Ximendos stood before two entwined trees.
Ximendos
This is it.
Akasha
Are you sure?
Ximendos
How could I ever forget?
They all stood there silently.
Pathion
Well, what are we waiting for?
Nick
Did you feel that?
Vesper
Yes. Dark, dark power.
Nick jumped down the rocks.
Vesper
Where are you going?
Nick
To check it out!
Vesper
But we just got out of danger's way!
Vesper jumped down next to him.
Vesper
You can't be serious. Nick, I need you to be reasonable.
Nick
Arkain and Cameron are still here!
Vesper
I know, but we must turn back. You can't help them if you're dead.
Nick didn't respond.
Vesper
If we regroup with your friends, maybe we can save them. It's the only possible way. Alone, you and I cannot do this.
Nick turned around.
Nick
Then we find the others and we come back.
Vesper
Deal.
Malic
What about me?
Malic stood behind them.
Malic
You almost left me back there!
Vesper
My apologies, Malic, but I had no choice.
Malic
Well, I'm sticking with you guys now.
The fire went out after a few moments and Velis was gone. Forever.
Arkain
Cameron, no.
Arkain said softly.
Cameron
He's gone.
Cameron stood up.
Cameron
And so is she. Where's Malic? Where is your father?
Ilias
I do not know.
Cameron
I figured as much.
Arkain began to get up.
Cameron
I was a fool.
He turned to Ilias.
Cameron
I forgot the weight memories hold. I let it slip, the power they carry over me.
He then turned to Arkain. His black wings flowed through the darkness as the sun began to rise.
Cameron
And most of all, I fell for a lie of a life with a purpose. That's not possible now.
Cameron looked down to the ground.
Cameron
Not for me, at least.
He began to walk towards Arkain.
Ilias
I'm sorry, for all of this. I know my apology cannot undo what has happened, but I feel it must be said. My father will pay for what he has done to you, for what he has done to everyone.
Cameron lifted his hand.
Cameron
I'll see to that. Now as for your apology, save it, I know it's empty.
He knelt down next to Arkain.
Arkain
Cameron.
Cameron
Quiet, brother.
He brushed the dirt off his shoulder.
Cameron
I'm sorry for that. My anger got the best of me, and to be honest, it still does. I'm sorry. You gave me a lie, and I took it. Now, I can't see that as functional to my life. Arkain, I'm leaving.
He stood up.
Cameron
For good.
Arkain
It doesn't have to be that way.
Cameron
It does. Your path is not my path, and I must come to terms with that.
Arkain
What about your brother? What about his promise?
Cameron
I told you, you know nothing about that. Allow me to fulfill that in my own way. You walk away, on yours, and I'll walk away on my own.
He stretched out his arm and offer Arkain a hand.
Cameron
Thank you, for all you've done till now. I regret, and this will always be my one regret, that we could not face this journey together.
Arkain
We can! Cameron, think!
Cameron
You are my only friend, Arkain.
Arkain grabbed his hand.
Cameron
I hope to see you again someday.
He lifted him to his feet.
Cameron
You are a person I love, and I will do what I can always to protect you.
Arkain
So stay!
Cameron
Goodbye.
Ilias
Wait, please reconsider!
Cameron
I'm done considering all but my own feelings.
Ilias
What about your father? He'll be here later today.
Cameron hugged Arkain.
Cameron
I hope when we meet again, we're still friends.
Arkain
We will be. I promise.
Cameron
Another promise, Arkain. You've made many. I promise too. I hope it can be kept on both parts.
Arkain
It will be.
Cameron released him.
Cameron
With Velis out of the picture, I have no purpose here.
He turned to Ilias.
Cameron
I never needed a father.
With a burst of flames, he was gone.
Ilias
Well that was uncalled for.
Arkain
I don't even know what just happened.
Arkain scratched his head.
Ilias
Cameron has released his powers and he has abandoned us.
Arkain
Us?
Ilias
I think it is clear, now, that you should join us. Suri will be most pleased with it.
Fallen
We aren't your enemy, Arkain.
Arkain
Says that fox that just kicked my ass.
Fallen laughed.
Ilias
Our medical team will assist you with any pain you have. Now, will you join us?
Arkain hesitated.
Arkain
I want to see her.
Ilias
Right this way.
He motioned for the palace.
Suri opened her eyes. Arkain's face entered her sight.
Suri
Arkain? Arkain!
