Saere

A novel by Harlequin

Prologue

Fire was everywhere. Colors decorated the sky. Debris flew in her face as well as dust. A small, little 5-year-old child wandered through the haze of people. Tripping over the dead bodies of humans. “MAMA!” she screamed.

“Saere!” a woman cried out. She ran towards her daughter and held her close.

“Mama, what is going on?” she asked.

“It’s a big war. The Vereor are trying to kill us again. But I won’t let them kill you.” she cried. She turned and saw a woman there, smirking evilly. “No…” she whispered.

“Give me the child.” the other woman cooed.

“No!” she screamed as she drew a shield around the young child. “You will not touch this child!” she shouted. She summoned the strongest forces and knocked the woman out of her way. “Listen to me, Saere. There is another line that the Prophecy doesn’t have. Alone, one can’t save the world. Singularis et Singulara. A male and a female One. One of old barrier and one of new. It is up to you to find it. The Vereor will rise again and our people need you and Aaron to stop them. Is that clear?”

“Yes, mama.” A bomb exploded near them. She cried out in fright as her mother held her close and trudged on. “Mama, were are we going?”

“We’re going to your Uncle Daniel’s. He’s gonna take care of you for a whi--” she was cut off by the explosion behind them which sent them flying towards the ground.

The woman’s body hit the ground hard enough to shatter every bone in her body. The child, however, was still in perfect health. “Mama?” she asked tentatively as she shook the dead woman’s shoulder. “Mama?”

“Saere…g-go to Uncle Daniel’s. He’ll know w-what to…to do.” She smiled weakly to show that she’d be alright. “When your eighteenth year has come, go find the One.” She coughed at the smoke. “And r-remember, S-Saere, Mommy L-loves you…v-v-v-very much.” And with that, her dark eyes closed forever.

The child started to weep. She didn’t care if she died too. She didn’t care of the Vereor heard her. All she cared was that she was alone in this world. Everyone she had loved and loved her had died. “I love you, mama. I promise to bring an end to this.”

One

Saere scanned her surroundings; her steel eyes surveying for spies upon the slick city. New age, as she expected; the walls were either white or silver. Cold, and lack of heart. Yes, this was Sallowrane. Her home there was not much different. Same cold walls and new age technology on the outside but inside, she had decorations of her ancestors.

Saere wasn’t bad looking. To her opinion, wasn’t good looking either. True, she inherited her mother’s dark raven hair that reached a bit past her shoulders and her father’s deep blue eyes that could kill. But she also had two metal scars under her eyes. An accident with a Vereor; which made her hate them even more. She stood tall to 5’ 3” and wore only a black cat suit with a tan trench coat and attached boots; typical Free Ta’oth attire.

In this New Age, only three races exist. Humans have been dead for a long time. Color was not a matter anymore. Well, skin color that is. Magic now shrouded earth. And color was very important for survival. Powerful magic too. A new breed of humans now populates the Earth. Saere sighed. She was there when it happened. Young but she was there. She was barely a child. She saw how the colors burst from everyone. She remembered her mother telling her a story that a friend wrote. It predicted almost everything that the Ta’oth/Ta’nil and Vereor would do.

“Mama…” she whispered. Mama was a wonderful writer. But all of her work was anonymous. Saere couldn’t remember much of her mother. Granted, the last time she saw her mother was when she was 5. The world collapsed. Families were split apart and nearly constant war corrupted the earth. Now, only 3 cities/countries exist. Altornilnia for the Ta’oth and Ta’nil. Vernoreene for the Vereor. But there were a few small, independent countries and islands. Like Sallowrane which once was a part of California USA. Only that, Cristenine once was Florida, Ferdinaine that once was Kentucky, and Keiastairre that was once was Hawaii were free from the magical war.

Saere wanted to end the war, though. The Prophecy happened but it didn’t end anything. Only made it worse, Saere bitterly grumbled. But there was something her mother left for her that puzzled and even challenged the Prophecy. Saere reached into her mind. “Alone, one can’t save the world. Singularis et Singulara. One of old barrier and one of new.” her mother had said.

“So there is a female One and a male One?” she had asked.

“Yes, only their power could save this world. I have foreseen that you, daughter, will be one of those. A great combat will pursue. And you, Saere, will lead peace unto the world. You must find…the One.”

“I promise, mama. I promise I will kill Louis for killing you.” she vowed. She walked upon the stone street, hoping that the house at the end of it was still there. She felt a presence behind her. She curled her left middle finger to activate the scanner. A drunkard, but his colors were so out of place. Her head cringed at the pain his color caused. She curled her thumb to activate her blade. A color-blind and drunk Vereor. With a swift movement, she spun around and slashed his body in 2. Saere was no ordinary Ta’oth. Uncle Daniel sent her to an Ange Agent School. Her heart was iced, he’d remark. A strong warrior; a skilled fighter, but she couldn’t love.

“Just like your mother.” Uncle Daniel would whisper. She’d look at him coldly. “No heart. Frozen over. An iced heart.” He’d sigh and shake his head.

“Well, Uncle, it takes a strong warrior to survive this world.” Saere’d hiss at him. Sometimes, she wondered why she was so cold to her uncle. Perhaps because they weren’t related by blood? Or maybe she didn’t want to be loved after her mother died? It was something. She was bound to find out soon. She HAD to. She had to find her past and save her future.

She hurmphed and snapped her fingers to put away her blade. She continued her trek up the beaten path. She had to find the One. She had to ask him and the Elders about what her mother uncovered. Most of all, she had to find herself.

Two

Jorryn Bryan Carter sighed as he looked out the window. It was this day that his mother died because of a Vereor. Now, everyday, other people die. His father never let him outside. He longed to be outside. He tried to argue with his father that he didn’t want to stay in the large, homey mansion for the rest of his life. He wanted adventure in the real world. Not exploring the many empty rooms. He wanted to see where Uncle Aaron lived. Not where his father studied everyday. He watched as the raindrops fell and gently tapped the windowsill.

The doorbell rang. Jory jumped. No one had visited them other than family and friends. Dad chased off anyone else. He walked over to the door and opened it. He looked and gasped.

