Ep. 13 To be a Guardian

December 13th, 2023 

   In the Meeting Room, in the castle, the House argued the debate of taking land from the Hunters. Queen Sun sat quietly, losing hope Nature would show up. How could she know if Nature even got her letter? What if she was angry? Queen Sun shook her head, thinking she was rather foolish for excepting Nature. 

   All in all, she did not want to see the Hunters be run out of their land. For centuries, she was not the type of queen to take what land was not hers. Of course, it was a different case with the Guardians, but they did not count. 

   The clock read two twenty o' clock. 

   Nervously, all she could hear was tick, tick, tick from the clock. The last she wanted was war. She was confident the Hunters would not stand a chance against the army of Humans. 

   Just when one politician was getting ready to point fingers, the doors opened abruptly and Nature raced in. She caught her breath and held a finger up, but it fell back down. They all turned towards her, surprised the dead had rose. 

   "Sorry- I'm- I'm late," she said between breaths. 

   "No, it's fine. You didn't miss much," Queen Sun said in a slight shock. Had the letter worked after all? 

   Nature walked over to the meeting table, sat in her usual spot, and folded her hands. She should have been uncomfortable, but, lucky for her, this was not her first meeting. In her opinion, the meetings were boring but she managed. The House and Royal Family fixed their postures. They were never afraid to have Nature around before but now, they felt the need to behave. 

   Several minutes passed, yet they all sat in silence. 

   "Are you going to talk or what?" Nature suddenly asked, wanting to hear who the idiot was that wanted to destroy her home. 

   "Oh, yes," Queen Sun blushed. She cleared her throat. "Rob?" 

   "The mayor wants to expand Hillville, but there will not be enough room inside the borders. So, we're turning towards the Hunters' Territory," a politician, Rob, said. 

   "What about the homes of the wildlife? You'll be chopping homes down," a female politician, Linsey, argued. 

   "We can get rid of a few trees, Linsey! So, what if a few birds lose their nests?" 

   "It's a big deal! A bunch of the Communicators will be rebelling against the idea!" Another male politician, Richard, commented. 

   "We don't have other choices outside the walls," Rob shook his head. 

   "Then, expand the walls!" A journalist, Rebecca, suggested. 

   "Where is Equality going to get the money for that? It took sixty years to build that wall! Not to mention the forest outside the walls are dangerous," Mike, a politician, pointed out. 

   "We'll have to expand someday anyway though. What do you think, my queen?" 

   "I suppose expanding outward isn't too farfetched. This new idea won't be put into action right away," Queen Sun tolerated. 

   "With all due respects, your highness, what do we even need the Hunters for? They just exist," Rob said.

   "They were here first." 

   "So?" 

   "Ever hear of the Food Chain?" Nature mumbled. 

   "What did you say?" 

   "How would you like it if I walked up to your home and torched it?" She replied to him. 

   "You wouldn't." 

   "Don't be so sure." 

   "Why does it matter? They're practically animals!" 

   "They are people just like you and me! You criticizing the way they were born makes you no better than the Villains! White and black Humans learned to get along. Why should the case with the Hunters be any different? Those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it. Is this the image for our neighbors and future generations you want to create? A lack of equality produces destruction." 

   "Sometimes, sacrifices are necessary!" 

   "Is it really necessary when there's unclaimed land next to the walls and behind the Icelands? Knock down the walls if we must. It's not worth other people's lives! Equality means being equal in rights, status, and opportunities. This land has existed for a thousand years, yet we've made no real progress because of a division of class and egoism. We would be stronger together, not apart. If you make a civil war, I pity how foolish you are!" 

   Then, she sat back, waiting for a reaction. The dumbfounded man gawked at her. The House had no debating arguments to move the conversation forward. The reporter sat still, eager to know what to write next. 

   "Does anyone have anything to add?" Queen Sun shifted in her chair. They shook their heads 'no'. "Well, then, I have decided the walls will come down, and we will find other ways to expand our kingdom for the better. You are dismissed." 

   Folding their papers and getting up to leave, the House trembled. No one was sure how to act around Nature. Barely anything had changed about her, yet they felt they were just meeting her for the first time. Nature rose from her seat, but Queen Sun put a hand on her shoulder. 

   "Wait," she said. She waited until the room was empty of people to continue. "First of all, thank you for showing up." 

   "You're welcome." 

   "Second, you did really well. I think the Hunters may be fine now." 

   "Just doing my part." 

   "Nature, are you sure you don't want to come back? I haven't hired anyone new yet." 

   Nature sighed, "I'm not sure what my future holds, your majesty. I'm not ready for the responsibility of a Guardian yet. Some part of me wants to be, but I don't know. I have to find who I am first before I lose myself forever." 

   "I see... You're still Nature, just with a different title." 

December 14th, 2023

   Flipping a page in "Equality's Origins", Nature leaned her back against her locker. Students were walking at an unsteady pace as they passed her. She paid no attention to them, for she was more interested in reading about the land she would have to protect. Freedom spotted her from across the hallway and tried to act casual. 

   "Hey, how was cleaning the gym?" He asked. 

   "Oh, hi. Not bad I guess," Nature looked up from her book. "But that male Guardian decided to talk to me." 

   "Really? About what?" Freedom tilted his head with a small glimmer of jealousy in them. 

   "What is that look for?" She grinned. 

   "He better not be up to something." 

   "Ugh, Freedom, no. I think he hates my guts." 

   "What makes you think that?" 

   "Well, he said Phoebe is the superior Guardian. Then, he said I'm not even fully Guardian. He apparently is amused by annoying me too." 

   "Oh..." 

   "The strangest part is he basically talked like Phoebe and Hannah created me. It can't be true though, can it?" 

   "I'm sure it's not." 

   "And he said they are depending on my success. Also, there would never be anything like me ever exist again. What does it mean? Why am I so important?" 

   "You're asking the wrong person." 

   "I know. I'm sorry, but my mind is just everywhere right now." 

   "It's okay. Hey, I heard from the other guards you went to yesterday's meeting, and the House didn't look too happy. What happened?" 

   "They wanted to use the Hunters' Territory to expand Hillville. I set Rob in his place." 

   "Oh, I was just wondering because the Press is going crazy about it. Have you read it?" 

   "I'm not sure I want to," she shook her head. "Honestly, I didn't want to go, but I am glad I did. Hopefully it fixed the situation." 

   "Uh, I think you better read the paper," he replied uneasily. 

   "Why? Is it bad?" 

   "They're calling you a stickler." 

   "Which definition?" 

   "Both." 

   For once, Nature's face turned red with anger and embarrassment. She tried to do a good deed. Why did it punch her in the stomach? 

   "Those ungrateful...!" She trailed off but bit her tongue. "I was only trying to help!" She slammed her book closed, opened her locker, and shoved the book onto the top shelf. "Every time I try to do something good, it backfires! What am I doing wrong? Is it me?" 

   Freedom looked at her sympathetically, wondering how she could think it was her fault. He looked at the clock. '2:25'. Just as Nature shut her locker, he took her hand and turned her toward him. 

   "Come on," he nodded his head toward the exit. 

   "Why?" 

