Elemental Genesis

***

Chapter 28: The First Rounds

If the beauty with the red mottled violet hair had any concerns over what was going on the mortal plane, then she didn't show it. Unlike most light goddesses, she wore a garment of all colors, but it was designed in a way that did not clash together into an artistic catastrophe. Though she was stunning in her own unique way, most did not acknowledge this. No, they were busy looking at the blonde locks and flirtatious lavender eyes of her elder sister Pheta. They had gotten her sister plenty of admirers and worshippers. Though there was a few that appreciated her good looks, few those people may be.

Her view of what was going on was very clear from where she was. Only a few wispy clouds blocked her vision. Such was the advantage of Castle in the Sky. The structure floated spectacularly above the white expanse of ice that was the northern pole of Earth. None of the mortals' technology or magic could locate it because of the shields and wards place on it for its own protection. A classical castle with turrets, towers, and windows galore: it was the gods' closest tangible outlook onto Earth and the affairs of the mortal beings. The building had the right amount of curves and angles, making it the peak of architectural mastery. Even now, on the main tower's viewing deck, bright light from the sun permeated through brightly colored stained crystal windows. It would be very different in a few months. When winter came, the moon would be the one casting the light. And cold Artemis' moonbeams were as different from Helios' sunrays as fire was to water. It was another example of the balance of light and dark in the universe. She had never understood the meanings or the stories behind what the windows depicted, but she could logically assume they were from the Lost Ages. Both her parents refused to speak of the golden ages of the Universe before Earth's creation. It still brought back painful memories for them. She stood looking over into the distance, her pale hands leaning on the ornately carved stone balcony.

Though most of the minor light gods preferred not to come to this place, such major deities as Helios, Sekhmet, and herself often stopped by. Why the other light gods had such an aversion to this place was probably due to the fact that the Harbingers had built the place long ago as a gateway to their respective dark realms. Those gateways have long been locked and shut. Not even the dark gods could go into them. She had never known the Harbingers, but her mother had. Hemera, goddess of day, was around in the time of the Harbingers and remembered them well. In particular, she praised the artistry and creativity of one Harbinger: Megami, the Midnight Harbinger. Supposedly, Megami had been the one to design most of the castle. But alas, she and the rest of the Harbingers were gone just as the golden age had.

"Looking for something, Iris?" The new voice was unnervingly loud in the silent sanctuary. Iris knew it very well. What deity did not know it? Only one particular god had that exact tone which possessed both humor and wry amusement. And that god happened to be a dark deity. Turning around, she was that she was right. He was standing right there, leaning against a pillar, with a smile that held both enjoyment and sardonic wit. Iris noted that he wasn't as casual as he usually was. His black robes were decorated in the characteristic silver that showed he was dark and he wore a long sleeved dress shirt instead of a t-shirt. Also, it was a shock to seem him out of...what did the mortals call them...jeans.

Yes, Thanatos did not look like his normal self today.

"Not really," she replied back, albeit a bit late. "I'm just enjoying the view."

"Right. Don't kid yourself. I know you aren't enjoying what you see at all." She cursed him silently. How did he know all that he did? True, he was the god of death himself, but even so. Only Thanatos could get on her nerves like this.

Angrily, she countered, "Well, I don't use this place to spy on people like you do. I wonder what those poor mortal girls you find happen to find attractive would think if they knew."

His blue eyes now glinted in amusement. "I don't do that so often now. But I should think they'd be complimented. Anyway, you get a much better view when you are among them literally." She scowled, knowing full well what he meant. He was one of the few gods who could freely walk around in the mortal plane with powers intact, though masquerading as a normal human. "Also," he added dryly. "Do I hear a bit of jealousy in that accusation, my dear light goddess?"

Iris threw her hands up in the air in disgust. There was no reasoning with him. "I give up on you. You're...you're just...infuriating!" She grimaced even more as his appreciative laughter rang through the hushed haven. Still furious, she asked, "What's with you anyway? Why are you so happy, Thanatos?!"

"The pieces are moving into play," Thanatos responded, still smiling as if nothing were wrong in the world. Which was definitely not the case. He strode up to the balcony and looked over the edge in an unconcerned, easy sophistication that was all his own. Thanatos always confused her. Sometimes he was as straightforward and funny as the god of laughter himself and at other times more mysterious and haunting than even his mother, the great goddess of the night, could be. Iris knew that Thanatos, despite his laid-back behavior, was much more cunning and intelligent than he let on. "I'm sure you know of your sister's plans?"

