Silence surrounded the thin, dark girl while her curious eyes carefully comprehended each word of the thick, old book. It was something she had read countless times, just like most of the books in the library, but it never ceased to interest her.

"Trina! What're you reading today?"

The girl jerked her head, startled by the loud but friendly voice. She gave a small smile as she turned her head towards a slender man, who walked towards her with an abnormally large grin, supporting his head as he folded his arms behind it with a laid back expression on his face. His casual hair, the shade of a deep purple was something that amused her, but it had grown to become her favourite colour.

The librarian glared at the man who smiled apologetically in return, now quickening his pace. Trina slightly shook her head as she closed the book, keeping one finger on the page she read.

"Nothing much, sir. Just reading a book about the 'blood' of Shadow Beings."

"Oi. Don't call me sir. And what're you reading about our blood for?"

"What else should I call you, then?" Trina asked, keeping his second question aside for the moment. She preferred to address each matter separately.

"My name. Zeno."

Trina blinked twice, though she had expected nothing less from her mentor.

"Sir, you're thirty-two, and I'm twelve. I don't think it would be respectable for me to address you by your name."

"You're speaking formally on purpose, aren't you," Zeno murmured while slightly gritting his teeth, faking a smile. Trina only gave him an innocently confused expression at which he turned his head away immediately, shaking it furiously.

Trina giggled, breaking her serious demeanour, causing a satisfied smile to come on Zeno's face. He gave Trina a hard pat on her head, and she flinched with a nervous smile, looking at his light, blue eyes with fondness. They seemed to reflect a bright clean lake and she somehow sensed strong spiritual energy around it, though it was too strong for her comprehension.

"Now, what were you reading about the blood of Shadow Beings for?" Zeno asked in a serious tone, eyeing the book with familiarity.

"Oh, right," Trina said with a smile as she opened the book again. Along with being her teacher for shape-shifting, Zeno, like her, had a natural curiosity in history and the essence of both biological life and Shadow Beings. Visiting new places wouldn't hurt either.

"Nothing in particular. I've read it before, once. There are a few things I want to try, though I'm not sure how to go about it. Most of these pages have faded away and the others go on and on about the basic components."

Trina paused, smiling nervously as she glanced towards the book, contemplating whether she should talk about her thoughts or not. Zeno easily understood her hesitation but sat silently in patience, giving her time to think.

"What is the technique of Solis?" Trina decided to ask the question instead of explaining anything, immediately regretting it. The technique wasn't directly mentioned in any of the books she'd read. She just found it in the book she was reading.

"The technique of Solis?" Zeno rubbed his head, thinking. "What's that, solar energy?"

Trina opened her mouth, hesitating for a moment, before she shook her head.

"No, never mind. It's nothing."

Trina smiled nervously, and he gave her a weird look, shaking his head.

"You're scary you know," Zeno said in a funny tone.

"Eh?"

Trina looked genuinely confused, now giving Zeno a weird look.

"You're weird," she replied, earning a nod of pure agreement from Zeno. She chuckled gently, earning another hard pat on the head from him.

"Alright, then. I'm off - have to take a class for the little kids, now."

Trina tried to conceal her proud smile as she remembered her classes with him, even till four years back. A childish grin came on his face as he thought about it too, standing up with his hands in his pockets.

"Don't forget, training at six today," Zeno reminded her, at which Trina nodded obediently. Every Friday, she looked forward to that one hour no matter how the day went, or however she felt. She made no efforts in hiding the fact from Zeno, and he always attempted to make the time the best for her.

"Okay!" Trina exclaimed, getting mildly excited even though it had been two years since she began this one-on-one training.

Zeno put his fingers on his forehead like a salute, then flicked his fingers towards the opposite side, walking in that direction with a casual confidence. Trina shot him an unimpressed look, turning back to her book, though he didn't need to turn around to see that expression.

A gentle laugh escaped her as she shook her head, happiness filling her mind. The silence in the room settled once again, and she caught the librarian sigh with relief now that Zeno had left the large room.

Now, to think about this page, Trina thought, frowning as she eyed the faded page with a deep concentration. A barely visible image of a water body was on the page, lighter than a watermark, though Trina somehow felt that it had darkened as compared to the last time she saw it. Almost like Zeno's eyes...

Trina jerked her head, widening her eyes as realisation seemed to dawn on her. She slowly released all the tension from her physical state, just like everyone did as a warm up before shape-shifting. She freed her mind of all blocks, focusing on the sight in her teacher's eyes.

