“I don’t know why you’re being so stubborn,” said Terra “I brought along the pony for you to ride.”

I’ve been traveling long distances without help for quite a while. I found you didn’t I?

“True, but you’ve never traveled at my pace. Besides you’ve only just recently been able to walk by yourself.” countered Terra.

Trust me; I’m more than capable of walking for the next few hours.

“Then why are your legs shaking like pudding?” replied Terra.

My legs are not shaking!

“Icarus, we’re connected remember. I can tell that you’re tired.” said Terra tapping her head.

“Besides, I want to cover more ground be nightfall. Now I’ll be taking this.”

Reaching down, Terra grasped the top of Icarus’ pack, pulling it off him. After enjoying Icarus’ valiant attempts at tug of war, Terra tugged it out of his hands, and attached the pack to her belt. The weight of the pack was barely noticeable and wouldn’t weigh her down. Avoiding further argument, Terra wrapped her hands around Icarus’ waist, her fingers easily overlapping, as she deposited him onto the saddle. After adjusting the straps to fit Icarus, Terra led the pony as she started walking at her regular pace.

They had stayed at Windhook for a few weeks until Icarus recovered. Over that time period, Terra had experimented during her free time on the capabilities of the connection that she had with Icarus. She was able to “hear” him from at least a quarter mile away. After that distance his voice would become silent. She could also tell roughly how tired he was, and what his general mood was. Vice versa, Icarus could also tell how tired she was, and how she felt. Even though Icarus couldn’t hear Terra’s thoughts, he did have the ability to determine her general location out to half a mile. Terra also figured out that the connection only existed as long as she had possession of the necklace. It wouldn’t work for anybody except her, so she kept it safely worn around her neck.

By the time evening came around, Terra and Icarus had covered quite a good distance. Lowering his hood as yet another set of travelers passed by, Icarus pulled out a small orange ball from his pouch. Tossing it into his mouth, Icarus savored the sweet flavor as he enjoyed the ‘candy’ that Atticus gave him.

“How many more miles till we arrive at the closest inn?” asked Terra uncorking her water skin.

According to the last sign and how far we’ve traveled, I’d say we’re miles away.

“You can read?” asked Terra wiping water from her mouth.

Not in the way you’re thinking. It is more like looking at a picture and understanding what it says.

“Neat, hopefully they serve some food here. At least they’ve got to have a bar of some kind.” replied Terra.

We have enough food to last us a while, besides I don’t understand your fascination with ale.

“If I had an option, I’d rather have fresh food over the traveling rations we have now. Besides Icarus a little ale is good for relieving stress. I wish you could have tried it sooner, but Atticus had that no alcohol policy.” said Terra.

Trust me; I’ve had plenty of experience with alcohol. Phillip was always an angry drunk. Thought Icarus while rubbing his ribs.

“If you would have let me, then I would have at least destroyed part of his store.”

Terra, you know I dislike needless violence. Also the inn is just up ahead.

Covering the remaining distance, Terra was happy to finally arrive at the inn. After some negotiation to get the frightened stable boy out from the stables, Terra paid the still terrified young man for taking care of their pony for the night. Walking up to the main building, Terra was surprised that after ducking through the doorway, that the place had a high enough ceiling. Terra could comfortably stand without worry of hitting anything. Making their way to the front desk, Terra and Icarus were met with an overly joyous hostess.

“Hello, my name is Carol. How may I help you tonight?” asked Carol.

“Can we get one room for the night and four of the dinners also?” asked Terra.

“Sure, you can follow me to put your stuff in your room, and then you can just grab a table anywhere. I’ll get your food to you as soon as possible.” said Carol.

“Okay, Icarus would you mind grabbing us a table while I take our stuff to our room?” asked Terra.

How long are you going to be gone?

“I’ll come down as soon as possible.” said Terra.

After paying the lady, Terra followed the woman as she was led through the inn. Icarus being left alone decided to try and find a table in a quiet corner. Pulling his hood further down, Icarus walked into the main room of the inn. Through the doorway, Icarus scanned the room to find the best possible spot. Across from the entry way was a large fireplace, burning brightly to warm up the room. To his direct left was a closed door that Icarus guessed went to the kitchen. Along the left wall was the bar. A few men were happily drinking, telling old stories as the bartender joined in occasionally. The bartender was a huge man, a little on the heavy side. Despite being bald, he had a beard to rival the dwarves. Along the right side of the room was placed a line of tables with various groups of travelers. Along the right side wall were windows spanning the entire length, overlooking the main road. The center of the room had several tables set up fully preoccupied. Scanning the room one last time, Icarus saw one table empty in the far right corner.

Sending a message to Terra, Icarus tightening his hood again and made his way across the room. Passing through the first few tables, Icarus’ heart quickened as he lost sight of his table through the crowd. Looking at the top corner of the room as a marker, Icarus continued forward. After passing a few more tables, the space seemed to tighten as more people seemed to be in the area. Walking faster, Icarus made his way towards his table. A few feet away from his table, Icarus was knocked to the ground as a stranger was staggering his way outside. Noticing that his hood came off, Icarus quickly replaced it over his head, hoping that no one noticed. Quickly standing up, Icarus rushed towards the table taking his seat against the wall. Trying to calm himself down, Icarus scanned the room again.

Can you hurry up?

Looking towards the entrance, Icarus noticed a new group of about eight entering the room. Seeing a set of tables beside him, Icarus knew where they were heading.

Terra…

The room around him seemed to get even more crowded as time went by. The new group had arrived, and already started to order drinks. Looking around the room, Icarus noticed several people staring in his direction. Who wouldn’t, a kid was alone in the corner of the room, with his hood up.

Terra…

As his heart rate started to rise, the room seemed to get louder. Grabbing the edge of the table, Icarus started to hear an assortment of voices. Each second, the voices were getting louder.

“Then Bill had jumped in after…”

“They say a dragon was spotted far too…”

“Can we get a room for two? Also could…”

“By this time tomorrow, I’ll have reached…”

“I wonder why he’s alone over…”

Terra…

Looking outside, Icarus saw a couple coming towards the inn. Their voices mostly clear. Turning his attention back towards the room, Icarus noticed one from the new group staring in his direction. Standing to his feet, the stranger started making his way over. Black spots started to fill his vision as the stranger got closer. The voices seemed to get louder as the room seemed to fill with visitors.

TERRA!!

“I’m here.” replied Terra.

Gently pulling his hands from the table, Icarus realized that he had stopped breathing. Taking in a deep breath, the voices seemed to quiet down. The room seemed like a normal room now. Looking back at the table, Icarus noticed little grooves in the wood.

“Yeah he’s okay.” replied Terra to the stranger.

After reassuring the stranger that Icarus was okay, Terra continued to massage his hands.

“You are okay, right?” asked Terra concerned.

Yeah, I’m fine now. I must have been over reacting.

Reading his feelings, Terra was satisfied as she continued to hold his much smaller hands. Letting some time pass, Icarus finally decided to break the silence.

I guess that I don’t do well when I’m surrounded by a large group of strangers by myself.

“I guess that’s understandable, but how are you now?” asked Terra.

I feel fine since you’re around. Also you might want to speak quieter; you look like you’re talking to yourself. Though Icarus with a grin.

Taking a look around the room, Terra thought that they would stare at her anyway. How often would you find a ten and a half foot girl in a bar? Looking across the room, Terra motioned for the lady, who had just come in carrying their food. Turning back to Icarus, Terra signed as she redistributed her weight on the bench.

“Well, at least we’ll feel better after we eat and drink.” said Terra.

I’m not drinking though.

“Come on, just have one. What is the worst that could happen?” said Terra with a sheepish grin.

After finishing their meals, Terra was able to convince Icarus to have a drink. It was the sweetest kind the bar had, but Terra was glad that Icarus enjoyed it. It was comical to see both his hands holding onto the large tankard. As the night went on, Terra had started a conversation with some fellow adventurers. It was fun trading stories about times of both bravery and stupidity. Icarus’ thoughts over time seemed to become sluggish, but he was happy. He was currently enjoying a one sided conversation from an overly adamant traveler.

Terra was enjoying a story of how this man had single handedly killed an orc with nothing but a broken sword. Terra didn’t doubt it as the man stood a little over seven feet tall. He was easily seen as the fighting type. Even though the guy was fairly good looking, he wasn’t Terra’s type. He mustn’t have been too bright because he couldn’t tell that Terra wasn’t interested. It could have been the alcohol talking, but Terra enjoyed the attention to a minor degree.

There was only one person in the room currently that Terra liked. Love would probably be a better word, but it was best to take things slowly. Terra deeply enjoyed Icarus’ reactions when she would flirt. His attitude changing to extremely nervous was beyond cute. Terre let these thought pass through her mind, as the man switched to yet another story. The man seemed to steal a few glances now and then, and it was starting to bother her, but he was drinking. Terra had changed out of her regular leather armor into a light blue tunic. She thought this tunic was cute and it easily emphasized that Terra wasn’t a small chested girl.

Terra was wishing that Icarus was as bold as this guy was when a feeling on her thigh broke her out of her daydream. Looking down, Terra noticed the stranger’s hand touching her thigh. Terra was about to brush the hand away, when she felt a feeling of anger in the back of her mind. Before Terra could connect the dots, an empty tankard crashed into the side of the man’s face. It wasn’t enough to hurt him, but it was enough to get his attention.

At this moment, the entire room fell silent as the man stood to his feet to find out who threw the tankard. A second later, another empty tankard was thrown at the man’s face. This one was easily caught as the man now stared down the perpetrator. Leaning slightly against the table for support, stood Icarus.

She’s mine… Came a sluggish thought to Terra.

Before the guy could move towards Icarus, Terra had already crossed the room and picked Icarus up into her arms. Quickly explaining that Icarus was a little over protective, Terra apologized to the guy as she quickly left the room. Terra had to suppress a giggle as Icarus stuck his tongue out as they passed the guy.

“Are you trying to start a fight?” asked Terra making her way towards their room.

He started it replied Icarus.

“That guy was twice your size Icarus.” laughed Terra.

I could take him.

“You’re definitely drunk aren’t you?” asked Terra once she reached the door.

If you mean happy then yes. Could you put me down, I got to go and use the restroom.

“Can you make your way back?” asked Terra.

This place isn’t very big, I won’t get lost out there.

Putting Icarus back on the ground, Terra debated about following him but ultimately decided not to. Entering into the room, Terra decided to get ready for the night. Taking both mattresses from the beds, Terra aligned them together on the floor. This way she could stay on the mattress instead of sleeping on the floor. Terra would have to use her own blanket, but this didn’t bother her. Checking up on Icarus, Terra felt that the “Sphere”, as she came to call it, was kind of blurry but nothing seemed wrong with him. After prepping the room for a few minutes, Terra was starting to worry with where Icarus was. Finally deciding to look for him, Terra left the room. On her way down the hallway, a sharp pain started to emit from the sphere. Panic set in as Terra rushed through the hallway. Knocking over a few people in her path, Terra burst through the back door.

“Icarus!!” yelled Terra scanning the area.

Terra…woods…stream came a sluggish reply.

Rushing towards the woods behind the inn, Terra had no trouble clearing the fence with a single jump. Another sharp pain came from the sphere as Terra redoubled her speed. After running a quarter of a mile into the woods, Terra saw the light of some torches ahead. Running through the last bush, Terra came to a stop in a clearing. Standing in a small group of around five people stood the tall stranger from the inn. In his hand was Icarus trying to pry his fingers from around his throat.

‘Terra’ Came a thought from Icarus.

Before Terra could come up with a reply, the stranger landed a quick blow to the back of Icarus’ head. Going limp in his hands, the sphere turned a dark grey in Terra’s mind. Terra felt a deep rage flow through her. Tossing Icarus to one of his lackeys, the stranger, along with the rest of the group, drew what weapons they had. With a few quick words the group continued to surround Terra. Unfortunately for them, Terra thought, I’m not the prey. Rushing towards the closest one to her right, Terra caught him off guard as a swift kick sent the guy flying backwards. As another man raised his hatchet to strike, Terre had no problem engulfing his fist in her hand. Grabbing his shirt with the other, she quickly lifted him above her head and slammed him into the ground. With a quick backhand, Terra knocked the third guy out with ease. Turning towards the last one, Terra suppressed a smile as the man dropped his weapon and ran into the woods. With a quick backhand, Terra had no problem knocking the third guy out.

“I’d stop if I were you.” said the stranger looking at Terra.

Terra was about to lunge forward at the man, until she saw his accomplice holding a dagger to the still unconscious Icarus. Stopping in her tracks, Terra started to think of ways to get them out of this situation. Reaching into his back pocket, the stranger retrieved a small dagger, and tossed it towards Terra.

“I’ve always heard stories of a mute elf child that had lived in a village around here, but I didn’t believe it. But I always thought of what price a specimen like this would sell for on the market.” said the stranger.

“He belongs to me.” growled Terra.

“I’ve been in this business for a while now, but you learn how to get around things. Now if you don’t mind, could you please just cut your thigh with that dagger.” asked the stranger.

“Now why would I do that?’ asked Terra.

“Because one of you will get stabbed, but I don’t think this kid would survive it.” replied the stranger.

“And what’s going to stop me from destroying both of you?” asked Terra.

“I’d say that this elf means quite a bit to you, and this is the only way of us having a chance to escape. Now stab yourself, before I decide to stab him.”

Seeing no other options, Terra picked up the dagger. If she was correct, then the dagger was probably poisoned, but this wouldn’t be a problem. After all, her giant half had an incredible resistance towards poisons and the like. Terra would just act as though it took effect, but would attack once their guard was down. Unsheathing the small dagger, Terra gripped the handle as she tried to mentally prepare herself with what was going to happen next. Plunging the knife into her right thigh, Terra couldn’t help but wince as pain shot through her leg. Tossing the dagger away, Terra stared back at the stranger.

Terra was surprised as seconds later she collapsed onto the ground. A look of shock crossed her face as her muscles seemed to have lost all will to obey her. Falling over, Terra was left a view of the group as the stranger approached her.

“You’re probably thinking of ‘how did this affect me’ aren’t you? You really shouldn’t underestimate the work of professionals. I’m surprised that you’re still alive to tell you the truth.” said the stranger standing in front of Terra’s body.

“But that can be arranged.” replied the stranger.

Delivering a swift kick to her stomach, Terra let out a grunt. This guy was a lot stronger that most, and his blows actually hurt. Continuing his onslaught, Terra winced as each hit fell. After the ninth or tenth hit, she felt a slight warmth as Icarus regained consciousness. Looking over at the accomplice, Terra’s eyes met with Icarus’. After another blow landed, Terra felt a terrible rage emit from the sphere.

We’ll only get one shot.

If Terra wasn’t looking at them, then she wouldn’t have believed her eyes. Grabbing onto the blade of the knife, a small flash went along the base of the blade. A small decrease in Icarus’ stamina followed the flash as the blade broke off the knife. Using the rest of the blade in his hand, Icarus jabbed it into the man’s side, forcing him to drop Icarus in surprise. Hearing the man yelp, the stranger turned to see Icarus running straight at him. Preparing to kick Icarus away, the stranger was surprised as Icarus hit the ground with both of his palms.

A dramatic drop in Icarus’ stamina came as the ground the stranger was standing on burst into a giant cloud of dust. Being blinded, the stranger started thrashing about while trying to get the dust from his eyes. Making one final dash, Icarus collided into Terra’s torso. Placing both hands onto Terra, A green light engulfed her for a second. Collapsing onto her, Icarus was beyond spent as the rest of his stamina disappeared. Regardless of any command, his body was too worn out to listen.
With the sudden flash of green light, Terra felt all her pain vanish. She also found that she could move again as the poison had now seemed to have disappeared. Her only worry was that Icarus’ stamina was nearly gone. Grabbing Icarus with one hand, Terra quickly got to her feet making sure to keep Icarus secured in her arm. Turning towards the stranger, Terra would have no problem taking him down. Sprinting forward, a single blow to his ribs sent the stranger flying. At least half a dozen ribs broke in the impact.
After quickly defeating the last two guys, Terra was convinced not to kill them all by Icarus. This didn’t stop her from breaking a few bones of course. Making sure that Icarus was secured in her arms again, Terra started to make their way to the inn. They walked in silence for a while, Terra thinking of what Icarus just did, and Icarus just too tired to try. Being way too tired to even sit up. Icarus was fighting to stay awake. Ducking underneath a branch, Terra was surprised as it was Icarus that broke the silence.

Can you put me down, I’m about to be sick.

Not skipping a beat, Terra gently lowered him to the ground. Still holding him up, Terra waited as Icarus emptied his stomach of all its contents. Waiting for a moment for him to finish, Terra gently picked him back up and continued her way back to the inn.

I knew you would find me… said Icarus as the lights of the inn came into view.

“I thought you couldn’t use magic.” replied Terra.

Waiting a few seconds for a response, Terra was surprised as a light snore came from her arms. Looking down, terra noticed that Icarus was already fast asleep. Glad that they were both safe, Terra decided that some answers could wait for tomorrow.

It was some time past noon when Terra decided that they deserved to take break.  The incident at the inn was behind them, but Icarus had remained silent all morning.  Terra could sense that Icarus was still tired from the events of the night before.  She had to keep a close eye on him to make sure that he didn’t fall off of his pony.  They were only a few days travel away from Regalia, but Terra wanted to do a few things before they got there.  After finding a suitable resting area, Terra gently lifted Icarus off of the pony.  Laying him down against her pack, she soon found Icarus drifting off to sleep.    Making sure that the pony was secured to a nearby tree, Terra went into the woods in order to find some fire wood.  Looking into the back of her mind, Terra made sure that Icarus was still asleep as she searched the surrounding area.  Terra was surprised at the toll, both physically and mentally, that the magic last night took on Icarus’ body.  Hopefully by the time that he would awaken, Icarus would be able to give her some answers.    The only clue that she had was the change that the sphere had taken.  A small portion at the top of the sphere had changed to a slightly lighter color than the rest of the surroundings.  What was also weird was that Terra could actually uncover this part slightly.  Once uncovered, that part of the sphere would start to glow.    Terra had been experimenting with this part that morning, but had to stop once she saw the physical effects it had upon Icarus.  Every time she would mentally touch that part of the sphere, the sleeping Icarus would give out a moan.  It wasn’t a moan of pain, but pleasure in fact.  This was evident by the little tent that sprouted under Icarus’ blanket.  Terra was somehow able to stop herself through sheer willpower from taking advantage of the sleeping Icarus.  Terra found herself pushing the sphere just so she could hear the adorable moans that came from her friend.  Terra promised herself that she wouldn’t force anything upon Icarus until he was ready.      Icarus awoke to the sound of crackling firewood and the smell of some kind of soup.  Slowly sitting up, Icarus looked over to see a massive form in front of him.  He was about to panic until he realized that it was just Terra.   “I see that you’re finally awake sleepy head.” said Terra as she handed him his waterskin.   How long have I been out? thought Icarus as he gulped down some water.   “Just a little while, here have some.” replied Terra as she handed him a bowl full of soup.    Unlike that morning, Icarus found that he was famished.  Terra could sense this as she refilled his bowl.  Terra was happy that Icarus was actually eating again.  They continued to finish their meal in silence.  It was finally broken after a while by Icarus himself.   Thank you for saving me.  Came a quiet thought from Icarus.   “I should be the one thanking you.  If it wasn’t for you, we would have been in a lot worst position.” Terra remarked before she finished off the rest of her soup.   “I do have one question though.  If I’m correct, then what you did last night was magic wasn’t it?” asked Terra as she looked over at Icarus.   I think so replied Icarus.   “Then my next question is how did you do it?”   I really don’t know, I kind of lost myself for a moment.  I just pictured what I wanted and it happened    They sat in silence again as they both pondered what it meant.  Packing back up the rest of their possessions, Terra picked up a small stick.  Inspiration finally hit Terra as she tossed Icarus the stick.  Taking the stick in his hands, Icarus was confused as to what Terra wanted.   “Try and use magic to break that stick.” said Terra as she couched in front of Icarus.    Taking the stick in between his fingers, Icarus focused on breaking the stick.  After a minute of nothing, Icarus looked back up at Terra.   I don’t think this is going to work.  replied Icarus as he looked up at Terra.   “Just keep trying, we have a full day of traveling ahead of us.” said Terra as she gently patted Icarus’ head.   “Do you think you can stand?” asked Terra as she finished getting the pony ready. I think so.      Getting on her knees in front of Icarus, Terra completely dwarfed her friend.  With a little help from Terra, Icarus was finally able to stand on his feet.  Of course this didn’t last long as Icarus’ legs gave way as he took his first step.  Falling forward, Icarus tried to stop himself as he crashed into Terra.  Terra smiled as she placed one hand underneath of Icarus’ bottom to help him back up to his feet again.  Holding onto Terra, Icarus tried to steady himself.  It wasn’t till Terra coughed that Icarus realized what he was holding onto.   “If you wanted a feel, you only needed to ask.  Since it’s you I don’t mind.” replied Terra with a sheepish grin.    Looking back down at his hands, Icarus noticed that his hands where holding onto each of Terra’s breasts.  His hands just looked so tiny compared to the mammoths that were contained underneath of Terra’s shirt.  Blushing a dark red, Icarus let go of her breasts.  Icarus of course forgot the reason that he was holding on to her as he soon found himself falling backwards.  Before he could hit the ground however, a giant set of hands caught him and lifted him off the ground.  Seconds later Icarus found himself back into his saddle.   “I guess you’ve still haven’t fully recovered yet.” said Terra as she tightened the straps that held Icarus.   I guess not.  Thought Icarus as he adverted his eyes to the side.   “I can’t believe that you’d take advantage of an innocent girl in that kind of situation.  I’ll have to be on guard around you.” said Terra as she covered her chests with her hands.    This of course made Icarus blush an even darker shade of red after this, to which Terra just laughed.  Bending over Terra used one hand to turn Icarus’ head to face her direction, while the other hand pulled her tunic downwards.  In front of Icarus was a chasm of cleavage that could easily envelope over half of his body.   “If you ever want more, then all you have to do is ask.  I promise to be gentle with you.” said Terra to a stunned Icarus.   Letting go of Icarus, Terra suppressed a giggle as Icarus tried to cover a natural reaction.  Icarus’ reactions were beyond adorable, and Terra knew that the day would eventually come when Icarus was ready to accept her offer.  Grabbing the reins of the pony, Terra started back on the way towards Regalia with a flustered Icarus in tow.

The day seemed to have lasted longer than usual to Icarus as he twisted the stick between his fingers.  Evening time was closing in along with the end of their day of traveling.  Terra had insisted on him trying to break this stick all day, but Icarus hadn’t made any progress.  They had made it to the outskirts of the Great Forest by the time that Terra decided to set up camp.  Unlike their previous camping spots, the Great Forest just seemed different.  Looking at her surroundings, even Terra felt small as she looked at the trees that towered above her.  Hundreds of feet above her head, Terra could hear the vast assortment of birds singing.  The sounds of the birds gave the forest an almost serene feeling.  It was easy to tell that fall was starting as a light layer of golden leaves covered the ground.  After unstrapping Icarus, Terra gently lifted him from the pony and placed him on the ground.  Terra was glad as Icarus had finally recovered from his exhaustion.  After making sure that the pony was secured to a nearby tree, Terra had Icarus follow her into the woods to collect fire wood. “According to our map, we are less than a day away from the city.” said Terra as she tied another log to her stack. What do you think we’ll find once we get there? asked Icarus as he picked up another stick. “Truthfully I don’t know, but hopefully it’ll be something useful.” replied Terra as she tossed another two logs onto her pile. I think you might have gone overboard with the firewood. thought Icarus as he eyed Terra’s pile.  Looking back at her pile, Terra giggled as she realized that she had collected enough firewood for at least three nights.  Terra had amassed a stack that was easily over five feet tall.  Unlike Icarus’ stack of sticks, Terra’s stack consisted of mostly logs. You can drop a few of them and we can head back.  Icarus thought as he eyed the massive stack. “Nah, I’ll just take them all just in case.” replied Terra.  Grabbing ahold of the ropes with her right hand, Terra easily lifted the stack off the ground.  Throwing it behind her shoulder, Terra started walking back towards camp.  She shortly stopped as she realized that Icarus had yet to follow her.  Looking behind her, Terra noticed that Icarus had yet to lift his stack up. “Do you need some help?” asked Terra as she walked back over towards Icarus. How are you able to lift that stack with only one hand! thought Icarus amazed. “It’s only weighs around five hundred pounds.” said Terra nonchalantly.  It wasn’t until she had finished her sentence that she realized what Icarus was amazed about. “I guessed you never knew that I’m one strong girl.” giggled Terra flexing her left bicep.  Icarus was momentarily frightened at the thought of one person having so much power.  His fear grew for a moment as flash backs of the many beatings that he had went through from both adults and children that were stronger than he was.  Feeling Icarus’ unease, Terra gently picked put Icarus in her free hand.  Giving him a gentle kiss his forehead, Terra was relieved as Icarus calmed down.  It didn’t take long for Terra to arrive back at camp. “Do you want to get a fire going while I set our tent up?” asked Terra as she untied her wood stack. Sure replied Icarus as he started making a fireplace.  Once Icarus was confident that his fireplace was sufficient, he ran into another problem.  The logs that Terra had picked up were too big to be placed on the fire.  Retrieving his axe from his pack, Icarus pulled one of the smaller logs away from the stack.  A few minutes went by as Icarus chopped away at the logs.  Brushing a light sweat away from his eyes, Icarus rubbed his shoulder as he looked at the log in front of him.  Icarus had just finished the first log before he had started on this one.  This log was around two feet thick and was a lot harder to cut than the previous one.  His hands were a little numb, but this didn’t bother him.  Icarus was about to start at it again until a hand gently came down on his shoulder. “How’s it going over here?” asked Terra as she examined the log. It’s taking a while, but I’m getting there.  Replied Icarus as he took a drink of water. “Let me help you out.” Terra said as she gently pushed Icarus to the side.  Getting a good grip on her own axe, Terra swung it down upon the log.  Icarus jumped back as a loud thud echoed through the forest.  With ease, Terra took the now chomped off log and tossed it over in the pile.  With other eight or nine swings, Terra had already finished off the first log and was starting on her second. I’ll start on that fire now.  said an impressed Icarus. “Ok, I’ll be done in a few minutes.” replied Terra as she continued cutting the wood.  After several failed attempts, Icarus was finally able to get a small fire going.  As soon as Icarus had his fire started, Terra had finished cutting enough wood for the night.  Throwing a few logs onto the fire, Terra pulled out some hardtack biscuits, dried berries, and some dried salted pork.  Handing Icarus a more than fair share, Terra dug into her meal. “You’d think that someone would come up with a biscuit that could both last and have flavor.” commented Terra as she took a bite out of one of her biscuits. I think that they’re pretty good actually.  Replied Icarus as he took a bite out of his. “Are you kidding me, these things could be mistaken for a rock.” said Terra as she finished off the one in her hands. I’ve had a lot worst.  You wouldn’t believe what Phillip thought was acceptable for me to eat.  replied Icarus.  The couple continued to eat their dinner with minor conversation.  It wasn’t long till they had both finished with their meal.  Sitting around the fire, Terra was busy sharpening her knife, while Icarus was still focusing on his stick.  The full chill of night had set in as Terra finished up sharpening her knife.  It felt cool to Terra, but not cold enough for her to be uncomfortable.  For Icarus on the other hand, the cold of night was starting to get to him.  Scooting closer to the fireplace, Icarus rubbed his hands against his arms to maintain body heat.  This didn’t go unnoticed as he soon found himself lifted into the air.  Icarus soon found himself placed on top of Terra’s lap as she secured him with both arms wrapped around his stomach. “Comfy?” asked Terra as she started playing with his hair. Yes replied Icarus as he started to blush lightly.  It was true that now with Terra’s body around him, Icarus was quite warm.  He was also surprised at how soft his new seat was.  Icarus continued to focus on his stick, but the pleasant smell of Terra and her overwhelming presence made it difficult.  Finally giving up, Icarus decided to relax in Terra’s embrace. I don’t think that this is working. Said Icarus as he twisted the stick in his hands. “Hmm, let me see if I can help.” replied Terra.  Closing her eyes, Terra focused on the all too familiar sphere in the back of her mind.  It was currently emitting a pleasant warmth that told her that Icarus was content.  Looking at the top of the sphere, Terra gently removed the transparent layer from the top.  This of course got the reaction that Terra expected.  A small moan escaped involuntarily from Icarus’ lips, as a wave of pleasure washed over his body.  Quickly covering his mouth, Icarus blushed a deep red as he tried to calm himself down.  Icarus hoped that Terra hadn’t noticed as he soon realized that he couldn’t reach his waist to adjust himself.  Terra could feel Icarus’ heart racing underneath of her arms.  She had to bite down on her lower lip to stop herself as she heard the moan escape from Icarus. “Are you alright, I’m not holding you too tight am I?” asked Terra innocently. I’m fine; you’re not holding me too tightly.  Replied a nervous Icarus. “Oh, that’s good then.” said Terra as she tightened her hold on Icarus. “How about you try breaking that stick now?” asked Terra as she pulled Icarus up higher.  Focusing back on the branch, Icarus felt something different.  It wasn’t the pleasant feeling from before, but something that he couldn’t put his finger on.  Using his right hand, Icarus placed it over the center of the branch.  To both his and Terra’s surprise a small flash of light emitted from under Icarus’ hand.  Terra felt a small drop in Icarus’ stamina as he held up two separate pieces of wood. “You did it!” squealed Terra as she turned him around to give him a hug.  Icarus was equally as happy as she was, but he was soon reminded of how he was being held.  He found that he was being pressed into Terra’s chest.  Blushing a dark red, Icarus tried to calm down his body before Terra noticed.  Of course, this meant that he wasn’t aware of the constant drain on his remaining stamina.  This didn’t go unnoticed by Terra as she felt Icarus’ stamina slowly draining away.  It wasn’t much, mostly equivalent to walking on a road, but Terra wasn’t sure when it would stop.  Now knowing how Icarus’ magic worked, Terra came up with an idea of how to stop his stamina from dwindling.  Closing her eyes, Terra was soon brought back to the sphere in the back of her mind.  Without thinking, she quickly recovered the top of the sphere, a little rougher than what she should have.  This wasn’t her best idea, as she felt Icarus tense up against her body.  The feeling of pleasure hit Icarus hard as he bucked his hips forward involuntarily.  This intense feeling, combined with his soft surroundings and the first wave from earlier, Icarus couldn’t stop himself from what happened next.  Terra heard a muffled moan come from between her breasts that was soon followed by a significant drop in Icarus’ stamina.  This drop wasn’t from using magic Terra realized as Icarus came in her arms.  It was now Terra’s turn to blush red as Icarus remained in his hazy moment of bliss. “Are you ok?” asked Terra as she lifted Icarus in front of her.  As soon as her eyes noticed the wet spot at Icarus’ groin, the sphere started shaking as a massive wave of embarrassment emitted from within it.  For the first time, Terra didn’t know what to do as she looked back up at Icarus.  If looks were any indication of what she was in for, then Terra knew she was in trouble. “I’m sorry.” said Terra with a sheepish grin. TERRAAAAA!  Came a shout from Icarus.

