December 23rd, 5032

"Mako you have to try again."

"Nope. I hate those type of heels. How am I going to walk an entire night in a heel that's as thin as a stick? One wrong move, I'll be dead. Nope, I've had enough near-death experiences, thanks." I argued, looking away from EliaseAnne who was giving me a foul look.

Today was the day of the party, and EliaseAnne and Daniel attempted to style me up – stating it would take me the longest to get ready if they let me be. Hmph, nonsense.

I currently rested in the living room of Junho's mansion in purple pajamas. Ryder must have changed me in the middle of the night because of me being a sweaty mess thanks to the fever. I was ready to shower after eating a large brunch, thanks to Elias’ amazing cooking, before Elias and Daniel brought up the opportunity to figure out what I would be wearing for tonight's event.

I had ended up sleeping for seventeen hours; only waking up after the boys took turns, multiple turns, trying to wake me – Kai finally being able to nudge me awake.

I didn't know if it was because of his low, commanding voice, with that hint of seduction that induced those results from me when the others had tried and failed, but whatever it was…it worked.

Thanks to Kai waking me and Daniel healing me, I was as good as new and ready to enjoy this Christmas party. But, there was no way in Starlight I'd be wearing those stick figure heels.

"It's a Galleria, Mako. You have to be all classy and shit." Eli pointed out.

"And, you're not going to fall to your death. You're being overdramatic." Daniel noted, removing his glasses before pinching his nose. He still looked tired but reassured me he'd take a quick nap after he did my hair.

"I don't care if it's the appointing of a Starlight god. I'm not wearing those." I confirmed, crossing my arms and glaring at them both. Nope, no falling to my demise ever. Already had to deal with slippery ice in winter, prickly grass in spring, solid cement and air. Air tripping you was just plain rude.

Daniel and EliaseAnne glanced at one another before sighing in unison. Did I talk out loud again?

"Yup." They both replied. Oops.

"Only you would trip over air." Midnight noted, resurfacing. Good afternoon to you too, Miss Ninja.

"Just because you don't sense me, doesn't mean I'm a ninja. Though, I wouldn't mind meeting one. Or a Samurai, but a female one. Those are rare." Midnight disclosed, talking to herself more than me.

"You seriously have an obsession with that movie." Rose pointed out with a yawn.

"It was pretty epic though." Hope acknowledged.

"Wouldn't it be epic to be a dual-wielding chick and have a rare spirit? She'd be such a badass." Lily pointed out, proudly.

"Oh please, you're just boasting because the female in the movie was a phoenix shifter," Lexi noted.

"I don't have an obsession. I just think she was cool. We'd get along." Midnight argued quietly.

I closed my eyes for a moment, relaxing into the cushions behind me.

What makes you think you two would get along? I was curious. I'd love for us to meet other shifters – maybe make a friend or two. It was nice that I had Scarlet and Cece as friends. Our book club was the first activity I had experienced with a group of shifters that didn't involve bloodshed or better yet, murder.

"I don't know. I guess maybe they would connect with us more due to their dual lifestyle. You know...one minute they're living their normal life surrounded by loved ones and the next moment, they're in the midst of battle fighting for their life. I sometimes feel we're also like that." Midnight explained, her voice low.

I allowed a few seconds to go by; thinking about the female samurai in the story and our life that we'd so far lived. The samurai's life was just as sad and harsh throughout her childhood till adult. Even with her loyal ninjas who stood by her; she had no other friends.

I agree. I guess, in a way we should be lucky that we have other friends now...but if that Samurai was a real person, somewhere out there...I'd really pray to Starlight we'd get to meet her one day. Maybe her mismatched eyes wouldn't look so sad.

"Me too." Midnight agreed, returning to her area in my mind.

I liked how Midnight would disclose more of her thoughts. I noticed my other spirits had begun to do the same. Sure, they never hesitated to comment and leave my mind with a headache, but when it comes to more sensitive topics and thoughts, they never used to share.

Now, they were willing to tell me if something bothered them or if they were curious about things in general. I really enjoyed the change.