After her vision became clear she jumped up and wrapped her arms around him.
Arkain
Suri!
They held each other for almost two minutes with nothing but silence. She moved back after.
Suri
It's been awhile, bright eyes.
She set her hand on his thigh.
Arkain
I know. Way too long! I'm just glad we're back together!
An hour passed and they filled each other in on all that happened. They were exited, sad, and even happy.
Suri
I knew you'd make it. I told the others you'd be okay.
Arkain
I had you to think about. No one knew, but it was you that kept me going.
He kissed her.
Arkain
The empire couldn't stop us.
She nodded.
Suri
It's so weird, don't you think?
Arkain looked confused.
Arkain
What is?
Suri
We barely know each other. I don't even know your favorite color-
Arkain
Purple.
Suri
I know, but what I mean is, I barely know you, and I love you.
He moved her hair out of her face.
Arkain
We know each other just about enough to say it. I love you.
The door opened. Conor, Emmylou, and Ian entered.
Conor
Well look at the lovebirds!
Arkain stood up.
Arkain
Hey, Conor.
Arkain stuck out his hand. Conor hugged him.
Conor
The guy that saved my life deserves hugs, not handshakes!
They all laughed.
Conor
This is Emmylou, my girlfriend.
Arkain
Pleasure.
They shook hands.
Emmylou
I've heard so much about you.
Arkain
From people that barely know me?
He winked at Suri.
Emmylou
This is my brother Ian.
Arkain
Nice to meet you, little guy.
Ian
Nice to meet you too.
Arkain
So Suri has told me all you've been through. I want to apologize for it all, you didn't deserve any of it.
Conor
You don't owe us anything.
Emmylou
Yeah, it's not your fault.
Suri
It's Ilias'.
She stood up. They all looked at her.
Suri
Arkain has told me Ilias has planned most of this from the start. If it's anyone's fault, it's his.
Arkain
And the empire. I'd say Ilias is less dangerous than the empire.
Conor
I don't know man, a wolf in sheep clothing is more scary to me. Don't know when he's going to eat you.
Emmylou
So what do we do?
There was a moment of silence before Arkain spoke.
Arkain
We stay here.
There was no protest.
Arkain
Despite Ilias being the author of most our troubles, he's the best ally we have right now.
Conor
What about that White Coats!?
Arkain
They're just as untrustworthy!
He would not tell them why he thought so.
Arkain
It doesn't matter now. They're not our enemy, but they're not our allies. If anything, Ilias' has the strongest force now for war.
Conor
War against who? If the White Coats aren't a problem, what war is there to be had?
Arkain
Something about Sky Walkers and elf. A triple sided war.
Emmylou
Sky Walker?
He explained to them what they were and that he was one.
Conor
I knew you were special! Suri knew too! Fuck yes, we were right!
Emmylou
That's incredible!
Suri
He's one hell of a guy.
Arkain blushed.
Suri
So it's settled, we stay.
Arkain
We stay. One more thing.
They all listened closely.
Arkain
Ian, earmuffs.
Ian covered his ears along with Emmylou's hands over his own.
Arkain
Ilias said we have three years before war comes to us. He said, and I want to quote him on this so you don't think these are my words.
Suri
Out with it!
Arkain
He said that we should all have a kid in that time.
Suri, Conor, Emmylou
WHAT?!
Fallen
It all worked out, just like you planned.
Fallen lied on the table with Luna on top of him. Around the table sat Ilias, Darby, Amya, and the Four Winds.
Ilias
As expected. If there is one thing Cameron is, he's predictable. Amya, what happened on your end?
Amya lowered her head as she spoke.
Amya
I was defeated, and Forest abandoned us, as you predicted.
Ilias
Very good. Next time, however, I want you to use your full strength against them. You're one of the holy three, or have you forgotten?
Amya
I have not. Forgive me, next time I shall be victorious.
Ilias
Good. I'd like to inform you all that Iris is dead. I have disposed of my sister. With her out of the way things are going as planned.
The entire table smiled at this victory.
Renn
Lord Rylan arrives later today.
Ilias
I am aware. See to it that he is met with the warmest of welcomes, Luna.
Luna
Will you not be here?
Ilias
No, I must attend to our problem of Gemma's abduction. Fallen, you will stay behind to inform Rylan of all that has happened. Darby, Four Winds, you will be going with me. My ship is being prepared and we will leave right away.
Fallen
I'll also see to the children. Lord knows we want them to be comfortable or else they'll riot.