   "Just come on." 

   Hesitantly, Nature followed him, curious onto what her boyfriend- a word she was adapting to- was being suspicious about. The hour was for clubs, so no one would care if they went outside. Freedom was guiding her into the forest though, which they were not allowed to do. Or, were they? Could Nature alter the rule? 

   Snow covered the branches on the sleeping trees. There was no wild life or plants except for the trees. Everything was trees and snow. But of course, even in bitter cold, life finds a way to continue. Freedom stopped at a stream. Part of it was frozen over, and the other half had water flowing freely. The snow that crunched under their feet stopped when they anchored at the lonely stream. 

   Ozzy popped out of Nature's hair to say hello. Freedom smiled and petted the lizard. Realizing how cold it was, Ozzy retreated back into Nature's warm, cozy hair. 

   "What are we doing out here?" Nature asked, glancing around. 

   "I thought you could use some time away from people and you needed fresh air." 

   "I'm a little cold actually," Nature hugged herself, despite wearing a winter coat, scarf, and hat. Freedom kissed her on the lips, making her senses tingle at the surprise. She blushed, for she was also still getting use to kissing too. 

   "Did that help?" Freedom flushed. 

   "Such a flirt," she covered her mouth. He chuckled. "Are you cold too?" 

   "What-?" But before he could finish, Nature stood on her tip toes to kiss him back. Then, she stuck her tongue out at him. "Hey!" They laughed for a moment. 

   "Okay, I'm not cold anymore." 

   "You sure?" 

   "Stop!" She playfully shoved him. 

   "Okay, okay!" 

   For several peaceful minutes, they stood at the stream, admiring the quiet. The only movement came from a sliver of wind pushing the branches of trees. However, when five minutes passed, a Phoenix flew onto a tree branch. Nature noticed it was peering down at them.

   "A Phoenix!" She pointed out. 

   "Aren't you allergic to them?"

   "Their feathers, yes!" 

   The Phoenix flew down to them, and Nature jumped into Freedom's arms. The bird landed on the ground and formed into a Human shape. When it fully morphed, the two realized it was Guardian Jason. 

   "Look at you two love birds!" He exclaimed. 

   "You creep!" Nature smacked him on the face. He rubbed it and scolded at her. 

   "I suggest you don't upset me. I will set you on fire. That's not a threat. It's a promise." 

   "Whatever!" Nature stepped back to Freedom. 

   "I should have gotten a picture." 

   "Don't you have something more important to do?" She rolled her eyes. 

   "Nope. They kicked me out- again." 

   "Is it like a regular Guardian thing to stalk people?" Freedom questioned. 

   "No, we just like to watch you guys. It's fun! Speaking of jobs, don't you have something better to do? Both of you?" 

   "Well... not really." 

   "Would you just scram?" Nature scowled. 

   "Gee, Pheebs wasn't kidding! You are feisty!" Guardian Jason concluded. "I like Freedom more than you." 

   "Uh, why?" Freedom asked, a tad uncomfortable with the "compliment". 

   "Nature is annoying." 

   "I DID NOTHING TO YOU!" 

   "I know, but your whole existence bothers me! At this rate, you'll never be a great Guardian! We might have to throw you away like the rest of them!" 

   "Them-?" Freedom began to say. 

   "I can be a great Guardian! I WILL be a great Guardian! In fact, I'll be better than your precious aunt!" Nature challenged him. 

   "I see," he seemed in thought. "Good luck with that. Pheebs and Hannah have trillions of years of experience! You'll never catch up to them!" 

   "Yes, I will! You'll see! I'll be the best Guardian your "kind" has ever seen!" 

   The male Guardian burst out laughing at Nature, making her flustered. "You think- you think- you'll be the greatest thing? Yeah right! We'll see about that!" 

   "You said yesterday-!" 

   "Those are their expectations! Just because it's what they believe doesn't mean it's set in stone. You're a failure! You don't know the first thing about being a Guardian. There are rules, categories, and orders to take! You shouldn't even try! Besides, they don't have the time to educate you on everything." 

   "I don't need their help or yours! I'll find my own way! You don't need to tell me who I am because I know who I am!" 

   "You have fun with that," he shook his head. Then, he backed away, morphed into a Phoenix, and flew away. They watched him go in silence. Luckily, he left no feathers behind, so Nature would be fine and dandy. 

   "Do you actually know who you are?" 

   "No," she sighed. "He's right, but I'm not going to stand down yet. I don't think I have a choice anyway." 

   "Oi, so he really does hate you after all. I wonder why..." 

   Not wanting to encounter the Guardian again, they returned back to the school. Freedom went to the Sports club but they didn't look happy to see him. Except Dasher. She waved and questioned where he was and what he was doing with a grin, for she knew it had to do with Nature. He told her to be quiet though, which she responded with guffaw. 

   On the other hand, Nature signed out. Since she had no intention on greeting her club, she could leave early. Her mind was leading her towards Settle Sun. A great determination ached her to go to Queen Sun. Perhaps she knew a thing or two what the Guardians' daily life was like. 

   She took the train, and arrived at the castle within an hour. The guards were, again, shocked to see her. They let her in, not like they had a choice. Queen Sun was at her throne, rubbing her temples, looking at three letters in her hands. Five stacks of work were piled around the throne. Nature was flabbergasted. 

   "Your highness?" Nature got her attention, still keeping her manners and bowing. 

   Looking up tiredly, Queen Sun blinked. "Nature? You're back? Did you change your mind?" Sudden energy of excitement fueled through her veins. 

   "Here I am," she laughed nervously. "I haven't decided yet. Do you need help though? You look exhausted." 

   "Oh, no. It's alright," the queen waved her hand, assuring her it was fine. 

   Nature wasn't about to take 'no' for an answer though. She approached her majesty and picked up an envelope. She opened it and read it. "This one is the Mayor of Hillville asking the plan for expanding. I'll write it out for you a little later." 

   Picking up another, she saw it was from Guardian Hannah. Without hesitance, she opened and read it. She had no idea the Guardians sent letters too. How did they get there? "Hannah is asking about... the Ginx kingdom. The Ginx kingdom is coming?" 

   "For Winter Solstice, yeah. We are going to discuss trading routes." 

   "Oh... I want in!" 

   "You do?" Queen Sun gasped. Several other guards listened curiously, wondering what the change of mind was. 

   "Yes! When? Where?" 

   "One thing at a time, Nature! Again, Winter Solstice in Town Hall." 

   "Okay! What should I write?" 

   "I'll write that one." 

   It clicked in Nature mind then why she never saw letters from the Guardians before. Queen Sun made sure all of them came to her. "I can handle it." 

   "That's okay, Nature, but I've handled them for centuries. No need." 

   Huffing, Nature accepted she was not going to win a century deal, but she would still help her queen. For twenty minutes, they worked together. Nature worked on the floor, but it didn't bother her. In fact, it reminded her of her earliest days as a scribe. Glancing every now and again, Queen Sun wondered why Nature was acting differently- almost like a new person. They finished another twenty minutes later. 

   "Wow, this is the earliest I've finished in two months...," Queen Sun said, astonished. "Why did you help me though? Are you sure you didn't change your mind?" 

