The Marked Champion of Zerom stood over the young Sygnus—the shadowed wings extended, black-bladed scythe held between clawed hands.

What is this place?

Lucci peered around the strange chamber, taking a cautious step forward. His limbs felt suspended and his motions were sluggish. Light flickered from above through draping veils of various colors, casting twisted and eerie shadows over the walls. The floor was caked with grime and decay, somewhat squishy as he walked over it.

Why is this place familiar?

Long, deflated figures lay crumpled against the far wall. Dark stains molded with age charted rivers across the floor. Faceless, the figures were covered in long rotted squares of cloth that writhed with the squiggling infection of death vermin and bugs. The stench was overwhelming, turning his stomach inside out.

“Ugh!” Lucci covered his nose and mouth, fighting the bile that rose in his throat. As he did, he stumbled, slipping backwards against something cold and metal.

Peering over one shoulder, he could make out some sort of machine, unlike anything he had ever seen before. There was one long, slender capsule, standing upright within its fixtures. Except for the small glass area near the top, it was completely enclosed in a featureless black case. Numerous clear tubes and snaking wires ran into the shell from a small boxlike device.

His eyes traced the spiderwebbing wires, peering away from the first capsule to observe the second. It looked to have once been some clear, glass globe. But now it stood shattered, pieces scattered over the molding floor. Looking at it left a cold chill in the pit of his stomach.

I’ve got to figure out where I am… and how to get out of here.

Just as the thought brushed through his mind, Lucci heard the sound of a low, guttural growl. Prickles spread across his skin as he stiffened. There were not many things that the young Sygnus feared… but something about this sound left his breath cold in his chest.

Silver eyes turned, peering across the room. A shadow stood there. The outline of a man.

No… it can’t be…

The shape began to approach, the growl growing louder, reverberating within Lucci’s mind. The young Sygnus pressed back against the cold metal of the machine, his hands scrabbling over the slimy surface as if to find something to fend away the darkness.

As it came nearer, Lucci began to make out the features. Intense, dark eyes. The shock of side-swept hair. Mouth curled back in a disgruntled scowl, showing the hint of fangs. A strange scrawled Mark ran along one cheek.

“Master TsuYa!” he gasped, relaxing somewhat at the sight. It was Master TsuYa… as he was before that terrible day. Before the transformation had taken him. Lucci reached his hand forward. “Please… come back with me! Whatever has happened to you, we can fix it. You just have to give us time!”

Master TsuYa reeled back, shattering the air with a piercing, inhuman shriek. The sound ripped through Lucci’s mind with a terrible, searing pain. Though the young Sygnus clamped his hands over his ears, nothing could shut it out. He found his own voice rising in a tortured scream.

Through squinty eyes he could see it happening all over again. The darkness creeping over Master TsuYa’s form, bleeding through his skin, into his hair. Wings bursting from his shoulders with a sickly sound. Skin erupting as black spikes tore through flesh and cloth. Thick black blood splashing across the wall and the floor.

Hollowed black eyes burning with a terrible, haunted light.

“No! Nooo!” Lucci felt panic taking him as he backed away. He slipped through the grime, gagging as he breathed mouthfuls of the putrid decay with every gasp. “Please!”

The Marked Champion of Zerom stood over the young Sygnus—the shadowed wings extended, black-bladed scythe held between clawed hands. A low rumbling growl shook the room as the creature advanced, a trickle of black streaming from the reflectionless depths of his eyes.

Then, the growl began to form words, “You shouldn’t be here, kid! Get out!”

Lucci didn’t know what was more shocking: the fact that he wasn’t getting mauled… the fact that the Marked could speak… or the fact that Master TsuYa seemed aware enough to recognize him.

So there really IS something of Master TsuYa left…

Lucci heard his retort, foolish and idealistic even to his ears, “No! I’m not leaving without bringing you back!”

The growl shifted into a nasty snarl, “It’s too late for me, boy. But if he gets his hands on you, it’s too late for everyone!”

“That’s not going to happen!” Lucci protested, taking a slow step forward.

“Don’t be ridiculous! You can’t possibly–” Master TsuYa’s argument fell silent as the dark eyes shot one quick glance over his shoulder. When he rounded his attention back on the young Sygnus, the bladed scythe lifted. “No time — he’s come! Get out of here! And don’t come back!”

“Master TsuYa! Wait!” he stumbled back, hands lifting in feeble defense.

The Marked Champion’s face twisted in a snarling roar, the scythe lashing out at lightning speed. Lucci was knocked back by the raw strength of the blow, a searing pain jolting through his body. His frightened cry echoed from the cold walls, falling muffled before rising up strong again.

“Lucci!” Suzume’s shout suddenly rang in his ears. He could feel someone shaking him, fighting to bring him back to reality. “Lucci, wake up!”

Reality… where he found himself sprawled on the floor next to his bed, face drenched with fearful sweat. He struggled to sit up, his shaking arms having a mind of their own. His silver eyes focused on the frightened face of the dark haired girl who stood over him, little fingers still holding fast to his shirt front.

She looked like she might start crying at any moment.

“Suzume… I’m… alright,” he tried for his best comforting tone. But he couldn’t hide the fear that seeped into his voice.

The girl was already checking him over, pulling up his sleeves and yanking up his shirt.

“AH! Suzume!” Lucci protested with a rising flush of embarrassment. “What are you doing!?”

“You had a nightmare, didn’t you?” the dark haired girl sniffled. “Master TsuYa had them, too. All the time! And he got that terrible Mark… and his skin turned colors…”

“Whoa… whoa! Suzume,” he captured her little hands in his. Though he was shaken by the instant connection she had made between his nightmare and Master TsuYa, he continued to do his best to calm her down. “Look at me.”

Suzume gave a little hiccup and looked up at him.

“I’m alright,” Lucci told her, silver eyes searching her dark ones. “Okay?”

The girl didn’t respond. She simply gave a choked sound and threw her arms around his neck.

It was difficult for her not to be afraid, he knew. She had been there to see Master TsuYa’s transformation… sometimes she even seemed to blame herself for it. And though Lucci had done the best he could to keep the girl company, she knew more than anyone else what he really wanted to be doing.

She knew how he wanted to take the dark blade he found at the peak of the Obelisk and embark on a personal crusade across the Cleft. How he wanted to challenge the darkness of Zerom… how he wanted to destroy the Chaotic Arweinydd that now devoured their homelands.

But they won’t let me…

Despite the fact that Lucci had the weapon that could bring Zeromus down – perhaps the only thing that could truly threaten him – they wouldn’t let him return to Nefol to fight the final battle. No matter how he argued. No matter how he pleaded, pouted, fumed and implored. They wouldn’t listen to a word he said.

They still treat me like I’m nothing more than a child.

Lucci looked at his hand where it lay gently on Suzume’s head. It was broad and strong now… large enough to wield the length of his sword. Powerful enough to challenge the one that claimed to be his father.

But no one believed in his strength.

No one trusts a Sygnus.

Just then, a hesitant knock came at the far door. Both turned to look at it, stopped in mid-though and mid-sniffle.

Suzume’s eyes widened, “That’s right..! I came to find you because Master SoYa and Lady AsaHi wanted to speak with you!”

“What?” Lucci sat up with a jolt.

It had been so long since he had seen either of them… not since before he left the Islands on his journey. His gaze fell on his tousled reflection in the mirror as he scrambled to his feet.

They can’t see me like this!

“Lucci?” Suzume gave him a funny look as he began to dig out a fresh pair of trousers from his laundry stack.

“Tell them I’ll be out in just a moment!” both hands on her shoulders, he gave the girl a gentle nudge out the door.

“But–”

“I’m changing!” he exclaimed, quickly shutting the door behind her.

He could hear Suzume’s fluster huff from the other side as she went to relay his message. But he was too busy scrambling to find an unwrinkled shirt that he could still fit into. Fixing his long silver hair, Lucci scowled at his face in the mirror and scrubbed at the strange silver markings along his cheek.

What are they going to think of me?

Both Lady AsaHi and Master SoYa had always been so kind to him, ever since he could first remember. They had both believed in him even when so few had. It was difficult to think that he would have to face them… now that he had so obviously become more like the Sygnus, the Bane of their legends.

I suppose it’s a good sign that they came here to talk to me. Maybe there’s something I can do to help them… and then they’ll like me.

With one long breath, Lucci straightened the front of his tunic. Checked his boots. Rolled up the uneven end of his sleeves. Studied the hem of his now-too-short-cloak.

Then promptly lost all courage to reach for the doorknob.

“Lucci-boy…” Kaz’s soft voice intoned from somewhere on the far side of the room.

The young Sygnus glanced over.

“Don’t be afraid,” the words spoke without form. Kaz seemed to be able to manifest whenever he felt the need to… but even then, he didn’t always show up.

“I’m trying.”

“I get the funny feeling something important is happening,” Kaz continued. “I think they need you.”

“Really?” Lucci’s face spoke uncertainty.

“Why don’t you go and find out.”

Just that quickly, he knew that Kaz had vanished.

“Find out…” Lucci echoed. Then working up the last of his courage, he reached out and turned the door knob.

]]> http://www.dreigiau.com/ch20-3/feed http://www.dreigiau.com/ch20-2-enduring http://www.dreigiau.com/ch20-2-enduring#comments Fri, 19 Dec 2008 04:51:30 +0000 Aywren http://www.dreigiau.com/?p=993

"You have so much sorrow to battle inside of you, ZenToYa... and all I can give you... is a hug."

