Chapter Sixty-Eight: What We Left Behind

Malic
Are you serious?
Malic rolled his head to the side.
Malic
You're serious.
He took a breath.
Malic
Just great, I had to be left behind.
He held his breath. Four silver cords burst from the bottom of his neck. He picked himself up like a spider.
Malic
Let's go find the others.

Iris
What's the situation?
General
They've lost almost their entire fleet.
Iris
That's good news.
General
Also, on approach is another dragon.
Iris' eyes shot open.
Iris
What color is it?
The general clicked a few buttons on the keyboard in front of him and a white dragon came onto the screen flying towards the palace.
Iris
Ayn...


Airship's AI
Destination will be reached in ten minutes.
Ilias
Thank you.
Ilias sat on his chair watching the sky fly by in front of him.
Ilias
(She is going to be an annoyance.)

Nick picked up Steven's book that Munro had dropped.
Roselyn
What's that?
Nick
A book that belonged to my friend.
Roselyn
What's it doing here?
Nick
The empire had it.
After a brief moment of silence Roselyn spoke.
Roselyn
Let's go find the others.


Ayn extended her wings and flew into the nearest group of Gears.
Emmylou
What do we do?
Luciana
We fight!
They fired on at the two dragons to no avail.
Conor
Looks like this is it.
Nicholas
Fall back!
They all rallied to Nicholas' unit.
Nicholas
Conor, take Emmylou and go!
Conor
We can't just fucking leave you guys!
Emmylou
Conor!
Nya turned her gaze on Conor's unit.
Nicholas
Fly, you fools!
Conor and Emmylou ignited their jet packs and took to the sky in retreat.
Emmylou
Stay alive, mom...Nicholas.
Luciana and Nicholas fought with their last three hundred units.


General
Two units have broken off from the pack.
Iris
I noticed.
General
Shall we follow them?
Iris
No, leave them be. I've told Nya to focus on the others. Those two are meaningless.
General
As you wish, my lord.
Iris walked out of the room.
Iris
(Brother sent Ayn to help me. What a kind gift.)


Hayden
What business does the king of the elf have in the realm of the humans?
Hayden and Amros stood down the small steps of stairs from Ximendos and Godlin.
Godlin
My son you haven't changed a bit. What business do I have here? The extermination of the human race is my business.
Hayden
And how is that?
Godlin
To make sure they remain extinct. So when the book is closed we the elf may populate these lands.
Hayden
It looks like you've changed, father. Once I knew an elf of great power that stood in awe at the human race. How gentle they are, so fragile, you used to say. Now you stand before me a predator.
Hayden took one step forward.
Hayden
When did you sell yourself to Ximendos?
Godlin laughed.
Godlin
Your intelligence never fails, my son. It was a long time ago that a young boy by the name of Amron set foot in my palace. His eyes were innocent and his will was unlike one I've ever seen before. One does not sell themselves to this man.
He glanced over at Ximendos.
Godlin
One simply gives themselves over. I am now a soldier of the Solace Empire.
Ximendos clapped his hands together.
Ximendos
You fools are outmatched.
Amros
That doesn't change anything.
Amros turned to Hayden.
Amros
If I'm correct, not even I can fight him.
Hayden nodded.
Hayden
He is my opponent.
Amros nodded.
Amros
Ximendos is mine.
They both looked back at their opponents.
Hayden
I ran away from your kingdom because I killed to save you. I'll destroy that very place after I kill you now, father.
Hayden's voice did not shake.
Godlin
You cannot reenter the world of the elf.
Hayden
You're wrong. Even you should know the laws of Kon.
Ximendos looked at Godlin confused.
Godlin
I almost forgot.
He turned to Ximendos.
Godlin
If he can kill me, he'd gain access to our home world.
Ximendos
What a foolish law.
Hayden
Are you ready?
Godlin nodded.
Hayden
I hope you are aware you are no king here.
Hayden flew forward.


Amya caught her breath.
Amya
(He's so powerful. I'm down to eighty percent of my power.)
Grey landed in front of her.
Grey
Are you done running?
Amya
I was never running.
The sand from all around them rose. Seneca a flew over them and blasted down in the box of sand.

Kegan
(Now!)
The vine attached to his foot vanished. He landed on his feet in the giant jungle.
Supriya
Idiot!
Kegan
I found him! Follow me.
He ran forward as she followed. Merdos and Masato did nothing but cut through the entire jungle.
Kegan
I need to send out a marker for the others.
Supriya
Let me handle that.
Red dust formed in her hand, she blew it out behind her.
Kegan
Very nice.
They continued on. Forest sat down on his wooden throne.
Forest
Come my new friends. I welcome you.

Suri
Why won't you kill me?
Iris
I don't feel like it right now.
She said as she walked in.
Iris
I'll probably end up doing it when brother comes.
Suri
You're pathetic.
Iris
I'm not the one who was defeated, was I?
She laughed.


Arkain
This is too weird.
Cameron
I've seen stranger things happen before.
Arkain
I don't think I'll ever get used to this shit.
Cameron didn't say anything.
Arkain
How long you think we'll really be trapped in here?
Cameron shrugged.
Arkain
I wish Suri was here. Not that I don't like your company, I just haven't seen her in so long.
Cameron
You don't count your encounter with Orthak as one.
He chuckled.
Arkain
No. I haven't told anyone but I miss her a lot.
Cameron
That's cute.
Arkain
Don't make fun of me. I'm serious.
Cameron
I didn't say you weren't and I wasn't making fun of you.
Cameron opened his eyes.
Cameron
You'll see her when this is all over.
Arkain
You think so?
Cameron
Yes, so long as she makes it through this as well.
Arkain
I'm sure she will. She's a strong one. I don't think anyone can kill her.
Cameron
Let's hope you are correct.
Cameron thought of Velis.