   "A certain Guardian said I could never be as good as doofus and dumb dumb, so I want to prove him wrong!" Nature said confidently. Although, it did feel good to sign a bundle of papers again.

   "Oh, I thought maybe... never mind. Wait! So, you're accepting your position as a Guardian?" 

   She thought for a moment. "Yeah, I guess so." 

   "Really?" 

   "Yes." 

   "I want to hear you say it." 

   "Say what?" 

   "Say it. Prove your commitment. Say you're a Guardian." 

   "I'm a Guardian?" 

   "Don't sound so sure," Queen Sun said sarcastically, crossing her arms. 

   "I'm a Guardian." 

   "I can't hear you." 

   "I'm a Guardian!" 

   "Sorry, I appear to be going deaf. What did you say?" 

   "I am a Guardian!" 

   "Bit louder." 

   "I'm a Guardian, Queen Sun! What else do you want from me?" Nature yelled, annoyed her majesty was teasing her. 

   "That's more like it," she smiled. 

   "Oh, I see what you did! Very funny, your highness!" Nature laughed; glad Queen Sun's humor had stayed even past long piles of work. She joined her laughter, thinking it was funny too. 

   Yes, nothing changed about Nature mentally. She was still determined and stubborn and wore her heart on her sleeve. 

   "Your majesty?" 

   "Yes?" 

   "What do the Guardians even do around here? I need to know." 

   "They do many things. Check up on the military services, approve architectural projects, keep track of your work, keep track of my work, plan meetings with other kingdoms by me, and many other things. They do a lot of behind-the-scenes work." 

   "What can I do?" 

   "Honestly, I don't know. They chose their jobs. I let them do what they want as long as it's not harming anyone. So, I guess it's up to you." 

   "That's not what I was hoping for," Nature sighed. 

   "Sorry." 

   "You don't have to apologize, your majesty. It's not your fault." 

   Just then, the doors snapped open, hitting two guards on each side and the walls. Guardians Phoebe and Hannah strode in but stop after the doors closed. They looked like looks could kill. It sent a chill up Nature's spine. 

   Turning around, Hannah said, "Oops! You guys alright?" They gave a thumbs up. 

   "Queeny, have you seen a boy about yay tall?" Guardian Phoebe rose her hand up to about four feet and a half of an inch. "He has blond hair and blue eyes. Oh, and freckles! Lots of freckles! I have a massive bone to pick with him!" 

   "No, I haven't." 

   "Fiddle sticks! Well, he couldn't have just vanished!" 

   "Yes, he could!" Guardian Hannah argued. "Maybe he finally left or died! That would be a blessing!" 

   "I saw him," Nature said, offended they acted like she wasn't there. 

   "We know you saw him!" Guardian Phoebe shook her head. "JASON TYLER JENNINGS!" 

   The doors slammed open again, repeating the process. The poor guards looked at each other when the doors closed. They had broken teeth! 

   "I hear you, you're mad, and I am here for the tea!" Guardian Jason happily hopped around. 

   There was no empathy in Guardian Phoebe's eyes as she stomped over to him, ready to turn him inside out. The approach let him know he was in hot water. Deep hot water. 

   "How dare you insult Nature by telling her such harsh words? How dare you let out valuable information? How dare you tell her she won't be good for anything? I should tear you limb from limb right here for the whole Universe to see! I should make you cry out for mercy before even considering forgiving what you've done!" She stormed. "What do you have to say for yourself?"

   "Um, well, it was... the truth?" He started to sweat. His aunt gave him a grim and graving look. 

   She pulled him by his collar closer to her. "If I find out you say another dreadful word to her, I will have your head decapitated and sent back to where you're supposed to be! You are extremely lucky I'm bending the plan for you! Do NOT push my buttons! I could end you right here and now without any remorse! Is that clear?" 

   "Crystal..." 

   Forcefully, she grabbed the back of his neck and dragged him towards Nature. Then, she threw him down and crossed her arms, still glaring at him. He got up and looked at her in confusion. 

   "Apologize." 

   "What? No!" 

   "I am not going to tolerate you being disrespectful! You can either apologize or go home- and I mean home Home!" 

   He sighed but looked at Nature. "I'm sorry," he began. "I'm sorry you're a failure of a project-!" 

   "That's it!" She grabbed his ear and pulled him towards the doors. "I don't want to see your face for the rest of the night! We'll discuss this in the morning! Go before I change my mind!" 

   "Okay, geez," he threw his hands up. Quietly, he left them through the doors. 

   Guardian Phoebe turned towards the other three. Her annoyed face turned into a smile. "So sorry about that, Queeny. My nephew is out of line." 

   "Uh, it's fine," she replied. "I don't really need the apology." 

   "What is his problem? I've never done anything to him! I barely even know him!" Nature whined. 

   "He's jealous," Guardian Hannah answered. "He's jealous Phoebe is more focused on you." 

   "He is not jealous," her partner defended the boy. "He just has no faith in your protentional. Eventually, he will eat his words." 

   "Do you two need anything else?" Queen Sun asked. 

   "Actually, yes," Guardian Phoebe looked towards her partner. 

   "Hm? Oh. Oh!" Her eyes lit up. "Nature, we want to show you something! Come on!" 

   "I don't think-," but she was already being pushed along by Guardian Hannah. "Fine," she groaned. 

   Pushed all the way back down to Hillville and to the forests, Nature said nothing. The people they passed were confused but kept to themselves. Into the forest, Nature realized where they were heading. It felt like a decade ago, however, she remembered seeing other people there. A door was in the plateau and the Guardians disappeared. 

   Surly enough, she was correct. She attempted to act like she had never been there before. Strangely, there was no snow around. Guardian Jason was outside, leaning against the plateau. He looked angry as he threw up a football and caught it. Guardian Phoebe told her partner to wait with Nature behind the tree.

   "Jason, what are you up to?" She asked casually. 

   "Are you still angry?" He frowned. 

   "You know I can't stay mad at you, but stop harassing Nature." 

   "But she's terrible." 

   "And so were you." 

   "Hey!" 

   "Well, it's true, Jason child. You use to set everything on fire." 

   He threw the football at her, but she caught it. "Paranoid?" 

   "What makes you say that?" 

   "Fast reflexes." 

   "No, I saw it coming. Jason, seriously though. Nature is going to take time. You know that, so let's stop this arguing and do what we're here for. Okay?" 

   "Yeah, I guess..." 

   "Hey." 

   "What?" He looked up at her. 

   "FOOTBALL, YEAH!" She exclaimed, throwing the football onto the grass. It bounced off the ground and flung at him. He caught it and laughed. She smiled at him widely. 

   "Okay, you win. Nature it is." 

   "Good boy! Can you go watch Princess Guardians? Oh, and do me a favor. Pour this on her." With her hands, she made a bucket filled with kinetic sand. She handed it to him. 

   "You're bad." 

   "Make sure she yells. It's funnier if she knows it was you." 

   "Sounds like you've done it before." 

   "Maybe," she grinned. "Now, go!" 