The Spiral lands stretched out before Zento in every direction, reminding him how far he was from home. Soft rolling hills of yellow-tinged grass ran up to greet the edge of the lilac-leaf forests. Groups of stone huts huddled together in their tell-tale circular patterns. Banners emblazoned with a glittering gold lion snapped in the late summer breeze. Soon, autumn would be upon the land and the distant harvest fields lay heavy with anticipation.

ZenToYa had visited the Spiral on a number of occasions in his life. Sometimes as an enemy. Sometimes on a mission for his people’s survival. It had only been lately that he had come as a friend, despite the general unrest that the Spiral people still held for their white-haired neighbors.

But never had he come with such a heavy heart and shattered spirit.

They said it was here that Tsu was turned…

While the battle had raged hot in the sky Islands, a different battle had taken place here. A battle where his youngest son, TsuYa, had fought to protect the children of Nefol. It was here that the great warrior’s spirit had Awakened within him. But upon the Awakening, the wards that had protected him from Zerom’s shadows were destroyed.

He had so little time to know his Awakening…

All Zento had left of his youngest son were stories. Stories and the fleeting mind images from those who had been there. Terrible images and feelings he couldn’t bear to see. And so the winged man had fled, searching for a place far away from anyone who held the dark memories of his son’s fall.

We had so little time together, Tsu. That’s all you really wanted, in the end. For us all to be together.

His burdened mind wandered back to a time long ago, to the first time Zento felt such a crushing pain. The loss of his wife. It had been sudden. Unexpected. Unexplained.

YuKai…

Zento had been out in a hunting party — it had been nothing out of the ordinary. But when he returned home at the end of that week, everything in his life had changed. No one could explain what had happened to his wife. There was no body left behind to tell the tale. Nothing was left but a gaping hole in his heart that had once been filled with her laughter and light.

When you left us, the boys were never the same.

SoYa had grieved for the loss of his mother, as was expected. But TsuYa had been so young, so deeply affected. He had grown more distant, more serious… become so different from the happy little boy he had been while his mother was still alive. Left a widower father of two children, Zento had felt helpless to stop the changes he saw in his youngest son then. Just as he felt helpless to protect his son from the dark transformation that had changed him now.

I was his hero. But time and again, I have let him down.

It was too late, now. Zento’s world had shifted and spun out of control, once more leaving a gaping hole in his soul. For as hard as he had fought and struggled to find a way to save his child, TsuYa was still swallowed by the darkness.

Just as Nefol was.

Just as Ceiswyr was.

Just as we all will be…

He bowed his head, shoulders sagging with the burden of sorrow. The burden of a leadership that he didn’t know if he could rightly bear any longer. Telltale grey strands of hair fell into his eyes, sticking to his face where it was hot with shameless tears.

“That’s not true,” a soft voice carried to his ears from somewhere just behind.

Zento’s head jerked up in momentary surprise. He had not expected anyone to be able to find him, let alone reach the spot where he had chosen to mourn. And he certainly had not expected that anyone could sense his thoughts.

A soft hand touched his shoulder. A tingling sensation spread from the touch, a warm and comforting feeling spreading through his chest.

“Times feel dark right now, ZenToYa. But you must never give up the fight to save your son,” the voice sounded again, this time just beside his ear.

Zento stiffened slightly, head turning. A woman leaned over him, her slender hand soft upon his shoulder. At first, he thought she may have been one of the Spiral people, for she had a similar coloration. But her features were small and delicate, unlike the inhabitants of the Outter Realms. She seemed to glow faintly with a wavering golden light that accented her deep golden skin and pale blond hair. Her eyes shown with quiet violet wisdom and intense concern.

As Zento stared into her face, he felt at once that he should know her. But when he shook his head out, the nagging familiarity scattered away, blamed on a trick of the sunlight’s reflection.

“Zento,” she spoke his name again, a soft accent between slender lips. Her hand lifted from his shoulder, brushing his cheek ever so slightly.

A shiver rushed through his body, his mind reeling back instantly, reaching to hold fast to his internal dedication to his late wife. It was only then that he realized he could hardly remember what she looked like.

“E-Excuse me!” he gave a gasping exclamation. His wings flailed as he jerked away from the woman’s hand, eyes staring at her in shock. “Do I know you!?”

She pulled her hand away, face mirroring his surprise. Then calmness draped back over her features and an easy smile curved her lips. “ZenToYa… relax. You’d think I was a Dragon come for her prey.”

That’s when the voice clicked in his mind. And though he had never seen her person form before, he recognized her. The name whooshed out of his lungs in an embarrassed stammer, “K-KaiShi?”

The woman rewarded him with a silvery laugh.

“KaiShi!” Zento choked, caught somewhere between staring awkwardly and an immense sense of relief. “Why…”

“Silly Zento,” she answered, gently chiding. “I knew that you’d run off and find a secretly secret place to cry your sorrows out. What else would you do if I wasn’t there?”

He couldn’t help but swallow down the last of his discomfort, staring into the light of her eyes. KaiShi was someone whom he had always trusted with the deepest burdens of his soul. And when he came for her council, she always had known exactly what he needed to hear.

She turned her head, a subtle shyness showing, “I just didn’t think the Dragon would cut it this time.”

“What do you mean?” he arched one eyebrow curiously.

“You have so much sorrow to battle inside of you, ZenToYa… and all I can give you… is a hug.” Before he could protest, KaiShi wrapped her arms around him, laying her head on his shoulder. Her touch was vibrant and warm, once again spreading the soothing sensation through his grief-tightened chest.

Zento didn’t pull away this time. His strength had been stolen by the sorrow… a sorrow that, for the moment, was put to rest by the unexpected care of another. They sat there together, her arms comforting him, watching as the sunlight began slipping downward, setting the violet treeline aflame.

After time had passed, KaiShi was the first one to speak, “I know that is it difficult for you to show your pain to others. I know what it is like to try to remain the strong leader for your people.”

He leaned back on his palms, sucking on his bottom lip for a moment. Allowing her to finish.

“But no one expects you to be an unemotional, unmoving mountain. Especially not right now,” she told him.

“We’ve lost so much,” Zento picked his words slowly. “I have no right to show my grief for the loss of one life… when so many others have died. When I was unable to protect our homelands… unable to–”

“Shhh…” KaiShi reached up and tapped him on the lips, deftly interrupting. “What is it with you guys… always thinking the weight of the world must be born upon your shoulders alone?”

“But I’m–”

“You’re a man, ZenToYa,” she intercepted quickly. “You’re a great man. A man with so much power… but at the same time, so much love. You’re more than just some bedtime story legend told to children in Nefol.”

He found no words to answer.

“You’re a man… and you have a right to be a grieving parent if you need to be. There is no shame in that.”

Zento turned his head slightly. She reached up and gently turned it back with the touch of one finger.

“You have earned the love of your people. Don’t shut us out in your time of grief,” she pleaded softly. “Let us help you… let us help TsuYa.”

He furrowed his brow with a questioning frown, “You don’t think it’s too late for that?”

“I’ve come to believe almost anything is possible,” she lifted her chin slowly. “TsuYa has the same strong spirit as his father. I don’t think he has given up the fight to return to us. That’s why he needs us to keep fighting as well.”

Tsu… would keep fighting…

The thought had not come to him before now. Not with his mind clouded with so much grief. But he knew that she was right… if there was anything left of his son’s spirit, TsuYa would never stop fighting.

Then, I must keep fighting, too…

“That’s right,” she whispered quietly, the twilight glow reflecting from her eyes. “We must all keep fighting. You’re not alone in this battle.”

Not knowing what else to say, Zento lowered his head, “Thank you.”

KaiShi nodded and slowly pulled away, getting to her feet. He could feel a puzzling tinge of reluctance as she did, as if it was so difficult to let him go.  But her face didn’t let it show.

Instead, she straightened, peering off into the sky, “Please come back to us when you’re ready. We still need you.”

Zento nodded, trying to reassure her despite his lack of words.

She said nothing more… she simply took a few steps away. Then her form was encased in a brilliant shaft of golden light. The stone outcropping shook under Zento’s palms momentarily, his breath stolen from his lungs as he stared up. Great Dragon wings unfurled above him, reflecting the sun’s dying glow in unspeakable grace and beauty.

Then KaiShi was gone, a golden Dragon winging off over the crest of the Spiral lands.

He trusted in pathetic, weak Earthians. It was his stupid mistake to believe in any of you.

“What are they?” AsaHi’s question came out as a breathy whisper.

Her green eyes fixed on the dancing lights that floated throughout the small bedchamber where Zemi was resting. Now and then, they alighted upon the hand-painted murals that scrawled across the rough golden stone walls. Sometimes they sparkled as they fell upon the reed-wood chairs that sat in the far corner of the room. When they passed through the sunlight that streamed through the rounded windows, they reminded her of tiny glowing snowflakes — the kind that one would see in the depth of Nefolian winter.

A winter I’ll probably never see again.

“I’m not sure,” SoYa answered, brows furrowed to match the uncertainty of his statement. Carefully, he reached one hand out, capturing a glowing speck within his palm to inspect it. “It feels warm… almost like it’s alive. Like it’s coming from…”

AsaHi looked down with realization, “Zemi!”

On a whim, the girl reached down and pulled back the covers that had been obscuring the resting form of the Dreigiau. Instantly, a cloud of tiny sparkles burst into the air, scattering thickly throughout the room. The Arweinydd, however, was pale and translucent — as if fighting to hold on to physical form.

Oh no!

“SoYa! Look at him!” she recoiled with a shaken face. “What’s happening?”

His voice was low with concern, “When Ceiswyr fell… something awful must have happened to him.”

