Sophie and Paige climbed out of a beautiful blue Corvette, Paige couldn’t stop babbling about the sleek convertible. Sophie flittered naturally past the glittering signs of shops, each one desperately trying to lure in shoppers to buy their ware. Paige’s short legs hurried to keep up with Sophie.
“Seriously Soph, that car is a dream. You must have some serious dough,” Paige shrilled happily.
“It’s my dad’s, but he lets me use it whenever,” Sophie’s smile quirked. It appeared another one of Paige’s obsessions was coming to light. They strolled leisurely through the crowds, chatting happily.
“The store should be over th-” Paige started, but was interrupted as her eyes fell on a gang of girls outside the store.
“Let’s go then!” Sophie grinned, starting forward oblivious to Paige’s hesitancy.
“I know a better shop, maybe we should go there?” Paige said, encouraging Sophie to stop.
Sophie grabbed Paige’s hand and continued forward, “Nonsense, you said this was the best shoe shop in the mall!”
A tall willowy blonde stopped them in their tracks, her hands planted firmly against her bony hips and an ugly sneer on what could have been a pretty face. “Where are you going shorty?” she jeered, a nasty gleam in her dirty brown eyes.
Paige growled but otherwise ignored the girl, trying to dodge around her. The blonde moved so she was once again in front of Paige, blocking her path, Paige’s fists curled into tight balls, “Move Cassandra,” she hissed, barely containing her inner rage.
The blonde looked as if she would consider it, before shaking her head cruelly, “No, I don’t think so.” As she smiled sarcastically, her friends broke into laughter behind her like cackling hyenas.
Paige was holding onto her temper by threads when Sophie decided she should take charge. “If you don’t mind, Paige and I are rather busy. Would you mind letting us through?” she asked politely.
Cassandra’s eyes flickered to the black haired beauty. “And who are you?” she snapped, dirty eyes fixed on Sophie.
“I am a friend of Paige’s. Now if you don’t mind we have some shopping to do,” she stated simply, edging past the imposing girl.
“Not in this section of the mall,” Cassandra laughed and her friends took their cue once again, “These are designer outfit shops. You two are nowhere near cool enough to shop here.”
Sophie could hear Paige’s knuckles crack behind her. She just smiled at the girls, “You’re right. If we shopped at these places then we might end up looking like you. Heaven forbid I look like an overly made up troll, with an ego so big, that even her entourage of twigs, with a serious lack of brain cells, couldn’t make her feel like someone who could actually have friends, that didn’t gossip behind her back, every second that it was turned.”
The speed and accuracy of the delivered words, made it seem like Sophie had been practicing the speech for a while, but Paige knew she hadn’t.
Cassandra’s mouth fell open, along with some of the other ‘twigs’ in the group. The rest stood there dithering, unsure as to what was going on, waiting for the laughter that they was sure was supposed to come.
“Thank you for saving us from that,” Sophie told Cassandra quickly, before snatching Paige’s hand and hurrying her through the small group. Cassandra hissed as Sophie bumped her aside, daggers in her eyes but she made no move against the girl. Paige grinned, saluting the small group with her middle finger as she passed by, watching them move off in a hurry, squawking in anger.
“That was brilliant Sophie!” Paige praised, slapping the girl on the back. “I think half of them didn’t get the insult, which makes it that much better!” she laughed, and Sophie’s lips quirked up into a smile. Paige grinned, leading Sophie into a store.
The owner greeted Paige as if she was an old lost friend, “Paige! How are you? How are the tournaments going?”
“Not too bad, can’t wait for the mixed grade next year, then I can really show what I am made of!”
“You will still come to me for you shoes though, yes?” The shop owner laughed.
“You know I wouldn’t go anywhere else,” Paige winked, “But I am here for my friend Sophie today.”
He nodded, before he began to show Sophie what he had.
“She will take what I have!” Paige interrupted, pointing down at the shoes that graced her feet. They certainly did look athletic. The man’s face brightened considerably as he walked off to retrieve some sizes.
Sophie watched him retreat into the back room, This must be a high end shoe.
“Thank you Sophie,” Paige said seriously, “for sticking up for me. Cassandra has always been on my case.”
Sophie nodded slowly, “You are welcome. But I really don’t understand one thing.”
“What is that?” Paige asked curiously.
“Why didn’t you punch her?” Sophie asked genuinely, “I mean you never have a problem giving Rocko a good smack. Why not Cassandra?”
Paige laughed, “I have thought about it, believe me. I have played out the situation in my head many a time.” Paige pointed at her head as she spoke, “But I wouldn’t. Not only is Cassandra completely unable to protect herself, but her daddy is on the payroll of some pretty important people. She is pretty untouchable unless I want a criminal record - which I do not.”
Sophie raised her eyes brow, “Which important people?”
