Chapter Seventy-Three: Less like a Monster, More like a Monster

Velis entered the main room where Ilias was looking out into the dark sky.
Ilias
Can I help you, Velis?
Velis sat down at the chair nearest to her.
Velis
Not really, I'm just bored and thinking.
Ilias
I see. Well, I don't mind the company.
Velis
I have a question though.
Ilias turned around.
Velis
Why'd you kill your sister? Why did you kill Iris?
Ilias turned back around to face the sky again.
Ilias
It had to be done. I can't articulate a much more intelligible answer. I'm afraid the attempt to would be nonsensical. Is that enough for you?
Velis shrugged.
Velis
I guess. I just can't believe you did it. I was under the impression that she meant the world to you and your love for her would keep her safe.
Ilias
Priorities change, Velis. You can't say that notion is under you, can you? The Velis I remembered used to be fearless and careless, now, well now you stand before me less like a monster and more like a girl in love.
He laughed.
Ilias
I don't think you should talk or use a word like love against me as if you had the right to use it.
Velis
Fair enough. I still can't believe it, if that's all right with you.
Ilias
It doesn't matter. I did what I had to do and that's it.
Velis
What next?
Ilias
Silly Velis, do you think I'd be stupid enough to divulge my plans to you?
Velis
I am your ally.
Ilias
Is that so? You change teams just as fast as Fallen.
Velis
If Cameron is with you, so am I.
Ilias
Well, I suppose that is true. Next thing on my list to do is to get Cameron on the same level as Arkain.
Velis
What do you mean? Cameron would crush Arkain!
Ilias
While that may be true, Cameron hasn't exactly shown us his wings.
Velis
His wings?
Ilias
His wings, Velis. Your little boyfriend is an angel.
Velis looked taken aback.
Ilias
You look surprised. I guess you were hoping I'd say demon. Oh well. Cameron needs to show us what he can do beyond the power he has shown us.
Velis
How do you expect him to do that?
Ilias
With your love.
Velis was confused.

Gemma
Fallen, is it?
Fallen growled.
Gemma
What business do you have here?
Fallen
You're in my world, kid.
Gemma laughed. Krysin was in full control now.
Gemma
I do not fear you, fox. Get out of here before I eat you too.
The sharp teeth on the mouth chomped down.
Arkain
Get out of here, Fallen!
Fallen turned to look at Arkain.
Fallen
Shut up, idiot, I'm going to save you both.
Cameron
Well can you hurry this up?
Fallen
With pleasure.
A beam of white blasted out of Fallen's mouth and Gemma disappeared. Arkain and Cameron fell to the ground.
Cameron
What the hell did you just do?
Fallen
I transported her away from here. As of now she is up above this palace high in one of my prisons. That should give us four hours, I hope.
Arkain
You have some explaining to do!
Fallen turned to them.
Fallen
I guess I can do that.
Fallen sat down with them and explained why they were there.
Cameron
He needs our help? Ilias isn't a part of the Empire anymore?
Fallen
No. He hasn't been for years now.
Arkain
I can't believe this. You've been working with him? What happened to the White Coats?
Fallen
All a part of the game. I had to work it well if you all were going to believe me.
Cameron
You deserve an Oscar.
Arkain
I'd say so.
Cameron
I can't help but feel it's not that simple though. Ilias just needs us as allies? What's the catch?
Fallen
There isn't one.
Arkain
Why couldn't he have asked us?
Cameron
Because he knew we wouldn't join him. We're not even joining him now.
Fallen
But we need you to fight the Empire.
Cameron
We've been doing that without him for awhile now, and we'll continue to do so.
Cameron began to head for the door.
Arkain
Wait, Cameron.
Cameron stopped.
Arkain
What about Gemma?
Cameron
She's not Gemma anymore. She's more like a monster. If that thing is protecting her body, I don't think we can kill her.
Arkain looked back at Fallen.
Arkain
What will you do with her?
Fallen
We are going to extract the monster within her. After that she will remain here with Ilias. Well, if she survives the extraction.
Arkain
So he married her and then he's going to do something that might kill her?
Fallen
Can you think of another way? That thing inside of her will take over her completely if it doesn't happen. Even now it has gained the upper hand in control.
Arkain
There has to be another way!
Fallen
You can say that, but it doesn't make it so.
Cameron
What does that matter to you, Arkain? Forget she killed your mother?
Arkain didn't respond. Luna came into the room.
Luna
I hope they're not planning on leaving. Ilias would not be happy with that.
Fallen
They're not.
Cameron
We're not? What makes you think so?
Fallen
Because Ilias has Velis.
He looked at Arkain next.
Fallen
And he has Suri.

Vesper
What's going on?
Vesper had just woken up. Nick moved to her side.
Nick
You okay?
Vesper
Answer my question.
Nick
We're outside of some odd black palace. My parents are fighting Amya and some man.
Vesper opened her eyes and saw Nick kneeling before her.
Vesper
You're that boy.
Nick nodded.
Vesper
How did I get here?
Nick
Well, we saved you from that fox. He bit you and you went unconscious.
Vesper
Thank you.
She sat up.
Vesper
I am grateful for this.
Nick
No need.
Nick touched her hand.
Nick
I'll protect you.
Vesper thought about what was happening here.
Vesper
I hope you don't think anything will come out of what we did. So far as I'm concerned, everything is as it has always been, that never happened.
Nick stood up.
Nick
Well, that doesn't matter. I'll still protect you still. You're my friend.
Vesper looked up at the boy she had once had sex with.
Vesper
Friend?
Nick
Yeah, and friends protect each other.
He stuck out his hand. Vesper was frozen for a moment.
Vesper
(This must be what Pathion feels for Syn.)
She grabbed his hand and he helped her up.
Malic
What are we going to do?
Vesper
If they move to attack, leave it to me.