Gwen
Who are you?
Gemma stood before the Four Winds.
Gemma
My name is Gemma.
Cash
You are the one that was with Ilias.
Gemma nodded.
Gwen
How precious! Are you and him dating?
Gemma
He's my husband.
Gwen fell on the floor.
Gwen
Oh it's so beautiful!
She got back up and grabbed Gemma by the hand.
Gwen
Oh my, tell me all about it! I want to know how you met, what you first thought about him, the first time you kissed, your first date, how he told you he loved you, when you got married, about the se-
Luck
You're doing that thing again, Gwen.
Gwen turned around.
Gwen
What thing?
Luck
Talking.
Gwen's face became ugly. She turned back to Gemma.
Gwen
They just don't understand. So tell me!
Renn
Leave the girl alone.
Gwen
Fine.
She said in a sad voice. She went and sat by Renn.
Cash
What brings you down the library?
Gemma
I wanted to see some books.
Luck
Be our guest. Ilias has created the greatest library in human history.
Gemma walked past them.
Gwen
I'll talk to you later!

Hayden's fist was caught by Godlin and then he was sent flying by flick of Godlin's hand.
Amros
(That powerful? He sent Hayden flying. This is going to be dangerous.)
Ximendos
It's never too late to run away, Amros.
He smiled.
Amros
Never too late to fly either.
Amros smacked his hands together.
Amros
Prana!
A gust of wind so powerful flew past Amros and sent Ximendos and the buildings behind him flying. Godlin stood his place.
Godlin
I do not fear your wind.
Amros drew his sword and charged Godlin. He swung and Godlin lifted his arm to block it. There was a burst of energy and Amros was sent back.
Ximendos
How amazing!
Ximendos landed next to Godlin.
Ximendos
You two are powerless against him. I should have done this years ago.
Hayden flew by and his feet landed on Godlin's chest. Godlin moved by almost ten feet.
Ximendos
What?
Hayden tried to grab Ximendos but Ximendos ran forward towards a fallen Amros.
Godlin
You are not capable of hurting me.
Hayden swung his arm forward and a blue blast of energy engulfed Godlin.
Ximendos and Amros clashed their swords together. Hayden came up from behind Ximendos.
Ximendos
I don't think so!
A green orb of energy formed around Ximendos and exploded.

Kade jumped back as a silver cord hit the box he had just planted.
Kade
Damn!
Kassle
Looks like our plans are ruined.
Kassle and Kade looked down upon Malic's head.
Malic
Up to no good, were you? Looks like I saved the day.
Kade
It's the silver serpent. More like the brown head, right Kassle?
Kassle nodded.
Malic
Shut your mouth! I'm just in a bit of a bind right now!
Malic shot out a cord at Kassle and Kassle caught it with his right hand.
Kassle
Don't insult me, you filthy head. You are not worth my time.
Kassle disappeared.
Kade
Look, you made him leave! Damn you Malic for ruining our fun.
Kade disappeared.
Malic
I won!


Azusa, Keir, Munro, and Germ all appeared within the base of the humans.
Azusa
Interesting place to hide.
Keir
Not really.
Munro
Can you two ever agree on something?
Germ walked forward.
Germ
There is a significantly different amount of people here.
Germ turned to Munro.
Germ
The humans went to war.
A bright light flashed and blinded them all.
Munro
We've been found!


Ayn and Nya were both hit by rockets from jets.
Nicholas
Reinforcements!
Luciana
We only have six jets and ten helicopters.
The dragons fell to the ground.
Nicholas
Yes but their accuracy is higher than ours. We've been scrambling to get shots that we've missed almost every time.
Nya bit into one jet creating a small explosion. Ayn roared.
Nicholas
To the palace!
The last three hundred units made their way to the castle as the dragons were distracted.

Grey landed on top of Seneca.
Grey
(Die, creature!)
A red beam erupted into Seneca's head. As the giant bird fell to the ground Grey jumped off towards Amya. Amya made a wall of sand to block his impact. Grey burst through it and his energy blasted Amya away.

Kegan
So you're the gardener?
Forest
I prefer to be called the garden.
Supriya
Who are you?
Forest stood up.
Forest
I am the earth.
Kegan
Is that so?
Forest
Yes.
Kegan
Guess we're killing the Earth, Supriya.
Supriya
Guess so.
Kegan raised his hand and all the ground above them disappeared. The setting sun was now above them. Merdos and Masato landed next to them.
Forest
You are the magicians they spoke of.
Kegan and Supriya nodded.
Forest
You can't kill me.
He fell back and he disappeared into the ground.
Forest
I am this planet.
They heard from the ground.

Amya sat on the floor.
Amya
Nice hit.
Grey stood across from her.
Grey
I was going to get you eventually.
Amya
Amazing how the outcome of a battle could be decided so quickly.
He nodded.
Amya
I taught you well. I taught you better than I taught myself.
Grey walked forward.
Grey
That you did.
Seneca landed next to them. She blasted the entire area where Grey stood.
Amya
Foolish boy.
She lied on her back.
Amya
(Half of my energy exhausted. Perhaps I am the weakest of my siblings.)
She turned her head to see Grey blasting at Seneca.
Amya
(Or is it just because I had the worst opponent any of us could have?)
Forest
Stand up, my love.
Amya closed her eyes.
Amya
You came.
Forest
Always.
Amya
I would have died here if you weren't with us.
Forest
Join me, Amya of the leaf.
Amya turned into sand.


