentou's mind, finding what he did, and showing it to him over and over again while adding his own words to the minion's thoughts.

'You did this Jentou. You killed one of your own. You took a life for no reason. Your mind has slipped, and your drive has shifted. You have hurt your brother, the one you hold dearest, and you have crushed a part of yourself that you can never get back. You have done the unforgivable. He loves you still, and that pains him. You do not deserve what he has given you, and you will never be allowed it again' At those words his scream redoubles and at last he breaks. In a way, it is almost as if his eyes are opened to the fact, and his pain goes beyond the physical agony that Seishu is inflicting upon him. The thought of Kaila being taken from him, of losing his brother's love is the final straw and like a computer being reprogrammed a new Jentou is born.

As tears begin to flow down his cheeks, those gathered that are watching seem to let out a sigh. Kaila, who had crosses his arms over his chest, his head down and eyes squeezed shut as if doing so would block out everything, upon hearing the change looks up. His eyes lightening ever so slightly and a single tear finds it's way out and his lips turn up into a very slight smile. The rest of the team seems to relax, light smiles going around through each of them. Almost unintelligible among the screams Jentou calls for Seishu to stop and like switching a light off the energy vanishes back into the guardian's body. Smoothly Seishu steps forward and catches the minion in his arms. Slipping his arms around Jentou's waist he holds the minion close, leaning his head against the boy's shoulder.

As soon as he's sure Jentou can hear him he begins speaking so that only he can hear him. “You are born again Jentou. Do not waste this new life. I know your concerns, I feel your fear, and I can understand your reasoning. You will do anything to keep your brother safe, even if it means betraying his beliefs. You follow whoever is the strongest, and while I may be wounded, I am still the guardian of this realm. Your life belongs to me, and no one else.” As he speaks Jentou slowly gains his feet, his hands sliding up slowly to take a hold of Seishu's shoulders. “Kaila loves you. He is your kin, and he has never let you down. Even gone from my presence, he obeyed my will, and his own heart. You could have died, justly, for what you did, but instead he left you to me.”

Seishu shifts so that Jentou's head tilts back. The position allows the guardian to look into his minion's eyes. “Trust in that faith he has in me. Believe in him, and when your heart wavers, look to his. He will never steer you wrong.” Leaning in Seishu gives Jentou a rather warm kiss before pulling back and whispering, “You love him, as I have never seen in siblings either here or in any other realm. Love him, and learn from him.” Jentou looks up at his guardian with new eyes. Unable to use his voice after all the screaming he simply nods, pushing himself up just high enough to press a kiss to Seishu's jaw before shifting backwards ever so slightly. Looking over his shoulder Seishu motions Kaila forward, and without hesitation his second is at his brother's side, taking him gently from the guardian.

His clothing had been dissolved by the solution in the sack and with deft fingers Kaila removes his cape, wrapping it around his brother's shoulders in one smooth motion before walking with him back towards land. Seishu remains facing away from his counterpart, instead kneeling down and touching the water, calling Myralyn to the surface quietly. Only coming up high enough to be addressed, the massive head just breaching the surface, the nightmare looks up with it's small beady eyes at Seishu and waits silently. Seishu smiles and reaches out, touching him ever so gently on the broad snout. “Hello Myralyn my friend. I am sorry for my rudeness, but it needed to be dealt with while I had the resolve.”

All around the camp goes back to normal and the team moves in closer to Enasi. Now that Kaila is off with his brother they are a man down. Myralyn's eyes look past Seishu at the other guardian and in a completely serious voice it says, “Well, with the treat you brought me, I can forgive you Master Seishu.” The guardian chuckles and bats the nightmare's nose. The amphibian snorts, spraying Seishu and wetting his already damp clothes. He laughs, though it is free from mirth, and with a sigh sets his hand on Myralyn's nose again.

“I don't know what all this has done to him. I have seen his realm and I know his ways. Something like this. . .” The nightmare shakes his head slightly.

“If you have accepted him and his ways, and he refuses to accept you and yours, then you know there is no way that this is the right thing.” Myralyn's words hit home and with a sigh Seishu nods slightly. Patting Myralyn on the nose Seishu stands and silently the nightmare slips back down beneath the surface.

Knowing the beast can hear him just fine he whispers, “Thank you for taking care of the little ones my friend.” then with eyes downcast he turns on his heel and heads back towards the team. Rather than taking up his place at Enasi's side he instead motions for them to follow as he continues his inspection of the camp. The team look to one another, very confused, but they do as bidden and follow in close around Enasi. They know that Seishu did what had to be done, and the idea that him acting naturally deterring him from the side of the one he loves feels very upsetting. In truth, if he had not spent as much time in the dream realm, Seishu would not think twice about Enasi passing what he'd just done off as a natural part of the nightmare realm, but after all the sweet, kind, and over all gentle nature of the dream realm, he can not even imagine the horror Enasi must be feeling. In truth, Seishu is suffering, the breaking something he prayed he'd never have to do again after the first time. Seeing his minion in pain, and more over being the one causing the agony, his heart is tearing in his chest. But for his underlings, he stays strong, and passes among them to raise their spirits best he can.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi watched the chain of events with skepticism and caution. It only got more and more serious when Seishu told the team to push him back. The guardian complied, not wanting to get hurt- or hurt anyone else. His barrier had been tampered unexpectedly with all of the negative energy, so he quickly fixed that before it became a problem. Upon witnessing the large nightmare minion known as Myralyn, he also noticed the other he was carrying. It must've been Jentou. The minion looked dreadful. Worry settled, wondering what was going to happen- or what was happening. It was enough to make everyone tense and move away in fear, so it had to be something bad, even in a nightmare's perspective. The answer Enasi was given was rather sudden. It made his eyes widen and then he cringed. The poor minion was in pain, and even more pain because his guardian caused it. The shock was too much to bear for the Dream Guardian.