There stood a girl in black leather and a trench coat, sopping wet; glaring at him from under her dark bangs. “Are you going to let me in or stand there all night?” she asked bitterly.

“Who’s there, Jory?” asked his dad.

“Uh…”

“Nick, you gonna let me in or are you gonna let an old friend stay out in the rain?” she snapped. She sighed. “I’ve been told this is Ta’oth Research headquarters.”

“But that’s only…” his father trailed off.

“I know. Mama told me. Move, peppy.” She shoved him to one side and easily passed through the barrier Nick held up. She reached out her colors towards him and laughed when Jory became shocked at the sight of the dark and light opal strands that fused around her. “What’re you staring at?” she snapped. I said what’re you staring at.

What?

Dumbass, you were staring at me. Why?

Uh…

Great answer. They both turned when they heard someone’s voice cough.

“Saere, it’s been a long time.” Nick quietly whispered.

“13 years, oldie. Now siddown, I gotta talk to ya.” She stormed in and pushed the older man down. “You too, J.” She used her power to sit him down onto the couch with his father. “Listen, me ma uncovered something long before the Prophecy. Singularis et Singulara. A male and a female One. One of old and new barriers.”

“But that challenges--”

“It challenges the Prophecy, I know. And I also know that you know the One from the Prophecy. Where is he?” Nick paused. “Look, old man, I’m kinda in a hurry. I have to stop an apocalypse, y’know?”

“Uh, right.” Nick shuffled over to the cabinet where he hid his address book. “It seemed like yesterday, I saw your mother among those people.” He paused. “She was lost and confused. She didn’t what to do or where to go. I remember turning around and see the look of sheer calmness on her face. She reached out to me and told me to look after you. to check in once in a while because she knew she was going to die.”

“Was she Vereor?” she spat.

“No,” he whispered and closed his eyes to hold back the tears. “No. She wasn’t Vereor, or Ta’nil, or Ta’oth. She possessed powers that were farther than of all three races. She sacrificed everything for your safety. She was the one who studied more than Mike did.” His face grew solemn.

“Make it fast.” Saere barked. Nick said no more and got out the ancient address book. “And you, what are you staring at?” she asked.

“You never smile.” Jory noticed. “And your colors change rapidly. Like it’s green one minute then white the next, then orange. It’s like a whole mess of colors.” His colors unconsciously reached out towards her’s and tangled them.

Hey! Watch where you’re going! She pushed him out of her mind; raising a shield. She shown no expressions but Nick knew that they were talking briefly. Tell your son to keep out of my mind.

Will do. “Jorryn, can I talk to you in the study for a second?”

“Sure, dad.” They walked into the small, closed off room beside the living room. As soon as the door shut, Jory sealed it.

“Jory, why do you keep trying to talk to Saere?”

“What do you mean?”

“Son, remember, I can see colors too. I see that you’re always trying to reach her.” He leaned against the large, Oakwood desk. “Is there something you want to tell me?”

“I-I’ve never talked with another Ta’oth before.”

“That’s silly. You talk with your uncles and aunts all the time.”

“But this is different, dad.” Jory sighed. “It’s like I’m attracted to her. My colors just go towards her at their own will. I can’t control them. It’s like…god, it’s so hard to explain. It’s like I need to touch her, to tell myself that she’s real.”

“Jory, let me tell you something. Saere’s mother was one of my best friends. She was cool; very friendly. Sorta flirtatious. But other than that, she’s very kind at heart. She saved many lives during the Great War. She was, what we used to call, a shrew. Cold to anyone who came too close for comfort. If you kissed her, it was like her soul left her body. She claimed she was ugly but every guy thought she was the most beautiful girl to have walked the earth. Now, I love your mother very much but if I was her age, I would’ve fallen for her too. Lucky Gene. He got to her.” Nick sighed. “She died bravely. She protected Saere from everything until the meds picked her up. Poor girl didn’t make it.”

“Wow…” he breathed. Now he understood why she was so sour. She was delicate under all that tough exterior. Her mother died as well as a father she never knew, boot camp, and no love. His dad and family had loved him, they still do. His mother loved him. “Dad…”

“Yes, Jory?”

“Can I go with Saere?”

“Absolutely not!” he replied.

“But dad, I’ll learn stuff on the way. How to protect myself; how to live outside; how to be me.” Jory pleaded. “Please, dad?”

Nick sighed. “Ok, I’ll take this out to Saere and YOU get packing. It’s a long trip to Cristenine. You sure you can handle it?”

“Yes!” he replied as he rushed to his room to gather his things. He rushed about, flinging clothes and books into the compact backpack. It’ll be just like the movies, he thought to himself. Adventure, romance possibly, and action. Jory returned o the living room to find that the girl was glaring at him.

“This mission is no place for little boys.” She turned to look at Nick. “Does he know how to fight?” Nick looked everywhere else besides her. “Has he been trained?”

“Yes.” Nick finally replied.

“Really? How did he pass the One Year?” she asked while studying the boy.

“With flying colors. Er…no pun intended.” Nick attempted.

“No comment.” She looked at Jory in his dark blue eyes. “This journey is no place for children. Are you sure you can handle bloodshed?”

“Yes.”

“Back-stabbing pirates?”

“Yes.”

“Seductive mistresses that would lure you in and kill you?”

“Y-yes.”

“Ah, you’ve faltered. You can’t come.” She smirked; jumped up and snatched the piece of paper with the address. She walked out of the living room and down the hall.

“C’mon! You’ve got to take me with you! It’ll be like an adventure!”

“One, it is not for children. Two, it’s not an adventure. Three, it is a dangerous mission. I don’t have the Elders’ permission to do this. Farewell.” She turned out the door but a strong hand clasped over her wrist. “Let…go.”

“No. Not until you let me come with you.” he said firmly.