Darby
What is this?
Darby walked up to Syn, Pathion, Vesper, and Syn all standing together.
Syn
Things have changed, Darby.
Darby
You've forgiven her?
Syn nodded.
Syn
I have.
Akasha
Everything is alright now, Darby. We're all together again.
Darby
You are okay with this, Pathion, Vesper?
They both nodded.
Fallen
It's a good thing I'm not.
Fallen appeared at the feet of Darby.
Fallen
I don't like this at all.
Darby was no longer licking his paw.
Darby
By default that means they are allies of the empire.
Fallen
Exactly.
Syn
There is no need for violence. We will leave without interrupting your plans.
Fallen growled.
Fallen
Who the fuck do you think I am? You made a deal with me, Syn.
None of them had ever seen Fallen like this. Pathion and Vesper stood in front of Syn.
Syn
The deals off, Fallen. What more can I say?
Fallen
Foolish man with the heart of a child. Akasha always knew this would happen.
Akasha didn't say anything.
Fallen
I always saw this as a possibility but I thought if you'd kill her first we wouldn't have to go here.
Syn
What do you plan on doing?
Pathion
Calm down, Fallen.
Vesper
We are not your enemy.
Fallen
Shut up! I was not speaking to Syn's puppets.
Pathion and Vesper were now angry.
Fallen
You've left me with no choice other than to deal with you all.
Syn
How can you possibly take on five of us?
Darby
Five?
They all looked at Darby.
Darby
My allegiance is to Fallen.
Pathion's fangs were now showing.
Syn
Always knew he'd be the one to betray our clan.
Darby
No, Simon, you betrayed us. You betrayed us for her.
Syn didn't respond to him.
Syn
If this is the way it's going to be, so be it. You can't kill us, Fallen.
Fallen
You are correct. I can't kill you.
Fallen stepped forward.
Fallen
I'll make you wish you didn't have the power to regenerate though.
Darby's sword his the ground.
Fallen
One more thing, did you forget that Darby can actually kill you?
His sword turned black.
Darby
My sword of rebirth.
They all looked at Darby's sword with a bit of fear in their hearts.


Soldier on intercom
They are trying to invade the palace again.
Iris rubbed her head.
Iris
Kill them all.
Suri
Why don't you do it yourself?
Iris turned to Suri.
Iris
Even you know my power is pretty low right now.
Suri
Afraid of dying?
Iris
I won't deny it.
Suri
Why are you doing all this, Iris? Why are you trying to kill all these humans?
Iris
We're all fighting for someone we love. There is no going back on that. In the moment we decided this would be our path, we left something behind. We're all fighting for someone. We all left something behind.
Suri
You're right.
Iris and Suri agreed.

Hayden stood above a sitting Amros.
Hayden
Are you okay?
Amros
Yes.
Hayden
Your wound is still bleeding.
Hayden healed it.
Hayden
You're at seventy percent of your power.
Amros
I'm aware.
Hayden
I don't know if we can beat them.
Amros
That doesn't matter.
Amros stood up.
Amros
If we die, we die.
Hayden
That is what we decided. I almost forgot.
They ran back to the fight.

Ximendos fired at them both as they ran towards them.
Godlin
I'll handle this.
Godlin shot forward. His fist connected with Hayden's stomach. He grabbed Hayden by the hair so that Hayden wasn't sent flying. He tried to grabbed Hayden's neck but Hayden grabbed his hand. He kicked Godlin in the face and he was released. Amros hit Godlin with his wind slashes. If this was anyone else, they would have been cut into pieces.
Godlin
Fool!
Godlin spun kicked and barely missed Amros. Amros blasted him with a white beam of energy.
Godlin
You are nothing!
Godlin walked through the beam and tried to grab Amros by the neck but Hayden smacked his hand down and then kicked him back into the beam of energy. Ximendos landed behind Amros. His sword entered slashed across his back. Amros fell to the ground. Hayden grabbed the hand that held the sword and Ximendos dropped it in pain. Hayden head butted Ximendos and he fell to the floor.
Hayden
You can't keep this up.
Hayden healed him again.
Amros
I'm having the time of my life.
Amros stood up and slammed his hands on the floor next to Ximendos' body. A giant twister appeared and sucked Ximendos in. Hayden and Godlin flew past Amros.
Amros
(Hayden can't keep this up. Godlin is a God.)

Nick
Malic?
Malic
That would be me. Oh shit, what is Roselyn doing with you?
Nick
She's my mom.
Nick picked up Malic's head from the ground.
Roselyn
What happened to you?
Malic
Fat monster ate my body.
Nick
Today has been a long day. Where's Velis?
Malic
I don't know, actually. One moment I was in her arms, the next I was on the floor.
Roselyn now was able to focus on the powers that were waging around them.
Roselyn
We are in trouble.
Malic
I know, I can feel it.
Roselyn
I've never felt such power before. It even surpasses Hayden. Who can it be?
Nick
Ximendos?
Malic
No, his is there too.
Roselyn
I also feel another great power as well.
Malic
It's right next to Akasha's and the Syn clans!
Nick
Let's go!
Nick ran off towards where he felt Vesper's power.

Luciana
We've lost all our aircraft.
Nicholas
We'll have to deal with this now. The dragons can't enter the palace.
They fired over the barrier at the Gears units of the empire. Nya and Ayn both stood together on the palace peaks.

Arkain
You can't tell me you don't miss Velis.
Cameron didn't say anything.
Arkain
I'll take your silence as you admitting it.
Cameron
And so?
Arkain
What?
Cameron
What if I do miss her?
Arkain
Well, it's okay to admit it. There is nothing wrong with that. Did I say there was? Nope.
Cameron
When the going got tough I sent Velis away from the Empire's palace. Right now she's back on the beach with a barrier around her.
Arkain
If only I could do that for Suri.
Cameron
Suri isn't as reckless as Velis.
Arkain nodded in agreement.
Arkain
Still, I wish I knew she was okay.
Cameron
We already went over this. She probably is.
Arkain
I'm not even sure I can trust myself.
Cameron
If that's so, what do you do from there? Where do you go when it gets dark? Who do you trust when you can't even trust yourself?
Arkain paused for a moment.
Arkain
I can trust you, Cameron.
Cameron opened his eyes. Although he wasn't surprised this was an answer, he was surprised it was actually said.
Cameron
And I you, Arkain. And I you.
Cameron closed his eyes again.
Cameron
When we can't trust ourselves, trust in each other. That will get us through.
And then Cameron felt it. His barrier go up with a power that was not apart of his party.