Forest
My daughter?
Amya stood in front of Grey, Roselyn, Kegan, and Supriya.
Amya
Your willingness to see this to the end is most noble. Unfortunately, you cannot win here. We have no ill will against you four so I suggest you leave. Do so now, and you won't be followed.
Grey
Big words coming from the likes of you. We will do no such thing.
Forest walked up and stood next to Amya.
Forest
You, with the long red hair, what is your name?
Roselyn
My name is Roselyn.
Forest
You are daughter of Amya?
Roselyn
Yes, and why does that matter?
Forest walked forward. The others prepared to battle.
Forest
At ease, for I am no longer your enemy.
Amya
What?
Forest stood before Roselyn.
Forest
I am your father, Roselyn of the Forest.
Roselyn's eyes widened.
Amya
(This isn't good. Ilias won't be pleased by this, even though we calculated this.)
Amya walked backwards.
Amya
Forest, you're making a grave mistake.
Forest
Quiet, woman, for you no longer have a voice for my ears. You've made an enemy of your daughter, my daughter, our blood.
Forest extended his arms.
Forest
I've missed you, dearly.
Roselyn
I don't know what to say.
Forest
My name is Forest, and I've been waiting for this day.
Roselyn hugged him. She had thought he was dead this whole time.
Amya
You fool!
Forest
I said quiet!
The ground rose around Amya and it wrapped her.
Amya
How dare you!
Forest turned around.
Forest
I once loved you, but consider that history, Amya of the nowhere.
Amya laughed loudly.
Roselyn
I had no idea.
Grey
Your father is the God of the Earth.
Forest
It's time you die, vile creature.
He turned to Roselyn.
Forest
I hope you have no reservations left for this woman.
Roselyn
None.
Next to forest the ground shot up and revealed a sword.
Amya
The sword of life? You would use the earth's power on me?
Forest nodded.
Forest
Just to make sure you never wake again.
He grabbed the sword by it's handle.
Forest
If only you would have stayed your grace.
He lifted the sword.
Forest
We could have been a family.
He was about to stab her through the chest when they heard it.
Roselyn
Dragons!
They all turned to see two dragons flying their way. Ayn and Nya had arrived home.

Syn and Pathion stood outside of Ximendos' lair.
Syn
What's wrong with you?
Pathion didn't respond.
Syn
I need an answer, Patrick.
Pathion sat down on the bench.
Pathion
What do you mean what's wrong with me? Tusa's dead, Darby abandoned us, and Vesper's MIA! How do you want me to feel, Simon? How?
Syn
Calm down, I didn't mean for you to yell at me.
Pathion
I'm sorry. I just don't know what the fuck we're doing, alright? Sure, fine, you made up with that bitch, but that doesn't mean I trust her.
Syn
You have to.
Pathion
No, I don't. I don't think what we're doing is right, dude.
Syn
We're working with my sister and her husband. Don't you want a future?
Pathion
A future? What do you mean? We're immortal Simon! What don't you get about that?
Syn
Tusa's dead, remember?
Pathion
So?
Syn
Hayden killed him.
Pathion
So that's why we should not be on the bad side of Hayden! Orthak is dead, we have no reason to fear Ximendos!
Syn
Did you forget he is half elf now?
Pathion was dumbstruck.
Syn
Looks like that part slipped your mind. As of now both enemy sides have the ability to kill us, Pat. If we want to survive, we must stay on the side with the most powerful people.
Pathion
I guess that makes sense.
Syn
It does, idiot. As for Vesper being gone, I have no idea where she is. Her energy reading should be detectable but as of now it is just as gone as she is.
Pathion
I was thinking the same. I miss her.
Syn
Oh shut it. You miss fighting? Stop being such a pussy.
Pathion stood up.
Pathion
I just want to know she's okay.
Syn hugged Pathion.
Syn
It's going to be okay. We'll be okay.
Akasha came outside.
Akasha
Did you both want to come inside?
Syn
It's okay, we're fine out here.
Akasha
Well, we're leaving in the morning so get enough sleep.
They both nodded and she left.

Ximendos
They're not going to be a problem, are they?
Akasha sat down on the bed aside from Ximendos.
Akasha
Why would they be?
Ximendos
I haven't the slightest clue, except that no one can be trusted nowadays.
Akasha
I can, can't I?
Ximendos
Out of the entire world, yes. I'm biased though, as I love you. There's one thing I've learned lately though, and don't be offended by me reciting it.
Akasha
Go ahead.
Ximendos
Though we can count on others at times, we can only count on ourselves all the time.
Akasha
I can hardly disagree. Why count on two hands of another when you have your own?
Ximendos lied back on the bed.
Ximendos
You are very wise, Amanda. Ever since I've met you, you've been so wise.
Akasha
As if I have anything to teach you, my love.
Ximendos
You never know. I might be the strongest being alive, but I am far from the most wise. Wisdom escapes me like the mouse from the cat.
Akasha
A little hard on yourself, no?
Ximendos
Not at all. Just honest, is all.
Akasha lied down next to him.
Akasha
Do you really believe what that soldier said about the ones that took the life of Iris?
Ximendos
I do. I have no reason to deny it. Judging by the outcome of all this, anything is possible.
Akasha
That seems so. I wish we would have known. Maybe we could have saved her.
Ximendos
Don't dwell on it, my love. What is done is done. All we can do now is go on.
Akasha
When will we bury her?
Ximendos
When we've reached my home.
He rubbed her back as she fell asleep.

Amros
I cannot feel any sign of them.
Hayden
The ship Grey followed must have gone to an area concealed by magic. Not even I can find them.
Amros
What are we to do now?
Hayden
I think we must return the White Coats lair.
Amros
We have to regroup.

Cameron
Why does Ilias have Velis? I knew he did, but why?
Fallen
Well, why do you think, Cammy? He did it to bring her to you. To show he is your ally.
Cameron
I couldn't dream of someone more that I despise. I am not looking for allies.
Fallen
Quit being so melodramatic. You need them.
Cameron
Don't tempt me, Fallen.
Cameron took a step forward.
Luna
Fallen, what's his problem?
Arkain
Once Suri and Velis get here, can we leave? I think it's up to us to decide whether we're allies or not.
Fallen
I'm afraid it's not that easy.
Arkain
You're playing hostage with them?
Fallen
You can call it that. Don't you understand? You need us, and we need you.
Cameron
I don't care! If we are not able to leave once they arrive, we'll make our way out.
Fallen
You can try, but you will only fail.
Cameron
Is that a threat, Fallen?
Fallen growled.
Fallen
Always, baby.
Arkain
Can you two shut the hell up?
Luna
Yeah!
Arkain
We don't need to fight. We're not enemies!
Cameron
Says you! I don't trust this little shit. Since the very beginning he has been playing all the fields.
Fallen
And you haven't? Get off your high horse!
Cameron
No, I like it up here.
Arkain
Stop already! Listen, Cameron, we have to at least hear Ilias out. It's the only way to know Suri and Velis will be okay.
Cameron
They'll be okay whether he allows them to be or not.
Fallen
You're a fool! We have a common enemy!
Cameron
I never said we didn't. But the enemy of my enemy is simply my enemy.

