sparklingdarklady - Tumblr blog

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 25

(*(Chapter Twenty Five)*)

STOMP! STOMP! STOMP! STOMP!

Silent, Asterix listened from within the mouse hole and heard the guards' heavy footsteps walking by. As their dark boots gradually faded into the distance, he was tense as he carefully peaked out.

Looking up and down the corridor, he saw, much to his relief, that he was alone. No one was coming up or down the long candle-lit hallways - this was good! The more he could remain unseen, the less likely he'd be found by the awful rulers of the castle or the dark-possessed Jensen.

Hopping out of the hole, he sighed. Then, thinking to himself, he tried to think of a new shape to turn into. One that was fast but also good at climbing, in case he needed to make a speedy exit. Then quickly, one came to mind and-!

GLOW!

He grew double the size of his mouse form, and his tail became bushy and curled over him. His little body became decorated with darker and lighter stripes along his back.

Feeling his transformation complete, he shook himself ready, looked over himself, and saw that he'd become a chipmunk. Pleased, he whispered, “Okay, I should be fast enough in this shape!”

Though he could have changed into a squirrel, who were better climbers. He knew it was too big for now and could draw unwanted attention with his body glowing with its gold light. He had to be careful like Asha told him to be.

It was too dangerous to go straight to the Arena, for he hadn't seen a clear way there while hiding within her bag, and he still didn't know this place's complete ins and outs. He couldn't let anyone find him, so he couldn't risk bumping into someone accidentally. Also, hiding within the mouse holes wouldn't be good in the long run, for how on earth would Asha ever find him hidden behind the stone walls?

Determined, he ran to find a safe place to hide and meet up with her. But as he ran, he couldn't help but wonder, as he looked about. What would be the perfect place?

X X X X X X X X

“Alright! C'mon, chop! Chop!”

“Urgh!” Annoyed, Christopher marching alongside him, along with the guards who'd gone hunting in a mad dash everywhere. Couldn't help but ask, “What do they want this time? I thought we were supposed to be on the lookout for the Kobalos!?”

As his subordinate complained, Captain Lawrence sighed and then told him, “This IS to do with the creature!” With that, standing to attention as they entered the hall, he continued, “It is not our place to question the intentions of his Majesty!” For he added, tightening his hand upon the top of his blade, “After all, everything he does is for our protection.”

Christopher hearing this as he stood to attention next to him, as the other guards filed in and got into good hearing distance, to hear their next orders. Looked at him and asked, “...Didn't you try to ask about Jensen?”

Captain Lawrence gripped his sword a little more, and revealed, “Yes...” However, with a shake of his head, he continued, “But his Lord was not in the mood to discuss it.”

Christopher looked conflicted and then asked, “Aren't you worried about him?”

“Of course I am...” He answered. Then continued, “After all, you two are all that remains of our original squadron that fought in the war, I can't let anything happen to either of you.”

Hearing this, Christopher was still for a moment. Then with a slight smile, told him, “Glad to see you care boss.”

“Of course!” Captain Lawrence replied, then he added looking ahead, seeing the royal couple enter the meeting hall, “Every good leader cares for those who work with them.”

Christopher nodded, but before he could say another word-!

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

“Alright men!”

Immediately, all the guards and soldiers in the space turned their attention to their King, standing rigidly. As they did, Magnifico announced, with Amaya standing by his side, “Now listen up! There's a traitor in this castle!”

They all looked shocked hearing these words, expecting as much. Magnifico smiled calmly and continued, “I'm sorry to say, I haven't been able to save her in time...” Then, looking so sad, he revealed, “She's been corrupted by the Kobalos and is working in tandem with them.”

All their faces were concerned and worried, then one dark-haired man raised his hand and asked, “Um, who is it, your Majesty?”

“Oh, I'm so glad you asked!” Magnifico replied, then, with a hand to his chest, he told them, “Well, sadly, it's someone who's become quite dear to my heart.”

“Excuse me?” Amaya asked with a bitter glare.

Freezing awkwardly for a moment, Magnifico laughed and coughed, correcting himself and said, “In a professional sense, I mean!” Then, putting an arm around his wife's shoulder, he said, “For nothing becomes between us, dear!”

She stared at him quietly with a critical eye, seemed satisfied, and replied with a smile, “Good!” Then, putting her head on his shoulder, she told him, patting his chest, “Continue!”

“Very well!” He smiled, looked at the baffled guards and soldiers and told them, “The traitor I have learned is my magical Apprentice, Asha!”

Immediately, there were gasps of shock. Silent at this, Magnifico heard a familiar voice, Captain Lawrence, who asked, “Are you sure, Sir?”

“Absolutely!” He confirmed with a nod.

His subordinate was silent momentarily before his expression became severe, and he asked, “Do you want us to arrest her right now?”

Pleased by the question, Magnifico replied, “Oh, yes!” Then, before all his loyal men could take arms, he stopped them, “But not immediately!”

They looked puzzled, and then Captain Lawrence asked for them all, “May I ask why your Highness?”

Smiling, Magnifico informed them, “Because, during the performance tonight, during her part of the show, the Kobalos is sure to make an appearance!” Then he revealed his intent, “When it does, you all will then act and save our civilians from its corruption, by capturing them both!”

There were then echoes of amazement throughout their numbers, and pleased by this effect, Magnifico grinned and said, “And I have already decided where each of your divisions will be placed, now listen up!” With that, he watched as all his men focused on him and his every word. He enjoyed the attention as he gave them all their directions; Magnifico looked forward to the upcoming confrontation, where he and his beloved would surely gain what they truly deserved!

…

Smiling, watching him as he continued issuing his orders, holding her by her shoulder. Amaya smiled, proud of the man who was her King and husband.

She couldn't wait to finally gain their Star Child. She then looked around, wanting to give her affections to someone else who was most deserving of them.

However, to her dismay, he was nowhere nearby. Puzzled, she whispered, “Where's Charo?” But she received no answer and would have to wait before she felt his soft and cuddly warmth again.

X X X X X X X X

“Asterix are you here?” Whispering his name as she looked about a corridor she made it to... Asha received no answer.

With a sigh of dismay, she walked forward. She was nervous now, horribly nervous. Thinking back to before they departed, she should have decided on a place they they could meet up together, but they were so rushed there was no time and-!

With a hand on her head, feeling a stressful headache coming, she uttered, “I'm so stupid!” She should have thought better ahead of time and been prepared for this kind of situation, for if anything bad happened to him...She bit her lower lip and knew deep down that she could never forgive herself. She had to find him!

Trying to soothe the stressful ache, she rubbed her forehead and uttered, “Okay, c'mon! Think, think, think where would he go!” Then she searched her mind, imagining all the places he might run off to. She then remembered one of the key things about him, “Food!”

That surely was the best place to start, for he was such a glutton. But then, imagining his face as he ate so happily with a blush on his cheeks, Asha couldn't deny it. He was so cute when he ate and enjoyed the foods she let him try.

She wanted to see his smile again and know he was safe, to ease her aching heart. Gripping her hand away from her forehead, she took hold of her bag and said, “Alright, let's try looking in the kitchens!” With that, she turned directions to go there, when she saw someone who made her stop in her tracks.

Walking in her direction was one of the guardsmen, Jensen.

Staring at him, Asha remembered what Asterix had told her, that he was possessed by a dark spirit. Feeling a chill at this knowledge, she kept her eyes down, not wanting to make eye contact. If there was one thing protecting her, then it was the fact that he didn't know she knew of his condition.

She began to walk by Jensen; however, as she did, she felt an awful chill emanating from him that made her shiver and clutch her bag tighter. For if he discovered about her and Asterix, then-!

“Hey!”

“Ah!”

Squeaking in fright, she cautiously turned around and looked at the messy blonde pony-tailed young man. He gazed down at her with ice-cold eyes and an unhappy expression.

Gazing at him and remembering him from the other day, Asha could feel it. It was like night and day. This person didn't have the relaxed and jovial air she'd seen before. Now, he was rigid and bitter. She didn't want to be anywhere near him!

However, she couldn't give anything away and, gulping, asked nervously, “Sorry, um? Can I help you with something...Sir?”

He stared at her silently, then after a moment, he replied, “Have you seen anything unusual around here?”

“Unusual?” Asha repeated, puzzled.

“Yes, something peculiar, odd, strange,” As he went through this list of descriptors, he finished saying, “Something that is not of this world, shining with golden light.” His eyes narrowing, he asked, “Have you seen such a thing?”

As Asterix came to her mind, she prayed desperately that this thing couldn't read minds. Smiling sheepishly, she replied, “Uh, no! Um, never once in my life...” Then she laughed nervously.

“Hmm...” He seemed to be thinking of something as he stared at her, and Asha really didn't like the look in his eyes. Then he asked, “Are you sure?”

“Oh, yeah definitely sure!” She replied fast, then desperate, she continued, “But look sorry, I'm in a hurry, so bye!” With that, she tried to run when-!

“Wait!”

GRAB!

“Ah!”

Horrified, Asha then felt her arm be grabbed. As it was, she looked at him, terrified, as he studied her with a stern gaze.

She shook, and as she did, he said, “You're frightened, why?” He asked her.

No words came to her mind. She couldn't think of anything. If she said the wrong thing then, this dark spirit inside Jensen, she didn't know what he might do to her or-?

“Asha!?”

Shocked, she turned, and so did the possessed Jensen. To her relief, Asha saw it was none other than, “Dahlia!?”

The red-dressed girl, seeing what was happening, demanded, “Hey! You! What do you think you're doing?!” With that, she marched forward heatedly with outrage.

Seeing her approach, Asha knew this was just what she needed. Moving fast, she dislodged herself from Jensen's slackened grip and told her, “Um! It's nothing! Really, he needed help with something!” With that, she retreated fast and away from the possessed young man.

“Help with what?” Dahlia asked. Then, as she looked at Asha and Jensen with appalled eyes, she demanded, “What kind of help entitles him to grab you like-!”

“I'll tell you later!” Asha urgently interrupted. Moving fast, she got behind Dahlia and-!

“Hey!”

Asha quickly circled around and pushed into Dahlia's back, making them retreat fast and away from Jensen as she hurried them out of his presence. But before entirely leaving, she cried to him, “Uh, good luck in your search!” With that, she and a perplexed Dahlia disappeared around the corner.

…

As they left the vicinity, Jensen was quiet. However, looking down at his hand, he could see it - faint glimmers of gold, a Star Child's dust... Then, looking at where the odd girl had gone, he could feel it. The two had a strong connection; he needed to watch for her.

X X X X X X X X

After turning and going down a few more corridors, Asha looked behind and saw, that Jensen was out of sight. She breathed a sigh of relief, saying, “Finally, finally, we're safe!”

“Asha get off me!”

Hearing Dahlia's complaint, Asha stopped pushing and retreated, making her friend stumble forward and barely keep her balance. She quickly apologised, saying, “Oh, sorry! Sorry, Dahlia! There wasn't any time back there, I was just-!”

“No time?” Dahlia asked, baffled. Then, tidying herself and turning to look at her thoroughly, she asked, “Asha, what was that about? What's going on?”

She stared at her silently and then remembered everything Asterix had told her. She also thought of Magnifico, who told her other people could never be trusted, but she knew that wasn't true. She and Asterix needed allies against this growing darkness, so she took a deep breath and said, “Dahlia?”

She stayed silent, staring at her before replying, “Yeah?”

Asha told her, “I have something I need to tell you.” With that, she walked with her to a safe spot, where she could reveal what had been going on for the last few days and what she had learned from her dear star boy.

X X X X X X X X

Scurrying forward, Asterix, looking about, tried to find signs of Asha through the many corridors he passed through while hiding when he needed to. However, sadly, as he gazed about, he saw nothing of her.

Depressed, he couldn't make heads or tails of the place. Everything looked too similar in his small size. But he had to keep trying, otherwise-!

“Okay, here we go!”

“Ah!” Hiding behind a pillar nearby, Asterix peered around it carefully and, to his surprise, saw it was none other than “Simon!” For there, indeed, was one of Asha's treasured friends.

Over his shoulder, he was heaving a big brown sack of some kind. Watching him, Asterix saw Simon descend a set of stairs. As he did, he looked around and saw that, fortunately, no one else was nearby.

If there was somewhere safe he could go, it was undoubtedly where Asha's friends could be found! With a possible safe destination now located, Asterix chased after Simon and hopped after him down the stairs, unaware of a pair of narrowed, angry eyes watching after him...

X X X X X X X X

Hopping down the stairs, following as cautiously close as he could, Asterix tailed after Simon as he travelled into more stony and darkened corridors.

It all felt foreboding as he saw the shadows grow around him. Now, he'd be too easy to spot if Simon turned around or anyone walked in from behind. Looking backwards to ensure he was still alone, it was then-!

“Flour delivery!”

Spooked, he quickly hid behind a side pillar. Gasping for breath at having to move so fast, he peered carefully around the corner to see what was happening in the room Simon had entered when he heard-!

“About time! These cakes aren't gonna make themselves ya know!”

Pausing, hearing this, Asterix repeated curiously, “Cakes?”

Then, as Simon disappeared into the inner depths of the place, he saw a long, fancy wooden table in the centre decorated with lots of sweet treats and other succulent delicacies. Breathing in the sweet aroma, he couldn't help but feel hungry. He felt tempted to take a step in.

However, he stopped himself by shaking his head. His common sense kicked in as he saw many individuals inside running around and hurriedly preparing an abundance of food everywhere. This place was undoubtedly the kitchens of the castle. Looking at all the hasty workers, Asterix knew if he went inside now, he'd be spotted in seconds if he charged in mindlessly.

He had to be more careful than this. Maybe it wasn't a good idea to come down here after all? Sighing, disappointed that he couldn't eat again, he uttered, “Maybe another day?” He needed to try again to find a safe spot, and he turned to leave when-!

“MMMRRROOOAAA!!!”

To his horror, his dreaded adversary loomed over him with his claws drawn. “Charo!?”

At his cry, the ferocious Egyptian Mau launched his attack!

SLASH!

“Whoa!?”

Asterix leapt out of the way, then, acting on instinct, he turned the corner, launched panicked into the Kitchens, and ran up to one of the legs of the display table. Climbing it fast, he then heard-!

“Hey!?”

Charo was coming straight after him, bumping into one worker's legs! He didn't stay to watch and climbed up fast, just as the ferocious feline tried again to-!

SLASH!

“AGH!”

“Huh?”

As he cried out, making it to the top of the table, he heard, “You hear that?”

“Heard what?” another asked. Quickly hiding behind a tall pillar of treats, Asterix looked about himself rapidly. Then he saw something he could use to cover himself. If only momentarily, he grabbed a nearby daisy-looking cookie and held it over himself, trying carefully to move along the table and not be spotted.

“I swear I heard a yell or somethin'?” The curious one replied.

“Probably your imagination!” The sceptical one answered with a scoff; Asterix was just making his way past the two, praying with all his might that he wouldn't be spotted, when he heard that same man say, “You havin' a sugar crash or something?”

“How could I? When we're surrounded by all these confections!” the curious one laughed. Then Asterix felt a shadow over him and stopped immediately. “Never in a million years!”

“True!” Then suddenly, he felt the cookie he was holding being lifted up, and it was too late to let go as he was lifted with it! “Though we never get a bite, do we?”

“Yeah, it's no fair that-!”

As the man stopped, Asterix shivered, and the grabber who unknowingly held him asked, “What're you stopping for?”

“Uh, turn that over?” The curious man replied, now sounding scared.

“What?” The man did, and Asterix saw that he now had two baffled kitchen cooks staring at him with wide, shocked eyes!

Freezing, he tried to be friendly and say, “Uh, hello?” Making an awkward wide grin with his chipmunk teeth.

“AAAAGGGGHHHH!!!!”

The horror was immediate; Asterix felt the man holding him cry out, swinging him around everywhere, “What is this!? What's this!?”

He'd happily explain if he calmed down, but this chaotic turbulence made that impossible! Then-!

“MMMRRROOOAAA!!!”

Charo was straight after him again, seeing him coming as he launched himself from the table with his claws drawn. Asterix had to act fast and-!

GLOW!

He transformed into a small bird again, flying high into the air and as he did-!

“KOBALOS!!!!”

Chaos was unleashed into the kitchens, and he'd landed himself in really hot water! He needed to get out of this mess and fast!

X X X X X X X X

Walking around a corner, away from their private space, where Asha had decided to place her faith in Dahlia. She'd finished explaining the entire situation to her, and looking at her as they moved, she asked, “So...what do you think?”

Dahlia stared ahead with wide eyes, but then, as Asha enquired, she stopped and asked, “What do I think?”

As she did this, Asha stared back at her, worried. Did she not believe her? Or was she going to reveal everything, to-?

“I think you're a total idiot!” Dahlia told her, mad.

Dumbstruck, Asha had not expected that answer and uttered, “What?”

“Why didn't you tell me sooner!” Then Dahlia grabbed her by the shoulders, shaking her. She said, “Do you realise how much I love these crazy type of adventures? Why would you keep me out of it!?”

As she shook back and forth, Asha felt dizzy and replied, “Uh, well, I! I was trying to be careful! I didn't know how you'd react, I-!”

“You dummy!” Dahlia finished angrily.

Then, as she stopped shaking her, Asha stared at Dahlia, who looked at her with a frown. The spectacled girl then moved her hand up to her face and-!

FLICK!

“Ow!”

Asha felt her quickly hit her in the forehead with her fingers. Rubbing her head, she didn't know what to say at first to this when she heard-

“Honestly! Why do you always try to do everything on your own! Who do you think you are?” Dahlia demanded. Then, folding her arms, she asked, “Some lone knight in shining armour?”

After some silence, Asha replied with an awkward smile, “Um? That'd be Simon, wouldn't it?”

“Don't try and be cute!” Dahlia replied, still mad.

Asha quietened and looked down, ashamed.

After some silence, Dahlia sighed and replied, “Look, I get it to a degree that you were worried you were gonna get found out with Asterix, but you should have trusted me and Simon a bit more!” With that, she moved forward, and patting Asha on the shoulder, she asked her, “After all, we've been friends since forever, haven't we?”

Staring at her with awe, Asha became a little teary and replied, “Yeah, I know we have...” Then, wiping her eyes, she told her, “It's just, I didn't want anything bad to happen to you and Simon, I'd be happy to take the fall on my own, but I couldn't drag anyone else down with me, so-”

“And I'm telling you that's what makes you a dummy!” Dahlia told her, sounding annoyed again.

Silent, Asha reluctantly nodded and replied, “Yeah, I know. I know that now so...” Looking at Dahlia fully, she told her, despite her grumpy expression, “I won't keep you out of this anymore. I'll keep you both in the loop now.”

Dahlia didn't change immediately, but then, with a sigh, she nodded and told her, “Good! Glad to hear you make the right choice now!” With that, she walked with Asha, and moving her arm, she put it around her shoulder and said, “Now, c'mon! We've gotta update our plans!”

Amazed hearing this, Asha smiled happily and replied, “Yeah! We do!”

Then, as they continued walking together, Dahlia asked her, “So... we got dark spirits or whatever and the King wants to use us for W. A. R. And these things want Asterix?”

“Yeah, that's pretty much it.” Asha confirmed.

“Whoa!” Dahlia uttered, then squeezed her shoulder and told her, “Good thing I came when I did!” With an appalled look, she said, “I'd hate to think what that creep might have done to you!”

“Yeah, same!” Asha replied, smiling. Then, thinking of who needed her now, she said, “And I'm dreading what they might do if they get Asterix. We've got to make sure that doesn't happen!”

“We won't!” Dahlia told her, then smiled and said, “Me and Simon will help keep him safe, don't you worry!” She promised with a thumbs-up.

“Thanks Dahlia!” Asha smiled happily.

Her spectacled friend grinned in reply with a nod, then she asked, “So? Where do you think he would have got to?”

“I think the kitchens!” Asha replied, then explained, “You remember how much Asterix loves eating right? If there's anywhere he'd go, it definitely be where there's loads of food nearby.”

“Hmm...” Dahlia was in thought, then she replied, “Yep, I agree! That makes total sense!” Then, gripping her shoulder again, she said, “Alright let's go get him!”

“Yeah, let's!” Asha agreed, and they were on their way when-!

“HURRY UP!!!!”

STOMP! STOMP! STOMP! STOMP!

Spooked, they saw guards run on behind them, and they hurriedly got out of the way!

Then, outraged, Dahlia cried, “Hey! What's the big idea!? Where are you going!?”

A dark-haired man leading them looked back at her and revealed, “The Kobalos has been spotted in the Kitchens! We're going there to apprehend it now!”

Asha paled in seconds. Then, watching them run ahead, she turned and told her friend, “We've got to get there now!”

“You got it, follow me!” Dahlia replied. Then Asha followed after her, and she hoped they would both get there in time to save Asterix from his predicament!

X X X X X X X X

“KOBALOS!!!!”

“GET IT!!! GET IT!!!”

Asterix couldn't believe his bad luck, fluttering here, there, and everywhere. He was desperately trying to escape from the sea of greedy hands trying to get at him!

Flapping hard, he climbed higher into the air and quickly landed upon some dark, heavy, iron-made display held aloft by chains with many pans and ladles hanging from it. Hopping on it, he looked down at them all, and he heard someone from amongst the crowd cry out,

“THERE HE IS!!!!”

Terrified, he hurriedly closed his eyes and quickly-!

GLOW!

He transformed again and became a bushy-tailed squirrel!

“GET HIM!!!!”

TOSS! TOSS! TOSS! TOSS! TOSS!

Panicked, he ran to the display's edge, opening his arms. Flaps extended out, revealing he was not an ordinary squirrel but a flying one! He jumped and glided quickly down, and as he did-!

“WE GOT YOU NOW!!!”

He saw a big group of them running his way and shuddered. But then, landing on a large wooden cabinet, he breathed in and out, uttering, “Not yet, not yet!”

“COME HERE!!!”

Their hands extended out to nab him as they came after him in one big group and-!

“Now!” Asterix cried; with that, he ran quick as a flash across its wooden surface and-!

“AAAAGGGGHHHH!!!!”

CRASH!!!!

The would-be grabbers all collided with the cabinet, which in turn-!

SMASH!!!!

Caused the delicate plates and other items within it to smash to pieces, all over them and scattering onto the floor in an awful mess.

“Ah!” Asterix then felt himself being propelled up. Feeling it, he closed his eyes again and-!

GLOW!

He transformed again, turning into a faster shape. His bat form fluttering up fast, he landed on the brickwork of a nearby fireplace, where an iron cauldron was bubbling underneath him.

Gasping, trying to catch his breath, he then heard,

“WHY YOU LITTLE!!!!”

He saw someone else try to leap up and get him!

“Ah!” This startled him so much that he flew up, and then he landed on the edge of a cooking pot with his claws, which-!

“Whoa!?”

Caused it to tumble back from the force of his speedy and desperate pull, which then-!

CLANG!!!!

Hit the pursuer on the head, making him fall back and see stars float over him.

Hurriedly, Asterix landed back on the ledge of the fireplace. Looking below, he apologetically told him, “Oh, sorry! Sorry!” This really wasn't his day, and then-!

“MMMRRROOOAAA!!!”

With an awful shudder, hearing that terrible sound again, Asterix saw it was Charo again behind him! Appalled, he cried out, “Oh, not again!”

The terrible Egyptian Mau then charged after him, and Asterix took off! Landing on the desert table, he was getting so tired. He really couldn't get used to chases like this, and then-!

“HHHIIISSS!!!!”

Appalled, he cried, “Oh, give me a break! Why won't you leave me alone?!”

“Mmrreeoow!”

Quiet, hearing Charo's angry declaration. Asterix stared at him and asked, “My fault?”

“Meow!”

As he confirmed this, Asterix said, “I never asked for this! I never came here to cause upset! I'm just here to-!”

“MMMRRROOOAAA!!!”

Charo, it was clear, didn't care for his reasoning and immediately charged after him again!

“Agh!” Asterix dotted about everywhere with the ferocious feline hot on his trail, causing many dishes to clatter and then-!

SMASH!!!!

Crash onto the floor and break into countless pieces!

Seeing this happen in upset, Asterix stopped and cried, “Hey! Stop ruining the food!”

“HHHIIISSS!!!!”

Charo just leapt at him again. Asterix fluttered and flew out of the way. Then he flew over an enormous and tall blue and white ceramic punch bowl. Looking down at its deep red contents, with a bountiful of colourful fruits floating within it. His mind raced, and he quickly thought of something he could do!

Landing fast onto the table, he looked from behind the blue and white container and saw Charo hadn't caught sight of him. Realising this, he raced through the lists of creatures he could become and quickly came up with one that might work!

Readying himself, he flew up and stood on the edge of the bowl. He saw Charo had his back turned. As he did, he decided it was time, and with that, he puckered up his lips and-!

“FFFFWWWWEEEETTTT!!!!!”

He whistled loudly, which got Charo's attention. The cat angrily turned with his hair raised, and in seconds, locating him, he charged in his direction with his teeth bared!

Asterix wanted this, then he opened his wings wide and ready, then when Charo got too dangerously close, readying to leap, he flew some distance away from the bowl, landing on the table. Then he focused and quickly-!

GLOW!

He transformed and in that moment-!

“MMMRRROOOAAA!!!”

Charo leapt over the punch bowl at that moment with his sharp claws extended while Asterix charged forward in his new shape, jumping using his big, long feet. Making it over him, he stomped them straight down into the aggressive cat's back and-!

SPLASH!!!!

Caused him to dive head-first into the deep pool of red punch inside it!

“MMMEEEOOOOWWWW!!!!”

Landing on the other side of it, as Charo screeched in horror at his now soaking red state, unable to climb out. Asterix stopped himself hurriedly from falling off the side of the table in his new big hare shape. Breathing in and out hard from the exhilaration, he told him, “And that's why they call me Thumper!” But then stopping, he asked himself, “Wait was that even a good-?”

“OVER HERE!!!!”

On alert immediately, he saw more people were coming! Running with his fast legs, he ran to a nearby wooden door and-!

GLOW!

He turned into his mouse shape again, then quickly headed straight under its edge. He hurriedly pulled himself through to the other side. Then-!

“BOK-KAH!!!!”

He freaked out a lady hen and quickly told her, “Oh, sorry, miss! Sorry!” Then, seeing the rest of the feathery ladies stare at him perplexed and on guard, sitting within their keep and in the hay with him, he told them, “I'm really sorry for intruding everyone! But I was in a hurry, so-!”

“SEARCH EVERYWHERE LEAVE NO CORNER UNTURNED!”

Hearing this loud, angry cry, Asterix knew this was not good news! He had to do something. Running into a corner of the room, his mind raced about what to do when he realised, “Wait! I've got time now. I can become human!” If they found him now, he could pretend to know nothing and walk out, and they wouldn't suspect anything.

Sighing with relief, realising this, he closed his eyes and then-!

GLOW!

His small mouse form gradually morphed and grew as he returned to his preferred human form. Feeling enormously comfortable becoming normal again, he moved his hand to his pocket and said, “And just to be on the safe side, I'll put on the red hat again and-!”

However, as he reached into his pocket, he discovered, much to his distress, that it wasn't there! Horrified, he realised, touching rapidly about trying to find any sign of it, that he wouldn't be able to hide his glowing hair, and if they saw him now, then-!

CCCRRREEEAAAKKK!

The door was opening. In terror, he tried to get in the corner and hide! It was too late now to transform, and-!

“What's going on here?”

Shocked, Asterix turned around. Standing in the opened doorway, it was none other than, “Simon?”

Indeed, there was Asha's green-clad friend. He stared at him with wide eyes and asked, “Asterix?” Then, as he stepped inside, he asked, “What's going on? Why're you here and-!”

Then, he realised Simon was staring at his golden glow and became startled. Worried, Asterix didn't know how Simon felt. Was he frightened of him? Would he shout out or-?

“Asterix...what is this? What are you?” Simon asked him in disbelief.

Nervous, Asterix looked about himself. Then, reaching a cautious hand forward, he told him, “Look, I promise I'm nothing dangerous! I'm not this Kobalos thing you've heard about!” Then, gulping, trying to swallow his nerves, he quickly added, “I've been working with Asha to make everyone happy and-!”

“Oi! Simon!”

Both of them became spooked. Asterix stayed quiet and then heard the man behind him ask,

“Ya find anything in there?”

Asterix shivered with nervousness.

Simon, too, looked conflicted. He did nothing at first, then gripping his right hand, he looked to the side. Asterix stayed silent as he watched him close his eyes and reply, “No! There's nothing here!”

Asterix became amazed.

“Honestly?”

“No, nothing!” he replied. Turning back, he grabbed the door and said, “But I'm going to gather some more eggs. We'll need more after that catastrophe!”

“Ya mean CATastrophe, honestly that blasted animal and darn Kobalos!”

Simon laughed awkwardly and replied, “Uh, yeah! They're a real terror, I hope the Queen doesn't eat you alive when you pass him on.”

“Yeah, same! See you in a while.”

He nodded to the person behind him, and then he was on his way, and Simon fully closed the door. Then, walking over to Asterix, he asked him, “Okay! C'mon talk to me! What's going on?”

Asterix stared at him, and quickly, a big smile came to his face as he told him, “Simon! Thank you! I'm so glad you trust me!”

“How couldn't I?” Then, with a chuckle, he told him, “You're the least dangerous person I've ever met, I'd never believe you were this Kobalos thing!” However, looking over him, he said, “But I do want the truth now, so c'mon! Out with it, what's happening?”

“Okay, I'll tell you!” Asterix replied, and with that, he began to explain everything he had found out while doing his investigations and what he'd been helping Asha to do to achieve her wish.

X X X X X X X X

After a while, Asha and Dahlia finally reached the kitchens, and they saw-!

“C'MON! SEARCH EVERYWHERE! THAT KOBALOS IS IN HERE SOMEWHERE!”

Feeling a shudder at this shout, Asha looked at Dahlia and heard her utter, “Darn it! I thought that shortcut would be faster!” Then her spectacled friend looked at her sadly and said, “Sorry, Asha!”

Shaking her head, she told her, “Don't apologise.” Then, looking at the devastation that was left behind, along with the injured cooks and other attendants groaning in pain on the floor, her anxiety made her heart thump painfully, but she couldn't show her nerves and said, “Let's just hope we have some luck in here.”

Dahlia nodded, and they ventured deeper into the ruined kitchens.

There were destroyed plates and strewn food everywhere. Asha was terribly worried by the sight, while Dahlia cried, “Ah! For goodness sake!” Then she watched her crouch down and say, irritated, “It took me ages to bake these cookies!”

Releasing a troubled laugh, Asha replied, “Yeah, it must be a real pain for you.”

“That's just saying it lightly!” Dahlia frowned, then as she stood up, she said, “The Queen's never gonna let us hear the end of this!”

“Mmmeeeooowww....”

Jumping, hearing this depressed moan of a meow, Asha saw Charo wrapped in a cloth. Seeing him this way, as he was carried away by someone, she became bitter, not forgiving him for what he had done to Asterix before. She knew he would have been the root cause of this, but before she could say anything about it-!

“Asha! Dahlia!”

It was then she turned and saw approaching them, “Simon!”

As he approached them, he asked, “Are you guys okay?”

Nodding hurriedly, Asha told him, “Yeah we're fine!”

“By some miracle, considering what happened here!” Dahlia chipped in, then gripped her fists and told him urgently, “But Simon, listen! Something big is going on! You don't know what-!”

“Actually, I do!” He smiled.

“Huh?” Asha was baffled.

Simon looked about, bowed his head, and lifted the rim of his green hat a little. Underneath, she saw, much to her surprise and relief, Asterix was there in his bird form, and he waved a wing at her, clearly delighted to see her.

Asha gasped in surprise and smiled joyfully, glad to see he was all right. But quickly, before showing too much emotion, she looked about. Seeing the guards inside and the other people still being attended to, she said, “C'mon, we should all go!”

Having seen the same sight of Asterix's animal form, Dahlia shook herself free from her awe, looked to Asha, and said, “Right!” Then she asked, as Simon pulled his hat back down and stood upright, “Where should we go?”

“To the Arena! We'll have some privacy there,” Asha told them, “Let's go now!”

There were no disagreements, and with that, Dahlia and Simon, along with Asterix hiding under his hat, quickly retreated to the Arena where they could all have a better discussion about what to do next.

X X X X X X X X

Now, within the Arena and in the section where Asha had moved the items she would need for the performance. The three looked together, making sure the coast was clear and seeing it was. Simon took his hat off and said, “Okay, Asterix you can change now.”

“Thanks Simon!” He replied happily, then flew down and landed on the floor. In seconds-!

GLOW!

He transformed again and quickly returned to his human form. Then he looked at everyone, smiled, and said, “I'm glad I can be my whole self around you guys now.”

Asha smiled happily too, relieved that he was safe, but before she could say anything-!

“That's all you have to say about this?” Hearing Dahlia's voice, Asha looked back at her and then heard her say unimpressed, “You're way too relaxed y'know?”

Asha stayed silent, then as Asterix walked up to stand beside her, he asked worriedly, “Is that a bad thing?”

Dahlia didn't answer immediately, but then she sighed and said, “Not exactly, I'm just not used to this level of cheeriness from someone, considering what we're up against now.”

Hearing this, Asha chuckled and replied, “Well, to be honest after us living here all these years, I don't blame you, Dahlia!” Then, looking at her star boy, she continued, “But it's not a bad thing, after all, I'd rather have your smile Asterix then a flood of doom and gloom.”

“True!” Simon agreed, adding, “I think we've all lived within a sea of it long enough.”

Looking at him, Asha nodded and said, “Yeah, that's true...” Then, thinking of what they all surely knew, she asked, “So, now the question remains, how do we make everyone safe and happy again?” Turning to Asterix, she asked him, “How do we return everyone's Lights of Aspiration.”

Quiet himself, Asterix didn't reply immediately. He seemed to be in thought as he finally answered, “That's a good question?” Then, after a moment more, he said, “Well, why don't we have a look at one and see what we can think of?”

Asha nodded and replied, “Yeah, that's a good plan!”

“Wait...?” Hearing Dahlia's voice, as Asterix looked within the depths of his cloak, Asha heard her friend say, startled, “You mean you took one? You took one of Magnifico's wishes?”

Staring at her, Asha then realised the severity of what this meant if they were caught and replied awkwardly, “Uh, yeah, well we actually took three of them!”

Appalled, Dahlia cried, “Three of them!?”

Nodding, Asha replied, “Yeah, my Grandpa's, Levi's and-!”

SHINE!

Within Asterix's right hand, a shining blue orb quickly appeared, and a hopeful golden light shone from within, revealing an image of their once aspiring knight.

As he stared at it, Simon asked in amazement, “You took mine?”

Surprised, he said this, Asterix smiled and replied, “Of course we did!” With that, he passed the precious orb to Asha.

Seeing him do this, she smiled at Asterix and then, with a nod, she turned to Simon and walking over with it, she held it in her hands and explained as the image of his hopeful desires continued to shine, “You're my friend Simon, and I know how painful it's been for you, to not have the strength to reach for your wish and dream.” Then, reaching the orb out to him, she said, “And I've hated that I couldn't do anything for you.”

“Hey! It's not just you!” Dahlia walked over, surprising her. Patting Asha on the back, she smiled and looked at Simon, admitting, “I'm the same, too. I've wanted to always do something about this as well.”

Simon looked astounded and asked, “You both have?”

“Of course!” Asha smiled, “We treasure you Simon, and if there was any way to end your painful loss, we'd both take it no matter what!” She passed the glowing blue orb to her friend's hands.

He held it in amazement, seeing himself as the protector he always wanted to be. He looked back at them, then smiled gratefully and told them, “Guys, thank you!” Then he gulped, looking teary, “Thank you so much!”

“It's okay!” Asha smiled.

“Yeah, now c'mon!” Dahlia replied, wiping a little tear away, “Quit blubbering and see if you can take that light of yours back! Before you turn me into a crybaby too!”

As he heard this, he laughed and replied, “Okay, I'll try!” With that, he gazed at his most precious light, which was supposed to never return. Then, holding it close to his chest tenderly, he said gently, “Please...”

Everyone remained silent, hopeful that maybe, just maybe, this would be enough. That Simon's light would-!

GLOW!

Then, in amazement, they quickly saw the blue light surrounding the golden hopeful shine within it vanish. Immediately, this freed warm, strong glow entered Simon's chest and-!

“Oh!” He gasped loudly, holding himself as he shuddered.

Worried, everyone cried,

“SIMON!”

With that, Asha, Dahlia and Asterix surrounded him. But before they could voice their concerns-!

“It's so warm...” Simon said, opening his eyes. After recovering his breath, he revealed, “Guys, it doesn't hurt anymore!”

Astounded, Asha asked him, smiling, “Really?”

“Yeah!” Simon confirmed, looking at his hands, he said, “I don't feel hollow anymore. I feel strong, way stronger now!”

“Like Hercules strong?” Dahlia asked him, curious.

Silent as she said this, Simon replied with an awkward laugh, “Uh, I wouldn't say to that degree!” However, moving forward, he picked up a particular item that would be used in the performance. With a strong swing, he said, “But I'm definitely strong enough to wield this now!”

Staring at him, Asterix smiled and said, “You've got your prowess back!”

With a nod, he replied, “Yeah, I can feel it! I can do this properly now!”

“I'm so glad!” Asha cried happily, then realised, “And that means we can do it now!”

“Asha?” Asterix asked her, curious.

“We can restore everyone, if we just give them back their lights! They just need to come into contact with them and then...” Feeling relieved, she put her hand to her chest and said, “We can save everyone.”

No one said anything initially, but Asterix replied, “Yeah, you're right!” Then, making it over to Asha, he told her, “This is the real way we can restore everyone's happiness!”

“Yeah!” Asha smiled, then grabbing his hands, she told him, “And it's all thanks to you! Thank you so much, Asterix!”

He was silent, and then he blushed, nodding happily.

Asha couldn't be more ecstatic, but before she could continue-!

“Yeah, but you're forgetting something!”

The happy two turned to Dahlia. Her arms were folded, and she revealed with a serious expression, “We have to get the rest of those lights away from our dear ruler!” Then she looked into the distance at the high tower of the castle and said, “And he's the most powerful magic user here; he won't give them up without a fight.”

She lost her smile, and Asterix became worried as Dahlia continued looking at her, “And from what I know, you've only mastered how many spells, Asha?”

Silent, she looked down and admitted, “...Four.”

Sighing, Dahlia replied, “And obviously, that won't be enough to combat him will it?”

Asha didn't want to answer that. However, Asterix asked, “Are you saying we have no chance?”

“On our own no!” Dahlia declared. But then, moving her glasses up, she revealed, “However, with bigger numbers we could overwhelm him!”

“Bigger numbers?” Simon asked her, puzzled.

“That's right!” Dahlia confirmed, then explained, “We need to reveal the truth to everyone in the Kingdom, get them on side with us then Magnifico along with his Queen won't stand a chance against us all!”

As she said this, Asha stayed silent, wondering how they could do it. When she realised, “The show! We can reveal the truth at the end of our show!”

Pointing at her proudly, Dahlia smirked and confirmed, “Bingo!”

Feeling emboldened by her friend's words, Asha smiled and said, “We have a plan then!”

“A crazy one!” Simon replied. However, with a smile, he said, “But if we're going to save everyone from being turned into horrible monsters, then we've got to use every chance we've got!”

“Agreed!” Asterix replied, and Asha felt him tighten his hold on her hand. As he did, he told them, “I'll help out in whatever way I can for you guys!”

“Thanks, Asterix!” Asha smiled, gripped his hand, and told everyone, “Let's do our best, guys!”

Everyone nodded in unison, and with that, they got the Arena stage ready for the performance. Together, they would all do their best to spread happiness and reveal the dark truth about their magical ruler and his intentions for the people who lived within the Kingdom of Rosa.

(Well, here we go, guys. I succeeded! All the current chapters are here now! If you read it, I hope you enjoy it, see you all next time! ^^)

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

1 note · View note

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 24

(*(Chapter Twenty Four)*)

Quietly listening, currently in his mouse shape, Asterix heard some information from a couple of the castle mice he encountered as he investigated what mysteries lay beneath its impenetrable and pristine white marble-like walls.

“I see,” he replied to them. Then, quiet in thought momentarily, with a paw to his chin, he nodded and said, “Alright! I'll go down until I find that hole and make my way in then!” With that, he ran ahead to continue looking around. But before leaving, he cried back, “Thanks for the information, my friends. Take care today!”

The two mice bid him a friendly farewell as they waved to him; he was glad for their hospitable nature. Then, racing ahead, climbing up and hopping within the castle's crevices, he went to where they mentioned seeing odd lights shining and hearing angry voices, which they hadn't dared to get close to lest they fall victim to the ferocious cat that dwelled within that space.

As he thought of the light they talked about, he couldn't help but hope it might have been Estelle's shine they'd seen. Maybe finally, he'd find something in this place! He couldn't help but become excited at the thought that, finally, he might see her again!

However, while thinking of her, he couldn't help but think of Asha. Remembering he left her with that awful sorcerer, he only hoped that man wasn't being cruel and dismissive to her. She didn't deserve that kind of treatment after all the hard work she'd done to please him and help the people in this land.

GLOW!

Then his thoughts stopped, turning to his left. He finally saw the hole his friendly mouse acquaintances had mentioned. Amazed, he cried, “This is it!” He went straight through it to see what he would discover!

…

Running through it, he quickly discovered he had made it onto a long white arching structure that reached across the room. To him, in his small size, it resembled a bridge, though it was sculpted with lavish floral patterns, revealing that the room belonged to someone with luxurious taste.

This was proven more so by the elaborate golden wheel chandelier ahead of him. He went over to it and saw many little arches resembling towers lined with candles. It reminded him of an enclosing castle wall that held the captive lights in place.

Gazing at them as he looked around, he couldn't help but comment, “Wow! Talk about rich taste!” Then, saying that, he stilled and sniffed the air, catching the whiff of something lovely.

Looking over the edge of the chandelier, he saw a table in the room - a single one piled high with dishes holding countless sweet treats. He could see the sugar on them glittering under the candle's light.

Smelling and gazing at it all with growing hunger, he couldn't help but lick his lips. Then, looking around quickly, he saw no one was around. Moving, he called on his power and-!

GLOW!

He transformed into another shape, a tiny golden bird, and flew down fast. He immediately made it onto the table.

Hopping about it, he was stunned at all the incredible sweet delicacies surrounding him. There were all sorts of confections he'd never seen before. But he recognised some, and seeing one sweet, he whispered, “Have I made it to the cookie carnival?” He had no idea, but feeling tempted by the scrumptious treats around him, he moved and-!

GLOW!

Transformed once more, taking on his mouse persona again, he quickly went to a tower of round rainbow sandwiched-looking confections and looked around again to be sure he was alone. Delighted he still was, he opened his mouth wide to eat one when he remembered,

“You can't just take anything from anywhere! You don't know what it might do to you! You have to be careful! Don't take anything for granted, whether you're from above or not!”

Remembering Asha's warning when he first came down, he realised the mistake he was about to make. Quickly, he pulled back, then shook his head and said, “I don't have time for this! I need to be more careful like Asha told me to!”

Staying firm despite the temptation, he quickly ran to the table's edge and told himself, “I need to find Estelle! I can't waste this chance to-!”

FLASH!

Seeing a fierce and familiar angry blaze of green light, Asterix saw a room further ahead. Its closed doors and surrounding hinges glowed with that chilling radiance.

“That's!” He could feel bad energy emanating from that space. It must have been the place his mousey acquaintances had been talking about. He felt a chill run down his spine. He didn't want to go near there either, but if he had any chance to find his lost sibling, he couldn't let fear drive him away then.

Gulping his apprehension down, he closed his eyes and-!

GLOW!

He again transformed into a bird and flew to the door, looking in and around it. He saw no small cracks or openings that he could use in his winged state. So with a sigh, focusing once more-!

GLOW!

He returned to his mouse form, pushing himself to squeeze under the narrow underside of the door.

Tugging himself through, though it was a tight squeeze, his small, flexible frame made it through and he found his way into the foreboding room.

Getting out from underneath, he stretched out and jostled, regaining some comfort when-!

“Just you wait...!”

Jumping at the sound of this older feminine voice, he felt the rage burning within its tone. It almost made him step back, but he stopped himself. He had to be brave, for Estelle and Asha – he and she needed their answers! So, he quickly moved from the door and cautiously entered the room.

Turning a corner, he saw what seemed to be a study room. Its walls were covered head to toe with bookshelves containing many mysterious-looking tomes. The space was foreboding, though, for it was cast into shadows since there were no windows, and as a small mouse, he couldn't read the titles on their darkened spines.

As he ventured further in, it felt oppressive and dismal. He didn't want to be there. The dark energy in this room was awful. It wasn't meant for beings of pure joy like him or normal humans. They should never come close to it!

“You're all going to perfectly be subservient soon!”

Recoiling, hearing that voice again, Asterix stopped. He turned once more, shaking, then pushing himself forward again. He reached the end of the corridor of bookshelves, and, peering cautiously around the corner, he saw-!

FLASH!

That awful green glow again, emanating from an enormous sinister crystal ball and standing before it, was the woman whose voice he'd heard before, with her hands hovering over it, as she conducted her magical observations.

She was an older woman, perhaps a little younger than Magnifico. In the green light of the dark magic, he saw her dressed in an elegant white dress with similar-coloured trailing veils behind her.

Donned in a gold crown, with her long brown hair plaited into a stylish ponytail trailing over her right shoulder, the beauty she shone with was awfully contrasting. Though she was dressed in the purest white and the calmest of blues, her expression was anything but serene. She looked disgusted as she gazed at an image revealed within the crystal ball.

Getting closer, praying his tiny golden glow didn't betray his presence, Asterix nestled himself behind a pile of books. Quietly, he continued to observe this mysterious crowned woman.

“Meow...”

Freezing, hearing that familiar and awful feline tone. Asterix saw to his dread the terrible cat who'd hurt him before. His name was-!

“Yes, Charo, I know! I know!” the woman cooed, petting him gently with one hand as he sat about her shoulders. As she did this, the cat rubbed himself into her touch, and she continued, “I'm bored of waiting too.”

Staring at them, Asterix felt really uneasy, for he knew now he was in the presence of the Queen of that land after remembering what Asha had talked about with him. The two before Asterix were the most dangerous that he could encounter, as he sensed the dangerous dark magic. Watching as the Queen continued her sinister magical art, Asterix thought back to before with Charo when he'd got him when he was a duck. If he got him this time as a mouse-!

Shaking, he didn't want to think about it! His instincts were begging him to leave and get out of that place. But his mission took priority. He needed to find answers for himself and Asha about what-!

“But don't worry, soon we will begin!” With those words, the Queen smiled sinisterly and then, rolling her hands around the crystal ball, she began to conjure a swirling green of light.

Staring at it, Asterix realised it was illusion magic! This woman, she was the one who-!

“Our conquest of the lands!” With that, the image he saw was that of the peaceful faraway shore he'd observed while waiting for his chance to reach Rosa.

Seeing the tranquil seaside town and other hamlets there, he saw the image change, as with a wave. Amaya revealed their intentions as the entire landscape was bathed in fire, the once blue, peaceful skies replaced by terrible darkness, and sinister shadowed war boats occupied the now blackened sea.

He shuddered at the horrible sight, but he covered his mouth. Not letting his gasp escape through his paws. He couldn't believe it, these people wanted war when-!

“We're going to make them pay! Each and every single one of them!” The Queen spat angrily.

Silent, Asterix listened on, desperate to hear all the information he could.

“Those fools living in ignorance and peace, who isolated us here on this island with terror all these years!” Her fingers, when looking at them, reminded Asterix of tensing talons as she continued, “We're going to take everything from you that you stole from us!”

Baffled by this, Asterix was confused. What on earth could have been stolen from them that warranted this when they lived in such luxury?

“And then, we'll never lose anything ever again! It'll be ours forever!” Amaya chuckled amusedly as the image changed again. Looking at it, Asterix recognised more in the imagery.

Other lands within the Mediterranean realms all shared the same fiery and awful terror that the near shore would soon suffer if these fiends succeeded. However, this time, instead of warships, he saw troops of monstrous shadowed people, all featureless with nothing but cold and ruthless glowing blue eyes clad in indomitable armour.

Seeing this chilled Asterix to the core, for what was that? Were they monsters or-?

“Because now we have the means to make the perfect and obedient soldiers, am I right Jensen?” The Queen asked, turning to one dark corner of the room.

Staring at the spot she was looking at, Asterix saw someone step forth out of the darkness. As he did, he saw a person, a young man with blonde curly hair tied into a messy ponytail. He looked to be a soldier of some kind. Then, looking at him after a little more squinting, he quickly recognised him, the jolly guard who had arrived when Asha had been stopped in the city!

However, the cheery disposition he once held was gone. Instead, he exuded an awful miasma that escaped as wisps of dreadful shadows everywhere, with a glare in his glowing icy blue eyes. With shock, Asterix realised it was the same glow as the illusion's shadows. This would mean-!

“Yes, my lady!” Listening with shock, Asterix then heard a voice. It wasn't the same as before; it was icy and terrifying as he decreed, “All obstacles in both your paths, will be-!”

GLOOM!

Horrified, Asterix saw shadows morph themselves out of Jensen's body. They swarmed around his arm, forming a solid, dangerous-looking sharp blade extending from his forearm, completely replacing his hand!

Then, in seconds, the rest of the terrible tendrils writhed around him, forming an impenetrable scaly-like armour that quickly covered his entire body and masked away his face, leaving no features that revealed individuality. He then declared, “Utterly annihilated!”

He'd become exactly the same as what was in the horrifying illusion of war! This couldn't be real.

The Queen, seeing his transformation and hearing his declaration, smirked and replied, “Excellent!” Then, looking at her crystal ball again, she wiped away the hellish illusion and sighed, seeing the same peaceful green landscape again, “If only we could find our Star Child, we could proceed immediately and invade tomorrow if we wanted!”

Hearing those words, Asterix had no idea why he was needed for this frightful scenario to happen. But he knew he couldn't let them get their hands on him; he'd heard enough. He needed to get back to Asha fast. He turned to go when-!

“It's just too bad.” He stopped, then looked at the Queen again. He heard her then say, putting a free hand onto a pearly necklace he hadn't noticed, “If only there was even a little more left of my Grandmother's prior, we might have been able to do something already.”

He didn't understand what she meant but looked at her fingers as they stroked the star pendant in the middle. He froze, recognising its shape and design.

Curiosity now eating at him, he ventured as close as he dared and got a better look, standing behind the legs of a green cushioned and white chair in the room. It looked exactly like the one he'd given to his precious Sister so long ago. When they'd celebrated a special birthday together, they'd exchanged gifts, and at that time, she'd given him his starry golden earring with a blue jewel in it while he had given her a necklace that held a red jewel. So, a tiny part of them would always be with each other.

He couldn't believe it! Seeing the red jewel of it shine in the light, he feared he'd never see that glow again! But there was no mistaking it; it was hers! Though the star's gold had been replaced by a terrible black colour, the soft, warm light it glowed with couldn't have been anything other than the gift he'd given her so long ago. Breathlessly, he uttered, “Estelle!”

“WHO'S THERE!?”

“Agh!” To his horror, the terrible possessed Jensen had heard his tiny whisper. Shaking, there was no time to hesitate. He had to run now!

“Someone's here!?” The Queen cried, but before there could be a response-!

SLASH!!!

GLOW!

“Whoa!”

Asterix barely transformed in time into a tiny golden bird, as his light shone in the dark, as the chair was cleaved clean in half. He saw the Queen looking up at him in shock while in her arms,

“MMMRRROOOAAA!!!”

Charo revealed his rage at his intrusion!

The Queen then cried, “You!?”

He didn't stay and quickly flew to the door around the corner. Fluttering to the ground, he moved to transform again when-!

“STAR CHILD!!!!”

Hearing this chilling cry, Asterix moved fast, concentrated and-!

GLOW!

He returned to his mouse form once again, crawling out from under the door. He moved fast! Getting out from underneath barely in seconds, he quickly ran forward-!

SLITHER! SLITHER! SLITHER!

SLITHER! SLITHER!

“Ah!” Looking behind himself in horror, just missing getting caught. He saw a mass of slithering, dark, shadowy appendages, all desperately squirming to escape from under the hinges and grasp him!

Shivering, he didn't hesitate, running fast, he concentrated again and-!

GLOW!

He transformed into a bird, flying high to reach the hole in the fancy ceiling work. As he moved, though, he heard-!

“RETURN AT ONCE!!!!”

That hateful voice of the Queen, she looked at him with such rage that he shook as he flew. But Asterix didn't falter; he scrambled up and dived down hurriedly; he tumbled as he landed on the arch above, and then-!

GLOW!

He again transformed into a mouse to escape when-!

“STAR CHILD!!!!”

He heard Jensen's awful, haunting voice, and despite the room's light, the possessed soldier rushed fast to chase after him. Standing under his position, his bladed arm extended out, turning into a swarming limb of shadows that twisted and writhed countlessly. Then, it twisted upward to his position, coming straight after him!

“Whoa!” Panicked, he dove straight into the hole to escape, but behind him-!

SLITHER! SLITHER! SLITHER!

SLITHER! SLITHER!

Those horrible shadows came after him to ensnare him, but moving fast with his swift agility, he leapt back and rushed away to escape! Looking behind, he saw, to his relief, that the monstrous man's shadows couldn't reach further into his escape route.

Glad for his good luck, his heart rushed with panic and anxiety as he escaped those chambers and went to alert Asha about what was happening within this sinister castle!

X X X X X X X X

Amaya stood silent and tense. Unable to contain her excitement, she asked her shadowed cohort, “Have you done it? Did you get him!?”

Jensen remained silent. Then he called his shadowed limb back and finally replied, as it became normal again, “No, it's escaped!”

“Again!?” She cried, outraged. She couldn't stand this anymore! She gritted her teeth and decreed, “It's not getting away from us this time!” Charo then jumped out of her arms and she headed straight for the door. Doing this, she shouted, “GUARDS! I NEED GUARDS!”

Immediately, hurried footsteps were heard far away down the corridor. Hearing them, Amaya turned and demanded, “Turn back to your former self and hide your shadows!”

The possessed Jensen stared at her momentarily, then silently-!

VOOM...

His dark miasma and armour that'd covered him faded, revealing his normal state. Even the chilling blue from his eyes was gone, though his expression was apathetic and cold compared to his original state.

Somewhat satisfied, Amaya asked, “Will you be able to find it as you are?”

The possessed man looked over himself and then back at her and replied, “It will be difficult if I have to in the sunlight; I'll be held back by the constraints of this body,” Then it looked to the window that shone and added, “Until sunset, I won't be at full strength, and I won't be able to rely upon the strength of my fellow Lividus to assist me.”

Embittered, Amaya spat, “Oh, marvellous! That's just what we need isn't it!”

Even Charo growled with dissatisfaction as he stood by her side, then-!

“Your Majesty!? You called!”

Then, a small group of the guards arrived, led by one she thought she remembered as, “Nicholas, is it?”

The dark-haired man blinked and replied, “Oh, no your Majesty. It's Christopher! We came as soon as we heard your summons!”

She didn't care, and she was unimpressed by their so-called speed. She replied, “Well, you could have done better!” Then, as he and the other few guards looked at her stunned, she commanded, “Now go! Get them!”

