[IC] When Realms Collide {AkiBlue & PopeAlessandros}

[AkiBlue]

Their hands met and he watched as the symbol on Seishu's hand grew. It meant that Seishu did survive the accident, and that he wasn't on the brink of death anymore. The guardian gave a content sigh, keeping his eyes on their hands. He let the odd energy spark and flow between them. Every time they got close, the energy would do something like it. It was such an odd sensation, but Enasi didn't think he minded too much. For as long as the meeting went, was how long the burgundy haired male stayed silent. He didn't want to interrupt an important report between Seishu and his minions. This didn't mean he didn't listen. He kept a close ear on it, listening to see if anything would come to his concern as well. All of it did,  but he was sure it was more of personal worry than anything. The interaction between nightmare and minion was quite sentimental, and it made it clear how close Seishu was to his minions. Just as Enasi was close to his. He didn't expect less, but it was a cute moment. Even Seishu had his loveable side.

The twins began to depart, making Enasi look up as they create the portal. He caught on to the looks that they were given and merely looked over at Seishu. As they left, he pulled his hand away slowly and turning to sit by Seishu, facing the same direction he was. He lifted his legs, and rested his head on his knees. He looked around at the view  before him and then to Seishu. "After you passed out, I told those two minions to drag you somewhere safe, which they did. I stayed with Lilium, she I tried to contain her, and tried to talk reason into her. . . But she seemed too far gone to realize her wrongdoing. But even I could see in her eyes... She was torn inside, not knowing what to do." The next part made him rub his arm gently. "I tried to contain her, but she did the craziest thing of.... cutting her arm... off. I was a little shocked, and it have her opportunity to escape back into the Nightmare Realm." He shook his head and looked down in thought. "A lot of those minions of yours... to see you once more... they were so shocked, a lot even overjoyed. There's still hope in your reign." Enasi looked over at him with a soft look in his eyes. "Minions still want their Seishu back." He gave a small smile and then put his legs down, only to rest with his arms propping him up.