Emmylou opened her eyes. Conor was sitting on the edge of the bed.
Conor
Sleep well?
She nodded.
Conor
Feel any better?
Emmylou
No. It's not a thing I can sleep off.
Conor
But it's a fever you have to sweat off eventually.
Emmylou
Well, eventually isn't now.
She stood up and entered the restroom.
Conor
I'm sorry, Emmy.
Emmylou
For?
Conor
For not staying and helping them like we were supposed to have.
Emmylou
We had orders, and that's that.
Conor
We could have broken them. We're used to breaking the rules, aren't we?
Emmylou
We didn't think about it then. It would be great to rewind and fix things, no?
Conor
One of humanity's greatest wishes. Too bad.
Emmylou
What do you think is going to happen now?
Conor
Not sure. Ilias said we're going to his house.
Emmylou
Not sure how I feel about that.
Conor
Me neither, but what choice do we have?
Suri
None.
Suri had opened the door slowly so they didn't know she was entering.
Conor
Hey Suri.
Emmylou waved while brushing her teeth.
Suri
You guys sleep well?
Conor
Yeah, did you?
Suri nodded. She sat next to Conor.
Suri
I'm glad we're okay, guys. While I was in there, I was worried the whole time.
Conor
We're just happy you made it out.
Suri
Thanks to Ilias.
Emmylou spat.
Emmylou
He really saved you, huh?
Suri
Yeah, and he killed his sister.
Conor
Tough shit. Think he's crazy?
Suri
I don't think so.
Emmylou
He seems pretty stable to me.
Emmylou sat on Conor's lap.
Suri
Sorry about your mom, Em.
Emmylou
Nothing that can be done. I have to stay strong for Ian, myself, and you guys.
Conor
That's better.
He rubbed her leg.
Suri
I'm so happy I met you guys on this journey. You guys are really the first friends I've ever had.
Conor put his arm around Suri.
Conor
The feelings mutual. We fucking love you, dude.
They laughed.
Emmylou
We wouldn't have made it this far without you, Suri. You are our wonder woman.
She smiled at Suri. Suri smiled back.
Suri
Just promise me, that whatever happens next, you guys will never forget what we've been through.
Conor
How could we?
Emmylou
Impossible, really.
Conor
We're best friends, and that makes us family.
Suri felt something she thought she never had never felt.
Conor
What's wrong?
Suri
I just felt something I haven't felt in so long.
Emmylou
Did you just fart?
Conor nudged Emmylou.
Suri
No, I just felt the sensation of wanting to cry. It's gone now, but I felt it.
Conor
Crying because you're happy is a good thing. Hell, crying period is good.
Emmylou
I'd know that.
Conor
You have to allow yourself to cry sometimes if you're ever going to grow.
Suri
Maybe one day.
Conor
Make sure they're of happiness though.
Suri
I will. I love you guys.
Emmylou and Conor
Love you too.

Munro
What are you thinking, brother?
Munro asked Germ as they stood outside the palace balcony watching the sky.
Germ
I want what we were promised. That's impossible now.
Munro
Not if we get it by force.
Germ
What did you have in mind?
Munro
How about we take the half dead?
Germ
How do you think we'll manage that?
Munro
Simple, we go to it. We go to where Ilias is keeping her.
Germ
I know that much, brother. I mean, how will we do that once we're there.
Munro
Well, first you need to close your eye, Germ.
Germ looked at Munro and saw he was closing his left eye.
Germ
I almost forgot!
Germ closed his eye.
Germ
You are brilliant, Munro.
Lucifer the cat was looking up at the sky across from Nick, Vesper, and Malic. Munro and Germ could see far higher than they could at the white circle high in the sky.

Forest
Dragons? Well we still have time.
Forest pushed the sword forward towards her chest but then suddenly someone appeared before him grabbing the sword with their two fingers.
Forest
Who the hell are you?
Cash
The lady belongs with us, so we'll be taking her now.
Forest
Out of my way, stranger, and you will live.
Gwen appeared on top of the wood wrapped around Amya.
Gwen
It's time for you all to get the fuuuuuck out of here.
Luck appeared next to Amya.
Luck
We've come to return you to the inside.
Forest
You will do no such thing.
Roselyn, Grey, Kegan, and Supriya surrounded them.
Renn
If you all wish to die, I suggest you start fighting.
Renn was flying above Amya and Gwen.
Renn
We have no quarrel with you but we have orders to kill if you continue to fight.
Cash
By all means, continue.
Gwen
Yeah!
Roselyn
Grey, their power is massive!
Grey
I say we retreat.
Renn
It would be wise that you did. We are beyond your level of power.
Kegan
Who are you four?
Luck
We're the Four Winds.
Gwen
Number four, Gwen.
Cash
Number three, Cash.
Luck
Number two, Luck.
Renn
Number one, Renn. We are temporary guards of Ilias Anselia and this palace. We do not wish to fight you.
Gwen
I do!
Renn
So please, remove yourself from these lands.
Amya
Do as you're told, Roselyn. You don't want to die here.
Forest
I said for you to shut up.
Supriya
We must leave, now!
Kegan
I'm down to fight if you guys are.
He looked at Grey and Roselyn.
Renn
If you do, death will only come out of it.
Roselyn jumped back.
Roselyn
Grey, we must go!
Grey looked over at Kegan who was awaiting orders.
Grey
What's the percent of us winning this, Kegan?
Kegan
I'd say forty nine percent us, fifty one them.
Grey
I see. What say you, Supriya?
Supriya
I vote retreat.
She ran over to Roselyn.
Supriya
These beings are monsters.
Kegan
And so are we! Despite their sheer strength, I'm sure we could take them together. Well, almost sure.
Grey
Forest, will you retreat with us?
Forest
I will do no such thing. Amya must die now.
Gwen
You are a lot like me, old man!
Renn
Forest, were you not one of our allies?
Forest
I was up until I realized my daughter wasn't with us.
Amya
Oh get over it, Forest! If you loved her so much you would have stayed!
The ground began to shake.
Renn
Is that him, Amya?
Amya
Yes.
Renn
You are walking a thin line, Forest. If you continue, my blade will cut you down.
Forest
You fools cannot kill me.
Luck
I'm sure we'll find a lucky spot.
Cash
The floors still shaking.
Renn
What say you, Forest? Death or life?
Forest
I say death for you all!
He let go of the sword and it disappeared. He jumped back. Before he could do anything, Roselyn yelled.
Roselyn
You have a grandson!
They all stopped and turned to her. Amya especially.
Forest and Amya
What did you say?
Roselyn
I have a son. A beautiful boy named Nicolas Kasper. He's your grandson!
Forest
I cannot believe it. How old is he?
Roselyn
Nineteen.
Amya
Why did you never tell me?
Roselyn
I always thought you didn't want me to have kids.
Amya
That couldn't be farther from the truth. I always wanted to be a grandma.
Ayn and Nya had arrived.
Kegan
Time to go!
Kegan made them all disappear. Amya stood alone with the Four Winds.
Amya
His name is Nicolas.