"Mako?"

I opened my eyes to see Daniel sitting next to me; my body pressed against his as my head relaxed on his shoulder. Huh? How long did I close my eyes for?

"Twenty-five minutes and thirty seconds." Elias voiced out from the one-seater on my left. He was relaxed in the black cushions; his head rested on the top of the chair. He lifted it up to return my confused gaze with a small smile.

"We assumed you were talking to Midnight but then your breathing slowed. You think you're still up for tonight?" He inquired. I could see the hint of concern in those emerald eyes. I turned my head to Daniel who also looked worried; his glasses on top of his head which allowed me to take a moment and admire those golden orbs.

"I'm fine. I don't want to miss this. Plus, tonight is my date with Kai too. I'm not tired anymore." I replied.

I didn't want to miss out anymore, especially on such a special occasion. Kai had already disclosed that the event happened only twice a cycle, and we most likely wouldn't be able to come for the spring event without a good reason. This was my chance to enjoy a holiday I had never gotten to experience – a chance to be Christina and savor the joys of friends and family. I would enjoy every remaining moment.

I was in such a daze that I didn't notice the figure before me until a hand lifted my chin up – a pair of lips claimed mine. My eyes widened at the sapphire eyes reflecting my turquoise ones. He smirked against my lips, clearly satisfied with my surprise and acknowledgment of my dragon shifter as my body relaxed. I pressed my lips against his as my eyes closed – deepening the kiss. He groaned; his lips parted long enough for me to suck gently on his bottom lip. He seemed to enjoy this; his hand combed through my hair.

"So...I wonder how long are they gonna go at it till they remember we're here?" Daniel mumbled.

"Right? We shouldn't even say anything. Maybe we'll get to join in if we're good." Elias replied.

I snickered, releasing Marcus’ lips from captivity as I began to giggle. Marcus mumbled something before glancing at my two knights who stood next to each other, a hint of jealousy in their eyes.

"Stop being assholes. I've missed our Firefly and deserve extra love making time." He proposed. They both raised their eyebrows at his proposal.

"What? Why?" They replied together.

Marcus rose up to point at Elias.

"You technically got two days with her!" He pointed out; his finger landed on Daniel.

"And you pooped her out with your spa day which ended up being let's go skinny dipping session."

I practically choked on my saliva as I went into a body shaking, tear inducing laughter as I watched both of them flush at his accusations.

"That...it wasn't supposed to end up like that," Daniel mumbled, glancing away with embarrassment.

"And I didn't necessarily get two days...it was just...how the hell do you know about this?" Elias questioned, crossing his arms.

Marcus smirked before turning his head to face me, winking. I calmed for a moment; my laughter came to a pause as I tried to understand Marcus' look.

"He's up to something." Lexi teased; her flirtatious voice entered my mind.

What could he possibly be planning?

"A little orange birdie told me. I wonder how he possibly keeps track of everything?" Marcus pondered out loud.

The room settled in silence as we all gawked at him – all of us clearly coming to the same conclusion as Elias’ and Daniel's eyes widened; their jaws dropped in shock.

"He didn't," Elias argued.

"He couldn't." Daniel denied.

"He so would." I challenged. There was another moment of silence till Elias and Daniel darted out of the room.

"KAI!"

Marcus turned his attention back to me – a satisfied grin formed on his smooth lips. I finally realized what he just did.

"You're evil."

"I'm smart."

"How long until they realize you totally lied?"

"If I'm lucky thirty minutes, but knowing how sharp Elias is, he'll find Kai in twenty."

"You do realize you'll have three angry shifters after you."

"I'm prepared for that." He reassured me. I was about to stand up when one arm hooked around me and his other arm hooked underneath my knees, lifting me up with ease.

I quickly hooked my hands around his neck as I gave him a confused look.

"What are you doing?"

"I'm kidnapping the princess."

"I don't think you're supposed to reveal your plans."

"There's no one here to stop me."

"How about if I don't want to be kidnaped?"

He buried his face against my shoulder – kissing my flesh. I moaned, biting my lip. He rose to kiss me on my lips before pulling away.

