MITRASH RPG

[Angel]

It was a hot day; I was alking towards the King's City, Matherauimme through the Salvan's Plain aimlessly. I need to get to the Sanctuary as soon as possible to meet someone by the order of my Convent.

Angel: Argh.... hot, hot, hot!! Why do I have to be the messenger? This Sun is ruining my precious skin  

     It was almost sunset when Angel reached King's City. The city was an amazing place where the Palace of Margandee was builds for the King. The Sanctuary, a Grand Cathedral was also here. This place is always crowded with people and merchants and vendors can be found along the streets of King's City.

Angel: Fuh.... at last ... I am so hungry... they better have something for me to eat at the Sanctuary.... =.=;;

Merchant: Hey, lady! Want to buy Dragon Hide's Glove? Very cheap, good protection, only for 800,000 Miis (Mitrash's currency).

Angel: 800,000? I bought mine for 500k only!!! You cheater!!

Merchant: Ah, you did? When was that?

Angel: Last 2 weeks

Merchant: Ah, I see, I see ...... *runs away fast*

Angel: Ceh, low class cheater..  

: Er, excuse me..

Angel: ?

: Are you a priest?

Angel: Yes, why?

: Can u please heal me?

Angel: *Looks at the stranger from head to toe* Wow, he sure looks bad sure.. HEAL

: Thanks. Here, for you, I hunt for it but I was lucky, so I have an extra one. *holding a Luminous Hat*

Angel: Wow! You sure is lucky.Thanks.

: No problem. See ya!

Angel: Chao..

                                                    ~*~*~

     Angel reached the Sanctuary 20 minutes later. she finds her way to the Great Hall to seek consultation from the Bishop.

     The inn was deserted, save a few merchants that forgot to read the sun and ended up napping an hour or two pass their 'supposed' departure time. Being a station inn, the only people that ventured this far out were merchants bound for Matherauimme, or King's City. Occasionally, they get an adventurer or two but now all they had were late merchants and I. And although I enjoy an adventure, I don’t take it as a profession. Taking a bite from an apple I held on my felt, I took another glance at the parchment that I had received earlier this morning. It read:

'To the sad excuse for a Keeper,

     I trust you had a hard time getting out of the Paygroth forest. But that was expected. With your skills, if you are reading this, consider yourself lucky. But that was expected too, because your are my student. Still, there's still no way you'll beat me! Try again in another 200 years.

     Anyway, considering your lack of skills and experience, the Council has decided to give you a Task (its also because you're the only free Keeper we have).

     You are to head to Matherauimme and reach the city by the full moon. There you'll seek out Convent's chosen priest/priestess. Further information on your Task will be available to you once you have completed the said orders.

Good luck. You'll need all of it.'

     Bath in anger, I was about to incinerate the parchment with a Fireball when my eyes spotted some fine print below the message. It read 'P.S: Don’t destroy the letter. You'll need it to proceed with your Task.'

     "That egoistic old man!" I thought aloud, "First he insults me then he tries to fail my Task by writing the warning... in FINE PRINT! When I get back, I'm going to introduce him to a whole new world of pain... ElderG style!"

     As I ate the pork steak I had ordered earlier, I began to contemplate a plan to reach the city by the said time. The full moon was tomorrow night, which meant I had only a day of travel. The King's City was 4 days away. Peco riding was the only option, but that plan had a major problem attached, namely money. 1000 zees to the lamest bird they had and my funds weren't even close. Looks like I'll be walking... no Running. It was going to be a full day run, and I wasted no time. With the pork steak resting in my stomach, I readied my self and dashed to down the road. My destination... already mentioned.

It was going to be a LO~ONG day...

                                                    ~*~*~

     Running by itself is tiring. Add 100 pounds of armor and a 30-pound sword, it turns difficult. And when you are forced to run for a day, you don’t just become exhausted, every muscle in your body screams out for oxygen, which further overworks your already overworked lungs and heart. Kids, here’s the warning; do this for 30 minutes a day and you get an increase of stamina, muscle build and an improved cardiovascular system. A full day and you get premature heart failure. Thankfully ElderG is still necessary in this story, so death can wait.

     The sun had reached its peak, bathing the land with an unbearable heat. As the merchants seek shade under the canopied forest, a lone traveler strides down the now empty road, oblivious to the shimmers that hugged the ground. That traveler is me. My mind was half dead from lack of sleep. My body, a zombie obeying the last command my mind gave it before it blacked out; run. My mind was rooted in a dreamy state; my senses shut. It took a merchant to the face to return me to reality, literary. On the ground, mind half awake and with a body feeling numb with overwhelming pain, you tend not to notice things, like a merchant on top of you and 4 approaching sword armed men. It was only after I made eye contact with the merchant did I regain my senses; they were wide and filled with terror, the ones you only get when you stare at death face to face. He was quick to regain his composure and made a dash down road away from the bandits. Me on the other hand, had do deal with them.

     “Looks like the coward left us a present.” One bandit said to his comrades. Then to me he said, “I think you know the drill. You wouldn’t want metal sticking out of your body, do you?”

     By now I was already on my feet and feeling the effects of sleep deprivation. The bandits closed on me, their swords ready to strike if I did anything. They were close… too close. Pissed and tired, my reply was swift and brutal; two bandits found their guts lying on the road, another became a handicapped as his sword submitted to gravity along with his hands, while the last one witness all that happened as his head rocketed upwards powered by the pressure of his own blood. All that happened in one sword swipe.

     As they crumpled to the earth dead or dieing, their ringleader emerged from the forest. I wasn’t interested in him though; he was on a Peco. And a Peco meant an easy ride to town; by the night too. You know what happens next; he talks, I talk, we start discussing philosophy, draw swords and he dies a loser’s death. I decided to speed things up. I dashed forward, sword held straight at head level. In a single fluid movement, my sword pierced his abdomen till the hilt with a force so great that his body was dismounted and sent crashing into a nearby tree. His wide eyes told me he died not knowing what hit him.

     Mounting the Peco, I took the reins and directed the bird onto the road bound for Matherauimme. Within seconds, it took full speed. With the breeze chilling my body, I slipped into a deep sleep. My final thought before that was ‘I hope this bird knows where I want to go…’
                                                    ~*~*~

*hack* how long do still have to wait for the other one to be here?

Bishop: Welcome my dear priestess

Looking back, standing in front of her, Bishop, Father Joseph in his usual holy robe. Father Joseph is a tall man in 80's, with long white hair and beard. His white Holy Saint Robe makes him look like a human saint. With a smile on his face he held out his arms in a warm gesture to Angel.

Angel: Greetings, Father Joseph. How are you?

Bishop: Never been better. You must be tired from the long journey.

Angel: No, not at all.

Bishop: Ha, you are always so modest. No wonder Mother Theress loves you so much. Come, refreshments for you in the Dining Hall.

Angel: Yes, thank you. But what about the person I am to meet?

Bishop: He is yet to reach us. He should be here any time tonight. You have some food while waiting.

Angel: Yes, Father.

Together they headed to the Dining Hall where dinner awaits them.
 
                                                   ~*~*~

     Matherauimme, the King’s City. Countless poets personified the city in their works and minstrels from around Mitrash embody its beauty into their songs. Yet, none of them did her any justice. Her marble walls stood polished, firmly grounded into the earth where they stood; a testament of the city’s power. The walls were necessary; the King’s City was the heart of trade and commerce in Mitrash. Beyond her gates lay an assortment of medieval houses, neatly arranged in rows on both sides of a wide stone road that lead to the city square. The magnificent pearly white Palace of Margandee that lay at the northern edge of Matherauimme overlooked all this. It was a wonder in the day and remains that even when darkness befalls.

     The full moon shone brightly under the silhouettes of clouds, giving of a surreal glow to forest that lay just beyond Matherauimme’s walls. The Peco I rode was somewhere in there, enjoying its newfound freedom. I doubt it will survive. Peco’s were large creatures and the densely packed forest gave it little maneuverability space. Furthermore, the predators that the forest held fed on anything they could bring down. Taking my mind away from the doomed bird, I walked up to the gates, produced my identification to the guards and proceeded in uneventful.


     “Took you long enough.” A voice called out as I passed a tavern. Turning, I found myself facing a familiar face. Trevor. Dressed in plate armor with metal greaves and silver white lower guards, he looked like a knight. Only the snowy gray bracelets and golden clock collar gave away his real profession; a Keeper.

     “Late message, bad timing, insufficient Miis, bandits; there’s a hundred and one reasons why I SHOULD be late.” I replied. Trevor just grinned and took a bite from the chicken drumstick he was holding. My stomach gave a low growl, reminding me that my last meal was the pork steak back at the station inn. I resisted the urge to pop into the tavern and order myself two whole grilled boars, which was today’s special.

     “Your first Task and you’re already complaining. Well, what are you waiting for? The Cathedral is on the other side of town. And you’re late.”

     With that, my mind returned to the task at hand. “Oh, almost forgot. Thanks.” I said and moved on. But before that, I little thought lingered in my brain and I decided to word it out. “Say, how did you know I was coming here? Hell, how did u even know I was suppose to be at the Cathedral!?”

     Trevor grinned again and walked up to me so that only 2 pairs of ears heard his next sentences. “Keeper newbie basic 101; word travels REALLY fast among Keepers. Keep that in mind.”

I had seen churches before and the Cathedral was nothing new; just bigger and cleaner. Making my way through its doors, I picked up the scent of meat; grilled meat. Following its trail lead me into the dinning hall, where a priestess and the bishop were dinning happily. They were shocked by my uninvited entry but I ignored them, found myself an empty plate and started piling food onto it. I was famished and I’m making sure that they knew.

@Angel and Bishop watch in horror the man in front of them grawping on every single type of food available on the dining table. he was eating like he had never seen food before. not to mentioned severely destroying their appetite.

Angel: Father....

Bishop: ..... ehem

the man stopped eating abruptly, resulting some of the dishes to fall off the table into pieces. he looked puzzled...

: er....

Bishop: I assumed you are ElderG, Keeper sent by the Keeper's Guild?

ElderG: yes, yes, I am... err... sorry for my ..... rudeness, I haven't had anything since yesterday.. I ...

Bishop: it is alright. I can understand. but you should be mind your attitude in front of a lady *looks at Angel*

ElderG: sorry...

Angel: ..... it's alright .....

Bishop: let me introduce you, this is ElderG, Mitrash's Keeper from the Keeper's Guild.

ElderG nodded as he was being introduced in such a formal way.

Bishop: ElderG, this is Angel Louisnere, Priestess of the Sanatian Convent.

Angel bows slightly to ElderG, who bows back in respect.

Bishop: it is getting late. Angel, why don't you go and take a rest in the guestroom. so do you ElderG. we shall resume the task first thing next morning.

Angel: goodnight, Father. *looks at ElderG* goodnight

ElderG: goodnight.... goodnight, Father

Bishop: well, goodnight to both of you. sleep tight.

with that they ascended the spiral stair to their respective room.

@‘What a bad way to make my first impression; dropping in on dinner and made a pig out of myself. Yeah, nice going…’ I cursed in my mind. I was true that I was starving but did I have to do all that in the presence of a lady!? Now I hated myself even more. I was to blame but I found that the late message and lack of funds made perfect excuses. Here’s the logic; thinking I’m not at fault allows me to get over it better.

At daybreak, I made my way down into the dinning hall where breakfast lay served. It was rather early and it was a surprise when I found Angel there; the bishop wasn’t even awake yet. Usually I would sleep in till noon but the journey here had seriously tampered with my internal clock. I would take a day or two before my habits returned.

“Morning.” I greeted. “You are up early… morning person?”

“Good morning. It’s my habit… during my days of training at the Convent we were required to be up before the sun broke. It kind of stick with me even after I left.” She replied.

I eyed her for a while as I didn’t get a good look last night. She was young, in her 20’s but I didn’t dare confirm with her; you know how woman are about age. Furthermore, she was cute. Last night was rude enough to a lady but someone this cute? Another dagger of guilt stabbed me in the back. But judging from her reply, I guess she understood my plight and was going to overlook that little event.

“So,” she said as I took a bite off a loft of bread, “Do you always eat with such… brutality as last night?”

Okay… maybe not.

I swallowed hard before answering. “I’m sorry if I acted rude last night but my condition called for it. I think you’ll act the same way if you were starved…” I stopped once she started giggling.

“One sorry was good enough. And I perfectly understood your condition last night. I just wanted to see how you’d react to such a question.” She said with a smile.

‘What was she playing at?’ I thought although part of me was glad that she held no grudge. I smiled back, unable to ignore such a heavenly smile. By then, the bishop had entered the hall and took his seat at the table end.

“Good morning, Father.” We greeted simultaneously.

“Good morning. I trust your night went well.” We just nodded in agreement. “Good. But before we proceed, I believe you have something for me?” he directed the question at me. Just then, I remembered the Task letter, which I had almost disintegrated two days earlier. Producing it, the bishop nodded and I placed it onto his outstretched hand. He then unravels the parchment and holds it against the sunlight. Instantly, a new message took form as the sunlight illuminated the parchment. The bishop reeled the letter back before I had a chance to read it, only making out a few words under the blinding sunlight.
He then said grace, which was followed suit by Angel. I on the other hand lowered my head in respect.

“After this, please come to the Great Hall. There, I will inform the both of you of your Tasks.” He told us before taking leave. Soon, we finished and made our way to the Great Hall thinking of the task that lay installed for us.

@both Angel and ElderG walk to the Great Hall in silence. they reached the Great Hall within a few minutes walk. to their surprise, the Bishop was not the only person there. a few High Priest and High Priestess were also present, all wearing similar silver robes with metallic tier, embroiderieds with Holy motif. they all turn to look at the two of them as they make entrance to the hall.

Angel immediately took a deep bow upon seeing them. not knowing what to do ElderG follows suit.

Bishop: never mind the formality dear....

Angel: yes, Father.

ElderG: .... Er ... shall we?

Bishop: they are the High Priest/Priestess of the Sanctuary.

ElderG: greetings...

the High Priest/Priestess nodded in unison upon the greeting.

Angel: Father, why such a grandeur?

Bishop: they are going to brief you two on the task.

Angel: I see....

ElderG: shall we begin?

@Elsewhere, DD was out ruing his bad luck. After the death of his parents when he was young, he has been enduring hardship while traveling to find his uncle, which just died recently before he found him.
DD : sigh...... why has my life been this way? Why do I have to suffer from this loneliness..... I have no one left in the world and have nothing to hope for. Life is meaningless.....
(Hears a commotion nearby and slowly picks himself up to head there. A badly injured girl brushes past him as he walks.)
Demon1 : Don’t let her get away!!!!
(they approach DD)
Demon1 : Hey boy, seen a girl running past here?
DD : (inspects the demons) Nope.
Demon1 : Are you really sure? *Evil stare*
DD : Yes.
(the demons notice a bloodstain on DD's jacket)
Demon1 : Are you really sure? I'm asking you for the last time!
DD : (confidently) Yes.
Demon1 : Hmph you shall die for lying to us! (Grabs DD by the throat and prepares to stab DD)
Demon2 : Over here! She's over here!
Demon1 : Count yourself lucky! (rushes over)
(DD follows them and finds the girl exhausted, sitting on the ground in a small pool of blood)
(The girl is seen thinking about something and murmurs to herself)
Girl : No..... 1 more minute.......
Demon1 : Hahahahahaha Babe, its a pity you have to die. I'd keep you for myself if it weren’t for my lord's order. (raises his blade and strikes the girl)
(DD steps in between)
DD : (bleeding heavily) .......... For my life to end this way, I have no regrets........(vomits blood)
Demon1 : Hmph! I let you live and you throw your life away. What a fool! (Pushes DD out of the way and gets ready to strike the girl)

In a dark area (DD's mind)
DD : sigh.... hopefully they let the girl go.... Why the hell did I do that in the first place?.......... Did I wish to die that much?
(A voice)
~ Why? Why did you end your life for me?
DD : It has been only pain for me in this world.... Hopefully the next world would be better place......There is nothing left for me in this world.
~ (the voice is getting weaker) *cough cough* I cannot leave this world yet.. I have something important to accomplish. I have a request....Please...
DD : what is it?
~ I need a host for me to complete my task. I have been badly injured by the demons..... I fell into their trap..... In this state I can’t do anything...
DD : But what can I do? I'm dying.....
~ No need to worry.... I will merge my spirit with you. You'll be feeling better then...... (extends a hand towards DD)
DD : If it is that important to you, then I accept. At least I'll be of some use before I leave this world.
( reaches for the hand )

*DD opens his eyes. The demons have been slayed and turned to dust*
DD : Wha.... what happened?
~ There's no time to waste. Head towards King City quick. I'll explain in the meanwhile.
DD : Ok. (starts running) Oh by the way, what's your name? Mine's Daniel Delores.
~ Ariel.

@I was guessing the every convent elder had gathered here. Very unusual if you asked me. I was beginning to think that this Task was going to be anything but easy. Aside from that, I had a feeling of being watched ever since I had entered the hall. Maybe it was due to the fact that everyone in the hall had trained their eyes on me; scrutinizing me as if I was being judged. One particular high priest had his eyes averted from me as if informing me that I had been judged and was found wanting. I had never felt such a tensed atmosphere before; not even when I took the Keeper test. It was some time before anyone spoke, and when he did, I sighed in relive. I was never a man of patience and if that didn’t kill me first, the pressure bearing down on me would.

“Your Task is to find a man named Keel Impreda. Find him and bring him before us, alive, using any way possible.” The left-hand most high priest said. As the order was a little vague, suspicion began to creep into my mind. Everyone was a little tight lipped; aside from informing us of our Task, they hadn’t said a word. Furthermore, they were withholding the Task details, rising the suspicion meter all the way to the top. All I had to do now was back away form the Task and they’ll be forced to explain further…

“I shall accomplish the given Task as ordered.” Angel answered with a bow. I just stared at her in disbelief. She had just accepted a Task, which triggered every caution alarm in a sane human mind. Didn’t she feel even a hint of suspicion? Maybe it was devotion as she was a member of the church. Whatever her reason was, I lost interest in finding out as the damage had been done.

“So, you’re the Keeper they sent us… you don’t look capable of handling this Task…” a high priest told me in the face. He was in front of me before I knew it; must have gotten myself lost in thought. With his insult still ringing in my ears, reason and suspicion were tossed out the window. Pride was a stake here and losing wasn’t an option.

“Try me. I might just surprise you.” I replied, grinning. He backed away and grinned back.

“If so you’ll accept your Task without doubt.” I cursed in my head; I must have been really obvious if he could read me like an open book. But he wasn’t done. “In addition, you have a special Task; to protect Angel, with your life if you must. Not backing away?”

I said nothing; I didn’t have to. He read my answer through my eyes.

“I think that’s all.” The bishop spoke, “I wish that you complete your Task’s well. Good luck and may god be with you.” With that, everyone retreated back to his or her respective rooms, Angel and me being the last one’s in the Great Hall. I slumped into a seat, trying to make sense of the mess I was now in.

“Well, what are we waiting for?” Angel called out to me enthusiastically. “We got a ‘Keel’ to find.”

I had to face the facts; we were in this together. Getting up, I followed her as we passed the cathedral doors and returned into the city where our Task awaits.

~*~

Somewhere on the peak of the Kanzarj Mountain’s, a lone figure stood watching the King’s City that lay in the distance. He then grinned and said to himself, “The wheels of destiny shall turn at Matherauimme…” Snapping his fingers, he broke into strands of black and blended into the wind…

@A young boy woke up at daybreak and ate his breakfast quickly, as today will be his first riding lesson. he quickly went to the stables to prepare his pony. as he approached the pony, he noticed a lump on a corner on his pony stables, a quarterstaff lying next to it. being a curious boy, he poked the lump, and the lump shuffles... he stepped back and that lump of turned out to be a man, his tunic is travel-stained. he wore an angel necklace on his neck. the boy just stared as the man cracks his neck and back... the man spoke "Are you a good boy, boy?" the boy replied "Yes, at least I was told I am..." the man then spoke "Well, if you are a good boy, then go to your kitchen and get me some food. Do not tell anyone I’m here ok?"

The boy ran to his house, gathered as many foods as he can carry than ran back to the stables... after he gave to that man, he watched as the man wolfed some of it, and stored the rest in his backpack... then he asked the boy again "Boy, where is the nearest city here?" "the nearest is King's City, about a half day ride down that road..."

the man stood up, wore the cloak and held his quarterstaff as his walking stick. the boy saw that he carried a sword too, though not for long... before he set out, he asked the boy "What is your name?" "Garath", replied the boy... "Well Garath, you will be a very good boy if you don’t tell me that I’m here ok? And give my thanks to that pony too, she was nice enough to give me space to sleep."

After he had left, the boy still wondered who was that man... and the man walked towards King's City, his mission was still a mystery...

@At the outskirts of King City, DD is "communicating" with Ariel
DD : So why were you chased by demons? They're not common ever since the convent was established.
Ariel : Erm....uh......(hesitates for a while and thinks) A cult tried to use me as a sacrifice to the demons. Yeah that's right. I ran away from them... Anyway, how far are we from the City?
DD : It'll take about 2 hours at this pace. I just walked from there earlier on.
Ariel : Can’t you go any faster? It's important.
DD : I'm no runner. What's the important thing you had to do anyway?
Ariel : (Sarcastically) Weakling~. A person like you doesn’t need to know.
DD :  What did you just say? oh... I'm tired now. Let's rest for a while.  
Ariel : Ok ok fine. Since it's YOU who's doing the walking so be it.
DD : (brainstorm) Oh if that's how you put it, I'm not walking till you tell me your important thing.  
Ariel : Why you~! (Thinks for a while ~ Why the heck did I merge with this person?) I'm got to meet and warn someone quick before the cult gets him. Happy?
DD : ^_^ Sure thing. (Picks up the pace)

(Hours later -> in the city. DD is looking for someone under the instructions of Ariel. They stop in front of a graveyard keeper's home)
Ariel : We're here. (rings the bell and notices DD's feeling) What's troubling you? Scared of ghosts?  
DD : .........Nope! I'm not afraid(scared and looks around for ghosts).........
Man : (Opens the door) who goes there? (looks like a monster due to the lack of light inside the house. DD tries to run but cant)
Ariel : (takes control of DD's body) Is that you Keif? I'm Ariel. (DD is confused on what "he" is talking)
Man : (Looks at DD) Who are you? How do you know my real name? (prepares to grab a mace strapped on his waist)
Ariel : It's me Ariel. Don’t you recognize me?
Keif : Nope.
Ariel : (thinks a while) Oh yeah give me a moment. (Forcefully closes the door before Keif opens it a moment later)
Keif : What?! ( looks at Ariel's real form and notices the crest on her forehead. DD is getting confused as his body has "changed") Is that really you?
Ariel : The one and only. I've got something important to tell you.
(Keif invites DD in and they start chatting)
-~> Not going to write the whole conversation. Summary entailed
(Ariel tells Keif that demons have been hunting for them and for some reason, the demons already know who they are even though no one knows about their existence as watchers positioned on the world. Keif replies that he's been having to fight demons who dropped by his place and calling his name. They are clueless about how this is happening. Keif implies that Watchers everywhere have been attacked, some survivor reported back to him while others are missing and considered dead. Keif then decides to meet his superior and locks himself in a room)

DD : What's all this about? Watchers? Demons? And importantly, ME!?(looks at his body)
Ariel : Crap! Forgot to seal his mind! Now he knows everything!
(Keif returns, looking tired)
Keif : My superior says investigations are on the way. They have noticed that as leaders of other areas too have reported that.
Ariel : Keif, what should I do? My host knows who we are!
Keif : (shakes head) Clumsy as usual I see. You'd better have some explaining to do since your going to be using him to fight considering your condition right now. I know you’re badly injured.
DD : Fight?  
Ariel : (grumble) Alright then. Listen up.
-~> Keif is a higher ranked officer of Watchers then Ariel. Watchers are a group of spirits that report the worlds matters to the gods, which mean Ariel is an angel sent to monitor a part of earth, specifically a province near King's City)
Keif : Sorry to interrupt, but you have been assigned a new task. The superiors have already spoken.
Ariel : What is it?
Keif : You are to "remove" a person named Keel Impreda. The convent has sent personnel to retrieve him. You must not let him live.
Ariel : Doesn’t that go against our principle of not meddling with human affairs? And you’re telling me to kill someone?!!(throws an argument)
Keif : The superiors have spoken. I am only informing you of it.
Ariel : What the hell are they thinking? Why does he have to die then?
Keif : They refuse to tell me. And they believe you need some help considering your condition. Here's your weapon. (Gives Ariel the Twin silver crosses) I too don’t believe what they said. I'll meet them again tomorrow to find out the reasons. Now go. The Convent must be sending their men out anytime soon. I wish you good luck.

Outside the house - Ariel returns DD his actual body
DD : That's a relief. (looking at himself while putting on his shoes) (Ariel is in deep thought)
DD : I don’t know what's this is all about but are you really going to kill that Keel guy?
Ariel :................... I don’t know. I really don’t know. I can’t go against the superiors but I don’t want to kill someone for a reason I don’t even know.
DD : So where to? (As they were walking past the Cathedral. Ariel was too busy thinking about that matter to realise they're walking by it and not avoiding it)

@both Angel and ElderG walk out of the Cathedral with silence befalling them.

ElderG: ... can I ask you something?

Angel: go ahead *smiles*

ElderG: why did you accept the task without even questioning them? there are so many loops within the given task.. don't you want to know why the task is given?

Angel: .... should have guessed you will ask these questions.. we, as to say the Priest and Priestess, are honored bound to the Convent, also known as the Holy Sanctuary Guild. it is our duty to perform any task given with absolute trust. meaning we shall give our services without any doubt to the Convent. clear?

ElderG: but... isn't it unfair for u to do everything as the Convent ordered without even knowing a single detail of the task?

Angel: .... the Convent's Priest and Priestess are just like the Knight and Crusader of the King. they are bound to their duty through the chivalry, while we are bound to our duty through the Missionaries Act (rules and guide lines of priest/priestess). we're all train to act instead of ask.

ElderG: what if it is something illegal? u still does it?

Angel: I shall obey the Convent's order. I think u can leave my duty out of our future conversations. it is not up to u to decide what I should or should not do. and you are in no position to questions the Convent's ruling either. u shall do as you are told, or does the Keeper's Guild is so incapable of even training their Keepers to perform simple tasks and performing their duties?

ElderG was utterly surprised by Angel's reaction. she is totally different from her previous sweet and nice girl personality. looking as if she will kill him if he shall press further on the topic, she was glaring at him, threatening. her hazel eyes are now bright red, glowing like the burning fire.

ElderG: ... fine, but I think u shall leave my Guild out of this. I will not tolerate another insult like this to my Guild. *equally angry*

Angel: then u should learn to shut your mouth out of unnecessary questions.  

ElderG: fine!  shall we move now?

Angel: not yet. we need to get some stuff before leaving. our next stop is the Merchant's Office, southeast of King's City.

@As they were passing by the Cathedral, a photographer asked to take a picture of DD for her scrapbook of sceneries. DD agreed. *snap* and the photo turned out. The photographer looked in disbelief. DD took a look at the picture and kept it. He reimbursed the confused photographer for the photo and quickly dashed to the entrance of the cathedral to escape questions from the photographer. He takes a seat on the front steps of the cathedral.

DD : ....? Care to explain? (looking at the photo) (refer to the link below)
Ariel : Well..... Girls like to look good right? Ever heard of the myth that the camera can capture your soul?
DD : ..... What about your dilemma?
Ariel : I don’t want to think about it. It's giving me a headache.
DD : How does Keel look like?
Ariel :....erm..... Keif gave me his photo. Check your pockets.
DD : Nothing here.
Ariel :.............
DD : "Clumsy as usual" eh?  

@As Bean arrived at King City, he was astounded by the size of the city... in his journey never has he seen the city this big. since he came from a small village, he felt at first out of place... but then he steeled his heart and went forth in the city... he wandered around aimlessly before he came to an inn... he went in and buy himself some ale... and ordered the servant to fill up his empty wineskin as well... at first the servant seemed dubious, but after he fished out some money, the servant seemed pleased and bring him a tankard...

As he was enjoying his drink, an old man sat across him and also demand some ale... and started talking to him

Old man: Well sonny, u seem a bit young to drink ale, 'except for that scar of your...
Bean: I am above the age limit, old man...
Old man: oh then pardon me then *hic*... you're not from around here aren’t you??
Bean: Nop, I came from further south...
Old man: Well that figures... I think... so what is 'your business here *hic*
Bean: I think that's none of your business...
Old man: You know what I’m thinking, sonny?
Bean: What?
Old man: you're running away aren't ya sonny?? You travel light, and you ain't got no horses meaning you don’t want to be seen or something, am I right, sonny??

Bean chuckled... it seems that this old man is more than meets the eye...

Bean: Yeah, maybe I am... and you want to know whom??

The old man suddenly frowned at him, and Bean saw that his eyes were suddenly quite sharp... It seemed that he was looking inside of him, inside his troubled mind... and then just as suddenly, as if he had found what he was looking for, his eyes relaxed and he was almost drunk...

Old man: No need boy... I am not going to wondered into other people business... yet. A word of advice, though. You can’t escape, run as fast as you can, as far as you can... You will not escape... Someday you have to face it, sonny...

Bean was startled by the last comment. He quickly gulped down his ale, and then head out... As Bean started to go out of the inn, he heard the old man's voice

Old man: Go to the Cathedral, sonny... Maybe there will be redemption for you there...

Bean turned to the old man... but he was gone. He started to shivered, and wondered just who is the old man was... Yet he followed his instruction and went to the Cathedral... At the front of the Cathedral he saw a young man sitting while holding a photograph, and talking to... He can't believe what he saw, to whom the young man was talking too in his mind...

@I never liked starting a journey on a bad note. Unfortunately, fate threw me situations that made getting a bad start inevitable; first at the Paygroth forest and now this. I feel like my luck, which was never positive, was in cohorts with fate; their grand master plan: making my life as miserable as possible… and succeeding at that too. Then they decided to add another pin to the already needle littered voodoo doll. It involves shopping.

“I’ll have 100 of those potions… and some of your best meat. Make sure it they’ll last a week. Also I heard a shipment of rare Gronnar berries came in yesterday. I’ll take 50 of the best ones. You better give me a good discount on all that…” Angel haggled with the head merchant. She had bought enough to feed the king’s army for a week. And guess who will be carrying it all?

“Hey, do you have a plan to find this ‘Keel Impreda’ guy. We don’t even know how he looks like.” It had been bothering me for some time; how does 1 find someone on just his name?

Angel became stone then turned robotically to me, all the while having an unnaturally large smile planted on her fair face. “… I never thought of that,” ending it with a nervous laugh.

I stood speechless, a large sweet drop forming behind my head. ‘Great,’ I cursed in thought, ‘we could be on this Task till the end of days only to find he was next to us all along.’

While I was in thought, Angel’s face had brightened suddenly. She then returned to her haggling and when that was done, she piled her goods on me, all the while wording out her idea. I learned two things that day; one was females could multi-task.

“Here’s an idea; we can start by asking around town. We are bound to get somewhere this way.” I moved to disagree, but when she smiled sweetly, I gave up that thought. Still, the joker in me had other plans. Eyeing a bunch of empty rood signs and a stack of paper in the corner, an idea began formulating in my mind.

“While you’re at it, put up posters and plant help signs around town,” I added sarcastically, snickering all the while. The plan had a snitch though. Her reply wiped that all that from my face in an instant.

“Oh good! You can do that while I talk to the townsfolk,” she said excitedly. I stared at her again, dumbfounded; the sweatdrop returned, this time as twins. I figured she had forgotten about our previous argument. Finally, my luck was turning around. It felt like a joke.

It was a joke, a cruel one too.

The peace and tranquility was shattered abruptly as a ruckus broke out in the direction of the city square. I ignored it thinking it was some dumb fight but when it got louder and was followed by piercing screams, my thoughts changed. As I was exiting the guild to investigate, a lone merchant burst through the doors, lost his balance and fell face first on the stone floor. He was panting heavily and his garments were soaked with fresh blood, human blood. Ignoring his pain, he grabbed my clock and hoisted himself up till we were eye to eye. Unspeakable horror; that were the message his eyes carried. His lips moved but no words were spoken; he was breathless.

My eyes narrowed as I became serious; I had heard the unmistakable roar of a lesser demon.

“Monsters!” the merchant cried out, “Monsters are attacking! Everyone’s dead! EVERYONE!” He was obviously delirious but it was not my concern. In seconds I broke into a sprint and rushed to the city square with Angel in tow. Surprisingly, she was keeping up. Guess I must start thinking higher of the priestess.

If I had a choice, I would have thrown up on sight. Angel on the other hand didn’t think she had a choice and I understood perfectly why; the square was painted in blood oozing out from the mutilated bodies that littered the opening. It was a ghastly sight but I also noticed that none of the surrounding buildings were damaged in anyway. Also, the demons weren’t here. I made a quick deduction; the demons weren’t attacking the city but were attacking the people, which meant that this was no random demon attack. Someone was ordering the demons… someone powerful. Demon Lords fit the picture best but they would rather retain their stalemate with the Gods then unleashing lesser demons on people.

Then I saw them. They were brutes, large as statues and black as charcoal. Their glowing blood eyes and bloody jaws made nightmares look like fairy tales. Meter long black blades attached to each of the demon’s arms were bathed in blood; one had someone’s guts dangling from it. To my left, about a dozen were mowing down merchants as the made a run for the city gates. To my right, the city guards fought vainly against another dozen demons. Seriously outclassed and outnumbered, they were falling faster then smoked flies. I guess the knights and crusaders, not to mention the other priests and priestesses were busy fighting the demons too; two-dozen demons couldn’t have given the city square a blood job.

I looked at Angel and pointed right, “Don’t tell me you can’t take on a bunch of lesser demons by yourself?”

“Watch me!” she grinned. Angel was in her element now…

As for me, sword at ready, I charged to the other dozen demons. I was Death and I had come…

@*Spirits of Heaven, Spirits of the Cleansed, guide me away from evil and sin, MYSTIC ARROWS*

the spell charged down those demon with ease, throwing them a mighty 10 feet before turning them to dust.

Priest A: who did that?

Angel: I did. Why?

Priest A: but.... that spell, it is ...

Angel: High Priest ability, yaya, I know... I am not a normal Priestess, kk?

Priest B: not normal? What do you mean? ....  Wait a minute!! You ... you... u are the Chosen Priest?

Angel:   anyway, no time to talk *looks at the upcoming bunch of demons*

together with the help of the others, those demons were easily vanguished. Unfortunately, the death toll was massive.

ElderG, utterly too surprised to react to anything, stood there, dumb-founded, not doing anything at all.

Angel: HEI!!! What are doing?

ElderG: ...how ... did ...you.... do... that?

Angel: never you mind... help me to hold this while I resurrects them *handing ElderG her backpack*

ElderG: OK.... *took the backpack* WHOA!! You carried this bag all the while? Damn heavy!!

Angel: no, I fly it around me, duh!

ElderG: ... I wonder what else I didn't know about her?

*Ancient Spirits of the Blessed Ones, grant me your power to bring these innocents to life, guide them and lead them back to where they truly belongs, RAISE DEADS*

the dead, slowly, one by one were once again alive. Not sure of what had befalls them, they return to their chores, wondering.

Crusader: ... great, now we got to clean this mess up....

Knight... can't we have the Council appoint someone else to do it? I am sick of this; this is already the 5th times in this month!!

@*As they were watching the photo*
Ariel: (Sniff) I smell blood...monsters.... fire... We got to get the hell out of here!
DD: (starts running) I don’t smell anything... Why are we running anyway?
Ariel: Just run! This city will be in danger if we don’t!
DD:  Ok ok!
(As they ran past Bean, one of the crosses he was holding snagged a pouch Bean had on his waist. They were too busy to notice. Bean looks back with eyes filled with confusion. They run but end up cornered somewhere outside the city gates)
Monsters: (sees the crosses DD is holding) we.... have... found... her.... The watcher... is.... here (All monsters start to gather there. Back in the city, the knights notice the monsters that were entering the city suddenly turned away from the city. They let out a sigh of relief and exclaimed that this invasion was more deadly than the first few attacks.) <-(Refer to angel's post)
DD: What now? (Holds a cross on each hand)
Ariel: Looks like there's only 1 way - Bash them up~!  
DD: How? I don’t know how to fight!
Ariel: (shocked) Oh dear... (A monster takes a swipe at them. Ariel senses DD's helplessness in combat and controls DD's arm to use the cross to block the strike. Since DD is just a normal citizen, he takes a bad bruise on the arm.)
DD: Ouch!!.... (Holds his arm)
Ariel: This is bad.... really really bad... Guess there's no other way. DD, you'll be on your own for a while after this. (Starts chanting a spell and a bright light envelop the town. Later, the light subsides and there stands an angel, ready to fight)
Ariel: (opens her eyes) True form unsealed. May those that came from the darkness return to the darkness guided by the light! (Starts bashing the monsters. A specific monster that is killed bursts, with dark liquid covering Ariel)
Ariel: Not.... this ...cursed...liquid...again... Who.... is... using.... this.... forsaken...skill... ughhhhh (becomes weak, slumps to the ground and returns to DD's form.)
DD: *shouts* Ariel! Are you alright?
(The monsters surround a helpless DD, who as a civilian looks doomed)

@As Bean still watched them with confusion... suddenly the young man face turns to fear and just as suddenly he ran away... The man snapped out a cross in his hand, and the cross grazed his waist as they ran pass him... Bean watched they ran and began walking towards the other direction. Then he remembered that his money pouch was at his waist, and now it was gone... He cursed, and then began to run towards the direction of the pair.

When he reached them however, suddenly a blinding light engulfed the city and after it had subsided, an angel stood ready for battle... She whacked the first monster that came to her, then another, then another... but then a monster she killed burst and dark liquid covered her... She was weakening and then returned to the man form, while the angel retreated back into the corners into his mind... The monsters started to surround him... "Damn it, I have to do something"

As the first monster took a swipe at them, Bean blocked it at his wrist with his quarterstaff. Then he began to strike, to bash the monster coming at them to defend young man. When the staff was knocked off his hand, he drew his short sword and began a new carnage. The monsters suddenly was fearful to strike, and just circling them... Then a new voice boomed...