"Of course. She's wanted to take out your sister's descendants for years. That's nothing new."

"Really?" he inquired, intrigue slipping into his tenor. "Nothing more?"

This caught her attention. "What more could there be? It's not like she's going to do anything other than that. Her only targets are Harry Potter and Tom Riddle." Why would there be more? Pheta's grudge with the gods of darkness was a well-known fact. It had even driven away the Chaos and the Universe. Iris stayed out of her sister's actions most of the time. They had never really gotten along well.

"So, you don't know...pity."

Now her curiosity was piqued.

<><><>

"WELCOME, EVERYONE, TO THE START OF THE GREY TOWER TOURNAMENTS!"

The crowd around the raised platform erupted with cheers and whoops of happiness. Night, with Hedwig perched on his shoulder and Shadow close at his feet, looked around nervously. His mother was not with him, since she had responsibilities up on the stage. All the leaders of each clan had to be present on the dais during this time. And even during the tournament itself, she could only see him briefly. Zylle couldn't show favoritism and she had to act as a judge. The same went for Professor Coulter, Mirai Alucard, and Jonathan Smythe. Gran and Hans were standing next to him in the mob though, their presence comforting to his fraying sense of confidence in his skills. Catching his mother's serious gray gaze, he tried to reassure her that he was fine through a smile. But inside, he was practically quivering with nerves.

The opening ceremonies of the tournaments would occur here in the center of Grey Tower, Aiken-Quincy Park. All the stores and shops were closed, as were the roads. The reinforced wards were also up. No one - absolutely no one - was getting into the town during the tournament. This isolation from the rest of the world for this period of time was a time-honored tradition. Everyone in town was gathered here. It was supposed to strengthen the unity between the clans before they separated back to their own territories to choose who would be their next leaders. All around him were members not only of his own clan, but also of the Seijaku-Shinrin, the Kiri-Kaminari, the Eikou-Taiyou, and the Rekka-Ki. Of course, before the Phantom Wars, there had been many more clans for this observance. They were all exulting for the same reasons: the beginning of the new generation as they saw it and in the lasting harmony between the clans. It may be true that there were some petty rivalries between them, but a common belief in their magic and philosophies kept them together. When all the tournaments ended, there would be another ceremony here to formally proclaim them as the future leaders before a giant celebration.

Aldric Barron's strong and deep voice on the microphone broke over them like a wave. The well-built archaeologist was chosen for this job especially. His charisma and enthusiasm affected the crowd greatly. You could see in his dancing brown eyes that he was excited and that same exhilaration was contagious. Night felt his nervousness slip away slightly at the sound of it. It was only slightly, though. Then again, the Red Unicorn of the Eikou-Taiyou had his own television show. That certainly said something.

"As you all know, the tournaments are our way of weeding out the weak and unworthy, the strong and the loyal, the intelligent and the cunning. It is through these competitions that we choose who will be our leaders in the future, who we will look to for guidance in times of peace and in crisis." Murmurs erupted around him at the mention of a crisis. Looking past Barron, he saw Jonathan Smythe muttering quietly to his mother and Professor Coulter next to him making a snide remark. Glancing at Gran and Hans, he saw that their faces had become inscrutable. Night knew what Barron meant. He was talking about the Phantom Elementals.

Barron continued over the mutters of the horde. "Though our clans do have their own traditions and ways of doing their own tournaments, there are several rules that apply to all of them. Competitors should pay especial attention to this as they could be disqualified if these mandates are broken." He felt Shadow rub his leg comfortingly and Hedwig nipped his ear affectionately. From the past few days, he noticed the animals seemed to sense his feelings. Night just assumed this was the normal result of having pets that were close to you.

"First off, there will be no endangering the crowd. If there are injuries, limit them to your opponent." Gran snickered. He cracked a small smile, knowing what she was thinking. The rule had been put in place because of Suiko-Tsuki Panthers (before the Phantom Wars) whose members learned very destructive techniques.

"Second, there will be no use of outside objects. You are to use only your body, your mind, and your magic. No outside weapons are allowed." This wasn't really a problem.

"Third, any use of amplifiers or any other type of magic is prohibited! The competitor will be immediately disqualified." Night didn't have any magical amplifiers, so it really wasn't a big deal for him. The leaders approved the stardust in his hair, as the substance usually strengthened defensive power, so he was all right. And he had been warned against wizarding magic.

