The day that the Phantom Mirage lifted it's veil, ten portals could be seen.  The portals have opened for them to enter it's dimension.  Spectators were standing on the sidelines watching as each group gathered together.  They cheered on the people who were curious enough and strong enough to go to the Phantom Mirage and try to find their fortune.  Others thought they were crazy and seeking their own deaths, but they cheered the participants anyway.  

As Cara Country's participants gathered in front of everyone, Takeshi held on to Lihua's hand as they waited for King Nao to come to the entrance of the Phantom Mirage to make his speech.  

Behind Cara Country, stood Bido Country's participants. Behind Bido Kingdom, stood Yukah Kingdom participants.  And behind them, were Meya Country then Codal Country's participants. 

King Nao arrived in his golden carriage, as everyone bowed towards him.  When he alighted the carriage, the first person he looked for was Takeshi.  Takeshi had worn a plain white shirt, white pants and a white robe, making him look like a commoner.  However no one would believe him to be a commoner.  His aura was too strong.  His looks too noble.   Lihua, who stood next to him, she too wore the same thing.  Her hair have been braided into a tail and left down, letting it swing as she walked.  The white veil covering her face, fluttered with the wind.  She too wore no fancy decorations to announce her status, but standing next to Takeshi, her presence did not disappear.  Instead it enhanced their ethereal appearance, making them seem unapproachable and unearthly.  

"Rise, participants of Phantom Mirage, guest to Cara Country and citizens of Cara.  This King salutes the brave men and women who has chosen to go into the Phantom Mirage to seek an adventure, to fight against foul beasts and to find their fortune.  Those that choose to go into the Phantom Mirage, know that there are dangers we cannot imagine.  Know that there is a chance of you not returning to this world.  To your friends.  To your family.  To your country.  There will be no glory or riches if you die in the Phantom Mirage.  Step away if you have any misgivings.  It would not be dishonorable if you chose to live instead of venturing into Phantom Mirage."  King Nao said as he stood on the stage specially built for this occasion.  

He waited to see if anyone decided not to participate in the Phantom Mirage.  When no one moved, King Nao spoke again.  

"Steady your hearts, your will, your courage.  For it will mean life and death.  A moment's hesitation will mean life and death.  An indecisive decision will mean life and death.  Steel your hearts and your mind.  Brace yourself for the unknown, for you are our best of the best.  And only the best will return.  As King to Cara Country, this King prays for your safety to return soundly and in glory.  The unveil of the 40th Phantom Mirage will commence."   

The spectators cheered on as Takeshi took the lead.  He looked at King Nao once more and nodded at him.  Letting him know that everything would be okay.  He held on tightly to Lihua's hands as he approached the first portal that seemed like it could fit two people.  He hoped by holding her hand they would pass through together and be together on the other side.  

Bringing her hands to his lips he kisses the back of her hands and walks forward into the portal.  There were no more words that needed to be said between them.  Those word have already been said last night and that morning.  Their hearts and minds were with each other and no words didn't need to be said.  

As they stepped through the portal, to their surprise Lihua's hand was forcefully pulled away from his hand.  Takeshi yelled out her name trying to grab her hand, but darkness had descended on them.  He couldn't see anything around him nor could he feel the ground beneath him.  He could only feel his body floating.  As if he was a feather, he blew in any direction that the portal carried him.  

Although he kept yelling for Lihua.  He couldn't hear her call his name back.  Steadying his heart, there was nothing he could do at the moment, so he calmed himself down and let the portal take him where it would drop him off.  

He would find her and they'll be together again.  Even if he had to destroy the Phantom Mirage to find her.  

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Hey ya'll, I hope you're enjoying yourself while reading my story. Please remember to like/share/ or comment!  Any encouragement would be greatly appreciated.  Thanks for all the love and support! Have a great day! -ptd