"Well, I have found thee at last, Bean"

A gulf of smoke suddenly emerged in front of them, and the rest of the monsters went behind it... When the smoke cleared, there stood a demon lord...

Demon Lord: Well well well, thou have made very good progress, even after thy betrayal of me, Bean.

Bean: Necrid!! What is the meaning of this?!

Necrid: My my, thou have lost thy manner... Where is thine "lord"? I have hunted this angel for reasons of my own... I never expect to find thee here as well... Come back to me my minion! Come and be my general of my army of demons and monsters. I promise thee rewards and have I ever broken it?

Bean: No, Necrid. You have given me rewards, but in return I had lost my soul and my feelings. However I had regain it back, and I don't fell like letting it go!

Necrid: By hook or by crook, thou will be mine! And so is that man! Return to me!!

Bean: NEVER!!!

Necrid: RETURN TO ME!!!

Then Bean felt the power of the Demon Lord came crashing down on him, crushing his will and mind. He knelt to the ground.

"RUN!!! GO NOW!!! RUN!!!" he shouted to the guy. And he saw the young man started to run... His memories started to fade; he began to lose control of his body. Then suddenly he heard the old man's voice "DO NOT GIVE IN!!! FIGHT IT!!! THINK OF YOUR ANGEL ON YOUR NECK AND SHE WHO POSSESSED IT BEFORE YOU!!!"

A memory of a woman built in him, covered with her blood and his short sword in her heart... And her last words came to him... A sudden rage consumed him as he shouted "NEVER!!!" and hit Necrid Square in the face. Necrid reel back from the blow, and that is Bean last remembered before he lost his temper and his anger took over. Necrid ordered the monsters to attack Bean and started to disappear. Before Necrid disappeared, Bean heard he said "Cursed old man, this man is my instrument!"

@“It ain’t over yet…” a disemboweled voice cried out. With that, everyone fell to the ground as if forced by an unseen force. Angel held her ground for a while before the force redirected itself and sent her crashing through two buildings. And there she lay unconscious. The force on the other hand didn’t affect me at all, allowing me to rush to Angel’s side. She wasn’t injured seriously but the force prevented me from moving her.

“Where are you looking at? Your fight’s here!” the same voice spoke again, but this time louder and closer, as if he were standing right beside me. I soon found myself parrying 8 silver snake-like spears that shot out from my right. My eyes followed them as they retracted back to a guy-standing pass the debris. He was roughly my size and was bandaged heavily on both his arms. He wore an old tattered tunic under a crisscross of metal that served as his armor. A steel mask concealed his facial features below the nose and large flat shoulder guards held a pair of massive thick bladed swords that extended themselves till just inches off the stone pavement. The transparent eyes that lay below his short spiked black hair dug into me, trying to find some reason to justify our impending battle.

“Still wondering why you aren’t down likes the rest? Let me put it this way… I’m bored and I like a good fight. The rest can watch for all I care. I like a good audience.” He said it with a hint of anticipation.

“Then I wonder why you would sent cannon fodders to clear up the city.” I said toneless. No use exposing my emotions before a fight.

“Oh don’t worry about that. We just followed them in. They were after the humans all along anyway,”

“Guess you’re too weak to handle it alone. With all said, why must I bother myself to fight you?” Okay, keep it calm. Make him angry, as angry enemies are easier to read. Rage isn’t very creative once he takes over.

But he had read between the lines, “Maybe cause we are the only one’s left standing. Or are your skills so dulled that you’re trying to scare your way out of this? But, enough said. If you’re not coming, I am.” His hands went to the swords.

“With pleasure!” and I rushed forward, sword raised high. But then the bandages were blown away and the snakes returned. It was a ruse and I had fallen for it. Again parrying of the snake spears, I found my weapon unable to even scratch them. And they could double back and strike me at times of vulnerability. I had to end this fast and as I had not judged my opponent’s full potential, I opted for my best option; instant kill. I closed the gap between us and once I was around ten meters from him, I freed of left hand from the sword and focused my magic.

‘AIR TRUST!’

A billow of wind sent him vertical and before gravity had time to do its work, I was channeling another spell into my sword. This spell was my trump card; a triple element magical attack that could easily obliterate stretch of dense forests. My sword glowed misty blue with the completion of the channeling. As he reached his maximum height and floated weightless for the moment, I trusted my sword in his direction, completing the spell with the casting words.

‘Lords of the three planes; grant me your will and merge out might; and with this power, unleash the force that rends all in my path!! GRAND RAIL!!’

A magical circle sparked briefly at the tip of my sword before the air gave way to vacuum effect of the spell. The concentrated blast of air froze the air water partials, creating large ice spicks that rushed into the air void. Milliseconds after the initial air blast a massive lightning bolt followed the spell path, further vaporizing the target. He took all of it. When it was over, the sky remained as cloudless as it had been since morning.

I returned my sword to its sheath and slumped to the stone beneath. That single attack had taken everything out of me and now I lay void of energy. But me senses were not all dead yet. The force that had immobilize everyone in the surrounding area had not dissipated, of which two possibilities could be derived; either someone else was causing it or… he wasn’t dead.

The answer was the latter.

“This is all? Your magic isn’t all that great. But this isn’t the end, right? What, Soul’s in the sheath already? Nobody told you it was over.” He said mockingly. A million questions began to pour into my head; how did he survive such a high level spell when I clearly saw it engulf him? Did he intend to test me? But most importantly was how did he know my sword’s true name? I searched the area at found him standing just meters from where I lay, the snake spears that coiled themselves around his arms poised to strike. It didn’t happen. They crumbled like broken ceramics as soon as they left on the attack vector.

“Guess your shot was powerful after all. I would miss them.” Brushing off the weapon’s remains off his arms, he reached for the swords, brought them to bear and took an attack stance.

“Well, get up. We have only begun.”

He didn’t have to tell me again. I raised my left shelve till be bracelet jewel was in sight. I never intended to use them, but the situation brought no choice. With the luminous jewel held beside Soul’s hilt, I drew her quickly. The change was instantly visible; the sword glowed brightly and the symbols engraved into the blade were filled with a golden light. I was ready.

“Yeah, time I ended it.”

@Laying there among the ruins, Angel regained conscious. She was only slightly bruised on the arms and there were scratches all over her legs.

*Damn, spoils my skin, HEAL. *

Regaining all her health point and the time she spent laying on the ruins, her magic sources is already full. In front of her, ElderG were busy battling with a demon. He looks different from the other demons. He is a lot stronger, a higher-level demon. ElderG was hurt, but his spirit was not tempered, he is fighting the tough battle with his full might.

*So, there you are*

*huh? *

*So, you are the one who wipes off my whole battalion of demons earlier? You are a lot tougher than u look, Angel Louisnere. If only I had your service, the invasion will be a lot easier. How I miss u after our last date*

*... Mirodieun, u bastard! That is no date!! *

*Oh, why are so harsh on me, my dear? Didn’t you know how much I love you? *

The guy was tall, medium build, with light blue long hair, tied in a ponytail with a silver tier. His eyes were orange. He was dressed like a crusader; only his armors were encrusted with the symbol of the Darkness Tribe. He was walking towards Angel, with his hands wide open to embrace her. Angel shows sign of disgust to him, backing away as he approached.

*The only thing u loves is my power. And I am not stupid enough to give it to you!! *

 *Very well, then I shall have it by force!! * He draws his sword, ready to fight. But before he could even take another step closer, something that Angel did stopped him.

Angel was taking off her bracelets on both her hands.
*If you want to fight, you'll get it*

*NO! NO! Oh no, you don't... fine! I am going! Don’t take those things off!! I am going! I AM GOING!! You win!! *

And with that, *pop* he is gone.

*Darn that bastard!! I better hurry to help others*

@As DD kneels on the ground questioning his subconscious where Ariel's spirit resides about her condition, he notices the Bean who is now the target of monsters. Bean looks overwhelmed.
DD: I must do something... but what?
Ariel responds in a soft voice: Go... save.... that.... soul... I'll.... be.... alright.
DD: but how? Come on brain think! He saved us from being minced meat so I have to do something in return! (Sees the monsters circling Bean as he keeps warding them off and picks up the twin crosses. But somehow, Bean wasn’t the calm person who saved DD any longer. His eyes turn white, lost all reasoning capabilities and started bashing like a madman. In the end, all monsters were flattened, with only DD standing behind the piles of corpses)
Bean: (Sees DD with weapons) Death~......... (Lunges towards DD. With a rush of adrenalin, DD manages to sidestep the attack)
DD: What are you doing? Didn’t you just save me a moment ago? (Defensive position)
Bean: Threat... die!! (Lunges at DD again. DD, after experiencing his first battle when Ariel used his body, picked up some basic moves and blocked Bean's attack. With their weapons locked, DD's stamina started to wither. (He is a civilian anyway) Bean stares into DD's eyes (hey, they're supposed to do that when fighting right? No wrong ideas ok?  ) And suddenly, lost his intention to fight.)
DD: (gasping) ... (watches as Bean regains sanity)
Bean: (tired) is the angel alright?
DD: She's alright... Wait a minute! You can see her?  
Bean: Yes...
DD: How the? (Ariel suddenly calls him) What is it?
Ariel: Keif... the city was swarmed... Find him....
DD: Ok I hear you. Brother, we have something urgent to attend to. We are grateful for your help. May we know your name? Mine's DD and she's Ariel.
Bean: I'm should be alright. They call me Bean.
DD: Thank you again Bean. Till we meet again. (Leaves Bean alone and runs towards the graveyard where Keif lives. They find the door unhinged, but with no signs of struggle within the house. They smell smoke from the back of the house and find Keif roasting some monsters for dinner)
Keif: Hey, you’re both in time! I knew you'd be back. (Shows the photo of Keel that Ariel left behind) Some guests dropped by uninvitingly for dinner so I roasted extras. Want some? (Shows DD a roasted monster leg)
DD:   No thanks...
Keif: How's Ariel? She's not talking? That's weird. (Checks DD's condition and finds some of the dark liquid) The cursed liquid... could it be? Wait a while; I'll get something for her. (Leaves and comes back with some potions) This should get her well quicker.
DD: Thanks.
Keif: You’re sure your not eating? Here, have a leg when you’re hungry. (Gives DD a roasted monster leg) I've got some urgent matters to discuss with the superiors. Now go forth on your mission. I'll update you if the elders announce anything new. (Sends DD away and talks to himself) The cursed liquid... Something's wrong here... definitely. (Locks himself in his room)
(DD passes by Bean on the way back to the city square and helps Bean get there. Bean gobbles up the monster leg on the way. DD looks sick.  . Suddenly the earth trembled, almost knocking them off their feet, then a strong gust almost blew them away and a loud thundering sound stunned them due to the spell ElderG used. After the winds subsided, DD brushed himself clean of dirt.)
DD: What was that?
Bean: That feels familiar... I have once felt a spell that powerful before.... I cant remember where...
(Ariel comes over after seeing Bean's condition to give him a heal. DD lets Bean down and sights the picture of Keel that Keif gave them earlier on lying on the floor, probably blown out of his pocket by the gusts)
DD: Quite a good looking guy ain't he Ariel? This Keel Impreda guy. Wonder what did he do? (Looks at the picture and remembers their mission)

@He has lost it... His mind was blank... He can’t think straight... All in his mind was death and destruction... After he finished with the monsters, he searched for his next victim... Then Bean saw a figure of a man holding twin crosses... He rushed him but the man managed to sidestep his attack... Another blow, and the staff was trapped in the twin cross... Yet Bean still overpowered him. The man was weakening... Then their eyes locked... Bean remembered him as the man with the angel... His mind was started to clear, and he began to have a grip on himself...



After he had left Bean surveyed the carnage he had wrecked... He was sad, yet at the same time he felt satisfied, because right now it is non-human that had been at the end of the receiving end of his madness... He also felt some pain in his left rib, and he walked with a limp. He began to walk to the square, fearing that there were other monsters, and perhaps other Demon Lords invading this city... On the way he thought about the last exchange between the old man and Necrid, and began to wonder just who the hell is the old man...

Then DD passed by him...

DD: Where are you going, Brother?
Bean: The square, maybe there are other invading... I couldn't be sure about it...
DD: Well, let me help you get there. Want a leg? My friend roasted it a while ago... It's roasted monster...
Bean: Thanks... (Began wolfing down on it, while DD watched uneasily) I had worse...

Suddenly, the ground trembled, and then a gust of wind nearly blew them away...

DD: What was that?
Bean: That feels familiar... I have once felt a spell that powerful before.... I can’t remember where...

It was familiar spell... He had felt it during his tenure with the Necrid... It was during... He cant remembered it very well, maybe it was just before he went berserk that he felt the spell...

The angel, Ariel came to look at him and gave him a heal... He felt much better, then gave control back to DD he sat in a corner to discuss about it, as Bean wondered about the spell, and also about the old man... and his words "Maybe there will be a redemption for you there..."

Is he talking about the angel... Ariel and DD were talking about Keel Im-something... Then the old man voice came again in his mind...

"Protect her, protect her with your life and soul... Protect both of them and their companions from the Demon Lords... You will find y

[Angel]

Next morning the battle began... The men fought bravely, valiantly, and my monster were having a hard time taking this city over... Then suddenly Necrid's voice thundered "Ah, Devanna, what are thou doing here??"

Devanna: your plan will end here, Necrid... You will never take this place!
Necrid: It is curious to me, why an angel was sent to this place... to protect this land?
Devanna: Watchers had reported your slaying and asked me to protect here, as you will strike here next...
Necrid: Ah, well then... let's see how much power did thou still have! Bean, slay her...

I was confused inside, part of me compels me to obey Necrid... Part of me won’t... Then Necrid's will came crushing to me and I ended up fighting with her... As we fought she continued to shout me to snap out of it... but I cant hear her, I think there's where my madness originally came I think... Then one stab, and my staff was through her heart... and her last words... I could never forget... "Come to the light, Bean... You will suffered much more than this if you continue on..." then she died... her death awaken me, I think... I began to cry for the first time... I took her angel necklace... place it on my neck and began to attack the monsters, helping those men... I tried to attack Necrid too, but he just parried my attack and took the black staff away... I felt powerless without it... I thought I was done, but then a blinding white light appeared and the next thing I knew, I woke up in strange grounds... the only thing I have was the angel necklace around my neck... I scrounge some clothes and began my journey, knowing that Necrid will come after me...

@As night falls; Bean takes shelter in the Keif's home. Keif calls DD out to the graveyard before he went to sleep. After examining DD, he came to a conclusion.
Keif: Hey boy, I need to confirm something. Be right back. (Leaves DD wondering what is he doing outside. Minutes later, a shadow attacks DD. DD avoids a few blows and manages to dish out a few of his own but succumbs to the shadow. Just as the shadow is to deliver a fatal blow, it disappears)
Keif: I was right. You don’t fight, right?
DD: And what made you think like that? *Trembling from the close death encounter*
Keif: You can’t even defeat a shadow. Watch this. (Summons the shadow again. Keif whacks it with his mace lightly and it disappears)
DD: ...........  
Keif: All's not lost... At least you can dodge.... we'll try to build on that. Lets see... (Flips through a manual) nope...nope...nope...this one...lets try this - "Art of critical blows". It says here that it doesn’t require much physical strength but requires some dodging ability and a quick mind. Maybe you could use that. (Rips a few pages out and gives it to DD)
DD: What do you expect from civilians? That they are highly skilled martial artists capable of whooping monster ass? They're no civilians by then. Anyway, why do I need this?
Keif: Seen what happened when Ariel gets weekend? If it wasn’t for that guy you brought along you'd be monster feed right now. You should learn something to stay alive. Learn the basics as soon as possible ok? Go to bed. You don’t really look fine right now. (Both of them return to their rooms. Instead of sleeping, DD reads on the pages given by Keif before falling asleep. The next morning, Ariel seems to be somewhat better. DD practices a little of what he learned from the manual.)
Ariel: So what's this technique about?
DD: It's a skill of hitting weak points on a person. It's objective is to disable an opponent by thinking where to strike to cause serious damage even without using too much force. On the other hand, dodging is required since the user would likely to be weak physically.
Ariel: Just as I thought - You are a weakling! I prefer to bash monster head on!  
DD: And just who's living with a weakling?  
Ariel: ....................
DD: Just help me learn it quick ok?  Good to see you back in your cheerful self. We'll leave as soon as we can. Bean is insisting to join us in our quest for reasons that I don’t even know.
Ariel: Where does he stand on that? Does he support the assassination? Who is he anyway?  
DD: We haven’t told him about that yet. All I know is we are indebted to him for saving us the other day. You remember right?
Ariel: ....... I remember not much...
DD: Oh well, I'll tell you later. Now help me with this ok?

@After the story ended, Bean was been left alone, as Kael (Keif was introduced this way, to protect his real identity) and DD went outside... Bean went to a spot and lay there restlessly, thinking about his quest, and his next journey... After a while DD went inland instead of going to sleep, he went over a few notes... Apparently Kael has given it to him...

The next morning, they gathered around after breakfast and DD finished training to discuss where should they be going...

Bean: Looks like I'm stuck with you, then... I don’t know for how long, but until then I'm going to do what I'm told... Say Kael do you have a bit more monster leg? I wouldn’t mind eating them cold  
DD: You really started to hook on it do you?
Bean: I don’t know... Maybe this will be our diet for a while... With all those monster and a Demon Lord after you... IF only one Demon Lord is after you... You better get used to it  
DD:  
Bean: Well, on to the real part... Where are we heading now? The city's off limits. Things haven't subsided yet...
DD: I don’t know...
Bean: That angel of yours not giving any hints??
DD: She is as clueless as I am...
Bean: This is going to be tough... But, we better get out of here ASAP. Necrid's going to be back soon...
DD: Kael any suggestions?

@Angel was deeply annoyed after that encounter with the enemy. Now, with anger burning hot in her, she desired to just simply whack the soul out of any monsters or demons. Looking at ElderG's battle, she long to interrupt, but knew that it was against the order of a Priest to interrupt any 1 on 1 battle without the permission of the other party.

*Ceh!! Come on... no demons at all? Blast it!! *

Suddenly the earth starts to tremble, but it seems that it's only shaking where Angel's standing. Realizing something is wrong, she quickly Levitate herself. From above, the piece of land was still shaking tremendously. And slowly from benign it, out came a monster that took the resemblances of a fire dragon. Forceful and fiery, the monster starts to trample every single thing around it madly.

*Ah, just as I needed, exercise!!! *

Angel fly around the monster to attracts it's attention, which was successful as the monster stopped trampling but starts flying as well, in hot pursuit of Angel who is now directing that monster out of King's City.

*Better get it far away, or I’ll have a mass resurrection to do later, not to forget the whole city will be ruined and I’ll be blame on it. COME ON YOU SLOW DUCK!! CAN"T FLY VERY WELL, AREN"T YOU? *

That really makes the monster angry. It starts firing mouthful of fireballs at Angel, who avoided it with ease.

*IS THAT ALL U HAVE? *

@“Very impressive. I was expecting this much from you, at the very least.”

His taunting passed over my head as I took another swing at his neck. Although he was left with only one sword – the other lay in half about 10 meters away – he was still at the advantage ever since this battle started. Let’s talk about his movement. Every time I had him within striking range and brought Soul down, he would vanish like the wind only to appear at my rear. Many times, I barely avoided his strikes but I wouldn’t trust my luck anytime soon; it was just a matter of time. The Grand Rail I used earlier was just to avoid this fate. But that was then, now is now. I was losing energy fast and my clock was ticking out too. He had jumped out of striking distance but if he was smart enough to not parry my attacks then he would have seen through my next attack.

I wasn’t thinking of that when I unleashed it.

“SOUL EDGE!!” I cried and slashed horizontally at waist level. The air beyond me flickered as I completed the arc. I knew it was a superb attack but it was seriously flawed; my target wasn’t there. My eyes caught sight of him just as he landed next to a house, stared at it and gave it a light nudge. Without warning its top part came crashing down, a clean cut clearly visible across the building at waist level. In my mind I knew the same fate had befallen every building that had lain within my slash angle.

He whistled. “Just like he said; there’s nothing that will stop the blade of the soul.” He then shifted his attention back to me. “This makes things a little interesting.” He then loosens the grip on his sword and freed his left hand. I couldn’t remember clearly what happened next but it was warm… VERY warm.

Actually, it bordered at star core temperature, but we didn’t know about that then.

“FIRNAR BLAZE!!” The heat blast of that spell hit me even before the blazing whitish blue pillar of fire – plasma actually but then the word didn’t exist – came rushing at me. Instinctively I pulled Soul towards me with its tip aimed at the fire pillar and brought forth my soul.

“SOUL EDGE BARRIER FORM!!” A wall of purest reality came into existence at the swords tip, drawing fine cuts onto the stone roads and buildings that were in its way. And it meets the rushing pillar head on. That was an eye opener for me; now I know how a sword feels when being in the furnace. The spell was short lasting, so I was lucky to only get away with a sudden increase of surrounding temperature.

But my luck just ran out.

As the invisible wall dissipated, I felt heavy and succumbed to my exhaustion. I was so weakened that my grip loosened and my sword’s blade submitted to gravity… and clattered against the stones. The ethereal glow that had surrounded Soul was nowhere to be seen the power that was imbued gone. Although I was only 20, I felt no different then an aged men in his 70’s. This was the drawback of the Soul Edge; its dependence’s on life force.

“Really reckless, are you? You have barely enough life force to keep you alive. Too bad you won’t need it now.” He then raised his free hand and readied the finisher.

I never liked ends, especially my own. It seemed inevitable but who said my bag of tricks was empty? My last trump card was reserved for the most desperate situations and now seemed to fit the criteria perfectly. I went into a crouch, freed my right hand from Soul’s handle, lowered the shelve and let the black eye shaped jewel – which I must tell you now is named Silent Iris – catch a glimpse of Soul’s hilt. No sooner had I done that, the symbols on Soul were filled with a bloody red glow before the blade became fully immersed in a void like flame, concealing the sword for the eyes of all.

“What the…” He said, shocked. I wasn’t going to give him time to recover so I had deal the first blow, dying or not.

“SOUL BREAKER SHADOW BOLT FORM!!” I raised Soul and impaled her into the earth; a eight star pentagram formed as I did. Small circular black portals opened at the tips of the star and eight long thick void bolts shot out from them, spiraling up into the sky. And when they came back down it was a sight to behold… or fear.

“LUNIMUS BARRIER!!” He cried, creating a wall of light in front of him. It worked perfectly; shadows are afraid of light, or did you forget? I didn’t, however, work on me. As the barrier vanished, I jumped forward, sword held behind and I arched it downwards. He was quick to react, bring forth is massive sword to hold the attack. I couldn’t tell if he was grinning behind that steel mask of his but his impression was certainly priceless when I grinned back, wider.

“Like I said, it ends… NOW!!” With every ounce of strength remaining, I brought down the void blade, cutting through his sword and leaving a slash mark running down his torso. To finish it off, the shadow bolts that were warded off returned, this time from behind. Each bolt that connected with his body made it quaver. When every bolt had strike its target, they reappeared dragging an ethereal body out of the now empty husk and returned to the void blade, taking the silent soul with them. As the last of the soul entered the blade, the dark flames that had surrounded Soul vanished with the wind.

I slumped to the stone pavement, spread out and panting hard. That had taken ALL out of me. If you want to know, the Soul Breaker was the worst gamble I could have made at that time. When Soul was enhanced by Luminous Iris – yes, that’s the name of the bright jewel -, Soul drew its power from my soul, thus draining my life force. Life force isn’t lost forever thought. The void of life force will draw life force from the surroundings, thus filling up the gap. It’s a slow process but very necessary. Soul Breaker, on the other hand is almost the direct opposite. It still required life force but for a different purpose to calculate time. Yes, time. Soul Breaker hungers for a soul and if one is not provided within that time frame, the forfeit will be mine. See what a crazy gamble I made?

In the distance, I heard clapping. My ego said it was the crowd, but it wasn’t a crowd clapping; it was only one. “Well done, well done.” I heard a voice speak out. “I didn’t think you would defeat Garnark but in doing so you have proven my assumptions wrong.”

I turned my head lazily. I felt no malice from the visitor and if he wanted to fight, it certainly didn’t show in his words. “Who are you?” I asked slowly, my voice almost a whisper.

“If you want my name, I have none and I have too many attached to remember. But, in this age and day, I’m called… Keel Impreda.”

I bolted upright instantly and fixed my eyes on the person my Task involved. We didn’t have to go to him he came to us. Or did he? He was tall, 6 feet 3 – 190cm – and had straight long trimmed jet black hair that reflected the moonlight… moonlight? Guess my fight had time warped my mind. Other then that, he had azure blue eyes that seem to hold more then it was giving. He wore a massive black clock and that was it; it wrapped around his entire body perfectly.

“Hmm… this will not do.” He thought aloud, his hand rubbing his chin. “Regina, get him out of there.” He ordered.

It was then I had the feeling like a part of me was being ripped out. The pain was overwhelming, so much so that I collapsed again, taking hard long breaths. I turned just I time to se the illuminating ethereal body of an angel holding by the arms the soul of my challenger, Garnark.

“Looks like you need some rest.” Keel observed. “Well, take your time. I’ll be here again tomorrow morning. Hope to see you again.” He turned and walked away, stopping a moment to add, “Remember, the balance must be maintained. You are neither savior nor sinner.” He then disappeared into a dark corner street.

Maintain the balance. We are neither saviors nor sinners. Those were first laws of being a Keeper. How did he know about them? Was he a former Keeper? That would explain the angel and the demon. But, even our highest-level Keepers, High Keepers can't gain an alliance with BOTH the light and dark. Who ever Keel Impreda was, I took those thoughts into me as my vision blurred into darkness…

@Kael: Hmm.... I don’t really know... But if you were to be looking for people to help you defeat the Demon Lord, I suggest you travel east, to the city with crimson sunsets. There, mighty warriors spill their blood to satisfy their desires to be the strongest. Maybe they'll find more fun entertaining the Demon Lord while you guys have a look around. Who knows, the guy you're all looking for might be there. (Bumps DD with his elbow under the table, out of Bean's view)  
DD: So what do you think of it Ariel?
Ariel: We have no clues about his whereabouts so we might as well start there first. *Nods head in acknowledgement of Keif's hint*
Kael: I've already got some supplies for your journey waiting for you on the outside. At least YOU wont starve DD. (points at a small cart laden with some clothes and food outside the house)
DD: Great! At least I wont have to eat "that" all the way there. (Pokes the plate of roast monster meat served as breakfast)  
(A stray fireball from the dragon Angel is battling hits the cart, sending it into a cloud of smoke. DD =   )
DD: Our supplies...  (wakes himself up to reality) What the hell? Are we under attack again? (Looks at the outside) Nothing there but a bird chasing a bug around.............. (The dragon is chasing Angel high above the ground right?  )
Ariel: We should get moving nonetheless.... We don’t want to wait until the Demon Lord returns here to wreck havoc in search of us. Keif... oops I mean Kael, do you have a map to the city you mentioned?
Kaef: I'm sorry... the only map I have was there.... (Points at the pile of ash that was the supply cart a few moment ago)
DD: Maybe we'll try asking the people in town. Let's get moving. We need to get new supplies from the town and survey the damage done because of us right? Oh yeah, how bout you Bean? Been to that city before? What's the name again?
(A few more fireballs rains down on the graveyard outside the house)
DD: Maybe it'll safer to stay here instead...for now. (Hides under the table)

@Kael: Hmm...... I don’t really know..... But if you were to be looking for people to help you defeat the Demon Lord, I suggest you travel east, to the city with crimson sunsets. There, mighty warriors spill their blood to satisfy their desires to be the strongest. Maybe they'll find more fun entertaining the Demon Lord while you guys have a lookaround. Who knows, the guy you're all looking for might be there. (bumps DD with his elbow under the table, out of Bean's view  )

While Kael and DD went under the table, Bean surveyed the another battle that took place... A big bird was chasing a bug around... And suddenly it rained fireballs at that place... One of the fireball struck a small cart parked outside the house... DD, suddenly awoken by the destruction of the cart, went outside and noticed it too... Bean just stood his ground, still surveying the battle, and wonder just what made it rained fireball... Then he went into the house with DD

Ariel : We should get moving nonetheless.... We don’t want to wait until the Demon Lord returns here to wreck havoc in search of us. Keif..... oops I mean Kael, do you have a map to the city you mentioned?
Kaef : I'm sorry... the only map I have was there.... (points at the pile of ash that was the supply cart a few moment ago)
DD : Maybe we'll try asking the people in town. Let's get moving. We need to get new supplies from the town and survey the damage done because of us right? Oh yeah, how bout you Bean? Been to that city before? What's the name again?
(A few more fireballs rains down on the graveyard outside the house)
DD : Maybe it'll safer to stay here instead.......for now. (Hides under the table )
(Bean followed him, just making time to grab another piece of monster meat)
Bean: Man this is really really good Kael, wonder how you can make such a gross thing tasty...
Kael: Thanks  
DD:  
Bean: Well crimson sunsets to the east, mighty warriors, strongest there is ka?? I think it's name is Sirroth or something like that... Cant remember much, I have not so very good memory... Havent been in that city only, the outskirts... never know if an agent might be lurking there...
Kael: Well then to pass the time, I have to ask you one question... Ariel if you would come out...
(Angel took over DD)

Kael: Now this black staff you mentioned, do you rememeber what is its name??
Bean: Nope, Necrid didn’t told me... He told me that no one was able to wield it though...
Kael: But this black staff, it was black right?
Bean: Yeah, and there is some inscription on it that I could feel with my hand as I wield it... Don’t know what it means though

(Kael and Ariel looked at each other, as something began to comprehend between them)

Bean: What, you both know about this staff didn’t you?
Kael: ...
Ariel: ... It could never be wielded by a mere human, perhaps...
Bean: Perhaps what???
Ariel: Nothing...
Bean: Kael? Would you like to explain?
Kael: I can’t understand it either, how can you wield the Black Rygar Staff?
Bean: Black Rygar Staff?
Kael: Nothing, if I explain it to you it will take a very long time...
Ariel: Yeah... Let's just wait this out... (Gave control back to DD)

@With the monster hot on her pursuits, Angel flies into the Greesania Woods, southeast of King's City.

*I'll be able to use this opportunity to finish my other task assign by the Convent's Elders*

While you are on the task, there is something else that I will like you to do as a side task. This task will not interferes with your main task, but it shall be done along the task. Just bear it in your mind and do it when the time arrives. And keep it out of the Keeper's knowledge. I want you to flatten the Greesania Woods, I am sure you knew of the wood's dwellers interruption on some matters regarding the King's Regime and ours very own regime. They are very dangerous to many future planning, His Majesty wants them dead make sure none of them survive.
The monster flying close to Angel constantly fires mouthful of fireballs towards her. Taking full use of the monster attacks, Angel fly low among the trees of the Greesania Wood, letting those fireballs to eat the woods bits by bits. Soon the woods start to come ablaze with red flames eating it’s every single habitual. With triumph seems to be in hands, Angel directs the mad monster around the whole woods, making sure every single corners of it are completely burned.

*This is easy*

Suddenly, from the woods, a few dark arrow spells were dashing out directly at Angel. Realizing it, Angel uses spell to deflect the upcoming attack.

*Well, should have guess, the damned dwellers. I shall let the monster finish them off. A simple spell shall do it well*

@An exodus follows the blazing forest.
Bean: Do you guys smell something? *Sniffs around* and do I hear footsteps? *Leans onto the ground*
Kael looks out of the window.
Kael: Stampede! Close the windows shut the doors quick!
(All openings have been sealed. but the footsteps get louder and louder and soon, the inhabitants of the forest swamp the exterior of the house. The windows and doors seem to be failing under the weight of the forest dwellers, which look like..........

@*Spirits of the universe, dwellers of the past, souls of the future, grant upon me your priceless possession, give me the power to take control on my enemies and foes, guide me and lead me well, MIND'S BIND*

Immediately the monster stops chasing Angel. In fact it starts to look at Angel, as if waiting for her to give order to it. It seems like the monster is under Angel's control.

*Kill them all. Destroy the wood. *Angel speaks to the monster while pointing towards the woods and its dwellers.

The monster almost at once took the order loyally and strikes at the woods, sending mouthful of flames to it. It chases the woods' dwellers in hot pursuit to finish them. One by one the dwellers were slain by the monster. Many of them sent spells flying towards the monster but it has no effect what so ever on it. Realizing that their attempts are failing them, they run as fast as their legs could carry them, with the monster hot on their trail. Unfortunately, it was a hopeless escape, as all of them died almost immediately when the monster catch ups with them.

It was only a few tens minutes, but the woods is now taking the resemblances to a plain, a red-hot plain to be exact. Hovering above it were Angel and the monster. With a wide grin on her face, Angel was beaming inside as her side task was completed in such an easy way. Looking at the monster, Angel ponders what she should do to it.

*Ah, shouldn't have use a permanent spell, now I am stuck with it.... what am I going to do with it? .... Well, I think this thing will be useful as a transport, plus that Keeper can't teleport, might as well make good use out of this*

@When I got around, I found myself staring at the ceiling, lying on a bed in a small, shabby room. Comfy, but what was I doing here?

“About time you came around. I thought you had had it.” A familiar voice said from my side. Instinctively, I turned, finding myself face to face with Trevor… again.

“How… long have I been out?” I asked slowly. I was tired and my body agreed with me.

“Not long… about 3 hours since you meet Keel. Don’t look so shocked. After all, a Keeper always knows.”

3 hours… won’t be long before sunrise. And when the starlight baths the horizon in shades of crimson red and gold, I’ll meet him again. But for now, I focus on recuperating my fallen body.

“Any idea who this Keel guy is?” Considering the superiority of the Keeper Intelligence, I didn’t see why my question couldn’t be answered.

Trevor looked at me with a beaten look on his face. “Strangely enough, the file on Keel Impreda dates back only 3 months. Before that, we have nothing on him. Its like he was born 3 months ago!”

“It can’t be helped, I guess. I have this feeling that Keel is tiring to stay as inconspicuous as possible.” I told him.

“With you an exception.” Trevor added. “Wonder why he wants to surrender his anonymity just to meet you?”

I shrugged, “Your guess is as good as mine.”

I think by then Trevor had taken this conversation long pass his planed time as he got up from the chair and made his way to the door, where a backpack stood waiting. “Well, got to go. My gut tells me when day breaks, I wouldn’t want to be anywhere near this city.” And he left… fast.

Later when my strength had returned, I took to the streets to observe the damage Garnark and I had done. I had won on property damage and while no lives were lost, Garnack had certainly injured one quarter of the city’s population, most still lying on makeshift beds that were set up by the church to treat the injured.

The sky was dark with a light hue of blue creeping up on the darkness from the east. Dawn was breaking and I had yet to see any sign of Keel. Not that I wanted to meet him anyway. At best, I could only use 50 percent of my strength. That means any physical or magical confrontation with Keel was to be avoided.

I hope…

I wondered around the city square where the massive church tent stood. No use going to comfort the injured they will most likely blame me for their misfortunes. The knights and crusaders were busy too. Never in the history of Matherauimme had they been attacked twice on the same day. And by two different forces too, but they didn’t know that. Just to say, the city was swarming with soldiers. Before I knew it, the sun had risen above roof level and blinded me with its glare.

“Early, I see. Excited?” I heard Keel’s voice to my left. There he stood with a short girl dressed in a white summer dress standing on his left. She was petite; 5 feet tall at most, had waist length gold hair that reflected the sun’s rays like mirrors, gold colored eyes and light colored skin. To simply put it, she was radiant. Strangely enough, something clicked within me and her identity came to me naturally, like I had known her for ages. But as I was focused on her, I didn’t notice the third. A young gentleman about my height was standing by Keel’s right, his purple hair long but neatly trimmed, clad in a blue suit and matching pants. Unlike the rest, this one was a total stranger… for now.

Keel smiled, the girl smiled and the gentleman grinned.

The girl’s smile gave me an unnatural feeling of calmness but the gentleman’s grin made me uneasy. And there I lay, confused with my emotions before sense slapped me back to reality.

“Not going to introduce them? Since they are here, might as well know them.”

“So sorry.” Keel said politely, “This lovely young lady here is Regina, Angel of Lost Souls. I think you two have meet, right Regina?”

“Yes, when I had to pull Garnark out of him.” Her voice, while soft, was sweet as honey. “Forgive me if I hurt you. It was never my intention.” She apologized, bowing slightly.

“Uh… it is of no matter now. What pass has passed.” Can’t say a to her, right?

“And this ‘gentleman’ here,” he was so obviously sarcastic that the said gentleman scoffed at him, “is Xrnon, Demon of False Hope.”

At was true then; Keel has an Angel and Demon under his wing. Who is he?

“Where’s Garnark?” I asked. His absence bothered me and didn’t say too well for Keel, not that anything has been said before.

“He’s cooling off. Unlike superior brings, sprites require a longer time to reenergize themselves.” He told me.

A ghost! I had been fighting a ghost!! And that drew all out of me!! Either that ghost was impossibly strong or I was unbelievably weak.

“Once again, destiny plays her cards down.’ He said to on one in particular. “Let’s see how good her opening is.”

At instinct, my hand went for Soul’s hilt, posed ready to draw. Keel raised his hand and pointed at me with his index finger. On his bare arm, a metallic double interlocked circular bracelet caught my attention. I didn’t know that time, but that was the first clue to Keel’s identity.

“Here’s the sign.” A magical circle, its center at his fingertip, materialized on command. It was a strangest magical circle I had ever seen in my years of training with the arts; the center rune was Jar, rune of unification. It was encircled within a runic circle that was the center for a five-point pentagram, which in turn was encircled in another runic circle that again became the center for a six-point pentagram. To complete the circle, the six-point pentagram was also incased in a runic circle. Other then, the rune Jar, the other runes were alien. It then disappeared as quickly as it had appeared.

“When you see it, come find me in the Laguna ruins. Oh, and don’t come alone.” Keel and his companions then turned and began to walk away. I tried to stop them, but my voice was silence and my body, stone. And I watched as the blended into the crowd of knights and vanished with the strange black wind. When I regained my composure, I let the words Keel had worded swirl within my head, all the while trying to make some sense of his babble.

And then, I saw the sign.