"In other news, Rue is also safe at home. He suffered a few injuries, but I told the guard to send him straight to Crios." With that being said, Enasi quieted down to let Seishu mull over his words. 'All of my dreams are gone home. Which means Harper is probably worrying about me for not returning with the others.
I'm fine Harper. His focus was on multiple things at once. Not checking on Rue before made him wonder and hope was okay, along with his other minions who were injured. He trusted his medical staff, so he didn't worry too much about the injured.

~~~~*****~~~

As Harper waited, he thought over who would possibly be the best candidate for protecting the Nightmare. He couldn't risk taking his guards out of their positions. They needed to be ready for any attacks sent their way and they had positions to hold. This may have been harder than imagined- without practically asking everyone up front if they'd be willing to protect the guardian. Hopefully, Crios managed to do as he said.

Going over the patients, Crios listened as some mingled between each other. He was listening for the "braver ones" along with the any suspicious talk. The last thing he needed was the dream minions questioning the authority and the tactics. They didn't need that again. As he tended to a dream, one with a broken tail, he over heard a few talking. It made his own tail and ears twitch ever so slightly.

"Finn, you fought valiantly."

"Ha, I didn't know you plant siblings were such good fighters!"

"Even how you two managed to defend the Nightmare Guardian while those other two minions took him to safety. Amazing."

A male with an excessive amount of green on, including the earthly green tint of his hair and eyes, only smiled humbly. "We only followed our Guardian's wishes." The girl next to him didn't have as much green on, but she did have many flowers on her, and it looked as though a few branches were propped in her hair. She smiled with her brother, a little more enthusiastic. "Those nightmares were no match for us. Hehe." The two siblings were getting complimenter for their fighting efforts.

Crios continued treating his patients, planning to speak with them afterwards. He didn't want to make too much of a big deal out of it because the plan needed to stay low key, and they still had yet to explain their plans to Lord Enasi.

[PopeAlessandros]

As his hand slides away Seishu looks past Enasi to the sky above. He can feel the stream of negativity coming from his counterpart slowing in the cool mountain air. The breeze rushing across the little shelf reminds Seishu of another mountain, one that never really existed, and most likely, he would never see again. 'If our dream thing world keeps changing with each incarnation I can see us traveling to many places before I return home, then I have no doubt we will return to our own personal hells. Perhaps if we had the rest of our existence to go there together we'd be able to see it again, but I know that just can not be. . .' His head turns towards Enasi again as he begins speaking and he listens carefully to his report. He sighs at the idea of her being unsure, and while he knows that their instincts would try and keep them loyal to Seishu, he knows Lillium. 'If she was doubting, it was her own personal doubts' he muses.

He can not help but flinch at the thought of her harming herself to escape, but he can not help but thinking that it was a very Lillium thing to do. 'That's what her spirit is like Enasi. In her mind, such sacrifices are always worth it to reach her ends' He does not say this aloud of course since it would probably sound like he approves of her actions. When his eyes meet Enasi's Seishu rolls them back into his head and lets out a little laugh. “Yeah, that's my brood for ya.” He chuckles again before grabbing his ribs in pain. In truth his entire front side aches rather badly, but the jiggling motion caused by the laugh is enough to pull a groan out of him, his breath hitching mid chuckle. The flow from Enasi finally comes to an end and despite the fact that he can feel more emotions bottled up in the male he does not ask for more. 'I'm glad the Little Bite is okay, but he is in for such a thrashing when I get my hands on him'

'He may need to look at some of those feelings. Maybe they will help him pull his head out. .. ' “Hold still.” he murmurs, reaching out to take hold of Enasi's shoulder. Using it as leverage the Nightmare Guardian slowly pulls himself up a little at a time. 'If I can't even do this much, I'll shoot myself' he decides then and there, and as he rises higher and higher, he can feel a little bit of his old friend anger begin boiling up. However he holds it back until he's sitting at Enasi's side,t he little victory bringing a smile to his lips. “okay, I'm good for today. You can help me with the rest highness.” he says through clenched teeth. As Enasi helps him to his feet Seishu begins growling in anger at the pain, his rage about the situation pounding into him at full force, but the occasional whimper finds it's way out between his bared teeth. Holding tight to Enasi he doesn't trust himself not to bite the guy so instead he just holds on tight and waits for whatever plan the Dream Guardian has in mind to get him back to the Dream Realm.

_+_+_+_+_+_+_

Clutching his delivery close to his chest, the blond haired minion makes his way through the unusually busy halls of the palace. Most days he would be walking these halls alone, the occasional staff stopping to look at him or stopping him to ask what he's up to, but today no one pays him any notice. They all seem like they have something important to do, a high level of worry and tension making Inui a bit uncomfortable. However the young minion is determined to get his weekly chore done, no matter what is going on around him. That does not mean he's not curious, and he listens carefully to each little bit of conversation he can overhear without actually eavesdropping. He makes sure to keep his feet moving, holding tight to the packet of papers in his arms so that the occasional jostle by someone not looking where they are going does not scatter them to the four winds.

Finally he finds his way to the soldier's office, however no one seems to have time for him. He tries several times to ask someone where Harper is, but finally he overhears someone talking about the rabbit man being in the main halls so without hesitation he leaves the office. 'They are in such an uproar. I wonder if it has anything to do with why the town has had so many incidents of minions coming home early from their jobs, and some with injuries' Even as he thinks that, a soldier with a freshly bandaged head rushes past and Inui pauses to stare after him. 'That can not still be from the battle, that was days ago! What is going on here!?' Ducking low he makes his way almost to the hall before something catches his attention, stopping him cold.

“Man, why do we have to go through so much trouble for that friggan' Nightmare Guardian!? Isn't it bad enough that Lord Enasi is letting him stay here while he recovers, but now we have to fight alongside those monsters to defend him?”

“Yeah, it's all his fault that that little dork went to earth alone as it is, and does he apologize for it? I've heard the stories, all he does is torment and pick on anyone he doesn't “like”. I trust Lord Enasi, but I can't help feeling sick every time I think of that thing being in our palace.”

Swallowing hard Inui forces his legs to move. A strange feeling begins beating through his chest, and he finds himself confused as to why he's not more afraid. 'I mean, he's the lord over all those nightmares and minions that kill our kind. He's killed thousands of our kind himself, but. . . .But lord Enasi is letting him stay here. For some reason, he needs to be here. But why? Injured? Shouldn't he be home then? So strange' So lost in his thoughts he doesn't watch where he's going for a few seconds, but that's all it takes for disaster to strike. A guard runs into him full force, striking his right shoulder on accident causing the little minion to cry out, spinning on the spot only to send the papers flying as he tries to catch himself. However he lands hard on his backside and his illusion falls.

His bright green eyes change into a sharp red color, and his honey blond hair fades into a pure black mass. Near the portal Harper turns his head to the noise and spotting the boy on the floor, papers scattered all around him, he stands and makes his way through the crowd to his side. Inui stands carefully, rubbing his backside with a faint hurt look on his face. When he looks around however to apologize for running into the guard he notices that everyone is looking at him now. Many look more than a little shocked, and a few even look afraid. It's then that he realizes that his illusion slipped and with a small sound he pulls in back into place.

Harper, having watched the little display, shoos the others off to continue their duties. 'Interesting. I do not recall ever seeing that side of Inui before. I didn't recognize him at first with that hair, or especially those eyes' Inui looks over to him, an unreadably sad look behind his eyes but before Harper can say anything he gets on all fours to try and gather up the scattered papers, a mumbled apology on his lips. 'I bet he's never been to popular, looking like that' Harper muses, crouching down to help. As soon as all the papers are gathered Harper recognizes it as the weekly incident report for the town and thanks Inui for his service.

The boy turns to leave but after a few paces he stops and turns back to the general. “Um, sir, I'm sorry if it is none of my business, but I overheard something and I'm wondering if it's true what they say.” He shuffles from foo to foot, glancing at the ground then back to Harper. The long eared male simply raises an eyebrow in question, wondering what the boy overheard but unwilling to bring anything up in case he's wrong about what he thinks it might be. After all, Seishu is suppose to be a secret for now. Inui takes he hint and after a few seconds his gaze drops again. “I overheard some guys talking about. . . .The Nightmare Guardian? They said he's here in the palace. . .” The blond jumps as Harper lets out a sigh and wonders if he overstepped his bounds.

“He's not in the palace at this very moment, however it is true that he is staying here for a while. He's in need of medical attention and his own realm isn't safe for him right now. Lord Enasi has ordered us to exercise discretion with this information though, so please do not tell anyone in town about this, alright?” Harper gives the boy a hard look and he sees Inui swallow hard.

Nodding his head rapidly Inui says, “Of course sir. I'm sure most denizens would freak out over the news. I'll keep the peace, don't worry. I was just curious.” With that he bows and when he stands back up Harper sees something in his eyes that seems rather familiar.

Watching the young male go for a few seconds Harper tries hard to recall where he recognizes the look in his eyes from. Finally he turns, handing the report to a soldier to be delivered to his desk before returning ti his vigil by the portal. Crossing his arms he thinks hard for several minutes, the slowly, ever so slowly, a smile comes to his furry lips. “You little Rue you. . .” he murmurs and with a chuckle he makes note of a potential candidate for 'Rue's Team Plan'.

[AkiBlue]

"Holding." was the only reply Enasi gave when Seishu grabbed on to him. He figured what he planned to do, and sat sturdy and supportive, looking up at the sky. When the Nightmare Guardian sits up fully, he noticed the faint smile and spoke. "Heh, good job. You've accomplished not dying, and sitting up on your own, sort of." He gave a small smile towards the lighthearted jab and slowly stood to his feet. Being called 'your highness' made Enasi look down questionably, and once again he couldn't help but give a 'playful' reply. "I guess it's progress." He held his hand out for Seishu to grab. This time, not according to plan, as Seishu pulled to get up, Enasi stumbled forward- luckily catching his balance, with either leg at Seishu's sides. Because he wasn't sitting on his bed like when Enasi normally had to lift him, gravity decided to mess with them both.

With a huff, this time Enasi lifted his hand in a gesturing motion, and that familiar energy disk propped him on his feet. Before Seishu could fall forward, Enasi was in front of him, holding to his shoulders. Seishu whined and growled, but Enasi ignored it, wrapping an arm around his waist carefully. "Brace yourself." was all Enasi could say as the portal appeared and he trudged inside. On the other side, rabbit ears once again stood at attention when he felt the familiar energies approaching. The rabbit jumped up, immediately going to help with dragging Seishu to his room. "Are you okay Lord Enasi?" Receiving a nod, Harper nodded back and surprisingly gently helped Seishu. His paws were pretty soft so, when they accidentally brushed against his arm, Seishu would feel the soft fur.

As the three of them went into the room Seishu could basically claim as his own, the familiar ball of energy perked up from under the covers. "Lord Enasi! Mister Seishu!" Enasi looked over the bandages he had on, but stayed silent as he helped Seishu to the bed. When he finished, he was going to say something, but Harper interrupted.

"Lord Enasi, I need to speak with you on important matters." And just like that, the Dream Guardian turned away to follow Harper, closing the door behind him.

Rue's heart dropped and his wings did too as he watched his guardian go without a word. A sad, and slightly teary expression replaced his happy one from before. 'Lord Enasi must still be upset with me. I really am sorry...' That's when he turned with large sad eyes to Seishu for comfort and advice. He hated to have the Dream Guardian ignore him like that, it was slowly tearing at him with guilt.

*****----*****----*****

"What is so urgent? Besides everything else?" Enasi sighed, leaning against the wall, unsure of he could take any more unsettling news. There was already so much that was going on. Harper quickly shook his head to deter his guardian's worry.

"No sir. It's a plan to project the Nightmare. Crios and I have already discussed this. And actually this was a plan Rue thought of." The rabbit went on to explain the special task force assigned to protect the Nightmare, all of them not bothered by his status. Harper included Crios and Cho as apart of the force. "One to heal, and one to make sure no one tries to poison him." He also added the criteria as well. "They have to be fighters of course. I wouldn't endanger any of them if I knew they couldn't protect themselves." Once the explanation was over, one of Harper's ears bent ever so slightly, and he gave a curious look, waiting for denial or acceptance.

Enasi stood and mulled it over. It was something he had never thought of obviously, and it made sense giving the peoole who weren't bothered by Seishu the task to protect him. "And you said Rue thought of this?" With the nod he recieved, Enasi smiled gently and nodded. "It's a swell idea actually. This is why I have dreams like you by my side." Harper looked a little embarrased about it, but bowed. "Now, go tell Crios that I approve of your plans, and then tell him to cater to Seishu when he's ready."

Like the fast rabbit he was, he bolted off to do his job. At times, he wanted to see a race between Harper and Rue. Both were the fastest creatures in the realm, one by air and one by the ground. It would be a sight to see.