"Fourth, if knocked out of the ring or struck down, there is a twelve second count. If the elemental does not get up or back into the ring in these twelve seconds, then they lose."

"And lastly," Barron boomed out. "There will be no killing or taking the life of another." A slight shiver ran through him. People had to have died in order for that rule to be in place. Normally, the clans instilled in their members that in a friendly and formal duel that you should not kill your opponent. In times of emergency, the rule could be bent, but in this case it wouldn't.

"Now, I wish all competitors the best of luck. LET THE TOURNAMENTS BEGIN!"

<><><>

"Don't be nervous and be careful..."

"I know..."

"Make sure you do your best..."

"Right, I will...

"And remember that it doesn't matter to me if you win or you lose..."

"Mum!"

Zylle just smiled coyly at him, she said, "I can't help it." With a motherly kiss on his cheek and a mussing of his stardust-highlighted hair, she quickly said, "I love you," before leaving him. He knew that she'd be cheering him on, though as a judge she was supposed to be impartial, and it felt good that she was there. Gran also gave him a good luck embrace and Hans just laughed heartily while giving him an encouraging clap on the back, which nearly sent him reeling. Hans was pretty strong for an old man. Feeling like he was walking on air, he made his way to where the competitors were to watch the matches, taking a seat in between Trina and Bran. Beyond Bran were several other entrants in the Arashi-Tenku tournament, including Simeon Bradley, loftily talking to a girl who really wasn't paying attention. Sitting right next to Trina was Mordecai Freely, who seemed to be looking at the ring with a mix of apprehension and determination.

Bran looked as unshaken as ever, but when Night looked closely at his cold blue eyes, he could see the underlying nervousness that he was certain he was showing as well. Trina was also making a valiant attempt to hide her emotions, though she wasn't nearly as successful. The main thing that all those going to fight all had in common was the style of clothing that they wore, though in different colors. All of them wore a shirt with a high collar and long sleeves, well-fitting jeans, sneakers, and fighting gloves. The shirts had the Arashi-Tenku Dragon on the left arm (where the actual tattoo was). Night had removed his glasses and replaced them with his gray contacts for obvious reasons. His shirt was emerald green and gray with black jeans. Trina wore yellow and blue while Bran went for red and black.

Where the Arashi-Tenku tournament was taking place was in a massive underground room deep beneath Dragon territory. It was an impressive room. Stands lined the walls for the spectators were to sit, higher than the ring for a better view. At the moment, Night doubted another person could fit on them. The walls were of sheer rock, rough and ancient in the light of cold blue flames. The ring was in the center of the room, circular and slightly higher than the ground. Different colored stones lined the walls separating the ring from the stands, designed to shield the audience from attacks, debris, or elementals sent flying. Separate places were set up for the participants and the current leaders to sit. Night sat with those going to fight. Across the room in the leader's box, Zylle sat with the others.

After a few moments, Zylle stood up. The viewers gradually quieted themselves as Zylle attracted their attention. Once there was a silence, Zylle spoke clearly into the megaphone. Professor Coulter next to her was looking particularly condescending while Mirai seemed to be the one offsetting the seriousness of it all with her red-haired good looks. Jonathan Smythe, Trina's father, was watching Trina intently and he could see that she was squirming slightly.

"Welcome to the Arashi-Tenku Tournament," Zylle said seriously. Like the fighters, the leaders wore similar outfits. Zylle's was a plain gray and black; she wasn't trying to gain attention to herself. "The rules have already been explained, so I feel no need to repeat them. If a fighter does commit an offense that they did not know was illegal because they weren't listening, then they are disqualified nevertheless. It is their own fault they weren't paying attention." Night, Bran, and Trina all looked at Simeon Bradley, who wasn't listening to a word Zylle was saying. "The tournament will take place over the course of three days." Gran said this was to allow rest for the winning fighters.

"The first round matches will begin immediately. The matches will be held in this order:

Match 1. Vega Rowan vs. Triana Smythe."

Trina blinked in surprise and looked slightly green. Obviously, she wasn't expecting to be in the first match.

"Match 2: Mordecai Freely vs. Raymond Alderson"

Next to Trina, the water elemental straightened himself in his seat. To Night's curiosity, he started to peruse the crowd. He apparently found something, or someone, that he didn't like and frowned in uneasiness.

"Match 3: Kira Franklin vs. Bran Ravencroft."

"At least she said my nickname. They're certainly sending us up quick," muttered Bran. Night was inclined to agree and was going to do so, but Zylle was speaking again.

"Match 4: Simeon Bradley vs. William Hale."