   While he ran off into the forest with the sand, she rubbed her hands together with a malicious grin. Nature shook her head, remembering why she hated the two- especially their games. Guardian Hannah drug Nature out onto the grass. It was fresh.

   "Why is there grass here?" She asked. 

   "I made it, duh," Guardian Hannah replied. 

   Nature sighed, "Why am I here, and why are you targeting Princess Guardians?" 

   "Awe, you sound like you care!" She reacted, knowing perfectly well she did not. 

   "It's a foreshadowing gift," Guardian Phoebe answered. She looked up towards the sky. "Hey, stop using 'Guardian' for me and Hannah! Nature is a Guardian now. She's on our field." 

   Oh, sorry about that. Readers, know Phoebe and Hannah are still Guardians. Since Nature is a Guardian, they will not be needing their position except for interactions between other non-Guardians.

   "That's better. Nature doesn't even refer to us as Guardian Phoebe and Hannah now anyway."

   "Phoebe, who are you talking to?" Hannah asked. 

   "Nobody," she bit her right index finger. "Nobody. Come on, let's go inside." 

   "Inside?" Nature hesitated, not even daring to question why Phoebe was talking to herself.

   "Yeah, inside." 

   After skipping to the plateau wall, she put her hand on a certain area, causing a door to slide open again. Hannah and Nature joined Phoebe in front of the opening. Nature glanced inside. Clearly, there was a room but it was pitch black. She knew it was a room because the crack of light illuminated depth onto the floor. She was drug in. 

   Phoebe flipped a switch as the door closed on its own. The room admitted the light so everything could be seen. The walls were made of a sandy yellow, most likely wooden. The carpet covering the floor was a white with speckles of light pink and grey.

   In the left, back corner of the room, there was a dark oak table with a 3D map of Equality on it. In the left, front corner, a huge bookshelf containing files and books stood. It was a light grey. 

   To the right, back corner, was a desk and chair. The desk was organized, but the trash bin next to it had piles of crumbled up paper in it. It seemed whoever was using it last had been frustrated. The right, front corner had a table with six chairs. Nature thought the detail was odd, considering were only, technically, four Guardians. 

   In the middle, a control panel with a huge screen was set against the wall. There were two chairs tucked close to it. 

   Surprisingly, it was far less weird than Nature thought the room would be like. Though, the screen and panel confused her. Even the map was somewhat expected. Why wouldn't they have a map? The real question was, what did they use the map for? For her expectations, the room was suspiciously innocent. Therefore, she reminded herself how tricky they could be. For all she knew, the room could be an allusion. 

   "Welcome to our home!" Hannah exclaimed. 

   "Home? You live here? You're here all the time?" 

   "Heavens, no! Okay, it isn't home Home, but it's here we stay in Equality." 

   "You're not from Equality?" 

   "Pft, no! Of course, we aren't!" 

   "Why are you here then? What does it have to do with me?" 

   "So many questions," Phoebe giggled. "If I remember correctly, a few weeks ago, you wanted nothing to do with us. Now, you want everything to do with us." 

   "Not everything," Nature rolled her eyes. 

   "Oo, we got a gift for you!" Hannah hopped over to the bookshelf. Carefully, she pulled out a carefully rolled up scroll. She skipped back to Nature and handed it to her. "You're going to need this if you're going to know how to expand Equality." 

   "How did you-?" 

   Quickly, Hannah put her right pointer finger over Nature's mouth. "Shhh, don't worry about it. Oh, and don't open that until you're outta here. Also, store it in your super-secret-book-journal-thing." 

   "Hannah, I told you before, she doesn't have it. Princess Guardians has it," Phoebe facepalmed over by the desk. 

   "Ugh, right. She has it." 

   "You two don't like her?" Nature raised an eyebrow. 

   "She's annoying! So, pouring sand on her makes her shut up for a little while." 

   "Isn't that a little... extreme?" 

   "Says the Guardian that puts spiders in her bed for fun," Phoebe shook her head. "Hm, Hannah, give her The Book." 

   "The Book?" 

   "Yes, The Book." 

   "What's The Book?" Nature questioned. 

   Pulling out a dark red book with the title 'THE BOOK OF LACUNA' in gold, Hannah said, "Only the most Guardian book of all Guardian books. It's all the rules and requirements on how to be and act like a Guardian. I didn't know we were moving along so quickly. Phoebe, are you sure we shouldn't wait for Princess Guardians and Freedom?" 

   "Give her The Book!" 

   "Okay, if you say so. Here ya go." 

   Consumed in curiosity, she took it from the blond Guardian. It looked old and dusty, like ancient old. It was five inches thick too. She opened it up and looked at the cursive text. It seemed there were many rules to follow which made no sense. Nature thought the Guardians had no rules to follow. 

   "When do I start learning?" She asked. 

   "Depends. Are you ready?" Phoebe approached her. 

   "Ready for what?" She took a step back. 

   "To be a Guardian." 

   "... Yes." 

   "Then, come back here at seven thirty tomorrow morning." 

   "Like, come in?" 

   "Yeah." 

December 15th, 2023

   Just as she was told, Nature returned at exactly the time the Guardians gave her. Oddly enough, they were disappointed claiming, "If you are on time, you are late. If you are early, you are on time." It frustrated her but she held her breath. 

   The Guardians had huge plans for the day, ordering Nature to clear her schedule. There wouldn't be a single moment of a dull time or a break- that was a promise. They planned to work her until she could not stand- another promise. Again, Nature bit her tongue.

   First things first: rules. If you were to suddenly become part of an important business that deals with problem solving, building, and people, you'd think your guidance would expose you to the work, right? Wrong. The Guardians did not play by the Equalian Law. They had their own form of "first days". Therefore, they brought her deep into a forest. 

   Mother Nature was an essential part of understanding the Guardian itself, or, as some of their kind liked to call it, the Guardian within. It was one of the most important key parts of learning because it was how they started. Even Nature could understand all living things start out as star dust. Then, they become atoms. Next, with the right ingredients, cells. Cells equaled living organisms. 

   As Phoebe and Hannah plotted out the day secretively, Nature sat down on a big, flat rock and viewed The Book of Lacuna. She flipped to the first page, finding a long list of rules. Flipping through to the end, she counted a total of four thousand three hundred twelve rules. What in the world did two- no three- no four Guardians need with over four thousand laws? Unless there are more Guardians. 

   If there are more Guardians, where are they? No reports of any other country, kingdom, state, empire, or group had Guardians. Guardians were unique to Equality only. Why were Phoebe and Hannah in Equality? Where did they come from? Where did Jason come from? Why was Nature different? ...Or was she? 

   The questions confused Nature more, wondering when she would get answers. She doubted the Guardians would just hand the answers to her like candy. She was well aware they loved to play games- not like Monopoly! Their games were more like Clue, Uno, or riddles. 

   "Nature," Hannah purred. "There's one thing we have to address before getting started. Guardians are separated into eleven different groups based on dominate soul color. The more experienced the Guardian, the bigger number of souls. The max is three." 

   "Soul color?" Nature questioned. 

   "Yes, there's red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple, pink, brown, black, white, and grey. White is power, brown is earth, blue is aqua, grey is unity, orange is military, purple is creation, pink is hearing, yellow is technology, black is sight, red is emotion, and green is religion." 