Ilias
Speaking of which, I was informed that you used a sleeping powder on them, Renn, is this true?
Renn nodded.
Renn
Darby insisted on them not being hurt.
Darby nodded in approval.
Ilias
Good. You did well. The last thing we need is abuse to be added to their list of complaints.
He stood up.
Ilias
Our trip will also be long because of other commitments I have.
Fallen
What ever do you mean?
Ilias
I must meet with my parents.
Fallen
What, why?
Ilias
They're probably worried sick about me.
He chuckled.
Ilias
I also have a funeral to attend.
Cash
The murderer at the funeral? How poetic.
Luck
It's sick, really.
Fallen
What purpose will this serve?
Ilias
To show my father I am still with the empire, but most of all, I have to kick a dog while it's down.
Nick, Vesper, and Malic appeared through leaves before Roselyn and Grey.
Roselyn
Welcome back!
Nick
Hi guys. This is Vesper and this is Malic.
Roselyn and Grey shook hands with them.
Roselyn
I've met Malic before.
She gave him a funny look then looked at Vesper.
Roselyn
You are one of the Syn Clan, correct?
Vesper
Was, as we are no more.
Grey
I'll count that as a good thing.
Amros
I will as well. Welcome, Vesper of the Sea, and Malic the Silver Serpent.
Amros and Hayden were walking up the hill.
Hayden
Where are the others?
Vesper
Syn and Pathion with Ximendos, Darby with Ilias. Tusa, well, he fell to your hands.
Hayden
I won't apologize for it, but know it was nothing personal.
Vesper
All is well. He was a good friend, but war is war.
Amros
We must thank Darby. He has slayed Orthak.
Everyone made noises of excitement.
Hayden
Although Ximendos has grown in power, the loss of Orthak is a tremendous win for all enemies of his.
Kegan
Party without us?
Kegan and Supriya walked up the hill now.
Supriya
I didn't even wear a proper dress.
They laughed. For once, things were good.
Ximendos, Akasha, Syn, and Pathion were surrounded. Ten elf warriors had arrows pointed at them. A female elf spoke.
Elf
I am Seex, Guardian of these lands. You have set foot into the realm of the Lady. What business do you have in Oleandria?
Ximendos
The lady?
Seex
Yes, Queen Hellia, Queen of these lands.
Ximendos
My wife.
The elves lowered their bows.
Seex
Lord Godlin?
They all bowed.
Akasha
My gosh.
She said with a whisper.
Ximendos
Rise, my children.
They all stood slowly.
Ximendos
Take me to my palace.
Padraic stood on the balcony of his palace. From a distance he could see flashes of light from battles being waged.
Padraic
Not too long now. Three more years time, if I am correct.
Shirok rose from the ground next to him. He was in the shape of Arcail.
Shirok
My lord, they are pulling back on the western front.
Padraic
Good. And the others?
Shirok
They're holding.
Padraic sighed.
Padraic
Oh well. Islam!
On the edge of the balcony a swirl of black smoke formed a little boy with black hair and a small suit.
Islam
Yes, my lord?
Padraic
I am going out. I want you to watch the palace.
Islam
As you wish, my lord.
He bowed and disappeared.
Shirok
Shall I join you?
Padraic
No, not this time. We will be fine on our own.
Shirok
You're doing that already?
Padraic nodded.
Padraic
They're moving quickly, so I should as well. Take care of Mara while I'm gone.
He flew into the sky.
Seven
My lord, Padraic is here.
Arienette motioned for him to enter. The doors opened and Padraic came in.
Padraic
Good morning, sister, how are you?
Arienette
I am well, and you?
Padraic
Same as always. Any news on the battlefront?
Seven
They have wavered a little but not substantially, Lord Padraic.
Arienette
Did we have a meeting today?
Padraic
Not quite. I wanted to come and ask you for a favor.
Arienette
A favor? What ever could you want? Have I not given you enough?
Padraic
Permission to pass through the portal.
Arienette
For what purpose?
Padraic
To retrieve a very important piece to our puzzle. Aside from the large entrance Rylan's land, you yourself hold a very small portal to the other world. I need it. I need that piece.
Arienette
Another? I thought you said you only needed that one, all those many years ago.
Padraic
I thought I did. This one is, how should I put it, a bit of the same kind. Together they will be complete. There is one more but it is out of reach. Now is the best time to claim this one.