Blinking, Christopher asked, “Um, get... them?”

“My Star-!” However, quickly remembering, Amaya coughed and quickly corrected herself, saying, “Get the Kobalos! It's here in the castle!”

He looked baffled and replied, “It is?” Then, looking at the other guards, Nicholas saw his other comrades look clueless. He looked back at her and said, “Um, but we were getting ready to investigate the cottage in the forest; his Majesty Magnifico told us to-!”

“Things have changed!” she cried, angered that he had the nerve to question her. “Go and tell him, and get that Kobalos NOW!!!”

As she shouted this furiously, Nicholas and the guards stood to attention with salutes before Nicholas replied, “Uh, yeah! Sorry! Sorry your Majesty! We'll do just that, we'll get Captain Lawrence and-!”

Then, with an enraged glare from her, the terrified men scrambled over themselves to obey and ran away down the corridor!

Gritting her teeth, Amaya clenched her hands tight. She was barely keeping her rage in check anymore. “Oh, they're hopeless! A disgrace!” With that, she sighed with irritation at their clumsy incompetence.

“I'll go too!”

The possessed Jensen walked beside her and declared, “I will hunt down the Star Child!”

Quiet, she then replied, “See that you do! Do not disappoint us!”

He nodded and then took off running and disappeared after the other guardsmen.

Seeing him go, she remained silent, then-!

“Meow...”

Hearing her beloved pet, she looked down at him. Her rage eased away, and she uttered, “Oh, Charo!” Then, lowering down, she took him in her arms. Seeking comfort from his soft shape, she asked, “Will our wish ever come true?” Then, with tears lining her eyes, she continued, “Can we ever get our vengeance?”

He looked at her sadly and nestled further into her embrace as he tried to ease her burden. She was so grateful for this silent comfort and stroked him in return, hoping and praying that someone in this castle would succeed for her!

X X X X X X X X

“And together with you!

We'll dazzle the world!

So dance with me, my light!

So all will become wonderful and bright!”

GLOW!!!

Within Asha's hands, the light she imagined quickly into life throbbed with a warm and gentle pulse. This light quickly made the darkness that Magnifico had bathed them in disappear, revealing his complete form - something she hadn't been able to do before.

Feeling excited at this, despite being nervous, she asked, “...So what do you think my Lord, are you impressed?”

Magnifico stood a small distance away from her, arms folded. Looking at him, her smile quickly vanished as he replied sternly, “You still didn't use any Latin, did you?”

Stilling, she lowered her gaze and replied, looking at the light in her hands, “...No, I didn't.” However, remembering Asterix's words, she didn't allow herself to become disheartened and replied, “But I still did it! I managed to conjure light magic, so-!”

“That doesn't matter!” Magnifico interrupted. Then, walking over to her, he continued, “I admit you've revealed you can perform the arts; that is impressive, I will not deny.”

Unsure he was complimenting her, Asha felt uneasy and responded, “But... there's something wrong, right?”

“Correct!” Magnifico confirmed, making her shiver. Then he continued with a question and a critical eye: “Now, answer me. What are you?”

Feeling a shudder as he asked this of her, Asha, cradling the light in her hands, replied sadly after some thought, “...Your Apprentice.”

“Good!” he replied, then stood before her and continued, “And as MY Apprentice, I expect you to perform and conjure magic, MY way!”

Her eyes couldn't meet his, and she listened to him add, “If you can't, there's no chance for you.” Then, turning his back as he looked at his leather-clad tome again, he added, “Magic can only be performed supremely one way.”

Hearing him say this, Asha stayed quiet. Thinking of the last few days she'd been with Asterix and all the fun they had together, she couldn't help but say, “Maybe... you're right?”

“Hm?” His curiosity was peaked as he turned around and repeated, “Maybe?”

With a nod, Asha clarified, “Yeah, your way might be the way to make magic supreme.” But holding the light in her hands close to her chest tenderly, she continued gazing at him with conviction, “But, it's not the only shape it can take, it has countless forms it can become.” Then, with a shake of her head, she added, “It doesn't need to be supreme to matter.”

He stilled, then asked her, “Are you saying my way is wrong?”

Clutching the warm living light closely, she breathed in, strengthening herself, “No, but I've never wanted to be supreme with magic.” Looking at the light in her hands, she continued, thinking of all the fun and warm moments she shared with Asterix and her loved ones, “I've just wanted to perform well enough, that I can be of help to others, to brighten everyone's day, somehow...” Then, holding the light close to herself, thinking of her precious star boy, she revealed, closing her eyes with a smile, “To bring a smile to people's faces, so we all may be happy.”

Magnifico said nothing to this.

Feeling the silence, Asha opened her eyes, and he looked at her with an expression she never thought he would show. He was stunned, his book hand lowered.

Surprised, Asha asked him, “Isn't that what you learned magic for my Lord? To help and aid others?”

He stayed silent, then, with a sigh, he replied, “I admit it; once upon a time, that is probably the reason why I began practising it.” Then, looking down at his tome, he stroked its cover solemnly and continued, “However, I had to give up such light-hearted views.”

Shocked, Asha asked him, “Why?”

He looked back at her and replied, “Because the world is cruel, Asha.” Gazing at her, he continued, “A long time ago, I lost everything and everyone I cherished, other than Amaya on my most precious day.” Closing his eyes, he added, “We were the only ones who survived a horrible tragedy, brought on by the wrath of others...”

Silent, Asha realised what it must have been, “The Zodiac War?”

A nod came in answer, “Yes, and since that time, I can no longer be soft with the art like I once was.” Then, gripping the cover, he told her, “People will take advantage of you, whenever you're at your weakest,” He concluded as he looked out at the faraway sea in the distance, “Other people cannot be trusted, you must always be superior and better in some way, otherwise you're finished.” He then gripped the book tightly, his nails digging into its leather.

Asha became shocked and looked down. She couldn't deny it; she felt the pain and hurt; it was real. It wasn't a lie, but that illusion spell that was cast last night. She had to know more, so cautiously, she asked, “And you think there's no way people can change?”

Looking at her, he snickered and asked, “How can they?” Then, looking to the window again, he continued, “Aggression is the only response they will ever give.”

Stilling, remembering what she had discovered last night, Asha replied, “...But what if it subsides?” Magnifico looked back at her silently, and she continued, “Not all people want to be angry forever! That's such a venomous and awful way to be, there's more to life than rage.”

“Such as?”

As he asked this of her, Asha, still holding her magical light close, replied softly smiling, “Love, and happiness, being together with those you cherish... I think deep down that's what matters more to people. No one wants to stay hurt and angry forever.”

Again, he snickered and replied, “That's a sweet notion.” However, with critical eyes, he added, “But wholly naïve!” With that, he told her as he approached, “People are only positive, so long as they are content.”

Feeling his shadow tower over her, Asha couldn't help but shiver as he said, “All it takes is one gust of discomfort, and the peaceful house of cards will all tumble; they forget all about that positivity in a heartbeat, that never changes.”

Hearing him say this so coldly, Asha almost couldn't speak. However, remembering what she'd been through over the last few days, she told him the truth and realised, “I disagree.”

Magnifico remained still, then with a chilling smile, he asked, “Oh, do you?”

With a nod, Asha replied, “Yeah! Because I think people can change!” Then she continued, “I should know, I've managed to these last few days and others I know too, true it's hard and painful, but if you just try to believe! I know people can shine with happiness again and get along, if you give them a chance then-!”

“Too much of a threat!” he replied, stopping her. Then he continued, with narrowed, displeased eyes, “People are chaotic and too unpredictable; I can never take any chances on them.” Then Asha saw him tighten his grip on his book more as he finished, “Not ever!”

Asha could feel his cold, cynical resolve regarding people. Her warm image of him in her mind began to crumble. But before she could think of anything-

“But I have to say...” As he put his hand to his chin in thought, she heard, “You've never been this forthright before?” Then, stilling, he couldn't help but ask further, “Nor have you ever expressed an interest in changing your style of magic, I wonder what's brought this on all of a sudden?”

As he asked this of her, Asha remained quiet for a moment. Before she honestly replied, “Well, I...I met someone.”

“Someone?” Magnifico repeated curiously.

With a nod, Asha replied, “Yeah, someone...” Then, clutching her warm light again, she smiled and said, “Someone really special, who's really lit up my world.”

Magnifico was silent, but then a curious smile graced his face as he asked, “Oh, really?” Then, as he said this, Asha looked up at him and heard him say, “Do tell, who are they?”

Stilling, Asha felt somehow she said the wrong thing. Her mind rushed, and she replied, “Oh, well! Um...” Thinking hard, she said, “Someone who's recently arrived here in Rosa! He, he taught me a new way of thinking and has been helping me at home, looking after my Grandpa and Valentino! He-!”

“Valentino!?” Magnifico cried, shocked.

Baffled and jumping back at his sudden loud cry, Asha replied, “Uh, yeah?”

Magnifico then demanded, “Who's Valentino!?”

With a shiver, Asha replied, “Uh, him? He, he's my young pet goat.”

He looked at her in disbelief, Asha didn't know what had caused this. Then, quickly, she saw his expression change from shock. He eventually released a chuckle and gained a sinister smug grin as he replied, “Oh, I see... so that's how it is?”

“Huh? How's what?” Asha uttered, confused.

His sinister grin grew. As he approached Asha, he said, “I think I've found something I've been looking for, for a while now!” Reaching a hand towards her, he said, “But just to be sure!”

With that shocking Asha, he held one of her long braids and brought it to his nose. He inhaled her scent, and with alarm, she cried, “My Lord?!”

Magnifico didn't reply immediately. Instead, after a moment of silence, he revealed what he found: “Lavender...” Then he asked her, with a sinister look in his eye, “I take it this is a favourite scent of yours?”

Asha didn't know what to say. Then she said, “Uh, yeah, I use it a lot at home, why?”

Smirking, Magnifico told her, “Oh, well, you see, Asha, I think you've just become my new favourite person!” Asha felt awful trepidation as she heard him continue, “Now? I'm going to need to ask you about-?”

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Your Majesty! Your Majesty!”

Magnifico immediately soured and uttered, dropping Asha's long lock, “Urgh! What is it this time!”

At the sound of Captain Lawrence's return, Asha couldn't help but feel relief. Then she watched Magnifico go to the doors, and as he did, she heard him say with a smirk, “Don't go away now!” With that, he closed the doors behind him.

Seeing him leave, Asha felt like her worried heart would give way. As the light vanished and she held her chest, she asked, “Just what was he-!”

“Asha! Asha!”

Hearing his urgent voice, the terrified Apprentice saw that appearing out of the hole he had disappeared into was none other than, “Asterix!?”

As he rushed over in his mouse form, he closed his eyes and-!

GLOW!

He transformed into his normal blonde human form again, flew straight toward her and-!

“Whoa!?”

HUG!

He wrapped his arms around her! Shocked by this, she was about to ask what was wrong when she heard, “You're okay! Thank goodness you're okay!”

Stunned, she uttered, “Asterix?”

Then, moving back from her, he looked over her up and down and asked, “Are you hurt? Did he do anything to you!?”

Momentarily silent, she replied, “No, no! I'm fine!” Then, reaching his face, she asked, “What about you? What's wrong? What did you find out?”

“I'm fine, but...” He looked awfully anxious as he told her, “Asha it's horrible!”

“What is?” She asked, her heart filled with fear as she lowered her hand.

“The Queen, this Magnifico guy! They're going to war!” Asterix proclaimed.

Horrified, Asha repeated, “War?”

Nodding urgently, Asterix continued, “I saw her! The Queen, she was viewing an awful image in a crystal ball! They wish to cause war! They want to conquer lands in the Mediterranean!”

Asha's eyes widened in terror. Shaking, she uttered, “It can't be!”

“It is!” he told her, then, with a hand to his crystal heart, he added, “And they're being helped by this dark creature. It's possessed one of the guards! Jensen, it's using his body!”

“Possessed?” Asha asked, now really terrified, she had to know, “By what?”

Shaking his head, Asterix replied, “I don't know!” Then he tensed his hands on her shoulders and said, looking down in thought, “Dark spirits normally can't do that! Not unless you're high ranking like a demon or something, but it definitely didn't feel like that! It shouldn't be possible unless...”

As he paused, Asha asked him fretfully, “Unless what?”

Asterix then revealed the reason as he shivered, “Unless the person is weakened somehow?”

“Weakened?” Asha repeated, and then the answer came to her fast. She realised, “Could losing a wish cause something like that?”

As she said this, Asterix asked her, “A wish?”

Nodding, she replied, “Yeah, that could be it! With his wish gone from his heart, it must have made him more vulnerable to be taken over!” With that, she looked up to where everyone's captive desires lay, floating above them all.

Then, Asterix looked up, seeing the people of Rosa's wishes. Shining in the blue orbs that floated above them, like countless peaceful bubbles of glimmering dreams.

Seeing them, Asha was still. But then she watched Asterix float on up. As he did, he asked her, “Are these them?”

She nodded her answer nervously.

As she did this, Asterix urgently looked from orb to orb. Then, quickly, he froze and became shocked. Asha asked him worriedly, “Asterix what's wrong?”

He remained quiet before he turned down to her and said, “Asha, these lights, these wishes... these aren't what they are!”

Feeling her heart stop, Asha asked him, “They aren't?” As he shook his head, she asked, “Then what are they?”

Floating down with one fast, Asha saw, to her amazement, that Asterix had found her Grandfather's! As he did, he then revealed, “Asha! These are people's Lights of Aspiration!”

Stunned, Asha couldn't believe it. She didn't understand and enquired, “Lights of Aspiration? What does that mean?”

Looking at her, he was still in thought momentarily before answering, “The Light of Aspiration is what shines in a person with the strong desire to achieve something, that requires determination and effort.”

He then looked at the imagery of the blue orb with Asha. As they did, they saw her Grandfather playing his mandolin happily amongst a group of people. As they did, he continued, “This light is what gives them the strength to attempt to reach for those desires they hold dearly. Without it, eventually they're unable to... it hurts, leaving a gaping hole inside.”

Listening to his explanation, Asha asked, “So it's not the same as a wish?”

With a shake of his head, Asterix told her, “No, it's the light that helps you reach for what you desire most, a wish is usually just one desire that doesn't change, but the Light of Aspiration-!”

GLOW

Then, in amazement, both she and he saw the imagery in the blue orb change. Instead of her Grandfather just playing for people, younger individuals were playing mandolins with him, showing that his previous most sought-after desire had changed.

Watching this with awe, Asha, despite the terror, couldn't help but feel her heart warm at the change her Grandfather was able to make now.

As she smiled, Asterix did too, as he told her, “As you see it moves and changes with you, as the desires you wish to achieve evolve with time.” Then, as she looked back at him, he added, “It's this kind of light that lets my people come to exist.”

“I see...” Asha replied. Sadly, she then thought of all the pain that had been mentioned by her Grandfather, Levi, and Simon. Trying to achieve what made them so happy, looking at this precious light that could help one change, she said, “This is why everyone's so miserable. They're lacking the strength to achieve their dreams now. They can't do it anymore!”

Nodding, Asterix told her, “That's right!”

Realising this, Asha became determined and said, “We have to give them back!” Then, looking at all the blue lights that shone over them, she added, “We have to give them back their strength, so they can live again properly and be happy!”

“Yeah, we do!” Asterix agreed.

“Would they be safe from the dark spirits then?” She asked him.

Nodding, he told her, “Yeah, I'm sure they would because they'd be complete again!” However, as they both looked at all the 'wishes' shining above them, one problem remained: “But how can we return all these lights?”

Looking at him, she asked desperately, “Don't you have the power to do that?”

“No, I don't! I don't have that kind of power!” Then, seeing them all glow above them, “I could probably carry five at max with me, if I shrunk them, but...”

“That won't be enough, then!” Asha stilled with growing worry, shivering, imagining the dark spirit he encountered. She said, “And without these, everyone could be taken over and used!” But then, looking at the light that was her Grandfather's, she realised, “We can't defeat Magnifico on our own!” Looking at Asterix, she said, “We'll need help!”

“From who?” Asterix enquired.

Asha stilled, thinking of what Magnifico had said before. That other people were untrustworthy and not worth believing in, she wanted to prove to him otherwise. “Our friends!”

Surprised, Asterix asked her, “Dahlia and Simon?”

Nodding, she then explained, “Yeah! I'm sure Dahlia could cook up something! And Simon too, if he got his light back, I'm sure he'd be more than willing to help us! Grandpa and Levi too! We could all do something to-!”

“Yes, yes very good!”

Spooked, Asha and Asterix heard Magnifico. It sounded like he was finishing his conversation with Captain Lawrence!

Realising time was of the essence, Asha told him, “Asterix, go and find everyone's lights! Hurry!”

At her request, he looked startled. But then he nodded, quickly rushed up into the air, looked around each floating blue orb, and then, as if by instinct, quickly picked up two new spheres.

Arriving back down, he held each one carefully and told her, “Here they are Asha!”

Looking through them, the worried magical Apprentice saw that in each one, there indeed were the two other people she cherished: Levi holding a paintbrush, creating a masterpiece, and Simon, wielding a sword and shield in proud determination.

Glad to see them, Asha smiled despite their dangerous situation and said, “Fantastic! Well done Asterix!”

He nodded pleased, then asked her, “What do we do now?”

“You go and hide somewhere and take these with you!” she told him, handing her Grandfather's light.

Having it float between his hand and his magic, Asterix was quiet before asking her, “You're not going to come with me?”

Shaking her head, Asha told him, “I can't! Otherwise Lord-!” Then, correcting herself, she said, “Magnifico will realise something's wrong! He'll have everyone coming after us, especially if he discovers three of his precious wishes are gone!”

“But! You'll be in danger! I can't leave you to-!”

Asha then pressed a finger to his lips and said, with a sad smile, “We've got to do it this way! There's no other choice!” He looked ready to argue as she pulled her hand away. However, she told him, “Asterix, trust me! I can get myself away from here, you don't need to worry, okay?”

He looked troubled, then asked, “Are you sure you will be?”

She nodded with determination, then-!

“Alright! That'll be all!”

The door was beginning to open. Magnifico was coming back!

“Asterix please!” She told him worriedly.

Her star boy looked torn, wanting to say something more. However, with a firm nod, he quickly moved the three orbs, and with his magic, they decreased in size. He held them within the depths of his magical orange cloak. Then, he headed back towards the small hole again, and-!

GLOW!

He returned to his mouse shape and told her, “Asha, please be careful!”

“I will! You do the same!” she told him. He nodded, and he was on his way, escaping the chamber.

In the meantime, Asha acted fast and hoped that the little act she would do now would be enough to get her out of that space!

X X X X X X X X

Captain Lawrence looked baffled by Magnifico's response to his news and asked, “You're not upset your Majesty?”

“Why would I be?” He smiled and added calmly, “I have everything under control now, so there's no need for you to fret.”

“Oh?” he uttered, surprised. Then, with a small smile, he replied, “Well, that's good!” Then he enquired, “So what should we do about the Kobalos? Should we-?”

“Keep an eye out for it of course!” Magnifico replied, then revealed, “But I will require your assistance soon!”

“For what, Sir?” Captain Lawrence asked.

“You'll see!” Magnifico replied, then he began opening the doors and said, “Now be off! I'll call you when I need you next!”

“Oh, yes! Of course!” Captain Lawrence replied, and with that, he began to walk on his way. But then he stopped and asked, worried, “But might I ask, Sir? What's become of Jensen? I haven't seen him back in the barracks for a while and-!”

“Alright! That'll be all!” Magnifico replied, uninterested in giving him any explanation. Then he closed the doors behind him and, staying silent momentarily as he lay against them, finally heard the Captain be on his way.

Clapping his hands together, Magnifico rubbed his palms, pleased and said, “Now, Asha! How about we get back to our conversation? I'd very much like to hear-!”

“Um, sorry!”

“Huh?!” Perplexing him, suddenly Asha ran up to him dressed in her blue cloak with her book bag over her shoulder.

As she did this so suddenly, Magnifico was about to demand what she was doing when he heard her explain hurriedly, making her way past him, “I need to eat now! Lord Magnifico!” Then she put her hands on the doors and continued with a strained smile, “And I need to get things ready for the show tonight, could you excuse me as I get everything ready?”

Silent as he heard this, Magnifico then studied her.

There was a moment of awkward silence between them. Asha looked nervous as she asked, “Um, that is alright, I hope?”

Magnifico continued his silence momentarily before smirking and telling her, “Oh, but of course! Feel free!”

She then sighed in relief. As she did this and began to open the doors, Magnifico said, “And if you do well in the performance tonight...?”

She stopped and then looked at him, puzzled.

Seeing her do this, he said confidently, “You'll be my Apprentice, permanently, correct?”

She stilled, and then her strained smile became more uncomfortable as she replied, “Oh, yeah of course! If I make everyone smile...right?”

“That was the deal!” he agreed and told her, smiling widely, “Good luck, Asha!”

She nodded and quickly opened the doors. She hurriedly moved to escape him, and as she did, she cried, “Oh, your Majesty!” Amaya had arrived at the wish chamber.

Surprised to see her, Magnifico listened as Asha said, “Please, excuse me!” With that, she pulled the door fully back for her, letting the white-gowned woman into the wish chamber.

“I will,” Amaya replied. However, as she made it inside and Asha was about to finally leave this time, when she told her, with angered narrowed eyes, “But only for the moment. Now leave!”

Asha cowered under her critical gaze, and she quickly was gone!

Hearing her footsteps fade into the distance, Magnifico couldn't help but smile at her cowering.

“Dear!”

His attention was quickly returned to Amaya, and looking agitated, she said, “Listen to me! The Star Child is here! They're in the castle with us! We must move now to-!”

“There's no need for that!” Magnifico told her confidently. She looked at him silently, baffled, but then, moving closer, he put his hands on her shoulders and revealed, “I've found our Star Child's Aspirer!”

Silent with wide eyes, she cried, amazed, “You mean it?!”

“I do!” He smiled, then looked to where Asha had escaped. He declared, “We will catch our sought-after prize tonight!” With that, they began to scheme how to ensnare their Star Child!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 23

(*(Chapter Twenty Three)*)

“Hmm...” Stirring, Magnifico finally awakened. This time, looking out to the balcony, he saw the rays of the warm sun shining through the veiled curtains. As he did, stifling a yawn and seeing the rich oranges of the dawning sun, he smiled and said, “What a good morning!”

GLOOM!

Then, hearing the familiar sound of a Lividus entering their room, he turned and saw that in a dark corner of their bed chambers, a single one was waiting patiently for him as it avoided the orange radiance of the new day.

Smirking confidently at its arrival, he added as he donned his dressing gown, “And it looks like it's about to get better!”

“Mmm...” Hearing a pleasant murmur, Magnifico turned and saw his beloved was stirring. Pleased to see this, he stroked her cheek gently and told her happily, “Wake up dear, we have news!”

Her face scrunched with annoyance temporarily, but as her brown eyes opened and focused on him, her face softened with a smile as she asked, “Is it good news?”

“I'm about to find out!” he told her, smiling. Then he kissed her cheek before moving and getting off the bed. Dusting himself momentarily, he looked back at her and saw her sitting up while yawning, with Charo coming over to her and rubbing himself against her sleepy form as she stretched.

Smiling at this scene, he saw her take their feline into her arms before he approached the Lividus. Making it over to the dark eldritch spirit as its form swayed in shadow, he said with a hand resting on his chest, “Greetings my Lividus!”

“Good morrow!”

It replied with a slight bow.

Pleased by the greeting, Magnifico asked, “So, tell me the good news!”

…

It remained still, pausing in its bow. Then, as it lifted itself to look at him, Magnifico waited for the desired answer. However, it was quickly dashed!

“There is none.”

Stilling in shock, he uttered, losing his smile, “What?”

“We were not successful, we did not acquire the Star Child.”

The good energy had fled entirely. He couldn't believe it and demanded, “WHAT!? WHAT DO YOU MEAN!?”

At his shout, he then heard the patter of hurried feet, but he didn't bother to turn around as he again listened to the Lividus, who revealed,

“We could not, its concealed itself into a domain we could not tolerate entering.”

Outraged, Magnifico was angrily about to demand a better explanation when-!

“What on earth would deter you to that extent?!”

Turning to look behind, he saw Amaya had joined them. She looked as appalled as he was as she held an angry Charo.

“Lavender.”

Hearing the answer, looking back at their contracted spirit. He repeated sceptically, “Lavender?”

“Yes, one of the appalling perennial plants that you humans obsess over! The cottage we found it hiding in was overwhelming with the stench of it!”

Hearing this, Magnifico was quietly irritated. He knew dark spirits found specific blooms and trees abhorrent, but to have a whole-! Then he stopped when he realised what the spirit had revealed: “Wait! Cottage, you found it in a cottage!?”

The dark spirit nodded, and then he and his wife heard it explain,

“Yes, one in a small human habitation on a high hill within the depths of the forest!”

As this information was given to him, Magnifico asked, “So that's where it is!” With this information, he strode forward toward the doors to their bed chamber with a new purpose and told the spirit determinedly as it followed after him, “Tell me every detail about that place, I want no mistakes made this time in capturing it!”

The spirit nodded and then approached close enough to whisper into his ear. However, before it began, he heard, “Just you wait!”

Looking to his side, he saw Amaya clutching her necklace in her hands. As she did this, hiding away the red-gemmed and dark-coloured star in her tightening palms, she said spitefully, “We'll get you soon!”

Hearing her words, he nodded as he burned with the same outrage, saying, “We will!” With that, they descended the stairs, and he listened to all the details the Lividus had to give about the Star Child's chosen hiding place...

X X X X X X X X

“Right, okay...” Sighing, after finishing the last of her tea, Asha then said, “I better get ready to go!” With that, she pushed herself away from the table.

As she said this, her Grandfather, nearly done with his breakfast, asked, “Are you alright, pumpkin?”

Hearing him, as she gathered her dirty plate and used cup, she replied with a troubled smile, “Well, honestly! I'm nervous.” Then gulping, thinking of what she would get up to, she admitted, “Cross that, I'm really, really, really nervous!”

“Oh, dear!” He uttered, looking worried.

Asha laughed awkwardly, then momentarily retreated to the kitchen. There, she gathered a few things to eat for later on at lunch, bundling them into a white cloth and tying it tightly shut. Then, getting something else ready, she went to a particular cupboard in the kitchen and took a small brown drawstring bag with some precious plant seeds inside.

Looking at them, she thought they might be helpful in the performance later when the time arrived.

Knowing she got everything she wanted from there, she opened her book bag and spied sitting inside of it, now in his golden mouse form, it was none other than Asterix shining brightly.

As she opened up to see him, she saw him wave up to her happily.

This caused her to smile back. Then, grabbing a small slice of bread she'd quickly slathered with strawberry jam, she whispered, “Here, a little bit of breakfast for you too!”

He looked excited and replied quietly, taking it into his tiny paws, “Thanks!”

She nodded, pleased at his glee. Then, as he began to munch down, she revealed, “This is mine, so leave this one alone, okay?” With that, she placed her lunch bundle into the bag.

Seeing it, Asterix signalled to her with a thumbs up, his silent reply as he continued eating.

Asha smiled, then shut her book bag again. She returned to the living room and told her Grandfather, “Alright, I got my meal ready for later! I'll take the mandolin with me, along with the last few bits for the performance tonight.”

As she said this, her Grandfather got up and asked her concerned, “Will you be alright carrying it all on your own, pumpkin?”

Hearing the question, Asha smiled and replied, “Oh, I won't be carrying it all Grandpa!”

“Huh?” He looked puzzled by her response.

Smiling, she told him, “C'mon, I'll show you!” Then she opened the front door and headed out of it, holding it for him. She then waited for him as he made his way out.

As he stood outside, Asha left the door open. Weaving out from behind him, she began gathering what she'd need for later as her Grandfather watched her quietly.

Placing everything on the cobbled path, including the heaviest item, the pumpkin, in front of it all, she sighed and said, “Alright! I think that's everything.”

“Oh, good!” However, seeing all she had to carry, her Grandfather asked her, “But how're you supposed to take all this with you to the castle? Shouldn't you-?”

“With a spell!” Asha revealed, interrupting him. Then, smiling, she told him, “Here, watch this!” With that, she closed her eyes and quickly looked for the right words inside-!

GLOW!

Her body glowed all over with her blue magical power, then as her magic came to life, she chanted with a smile,

“Let us go! Let us go! Now!

And make an uplifting, graceful show!”

SHINE!!!

Then, all the items she gathered glowed brightly with her blue power and miraculously floated into the air!

“Wow!” Hearing her Grandfather's astonished voice, Asha smiled as she turned and looked at him. As she did this, she heard him ask, “How've you done that?”

“Levitation magic!” she revealed happily, then added, as the items floated in and around her, “It's real handy when you've finally got the feel for it!”

Silent, her Grandfather smiled and replied, “I see that!”

Asha nodded, but before she could say another word-!

“Oh, you starting the show already are ya?”

Hearing her voice, it was then that Asha turned around and saw, to her delight, “Oh, Levi!”

“Hey!” she replied with a wave, then rolling her shoulder. She said, “I got the job done now, so I can take over from ya!”

“Okay, thanks so much again!” Asha told her, pleased.

“No problem!” Then, as she approached, she said, “You just put on the best show you can, yeah?” With that, the older woman ruffled her hair.

Pausing, Asha laughed at this act. Then, as it stopped, she told her, “I'll try!” With that, she ran up to her Grandfather and kissed his cheek, making him smile and herself. Then she grabbed the mandolin and waved to them both as she left, with the items floating and following behind her, “I'll see you later!”

Both her Grandfather and Levi nodded and waved her farewell when-!

“BBBAAA!!!!”

Spooked, Asha saw Valentino come charging out of the cottage and was desperately trying to catch up to her when-!

“NOPE!”

GRAB!

Again, Levi came straight to the rescue and grabbed him by the scruff of his yellow pyjamas before he could venture any further!

Staying silent as she saw this, Asha watched as her chaotic kid fought against the older woman's tough hold. As she stared, she awkwardly said, “I guess Valentino just woke up?”

“BBBAAA!!! BBBAAA!!! BBBAAA!!!”

Hearing his loud protesting bleats, Asha had a good guess of what he was crying out. But she knew there was no way she could ever bring her with him to the castle she hadn't before, and that was not changing now!

But she could empathise with his desire for adventure and whispered to herself, “Sorry, Valentino. Maybe next time!” With that, she hurried on her way to the castle to begin her day. Hopefully, when she got there, she could get answers with Asterix about what was truly happening within Rosa.

X X X X X X X X

GLOW!

Opening her book bag, Asha released her Star Boy and told him, “There you go Asterix!”

“Thanks Asha!” He replied with a smile, floating in the air as a mouse. Then he closed his eyes in focus and-!

GLOW!!!

He reverted to his human form again, then with a shake of his head, he told her, “Wow! That feels better!” Then, taking a deep breath as the sun shone down on him, he added, “And the light tastes great today!”

“Better than my jam slice, huh?” Asha asked him, smiling.

“Oh, never!” he replied with a grin, floating by her side. He added, “I only wished it tasted as great as strawberries!”

Asha laughed, and then, as they walked together through the forest, she asked him, “So I guess our food can't give you the same amount of energy as the light, huh?”

“Sadly, no!” Asterix answered, then stood on the ground again and added, “If it did, I'd imagine everybody in the Heavens would be taking all the food they could get their hands on when they come down to visit.”

Stopping and imagining that scenario momentarily, Asha could only imagine how problematic that'd be and replied, “Yeah, I guess they would wouldn't they, especially if they have your appetite!”

“Yep!” Asterix laughed, then continued, “But when we do get to taste it, we really treasure it because it's such a rare experience for us.” With that, looking at Asha, he told her warmly, “So thanks so much Asha, for letting me try the bounties of the Earth, it's been an amazing experience!”

Startled by this thanks, Asha felt her cheeks warm and her heart pulse. A bashful smile appearing on her face, she told him after a momentarily stilling, “...It's okay!” Then, looking at him, she revealed, “It's the least I could do for you helping me improve my magic, it's been incredible for me too.”

“I'm glad!” Asterix smiled. As they walked together again with the floating items she gathered following them, he asked her, “Is it okay for us to walk this way through the woods?”

“Well, if you want to be back at full strength you need to be in the light for a while right?” She asked him.

“Yeah, that's right.” He answered.

“Then this is the best route for us,” feeling her racing heart, she added as she felt not just the warmth of being but the growing shadow of anxiety; she revealed, “And also, I gotta steel my nerves, for what we're about to do.”

As she stated this, Asterix seemed to sense her turbulent emotions, and his smile dropped as he replied, “You mean the investigation, right?”

Asha only nodded.

They stayed silent momentarily as they walked clearly, neither knowing what to say to the other. But after some time, Asha heard Asterix ask her, “Are you frightened?”

Stopping in her tracks, Asha replied, looking down, clenching her hands, “Honestly...” Then she turned to him and admitted, “Yeah, I am. I'm terrified.” He looked shocked at her expression.

Then, turning down again, she continued, “I mean, how could I not be? This isn't something where you act brazen and say, 'I laugh in the face of danger, ha, ha, ha!'” The joking tone and smile she used dropped in seconds as she said, shaking, “You can't... not if you might endanger people for real, I can't stand it!”

“Asha...”

Hearing his concern, she could not bring herself to look at him. But then, she felt his hands on her shoulders. As she did, she looked up and saw Asterix looking at her resolutely. He told her, “Don't worry. You're not alone in this, remember?”

Surprised, she felt him grip his fingers against her shoulders. As she did, she heard him continue, “I'll have your back, just as much as you have mine, okay?”

Staying silent as she heard this, Asha felt his warmth and strength on her shoulders. As she did, this comforted her and calmed the trembles of fear she felt within. As she did, she was grateful and said, “Thanks, Asterix! I'm so glad you're with me on this!”

“I'm the same!” he smiled, then clarified, “I'm glad you're with me, too.”

This made Asha's smile return; she was about to say something else when-!

“GGGRRRAAAWWWRRR!!!!”

“AGH!”

Spooked out of her skin, Asha felt like she'd lost focus on her levitation spell for a moment, but fortunately, she hadn't and-!

“Asha!” Asterix again pulled her close, and as he did, she felt his reassuring warmth wrap around her again. As she did, she couldn't believe it and then-!

“TWEET! TWEET! TWEET! TWEET! TWEET!”

The two of them then heard the twittering of various birds, and looking on in the distance, they saw a large, colourful flock racing towards them quickly.

Seeing them and listening, Asha couldn't understand their words. However, she quickly heard Asterix say with shock, “Terrible?”

“Terrible?” Asha repeated, puzzled.

Then quickly, as the flock of birds raced around them, she noticed they all looked panicked and frightened as their various high-pitched voices filled the air. As they did, she could tell it was really bad. But she couldn't understand them at all! Looking at Asterix, she asked him worried, “What're they saying, what's going on!?”

He didn't answer her immediately, instead looking concerned as he listened to them all. After a bit, he revealed, “Something horrible came through the forest last night.”

Feeling a chill at this revelation, Asha with a shiver asked, “Something horrible like what?”

“Yeah,” Asterix revealed, then listening for a moment more, he said, “Dark spirits, ones calling out...” Then he looked shocked as he heard his animal friends say, “Star Child!”

Perplexed, Asha asked, “Star Child?” Then she realised, “Wait! Asterix they were looking for you?”

He didn't answer her.

She asked him, becoming anxious, “What kind of dark spirits would be doing that?”

Silent, he then replied with a shake, “I don't know!”

Shocked, she asked, “You don't?”

Looking at her, he said worriedly, “No, I don't! I've never heard of such a thing...” Then he stilled and asked, “Could they be the ones who took my Sister?”

She could not answer that, but before thinking of something to say-!

Flutter!

Suddenly, something appeared from amongst the trees, a blue shape that weaved in and out through the branches. Looking at it, Asha felt a chill, wondering if it was a ghost or something!

But looking on, after a moment, she discerned more details and then saw it was actually something being carried by some more of the birds. Seeing its shape properly, she finally recognised the shade and colour and cried, “Wait! That's my cloak!”

Indeed, the birds quickly moved and brought over her garment, which she had used to carry Asterix when he'd gotten hurt. As they approached, other land animals came running behind them, looking worried like the birds.

Quickly, the birds in question passed her cloak over to her. Asha looked at it, amazed, said said, “Whoa! It's been cleaned!”

“I asked them to do that for me,” Asterix revealed.

Surprised, Asha asked him, “You asked for this?”

Nodding, he explained, “I never cleaned human garments before, so I asked everyone here to help and deliver it here if we came by!” Then, a squirrel climbed onto his shoulder. He revealed, “They were more than glad to help, right?”

The squirrel nodded at the question. However, it then chirped with worry for Asterix as it talked to him, probably speaking of what the birds had brought to their attention.

Feeling the softness of her garment, Asha couldn't believe her luck. Then she looked at the animals around her, who looked worried, too. She didn't know what words would soothe them but still wanted to tell them, “Thanks, everyone. I'm really grateful for this.”

They smiled in reply to her words. She was glad about this, but before she could say another word-!

“No, I'm sorry, I can't do that!”

“Huh?” Hearing Asterix's refusal, Asha asked him, “What's wrong?”

Looking over at her, as the squirrel finished speaking, he revealed, “Everyone apparently wants to go to the castle with us; they want to protect me.” Instantly, all the animals spoke up, probably saying the same as the squirrel.

Asha was amazed to see how much they all cared for Asterix, but then she heard him say, “Look everyone, I'm glad you all care so much! But I can't endanger you all, you don't know what we're up against!” Then, shaking his hands, trying to calm their loud disapproval, he added, “Even I don't! I can't let anything happen to all of you!”

Hearing him say this warmed Asha's heart, and seeing him care so much for the animals here and then-!

“GGGRRRAAAWWWRRR!!!!”

Jumping again, hearing this loud roar, a big furry duo exited the woods. Seeing their big, bulky brown forms, Asha saw again, “Brother Bears!” As Asterix cried out to them, she heard the two bears speak to him in a series of loud growls and grunts.

Quiet as she listened, she then heard Asterix say, “No, I'm sorry! I can't take either of you with me!” They snarled not in aggression but in objection as they said something else. Asterix said, “It doesn't matter how strong you both are! If they're too powerful with magic, you won't stand a chance!”

As she heard this, Asha could see all the animals' concern for Asterix. They treasured him greatly, and honestly, she couldn't blame them! But it was true, they couldn't go with them, but what could they do to soothe their worries?

Asha thought and concluded that, though it wouldn't bring total reassurance, it was the best she could do, so she cried, “Everyone!”

Quickly, all the animals' attention was drawn to her, and they all became silent momentarily. As they did, Asha continued, “Don't worry! I promise, I'll make sure Asterix stays safe!” Then, taking a breath, she added, “If anything dangerous comes after us, we'll run away as fast as we can and come straight back here, alright?”

The animals didn't respond.

Worried that her words weren't enough, Asha tried again and said, “I promise! I'll protect him, at all costs! Don't worry, okay?”

They all looked astounded at her, then Asterix looked the same and uttered, “Asha...”

She didn't like being the centre of attention like this, but quickly approaching her, one of the Brother bears grunted something. She didn't understand him and asked, “Um Asterix?”

Looking at her, he said smiling, “He asked if you truly mean it?”

Silent, Asha looked at the bear and then, with a nod, replied, “Yes! I mean it absolutely!”

The bear studied her. After a moment, he nodded and stood beside his sibling, grunting something else.

Staring at them, Asha looked at Asterix again and heard him translate: “They said you better do your best. They'll all be counting on you!”

Amazed, Asha felt relief rush through her. Looking at all the animals again, she told them, donning her blue cloak, “Don't worry everyone, I'll do my best!” Then, grabbing Asterix by his surprised hand, she corrected herself, “Cross that! We'll both do our best!” With that, she was on her way with him and began running through the forest.

As they left, Asterix cried back, “We'll see you all again soon, everyone! Don't worry; we'll find out what's happening in this land!”

To which all the forest creatures cried back to him in their many voices. As they continued, Asha liked to believe they were words of good luck and to be safe... she hoped that she could fulfil her promise and quietly squeezed Asterix's hand in determination. She didn't want him to get hurt either, and she resolved they would find out the truth, no matter what they came into contact with!

X X X X X X X X

Now, within the castle's domains, after Asha had dropped off the items she'd need for the performance within the Arena grounds, she stood in front of the double doors that she'd whispered to Asterix were the entry point to Magnifico's Wish chamber, where she would also practise the mystic arts inside with him.

He could feel her shake as a mouse as he hid within her book bag again, worried for her. Peering through a gap in its opening, he whispered, “Asha.”

She heard him, then seeing his small face poking through, she revealed a troubled smile and said, “I'll be alright don't worry.” Then she took in a deep breath. She still shook, but Asha became firmer somehow as she said, “It's time, but Asterix please stay hidden okay?”

He nodded his silent reply and got back into its depths. Doing this, he stilled himself and then heard-!

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

As Asha did this act, after a moment, he heard-!

“Who is it!?”

He couldn't help but jump as Asha did, hearing the severe voice respond from the other side.

He stayed silent as he heard Asha say, “It's me Lord Magnifico, I'm here for today's lesson?”

Listening on, Asterix then heard the voice release an irritated sigh as he replied from his side,

“Fine, fine! Come in!”

With that, he felt Asha move and push the doors open, and then, he heard the irked voice say,

“Honestly why is it you and not him?”

Appalled hearing this, Asterix couldn't believe him! Getting into a better position within the bag, somewhere where his light wouldn't shine through, he got a look at the man who'd taught Asha.

He was an older man with a greying beard and slicked-back grey hair. He was donned in white, rich-looking robes decorated with sharp-looking blue triangles in the lower half and various gold decorations with blue embroidered diamonds in his cuffs. A long white cape draped down his shoulders behind him.

Looking at him, he couldn't deny he wasn't handsome. But he wasn't looking in Asha's direction. Instead, Asterix could see he was reading a book. Squinting at it, he saw its title, 'Liber juratus Cyprian.' Looking at it, he realised what that book was - a grimoire, a tome of ancient magic!

It was dark and heavy, bound with pewter blue leather and a green sinister gem in its middle that seemed to throb with life. He didn't like the energy it emanated, so he shuffled back further into the bag to get away from it and him!

“You're waiting for someone my Lord?” Asha asked cautiously. With that, she put the bag he was riding within in a corner of the room.

As she did this, Asterix heard the snap of the grimoire close as Magnifico answered, “Yes! Captain Lawrence, he was supposed to be here over half an hour ago!”

“Is it urgent?” Asha asked.

“Yes obviously!” Magnifico replied. He sounded angry, then with an irritated tut, he continued, “Honestly with all this havoc going on, I haven't been able to improve any of my spells or made advancements in dark-!”

Suddenly, Magnifico stopped; Asterix wondered why? He wanted to know, but he couldn't see a thing. Instead, he heard the frustrated magic caster ask, “You're wearing blue?”

“Yes? It's my favourite colour,” Asha replied, puzzled. Then Asterix heard her remove what he imagined was her cloak. As she moved, he spied her from his little peak hole and saw her hang her cloak on the wall. She looked uneasy and asked, “Is that a problem?”

Magnifico didn't reply immediately, and Asterix couldn't see him from his position. Instead, the older man sighed, “No, it's nothing... I've just had a lot on my mind.”

Asterix then saw Asha leave his line of sight. As she did, he heard her say, “Is it to do with the Kobalos?”

“You've heard mention of it?” Magnifico asked.

“Yes, my friends informed me!” Then, she became quiet again. As she did, Asterix heard her ask, “Have you had any luck finding it?”

With a sigh, Magnifico replied, “No, none so far! It's been utterly appalling!” Then, with anger again, he continued, “Honestly! What's the point of having soldiers around you, if they're going to be nothing but incompetent!” Then he said spitefully, “They can't even catch me one puny magical nuisance!”

The more Asterix listened to this man, the more he disliked him. Given that he might have caught him on a bad day, it was no excuse to act so agitated in front of someone he was supposed to teach!

“Anyway, enough of my grievances for now!” Magnifico seemed ready to focus on Asha as he asked, “What have you been doing over the last few days? Have you readied your performance for tonight?”

“Oh, yes! I believe I'm ready now!” Asha said brightly. Asterix imagined she said this with a smile. As he did, he listened eagerly and heard her continue: “I've practised really hard. In fact, I think I've finally got a hang of using four spells! You might be-!”

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Hearing this loud burst of laughter made Asterix jump. Why did he do that? Was it really that funny?

“Um, is that weird your majesty?” Asha asked him cautiously.

“Absurd more like it!” Magnifico replied; then, as he continued, Asterix heard him walk, and his boots echoed across the floor. Curious and worried, Asterix reached another point in the bag and peeked. He saw Magnifico circling around Asha with a teasing grin, saying, “You honestly expect me to believe that you've already mastered Four Star points in just four days! Do you know how ludicrous you sound?”

Hearing this mockery, Asterix now really disliked him!

However, Asha replied, “Um, well, it was tough to do; it was all...” Her shoulders fell, and she asked, “Is it really impossible to do that?”

“I should think so! For myself it took me a total of six months to learn them all! Given I mastered three in the first week under my original Master, but four in four days! Ha!” Magnifico replied with a scoff.

Annoyed, Asterix uttered quietly, “What nerve!” For there wasn't much difference! How could he mock Asha like this!?

Asha's face was turned down while Magnifico replied, “Well, anyway! I'll humour you! Why don't you show me what you've supposedly mastered in four days, shall we?”

“Sure I guess...” Asha replied sadly.

Asterix didn't like this, seeing Asha's confidence be sapped as he saw her head lower. Not making eye contact with the magical ruler of this land, then he heard the mocking man say, “Now, since we were concentrating on light magic last time, why don't we do a repeat of-!”

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

Spooked again, Asterix hid in the bag again and heard a new voice cry out,

“Your Majesty! I've arrived now!”

Magnifico stopped, and then he uttered, annoyed, “Finally! That moron took forever!” With that, he stopped what he was doing and rushed to the doors. Asterix heard him open them and then say, “I'll be back momentarily Asha!” With that, he heard the doors be closed, but before he entirely left, he added, “Be prepared to show my your improvements!”

“Yes, of course!” Asha replied with some nervousness, and with that, the doors were closed.

Staying silent, Asterix wondered what Asha would do now? Would she-?

“Okay, let's do it now!” He heard the patter of her shoes, and she returned to him. Opening the bag, she told him, “Asterix, if you're going to explore, you should go now!”

As she said this, worried for her, he told her, “But! I can't leave you here with him! He was so horrible to you! How can you-!”

“That's what he's always like when he's in a bad mood!” Sadly, she admitted, “I'm used to it.”

“Asha, that isn't something you should-!”

“Look we can't argue about this now, if you want a quiet exit out of here to explore this place, there won't be a better time!” Then she looked over to where the doors were, doing this and seeing they were safe for a little more, she added, “And now since you know where the Wish chamber is and what it looks like, you'll find it easier to make it back here!” With that, she cupped her hands, lifted him up and told him, “Now c'mon you've got to take your chance while you've got it, we need to find our answers!”

Quiet, listening to her explanation, though he was reluctant to leave her. Asterix knew what she was saying was true, so gripping a tiny paw, he told her, “Okay, I'll do that Asha!” However, before she could release him, he reached up, put a paw on her cheek, and said, “But don't let that guy bully you! You show him what you can do! Don't let him wreck your confidence.”

She looked surprised, then, with a small smile, she told him, “Don't worry; I won't! I'll prove myself to him; just you wait!”

He nodded pleased, and then she placed him on the floor. Running forward, he looked around fast and saw something he could use – a tiny hole in a shadowed corner that he could squeeze through! With that located, he rushed towards it!

Making it there, he looked back at Asha, but before he could speak to her again-!

“Go there now! And get some troops ready!”

Magnifico had begun to open the doors, and Asha ushered Asterix to go fast, waving her hands at him urgently.

He nodded fast and quickly went through the hole to discover what secrets he could find within Rosa's ruler's castle!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 22

(*(Chapter Twenty Two)*)

Floating beside Asha and holding the lantern as they left the tree and journeyed to return home after witnessing the fall of the deceptive enchantment, Asterix remained silent as he stared at her. He was concerned as she covered her mouth with a worried, shaking hand.

He didn't want her to be this way; getting closer to her, he put a hand on her shoulder and asked, “Asha?”

“Eeek!” She squeaked in fright; doing this, she turned fast and saw him becoming startled at her reaction.

She looked at him quietly before losing her spooked expression. As she did, she sighed and apologised, “Sorry, I guess I got too lost in my own thoughts.”

Silent, he then revealed a small troubled smile and, with a shake of his head, told her, “It's okay, I understand.” Then she showed a sad smile before walking again. As she did, staying close to her side, he asked, “What're you thinking about?”

“Well about that illusionary magic... and how I'll even get answers as to what's really going on now,” she told him. Then she shook again nervously and said, “I mean, I can't just march up to the strongest magic ruler here, who's the King no less and just demand answers!” She shook again at the idea and said, “I don't want to imagine what he could do to me or those I care about, if he really is...”

As she struggled to reveal her fears to him, Asterix couldn't stand seeing her look terrified, losing her warm smile. He became determined and floating before her. He placed the lantern down and took her free hand, telling her, “It's okay! I won't let anything bad happen!”

“Huh?” She became surprised.

Then smiling, he continued, holding her single hand with both of his own, reminding her, “After all, I promised to protect you at all costs! I'll make sure nothing happens to you or anyone else you care about, I'll make sure of it!”

She stared at him awestruck, and she uttered, “Asterix...” Then, after a little, a look of relief revealed itself; she placed her once worried hand over the ones that held her and told him, “Thank you! That mean's a lot!”

“Of course!” He smiled again with a happy nod. Then, as they continued to journey together, he began thinking too and said, “Do you think Magnifico would do something violent to you?”

She was quiet, then answered with trepidation, “I don't want to believe that, but there have been times he's gotten angry, and I mean...really angry, with people who've wronged him and they've ended up being exiled as the worst punishment, like I've said.”

Hearing this again, Asterix grew more fierce dislike and replied, “He really is an awful oppressor, as I first thought!”

Asha looked uncomfortable again as he said this. However, he continued, “And if he's been pretending that the war's still going on, he's nothing but a fraud!”

Stopping, Asha repeated, puzzled, “A fraud?”

With a nod, Asterix replied, “Yeah! He must be, how could I not see him as anything else, now!” Then he added, as he remembered what they witnessed, “At this point he's keeping you all prisoner here! Hiding the truth of what's really going on!”

Asha remained silent hearing this, and then she fiddled with her hands nervously. Then, she said, “But... what if there's a reason for it all?”

“Huh?” Asterix was struck with disbelief.

Asha then said, “We can't just make assumptions about everything! We need to know what's really happening right now!”

Asterix couldn't believe her and asked, “Asha do you hear yourself?!” She didn't reply, and as she stayed silent, Asterix continued, “You've seen the truth! There is no war out there now, he's a bad guy! How can you believe in him, when-!”

“It's not about that!” She cried, and as he became silent, she continued determined, “Lord Magnifico, he lost the people he cared about in the war too! I've felt that loss in his words and his actions... that's not something you can make up!” Then shaking, she continued, “After all the war was still going on when I arrived here, he's protected us all since then, for so long! It can't all have been deceit...” Then, shaking her head, she said, “I don't want to believe it's all been done with malice!”

“Asha...” Asterix couldn't believe that she still wanted to be open-minded despite the dark illusion falling apart, “You still want to believe in Magnifico?”

She stayed silent momentarily before answering, “I want to give everyone a fair chance!” Then, looking at him determinedly, she continued, “If I just jump to conclusions and assume about people's intentions, I'd be no better than those who started the Zodiac War in the first place.” Gripping her nervous hands, she added, “I can't just declare someone an enemy without knowing the whole truth...” shaking her head, she said sadly, “I don't want to just label someone instantly with hate!”

Silent, Asterix stared at her.

She trembled and said, “You probably think I'm so stupid right now, don't you? That I'm being naïve and-!”

However, Asterix quickly moved and placed his hands on her shoulders. She looked up at him, startled. As she did, he told her with a gentle smile, “No, I don't!” Then, gripping his hands against her still form, he added, “I admire how fair-minded you are right now.”

Her eyes widened, “Asterix...”

He nodded, revealing, “But Asha, please, don't let him take advantage of you.” Looking back toward where her home was in the distance and thinking of all the new friends he'd made and getting to know her family, he turned back to her and added, “None of you deserved to be used! Not by anyone! You all deserve to shine with happiness and have the chance to reach for your dreams, no matter what they are!”

As he revealed his thoughts to her, Asha remained still. Then she nodded and replied, “Don't worry, I won't! I'll not be used by anyone... not anymore!”

Nodding, Asterix became pleased, “Good!”

Then, as he floated down, he stood on the floor again. Asha said, “But it's still going to be tough to get the answers we need, because I can't endanger my Grandpa or anyone else...” Then, with a sigh, she added, “I just wish I knew what to do.”

“I understand,” he replied. Then, a thought came to him, and he said, “How about I help you find them?”

Surprised, she asked him, “You could do that?”

“Yeah!” Then, floating in the air, he spun and-!

GLOW!!!

He transformed into his mouse shape and said, “I'm small enough, so I could sneak around in the palace and help you find what you need for answers!”

Amazed, she then said, “You're right you could!” Then, laughing, she said, “Honestly I can't believe I didn't think of that!”

Asterix chuckled and said, “Also it would help me too.”

“Huh?”

As Asha became puzzled, Asterix replied, “I can look for Estelle in...?” As he became quiet, Asha stared at him, and as she did, he asked, “Um? What's the place a King lives in called again?”

Asha laughed and replied, “A castle!”

“Oh, yeah! That's it! I can search in there for those answers while I look for her too,” Asterix revealed.

“Okay then! I need to go to there to do some lessons before the show, so we'll have an opportunity then.” However, looking worried, Asha told him, “But Asterix when we're in there, please be careful.”

With a nod, he replied, “I will! And I'm sure it won't be tough while I'm in there.”

“Uh, sadly you'll be wrong,” Asha replied. As he stared at her perplexed, she revealed, “Charo lives there, the cat who attacked you... he's the Queen's.”

“Uh!” Showing a shudder at possibly meeting that terrible feline again, Asterix replied, “Oh, okay, then I'll definitely be extra careful.”

“You better be!” Asha smiled and said, “But if you do come across trouble, please come back to me ASAP, I'll do my best to get you out of it, okay?”

Hearing her care for him, Asterix was still. Then, feeling his heartthrob with a warm pulse, he nodded and replied happily, “Don't worry I promise I will!”

“Good, we're set for tomorrow then!” Asha smiled.

Asterix nodded, was pleased they had a plan now.

GLOW!!!

As Asterix returned to his human form, he heard Asha say, “Well, we should get back to the cottage, it's probably past midnight by now?”

“Alright!” Then, with that, they began walking on together again after he picked up the lantern; as they did, Asterix, looking at her from the side, saw that she appeared lighter now with a more relaxed smile. The fear and hesitation had significantly lessened, and he was pleased to see it.

Then, looking down, he saw her hand. As he did, he couldn't help but want to take it in his again. He hadn't paid any attention to it before, but with this mysterious feeling growing, this desire felt more special to him now. Feeling his heart pulse and glow with this desire, he moved quietly and took it with his right.

