Shu tugged at the silk, the tailor in front of him, assessing her work. It was finally the day of the mission and all of them were inside the main building. They had figured the safest option was to send a chosen group to Gemini. Sending a larger group meant arousing more suspicion. Free and Lui had gotten ready before any of them, the new silk robes fitting their strong bodies perfectly. It had taken a longer time for the rest of them to get ready, especially for the four who had never tried a woman's robe before. Needless to say Gemini had elaborated designs for their clothes. Shu had no idea why they needed to have these complicated patterns that would trip you over your feet.

Shu averted his gaze as the tailor added her finishing touches to the long skirt, the opening hidden expertly by the shrilly folds of the silk. She had chosen a rose patterned white silk for him — trying to match the attire with his eyes, surely. The top of it was designed to have his shoulders bare, the sleeveless top clinging to his body, hugging the curve of his waist before falling in loose folds to the ground. Shu uncertainly stared at his reflection from the mirror, hesitantly eyeing his shoulders and bare hands when one of the women from the village brought him a light pink veil. She asked him to stay still as her skillful fingers took hold of it, wrapping the silk around his shoulders and tangling it round his elbows.

Shu turned, not only did it cover him up, that would really help if he wanted to choke someone. Though he suspected the latter choice was mainly his own gruesome mentality. "Thank you," Shu smiled at her. The woman didn't answer. Most of them didn't. Though they were gathered here to help them, their movements were reluctant and cowering as if they still didn't trust these dangers but would go any lengths to save their young princess.

Wakiya and Ruway were trying not to make any noises as they dwelled with their hair, driving pins to their skulls. Zac seemed to be at ease with everything even going on and the blonde went far enough to give them pointers as to what should be done. Shu was guided to a seat when they finally started probing through his long white locks. He had never had anyone messing along his hair in years. When he was young, it was his mother who always arranged it and then as he grew up, he just pulled it up with his faded leather strap to keep it out of the way.

He watched from the mirror in front of him as one of them undid his ponytail and started using a curler, something he had always seen his mother use at the end of his locks. She slipped in a hairpin shaped like a butterfly and gathered the bangs on his right and clipped it on the side of his head. Shu stayed rock still when one of them started working on his face, applying paint over his lips, shifting it from the natural pink to a seductive deep red.

After a painstaking half an hour they stopped, "Done," She simply conveyed, brushing the skin over Shu's eyelid one last time adjusting the skin colour into a light pink. Shu slumped back to the chair, sighing. It had taken longer than he had expected, the time to leave was edging closer.

He had been the last to be released from the room. The rest were in the main compound passing the strategies and last moment arrangements. Sasha was standing in the middle in all her great elegance, a silver band resting on top of her forehead — an indication of her royalty.

"Shu!" Valt cheered, running up towards him. He was dressed as a royal guard of Pisces just like the rest of them who were aiding the group. The shorter one grabbed his arms. "You're pretty."

"Thank you," Shu murmured, stealing a glance at Lui whose eyes had been transfixed on him since he stepped into the open compound. He wasn't even attempting to look away as he openly stared, heat crept up his neck. "Quit staring," He grumbled.

Lui merely shrugged, "I'm trying to."

"He sure is trying hard," Free snorted, elbowing the male beside him. Both of them dressed in deep blue robes, sheathed swords in their hands though Shu knew it would be useless. Any weapon had to be left by the guardrooms. Their only shot would be the ones carried by the five of them hidden deep in their dresses. A set of clean iron knives strapped into the leather band attached to his thigh would be their sole escape, if they were able to sneak them in of course.

Sasha took a deep breath. The girl had been agitated since the morning, running through their strategy over and over that no information went amiss. Orochi placed the flute on Shu's hand with a firm nod. He was in the group who would be staying back in this place, ready to charge at Gemini at any given moment. "Good luck," He said, his eyes shifting among all of them. "And be careful."

Shu attached the flute to his belt, again measuring up the ways he could make this a weapon. When the circumstances are dire, his mind tends to overthink about any prop in his hands. It was simply surprising how many things you find in your lives could be turned into a deadly weapon. You just needed a bit of creativity and a strong survival instinct. "Ready?" Sasha asked, it was aimed at everyone but mostly to herself.

Wakiya nodded, answering for them all. His lavender patterned robes shifted as he moved. "We better get going now."

The sound of the celebration welcomed them as they reached the main gates of the land. A steady line of citizens were waiting outside the gates as soldiers led them one by one into an enclosed cell beside the gates, searching for weapons. Shu and Sasha shared a glance. It was previously decided that the two of them will lead the group. Free and Lui were by the end of their little team, their eyes alert for any oncoming danger. They stood by the end of the line, this was the first challenge they had to overcome in order to make this whole mission a success.