Velis sat down staring at the sun meeting the ocean. She held Arkain's camera in her hands tightly.
Velis
You guys better be okay out there.
Ilias
No need to worry,
Velis stood up and turned around quickly.
Ilias
They are as okay as they could possibly be.
Velis
What are you doing here?
Ilias
I've come to retrieve a thorn in my side.
Velis knew he was talking about her.
Velis
What the hell do you want from me?
Ilias
A way to get Cameron to work with me.
Velis laughed.
Velis
That shipped sailed a long time ago. What makes you think he'd work with you again? Especially after you betrayed him.
Ilias pointed at Velis.
Ilias
You.
Velis went silent.
Ilias
You're all I need.
He sat on the rock closest to him.
Ilias
What would Cameron be running from? He wanted the humans dead, they're dead. He wants my father dead, he'll be dead. I don't see where our interests collide.
Velis
He also wants you dead. I think you forgot that part.
Ilias
He can't have that, unfortunately. What he can have though, is power. Cameron and Arkain would be apart of The Cloud.
Velis
The Cloud? What kind of stupid name is that?
Ilias
The New Order? How many times can something be knew after humanity has been around for so long?
Velis
Touche.
Ilias
That's not important though. What's important is that you come with me.
Velis
And if I refuse? Will you kill me?
Ilias
As much as I'd like to do so, no. I'd beat you half to death if you'd like.
Velis
I'm not complaining.
Ilias
Oh Velis, still as idiotic as ever. Will you ever grow up?
Velis
Can't say I will. My heart grows but my mind stays the same.
Ilias
Your heart grows? I'm going to assume you and Cameron have taken it to the next level.
Velis
You got it!
She gave him a thumbs up.
Ilias
As disgusting as that sounds, congratulations.
Velis
Thanks.
Ilias
To put it frankly, I never had a problem with you, Velis. Out of all the Empire I liked you and Malic the best. I'd like for both of you, if he's still alive, to return to me.
Velis
I used to like you too. When you and Cameron were small, those were the days. You two were like no other kids I had ever seen. Then you grew up. Maybe that's why I'm afraid of growing up. I might turn into something similar to you. That worries me, Ilias. As for returning to you? No can do, brother bear. That's not an option for us.
Ilias put his hand on his forehead to cover is annoyed self.
Ilias
Is that final?
Velis
As it can be.
Ilias
If that's the case, I will return to my palace and let Cameron know.
Velis
You have Cameron?
Ilias
And Arkain.
Velis
How did you manage that? They were at the Empire.
Ilias
Fallen plays a great role as friend, doesn't he? He really has a talent for it.
Velis
I should have known. That little bastard.
Ilias
We all play our part. Sort of how I played the enemy? Sort of how you played the enemy?
Velis
Shut up already. I think we're through here.
Ilias
Not in least. I didn't want to say this but if you don't come with me, I'll be forced to tell Cameron.
Velis' eyes opened wide.
Velis
You son of a bitch!
Ilias
She is one, I can't argue with that.
Velis
You wouldn't.
Ilias
Oh but I would. What's to keep me from doing so?
Velis
I'll fight you.
Ilias
You'll die and I'll still tell him. How sad, soiled memories.
Velis
You have no heart!
Ilias
I do, yet it's not the same color as yours. Save it, I don't care to argue with you anymore. Cameron will know, Cameron will know if you decide to go against me. No one wants Cameron knowing the truth about the night he lost everything. The night he lost him.
Velis was silent for almost two minutes.
Ilias
And the verdict?
Velis
I'm going with you, asshole.
Ilias
There was no other way.
Velis
Seems like it. I'm just making sure that what we left behind stays there.
Ilias
So long as you follow my every order, it will.
Velis
Why don't you just use your mind control on me?
Ilias laughed.
Ilias
Oh because this is much better. Much better.

Chapter Sixty-Seven: You're a Fool

Darby swung his sword at Ximendos and Ximendos dodged it. Ximendos tried to grab Darby by the neck but it was a feeble attempt. Suddenly a formation of wind appeared and they both jumped back.
Darby
(He's able to create small twisters? They must have energy infused in them like Vesper's water. No matter.)
Darby ran away from the twister towards Amros.
Amros
Imbecile.
Darby was pushed into the twister by a force of wind released by Amros' hand.
Ximendos
That wasn't nice.
Darby did not scream as the twister cut at him.
Ximendos
What a pain.
A green ball of energy flew from Ximendos' hand into the twister and it exploded.
Amros
I'm sure that's not enough.
Darby stood twenty feet away from them.
Ximendos
He's playing with us? Of all people.
Zarathustra landed behind Darby.
Darby
(This is dangerous.)
He turned around quickly as Zara's mouth opened.
Darby
(I'll play along as well, dragon.)
Zara's green flames flew towards Darby. Darby blew black flames from his mouth that blocked them.
Ximendos
To be expected from a genius like him.
Ximendos appeared behind him and Zara transformed into a sword into his hands.
Ximendos
Nonetheless.
Darby ducked down. Ximendos flew over. Darby blew the black flames at him. Orthak appeared between them and absorbed the flames.
Amros
My turn.
Amros blew Orthak away. He grabbed Darby by the neck and lifted him. He went for the punch and Darby caught it with his open hand. Ximendos ran up to grab Darby by the back of the neck but Darby threw Amros into him.
Amros
(No!)
Amros fell to the ground after Ximendos touched him by the neck.
Ximendos
It's okay.
He pushed him to the ground as Amros tried to stand up.
Ximendos
It's time I dealt with you.
Darby ran forward by Zara appeared and blocked him. Zara swung her tail and Darby jumped away.
Ximendos
The world is cruel.
Amros looked up at Ximendos in pain. Zara turned into a sword and landed in his hand.
Darby
(Looks like Amros is done.)
Ximendos
So long!
Before the sword hit Amros in the chest Ximendos was blasted away by a huge white beam.
Darby
(How annoying.)
Darby was blasted as well.