“I think so, too.”

The two stood at the Patron’s bedside, green eyes filled with worry and strain. Zemi Dreigiau had been the one immovable force in their lives. The one, great protective power that could not be destroyed. They had been raised to believe nothing could overcome the Arweinydd that founded all the things that had once made up their world.

Nefol.

Ceiswyr.

After the fall of the Island nations, all they could do was escape to the Dragon’s Cleft. There, the people of the Dreigiau had passed out of their homelands in a wild flight, into the vast waiting unknown of the world beyond. It was only the Cleft that protected them now, keeping the shadows far on the other side.

He fought so hard… he’s lost so much just to protect us.

They had carried their weakened Patron into the Spiral lands - the lands of their former enemies. And there they had been greeted by allies who were torn apart by more terrible woes. The news that KoGuRai had been defeated… but TsuYa had risen to take his place as Zerom’s new Marked Champion. With this final blow, any strength that Zemi had possessed during the long exodus to the Spiral seemed to slip away, replaced with a heavy sorrow. And now, he lay motionless, his form weak and flaking away into rising shimmers carried off upon the warm Spiral winds.

-Stupid Earthians.- A deep growl filled their minds.

The hair on the back of AsaHi’s neck rose on end, her wings twitching with the unease. When she turned, she saw the head of the great white wolf, Zazo, at one of the open windows. As the She-Wolf watched them, there was something more harsh and cold in the light of her eyes. Bitter and unforgiving — as if she was blaming them for their good fortune… a fortune that TsuYa could not share.

“Lady Zazo,” SoYa’s voice wavered in respectful uncertainty. He attempted a bow, only to get caught up in his own jitters and nearly find himself sprawled out before the Arweinydd instead.

Undaunted, AsaHi caught his shoulder. Her lips pursed as she faced the gleaming white fangs and canine eyes. She began by stating the obvious, “Lady Zazo… something is wrong with Zemi.”

-What makes you say that?- the She-Wolf snapped at a nearby speck of light, sending it scampering across to the other side of the room.

“You can see for yourself,” the girl replied, a bit perturbed at Zazo’s indifferent reply.

-Yes. I see. He’s falling apart. And whose fault is that?-

“What?” AsaHi’s head jerked up, wings ruffled. Her fists balled at either side, bracing for the confrontation that appeared to be brewing. “What are you trying to say?”

-Zemi trusted you. You were supposedly his heaven-sent guide and protector. The one who would protect him against Chaos… or some drivel,- the She-Wolf snarled, jabbing her nose into AsaHi’s chest and giving the girl a backwards shove.

AsaHi caught herself on the side of the bed, a deep scowl spread over her face. Pushing herself back on her feet, she rearranged the stray locks of hair that fell out of place. Her gaze lifted, meeting the Arweinydd’s glare. Not backing down. “I did everything I could.”

-He trusted in pathetic, weak Earthians. It was his stupid mistake to believe in any of you. And now he’s paying the price for your failure.-

“Right now he’s sick and he needs our help!” AsaHi lifted her voice in retort. “If we don’t do something, he could die!”

-Stupid!- Zazo half barked. -Arweinydd do not die. They simply return to what they were before. Which is probably the best thing for Zemi to do right now. It’s the best thing for us all to do right now. Earthians are worthless creatures!-

“How could you say that!” the girl snapped back. “After all that time you spent with TsuYa. You had to have cared about him or why else would you have–”

-DO NOT MENTION THAT NAME IN MY PRESCENCE!- came the near-roar.

“Wait! Wait!” SoYa stepped forward with wide eyes, staring back and forth between the two. His palms were up, a look of mediation on his face. “This was no one’s fault! No one could have foreseen what was going to happen. But we have to pull together and do the best we can to help Zemi… and maybe even save TsuYa. It looks dark right now… but can’t give up hope for either of them!”

-There is no hope left in this world anymore.- Zazo’s tone was dark as she turned her head.

Before SoYa could reply, the She-Wolf was gone. Nothing but a sad scattering of shimmering light around the windowsill showed that she had been there at all.

For a long moment, the two of them stood in a stunned silence. Then before AsaHi realized what she was doing, her hands had wrapped around SoYa’s upper arm. Seeking his support and assurance.

SoYa’s voice was quiet when he finally spoke, “She feels like…”

AsaHi peered up, waiting for him to find the words to finish his thoughts.

“She feels like the embodiment of all the disappointment… bitterness… and hurt…”

The girl laid her cheek against his shoulder. There was very little that she could say, “I know.”

“Zazo must have really cared about Tsu,” SoYa swallowed. It was hard for him to talk about his brother now. To hear or say the name. But somehow, he managed to do it.

“I think she does. A lot of us still do,” AsaHi told him. “I think it’s just harder for the Arweinydd to accept that things haven’t gone well.”

“You’re right,” he agreed, one arm slowly moving to wrap around her shoulders. He had been having trouble with the wings at first… but he was learning how to adapt. “They’re not use to this. To fighting and losing. To struggling. They’ve never had to face defeat before. It’s easy for them to lose hope.”

“And you haven’t?” she asked.

“It’s not over yet,” SoYa answered. He reached out with one hand, capturing a drifting sparkle. It seemed somehow comforted, remaining cupped in his palm. “It’s not over for us… for Zemi… It’s not over for Tsu. We’re still alive. As long as I’m alive, I’m going to fight.”

“That sounds very….” AsaHi stopped herself before she said it.

“Tsu-ish?” he finished instead, squinting out the sunlit window. “If it were the other way around, he wouldn’t stop fighting until he brought me back.”

“I know,” she stroked her fingers through his curly hair. It was getting long now.

Just like Zento… and Tsu… More and more like them.

If he heard her thoughts, he didn’t show it. Instead, SoYa turned to look at her with a steady gaze, “We’re going to figure out how to help Zemi. He fought for us… it’s our turn to fight for him.”

A soft smile curved her lips. She didn’t know if it was the mind mage powers. Or just the sight of his confidence. But somehow, she felt like things weren’t so impossible. Not with SoYa there at her side.

“So where do we start?” she gave his pony tail a teasing tug.

SoYa opened his mouth, then closed it again. “I’m still working on that.”

AsaHi laughed softly.

On the other hand… same old SoYa.

He sat with her quietly for a moment, a time she presumed he was lost in thought. When he lifted his head, he spoke again, slowly, “We need to talk to someone who knows something about Arwienydd.”

“In what way?” she asked with a furrowed brow.

“Well, we don’t even know what it means that Zemi is sparkling away like this. Besides that it appears that he is not well,” SoYa looked at her. “You don’t go and heal someone before you know what’s making them sick, right? Why would we try to do that with Zemi?”

“No, I suppose not…”

“Is Zemi really all that different from us?” SoYa’s words hung in the air for a moment, as if they were the most important words he had ever spoken.

It was unthinkable. Unfathomable. So completely beyond comprehension.

How could it be possible that an Arweinydd — a creature of the starry heavens, a being of light and power, with abilities and knowledge so far beyond them all — be anything like they were? Creatures of the earth, bound to life and death. Bound to the world that they lived on. Struggling with comprehension and survival.

But as AsaHi peered over at the shimmering form of the Dreigiau… and saw the quiet, now familiar face lined with unusual pain… she realized that SoYa was right. That the Patron was now suffering, too. Was learning things unknown to his own kind. And in the midst of the hurt and emotion…

Zemi is becoming more like us.

The girl’s hands wrapped more tightly around SoYa’s arm. She wasn’t sure why the thought made her uneasy. AsaHi was always the one to challenge the status quo. She was never content to take things for face value… she wanted to find the truth behind everything, even as frightening and painful as the truth might be.

So why is this one truth so hard to accept?

“It’s going to be harder for him to accept, I promise,” SoYa’s voice brought her out the depths of thought.

“SoYa,” she chided, searching for anything to shift the conversation, “Stop listening in.”

The Athrylith gave a sheepish look and rubbed the back of his head. “Sorry. You were being loud.”

AsaHi sighed in return.

After a moment, SoYa approached conversation again, “I was thinking…”

“Hm?”

“We’re not getting much help from Zazo on this,” he informed her as if she didn’t already know. But then he continued, “So why don’t we go and talk to Zeni instead?”

“Zeni?” AsaHi echoed.

“Yes. I’ve talked with her before,” he answered. “She seems to be fairly friendly and concerned. She might be willing to help us if she realizes something is wrong with Zemi.”

“What do you think she can do?” the girl tapped her bottom lip with a frown.

“I don’t know yet. But it’s a place to start,” SoYa spread his hands.

“Do you know how to find her?”

“I’ve heard that Zeni’s befriended Suzume, actually, during the time Suzume was in Wyndor,” he nodded. “So that’s probably the first place to check.”

“Suzume…” AsaHi tilted her head.

It had been a while since she had seen the girl. Or Lucci. Though she had heard a lot of things about what had happened to the boy during his travels in the Outter Realms, it had been hard for AsaHi to believe any of them. It was hard for her to think of Lucci as anything more than the little boy that she remembered.

I suppose I should go and see for myself.

“Sound good to you?” SoYa asked.

AsaHi nodded, giving his hand a squeeze, “You’re so smart.”

He laughed shyly and an attempt at imitating one of his father’s comebacks, “That’s why you love me?”

The girl covered her mouth with a teasing giggle, “Keep working on it, SoYa.”

The Athrylith just looked all the more abashed.

Then taking a sobering deep breath, AsaHi turned back to peer at the unmoving Dreigiau. Tenderly, she pulled the blankets up around his shoulders and smoothed out his hair. The shimmering light seemed to react to her touch, if only a little.