   "What are you guys?" 

   "I'm white, brown, and black, and Phoebe is white, black, and purple. Lucky for you, you're a grey." 

   "... Why is white... power?" 

   "We're elite. We know what we're doing! Oh, and Jason is an orange. So, next, those souls have titles. For example, my very first soul was white Favor. I'm the Guardian of Favor. My second is the soul of brown Life, and my third is the soul of black Lies." 

   'Makes sense,' Nature thought. 

   "Phoebe's first was the soul of white Art. The second was the soul of black Death, and her third is the soul of purple Midnight. Jason's first is the soul of orange Fire, but his second is the soul of red Sarcasm." 

   "And what am I?" 

   "You-," Hannah glanced over at Phoebe. Her partner gave her a thumbs up and she continued with, "You're the soul of grey Unity." 

   "But isn't that what the category is called?" Nature raised an eyebrow and crossed her arms.

   "Uh, well, you're the first grey and probably the only grey. Anyway, those eleven groups are called 'The Eleven Tables'. We are a Constitutional Monarchy, ruled by an annoying-." 

   "Charming!" Phoebe interrupted. 

   "- King," Hannah glared. "King Brayden, soul of white Chaos and soul of green Monotheism. Ever since Yugen Elysian started, we have followed 'The Book of Lacuna'."

   "Yugen Elysian? Never heard of it. Are you just making stuff up now?" 

   "No! Yugen Elysian is where we're from. It's not on this planet of course. It means, 'a profound awareness of the creative Universe that triggers a beautifully deep and emotional response to a perfect heaven.'" 

   "Really? What are you doing out of your "perfect" world then?" 

   "That's for us to know and for you to find out," Phoebe stated with zero expression. 

   "Alright, now that that's taken care of, make sure you study all the laws. There are a lot, but you can handle it. We need to take care of something though. You're breaking law number eleven: wear formal attire. We designed something for you though." 

   Unraveling a dress, Phoebe nodded towards her partner. It was a white dress with straps draped to the side. At the top middle, a purple diamond was imprinted with a black line that traveled south of the dress and split in two like a river. 

   "I can't wear that!" Nature refused. "It's freezing out here!" 

   "Your body will get used to it," Hannah waved it off, pushing Nature towards the dress. 

   "When and how did you even get my measurements?" 

   "We didn't need your measurements. We already knew them," Phoebe began. "We know more about you than you know about yourself."

   Freedom awoke to his alarm clock buzzing loudly. He groaned and wanted to throw it out his window, but instead, he rose and flicked it off. Then, he reset the clock so he would be awoken at the same time tomorrow. Rubbing his eyes to get the sand man out, he sat in utter silence. 

   He liked the quiet, yet something felt missing- out of place. He knew Jack was gone, probably never to be seen again, however, a hole still filled his chest. Of course, the agony of his father was there but he had recovered from the event. No part of him blamed Nature because he thought his brother deserved his punishment, yet still- yet still- it was his brother. 

   No matter how hard he tried, he could not understand what lead Jack to such a decision. Jack was strong, independent, caring, and determined. Then, a memory reminded him Jack was also abusive mentally and physically. So many nights Freedom had cried, begging for a light to show him why Jack seemed distant and disappointed in him. 

   Jack was gone though, right? 

   Why was Freedom mournful? 

   Was not he free?

   At then, a thought crossed his mind, one he had been dreading. 

   Karlos. 

   The night after the whole incident, Karlos was furious! He refused to believe Jack had been the one in control of the entire plan. There was the demon, right? Surly she had something to play into Jack's behavior. Karlos had landed on one answer. He was convinced Nature was to blame.

   To make matters worse, a few hours after Nature was titled as a Guardian, he hit the fan towards Freedom. Freedom had been regularly staying around the Hunters, but he did check on his family from time to time. The respect Karlos had for Nature instantly flew out the window, and he demanded Freedom would stop associating himself with her. 

   Freedom had not opened his mouth to no living soul about dating Nature. Not even his mother knew yet. He wanted to wait for Nature- to tell her the news. But as he had observed, Nature was in no mood to talk. He learned the decision was a mistake. He should have gone straight to her. Maybe even chased her no matter the mindset. 

   He put a smile on his face, a little blush too, because he knew Nature was his. Though he hid it, he was deeply in love with her, and he admitted to himself he was for a long time. When did it start? Oh, heavens, he had no clue. Maybe it was that first encounter years ago with a bump to the head. No matter when or how, the fact existed. 

   Perhaps he never gave it a second thought because he knew she was off limits. Not only that, but she was stubborn, hard as a rock, and clever as a fox. No one seemed good enough for Nature. No one was her type. No one knew what her type even was. Very secretive she was but he adored that part. 

   There was just something he liked about the mystery orbiting around her. When they became friends, he had no intentions on it becoming anything else. He was sure it would go no farther because there was no possible variable saying he would fit the bill. 

Little by little, piece by piece, he did become special to her though. 

   When she admitted it to him, he was thrown completely off guard. The kiss gave it away to him that he had done something terribly right with no goal in mind. He knew he had achieved what no one else would be able to. Then, he knew it. He knew he loved her and would do anything. 

   He wished it had not started in such conditions though. It wasn't the right time nor place. Still, there was no prewritten grantee they would make it out alive. It was then or never.

   Excited to see her, he took a shower, got dressed, combed his hair, and went down stairs to eat breakfast. Mrs. Wishes noticed he was in an energetic mood as she ate with him and Alaina. Karlos had left an hour earlier to go guard in Settle Sun. Alaina finished and was soon off for trading deals in Settle Sun. 

   Freedom insisted on taking care of his and his mother's plates. She watched him curiously, wondering what was on his mind. 

   It was Friday, seven forty-five in the morning, so she had to teach and Freedom needed to learn. Walking in the cold, Freedom's mood had not lost an inch of happiness. At last, she decided to confront this emotion. 

   "Are you feeling alright?" She stopped on the path and questioned him. 

   "Yeah, why?" He stopped and turn to face her. 

   "I don't know. You just seem... happy." 

   "Is that a bad thing?" 

   "Well, no, it isn't your usual behavior though. I don't recall anything exciting going on today." 

   Freedom thought carefully. He knew he could trust his mother with anything. Nature's parents knew so, shouldn't she? What about Jack? The long pause made Mrs. Wishes suspicious of her son.  

   "Well...," he began, not knowing how to put it. Mrs. Wishes was not a person for sugar coating a topic. "I... I'm dating... someone." 

   "Really?" She asked with a pleasant shock. "But you've never... oh. It's Nature, isn't it?" 

   "H-How did you know?" 

   "I'm your mother. It's my job. Besides, I've seen the way you two look at each other, and the students are getting fishy about you two. You should hear them! That's teenage gossip though. Why are you blushing about it? I knew it was coming at some point." 

   Freedom hadn't realized how burning his cheeks were. Never had he ever had to have a conversation like this with her. "I just thought because of Jack-!" 