“No.” she hissed. She threw her arm backwards and tried to punch his face but his hand caught her fist. She carefully set her pack down and shielded it before turning to him. “Give me your worst.” He carefully jabbed at her but she easily blocked each blow. She directed his arms up as she kicked him in the stomach. He landed hard against the foyer table. “I said your best not your worst.” He tried to make a sweeping kick but she jumped and punched him in the face. “Fool, you aren’t ready for the outside world. Fights are more serious than this.” She held out her hand towards his chest and closed her fist. She slowly pulled her hand back as Jory’s face showed an expression of extreme pain. He clutched his chest. It felt like she was ripping out his heart.

“STOP IT!” cried out Nick. “STOP! You’re hurting him!” She waited a while before letting go.

“That’s what you learn on the road. People are more dangerous. What I did was merely a demonstration.”

“I’ll toughen up, I promise.”

“Jory, you are not ready for the outside world.” Saere sighed. “Fine, you’ll come. But it’s not my fault if he does not come back alive, you hear?” she asked.

“Why do we have to hike when we can just teleport?”

“Because teleporting would be like a beacon to the Vereor. Now come on!” she shouted as she grabbed her pack and grabbed his arm.

“PRUDENS ET CAUTIO! SALVOUS BEATUS!” Nick called out. “And save this world from its own apocalypse.”

Three

Jory squinted against the sun. it’s been weeks since they started their trek. Already they’ve encountered various types of Ta’nil and Ta’oth. During their weeks of traveling, much of Saere’s skills have rubbed off onto Jory. Now he could hold out on his own. His skin had tanned from a pallid tone to a healthy brown shade. Now, they rested in Joe’s Tavern And Hotel going over the map.

“Jorryn, pay attention!” she snapped. But still, Jory thought, she’s cold as dry ice. “We have about 10 more miles to travel. This neighborhood is full of Ta’oth and Ta’nil. Barely a Vereor in the street. That’s where you come in handy, my friend.” She sipped her cup of tea. He watched as her colors swirled with anticipation. He had been watching her; studying to see what he could come up with. He watched her sleep, write notes, study maps, eat, drink, walk, everything. But she still shrouded herself in an enigma he was bound to figure out.

Saere had been well aware of Jory’s watching. The boy daydreamed too much. She had stopped explaining a short while ago and took a sip of her drink. She was well aware that he studied her anytime he could; while she was sleeping, writing notes, studying maps, eating, drinking, if he wasn’t her traveling companion, she would swear he’s a stalker. She looked at his colors. A deep sapphire and jade. She didn’t know why the boy was so fascinated by her. She was normal. Or as normal as she could be, rather.

Out of nowhere, she sensed something. She watched as Jorryn raised his hand nonchalantly and knocked a sneaking Vereor off the balcony. His power amazed her. Stronger than anyone else she’d ever seen but still frail and vulnerable. “I’m amazed, Carter. You’ve come very fast and far from what you were when I first met you in Sallowrane.”

He blushed and stared at his drink.

“Come on. After you’ve finished, we’re going to walk the rest of the 10 miles.” She paid the bill as Jorryn picked up his pack. They walked out of the restaurant and onto the road.

“Hey, small fry!” a gruff voice called out. “How about you and me fight? If I win, I get your girl.” They smiled at Saere’s supposedly weak form.

“She’s not my girlfriend.” Jory replied.

“Then you don’t mind if I take her right now.” He grabbed her arm and yanked her over to his side. He grinned evilly down at her. He was about to kiss her when he felt a sharp punch into his cheek. He staggered back. He didn’t have time because Jory gave him a strong kick to the gut. He pulled out his broadsword and held it against the man’s jugular.

“You let her go right now.” Jory hissed. “Or I make sure you have a slow and painful death.”

The man was shaking and quickly let go of Saere. They began to walk down the path to Cristenine in utter silence. “Thank you.” she finally said. “I never knew you had that much power. I also never knew that you were protective.”

“You’re my friend. I protect friends and family.” Jory replied, shyly. But not like that, he added. “Come on, I think I know a hotel around here we can stay at tonight.” He started walking but Saere stood still. “Wassamatter?” he asked quickly. She placed a finger to her lips. She made a motion of dragging her thumb down her nose. Simultaneously, they launched an attack and high kicked the Vereor in opposite directions. More surrounded them.

“Dance.” Saere instructed.

“What?” he asked in surprise.

“Dance.” You do know how to dance, right?

Of course I do. They both took fighting stances before Jory began to dance a dance everyone had forgotten from a long time ago. Saere counted off the beats and soon joined him. They plucked the notes from the air around them.

“Everybody yeah…yeah…rock your body yeah…yeah…everybody yeah, rock your body right…Backstreet’s back, alright!”

Their combined explosion sent the Vereor flying in many directions. Saere looked at the dead man in wonder. “We…we did this?” she asked.

“I thought we could always do that.” Jory asked.

“But simultaneously. No one had been able to do that since ages.” Saere replied. “…Unless they are connected in some way.” She reached into her pack and drew out a small communicator. “Come in, Nick.”

Jory’s face lit up as he saw his father’s face appear on the screen. “Saere? Jory? Oh thank god you’re both safe.” Nick sighed in relief.

“Yeah, whatever. We need to know something.” Saere relayed the events of what has just happened to the older man. “So what do you think it is?”

“Well, it might or might not be Aestos.” Nick chuckled. “Jory’s mom and I had that.”

Saere rolled her eyes. “Spare me the details.”

“Anyway, we did some pretty cool stuff but we weren’t able to channel each other as good as you two.” Nick paused to think. “I’ll do some research on it. Jory, how are you doing?”

“Pretty good, dad. Why didn’t you tell me the world was so much fun?” asked Jory.

“I didn’t want you to get hurt.” Nick’s eyes stormed. “Anyway, you have friends waiting in Cristenine. They were friends of mine. Uncle Aaron and Aunt Britney are willing to share room with you two. Brianna should be there to help as well. Where are you right now?”

“Just the city’s outskirts.”

“Get moving. No one is getting any younger.” Nick replied as he faded. She looked over to Jory.

“Tears you, doesn’t it?” she asked. He nodded. “Try living the most of your life seeing your parents only in dreams.” She spit to the side as they again began to walk down the dusty road. “My mom died when I was five. I never met my dad.”