Actually, everyone at the city square saw it. Later, I was certain the whole city saw the sign. The Jar rune was placed right in the middle of the square, glowing with an ethereal yellow hue. And it was BIG. I turned my focus on the whole square and finally saw the bigger picture; the runic circle than encircled Jar was visible at the edges of the city square. In proportions, the magical circle would cover a massive portion of the city. But something had been plaguing my mind ever since I saw that circle. I quickly searched my mind for any reference.

It came rather quickly, as if it was suppose to happen.

I looked at the confused faces that were staring at the unknown light and dove deep into their hearts. Hope, faith, love… they all were brimming with life and chasing after their dreams for their future. I can’t remember how many times I had held back my tears, but as I charged Soul with Luminous Iris, the tears began trickling out.

For their fates had been sealed the moment they saw the sign.

The five-point star of elements and the six point star of planes; yes, I knew what the sign was. The five-point star brought together the five elements fire, water, wind, earth, and sprite. The six planes heaven, hell and the four elemental planes signified the sources of these elements. The outer runic circle signified the world where all of these elements exist. And with the rune Jar, all will be one, unified into one power.

The ultimate elemental spell; GRAND END!!

I encased myself with my Soul Edge and waited for what seemed an eternity. Then, a light brighter then that of any star engulfed the space within the magical circle and a massive pillar of light rose to the heavens. There were no screams or suffering; they were all dead within nanoseconds. The pillar stood there, pulsing every second or so, for about half a minute before dispersing. As my vision returned, I laid my eyes on the destruction that lay before me. There were no ruins, no bodies, nothing but charred, barren land.

Matherauimme, the King’s City was all but a memory now...

~*~

@After what it seemed an eternity the stampede finally ended... All of them went out of their hiding place under the table... "I'm glad the house held out from that stampede", Kael said... Bean just went outside quietly followed by DD and lastly Kael... Kael whistled as they surveyed the carnage outside. There was no jungle anymore, there was only plain flat lands... all the trees is burning...

Kael: We have to find another place for a refuge. If we stay here much longer we'll be cooked...
DD: Yeah, Bean, you're coming??

Bean eyes was transfixed on something that was flying away from the scene... He wondered why does it burned the jungle... Just before it was engaging something... His concentration was broken by DD's voice

DD: Hey Brother, we have to get out of here... or else we will roasted...
Bean: Yeah...
DD: Well then, while we at it let's go to Sirroth then... Let's head to the East Gate then, since we are traveling east right? Kael, you going to come with us??
Kael: I don’t know, but I will follow you to the East Gate first (DD, you decide on this one hehehe)

As they went to the East Gate, they saw another carnage, this time inside the city... There were wounded everywhere...

Bean: It's amazing the city still standing... If the monsters were to attack seriously, the city would be leveled to the ground...

As they almost reached the East Gate, suddenly they noticed a yellow rune appeared above the town square in shape of a jar, with a runic circle encircled the city. Looks of comprehension dawned upon Bean and Kael face...

Bean and Kael: OH GOD!!!
DD: What? What was that?!!
Bean: No time to explain! We have to get out of here fast!!!
Kael: Yeah! We have to get out of the circle fast!! Or we'll be dead!!1
DD: What?! Why?!
Bean: I said WE HAVE NO TIME TO EXPLAIN! JUST GET MOVING DAMNIT!!!!

They began to run towards the East Gate, and they made it just moments before a massive pillar of light rose to the heavens... they all fall to the ground due to the impact, guarding their eyes from the blinding light

Then it was over. They stood inches from what was Matherauimme, the King’s City... All is left was not even ruins, just barred charred land... DD looked confused as both Kael and Bean watched the destruction grimly.

DD: What was that? Mind explaining to me now???
Kael: The ultimate elemental spell, Grand End... I assumed you have used it before Bean?
Bean: Yeah, but mine was hell though instead of heaven... I have only used it once... But still... who wants to destroy this city? Necrid wouldn’t do that...
Kael: If he can do it... this needs a whole lot of power to do... The staff would surely be suffice, but then again this was opened to the heaven, Necrid would...
Bean: ... open it to hell, like I do...
DD: Wait a minute! What is this ultimate spell?? Where does the city? Where is everybody?
Bean: To put it simply, gone...
DD: What, but how...?
Kael: Ariel explain it to him please if you want... So now you have no choice but to go to Sirroth right?
Bean: Yeah... are you going with us??

@“Hey, I think there’s someone there!!” a voice called out from a distance. It was faint, but it gave me hope; someone had survived this carnage. I mentally added another reason to find Keel… no, HUNT him. I got up from my crouched position and made my way towards the figure that lay in a distance.

As I approached, my eyes made out not one, but three guys there. One small guy, one big guy and the last, in between. They were panting hard and my only hypothesis was that they had run out of the city. That would make them as proficient, if not better, at magic then me. When I got nearer, I noticed that the medium built guy was waving at me. The other two, however, stared dumbstruck at me; their jaws left gapping, as if they had seen either a ghost, God or both.

“Impossible!!” the small one cried. “The Grand End’s effect is absolute!! Even I wouldn’t have survived!!”

“Maybe he was the one who cast the spell.” The medium guy offered.

“No, even the caster would be engulfed by the spell. If he could survive it, he must have a counter spell, which is impossible.” The big guy added.

And I was standing right in front of them!!

I let their debated continue for a while before my vein throbs reached bursting point and in anger, I launched Soul towards the center of the group. The small guy was quick to react, deflecting Soul back to me with his quarterstaff. I recovered Soul in midair, sheeted her, and stared back at the three pair of eyes that were scrutinizing me.

“He looks alive.” The medium one concluded. The others nodded their heads in agreement.

“I AM ALIVE!!”

“How did you survive!?” the small one jumped to the question.

I wasn’t in a mood to explain in detail, so I gave them my usual answer: “I have my ways. Don’t ask”

Full stop.

I guess they sensed that I wasn’t about to give away me secrets, so the never pressed on the topic. The small guy had the adventurer look while the others, peasants. I knew instantly that the big guy was no ordinary peasant; they don’t teach ultimate spells at town school. Well, I was sick of calling them by size; not only was it not polite, it was long too.

“I’m ElderG.” I introduced. “You guys have names, right?”

“Bean.”

“Name’s Keal.” My eyes narrowed. His name sounded closely like Keel.

“And I’m Daniel Delores. Please to meat you.” He extended his hand, which I took.

As I shock Daniel’s hand, I felt a burning sensation from Silent Iris and a warm, fussy feeling origination from Luminous Iris. There was no doubt about it; a light alignment superior being was among us.

“Where you guys headed now?” I asked. I had a destination, but no directions. Might as well follow them and pick up clues on the way.

“Sirroth.” DD answered.

“Mind if I join you all?”

They thought for a while before answering, “Sure”

But before we left, my gut feeling was that I had forgotten something. Something small, something loud, something faithful, something annoying, something precious, something beautiful, something… divine. There was something missing and it was…

“Where’s Angel!?”

~*~

@Angel: Wei, fly a bit faster will ya.
Monster: aaarrrrrrkkkkkkk......
Angel: *sweats drop* should have pay more attention in magical languages classes.... anyway~~ fast!!! To the king's city. *The spell, who use the spell to heaven.... that bloody Keeper better be alive*

The Monster and Angel reach the king's city, which is now a complete ruin.

Angel: ..... Gosh ...
Monster: arkkk, arkk, aaaarrkkkkkkk

Angel: oh shut up! I don't even understand what u arking about.
Monster: ark, ark, ark...
The monster suddenly shoot towards the ground. Panic, Angel held on to it, and stole a glance at the point where they are heading. 4 figures were standing there, cleary unaware of the up-coming monster with her on the back. Then one of looks up and

: AHHH!!!! MONSTER!!! RUN!!!!!

All 4 of them run, but the monster overtake them in a seconds, landing right in front of them. Still dizzy from the horrible flight, Angel dismounts the monster to get a better view at them. All 4 of them stood there, too shocked to move or speak, with their mouth wide open, staring at her and the monster. Then,

Angel: U!!! U are alive!!! Thanks GOD!!! Amen!

: ... u knew her? *looking at the guy addressed*
ElderG: .... everyone, this is Angel Loiusnere, Priestess of the Convent. I am on a mission with her and I am her temporary Keeper.
: ... so, she is your lady then?
ElderG: what? no! we are on a mission together, that's it. she is not my lady!!! (his cheeks blushes so furiously, it is glowing red)
: hahahahaahaha!! what then if not your lady since you are now her Keeper? not much different from a Knight guarding a lady.
ElderG: ...... it ... whatever it is, she no lady of mine!!
Angel: ... dun flatters yourself with such a thought, you are so damned weak to even be my slave then a knight. blunder Keeper.
: ooo, harsh Priestess eh? I thought all Priestess are saintly, no?
Angel: hahaha! unfortunately I am no saint. plus I am not a Priestess, Grand Priestess mind you. so watch your mouth! who are you?
: ah, Grand Priestess eh? then you are stronger than the Bishop?
Angel: answer my question..
: sorry, Bean. that's my name.
Angel: Bean? ok, yes and no. the Bishop has ability that I cannot use while I have powers he cannot use. the Bishop is more to Holy Protection and Sanctation, while I am Spell Caster, just like a Sorcerer, but I am Holy Elemental. got it?
Bean: ah, even Priest has such categories? never knew it.
Angel: now you know. u, the one standing behind, get out of your mask, you cannot fool me, angelic being. Get out of that pity guy's body. Never learn to occupied a body that can stand your aura?

@Angel : Show yourself! *suddenly, Kael moves his 1 arm that was behind his back to cast something* .....? What the? *can no longer sense Ariel's presence*
ElderG : What's wrong?
Angel : erm....nothing's wrong...... I could have swear I sensed another presence.......
DD : Nothing's wrong?.... the forest and the city.... both lost in a blink...... How did this come to be? *Everyone nods in agreement, with ElderG and Angel keeping their silence*
DD : More importantly, who's going to give me decent food?!!!! *everyone faints*
Bean : *pats DD on the back* Ah... The life of a wanderer begins... wait till I introduce you to the delicacies I can cook up along the way using available wild sources.  
DD : Please save me..... You guys have decent food right? Don’t you? *Sees both of them in battle gear* I guess not.  
Angel : Where are you all going?
ElderG : Sirroth. I have my own reasons.
DD and Bean : What a coincidence! We're heading there to find someone. Maybe we could help each other out on the way.  
ElderG : Hmm... *Thinks - You guys would more likely get in my way instead of helping me out.* 1 question first, how did you guys know the spell was going to hit? The spell is unforgiving.
Kael, DD and Bean : We were coming into the city from the cemetery at the outskirts of town. The forest fire made it unbearable for us so we didn’t wish to stay there long.
ElderG : What? You guys weren't affected by the spell? *Thinks to himself -> How do I know they'll be of any use? They escaped the spell because they weren't in the area of effect, not because they endured it. And they look ordinary too, especially DD. As if babysitting a priestess ain’t enough, I'll be babysitting them too* *Then starts a story about how dangerous the trip to Sirroth is to scare them from following)
DD : *unfazed* No matter how dangerous it is, I still have to go there. Not for myself, but for someone else who's depending on me.
Bean : I will follow DD. He won’t reach there alive without me.  
DD :  What did you just say? *Bean whistles away. ElderG changes his mind and feels they'd make the trip more interesting.*
Kael : Seeing that my humble city for years has been destroyed in front of my eyes and me as among the survivors of the holocaust, I wish to stay and search for other survivors, if there are any who escaped the city before it's end and haven’t been sent to a fiery grave. The dead have to be attended to ease their souls. The living shall have to pick up the remaining pieces and restore the city to its former glory. And I will be a part of the rebirth of the city.
DD : Let's scavenge the ruins of the city. There may still be things useful to us.
Bean : Good idea. Everything's free right? Finder's keepers!  *They split to 4 groups, DD alone, Bean alone, Kael alone, Angel with ElderG together*

*somewhere alone, digging through the remains of a medical hall*
Ariel : Something bothering me DD.
DD : What is it?
Ariel : The ElderG guy and Angel, the great Priestess. How could a mortal like him, have withstood the spell of finality, a spell strong enough to destroy everything that even we spirits would be lucky to have emerge alive. He escaped the spell even when he was at the epicenter where the spell hits the hardest.
DD : I don’t know. I don’t even know what "Grand End" is. You should know better.
Ariel : One more thing about ElderG, his bracelet's jewels... I felt that they recognized me....
DD : Come on now, I daydream but there's limits to it too.
Ariel : Maybe I'm just a little jumpy after what happened....Anyway, about Angel..... She's from the Convent and I can sense tremendous power in her, a power only a select few can hold and master. She even knew I was there! Thank god Kael muffled my presence with his special abilities.
DD : Well.... you did just say a select few... Lucky perhaps?
Ariel : If she is, then it would be an honour to meet her. But it would also mean our task would not be easier.
DD : .....? So what are you trying to tell me?
Ariel : I don’t know. Just be wary alright? *DD continuous to dig for potions used by the medical hall*

Kael, scouting the outskirts of the city, asked himself questions.
Kael : The reappearance of the cursed liquid, demons stalking watchers and now this, the Grand End. Even the Convent has sent out an extraordinary priestess to reclaim Keel...I think the superiors aren’t telling Ariel and me the whole story...........

*Somewhere else, digging at another site*
*Angel notices ElderG is somewhat disturbed by something even though he tries to act normal*
Angel : What's bothering you Keeper?
ElderG : Nothing. None of your business.
Angel : You can’t hide it from me. I don’t like people keeping secrets from me, especially if that someone is going to be traveling with me.  
ElderG : Suit yourself. The one who called himself DD.... The guy that looked normal? I can’t explain how but I feel he is more than what meets the eyes.
Angel : I too. I sensed the spiritual presence of 4 beings amongst the 3 of them. It could be a spirit known to them, or it could be other spirits spying on us. They even knew what "Grand End" was, even though humans can never use the spell. The spell also leaves everyone dead in it's wake too.
ElderG : What do you suggest? < Continue here? >

Bean is seen digging at the remains of tavern , looking for liquors to be brought along.
Bean : Hmm.... If it wasn't Necrid, who did this?

@Angel: I dun know.... there must be something that the Convent is not telling me, and I am not happy about it.
ElderG: ... I thought u knew everything about the task..
Angel: ... if they wish to not to disclose those details to me, what can I do? kill them?
ElderG: .. just asking, u dun have to be so rude to me u know.... I haven't done anything wrong to you...
Angel: I just dun like Keeper, and you are one.
ElderG: why? what have we, as to say Keepers done to you?
Angel: never u mind.
ElderG: I do mind, as it also concerns me. and I am your Keeper, how on earth am I suppose to be going through the task with u treating me like this?  
Angel: forget it. I am not telling, and there's nothing you can do about it. topic close or suffer. hey u, monsty, come here!

the monster that was busy searching around the place immediately comes to Angel as it was summoned.

ElderG: where did u get this.... thing?
Angel: put a permanent Pet Charm Spell on it. that darn idiot of a enemy summoned it to fight me, as if it could  so now it is my pet, I kind of regret it, I dun understand a single thing it ark about, I dun learn magical languages, hate it when I studied it in class.
ElderG: ark?  
Angel: that's the sound it makes every time it try telling me something.
ElderG: o, so what's its name?
Angel: don’t know, didn't name it yet. don't even know if it is a male or female dragon. you know how to identify?
ElderG: yup, leave that to me.

@As Bean wondered around the tavern, he wondered who has enough powers to cast Grand End... and how does one man survived that spell... He looked for liquor on what was the tavern, hoping it will clear his befuddled mind

: Looking for this?

Then he saw the old man, holding a flask of ale in his hand. Out of sudden rage Bean attacked the old man with his quarterstaff, tried to strike him with a diagonal blow to his neck, but the old man merely ducked and at the same instant struck an invisible blow to Bean's rib... Bean doubled over, clutching his ribs, and fell on one knee. His staff still held firmly on one hand though...

Old man: Impressive, if one of the lesser demons, or even a monster's chief would be obliterate to pieces from that blow, but you are still standing even you are a mere human... Very impressive indeed... Only you indeed can wield the Black Rygar Staff well...

Bean: Cursed you old man!!! Who are you, and what is this Black Rygar Staff you are talking about!! And who cast this spell???

Old man: Who am I, is no matter of you for now, but I will tell you about that staff... About this spell, it is no matter of yours...

Bean: Damn it old man! How can I trust you when I don’t even know you!!

Suddenly Bean was seized by some powers crushing him. He was levitated. Bean struggled against it, tried to break free and just as suddenly the powers broke. and he fell crumpled to the ground...

Old man: Again you surprised me, and again you prove yourself worthy of wielding that staff... But you have no choice but to trust me Bean!! Or else, you will never find your redemption!!!

Bean, still in pain after that strike, tried to haul himself up but to no avail... then the old man came to him and supported him as they walked towards the once graveyard...

Old man: Come, I know what you want next is some more monsters meat... But shut up, and let me do the talking...

Bean nodded grudgingly and began to walk towards the graveyard with him... The old man doesn’t seem old anymore...

Old man: The Black Rygar Staff is the deadliest, most powerful sorcerer staff ever made. It can amplified the power of its user. But few can withstand the pressure that came with it... Even demons can’t withstand it and was obliterated by it. The Light cant use it because, naturally, it is a Dark object...

Bean: So they as powerful as the Bishop and that Grand Priestess

Old man: Maybe, we don’t know how far can it go, you, a mere human, can even cast the Grand End with it... with a twist. But this is what is certain. First of all, to use it one must have sufficient power to withstand the pressure, second one must be with the Dark once, and thirdly it will consume the wielder if the wielder cant control it... the third reason is why Necrid didn’t wield it... why most demons, even the high-ranking who has more than enough powers to control it, didn’t wield it...

Bean: Necrid doesn’t have enough powers? He's a Demon Lord...

Old man: Yes, he is. But a Demon Lord only controls lesser demons and such. He too accepts his orders from a high-ranking demons...

Bean: But why...

Old man: Now you came into the picture. Now there is a being that can wield it, who has sided with demons once, and during his reign of it, he can control it. The Black Rygar Staff was very powerful, it almost tipped the balance of Light and Dark towards the Dark's side! and that being... is a human... So we thought, what don’t we use the Dark's own powers against them? Now comes YOUR task...

They arrived at graveyard... Bean, feeling a bit better, began to scrounge the graveyard for monsters meat...

Old man: Your task is such, retrieve the Black Rygar Staff and use its powers against the Dark... and once you had regained it, use whatever you can do to defend the angel and the young man... Also there is a demon that needs killing. Its name is Karthok, and he's the creator of the Staff...

Bean: Kar-what?? Creator of the Staff?
Old man: Karthok. How he created the Staff is none of your concern... yet...
Bean: But you said that I need to protect someone or something... Is it the angel in DD's head or that Priestess?

Old man: That is also your task since DD is too weak... First retrieve the Staff, in the meantime protect them till I said so... Don’t forget there is another that needs protection... So maybe u will part in the way... They have their own task...

Bean: So I got to do what I got to do then.

Old man: Yes. After that your redemption is almost complete... You done?

Bean: Yeah, can’t find any meat though. Hope a few will attack us then, I want to roast them.

Old man: So be it, the Staff is being carried by Necrid himself, covered in some cloth to lessen the consume effect.

Bean: Old man...

Old man: Yeah?

Bean: Can I have that ale, and a wineskin more of ale?

Old man: *sighs* as you wish...

Bean: Thanks...

As Bean began walking towards the East Gate, the old man vanished into thin air. He thought to himself, he has to wield the Staff again, but now not under the control of a Demon. But his own... But now he has to worry about something else first, how to retrieve the Staff.

@“Uh… let’s see… how bout… Bob?”

“BOB!?” Angel cried in dismay, “You’re going to name it Bob!?”

“Why not? Bob sounds good for everything.”

“No it does not!! Give a better name before I give you a grave!” she demanded.

I shrugged. “All right. Let’s see… congratulations, it’s a she. That would make her… Femara.”

Angle gave me a blank stare. “Femara? What kind of name is that?”

I answered, “A dragon’s name.”

There was a moment of silence before Angel spoke, “I still think it’s weird, but at least it’s better then… Bob.”

“Good. Now your pet has a name and I think we have scoured the city remains enough. Let’s get back to the rest.” I suggested. Angel took up that offer and we trotted to the rendezvous point. But, a gut feeling was compelling me towards the center of the city; or what remained of it. In my mind, I knew there was nothing left there, except painful memories burned into my mind. I was much acquainted with death, but watching so many die, not knowing what hit them, was a different story.

Before I knew it, I had separated from Angel and was standing exactly where is stood when the city was still here. There truly was nothing in sight, so why did I come here? Just then, I heard it.

A song.

It wasn’t like any song I had ever heard. It felt like I was hit by a wave of calmness. The song echoed in my mind and cleared away my doubts and anxiety. For once since this whole afire started, I felt peace. The calmness that had overcome me had also heightened my senses, although how it happened was beyond me. There were footsteps and they were coming this way. And before I knew it, she was standing right in front of me.

Regina, Angel of Lost Souls.

“Hello ElderG. Nice meeting you here again.” She spoke politely.

“Uh… nice meeting you here too.” I dumbly said. She was alone, from what I can tell. “What are you doing here?”

“I can feel them; all the souls that remain here. Lost, unguided, they will harbor great hatred and despair, turning those emotions loose on the living.”

“Guide of the lost ones, huh?” It had dawned on me earlier. “I wonder now what his motives are. Is it to destroy the world? If so, you wouldn’t be here because without you, nothing is going to be reborn out of these ashes.” I prodded the desolate soil.

She smiled again. “You understand well, just like he said.”

There was it again, ‘Just like he said’. Why do I get the feeling that Keel knows more about me then I know myself? Arg! This is sickening!

“If I didn’t, I wouldn’t have survived past age 6.” I said in a small voice. I never liked to talk about my past. For me, bygones are bygones, to be reflected upon but not always to be remembered.

“I see. Then, please excuse me.”

Her voice was clear and her melody filled every corner of the barren land. The pitch perfect tune she produced entered my mind and raised me to a level of peacefulness I had never experienced before. I lost track of time, suspended within the reality created by the resonating air that encircled me. I felt a surge of life force, so great words couldn’t describe it.

“Gina, you’ve stayed here too long. They’ve noticed you.” A low voice was heard through the music and with that, the melody stopped. When I came around, he was there, dressed exactly the same as he did hours before, standing right in front of Regina.

The Demon of False Hope, Xrnon.

“But,” she protested, “I’m not done yet. So many more have yet to be guided.”

“Don’t be stupid! You know there’re others here and they can do the same job, only slower and less effective. Now quit complaining and let’s get back.” He firmly said. Regina slowly dropped her head and nodded.

In the distance, I could hear footsteps, quick paced ones, and they were approaching fast. If I was more attentive, I would have noticed that Xrnon had reached out for Regina’s hand, only to stop just before touching her.

“Hey ElderG,” Xrnon spoke to me, “we’ll be seeing each other soon.” He then grinned.

“Yeh, real soon.” And I grinned back. This time, I caught by the corner of my eye Regina smiling, but to whom I never did find out. She then glowed white and vanished as quickly. Xrnon followed suit, but glowed red.

Few moments later, Keal, DD, and Bean came rushing in. Keal was searching the surroundings in search of something I wouldn’t know, DD seems to be talking to himself… weird, while Bean just stood there. Angel and Femara came later, saying they had just missed the other three. Soon, everyone had his or her suspicion eyes on me.

“Why were you here?” Keal asked.

“I just wanted to be here. Is that a crime?” I was a little pissed. After all, who won’t be if everyone is looking at you with those kinds of eyes?

“Damn. Maybe it’s my imagination…” he trailed off from there. I was feeling tired remaining in this place, so I beckoned them to follow me as I started walking.

“Well? Let’s go.”

~*~

@As Bean approached the East Gate, he saw DD was there already...

Bean: You, you find anything???
DD: Yeah I got some potions, antidotes and stuff... What about you?
Bean: I was looking of some more monster delicacy, but the graveyard has been cleaned out pretty thoroughly... Well maybe a few of them will attack us, so we can roast them on the way muahaha
DD: You are pretty obsessed with this aren’t you...
Bean: Hey you got a decent meal when u got into a town or village, provided u have enough money to pay for it... mostly I live on scraps and hunting in the forest... even that was hard considering I don’t have any bow...
DD: God help me please!!
Bean: Don’t worry, you'll get used to it  

Suddenly Kael came running to them...

Kael: WHERE'S ELDER?
DD: Don’t know... Is something wrong??
Bean: Yeah something's wrong... I felt something too...
Kael: Damnit... Let's go to the square NOW!

(OOT: This is where the last part of EG's story fit in...)

EG: Well let's go...

The others started walking but Bean stood there... thinking about something... He felt a demon worse than Necrid was here, but he couldn’t figure out who he was, but somehow Necrid's stench was all over him... Suddenly DD was there beside him

DD: Oi, you coming?
Bean: (whispers) Si Mas shyr shi toli eindral...
DD: What? You said something?
Bean: Nothing... Let's go... We are falling behind...
(Inside's DD head)

Ariel: Aerenal Elven... Never knew he can spoke that language...
DD: What? What does he talking about?
Ariel: He said "The staff would be mine again"
DD: Huh?

@Kael excuses himself to return to his residence.
Back there, his returns to his true form and ascends to the skies, to the place where they were from.
Keif (now back in his homeland so using real name) : (tells the guards) Call the Superiors. I have something important to discuss with them. (one of the guards goes to make a request and is granted. They then allow Keif into the hall of the Superiors.)
Superiors : What is it do you deem important enough to call us here?
Keif : The person Keel. You sent Ariel to kill him right? Who is he?
Superiors : You asked the same question the previous time you came here. And we told you that you don’t need to know. You just have to do as your told. Don’t you understand?
Keif : Ariel demands an answer before following up with the order. She refuses to kill someone without a reason.
Superiors : She doesn’t need to know. You are there to ensure she does as what is ordered.
Keif : Then I will need to know the reason. We had a rule to never interfere with mortal

[Angel]

@suddenly,

Bean: what the??

Angel was pointing her finger, which was equipped with an ancient magic ring at Bean, glaring at him with her red eyes.

Angel: you want to watch your mouth if you want to survive the trip.
Bean: hey, cool it, missy, I was just joking *sweats profusely*
Angel: I take that as an insult!! and u better shut your mouth out of that topic or SUFFER!!
ElderG: Angel, isn’t that a little too much, calm down will ya?
Angel: when I want opinion I will ask!!!
DD: hey, hey, cool down all. we are all going to be a team, dun go biting each other head's off *sweats*
Ariel: careful, DD, she is no sweet holy little priestess, something is very strange with her, very strange indeed.
DD: (in his head) Okie.... she really dun seems like a priestess at all, with that temper of hers.
ElderG: fine! can we move now? only I am starving now?
Bean: .... would you mind to spare me off, my lady?
Angel: .... Femara!!!

Femara, the pet-dragon comes soaring from the sky. it landed with a soft tut on the ground right next to Angel. Without hesitation, Angel climbs onto it, and looks at ElderG and the rest...

Angel: well, what are you all waiting for? we are flying!!
ElderG: WHOA!! u sure? I dun think Femara can stand all of us at once..
Angel: of course it can. can you, Femara?
Femara: arkkkk.... *nodded*
Angel: there, up all!!
DD: ..... I am not going on that thing.... *backing away*
bean: I am not complaining.

@As DD takes steps backwards, and with every step he takes Angel's face turns even redder.  
Ariel : *whispers* Come on, it's just a ride in the sky, what's to be afraid of? If you don’t.......*points towards Angel*
DD : *sweat drop* Humans were never supposed to fly in the first place, right?...*sees Angel*....erm.......... On second thought.........maybe it's not THAT scary.......... *hesitantly boards the "airline" and soon they depart*
(In the air, DD screams all along the way, stopping occasionally to catch his breath)
Bean : Quit whining would ya? I'm trying to get some sleep. *Knocks DD's head*
DD : I'm going to throw up if I don’t set foot on solid ground. *continues screaming*
*Bean looks around... then asks Angel*
Bean : It's approaching nightfall... and the lack of stars in the sky indicates rain soon. Furthermore, your "pet" seems to be tiring from its burden. We should consider looking for a shelter for the night.
Angel : Very well. I don’t like sleeping outdoors with all those critters everywhere. And that guy is really getting on my nerves.  
*After a while they spot a building in the horizon and slowly descend towards it*

Meanwhile, Keif is patiently waiting for his contacts to gather information for him.
Keif : Hmm... Looks like there's nothing worthwhile in this stack of files. Seems like they don’t keep any info about Keel lying about. Maybe I'll have a better haul from my contacts tomorrow.

@As they prepared for shelter at the abandoned manor, they could hear DD's shaking voice asking, "Errr... They don’t have any ghosts around here aren’t they??"

Bean shakes his head and approached ElderG...

Bean: She seemed a bit waspish for a priestess ain’t she?
EG: Who, Angel?
Bean: Who else??
EG: I don’t know, haven’t known her for so long now... Besides she said she hate Keeper's like me  ,
Bean: Well, she acting like no priestess, more like... I don’t know the word for it... Who's going to take first watch?
EG: What? Well...
Bean: Tell you what, I take first watch, I’ll wake you till your shift... I don’t know if I’m over-reacting but let's take this as a safety precaution ok?
EG: OK...
Bean: And keep that sword close... Never know what will happen tonight...
EG: (watches as Bean took his staff and put on his cloak) I thought you are taking the first watch, where are you going? It is going to rain
Bean: Scouting... Never mind me, stay close to them... I smell something in the air... Maybe it's the damn dragon muahahaha

Bean began to walk out of the manor, as EG pondered about what Bean had said... He said about "something in the air"... maybe it is just the dragon, or maybe it's...

@I held Soul close to my side, my right hand resting on her hilt; ready to unsheathe her at a moments notice. On my left, I focused on forming a powerful fireball but miniature in size. As soon as I succeeded, I put it out; I was ready for anything. Bean spoke of ‘something in the air’ and I didn’t like the sound of that. Better safe then sorry.

The rain came sooner then expected and muffled all noise of the outside. Bean had been gone for a while but I wouldn’t worry too much. Other then that, Angel had gotten up again, her fifth time, complaining about the accommodation. DD on the other hand slept like a rock; a noisy rock. As for I, I couldn’t sleep; who could when you are sleeping with these people?

“Hey, why are you still sitting there for? Don’t you sleep?” Angel said in a drowsy voice.

“Only when I need to.” I answered. “Bean’s been out since before the rain started. Look’s like he ran into some trouble.”

“Trouble? Here? You take care of it. I’m going to sleep” With that, Angel dropped back into the makeshift futon. She must have cast a spell or something because she slept comfortably throughout the night.

I embraced the music the rain made, letting the melody flow through my mind like a lullaby. I was in desperate need for sleep but as always, my senses could never be blinded. My life as a Keeper would not permit me such pleasure. Even how as my mind sinks into peaceful darkness, I can still smell the damp soil that lay beyond the forest, feel every drop of rain as they crash into the ground and hear a fox moving her cubs from their waterlogged den. With that, I knew nothing would escape me, even as I dozed off to the music of nature.

~*~

@DD is awakened by thunder and decides to take a walk around the manor. He stops to take a look at the outside from a window and notices the place is locked from the outside during the occasional flashes of lightning.
DD : Why is everything locked from the outside? Shouldn't it be locked from the inside to keep the occupants safe? Even the barbs on the fence are faced inwards instead of outwards.
Ariel : Hmm... strange.........if it is built this way then it means....... People outside are trying to contain something on the inside....... *pulls down a partially ripped talisman that was stuck on the wall* Where have I seen this before? I can’t remember.......
DD : All this rain is forcing me to look for a toilet.........
Ariel : Do you know where it is?
DD : erm... no... but we can explore a little.....
*With Ariel by his side, he wasn’t too afraid to wander around the mansion. As he walked around, Ariel was getting somewhat restless.*
DD : What's wrong?
Ariel : Lost souls... they're everywhere.... The angel of lost souls doesn’t slack on the job but did she miss this place?
DD : Lost souls? You mean.......... ghosts? *shiver*
Ariel : Yes... And they seem restless too..... Don’t worry, they can’t hurt you. They are bound to the rules of the afterlife. *DD wipes off the sweat on his forehead and enters a room. A young lost girl soul approaches them*
Ariel : Wait... one of the souls is trying to talk to me... I can’t hear her, but I'll try lip reading..... "Beware.... of...... the.......darkness.......that.......*DD joins in but says will* .....has..... consume.......us.......all.....". Hey, you can see them DD?
DD : No. Just look at this. *On the wall, there's a writing "Beware of the darkness that will consume us all" in red wording* is this..... blood?
Ariel : ...... dried blood. It's been here for some time but there are some fresh ones...... *they both look around..... Bloodstains was everywhere.* what happened here? Are the lost souls a result of something that is happening here?
DD : I hope not. *gulp* where is the damned bathroom?......... *opens another door that leads into a big dark room. DD walks in but Ariel hits some sort of barrier and is left behind.*
Ariel : What's this? *Examines a line of dried blood on the floor. It is part of a pattern. While she was examining the pattern, unknown forces drag DD into another world*. Is this......Circle of Eternal Condemnation? DD, where are you? *looks around but DD is nowhere in sight* this is not good......... *screams* DD~~~!!!!!!!!!
Ariel : I must get the others. *passes through walls ala true spirit way and searches for Bean*
Ariel : *found Bean* Bean! I need your help! DD accidentally trespassed into a Circle of Condemnation! We must get him out quickly for the Circles are gateways for the darkness to escape daylight! Who knows what has been residing in the Circle here! With blood defiling these manor, I fear the worst. I can’t enter that area till the circle is broken!


Meanwhile, DD has been groping around in the darkness, not noticing he has been pulled into another world. Suddenly, someone lights up the place. A boy stood there, with a blade in hand.
Boy : Where's Ariel?
DD : *looks around*....... I...... don’t know...... Who are you?
Boy : It doesn’t matter. You'll be dead in a moment. Only then I'll find Ariel.
DD :  

In the underworld
Necrid : Wonder how's that rookie doing. Barging into my place and demanding that he be given a task to earn his stripes. Who does he think he is?  

Somewhere else, Keif is still going through the data provided by his contacts. He has found nothing useful but notices a black envelope in the middle of the stack of standard white files. After reading the contents of the black envelope, he leaves with the envelope and heads for a location specified on the envelope.

@The rain began as soon as Bean began to climb down a tree, a rather large tree that he used to scout the surroundings... He wanted to do another round of scouting but soon the rain has become unbearable. As he wanted to turn back and head to the manor, a new kind of coldness crept over him... A coldness he had felt before...

: FROST PRISON!

Bean was suddenly trapped inside some kind of ice prison, unable to move... But he recognized that voice, Necrid's voice!

Necrid: Well, well, well... looks like I got thee now... now will thou go back with me?

Bean couldn’t move an inch, but from the corners of his eyes he saw Necrid with a staff covered with some kind of cloth. The rain has covered his stench... Bean wanted to curse but couldn’t

Necrid: Forgive me, if I'm seemed a bit cruel. But thou have injured me using the Unholy Rage, and I hath felt thy power during thy meeting with that cursed old man... And so I thought, why not awaken thy power? Maybe with this, thou will come back to me...

Bean tried with his might to break the ice prison, but to no avail...

Necrid: It is worthless... I have conjured the prison using the staff's power, so naturally it is much powerful prison than before. To break it means thou must use all of thy powers inside thee... Well the night is chilly, so I bid thee farewell...

And he vanished. Bean tried to struggle against the ice prison but again to no avail... He thought "Well, looks like I’m going to die here"...

And then he thought "Goddamit, I can’t die here! Not until I found redemption" And he tried with all his might, concentrating on that single chance of redemption... And then he has lost it...

Ariel finally found Bean, and tried to say something to him... But then Ariel realized something, Bean's eyes were white!! Not only that, he was covered with some strange black aura, which are expanding with every passing moment...

Ariel: Oh no, he snapped!

Bean grated his teeth, and seemed to pull the expanding black aura towards him... He succeeded, and then looked at Ariel, eyes white, with a grin on his mouth... The black aura covered his hand, and began to take shape of a staff on his right hand

Ariel: Oh God, help! Err... he couldn’t hurt spirits right?? Right?

A swipe from him answered her question. Angel has to duck as the black staff passes over her, the aura gave her a definite chill to her bones...

Ariel: Nope, he can!! Oh what should I do?!! I'm powerless without DD! Snap out of it Bean!!

They continued like that for a while, Bean tried to hit Ariel, and Ariel ducking and evading his attacks. Then quite suddenly, Bean stopped, and Ariel watched as Bean tried to regain control of himself... The white eyes suddenly disappear, so is the black aura, as Bean knelt on the ground, panting for breath...

Bean: DAMNIT! What am I doing??? Got to get this rage under control... Oh Ariel, I'm so sorry, please forgive me...

Ariel watched as Bean tried to gather himself... She sensed something in him... Something new, something unholy broken loose inside him... But then...

Ariel: DD!! DD trapped in the Circle of Condemnation!! We must get him out!!

Bean: Circle of what? Get the others quickly!

But by then another scream was heard from the manor... the screams of both a male and female...

Bean: Angel and EG!!!

@Angel: what the hell? can't you see I am sleeping?
EG: I dun think they care though... what do you reckon they are? I’ve never seen these stuff before?
Angel: must be some dimensional creatures, who open portal here? real idiot!!
EG: what? what are we suppose to do now?
Angel: continue sleeping  , FIGHT of course, unless u wish to be flatten!!
EG: will u quit with that manners of yours? I am getting sick of it!!
Angel: NO!! and I have no time to entertain kids!
EG: oh, now I am a KID am I? you are going to pay for it!!
Angel: ah so, you want to fight me? or have you forgot your duty, mister Keeper?
EG: .... you ......  *grrrr*

those creatures advance toward Angel and EG but seems to be a tad bit slowly. perhaps it was because of the dimensional differences. but it gave the both of them time to come up with counter.

Angel: they are creatures of the Dark, use Fire or Holy attack.
EG: fine

Angel’s body was suddenly glowing in blue light. a powerful source were surrounding her, she looks as if she were casting a powerful sorcery.

*EG, stay behind me*

EG: huh? was tat u, Angel?

*yes, stay behind me, quick*

EG did not hesitate. he quickly takes shelter behind Angel.