Asha looked up at him, startled; as she did, he looked away from her with a red blush blooming on his cheeks. Maybe this was a bad decision? Was he just troubling her now or-?

However, surprising him, she moved, and at first, he thought she would let go of him as she loosened her grip. But then she manoeuvred her fingers, laced them through his, and held him more tightly, yet gently, their palms touching each other.

He gasped, and he then looked at her surprised. However, she was looking away, but like him, she had a red tinge on her cheeks too. Seeing this, his heart raced faster, glowing brighter, and thinking back to what Valentino had said before, he couldn't help but wonder if she was feeling the same magical and mysterious feeling he was now?

He didn't know, but this sensation was so warm. It felt like a star would be born between their palms as they held each other; he'd never experienced anything like it! He never wanted it to end, as it made him feel so giddy inside touching her like this. So he said nothing and continued walking quietly back towards her cottage, letting the wondrous warmth between them shine in the calm night of the forest.

X X X X X X X X

“Urgh...!”

“Hmm...” With a hand to his chin, Magnifico saw the transformation Jensen had undergone and commented, “That was certainly slower than I expected.” Then, turning away from their guinea pig, he added, walking to the cauldron and looking at the Prism of Darkness in his hand, “We'll have to make some adjustments.”

Standing near their burning blue cauldron, Amaya, watching the Lividus feast upon the magical concoction she brewed, asked him, “What do you think has caused the delay?”

Moving to her, Magnifico said, “Probably the fact its not the right type of light.” Then, looking back in Jensen's direction again, he said, “The Prism has certainly made the transition easier for our Lividus, but if we want it to be swifter, I think we'll need their original lights.”

Amaya, momentarily quiet, asked, “You mean from all the Wishes we've gathered.”

Smiling, he revealed, looking at his beloved, “I believe so.” Then, turning to Jensen again, he said, “But still the end result is most satisfying.”

Looking at him too, Amaya grinned and agreed, “Indeed!” Then, stroking Charo, she said, “It won't be long now till we're completely ready!” Her beloved pet purred in her embrace.

Then she asked, “How many more times can we used the Prism before it loses its glow?”

Quiet, Magnifico revealed after some thought, “I would say four to five more.”

“Tch!” Amaya looked annoyed and uttered, “Not even enough to make a proper squad.”

“True,” Magnifico agreed. However, he lifted his hand to her chin to make her grumpy face look at him. He smiled, “But it'll be enough for the moment.”

Silent as she studied him, Amaya smiled and said, “Alright, but only for the moment, correct?”

“Of course!” He chuckled, then looked at the Lividus still feasting around their cauldron. He coughed into his hand and then announced, “My Lividus!”

At once, all the dark spirits ceased their consumption and, looking at their Master, remained silent as he commanded, “The night is at its peak! I command you now to go and seek our Star Child, bring them to us!” Then, looking back to Jensen again, he moved his hands and-!

CLAP! CLAP!

SLIP! SLIP!

The manacles were removed, and as they were, their subject stood and as he did-!

GLOOM!

Swirling plumes of darkness covered his now greying form, and he looked on at them with ice-cold glowing blue eyes. The same shade that the Lividus shone with!

They became entranced and glided over quickly. They moved in a huge dark swarm around the subject with great interest. As they studied the transformation that had occurred.

Seeing them do this, Magnifico asked, “Does this please you?”

At once, the spirits all turned, and in the unified chilling voice they shared, they asked,

“This is your answer to grant our most wanted desire?”

“But of course!” Magnifico smiled. He then revealed, “This is how you will all finally live and we gain what we've always wanted!”

The Lividus were silent; however, looking at the subject that now contained one of their brethren, the unified voice couldn't help but say,

“Incredible!”

“I'm glad you think so!” Magnifico chuckled, then told them, “Now, with all our citizens in the depths of slumber, you will venture out into our domain! Search through the forest, the entirety of the city! Find us our Star Child and I guarantee you will all finally have the chance to live that was wrongfully robbed from you, just as it was from I and Amaya!”

“Very well!”

Came the keen eerie agreement and with that-!

GLOOM!

They all passed through the walls and were on their way to finally capture the Star Child that would grant their Masters and their most fervent Wish!

…

As they were left with peaceful silence again, Amaya, smiling, said with sinister eagerness, “I hope they're successful!”

“So do I!” Magnifico replied, then asked, “Do you want to go to bed now darling?”

“Oh, yes! I most certainly-!” Then quickly, a look of terrified realisation came across her face, “Oh, no!”

“What's wrong?” Magnifico asked her, worried.

Amaya looked restless. Charo jumped out of her arms; he looked worried as she began panicking with her head in her hands, “The spell, Grandmother's spell! I forgot to grant it my power tonight! It'll be gone now and-!”

Immediately rushing to her side, Magnifico got to her and soothed her, taking her by her shoulders, “It's alright calm down! It's alright!”

She shook and replied, “No, it won't be!” Then, looking at him, terrified, she asked, “What if they try to sneak attack us now!? What do we do if-!”

“It'll be fine!” He reassured her firmly, then added, holding her close to himself, “Remember what you told me, you haven't felt anything from an outside force in a long time correct?”

Silent as she heard his words, Amaya stilled. Then, gradually, she began to relax into his embrace. Doing this, she replied, “No, I haven't...”

“There you are,” he told her, stroking her hair, “I'm sure we'll be safe tonight.” Then, moving back and taking her hand into his own, he said, “We'll reignite it once we get back to our bedchambers, we'll be safe until then I'm sure!”

“Alright,” then, as he held her patiently and quietly and she gradually regained her composure, she revealed a small smile and said, “You really are the best at this, aren't you?”

“I endeavour to do so!” He chuckled with his usual charming smile.

This made her own grow, but feeling uneasy, Amaya couldn't help but ask, “What if anyone sees the truth though?”

Magnifico kept his smile and replied calmly, “Who'd believe them once the enchantment is restored?”

Quiet, she then laughed and replied, feeling foolish, “Indeed!” Then, as her heart calmed down!

“Meow!”

Charo jumped up and quickly cradled himself into her arms again, glad to feel his cuddly, warm touch. Amaya smiled and stroked him quietly.

Nodding, Magnifico smiled and then asked, “Well, should we be off then?”

Quiet momentarily as she held her beloved feline, Amaya said, “No, I want to fetch something just a moment.”

Magnifico was now the one surprised, and he asked, “Something?”

Amaya didn't answer him. Instead, she moved with Charo to another door within their magical chamber. It was bolted locked, sliding the iron barrel back as she gripped its handle. Amaya opened the aged, dark wooden door.

Inside was a cell made of grey bricked stone, with a big iron-barred window above them letting in the moonlight from on high in the ceiling, creating a chilling and desolate ambience that made Charo in her arms shiver from the cold it brought.

Amaya stroked him again to comfort him, then made it further into the chamber. She reached the centre and crouched before an ancient dark oak wooden chest. It looked almost stone-like, locked with heavy rustic straps.

Letting Charo down, she placed her hands on the lid and-!

GLOW!

She illuminated the space with her green power, concentrating on the chest. She then chanted her spell,

“Aperi mihi!”

SHINE!!!

Her magic activated, and quickly, the chest's lock fell. As it did, she opened it and fetched her prized heirloom!

“Is this another little secret you've kept from me my love?”

Hearing him, Amaya grinned and replied, “Only because it wasn't useful to us until now!” With that, she got what she wanted and, turning to him, revealed the treasure she'd put away inside it.

She watched Magnifico approach with curiosity; with a hand to his chin, he studied it and asked, “A collar?”

Smirking, she replied, “Yes!” Then, looking down at it with admiration, she revealed, “Another of my Grandmother's wonderful and extraordinary creations!”

For it was to her, made by her beloved matriarch: a human-sized leather collar, made with hickory brown leather with a menacing owl-faced black metallic decoration with the same coloured spikes surrounding its belt, with the dark metallic D-ring in front of it covered in sharp thorns.

Holding its shape as pleasing memories of its use returned to her, she told him, “I want to fine tune it, so it will work for both of us once we have our Star Child!”

Silent Magnifico was surprised, then he laughed and told her, “Oh, my! What an excellent idea!”

She was pleased to see his smile again.

STEP! STEP! STEP! STEP!

Then, looking behind and hearing these footsteps, they saw that the possessed Jensen had followed them and was standing to attention before the prison cell's door, waiting for orders as he stood in silent salute.

“HHHIIISSSS!!!!”

Charo hissed aggressively at the sight of him. Magnifico smirked and said, “It'll be good to have more reliable soldiers like him added to our ranks soon, won't it?”

“Oh, yes!” Amaya agreed. Then Magnifico moved his hand and let it settle on the collar. As it did, she smiled and told him, “And we'll add more together and finally have our turn in the game of war!”

His smile grew as he replied, “That we will!” Then-!

GLOW!!!

Amaya began quietly to chant again as she began the spell that would allow Magnifico to control the collar like her, and with it, they would command the power of their Star Child together!

X X X X X X X X

GLOOM!

Appearing from the walls of the castle tower, the sinister spirits of the Lividus moved swiftly; like a storm of writhing spectres, they spread everywhere throughout every corner of the city as they began searching high and low for the evasive Star Child.

This eager swarm moved through the shadows of the city walls, peering through every nook and cranny on every street and corner. Peaking through all the windows and entering the unaware dreamer's homes, another branch of the dark storm lifted itself away from its brethren after some time.

Rising high, like a dark tendril, it twisted and slithered fast through the city's entry point. Together, this search party moved swiftly to begin their investigations in the forest so they may find their prized being and bathe in the warmth and radiance they shone with that had been denied to them for so long...

X X X X X X X X

Creak...

“Uh!” Feeling nervous, Asha didn't want to cause too much noise now! So carefully, she tried to push the front door open again, saying, “Okay, quietly now...” With that, she moved once more, and this time, being more gentle, the door didn't creak anymore as she opened it.

Looking inside the house, she saw the candlelight inside had been put out. She was glad for the lantern that Levi had given them, but before she could think of what to do next.

“Zzzz...zzzz...zzzz.”

Hearing this sound of snoring, Asha peered inside after taking the lantern. She saw Levi sleeping on their wooden framed couch, with a quilted blanket over her form, using one of their cushions as a makeshift pillow with her back turned to them.

Seeing her do this, Asha was still. Then she couldn't help but chuckle and say, “I'm glad Levi's settled in easily.” Then she smiled softly, “I guess she wants to be ready to go in the morning?”

“It's not normal to sleep on there?”

As he asked this, Asha looked back at Asterix and replied, “Well, no, not really, it's not always the most comfy of things to sleep on, but it works momentarily I guess?”

“Oh, okay!” Asterix smiled, and then silence came between them.

They were still holding hands. Feeling Asterix's warmth, Asha knew their time together that night was ending. But she didn't want to let go of his hand; her heart raced, touching him. She enjoyed his warmth so much, but she couldn't just-!

“Well I guess it's time for me to go now, huh?”

Shaken out of her inner thoughts, Asha was startled and uttered, “What?”

“I should go now correct?” Asterix told her, then with a sad smile, he continued, “I need to hide in the forest again so I don't cause you any more trouble, right?”

Conflicted hearing this, Asha replied sad herself, “I guess, but-”

With that, Asterix let go of her hand. As he did, he then told her, “Well, I'll get going now, so you can get the sleep you need.” With that, he floated away and said, “Goodnight Asha, I hope you-!”

“No!”

GRAB!

She quickly grasped his hand again, surprising herself and him. She became frozen stiff as he stared.

Her heart was racing, and she knew then that she was acting too weird! She couldn't think of what to say, for she didn't want Asterix to go! But what could she do to-!?

“Asha? Are you alright?” He asked, concerned, then moving his other free hand. He held her cheek and continued, “Is something wrong?”

“Uh...” Gulping, she felt like her heart was racing a thousand miles a minute again, feeling his touch on her face. But shaking her head, making him release her, she knew she had to get ahold of herself and quickly replied, desperate not to be strange, “No, no! I'm alright! I just...”

“Just what?” He asked her, curious.

“Um, well...” Looking up at him and gazing into his wondrous brown eyes again, Asha took a deep breath to gain some courage and asked him, “Asterix why don't you stay here tonight?”

He looked at her surprised and asked, “Huh? Stay here?”

Nodding, Asha told him, “Yeah, I was thinking it was better you stay here to get some sleep.” Then, remembering that morning, she told him, “Because I don't want you to get hurt again, falling out of a tree like you did or something.”

Silent as she revealed her reason, Asterix asked, “Would that really be alright with you?”

“Of course it would!” She smiled and told him, “You're more than welcome here!” Then, gripping his hand a little more, she added, “After all, you're not a stranger to us, you're one of us now, right?”

He looked astounded, quickly smiled warmly and replied, “I'm glad you think so!” Then, holding her hand with both of his now, he told her, “Thanks Asha!”

“It's okay!” She was glad for the happy atmosphere between them now. Then she told him, “Well, let's go in shall we?” Before fully stepping back into her home, she said, “Though we'll need to be careful and make sure we don't wake up Levi, so-?”

“How about I help with that?” Asterix asked brightly.

“Huh?” Asha was puzzled at first, for what could he do to-?

“Whoa!?”

Then she saw and felt Asterix's idea! He took hold of her and held her princess-style in his arms. As he did, he told her brightly as they floated in the air, “Here! Now you won't have to worry about making any loud footsteps right?”

Staring at him in amazement, Asha chuckled and replied, “I guess!” However, with a sigh, she complained, “Though I'd prefer if you warn me before you grab me like this in the future!”

“I'll try!” He smiled happily.

Asha's annoyance faded, and she smiled too, and with that, Asterix carried her quietly into the cottage.

As Asterix held them, floating together, Asha quietly shut the door behind them. Then, as she did, she saw, to her surprise, in a whisper, “Huh? Levi's hung this up?”

Before the window on the door was one of her small bundled bouquets of purple flowers she'd been preparing that day.

“What is that, Asha?”

Hearing him whisper, she said, “Oh, it's one of my lavender bouquets.”

Asterix looked curious and asked, “Lavender?”

Nodding, Asha replied, “Yeah, Mom and I used to make them together, to sell and also hang in the house.” She then continued looking back at it, “They're good insect repellents and are supposed to be good for protection against bad things if you hang them across all the windows.”

Curious again, Asterix asked her, “How can a plant do that?”

“I don't know, the smell of it maybe?” Asha answered, then with a shrug, she continued with a nostalgic smile, “Mom believed in the idea and I believe it just helps to feel closer to her and Dad too, since it was his favourite flower, plus its my favourite scent!”

Quiet, Asterix replied, “I see!”

Asha's smile remained, and she told him, “C'mon let's go upstairs!”

He nodded his answer, and they floated towards the stairs when-!

“Beh...”

Surprised hearing this tired bleat, Asha and Asterix turned and saw sleeping with Levi. As she turned over, Valentino, who she held gently in her arms, in a cuddle.

Silent, seeing this sight, they then looked at each other and did their best not to laugh and wake them. Then, with that, they were on their way and quietly floated up the stairs...

X X X X X X X X

“GGGRRRAAAWWWRRR!!!!”

As the dark spirits of the Lividus raced through the forest, their presence caused the creatures who lived in its peaceful domain to become agitated and terrified. Most of the beasts ran away from them in fear, some leaping away at tremendous speed and others scurrying into the heights of the trees, while others desperately tried to hide themselves in the depths of their burrows.

However, two angry, more enormous beasts confronted them with their sharp claws revealed and their ferocious teeth bared. They tried with fury to strike them down, but the Lividus, undeterred by all of them, simply pulled back and away from the futile attack.

Floating above them, they stared down at the big, hulking brown fur-covered beasts as they growled with hostility at their intrusion. Their eerie combined voice commented,

“Animals disgusting!”

They detested them for their primal and inferior existence; these pitiful things could live, and they couldn't? They wanted nothing to do with them!

Moving quickly, they turned in another direction and promptly headed to where they could feel a small warm habitation where surely humans dwelled and perhaps their desired Star Child...

X X X X X X X X

Making it to her room, Asha opened it for them; she entered first, and Asterix followed in, floating after her. As he did this, she closed the door behind her. She sighed and said, “Okay, I think we'll be alright to talk here if we're not too loud.”

“That's good!” Asterix nodded happily, then he asked her, looking at her room, “So, where should I sleep?”

“Um?” Freezing once more, Asha realised she hadn't thought about it! Panicking momentarily, her brain raced fast to think of something when an idea came!

Looking at him, Asha asked, “Asterix?”

“Yeah?”

“Can you sleep in your animal forms?” She asked cautiously.

Blinking surprised, he asked, “Can I sleep that way?”

Asha nodded her answer.

Quiet in thought momentarily, he replied, “Well, I can do it, but I won't usually be at complete strength afterwards.”

Surprised, Asha asked him, “Why's that?”

“Because I can't fully absorb enough of the light I need when in that state, since it's not my natural form.” Then, with a sigh, he added, “If I could take on bigger shapes like the brother bears or something like them I'd be better off, but well, you know...”

As he explained, Asha was momentarily silent before replying, “Yeah, I know.” However, realising it wasn't impossible, she asked, “Would you be alright with doing it for tonight?”

“Tonight?” He repeated, surprised.

She gave him another nod.

“Sure, I don't mind,” he smiled. However, he became curious and asked, “But why though?” Looking at her bed, he continued, “Isn't it big enough for two?”

Feeling awkward, Asha laughed and replied, “Uh, no it's not! It's made only for me so, more people would make it more...cramped?” She smiled sheepishly.

Blinking, Asterix asked her, “Really?”

“Yeah! I'm afraid so, sorry!” Asha replied troubled. She prayed deep down he'd just go with her logic!

Asterix was quiet momentarily before he replied brightly, “Well, okay! You know more about human beds Asha, so I'll take your word for it!”

“Oh, thank goodness!” Asha sighed immediately in relief; she was so glad he was laid back like this.

He tilted his head, puzzled, but then Asterix asked her becoming eager, “So what should it be? Is there a particular animal I should turn into?”

Silent hearing this question, Asha thought for a moment. Then, remembering their time at the Wishing Tree, she replied, “Um, there was that fox you turned into! The uh...?”

“Fennec fox?” Asterix answered.

“Oh, yeah! That was it! That one!” Asha replied, smiling, and then she told him, “That was my favourite one you've shown me so far! I think it's so cute!”

Silent, he stared at her.

As he did, she asked, “Um, is that a problem?”

“Oh, not at all!” He laughed and continued, “I'm just glad it impressed you enough! It's one of my favourites too!” Then he scratched his cheek and said, “I'm just glad I can do it more easily now, thanks to the confidence boost you've given me.”

As he said this, it warmed Asha's heart, and she smiled, telling him, “I'm glad to hear that Asterix!”

He nodded happily, then floating over the bed, he spun in the air and-!

GLOW!!!

He again turned into the adorable form he'd taken before, with his big ears appearing and his little eyes peeking up at her as he sat on her bed.

Seeing him do this, Asha felt herself shake inside. It was taking everything in her not to grab and hold him in her arms. His charm was off the scales!

As he looked up at her, he laughed and said, “You've got a funny look on your face right now, Asha!”

Hearing this knocked her back to reality, and she replied, “Oh, really?” Then, thinking fast, she said, “Well, I better go wash it off then! I'll see you in a second Asterix!” With that, she was straight out the door to wash her face, which she was sure was red, and hopefully calm her racing heart!

…

Staring after her as she left, Asterix was quiet. However, seeing the pillow before him, he smiled excitedly, for he'd never slept in a human bed before! He moved and jumped, then sliding down the soft fabric, he nestled back into it, enjoying its soft plushness.

Then, stilling, he stayed silent momentarily as he breathed in and out, enjoying the warmth and comfort. Moving again, he pulled the bed covers up and slid his lower half underneath them. He couldn't remember the last time he felt so content, elated like this, and relieved.

Thinking of what he'd revealed to her about Estelle and the ugliness he'd shown back then. He couldn't believe that Asha had been willing to listen to him and still accepted him despite all of it. His tiny paws reached up to his heart, crystal on his chest. As he did, he felt it shine with warmth and comfort as he thought of Asha.

A smile came to his face as he remembered her saying,

“After I make everyone happy in Rosa, I'll help you search in whatever way I can!”

She was willing to help in his search and surely with her and her friends. He was bound to find Estelle this time! He could make up for how he behaved in the past, finally apologising to her, and then they could go home together!

However, as that thought came, he stopped feeling a sudden sting inside. For if he went home, he would then have to...feeling a shiver, Asterix realised then he'd be leaving everyone behind. This kind and welcoming family, the new friends he made and Asha herself. The idea of it caused him pain inside, as it did, he realised... “I don't want to go.”

Looking up from the bed and turning to the door where Asha had gone through, he couldn't bear the idea of never seeing her again. Though they'd only known each other for a few days, they'd been some of the most special he'd ever had. He didn't want it to end...

He waited quietly for her to return, so this sting and sadness would fade, and he could feel her comforting warmth again. Staring at the door, he said quietly as the warmth of the bed and its softness surrounded him. He felt his eyes begin to close, though he tried to fight the drowsiness as he uttered quietly, “Asha...”

…

After refreshing herself and finally regaining some composure, Asha took a deep breath before she opened her bedroom door and said, “Hi Asterix I'm back!” Then, closing the door behind herself, she continued, “I hope I didn't keep you waiting for too-”

“Zzzz...”

Stopping, she saw Asterix's little fox head and big ears popping up from under her covers. He'd fallen into the depths of dreams in an adorable rolled-up bundle.

Staring at him quietly, seeing this, Asha released a small chuckle as she covered her mouth. As she approached him, she smiled and said quietly, “I should have known.”

Then, staring at his small golden animal form, she couldn't help but think about it again. He looked so cute as a little fennec fox!

However, as she stifled a yawn, she couldn't fight it. She needed to get some sleep, too. With that, she carefully climbed into the bed, ensuring she didn't wake Asterix.

Then, finally getting comfortable beside him, she laid fully down under her covers, her back to the window, and gazed at his small golden glowing form beside her. Staring on, she then noticed something, he was shivering!

Concerned, she was about to ask what was wrong when-!

“Alone...I don't want to be alone!”

Hearing this whimper, Asha became worried, as she couldn't understand what had brought this on? He was so happy when she'd left, what could-?

But quickly, thought of the reason, remembering what he'd told her about Estelle going missing and how the other Siderea had treated him. He'd endured so much and tried to hide it beneath a smile.

She didn't want him to feel that way! So, moving gently, she wrapped an arm around him and pulled his bundled form closer, doing her best to not wake him. Somehow, after a little bit, she succeeded, which was a huge relief.

Gazing at his small golden form, she whispered to him, “It's okay,” then stroking him, she finished, “You're not alone. I will be here, always with you now, Asterix.”

She hoped these words would help him somehow. She stayed still while gazing at his small form. Doing this, she saw gradually that his shivering eased, and he seemed more at peace. She even fancied that she could see a smile on his fox face. This made her reveal a soft one of her own.

She was determined to stay true to her quiet promise as she continued stroking him. For Asterix didn't deserve to suffer any more grief, nor anyone else she cared about. She would perform at her best tomorrow and put on a show that would make everyone in the audience smile!

Then she felt the waves of sleep gradually cause her mind to drift away, and then finally, she fell into a deep sleep, one full of warm and hopeful dreams, as she and Asterix shared their comforting warmth with each other...

X X X X X X X X

“Star Child...”

Finally making it to the small human habitat, the Lividus began their fevered search!

Slinking through all the paths and corners, they peered into all the cottages for any sign of their quarry. Then, as they turned a corner, they saw-!

Glitter...

They stilled and then quickly saw a fading trail of beautiful gold dust littering the grass beside one particular path!

One of the hordes moved their shadowy-clawed hands down. They brushed through the trail and, lifting it, they sensed one thing from it,

“Warm, they are close!”

The rest of its brethren shook with anticipation and excitement! They raced forward, following the glittering path and quickly came across one lone cottage upon a hill.

There, they saw a sight unnoticeable by human eyes; fading gold dust strewn everywhere, glittering all over the place, radiating warmth. There seemed to be no spot left untouched. This surely was the den it had chosen to hide in with its Aspirer!

They became more restless, their craving for that extraordinary warmth increased, and immediately, their search began, and they hurriedly looked all around the cottage, throughout the plants in the garden, into the depths of the well nearby and the surrounding trees!

After some time, though, they realised,

“Nothing!”

Then, turning to look at the cottage itself, the answer was clear,

“Inside!”

With that, they raced straight to the cottage and began entering through the walls and windows. Others went to climb down the chimney, however-!

“Urgh!”

Quickly, their unified voices cried out,

“This smell is abhorrent!”

To their dismay, in the frames of the windows were bouquets of one of their most detested banes, lavender.

They all backed away immediately to escape the intolerable odour, and gazing down at the silent and dark cottage, they realised a possibility about the Star Child's Aspirer,

“A magic caster!”

Again, looking around, they noticed that amongst the golden traces of the Star Child, there were faint glows of blue amongst their trails. Sensing this power, they looked at the cottage again and said,

“So they have chosen someone who can thwart us?”

As they hovered over the oblivious domain, they became agitated, and their shadowed forms seemed to burn with their rage at being denied their prize!

However, none dared to cast themselves again into the detestable floral pit beneath its stone walls!

But still, they could make one last check! Then the horde peeked through all the windows and looked as closely as they dared, and as one of the branching swarms reached one of the top windows-!

GLOW!

They felt it, peering inside behind a concealed slumbering back, peeking out beneath the soft layers of a bed. They saw their golden glow in the unlit room.

“Star Child!!!”

They went wild, becoming excited. They all tried to get closer to get a better look at them. However, they could not venture too close again, not with the dreaded lavender in their way!

But looking about, taking in all the details they could of the cottage, they knew there was only one thing for it!

“We must return to our Masters! They will acquire them for us!”

There were no disagreements, and immediately, all of the dark spirits raced back toward the castle so they could inform them of their findings and finally gain their sought-out glittering golden prey!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 21

(*(Chapter Twenty One)*)

“Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Laughing together, Asha and Asterix walked through the forest, holding hands and enjoying the gentle quietness of the night.

Trying to recover from his chuckles, Asterix couldn't help but ask her, “Really Valentino did that!?”

With a nod, Asha replied, “Oh, yeah! It was a real big headache!” Then, thinking of Levi's angered state from back then, she continued, “In fact so bad, Levi was insistent that he should be given a leash from then on, so he couldn't cause trouble like that again!”

Asterix stopped in thought as they walked, then shook his head and smiled, saying, “I doubt that would help! Knowing him, he'd find some way to sneak out of it!”

With a nod, Asha smiled and agreed, saying, “Yeah I bet!”

This made Asterix smile more, and then, as they rounded a corner, they saw the point they had first met.

Surprised, Asha asked, “Our Olive tree?”

Silent, Asterix, looking at the tree, looked back at Asha and repeated, “Our?”

Staring at it in disbelief momentarily, Asha looked over at him and happily explained, “I mean mine and my Father's.” Then, as she led them toward it, she continued to reminisce, “We discovered this tree a long time ago when we first came to Rosa.”

“Oh?” Asterix uttered. Then, as they arrived underneath its trailing blossoms and leaves, he asked her curiously, “When did you arrive here?”

Quiet, as she thought about back then, Asha replied, “I think when I was ten?” Then, looking over the tree, she continued brushing her hand against its aged bark, “It was so chaotic back then, it's kind of hard for me to pinpoint exactly.”

“I see,” Asterix replied. Reaching his hand up, he took one of the purplish-pink flowers of the tree and held it in his palm; as he stroked it gently, he asked her, “So you and your family have been here ever since?”

Looking at him, Asha simply nodded and said, “Yeah, somehow making it and escaping the deadly clutches of war.”

As he heard this, Asterix became quiet. Asha couldn't know what he was thinking, but then he moved and, surprising her, took the single flower in his hand off the vine and passed it over to her.

As he did this, Asha was surprised, but before she could voice her curiosity, she heard him say with a kind smile, “Well done, for making it Asha, I'm glad you and your family all made it.”

Hearing these words, she was silent. Then, reaching over and taking Asterix's gift, she looked down at it. Seeing its purplish-pink colour made her think of one person, and she became sad. Looking up, she told him, “I'd like to say thanks to that Asterix, but I can't...”

He looked worried, and then he asked her, “Why?” She didn't answer him immediately, and he looked anxious, asking her, “Did I say something wrong or-?”

With a shake of her head and a sad smile, she replied, “No, you haven't, it's just not all my family made it here to Rosa.”

He looked shocked and asked, “They didn't?”

She shook her head again, then walking forward, she climbed the tree, and Asterix followed after her. She sat down on the branch she and her Father used to, and then her Star Boy sat beside her, putting the glowing lantern he carried beside him.

As he did and she looked up to the Heavens above, she explained, “For the one person who never made it, who I've lost besides my Father... was my Mother.” She admitted tearing up.

Shocked, he asked her, “You don't have parents now?”

“No, not anymore...” she said sadly. Then, remembering what life had been like before they came to the island that was their sanctuary, she continued seeing the ferocious fires of war burning away in the distance, “But I still remember them now, when they used to be with me.”

Asterix said nothing and continued to listen on quietly as she recounted, “Life had been so peaceful, it was a struggle of course to farm and make a living, but it was fun because I was with everyone, we cherished every moment we were together in the town we lived in.” Then, smiling sadly she remembered, “And sometimes, we'd even venture outside and go to festive events together, with Grandpa, I never wanted for anything else.”

However, looking at those awful fires caused by what she knew now as the Zodiac war, she continued, “But then, these horrible people... on horseback they stormed through and ransacked everything, coming after everyone! It was terrible!” Then, shaking, she clutched the flower in her hands tightly.

Tearing up, remembering the screams of panic and pain, she continued, “They set everything alight! All anyone could do was run, trying to escape those flames and-!”

HOLD!

Then Asterix moved quickly and put his arms around Asha's shoulders. As he did this, startling her, she looked over at him. He was looking at her sadly. However, he nodded solemnly and quietly.

She froze seeing this, but then she smiled gratefully. Despite her sorrow, she continued, “During all of it, Mom did her best to keep as grounded, Dad too telling us not to panic, and she assured us we'd get away from it eventually, and in fact she was the one who found out about the ship that could take us here to Rosa, it was thanks to her we made it.”

Asterix, quietly hearing this, asked, “Why didn't she go with you?”

Again, Asha tightened her grip around her flower and said, “Because there was no more room on the ship for her, they were willing to take my Dad because he was more able bodied, while they chose to be generous apparently in letting me come and Grandpa...”

Appalled, Asterix uttered, “That's the only reason?”

Nodding, hating this fact too, Asha continued, “But Mom, even then, though I knew her heart must have been breaking! She sent us away with a smile, telling us she'd make it back to us for sure one day, but... that day's never come!” Biting her lower lip, Asha looked up and around at the tree. She said, “The first ever Wish we ever made sitting here on this tree, me and Dad, was for Mom to make it back to us, but...”

“I'm sorry...” Asha was quiet, feeling Asterix's arms around her. She could feel him; he was shaking. His face was turned away from her, so Asha couldn't see his expression. However, she could tell he was pained from hearing her story. But she didn't want him to be this way.

Reaching one of her hands up, she held the hand on her left shoulder. Doing this, she patted Asterix gently, and he looked at her surprised.

However, she smiled at him despite the tears in her eyes. She nodded at him, telling him he didn't need to be that way silently. She knew it wasn't his fault; he'd only been granting wishes for three years. He wouldn't have heard her or her Father, but she was sure if he had. Asterix would have tried for them; she was sure he would have.

Silent as he looked at her, he looked shocked. But then, with his grateful, sad smile, he nodded back. Then quietly, he continued to hold her comfortingly until her sorrow gently and slowly eased its hold upon her aching heart.

X X X X X X X X

As she took deep, calming breaths, Asha could finally feel her heart at ease again. As it became so, she heard, “Are you alright now, Asha?”

Hearing him, Asha looked at Asterix, staring at him quietly. She couldn't believe she'd revealed what had happened to her Mother like this to him; she didn't want to dampen the mood anymore and said, “Yeah, I'm better now, thanks Asterix!” Then, rubbing her eyes, she told him, “I must look like such a mess now! I don't know what came over me!”

“You never look that way!” He smiled, then moving his hands, he said, “In fact if anyone ever looks like a mess...” with that, he took his red hat off and-!

GLOW!

His golden hair shone brightly in the darkness of the night, dazzled by this. Asha quickly saw that his hair was a terrible mess again due to his hat. She was still as she heard him say with an embarrassed smile, “It's me!”

Quiet, Asha stared at him and his mess of hair, then couldn't help herself as, again,

“Ah, ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

She burst out into laughter, and as she did, Asterix laughed, too. As she held her sides, looking at him, she couldn't help but ask, “Honestly! How can you have a case this bad!?”

“No idea!” He replied, his hand trying to hold in his chuckles. However, as things quieted between them, he had to admit, “Though, how I'm going to tidy this chaos now without a mirror to help, I have no idea!” Pointing to his messy, glowing locks.

Silent hearing this, Asha thought to herself and then asked, “Asterix do you still have the comb I let you use before?”

Surprised, he asked, “The comb?” As she nodded her reply, he felt in his pockets and said, “Oh, yeah! Here we are!” He revealed, showing it.

Chuckling, she replied, “That's useful!” Then she told him, “How about I fix your hair for you?”

Surprised, he asked, “You'd be willing to do that?”

Her smile grew, and she replied, “Of course I would!” Then, as he passed the comb over to her, she told him, “After all, you've helped me out of my messes, so why shouldn't I help you out of yours?”

He was quiet, then with a small smile, he told her, “I'm glad to hear you're so willing.”

She nodded, and then she got closer to him and started to help him tidy his unkempt locks. As she brushed the comb through his splendid shine, she couldn't help but smile, enjoying the softness and warmth he shone with.

As she continued to work on him, she couldn't help but remember, “You know my Mom would do my hair like this for me.”

“Did she?” Asterix asked.

Nodding, Asha continued, “Yeah, I used to find it such a pain before since I have rather thick hair, but... I realise now, she was the one who did it the best.” Then as she reminisced, while Asterix turned around for her, she continued as she focused on his back locks, “Dad did his best but, he never had the magic touch like Mom did.”

“Well, I think your hair looks great!” Asterix told her brightly.

Stilling with a blush momentarily, Asha replied, “Thanks, Asterix,” then continued brushing, “I learnt to do it on my own eventually.” She added as she thought of his smiling face, “Though Dad wasn't the best at that, he was great at establishing a life for me and Grandpa here, I owe so much to him for that... I miss him just as much as Mom, and honestly, if I could have them back in a heartbeat, I'd take it.”

Silence then came between them. As it lingered, Asha then wondered if she'd gone too far? Feeling uneasy, she was about to ask after him when she heard her Star Boy say, “...I feel the same.”

“Huh?” Puzzled by this, Asha didn't know what to say, but before she could gain clarity-

“That's how I feel about my Sister,” Asterix revealed sadly.

As she heard mention of her again, Asha remembered how he'd mentioned losing her. Her smile dropped, and she didn't know what to say precisely then, but after finishing her work, she watched as Asterix turned back to her.

He was normal again. However, the light he shone with wasn't as dazzling as before. It was muted somehow; it was dimmed, revealing his hidden sorrow that Asha couldn't see during the daylight hours from yesterday.

Concerned for him, Asha asked gently, “Would you like to talk about her?”

His light dimmed a little more, as it did. Asha wondered if she was making him too uncomfortable? She was about to apologise when she heard, “...I don't know how to.”

“Huh?” Asha was puzzled.

Asterix looked so depressed as he replied, “What can I say about her? I'm not sure if even doing that will really...”

He was struggling, Asha could tell. Then, as she thought to herself again, she told him, “Well, just talk about anything.”

“What?”

Asha then explained, “Just talk about the first things that come to mind about her, what you enjoyed about being with her, things she'd do, even stuff that annoyed you, anything will do, no matter what it is, I'm sure it'll help you, Asterix.”

In disbelief, he asked her, “You really believe that?”

Nodding, Asha told him, “Yeah, because like me when I talk about my parents.” With that, putting a hand to her chest, she continued closing her eyes, “Even though they're gone, my memories of them bring them back to life in my heart, and I feel close to them again, even in a small way.”

Then, feeling this warmth of the past beating in her chest, she saw Asterix look at her in amazement. She revealed with a small, encouraging smile, “I'm sure that can help you feel closer to her too, Asterix, and it'll help me be closer to you both too.”

“It will?” He asked her, surprised.

“Yeah!” Then she admitted, “I want to be closer to you, I want to help you in whatever way I can because...” Her heart beat strongly, but she couldn't reveal what was hidden inside. She couldn't burden him with that; she needed to help him with these difficulties first, “I care about you, a lot.”

He became quiet hearing this, but then, watching him, she saw his glow increase a little. He revealed a troubled smile and replied, “Thanks Asha! It'll be nice to have someone who'll listen.”

She nodded, and with that, she stayed silent as Asterix looked out into the darkened distance. He began talking about his lost sibling, “My Sister, her name is Estelle.”

“Estelle?” Asha repeated, curious.

“Yeah, she's one of the best Granters in the Heavens, outgoing, joyful, full of laughter, she was always so excitable, always ready with a story! She made loads of dreams and wishes come true from a young age.” Then, with a slight smile, he added, “In fact she bypassed the usual age of granting.”

“Huh? What does that mean?�� Asha asked.

“It means the age when a Siderean can lawfully start granting Wishes.” Asterix explained, then continued, “Usually the earliest age you're allowed to start at is thirteen.”

“I see,” Asha replied, then she asked, “How old was she?”

“Ten.”

“Whoa!” Asha cried, then she couldn't help but say, “That's so young!”

“I know!” Asterix laughed, then he continued, “But again she is one of the highest level Granters there are, because she's so talented.”

As she heard this praise, Asha asked him, “What makes someone classified that way?”

Asterix was silent momentarily before he replied, “I'll give you an example, hang on!” With that, he closed his eyes and-!

GLOW!!!

Asha watched Asterix's size become smaller and smaller, and he turned into his mouse form again. As he did, she was puzzled and then heard him say, “Okay, now I want you to start snapping your fingers.”

Blinking, she asked, “Snap my fingers?”

With a nod, he replied, “Yeah, that's right!” Then he asked, “Do you know how to do that?”

“Oh, I can don't worry!” She replied, then getting her right hand ready, she asked, “Now what?”

“I want you to snap your fingers as fast as you can,” she became curious, and he added, “In turn I'll try and transform quickly before each of your snaps finish.”

“Um, okay...” She replied uncertainly. But then quickly, she started-!

CLICK!

With that-!

GLOW!!!

Asterix transformed into another shape, like a small fox with big ears. It was adorable! Amazed, she asked, “What're you now?”

“A Fennec Fox!” He smiled, then told her, “I'll tell you each one I become when we reach the end, okay?”

Quiet, Asha smiled and replied, “Alright!” Then she snapped her fingers more,

CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! CLICK!

GLOW!!! GLOW!!! GLOW!!! GLOW!!! GLOW!!!

With each click, Asterix quickly turned from one animal shape into another, seemingly without effort! It was incredible how he floated through the air, sending glitter and sparkles everywhere! The magical sight couldn't help but bring a smile to her face with each change.

CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! CLICK! CLICK!

GLOW!!! GLOW!!! GLOW!!! GLOW!!! GLOW!!!

Keeping up with her clicks, Asha began to feel tired, and after a bit, she said, “Alright! I think I've reached my limit! That's enough!”

“I can imagine!” Asterix smiled, finally sat on the branch again in his last animal form, and-!

GLOW!!!

He concentrated and returned to his human form once more. As he did, he smiled happily.

As he did, Asha smiled back and said, “That was amazing Asterix! What forms did you take on?”

He then revealed, counting on his fingers, “A red panda, a koala, racoon, otter, a meerkat, a sugar glider, a bat, then finally, a hornbill, parrot and a seagull!”

Some of these creatures Asha recognised, while others she'd never seen before, but despite this, she couldn't help but say, “You're really good at being able to keep up with my snaps and all those unique shapes!”

“Thanks!” Asterix replied, “What we did just then, in the Heavens is a game we play.”

Surprised, Asha asked him, “A game?”

Nodding, Asterix then explained, “Yeah, it's called Star Flicker, it's one we use to train ourselves to get better at transforming into different shapes.”

“I see!” Asha replied, however, she couldn't help but ask, becoming curious, “But why use the word Flicker instead of-?”

“Because it rhymes with clicker,” Asterix revealed, then he added, smiling still, “And it stays true to our theming!”

Quiet, Asha became amused and replied with a little chuckle, “Oh,okay!” Then she told him, “You must be quite high in level as a Granter if you can keep up with me.”

Asha then heard, “No, actually, it doesn't.” She became shocked at this revelation, and then she heard him explain, “The ones who are at the highest level, they can change at double the speed I can.” He added sadly, “Also they wouldn't even need to revert into animal form first to transform into other shapes, they can just change in seconds with no preparation at all.”

Silent as she heard this, Asha replied, “Wow...” However, she said, “But that doesn't make you any less Asterix, not to me it doesn't!”

“Thanks!” He replied, however, with a sad smile lingering, he revealed, “My Sister and the Elders would tell me the same thing, but honestly compared to the others, I've always been second to last in the rankings.”

“Why though?” Asha didn't understand.

“Well, because the highest levels can change into anything, any shape so quickly you wouldn't believe it!” Then, depressed he continued, “Even their gender they can change effortlessly, so as I said they can change into any living shape, there are no limits to them, they're the ones who are the elite.”

“Whoa,” Asha uttered, then asked, “Is that what your Sister was?”

Shaking his head, Asterix revealed, “No, she was the class under that, but still above me.” Then he stated what she could do, “She had the ability to turn into a more specialised shape, one that the others found harder to do.”

“What was that?” Asha asked him.

“Insects,” he revealed with a small smile.

Shocked, Asha repeated slowly, “In...sects?”

“Yep, she could turn into any creature of the insectum, any size and that's what made her powerful in granting Wishes, since she could do it without being seen and helping to spread happiness subtly.” Asterix said, smiling sadly again. He couldn't help but chuckle and say, “Though the other girls in the Heavens didn't find it particularly attractive as an ability, she didn't care about what they thought.”

Hearing this, Asha replied, “Well I have to admit, I'm not the keenest on bugs either, but if she was happy with that, then I don't think that's a bad thing.”

“I'm glad you don't,” Asterix smiled. Then he continued, “To be honest, she told me the insects on Earth were some of the kindest creatures she ever met... especially fireflies, they were her favourite.”

“I see,” Asha said, then she couldn't help but look out into the nightscape, “I like fireflies too, they're so pretty when they shine in the darkness.”

“Yeah, same...” Asterix agreed. Then he continued, “I was so envious of her, hearing about all the stories that she came back with, talking about what all of you were doing here on the Earth, it sounded so fun! I couldn't wait to join her in granting Wishes and spreading happiness too.”

Smiling, Asha told him, “So she was a big inspiration for you, huh?”

“Yeah, she was, I realise that now... but as time went by, I lost sight of that.” Asterix revealed sadly.

“Huh? What do you mean?” Asha asked him, concerned.

Asterix gripped his hands. As he did, he sighed and said, “At the time, when I was trying so hard to catch up to her, in becoming a Granter, there was a lot of pressure to become one fast.”

Silent hearing this, Asha became worried and asked, “Why was there pressure put onto you back then?”

Asterix revealed, “Because there was a lot of misery on the Earth, in the lands we were sectored to make happy, because of that, a lot of people weren't making Wishes to the stars anymore, they were giving up on their dreams, and when that happens... none of us can be born.”

Asha stilled, then recovering, she asked, “Wait. You mean that without people making Wishes to the stars, or achieving their goals, there'll be no more of you?”

Asterix nodded and replied, “Yeah, that's right.”

Asha was troubled by this, so she asked, realising, “But how can you have a sibling then? How-?”

“My Sister and I are a special case,” then with a warm smile, he explained, “Usually, like how children on Earth are born singularly, sometimes you have the phenomenon of twins or more right?”

Surprised hearing this, Asha replied, “Yeah, that's right.”

“Well in the Heavens, it's the same, most dreams and Wishes that are achieved result in only a single Siderean being born, but sometimes on a rare occasion, more of us can be born from one Wish alone.”

Amazed, Asha asked, “And that's what you and your Sister are?”

“Yeah,” Asterix smiled, then told her, “We were born from the same light of an achieved dream.” Then, looking up, he continued, “The Elders said we were found laughing together, holding hands, and running around without a care through the clouds.”

Imagining the warm scene in her head, Asha couldn't help but smile. Then she said, “That sounds so wonderful, you two must have such a special bond.”

“We do,” Asterix agreed. However, looking sad again, he said, “But it hurts horribly if you lose it.”

Hearing the pain in his voice, with concern, Asha asked him, “What happened?”

Pursing his lips, Asterix stilled for a moment. It was clear what he was going to talk about next hurt him deep down, then with a sigh, he looked up and proceeded, “... When I was training so hard, trying to become a Granter like her, to catch up, I trained myself to try and become bigger shapes, to become faster, better than I was.”

Listening to the strain he was under, Asha couldn't help but think of her role in trying to be a better magic user for Magnifico. She imagined his training and learning must have been similar to what she'd had to do.

“Then each time, as I struggled to learn and I heard about what my Sister had got up to, granting so many Wishes and spreading more, and more happiness... I started to resent her,” Asterix said, ending with a shudder.

Asha became shocked once more. She couldn't believe it and asked him, “You did?”

With a nod, he couldn't look at her and continued, “All that praise she kept getting, the adulation, then eventually even hearing stories from her... I grew to hate it all, I even imagined at some point she was looking down at me, because I couldn't achieve what she had.”

Asha couldn't say anything about this, but she could feel the pain from the past in Asterix's voice; the echo of that hurt alone was enough to sting her heart.

“So in response I trained myself, harder and harder, trying to catch up with her and prove myself to the others! I became exhausted from all the training, I had no time to play with the others and they just left me alone, but my Sister, she didn't...” Asterix shuddered again and said, “She was so worried about me, but I didn't want her to see me that way, I pushed her away, I told her to mind her own business. To let me shine on my own, that I didn't want to be in her shadow anymore!”

“Asterix...” Hearing him say all this, it felt unreal. The happy, go-lucky person he was, he felt all that in the past? But the truth was undeniable. She could feel it with every word.

He shook his head at her utterance, then proceeded, “Then I had my chance, at thirteen to prove myself! There was a cry from down below on Earth, someone who needed help desperately and I volunteered to go, showing the Elders how hard I practised, I wanted to prove I was ready... despite how exhausted I was, I even had them do Star Flicker to show them.”

Asha could imagine the scene in her head, with the other Siderea gazing down at him with critical eyes, trying to make their decision as she looked at her hand that had played the Heavenly game.

“And for a moment... I thought they were going to say yes, they were going to let me grant that Wish!” However, shaking as he gripped his hands tightly again, he revealed, “But then, my Sister came, she said she'd go instead! Taking my chance away from me!”

Shocked hearing this, Asha couldn't imagine the emotions he must have felt back then; she could only hold her hands quietly together and look down.

“She said I was too tired, that I'd collapse, she'd take care of it more easily and... I hated her for saying that!” He shook and said, full of regret, “I said such horrible things to her. How she was just showing off again, putting me down on purpose... just proving once more that she was the better one between us!”

Asha was horrified, imagining that. But if she had been under the same strain and robbed of her hopeful chance. Would she have acted any differently? Asha didn't know and had no right to lecture him about his actions.

“Estelle said that wasn't true, she was just worried about me, that next time, she wouldn't... but I couldn't bare to listen to another word, and I just ran away, while she went down to grant that Wish instead.” Asterix revealed, then with sorrow in his voice, he said, shaking, “And then... she never came back!”

“What!?” Asha. Who couldn't believe it asked him, “How can that be? What happened to her?”

Shaking his head, Asterix replied, “I don't know... no one does,” then holding his hands, he shivered and continued, “Where she'd gone they deemed too dangerous to send any more of us to go looking for her... they couldn't risk losing any of our fleeting numbers.”

“Oh, no!” Asha uttered, horrified for him and Estelle.

“Then as time went by, I went through so many turbulent emotions, I just thought at first she was doing it on purpose, to teach me a lesson... I was so angry at her! I wanted the game to be over and done with already, she proved her point! But then, even as that ebbed away and died, I started to beg the Elders to let me go, to find her, to bring her back... but they wouldn't let me!” With self-loathing in his voice, Asha heard him say, shaking, “I couldn't stand it!”

“Asterix...” Asha couldn't believe it. All she could do was stare at him with distraught eyes.

“Then when I saw all my pleas would go unheard, I just sank, deeper and deeper into a wave of sadness... that the others couldn't understand, saying to me it wasn't a big deal what had happened.” Asterix revealed.

Shocked hearing this, Asha felt her anger flare and cried, outraged, “How could they say that?! You lost your Sister! How is that not a big deal!?”

Asterix was momentarily quiet as he flinched, then answered, “Because most Siderea don't understand the emotion of sadness.”

Stilling, Asha uttered, “What...?”

“We're beings who are born of pure joy and success.” Asterix revealed, then looking at Asha with sorrowful eyes, he continued, “How can any of them understand such an emotion that's the complete opposite to what created us... it's only natural that they don't.” He smiled sadly and said, “That's what the Elders revealed to me, that what I was going through was grief, that I needed to find someone who can understand it, otherwise...”

Hearing him say this with such a pained, forced smile broke Asha's heart. All she could do was utter, “Asterix...”

He looked down and then away from her. He said, “But I never found that person in the Heavens... but I trained and got better, I finally was able to become a Granter when I turned fifteen and I came to Earth, and while here, I found humans over the years who have felt that pain, though I could never speak to any of them about what I felt, I was glad to see that I wasn't alone in feeling this... that's why I've always felt closer to humans then I have my own people, since I'm no longer the same as them anymore.”

“I see...” Asha replied, her heart pulsing painfully; she wished deep down that she could do anything to stop the hurting, but she didn't know what to do. What was she to-!

“And while I've searched for the last three years for Estelle, I can't help but wonder. Would it have been better if I had been the one to disappear?” He revealed sadly.

Hearing this, Asha cried, “How could you say that!?”

“How can't I?” He answered. He continued pained, “I'm nothing compared to her, she's the one who always shone while me... I'm pitiful in comparison, I'm-!”

HUG!

Moving fast, Asha put her arms around him and pulled him close. Doing this, she told him, upset, “Don't say that! It wouldn't have been any better if you'd gone! Don't ever think that way again!”

He stilled in her arms, and then she heard him struggle and say, “But how can't I? She's gone because of me, I-!”

“If you'd gone then I'd never have met you now!” Asha told him, upset, then her eyes tearing up; she continued, “It always hurts when someone disappears, you going would never have made up for that!” Then, shaking as she held him close, she told him, “And even if you do hate yourself now, I don't! I'm glad you're here now, Asterix!”

“You are?” He uttered in disbelief.

“Yeah I am! And not just because you're here to help me with my Wish! But because you're you!” Then crying, holding him as tightly as she could, she continued, “Without you and your positivity, always uplifting me and encouraging me in the way you do... I'd never have improved, I'm sure no else could have ever have done that for me, other than you! Because you understand the pain and struggle it takes to achieve a goal, you're so precious to me!”

“Asha...” He uttered breathlessly.

“And I'm sure, that's why your Sister went instead at that time too, because she didn't want to lose you, you said it yourself that she was worried for you throughout that time, wasn't she?” Asha asked him, her heart aching.

He stilled, then he replied, his voice quivered, “So she must have...?”

“Yeah, she did what she did back then because she loves you, just like my Mom did for me and my family, they each put us first before themselves... because they didn't want to lose us... even if we lost them!” Then she sobbed and said through her tears, struggling, “I'm sure...she loved you so much, despite all that upset back then! I'm sure she must have!”

Asterix then gasped. She felt him shake more, and then she felt something new; he wrapped his arms around her, tightly but gently. As he did, she saw that even he, born of joy, who shone with the light of the stars above, was shedding tears like herself and began to sob.

She couldn't believe it, but she didn't say anything. Instead, she held Asterix gently as he held her, releasing all the pain, guilt and regret he'd been carrying until that moment that had been hidden underneath his troubled smile...

X X X X X X X X

Asha stayed quiet; after some time, Asterix pulled away from her. As he did, he was now the one rubbing his eyes. He chuckled sadly and said, “I think I see what you mean now, not wanting to be seen as a mess.”

She softly chuckled at this, then told him, “Your crying isn't that bad, not compared to your messy hair, Asterix!”

Quiet, he looked embarrassed and replied, “Glad you think so!”

Asha nodded, then as he calmed down a little more, she asked, “Are you feeling a little better now?”

Asterix replied, “Yeah I am...” Then, putting his hand to his shining crystal, he said, “In fact I feel lighter somehow inside... I've never felt this way.”

Gazing at him, Asha could see he was shining brighter, too. As she did, she told him, “Now you can see why we cry don't you?” Then, as he looked at her puzzled, “It helps to release the pain that hides inside all of us.”

Silent as he stared at her, Asterix brightened and replied, “Yeah, I can now!” Then he revealed, “In fact that was the first time I've ever done that...”

Shocked, Asha asked him, “You've never cried before?”

With a shake of his head, he revealed, “No, well since we're born of pure joy, tears and crying aren't usually equated to that emotion.”

Asha looked confused and said, “But I've cried when I'm overjoyed before, so wouldn't that-?”

“Well again, as you said in joy and happiness,” then looking above to the Heavens, Asterix continued, “Sadness as I've said is not something that is known to most of the Siderea, not many of them ever experience it.”

Puzzled by this, Asha asked him, “How can that be?” Then, looking up, she asked him, “You said that your people can die right? So have they never felt loss when they lose someone?”

“Well...” Asterix looked troubled, then with a sigh, he revealed, “When death comes for us, we lose our physical forms and ascend into the realm above the clouds in the Heavens and become true stars.”

Startled hearing this, Asha repeated, looking at him, “True stars?”

With a nod, Asterix continued, “Yeah, you see the living forms we have now are temporary, to gain experience and spread joy, then when our time comes we go up there and shine high above so our light may forever inspire all those down below to hold onto hope in the darkest of time, thus we complete our cycle.”

Hearing this explanation, Asha became stunned. Then, as she understood his words, she asked, “So that's why the Siderea are so carefree about death?”

“Yeah, because we'll all end up there one day it's guaranteed,” Asterix said sadly. However, clutching his crystal, he revealed, “But Estelle, she's not up there, I've never felt her light shine from the skies above.”

Staring at him, Asha asked, “You can feel her?”

Closing his eyes, Asterix replied, “Yes, she and I are linked since we were born from the same Wish.”

“I see...” Asha said.

Then, opening his eyes, Asterix told her, “And after looking all these years, throughout all the places she could have gone, between times I had to grant Wishes, I've felt her radiance the strongest here.”

Surprised, Asha asked him, “Wait? You mean Estelle is here in Rosa somewhere?”

Nodding, Asterix confirmed this and said, “Yeah somewhere, her pulse is weak, but I'm sure of it! But I never had the opportunity to come and properly investigate here.” Then, looking at her, he said, “That is until you finally made a Wish.”

Astounded hearing this, Asha was quiet. Then, with an awkward laugh, she told him, “Well, um, I'm glad I've been able to give you that chance... though I wasn't really trying to.”