Vesper watched as everyone from Nick's side disappeared including Nick.
Malic
What the hell? Where'd he go?
Vesper
The others must have been linked to him. He has left with them.
Malic
Guess that leaves just us, tuts.
Vesper
You're almost as bad as Pathion.
Darby
Where is Pathion, anyways?
A sword appeared at Vesper's throat?
Darby
Don't try and run, this sword can kill you in an instant.
Malic
Oh you in trouble now!
Darby
Please Vesper, I only wish to speak with you.

Nick appeared away from everyone. Nick appeared on the beach where his friend's body laid.
Nick
It's getting dark.
He sat down next to Steven's body.
Nick
I'm sorry, bro. I should have protected you.
Roselyn
Some things are out of our control, Nicolas.
He turned to see his mom and dad standing behind him.
Nick
How did you guys find me?
Grey
Your mother placed a leaf on you that keeps you from being lost.
Nick wiped his eyes.
Roselyn
This was your friend, Steven, was it not?
Nick nodded.
Nick
The empire got to him when I thought he'd be okay. I just don't understand why they did. He was just a human.
Grey
Just a human? Nicolas, listen to yourself.
Grey crouched next to him.
Grey
Steven wasn't just a human. He was your best friend.
Nick
So?
Grey
That made him special. And all the people he loved made them special, and so on.
Roselyn
What your father means is no one is just a human. They're all special in their own right.
Nick
Why?
Grey
Because we are all living and breathing creatures capable of loving.
Roselyn
And hating. Capable, nonetheless. Humans are special, Nicolas, just like you, and us all.
Nick
Not special enough to live.
Grey
Death is apart of life, Nick. You're right, Steven wasn't unique in dying, but likewise, in being alive, you're not unique in trying to be.
Nick
So we're special but not special?
Grey
Twisting of words, but you can say that. We're special to each other, normal and important in our own right. Nicolas, you can't beat yourself up over this. Things that are out of your control should not be something to dwell over.
Nick
But I could have saved him.
Roselyn
How?
Roselyn now was holding him.
Nick
I don't know how, but I know I could have done something.
He lost it now. He cried.
Roselyn
People change, people die, people live, it's a cycle, my love.
She kissed his head as he cried on her shoulder.
Roselyn
Don't be afraid of living or losing.
Roselyn made the ground move so a grave was made.
Roselyn
It's time to put him to rest, Nicolas.
Nick stood up.
Nick
You guys can't bring him back?
They both nodded.
Nick
I guess what's done is done.
Roselyn
Once something dies.
Grey
You can't make it live.
Nick picked up Steven's body.
Nick
You were the best friend anyone could have had. I hope to see you someday. Whether that be in another place or form. Goodbye, brother.
He placed him into the ground. Roselyn buried him.
Roselyn
It's okay, Nick.
Nick
I know it is.
He wiped his eyes.
Nick
Now I find the two that did it. That's all that matters now.

Amya sat down in the control room.
Amya
Thank you all for that. I owe you one.
Renn
We do not keep count, so don't worry about it.
The Four Winds stood in the control room around Amya.
Renn
Ilias told us to save you if things went south.
Amya
Oh and south they went. Damn, I can't believe it happened as it did.
Renn
It doesn't matter. You awoke the Earth's sword for a purpose and that's all that matters.
Luck
We'll harvest his energy soon. The plan is still in progress.
Amya
I suppose you're right.
Gwen
So, tell me about your family problems!
Gwen said as she sat down next to Amya. Ayn and Nya both stood guard on the palace walls.

Ilias
When we arrive my men will escort you in. Please do not give them much trouble as they are tired from the flight here.
Suri
No problem.
They all nodded.
Ian
Where are we going?
Emmylou
Somewhere safe, Ian, somewhere safe.
The ship landed and the soldiers escorted them off.
Velis
Where are they off to?
Ilias
Just to wait in the sleeping area until I need them.
Velis
So I can see Cameron now?
Ilias
Of course you can.
Velis
Thanks, Ilias. You've been trustworthy so far.
She walked past him.
Ilias
One more thing, Velis.
Velis stopped and turned around.
Ilias
I lied.
His eyes glowed silver and Velis no longer moved on her own.
Velis
What are you doing?
Ilias
I decided I can't allow Cameron to know the truth about the night he lost his brother.
Velis
It's okay, I won't tell him.
Ilias
No, that's the problem.
He smiled.
Ilias
You will.

Cameron
Where is he, Fallen?
Fallen
Calm down, he has just arrived.
Luna
You need to loosen up a bit!
Fallen
You tell him, hunny.
Cameron
Oh shut up you wild animals.
She hissed.
Arkain
No but seriously, where is he?
The sliding doors opened. Ilias stood at the doors.
Ilias
I believe you were expecting me.
Cameron and Arkain both gave him a nasty look. There stood the man that they both have known to have messed with their lives in terrible ways.
Ilias
Are you ready to know the truth about all that has happened up until now?