"Trust me, my Firefly. You shall enjoy me kidnapping you. Now, we must scurry away to my evil lair, aka my bedroom."

I laughed; my arms tightened as we began to walk to his room.

"How about if my loyal knights come to rescue me?"

"Well, they can wait until after I'm done having my fun with you and we shower. Then I'll face them to fight for your freedom."

"What about if Kai uses the fact you still owe him?"

Marcus was silent for a moment, reaching the door to his designated sleep chambers.

"Then, I'm so screwed."

"Hahaha. Okay, my dragon kidnapper. Why don't you screw me first before you get screwed up by my knights in shining armor?" I whispered, leaning up to lightly bite his ear, tugging gently.

He let out a strained moan; his eyes already flickered from orange-red to his normal sapphire blue.

"You're being too compliant for a victim."

"Hmm?" I sounded as I continued kissing his neck.

"Ugh. Firefly, wait till I reach the bed before you go kissing – ugh. Fuck it." He complained. I lifted my head in time for his lips to smash against mine.

I have no idea how he was able to get the door unlocked, but that was the least of my worries. If I only had twenty-five minutes to get some action with my dragon knight; I'd use every last minute.

Or should I say twenty-four?

"Makoto, are you done?" Ryder called out.

"Dammit, why are ties so bloody complicated?" Elias let out a frustrated groan.

"Stop wrinkling the bloody thing. Stay still." I heard Marcus say.

"Christian's picking us up, right?" Daniel questioned.

"Yup. Kai's already at the Gala getting readied by his appointed beauty team. I don't see why he has to go so early. He's a male. What are they possibly doing to him?" Marcus complained.

"Eli says they have to make him all camera friendly and make sure his skin is flawless. I don't see why they can't sprinkle some glamour on him. Such a waste of product. Humans." Elias suggested.

I bit my lip as I nervously waited in front of the door – listening in on their conversation.

"You look beautiful, Makoto. Stop being so nervous." Midnight entered my mind. I bet all my spirits could feel how nervous I was – my hands trembled with nerves.

"But this is my first event with other people and humans. What if I don't fit in? Or people don't like me? I know Kai and the others said they wouldn't leave my side, but I'm scared to interact with strangers." I disclosed.

I walked back to the standing mirror in the corner of the room, looking at my reflection for the twentieth time.

I wore a maxi, sequin gown; the material started as white, transitioning into rose gold and finishing in orange – the entire material was lathered in sparkling crystals that glittered in the light. The extravagant cloth clung to my figure, accenting every curve. The sleeveless top half with the sewn in padding held my breasts in place; as if it was a bra itself. I even ran around the room in an attempt to see if I'd have a slip-up, but the material covered my lady bits well, making me wonder where Kai had purchased this dress and if they could make my entire wardrobe.

Sure, I loved fancy, lace bras and their beautiful jeweled designs, but every female shifter would come to a unanimous agreement that the best feeling in the world was taking off that steel infused material and throwing it as far as possible. Boobs deserved to be free.

I guess it would be a problem in a group of attractive men. Hard nipples and thin t-shirts would catch more attention than I needed. I got enough attention fully clothed.

I shook my mind out of the thoughts, continuing to inspect my outfit.

I wore a Swarovski necklace – the rose gold ensemble flickered in the light. It had one large stone followed by multiple miniature ones. In between the jewels were white pearls; each pearl had a few mini silver crystals. The remainder of the necklace alternated between silver and pearl beads. They matched the rose gold studded earrings I wore – a dangling pearl with two silver beads hung from the stud.

I wore white shoes from this brand called Christian Louboutin. I didn't know what was so special about them. I just thought it was a tad weird to put red underneath a shoe when no one would see it. Like, did people lift their feet in pictures just to show off the brand? Actually, scratch that. They probably did. With the female shifters of Knightwood, I bet they would do high kicks that showed their underwear and pose on cars to show off their designer shoes.