He couldn't imagine having to do such a thing to his minions. Putting them in cells was hard enough. Knowing that they had deliberately disobeyed him was enough to break his heart. This form of punishment forced Enasi to look on in horror and then then turn away completely, covering his face. Tears never fell, but there were times that it came close. Those screams couldn't simply be ignored. . . The team, save for Kaila, turned their attention to the guardian they were protecting. They were somewhat grateful to have something to focus on. This was hard for them to watch as well. "Are you alright?" Lan whispered as he leaned a little closer.

"Do you need us to move you back farther?" Ran added in his own whisper. This scene hurt the siblings in such away that it made them closer as a team, and as a family. Neither could handle seeing the other in such pain, and they would make sure it never happened. They knew how to keep each other in line, and even so, both were completely devoted to Seishu. Even as Enasi shook his head towards their help, they stared intently. He didn't appear to be okay, so they weren't taking chances. Tyar reached forward, gently pulling Enasi's sleeve so they were a few more steps back from the situation. It was the closest 'she' had come in contact with the guardian. It was still a little unsettling, but Tyar had followed him around enough to be okay. Heaving a sigh, the Dream Guardian moved his hands to hug his sides and glanced back at the situation behind him.

The screams died down. Minions began to relax. Seishu's rage even settled. Enasi rested a hand on his heart and sighed again. There was not a thing he could say to express his horror and how awful it was. He was just glad it was all over and he could relax. His empathy was going to kill him one day. As Kaila rushed to his brother's aid, the team shifted so Enasi was still protected. He watched as everyone returned to their normal activities. Without hesitation, even the children went back to playing. His eyes followed the rippling water again, only to catch a pair of eyes on him. He immediately looked away and rubbed the back of his head. He didn't know why the large creature was staring at him, but for some reason he didn't want to find out. It only further reminded him how out of place he felt.

Seishu walked back to the team. Enasi's gaze casted off to the side for a moment, only for him to look up in mild surprise that he didn't stand next to him. Enasi could tell by how heavy the air was. . . And when Seishu didn't return to his side, Enasi knew he felt awful. Whether it was his sadness for having to do such a thing, or whether it was sadness for having to display it- whatever it was made him uncomfortable around the Dream Guardian. As they walked in silence, it started to get uncomfortable for him. . . Not in the sense that he wasn't safe, but in the sense that his counterpart was hurting. He couldn't just sit by and let him feel such pain. That was something unbearable. Enasi looked at Lan and Ran on either side of him, one being a little farther up in order to protect his front as well. They could sense their distraught guardian's sadness. Of course they could. But they could do no more than hope for the best. . .

Almost impulsively, Enasi broke away from the team, causing them to tense up. It wasn't safe for him to do something so suddenly. The nightmares around them paused, watching to see what the guardian would do. Enasi ignores the soft attempt to stop him along with the narrowed eyed stares he was given. The Dream Guardian broke away from the team and ran up to Seishu who was a few paces ahead of them. Without warning, he wrapped his arms around his counterpart from behind. His head rested on Seishu's shoulder. For a moment, he didn't know what to say. So he let there be silence. And as if the minions around them could feel it as well, they all got quieter. Some decided to continue on with their activities while others stared, still getting used to the interaction between the two. Finally, Enasi managed to whisper.

"You'll be okay. . . I'm here for you."

[PopeAlessandros]

The nightmare denizens know the pain Seishu is in. They understand it, to a point, and in their own way support their guardian. The little touches to draw comfort from him have an added feeling of tenderness. Seishu appreciate the gestures, the soft subtle caring feeling so familiar and comforting despite the pain still raging through him. 'These are my little ones, and this is their way. They understand, and they trust me. No matter what, they know I do for them only what is best for them. They do not fear me, and my anger comforts them. My fury is something they have come to rely on, and my temper is something they are familiar with. I recall thinking that, when first trapped in the dream realm, how my anger seems unending and without purpose. I know now that it has a purpose, and while strong, it has an end. My anger then, I was unable to express it, which is why it never seemed to dissipate. . .'

The Nightmare Guardian must always be strong, and as long as he is being true to himself, he will be seen as such. Though harsh and unyielding in most matters, even his kindness is seen as a strength. Even though he covers his pain right now, even weeping openly would be seen as bravery in the eyes of his underlings. He however has never had the need to weep before his denizens, at least not often. The few times he has the denizens themselves were often breaking under their own negative emotions and took comfort and courage in the sight. Seishu's feeling, so closely matching theirs and not crushing him, would give them the strength to beat back the negative emotions.

_*_*_*_*_

Kaila leads Jentou a little ways away, off towards the woods a bit so they can have some privacy, and long the rout Seishu had been talking so that he can keep an eye on the guardian as long as possible. Even with his drive to care for his brother, Kaila never loses his drive to be there for his commander. Jentou on the other hand seems more of a blank slate than usual, his normally congenial face now free of any emotion whatsoever. Kaila gently begins cleaning him off, knowing he will need a full bath later, but for now he does the best ha can with a spare cloth. “I'm here Jentou, my brother. You are to live, as is Master Seishu's will, and I will be here with you for all times.” Wiping the tear streaks from his brother's cheeks his stomach drops as fresh ones fall, the final shock of the breaking wearing off.

Slipping forward the golden haired male wraps his arms around his brother's neck, burying his face against his collar bone and letting his feeling roll over him. A long string of apologies tumble from between trembling lips and despite the roughness of his voice Kaila hears every word. Mimicking Seishu's action Kaila still his brother's tongue with a kiss and whispers, “No my brother, do not speak. You have always had such a lovely voice, I would hate for it to be ruined now.”