Chapter Seventy-Two: The Ship in a Bottle

14 years ago...
Akasha
What are you doing, Ilias?
Ilias sat at the kitchen table reading a book. His mother walked in worried about what he was doing up at such a late hour.
Ilias
I'm reading, mom. What's wrong?
She stood at the door frame.
Akasha
Nothing, you just startled me. I heard noises and I didn't know what they were.
Ilias
I'm sorry, I didn't mean to wake you.
She was walking towards him.
Akasha
It's okay. What are you reading?
She looked over his shoulder.
Ilias
Nothing really, just some philosophy books.
Akasha
My smart baby.
She kissed him on the head.
Ilias
Stop it, mom.
She laughed.
Akasha
Already getting too old for my kisses?
Ilias
No, I just don't think I should be getting them for reading.
Akasha
You're barely five years old and you're already reading philosophy books! I don't think there has ever been a more intelligent boy around!
Ilias smiled.
Ilias
Thanks mom, I love you.
Akasha
I love you more, Ilias.

10 years ago...
Ilias and Ximendos sat on a bench by the ocean. They were watching the sun go down.
Ilias
Dad, why are you always so quiet?
Ximendos
I always have a lot to think about.
Ilias
So why don't you ever tell me about these things?
Ximendos
You're too young to burden with such things.
Ilias
When will I be old enough?
Ximendos
In five years.
He rubbed his head. In front of them they saw a little girl fall and a mom and dad pick her up and make sure she was okay.
Ilias
Aw, they made sure she was okay. Humans can be so kind to each other.
Ximendos
Don't be so naive, Ilias, they are wicked creatures.
Ilias
But that mom and dad are just like you and mom, aren't they?
Ximendos
Except they're human. Don't let your perspective on them be perverted by their rare moments of kindness. I assure you, it's only a glimmer in their pool of darkness.
Ilias
If you say so. You know more than I do, father.
Ximendos
I do. If not for them, you'd have a grandma.
Ilias
I would have liked that. It's okay though, I have you.
Ilias hugged Ximendos.
Ximendos
Yes, yes you do. Don't you ever forget that. Ilias, remember, humans are below us.
Ilias
Humans are below us?
Ximendos
Yes.

6 years ago.......
Ilias was playing with the snow in the forest down by the Anselia home.
Ilias
I want to be powerful!
He hit the snow with his fists.
Ilias
I want to do it all!
He kicked the snow across the field.
Stranger
Do what, exactly?
Ilias turned around. He couldn't see anyone around.
Ilias
Who are you?
Stranger
Who? What? Does that matter?
Ilias
I think it does.
Stranger
It doesn't. Now answer my question.
Ilias
What was it, exactly?
Stranger
Do what, exactly?
Ilias
If you're referring to my comments while kicking the snow, it's none of your business.
Stranger
You yelled it, it bothered me, it's my business.
Ilias
I don't think that's how it works. Perhaps if you showed your face, coward, I'd be a bit more generous with my sharing.
Stranger
I don't see any reason to do so. Besides, it would ruin the surprise.
Ilias
What surprise?
Stranger
Your face when you realize what is going to kill you.
Ilias was confused. Kill him? What had he done to deserve such a thing?
Stranger
Scared?
Ilias
Not in the slightest. I do not fear you.
Stranger
You're a little young, Ilias Anselia.
He froze in the cold melting snow.
Stranger
How do I know your name? Well you must know nothing about your family, huh?
The voice laughed.
Stranger
It looks like it. Well, your family is a dark and twisted one, little boy.
Ilias
You're lying.
Stranger
Am I? Or is daddy just not letting you in on the big picture. The picture picture, kid, is you've been born into a family of murderers.
Ilias
You've spoken too much, now leave!
Stranger
I don't think so. Remember what I said? I'm going to kill you.
Ilias' eyes glowed silver.
Stranger
What's that? Your eyes glowed. I see you've picked up something from mommy and daddy.
Ilias
Why must you kill me? What have I done to you?
Stranger
It's more like the things your father has done and will do.
Ilias
What my father has done holds no weight over me. I will not be called guilty for things I did not do with my own hands.
Stranger
Is that so? Well, tell me, Ilias, what do you think about humans?
Ilias
Well, they are terrible creatures that wish to do nothing but wage war and kill.
The stranger laughed.
Stranger
And how did you come to learn this? Something you witnessed with your own eyes?
Ilias
No, but-
Stranger
Or let me guess, something your father told you. The irony wants to suffocate me.
Ilias
I don't see your point.
Stranger
My point is you wish not to be judged by what your father has done yet all you believe about humans is based on what their fathers have done. Aint that some shit?
Ilias
Do you know much about them?
Stranger
Yes, yes I do. Would you like to see the other side?
Ilias
Show me! Show me this other side you speak of.
Stranger
Very well.
Ilias felt dizzy and when he opened his eyes again he was in front of a hospital.
Stranger
Inside, boy, go inside.
Ilias entered the hospital.
Stranger
Straight down, to the right.
He walked until he reached the last room. There was a girl inside. On the glass doors it said Ellen.
Ilias
What's this?
Stranger
A disgusting human, as you would say.
He opened the door.
Stranger
Careful, she might destroy you.
Ellen
Hello? Who are you?
Ilias
My name is Ilias.
Stranger
Tell her you work here.
Ilias
I work here.
Ellen
Aren't you a little too young to work here?
Ilias
My father owns the hospital.
Stranger
Nice.
Ellen
Oh, I see.
She rested her head again.
Ellen
Do you think I'll be okay, then?
Ilias
Excuse me? I don't know what's wrong with you.
Ellen
I have cancer. It's a rare kind.
Ilias
What's cancer?
Ellen looked at him as if he was joking.
Ellen
It's a disease, silly. One that takes lives.
Ilias
And you have it?
Ellen
Yes.
She took off her cap and revealed a bald head.
Ellen
Ever since I was seven.
Ilias
How old are you now?
Ellen
I'm eleven.
Ilias
That is terrible. How did you get it?
Ellen
Don't know. Mom said God gave it to me to take me home.
Ilias
God? Does she really think that's true?
Ellen
She does. I don't like when she says it though. I don't want to go where he is. This feels like home to me. How can a place I never been be my home?
Ilias
That sounds just awful.
Ellen
Do you believe in God?
Ilias
No.
Ellen
Me neither. I stopped believing when things got worse. Mother told me I'll find God in my last days.
Ilias
I hope he doesn't find you.
Ellen
Last days? I don't want last days. I want every day.
Ilias
Do you remember normal life?
Ellen
Sorta, not too much. It's all blur, really. Do you have a normal life?
Ilias
No, not really. You're the first person I've ever met outside of family.
Ellen
What a shame! You need some friends. Want to be friends?
Ilias
Aren't you human though?
Ellen looked taken aback.
Ellen
What? Course I am. Aren't you?
Ilias nodded.
Ellen
What are you? You some kid of alien? I once saw a movie with an alien that looked like a human. It was scary as hell.
Ilias
I'm not an alien either.
Ellen
It doesn't matter, you're pretty.
Ilias blushed.
Ilias
But you, you're not like the humans I heard about.
Ellen
What did you hear?
Ilias
That you guys are monsters.
Ellen
Some of us are, I won't lie. Not all though. Who told you that though?
Ilias
My dad.
Ellen
He's wrong, you know. He probably had his heart broken or something.
Ilias
I think he did. Mom told me his mom was killed by humans.
Ellen covered her mouth in terror.
Ellen
Oh that's terrible! I'm not surprised he hates us if that's the case. Tell him I'm sorry.
Ilias
Sorry? For what?
Ellen
For what humans did to his parents. It's not right, killing, you know? It's a terrible thing.
Ilias
You really mean that?
Ellen
I do. I just hope one day he realizes we're not all the same.
It hit Ilias.
Ilias
You're not all the same. That's it! You're not all the same.
Ellen
Why so excited?
Ilias
Because you're right! If there is one human like you, there must be more!
Stranger
You got it, kid.
Ilias
Thank you so much for helping me.
He grabbed her hand gently.
Ellen
You're welcome.
She kissed him on the forehead.
Ellen
I didn't even mean to help you.
Ilias
I wish I could help you. I wish I knew how to save you.
Ellen
Can you tell your dad to find a cure? Or the doctors?
Ilias was about to cry.
Ilias
I can do that.
Ilias disappeared. When he got his focus back he screamed.
Ilias
Why did you take me away from her?
Stranger
So you wouldn't lie to her again. I brought you to her to learn a lesson, not to lie to her.
Ilias
Lesson learned! That how you teach thirteen year old boys lessons?
Stranger
I have my methods.
Ilias
Is one of those methods madness, by any chance?
Stranger
Perhaps it is, idiot boy! But what you've learned today can not be undone. There are more of her like that out there. Many sick, many okay, but all good humans. They're not all the same.
Ilias
I've realized.
Stranger
So what have you learned today, foolish boy?
Ilias
That my father is a liar.
Stranger
Excellent. I don't think I need to kill you now.
Ilias
What can we do to change things?
Stranger
Excuse me?
Ilias
What can we do to change the world? To make humans good? To make them love each other?
Stranger
Wow, I wasn't expecting this until our next encounter. Well, Ilias, that I'll explain another day.
Ilias
Where are you going?
Stranger
Home.
Ilias
Where do you live? May I come?
Stranger
I live in another world. Maybe one day, Ilias, maybe one day.
Ilias
Who are you?
Something came into view in front of him and his eyes grew wide.
Stranger
My name is Fallen, the Fox.