Paige snorted, “The most important people Rogue Island of course. The beloved Mayor and his superstar wife.” she chuckled sarcastically, causing Sophie to squirm uncomfortably.
Paige’s eyes narrowed and Sophie flushed dull red, “No way!” Paige exclaimed, “You’re the Mayor’s princess?” She burst out laughing, clutching her sides, “I am hanging out with the Princess of Rogue Island!”
She collapsed into giggles, “Well at least now we know why you drive such a mint car. Your daddy is running this island.” she laughed and Sophie looked slightly miffed before breaking into a smile.
“Yeah… Well we can’t all ride the bus now can we?” she teased and Paige laughed.
“You got that right! From now on you can drive me around. Think of it as charity work. You are helping out a friend in need,” Paige smiled before the two girls broke into laughter.
Sophie had just finished paying for her new trainers, when she suddenly turned to her new friend, “We should throw him a party.”
Paige shrugged, “I am all for a party, but who for?”
Sophie giggled, “Nathan. I mean, that is such sudden notice that he has to go away, I feel bad for him!” she murmured, leaving the store with Paige.
“It sounds like a good idea,” Paige smiled, feeling more relaxed then she had in a long time. “We spend so much time training, blowing off a little steam would be a great escape. We could even invite your friends from the mall!” Paige threw in cheekily.
Sophie laughed along with her. This was a new side of Paige that nobody had seen before. This girl was something else. “Let’s get this thing organized,” Sophie cheered, winding through the numerous stores.
“How about we throw it in two days. I bet even Teresa lets her hair down every now and then,” Paige grinned, but her eyes widened when she realized where Sophie had led her.
“Not a chance Sophie!” she squealed in horror, but Sophie didn’t give her an option. She took Paige by the shoulders she steered her into the shop.
“If you are going to a party, you will need a dress!” she grinned. Paige groaned loudly.
“Nathan is going to owe me big time!” she grumbled as they disappeared inside.
The two girls reveled in their moment of normalcy even though they knew it wouldn’t last,
The two days went by quickly and the girls had secretly arranged Nathan’s farewell party in-between training sessions. Tensions had been high in the complex since he had acquired his new blades, especially between himself and Jake. And by the time the party arrived everyone was more than ready to unwind. Sophie and Paige waited nervously under the warm, winter, midday sun at Chester Park. The boys were supposed to arrive sometime soon.
“This damn dress!” Paige growled, tugging at the mid-thigh hem of her elegant blue dress, “It is too short for its own good!” she growled, smoothing the soft fabric over her thighs. “And this hair!” she grumbled, “Don’t even get me started…” she swept back a perfect curl behind her ear. Carefully not to smudge the black that lined her eyes.
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“You look good,” Sophie soothed, waiting patiently beside her. She wore a deep emerald dress, the soft material fluttered gently about her knees. The front of her dress dipped lower than anything she had worn before, showing off an expensive gold choker. The precious metal twisting in fabulous designs and creeping down her exposed chest. She had dressed to her status tonight. With her hair pinned up elegantly and smoky shadows lined her eyes. Great silver stilettos attached to her feet, rocketing her up another few good inches. And finally, exquisite arm bands wound up her arm. The material polished and smooth, etched with beautiful designs.
Paige admired them as Sophie unconsciously brushed her hands over them.
“Easy for you to say,” Paige growled, her attention turning back to her feminine appearance. “You always look stunning… I look stupid,” she moaned.
“I don’t know little Paige… I think you look kind of cute,” came a deep booming male voice and Paige rolled her eyes.
“Did you bring it?” she said flatly, turning to meet Rocko. The giant smiled down at her widely, dressed smartly in a traditional black and white tux.
“Yup. We have it here,” Jake grinned as he stepped out from behind the tall man, wearing a matching suit.
Sophie held out her hands for the suit bag Jake clutched in his hands. She missed his eyes bulge and the nervous swallow before he handed her the package.
“Where is Nate?” Jake croaked, his eyes never straying from Sophie.
“He can’t be far now,” Sophie confirmed, striding back to Paige’s side on her wedged heels.
Hyung and Sam were next to arrive. They had nice suits on as well. Hyung smiled and thanked the girls for the great idea. “You do need to stop sometimes and celebrate the little things,” he said to Sophie with a smile.
“Where is Teresa?” Sophie asked, noting that she had not made an appearance.
“She will not come,” he replied gravely, “There are things you do not know about her Sophie. She has been through a lot in her life. Parties are not something she can enjoy,” Hyung spoke as if he was reliving some terrible moments.
“Ok,” Sophie gave him an understanding nod.
It was then that Nathan arrived. They had not told him much, only that they were having a get together at the park. “Surprise!” they all yelled in unison at the guest of honor.