My nails were done, courtesy of Marcus. You would have never expected my big buff dragon knight to delicately apply nail polish with such accuracy; you would’ve thought one wrong stroke would be the end of the world. He admitted he used to paint Eli's nails when they were younger just to cheer her up.

Daniel did my hair which was in multiple loose curls, many of my front strands pulled back and put together in an interesting knot work I knew I would never be able to achieve on my own. He had inserted rose gold flowers – the little hair pieces were sprinkled in the pinkish color and then he carefully added a little glitter in my hair to finish the look.

EliaseAnne had finished my makeup, giving me a smokey eye with white, silver and black shadows transitioning in an ombre effect. Add in the black, waterproof eyeliner, double boost mascara, and false lashes and my eyes looked full and dynamic.

I didn't need to use contacts for this event, seeing as many of the guests would be shifters who "played" human. We were still required to hide our auras for the human’s sake. Didn't want to be in a room with aura leaking shifters. The venue would be packed with many people, and it would be humid inside. Our multiple auras would just make things worse.

Finally, I wore light blush and a nice shimmer highlight to match the red lipstick that completed my look. The shade always brought out my eyes the best, and EliaseAnne insisted I wear the color again. Even Scarlet and Cece had text messaged earlier to declare red lipstick was a must. I was excited to see the duo with their group of friends; or in Scarlet's case, love interests.

I took a deep breath.

You got this Mako. You're not gonna screw up and become a laughing stock to the entire human race. Nope, you're totally gonna be just fine. You look decent. Just smile and try not to burn the place down...or trip on air...or bump into anyone...or ask for milk. Hmm, I wonder if they have milk. Do they have champagne? Isn't that what Ryder called it? Does it taste like milk? From the picture, it looked like sparkling pee...hmmm. That would be pretty nasty.

"Baby, I pray to Starlight the champagne isn't urine and no alcohol for you. Remember last time?"

I turned my head to the doorway; Ryder closed the door gently behind him before his eyes landed on mine.

His smile widened into a teeth-revealing smile, and his expression softened before he walked towards me.

My eyes roamed his maroon colored suit – his white silk dress shirt matched with his fitted maroon pants and coat complimented him perfectly. Add in the Christmas inspired purple tie with gold and turquoise snowflakes, gold cufflinks and black dress shoes, he looked beyond attractive. His jet-black hair was styled to the side; a few strands fell to his face but merely complimented his features.

It made me want him all to myself tonight and if that was the case, I couldn't imagine how the others looked. My eyes would be having a lot of trouble not getting distracted.

When he stopped before me I smiled, licking my lips as I allowed my hand to roam against the soft material of his coat, pressing my body against him as I whispered into his ear.

"Why are you so hot? It's distracting."

"You’re one to talk, my princess. You're the queen of distraction." He whispered back; his arm wrapped around my waist before placing a light kiss on my neck.

"Hey, no hickeys. You know how hard it was to hide the multiple ones everyone else slathered on me." I complained. Ryder pulled away to give me a look – his eyebrow raised.

"Uh huh. Yet, three little birdies told me that a dragon shifter kidnapped their princess and whisked her away to his lair, but instead of cries for help, they heard what sounded like a lot of moaning." He mused, chuckling as my face flushed.

"That...that doesn't count! I was uh...charmed. Yes, charmed."

"By what, Marcus' handsome features or his seductive voice? No, it was his hair, wasn't it?" Ryder inquired. I smacked his chest; my face red with embarrassment.

"You’re just jealous it wasn't you." I countered back, narrowing my eyes. He took a moment to think before returning my scrutinizing look.

"Yes. I'm very hurt that he took my idea to kidnap you first. I'm supposed to get first dibs remember?"

"You were too slow." I joked; my hands hooked around his neck, pressing my body against him. He took a glance down at my breasts, which were extra plump with them pressed against his chest. I was glad the gown material was thick, hiding my arousal. It would be quite eye-catching if my hard nipples were on display.

"Hmm, it seems so. But I won't miss out next time." He whispered, pressing his forehead against mine – those lovely lips barely touched mine.