“My mom died when I was three. Vereor death. She was the ‘one in ground’.” Jory snorted. “Wasn’t fair.”

“Yeah well, we’re here.” she announced. Jory looked at the city of Cristenine in amazement. “Cristenine.”

Five

Cristenine was like something out of the movies. A quaint yet futuristic little province that was home of millions. “Where did you say your uncle lived?” asked Saere.

“Huh? Well…I’ve never been to my uncle’s home.” Jory blushed. “Look, there’s a ranch. Maybe we can get a horse instead of a car?”

“Travel like 19^th century. Might be fun.” remarked Saere. They strode up towards the main house of the ranch and towards the main desk.

“Um, excuse me?” asked Jory. The place was practically deserted. Partially due to the many workers on the ranch outside.

A blonde woman well into her 40’s walked out. “Howdy, y’all and welcome to Richardson’s Ranch. I’m Kristin. How can I help you today?”

“Yeah, we were wondering if--” Jory started.

“Jory? Jorryn Carter, is that you?” asked a deep voice from the back room. He was tall and elderly just as much as the woman. “As in Jorryn Bryan Carter, Nicky’s little boy?”

“Uncle Kevin?” the younger man gulped.

“I haven’t seen you in years.” Kevin murmured. A girl about Jory’s age stared at Kevin intently.

“Are you actually human?” she asked in wonder.

“Is there something wrong?” he laughed.

“I thought humans ceased to exist.” Saere whispered. “At least where I came from, they were dead.”

“Well, here in Cristenine, it’s a bit different. Magic protects Ta’oth, Ta’nil, and humans alike.” Kevin explained. “What are you doing here, Jory?” he asked. “And who’s your little lady?”

Jory blushed while Saere rolled her dark eyes. “Um, this is Saere. We just need to talk to Uncle Aaron. We stopped by here to see if we could like rent some horses. It’d be a nice way to get around town.”

“Ah yes, you’re lucky that we’re in stock.” Kristin smiled. “Vicki, could you get the stallions from the back, please?”

“Sure, mama!” returned a voice.

”Vicki’s here?” asked Jory.

A young girl walked out with stunning green eyes and auburn brown hair. She looked at him with a gaze that broke through memories. “Jorryn?” she asked.

“VICKI!” he exclaimed as he picked her up and spun her around. “Wow, how’ve you been?”

“Pretty good. I’ve been growing up on this here ranch for the past 13 or so years.” Vicki smiled.

“Vicki, I’d like you to meet Saere.” Jory smiled.

“Nice to meet you, Saere.” Vicki smiled.

“Pleasure’s all mine.” Saere replied. “Well, I’ll leave you friends alone.” She smiled politely and turned to leave the people behind.

“Wait!” called out Jory. He ran up to her. “Why won’t you stay?”

“Obviously this is your family. I have none therefore I do not belong.” Saere dismissed as she twisted her watch 90° to the right. A rectangular snowboard appeared under her feet. “Later, Jory.” She flew upwards and into the city.

Jory turned back at the family. “Sorry. She’s like that sometimes. Her mom--”

“I know what happened to her mom and dad.” Kevin said. Kristen nodded. “We were there. Don’t worry, Aaron’s really excited that his nephew is coming to town.”

Jory smiled and pulled himself on the dark stallion. “You guys are the best.” Jory said as he rode off into the city as well.

“He’s also really nervous.” Kristen added to Kevin’s statement. “Let’s hope that the world will return to what it was once before.”

The board finally lowered in front of a large mansion. Saere turned her watch-face 90° to the right as the board disappeared. It was then when she heard a clopping sound pulling up the driveway. She turned and saw Jory grinning back at her. She perked an eyebrow then sighed and turned towards the door again.

“Forget this.” She disappeared and reappeared in the foyer. “Hello? Anyone home?” she asked. Immediately, she sensed beings in the house. Two Ta’oth and…and Elder. One of the Ta’oth auras was a bit stronger than the others. She produced her staff and tapped the floor heavily. The entire house shook as Jory stepped in.

“Shaking entrance as usual.” Jory groaned as he stilled his mind. She only smirked. Three people ran down from the second floor. “Hey Uncle Aaron!” he greeted.

“Jorryn?” asked the man. “What are you doing here? How did you get here?”

“I teleported…duh.” Saere replied.

“That door was Ta’oth proof.” Aaron replied. “And only Jorryn has the key.”

“I dunno. I teleported is all. Anyway, do you know where the One lives?” she asked.

“Why?” asked the elderly woman.

Saere turned to her with an unwavering gaze. “Because I have a line from the Prophecy recently discovered.”

“What are you? How do you know of the prophecy?” she demanded.

“My father had the Ta’oth gene in him.” Saere glared.

“And your mother?” she spat.

“My mother was not human, Ta’oth, Ta’nil, or Vereor.” Saere hissed.

“She was an alien?” glared she.

“Listen, I only came here to tell you the fucking line from the fucking Prophecy! The prophecy that has driven earth to a pathetic state.” Saere snapped. “Singularis et Singulara. Familiar, Brianna?” The other woman glared. “Yes, I’m the mutt. I’m the crossbreed. I’m the child of the woman whom you’ve called someone who didn’t belong anywhere!”

“That was in the past.” Brianna said coolly.

“What’s in the past is you abandoning training me as a Ta’oth. You abandoned everyone from my family. All because my father loved my mother instead of you.” Tears actually came to her eyes. “Colin didn’t like you because he was a proditor; a traitor. My father saw my mother as the most beautiful woman on earth. All races were forgotten and they proved that they loved each other.”

“I have feelings too!” the usually cool woman snapped. “I loved Gene. I only wanted to separate them for their own good.”

“Bull.” Saere glared. “You tried to drown me when I was a baby.” Brianna gasped. “Yeah, unlike other babies. I actually remembered what happened. Remember, Brianna? Remember the crying baby in the freezing cold water? How it became very white? How you left it on the sand? Remember cursing that I was actually alive after that?”

The other three stared at the two. Brianna said nothing.

“Try it now.” Saere said dangerously quietly.