Even through his sorrow Jentou finds his rather airy smile and nods, his brother's love coming through loud and clear. As Seishu slips past, rather than recoiling as one would expect after the pain the guardian caused him, Jentou's eyes seek him out, the ripples of pain coming off of him something new. He's always felt connected to the guardian, as every denizen has, however he sees it all in a new light now that his soul has be broken open to the possibility. Kaila follows his line of sight and moments later tenses as Enasi breaks from his guard. Despite his urge to jump up and stop the guardian his brother's grip on him along with his trust in Master Seishu keeps him in place. 'What is he. . . .?'

_*_*_*_*_

A ripple runs through the crowd around him and his head tilts to the side as he feels the disturbance coming from behind. Feeling Enasi moving closer he stops and an instant later his counterpart has latched on to him. Several waves of different emotions cascade through him; confusion, pain, comfort, and sorrow being the main ones. It is all he can do to keep himself still, waiting to feel what it is, to hear, something, anything. . .Since crossing over Seishu sense of his other half has dampened, the negative energy about them clogging his senses a bit and he'd had a fleeting touch of amusement earlier when he recalled making fun of Enasi for not being able to sense him properly after he'd first arrived.

Now however, this dampening causes him no end of near panic. So use to knowing an understanding Enasi's feelings, being in the dark even for such a short time when he himself is feeling so strongly, it's torture.

"You'll be okay. . . I'm here for you."

Those words crack through his body like a whip and after a long moment of silence he lets out a breath he did not know he was holding. Soundlessly he turns inside Enasi's embrace and with eyes full of such a jumble of emotions that they almost sparkle he looks upon his beloved and smiles gently. Instead of saying anything he wraps his arms around the smaller male and hold him tight, burying his face in those soft scarlet locks. He stays there for several minutes, taking such comfort from just having Enasi there with him and not hating him for his nature. A soft song comes to his throat and has he begins to hum it, those around him take up to tune.

Soon the entire camp is humming along, a few crystal clear voice singing the actual lyrics. It is a song they all know, the lullaby most of them went through their childhood falling asleep to, and a song Enasi himself has professed to enjoying. The chorus of voices sing perfectly together, each note in perfect time and pitch. For a fleeting instant Seishu thinks how something like this would be impossible in the dream realm, such precision built over several lifetimes and only capable from ones with as much discipline as those who dwell in the nightmare realm. He has no doubt that the dream denizens could sing together, but something like this seems almost unique and for now, Seishu chooses to believe it so.

Looking down at Enasi again, leaning back just enough so he can look into those multicolored eyes Seishu flicks his eyes over to indicate the camp and whispers, “So, not everything here is bad and painful. We have our own kind of beauty. . .” With that he leans in and kisses his counterpart. The kiss begins soft, but as the eyes on them seem to grow in number, and approval, Seishu can't help but draw Enasi into a heated kiss, his grip on the smaller male firm, but gentle. It isn't until he feels the need to breath that Seishu pulls back, kissing Enasi on the forehead before looking around at his underlings and waggling his eyebrows suggestively. The song fails as the ones who can see him begin laughing and pass back the word of what they'd witnessed.

Tiski giggles openly and looks over at Kaila and his brother, mimicking Seishu's motions so they know what he's just did and why everybody is laughing now. Jentou cover his mouth to avoid laughing along and Kaila rolls his eyes, his guardian's antic seemingly never ending. With Seishu and Enasi now back beside one another the team relaxes and Kaila calls Tyar over, asking the shadow to fetch some clothes for Jentou. Unlike his brother, the soft expression Jentou prefers much less Gothic garb and Tyar sets out to find something that suits him, after excusing itself with a bow to Seishu. Tiski slides forward and without any crudeness asks, “So Master Seishu, what's it like being with a dream? Get dizzy at all and fail in your duties?” He tone is only mildly teasing and she keeps her gaze on Seishu while the rest of the team present alternates between shaking their heads and grinning.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi loosened his grip around Seishu as he turned, but he never let go. He did look up at his counterpart and give him a gentle smile. The guardian didn't move from the hug. For several minutes he held tight to Seishu, not minding the eyes on them for once. His head lifted when he heard Seishu begin to hum. His eyes widened a little when not too long after the rest of the camp began to sing along. He smiled and looked to his side, watching as some of the minions paused to sing while others did their work, singing away. They sounded so nice too. . . Enasi had the impulse to sing along with them, but he held his tongue. It wasn't his song to sing. This was something for the Nightmare Realm and its minions. Instead, he enjoyed the tune.

He gazed up at Seishu, still smiling. "Nothing is ever that bad." His response was sealed with a sweet kiss. He could practically feel the multiple eyes staring at them. It was fine. Seishu kissed him in front of the dream minions often, and always tried to tease him. As the kiss got more intense, he managed to keep his composure. He kissed him back, still holding onto the nightmare guardian. The song never ceased until Seishu pulled away, returning to his playful self. Enasi smiled, glad to see Seishu feeling a bit better, and then laughed shyly as the whole camp began to laugh.

Once more the two were side by side and walking around the camp. He watched as the shadow minion, Tyar excused itself from them. Lan and Ran were left, but they were relaxed now that Seishu was there. Suddenly on Seishu's free side, he heard another voice talking to Seishu. He leaned forward a little to see who it was, only to blush lightly, seeing it was the one that had gotten up close. . .and quite personal with him. He listened to her questioning, and then looked up at his counterpart with a raised eyebrow. Then with a light chuckle, he decided to speak up.

"That would be the least of his problems. . . Your guardian seems to have a death wish every now and then. He'd hurt himself before I-" He paused and ran fingers through his hair. Enasi had hurt him before, by accident when he was being careless, so maybe that wasn't good wording for it. "Eh, it's just good to see him being able to move about. . . Without him getting injured." Tiski was the one to give a curious look, then she frowned at her guardian for getting hurt so much. She was sure there was little he could probably do at the time, but he could've tried to avoid it, even if it meant sitting on his butt all day.