But that wasn't the focus at the moment. Enasi's focused went into going back into the room to see if Seishu was holding up alright.

//////\\\\\\

Harper made a complete break when he saw the doctors going back and forth in the room. It wasn't wise for him to go in and get in their way. So, with a passing doctor, he politely asked the woman to get Crios' attention. It appeared she had a slight infatuation with the rabbit, responding with a cutesy, "Anything for you~" making Harper's ears twitch slightly.

Quickly, he shook his head and watched as Crios came toward him. "What is it rabbit?" The doctor spoke, using the name lightly,  almost as a nickname.

Harper didn't seem to mind, and he spoke. "Enasi agreed to the plan. Also, your little Night is in need of treatment. He's messed himself up pretty bad...again." Crios' trail sparked in annoyance, and he sighed.

"Fuan, take over. I have to go." The dream nodded and went on about her tasks. Then, the two began walking.

"Careful with that tail, sheesh. You're going to end up burning something." Harper said, every now and then taking a step to the side when his tail sparked. Crios heaved a sigh and relaxed. It was just a little frustrating to know that all his hard work had gone down the drain. "By the way. I've found a potential candidate for this operation."

Just to calm his nerves, Crios smirked a little. "Oh really, I found two." He one-uped the rabbit and watched as Harper rolled his eyes slightly as they both continued to walk.

[PopeAlessandros]

Prepared best he can for the sickening swirl of colors Seishu relaxes so her can close his eyes, just waiting for the rushing to stop. Once on the other side he spies Hops rushing forward and is almost ready to bite his tongue over whatever the bunny has to say about his current state, but instead he feels a little shocked as a warm furry arm slips under his free arm and across his back , helping to keep the Nightmare Guardian vertical as Enasi helps him along. 'Wow Hops, didn't know you had it in you' Still in too much pain to act very rationally he growls low, keeping his lips shut as to not sap at anybody. As soon as they are away from the constant pounding of positive energy Seishu lets out a long breath, the reduction in pain clearing his head up a little.

As soon as they enter the room he's spent most of his stay in the Dream Realm in the long haired male looks to Enasi's waist, to where there is still a full set of syringes, and as they carefully help him into the bed he slips one of the pain killers out of the belt and hides it beneath his pillow. Enasi doesn't seem to notice and he's glad because moments later Harper calls him away and he's left alone with the small ball of droopy sadness that is Rue. Looking over to the teary eyed minion Seishu feels his anger building and contemplates taking his shot before addressing the fairy, but then those eyes turn to him and something inside him snaps.

“Are you trying to be the biggest moron in existence, or does it just come to you naturally?” His voice spears out like a lance, striking to the very heart of the little dream minion. The words make him hiccup, his body falling backwards to the very end of the bed as tears begin pouring out like all the world is weeping. Seishu does not raise his voice, but his words are pure venom. “Not only did you betray you lord's orders, broken his trust for all I know, you've put so many lives into danger I'm surprised that you're able to even think to look me, or Enasi in the eyes for the matter! Or did you have some kind of death wish? If so, come over here now, I'll oblige you!” His eyes glance over at the scar now donning the boy's arm and knows that it's time to stop, but his lips work faster than his brain sometimes.

“That last thing we needed at a time like this was a clash between the realms, and guess what, that's exactly what you arranged by being so absolutely foolish.” Rue slowly seems to break on the spot, unable to back away from Seishu because of the weakness in his limbs caused by one he admires so much tearing into him like snake venom, compounded by the fact that he was already crushed by his own guardian refusing to speak with him. “I saw all those injuries out there, and you are the cause of them. You Rue, you made them all hurt so much. I can still feel it from here. And let me guess, you think we should all forgive you just because you're cute and you didn't mean for it to happen? Is that it!?” Rue shakes his head, his entire body trembling as both hands ball into little fists, coming up to cover his mouth as more and more sobs find their way out.

The shear amount of sadness, pain, and self loathing coming from the little creature is enough to spark Seishu's self control and in one swift motion he pulls out the syringe, pulls the plastic cover off the needle, and sinks it into his arm. Slamming down the plunger he hisses with the pain of the shot, but after a few seconds he whips the glass across the room and watches as Rue jerks at the sound of it shattering. The calm is relatively slow in coming to Seishu, for he really is upset with the Little Bite, but when at last he looks up to the tear soaked minion his eyes have changed from those of a killer to the relaxed stare that Rue has grown to recognize.

Still wracked with sobs Rue stares at the guardian, and Seishu knows he has to do something. 'I also know I'm going to regret what I'm about to do next, but it'll be worth it in the end' Letting out a long breath he opens his arms carefully, a clear invitation to Rue, and the strength seems to come back to his limbs almost immediately as his hands fall to the bed and he crawls over to the guardian. So much is his pain right now that he doesn't think, crawling right over Seishu's injured legs so he can lay atop the guardian, his little face buried in the crook of Seishu's pale neck. The shot allows Seishu to keep his cool with the weight of Rue pressing into his sore front, and even allows him to wrap his arms around the small sobbing creature. Shushing his lightly he murmurs, “Hush now Little Bite. You know I would never kill you. You've made your mistake, and as far as I'm concerned you just paid for it. Thanks for sticking around my evil little self.” Rue's voice is too sore to reply properly but a light half laugh finds it's way out, his face still pressed firmly against the injured man, his little arms clutched between their bodies.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi walked into the room. While he was talking to Harper, he could feel the intense emotion from the both of them, but he forced himself to ignore it. It died down around the time he had finished talking to Harper, so he sighed, only imagining what was happening. Opening the door, he saw Rue cuddled up to Seishu, biting back tears, occasionally sniffling. It seemed Seishu had forgiven Rue for his actions, and it felt like Rue had cried his heart out.

At least Enasi thought he couldn't produce more tears. He wasn't even fully in the door when Rue tackle hugged him, standing on his own two feet for once. He didn't try to fly up to meet him eye to eye. Rue stayed at ground level, looking up at the guardian with fresh tears. "Lord Enasi! Please, please, please forgive me!" Before Enasi could say anything, Rue began pouring his apologies out from his heart, burying his face into his guardian. "I didn't mean to. I really am so sorry, please forgive me!" His voice broke in between sobs and he only held tight to Enasi, refusing to let go until he spoke to him.

Enasi could feel his own heart breaking at the sad little ball of energy. There was no way he could ignore those eyes and tears. His 'motherly' instincts made him drop to his knees amd hug the poor fairy kid. "Rue you scared me half to death! Why would you do something so stupid!  You started a lot of mess!" Rue apologized more through tears. "But, I'm guessing you learned your lesson... So I forgive you... But this doesn't let you off the hook."

Rue was just ecstatic to know he was forgiven. He hugged and stayed with Lord Enasi as he moved to the rolling chair he normally sat in. He had already gotten Seishu to forgive him, but Lord Enasi was still his guardian and he didn't want to move from his side at that point. "Are you okay Seishu?" Enasi decided to ask, patting Rue's head gently.

^^^^^^^
"You're slacking Harper. Don't tell me the fastest rabbit in the Dream Realm is slowing his game?" The two were sharing a lighthearted teasing session as they walked to Seishu's room. It was comforting to be able to joke around even with all the burdens that had been burying the two.

The two made it to the door, both their smiles fading into a more curious look. The atmosphere was emotionally heavy when they walked in. Crios took the belt off of Enasi and examined it. "You used one of the pain killers already?" The question was directed towards Seishu, expecting him to know more about it than his guardian. He had a feeling Lord Enasi wouldn't want to inject him anyway, or he didn't think about it at the time. Harper rubbed his paws together and stood off to the side as he normally did.

[PopeAlessandros]

The little fairy's sobs slow down, turning mostly to hiccups as his tears to seem to be coming to a stop. Seishu lets his hands run down his back, over and over, like one of his own minion children when they are upset. However when he feels his dear counterpart coming closer to the door he lets his hands fall to his side, and he braces himself in anticipation of what he's sure is about to happen. Despite being prepared for it Seishu still lets out a small noise, the air rushing from his lungs as the little minion rockets off him like, well, a rocket, flying across the room to crash into his own Guardian. Hearing the desperate pleading the Nightmare Guardian rolls his eyes but keeps his comments to himself. 'Oh cool it Little Bite, he's going to forgive you. I mean come on, he's willing to forget for a while how many I've killed of his precious little underlings to let me stay here. There's no way he's not going to forgive one of hi own for a stupid mistake, no matter the disastrous consequences'

Turning his attention down to his own body Seishu can see the bruise from Lillium blast already beginning to form over his wrists, and he had no doubt it's going to run up both arms and probably his face and legs. His block had, for the most part, saved his chest and other important parts of his body, so he is in no real danger at the moment, but the soreness sin his face makes him groan. 'Enasi, let's sleep, right now. Let's sleep until this is all healed so I don't have to see this face of mine. . . .' Knowing his thoughts are running a little vain he groans again and lets out a sigh, covering his eyes with an arm.

At the sound of Enasi's voice his head turns, still hidden mostly beneath his arm, but with one eye he can see him patting the boy's head like a good little puppy. “Oh good, you kissed and made up, and I managed to miss the whole thing. My day is looking up!” Rue manages a giggle at the pointed joke, shifting even closer to Enasi if that's even possible. Seishu rolls his eye and turns his head back to the ceiling, his arm blocking out the world for a few more blissful moments before the door opens and his peace is shattered. His arm drop back to his side and he watches Crios examine the belt. Without looking at his other half he nods. “Yeah, hurt like hell to. I think I did it wrong, but it's working so, meh.” He looks to Rue for a moment, then back to the doctor. Crios follows the movement, but despite his curiosity he decides not to comment.

“I'm sure you did do it wrong, and by that tone in your voice, you're still feeling a lot of pain.” It's not a question and without a word he pulls a second syringe and walks over to the other side of the bed from where Enasi is sitting so he doesn't block the guardians' views of each other. As he sinks the needle in Seishu hisses in pain but Crios ignores it, earning him a little growl that fades quickly. “Can you tell me what you were hit with? If I know I may be able to help better.”

Seishu lets out a sigh as the needle is pulled from his arm. “Lillium fights with compacted air. She hit me with, one of her strongest hits yet. It was very well executed.” Both Crios and Harper look at him with differing levels of amazement and confusion as he praises her attack on her guardian. He ignores them, knowing they wouldn't understand. “She wraps her energy around the air, drawing it in tight until it's almost dense enough to see, then propels it with a hard strike of her own energy at high speeds. Like a really big invisible punch if you like.” Crios nods after a minute, getting the concept, his mind lacing together ideas of how to help him.

While he's thinking of what to do next, helping Seishu out of his armor and underclothes, Harper steps from the shadows and addresses the Nightmare Guardian. “We've decided on a new system when it come to you Night.” He says, suppressing a cringe as he realizes he' honestly just adopted Crios's nickname for the guardian. Seishu raises and eyebrow in question and he holds up a hand as he notices Rue getting excited. “We just got approval from Lord Enasi to put together your own little team of dream denizens who's task it will be to keep you safe.”

Seishu laughs, stiffed a bit by his skin tight undershirt over his head and the accompanying pain that goes with it. “And how is that suppose to work. It's not like even if you order them to that they'll be able to do the job effectively from a hundred yards away.”

It's then that Rue looks to Harper for permission to explain, the recent events having made the little minion more humble. As the shirt slides off with a sharp gasp from Seishu the rabbit may motions that he's free to speak. Scooting around so he's a little closer to Seishu, but still in contact with Enasi the little fairy pipes up. “This team will be made of people like me, and Crios, and Harper, and Lord Enasi. There has to be more like us around, who don't mind you. . . Well, being you, heh.” It's there that Harper takes over again.

“We've already found a few potential prospects. A couple who were in the clash and who reportedly didn't have a problem defending you when you and your minions flew off to God know where. And I also found a young minion who seems curious about you, almost like Rue was at the beginning.” Crios raises an eyebrow at Harper for not giving him the credit for the plant twins, but has no time to address it as more and more of the purpling flesh is revealed beneath him. As he slowly begins working off Seishu's pants he sees the guardian's hand go up to his mouth where he sinks his fangs so far into a finger that it starts bleeding.

Harper pauses to let his regain himself, a touch of sympathy finding it's way in at the sight now laid out before them. With a hisses breath Seishu pulls his finger from his mouth and looks to the general. “May I assume I get a choice in this, Hops,” he says, emphasizing the creature's nickname, “or are you going all master and commander on me?”

Even Harper can tell he's teasing now, masking a legitimate question. “I assume that you'll meet with each candidate and yes, I'm sure if they don't pass your approval that they will not be assigned to you. I can't see you pulling up with beings you don't see as worthy of the task of defending you oh great pain in the backside.” Seishu chuckles at the reply but otherwise stays silent, the air on his wounds almost worse than his tight clothing.