Asterix laughed, then said, “I don't think anybody really tries to when they do, but I waited in the clouds hoping someone would make a Wish on the stars so I could finally find her.”

Silently hearing this, Asha told him, smiling, “I'm glad it's finally arrived for you!” Then she asked him, “What do you want to do when you find her?”

Quiet, momentarily in thought, Asterix answered, “To apologise, ask her what happened and... tell her I love her, that I've missed her so much.”

Hearing his answer, Asha thought and then decided something. Reaching her hand to his that stayed on the branch, she told him, “I'll help you then.”

“Huh?” Surprised, he looked over at her.

As he did, Asha said, smiling, “After I make everyone happy in Rosa, I'll help you search in whatever way I can!” Then she added, “I'm sure Dahlia and Simon would be glad to help too! I know Valentino would be up for an adventure like that!”

Amazed, Asterix asked her, “You really mean that?!”

With a nod, Asha said, “Of course!” Then, gripping his hand, she added, “As I told you, I don't want it to be only you helping me, I want to assist you too, in whatever way I can!”

Asterix stared at her, then a warm grateful smile came to his face, and he told her, “Asha thank you! I never thought anyone would...” Then suddenly he became teary and as he did-!

GLOW!!!

More golden glitter escaped him, and his white crystal heart shone brighter in the dark, showing how happy he must be.

Quiet seeing this, she asked him with a smile, “You're that happy it's brought you to tears a second time, huh?”

“I guess!” Then he rubbed again and said, “I really am a mess!”

“No you're not!” Asha smiled, then reached her hand up to him. She carefully cupped his cheek and told him. “I think you look stunning. No matter what expression you show, I like all of them!”

He looked surprised again as she said this, then gazed at her in wonder.

Silent, Asha stared at him and felt a warm pulse from deep within. All she could do was stare into his dazzling eyes as the quiet of the night surrounded them. Asha didn't know what to do then, but she felt her heart pulse as he held her hand with his own. Compelled by this act, Asha moved closer to him, and it looked like he was feeling the same as he moved too, and she began to close her eyes...

FLASH!!!

Then something angrily flashed around them with a green light; it spooked her, making her cry, “Ah!”

“Asha!” Asterix then moved and drew her close to himself protectively!

As he held her to himself, Asha stayed quiet as he did the same. She could feel this green light; it was hateful, full of spite as it burned out eerily everywhere. She didn't understand what this was! What was causing this!?

She shivered under the feel of this dreadful power in Asterix's arms until-!

Dim...

It faded away, then as it did, she asked cautiously, opening her eyes, “Is it over?”

“I think so!” Asterix answered, then looking around, he said, “I've never felt such a repulsive aura! But it seems to have died away now.”

With a sigh of relief, Asha then said, “That's good!” However, she then saw how close she was to Asterix, and feeling the magical mood fade away fast, to be replaced with nervous embarrassment, she stuttered, “Oh, uh! Sorry, um, Asterix could you let go!?”

“Huh?” Then, looking down at her, he realised and cried, “Oh!” He let go of her fast, saying, “Sorry, I didn't mean to hold you against your will, Asha, I was just-!”

“It's okay! I get it you were just trying to protect me, don't worry!” Then, waving her hands about erratically, trying to calm her racing heart, she told him, “I know this is suddenly so awkward now, I just, uh...?” Then she laughed nervously, not knowing what to do with these chaotic emotions.

She assumed Asterix would be his usual clueless, happy self when she looked at him, but instead, he blushed and nodded, replying, “Yeah um... it is, I guess?” Then, looking at her, he asked her, unsure, “What do we do now?”

Freezing, she had absolutely no idea! She replied, thinking fast to try and chase this weird atmosphere away, “Um, well maybe we can, uh-!” Then, suddenly, something caught her eye as she looked out to the lands beyond their waters. Something that she thought could never come to be, “How's that possible?”

“What is?” Asterix asked her.

Getting up, Asha looked out and put a hand over her eyes to ensure she wasn't mistaking things. However, her initial thought was correct; “The fires of war, they've gone out?”

Asterix, standing up, repeated, puzzled, looking out in the same direction, “ The fires of war?”

“Yeah,” for as Asha looked at the faraway shores, the angry flames and smoke that she'd usually see were no longer there! Instead, she could see a series of warm white lights from something she thought might be a seaside town! Then she noticed more, maybe a village or two in the distance! Shocked, she asked, “How can there be hamlets out there!”

Looking out himself, Asterix was quiet. However, looking at her surprised, he asked, “What're you talking about Asha? Those have always been there.”

Turning to him fast, she replied, shocked, “You're joking!?”

He looked perplexed and replied, “Why would I joke about that?”

Staring at him, Asha could see no hint of humour in his demeanour or a lie in his tone. Realising this, she told him, pointing out again, “The lands over there! They've always been on fire since I can remember! There's always fighting going on over there!”

Asterix looked shocked and replied, “Fighting and fire?” Then, looking out himself, he said, “Asha, I've been waiting over Rosa's skies for the last year. I've never seen anything like that here.”

Asha stared at him. She couldn't believe it and asked him, “You're telling me the truth?”

“Absolutely, of course I am!” Then, looking out to the calm shores beyond, he asked, “Unless?” Then, in thought, he asked, “Was that illusionary magic we witnessed burning out?”

Hearing this, Asha repeated, “Illusionary magic?”

Looking at her, he nodded and explained, “That's why you and I would see different things, mortals usually fall victim to it more than my race do if the magic user is powerful enough.” Then, folding his arms, he continued, “Though it takes a lot of focus and needs to be continually maintained otherwise it burns out like we saw, that would explain too why I've never witnessed anything like you described, whenever I came to wait above here.”

As this truth was revealed to her, Asha stilled and asked, “Someone wanted to pretend that the Zodiac War was still on going?”

“Possibly?” He replied. However, he couldn't help but ask the question she was now thinking, “But why would that be?”

Shivering, Asha replied, “I don't know...” However, looking in the direction where the heart of their island resided, she realised the only one who could cast that kind of magic must be “Lord Magnifico, why would he show that?” Then, looking back at the warm, faraway lights made her doubt everything she'd learned from him, “Why cast that kind of illusion?”

Asterix couldn't have known, but he walked over and held her frightened, shaking hand in his. As he did, he nodded to her quietly, showing that she had his support.

She was grateful for this, and then, even though she shook from the truth that was revealed, she gripped his supporting hand and said, “I need to find out!” With that declaration, it was the beginning of something, something that would surely change everything on that remote island.

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 20

(*(Chapter Twenty)*)

“And at last! They finally found what they truly wanted to be!”

…

As Asha spoke the act's last lines, there was a moment of silence before-!

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

Surprised, Asha heard and then saw her Grandfather applauding. As he did, he cried brightly and smiled, “Good! Very good!”

“Bah!” Valentino agreed with a smile as he sat in his lap.

She smiled happily, glad they were pleased.

“Urgh...” However, looking to his left side, she saw the one directing their act wasn't so enthused.

Baffled, she asked, “What's wrong Dahlia?”

Folding her arms, she replied, “I don't know?” Then, looking down with a few taps of her foot, she said with unhidden frustration, “It's just lacking something!”

Asterix nearby asked, “Something like what?”

“I said I don't know!” She told him, creasing her brows and trying hard to think, patting her forehead, “It's just missing that special feeling!”

Staring at her, Simon asked, “What special feeling?”

“The oomph! That big kaboom! You know that special one!” She told him, annoyed.

Staring at her momentarily, Simon said dryly, “You mean something that will make a better climax?”

Silent, she stared at him in disbelief before smiling, “Yeah! Yeah that's exactly what we need! Otherwise people are just going to be staring oddly around, with at worse lacklustre applause! And that's the last thing we need.”

Revealing an awkward smile, Asha replied, “Uh, yeah I guess...?” Then she realised with unease growing, “And if it ends like that, it won't be enough to prove that I've made everyone in the audience happy and I won't satisfy Lord Magnifico.”

“Exactly!” Dahlia replied, then with a smile, she added, “Glad to see you're noticing these things now!”

Asha didn't know what to reply to this, but before she could move on to say another word-!

“Oh, this looks interesting!”

Then a familiar face appeared from around the corner; looking curious, she asked, looking about, “What's goin' on here?”

Seeing her, Asha smiled and greeted the new arrival, “Oh, hi Levi!”

“Good evening!” She smiled back, then seeing everyone in the positions they were in, she asked, “So? What's with this little gathering, huh?”

Quiet Asha didn't know how to respond at first but then replied, “Uh, well we're practising for the magic show tomorrow, so we're nice and ready.”

Surprised, her cleaner asked, “Oh, really?” Then, getting closer, she made it over to Sabino and stroked Valentino, who didn't look too pleased by her touch; as she did this with a smirk, she asked, “How long have you all been doing it?”

“Since last night,” Asha revealed.

Shocked, Levi asked, “Throughout the whole night?!”

“Oh, yeah! At least till past midnight!” Dahlia proclaimed, then with her hands on her hips looking proud, she added, “After all if we want the greatest show on earth, you gotta pull out all the stops!”

Hearing this, Simon replied with a roll of his eyes, “The actors have to you mean! You've been the one just barking orders!”

Annoyed, Dahlia replied, “Well someone has to take charge and give this show its direction, otherwise where'd we be-!”

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Distracted from their quarrel by this burst of laughter, they looked to Levi and heard her say, “Well, I see you two are the same as ever! Bickering like cats and dogs!” Then, looking over at Asha, she asked her, “They haven't been giving you too much trouble have they?”

Asha shook her head and replied, “Oh, no! Both Dahlia and Simon have been a huge help! Without them I'd have had no idea what to do for tomorrow!” Then, putting her arms around them both as they looked startled, she continued, “They're some of the best support I could ever ask for!”

Both of them looked stunned at her declaration, but then Simon smiled and silently patted her back in quiet thanks, which made Asha smile all the more.

“Ha! Look at you getting all sappy again! What am I gonna do with you!” Dahlia laughed, and with that, she ruffled her hair.

“Hey!” Asha laughed and playfully tried to fend her off.

“Pfft! Yep definitely the same as ever!” Levi laughed, and then before she could say another word-!

“Yeah! Everyone's been a great help!”

Then, walking over with the Mandolin in hand, Asterix joined the trio and said, “It's been a blast to be able to join in on the fun!” Then he added brightly to Levi, “And I can definitely say the disagreements aren't as bad as cats and dogs actually have!”

Asha, hearing him say this, worried he might come across as too odd again, but before she could say a word-!

“Oh, who's this?” Levi asked, curious about his appearance.

“Asterix, Asha's new friend!” Sabino revealed. Asha remained silent as she listened to her Grandfather continue smiling, “He's pitched in to assist Asha, in improving her magic and letting it have music, with my guidance provided!”

Astounded, Levi asked, “What? You're alright with music right now you old coot?”

“Oh, yes! Surprisingly!” Sabino replied, then with his hand on his chest, he continued, “It doesn't hurt as much for some reason which is a relief.” However, clenching it, he admitted, “Though again I honestly do wish I could play, it's been nice to teach someone else the ropes of the art, so that's been pleasant.”

“I see...” Levi replied curiously, then looking over at Asterix, she asked him, “So when did you meet our Asha?”

“Not yesterday but the night before that!” Asterix revealed brightly.

Asha then quickly worried this might be getting a bit too dangerous!

“Then at that time?” Levi asked, baffled; then she continued, “Where exactly?”

“Oh, I met her when I came down from the-!”

“WE MET AT THE BEACH!” Asha cried, interrupting him fast, seeing everyone's shocked eyes as she stepped fast in front; she continued hurriedly, “He washed up there, I gave him a hand and we started talking, connected over magic together and! Yeah, we-!”

Then, seeing the perplexed look on everyone's faces, she really hated this feeling, and not knowing how to continue, she uttered, “Urgh!” Then she tried again to stay natural, “Well, we've got along super well, with lots of laughs made together and...” Then she laughed nervously, hoping beyond hope that this was enough explanation and cover so Asterix wouldn't be suspected of anything.

Everyone just stared at her, while Asterix, though confused at first, smiled and replied, “Yeah, that's true! We have been having a lot of laughs together haven't we?” He chuckled then with her.

As he did this, Asha continued to laugh now awkwardly. She just couldn't believe him. Did he feel absolutely no anxiety at all?

“Well you two are an oddball couple that's for sure!” Dahlia laughed.

Simon was quiet, then smiled and replied, “Now that I definitely won't disagree with!”

Hearing this, Asha couldn't believe them and complained, “You guys!”

Then everyone laughed all the more, then Levi, wiping a tear away from all this humour, said, “Well, since we've got the intros done, how about we eat! I've been looking forward to my promised stew all day!”

As food was mentioned, the laughter died away, and the awkward moment faded. Asha replied, “Oh, sure! Of course, let's get everything ready then!” With that, she began walking back towards the cottage.

“Good timing I could do with some more grub!” Dahlia smiled, then she added, “Directing is hard work!”

Following behind her, Simon uttered, “Not as much if you're on the receiving end of it!” It was not loud enough for her to hear it.

However, Asha had and chuckled as she held for the door for Simon and her. Then, as they entered through, she was about to see if there was more she could do for her Grandfather. When-

“Would you like some help?”

Surprisingly, she saw Asterix walking by his side as Levi came over, too.

Asha stayed silent as she heard her Grandfather say, “Oh, I'm fine Asterix, thank you!”

Levi looked surprised, then she smiled and said, “Well look at you being an adorable little gent!”

Asterix looked baffled and asked, “What's that mean?”

Levi was silent, then she laughed and said, “Wow! Good humour, too!” Then, as Asterix looked more baffled, she said, “Well, if you want to make yourself useful, how about you bring in that chair!” For then-!

“BBBAAA! BBBAAA! BBBAAA!”

Valentino again was butting into her legs, trying to stop her from getting into the cottage.

With an appalled sigh, Levi replied, “I don't trust myself with it while this little road block is trying to impede me.”

“Sure of course!” Asterix replied brightly; with that, he went to do just that!

Watching this little interaction, Asha couldn't help but smile at this. Then she watched as her Grandfather walked past her, and Levi too, with Valentino continuing his fruitless butting.

However, before fully entering, she said with a sly smile, “So? I've finally met your little secret from yesterday, huh?”

Freezing, then remembering yesterday when she and Asterix had laughed outside the cottage at her cleaning Valentino. All Asha could do was reply awkwardly with a laugh, “Uh, yeah?”

Levi chuckled, then finally entered. She said, “I'm gonna want to hear the real juicy details from you when I get to the kitchen.”

Feeling dread, Asha quietly wished, “Please don't...”

“Here we go!”

Then Asterix arrived with the chair in hand; as he did, he asked with a happy smile, “Are you enjoying yourself, Asha?”

Quiet, seeing him. Asha couldn't stay gloomy and replied, brightening, “Yeah I guess, it's nice to have everyone over!”

“I can feel it!” He replied, and then, as he walked past her, he said, “I'm looking forward to tasting the stew we all made together!”

Smiling more at this idea, she replied, “Yeah same!” Then, she closed the door, and dinner preparations were underway!

X X X X X X X X

“Your Majesty!”

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

“Mmm...!”

Annoyed as he began to stir, Magnifico heard his wife's grumbling as she awoke from this intrusive sound. He moved up, scratching his head, and as he did, he heard,

“Mmrreeooww!”

Charo was angered by this rude awakening as he growled madly at the door. He stared at him and couldn't help but sigh and say, “My thoughts exactly.” Then he put his hand on the back of the ferocious Mau, trying to calm him, he heard.

“Your Majesty are you awake?”

Annoyed, he grumbled quietly, “Now I am!” However, not wanting to deny the inevitable, so he called out, “Yes!”

“Oh, good! May I come in?”

“If you must!” He replied; then, as he heard the door begin to open, he uttered a simple spell, “Abito!”

Dim...

Then, the dome of twinkling darkness he'd created slowly faded away. As it did, the person at the door came through; he looked at him and then froze as Magnifico stared at him from the fleeing shadows.

While stroking Charo, he glared at the visitor and asked, “So, how goes your hunting Captain Lawrence?”

He shivered, but then, standing to attention fast, he replied, “Uh, yes the report your Majesty! We've scoured over half the forest now and along the beaches, but still-!”

“You've found nothing, correct?” He asked, clearly unsatisfied.

The nervous man before him gulped, then lowering his gaze, he answered, “No, I'm afraid.” However, he opened his mouth to try again and said, “But still my men and I will-!”

“Hold your tongue!” Magnifico told him, mad.

He froze immediately, then as he did-!

“Urgh...” It was then that Amaya finally awakened; as she did, sitting up too, she spied Lawrence and asked with a glare, “Let me guess, more failure?”

“It appears so,” Magnifico replied, then looking at the Captain, he asked, “And what're you going to do to improve your results?”

The curly-ginger-haired man stayed silent. He shook, but after a moment of thought, he moved his hand up in salute and declared, “I, we'll send the rest of the troops out tomorrow! We'll scour the rest of the forest, we'll even move to the mountains if we have to and-!”

“Silence!” Stopping again in his tracks, Magnifico then told him after some thought, “I don't believe that will change anything.”

The Captain looked perplexed and asked, “Why would you say that your Majesty?”

Staring at him with a critical look, Magnifico quietly moved Charo over to his dear wife and said, “I don't think it's the issue that not enough men are being sent out, it's the attitude of them.”

“Um, attitude Sir?” Lawrence questioned.

“Exactly!” Magnifico smiled, and then with that, he told him, “If your men are slacking, they'll never gain us results.” Then he continued to ask, “So much so, can I even expect you to protect us and the rest of our civilians from one Kobalos or the enemies on the outside?”

As this point was put to him, Captain Lawrence shook as he looked about in panicked thought. Then, quickly, he replied, “I'll discipline them! I'll intensify the training and make them do more security rounds, I promise they won't be sloppy anymore, we'll-!”

“Enough!” Stopping him again from prattling, Magnifico looked at him quietly. The poor Captain looked like a wide-eyed frog staring at a sinister snake.

This made Magnifico smile, then casting a knowing look in Amaya's direction, she had a similar cunning smirk, and as he did, he decided to put their plans into motion, “I think if things are going to improve, I'm going to need to step in!”

Baffled, Captain Lawrence asked him, “What do you mean, your Majesty?”

“It means I'd like to have talks with your men, but for tonight one in particular.” Then, getting up and out of bed, he moved over to Lawrence and told him, “Later after the sun has fully set, when I and my darling are ready, you will have Jensen come meet me.” Then, peering into his fearful eyes with a smile, Magnfico asked him, narrowing his eyes, “Do you understand, Captain?”

He shook, then gulped again and replied, “Yes, yes of course, Sir!” Then he asked, “Um, but may I ask Sir, what will you and he-!”

“You may not!” Magnifico replied, then told him, “Now go, be on your way and see my order be carried out!”

Immediately, Lawrence saluted and replied, “Yes Sir!” Then he went to the door, but before he entirely left-!

“Have a good night Captain!” This made him turn around and stare at him, baffled; as he did, he smiled more and added, “I trust you won't be slacking will you?”

“Oh, never Sir! Absolutely!” He replied, and he was off and out the door.

Seeing him leave, Magnifico's smile remained, and then he heard,

“You really do have a way with people don't you?”

Turning around and seeing Amaya in the bed, he replied with a shrug of his shoulders, “Oh, I try!” Then, walking over, he held his hand out to her and asked, “Now, why don't we begin in making all our dreams come true?”

Silent, Amaya then smiled and replied, “I could think of nothing better!” With that, she took his hand carrying Charo with her, and he led her out of the bed and, together, prepared for the beginning of their immense endeavour.

X X X X X X X X

“Is this the last of everything we need?”

Hearing Asterix's question as she continued dishing out the rest of the food they'd eat that night, Asha, looking at him, said with a smile, “Yeah you got it all, well done, Asterix!”

He nodded happily, then walked and delivered everything to the table, where Dahlia and Simon were ready to help. Her Grandfather was sitting with them, along with Valentino.

Then, brushing some olive oil over the bread before her, Asha smiled and then, reaching her hand into a nearby bowl, she went to sprinkle some herbs over them, when-

“So, cute and blonde is your kinda taste, huh?”

Freezing, Asha looked over and saw Levi, the other person who'd stayed to help her in the Kitchen.

She looked at her with a cheeky smile and said, “Its good to see you getting bolder now!”

Asha became confused and embarrassed, “Um, what do you mean?”

“Well the fact you've finally brought someone other than childhood friends home!” Levi smiled, then stirred some balsamic vinaigrette sauce. She continued, “Honestly, I was worried you were going to be a homebody for the rest of your life, and never take a risk!”

As she said this, Asha was saddened and replied, “...Well it's not like I chose to be this way, I have to be careful.” She replied, then sprinkling the herbs on the bread, she continued, “I mean I have Grandpa to consider, and its so easy to upset people in the kingdom now, and if its Magnifico then-!”

“That doesn't mean you don't deserve to live!” Levi countered.

Looking at her, Asha stayed quiet and heard her say, “I mean sure you've got responsibilities, but you shouldn't let that get in the way of living!” Levi told her, then finished the sauce. She walked over and continued, “Otherwise your good years will be over before you know it!” Then patting her shoulder, “I don't want you to be held back like I've been and become a crusty old biddy like me.”

Silent as she said this, Asha looked down and replied, “Well, I'll try harder in the future if I can...” However, looking at Levi, she told her, “But you're not that Levi, you shouldn't call yourself that!”

“Oh, really?” The older woman asked, then she enquired, “What do you think I am then?”

Quiet, Asha then told her with a smile, “The sweet Auntie I never got to have.”

Levi stared at her, surprised, but then she laughed, “Oh, look at you! Getting all soft on me!” Then she smirked, “Are you expecting me to make a Ricotta pie for you now?”

“Only if you'd want to!” Asha smiled again, which gained her another pat from Levi.

“Are we having pie too!?”

Hearing the excited question, Asha saw with Levi that Asterix had returned, and he looked excited at the prospect of dessert.

Staring at him quietly, Levi chuckled and asked, “Oh, a glutton are ya?”

“Yeah I love food!” Asterix replied, “It's so good compared to-!”

Then quickly Asha stopped him, making an 'X' with her hands again, shaking her head rapidly. As she did this, Asterix stopped and said, “Um, where I came from in England!”

“Oh? That's where you originate from is it?” Levi asked.

Asha sighed in relief that she'd stopped Asterix again, but then she heard, “You know that reminds me, I met someone from there today.”

Surprised, Asha looked at her and asked, “You did Levi?”

With a nod, she replied, “Yeah,” then she got the bowl of sauce and explained, “A curly ginger leading the soldiers, I met them along the way earlier while I was getting on with things.”

Puzzled, Asha asked, “The soldiers were here in the Hamlet?”

“A few of them!” Levi explained, then she continued after getting the bread platter in her other hand, “Apparently they're looking for some Kobalos thing that's causing trouble, they said it might be somewhere in the woods and they asked me about it.”

Asha and Asterix instantly looked uncomfortable as they gazed at each other momentarily. A little uneasy, Asha asked, “Have you seen any sign of something like that Levi?”

“Nah! Not as far as I know!” She replied, then with a shrug of her shoulders, she said, “I haven't seen any gold littering anywhere or heard any manic laughter.” However, she did smile and say, “Other than the laughs you two tried to hide from me yesterday.”

Then, remembering again, Asha replied, “Oh, yeah that's true...” Then she asked, “Are they still in the woods right now do you think?”

“Nope, they all took off as the sun was beginning to set,” then with a sigh, she added, “It's a shame really, I was hoping to talk to that Captain again, I couldn't help but think he looked a bit dashing!” However, with a shrug of her shoulders, she said, “C'est la vie!” Then, with that, she went to deliver the food.

As she left, Asterix, who'd been silent till that moment, said, “Well it's a good thing we stayed here for the whole day!” Then, scratching the back of his hatted head, he said with an awkward laugh, “I wouldn't like to be chased around again!”

Asha agreed and said, “Yeah same.” But again, she told him, “You see this is why you need to be careful.” Then, when she got the stew pot, she said, “You never know what might happen if the wrong person finds you out.”

“Yeah true...” He agreed; however, smiling, he told her brightly, “But we're safe and that's what matters, and even better we have a show ready for tomorrow right?”

Seeing he was trying to lighten the mood, Asha was quiet momentarily before she nodded and replied, “Yeah, that's true!” Then smiling, she added, “I'm glad we've all been able to hang out together and work on it.”

“Same!” Asterix smiled, then he looked about and asked her, “Is there anything else I can do to help out here for dinner?”

Quiet as she heard this question, Asha thought and replied, “Oh, could you bring the jug of water with you? My hands are full now.”

“Sure of course!” Asterix smiled, and with that, he went to get it.

Seeing him do this, Asha, like him, didn't want to dwell on the awful possibilities right then that could happen if they messed up, for like Levi said, they should enjoy the moment now, not squander it with feelings of foreboding.

So, with a nod, she went to leave with the pot. However, before fully entering, she saw again, “Levi?”

The woman had returned, and looking at her, she asked, “I was just coming back to make sure you hadn't forgotten anything, do you-?”

“Oh, hi Miss Levi!” Then Asterix walked over with the jug and stood near Asha as he did. He asked, “Is everything alright in there?”

The woman was quiet, staring at Asterix and looking back at Asha. She remained still, but then, with a shake of her head, she smiled and said, “Nah, we're good don't worry!” Then, standing aside, she said, “Now, let's eat shall we?”

“Yeah good plan!” Asterix smiled, and with that, he walked past her.

Asha smiled at his eagerness, but as she passed Levi, she heard her say, “You've really scored!”

Baffled, she wondered what she meant. However, she'd had to ask her later, for she couldn't let the stew get cold and with that, everyone sat down to eat the meal they had all prepared together and enjoyed themselves!

X X X X X X X X

“Ohhh!”

With a big satisfied sigh, Asterix uttered brightly, patting his middle, “That was great! I think that's one of the best meals I've had ever!”

Laughing, Simon told him, “You're exaggerating!” But he couldn't deny it and said, “But it definitely filled up something inside!” Looking over to Asha, he told her, “Thanks for the meal Asha!”

“You're welcome!” She smiled while gathering the used dishes with Levi and Dahlia. Then, as she picked up another bowl, she told them, “But you guys all helped out too, I couldn't have made this as great without you all!”

“Glad to see you've recognised my cooking skills!” Dahlia smirked, but before Simon could say a word to stop her, she continued, “But don't worry about it! Making something small like this is nothing compared to working in the castle's kitchens!”

“I can imagine!” Levi replied with a laugh, then she added, “If I knew everyone was gathering I should have brought my nephew Safi! He would have enjoyed this!” But then she added after some thought, “If he could fight through his allergies that is!”

Asha agreed saying, “Yeah, that would have been nice!”

Levi smiled and then asked, “So? You all have this show ready for tomorrow then?”

With a nod, Asha confirmed this, “Yeah, just about!”

But Dahlia revealed, “But I feel it's still lacking something!”

Pausing in her gathering, Levi asked, “Something like what?”

“That's what I don't know!” With a sigh, Dahlia replied, “I wish I could figure it out somehow.”

Listening to them, her Grandfather spoke up and said, “I don't feel it was too bad, are you sure about your thoughts Dahlia?”

Silent, she then pouted and replied, “Of course I am! Otherwise I wouldn't be feeling it!”

Clearly, nobody knew what to say to this as an awkward silence began to grow; however, breaking it before it became more uncomfortable, Levi said, “Well, why don't I have a look at it?”

Surprised, Asha asked, “You want to see it Levi?”

“Of course I do!” She replied, then added, “Otherwise why would I have bothered to come tonight? I'm here to make sure both me and your Grandpa can see it!”

“BBBAAA!

Hearing this outraged bleat, Levi looked down and saw Valentino staring up at her madly.

Quiet, she sighed and reluctantly corrected herself, saying, “And I guess our silly billy too.” However, she did add with a critical eye, “If he behaves!”

“Baa! Baa!” He replied in total defiance.

All Asha could do was laugh awkwardly at this interaction, for again, it was the same as ever. But deciding to be brighter, she said, “Well, alright why not?”

Surprised now himself, Simon asked her, “You wanna go again?”

With a nod, Asha replied, “Yeah I'm ready to!” Then she added, “We can call this one the final rehearsal, and if Levi's pleased!” Looking at her, she said, “We'll know we're ready for the audience in the arena tomorrow.”

Hearing this, Dahlia smiled, “Yeah, that sounds good to me!” Then, stretching out her arms and hands, flexing her fingers, she declared, “Alright crew! You heard our star let's do this!”

Sighing, Simon said tiredly, “I was really hoping we were done for today!”

But then Asterix, getting up, told him with a pat on the shoulder, “C'mon Simon we can do it!” Then, smiling brightly, he added, “After all! There's no better guy with a sword than you here right now, right?”

He looked surprised by these words, but then, with a slight smile, he replied, “I guess!” Then, getting up, he told everyone, “Okay! Let's get this last act done!”

Asha was pleased by his words, and with that, after putting all the used dishes in the Kitchen, everyone headed out of the cottage to get everything ready; as she held the door again, she heard Levi say as she helped her Grandfather out, “This should be a thrill!”

Asha hoped it would be for her, and with that, she shut the door and got ready with her friends!

X X X X X X X X

Seeing the moon glowing in the night sky, Magnifico smiled, appropriately dressed within the audience hall, and smirked, “Yes, this is the perfect atmosphere now!” And as he said those words-!

GLOOM!

One of the Lividus came through the floor, appearing from a swirl of darkness. It whirled around to him, hovered over his shoulder, and whispered quietly into his ear...

Hearing their words, his smile grew, and he said, “Fantastic! Well done!” He told it, then-!

KNOCK! KNOCK! KNOCK!

He heard knocks on one of the doors, staying quiet. He heard Captain Lawrence's familiar voice.

“Your Majesty, we're both here now!”

“We have company!” Magnifico said, and then the Lividus lifted itself away from his ear. As it floated in the air sinisterly, he commanded, “Go back down below and wait for me with my wife,” then, smiling eagerly, he added, “You're soon going to get a taste of what we have in store for you and our people!”

It lifted its vaporous arm to its chest and bowed slightly before diving back through the floor using another dark portal. Magnifico waited until it vanished before turning and calling, “You can come in now!”

Looking at the door, he heard it creak open, and Captain Lawrence appeared again, but this time beside him was his chipper recruit, Jensen.

Magnifico heard Captain Lawrence say as he held it open, “Now remember what I told you! On your best behaviour understand!”

Silent, Jensen walked through the door but then turned and saluted to him with a smile, saying, “Absolutely boss!”

Captain Lawrence groaned, then he told him, “Just try not to call his Majesty that alright?”

“Okay!” He said casually.

With a shake of his head, he began to close the door, but before leaving, he said, “Goodnight your Majesty!”

“Goodnight!” He returned, and then, with that, Captain Lawrence was on his way.

…

Magnifico remained silent as Jensen approached him. Then, standing a couple of feet away from him, the curly, blonde-haired, pony-tailed young man saluted and said with a smile, “Hey, your Majesty I heard you needed me?”

Silent, seeing his cheery demeanour, Magnifico couldn't understand how he could be this way. He'd taken his Wish a few years ago, but deciding not to dwell on this fact, he replied, “Indeed I do!” Then smiling again, he said, “I require you for a little spell of mine, if you'll indulge me?”

Momentarily, Jensen lost his smile and asked, “A spell?”

With a nod, Magnifico then told him, “Yes! Quite an amazing one actually!” Then, lifting his arm, he continued, “It'll help you unlock your unfulfilled potential!” With that, he gripped his fist tightly.

Jensen stared at him in amazement, and then he quickly became excited and said, “Oh! That's sounds terrific!”

Smiling, Magnifico replied, “I'm glad you're so eager now!” Then, with that, he began to walk forward, and as he did, he told him, “Now come along! You don't want to delay your marvel do you?”

Still smiling, Jensen quickly shook his head, and eagerly, like a puppy, he followed after his King to help him realise his spell.

X X X X X X X X

“And at last! They finally found what they truly wanted to be!”

…

Again, the silence returned, and Asha's Grandfather didn't applaud this time. Uneasy, she looked at Levi, who looked on with wide amazed eyes. As she did, she asked her, “What do you think?” Then, looking around herself and at the others who performed, she continued, “Is Dahlia right? Are we missing something?”

Levi was silent as she folded her arms. She was quiet in thought for a moment before she said, “Well honestly I don't think there's anything wrong with the performance per say.”

As she said this, Dahlia though picked up on her words and said, “But you agree with me right, it's missing something isn't it?”

“Hmm...” Levi didn't immediately reply, but after some more thought, she said, “I suppose so? It may need just a little something, if you want an encore I think.”

Looking worried, Asterix asked her, “Like what?”

Levi again didn't answer immediately, but then after a bit. It seemed something came, and she said, smacking a clenched fist into her palm, “Something flashy!”

Baffled, everyone stared at her, and then Simon asked, “Flashy?”

“Yeah! Something big with light, something to make a spectacle! I'm sure you'd get a whole lot of applause then!” With that, looking at her, Levi asked her, “Do you have any spells you could do like that Asha?”

Quiet as this was put to her, Asha became quiet and replied, “Um, maybe?” Then, as she thought to herself, she realised, “Wait! Light magic! I could do something with that!”

“Really you could!?” Dahlia asked, amazed.

“Sure she could!” Asterix smiled, then he added, “Asha has a great imagination! I'm sure she could conjure something amazing for us!”

Surprised to hear this praise from him, Asha stilled. Then she saw him turn to her with his warm, bright smile, and as he did, he told her, “Go on, Asha! Let's see what you can make!”

“Uh!” Now feeling on the spot as everyone turned their eyes to gaze at her, she felt awfully nervous. She became uncertain for a moment; however, looking at Asterix, she saw him nod encouragingly.

Seeing him do this, her heart warmed at the sight. Then, taking a deep breath, she closed her eyes and said, “Okay, okay... I'll try and think of something!” With that, she searched through her memories, and the imagery quickly came to her as she did.

The last celebratory night she ever got to experience with her parents. Looking up into the night sky, she remembered the incredible spectacle that bloomed wonderfully into the starry Heavens.

Lifting her hands, she felt the warmth of that memory ignite the light she shone with inside. Twirling in place, Asha let the glowing orbs she imagined dance and move as she directed them silently to become the shapes she wanted them to be in the night sky.

She then recited the words she felt would let the spell ignite into the skies above, a silly yet warm spell that she hoped would thrill everyone,

“Bibbidi-bobbidi-Boom!!!!”

SHINE!!!

Amazed as she opened her eyes, she saw the spell take off from within her hands! It raced high into the sky above and then-!

BBBOOOMMM!!!!

The light exploded into a blossoming flower, and seeing it as it shone with many colours, she realised what she'd created. “Fireworks?”

BBBOOOMMM!!!! BBBOOOMMM!!!!

Then, more wondrous glittery flowers shone in the sky! Everyone was awestruck like Asha was, then Levi, with her hand over her eyes, cried, “Wow! Now that's a sight!” Then-!

KKKAAABBBOOOMMM!!!!

The biggest and most gorgeous one unfurled above them, and quickly, little sparkles of light drifted down everywhere! Asha couldn't believe her eyes! She'd really done this?

“Amazing!” Simon cried, astonished, as some of the sparkles fell on him. He couldn't help but take a few between his fingers and rub them.

Asha couldn't help but smile at this, then-!

“Asha!”

Distracted from her observation, she saw Dahlia quickly approach. Her head was lowered, so she couldn't see her expression. But then, she saw her suddenly put her hands on her shoulders!

Jumping at this, she didn't know what she was doing and asked, “Uh, Dahlia, what're-?”

“You've done it!”

“Huh?”

Dahlia lifted her face and smiled with tears of relief in her eyes. She told her, “You did it! You found the missing part we needed for the act!” Then suddenly, she wrapped her arms around her and cried, “You're the best!”

Astounded, Asha didn't know how to react. But then, feeling Dahlia whimper with emotion, she chuckled awkwardly and patted her back, saying, “Aww it's okay! Don't worry! I'm just glad it worked!”

“It didn't only just work!”

Again, Asha's attention was drawn elsewhere, and she saw Asterix standing near her and Dahlia. Seeing him, she heard her Star Boy tell her, smiling warmly, “It was spectacular! You really shined there Asha! Well done!”

“Baa!” Then Valentino ran up and proceeded to add, “Baa! Baa! Baa!”

Quiet, Asha couldn't understand, but then Asterix laughed and picked up the mischievous kid, “And I think he's saying you've got the makings of greatness in you!”

“Bah!” He seemed to confirm.

“Well done Asha!” Then she saw her Grandfather applaud, too; he added, “That was amazing, Pumpkin! I'm so proud!”

Hearing all this praise, Asha's heart rushed warmly again, and like Dahlia, she couldn't help but tear up a little, too. She nodded at them and held her friend until she finally calmed down along with herself.

X X X X X X X X

Sighing, Simon clicked his shoulders and said, “Okay, I think we're done for tonight, I'm absolutely tired!”

“Yeah, ditto!” Dahlia smiled, then looked at her friend and told her, “We'll see you tomorrow, Asha!”

Nodding, she told them, “Yeah! I'll see you guys then, I hope you sleep well!”

“You too!” Simon replied, then added, “Try to relax as much as you can, okay?”

Asha stilled; she wasn't sure she could do it too well as she fiddled with her thumbs. However, she did not want to worry them, saying, “Alright, I'll try!”

They both nodded, and then Asterix told them, “See you later guys!”

“Yeah later!” Dahlia replied, and then, with a last wave from Simon, they travelled back towards Rosa with a lantern in hand.

Seeing them leave, Asha was so grateful to have them as friends. Then, looking at Asterix by her side, she couldn't help but admire him again. For without him, none of this could have ever been possible.

Then, as he turned his wondrous eyes her way, she heard him ask, “Are you alright, Asha?”

Her heart raced again. Lowering her head, she tried to hide her blush and replied, “Um, I guess I'm nervous a bit...” Then, holding her dress, she continued, “After all the performance is tomorrow now, and I can't help but feel a bit jittery, y'know?”

He said nothing immediately, but she finally heard, “Would you like me to help you relax?”

“Huh?” Surprised, she looked up.

Before her, Asterix smiled warmly with his hand outstretched to her. He asked her gently, “We could go somewhere quiet together if you'd like, maybe that will help?”

Amazed, he suggested this. If she was alone with him, Asha didn't know if her heart could handle it now! However, another part didn't want to refuse this opportunity to be with him, so after a moment, she nodded and replied, “Sure, okay, why not?”

“Great!” He replied. With that, Asha took his hand, and they began to walk away from the cottage together when-!

“BBBAAA!”

Nearly leaping out of her skin, she turned and then saw, to her dismay, Valentino running to catch up to them. They really couldn't escape him, could they? But then-!

“Oh, no you don't!”

GRAB!

“BAH!”

Suddenly intervening before he could fully give chase, Levi quickly caught up and caught the interrupting kid by the scruff of his yellow PJs!

“It's way past your bedtime you troublemaker! You're not getting away from me tonight!” Levi told him, annoyed.

“BAH!” Protested loudly at his rude capture.

Surprised by this intervention, Asha asked her, “Levi are you-?”

“Honestly! You dummies!” Then the older woman walked over and said, “You think you're gonna get that far without a lantern to help!” She passed over the one she had brought with her to Asterix. She continued, “Seriously! The last thing we need here for you both is to be spirited away!”

Quiet at this declaration, Asha laughed awkwardly and replied, “Yeah sorry,” looking up at her, she said, “Thanks Levi!”

The older woman nodded, adding, “Now you two don't stay out too late!” Looking behind, she said, “Your Grandpa doesn't want you both out past midnight!”

Hearing this, Asha saw her Grandfather wave from the front door with a smile; as she did, she nodded happily back.

In turn, Levi looked back at them and asked, “Alright?”

Asha then told her, “That's fine!”

“Yeah! We can do that!” Asterix confirmed, smiling too.

Studying them momentarily, Levi nodded and said, “Good!” Then she moved back a bit and, with a wave of her hand, said, “Asha come over here for a moment will you?”

“Uh, sure, okay?” She replied, then letting go of Asterix. She walked over to Levi, and as she did, the older woman manoeuvred her to get out of her Star Boy's eyeline by standing before her.

Asha was puzzled, but before she could ask, Levi moved closer to her ear and whispered, “Congrats! I think he's at least an eight out of ten!”

“Huh!?” Asha didn't understand her and whispered back, “What do you mean?”

“I mean he's a real little charmer! You've scored real big!” Levi told her proudly.

She was not expecting that compliment, then she couldn't help but ask, “Why not a solid ten?”

“The boy needs more muscle! Could be a bit taller too!” Levi replied, however, bringing up a thumbs up. She said, “But you've got a real sweetie here! And that's what's more important!” She finished with a wink.

Hearing this, Asha stilled and then couldn't help but laugh.

This made Levi smile more, but before they could say another word, they heard,

“BBBAAA! BBBAAA! BBBAAA!”

It was then Valentino bleated loudly, outraged at being forgotten like this!

“Urgh!” Levi groaned, and then she said, “Well I better get going with our kid here!” She said, taking him back with her towards the cottage. She told Asha, “You kids enjoy your time together, okay?”

Asha smiled warmly and replied, “We will don't worry!”

Levi smiled all the more, and with that, she took Valentino with her back to the cottage. The kid swung back and forth in her hand, folding his arms, mad in deep frustration at being left out of the antics Asha and Asterix would get up to!

Seeing them go, Asha quickly returned to her Star Boy and asked him, “Are you ready to go, Asterix?”

He smiled and replied, “Sure of course!” But curious, he asked her, “What were you and Levi laughing about? Did you hear a funny joke or something?”

“Something like that!” Asha smiled, then taking his hand, she told him, “C'mon let's go!”

He nodded his happy reply, and then they walked off into the forest to enjoy some quiet moments together so they could relax before the big epic show that would take place tomorrow.

X X X X X X X X

After walking through dark passages and down countless stairs, Magnifico finally arrived with Jensen. They entered his dark magical chamber, which contained the mighty magical books and treasures left to him by his Master.

Inside, he found Amaya already waiting for him with Charo, standing by their enormous dark cauldron that was bubbling with a pale blue concoction that illuminated the room, whose vapours seemed to burn rather than mist.

Seeing him, she smiled and said, “Welcome dear!”

“Thank you Amaya!” He told her, then walking up to her, he took one of her hands and kissed it. Then, looking at her, he asked, “Do you have it?”

“Of course!” She smiled, and then she revealed their newly created treasure.

In her free hand, floating in her palm, was their new device. A Prism of Darkness.

It was a sharpened, ovoid-shaped, black-coloured crystal; it was thin but thicker in the middle, and as it turned, one could see glimmers of something sinister swarming in its centre.

Amazed seeing it, Magnifico couldn't hide his excitement and grinned eagerly at it; he uttered, impressed, “Marvellous!” Then, taking it from Amaya's hand and having it float between his palms, he asked her, “Did you make sure that they followed my instructions precisely?”

With a proud nod, she told him, “Yes! I made absolutely sure, it can transform to spread their influence any distance we wish!”

This was all he needed to hear, “Fantastic!”

“Um, excuse me?”

Taken out of their conversation, Magnifico and Amaya turned to look at Jensen. He looked baffled and asked, “What is that thing exactly?”

Quiet, seeing his clueless state. Magnifico smirked and replied, “Oh, you'll see soon boy!” Then, letting Amaya hold the prism again momentarily, he moved and raised his hands and said, “Now, why don't you take a seat?”

CLAP! CLAP!

“Whoa!?”

Suddenly, Jensen was lifted off his feet, and an old wooden chair in the corner of the room came up and hoisted him onto it.

As he sat in it, Jensen was startled. Looking at Magnifico, he asked him, “Um, are we doing that thing you said we were going to do now?”

“Oh, yes!” Magnifico told him, retaking the Prism from Amaya, he told him, “You're going to go through a most wondrous transformation!” Grinning eagerly, he added, “You're going to become our guinea pig!”

Silent as he heard this, Jensen blinked and asked, “Uh, just one thing Sir?”

“What is it?” Magnifico replied.

“Could you make sure I'm not purple?” Jensen said.

Baffled momentarily, Magnifico then repeated, puzzled, “Purple?”

With a nod, Jensen told him, “Yeah, you see it's not my favourite colour, so I'm happy to become any animal you want, just as long as its not in that shade.”

Silent, Magnifico couldn't believe him! Then he couldn't help but laugh, this was ridiculous! “Of all things you'd request! I haven't heard anything that hilarious in ages!” With that, he had to put a free hand to his mouth and say, “You certainly do lighten the atmosphere, even without your Wish in your heart!”

Hearing this, Jensen was still. Then he looked down and said, “Well yeah, but I have to be.” Then, gripping the arms of his chair, he continued, “If I don't try to put a smile on, it just hurts me more deep down... I can't not just do anything against that emptiness can I? After all we're all still caught in the midst of war aren't we?”

“I suppose so?” Magnifico replied, then recovering, he said, “I wouldn't know now.”

“Huh?” Jensen became puzzled.

“But anyway, I thank you for the laughs there young Jensen!” Then he added in a mocking tone, “Though sadly, these will be the first and the last you will ever give me.”

Jensen looked spooked and asked cautiously, “Um, what do you mean, your Majesty?”

Magnifico didn't reply. Instead, he swiftly moved his free hand out in his direction and-!

SNAP! SNAP!

The chair Jensen was on manacled his wrists to its arms with heavy iron cuffs! The young man was terrified and cried, “What is this!?”

“The beginning of your transformation!” Magnifico revealed, then moving his free hand above himself, he cried, “My Lividus bring me the feather, now!”

GLOOM!

At once, one of the sinister spirits emerged, carrying the golden feather of the Star Child. It passed it to him, then taking it into his palm he focused hard and-!

FLASH!

Crushed it in his brutal grip, which glowed violently with his power! As it did, the feather lost its form and became a small cloud of twinkling gold dust that he then waved over the Prism of Darkness, and as he did-!

GLOW!!!

It lit up and began to glow maliciously with the gold power of the Star Child now trapped within it. It started to spin in his hand with a new life!

As it did so, Magnifico then moved closer with the sinister device in his palm, with the Lividus who had brought it to him hovering over his shoulder. As Jensen struggled desperately against his restraints, terrified at the sight of the living crystal and wicked spirit, he heard the wicked sorcerer say, “Now hold still boy!” And with that declaration, his transformation began!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

1 note · View note

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 19

(*(Chapter Nineteen)*)

“Urgh! C'mon!”

Hearing Asha cry this out, Asterix continued to be instructed by Sabino. He stilled his Mandolin playing, then looked in her direction and saw what she was up to.

He saw her hands hovering over an old rusty lock on the other side of the table. She had one of the most focused looks he'd ever seen, and she even sweated at the endeavour she was undertaking.

She'd been doing this for the last couple of hours and hadn't achieved what she wanted at all. Even as she glowed vibrantly all over with her magical blue power, trying hard to find words that work, but even with all that concentration-!

“Unlock you dumb lock!”

…

She clearly wasn't getting anywhere!

“Ohhh!” Her power quickly ebbed away, as it did with a dejected look; she uttered, slumping back in her chair, “It's hopeless!”

Laughing awkwardly at this reaction, Asterix uttered, “I guess... you're struggling, huh? Asha?”

“Hmm?” Curious, Sabino asked, “You're struggling Pumpkin?”

Not moving, she replied sadly, “Yes...!”

Quiet, Asterix then put the Mandolin down. Walking over to her, he picked up the lock in question and asked, “So you're trying to master your last art, huh?”

“Obviously!” she replied, irritated. Then, with a sigh, she said, “I thought I'd just be able to get the hang of it! By just trying to find the right words or use my imagination, but...!” However, she despaired again, saying, “But I just can't! Nothing's working, no matter how hard I've tried!”

Seeing her stress, Asterix replied stiffly, “Yeah I can see that.”

Concerned, Sabino walked over, sat beside her, put a hand on her shoulder, and asked, “Why're you finding it so difficult, sweetheart?”

Sighing, Asha replied, “I don't know!” Then with a hand to her head, she said, “I mean, with the other spells I can do now, I just needed to find the right feelings to find the words inside, but this lock is...” Then, staring at it as it stayed in Asterix's hands, she said, “I've got nothing to work with, in my memories or feelings, I don't know what to do!”

Quiet, Asterix couldn't help but chuckle at her desperate state and replied, “I see!”

Asha looked at him fast with annoyance.

Then, coughing, he quickly worked to change the mood and said, “Well, maybe it's just not your speciality, Asha.”

Pausing in shock, she asked him, “Wait. What do you mean?”

Holding the lock, Asterix sat on the chair on Asha's and her Grandfather's opposite side. As he did, he explained, “I was told back home, that people have specialities in magic in different fields.”

“Like the colours of magic?” Sabino asked, curious.

Surprised, Asterix asked, “Oh, you were told about that?”

With a nod, Sabino smiled and said, “Yes, Asha explained it to me.” He told her, gently patting her shoulder, making her look at him with a troubled smile.

“I see!” Asterix smiled, then looked down at the lock. He continued, “Well, people not only have a colour that defines them, but there's also the category of specialising with either living or unliving properties.”

Baffled, Asha asked, “There is?”

With a nod, Asterix continued, “Yes, some people have greater ability to manipulate things that are already living in some way, like plants and other things that have life in them.”

“Oh, I see?” Sabino replied with a hand to his chin, then asked, “And someone better with unliving magic can do what?”

“They're better at controlling and manipulating things that don't have living elements in them, like metals and elements, such as fire for example!” Asterix revealed.

“Really!?” Asha cried. Looking at the lock, she asked, “So the reason I'm having so much difficulty with this lock is because-?”

“It's not your speciality,” Asterix told her.

Asha was still, then looking depressed, she said, “...So it's impossible then? I can never unlock anything?”

Hearing this, Asterix then cried, worried, “Oh, no! No, that's not what I meant at all!”

“Huh?”

Asha looked up at him silently. He explained, “What I mean is, your speciality might make it difficult for you, but you should be able to do unlocking magic eventually!” With that, he put the lock on the table, then pushed it over to her, and he said, “It's just probably going to take you a bit longer than the other spells you've learned.”

As he said this, he hoped it would be enough to cheer her up. However, though Asha seemed a little more comforted, she asked with an uneasy voice, “How long do you think?”

“Um...?” Even Asterix tensed, then with a calculation of his fingers, he said, “Maybe a month, a few years at most? If you get a better feel for metal, you might-!”

“I've only got today!” She cried, then sweated more as she said, “And barely the morning tomorrow!” With her hands to her head, she said, “I'll never impress Lord Magnifico! Then if I don't fully become his apprentice I-!”

She then entirely fell onto the table, her head held in her arms in complete despair.

Seeing this, Asterix felt awful for her. His attempt to cheer her up had utterly backfired!

“Oh, Pumpkin!” Sabino said, trying to comfort her with a hand on her back. As he did this, Asterix stared at this caring act. He didn't know what to say, then sadly looked down at the table.

“Is there truly nothing we can do about this?” Sabino asked, worried.

Looking at them, Asterix heard Asha say, shaking her head in her arms, “No... I have to make everyone smile with my magic in the show! If I can't do that then...!” She sounded near to tears.

Asterix, quiet hearing this, became depressed himself. If he couldn't help her achieve her Wish, then-!

But wait, something occurred to him, “Asha, wait a minute!”

“Huh?” Lifting her head out of her arms, she uttered with teary eyes, “What is it?”

“What did Magnifico say to you exactly?” Asterix asked her, “Did you have to absolutely learn all your spells for the show?”

“What?” She uttered, perplexed.

“Did he tell you to do that? That you needed to master all five by the show!” Asterix asked her, desperate to see if what he realised was true.

“Um?” Asha looked shocked. Then, as she stilled in thought, she said, “...No, he didn't!” Then, her eyes shining in realisation, she said, “He told me I just need to make everyone smile, and my probation will be done with!”

Amazed, Asterix cried, “YES!” Relieved, he told her, “See there's no need for you to despair! If you perform well tomorrow, you'll be totally secure!”

Blinking in disbelief, she asked, “I will?” Still, as the truth settled into her mind, she said, “You're right, I will!” Then, lying back in her chair, she cried, “Oh, thank goodness! I'm so glad!” Then, instead of tears of despair, she cried with relief.

“Fantastic Pumpkin! What good luck!” Sabino said happily. Then he turned and told him, “You really can brighten any situation, can't you, Asterix?”

Quiet, he replied with an embarrassed smile, “Oh, well I try!”

“He always does!” Surprised, he heard Asha say with a grateful smile, “He's my star that chases away the darkness.”

Astounded at this compliment, Asterix was quiet. Then, quickly, he felt that fluttery, warm feeling rush within him. He quickly had to hide away his chest, lest any of his shine be noticed from his crystal heart. He then laughed awkwardly and said, “Um, thanks!”

Asha smiled at this, and then, still as she relaxed, she said, “I wish I didn't stress myself out for nothing!”

“Oh, you're only human sweetie!” Sabino laughed.

“Bah!” Valentino agreed, then before he could say anything else-!

“We're here!!!!”

Spooked, it was then that Asterix saw with the others, “Dahlia! Simon!” Indeed, Asha's friends arrived through the front door!

As Dahlia walked through, looking like she owned the place as she put her red cloak up, Simon behind her couldn't help but ask, “Couldn't you have at least knocked?”

“You're seriously going to moan at me for that?” Dahlia asked him sceptically. When she walked over to the table, she said, “You and I are practically extended members of the family!” Then, sitting in a chair, she added, “Besides! Asha already knew we were coming anyway! So what's the big deal?”

Sighing, Simon walked over and revealed after putting away his green cloak, “Manners, courtesy?” Then he sat down too and said, “Things that show you're a gracious guest.”

Annoyed, she replied, with a hand under her chin, and said, “You are such a fuddy-duddy! Lighten up, will you?”

Seeing their usual interaction, Asterix smiled awkwardly, while Asha laughed and Sabino did the same. Then the older man said, “My goodness! It's been a good while! How've you both been?”

“I'm doing well, Mr. Sabino!” Dahlia smiled and added, “I'm just looking forward to the awesome performance tomorrow!” Then, flexing her hands, she smiled and concluded, “Where the fruits of my directing capabilities will be on full display!”

Surprised, Sabino chuckled and said, “I see!” Then, turning to their other new arrival, he asked, “And what about you Simon?”

Quickly, the green-clad young man looked troubled. Looking down, he replied simply, “Fine, I guess... I don't know?”

As he trailed off, he was clearly too uncomfortable to continue. Staring at him as he did this, Asterix could see the gloom surrounding him. It was oppressive, and he could tell it hurt Simon a lot - so much so that he wondered if he could even-!

“Oh, I'll get some tea!”

It was then that Asha spoke up. Standing up, she said, “Dahlia, Asterix, could you help me get out a few things?”

As this request was made of him, Asterix replied, “Oh, sure of course, Asha!” With that, he got up.

Then, as they moved towards the Kitchen, “Okay, I'm coming!” Dahlia got up to join them. However, before leaving, she moved over and squeezed Simon's shoulder quietly with a concerned look.

He looked at her surprised, then moved his hand up and silently thanked her. Then, after she finished, Dahlia walked past Asha and Asterix, telling them, “Okay! Let's get something nice, shall we?”