Moments of silence passed and Trina was completely unaware of her surroundings, feeling solitude in her. This is how she'd always been, peaceful in her loneliness, fascinated by the world around her. She didn't mind being the one who was neutral, who got along with everybody, but had no one.

However, when he came, she understood how it felt to have a friend, and she did like it...

Idiot Trina, she scolded herself. Focus on the lake.

Every thought completely left her. Little time passed and she slowly opened her eyes, looking at the old page with hope.

For a split second, Trina thought she saw a green glow on the paper, but it otherwise remained the same. Trina pulled on her thin braids, trying to understand why nothing had happened. She was sure that the sight in Zeno's eyes was what was supposed to be on this paper, but it was somehow hidden.

Oh right, Trina thought, remembering the mention of the technique of Solis. She figured that she would need the sun's energy to reveal the image, but borrowing the restricted books wasn't allowed to any being, other than the leaders of the squads of all the abilities. Zeno was the leader of the shape-shifters, but she knew he wouldn't borrow the book for her.

Not with that look in his eyes.

Trina rested her chin on her palm, thinking about what she should do. She suddenly felt a little drowsy, straining her eyes to keep herself awake.

Oh right! Trina realised that she could shape-shift part of herself into an animal that could harness the sun's energy. Shadow-trappers with a higher level of the ability could shape-shift into almost any material, but Trina had only just begun shape-shifting her arm into metals.

It also felt uncomfortable... but she'd just have to get used to it.

Trina shook her head, a determined look coming on her face. She had practiced shifting her left forearm into magnesium countless times, and iron would only be easier. She could use the heat it absorbed and come back to the library. Besides, she already knew how to use her own energy to form a transparent material covering her eyes. Seeing the world in different colours was an interesting perspective.

Trina continued reading the book, practicing her plan in theory as she read each and every word carefully. She didn't notice as heaviness settled in her mind, though, her green eyes visibly tired from all her reading. Her senses dulled, and she unknowingly let her head fall onto her arms, drifting into a much needed nap.

_____

Trina felt something sharp against her cheek, but only murmured a word of disapproval, too dazed to comprehend it. The sharp thingy poked her once again, though this time she stayed completely still, hoping the intruder would go away. She felt nothing more for a while - not that she paid much attention to the stinging.

A few moments of peace passed, until it stroke her the third time. Annoyed, she tried to move the thing away using her arm, only to feel the stinging multiplied.

"Ah!"

Trina woke up with a jolt, her widened eyes narrowing at the sight of a wildly grinning Zeno, who showed off his porcupine hand with great pride.

"What, I don't even, Bye."

Trina got up with an unimpressed look, walking towards the librarian with a gentle smile as she returned it, asking her to keep it safe for her as she would read it again in an hour.

"I see. You don't want to train today. Well, that's fine by me. I've got free time!"

Zeno sighed in relief, his face showing the expression of a freed prisoner. Trina swallowed, turning towards the clock with a nervous smile. It was already five minutes past five, and both teacher and student were known for their punctuality, especially Zeno.

Trina approached Zeno cautiously who gave her an innocent smile, clearly enjoying the event.

"Sorry, sir. Won't happen again, I assure you."

Zeno crossed his now thankfully human arms, frowning deeply.

"Call me Zeno."

"I can't do that. I'll call you Sir."

"Zeno."

"Sir."

"Zeno."

"Sir."

"Zeno."

"Zir."

Trina pursed her lips, widening her eyes as she immediately began to cover herself, though the smirk had already begun to grow on his face.

"Sir. Sir sir-"

"Zir is fine by me," Zeno said with a satisfied grin, and Trina sighed, letting her smile finally out.

"Zir it is," Trina said in a defeated tone, smiling at her teacher. Waves of assurance and happiness flooded her mind as her eyes her teacher's, and he dropped his casual demeanour, smiling towards her genuinely. She didn't move an inch, staying in the moment, until she felt a powerful force around him, his eyes almost glowing as if they were reflecting a blue star.

"Don't just stand there. Walk."

When Zeno turned was something Trina missed, and she shook her head, catching up with him. He appeared to be double her height, and he walked rather fast, not making it easy for Trina.

Zeno's hands rested in his pockets as he finally slowed his pace, though Trina walked fast by his side, keeping a straight posture. He turned his head towards her, smiling slightly as he rested his hand on her head, and Trina turned towards him with a smile, at which Zeno looked away. He couldn't bare the cute look.