The steady beat of drums reverberated from the inside. They could hear the chatter of people, the call of different vendors selling food. The guards eyed their group once they were in the front of the lines. Sasha provided the neccessary invitation papers which were looked at thoroughly, her words proving right, after the assassination of their guards, they seem to be adding extra pressure to security. The guard gestured at the enclosed cells. Sasha took the lead.

Inside it were two men, awaiting to check them for any weapons or harmful elements. Security was one of their priorities and these two men seemed to have been battered after a long day of working. One of them was already searching through Sasha for any weapons which she had expertly hidden under her clothes. Another reached for Shu, his firm hands running down his body searching for the same harmful elements. When his hands brushed over his thigh, Shu winced, almost waiting to get caught, the shiny knives to break his skin.

"These have to be left in here," A sudden voice interrupted. Shu turned to see the other guard had moved on from Sasha and was referring to the swords Free and Lui carried. They had initially established the fact that it would strike as odd not to carry a single weapon. Lui's and Free's weapons were for show but it was to prove the fact their guards would be leaving the weapons without much hassle. That also made Shu wonder about another solid situation.

The other guard had searched through half of them and the one searching him had been keeping his hands on him for the past five minutes. He looked at him pointedly, if this kept on it would be only a matter of time before he discovered the knives strapped to his thigh. Sasha was glancing at him worriedly. If they busted their cover right now, saving Honey would be a fleeting dream. Shu braced himself for the oncoming embarrassment and gave him a wicked smile. The guard flushed. Shu guessed right, he was attracted to him.

His hands stopped where they were on his thigh, just below the leather strap, one finger up and he would feel the pointed end of the knife. Shu forced his leg forward, sliding it in between the guard's legs, his face inches apart from the man. "When are you getting off work?" Shu cooed, his hands splayed on his firm chest.

His attention wavered. Eyes flicking to his rose lips and settling on his exposed shoulders. He didn't even seem to be able to look him in the eyes. The man took Shu's words as an invitation as he muttered a time glancing worriedly at the other guard who was giving him an exasperated look in return. But he didn't oblige. They were guards and had scant attention from beautiful women, they might as well seize the chance. "See you then," Shu flirted, whispering in his ear before coyly pushing him back, sauntering his way out of the cell. The guard just stood there, transfixed, his search forgotten as he didn't even open his mouth to stop him, already dreaming of this beautiful maiden wrapped in his arms.

The moment they stepped out of the guard cells Shu stomped his foot on the ground, flushing bright crimson. He had never been the seductive, flirting type and it seemed to be the day was just starting and this act would have to drag on until their rescue mission was done.

Sasha grinned, patting his back with a satisfied smile. "I knew you had it in you."

Shu grimaced, averting his gaze to the ground, rebuilding his composure when the rest of them walked out of the cell. Lui's eyes firmly planted on Shu's. The embarrassment flared inside his heart again but Shu kept his neutral mask on though his cheeks were displaying all the feeling he kept locked inside. Lui walked over and squeezed his elbow, "Don't keep teasing those men. It would be rude to break all those fantasies." He was teasing him. His lips stretched into a smile.

Shu growled, whispering, "Shut up."

But the air among them had turned upbeat after the incident. All of them were in good spirits and even seemed to be enjoying the atmosphere. They rarely had any comfort while they were driving forward with a dangerous mission but this one, though as dangerous it might be, was interesting. "Shooting star!" Zac chimed in, "Keep that up and you have the whole kingdom under your thumb," He winked. Shu pushed him away, miserably failing to keep his poker face on.

"Let's just go."

The others agreed. Shu knew by Sasha's descriptions Gemini were forefathers of celebrations and exotic festivals but as they stepped into the city plaza he was taken aback by the festivities. It was a whole new atmosphere. He had seen Akarui and the things their kingdom had to offer but this was taking the whole situation to another level. Bright coloured flags adorned the sides of each street as vendors kept calling names of foods, goods. Young women flirted freely with crowds of men. Some of them were eyeing the jewellery and silk the shops had to offer.

The spiced scent of meat, the sweet aroma of baked bread invaded their senses. It was beautiful to look at. These people with smiles on their faces are enjoying the day like any other. It seemed that the city was brimming with positive energy that feelings like sorrow and frustration were a far cry from what they really were. "Princess," A voice called. A man walked over to them, dressed in deep blue robes, handling a long steel wine glass in his hand. "You have finally decided to adorn us with your presence."

Sasha kept her voice levelled, "I have no desire to engage with your petty festivals. I am just here to see my sister and of course..." She gestured at the rest of the team, "To show them the famous festivals of Gemini."