"I'll win for sure," Simeon kept telling that girl, who looked as if she wanted to run out of there right then and there.

"Match 5: Ayame Hinomori vs. Nuitari Hawking."

Whispers broke out at the mention of his name. It was unsurprising really. He was competing with only a month's training and he was the son of the current Black Dragon. Night looked over past Mordecai, towards Ayame. The black-haired Japanese girl didn't seem too troubled by the match up.

"Match 6: Pierce Rowan vs. Helena Taylor."

Pierce didn't look too anxious. Knowing the older teen, he was in there just for fun. Helena, a shorthaired blond, also appeared to be doing this for kicks. It was unsurprising. They were boyfriend and girlfriend.

"Match 7: Lee Seldon vs. Calvin Springfield."

Calvin Springfield was thankfully clothed, but he didn't look that happy. Not that Night could blame him at all. Gran had said that Calvin's mother forced him to compete. Lee Seldon was a normal guy that Night had made the acquaintance of, but didn't know that well.

"And the last match of the day: Neve Vlotskya vs. Mariya Bradley."

Night looked around. He didn't know that Simeon had a sister. Sure enough, he noticed a girl that resembled Simeon a lot who was an earth elemental. She seemed pretty quiet and didn't stand out that much.

"Will Vega Rowan and Triana Smythe please step into the ring for the first match?"

<><><>

Trina got up, shaking slightly on her feet. Night looked at her in worry. So did Bran. Though the two often got into arguments over little things (which were usually funny), they did care about the other's well being a lot. Being longtime friends as they were tended to do that.

Night asked, concerned for her, "Trina, are you going to be alright?"

"Personally, I feel a bit sick."

"Well, if you throw up on Vega, that might distract her enough for you to take the win," Bran replied sarcastically. He wasn't being mean towards her, he was just trying to make light of the situation.

"I'm sure that'll be memorable. Trina Smythe wins by vomiting over opponent. Where's the honor in that?" Night shook his head. They just wouldn't quit. "Wish me luck, guys," she said. To the surprise of both himself and Bran, they were the recipients of large hugs before their friend made her way to the ring.

Trina had her rose ready in her hand when she stepped into the fighting ground. With a quick flick of her wrist and a flurry of red rose petals, the rose whip appeared. It was held prepared by Trina in a defense stance. Even from where he was sitting, Night could see the wicked thorns on the weapon. The anxiety seemed to disappear slightly from her face.

Vega Rowan was very different from her cousin, Pierce. Trina was very petite, even shorter than Night was, but Vega literally towered over her. The girl, a few years their senior and wearing a fierce expression, was nearly six feet tall. Trina looked unbelievably short compared to her. It would be an interesting fight, since Vega was a fire elemental. Trina would be at a disadvantage, but Night was certain she would pull through. She had beaten down Bran plenty of times to prove that fact.

Mirai's voice came out on the microphone. "Let the match begin!"

Trina was right to start out on the defense. Vega had already launched an attack. Using her elemental weapons - which were similar to brass knuckles, except with claws made out of fire on her hands- she slashed at his friend. Trina, though, had the sense enough to duck. The assault missed and gave Trina the advantage to off-balance Vega. With a swift kick to the legs, she nearly did so, but Vega managed to regain her balance in mid-fall and clawed Trina's face and shirt.

It was first blood. He winced in sympathy. Three gashes ran down her cheek, staining the yellow fabric that was also cut. The crowd, cheering loudly, was thrown into frenzy.

Apparently, that did it. Night himself knew that getting Trina mad was never a good thing. And with her brown eyes flashing angrily, she wasn't going to show any mercy.

Once more, Vega charged. Night was at first impressed by her weapons, but now saw the faults in them. In order to do anything with them, you had to always charge. And they seemed very weak defensively. Thinking ahead, Trina used her rose whip to counter it by slashing her whip at Vega's abdomen, knocking the wind out of her. Then Trina charged herself, giving Vega a sharp punch to the stomach, using her small frame has an advantage. Lastly, she bicycle-kicked her opponent into the shield, getting surprised 'oh!'s from the crowd.

Vega didn't get up. She was clearly knocked out from impact.

Mirai's cheery voice announced, "Match one goes to Triana Smythe!" Standing up, he and Bran applauded Trina's victory. Trina didn't return to the competitor's stands yet. She was herded off to the side, where there were several medics. Dr. Annie wasn't one of them. No, he was overseeing the matches in the Kiri-Kaminari tournament.