[PopeAlessandros]

The cute little shy blush pulls a wide grin from the Nightmare Guardian and petting the back of Enasi's head he chuckles softly. Slipping to the side he begins walking once more. He still is rather unsure of himself, the emotion inside set to torment him for a good long time until he can purge them properly. Normally he would go to an empty place in the nightmare realm to release the emotions. There are several designated places to do this. Like the wells of positive energy in the dream realm, these places can absorb the emotions and in turn nurture the realm with it's painful goodness. 'Unfortunately, something like that would definitely draw far too much unwanted attention, so I'll have to ask a few of my darker nightmares to help me drain it off. I can't go back to the dream realm supercharged like this'

When Tiski slides over to ask her question Seishu rolls his eyes and is about to answer when Enasi speaks up. It takes all his willpower not to laugh out loud. Instead he breaths slowly and watches as Tiski and those within hearing range stare openly at Enasi, wondering if he's dense, or just a fool. After a calming breath Seishu reaches over with his free hand and tilts Enasi's chin up so he can give him a swift kiss before grinning wide. “That's not what she was talking about my dear flufflord.” Deciding to leave it at that the taller male releases the red head's chin and continue on his walk.

Tiski slides up on his other side, the one opposite Enasi, and asks softly, “He's really dense, isn't he?”

Seishu swats her hard making her yelp but responds with a smile, “He's not dense, he's just innocent, there's a difference. It's one of the things I enjoy about him.” At that Seishu gives Enasi's hip a squeeze and waves to a few nearby nightmares. One, a minotaur looking thing, tugs on a few of it's fellows and they all move to intercept the guardians. Handing Enasi off to Kaila's team, Lan and Ran flanking and Tiski positioned behind, Seishu once more steps away from his counterpart and approached the group. Most of them look like mythical monsters, and indeed most are from the minds of ancient humans, but a few appear almost human. Their skin is covered with grotesque scars and diseased skin.

He smiles at them, showing no disgust at their appearance and embracing them like they are cute little puppies. Speaking softly he murmurs, “I need to do a drain.” They all nod and without question prepare to receive the negative energy. From behind Enasi and the team Kaila comes rushing in, stopping beside his guardian before he can begin the transfer Seishu looks down at his second, those slightly wide eyes begging a question that Seishu understands but takes a moment to think on. 'He wants to take some of the energy out of me, but he knows that in his state this will hurt him. Normally I would let him, but I picked a group of nightmares for a reason. No matter how much they take, it will not hurt them'

Letting out a sigh Seishu gives Kaila a kiss and with a slightly put out expression the minion steps back. Tyar appears behind Tiski with Jentou at it's side. The robe is of a simple design and the white coloring sets off his skin and hair perfectly. Tyar was lucky to find it seeing as most of the clothing they have around camp is either modern or midevil. Jentou has always preferred white to be the perfect match for his brother and he is openly grateful to Tyar for hunting it down for him. There is a new light in his eyes as he moves forward to stand by Lan to wait for his brother, something that the siblings notice and smile at briefly.

Lan snags the blond's sleeve however when he tries to move closer to Kaila who, while complying with his master's wish, can't bring himself to move away completely until he's sure Seishu is okay. Seishu gives him a smile, nodding at Jentou when he notices him, and with another steadying breath he relaxes, holding his hands out to the nightmares. He takes it slow, not wanting their energy to surge up too quickly to the point of being very noticeable to anyone passing within a couple miles, but fast enough that he can get it over quickly. In less than a minute he's drained out all he needs to and with a nod and final touches to his nightmares he shoos them off back to work before returning to Enasi's side.

Jentou shivers slightly, calming when Kaila slips back and pull him into a hug. There is a definite chill in the evening air, and like many nights around the marsh as midnight breaks a fog inexplicably springs up around them, adding to the cold. Without being told Kaila leads the guardians to the place that was prepared for them while they walked and Seishu smiles at the sight of leathers and furs stretched out across the ground. Seishu ruffles Kaila's hair. “You know, I would sleep on the ground with you all any time, right?”

Kaila bows, one hand still holding tight to his brother's. “I know Master Seishu. However we were trying to show how grateful we are. . .” Standing back up he adds with a touch of his old half humor, “Besides, we were unsure if our delicate guest would be able to abide resting on the poisoned ground, and we knew you would want to stay close just in case.” The team take positions around the furs, Lan and Ran laying down to sleep along with Tiski while Tyar stays awake to keep watch. Seishu smirks at Kaila, the minion bringing up a good point since he himself knows what sleeping on the ground of the opposing realm can be. He does however raise and eyebrow and glance to the ground letting his second know that he and his brother are to sleep as well.

Turning to Tyar he calls out, “Tyar, when Enasi and I sleep in the same realm we tend to make a new kind of energy when we sleep. Make sure you let everyone know this and tell them not to worry. Tell them, it means my sleep is pleasant.” The shadow eyes him for a long moment then nods and settles. A lot of denizens overhear what he said and pass on the news. Seishu watches with a soft look on his face as Kaila and Jentou slide down and settle on the mossy ground, Jentou burying his face in his brother's chest before passing out right away. Holding out a hand Seishu pulls Enasi down with him on the furs with a sigh. “I don't know if you'll be able to fall asleep all that well right now, but just so you know, I won't be upset no matter how long I have to wait.” His arm settles around Enasi's waist, holding the smaller male to him gently. “Thanks for this, Enasi. . . .” With that, Seishu falls asleep, the comfort of the world around him, mixed with the exhaustion brought on by his suffering practically knocking him out as soon as his head hits the furs.