Iris
Her name is Nya.
Iris rubbed Nya's nose.
Iris
Isn't she a beauty?
Suri
Go fuck yourself.
Iris shrugged.
Iris
Dinner time, Nya.
Nya flew forward. Suri's fist connected with the dragon and the giant dragon flew up into the ceiling.
Suri
I'm not afraid of your pet!
Her fist hit Iris straight in the face sending her crashing through the wall.
Suri
(This isn't good.)
She turned around as the dragon's mouth was opening. She caught the mouth as it tried to swallow her head.
Suri
(Not dying here!)
She shut it close.
Suri
Fuck you!
She threw the dragon through the wall.
Iris
Lovely!
A blast of energy broke on Suri's shield.
Suri
I know.
Suri swung her sword at Iris. Iris ducked and jumped back.
Iris
You're different.
Suri was trying to catch her breath.
Iris
Seems like now you're putting it all on the line.
Like a bullet Suri bashed her side into Iris. Iris flew through another wall.
Suri
I wonder how much this palace can take before it falls.
She walked through the wall.
Suri
You're right about one thing, you know? I am putting my all into this. That way once you're dead, this will almost be over.
She approached Iris who was getting up from the ground.
Suri
You asked me where he's at, remember? He's somewhere out there fighting.
Iris
Is that what you think?
Suri
No, that's what I know. You don't know him.
Iris
Is that so?
Suri
He's going to beat your empire. He's going to change things.
Iris
Petty claims.
Suri
One thing he won't do is kill you.
Suri grabbed Iris by both of her wrists.
Suri
You'll be long dead by then.
She bashed her head into Iris' head.

Vesper
You White Coats believe you're the standard for good, don't you?
Hayden
I have no interest in rhetoric.
Vesper
If only I could really kill you.
Hayden flew forward and grabbed her by the neck.
Hayden
If only.
Vesper
First mistake.
Vesper turned into water and began to circulate around Hayden. The ball of water became larger and larger.
Vesper
You beat us when we were children. It won't happen the same way. We've had a lot of time to evolve.
Hayden tried to move but was held down by the weight of the water.
Vesper
No use trying to escape. I've made the water so heavy your body won't be able to move. I can't kill you but I sure as hell can keep you in one place.
She reformed her body outside of the giant water ball.
Vesper
(My job is complete.)
She ran off.

Roselyn
Nick!
Roselyn hugged Nick tightly in her arms.
Nick
I'm okay, mom.
Roselyn
Just let me hold you for a bit longer.
She held him in her arms.

Grey's red beam connected with the blast Seneca fired.
Amya
Gotcha!
Amya arm burst from the sand below and tried to grab Grey's ankle. He flew up into the air.
Grey
(I guess I'll have to fight Seneca where Amya can't go. Now this fight is worthy of me getting myself killed.)
Seneca flew after him blasting away as he dodged her mighty beams.
Amya
He decided to try and take me out of this battle? Were it so easy.
Amya smacked both of her hands to the ground. Sand spikes flew up into the sky towards Grey and Seneca.
Grey
(She'd hit Seneca to get me?)
Grey spun around quickly and released a barrage of red beams that clashed with sand spikes. Seneca was pelted by the spikes but they only pushed her further away from Grey.
Grey
(Poor eagle.)
Grey turned into a red ball of energy and smashed into the ground in front of Amya. An explosion of red filled the area.

Kegan
Did you know he was that powerful?
Supriya
I didn't.
Merdos
He was Amya's trump card.
Masato
Which doesn't make sense though. Why would she join the enemy without him?
Supriya
Grey is a soldier, he isn't a tool.
They were on the opposite side of where Grey and Amya were fighting.
Kegan
Are we ready?
They all nodded.
Supriya
Our mission is to infiltrate the palace and capture Ilias Anselia.
Kegan
Grey is to capture or kill Amya and we are to do our part efficiently and quickly. Let's go.
They ran up the hill and then stopped in shock.
Kegan
What the hell?
Supriya
Where did this come from?
The two tigers below them growled. In front of them was no longer a sea of dirt.
Forest
Going somewhere?
They all heard his voice coming from within.
Forest
Welcome to the jungle.

Gemma sat at her vanity. She knew the mirror was in front of her.
Gemma
If only you could look into the mirror and see how much you've changed.
She covered her ears.
Gemma
Where are you? Where are you strength?
She punched the glass and it shattered.
Gemma
You're a fool.

Ilias
Prepare my ship.
Two soldiers left the room leaving Ilias alone once again.
Ilias
I will deal with you two once I save my sister.
He stood up. Fallen and Luna entered the room.
Fallen
What do you want now?
Ilias
I need you to stay here.
Luna
But we want time to ourselves!
Ilias
You'll have it once I return. I have to save Iris, Fallen.
Fallen
Oh! So you're going to complete that task now. Very well, we'll stay.
Luna
Fine! I guess I have no say in this.
Fallen
You don't.
Luna bit Fallen.
Ilias
First I must speak with Gemma. I can't leave without saying goodbye.
Luna
How romantic.
Ilias
Quiet, pussycat.
He left the room.


Akasha and Syn stood across from each other. They no longer resembled the forms they once took. Both of them hand giant claws and long tails.
Pathion
They both are fully released. This isn't good.
They both opened their mouths showing their large sharp teeth. Two blue beams flew from both parties and make a giant explosion.
Pathion
At least only Syn has released.
He slammed his hand to the ground.
Pathion
I guess it's time to try and kill you, Akasha. I'll have to use Gomorrah.
A giant green and silver sword rose from the ground. He grabbed the handle.
Pathion
Still as heavy as the last time.
He flew forwards toward Akasha.
Pathion
Die!
His sword collided with her claws as she desperately blocked all his quick swings. She screamed as her right hands claws broke. Her tail wrapped itself around him. With her other hand she cut off the arm that had the broken claws.
Pathion
(She knows our sword's power?)
Syn
Sodom!
A white blade shot out of Syn's mouth and into Akasha's chest. She yelped and fell back.
Pathion
(Yes!)
Pathion regained his footing and ran towards the giant Syn.
Pathion
You still there?
The monster raised it's mouth to the sky and opened it wide. The normal Syn rose from it and jumped down next to Pathion. The skin of the monster fell to the ground.
Syn
That may have done it.
Pathion
I'm not sure. She seems to know about our swords of decay.
They kissed. Vesper landed next to them.
Vesper
You got her!
Pathion
No shit.
Syn walked passed them towards Akasha's body.
Vesper
And this is where it ends.
Pathion
What he has been waiting for.