“Come on Icarus,” whined Terra, “come back into the tent.” No replied Icarus as he tightened his hold on his blankets. “I’ve already said I’m sorry.” said Terra as she poked her head out of the tent. No said Icarus again as he turned the other way.  The night air was cold and would only get worse as the night went on.  The accident had been more than embarrassing for Icarus and Terra knew it was her fault.  It had been an awkward conversation as Terra explained the mechanism for Icarus to use his magic.  Being the noble woman that she was, Terra was forced to stand behind a tree as Icarus changed his clothing in their tent.  The sphere was now a light grey blue in color which meant to Terra that Icarus was feeling insecure.  Her only objective right now was for Icarus to get back into the tent for the night. “Icarus, its cold outside and will only be getting colder.  Will you please come inside.” asked Terra again. No came the same reply Terra had been hearing for the last half an hour.  Terra decided then that she had to do something about it. “Will you come in if I make things even with you?” asked Terra as she exited the tent. What do you mean? asked Icarus as he turned over. “I’m going to do something that’s embarrassing so that you’ll finally get inside the tent.” replied Terra as she dropped her pants down.  Icarus’ heart began to race as Terra continued to get undressed. Please stop Terra. said a now scarlet Icarus.  By this point, Terra was standing in front of Icarus in only her underwear. “Not until you get inside of the tent.” replied Terra as she knelt down on top of Icarus.  Icarus was pinned in place from his waist down as Terra shifted her weight.  He knew that Terra wasn’t using a fraction of her weight to pin him to the ground, but he was still uneasy about it.  Icarus was struggling from an inward battle about what to do next.  A part of him wanted Terra to continue, but another half was telling him to stop her.  Terra had just now removed her bra and was holding one arm across her, to him, colossal bust.  It was at this time that he finally made his decision. Ok, I’ll get into the tent!  Just get dressed. said Icarus as he covered his eyes. “Ok then, feel free to peak if you want.” giggled Terra as she stood back up.  Turning her back towards her companion, Terra slowly redressed herself.  Terra knew that Icarus had indeed stolen a few glances because of the link that she had with him.  Of course Terra had no plans on confronting Icarus about it.  Hopefully in time he would grow a little boulder, but until then Terra would provide him with copious amounts of chances. “Time for bed.” said Terra as she finished adjusting her clothes.  Icarus didn’t have an opportunity to respond as he was soon lifted into the air.  Carrying Icarus back to the tent, Terra got down on all fours to enter it.  The tent was seven feet wide, seven feet tall and 14 feet long.  This meant that there was plenty of room for a sleeping girl like Terra, but still small enough as to keep a relatively warmer temperature.  With Icarus still in one arm, Terra made herself comfortable as she pulled her blanket over the both of them. I can sleep by myself.  said Icarus. “You could, but this way we’ll both stay warm.” chimed Terra as she pulled Icarus closer.  Even though Icarus was ‘verbally’ against it, his body was a lot more compliant as he scooted closer towards Terra for warmth.  Terra found it adorable as she placed one arm over her friend.  Icarus was just so small compared to her as his head was resting in front of her breasts and his feet were about even with her waist. Terra?  asked Icarus. “What is it?” asked Terra as she glanced downward. Can you tell me about another one of your adventures?  asked Icarus looking upwards. “Sure, no problem.” replied Terra.  Terra went on to tell Icarus about the first time that she ever lost a drinking contest to some weird dwarf.  Terra was about half way through her story when Icarus finally fell asleep.  Tomorrow would be a big day as they would finally reach the ancient city of Regalia.  Deciding to turn in for the night, Terra nuzzled closer as she soon drifted off to sleep.   It was around noon as Terra and Icarus was met with a most peculiar sight.  Ahead of them, around a hundred yards away, the road ended abruptly into a dense wall of trees.  A wall was the perfect name for it as hundreds of trees stood right beside each other as far as Terra could see.  The trees were tight enough together that even a piece of parchment wouldn’t be able to pass in between them.  Climbing was out of the question because the lowest branches were over fifty feet above Terra’s head. “So this must be Regalia.” said Terra as she examined the area where the road seemed to end. Yes it is.  stated Icarus as he started undoing his straps. “How are we supposed to get inside?” asked Terra as she helped Icarus off the pony. You just have to bend the trees to reveal the opening.  stated Icarus as he looked around. “And how do you know such a thing?” asked Terra as she eyed her companion.  It then dawned on Icarus that he had just answered a question about a place he had never been and knew nothing about. I really don’t know. came a quiet reply. “So how do we open the path?” asked Terra as she decided not to push the subject. By magic if I’m correct. replied Icarus after hesitating for a moment. “Really now.” stated Terra with a smile. Wait a second. said Icarus as he held up his hands. “What is it?” asked Terra as she put on her most innocent face. Have you tried removing the top of the sphere without actually touching it? asked an already nervous Icarus. “Hmm, I guess I could give it a shot.” replied Terra as she thought of the concept.  Closing her eyes, Terra once again found the familiar sphere in the back of her mind.  From the times that she had played with it, Terra knew that the film had nearly no resistance to it.  Getting close to it, Terra let out as gentle a gust of wind as she could.  To her surprise, the gust of wind was strong enough to uncover the top of the sphere.  Icarus felt the effects immediately as his heart sped up and the same weird feeling as earlier spread across his body.  Terra was a little disappointed as the only side effects this time seemed to be an increased heart rate.  She found that she was missing the cute little moans that Icarus made.  Letting this slide to the back of her mind, Terra observed what Icarus would do next.  Walking up towards the tree that stated where the road ended, Icarus placed his palm upon the bark.  As soon Icarus’ hand made contact, a bright green light pulsed outwards from underneath.  Expanding outwards in a circle, Terra was surprised as the trees themselves started to separate creating a massive tunnel that led towards the other side.  As soon as the tunneled finished forming and the green light vanished, Terra felt a substantial drop in Icarus’ stamina.  Icarus soon found the ground closing in as his legs gave way underneath him.  Before he hit the ground however, a set of hands caught him and gently placed him on the ground. “Are you ok?” asked Terra as she supported Icarus. Yeah, just winded, replied a panting Icarus, I’ll be ok in a minute. “I got to turn it off.” said Terra as she came back to the sphere. Just be gentle like before.  said a still panting Icarus.  Closing in on the sphere a mischievous smile came across Terra’s face.  Placing one finger gently on the sphere, Terra covered up the top inhibiting the small drain towards Icarus’ stamina.  This didn’t go unnoticed by Icarus as another small moan escaped his lips involuntarily.  Terra savored the sound as Icarus turned towards her with an accusing eye. “I’m sorry.” giggled Terra as she ruffled Icarus’ hair. 

I'm submitting this in a plain text file from my phone so hopefully this will allow me to get rid of the block formating so that you guys can read it easier. Also to note, since I can't put anything in italics i'll be using [ ] to show what Icarus is saying. Again please leave a review telling me what your favorite part of the entire story is and your least favorite part.


Majestic would be the best word that Terra would use to explain the city of Regalia. After Icarus had regained his strength, Terra followed Icarus into the city. Unlike most cities that Terra had traveled through, the houses in the city of Regalia were formed from the trees that covered the land. If it wasn’t for the houses, Terra would have believed that she was still inside the forest. Nine years of being abandoned had not diminished the beauty of this city. Passing through rows upon rows of trees, Terra wondered where Icarus was taking her.

Icarus was experiencing mixed emotions as he walked throughout the city. A nostalgic feeling of peace that covered a deep sadness flowed through Icarus as he walked. Moss had mostly covered the stone pathways, but Icarus knew which way he should go. What he would find would be a surprise to him, but he knew that that place was where he needed to be.

“Where are we going exactly?” asked Terra after walking in silence for the last fifteen minutes.

[I don’t know, but we’re close. Only a hundred yards away.] replied Icarus as he stepped over a fallen branch. It didn’t take long for Terra and Icarus to reach their destination as they soon stepped into a clearing.

“It’s beautiful.” whispered Terra as she took in the site before her.

Stretching a couple of hundred feet upwards stood the largest tree that Terra had ever seen. The trees that they had previously passed were easily dwarfed in comparison by this one. Molded from this tree expanding towards the couple was a wooden bridge leading towards a set of giant wooden doors. The bridge itself was supported by two rows of smaller trees that seemed to have merged with the bridge itself. Hundreds of windows could faintly be seen lining the front of this grand tree. The most beautiful feature was a grand water fall that flowed out of the top right side of the tree into a small lake. Terra knew this had to have been the palace.

“How did the elves create this?” asked Terra in wonder.

[The palace was made a long time ago, but the waterfall was added upon the request of Ariel after visiting the home of the dwarves. It took our best artisans a decade to get it finished.] replied Icarus as he gazed upon palace.

“And who is Ariel?” asked Terra as she crouched down beside Icarus.

[Our queen] whispered Icarus as a single tear fell from his eye.

“Are you starting to remember something?” asked Terra as she gently brushed away the single tear.

[No], replied Icarus as he cast he gaze downwards, [I don’t remember any of this.]

Terra knew that Icarus was telling the truth so she decided not to push the subject farther. Taking Icarus’ hand Terra led the way towards the palace doors. It didn’t take long for Terra and Icarus to cross the bridge, but once she made it to the doors she was met with a problem. While the left door was closed, the right door was slightly ajar. This left enough room for a normal sized person to get through; Terra had no chance of squeezing between the opening. Seeing Terra’s problem, Icarus volunteered to open the door for her but Terra declined. Looking upwards, Terra estimated that the door was a little less than thirty feet tall and twelve feet wide.

Placing both hands upon the door Terra let out a grunt as she started pushing the door open. Within a few seconds, a gap had formed that would let Terra pass through easily. Taking a few seconds to catch her breath, Terra preceded to tie up their pony to one of the trees supporting the bridge. Leaving their packs with the pony, Terra took only her sword and a small, to her, sack inside. Icarus decided to bring his own dagger along just in case.

After passing through the entrance, Terra found herself walking through an elaborate hallway. It may have been dusty and weathered, but Terra imagined what this place looked like over nine years ago. The walls were lined with extravagant vases that now supported long dead plants. Dozens of paintings lined the wall along with several dusty suits of armor. Doorways were scattered along both sides, leading no doubt, to other parts of the palace. It wasn’t until Icarus made it close to the end of the hallway that Icarus stopped in front of two portraits.

Observing the portrait on the left, Terra found that it featured two elves holding each other over a cradle. The man had dark blonde hair medium short hair with dark green eyes, and looked no older than thirty. When it came to elves though, it was impossible to tell their age from their looks. In his arms stood a woman with long platinum blonde hair and crystal blue eyes. The word beautiful did nothing to describe the woman in front of her. Looking at the bottom of the picture was a plate that read ‘King Gabriel and Queen Ariel at the day of Prince Exia’s birth’.

Looking over towards the right hung another portrait of a lone individual standing in the forest. He was clad in a dark blue tunic with leather armor covering most of his upper body. In his hand the man held a spear while the other hand was wiping the sweat from his neck. The man had the same platinum blonde hair as Ariel, yet possessed a set of dark green eyes like Gabriel. A bubbly feeling came over Terra as she looked at this man. Another plate was under this portrait as well. Inscribed on the plate were the words ‘Prince Exia, our greatest treasure’.

After a while, Terra looked down at Icarus to find tears falling from his face. He didn’t look sad, nor was the sphere indicating sadness at this level. Icarus noticed Terra staring at him and realized that he had been crying.

“Are you alright?” asked Terra as she wiped off Icarus’ face.

[Yeah I’m fine; I just don’t know what the tears are about.] replied Icarus.

[I think that we should continue onward.] said Icarus as he continued walking down the hallway.

Following Icarus, Terra soon found herself standing in what she considered the throne room. It was at this point that Icarus froze. Noticing this Terra found that unlike the rest of the palace, half of this room was black. Under further inspection she found that there must have been a fire of some sorts because the vases, tables, paintings, and even the walls and floors were burnt. It was truly a travesty, but at least it didn’t spread throughout the tree.

[What happened here?] stated a frozen Icarus.

“I’m guessing that a lamp or candle must have fallen and started a fire.” replied Terra. It was at this moment that she realized that the sphere in the back of her mind was emitting strong waves of fear. Looking back at Icarus, Terra found him slightly trembling.

“Icarus what’s wrong.” asked Terra as she bent down and grabbed his shoulders. Looking up into her eyes, Icarus whispered one sentence.

[The trees of Regalia cannot be burned.]

Chapter 16

“Icarus, you have to calm down.” said Terra as she grabbed Icarus’ shoulder gently.

Pulling Icarus into her embrace, Terra gently swung him back and forth. After a minute Icarus’ fear subsided as he was brought out of his stupor. After Terra felt that Icarus was finally calm, she placed him gently back on the ground.

“Are you alright now?” asked Terra as she looked into his eyes.

[Yeah I’m ok now, but we got to go and I’m going to need my magic] replied Icarus as he broke their embrace.

Focusing on the sphere in the back of her mind, Terra gently blew off the thin covering. Icarus felt the effects immediately as magic flowed from within him. Looking back at Icarus, Terra followed him towards the center of the room.

“Where are we going?” asked Terra as she looked around. Terra could see a faint smile come across Icarus’ face as he looked back at her.

[The workshop] replied Icarus as he placed his hand upon the ground.

The amount of stamina drained from Icarus was barely noticeable as his hand touched the ground, but Terra felt the effects immediately. Several loud clicks followed as Terra soon found herself descending on a platform. It was gradual at first, but soon the platform accelerated to uncomfortable speeds. It was only a second as Terra and Icarus came to a slow stop in front of a massive passageway. Looking upwards, Terra could see the opening above them close a few hundred feet above her head.

Terra was surprised that she could still see with the opening above them completely shut. It took her a moment to realize that a blue light was coming from the passage way in front of them. Under further inspection, Terra found the blue light was coming from some glowing blue rocks that lined the walls.

“Saphirite?” asked a shocked Terra as she examined the stone.

[What’s Saphirite?] asked Icarus as he inspected the glowing rocks.

“It’s a special type of rock that is only found in very remote regions. I’ve only ever seen it once when I was a little girl.” replied Terra as she admired the wall.

[I guess that we don’t need a torch then.] said Icarus as he made his way down the passageway.

Terra followed Icarus down the passageway for around a hundred meters until they came upon a rather large chamber, Terra estimated that the room was over a hundred feet by two hundred feet. The room was illuminated by the same Saphirite that had lined the passageway. The only two features that this room had was a set of seven passages that lined the opposite wall, and a large podium that overlooked a shattered pod.

Walking up towards the pod, Terra found that the twisted metal and busted glass had the same scorch marks that the floor above them had. The only difference that Terra noticed was that the burned marks that surrounded the pod were far older than the ones above them.

“Whatever burned the tree must have attacked this pod.” remarked Terra as she examined the busted pod.

[And this must be the pod that Atticus told us that they stored Prince Exia in.] stated Icarus as he looked around this area.

“Then what happened here?” asked Terra.

Walking up to the podium, Icarus found rows of inner locking circles that converged onto a small red crystal. A faint gleam came from within the red gem as Icarus looked around the podium. Icarus felt an unnatural pull towards this crystal as he stretched his hand forwards. His hand was mere inches way when a red spark connected Icarus to the gem for the smallest amount of time. Jumping backwards, both Icarus and Terra found the podium’s rings spinning rapidly as a hissing sound filled the room. Moments later the red jewel was flooded with light as a picture started to form above it. Seconds later the image finally took the form of a relatively old man.

“Icarus my son, if you are seeing this then you have finally found your partner.” replied the man as Terra and Icarus stood in silence.

“I don’t have much time to explain so I’ll make this short. Gideon’s full revival is drawing close; even as we speak his former minions are making their move. There is only one way to stop this from happening. You and your partner are going to have to collect the five sacred treasures and destroy Gideon’s vessel before he regains his full power. The first treasure is hidden within this workshop, but you’ll know where to find it. Only you two will be able to stop this disaster from happening and save our people.” stated the man as he raised his hand.

Terra and Icarus were silent as they took in what this figure was saying. It was at this point that the man started speaking again.

“Icarus, I’m sorry but you must sleep a little longer.” said the man as a flash came from his hand.

After the flash, Terra saw Icarus collapse to the ground unconscious. Unlike when Icarus was usually asleep, the sphere in the back of her mind was unresponsive. It was only a few seconds after Icarus hit the ground that the man started speaking.

“I have yet to introduce myself; my name is Daedalus the creator of both Icarus and the sacred treasures. I’m sorry to have placed a task of this size upon you, but you have to help Icarus. I came to the conclusion years ago that Gideon was never truly defeated and that he would return someday, but I also foresaw a possibility that he would find a way to get rid of his biggest threat. It was with this in mind that I would create a body that was impervious to the magic that had devastated the elves over a hundred years ago. I would then add a soul with the capability of wielding the sacred treasures. Unfortunately I could not complete my work in time which has left Icarus in his fragile form and his dependence on a partner. The second problem is that I wasn’t able to purify his soul completely. It is because of this that Icarus must never learn the two things that I’m about to tell you.”



After saying his final words, another flash came from Daedalus’ hand as his image dissipated. The podium started making a hissing noise as it slowly came to a stop. Terra gently picked up Icarus as moments later he started to stir from his slumber.

[Where are we?] asked a dazed Icarus.

“We were listening to the podium when you mysteriously fell asleep.” replied Terra as she sat him down.

[So that wasn’t a dream?] asked a worried Icarus.

“It wasn’t a dream Icarus. Why are you worried?” asked Terra as she crouched down to his level.

[It’s because he wants us to do something that even the prince couldn’t do.] replied Icarus.

“Don’t worry Icarus, I’m sure that we can tackle anything that comes our way.” said Terra as she ruffled Icarus’ hair.

[Where do we go from here] asked Icarus.

“I’m guessing that we have to grab the first treasure that’s in this place.” replied Terra as she faced the seven passageways.

Chapter 17

“Do you have any idea which way we’re supposed to go?” asked Terra as she faced the seven passage ways in front of her.

[Um, I think that we should go through the fifth door] replied Icarus after he examined each passageway.

“You don’t sound very confident but what is the worst that can happen?” replied Terra as she looked through the doorway.

[Well probably death, but I’ve been pretty accurate since we’ve gotten here] replied Icarus as he took a hesitant step forward.

After walking forward twenty yards, the passageway turned towards the right. The number of turns that they made increased steadily until Terra had lost all sense of direction. Fortunately enough the Saphirite that lined the corridor had given more than enough light for Terra and Icarus to navigate. After a few more minutes Terra and Icarus rounded a turn towards a straight away.

“Is that our destination?” asked Terra as she ducked under another low lying archway.

[Hopefully, at least it seems like we’ve chosen the right pathway.] said Icarus.

It was at this moment that Terra heard a loud clunking sound as her foot lowered a few inches. Less than a second later Terra found the ground below them give way as her and Icarus fell downwards. Reaching over, Terra grabbed ahold of Icarus and held him tightly against her stomach as she waited for impact.

Terra soon felt a sharp pain against her back as she was quickly submerged in ice cold water. Terra let out a little gasp as the torrent of water pulled her downwards through a tunnel. The little escape of air didn’t go unnoticed as her lungs started burning. Holding Icarus tightly, Terra fought her way upwards for air. She soon found that it was hopeless as the tunnel was completely filled with water. The burning sensation was soon becoming unbearable when a small shock ran through her system.

The shock surprised her enough that the remaining air in her lungs was unexpectedly exhaled. It came to a bigger surprised that Terra found that she could actually breath in fresh air. Terra was momentarily confused by the fact that she was still being pulled through the tunnel. It wasn’t until she noticed a steady drain on Icarus’ stamina that she knew what had happened.

[Take a deep breath, I don’t know how much longer I can hold my breath] stated Icarus as he started trembling.

Black dots were starting to fill his already blurry vision as he felt himself losing consciousness. Feeling Icarus’ distress, Terra swam forward trying to get to the end of the tunnel. Icarus was seconds away from losing it when Terra came up with an idea. Pulling Icarus to her face, Terra placed one hand behind his head while the other held him close. Icarus couldn’t figure out what was happening as his lungs gave out, releasing the air inside. Pushing his face into hers, Terra forced open Icarus’ mouth with her tongue forming a seal with her lips.

Icarus found relief as air was soon being forced through his mouth to his burning lungs. It took Terra a few tries, but she was able to transfer the right amount of air into Icarus’ smaller lungs. It was an awkward feeling for Icarus as he had no control over his own breathing as Terra took complete control. Terra focused on continuing her breathing pattern as she waited for an opening. A minute later, Terra was pressed against a set of iron bars. Swimming upwards, Terra broke the seal on Icarus’ mouth as they surfaced.

It took Terra a few seconds to find a dry spot after she brushed the wet hair from her eyes. Swimming over to the ledge, Terra gently tossed the still coughing Icarus onto the ledge before she hoisted herself on up. Terra felt a slight shock and the drain on Icarus’ stamina decrease as the magic ended.

“That wasn’t so bad.” replied Terra as she pushed her hair out of her face.

[I wasn’t expecting that trap at the end] replied a panting Icarus.

“Hey, we all have a bad day.” said Terra while ringing out the bottom portion of her shirt. Looking over at Icarus, Terra felt sorry for her smaller companion. Icarus was shaking uncontrollably from their water ride.

“Is there any way that you can fix this?” asked Terra as she motioned to her soaked outfit.

[I’ll try] replied a shivering Icarus.

Grabbing ahold of Terra’s shirt, Icarus closed his eyes and braced himself for what was going to happen next. Feeling a surge of magic flow through him, Icarus focused his thoughts on drying their wet clothes. Almost instantly, all of the moister on both Icarus’ and Terra’s clothing shot outwards leaving their outfits dry. Icarus soon felt breathless as his legs buckled from underneath him. Icarus didn’t hit the ground, however, as he felt Terra’s hands supporting him.

“Are you alright?” asked Terra as she helped stand back up.

[Yeah, I’m fine] replied Icarus as he tried regaining his breath.

Looking around her surroundings, Terra found a ledge several feet above her head. Picking Icarus’ tired form up into her arms, Terra ensured that Icarus had a secured grip as she scaled the wall behind them. It took Terra less than a minute to scale the twenty foot wall as she soon found herself standing on a new pathway.

[Go to the right] said Icarus as Terra placed him back onto the ground.

“It’s your call.” stated Terra as she followed her partner.

Luckily for Terra, this pathway had no turns to it as they walked straight. In no time at all, Terra saw a light getting closer as they continued on the path. A few moments later Icarus and Terra entered into a large empty chamber except for a massive statue overlooking a golden chest. Looking upwards at the statue, Terra estimated that the statue stood around eighteen feet tall. The statue was completely carved out of the same wood as the tree above them. What was noticeable about this statue was the fact that it had the head and legs of a bull, yet had the arms and body of a man. In the statues right hand was a massive wooden hammer while his left hand was balled into a fist.

[The Minotaur] relied Icarus as he stared upwards at the statue.

Terra jumped backwards while drawing her sword as if on command the statue took a step forward. Covering the distance between them in less than a dozen steps, the statue towered over Icarus as it came to a stop. Terra had no idea what was going to happen as the statue glared down at her partner. It came to a surprise to Terra as the statue knelt down on one knee and bowed its head towards Icarus.