A gentle breeze surrounded the two as they walked under the bright sun, just liked they'd done countless times. Trina truly felt safe and happy by his side, smiling deeply as she recalled her memories with him.

A familiar feeling of peace filled her as they entered the solitary training ground, the gentle grass moving a little with the wind. The smell of fresh water often confused her, but nevertheless sent feelings of comfort and safety to her. The bright sun was something she cherished, though sometimes it could get too hot, thanks to the amazing global warming. She rested in Zeno's shadow, though, whenever it was time for her break or meditation.

Not a lot of people came there since it was mostly empty, but that's what made the place so special. It was also a good distance away from the forest and the headquarters, and was probably the most secluded place in the entire area. Trina often recognised a strong spiritual force around the place, almost as if a supernova were being made, though she only felt it for a few seconds. She was sure that Zeno could comprehend the force well.

A calm look settled in his eyes as Trina faced him, giving him a gentle bow as he did the same in return. A look of discipline came on his face, though the causal mood remained.

"Let's start."

Trina gave an obedient nod before bringing her fists close to her face. A serious look settled in her eyes as she bent her knees, readying herself for attacking and blocking. The breeze now grew stronger, though the sun still shined bright, as if fuelling her energy.

The perfect weather, though she preferred a quieter breeze.

Zeno simply stood in his casual posture, nodding towards her. Trina took a deep breath, before she swung her left leg towards Zeno, aiming for his face. He took a casual step back, dodging it easily, though Trina expected him to do that.

She appreciated his silence and focused on her next move, studying his stance. It looked like he was open from every angle, but Zeno was too swift, able to shape-shift into almost anything in any situation. Simple kicks would have no effect on him.

Trina continued to aim a kick towards him, continuously approaching him. He dodged in the same manner, taking steps backward, though Trina knew he wasn't simply dodging her.

Suddenly, she shape-shifted her leg into a horse's leg as it came closed to Zeno, amplifying both its length and strength. A subtle smirk came on Zeno's face as he ducked quickly, squatting on his knees. Trina stopped her kick in mid-air, bringing it down towards his head. Zeno frowned a bit, raising his hand to block his head.

How did he do it so fast? Trina thought, unable to contain her surprise. Then again, Zeno was full of surprises.

Trina shape-shifter her leg to normal, standing still as she took a moment to collect herself. Zeno stood up with a genuine smile, keeping his eyes on Trina, though she felt comfort and not insecurity.

"Think with a different mind-set, Trina. You have a lot of intellect in that brain of yours, but it's all in one place."

"Search. Focus."

Trina sighed, eyeing her surroundings carefully, while focusing at Zeno. There was nothing she could use to her advantage in an empty space, and shape-shifting completely into an animal could only be achieved at the highest level.

She increased her concentration, searching for the tiniest detail that could help her. Weapons weren't allowed in the training to simply improve raw skill, but with such difference in experience, Trina didn't understand how she could get Zeno to attack her.

Focus.

Trina took a sharp breath, realisation coming to her. Without closing her eyes, she felt the heat around, letting every detail surround her. As time slowly passed, she was able to recognise the spiritual energy of the area better.

Right, she thought. This is a good opportunity for me to use it.

She shape-shifted a little part of her wrist to iron, keeping it hidden. She once again began her series of rapid kicks, though this time she aimed for his chest, not allowing him to dodge in the same manner in an attempt to make his movement difficult, though it barely worked.

After a while, Trina punched behind Zeno's neck, shape shifting it into an Eagle's wing at the last second. She brought her left arm towards his nose, but it stopped a few inches away due to her short height.

Zeno smirked, looking at Trina with a funny look, though her face remained serious as her concentration increased deeply with every second. Suddenly, Zeno frowned as a sharp blade stared at him, only a centimetre away from his nose. His quick reflexes recognised it immediately, and he hit Trina's hand backwards with his bare arms, the force being enough to push her back as she let go willingly, happy with her reward.

"You finally attacked me," Trina said with a grin, sighing in relief. "After six years."

"Technically, it's only been two years since you started this training with me," Zeno said with a proud smile, a bright light shining in his eyes. Trina saw something peculiar in them, before Zeno turned his head towards the ground, putting his hand back into his pockets.

"You don't actually know what you've done, do you?"