His grin stretched from ear to ear. He was not dressed as the others, only wearing casual a hoodie and jeans, “What is all this then?” he asked, not knowing what to make of the situation.
“Well we thought that we would have a farewell party for you!” Paige yelled, giving him a hug.
“I am feeling a little underdressed…” he said, looking down at his clothes, “But you ladies look fantastic!” he spoke, his eyes lingering on Sophie.
“Well lucky for you,” Paige interrupted noisily, “Sophie is a gal with a plan!” she said, handing Nathan the suit bag.
“Well, where should I get changed?” the group stilled, they hadn’t thought of that.
“There is a bush over there Nate. Stop being a wuss,” Jake mocked jovially. The two’s eyes met and they exchanged a small smile.
“Well I will see you in a minute,” Nathan grinned and ran behind the bush. When he reappeared the group was deep in conversation, laughing and joking and generally having a good time. Jake waited awkwardly off to the side, clearly wanting to speak to Nathan.
“Hey bro,” he said quietly.
“Hey,” Nathan replied, stepping out of the bush, adjusting his bow tie.
Jake stumbled for words to say. The two hadn’t really talked since the incident, “Seeing all this… You’re really going away huh?”
Nathan cut to the chase, “Look Jake… I’m sorry for what happened. That’s the reason I have to leave. I don’t… I don’t want to hurt any of you guys ever again. I will learn to control them,” a determined look crossed his face.
Jake smiled a sad smile too, “Yeah well I guess it was my fault too. I shouldn’t have asked for that fight. But next time I will be stronger than you. I know what you can do now.” he smiled.
Nathan grinned, “In your dreams Jake,” he laughed, slapping Jake on the back.
“You’ll see Nate,” Jake grinned, moving out of Nathan’s reach, “We better join the party!” The two strolled forward and the party began.
Dinner was a fantastic picnic in the park. The boys ate until they were stuffed and then ate some more.
“Man that was good chicken,” Jake moaned, clutching his full belly, the group voicing their agreement.
“When you come back Nate, we will have to do this again!” he grinned.
Nathan grimaced clutching at his own stomach. “And may that be quite a while a way, I will need some time to digest this,” he moaned, as they stood up, packing the picnic up. The five of them began to walk across the park.
Sam had left with Hyung straight after the dinner, imparting instructions regarding Nathan’s departure in the morning.
“You’ll be missed Nathan,” Rocko said, the giant strolling to his left.
The two girls were walking ahead, laughing and chatting as if they had been friends their whole lives.
“Thanks man,” Nathan grinned.
Rocko smiled, the large man hadn’t smiled much since they had met, so it was nice to see him relax.
“Not interrupting am I?” a loud female voice boomed throughout the field causing the group to still.
A woman stepped into view, through the late afternoon sun. Her long pale blonde hair fluttered delicately in the night air. She raised her hand to the sky and it held a large golden trident.
Rain began to fall. Slow at first then faster. The winter droplets soaking through their clothes.
“Don’t you hate it when it rains at a picnic?” she yelled confidently, her figure barely discernible through the torrential rain. “Keepers without their blades,” she tutted, “Seems like this isn’t going to be much fun.”
Nathan’s eyes narrowed on the golden trident, “That trident is called Nero, the Greek word for water,” he informed the group through the noise of the rain.
They had all subconsciously fallen back into a loose unit.
“Who is she?” Sophie asked, not daring to take her eyes of the stranger. Paige hung beside her, poised and ready to strike.
The woman rose her trident once again, waving the weapon through the air.
Water rose from the saturated earth and crept up their legs.
“It’s not coming off,” Paige panicked, trying to dislodge the creeping water, the liquid now closing over her neck.
“Take a deep breath,” cried Sophie loudly as the water reached up and over Paige’s mouth. Rocko was wiping at the small woman’s face wildly trying to give her room to breathe. Water had closed over Paige sooner than the rest.
“She cannot breath!” he cried, his attempts to clear her mouth failing. The water now rising about his neck, and closing in over Nathan and Jake. Sophie herself could no longer breathe.
It’s time. Sophie thought, the bangles around her arm began to shine and glow. The winding band reforming, covering her skin in a dark bark. Sophie no longer needed to breathe. Like the plants around her, she absorbed the water, taking in its nutrients and using it to strengthen her.
Around her, her friends were dying. Not if I can help it! She thought and focused on Shizen’s power. Roots erupted from the ground, flying around the pale woman, knocking her from her feet. It was enough to distract her, and allowed time for her friends to fall to the ground gasping as the water fell from their bodies.
“A Keeper with her blade,” The woman noted, “That will make this more interesting.” The rain began to encase Sophie, directed by the Keeper of Nero. Sophie remained unperturbed by this, responding with another volley of roots and vines.
“We need to get out of here,” Nathan spoke urgently, “Paige is hurt!”