RAYS OF AVALONS!!!

A blinding light covers the whole manor in some tens seconds. EG was almost blinded by the strong light. stealing a glance after the light dismissed, he sees that those creatures were reducing painfully to dust.

Angel: There are more to come. prepare yourself.
EG: what have u done?
Angel: a powerful sorcery, it can takes multiple foes at once, but very source draining. u have fire spells right?
EG: yup. lots them.
Angel: good, here take this, I am not sure how many will come, you might need it later. *hands EG 5 bottles of Ether - replenish SP*
EG: ok, what about u?
Angel: dun worry about me. they'll have to engage me in sorcery battle more than 1 week to completely drain my SP.  
EG: WAT???
Angel: hehehe, *suddenly becomes serious* they are coming.
EG: kk

@ElderG: *thinking* ‘what was she ranting about her unlimited mana? Normally, it’s impossible to have so much mana, unless…*
Angel: Here they come!
ElderG: *Enhances Soul with fire element* this is for interrupting my sleep! *slices rapidly around the room*

While I divide the monsters around, Angel blasts them with her Holy spells. Occasionally, I let loose a Ray Divider to murder the ones just out of my sword reach but a little to close for comfort.

Angel: Ahh, I want more. If they were brave enough to wake me from my sleep they should at least put up a fight.
ElderG: Agreed.
*Bean rushes in (no 1 see Ariel, rite?)*
Bean: *looks around*… That was quick…
Angel: What did you think we were? And why is there an angel hovering around you?
Bean: *looks at Ariel, then back to Angel* you can see her?
ElderG: So can I.
Ariel: *no one hears except Bean* what are you doing wasting time!? DD’s in danger and we got to rescue him!
Bean *to Ariel* I know. *to Angel and ElderG* DD got himself into some trouble again. Let’s go.
ElderG: Lead the way. *everyone follows Bean*

@But as they made their way, suddenly Angel and Bean stopped...

EG: What's the matter?? We are going to save DD? Gets moving...
Angel: I sensed another Evil... Greater this time...
EG: What? What are you...

Before EG can finished his sentence, a huge fiery golem came upon them... All of them were thrown off due to the impact of the golem...

EG: What was that?!!
Angel: Ouch, you broke my nail , you great big bullock!! Eat this!! *casts a spell at the golem, but it simply bounces off it's body*
Angel: What the? My spell didn’t work?!! *tried again, but only managed to aggravate the golem more*
Bean: *picks himself up* Damn it! Stop Angel it won’t work on it!! Damn I was wondering where it has been hiding...
Angel and EG: What?! *evades another attack*
Bean: It is an Infernal. A golem from hell! It’s immune to ALL type of spells, including Holy magic! It is the real monster that was trapped in that circle...
EG: Then I strike him with my Soul.
Bean: It wouldn’t do! It is much too powerful... Listen you could see the angel right?!! *talks to Ariel* you lead them to DD's place. I take care of the Infernal... Go both of you!!
Angel: Damn, I'm the Grand Priestess!! I couldn’t be defeated by this overgrown golem!!
Bean: Well, you cant do nothing bout it!! Spell immunity remembers? Go!!!
I distract him.

And Bean began to channel his now-broken powers. "It's time to get this thing under control now" he thought. The black aura began to engulf his body... Angel and EG watched in disbelief...

Angel: Unholy powers? He's a minion of the dark?
Bean: *a staff began forming on his right hand* GO!!

And they were gone... The Infernal began to approach Bean, who now has a strange twisted smile on his face...

Bean: Well, my Infernal... Wonder where have you been... Who trapped you by the way? Is it another demon?

The Infernal suddenly knelt in front of Bean...

Bean: Well then, my Infernal... I'm not Necrid's puppet anymore you see... I don’t have the staff with me too, this is just an illusion... But good, you still remember who summoned you from the Underworld... You are still loyal to me aren’t you??

The Infernal continued to kneel in front of Bean...

Bean: This power was just unlocked from me by Necrid... He wishes me to be his puppet again... But no my Infernal, I want to be free... But I will need your help my Infernal, in defeating Necrid later... Will you help me?

The Infernal said nothing, just kneeling and bowing in front of Bean...

Bean: Good, now if I remember correctly, this will hurt me... Maybe kill me... A risk I’m willing to take!!

And Bean began absorb the Infernal flame into his body! After what was seemed forever, there is nothing left of the Infernal except the stones that made it... as Bean collapsed to the ground.

@Angel: EG, I sense darkness upon Bean, be very careful with him, and you too little angel *looks at Ariel*
EG: ... what do u mean?
Angel: I am not too sure yet... but please be very careful, I don't want to lose you.....
EG: .. huh?  lose me? .. I thought u hate me?
Angel: ah! cut it off la!! hey you!! little angel!!

*Ariel looks back as Angel call out for her*

Angel: make sure u protect DD when we battle later, this won't be easy rescue.

*Ariel nodded*

EG: hey! u still haven't answer me yet!
Angel: damn insensitive block, what's the point of explaining??
EG: what? me? insensitive? hey, you are the one who makes confusing statements!!
Angel: ...argh!! nevermind, u idiot!!
EG: GREAT! first I am a kid, then I am insensitive, now I am an idiot! thank you very much for your kind words!!!
Angel: ah, someone is going to cry  
EG: .... I am not eating your provocation!!

*Ariel watches them in amusement*

Ariel: haha! isn't it obvious, EG? she likes u  
*EG looks at her, wondering what she is trying to say*
Ariel: oh, I forgot!! u cannot hear me. sorry.

@Bean:... So dark, I can’t see...
: Bean... Are you ok?
Bean:... Huh, what? Ouch! Can’t move a muscle...
: Bean... Your path to redemption is not this way...
Bean:... What? Who is it? Show yourself!
: Do not let yourself be a puppet again...
Bean: What? Where are you?! Who the hell are you?!! Show yourself!!
: ...This is not how you redeem yourself...Bean
Bean: Just answer my goddamn question!!! I have enough of riddles!! Damn, I haven’t done that skill in a long time... Can’t move a thing...
: You know, who I am... Look for the answers... in your heart...
Bean: Goddamit, more riddles?!! I said, I... Wait a minute... I remember that voice... Is that you, Devanna?

Suddenly the darkness was filled with light, and Bean was at a garden so beautiful, it was out of this world... Bean found himself able move again, and he heard someone playing a harp... He went towards it, and after some walk, he approached a pavilion. On it, he saw her... The angel he had killed... Devanna... looking lovelier than ever...

Devanna: Well, you must be tired. Please, seat yourself, take a goblet, and drink, Dark Sorcerer...

Bean did as he was instructed, and as he about to open his mouth...

Devanna: You must have a lot of question. But first, I must tell you this... Karthok MUST NOT be killed. But time has been too unkindly for him, and since a new Dark Sorcerer has been found, it is only just that he also must pass on his torch to another...
Bean: He? Wait a minute. The old man told me that Karthok is a demon!
Devanna: He lied... Neither was he the creator of the staff too... The creators has long passed away... Karthok is a human, so as you.
Bean: But... The old man said
Devanna: The old man's tale was all fraud... now I will clarify to you what is the real story... Please have something...

Bean began to eat some of the unearthly fruit that was served, as Devanna began her story...

Devanna: This world is created with perfect balance. Both good and evil lived in perfect harmony I should say. The existence of both Dark Sorcerer and the Light Mage are only proof of this stability... But something tried to disrupt this balance, something that I didn’t know. And they have managed to do so by first killing Rygar, the Dark Sorcerer before you, and have taken the Black Staff into their hands... This has tipped the scale actually to the Light, and to counter it, demons ravaged these lands... Karthok, although distraught by these revelations, could do nothing about it, since his intervention would further escalate these unbalance...

But then you came, and you was able to wield the Black Staff, although not efficiently, but it seemed destiny chose you to be the new Dark Sorcerer...

Bean: Dark Sorcerer? What is that?
Devanna: A symbol of the Dark. But then you are under the control of Necrid, and the balance tipped back to the Dark... When you came to the city that I was assigned, I was given instruction, advised by Karthok, to free you from Necrid.
Bean: You did that... with a price...
Devanna: A price I'm willing to pay anytime! But Karthok sensed something, someone tried to destabilized these conditions... But he couldn’t do anything, unless you were there with him, with the Black Staff, with no strings attached...
Bean: So now, I need to get back that Staff... And go find Karthok... And rally with him or something?
Devanna: The Wheel of Destiny turns as it will, your first and major task would be getting the Staff...
Bean: But didn’t that mean I would be a puppet of Destiny too?
Devanna just smiled her angelic smile... and said

Devanna: Maybe, but this puppeteer is not the same as the others... This puppeteer would not exploit you for its own good, in fact it is for this world's good
Bean: And what will happen if I broke that strings from me
Devanna: Than, Dark Sorcerer, this world would be in utter chaos and ultimately, destroyed...

@Somewhere in the manor, DD and a kid was staring at each other.
DD : Where is this?
Kid : Why bother? you talk a lot don’t you? *Starts throwing pitchers of potions, seals and chanting spells. DD raises his weapons to block the projectiles but gets drenched by the liquids in the pitchers* How do you like that? *DD looks around, confused.  *
DD : If I wanted to get wet I'd go take a shower in the rain outside.  *Now the kid gets confused too. He brandishes a sword, with a black jewel glowing in the middle of it. He then starts slashing DD. DD was caught by surprise, but then the blade passed right through his body, leaving no marks whatsoever*
DD and the kid :  
Kid : Your just a normal human aren't you? *Talks to himself : "Darn, never knew a Watcher would merge with an ordinary being. Pathetic. Now all my stuff won’t work against him! hmm... have to change the characteristics of my blade to fight mortals" He then powers down the jewel, returns them both to the physical world and starts attacking DD again. DD, fully prepared, fights defensively due to the lack of combat experience. He was dodging and occasionally diverting blows from the kid when he couldn’t dodge in time. The kid, pumped with adrenalin starts getting cocky.* Hey, melee combat ain’t that hard after all. Why did Necrid send monsters to get this job done in the first place? hah, he should have never sent boys to do a man's job.
DD : Necrid eh? And just who's looking like a boy right now? *The kid gets agitated and aggressively attacks DD. After a few blows, DD blocks a blow with his left hand and delivers a hard blow to the jewel with his right hand. Instead of shattering the jewel, it drops out of the sword.* Well, it didn’t go as planned, but at least the result is the same. My guess was right! The jewel is your weapon's weakness! *sees the kid's blade slowly vanish into thin air*
Kid : Cr*p! *DD gives the kid a wry smile, then starts raining blows on him without using the sharp ends of his weapon. The kid screams in pain. Necrid appears beside the kid and takes him into his arms*
Necrid : That's enough. I should have known better than to let a inexperienced rookie handle tasks like this. *Looks at DD* so, my precious little Ariel ain’t here? Wont waste my energy here. Consider yourself lucky. Till we meet again, the next meeting might not be so pleasing so enjoy while you can. *Both disappears into thin air. DD, exhausted, gropes around in the darkness and accidentaly distorting the pattern of the Circle. The circle's magical function slowly dissipates, slowly closing the gateway to the darkness at the same time. He also picks up the jewel he dislodged from the kid's weapon. Seing it giving off a strong glow, he puts it into the hole of his left cross. It was a perfect fit, but he sensed the structure of the cross was different and the jewel didnt glow as brightly as before. With the aid of the soft glow, he stumbled into another room where there was a lot of people. Apparently, a cult was living there, feeding the darkness with sacrifices in order for them to join the ranks of the immortal underworld or ask for favours. A few men approached DD, and started worshipping him as they mistook him for a messenger from the dark side. They then offered sacrifices of some people there to him. The normally calm DD stood there for some time, the expression on his face changed, then raised his left cross and stabbed them all, killing them instantly. The accomplices who witnessed that tried to flee, but DD caught them and slaughtered them all.*
DD : *With an expressionless face* Hmph! Irratating! *licks off some blood that stains his left cross. Then, the cries of the would be sacrifices filled the air. DD looks at them, and exclaims : "Noisy". He walks over and raises his cross once again, ready to leave none standing. Before he threw a blow, he shakes his head for a while and hesitates. The people held their breath and trembled with fear, being at the mercy of someone who had just saved them but may be sending them to the grave too. After some time, he raised his cross again and has a look of death in his eyes.*

Somewhere else in the underworld, Necrid is lecturing the rookie.
Necrid : well well, what do we have here? *takes out an inventory of items borrowed by the kid as he headed into battle* Cursed liquid, sealing talismans, book of dark magic..........A STONE OF BLIGHT???!!!!
Kid : Erm....sir...... I was prepared to fight a holy being so you should understand right? *Necrid looks at the kid, then raises his arm and pins the kid by the neck to a wall*
Necrid : Do you know what you've done? Do you have the stone with you now?! *The kid frantically searches his belongings but came up empty* If that stone reaches the hands of the researchers of the enemy, we will NEVER be able to fight them on even terms! *tightens his grip, choking the kid. A spirit then shows up beside Necrid, whispering into his ear some news before disappearing. Necrid continues lecturing the kid, before he got a brainstorm and gave a wry smile*
Necrid : How quick could the situation change into our favour.... I should be giving you a promotion instead now... A job that doesn’t involve direct execution of orders cause the next mistake you make may cost us dearly....  *lets the kid down and tells him off*
The kid : Thank you sir.... I don’t want anything to do with the direct execution of orders anymore. Physical combat is hell. *leaves Necrid*
Necrid :  *laughing* my my how the wheels of destiny continue to throw surprises at us. *continues laughing*

@They talked for some more after that exchange. Bean began to understand more of his tasks as a Dark Sorcerer, but still he didn’t know what will happens next when he regained the Black Staff back

Devanna: Well... I think it is almost your time to go...
Bean: So soon... I wished it would be longer...
Devanna: A request, Dark Sorcerer. Should you meet the new Light Mage, I want to give the angel necklace to the new Light Mage...
Bean: Ok... I promise...
Devanna: Farewell, Dark Sorcerer...


Meanwhile, on an unknown place, Karthok gazed out of his study on top of his Tower...

Karthok: Well then, looks like Destiny began to turn... Will it crumble? Or will it stand?? *sigh* no matter... I must do it now, the time is at hand...
Karthok: (whispers to the wind) Devanna, come to me in my study. I need you know like I never need you before...

In the jungle, somewhere in the southern region, a young maiden, who were bathing in clear water near her village, suddenly stopped, and watched the sky.

Devanna: Well, looks like father had called me... Wonder what is it for...

[Angel]

@Ariel: Their there!! *points at the door*
*we rushed into the room*
Angel: Rescue incoming… *pauses and looks at the massacred people* what happened here?
ElderG: Guess we are about to find out… *Looks seriously at the figure standing in the middle of the room holding a would be sacrifice victim by his hair*

the pour guy was rambling something incoherent, probably religious words. However, none of this got to the ears of DD as he raised his tonfa and brought it down in a deadly arc.

DD: Quite scum! *body falls to the ground one head short, followed by the severed skull.*

DD turns to us and his face leaves the shadow that was cast upon him. He was expressionless, even after killing the guy. His eyes were narrow and held a lingering sight of death within them.

Ariel: *Tries to approach DD but falls back* ‘what is this aura around him? DD doesn’t posses this kind of energy?’
ElderG: Something isn’t right here. Angel, any idea?
Angel: Feels familiar… but I can’t place it…

DD: Silence! *Launches himself towards Angel.*

I moved instinctively between them as soon as DD moved. Funny, but by the time I regain awareness my body had already moved. Wasting no time, I parried DD’s attacks in quick succession.

Angel: Move away Elder! *I did just that* SEAL EVIL!! *White ropes burst out from the ground and hold DD in place, but within seconds the spell fizzles and the ropes disappear.*
ElderG: ‘Not good.’ AIR TRUST!! *DD is launched across the room and leaves a lasting impression on the opposite wall.*

I turned to Angel, who was breathing irregularly and had crumpled to her knees. I probed the surroundings with my senses and uncovered the cause; cursed grounds. I was so bend of the rescue that I had forgotten a basic rule of combat; know the land.

ElderG: Angel, your magic doesn’t work here. *I passed her the potions she had earlier felt in my possession.* ‘She’s reacting badly. Better get her out of here.’ *I carried her out of the room.*
Angel: Hey! What are you doing!? *Punches me in the face.*

Her voice sounded week, but I felt glad that she still had the strength to give me that blow. Wait, why am I thinking like that? Now that’s strange…

ElderG: *Outside* don’t push yourself. I’ll handle things from here on. *Turns to see DD getting up. I cursed to myself.*
Angel: Wait. It’s… the stone… of blight. It’s enhancing… the negative thoughts… within DD. That’s why… he has that aura… and is acting that… way.
ElderG: I see. Well, that settles it. But Angel, didn’t I tell you not to strain yourself…
Angel: *interrupting* But you… can’t defeat DD… not the way… he is now…
ElderG: *I put a finger to her lips.* that’s enough. And don’t worry. I’ll be back with DD in tow.

She smiled and my stomach did something funny. But this wasn’t time to get a stomachache as I rushed in and meet DD head on. I figured that at best, DD could hold against me for about 30 seconds, but the DD now was a whole new person. I found myself being attacked from all directions as soon as we clashed and wasn’t interested to drag this battle any longer then necessary. With a well-placed slash, DD was sent a few meters back. He had blocked the attack but that was my intention all along. Bringing Silent Iris to full view, I channeled my thought and the jewel glowed pitch black.

DD: What is that… ARGG!!! *He starts to spasm and drops his weapons.*
ElderG ‘NOW!’ *I nailed the stone on the cross dead center with Soul and the stone shattered into pieces smaller then grains of sand.* Great… he’s out cold. *picks DD up and walks out of the room. The remaining would be sacrifices scrambled to get out of the place*

Ariel was there waiting. Her actions were that of a concerned mother… or were it more like a customer making sure her goods wasn’t damaged? I didn’t give it a thought more, but when we made eye contact after a came out with DD, here eyes were surprisingly cold and it felt like she was probing me. But I let it pass. I left DD to Ariel and went to Angel.

ElderG: How you holding up?
Angel: Not good… my spell backfired and now I’m this… I can’t even get up… damn, I hate feeling so week…
ElderG: Get some sleep. That would help. *Looks around* we better get moving. Who knows what else lurks within these walls. *Picks Angel up again.*
Angel: Hey! You want another punch to the face!?
ElderG: No, but we need to get out of here and you can’t even stand. I could always levitate you, but that’s a waste of energy. Besides, we’ll move faster this way.
Angel: *whisper* you could have just said because you wanted too…
ElderG: Huh? What was that?

We were interrupted by DD, or should I say Ariel; DD was after all out cold, thanks to me.

DD/Ariel: Before we go, would you like to explain that? *he/she pointed to Silent Iris.*
ElderG: What’s there to explain?
DD/Ariel: Like the fact that you used it to try to take over DD’s mind? Although influenced, his memory is still there.

Angel looked startled for a second but I kept my cool. No use pouring oil over this fire.

ElderG: Yes, I did and it gave me an opening. What’s the problem with that?
DD/Ariel: The fact that the skill you used was a strictly dark skill exclusive only to elite demons and other hellish beings of similar rank. Who and what are you!?
ElderG: Just an average Keeper. It comes with the job.

I could tell there were now 2 confused individuals around; 1 by the revelation and 1 by my answer. I don’t know how Angel took it but Ariel was fast to recover.

DD/Ariel: I’m watching you Elder… sooner or later, I’ll know the truth.
ElderG: Fine fine, but you’ll be disappointed…

by the time we came upon Bean’s body, Angel had fallen into a deep sleep. The rain had long cried herself out and the moon was visible through the clearing in the clouds. It wasn’t more then a few hours to dawn, so I figured that we had better get a move. I left the still unconscious Bean to Ariel and we made our way to Femara. The rest of the night was chilly as we glided through the night sky. Ariel was keeping Femara in place, so I relaxed and dosed of into sleep…
<Continue from here ^^>

~*~

@Ariel flew Femara to a hidden cave at a nearby forest. The cave was half way up the mountain. There, they took shelter for the rest of the night after the tiring battle.

It was almost 10 in the morning when Angel finally woke up.

EG: hey, good morning. how are you doing? good?
Angel: ARGH!!!!!

Angel woke up and found herself lying on right next to ElderG. ElderG was watching her when she woke up, and that scared her of her skin.

EG: hey, cool down. u ok?
Angel: ...... nothing .... u.... I am just surprised...
EG: ^V^ hahaha. So, u feeling better?
Angel: *getting up* Ya, I fine. *looks around* Where are we?
EG: A cave. I dun really know this place though. This mountain is right in a forest. it was dark last night, so I didn't get a clear view.
Angel: ooo.... where is the rest?
EG: Outside, eating. It's 10 already.
Angel: I see, why aren't you eating with them?
EG: Looking after you. What do you think I am doing?
Angel: ........ you don't have to, I am not a child, you know..
EG: ... oh well, I am going out to eat then, there *points at a water container, toothbrush & toothpaste* wash your face. What do you want to eat? Bacon? Bread?
Angel: ... anything
EG: Bacon then, taste better.

With that ElderG walk out of the cave.

EG: *why is she so cold towards me after what happened last night? GARHHH!!! I am so confused!! What am I thinking??? Why do I even care about the way she treat me? What's happening to me?? ARGH!!*

Bean and DD, or was it Ariel? were still eating... next to Femara who is also busy eating. Bean noticed ElderG,

Bean: Hey, is your lady up yet?
EG: Yeah... just woke up. Pass me those bacon.
Bean: *tossed ElderG the pack of bacon* so, is she ok?
EG: Yup.. *starting ripping off the plastic bag* she is fine. Completely heal. Normal Priestess might take a few days to regain their health from that backfired spell. Wonder how she could be so tough..
DD: She is not a human. I can sense that.
EG: You are still Ariel?
Ariel: Yes, he is still out cold. I don't think he'll be able to regain health for the next month.
EG: That serious?
Ariel: Yes... he is just a normal guy, u know =.=
EG: ... sorry, but I haven't got much choice. That's the only thing I can do to stop him, plus he ......
Ariel: He what?
EG: He .....

Angel emerges from inside of the cage, looking fresh and cheerful. She sat down next to ElderG, looking at him,

Angel: So? Where's my breakfast?
EG: ... still roasting.. *points at the bacon he is cooking on the fire*
Angel: ooo, can you dip some honey to it?
EG: .... *took out the jar of honey from the bags and pour some on the bacon, and continue cooking it*
Angel: thanks ^V^
Bean: ... err, EG... u sure she is okay?
EG: huh? You're talking to me?
Bean: ..... nevermind.... So, Miss Angel, doing ok?
Angel: Yeah.
Ariel: How can you regain your health completely after a few hours? That spell was so advanced.
Angel: never you mind!! It's none of your business. *looks at her bacon eagerly* is it done yet?
EG: almost..
Bean: What's wrong? You're acting really weird, ElderG  
Angel: huh? Hey, u ok, El? You are not sick, are you?
EG: No, I am fine. What did you just call me?
Angel: El, why?
Bean: El, huh? Sounded like a little lady calling her sweet little lover  

*SMACK*

Angel: You really want to die, aren't you?  
Bean: HAHAHAHA!!! But, you are blushing, you know, and so is he too *points at ElderG*
Ariel: *smiles*  
Angel: NO, I am NOT!!  *SMACK*
Bean: Oh well, go ahead and denied it, I couldn't care less, but he is *points at ElderG again* ya? EL??  
EG: ........ here, your bacon, it is done ....  
Angel: .... *took the bacon* thanks.... *started walking away*
Bean: MUAHAHHAAHHAHAHHHAAZHAHHA!!! You two are so funny!! What are you ashamed of?
EG: ... Cut it off, will ya?
Ariel: oooo, protecting your dear Angel already?
EG: .... Cut it!!
Bean: nahhh, let them be, let's go for a strawl Ariel, let them enjoy themselves together.  *levitates himself, ready to fly*
Ariel: Sure, sure *took off with Bean*
EG: ..... El? hem... *smiles*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@After leaving the cave for a while , Ariel realized she's still worried about DD's condition so she decided to return to check on DD's condition. In a corner of the cave, DD, still sleeping, feels an itch on his left hand and scratches it. The itch went away for a while and he continued sleeping. In his dreams, he dreamt bout his childhood, painful memories of the days gone by. Being teased and abused by others without being able to fight back, he sat in a corner, crying. Then, a shadow appeared in his dream and asked him a question.
Shadow : They're annoying, aren’t they?
DD : *full with tears* yes... nobody likes me....
Shadow : I can make them go away.... Do you want me to?  
DD : (without thinking) Yes.....
Shadow : Come, give me your left hand...... (DD raises his hand to the shadow. The shadow deposits something into his hand.) Come on young one, you wanted to get rid of them, now you can. *the shadow disappears*
( A bully comes over to bully DD. As he raised his hand to protect himself, the bully's hand that came into contact with his left hand started to decompose. The bully started screaming, attracting a crowd. The crowd started to beat DD, but those who touched his left hand started to die and decompose rapidly. noticing that, they exclaimed : "This... This demon child! Run!! " and ran away. DD, looking somewhat pleased, took a look at his left hand and grinned. He told himself : "No one shall ever mistreat me again...". Suddenly, his hand started to decompose too in front of his eyes and he gets so freaked out he wakes up in a pool of sweat. )
Ariel : Thank god you’re alright DD. Is something wrong? You've seem to have had a nightmare.
DD : ......yeah... a nightmare..... I guess.....
Ariel : Care to tell me?
DD : ..ok... I've always had this dream, a dream bout my childhood. being an orphan, I was always picked on but never fought back.... But today, in my dreams, it changed. I had the power to decide who lives or dies... It felt strange, but I felt pleased taking those people out....
(Ariel looks at DD for a while, then tells him it may have been his long time desire for he might have wanted changes after being abused for so long. But, Ariel was a little worried about the dream)
DD : Oh yeah, what happened back there? I remember defeating a kid, then groping around the darkness till I met some weird people. After that, my mind blacked out.
Ariel : Oh...erm...... we found you on the floor back there. You must have been pretty exhausted from your fight. We carried you out of there so that you didn’t disturb the people there. (Ariel is being wary about telling DD what did he actually do back there. Ariel thought to herself : Since even he doesn’t remember what happened back there, I guess it wasn’t his fault then. He would be better off not knowing what he did back then since we already got him out of the grip of the dark stone. Who knows how he'd handle the fact that he massacred a number of people?)
DD : Is that so......... I'm thirsty... *tries to stand up but couldn’t. still to weak*
Ariel : I'll get it. Rest while you can ok? (goes off to get the help of the others since she cant hold physical objects. As she leaves, DD's left hand itches again. As he took a look at his hand, his jaw dropped. Since he didn’t have his gloves on, he could see the bare flesh of his hand, or rather, bones as his hand is partially decomposing. Rubbing his eyes with his right hand, he notices he wasn’t dreaming. Freaking out, he wrapped his left hand with some cloth and put on his glove, not wanting to look at it anymore. He tried moving the left hand, and it did respond, indicating it is HIS left hand. Touching it with his right hand, he could feel the outline of the skeleton frame. Too scared to do anything, he consoled himself : "This must be the work of that kid. His spells might have affected me somehow. " Not wanting to worry the others, he decided to find a way to deal with it, thinking that since he still has the use of his left hand and suffering no ill effects whatsoever, it should be alright for now. Next time when Necrid comes by only will he ask the others for help. Ariel gets ElderG to pass some water to DD and DD, after looking at his left hand for some time, used his left hand to get the water.)
After drinking some water, he told ElderG.
DD : Damn my back hurts... (whacks ElderG lightly with his right hand)
ElderG : Why did you do that?
DD : I don’t know... Just felt like you're the one to blame for my aching back.
ElderG : That's because I hit......(remembers Ariel's plea not to tell DD the truth).... You don’t remember? (DD shakes his head)

@As they flown off, bean still chuckling over the stuff that just happens...

Bean: EL?!! I'm having a heart attack
Ariel: Cut it out will you, they were made for each other *smiles*
Bean: But still EL?!! oh well, cant really understands love muahaha... it will be interesting to watch though muahaha...

Suddenly Bean faces turns serious...

Bean: Let's land for awhile...
Bean (after landed): so is DD's ok?
Ariel: I think so...
Bean: You're keeping secrets from me...
Ariel: I told you, he's fine!
Bean *watches Ariel intently* : Wokeh your secret, your choice...
Ariel: How about you, are you ok?
Bean: Yep, nasty little fight though...
Ariel: What happens to the Infernal, when we get you we saw nothing, excepts big pile of stones in front of you...
Bean: Well... You see *Ariel listened intently* my secret, my choice...
Ariel: Fine then... Better watch out, this company is more than meets the eye... I better go check DD... *flown off, insert DD post here*

Bean: Oh yeah, more than meets the eye... How very true, how very true... *began to release his powers, the dark aura covered him*
Bean: I need to learn to control this first, and my magic’s, they are all coming back to my... well then let's start... *began to train...*

Meanwhile...

Devanna reached the tower of his father's study at nightfall. She has sneaked into the town, to avoid being noticed... If the people of that town knew that the Light Mage's daughter is here, then the celebration would be endless...

Devanna: Father, I am here to serve you...
Karthok: *from somewhere* come my child... come inside

Devanna stepped into the tower, wondering what is going on...

@Angel walks towards the big rock by the cliff end and sat there, eating her bacon.

*....what is wrong with me? all this sudden changes with my attitude towards ElderG.... but I cannot control it at all.... why am I acting stupid in front of him? this is really bad.... I am not suppose to lose control, and I still have tones of tasks to do, .... including ..... and I actually called him El? how can I? what am I doing??? garh!! but all those different feeling I had towards him lately, am I really having feeling for him? I.....*

While she is still eating her bacon, she hears footstep from behind... it was slow, but Angel was pretty sure it was approaching her...

Angel: *Is that him?*

[Angel]

@As Bean continued to train, he felt like someone was watching him, some one that he knew for a while now...

Bean: Come out, old man! I know you are here!!!
Old man: (from somewhere) Hmm, you can detect me finally, but can you find me?
Bean: Damn it, old man!! Why are you feeding me lies goddamit? Why you tell me, that Karthok created that Staff...
Old man:(stunned silence, then...) What?!! How did you??
Bean: Surprise, old man?? Then tell me WHY?!!
Old man: Well, I don’t know when and where you have found out... But I’m not telling you...
Bean: (laughs an evil laugh) Oh you will tell me old man... You will... You ask me a question right? whether I could find you... well, will this answer your question?

Suddenly Bean's aura went to a specific place and gathered the old man in its aura, while making a staff in its right hand...

Old man: Pretty impressive... But without the Staff YOU ARE NOTHING!!!

The old man broke free and launches its attack

"FIRE PILLAR!!"

Bean moved out of the way and started casting... "BONE PRISON!!" Sharp bones came out from the ground surrounding the old man but he seemed undisturbed by this... "IS THIS THE BEST YOU GOT?!! FIRE NOVA!!" flames came out of the old man's side destroying the bones, but Bean was nowhere to be seen... Then he felt a chill on his right side, he turned but it was too late as the spell had hit him..."FROST PRISON'

The old man was frozen in an ice cage... Bean, panting, walk slowly towards him...

Bean:(panting) Damn it, gotten weaker... but no matter I got you now... now TELL ME!!!
The old man gave no hint of telling....
Bean: No? Then what about this then... You are Light servant right? DARK DESPAIR!

Darkness began to surround the ice cage, but then just as suddenly a flash of light appears, and shatters the cage... Bean looked to see who's coming and see another angel coming towards him...

: Hello Bean... My name is Regina, Angel of Lost Souls...

@Back at the cave, the resulting smoke from Bean's battle caught their eyes and they all head out towards that direction guided by Ariel who was following Bean some time ago. DD who was still rather unfit was left behind to take care of the camp. After they left for some time, DD heard someone calling his name from the entrance of the cave. He stood up, barely able to maintain his balance and walked slowly to the entrance. Outside, a small kid stood there. He asked the kid who was he and what was he doing calling out his name. The kid slowly turned his head towards DD, but did not reply. DD asked again, and the kid walked over to him, not saying a word. Feeling something wasn’t right, DD backed away slowly. With every step he took, the kid advanced faster. Only when they were both within an arms length did the kid pull out a dagger and attempted to stab DD. DD countered, grabbing the dagger and disarming the kid easily as he lost his balance. The kid then proceeded to strangle DD, but DD was able to power out of the grip after a struggle. Reaching for his cross nearby, he fended off the kid's attacks without much of a hassle, given his advantage in size. After reaching his cross, he knocked the kid at the back of the head, knocking out the kid. As he attended to the kid, trying to find out what was happening, another voice from outside the cave called for him. Outside again, a woman was seen sitting on a branch, helping herself to a fruit from the tree.
DD : Who are you? Why do you call for me?
: Good day~! You can just call me Ember. I'm here under orders of Necrid. *smiles as she takes another bite of the fruit*
DD : Necrid? What does he want now?
Ember : Necrid.... I don’t know. He only told me to "feed" the one who holds the stone of blight. Only thing is, I don’t feel the presence of the stone here. I could've been wrong, but since I got the right person, it's not my fault. And I must say, you are good looking. Maybe we could meet up next time.  
DD : Stone of blight? What is that?
Ember : You'll find out eventually. For now, we'll both have some entertainment. *waves her hand*
( A mob of people came out from the bushes, armed with everyday items such as hoes, machetes, daggers etc. )
DD : A peasant army? What the hell is going on? *Picks up another side of his cross and braces for a fight*
Ember : How should I say this? Necrid told me to feed you with human lives. So have fun~! Gambatte~ *Signals a "go ahead" sign to the mob*
DD : WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU TALKING ABOUT??!!
(DD starts fighting the mob. After fighting off a few men, he found himself slowly being surrounded. Smart thinking told him to fight at the mouth of the cave as he could back down if needed and he duly took up his position there, trying to catch his breath in the meanwhile. After taking down another few people without much of a hassle, Ember spoke)
Ember : Is there anything wrong? Why do you hesitate? Are they not to your liking? Maybe we could visit another town after your done here?
DD : THIS AINT FUNNY ANYMORE! I DONT GET A THING YOUR TALKING ABOUT!
( Takes another few people down and stops, waiting for the others to make their moves first. Those that were taken out earlier on slowly rose to fight again since DD only knocked them out with blows to some critical points. What he doesn’t realize is, the kid he fought earlier on already regained consciousness and was approaching him from behind with a dagger. When he realized it, it was already too late. He couldn’t dodge in time and took a slash to his back, lucky not taking a hard hit. Swiping off the kid, the sight of blood on his hands shocked DD. He turned expressionless again, just like in the manor some time ago. Then, he held his crosses close to himself. Instead of taking a defensive stance, he lunged forward. His tiredness and his injuries didn’t seem to bother him anymore, and he took the whole mob down. His crosses took on a crimson hue after all the bashing)
Ember : Yaay~ I see your finally done with it but I didn’t expect you to take so long since you have the stone of blight, or don’t you? *examines DD from on top of the branch. Not seeing the stone anywhere, she remembers Necrid's order to kill DD if he didn’t have the stone.* Oh boy.... I heard you don’t fight.... And yet you were able to take on so many people without the stone...... Maybe I can have some fun too. *tosses the seed of the fruit she ate at DD and unfurls her double edge axe that she brought along*
A duel ensues. Both sides attacked, with DD doing more dodging than Ember. After an initial few blows, Ember spoke.
Ember : Hmm.... interesting..... Shouldn’t have wasted my energy controlling those villagers to attack you.... Ah, it doesn’t matter, they're life was meaningless anyway. Hopefully you’re still up for a real fight after having fun disposing of them.
*DD somehow took in the words, and a slight look of anger started to show on his face. He then dashed forward quickly, aiming a few quick strikes at some critical points on Ember. Blocking the attacks, Ember launched a fireball at DD. DD, caught unaware of his opponent's hidden ability, took a slight roasting from the fireball*
Ember : Now you know why they call me Ember?  
DD dusts off some burnt parts of his clothes, then comes at Ember again. His planned strike towards Ember's hand with his right hand was stopped when Ember turned her hand around and grabbed the incoming cross. She then proceeded to melt the cross. With no other option, DD let go of the cross and resumed battle with only 1 cross. Ember let off a strong horizontal blow aimed at DD's ribs which DD blocked using his only cross. The force of the blow resulted in trails being imprinted on the sandy floor due to DD's dragged feet. A few blows later, DD is exhausted, not wanting to attack as he fears the battle would be over once his other cross turned to liquid too. Ember senses DD's tiredness and bombards him with fireballs instead of attacking him directly. Dodging the fireballs, he accidentally lands in a muddy hole. Another incoming fireball soon threatened DD's existence and DD instinctively threw his remaining cross at the fireball as he was unable to get his foot out of the hole. The fireball exploded upon contact with the cross, and DD was left wide open to attacks without any weapons to defend himself.
Ember : This looks like the end my friend.. It was nice meeting someone as good looking as you but orders are orders. I'm sorry it has to end this way. I had fun, but since you can’t carry on, this wont hurt a bit. *Her axe is ignited, with flames emanating from the cutting edges of her axe. She them proceeds with a vertical slash with the aim of splitting DD into halves. DD raises his hands to slightly above his head to protect himself , not ready to accept his fate quietly. As Ember's slash came down, DD's left hand took the full blow of the slash. The fire burned away the layers of cloth DD used to wrap his hand.*
Ember : *talks to herself* what the? He stopped my axe with his bare hands? His hands should have been reduced to ash by holding my hellfire axe! How did he do that? *Ember notices DD's left hand which was fully exposed as the axe burned all the cloth covering his left hand.* A skeletal hand? Don’t tell me... The Reaper's Hand?!
DD grabs Ember with his right hand and has a stranglehold on her from behind whereas the tip of the finger beside his left thumb started to glow with dark energy. He then slowly moves his left hand towards Ember's head. Ember was mumbling something before she starts screaming when DD touched her as she starts to rot away till nothing else is left of her. DD looks at his left hand, and a grin slowly shows on his face. Moments later, he came back to his senses, unaware of what he has done and promptly wraps his hand up again upon seeing it's ugly look. After picking up the cross he threw that was lying nearby, he slowly proceeded back to the cave. Below the tree where Ember was sitting on moments ago was another cross-fashioned from actual bones, with the tag "To DD, the holder of the stone of blight, a weapon more sturdy and convenient" that was signed by Necrid. Seeing he was one cross short, he picked the cross up too. He then and notices the bodies of the villagers that he took down earlier on. Shocked at seeing so much bodies and blood around, he sits in a corner in the cave, trembling with fear and confusion.
_____________________________________________

somewhere else, Necrid was seen listening to a shadow that retold the battle between DD and Ember.
Necrid : Interesting... He has the Reaper's Hand even after losing the stone of blight. Even Ember had difficulties facing him.... Hopefully he likes my gift.  