Arkain
How long have we been in here?
Cameron
For about an hour.
Arkain
This is bullshit, dude.
Cameron
Reserve your energy.
Arkain
What do you think I've been doing!
Cameron
Talking.
Arkain
You're an asshole.
Cameron smiled.
Cameron
As are you.


Gemma
There's nothing to say.
Ilias stood at the doorway.
Ilias
And why is that?
Gemma
I'm conflicted and I don't want to talk about it.
Ilias
You broke the mirror.
Gemma
It's not like I was going to use it anyways.
Ilias
You never know.
Gemma
You'd think I'd be used to this by now.
She chuckled.
Gemma
Being conflicted, that is. That's the lining to my entire life. Krysin and Gemma, Gemma and Krysin. Now I can't seem to decide what is wrong and right and it's eating away at me.
She looked down at her feet.
Gemma
Whether to side with the man I love or the one I used to love. It's too much.
Ilias
I can help.
Gemma
You can't!
She turned to him violently.
Gemma
Your words will only persuade me from figuring out this myself. You can tell me over and over that humanity was just a deer caught in the headlights of change but that won't make this sick feeling in my stomach go away. They didn't deserve what you and the empire did to them. No one deserves that.
Ilias walked towards her.
Gemma
I don't think I can forgive you for what you've done.
Ilias
I can live with that.
He placed his hands on her shoulders.
Ilias
And you must live with what you've done.
She nodded.
Ilias
You must also come to terms with reality, my love. This isn't about the humans.
He kissed her head.
Ilias
It's about Arkain.
Gemma looked up at him.
Ilias
It's okay, I understand. First loves have a way of binding themselves to us. One reason why I can't find it in me to criticize myself. You know, I always told myself if I love myself why love another. Funny thing, if you think about it. I digress though.
He let go of her shoulders.
Ilias
It's that moment that you're living in and not the one that follows that makes the mess in your head. You need to stop torturing yourself.
He turned to walk.
Ilias
In the end it's just a waste of time. When I return I'll give you the chance to explain yourself to him, to everyone. If you want atonement, or the illusion with it, it starts with your closure. First you must accept it though, first you must acknowledge what you've done.
He reached the door way.
Ilias
Yet to be honest, what good is an acknowledgment? It doesn't change a thing that happened.
He placed his hand on his forehead.
Ilias
With that said, Gemma, I'm so-
Gemma
No, don't say you're sorry. What good is it anyways? I won't believe you and it doesn't change a thing that happened.
He walked away.
Ilias
(I'm losing her.)

Emmylou
She's been gone for too long.
Conor
Seriously. The empire is still firing their cannons.
Emmylou looked at him at the screen on hers.
Emmylou
Do you think she's okay?
Conor
Yeah, she's okay, I'm sure. We're fools if we think that Iris girl would go down so quickly.
Luciana appeared on their screens.
Luciana
If she doesn't finish this in ten minutes we will have to retreat.
Conor
What?
Nicholas
Luciana is correct.
His image appeared.
Nicholas
We've lost twenty units already just waiting. This is far more complicated than I imagined. If this continues we won't have enough to do battle.
Conor
But she won't fail us!
Nicholas
This is reality, Conor. The good guys don't always win.
Luciana
She has ten minutes.
They were all silent after that.

Iris lied on the floor while Suri punched her in the face. She knew if not for her shield she'd be dead.
Iris
(Is this girl really this powerful?)
Nya stood in the room they had just left silently.
Iris
(She truly is a wonder. I'm actually impressed.)
Ten guards ran into the room.
Soldier 1
Lord Iris!
The one in the front raised his gun at Suri.
Iris
(Fool.)
Iris lined his body with a shield and then smashed it in. The man turned into a thin shield of blood.
Iris
(I won't have anyone interrupt. She's almost there.)
As the other guards raised their guns Nya flew into them and began to eat.
Suri
Why won't you die!
She continued to punch her.
Iris
(Almost...almost.)
Nya sat down on the side eating.

Two tigers ran through the jungle together. Merdos roared. Instead of dodging trees he was now cutting them in pieces by running through. Masato was absorbing all around him.
Forest
So you are not normal animals. It makes no difference.
Vines shot out and tried to wrap around them both but they were cut in pieces or absorbed by Masato.
Forest
A power to cut all and a power to absorb all. You creatures are impressive.
Surpiya and Kegan were in the sky above the jungle dodging vines and spikes of sand.
Kegan
Now we're the ones being distracted!
Supriya
What can we do though?
Kegan looked down.
Kegan
We have to find the voice!
A vine wrapped itself around his ankle.
Kegan
Perfect!
He grabbed the vine. It pulled him into the jungle.
Supriya
Kegan!
A spike hit her in the shoulder and she fell into the jungle.

Gwen
There's an awful lot of noise going on outside.
She said to the others as they sat around in Ilias' library.
Renn
It doesn't concern us.
Gwen jumped off the table.
Gwen
I know but I'm bored as hell.
Cash
Read a book.
Gwen
I've already read three of them.
Luck
Read another and keep quiet.
Gwen crossed her arms.
Gwen
Did we come here just to wait and wait?
Renn
She has a point. I want to kill.
Cash
Me too but we don't make the rules.
Luck yawned.
Gwen
See, even you're tired Lucky!
Luck looked directly at her now.
Luck
Of you.

Ilias sat down in the air ships main room.
Ilias
Are we ready?
The pilot turned around.
Pilot
Yes sir.
Ilias
Well then let's go.
The ship started up and began to take off.
Ilias
(We'll be there in a few hours.)