“What?” asked the other woman in shock.

“Try to kill me, Brianna. Try to eliminate the mutt. Look, I’ll help.” She dropped her shield. “Come on, Brianna. You had a chance 18 years ago and another chance now.”

“This is absurd. I can’t--”

“Do it.” Saere demanded. “Destroy me, Brianna.”

“Saere, it was a long time ago.”

“And I’ve yet to hear an apology.”

“I’m sorry, Saere. I guess I got jealous and didn’t use my head.”

“That’s exactly how this whole thing started.” Saere retorted. “I’ll deal with you later, Brianna. Right now, I need to talk to you two.”

Six

“Well, let’s talk in the living room.” Aaron coughed. They moved and threw themselves over various pieces of furniture. “You said you had a line from the Prophecy just recently discovered?” he asked.

“Singularis et Singulara. A male and a female One; one of new and of old Barrier.” Saere replied.

“We know half of it at least. You’re the One, Uncle Aaron. And you are part of the 21^st century; that’s considered old.” Jory chuckled. Britney smiled wryly as Aaron blushed. “All we need to do is find out is the female One of the New Barrier.”

“But there’s gotta be zillions of Ta’oth girls out there!” the woman sitting beside Aaron exclaimed.

“Brit, calm down.” Aaron soothed.

“One way to tell is if she gives off the same energy waves as Aaron.” Saere replied. She turned and saw Brianna glare at her. “What now?”

“You have no colors whatsoever. How could you be Ta’oth?” she asked. No colors surrounded her. Not even a small trace. Jory looked at her. None were around her like before…before when she wasn’t hiding!

“Maybe she doesn’t want to show her colors like a beacon.” Jory replied. The others looked at him in shock. “Think about it. I really don’t know what her mother was but she was probably something powerful because she’s taught Saere to hide her colors.”

“Her mother…” the wife trailed off. “Her mother was a pretty powerful witch/sorceress.”

“My mother was a witch or a sorceress?” asked Saere.

“I knew her. She was the very last of her kind.” Britney whispered. “Gene thought she was an angel.”

“Yeah, well they’re both dead. That’s the past and we need to concentrate on the now.” She reached into her back and drew out a small homing device. “This scanner measures aura frequencies. We might be able to find this chick faster than we think.”

“Where were you trained?” asked Aaron.

“Ange Agent Academy.” Saere replied.

“Show your colors…please?” he asked.

“Why should I?” she asked suspiciously.

“Because--” They all heard oomph when something landed in the foyer. Aaron rushed towards it. “Nick?!” he gasped.

“H-hey, little brother.” Nick smiled as he stood up slowly. “Saere, I think I figured out what it was that you told me.”

“What did you tell him?” asked Britney.

“That’s not important.” Saere snapped.

“Well, we were surrounded by Vereor outside of the city. Somehow our colors connected. We attacked simultaneously.” Jory replied. “And it seems like my colors are always wanting to touch hers.”

“It isn’t Aestos…is it?” asked Britney. Jory blushed and Saere looked at them with surprise.

“What’s Aestos?” she finally asked. Everyone in the room looked at her in shock. “Ok, so I learned to use my power and all sorts of things at the Academy. But they didn’t explain the prophecy other than the one in four.”

“Aestos is…” Aaron began but was cut off by Jory.

“Basically Ta’oth Sex.”

“Jory!” scolded Britney.

“What? That’s what dad refers to it when he explained.” Jory replied in his defense. Nick blushed. “He and mom had it. He said it was sort of how I came along.” he explained more as his father’s face turned even redder.

“It’s late. You kids gotta rest.” Nick sighed.

“Let me show you to your rooms.” Aaron smiled as he went up the stairs. The two followed him towards the second floor and to two guest rooms. “Sleep tight, kids.”

Jory tossed and turned; desperate for some sort of pressure. His colors reached out anywhere and everywhere. Automatically, he felt the velvet touch of someone else’s colors. They caressed his gently. He pulled them close to him as if they could fly away in any minute. He began to press his body into the mattress more heavily as he gasped for his breath.

Saere only looked calm but under the blanket, her legs crossed and uncrossed to put some pressure. She took huge gulps of air. It was like someone covered her with a large velvet blanket. Softly caressing her. She swore she could almost feel something moving inside of her. Long, slow strokes. She bit her lip and arched off the bed after her release. White explosions surrounded her body.

Jory’s teeth cut through the pillow fabric as his mind imagined the woman he wanted. In his mind’s eye, he could see her arch towards him, crying out his name as she reached her release. The soft feel of warm tightness almost drove him mad. “Saere…” he whispered as a thousand sparks flashed around him.

Saere lie in her bed; sweat dotting all over her body. Her face was slightly flushed and her breath was a bit shallow. Spent and feeling a bit weak, she pulled on a robe and made her way downstairs for a cup of water. Her legs were uncharacteristically wobbly. She held onto the banner as she walked into the kitchen. She sat down at the island, deep in thought.

Nick walked in. “Saere?” he asked. Her guard must’ve been down since he saw not only her colors but also…“No, it can’t be.” He sat down opposite of her. “Saere?” he asked.

She turned to him. “Yes?” she asked. He saw and bit his lip. Oh god, he saw…

“Did uh…you and Jory…you know?” he asked nervously.

“No! I can’t believe you’d think I’d actually do that.” Saere replied, shocked.

“I meant Aestos.” Nick replied.

Her eyes widened. “What’s Aestos?”

“It’s the most wonderful thing in the world. It is only special to very, very few Ta’oth.” Nick smiled. “It’s like Ta’oth sex. And it looks to me that you and Jory have done it.”

“But I thought it was supposed to be a conscious thing.” Saere defended.

“Yeah, but you can do it unconsciously too. I remember Mike did it while I was onstage once.” Nick chuckled. “Almost got caught.” Saere blushed a bit. Within the split second that she blinked, she saw a vision. It was a bit fuzzy, she was guessing Jory’s dream. His arms were wrapped around a petite woman and he had a smile on his face.

“I love you,--”

As quick as it came, the vision disappeared. “I just don’t understand.” Saere sighed.