“Hang in there, Zemi. We’re going to find help,” she told him. Then giving his face one last soft stroke, she turned, leaving the room with SoYa at her side.

A pair of luminous white wings now spread from his shoulders, stretching in a protective arch over NaDo's head.

Date: 31 Passes Ago

Okay… so things aren’t exactly going as planned.

ZenToYa ran, dodging through the long streaming vines and deep forest vegetation. Running away wasn’t usually his favorite call to action. But at the moment, any other choice was as good as suicide.

I forgot how good the Spiral warriors were.

Somewhere, not too far behind, the sound of fleet footfalls followed. Every now and then, a flash of gold gave away the position of one of the perusing warriors. And though Zento was ahead of them, it was obvious that their knowledge of the land was giving them an edge.

‘Dako! Blast it… where are you when I need you?

There was no one to blame but himself for overextending into unknown territory. The warriors of the Spiral were sharp and observant. There was little doubt that they had known of the incoming group from the other side of the Cleft far sooner than Zento would have liked.

KoGuRai… I hope you’ve mobilized. There is no way we can hold our ground against these numbers.

Zento’s mind raced back to the small group of men that he knew lay somewhere on the other side of the thick bramble. All were Nefolians who had joined him on this mission. A mission to find and bring back someone that had been lost to them — Zento’s good friend and brother in arms, JinRai.

It had been a little over a year ago when Zemi had sent Jin out on a similar expedition into the depths of the Spiral… only, Jin had not returned. The loss of a good friend had been tough on Zento. But had been even tougher on Jin’s son, KoGuRai. It was because of the boy’s pain and bitterness that Zento had allowed KoGuRai to join them on this mission with the goal of completing a full investigation of JinRai’s whereabouts.

Everything is always easier said than done, isn’t it?

Zento quickly banked to one side as the tree next to him took the brunt of numerous arrow shafts. As he dodged, a shadow dropped down on top of him, driving Zento to his knees.

One glance upwards gave him a good look at his assailant - a large built man of long golden hair and fierce slate-blue eyes. Eyes that were dead of emotion. Red spiral patterns were scrawled in war paint across his face. His clothes were threadbare and his weapon dented with much use. The metal glittered coldly in the dappled sunlight that filtered through the trees above.

“Sorry. No time for this!” Rocking forward, Zento planted his feet hard into the hollow of his attacker’s stomach, knocking him back. With the momentum, the white haired man sprang to his feet, gathering up his own weapon to meet the Spiral warrior’s swing.

I have to get back to the camp!

Zento gave a curse under his breath as he shoved his assailant back in yet another attempt to break away. The Spiral warrior lunged. Zento hissed sharply as he felt the sting of the blade slash through the back of his sword arm. But he didn’t stop running.

Not a good time to lose us of an arm!

He could feel the shadow of his attacker looming closer behind him. Catching up. The glint of the blade flashed out of the corner of his eye. Zento braced himself for the strike.

But it didn’t come.

Instead, he heard the sound of a heavy thud of a body hitting the ground. From somewhere above came a familiar quipping laugh. A laugh lined with uncertainty and strain. But one that Zento was more than glad to hear.

The white haired man stopped, panting for breath as he peered behind him at the sprawled and unconscious shape of his once attacker. A heavy rock laid not too far, the obvious tool of his defeat.

Then Zento peered up into the tree, “NaDo. What are you doing here?”

“Saving your posterior. What does it look like?” the scientist gave a wary smile down from the crook of the tree.

“It looks like you’re hiding, to be honest,” Zento answered, squinting back into the forest for a moment. Gauging how much time they had left.

“Hiding?” the quipping laugh came again as the man began to make his way down the tree, hand over hand. “Would the great and fearless NaDo of Nefol do something like that?”

Zento’s face soured. “Yes. Because he’s smarter than us sword-wavers that walk straight into the thick of battle.”

Hopping down the last foot to the ground, NaDo also gave a serious frown back at the shuffling of the forest. “Are there a lot of them?”

“Too many. We need to fall back,” the warrior replied. Then he asked, “Where is KoGuRai?”

“Gone,” the scientist answered with a frown.

“Then he’s already taken them back towards the Cleft? Good,” Zento gave a sigh of relief.

“No.”

“No?” the warrior answered. “Then where did he go?”

“Insane is probably the best word that comes to mind,” NaDo scowled even deeper.

Zento just cursed and renewed his rush back towards the camp. “What happened?”

The scientist scrambled to keep up with the other man’s longer strides. “He just flew into some sort of vengeance blood rage or something - claiming it was the Spiral people that killed his father. Nothing I could say would stay his hand. He rallied the rest of them straight into the enemy. I’ve never seen the likes of it in KoGuRai before!”

I had my suspicions.

The warrior gave a frown of his own. And yet again he found himself making excuses for the son of JinRai. “Losing someone close to you does funny things.”

“I didn’t find this especially funny, Zento,” NaDo intoned.

“I know what you mean.”

“I told you it was a bad idea to let KoGuRai come,” the scientist huffed, trying to keep the pace.

“The boy has a right to find out what happened to his father,” Zento answered shortly.

“Is it that…?” NaDo’s eyes slid over with a sly glance, “Or are you just tired of being blamed for the disappearance of Jin?”

“Maybe both,” the warrior made a final leap through the brush into the clearing where their camp had been only hours ago. The place looked as if it had been hit by a storm. Supplies, blankets, pots and pans were strewn everywhere. Not far in the distance, Zento could hear the sounds of battle.

KoGuRai… what are you doing? You’re going to lead them to their deaths!

NaDo must have read the look of horror on his friend’s face. One hand fell lightly on Zento’s shoulder, his voice concerned yet comforting, “Come on. Your men need you. We can turn this around Zento.”

Zento shook his head out slowly, “Maybe… with a miracle.”

“We’ve seen worse,” NaDo quipped, trudging towards the sound of battle.

“That’s debatable,” Zento followed, cautiously scouting ahead. “We’re going to get pressed by two groups before this is through. If things fall through, I want you to go and find Kudako and get yourself to the Cleft.”

“You’re talking crazy!” came the protest.

“Someone has to return to Nefol!” the warrior protested back.

“I came out here to find what happened to one friend… not to lose another!” NaDo answered sharply, fighting to lift his voice above the battle din that now filled the glade.

With no more time to speak, Zento drove forward, pulling his blade free with one hand. He could see flashes of white through the thick forest growth, indications of his men struggling in a battle that would be hard pressed to win. Despite all the training he knew they had, nothing could have prepared them for facing the soulless Spiral warriors.

Zemi… if you can hear me… your Champion needs a little back up here.

In the middle of the battle he could make out the furious form of KoGuRai. His maimed face was twisted in a fierce battle rage as he spun and slashed relentlessly. KoGuRai’s eyes held an intensity that Zento had seen before — in Jin’s eyes, during dangerous moments of unwavering determination.

“KoGuRai!!! We need to fall back!” Zento lifted his voice, trying to rise above the shouts of rage and dismay. Instead, he found himself the target of nearby Spiral warriors who had heard his call.

The slice on the back of his arm burned. His breath came in pained gasps as he lashed out, fending off the attacks that came from every side. The smell of blood and sweat filled his senses as he jostled against bodies of friend and foe in close-quarter battle. On every side he could hear the shouts and screams of his men — voices that were momentarily familiar before pain or death overtook them.

Is this it? Is this where it all ends?

Zento struggled to find his voice. To call the orders for retreat. To get his men to safety. But even if he had given the call, he knew they would be hard pressed to hear his command with the doom of battle pounding from all sides.

No… no, I refuse to go down here!

There was no other choice. It was either hold on to his secret and watch his people die… or face the consequences.

I have to…

He began to concentrate, drawing on strength from within. Tapping into the flow of the power he had kept locked away for so long. The power that was shunned and feared by those who could not understand the truth behind it — mind magery.

-WE CANNOT FIGHT THIS! WE MUST FALL BACK TO THE CLEFT!-

Zento’s command released over the glade, resounding within their minds. Even KoGuRai stopped in mid-swing, both hands still gripping the haft of his weapon. Zento didn’t have time to study their reactions - his full concentration was on dulling the wits of their attackers… just long enough to give them a moment to escape.

-GO! NOW!-

The Nefolians needed no more encouragement. With the command still ringing sharply, they fled into the forest. Sweat dripped from Zento’s brow as he stumbled behind, losing his speed to concentration. There were so many enemies to subdue. Though his will was strong, the Spiral warriors struggled viciously against his hold, quickly exhausting him.

Then a warm grip took Zento’s good shoulder, helping to carry him forward. Glancing to the side, the white haired warrior could see light reflecting from NaDo’s looking glasses as the scientist struggle to rush them out of the fray.

“ZenToYa… what did you just do?” his voice was quiet and shaken. No doubt, NaDo knew what he had just witnessed. But the expression on his face said that he didn’t want to believe it.

No one wanted to accuse their friend of being a mind mage.

Zento couldn’t answer. His mouth was dry. His limbs were heavy and sluggish. It felt like every inch of his body was burning with a cold fire. If it hadn’t been for NaDo, he didn’t know if he would have even been able to keep moving forward at all.

What’s happening to me…?

He had used mind magic before… but it had never had an after-effect like this.

Zento could feel the Spiral warriors rousing behind them as the last of his strength slipped away. Distantly, he heard their battle cries. Felt the earth shifting as they began their chase. Heard the air slice as they drew their weapons.

“Oh no! Oh no!” NaDo’s voice rose a fearful octave. The scientist gave a shout to one of the Nefolians, running not too far ahead, “KoGuRai! Help me! Zento’s weakening!”