"Will Mordecai Freely and Raymond Alderson step into the ring for match two?"

<><><>

The boy with the blue eyes and spiky light brown hair walked confidently into the ring. Whispers soon racked the crowd. Night was certain he knew what they were about. Mordecai Freely was easily an unknown in this match. Though Night was fairly sure that the family name struck a bell. Some were murmuring the name "Freely" with malice or fear.

Raymond Alderson was otherwise a normal elemental. If Night was correct in his aura reading, then this guy was a wind elemental like himself. But he seemed a bit too sure of himself. Night knew why. Wind elementals had control over electricity, which water was a great conductor of. Raymond would go for electric attacks to do the work for him.

"Let the match begin!"

It was all too easy to see who would win. Before Raymond could attack, Mordecai drenched him from head to toe in water. But nevertheless, the water elemental brought out a water elemental sword. Compared to the one that Ian Harlan, Black Panther, used it was much stronger and it more suited to its wielder.

Obviously angry, Raymond fired electricity at Mordecai. Mordecai quickly dispelled his sword and put up a water shield, with a lot of room between the element and his body. The electricity jumped on the water shield's surface. But none of it made it to Mordecai inside.

Raymond, however, wasn't so lucky. Being soaked in water, the electricity he used also shocked him. Night winced. That jolt looked - and most likely was - very painful. Raymond collapsed from the shock, unconscious. Mordecai dispelled his shield with an unreadable expression on his face.

"Match two goes to Mordecai Freely!" There was some appreciative applause and cheering here, but nothing too big. Night was reminded of what Bran and Trina told him of the water elemental. Not many people knew him that well. Medics arrived on the scene to help Raymond off the ring and to receive treatment. But now Night knew that if he was going to face Mordecai Freely, electricity would not be the way to go. "Will Bran Ravencroft and Kira Franklin step into the ring for the third match?"

<><><>

Bran blinked in bemusement. I didn't think I would be up so fast."

"Well," Night responded, "that last fight really didn't take that long."

"Point. Wish me luck."

"Good luck."

Bran walked up to the ring easily, no signs of anxiety in his stride. There had to be something there though. Night's head turned to immediately glare at some of those in the crowd who were booing. He suppressed the urge to shock them much like Raymond Alderson tried to do to Mordecai Freely. But then he'd be disqualified.

Though they never did say for a spectator to do anything...

...No. It wouldn't be right.

Damn morals.

Kira was an earth elemental, like Trina. However, she was using a staff instead of the rose whip. She was relatively nice and a friend of Trina's yet Night couldn't seem to find anything other than that particularly outstanding about her. Bran formed a fire elemental sword. Night shook his head in exasperation, though still smiling wryly. The only thing Night and Bran disagreed about in combat were swords. Night went for lighter blades that were easy to handle yet required a lot of skill to master. Bran went for heavy broadswords. Then again, Bran was stronger than Night was.

"Let the match begin!"

Like Trina had in her first fight, Bran went for the defensive position. Unfortunately, so did Kira. They circled each other a few times, waiting for the other to attack. Night was beginning to get a bit restless. As was the crowd. It was clear that Kira was definitely not going to make the first move. He thought she probably would feel better about attacking if someone had threatened her first. But it was a bad strategy in this situation. Fire was a nasty element when angered or frustrated. Bran had a lot of patience, but even this was visibly getting on his nerves. After about ten minutes of this, Bran had enough.

Bran charged ahead. This was apparently what Kira was waiting for since she erected a barrier of earth magic in between the two. But Bran then feinted right, causing her to move the wall, before switching to the left and attacking her undefended side. He managed one hit, but she brought up her earth staff just in time to parry the second blow. Night had to give her credit. She was holding the staff up against Bran's broadsword steadily.

However, she was no match for Bran's craftiness. Removing one hand from his sword, he shot a fireball at her, forcing her to relinquish her grip on her weapon. With a swift slice, he cut the earth staff in half at the same time knocking her out of the ring. It was a powerful hit and she took a while to recover. Too long.

"Match three goes to Bran Ravencroft!" Like Mordecai before him, it was mostly appreciative applause. Though Night could definitely make out some booing. It was probably from Bran's classmates and peers. The redhead wasn't paying attention. All he was focused on was waving and grinning at a small group of redheads in the crowd, seeming not to notice any of the public dissent. "Will Simeon Bradley and William Hale step into the ring for the fourth match?"