The man took interest in them. "Ah, such beauty," He said, striding towards Wakiya and taking in his robes and stunning sapphire eyes. "I hope these people know how to entertain"

Sasha gave him a challenging smile. "You can bet on it."

"Be my guest." He gestured towards an inn. They followed him inside to the dimness of the restaurant. The flute and harp music reverberated through the interior. Women, dressed in soft silk, men, with sake on their hands were enjoying the young maidens on the small platform, circling to the tune, their wide skirts billowing around them in perfect circles. "Welcome to my little paradise."

Shu noticed that everyone had gotten significantly quiet. He had already guessed this man should be the new leader appointed by the famous Demon Lords. The respect the others held proved his point. They were guided through a staircase towards an open hall. The men inside stood as he entered and made his way to the head seat, gesturing Sasha to be seated beside him. The girl didn't hesitate. She kept her face hard and cold as she walked over and sat down. The rest of them scatter around the tables, trying to both gain intel and earn trust.

"Well then," The man started. Shu found himself sitting at the main table by the far corner. Zac and Wakiya were on the table behind him. Zac was already blending in with the rest of the men, his soft dialect earning interested looks from the rest of them as they questioned his initial residence and the culture. They really were inquisitive about everything. Free and Lui were on the table by their right, women offering them drinks, trying to flirt with them. Lui looked bored, Free gave them tight lipped smiles trying to tone down the fuss these women were making.

Shu's heart tightened at the sight. He would never admit it, but he didn't like the fact one of them was leaning heavily against Lui. The latter didn't seem to mind but was invested in looking at the man at the head of their table, narrating a story. His violet eyes then shifted to Shu and noticed the staring. A devilish smile appeared on his features as he finally accepted the drink with a welcoming smile to the woman.

Shu huffed, averting his gaze to their own table. The man engaged in small talk with Sasha. This was going to be a long day. "And she is," The man asked, drawing him away from his thoughts. Sasha looked at Shu.

"She's a distant relative."

The man smiled, picking up the white clay jug, blue flower patterns scattered across it. "May I?" He asked. Shu picked up the small cup and nodded wordlessly. He was not good with alcohol but one cup wouldn't hurt.

He downed the glass. The strong liquid burning his throat. Shu pressed his lips trying to tone down the coughs. He offered another filling. Shu politely shook his head. "No, thank you. I'm not quite good with holding alcohol."

One of the men whistled, "It would be our pleasure to aid you once you're out of the clutches of reality, darling."

Shu smiled sweetly, "I'd rather have you all see me like who I am."

"Your sister," The man turned the conversation back to Sasha. "She's doing quite well with us. Probably missing her sister though."

Sasha gritted her teeth, "Oh, that's quite reassuring to hear."

"We treat our women like goddesses," Another spoke up, his eyes firmly fixed on Shu, his bosom to be specific. "We will be glad to take care of new ones."

Shu shifted under the perverted gaze. Though these men wouldn't touch a maiden without their volition, their gazes were fixed on them, searching them up like objects. "I'm afraid my folks need me." Shu let out a light laugh, "With my sick mom, they need all the hands they could."

Shu was cooking up a tale that would keep their inquiries at the bay. But they needed to gather information now. "What's wrong with your mom?"

Shu shrugged his delicate shoulders. "Same old, same old." He smiled. "Age always does wonders to the body. She's fragile now."

The man seemed interested. He leaned forward. "Where are you from? Your dialect is soft. You're not from around here, are you?"

Sasha opened her mouth to interfere but Shu beat her to it. "You have keen ears, my lord." He rested his chin on his palm. White locks sliding to the side in steady curls. "But yes, I'm from the land across the seas."

The whole table quietened. Sasha's eyes widened. Shu was gambling information here, one step to the wrong side, he'd be falling in his own trap. The lord rounded the table. The man beside Shu gave away and stood as he slipped into the space beside him, impossibly close. The air around him tensed. "Ah, that's quite wonderful. I didn't know Pisces people had relatives from the land across the seas."

Shu's smile was pleasant. "Ah well. You can say Pisces is a land with a wide history. My mother is from the land across the seas, but my father is a Pisces native. What can I say, love makes people do wonders."

The man smiled, downing another glass. He didn't offer any to Shu, knowing the latter would reject the offer. "I am aware."

"Of love?" Shu asked teasingly and it had the desired effect.

His smile this time was genuine. "Of love. Tell me about it, the land beyond the seas." Shu noticed he was edging close, his palm now resting on his leg, caressing his skin. If Shu pulled away now, he would gain the freedom because they were not allowed to touch any women who had rejected them, but that means he'd lose this trust.