“Yeah, let's!” Asha agreed, then turned back and said, “We'll see you guys in a minute!”

Sabino nodded with a quiet smile while Simon watched after them. As Dahlia and Asha made it inside the Kitchen, Asterix looked back at him and saw he'd turned away, looking down sadly again. This made Valentino move over to him. He quietly tried to comfort him, putting his head on his knee.

Surprised to see this, Asterix saw Simon stroke him. He couldn't see his expression, but putting his hand over his crystal, he could only hope that maybe by the end of the day, he could cheer him up too, like he'd done for Asha. Then he went to catch up with the girls to assist them in fetching what they'd need for the tea.

X X X X X X X X

“And then BOOM! That's how we'll end the finale!”

Sabino was silent in awe with a slack jaw, then uttered, “My gracious!”

“I know! Pretty amazing, huh?” Dahlia asked him, her pride shining.

“Most certainly!” Sabino agreed, then looked over and said, “I'm sure you'll get your Apprenticeship now, Asha!”

Hearing this, still feeling nervous despite the reassurance that she'd realised thanks to Asterix, she replied, “Um, well that depends if I can even perform it!”

“What're you saying! Of course you will!” Dahlia assured her, then looking at the window, she added, “We just need this rain to calm down already!”

Magnifico's magical downpour was still outside. Seeing it through the windows, Simon agreed, saying, “Yeah, it'll be difficult to practise with a wet floor beneath us.” Then, blowing his tea, he said, “I guess we can just be grateful he didn't make lightning to go with it.”

Hearing this, Asha agreed, saying, “Yeah, I'd be way more nerves right now if we had to deal with that too.”

“I agree! It's the worst to fly through!” Asterix added, biting into a cookie that was in his hand.

“Fly?” Simon asked him, puzzled.

Freezing as he said this, Asha moved and quickly corrected him, saying, “Oh, Asterix means like having to sprint right through it, don't you?”

“Huh?” he stared at her, with the cookie dangling out of his mouth. He looked utterly clueless. Seeing the odd stares from everyone, he quickly became awkward and hurriedly agreed, saying, “Oh, yeah! Sorry! That is what I meant, I-!”

“Bah!”

Valentino quickly moved and kicked his back legs into Asterix's chair, making him rock forward suddenly!

“Hey!” He nearly tumbled straight onto the table, and his cookie fell out! Annoyed, he cried, “What did you do that for!?”

“Bah! Bah! Bah!” Valentino told him mad.

Silent, Asterix told him, “Hey! I'm not stupid!”

“Bah! Bah! Bah! Bah!” Valentino countered.

“I'm not blowing my cover either! I'm-!”

“You can talk to animals...?”

As Dahlia asked this and she saw everyone's reactions as they stared at Asterix, Asha panicked and thought about how they could recover from this! Quickly, she stepped in and said, “Oh, um! Uh, Asterix is just getting into character, that's all!”

Perplexed, Simon repeated, “Getting into character?”

“Yeah, that's right, um!” Then, her mind racing, she said a fast excuse, “So it'll be better when he plays his music in the show tomorrow!”

Hearing this information, Simon began to ask, “How does getting into character with animals help to-?”

“YOU CAN PLAY MUSIC!?” As Dahlia cried this out, she completely stole everyone's attention, as they stared at her in shock!

“Uh?” Seeing what had happened, Asterix replied, “Oh, yeah! I've been practising hard so I can assist tomorrow and...” Then he looked awkward before saying, “Well, I practise a lot with the forest animals when I play usually, so I feel like I can talk to them because of it?”

“Really?” Simon asked sceptically.

Asterix nodded, looking slightly uncomfortable.

“Why didn't you tell me sooner you can do that!?” Dahlia demanded.

Asha, hearing this, then spoke up and said for Asterix, “Well, you were so busy barking orders at us all last night that you didn't give us the time to even mention it.”

Staying silent as she was told this, Dahlia said madly, “That's no excuse!” Then, as everyone stared at her oddly, she folded her arms and said, “Now I gotta rethink what roles people can have!”

Asterix asked her uncertainly, “Did I even really have a role last night?”

“I was working on it!” Dahlia replied, then, annoyed after some thought, she sighed, “Well, if you're happy to just be the Musician, I can somehow make this work!”

“Um, okay...?” Asterix replied.

“You be won't disappointed by him!”

Then, surprised, everyone heard Sabino say, “After all he's had my instruction, so you'll have the best and ready Musician there is currently.”

Asha, amazed, then uttered, “Grandpa!”

“Mr. Sabino!” Asterix looked ecstatic as he asked, “You think I'm good enough to be on the stage now!”

“By the end of the day you should be with my help!” He laughed.

After some silence, Dahlia said, “Good, if he has Mr. Sabino's recommendation, then there's no need to fret now!”

Silent, Simon then told her, “You hadn't even thought about music up to this point! I think we should count ourselves lucky right now.”

“Don't you call me neglectful!” Dahlia told him, mad.

Then she watched them, bantering away like usual and feeling the happy atmosphere as she stared at everyone sitting at the table. Asha couldn't remember the last time everything felt so warm and cosy like this. It was a nice feeling, and she couldn't help but smile as she drank more tea.

SHINE...

Surprised, Asha turned and saw that the sun was beginning to shine outside the window. Feeling its warmth, she asked, “The rain's stopped?”

“About time!” Dahlia declared, then she added, “Honestly! The rain can be so annoying! It interferes with my creativity!”

“Really, that's sad.” Asterix said, looking outside, he said, “I think the rain has a beautiful sound to it.”

“Well you're starry-eyed so that's to be expected!” Dahlia told him, getting up.

Surprised, Asterix asked, “How did you realise!?”

Silent in bafflement, Dahlia stared at him and asked, “What?”

Asha worried if he'd been too weird again-!

“Pfft!” To her surprise, Simon released a laugh. He tried to stifle it as Dahlia looked at him, annoyed. This made him cough and say, “Oh, so sorry, Dahlia!”

This caused Asha to chuckle herself, for with Asterix around, Simon had been laughing more than he had in weeks!

As Dahlia stared at them, she said, “You guys are all weird!” Then, with a sigh, she said, “Okay, that's enough!”

CLAP! CLAP!

She was straight into director mode and declared, “Alright guys! Let's get out there and start practising!” Then she went straight to the front door!

As she left, Simon rolled his eyes and said, “There she goes again!”

“Yep!” Asha laughed, then got up and said, “We better get out there while the day's still young!”

“Good plan!” Simon replied, then got up and said, “See you in a minute!” With that, he was out the door, too!

“Oh, you're all going to practise now?” Sabino asked.

“Yeah, that's right Grandpa!” Asha confirmed.

“I see!” He replied.

“Would you like to watch us Mr. Sabino?” Asterix asked him.

The older man looked surprised and asked, “You'd be all right with me doing that?”

“Of course!” Asterix nodded, then said, “After all, like you said I'll need your instruction, right?”

Quiet, Sabino laughed and said, “Ah, looks like you're beginning to gain some wisdom, if you've realised that fact.”

Asterix only laughed, and with that, Sabino got up and said, “Alright, let's go out then!”

“I'll help you, Grandpa!” Asha told him, then put her hand on his back.

“Oh, thank you, Asha!” He told her.

She smiled; she was only too happy to help. Then she asked, “Asterix could you bring a chair out?”

“Sure!” He smiled and followed after her as he picked up a chair.

Then, as they began to walk to the door, Asha turned to look at him. As she did, she caught Asterix's eye and saw him mouth silently, 'Sorry about earlier!'

Surprised, she shook her head with a slight smile and quietly said, 'It's okay! Just be more careful!'

He nodded at this request. Asha was glad for this. The three of them went out into the garden and began to practise more of the play, with Asterix's cheerful music now joining the act!

X X X X X X X X

“C'mon! Get it up higher!”

Again, under the command of her intense directing, Asha was busy doing her best to get the new item she was levitating to go with the rest of the 'Character' they developed last night. Struggling with concentration, she kept her hands out; she asked, “Is this enough?”

“I'll see!” Dahlia replied, and again, she did the odd boxing with her fingers, walking around her, their creation and Simon, who was standing near it with his stick sword.

As she passed around them a few times, Asha shuffled closer to Simon and asked, “Do you know why she does that?”

He shrugged his shoulders and replied, “Not exactly.” Then, staring at her as she continued, he replied, “I'm guessing she just sees the stage better in her head when she makes that box?”

“Oh?”

“Alright! We're good!”

Asha's attention was drawn back to Dahlia's voice, and she told them, “It's just right!” Then, moving her commanding hand, she said, “Simon! Get to it! Let's see you do some sword moves!”

“Urgh...” He wasn't happy with this direction, then uttered, “Seriously! Of all things I'm going to be doing!”

Asha laughed awkwardly, for what they were doing next was never something she'd imagined they'd ever be doing in their lifetime!

However, getting into position and Simon too. Asha then concentrated and-!

GLOW!

She activated her magic and quietly uttered her spell, and then-!

“HHHAAA!!!”

Simon came running, and then quickly-!

CLASH! TIP! TAP! CLASH! TIP! TAP! CLASH! TIP! TAP!

Their character and he began to battle with their stick swords, and they parried each other in near-perfect sync. With fierce determination, one tried to take out the other. At least that's how Asha hoped it looked; she had no idea if it did or-!

“OOOHHH!!!”

Surprised, she heard her Grandfather as he sat in his chair. He looked on with wide-eyed amazement and cried, “Incredible!” Even Valentino looked enthralled by the performance as he sat in his lap.

Hearing his exclamation, Asha was quiet. But then she smiled happily, wondering if they'd been able to impress her Grandfather with this. Maybe they were on the right track?

“Okay! Halt!”

Immediately, Simon and their Character stopped. As they did, the once aspiring knight asked, annoyed, “Alright, what was wrong with that?”

Then, surprising even him, she said, “Nothing, you're fine!”

Asha couldn't believe it and asked, “You mean it, Dahlia?”

“Of course I do! Don't doubt me!” she replied, annoyed. Then, crossing her arms, she added, “You make it sound I'm never pleased with anything you do!”

“Well you don't help yourself!” Simon uttered, which immediately made Dahlia give him a dirty look.

Asha smiled awkwardly, praying this wouldn't end in an argument!

But instead, Dahlia turned her attention away from Simon and said, “Right! We're going to do this again from the top! But this time, we'll have music added!” Then, looking in the direction where Asterix was sitting, with Mandolin and Pick at the ready, she said, “Alright Mr. Musician you're up!”

Seemingly impressed by the mock fight, Asterix quickly replied, “Oh, right! Sure!” Then he got into position, and with that readying himself, he said, “I'm good to go now!”

“Great!” Dahlia smiled, looked at Asha and Simon and said, “Okay! Start again!”

Simon sighed, but then, readying his stick, he said, “Alright, Asha. Ready when you are!”

“Okay!” She replied and again-!

GLOW!

She glowed all over with her blue power again, and quickly; their character acted again and once more-!

CLASH! TIP! TAP! CLASH! TIP! TAP! CLASH! TIP! TAP!

Simon and it began to battle once more. With the same fierce determination, but with the music added with Asterix's playing, this time.

Listening to him as he played his piece, Asha could feel his energy pouring into it. With each note, she could feel him rooting for them to do their best and make the scene as dramatic and passionate as he could.

With each strike Simon made against their character, the music matched him, giving the scene a new adventurous feel. As he continued, it seemed Simon was getting more into it, for he moved faster than before, and looking at him, she could even see a smile growing on his face!

The music really was helping! She was so glad, then-!

“Brilliant!”

Hearing Dahlia again, Asha saw her hands on her hips with a proud smile. She said, “This is just like I imagined!” Asha was relieved and pleased, but then Dahlia caught her looking at her; as she did, she said, “Alright, Asha, recite your lines!”

“Oh, right!” She replied, then keeping her eyes open, she recited,

“They still didn't know what they wanted to be!

However, fighting with the courageous knight in the forest, feeling his passion for the blade burn with each strike.

They could feel the light they shone with! Could they have that light, too? Could they be more than what they were born as? Would there truly ever be a chance to-!”

“Alright! Stop! Stop everyone!”

With that, the practice session immediately ended again, and the music stopped. As it did, Asha looked at Dahlia silently and heard her say, “You need to speak up, Asha! And try to put a bit more feeling into it, okay?”

“Uh, sure?” she replied, but uncertain, she couldn't help but ask, “How am I supposed to express more emotion? What kind of feelings am I supposed to be showing?”

Her eyes stern, Dahlia told her, “The ones that burn with desire! With the wish to be more than what this provincial life gives you, emotions that you want to shine with!”

Asha was amazed by her passion, but then Dahlia continued, “Because that's what every person has deep down and if you want them all to smile, your words have to carry the right emotions to reach them and bring out that spark!” Then, smiling, she added, “And if anyone here can reach them all, it'll be you!”

Startled by this proclamation, Asha didn't know what to say. But then, with a bow of her head, she said, “I think you give me too much credit, Dahlia!” However, before her friend could protest, she said, “Because I'd never be able to reach the audience without you all helping me, I think all of us here can reach everyone if we try hard enough.”

Then, everyone stared at her instead, all of them surprised. Seeing them all do this, Asha felt self-conscious and looked down. Then, feeling sheepish, “Was that too weird?”

“No! It was brilliant!”

Asha turned and saw Asterix smiling at her. As he did, he added, “It's really sweet of you, Asha!”

This only made her turn red and bow her head again. She didn't need this kind of attention and fast pulsing in her heart!

Dahlia agreed, “Yeah, it was sweet! I appreciate that sentiment!” Then Asha, looking at her as she raised her head a little, heard her say, “But a bit corny!”

Asha chuckled awkwardly, expecting as much, but then-!

“Alright! C'mon, let's start again!”

With that, everyone got into position again, but before they fully started up, Asha felt a pat on her shoulder. Surprised, she saw it was Simon who told her, “I like that thought, too.”

He smiled gently at her, and as he did, Asha could feel the gloom around him had eased quite a bit. She was so pleased that she nodded, happy to hear his thoughts.

“Is everyone ready?”

As Dahlia asked, Simon replied, “Yep! We're good!”

Asha nodded, her hands ready to make her spell.

“Great!” Dahlia nodded with approval. However, before they started properly again, she asked, “Mr. Sabino, do you have any thoughts?”

“Hmm?” He was still in thought for a moment before he replied, “Just one!” Then, turning to their Musician, “Asterix!”

“Oh, yeah?” He replied, standing by.

“Try and keep the tempo slow at the beginning and build it up more as Asha tells the tale!” He told him.

“Okay, I'll do that!” he replied, then he got himself ready again, and then with that-!

“Alright, go!”

They practised again, then again, and again with the rest of the scenes, and they all worked hard to make the best show that Rosa hadn't seen in forever!

X X X X X X X X

“Okay! Let's stop for a lunch break!”

Now, later in the day, everyone was feeling a little weary. Simon, sitting on the now dry grass, hearing Dahlia's announcement, couldn't help but ask, “Don't you mean a late lunch break?” Looking at where the sun was in the sky, he said, “It must be at least two or three o'clock already!”

“Who cares when we eat, as long as we do!” Dahlia told him. Then, walking over, she gently smacked his head and said, “You'll get your fuel in a minute, so don't make a fuss!”

This made him look at her, annoyed. Asha laughed again at their usual banter as she sat on the grass, too.

“Do you want a hand up?”

Then, she turned and saw Asterix had walked over, reaching his hand down to her. Quiet at first, she then smiled and replied, “Sure!” With that, she accepted his help.

Standing up again, she began to tidy herself. Doing this, she then heard, “So what do you think you'll make for us, Asha?”

As this was put to her, she looked at Dahlia, who asked. Silent momentarily, she replied, “Good question!” Thinking she listed, “Well I could make us a big pesto pasta, or a vegetable soup, or-!” However, quickly, she remembered becoming anxious, “Oh, no!”

Worried immediately, Asterix asked her, “What is it!?”

“I've forgotten to get started on the stew I promised for Levi!” she cried. Rushing forward, she said, “I've got to begin now!” Then, she disappeared straight back into the cottage!

…

Left in the dust, Asterix, perplexed, repeated, “A stew?”

“Looks like she's overloaded herself again!” Simon chuckled.

Puzzled, Asterix asked, “What do you mean?”

“She's trying to do too much at once again!” Dahlia added, “It can be one of Asha's bad unintentional habits.”

“Oh?” Asterix uttered, still puzzled.

Sabino chuckled, then said, “Some things never change!”

“Bah!” Valentino agreed.

Sabino smiled again, got up, and walked back towards the cottage, saying, “Well, why don't we all go in for a while?”

Quickly brightening, Asterix replied, “Sure! I'd like that!”

“We all would!” Simon agreed and followed after Asterix, and he went in after Sabino.

“Hey! Wait up you guys!” Then Dahlia quickly followed after them, too!

X X X X X X X X

“Okay! Okay! Okay!”

Rushing around the kitchen, Asha was trying to finish all the cooking!

“Right! Pasta's on the boil!” Then, moving to another section, she said, “I've got to heat up the olive oil, and-!” However, quickly, she remembered something else she needed to do and said, “Oh, pitta bread, I need to have that bake too, and-!”

She was stressing and rushing around like a mad person as she tried to juggle the mess of meals she needed to prepare!

…

Hearing all the cluttering and mad dashing she was doing, Asterix couldn't help but feel bad for her and said, “Wow, I never knew cooking needed that much effort!”

“You're talking like an aristocrat if you don't understand that!” Dahlia told him. With her arms folded, she said, “It's always chaos when you're in the kitchen, whether you're at home or in the palace!”

“Oh?” Asterix uttered, then asked, “So you know Magnifico too, Dahlia?”

“We both do,” Simon said, then, with his hands on the table, he said, looking down at it, “We work for him.”

“I see,” Asterix replied. Then, careful not to bring up the subject of Wishes, he asked, “Is he difficult to work for?”

“Depends on his mood,” Dahlia replied. Then, stretching back in her chair, she said, “If he's relaxed you'll have a good day, or if he's in a real bad mood...” With a sigh, she revealed, “He'll make sure you pay, one way or another!”

That didn't sound good at all. However, knowing Magnifico was Rosa's magical saviour, all Asterix could say was, “I see...”

“AGH!”

CLATTER!

CRASH!

Then it sounded like Asha had dropped something or some things... it didn't sound good! Trying to imagine what she might be contending with, Asterix asked, “Um, is there anything we can do to help her?”

At first, it was quiet; nobody said anything. But then Dahlia began, “It depends if she'll even let us.”

Baffled, Asterix asked, “Huh, what do you mean?”

“Asha always tries to be the perfect host when we visit, she usually refuses any help we try to give her when it comes to cooking,” Simon revealed.

“Really?” Asterix asked, stopping in thought he couldn't help but say, “I don't think that's right to do.”

“Why's that?” Dahlia asked.

“Well I mean to accomplish anything, people can't usually do it alone.” Then, remembering his experiences of granting Wishes throughout the world, he continued, “If it's a small goal, sure you can but if it's too big for you then you'll just overburden yourself and burn out... it's no good for anyone.”

“Very true!”

It was then that Asterix became surprised. Turning, he saw Sabino nodding at him, and then he said, “It's almost impossible to achieve grand goals alone!” Then, taking a drink of water left for him, he continued, “After all, that's how all of us made it to Rosa or even helped it to become as grand as it is now, wouldn't you all agree?”

Silent, both Dahlia and Simon stared at him in surprise, too. After a moment, the red-clad girl said, “Yeah, I guess it is true when you take the time to think about it?”

Simon simply nodded, though he couldn't help but add, “I never thought cooking could lead to talks of achieving greater things.”

Revealing a small smile at their words, Asterix asked, “How about we try and help Asha now?”

Again, there was more silence, but Simon said, “Sure? Why not?” Then, revealing a small smile, he said, “Maybe we can convince her this time.”

“Who do you think I am?” Dahlia replied, then with a smug smile, she said, “I've nearly made it as the King's baker! She'd be a fool to refuse MY help!”

Quiet, Simon said, “Yeah, but that's the keyword, isn't it?” Then, as Dahlia stared at him blankly, he smirked and said, “Nearly you said right?”

Dahlia immediately became mad! But before she could utter a word-!

“BAH!”

Valentino distracted them, then, “Bah, bah, bah, bah!”

Baffled by these angry bleats, Dahlia asked, “What's eating him up?”

Understanding every word, Asterix said awkwardly, “Um, I think probably something like the sooner we help the sooner we eat?”

Quiet, Simon laughed and said, “Yeah! I could feel it being something like that!” Then, getting out of his chair, he said, “Well, if we're going to try, let's go now.”

“Tch! Now who's trying to be the leader, huh?” Dahlia asked jokingly.

Simon smiled and continued walking, and then Dahlia got up to join him.

Pleased for their assistance, Asterix turned and said, “Thanks for that, Mr. Sabino!”

He chuckled and replied, “Don't worry about it!” Then he added, “Now as the one who started this, I hope you help in getting our meals done ASAP!”

“I'll try!” Asterix laughed and then went to help Simon and Dahlia assist Asha with her cooking!

…

“Alright! Okay!” Just finishing mincing half the vegetables she needed for the stew, Asha moved again and said, “Alright, alright now I need to chop all the basil and make the pesto, so I can-!”

“Hey, Asha!”

Spooked, she quickly turned and saw Asterix walk into the Kitchen with Dahlia and Simon behind him. Surprised, she asked, “Guys what're you doing in here?”

“Lending a hand, of course, before you-!” Then Dahlia stopped mid-sentence and saw, “Oh, no the pasta!” Then she ran over, panicked!

“Huh?” Baffled, Asha then saw what she meant. In her crazed hurry to cook everything, she had left the lid on the pot! “Oh, no!” she cried!

Dahlia stopped before it and said, “A towel, where's a kitchen towel?!”

Looking left and right, Asha quickly spied a red one and ran over! Handing it over, she said, “Here!”

Dahlia quickly took it and moved the messy frothing pot off the heat. Then, she immediately removed the lid and waved away all the blistering steam! After doing this for a few moments, she said, “Honestly! Of all things you could have done!”

Feeling awful about this blunder, Asha looked down and said apologetically, “Sorry...”

She then heard a sigh from Dahlia, but instead of hearing her voice, she felt-!

PAT! PAT! PAT!

She felt a comforting hand on her shoulder. Surprised, she turned and saw Asterix. As she did, she heard him say, “Do you want us to help now?”

Staying quiet momentarily, Asha said, “But I'm the host here! You all don't need to-!”

“Nope, forget it! We need to now!” Dahlia replied, putting the kitchen towel away to one side. She continued, “Otherwise, if we let you go on at this crazy rate, you'll burn all the chow before we have a chance to eat any of it!”

Hearing this, Asha still looked uneasy and said, “But I...”

“C'mon, Asha!” Simon came over and added, “Let us do it this once. After all, you're cooking more than just one meal now, right?”

As this was put to her so calmly, Asha still looked troubled. But then, as she shuffled uncomfortably, she asked, “Would that really be alright with you all?”

“Of course it would!” Asterix nodded brightly with a smile. “I've never cooked before, so I'd like to see how it's all made!”

Asha was astonished to hear this, and then Dahlia, wiping her hands on the kitchen towel, said, “Wow! You really have lived a life of privilege if you'd never had to do that before!”

Asterix looked baffled and asked, “Have I?”

Seeing his clueless look, Asha couldn't help but laugh and say, “Yeah, I'd say you have!” Then, as he looked at her, she said, “Also thanks for helping me now, Asterix!” Then, looking at both her friends, she added, “You too, Dahlia, Simon!”

“Don't worry about it!” Simon replied, then asked, “So what are you making?”

“I was about to make the pesto for the pasta, but I also promised Levi a stew! I have to get it done now otherwise it won't be ready for dinner later,” Asha revealed.

“Oh, really?” Dahlia replied, smiling. Then she said, “Well, that shouldn't take us too long then, if we all work on this!” With that, she pulled up her sleeves and said, “Let's get to it!”

“Right!” Asterix said brightly, and with that, everyone assisted Asha and helped to create the lunch and dinner meals.

As they all did it together, Asha couldn't help but smile as her stress gradually faded. Again, feeling this wondrous warmth as they all worked together and seeing Asterix's amusing reactions to the food preparations. She adored this happy atmosphere with everyone, and then finally, when they all sat down together and feasted on the meal they'd made together, her Grandfather smiled and laughed with them, along with a pleased Valentino. She couldn't help but make another little Wish inside her heart, one that would let this cosy, warm happiness last forever...

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 18

(*(Chapter Eighteen)*)

Unable to contain a yawn that escaped his lips, Magnifico then finished donning his long white night robes. He spied the white clouds in the morning sky out the balcony window.

Doing this, he realised, “I do believe our lands need refreshing.” So, with that thought in mind, he moved his hands and chanted,

“Imber, pluvia effunditur;nostras terras virides fac et laete hodie!”

With that, the targetted clouds darkened to a suitable grey and drifted out in a wide circle from the castle as they obeyed his order.

He smiled as his magical glow died away, for no matter how many times he did this, being able to wield power over the clouds was a thrill. He thought of his younger self, who could only dream of such mystical feats.

“Dear are you coming?”

Hearing her voice, Magnifico looked at Amaya, who was already in bed, dressed in her opulent white pearled nightdress. He smiled and replied, “Of course, dear!”

With that, he went straight over to her and got under the covers with her. He settled to go to sleep, holding her in his arms. Charo nestled between the two on their pillow, and then, as he became comfy, the three silently waited for sleep.

...

“Urgh...!” However, for his darling, this was easier said than done! “Are you having difficulties in finding your peaceful slumber, Amaya?” He questioned, peaking his eyes open.

“It's this blasted light!” she uttered with annoyance. Opening her eyes and seeing it peak through the clouds Magnifico sent away, she said, “It's bothering me too much, I-!”

“Say no more!” He told her with a smile. Then, lifting up a free hand, he twirled it and chanted,

“Umbrae veni!Lucem dispone et nobis somnia delectare monstra!”

GLOOM!!!

Then, darkness swirled around them quickly, blotting out the light outside! However, it wasn't sinister or ominous like that of the Lividus.

It was comforting and soft, like living black velvet, as it domed over their bed. As Amaya looked on in astonishment, the magical dark shade twinkled with tiny lights, mimicking stars.

She became surprised as Magnifico spied this; he asked, “Impressed you have I?”

She remained quiet momentarily, smiled, and replied, “Yes, you have again.” Then, kissing his lips, she stroked his cheek and told him, “I love you...”

“Same to you,” he smirked, and with that, they both became comfortable again, as Charo did the same, curling into a ball with a purr. Then, finally, as sleep gradually claimed them, Magnifico told his cherished queen, “And don't worry; soon you and I will have a true living star to call our own...”

X X X X X X X X

Sighing, Asha was out in her garden. Kneeling down, with her trusty small sickle in hand, she finally finished her gathering. Looking down at the bundles of purple Lavender flowers and green stems in her wicker basket, Asha was pleased by their healthy, long lengths. She'd been able to obtain a lot, fortunately. Chuckling, she couldn't help but say, “Sometimes it pays to be a little late!”

Looking around, she also noticed that the flowers in her garden were no longer chattering with their cute squeaks. She had to assume, “I suppose Asterix's magic has worn off on everybody?”

But this wasn't the time to think about that. Asha put the sickle in the basket and dusted her dress off, “I better go start getting breakfast ready!” Then, carrying it with her, she said, “Because after all, I've got no idea when Asterix will-!”

GLITTER!

She noticed something at the corner of her eye, a glitter of gold and blonde with a soft glow. Stopping, Asha smiled and turned quickly around, saying, “Asterix! So you've-!”

However, he wasn't there! Surprised, she looked about, asking, “Wait? I swear I saw-!”

Pat! Pat! Pat!

Her right shoulder was suddenly patted! Jumping, she turned to immediately look in that direction when-!

Pat! Pat!

Her other shoulder was playfully patted! Quickly Startled again, she swiftly turned and still saw nothing when-!

“Ha! Ha! Ha!”

She heard that familiar warm laughter, which made her smile. As she spun around again, it was finally then-!

“Good morning, Asha!”

There she finally saw him before her, her Star Boy with that boyish happy smile and his joyful sparkling brown eyes that gazed at her with affectionate warmth.

Staring at him quietly, she was awestruck seeing his happy smile. Her heart was racing fast thinking about last night, but this wasn't the time for this! Shaking her head quickly, she tried calming down and chuckled, “Yeah, Uh! Good morning Asterix!”

He nodded, and then, as he landed on the floor, Asha noticed him do something unusual. He was dusting himself off, and watching him do this puzzled her. She was about to ask about it when she noticed something else: “Wait? Why 're you covered in leaves?”

He stilled, then scratched the back of his head. With an embarrassed smile, “Oh, I had a bit of an accident this morning.”

Worried fast, she repeated, “An accident?”

Nodding again, he explained, “Yeah, while I slept on my usual branch, one of the birds spooked me as I was waking up, and...” Then, tapping a couple of fingers together, he admitted, looking ashamed, “I fell down, breaking some branches along the way!”

Shocked, she asked him, “Did you get hurt badly?!”

Stopping, he then told her, “Oh, no! Not too much!” Then, pointing up, he told her, “The sun's healed me up. It took about half an hour, but I'm okay!” However, trying to rid some of the leaves still stuck to him, he said, “And the leaves below let me have a soft landing, though it's tough clearing them all off me!”

Hearing his explanations, Asha relaxed and said with relief, “Well, I'm glad you didn't get severely injured.” But walking up to him, she lifted off one of the leaves on his head and told him, “I just couldn't bear it if you got hurt badly again.”

“Asha...” He was still, then, as she looked up at him. He saw him looking down at her with surprise.

Her heart pulsed strongly again, and then she opened her mouth to speak-!

“BBBBAAAA!!!!”

The warm moment again was swiftly shattered as the determined and enraged Valentino emerged from the cottage and charged across the grass at lightning speed!

“BAA! BAA! BAA! BAA!”

Appalled, Asha couldn't believe him!

“Oh, no you won't!”

Dim...

Then, turning around, she saw quickly that Asterix had removed his orange cloak again, leaving him standing on the grass, and as he did-!

“BBBBAAAA!!!!”

Dismayed, Valentino was jumping and hopping about hurriedly everywhere, trying to chomp and swallow any of his golden glittering dust that might have trailed into the air!

However, after a few moments, his desperate attempt was fruitless. As he sat on the grass, breathless momentarily. He looked at Asterix furiously and uttered, “Baa...Baa...Baa...!”

Asterix sighed and told him, unimpressed, “Well I don't really like you much right now either.”

Asha couldn't believe her unruly kid's behaviour and told him, “Honestly, Valentino! I can't believe you'd go this far just to get your voice back!”

“Baa! Baa! Baa! Baa!” he protested, then pointed at Asterix. He quickly returned his hoof to point at himself and declared, “Baa! Baa! Baa! Baa! Baa! ”

Clearly unable to understand him, Asha looked at Asterix and asked, “What did he say?”

Asterix looked uncomfortable and replied, “Uh, he said he has every right to and... my dust is his dust?”

Silent, Asha looked down at her kid and couldn't help but tell him with obvious disgust, “That's gross Valentino!”

“BBBBAAAA!!!!” Angry, he then did the only thing he could. He raced straight over and butted Asterix again in the legs to vent his frustrations.

However, this did little to nothing. Then Asterix laughed awkwardly and said, “Well, he's definitely determined for a little guy, you gotta give him that, huh?”

Quiet, Asha laughed and replied, shrugging her shoulders, “I guess!” Then, moving back to the cottage, she said, “C'mon, Asterix! I'll go fix up that breakfast I promised!”

“Great! I can't wait to try it!” Brightening immediately, she could tell he would have released more of his golden dust in happiness if his cloak was still there. It was like he said: he really couldn't hide his emotions!

With that thought making her smile, she opened the door; then Asterix entered, with Valentino doggedly pursuing him. Likely to charge into his knees again!

Shaking her head, Asha rolled her eyes, joined them, and began preparing the delicious morning meal!

X X X X X X X X

“BAAA...!”

And indeed he was; Valentino was still going at it. Even when Asterix sat at the table (after tidying himself fully.) His hard head was hitting him against the side of his leg.

Finding this bothersome, Asterix couldn't help but question the stubborn kid, “Do you ever give up?”

“Baa! Baa!” The kid decreed, trying harder.

With a sigh, Asterix uttered, “I should have known you'd say never.” Then, before Valentino could bleat a retort-!

FFFWWWIIISSSHHH!!!

“Huh?” Surprised, Asterix looked to the window and saw that the blue sky outside had suddenly darkened. It was now, “Rain?”

“That's Lord Magnifico's work no doubt!”

Baffled, Asterix turned and saw Asha walking over. As she did, he saw she was carrying a wooden tray that held some small curious items. She began to lay them on the table. He was puzzled by this, but instead of questioning it, he asked, “He can make it rain?”

After placing everything, Asha nodded and explained, “Yeah, he periodically makes it rain so that we always have fine greenery on the island.” Then, walking away, she continued, “The Wishes he's accumulated provide him with powers that not only protect us from the attackers outside the island, but it helps the land stay fertile and pleasant for everyone who lives here.”

Staying quiet as he heard this, Asterix still felt uneasy about the methods this mysterious sorcerer used to 'protect' his citizens. He could only utter simply, “I see...” before looking at one of the odd items Asha had placed on the table. He was quiet before he realised, “Oh!” Then he picked it up and began using it.

“So it's thanks to Lord Magnifico, that we always have great food to eat both from the land and sea, so we never have to worry about famine, or-!”

Hearing Asha stop, Asterix paused his work. Looking at her, he saw she was staring at him oddly, carrying a couple of cups in her hand. Becoming puzzled, he asked, “What's wrong, Asha?”

“Um? I think that should be my question Asterix, what're you doing?” She enquired.

“Huh?” Then, looking at the instrument, he told her with a smile, “I'm brushing my hair of course!” Pointing to the item she put on the table, he said, “That's what this is right? A tiny comb!”

Pausing, Asha then unexpectedly laughed and told him, “No! No, no! That's not what that is!”

Surprised, he asked, “It's not?”

“No, it's a fork!” Asha laughed. Then, walking over, she reached her hand out and said, “That's for food!”

Baffled, Asterix then asked, “Huh? Food has hair that needs brushing?”

She laughed harder and replied, “No!” Then, as he handed it over to her, looking more perplexed, she explained, “It's there to help you pick up food that's too hot - that you can't use your hands for!”

“Really?” he asked puzzled. Thinking briefly, he asked, “Why would you want to eat something that hot?”

Chuckling, Asha shook her head and told him, “You'll see!” With that, she walked away and said, “I'll get a new clean utensil for you and some plates!”

Watching her as she left, Asterix scratched his cheek and said, “Human ways sure are strange!”

“Ba! Ha! Ha! Ha!” Hearing Valentino, he saw him on his back, laughing loudly at his foolishness.

Asterix remained quiet and then grew red in the face. Looking down, he grumbled, “I wish you'd become mute right now!” Then, taking the cup before him, he took a drink of water to try and recover his composure, closing his eyes.

“Alright, here we go!”

Hearing her returning after a little bit, Asterix opened his eyes and saw that she was carrying over a couple of wooden bowls. One with delicious red apples, another with some small, soft-looking pale-yellow cubes. He assumed these were cheese.

He stared with fascination, and then he saw her place a few clay brown plates down, one in front of him and another couple elsewhere, before leaving again. As he did, he felt a little restless. Should he just stay sat there or-!

“And finally the main dish!”

There, within a huge dark iron pan, was a sizzling meal. Bubbling red with a spicy, rich aroma, Asterix could tell it was a savoury dish with many herbs stirred in with tomatoes. But what it was, he didn't know. However, his mouth was watering at the delicious scent, and he asked, gulping, “What's this?”

Smiling, Asha told him, “A traditional dish, Shakshuka!”

As the word registered, he repeated, “Shuck-shoo-kuh?”

Nodding, Asha got out a longer cooking tool and began scooping out the meal. She continued, “It's an old favourite of our family. I used to cook this with my Mom!”

He watched Asha quietly, and as he spoke of her Mother, he saw her smile softly at her mention. It was a sweet one.

It made him forget his embarrassed state and he replied, with a growing smile, “I see!” Then, as the plate was laid before him, he asked, “What's in it?”

“Eggs! Poached in tomato sauce mixed with peppers, onion, and garlic!” she told him. Then, making her own dish ready, she said, “It's really nourishing and helps to fill you up, that's why it's a big favourite!”

“Wow! It sounds great!” he replied, eagerly ready to dig straight into it! However, he stopped and asked, “Um? How do you eat this?”

“With a spoon or a fork!” She told him, then demonstrated. She picked up her utensil and told him, scooping up a mouthful, “Because as you can tell, it's a bit too slippery to eat with your hands and very hot too!”

Watching her silently, he replied, “Yeah, I can now!” Then, looking at the remaining utensil beside him, he asked, “So, this is a spoon, right?”

“Yeah! You can use that to scoop it up!” Asha told him, smiling.

“Okay!” he said brightly. Then, carefully, he dug the spoon in and took a big bit. Then, bringing it to his mouth, he went to eat it when-!

“Oh, wait!”

“Huh?”

As he stopped, Asha advised, “It'll be better if you blow on it! Otherwise it might burn you!”

Baffled, he asked, “Blow on it?”

“Yeah, like this!” Asha explained, then again demonstrated, and blew softly on her food, making wisps of steam flow off the food, cooling it gently.

Watching her do this, Asterix was quiet. However, watching her close her eyes and blow, something about her lips puckered as they blew. Made something rush within him; the jewel on his chest glowed brightly at this new fluttery sensation. What was this?

Though without a worry, Asha smiled and told him, “See you just pucker up and blow!”

Seeing her smile at him again, he quickly turned down and replied, “Uh, yeah, okay, I get it!” His face, he could feel, was becoming red. What was going on?!

“Are you alright, Asterix?”

Hearing her concern, he couldn't look at her immediately and replied, “Uh, nothing. I'm fine! I'll try it now!” Trying hard to escape from this unusual fluttering feeling building within him, he quickly blew his own spoon a few times and put it finally in his mouth!

…

He stayed silent as he chewed and then he heard Asha ask, “How is it... do you like it?”

As the question came, Asterix stayed quiet for a little more. Then, after swallowing it down, he looked up and told her surprised, “It's delicious!” Then, quickly, he went to take another spoonful and said, “I've never had anything like it! It's so warm and rich, this spice it's-!” He couldn't continue as the flavours washed away the awkwardness as he basked in the fantastic taste of the dish.

“I'm glad!” Asha smiled, then took the bowl with cheese and said, “You can add more to the taste too with this Feta cheese! It really enriches it!”

“Okay, I'll give that a try, too!” When she finished, he took the bowl himself and told her, “Thanks for this meal, Asha!”

“You're welcome!” She smiled, and with that, they ate, enjoying the warm atmosphere when-!

“Baa!”

Stopping for a moment, Asterix saw Valentino bleat again. He saw him hop off to Asha's side. He heard him again, “Baa! Baa! Baa!”

Sighing, he began to translate, “He says he wants-!”

“I already know!” Asha interrupted, then getting up momentarily, she returned and said, “There you go, Valentino!”

With that, his food bowl was placed on the floor, and he began eating eagerly. As he did, Asha said, “You should be grateful I was willing to add a few grapes and strawberries to your lettuce!”

Surprised, Asterix asked, “Valentino can't eat our food?”

“Nope! It's no good for him; this is something only we can eat,” Asha told him as she sat down and got comfortable again.

Quiet, Asterix smiled and said, “I see!” Then, looking down at the hungry kid, he told him, “Looks like you can't always get everything you want, huh? Valentino?”

“Bah!” He uttered mad, then turned away from him with a flick of his tail.

This behaviour caused both him and Asha to laugh, and with that, they continued eating their breakfast together, quietly in peace as it continued to rain outside...

X X X X X X X X

“Oh! I loved that! That was amazing!” Asterix uttered, fully satisfied as he rubbed his middle.

Chuckling at this, Asha asked, “You want thirds?”

He immediately sat up straight and asked eagerly, “There's more!?”

Laughing at this, she told him teasingly, “Maybe?” Then, walking back towards the kitchen, she said, “I'll see what I can find.”

Then she began thinking, what did she have that would be a good follow-up? She could make a mixture with scrambled eggs and some other savoury ingredients. They'd be good with maybe pitta bread and-?

“Asha?”

Freezing, losing her train of thought, she heard from above,

“Have you cooked breakfast today?”

In horror, she realised, “Grandpa!?” She raced straight back in Asterix's direction!

Seeing him there, she told him urgently, “Asterix hat!”

Baffled as he was knocked out of his blissful moment, he repeated, “Huh? Hat?”

“Yes! Put it on now!” She told him, then-!

“Hm? Have you invited someone over?”

Then she could hear it, her Grandfather was coming down the stairs! At this rate-!

“Oh!” Asterix finally seemed to realise the severity of the situation and quickly moved, pulling the red cap out of his pocket. However, he reluctantly stopped and asked, “Do I really have to-?

“YES!” She told him urgently for this was no time for disagreements!

Then, with a depressed look, Asterix pulled the hat back on and tucked away his glowing blonde hair again. As he stuffed and stuffed away his precious locks, he finally asked, “...There, are we okay now?”

Looking over him fast from all angles, she relaxed. She took a deep, relieving breath and said, “Yeah, we should be!”

“Oh!”

Hearing this exclamation, Asha turned around and saw who arrived at the bottom of the stairs with a now steady hand. Was her Grandfather, as he stood there, she heard him say, “A newcomer is he?”

Seeing him standing upright, Asha approached him and asked, “Grandpa! Are you okay?” Looking over him worriedly, she continued, “Are you sure it's alright for you to be moving around?”

“Oh, absolutely!” He smiled, then patted her shoulder to calm her, “That magic spell you performed on me last night has done me wonders!” Then, rolling his right arm that hurt so badly, he told her, “I haven't felt better in years!” Smiling widely, he added, “You performed a real miracle for me!”

Amazed to hear this, Asha smiled warmly and told him happily, “That's great! I'm so glad!”

He nodded pleased, then looked beyond her and said, “So? Who's our guest?” Seeing Asterix sitting there with his hands on his head, he asked, “Is he a newcomer?”

Feeling nervous, Asha swallowed it down and did her best to break the ice. “Oh, yeah! He just arrived recently. This is Asterix!” she said, introducing him.

Curious, he asked, “Asterix is it?”

Watching him, Asha stayed quiet and saw him stand up and say, “Oh, yes sir! I just arrived in Rosa, and I met Asha recently and have been helping her get better at magic!”

Surprised, he asked, “Have you?” Then, walking over and sitting in the other chair available, he asked, “So? Are you a user of the mystical art?”

“Uh?” He was about to answer, but Asha behind made a big 'X' with her hands, showing how he should answer, “Oh, uh no! I'm not!”

“Huh? You aren't?” As he became puzzled, he looked back at his Granddaughter, and she, in turn, quickly hid her hands behind her back, looking at him with an awkward smile. As he studied her momentarily, he looked back to Asterix and asked, “Then how have you helped her in learning the art?”

“Um...” Asterix was sweating now and pursing her lips; Asha only hoped he didn't answer with something weird!

“Well, I...” Then, looking down, Asterix, after a moment, finally answered, “I observed someone who was really good at casting magic, and I used her as a reference to help Asha in her learning!”

Asha wasn't expecting this, but her Grandfather, unaware, asked, “Really? Who was that?”

Stilling, Asterix admitted after a bit, “...My Sister.”

Hearing him mention her, Asha could see he looked pained. She worried for him but couldn't suddenly interrupt them; otherwise, it would appear too suspicious. Instead, she approached and sat at the table quietly intrigued as her Grandfather asked, “Your Sister?”

Asterix nodded, then he continued, “She's... the best.” With a sad smile, he continued, “She's one of the most talented where I come from, she's able to do nearly any magic, healing was one of her biggest specialities and... she was far better than I could ever hope to be, she lights up the world with her talent.” Then closing his eyes he added, “At least she did, before she disappeared.”

Hearing her description, Asha had no idea how he felt about her. Then she couldn't help but wonder again. How did she go missing? What had happened to her?

Her Grandfather replied, “I see... I'm sorry for bringing up something so grave. Forgive me. I shouldn't have carelessly pried.”

With a sad smile, he shook his head and replied, “It's alright. You didn't know sir, don't worry!”

With a nod, he said, “Alright.” Then, as her Grandfather looked at him, he squinted his eyes and asked Asterix, “Wait?”

Now puzzled, he repeated, “Huh, Wait? For what?”

Her Grandfather then asked, “You seem very familiar to me?”

Baffled, Asha asked him, “Grandpa what do you mean?”

He replied, “I don't know? I just feel like we've met each other before.”

As he stared at him, Asterix looked uncomfortable. Then he tried to clear the air as he joked and said, “Um, maybe we have. Once upon a dream!”

Valentino below released a snicker while Asha stared daggers at him. Her Grandfather, though, didn't laugh and asked, “Is that supposed to be funny?”

“I guess?” Asterix laughed awkwardly as he was being put on the spot now!

Asha laughed awkwardly too, and said, trying to change the subject, “Um, hang on! I'll go and get breakfast for you. Grandpa, give me a minute, okay?”

Looking over at her, he replied, “Oh, very good Asha thank you!”

She nodded, then asked, “Do you have any preferences?”

“Not really, oh! But could you bring some tea over?” He asked.

“Sure of course!” With that, she prepared his meal and just hoped that her dear Grandparent would be able to get along with Asterix. She really didn't want him to get the wrong impression of him!

…

Seeing Asha go, deep down, Asterix really, really didn't want her to! He didn't know what to talk about with this older man. What if he said the wrong thing by accident or-!

“So?”

“Uh, yeah!?” He replied nervously.

Blinking in bafflement, the Grandfather asked, “Are you alright?”

“Yeah, mostly I guess?” Asterix replied nervously, scratching his head.

“Hm? You're quite an awkward fellow aren't you?”

As he said this, Asterix replied, “What makes you say that, sir?”

“Sabino.”

Baffled, Asterix blinked and uttered, “Huh?”

“My name, is Sabino you can add Mr before if it suits you.” He continued.

“Oh, right of course Mr Sabino, sir!” Asterix replied, hoping he sounded respectful.

“Very good!” He nodded in approval, then bowing his head, told him, “And thank you.”

Asterix stared at him quietly in surprise, and then he asked, “Uh, for what sir?”

“For helping my Granddaughter get better at her magic,” he said, then looking in the direction where she was cooking, he continued with a soft smile, “She's not only healed me, but she's become so radiant!”

Baffled at what he meant, Asterix asked, “Radiant how?”

The smile never left his face as he explained, “Only a couple of days before, she was so fretful and stressed, trying to appease Lord Magnifico along with trying to care for me.” Then, turning back and looking down at his aged hands, his expression saddened slightly as he added, “She was forcing herself to stay bright for me and everyone around her.”

Shocked, Asterix asked, “It was that bad?”

With a nod, Sabino admitted, “Yes, you see it's not entirely easy living on this island, tales of this place are greatly exaggerated of it being a perfect paradise.”

Lowering his head, Asterix replied, “I see...”

However, Sabino, looking at him again, said, “But that's different now. Since last night, I've noticed that she's finally showing her true smile again.”

Surprised, Asterix looked at him and repeated, puzzled, “Her true smile?”

“Yes!” Closing his eyes, the old man continued, “I can feel it, she's so much happier and relaxed, she's not forcing it anymore!” Then, looking at him, he said, “And it's because of you!”

Amazed, Asterix asked, “I've really made that much of a difference?”

“If I've said so of course!” Sabino smiled and added, “So, once more thank you for that, Asterix!”

He wasn't expecting such praise, especially from a centenarian! Feeling bashful, he told him, “Aw! Well it's nothing really!” Then, looking in Asha's direction, he said, “But I'm glad she's happier, I like Asha's smile, it's pretty!” He said, brightening at the sight of her. Then, as he thought a little more, he added, “And if I can help her to reach her goal of making everyone happier, then I hope that'll let her smile more.”

Quietly, Sabino stared at him and chuckled softly, then said, “I see...” Looking at him, he added, “She's lucky to have such a supportive partner.”

Looking back at him, Asterix felt more relaxed as he nodded happily. Talking to Asha's Grandfather was easier than he thought it would be. He had a gentle and welcoming aura around him, and feeling his warm energy, he was beginning to like talking to him.

“Beh...!”

Hearing this disgusted bleat, he looked down and saw Valentino. He looked irritated as he stared up at him.

Creasing his brows, Asterix was baffled. For what was his problem?

“By the way?”

Distracted from his thoughts, Asterix turned back and heard Sabino say, “I heard you might be playing in Asha's performance tomorrow.”

Quiet at first, Asterix replied, “Oh, uh, yeah maybe?” Then, with an awkward chuckle, he replied, “I've played a stringed instrument a couple of times, and I'm still getting used to the Mandolin, so-?”

“You're only a beginner?” Sabino asked, shocked.

“Um, yes, why?” Asterix asked.

Unexpectedly, the old man's eyes turned stern, and he asked, “How have you been playing it?”

“Uh...?” Again, Asterix was beginning to feel uncomfortable. However, not wanting to lose the friendly atmosphere they'd started to build, he replied, “Well, I can show you if you want, sir?”

As he studied him silently, Sabino replied, “....Alright, you do that then, let's see how you do.”

“Okay...” With that, Asterix got up and looked around the room. He found where Asha had left the Mandolin. Picking it up, he returned to the table. Taking the chair, he moved it back a little for some space, and then, sitting down, he got comfortable and began to play.

Putting his fingers on the strings, he strummed it gently. Then, closing his eyes, he began playing the beat he'd created in the forest with his animal friends. It was a light-hearted, happy beat that started to slow but gradually built in pace, becoming faster as he let go of his worries and his-!

“No! No! No! No!”

Stopped abruptly, Asterix uttered, “Huh, no?”

Pointing at him, Sabino said, “You're doing that all wrong!”

Baffled, Asterix asked, “What's wrong?”

“The way you're playing, that's utterly incorrect!” Sabino told him, outraged.

Blinking, Asterix asked, looking down, “How?”

Sabino cried, “Where's your pick, your Plectrum!?”

Staring at him blankly, Asterix asked cautiously, “Um, what's that, sir?”

The old man looked appalled and demanded, “Who taught you how to play!?”

“Um...?” Feeling nervous at seeing how upset he was making him, cautiously Asterix answered, “Uh, he was an aspiring musician who wanted to become part of a royal court, a cheery tall man, kind of red in the face and-?”

“Red in the face?” Sabino repeated sceptically.

“Oh, yes! He hiccuped a lot, and was kind of funny in the way he spoke and was-”

“You learned from a drunk?” Sabino asked him bluntly.

Blinking, Asterix didn't know what that meant and replied, “Well, he did drink a red beverage quite often, it smelled too sourly acidic so I never really tried it myself, so-?”

“Urgh!” Sabino clapped his hand to his forehead and told him, “No wonder you don't know what you're doing!”

Quiet at this proclamation, Asterix looked down disheartened and asked, “Did I really play that badly?”

“The issue isn't with the composition!” Sabino told him, looking up at his stern eyes; Asterix heard him continue, “It's the way you're handling the instrument.”

Silent, Asterix asked, “...Why's that an issue?”

Annoyed, Sabino told him, “If you handle it badly, you'll never be able to conduct music properly!” Then, folding his arms, he said, “With a pick it helps the musician to play faster, build better technique and more importantly increase the volume so more can hear you.”

Amazed, Asterix asked, “Can it really help do all that?”

“Of course!” Sabino said, annoyed, “If I never had that, I couldn't-!” Then he stopped and suddenly clutched his chest.

Shocked, Asterix then saw-!

GLOOM...

Awful wisps of dark pain escaped from Sabino's aching form. Chilled seeing it, Asterix asked, worried, “Sir you're-!?”

“I'm fine!” He grimaced, then breathed hard, fighting it. He said, “I just... haven't felt this strongly in ages. I'm just-!”

Seeing how pained he was, Asterix was still. Then, looking down at the instrument, he said, “I'll stop then, if this is-!”

“No!”

Stopping him before he could act, Asterix, in surprise, saw Sabino gritting his teeth as he said, “I can't... let this control... me anymore!” Then, with that, the aged man got up.

Worried, Asterix went to aid him, saying, “Sir, let me-!”

“No!” Stopping him with a halting hand, Sabino, doing his best to control his pained breathing, told him, “I'm alright, just let me...” he didn't finish his sentence. Instead, he walked over, continuing to grimace, and came to a nearby small wooden chest of drawers on one particular table. Making it there, he began to rummage through it.

Worried for him, Asterix didn't know what to do? He didn't want to upset him, but at the same time, he felt like there must be something he could do to-!

“Bah...”

Surprised, he looked down and saw Valentino get up and run over to Sabino. Watching him, Asterix saw the young kid rub himself against the aged man's leg comfortingly.

Sabino, feeling him do this, looked down. Despite the awful gloom that polluted him, he patted Valentino on the head with a soft smile. Then he continued his search.

Seeing this, Asterix knew then that he didn't want to just sit there doing nothing. So he got up, carrying the Mandolin with him. He walked over and then stood behind Sabino. He used his other free hand and placed it on his jewel. Doing this, he concentrated, and-!

Glow...

He illuminated with a gentle, subtle shine, then moved his hand and pressed it on Sabino's shoulder.

“Hey?”

“Huh?” Then, before he could notice, Asterix's slight, warm shine entered Sabino's body, and as he turned around to look at him, the wisps around him lessened significantly.

Glad for this, Asterix asked him, “Why don't I help you find what you're looking for, sir?”

Quiet as this was asked of him, Sabino stared at Asterix. But then, surprising him, the old man revealed a small smile of his own and said, “I've already done it!” To which he showed what he'd been looking for.

Gazing into the palm of his hand, Asterix saw a small, brown, wooden round shape no bigger than a coin. But it was painted with little red markings that looked like red petals. Intrigued, he asked, “This is a Plectrum?”

With a nod, Sabino told him, “Yes, my trusty old Pick! Its said to have come from a faraway land, fashioned from the shell of a creature called a Kakamora.”

Never hearing of it, Asterix uttered, puzzled, “Kaka?”

Chuckling, Sabino told him, “This small thing has let me play great music in the past, if you want to reach a greater volume and better your technique, you'll definitely need this.” Finishing, he took Asterix's hand and placed it in his palm.

Surprised, Asterix asked, “You trust me to use this, sir?”

“Not without some guidance!” Sabino told him, and then he said, “Just because you have some talent doesn't mean you're refined yet!”

“Oh?” Then chuckling, Asterix replied, “Okay, if you think so.”

“Bah!” Valentino rolled his eyes.

Then, before Asterix's annoyance could settle, Sabino said, “Now come along, let's see you try again.” With that, he walked forward, and quietly, Asterix followed after.

As they returned towards the table, Sabino moved his hand to his chest and said, “That's strange?”

“What is sir?” Asterix asked, curious.

“The pain in here,” he said in disbelief, “It's eased immensely.” Then, looking over at him, he asked, “Are you sure you don't have any magical talent?”

Silent, Asterix then smiled and replied, “Nope! Not one bit, sir!”

Sabino didn't look convinced, but with a shake of his head and a small smile, he sat at the table. Valentino sat by his side while Asterix returned to his chair. Then, he listened to Sabino's instructions on how to improve his technique on the Mandolin.