“What is it doing?” asked Terra as she stared up at the statue.

“Recognizing its master.” came a reply as dark flames burst outwards from in front of the golden chest.

As the flames receded a hooded figure emerged to stand with his back turned away from the group. Terra could feel a slight rumble as the Minotaur shot upwards facing the hooded figure. Terra felt uneasy as the figure turned to face Icarus a sinister smile spreading across his face.

“Its’ been a while hasn’t it Icarus?” replied the hooded figure as he drew his hood back.

Chapter 18

As the man’s hood fell back, both Terra and Icarus was met with something they didn’t expect. The man before them was definitely an elf with his pointed ears and angular face. The man’s two most prominent features were his pitch black short hair and his red glowing eyes. Terra could have sworn that she had seen this man before, but she could not put her finger on it. The room’s temperature seemed to have dropped a few degrees, and Terra felt an overwhelming feeling of dread as the man took a step forward.
“Do you know this guy Icarus?” asked Terra as she lifted her sword into the air.
[Exia…] whispered Icarus as he stared at the man.
“Ah, now that name brings back memories.” laughed the stranger as he brushed his hair out of his eyes. Terra looked on in shock as the man replied to Icarus.
“But I’m afraid that I go by a new name now. You may call me Raphael.” said the man.
[What are you doing here?] asked Icarus taking a step back.
“It depends on who you ask. My father would probably want me to kill the both of you, but what kind of fun would that be. I, on the other hand, am looking for a certain sacred treasure.” replied Raphael.
A mighty roar filled the room as the Minotaur rushed forward towards Raphael. Raising its hammer in the air, the Minotaur rammed it downwards towards Raphael. Terra saw the entire exchange as Raphael’s hand met the hammer on its decent. As soon as it made contact, a red flash emitted at the point as the hammer shattered into a thousand pieces. Taking another swing from the right, Terra was amazed as the hammer reformed itself in less than a second. As the hammer made contact, Raphael’s body disappeared in a body of flames. Raphael reappeared a second later to the right of the Minotaur. Raising both hands, a swirl of dark flames formed as the Minotaur charged forward. As the Minotaur was only a few feet away, Raphael shot the ball of flames forward hitting the guardian in its chest. As the ball made contact, the Minotaur was shot backwards until he crashed into the wall.
Lying motionless, the statue had a large hole gaping in its chest as dark flames continued to burn the surrounding wood. Looking back at Raphael, Terra found him standing before the golden chest. Opening the lid of the chest, Raphael bent over to retrieve the treasure. Turning towards Terra and Icarus, Raphael examined the helmet that he held in his hands.
“Well that was a letdown.” stated Raphael as he tossed the helmet over to Icarus. “I guess that I’m going to have to search for it.” signed Raphael as he brushed his hair out of his eyes. Opening his hands outwards Raphael gave out a little laugh. “I guess that I can’t leave without a parting gift can I.” Pointing a hand at the statue, a red ball shot outwards hitting the Minotaur. “Don’t be mistaken little one, once I find what I’m for I’ll have more than enough power to destroy you.” As Raphael finished his sentence, dark flames engulfed him as he disappeared.
[What do you think he meant?] asked Icarus as he examined the helmet in his hands.
“I think we might have more to worry about.” replied Terra as she pointed towards the wall.
Looking over, Icarus noticed the Minotaur standing upwards as the hole in his chest started to reform. The entirety of its body turned black as its shell quickly burned. Standing up to its full height, the Minotaur let out a roar as it lowered its head.
[Put it on!] shouted Icarus as he rammed the helmet into Terra’s side.
“But it won’t work for me!” replied Terra as she took it in her hand.
[Trust me!] said Icarus he stood in front of her.
Looking down at the helmet, Terra was amazed as it doubled in size in her hand. Placing the helmet over her head, Terra felt the sphere in the back of her mind glow a bright blue. As soon as the helmet was over her head, Terra saw the room in a new light. The shadows in the room had vanished as Terra could see every crevice in the room. The tiniest of details were crystal clear to Terra as she looked around.
[Terra!] shouted Icarus as he ran forward.
Looking back up, Terra saw Icarus just meters away from the charging Minotaur. Slamming his hands to the ground, Terra felt a massive drain on Icarus’ stamina as a stone pillar rushed from the ground hitting the Minotaur in the chest. The pillar continued upwards until it pinned the Minotaur to the ceiling of the chamber. Falling backwards, Icarus hit the ground hard as the effects of his last spell set in. The pillar didn’t hold long as the guardian started pounding away. Rushing forward, Terra grabbed Icarus’ collar and tossed him backwards several meters. As soon as Icarus’ body came to a stop, the Minotaur crashed into the ground.
Looking up at her foe, Terra saw the Minotaur pull back it’s hammer. Terra was about to jump to the right until she noticed something. A clear red replica of the Minotaur was swinging its hammer a few feet before the actual one. As the red hammer went through her body, Terra took a step backwards as the actual hammer soon followed the red hammer’s path. It didn’t take Terra too long to realize that she was seeing the Minotaur’s actions a second before it actually acted. This gave Terra an advantage as she could predict where the Minotaur was going to attack. Terra soon found an opening as she slashed her sword with both hands at the Minotaur’s forearm.
Terra’s sword left a deep gash in the Minotaur’s arm leaving it connected by a few inches. Terra followed this up with several more swings as she dodged in and out of the guardian’s attacks. After Terra landed her fifteenth blow, she noticed her previous attacks already healed. Taking a step back, Terra’s foot caught as she felt herself falling backwards. Knowing that she couldn’t dodge the next attack, Terra closed her eyes as she waited for impact. A moment before the hammer was going to hit her, Terra felt a small impact on her right leg. A shock ran through her body as Icarus’ remaining stamina all but vanished.
Terra soon found herself flying to the right as a mild pain covered her left side. A second later Terra felt both her and Icarus roll across the floor. Raising herself back up, Terra looked around for Icarus. Terra found him only a couple of feet away clutching his side.
“Icarus can you hear me!” shouted Terra as she placed a hand on her head.
Fear ran through her mind as Icarus responded by coughing up blood. Hearing a loud roar, Terra’s eyes shot upwards to look over at the Minotaur. Terra searched around her area looking for her sword as the guarding lowered its head. Not seeing her sword anywhere, Terra desperately tried to come up with an idea as the Minotaur charged forward.
[Break the top of the sphere] came a mysterious voice from the back of her mind.
Seeing no other choice, Terra focused on the sphere in the back of her mind. Finding the dull grey sphere, Terra wasted no time in tearing a hole in the soft opening on top of the sphere. After the top of the sphere was opened, the sphere erupted into a blinding white light as mist flew away from it. A flash of white flew from behind Terra as it crashed into the charging Minotaur. The Minotaur was sent flying backwards as a white figure landed on the ground.
Looking closer, Terra found Icarus standing in the middle of the chamber. A white light was being emitted from his body as he looked back at Terra. His hair changed from its usual messy pale blonde to a bright white. His eyes also turned from blue to white also. Seeing Terra, Icarus gave her a warming smile.
[Don’t worry, this will be over soon] said Icarus as he faced the Minotaur.
Rushing back at Icarus, the Minotaur slammed his hammer downwards. Icarus easily stopped the hammer in its tracks with his right hand. Using his left, Icarus raised it quickly skyward. A moment later, a crack erupted from the Minotaur’s left side as it split in half. Opening his left hand a bright white ball formed as the air started swirling around the room.
[Rest my friend] said Icarus as he hit the Minotaur with the glowing ball.
As soon as the ball touched the guardian, the Minotaur burst into dust as the wind died down. Turning back towards Terra, Icarus made his way across the room. Terra didn’t know what to say as Icarus came to a stop in front of her. She slightly flinched as Icarus placed his hand upon her forehead. A white light enveloped her as Terra found herself completely refreshed.
[I told you that it would be alright] laughed Icarus as he removed his hand.
Terra was about to say something when another bright flash of light blinded her. Looking around Terra was at a lost as she didn’t see Icarus around her anywhere. Looking down, Terra could only see an empty set of clothing in the place where Icarus was standing.

Chapter 19

Icarus awoke to a gentle beating sound that seemed to vibrate all around him. Opening his eyes, Icarus found that he couldn’t see anything. Where ever he was, it was both dark and pleasantly warm. Icarus had to fight off sleep as he felt himself gently rocking back and forth. After some time, Icarus found out that he could barely move either his arms or legs. Icarus felt a soft wall that seemed to have enveloped his entire body. A familiar and pleasant aroma surrounded him as he continued to try and find out where he was. The only unpleasant feelings that Icarus had was both an extreme hunger and an even greater thirst.

[Terra] said Icarus weakly, [where are you?]

Icarus felt his entire world come to a stop as a loud muffled voice called out his name.

“Icarus, you’re awake!” came Terra’s muffled reply.

A bright light came from above Icarus that blinded him as a cool air rushed around him. Icarus received another sensation of vertigo as he felt a light pressure grip his sides that freed him from his prison. Shielding his eyes from the burning light, Icarus felt a cold as cool air rushed past him. Icarus soon found the pressure on his sides release as he fell unto a soft warm bedding.

“Are you ok?” came a loud reply from Terra.

[Not so loud,] replied Icarus, [where are you anyway?]

“Holding you of course, let me see if I can help you with the light.” replied Terra in a much more quiet voice.

Icarus soon felt the area around him cool down as the light around him dimmed. Opening his eyes, it took Icarus a few seconds for his eyes to refocus. Icarus was beyond stunned at what he saw. Stretching out in front of him was Terra’s face which was the size of a small house. Looking down, Icarus found that the soft bedding that he was leaning against was Terra’s massive hand. Fear took over Icarus’ senses as he tried to back away from the giantess before him. Sensing Icarus’ growing fear, Terra gently secured Icarus in place with her thumb as she used her other hand to rub Icarus’ back.

“Icarus you have to calm down.” said Terra softly.

[Why are you so big?] asked a panicked Icarus as he looked around.

“After you defeated the Minotaur I found your body like this buried underneath your clothing.” replied Terra.

[Am I going to be stuck like this?] asked a now worried Icarus as he looked at his hands.

“I don’t think so,” said Terra, “because you were a lot smaller than this when I first found you. I was extremely lucky to have found your unconscious body.”

[What do you mean smaller than this?] thought Icarus.

“Let’s just say that you could lay down on my thumb when I first found you, but you’ve been doubling in size every two days. If it keeps up then you’ll be back to normal in less than a week.” said Terra as she smiled down to her tiny companion.

It was at this moment that Icarus realized that he was completely naked in Terra’s hand. Terra noticed Icarus’ weak attempts to cover himself, so she retrieved a piece of cloth from her pocket to cover Icarus up with.

[How long have I been out?] asked Icarus as he pulled the cloth closer.

“You’ve been asleep now for the past five days. I would have made you some clothing, but you’ve been too small for me to even try till today.” said Terra as she thought back.

Sitting in silence for a moment, Terra was brought out of her train of thought by a barely noticeable rumbling sound. Looking down, Terra found Icarus pulling the cloth tighter to himself as another rumble came from his stomach.

“I’m sorry Icarus, I should have known that you would be famished.” replied Terra as she sat her pack next to a tree.

Looking through her pack, Terra pulled out one of her extra shirts to lay on the ground. Gently laying Icarus on top of the fabric, Terra rummaged through her sack for a couple more items. Icarus was preoccupied with looking at the now mountain sized Terra and his giant surrounding to pay attention to anything else. Icarus was brought back to reality as Terra placed a spoon in front of him. Icarus was about to ask what the spoon was for until Terra used her waterskin to fill the spoon up. Terra then placed a pinch of bread, a fresh berry, and a dried piece of meat in front of Icarus. There was enough food in front of Icarus to feed him for an entire week, but this amounted to nothing for his giant companion. Inching forward, Icarus all but dived into the spoon full of water. Icarus had never been this thirsty as he greedily gulped down mouthfuls of water from the spoon.

“Slow down before you choke yourself.” giggled Terra from above.

After quenching the largest part of his thirst, Icarus grabbed a handful of bread from the huge piece that was in front of him. Terra enjoyed watching her friend devouring the food in front of him. Terra waited for Icarus to finish before she cleaned up the leftovers. Even though Icarus was famished, he didn’t even make a dent in the food that Terra had placed in front of him.

“Satisfied?” asked Terra as she gently lifted up Icarus.

[Yes] yawned Icarus as a wave of fatigue washed over him. [Where are we going anyway?]

“We’ll be heading towards my childhood home in the mountains to see if my family knows anything about a sacred treasure location.” said Terra as she ruffled Icarus’ hair with the tip of her finger.

“But don’t worry about that, just focus on regaining your strength for now. Leave the rest up to me.”

Pulling the cloth away from Icarus, Terra pulled the top of her shirt forward revealing a valley of cleavage. Pushing her breasts apart slightly, Terra deposited Icarus in between her massive breast. Icarus would have put up a fight, but the warm and softness, combined with his overwhelming amount of fatigue left Icarus without the will to fight back. Icarus was soon drifting off to sleep as the gentle rocking motion started again.

Packing the rest of her things, Terra continued on her way towards her old home. If she was lucky, Icarus would be back to normal by the time that they would arrive. Placing one hand upon her left breast, Terra enjoyed the feeling of her tiny sleeping companion against her breasts. Until Icarus returned to normal, Terra would make sure to take care of everything that Icarus could possibly need.

“Sleep tight Icarus.” Whispered Terra as she continued on her journey.

Chapter 20

Hey guys, thanks for all of the reviews!

Icarus awoke some time later to the same soft rhythmic motion as before. Shaking his head back and forth, Icarus tried to listen to what was happening outside. By what he would tell, Terra must still have been traveling since he last woke up. Icarus realized that Terra must have been humming some sort of song as he would feel the vibrations go through him. After enjoying the soft melody for several minutes, Icarus decided that he wanted to stretch out.

[Terra,] yawned Icarus, [can you let me out?]

“No problem.” came Terra’s muffled reply.

Icarus was once again blinded as Terra’s top came down. Moments later, Icarus was rubbing his eyes as he felt an oversized cloth wrap around him. Releasing another yawn, he took in his surroundings. The trees of the forest were long gone as Terra was now traveling on a plain. A few trees were scattered around the surrounding fields, but for the most part the plain was barren. The only noteworthy feature was the river that flowed to the right of the road.

“I was starting to wonder when you’d wake up again.” said Terra as she reached into her pocket.

[What do you mean] asked Icarus as he stretched his arms upwards.

“You’ve been asleep since yesterday.” replied Terra as she transferred Icarus to her other hand.

[Oh] thought Icarus looking down.

“Don’t worry about it, besides you’re still recovering. You’ve got to let your body rest.” said Terra as she continued to search her pocket.

[What are you looking for?] asked Icarus.

“It’s a surprise, but I think I might have placed it in my pack. Let’s take a break anyway.” replied Terra as started waking to the right of the road.

Looking to the right of Terra, Icarus felt a little sorry for their pony. The poor beast seemed tired as Terra stopped at a tree around twenty feet from the river. Placing her pack on the ground, Terra retrieved Icarus’ pack from her side and gently placed Icarus on top of it. After placing a spoonful of water in front of her companion, Terra started undoing the leather straps of her armor.

[What are you doing?] asked Icarus as he brushed some water off his face.

“Since we are alone in the middle of nowhere, I was planning on taking a bath in the river.” replied Terra as she kicked off her boots.

Icarus blushed a light red as he diverted his eyes. Feeling Icarus’ unease, Terra decided to try and push it a little further. Taking off her shirt, Terra was left in only her underwear in front of her tiny companion. Bending down in front of him, Terra was only inches away as she stared down at Icarus.

“You’re welcome to join me if you want.” cooed Terra as she drew circles around Icarus. “There’s just so much room that I have to wash and an extra set of hands would be so helpful.” said Terra as she traced her finger down Icarus’ side.

Icarus was blushing scarlet red as he tried to divert his eyes. This didn’t work as Terra used her finger to tilt Icarus’ chin upwards so that their eyes met.

[Um…] thought Icarus as several emotions went through him. He was broke out of his thought as Terra started giggling.

“I’m just kidding Icarus,” giggled Terra, “besides the water is way too cold for your body at the moment.” Letting Icarus’ head go, Terra rummaged through her pack as she retrieved everything that she needed.

“I’ll start cooking us some food once I get done, but if you need anything just let me know.” said Terra as she made her way towards the river.

“If you want a better seat just ask.” replied Terra as she blew a kiss back at Icarus.

Turning the opposite direction, Icarus tightened the cloth around him as a cool breeze blew by. Terra wasn’t worried about Icarus as she made sure to constantly scan the road as she continued to bath. Being this time of year, most humans would think that the river was too cold to stay in for more than a minute, but Terra was completely content with the water. It was a little cool for her, but she had a high resistance towards both warm and cold temperatures. If it had been summer time, she would have dragged Icarus in the river with her, but his body wouldn’t be able to stand the water as it was. Even though Terra couldn’t see Icarus, she could tell that he peeked quite a couple times by the flux of emotions that Icarus went through. Terra would have teased him by touching the top of the sphere, but it had also shrunk along with Icarus. It was currently the size of a marble and the top of the sphere was solid like the rest of it. Terra figured that once Icarus returned to his original size then he would regain the use of his magic.

After several more minutes of washing herself in the river, Terra decided that it was time to get back. Walking back to the tree that she left Icarus under, Terra searched through her pot for everything that she needed. After running back to the river to fill her pot with water, Terra started making a fire. Other than pulling out the needed ingredients, Terra also pulled out Icarus’ bowl, a small sliver of soup, and something else that Icarus couldn’t see.

[I think that my bowl is a little too big for me at the moment.] thought Icarus as he watched Terra at work.

“Nah, I believe that it’ll be the perfect size.” replied Terra as she tested the temperature with her finger.

[What do you mean?] asked Icarus.

“I’m making you a bath.” said Terra while she filled the bowl with the warm water.

Making sure the bowl was secured on top of the pack, Terra smeared some of the soap along the side of the bowl. Before Icarus could react, Terra gently lifted him into the air and tore away his cloth. Lowering him into the bowl, Terra continued to cook her soup.

“Comfy?” asked Terra as she tossed in a few ingredients.

[Yeah] replied Icarus as he sunk into the bowl.

He had to admit that the warm water felt nice against his skin. The water was around his belly button, but he was kneeling down so the water was up to his shoulders. This was a new experience for him, not bathing in a bowl but bathing in warm water. Deciding that he couldn’t get out of it, Icarus grabbed a handful of soap and started to wash himself. A few minutes later Icarus was scrubbing soap through his hair as he felt the water shift.

“Need help?” asked Terra as she peered into the bowl.

[No] thought Icarus as he faced away from her.

“Aw, come on Icarus don’t be shy.” replied Terra as she lathered some soup in her hands.

Gently grabbing ahold of Icarus, Terra enjoyed his little attempts to free himself. Icarus soon found himself being barraged by Terra’s giant fingers as they started washing every part of his body. Icarus didn’t want to admit it, but he was in a minor state of bliss as Terra washed and massaged every portion of his body. He had long since given up trying to fight off Terra’s finger because each was both bigger and stronger than he was. Making sure that Icarus was thoroughly clean, Terra placed him back into the bowl to rinse himself off.

“Once you’re done, I’ll let you see your surprise.” said Terra as she placed a cloth along the side of the bowl for Icarus to climb out of.

[What is it?] asked Icarus as he dried himself off with the cloth.

“While you’ve been asleep I’ve made you this.” stated Terra as she pulled out a small handmade tunic. Placing it in front of Icarus, Terra awaited for his reply.

[Thanks] thought Icarus as he lifted it in his hands.

“I’m not much of an artist but I believe it’s better than nothing.” replied Terra.

Quickly throwing the tunic over his head, Icarus felt a lot better about being around Terra. The tunic may have been a little bit too big, but it was a hundred times better than the cloth he was using.

[This is great] thought Icarus as he gave Terra a little spin.

“I’m glad you like it.” said Terra as she continued cooking.

After both Terra and Icarus had their fill of soup, Terra quickly packed up the rest of her belongings as started strapping her leather armor back on. Placing her pack onto her back, Terra scooped Icarus into her hand as she started off towards the road. Deciding to give Icarus a better seat, Terra secured Icarus to her shoulder with a lock of her hair.

“If everything goes well then you’ll get to meet my family in a little less than a week.” said Terra as she made her way onto the road.

[Are you excited to go and see them?] asked Icarus as he scooted closer to Terra’s head.

“A little bit, I haven’t been home in a while and I have a question for my mother once we arrive.” replied Terra.

[What do you want to ask her?] asked Icarus.

“I’m not telling.” stated Terra as she ruffled Icarus’ head.

“But you’ll find out later.”

Chapter 21


The majority of the day went by without much else happening as Icarus and Terra pass from boring tree to boring tree. Icarus had long since given up trying to get information about Terra’s home out of her. Terra either didn’t want to talk about it or she would change the subject all together. The only thing that Icarus could tell was that Terra had left home around three years ago to venture throughout the world.

[Terra?] asked Icarus as he played with a stand of Terra’s hair.

“What is it?” asked Terra.

[What did you do with Visleam?] replied Icarus.

“Visleam?” asked a confused Terra looking at her friend.

[That helmet that I gave you back at the workshop.] thought Icarus looking around.

“Oh yeah, that helmet. It’s inside my pack at the moment. It stopped working once you lost consciousness and hasn’t work since. My guess would be that you either have to be your normal size or able to use your magic.” replied Terra.

[Then why haven’t you turned my magic on then?] asked Icarus.

“It’s because I can’t at the moment, not until you’ve recovered.” said Terra.

[Oh, well did you find out anything about it?] thought Icarus.

“A little bit. It’s able to predict the movement of objects and make everything in your line of sight crystal clear. But beyond that I couldn’t tell you.” Replied Terra as she kicked a stone out of the road.

[We’ll probably learn more about it later] said Icarus.

“You’re probably right.” said Terra.

Terra continued to walk down the road with Icarus on her shoulder for a couple more miles, talking about this or that. Icarus enjoyed the view that his perch gave him as Terra continued to walk. Far ahead of him, if Icarus strained his eyes, he could faintly see the tips of a mountain range. How far away it was, Icarus couldn’t guess at his size. After some time, Icarus felt a light sweat come over him as Terra continued walking. Icarus brushed it off as the heat from the sun that made him sweat, but it soon became uncomfortable. He soon found his vision become overly blurry to the point that Icarus couldn’t see his own hands. A loud ringing sound ripped through his head as he soon lost his since of balance.

[Ter…ra?] panted Icarus as he braced on hand on Terra’s shoulder to steady himself.

“What is it Icarus?” asked Terra looking over at Icarus.

Noticing the coat of sweat covering her companion’s body, Terra quickly grabbed Icarus from her shoulder. Using her other hand Terra quickly undid the knot securing Icarus.

[What’s…Happen…ing?] asked Icarus as black spots started appearing in his field of vision.

“You’re about to grow again.” replied Terra as she slipped Icarus’ tunic from his body.

[Ter…ra…]

“Don’t worry,” said Terra as she placed her index finger on Icarus’ chest, “it’ll pass soon.”

Using her finger, Terra rubbed little circles on Icarus’ chest to calm him down. Suddenly Icarus’ entire body felt as if it was on fire as the ringing sound became deafening. Though Icarus was conscious, his entire field of vision turned black. Seconds after the episode began it ended as Icarus was left panting in Terra’s hand. Slowly sitting back up, Icarus wiped the sweat from his eyes as his vision came back. Looking around, Icarus found the world around him, well still huge but a little less so. Whereas he could completely lay down in Terra’s hand earlier, his feet now dangled over the edge of her palm.

“Better?” asked Terra as she brushed some hair out of her face.

[Better,] replied Icarus as he covered himself, [can I get some clothes please.]

“Sure no problem.” said Terra as she placed Icarus on top of their pony.

After rummaging through her pack for another outfit she had made, Terra was on her way towards her home again. Icarus was once again sitting on Terra’s shoulder, this time a little more comfortable. Because of his extra size, the tremors that went through Terra with every step she took were much more bearable. Terra argued that Icarus was still far too small to ride the pony again so her should would have to surface for now. It wasn’t too bad for Icarus because he was closer to Terra, but he missed the ability to travel by himself.


Terra had made terrific progress that afternoon as she continued on her way. She had to stop a few times for the pony to get some water, but other than that they had hit no obstacles. Icarus was too busy snacking on a biscuit to notice that Terra had stopped walking.

“Do you see what I see?” asked Terra as she pointed in front of her.

Wiping some crumbs off his face, Icarus looked up to see what Terra was pointing at. Around a quarter mile in front of them was a group of individuals surrounding a wagon. Icarus couldn’t see what they were doing, but something seemed wrong.

“Let’s check it out.” said Terra as she doubled her pace.

Terra’s approach wasn’t ignored as several of the men motioned towards the girl as she came closer. Terra was only meters away when she looked at the scene in front of her. There were around twelve to fifteen men ranging from twenty to forty years in age. The road ahead was covered in large rocks making it impossible for any sort of wagon to get through.

“So, bandits huh?” said Terra as she examined the wagon.

“No, were just trying to move these boulders out of the way of our caravan?” replied one of the men closest to Terra.

“Really now, then why are there drag marks leading the boulders towards the road?” asked Terra as she casually kicked one of the smaller rocks.

“Um, well you see there’s um…” replied the same man as before.

“And why does your friend here seemed a little ruffed up?” asked Terra looking at a slightly chubby man standing beside the covered wagon.

“He fell.” said the man after a moment.

“Hmm, okay then.” replied Terra.

Icarus soon found himself being placed on a tree branch beside the road as Terra dropped her pack. Most of the men noticed Icarus for the first time as he sat on the branch above their heads.

[Be easy on them] thought Icarus as he took a bite out of his biscuit. Without warning Terra seized the first man up by his throat and lifted him up to her eye level.

“You have two options. Option one is that you guys leave, or option two is that I make you leave.” replied Terra as she looked that the struggling man. As she said this a few of the men pulled out some daggers.

“Why is it always option two.” signed Terra.

Taking a step forward, Terra surprised the first man as she kick the poor guy backwards several feet. Icarus was surprised that the next man’s head didn’t fly off as a thunderous slap sent the guy flying. Terra was surprised as the man she was holding hit her in the face. A quick head but by Terra was more than enough knock the guy out. Terra quickly tossed the unconscious body aside as she caught the fist of the guy beside her. Icarus heard a pop as Terra fractured the guy’s hand. Icarus was had quickly finished his biscuit as Terra scared the last bandit away. Icarus had the privilege to enjoy his perch a little longer as Terra effortlessly tossed the boulders blocking the road to the side.

[Did you have fun?] asked Icarus as he jumped from the branch.

“Maybe a little.” replied Terra as she placed her friend back on her shoulder.

“Are you alright?” asked Terra as she made her way over towards the last man.

“Oh yes, I can’t thank you enough.” replied the man shaking Terra’s hand furiously.

“Well, if you don’t need anything else then I’ll be back on my way.” said Terra as she put her pack back on.

“Wait a second, wait a second.” said the man walking towards Terra.

“I do have one favor to ask of you.”