“My Jory is a patient boy. He’s willing to wait out whatever he wants.”

“I can’t let something like this distract me from what I am here for.” she replied. “Save the world now, romance and others later.”

“Saere…love happens whenever it chooses. When they thought I was the One, Mike and I were in love. It didn’t interfere, in fact, it actually helped.”

Jory walked in at that moment. He was slightly dazed as he reached for the orange juice carton. “You know, they invented cups for a reason.” Saere pointed out.

Jory nearly choked and coughed up the juice. “Saere, I didn’t know you were down here.” he coughed.

Nick silently got up and went back to bed.

“Um, so…what’re you doing down here?” he asked as he sat down.

“I…was awakened by something so I decided to check it out.” She chose her words carefully.

“Did you feel it?” he blurted out.

Moments passed. “Yes.” Saere finally admitted.

“Uh…”

“No apology. Your colors just reached towards the nearest person. Aestos works like that.”

“Did you like it?” he asked. She nodded. “Saere, if you’re not ready…god, what am I saying? We’re not even dating and yet we’re up to here…” He ran a hand through his light brown hair. “I’m sorry. I’m just talking crazy.” He got up to leave.

“I wasn’t really loved growing up.” Saere admitted. He sat back down. “My father was there when I was a baby and so was my mom. Everything was great. We had a cute house by the shore of California. Mom loved it. Mom was a writer/doctor. She told me that I could be anything I want to be. That she wasn’t like her mom. She said that what I do doesn’t reflect much on who I am. My dad was a businessman. But he always makes time for mom and me. He told me that when they first met was at a book signing.” She smiled. “And the time they really met was when he checked in for physical therapy.

“Then the war came. Dad died because he was protecting us. Vereor also killed my mom.” Her eyes saddened as Jory wrapped his arm around her. She let her head rest on his shoulder. “School was no different. It was all girls. And they all hated me because I had extra powers. They almost kicked me out because I could hide my colors and they can’t. When I graduated and had the line from the prophecy. I wanted to find out what it was. And after I was finished, I’d be a loner. Wandering for fights or whatever adventure that comes up.”

“I can’t say that I can relate. But I was cut off from the rest of the world. After my mom’s death, dad didn’t want me to go outside, scared that I might get hurt. So I was trained inside the house. I did all my lessons in the house. I never left. I remember they arrested AJ, thinking that he killed my mom. A whole mess of things happened. My dad was part of the Backstreet Boys. My mom was a doctor. Emergency pediatrics I think. Vereor killed her.”

“Jory, I’m scared.” Saere admitted. “Up ‘till now, I knew what to do, how to do it, and what gets in the way. But now…I just feel helpless.”

“Saere, there are some things that an academy can’t teach you. Like they can’t teach you how to love.” Jory whispered. Saere smiled slightly. “I’m sorry about the Brianna thing. My dad wasn’t a big fan of her either.” They sat in silence. “This is stupid. We’ve been traveling with each other for weeks and now we’re acting like total strangers.”

“It’s a little different now, Jory.”

“We’ll win this war, Saere. I know we will.” Jory replied as he encircled his arms around her. She leaned against him. “You know, you’re more easily to get along with when you’re not snapping.”

“Let’s talk the night away like those people I read about in books.” He nodded.

And so they did.

Seven

Britney and Aaron walked down the stairs to find Saere asleep on top of Jory on the couch. “Don’t the look so sweet?” asked Britney.

“Reminds me of us.” Aaron replied as he wrapped his arms around her. He nuzzled her neck.

“Aaron, do you feel it?” she asked.

“Oh yeah, I feel it, baby.” Aaron growled playfully.

Britney giggled. “I meant, look at them and try to feel what I’m feeling.”

“What is it--whoa…” he gasped.

“The exact same energy waves.” Britney whispered. “And those are...”

“Jorryn’s colors.” Nick replied as he stepped behind them. They looked at him; shocked. “What? He gets it from his old man.” Nick smirked.

Aaron rolled his eyes. “Obviously he inherited his brain from Mike and not from you.”

“Cool it, dearest little brother. I don’t want to be responsible of the death of the One.” Nick smiled evilly.

“Better wake up the lovebirds.” Britney sighed as she left the brothers. She gently shook Jory’s shoulder. “Hey kid, wake up.” Jory stirred and only held onto Saere tighter. “Jory, wake up, sweetie.” He only buried his nose into her hair. “Ok…Saere, wake up.” The girl only cooed and snuggled deeper into Jory. “God, they’re both bad.”

“Nah, you wake ‘em up like this.” Nick instructed. “JORY! WAKE UP, YOU’LL BE LATE FOR SCHOOL!”

Jory choked on his soft snore. His eyes shot wide open. He sat up straight; ironically still holding Saere. “Wait a minute. Today’s not a school day…” The three grown ups laughed at the sight. Jory blushed. Saere opened her eyes. “Ha, ha, morning.” Jory softly chuckled.

“Morning.” Saere replied. She smiled dazedly at him. Her eyes widened a second later. “Oh god!” she screamed. She sat up and crawled off his lap.

“Ooh, she thinks something happened.” Nick smiled.

“The line!”

“Or not.”

“We’re running out of time.” Saere jumped up and grabbed the scanner.

“Saere, relax.” Aaron replied.

“Why? We need to find a person.”

“We’ve found Singulara.” Britney announced.

“Well? Who is it?” she asked. The three looked at each other. “Well, out with it? Who?” she asked.

“It’s you, Saere.” Brianna announced.

Eight

“M-me?” asked Saere weakly. “But how?” she asked.

“The same way about Aaron.” Britney waved her hand. “You were just chosen. No science could tell why.”

“But the scanner--”

“The scanner could be wrong.” Brianna replied. “If you would let me have a second chance, Saere, I could teach you a spell that wouldn’t destroy the Vereor but heal them.”

“Heal them?!” demanded everyone.

“Yes, enlighten them in a way. They’ll turn into Ta’oth and Ta’nil.” Brianna stated. “This one we cannot rehearse but it’s a one long shot.”