"If it wasn't for the fact Eli's banned me from kissing any of you in fear of ruining her hard work, I would be kissing you right now," I admitted; my breathy voice filled with desire. I didn't realize how much my body craved my demon knight until this very moment – being so close but unable to please one another. I already ached to feel him slide inside me – to fill me and fuck me till I cried in ecstasy.

From the heated gaze he gave me to his hands which had somehow gripped my ass, I knew the feeling was mutual. I knew our date wouldn't happen until tomorrow, but I definitely needed some Ryder time.

"I know." He whispered; his eyes flickered back and forth. Rose was already at the edge of my mind. I gave her a moment to take control – Ryder's eyes bled to black as Stryker took over.

~ROSE~

I blinked out of my temporary daze, smiling as my lover pressed against me; his lips mere centimeters from mine.

"Hello, handsome."

"Hello, beautiful."

He pulled me into a hug; my nose inhaled his rosy scent which was mixed with a nice cologne. I couldn't name what scent it was, but the combined aroma made me melt into his arms, enjoying every inhale.

"How are you feeling?"

"Better. Much better. Thank you, my love." I whispered, hoping my words could demonstrate how truly thankful I was to have him in my life.

"Always, my flower. I'll always be here to listen and comfort you."

"I know," I replied, giving him a squeeze. We pulled apart slightly, to look into one another's eyes, enjoying the silence surrounding us.

"We have a date tomorrow night. Make sure you aren't late." Stryker reminded.

"I'm never late," I argued.

"Remember when we were in Earthala last time and you promised to be on time for that event, but Mako couldn't wake you up."

I blushed, the memory flashed through my mind.

"That wasn't my fault! Uh...it was the alcohol, I swear." I argued, trying to think of an excuse. If humans could blame alcohol, so could I.

He chuckled, amused with my answer before shaking his head.

"Yup, blame the poor liquid that causes you to sleep through our date."

"I woke up later on."

"Ya. That was fun." He agreed, winking.

He closed his eyes, pressing his lips against my forehead. I smiled; enjoying the affection Stryker rarely portrayed. It was something I truly cherished.

"I think we should let our hosts go have fun. I don't need to listen to Eli's nagging about how late we are." Stryker sighed, sounding irritated.

"Oh please. EliaseAnne doesn't nag. She just repeats over and over again about how unprofessional it is to be late, while attempting not to break anything five inches away. Totally, not considered nagging." I retorted.

"Definitely nagging in my book."

"Your book needs an update."

"And we need to go." Stryker reminded me.

"Fine, fine. I'll fall to your demands today." I joked.

"I'm not demanding."

"You are in bed."

"That's not demanding. That's me being dominant."

"Same thing."

"It's certainly not."

Stryker flinched; a curse left his lips. I tilted my head in amusement.

"Let me guess; Eli snuck into the knight bond and just told you to hurry the fuck up."

He groaned, rolling his eyes.

"Elyion! Don't make me come out there if you keep that nagging up." Stryker called out. His threat was greeted with silence. He returned to face me.

"Sorry, I seriously can't stand when she does that. I don't get how Ryder has so much patience with that bond feeling shit. It's a pain in the ass. I'm switching back for the sake of my sanity. Let's have fun later." He bid farewell.

"Okay," I replied. I didn't catch his movement until his lips were already on mine; placing a quick peck on my red lips before retreating.

"Hey!" I called out, but he was already gone – Ryder returned as he blinked a few times.

"You know he doesn't play by the Do not kiss the princess rules," Ryder revealed, giving me a slight smile.

"I know. Demons don't like to follow rules." I admitted. I leaned forward giving Ryder a peck on the lips; my sudden gesture made him look confused.

"Have fun with my Makoto. You look hot." I finished, pulling back to give Makoto control.

~MAKOTO~

Ryder’s arms tightened around me, keeping me from losing balance as I tried to reorient myself.

"Thanks." He nodded.

"We should get going. Eli's annoying Elias which makes him anxious. I can already feel it leaking into our bond.

"Eli really hates being late."