“What is it?” asked Terra.

“Since we are going in the same direction I was wondering if you could escort my wagon the rest of the way to the village just up the road.” pleaded the man.

“I don’t know, we are in a hurry and I don’t even know your name.” replied Terra.

“Please you’ve got to help me. It’s only a couple hours away and I’ll pay you for your help. My names Chuck by the way.” replied Chuck pulling a pouch out of his wagon.

“Hmm, how much?” asked Terra looking at the merchant.

“Fifteen gold pieces for your trouble.” said Chuck as he pulled out some gold.

“How about twenty five gold, fifteen for me and ten for my friend Icarus here.” said Terra as she pointed towards Icarus.

[Really Terra] thought Icarus.

“Hey, we’re pretty much broke.” whispered Terra.

It didn’t take Chuck long to decide as he handed Terra the agreed sum of gold. It wouldn’t be much trouble for Terra because she was planning on staying the night at the town anyway, but the extra gold would help them get the supplies that they needed. Come to find out, Chuck was a local merchant that visited a dozen villages in the region. He made a living by buying and trading various goods throughout the region. After seeing Terra’s ring, Chuck took an interest in Icarus but a quick glare from Terra shot down that conversation. He seemed like an honest enough man, but he enjoyed talking way too much.

Night was soon upon them as they saw the lights of the village ahead of them. It was a half mile away as Icarus noticed the black smoke starting to rise. At first he passed it off as a regular fire, but after a closer look Icarus knew that something was wrong.

[Terra, something is wrong with the village.] though Icarus. As soon as Icarus told Terra this, all three of them heard screams coming from the village.

“Stay here!” shouted Terra as she handed Chuck the pony’s reigns.

Tossing her pack onto the wagon, Terra tucked Icarus in the front of her shirt as she rushed forward. Icarus was left with a bumpy ride as Terra ran towards the screams ahead of them.

Chapter 22

Hey guys, I’d like to thank everyone who has reviewed this story for their support. I’ve enjoyed the feedback that all of you have given me. But there comes a time when an author wants to know what his readers’ thinks about parts of his story. Also I’d like to know how well I’m conferring information to the readers. If you have the time could you guys answer some of these questions.
What is your most/least favorite moment in this entire story?
Who/what do you think Icarus is?
Who/what do you think Raphael is?
What abilities could each treasure have?
What is Icarus’ Sphere?
If you had one request for the story what would it be?
What theories do you guys have?
What are the two secrets that Icarus can never know?


Icarus was holding unto the top of Terra’s shirt as she ran towards the village. Even though over half his body was inside Terra’s shirt, Icarus would not loosen his death grip. Icarus watched on as people ran past Terra trying to escape the village. Terra had run past this group as she made her way towards the center of the village with her sword drawn. Several corpses could be spotted as Terra continued onward. Turning the last corner, Terra skidded to a stop as she singled out her target. In front of a burning house were four crouched figures over top of a presumably dead corpse. Turning their heads towards Terra, the group slowly rose towards her.

[Beastmen] said Icarus as the closest one let out a monstrous roar.

Terra didn’t have time to ask questions as all four figures charged towards her. She didn’t know what they were, but the fact that they used their hands to run meant that they defiantly weren’t human. As the first one sprung forward, Terra quickly disposed of it with a powerful downward swing of her sword. Pulling her sword out of the dead corpse, Terra sent her left fist into the side of the second figures head.

[To your left!] shouted Icarus.

It was too late as Terra felt a sharp pain on her left forearm as one of the figures dug its fangs into Terra’s arm. In that split second, Terra noticed that this thing had the head of a wolf, with the body of a man. Using her other hand, Terra brought her fist down upon its skull. It took Terra another hit to kill the beast as she tossed it to the ground. Terra felt the last creature collide into her as she stumbled forward. Grabbing behind her, Terra flung the monster through the closest door to her.

“What the hell are those things!” shouted Terra as the beast rushed towards Terra again.

[Beastmen, they made up a part of Gideon’s army during the war,] replied Icarus as he held onto Terra’s shirt. [They’re the product of mixing slaves and animals with dark magic!]

Terra didn’t have time to question Icarus as she thrust her sword through the beastman’s throat. Terra estimated that these beasts were at least seven and a half feet tall and weighed around four hundred pounds. Kicking the beast away, Terra didn’t have time to rest as several more howls came around them. Looking around, Terra found over a dozen more of these things emerge from around corners or through the houses.

[Terra, get out of here!] shouted Icarus looking at the beastmen as they advanced slowly.

“If I leave then more people will die!” replied Terra as she placed her back against the wall of the closest house.

Icarus was about to argue until a giant hand lifted him out of Terra’s shirt. Icarus was rushed through the air and released. A second later, Icarus landed hard on his side. Looking down, Icarus found Terra turning back around to face the advancing group.

“Stay up there till I’m done!” ordered Terra as she readied herself.

Icarus was petrified as one by one the group charged towards Terra. At first Terra was able to hold the monsters back. At least four beastmen lay slain at Terra’s feet as a few more ran from different directions. Terra’s sword was knocked from her hand as two beastmen ran into her right side. Tears started welling up in Icarus’ eyes as Terra continued to fight against the overwhelming hoard. A series of cracking sounds could be heard as every blow that Terra landed would break several bones of whichever beast she hit. Icarus could see blood trickling from Terra’s right arm as she continued fighting.

For several agonizing minutes Icarus watched on as one by one the beastmen fell by Terra’s hands. Icarus could feel the amount of pain Terra was in as she finally whittled down their numbers till only three were left. It was at this time that Icarus finally heard a cracking sound behind him. Turning around, Icarus was met with the sight of two more beastmen. Unlike the wolves Terra was fighting, these two stood only four feet tall with dark green scales. A hissing sound could be heard as the two started moving towards Icarus once again. The smaller of the two beastmen split off towards the left as the larger one continued it’s advanced.

[Help] thought Icarus as he backed away.

Turning around, Terra found Icarus standing near the edge of the roof as two creatures advanced on him. Terra was about to snatch Icarus away from the ledge until she was tackled to the ground by two of the beastmen. The third one soon joined in as Terra fought to free herself. Icarus was close to panicking as the two massive beasts advanced forward. Icarus misjudged the distance that he was from the larger of the two beastmen as it sprung forward. Icarus just saw a pair of fangs extend outwards as he dived to his right. Luck was on his side as the beastman missed Icarus completely and was soon falling from the roof. Icarus didn’t have time to think as he bolted off towards his right.

Even though Icarus ran as fast as he could, he soon found himself pinned painfully underneath a huge scaled hand. The pressure was enough so that Icarus found it impossible to breathe as he looked up into the serpent’s eyes. A second later Icarus felt a searing pain shoot through him as the monster dug its fangs deep into his right leg. Icarus soon found the pressure being released from him as another large body collided with the beastman. The pain from his leg soon expanded towards the rest of his body as every muscle in his body started to spasm. From what feeling that Icarus had left, he could tell that he was being lifted back into the air. His vision and hearing soon disappeared as he was falling into an excruciating state of consciousness.


Terra had just finished off the three remaining beastman as she felt a sharp pain in her left calf. Looking down, Terra quickly grabbed the head of the smaller creature as crushed its skull. Looking back up for Icarus, Terra found her companion pinned underneath another creature. A fit of rage went through Terra as she flung the body at the creature at the beastman. As soon as Icarus was freed from the creature’s grasps, Terra retrieved Icarus from the roof top.

The sphere in the back of her mind was emitting unbelievable amounts of pain as Icarus thrashed around in Terra’s hands. Looking for a wound, Terra found a large gash on Icarus’ right leg with a smaller exit wound on the back side. Seeing the surrounding area turning a light blue, Terra brought Icarus’ leg up to her lips. Enclosing his entire leg inside of her mouth, Terra began to gently suck away at the wound trying to extract as much of the poison as possible. After a few seconds of sucking, Terra spit out the mixture of blood and poison from her mouth as she tore off a small piece of her clothing. Tying a knot above the wound, Terra quickly placed Icarus into her chest as she took off out again.

Minutes later, Terra came to a halt in front of Chuck as she started gathering her supplies. After quickly explaining her situation to Chuck, Terra was partially relieved as chuck pulled out a small green vial from his wagon for Terra to use. It wouldn’t be enough to cure Icarus, but it should give Terra enough time. Terra was able to administer a little dose to Icarus’ wound before she carefully placed the vial in her pocket. Terra left the pony in Chuck’s care as she bolted down the road with their packs in tow. If Terra was lucky she could make it back home in time to save Icarus. Terra’s only hope was that Icarus could last the trip as she ran northward.

Chapter 23

I’ve asked my readers last chapter a series of questions about this story and I’ve enjoyed reading the replies you guys gave. I think that it would be fair for me to both answer the questions I gave and to clear up some misunderstandings.

What is your most/least favorite moment in this entire story? My least favorite part of the story would have to be how I handled Terra meeting back up with the guys that left her for dead. My favorite part of the story on the other hand would either be when Icarus first used ‘Overflow’, or when he looked back at Terra in the woods.

Who/what do you think Icarus is? That question I can’t answer at the moment but it should be cleared up later.

Who/what do you think Raphael is? I can’t straight out answer this, but I can clear up some things that might be unclear. Raphael looks identical to the Prince Exia. The only difference is that Raphael has black hair and red eyes.

What abilities could each treasure have? Not saying, but we do know that Visleam(The Helmet) can show what an object is about to do along with making everything in a room clear regardless of lighting conditions.

What is Icarus’ Sphere? No response.

If you had one request for the story what would it be? That you guys keep reading and reviewing it.

What theories do you guys have? I don’t have any because I’m the writer.

What are the two secrets that Icarus can never know? He is the son of Gideon and that he is the vessel of which Gideon will return.

Just kidding guys, but you’ll learn both of them around the same time.



Icarus felt oddly warm as he began to regain consciousness. The first thing that Icarus noticed was that his body was extremely numb. The second thing that he noticed was that despite of the numbness his right leg was throbbing. Icarus could hear muffled voices as he continued to fight off his drowsiness. Icarus could hear what the voices were saying as he refocused on the sounds around him.

“Mom seriously, I can’t eat another bite.” came Terra’s voice from Icarus’ far right.

“Come on sweetie, you’ve barely ate anything.” said a new female voice that Icarus didn’t recognize.

“I can’t eat as much as you guys, I’m just not as big as you are. Besides when are you going to let me leave this bed?” asked Terra.

“Once I’m satisfied that you’ve recovered. Now please take your medicine.” replied Terra’s mom.

“I am half giant Mom; I don’t need this medicine Icarus does. I also think that I’ve recovered enough so you can stop worrying.” replied Terra.

“I know dear, but as you said half giant. Besides, I decide when you’ve recovered. Do you know how worried I was when I found you covered in injuries and dead on your feet at my door?” asked Terra’s mom.

“Then you bring along your little friend who ends up growing while I’m treating him.” said Terra’s mother “How much bigger is he going to get anyway?”

“That’s his full size Mom.” replied Terra.

[Terra?] asked Icarus as he tried to wipe his eyes.

“Icarus you’re awake!” replied Terra.

“Don’t get up dear, I’ll take care of him.” came the voice of Terra’s mom.

Icarus was about to sit up until he felt a tip being pressed into his mouth. The liquid that was being poured out of it was bitter, but Icarus greedily gulped down the solution anyway. Opening his eyes as the object was removed from his tongue, Icarus was met with the site of the largest breasts he had ever seen. Except for when he was shrunken with Terra of course.

Looking upwards he was met with the face of quite an attractive woman. She looked like she was in her late twenties or early thirties with the same long brown hair that Terra had. The resemblance was uncanny between Terra and this woman with a few minor exceptions. The two biggest differences was that Terra’s mother had a larger bust than her daughter, and that she was easily twice as big also.

In truth, Icarus was apprehensive about this new woman as she pulled down the blankets covering him. Icarus had been around people bigger than him all his life, but none as big as this woman. Terra was the exception to this rule but at least he knew and trusted her. Icarus let out a small gasp as the woman gently lifted his right leg with her pointer and index finger. Icarus watched on as the woman unwrapped the bandages around his leg slowly. Icarus diverted his eyes upwards as the wound started to show.

Icarus was now looking up at the gigantic face of Terra’s mother as she worked. Other than the look of someone who knew what they were doing, there was a second look in her eyes. It was a look that Terra had given him on more than one occasion. She was in the middle of rewrapping his leg back up as her ring and pinky finger started moving upwards on his thigh. Icarus could have sworn that he saw her lick her lips as her fingers got closer.

“Mom, you’ve been done with that bandage for some time!” exclaimed Terra as she jumped on top of the bed.

“I was just checking my work dear.” replied Terra’s mom.

“Yeah right, you’re just trying to get more friendly with Icarus.” replied Terra as she recovered up Icarus.

It was the first time that Icarus had seen Terra since he had woken up and he had to admit that Terra was barely in better condition than he was. Terra was covered in various parts from head to toe in bandages. Icarus felt the massive bed sink in a little as Terra leaned against the pillow beside him. Terra’s mother was now standing over at a table in the corner of the room. If Icarus was a good guesser then he estimated that this woman stood between 22 to 23 feet tall.

“Icarus this would be my mother Diane, Mom this is Icarus.” said Terra as she officially introduce the two.

“It’s so nice to meet you Icarus.” replied Diane as she gently engulfed Icarus’ hand. Icarus of course responded in kind as Terra acted like a translator.

[Are you okay?] asked Icarus as he examined the arm closest to him.

“Yeah, just a few scratches but they’ll be healed in a couple days. The more important question is how are you doing?” asked Terra.

[I’ll be fine, but I think I can do something about your wounds.] replied Icarus as he pointed to one of her bandages.

“Are you sure?” asked Terra.

“Is he sure of what honey?” asked Diane as she took a seat on the bed.

“Icarus was just saying that he could take care of this.” replied Terra as she motioned towards her bandages.

“Can he now?” stated Diane as she scooted closer.

“Are you sure Icarus?” asked Terra again.

[Yeah, besides I’ll probably be stuck in this bed for a little while.] replied Icarus.

Focusing on the sphere Terra gently blew away the top. Icarus felt the familiar effects as magic started coursing through his system once again. Placing both hands upon Terra, Icarus braced himself for the impact. A faint green glow enveloped Terra as Icarus’ stamina fell. Terra was already taking off her bandages as the magic finished running its course. Diane had heard a few of the stories that her daughter had told her, but seeing it first hand was completely different.

[It’s finished.] said a slightly panting Icarus. Both Terra and Icarus could tell that his body was becoming more used to the magic as the toll it took seemed to lessen with every use.

A small growl could be heard as Icarus’ stomach reminded him that he hadn’t eaten in a while. Diane was more than happy to get something for Icarus as she made her way back towards the table. The food was delicious in Icarus’ opinion as he helped himself to seconds. Of course this didn’t even add up to a mouthful for Diane. A wave of fatigue washed over Icarus as both the food and magic took its toll.

“I think that it’s around bedtime for your friend.” replied Diane as she picked up Terra.

“Mom, I can sleep in here.” said Terra as she fought again Diane’s grasp.

“Now I couldn’t allow that, your friend needs to regain his strength for anything that might happen.” replied Diane as she winked back at Icarus.

Diane showed no sign of effort as she carried Icarus out the door of the room. Icarus had to let out a little giggle of Terra being carried around like he usually was. Icarus was indeed tired even though he had been asleep for who knows how long. Looking around, Icarus was astonished at the sheer size that this house was. If he was lucky he would be having a pleasant sleep nothing to worry about. Tomorrow he would ask Terra about any leads on the sacred treasures.

Chapter 23x

I will give a warning to the readers about this chapter. This chapter will have more mature content than any of my previous ones. This will be an ‘optional’ chapter for this story. It is written so that it will be the reader’s choice whether this actually happened to Terra and Icarus or not. Either way, for those who will read this I hope you both review and enjoy it.



It was late into the night as Terra creped through the hallways of her old home. She was currently wearing a dark blue nightgown that she had stored in her old room. Hugging her oversized pillow to her chest, Terra peaked around the corner to make sure that no one was there. Terra had waited for a couple hours after night had fallen before she made her way towards Icarus’ room. It was an awkward feeling for Terra to roam around a house that was made for people larger than she was. Rounding the last corner, Terra stopped in her tracks as the floor gave out a minor squeak. Making sure that no one was coming, Terra slowly tiptoed to the door. Reaching upwards for the handle, Terra was surprised as another hand met hers.

“Mom, what are you doing here!?” hissed Terra as she looked up at her mother.

Diane was currently surprised to see her daughter at the same doorway that she was at. By what light she had, Terra could see that Diane was wearing a tight white nightgown that shown off her curves and a ridiculous amount of cleavage. In her arms was a pillow also meaning that she had the same plan that Terra had.

“Just going to go use the bathroom.” replied Diane as she knelt down to Terra’s level.

“Liar, the bathroom is on the other side of the house.” said Terra.

“Is it?” asked Diane.

“Icarus is mine!” whispered Terra.

“Come on sweetie, he just looks so cute. It’ll just be one night.” whispered Diane.

“No, I’m sleeping with Icarus tonight!” hissed Terra.

“Remember our talk yesterday? I’m just trying to make sure that he can handle a big woman.” replied Diane.

“Get out mom, go sleep with a guy your own size. Half the men in the village would be willing.” whispered Terra as she started hitting her mother with her pillow.

“So you’re not going to share Icarus with your poor old lonely mother?” asked Diane with a pout on her face.

“No!” hissed Terra.

“Fine Terra, just knock on my door I you need any help.” said Diane as she stood to her full height.

Seeing that her daughter wasn’t going to let up, Diane slowly walked away so that her daughter could have some fun tonight. Making sure that her mother had walked around the corner, Terra proceeded to open the door above her. Slowly closing the door behind her, Terra walked up to the bed that her friend was currently sleeping upon. Pulling herself up, Terra slowly crawled until she was directly over Icarus.

Icarus started coming to from a gentle hand shaking his right shoulder. Opening his eyes, Icarus could see a massive outline looming over him. A feeling he had told him that it was Terra as he tried to sit up. He was stopped however by a hand on his chest.

[What is it Terra?] asked Icarus as he laid back.

“Icarus, do you love me?” asked Terra. This question shocked Icarus as he looked back up at Terra.

[Of course!] exclaimed Icarus blushing slightly.

“Then show me.” whispered Terra.

Bringing her face towards his, Terra locked their lips together as her tongue invaded Icarus’ mouth. Terra pushed her tongue farther in trying to taste every inch of Icarus. Icarus tried to kiss Terra back, but her massive tongue was easily overpowering both his mouth and his senses. A few seconds later Terra retracted her tongue so that Icarus could reciprocate the kiss. Releasing the kiss, Terra looked down at the dazed panting Icarus.

“Dizzy from just a kiss?” giggled Terra.

Pulling the blankets from Icarus, Terra started removing Icarus’ shirt. With a little effort she was able to remove the shirt as she snaked her fingers down to his underwear.

[Wait Terra] panted Icarus.

“What is it?” asked Terra as she stopped her advance.

[I don’t think this is going to work] replied Icarus as he grabbed ahold of his underwear.

“And why would that be?” asked a curious Terra. Icarus looked over to the right refusing to make eye contact with Terra. After a few moments of silence Icarus finally responded.

[I don’t think that it’s going to be big enough] thought Icarus. A wave of embarrassment washed through the sphere as Terra looked back at her companion. Leaning over Terra gave Icarus a kiss on the forehead.

“If I was worried about size then I wouldn’t be here.” replied Terra as she brushed Icarus’ hands away. Pulling down Icarus’ underwear Terra stared at his penis.

“This looks…” said Terra.

[Don’t stare] thought Icarus.

“So lovely!” replied Terra as she held the base of it in her hand.

Lowering her mouth downwards, Terra engulfed the entire length of Icarus’ penis. Holding onto Icarus’ left thigh and right hip to keep him in place Terra began to suck gently. Icarus placed both hands onto Terra’s head as her tongue started to dance around his quickly stiffening member. Terra quickened her pace as she felt Icarus trying to buckle his hips. An idea came to Terra as she started sucking a little harder. Focusing on the sphere in the back of her mind, Terra placed one finger upon the top thin layer. It took everything Icarus had to stop himself from exploding as a wave of pleasure went through him. Terra continued to speed up her work as Icarus wriggled underneath her.

[Terra if you keep going like that…] panted Icarus looking down at Terra.

“It’s okay,” replied Terra as she took a break, “just let it out.”

Swallowing Icarus’ member easily, Terra went at it with redoubled effort. Terra could feel Icarus on the edge, but she was going to put it farther. Placing her finger back on top of the sphere, Terra traced her finger in small quick circles. Icarus gave out the cutest moan as his entire body tensed up underneath her. Terra swallowed the hot bitter stream as Icarus came in her mouth. As soon as it was over Icarus collapsed underneath Terra exhausted. Terra continued to gently suck for a few more seconds as Icarus rode a wave of bliss.

“Did that feel good?” asked Terra looking back up at her friend.

[Very] replied a sweating Icarus.

“We’re only just beginning.” giggled Terra.

Lifting her nightgown over her head, Terra sat in front of Icarus wearing only her panties. Lowering herself onto her forearms, Terra positioned her breasts overtop of Icarus within his reach. Icarus held his hands to his chest as he stared up at Terra’s breasts.

“Go ahead, touch them.” replied Terra lowering herself slightly.

Slowly raising one hand, Icarus grasped the underside of Terra’s right breast. His heart sped up as he started to pressed his hand deeper into her. His fingers sunk into the soft warm flesh as he continued. After looking back up at Terra for approval, Icarus used his other hand to explore the bust before him.

[Their so big] whispered Icarus as he place his thumb upon Terra’s nipple. Icarus could feel it harden as Terra let out a soft moan.

“And they’re all for you.” cooed Terra. She could see Icarus’ member start to stiffen again as he played with her breasts. “You must be enjoying yourself because you’re always looking at them.” Terra could feel Icarus’s stop his actions at her comment.

[Um, that’s because…] thought Icarus as he looked away. Using her right hand, Terra moved Icarus’ face towards her as she gave him a gentle kiss.

“It’s okay as long as it’s you.” replied Terra as she pushed Icarus’ hand into her breast. “I guess you’re ready for another round.”

Before Icarus could respond, Terra leaned Icarus into a slight sitting position against the pillow. Parting her breasts, Terra easily hid his penis inside of her massive bust.

“Looks like your little pal found a new home,” said Terra looking downwards, “I can’t even see him.”

It was soft and warm in Terra’s cleavage as Icarus felt his member become even harder. Terra guided Icarus’ hands to the sides of her breasts as she coaxed him to press them together. After several seconds of trying, and failing, to press her breasts together, Terra took over. Kneading her breasts together, Terra looked into Icarus’ eyes as she continued to work. Icarus placed both hands against Terra’s breasts as they continued to massage his member. Icarus tried to maintain eye contact but the pleasure soon over road his senses. Smiling warmly, Terra started massaging the top of the sphere again as Icarus tilted his head back involuntarily. Moments later, Icarus gave out a cry of pleasure as he came once again. Icarus closed his eyes as the fatigue from cumming twice came over him.

Icarus felt himself pulled down slightly as a weight pressed against his body. Opening one eye, he found Terra tossing her last article of clothing off to the side as she straddled him. Even though she only left a part of her weight on top of Icarus, he still felt immobilized and helpless underneath her.

“Are you ready?” asked Terra as looked down at Icarus.

[I don’t think that I can] replied Icarus looking down at his flaccid penis.

“Don’t worry, I’ll fix that.” replied Terra.

Focusing back on the sphere, Terra gently prodded it as Icarus moaned underneath her. After a few more seconds of teasing the sphere, Terra could see Icarus become hard again. Grabbing it gently, she gently guided it inside of her. The soft, warm, moist inside of Terra felt incredible to Icarus as she started moving up and down.

“Let’s see if we can make it feel better?” said Terra as she clamped down on Icarus’s member.

Icarus tried to place both of his hands on top of Terra’s thighs as she moved up and down. Icarus was transfixed on Terra’s breasts as they bounced with each movement that Terra made. Icarus could hear an audible slapping sound as her huge behind would hit his thighs with every bounce. The feeling was incredible as Terra continued to speed up her movement. Icarus was close to cumming for the third time as he looked up at Terra’s face. Terra was smiling down at him, but she was nowhere near as close as he was to cumming. Feelings Icarus tighten up, Terra rose herself a little higher up. Squeezing as hard as she could, Terra slammed herself down on top of Icarus. The feeling was overwhelming for Icarus as he came again inside Terra. Terra continued to grate her hips back and forth over Icarus’ member as Icarus laid panting under her.

“Was it good?” asked Terra as she continued to move on top of Icarus.

[Yeah,] panted an exhausted Icarus, [and you?]

“I’m getting there.” replied Terra as she continued.

Deciding to help Icarus out, Terra played with the sphere just enough to make him hard again. Terra didn’t notice that with the last nudge she had uncovered the top of Icarus’ sphere. Icarus on the other hand was feeling a little upset with the fact that Terra had sent him into a state of extreme bliss three times already, but Icarus was still far from making her feel just as good. This didn’t escape from Terra’s notice as she quickened her pace.

“What’s wrong?” asked Terra. After a second of hesitation Icarus replied.

[It’s just that I want you to feel good too.]

“You don’t need to worry about that Icarus.” replied Terra as she started moving at an amazing speed.

“As long as you’re happy then I’m happy.” said Terra.

Icarus was about to cum yet again as he noticed that he had access to his magic. Placing both hands just above Terra’s vagina, Icarus felt the rest of his stamina drain as he came again. Terra on the other hand felt Icarus’ hands on her before the magic took effect.

“Oh Shit!!!” screamed Terra as her entire body seized up.

Terra erupted as tidal waves of pleasure assaulted her body. Her mind went blank as orgasm after orgasm came from her. The feeling was incredible as she came for what felt like several minutes as she experienced several earth shattering orgasms. Terra collapsed beside of Icarus as the afterglow started to set in.

[Was it good?] asked Icarus as he fell asleep.

“Very.” replied Terra as she soon followed Icarus into a slumber.

Chapter 24

“Icarus, it’s time to get up.” said Terra as she gave Icarus a gentle nudge.

Fighting off the drowsiness, Icarus raised himself up to look around the room. Terra was beside him fully dressed with a red tunic held against her with her leather armor. Diane was at the table cutting away at something that Icarus could not see. Icarus guessed that it was food because of the pleasant aroma that permeated the room. Looking down at himself Icarus found himself fully dressed in one of his dark blue tunics.

[Good morning] yawned Icarus as he stretched his arms.

“Good morning, I hope you don’t mind but I dressed you while you were asleep.” replied Terra giving Icarus an apologetic smile.

“You just wouldn’t wake up, it must have been a very tiring night for you.” said Diane as she gave Icarus a playful wink. “Anyway breakfast is ready.”

Icarus soon found himself being lifted into Terra’s arms as she jumped from the bed. The room may have been big for Terra, but from Icarus’ point of view it was massive. Walking over to the table, Icarus noticed that it was eye level with Terra. After gently placing Icarus upon the table, Terra pulled herself up to sit on her own special seat. Looking upon the table, Icarus noticed three separate plates of food set upon the table. Two plates were covered with different items, while the third was only filled halfway with the items.