   "I'd be mad?" She answered for him. "My child, Jack was old enough to make his own decisions. He messed up. I cannot control who you fall in love with, but I can applaud you. Karlos is going to go throw the roof, but it's not his decision to make nor your sister's. It's not just anyone who can get so close to Nature." 

   They continued to walk along the path, and the school emerged from the trees.

   "They're not going to find out," Freedom bit his bottom lip. 

   "Why not?" 

   "We're saving it for Sarang." 

   "Hm, I'm assuming that's another way to say to keep my mouth shut. You know, you're dating a Guardian, right?"

   "Of course, I know that! Why does it matter though?" 

   "Freedom, people are not going to accept it right away. Our reputation isn't the best right now. With a Guardian...," she sighed, "Just be careful." 

   "I know and I will. Oh, no," he stopped. 

   "What?" 

   He pointed towards, a little ways away, the two female, blond Guardians were arguing and Nature stood a foot separated from them, trying to pretend she wasn't there. Students kept their distance, watching silently. She saw Freedom and snuck away from the Guardians. He noticed a thick book in her hands. Mrs. Wishes said nothing. 

   "Thank goodness you're here! I need a desperate break from them! Look at this!" She said, flipping quickly through the pages of the book. "There are so many rules it isn't even funny!" 

   "What are they arguing about?" He calmly questioned.

   "I don't know! They just started arguing!" 

   "Don't they always do that?" 

   "Ugh, sadly..." 

   "What is that anyway?" 

   "This?" She held the book up. "A book of laws and requirements to acting like a Guardian. There are over four thousand! Can you believe that?" 

   "Wow! No, not really. You must be going crazy." 

   "You have no idea! Just wait until you hear the details." 

   "Now, wait a second. You don't need to tell me every little secret. I'm sure there are things you're not supposed to tell me." 

   "I didn't read a law for it yet," she waved it off. "There are more Guardians! We were right! They also said something about you and Princess Guardians but they're being very quiet about it. Also, you seem to know words I don't. What does yugen elysian mean?" 

   "I don't know." 

   "How about lacuna?" 

   "...Kinda, I guess. It means a blank space or missing piece." 

   "Why is this list of laws called, 'The Book of Lacuna' then? That's really strange." 

   "Yeah... strange," Freedom said uneasily, avoiding his and Princess Guardians' conversation about 'The Lacuna Keeper'. 

   "Guess what? They also have "titles" or something. Phoebe's is Art, Death, and Midnight, and Hannah's is Favor, Life, and Lies! I have one too. They said Unity!" 

   "Unity?" Freedom commented, thinking about the magic ingredients Jack needed. "Also, why are you wearing a dress? It's sixteen degrees out here." 

   "Nature, get back over here!" Hannah called. "There is much to do!" 

   "No thanks! I'm done were you two!" 

   "Awe, that's too bad. We were going to go to Settle Sun and talk with Queeny about the Winter Solstice with the Jinx representatives, but if you insist-," Phoebe began, knowing how to keep Nature interested. 

   "No, wait! Hang on! I'm coming!" Nature scrambled through the snow back to them. The Guardians shared a look of victory before continuing on the path towards Settle Sun. 

   "Yikes," Freedom said under his breath. "I'll be surprised if they make it through the day successfully with Nature." 

   "Gee, no need to have any faith," Mrs. Wishes replied. 

   "Well, she hates them. Although I wonder how they even ended up getting her to tag along with them." 

   The Guardians were used to easier ways of traveling, but Nature didn't know it yet. So, they walked and rode the train with Nature. After the long, awkward, ride, they arrived in Settle Sun. Passing people stared at Nature following the Guardians around like a duckling. 

   As for Nature, she was busy studying them. She noticed Hannah walked like any other normal person, swinging her arms back and forth and legs moving left, then, right. She admitted there was a prideful way with it though- like a celebrity. Phoebe walked with her fingers intertwined to her stomach. It was expressively formal. Nature guessed being "elite" in their society was a huge deal, so they knew how to act, talk, and dress like a Guardian. Therefore, she tried to mimic theirs to see which fit her.

   In the end, she settled on something similar to Phoebe's. Through watching the formal Guardian though, she concluded Phoebe was an introvert but not completely bashful. 

   On top of the way they walked, they kept their shoulders back, chins up, breathed gently, stepped lightly, smiled, and waved to everyone- especially Hannah. Compared to what she knew, the Guardians seemed like friendly people. She knew they put up massive acts but the book proved it. Certain people they were different around. For example, Queen Sun, the guards at times, and herself. 

   The "first time" she meant them, in front of people, was the first year she started her job with scribing. After then, they checked in quite a bit and it was random too. It could have been while she was working, at home, at school, or even nowhere in particular. They were on her tail. She never knew why though.

   Before then, she still hated them. There were things she would have much rathered forgot, but the Guardians were unforgettable. It was a memory that would haunt her forever. 

   The Guardians were well aware of Nature's mistrust towards them. The goal of the day would be to gain that trust. Even if it were just a pinch of trust, they would take it because they knew Nature was not going to go easy on them. They could not change the past, but they could change the future. 

   Walking into the castle, the guards straightened themselves. Nature attempted to copy the fellow Guardians but the movement was unnatural to her. Being a Guardian would take a while to get used to. Lightly this time, they opened the doors so none of the guards would receive a blow. 

   "Good morning, Queen Sun!" Hannah waved with such joy in her voice. 

   There were twenty Jinx representatives standing close to Queen Sun. They wore green cloaks with the hoods over their heads, casting a shadow over their eyes. Both female and male wore black and white suits. Except the females' cloaks had a green pin connecting the hood to the rest of the cloak. 

   Nature followed the Guardians nervously. She had seen over kingdoms visit Equality before, but these were the Jinx people. They were newer than most kingdoms, yet they were expanding rapidly. Something told her to not trust them. They kept to themselves- a mystery. Why would they want to attend Winter Solstice? Were they planning a sneak attack? 

   "Ah, there you are. I was wondering what was taking so long," Queen Sun smiled in return. 

   "Minor issue," Hannah pinched her right thumb and pointer finger together. 

   "I was just telling Mallory about Nature." 

   "Oo, and I'm sure they've heard plenty about her already. Do you like her dress? Phoebe came up with it. It has a diamond and-." 

   Blocking them out, Nature observed the Jinxes. They also made their gaze at her, equally interested. One in particular caught her eye. He looked similarly to Freedom except the man's eyes were a lighter, cold hearted blue. She wasn't there to pick a fight, but she wasn't enjoying the looks of lust from him. Still, she stayed quiet. 

   "Shall we go to the meeting room then?" Queen Sun asked. 

   "Yes," Phoebe answered, glancing back, making sure Nature was still there. 

   The twenty-four people walked along to the meeting room and entered the dim atmosphere. Queen Sun offered any seat to them, saying to make themselves at home. 

   'Be careful, your majesty,' Nature thought. 'They're called the Jinx for a reason.' 

   Unfortunately, Nature got stuck between Phoebe, to her right, and Hannah, to her left. The gesture made her uneasy, thinking about life, death, and nature. 

   When she started to zone out of the Guardians cracking a few sly, dark jokes at the Jinx, a whisper saying, "Nature," snapped her back up. She looked around, hoping she was not going crazy. 