[AkiBlue]

The guardian accepted the kiss, but didn't respond to him. He partially assumed they weren't talking about the exact same thing, but nonetheless he spoke anyway. Enasi had no retort towards Tiski's question, so he simply huffed. Though Seishu decided to defend him, whereas Enasi decided to just brush it off. He wasn't dense. . . And he certainly didn't have to prove it to any of the nightmare minions. He crossed his arms and let Seishu take care of it. It wasn't like he planned to hold a grudge against her. Being called innocent instead of dense made him raise an eyebrow, confused as to why that would be such a thing for his counterpart. . . Especially when he lived in a realm that was a little less than innocent- in Enasi's point of view. But then again, that just raised the question of why he liked Seishu. Maybe it was because they were total opposites.

In the next moment, more nightmares came forward. Enasi paused, already planning to give them their space, and soon enough he was surrounded by Lan and Ran, with Tiski now taking up position. His eyes wandered the gruff looking minions, but be said nothing of them. His gaze fell on the draining Seishu was doing, making note that he did that at times as well. Though, sometimes he'd transfer them through hugs or just spread his energy around the realm. . .when he didn't feel like going to designated areas. He did understand the danger of Seishu doing such a thing, so there was nothing for him to be curious about. It didn't take long for the guardian to finish, and for them to be lead off somewhere else.

He could only laugh lightly towards being called delicate. He did appreciate the kindness and their thoughtfulness, but he assumed they were all tired of hearing him say thank you, so he gave a slight bow in thanks. Enasi realized when he was pulled down that he was watching everyone else lay and get comfortable. The fur was soft and there was an extra layer underneath for just in case reasons. He smiled and got comfortable next to Seishu. As comfortable as he was, he was still surrounded by nightmare minions and it was a lot darker than when the creatures of his realm normally went to sleep. Staying quiet so he didn't disturb the others sleeping, Enasi nodded to Seishu. And as he fell asleep, he planted a light kiss on his jaw.

He didn't think it would take too long for him to fall asleep, but that turned out to be a mistake for assuming. 'With his injuries. . . I'm sure it must feel a thousand times worse in my realm. . . And to think there are times when we're so careless. . .' He tried not to move so much as his eyes roamed around the camp. 'Everything is well ordered here. . . And they all seem in tune with each other. I don't believe the dream minions have ever had to worry about such a thing. Nor are they so. . .' Together? He didn't know the right word for it. But he admired it nonetheless. As his mind wandered, his eyes caught Tyar's as it floated around.

"You should try and get some rest."

The guardian blinked and nodded. With a sigh, he scooted back towards Seishu and closed his eyes. He didn't drift to sleep immediately, however after some time of letting his mind wander over what happened he did finally slip into a light slumber.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Enasi blinked and looked around. Realizing he had finally fallen asleep, he gave a sigh of relief. Even if Seishu told him he'd be fine, Enasi still would apologize for making him wait. It wasn't a nice feeling being in such a darkness. The sky accommodated to Enasi, brightening into a deep red and orange to show the sunset. He smiled at the thought knowing that the sunset was in his realm. "It's alright you all. I'm still fine." The guardian whispered on the breeze as the rest of Their World started to form. Enasi rubbed his hand, right over the symbol and searched for Seishu.

[PopeAlessandros]

~As Seishu settle into the nothing to wait for Enasi, he lets his mind wander pleasantly, trying to come up with something entertaining for their first time in the nightmare realm.

I mean, I plan on at least one more day, hopefully two.

We should have at least that much time.

I should think up some places to bring him too.

The flare swamp is nearby. . . .

A momentary sadness engulfs Seishu as he realizes that this will be the only time he will ever have to show his realm off to Enasi, and he can't even show him the best parts. All the really cool stuff is likely occupied by Gin and his traitors, including the palace.

Well, at least I know my room is safe.

No one can get in there unless I want them to.

Guardian or not, Gin shall not have that pleasure.

His mind then turns to the venue for the evening, the little spark of joy at thinking of the frustration Gin must have gone through over not being able to take the guardian room for his own fueling his good mood. Though at this point, anything to distract him from his pain is worth thinking about in his opinion. As the ideas begin to form, his heightened stimulation from before sliding to the forefront and coloring his thoughts a little naughty, he can vaguely feel a slight shift around him.

Enasi isn't asleep yet.

What is. . . .

Ah, he must be getting close.

With an invisible wicked grin he gets ready to stand up. As soon as the light appears Seishu is on his feet and with arms raised begins sculpting their world. Leaving the sunset in place knowing how much Enasi missed the sun, he lets his imagination run wild and begin forming the world around them. With a great cracking sound a cliff rises up out of nowhere, stretching out on either side far, very far. . .But soon the ground once more opens and trees spring up so thick that seeing much beyond a few yards impossible. The leaves are of vibrant cold colors such as blue, purple, and green, each tree's leaves a single color. They dance wildly as a nice breeze kicks up and with his grin still in place Seishu alters the composition of it so that it will stimulate Enasi at least enough so that he doesn't feel alone in his pleasure.

From the top of the cliff water erupts at one point and where it strikes the dark blue grass below a pool begins taking shape. The waters surge and swirl but in no time the pool is large enough that most of it is relatively still. The angle of the sun off the waterfall's mist forms a perfect rainbow adding a touch of dream style beauty to the scene. During the creation of the scene Seishu can feel his exertion on their surroundings taking a slight toll on him, however he is determined to complete the vision in his head and plows on. Around the pool the grass extends for couple dozen feet before the treeline and with a sigh he brings forth several patches of flowers, half the color of one of Enasi's eyes, and the other half the color of the other eye.