Sophie looked back fleetingly seeing Paige pale and unmoving. Rocko was checking her vitals as she lay still on the soft grass.
“Go! I will provide you cover,” she called as the grass grew tall about their feet.
“We won’t leave you,” Nathan yelled, he plunged his hand into the water that surrounded her, grabbing onto her bark covered arm.
“I will be fine Nathan. Get Paige out of here,” she assured him, the grass rising high above their heads.
“You cannot hide from me,” came the woman’s voice, “I am quite like you Sophie, I know you can sense anything that touch’s what you govern. As with me, anything touched by water I can also see.” She pushed through the wall of grass, but Sophie was ready.
“Go Nathan,” she called one last time, vines bursting from the earth and wrapped around the woman tightly.
Nathan barely got a word out before Sophie felt her strength wane.
“Feeling thirsty?” the woman stated cruelly, causing Sophie to fall to her knees. She was parched. “Like a double edge sword really,” she smirked, “Water can give you strength but as soon as I take it away. You’ll die.”
Sophie heaved and Nathan fell to his knees beside her. The tall grass withered and died around them. The rest of the group stared in horror at the decimation in the area.
“I think our little game is over,” She said happily, as Sophie gasped through cracked lips.
“Enough!” roared Nathan, launching himself towards the woman after mustering his remaining strength. He was bought up short by a flick of Nero.
“Now now Nathan. It is rude to threaten a lady,” this strange woman seemed to be taking perverse pleasure in this.
Nathan didn’t get long to think about how she knew his name. A dark figure burst through the rain, kicking the pale woman to the ground.
“Where is he?” Teresa roared. Her purple eyes blazed through her wet matted hair. Death seemed to flow off her like an aura.
Nathan not wasting the distraction, hauled Sophie into his arms. Bark still coated her skin and it sucked greedily at the rain that fell upon her.
She looked up at him weakly, “I wasn’t prepared for that.”
Nathan quickly retreated from the scene. Stopping at a safe distance, he could hear Teresa interrogating the woman behind him.
“Where is Frosty?” Teresa shouted, slamming the pale woman into the ground, the golden trident falling from her fingertips. The rain immediately ceased.
There was a flurry of footsteps and Nathan looked up to see Sam and Hyung approach quickly their blades glinting in the moonlight.
Sensing her defeat the woman struggled piteously. Teresa shook her furiously screaming at her, not all her words intelligible.
“I am here Teresa,” came a cold voice that slithered out of the trees that lined the park.
Teresa released her prize to stand, leaving only the heel of her boot tight against the woman’s throat. Sam and Hyung poised themselves for a fight.
“I am right here,” a ghostly white man stepped out of the woods. He was ethereal. With snow white hair and blue tinted skin. Frozen blue lips curved into the maniacal smile. A familiar face stood loyally at his side. Leon. The lean fighter standing casually, thin arms hanging by his sides.
“Give us Myst back and we will leave,” he said tonelessly, motioning at the woman struggling beneath Teresa’s boot.
“You give us back the artifact that you stole. Then I will let you have the woman,” Teresa’s hissed, her foot twisted on Myst’s throat causing her to gag.
A grinned crossed Frosty’s face, the emotion somehow seemed alien upon his face. He swept a hand slowly through his snowy hair. Nathan’s eyes widened when he realized it was ice. “No Snake, you see, you are not in a position to negotiate. I alone could deal with the three of you. Yet I am not alone. I have three Keepers here and a very skilled Hunter. Do you really think you can take us?”
Leon grinned cracking his knuckles menacingly.
Teresa let out a gruff growl but let up her boot slowly. The woman scrambled up off the ground. She collected Nero and ran towards the duo by the woods edge. A flash of black appeared beside her and Nathan realized that it was the missing hunter. As Myst fell into Frosty’s open arms, she sobbed in relief. Her relief turned quickly to a shriek of pain and she pulled back to reveal black frost bite finger marks covering her arms.
“That’s for being stupid. You only just stole that blade, you barely know the basics of what can be achieved with the power it holds,” he chided, turning to walk away.
Nathan released the breath that he was holding.
Hyung was now standing with them.
“What just happened?” Nathan demanded.
Teresa kicked the dirt at her feet, “Bloody Hunters!” She yelled exasperated, “They broke in and stole the Trumpet. And during the break in, Myst took the test for the final blade, passing it with ease. I overheard them talking though. I think I know what their next move is.”
Hyung stared at her sternly, “What is it?”
Teresa shook her head, “They have sent a team to Bolivia. They mean to retrieve the Scroll of the Seven Seals.”
Hyung shook his head gravely, “This is not good. Head back to base and get Marco on the line. Check if he knows anything about the Hunter movements in that area,” He turned to the group of new Keepers, “Alright young ones, looks like you are about to embark on your first mission.”