@Keel was napping peacefully and blissfully on his reclined throne. His face was so peaceful it seemed that nothing short of the end of the world would wake him up. Luckily, it didn’t take that much for his eyes to fly wide open, jump out of the rock chair and stride down the hall to the exit. Towards the end, Xrnon was playing with a blue flame in his palm, changing the shape and intensity of the fire in a bored manner. But that was before Keel stopped behind him.

Keel: *impatient tone* Get up. Let’s go.
Xrnon: Where to?
Keel: *irritated tone* Regina. She made contact. Damn! What was she thinking?! *disappears along with Xrnon*

~*~

ElderG: Angel, what are you doing here?
Angel: *blushing* Uh… enjoying the view and… uh… *looks at her food* my breakfast. How about you?
ElderG: *sits* about the same. No use holding the fort if a dragon is there doing it for you…
…………………silence…………………
EG & Angel: *at the same time* the breeze’s cold right?
…………Starts laughing
ElderG: *smiling* we finally agreed on something. Didn’t take long, did it?
Angel: *smiling* Long? We only met 4 days ago. *we start laughing*

Angel stopped laughing suddenly and turned to the back, her smile fading.

Angel: *muttered* Party pooper…
ElderG: What is it?
Angel: That aura… the same one I felt backs then… its back. *getting up* Bean’s up to something. We better go check it up.
ElderG: *gets up too* I don’t really care but if you’re going, you’re not going alone.

We ran back to the cave where we met Ariel out of DD's body. From what I could tell, DD was still weakened, so Ariel had decided to leave him behind. we then made our way, lead be Ariel.

~*~

Ariel: *still with DD* Huh? What is this... darkness... I’ve felt this before... wait... another one... I... know this...
*Leaves DD and meets up with ElderG and Angel*
Ariel: No doubt... it is her... Regina... the exiled one...

~*~

Old man: Regina!? What are you doing here exiled one!?
Regina: Saving you.
Bean: Exiled one? This is interesting… get out of the way. I have business with him.
Regina: I’m sorry, but I can’t allow it.
Bean: *aura widening* I never did ask you permission to ALLOW anything. Move.

Regina stood her ground and so Bean made his move.

Bean: *Darkness surrounds Regina* DARK DISPAIR!!

Before the spell could be completed, another force forcefully dispelled the dark energy away. Before Regina were two new figures; Keel and Xrnon. The old man, upon sighting Keel, his eyes went wide; very wide. His wasn’t the only pair. I, Angel and Ariel had arrived about around the time Keel appeared.

Ariel: That’s... Keel Impreda! And he's shielding Regina! What's going on here!?
*nobody can listen*
ElderG: *clenches teeth* Damn… What's Keel doing here?
Angel: *looks at ElderG* That's Keel Impreda!? And you’ve met him! What more are you hiding from me!?
ElderG: The fact one city is missing from the map because he wanted to make a point.

Now their eyes were as wide as they can get. Bean, deeply engrossed with the new interferes, didn’t catch me words.

Bean: Great, more fools getting it my way! If you don’t want to be destroyed, move!
*ignore*
Xrnon: What are you doing Gina? One big mess, I can tell.
Regina: I can’t let him hurt one of my own. I just… acted.
Keel: And that’s the kind of attachment you were supposed to have abandoned when you joined my ranks. *turns to the old man* don’t try anything.
Bean: *Vein popping out* Why you… MOVE!! *releases his aura towards Keel*

Now I had to blink not twice, but TEN times before I would believe what I saw. As Bean visible aura approached Keel, an invisible barrier, erected perfectly vertical to Keel, stopped it. I knew instantly what it was; a Soul Edge. But its power… it’s like nothing I had ever felt. And that was nothing, as I learned later.

Keel: *Turn’s to Bean and speaks politely* On behalf of my subordinate, I would like to apologies…
Bean: *ignores Keel’s apology* DARK DISPAIR!! *darkness surrounds Keel, but dissipates when it comes in contact with Keel’s Soul Edge*
Keel: *sweatdrop* Uh… Bean… we are not interfering, you know. We will leave soon…
Bean: *ignores again* TWILIGHT BLADES!! *crescent blades made of Bean’s dark aura shoots out towards Keel but is once again stopped by his Soul Edge.*
Keel: *still smiling and talking politely* Uh… that would be enough… *Bean continues his attack*

The first to see the signs were the Old man along with Regina and Xrnon. Their reaction was weird though; they tried to calm Keel down. Then I caught their drift; Keel was about to exploded with a force I wouldn’t want to witness. Sadly, my later wish was impossible.

Keel: *face changes, from his usual cheerful appearance to and angry one* ENOUGH!!

The effect was absolute… absolute horror, that is. My mind was awash with visions of my death, 50 different versions and all caused by Keel. I was sure Bean had seen more and worst as he was the target of this; we were just in the background. Another advantage of being in the background; as the ground Keel and Bean were on was elevated, we were lucky to have our heads on. Bean’s aura vanished as soon as Keel unleashed his wrath upon him but that wasn’t all; his Soul Edge was horizontal just above Bean’s head, expended across the mountain. Keel then formed a powerful fireball on his palm and launched it to the rock wall behind Bean and above his Soul Edge.

The effect was a boom, but we wouldn’t remember that. No, we were more amazed –or petrified- by what the boom DID. To put it bluntly, the Soul Edge cuts ANYTHING PERFECTLY and so half a mountain sliding off didn’t seem impossible. Our eyes and heads follow the mountain –which amazingly, moved silently- until it came crashing down on the forest below with an earthquake accompanying it. Bean didn’t notice thought. His eyes were as wide as ceramic plates and his pupils were so tiny they look like dots over the whites. Before him was a terror that would make terror itself wet its pants.

Keel: *hand shoots out and pins Bean to the rock wall –or what’s left of it- by his neck* Look what you made me do!! You just couldn’t listen, could you!? Now he knows *heads jerks up*, and he knows *head jerks down* and she knows!! What are you going to do about it, huh!? Answer me!! WHAT. ARE. YOU. GOING. TO. DO. ABOUT. IT!!??

Receiving no answer from the petrified Bean, Keel release’s his grip and walks towards the silent Angel-Demon pair. Before he left, he look’s at the mountain's top, which rests on its side and decides it had to go. And it did, with three Grand End spells. All that in 13 minutes…

~*~

Devanna: *alarmed* Father! Bean has come into contact with it!!
Karthok:… Don’t worry my child. It knows its role and it will sooner destroy itself then forget that.

~*~

Necrid: *trembling* It... appeared... this can't be a good sign... Damn! Now I must move carefully... least I make a mistake and unleash its wrath...

@and with that Keel and his pair of Angel-Devil disappeared as sudden as they just appeared.

Furious and feeling betrayed, Angel stared at ElderG with her pair of fiery red eyes, demanding explanation from him.

Angel: you want to tell me something, ELDERG???
EG: ..... look, I am sorry that I hide it from you, but I do have my own reasons for doing so. and I am afraid I won't be able to give you details on it. I know you are mad at me, but please, trust me, I had never asked you for anything, just this time, trust me. that's all I am asking.
Angel: HAVE YOU FORGOTTEN YOUR TASK, MISTER???
EG: I have not, but I do not trust the task given, considering the large amount of concealed details it holds. I knew something is wrong with the task, I want to know exactly what is happening if I am ordered to complete the task with my life at stake.
Angel: u dun really need to die!
EG: do you think Keel with that kind of power will come with us silently? without putting up a great fight?
Angel: You have forgotten something, haven't you?
EG: no, I know perfectly well u are a Grand Priestess, but your power is no where near Keel... and you are always so stubborn, it is a miracle I am still alive from protecting you.
Angel: HAHAHAHAHA!!! Nowhere near him? you want to see me open up the heaven with a Grand End 10 times the power that destroy King's City? You have Cleary underestimate me, mister Keeper!!
Bean: WHAT??? no priest can use the Grand End!! how can u use it?
Ariel: Ya, how can u use it? u are still a Priestess, u know, not a sorcerer.
EG: stop bragging, Angel. u can't use Grand End...
Angel: oooo, I can't isn't? u want to try me huh?
EG: how can you? everyone knows that Priest cannot beholds such power.
Ariel: ya, how can you?
Angel:  *looks at the remaining half of the splinted mountain*  *starts to take off the golden bracelets she wore on both hands, immediately, an extreme aura shot out from within Angel, surrounding her body in golden lights, the trees around began to shake violently, strong gust of winds blow around them, strange inscription starts to appear on Angel's hands, neck and face*
EG: ANGEL!!!! WHAT ARE YOU DOING??? STOP IT!! YOU R GOING TO GET HURT!! *try to get near Angel but was pushed back by a strong source of energy*
Ariel: I doubt it, she is releasing a very strong aura... and it is not some power she should have...
Bean: *what the? how can she possess such power?*

Angel points her finger to the mountain, where almost immediately the spell inscriptions appears on it.

EG: NO!!!
Angel: GRAND END!!!

@After a series of devastating Grand Ends... Bean's nerve seemed to be broken, as Angel stood there glaring, and EG stood there ashen-faced, Ariel just covered her mouth... "Oh God, what power... This is even worse than what I have done... I can’t take this anymore..." Suddenly Bean screamed and startling everyone, and just as suddenly he flown to the air and went to a place, which turns out to be the mountain that has just been obliterated... There he saw with his own eyes the devastation that has been left by both Keel and Angel... He went down, still shaking to his bones and scared like a 9-year old boy... Nothing, nothing could prepare him for what he just seen... Suddenly...

: Hmm, this is worse than I thought it would be...

A man in white robes appeared before him, he has short white beard and long black hair, and he was carrying a White Staff. Bean screamed and tried to get away at the man, his black aura suddenly uncontrollably released, gibbering "Not another old man, oh God, I don’t deserve this!!"

: STOP YOUR GIBBERING!!! THIS IS NOT WHAT A DARK SORCEROR LOOKS LIKE!!!

And with that he released some kind of aura, and Bean was caught into it... Strangely, Bean started to calm down, and once he stopped gibbering, and get his own black aura under control, he knelt, feeling very tired and drained...

: It seems that the young Keeper and the Priestess has more to offer. One knew who is Keel, and came in contact with him. The other has a tremendous power, enough to unleash this spell. Even Keel unleashed it 3 times... A shame I'm not the one who will be fighting this war...
Bean: Who the hell are you... and this time PLEASE GIMME AN ANSWER, GODDAMIT!!!
Karthok: I am Karthok... The Light Mage
Bean: KARTHOK?!
Karthok: Please don’t scream, my ears are working just fine, yes I am Karthok, or just a shadow of him perhaps... I'm talking to you through a projection...
Bean: Then you must know... EXPLAIN EVERYTHING DAMMIT!!!
Karthok: I afraid I cant... Because I still don’t know everything
Bean: HOW THE HELL CAN I TRUST YOU, IF YOU WOULDNT TELL ME ANYTHING!!!!
Karthok: Because you have no choice... Because there are nothing left to trust in this world... Even I didn’t know about what transpired in this world, ever since Rygar, Rinka, and my eldest daughter was killed during the rite!!!
Bean:...
Karthok: Yes we don’t know who to trust now, who are our allies and who are not... the only thing that we have right now is each other, Dark Sorcerer and Light Mage, symbol of stability...
Bean: But I still don’t trust you... What proof do you give that you are the Light Mage?
Karthok: Look at my staff... If you are the chosen Dark, than you will recognize it at the back of your mind...

Bean gazed upon the staff. Even though he haven’t seen it before, somehow he knew about it... The White Staff...

Karthok: My time is short. I only want to give you these, prepare yourself...

Then just as suddenly, something crashed into Bean's mind...It took awhile to sort it , but suddenly he recognized it... Every spell, including the Grand End and beyond, was inside his head!!!

Karthok: You may have the knowledge, but you have neither the skill nor the power to try them all... It is imperative that you have the Black Staff... We will meet again... rather the new Light Mage will meet you...

Then he vanished... Bean, feeling very drained, slumped to the ground, and unconscious yet again...

---

Devanna: *tired* It is over father?
Karthok: Yes, it took me longer though. Sorry child, but I have to be there undetected, especially by the company that he was in... Go sleep my child...

@At the Holy Sanctuary Guild.

The Holy Sanctuary Guild, or more commonly known as the Convent, was located on an island West of the King's City, the blessed land of the previous continent that now lay deep under the sea, only a small part of the island was still on land, surrounded by the sea. This is the Baeriumme Island. Baeriumme Island is heavily protected as it is the only surviving land from the Old Continent, making the sea around it and the island itself a Prohibited Area.

The Convent's headquarter was a huge Cathedral, build with white marble in a grand Gothic architecture style, with 16 tower, each facing the 16 compass direction of Mitrash. The Cathedral was build on a hill looking out to the great sea, surrounded by massive plains, forest and beautiful mountains.

Hundreds of Priest and training Acolytes resides here to receive training and classes on various grounds and categories. The vast amount of land on the island makes this place a perfect training heaven.

In the Cathedral,

: so, how is the progress of the set task?
??: not very good, Father... it is not going as we had planned..
: explain
??: looks like the Keeper against the order, Father.
: .... kill him than, he should be easy, considering Angel's skill and level
??: unfortunately, we cannot do so.
: why is that so?
??: Angel seems to be very much influenced by him, she has begun to doubt the Convent's order herself. and the company she had chosen... it is a wonder she is still with us..
: what company?
??: the 2nd Dark Sorcerer.... a young man, unknown and Ariel...
: hmmmmmm....... this is indeed a very unpleasant situation... send "him." Watch the situation closely and eliminate when necessary.
??: "him"? but, ...
: this is final.
??: yes, Father.

@Back at Laguna

Keel: Ahh… that was so refreshing. It’s great to scare the living daylights out of somebody.
Regina: Ya… you scared us too! I can’t believe you did that. Wasn’t it one of your policies that we should stay hidden and avoid detection?
Keel: Who said I had to follow them?
??: If you did, I wouldn’t be here.

Keel turns at the new arrival and groans. She was about Regina’s height and was dapped in a gown that curved around her perfectly, enhancing her assets. Keel was indifferent to that, however. Her face was hidden beneath her soft, radiating glow.

Keel: Figure as much you would be here. *grinning* How can I help you?
??: Buy staying here and stop interfering! I had plans for that mountain you so casually halved, you know.
Keel: But it’s so B.O.R.I.N.G here. You know me… I just want to have fun. *grin again*
??: Yeah, and next thing I know, I’m out of a job. You know who you are so be responsible for your actions.
Keel: Responsible? My whole existence IS a responsibility. Am I not wrong?
??: *scoffed at Keel* Hmm… don’t get in my way. *turns to leave*
Keel: Oh, by the way… your strings are necking, Destiny. *super wide grin*

A vein edged on explosion as she stamped her foot and faded into the darkness. Keel then feel to his knees and started laughing… loud. Regina and Xrnon, however, stared at his childish act with as much amusement as reading every law book ever written.

Xrnon: Does Keel know what he just did?
Regina: I guess so… and we better don’t ponder about it. We might spend an eternity doing so and still not get the answers…

~*~

[Angel]

The next day…

ElderG: Okay, casualty report. One unconscious dark aura emitting short guy?
DD: Check
ElderG: 1 exhausted powerful great priestess? *mumble* not to mention stubborn too…
Angel: I heard that! *punch*
DD: Definitely a check.
ElderG: *rubbing my sore face* And one chickened red dragon. *looks at Femara* Wonder what’s gotten into her?
Ariel: *using DD* She’s afraid. I can’t pinpoint exactly what she’s afraid of, but we won’t have to look far.
ElderG: Yeah, when you can move mountains with on a whim, it’s a wonder we are still alive. *looks at Angel* Why do I get the feeling my privacy has just been invaded?
Ariel: *laughing* because it has!
Angel: Yeah, keep something to yourself again and it may just be you standing in that pillar of light. *evil grin*
ElderG: Did I mention I survived the last one?
Angel: But mine will be 10 times that! Up to the challenge?
ElderG: Uh… never mind…

After loading Bean onto Femara, we were able to coax her to fly. It wasn’t an easy ride after that; we had this lasting fear that Femara would pummel to the ground at the memory of Keel forgetting we are on her back. We held our breath for a whole day –which passed uneventfully- until we caught a glimpse of Sirroth. And true to its name, the sunset that welcomed us to the warrior city was indeed crimson. We hid Femara in the dense forest about 10 miles from Sirroth; bringing a dragon in would result in a wave of wannabe hero’s flocking for a chance at slaying glory. Defiantly not a choice we would make.

ElderG: Never did like this place… and never will.
Angel: Why not? I’m sure mercenaries like you Keepers would jump at the chance to flock together with other merchants.
ElderG: Half of them have their heads up in the sky and the rest are just plain irritating. The next guy that starts a story on how he killed a hundred demons will lose his head.
Angel: Ho… that annoying huh?

Just then, I caught sight of some familiar faces.

ElderG: I think I’m starting to like this place. Go ahead, I’ll catch up. *walks away*
Angel: Hmm… better keep an eye on him. *turns to DD* Ariel, think you follow him without being detected?
Ariel: Sure. Leave it to me.

~*~

They were all there. Trevor, Arnark, Jogan, Laurana, Floren and Itnas. If they were here, there was only one reason… and the thought of that made me nostalgic.

ElderG: Never thought I’ll see you all in one city… one STANDING city. *turns to Trevor* Are Jogan and Floren still at war?
Trevor: They made up last month. You’ve been away for to long…
ElderG: I would have catch up you if I weren’t in such a hurry the last time we meet.
Trevor: You’re busy… for a wandering Keeper. I can’t believe you got a Task.
Arnark: What!? He got one!?
Itnas: I bet my next winnings he bribed for it.
Laurana: And I’ll double that!
ElderG: Winnings? It’s a recall, isn’t it?
Arnark: First time in 5 years… or was it 10? I don’t know… I only got out 4 years ago.
Floren: *everybody laughing* Great… he’s still as blur as ever…
ElderG: Something’s never change.

~*~

Ariel: *thinking* Seems like a normal conversation between friends. Guess I don’t have to be here anymore. *leaves*

~*~

Trevor: She’s gone…
ElderG: Good. Now, any details on the recall?
Itnas: Rumor has it the crone Marag has been ranting again.
ElderG: She’s been ranting since I was born…
Itnas: Not this time. Remember the Matherauimme disaster? She thinks it’s the sign of prophecy.
ElderG: So that’s what got them so worked up. But then again, who trusts those prophecies?
Jogan: They aren’t truly prophecies but possibilities. Then again, what I’m to say? I’m a Keeper, not a theologian.

We laughed and continue on till late into the night. We had many things to catch up on and they had information I had missed during all that action. From what I can gather –after all that drinking- the council had issued a total recall. Home was going to get VERY crowded in the next month. I left them to their antics and found Angel and gang in an inn south of town. I knew sooner or later I had to leave. My Task here had ended…

--------------------------------

@ElderG enter the inn, looking around to find the rest of them, hoping to get a decent meal before sleeping as he is still hungry from his previous meal with his fellow Keepers. Well, you can't be too full when you are eating with a bunch of people who really eats like there will be no tomorrow  he found them in a corner at the back of the inn, chatting happily. Just as he started to walk towards them, Angel rose from her seat, took a large bag, which he suspected, was fully packed with foods, walk towards him, and she reached him, instructed him to follow her. ElderG was surprised of her action, but his mind is more interested with the bag she carries with her.

As they reached outside the city gate, approaching the forest where Femara is currently residing.

ElderG: so, where are we going?
Angel: into the forest, we need to take a look at Femara and make sure she is okay, plus I don't think you will want them to see you grawping on your food eh?
ElderG: hey!! I dun grawp my food!
Angel: ah, so let me flash back on the first time we met  
ElderG: I thought you were over it?
Angel: hahahaha! nah, just joking. I need to talk to you.
ElderG: ............... about what?
Angel: our task
ElderG: what about it? if it is regarding Keel, I apologize, okay?
Angel: yes and no.
ElderG: what's yes and what's no?
Angel: later, let's check on her first.

In front of them, Femara was laying lazily on the ground, looking at them as they approach her. She looks tired, but at least the fear in her has somewhat reduced, probably because of the rest.

Angel: so, how're you doing? good? *runs her hand on Femara's head softly*
Femara: arkkk *nodded*
Angel: good, take a rest ya, you are tired.
Femara: arkkkkkkkkkk

Angel turned back to ElderG, who is now eating the foods from the bag.

ElderG: so, you can be gentle too, hah? wish you were always like that, then I don't have to endure so many...
Angel: *pinch his arm hard* ya?  
ElderG: OUCH!! that's painful!!
Angel: stop nagging me then.
ElderG: hey, I am not nagging. you really should do something about your behavior, you know. no matters what, you are still a young lady, so behaves like one.
Angel:  whatever.... anyway, back to our original topic.
ElderG: ...... go ahead *continues eating*
Angel: *leans very close to ElderG's side*
ElderG:  hey!! what are you doing?
Angel: *whispers* someone is watching us, since this morning, someone from the church.. I think he is a spy from the Convent.
ElderG: *  whispers back* who? why are they sending a spy on us?
Angel: because I think they noticed that I am going to betray them...
ElderG: What? but I thought...
Angel: I trust you more than the blardy Convent now, you do realized they hide so many details from us, and that Keel, I sense Holy in him, just like me, I think he is one of the Chosen Ones as well, and I don't like being a puppet.
ElderG: glad you realized that. what do think the Convent wants then?
Angel: no idea.... they are very careful in their task, never mention anything to anybody who is not directly involved. but I know they are helping the King in something, don't really know what it concerns though....
ElderG: I see..... so, what are you going to do now?
Angel: I need to find something that belongs to me first...
ElderG: what is it? if you don't mind telling...
Angel: my mother.... I need to find her, I never knew who she is...
ElderG: .... sorry to hear that.. do you know where to find her?
Angel: no idea at all..... the only thing I have is ....
ElderG: yeah?
Angel: a relic tattoo on my chest....
ElderG: oh, .....so, err.... you need my help right?
Angel: if you are willing to... yes.
ElderG: sure.
Angel: well, thanks a lot. I think we better get going.
ElderG: yeah, but he is watching us now, right? what should we do, I think he'll suspect what we are doing out here at this time.....
Angel: this, this will seal his blardy eyes as well, then I’ll port us back to the inn.
ElderG: what?

*KISS*

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

@"Dark... so dark... where am I? So tired, damn..."

In a distant he heard someone singing... "Who, who is it... Why is it so dark? Devanna, is that you?" Bean opened his eyes and he was at a riverbank near a waterfall... It seems to be too good to be true... The singing voice came clearer now, it was like it was beside him... He sat up, and turned his head towards the river... What he saw makes his eyes bulged...

A woman, bathing naked in the river. The woman, realizing something, turned also... And their eyes met. The woman screamed at the top of her lungs, while Bean, promptly turned his head, and cover his ears, trying to block the sound to no avail...

: YOU!! HOW COULD YOU...?!! DAMN!!
Bean: Sorry. I didn’t know... I...
: YOU! YOU PERVERT!!!

The woman rose from the water, conjured clothes out of nowhere, and bore down on Bean... She fell short of giving him hell, when she recognized him...

: YOU!! HOW DID YOU GET HERE, BEAN!!
Bean: *still cowering* How should I know?! I was unconscious and when I opened my eyes I was here!!
: THIS IS MY DREAM!! DREAMS SHOULD BE PRIVATE NOW, SHOULDNT IT?!!
Bean: Yeah, sorry, but I tell you I really don’t know how I get here... Wait a minute, HOW THE HELL YOU KNOW MY NAME?!!
: I KNOW WHO YOU ARE, DARK SORCEROR!! YOU SHOULD KNOW ME TOO, DEVANNA, DAUGHTER OF KARTHOK!!
Bean: Huh? What?
Devanna: AND NOW YOU GET OUT OF MY DREAM!!
Bean: AND HOW THE HELL CAN I DO THAT DAMMIT!!!
Devanna: I DONT KNOW!!! JUST GET OUT
Bean: I WILL IF I COULD, BUT THE MATTER IS "HOW"

They continue like that for awhile...

Once they have calmed down, and Devanna was certain that Bean didn’t know how to get out of her dreams, they sat on the bank and talked...

Bean: So, uh you said your name was Devanna right??
Devanna: Yeah, what's wrong with that??
Bean: Nothing, really... Just I was acquainted with a woman named Devanna before, an angel actually...
Devanna: I know...

They sat quietly for a few moment... Then

Devanna: Why did the Black Staff chose you... You are quite pathetic back there, when my father spoke with you...
Bean: What? You were there??
Devanna: Yep, I was a shield actually, my father did all the work and I was there to keep others from noticing.
Bean: Oh...
Devanna: But still, you are pathetic...
Bean: Maybe I am... Still... It chose me, didn’t it??
Devanna: Yeah... I wonder why, though...
Bean: *shrugs* you are the daughter of Karthok right?? Must have a lot of power too... Being the daughter of him
Devanna: A little... I'm weaker than my sister though... Father mentioned it, you remember?
Bean: Yeah... say...

Suddenly Devanna frowned, and stood up

Devanna: Father's calling me. I have to go...
Bean: What? Wait a minute.

She disappeared suddenly, and the whole world gone dark. Bean floated in the darkness for a while, confused. Then suddenly he smells a stench, stench that he knew...

At Devanna's bedroom...

Karthok: Wake up, my child! Wake up now!!!
Devanna: *still sleepy* Father, I had the most interesting dream, and...
Karthok: No time!! you have to go to Sirroth now!!
Devanna: *Alert* What? Why??
Karthok: Do as I said and take this with you. Uncover it when Bean recovers the Black Staff (gave Devanna a long thing wrapped in white cloth)
Devanna: But why father...
Karthok: JUST GO!! *opened a window*

@As Angel and ElderG went back to the forest, DD was seen buying some medical supplies. Knowing more fights would be in store and that they might not always be there for each other, it would be crucial to have some medicine available. As he was purchasing the stuff, Ariel came by, telling DD she was going up to report the current status of the task.
Ariel : DD, I'm going up to deliver a report of our progress. I hate the superiors so I'm going to let Keif do it instead. I'll take some time so stay out of trouble and be with Angel and ElderG ok?
DD : Got it.. *checks a list* I'm almost done here too. The medicine sold here are dirt-cheap since people injure each other almost daily here.  
Ariel :  Wish they wouldn’t be so dumb to kill each other just for their own egos...Sigh....
DD : I never fought before so I might not understand them... But as humans they may have a desire to fight for whatever reasons that they only know... Don’t you have any desires before?
Ariel : Desires......... *shows a sad complexion*
DD : What's wrong?
Ariel : Nothing..... *Tries to hide her sad tone. Then after chanting a spell,* Watcher Ariel from King city requesting access..... Gate 3? Understood. *Disappears in a ray of light.*

DD was slightly disturbed by Ariel's response and suddenly had a feeling he forgot something. He then walks out of the pharmacist with a small amount of supplies, careful not to purchase too much that it would hamper their movement. As he was walking, with his mind not focused on the road in front, he bumped into some delinquents of the city. Staying true to their thuggish character, they rudely demanded that he apologize and hand over his stuff as compensation after surrounding him. Willing to apologize but not willing to give in to their demands, the thugs closed in on DD and proceeded with a whacking as he left his weapons back with Femara. Bringing weapons to a city where people duel for fun may look to be attracting duels. A bruised and battered DD was soon limply sitting on the floor, leaning against a wall whereas the thugs didn’t seem to be done with him yet. As they closed in, DD slowly picked himself up. Raising his left arm vertically in front of his face, he mumbled something and the back of his left palm started to give off a dim glow. The thugs, watching in confusion, decided not to risk anything so they moved in for the kill. DD opens his eyes, and bones broke out from the earth to form the cross Necrid gave him at the back of his hand. With a quick swing of his arm, the cross was in his left hand, and what followed was a beating of a lifetime for the thugs. The leader of the thugs, impressed by DD's ability, called for a duel. Feeling arrogant, the leader called DD.
Leader : Hey young boy! Since you took down my men single handedly, do you expect me to let you go just.... *DD raises his hand to signal stop*
DD : Just.... bring it on.......
Leader : Why you! Hah you will know the power of the one who controls this city's back alleys! I'll take you down with my bare hands in 5.... *DD tries to draw first blood while the leader was still talking*
the fight was on. A crowd of warriors soon gathered to watch the duel. At first, DD was doing well, blocking his opponent’s attack and counteracting with soft blows as if mocking the leader.
Leader : Humph! Not bad for a young boy. But then again, that's only 30% of what I can actually do. Can you handle 60%?
A few blows later, the winner has not been decided. DD looks slightly tired as the leader upped his energy and speed whereas the leader still looks good.
Leader : Can't keep up with me? How sad.... Time to end this dull match. "Full Efficiency"!!
The leader upped his speed and strength to his limits. After throwing a few blows that hit DD, DD staggered back and started responding by slightly surpassing his opponent’s speed. After deflecting a few blows, he used his fist to punch the guy's face before retreating back, with a grin on his face.
Leader : That does it! "True Sight"!, "Fatal Limit"!
DD attacks first, but the leader successfully broke all his attacks. The leader counterattacked, pummeling DD with greater strength.
Leader : I've tasted only victories within 5 minutes after using both spells to surpass my limits and seeing my opponents attacks, no matter how fast they are. You will be an example to those who go against me in the future! *Points toward the crowd*
DD : Is that so....? *walks slowly towards the leader. The leader tries to punch DD, but DD grabs the punch* Let's go... "Into The Unknown"! *A black sphere covers both of them*
Inside the sphere, it was pitch black. The leader was practically blind as he could not see anything. DD bashed him up nicely before grabbing him by the neck. He exclaimed : - Is that all you can offer? - He then took aim at the leader's head, where his critical blow training has lead him to see the exact position to strike. Hesitating for a moment, he tried to carry it out later only for someone to grab the leader out of the sphere and back into the real world. As he opened his eyes to the light that shone in, he saw Keif tossing the leader to the ground. The sight of Keif restored DD to his old self.
Keif : So your here? Where's Ariel? Didn’t I tell you I'd meet her here?
DD : .......Maybe that's the thing I forgot..... She said she was going up a few moments ago to report the current condition to......You?....
Keif : They must have used a spell to make you forget a few minutes of your day when you were back in the cave.. That doesn’t matter, *Conjures a counteracting spell for DD.* Now if you excuse me, I must get to Ariel quick. *Disappears in a ray of light*
DD sits there, beside the leader of the thugs that has clearly been defeated, refreshing his memory while the crowd still looked on.

DD soon remembers the time when he was back at the cave. Keif found him there and helped rescue the people that were injured by DD. Before DD noticed, the cross that Necrid gave him had already broke down into individual pieces of bones. Keif later told him he had important things to talk to Ariel and told DD to meet him at Sirroth. Soon, Keif sensed something amiss and hurriedly left. 1 guy then approached DD, asking for Keif's whereabouts. DD instinctively said he didn’t know after watching Keif's antics earlier on. The guy then apologized and mumbled something before leaving. ElderG and Angel then returned after that and they all left on Femara for Sirroth.

@Suddenly there was knocking on the door. Devanna hastily gather some of her things and change into her white robe. Karthok faced the window and it seemed something came out of him. After he had finished, a falcon was outside the window, and he seemed out of sorts, and tired. Devanna never saw him like this before...

At the door: In the name of Light, open this door, Karthok!!
Karthok: Quickly, ride him. Go to Sirroth, go to Bean, and tell him no one could be trusted anymore.
Devanna: Father... (tears went down her cheek)

Before she went out, he gave her a hug... the first in years...

Karthok: Sorry for what I have done... I have never been a good father. Now go, I have faith in you...

Before Devanna could utter a word, he pushed her onto the falcon and it fly away, just as the door was shattered... Beneath the tower she saw glimpses of the banner, she thought it was the banner of the Convent... but the falcon flew away into the sky...

Meanwhile, at Sirroth Bean woke up suddenly. Bean unleashed his black aura, and it fills the room...

Bean: HE'S HERE!! AND IT'S HERE TOO!! DAMMIT NECRID PREPARE YOURSELF!!!

Somewhere in Sirroth...

Necrid: Hmm, wonder how strong would he be now? Well then, I will find out soon enough

@*Teleported into the inn room*

ElderG: *reel back* WOW!! *touch my lips* was that… for real!?
Angel: Why? Never been kissed before?
ElderG: No… but it’s kind of nice… sweet too.
Angel: Sure it is. *seductively* Want another one?
ElderG: Ah… I think one shock for today is good enough. How bout… tomorrow?
Angel: *laughing* Don’t push it. That was just a preview. Besides, you haven’t earned these lips yet.
ElderG: *thinking* Uh… I think earning them would kill me…
Angel: *angry* What do you mean by that!?
ElderG: *mumble* But worth it…

I blushed and she blushed; she must have heard me. Let’s not talk about that any further.

Angel: *shouting in the background* Ah… Bean’s awake.
ElderG: Along with his share of dark powers… We’d… better go and have a look at him.
Angel: …Yeah, we should…

We got out of the room –which was Angel’s, I might add- and walked over to the next room, which was mine. Unconscious guys don’t have their own rooms after all. We instantly noticed his dark aura, not by the power it emitted, but because there was a pulsing shadow from beneath the door. Since we had no idea what Bean’s aura was, we waited outside the room until it had subsided.

ElderG: *enters and looks around* Man… it’s a miracle that everything is still standing. *looks at Bean* I suspect your aura doesn’t destroy as much as we were made to believe?
Bean: I have control over my powers. Don’t underestimate me…
ElderG: Never said I did.
Bean: But that isn’t the problem… Necrid… he’s here.
Angel: Necrid? That sounds familiar…
ElderG: A demon most likely… Wait… where’s DD?
Angel: Isn’t he in his room?
ElderG: No… I asked him to look over Bean when we arrived here.
Bean: I was alone when I awoken.
ElderG: Great… we got a demon hunting us and DD’s somewhere… in lots of danger…
Bean: I’ll go and search for him. I know Necrid… and I have a score to settle…

Bean left on his DD hunt and I made my way to the tavern where I left my fellow Keepers. They were gone by the time I got there; nightfall was the perfect time to slip out of town undetected, but judging from the alcohol they had consumed, I couldn’t believe they were sober enough to make the trip out of here. The tavern wasn’t far from the inn, so I made the side trip quick before returning to the inn. Knowing that the convent spy was around, I couldn’t leave Angel alone anymore…

@ElderG quickly rushed back to Angel's room to check on her. He is worried about her safety after finding out about the Convent's spy.

ElderG: she's better be alright....

Reaching her room, ElderG quickly open the door and

Angel: ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!! WAT R U DOING, U IDIOT!!! *throws a handful of flame to ElderG* GET OUT!!!!
ElderG: *narrowly avoided the flame, quickly close the door behind him* I am sorry, why didn't you lock the door?  *Angel was dressing up*
Angel: DON'T YOU READ???
ElderG: *looks at the door for some kind of message, and found a big note - DO NOT ENTER!!* .... still, why didn't you lock the door? I was in a hurry, I didn't notice the sign....
Angel: the lock is not functioning!! and the damn inn owner said he could only fix it the next morning. *open the door, and walk back into the room, leaving the door open for ElderG*
ElderG: not functioning? did u check on it when we check-in? *looks at the door lock*
Angel: no, I didn't use the room until just now. can you fix it?
ElderG: Yes, I’ll go get some tools. *go to get his tools and return almost immediately, starts to repair the door lock*
Angel: why were you in such a hurry? u almost scares the daylights out of me.
ElderG: OH!! I almost forgot!!

*ElderG told Angel about the search for DD*

Angel: so, he is still out there? why on earth did you come back if you have not found him?
ElderG: hey! I am worried about you, that's why!!
Angel: I am NOT a kid! I can take care of myself.
ElderG: ...... I doubt you can.... with that temper of yours.... *furious for the lack of appreciation*
Angel: .... fine.. you have check on me and I am perfectly save, now can you go find DD?
ElderG: ... you are coming with me, and no complaining!!
Angel: HEY! since when....
ElderG: NO complaining, you are coming with me, whether you like or not.
Bean: no need
Angel: huh?
ElderG: what? *look behind Angel, Bean was standing there with DD, both grinning* you found him? good.
Bean: yeah, found him down there, at the entrance of this inn. how can you miss him?
ElderG: ... I ... err....
Bean: oh, nevermind,  
ElderG: hey, what is that supposed to mean?
Bean: nah, just to tell you that I perfectly understand men with obligations usually have more than half of their mind occupied by another person in their life  
ElderG: ...... U ....
DD: so, since when? I wouldn't have known if I had not heard you ordering her like that *grin*
Angel: WHAT??? how much have you two heard?
DD: *mimicking Angel's voice* so, is he still out there? why on earth did you ...
Angel: *SMACK* that's enough!! you are so rude!! how can you listen to private conversation like that!!!
DD: hey, it is not exactly private if the door is wide open *grin*
ElderG: I was fixing the damn door!!
Bean: yeah, u already finished fixing by the time we reached here, and the door is still wide open *evil grin*
Angel: .... grrrrr *flame starts to form in her palm*
ElderG: Angel, don't.....

Bean and DD, noticing the danger, quickly rushed out of the room, leaving ElderG and Angel there, alone......

ElderG: don't .....
Angel: ........ I am sleeping!!
ElderG: ... okay, I am next door if you need me. *walk towards the door, he paused there before making his exit* goodnight.
Angel: ...... *already tucked-in her blanket, with her back facing ElderG, obviously still angry*
ElderG: ... I’ll switch off the light and lock the door behind me then.