Crios motions to his last bit of clothing, some boxers he'd thought to add to his outfit in case something like this happened again, but Seishu shakes his head. “Nah Doc. I made sure to protect my jewels. Can't have that out of order no matter the situation, and with that blow I may have just lost them there on the spot. Lillium has never been big on holding back from striking where it hurts if you know what I mean.” Crios rolls his eyes and finishes compiling the list of salves and other things he thinks he'll need. Leaving Seishu there on the bed he excuses himself to go get what he needs.

____*____

With a loud bang the door to the infirmary crashes open. The staff all turn to the noise, but quickly continue with their work as Gin charges through them like a thunderstorm. His footsteps seem to almost crackle as he moves swiftly from bed to bed, seeking out the specific minion he's looking for. When at last he spots the tell tale spikes of a Dread Slayer he pushes past the medics surrounding her and looks down upon the sight that greets him. The doctors have managed to stop the bleeding but it's obvious from the blood soaked armor and sheets that she's lost a lot of it. “Excuse me sir.” A minotaur looking doctor, a good two heads taller than Gin, pushes past him and another doctor to lean in with some static energy.

The charge of it pulls a scream from the girl and Gin can feel his anger boiling. “When will she be ready!? I need this minion to answer some questions, there are these ridiculous rumors flying about and I-” He's cut off by another doctor, a fairly simply looking minion with red hair chimes in.

“Forgive me sir but she may not survive the next two minutes if you don't let us do our work. She lost a lot of blood, and her system seems to be in shock for more than one reason.” The minion looks away from Gin quickly and he fumes, unsure what he wants more, the information from Lillium, or to take off the head of this impertinent minion.

_*_*_*_*_

Filo and Feena race through the forest at top speed, missing branches and trees that would tear their wings out at that speed should they mess up and strike them. However the two are expert fliers and while Feena isn't as maneuverable as her brother she has no problem following the well flown aerial path through the dark foliage. They bank hard past a man eating three, almost giggling at it once again reaches out to try and snag them as they pass like always. The nightmare realm can be a very dangerous place, even for it's own denizens, unless one knows where to avoid or are traveling with the guardian himself.

With a sudden snap of wings the come to an abrupt halt. From the trees eyes look out at them and they wait patiently for the okay to continue. A long tentacle arm slithers out from behind some branches and motions that they are free to go. Their faces are well known enough around camp that further inspection is unnecessary. With a nod they strike out once more, slowing down quite a bit as they do not want to run into any other airborne minions on their way into camp. As soon as they break into the open area they spot Kaila in the distance, attending to some injured minions and they both drop low to the ground for the rest of the trip to his side. Snapping her wings out to break they watch as the sound draws their temporary leader's attention and as they finally make touchdown Kaila stands and looks to them with a questioning stare.

[AkiBlue]

Almost as soon as feet touched the ground, both give a salute and begin speaking. Filo is the first to start by saying, "The Dream Guardian is protrcting him. Seishu is alive, but he's not looking too well. He needs all the negative energy he csn get... But being stuck in the Dream Realm myst be sickening for him!" Filo shuddered at the thought of being trapped in that overly positive realm. "Poor Seishu..." He mumbled as Feena took over.

"Also, before we forget! Master Seishu told us to tell you~ 'tell Kaila when we see you that if you doesn't survive this he's gonna kick your ass... got it?” Feena grinned, repeating their guardian word for word. "Basically, we came to report that our guardian is still fighting." She earned a nod from her brother and they both looked around towards the injured. "We also told him what has been going, bringing him up to date." Kaila listened intently to the two messengers, sighing in relief when they said Seishu was still alive. Of course, he wasn't too happy with leaving his Guardian in the bright realm. He was probably healing terribly.

"Poor Master Seishu..." Kaila shook his head and turned to continue helping the injured. "You two stay hidden for now. After the commotion, Gin probably has some of the minions finding the "traitors". It's best to lay low as of now. We'll try to figure out how to get him some help." The twins nodded and went off to see if they could help the others. Many were injured thanks to their own kind. It was devastating how the realm turned on each other, but Kaila, the twins, and everyone in the camp knew they had to keep fighting. For Master Seishu.

****^^^^^****^^^^^****

The Guardian-to-be growled at the minion who spoke to him. "Respect your leader." He reached for his weapon, but grumbled and turned away. His wild glares made everyone shrink back in fear, or look away. They didn't want to be caught in the cross fire of his anger. They were injured enough and didn't want to face that wrath anymore. Gin's eyes caught sight and locked onto one minion and he stalked over to him.

The minion rubbed his scaled arm and watched Gin. "Who did you fight?"
"Nightmare sir."
"Did you kill them for being traitors?"
This made the lizard minion pause. Kill his own? He could never do that to family. That was just a vicious idea. "No sir, they were subdued though, before they escaped." This earned him narrowed eyes and a step forward.

"You are a traitor as well... If you weren't able to kill the ones who betrayed my loyalty, than you to can die with them." Without warning, Gin stabbed him in the chest, causing the lizard to cry out before falling limp onto the bed.

••••••••••••••••••

Enasi didn't give second thought about the drugs. Crios handled it perfectly, as usual. He sat, letting Rue cuddle up to him like a baby and watched everything take place. Crios is at it again, checking his injurious and stripping Seishu of his armor in order to get to the other wounds. That part made Enasi focus his attention more on Harper as he stood off to the side. He watched the rabbit glance off to the side, noticing how his ears twitched and how he shifted in one spot when he stood for too long.

At the moment,  Enasi was quiet, drifting in and out of his own mind. Everything they were talking about, mainly about Lilium, he was there to see. His focused wandered to how the injured were doing, and wondering what random attack they could prepare for. Gin was being brash about the entire thing. Taking over the nightmare realm and then trying to destroy his. . . Did he not know of balance?

His thoughts were turned to the three explaining the new tactical plan of protecting Seishu. The Guardian continued to stay quiet, listening much more intently. "Of course, Lord Enasi, you'll be able to meet them beforehand as well." Crios added in as Harper and Seishu shared a moment. He was probably going to mess with him later about it. As Crios went to grab supplies,  Harper noticed the tired look in his guardian's eyes. "Maybe you should get some rest sir. You look drained."

Enasi blinked and shook his head. "No, no.  I'm fine. I didn't do much to be tired." Of course his dreams begged to differ.

"You're being awfully humble." Cross stated as he returned and worked on stitching and cleaning Seishu.

"Really. All I did was look for Rue, subdue a nightmare, and help Seishu back home. The dream minions... and the nightmare minions did most of the work out there." He gave credit to the ones that did help them in their time of need. "If it wasn't for them, we'd probably be in a world of trouble." He gave a light shrug and looked down as Rue stared at him skeptically.

"You do look tired Lord Enasi." Rue grinned brightly. "Don't worry, I'm sure Mister Seishu would fall asleep too once Crios is done!" He then came to a realization. "Hey Seishu, you never told me what you were said you were. You know, when Crios and Harper were staring at Lord Enasi.

Crios quickly cleared his throat, and Harper's ears perked a little. "Oh, Lord Enasi, I planned on letting Cho know of his knew duty as Seishu's cook. Did you want to come along?" Harper quickly pulled Enasi out before Seishu could say anything "unwanted". Crios sighed as Enasi followed.

"Oh, um, sure?" He said a little confused, but walked to see Cho. He hadn't shown to his chef in quite some time. It would be nice to see him anyway.

Rue watched him go and tilted his head slightly, but faced Seishu, flying to the end of the bed where he wouldn't get in the way.

[PopeAlessandros]

As the foxy doctor leaves the room Seishu turns his attention to Enasi and his underlings as they try and convince him to go to sleep. He smiles a little as, indeed, Enasi seems to be trying to play everything off as nothing for them to worry about, at last when it come to him. 'So humble you are, my dear flufflord, but what is this? Deflection? A sure sign that you are hiding something! Since you can't outright lie, I guess deflection is the next best thing, huh?' He keeps his eyes trained on the Dream Guardian even as Crios returns and begins working on his damaged flesh. He hisses, mostly ignoring the rest, that is until Rue give him the opportunity to smirk over at Enasi with an honest feeling of wickedness. He knows better than to actually tell Enasi right now, and he doubts there will ever be an actual time to say it, but it doesn't stop him from chuckling as his general practically rushes him out the door.

Crios resists glaring at the little minion over the sudden question. 'He's still recovering from his blunder, most likely the cause of a lot of that heavy atmosphere from before, and after that self scarification I can't bring myself to be angry at him any more' Opening the last salve he begins mixing it in with the rest, the chemical reactions creating a pleasing mint smell to permeate the air. Out of the corner of his eye he watches the fairy flutter closer, and the look in Seishu's eyes has him a little worried.

Reaching a hand up he motions the minion down to sit next to him and without question Rue flutters down, landing as gently as possible on the opposite side of the guardian than Crios. The doctor continues mixing as Rue scoots in close so Seishu doesn't have to speak up. “Well, Little Bite, earlier Doc here ask me a question about what my intentions towards Enasi are.” Rue glances at Crios, noting the light flush running up the back of his neck. His eyes come back to Seishu as he continues. “Well, I told the truth. That all I really want from him is what he's willing to give. After all, here in this reality, balance must be maintained, and we tend to make each other sick when our energy it too high, so it's not like any of my teasing is going to get anywhere.” Rue looks sad at those words but the guardian smiles, making his look turn curious.

Crios can see what's coming and asks him to wait a moment. When Seishu looks to him with a disgruntled expression he holds up a hand for peace. “I know you can't wait to say it, but you don't wanna interrupt the news with your pitiful gasps and whines now do you Night?” Seishu grumbles but falls silent and Rue can feel himself almost ready to explode. The answer is right there, and it's obvious the others think is something special and important, he can feel his teeth wiggling in anticipation. However recent events have humbled him a little and instead of whining like he normally would he settles back on his behind and clasps his hands in front of him. Crios sees his self control and smiles before scooping up a handful of his mixture and setting to work.

Crios was right, as soon as the cream touches him Seishu takes a tight hold of the bed and his mouth opens in silent pain. Rue back up automatically but Seishu has very little energy as it is and he uses all his strength to keep it from leaking out. Crios works quickly, the process taking less than a minute to cover his entire front, but by the time he's done Seishu has managed to sink his nails into the mattress. Rue stares at the new little holes but doesn't comment as he moves back in once it looks safe. Crios gives him a nod and he begins cleaning up, careful to not look as Seishu as he continues his story. At first his voice is rather breathy and he sound sort of winded.

“What had them so shocked though, was what I sad about our shared world. The one we visit when we sleep. There, it's very different.” The guardian's body relaxes a bit and he's able to talk more freely after a few short breaths. His eyes become very soft and Crios glances over to watch him speak. “In that place, things are so different Rue. I think the me that's there is so very different from me in some ways.” His smile curls a little at one corner of his mouth. Looking deep into Rue's eyes he whispers, “When we're there, I truly believe that that other me is in love with him. In love with Enasi. . .” He lets his words taper off, watching the little minion's reaction.

At first Rue is confused, trying to figure out how a person could be two people, but then his final confession sinks in and his eye grow incredibly wide. He does not even question if Seishu is joking, having been around him so long he can just tell that the guardian is serious. Instead he asks a question that nearly floors Crios on the spot. “Are you gonna tell him Mister Seishu? You know, in that world, where you can be together?” The fox doctor keeps himself from falling over, but he can not help but splutter a bit before asking a question of his own.

“Is that all you have to say? Rue, they are not even suppose to occupy the same space for longer than a once a millennium battle that last only a few hours, and all you can ask is if he's going to make it official with our lord?” His vice slowly climbs but after a few seconds Rue looks up at Crios. The look on his face brings the doctor up short and he follows the smaller minion's gaze as it returns to Seishu. For only a brief instant he sees what had made Rue look so lost and sad. Even through his smile Crios could see how much pain the question followed by Crios's monolog had caused. Crios bites his lip, simply looking at the guardian. 'It must be so hard to be so alone. I guess there really is only one option for him as a person to love, and I hate to be right when I say it can never be' A moment later Seishu closes his eyes and lets out a sigh.

“Nah, Rue, I don't think that would be a good idea.” Rue opens his mouth to try and console him but in that moment his eyes open again and there is a gleam of mischief in them. “However that isn't going to stop me from having fun while I can. Don't worry though, I'll try not to leave him any worse off than when I found him, heh.” Rue remains silent but shuffles down next to Seishu. He guardian lifts his arm so Rue can rest on his shoulder, one of the few places free of bruise on his arm, and with one small hand resting on Seishu's chest Rue falls asleep, a light sigh on his lips.