Seneca flew around in the sky as the cloud of dirt covered the ground.
Amya
Damn.
She spat dirt on the floor.
Amya
He's so powerful. I'm not su-
Amya took a kick from Grey to the face and flew back into the ground.
Grey
(She's still almost at full power. I suppose I'll really have to fight now.)
He looked up to the sky at Seneca.
Grey
You first.
He placed his hands together. A giant red beam blasted Seneca upwards towards space.

Akasha lied on her side in pain as she began to lose control of her body. Syn approached her alone.
Syn
My sword of Sodom. It's a nifty little piece of work.
Akasha spat on the floor below her.
Syn
Funny thing is, you could have dodged it.
Akasha didn't say a thing.
Syn
You let it hit you. Why?
He lowered himself down to her face.
Syn
Why?
Akasha mumbled something.
Syn
Excuse me?
Akasha
Because I don't care.
Syn's eyes grew large and his smile faded.
Syn
You don't care about what? Answer me!
She spat blood on the ground.
Syn
(It won't kill her but if she can't regenerate she'll lose control of her entire body. Even her ability to speak.)
He grabbed the handle of his sword.
Syn
I'm going to remove the sword. If you try and escape I will put it back in you.
He pulled the sword out. She yelped.
Akasha
Thank you, Simon.
He didn't like hearing that name. Especially from her.
Syn
It wasn't done because I wanted to help you. No, sister, those feelings left a long time ago.
Akasha
If that's the case than I regretfully accept it. I have no words for you though.
Syn
What?
Akasha
You came here to kill me, so kill me.
Syn
Don't tell me what to do! You're no longer in that position! You think even now you can tell me how to live my life?
Akasha
Oh shut up already. You're going to cry? Is that it? You've grown powerful and yet you still retain your childish mind. Incapable of thinking things through that involve your emotions. Safe to say you're still a child at heart.
Syn
Shut up! You hateful bitch.
He sat down next to her.
Syn
You know me too well. You knew I wouldn't do it, didn't you?
She nodded.
Syn
Knew I wouldn't make the others do it either, didn't you?
She nodded.
Syn
Why, Amanda?
Akasha
I've told you. It wasn't never meant to happen that way.
Syn
You left us. You left me.
Akasha
I thought you were dead.
Syn
You know we're immortals!
Akasha
Yet you were fighting Hayden. Ximendos told me he was capable of killing us.
Syn didn't respond.
Akasha
I saw you destroyed on the floor and he told me I had to leave at risk of me ending up like you all. I had no choice, Simon. I had no choice.
Syn
We can't die!
Vesper
Yes we can.
Vesper was standing over Syn. Syn turned around angrily.
Syn
What are you doing here? I said to stay away!
Vesper
Hayden can kill an immortal. He killed Tusa.
Syn was taken aback.
Syn
Tusa dead? My little Tusa?
Vesper nodded.
Syn
He was just a little boy.
Vesper was now looking down at the floor.
Syn
Amanda...
She looked up at him.
Syn
I forgive you.

Hayden
(I'll have to kill her as soon as I possibly can.)
He tried to move with all his strength.
Hayden
(It becomes heavier as I apply more strength. She's good.)
A black sword appeared in his left hand.
Hayden
(Speak, Cyril.)
A giant black eagle burst through the ball of water freeing Hayden.
Hayden
Very well, my brother.
He stroked it's neck.
Hayden
Let us find Amros.

Kassle
(Are you almost done setting up?)
Kassle spoke to Kade with his mind.
Kade
(Almost. If this is going to work we have to be precise.)
Kassle
(I already know that. My work is done and perfect.)
Kade
(Give me ten minutes.)
Kassle
(Very well.)

Suri stopped punching.
Iris
Finished already?
She had reached her limit. A blast of energy shot her off of Iris and against the wall.
Suri
(Damn, I'm at thirty percent.)
Iris stood up.
Iris
You nearly did it. Four more punches and you would have taken off my body shield. Luckily for me I was able to calculate your energy. The harder you started to breath the more time I just had to endure your punches. Nice try though. I haven't been shot down to twenty percent since my battles with father.
Suri tried to stand up.
Iris
It's better if you don't.
Iris placed a shield on her hands to keep them down.
Iris
It was a valiant effort, Suri. One you could have been proud of if you lived. Although you don't seem like the one to admire your failures, no matter how far they took you.
Iris giggled.
Iris
Well then.
Iris put two fingers on her forehead. She turned to Nya.
Iris
I had to regain some energy so I took down the shield. It's time we end this.
She walked up to Suri.
Iris
Even though it never started for your friends outside.

Luciana
The left flank made progress. The shields are down!
Nicholas
Fire all cannons! Destroy the palace!
Conor and Emmylou yelled as they ran over their safety area firing.
Conor
What's that?
Emmylou
Looks like some sort of bird.
Nicholas
Oh no.
Nicholas said softly as Nya rose in the sky in front of the moon.
Luciana
North face, fire at the palace walls. South, fire at the cannons, take them out. West, get to the outer wall and make sure there isn't any cavalry. We don't want to be overwhelmed. Eastern, fire at the bird in the sky!
Nicholas
Luciana!
Luciana's gear turned to Nicholas' gear.
Nicholas
That's not a bird.
Nya roared and every human below trembled in fear.
Conor
Fire!
Nya was hit by thousands of bullets. She sent twenty fire balls down.
Nicholas
Evasive maneuvers!
Hundreds of Gears in the way of the fire balls scrambled to dodge them.
Luciana
We've lost forty units!
Nicholas
We can't fight that thing. Our bullets don't do any damage.
Conor
Cannons are down!
Luciana
Time to fly! Northern face take to the sky and invade the palace!
Nicholas dodged a fire ball.
Emmylou
What are we going to do?
Conor
Fight!
They fired on as Nya rained fire balls on the invaders.