[Terra?] asked Icarus as Terra joined him at the table.

“What is it?” replied Terra grabbing ahold of an oversized fork.

[I’ve been meaning to ask, but have you found any information on the sacred treasure.] thought Icarus as he grabbed a handful of biscuit.

“Yes, but this treasure will be a bit more difficult to get.” said Terra while taking a bite of some sort of sausage.

[What do you mean?]

“Mom, can you tell Icarus what you told me about the boots.” replied Terra looking over at Diane as she joined them at the table.

“No problem,” stated Diane as she leaned over to stare at Icarus, “I believe the boots you are looking for are the ones that are worn by the reigning Bastior.”

[Bastior?] asked Icarus.

“Bastior is another name for the best fighter throughout the villages.” replied Terra looking bored.

“The boots were given to the village after the war around forty years before I was born by the elves. It was a token for our efforts in the Great War.” said Diane while she started to dig in.

[So where can we find the Bastior?] asked Icarus.

As if by magic, Icarus heard a door slam somewhere throughout the house. Terra mumbled ‘her she comes’ under her breath as the door to the room flew open.

“Terra you’re home!” shouted a raven haired girl as she ducked under the doorway. Icarus thought that Diane was huge, but this new girl was at least thirty feet tall. In several loud footsteps the girl made it to the table as she grabbed ahold of Terra. Lifting Terra from her seat, the girl spun Terra in circles with her arms stretched outwards. Icarus may have been a third of Terra’s height, but Terra was a third of this girl’s height.

“I’ve missed you so much Terra.” said the girl as she gave the slightly dizzy Terra a bone crushing bear hug.

“Put your sister down Lily so that she can finish her food.” said Diane pointing at her daughters.

“But it’s been so long since big sis came home.” whined Lily as she held onto her sister.

“We were just talking about you.” grunted Terra as she tried to make room to breathe.

“What about?” asked Lily as she sat Terra back down.

Icarus was about to laugh at the situation until he looked downwards. On Lily’s feet were a set of unmistakable brown boots with gold plating.

[Calcibus!] exclaimed Icarus.

“Which makes her the reigning Bastior.” replied Terra as she continued eating.

“What are you talking about?” asked Lily sitting down.

Lily was about to start eating her food when her eyes finally rested on Icarus. The table grew quite as Icarus and Lily stared at each other for a moment. Before either Icarus or Terra could react, a giant hand shot forward and enveloped Icarus before retracting back to Lily. Icarus struggled against her grasp as Lily started to examine him. Her grip was tight enough that Icarus found it slightly harder to breathe.

“Put Icarus down!” shouted Terra standing from her seat.

“Don’t be afraid little guy.” Cooed Lily as she ruffled Icarus’ hair.

“Lily put him down.” Shouted Terra again.

“But I’m not hurting him.” whined Lily.

“Listen to your sister.” Said Diane.

Icarus let out a breath of relief as he was soon returned to Terra’s side. To satisfy Lily’s curiosity, Terra had to summarize her story up until this point. Lily was skeptical about their link and all at first, but after several tests she was satisfied. It was at this time that Icarus decided to get down to business. With Terra as a translator, Icarus began.

[I have a request Lily.] thought Icarus.

“What is it?” asked Lily staring down at the tiny figure before her.

[We need to borrow Calcibus from you.] thought Icarus.

“Hmm, no.” replied Lily.

This of course confounded Icarus because of the reason that they needed the treasure. For the next half hour Icarus tried to argue with Lily, but he was getting nowhere.

[What will it take for you to give us Calcibus?] asked Icarus. Lily took her time to respond.

“Either Terra has to let me do anything I want with her for a week,” replied Lily while staring hungrily at Terra, “or one of you has to beat me in unarmed combat.”

“And this is where the problem lies.” muttered Terra.

[What do you mean?] asked Icarus as Terra translated.

“You see,” chimed in Diane, “Lily is easily the tallest of our kind. Even though Terra and Lily share the same parents, Lily didn’t grow as Terra did.”

“It means that I’m the strongest giant around.” replied Lily puffing out her chest.

[Can you not listen to Lily for a week?] asked Icarus.

“Do you remember last night? Think of that, but lasting a lot longer, and a lot rougher.” Replied Terra.

“I’m afraid that’s your only two options.” replied Lily standing from the table. Lily was making her way towards the door when Icarus finally replied.

[Then Terra will fight you.] said Icarus.

Terra looked at Icarus surprised before translating his message. This caused Lily to burst into laughter, until she noticed that Icarus was serious. Terra had trust in Icarus, but she couldn’t see how she had a chance against a giant in a fist fight. Not to mention one that was as big as her younger sister.

“Okay then, I’ll talk to the village elders to set up a competition for the title of Bastior.” Said Lily.

“Usually one has to win three fights against opponents of my choosing, but for Terra I’ll make an exception.”

Leaving the room, Lily went off to make arrangements for the fight tomorrow while Diane went off to clean the dishes. This left Terra with Icarus alone in the room. After several moments of silence Terra couldn’t stand it anymore.

“What were you thinking Icarus!” shouted Terra.

The shouting took Icarus by surprise as he jumped. Terra was visibly upset with the plans for tomorrow as she stomped across the floor. Icarus tried to scoot further away as Terra continued to pace.

[I wanted to get Calcibus.] replied Icarus.

“And how is getting me beat up and humiliated going to help!?” shouted Terra.

[Don’t worry, I have a plan Terra.] thought Icarus.

“There is no cheating allowed Icarus. Do you know what the loser had to do to the winner of the fight?” asked Terra.

[No.] replied Icarus.

“They have to do whatever the winner wants so Lily will get her way no matter what we do.” said Terra.

[Terra do you trust me?] asked Icarus as he jumped from the bed. Terra knelt down to his level to look at her friend.

“Of course I do.” replied Terra.

[Then let me take care of it.]

Terra might not have been comfortable with the plan, but she knew that Icarus wouldn’t have her do something that was dangerous for her. Icarus refused to tell her what the plan was, but tomorrow would reveal the answer.

Terra had had enough with staying in the house so she decided to take Icarus to show him around the village. Icarus soon agreed because he was tired of staying in bed all the time. Icarus was more than able to walk by himself, but Terra insisted on carrying him because of the size of the village. After having a word with Diane and packing them an extra set of clothing, with other items, Terra took off.

Aside from using the bathroom, Icarus had not seen much of Terra’s old home. It was comparable to other houses that he had been in, but at a much larger scale. From the exquisite fireplace to the elaborate vases and paintings Icarus guessed that Diane was doing fairly well for herself. Terra had told him that like Phillip, Terra’s mother was the chief alchemist in the village. Her workshop was at the back of the house which was off limits to most people.


Icarus had to shield his eyes as Terra opened the door to her village. It was the first time that he had been in direct sunlight in over a week, but he soon adapted to it.

Terra’s village was like most other places that Terra had visited except the people here were giants. Icarus couldn’t get over the fact of how big everything in the village was. Groups of giants, all towering over Terra, walked down the cobble stone street as they went on about their business. Cobblestone didn’t quite describe the road in Icarus’ opinion because of the size of the rocks that lined the road. Most of the houses were made out of either stone or wood, or a mixture of the two. Terra started walking off towards the right as Icarus took in his surroundings.

Houses and people sped by Icarus as Terra kept walking at a, for her, quick pace. It was slightly amusing for Icarus to see Terra get pasted by other people who seemed to be walking at a normal pace. For each step that Terra took, the average giant only had to take one. They were stopped several times by various people that had known Terra growing up.

According to Terra the village’s name was Mordin. It was one of the twelve major villages that giants resided in across the realm. Because of the vast amounts of resources that giants needed to survive, very few giants ever ventured out away from their home. Mordin was surrounded on all sides by mountains just fifteen miles north from the closest roadway.

Terra had finally made it to the base of the eastern mountain when she ran into people she knew.

“Terra!” yelled Lily as she ran towards her sister. In a few steps Lily made it to Terra and was swinging her in circles. Being in Terra’s arms, Icarus was starting to get sick as he held onto her tightly.

“What are you doing here?” asked Terra once she was brought to a halt.

“Mom told me of your plans so we decided to join you.” replied Lily.

“What do you mean ‘we’?” asked Terra.

“Lily and myself of course,” replied Diane as she came up from behind, “we thought that we’d join you two.”

[Join us for what] asked Icarus.

“The plan was for me and you to go take a bath together before anybody else in the village could join us.” said Terra.

“So I decided to make it a family affair.” replied Diane.

“Let me go Lily, I can walk.” Said Terra as the group started climbing up the mountain.

“I know but this way we’ll get there faster.” Said Lily as she held Terra tighter.

“While Lily carries you, I’ll carry Icarus.” Replied Diane as she plucked Icarus out of Terra’s arms.

“Give him back!” exclaimed Terra.

“Don’t worry, I’ll be careful.” said Diane as she cupped both hands under Icarus. Using her thumb to hold Icarus in place, Diane made sure to keep her hands steady as she walked.

[It’ll be okay Terra.] thought Icarus.

“Fine.” Huffed Terra as Lily continued to carry her.

Even though Icarus claimed that he was fine, in truth he wasn’t. Diane was holding him in a way that he was facing her and couldn’t see where they were heading. Diane’s other thumb was currently exploring nearly every part of his body while her eyes were staring at him hungrily. Icarus resided to let his eyes stare at the thumb securing him because everywhere else was taken up by Diane. Diane was currently playing with his leg as Icarus wondered how Terra was doing.

Terra wasn’t fairing much better in Lily’s arms. From playing with her hair to continuously rubbing her back, Lily was enjoying herself.

“You’ve gotten bigger Terra.” said Lily.

“Stop squeezing my butt!” hissed Terra.

“But its filled out more since you’ve been gone.” Whined Lily.

“Doesn’t mean that you can feel it!” replied Terra.

“It’s not the only thing that grew.” Giggled Lily as she pressed Terra’s breasts together with her right hand.

“Stop it!” exclaimed Terra.

“But you’d let Icarus do it.” whined Lily.

“That’s not the point!” hissed Terra.

“So how was it?” asked Lily.

“What do you mean?” replied Terra looking over at her sister.

“You know, last night with Icarus?” whispered Lily.

“How did you”

“Mom.” Interrupted Lily as she pulled Terra closer. Terra shot her mother a death stare in which Diane replied by looking away.

“Come on tell me, was it good?” asked Lily. Terra grew slightly red before answering yes.

“For you or for him?” asked Lily pushing for answers.

“Both.”

“But how, his dick must be tiny compared to you. Did you use his arm or something?” asked Lily.

“I don’t want to talk about it.” replied Terra.

Begrudgingly Lily dropped the issue for now. The group continued to travel up the mountain until Diane announced their arrival. Diane was kind enough to allow Icarus to turn around.

Icarus noticed that the road they were on split into two separate paths. At the fork in the road was a pole that held two signs pointing at different directions. Like all other writing, Icarus couldn’t read what the sign read, but something told him that the right pathway was fore males while the left was for females. Icarus was expecting Diane to let him down so that he could continue to the bath, but was surprised as Diane started carrying him along with Terra and Lily down the left side. Apart of him was excited and nervous to be taking a bath with three giantesses.

Chapter 26

Icarus was amazed at the sheer size of the hot spring that the giants used as a public bath. The surrounding area of the hot spring was covered in layer of mist. It wasn’t too thick but the other side of the spring was barely visible. Fine white sand ran from the outer edges of the spring to most likely the bottom. There were a few boulders around the area, but the majority of the spring was covered in the white sand.

Icarus watched on as Diane placed him atop one of the few boulders in the area. The majority of the groups gear was placed upon an even larger bolder as the three women started taking off their boots. Icarus stood transfixed as his eyes darted from Terra to Diane to Lily and back to Terra again. Icarus’ face must have been close to the color of a tomato as the three girls finished getting undressed. Terra flashed Icarus a smile as she noticed him staring down at her. Her smile was short lived however by her sister.

“Bath time!” shouted Lily as she grabbed Terra around her waist.

Terra was quickly whisked away by Lily and sent flying into the spring. The hot water was comfortable for Terra, but she preferred to have entered the water on her own. Terra was soon brought to the other side of the spring as Lily pulled her along. Icarus gave out a silent giggle at the sight of this, but it soon died down as he realized who he was alone with.

“So are you going to just sit there or are you going to join us?” asked Diane as she looked down at Icarus. Diane was gushing with delight at the sight of the tiny blonde elf looking up at her. Diane couldn’t understand how Terra could be around this level of adorableness all the time and not devour him.

“I’ll take that as a yes.” replied Diane as she grasped Icarus around his waist. Her fingers moved with such quickness and dexterity from years of experience that Icarus found himself naked in a matter of seconds.

Sitting in the middle of Diane’s palm, Icarus faced away from her as he let his legs dangle over her hand. One hand was used for covering his nether region while his other was being hugged over his chest. Icarus could see the small waves form as Diane made her way into the hot spring. Diane surprisingly didn’t go too far in as she stopped when the water was a little above knee level. The heat of the water was apparent to Icarus as Diane’s hand lowered him downward. Icarus was slightly afraid that Diane was just going to dump him into the water like Lily did with Terra. His fear quickly dissipated as Diane lowered his feet in first to make sure that he could withstand the temperature. Icarus was soon treading water as Diane sat down in the spring with Icarus. Diane placed the now soaked Icarus upon her knee as she started lathering up her hands with soap.

“Aren’t you just a shy one.” giggled Diane as she started washing herself. Icarus tried to do the noble thing and avert his eyes but this caused Diane to giggle harder.

“It’s okay; I’ve seen you naked before so there’s nothing to be embarrassed about.” said Diane.

Icarus found his body being barraged by Diane’s fingers as she continued to wash him. A thin layering of soap had covered his body as Diane continued to press her giant digits into his back. Icarus was surprised at the fact that Diane was able to give him a massage given their size difference. Icarus was enjoying the sensation of Diane’s fingers until he was flipped back around to face her.

“My daughter has forbidden me from going all the way with you, but a little playing shouldn’t hurt.” replied Diane. Icarus soon found his member being engulfed by Diane’s index finger and thumb.

“I have to make sure that you’re washed down here too.” replied Diane as she started moving her fingers up and down.

Icarus was squirming underneath of Diane’s gaze as she continued with her gentle work. Icarus tried to slow down Diane’s fingers as he felt himself on the edge of an orgasm. Placing his hands against Diane’s fingers Icarus wasn’t surprised as this did nothing to slow down the giant. Icarus let out a grunt as he came in between Diane’s fingers. Diane continued her rhythmic motion for a few seconds longer before releasing Icarus.

“That wasn’t too bad was it?” asked Diane as she licked her fingers clean.

“Now it’s your turn to wash me!” giggled Diane staring down at the panting Icarus.

Both Diane and Lily were humming an old giant folk tune as they happily carried Terra and Icarus in their arms. Terra was currently fighting off the urge to sleep after her ‘bath’ with her sister. She tried to fight off her sister’s advances, but this did little except to tire her out even more. Lily was currently rubbing one giant hand across her behind, but Terra was just too tired to stop her. Icarus on the other hand was in a deep slumber in Diane’s hands. Diane must have done a number on her friend because Terra and Lily found the little guy passed out on the shore as Diane was finishing rinsing herself off. Terra was more than happy to dress the sleeping Icarus after making sure that he was completely dry. Icarus awoke only once before being overwhelmed by exhaustion again.

Fatigue was starting to win over as Terra nuzzled closer to her sister. If the bath showed Terra anything then it showed her that she was nowhere near ready to take on her sister tomorrow. Terra’s hardest attempts were just a game to Lily. Hopefully Icarus had a plan for tomorrows contest or else Terra would be having a very tiring week.

Chapter 27


The roar of the crowd was ever present as Terra continued to wrap her hands. Terra was a nervous wreck as her match with Lily was finally coming up next. Seeing as a single fight would be too boring, the village elders were somehow able to arrange several matches to excite the spectators. If her match with Lily wasn’t nerve wrecking enough, Icarus had yet to tell her of his plan. It must have been something to do with magic because Icarus has refused to walk or sit up since he awoke this morning. This wasn’t too much of a problem since Diane was more than happy to carry Icarus around.

At the moment Icarus was lying face down in Diane’s hand as she continued her massage. A loud roar from the crowd meant that the match was now over. Terra stood up nervously as the door opened. A worker instructed her that her match would begin in fifteen minutes.

[I guess it’s time] thought Icarus as he sat up.

As agreed, Terra looked in the back of her mind for the sphere that allowed Icarus access to his magic. Icarus shuttered as the feeling of magic ran through his body. Icarus shuttered as the feeling of magic ran through his body. Icarus didn’t know if it was going to work, but his only goal was to give Terra a fighting chance.

[Ready?] Asked Icarus as he held out his hands?

“As well as I’m ever going to be.” Replied Terra as she engulfed Icarus’ hands into her own.

Terra could feel a warm sensation start to pulse through her as Icarus’ stamina started to dwindle. This continued for a minute as the sensation continued to get hotter and hotter. It was close to becoming unpleasant before Icarus started speaking again.

[Once this is over, I might just miss your match] replied an exhausted Icarus.

“It’ll be okay.” Replied Terra as she felt Icarus start to tremble.

[Good luck] thought Icarus as the rest of his energy surged outwards to finish the spell.

Black spots swarmed his vision as the magic started taking effect. Terra was hunched over as a green light slowly started to shine around her. Icarus didn’t get to see the magic run its’ course as he fell unconscious in Diane’s hands.


Warmth started returning to Icarus’ arms and legs as he started to awaken. He felt a set of fingers gently shaking him. The smell of the palms meant that he was most likely in Diane’s hands. Icarus could have sworn she was telling him something, but everything sounded muddled to him. Shaking his head, Icarus first noticed the cheer of the crowd as his hearing started to return. The shaking grew a little stronger as Diane found that Icarus was awake.

“You’re going to miss Terra’s match.” Replied Diane as she placed her hands on the wall in front of her.

After a great effort, Icarus was finally able to fight off his drowsiness as his eyes focused on the event before him. Everything in the Giants’ village was, well gigantic. This fact did nothing to reduce the amazement that Icarus felt. Lily may have been far larger than anyone in the village, but even she seemed small as she stood in the middle of the coliseum.

She continued to parade around causing the crowd to cheer her name. Lilly seemed at in in this arena as she finally walked over to her starting area. As the crowd finally settled down, the main announcer started to introduce the challenger. Icarus could have cared less what the guy was saying. He was only interested in Terra. Straightening himself up, Icarus’ eyes was glued to the far off gateway.

[Good luck.] Thought Icarus as the bars started to rise.

Slowly bouncing from one foot to another Terra couldn’t help but smile as the crowd started to cheer as the gate finally opened. Thanks to Icarus, Terra was going to enjoy this match. It also helped that Icarus had finally woken up in time to see her fight with Lily.

Strolling forward, Terra giggled as she ducked slightly under the doorway. This wasn’t the first time that Terra had to duck to enter or exit a doorway, but it was still amusing considering that this doorway was made for giants. The crowd’s cheers intensified as they finally laid their eyes on Lily’s challenger. Lily on the other hand had to take another look as Terra walked towards her. Finally arriving in front of her, Lily was shocked that her once petite sister was looking her in the eyes. Actually Lily had to look slightly up.

“What happened?” exclaimed Lily as she checked her big sister from head to toe.

“Oh, you know just a ‘little’ growth spurt.” Replied Terra as she stood up on her tip toes and stretched.

Lily would have to estimate that the once small Terra was now standing at an even thirty five feet tall. Terra was too busy enjoying the fact that she was now bigger than her sister that she didn’t hear the bell that started the match.

Terra let out a grunt as Lily’s foot came in contact with her side. It didn’t hurt too badly, but it was still noticeable. Now alert Terra was easily able to catch Lily’s leg. Having never met a person who could withstand her kicks, Lily was caught off guard as Terra shot a hand forward. Grabbing ahold of Lily’s shirt and leg, Terra was easily able to throw her forty feet away. Lily had the wind knocked out of her as she collided with the ground.

It was true that Terra was a strong person, but growing up in a world that was twice her size had made her a lot stronger than she looked. Standing back up Lily charged head on at her sister.

Icarus watched on from Diane’s hand as the match progressed. Every time that Lily would try and initiate a grapple she ended up being tossed away by Terra. Icarus could tell that Terra was enjoying herself as she continued to fight Lily. Around the sixth time being thrown, Lily adopted a new strategy. Instead of trying to grapple Terra, Lily decided to try and slug it out.

This didn’t go as well as she had hoped. Terra was a natural born fighter from her years of living in the village. She had also built up her skills from working as a mercenary for the last few years. Lily on the other hand had never fought anyone as big as she was. She had always won her matches against opponents far smaller and weaker than herself. Needless to say, defense was not one of Lily’s strong points.

The one sided slugfest continued on for another six minutes until an uppercut from Terra sent Lily crashing against the ground. Terra stood in the center of the arena catching her breath as the announcer started counting. Terra had a few minor bruises here and there with a bloody lip, but Lily looked a complete mess. When the match was over Icarus would try and treat the two sisters with the stamina that he had remaining.

Icarus could feel a well of joy emit form his connection with Terra as she stood victorious in the center of the arena. The crowds cheer was nearly deafening for Icarus as the announcer finished the count.

[Two down and three to go] thought Icarus while covering his ears.

Terra just responded with a smile as she walked over to her sister. The crowds cheer became painfully loud as Terra helped Lily to her feet. Icarus didn’t get a chance to see the rest of the celebration as Dian carried him away. Icarus would have preferred to have stayed, but Diane could tell that the noise was getting to him. It was a semi-long journey to Terra’ locker room which gave Icarus enough time to think. Visleam and Calcibus were now in Terra possession which only left Aegis, Solidus, and harpianula left to retrieve. He’d have to talk to Terra in private about their next course of action. Another worry came to Icarus as Diane kept on walking. What were they supposed to do once they found all five treasures? According to Terra they were supposed to stop Gideon, but where and how would they stop him. Trying to relax, Icarus hoped that Terra would have an idea of what they would do next.


Hey guys, I've written another chapter but it doesn't follow what happens next. The chapter also gives away a ton of information. I need a couple of test readers to tell me if I should put this chapter in and where. Just leave a review and send me an email asap.

Chapter 28

A drop of sweat rolled down Icarus’ brow as the stress of his task started to affect him. With two thin wooden rectangles in both hands, Icarus was slowly bringing them closer together. Boredom had started to set in after Terra had decided to take a little break from their journey to do a little bit of experimenting. So here he was laying on the ground underneath the only tree in a few hundred meters in any direction. A plain resided to his south while a massive mountain range covered his north. It was only on his suggestion that he convinced Terra to take them far away from the main road for her to check out her new boots. After activating Icarus’ magic, Terra went off to have some fun. Having his magic at his disposal had led in to making a deck of thin wooden cards from a log nearby. Icarus was about to add the fifth and final layer to his house when he heard an all too familiar scream.

A second later a large figure came plummeting out of the sky landing around close to two hundred meters away from him. The force of her impact had left a small crater at her feet while also causing the surrounding area to vibrate. Icarus felt a little disheartened as he once mighty house collapsed from small quake. It was soon pushed aside by a happier feeling as he looked up to the cause of the quake. Icarus gave an involuntary jerk as Terra ran towards him covering the distance between them in a little over a second.

Standing up Icarus raised his eyes upwards looking past a set of knees above his head. Going past this his eyes followed up Terra’s body past her waist towards her shoulders and finally to her head. Icarus was willing to bet that if he could see Terra’s face then it would no doubt be smiling back at him. Crouching down Terra raised Visleam just high enough so that Icarus was able to make eye contact.

“Icarus, you’ve got to see this.” squealed Terra as she brought the helmet back over her face.

Terra was off again in a blur as Icarus tried to keep his eye on her. Icarus followed her as Terra leapt at least a hundred feet into the air and landed on a large bolder that use to be at least twice Terra’s height. Icarus covered his ears as a loud cracking sound ripped throughout the mountain range. Terra was now standing in the middle of rubble as debris was still raining down around her. Walking over to another boulder that was just a little taller than herself, Terra placed one hand upon it before taking a step back. Icarus flinched again as Terra kicked the boulder sending it flying a couple hundred meters away.

Luckily Terra had chosen an area that was devoid of life, except for a few trees here and there, to test out her new boots. Looking around Terra could see that the landscape around her was torn to pieces. Looking over past Icarus Terra could see that the main roadway was empty for several miles in either direction. Looking over at Icarus she found him bent over picking up the cards that he had been playing with. Running over to her friend Terra took off Visleam and placed it against her pack. Well not really her pack, it was just a light piece of leather that held some food and her actual pack inside of it. Terra had enjoyed her new size for the past week now, but Icarus guessed that it would come to an end soon. It was upon knowing this that Terra made a crude pack that she could just discard once she shrunk back down to normal size.

“I think that it’s around lunch time.” said Terra as she fished around inside till she found some bread and dried fruit. Very carefully Terra lifted her actual pack up and deposited it in front of Icarus. As if on cue Icarus stood up and started searching through it for something to eat.

“So, how far do you think we are from the dwarves?”

[Maybe a week out] replied Icarus as he stuffed his face full of bread.

“Come on, I could get us there in under a day.” replied Terra as she kicked her feet up and down.

[You could but I don’t think my body could handle going that fast] thought Icarus. [The boots only work for the person wearing them.] Terra only replied with a huff as she continued to eat her lunch. It wasn’t till some time later that Icarus picked up the conversation again.

[Do you need any help with your arm?] asked Icarus as he stared at Terra’s bruised forearm.

“Nah it’ll be okay by itself. Maybe I’ll let you at it once I’m small again. I’ll just keep it as a reminder to always use the helmet when I’m playing with the boots.”

This caused both Terra and Icarus, though silently, to fall into a fit of laughter. After packing up the rest of her leftovers, Terra closed off the flow of magic as she lifted Icarus up onto her shoulder. Walking back towards the road Terra spent a little bit of time tying a few strands of hair around Icarus’ waist to make sure that he didn’t fall.

Morning led to noon as noon led to evening as Terra and Icarus continued to travel westward. Winter was upon the horizon as Terra had to stop to retrieve some heavier clothing for Icarus as the temperature dropped as night approached. Cold weather didn’t affect Terra, but Icarus was a different matter. It was around nighttime when Terra had finally decided to stop for the night. Pulling Visleam over her head again, Terra felt into the back of her mind for the all too common sphere. After releasing the top covering, Terra witnessed the darkness in the surrounding area vanished leaving everything as clear as day.

With her increased size it took no time at all to set up a small camp for Icarus. Of course Icarus had to help out with the more delicate matters, but soon they had set up a tent with a small, to her, fire blazing. One of the biggest disadvantages to Terra’s new size was that she couldn’t enjoy a warm meal for fear of burning down an entire forest. Icarus had refused to cook anything for himself so that he too would eat his food cold, but it was hard to argue with someone who is ten times your size. The fun of the day had started to take effect as both Terra and Icarus found themselves feeling sleepy.