"I'm more interested in this Zodiac Land. I know very little of this place."

The man laughed out loud, "Ah, you're a tricky one. Aren't you?"

"I don't know." Shu shrugged, inching closer, his voice a seductive whisper. "Do you want to get to know more?"

The man complied. It was true that once they were in the firm clutches of a woman, all men fell to their knees lapping up the affection. But he was a tough coin. Trapping him with his words would be hard and his intelligence would be a boundary Shu would have to cross. "Of you or the land beyond the seas?" The rest of the restaurant was going on with their work but all of their attention was on the pair. Shu could feel the gaze burning on his skin.

"Both, hopefully." Shu purred, looking up at him with a seductive smile. His hand reached to tuck a stray lock behind his ear.

The man's eyes traced the curve of his lips, the inviting gaze. "I'd be delighted." He stood, reaching a hand for him to take. Shu slipped his slender fingers into his and let him pull him up. His crimson gaze fixed on Sasha as the latter gave him a curt nod. They made their way towards the exit, Shu looked over his shoulder at Lui, a brief silent conversation passing in between them. Shu knew close to nothing about this man. He was confident in his combat abilities and defending himself in a pinch situation but he'd be damned if he let himself go with this man alone. He had no idea about his abilities as a fighter. He needed backup and Lui knew what to do in any situation. Shu had every confidence in him.

The White Tyrant nodded with a grimace. Shu knew Lui didn't like the idea of Shu wooing this stranger to learn where Honey was being kept but in situations like this, they had to take every chance they could get.

They exited the inn and started their way across the gleeful crowd to the central square overlooking a magnificent building. Its imposing gates opened, the crowds streamed in and out and the guards stood idly by, seemingly unaware of the random people passing by, walking into the castle as they were stepping into a restaurant. People did have the freedom to do anything here, Shu noted. Then again, when they were stripped off of weapons, they had little to fear. Shu somehow knew they were not aware of the threats of elemental users considering the fact they were extremely seldom found.

They stepped into the main hall of the hall and weaved their way through the crowd. The lord offered heartfelt smiles and even stopped by to make small talks with a couple of giggling girls who flirted with every word spoken. Shu spotted Lui out the corner of his eyes, making his way through the crowd, his presence discreet as he tailed them both. Shu felt his confidence grow as he took a daring step to wrap his arm around the man's firm bicep, "Aren't you the popular one."

The man smiled resting his own hand atop Shu's caressing his smooth skin. There was no doubt in his mind that he took his intimacy as an eager invitation. "Being the lord in a kingdom has its own perks. You have to look into the welfare of your people as well. Don't you agree?"

Shu smiled, the crowd had dispersed and now they were walking down a less decorated, quiet hallway with only a few servants dressed in bleak attire passing by. "I agree. It takes a firm ruler to keep every single citizen in a kingdom this happy. It's my first time seeing a place like this."

The man was biting into his words, and praise. "My pleasure to present to you this beautiful kingdom, your name?"

"Shouko," He replied, they had been over this, Creating a whole persona before they got into real business. "Shouko Yawasaki."

"A beautiful name for a one so beautiful."

"You flatter me, my lord."

"I tell no lies though," He took a turn to the left and arrived at the main garden of the premises. It was no different from the gardens he had seen back home. The primroses danced to the tune of the wind as he guided Shu towards a bench under the shade of a lushful maple tree.

They sat down and enjoyed nature in silence. "Reminds me of home," Shu said, eager to strike a conversation. They had little time to work here.

"I'm glad you're feeling comfortable." He inched closer, his hand resting on Shu's waist as he pulled him close. Shu didn't resist. He leaned against him instead, resting his head on his shoulder.

"More or less," Shu sighed, "I wish every place in the world was like this. Happy and safe."

"Was your hometown not safe?"

The conversation was taking a turn just as Shu wanted. He kept talking. "Well, I'd say this is the only place I've seen women walk around so freely. I've heard it was treason to touch them without their volition. That's a decent rule. It shows the capability of yours as a leader."

Shu knew these men were not only attracted to one's body and face but for the sophisticated way a person could talk. Shu had a lot to offer in that department. If he keenly narrated everything the way he wanted, he'd know where the Hetaira are kept soon enough.

The man leaned back, taking comfort in Shu's words and his kindness. "Leading a kingdom can be hard. Especially when the people are always starved for knowledge and new cultural development. It takes a lot to keep them happy."

"I've heard. What intrigues me-" Shu carefully chose his words. The lord turned his eyes to him, "-is that how you have this group of Hetaira. That's the only black mark I've heard about this kingdom."