General on intercom
Lord Iris, our cannons have been destroyed.
Iris
Are our soldiers ready for inside combat?
General
Yes.
Iris
So then hold them off in the courtyard.
General
We will do our best, however-
Iris
However what?
General
We are severely outnumbered. Our radars show us they have over sixteen-hundred Gears units approaching.
Iris
And our count?
General
Nine-hundred.
Iris
Nya will take care of it.
Suri
You're going to lose this palace.
Iris looked down on her.
Iris
I'll be back.
She turned and left the room. Suri was pinned down with nowhere to go.
Iris
(I'm at thirty-five percent of my power. I have to end this fast if I want to win.)
She entered the courtyard. It was as big as two football stadiums.
Iris
The enemy approaches. Show them what the Solace empire can do! Fight like dogs!
The soldiers cheered.
Iris
(This is going to have to work. Nya, destroy as many as you can.)
Nya flew into the wave of flying Gears headed for the palace. She tore units apart with her giant claws and bit into many as well.
Conor
That monster is destroying our units! We've dropped thirty units in less than a minute.
Nicholas
We don't have anything that can damage it.
Luciana
We've entered the palace. Resistance inside is strong.
Emmylou
Have them set up a perimeter across from the enemy in the courtyard.
The Gears units inside of the courtyard deployed their metal walls. Nya extended her wings and cut through twenty more units with them.
Luciana
That beast is a nuisance. How are we supposed to do combat with that?
Iris walked forward as bullets flew. Her shield took more damage.
Iris
(The bullets on these are stronger than I expected. I can't stand this for more than two minutes.)
She lifted the metal walls and smashed them into the first row of Gears. They all charged forward firing as they were fired on.
Iris
Oh well.
She ran forward. Gear unit after another was smashed into pieces in front of her as others blew up. The one nearest to her fired but then the hand was crushed. The chest blew open and the soldier was dragged out. He was trapped in a shield. They fired at Iris.
Iris
(This will do.)
She used the live human as a shield.
Iris
(They aren't paying much attention.)
She threw the now dead body at the closest firing gear. She then smashed it. Suddenly a blue cord wrapped itself around her.
Iris
(Shit!)
An electric current ran through it. It wasn't hurting her but it was damaging her shield terribly. The head of the attacking unit was smashed in and then crushed into a cube of metal.
Iris
(Have to retreat.)
She ran back to the line of allies. Once she hopped over the little barrier she turned around.
Iris
Long live the Empire!
She slammed her hands on the ground and giant energy shield flew forward smashing all in its way.
Luciana
This can't be!
Nicholas
How could we of lost two hundred units in less than a second?
Emmylou
Does that mean Suri lost?
Conor
Damn! We have to get inside.
Nya fought on with ease as she smashed more and more units up.
Emmylou
All units keep firing at it!
They continued to hopelessly battle Nya. Then Nya opened her mouth wide and a wave of energy pulsed out on the entire ground.
Conor
Get out of the way!
Nicholas, Emmylou, Conor Luciana and many more of their army flew back as the wave of energy annihilated all in its path.
Conor
Shit!
Conor's unit stood in front of Emmylou and the others.
Where over nine hundred Gears stood now was a wasteland of metal parts and fire.
Luciana
Sir, we now only have 400 units to command.
Nicholas took a deep breath.
Nicholas
We must enter the palace.
He turned his screens off so the others could not see him.
Nicholas
This mission doesn't have a retreat option anymore.

Ximendos stood at the the top of the stairs to the main hall. His clothes were now dirty and ripped. Zarathustra sat behind him across the entire area. She growled at Amros and Wynson who stood at the bottom.
Ximendos
You almost had me there, Amros.
Amros
I could say the same to you, brother.
Darby stood at a distance just watching them.
Darby
(That was a close one. I should have known this wasn't going to be easy. Where did Orthak go?)
He looked around but Orthak was nowhere to be found. There was a birds screech and behind Amros at a distance they all saw a giant black eagle coming their way.
Ximendos
(Him too? Damn. I guess I have no other choice if I want to survive this.)
Zarathustra turned back into a sword. Ximendos caught it. Hayden jumped down and Cyril turned back into a sword. Amros motioned to Wynson and so did he.
Amros
What kept you?
Hayden
The Syn clan.
Amros
That shouldn't have taken you that long.
Hayden
They had a few new tricks up their sleeves. Nonetheless, I am here.
Amros
Good. We can finally end this.
They both looked up at Ximendos.

Nya hovered above in the sky above two hundred units plus Conor, Emmylou, Nicholas and Luciana.
Emmylou
Looks like this is it.
Conor
Don't say that.
Nicholas
To the palace walls!
Every unit next to them initiated their flying system.
Luciana
Go!
As they flew forward they stopped in horror as they heard another roar behind them. Every unit turned around to see what it was.
Conor
Oh fuck, this too much.
They all watched in fear as a terrible beast of the sky flew their way.
Ilias
I won't be there for another hour and a half. Ayn, I'm trusting you.

Hayden
Long time no see, young Amron.
Ximendos laughed.
Ximendos
You as well insist on using that name, I see.
Hayden
I feel compelled to do so. Even though your heart is black, it's your memories even I hold onto.
Ximendos
You might as well burn them, Hayden. You're no more my father than Amros is my ally.
Hayden
It's a shame, Amron. Even after so many years you still haven't learned a thing.
Amros
Still the same boy with a broken heart.
Ximendos
Fools, you don't know anything about me.
He laughed again.
Ximendos
I wonder how much you've learned with such a gap of time, Hayden.
Hayden was puzzled by these words.
Darby
(A battle of words, I see. Looks like things have gotten a little more complicated. It's best I leave once they commence again. Against all three of them I might even die.)
The big doors behind Ximendos began to open slowly.
Ximendos
We all run away from our past, our horrors, our pain. You're no different, Prince of the Elf.
Hayden
What madness do you speak of?
Hayden stepped backward as a figure walked slowly out of the doors.
Hayden
How?
He said quietly.
Ximendos
Let me introduce you, ignorant Amros.
The figure now stood next to Ximendos.
Ximendos
I've waited too long to use this card of mine.
He laughed a dark laugh.
Ximendos
Amros, meet Godlin, king of the Elf and father of Hayden.