Since Terra was too big to sleep with Icarus to keep him warm she made sure that Icarus had more than enough blankets inside the tent. It was comical to see Icarus snuggling up inside a sea of blankets as he nodded off to sleep. Slowly curling herself up around the tent, Terra found herself drifting off to sleep. But tonight would become different for her as the thought of turning off Icarus’ magic had somehow slipped her mind. Terra was soon going to have a dream that wasn’t entirely her own.

Chapter 29


Warmth, it was the only thing that told him that it was time to rest. Opening his eyes the familiar site of nothing but white greeted him. Or was it her? No, for some reason he was sure that it was a him. It was quite odd that this was the only thing that he knew about himself. Slowly rolling over he took in the vast smoldering darkness that rested below him. Raising his hand up to brush some hair out of his face, he was surprise to only find a nub. Of course he would only find a nub. Looking at it closer he could just make out movement at the tip as his arm started to repair itself. Maybe in a few hours his hand would be back so that he could brush the hair out of his face.

Hopefully it would take a little longer for his body to regenerate this time so that the darkness could sleep longer. Of course once he was fully restored the darkness would awaken and consume him once again. This was the sum of his existence. The darkness would send him through unbearable agony tearing him apart only for it to stop once he was on the edge towards oblivion. Destruction, revival, destruction, revival it had happened for as long as he could remember.

How many times had he gone through this? Truthfully he couldn’t remember the first time that the darkness took him. He couldn’t remember anything but the darkness. This was his life, just him and the darkness. It was true that he was scared of the darkness, but he had grown dependent on it. The darkness was the only other thing that seemed to exist apart from himself. Since the darkness had gone to sleep again he decided to let his mind wonder as he waited for it to awaken.

Quietly drifting around, he was enjoying his last hour of warmth when something strange happened. He felt himself drop a few feet as weird sounds started reverberating around him. Having spent an eternity by himself the only sounds that he knew was his own screams as the darkness did its work. Straining harder to listen the only thing he knew was that the words seemed panicked.

Panic was something that he understood well, but what where words. How strange was it that he knew that the sounds were words when he didn’t even know the meaning of what words were? Maybe he used them before, but that was probably impossible. What was he doing? Something new was happening and here he was completely ignoring it. Another dropping sensation hit him as he tried to listen to these ‘words’.

“The body’s not yet ready!” yelled a gruff voice.

“We don’t have time !@#$%.” Replied another.

“Please, continue.” Pleaded another strained voice.

Of course he had no idea the meaning of the words these people were saying. What was people? He would have to get back to that later. Refocusing he continued to listen to this abnormality. Another drop hit him as the voices continued.

“She’s not going to make it !@#$%” said the gruff voice.

“It’s okay.” Replied the strained voice as another harder drop hit him.

“The barrier’s not holding.” Replied the second voice.

The voices started to blur as a series of drops started to hit him one after another. Was it colder around him? Suddenly the voices became clearer as he felt his body beginning to gently fall.

“I’ll hold him off for as long as possible!” yelled the second voice.

“We just need a few more minutes for the transfer to finish.” said the gruff voice.

“Help me up !@#$%, I want to see him when he wakes up.” replied the strained voice but more quite this time.

Even though the meaning of what these voices said were beyond him, he felt happy as they continued. The falling sensation intensified as it was joined with a dramatic drop in temperature. Luckily this place had no bottom as he felt himself going faster and faster. He was wondering what was going to happen next until the sensation stopped. Shooting straight up he took in large mouthfuls of air as a rhythmic beating sound started resonating somewhere in his chest. He didn’t know what it was nor did he care as he felt something warm touch both sides of his face.

“!@#$% can you hear me?” asked the quite strained voice.

Forcing his eyes opened he had to blink several times so that the picture in front of him cleared up. Staring back at him was a set of beautiful crystal blue eyes belonging to the most beautiful thing that he had ever seen. Even though it was the first time that he had seen this person, her face seemed so familiar to him. He couldn’t understand why but a great feeling of joy swept over him as he stared back at this stranger. This didn’t last long as he felt the woman’s hands leaving his face as they fell upon his lap. The woman’s head fell in his lap as the rest of her body fell limp.

“!@#$%!” yelled the gruff voice.

Looking up he found the owner of the voice leaning against something off towards his left. He watched as the man placed his hands upon the object as it flashed with a red light. Looking back down at the woman, he found himself trying to wake her by shaking her shoulders. Seeing that she was unresponsive, he tried to shake her a little harder. It was just a few seconds later that he noticed that she started to fade away right in front of him. Grabbing her hand he held on tightly hoping that the fading would stop. Looking back at the man at the podium, he found that he too was fading in front of him.

He didn’t know why, but something hot was running down his cheeks as the woman continued to fade until she disappeared completely. He sat there motionless just staring at the place that the woman had been hoping that she would return. He had felt pain an uncountable number of times, but this pain felt new to him. He was finally knocked out of his state as a burst of black flames appeared a distance in front of him as a tall figure stepped forward.

Looking back at this figure as he came closer, fear started coursing through him. He couldn’t understand why, but the smile on the man’s face seemed to intensify the fear and pain that was already inside of him. His breath hitched as tears continued to run down his face. It wasn’t until the man stopped in front of him that a new feeling came over him.

For some unknown reason the man started laughing at him with what seemed like joy in his dark red eyes. Soon the fear and pain was replaced with a terrible new feeling. Rage. Rage over took him as he continued to stare at the man who must have been responsible for taking her away. The only thing that he wanted was for this man to get as far away from here as possible. Still smiling, the man reach a hand closer to him. As soon as the man’s hand was mere inches away from him did he finally snap. The man’s smiling face was the last thing he saw before he was drifting off into darkness.



Rushing back to consciousness he found himself looking upwards at a dark cloud covered sky. It was snowing lightly around him with a gentle breeze blowing across his body. What was he doing here? Looking around him the only thing he saw was a field devoid of all life. The ground was burned everywhere and the only trees left standing where burned and broken. To his right he could see what looked like a mountain except for its right half missing. It wasn’t till he heard a strained laugh that he realized that he wasn’t alone.

Laying on the ground just a few feet away was the same man as before, or at least what was left of him. Despite his entire lower half and left side missing, the man still seemed happy. Looking at the smoldering individual in front of him, he couldn’t help but notice the joy in the man’s eye. Suddenly black flames erupted around his body as it started degrading to ash.

“Until we meet again.” Coughed the man as the black flames consumed the rest of his body till nothing but ash remained.

He didn’t know how long he stood there staring at the ashes as the snow continued to fall around him. Whether it was hours or minutes he didn’t care. It wasn’t until a warmth sensation over took him did he realize that he was falling yet again.

“Find her.” said a voice that reverberated through his being.


“Atticus come quick!” yelled a young boy as he led the aged man behind him.

Clutching his side, Atticus was having a hard time following the child as he sprinted towards the top of the hill. Atticus was near the very end of one of his favorite books when this boy had told him a ludicrous story. If this kid was pulling a prank then he would no doubt have a meeting with the youth’s parents. Finally reaching the top of the hill Atticus found a group of kids all standing around a tree. Taking a minute to catch his breath, Atticus pushed the kid aside to see whether it was true or not.

Sleeping on the ground covered in leaves and a torn cloth was a small naked child. It wasn’t till Atticus got closer did he notice that the child’s ears had a pointed tip to them. Taking off his outer cloak, he was careful not to wake up the small elf as he picked him up. Seeing that the kid was still asleep Atticus found a small envelope fall from the child’s hands. Picking it up Atticus looked inside to find a folded piece of paper and a solid gold necklace. Examining the necklace in his hands, Atticus read aloud the single word inscribed upon it.

“Icarus.”

Chapter 30


Terra quickly jerked upright with the dream she had still fresh in her mind. It took her a second to process what she had just witnessed as she tried to slow down her breathing. Taking a minute to calm herself down Terra wiped the tears from her eyes before looking around the camp. The fire had long gone out but everything else seemed like it was last night. Well except for the tent that was now laying in a heap beside her. Upon seeing this Terra quickly pulled the tent into the air with one hand while the other hand prodded the sea of blankets trying to find Icarus. Relief swept over Terra as she finally uncovered him still fast asleep. Lowering herself downward Terra began to softly nudge Icarus with one of her giant digits.

“Icarus wake up.” replied Terra softly. After a few more attempts Icarus finally sat up trying to wipe away the blurriness in his eyes. Upon closer inspection Terra found that Icarus looked terrible.

[Morning] mumbled Icarus as he let out a yawn. It was only a few seconds after this that Terra heard a light snore as Icarus had fallen asleep yet again. Rubbing his back gently with her finger Terra fought to wake Icarus up again.

“Are you okay Icarus?” asked Terra as she helped him stand up.

[Yeah, I’m just really tired] thought Icarus as he stretched his hands above his head. Checking on their connection Terra could tell that Icarus was both physically and mentally tired. It wasn’t until she noticed a visible drain on his stamina that Terra realized that Icarus’ magic was still on. Quickly going to the back of her mind Terra gently covered the top of Icarus’ sphere causing the drop in Icarus’ stamina to cease. Icarus didn’t seem to notice this as he continued to scan his surroundings until he looked back up at Terra.

[Are you okay?] asked Icarus as he placed one hand upon Terra’s finger.

“I’m fine, just had a bad dream last night.” replied Terra as she wiped the remaining tears from her face.

[What was it about?] asked Icarus as he started rubbing Terra’s finger gently. Terra was about to tell Icarus about the dream she had until she remembered Daedalus’ words. Terra decided that the best thing to do for now was to make up a simple lie. Icarus didn’t press the subject as he got up and started to walk off towards the edge of the woods to relieve himself.

By the time that Icarus got back Terra had already managed to pack their camp away and assemble a light, for her, breakfast. After finishing their food, Terra lifted Icarus up and placed him upon her shoulder as she set off down the road. A little less hour into their journey Terra felt Icarus leaning against her neck, and a few minutes later she heard a light snoring coming from her partner. Slowly unfastening the hair from around Icarus’ waist Terra gently lifted him up and placed him in her hands facing her.

Terra continued walking alternating between looking ahead and watching the sleeping Icarus. The trip had been uneventful for the past week. After leaving the giants’ territory they had yet to meet a single person traveling on the road. This was odd to Terra but she didn’t put too much thought into it. It wasn’t until a little past noon that something interesting happened.

Terra was walking along when she felt a cold sensation sweep across her body. Terra stopped in her tracks as another colder one went through her. Checking her connection Terra saw that the sphere was the same light grey that it was when Icarus was napping. She was about to pass it off until she saw her body glowing blue. Something told her to put Icarus down which in this case was a good idea as Terra saw a blinding flash of light.

Terra felt a tremendous weight on her back causing her to fall backward. Landing on her rear Terra looked behind her to find her giant leather pack, well giant. Looking around Terra found that she had finally shrunken back down to her old height. This was a little depressing for her, but it was for the best. Her food supply was running low, but with her new size it would last them a couple more weeks. Terra was brought out of her train of thought when she felt Icarus slowly awakening. Icarus continued to stand up and dust himself off. Looking around he finally made eye contact with Terra.

[You’re tiny!] exclaimed Icarus as he walked over to the still sitting Terra.

“Look who’s talking.” giggled Terra as she stood up to her full height. “It had to come to an end at some point.”

[So what are you going to do with this?] asked Icarus as he kicked the giant leather bag.

“Try to scavenge what’s left and pull it to the side of the road.” Replied Terra as she placed one hand upon the side.

It took Icarus and Terra a little over half an hour to retrieve their packs and push the leather to the side of the road. It took just a little bit of magic but after a ten minute rest that Terra forced upon him they started off on their journey again. It was a much slower pace than what they had been going, but Icarus was happy. It was growing tiresome having someone carry you everywhere you go. With his pack secured on his back Icarus was busy kicking a rock up the road. It had been a small argument, but Icarus was finally able to convince Terra to not only walk on his own but to also carry his own pack. Of course Terra had gone through it and removed everything until it had the bare necessities.

[So have you ever been in a dwarven city?] asked Icarus as he gave his rock a little kick.

“Not really. I’ve worked contracts with some dwarves to help exterminate some trolls or other monsters on several occasions, but I’ve never actually been inside their cities.” replied Terra as she too kicked a rock (more like a small boulder to Icarus).

Icarus was interested in hearing everything that Terra had to say about dwarves. Icarus had heard stories about them, but Windhook was too far away from any dwarven settlement. Icarus was full of questions and Terra was more than happy to give him the answers that he sought. It was close to evening time that Icarus felt something odd. It was the same feeling that you get when someone is staring at you. Icarus would take several glances in the surrounding area, but would never see anything out of the ordinary. He heard a stick break, but he only saw a bushy red tail of some squirrel as it darted into a bush.

Terra asked why Icarus seemed so nervous, but dismissed it on the premise that nothing in the woods could harm them. This made Icarus feel a little better as nighttime drew closer. It was a little darker than usual when Terra decided that they should set up camp. After setting up the tent and making a small fire, Terra set Icarus with the task of making a nice warm meal while she went out to collect the rest of the night’s firewood.

Icarus felt a little nervous with Terra away, but he tried to set that nervousness to the back of his mind as he focused on his task. The rest of the night went on as usual until Icarus and Terra decided to call it a night. An upside to becoming small again was that Terra could now share a tent with Icarus. With Icarus fast asleep in her arms, Terra slowly drifted off herself.

It was about a half hour later after light snores could be heard from inside the tent did something tiptoed its way through the bushes. Setting one paw in front of the other this creature made its way closer towards the tent careful not to make any noise. Once it was a few feet away from the entrance of the tent the creature drifted off towards the right until it stood right in front of two packs. After making one last check that no one was around the small creature held its breath as it stretched from head to tail. Deciding that the smaller of the two packs was probably the better option it started to reach out its hand until something hit it.

Wiping its hands against its pants until they were thoroughly clean, it continued to search through the pack until it found what it was after. After making sure that everything was the same as when it first got there, the creature shifted back as it made its way towards the woods with its tail helping it to move with the large package in its mouth. If it was lucky enough, then it would visit these two again tomorrow night.

Chapter 31


Morning had arrived a little too early in Icarus’ opinion, but that was far behind him as he traveled down the road with Terra. It had been a couple of days since Terra had shrunken back down to her original size and the city of the dwarves only a few days away. Icarus was both curious and anxious as the day went on. Tonight was going to be the night that he would confront whatever it was that was following them.

Having lived in an abusive house for the majority of his life had taught Icarus a lot of things. One of these was the ability to steal small amounts of food from the cupboard without Phillip noticing. Of course he wasn’t perfect at it which had resulted in a particularly bad beating and Phillip buying a lock for the cupboard. It was because of this that Icarus knew that someone or something had been going through his pack at nighttime stealing food out of it.

He hadn’t been completely sure until today as he had laid a small trap last night. The trap just consisted of a single hair over the opening that had been fused with his pack by magic. The broken hair proved to Icarus that something was indeed following them. Of course he mentioned nothing of this to Terra as he thought that she would act too rashly in this matter. Terra had of course noticed a change in Icarus due to their connection, but Icarus was able to play it off as being nervous of arriving at a new city.

“So what do you think?” asked Terra.

[What?] replied Icarus looking up.

“You weren’t listening were you?”

[Sorry.] Thought Icarus.

“It’s okay, I was just saying that it might be a good idea to train you on how to defend yourself.” said Terra. “I’m not saying that you can’t fight,” Terra quickly said after seeing the look on Icarus’ face, “I’m just saying that it would be good to see what you’re capable of. You might find yourself in a situation where you don’t have access to your magic and I won’t be close enough to you.”

[I know how to take care of myself.] replied Icarus as he crossed his arms and looked away. [Phillip had me go out and find ingredients for weeks at a time.]

“Did you ever meet anyone while you were out?”

[Yes.]

“Without hiding?” asked Terra.

[Yes.] Replied Icarus after a moment.

“You’re lying Icarus.” replied Terra while pointing at her head.

[Fine, I’ll take the lessons.] replied Icarus.

“Awe, don’t be like that. I promise that you’ll learn a lot from them.”

Terra went on to explain some of the very basics on how to defend one’s self from a bigger and stronger opponent, but Icarus only half listened. It was a little embarrassing for Icarus that Terra thought that he was just some helpless kid that needed constant protection. He was the one to fight off the Minotaur after all. Icarus couldn’t wait till evening to show Terra that she wasn’t the only fighter around.



[Time out] panted Icarus as he fell backwards on the ground.

“I’d say that we’ve done enough for tonight.” Replied Terra as she tossed her stick into the woods.

Despite Terra’s best efforts to be careful, Icarus could see several bruises starting to form all over his arms. Icarus was dirty, sore, and exhausted which did nothing to help his mood. Icarus tried to wipe the sweat from his eyes, but he only succeeded in making it worse. He was starting to get frustrated until he felt a cloth being pressed into his face.

“There we go.” said Terra as she wiped away the dirt and sweat away from Icarus’ face. “Are you okay?”

[Yeah] thought Icarus as he stood back up. The truth was that he was a little bit disappointed with how the entire training with Terra went.

“You were pretty good for a beginner.” said Terra as she tried to comfort Icarus. “The first practice is always the hardest.” Terra winced slightly as she saw the markings on his arms starting to turn dark. She would have to remind herself to go a lot easier on him from now on. Carefully picking Icarus up in one arm and a pot of warm water in the other Terra entered into her tent. Placing Icarus in front of her she began to take off his tunic

[I can do this by myself] thought Icarus as he held onto the bottom of his tunic.

“There’s nothing to be embarrassed about.” replied Terra as she effortlessly removed his tunic. Soon Icarus was sitting in front of Terra with nothing but his underwear on. Terra began to hum a tune as she started to gently wash Icarus’ body.

“You’re starting to gain some weight.” commented Terra.

[Oh….yeah] thought Icarus as he shifted uncomfortably. His hands went to cover his stomach as he blushed.

“I meant that you’re starting to look better.” said Terra as she ran her hand along his right side.

When she had first met Icarus he was all skin and bone. It took her a little over a week to convince Icarus that it was okay to ask for seconds. Though still skinny, Icarus no longer had that sickly thin look. Terra winced slightly as she traced her fingers lightly across the numerous scars that ran down Icarus’ back.

[Are we done?] asked Icarus as he turned to look at her.

“Well, there’s just one more place that we got to get cleaned up.” said Terra as she gave a sheepish grin.

Before Icarus could react, Terra had shot both of her hands into his underwear. After pulling Icarus onto her lap Terra made sure to rest her bust onto his shoulders. Icarus tried to pull her hands out of his underwear, but Terra was too strong.

[Terra,] panted Icarus, [what are you doing?]

“Just making sure that every part of you is clean.” Replied Terra as she began to wash Icarus’ member even faster. A mischievous grin spread across Terra’s face as an idea came to her. Looking into the back of her mind, Terra found the sphere that connected her to Icarus. Placing one finger on top of the sphere, Terra enjoyed the feeling as Icarus let out a small moan.

[Terra…don’t] pleaded Icarus as he blushed an even darker red. To his relief Terra stopped her hands from moving up and down. Looking up he found Terra looking back at him.

“Tell me that you don’t want this and I’ll stop.” replied Terra.

[Its embarrassing] thought Icarus.

“That’s not what I asked.” said Terra as she stretched out every syllable.

[I…don’t want this] thought Icarus as he lightly placed his hands on top of the bulge that was Terra’s hands in his underwear. Icarus waited patiently for Terra to remove her hand, but he felt his breath catch as he felt Terra’s mouth beside of his ear.

“You’re lying.” whispered Terra. Icarus felt goose bumps starting to rise as he realized that Terra was monitoring the connection that they shared. “And one more thing.” whispered Terra.

[What?] panted Icarus as Terra continued with her movement.

“No magic this time.”

Icarus tried to silence the moans that escaped his lips with his hands as Terra began her relentless massage on the top part of his sphere. For Terra, Icarus’ moans were more than enough for her as she continued to tease her friend. Needless to say that Icarus was in for a tiring night.

Chapter 32


Icarus awoke slowly to the muffled sound of the crackling fire right outside of their tent. Terra was sprawled out beside him taking up the majority of the room inside. Icarus stifled a grunt as he sat up. His entire body was stiff and sore from Terra’s ‘bath’ just hours earlier. Thankfully for him Terra had taken the time to dress him after he passed out. Crawling over to the opening of the tent, Icarus peered outside to look at his pack. It didn’t look like it had been messed with, but he couldn’t tell from this distance. Hopefully whatever was following them hadn’t visited them yet. The only thing that Icarus had to do was wait.

A little over an hour went by as Icarus continued to wait. Terra would occasionally mumble a few words, but other than that nothing had happened. Icarus was about to cut his losses for the night and go back to sleep until a small figure appeared along the far side of their campsite. Out of everything that could have possibly been following them for the last few days, a little red kitten was at the very bottom of Icarus’ list.

Icarus continued to watch the cat as it strolled over towards his pack. He was about to exit the tent to talk to the kitten until the figure started to morph right in front of his eyes. Where the kitten had been just seconds ago now stood a young teenage boy. The only problem was that the kid had cat ears protruding out of his messy red hair. He also had a tail that was mindlessly moving in the air. Icarus knew immediately what he was.

[Beastman] thought Icarus as he placed a hand tenderly on his thigh.

The scar that ran down his right thigh began to lightly throb as memories of his last encounter with these creatures came back to him. The pain slowly began to fade as Icarus continued to observe the boy as he rummaged through Icarus’ pack. Pulling out a small loaf of bread, the boy began to devour it. Taking one look back at Terra, Icarus left the tent as he walked over towards the boy. Icarus was able to sneak up behind the boy as he continued eating. Icarus had been in his situation before so he knew what it was like. Reaching out one hand Icarus gently placed it on the boy’s shoulder.

“Nyaa!” yelled the boy.

The boy grabbed ahold of Icarus’ wrist in a painful grip while the other hand grabbed ahold of his tunic. Icarus soon found himself sailing through the air as the boy flung him across the campsite. The boy was just a few inches taller than Icarus, but he was vastly stronger. Icarus crashed back into the ground helplessly before being pinned. The world still seemed to be spinning, but the unmistakable cold feeling of steel against his throat was unmistakable.

“Shhh.” whispered the boy. Looking up into his eyes, Icarus didn’t see the look of a predator but the look of just a frightened boy.

“ICARUS!”

The boy was suddenly yanked backwards and sent flying. Terra must have awoken just moments ago to the picture of Icarus being held at knife point. Terra was downright frightening as she stepped in front of Icarus. The boy had already landed on his feet and was baring his fangs at Terra.

[Stop] thought Icarus as he started to stand up. He staggered as his flow of magic was released.

The boy knew that he didn’t have a chance against the girl. As soon as Terra took one step forward the boy burst into a full on sprint towards the wood line. He was just a few feet away until he ran into a giant pair legs. Falling on his back the boy glared up at the giant girl in front of him.

[Terra stop!] came Icarus’ voice as Terra raised her boot above the boy’s body.

Terra was about to slam her foot downward until she was hoisted up into the air. Terra looked on as a massive root gently wrapped around her waist pulling her up in the air. She knew that this was Icarus’ doing as a chunk of Icarus’ stamina disappeared.

Seeing this opening the boy quickly got to his feet and was going to make a run for it until another root wrapped around his waist and lifted him just a few feet off the ground. Kicking and thrashing about the boy fought against the roots as Icarus came closer. The boy didn’t know what this guy was, but he seemed far more dangerous than what he first thought. He continued to stare at Icarus as he came closer.

“Icarus don’t!” yelled Terra as Icarus came within arm’s reach.

As Icarus took another step closer the boy roughly pulled him upwards with one hand and clenched his other into a fist. Before he was able to throw the punch, Icarus placed one hand on the side of his face. The boy felt the world starting to spin rapidly around him as all his strength began to leave him. Inside of his head he heard an unfamiliar voice saying only one word.

[Sleep…]




“Why don’t we just kill him and be done with it?” came the girl’s voice as the boy slowly began to awaken. A couple of seconds went by before the girl spoke again.

“He was holding a knife to your throat Icarus.”

The boy opened up his eyes to find the boy and girl from before. The boy was sitting on the ground in front of him watching the girl as she paced back and forth. The girl continued to talk while the boy just sat their quietly. She would throw an occasional glance his way as she argued with nobody about what to do with him.

This was just great. He was bound tightly to a tree with rope listening to a crazy giant having an argument with herself. After about a minute the girl must have finally came to a conclusion as she knelt down to his level.

“I’m going to make this real simple.” said Terra as she knelt down to his level.
“I’m going to ask you a few questions and depending on your answer we’ll decide what to do with you.”

He watched on as the boy rose from the ground and sat off to his left. The boy named Icarus held out his hand and placed it on his ankle. A cold sensation started to flow through his leg as the girl continued to speak.

“What is your name?” asked Terra.

“Nyarl.” replied the boy. The words that came out of his mouth came as a surprise to him. It must have been a reaction of some sorts, but he wasn’t going to answer any more questions the giant girl had. At least not truthfully.

“Why are you following us?”

“Because you guys had lots of food-nyaa and seemed like an easy target.”

Terra continued to ask Nyarl question after question. Nyarl continued to answer each and every one truthfully despite trying not to. Nyarl wondered what was happening until he looked down at the boy at his feet. He knew that the boy Icarus was using some sort of magic to make him talk.

Terra was able to learn quite a bit from Nyarl. Nyarl had been born in an old cottage on the outskirts of some town in the south. His parents had been two normal humans who made a living by growing unique herbs and spices outside of their house. They had always wanted a child and when his mother found out she was pregnant the couple was overjoyed. Unfortunately they received a shock on the night that he was born. For some unknown reason Nyarl wasn’t born as a human, but as a beastman from the old tales. His parents were frightened at first, but quickly came to love him. Even though his parents loved him so much they had kept him a secret from the rest of the village. Every time that someone would visit them, Nyarl’s mother would hide him until the visitor went away.

Nyarl had been an extremely curious kid from a young age. It was on one summer’s day three years ago that he had sneaked out of the house and followed his dad into town. It was the most amazing place that he had ever seen with hundreds of people doing their daily routine. After exploring the majority of the town in his cat form, Nyarl had decided to surprise his father at his stand. The town flew into a panic at the site of Nyarl.

Nyarl and his father were quickly apprehended by the town’s guards and sent to the gallows. His mother was soon dragged there with them as a mob of angry villagers cursed and spat upon him. Despite his parents’ pleas, the town had decided on hanging them for the practice of unholy black magic. The last thing that Nyarl remembered of that day was his father telling him to run away. He had escaped his bindings by transforming into a cat and fleeing from the town. Nyarl had spent the last three years living by himself inside of the forest stealing anything that he needed from unsuspecting travelers.

Nyarl could feel hot tears rolling down his face as he retold his story to the giant girl and boy in front of him. The girl seemed to be considering something until the boy collapsed on the ground. The cold sensation disappeared as the boy broke contact.

“Are you okay Icarus?” asked Terra as she lifted the boy in her arms. After a pause the girl continued, “Are you sure about this?” Icarus nodded weakly in her arms before falling asleep. Terra carried Icarus back into the tent before returning back to where Nyarl sat. He watched on as Terra untied his bindings and coiled the rope back up.

“Icarus has left you with two decisions. You can leave now and return to your life in this forest.” said Terra as she placed the rope back into her pack. She then pulled out some dried meat and some bread which she handed to Nyarl. “Or you can travel with us for however long that you want to. I’ll leave the decision up to you.”