X X X X X X X X

“Okay!”

Pleased, Asha hung a small bouquet of her gathered Lavenders over the kitchen window. Its sweet scent subtly drifted into the air, bringing a small smile to her face.

But she didn't have time to dwell on this; she had breakfast to deliver! So, preparing quickly, she gathered everything on her trusty tray: her Grandfather's porridge meal, a pot of tea, and some cups.

Making it over to everyone, she happily told them, “Here we are! Sorry to keep you all waiting, I hope-!”

“C'mon! Sit up straighter!”

“Oh, alright!”

In surprise, Asha saw that, of all things, her Grandfather was instructing Asterix with a Mandolin before him! She almost tripped up! However, somehow keeping her balance, she began to dish everything onto the table and curiously listened.

“Lift it's neck higher!” Sabino told him.

“Yes, of course, um?” Asterix worked hard to please him, and then-!

“C'mon, don't be tense! Remember you need to enjoy yourself! Otherwise the audience won't enjoy it with you!” Sabino told him strictly.

Asha, as she listened, couldn't help but feel bad for Asterix. Watching as he tried desperately to get into the proper position her Grandfather wanted, her star boy cautiously asked, “Um, am I alright now?”

“It's better!” Sabino told him, then he instructed, “Now, let's hear another tune from you!”

“Okay!” Asterix replied. Then, with that, he began to play the Mandolin again. But somehow, the music he played now was stronger and louder, making the happy beat he was playing more energetic!

“Wow!” she uttered, impressed. Then, sitting nearer to her Grandfather, pouring him some tea, she asked, “ Are you alright with listening to him play?”

Looking at her, Sabino replied, “Yes, fortunately it doesn't hurt so much which is a blessing.” With that, he took the cup she'd made for him.

Relieved, Asha told him, “I'm glad.” Then she made a cup for herself, and watching Asterix, she asked, “So, you decided to help him get better at playing?”

“Of course!” Sabino nodded, then, looking at her, he smiled and added, “Would you expect an expert like me to do nothing?”

Silent, Asha replied with an amused smile, “I guess not?” Then, she began to drink her tea.

Then they listened to Asterix play. Asha couldn't help but smile hearing his cheerful piece. She could feel it deep within her heart: magical sparks were building inside with each note he played, full of joy. If she tried chanting a spell now, it would surely-!

“Your new friend is definitely very interesting, Asha,” Sabino told her.

Brought out of her thoughts, she was quiet. Then she asked with a troubled smile, “In a good way, right?”

“Mostly!” Sabino told her, but he had to admit after finishing a sip, “Though I am a little worried for him, he seems a bit naïve to me, you'll need to keep an eye on him.”

Laughing, she replied, “Oh, don't worry! I've already been doing that!”

“Well, he's in safe hands then!” Sabino smiled. After a little more, he couldn't help but comment further, “Though he really should take his hat off indoors, it's not very becoming!”

Feeling nervous about this idea, Asha tried fast to think of something that would prevent it from being a future possibility! Then she remembered, “Oh, uh! It's best not to!”

“Hm, why's that?” Sabino asked, looking at her baffled.

“You remember my old friend Dario?” Asha asked him.

Sabino replied, “Yes?”

“He has the same problem as Asterix, he never takes it off, anywhere! It's kind of a touchy subject if you try!” Asha revealed with an awkward chuckle.

“Hmm, really?” Sabino asked, baffled. Then, it seemed he remembered the purple-hatted boy and said, after some consideration, “Well, they definitely have a similar aura, so I suppose it's not too surprising.”

Asha was glad he accepted her words at face value. Then she listened on quietly with her Grandfather once more.

As she did, she again couldn't help but be warmed by Asterix's music. The room seemed to glow in his presence as he played the Mandolin's strings happily. She wondered how her Grandfather had helped him improve. Then, as he strummed the strings, playing a little faster, she noticed her Grandfather's treasured red-decorated Pick!

Shocked, she looked at him and asked, “Grandpa? You've given him your Pick?”

With a nod, he replied, “Of course! Otherwise how else do you think he'd be able to get better?” Then he couldn't help but be a critic and say, “Honestly! I can't believe he didn't know about the benefits of a Plectrum!”

Asha couldn't think of anything to say, so she stayed quiet and revealed a troubled smile. Then, after a few moments, as Asterix began to nod in rhythm with the Mandolin, she asked, “Do you think he has promise?”

“Obviously!” Sabino replied, then sighing as he finished his drink. “Otherwise I wouldn't have bothered to let him have it.”

Quiet, Asha couldn't help but feel pleased and said simply, “I see.”

Then Sabino began to eat the breakfast she'd prepared for him, and after a little, he said, “You know?”

“Hm?” Becoming curious, Asha wondered what her Grandfather would say now?

“I never expected I'd be teaching someone to play a Mandolin, of all things!” Looking at Asterix, he couldn't help but continue and say with a contented smile, “Though I still wish I could play, helping someone else do it... it's a nice feeling,” Then, with warm eyes, he added, “Maybe I should make a habit of it more.”

Amazed, Asha smiled and said, “I'd be happy if you did!”

Her Grandfather chuckled and ate more of his breakfast.

Seeing him do this, Asha thought about what Levi had said before - about how her Grandfather needed something to lift his spirits, something to achieve. Looking over at Asterix once more, she couldn't help but smile warmly at him, for again, he'd been able to light up not only her world but her Grandfather's now, giving him the thing he needed most. Her heart beat with that mysterious, sweet warmth at the realisation of it.

“Wow... okay!”

Then, finally stopping, Asterix looked over and asked, “Am I better now, Mr Sabino?”

“You need work still!” he replied. However, as Asterix began to look a little disheartened, the old man told him with a proud smile, “But don't worry; I'll eventually make you a competent musician!”

Asterix looked surprised, then replied, “Okay, thank you!” Scratching his head, he said, “I just hope I can do it well enough for tomorrow at least!”

“We'll see!” Sabino replied, adding, “Now, c'mon drink some tea! I need to remember some old tunes that might work for Asha's show.”

“Alright!” He said brightly, and with that, Asha quickly prepared a cup for him.

Then, as she passed it over, she told him, “Asterix, thank you!”

He stared at her curiously momentarily, then quietly nodded, seemingly understanding what she meant.

“Beh!” Valentino uttered, unimpressed at their interaction.

But this didn't bring Asha down; she was glad, and everyone there enjoyed their morning together. Asha knew as she watched her Grandfather and Asterix she would need to do her best, too! For there was only one last mystical art for her to learn, and that was mastery over locks!

With all the improvements she'd done with Asterix's help and seeing him continue to improve, too. She was sure she'd master this last skill with no problem by the end of the day! She'd make the magical show tomorrow a massive success with her friends, family and Asterix by her side!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 17 Part 3

X X X X X X X X

Walking up the stairs, back from the dark and cold depths of the underground caves. Amaya and Magnifico finally returned to the castle's corridors, which they knew were home.

The Queen of the realm felt like she'd been caught in the throws of a nightmare, and as she saw the sun's rays begin to peak through the elegant window panes. She saw that the Lividus were not wrong, which irritated her for now-!

“Meow...”

Hearing her beloved feline, she looked down and saw, to her surprise, he was rubbing himself against her hand that had been marked. Surprised by this, she uttered, “Charo...”

Then suddenly, he licked it as though trying to clean away the pact mark from her skin. This tickled, and she couldn't help but be amused. Taking that hand, she stroked him in reply and told him, “Thank you for worrying about me.”

He only nestled silently against her touch, and as she did, she smiled more. Then, looking at the windows, she couldn't help but say, “How annoying, that we have to wait another whole day to get our Star Child!”

“I know!” Magnifico agreed. However, moving his hand to her shoulder, he reassured her and said, “But it should be only one more day, then we will finally have our miraculous Magnifier and when we do, no one will be able to stand against us!” Then, looking further to the sea surrounding them, he added, “And we will have our revenge and take back everything!”

Remembering what they'd promised each other so long ago after the tragedy of the past. Amaya felt strength in his words. She laid her head on his dependable shoulder and told him, “That I can't wait for...” Then she put her hand on her star necklace; she smiled and said, “And once everything is ours, I hope we both make Grandmother proud.”

“We'll be better!” Magnifico declared, then as she looked up at him, Amaya heard her husband state with absolute certainty, “We'll surpass her and make our new realm a permanent one, that no one will ever be able to undermine!”

Quiet at his bold statement, Amaya smiled and nodded, saying, “Indeed, we will!” Looking at their marked wrists, she said, feeling her confidence grow, “For there's no way we can lose now!”

“Absolutely!” Magnifico agreed, then taking his beloved's hand in his, he told her, “Now let's retreat to bed, if we're in luck our soldiers might be able to find some trace of the Star Child in the forest!”

“That would be most fortunate!” Amaya smiled.

“Yes! And...” As they turned the corner, Magnifico and Amaya saw a trio walking ahead of them, who'd woken up to begin the morning duties. The Guardsmen, Captain Lawrence, Nicholas and Jensen. Their backs turned to them as they moved to leave the domains of the castle.

Staring at one of them in particular, Magnifico smirked with sinister intent and said, “Tonight as we let our Lividus search, I think we should commence operations in giving the Lividus what they want!”

Hearing his words and seeing who he was looking at, Amaya could already see what he was thinking of. She smirked too and said, “Agreed, I think we'll enjoy ourselves immensely!”

Magnifico chuckled, showing he was eager like she was, and with that, they retreated to bed, awaiting the coming night when they would finally indulge in their darkest desires...

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 17 Part 2

BLAZE!!!!

The crimson-red flames were ablaze, painting the cave walls with malicious dark magic!

“It's ready!”

Magnifico declared, for beneath him, the magical circle he had drawn with the black chalk pulsed and shimmered in the red light. It was as though it had transitioned into slick, glistening black ink that frothed, raising up like droplets!

Holding his hands out, he could feel it! They were coming! Grinning, feeling the intensity of their intent, he weaved his magic and made the incantation that would call forth the malicious ancient spirits!

“O vos, qui in tenebris habitatis, poenitet!”

FLASH!!!

Then suddenly, within the centre of the sinister animated black circle, a vicious blue fire began to surge and burn, creating a terrifying radiance that seemed to suck out the vibrancy of the red that had surrounded them!

“Mew...!”

Shrinking back from the sinister powers being drawn forth, Charo held onto his mistress more tightly.

She cooed him, trying to be silently reassuring, then turned back to her husband; he looked at her with a confident smile. He hadn't lost control, which encouraged her; she nodded at him to continue!

He made the same silent agreement, turning back to the sinister blue flame that grew. He continued his spell!

“Qui omnes frendent fati oppressione lacerant!”

SCREECH!!!!

Then suddenly, a monstrous cry tore through the air; it was centred in the blue flame, and it grew bigger and bigger with vicious ferocity! The red flames surrounding them had been entirely stripped of any remaining radiance, and the eerie, massive blue flame overwhelmed the cave chamber!

Amaya herself couldn't help but cling to her beloved pet while Magnifico struggled. His strength and determination didn't waver as he finally finished the chant to fully bring the sinister entities into the mortal realm!

“Tristis, Lividus! Egredere et iussa nostra subi!”

SCREECH!!!!

Again, that hideous cry rang out everywhere, and then-!

FLARE!!!!

The blue flame reached its peak and shot up like a volcanic eruption!

It startled Amaya as she looked around rapidly; panicking, she cried, “Are you in control! Are they-!”

“SSSSSHHHH!!!”

Silencing her quickly, Amaya turned back to look at Magnifico. As she did, she then heard him say calmly, “It's alright darling! Don't worry!”

Amaya was finding that hard to do, and Charo was too, as he shivered with terror at the sight of the fiery pillar! She stayed absolutely still and then heard her beloved tell her, “They're just getting comfortable is all!”

Baffled, she didn't understand what he meant when-!

FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!! FWISH!!!

The blue pillar of flame began to die away, and then embers began to rain down all around it. Watching them with wide eyes, Amaya saw these dark embers pulse with a weak blue light, which all sank into the dark waters surrounding them.

...

A chilling silence filled the air, but calm had not returned. Instead, an ominous energy began to rise as-!

BUBBLE! BUBBLE! BUBBLE! BUBBLE! BUBBLE!

Something came alive and began writhing underneath the dark waters! Holding Charo close, she approached her husband. He, in turn, wrapped a comforting and protective arm around her as she came close, which caused her to snuggle into him, desperate for any security and warmth he could give. “It's alright,” he assured again. Then, as he did so-!

GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM!GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM!GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM! GLOOM!

Then dark shapes emerged from the black waters, rising high over them as they studied them with quiet, mysterious intent.

Looking at them, the couple were still. The malicious spirits they wished for were the new shapes that surrounded them. The Lividus.

They were eldritch spirits, spindly, with no faces and something like hair that writhed like coiling snakes. The only thing in the centres of what would be faces were holes resembling inverted teardrops, with a pitiful blue light in the centre. It was as though they had haunting single eyes that could peer into the depths of a weakling.

Staring at them, Amaya had never seen their actual forms. But seeing them now, they were haunting! Yet melancholy somehow, and peering down, she could see what made her feel that way.

In the centre of each creature's chest were empty dark holes that pulsed slowly in and out. This should have been where they held hearts.

However, there was nothing there, and the empty voids they held made Amaya want to step back with a shiver. She hadn't been ready to see this! However, stopping her, Magnfico whispered, “Don't show weakness!” She turned back to him, startled and heard him continue, “They prey on it!”

Realising she wasn't being the bold and noble queen she should be, she nodded and replied, “Alright!” Then, holding his hand, she added, “I will endeavour.”

This made him smile at her with pride and tighten his grip around her, showing his silent belief in her. She was so grateful as she smiled at him.

“What do you seeek from us...?”

A collective voice whispered all around from all the sinister spirits. As they did, Amaya didn't know where to look as she gazed at them all.

“My dear friends!” Stepping forward while moving his protective arm around her, Magnifico began the negotiations and told them, “Welcome to our humble lands of Rosa!” Then, with his free hand reaching his chest, he continued, “I hope you find your current forms suitable for this brief moment!”

...

The spirits didn't immediately respond, as they seemed to study them with something Amaya assumed was curiosity. Then she heard the combined voice speak again,

“They are tolerable...”

Then, as Magnifico lifted his head to look at them again, he heard with Amaya.

“Now what do you seek? What price will you offer?”

Amaya couldn't help but shiver. However, Magnifico replied, “Good question!” Then with a confident smile, he revealed, “We have admist in our domains, a certain creature that I have learned you all have had a keen interest in, since the dawn of time!”

...

There was another pause. However, the creatures seemed restless as their forms slithered like Charo when his hair stood on end. He was currently doing this as he held onto Amaya for dear life!

“Speak its name!”

As the unified voice cried this out. Magnifico was happy to reveal their identity, “A Siderean, otherwise known as a Star Child!”

The creatures froze, all of them seemingly shocked and then quickly, throughout the chamber, a cacophony of astonished voices echoed everywhere,

“Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!” “Star Child!”

Hearing them all, it was clear mentioning them was significant to the Lividus to cause this craze.

Their numerous chaotic voices made Amaya uneasy. However, Magnifico whispered, “I think we have their interest!”

“Clearly!” She whispered back. Though her deepest core was terrified of these creatures, she was simultaneously hopeful. If they got their assistance, then-!

“Where are they!?”

Immediately, their voices became one once more as they made this demand. Amaya shivered at it.

“Calm down! Calm down!” Magnifico told them, then raising his hand to gain all their attention, he told them, “As I have told you, our dear Star Child is within our lands but sadly we have not been able to locate them!” Then, his hand to his chest once more, he continued, “And we need your generous assistance to get them and in return I will grant you what you most desperatley seek!”

Once again, they were silent as they peered down at them. Amaya felt terribly more nervous, even though she didn't know how. She could somehow feel an awful animosity growing in the air that made everything tense, as their forms seemed to seethe a horrible energy.

However, her husband seemingly didn't notice as he asked them, “Now will you assist us?”

...

Again, silence, and after some moments, Amaya felt she had to say something! She began to open her mouth when-!

“Liar!”

Magnifico's smile dropped in seconds, and Amaya froze; the haunting spirits began to change colour from the cold, chilling blue to an enraged red! Their forms began to join and morph into one as countless shadowed arms emerged from their clustered shape!

Then those arms formed sharp claws that targeted straight at them! As they did, the many blue lights that had been in the centre of their faces circled around one who was the dominant voice. Peering down at them, like a single enraged eye that morphed between red and blue, revealing their fury!

Magnifico paled, and Amaya, as she held her precious feline to her. Then they heard-!

“You dare to call us! Feeding us a false promise and no evidence to prove yourselves!”

Then they immediately moved to rip them to shreds, Magnifico held Amaya, and then they heard the malicious spirits declare,

“Now perish!”

Amaya couldn't let things end this way! They'd suffered and lost too much, so biting down her fear, she cried back, “It's not false!” Then she reached into her husband's pocket, and before the monsters could touch them, she retrieved it and-!

GLOW!!!!

Immediately, the golden glow of the feather filled the space! Making the malicious red and blue of the Lividus retreat back! They appeared startled as they gazed upon the golden feather in her hand.

Amazed at her, Magnifico uttered, “Amaya!” She shivered and didn't respond to him. She stared at the monstrosity quietly, wondering if this feather's presence would calm the Lividus's rage. Then, after a silent and tense moment that felt like an eternity-!

“Truthful...”

“What?” She uttered, baffled at first.

“Your words are proven true, and this glow...”

With that, one of the clustered hands of the Lividus took the feather from the shaking woman. Then, watching with her husband, she saw the many dark spirits come apart and become their singular forms once more as they gazed over the golden glow that radiated from the feather, seemingly entranced by it.

She sighed with relief and felt Magnifico's hands come around her. Then he whispered, “Well done darling!” She looked at him and saw him smile with gratitude as he added, “You've saved us!”

Amaya was quiet, but then she nodded with a smile in answer. She showed she was relieved while Charo stroked himself against her, showing his gratefulness, too.

She, in turn, stroked him, then she heard with her beloved-!

“A shining Star Child is truly here!”

“Indeed they are!” Then her husband spoke up again, and as he did, he revealed, “We have no intention of misleading any of you!” It was then the terrifying creatures turned to look at them once more.

As they did so, with their hollowed-out faces and those mysterious blue lights in their centres, Magnifico asked them again, “So, will you assist us? All of you of the Lividus?”

They stayed quiet as they studied them once more; there were no expressions to be read. This couldn't be relied upon; all they could do was wait to hear their voices. The only thing the couple could do was hope that-!

“Your declaration before?”

Remaining silent momentarily. Magnifico then gulped before replying, “Yes?”

“Is it true? Will you truly grant us our utmost desire?”

“Absouletly!” There was no hesitation, and Magnifico continued, “And in turn will you help us?”

“To do what?”

“To gain our revenge, to take back everything that was stolen from the two of us! From the traitors outside our lands!” Magnifico declared. Again, silence came between the creatures as they looked at each other. Then, after they studied each other for some moments, the combined voice asked,

“You have the numbers to supply us?”

“I would say they are adequate for now!” Magnifico smiled and added, “But as soon as we retrieve our Star Child, all of you and us will have all the power we could ever want, with our potential increased hundredfold!” With this stated, Magnifico reached his hand out to them and asked, “Now will you form a pact with us?”

The mysterious creatures all studied them; the royal couple couldn't begin to guess what they were thinking. However, they quickly gained their answer-!

“We will make the agreement!”

Magnifico was speechless for a moment, as Amaya was too. However, to ensure she wasn't dreaming, she asked, “You mean it!?”

“We never make false promises!”

The dominant voice revealed, clearly embittered by her doubt. “Marvellous!” Magnifico cried, then asked them, “So that means you will provide us with-!”

“Yes! The power to subdue a Star Child and to smite those who wronged you!”

This caused Magnifico to become only ever more eager, and finally, Amaya felt her fear flee. They'd done it! They'd finally harnassed the dark power that was always meant to be theirs!

“We did it! We did it!” Then, hugging Magnifico, she told him, “This is it! Finally we...!”

“I know...” He smiled, then held her close and told her, “We will proceed at once!” Then, turning to the Lividus, he ordered, “All of you! Go out into our lands and bring us our Star Child now!”

“We cannot do that right now.”

Shocked, Amaya cried, “What? Why!?”

“The sun has began to dawn and your powers as of now, will not be enough to help us keep the physical shapes we have been bestowed with in the light of day.”

Appalled, Amaya couldn't believe it! “It's that time already!?”

“Confound all those useless fools!” Magnfico uttered, mad.

Feeling hopeless, Amaya turned to her husband and asked, “What do we do now? Is there truly nothing that can be done?”

Magnifico stayed silent for some moments, his hand to his chin. But then, he smirked and said, “No! There is still something we can do!”

Then, turning to their new forces at their disposal, he told them, “My Lividus! Listen closely, here are your next orders I will have you carry out!”

“Very well!”

The dominant voice responded. However, they then informed Magnifico,

“But beware! Once your first command is issued, our pact cannot be broken and if you fail us or your goal, a great price will have to be paid!”

“And it will be!” Magnifico confirmed, and after holding Amaya close, he told them, “Neither of us have anything to lose but each other!”

Amaya was amazed, and then she felt her heart warm as she placed her head against him. A small smile formed, so glad for the love they shared.

“All right!”

Then, gathering around them with a sinister eagerness. Clearly, the Lividus were more than ready to proceed with what their new Masters wanted of them!

“Tell us your orders!”

“I will!” Magnifico told them, and with that, he instructed, “I want you to begin constructing a dark device I devised with my past Master!” Holding Amaya closer, he told them what it was, “I want you to help us create a Prism of Darkness!”

“Agreed!” Then, with those words-!

GLOOM! GLOOM!

“Agh!” “Urgh!”

Quickly, the couple gasped in pain, and in seconds, upon their left wrists appeared sinister dark, inky lines that twisted and turned over each other before becoming something like spiked chains that had the sharpness of a rose's thorns.

They both looked startled for a moment, but the sinister spirits before them said,

“Now let us begin our new endeavour together! Masters...”

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 17 Part 1

(*(Chapter Seventeen)*)

“Uh...” Clearly struggling, Asterix wasn't having the easiest time setting his hair right. Staring at himself in the reflection, he couldn't help but ask, “Why can't I get it right? What's caused this?”

Asha couldn't help but smile, finding his desperate endeavour adorable. Looking at him from behind, she commented, “I guess this is a bad case of hat hair?”

Puzzled as he heard this term, Asterix repeated, “Hat hair?”

With a nod, Asha walked into the room, opened up a particular drawer and explained as she searched, “A person's hair can get messy when they wear a hat for too long, it can take a while to fix it up and get it back to normal.”

Quiet, Asterix then uttered in dislike, “How terrible!” Then, looking at the red wool cap he'd donned, he couldn't help but say, “I don't think I want to wear a hat again if it'll do this to me!”

With a chuckle, finding what she was looking for, Asha told him, “Well, you won't have a choice! If you can't transform in time, then that hat will be your best bet at keeping yourself hidden.” Then she added, “Especially if you don't want people coming after you, thinking you're a Kobalos!”

Asterix was silent, then becoming awkward. He replied, “Uh, yeah, I definitely don't want that again!” However, pulling a strand of his messy locks, he asked, “But how do I fix this then?”

Smiling more, Asha revealed something in her open hands and said, “With this!”

Curious, Asterix picked up the item and asked, “What's this?”

“A wooden hair comb!” Asha told him, then she stepped back so Asterix could use the mirror properly, “It's a spare one of ours, you can use that to straighten your hair out.”

Surprised, Asterix asked, looking from Asha and then at the object, “This little thing can really do that?”

“Of course!” Asha informed him, then she added, “Besides we humans have to wear hats nearly all the time, so obviously we combat hat hair more than you ever do in the Heavens!” Though she did add jokingly, “That is of course if you even do?”

Silent, Asterix laughed and said, “No, we don't actually! We never hide our shine up there!” Then, taking the comb, he told her, “Thanks for this Asha!”

She nodded pleased and then watched Asterix quietly as he began straightening his hair.

…

Standing behind him, with her back against the wall. Staring at Asterix as he continued sorting himself out, Asha couldn't help but become curious. Thinking again of everyone who was struggling and at what Simon had mentioned, she realised something. She didn't know enough about Asterix's people and what they were completely capable of.

“Because if they did exist, wouldn't they have done something already?”

She couldn't help but agree somewhat if Asterix and his people had so much power as they did. Why couldn't they stop the conflict?

Staring at him, with her curiosity eating away at her. She decided to enquire, “Asterix?”

“Yeah?”

As he asked this, Asha was quiet as she tried to find the right way to ask her question. After a little, she thought she'd found it and began, “Um, your people the Sidereans?” He then looked over at her, his combing stilled and as it did, she continued, “What wishes are you allowed to grant?”

He looked surprised, she asked, then looking a little uneasy. After a pause in thought, he averted his gaze and answered, “... Ones that you as humans are capable of achieving.”

Puzzled, she asked, “What we're capable of?”

With a nod, Asterix looked back to the mirror again and continued, “Yeah, because what we're there to do, is to help you realise the full potential of what each of you are capable of achieving for yourselves.” Then quiet again, he said, “We're the lights that shine in the dark, to help remind you that there's always hope and a chance for your dreams to come true.” With that, he smiled at her, looking at her reflection. She looked back at him in surprise, “After all, the goals you've each reached before throughout history have all helped to give us life! Without any of you trying, we'd never have existed.”

Quiet, hearing this revelation. Asha was in awe, then with a small smile, she answered simply, “I see...” Looking down herself, however, she felt she needed more clarity, so she asked him, “So, that means you can't just magically conjure things, huh?”

With a shake of his head, he told her, “No, we're not on the same level as something like Genies!” He smiled sadly, then continued, “We can't bend the rules of the cosmos like that...”

As she heard this, Asha asked him, troubled, “What would happen if you tried to?”

Asterix then became deathly still; as he did, Asha wondered if this was too serious a topic? She was about to stop and change it when he said, “We would have to pay the price.”

Feeling a chill go down her back, she asked him, “What does that mean?”

His hand raised to the jewel that was his heart; doing this, he clenched his hand over it and took a deep breath. He revealed, “The ultimate price... our very lives.”

Shocked to hear this, Asha couldn't process it at first. Then, feeling horror rise within herself, she asked, “You mean, you'd die?”

Asterix didn't respond immediately, but after a little bit, he nodded. As he did, Asha, deep within, couldn't stand that happening. She couldn't let that happen! If it did, then-!

“But death for us, isn't exactly the same as it is for humans...” Asterix revealed.

Again, something else mysterious that she didn't understand. Once more, Asha asked for clarification, “What do you mean, how's it different?”

Pausing once more, Asterix was searching for what to say. Then, eventually, he revealed, “...We go somewhere different then you, somewhere that you may all reach eventually, depending on how you live your lives.” Puzzled more, Asha didn't know what to say to this. Instead, she only stayed silent as she heard Asterix say sadly, “But because we have that guarantee of where we'll end, others like me don't have much relevance in what it means to be gone... to disappear, that loss they...”

It was then that Asha saw it. He was struggling; his eyes were so sad and pained. Staring at him, she couldn't believe it, the bright, happy, joyous shining boy of the stars was now-!

“So I'm sorry, Asha...” His shoulders shaking, he said, “I truly wish that myself and my people could stop this awful war that's taken so much from you all, but... we can't do that! We can't interfere in the matters of life and death, we're-!”

“It's alright!”

HUG!

“Huh!?”

Moving faster than she realised, Asha hugged Asterix from behind. Feeling his warmth in her arms, she told him, “Don't apologise for that... you don't need to!” Then, shaking her head against him, she added strongly, “You don't!”

“Asha...” Hearing him utter this in surprise, she felt him remain still, most likely in surprise.

“I'm sorry you had to learn about it this way, it is awful but...” She tightened one of her hands and said, “This is something that was started by we humans and only we can solve it, that can't be helped.”

Asterix didn't reply to this; he remained still. However, quietly, he moved one of his hands and placed it over her tightened fist. As he did, he held her gently.

Despite the sorrow, Asha couldn't help but reveal a small smile as he did this. Then she told him, “...But, because of you, I want to believe.”

“Believe?” He repeated, puzzled.

Nodding against him, Asha told him, “I want to believe that things can get better, that people can change one day... that there won't be anymore fighting like that.” Then, looking at his stunned face, she told him, “Because you've given me hope now, Asterix.”

He looked astounded, then turned away from the mirror; as she stepped back, he looked at her and asked, amazed, “You really mean that?”

“I do!” She told him, then explained, “Because you've helped me get better so much at magic, and you've truly brightened up my once dismal world more than anyone else!” Then, with an embarrassed chuckle, she added, “I think it's more than you could ever realise.”

“Asha...”

She couldn't look at him; her heart was racing away like crazy. She was so overwhelmed she didn't know what to do then or anything, she was...

Then, suddenly, she felt Asterix come closer to her. He then suddenly wrapped his arms around her as well, gently holding her against himself. Asha didn't know what to do. What was he doing now? Was he-?

“You're the same to me.” He revealed.

“Huh?”

“You've brightened up my world too,” hearing this, she looked up at him. As she did, she saw him looking down at her with so much warmth it left her startled with wonder.

Staring into his wondrous eyes, she asked him, “I have?”

He nodded, then the sad look from before disappeared, as he told her, “Yeah, even though I've been seen as such a pitiful figure in the Heavens, you've helped me achieve something I never thought I could!” Then, moving his hand to her cheek, he continued, “I've felt such warmth inside... when I'm with you, I don't feel so alone.”

Asha became still, learning of this warmth he was talking about. Was it the same she was feeling? She didn't know, but Asterix's words moved her so much that she reached up and held his hand, too. Doing this, she then told him, “Yeah, same, all the negativity when I'm with you just vanishes...I wonder what this is?” Then she chuckled.

He chuckled too, then as she looked into his wondrous dazzling brown eyes, it was like she was mesmerised and somehow, he had the same captivated look as well, then his eyes closed and hers too, she reached for him, and he did the same too, slowly but surely, they would-!

“BBBBAAAA!!!!”

Then suddenly, the wondrous warm moment was smashed to pieces, and they quickly came apart, like lightning had struck straight between them!

Asha felt like she was going to have a heart attack! Looking down fast, she then saw who'd done this. Outraged, she cried, “Valentino!?”

He huffed in response, then uttered madly, “Baa! Baa! Baa!”

Asha had no idea what he was saying, but then she didn't have to guess for long as Asterix said annoyed, “What did you mean before, break it up! Why did you do that?”

“BAA! BAA! BAA! BAA!”

With that, Valentino charged forward and butted him hard in the legs. Pushing him back and away from her.

Appalled by his behaviour, Asha told him, “Valentino stop it! You shouldn't-!”

“Alright, alright!” With that, Asterix jumped in the air and-!

GLOW!!!

His jewel shone brightly, then quickly-!

FLUTTER!

His vibrant orange and glitter-spreading cloak swiftly returned, as it did with a sigh. He told the petulant goat, floating in the air, “I'm going! You don't need to be so pushy!”

Shocked, Asha asked him, “You're going?”

Stopping, Asterix then told her, “Yeah, well I should! You need to get your sleep now right?”

“My sleep?” Asha asked him, surprised.

Nodding, Asterix explained, “That's what Valentino told me, humans need sleep to stay healthy and I shouldn't interrupt something that's so vital for you.”

“Asterix...” Then she saw him leave the room. As he did, she quickly chased after him and cried, “Hey! Wait a minute!” Then he flew straight out the front door!

Seeing this, Asha was still. Then she became sad and looked down at the floor.

“Baa!”

Becoming annoyed hearing him, she looked down at him and said, “This is all your fault Valentino!”

“Pffft!” He uttered, annoyed, turning back, his tail flicked up at her.

Seeing him do this, she was unimpressed. She could feel it; he was getting revenge for losing his voice again.

However, with this behaviour, she would ensure he wouldn't get it back in a hurry, for-!

“Oh! Sorry, Asha!”

Surprised, she turned around again and saw that Asterix had suddenly returned! As he did, she heard him say, “I forgot to properly give this back to you!”

Puzzled, she asked, “Give back?” Then, quickly, she was presented with something, and in surprise, she saw, “Oh, my Mandolin!”

For there indeed was her cherished family instrument within her Star Boy's hands; taking it into her own, she told him, “Thanks for delivering it back to me, Asterix!”

“It's okay!” He smiled, then he looked at her quietly.

As he did, Asha stared back up at him; looking at him, she wondered what he was thinking about. For looking at his wondrous brown eyes, they shined with something. But with what, she could have no idea of, when-!

“Well, I should get going I shouldn't hold you up anymore, goodnight, Asha!” With that, he turned away to fly away again when-!

“Asterix wait!”

GRAB!

“Whoa!”

She stopped him in his tracks! Then her mind rushed a million miles a second, wondering why she did this!?

“Asha?” Then, hearing him again, she looked up at him and heard him say with curiosity, “Are you alright?”

“Oh, no! I'm fine! It's nothing, I...” Then, hating her awkward side, she fought through it and asked him, “I just wanted to ask if you wanted to have breakfast with me tomorrow!?”

Silent for a moment, he asked her, “Breakfast?”

She nodded her reply hurriedly, still embarrassed.

“I'd love that!” Hearing his happy response, she saw him smile in the bright, dazzling way only he could; he then told her, “I've never had that meal before! It sounds great!”

Quiet, she couldn't help but chuckle and then tell him, “It is! I make some great meals! Just you wait till you try what I can conjure up!”

“I'm eager already!” He laughed and told her, “Well, goodnight Asha!” Then, reaching down, he took one of her free hands and told her, “And well done in your magic learning, you did spectacularly today!”

Feeling her heart race with warmth, she blushed. Then, with a nod, she told Asterix, “Thanks!” Also, she added, squeezing his hand, “You were amazing too! Congrats on your new transformations!”

He was still, then he smiled brightly and nodded, too; he told her, “Thank you!” Then, holding her hand for a little more, he finally released her and said, “Well, I'll see you later, sleep well Asha!”

“You too, goodnight, Asterix!” With that, she saw him off through the front door and watched as his glittering shape disappeared into the depths of the trees.

Watching as his glow faded away, Asha was left in the stillness of normality once more. Even though she was going to sleep soon, she felt she'd already awakened from a dream and was missing his glow. She hadn't wanted Asterix to go at all...

“Baa!”

“Urgh...” Annoyed, Asha looked back at the impatient Valentino and sighed. Doing this, she then said, “Fine I'm going to bed!” With that, she closed the door behind her, for the sooner she rested, the sooner she'd see Asterix again!

She couldn't wait for the next day to come, for what would they do together next? She couldn't imagine it, but she could smile with anticipation and did so until the moment she got under her warm and comforting bed covers...

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 16

(*(Chapter Sixteen)*)

“And that's it! That's the whole story I promise!”

Her eyes closed, Asha had her hands in prayer, showing how desperate she was for her friends to believe her tale!

She'd got off Asterix and hurriedly tidied herself while he did the same. He ensured that none of his glow escaped under the red wool of his new hat. In the process, she had conjured a fast story that she hoped both Dahlia and Simon would accept. She'd made sure it was reasonable and logical. At least, she hoped she had!

…

Asha had no idea if her story had worked. The silence was killing her inside; she wanted to know what they thought, but at the same time, she really didn't! She didn't know what she'd do if this didn't work! What was she to-?

“So...?”

Hearing Dahlia's voice, Asha cautiously peered an eye open to look at her. In the light of the lantern, Dahlia was uncertain as she recounted what Asha had told them, “You discovered this guy, um...?”

As she looked at him, her concealed Star Boy answered, “Asterix.”

“Right?” Then, looking back at Asha, she continued, “On the beach during a walk last night, and he's been helping you with your magic learning all day?”

Nodding desperately again, Asha replied, “Yeah, that's it pretty much!” Then, knowing she might be suspicious, she continued again, hoping beyond hope that they believed her, “I know it sounds crazy! But I promise, that's it! We just became friends last night, so...?”

Dahlia stared at her with a sceptical brow and asked, “So what?”

“Uh!” Asha realised her desperation only made her look more iffy, so she said, “That you understand! That's all our relationship is right now, we weren't doing anything crazy! Nothing, like that so...!” She was so red now; she wished that Dahlia and Simon hadn't seen them that way earlier! It was so mortifying!

There was silence before Asterix asked, “What would you mean by crazy anyway?” As he asked this so casually, Simon and Dahlia stared at him. Asha froze, not knowing if he was making things worse, as he continued, “We weren't doing anything wrong, other than practising magic?” Then, as he approached her, he asked, “Asha did I somehow upset you by-?”

Asha, seeing Asterix reaching a concerned hand to her, pulled her hands up defensively and said to keep him away, “No! Nope!” He looked perplexed as she told him, “You didn't upset me, it's just I don't want people to get the wrong idea of-!”

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Then Dahlia's laughter interrupted their awkward moment; as Asha looked over at her, baffled with Asterix staring puzzled too, she told them, trying to hold her sides from the hilarity of their interaction, “You two are a riot! I've never seen you become this awkward, Asha!”

Silent, the magical apprentice then became upset that, again, people were finding amusement in her distress, “Dahlia!”

This only made her red-dressed friend laugh more while Simon, beside her, smiled awkwardly. He wasn't laughing as loud, but it was clear even he was amused quietly by Asha's desperate antics.

While Asterix was only baffled more by this laughter, looking over himself and pulling at his hat, he asked, “Um, have we done something wrong?”

“Nah, no you're good Asterix, don't worry!” Simon reassured him. Then he explained, “It's just been a long time since we've had a new asylum seeker like you here.”

“Asylum seeker?” He repeated.

Asha realised with dread that she hadn't thought more about his backstory yet! She couldn't let him talk too much; otherwise, he might let the cat out of the bag! She quickly got closer and pulled on his sleeve, hoping he got the message to just go with it!

As he stared at her, he read her face quietly, then seemingly registering her desperation. He became awkward and replied to Simon with a troubled smile, “Oh, yeah! That's what I am, that's right! I washed ashore here!”

Asha felt a bit of relief at this; she hoped it would end there when-!

“So what happened? Where'd you run from?” Dahlia asked him, curious too.

Asterix, quiet at first, began to reply, “Oh, I'm from the Hea-!” Then he stopped fast as Asha tugged on his arm harder, this time while subtly shaking her head.

Then, seeing her react this way, Asterix stopped. He seemingly realised what she was trying to say and replied, becoming more troubled, “Oh, sorry, uh! I mean I'm from, uh...!”

Seeing him look unsettled, Asha saw Dahlia and Simon look at him with puzzlement and pursing her lips; she only hoped Asterix wouldn't say anything too outrageous!

Then, after a moment, he seemed to have found his answer and said, “Oh, the village of Healing!”

That sounded too good to be true! Asha wondered why he couldn't have thought of anything better!

Dahlia asked him doubtfully, “The village of Healing?”

“Yeah, it's a small village close to the ocean in England! We're known to have a healing spring there, and that's what gave it its name, so...?” Then, he had difficulty explaining more and came to a dead end. Looking uncomfortable at the deception.

This could have gone much better! Asha was fearful, for if Dahlia and Simon didn't buy it, then-?

“Healing, huh?” Simon asked, then looking at him as he held a hand to his chin. He said, “Well it's not the most original name, but if that's what they're known for, then who are we to judge?”

Quiet as he said this, Dahlia nodded and replied, “Yeah, true, true!”

Hearing him say this casually, Asha relaxed herself. However, she had to know and pulling him down to her, she whispered to Asterix, “Is that a real place?”

He nodded brightly and whispered back, “Yeah it is, I granted a wish there sometime ago!”

Surprised to learn it was real, Asha was just glad they had something to work with now. Also, fortunately, the name wouldn't be hard for her to remember, so she was thankful for the simplicity.

“Well!” Then distracted again, the two of them turned and then walking over; with a happy smile, was Dahlia who extended her hand and said, “Welcome to the Kingdom of Rosa, Asterix!”

Quiet with surprise, he didn't respond immediately, but a smile quickly came, and he replied, “Oh, thank you!” To which he returned the gesture, reciprocating her welcome.

“Yeah! I hope you enjoy your stay with us!” Simon agreed with a happy nod.

Asha was surprised, too, but it warmed her heart to see Asterix being welcomed by her two good friends.

“I am already!” Asterix told them, then turning to her, he explained, “Asha's been really helpful in letting me get to know this place!”

Hearing him give her praise, she was quiet before saying, “Oh, no! I haven't really done that much! I don't need thanks for that!”

Dahlia chuckled and then said, “Look at you! Being too modest again!” Then, walking over, she clapped Asha over the back and told her, “Go on! Accept some credit for a change will ya?”

Asha only laughed awkwardly at this, but she enjoyed Dahlia's boost.

“How old are you by the way, Asterix?”

Hearing Simon ask this question, Asha watched her star boy answer, “Oh, I'm eighteen!”

Simon then lost his smile and said, “Oh, I see...”

Asha became worried, and Asterix was concerned as he asked, “Is something wrong?”

“Well, if you're gonna stay here you're going to need to speak to Lord Magnifico soon.” Simon advised him.

“Huh, why?” Asterix asked him, puzzled.

This was not going to be good to talk about! Then, seeing the sad expression on Simon's face, she knew it was paining him, too. She had to change the subject and fast!

“Well because at this age you're-!”

“Light grow! Grow! Grow!”

SHINE!!!

“Whoa!”

Dahlia quickly stood back, startled, while Simon and Asterix were distracted from their conversation! As they were making a bright light above her head grow, extending from her outreaching arms, she said, “Look guys! Look what I can do now!”

Simon stared at this feat with amazement while Asterix remained quiet. Then, after a moment, he said, “Hey! That's not a bad size Asha!”

“Uh, thanks?” She replied with a troubled smile. She was glad her fast distraction had somehow paid off.

“Yeah that is impressive!” Then Dahlia analysed it herself, correcting her lenses as she got a better look. However, she told Asha, “But honestly, warn me next time before you conjure something! I don't like being spooked!”

Laughing awkwardly, Asha then told her, “Yeah, sorry about that I got too excited!”

Dahlia sighed. However, with a slight smile, she said, “Well, I can see you've excelled in your spell making now!” With a look of fascination, she continued looking over the magic, “Before your little lights were no bigger than small beans!”

“True...” Asha agreed as she remembered what her pitiful spell-making was like before. Then she looked at her star boy, “But as it turns out, Asterix is a genius in magic casting! He's been a big inspiration for me!”

As she said this, her spell dimmed and faded away. As it did, Dahlia was silent as Asterix smiled and nodded, saying, “Well, I try my best!”

Seeing him do this with a blush on his cheeks while scratching the back of his head. Dahlia then revealed a sly knowing look as she said, “Oh, I see...” Then, with a suggestive tone, she looked to Asha and said, “I'm sure his best is real good, huh?”

Asha froze, feeling awkward. For what the heck was Dahlia imagining in her head!?

Asterix blinked, puzzled at her words, while Simon laughed and said, “You can stop being such a tease Dahlia!” Then patting Asterix's shoulder in a reassuring gesture, he continued, “Now why don't you reveal to us what you've come up with for the show!”

Silent momentarily at Simon's words, Asha asked, “The show?”

“Oh, yeah!” Dahlia exclaimed, then looking at Asha, she told her, “I told you I'd come up with something for your performance right?”

Quiet, Asha then remembered and said, “Oh yeah! You did!” Then, seeing the confident look on her friend's face, she realised, “And let me guess, you came to give me the news of what you've cooked up, huh?”

“You got it!” Dahlia confirmed, then standing back a bit, she drew her hands back dramatically and said, “And you're gonna love it!”

Seeing she was keeping them in suspense, Asha couldn't help but love this side of her friend and asked her, “So what is it?”

“We're gonna tell a story!” Dahlia revealed, then pointing to an astounded Asha, she continued, “And you're gonna bring it to life with magic!”

“Oh, that sounds fun!” Asterix cried, then he asked her excitedly, “What kind of story is it!?”

Silent, then laughing at his eagerness, Dahlia told him, “Oh, I'll enlighten you as we get back to Asha's cottage!” Then, she strode forward and added, “C'mon you guys! We gotta use every second we can to prepare!”

Seeing she was leading the group, Simon, with his own troubled smile, said, beginning to walk after her, “There she goes again, becoming chief!”

“Yeah!” Then, chuckling, Asha joined him with Asterix, saying, “And you know how she is! She can't operate with some good tea!”

“True!” Simon nodded, turning to Asterix. He said, “Just to warn you, Asterix, when she gets hyped like this. She does become a bit of a whirlwind to deal with, so I hope you're ready for one heck of a workout!”

He, in turn, only laughed, “Ah, that's no problem at all!” Then, looking at Dahlia's back, he added brightly, “I love seeing people become passionate like this!”

Asha was glad he was enjoying himself, but before she could say anything-!

“C'mon you slow pokes! Time's wasting!”

As Dahlia declared this, Asha shook her head and replied with a chuckle, “You got it chief!”

With that, her spectacled leader nodded, and with that, she led the small band forward, for from her home, it was work they were to go to!

X X X X X X X X

“And that's the plan!”

CLAP!

Dahlia declared as she finished her tale-making, and everyone sat at the dinner table within Asha's cottage, listening to her every word. The occupant of the home prepared something for them in the kitchen.

Asterix looked starstruck as he cried, “That was amazing!”

With a triumphant laugh, Dahlia replied, “I know!”

While Simon beside him looked pretty impressed, too, and said, “Yeah, that's not a bad plan at all.” Then he couldn't help but say, looking at her, “You've really put a lot of thought into this haven't you?”

“How could you expect me not to?” Dahlia told him, then she added, “You know my dream is to become a brilliant author one day!”

Quiet at her words, Simon then couldn't help but lose his awe and quieted a bit as he said, “Yeah, and what else was it? An expert chef? A cafe owner? You just keep making an endless list of jobs for yourself.”

Becoming annoyed, Dahlia replied, “What's wrong with that?”

“Nothing on their own, but don't you think its a bit much to have too many goals at once? You'll never get anything done otherwise will you?” Simon asked her, his critical side unhidden.

“Hey! Multiple options give me more reasons for living, I think you shouldn't be saddled with just one!” Dahlia answered, her arms folded.

“True!” Asterix agreed happily, then with his finger to his chin in thought, he said, “It's good to have plenty of choice! It gives you more chances for success for yourself!”

“See!” Dahlia replied, glad for the support.

Simon then looked annoyed, however, before he could say a word-!

“But it is nice to have a single something to focus on too!” Asterix said.

Surprised, Simon, looking at him, asked, “Really?”

Nodding, his smile still present, Asterix explained, “Yeah, because in that instance all of your effort and passion are focused into it, making you and the goal shine stronger once it's accomplished!” Then he told Simon honestly, “So there is value in your beliefs too.”

It was clear the green-clad young man wasn't expecting this. He then replied, “Oh, uh! Thanks Asterix.”

The disguised star boy nodded pleased, while Dahlia was annoyed again and uttered, “Traitor!” Then, as he looked at her, she asked, “So which of the two of us have the better idea, huh?”

Blinking, it was clear Asterix wasn't ready for this question. Then, stilling in thought momentarily, after a little as Dahlia and Simon stared at him, he concluded, “Well, you could always combine multiple desires and make them one.”

“Huh? How would that work?” Dahlia was baffled by this reply, while Simon looked confused.

“Well, I was thinking from what you were describing, you could own a cafe, make meals while working and on the side you could still write books couldn't you?” Asterix explained. Then brightly, he added, “Or even better, maybe you could decorate it with the books so people can read and dine! That would be something wouldn't it?”

Dahlia was silent and stared at him in shock. Simon didn't say anything, either.

Feeling this stillness rise, Asterix lost his smile and asked, “Um, did I say something wrong?”

“Something wrong?” Dahlia repeated. Then, getting up and moving fast over to him, she told him, “Are you kidding! You're a genius!” Her eyes were lit up like stars as she stared at him excitedly.

Baffled by this, Asterix uttered, “Huh?”

“I never thought of that! That's brilliant!” Then, moving again, she cried as though the Heavens had opened up for her, “I now have an amazing life goal to reach! A book cafe, with the best treats around! And I the astounding author who owns it! What better dream could there be! I can see it now! It'll be....”

Hearing her say this so dramatically, then carry on with the elaborate description of her imagined establishment. Asterix chuckled awkwardly and said, “Uh, Well I'm glad I could give you some inspiration!”

“Ha! Ha! You've certainly have done that!” Simon laughed, and then he said as she continued on and on, “You have a unique way of thinking, Asterix!”

“Really?” He asked.

With a nod, Simon told him, “Yeah! Not many people can do something like that, turning a negative situation into a positive one, that's a great quality!”

Surprised, Asterix then told him happily, “Thanks Simon!” Then he asked him, curious, “May I ask what your goal for the future is?”

Then, as this was put to him, he stilled. He became pained somehow and looked down at the table sadly, unable to meet his gaze.

Concerned, Asterix was about to ask what was wrong when-!

GLOOM...

That awful, pained feeling washed over Simon, polluting his form. Stilling, Asterix felt that awful shiver go down his back again. Feeling it, he then realised with worry, “Simon did you-?”

“The sage tea is ready!”

It was then that Asha walked over to the group with a tray in her hands; making it over, she put it down and asked, “Are you guys having fun? Do you need-?”

Then, stopping, she saw the gloomy look on Simon's face. As she did, she asked, worried, “Oh, no has there-!”

“No! It was me, sorry!” Asterix quickly apologised and said, “I asked too much a second ago, and, ya know...!”

“Oh?” Asha uttered simply, and quickly she said looking worried, “Uh! Dahlia, could you inform me about the story you've thought of?”

Dahlia, distracted out of her dazzle, said, “Oh, yeah! Okay, Asha! Just picture this!” With that, she sat near Dahlia and listened to what she had to say.

While Asterix quietly moved and sat closer to Simon, he said simply, “Sorry...”

With a small shake of his head, he replied, “It's okay...” Then he didn't say anything else, and neither did Asterix.

Quietly, the two of them listened to Dahlia's explanations and watched Asha as she caught up to what the plan was.

However, now and again, Asterix couldn't help but look at Simon. Seeing the wisps of pain emanating from him and remembering what Asha had told him. He couldn't help but wonder what kind of magic existed like this that could take a wish yet leave its Aspirer in so much pain?

But more importantly, was there anything he and Asha could do to fix this?

X X X X X X X X

“So? What do you think?”

As Dahlia finished her explanations, Asha was silent. Staring at her friend, she couldn't think of a word to say. Then, gradually, something came, and she said honestly, “Well... it's definitely ambitious! I'll say that much.”

“But amazing right?” Dahlia asked her, grinning with confidence.

“Uh, sure I guess?” Asha replied with a nervous laugh. Feeling uncertain, she sipped her tea and asked, “You think I could honestly pull it off?”

“Obviously! Otherwise I wouldn't have thought of it!” Dahlia proclaimed with a determined nod! Then she said, “And besides, you've said you've got better right, I'm sure you could do this no problem!”

Asha could only gulp down her tea and replied, “Well, I'm glad to have your sureness on my side Dahlia!” However, with a nervous sigh, she said, “But how can you be sure I can do this without seeing what I can do right now?”

“Because we're friends!” Dahlia smiled happily and added, as Asha looked at her stunned, “Besides, you've never had a chance to show off your talents, and I believe you deserve it completely! After all, I don't know many other people who work as hard as you do in trying to improve on it while looking after everybody!” Then, with a hand on her shoulder and another making a thumbs up, she added, “And if I can help in people seeing this great talent of yours and help them be a bit happier! Then it's well worth it!”

Amazed at her warm words, all Asha could do was utter, “Dahlia...”

She grinned at her speechless reaction, then with a smug grin, she added, “And if it's a huge hit! This will be a great spotlight for me too and I can get the ball rolling on my writing career!”

Then, Asha's awe quickly faded as she revealed a troubled smile and chuckled awkwardly.

“And here I was thinking you were being altruistic for once!” Simon uttered, looking at her unimpressed. His hand was under his chin, and his arm rested on the table.

“Hey! I'm giving you guys a chance all a chance to show off here! It's not just for me!” Dahlia argued. Then she added, “Besides, what's wrong with me getting a little something out of it, huh?”

Silence entered the room. No one wanted to make a reply to this.

“Honestly! Don't look down at me!” Dahlia replied mad, then with one last sip of her tea, she declared, “Besides without my creative drive we'd have nothing to work with for the show!” Then, firmly putting her teacup down, she got up and ordered, “Now c'mon! Let's get outside and get some practise in until we're near zero! We gotta give it our all!” With that, she was out the door!

…

“Wow!” Asterix uttered, then he couldn't help but admit, “I think she has even more energy than I do!”

Sighing, Simon told him, “I did warn you she's whirlwind when she gets going!”

With a nod, Asha said, “True! But she does care in her own way!” Then, getting up, she told them, “C'mon guys! Let's go before she starts to becomes a tyrannicidal queen!”

“I know!” Simon agreed, then he added as they all headed to the door, “Next thing you know it'll be 'Off with your head!'”

Laughing, Asterix said, “Yeah that'd be nasty!”

Enjoying the energy despite the rush, Asha headed with everyone outside as they began practising for the magic show that would take place the day after tomorrow!

X X X X X X X X

“C'mon! Get it up higher!”

At Dahlia's command, in an open spot in her garden, Asha wondered if she'd unleashed a monstrous ruler already! However, following her instruction, she replied, “Right! Okay! Okay!” With that-!

GLOW!

Then, with her blue power, she made the object she was levitating float up higher into the air! As she did, she asked with some worry, “Is this enough?”

“Hm...” Dahlia didn't answer immediately, grabbing a couple of things off the floor. Then, getting them, she walked over and made her analysis and then backed up, dropping what she'd found; with her hands, she made a box-like shape with her fingers. After a little, she replied, “It's perfect! Keep it at this height!”

“Oh, okay...” Asha replied, glad she'd pleased her, at least with this.

“But it needs something more!” Dahlia declared, then looking over it momentarily, she realised, “Clothes! That's it!”

Appalled, Asha cried, “Are you serious!?”

“Always!” Dahlia replied, then looking to the side where Asterix was standing with Simon, she told him, “Right you two! Get going and get some clothing, chop! Chop!”

Asterix laughed awkwardly while annoyed Simon replied, “Who died and made you a dictator?”

“And when did you decide to be a critic? Don't question me!” Dahlia replied, annoyed, then she commanded again, “Now c'mon move it! Otherwise Asha will never be ready!”

With a roll of his eyes, Simon uttered, “Whatever!” With that, he left with Asterix to get what Dahlia wanted.

Seeing them go where the clothesline was, Asha cried out, “Be careful with all that guys, Levi only just cleaned those today!”

“Don't worry about that!” Then Asha's eyes went straight back to Dahlia, and as they did, she heard her say, “Now c'mon, try and say a little bit of the story I told you!”

Quiet momentarily, Asha gulped and replied, “Um, sure! Okay!” Then, closing her eyes, she began,

“Once upon a time, long ago, there was something, no someone who wanted to be more than what they'd been born as!

They had no strength on their own and were left with no one to talk to; they had no way to voice their thoughts until one day-!”

“Hold it!”

She stopped in her tracks, baffled. Asha then heard Dahlia tell her, “Don't do it with your eyes closed! You need to look at your audience as you move!”