Chuckling at the little joke he looks to the sky, adding a few shape shifting clouds that reflect the light ever so nicely. “Now for the final touch. . .” he whispers softly. During his little trip through the dream realm he's noticed something interesting and for one last bit of comfort for his beloved counterpart, he brings it forth. His legs wobble ever so slightly as a huge flock of fish appear around the clearing. Some tropical, some not, even some colorful mantas mixed in, all fly around the area like it's the most natural thing in the world. Smiling at the sight Seishu finally lets himself drop and with a huff he flops on his back to wait for Enasi. Feeling the energy slowly returning the Nightmare Guardian comes to the conclusion that it was simply the speed at which he exerted his will over Their World that tired him out, and not the things he was asking for. He smiles softly at a manta brushes past a tree and it sounds like crystals tapping together. “Pretty. . . .”~

[AkiBlue]

Enasi took a few steps forward, wondering what the world was going to form into. He was never the best at doing such a thing. Then again, he never really tried so hard. Enasi worked with his immediate feelings, rather than letting a calm overtake him as he tried to express himself. But, it was all going to change. The guardian did make a promise to change his ways. . . Which meant he was going to get better at 'open' self expression- even if it was one step at a time. His pouring thoughts focused and registered on the newly growing world.

Deep colorful trees prodded from the ground as Enasi took some steps. It was the first thing he noticed. Staying in one spot too long caused him to get swooped up by a low branch. He smiled and gently pushed away the soft purple leaf that tickled his cheek. For a moment, he rested on the branch to try and spot some things with higher ground. But the forest was thick and there wasn't much he could see. So the guardian pressed forward. With how thick the trees were, Enasi went from branch to branch, rather than simply going to the ground. The sound of a waterfall wasn't too far off. As he got to the edge of the forest, one of the branches bent as if to let him down carefully only to snap right back to attention.

The Dream Guardian landed right in a flower patch. "Oh. . . Pretty." The flowers were a blue color, but nothing like the leaves of the forest. It was a lighter blue, yet it still fit in with the scenery. Looking up to his original target, he spotted the waterfall and in addition a rainbow to accompany it. Enasi smiled in delight and walked carefully through the flower patch. As he did, the flowers separated into a path so he wouldn't hurt any of them, and soon enough, they changed colors. From the light blue, they were now a golden yellow color. He stopped and looked at them, examining them just as he did the blue flowers. With a glance back at the blue flowers he continued his trek- only to pause moments later.

Hey wait a minute. . .

Enasi turned back to the flowers, going to stand right in the split of them.

Blue. . . And gold. . . Where have I-

He blinked and then laughed to himself. His eye colors. That's what it was. Seishu made the flowers to match his eyes. "How nice. I like this." Then again, he liked all of it. It was a touch of both realms in one, and yet it still felt like home. Everything seemed wonderfully balanced and nicely in tuned with the other. Enasi walked through the flowers and ended up on a familiar soft dark blue grass.

"I've been so busy looking around, I never looked," Enasi's eyes wandered upward to the sky. He watched as clouds danced, changing shape every now and then. He looked up just in time to see the sea life flying in the air.

He even added them.

Seishu was going out of his way to make everything so nice. It was fantastic. Speaking of Seishu, he spotted the male sprawled on the ground. Enasi smiled and cupped his hands together. In his hands formed a flourishing flower similar to a rose with a little more petals on it. Half of this flower was white as Seishu's hair, the other was a deep burgundy color resembling the color of Enasi's own hair. He smiled and blew against the flower, letting it float off towards Seishu. It spun and danced as the wind carried it over to his counterpart. Right as it made it over Seishu, it spun a little faster before exploding into a sparkling dust of the same colors. There was no real purpose besides getting the Nightmare Guardian's attention.

It never landed on him since the wind decided to let it float away with the breeze, but during the time, Enasi wandered over. He looked down at Seishu, grinning. Before he spoke, he sat by his counterpart's side, moving the long white hair so he didn't end up laying on it. Enasi leaned over and so boldly stole a kiss. "I love what you've done with the place." He looked out at the scenery admiring it all and with a soft sigh looked up at the sky and whistled. A group of the manta rays stopped in their tracks and changed course. None of them came toward the two guardians, in fact they started to perform a little show for them. They looped and flew through the sky doing various tricks like spiraling downward of skinning through the air.

[PopeAlessandros]

~The faint tinkling sound of the leaves brushing against one another is the first sign that Enasi is approaching and with a sigh Seishu lets his eyes fall closed.

I really hope he likes it. . .

The breeze shifts and his eyes open slowly. A moment later, against a backdrop of cloud, a flower floats into his line of vision. “Pretty. . . .” he murmurs once again, blinking as the flower spins than shatters into sparkles. Grinning he stays still, content with waiting for Enasi to come to him, and still a little worse for wear. Eyes falling close again he just lets the breeze rush over him, until he feels his hair being moved. He opens his eyes in mild surprise when Enasi leans in for a kiss and silently thanks the wind for the sudden boldness.

Chuckling softly he sighs and watches the display, wondering if the real ones in the dream realm act the same way. He stays silent for a good long while, wanting his energy to be at least half back before trying to do anything. When at last he feels well enough to move he sits up slowly, one hand braced on the ground behind Enasi. The position makes his next move easy and almost innocent. Leaning on that hand he tips to the side, his bare chest rubbing across his counterpart's arm softly as he left this vest open, and with his usual half smile in place he slips in close, placing a gently kiss on Enasi's neck, just behind his ear. Moving back barely an inch he whispers directly into the other guardian's ear, “I'm glad you like it. . .”