Fallen
I went with another way.
Unknown voice
So I've seen. Do you enjoy disobeying me, Fallen?
Fallen
No, my lord, I do not.
Unknown
Do not forget who created you and Luna.
Fallen
I have not, Lord.
Unknown
Good. Return to him tomorrow, if this is the way it's going to be, then from there explain our plans.
Fallen
Already, my lord? Should I divulge all there is to know about the Sky Walkers?
Unknown
Yes, I think it is safe. He is with us, without a doubt.
Fallen
Very well, my lord.
Unknown
As you were, sly fox.

Ilias
Don't you think father could be wrong?
Iris was combing her hair in front of her mirror.
Iris
No, I don't think father can be wrong.
Ilias
But what if he is?
Iris
He isn't. Why are you going on about this anyways?
Ilias
Because I don't think father has been telling us the truth.
Iris stopped combing her hair.
Ilias
What if everything they've told us is a lie? What if none of it's true?
Iris
What are you saying?
Ilias
I'm saying not all humans are vile creatures that are far from saving.
Iris
That can't be, Ilias. Dad would never lie to us. You need to get some sleep.
Ilias
You don't understand.
Iris
No, brother, you don't understand. Whatever you've been thinking, whatever lies you've been fed, you need to cleanse yourself of them.
Ilias
Cleanse myself?
Iris
Yes, cleanse yourself of them. The process will lead you back to where you belong.
Ilias
She's not a liar!
Ilias yelled out. Iris turned around.
Iris
Who isn't a liar and why are you yelling?
Ilias
Never mind.
Iris
You really do need some sleep, brother.
Ilias
What I need is for you to understand, but seeing how you won't, I'm out of here.

Ilias
That's the plan?
Fallen
Yes, do you like it?
Ilias
It's brilliant.
Fallen
I'm glad you think so. Now you just have to work on planting these seeds into your father.
Ilias
I can do that. It will take years though.
Fallen
That's fine, we have time.
Ilias
We? As in you and I, or someone else?
Fallen
Someone else. My master.
Ilias
Will I be able to meet him one day?
Fallen
Soon, my friend, soon.
Ilias
One last thing, do these Sky Walkers you spoke of truly exist?
Fallen laughed.
Fallen
Do any of us?