The young warrior paused to glance over his shoulder. It took him but a moment to assess the situation - Zento half draped over NaDo’s shoulder. The smaller man struggling to carry their leader away from the raging danger that swarmed behind. The vicious faces of the Spiral warriors who charged headlong, thirsting for their death.

“Help us!” NaDo’s voice creaked, eyes wide.

Without a word. Without any other motion. The son of JinRai turned away from them and vanished into the forest.

“KOGURAI!”

Just as NaDo’s shout broke the air, Zento felt his knees buckle. His body convulsed, jerking upright even as he fell. He heard a scream that might have been his own as a wave of freezing pain wracked his limbs.

Then just as suddenly as it came, there was numbness.

A brilliant light.

The feeling of suspension and weightlessness.

-My Champion… it is time…-

Zento’s eyes opened as the familiar voice echoed through his mind. His lips parted, whispering a single word. “Zemi…”

As the world faded back into view, NaDo’s terrified face was the first thing he saw. The scientist was sprawled upon the ground, on his hands and knees, staring up with a mangled expression of shock and fear.

The Spiral warriors, too, had recoiled, staring dazed and unsure as light streamed across the glade. Light that slowly took the form of feathers.

Zento heaved a choking breath, gasping like someone who had just returned from the brink of death. Light tingled over his form. His senses had grown sharp, picking out each small motion… the crunch of grass under foot… the panicked heartbeat of NaDo… and the ragged breathing of the Nefolians who had stopped to watch from the shelter of the forest.

What’s happened to me?

As Zento stretched out his hands, he realized the light was coming from his form. And the feathers were his own, too.

Zemi?!

A pair of luminous white wings now spread from his shoulders, stretching in a protective arch over NaDo’s shaken form. Any wounds or weariness of the previous battles had been washed away. His mind and senses focused in a way he had never felt before.

-ZenToYa… you have become as you were meant to be. You have Awakened.-

Zento slowly turned to face the Spiral warriors. His blade glittered with reflected light from his white wings as they stretched wide. His eyes sharpened, brows drawing downward as he focused on the enemy. One hand reached up, surrounded by a brilliant blue flame.

-Now take my power… and protect our people.-

Even before he released the spell, the Spiral warriors were breaking formation. They scattered as the blast rocked the glade, sending trees groaning and rocks splintering in every direction. A warcry rose in Zento’s throat, a sound that rumbled through their minds like the roar of the Dreigiau.

-Well done, Zento!-

The Dreigiau’s voice faded, but the presence and power did not. The power that was gifted to the Arweinydd’s chosen Champion.

Awakened…

Voices around him drew him out of his thoughts. Voices of the others… of the Nefolians that he had fought to protect. And one voice in particular he could hear above all others.

“He’s becoming a monster!” KoGuRai exclaimed, green eyes wide, focusing on the wings that stretched from Zento’s shoulders.

“W-What?!” Coming back to earth was a painful jolt. His wings buckled back, depositing him with an unceremonious plop before them. It was all Zento could do to land on his feet.

But no one seemed to notice. They were all staring at him with open fear and mistrust. Their mutters echoed KoGuRai’s accusing words. The very people he had fought to protect… the very people that he led, taught and nurtured… now turned on him with cold eyes.

“Hold on! Do these wings really look that monstrous to you?” Zento found himself protesting, hands wide as he tried to approach them.

His answer came in the unsheathing of weapons. Some drawn in caution. Some leveled at him in warning.

“Stay back! We all felt what you did!” KoGuRai snarled, eyes reflecting as his naginata lowered into a battle position.

Zento took a stunned step back. His tone grew pleading as his gaze cast about for anyone that might hear him out… anyone who might look beyond the transformation. “NaDo!? NaDo, please! Tell them! It’s still me!”

The scientist stared up at him with cloudy eyes, confusion and doubt playing over his face. His mouth opened and closed as if trying to find a voice that would not come. But before NaDo could speak, the others began to move forward, weapons drawn.

“Mindsucking monster!” KoGuRai goaded them forward, two steps ahead of the other Nefolians.

“No… I can explain!” Zento stumbled back further. His breath came in hoarse gasps, his mind reeling to grasp the incredulous turn of events.

But there was little sway of sympathy to his pleas. Not even the hint of remorse on their faces as they advanced. Either their fear was just that great… or KoGuRai’s command of them was far stronger than Zento could have ever suspected.

Only one friendly voice rose above the advance — NaDo’s shout, “Zento, run!”

His white wings unfolded before he could think twice. With one great downward sweep, Zento found himself in the air. As the winds carried him higher, KoGuRai’s words faded into nothing more than furious demands from below. Those who had once been his people shrank to specks soon hidden by the branches of the overhanging trees.

With watery eyes, ZenToYa forced himself to fly. Fly and not turn back. And he knew that nothing in his life would ever be the same again.

He struggled and howled, face streaked with black tears as he fought.

Lucci didn’t realize that he had drawn his sword until he saw the quivering tip of the blade pointed at TsuYa. His hands were shaking. Tears stung his eyes. The whimper of Suzume rose to his ears from where the little girl hid behind his legs. JouKa sat, collapsed against a crate, her head covered with both arms, sobbing and hysterical.

KoGuRai had stood no chance against the Marked form of TsuYa. Already his remains were decaying, sinking into the puddle of black oozing blood. It flaked away into dark dust… nothing left but the sheen of silver helm that sat pinned under TsuYa’s heavy boot.

What do I do? What do I do? I can’t fight Master TsuYa! But… he’s become…

One Marked Champion had fallen… only for another to take its place.

Maybe that has been Zeromus’ plan all along? Maybe he never wanted KoGuRai as his Champion at all. He was just using him… like bait… to push Master TsuYa into turning Marked.

A low growl rose from TsuYa’s throat as pure black eyes focused on them. He reached down and picked the helm up, shaking it free from the clinging darkness.

And it worked…

Lucci readjusted his grip on the blade, keeping himself between the girls and the newly Marked Champion of Zeromus. Something in his chest ached terrible. He knew if he had only been a little faster… if he had gotten the sword to the Inner Realms sooner… that maybe TsuYa would have been spared this horrible fate.

But something else was there. Something that Lucci could sense still boiling, battling, struggling under the mask of shadows that had encased the warrior. Perhaps it was because TsuYa had become Awakened before Zeromus managed to take him. Or perhaps it was because his will and desire for freedom was simply that strong. No matter the reason, Lucci could feel it still, something of TsuYa was there. Aware.

And he was not attacking them.

Even, physically, TsuYa’s body fought to preserve itself. Though his hair and wings had grown dark, Lucci could see that there was still one light streak running through his bangs, a shock of white that fell down into his eyes. Something left from before.

Zeromus chose a difficult spirit to try to capture…

Somewhere in the distance he could sense it… the feeling of the Arweinydd Zazo and the Watcher Aur. They were coming, no doubt, called there by the release of energy, both Awakened and Marked. The smallest inkling of hope rose in Lucci’s chest. The thought that if there was something still left of TsuYa… that maybe he could still be saved. That he could be returned to his rightful form. That the Marked might be contained.

If I can just keep him here, peaceful, long enough for them to reach us.

“Master TsuYa?” Lucci’s voice quavered as he took the chance to lower his blade just a little. “Master TsuYa… do you remember me? Do you know who you are?”

Dark eyes watched the young Sygnus, a low growl the only answer.

Please Lady Zazo… come quickly…

Lucci took another chance, slowly moving forward. His breath came in frightened gasps, eyes never leaving the dark, Marked Champion. He froze as the growl grew into a fierce snarl. Then the snarl somehow managed to form words.

“LuShi… stay back! Stay away from me!” TsuYa grated through bared fangs.

“Master TsuYa?! Please… just stay calm… we can help you!”

“Nooo…” he moaned. His voice was very much like his voice always was. Just more frightened. More strained. “Nooo…. It’s over. I’m… one of them. I’m…”

“Not yet! You can’t give into him,” Lucci encouraged, taking another step forward. “As long as there’s part of you still aware, we might be able to–”

Suddenly, TsuYa broke out in a terrible yowl, clutching his head between clawed hands. He buckled over, screeching in pain. “Get him out of my head! Get him out of my heaaaaad!”

Lucci jumped back in shock as the warrior began to stagger around, slamming himself against the stone walls. Suzume gave a cry, huddling next to the glassy-eyed JouKa, covering her face with her hands. The young Sygnus reached forward, trying to intercept, only to be shoved away.

“AHHHHHHHHHH!!!” the half-scream, half-screech was chilling. The sound of a soul being consumed. “GET HIM OUT OF MY HEAD!!”

-TsuYaaaaaa!!-

The glowing form of the white wolf sprung over the pile of crates at the far end of the passageway. Running all out, her green eyes held a look of worry that Lucci had never seen before. With one great lunge she leapt up, landing square on TsuYa’s back. It took all of her force to wrestle him down and keep him pinned, even as large as she was.

He struggled and howled, face streaked with black tears as he fought. Choking and gasping, the words became less words as the darkness began to twist and taint his mind.

-TsuYa! No! Hold on to me! I can fix this! I can fix this! I promise! Just don’t go!- Frantic, the she-wolf shoved her muzzle down into his face. As if her will and words alone would be enough to save him.

“Nooo! Noooo!!” He responded with terrified hisses and raking claws. If she had been a physical being, he would have shredded her face in his struggle. “Stay away from me! Stay away from meeee! Arweinydd! Stay away from meeeeeeeee!”