   No one had said her name. 

   Phoebe peaked a glance at her before retreating. 'Not the time. Leave her alone for now,' she thought as though she wasn't talking to herself. A glimmering, grey light escaped through the door. 'Ah, yes, just a soul. Run along. No one saw you... for now.' 

   "How are you liking being a Guardian, Nature?" Mallory asked. She had dusty blond hair and peacock blue eyes. "We've heard quite a bit over in Jinx and Holland about you. We suspect you will be meeting with us more?" 

   Before answering, Nature looked at her fellow Guardian peers. "Uh... great? It's great... Yeah, that's what it is... great." 

   Queen Sun shot a look at Phoebe and Hannah, knowing perfectly well that was a straight up lie. Now she was worried. 

   For the rest of the meeting, the Winter Solstice was discussed. It would be on December 22nd, and all Humans, Hunters, Guardians, and Jinx's most important figures would attend. Nature found it suspicious the Jinx chose that specific day when everyone in Equality would be in one place. It bugged her farther the Guardians overlooked the small detail. Even more, the Jinx's twenty representatives would be staying in the castle until December 23rd- the day of Sarang. 

   She did not like it. 

   Not one little bit. 

   When the meeting ended, the Jinxes were guided to their rooms by two guards and a servant. Phoebe and Hannah were still in the meeting room, talking about something secretive, farther annoying Nature. Meanwhile, her and Queen Sun went to the throne room. She stood near the throne, afraid to leave. Queen Sun saw Nature fidgeting, sweating, and glancing about as if she were expecting something bad to happen. 

   "Nature, are you alright?" She asked, not bothering to sit upon the throne yet. 

   "I don't think this is a good idea. I don't trust them," Nature flat out said. 

   "The Guardians?" 

   "No, the Jinx. They've been wanting more power, and we're not exactly a small kingdom and we have magic of all kinds."

   "Are you being paranoid again? The Jinxes are our allies. They're here to learn, observe, and spread word. Try to be on your best behavior."

   "Okay, first of all," Nature held a hand up. The guards listened in case they had to do a bit of restraining. "I'm not five! You said to help and I'm trying, but now you're saying I'm paranoid? Doesn't it seem at least a tad suspicious they chose Winter Solstice to you?" 

   "I told you already why." 

   "But they practically hide their identities with cloaks!" 

   "It's part of their culture. We have to respect that." 

   "I don't know. Something doesn't feel right about this!" 

   Queen Sun sighed, "I think Jack turned you inside out. Do you trust anyone anymore?"

   Nature stayed silent. If she had to say the absolute truth, the answer would be no. Well, maybe except her family, friends, and Freedom. Even then, there were limits. 

   "Are you still in there, Nature?" Queen Sun got her attention. 

   "...No. I guess there is no one to trust." 

   "Gee, you're bad at lying," Hannah said, coming out of the hallway with her partner. 

   "It's not her fault her eyes give it away," Phoebe shook her head. 

   "Yeah, I guess so." 

   "My eyes?" Nature twitched, not liking they really did know more about her than she did of herself. 

   "Yeah, they change based on your emotions. Blue is sad, red is angry or hatred, purple is anxious, yellow is annoyed, green is inspired or interested, pink is embarrassed, white is frustrated, grey is neutral, brown is bored, orange is happy, and black is lying."

   "I'm not lying!" 

   "Yes, you are."

   "You do so trust certain people! You trust Freedom." 

   "N-No I don't!" 

   "They've kissed like three or four times now, right?" Phoebe said to her partner. 

   "What? I don't know what they're talking about!" Nature waved her hands around frantically. 

   "Mehm, yes. Purple to pink to black," Hannah pointed out. "We're getting good at this." 

   "They're the ones lying!" Nature blushed as bright as a tomato at Queen Sun. 

   "Okay, yesterday before Jason interrupted you two-," Phoebe began. 

   "OH! WHAT'S THAT? I THINK I HEARD THERE'S A PROBLEM IN TOWN HALL! HA HA HA, LET'S GO!" Nature panicked and dashed out of the castle. 

   The Guardians looked at each other and shrugged. 

   "Are you two joking?" Queen Sun asked uneasily. 

   "No," Hannah simply said. "Why would we be joking? Come on, Pheebs. We better catch up before she splits a building in two or something." 

   "What about the Jinxes?" 

   "What about them?" Phoebe questioned. 

   "Nature thinks-!" 

   "We know what she thinks," Hannah crossed her arms. 

   "But what if she's right?" 

   "She is," Phoebe answered. 

   Queen Sun gave a look of astonishment. If it were true, why weren't they doing anything about it? 

   "Well, why didn't you just say that? Why didn't you do anything?"

   "You'll see at Winter Solstice," Hannah smiled innocently. "You don't need to do anything. It's all under control. Besides, you have guards." 

   Still bewildered, she shook her head, "So?" 

   "Nature's going to learn the hard way," Phoebe shrugged. 

   "I don't understand." 

   "You don't now, but you will when the time comes." 

   And with that, they whipped around and walked quickly to catch up to Nature. Queen Sun had more questions. They were mainly about questioning the way they were handling Nature. Nature had already made it clear she wasn't fond of them, so why would they make it worse? 

   "Excuse me, your highness," one guard along the way spoke up. "Are we to do anything about the Jinxes?" 

   Queen Sun sighed, "No, let them be. I just hope those Guardians know what they're doing." 

   "Get me away from them!" Nature pleaded to Freedom, who had just got out of school. Dasher, Nicole, Jewel, Foxy, and Butterfly were there too, standing at the entrance. 

   Nature had beat the Guardians down to Hillville by running. She had no intention on listening to them anyone. They humiliated her. Therefore, she was done. 

   "What do you want me to do? They're Guardians!" He reminded her. She hid behind him as they appeared near the school. 

   "I don't know! Anything!" 

   "I can't! You know that right? I'll get fired and jailed." 

   "Ugh, please! I'll do anything! Anything at all!" 

   "What even happened, dear?" Jewel asked. 

   "NATURRRRRE, WE'RE NOT DONE WITH YOU YET!" Hannah chanted across the school yard. Students moved away, giving them space.

   "Wow, couldn't make it any more obvious, could you?" Phoebe grinned behind them, where Nature was exposed. Nature yelled and Phoebe picked her up and slumped her up over her shoulder.

   "No! I don't want to! Go to hell!" Nature yelled, struggling to get out of the Guardian's grasp. 

   "Awe, but we have to teach you more stuff! Do you want to fight us or Jason? If you die, it'll be fine. You'll just respawn!" Hannah said like 'die' and 'respawn' meant nothing.

   "WHAT? No! No! No!" At last, Nature bit the Guardian. 

   "Ow!" She reacted, dropping Nature onto the snow. "What the heck?" 

   "Do you want me to handle her?" Jason said, sitting on a branch in an oak tree.

   "No! We got it!" 

   Nature got up and took off back towards her friends, Freedom, and Foxy. 

   "There's nowhere you can run we won't find you!" Hannah giggled. "You can't run from us forever!" 

   "Just let me fight her!" Jason whined. 