<><><>

A succession of curses that would make a sailor blush and a mother would be certain to give a tongue lashing for was all that was coming from Bran's mouth. Not that Night could blame him. With Simeon Bradley winning

"Match four goes to Simeon Bradley!" "Will Ayame Hinomori and Nuitari Hawking step into the ring for the fifth match?"

Bran gave him a meaningful look. "Good luck." Then, he cracked a grin. "You better win."

Trina came back to the competitor's stands, her cheek completely healed and smooth. Grey Tower's healers were amazing. But Trina had heard what Bran had said. She glared at the fire elemental and said comfortingly, "You don't need any luck or need to worry. I just know you're going to win!"

He nodded numbly and strode towards the ring, feeling as if he were walking on automatic. As soon as he stepped into the circular dais, his eyes immediately sought out warm gray. Zylle gave him a reassuring smile, which he returned. It wouldn't be so bad. Ice blue ones that belonged to the person next to her were confident and proud. Professor Coulter was absolutely certain he would win. It was easy to see it in her face. Mirai beside her gave him a good luck grin.

Ayame stood there waiting in the ring for him. His gray-covered green gaze was met evenly by expressionless brown. With a toss of her black hair, she summoned light fire blade and went into an offensive stance. He had decided he'd go with his water technique with this one. With a brief shimmer in the air, a blue water staff topped with an ice crystal orb appeared in his hands. That done, he also moved into an offensive stance.

"Let the match begin!"

Both of them had the same idea in mind. Fire blade met water staff in a clash that caused a few sparks. She tried to force the sword down on him much like Bran had tried in the last match, but even though Night wasn't the strongest person in the world, he held his own. After all, all his teachers had caught him in such a situation before. But in this particular match, he needed to remember what Professor Coulter had taught him.

He used his skills as a wind elemental to quickly back out of the bind, causing Ayame to fall forward. As he moved, he caught a glimpse of her surprised face. But she did a side swipe to slash is leg. He winced at the pain, but the cut wasn't that deep. It drew a bit of blood, but it wasn't as serious as Trina's previous injury.

Acting fast, he quickly brought his staff down on her blade. It iced up completely. He grinned in triumph. It worked. As Ayame straightened, she too began to smile. She attempted to make the blade flare up. But nothing happened. Professor Coulter was very through when she taught him how to make never-melt ice. Though he had heard horror stories of it in her classes to boot. Throwing the weapon aside, she prepared to make another one.

But she was too slow. Taking the opportunity, Night moved behind her to hit her in the side out of the ring. He made special care to freeze her side to delay her speed, much like Professor Coulter had done in his previous lessons. She was so shocked by what had happened, that she didn't make it back into the ring in time for the twelve second count.

"Match five goes to Nuitari Hawking!" There was a small silence before the stands erupted into applause and cheering. Night could feel his face flushing. He didn't think he did anything particularly spectacular or anything. Looking towards the judges' seats, he saw his mother's eyes alight with pleasure as she applauded. Mirai was less restrained, giving him thumbs up and whistling shrilly. Professor Coulter gave him acknowledging nod before angrily turning to Mirai. Apparently, she hated the whistling. Though the crowds' ovation, he was sure he heard the hoot of an owl, the purr of a satisfied cat, and the loud cheering of two elderly people.

Scratch that, he did. "ALRIGHT, NUITARI! THAT'S MY BOY! HE WON!" Face aflame, he returned to his seat. Bran gave him a high five while Trina subjected him to a congratulatory hug much like the won she gave to Bran. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Mordecai Freely half-smiling while beyond him Simeon Bradley scowled. When he chanced a look at Zylle, he saw her smiling wider than he had ever seen her smile before.

"Will Pierce Rowan and Helena Taylor step into the ring for the sixth match?"

<><><>

"Are you focusing on the match, Jonathan, or are you thinking about some painting?" asked Lavinia sarcastically. Lavinia herself, Zylle noted, was only watching in muted interest and only really paying attention when four students had come up to the ring. In particular scrutiny, Nuitari Hawking. Her son had done quite well in his match. But this was the first fight. Who knew what would happen in the next?

Jonathan barely batted an eyelash. "Contrary to your belief, Lavinia, I do concentrate on other things than art." Though it was clear where Jonathan's attention had been the entire time. He had watched Trina like a hawk throughout all the matches and had been especially concerned when she was slashed in the face. The medics had healed her up nicely and there wouldn't be any scarring, but Zylle was certain she heard Jonathan mutter threats because his daughter was hurt. It had taken her a bit of time to calm him down and the girl was now sitting with Bran and Night, but the father was still worried about her.