Trina looked at him in confusion, though she had a vague guess of what he was talking about.

"You truly have wonderful intellect. I've never doubted the fact that you're my best student."

A shy look came in Trina's eyes as her mentor turned towards the sky, a sweet smiling coming onto his face, a distant look in his eyes. Trina thought that he blended perfectly with the Nature, like a great force in the midst of all the open land. His purple hair almost glowed, the breeze greeting it as an old friend. His black clothes complimented the peace, as if it's courageous face were protecting the place from all danger.

Trina didn't know what to think, other than admire him. Her look of awe didn't disappear for a second as Zeno turned towards her, a proud, large smile coming on his face.

"Come, it's time you start learning it. You've earned it."

Trina didn't question him as he started walking further into the empty garden, moving away from the headquarters. She was already in a trance, completely relying on the man in front of her.

The air was now cool as the sun almost set, a gentle breeze moving between her braids. Zeno closed his eyes, a smile on his face as he walked with his head towards the ground. A strong smell of fresh water hit her, cleansing her mind.

Water?

Zeno suddenly stopped and gestured for Trina to hold his hand, and she complied, relaxing with a calm look. Zeno's sweet smile warmed her, as she closed her eyes.

"Focus."

Trina's little fingers wrapped around one of Zeno's, and she felt a tranquil power vibrate from it.

Her sense of spiritual energy increased, recognising the deep currents of various energies that she didn't understand. After years of meditation, concentration was something that came rather easily to her, but the overwhelming force of these currents were too strong to simply let go off, once you grasped them.

The atmosphere around her suddenly lightened, the light surrounding her entire being. She didn't know where she was, but the amount of force that hit her made her sure that it was completely out of the ordinary. Her mind controlled it's curiosity as she kept her eyes closed, holding her breath.

"Open your eyes."

Trina breathed in awe as she stared at the glittering blue lake surrounded by thick, dark grass. It were almost as if it was day in the sky and night in the lake, thousands of stars shimmering in it that didn't look like mere reflections. The serene sensation here was something Trina had never experienced, and being with him surprisingly made it better.

It was the lake she saw in his eyes.

"Sit down," Zeno said gently, and Trina immediately did so, her little green eyes filled with curiosity. Zeno did the same, both sitting with straight backs, facing each other. Trina almost felt a blue glow radiate from his kind face, like ripples in the water playing with reality's reflection.

"Do you know about Zeal Desruct?" Zeno asked in a serious tone, and Trina replied with a wary nod.

"Somewhat. It's a power of Shadow-trappers that's associated with fire, right?"

"Yes and no. It is a power of Shadow-trappers and only them, yes, but no, it isn't associated with fire. Not exactly."

Trina wore a curious look at which Zeno smiled, relieved that she felt no uncomfortable with their conversation.

"Zeal Desruct is a technique of Solis."

Trina widened her eyes, but shook the feeling of surprise quickly. She was sort of expecting it.

"The technique of Solis is a move that harnesses the Sun's energy to create an object of its power or composition, may that be for offence, defence, improving your surrounding aura or even for making meals."

Zeno's straight face as he said the last words almost cracked Trina, but she too remained serious, following her teacher's lead.

"Zeal Desruct is only one type of a technique of Solis out of many, and the technique of Solis is one out of seven."

"Seven? Do you mean that each one is associated with a Land of quintessence?"

"Why did I expect you to know that," Zeno said with a sigh, smiling subtly, and Trina returned the innocent smile.

"It isn't associated with each of them, though. More like it is based on them. The symbolism of the technique is related to a land, though the actual thing and power is completely different. Here, let me show you."

Zeno took a deep breath before slowly lifting his hand, bringing it close to his chest. A few moments of deep silence passed, and Trina felt the spiritual energy concentrate near his palm, almost as if it held gravitational power. Suddenly, a strong wind blew, as their surroundings seemed to dull, or his hand simply brightened as strong as the sun.

A powerful blue radiated from his eyes, moving towards his palm, joined by a bright yellow descending from the sky. Zeno swiftly moved his palm outwards, as an electrifying bolt came in his hands, the air settling gently.

Adrenaline rushed within Trina at the speed of light, now unable to comprehend the bright sight in front of her. She was transported to a different world, she was sure of it. This thrill wasn't ordinary.

The atmosphere settled, and the bolt glowed softly, emitting a power of a degree beyond her grasp, blue sparks igniting in several places. A satisfied smile was on Zeno's face, as he turned towards Trina, laughing immediately.