   "You'll set her on fire!" Phoebe refused. 

   "No, I won't! I'll go easy on her!" 

   "Over my dead body!" 

   "I thought Jason was the one dying," Hannah titled her head. They broke into a heated argument, so Freedom looked down at the chilly Guardian below him. 

   "I knew they wouldn't last a day with you," he said sympathetically. 

   "What happened?" Dasher asked. 

   "They know," Nature said in despair. 

   "Know what?" 

   Nature groaned and dragged Freedom away from the group. It clicked to them it was about the whole dating spiel and that they were not welcomed into the conversation. Behind the school, she stopped and Freedom stood still, confused. 

   "I can't take it anymore! They know everything about me! Even tiny details and things I don't know yet! They embarrassed me in front of Queen Sun and a bunch of guards! We were arguing about my eyes changing colors meaning anything and if I trusted anyone. They started talking about you, I neglected it, and they said we've kissed before! I freaked out and got out of there..." 

   "Oh... Oh, boy. I know what I'll be hearing in a few hours..." 

   "I'm so sorry, Freedom! I should've just said 'yes' and left it go!" She cried. 

   "Nature, it's fine. I'm not mad or anything. Actually, I'm worried about Karlos finding out... He'll grill me before I can even explain."

   "You're in trouble again because of me? Dang it! Can I do anything right today?"

   "Hey, it's not your fault. He's upset about Jack." 

   "It is my fault then!" 

   "I don't blame you though, Nature. I'll put up with it. Don't worry! Oh, thank goodness, I just realized I don't work today. Why don't I come over or something for the weekend? If my brother finds out, he can process it." 

   "What about your mother?" Nature wiped her nose.

   "Yeah, about that... I had to tell her we're a thing this morning. She's fine with it though." 

   "Oh, sure you can. That might be better. I don't know what I was thinking, Freedom," she leaned against his chest. "I thought I could be a Guardian, but it feels so wrong." 

   "It was your first day. It's meant to be difficult. You sure let that male Guardian get in your head, huh? You're going to make mistakes, but it's progress. You'll get there. It just won't happen in one day." 

   "You make everything alright again," she sighed in relief. "I think I'm done listening to them for a while. I want to find my own way." 

   "And you will. You'll be the best Guardian there ever was," he ran a hand through her curly hair. 

   After confidently letting his mother know where he would be for the weekend, Freedom took Nature's hand and they trotted along to her home. Thankfully, the Guardians left Nature alone for the time being, but how long would it last? Nature shook the thought away, only wanting to enjoy Freedom's company. 

   However, the temporary happiness faltered when they saw Foxy pacing around the front yard looking horrified. He noticed them too and hurried to them. 

   "Thank goodness you're here! I have terrible news and you're not going to like it," Foxy said uneasily. 

   "Don't tell me those stupid politics decided to expand here," Nature huffed. 

   "No, it's worse." 

   "What could be worse than that?" Freedom asked, glancing at the both of them. 

   "Well, the Guardians were here...," Foxy began hesitating. "They were joking around and..." 

   "Yes? What did they do? What mess do I have to clean?" Nature scowled. 

   "So, I'm not sure how it happened exactly, but dad and Emos... they, um..." 

   "Spit it out!" 

   "The Guardians... broke their necks..." 

   "WHAT?" Freedom dropped his book bag. 

   "Really?" Nature's pupils shrunk and her eyes turned red. "And where are they now?" 

   "Nature, wait!" Freedom chased her back through Hillville and to Settle Sun. She had bolting for the castle. He knew whatever she was about to do was going to be brash. 

   Nature aggressively snapped the throne room's doors open, and those poor two guards were practically smashed into the walls. Before Freedom could follow her in, he was hit by the doors coming back. The impact hit him in the face, making his nose bleed. One of the guards started snickering. 

   "Shut up!" Freedom yelled and continued into the throne room. 

   "WHERE ARE THEY? I KNOW THEY'RE HERE!" Nature burst at Queen Sun. Looking to her right, there they were, standing nervously. "I'M GOING TO KILL YOU TWO!" 

   "Uh, we're sorry?" Hannah sweated. 

   "YOUR SORRY? THAT'S ALL YOU HAVE TO SAY?" Nature continued, anger filling her bones.  

   "Oh, dear," Queen Sun shuddered, gripping the front sides of her throne. Nature looked deadly dangerous. 

   Also scared to even breath, the guards pinned themselves against the walls. It was crystal clear the Guardians had just made an enemy of themselves. 

   "I GAVE YOU TWO A CHANCE AND THIS IS HOW YOU REPAY ME? WHAT IS THIS SUPPOSED TO BE? A LESSON?" 

   Queen Sun held her breath, glancing at those red eyes letting out their hatred. She had known Nature a long time, but had never seen her so upset before. Freedom held his nose, still bleeding, and started to walk to the queen. 

   "Are you okay?" She asked, realizing he was bleeding. 

   "I'm fine. Nothing like getting hit by a door that weights a ton of bricks," he sighed. "I've had worse." 

   "Nature's about to let them have it, isn't she?" 

   "Let them have it?" He repeated. "No, she's going to set the kingdom on fire if we don't calm her down." 

   "It was an accident!" Hannah insisted. 

   "AN ACCIDENT? YOU CALL THAT AN ACCIDENT? OH, I'M GOING TO GIVE YOU AN ACCIDENT!" 

   "Nature-," Freedom rushed back down and touched her shoulder, but he instantly regretted it. Her skin was boiling. It burnt his hand and he quickly drew away. "Ah, hot, hot! Not this again!" 

   "IF YOU THINK I'M GOING TO ACCEPT YOUR CARELESS ACTIONS AS AN ACCIDENT, WELL YOU BETTER THINK AGAIN! I AM SO DONE WITH WHATEVER GAME YOU THINK YOU'RE PLAYING WITH ME!" 

   "Nature, please, can you think reasonably about this?" Freedom begged. She whipped around to face him. 

   "WHY SHOULD I? THEY BROUGHT THIS UPON THEMSELVES! THEY DO NOTHING BUT MAKE EVERYTHING WORSE! THEY ALSO APPARENTLY DON'T CARE THE JINX ARE JUST, OH I DON'T KNOW, TRYING TO TAKE OVER EQUALITY! BUT I'M JUST A NEWBEE, AND I DON'T KNOW ANYTHING!" She turned back to them. "RIGHT?" 

   But with her final statement, she fainted onto the floor. The two Guardians just stood agape.  

   "Why does she keep doing that?" Freedom sighed. 

   No one said anything, so he did the only thing he thought would be best. He picked her up and carried her back home. Foxy was still there, surprised to see Nature in one piece. Freedom's nose had stopped bleeding but he had to clean it. 

   After then, Foxy explained the rest of the family was in the hospital in Hillville, saying he should join them. However, they probably wouldn't be back until morning or even the next day. Freedom assured him he would take care of things, so he left. 

   Freedom had laid Nature on the couch. He gazed down at her, wondering why she hated the Guardians with such a passion. If only she would talk more about her past, maybe he could help her. Sadly, the past was a sensitive topic. 

   Yet, he needed to know.