The lord let out a light laugh. "I would've been surprised if Princess Sasha didn't complain about how we abducted her sister. But believe me, it's vastly different from what she makes it to be."

"Is it?"

The man leaned down, his lips inches apart Shu's. It took all his resolve to not pull away when he ran a finger through Shu's bottom lips, enjoying the soft texture. "Are you suspicious of me, darling?"

Shit, Shu thought, trying to divert back the attention towards the comfort zones. Shu smiled, moved to entangle their fingers together, pressing close. "I often listen to the arguments of both sides before coming to a decision. Pardon if I have offended you, my lord. It was not my intention."

The man smiled, satisfied by his answer. He didn't pull away but let his breath linger on Shu's cheek as he spoke. "That's better. Hetaira are important class in our kingdom." He pulled away from Shu and rested his back on the bench, looking up at the green leaves of the tree, the bird calls music to their ears. "We treat them like queens here. There was no harm done. No one dare to touch them. Then again-" He smiled, "They are known as the maidens of the tower for a reason."

"Maidens of the tower?"

"Exactly." He didn't elaborate. Nor did he look keen as to reveal further information. But a plan was already forming in Shu's mind. It was stupid, perhaps. Nevertheless the words reminded him of a childhood- his thoughts came to a abrupt halt when he felt lips against his own. Shu froze as the man kissed him, driving them closer. He pulled away for a breath, their lips still inches apart as he whispered. "It's rude to ignore a man while he's speaking. You looked miles away."

Shu smiled, his hand instinctively reaching for the knives on his thigh. Though he knew using these weapons would ruin the plan itself, the comfort of having something he could do damage with lingered in his heart for a second. The man didn't seem to be in the mood to stop but the cry of alarm of a servant drew him away. Shu pulled back as he stood, scurrying out of the garden in a haste. "I'll be back, love," He said, "I think there's trouble."

Shu slumped back to the bench, placing a hand over his racing heart when Lui walked to him. Shu knew it was Lui's designs that made the man leave in a hurry and he was utterly thankful for the White Tyrant for following him and offering him comfort. But the albino also knew he saw everything. Lui placed a hand on top of his head, caressing his locks. "Are you alright?"

A simple question. Shu suddenly felt an overwhelming urge to embrace him, erase that man's traces out of his body. Scratch out the intimacy. This was not the moment to break, they had important things to do. Shu nodded, "Yes." He stood, adjusting his hair, tucking stray bangs out of his vision when Lui placed a quick, soft kiss on his lips. Shu blinked.

"There, that's to erase that filthy man's trace." He then pulled him close and kissed his cheek. "That one's for me." Another feathery kiss soon lingered on his forehead as Lui whispered. "That's for a work well done."

Shu smiled, then chuckled. "You're just looking for excuses to kiss me."

"I don't need excused. I just go for it."

Someone cleared their throat, and the pair looked to their side to see their crew. Sasha had an exasperated look on her face. Zac, Wakiya and Ruway unsure what to think as Free messaged his temples. "Someone could've seen you."

Lui waved his hand, "No. I've taken care of that."

Free raised his brow with a sceptical look. "Did we get any useful information?"

Shu pulled away from Lui's grasp and nodded. "This is going to sound ridiculous but considering all the facts, this is the only shot we've got."

Zac hummed along, "The best information I could get from the people were that Hetaira are considered sacred. They were very discreet about where they were kept. All of them. It was like a secret guarded by the whole kingdom."

"I'm not surprised," Sasha chimed in. "Like the Scorpians, the Koi fishes, Hetaira are the sacred element of this society. They protect them with all their might."

Ruway sighed, "Mine is also a dead end." Wakiya was nodding along. Shu's spirits dampened a little by the lack of information. But this meant they'd really have to gamble with his ridiculous theory.

"That man said something about maidens in a tower," Shu started. "So, my best guess is that they are kept in a separate tower away from everyone's — especially guests, eyes. You see this garden is significantly vacant, and kept away from the main castle where people are sauntering about." Shu pointed at the end of the small woods to his right. "I'm just going to go along with a story Itsuki told me and take a wild guess it's in there."

"Who's Itsuki?"

Shu looked at Sasha. "My cousin brother."

"And does he know anything about this place?"

Shu shrugged, "Not a thing."

"Then how in the world you are assuming a foolish childhood story will be connected with this Dark Continent he knows nothing about?"

"Was it because of your uncle?" Ruway questioned, his eyes moving along the now empty corridors.