"W-what."

Zeno continued to laugh, holding his bolt firmly, but kept it away in case he got too excited and released its power, though Trina was sure he would never make such a mistake.

Zeno finally controlled himself, taking a deep breath as he did so. Trina's eyes were still widened, but a burning curiosity lay in them, as if ready to learn all the knowledge in one day.

Zeno stood up, stretching his other hand outwards as a grey light formed in it, attracting particles from the atmosphere. A heavy feeling passed over Trina as the light subsided, revealing a strong rod of a grey compound.

"Not a very strong material, but I think it should be enough for a demonstration."

Zeno threw the rod into the air, immediately motioning his finger towards it. In a flash, the substance disappeared as a blue spark hit it, all sign of its particles being lost.

"I see," Trina said after a moment of observation, an excited look in her eyes.

"You separated the molecules of the allotrope. That must be the power of your bolt, right?"

"That is one of the powers of my bolt. Maybe one day I'll show you all the powers I know. The technique of Solis grants an individual weapon, or a Yuran to each Shadow-trapper. Though two Yurans can be similar in their ability, they will never be the same at a specific time, just like how know two Shadow-trappers have the same name in the present."

Trina nodded continuously, paying an extremely close attention to each word. Zeno grinned at her interest, though she didn't seem to notice as a few hundred questions formed in her mind.

"What was that, though? The way you formed the particle? It didn't seem like the technique of Solis."

"You're too perceptive. That's because it isn't the technique of Solis. It's the technique of Liber. A technique that deals with materialism, and sort of resembles what humans know as alchemy. That's what you did with the metal on your hand."

"Eh?"

Trina looked at Zeno with pure confusion, a weird frown coming on her face. She looked at her arm, though the metal was no more on her hand.

"You thought that was shape-shifting?"

"Yes."

"If you would've done that, the layer of iron wouldn't be formed on your skin, but would replace your skin. And that is very dangerous. I'll tell you about it some other day, but shape-shifting into a particular element can kill you."

But shape-shifting into an entire creature is safe, Trina thought, rolling her eyes.

"Don't roll your eyes at me, young lady," Zeno said with an unimpressed look, causing Trina to smile nervously. Zeno shook his head, flicking his hand to let the bolt disappear as he walked towards Trina, giving her a nice, long, hard pat with a fond look in his eyes. Trina rubbed her head soothingly, glaring at Zeno.

Zeno chuckled, narrowing his eyes as his dimples showed, his hair flying wildly. Trina broke into a small smile, and moments of comfort passed, relieving her of worldly matters.

"There is one thing you must understand, Trina."

Trina looked up as a serious expression settled on Zeno's face, a strong desire reflecting in his eyes. The humour in his voice was now no more, only kindness and knowledge reflecting in it.

"These seven techniques are the true power of Shadow Beings. Over the last few centuries, around a millennia, us shadow-trappers have lost the knowledge of these techniques. I'm not sure how and why this happened, but our current weapons, our blades, are the basic level of weapons forged by the technique of Liber. Yes, it cleanses demons of their negative energy, but it also kills them. That is wrong.

"There are a few Shadow-trappers who've used these techniques unknowingly, like you just did, and a few who have a good knowledge about it, like me. We had a little group, though there are only three left, who are alive, including me.

For a brief second, a grim and sorrowful look came in Zeno's eyes, though he shook it away quickly, putting on his casual smile.

"That's why, I want you to start learning these techniques. We'll slowly introduce it to the others too, but first, we need the necessary knowledge. You'll know it once you find it."

Trina nodded happily, glad that she could be of any use to him. He knew that once he received her obedient nod, she would make his words her goal.

"Don't worry, Trina. You'll always find someone you can work with. There are countless Shadow-trappers with the same wish as ours; to not kill demons. Besides, I have full faith in you."

Trina gave him a small nod, suppressing her proud smile, and he smiled, sighing.

"Be very careful when you practice, alright? Until you can learn to hide your spiritual power from others, continue to practice here."

Trina gave a nod, and Zeno finally went back to his normal stance. Trina noticed now that his hair was a huge mess with all the wind blowing, but she sensed something strong from it.

"Well, then. I think this is enough for today?" Zeno said with a nod, not giving Trina a chance to protest.