And with that, ElderG closed the door behind him and headed back to his room, or both his and Bean's room more like it, since they are sharing.. He dreaded returning to the room as he know perfectly well the torment he'll receive from the ever mischievous Bean, and DD. Why must he make such a fool out of himself when those two were watching? but then, it is not like he knew it, but how come he didn't detect their coming?
*I must have been careless, letting down my guard like that. if anything happens to Angel, I am as good as dead. better keep myself alert 24-7* He reached his dreaded room and >>>>
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

[Angel]

@In the place above the clouds (You can call it heaven.  )
Ariel then ascends to the sky to report the unusual occurrences happening back on the world of Mitrash. After getting clearance from the guards of gate 3, she proceeds into the city in the sky. While walking past the Ascension Bureau there, her friend, in officer’s uniform and carrying a huge stack of forms, called out to her.
: Ariel~! Nice to see you here! Could you give me a hand with this stack of forms please?
Ariel : Oh, hi.... Sure, no problem.
*Ariel acknowledges and helps carry the forms. With her friend leading the way, she followed behind. Glancing at her surroundings, she was curious. The place had scarce activity the last time round but now, the place was like a beehive, spirits in queues, officers busy clearing forms etc. While looking around, she bumped into the back of her friend that had stopped at a desk and Ariel dropped the forms. She apologized and starts picking up the forms.*
: Sigh... You still haven’t changed have you? The same old Ariel that we know.
Ariel : Sorry.... My mind went drifting...  Anyway, I noticed this place has become so busy.. Weren’t these the job that everyone wished for? Little work for big returns?
: This is the LEAST wanted job now. We receive loads of forms to process nowadays. It's like we're building an army here at this rate! Even though the returns are big, nobody wants posts here now cause we hardly get to rest... *Before Ariel gets to ask further, her friend was called by another officer. Her friend apologized and offered to chat later when her shift was over. Ariel decided to get her stuff done before coming back to find her friend.*
Ariel looked around the usual places Keif goes. Unable to find Keif, she unwillingly decided to report straight to the superiors as Keif's role was similar to a middleman. Standing in front of the Hall, she told the guards that she had to report the current status of her task to the Superiors. After a while, she was allowed to enter the hall. The superiors were there, waiting for her report.
Superiors : Why is a watcher reporting here? Where is your Guardian?
Ariel : I can’t find him so I decided to come here. If you don’t like it then fine, I'll leave cause I don’t want to be doing this anyway.
Superiors : Carry on.. *Ariel explains their encounter with Keel, Necrid and their companions’ abilities. The superiors discussed silently for a while*
Ariel : You haven’t told me the purpose of our task yet. Isn’t it our right to know what we are doing, especially if we're breaking the rule not to interfere in the lives of humans?
Superiors : Just do as your told.
Ariel : Your expecting me to follow your orders blindly?
Superiors : Do not question our orders watcher.
Ariel : I am not questioning your orders. I just want some details about our task. Is that too much to ask from you guys who sit up here doing nothing while we sweat it out in the world below?
Superiors : Enough! You talk like the Guardian named Keif that came by some time ago and are equally disrespectful. Who is your Guardian? He shall be punished for sending a rude watcher here.
Ariel : The one you just mentioned, Keif. And he didn’t send me here. It's just that I can’t find him.
Superiors : Keif..... Report back to us if you make contact with him..
Ariel : ..? He's lost?
Superiors : We wont tell you the details. Do not ask.
*The door barges open. Keif enters the hall*
Keif : Ariel. Come, let’s leave this place. They do not deserve our trust and may be even betraying what little trust we have in them.
*Grabs Ariel’s arm and flees. Guards start to give chase. After running around, they both hide in a building in the city. The guards pass by, missing them.*

Back on earth,
DD, ElderG and Bean were staring at their room's content. They had to share a room as the inn was fully occupied. In the room there was a single bed, a padded chair and some desks.
DD : Looks like someone's going to have to sleep on the floor tonight. *Looks behind and finds ElderG and Bean in a battle of wills.*  
Bean : Winner takes the bed! *Stretches his hand out for an arm wrestling match*
ElderG : Sure thing. And no cheating with spells ok? :  
Bean : Same to you.  
DD : Hey, what bout me?
Both of them in sync : Stay out of this weakling. You'll take the floor. *evil stare* We'll start on the count of 3, 3!!
*both of them were equally match. As they mocked each other in the process, they didn’t notice the rage burning in DD*
DD : *Silently* Call me a weakling eh? I'll show them..   *collects 3 shreds of paper*
After some time, there's still no winner from the bout. DD steps in and offers another solution where everyone has a chance of winning. Both of them, arrogant, found excuses to get out of their match which was going nowhere and played DD's game, which was the one who picked the longest shred of paper in DD's hand will win. After picking, DD had the longest 1 remaining in his hand.
DD : Heh, tough luck. Looks like I'm getting the bed. *both of them look in disbelief and cry foul* Hey, don’t blame me, I'm just an ordinary person. Ok, time to rest.  
*ElderG and Bean start fighting over the couch cause DD had a point, or so they thought. DD walks over to the waste bin and dumps his paper shred AND the pieces of paper he tore off from both their papers as they pulled it out. They were to busy to notice.* Yeah, I'm an ordinary person, solving things as I can. *Evil laugh*
As DD prepared to sleep, he could still hear them fighting over the chair. Grinning slightly, he dozed off. After a while, he saw a messy room through someone’s eyes. Inside were some people, all with some sort of religious paraphernalia. As they approached the person, they all got killed in a gruesome manner, some getting their hearts stabbed, others hand their limbs slowly breaking off. In the end, there was only 1 person left. A hand grabbed the man by the throat and the man was raised to face level, with their eyes meeting. In the man’s eye, fear could be felt. DD noticed the reflection in the scared man’s eyes, a reflection of the person who killed everyone. Before the person struck the guys head off, in the split second where the weapon almost made contact with the man’s head DD realized the reflection of the person who killed everyone…. Was him! Blood splattered onto the person and covered his vision, and DD screamed. Then, he felt someone punch him on the head.
DD : *Awake*….Ouch!…. what was that..? *Feels some liquid on his face*…. Blood? *Screams*
ElderG : Thanks for punching me in the face! *Crawls up from the side of the bed and uses a hand to cover his nosebleed*
DD : That was a dream? *Finds himself drenched in sweat*
ElderG : What were you dreaming of? Flinging your hand around aimlessly while mumbling something? When you finally stopped moving your hands I tried to check on you and you give me a punch in the face while screaming into my ear.  Is that how you thank me for being concerned?
DD : Erm…. Thanks? Sorry for that… I didn’t even know what I was doing. Forgive me?
ElderG : Since you were sleeping…. I guess I’ll forgive you if you swap places with me.  
DD : Hey, I earned it fair and square.
ElderG : Yeah you did. And now you owe me right?
DD : ……… *gets off the bed,  * Who got the chair?

@ElderG : I did, after some "negotiation" with Bean.
DD : So Bean sleeps on the floor? *ElderG nods. DD looks around* Well, I don’t see him. *ElderG also looks around, and finds a note on the floor signed by Bean. It says Bean went to Angel's room to sleep on the couch since she's using the bed and would sneak back before she awakens.*
ElderG : What??!!
DD :     Maybe he...  
They both head to Angel's room and silently opened the door. Both their heads moved with the door, trying to peek inside. As the door opened, a cockroach crawled out, frightening DD who fell backwards. ElderG didn’t bother and finally got a peek into the room when it the door opened up enough. Inside, he saw Bean sleeping on the couch, just like he said and ElderG let of a sigh of relief, telling himself Bean isn’t that stupid. As his eyes scan the room, he saw a figure near Angel's bed. Since it was still dark, he couldn’t see who was that. The figure was doing something to Angel, and ElderG burst into the room. The figure, noticing ElderG, tries to flee by jumping over Angel onto the window frame and get out of the room. ElderG lunged forward, grabbing the figure by the hand. Off came the thief's ring and Angel's rosary, which the thief tried to steal, but ElderG couldn’t hold on to the figure and it escaped. ElderG then fell down onto a sleeping Angel, waking her up. DD soon got himself back up and peeked into the room.
DD :  ElderG! I never knew you would....... *Bean pushes DD out and follows DD out. Both of them missed the intruder earlier on as Bean woke up when ElderG barged into the room. His vision was still fuzzy then.*
Bean : Sorry to have interrupted~!   *Closes the door*
Inside, ElderG stared at Angel, and Angel stared back. Outside, Bean and DD's ear were stuck to the door, listening to what was happening inside.
Bean : Wonder what'll happen next eh DD?  
DD :  Get ready to duck for cover just in case.  

@It was a cool day while the Graduated-one-week-ago Lulianar of the Ki Eblyss tribe (I’m the one and only Ki Eblyss Lulianar after the village's Elder, as I am the only one with the talent to =P), Me, began my journey to the outside world other than the Village of Kuishka, where I belong. I walked in the forest, heading nearer and nearer to a big city, called Matherauimme, the King's City.
"World of Mitrash, here I come...."
~Nightfall~
I continued traveling as I am approaching the city's gate in just two more hours. Suddenly, sounds as heard from everywhere.
'Leave all your gold, and we will spare your life.'
J.A : And what if I refuse?
Two men with daggers in their hands walked out from the bush.
Man1 : And you die!!!

Man1 comes after me, trying to stab me at the stomach. I evaded and hit him on the back using my right elbow.
Man2 strikes from behind, I squat down and sweep my leg around, tripping him.
Man1 and Man2 headed for me from the front and back. I step to the left but they took a right step and used both their daggers to slash me. Raising my Katar I parry an attack and evaded the other. And there it comes again, another slash from the front. The one I parried stepped back and launch himself at me again. I took a jump back.

Man1 :You are such weakling! *evil laugh*
I grinned.

I close my eyes and focus energy into my katar and it flashes Blue.
Man2 : Attack!
They started running towards me with their dagger in front of them.
I pulled my right hand (with katar) to the back and slammed it on the floor.
J.A : ABSOLUTE!
A blue light emerges from the katar and 2 huge ice berg form right beneath their legs and freeze them. I ran at them and hit it with my katar, broke the ice and stabbed them.

Man1 and 2 : Ugh.....
J.A : Imbecile....
I continued rushing to the city's gate, hoping to avoid the unnecessary encounters.

@*Startled*
J.A : What happened here? The King City's gone....
-Stared at the Land for a long time -
J.A : No time to waste, must find a city soon enough.
-Starts dashing to the east. But, halt suddenly. -
J.A : Come out, minions. Your aura is too obvious to hide yourselves.
-5 demon walks out of the woods. -
Demon1(D1): (in a growling voice)Capable of you to notice us, but we longed for human blood! And you.. YOU shall be our dinner tonight!

J.A : Imbecile enough to challenge me.

All of the demons launched fireballs at me, continuously. I jumped here and ran around the trees, just to find myself unable to counter any of the attacks.

J.A : Damn, outnumbered.
I stomped my right foot on the ground, charge yellow energy to my katar and shouted, " MIRAGE!", summoning light to me and forcing myself to be invisible to the demons.
Demon1 : Invisibility eh? This is hard... *ponders*
Demon5 : Smell for him!
They started sniffing around for my scent. I took a run to a demon's back and slashed my katar over his neck, killing him. The others noticed it and launches fireball at me. I tried to evade but bumped into a demon right behind me.

J.A : DARN!

I bend down and took a leg sweep on the demon. It fell down and I jumped up as a few fireballs were coming and hit the demon on the floor, turning it into dusts. I ran a big round jumping on trees, evading fireballs, and reach a demon. I jumped down and cut it into half. The other 2 left surrounded me with fire charged in their hands.

One threw the fire at me and as I evaded it, the other from behind hit me right at the back, sending me down on my knees. I jumped up and evaded another fireball, and kick the demon behind me. Using it as a boost to my jump, I launch myself at the other demon and slash its neck. The one behind my send another fireball at me. I parry the attack with my katar and got hit on the stomach when it charged at me.

Demon : Hahahaha, you are not as smart as you look, kiddo.
J.A : 5 on 1, and you're the only left, its okay to talk more, as you'll die soon enough.

Just as I finished my sentence, I used another time of Mirage and fade away.

Demon : Again!?!

Appearing behind the demon, as I laid my katar on it, It hit its elbow on me, sending me to a tree.

Demon : The same trick won't work twice, kiddo.

And then, he was killed with my katar in his stomach.

Demon:  How.. did.... you?

J.A : Just a simple thing called speed. Evading fast enough to avoid been hit by u. Using a stone to let you think you'd hit me. Just 3 steps are enough to get close to u *grin*

J.A : That was exhausting but I don't have anytime to lose.

Suddenly, my ring emits a Green light.

A twirl of wind appears in front of me. Yellow aura emits from the surrounding and a delegate female floats right in front of me.

Valvaris, Guardian of Wind. Has a Yellowish green long hair, all untied. Skin colour is the same as a human. Emerald colour eyes. Wears a green blouse inside, sleeveless. Wears a nearly transparent silk cloth over her upper body. Wears a long skirt that is separated by an opening on her right.

J.A : You have something to inform me, Valvaris?
Valvaris : Yes. You are asked to go to Sirroth, and that is Elder Molemni's word.
J.A : Do you know the reason he did that?
Shiva : Don't know. Elder Molemni only asked me to tell u that.
J.A : Alright then, But it'll be a long way from here, can you fly me to Sirroth then, Valvaris?
Valvaris : Sure, Jester.

Valvaris float up straight, close her eyes and let down her hands on both sides. Her fingertips emit a yellow light, and light breeze blows around me. She opens her eyes and, "Flight!"
Strong gust of wind hits me and brought me high up to the sky. Valvaris tagged along and disappears into yellow aura of wind, combining with the wind that she summoned to transport me.

Valvaris : This will give you a 100% safe journey.

And so, I headed for Sirroth.

@*BANG!!!!!!!!!!!!*
*WHOA!!! NO!! NO!! NO!! STOP IT!! NOO!!!!!*
*U PERVERT!!! ARE YOU ASKING FOR DEAD? #%&*$&#!*
*BOOOMM!!!!*
*NO!!! WAIT!! LISTEN TO ME!!! WHOA!!! STOP!!! LIS.... WARGH!!!!*

DD: whoops? look like a war to me  
Bean: war? murder more like it  

the door suddenly burst open, sending both DD and Bean onto the floor with a hard landing, with ElderG running out of the room to escape a furious Angel, who is hot in pursue to take the life out of him. ElderG run out of the inn, with Angel on his trail, by that time, the whole inn was brightly lighten up as everyone has woke up from the thundering noise of the two. DD looks inside the room to see the effect of the fight to the room, but found no damage, feeling weird he turn to Bean for an answer. but instead of an answer, he saw Bean that had started to run out to follow ElderG and Angel. not wanting to miss a great movie, DD follows suit.

the follow ElderG and Angel to a narrow back-street with a death end, with ElderG on the dead end, looking very annoyed with himself, and Angel who has a handful of flame, ready to strike.

ElderG: Angel, please, let me explain....
Angel: you can do that after I am done with you  
ElderG: look, it's not what you think... there was a thief, I ...
Angel: thief huh? you think I am a kid? who r u kidding?  
ElderG: ... let me explain!!
Angel: you can do the explaining to Hades!!! *throw the flame towards ElderG. he didn't even move, but the flame faded once it touches a light barrier that surrounds him*
Bean: I didn't know he could use Deflect.
DD: what?
Bean: Deflect, a spell to break any spell, depending on your own level. the higher your level is the more spell it can break.
DD: ooooo, that's good for him, isn't?
Bean: I doubt it, with Angel in this kind of situation, u better be prepare for stronger spell....
ElderG: ... fine!!! FINE!! hit me all you like!!
Angel: .....

ElderG's reaction seems to surprise Angel.

ElderG: .... can you please listen to me before you start killing me?
Angel: ....
ElderG: .... there was a thief in your room just now. I was trying to stop him, but unfortunately I fell onto you. I didn't do anything to you. and if I want to do anything to you at all, I won't do it with those two there. I am not that cheap, you know..  
Angel: ....
ElderG: look, I am sorry, okay? what you want me to do?

Bean: marry her?
ElderG:  WHAT??? Are you mad??
DD: hey, good idea. I dun she will mind..  
Angel: .....very funny  

@Baeriumme Island

The Convent's spy has return to the island to make his first report to the Guild Leader. But as to what he has seen in the forest, he doesn't quite understand why would the Father give him such an order at the first place.
*Angel doesn't seems to be betraying the guild, so is the Keeper. the most they could do is to get married, ....... WAIT!! married? but Angel is a Priestess, how can she? ahhhh!!! nevermind, better go tell Father first.......*

Reaching the White Cathedral, he proceed to the spiral stairs at the left-hand side of the Great Hall towards the second floor, where the Father's office was located.

*knock knock*

Father: come in.
: *opens the door and step inside, stopping right in front of the Father's table* Father, I am here to report.
Father: go ahead
: Angel and the Keeper went to the jungle to feed the dragon, but there was nothing strange with them.
Father: dragon?? what dragon?
: a female dark fire dragon, her name is Femara.
Father: ... that's weird, I don't remember Angel could raise a dragon, she doesn't even pass her dragon language test.....
: ...
Father: nevermind that, continue
: I think they are seeing each other...... they err.... sort of ....
Father: seeing each other? what on earth is she doing? has she forgotten who she is???  what have they done???
: ..... err..... they .....
Father: WHAT??  
: kiss...
Father: WHAT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
:  ....... err..... that's all...... *scared of the furious Father*
Father: grrr...... OUT!! GET OUT!! and continue your task!!!!!
: yes, yes Father!! *quickly leave the room*

@Somewhere…

Trevor: Who’s got water?
Itnas: I thought you were holding them?
Trevor: They’re not on me… damn… hangover…
Itnas: Don’t we all have… *looks back to see the whole party having the same hangover* … Great, am I the only guy here who’s smart enough to stay sober? *Looks at the land ahead, which consists of steep barren rocks and beyond, a snow-covered peak* *sigh* This is going to one LONG trip…

~*~

ElderG: Marriage? Out of the question…
Bean: Why not? She won’t mind.
Angel: … Why you…
ElderG: … You won’t understand.
DD: What won’t we understand? Mind you explain…

I snapped, but maintain some control. At least I didn’t kill anybody although it came close; Soul’s tip was resting on DD’s neck, a small trickle of blood flowing out from the flesh wound I had inflicted. The rest stood stunned. I guess they didn’t see that coming, or I was just to fast for them. At least they learned something today.

ElderG: *sheathing Soul* It’s late and I’m sleepy. Good night. *leaves*
Angel: Hey wait! What was that... *stopped by Bean*
Bean: I think he wants to be alone. His eyes then… they were empty.
Angel: Empty?
Bean: Yeh… he was devoid of emotion. *looks at DD* If his control wasn’t perfect, DD would have been a head shorter.
Angel: But… why? He has been always calm…
Bean: Who knows… that guy, ElderG… is an enigma...

~*~

Haha… marriage… what a joke it was. She wouldn’t mind? She definitely would if she knew what I truly am. The duty I was bound to made me what I am now. But they won’t know; they must not. I wonder how long I have to maintain my fallacy…

: ElderG I presume?
ElderG: *turn towards the voice* Who wants to know?
: The voice of the shadows…

This was unexpected. I followed the clocked figure into a dark deserted allay.

ElderG: What you have for me?
: A message… with a price. *holds up his hand*
ElderG: *takes out a pouch* Of course. But first, your name.
: So that you can find me if it’s fake? Kiwi of the Shadows doesn’t deal with fakes.
ElderG: Maybe so, but trust doesn’t exist in my mind. The price?
Kiwi: 20 stones, half split.
ElderG: *drops 20 rough-cut stones into his hand, half black and half white* It better be good for such a steep price.
Kiwi: Iris fragments here are worth pebbles, don’t you remember?
ElderG: But at Orim, one would buy you a hundred men elite army. The message?
Kiwi: Of course. *hands me the parchment* Ah! What do you want with an old homeless guy!? Leave me alone!

I left hastily, evading the eyes of citizens he had awakened. The Shadow guild members were masters at covering their tracks, as you have just witness. I made my way to the inn room where I slept peacefully till morning.

~*~

I was alone when I awoken. I didn’t mind thought; they were still cautious around me. All the better for me to read the message I got last night. Unfolding the parchment, it read:

‘ElderG,

We are in a hurry, so I left this message with a Shadow… but you would know since you ARE reading this now, right? Long story short, the resident angel’s time is up. I was supposed to do it but as long as it’s done, I couldn’t care who did it. I’ll talk to you again once you return home.

Trevor.’

Within me, something had awakened. A feeling, once so natural, was now doing battle with the new me. Doubt had creped into my mind and I was oblivious to it. I should have known, but then, I ignored it. My sense of duty, once so strong, had been chiseled.

I avoided breakfast and made my way into the streets of town. I spend about one quarter of a day there browsing around the multitude of shops available. It was necessary; I was trying to throw off suspicion. Although Sirroth was a city of warriors, every newcomer was subjected to the scrutinizing eyes of the locals. Once I knew I was in the clear, I made my way to the east gate and left for the eastern town a few minutes away.

~*~

*earlier this morning*
DD: He’s still there?
Bean: Last I checked. Don’t worry so much. If he tries to kill you, I’ll kill him.
Angel: Don’t!... ah… I mean… maybe we should try to understand him first…
Bean: *sigh* If you say so. I’m going to town. *turns to DD* You coming?
DD: Of course! *turns to Angel* How bout you?
Angel: I… have a friend I want to meet. I’ll be back before sundown.
Bean: Then it’s settled. We better leave ElderG alone today.

Angel leaves Sirroth through the east gate and heads to a small town some distance ahead. There, she seeks out a small cottage by the woods, slightly removed from the town. As she approaches, a small girl of 5 runs past her is being trailed by 3 others of similar age. With a smile on her face, she enters the cottage and is greeted by young woman, a similar warm smile firmly planted on her face.

: Angel. It’s been a while.
Angel: Ya, 4 years is a while, dear Janice. *hugs* Malina seems fine.
Janice: Of course she is. But I don’t think she can remember you.
Angel: She was still crawling last we meet. She has grown so much
Janice: So as you.
Angel: And you haven’t aged a bit. *both laugh*
Janice: So, what brings you to this part of the world?
Angel: Could I say because of you? To tell you the truth, it's work again.
Janice: Oh, no wonder my patients been telling me stories of disturbances to the west. Is it true that Matherauimme was destroyed?
Angel: *nodding* I was there. It was a Grand End.
Janice: You don’t mean…
Angel: No, I didn’t do it!
Janice: *sigh* Glad it wasn’t you. But… you seem disturbed. Care to share?
Angel: … What do you know about… Keepers.
Janice: *eyes widen* What… do you… want to know?
Angel: What they truly are… I’ve always thought of them as mercenaries, but…
Janice: They… don’t have any sense of right and wrong… only reason and duty. To them, nothing can be right or wrong…
Angel: What’s that suppose to mean?
Janice: It’s about dinnertime and Mr. Kyle’s fresh bread must be out. Can you be so kind and get some? It’s the only bakery in town.
Angel: uh… ok. *leaves*

Janice slumps back into her chair. In her mind, the memories of her late husband came flooding in. Her true love lost not because she had disobeyed Heaven and descended to be with him, but because her punishers decided to spare the life of her unborn child. His death served as a warning to her, but instead she had chosen to stay, preferring to raise her child away from the prejudice that Heaven would deliver to a hybrid. It has been 5 long years, and she wonders how long till her time is up…

Malina: Mommy, there’s a man outside to see you.
Janice: Malina, you’re back. Come here. *thought ‘Who is it I wonder? Malina knows everyone in town.’*
ElderG: Hello Janice.
Janice: *hugs Malina and looks to ElderG, her wide eyes resting on the crest at his collar* Just my luck… and we were just talking…
ElderG: I thought your love’s death would have opened your eyes… but it seems we were wrong…
Janice: Take me, but please spare my child! That I beg of you!
ElderG: No. We once took one life in favor of two, but not today. The balance must be maintained… *reveals Soul already engulfed by an ash-like black fire*

~*~

The locals call her Janice the miracle healer after she miraculously healed the town mayor of a critical injury. It was natural since she was an angel. Unfortunately, her existence on Mitrash meant that the scales had been tipped to Heaven’s side. And our duty is to ensure that this does not happen…

A shadow bolt impales both mother and daughter, dragging their souls at its tip as it returns to the void flame. As the last of their soul is engulfed buy the void, the flame extinguishes itself. In my left hand, a fiery blue fireball is formed and I toss it at the lifeless bodies. The fireball quickly engulfs the bodies in a dazzle of fire while spurting off sparks which quickly turn the flammable wooden cottage into a blazing inferno. Seeing that my work was done, I turned to leave, only to find a surprise waiting for me outside.

Angel: *drops the bread* Janice! Get out of there… *sights ElderG emerging from the blazing cottage* ElderG! Why are you…? *finally brings all together* What… what have you done!? *crying*
ElderG: *shocked but still maintains eyes contact with Angel* My duty…

I moved into the woods as the villagers had caught sight of the fire and was on their way. Angel would be fine, I presume but within my heart, a tingle of regret had found a place there. Further in the future, I would look back to this moment as the point where I had begun to reject and suppress my darker side; a mistake I must never repeat…

@Angel was surprised to see ElderG involved in the brutal slaying of Janice and Malina. But she knows that saving them is far more important than questioning ElderG at the moment. She quickly cast Water to deflame the burning, but was rather unfortunate, as she has arrived a moment too late. Janice was beyond saving; her soul was badly injured to endure any healing. Malina………. It seems like she has too see heaven earlier that she ought to be.

Angel: Janice, are you okay? Talk to me… tells me what happened… Janice…
Janice: ….ughh…. Angel….. him…. the keeper…… he is …. the one….. killed my…. ugh…*cough* be careful…. he is ….. dangerous ….
Angel: what? What’s with him? Janice…. Hang on….
Janice: *took out an Amulet, which is now covered in blood* take this….. go to Amraine…. Go there ….. find Keel ….. your ….. your mother …… your destiny and ….. real identity …….. find Keel ……
Angel: what? Keel? Keel Impreda? What has he got to do with my mother?
Janice: ….. *cough blood* find Keel…………….
Angel: Janice….. JANICE!!!!! NO!!! JANICE!!!! Wake up!!

Tears start to roll down Angel’s check as she mourned the death of her best friends. Janice’s death and the information she gave her tore Angel’s apart. All the while she had trusted a guy whom was associates with Janice’s entire family death, whom had throw her into this dark pith of sorrow, ElderG. She has never feels this bad, she had never make such a big mistake of trusting a Keeper, which one of them took the life of Janice’s husband a few years back. She should have known that by now, no Keepers are trustable, but she has trusted ElderG so much, and this is the payback she received, the death of a dear friend……..

There was nothing else could do….. Janice was an angel, her death will be known soon by the Elders of the Heaven. And she is right…..

Two figures emerge in front of Angel, dress in all white, a man and a woman, except that they both have 6 pairs of wings, Seraphim…

: so, this is her end?
??: I guess she doesn’t have much choice…..
Angel: …. Who are you two?
: ….. Angel Louisnerre, daughter of the great…
??: Shut up!! Are you mad?
: o, sorry, I almost forgot. I have wanted to see her for such a long time…….
Angel: … how did you know my name?
??: We are Seraphim…. Our knowledge is way beyond your imagination… but that doesn’t matter, Miss Louisnerre. We are here to return her to where she truly belongs..
Angel: …. Fine …. Go ahead…. She deserve better than this….
: She receives what she deserves most… this is her own chosen path… her life would have been better if she stays where she belongs….
Angel: She hasn’t done anything to deserve such a death!!!
??: You knew nothing, Miss Loiusnerre… and we have more things to do than to entertain your lack of knowledge, so please pardon our leaving.

And with that, they took Janice’s and Malina’s body, and disappear immediately……

Angel: …… *looks at the bloody Amulet* what does this have to do with my mother? And Keel ……. And ElderG…

Angel headed back towards the inn…..


*The Inn*

Bean: hey, what happened? Where are you going?
DD: I thought you were supposed to protect Angel in her mission?
ElderG: …. Stay out of this… this is a matter between Angel and me
Bean: oh ya?  Who are we? Audiences? You better tell us what the heck is going on!!!  
ElderG: ……

Angel walks into the room, stunning them….

Bean: Angel!! He is leaving… what happened?
Angel: please leave the both of us. I want a private conversation…..
Bean: ……. Fine, go ahead with your darn privacy!! Don’t tell us anything!!!  Let’s go DD

Bean and DD walk out of the room, closing the door behind them, with confusion in their heads.

Angel: …. You have anything to tell me?
ElderG: You have seen enough to make a conclusion on what type of a Keeper I am.
Angel: …. I want to hear your says…
ElderG: Why? Isn’t that enough to show you what kind of person I am?
Angel: the ElderG I know is nothing of that sort!!
ElderG: You never knew me, Angel… at least you didn’t know me for who I am…
Angel: There must be a reason why you must kill Janice…. Why? Why did you do such a thing? What have she done to you???
ElderG: Nothing…. I am merely doing my task…
Angel: Merely? You do your Keeper’s order without question but you questioned my task??? You are lying to me!!!  
ElderG: And what exactly are you going to do about it?
Angel: I demand an answer!!  
ElderG: Who are you to demand anything from me?
Angel: *SLAP!!!* You… you ….. *starts crying*   I HATE YOU!!! I WILL REVENGE HER DEATH!!! I WILL!!! EVEN IF I HAVE TO TAKE YOUR LIFE MYSELF!!!  
And with that, Angel burst out of the room, leaving ElderG alone in the room.

ElderG’s face was still in pain from the slap…. But it was his heart that feels the full impact of the slap…… Angel’s words echoes in his head, non-stop, reminding him of each and every word she had said to him…. making his pain even more unbearable…

Revenge? ….ha …ha… ha…aahahhahahhahhhhahahhahhahahah!!!* Feelings of regret were so over-whelming in his heart, ElderG could just burst into a million on pieces at that very moment. Never did he thought he would feel that bad from the words of Angel… the feeling were complicated, mixed, with many different kind of emotions at once, confusion, betrayal, secrecy, … love …….. love……….at last he could not denied the existence of the feeling within him… a feeling he should not develop at all…… a forbidden love….all the memories of his life in the past few weeks suddenly come in clear view in his head, every second of it…..especially the time he spent with Angel in the forest….. the image of them kissing replaying continuously in his head…… He merely stands there the whole day….. not knowing whether he had took the right path or has he just done the biggest mistake in his life…… with all the flashback replaying in his head….. over and over again, feeding him slowly and painfully of the freedom that he had once longed for but unreachable… he had his chance…. But …..

@Bean walked with DD and thought about EG's reaction, DD's rambling about something, but he didn’t hear them... he thought about himself being possessed.. they were the same...

DD: Hey you're listening to me??
Bean: Want the truth? NO
DD: Then what are you thinking about??
Bean: EG... and his similarities with me... Something not right in the head with him you know...
DD: *hand goes into his neck* Brr tell me about it
Bean: And something else... actually
DD: What??
Bean: Necrid... He's here and he is not alone...
DD: You certain??
Bean: Yep...
DD: So what are we doing now...
Bean: I want to settle this with him once and for all... the problem is who is with him, and where is he
DD: Oh OK... Can I help??
Bean: Now that is a weird question coming from you...
DD: Just kidding...

But Bean sensed something else coming from D... he was serious in asking that question... "This group is getting weirder and weirder..."

@In Heaven
Keif and Ariel were running away from the guards. Keif then pulled Ariel into a building to wait for the guards to run by.
Ariel : Ouch~! That hurt!
Keif : Sorry.. We had to take a sharp corner so....
Ariel : What's this all about anyway?
Keif : I don’t know... they've been chasing me for god knows what reason... *Ariel stares at him* Ok ok... A few days ago, after raising my voice against the superiors, I loitered around here for some time. I bumped into my "friend", a guard officer while heading towards the gates when I got bored. He walked towards me with a big grin on his face and given my history with him, I don’t think he's going to give me a farewell hug.  I gave him a slip and sneaked back down to earth.
Ariel : And how bout the part " They do not deserve our trust .......?"
Keif : *remembers the contents of the black envelope he got during his last visit here and the visit by agents when he met DD at the cave* Erm... uh.... they sent us on a trip without telling us everything right? Does that mean they trust us? *Ariel gives him another stare* Honestly!
: Oh Keif, is that you? *Keif turns around, then tries to drag Ariel to run again* Don’t worry, I wont expose you... Don’t you trust me?
Keif : Err... *looks at the lady in a doctor's uniform*heh heh.... Was just going to close the door, that's all.... What a coincidence to have met you here Cayte...
Cayte : Coincidence? You’re in the treatment hall and I work here. You call that coincidence?  *Keif gives off a forced smile*
Keif : *looks outside a window* Err... I really should get going.. Not going to bother you further... Ariel, let's go.
Cayte : What's the rush? I've already explained that you were with me during the incident. You’re off the hook.
Keif : What incident?
Cayte : You ran but you didn’t know what you were running for? Typical of you, Keif. You dropped by this hall a few days ago, about the time they reported the loss of the Heaven's logbook. The guards were just going to ask you some questions about your whereabouts to establish the suspects. Since you were with me, you couldn’t have done that right? And furthermore, they've found it. Apparently the secretary misplaced it and panicked.
Keif : Oh.. so that's why... (remembers himself having a meal with his friends a few days before. After his friends left, he noticed Cayte walking by and in a futile effort to avoid being noticed by Cayte, Cayte uninvitingly joined him for the remainder of his meal. Later on, Cayte had an unexpected patient to attend to and left.)*Ariel gives him a cold stare. Keif drops a sweat*
Cayte : Anyway, you said your friend was Ariel right? Aren't you the watcher under Keif that survived the demon attacks some time ago? *Ariel nods* Want to have a check up?
Ariel : erm... (Despite Keif hinting to her not to accept it) ok....
Cayte : How bout you Keif?
Keif : I'm just fine, thank you. *Cayte walks over to Keif and raises his right hand*
Cayte : And what do you call that? (Keif's hand is smoldering in a dark flame.)
Keif :  (stares for a while) Erm... now that you mention it..... PUT IT OFF!!! *runs around like a maniac. Cayte looks on with amusement while Ariel's jaw has dropped. Cayte eventually puts it off with a spell* Thank you. *a sigh of relief*
Cayte : hmm.... Dark flames.... Been fighting some powerful minions recently? *Kief thinks a while and says nope. When Cayte turns and guide Ariel to her examination room, he remembers sticking his right hand into the black sphere to rescue a gang leader that DD was fighting back in Sirroth*
Keif : Could it be..... Nah.... he doesn’t have that power..... *thinks for a while* but it's not impossible.... Wait, how did he create the black sphere then? *thinks for a while more* Maybe the gang leader created it... but he's doesn’t look capable... What does that mean?  
Cayte : Want to have a cup of tea in my office? *Keif looks at her, shakes his head* There'll be 3 of us there. Nothing funny would happen.  Your hand needs some treatment too right?  *Keif sees that but hesitantly accepts. They all move inside and she starts examining Ariel in another smaller room*
Cayte : hmm.. You really took a beating back there. How did you get out alive?
Ariel : I found a human. (remembers the day she met DD) He helped me buy some time before I could strike back, then he agreed to let me merge with him till I recover. I've been hitching on him ever since.  
Cayte : A human eh? Well, I can’t say I condone it..... You're almost recovered, but I still recommend you stick with the human for a little longer. You should be fine by the time you need to make another scheduled report to Keif. After that you should leave the human. Let him go on with his fate. *Ariel unwillingly nods* Ok then, help yourself to some tea. *leads Ariel out of the room and drags a hesitant Keif into the room*
Keif : I thought you said we 3 would be together?
Cayte : So? I'm no angel. I lied.   *Ariel, at the outside, could hear Keif moaning loudly. Dirty thoughts ran through her mind and a she felt a shiver down her spine. Later Keif emerged from the room half naked (shirt off), his hand treated but looking dazed*
Ariel : What happened?
Keif : I knew I shouldn’t have come here...... She likes to "play" with me... even when I'm injured.....  *sees Ariel's expression*  NO, that's not what you think! She just likes to experiment with me whenever I drop by! *Shows some needle marks on his hand. Ariel =  *
Cayte : Keif~ I'm not done with you yet..... (Keif =  . But just then, a spirit is led into the room and handed to Cayte)
: Aren't you one of Angel's mates? I saw you guys in Sirroth. (Keif and Ariel look back and nod) Thank god... I'm Janice. I didn’t have time to tell Angel this so could you please tell her...... *The 2 seraphim covered her mouth*
1 of the seraphim : We warn you 2, do not interfere with the human's fate. You know what happens next, especially you, Ariel. Do not interfere. *they drag the spirit into the examination room and close the door.*
Keif : *confused* Let's just leave this place ok? I don’t want to pick a fight with the seraphims. *they both leave. Cayte flashes an evil grin to Keif, telling him to drop by anytime. Keif hurriedly slams the door*
Ariel : The "observer" status of heaven...... Never interfere with human's fate with knowledge gained from heaven...... *remembers something sad*
Keif : You should go back to DD. Seems like someone died in Angel's arm.... I have some other things to do. You know where to find me.

Back in Sirroth
DD : Anyway, should we at least follow Angel? At least we'll know she's doing fine....
Bean : Go ahead. I don’t see ElderG going after her. She'd be more agitated anyway if he did. Since she has a pet, she'll likely be there. Go find Femara. Make sure she doesn't do something that she'll regret later.
DD : Why don’t you go after her? *Imagines an emotionally unstable Angel venting out her anger on him and shivers. ElderG on the other hand looks more composed but DD remembers the cut ElderG inflicted on him*
*In the end they both make an agreement and go their separate ways*

[Angel]

@After flying for... erm.. quite some time, I don't keep track of time you know.
Valvaris : There's Sirroth.
J.A : Great... I shall be there ..... *stared* Isn't that Elder Molemni?
Valvaris : *smile* A hologram, seems like he has something to tell you.

Valvaris fly me down and reverts to her original appearance.
Molemni : Good Evening, Jester.
J.A : Glad to see you here, Elder. I would like to know the reason you want me to be here.
Molemni : Seek a group of people.
J.A : A group of people?
Molemni : Yes, after the oracle and me saw through the Sphere of Fate, you are to assist them, positively in all sorts of way.
J.A : Where can I find them and who are they?
Molemni : Not known. From their appearance, it seems like there’s a Keeper and a Priestess.
J.A : *sweats* And how they're suppose to look like?
Molemni : Don't give me that look, young man. Hmm, you'll know right away when you see the Priestess. Hmm, okay, that's all for now, hope to hear good news from you, your fate of saving... the... *bzzzzzzz*
And the hologram vanishes..