Which Zylle could now relate to. Throughout the match between Nuitari and Ayame Hinomori, Zylle had held her breath and crossed her fingers. She had only felt true relief once the battle was over. Though she was ecstatic that her son had won his duel, she was even happier that he wasn't hurt or injured in any way. She wondered briefly if this was the way her mother felt when she herself fought in her own tournament. Zylle also wondered if her father would have worried. She brushed that thought aside quickly though. She would never know a certain answer to that question, so there was no point in dwelling on it.

"I'm sure," Lavinia sneered.

"Give him a break, Vinny," sighed Mirai. As usual, she was done up in perfect style and taste. Working in the fashion industry obviously had its benefits. Zylle was pretty sure that the accessories that Mirai had brought with her and the change of clothes that was shrunk in the designer bag would not be coming out until the fashion show in October according to Mirai. "He's just worried about Triana."

"He should stop worrying about her and concentrate on the other matches. Look, she's fine."

"I suppose you mean by other matches, you mean Nuitari's?" Mirai asked with a smile. "You've done a good job with him," complimented the vampire to Zylle. "It's been only a month and he's beaten out a person who has been training here for years! It's an amazing thing."

"Well," Zylle replied, blushing yet full of pride. "He's done a lot of work to get this far. Lessons with Hans, Mum, myself, and Lavinia here had to have been exhausting."

"He trained with all of you?! It's no wonder that he's as good as he is."

"It is true that he is good," Jonathan interrupted. "But can he make it to the top? We have a lot of worthy competitors for the title of 'Black Dragon'. Bran Ravencroft might be able to do it. The same goes for Mordecai Freely. Simeon Bradley also stands a chance. Many factors could influence what happens and who is chosen."

"I don't care if he makes it or not," Zylle asserted. "He could have lost and I'd have been happy."

"Spoken like a true mother," put in a smirking Mirai. Jonathan only nodded solemnly before returning his attention to the ring.

"I don't think we'll need to worry about who will win 'Black Dragon'," Lavinia announced. "Simeon Bradley will never make it. Ravencroft and Freely have good shots, yes," she continued. But with a gleam in her ice blue eyes and a cocky smirk, she said, "But Nuitari Hawking will most definitely be the next Black Dragon."

<><><>

The three of them sat on the competitor's stands, exhausted. Though it was true that they had time to rest, they still needed a bit of time to recover from their fights. So they watched the last remaining fights left to be fought, barely speaking to each other, but somehow understanding what went the minds of the others perfectly.

Pierce Rowan lost his match to Helena, but it wasn't so bad. At the end of it, he actually picked her up and swung her around. It was an amusing sight to see, especially since the victor was almost literally squealing with delight from it. Though he didn't win, he was pleased for his girlfriend. Night could hear several wistful gasps from the crowd and a few "aww"s.

"That's my girlfriend!" Pierce had proclaimed loudly, while cheering happily.

"Mr. Rowan, if you don't put your girlfriend down and let the other matches take place, I will turn you into a human icicle!" came the voice of an aggravated Professor Coulter. She had somehow managed to wrench away the microphone from Mirai.

Lee Seldon won the match against Calvin Springfield. It was an obvious outcome. Calvin really didn't have his heart into it at all. But what could someone expect from a person who was forced into it when he never wanted to compete? Looking in the audience, Night could pick out one particularly angry woman glaring daggers at the boy.

"He's in for it," he muttered to Bran, who nodded in agreement.

In the last match, Mariya Bradley made an upset by defeating the impressive Neve Vlotskya. Neve had been a cousin to the Rowan family and was generally a nice person with incredible wind ability. Though Night had to admit her technique lacked style. He had shaken himself then for sounding so much like Professor Coulter. But Mariya would be a challenge. Her stealthy moves often caught the enemy caught the enemy off guard.

Zylle took the microphone again. The chattering crowd quieted down once they saw their leader ready to speak. "This concludes the first round of the Arashi-Tenku tournament. I would like to congratulate our winners-" Cheers and applause permeated with whistles greeted this and Night could feel his face growing red under the happy gaze of his mother, the pleased look he was getting from Professor Coulter, and the fact that Gran and Hans were screaming out in the stands. "I TOLD YOU HE'D WIN! WHOO! GO, NUITARI!" He was given many sympathetic looks from his fellow competitors because of this.

"And of course to those who were defeated for their efforts." Polite applause pervaded with encouraging phrases now filled the hall.