Terra walked back into the tent leaving Nyarl sitting their alone. Digging into the meat first, Nyarl made his decision.

Terra heard Icarus let out a grunt as he came into the washcloth. He was panting lightly now, but a small moan would escape every now and then as Terra gently dragged her finger along the top of his sphere. Icarus may have been satisfied, but Terra wasn’t about to let him go soft on her.

“Really Icarus!” exclaimed Terra in mock anger. “I’m trying to give you a bath
and you just make a bigger mess for me to clean up.”

[It’s your fault.] panted Icarus.

“We can argue all night about whose fault this is,” said Terra as she placed Icarus on top of the blankets, “but we need to get this cleaned up.” Icarus watched on as Terra undressed slowly until she was completely naked in front of him. Icarus wanted to reach up and caress Terra’s massive chest but they were beyond his reach.

“Impressive huh?” asked Terra as she placed her hands on the sides of her breasts before pushing them together. Terra smiled as she noticed Icarus’ member twitched underneath of his underwear. “Awe, does someone wants to come out to play?” asked Terra as she slipped a finger inside of Icarus’ waistband.

Icarus tried to hold onto his underwear, but he was no match for Terra’s strength. Icarus let out a gasp as Terra poked the top of the sphere before yanking down his underwear. Terra gently enveloped both of Icarus’ hands with only her left before pinning them above his head. A smile crept across Terra’s face as Icarus tried to break his hands free of her grip.

“It’s nice to finally have some alone time.” said Terra before she forced Icarus’ jaw open as she ravaged the inside of his much smaller mouth. The only sound coming from Icarus was his muffled moans as Terra continued to playfully abuse the top of his sphere sending unbelievable waves of pleasure through him. Her other hand was currently exploring Icarus’ body feeling the muscles that covered his stomach. The thought that she had more power in her arm alone that he did in his entire body was slightly intoxicating.

[Terra…] came Icarus’ thoughts before Terra made his mind go blank again.

Icarus was slightly worried as more and more of Terra’s tongue seemed to fit its way into his mouth. Suffocation was about to become a big issue as he felt the behemoth inside of his mouth begin to tickle the back of his throat. Icarus was finally able to suck in mouthfuls of air after Terra released him from her kiss. A giggle escaped from Terra’s lips as she noticed Icarus’ hips bucking weakly into the air. Terra didn’t want the little guy to suffer now did she? Grabbing ahold of the bar of soap, Terra made especially sure to lather up her chest for Icarus.

“We still need to get lil Icarus clean.” said Terra as she rolled over on her back while placing Icarus on top of her.

Terra finally decided to give Icarus a small break as she released her hold on the sphere. Icarus was still in a daze but he was slowly coming out of it. He was able to finally take in his surroundings as the black spots disappeared from his vision.

“Like what you see?” asked Terra as she squeezed her breasts together with her forearms. “Go ahead Icarus they’re all for you.”

The valley of cleavage in front of him was both a bit daunting and sexual at the same time. Pressing his member between the massive mounds, Icarus let out a gasp at their warmth and softness. Icarus was slightly glad that he was used to being so small because Terra’s sheer size would make any normal guy feel positively tiny. Icarus began to press himself into Terra’s cleavage, enjoying the sensation immensely.

Terra just sat back and enjoyed looking at Icarus as he continued to use her chest. It tickled slightly but she enjoyed the sensation of Icarus’ hands trying to grasp ahold of her boobs, gently kneading them as he went along. Terra would have been content to just have let Icarus do it himself, but Icarus soon crossed the line.

“Hey!” exclaimed Terra as Icarus began to suck on her right nipple.

From teasing it with his tongue to gently grinding his teeth against it, Icarus was sending waves of pleasure up towards Terra. She could feel her nipple expand slowly in his mouth taking up more and more room. Her other nipple was beginning to feel lonely until Icarus reached over, which surprised Terra given the distance, and began to pinch and tease it with his left hand.

[Does it feel good?] asked Icarus as he opened one eye to look up at Terra. Icarus could feel Terra’s body tense up from time to time, but he didn’t expect Terra’s hands to wrap around his lower back.

“Does this feel good?” asked Terra as she took control of Icarus’ hips and began to pull him in and out of her cleavage.

The soap had created a sort of slide for Icarus as Terra sped up his movements. This only caused Icarus to suck on Terra’s nipple a little harder causing a moan to escape from her lips. Now Terra couldn’t be having this now could she? Her pleasure was to come later.

Icarus suddenly released his hold on Terra’s nipple and shot upwards as Terra slowly began to drag one finger along his sphere. Taking it a step further Terra proceeded to shower the sphere with kisses pausing for just a moment to give it a gentle lick. Icarus in the meantime had his hands clasped over his mouth trying to stop the moans that were escaping. Terra just smiled as she continued to pump Icarus’ midsection into her chest as he thrashed about in pleasurable bliss.

[Terra,] came Icarus’ broken thoughts as he came closer to the edge.

Terra could feel Icarus’ member begin to twitch between her breasts as a warm liquid shot out of it. Her only goal now was to see how long she could make it last. Terra continued to poke, prod, kiss, lick, tickle, and rub every part of Icarus’ sphere while continuing to give him the titjob of his life.

Everything went black for Icarus as his vision failed him. He could feel Terra’s hands pushing him into her chest even deeper. Icarus didn’t know how much time had passed until his vision finally came back to him. The top of their tent came into view along with Terra’s own moans of pleasure. Sitting up weakly, Icarus could help the fact that his body was trembling from fatigue. Terra was sitting at his feet with her hands between her legs as she looked on at him lovingly.

“Just a little more,” said Terra as she used one arm to lean completely over him, “want to help me out?”

Doubt crossed over Icarus’ face which didn’t go unnoticed by Terra. Bending over Terra placed her forehead against his as she stared into his eyes.

“Just kiss me.”

Icarus felt his lips being gently parted, but unlike last time it wasn’t aggressive what so ever. Terra gave him the opportunity to kiss her back as Icarus tried his best to explore her own mouth. A weight settled upon his chest as the blankets started to shift under him. Icarus soon found out that it was from Terra’s thrusts as she soon came to the edge. The kiss was broken as Terra planted her face into the blankets right beside Icarus’ head as her entire body tensed up as she finally came.

“I love you Icarus,” was the last thing that Icarus heard before we fell asleep once again.

Nyarl had been traveling together with Icarus and Terra for three days now. Although he was still hesitant around them, Nyarl was beginning to feel at peace. The giant girl, Terra, wouldn’t let him out of her sights, but the boy, Icarus, seemed to have some trust in him. Nyarl had stolen from many travelers in his lifetime, but this couple was different even special in their own way.

Terra had explained that she had been working as a mercenary for the last few years after leaving her village. It wasn’t until recently that she met and fell in love with Icarus. She didn’t tell Nyarl this outright, but it was obvious. If a half giant girl wasn’t weird enough, there was still the case towards Icarus. It frustrated Nyarl that Icarus just couldn’t speak on his own. The kid had claimed that he was physically able to speak, but for some reason unknown to even him the words could never leave his mouth. It was only thanks to the necklace that Terra always wore that anybody could understand him.

Terra was a little upset at first with Icarus allowing someone who nearly killed him to join their party, but not nearly as upset that he could now communicate with other people. Of course he needed access to his magic and physical contact, but this still felt wrong to her for some reason. She knew that Icarus may need to ‘talk’ to someone in case of an emergency, but this didn’t stop her from wanting Icarus all to herself.

[Can we rest for a little bit?] asked Icarus as he looked up at Terra.

Normally Terra would just pick him up in her arms and continue their journey forward, but the last couple of days had seemed rough on him. The last few nights Terra had had some weird dreams that she couldn’t understand and would wake up to find Icarus moving about. Terra had a theory that the dreams were coming from Icarus himself when she left his magic on at night.

“Alright I think that we can rest for a little bit.”

Terra quickly covered the opening in the sphere shutting off the drain to Icarus’ body. Icarus had insisted that the magic be left on, and would grow upset when Terra turned it off. Now, however, Icarus was okay with having a little bit of a rest without getting tired.

“Is Icarus tired-nyaa?” asked Nyarl while scratching the back of his ear. Even he looked worried as Icarus slumped back against the tree. Terra noticed this as well.

“That’s it, I’m keeping your magic off for a few days.”

[That’s not fair!] complained Icarus as he tried to get to his feet. A huge hand came down an pressed Icarus back against the tree he was resting on.

“You can barely stand as is. You haven’t quite been back up to one hundred percent since my fight with Lily.” Terra was crouching down at his level now. “If you keep going like this then you’re going to get hurt and that is the last thing I want for you.”

“Are you talking to Icarus-nyaa or yourself?” asked Nyarl as a mischievous grin crossed his face.

Terra turned back as she had forgotten about Nyarl’s present. Terra was about to say something until a gust of wind blew against them causing Nyarl to stiffen up. Without a word Nyarl pulled out his dagger and crouched down looking off towards the west.

“What is it?” asked Terra as she pulled out her sword. The familiar weight in her hand was comforting.

“I smell blood-nyaa and its getting stronger.”

“Find somewhere to hide with Icarus and I’ll take care of whatever it is.”

[I can help] thought Icarus as he tried to stand to his feet. He was able to make it half way up before falling back down again. Danger was close and she needed to make sure that Icarus was safe.

“You’ll just be a burden the way you are now,” replied Terra as she began to run off towards the west. She could feel how upset Icarus was right now through the sphere, but his safety was her number one priority. She wouldn’t know what to do if she allowed him to get hurt.

As Terra ran along the road, the sound of battle caught her attention. The road was sloped upwards in front of her until it rounded off to the top of a hill. If her memory served her correctly then she would come out to a grassless plain. Terra was just about at the top of the hill when a horn blasted through the area. This wasn’t just any horn that she heard, but a goblin horn.

Pressing her legs even harder Terra soon found herself looking down upon a small battlefield. Towards the left was a dwarven wagon laying on its side. The mountain ram that dwarves commonly used in place of horses lay slain upon the ground. A group of fourteen dwarves were fighting bravely against a small goblin war band. As to how a group of goblins could possibly ambush some dwarves in the middle of the day soon became clear.

Terra watched as part of a hill side off to the dwarves left broke apart revealing a tunnel. As soon as the opening to the tunnel opened another group of goblins came surging forward to enter the fray. A rumbling sound came out of the tunnel as the goblins ran to the sides to form an opening through their ranks. Stepping out into the sunlight wielding a wooden club was a mountain troll.

Terra rushed forward towards the battlefield. If she didn’t interfere then the dwarves stood no chance at winning this skirmish. Terra didn’t even bother with using her sword as she simply bulldozed her way through several goblins. Any goblin that found itself unlucky enough to be underneath of Terra’s boots were either dead or wishing that they were. Swinging her blade in a wide arc caused another four goblins to fall dead before her. Given her size and strength, nothing the goblins had could stand up to the punishment of her sword. Some goblins had tried to fight back which only ended in death. Terra’s reach was just too much for the creatures to overcome.

Terra had battled goblins before so she knew their weakness. Goblins by nature were a cowardly bunch when faced with a stronger opponent. The best way to win a battle with goblins was to take out their leader or their strongest soldiers. In this case it was the troll rushing towards her. Usually a troll was quite a challenge for Terra to fight. They stood a little over twelve feet tall and surprisingly strong for their size. It was foolish to challenge one of them in a contest of strength, but Terra currently had an advantage.

Terra grabbed ahold of the nearest goblin and threw the poor creature right at the charging troll. The force that she had thrown the goblin had caused the troll to come to a halt which gave Terra more than enough time to deliver a mighty blow to its leg. A sickening crunch could be heard as the troll fell to the ground in pain. Before the beast could attempt to get back up, Terra drove her sword through the troll’s neck, killing it instantly.

Having seen their champion defeated, the goblins began to falter. The battlefield soon turned into the slaughter as most of the remaining goblins dropped their weapons and tried to flee. It took Terra another minute to clear out the rest of the goblins that decided to stay behind. Terra figured that it was due more to stupidity than it was bravery. Terra had finished cleaning the blood off her blade and sheathing it when a familiar voice yelled in her direction.

“Now that boys is what we call a fighter!” A smile formed across Terra’s face as she turned to look down at a familiar dwarf below her.

Nyarl held Icarus down against a nearby tree as he tried to listen around him. The smell of blood had only gotten worse as Terra left them. Icarus was still trying to break Nyarl’s grip but was failing miserably. Nyarl was a lot stronger than what he looked but he could tell that something just wasn’t right with Icarus. As the seconds ticked by Nyarl could feel Icarus getting weaker and weaker.

“You have to calm down-nyaa.” said Nyarl as he contemplated just bounding Icarus to the tree with some rope. It wasn’t until Icarus began coughing that Nyarl really began to get worried.

“Are you okay?”

Despite the cool air blowing around him, Icarus was burning up from the inside. It was becoming even more difficult for him to form a coherent thought as the world around him began to spin uncontrollably. Another fit of uncontrolled coughing overtook Icarus yet again, but this one was different. It was the drops of blood coming out of the bottom of his hands that got Nyarl’s attention.

“What’s wrong-nyaa?” asked Nyarl as he took a step back. He wasn’t sure what was wrong with Icarus, but he needed Terra to come back immediately.

“Just stay right here.” Icarus was soon unconscious as Nyarl began rushing back through the woods to find Terra.


“Don’t worry lad, we got some of the best doctors around. Just look at Frodin’s face over there; it’s a medical miracle that that ugly mug ain’t killing friends and foe.”

Icarus slowly began to come around. He was lying upon a hard surface that continued to bump around underneath him. Icarus slowly began to open his eyes to find himself looking up at a cloth covered sky. A group of bearded dwarves were laughing above him as two of them continued to trade friendly blows with each other. As Icarus tried to sit up was when the dwarves finally took notice of him.

“Take it easy there kiddo. Have a drink of this.”

Icarus judged that it was the same man as before as the dwarf pressed a flask to his lips. Icarus was indeed thirsty as he took a large gulp. Almost immediately Icarus regretted this action as his throat felt like it was on fire. The dizziness that he felt got a little worse as he tried to keep the drink down.

[Terra…] The wagon that Icarus was in came to a sudden stop as Terra’s head entered into the back of the wagon.

“I’m glad to see that you’re awake.” A look of relief spread across her face as she scanned Icarus from head to toe.

“Seems like your friend here can’t hold down his liquor, just like some little girls I know.” Terra gave the dwarf a quick slap to the back of his head causing him to fall forward into the floor of the wagon. The dwarves around him began to burst into laughter.

“I can still drink you and anyone here under the table.” A smile grew across Terra’s face as the dwarf got back up in his seat.

“Can’t believe that you’d lay hands on your old friend Ulfrik.”

“I could have been a little rougher,” replied Terra.

“Not nearly as rough as you’ve been with this one here,” exclaimed Ulfrik as he pointed a finger straight at Icarus, “it’s a miracle he’s even alive. Tough little bastard.” Everyone grew quiet as they all watched Ulfrik. It was a little intimidating for Icarus as the dwarf continued to stare him in the eye with a stern expression, his finger never leaving the air.

“Not many men could survive a night with Terra on top!” This caused the dwarves around Icarus to laugh even harder than before, including Ulfrik until Terra hit him in the back of the head yet again.

“Another comment like that and the doctor will have two patients.” Terra gave the dwarves around her a stern look before smiling down at Icarus. “Try to rest, we’ll be there soon.” Icarus watched as Terra’s head left the wagon as it soon began moving again. Ulfrik soon found his way back up to his seat while nursing a rather large lump on the back of his head.

“As feisty as ever that one,” Icarus didn’t know what to do as all eyes now watched him.

“I don’t know which one of you is more nervous, the elf or the cat.” It was at this time that Icarus noticed Nyarl sitting in the corner of the wagon behind him. Nyarl was refusing to make eye contact with everyone around him, and Icarus couldn’t blame him.

“You have nothing to worry about lad, as long as you are in the company of this merry band of misfits no one will dare lay a finger on you.” Nyarl was able to relax slightly but he still kept his guard up. Upon seeing this Ulfrik came up with an idea. “How about you change into your beast form, that way nobody will me none the wiser.”

Icarus watched as Nyarl took a quick look around him before shifting back into the tiny red cat. The dwarves around Icarus quickly went back to joking and rough housing as their trip continued. Icarus was a little glad that his stomach was empty as the urge to expel everything in his stomach had hit him a couple of times. It wasn’t until an hour later that the wagon finally came to a stop. Light entered the wagon causing Icarus to momentarily wince as Terra reappeared through the entrance. Only her head and shoulders were able to fit inside of the already crowded wagon, but this was all that she needed.

“We’ve finally arrive.”

Nyarl quickly bounded his way up Terra’s arm until he came to rest on her shoulder. Icarus on the other hand had tried yet again to sit up, but his dizziness soon overtook him. Luckily Terra was there to pick him up gently. Soon Icarus was in Terra’s embrace as she stood back up. The dwarves quickly exited the wagon last with Ulfrik in the lead.

“Welcome to Sunderbor, the finest of all dwarven cities!” exclaimed Ulfrik as he raised his arms around him.

Icarus was amazed with everything around him. Currently the party was standing in the middle of a stable. There was maybe one horse and a couple of mules walking around, but the number of mountain rams was amazing. Icarus had seen numerous sheep and goats in his time at Windhook and the surrounding area, but a mountain ram deserved a category all their own. A mountain ram stood around six to seven feet with massive horns curled on either side of their heads.

Icarus watched as these massive beasts would jump ten to fifteen feet and scale the mountain side as easily as if they were walking on flat ground. A hundred or so openings could be seen throughout the mountain all leading to semi flat areas. Out of all of these openings, only six or so were still opened as the others were closed with stone doors. To Icarus’ right was the largest set of doors that he had ever seen that lead straight into the mountain itself.

“Now let’s hit up the bar before the fun begins!” This caused the dwarves around Ulfrik to cheer, but Terra soon cleared her throat to catch his attention.

“Oh, don’t think I forgot about you.” Ulfrik walked over to a bale of hay beside of him and ripped out a handful before presenting it to Terra. “You must be hungry from pulling that heavy wagon all day.” The dwarves once again burst into laughter and for once Terra actually joined in.

“Don’t worry, the doctor is probably at the bar as well as many a dwarf.”

Icarus got a chance to look around as Ulfrik lead the party towards the giant set of double doors. The clearing that they had been in was a small opening in the mountain that spread for half a mile or more. The opening was enclosed by a large dwarven made wall that had another set of giant doors. The amount of guards at both the gate entrance and the mountain entrance was staggering, and it seemed odd that no one was leaving the mountain. Once on the inside Icarus noticed that the group was walking along a gigantic corridor that went on for quite some time with numerous tunnels going every which direction. The only dwarves that Icarus saw were all heavily armored. The only thing that was different was that several different symbols could be seen on the different armor of the dwarves.

[What do the symbols on their armor mean?] asked Icarus.

“It tells others as to what clan that dwarf belongs to.”

Even Nyarl seemed interested as Terra explained that the dwarven kingdom was split up between seven major clans. Each of these clans had a leader of their own that would only answer to the King of the dwarves himself. The King was rotated out every fifty years or so as the seven leaders voted on the dwarf to take the kings place. Usually the clans kept to themselves, unless it was work and trade related, but this number of warriors from different clans wasn’t a good sign.

The group soon entered into a large room on the side of the tunnel that was filled with dwarves. Caskets of ale lined the wall on the far side. A group of a half dozen dwarves was behind the bar, completing orders of the patrons. A couple of the more sober dwarves raised their mugs towards Ulfrik and took a drink. Others would invite the party to a few drinks.

“Grab yourselves a round boys, I got some important business to attend to.” The group of dwarves disappeared into the crowd leaving Ulfrik alone with Terra’s group.

“Now where could that old dog run off to?”

Icarus was hit hard by a wave of dizziness causing him to clutch onto Terra’s shirt for support. To stop the room from spinning, Icarus closed his eyes, praying that it would stop. Terra gave Icarus a little squeeze for comfort before redoubling her efforts to find the doctor.

Icarus was awake long enough to see Ulfrik walk up to an old grey haired dwarf before blacking out completely once again.

[I’m getting tired of blacking out all the time.] Icarus could feel Terra give his hand a gentle squeeze.

“Don’t worry this illness will pass soon enough.”

Icarus had awoken moments before to find himself inside of a very cozy room. From what Icarus could see of the room it was a bit of a mess. Dwarven clothes and armor lay across the floor, dozens of different weapons were hung along the left hand wall, and finally all sorts of papers covered every table surface in this room. A single window sized opening towards Icarus’ right allowed pleasant warmth to enter the room. The warm air wasn’t the only thing that came from the window as the sound of a waterfall could clearly be heard.

“It seems the little tike has woken up Doc.” Ulfrik sat in a corner whittling away at a block of wood. The dwarf met Icarus’ stare for a second before getting back to work.

“Apparently so, thank you Master Ulfrik.” The older dwarf, simply called Doc, quickly wheeled over a cart full of different plants, rocks, and liquids.

Icarus was a little hesitant with being touched by a stranger, but Terra told him that there was nothing to worry about. After another minute of examining him, Doc shoved a bitter purple plant inside of Icarus’ mouth quickly followed by some red dust.

“Chew on this for a few minutes then swallow it.”

It was a fight not to both spit out the weed and throw up, but Icarus knew that there was a reason behind this madness.

[What is wrong with me?] Terra was kind enough to relay the question to the doctor. The old dwarf thought the question over for a second to find the best way to answer it.

“This is only my hypothesis from what all Terra has told me, but what is affecting you right now is mainly caused by three main factors.”

Icarus’ first problem was that his immune system was exceedingly weak. It was weaker than most children that looked Icarus’ age. Terra didn’t correct the doctor saying that Icarus was in his twenties by her best guess. The second problem was that both giants and dwarves have highly resistant bodies that can easily fight off all but the most powerful of viruses. Icarus had contracted a giant sized flu from his time in Terra’s home village. This powerful virus combined with Icarus’ weak immune system only spelled disaster.

The third problem had hit both Icarus and Terra the hardest of all. When Icarus used his magic there was a drain in his stamina depending on what he was trying to accomplish. It was amazing that Icarus was able to perform such amazing feats of magic that most elven adult would have trouble doing. To put it simply, Icarus was a magical prodigy. The problem was that while Icarus was extremely skilled in the use of magic, his ‘magical stamina’ was below that of what an average elf would be. The physical drain from using so much magic also caused Icarus to weaken in other ways such as his immune system. Icarus would make a full recovery in no time, but they had to be careful when they used his magic so that he doesn’t catch something even more deadly next time.

Ulfrik offered the older dwarf a few coins for his troubles but Doc kindly refused. He used the term Master yet again, but unlike Icarus Doc wasn’t a slave. Icarus was a little too restless to ponder on the subject for long as he noticed Terra stand up.

[Where are you going?] Terra paused for a second to unlock Icarus’ magic.

“I have to go with Ulfrik for a little bit but I’ll be back. Just stay here and regain your strength.”

Terra gave Icarus a light kiss on the forehead before heading out. Icarus was feeling a little a lonely until a familiar voice spoke up beside of him.

“Wanna go exploring nyaa?” Nyarl was leaning up beside the bed in his human form. Icarus held onto Nyarl’s tail as he allowed his magic to flow.

[Terra said to stay here.]

“Are you truly willing to wait here when we could be out exploring?” It was true that Icarus was a little bored at the moment.

[Won’t we get lost in the crowds?]

“You’ve been asleep all day and it is the middle of the night-nyaa.”

Icarus didn’t want to go against Terra’s wishes, but he really wanted to explore the city of the dwarves just a little bit. Getting up slowly, Icarus was glad that the dizziness had gone away. He was feeling a little weak, but this he could go through. Nyarl was already standing over at the window as Icarus joined him.

“It’s amazing-nyaa.”

Icarus was glad that he was at a dwarven place because everything was built for people of dwarven height. The ceilings were no problem for Terra at all, but everything was a little bit lower than what they should normally have been. This allowed Icarus to look out the window without any difficulty.

Ulfrik’s window looked out into a massive underground cavern. Lanterns filled with Saphirite lined the walls giving light to the room. Below Icarus was a dark lake of water that seemed to empty out into a tunnel that Icarus couldn’t quite see. Beyond the lake was a large stone platform with a large bridge on either side that led into the mountain. The stone must have been brought into the cavern somehow because the white material seemed unnatural compared to the dark grey that surrounded the cavern.

In the middle of the platform was a large stone throne adorn with gold and precious jewels. Behind the throne was a pathway that leads into a single tunnel in the back of the cavern. Above this tunnel was a stone structure that split the water falling on it so that the pathway remained dry. It wasn’t the mighty throne, nor the master stonework that could be described as the most beautiful thing in this cavern. It was the mighty waterfall that fell from one end of the cavern to the other.

“I wonder how it works?” Icarus began massaging his head because of a sudden headache as he began to answer the question.

[The water from this lake flows underground back towards the throne,] Icarus pointed forward to make his point. [There is another much larger lake underneath this one that sits right underneath of the great dwarven forges and a tunnel heated by molted rock. The heat from these two sources boil the water that then evaporates into small cracks into a much cooler chamber. From there the steam turns back into water which eventually makes its way back down that waterfall into the lake below. Of course Ariel was so fascinated by it that she ordered the best elven architects to make a duplicate of this waterfall back home.]

“How do you know so,” Nyarl stopped half way through his sentence as he looked upon Icarus, “much?”

[I don’t know,] Icarus finally noticed the warm tears that were flowing down his face.

“Are you okay-nyaa?”

[I’m fine, must be the flu or something.] Icarus quickly wiped away the tears not knowing what had just happened.

The two of them quietly made their way out of Ulfrik’s room into the tunnels. It was almost completely empty except for a random dwarf walking the halls for only god knows what reasons. Needless to say that nobody stopped to ask questions as the two continued to walk. In truth the two had no idea where they were going, but their goal was to make it to the throne room. Icarus didn’t know why, but for some reason he knew that they were on the right track.

“Hold up a second,” Nyarl quickly grabbed ahold of Icarus and pinned him to a small opening in the wall. Nyarl quickly covered Icarus’ mouth as a group of two dozen guards walked pass them. Nyarl waited a few seconds for the guards to pass before sticking his head out to check the passageway.

“Must be changing out with the night guard,” whispered Nyarl.

[You can let go of my mouth, I couldn’t talk even if I wanted to.] A hint of amusement could be heard in Icarus’ thought at the uselessness of Nyarl’s act. He was the last person to let out a peep.

“Sorry about that, old habits I guess.”

Nyarl would have been content with walking around aimlessly, but Icarus seemed to know where to go. A few minutes and a couple of turns later the two found themselves standing upon the very bridge that they had looked on just a moment ago. Icarus could make out the window of Ulfrik’s room from where they stood. Terra should be back soon and neither one of them wanted to see her angry.

[Let’s get this over with,] Icarus was the first one to make it to the throne. He was content with just looking at it, but Nyarl wasn’t that kind of person.

“Looks like I’m King under the moew-tain.” Nyarl struck his most regal pose as he sat down on the thrown. Icarus couldn’t help but laugh, silently, at the stupidity of the joke.