J.A : He never make his statements clear.... ARGH...
Valvaris : Don't blame him, he is old...
J.A :  

J.A : Oh well, I'll have to find them anyhow...

Valvaris : And I shall return to the World of Element first.. see you again, Jest.

Valvaris transform into a green light and enters the ring.

J.A : Right.. now.. to search for the "group of people" ....

I enter the town just to find a lot of people in it.... *sweat*

J.A : This is really... bad........ lets find an Inn first....

-and So.. headed to search for an inn.-

@Angel runs out of the inn, heading towards the exit of the town... she continues running into the forest where Femara was resting, crying...

Angel:   why? why? why him? why not someone else? why??

*Why didn't he explain? He is hidding something.... why can't he just trust me once, just like how i trusted him? Is that so hard? Why must he always keep everything to himself? Why must he be the one who killed Janice and Malika? WHY??*

Those thoughts repeat themselves like a recorder inside her head, making her feels worst than ever. She had put all her trust towards him, thinking that he might be different from the Keepers she knew... but it looks like she had put her trust on the wrong person.. but somehow, somewhere in her heart, she knew ElderG has been trustable... at least... up till now.. up till the moment he killed Janice and Malika perhaps? Angel sensed something inside ElderG when she looks into his eyes just now, something deep, a feeling... a wish, his eyes were lonely, almost soulless, but that weird feeling she sensed... was it what she thought it was? Or maybe it was just her feeling a little sensitive...

the route towards Femara seems endless, forever....

*PANG!!!*

Angel: OUCH!! *felt her head burning in pain as she had just bang onto something....*
: Sorry, did I startle you, Angel?
Angel: ??huh?? *looks up in front of her* REIZ!!!

Reiz Zamaleon, tall, dark, with crimson hairs, gray eyes, dressed in wizards wear of green, embroided with the symbols of the Sorcerer's Guild, with a pair of matching gloves and boots. He carries no weapon, no staff whatsoever.

Reiz:  Hi, my dear? Having a bad time? Sorry if I hurt you.
Angel: nah... minor scratch, no problem. What were you wearing? I feels like I had just smashed onto some rocks  
Reiz: hahahaa, it was my chin, dear. If you would have been taller, we'll end up kissing instead.  
Angel: u never changed, didn't you?  
Reiz: hahaha, if I do, u won't be laughing now, right?
Angel: .........
Reiz: so, what happened?
Angel: It's a long story.....
Reiz: I have the time, fill me in  

Angel spent the whole day talking to Reiz....

@Bean thought more clearly after DD has left... he thought about lots of thing... than he bumped into someone strange... he was tall, he got some kind of blueish, greyish hair... some kind of words is inscribed on his forehead...

: Hey, good man could you direct me to the inn
Bean: No... But I can tell u where it is... Just go along this road...
: Okay thanks...

Bean sensed something moonish about him, but that doesn’t affect him from his problem... A Priestess, with enough power to launch a Grand End, a Keeper, with more than meets the eye... A man, with both angel and a demon on his side, and god knows what is his power limit... And now DD... with his seriousness in helping him... Then suddenly someone spoke into his mind...

Necrid: Thou have cometh to meet thy doom, Bean??

Bean stopped, and suddenly screamed in agony as something crushing his mind, crushing his soul, crushing everything that he is... Everyone stopped and looked towards him

Necrid: That is only the beginning... Come then if you wish to die so quickly...
: Heh, he is so pathetic...Why did the Staff choose him... Let's see now how he withstands THIS!!!

Another type of power crushing him, this time much greater... the pain and agony had made him wished that he would soon die... then just as suddenly... it stopped, as if it was startled by something...

Bean: Damnit, damnit... WHERE ARE YOU GODDAMIT?!!! SHOW URSELF GODDAMIT
Bean picked himself up, and staggered back towards the inn... through the curious onlookers...

Somewhere...

: Maybe I understand now, what is happening... Why he was chosen...
Necrid: Master??
: A mere human can’t withstand that, it takes a hell lot of magic to not to be destroyed by that spell... This is what the old man meant?? Wonder is the Light side has taken care of that old man... Necrid, destroy him, I don’t care how but do it... and don’t let him take the Staff... You may use it but be careful!!!
Necrid: Yes, my master...

@And Just this minute J.A bump into a guy that looked..... very sorcery, there's seems to be a hidden aura, but J.A couldn't sense it too clearly.

J.A : Hey, good man could you direct me to the inn
: No... But I can tell u where it is... Just go along this road...
J.A : Okay thanks...

And the guy just walked away, staring blankly into the sky.
J.A : *sweat* Strange.... really strange...

And he walked down the road.... and there stood the word "Inn" right in front of him. He walked into the inn, just to find no one else but the receptionist there.

J.A : Can I have a room please?
Receptor. : Sure, its 15 zees per night.
J.A : *thought* Phew, thank god Elder gave me 500 zees before I left Kuishka. *say* okay, I'm here for the night, here's 15 zees.

-Handed 15 zees from the pocket to her -

Receptor. : Thank you. Your room is Room Number 25, up the stairs, take a left turn and the fifth room on your right. Here's the key.
J.A : Thank you.

-Took the key-
J.A walked up the stairs and entered his room. He went to the balcony and opened the window, and there came a scream from the guy that he bumped into.

: Damnit, damnit... WHERE ARE YOU GODDAMIT?!!! SHOW URSELF GODDAMIT

Curious, but don't want to get into any trouble b4 he finds the "group of people", J.A walked backed into his room and close the sliding glass door.

J.A : I could have some food down there I suppose...

And so, J.A locked his room and went down for some food.... just as he reached the last step of the staircase.......

@Love.

An emotion that was alien to my heart yet it’s meaning was firmly etched in my mind. It’s strange that all your life you’ve learned what it is yet you fail to recognize it when the signs were so obvious. Now her slap felt a hundred times worst. What was I doing? Regret? What was I regretting? For performing my duty? For doing something which I have been doing for my entire life? Maybe, but I don’t know. Right now, my greatest regret is letting Angel leave… and here I was mopping around, not doing anything about it.

ElderG: I shouldn’t have- *falls to the floor clutching my right arm*
ElderG: ‘Damn! I’m being consumed! Must… strengthen… will…’ *pain subsides*

That has never happen before. I know the feeling, having mildly experiencing it 14 years ago, but now? I had never seen someone being consumed before, but the stories I heard are frightening enough. Unfortunately, my mind was somewhere else, so the reason never came to light until later. Right now, I had to find Angel… to say what needs to be said and to do what needs to be done.

~*~

: Where is he? I can’t find his locus.
??: Keep trying. Trev said he was still in Sirroth when he left… that is, if he remembered correctly. Said he was still suffering from a hangover…
: Damn… lucky bastard. Say, can we stop over Sirroth to fill the tankards with ‘juice’? I’m sure the rest won’t mind. *wink*
??: Yeh, I would love some too but I’m already behind schedule, and mother would fry me if I were late again. Besides, with that crowd, the place will stink.
: Come on! What happened to Grace the Bitch who would jump to any opportunity for a bottle of rum?
Grace: *grin* Still am and proud of it. Oh, by the way Harun, aunt say’s she’ll roast you too if I’m late. Gives you something to think about, eh?
Harun: *fist clutched* That woman…
Grace: Hey hey we’re passing Sirroth now you moron. Find him and tell him the news.
Harun: Righhhttt… *whisper* bitch…
Grace: Thank you *smiles*

~*~

I was about to initiate a transportation spell when I heard it.

*voice in head*
Harun: Yo Elder my man! What's up?
ElderG: Lose the accent Harun. What do you want? Be warned, I’m not in a good mood now…
Harun: Oh oh touchy… don’t kill the messenger alright?
ElderG: I’ll do whatever I please. Just get on with it.
Harun: Fine. Three words: get home.
ElderG: That’s two assbrain.
Harun: Oh, you’ll love the third one… *silence* …NOW!!
ElderG: *head ringing* Shout again and you’ll just have to learn sign language…
Harun: Just try. But just warning you, my throat doesn’t come easy.
ElderG: Wouldn’t be worth my energy if it were.
Harun: Hey, just wondering… about your Task… do you know… just how amazing it is?
ElderG: … I don’t get you.
Harun: Hell! Have you forgotten your Arerunic? Do you know who Keel is? Ah crap… got to cut the link. And your little sis says shut up… oh that was for me?
*end*

Arerunic is our local tongue, the language of our ancestors, a relic from a time before the War of Destiny. Comprising of 24 runes of Words, 6 runes of Planes and 5 runes of Life, the language is a complex one and would take a normal person tens of years to master… if he can find someone to teach him. To me, Arerunic is a breeze. I’m just wondering what Harun… meant…

Then it hit me. It hit me real hard. I feel to the floor once again laughing and smiling all the way. Now, past events were starting to make sense; perfect sense. I could see the reason I was given this Task, as well as the Convents secrecy about it. I could also see the reason behind the destruction of Matherauimme and the impossibility of Keel’s power. Also, I knew perfectly why Arial was so shocked to see Keel, although she doesn’t seem know who he truly is unlike the old man; she was hunting him down, just like we were. Apparently, she’s having some second thoughts, but it doesn’t concern me now. It just became my priority to return home, quickly.

However, lingering thoughts of Angel interfered with my logic reasoning. I struggled with myself in an effort to put my thoughts of Angel aside; I’m a professional and to us Keepers, duty comes first. However, I knew within me, Angel would be my top priority no matter what. Time, I decided, would have to heal her before I could.

And so, continuing from where I left off earlier, I muttered the spell and a portal resembling a tear in the fabric of reality was created. When it disappeared, I was standing on rocky terrain overlooking a vast desert ocean that seems endless. Welcome to the Great Nagrej Sandland. Behind me stood a wall of snow peaked mountains; the Sigarah Range. With only one direction to go, to took that first step into the sand land. No turning back now…

---------------------------

@Bean staggered back into the inn, and went to the bartender

Bean: Give me the strongest you got!!
Bartender: Ok... (gave him a cup of something)
Bean: THE WHOLE CASK GODDAMIT!!!
Bartender: Alright alright... chill man!! (gave him a small cask)
Bean: THAT'S THE BIGGEST U GOT (bartender nods) DAMMIT!!! GIMME THAT!!!

Bean began to drink from the cask... After a while, he finished it... and asked for another... He got it, paid the bartender, and began to climb up the stairs, but there he saw the guy who asked the way to the inn...the moonish guy

Bean: Watch you looking at??
: U drunk?? That stuff looks pretty strong...
Bean: HELL NO!!! I'M HURTING LIKE HELL HERE SO HOW COULD I GET DRUNK!!!
: U look pretty uneasy on your feet tho...
Bean: AND?!! DOES IT MATTERS YOU!!!
: No, but I prefer a little quiet tonight
Bean: PITY THAT THEN!!! NOW GET OUT OF THE WAY!!!

The moon guy got out of his way and Bean climbed up the stairs... he locked himself in his room, and began draining the cask... after a while the pain subsided, and his brain gets a little foggy... he tried all of his might to keep his brains clear, and tried to pinpoint the source of the power he just felt... suddenly

Devanna: U know... Maybe u r the next Dark Sorcerer, but u don’t have to strut around declaring it u know

Bean turned, felt his concentration losing... and then fainted

Devanna: Oh God, how many times has he fainted already??

@Night is approaching by the time Angel finished her story. Her eyes were wet from the tears she shed when recalling the painful moment of the Janice’s death and ElderG’s betrayal. Reiz, not knowing how to calm her down, pull her close to him, lending her comfort and support.

Reiz: *If I know this will happened, I would not have left you to journey alone. How much pain your sadness brought to my heart. How much guilt I felt from the wound you had sustained. How could I ever have the will to leave you behind? But it doesn’t matters anymore, for I am now here to protect you, to shield you from harms and most importantly, to heal your wounded heart. *
Angel: …… Reiz, thanks for the support… I am okay now… *wiping her tears with her hand*
Reiz: You don’t look any better to me… *wipes Angel’s tears with his hand* … I really regret leaving you alone… I…
Angel: … It’s never your fault. I never blame you for anything. How was your journey? Did you found ‘it’?
Reiz: … You are ever so kind-hearted… no wonder you keep getting hurt…
Angel: I am fine, really!!
Reiz: You know me very well, Angel. That look can’t fool me.
Angel: … Another reason why I hate wizards…
Reiz: Haahahahaha, so you hate me?
Angel: Nah… just a little annoyed. Can’t you just pretend that I fooled you?
Reiz: And risk getting my head smacked? Nope! *grin*

*SMACK*

Reiz: OUCH!!!
Angel: There goes your little head *evil grin*
Reiz: Hahahahhahaha!! I haven’t laughed this much ever since I journey alone…
Angel: … So, you found ‘it’?
Reiz: *smile* *took out a long package, wrap in golden silk* Yup! Almost turn myself into a roasted pig for this.
Angel: Really? Pity you didn’t, or I would have a decent meal now *evil grin*
Reiz: … You just can’t stop biting my head’s off, can’t you?
Angel: Heeeeeee
Reiz: … *sweat drops*
Angel: So, do I get to look at it or not?
Reiz: Yup, here you go. You are the first one to see it.
Angel: oooooooo… I am honored *starts unwrapping the golden silk*

Beneath the golden silk, it lay there serenely, releasing a strange aura from within it. The aura break the serenity it’s look’s bring, instead it gave a cold and hard piercing into the heart… just like its name… the legendary Wand of the Death or better known as Wraith’s Wand. The silver wand, encrusted with Cursed Black Rose Diamond, is a masterpiece, with great carvings depicting the God of the Death, Wraith.




Angel: So… this is the legendary Wraith’s Wand? It sure lives up to its name eh? I was expecting a black wand, but it is silver instead. The silver really brings out the darkness of the Black Diamond.
Reiz: Ya, it was covered in mud when I recovered it. Took me a few days to polish it.
Angel: Really? Why with the mud? I thought it was kept in the Frozen Throne?
Reiz: … My very own silly mistake. I dropped it into the mud pool when I was busy battling the darn dragons.
Angel: … =.=;; Clumsy as usual, eh?
Reiz: You try fighting 50++ dragons at once, clumsy!!
Angel: One nice Mystic Shower will do *grin*
Reiz: You think I am you? MUA is a WIZARD my dear!! I possessed NO holy power!!
Angel: Ah, I forgot! ^~^;; Well, you can still use your Meteorite, can’t you?
Reiz: …And destroy the whole Ancient ruin? Are you trying to set me up against those bunch of annoying Crusaders?
Angel: woops! You found out!
Reiz: … That’s it!! You are sooooo dead!!
Angel: And I suppose you are no longer interested with Wraith’s Wand? *Waves wand frantically to annoys Reiz*
Reiz: … You … You… EVIL!!!
Angel: ehehhhehehehehehe *evil grin* I WIN!!
Reiz: … grrrrrrrr… FINE!!! Now, can I have the wand back?
Angel: Nope, until I am clear you are not going to hit me with it *grin*
Reiz: I won’t. You know very well, don’t you?
Angel: … Oh well… Here you go
Reiz: Thanks. *Wrap the wand back*
Angel: Why wrap it back? Aren’t you going to use it?
Reiz: Nope, I need to find a guy to unseal the magic barrier on it before it can be used.
Angel: Who? Maybe I can help.
Reiz: Yup, you knew him. Remember Articulus?
Angel: Him? Why him? I don’t remember Art can do unsealing?
Reiz: His family spell is the spell used to guard this wand. So, I need his family member to dispel it.
Angel: Oh, well come to think about it, his family is one of the ancient noble blood right?
Reiz: Ehem.
Angel: Okay, we’ll go find Art, and then I need to resume my very own task…
Reiz: Good, we can have Art along, since he has been complaining in his letters than he looks no better than rotten vampire, he’ll be happy!!
Angel: Great, he’ll be a great help. I miss his poisonous words *grin*
Reiz: HAHAHAHHAHAHHA!!!
Angel: So, you know where he is now?
Reiz: As usual, Rutzengar, the famous Alchemy Land.
Angel: No wonder he is rotting. That place is sure boring to his usual standard.
Reiz: So, up to traveling yet?
Angel: I need to head back to the in, I still have a few companions. I better inform them first.
Reiz: Okay, up to you, My Lady.
Angel: Since when I am your lady?
Reiz: Since we first met?
Angel: … You and sweet talking…
Reiz: Heeeee.. To the inn then?
Angel: Yup!

@In Sirroth :
Somewhere, a group of thugs were gathered including the thief that snuck into Ariel's room and the thug that got bashed by DD. They decided to whack DD if they find him and also decided to grab ElderG and Angel for ransom from their respective affiliations based on information they got from threatening the innkeeper. They reasoned that people sent so far away must have significance to their respective affiliations and thus should be able to demand more ransom. After a while, they started heading towards the inn.

In the bushes somewhere close to Ariel's place, DD was eavesdropping.
DD : *Wakes up* Huh? I fell asleep? ....*Looks around* They're still at it? *yawn* I think they should be fine. Ok, better head back to a comfy bed in the inn then. *yawn*

On the way back to the inn, DD noticed the townspeople were moving hurriedly in the opposite direction and locking their doors. Curious, he stopped someone and asked. The reply was " They're coming! " before the person started to run again, leaving DD with questions in his head. Getting closer to the inn, he heard someone say "Is that the one? What a sorry looking soul.". Then a reply came : "Yes, he is" DD recognized it as Necrid's voice and looked worried. In his head, he thought "Crap! They caught me at the wrong moment! Ariel's not even back yet." Then, the voice came again "Let's try this". DD felt something bad was going to happen and just as he was backing off, he heard shouts of "He's the one! Get him!" He looked behind, and saw a group of thugs closing in on him. Then, Necrid spoke "Wait. We don’t need to do anything. Let's just watch. We already had fun with the other earlier on. “Then, there was a lull of silence from them. DD faced up to the thugs, and gave a brave face. "I just defeated your leader and whooped a bunch of you earlier on right? Want more?" as he remembered waking up to the sight of the beaten thugs earlier on, without knowing who beat them. " We know. That's why.......... GET HIM!!!!!!!" replied the thugs. A whole horde of them started chasing DD. DD, with a sweat drop, "That obviously didn’t work." and started to run for his life. After a while, the horde passed by a thrash can. After they passed, DD sticked his head out of it, and climbed out of it when the situation was clear. As he was cleaning himself up, a thug walks past him and identified him. Before the thug could attract more attention, DD grabbed the thrash can and forcefully smashed it onto the thug before running away, heading back to the inn. Necrid was heard saying "So much for a battle test. I don’t think it's worth the effort. Let's leave." Outside the inn, DD stopped. He saw the inn was surrounded by another group of thugs, with one shouting " Hey, Keeper and Priestess! Come out here quietly and we'll not hurt you. We just want cash! If you don’t, then I think we'll have to tear this place up to find you!" accompanied by the shouts of approval by the others. DD jumped into bushes nearby and continued to watch it. "ElderG and Bean should be able to handle it I guess......... Wait, did Necrid just say "the other" earlier on? That means Bean has been fighting them?........... I better get Angel." DD then sneaks away.

In heaven
Cayte was seen inspecting Janice. The male seraphim already left the room due to obvious reasons. Cayte, sensing something, started to question Janice about what happened back in Sirroth. The female seraphim was to object, but Cayte replied it'd help her examination if she knew what happened back there. The seraphim unwillingly agreed and Janice, looking confused, started retelling the events. At the end, Cayte asked the seraphim what good would Janice do to heaven since she's slated to go through the processes to be part of Heaven's officials after looking at the information chart given by the seraphim. The seraphim answered "She'll be useful as a combat support officer with her healing powers. You know what's going on around here, have you not noticed? And furthermore, are you done? This is taking way longer than the usual examinations." Cayte then finished up the examinations and let Janice follow the seraphim out after reassuring Janice that it's alright, that death is just a follow up on life and part of her fate. Janice seemed to brighten up a little after Cayte whispered "They'll know" into her ears. After they left, Cayte moved to the window and said " You'll have to repay double next time.........Keif". Outside the window, Keif was shocked.
Keif : How did you know I was here?
Cayte : Just call it a sixth sense. And you know, the true objective of hiding is to not be discovered. I saw a part of your hair by the window.
Keif : *freezes*eehh...heh... So you played them all to your hand just now?
Cayte : *smiles* I knew you wanted to know and wouldn’t give up that easy right? I'll put that on your tab of favours.
Keif : Nooooooooooooo~! *runs away to the sound of Cayte's laughter*

Ariel who was approaching the gates to head back down to Sirroth was called upon by a guy and followed after the person while trying to hide her sadness.

@Angel was busy packing with the help from Reiz when she heard people shouting for her and ElderG. Having no idea what is going on, she plans to go take a look at the idiot who shouted rudely for her.

Reiz: Wait! Angel, something is not right. If they’re looking for you, shouldn’t they at least know your name?
Angel: I know that. But I don’t want them to shout the hell out of everyone either. So I am going to see what they want from me.
Reiz: I am coming with you.
Angel: Good. Thanks.

They both headed downstairs to find that the inn was full of a bunch thug, one of them holding the innkeeper, threatening him. The inn were a mess, tables and chairs broken, pieces of shattered china and vases were everywhere on the floor.

Angel: What is going on?
: AHA!!  There they are. *looks at Angel and Reiz* Wait!! That’s not the Keeper!! Who the hell are you??
Reiz: Don’t your mother teach you manners?  
: WHAT? How dare you talk to me like that?  
Reiz: Why not? Who do you think you are, anyway? Some great leader of the century?  
: grrr….. you’ll pay for this!! ATTACK HIM!!  

Immediately, tens of the thugs came launching toward Reiz, each ready with weapons to strike. Reiz, stood there stationary, merely smiling at the approaching thugs. The entire thugs lung toward Reiz at once, attacking him at the same time. They quickly surrounded Reiz. Almost immediately, all the thugs were sent flying backwards, hitting their teammates or the floor and wall of the inn, hard on their back. Reiz was still standing at the same place, smiling. A barrier in golden rays – Ray Barrier, surrounded his body.

Reiz: Ha, is that all you have?
: … Who are you?  
Reiz: Reiz Zamaleon
:  WHAT??? REIZ ZAMALEON?  The… the… Shadow Warlock?
Reiz: Ah, I am well known, am I? *looks at Angel*  
Angel:  
: … RETREAT!!! We cannot win with him here… ALL RETREAT!!

Suddenly the door opens with a loud crack!!!

DD: ANGEL!!!
Angel: Yes, DD dear?
DD: HUAH!!!  You.. you almost scare him off my skins!!
Angel: Was it my fault that you coming banging in without looking, shouting my name on top of your lungs?
DD: … nevermind, thugs!! They are all around the place looking for… *looks around at the thugs*  WHOA!! WHAT”S GOING ON???
Angel: … You sure are slow, aren’t you? Isn’t it obvious we’re fighting here?
DD: … I… I didn’t notice them…  
: We will have our revenge!! *and all the thugs disappeared*
Reiz: Ceh! Revenge, my ass!! Like they can do anything without sneaking behind you and backstab you first hand.
Angel: You just can’t stop using those dirty words, can’t you?
Reiz: Huh? Dirty? Those were the most expressive words I have ever come along in my life!  
Angel & DD: … *sweat drops*  

From upstairs

Bean: huaaaaaaa, *sleepy* What’s going on?
All: … *mega sweats drop*  
Angel: You are still sleeping?  
Bean: Yeah, uaaaaaaahhhhh, why?
DD: …nevermind  
Reiz: Amazing guy, you can still sleep in such a situation. I shall salute you. *bows*
Bean: And who the freaking hell are you?
Reiz: Freaking hell? HA!!!
Bean: WHAT??
Angel: He is Reiz Zamaleon, my childhood friend.
Bean: … Reiz Zamaleon, the Shadow Warlock?  
Reiz: That’s me.
DD: Who?
All: …  
DD: What? I really have no idea, I am just a commoner!!  
Bean: Even farmer at my hometown knew who he is.  
DD: … and?
Angel: You are hopelessly clueless!!!  
Reiz: This is the first time someone do not recognize me after I told them my name… Looks like I am not famous enough, eh?  
*SMACK!!*
Angel: Enough of that ler!!  

_____________________________________________

@walked down the stairs.. and couldn't help it but to stare at a guy.. with aura I cannot sense... the one I asked for directions.... drunk...

: What are you looking at??
J.A: U drunk?? That stuff looks pretty strong...
: HELL NO!!! I'M HURTING LIKE HELL HERE SO HOW COULD I GET DRUNK!!!
J.A: You look pretty uneasy on your feet tho...
: AND?!! DOES IT MATTERS YOU!!!
J.A: No, but I prefer a little quiet tonight
: PITY THAT THEN!!! NOW GET OUT OF THE WAY!!!

I moved out.. and man.. that smell of beer made me lost my appetite...
I walked backs upstairs and started heading towards my room. I opened the door, walked in, close the door, and then there came some shouting.
Something about Priestess and Keeper.

"Priestess and Keeper? Just what I'm looking for.."

I walked out of the room and saw this girl.. and another guy.... downstairs.
"The guy... could he be the keeper?"
And then, they talked.

Guy: Ha, is that all you have?
: … Who are you?
Guy: Reiz Zamaleon
: WHAT??? REIZ ZAMALEON? The… the… Shadow Warlock?
Reiz: Ah, I am well known, am I? *looks at Angel*
Angel:
: … RETREAT!!! We cannot win with him here… ALL RETREAT!!

J.A : Shadow Warlock? That isn't what I need.. but that girl.. she looked... holy...

I walked down slowly and saw another guy came in... I rushed down and hid behind a wall.
They talked (refer Angel) and the drunken man, came out from upstairs.
And exclaimed that he don't know what happened. They started talking and fooling around (=P).

J.A :(thought) Are they the 'group of people'? Or what? Man.. Should I go out?....

Suddenly, I sensed someone feeling for my aura....
J.A : There is no need to do so.

I revealed myself and found that everyone had put their eyes on me.

J.A : I am right here.

@Reiz: So, kitty cat, enough of your little hiding?
J.A: I am not hiding. Just observing.
Bean: Hey, he is the busy body who cannot stop annoying me up-stairs
Angel: Really? Who are you?
J.A: Jester Annueldo (J.A). I am here on a mission to protect you, Ms Priestess *bows*
Angel: Ms Priestess? The name is Angel Louisnere, mister! Protect me? You don't even know my name.
J.A: I am not informed. I was merely told to look for a Priestess and a Keeper. I found you, right?
Angel: You sure? There's no Keeper here.
J.A: Him? *points at Reiz*
Reiz: ME? What kind of insult is this?
J.A: Huh? You are not a Keeper?
Reiz: I AM A WARLOCK!!! Keeper? MY ASS!!!
Angel: ... *smack* Stop the darn language, will ya?
DD: What's going on??  

@J.A : Didn’t you listen? As I just said, I'm supposed to be here to protect the priestess, a keeper and a group of who knows what people. Must be pretty weak people if you ask me.
DD : Weak people?  
Angel : Are you saying that I'm weak then?  
J.A : If you need protection then your weak right?
Reiz : And I suppose your strong and mighty then?
J.A : At least stronger than you. *intentionally ticking Reiz off*
Both of them unintentionally in sync: You want to fight?! *stares at each other ..... then both draw their weapons. They were surprised as they were both thinking alike*
DD : Calm down... Let's talk this over ok? There's no need to resort to violence since you guys think alike.*sets a table and chairs for both of them.*
Both of them : Me? Similar to HIM? *both steps on their chair with 1 leg* Stop following my every move!
DD : Would you 2 PLEASE calm down?
Both of them : MIND YOUR OWN BUSINESS! Don’t stick your nose where it doesn’t belong! *DD has a storm cloud over his head. DD gives up trying to calm them down. They then both argue for a while more*
Angel : WHAT IS WRONG with you 2?! Can't you guys stop and reason for a change?
Both of them : STAY OUT OF THIS LADY! THIS IS A MAN-TO-MAN PROBLEM! *Angel was stunned by what they said. They both continue arguing and started a fistfight. The wooden structure of the inn became a nice target for missed punches and flying bodies, fracturing on any impact*
DD : *Gets the innkeeper and Bean* Let them solve this themselves, even if they have to beat some sense into each other. *moves outside the inn. The sound of cracking furniture and broken objects could still be heard from outside the inn. Then, there was a lull in the noise*
Bean : They've calmed down?
DD : God knows.  
Inside, the 2 were locked in a grapple. Then J.A freed himself, accidentally knocking a flower vase filled with water towards Angel in the process. The water from the vase soaks Angel as it flies over her head. Angel returns to reality and sees them still fighting. Burning to the core, she holds her fist up in front of her*
Angel : WOULD YOU 2 CUT THAT OUT?! *They look at her...... then fight again. Angel then starts casting a spell. As the spell gained power, the wooden structure of the lounge caved in due to movement of energy. The innkeeper, with his jaw dropped said : "My inn.......... ". DD and Bean shake their heads and sigh, saying : "Idiots". Later on, DD and Bean dug out Reiz, Angel and J.A from the rubble. As they dusted themselves, the innkeeper approached Reiz and J.A.
Innkeeper : The cost for the things you broke : *Insert calculation*..... Total is 5000 zees.
Both of them : WHAT?!  
Innkeeper : What else? Compensation for the things you broke.
Both of them : It's YOUR FAULT! *Point at each other* NOT mine! And YOURS TOO! *point at Angel*
Angel : My fault?! If you 2 idiots didn’t fight would this have happened?!
*3 of them start arguing again. Then J.A punched a beam that was still standing and the whole inn came crashing down. the innkeeper started calculating again and approaches the 3 of them*
Innkeeper : After revising, it'll cost you guys 30000 zees. You guys took down my whole inn.  
DD : You don’t look sad at losing your inn.
Innkeeper : Thanks to you guys, I get to open an inn somewhere ELSE away from this stupid town. Thugs come trash my place once in a while without compensation, warriors come crash at my inn without paying or get into fights after a few drinks. Let me tell you this, alcohol turns grown men into monkeys...... This is no place to make a profit.  *Everyone drops their jaw*
Innkeeper : So it'll be 10000 zees each for the 3 of you.
Angel : Fine. Not my cash anyway. I'll just call the Convent to reimburse you. *A messenger comes by*
Messenger : Are you Angel Louisnere? *Angel nods* I have a message from the Convent. The message says that you are only allocated 9000 zees for your entire journey. Spend it wisely. End of message.
Angel : WHAT?! *Angel looks at J.A and Reiz. J.A is busy counting the figure while Reiz tries to sneak away*

@*GRAB*

Angel: TRY IT AGAIN U WILL SUFFER!!!
Reiz: FINE!!! And I haven’t got that much of money!!!
Angel: Like I have!!  
J.A: I have plenty. I can pay for yours Ms Angel, as I am your protector, but, he *points at Reiz* he got to pay it himself.  
Angel: Ah, really?  You r paying for me? Thanks a lot. Now, how much do you have?
J.A: A few hundreds Mi. Why?  
Angel: Good! Borrow me 10k.
J.A: Huh? Why?
Angel: Just borrow me. I’ll pay you once I get my money, okay  
J.A: … Fine. Here.. *hands Angel the money*
Angel: Thanks. Here, use this, pay your part.
Reiz: You are the best, Angel dear!!!
J.A: ….grrrrr *pays the innkeeper the remaining 20k*
Angel: aww, come on, cut it put will ya? You two are teammates now.
Reiz: …apologize for calling me a Keeper.
J.A: Hey, it was a mistake, I have never seen a Keeper, so I thought you were one since you are with her.
Reiz: Don't tells me you have never seen a warlock?
J.A: Actually, ya, never. How many warlock is there to be seen?
Reiz: … 3, and 1 of them is me.
J.A: With that rarity, you can blame me for not being able to recognize you?
Reiz: …
Angel: Topic Closed!!! No more argument on this topic or I’ll both of you grilled!!!
J.A: Fine by me.
Reiz: … whatever…
Bean: So, now what?
Angel: I still need to get my stuff, I believe you all too?
DD: yeah, and we need to buy our food supplies, medicines, potions and stuff.
Angel: Go buy it then.
DD: What? Me?
Angel: Since you suggested it, of course you buy.
DD: WHAT??? That’s not fair, I am not the only one using those stuff!!
Angel: Let’s see, YOU finish all my potions, medicine and HALF the meat I brought from the King’s City. So, that’s fair?
DD: No!! I did not!! The others use the potions and medicine too!!
Angel: Let’s see, Bean use 1 Ultra Potion, EG use 2 Mega Potion, Bean use 3 Ether and 1 Mega Potion, YOU use up all the rest!!!
DD: What about you??
Angel: ME?? I BOUGHT THOSE BLOODY POTIONS WITH MY MONEY!!! MY MONEY!!! YOU HEAR ME??? MY MONEY!!! And I only used one Ether.
Bean: Hahahaa, well, DD, you did use up the entire supplies, you know. You should but it this time.

@DD : But.... but......
As DD was thinking what to make of the situation he was in, a person stepped forward from the crowd that slowly gathered due to the commotion at the inn while clapping his hands. The person identified himself as Chris, the mayor of the town.
Chris : Well done, my friends. I am Chris, the mayor of the town, and I must commend you all for going against the thugs that have held our town. On behalf of the townspeople, thank you. *The whole gang gave off a smile* Now, I just heard you need supplies for your journey. Since you helped us chase the thugs away, you can have their portion of "contributions" *The townspeople were holding food, medicine etc*, or so they call it. It was almost time for them to collect their monthly tax from us. *DD sticks his tongue out at Angel* And it would be an honour if you all could follow me to my residence for a meal. That's the least I can do.
DD : We can't turn them down, right?
Bean : I know what your thinking. Free "human" food right?  (DD =  )
Angel : *gentle* It would be our pleasure as well, Mr. Mayor. *DD, Bean and Reiz huddle together and whisper*
DD : Hey, she's never this polite right?
Bean : It's so...... unlike her... She's so...... what's the word? Feminine? I thought I’d never use that word with her name in the same sentence.  
Reiz : Tell me about it. *All of them stare at Angel. Angel then stares back with a scary look in her eyes  *
Chris : *clasps his hand in front of him* Very well then. Please follow me, miss......
Angel : Angel Louisnere of the Convent. Nice to met you.  
Bean : Just call me Bean.
DD : Daniel Delores. Nice to met you too. *Shakes hands with the mayor*
Reiz : Reiz, a warlock.
J.A : Jester Annueldo, or J.A in short. *Reiz thinks aloud, "J.A? Sounds more like the abbreviation of JackAss" to the displeasure of Jester* You still haven't had enough? *Cracks his knuckles*
Reiz : Bring it on.  *Angel walks in between both of them, and knocks their head from above and talks to Chris*
Angel : Eh... hahah... Please excuse them. They've haven't met each other in a long time. *Both J.A and Reiz are seen in the background, holding the bump on their head,  while accusing each other for bringing that upon them. Angel looks at them again, and they both shut up*
Chris : ...........I understand. Well, come this way. *They all head towards the mayor's residence to have a meal, or should I say a feast in the mayor's huge mansion*

Later on, Chris tells Bean, Reiz, Angel and J.A to follow his servants to their rooms for the night. He however, tells DD to follow him for a while. DD agrees. Chris leads DD to a spacious bedroom, and leaves for a moment. DD walks around, admiring the furniture and everything in the room.
DD : Wah...... This really is comfortable. Wonder what rooms did the other's get?
Chris : They'll be sleeping in the servant's quarters.
DD : Oh, didn’t notice you coming back in. And wait, did I just hear you say the others are staying in the servant's quarters?
Chris : Yes, I did. *DD asks why and Chris replies that he had been watching DD fight thugs alone in the city some time back. He was impressed at how DD beat them all up. DD only remembers getting beaten up by the thugs before passing out but nods anyway. Then Chris explains he received news that Bean was seen screaming and moving abnormally in the town. (Bean was whacked by Necrid and his master with spells at that time, but they didn’t reveal themselves to the public), so as a precaution he couldn’t let a nutcase stay in his main residence. DD started laughing. Then on the subject of Angel, Reiz and J.A, Chris replied that he couldn’t risk them destroying his mansion for obvious reasons. DD laughed his heart out.*
DD : So I'm the only normal guy eh?  
Chris : That's not the only thing. *Moves closer towards DD. DD =  *

Elsewhere, Angel, Bean, Reiz and J.A were staring with disbelief at their rooms. The servants brought their belongings into their rooms and tell them to come over to the neighboring rooms if they had any questions. The servant's rooms were beside theirs.

In Heaven
Ariel followed someone she met before coming back down to Sirroth
: Ariel, why are you so sad? What is it about me that make you sad every time you meet me?
Ariel : .... err.. huh? Sorry.. I wasn't listening....
: Why do you get sad whenever you meet me? I've always seen you being happy in the company of others.
Ariel : ..............
: If you don’t want to tell me it's still ok. Cheer up ok? *pats Ariel on her shoulder*
Ariel : ....You remind me of someone I know Graye. He erm.....died some time ago. *looks away*
Graye : I see...... Try to cheer up ok? I can never replace him but I think he'd not want to see you being burdened by his departure.  
Ariel : If you say so..... *Wipes away some tears*
Graye : Anyway, why don’t you come over to my place? I've got something to pass to you. You could wash up too.
Ariel : Ok then.. *They both walk away*

Elsewhere, Keif entered a library to think over whatever he knows about the current situation.

@J.A : Very nice, NOW, we're in the Servant’s ROOM?!? It’s your entire fault Reiz!
Reiz : What? ME?? I didn't do anything, mister, now look who's the one talking!
Angel : Stop it you two, do it one more time, and both of u will get beheaded! Get me?! *then she lift her hand and sliced it horizontally right in front of her throat*
Reiz & J.A : Sure.... *looked somewhere else while swallowing a small drop of saliva*

J.A : By the way.... if.... you ain't the keeper... (pointing at Reiz) Who is?
Angel : ...
Reiz : He is.......
Angel : Reiz! Erm, clean up the room will ya, its so horrible here. AS for your question, J.A. Erm.. wait till you see him and you ask him okay?

*Angel walked away to... 'clean up' the room....*

J.A :   Man, I don't get a thing she just said. Do you?