-TsuYa! Please! It’s me! It’s Zazo!-

But her words could not comfort his panic as his body began to convulse again. More spikes began to shred through his skin… the transformation slowly growing worse.

Aur and Oren arrived, not far on the heels of the she wolf. The Watcher stood for a long moment, observing the pleading Arweinydd and the struggling Marked. And for the first time, something like true emotion washed over his face. Pity. Sorrow. Sympathy. He seemed to be having trouble breathing as he gathered up Suzume in his strong arms, covering her crying face protectively.

Oren had also come quickly, his ruddy face horrified as he recognized the Marked creature before him. Without so much as a word, he retrieved JouKa’s limp form and carried her away. He murmured quiet words of concern under his breath as he gently brushed the hair out of the winged girl’s face.

-He’s not calming down!!- Zazo was frantic as she fought to keep the Marked pinned under her paws.

“LET ME GO!” TsuYa’s voice cracked, half shrieking as his back arched in pain. With a gurgling sound, he turned the dark claws on himself, leaving long trails of dark gashes along his face and chest.

The Arweinydd gave a defeated cry, watching as he maimed himself, shoving her nose between his head and his claws. Doing everything she could to stop the unstoppable. Finally, with a great heave, TsuYa cast her off. The moment he was free, he leapt to his feet, wings spread wide. One hand clamped around the grip of the scythe that had been left, lying in the street.

-Tsu!!!-

“Sta..aay… baack…” he hissed, holding the scythe in front of him as he crouched, ready to fight.

-Please don’t do this. Please… come back with me. Zem and I… we can fix this! You have to believe me, Tsu!-

But the Marked Champion could only reel back, face lined with pain. The howl escaped his lips again, as he was driven to mindlessness, “He’s in my head! Get him out of my head!”

“Lady Zazo! Be careful!” Lucci gave a warning call. It was hard to tell if TsuYa was going to actually use the weapon - of his own free will or not.

Before either of them could say a word, the black wings spread wide into the air. With an agile leap, the Marked warrior launched into the sky, dark scythe held between his fists. One bound had him on top of the nearby roof. The next cast him up towards the dimming clouds.

“Waaait!” Lucci called.

But it was no good. The Marked instinct was driving him. With nothing to lose. Nothing left to hold him, TsuYa fled, leaving nothing but a stream of black along the stone wall.

For a moment, it seemed as if Zazo might follow. But as the winged figure grew smaller and more distant over the lilac trees, she did nothing but stand and watch. With a startling sound, the she wolf threw her head back, shattering the air with a long, mournful howl.

Lucci, too, could only stand and watch as shock numbed his body. Realization began to flood over him. Realization followed by a deep, rending sadness.

They had lost Ceiswyr. They had lost TsuYa. But they had not yet lost the war.

I still have the sword.

Lucci looked down at the flat of the blade. The silver steel reflected his image coldly. Suggestively. And he knew exactly what he needed to do.

No matter what. I’m going to pay him back for all the people he’s hurt.

The young Sygnus’ hand tightened on the blade’s grip.

I’m going to destroy Zeromus.

The little winged girl was safe, cradled against his chest.

“TsuuuuYaaaa!” KoGuRai’s face contorted in an animalistic snarl. His dark eyes focused sharply on the warrior, full of hate and fury.

“Did you forget about me?” TsuYa smirked. He coolly wiping his blade off on the edge of his coat only to find, to his dismay, that the black ooze ate right through the cloth.

“Turn around and walk away. This is between me… and LuShi,” the Champion sneered.

“Oh? Then why are you dragging little girls into this? Are you trying to break your record for hostage taking… the coward that you are,” he sneered back.

This time… this is it. This time… you’re not walking away alive, KoGuRai. We already know your tricks. It’s time for this to stop.

TsuYa ground his heel against the stone, poised and ready to strike. KoGuRai took a step back, nursing his wounded shoulder, both fists clamped tightly around the haft of his naginata. But before any blows could be exchanged, a shout rang out across path.

“TsuYa! TsuYa, wait!!”

The warrior gave a quiet curse under his breath. Things were about to get even more complicated.

“JouKa..?” KoGuRai paused, turning at the sound. It was strange how the Marked Champion could throw out scathing threats with the same voice that could sound so concerned.

The winged girl rushed out into the center of the fray, eyes wide as she stared between them. Then she stopped, peering straight at KoGuRai for a long, long time. For once, she seemed completely lost for words.

KoGuRai also stared at her, lowering his weapon just a bit. The silence between them was awkward and heavy. Finally, he took a step towards her. “JouKa… I’ve finally found you. Have you come to me at last?”

TsuYa made a blech face.

“KoGu… what… what… ‘ave you done?” she shook her head, taking a step back.

“Wait. Wait, JouKa. I can explain everything… just listen…” he approached, with hands wide in a gesture that spoke of harmlessness.

“Explain? Explain… what? The village ya razed? All of the people ya killed?” her voice was quiet, nothing more but a shaken whisper. “‘Ow can you possibly explain somethin’ like that?”

“Village…?” his face grew as pale as a Marked complexion could. “No… that wasn’t me, JouKa! I swear!”

“Then who was it, KoGu? Someone that looked like you and yer pet Esgyll?” she retorted hotly.

“If you’d just let me talk, I could tell you.”

“Then tell me about Mister NaDo. And about takin’ him ‘ostage. Splittin’ his back straight open. Tell me that wasn’t something that ya did, KoGuRai?” JouKa gave him a sick, pained look.

“JouKa…”

“You didn’t ‘ave to ‘eal those people — I did!” she snapped, not allowing him a moment of explanation. “I saw what came of it all… and I just can’t believe…”

KoGuRai fell silent, looking down at his fists, gripping the haft of his naginata. His hands were shaking as if fighting back some kind of internal violence.

“What’s ‘appened to you?” tears shown in her eyes. “I wanted to believe in you. But after what I’ve seen, all I can think is… you really ‘ave become a monster!”

The Marked Champion’s head snapped up with a bitter glare. The expression that had been concerned and shocked had turned cold and distant.

“I see what’s going on here,” KoGuRai’s voice grew low and gravely. His dark eyes shifted from JouKa to TsuYa and back again. “TsuYa’s turned you against me, hasn’t he? You’ve fallen for him while I was gone. You’ve fallen for him and you’ve betrayed me to him, haven’t you?”

“What? KoGu… what in the name of the Light are you talkin’ about?” she shook her head with a frustrated and confused look.

“You know what I’m talking about!” before she could pull back, his hand shot out, grabbing her roughly around the wrist. The air crackled red, furious Chaos. KoGuRai was losing himself. “All this time I was trying to find you again. I was promised that he would give you to me and we would take Nefol together! But you’ve ruined it all! You’ve run off with TsuYa!”

“KoGu!!” JouKa’s voice raised an octave, for the first time, real fear shown in her eyes as he loomed huge above her. “It’s not like that at all!”

“Are you Promised to him!?” KoGuRai almost roared, fangs gleaming as he pulled her closer.

“NO! KOGU! Yer ‘urtin’ me!!” the winged girl yanked back in pain. TsuYa could see the strength of the Marked Champion’s fist closing tighter around the girl’s arm. And he knew exactly how strong a Marked could be.

“STOPPIT!!” TsuYa leapt forward with a snarl of his own, slamming between JouKa and KoGuRai. “LET HER GO!”

The winged girl stumbled back, knocked free from the terrible grip… just at the same moment the Marked claw slashed out, leaving long, bloody gashes straight through TsuYa’s shoulder. He gave a choking gasp at the unexpected pain, dodging just as the claw came for him again.

Somewhere in the distance he heard JouKa’s scream and the choked cry of Suzume. The world wavered and shifted around him as his senses tunneled. Fury began to burn within. Everything focused on the dark winged figure of the Marked Champion before him. His rival. His enemy. One who would kill and destroy in order to steal everything that his family had sacrificed everything for - Nefol… his people… his friends…

I won’t let you hurt them!

KoGuRai bore down on him with blade in hand, a dark maelstrom of hate. His wings stretched wide, the twisted taint of Chaos choked the air. Animalistic insanity and bloodlust had transformed the Marked Champion’s face - if there was anything left of the son of JinRai, it was impossible to see it.

TsuYa floundered back, barely deflecting the blows that came again. And again. And again. His shoulder was in shreds, wounds open and burning with the acidic nature of the Marked attacks. His chest grew tight, breath rasping in his lungs as he fought to keep his feet under him.

I… can’t. I can’t hold up under this! He’s so strong!

Pain exploded along his left side. TsuYa watched, to his horror, as dark crimson fountained from KoGuRai’s blade as it tore into his body. His cry was wretched… so unlike the warrior he had fought to be. For years and years and years. All the training and hardship. Everything that he had strove to be… to be like his father. His brother. The ones that people respected.

And I will die like this… on the end of this monster’s blade…?

Eyes darkening, TsuYa’s face broke into a snarl of his own.

I refuse!

With an agonized groan, he pulled himself off of the point of the naginata. KoGuRai loomed over him, a smug look of triumph stretched over his face. The battle was won in his mind. He was merely toying with TsuYa now… doing everything he could to make the warrior’s death as shamed and futile as possible.

That will be your biggest mistake!

Distantly, he heard the sound of voices. JouKa and LuShi calling frantically. TsuYa could only watch with horrified, blurry eyes as Suzume rushed out between, little wings unfolded. She darted in, face angry and determined, yelling at KoGuRai as loud as her child-voice allowed.

Kid! What are you doing!?