Arienette
And if we don't get it?
Padraic
We risk it falling into the hands of the wrong person.
Arienette
Like?
Padraic
Rylan.
Ilias
We should be there in no time.
He said as the ship flew to their destination.
Darby
And the plan is utter destruction?
Ilias
Yes, I have no reason for prisoners. Whomever it is that interfered with our plans is already dead.
Darby
I have quarrels with that. And what of Cameron?
Ilias
What's important is that his power has been released. I'll let him wander around until I need him.
Darby
Is that wise?
Ilias
No one can interfere now.
Darby
Very well.
Arkain sat on the bed. Suri had told him one more thing.
Arkain
I still can't believe it. The last time I saw him was when Orthak first attacked.
Suri
He went out fighting, I think we can focus on that. He was a brave man.
Emmylou
Really brave. When dragons flew down on us he stood and fought!
Conor
If only he had come with us. Still, he went out with a bang!
Arkain
You guys are right. Mr. Romberg was a great man. Now we'll fight with him in our memories.
Emmylou
And my moms.
They all agreed.
Arkain
For everyone!
Hellia
My husband!
Hellia moved down the stairs. Her red dress flowed over the steps, as well as her long black hair.
The entire room was filled with elf kind. Ximendos walked forward and the others stayed put.
Hellia
We've waited so long for you!
He walked past Helen to the top of the steps, before the throne.
Ximendos
This is it.
He slowly turned around.
Ximendos
My people, my friends, my loyal followers, I am home.
A burst of cheers broke the silence. He raised his hand.
Ximendos
Know today, I am Godlin, but most of all, I am Ximendos.
They were silent. Small talks broke out between elves.
Ximendos
I am Ximendos, champion of Godlin, your new king.
They roared in protest.
Ximendos
Silence! If anyone wishes to challenge me on that, you can make the first move.
They were silent again.
Kon
I'm fine with that.
Kon stood with two elves, one female and the other male, directly behind him at the door way.
Kon
So you're the reason why my brother has been gone all these years.
The entire crowd was now focused on Kon.
Kon
Relax, my elf brothers and sisters, I have not come here to do battle with our king. Our land is in a time of war, there is no need now for a new King. I have no interest in the throne.
Hellia
You already lost your land to Queen Circa! Get out!
Kon
I just got here, so I think I'll stay. Besides, I've helped keep these borders safe for so long since my dear brother has been gone. I am entitled to his presence as much as you all are. And how dare you bring up the loss of Kesladon to me, Queen Hellia. When I lost most of the support of these lands I could not hold off Queen Circa's armies! Had you been able to keep your husbands kingdom together-
Hellia
Do not lecture me on kingdom keeping, lost King!
Helen returned to the top and sat at the throne next to Ximendos'.
Hellia
He's all yours. Kon the deceitful speaks.
Ximendos
Have you come to welcome me home, brother?
Kon placed his index finger on his lip.
Kon
Maybe. I tell you, Daskil and Nespa behind me did not come for battle, as I've said.
Kon moved forward. He stopped next to Akasha, Syn, and Pathion.
Kon
And whom might you be?
He looked at them and then to Ximendos.
Kon
They are not human, nor elf, and certainly not Sky Walker. What are you?
He looked into Akasha's eyes.
Ximendos
They are a whole new species. Just as I am. I have just returned home, make your reasons known or leave.
Kon
Relax, older brother. By law of the land we are to accept you as the new king because you championed my brother. Normally we could remove you, but seeing how you hold the essence of my brother, we are forced to recognize you as king. So be kind to my presence, as I am forced to be to yours.
Kon was now at the steps.
Kon
My reason for being here is partly to welcome you, but also to ask you one question.
Ximendos
Yes?
Kon
Are you ready for war with Caldinar?
Ximendos
I am. Are you ready for a war with the human world and the Sky Walker?
Kon
I am.
Kon smiled.
Kassle sat at the throne with Kade beside him.
Kassle
Can I help you, mother?
Azusa stood across from them with Keir on her shoulder.
Azusa
You can start by getting off my chair! You have no respect!
Kassle
You no longer rule us. I thought that was clear.
Azusa
Not clear enough! Just who do you think you are?
Kassle stood up.
Kassle
I am Kassle of the Christ family. First born son, and now leader.
Kade took a step forward.
Kade
You best watch your tongue now, mother.
Keir growled.
Keir
Don't you threaten your mother!