The breeze ruffles his loose Arabian style clothes and as he leans back, giving Enasi a false look of innocence, his soft vest slips back to reveal even more of his skin. He lets out a sigh, looking to the clouds overhead, his torso still slightly behind Enasi so when the wind shifts every so often his long white locks drift across the shorter male's body. With another chuckle Seishu watches as the manta mimic the ones he made during the underwater acrobatics show. With a light breathy sound he stands, stretching. “That really drained me. I should be more careful how fast I build here. . .” He smiles at Enasi before moving off towards the pool. With a wave of his hand he draws from their first experience and dots the bottom of the deep pool with beautiful gemstones that reflect the light above them beautifully.~

[AkiBlue]

Enasi's eyes wandered through around the realm until he felt Seishu sitting up. Instead of turning his head, he was met with a kiss behind his ear. It caused a shiver to go down his spin and that all too familiar blush to form. Fortunately, the guardian's features didn't mimic the same color as his hair. It was showing that he was much more relaxed about it than before- even when he kissed Seishu in front of all of his minions. Maybe it was something about Seishu's realm that caused the act, or maybe Enasi was just coming to terms with the intimacy- either way, it was fine with him.

"How could I not like it? You did all this for me. I love it." Those multicolored eyes went from the manta performing into the sky to the white specks that appeared in his peripheral. He looked to see that it was Seishu's hair, so he let the long locks fly about. Whenever it landed in his lap, he didn't hesitate to run his fingers through them. It was interrupted with a small pout and a gentle swat towards Seishu. "You don't need to hurt yourself in every realm you go in you know." Enasi stuck his tongue at Seishu though only ended up following after him as he walked to the pool.

With hands behind his back, he leaned forward to get a better view of the pond. All those colorful, beautiful gems glistened and gleamed making him smile. "They're lovely as before." Lights caught his eyes as he spoke. Turning his head, he noticed the glow of lights in the trees, ones just like when they were playing hide and seek. He laughed softly as Their World mixed in a little old with the new.

[PopeAlessandros]

~Seishu chuckles softly at the accusation that he seems to hurt himself a lot. “Need I remind you that I am far more often hurt by others and then just exacerbate the issue my dear?” He sighs and looks over his shoulder at the trees. “Though I must say, even if I was hurting myself here, I consider it worth it so see that look on your face. . .” Slipping behind Enasi's back expertly he wraps his arms around the smaller male's waist and presses another kiss to the same spot as before. “Before I delve out Gin's punishment, I'll have to thank him properly. Without his betrayal, you'd still hate me, and I'd still be admiring you from afar.” Nipping Enasi's ear lightly he lets the red head go and moves to the edge of the pool.

With a soft sigh his clothes vanish, all of them, and with a smirk he looks over his shoulder at Enasi, his hair providing a curtain to keep him mostly hidden from sight. “When in Rome, eh?” He wonders if Enasi will recall his swimming preference when it comes to clothing and after a second turns and dives into the water. Exerting a little will he keeps his hair between him and Enasi's line of sight as he beckons his counterpart forward from beneath the surface.~

[AkiBlue]

"Hmph, that doesn't mean you add on to the injuries." Enasi knocked a small pebble into the water with his foot to watch the light rippling effect. Seishu moved, causing Enasi to observe him instead. Rather than being able to ponder, Seishu's lips once again swept over that recognizable spot from before. His hands clasped together and let out a soft exhale. It was followed by a smile and Enasi crossing his arms against his chest and turning his head away. "Hate you? I've never hated you, what's this nonsense you're spouting?" His voice held a playful, teasing tone. The redhead turned his attention back to Seishu as he pulled away. His eyes averted from the sight of his counterpart stripping nude. ". . . Do as the Romans do. . ." He finished the saying and watched as Seishu swam about in the nude.

For a moment, Enasi only stood and watched. He dwelled over the idea of swimming with him, occasionally glancing at the glimmering gems at the bottom. However, he had another idea. He turned and walked away from the pond. His wings snapped out and moments later he was up in the sky. Enasi whistled an unfamiliar tune. He had heard it a couple of times before in the human realm, but paid no mind to it till now. It was an unimportant song that only lasted for less than a minute. He flew up with the fish, 'dancing' along with them. After a few moments, the guardian spiraled downward towards the pond. His clothes vanished, all except his undergarments. The white, fluffy wings disappeared as he dived under water, and moments later so did his undergarments. It was odd at first, but he decided to go with it. Enasi stayed under for some time to admire the gems.

Soon enough, Enasi poked his head above the surface and looked over at Seishu. "When in Rome, I suppose." He laughed softly and gave a light shrug. It did seem fair after all. Seishu was willing to follow the customs of the Dream Realm, Enasi could try his hand out on Seishu's customs as well.

[PopeAlessandros]

~Looks like he'd rather not. . .

Seishu can feel his stomach grow tighter and tighter as he watches Enasi above the surface, seemingly unwilling to enter the water. The feeling doesn't get to bad due the the nature of Their World, but as he watches he wonders if he should have just given up and materialized some swim trunks.

I just meant it a s a tease.

I didn't mean to ruin his mood. . .

He gets ready to swim to the top and tell Enasi that he's putting on some clothes when he sees something that makes his heart ache.

He's. . . .Walking away. . .

Not even Their World can completely soften the blow of having driven his counterpart off. He closes his eyes and puts on some shorts unconsciously. His body drifts to the surface, his eyes opening slowly.

I see.

He'd rather be with the things that remind him of home. . .

Stuff from my realm is unwelcome. . . .

With a sigh all the trees shift to lighter colors, the sun rises a little higher to give off more light like what they are accustom to in the dream realm, and the blue grass turns a cheery shade of green. The lights dancing in the trees become actual fairies and race up to join Enasi, though he doesn't seem to notice them.

There.

Perfect copy. . . .

Seishu is known for jumping to conclusions so it is no wonder that when Enasi took his actions that it would bother the white haired male. However he would not normally react so strongly to such a simple thing. Unfortunately for Enasi, Seishu is very fragile right now, and with his actions the most natural conclusion to his shattered heart is that Enasi didn't really mean what he said when he claimed that he would be there for him. Normally Their World would reflect these feelings, but even stronger is his need to make Enasi happy, so it stays the sunny, bright, happy world reminiscent of the Dream Guardian's home.