"Yup. I think it’s one of those pet peeves." Ryder replied. He let go of me before taking a step back, giving me a deep bow as he gestured with his hand.

"May I have the honour to escort our Princess to the other knights?" I giggled, shaking my head at his gallant display.

"Of course. Just don't bow anymore. It's my pet peeve." I reminded with an amused grin.

"I know." He acknowledged, rising up with his hand still outstretched; my hand landed in his.

He escorted me out into the hallway, turning to our left to reveal my remaining three-star knights.

I sighed in awe; my eyes struggled to stay on one knight for too long before moving to the next.

Marcus was on the far right. He wore a sapphire silk dress shirt, black pants and navy dress shoes that looked shiny against the light. His hand held the collar of his suit jacket which was black with blue lining, draped against his back.

His caramel brown hair was in his famous man bun style; every strand placed perfectly and held with a black band. He'd shaved his beard to a small stubble style, and wore a blue, bow tie. His ring that had a sapphire jewel in the middle and silver cufflinks complimented him well.

Elias was in the middle; sporting an emerald green dress shirt, white pants, and dark green shoes. His white tie had a chibi little elf with fairy wings carrying a large gold present.

He wasn't wearing a coat like the others, but a white vest embroidered with a nice detailed pattern. His blonde locks looked like his usual hairstyle but were styled to give him a neat, sophisticated appearance. Those emerald jeweled-like eyes I adored were now black thanks to what I assumed were contacts, making him look different.

Daniel stood to my far left. He wore mustard colored dress pants; the black and grey, multiple square designed belt with the letters LV at the center of his waist complimented the black dress shirt and gold tie which had different colored presents falling from the top half. His jacket was the same mustard color as his pants but outlined with black. He wore black shoes and gold cufflinks to complete the look.

His ashy blonde hair was tied up in a neat ponytail, every strand in place and gelled to stay that way. He had his gold-rimmed glasses on; bright brown contacts in place to hide his normal golden ones. I knew he and the others would have to wear contacts. Only, Marcus could get away with his eye color – most people thought he wore colored contacts to begin with.

I could only imagine how Kai looked – probably wearing something centered around his favorite, designated color – orange.

I wasn't the only one taking my time to analyze our glammed-up appearance. All three of my knights had been looking me up and down the entire time – admiration present in their eyes but also a hint of lust. They were doing a better job than Ryder who hadn't tried to hide his desire for me.

"Good evening Princess." They said in unison.

"Hello, my handsome star knights." I replied, earnestly. The three of them walked forward to reach our side.

"You look as hot as hot chocolate," Elias commented. I giggled.

"I like hot chocolate, so I guess that's a good thing."

"I do too…especially when I get to devour it." Marcus disclosed, winking. I blushed before Lexi took over for a split second.

"Of course, you do." She winked, retreating after witnessing Marcus' face grow tomato red. The others laughed.

"Marcus can't handle Lexi haha," Daniel commented.

"Right? I'm surprised Ryuu can. She's far too daring." Ryder chuckled.

"Hey, I so too can handle her...when she's not as dominant in nature."

"Which is when?" Elias questioned. Marcus frowned, looking away.

"Never."

We all broke out in laughter – Marcus' flustered face looked beyond cute.

"Are we ready to go? And wait a minute, I thought you guys weren’t going to wear contacts? And, Ryder. Why aren't you wearing contacts if the others are?" I turned to face him, my hand still in his.

"They irritate my eyes. Plus, if Stryker takes over he always dissolves them due to the power shift in our eyes. It's such a waste. Contacts are expensive." Ryder complained.

"I'll place a glamour on him. Doesn't take much energy to hold for the night, so we should be good." Elias confirmed.

“But, do you have to wear them?” I pondered.

“It makes our lives easier. Sure, there are other shifters there, but our group stands out to begin with. We like to attempt to blend in and not give the impression that all of us are shifters.” Marcus explained.

"Okay. Shall we go?" I questioned.

"Of course. Let's have fun tonight, Princess." Ryder declared, the others nodded in agreement.

"Yes. Off to the Galleria."