Sweating, Asha told her, “Well that's easy for you to say! I've only just got the hang of this! You can't just expect me to-!”

“Hey! We got some things!”

Making it back over, the boys carried a couple of items with them. Simon held an old brown farmer's hat of Sabino's, while Asterix held a long red-!

“No capes!” Dahlia demanded mad.

Baffled, Asterix looked down at it and asked, “Huh? What's wrong with capes?”

“Drab! Old school! There's nothing unique about it!” Dahlia replied, “I want something proper! Grand! Something that will-!”

“Dahlia!” Stopping her before she could go on, Asha told her, “There's no way I can manoeuvre an entire ensemble along with this big object already! You're insane!”

Hearing this, Dahlia was still. She looked offended and folding her arms, she looked away and said, “C'mon! I want this to be the best debut ever!”

“You're forgetting to be practical too, Dahlia!” Then Simon, who spoke up, said, “Look, I don't think the audience will care that deeply like you do about this, remember we got to work with Asha and what she's capable of! Don't push her too much!”

Silent as she heard this, Dahlia looked over at Asha. She had a pleading look in her eyes, with her hands held together, making her silent point.

Seeing this, Dahlia didn't respond immediately, then after a reluctant sigh, she said, “Fine, you can use the cape if it'll be easier!”

With relief, Asha cried, “Thanks Dahlia!”

Her friend, still a little sore though, rolled her eyes and said, “But I expect you to be able to enlarge these two at least!”

Asha's shoulders dropped. Then, with a sigh of her own, she replied, “Alright, alright!” With that, concentrating again, she moved and-!

GLOW!

Quickly, the clothes floated out of Simon's and Asterix's hands and floated before her. As they did, she then chanted,

“Clothes grow, super duper big for me!”

SHINE!!!

With that, the farmer's hat and red cape became bigger and floated over the head of their creation and behind it.

Seeing this happen, Dahlia was silent. However, a proud smile came to her face quickly as she said, “Great! Now we're really getting somewhere, this is what I call an amazing character even with a cape!”

Glad for this praise at least, Asha told her, “Glad you think so!”

Dahlia nodded, then looked behind and said, “And for you two!” With that, getting Simon and Asterix's attention, she moved and-!

THROW!

Landing near their feet were two long, thick sticks, seeing them. Quiet, Simon looked up at her and asked, “What're these for?”

“You two are practising too!” Dahlia informed him, then with a grin, she said, “Besides, I want this to be your chance to shine too Simon, you don't want all that sword practise to go to waste do you?”

Simon stilled as Asterix repeated, “Sword practise?”

However, not happy, Simon told her, “Dahlia! I told you I can't! I've given up my Wish, I can't-!”

“Can't nothing!” She told him, mad, then looking at him with a concentrated stare, she revealed her thoughts, “Just because you feel like you can't be a knight anymore, doesn't mean what you learned to try and get there is a waste, you can use those skills in other ways!”

He was stilled into amazed silence. Then, as he became this way, Dahlia smiled and said, “Because I believe in you, and Asha does too,” looking away from him as she went to focus back on her, she finished saying, “Even if you don't believe in yourself anymore.”

Simon's eyes were wide, and he uttered, “Dahlia...”

Still seeing this interaction, Asha couldn't deny it. Dahlia really was something else! Then, looking over at Asterix, he looked at her, and as he did, she gave a small nod and smiled.

Seeing it, he was still himself. However, he appeared to understand and nodded back, a smile gracing his face, too.

Then, Asterix took up one of the sticks and said, “C'mon Simon, why don't you show me the ropes?”

With that, the green-clad young man looked at him suprised, and as he did, Asterix told him, “I'd love to learn from someone who's an expert!”

Quiet, Simon studied him. Then, with a sigh, he said, “I'm not an expert.” However, picking up the stick before him, he said, “But, I guess I can show you a little of what I learned...” Then, closing his eyes, he said with a sad smile, “Though it has been a long while since I've practised.”

As he said this, Asterix stayed quiet. Looking at Simon, though the painful wisps still polluted him, somehow, just a little of it faded away. Seeing this, he could feel it, and with a brighter smile, he told him, “It'll feel good to try again though, right?”

“I hope so!” Simon told him with a small smile, then getting into position, he said, “Alright, here we go!”

Asterix nodded, and with that, the two of them practised together as Asha was instructed by Dahlia as the small group began their preparations to get themselves ready for the fantastic story-driven magic show!

X X X X X X X X

“Oh, boy!”

Collapsing onto the grassy floor, Asha was exhausted and said, “I think that's it! I'm near zero now!”

“Yeah same!” Simon said, already on the grass himself with his hand over his eyes.

“Me three!” Asterix laughed tiredly as he lay next to Asha.

They'd practised and practised for ages. It was surely way past midnight now! However, though it was rushed and slightly panic inducing. Asha couldn't deny it; it'd been fun doing it with everyone!

CLAP! CLAP! CLAP!

Hearing these three strong claps, Asha opened her eyes and saw Dahlia applauding them. As she did, she told them, “Well done guys! I'd say that was a good warm up, we'll be ready for a longer practise tomorrow!”

Asha only laughed tiredly at this, unable to hide her weariness.

“Urgh...!” It was clear Simon was as enthused as he told her, “Honestly where do you pack all your energy Dahlia?”

“Hey! I'm human like everyone else!” With that, she lay herself down between him and Asterix. As she did, the four circled in the grass, looking upward into the night sky. Gazing into the Heavens, she said, “Besides, you think it's easy bossing everyone and getting them where they need to be? My mind is charging at a hundred miles an hour trying to picture everything on that stage!” Then, with a sigh, she couldn't hide her tiredness either and said, “Trying to reach perfection is a Herculean task you can never imagine!”

Silent as he heard this, Simon replied, “I'm glad not to have that much of an imagination! I'll probably have an easier life than you!”

“Hey!” Dahlia cried mad.

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Quiet, Asha heard Asterix burst into laughter. As he did, she was silent, and he continued warmly, “You two are so funny!”

Staring at him as he did this, Dahlia pouted and then asked, “Is this you getting revenge for earlier?”

“What do you mean?” Asterix asked, looking over at her.

Dahlia was quiet as she stared at him... then as this silence filled the air, Asha was about to speak up when her friend uttered, “Nah, you're too innocent, I don't think you'd have the nerve for something like that!” She looked upward again.

“Huh?” Asterix only looked more puzzled.

Asha laughed heartily and told him, “Don't worry Asterix!” As he looked over at her, she told him, “It's just Dahlia's way of saying you're really nice!”

“Oh!” Then, becoming happier, he told her, “Thanks Dahlia!”

She, however, sighed and replied, “I'm not sure if you'll be fun to tease with that cheery disposition!”

Again quickly, Asterix became quiet with puzzlement, while Simon smiled and said, “I think it's gonna be refreshing to have you around somehow Asterix.”

As he told him this, Asterix replied, though still looking slightly puzzled, “Um, glad you think so, Simon!”

Asha was pleased Asterix was getting along with her friends, and then a quiet moment came between them all. She looked above to the night sky, where she couldn't help but notice and say, “The stars are really beautiful tonight, huh?”

To which she could feel everyone around her turn to move. She stayed silent with them as they gazed up. Watching the stars all twinkle and glow brightly in the sky, Asha couldn't help but remember being with her Father.

Thinking of him and what they wished for that night all that long ago. She then turned to look at Asterix with a small smile; she wondered how he would feel knowing that one of the stars had come and responded to her Wish at long last! She smiled, thinking of the shock and amazement he would have felt if he'd ever met him.

However, as the thought came. A sadness grew inside Asha, too, for thinking of her Father and the Wish he never had granted. To see her Mother again, she looked up and wondered if maybe he had finally found what he wanted in the next life? She could only hope he had...

“Yeah, they are!” It was then Dahlia spoke up, turning her eyes in her direction. Asha saw her reaching her hand up to the skies. As she did, she heard her friend say, “It almost feels like you could pluck them out of the sky.”

“That'd be something!” Simon chuckled and added, “You'd be rich in no time if you sold all those...” with a sigh, he concluded, “Then you'd never have to work again!”

However, sadly, Asterix asked, “Would you really want to sell away something so precious that shines like that?”

Simon then responded, closing his eyes, “Comfort and living is more important.” Then, with a sad tone, putting his hand to his chest, he added, “There's no time for precious things anymore...”

Hearing this pessimistic tone, Asha saddened herself. However, before she could say a word-!

“So says you!” Then Dahlia spoke up, and as she did, she declared, “I wouldn't sell them like that!”

Surprised, Asha asked her, “You wouldn't?”

“Nope!” Then, with an eager tone, she said, “I'd decorate with them instead!”

“Decorate?” Asterix questioned awkwardly.

“Yeah! So we can all shine and glitter!” Then, with her dramatic tone, she said, “I want everyone to be sublime and gorgeous! To make a glamorous and beautiful world!”

Quiet as she registered her words, Asha laughed and told her, “That's so like you, Dahlia!”

“Oh, you think it's ludicrous, huh?” The chief asked. Then, with mockery, she enquired, “Then what would you do instead?”

“Huh, me?” Asha uttered, surprised.

“Yeah, c'mon! Let's hear it!” Dahlia told her.

Asha was silent at this. Then, looking up again, she thought of what she would do. Remembering Asterix being next to her, she looked over at him and saw him staring at her with curiosity; she revealed a small smile and said, turning her gaze upward again, “I'd ask them to help us.”

“Huh?” Dahlia became baffled.

“Well, I'd want to treat them as living beings and see if they'd be willing to help us with our problems.” Then, thinking of what was going on in Rosa, she continued, “Then together we could make some really miraculous things happen! That'd make everyone happy again, so no one would have to hurt so badly anymore.”

“Pfft!” Hearing this splutter, Asha became puzzled and heard Dahlia say, “You silly romantic! You're believing way too much in fairy tales again!”

Asha quietened and became depressed. For was it really too much to-!

“I think that's great!” Surprised, she heard Asterix's voice. She looked at him and heard him say happily, “I'd ask for the same thing! For with someone else with you, you can achieve lots of incredible things!” Then, with his enchanting smile, he added, “I'm sure the stars would be more than willing to help!”

Surprised at this encouragement, Asha felt her heart warm, and she smiled brightly, too.

“Urgh! You two are such saps!” Dahlia complained, then looking up, she said, “How could the stars up there even be alive in the first place? I always thought they were balls of gas burning millions of miles away!”

“You would!” Simon replied with a smirk. However, before Dahlia could launch a complaint, he sighed and said, “But even if there was something like star people or whatever, they wouldn't be able to help us.”

Asterix sounded shocked as he asked, “Why would you think that?”

“Because if they did exist, wouldn't they have done something already?” Then his pessimism only grew as he continued, “None of us would even be here on this Island, we'd all be back on the mainland and... maybe the war would never have happened.”

There was then silence at the mention of the dangerous shadow that devastated all their lives; the mere thought of it chased any brightness away as it loomed over them.

“The war?” Asterix questioned.

Feeling a chill, Asha realised she hadn't explained anything about that to him! She shivered, but before she could say anything-!

“Yeah, the war of the Zodiac!” Dahlia revealed and asked, “Haven't you heard about that? Wasn't that what led you here?”

“Oh!” Then Asterix caught on; Asha tensed, wondering what he would say that wouldn't ruin the facade they'd created! She stayed quiet and then heard her star boy say, “Um, I suppose... the ship I was travelling on was invaded, and I was cast out to sea, losing everyone, so maybe the ones who did that were actually-?”

“Plunderers...” Simon concluded for him; with sadness, he said, “All of us were besieged by them, everyone here on this island.”

“Really?” Asterix asked, shocked; as he learned this, he asked, “Why do that? Who started this Zodiac war?”

“No clue!” Dahlia told him, then with a sigh, she revealed, “It's been going on since before we were all even born, apparently it was contained in just one place, but then the conflict escalated and gradually spread to where we all lived before... leaving our parents and everyone here with no choice but to escape here to Rosa, the only Kingdom left that had peace.”

“It's been that long!?” Asterix cried.

“Yeah, sadly.” Asha confirmed with some reluctance, then as she said this and his eyes were drawn to her, she told him, “You'd probably had never known about it, while being in England all this time, but here in the Mediterranean it's an ongoing conflict with no victor in sight...” Then, despairing, she said, “It'll probably never end.”

Asterix only looked more shocked; he was in disbelief as he uttered, “I don't believe it...”

“It's the only thing you can do!” Simon told him, then keeping his eyes fixed on the faraway Heavens, he said, “After all, it all began because of someone unbelievably evil.”

Surprised to hear this, Asha asked, “You know who started it Simon?”

“My Mother has told me the story now and again growing up,” then as he revealed his source. He recounted what he heard, “The reason the war began, was because of the Zodiac Witch.”

“The Zodiac Witch?” Asterix repeated with a shiver.

“Yeah, her and her Knights, all twelve of them wreaked havoc years ago and conquered the entirety of the Mediterranean Basin, which they ruled over within her dozen castles, with her at the head of it all.”

Silent hearing this, Asterix asked him, “Someone monstrous like that really existed?”

“Yeah, she did... and she became a monster eventually, that even her own knights feared.” Simon revealed.

“They did?” Asha asked, chilled, and then Simon nodded. “What did she do?”

With a shake of his head, Simon told her, “I don't know? No one does... because all the evidence from back then disappeared, literally.”

“What's that supposed to mean?” Dahlia asked him in disbelief.

“The Zodiac Witch destroyed all twelve of her castles simultaneously, taking the lives of all the people who lived in them, and some of the knights who turned against her...” Simon told them as he concluded the dark tale.

Asha had no idea about any of this. Even Dahlia and Asterix were struck into horrified silence. Then the magical apprentice uttered, “That's horrible!”

“I know, but that's what happened...” Simon replied, then continued, “And the war we're all suffering with now is because of her and those so-called knights who hadn't perished!” With growing resentment, he said, “ They've been fighting each other for the left over territories, and outside forces too, who've become greedy! It's all their fault!”

…

As this heavy and awful oppressive atmosphere loomed over them. Asha had no idea about this; she felt a dreadful chill tighten around her heart. She couldn't think of what to say at all.

“Greed is an awful part of humanity...” It was then, to her surprise, that Asterix spoke up. As he did, she was still as she heard him say, “When someone wants too much and can't let go of it, it can lead to great suffering.”

“Obviously!” Dahlia told him, annoyed, then added, “Tell me something we don't know!”

“I'll try...” Asterix told her, clearly not noticing the sarcasm in her voice. Asha felt terrible for him, but she didn't interrupt him as he continued, “But that doesn't mean things can't get better eventually! War doesn't last forever, and if everyone keeps trying, if people band together then that wish for peace will eventually overcome that monstrous desire! I'm sure it will, you shouldn't-!”

“It's taken too long!” Simon replied, angry and upset, “This war has already stolen everything from us! Our old homes and lives... I lost my Dad to it!” A hand was over his eyes as he told his shocked friends, “He fought to protect me and Mom... so we could make it here! He was my hero!”

Feeling the heartbreak in his voice, Asha uttered, “Simon...”

“And now, I can't even be anything like him! I can't be a protector, I can barely wield a sword! I've lost my Wish and...!” It was then that they all could hear it. His voice broke down into sobs, the loss and pain overcoming him.

As his woe echoed everywhere, it was clear words couldn't remedy this. But still, Asha wanted to aid him somehow and do something. Anything! So cautiously, she moved forward and then quietly rested her hand on his free one, trying to soothe it even a little.

However, despite this kind act, it would never truly be enough, and it was proven so as Simon turned away from her, rolling over onto his side.

All Asha could do was stare at him, shocked and still. Then she looked down, detesting herself for being unable to do more for him.

“C'mon...”

Then another voice spoke; it was Dahlia who stood up. Walking over, she kneeled by her friend's side and, with her hand on his shoulder, told him, “Simon let's go home, we've done enough tonight.”

He shuddered at her words. However, he didn't fight her request. After some moments, he gradually stood up, his eyes downcast now, not meeting anyone's eyes.

Dahlia walked beside him, then took his free hand and apologetically said, “Sorry about this, we'll see you tomorrow, Asha! Okay?”

As she said this, Asha shook her head and told them, “Don't be sorry, it's alright!” Then, as her friend kept his gaze averted, she said, “Simon, thanks for everything you did tonight with Dahlia. I know it must have taken a lot for you to make it here, and I'm glad you did it.”

To this, Simon then turned his gaze her way; despite his sad look, she told him, “I know it's painful losing a Wish, but as Dahlia has told you, I'm the same! I don't think you're any less for that, and the fact you keep trying, despite all of that. You're one of the bravest people I know, and I'm so glad that you're my friend.” Then, looking down, she couldn't see his expression. She continued, “I just wish I could do more to help you and ease that pain...”

There was then silence between them. But after a moment, Simon finally responded, taking a shuddering breath, “Thanks, Asha...” Then, as she looked up at him, he said with a pained smile, “That means a lot, I'm glad you're both my friends too.”

“You better be!” Dahlia joked, though with a softer tone. Then she shook his shoulder and said, “You big dummy!” With that, she began walking away with him.

As they began to pass Asterix, Simon told him, “Sorry you're not seeing me at my best...”

Still, he slightly shook his head and said, “Don't worry, I don't mind!” However, he then apologised and said, “But I should have been more considerate before, I shouldn't have mindlessly just preached, I...”

“Don't worry we know!” Dahlia assured him, then reaching her free hand over, she told him, “You were just trying to brighten the mood; we get it.”

Asterix looked surprised, then after a moment, he replied with relief, “That's good! I wouldn't want to ruin a chance at connecting with you two, I-”

“As I said, don't worry about it!” Then, with a grin, she added, “Besides it's hard to trump over talks about wars, it's a real battle in itself, huh?”

Hearing the joke she was trying to make, Asterix stared, and then he chuckled silently, agreeing.

Simon smiled slightly at the two, and with that, they were on their way.

However, before completely disappearing out of sight, Dahlia cried back, “See ya later guys!” Asha nodded, a little happier, and then she waved them goodbye as Asterix did the same.

Then, after some silence, she uttered with a hand to her chest, “Wow! What a day, it's been so crazy!”

“I can't argue with you there!” Then Asterix walked over to her; as he did, he couldn't help but say, “Even I'm feeling exhausted now!”

Quiet, Asha couldn't help but chuckle and say, “Wow! And here I thought you never ran out of energy!”

He laughed in reply, though his weariness was evident. Then he asked, “Um, Asha?”

“Yeah?”

“Can I take this hat off now?” Asterix asked.

Quiet, Asha then realised she'd almost forgotten all about it! Then she told him, “Oh, sure yeah! No one's around now, go ahead Asterix!”

“Thanks!” With that, he moved his hands to the red wool, pealed the hat away from himself, and-!

GLOW!

His wondrous golden glow returned, and seeing it, Asha was amazed. However, quickly, she became silent and surprised at something.

“Wow! That's better! I'm not used to-” It was then Asterix caught her change in expression. As he did, he asked, puzzled, “Are you alright, Asha?”

Quiet at first, Asha couldn't contain it and-!

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

“Huh?” Perplexed, Asterix didn't understand her reaction.

While Asha had to reveal, “Your hair! It's a mess!”

“What really?” Asterix asked her baffled.

“Yeah, it is!” He couldn't see the mess it had turned into, for it was all over the place and looked like it had fought through a hurricane!

“Uh...!” Then the blonde young man hurriedly tried to tidy himself, shifting his hands through it desperately.

But watching him, Asha knew he wouldn't get far without a mirror and told him, “Asterix, why don't you come in for a bit and sort yourself out properly?”

Surprised, he asked, “I can?”

“Of course!” With that, she opened the door for him and ushered him inside, saying, “Come in!”

“Okay! Thanks!” He replied brightly, and he headed straight in to redo himself.

Asha smiled after him, and then she followed, closing the door. She couldn't help but be glad that Asterix could chase away the gloom; however, meeting with Simon and Dahlia had strengthened her inner resolve.

She truly wished now to ease the suffering caused by this mysterious Witch of the Zodiac. If she worked with Asterix and her friends, they could take that first step forward and begin something that would help everyone in Rosa experiencing the same terrible loss...

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 15

(*(Chapter Fifteen)*)

“Here we are...”

Smiling, making it to the centre of the mysterious ritual site, Amaya stood quietly with Magnifico in the mystical space, absorbing its ambience as he smiled proudly.

The round circular stone structure they stood upon was in the centre of darkened waters amid an ancient cavern they'd reached, crossing a path of elevated stones, with countless sharp stalactites hovering above their heads. Looking above them, Amaya couldn't help but imagine that they'd entered the jaws of a voracious beast; it didn't scare her.

However, her beloved feline shivered from the cold air in the space and feeling him do this, she comforted him. Bringing him closer to her, she cradled him. Charo relaxed with her gentle caress, stroking his head into her shoulder. Amaya smiled at this.

“I've waited a long time to do this!” Turning back to her husband, she listened quietly as he looked down at the centre of the round stone. As he did, it was clear he couldn't contain his excitement as he continued, “To think, you and I are going to finally contact the dark spirits of old!”

“Indeed!” Amaya smiled. However, she had to correct him on one thing, “Though, you need to remember dear.”

“Hm?” He turned back to her, puzzled.

Amaya explained, “They are spirits of malice, darkness is simply an element.”

Quiet, Magnifico said nothing at first but then chuckled and replied, “Oh, of course! Pardon my mistake!” Then, looking over the past remnants of patterns that had faded over time, he added, “A commoner's terming can be quite infectious.”

“I know!” Amaya smiled, then looked around the space and continued, “But I can't blame one for thinking the Lividus being that!” Remembering what she'd been taught, she continued, “After all, they have no true physical form of their own, since they are the remains of unfulfilled wishes and hopeless desires.” Thinking of themselves and what they always wanted, along with the people living on their island, she declared, “The unfortunate souls doomed by the regrets and resentments of the mortal realm, never letting them become Star Children.”

Pausing momentarily as she said those words, Magnifico sighed and agreed, “Indeed that is a tragic fate!” However, as he looked at her, he smirked and said, “But with their aid, we and them will have a chance at finally fulfilling our own wishes!”

Quiet, Amaya couldn't help but love his confidence. With a nod, she replied, “Yes we will!” Then, after she finished her observations, she asked him, “Did you bring chalk to begin our magical covenant?”

“But of course!” Magnfico smiled, and with that, he revealed from his pocket a small gold, intricate case. Popping it open with a flick of his finger, he revealed a great assortment of colours within it; doing so, he proudly declared, “A great sorcerer is never without his chalk!”

Amaya smiled, and then she watched Magnifico pull out the selected stick. As he did, he added, “Also, the correct knowledge of what shade to use!” Then, he quickly began drawing the complex summoning circle using black chalk on the grey stone beneath them.

Watching him do this, her anticipation grew, and she heard her husband ask her, “Why don't you add some more lighting around us, Amaya?” Then, looking over at her grinning, he added, “We want just the right atmosphere for their arrival, do we not?”

“Absolutely!” She agreed, then, still carrying Charo with one arm, she moved her free hand and-!

FLARE! FLARE! FLARE! FLARE!

She formed magical red flames, and walking around the circle made them float in the air along the edges, making the surroundings sinister with each intense flicker. While her husband was feverishly preparing for them, drawing with vigour. She set the mood as she eagerly readied for the coming of the malicious spirits of the Lividus!

X X X X X X X X

Moving together, passing under the tall trees of the forest. Asha kept quiet with a small smile, looking forward to the next art she would properly gain control of, Light magic.

She had no idea what she and Asterix would conjure together, but she knew just the right spot to practise with him!

“Are we there yet?”

Hearing her star boy ask, Asha looked behind at him. In the dark of the night, she saw the glowing trail of gold he left behind him as they continued. She couldn't help but feel dazzled by the sight. He looked so much more wondrous in the night, as the darkness helped magnify his warm glow and illuminated the forestry around them.

As she looked at him quietly, she'd almost forgotten how miraculous of a being he was. But the warm light around him made it clear how truly otherworldly he was.

He looked at her curiously, tilting his head, and asked, “Asha?”

Hearing him say her name, the magical Apprentice was snapped out of her silent moment and shook her head rapidly. This was no time to be mesmerized! Then, chuckling awkwardly, she told him, “Oh, um! It's not far Asterix, don't worry!” Then, looking ahead, she pointed and said, “It's just around that corner!”

He was quiet momentarily before replying brightly, “Great!” Then, he flew past her and said, “C'mon! Let's go!” With that, he raced ahead, disappearing behind another grove of trees the path curved through.

Seeing him hurry ahead, Asha worried and cried, “Asterix wait up!” With that, she raced ahead fast to catch up with him! She couldn't let him out of her sight with the worry that he could be spotted!

X X X X X X X X

“Wow!!!”

Hearing this exclamation, Asha, making it to the spot, had to stop and recover momentarily with her hands on her knees. Gasping, she couldn't help but tell him, “Honestly Asterix! You have way too much energy at times like this!”

“Ha! Ha! Sorry!” He apologised simply, floating in the air above her.

Catching her breath after a moment, Asha looked up at him and saw him gaze down at her with a cheery smile. She sighed, then revealed a troubled smile of her own as she shook her head, knowing this part of him would never change.

Then, looking ahead, she saw the environment around them, which caused him to cry out excitedly. The two of them stood together in another clearing, though this one was smaller than the first she took him to, with a big circular pond in the centre of it made by a narrow stream from the main river coursing through the Hamlet.

It was illuminated by the moonlight, making it magical somehow, and it was surrounded by tall green grass with pretty water lilies floating on its surface with circular leaves dotted about with them.

Seeing it after some time, a more relaxed expression came to her face as she told him, “But I'm glad my little practise spot has impressed you so much!”

He looked puzzled and repeated, “Practise spot?”

Asha nodded and explained as they approached the water, “Yeah, this is somewhere I always come to practise spell casting when I'm home!” Asha informed him, then brushing her hands through some tall grass surrounding the pond, she continued, “It's away from everyone else and quiet here most of the time, and plus whatever I conjure doesn't bother everyone else!”

Silent, Asterix then nodded and said, “I see!” Then, moving, he floated over the water's edge. Then, looking at it and around them all, he couldn't help but tell her, “Well, you've definitely picked the most picturesque place to do it!”

“I do my best in selecting!” Asha mused, then finally making it to a particular spot amongst the grass, she sighed and said, “Okay! Here we go then!”

Her star boy stayed quiet while Asha brushed down a part of her purple dress, then flexing her fingers, she told him, feeling mentally prepared, “Let's get to it, Asterix! Let's practise some light magic!”

He stared quietly, chuckled, and told her, “I'm glad to see you've grown more enthusiastic!”

Asha smiled in reply and told him, “Well, that's only because I've got a great teacher!”

“Thanks for the compliment!” He replied, then he flew back over to her. He landed before her on the grass; doing this, he reached up his right finger and circled it in the air-!

GLOW!

A little spark of light began to glow on his fingertip. As it did, he walked ahead and explained the workings of the mystical art, “Much like Levitation, Light magic relies heavily again on ones imagination!” With that, the little glow took off from his finger and then, with a happy expression, he guided it to fly about them.

It flew about here, there and everywhere, like a fast, happy little comet sparkling about, weaving through the tall green grass. Watching it, Asha saw it left a glittering trail that dusted the leaves, making them glow warmly, and as they did, she couldn't help but find it enchanting; she uttered, “Pretty...”

Then, startling her quickly, the light flew straight in her direction, flying around her rapidly in fast circles; she didn't know what to do as it glittered about everywhere, “Hey!” It was leaving trails all over her! Moving fast, she tried to catch it to make it stop crying, “Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!” Then-!

CLAP!

She caught it in her hands! At least, she thought she did? Then silent, as she focused on her gripped hands, she could feel warmth between her palms. She had her confirmation, and she sighed in relief.

“Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Hearing this laughter, Asha looked up and saw Asterix laughing heartily at her. Perplexed by this, she realised quickly, “Wait? You did that on purpose!”

“Maybe?” Asterix teased, then he told her, “But I can't say?”

Baffled, Asha didn't understand him and uttered, “Huh?”

“That little light in your hand moved to the power of my imagination, but the more you use it, the more it potentially grows a life of its own!” Asterix explained, smiling.

Silent as she heard this. Surprised, Asha repeated, puzzled, “A life of its own?” With that, she opened up her palms carefully and there, she saw the little light in her hands throbbing like a tiny heartbeat, revealing that something was living within this wondrous creation.

Astounded, she couldn't believe her eyes. Then, turning back to Asterix, she asked him, “So? This little creation is alive because of the power of your imagination?”

Asterix made a single nod, and then he walked over to her. He explained, “Yeah, the power of light and all elements can gain life, depending on how much imagination one focuses into it.” With that, he reached Asha, then slowly opened his palm and let the light float onto it.

Asha stayed quiet and watched Asterix move the glow to the crystal on his chest. Then, in seconds, as he gently held it against him-!

GLOW!

It became one with him once more; as it did so, he smiled and told her, “All creations of imagination are a reflection of their creator, and the light is one of the best mediums to use to reveal what's inside you.”

Astounded, all Asha could utter was, “Wow!” Then, thinking of what she'd been taught by Magnifico, she told him, “I just thought Light magic was simply used to create, well light, to just brighten up things around you! I never realised you could do that!”

Chuckling, Asterix then told her, “Well in its most basic form that's what you can do with it!” Then, using his hands again, more magical lines of golden light were created that floated about, weaving more slowly around them this time to display his next point, “But any elemental magic, and light especially is much like paint; it can take on any form you wish, it just depends on how much you want to put into it as an artist!”

Quiet as she heard this, Asha was charmed by the many lines of light that Asterix produced. That weaved about, making twirling shapes and various patterns in the air, and shapes like animals, plants, and even some of the food dishes he tried that day! He truly knew how to make things enchanting without trying!

Then, remembering what he said, she looked back at him. Feeling unsure, despite his positivity, she told him, “Well, I'm not sure if I'll be able to make anything as amazing as all this around us with my imagination! After all, I've never been the best at art anyway...” Asha admitted sadly.

“That doesn't matter!” Asterix happily countered.

Blinking, she asked him, “...What do you mean?”

“Magic like art is a medium that can be done in countless ways! There is no correct form to it!” He smiled, then he moved one of his hands out and-!

GLOW!

He gathered all the lines together, forming a big, glowing sphere in his palms. Doing this, he told Asha, “It's all about the enjoyment of the craft, what others think or want from you, isn't the point of why you do it! What does is your personal feelings, for how can you do it if there's no happiness to be found in it for you?”

Silent as he said this, brimming with gentle confidence. Asha couldn't help but be moved by his positivity; moving her hand over, she placed it on the sphere. Doing this and feeling its warmth under her fingers, she smiled and told him, “You really have a way of making a point don't you?”

Asterix simply smiled more, then closed his eyes, imagining something new. The sphere between them quickly moved and shot high into the air where-!

FLASH!!!

The light quickly burst and rained down, becoming a gentle glittering rain that shimmered all around them. Making the scene dazzling and warm underneath the moonlight.

Asha's eyes widened in awe, and then, looking at Asterix, who smiled warmly, she heard him ask, “So? Do you feel more confident to start now, Asha?”

Quiet, feeling his warm, infectious energy again. Asha brightened and replied, “After a display like that, how can I not be?”

Asterix smiled, and as he did, Asha, with her smile still gracing her features, searched inside for the right words to begin practising the art!

Listening within, she felt the warm pulse of her life and magic. As she did, feeling calm and happy, the words to bring about her own form of light began to manifest themselves,

“Oh, come along, let's lighten the world with our new art form!

So warm you feel deep inside!

So overflow and glide! My light!”

GLOW!!!

Quickly, Asha's body was covered by her gentle blue power and from deep within her. A warm white light began to shine within her palms, and she was amazed. She felt something inside move again and guide her, making her take dancing steps forward.

As she twirled and moved, the light in her hands took flight and began to dance around with her in graceful swirls and curves matching her movements. Making the sight enchanting, seeing it around her, she couldn't help but smile as the light morphed, becoming longer and thinner, then it coiled around them, forming a big glowing white ring that pulsed, raising and lowering itself with each step she took.

“Wow!”

Surprised, feeling him exclaim. Asha looked at Asterix; she saw him observing the scene she was creating with amazed eyes, and then he turned back to her. He told her, “You're not too bad for a beginner.”

Quiet momentarily, Asha laughed and said, “Though I'm still not as good as you!”

Asterix then chuckled in response.

Asha smiled, amused, then continued weaving her spell,

“Glow, glow, light grow! Grow! Grow!

With that, within the magical glowing ring she created. Large orbs of light emerged from it, and as they did, they swayed, almost mimicking her movements. Then, somehow, they became reminiscent of dancing figures as they began to take on vaguely human-like shapes.

She didn't see this, though, as she continued to dance away and continued her chanting with closed eyes,

“And together with you!

We'll dazzle the world!

So dance with me, my light!

So all will become wonderful and bright!”

Then, quickly, the shapes became more concentrated and turned fully into actual distinguishable people, all radiant with little glimmering sparkles around them. They were like living dreams as they shimmered with Asha's positive emotions that wanted to enchant all, as they each became dancing couples that lived to celebrate the night away.

Amazed seeing this sight, Asterix was quiet. However, as the figures all danced together with their partners. The caster danced by herself in the centre of the miraculous ring. He couldn't help but feel sad that she was dancing solely.

Thinking to himself, he decided to correct that!

SNAP!

Clicking his fingers, he used his power again and quickly-!

SHINE! SHINE! SHINE! SHINE! SHINE!

Multiple instruments glittered into life in the air with the power of his imagination, and quickly, the enchanting space was filled with music that matched Asha's singing. Making harmony resonate and spread throughout the magical clearing.

Smiling, seeing this, he did the last thing he needed to.

Flying over the ring of dancing glimmering dream-like figures. He reached the centre, quickly took hold of Asha's hands, and began dancing with her!

“Huh!” Surprised, feeling warm hands suddenly grasp onto her own. She saw, to her amazement, “Asterix?”

His happy smile continued to grace his face as he asked, “Do you mind if I have this dance?”

Blinking in surprise at this suggestion, Asha was confused, then looking at the figures around her and seeing what she'd unintentionally created with her imagination, she blushed red. Looking down and becoming bashful, she didn't know what to say. However, looking back up at him and then seeing his warm expression... Asha couldn't think of the words to say. So she nodded her answer.

This only made him smile all the more, and then immediately Asterix took the lead in the dancing. The two of them circled on the grass, with the figures following them in a seemingly perfect rhythm.

As they continued this unexpected waltz together, Asha asked him, “Wow! You're a surprisingly good dancer, Asterix!”

“Only because it's so fun!” He told her and added brightly, “And of course it helps having a wonderful partner!”

This startled Asha again. She was quiet, laughed, and told him, “Honestly! You and your flattery!”

“It's not flattery! It's a fact!” Asterix declared.

“Sure, sure!” Asha replied; she knew better that he wouldn't put on an act, so she told him, “Thanks Asterix!” Then, with that, continuing to smile, they danced.

Asha felt so comfortable, warm and safe in his arms. It was unbelievable; she'd only known him for a whole day. But it felt longer than that. Why was it so easy for her to get along with him? Because he was a person of the stars? The way he enlightened her about magic? His kindness or was it-?

“Looks like I've really swept you off your feet, huh?” Asterix asked her, smiling.

“Huh?” Puzzled why he said this, Asha looked down and saw, “Whoa!

Somehow, he'd moved the two of them over the waters of the big pond! “Eek!” She almost panicked, thinking they were going to fall straight in!

Laughing, Asterix told her, “I cast a little silent Levitation magic on you, Asha! You'll be okay!”

Stilling as he said this, Asha then became annoyed and told him, “Honestly! Tell me before you do something like this!”

“It's fine! Don't worry!” He assured her, guiding her with his movements. The two danced over the water's surface!

Asha saw underneath them, and as they moved, countless rippled rings formed with each step, making it the most enchanting dance floor, reflecting them and the moon hovering over them. Even the Water Lilies around them seemed to spin with them as they twirled about, making room for them.

Looking at him, Asha could sense it. Asterix was making this happen! She never imagined this would come to be; she could never fully capture her feelings by mere words alone.

However, as they continued and she finished a spin by his guiding hand, she simply uttered, “It's incredible...”

“You see! This is why I kept it a surprise!” Asterix smiled, and then, as she looked back at him, she heard him say, “So it feels more amazing for you!”

Quiet again hearing this, Asha sighed and replied with a slight smile, “Alright! Alright! You win this one!” However, she had to add, “Just don't do this all the time, okay?”

“I can't always keep that promise!” Asterix smiled, and then, with that, he guided them up higher and higher into the air!

Feeling startled at this at first, Asha held onto him more closely. However, with him guiding her gently, she gradually relaxed and felt her apprehension subside. As he lead them through the air, she thought he and her were becoming closer to the very stars themselves.

Seeing them shine down over them, like a diamonded ceiling, with her glimmering dancing figures surrounding them. It truly felt then that the two of them had entered the realm of fairy tales as Asterix's magic and hers overflowed around, creating the magical scene. She was sure that there could never be anything more enchanting than this!

It brought a smile to her face, looking up at him quietly as he looked down at her happily. She moved closer to him, then rested her face against his chest, enjoying the warmth and glow that was him.

He stilled momentarily as her head rested against the shining white crystal on his chest.

Feeling him stop, she looked up and asked, “Asterix, are you alright?”

He looked startled, with a warm tinge coming to his cheeks for a change. He told her, “Uh, yeah, no, I'm...” Then he took a breath and told her, “I'm fine Asha, don't worry.” With that, holding her a little closer to himself quietly, he told her, “Your warmth feels nice.”

Surprised to hear this, she smiled, and snuggling closer to him, she said, “Thanks, you feel wonderful too.” Then, with that, the two of them stayed silent as they danced in the air together, under the wondrous moonlight and stars, with the dancing figures continuing to circle them.

…

Feeling the music gradually slow, Asha opened her eyes. As she did so, though she was reluctant, she asked, “Shall we go back down now?”

“Yeah, I guess?�� Asterix replied, though there was some reluctance somehow in his tone. However, before she could question it, they began their gentle descent.

As they moved, looking around at the dancing figures she created, Asha couldn't help but ask, surprised, “I can't believe my light magic has progressed this much!”

“Well that's due to it reacting to your imagination and confidence, Asha!” Asterix revealed with a smile.

Quiet, she asked, looking about them. “They both really helped to do all this?”

“Most likely!” Asterix confirmed, though he did add, “Or they could be forming based upon your memories too.”

Surprised to hear this, Asha repeated, “My memories?”

“Yeah!” He smiled with a nod, then looking at her, he asked, “Have you ever danced like this in a circle like this with others?”

As this question was asked of her, Asha stilled. Then, searching her memories as they continued to lower down, she realised and said, “Yeah, I did! Back on the homeland we used to!” Then, looking at the dancing figures, which were reminiscent of some people she'd felt she'd known, she said, “Also, for a while in Rosa while I grew up here, we used to do dances like this on special occasions...” Then, she remembered some celebratory times in the city with her family and friends. She smiled and said, “They were fun, having celebrations like that together.”

“That's good!” He smiled; however, becoming concerned, Asterix had to ask, “But what do you mean used to?”

Asha stilled, her happy smile left, as she admitted, “...No one has the time or energy to do events like that anymore, sadly.”

Shocked, Asterix repeated, “No time?”

With that, they finally landed back on the grass again. As they did, the dancing figures gradually faded out of existence, and the happy atmosphere left with them as the instruments disappeared, too.

His bright eyes focused on her with worry; Asterix asked her, “You mean the people in this land don't dance anymore?”

Feeling pained, Asha gripped her hand against his chest and sighed sadly, confirming, “Yeah, I'm afraid so.” Then, before Asterix could ask more, she continued, “Everyone's too busy maintaining Rosa and they're too depressed to do it because it brings back painful memories of what we all used to have...” Then, shaking her head, Asha said, “No one wants to face it.”

“Asha...”

Hearing his voice echo his concern and worry for her. Asha didn't want the mood spoiled. So she looked up at him and said with a sad smile, “But, hey! I'm glad I got to share this one dance with you, it was amazing! I'll never forget it, Asterix thank you!”

Quiet at her words, Asterix at first only stared. But then, suddenly moving, he brought her closer to him again, holding her head against his chest. Jumping at first, Asha was about to ask what he was doing when “Don't worry!”

“Huh?” She became baffled.

“I'll make sure happiness comes back here to Rosa with you, so everyone can dance like we did tonight!” Then, strengthening his grip gently, he added, “No one should be deprived of a joy like this.”

Asha was startled. Then, feeling her heart race hearing this, she gradually smiled again, happy that someone cared enough to say words like that to her. Moving her arms up, she hugged him back and said, “Thank you...” Then, with a chuckle, she added, “Honestly, I know it sounds repetitive, but I mean it... I'm so grateful you care Asterix.”

“Of course I do!” Then, pulling back from her, he smiled and told her brightly, “After all, I am your star right?”

Silent, Asha couldn't help but laugh at seeing his smile, and she replied, “Yeah! That's right!” Then, as he chuckled too, it was then-!

GLOW!

She noticed the jewel on Asterix's chest was glowing brightly with wondrous warm light. As it did, she couldn't help but say, “You know this treasure you're wearing Asterix?”

“Hm?” He became curious.

Asha said, “I've noticed the jewel glows really brightly sometimes!” Then, looking at it more closely, she added, “It's really pretty too!”

“Um, thanks?” He uttered, sounding embarrassed.

Puzzled by this, Asha looked up and saw he was blushing again. She didn't understand, and turning back to it, she asked him, “What is it?”

“It's my heart.”

Nodding, she replied, “Oh, I see, it's-!” Then, stopping in her tracks, she looked at him fast in shock and asked, “Wait? What did you say?”

“This white jewel is my heart!” He confirmed again, then with a quiet smile. He put his hand to his chest and explained, “It's the core of my life, and where my magic is fully concentrated, it shines the brightest here.”

In disbelief, all Asha could say was, “You're serious?”

“Of course!” He replied, adding, “I know you humans have the saying, 'wearing your heart on your sleeve,' for people who don't hide their emotions. Well for us, Sidereans it's literally the truth, we can't hide how we feel as our jewel's light up with our emotions!” Then, putting his hand over the treasure that was his life, he added, “I'd like to believe that saying has something to do with my race, when its spoken.”

Astounded, Asha didn't know what to say! But quickly, she moved back from him and said, “Oh! Um, I...!”

“Huh?”

She was clearly puzzling Asterix, but before he could enquire, she told him, “I'm sorry!” Then, looking down, she apologised profusely, “I shouldn't have touched it so casually! I must have made you uncomfortable, that's what made you stop when we danced right? I should have been more careful and-!”

“It's alright!”

Then, moving faster than she thought possible, Asterix got closer to her, and immediately, he took hold of one of her hands. Doing this, he then brought it to his chest again. Holding her hand close to his jewel, he said, “I like your warmth, Asha!”

Startled hearing this, she didn't say a word at first. As her mind processed what Asterix said, she finally asked, “Really?”

Nodding, he continued, “I mean I was startled at first, but...” Then he moved her hand and guided it onto his treasured core. Doing this, he informed her, “I don't mind feeling you here, because you bring me comfort somehow and I know I can trust you.”

Amazed hearing this, and realising now what this jewel was under her fingers. Asha stayed quiet, and then she felt it. A warm pulse that moved like a strong heartbeat. It wasn't scary; it was soft to her, and she knew for sure as she felt its radiance that this jewel was him. Asterix's very life itself.

Astonished as she felt it, she looked up at him and saw his wondrous brown eyes looking into her own. As she did, seeing them so closely, she thought she could see tiny stars shining there in his irises, revealing more of his otherworldliness. He truly was wondrous through and through.

She wasn't sure what she could say then, looking down momentarily. She searched for the right words to say, and gradually, they came. “I'm honoured you feel that way, Asterix.” His smile grew at her words, and a small one of hers came to her face, too. However, becoming determined, she told him, “I promise, I'll make sure I'm careful with it more from now on, so you never have to get hurt again.”

He looked surprised by this, then after a moment of silence, he chuckled and told her, “Thank you, Asha!” Then he held her hands with a firmer grip and told her, “And I'll do the same for you.”

Silent, Asha was puzzled and asked, “What?”

“I'll protect you too,” then with his usual cheeriness, he added, “At all costs.”

Hearing this, Asha might have been flattered or dismissive in other instances. But instead, she became worried and began to tell him, “Asterix, I don't want you to-!”

“Asha!”

Jumping in shock, letting him go. Asha turned around fast and cried, “Huh! Dahlia!?”

Baffled, Asterix repeated, “Dahlia?”

“She's one of my friends!” Asha quickly explained, and then she realised, “Oh, no! I said I'd meet them today! But why here and now, I-!”

“I swear this was it! Isn't this the right part of the woods?”

“And Simon too!” Asha realised, then with dread, she saw the light of a lantern turning around the corner! They'd see them both!

“Asterix get out of sight!” She told him! Then quickly she grabbed him by the hand and pulled him with her, disappearing amongst a few trees nearby!

“Whoa!”

As he cried this, she pushed him against a tree and told him urgently, “Not so loud!”

“I couldn't help it! You suddenly-!”

“Asha? Are you here!”

The two of them stood deathly still. This was not good! If they found him and her here, it would-!

“Hey! I think I see a glow over there!”

Asha's stomach plummeted, turning back around to look at him. She told him, “Asterix! Turn off your glow! Hurry up! Do something, please!”

He looked perplexed, looking about hurriedly, his hands tensed as he concentrated and-!

Dim...

His glowing orange cloak quickly vanished with its sparkling gold behind him going with it, taking away his glittering shine.

Asha began to feel immense relief, but then she noticed-!

GLOW!

His blonde hair was still glowing brightly in the dark! Like a single candle in a dark room, it was too obvious!

“Asha? Are you around here?”

“Just a minute!” She cried back to them; she had to do something and fast! Looking up, she pleaded, “Asterix please! Can't you do something about your hair!?”

Quiet, he then told her, “No! I can't do that! That's impossible!”

“Is someone else here with you?”

With dread, she could hear Dahlia and Simon getting closer and closer! She had to do something right now! If only she had-!

Then quickly, she remembered, “That's it!” With that, she went straight to her satchel!

“Asha, are you sure you're-!”

“JUST WAIT!” She shouted back. This couldn't wait any longer, and she quickly got out the item in question. The red stocking cap, she moved swiftly and, “Here!”

TUG!

“Ah!” In her mad rush to get the cap on him, Asha caused Asterix to fall over and cry, “Ow!”

She flinched with guilt, but climbing fast over him, she pulled the red material down hard, covering all his hair and ensuring no gold speck would shine out! She finally got it into a better position, and then, with a few harder tugs, she hid away every last trace of his glow!

Silent, looking over him as he winced up at her. With utter relief, she collapsed on top of Asterix and uttered, “I did it... we did it! We're safe now!”

Clearly aching, Asterix asked her, trying to catch his breath, “Couldn't you... have been more gentle?”

“Ha! In that short amount of time! You must be kidding, we were-!”

“Uh...?”

Freezing in shock, Asha looked up at her two friends who just arrived, and Asterix looked out from under her, baffled himself.

Staring at them, Asha saw Dahlia with wide eyes and her hand covering her mouth. A blush came to her cheeks, clearly embarrassed as she uttered, “Oh, my!”

Holding the lantern that led their way to them, Simon looked uneasy as he asked, “Um, are we interrupting something?”

Perplexed, Asha was quiet. Then, looking down, she saw with dread why they were reacting this way, for she was right on top of Asterix with him under, and they were dishevelled from the mad rush and panicked dressing.

“Gah!” Asha wanted to disappear into a hole! This was not how she wanted her friends to find her and Asterix! She was going to really hate the explanations she was going to have to give to them!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 14

(*(Chapter Fourteen)*)

“Mmm...!”

It was now later in the day and the sun had just set and hearing him as he turned in his bed, Asha closed the door quietly behind her. She called out cautiously, “Grandpa?”

He groaned again before he shuffled under his bed sheets. Sitting up in bed, he laid his head back against his pillow. Then he opened his tired eyes. As she grabbed the chair in the room, bringing it over with her, she heard him utter tiredly, “Pumpkin?”

Revealing a small smile at her endearing pet name, Asha greeted him, “Hi!” Then she sat beside him and asked, “How are you feeling right now, any better?”

His aged eyes studied her quietly before he replied with a slight smile, “A bit!” Shuffling a bit as he got himself into a more comfortable position, he continued, “My aching's eased quite a bit, but I won't be surprised if I'm still a bit sore when I get up next!” Then, with a sigh, he admitted with a self-deprecating tone, “It's troublesome getting old!”

“I can imagine!” She smiled and told him, “I brought you dinner!” Looking to her left, she and he saw the warm gnocchi she'd made mixed with red pesto, basil and cheese. Then, she took it into her lap on a tray and said, “I got the ingredients fresh today!”

“Lovely!” he told her pleased. Then, as she got a spoon ready, he told her, “I think I've regained enough strength now to use my left hand.”

“Oh, okay!” She told him, then moved the tray and placed it before him. With that, she added, “There you are!” Then, thinking, she asked, “Would you like anything to drink?”

“Maybe later,” he replied, and with that, he began eating the meal Asha had prepared for him.

…

Watching him quietly as he ate. Asha was glad that they'd been able to start comfortably interacting. She could feel the gloom had significantly diffused, and this was definitely thanks to Levi's intervention; she would make the best stew for her tomorrow!

But despite this, she didn't know how to broach the subject, which started the upset with him. She didn't want to lose the precious peace they'd gained; she didn't want to pain her Grandfather. She didn't want to leave him that way again, for he was the only family she had left in this world.

“Oh!”

His satisfied sigh distracted Asha from her troubled thoughts, looking at him. She heard him say, “That was very satisfying!” Then he smiled pleasedly, “Thank you, Pumpkin.”

Silent momentarily, Asha brightened and replied, “I'm glad to hear it!” Then, she took the tray off his lap and put it back on the bedside table. However, before she could say anything else-!

“Also I'm sorry, Asha...” Stopping in surprise as she heard him. She looked at her Grandfather and saw him gazing at her sadly. He lowered his head and apologised again, “I shouldn't have demanded such a ludicrous thing before, I wasn't thinking straight.”

Silent hearing this, the magical apprentice didn't know what to say. Then, with a depressed nod, she told him, “Yeah, I know.” Then moving her hands over, she held his aged ones and told him, “But, I understand too you were hurting then and it just flooded out of you all at once,” with a sad shrug of her shoulders, she added, ”I guess I wasn't ready for a massive wave like that.”

He looked surprised, then with a nod. He agreed sorrowfully, “Indeed.”

Asha hated how he was caught in this throw of pain, so cautiously, she asked him, “So? Has it always been hard like this for you, since Magnifico took your Wish?”

Her Grandfather was silent in thought, and then he admitted, “It wasn't like that straight away.” With a look of nostalgia, he explained, “For the first month, though it hurt a little I could still play for the most part and enjoy it still, but...” Then, looking pained, he continued, “But gradually the more I tried, the more it hurt to do so.”

Asha then felt his hands grip hers tightly, revealing the strain he'd been under all that time until now. Pained hearing this, she stayed quiet as she heard him continue, “I couldn't lift up an instrument anymore... even just looking at one would make it hurt so badly inside I...”

Hearing the strain it took to describe this, Asha told him quickly, “Grandpa! It's okay you don't have to talk about it anymore!” Then, squeezing his hands, she added, “I understand it's painful for you, I-!”

“No!” Stopping her in her tracks, her Grandfather persevered despite the great turmoil he was in and told her, “Asha, it's not only that, that hurts!”

“Huh?” Baffled, she didn't understand. What else could be troubling him so severely?

“It's not just my inability to play anymore... it's what I've, no, what I worry that me and your Father have both unintentionally done.” He told her, his voice full of remorse.

Confused, Asha asked, “Both of you?”

Taking a steadying breath, it took him a moment before he revealed, “...Yes, the fact that we've trapped you here on this island, with no way off! Unable to achieve the goals and dreams you might have been able to do, if we'd stayed on the mainland.”

Shocked, hearing this, all Asha could utter was, “Grandpa...”

The old man's eyes watering, continued, “We were so desperate back then, to escape from the fires of chaos and that war, that we were willing to give up anything! We didn't try and stop to think, if there truly was no other option for us?” Then, taking a breath, he admitted, “That plagues me to this very day! If we'd done things differently, your Mother could still be with us! Your Father, he wouldn't have gradually lost his warm spark of life like me... you'd be properly free, and-!”

“STOP IT!” Halting him before he could continue, startling him. Asha's eyes were wet with tears now, too. Biting her lower lip, trying to keep herself together, she told him, “Don't blame yourself for something that was beyond your control! You shouldn't feel so responsible for that! Both you and Dad, you did everything you could for us, and Mom was the same!” Then she asked him unwavering, “How could I ever hold that against you?”

This time, he looked shocked; however, unable to meet her eyes, he asked her, “How could you not?” Then, closing his eyes, he continued, “All I've done is trap you here, with no parents beside you, unable to flourish... and I can't even play music to entertain you anymore! I'm a useless husk of a man that's-!”

“You're still here!” Asha argued back, then gripping his hands tightly. She told him, “That's what matters to me! That I get to talk to you and be with you, despite what's happened! I don't have a grudge against you or Dad! I never have and I never will!”

He stopped, then after pausing for some moments. He looked at Asha and asked in disbelief, “Are you sure?”

With a firm nod, she replied, “Absolutely!” Then, looking down at herself, she continued, “Because I still remember the chaos too from back then, the helplessness, it was horrible!” Closing her eyes, she described the scenes she saw in her memories, “How those brutish warriors rampaged everywhere, setting homes on fire, and plundering everything that everyone was worth for, or worse...!”

She couldn't finish this part; it hurt the worst for her. But she did reveal one thing about it that always stayed with her, “The screams of panic and pain back then, that's never left me; I even have nightmares about it too sometimes.”

Her Grandfather stared at her with wide eyes; he then uttered sadly, “Asha...”

However, opening her eyes, she told him, “But when I wake up and I find myself here in our wonderful cottage, with Valentino and Levi, then being able to see my friends in Rosa, it makes me so grateful that we've been able to escape all that horror!” Then, with a smile, she added, her happy tears coming down, “I'm glad we made it here, Grandpa! I really mean it!”

Pausing as she said this, he asked her, shaking, “You do?”

Nodding, she told him, “Yeah!” Then, wiping away her tears, she told him, “And it's not like I've never been able to achieve anything here! Because watch this!” Then, holding her hands together, she chanted,

“Magic, Flourish and flow,

Heal all I cherish with a golden glow,

Overturn the tragic,

Empower and flower, my dear!”

GLOW!!!

She felt her power come to life quickly, with her thoughts and wish to heal and help her Grandfather. She laid a kiss on his forehead that quickly-!

SHINE!!!

“Oh!”

Hearing him gasp in surprise under her gentle touch, Asha couldn't help but smile. Then, staying in place for a few moments longer, she eventually pulled back and sat in the chair again.

As she did, she saw her Grandfather looking at her in astonishment! As he did, she said with a smile, “I've been able to make some amazing advancements in magic now!”

Quiet as he heard this, the old man, looking over himself, asked, “That power was-!” Then quickly he realised something! Rolling his right shoulder and moving his arm, he exclaimed, “It doesn't hurt anymore!” Asha chuckled at this as he cried, “I've been healed!”