Crios however continues to stare at the guardian, something inside him battling like two rats in a small cage with only one bit of food. 'It's good he knows that they can never go anywhere, but it's like killing a romance before ever giving it a chance. He's had his heart broken without ever having actually been in the relationship. Somehow, I never even stopped to think about such things. I mean, he's obviously had sex before, but it's also obvious that it was just sex. I was afraid that that is what he'd do with Lord Enasi, leaving our guardian heartbroken like all those “Love'em and leave'em” humans, but now. . . .Enasi himself may never have anything more than a steady partner here in the dream realm, if he ever falls in love at all, he so busy all the time. But now that I think about it, Lord Enasi is most likely as alone as Night. . .' His emotions continue to rage but as a raised eyebrow from Seishu he bows, gathering up his things before leaving the room. As soon as he's out of view the guardian sighs softly, letting the darkness take him, and praying that Enasi will take his underlings' advice and hit the hay soon.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi followed Harper, wondering what got the male so jumpy. "So? Harper?" The rabbit looked back, realizing Lord Enasi was walking a tad slower than a regular pace. 'He must be really tired and not even realize it. It seems he's like on autopilot right now. It took a few seconds,  but it then registered to the guardian that he was acknowledged with a look. "Oh. I just wanted to know what that was about? With Rue asking a question,  and me being hurried out to see Cho?"

He watched as his ears twitch and he glances at the Dream Guardian. Not wanting to lie to his guardian, he tried a different approach to the matter. "The events in there don't parallel to the importance of assigning Cho his job. But, you being with me marks it as a sign of approval. By all means I can reassure you that you can sleep sir, and talk to Cho later.

"I'm fine." Was the only response he could give without telling a direct lie. He was fine. No injuries, and he was at a somewhat stable mindset. That wasn't too shabby for the normally overly worried guardian. Harper merely sighed and continued leading the way. The walk took a long time, considering it was on the other side of the building. The longer the two walked in silence, the more Enasi tried to stifle yawns, only encouraging Harper's silence.

But from quiet to chipper and loud, Enasi did wake a little more. "Oh, wonderful to see you Lord Enasi, and nice to see you as well Harper." Harper nodded his greeting and Enasi smiled and waved. He would have hugged the chef, but he was holding a tray of cookies. "What brings you two to my side of town?" Cho chuckled, handing the tray off to a minion as she walked past. He was looking at Lord Enasi when he asked this question, but raised an eyebrow when he gestured to Harper.

Harper then nodded and moved away from the busy kitchen so it was a lot more private to speak. "I, Crios, Rue, and of course Lord Enasi, need you to cater to Seishu's meals. We have pegged you add not only one of the most loyal to Lord Enasi, but also someone who doesn't seem to mind Seishu's behavior- enough to tolerate him at least." Enasi slumped into a chair near them amd listened quietly. Cho mulled over the idea for a short amount of time before nodding in agreement.

"If Lord Enasi wants it, then sure. I'm be happy to give him a decent meal." That's when he glanced over, noticing their dream guardian dozing off. It was too late to miss, and both chef and guard watched for a moment. "Is he alright?" Cho held concern in his tone and looked over at Harper. The rabbit nodded and walked over to Lord Enasi, who had somehow made himself comfortable in the plush chair.

"He's just tired. He's been working non stop and refuses to sleep. This is the outcome. But, that was all Cho. I appreciate your cooperation. " Cho nodded and went off With a sigh, Harper proceeded to lift the guardian with ease and walk to his room. He noticed that weird energy didn't leak off him this time, so he assumed Seishu had yet to fall asleep. That's how it seemed for a short while. But the longer he walked, letting the guardian snuggle to his fur quite embarrassingly, the more he felt the energy increase. 'Well, at least you won't be alone. Harper thought with a sigh and eventually came to Lord Enasi's room to put him in bed. Walking out, he went where he was needed.

****~~~~~****~~~~****

Enasi fell into the darkness, looking around with a mental sigh. He was sure he could have avoided sleep. Positive! Unfortunately, that was not achieved. Though, this time in the darkness, not quite a dream yet, Enasi stood looking for Seishu. Normally, Seishu was always the one to find him because Enasi would always wait around,  but this time, Enasi was feeling a little curious.

[PopeAlessandros]

~The faint tug on his hand tells him that Enasi is ready now and without hesitation he starts off towards the pull.

I wonder what it will be this time.

After what Rue said, I was a little worried, but I feel better now

He moves faster and faster until a familiar figure appears far in the distance. He slows, watching closely.

He's looking around.

I wonder what he's looking for.

Is it me?

Or is it what is going to appear this time?

The thought of Enasi looking for him brings a slow smile to his lips and he closes his eyes, almost as if he's praying. Which is close to what he's up to. Deep inside he begs for something. Something specific to fit the mood around them. Something that will let their curiosity be fed. With a great groan of stressed wood his prayer is answered. In a rush huge trees begin erupting from the ground. Each one is as tall as a skyscraper, their canopies high overhead. The lower branches are covered in dense foliage, but they are few in number, far apart from one another. All along the surface however are perfectly shaped little hand and footholds, making them look easy to climb.

Looking towards Enasi he catches his eye for only a moment before another tree erupts from the ground, obscuring him from view. The ground becomes soft and sponge like, a thick layer of moss appearing like a cushion beneath their feet.

In case Enasi falls I suppose.

It will make him feel safer.

Around each tree a thick layer of underbrush appears, easy for hiding in, and as a final touch, fairy lights begin dancing through the now vast forest to keep it from being too dark.

Perfect.

Sensing where Enasi is he moves away a bit and stands with his back against a tree. Not sure how the Dreams play the game, Seishu decides to start it off the only way he knows how.

“Poor little sparkler,
lost in the forest,
oh where can you be?

The wolves are getting hungry.
On your bones they will feed.

Flee little sparkler
hide high or low
keep yourself hidden now
the wolf is on the prowl.”

The little song carries well through the area, settling softly on Enasi's ears like a pleasant echo. As soon as it's over though, Seishu begins counting. “One. . .Two. . .Three. . .Four. . .” These sounds too carry well and Seishu continues to count with a soft smile on his lips.~

[AkiBlue]

The farther he walked, the more he could feel and hear. But it was only the sound of his footsteps, and the feeling of a gentle breeze every now and then from a nonexistent force. The area was still black and empty, and Seishu was nowhere in sight.

And suddenly, a low rumble made Enasi step back. His head tilted in curiosity, awaiting for the world to form. And it did. In the shape of a vast amount of thick trees, way too tall and numerous to see the sky above.

'A forest? Do I follow the twinkling lights?'

That was answered when the lights disperesed from the little path they created. His eyes fell from the pretty lights to catch a glimpse of the white haired male a few ways away. But just as he saw him, a tree grew in between them and Seishu vanished.

"Seishu?" His voice seemed to linger and echo through the trees as he called out to him.

The Dream Guardian walked forward, starting to search for him, knowing for sure that he had just been a few feet away. His searching stopped abruptly as he heard that familiar voice.

A song?

His eyebrow raised as he carefully listened to the words. Seishu wanted him to hide... Hide in the trees. A small smile formed on the male's lips. It was a game. Hide and seek to be exact! He used to play with the younger dreams, playing hide and seek through the castle or through the forests. He bounced on his toes and ran the opposite way of the song, moving farther away from Seishu. His little song was much more fitting for his realm of nightmares, but at the time, it didn't matter to Enasu.

Deeper and deeper into the forest he went occasionally having to climb over branches and roots, staying silent and staying low, careful not to make a sound. If he was caught, as Seishu sang, a wolf would surely attack. And he didn't want that to happen. When he slowed down, the tingling sensation in his hand rose, indicating the two were farther away than normal, being a helpful hint in the dense forest.

Enasi smiled, hiding in the foilage, staying low to the ground.

[PopeAlessandros]

~“Nine. . . . .Ten!” Half way through his count Seishu had felt a little pill on his hand and he could not help smiling at the time.

Way to let me know where you are.

Silly Enasi.

His count complete now, the Nightmare Guardian begins moving slowly through the foliage at the base of the tree. In between each tree and the undergrowth around them the space is fairly wide. The open space makes travel rather easy and for a while Seishu runs towards Enasi on foot.

The wolf is going to get you.

I wonder if you'll mind.

Shaking off the thought the long haired male launches himself up into the nearest tree. Moving at speed he makes his way to the lowest branch and runs along it's length. As soon as he reaches near the end he launches himself like a squirrel across the space to a branch on the next tree.

He's not too far now.

Sure enough, after a few more trees he catches sight of a little red head tucked beneath a bush.

Found you.

All around the fairy lights continue to dance, the breeze rustling the leaves masking Seishu's movements. Crawling carefully along he manages to get to the tree nearest to the Dream Guardian without being spotted. His muscles relax as he takes a moment to simply look at the male. His hair ruffles in the breeze, his clothing clinging to him here and there as he tries to remain hidden.

'He recognized the game at least.

You look beautiful down there like that.

But you are about to look even more so.

Waiting for the wind to pick up again he shifts and at the perfect moment he drops down from the tree. Gently he tackles the hidden guardian, rolling them around until he sits astride the other at his waist, his arms pinned to either side of his head by Seishu's. He stares down at his prize, his gaze very much like that of a hungry wolf's. “Found you. . .” he murmur softly. The gleam in his eye sharpens as his eyes narrow. His body moves gently over Enasi's, shifting lower as he leans down towards the other's face. At the last moment he aims lower and with a light growl he take hold of the front of Enasi's throat with his teeth. Careful to keep his fangs from actually harming the trapped guardian his tongue snakes out to lick gently across the hollow column of his throat before he sits up, releasing his prize.

One hand comes up and he rubs a thumb across the bottom of his lips before licking it gently like he's cleaning it. “Consider yourself eaten. You turn!” he chirps out jovially and bounces up. Not wanting to really stick around for the fallout after his little indulgence he immediately bolts. Careful to not go too far he picks a tree and climbs up to the bottom edge of the canopy.

At the right angle he should be able to see me, but I will most definitely be able to see him coming.

His head hangs a little, a faint touch of despair fleeting through him.

I wonder if he's mad.

I suppose it's better than never having anything.

Even if he ends up hating me for it.

Letting out a long sigh the despair vanishes and his head returns to the game at hand.~

[AkiBlue]

The tingling in his hamd stopped after awhile. The thought of him getting closer made him shift in anticipation. If he was able to catch him before it was the other way around, Enasi could slip away to another hiding spot.

But that was not the case.

"Oof!" Enasi let out a gaspy breath as he was tackled and as he tumbled under over and then under Seishu. "Darn." He breathed, not really minding the tackle. His minions had done it all the time in the game. Although, being pinned wasn't a normality. Yet, for some reason. . . Enasi couldn't look away from those eyes Seishu gave.

The next moment had Enasi tense and turn his head, only to be surprised by the sudden bite on his neck. It didn't hurt, but it did surprise a light blush from him. And the blush only got worse when he was licked. But unlike most times with him fighting back or trying to escape, Enasi actually lifted his head ever so slightly. . . as if he wanted him to continue.

His cheeks were probably as red as his hair when he realized what he did. A heavy sigh from Seishu leaving replaced the possibilities of squeaking out or stammering if he tried to talk.

My turn. . .?

For a moment he had completely forgot about the game, too delved into what had happened.

Did I really. . . But I don't think-

He realized Seishu wasn't far, so his mindless wandering would probably move him away from his target. Rubbing his neck lightly, he decided to focus on the game.

"If I were Seishu, where would I be?
Hmm, probably high up in the trees~"

He smiled towards the little rhyme and continued, adding a slight sing song tone in his voice.

"Not way down low where all the plants grow, but up in the trees..."

He stopped, looking around up in the trees for the nightmare. Walking, he was sure he caught a glimpse of white hair. There was no mistaking it for the twinkly lights. "I wonder..." He mumbled to himself and walked along another tree, getting closer to the one Seishu was in. He couldn't see him at first, making him pout like a child, so he circled around the area until-

"Ah! There you are! The wolf has been found." His eyes brighten in triumph and he waits for Seishu- obviously not planning to pounce him.

[AkiBlue]

Pope
~Seishu listens to the softly spoken words, the magic of the place allowing them to carry better than any other sound.

I guess it's to help us play.

We can hear words, but our sounds remain quiet.

As soon as Enasi comes into view he settles down into a crouch, the wind catching his hair slightly. It's obvious by the Dream Guardian's movements that he saw the motion, but Seishu stays still, a hunch playing in the back of his mind. His hunch is confirmed when Enasi calls out to him and with a wicked chuckle he stands.

Turning he steps off the branch. It's a strait shot to the ground and just as he looks like he's going to crash into the moss his wings snap out for a split second. The moment slows him enough so that when he lands he doesn't have to even bend his knees. The wings vanish a moment later and he turns to Enasi, the hungry look still in his eyes. “Ah ah, little sparkler, that's not how the game is played.” He begins stalking slowly forward, a smirk on his lips, the look in his eyes very intense.

“In Hunter and Hunted, you have to capture your prey. If you can catch them by surprise, the prey can fight back.” He chuckles softly. “Of course here I wouldn't dream of fighting, but there are other ways to subdue a person, no?” He pauses, a few paces away from Enasi. “So, what will it be? Shall I hide again, or do you think you can pin me? The round isn't over until one of us is. . .eaten.” He decides to leave out the part where his kind actually bite one another during this game, the round over at first blood.~