5 years ago......
Ximendos and Ilias sat at a desk working on a project.
Ilias
I like these, dad.
Ximendos was finishing painting the ship in the bottle on the desk.
Ximendos
I'm glad you do.
Ilias
Is it time to raise the sail?
Ximendos
Hold on, Ilias. You're always in a rush.
Ilias
I guess. Hey dad,
Ximendos looked over at him.
Ilias
Have you ever thought of being king of the humans?
Ximendos stopped painting.
Ilias
Like making it so you rule over them?
Ximendos
Once or twice.
Ilias
Why haven't you done it? With your power they'd be at your knees.
Ximendos
A treaty I made with my brother and sister, as I've told you, keeps me from doing so.
Ilias
Oh yes, that blasted treaty. So if that was out of the way, you'd be able to rule the world?
Ximendos
Theoretically.
Ilias
Can I tell you about a plan I have?
Ximendos
Yes, yes you can.
Ilias
It's called the Cleansing Process and it involves your empire, the Solace Empire.
Ilias explained to Ximendos the Cleansing Process and the structure of the Empire.
Ximendos
I love it. I'll let you get started on that immediately, should we ever have the chance. Now, however, let's raise this sail.
Ilias grabbed the front of the little rope and his dad the back.
Ximendos
Now be gentle, Ilias. These things are a lot like all living creatures.
Ilias looked up at his dad.
Ilias
We're all like ships in a bottle?
Ximendos laughed.
Ximendos
Yes.
Ilias
How? How am I like this hard bottle and the fragile ship inside?
Ximendos punched Ilias gently on the arm.
Ximendos
Hard on the outside.
He placed the point of his finger on his chest.
Ximendos
Fragile inside.
With his finger he moved it into the shape of a heart.
Ximendos
Built with heart and love.
He kissed him on the forehead. Ilias pulled the string. Ilias noticed he did this without his dad.
Ilias
Sorry dad.
He rested his head on Ilias' head.
Ximendos
It's okay, I already have my ship in his bottle.
Ximendos wiped his right eye.
Ximendos
I pulled the string a long time ago.
Ilias laughed.
Ilias
Are you crying dad? Is it because I'm your ship in a bottle?
Ximendos laughed.
Ximendos
Just don't tell your sister.
Ilias
I won't, dad. I won't ever forget this.
Ilias put this in his head as his favorite moment with his father.

Fallen
He bought it?
Ilias
Yes.
He said sadly.
Fallen
What's wrong?
Ilias
Nothing.
Fallen
Are you sending out people for the first Sky Walker?
Ilias
In due time.
Fallen
Remember, we might be wrong about this one. Things don't always go as planned.
Ilias
We shall see.

Ilias
And you are?
Velis entered the main hall of their house.
Velis
My name is Velis, I work for your mother.
Ilias
I am Ilias.
Velis
I know you are.
Ilias
Hey, I might need you for something in the near future, would you mind?
Velis
Not at all.
Ilias
I'll let you know when.

5 years later......
Malic
What the hell are we doing here?
Velis
I'm not entirely sure. Ilias said we're on a try out for a new member.
5 minutes earlier...
Ilias
You will all drop her off at her house as soon as possible. Carmen, once you're home you will enter and speak with your son normally. After that, well after that you will light a cigarette.
They all looked into his grey eyes and just nodded.
Carmen
Yes, sir.
They drove off. Ilias walked back to the police car. The police officer sat silently in the car.
Ilias
Thanks again for the ride.
Ilias walked away.
Malic
So you turned the gas on?
Velis
Yup, the entire thing.
Malic
Damn, that's going to be one hell of an explosion.
Velis
It certainly will be. No one will survive.
The house blew up. Velis and Malic searched the ruins and found Cameron's body.
Velis
It's a boy! It's a little fucking kid!


Ilias
I don't see why the house had to explode.
Fallen
It doesn't matter.
Ilias
It will if he ever finds out. His little brother and mother died in that explosion.
Fallen
Collateral damage.
Ilias
Yes but if he finds out, we'll have to deal with him. He'll want my head as well as Malic and Velis'. He'll make war on the people that we were today.
Fallen
You'll deal with it when it happens. If Cameron makes war, well you'll just push right back. Unless he's a sky walker, you won't have much to worry about.
Ilias
I suppose.

4 years later...
Ilias
Hello, brother.
Cameron
I thought I told you not to call me that.
Ilias
It's habit.
Cameron
We've only known each other for 6 months.
Ilias
Get over it, Cameron. Anyways, I wanted to talk to you about something important.
Cameron
And what is that? I'm kinda busy here.
Ilias
What is your opinion on humans?
Cameron
What kind of question is that?
Ilias
A serious one, I think.
He scratched his head.
Cameron
If they're a lot like my mother, I want them dead. No, wait, to be honest, I want them all dead. Yeah, that's it.
Ilias
That sounds diabolical.
Cameron
Is that all?
Ilias
Would you ever be willing to work with me, as partners?
Cameron
I don't think so. I work alone and if anything, not with brothers that were chosen for me.
Ilias
Will you ever get over that?
Cameron
Not anytime soon. I don't think I'll ever be able to forgive you for that, despite it not being entirely your fault.
Ilias
It's because you lost your brother and they tried to fill that gap with me, isn't it?
Cameron
You can say that.
Ilias
If it means anything, anything at all, know that I do care about you, Cameron. If the time comes and you're ready to forgive me, well I'll be here. Remember Cameron, life goes on.
Cameron
Yeah, without him.
Cameron's whole body turned into flames.
Ilias
Calm yourself, you're burning the tile.
His flames extinguished.
Ilias
We can be friends, you know.
Cameron
I've had one friend in my life, I don't need another. I don't need another brother either. To put it bluntly, get the fuck out of my face you snotty nosed rich kid.
Ilias
You'll eat your words one day.
Ilias turned to walk.
Ilias
Cameron, you are a fool.
Ilias stuck his hand in his pocket. In it was a ship in a bottle like the one his dad made him before except this one hadn't been raised yet.
Ilias
All I wanted was a friend.
Ilias smashed the bottle on the floor.
Ilias
And that's the last time I'll ever attempt to have one.
He stormed off.

Fallen
How did it go?
Ilias
He won't be joining us, ever. Bit of a little bitch, that one is.
Fallen yawned.
Fallen
I'm not surprised. Any any rate, things are going well.
Ilias
I'm happy to hear that. Fallen, how will we get my father killed?
Fallen
Well, that task will be up to you, myself, or someone else. We don't have to think about that for a long time though.
Ilias
I know, it's just that if we go with this plan, he will gain supporters.
Fallen
I know, but they won't be too much of a problem.
Ilias
How powerful are you?
Fallen
You'll find out one day.
He yawned again.
Fallen
Why are you even worried about these things?
Ilias
Curiosity.