"Yes." Shu answered. "I think this is our only option." He honestly had no idea whether these things are connected. But the childhood story was something he had been hearing almost every moment when he was having a fit, or woke up from a nightmare. Itsuki would slip in beside him and encase him in his warm embrace, repeating the tale of the maidens stuck inside the marble tower. Shu knew for a fact it was his uncle who taught him the story first and everything his father gave him, Itsuki held closer to his heart.

"Lead the way." Free interfered their conversation. "We don't have much time. It is just as well we gamble our only option here."

Shu nodded, agreeing as he made a beeling for the woods. The trees grown together, weaving a secure roof over their heads. Almost all of them nursed curled vines which kissed the ground in their luch greenery glamour. The forest was not natural, Shu noticed as his eyes studied the even space among every tree and the carefully planted beds of different flowers. It was as if someone had carefully chosen where every tree must be and where every flower must bloom.

"This is crazy," Sasha whispered, wrapping her arms around herself. There was not a soul in sight and they seemed to have lost their way already.

"This whole place is the definition of insanity," Wakiya muttered in a reply. His sapphire eyes darting across the forest. "I wouldn't be surprised if a Unicorn striked us now."

Shu shushed them. His mind counting the steps. As the story went, once you entered the enchanted forest you have to go fifty steps straight and take a left. Shu always questioned about this precise information that were hidden in the story. Now it seemed no coincidence. The path was engraved in his mind due to the hours of playing with Itsuki in the castle garden, pretending they were hunting for maidens in the marble tower. Shu took a left and the thick cluster of trees started to thin. The sky evident from the thinning leaves.

Soon, voices broke the omnious silence. Male. Probably the guards, Shu guessed. He didn't know whether to be baffled or surprised. His uncle's childhood story had really guided them across the forest of a unknown land to a secret base that held the most sacred women in this kingdom. This was beyond ridiculous.

"Who the hell is your uncle?" Sasha now whispered. They were ducking behind the thick set of berry bushed marking the end of the forest. In front of them was indeed a marvellous marble tower. The white marlbes reflecting the sunrays which now glared at them. The whole construction looked like a gem amidst the forest, glistening under the strong sun making it hard to look at. But the problem was the dozen of guards around it,idly chattering about the daily chores and problems.

"I honestly don't know," Shu answered. "How are we going to get in?"

"We'd need to distract the guards." Free moved to the left, pointing at the small wooden door. There was no lock in sight and it seemed the Hetaira were not locked in as a respect but allowed liberty. "Then we can slip in."

Zac was in his element. He stood, flipping his pretty blonde hair over his shoulder. "This is something that can be done by me and Wakiya."

The latter looked at him, puzzled. Zac pulled him up and smiled sweetly. "Every man like to see two damsels in distress in the middle of nowhere, lost and alone, don't they?"

Wakiya spluttered, unsure how to answer. Ruway grinned. "Good idea. Good luck for you guys."

They watched the two walking towards the guards. Wakiya still flushed after the description of Zac, and the latter perfectly slipping into his role of a damsel in distress. Zac was a natural. Free pressed his lips together and waited. The soldiers seemed to be confused at first but after the exaggerated story of Zac, they flocked around the two of them, asking about their intentions and how they got lost.

Free signalled them to move and the rest followed. Lui guarding the rear while Sasha, Ruway and Shu slipped into the middle. As they guessed, the door was unlocked. Free peered in and steer clear of any danger before gesturing to them to walk in.

The moment Shu walked in, he was taken aback by the interior. He had expected this place to be dark and gloomy with less ventilation options and no windows but the inside was flooding with natural sunlight filtering through the long glass windows by the back. They marble staircase glistening under the polished sunbeams on it. "Up we go," Sasha muttered, taking the lead. Her eagerness to meet her sister was evident in her eyes as she hurried up the steps.

"Wait there!" A voice screamed. It would've been a miracle if they went inside without getting detected by the guards. There were guards stationed inside the tower and Shu could only guess the numbers would increase as they reached the top floors. Ruway summoned a spear and in precise accuracy aimed at the guard who stumbled back by the blow, an howl of agony penetrating the still air inside. "Intruders!" He screamed, clutching to the wound on the chest, "Intruders!" His faltering voice offered before falling into silence. He was not dead, Shu knew. But the sight of a fallen man always reminded him of the past deaths that played in his conscience.

"Hurry," Ruway warned. Sasha nodded, ushering up the steps. Shu slipped out two knives from the leather straps and tossed them to Lui and Free. They had to be armed for any oncoming danger.

As they guessed, the danger was not far away. Ruway crossed his now summoned sword with two guards, pushing them back. The guards tumbled backwards but refused to give up on the fight. Free blocked their path and went to aid the brunette signalling them to go on. The group didn't hesitate. They didn't have much time in their hands.