~~~

Enasi watched as his counterpart floated down to the ground. "What are you talking about? You've been found." The look of triumph faded slightly and changed into one more of question.

The predator look in his eyes made Enasi step back, as he stepped forward. "Hunter and Hunted?" He echoed, his eyes widening a little at the thought of actually having to catch Seishu.

Subdue? ...Like how he pinned me?

"Oh... Well," Even Enasi knew he probably wouldn't be able to pin him while he wasn't posting attention. "Hide again. I'll try once more." He said, mainly to get out of trying to pin him on the spot.

~~~

~Seishu chuckles lightly, taking the last few steps so he's right in front of Enasi. Leaning in close he whispers softly, “Don't forget the bite, mister hunter.” And with that he's off. Bent low he races through the trees, looking very much like an anime ninja as he leaps up to kick off trees, leaping branch to branch, until at last he settles into one. Pulling up his hair he ties it up into a fancy knot on the back of his head before stretching out on his stomach atop the branch. Covered on all sides by leaves, he peeks out from the ones at the end to keep and eye out for Enasi.

I wonder if he can go through with it.

If he chickens out, should I let him?

Or should I eat him instead?~

~~~

"B-Bite?" He stammered, watching him go.

I have to bite him?

Attacking him was one thing, but he wasn't so sure that he could go through with biting him. Enasi counted to ten, waited a few more seconds, and then went off to be the 'the hunter'.

It was much different than before. He assumed he could get away with the wandering around and just calling to Seishu. Not this time. This time, he had to stay quiet, and search around. It was kind of interesting to be so focused on his surroundings, and being so keen to his senses. It was almost as if he was tapping into those primal instincts he had.

Enasi still assumed Seishu would hide in the trees, so he stayed under things as he searched, trying to avoid being seen too much.

And even still, he wasn't too sure about biting him.

~~~

~A slow smile spread across his lips as he senses a shift in the energy around him.

I wonder if he's figure out we make more energy the closer we are together.

If he gets close enough to this tree he should sense me.

If he's stealthy enough, I'll even let him launch an attack

He giggles lightly, his voice carrying on his wind, but Enasi isn't in sight yet. He'll not be able to pinpoint where the giggle came from. However moments later Enasi appears and Seishu slows his breathing. He is the master of this game back home, but in this world the energy takes away most of his advantage.

He won't be able to pinpoint me with it.

However if he notices it, he'll be able to figure out the general area

He knows that even not in this world, they are equal in strength, energy wise, but Enasi has always been physically stronger. If he can get a good enough hold, he really can pin Seishu, even if it is only for a few seconds until Seishu uses his flexibility to slither away.

~~~

Enasi slows to a stop as he pays attention to the energy shifts.

Hm, I don't think I paid much attention to that before.

Seishu was close by, the energy helped him realize that. But where specifically, Enasi had to find out on his own. A thought occurred to him as he hid himself from view once more. He had the feeling that Seishu was probably watching him.

How am I suppose to pin him if he's in a tree?

He pictured the two might have had to take a dive onto the ground. Luckily, it was pretty soft. Well, what was there to lose?

From his hiding spot, Enasi looks up, grinning when he spots Seishu laying in hiding. He was out of view from the male, so he stealthily snuck off to climb up one of the trees. There were a lot of things he was learning he could do at the time. Like be sneaky...and climb trees with ease.

By now, Seishu probably spotted him climbing up. But then, it was probably too late when Enasi jumped off the sturdy branch, only to knock Seishu off his own. Even with the 'dangerous' feat, the dream guardian couldn't help but giggle lightly.

And when they landed, Enasi managed to pin him down.

~ ~ ~

Seishu suppresses a purr, keeping it in his chest when Enasi ducks out of view. His eyes remain locked on the other guardian’s location until he gets above the level of his branch. Turning his eyes back forward he lets out a little sigh and relaxes his muscles.

Come get me.

An instant later he's roughly pulled/tackled off the branch and he lets out a little laugh as they go tumbling to the ground. It doesn't take long for Enasi to get atop him, pinning his hands down much as he did you the Dream Guardian not too long ago. His toothy smile slides closed, looking a lot like the cat who got the cream. Letting out a breathing sound through barely opened lips his tips his head back ever so slowly, exposing his throat.

Come little hunter.

Can you do it?

Kill with the first try, or I'll eat you up

~~~

Enasi's grip stayed firm around Seishu's wrists, just in case he attempted to escape. He didn't say a word, only watching as Seishu smiles and stares up at him. He could tell he was waiting. And it only showed when he lifted his head.

And to surprise himself, Enasi actually found himself wanting to bite him. The idea of it came out of nowhere, and it made him loosen his grip.

What am I thinking?

He looked away for a brief second, thinking it over. He sighed softly and decided,

Why not...

In the dream, weren't they able to what they wanted? Enasi leaned down, and hesitantly moved closer. Closing his eyes, he sighed softly and bit Seishu, just as lightly as he was bitten. Whether he showed it or not, Enasi knew to be careful of the fangs he had.

The bite lasted for longer than he even expected before Enasi pulled away and let go of Seishu, now wondering what would happen next. When he sat up and moved off him, a slight blush dusted his cheeks.. but that was probably easy to guess.

~~~

A thrill runs through his body as he feels the grip in his wrists loosen. He can feel his body warming pleasantly as the man above him shifts. Enasi lets out a little sigh just above his throat and Seishu echoes the sound an instant later as that warm mouth closes over his pale throat.

The scrape of your teeth, so soft.

Those little fangs, biting down so gently.

Good little hunter'

A firm purr sets up in his chest as Enasi pulls back, the bite having lingered longer than he expected. His head tilts back down and he watches with his eyes nearly closed as Enasi moves off of him. The purr continues as he sits up slowly, watching his counterpart. A hand comes up to brush aside some burgundy hair, making it easier to see the blush on the Dream Guardian’s cheeks. As his fingers move softly down to one cheek he murmurs, “Tie breaker round. We are both the hunters this time, starting from the ends of our symbol leashes, but this time. . .” his hand slides down to grip Enasi's hand, pulling to his feet as Seishu himself stands.

Keeping his grip on the other male's hand he makes sure that he's looking into his eyes before finishing. “Instead of a bite, the one who gets pinned has to let the one pinning them kiss them, however they like, without complaining.” He knows his challenge is beyond childish, but still he can not help buy try and feed his new obsession.

A kiss isn't too bad, right?

He'll think it's just to tease him.

It's not like I'm telling him how I feel.

It's just a game, right?

Instead of running this time, he holds the other's hand, waiting patiently. He doesn't want to force him into it. He wants Enasi to accept it willingly. If he doesn't accept, then he'll let it go, and call the game to a close with them tied.

~~~

He listened to the purrs, and allowed the caresses against his cheek. Enasi still didn't think he would do that. When Seishu moved his hand, he found himself rubbing his cheek as if he could rub the blush off. That was one thing he tried so hard to stop doing, but every time he tried, Seishu found a way to get him to blush again.

Standing, Enasi continued to stay quiet, listening closely to the new game. "A tie breaker, alright." It seemed fair enough, but of course, there was a catch. This made his eyebrow raise, and then widen slightly.

A k-kiss?

He's serious- of course he is.

And even with his hand in Seishu's, even with him being nervous and shifting on his feet... the dream guardian accepted. "A-Alright. A tie breaker... it is." He looked down at their hands and slowly let go.

What am I getting myself into...more importantly...why did I accept it so easily?! It's- It's not like I want-

Enasi shook his head and pushed the thoughts aside. And with another slow nod, he agreed.

~~~
The forest is still, not even the faint breeze from before disturbing the tense moment as Seishu waits for his answer. He turns his head ever so slightly, turning so one of his ears can hear better the erratic beating of Enasi's heart. It seems to beat faster and faster, and Seishu can feel his own quickening to match.

And then he accepts. Seishu's purr redoubles for a few seconds, the noise masking his own rapid heart beat and dies down slowly as Enasi lets go of his hand. Despite the new excitement blossoming in him his heart becomes quieter and quieter, his hunter's instincts kicking in. Without another word he takes a few steps backwards, gives Enasi a wink, then turns. He gives his counterpart a single hint as he takes off by literally taking off, his wings snapping out allowing him to fly full speed away from his beloved other half. He keeps flying until he feels the tug. Dropping to the ground, he turns immediately around and begins his hunt.

~~~

The guardian can hear the excitement in Seishu's purrs. It made the guardian shift nervously, so wondering what he was getting himself into. He could hear his heart beating in his ears as he tried to figure out why he had agreed. And like that, Seishu was off, flying through the trees. Enasi watched for a moment, seeing him easily maneuver through the branches. It was a sight to see how his dark wings contrasted with the fairy lights. Enasi shook his head, and looked around. "I can't just stand around... Seishu will easily win that way."

So as Seishu took to the skies, Enasi stayed low to the ground. He feels the tug on his hand, telling him that it was time to turn and let the 'hunt' begin. So he turned, eyeing his surroundings carefully and quietly maneuvered through the trees, looking for Seishu. He had to make sure he stayed hidden since Seishu had an aerial view.

~~~
True to his hint after a few minutes of walking he takes to the sky once more. Drifting around trees slowly he flaps only when he needs to, gliding the rest of the time. Landing gently on a branch he feels the air around him.

I can almost smell him.

He's not too close yet, but he's ready.

His heart beat remains steady as he drifts down to the next branch. His eyes scan the ground carefully, looking for any sign of the other male.

Don't want to find him too quickly.

He'll spot me first most likely.

However he will not strike until he can.

The feeling of his counterpart being nearby grows stronger and his eyes narrow to slits. His breathing is nearly nonexistent as he drifts carefully to a low branch.

Even if he strikes first, he won't want to hurt my wings.

He won't be able to use all his weight.

That kindness is really a weakness.

But I even love that too.

His head tilts this way and that, listening carefully. The breeze has started up again, but Seishu is primed to work in such conditions. He pulls his wings in tight so they don't flap and make it all the more easy for Enasi to spot him.

~~~

Continuing his walk through the forest, he listened to the soft rustle of the trees. Rubbing his symbol-ed hand, he looked around sensing him near.

Now to actually find him...

Enasi peered from his hiding spot to catch of a glance at wings folding in.

Bingo...

But how was he supposed to attack? His wings were out, so he couldn't make him land on his wings... that would probably hurt. Enasi sighed softly, thinking of how to stop him. He could use his own wings, but Enzi knew he couldn't maneuver through the trees like that.

Why must you fly?

Enasi shifted a little out of his hiding spot, moving closer to the tree.
~~~
A slight twitch goes through his body as he hears the soft sigh. A master hunter he now knows exactly where his prey is. He looks in the opposite direction, pretending he heard something and with a light flap he moves on to a tree out of sight of the other guardian.

Get ready little hunter.

It's time for you to fall.

Turning he leaps lightly from the tree, circling around the one closest to Enasi. He smiles wickedly as he comes into view, his back turned. Folding his wings in he dives silently and just above the other he flares them once, slowing only a little, before tackling the Dream Guardian. His wings vanish as he rolls to his back only once, the re-appear as he rolls back to the top, giving him the balance advantage. In less than three seconds, Enasi is pinned. Seishu is wearing his patented smart alec grin as he looks down at his prey.

~~~

He heard the flap of wings and could only prepare for what came next. His grip loosened on the branch, and he braced himself as he was tackled. He managed once to roll and push Seishu under him, but it was only a matter of time before he was pinned once more. He huffed slightly and shook hair out of his face, only to squirm under him ever so slightly.

He looked up at Seishu, watching his arrogant smile. It only made him lay his head back. He knew it would end this way, with Seishu winning. He had more hunting experience than Enasi. All he could do now was wait for him to seal his capture. For some odd reason, Enasi's heart wasn't pounding as much as it did before, as if he had accepted his fate and was going to allow it- but of course the blush on his face said otherwise.

Not knowing what to think, or what to say, Enasi stayed quiet and looked from Seishu to the tree tops.

~~~
The moment is bitter sweet. It's a testament to how strong his feelings are by the fact that this place isn't able to just brush the pain inside away like it normally does. When he first made the little bet he had every intention of giving the other a full on mind blowing kiss, however the ache inside erases such desires from him.