Suddenly, Trina felt a cold, mindless presence behind her, freezing her in her position. It was an unfamiliar sensation, one she would never want to witness. It only began to amplify, sending harsh shivers through her nerves, her chest pained by the cold.

Her fearful eyes settled on her mentor's eyes, a bewildered look in them. He quickly shook it off with the fierce, blue gaze that reassured her, holding that look.

The look of protection.

Trina couldn't read his face at all. She didn't recognise this look of seriousness and regret he tried hiding.

She, for once, didn't understand what was going on.

Suddenly, the spiritual energy of the land greatly amplified, and a strong, blue current revolved around Zeno, his face hard with concentration. His strong power battled on par with the increasing cold sting.

Zeno looked towards Trina, giving her the kindest smile she'd ever seen, before he flicked his finger towards her. A thin but strong spark took hold of her, swiftly taking her away, keeping her at a great distance from the invaders. The wind rushes faster than it had ever done before, until she came to a gentle stop, the spark expanding into a large shield as it protected her.

Trina's vision blurred as her mind froze, unaware of her surroundings. She couldn't see who emitted the shrewd aura, she couldn't see the peaceful surroundings. All that rested in her eyes was a gentle, blue glow.

Her mind suddenly felt dizzy, and she fell to the ground, sitting up loosely with a helpless look. Suddenly, as moments passed, a large, blue flame lit up the area, keeping its distance from Trina. It was as if rain and light had become one, purifying even the tiniest shred of sins. Though it went hand in hand with Nature, it broke the bonds of all creatures, including the wielder.

The last thing she saw was his gentle smile amidst the blue before she fell to the ground, darkness engulfing her.

- - - - -

Her heart beat fast as she suddenly opened her eyes, breathing rapidly. She took her time to calm down, sitting up slowly with an exhausted look in her eyes.

"Trina. How are you feeling, dear?"

Trina turned to her left to see two children around her age, a girl with grey eyes, and a boy with messy hair that somehow brought a kind look to his brown eyes.

Her eyes trailed towards the tall woman, her dark skin complimenting her serious face well, though there was some kindness in her grey eyes.

"I'm fine, mother," Trina said, not paying attention to her own words. Only one person mattered to her right now.

"Where's Zeno?"

Her mother took a deep breath, a solemn but genuine look of sorrow coming into her eyes.

"I'm sorry, dear. He-"

Trina didn't wait for any explanation, she didn't need it, and she waited for no impossible last hope. She ran back to the place, her surroundings and everything else a blur. It just didn't matter.

The empty land was the same, perhaps even brighter, now. Remnants of his power still lingered in the air, and she could feel the blue currents on an emotional level. The land was sorrowful, but it stayed together, fulfilling its duty.

Trina fell to her knees, no tears coming to her. The sun didn't shine, the wind didn't blow, but the gentle peace remained. Her mind only recalled his laugh full of life, his cheeky grin, and that look.

That look killed him. If she hadn't been there, he wouldn't have any obstacles. He wouldn't have used such an amount of energy in demonstration. She didn't know how he defeated them, but she could guess what it was.

Zeal Desruct. Unless one had an unimaginable amount of power, no one could use the technique without destroying their physical body, too. The Flames of the technique were far too powerful, a catalyst for purification as well as destruction.

I have full faith in you.

An awoken look came into Trina's eyes as she remembered his words. She knew that the demonic creatures were responsible for it, for however and why it happened. But after everything he told her over the years, she simply couldn't afford to hold hatred against them. Not if it was his wish.

These mixed feelings were something completely new to her. She believed she wasn't strong enough to completely remove the negativity.

It's okay, Tri-tri! Take your time.

Trina's head jerked towards the sky as a past memory filled her head, the funny voice of a tall one encouraging a little child as he taught her for the first time. His purple hair and blue eyes shone in the monochrome picture, of black and white.

Deep sorrow filled her heart, and she wanted nothing more than him to just be there. A single tear finally fell, and she could feel comforting drops of water on her skin. His laugh echoed in her mind endlessly, his gently humorous voice now the only thing she could hear.

Trina curled up on the grass, her fingers holding onto the grass of memories. In this place, she truly felt the closest to him, and there was nothing more she could do for the moment. She wanted to visit that land again, but she didn't know how to get there. She didn't know how to use the technique of Solis, she didn't even know what the other techniques' names were. And the worst of all, she didn't even know what had happened.