"The next round will start tomorrow at ten o'clock sharp. All competitors must be ready and present here by that time. Thank you." As the people started to exit, Night found himself in a flurry of hugs and happy congratulations from Zylle, Gran, Hans, and Mirai. Professor Coulter, ever restrained and dignified, graced him with a beatific smile before leaving. Now he knew he had done well.

And this before his faithful owl and cat assaulted him.

<><><>

A wild and tempestuous sea broiled and smashed against the stark crags. The normal green and natural serenity that Avalon's own could not be found in this dark. The night was completely clear, yet darker than it had ever been. Far off in the distance, the warm yellow lights of coastal villages signaled to others that there were people; there was a light, in this sudden onset of shadows. Those mortals did not know why this darkness had beset them.

But they had no need to fear it. To those causing the darkness, it was merely a family reunion of sorts. It would be a notable mark in history if one cared to record it. The three ancient deities of darkness met on the mortal plane for the first time in five millennia. Often, they preferred to meet in the shadowed halls of Tartarus or in the forgetful atmosphere that was Lethe. Avalon, though, seemed the appropriate place to have their meeting.

Avalon was a green country, shielded from the rest of the world through rolling mists and dangerous whirlpools. And if one did manage to get past the whirlpools, then they had to climb the dangerous cliffs, where one misplaced hand or foot could send a person falling to their demise. It was why the inhabitants of this isle chose it for their home. Winds from all directions blew over it, giving the home of these people its name.

Above them was a tower made of a roughly hewn dark stone, which was engraved, with mysterious runes and pictograms of lost languages. Pale lights, which resembled moonlight, shone through its windows and into the suffocating doom. No mortal could see this tower, the shields were far too strong and it was Unplottable. It was a veritable stronghold. This was the Fala de Aura Tenebrae, Tower of the Dark Wind. It was here that the greatest amount of Dark magic users was gathered. The dark justices were a secretive group, but well informed of what went on outside their island through a system of trained agents who could return to Avalon in a moment's flash. How they would deal with what was to come would be their own choice.

But if only they knew who was on their island...

"So, my sisters," a strong voice proclaimed. "We meet once more." Erebus of Tartarus stood as imposing as ever. His black armor seemed to suck in all the light from around him and his black cloak blew around his body in an almost unreal manner. His blue eyes, specked with gold and silver, were a mix of emotions. Black hair was made even messier by the forceful winds.

"It is true," said a calm, clear voice. Destiny stood sat on a large rock jutting from the ground. Her black robes, emblazoned with the Seal of Tartarus, did the same as Erebus' cloak. Large gold bangles inscribed with runes hung heavily from her ears and her hazel eyes were alive with interest. "We haven't met in a while. But that is hardly our fault is it, Hecate?"

Another woman appeared, her vibrant jade green eyes only showing wisdom and contempt. "Do not blame me for not appearing to you before. I have had better things to do." She wore long black robes with areas of dark blue in certain places. The tall woman with the long black hair tapped her heeled boots against the stone of the cliffs impatiently. "Why are we here?"

"We have much to discuss, Hecate," proclaimed Erebus cryptically.

"I'm sure we do," she countered. "But is it worth my time?"

Destiny scowled, "I'm sure you'll get something out of this."

Hecate looked at her sister imperiously. "And what would that be?"

"Did you know you acted just like Artemis did right there?"

"If we are going to discuss nothing-

"Silence, Destiny. I want to know something before we continue our discussion elsewhere, Hecate. The dark justices will certainly sense our presences soon."

The witch goddess sighed, "What would you like to know?"

"Do the wizards still believe that Harry Potter is a descendant of Pheta Vaneria?"

"Yes. They assume far too much. Just because Pheta took the form of Godric Gryffindor's wife..."

Erebus angrily interrupted, "It wasn't her fault!"

"I was not blaming your daughter. Though the entire grudge between the two is built on that."

"Melania has nothing against her descendants through Gryffindor or those who have belonged to his house through the school of Hogwarts. It's only towards the man himself. Gryffindor's attraction was completely one-sided and Melania was happily married to someone at the time. Besides, you know well enough what he did. Disguising himself as her hus-"

"Let's discuss this elsewhere," Destiny broke in. "I fear that we may have people interrupting soon." Sure enough, bells were sounding in the tower and faces were beginning to peek out of glass windows. But when they looked outside, they saw nothing but black velvet sea slamming into the crags of misty Avalon.

***