When at last Enasi joins him, even if it was only a minute apart, Seishu is too far gone to understand what really happened. He doesn't notice that Enasi has decided to swim in the nude. He doesn't realize that the other was just screwing up his courage or whatever it was. All he knows is that Enasi walked away and left him alone when he said he would be there for him. His words fall on deaf ears and without a word he climbs out of the pool, his clothes appearing on his soaking we body, and he races off into the the woods to nurse his crushed heart all alone.

I don't want to ruin his evening as well.

I already did enough of that when we were awake. . .~

[AkiBlue]

Seishu never spoke. Instead, Enasi was answered by the changes of Their World.

What is he doing?

Why is everything changing? I liked it the way it was. . .

Realizing everything had gotten a little brighter made the guardian squint a bit until his eyes adjusted. He noticed as the faeries flew forward and smiled as they hugged and decided to swim with him. . . But something was wrong.

As much as I love my realm, I'd rather see the creativity in Our World. . .

Before he asked why Seishu would do such a thing, Enasi changed it all back. The sun set once more, the colors changed back into their deep beautiful colors, and the faeries waves goodbye as they flew off to return to their states as lights.

There was a sudden splash when Enasi turned his head. He had fixed every little detail, only to see Seishu running off. "Seishu? Where are you. . . What's wrong?" By then, he knew he couldn't be heard, yet he asked anyway. Something. . . Something was wrong. There was a sudden change of heart to the Nightmare Guardian, and of course the Dream Guardian jumped to conclusions.

Did I. . . He must've not liked what I did. I didn't mean to hurt his feelings.

I was only playing around. . .

He climbed out of the water, taking one of the red gems with him. Clothes appeared on him despite him just getting out the pool. Enasi walked to the edge of the forest, gazing at all the thick trees. . . "Hide and seek it is." Of course he didn't think of it as a fun game since Seishu didn't seem like he wanted to play anymore.

Enasi searched through the trees, following the pulls of the symbol on his hand. As he walked with no luck, he looked at the little lights. With a faint whisper, he murmured to them. "Find him for me. Please?" They responded instantly. The lights shifted, creating a pathway amongst the trees towards their target. "Thank you." In response, the lights brightened ever so slightly before dimming again. He remembered just how much Seishu liked to hide in the trees, so he climbed up and moved across the branches, following the lights.

Wherever Seishu was, the lights near him circled above him slowly, getting darker in response to the sadness. As Enasi approached the spot, he noticed the lights end, but nowhere in view was Seishu. But, he said nothing. Afraid that if he spoke, he be on a hunt again. The guardian inched closer to the trees, realizing that Seishu was on ground level. Little by little the guardian moved forward, peeking in the branches. To his surprise, Enasi spotted the guardian all curled up. He pushed his way through the tree branches and frowned up a little. "Why'd you run off like that? Did you not want me to swim with you?" Enasi sat down next to Seishu, playing in Seishu's hair gently. His eyes never left Seishu's face, looking for some sort of sign before he gave his answer.

[PopeAlessandros]

~As he races away from the site it registers only vaguely in the back if his mind that the world is shifting back. The sunset returns, the lights in the trees race back into place. Everything returns, but all Seishu can focus on is finding a quiet place away from Enasi. A place where he would be able to keep from hurting the Dream Guardian further.

I pained him so much.

It's foolish to think such caring could overlook what I made him watch.

I could have waited, dealt with him after the war was over and away from his gaze.

His dull gaze shifts back and forth, looking for. . . something. . .

I hurt and kill his people, as he hurts and kills mine, but even as he tries to help me I continue hurting them, and him, causing him grief.

He does not deserve this added pain. . .

My unwanted advances. . . .

At last he spots it. There, in the distance, a wayward pine. He slows just enough to not run face first into the low branches, falling to his knees and crawling in quickly before settling his back against the base of the trunk. His hands com up to hold his head, his thoughts swiftly racing away from coherent and devolving into a jumble of things he can't understand. Their World works hard to try an keep his emotions stable, but it can do nothing for his ever increasing rate of negative thoughts. A pained whine finds it way out from between his lips and he silently falls on to his side, his arms wrapped around his legs as they press against his chest.

I should leave him be.

Let him taste home.

We should go back tomorrow. . . .

I have seen my little ones, and they me.

Forcing my world on Enasi is not fair. . . .

Not right. . . .

By the time Enasi reaches him, Seishu's resolve is in place, his face, blank. He twitches ever so slightly at the sound of the trees parting but otherwise stays still.

He should have stayed back at the pool.

Spent more time with his fairies.

Had more fun in the light. . .

It slowly begins to register that the light is low once more and as Enasi speaks, sitting down and playing with his hair, a small smile comes to his lips as he sits up. He keeps his eyes averted from Enasi as his smile grows wider. “Nah, I just wanted to give you time with your realm. I didn't want you to feel forced into obeying local customs. I shouldn't have done that. I'm sorry.” He props himself up once more against the trunk. “After all the unpleasantness from the evening I shouldn't have added to it. . . .” He sighs softly. “We'll head home in the morning. You shouldn't be here. I should never have asked. After what you've been willing to do for me, I asked too much. . .You don't belong here.”

With those final words Seishu looks at Enasi at last, his broken soul shining out through his eyes. His smile is till in place, and he seems fine, but behind that light expression the pain of his shattered mind and aching heart shines out like a fire hidden behind a thick veil. Without another word he stands and moves over tot he branches. Pushing through he holds a few of them back like a gentleman holding a door open for his date. Once Enasi is out he begins walking back towards the pool with the other guardian at his side. He is quiet, still smiling, but seemingly lost in thought.~