As Enasi gives in, stopping his small try for freedom and looks past Seishu he can feel the burn at the back of his eyes that has become oh so familiar since Gin's betrayal.

I want it. . .

His mind clouds over and slowly, he leans in for his prize. His lips brush ever so gently over Enasi's, the soft feel of them on his own being more painful, overriding the thrill of it. As he pulls back a hot tear falls from his eye on to Enasi's cheek. From behind he can feel the pull and as he gets lifted off the red haired man he has just enough time to reach out and wipe the tear from the other male's cheek before the world slams back in around him.~

As if sensing he's waking up Rue dart off of the bed quickly. Moments later Seishu opens his eyes with a whimper, the pain squeezing the soft sound out of him. However moments later Rue comes to flutter over him. “Mister Seishu, why are you crying? Does it really hurt that bad? I'ma go get Crios!” and at top speed Rue flies off to do exactly that.

Seishu however brings a hand up to touch his cheek. 'Looks like it carried over. . .Idiot' His hand falls back to his side, not bothering to wipe them away.

~~~
Blue
In the kiss, his cheeks darken. It was gentle, much different from what he expected. That grin Seishu continued to give seemed to lead to other intentions so he thought. And the gentle kiss lingered even as he pulled away. It was hard to tell what emotions were going through him at the moment, but the sting of a tear hitting his cheek made him look up in curiosity.

"Seishu?" His voice was barely a whisper, but it was enough for him to be heard. As the guardian wiped his cheek Enasi spoke again. "What's wrong?" He held concern in his voice as he slowly sat up, only to be pulled into the waking realm again.

His finger lightly brushed his lips, almost disbelieving what had happened- even if it was only in the dream. And then his hand rubbed his cheek where the tear fell. "What happened...? Why did he start crying?" The guardian wasn't sure what to do and now that he was in his realm, all those emotions came rushing to him. And all he could do was sigh heavily. He wanted to know what was wrong so he could help, but maybe it was his fault...? What if he did something wrong?

/////

Crios sensed Rue's speedy approach from his office. It was a clear indicator that one or both of the guardians were awake. So, he stood before Rue could get to his door, and walked out. Just as he did, Rue braked in front of him. "Seishu's hurt! But he's crying this time, I think it's really bad!"

Crios nodded and grabbed his supplies and followed as Rue bolted back in order to comfort Seishu. "This couldn't be the wounds... For him to cry? I don't know..." Crios mumbled to himself as he continued to Seishu's room.

[PopeAlessandros]

Laying there is silence Seishu doesn't allow himself to think. He lets the pain wash over him, ripping at any thought that happens across it's path. When it doesn't quite feel like enough he brings his abused finger up to his mouth and bites down on a knuckle. Luckily it doesn't take long for Rue to returns, giving him another distraction. “I'm back Mister Seishu, and Crios will be here soon!” Fluttering in a little closer he notices the low level of energy around the guardian and stays well out of reach. He continues to try and comfort Seishu, and after a few seconds his finger comes out from between his teeth, leaving a small trace of blood behind on his lips. Rue whimpers, the lack of a response from Seishu worrying him more than anything else.

A few seconds later Crios comes in, hurrying to his patient's side. Even down the hall he'd overheard the almost pleading cries of the little fairy, trying desperately to get a response out of the wounded man. However after setting down his kit Crios freezes at the sight if the tears. 'Rue said he was crying, but somehow seeing it. All the times he's cried before he's hidden it from view, or he was only around Lord Enasi' Swallowing he looks up at Seishu's eyes, jumping as he realizes the guardian's staring at him.

Before he can say anything however he whispers softly, “Don't wanna talk 'bout it.” His tone sounds very childish and pouty, but Crios knows better. With a nod he instead administers Seishu's first dose for the day in silence. Rue settles at his side moments later, a little hand snaking out to hold Seishu's shoulder. He too takes the guardian's words very seriously, but in his eyes he's still dying to know what's wrong.

Seishu lets out a long sigh, closing his eyes as Crios begins working on him. “Looking a lot better today, though I think we're on to the yellow stage. So maybe looking isn't the right word for it. You're healing, let's just leave it at that.” Crios begins talking softly, chattering on about this and that, about treatments he plans on trying, about similar injuries he's treated, about how Seishu should stop doing this to himself. However despite his best efforts, Seishu doesn't say another word.

____*____

The war is dark, Gin sitting alone at the Dread Slayer's bedside as patiently as possible. She had been awake for a few minutes a while ago, however she passed out a few seconds later. Gin had been told she awoke, and in his haste didn't ask if she still was. However he doesn't have to wait long, a few sharp breaths from her letting him know she's coming around. He sat with his elbows on his knees, his fingers laced together and pressed against his moth, keeping his expression half hidden.

As soon as her eyes open she spots him and tries to rise. A raised eyebrow is all she needs to see to get her to settle back down. Without prompting she begins giving her report through the pain. “I was hunting in java sector and located a lone minion on the streets. He was weak, and obviously feeling very out of place, a perfect target. However I failed to take into account his speed. He managed to escape into a dream, his speed the fastest I've ever seen, and I entered a while after him. I knew if I could get a clear shot, but for some reason he didn't start altering the dream at all, not even to hive himself better.” She coughs harshly, a bit of blood trickling down from the corner of her mouth.

She heaves a few breaths before plowing on. “I was closing in on it though, when I was interrupted by. . .” She hesitates for only a split second but it is enough to make Gin's eyebrow twitch. “Seishu. He charged into the dream, all bluster, no bite. He was there for the minion. It tried to flee to him, but I caught it. He. . . Got angry, throwing a bolt at me, but I dodged easily, then he started talking. I got so angry, and he was distracted for an instant when something else entered the dream. I managed to hit him full force with a powerful strike, but it didn't kill him.” She hesitates again, watching Gin nervously as he begins to glow in anger. “The thing that entered, was the other guardian, the Dream Guardian Enasi. Two little nightmare minions dragged Seishu out of the dream, I couldn't stop them, nor did I recognize them. I had my eyes on the Guardian.”

As this she nearly turns her eyes away, the rest of the story a blow to her ego to say the least. “I. . . Didn't even get a shot off at the guardian. He bound my arm in his foul energy and it was all I could do to remove it and return here to report to you Sire.” His voice trails off and she waits for her judgment. Gin however stays silent for a very long time, his eyes boring hole in her with their intensity.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi stayed in his room, staring out the window. He wasn't sure how he felt about the kiss. It was meant to tease. The look in his eye, and the grin told him that. But all of a sudden it went downhill so fast. Enasi tried to recall every movement, every gesture, and every word that he made, trying to recall if he had did something to upset him. But Seishu wouldn't cry over Enasi. That was just silly. But what could it have been then?

Enasi decided to spare Seishu the visit, at least until his own mind cleared up. He found his thoughts rolling back to the kiss. As old as they were, it definitely wasn't his first, but the guardian didn't kiss many in his life time. A lot of them were simple kisses on the cheek or on the head. There were two events where minions had gotten overly excited to see him and practically forced him into kisses before. It still solicited a blush of surprise from him, but it was just that. Surprise. There was no deeper emotion he felt with them, but with Seishu. . . Enasi's eyes widened and he jolted up.

'I couldn't possibly have feelings for him!? That's- That's...!?

And just like that, Enasi felt as if he was going crazy. There was no way Seishu felt the same way! There was no way that it would ever work! More importantly, Enasi could have just been going crazy! Maybe the feeling would pass. Maybe he was just over worked and tired. The dream guardian fell back on his bed and put a pillow over his face.

'This wouldn't have happened if I could've just kept peace.
The dream guardian let out a soft whimper of confusion before throwing a pillow over his face. He felt like such a child.

->->->->->

Lilium started to say something else in the intense silence, but upon seeing Gin make eye contact, she silenced herself and laid there.

Gin moved from his position after a long while, sitting up straight. He closed his eyes, heaving a sigh and stood. The male still had a look of frustration on his face as he stared down at Lilium. His hand trailed over his weapon, making the minion tense, although it only caused more pain in her body.

"You've done well. Rest for now child." Lilium's eyes widened a little. She was almost sure he would end her life there. The Dread Slayer sighed silently as he walked away, and rested her head back to let sleep overwhelm her again.
 
He walked away to figure out there next attack. He needed Seishu dead and the man was being stubborn as hell. It made him growl as he walked off. Even if the Guardian was dying, he was dying way too slow.

[PopeAlessandros]

When his morning treatment is finally complete Crios looks to the door, his confusion growing. 'Normally Lord Enasi would be here by now. I wonder what's keeping him. Perhaps he's not awake yet. . . .Meaning he's alone in that nothingness' Looking down at Seishu, who's face is covered with one of Rue's wings while the fairy giggles, fluttering it every time the guardian breaths on it, he chews his lips for a few seconds. Then with a little nod he decides. “So, did Lord Enasi wake up too?” Seishu stills, the very faint smile on his face from Rue's antics fades immediately and he seems to stop breathing then with a shrug he sigh and continues playing with Rue. Rue however looks a little crestfallen and turns around so he can snuggle into Seishu's shoulder.

“I'm going to go check on him then.” the fox doctor replied, packing up his things quickly. He didn't want his lord to spend time in that place if he didn't have to. However when his hand was half way to the doorknob hi freezes a a voice rings out behind him.

“Don't ask unless you really wanna know. . .” Seishu's voice is quite, but his tall pointed ears pick up the hushed comment just fine. He swallows, nodding,then leaves the room.

Rue snuggles up closer, turning so he can look into Seishu's eyes. “Does that apply to me too?” Rue really wants to know what's going on, and the usually talkative guardian being so quite scares him a little.

Seishu looks down at Rue and lets out a sigh. “I'm an idiot.” Rue blinks, his mouth opening to ask what he meant, however Seishu turns away from him so instead of asking he settles back against the Nightmare Guardian and just tries to be as comforting as possible.

[AkiBlue]

Enasi had eventually just crawled under his blanket, laying thereabs waiting for the moment to pass. But even as long as he laid there, the moment didn't pass. The same feelings were still present. 'I should probably get checked to see if I'm sick.' None of the excuses he thought of met reasoning. As a guardian, and one who could easily sense emotions, he knew He just couldn't or didn't want to believe it. Wasn't there enough going on?

While he was in his own mind, he didn't realize Crios approaching until he opened the door ever so quietly. Enasi moved ever so slightly, sensing the worry in his doctor. "Lord Enasi?" His voice was gentle, as if trying not to startle him. The fox watched as the covers shifted and Enasi revealed himself. He gave a soft sigh of relief, knowing that his guardian didn't have to endure the darkness, bit still held worry. "Are you okay sir? I would have normally seen you in Seishu's room by now." Seishu's words echoed in his head, but he decided not to ask anything. . . At least not yet.

"O-Oh I'm. . . Okay. I think." It was really hard for him to lie. So, if was obvious to Crios that something was not okay. "A-Actually. Could you examine me? Just a check up. For the sake of checking is all." He tried to reassure the doctor before he got worked up about nothing- well what Enasi hoped was nothing.

"Of course." Already having his things with him, he went about examining the Dream Guardian. After a few minutes,  Crios shook his head. "You're fine sir. Nothing is wrong." The doctor even looked at Enasi's hand to see the symbol there full and well. The guardian nodded and slowly stood. He wasn't ready to face his counterpart yet, so he decided to walk around the castle to clear his head a little.
Crios gave a worried look as Enasi walked off, and his tail twitched behind him. A small spark flew behind him. Now he really needed to know what happened.