Shu grabbed a handful of his skirt and raised it up his ankles as they ran up the staircase. Each step had to be careful because of the slippery surface. This place itself was a death trap. No wonder the Hetaira seldom came to the town.

A blow from his right sent Shu tumbling to the side wall, crashing hard into it. Pain exploded in his right arm as Shu bent down in agony. Lui swore, blocking the surprise attack. Shu blinked, focusing the situation in front of him as he cradled his injured arm. Three soldiers were blocking their path now. And one of them was just in front of him with his strong whip ready to attack.

Shu raised his able hand to his thigh, the man inched closer spotting no weapons. He raised his own and was about to strike Shu when the male ducked, sweeping his feet off the floor. Slipping the last remaining knife off his leather strap in quick motion, he sunk it into his muscular arm.

The man screamed. He flailed his arm in no avail for a while before grabbing a handful of Shu's hair, throwing him back with all his might. Shu cursed, blinking back tears when his head connected with the marble floor, black spots dancing behind his eyelids as he scrambled back to his knees. The man was now confident. He didn't seem to mind his bloody arm as he drove his fist to Shu's face.

But the latter was quick. Shu rolled to the side and grabbed his veil. Wrapping the ends around his knuckles he lunged at the man, ignoring the agony in his right arm and the pain in his head, he successfully wrapped it around his neck, tightening his grip watching him choke on his own saliva, clawing at the air in front of him.

He had no intention of using his fire inside this place. Though there seem to be not many things to burn and cause a major fire, he was taking no chances. "Shu!" Sasha said, sprinting towards him. Lui was nowhere at sight. She kicked the man as he spluttered and finally succumbed himself to darkness.

Shu released him, stumbling backwards. "He's not dead," Sasha informed, knowing full well how the albino was always greatly affected by these things. "We have to go."

"Lui?"

"He's blocking off the two soldiers. We don't have much time." Sasha was already hurrying up the staircase. Shu followed her, casting one last glance at Lui who was now in his view, wrestling with two soldiers who were trying to break through the ice. Shu noticed guards flooding from below the staircase and he could only pray everyone would be safe as he followed Sasha towards the topmost floor of the marble tower to find her sister.

The top floor was more spacious than any of them thought. But the interior was empty, there was not a soul in sight. They passed a sitting room where chairs were arranged in circles, the round tables polished and they were gleaming under the sunlight. Sasha gestured at one of the massive polished ebony doors carved with superficial elements and myths. He could hear the faint chattering coming from behind. The two of them came to the instant conclusion. They were inside this place.

Both of them shared a glance. Sasha nodded once more, her shaking hand reaching for the massive steel handle by the door. With a deep breath, the girl pulled it and dashed inside ready to attack any closing threat, Shu on her toe to assist her if things turned tough.

"Oh." Sasha froze, taking in the steaming baths in front of her. Half a dozen women idly chattering in the small spring pools of steaming water, all of their white skin exposed wide into the sun, stark naked.

They just broke into the bathhouse of these people.

None of them screamed, which was odd. But they did turn wondering eyes upon the two intruders. Their curiosity was evident in those hazel brown, sapphire blue, emerald green eyes. Shu, Sasha thought, spinning on her heel. However odd and dangerous the situation might be, she couldn't allow a man to be- she stopped seeing the male pressing himself to the wall. His face bright crimson, his eyes firmly shut.

Who was she kidding?

Shu was the last person to wonder upon naked bodies of women. He looked as if he wished the ground to swallow him whole.

"Oh my,'' One of the women stood and stepped gracefully out of her bath. Sasha kept her eyes trained firmly on her face as the steam rolled off her body, revealing the ivory skin underneath. She didn't seem to be bothered, nor did she seem to be embarrassed of the situation. "Who do we have here?"

"Sister!" Another voice interrupted. Sasha turned her head to the voice and there she was.

Her sister.

Her only family, staring right back at her with tear-filled eyes as if this surprise, this meeting, this person in front of her was a cruel hallucination of the air. Honey stumbled forward, her thin white robe hugging her skin as she ran into Sasha's opened arms, crying in solace and utmost love. "Sasha," The younger whimpered in her arms, her sobs mixing with the solemn atmosphere. Shu risked a glance at the two sisters, holding onto each other, comfort, relief surging through their eyes.

He smiled, it was a beautiful sight. "What took you so long?" Honey asked, pulling away. She wiped her face in vain because the tears refused to stop.

"I'm sorry," The older sibling whispered, caressing her locks, cupping her cheeks as she brought their forehead together. "I'm sorry it took me this long. But I'm here. I'm going to take you home."