Kade
Shut up dad, you pussy!
Kassle
Have you come to do battle with me?
Kade
Us!
Azusa
I have! Your reign ends now. I hope you've enjoyed your fifteen minutes.
Kassle
Foolish mother, you were never fit to rule us.
Azusa
Fuck you, you-
Keir yelped and stopped her mid-sentence. She looked to him and saw what looked like the front of a black sword sticking through him.
Azusa
What did you do?
Kassle
That is not my magic.
Suddenly he was sucked into the blackness of the sword.
Azusa
KEIR!!!!
She jumped back.
Kassle
We're under attack!
Queen Circa sat on her throne in her white throne room lined with gold. She was beautiful, with bright white skin and long blonde hair. Her blue eyes would pierce those that dared face her.
Circa
What news for me do you posses, Aristo?
Aristo walked into the throne room and shut the door behind him. He was a tall elf with short brown hair. He walked quickly to her throne and knelt before her.
Aristo
My queen.
Circa
Speak.
Aristo
Lord Godlin has returned.
Darby stood on the lowered hanger under the ship. He held his arm forward with his sword pointing toward the sky. It was stretched out far.
Darby
One down.
The Four Wind walked behind him.
Gwen
Leave some for us!
Renn
Go!
They each drew their swords and flew forward. The Christ Palace appeared. They crashed into it.
Ilias
Found you.
He folded his fingers in front of his face.
Azusa
What the hell is going on!
Kade
Shut up and do something!
Azusa
Like what?
Kade
Start fighting!
Kassle
No, Kade, we are not fighting.
Kade
But we're under attack!
Kassle
Yes, but we aren't their enemy.
They disappeared. The castle continued to be destroyed by the Four Winds.
Ilias
Hello again, Kassle and Kade.
Kassle bowed and Kade followed.
Kassle
We are not your enemy.
Ilias
And why should I believe that? You stole my wife.
Kassle
We didn't, our brothers did.
Ilias
And shall I punish you for their wrongdoing?
Kade
I'd like it if you didn't.
Kassle
No.
Kassle snapped his fingers. A white ball of energy appeared between them and Ilias.
Kassle
I return it to you with no protest.
Ilias
That easy? I figured you'd put up a fight.
Kassle stood up straight.
Kassle
No, Ilias, we do not wish to fight. We aren't your enemy. We are your allies.
Ilias
Excuse me?
Kassle
The Christ Family, my brother Kade and I, are willing to join you if you'll have us.
Ilias rubbed his chin.
Ilias
What about the rest of your family? Your mother and brothers?
Kassle
If you'll have my brothers-
Ilias
I won't.
Kassle
Well, please spare their lives, if anything.
Ilias
I'll think about it. And of your mother?
Kassle
Kill her. As the new leader of our family, she has lost her purpose.
Ilias
I like that. Very well, welcome to the Cloud.
He smiled widely. The palace fired canons but it was hopeless.
Azusa
I'm losing my palace! My sons, help me!
Munro and Germ stood on the surface directly below the palace.
Munro
We've been betrayed.
Germ
Kassle is no longer someone we can trust.
Munro
What a shame.
Germ
It doesn't matter. I guess we'll have to find Ximendos.
Munro
It's our only option. Lucifer!
Lucifer appeared before them.
Munro
Find Ximendos for us.
Germ got up off the bed.
Munro
Should we help mother?
Germ
No, I think it's best that we don't. Let her deal with this mess. This castle is no longer of use to us.
Munro
Well then, let's go.
They disappeared.
Azusa
I will not be defeated!
Azusa turned the palace into a stone warrior. It attacked the ship, the ship barely dodged it.
Ilias
She's quite the fighter.
They watched as the castle tried to flee.
Ilias
Darby, kill her.
The ship flew above the palace and Darby dropped on top of it.
Azusa
Someone landed!
She blasted pink energy wave around her that shot outside of the ship at Darby, but it was stopped by his sword expanding.
Darby
Pathetic.
Darby's sword extended like never before. It expanded in all directions until it covered the entire castle.
Azusa
You cannot kill me!
Darby
By the order of Ilias, leader of The Cloud, this castle is no more.
Azusa
No!
The sword sucked everything in. The sun had fully risen.
Below the sun stood a burning forest. Below it there was melting snow. Cameron walked slowing through the snow and all behind him burned. He was on the brink of collapsing.
Cameron
Christian.
He fell to the ground unconscious.