“One long shot?” she asked weakly. “How did you find out?”

“After your little Aestos encounter, we noticed that your aura’s energy level was as high as Aaron’s.” Britney explained. “When could we do the spell?” she asked.

“As soon as possible.” Brianna said wisely. “Whenever she is ready.”

“Well, this is a hard pill to swallow first thing in the morning.” Saere joked dryly.

“You gonna be ok, baby?” asked Jory as he rubbed her arm. She shook her head no. “Oh Saere…”

“Jory…up until now, I thought I had no purpose in life.” Saere confessed. “And after last night, Aestos and everything, it all changed so fast.”

“Just a couple of months ago, you would kick whoever’s ass was in your way.” Jory chuckled. “And now you’ve softened.”

“That’s what I got hanging around you.” she mumbled against his neck.

“Oh hey guys.” They heard the chatter of people come into the house.

“Is that Jory?” asked a twanged voice. Five to ten people walked in. “Oh wow, he’s grown.”

“Hey, Uncle Frick.” Jory replied. “Aunt Leigh, JA, uncle Kev, Aunt Kristen, Vicki, Uncle Howie.”

“Who’s the chick?” asked AJ. Saere just stood up and left. “Ok, sorry!” he called after her. “So, who’s the chick?”

Jory sighed, knowing he had a LOT of explaining to do.

And so he did.

*~*

Saere washed her face and looked in the mirror. A few months ago, the face staring back wouldn’t know the meaning of happiness or love or whatnot. Now, it was clear that the face staring back was in love and had a large role to fulfill. She returned downstairs for toast, some waffles and some OJ.

“Honey, you gonna eat so little?” asked Britney.

“Never been much of an eater.” Saere shrugged.

AJ walked in. “Ok, Saere, I’m sorry for calling you a chick earlier. Didn’t know you were offended by it.”

“It’s ok.” Saere replied.

“I’m AJ. No matter what Jory says, I’m AJ to you.” he said while wriggling his eyebrows. She smiled. “That’s better.”

“Hey,” Nick poked his head in the kitchen. “We’re gonna play some old fashion poker. You guys wanna play?”

“Sure.” AJ, Saere, and Britney walked out and joined the circle.

A couple of minutes later, it was down to Kevin and Saere. The bets rose up to $100. “Alright, missy. I’ll see your hundred and raise you 50.”

“Alright, show your cards.” Saere replied sadly.

“3 of a kind.” Kevin announced. “Kings.”

“Oh.” Saere replied; dejected. “That’s gonna be a hard bill to pay.” She placed down her cards. “So write a check. Full house.” Saere smiled.

Everyone groaned as the money was pushed towards her. “Damn girl, your poker face outmatched Kevin’s.” remarked AJ.

“Aw, geez. I didn’t mean to. Tell ya what, you can keep the money.” Saere smiled. “I never did like betting anyway.”

Jory nuzzled her neck. “You know, you look really cute when you smile. You should do it ore often.” Saere turned to say something when her lips met Jory’s. Electricity ran through their veins. They pulled apart after about a minute or so. “Sorry,” he blushed, “I just--”

“Shhh…” She placed a finger to his lips. “Don’t apologize. I liked it.” Jory’s face broke out into a smile and kissed her again.

“Whoo! Go JB!”

“Let’s see some tongue, son!”

Jory pulled away, embarrassed that he had forgotten everyone else in the room. “Come on.” He stood up and held out his hands to Saere. She took them and stood up. They walked out of the room and onto the veranda. “I love you, Saere.” He rubbed his thumb across her cheek. “I never met anyone like you.”

“That’s because you haven’t interacted with anyone of the opposite sex in years.” Saere laughed.

“I’m serious. I really do love you. If you die in this spell…god, Saere, I wouldn’t know what to do.” He pressed his lips against her forehead.

“I love you too, Jor.” He pulled back and looked at her.

“My mom used to call me that.”

“Oh, I’m sorry.” Saere apologized.

“It’s ok. It sounds good when you say it.” Jory replied. He bent his head to kiss her again when he heard muffled catcalls. He turned towards the window to see his dad and JA smushed against the window. He groaned. “My mature adult father.”

She giggled. “I think it’s cute how he keeps his eye on you.”

“Congratulations, kids!” shouted the two men as they made faces in the window. Saere and Jory looked at each other and teleported to Jory’s room. “Aw…! Where’d they go?”

Nine

Saere stretched and snuggled against the warm body next to her. Within the last year and a third of Ta’oth official training, Jory and Saere had gotten closer and stronger than before. They had finally decided that they wouldn’t do anything they would regret and hold off babies until after marriage. So they spent their time doing other things.

The day of the spell was finally here. they had agreed to do the spell outside of the city since it was the central point of the world. “Sweetie, wake up.” Saere cooed. Jory groaned and buried his nose in her hair as he slept on. “Jory, sweetie, it’s time to wake up.”

“Man, when are you people gonna learn? To wake up Jory, you need to scream in his ear like this: JORY, YOU’RE GONNA BE LATE FOR SCHOOL!” screamed Nick from the doorway.

“Go ‘way, dad. No school.” Jory murmured.

“The spell is today. I don’t want you in bed when I need you the most.” Saere whispered. Jory looked at her with tears. “I know, honey. I want it to go well too.”

“Let’s go. the sooner the spell’s over, the sooner I get to give you your surprise.” Jory smiled through his tears.

“What surprise?” she asked as she was dragged to the restroom.

“Not telling! Spell now, surprise later!” he called over his shoulder as he walked with his dad down to breakfast.

She smiled. Yup, that was her boyfriend. Time to save the world, she thought to herself.

The morning went without incident. Saere had become more open to the family and Jory seemed to fall deeper and deeper for her. The time came when everyone piled into cars and drove outside the city.

Aaron stood in front of Saere. He held out his hands; palms up. She nodded and let her hands, palms down, hover over his. Their power could be seen crackling within the inch of space that separated them. Their friends and family sat around them to witness the greatest spell ever.

Ready?

Ready as I’ll ever be, Aaron.