[Curiosity killed the cat]

“What was that Icarus-nyaa, I couldn’t hear nyaa. Cat got your tongue?”

[If you don’t get out of that chair then we’re going to have a ‘cat’astrophe. ]

The two called it a draw with the cat puns for now. They had only one more thing to explore before making it back to Ulfrik’s room. Icarus and Nyarl walked the path towards the back of the cavern, taking a second to admire the massive waterfall up close. The tunnel had extended another thirty feet pass the waterfall where it came up to a very simple set of double doors. In front of the doors was a very thin gold line that ran along the walls and ceiling to make a golden loop. The purpose of this line was a mystery to the duo until Nyarl tried to cross it.

“A little help-nyaa?” asked Nyarl as he fought against some sort of invisible barrier. Icarus tried to push Nyarl through but their combined strength could do nothing to advance Nyarl further. After a full minute the two had given up on getting through.

“Must be some sort of magic?” Nyarl was scratching the back of his ear as he pondered the puzzle before him.

[Don’t look at me, I don’t know what it is,] Icarus was as puzzled about the golden line and barrier as much as Nyarl was. Icarus was a little too busy looking at the golden line that he didn’t notice Nyarl come up behind him before it was too late. With a quick shove Icarus stumbled over the line and ran into the double doors.

“Looks like one of us can cross this line-nyaa. Go ahead and check it out.”

Icarus took one last look back at Nyarl before opening the double doors. Whatever was behind this, Icarus was about to find out.

Behind the mysterious double doors was a set of stairs that led upwards into a large chamber. In the center of the chamber was an extremely large map of the dwarven kingdom. Little figures of different colors were set throughout representing either dwarven or goblin forces. This was the most detailed war map that Icarus had ever seen. Of course he was pretty sure that he had never seen a war map before anyways. After taking a few last glances at it, Icarus moved on to another part of the chamber.

To his right was a set of tables covered in all sorts of trinkets, scrolls, weapons, and armor. Behind the tables was a massive bookcase that ran through the entire length of the wall with a ladder on wheels stationed towards the right side. Directly in front of him was another set of steps that must lead into another room farther into the mountain. Towards Icarus’ left was the thing that caught his attention the most. A series of long thin rock slabs formed four rows along the left hand wall.

Walking up to it Icarus found a set of dwarven runes across the top. Icarus didn’t know how to read, but the meaning of the text became clear to him. This was the wall that showed every dwarf to have earned the title of Master. A slight pain went through Icarus’ head as he remembered what a ‘Master Dwarf’ was. Any dwarf that had contributed greatly towards dwarven society, and had been approved by the dwarven council, was bestowed the title of Master. It was the highest award that any dwarf could ever hope of achieving.

Portraits ran along each slab of stone with blocks of dwarven texts that described what they had done. All sorts of feats and achievements came to Icarus as he glanced from one picture to the rest. Whether it was from designing complex tunnel systems to being the general of the dwarven army, each and every dwarf had earned their place upon the wall. Icarus was about to turn back and explore some more until a slightly familiar face popped out at him.

[Ulfrik…]

The dwarf was wearing a full suite of dwarven armor with a red ram emblem engraved into the breastplate. A massive hammer was lying straight up on the ground with Ulfrik’s hands on top of the handle. Ulfrik himself had a fierce look in his eye that Icarus couldn’t believe the real Ulfrik making. In truth Icarus was slightly intimidated by the picture. Icarus was curious to see how exactly Ulfrik had earned his title, but a chill ran down Icarus’ spine as another image caught his attention just a few portraits down. Dashing over Icarus found himself in front of an old, but familiar face.

[What is Exia doing here?] Asked Icarus as he looked at the elven prince.

The Elven Prince was leaning back against the wall with a cocky grin across his face. Icarus was a little jealous of how the prince looked in this picture. Handsome, proud, confident; everything that Icarus wasn’t and would probably never be. The last time that he had seen this face had been when he first met Raphael. Whatever that thing was scared Icarus to the core. The resemblance to the Prince was unnatural, just black hair and red eyes separated the two elves. Icarus was soon brought back to reality as a figure soon joined him.

“It is not every day that an elf enters into my private chamber to look upon the faces of the past.”

Icarus jumped as he turned to find an older dwarf standing beside of him wearing a very fine sleeping gown. The older dwarf was looking at the picture of the elven prince, remembering a scene from long ago.

“Of course I could see how this one in particular could interest you. An elf earning the title of ‘Master’” The dwarf gave out a little chuckle as an old, but strong hand began to lead Icarus away from the wall. Icarus wanted nothing more than to explain himself, but without Terra there it was impossible. He could use magic of course, but he didn’t want to use it on someone he didn’t know. Icarus soon found himself being led down the stairs back towards the throne room. Nyarl was nowhere to be found as the two stopped once more at the golden line. The old dwarf looked down at Icarus; a look of curiosity could plainly be seen on his face.

There are usually two measures that stop most dwarves from entering into his chambers. The first one is the guards that are usually stationed outside of the doors. Of course with the war going on it the dwarves can’t spare a few soldiers to guard a place deep inside the mountain. The second was this golden line before them, gift from some elves that had visited them a couple hundred years ago. The golden line would only allow dwarves that had reached adulthood pass through. This would keep the other younger dwarves from interrupting important meetings and whatnot. With a gentle push, Icarus found himself stumbling slightly across the line.

“Try not to wander around too much and let those old bones gather some rest.” The older dwarf turned on his heels and began to make his way back up the stairs. Icarus was still a little puzzled by what he meant by his old bones, but he just accounted it to some old dwarven saying.

“So what was up there nyaa?” The red haired kid reappeared as soon as the older dwarf had left. Icarus grabbed ahold of Nyarl’s tail as he let the magic run through him.

[Just a private chamber with a map, some books, and…other stuff,] The last part about the wall of masters Icarus decided to leave out. He wished that he had looked at the text below the picture.

“We better get back before Terra-nyaa arrives.”

Icarus couldn’t agree more as he quickly made his way back through the corridors. Thanks to Nyarl’s acute senses the two were able to make it back to Ulfrik’s room without bumping into any dwarves. Icarus hadn’t been back inside of the sheets a few minute when the door to the room opened and Terra walked back in. A smile grew across her face as she saw her little friend lying in bed, but Icarus could see the just how tired she was.

“You didn’t have to wait up for me.” Terra quickly severed Icarus’ flow of magic so that he could regain his strength faster. A moment later Ulfrik came back in with a pile of blankets and pillows taller than himself.

“Try to catch a couple of hours of sleep lass; tomorrow’s going to be a long day.”

Ulfrik and Terra talked about other things for a couple of minutes before Ulfrik left. Nyarl had found himself a place on top of a shelf in his cat form, and was currently dozing off. Terra had made herself a semi-comfortable bedding on the floor right next to Icarus’ bed. She gave Icarus a smile as she began getting undressed for the evening. Today’s events had taken its toll on her as well as she slipped into her make shift bed. She wasn’t alone for lone as she felt Icarus’ small form lay down beside of her.

“Was the bed uncomfortable?” Terra gently grabbed ahold of Icarus and brought him into her embrace. With just one arm around his chest, Icarus was now stuck in place.

[I just didn’t want to sleep alone tonight…] Icarus buried his face into the blankets as his face reddened a little. The large arm around him gave him a gentle squeeze as Terra signed.

“Me neither little one,” the two soon fell asleep in each other’s embrace. Together they would face whatever the next day had in store for them.

Icarus walked behind of Terra and Ulfrik as the group made its way towards some dwarven training grounds. The temperature was a little warmer than the rest of the tunnel, but that had to do with the layout of the mountain. Terra was giving Ulfrik her full attention as he explained the area.

The training grounds were a large chamber located outside of the great dwarven forges. It was the perfect location to store weapons and close enough to take any broken equipment back to the forges to get repaired. Right above both the training grounds and the forge was the community bath house. A very specialized set of pumps were used to fill that portion of the cave with water from the underground lake. The forges help to keep this water a warm and comfortable temperature. Once a week the dwarves would empty the chamber and fill it back up with fresher water.

“And then the dwarf asked ‘where is my drink?’”

Both Terra and Nyarl began laughing at Ulfrik’s joke that Icarus didn’t quite understand. If Icarus would have been paying attention since the beginning of the joke he would have probably laughed, but the amount of attention that Terra was giving to Ulfrik was a little bit upsetting to Icarus. Icarus just couldn’t help but feel a little jealous.

“Oi lad,” Icarus found himself brought back from his train of thought by Ulfrik snapping his fingers in his face. “So Terra says that she has been training you how to fight.” Icarus quickly shook his head in agreement.

“Well, we’ll just see how good of a job she has done.” Ulfrik pushed open a set of double doors revealing a massive chamber.

The sound and smell were slightly overwhelming to Icarus, causing him to take a step back at first. A couple hundred dwarves were currently practicing all sorts of different battle drills. Some were having one on one fight, while others were training in how to fight in formations. Along the walls were smaller opening that featured places to grab a quick bite between practice sessions, a few medical tents for accidents, and more than enough mini bars for drinks. Along the left hand wall were giant openings that apparently led to the dwarven forges. Icarus could see a few humans amongst the dwarves near the opening, apprentices no doubt.

“So what would be their weapons of choice?” Asked Ulfrik as the group made its way towards an equipment booth.

“I’ve been training Icarus on how to use a sword while Nyarl would probably do better with a couple of daggers.” answered Terra as she pushed the two boys forward.

“You heard the lady Frank.”

The dwarf behind the counter was even more heavily scarred than Ulfrik. He had dark black hair with bits of grey throughout. Icarus was afraid that they would be practicing with actual weapon, but felt relieved as he handed Nyarl a set of dark wooded daggers. For Icarus however he seemed a little worried.

“Are you sure he can handle a regular sword? He’s a little on the small side.” Franks comment seemed to offend Icarus a little. He was a little over a foot shorter than most dwarves, but the thought that he couldn’t wield a dwarven sword kind of hurt his ego.

[Just tell him to give me a regular one,] huffed Icarus as he waited for Terra to translate. Terra shifted uneasily beside him as she thought of the best way to explain things.

“He’s been training with me for a few nights so he’s use to the length at least.”

“Aye, the length isn’t the problem but the weight might be.” replied Frank as he looked up at Terra.

“Just let him try it out for a few swings and if we have to we’ll get something smaller for the lad.” Both Terra and Frank thought that Ulfrik’s proposition was fair enough. Ulfrik gladly accepted the wooden sword from Frank and held it out to Icarus. “I’m sure he can handle it.”

Icarus nearly dropped the sword as soon as it was handed to him. It wasn’t any normal type of wood that this practice sword was made out of. Icarus was instructed to hold the sword out and point it towards Ulfrik. Despite his best efforts the end of the blade shook a little from his efforts. Ulfrik simply placed a single finger on the edge of it and pushed it further to the ground against Icarus’ will.

“Let’s try something smaller for the kid, maybe a short sword.”

Terra could feel the embarrassment that Icarus felt through the connection they shared. It took Icarus both hands to wield it properly, but given his size Ulfrik thought that it suited him well. Ulfrik decided to use a sword and shield for today’s little practice session. Terra asked if Nyarl could go first so that she could have a word with Icarus. The two soon entered the circle and began their mock fight.

“Are you okay?” asked Terra in a low enough voice so that only Icarus could hear her.

[I’m fine,] Icarus was still a little red in the face.

“It’s not your fault Icarus, dwarven weapons weigh twice as much as regular ones.”

[I said I’m fine,] Icarus’ mood wasn’t getting any better and Terra could feel it. He himself could come up with half a dozen excuses, but the fact of the matter was that he was nowhere near as strong as he would like to be. It was understandable that both Terra and Ulfrik were able to wield such weapons and if he wanted to be truthful, Nyarl could do it as well. He was probably the weakest individual in the entire mountain and he kept getting reminded of that since he got there.

“I just want you to be happy Icarus. How about we have some one on one time later to try and relax a bit.” Terra was glad to see Icarus finally crack a little smile.

[That sounds good,] he was still a little upset but at least he had Terra. The thought of having all of her attention without Ulfrik there really made him feel a little better.

The fight between Nyarl and Ulfrik was indeed an amazing sight to behold. A few dwarves from the surrounding area had come over to see the two of them. Nyarl was doing pretty good in Icarus’ opinion. He obviously had the speed advantage as even Ulfrik had trouble keeping up with his movements. Nyarl was able to close the distance between the two before unleashing several attacks of his own that Ulfrik would block with his shield. He would then jump away in time to get out of reach of Ulfrik’s sword.

It seemed to have been a fairly even fight until Icarus noticed one very important fact. Ulfrik had yet to move his feet since the beginning of the fight. He had been relying on his arms alone to fend off Nyarl’s advances. Nyarl may have had the speed advantage on Ulfrik, but the dwarf’s ability and experience greatly outclassed Nyarl’s.

A smile grew across Ulfrik’s face as Nyarl launched his next attack. The dwarf took a single step back as Nyarl sprang forward. This single step had been enough for Nyarl’s blades to miss their mark completely. Ulfrik used this moment of confusion to spring forward and shield bash Nyarl in the chest causing the red hair boy to fall on his back. Before he could lean back up, the tip of the wooden sword that Ulfrik had tapped him on the chest.

“That was a great battle lad,” Ulfrik helped Nyarl back up to his feet before patting him on the shoulder, “give it a few more years and you could give any dwarf a run for their money in a fight.”

The dwarves around them gave Nyarl a small applaud for his efforts. The way he fought was unconventional, but still effective against some opponents. It was now Icarus’ turn to fight against Ulfrik and he really wanted to show the dwarf everything that Terra had taught him. To Icarus’ surprise Ulfrik tossed his shield off to the side as their match began.

“Go Icarus!” cheered Terra from the sidelines as Icarus charged in. Icarus was going to start off with an upwards slash to try and knock the dwarf off balance. According to Terra most people were not going to be used to taking attacks from down below.

Before Icarus could bring his sword up fully, he felt the palm of Ulfrik’s hand hit him in the chest causing him to fall on his backside. The blow had taken him by surprise and winded him slightly. A few dwarves could be heard laughing as Icarus got back up to his feet.

“Nice try lad, but you can’t be charging in at an opponent stronger that you.”

Icarus completely ignored what Ulfrik had told him as he went straight back in with a thrust. This time Ulfrik just took a step to the side and held his arm out, close lining Icarus again. Even more dwarves laughed at this one.

“Calm down and think lad, getting aggravated will only get you killed.” Ulfrik was really trying to give Icarus some pointers, but his only made the elf even angrier.

In all Ulfrik didn’t even have to swing his sword once as Icarus continued to attack recklessly. Each time Ulfrik would floor him, hoping to teach him something. Around the fourth time that Icarus hit the ground Ulfrik decided to call it a day. Icarus was already worn out and bruised, but it was completely his fault. He looked over to the side and found Terra looking down at him.

Was it a look of pity that she was giving him? For some reason Icarus just couldn’t stand it. He had been brought out here to be made a fool of and now even Terra must have seen how pathetic he was. Before she could even take a step towards him Icarus was already running off the other direction.

“Icarus!” yelled Terra as she went after him.

[Leave me alone!] came back Icarus’ response as he made his way through the crowd. Hot tears were already beginning to run down his face. Icarus continued to run for half a mile before finding a small opening in a wall. It was big enough for him to sit in while being hidden from any onlookers.

Icarus didn’t know which emotion he was feeling the most of right now. He was jealous of how much Terra got along with Ulfrik. He was angry with just how weak he was. And now he was sad because he had hurt Terra by running off and yelling at her. The only thing that he felt useful for was his magic and now he wouldn’t even do that without Terra’s help. Icarus continued to cry alone for ten minutes until he was joined by the last person in the world that he wanted to be with.

“It’s alright to cry lad,” Ulfrik was sitting down against the wall twirling around a small locket. If Icarus could talk he would have gave a retort of some sort, but for now the most he could do was wipe the moisture out of his eyes.

“I’m sorry if I upset you earlier, but I can come off as rough around the edges sometimes.” The dwarf continued to look down at his locket before speaking again.

“You have nothing to worry about between me and Terra. She’s a pretty lass, but she’s more like a daughter to me than anything. Besides my wife would beat my ass if she thought I was cheating on her.”

Icarus took the time to look over and see Ulfrik looking down at a picture that was inside of his locket. It was a little hand drawn picture of a dwarven woman. She had short messy hair and a fiery expression on her face. A few scars could be seen, but none too deep.

“You should have seen the gash she left on the side of my head when I proposed that she moved deeper into the mountain. With the war and everything going on, it would be too dangerous to raise a child out here. But that is enough of me talking nonsense. If we don’t get back soon then Terra is going to come looking for us and I don’t want to see her upset.”

Icarus was beginning to feel a little better about himself, especially since he knew that Ulfrik didn’t have a romantic interest in Terra. It was a little childish of him for doing the stuff he did and he hoped that Terra would forgive him.

“How about I tell you how I first met Terra a couple years ago while she isn’t here.”

This of course caught Icarus’ interest as he waited for Ulfrik to start so that he could learn more about Terra’s past.

3 years earlier

Pushing some branches out of her way, Terra looked down the road as she started off on her first adventure. Her hometown of Mordin was miles behind the young adventurer. It was a bit difficult for Terra to part ways with the village, but she needed to go out and make a name for herself. If she had stayed she would have just been living underneath of her sister’s shadow. Some of the towns folk were already talking about Lily becoming the next Bastior within a couple of years time. This annoyed Terra since the only thing that Lily had going for her was her immense size.

Other than finally feeling free from an overprotective mother, and affectionate little sister, the absolute best part was the fact that Terra had no one to look up to. Terra had been told that even she would tower over the tallest of humans, but when you are half the size of a regular giant it was hard to believe. It wasn’t until she passed her first caravan that the joy of seeing all the small folk made Terra feel a bit more confident.

Everytime that Terra would come upon a regular human they would quickly go towards the other side of the road and try to avoid eye contact. It was a bit disheartening to see the way that people were afraid of her, but none of this made any difference to her. With the homemade hide and club in hand, Terra was ready to find her first job.

Luck was on the half giant’s side as the first village that Terra visited was currently having a problem with a small band of orcs raiding the caravan highway. At ten gold pieces a head it was the perfect start for Terra to rack up some coin. Fast forward fourteen hours and Terra’s luck began to tell a completely different story.

Terra had somehow snuck up on the orc camp during the middle of the night. The orcs were all gathered around a fire eating only the gods know what when Terra launched her surprise attack. It seemed like a great idea considering that the tallest amongst them only came up to Terra’s upper stomach. With a fierce yell Terra broke through the woodline and charged the orcs with her club held high.

A mighty swing caught one orc upside the head as it fell towards the ground. A sickening crunch was heard on impact as the orc laid lifeless by the fire. Terra turned towards the next one and hit him full on in the chest. This caused the orc to fly back six feet onto the ground. The blow had taken the wind out of the creature, but it was still alive thanks to its armor. By this time the orcs had regained their senses and took the offensive. Terra was able to dodge a couple of blows, or just simply push her attackers away with some effort. Unfortunately a couple blows did land that stung a great deal. The orcs had clubs of their own which packed more of a wallop than Terra had imagined. It was as soon as Terra unleashed her third attack that the battle quickly turned out of her favor. A deafening crack was heard through the clearing as Terra broke her club across an orcs stomach.

Seeing as how her only weapon was gone, the young warrior turned straight to her fists. The fight lasted for a few more minutes until Terra found herself pinned to the ground and heavily bruised. The thought of dying on her first mission was aggravating as the orcs considered their options. It was at this time that the leader fell forward with an arrow protruding from his eye socket.

The sound of dozens of rough voices joined the campsite as short armored warriors entered the clearing. Leading the charge was a red bearded dwarf wearing a helmet in the form of a ram’s head. Terra watched how the warriors quickly routed and defeated their much taller foes. The furiosity the leader fought with had impressed Terra greatly. Terra brought herself into a sitting position thanks to a female dwarf helping her up. The leader approached her and tore off his helmet before eyeing the young adventurer.

“What is a wee lass such as yourself doing in this neck of the woods?” asked the dwarf. Terra soon learned that the dwarfs name was Ulfrick and he was the leader of the Red Rams Warriors. Terra told her story about how she had always wanted to be an adventurer and how she had taken up this job as her first assignment.

This simply caused the battle hardened dwarf to laugh. He explained that while Terra might have the size and strength to be an adventurer she clearly lacked the equipment and skills to be successful. Terra felt insulted by the warrior’s words, but knew that they rang true. It was at this point that she begged the dwarf to teach her how to properly fight. At first Ulfrick was hesitant about letting a young lass join his group until the female dwarf from before gave him a blow straight to his stomach.

The female dwarf, Argwen, gave Ulfrick a stern look before demanding that he allow Terra to join their party. It would give Terra the experience she needed, while giving the dwarf another female to hang out with. Ulfrick finally agreed and it was at that point that Terra became a member of Ulfrick’s group.

For the next two years Terra traveled with the group. Ulfrick was a lot more down to earth than what Terra originally thought. The dwarf was especially blunt at times but fair. Despite the size difference between them, Ulfrick was an amazing teacher. It was under his guidance that Terra became the powerhouse that she was today.

One day Ulfrick received news that his presence was needed by the dwarven king. It was with a heavy heart that Terra bid the band of merry misfits a farewell as she started her own journey. With an actual sword at her side, and a set of functional armor the giant lass was ready to take on anything that the world had in store for her.

Icarus sat in silence with Ulfrick as the dwarf finished
his story. It was nice to hear that even Terra wasn’t always the person that Icarus knew. Looking over Icarus held his hand over Ulfrick’s shoulder. He was a bit uneasy with communicating with people beside of Nyarl and Terra, but he had some questions. Thankfully Terra had left the covering of his sphere open to allow him access to his magic. Ulfrick felt a cool shock go through him as Icarus laid his hand upon his shoulder.

[So even Terra wasn’t perfect when she started out?] asked Icarus as he eyed the older dwarf. The conversation that he had had with Terra, along with the oddities that he had seen on his adventures helped Ulfrick with the sudden voice that resonated inside of his head.

“Are you kidding me? I’ve seen that lass get her ass handed to her on a silver platter several times!”

This caused Icarus to giggle internally. It was odd for the dwarf to hear the laughter inside of his head, while the elf made no noise. The best that he could do was join in as well.

[Do you really think that someone like me could someday be as self reliant as her?] asked Icarus.

“Everyone has their strengths boyo,” replied Ulfrick as he thought out the question. “Given enough time and training I believe that you could stand your ground against most normal fighters, but people like Terra are meant for something greater.”

[She really is amazing huh?] thought Icarus fondly. Icarus had seen both Terra’s fierce side along with her gentler side. How someone that great had fallen for him still seemed surreal.

“She can be at times, but at others she is just as mortal as the rest of us. I remember one time that Terra had tried to capture a mountain boar with her bare hands…”

“For your sake, I wouldn’t finish that story if I were you.” came a familiar voice. Terra had soon joined the two of them. Kneeling downwards she extended her hand towards Icarus. With a gentle tug she was able to bring the small elf to his feet once again.

“I’m sorry for what happened back there,” said Terra as she gazed into Icarus’ eyes. Her hand held the side of his face as Icarus leaned into it.

[No, I’m sorry for letting my emotions get the better of me.] replied Icarus.

“Now come on you two, the King has called for a meeting with us.”

Icarus was glad to walk beside of Terra as the group made its way back to the training ground. Nyarl had just finished up his third round of sparring as the group entered through the tunnel. The boy quickly ran up to Icarus and gave him a playful punch in the arm. It stung a bit due to Nyarl’s greater strength, but Icarus didn’t mind as he threw a punch of his own. On their journey to the throne room, Nyarl gave Icarus a play by play of his skirmishes. He was currently on a 1-3 streak if you included his match with Ulfric. He had been able to outmatch the dwarves when it came to speed and dexterity, but their raw strength, durability, and experience proved too much for Nyarl to overcome. Nyarl bragged that given a year or two he could stand toe to toe with any fighter that crossed his path. Terra chimed in to say that he had a ways to go before catching up to her as she ruffled his hair.

The trio soon came upon the bridge that Nyarl and Icarus had visited the night before. The group was now standing in front of the golden line when Ulfrick brought them to a stop.

“Give me a moment to grab you guys some passes to get into the King’s study.” said Ulfrick as he stepped across the line.

“Why don’t we just walk in?” asked Terra as she eyed the golden line that stretched across the ground.

“Feel free to try it yourself lass, but this is an anti kiddo line. Only mature adults such as myself may pass.” laughed Ulfrick as he stood smugly on the opposite side.

Terra waved away his warning as she took a step forward. He had only made it half a step when her foot struck an invisible wall. The sudden stop caused her to fall forward, but luckily the wall was able to stop her. Terra spent several seconds examining the mysterious force before hitting it. To her surprise it didn’t feel solid so her fist was fine, but even she couldn’t make headway against this magic.

“Alright then, what exactly is this?” asked Terra as she stared down at the dwarf.

“As I said it’s an anti kiddo line. You have to have reached adulthood in order to pass by.” replied Ulfrick.

“But I’m a good bit over 18 though.” said Terra.

“That may be, but a dwarf isn’t considered an adult unless they are a hundred!” laughed Ulfrick. “It has its uses, but most humans will never pass this line which required us to make special passes for the younger folk to enter.”

While the two continued their talk, Nyarl and Icarus was staring at each other. Nyarl for his part was amazed to finally understand the reason that Icarus was able to cross the line the other night, while he couldn’t. Nyarl motioned for Icarus to take a step forward in which Icarus replied by shaking his head side to side. Icarus had looked back up to Terra when he felt a pair of hands give him a push from behind.

[NYARL!] shouted Icarus as he stumbled forward. He would have fallen on his face if Ulfrick hadn’t caught him.

Looking up to the dwarf, Icarus found a look of surprise as Icarus stood on the opposite side of the line. Turning around Terra had the same look as well as she knelt down closer to his level.

“Icarus,” began Terra as she looked down at her partner, “Just how old are you?” Inside Terra felt a bit conflicted. She had been with Icarus for a while now, and could hear his thoughts. Combine that with Icarus’ history it didn’t make sense for him to be able to cross a barrier such as this one.

[I….don’t know] replied Icarus as he stared back at Terra. He hated the fact that he couldn’t give her a proper answer. His memories only started back by the nine years that he had been at Windhook, but that started to feel like a lie. How did he know the things that he did? The history of places he couldn’t have possibly known, or the very magic that he had access to. What about the tears that fell from his face when he saw anything related to the elves?

“Well, there is one fact that we can all agree on,” said Ulfrick as he stared down at Icarus. Icarus felt small underneath of his gaze. Ulfrick looked back up at Terra with a small grin on his face.

“Looks like Icarus here is a cradle robber!”

Ulfrick burst out into laughter and was soon joined by Nyarl. Nyarl’s laughter was quickly cut short and Terra slapped the boy across the back of his head. Ulfrick was lucky that a barrier was between them as Terra would surely do the same to him.

[I’m sorry….] thought Icarus as he locked eyes with Terra. [I swear I had no idea about any of this]

“Its okay Icarus,” replied Terra as she placed her palm against the wall, “there are still a few mysteries about you that we don’t know, but whatever they are we will learn about them together.”