Trina didn't like this. She didn't like the feeling of not knowing anything, but if he had faith in her, she would make it her life's mission to know about it all. She knew she shouldn't tell everyone about it, not just for trust, but for their safety. If the right person came along, she would recognise them.

For now, her energy melted into the land's and perhaps even his, as a longing, sorrowful peace surrounded her. This empty feeling of grief was foreign to her. But his energy wasn't. His friendship wasn't.

As Trina closed her eyes, a comforting, blue blanket wrapped itself around her, swearing to protect her. His memories and words filled her head, and the wind begin to blow softly once again. The droplets of rain on her skin relieved her of her worries, but nothing could take the feeling of longing.

Trina drifted into a gentle sleep, the land and the blue protecting her from all evils. She knew that she wasn't alone, but her emotions no more mattered. What she had to do was clear in her head, and she would sort her emotions along the way.

The world faded from her sight with a blue spark, it's playful demeanour making her laugh. It's faith and promise brought assurance to her mind, as she slept for the night.

The sun will rise again tomorrow.

----- -------

Audrey sat still as the wind rustled through her hair, a feeling of utter shock filling her mind. A heavy weight rested on her mind as she comprehended all that she saw.

"Don't you think I should've asked her first, if she was okay with me knowing about this?"

The breeze blew past her ear and Audrey sighed.

"I suppose this comes as a responsibility of being the leader. Perhaps I should go meet her."

She gently stood up as she left the powerful land, making way towards her friend's sanctuary.

The empty land hadn't changed in the slightest over all the years, and it looked just as it had in the tale Audrey had just seen. A gentle, blue aura was enveloped around the land, though there were wisps of yellow in it, bringing a tender sensation to her mind. Still, it also held a great force. It gradually increased as Audrey walked into the land slowly, and a new emotion of protectiveness merged, surrounding the thin girl that balanced on her index finger, as still as the wind.

"Hey, Audrey. I was expecting you."

Trina lifted her hand and turned her body, landing on her legs softly. A small smile was on her a face, accompanied by a knowing look. Her green eyes gently glowed, merging with the aura of the place.

"You know about it now, don't you? About what happened here."

Audrey gave her a slow nod and she responded with a little smile, sighing.

"How did you know about me knowing about this? Not that it surprised me."

Audrey laughed gently and a smile came on Trina's face, humbled by her compliment.

"I know about Paliv Verasel, and it happened on this day, eleven years ago."

Audrey pursed her lips, smiling through it. Trina only shook her head, gesturing that she was over it and that Audrey should relax now.

"Is there anyone else who you told?"

Trina gave a slow nod, a sad look coming in her eyes.

"Elek."

Audrey's eyes widened, and she realised that there was something more about Elek's death that they didn't know. She shook her head, letting a kind look come into her eyes.

"We'll figure it out together, okay? You tell me what you know, and I'll tell you what I know.

"You have Zeno's words in your mind, and Elek's words in your mind and in that book. I'm sure that there are many things left undiscovered, but your intellect has answers."

Trina gave a smile in gratitude, nodding her head.

"Your raw power is very strong, Audrey. With and without your angelic powers," Trina said gently. a confused look came in Audrey's eyes, a little empty feeling nagging at her chest.

"After the fire burnt me, I felt my force diminish. But after you healed me, it was even better than before."

Trina closed her eyes and gently moved her hand, forming a bolt of the colour of her eyes, the green sparks igniting with a sense of pride, though little, excited blue sparks accompanied it in places. A heavy feeling of knowledge weighed in the atmosphere, as Audrey's eyes widened at the bluish-green aura surrounding her friend.

"My Yuran is quite similar to Zeno's, though its powers and appearance are a little different. I'm close to mastering it, so I'll show it to you some other day."

Trina waved her hand as the green light disappeared, a small smile coming on her face. Audrey still didn't fully understand the need to hide such things from others, especially after all that had happened, but she respected their wished and didn't question.

A gentle air blew, and Audrey felt cold drops of water on her skin, cooling it against the hot sun. The temperature over the years had certainly increased, but she had a feeling that the lake still protected the land.

"We're moving towards the past, Audrey. Everything that was once lost needs to be found it again," Trina said with a distant look in her eyes, earning a slow nod from Audrey.

Audrey turned towards the sun, looking at it directly. She sensed a powerful energy from the ball of gas, though it was accompanied with signs of danger. She was confident, that they would know what they needed to know soon enough. They had everything, but it was just scattered all over the place.

She was the one, who was supposed to piece it together.