“Yeah you have!” Asha smiled, proud that her magic finally aided those she cared for.

Looking at her, her Grandfather asked, “How have you managed to excel at such a thing! I thought you were struggling just to-!”

“I was!” Asha admitted, then scratching her head, she continued, “But the other day I've made a new friend who's really helped me finally get these spells under my belt!” Then, thinking of Asterix with a warm smile and blush on her cheeks, she continued, “It's a blessing that I've been able to meet him!”

Her Grandfather, staring at her as she said this, was quiet. Then he chuckled and said with a knowing tone, “I see! I'd like to meet him one day then to give him my thanks!”

Smiling herself, Asha wasn't sure if that could be possible. But the thought was sweet, so she replied, “That'd be good!”

Her Grandfather nodded, then looked over his arm again, still astounded. He continued, “I must say, I'm sure our Majesty Magnifico will be thoroughly impressed when he sees your advancements!”

Laughing herself, Asha agreed, saying, “I hope so too!” However, she had to admit, “But I'm not sure he'd be as pleased knowing I've done this without using Latin!”

“Oh, yes! Your one bitter adversary!” Her Grandfather chuckled. Then, stopping his observations of his newly recovered state, he couldn't help but say, “I still find it amazing that you can cast magic!” Then, looking at her, he continued, “I knew your Mother, Sakina was thought to have a tiny bit of potential but this is on another level!”

“Yeah, I remember! People used to often come to her for medicines and potions before,” then feeling warmth remembering her Mother. Asha continued, “She definitely was a huge inspiration.”

“Yes, she was to everyone!” Her Grandfather agreed, but he couldn't help but ask, “I wonder why some can use this power and others can't?”

Asha was momentarily silent, then she remembered one reason and explained, “Well, Lord Magnifico told me that one reason some people can cast magic is because of the emotions they feel and the use of imagination.”

Puzzled, her Grandfather repeated, “Emotions and imagination?”

With a nod, Asha continued, “Yeah, the greater emotions you feel within, the more magic responds and is conducted into reality, taking form with what you visualise in your mind!”

Puzzled, he asked, “That's all there is to it?”

“No, there is more,” then remembering his explanations, she continued, “Each person usually feels one stronger emotion in particular that empowers a certain kind of magic that one will excel in, for example people who are very fiery in nature tend to be better at casting red class type magic that's usually enhancing in nature or can be destructive depending on the user!” Then, with a hand on her chest, she continued, “While my magic is mainly blue in colour, which lord Magnifico says is a reflection of my calming nature, in me wanting things to be peaceful.”

“Ah, I see...” Her Grandfather replied, then with a hand to his chin, he said, “Well I know for certain that Sakina would have been purple if she had a colour!”

“Yeah, I agree!” Asha smiled, then thinking of her Mother again, she continued, “She had a lot of wisdom and knew how to keep us grounded when we needed it.”

“Indeed, I couldn't describe her any better!” Her Grandfather agreed, then gazing down, he said, “Well your Father and I didn't have much in the way of colours that could of aided you or anyone else, afterall we didn't feel enough or have the imagination to-!”

“That's not true!” Asha countered, then she told him, “You and Dad always shone with colour!” Then, looking through her memories, she continued, “In fact, if I was to say what they were, Dad was pink and you'd be yellow.”

Her Grandfather looked baffled as he asked, “Um? Isn't pink considered a more feminine colour?”

“I don't think so!” Asha said brightly, then she added, “It's a shade anyone can have, and I think it reflects Dad really well; because it's the most caring shade and he always taught me the power of love, how being nurturing and caring is a strength, not a weakness.”

Surprised, her Grandfather asked, “Really?”

Asha nodded again, smiled, and continued, “Yeah, and you inspire me with your yellow magic too, Grandpa!” As he stared at her silently, she continued, “For like I said growing up, you inspired me with all your stories you learnt from all over the world! You made me look forward to experiencing it all and going on adventures, you're the one who's always brought my imagination to life the most!”

Amazed, she heard him utter simply, “Asha...”

Smiling again, she told him, “That's why to me, all of you, no matter what you've done, big or small have all had a big impact on me, which I believe has nurtured and grown my ability to cast magic.” Then, squeezing his hands comfortingly, she told him, “You're all the greatest inspirations to me, and you all are the reason I can become the person I want to be, so I may use my powers to help and inspire others.”

Her Grandfather looked astounded, and then he became teary again when he asked, “So you truly have no regrets about coming here to Rosa?”

“No, none at all!” Asha replied, then she told him, “I'm glad to be here with you and everyone else.” However, she admitted, “But I won't deny it, I've felt the same frustration of not being able to do more when I can and... I miss them, Mom and Dad.” Then, getting up, she wrapped her arms around her Grandfather and told him, “But I'm just glad I still have you. I love you so much, Grandpa...”

She felt him shudder as he was moved by her words. Then he moved his arms and held her, telling her, “I love you too, Pumpkin...and yes, I miss them terribly too.”

She nodded silently, and then they held each other, glad for the warmth of this precious moment and finally able to confront the shadows of regret they had that haunted them for so long...

X X X X X X X X

“Am I to get any compensation!?”

Trying to shut her out of the room, Captain Lawrence told a blue-clad woman who was trying desperately to push her way back in again, “Yes! Yes Madam! But you must go through the proper channels! Now please leave, we have all the info we want from you!”

However, the woman protested and tried to say, “But, but, but I-!”

SLAM!

“Oh, finally!” Finally shutting out the insistent woman who'd been their last witness, Captain Lawrence wiped his brow and said with his back to the locked door, “Honestly! I thought she'd never stop!”

“My sentiments exactly!”

Captain Lawrence, lifting his hand away from his eyes, saw King Magnifico with his hand on his forehead. Rubbing it, he continued with annoyance, barely concealed, “Honestly that was most trying!”

Quiet momentarily, the Captain of the Guard walked towards him and said, “I do apologise your Majesty! I didn't think it would take us this long to get through all the witnesses!”

Magnifico didn't say anything to him at first. But then, turning himself over in his throne, his hands to his head as he lowered it, he enquired, “Did we actually acquire anything useful out of all this?”

Silent again, Captain Lawrence, with a hand to his chin, made his summary: “Well, from everything I can deduce there were probably two Kobalos, one who changed into multiple shapes through the city and another who stayed as a goat, then there might be someone who's assisting them in a blue hood.” Then, worried, the Captain asked, “Have they already been corrupted by it?”

“Easily sorted, anything else?” Magnifico asked, his voice only becoming bitterer.

“Um?” Worried, Captain Lawrence didn't want to do anything to upset his ruler, so he said cautiously, “There was a cat our last witness mentioned who started the chase of the gold creature and...” Then, thinking again of everything they learned, he reluctantly admitted, “I believe that's it?”

“Great! Just wonderful!” Magnifico cried. Getting up from his throne, he continued, infuriated, throwing his hands in the air, “So in other words, we have no leads! Nothing! Nothing whatsoever gained from all these useless witnesses!”

Shaking, Captain Lawrence said nothing. He remained still and petrified, not wanting to upset their magical ruler!

Magnifico sighed angrily, “Was anything learned or spotted from the troops sent out?”

“Uh, no unfortunately...sorry, Your Majesty,” Captain Lawrence apologised, then looking over a piece of parchment he quickly took out of his pocket, he said, “They found no traces of glittering gold or any mentions from anyone outside the city who saw any mishaps or mischief that might have been caused by the creatures.”

“Of course!” Magnifico replied, his displeasure only increasing.

Thinking fast of how he might ease the stress of his ruler, he told him, “I'll instruct the soldiers tomorrow to start combing through the woods! I guarantee you Your Majesty, we will find them, I promise!”

“You better do!” Magnifico demanded, then walking away from him, he said, his hand coming to his forehead again, “This all has become one massive frustrating headache! I need to retreat and have my rest!”

“Of course!” Captain Lawrence raised his free hand in salute. Then, as Magnifico made some distance, the Captain of the Guard had a thought and quickly said, “Um! Just one last thing, Your Majesty!”

“Hm?” Turning around, Rosa's all-powerful ruler stared at him quietly.

As he did, the Captain suggested, “I was thinking, if you required more assistance why don't you ask for aid from your female Apprentice?”

Quiet, Magnifico blinked and asked, “Asha?”

Captain Lawrence nodded, “Yes, if you require more magic to locate these malicious creatures, then surely she might be able to help you to-!”

“That awkward girl can barely light up a room!” Magnifico revealed, only looking more irritated; he continued, “She's nowhere near a level that can assist me right now!”

Captain Lawrence remained silent. It was a harsh critique, but he was the Master of the mystical arts; he couldn't comment on this. He also couldn't risk troubling Magnifico more unless he-!

“Why did you bring her up?” Magnifico enquired, for as he stared at him curiously, the worried Captain heard him continue, “I never introduced you to her. How did you know my Apprentice was a female?”

“Uh, no, Sir we haven't met before in your presence!” Then, as Magnifico stared at him curious, Captain Lawrence explained, “I happened to come across her in the city, before the incident with the Kobalos took place!”

“Oh, really?” Then, silent momentarily again, Magnifico uttered, irritable and tired, “What a coincidence.” It was clear he was not in the mood to think about this incident anymore, and he replied, “Well if that's all you have to offer me, then please see yourself out! I'm turning in for the night!”

“Oh, of course!” Then, with a bow, his hand to his chest, he told him, “Goodnight, Your Majesty!”

With that, the magical ruler disappeared through a door, and as he did, the Captain of the guard turned to head to his own quarters to gain his own rest. He would need all he could get before he and his men would be worked to the bone the next day!

X X X X X X X X

FLASH!

Falling back against her chair, her shoulders relaxing, Amaya strengthened the spell surrounding their island again. As she did, she sighed before looking up quietly to the ceiling.

It was always tiring using this spell; that was a fact. Nothing could be done; it required Amaya's energy to keep any invasive outsiders out. However, even though no new guests had arrived on their shores in some time, she and her husband couldn't risk a surprise attack.

They would never be caught off guard again! Thinking of the past, they could have done more if she'd been stronger and her husband. They could have saved so many of their-!

“Finally!”

Surprised out of her thoughts, hearing his voice. Amaya turned in her chair and said, “Dear you're-!”

HUG!

Then, in seconds, her beloved Magnifico put his arms around her shoulders from behind. Puzzled at first, she was silent and heard him say, “I'm so tired!”

Quiet, Amaya then couldn't help but release a small chuckle as she told him, “There, there!” With that, patting one of his arms, she felt him move a little, becoming more comfortable as he held her, clearly enjoying her touch.

Silent, feeling his warmth surround her, she asked, “So I take it was a troublesome day for you?”

He sighed, and then she heard him say, “You have no idea!” Then, releasing his hold on her, he continued standing again, “Honestly, so many of those so-called witnesses I swear were utterly useless!”

As he said this, becoming disheartened at what this meant. Amaya asked him, “So you gleaned absolutely nothing?”

“It appears so to me!” He replied, then tiredly he began to explain what he gathered, “All I know is this: there are possibly two Kobalos! Also one person in a blue cloak who's assisting them.”

“It must be their Aspirer,” Amaya realised.

“Their what?” Magnifico asked, puzzled.

“The person who's called our Star Child to earth, that's how they're referred to.” Then, after finishing her quick explanation, she encouraged her husband to speak again, “Continue.”

“Oh, I will!” Magnifico replied and carried on, “It all apparently began with some cat who began chasing them down!”

Puzzled, Amaya asked, “A cat?”

Magnifico nodded and began again, “Yes, they caused a ruckus in the city, our people tried desperately to catch them, and they failed!” He said with a bitter tone and then finished saying, “Miserably, might I add! Then they eventually both escaped out of the city, with the help of a pink smoke screen made by this Aspirer!”

Quiet hearing this, Amaya replied, “I see...” This was not encouraging whatsoever. What were they to do now, and when-!

“Meow...”

Hearing a familiar, endearing call, Amaya turned her eyes downward and smiled. She stroked their remaining, treasured family member and was about to greet him when-!

“There was a name mentioned too, Valentino, but it's not familiar to me in the slightest, and I'm sure you've never-!”

“Charo! You absolute miracle maker!”

Spooked, Magnifico turned and asked, “Huh! Charo? What has he-!”

“Darling look!” Amaya cried, and there, now held in her hands, which had once been in Charo's mouth. The one thing that could be the key to their victory was the glistening, glowing gold feather that had come from their desired Star Child!

Magnifico couldn't believe his eyes! He nearly stumbled as he ran over and asked, “Is this it? Is this really it!?”

“See for yourself!” Amaya cried. With that, she let Magnifico take the feather.

She took her beloved soft treasure into her arms, stroking him in gratitude. Magnifico held it in his palms and looked at it excitedly. She heard him cry joyfully, “It is! Finally! YES!!!”

She was pleased and couldn't help but grin ear to ear, stroking Charo all the more. Who was clearly more than glad to be indulged as he smiled.

Magnifico was brimming with victorious glee, and walking over, he told their beloved pet, “You clever little devil!” With that, he stroked him under his chin.

The cat was all the more pleased, uttering, “Meow...”

Amaya smiled, all too pleased with her beloved feline. Then, quietly, she listened to her husband say, “And now with this! We can find it! And then secure it permanently here in the palace! At last!”

Hearing him say this, she was silent in thought herself. Remembering what he described to her that day, she began to form her own idea of how they could proceed.

“I'll prepare a cauldron at once! We'll need ingredients immediately!” Then he stopped in his excited planning and asked, “Wait? Will we need living ingredients or no?” Looking at her, he asked, “Amaya darling, what do you think-!”

Putting her hand up, halting his question, she told him, “I have another suggestion, dear!”

Curious, Magnifico asked, “What is it?”

“How about we begin with an early step?” She asked him with a dark, knowing look, “Why don't we try and make a contract with them?”

Puzzled at first, Magnifico asked her, “A contract?” However, a look of realisation quickly came across his face, and he asked her, “You mean them, the Lividus?”

With a nod, she told him, “The very same!”

Quiet at this proposal, he looked from her and then at the glowing gold feather in his hand. As he did, he asked, “Do you think this would be enough to persuade them?”

“I believe so!” Amaya confirmed, then recalling the past, she said, “Grandmother told me this; they will always assist if you have the numbers to hand over to them, or the proof that you have one of the light.” Then, smiling and looking at the feather in her husband's hand, she said, “And we have miraculously now secured it without having to wait for our numbers to grow anymore!”

Silent as he heard this, Magnifico had to ask, “Do you have no confidence in my magic?”

With a shake of her head, Amaya told him, “No, I do!” However, looking in the direction of the balcony where one would see the rest of the city, she said, “But those fools below would never be able to secure our Star Child, they didn't today, and how could they secure it for us, once we know where it is by our own powers?”

Quiet, hearing her reasoning. Magnifico thought over the facts of the day and realised, “You're right, they couldn't! They'd be no help whatsoever!” His look bitter again, almost matching hers. Then, with a nod, he took her hand and told her, “Very well, let's descend and make our contracts now!”

She nodded, looking more than eager. With that, she stood up, and together, they walked out of the room hand in hand, with Charo following closely behind. They headed into the castle's darkest depths to begin the contract-making with the mysterious Lividus!

X X X X X X X X

After things had calmed down between them, after one last gentle squeeze, Asha released her hold on her Grandfather. Wiping her face, she couldn't help but say with a chuckle, “Wow! It's been forever since we've done something like that hasn't it?”

“True!” With a small smile, he replied, “But, thanks to that I feel lighter inside somehow.” Then, putting one of his aged hands to his chest, he said, “Despite the empty feeling, there's a warmth here now too.”

“Grandpa...” Asha uttered, glad that some of his pain had lessened. But still, that emptiness he was plagued with, if she could somehow get rid of that too one day, would he finally-?

“Asha?” Again distracted out of her inner thoughts, she then heard him say, “Will you be alright to perform this Monday still, do you need someone to play you music?”

Surprised he'd brought it up, she asked, “You want to do it?”

Then, with a sad smile, he told her, “I honestly would like to if I could, but...” With that, he clenched his chest as though it ached.

Seeing this, Asha was still. Then, with a slight smile, she shook her head and told him, “It's alright, I understand!” She told him, then, putting her hand over his free one, reassured him, “I'll be able to perform, so don't worry!”

He looked at her curiously and asked, “You feel confident about it?”

With a nod, she smiled and said, “Yeah, I do!” Then she revealed, “Because the friend who's been helping me use magic, I think he could play for me!”

Blinking surprised, her Grandfather asked, “Oh, he's certainly a jack-of-all-trades isn't he?” Then he couldn't help but smile and say, “I'm even more intrigued to meet him!”

“I don't blame you!” Asha smiled, though she knew if Asterix was going to play or meet him, they would have to do something about his glowing! However, putting that thought on hold, she said, “Though we have been borrowing your Mandolin so he can practise, I hope you don't mind?”

Her Grandfather became quiet then, and Asha became the same. It felt awkward momentarily, but before she could enquire, she heard him ask, “Has he been careful with it?”

“Um?” Surprised he cared, Asha replied, “I think so!” Then she couldn't help but ask, “Though I didn't think it would matter to you much, since well...”

Her Grandfather told her, “Well, I still care for it, even if I can't play it!” Then, with a nostalgic faraway look, he said, “After all, it's an old friend to me that's followed me through the good and bad! It's just frustrating that...” However, it was clear this train of thought was painful to dwell on. So he sighed and told her, “Just please be sure your new friend doesn't break any of the strings on it, alright?”

Silent, Asha couldn't help but find this endearing. Nodding, she told him, “Don't worry, I will!” Then, thinking of the time, she told him, “Well, I better go! I need to get as much practise in as I can!”

“Alright, Pumpkin!” Her Grandfather smiled.

With a warm heart, Asha kissed her Grandfather's forehead. Taking the used dishes with her, she told him before leaving, “Goodnight, Grandpa!”

“Goodnight!” He replied, and with that, she closed the door. Then he snuggled again into his bedsheets.

X X X X X X X X

Moving down the landing, Asha thought about the next lesson she would do with Asterix, which was light magic. She wondered what he had planned for her and what they would get up to?

She couldn't help but look forward to it with a smile, then looking to her right. She noticed a few socks and other small pieces of clothing that Levi must have put out earlier that day to dry on the stairs handrails. Looking over them, her eyes couldn't help but be drawn to one particular item, her Grandfather's red knitted stocking cap with a red pom-pom on its end.

Taking it, finding it dry, Asha thought quietly, “Maybe this could be useful?” She put it into the satchel bag she still had on. It was like Levi had told her; she had to prepare better for the future! So, with this in mind, as she thought about what she would do with Asterix learning light magic, she started to think of ways they might be able to hide his glow from others so neither of them would get caught!

X X X X X X X X

“Baa...”

Valentino had fallen deeply asleep in a brown wicker basket near the fireplace, unable to fight the exhaustion. (Though he had tried desperately!)

As he did so, floating over him quietly, Asterix smiled and-!

GLOW!

Again, he removed the gold dust that allowed him to speak. With this done, he told Valentino, “There! Now you won't cause problems for everyone in the morning!” Then, standing on the floor again, he looked back and said, “Though I'm sure you'll do your best to get your own back on me when you can!”

“Baa...” Valentino uttered, seemingly agreeing within his dreams.

Asterix chuckled, then before he could do anything else-!

“Hey, Asterix!”

Turning, he quickly saw with a smile on his face it was, “Oh, hi Asha!”

Then, flying over to her, he asked, “Are you done having a meal and looking after your Grandfather?”

“Yep! I just finished cleaning the dishes!” She revealed, then jostling her bag over her shoulder and getting comfortable, she told him, “We had a good talk together, it was nice!”

Brightening as she said this, he said, “I'm glad to hear that!” Then he asked, “Are you ready to start learning more magic?”

“Always!” She replied with a nod!

He was pleased with her growing enthusiasm, so he went to leave through the door, but before that, he heard, “Asterix?”

“Hm?” Turning around to look at her, he heard Asha ask, “Have you been taking care of my Grandpa's Mandolin?”

Surprised, she asked. Asterix replied, “Of course, don't worry!” Then he added, “I think I've got better at playing it, I did some more practise with it while you got everything done.” Then, thinking of the new animal friends he'd made in the forest, he said, “Everybody really enjoyed the performance I put on!”

“I bet they did!” Asha smiled. Then she asked him, “Did you bring it with you?”

“Oh, yeah! I remembered this time don't worry, the Brother Bears took good care of it!”

Asha, for some reason, looked a little awkward hearing this; he didn't understand why. But then he heard her say, “Well, as long as its intact I think Grandpa won't be upset.”

Puzzled why she said this, Asterix didn't get a chance to enquire as Asha headed to the door and said, “Well, anyway! Let's get our next lesson underway!”

Quiet, Asterix then nodded and replied, “You got it!” With that, he flew out the door, and Asha closed it behind him. Then, the two proceeded to learn the next mystical art on her list to master!

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes

sparklingdarklady · 4 months ago

Text

On Wings of Happiness Chapter 13

(*(Chapter Thirteen)*)

Beneath the golden pumpkin carriage, Asha and Valentino flew close together. Hiding underneath its shadow, planning their strategy, Asha told her kid, “Alright. You ready to start our plan of attack!”

“Oh, I love that phrase!” Valentino laughed. It was clear he was eager as he smirked and replied with a hoofed salute, “Yes roger! I'm good to go!”

Smiling herself, Asha was glad for his eagerness! Then she pointed and told him, “Alright! Get going Valentino!”

His grin grew, and he charged high into the sky, leaving a trail of blue sparkles behind him. Asha made her own preparations to win this game, as her eyes focused on the treasured ride she'd always wanted to experience since childhood!

X X X X X X X X

Directing the carriage from his comfortable position, Asterix looked around to see what his playmates' moves would be. As he did, he couldn't help but smile. It'd been a long time since he'd been able to do something like this - to simply play and frolic with others - ever since he left the Heavens.

However, as he remembered that realm. He recalled the young voices of those he once considered friends in that gold cloud-filled starry realm,

“Oh, c'mon! Stop being like that! You're so boring!”

“Just play with us!”

“You're so slow! Can't you become something bigger already!”

“Honestly, why keep the long face? Just because you can't see her anymore doesn't mean you have to keep being this way!”

“Just get over it!”

“You're weird Asterix!”

He lost his smile, thinking of them, when he tried to play. After some time, he realised he'd become different from the others. He couldn't be as carefree and light-hearted as they were anymore.

Putting his hand to his chest, feeling the pain of this heavy, painful emotion he didn't understand back then. He remembered finally, when the Elders had the time to explain, that what he was experiencing was the emotion known as grief, and if he wasn't careful, it could break his heart.

Clenching his hand around his diamond, he then remembered them advising him to be patient with himself and find those who could understand his pain to help alleviate it. They tried their best to accommodate him themselves when they could, but finding anyone else who could understand was-!

“HA! HA! HA!”

“Huh!?” Broken out of his melancholy, he turned and saw, “Valentino!?”

The small kid grinned, then rushed at him as Asterix swerved the carriage to quickly turn. He made it to his target and-!

BONK!

He hit him in the forehead, making him fall back! As he did, baffled at the impact, Asterix cried, rubbing his aching forehead, “Hey!”

“Ha! Ha!” The kid laughed and said, “I told you I'd get you back for taking my voice!”

Blinking, Asterix then told him, “That's no reason why you should-!”

“HHHAAA!!!!”

Hearing this loud cry, Asterix saw Asha rushing down to grab him! Seeing her race toward him, he realised then what her ploy was. Quiet in surprise, he smiled and said, “Nice try!” However, moving the carriage fast, he turned it and-!

“Whoa!”

He sent Valentino spiralling backwards from the rush of the wind! As this happened, Asterix told his chasers, “But sadly not good enough!”

Immediately, the small kid cried, “Hey! No fair!”

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Asterix laughed as he drove it down, leaving his golden glittering trail behind. He then heard, “That's my line!”

There he saw in the air where she'd nearly made it to him was Asha, who'd cried this out.

Quiet, he saw her face - pouting with annoyance, her arms folded! Seeing her like this, even this expression uplifted Asterix's mood! He couldn't help but chuckle, finding it so cute! Then, driving the carriage away, he told her, “Keep trying, Asha! I know you can get me!” With that, he drove on, and as he did-!

“You bet I will! And when I do, I'll be the one driving!”

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

This only made Asterix laugh even more, as he enjoyed the game they played together!

X X X X X X X X

Annoyed their ploy hadn't worked, Asha sighed and said, “Honestly! We've got to come up with something better than this!”

“Tell me something I don't know!” Valentino retorted, racing over to her. He folded his arms and said, “It's so annoying! We almost had him!”

“I know!” Asha agreed, then with her hands on her hips. Studying Asterix as he raced through the air, she said, “Just because he acts carefree doesn't mean he can't be sharp!” However, remembering his oblivious moments in social situations, she corrected herself and said, “Well, maybe just in play he is anyway.”

“True that!” Valentino nodded, then watching their golden flying target, he asked her, “So how do we get him?”

Asha was momentarily quiet in thought, then her mind raced with ideas. Thinking of all the other times they tried to seize the carriage, she realised one new way that could work after a while: “We have to make him drop his guard!”

Puzzled, Valentino asked, “Haven't we already done that?”

“Well, you were distracting! I won't deny that Valentino!” Asha replied. However, looking at Asterix, she said, “But what we need to do, is make a situation where he has no time to think! That he's so caught in the moment, he won't realise what we're up to!”

Listening to her, his eyes lit up in realisation as he said, “Ah! I get ya now!” Then, nodding, he added, “Yes! That makes perfect sense!”

“Glad you think so!” Asha smiled.

A smile appeared on his face too, and Valentino then asked, “So what do you think would be distracting enough to make Twinkle Boy not think twice?”

Asha became quiet again, thinking to herself. She looked up at Asterix as he guided the gold pumpkin carriage. She watched and then saw him wave down at her happily.

Seeing him do this, despite the competing they were doing. Asha couldn't help but wave back to him, a happy smile gracing her face. For looking at him, there never seemed to be a moment he wouldn't smile, thinking of the times he had stopped. It'd only been when-!

Her eyes widened as she realised, “Wait! I think I've got something!”

“Oh, an idea?!” Valentino asked, his tail eagerly wagging!

Asha replied, “Yeah!” However, looking up at the carriage, she told him, “But we're gonna have to be careful when we do this, okay, Valentino?”

“Of course! Safety is always my number one priority!” He confirmed with a confident grin and nod.

Hearing him say this, though, Asha felt awkward. She doubted that statement, considering the mischief he'd gotten up to and the trouble he'd nearly landed her in. However, leaving that aside for a moment, she proceeded and said, “Alright! This is what I've thought of!” With that, she divulged her idea to him...

X X X X X X X X

Enjoying riding in the sky, Asterix manoeuvring the carriage higher. He looked around again to see what Valentino and Asha would try next. He couldn't help but look forward to it! What would they do to surprise him? What would they-?

“Here we go!!!”

Hearing Valentino's shout, Asterix turned, preparing to evade again if they tried to get him or the carriage. However, instead of doing that, he looked on silently with surprise.

Instead of charging at him, he saw Asha carrying Valentino in her arms - the two of them heading higher and higher into the depths of the clouds!

Seeing them do this, he was perplexed and asked, “What're they doing?”

Puzzled, he had no clue. But becoming curious, he moved the carriage and had it move with him, entering the cloudy domains himself. Moving through its serene heights, he looked around to find his companions. However, there was no sign of them anywhere!

Concerned, he looked through and around many hills of white clouds. He couldn't see them within these ones, and then he came across a darker one that looked stormy. This was proven more so as he saw small flashes inside it. Seeing it, he worried, asking, “They wouldn't have-!”

FLASH!!!

Suddenly, a brighter flash shone out in the centre of it, then he heard-!

“ASHA!?”

Spooked hearing this shout, Asterix turned to look where he heard Valentino's voice! There he then saw, to his horror, falling through the bottom of the dark cloud, plummeting towards the earth itself, was Asha!

He felt something freeze inside. Seeing her fall helplessly, unmoving through the air, he knew from this height, she would-!

“ASHA!!!!”

He dove straight down to catch her, abandoning the floating gold carriage altogether and raced to reach her! He couldn't let this tragedy happen, and he couldn't bear to lose someone again!

Reaching his arms down, he was getting closer and closer to her! Soon, she'd be safe again and be in his arms! Feeling relief rush through him, he smiled and cried, “Asha! I'm here now! You'll be okay! I'm-!”

“Greetings Twinkle Boy!”

Shocked, Asterix turned around and saw racing down now in the driver's seat of the floating carriage. Was the mischievous kid, Valentino!

Seeing him, the star boy cried, “Why're you-!”

“Like the trick we played on ya?” He smugly asked.

“Tricked?” He repeated, baffled.

“Alley-oop!”

Then, startling him, Asha moved and flew straight back towards him! She pushed her hands into his shoulders and made him fall through the air!

“Huh!?” Startled, he turned and saw she'd made it to the pumpkin carriage!

As she sat in the driver's seat, she smiled and then-!

GLOW!!!

“Golden Pumpkin!

Become my win!

And be my gliding crown!

So all will hear our renown!”

She covered it with her blue shining power, making her the one now in charge of it!

Asterix was astounded by this and was silent. Then Asha turned to him and smiled, saying, “What do you think of that?”

Quiet momentarily, Asterix didn't know what to say. But after a moment, he couldn't help but laugh! Then he told her, “Honestly! I can't believe you!”

Grinning, she told him, “Well, that's the thing in life! You have to be tricky sometimes to get what you want!”

“That's true, I guess!” Asterix replied, chuckling. Relieved, he sighed and told her, “I'm just glad you're okay! I was fearing the worst just then!”

Asha paused at his words, then lowered her head and said, “Yeah, sorry about that Asterix! I didn't want to worry you like that, but it was one of the only things I could think of to get on here, so...”

Hearing the remorse in her voice, Asterix could tell she was genuine. He then told her, “Yeah, I know. I get it!” Then, revealing his smile, he told her, “I am pretty elusive being a Siderean!”

“And a show off!” Valentino added that Asha gave him a harsh look, making him turn away with a fake whistle.

Asterix laughed again at this. However, he decided to say, “But if I may?” To which, as she looked back at him again. He requested, “Please don't do something like that again, Asha!” With his hand on his chest, he told her, “I couldn't bear it if something terrible like that happened to you!”

She stared at him silently, and then, after a moment, a small smile appeared on her face again. As it did, she told him, “Alright, I promise! I won't do something reckless like that!” However, as she manoeuvred the pumpkin carriage to carry them back down to earth, she continued, “But I can't guarantee that if we're playing a game!” Looking at him again as he followed her, she finished, “I don't like to lose!”

Quiet momentarily, Asterix laughed again and told her, “I'll keep that in mind!”

Asha nodded, and the trio descended towards the blossoming clearing.

X X X X X X X X

Landing safely on the grass, Asha was astounded to feel the movement of the carriage as she guided it with her hands! “Wow!” she cried as she drove it around, leaving trailing blossoms that fluttered into the air!

As she guided it, bubbling with excitement, she said, “I never imagined I'd be doing this today!”

“Is riding a carriage everything you thought it would be?”

Hearing the question, Asha looked to see Asterix flying by her side. As she did, she laughed and said, “Well, I wouldn't really call this riding! I'm driving right now!” She told him, and then she swerved, circling around the clearing. As she did, she replied, “But I think, to be honest, I might be enjoying this way more!”

“I can tell!” Asterix laughed.

“You got that right this is better!” Valentino smiled. Then, eagerly, he asked, “Can I drive?”

“Absolutely not!” “Absolutely not!”

Both Asha and Asterix declared, leaving the small kid irritated beyond measure! Then, looking away from them, he said, “Neither of you are fun!”

“No! We just don't wanna die!” Asha told him, mad.

Asterix nodded in agreement but asked, “Asha?”

“Hm?”

Looking at him, she heard him ask, “Why did you both head into that storm cloud before? Weren't you terrified of-?”

“Oh! It wasn't conducting then, don't worry!” She assured him.

Blinking, Asterix then uttered, “Huh?”

“Well not at that moment anyway!” Asha added, and then made the carriage go around another corner.

Asterix looked puzzled as he asked her, “But then why was it-?”

“That was me!” she told him. As he looked further perplexed, she revealed, “I just flashed some light magic!” Then, looking down awkwardly, she added, “The best I can shine out anyway, and I thought it would resemble flashes of lightning that could get your attention, so...”

As he listened to her quietly, he nodded and replied, “Oh, I see!” With a smile, he told her, “That was a good idea considering what you had to work with!”

“Thanks!” She smiled, pleased with the praise.

Then, as she guided the pumpkin carriage in another direction, she heard Asterix ask, “So what do you want to get up to now, Asha?”

As he asked her, looking up, the magical apprentice replied, “Well, the sun's still up, so I can't practise light magic yet, and I've got no lock on hand, so...” With that, she looked at her star boy quietly. As she did, suddenly, it occurred to her, “Asterix?”

“Yeah?”

“Do you want to try practising with your powers?” Asha suggested.

He paused in surprise and asked, “My powers?”

Nodding, Asha replied, “Yeah!” Then, turning in another direction again, she told him, “You told me that you've found it hard to transform into bigger shapes, right?”

He nodded his reply.

“Well, since you managed to turn into a duck while we were in Rosa, I was thinking this might be the right place and time for you to practise!” Asha smiled at him.

However, as she said this. Asterix then said, “But, wait no!”

Puzzled, Asha repeated, “No?”

“I'm supposed to be helping you improve your power!” Then he stopped in thought and told her, “Also, you only have two more days left! You shouldn't waste your time on me!”

Surprised, he said this, Asha laughed and then told him, “Asterix! I don't want this to be just about me!”

“Huh?” He looked baffled at her words.

Asha told him, “I want to help you, too!” Then, redirecting the carriage again, she added, “You've done a lot for me already. Thanks to you, I've now mastered three types of magic!” With a smile, she told him, “If that's not reason enough to want to help you, I don't know what is!”

He looked at her astounded and asked, “You really mean it?”

“Absolutely!” She smiled and added, “And since we had so much fun with this carriage, why not use it again?”

Asterix, curious, asked her, “What do you mean?”

“To play another game of chase!” She told him, then-!

GLOW!!!

“Faster, faster with laughter!”

With this simple chant, the carriage charged faster ahead as Asha laughed!

As she did, Asterix cried, “Asha!?”

Looking back, she cried back with a smile, “Try and catch us now! Become bigger shapes so you can make it to us!” Then she added, racing ahead, “You can do it Asterix, I believe in you!” With that, the next round of playing had begun!

X X X X X X X X

Seeing Asha take off in the carriage fast, he thought of the spell she'd cast. “I hope she doesn't laugh too much! Otherwise, I'll never be able to catch them!”

Then, becoming silent, he remembered again that moment he tried to think of what allowed him to transform into his duck form. Everything had been such a chaotic mess; he just wanted to get away from all those crazed hands and find his sister. Then, stopping and focusing on the carriage, seeing Asha directing its fast movement to make another fast turn, he remembered his strongest desire: to be with her!

Looking at his golden form, he stopped in amazement and asked, “Wanting? Is that what I need to transform?”

However, thinking again to himself, he shook his head. It couldn't be only just that, for he'd wanted many things for a long time! That simple desire on its own couldn't be enough.

There had to be more than that! But what was it, though? His mind ached as he tried to think of it. But still, nothing came to him! This was so frustrating; this was why he found it so hard in the first place! He just didn't understand what particular thing he needed that the others in his childhood had that could let them do it so easily!

He couldn't think of it all! It just wasn't-!

“C'mon Twinkle Boy!”

Quickly distracted out of his thoughts again, Asterix saw Valentino waving at him! Sitting beside Asha, clearly enjoying the fast speed, he heard him cry, “Don't hold anything back, hurry up already!”

Staring at him in disbelief, the star boy couldn't help but say! “That's easy for you to say!” Then, turning away, he added, “I don't know where all that confidence he has-!”

Then suddenly, he stopped in his tracks, repeating, “Confidence?” For then, he remembered, that must be it. That was the one thing holding him back - his lack of it!

Thinking of the other Sidereans, they were so carefree and confident he realised because they'd never had those feelings dashed like him. Looking at his hands, he wondered, “Can I ever get that strong feeling back? So I can transform into something bigger with no fear?”

He didn't know; he felt uncertain. Looking at the gold carriage again and seeing Asha having fun with Valentino, riding away with no care in the world, he couldn't help but be envious. He wanted to be with them and have fun like them, too!

Then, Asha caught him looking. As she did, he became astounded as she waved at him with a joyful smile.

Seeing her do this, he then remembered the words she cried out to him,

“You can do it Asterix, I believe in you!”

As they came back to him, he then felt something and-!

GLOW!!!!

His body glowed brightly over with warm light! Feeling amazement, he asked, “This is-?”

However, he didn't have time to ask as suddenly his body morphed and changed! He felt startled and fearful; this stopped the transformation briefly. But remembering Asha's smiling face and her words. Knowing her belief in him, he also wanted to believe in himself. He sighed, letting the hesitation flow away, and then he became smaller, but not down to the size he was used to! His ears became longer, his legs too and-!

SPARKLE!!!

Quickly, his new shape was revealed! He'd transformed into a bigger creature than usual - a Hare!

Feeling his ears and looking over his back at his cotton tail, he couldn't believe it! “I've done it!” He cried! Then, hopping for joy around the grass, he cried, “I don't believe it! I've really done it!”

Then, watching the carriage continue to race away, he knew he could catch up to them! Feeling the warmth in his heart, he realised now what he was missing to make this work: belief in himself and the now-growing confidence to do this!

His heart warmed, remembering Asha's words. He then pushed himself, rushing forward to catch up with them! Feeling his excitement and happiness grow, now understanding the key emotions he'd been missing all that time, he let this power flourish. It was all thanks to Asha and Valentino's encouragement, and he was determined to impress them with the new shapes that were available to him now!

X X X X X X X X

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!”

Enjoying the speed they were racing at, Asha couldn't believe the freedom and ease she was experiencing then! It was so much that she couldn't help but say, “I haven't had so much fun in forever!”

“This is the most fun I've ever had in all my life!” Valentino agreed, grinning widely as his ears flopped about!

As he said this, Asha smiled and said, “Well, you are only a month old so it would be!”

Valentino became annoyed and protested, “Hey! I'm no baby!”

Asha, grinning, was about to make her retort when-!

“ASHA!”

Distracted, she turned and saw Asterix running amongst the grass! However, he was in a new form: a Hare!

Amazed, she laughed and said, “I knew you could do it!” Then, smiling brightly, she told him, “Well done, Asterix!”

“Thanks!” He cried as he raced on his long legs, eager to catch them!

Seeing that he was also overcoming his inadequacy, Asha was glad she could help him however she could. If she could thank him this way, then-!

“Ha!”

Hearing this scoff of a laugh, Asha saw Valentino looking over at Asterix. As she did, silently, she heard him say mockingly, “That's the best you can do Twinkle Boy? I'm not impressed in the slightest!”

Annoyed, Asha was about to give him a telling-off when-!

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!!!!”

He laughed louder and quickly-!

GLOW!!!!

The carriage glowed brightly with Asha's blue power! As it did-!

“Whoa!”

The carriage charged up at an even faster speed, making Asha unbalanced! She clung to her seat for dear life and cried, annoyed, “Valentino, what're you doing!?”

“Putting Twinkle Boy through his paces!” Valentino grinned, then added, as they sped away, “After all! If he wants to get better at changing shapes, we gotta give him the crash course!”

Appalled at him, Asha cried, distressed, “You're just going to have us crash at this fast pace!” Then, quickly, she moved to grab him! However, he evaded her grasp and-!

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!!!!”

He laughed louder again, speeding up the carriage charge! This sudden increase caused Asha to fall backwards and-!

“Agh!”

Made her fall through the opened hole that was the carriage window behind them, landing on its surprisingly soft, cushy interior. She cried out, “Valentino, stop it!”

However, the rebellious kid grinned through the window and told her, “NEVER!” Then, seeing he was in control, he cried, “Now come! I'll show you the world!”

Feeling dread creeping up her spine, Asha realised things had gotten out of control again! She shouldn't have been so liberal with that spell! Then, try as she might to stand up, she couldn't, as she was thrown about in the carriage! Tumbling about terrified, she cried, “Asterix, help!!!”

X X X X X X X X

“Asterix, help!!!”

Seeing the carriage charge ahead, Asterix worried and shouted, “Asha!?” He had to do something, and fast! Racing as fast as he could at the speed in his new shape, he realised to his dread it wouldn't be enough! He needed something bigger! No, maybe smaller? His mind was scrambling to think of something when-!

“Onwards! To brighter pastures!”

He heard Valentino's voice again and saw the carriage roll up a grassy hill!

Seeing he was behind this, Asterix cried, “Valentino get back here!”

However, the rebellious kid didn't listen and fled ahead, disappearing over the peak! Making it to the top of the hill himself in seconds, Asterix looked down and dreadfully said, “Oh no!”

For he saw ahead, the carriage was charging straight towards the end of the clearing, where he saw the trees arched out, leading towards a long cliff edge where ahead he could see the ocean! If they continued at that speed, it would mean-!

“I gotta stop them!” He leapt from the hill and charged down fast, desperately trying to think of a fast animal shape to aid him!

Then, as he charged ahead, he thought of something! He remembered one of the creatures that would chase after the animal he currently was, which could give him the edge he needed!

He was uncertain at first, whether he could do it or not, but-!

“WHOA!!!”

Hearing Asha's anxious shout, he couldn't hesitate! So quickly focusing, his power activated again, and-!

GLOW!!!!

His body transformed quickly, becoming sleek, tall, and long, with short golden fur. His legs were now more powerful as he raced upon his weightless paws, with his long whip-like tail curling out behind him!

Gritting his sharpened teeth, he'd become a graceful but powerful sprinting greyhound that charged straight after the carriage! Charging down, he shouted, “HANG ON YOU TWO I'M COMING!!!”

X X X X X X X X

Valentino enjoyed the speed of the wind blowing through his ears and the control he was wielding over the carriage! Smirking as they rumbled and rolled, they drove over another small hill and-!

“WHOA!!!”

Their ride took off and landed with a big thump! However instead of scaring him, instead, he hollered,

“YEE-HAW!!!”

His tail wagging, he declared, “Now this is what I call a ride!”

GLOW!!!!

Then, feeling this radiance shine behind them, he turned and saw that Asterix had transformed into a bigger shape! As he did, seeing his greyhound form bounding after them, he heard the determined star boy cry out, “HANG ON YOU TWO I'M COMING!!!”

Quiet at this, Valentino then uttered, “Tch! You think you're gonna stop my joy ride Twinkle Boy! Think again!” With that-!

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!!!!”

GLOW!!!!

Again, Asha's spell ignited, and the carriage charged on faster now! There was no way he would let the fun end this soon!

X X X X X X X X

Appalled, Asterix couldn't believe him! He knew then for sure, “He really is crazy!”

Bounding down with all the speed his new form could give him, Asterix realised he'd need to fly to the carriage now! He was nearing the bottom of the hill and felt the propulsion of speed aiding him. He focused again and-!

GLOW!!!!

He leapt forward and felt a new form become real! His long front paws became long and fanned out with mighty feathers, and his back legs shortened and became sharp-clawed talons that gripped tightly!

Then, with a wave of his neck, he grew a sharp, pointed beak, and with his eyes locked on the carriage, he beat his wings with a strong motion and-!

FWOOSH!!!

He was off to stop the oncoming disaster the chaotic kid was about to cause in the guise of an eagle!

X X X X X X X X

“Urgh!”

Annoyed, Asha hated this! Being tossed about like some toy! Trying desperately again to recover her balance was impossible, and with the new speed increase that had been made, there was just nothing she could do!

She had no idea where Valentino was even directing the carriage! Trying again to get up, she cried, “Just where are you taking us to! Valentino!?”

“To the world across the sea!” He declared!

Baffled, she cried out, “What!?”

“We're gonna fly out there to a brave new world!” Valentino declared! Then, with a raised proud hoof, he added, “We'll have new adventures! We'll-!”

“We're gonna crash and die!!!” She shouted angrily.

“Why would he!?” Valentino laughed, then he told her, peering through the window at her, “You enchanted this wondrous device to fly, so we-!”

“That faded ages ago!”

Baffled, he stilled and uttered, “Huh?”

“Why do think I brought the carriage back down to earth!?” She told him, infuriated, then added, “I'm still a beginner at Levitation! You honestly expect me to-!”

“VALENTINO!!!”

Then suddenly, a fast shape came flying straight towards the baffled kid, hearing the shout-!

“Whoa!”

He quickly moved aside and immediately-!

“Agh!”

“Ooph!”

A big feathery shape crashed through the window! As it did, in a chaotic mess, the feathered shape landed in Asha's arms! Amazed, she saw a golden glowing bird shape covered in luscious gold feathers!

Amazed seeing his glow, she recognised him and cried surprised, “Asterix!?”

Currently, still in his animal form, he blinked and, after an awkward quiet moment, said with embarrassment, “Ah! Ha, ha! Sorry for the crash landing!”

Hearing him say this, despite the chaos. Asha couldn't help but smile too briefly before-!

“Aww! Look at you two !”

It was then Valentino caught their attention again! As he did, and they spied him, the cheeky kid said smugly, “Being mushy wushy and-!”

GLOW!!!!

Stopping him in his tracks, Asterix quickly transformed again and-!

GRAB!

“Hey!”

Became a long-armed prime ape! He dragged Valentino into the carriage and told him, “That's enough out of you!”

Staring at him, Valentino demanded, “What're you supposed to be!”

“A gibbon!” Asterix answered angrily.

Asha had never heard of the creature, but as he held Valentino down. She could only hope things would calm down. When-!

“Asha you've got to get control of the carriage!” Asterix told her urgently.

Perplexed at first, she didn't know what to say when-!

“Hey!”

“Ah!”

She was nearly thrown off balance again as Valentino was sent flying out of Asterix's grip, hitting the back of the carriage and knocking him out! She didn't know what to do, when-!

CLUTCH!

Suddenly, she was stopped! Confused, she looked back and saw, to her amazement, that Asterix had caught her by her back! Holding onto another part of the carriage with his free arm, he told her, “Asha hurry!” With that, he pushed her forward and quickly-!

“Whoa!”

She quickly made it outside the carriage again, hanging on for dear life along the curve of the carriage window. She then saw to her distress that they would careen straight off the cliff edge!

She paled in horror, but quickly, her mind raced quickly, and she thought of a fast spell to halt their demise!

GLOW!!!

“Pumpkin cease please!!!!”

SHINE!!!!

Her power moved swiftly to stop the carriage and-!

“AAAAGGGGHHHH!!!!”

In terror, their ride was raised high and dangerously close to lunging over the edge, teetering against the pull of gravity - and then-!

THUMP!

The carriage fell back down to earth and then-!

“Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa! Whoa!”

It slid down backwards fast! Asha tried to turn back to see where it was going, when-!

WHOMP!

“Ah!”

The carriage crashed into something hard, causing Asha to fall back into it again! Shaking with her arms over her head, bracing for the worst, she stayed silent. Then, after a little while, she realised they'd become still. Cautiously lifting her protection, she asked, “Are we dead?”

“No! I don't think so!” Asterix answered, lying in another section of the carriage. Then he told her, “Let me check where we are!”

GLOW!!!

Asha felt his gold radiance grow as he transformed again. She stayed silent as she heard him move to the back of the carriage. Then, after a few moments, she felt him make it over to her, and quickly, she saw him collapse by her side. As he lay beside her, he said, “Yeah, we're alive! We made it; a big rock has stopped us moving!”

Quiet, she asked him, “Really?”

With a nod, he turned over and said, “Yeah!” Then, with a grin, he added, “I guess we won't be rocking and rolling anymore, huh?”

…

Silent at this awkward bad joke, Asha uttered, “Pffft!”

Asterix chuckled in response, and quickly, in a massive burst, they lay on their backs and-!

“Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha! Ha!!!!”

Laughed loudly! Asha felt elated that they'd made it! They survived that chaos despite the terror and near horror that ended them. She couldn't help but say, “Seriously! That was the most insane thing I've done in my life!”

“It's definitely a new one for me!” Asterix agreed, laughing with her.

Again, she released another chuckle, then sighed with relief, “I'm just so glad we made it!”

“Yeah, same!” Then she felt Asterix turn, and as she did, she heard him say, “Asha?”

“Hm?” Turning to look at him, she saw him looking at her warmly with his enchanting brown eyes.

Startled, seeing him look at her. She stayed silent, wondering what he wanted to say to her?

“Thank you!” He smiled.

“Huh?”

“I managed to finally become bigger animals! Also three in quick succession, I've never been able to do that before!” As he revealed this to her, he continued, “It's all thanks to you encouraging me, and Valentino too!”

As she heard him say this, she became bashful and told him, putting her hands up and trying to downplay her involvement, “Oh, come on! I didn't do that much! I mean, Valentino and I were just racing around the clearing. All I did was just give a bit of encouragement and-!”

“It wasn't just that!” Asterix interrupted, his smile still present.

Blinking, Asha stopped and asked him, “It wasn't?”

With a shake of his head, Asterix told her, “No.” Then, reaching over, he touched her cheek and said gently, “You believed in me.”

Freezing at his warm touch, her mind came to a complete standstill. All she could do was utter, “Huh?”

His hand was still on her, and he continued smiling warmly, “Nobody else has done that for me in forever. You've helped me feel something I never thought I could, and that's finally helped me gain this power.”

Amazed hearing this, Asha felt her heart race. Averting her eyes from his brown ones, she blushed and replied, “Oh, um that's good! I guess...” Then, looking back at him, his smile didn't waver as he gazed at her. She didn't know what she could say to him, but after a little while, she replied, “Well, you're welcome Asterix! I'm really happy that I could help you.”

He, in turn, nodded, looking pleased. Before she could move, she heard him say, “You're really pretty, Asha.”

“Huh!” Looking back at him immediately, she was startled to hear this.

Looking at her, Asterix continued, “When I look at you, I can't help but feel that! I feel such pleasant warm feelings when I look at you.”

Blinking after hearing this, Asha couldn't help but chuckle and say, “Look at you, honestly!”

“Huh?” Asterix appeared baffled.

Asha told him, flustered, “When did you become such a sweet talker! Honestly, you're going to give me the wrong idea!”

“What does that phrase mean, sweet talker?” Asterix asked her, puzzled.

Asha became still and stared at him silently. She laughed, trying to disperse the awkward atmosphere: “Um! Well, it means someone who's acting in a flattering, sweet way to get something they want out of you!”

Baffled, Asterix asked, “Get something?”

“Yeah, um! You know, they're just acting nice to be nice! When they don't really mean it, and are just trying to persuade you to-!”

“I wouldn't do that!” Asterix cried, upset!

Silent, Asha could see her attempt at being light-hearted had backfired! So again, she tried saying, “Oh, um! Yeah, no I mean, you probably wouldn't Asterix! It's just-!”

GRAB!

Startling her, Asterix grabbed both her hands and seriously told her, “Asha! I meant what I said!” Surprised, she stayed silent and heard him continue, “You are truly pretty, I would never say anything just to appear pleasant! I never want to lie to you like that!”

Astounded, hearing the sincerity in his voice and feeling the firm yet gentle grip in his hands holding her own. Asha looked from them and then back at him; she could feel it. There were no false pleasantries there at all, none whatsoever.

However, with a soft smile, she realised he could never be deceptive, and this comforted her deep within. Then, moving her thumbs, she stroked his hands and said, “Okay, I believe you. Thanks, Asterix!” Then, as he became surprised, she continued, “And just so you know, I think you're really dashing yourself!”

He asked, “Really?”

“Yep!” She smiled, she asked, “How couldn't I? After everything that's happened so far, it's magical being with you.” Then she added with a chuckle, “No pun intended!”

Asterix was silent and then laughed, too. As he continued to hold her hands, he looked down momentarily, and before she could ask Asterix what he was thinking, he began to ask, “Asha, do you-?”

“You both lovely! You both very pretty!”

Distracted, they turned and saw Valentino swaying to and throw before he collapsed with dizzy eyes.

“Valentino!” Worried for him, Asha released his hands. Then, looking over her kid, she was silent as she made her checks. Then, after a little, she sighed, “Thank goodness!”

“Is he alright?” Asterix asked concerned.

“I think so!” Asha said, relieved, then sat beside him, putting him on the comfortable seat within the carriage, and continued, “But he's definitely tuckered out. I think he's had enough adventure for one day!”

Quiet, Asterix then chuckled and replied, “Makes sense!”

Asha nodded, then before she could say a word more-!

GLOW!

Asterix's diamond glowed brightly! Seeing it do this, she asked, “Asterix, is that-?”

“Your Grandfather!” Asterix replied, then putting his hands over his magical treasure, he told her, “Hang on, let me see!”

Worried in seconds, Asha wondered if something was wrong! Was her Grandpa hurting, or was he-?

“Hungry,” Asterix revealed.

“Huh?” Baffled, Asha then asked, “What?”

“Your Grandfather, he's hungry. He's muttering it in his sleep.” Asterix revealed.

“Oh, okay!” Feeling vast relief, Asha said with a hand to her chest, “I'm glad he's alright!”

Asterix nodded at her words, and Asha decided, “Right! We should get back!”

“Good idea!” Asterix agreed, then looking around the carriage, asked, “Do you want to have one last drive?”

Quiet at this suggestion, Asha didn't hesitate and replied, “Sure! Let's do it!”

Asterix smiled, and with that, he climbed through the window. Reaching his hand out to her, Asha took it and was gently guided out. Sitting in the driver's seat again, she said, “Alright, let's go!”

Nodding again, Asterix smiled and asked, “You're driving right?”

“Absolutely!” Asha decreed.

He laughed again, and as he did, Asha smiled and then-!

GLOW!!!

Her power lit up around her again, and as it did, she chanted,

“Let's go, go, go!

We're ready to go home, home, home!

Now, let's move on and drive!”

Then, quickly, the carriage glowed brightly with Asha's blue power, and using it, she guided it back towards the trees up the hill, which would eventually lead them back to the cottage!

As they travelled, Asterix asked her, “Are you trying to make your spells more song-like now?”

“Yeah! I think it could work better!” Asha revealed, and then as they continued moving, she said, “Though I'm not the best at it, I'll keep trying!”

“You'll be alright, Asha!” Asterix told her. Looking up at the sky that was starting to be dyed into the warm colours of sunset, he continued, “You'll find your own style of chanting eventually. Just keep experimenting, and you'll find what you're looking for.”

“Okay, I'll do that!” Asha agreed, then looked at him and said, “Asterix?” As he turned to her, she said, “You should do the same.”

“Huh?”

“Just experiment when you can, in trying new animal forms!” Asha told him, then looking ahead as they started to climb the hill, she continued, “And if you find that you're struggling at any point, I'll help you in whatever way I can, okay?”

He was silent momentarily. As he became this way, she looked over at him again. She saw him look astounded, but as her eyes settled on him, he smiled again and replied, “Alright, thanks Asha! I really appreciate your support!”

“Same!” Asha smiled, and with that, they chatted together, enjoying the warm setting rays of the sun and the beauty of the changing majestic colours of the sky as they continued the journey home, where Asha's Grandfather would be waiting for her...

#asha #starboy #starboy x asha #wish 2023 #wish asha #wish rewrite

0 notes