Their eyes closed as a force field hummed around them. At the same moment, their eyes opened wide. Jory and Britney held their breath as the white glow seeped into their eyes. The spell exploded like an atomic bomb covering earth in a white light. Powers of millions of Ta’oth and Ta’nil connected with them to make the spell stronger. Vereor around the earth could feel themselves changing.

Lou Pearlman didn’t accept the change. He screamed as the white light consumed his being and crushed it into oblivion. Jane Carter laughed and looked at the light. She was set free of the barriers. She was now a Ta’oth. Justin Timberlake found himself changing for a more peaceful state of mind.

Once the change was complete, the light receded towards its source. The power was too much for the two to handle.

W-what’s happening?

I don’t know! This never happened before!

Jorryn!

Britney!

The last thought left their minds as Singularis and Singulara blasted away from each other. Both landed on the ground with a sickening thud.

Jory rushed over towards Saere to check if she was still alive. “Saere? Baby? Sweetie, speak to me!” he begged.

Britney ran over towards her husband to do the same. “Aaron? Honey, please wake up.”

Nick could only stare on from his middle. The scene was too familiar. He crumpled to the ground with the pained memory of his wife’s death. “Please…” he whispered. “Please let those two make it.” He heard a whoosh of wings and opened his eyes. “Mike…” he breathed.

“They’ll live, Nicky.” She folded in his arms. “I can’t believe that that’s our little boy. That’s our little miracle.”

“Baby, I missed you so much.” Nick sobbed.

“I know. But I’ll let you in on a secret. I’m always by your side. Whether you see me or not, I’ll be right there.”

“Even when I’m showering?” he asked, smiling through his tears.

“Trust me, the show’s good.” She started to fade. “I love you, Nicky.”

“I’m not going to say goodbye because you’re right here.” he smiled. “I love you so much, Mikayla.”

Saere’s eyes fluttered open as brown eyes met blue. “J-Jory?” she rasped.

“SAERE!” he screamed and hugged her. “Do you feel ok? How do you feel?”

“I’m ok. Just a little weak.” Saere smiled. “Aaron.” Jory scooped her up and walked over towards where Brianna and Britney sat. “Aaron?”

“He’s dead.” Brianna replied. “How?” she begged to no one.

“Jory, put me down next to him.” Saere asked. Jory set her down next to his still uncle. She raised her hand over his heart. “He’s a fighter.” She smiled. Her hand glowed a violet color as Aaron started to breathe again. “He’ll live.”

“Britney…” he rasped.

“I’m right here.”

“Could you,” he smiled, “hit me, baby, one more time?”

Britney laughed through her tears of happiness. “Oh you…” She bent and kissed him. “Only if I’m screaming Aaron oh Aaron later.”

“You got it, babe.”

Ten

“Jory, what was that surprise you told me about?” asked Saere. They were laying at a beach in Florida. Just a few months after the spell. The world restored to how it was.

Jory comically fumbled his way to one knee. She laughed. “Look, I know we’re young. But I know when I’ve found the one. These past two years have been the best; all because I’ve been with you. You make my life whole. What I’m saying is…”

“Oh no, not here too!” groaned a voice. They turned to see Nick with his arm around an invisible person’s waist. “There’s a proposal up the beach. And now we find another one!”

Jory ignored his father. “Please ignore the crazy man I call dad. Anyway, like I was saying.” Would you do me the honor of being my wife? He produced a solitaire diamond ring.

Oh Jory…now why would my answer be anything else but yes?

His face broke out into a grin and he slipped the ring onto her finger. He pulled her up and kissed her.

“That’s one incredible son we’ve got.” Mike commented.

“And they say I’m crazy.” Nick smiled.

Mikayla, a booming voice commanded.

“Uh oh.” Mike groaned.

Don’t uh oh yet, miss, the voice laughed. I am just going to tell you that we will let you live again.

“Really? What made you do it?” she asked.

Obviously your bond with Nick is strong enough to give you life, the voice finished.

Mike gasped as she began to solidify. Saere pulled away from Jory and motioned towards his father. He looked and a woman, old like his father, appeared.

“Mike? Baby? Y-you’re back?” asked Nick. Mike’s colors softly caressed Nick’s.

What do you think, baby?

He groaned and kissed her. Jory who jumped on them interrupted their kiss. “MAMA!” he cried out.

“My baby.” Saere uncertainly walked up to them. “And you must be the lovely young woman he’s been ranting about.”

“My name is Saere. It’s very nice to meet you Mrs. Carter.”

“Oh, just call me mom.” Mike’s eyes glinted. “Your mom is very proud of you, you know.” Saere smiled. “Now jump in here, you’re a Carter now!” she laughed. Saere let go of all of her inhibitions and landed next to Jory. After all, like Mike said, she was a Carter now. “Oh and no matter what anyone says. It’s not so bad. You’re family now.”

A family.

Exactly what she had been searching for her whole life.

And now she’s found one.

Epilogue

The newly wedded Mr. and Mrs. Aaron and Britney Carter stood on the private beach as they watched their nephew marry. Kevin walked Saere down to the alter. Nick and JA were naturally the best men. Vicki and Kristen were bride’s maids. Jory stood in his best Armani tuxedo. He took Saere’s hand as she approached. It took a while until they got to the best part.

“Do you, Jorryn Bryan Carter, take…uh…Miss Saere, do you have more than just your first name?” asked Rev. Tim Richardson.

Saere blushed. “Saere Laura Kroft.”

“Ok. Do you, Jorryn Brian Carter, take Saere Laura Kroft to be your lawfully wedded wife?”

“I do.” Jory replied.

“Do you, Saere Laura Kroft, take Jorryn Bryan Carter to be your lawfully wedded husband?”

“I do.” Saere replied.

“If anyone objects with these two, speak now or forever hold your peace. With the powers vested in my, by the state of Florida, I now pronounce you man and wife. You may kiss the bride.” Jory’s arms encircled her waist and he gave her a kiss that blew the ones before them out of the water.

Nick grabbed Mike into a kiss as well to relive the feels at their own wedding. The married couples in the audience kissed as well.

The End