Honey was nodding along. The word home itself strikes a familiar sense of warmth in her heart. "Okay." She gripped into Sasha. "I really miss home."

The woman who first broke the silence now cleared her throat. In the moment of their reunion they had momentarily forgotten the company they had. Now Sasha was back on her feet, standing in front of her sister, shielding her from the world, the rest of them, offering the protection she was deprived of all these years. "We're taking her with us," Her firm voice said, offering no ground for argument.

"Okay." The woman smiled. Shu was avoiding all their gazes, his gaze firmly planted on the marble floor. He would really be grateful if they could get out- he squeaked, almost crashing back to the wall. His right hand was still in agony and his pounding head didn't make anything better but there were two white arms wrapped around him. Someone's firm body hugging him from behind. Shu froze, wishing on all the gods that whoever the person behind him suffocating in this embrace was not naked.

"But why are you two in a hurry?" She asked, burying her face into Shu's hair. "Wait for the evening tea."

Sasha's face was fuming. "Y-you," She stuttered, "Get away from him!"

The mood shifted. The women are now more interested. "Him?" The taller woman asked, instead of letting Shu go, she tightened the grip around him, a teasing smile on her face. "Is this a male?"

Shu really wished he could disappear.

"That's ridiculous!" Another rang out, standing in front of Shu, she leaned down to his eye level and cupped his cheek, forcing him to look up and tear his gaze away from the floor. Shu kept his eyes guarded, firmly on her face. "Stay with us."

The invitation was so abrupt and sudden Shu actually considered this. He blinked, "Huh?"

"He's adorable" She cooed, pinching his cheeks. "He can stay here with us, you can take Honey with you. I'd say it's a fair gamble."

Sasha blinked.

This wasn't how it was supposed to go.

What the fuck?

"No," She said, taking a step towards Shu. She was actually worried now. Shu was trying his best to avoid looking at their bodies and the women clustering around him, trying to figure out how he's a male was not helping. In a moment of Lunacy Sasha felt Shu would combust at this point. "He already has a lover. He has to go."

"Oh?" The woman who was hugging Shu slowly released her grip. Shu was allowed a little breathing space as he felt the Hetaira standing in front of him place her finger on top of his nose, sliding it down to rest it top on his lips.

"You mean these pretty lips have been tainted?"

Shu pushed back. "I really need to go." He said, finding his voice. This was ridiculous. "I'm really sorry, but we need to leave now."

The women smiled. The person in front of him tapped his lips twice letting him go. "We were only teasing. But you being a male took us with surprise," She confessed, turning to Honey. "Your sister is finally here it seems."

The younger one nodded, "Yes. Thank you for everything. But I need to go with her."

"I'm aware." She leaned down and kissed her forehead. "We were delighted to have you here, Honey. But it seems like your journey is not to stay in this marble tower. I wish you the best life out there."

Honey nodded, her eyes filled with unshed tears. It seemed as if during the time in here she had built a solid friendship with all of them older women who treated her like their own sister. "Thank you!"

She nodded, turning back to Shu with a coy smile. "And you are always welcomed here," She teased, "To look at us when we're in here of course."

Shu flushed again. Bowed politely. Keeping his eyes firmly on the floor he flung open the door and stepped out. "He's cute." She giggled, waving Honey goodbye as they went back to their bath, enjoying the warmth.

Sasha and Honey walked out of the door to see Shu on the ground, patting against his cheeks trying to tone down the embarrassment. The girl smiled, placing a firm hand on his shoulder. "You did well."

Shu grimaced, "Shut up." He messaged his shoulder gingerly, looking down the balcony to the solitary farewell. It was quiet. Too quiet for his liking. Not a sound emanating from the battles that should be going down.

Honey was shivering in her thin bathrobe. Sasha took off the outer layer of her clothes and wrapped it around her all the while noticing that Honey's eyes were glued to Shu who were trying to make out something from the silence. "Did you think he was a she too?" She asked, smiling. Sasha was glad to have her back. Once they were out of here, they had a lot to share.

Honey shook her head, "No, it's just-" She stopped, collecting her thoughts. "I think I've met him before."

Shu turned at her sudden speculation, frowning. There was no way they had known each other but he felt that. The eerie familiarity clinging to the back of his mind. A link between them he cannot place. "That's impossible," Sasha interfered, "He's not even-"

The rest of the words were drowned out as pain exploded in his ears, a scream penetrating the still air as Shu crouched, planting his palms firmly to his ears, trying to tone down the sudden assault of agonised cries. 

I just keep writing this and realising how much I have planned for this book. Like man are we at least at the halfway point? IDK things keep getting tough ;-;