Something grew deathly cold within his chest as he saw the glint of KoGuRai’s blade flash. The naginata lifted into the air, poised above the child’s head. So deliberate. The Marked Champion’s expression did not change… as if it was nothing more to him than swatting away a meaningless irritation.

Suzume!!

Fingers digging into the ground, TsuYa drove himself back up on his feet. He couldn’t breathe. He couldn’t speak. His body wasn’t responding. Everything felt so cold, as if all the heat had rushed out of his body.

I WON’T LET YOU!

A dazzling white light suddenly flooded the world. In the brilliance of the flash, he could make out KoGuRai reeling back, wincing against the blinding radiance. Suzume gave a shout, falling back in surprise, but unharmed.

His arms were around her. Just that sudden. TsuYa hadn’t realized he had the strength to move. But he was there. The little winged girl was safe, cradled against his chest.

Suzume stared up at him with awe. TsuYa could see his reflection in her dark eyes… he realized that the light was coming from him. Her voice was hardly a whisper when she spoke, “Wings…”

What…?

Stretching wide around him were wings of luminous white. Wings that belonged to him.

No way…! I’m…

Wings that looked exactly like Father’s. So much like Father’s, in fact, that TsuYa almost gave a shout for joy. For once, he could feel it… the endless possibilities. The potentials within himself. That he could be exactly what he had always dreamed of being. What he had worked so hard to become.

I’m Awakened!! I’m-

The sharp sound of a crack shattered his world. Pain. Terrible burning pain suddenly rushed through every inch of his body. The look of delight and awe on Suzume’s face shifted instantly to fear. With a strangled sound, he released the winged girl, stumbling away from her.

“TsuYa!! TsuYa!! Are you alright!?” she called to him.

He tried to answer, but no words would come. Nothing in his throat but a low, terrible growl. It bubbled and frothed its way out of his mouth, then shattered the air with an animalistic shriek. He clutched frantically at the source of the sudden pain, at his throat, just under his shirt. His fingers came away bloody. Blood that slowly turned black. Black like Marked blood.

NOO! NOOO!

Where Aur’s protective medallion had once hung around his neck, there was nothing left but a warped piece of blackened metal. And he realized, in horror, that under the pressure of his Awakening, the amulet had broken. It was destroyed.

PLEASE NO!!

And with it, his protection against the darkness had fled. Not even the power of Awakening seemed to be enough to protect him.

Please… please help me…

It felt like something was tearing him from inside out. His blood at once burned and froze. His body trembling as he convulsed, dropping him to his knees. He tried to cry out in agony, but nothing came except hisses and growls.

-No one can help you now, TsuYa… You are MINE.-

TsuYa’s flesh had darkened to grey, spotting black. His skin began to split as dark spikes of black burst through. A sharp rip as his coat gave way — his form growing and expanding far beyond his normal size. Black blood streamed from the bubbling wounds… from his eyes… his mouth… his nose… the Mark along his cheek. The darkness bled into his hair. Along the lines of his wings… until black feathers dripped with thick ooze.

And the terrible voice sounded in his mind.

-My Champion… greatness waits for you. Now come to me. Come to me…-

He fought it with every last bit of strength in him. Snarling and shrieking against the voice that invaded his thoughts. Everything was a blur. The world spun dizzy around him as the pressure of Chaos closed in on him. The sound of metal clashing, shrieks and battle were so distant and far away.

When he finally found breath again, it was rasping hisses. He stared down at his hands - now nothing more than beastly claws. And the thick black blood that ran over them. He realized the blood was not his own. Looking down at the ground, he saw the mangled and motionless form of KoGuRai’s body, the silver helm bent under the heel of his boot.

Is he… is KoGuRai… dead..?

Sickness welled up in the pit of his stomach. Sickness as he saw the blurred and twisted reflection of his face in the smudged sheen of the metal helm. KoGuRai was not rising. A pool of black spread around him where he lay in the dust.

TsuYa had won, he realized. He had taken the life of his enemy. But he had lost himself in return.

Her wings. They unfolded from her shoulders, growing solid and strong against the winds.

They were falling, head down, into the blanket of rumbling darkness below. In some areas, the clouds had exploded upwards, massive pillars that spun into the sky. That was where the Islands of Ceiswyr had fallen through, leaving a trail of stone and dust in their wake.

AsaHi knew that under those clouds lay the cold, distorted earth that had once been the beautiful lands of the Inner Realms. Her homelands, the places where she had once traveled and loved, were devoured by darkness and Chaos.

And now, the one safe place in all the world, the Islands of Ceiswyr, were gone. The loss had been tremendous… not only within her heart, but also to its Patron. Weakened by the blows of Chaos, the Dreigiau was falling. And she was falling with him.

“Zemi!!! Zemi, wake up! Please!” tears streamed down AsaHi’s cheeks. She clutched at his chest, shaking him with what little strength she had left. But he could not hear her. She couldn’t even feel a trickle of awareness… not even the hint of a connection between them.

I’m so sorry, Zemi… I’m so sorry…

The Chaos had struck at the heart and soul of the Arweinydd… and had stolen it away. He was not waking up. And she didn’t know what to do.

I wasn’t able to save you… I wasn’t able to stop the Chaos from taking everything. In the end, Zeromus still won.

AsaHi’s breath came in panicked gasps as the air grew colder. She hugged close to Zemi’s chest, partially in fear… partially in resolve.

But, no matter what happens to me… I won’t leave you here alone… I promise Zemi.

The cold was seeping into her skin, a chill that felt like death had already come. She clamped her eyes shut, shivering all over, her hands feeling numb with the cold as she tried to keep her grip. But she couldn’t feel anything beneath her fingers anymore. And her breath was coming hard… as if air had no meaning.

AsaHi gasped.

She gasped again.

Am I dying!?

The world was denying her breath.

Zemi! Help me!

She was suffocating!

So cold!

She wanted to scream. But no voice came. It was as if she didn’t exist at all.

I can’t… I can’t…!

She felt as if her lungs were ready to explode.  One second more would be the end.

ZEMI!!!

Light filled her vision. A beautiful, warming light that came from within. It shown from between her fingers. Bursting from her torso… along her shoulders. Spreading out from her back. A soft, translucent white that slowly… slowly began to condense.

Soft, glowing white.

Feathers?

To her shock, AsaHi saw feathers. As she looked beyond, she saw even more.

Wings…?!

Her wings. They unfolded from her shoulders, growing solid and strong against the winds. Strength slowly spread back through her limbs. Breath rushed into her lungs again. Feeling returned to her fingers. And her vision cleared…

She could see, now. Not with the same eyes she had once before. But really and truly See.

I’m… Awakened?

As the realization swept over her, she shivered. The world came back into focus. And though only a space of a few seconds had passed since she crossed the line of Awakening, the clouds below were coming closer and closer.

AsaHi discovered very quickly that her wings knew exactly what to do, even if she had never flown before. She gripped the front of the Dreigiau’s shirt, bracing herself with renewed determination, and spread her wings wide. Much to her surprise, they began to slowly descend.

It’s almost as if… Zemi doesn’t weigh anything at all.

Looking down at his pale form, she could only feel worry at that discovery.

Please… Zemi… hold on a little longer. I’ll get us to the ground.

Her wings swept back, softly parting the darkness of the clouds as they came through the bank. The winds howled, growing more vicious, throwing them around in the rise and fall of turbulence. Though her wings burned and ached from the strain, AsaHi held them fast, fighting through the storm… never letting go of the Dreigiau’s limp form.

Finally, they broke through the line of dark clouds and the lands below came into full view. It was raining across the broken earth. Everywhere AsaHi looked, rubble and cracked pieces of the Islands were strewn, leveling the forests that had once been there. The rain was cold and fitting, but it made flight more difficult for her. The further away she came from the moment of Awakening, the more she found herself floundering and struggling.

The sound of people and Dragons rang out across the desolation. AsaHi turned her flight in that direction. Slowly, she was feeling exhaustion washing over her body. She knew that soon she would have to land, whether it was safe or not. So when she caught sight of the first Dragon, she doubled flight speed, heading straight for it.

“Hey!! Hey! We’re over here! Someone!!” AsaHi shouted, so overjoyed that she forgot the danger of flying close to the forest. Before she knew it, tree branches whipped her from every direction, catching up in her wings, tearing out feathers and leaving a trail of white behind her. “OW!! OW!! OWW!!”

AsaHi’s first landing was very unceremonious… a stumble and a flop, careful not to fall on Zemi. Just glad to finally be back on the ground again… even if her whole body stung and bled.

Voices surrounded her. Voices in awe and sorrow. When AsaHi looked up, she found herself within a ring of battered and haggard faces. The winged soldiers of Ceiswyr stared down at her as if they had never seen another Awakened before. Then their gaze fell upon the unmoving form of the Dreigiau.

“Someone! Please! We need a healer!” the girl exclaimed with little patience for their staring. “I think Zemi is hurt!”

That seemed to be enough to kick people into action. The shout went up for a healer – not that there weren’t enough other people that probably needed healing there. But coupled with the words “Zemi is hurt,” a response came fast. The surrounding group of winged men parted as a familiar figure rushed in with wide green eyes.

“SoYa?” AsaHi had forgotten that besides being an Athrylith, he was also a practiced healer.

He seemed to be unscathed from the battle – no doubt that KaiShi had taken good care of him. But his hands were sticky with blood of other men… and she knew from the tired light in his eyes that he had been already making rounds to heal the wounded the best to his ability.

“Zemi!” he gave a shout, leaping over the rubble to get closer. His eyes were fixed at the impossibility of it all. That their Patron, the Dreigiau, could be lying there, unmoving upon the broken remains of the once proud city of Ceiswyr. His voice came again in a whisper, “No… what happened?”