~~~

In the silence, Rue decided to speak softly. "I don't think you're an idiot." He offered before falling silent again and simply cuddling to the Nightmare Guardian.

Harper had went his rounds, checking to make sure any nightmares had slipped through or tried anything else, but all was quiet. So he found himself walking to Seishu's room. His ears were bent, and he had to catch his breath from all that running. When he got inside, he was a little surprised to see only Rue and Seishu. Normally the fox and Ensy were in here as well.

Rue didn't speak, he merely gave a nod before hugging Seishu again. Guardian or not, he could tell something was off abojt Seishu so with a curious tilt of his head, Harper closed the door and leaned against the wall. "What'd I miss this time?" His arms crossed as if he wasn't planning on leaving without an answer. "Surely the all mighty Night hasn't given up now?" He teased, probably to get him back for another time.

[PopeAlessandros]

Seishu rustle up some false bravado. “What, me? Give up? Never!” His voice trails off however, sounding very pathetic even to his own ears. Harper's stance changes slightly, his arms slowly falling to his sides. His ears tilt this way and that, as if he can't believe what he heard. Seeing the motion Seishu lets out a frustrated teenager “Argh!” and ignoring his wound rolls over on to his side, pulling the covers up over his head. To motion causes Rue to fall off the bed, but he catches himself before he hits the ground. Hopping immediately back on to the bed he gently begins rocking the cloth mound that is Seishu.

“Ne, Mister Seishu, you shouldn't do that. Remember Doctor Crios said you should stay on you back for now, ne, Mister Seishu!” Normally such whining would have Seishu shushing the minion at the very least, but instead he remains quietly under the blankets. Harper's eyes narrow in suspicion but he goes back to crossing his arms, waiting for something to happen. He's not as close as the others, and while playful banter is well within his repertoire for the guardian, comforting is well beyond his reach.

~~~~~~~

Crios is determined to get to the bottom of it now, no matter the consequences. Not wanting to disturb his lord any further, the distress rolling off of him making him uncomfortable to say the least, he instead heads back to Seishu's room. Once again while still in the hall, the repetitive sounds of Rue's voice greets his ears and with a sigh he pushes the door open to find Rue bouncing on the bed next to a lump he can only assume is Seishu hiding to avoid talking. He doesn't even spare Harper a glace, who watches with a raised eyebrow as the fox walks over to the bed and with a shooing motion gets Rue to stop bouncing. He instead hovers over the blankets, curious what's about to happen.

With a hard yank Crios removes all the coverings from atop the guardian, the fabric flying past the end of the bed to land on the floor. Moving quickly but still with a doctors kindness and grace he lays Seishu back on to his back and give him a stern look. “You will listen to me when I tell you how to get better. If you don't, I'm not going to keep trying, got it?” Seishu looks at him and for a moment it looks as if he's going to say 'Fine, then let me die, that should make everyone happier around here, right?' but instead he just growls and turns his head away. The growl fades quickly and he nods, his face becoming blank once more.

Harper watches curiously, piping up when the guardian seems to die on the spot, prompting Rue to charge back in with huggles. “Something's wrong, but he won't talk about it. I tried teasing him earlier, and he just crawled into his cocoon, like you saw.” Crios looks at the general, letting out a long sigh.

“And I was just in Lord Enasi's room.” Seishu twitches at the name, but otherwise doesn't respond. Rue notices the twitch and sits up to listen better. Crios keeps his eyes on Harper however. “He had me give him an examination. He thought something might be wrong with him. After the check-up, he seemed almost more upset that nothing was wrong.” He then turns his gaze to Seishu.

Without prompting, he begins talking softly. The entire group listens silently. “I said I wouldn't, so I'm not going to. That doesn't make it go away you know. Even if dream me knows it's for the best, it doesn't stop the feeling. It doesn't stop him from trying everything but. In his words, “I want it.” But then again, who doesn't? Even serial killers want it. I've seen it, I know. Our race is ruled on emotions, and denying this is like denying our very being. But, I know I have to, so I will keep denying, and I will keep him in check. However, can you even begin to imagine? Going you whole life without, never dreaming of it happening, and then, there, it happens, or almost. The moment it becomes a glimmer it's crushed by the simple facts of your existence. There is no chance, but imagine a part of you won't let go. It won't crush that little spark of hope, making your inside tear at each other like a crocodile in a death roll, rending it apart but still leaving little bits whole to go on though all there is is little pieces left. . . .”

As he speaks he doesn't shed a single tear, but in his voice the others can hear the torrent of them falling in his soul. Rue does his crying for him, his sobs quiet but his tears flowing freely. He clings to the sheets, knowing that touching Seishu right now is not a good idea. Crios on the other hand had crouched down in the middle of the guardian's avalanche of emotions expressed in words, his arms coming to wrap around his legs, his face buried in his knees. It's impossible to see if he's crying, but his shaking shoulders show how much he's hurting right now.

Harper lasted the longest, turning away only at the very end when Seishu spoke of 'hope'. With his back to the guardian the only sign that he was affected is slightly heavier breathing. Seishu seems to recover a little bit, the torrent of sadness helping him out a bit, however the taint of sympathy makes the meal a bit sour. But, beggars can't be choosers as they say. With a soft sigh he reaches out to stroke Rue's cheek. “As for you lord, don't worry. He's prolly just worried about how the kiss made him feel, and is a bit shaken up wondering why I was crying at the end.” The small meal is enough to push his dream self back into his place, his emotions once more disconnecting and allowing him to breath easier.

“You kissed him? That's what made you sad?” Rue chokes out.

Seishu shakes his head. “Nah, Little Bite, I was crying because I realized, as he let me do it, that there was a chance he may feel the same way too some day and that means if I'm going to keep my promise to you guys, I won't be able to get that close to him again in that world. It hurts too much, and I can't risk him falling for me. . .” Rue's tears start flowing strong again but Seishu pulls him in close. He can hear muffled mutters of, “Cruel” and “Not fair” coming from his chest but he just chuckles lightly. His head tilts slightly a couple seconds later. “Heads up, time to dry off. I can feel him nearby. He just came into range, so you have a little while, but I would hurry none the less.” He runs his fingers soothingly through the little fairy’s hair. “If he comes in here and you're all like this, there'll be no stopping him from asking questions, and I don't want you guys being forced into telling him.” Rue nods against him, wiping tears and snot on to his bare shoulder.

[AkiBlue]

The air was heavy when Seishu warned them to compose. Enasi was nearing the room, but according to the Nightmare Guardian, they had a fair amount of time. Crios' shaking slowed and after a moment, he finally got up. His head was lowered, and he turned to go reorganize his materials, wiping his eyes in the process. Even as he gained much of his cool composure back, his tail still twitched back and forth. It seemed the more the two Guardians' lives were explained, the more it hurt. Enasi tried to spare them the details, but with Seishu around everything became clearer. He didn't realize how much Lord Enasi had truly hurt despite his cheery disposition. The guardian was always trying to make others happy, and never made time for himself. Thinking about it more and more, created a small spark of fire behind him, and he heaved a sigh to relax. This was definitely tough. And then to have to hide such pained sympathy from his guardian made it hurt only worse.

With Seishu wiping his tears and comforting him, Rue tried to shape up. He's given a few tissues to use instead of his clothes and Seishu. "Thank you." He says and continues to get himself together. He managed to calm himself and quietly snuggle to Seishu. Crios walked over and swept the tissues into a small trash bin.

Harper on the other hand took the longest to calm his silent tears. He looked away from everyone else, especially the arrogant Night. Even in his downfalls, he knew some sly comment was close by. Harper found himself stuck on Enasi's turmoil. Even though he knew him for so long and assumed they were so close, there was a lot he hadn't known about his guardian. He had wondered what else Enasi didn't want to share. He held the same thoughts as Crios. Their guardian did his best keeping everyone else happy, but was he even truly happy? His furry cheeks were wet and pressed against his face. He took the offered tissue that Crios held out. The doctor knew that Harper tried to hold his place as the strong one, and he would respect it nonetheless. Harper took the tissue if only to dry off the obvious wet fur. A soft clearing of his throat and a raise of his ears indicated that he was... better. At least, his crying had stopped.

Now, it was just the matter of them waiting.

~~~```~~~````~~~~```~~~

Before Enasi had made his way to Seishu's room, he had wondered the castle in his own thoughts. A few minions that walked past him would greet him only for him to nod silently or simply wave. It was much different than his normal happy responses.

'I couldn't- It's not right... He doesn't even have feelings for me. That would just be an embarrassment on my part. Why?

It was one question he had to focus and answer. Why did he feel this way? But he couldn't answer because Cho bounced out of nowhere. "Lord Enasi, Lord Enasi! It's breakfast time and you're wandering around like a lost puppy! Is something wrong?" Cho grinned happily and took his guardian's hand, leading him to the kitchen. "Who's in the room with that Nightmare Guardian? I shall bring them all breakfast, they work so hard."

Enasi blinked, and was tugged out of nowhere. "I'm fine." At least that's what Crios said. Not given a chance to slow down, he answered the second question. "Seishu, Rue, Crios, and probably Harper."

"Five plates for breakfast! I'm on it!" Cho bounded off happily. His energy made the Dream Guardian smile a little, getting his mind off the subject.

'--'--'-----'----'-'--'

Enasi had brightened a little more from Cho's cheerfulness. The minion mainly did it because he felt the not so bright energy from his guardian. So, what better way to help his guardian than to be happy and spread the energy to him?

"Five plates~ Breakfast order." Cho grinned as Enasi pushed the door open. One plate was handed to Harper and with a surprised raise of his ears he thanked him, taking a bite. Crios got his plate and gave a small smile, managing to stop his twitching tail. Rue's plate was balanced on Cho's head and Rue giggled as his plate was handed to him. "Thank you!" He giggled again and began eating. "Yum!"

Cho bowed and walked over to Crios. Subtly he spoke under his breath. "I don't know what was wrong with him earlier, but I got him to smile a little more." He gave a grin before leaning on a wall as they enjoyed his food.

Enasi held his plate and Seishu's. Quietly, he walked over and handed him his plate. His breathing stayed steady and surprisingly so did his hands, but he didn't look into his eyes. "Here you go." He said softly, glancing at the bright eyed Rue with a gentle smile. Once Seishu took the plate, Enasi took his seat and ate quietly. "This is really great Cho."