Present times...

Ilias tells Fallen about Gemma...

Fallen
You're going to marry her? It's a joke, right?
Ilias
Not at all. It will make things easier for when we extract the half dead from her. So long as she trusts me, we'll get it done quickly.
Fallen
Why wouldn't she? You'll be her husband!
Fallen laughed.



Before Orthak capture Suri and battled the Syn clan...
Fallen
He's going to capture the girl?
Ilias
Yes, and when he does he'll use her image to find Arkain.
Fallen
And then?
Ilias
I want you to use the Syn clan to battle him. I want them to figure out a way to kill Orthak.
Fallen
And if they don't?
Ilias
Well hopefully a few of them die as well. It'll work out, Fallen.
Fallen
It's nice to see you taking the lead now.
Ilias
It was always what was going to happen.

Before Fallen releases the Syn Clan

Ilias
Looks like Cameron is back, as planned.
Fallen
I gave him the power you wanted me to give him.
Ilias
Excellent. Now he will form a team and we'll move them towards us ever so slowly.
Fallen
I love it. Was Hayden too much trouble?
Ilias
No. He got a kick in on me but that's about it. I'm annoyed with that one.
Fallen
He'll be ours eventually.
Ilias
Well, you should be on your way to releasing the Syn clan now.
Fallen
Yep, all ready with my fake death as well.
They laughed.

Before Ilias hung Arkain on the cross...
Fallen
What will you do to him?
Ilias
Torture him. If he is a Sky Walker, Arkain must show us his power. I will see if I can kill him through normal means.
Fallen
A little harsh, no?
Ilias
These are harsh times.

After the attempt on Nicholas' life...
Ilias
Amya is ours. We didn't get Nicholas but we got something better eventually.
Fallen
Arkain.
Ilias
How did Amros and Hayden take it?
Fallen
Devastated. Worst of all, Suri, Hayden's daughter, was broken. She loves him, ya know?
Ilias
How pathetic. Eh, we'll use that to our advantage one day.
Fallen
Make him do what we will or we'll kill her.
Ilias
My thoughts exactly.

After Empire emerges...
Ximendos hugged Ilias.
Ximendos
Thank you, my son, for all of this. Thank you for orchestrating this.
Ilias
No problem, dad. It really was all I wanted for you.

Ten minutes before Gemma first released...
Jake
Who the fuck are you?
Jake said in front of an old kid while he was getting the ball from the back closest.
Ilias
You can call me master.
Jake looked into Ilias' eyes.
Jake
Master...
Ilias put the ball in his hands.
Ilias
Make sure you hit her directly in the face.
Jake
I won't miss.
Ilias
That's a good boy.

5 minutes before Gemma released...
Layla and Sarah were leaving school grounds.
Layla
Where did you park?
Sarah
In the 2nd row. I didn't- Oh well hello hottie!
Layla
Sarah!
Layla pushed her.
Layla
Sorry about that, are you here to pick up someone?
Ilias
No, I'm here for you.
Sarah
Okay, that's not weird at all. I got this.
Sarah pulled out pepper spray.
Sarah
Listen asshole, get out of our way or I'll spray. I have twenty minutes left of my break and I want to get a damn good meal before it ends. Move.
Ilias
Shut up.
Sarah stopped talking.
Ilias
Go back to the playground and do your after school work.
Sarah
Yes, sir.
Sarah turned around and walked away.
Layla
What the hell?
Ilias
You are the mother of Arkain, correct?
Layla was scared now.
Layla
Yes, how do you know that? Do you go to school with him?
Ilias
No, I do not. I am a future friend of his.
Layla
Oh, well, I that's nice. Anyways, I have to go, so let's just walk away from here.
Ilias
You won't be going anywhere today. Mrs. West, today you die so Arkain can finally live.
Layla was now terrified.
Layla
Just what the fuck are you talking about?
Ilias
Your son, he's going to save the world.
Layla began to cry.
Layla
What are you talking about?
Fallen appeared on the car next to Layla.
Fallen
Aw, you're making her cry.
She screamed. A talking fox, she thought.
Ilias
Close your mouth.
Layla closed her mouth.
Fallen
Are we good to go here?
Ilias
Almost. We just need this last piece.
Fallen
Well, send her off. That boy is already moving to talk to Gemma.
Ilias
I see. Very well, Layla, go back to your work inside the school with Sarah.
Layla turned around.
Layla
Yes, master.
Fallen jumped onto the floor.
Fallen
All set.
Ilias
It's been so long, and now it finally begins.
Fallen
Shall we watch?
Ilias
Yes.
They walked over to watch Gemma and Jake talk. Jake threw the ball at her face.
Fallen
Now's my part.
Ilias
Good, go.
Fallen disappeared.
Ilias
Chaos! It's all chaos!
He laughed as the entire school was consumed by Gemma's darkness.

Hours after Gemma killed the school...
Iris
What's this?
Iris said looking at his ship in a bottle.
Ilias
It's a ship in a bottle.
Iris looked closely at it.
Iris
How did you do it? How did you get it into this wine bottle?
Ilias
(If she knew, she'd be with me forever.)
Ilias grabbed her hand.
Ilias
If you knew how it worked, you'd have to grow old.
Iris
What's that supposed to mean?
Ilias
It would mean if I built one for you, showed you how to build it, you're soul would go into it.
Iris
Ilias, that's nonsense.
Ilias
I don't mean a soul in the religious sense. What I mean by it is just who you are.
She kissed him on the cheek.
Iris
I love you, Ilias.
She left the room.
Ilias
Iris, you shouldn't love what is impossible. If you knew who I was, if you knew I built this ship in a wine bottle, you would never have the privilege to grow old. You'd be dead now.
He sat in his chair with the ship in a bottle. The sky rumbled outside. He thought back to the day after he had met Fallen.
Fallen
You can't go back to see her.
Ilias
Why not? I want to see Ellen again.
Fallen
She died last night. Ellen is dead, Ilias.
His eyes glowed silver. It was then Ilias knew he was doing the right thing.