“The Chaos…” AsaHi told him, face lined with pain. “Zeromus. He struck down the Islands. And when he did, it hurt Zemi, too.”

“I… don’t know what I can do for him…” SoYa knelt, already feeling across Zemi’s chest for any sign of wounding. Of course, he would find nothing there. The wounds that the Arweinydd bore were not physical. And AsaHi realized it was true — there was probably little that any healer could do for him.

AsaHi knelt down on Zemi’s other side, placing her hands over top of SoYa’s. Her wings unfurled slowly, cupping over the three of them protectively. For the first time, the Athrylith stared up, seeing them. He had been so focused on Zemi… and she had not been displaying her wings too obviously. Until now.

A whoosh of shocked sound passed between SoYa’s lips. His eyes widened as his mouth fell open in that dumbfounded way he often had. For a long time, he just stared, and AsaHi could see her reflection in the clear light of his eyes.

For the first time, the girl began to wonder… worry… about what her Promised would think of it all.

“A… A…” he stuttered.

This isn’t starting out well…

Finally, SoYa shut his mouth, and tried again. “AsaHi… you’re… a…”

“A really bad flyer… I know,” she joked with a soft face, trying to put a few of her disheveled feathers back in place.

“N…no… I..”

AsaHi lifted her hand, placing a finger on SoYa’s lips. “I’m not important right now. We have to take care of Zemi. And the people…”

He blinked before slowly nodding, his eyes still wide as he stared at her. “Yes… we do. Father… said we need to move… the troops as far away as we can get. We need to leave… the Inner Realms.”

“Leave?” she breathed, the word full of sadness.

SoYa wiped his face on his sleeve. “We’ve lost this battle… if we stay here, we’ll be hunted. We have to try to make for the Spiral.”

Tears suddenly sprang in AsaHi’s eyes as the impact of his words struck her.

That’s it? Just like that? After all we’ve done… how hard we’ve fought…

“We’re not giving up yet, AsaHi,” SoYa reached out to her gingerly. As if he wasn’t sure if he should touch her. “We just have to get to safety.”

She nodded and looked down, “Do you think it’s a good idea to move Zemi… when he’s like this? I mean, taking him out of the Inner Realms. Would that make him worse?”

A raspy, rough voice gave a cough then a mutter, “You talk about me like I’m already gone…”

AsaHi and SoYa both stared down in amazement. Zemi peered back up at them, his eyes hazy, face lined with pain and weakness. But he still managed to smile.

“Zemi!” AsaHi breathed in a long happy sound of relief. Then before she knew what she was doing, she had thrown her arms around his neck, hugging him fiercely.

SoYa watched awkwardly. Though his voice was thick, it was obvious that he was glad that the Dreigiau was reviving. “Zemi… are you going to be okay?”

“It was only a little Chaos. I’ll pull through,” the Arweinydd told him with a slight wink. But when he tried to push himself up on his palms, he found he needed help to sit up.

“Zemi… you have to take it slow,” AsaHi advised.

The Dreigiau, however wasn’t listening. He was staring up at her wings, running his finger along one of the feathers. There was a distant look of delight on his face. The girl almost could swear she heard a soft purr in his throat.

“Zemi?” SoYa interrupted with a frown.

“Oh? Yes! Well…” the Arweinydd shook his head out. Then he glanced over at the Athrylith, voice cracking as he spoke. “Tell your father to follow through. Ready everyone that can travel. He’s right… we can no longer stay here. We will take shelter in the Spiral, and from there, figure out what has to be done.”

SoYa nodded grimly. Then he turned and disappeared into the amazed crowd of winged people that stood watching over the Dreigiau.

And at the risk of being misunderstood… I do love you, Zemi Dreigiau!

Please… let me be strong enough…

AsaHi gripped the thick white mane in both of her hands, laying flat against the huge white Dragon’s back. All at once she felt very tiny and very vast - she was both the rider and the Dragon. She could feel and breathe the world with the immense senses of the Dreigiau. But at the same time, she knew that she was just the small, clinging and frightened girl on his back.

Please let me know what to do if Chaos comes…

Dragons and monsters swept around them on every side. Streaks of red flame. Flashes of dark lightning. Blood-freezing screeches and ear-shattering roars. All of it moved around her with an unreal quality.

Her mind flickered back to thinking about SoYa… where he was. What he would do through the battle. She was certain that KaiShi would never allow any harm come to him. But the girl still couldn’t help but worry about him. Afterall, Brunswik’s reports had not been exaggerated.

The Esgyll were far bigger and more dangerous than the ones that she had seen before. Obviously, they had been tweaked to better enable them to fight against Zemi’s Dragons. Everything had been altered — from their size, speed, to their new ability to shoot crackling dark lightning. And it made AsaHi all the more afraid.

Zeromus is learning how to enhance his monsters. Learning from his mistakes. He’s adjusting and changing things.

She probably shouldn’t have been surprised by this. Afterall, Zeromus was once an Arweinydd, like Zemi. Though, unlike the Trine, he was wickedly clever… using his power and influence to take control, consume and twist everything he came in contact with.

And now they were flying straight into the grasps of that darkness. Straight into the core of Chaos itself. Though how they could challenge such a power, AsaHi didn’t know. Their last struggle against Zeromus had only ended when Zemi fled the battle. Anything that he had attempted to do against the power of Chaos had only swayed his own energies towards destruction.

How do we fight it… how? Even if it is just to hold Chaos back for a little longer?

A crack of sharp lightning struck so close that AsaHi could feel the electricity. The sky had grown restless, dark and churning, everything circling around them. The girl realized that they had flown far from the reaches of the main battle, deeper into the heart of the shadows where Zemi was the only point of light that she could see.

Her slender hands gripped Zemi’s mane as she fought to keep the pressing fear from overwhelming her spirit. Everywhere surrounding her was a feeling of terrible dread and hopelessness. That which would consume light and beauty.

That’s when she realized that Zemi hadn’t spoken a word in a long time. In fact, despite all of her conflicting emotion, he had sent her no feeling of support or comfort.

“Zemi! Where are we going?” her voice was tiny in the midst of the violent cloudbursts. Lightning cracked again, so close to striking that it was deflected from Zemi’s own personal energy shields.

-We have to stop this.-

The girl was startled at the sound within her mind. It was the first time in a long time that Zemi had spoken to her through thoughts rather than words. Leaning forward, she could make out the wedge-shape head of the Dragon, pointing skyward.  Something about it looked different. More feral… less Zemi.

Chaos is drawing him in! And I couldn’t even feel it!

Fear leapt into her heart as she realized, she couldn’t feel much at all from Zemi. AsaHi instantly leaned across his neck, pulling hard on his mane, fighting to pull his attention away from the forces she knew were battling inside of his heart, “No! Zemi! Wait! We can’t take on the Chaos one on one! You know that!”

-I can stop this! I am Zemi Dreigiau! Zeromus will NOT threaten my people while I stand idle and watch!-

His lips curled back in a snarl, wings stretching ever wider, pushing them ahead faster.

“Zemi!” the girl began to feel desperate. “This isn’t about power, remember! We’re not supposed to take on Zeromus. We’re supposed to protect the Islands until Lucci gets here!”

- I have the power. Even if I am Rhoi’r, I am no weakling! I do not need to rely on the strength of a mere boy-Sygnus to win my battles!-

“No one is questioning your strength, Zemi!”

-Zeromus thinks that he can take my people from me!-

“He can’t take anything from you Zemi… we choose to stay with you. We choose to fight with you. But neither you nor Zeromus can own us,” she told him, fighting to keep a level voice. “We talked about that, remember?”

-I will own and take what I very well please! And no Earthian will tell me different!- The Dreigiau responded with a deep rumble that shook her to the marrow.

“Zemi! Listen to yourself!” this time she did raise her voice. “You’re starting to sound exactly like Zeromus! Is that what you want to be? No better than him?!”

This isn’t working! He’s not listening to me!

-Who do you think you are to challenge the will of the Patron of Nefol!- The huge white Dragon let up a tremendous roar, displeased by her warnings and words.

His flight had become erratic, his mind shut away from her connection, reaching for the call and temptation of the Chaos. As much as dismay filled her, she knew she had to fight it where he could not… that she couldn’t take his words to heart. That it wasn’t Zemi talking now.

“I’m someone who cares about you, Zemi. Someone who cares a lot,” AsaHi grit her teeth, hands struggling to keep hold. It almost felt as if the howling winds around them were trying to rip her from the Dreigiau’s back.

-You don’t care about me. You love SoYa!-

The voice in her head was so bitter. So accusatory. She had never heard Zemi speak with so much spite and anger. Stunned, AsaHi found herself without words. Stung, she fought to blink back the tears in her eyes. She had no idea that Zemi was still so angry about the situation … he had led her to believe that things would be okay. That he had accepted it.

-Then what I say is true.-

“No… no… Zemi… I.. I do care about you!” she choked on the words. “And I’m really scared for you right now.”

-Prove it.-

AsaHi straightened, a panic filling her. The last thing that she had expected coming there was for her motives and feelings to be questioned. “If I don’t care about you, then why am I here?”

A rumble was her response. As if the Dreigiau was trying to find a retort against it.

“It’s safer to go with SoYa… instead of facing down the void of Chaos with an Arweinydd who is about to lose his head!” her voice grew louder in her ears. “So why would I choose to put myself into a position where I know that I’m going to be the only thing between you and the Chaos?”

Another rumble.

“I’m just an Earthian, like you said before. Don’t you think I