*looked to Bean, and found that he is lying on the floor, snoring*

J.A : THIS is the bunch of people Elder Molemni said? Oh god, I'm desperately... disappointed.

Then, J.A walked to his 'bed', lie down, and shut his eyes closed. He took a peek at Reiz and Angel, and found them sound asleep on their own 'beds'.

Suddenly, footsteps were heard. J.A opened his eyes, and saw Reiz, Angel, and Bean still sound asleep.

J.A : Who could it be..? *The footsteps came nearer and nearer, but then, it stopped. Nothing was heard then, nothing was seen either. *
J.A : *Shiver* Man I hate these nights, creepy sounds.... Only the moon could be good.

J.A opened the window just to see a full moon at the dark sky. "Lovely.." He climb up the window, and held out his left hand, exposing his Ring of Wind Guardian, and it flashes Green.

J.A : *whispering* Valvaris, send me down to the land below!

A gust of wind came out from the ring and surrounds J.A, he dived down the window and made a somersault in the air, he landed on the "wind" right below his feet. The wind disappears and J.A stood there, leaning to a wall, looking at the moon, and then, closed his eyes. The body starts to flash a slight yellow light and hover 2 inches above the land.

- Note : This is the Light Meditation, to increase the Moon Power in Jester Annueldo's body for further use. Can only be done during full moon. Once there's another life form that seems to endanger him appear, the Light Meditation sense it and stops automatically. -

Then......

@After JA done his stuff, Bean stood up and went to the window, and saw JA hovering 2in above the land... then remembered he needs to go to the toilet. On the way he saw Reiz and Angel close to each other. During his 'business' he thought about them... Warlock, moonish guy is now into the fray... Bean wondered how many special guys it took to do whatever it is...

After his 'business', Bean continued watching JA, and wondered what the hell is he doing... Then suddenly...

Devanna: Light Meditation...
Bean: Heh, so it is you... I thought I’m hallucinating or something back there... Could you do me a favor?? Please don’t pop out like that anymore, it is bad for me heart
Devanna: Cant promise you then...
Bean: *sighs* so light meditation ka? He is indeed moonish... Another interesting guy joining in. 2 actually
Devanna: Complicated isn’t it?
Bean: Yep, I don’t know what should I do, or whom should I trust right now... The Keeper disappeared like that...
Devanna: You know what you must do first right?
Bean: Yep, and he's here... it seems he is not alone
Devanna: Wonder who... Want me to check it out?
Bean: In a moment... Why are you here? Where’s Karthok
Devanna face took a sad turn suddenly...
Bean: Hmm, your secret your choice... Find out whom he's serving ok?? And please don’t pop out like that again, please...
Devanna: Heh, like I said, I cant promise u that...

A whoosh and suddenly she was gone... A shadow, it looks like Devanna has find somewhere to hide... Bean continued watching JA doing his meditation... and thinking about trying out his power...

A wave of darkness suddenly covered the shining JA, and in that same moment, JA broke through the dark aura, ready for battle... Then, he heard Bean's voice coming from his behind...

Bean: Hold your horses, moon guy. I don’t mean you any harm... Now I know how strong are you...

JA turned but no one is there, he looked up and he saw nothing...

In the room, Bean was already lying down, pretending to sleep with his snoring, but in his mind he already worked out something out... That the moon guy is not a guy to be messed with...

[Angel]

@The egg was done in no time. Only problem was… its edges were turning into a deep color of black, which prompted me to quickly transfer it into a plate from the pan. I then ate it, sizzling or not. Flame? What flame? Its high noon and surface temperature is… just less than 60 degrees… Celsius. Quite a cold day if you ask me; this place has recorded temperatures of 80 above and the average a day is within a 60 to 70 range; a fitting description for Hell’s Cauldron, the Great Nagraj Sandland.

For me, it’s just like another stroll in the park. Physically challenging as it is, I’ve crossed this place three times and had spend a collective total of a year and a half in this hellhole. Scorching temperatures? Dry environments? Been there, live through, still alive. I still had another day till I reach home, so without wasting anymore time I packed and took off. Also, in environments like this, it’s best if you keep moving… that is if you know where you are going.

A day later, in the misty cover of darkness (if you’re wandering why there is mist in the desert, read on), I gazed to the heavens with a small telescope I had brought with me. I scanned the blanketed sky, searching for the one star… one so bright it could be seen through the mist. Moments later, I found it. I proceeded with the next step; moving forward slowly while keeping the star centered in my view. Slowly, I inched forward and then stopped; the star had disappeared. I then extended my arms and let the power of the Iris flow out, letting them melt with an invisible barrier and finally, letting the power drag me in.

Beyond the barrier stood an ancient forest with tree’s as thick as houses and canopies that look like a cover of dense clouds. And beyond that, a single spiral tower protrudes out from the forest, towering so high that its peak seems to touch the clouds. Yes, there are clouds here. A little distance away, at the border of the forest was a lone guard tower taller then the canopy. I had come a long way… least there be some food and water there.

ElderG: [Yelling to the top of the tower] Yo! Anyone up there!?
Guard: [Lazily] Yeh yeh… what you want… [Looks down and is shocked] Well, if it isn’t the guest of honor… [mumbling to himself] if I even know what honor means… [Normal tone] We’ll drop you some food and water but just enough for you to cross the forest. Oh, and hurry. You’re expected in town.
ElderG: [Yelling to the top of the tower] Thanks!

Food and water are dropped from the top of the tower, cushioned by a compressed layer of air I made with magic. After consuming a required portion, I packed the rest into my bag and proceeded into the forest ahead.

~*~

[The sun emerges when ElderG appears from the forest, slightly winded but not wounded.]
Trevor: [Arms crossed, leaning on the wall next to the large gate] Took you long enough. What’s your reason this time?
ElderG: [Takes out a water pouch and drains it] Damn Breaker got me in the chest. Nothing much but I had been running, so that took some out of me.
Trevor: [Laughs] What a joke. 14 years and you still can’t get pass the forest unscratched.
ElderG: [Angry] Don’t push it…
Trevor: [Serious] But, you better fix that soon. Your journey ahead ain’t going to any breeze… [Trailing off as he moves through the gate]

I followed after him, contemplating his words. As I walked through, I entered a world of spiral towers and silver buildings. There was a fight or two already on the way at the city gates and I could feel a few more looming ahead. The blacksmiths were hammering their latest creations on the anvils, promoting their latest wares to potential customers while trying to protect their business from neighboring smiths. Usually, it involves taking that hammer of theirs and changing targets. Somewhere, a cry could be heard and from the mumbling of witnesses, another fool had lost his arm in a dual. Elsewhere, a girl had introduced the end of her sword to her attempted rapist in a rather… painful manner – one that would make any male winch in anguish – while toying with him, slowly torturing the pour bastard till she got bored and left. I wouldn’t worry about those two; the healers will patch them up good… for a price. All in all, it was just another normal day in Voliskeel. Ahhh… it’s great to be home.

@A wave of darkness suddenly covered the shining me, and in that same moment, I broke through the dark aura, ready for battle... Then, I heard Bean's voice coming from my behind...

Bean: Hold your horses, moon guy. I don’t mean you any harm... Now I know how strong are you...

I turned but no one's there, I looked up and I saw nothing...

J.A: Absolutely powerful dark aura that was... I should be happy my Light Barrier formed during Light Meditation protected me. Bean's voice I heard, I shall keep an eye on him.

I face the forest, yes, a piece of forest around 2 miles away from the mayor's house.

J.A: Lets find some stuff and the forest.

I stretched out my left hand, and summoned Valvaris to send me to the forest. A gust of wind appeared and hover me above the land. It sent me to the forest at high speed, and then, landed me safely right in front of the forest. I walked into it.

J.A: Very creepy, indeed, but this should be fun.

I extracted my katar on my right hand, and stood in a battle stance. Suddenly, a huge wolf jumped out from behind and when it touches my shoulder, I made a quick turn and cut my katar through its stomach. It falls down dead.

I looked at it, "A Mercausgian Wolf" I said, and then, a blue, shining stone dropped out from the wolf's stomach. I picked it up, and examined it.

J.A: It seems to be, the ' Astral Aquamarine' Jewel. I suppose it should have the ability to call out water magic once when used...

I kept it in my pocket, suddenly I found out that I'm surround by a bunch of Mercausgian Wolf. "Bad luck today.... for you all" I beamed a smile on my face, and all the wolves charged at me. I charged my energy into my katar on the right hand, and it flashes yellow.

"Fighting at night is my advantage..."

I raised my right arm, and waited for the wolves to be near, and then, I swings my right arm to my left and did a spin, and slashed all those wolves that's near to me and my right hand of my left shoulder. Then, I shouted, "Moon Gravitation!" and a beam of light appear from the sky and shine on me, my right hand then swayed from the left shoulder to the right side of my body, causing the combustion of the light. That move stunned the other wolves around which did not dare to come near me anymore. With my stealth, I moved around and sliced all the wolves with my katar. And I got another "Astral Aquamarine" Jewel.

I took out a cloth and wiped the blood on my katar. I then kept my extracted katar back into the holder on the wrist of my right hand.

J.A: Time to head back for a good sleep.

I summoned Valvaris again, and she send me back to the mayor's house, hover me above the ground, and I climbed into the room from the window. I went in and saw Angel and Reiz still asleep, and Bean, still snoring... I didn't care that much anyway, I just lied down on the bed, close my eyes, and drove off to my own dream world.

@Looking a the ceiling in the dark room, DD was unable to catch any sleep. He was feeling lonely, just like he used to be. Being alone for most of his time has made him unperturbed by loneliness, but somehow, he is feeling it now. Trying to get his mind off the subject, he think over the mayor's proposal that he rejected earlier on. The mayor requested for his help but he was unwilling to commit himself. He knew his own strength and shortcomings, and what the mayor proposed was beyond his capabilities. Even though he told the mayor to ask the others for assistance, his heart was filled with guilt for not being able to help the mayor in a time of need. The more he thought of it, the more he couldn’t sleep. Wanting to clear his mind, he went out of the room, and went up to the roof. In the process, he knocked over a table in the darkness. On the roof, under the stars, he slowly relaxed himself. Memories of his past slowly danced in his mind. It was then he shed a tear. Later, he felt someone touching him on his shoulder.
Ariel: Couldn't sleep?
DD: Oh, your back. Yeah.... Wonder why I can’t catch some shut eye today. *Ariel wipes off the tear on his face*
Ariel: Feeling nostalgic today?
DD: How'd you guess?
Ariel: Looking at the stars that brighten up the night sky, memories of the past easily come to mind. Care to share?
DD: I think it's ok.... Was just remembering the time when I was young, when my family was still with me. We lived in the countryside, always enjoying the view of the night sky together outside our house. Ever since we were separated, this is the first time I've looked up to the night sky. It sure brings back the pleasant memories now. *Gazes at the stars*
Ariel: Stargazing at night.... How I wish I could relive that moment.... *remembers something and gazes at the stars too* I too enjoyed looking at the night sky with someone I cared for in the past, even if he didn’t know it. I never did get to tell him how I felt, and then he left, suddenly.... abruptly.... leaving me with only loneliness...I was helpless to prevent it.... *Starts shedding a tear too. DD comes over and embraces her. Ariel is a bit surprised. *
DD: You are not alone. I understand how you feel.... I always remind myself "I am who I am now for who I was in the past". Ever since I parted from my family, I've been traveling around, experiencing new sights and sounds, with the desire to seek others who are related to me being my driving force and keeping the sadness away. If they were still around, I wouldn't have experienced all this.
Ariel: That's true... But then, why did you want to die when I first met you?
DD: After traveling for quite some time, I learned that I had an uncle living in Matherauimme. I was excited, but before my arrival, he just passed away, without telling me anything or acknowledging I was related to him. Frustration took over and the rest... is history. *Ariel eased up and they then spent the night looking a the night sky on the roof together*

Back in the DD's room, the mayor apologized to DD from outside the door for his outburst earlier on. He didn’t take DD refusal to help him very well then. Now, since he had time to think it over, he wanted to apologized to DD. After knocking for a while, he entered the room and found the room empty. Seeing the table knocked over, panic ensued and he went over to wake up the others, briefly telling them what he was telling DD. He suspected DD had been kidnapped since he tried to get DD's help.

@Angel…

Angel…

Angel… come… come… come to mother…

The white figure drifted further and further away from Angel’s reach. The surrounding is full of beds of flowers of different types and colours. The air is fresh the sky is blue. Butterflies are flying around the flowers, birds chirping away serenely. The atmosphere is alien to Angel, she has never been to this place before, yet… she sees it every day, or precisely every night…

Angel…

Come… come…

Angel pick up pace and runs towards the white figure, but the faster she runs, the faster the figure drifted… making the chase almost impossible.

Come to me, my child… find me… use the amulet… find the descendant of Impreda… find me…


ARGH!!!!!!!

Angel: huh, huh, huh, huh… *sweats profusely* mother… huh, huh…
Reiz: Angel? Are you alright? It’s the same one still?
Angel: Yes… it never leaves me since that day…
Reiz: … It’s okay; it is not your fault. * He sits on the bed next to Angel and hugs her*
Angel: … It IS my fault… my fault… *starts crying* else mother…  
Reiz: No, it is not and you knew it. Stop blaming yourself for something you didn’t do.
Angel: It is. Else mother won’t be taken away…  
Reiz: No, it is not. You didn’t choose to be born, Angel. It is never your fault, if it is anyone’s fault, it will be that of your father. Not yours.
Angel: But… it was because of me mother was taken… because of me…  
Reiz: No, it is because some old fool was too much of a coward to stand up for his own child and wife!!  Now stop crying and get some sleep. Okay?  
Angel: … Okay…  

Reiz lays Angel down onto the bed and cover her with the blanket. He still sits there, not showing any sign of leaving. From his pocket, out he took a harmonica. And with that, he plays a very serene melody, a melody that’s soothing, comforting and peaceful. It doesn’t sound like a melody from the earth of Mitrash; the melody was too heavenly, too saintly to be of man’s. The beautiful melody drift into the night peacefully… with Angel soundly asleep.

@Bean snored loudly, but his mind is awake... He heard JA coming back from whatever he had been doing; he seemed very satisfied with something... Then he heard Angie woke up from a dream, nightmare probably.... and Reiz comforted her, then playing some music from a harmonica probably... Bean wondered about EG... At that moment he thought about EG and his connections with Keel... and Keel with Necrid... Could it be Necrid serving someone? Could it be Keel? His thought was broken by shouts from the mayor...

His shouts woken everyone up... except Bean, of course... the mayor was saying something about DD being kidnapped, and he needed their help... Angie, Reiz and JA followed the mayor...

Chris: What about him??
Angel: Leave him, he is hopeless if he was sleeping

They left... Bean stopped snoring, and quickly jumped out of the window... If DD was in danger, he could fend it off by himself, he thought... Instead he went to the forest...

There, corpses of wolves, cleanly cut by someone laid on the forest floor... Bean examined it, and thought... Whoever cut this, is very skilled indeed...

Devanna: A Mercausgian Wolf...
Bean: Great God, Devanna. Don’t do that again, please... I got a weak heart.
Devanna: Since when?
Bean: Let me think, since multiple Grand Ends appeared before my eyes, all in a space of less than 10 minutes?
Devanna: You are pathetic... you know that? So what do you think, what the hell is going on here...
Bean: Hell if I know, the only thing I know is that Keel is involved, and they are in the center of it...
Devanna: And what should we do now? We can’t trust anyone right now you know... Even the Convent dared to attack my father, and. (awkward pause here)
Bean: Hmm. Interesting indeed...
Devanna: Hell if it interesting, goddamit!!
Bean: On the contrary, it is interesting... Convent tried to take out the Light Mage... Demon tried to control the Dark Sorcerer... You catch the drift?
Devanna:  You mean...?
Bean: Maybe just maybe... Even I was instructed at first to kill your father...
Devanna: Maybe you are not pathetic as you would seemed...
Bean: Yeah, listen... Could you find someone for me? He is an old acquaintance of mine, and he lived at the edge of the town... His name is Gibb...
Devanna: Why wouldn’t you go yourself...
Bean: He wouldn’t be too glad to see me... just bring him here tomorrow night ok? Oh be careful with him, he is quite a pervert... and don’t say my name ok?
Devanna: Sure...
Bean: BTW do you see DD anywhere? Oh wait, you don’t know him...?
Devanna: Another of your company, the one who seemed close to you, is on the roof, with an angel...
Bean: Hah, it figures... Tomorrow ok? Careful though... he is a pervert...

Devanna vanished, and Bean examined the corpses of the wolves... Then he unleashed a necromancy spell and 4 wolves came back to life, bowing before him... Bean kneeled to the ground... "Goddamit, still not enough... I think this is good enough... Listen my wolves, before your time is up, search for the Demon Lord Necrid... and found who he was with... come back at tomorrow sunrise and report to me... GO!!"

The 4 wolves went, and Bean began to suck in the souls of the other fallen wolves... It wasn’t enough, but it has replenish some of his power... enough for him to stand and walk back...

"I still need to learn how to recirculate and control... dammit"
And he went back to the mayor house, hoping the commotion is now over...

@With Angel, Reiz and Jester gathered together, Chris relates his and the city’s current predicament. Sirroth was a city whose growth could rival that of Matherauimme some time ago, and that was what that caught the eye of a rival, the leader of a neighboring city. Sirroth natural resources were overexploited and so they look over to the neighboring city for their needs. The neighboring city on the other hand had plenty of resources, but scorching deserts on the west, tall mountains in the south and turbulent seas on the east surrounded it. Sirroth was the only gateway to the outside world on the north for them. Both cities depended on each other, with Sirroth becoming the market for produce from the neighboring city. Reality soon dawned that whoever had control over Sirroth would automatically have an influence over the neighboring city as well. Diplomacy was the best solution which would have benefited both sides but they could not reach an agreement. Soon, what was once a peaceful, prosperous city was thrown into turmoil with the introduction of thugs disrupting all activities in the city. Fighters from all over were attracted to the turmoil with the hope of battle for reasons that vary from plain having fun to gauging their abilities, creating an image of what people perceive as a city good for picking a fight. Good-hearted people were hard to come by, and so once here, most fighters aligned themselves to the thugs, joining them in wreaking havoc whereas those who chose to help the city were gradually overrun by the mobs of thugs. Knowing that Chris would seek assistance from whomever he could, preventing support to the city would be a good tactical move, which would explain the motive of kidnapping DD who had defeated a good number of them. His own daughter had also been taken hostage, but as a responsible leader of his people, he could not be selfish. The people of Sirroth depended on him, so no matter how scarred he is emotionally, he had to stay on.
After hearing the story, Angel wanted to help Chris solve the conflict.
Angel: I’ll try to help. I’ll help you, not for myself or for you, but for the city.
Reiz: But I thought you had an urgent task at hand? Are you going against the Convent by taking on another task?
Angel starts rethinking her priorities. Bean comes in with DD and Ariel in tow.
DD: You’ll help and not because of me? I so sad. (Poking fun in reference to their assumption that DD has been kidnapped. Gets a smack from Angel for that. Ariel then tells him this isn’t the time for jokes.)
The door then opens, and in came a man carrying the lifeless body of a little girl. The man then reported to Chris that a house has been burned to the ground, and all residents of the house including the girl didn’t make it out of the tragedy alive. The other members of the house have been burned to ashes, and this was the only body the people could find. Angel is shocked.
Chris: Why did this happen? Who killed her?
Man: I am not sure. No one saw people entering the house. But as far as the situation of the town is concerned, we suspect that thugs had gone to her place to seek treatment after getting wounded fighting our guests here. She refused, and down comes the house.
Chris: How far will they go? They’ve stooped to new lows by killing non-combatants. I will always be indebted to her for healing my illness. Go prepare a proper burial for the child. That’s the least I can do for her.
Angel: Isn’t that… Molina? *Starts being haunted by the scenes of ElderG killing Janice but wasn’t going to reveal it. She now knew that if she were to help Chris, the memory of the killings would continue to haunt her as long as she helped Chris for she would be helping Chris in remembrance of Janice and Molina. Being reminded of something you wanted to forget wont help the process, so she had a lot of food for thought. On the other hand, memories of the past played in both DD and Ariel’s mind. They then replied together.
DD & Ariel: I will go.
Chris: I cant say how grateful I am. How about your friends?
DD and Ariel look over to the others.

[Angel]

@Bean: So DD and Arial... you both will go?
DD and Arial: Yes!
DD: How bout you?? Are you going too??
Bean: Nope, I wont... I still have something to do here...
DD and Arial:  What? Why??
Bean: Like I said I have something to do here... U tell me where are you going... I will catch with you later...

DD: OK... so Angel, Reiz are you going??
Angel: (continue here)

@Angel: … maybe not. I have stuff to complete, and it is important.
Reiz: well, then I won't be going as well. I swear that I will take care of Angel.
J.A: My mission is to protect the priest and her Keeper... since the Keeper is not around, I’ll follow suit with Angel then.
DD: WAT?? You three are not going to help? How on earth are the two of us going to help?
Angel: You'll have to figure it out yourself; DD. u can't just depends on us too much. Perhaps it is time for you to consider a profession suitable for yourself.
DD: but...
Arial: I think Angel is right... and with that wound of yours...
DD: what about it?
Arial: I don’t know... but it seems.
Angel: that wound is no normal wound, it has spirits on it, I can sense it... some strong spirits. But it is neutral, at least for the time being... I suggest you let Reiz take a look at it. He knows more about this kind of stuff than I do...
DD: what is Reiz, some kind of scholar?
Reiz: You’ll regret your life if u try mocking me again  
DD: hey, hey, I am sorry... how come you are always so ...
Reiz: so??  
DD: nevermind... so, can u help check it? *Takes off his gloves*
Reiz: ...Elemental Spirits. They are residing within your wound. You better do your best to strengthen yourself; else they'll eat your soul up.
DD: WHAT?? My soul?
Reiz: yes. Elemental Spirits require a large amount of spiritual and mental strength to tame. If you are not strong enough, the Spirits will drain u off. I’ll suggest u go see this guy *give DD a photograph of a old man, with lots of white hair and beard* he is Lamenn, the ancient scholar of spiritual studies. He is my tutor. Tell him I recommend you, he'll tell u what to do next.
DD: ancient? How old is this man?
Reiz: going 2051 next moon  
All:   2051?
Reiz: yep, he is immortal, so...  
All: *sweats drop*
DD: but, I don't want to be a wizard...
Reiz: o, forget it, u have not a single bits of talent to be a wizard  
DD:  hey!! What are you trying to say???
Angel: nevermind him, DD. anyway, u dun need to be a wizard to control those spirits, all you need is a medium to channels their powers for u to use. So, You’ll probably need some special weapon or something. I think it is best if u become a warrior, you’ll learn fast enough  
Arial: agree
Bean: whatever.
J.A: I can give u some help training  
DD: Thanks!   So, where is this ancient guy?
Reiz: heads down south, you’ll see white cottage, that's where he stay.
DD:  not staying in some weird place?
Reiz: hahaha that white cottage is no normal place. It is a labyrinth to his place underneath it. And oh, with tones of monster too. So, bring someone with u, and plenty of potions  
DD: *sweats drop*

@DD: But what bout the city? We can’t let it go on any longer right?
Angel: Don’t worry bout the city. You have us here right? Furthermore, what good can you do if you die?
DD: … Makes sense. *Scratching his left hand* How far is it from here?
Reiz: You should be able to reach there by noon if you leave now.
Ariel: Let’s go then DD. Take care of the city in our absence ok?

Both of them left the mansion. The others return to their rooms.
Angel: I never knew you’d lie Reiz. What’s actually wrong with him?
Reiz: I’m not too sure. That’s why I sent him to Lamenn. But I do k now he’s going to be bad news if he doesn’t get treatment.

In the mayor’s room, Chris was talking to his assistant.
Man: Pretty direct if I must say so sir.
Chris: Do whatever’s necessary, nothing else. Shouldn’t you be busy?
Man: The sun hasn’t awaken yet. Everything has its time and place so see you in the morning.

Walking down the south trail, DD and Ariel were conversing.
Ariel: Why didn’t you tell me anything about this?
DD: I didn’t want you guys to worry… I’m already a burden to you guys. Since I felt fine I thought it wasn’t worth a mention.
Ariel: You’ll worry us more in the end if you keep things to yourself. We’re not that unreasonable.
DD: I know. Sorry bout that ok?
Ariel: It’s ok. Just tell us if there’s anything next time.  

By noon, they had already arrived at the gates of the cottage. A hooded man tells them to go back but they decided to go in anyway. The man then disappears.
Ariel: Ready?
DD: Let’s go!

Entering the gates into the labyrinth below the cottage, monsters slowly spawned. Ariel started hacking and slashing a way through. As they went by, the monsters were tougher and spawned at an increasingly fast rate. Not wanting to fight meaningless battles, Ariel cast a spell. Soon, monsters were attracted to a space a few meters away from there and attacked the air.
DD: … ? What’s happening?
Ariel: Just a little manipulation of the light element. I just toyed around with the diffraction rules. Ever tried catching fish in the water?  
DD: I see….
Ariel: Come on; let’s leave them chasing shadows.
The spell was worthwhile for they made progress at a quick pace. Later, the monsters didn’t seem tricked by it. Good old combat ensued. Busy fighting off the monsters, Ariel didn’t notice one creeping behind her. When it launched an attack, DD stepped in. He attacked the elbow joints of the monsters, dislocating them with only 1 blow. The monster was unable to attack using its hands.
Ariel: Thanks.
DD: I’m not useless right?  I’ll take your back.

Not long later, they reached the entrance to Lamenn’s residence. The hooded man from before was there, again.
DD: Hey, weren’t you outside the gates when we met you? How did you get in faster then us?
Man: As a resident of this place it’d be an embarrassment if you reached here before me. Furthermore, coming down the hole is much quicker. *Points to a hole in the ceiling. DD & Ariel both have a sweat drop moment* what business do you have coming here?
DD: We’re here to get my hand checked by Lamenn. Is he here?
Man: He is, but you won’t be able to meet him. He won’t meet with the likes of you. I advise you to leave before I have to forcefully “help” you 2 out of this place.
Ariel: But Reiz said he’d take a look at his hand!
Man: Not familiar with the name Reiz. Now, please leave.
There was an air of hostility building up in the place. Soon, someone appeared.
Lamenn: Stand aside, my friend. Reiz is my friend. Please, do come in.
They then all followed Lamenn in and were seated.
Lamenn: My apologies for my friend’s action. It’s true that lots of people try to drop by my place for menial reasons. My patience has a limit too for I’ll be living for a long, long time. So how is Reiz? It’s been years since I last met him.
DD: He’s…. Fine… Actually we can’t really tell cause we just met him a few days beforehand.  
Lamenn: Is that so? Then what is the purpose of him sending you 2 over?
DD: Oh yeah, forgot to introduce ourselves. Anyway, just call me DD. She’s Ariel. He sent his regards with us.  
Ariel: He just wants you to check DD’s hands. *Lamenn thinks for a while. “Why would Reiz send someone over here to have his hand’s checked? There must be something worthwhile behind it. *
Lamenn: Ok, show me the hand in question. *DD takes of the gloves on his left hand, revealing the skeletal hand. Lamenn was excited and started examining it from every angle* Interesting… *Tries to hold DD’s hand to check physically but his hands jerked back as if there was electricity. Then, Lamenn excused himself and brought Ariel along. *
Lamenn: Ariel, could you help me with something?
Ariel: What is it? *Lamenn then whispers into her ears and she hesitantly agreed. *
DD was still seated on the chair, with nothing to do. Then, Ariel entered the room again. Lamenn came in from behind, and chopped her head off. DD was stunned… then moments later; a surge of evil energy blasted the place. Before he could do anything, Ariel and Lamenn disappeared. The real ones came in through the door. There was no blood on the floor, something DD noticed and calmed down.
DD: What the hell happened? Is my mind fooling me?
Ariel: I’m sorry DD… Lamenn wanted to test his hypothesis…
Lamenn: Seems that what I predicted was right. Your hand has a source of evil living within it, feeding on the negative emotions you have. The emotion you had just now? Revenge… Pure evil….
DD: Inside my hand? There’s nothing left of it for crying out loud!
Lamenn: Just because you don’t see it doesn’t mean it’s not there. By my standards you’re doing pretty well. *DD looks at his hand and is puzzled. * Anyway, have some rest. Your emotions went into overdrive a moment ago. Ariel, come with me. I need some help finding books on his condition in my library. *They both leave DD back in the room again*
In the library, Lamenn and Ariel had a discussion.
Lamenn: What has this boy got himself into? Ariel, I didn’t want to break it to him but even though he’s still doing fine now by maintaining sanity, I can be sure he’s consciousness will crumble 1 day. He is resisting the energy, and his body is paying for it. His hand is the first to be affected. How long would it take for it to take control of him? I don’t know. You just felt what happened a moment ago right?
Ariel: Can we do anything about it?
Lamenn: From my analysis, it is a source of darkness living in his hand. A huge surge of holy energy should be able to banish it. Problem is where do we find the source of holy energy?
Ariel: *After thinking* I got an idea. Lamenn, do you know bout the cleansing ritual for souls entering heaven? I guess you knew I wasn’t human when I came by right?
Lamenn: Indeed…. You’re referring to the Ascension Ritual? It may work… But can you get the things required?
Ariel: I can do it.
Lamenn: You have decided to go back to the city and leave DD in the care of your friends’ right? Could you pass Reiz a letter from me?
Ariel: Ok.
Lamenn then writes a letter to Reiz. Ariel and DD leave the cottage. Lamenn shouts to them “Move quickly. When I touched his hand to inspect it the evil source has awaken and may attract demons if you stay too long at a place.” Seeing them out of sight, Lamenn burns the draft copy of his letter, which says “Kill the boy if he starts acting weirdly. Don’t take chances.”*
Ariel and DD soon were on their way home to Sirroth.

@It took only one and a half day for both DD and Arial to journey back and forth form Lamenn’s place. During their meeting with Lamenn, nothing had occurred in the town, none of the thugs came back. In fact, it seems like peace is finally back in Sirroth. DD and Arial were both anxious to rejoin the group. Arial, other than that, feels worried over the matter she had discussed with Lamenn back at the underground, worst still she have to gather medication for DD, and half of the list is full of forbidden items!!! “How on heaven am I going to get hold of those items?”


They reached the inn and found Angel, Reiz and Bean eating at a corner. Hungry, they hurried over to join the rest.

Angel: So, finally, took u long enough. I thought u two will make it in I day.
Arial: The monsters were a lot more tougher than we expected.
Bean: So, what the ancient guy said? *DD starts to order food for himself and Arial*
Arial: …
Reiz: Just spill it. Why do u think I send him to Lamenn if we are not worried about him?
Arial: ... *looks at the now sullen DD*
DD: What? I am tired, and he didn’t says anything to me.
Arial: No, I was just…. Can u two come with me for a moment? *Looks at Reiz and Angel*
Angel: Huh? … Ok
Reiz: Anything

The three of them got up and headed upstairs to Angel’s room, closing the door behind them.

DD: ? What’s with them?  
Bean: It’s obvious isn’t it?
 DD: Huh? What?  
Bean: … It means your situation is bad and it is either they doesn’t know how to tell you or they dun think u need to know about it yet.
DD: Like what?
Bean: Why ask me? Ask them.  

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Angel: So, we can talk now?
Arial: Yeah, so….

Arial told the both of them what Lamenn told her and handed the letter to Reiz.

Angel: … This is not good. So, what do you want me to do?
Reiz: Like what Lamenn said, we need Holy power to banish it, but since we can have a permanent banish, we’ll need lots of temporary ones. U r the only one who has such power to do so.
Arial: Yes, that’s right.
Angel: … I hate this. What type of banishing?
Reiz: Wait; let me read this letter first. *Looks into his letter, reading it* … this is no good… *looks at Angel* you do know how to perform the Ancient Spirit Ritual, right?
Angel:  WHAT??? That blardy spell will eat up ¾ of my SP!!!!
Reiz: Meaning u can?
Angel: If I can do Grand End, obviously I can do it!
Arial: … Are u really a Priestess? How come you can Grand End?
Angel: I can Grand End since I am 10 years old, and don’t ask me the question again because I have no idea as well.  
Arial: 10 years old? *I must remember to be very cautious with her*
Reiz: So, can u help? Once a week.
Angel: Do I have a choice?  
Reiz: I dun think so  
Angel: …  
Arial: Good, and I need to go find all those items…
Reiz: It will be a miracle if u can get those forbidden item…  
Angel: Then u should start praying.  
_________________

@Jester woke up from his room, and heard DD and Arial's voice down below... lazy... and tired, (from the unleash of Moon Gravitation right after the 'attack' from Bean during Light Meditation) He went back to sleep, he faintly heard footsteps.

J.A: ... '3 person...'

3 person was walking towards a room and a slight slam of the door is heard.

Jester opened his eyes, 'should I eavesdrop? Nah... Maybe not.... If I do so... it would be bad ain't it?'
He opened his door, and headed downstairs... He sniffed... and screamed... 'FOOD!!!!!!!!'

He sprinted to the table and started 'Gulping down 50% of the foods on the table.

DD: Wow, jest... you sure are hungry...
J.A: Erm, not exactly you see... I didn't eat yesterday...  
Bean: Oh.... yea, I remember... you didn't even come down yesterday from your room... what happened?
J.A : ........   I forgot about eating...
Bean, DD:   That is news...  

J.A: Okay... I'll go out to walk around the town... Just scout around and feel the breeze...
Bean: Need some company?
J.A: I don't see the necessity...  
Bean: All right then...

Jester walked out of the inn and headed towards the town, he walked past a few shops, it is all... peace... so tranquil, everyone's having their own job and role, nothing is happening, no bloodshed, no war, a moment of tranquility. Jester took another step, and realise he was being trailed.

J.A: *thought* who could it be. Might be a bad case.

He hasten his steps and he felt the 'pursuer' had also picked up pace. He made a quick turn and used Mirage to turn unseen. A shadow immediately passed by and disappeared into the other end of the path.

J.A:  HIM?? Why is he here? Did 'HE' send him for me, or, did he escape? He trailed me, I suppose he just arrived, the aura appeared just a while ago. *Pause* I think I'll see what he would do, I hope he doesn't mean trouble to the party...

J.A: Turn backs to the street and ran back to the inn, in Mirage form.

A shadow appeared from the other end.

: I have found you... Jester Annueldo......  

@The next day Arial and DD began to journey to visit Lamenn, Bean began talking to Reiz...

Bean: Say, you say you are a Shadow Warlock right??
Reiz: Yeah... Why??
Bean: Just asking... this is getting pretty interesting don’t you think?
Reiz: What is?
Bean: Heh, nothing... Just a Shadow Warlock joining in.... I must say it is interesting don’t you think?
Reiz: What is goddamit?
Bean: Nothing, I just enjoy aggravating people... Always does that to DD  
Reiz: Can’t you just be straight for a while?
Bean: *thinks deeply* no I don’t think so  

As Reiz left fuming, in search of Angel no doubt, Bean whispers under his breath... "No, not when other people kept giving me riddles, I cant... No one can be trusted..."

JA: Huh, you said something?
Bean: Nothing

----

Reiz found Angel and began to spoke to her

Reiz: That Bean fellow, quite something isn’t he?
Angel: What him? He is sometimes as useless as DD.... He broke after seeing me doing a Grand End  
Reiz: Cant help feeling peculiar about him... He mumbled something after we talked... I can hear the last phrase clearly though
Angel: And what is that?
Reiz: "No one can be trusted"... I fear he is going to go berserk
Angel: And if he does, you going to "calm" him down right?  
Reiz: If I need to... So what are you doing today??

----

Night came, and Bean went to the jungle near the mayor mansion once again... He's getting tensed for his meeting with Gibb

: Hey lady, are we there yet?
Devanna: It is near, I suggest you keep your hand to yourself though...

And then he saw them... Gibb and Devanna

Gibb: You... YOU SON OF A...!!!

Gibb lunged at Bean at tremendous speed, Bean evaded but his cloak was at one corner torn...

Bean: Hello Gibb...
Gibb: YOU!!! YOU!!!
Bean: Devanna, step back... This can be quite dangerous
Devanna: *perching on a tree branch* Oh no, I want to see this though... Wonder why is he so pissed with you??
Bean: That is because...

Bean has no time to finish his last sentence... Gibb attacks came very fast and very furious... Both of his hands were now claws, and Bean started releasing his black aura...

@After some time, Gibb began to show signs of tiredness... His breathing was very hard... and his attacks were not as furious as before, although it seems to Bean that it was gaining in speed. Bean cloaks were already in tatters... His face has a grin on it, his eyes shining... Devanna still perched on the tree, her face showed signs of amusement...

Gibb: What are laughing at, kid?
Bean: Nothing   could we settle this thing later? I have other things to take care of, you know
Gibb: HEH! You think you could get away easily from what you did last time KID???
Bean: Well.... Yeah
Devanna:  
Gibb: Heh, it seems you have gained something than just your powers then...
Bean: And what's that supposed to mean?
Gibb: You are now even more... ANNOYING!!!

Gibb attacked again, and Bean wasn’t evading it... The attack connected but it went through Bean, as though it was smoke... Then more figures of Bean suddenly appeared

Gibb: Shadow Spawn!! Curse you Bean!!
Bean:  
Devanna: Like you said, he is annoying...
Gibb: Heh... Well I must say kid... You have grown, haven’t you... Tell you what... defeat me and we'll talk...
Bean: Promise??
Gibb: Yeah promise, what the...?

What Gibb failed to notice is the voice came close to him from his left, and before he knew it, Bean had hit him...

[Angel]

@Ariel : Would you have taken no for an answer if Angel needed it?
Reiz :  ........
Ariel :  Anyway, humans pray to the heavens so whom should I pray to?  

Downstairs
DD : Bean, fasting?
Bean : I don’t really have an appetite now.
DD : Guess I'll have it all to myself then.  
Bean : *thinking* that aura is really putting me off. It’s been like this ever since he came back.
Bean : I think I'll eat later. I'll be with the others.
Upstairs
Bean : We've got to do something about him soon or I can't even eat in peace.
Rest : We know. We feel it too. *looks at Ariel*
Ariel : I know. I'm just thinking of a way to get those stuff from up there. They wont give it without going through lots of red tape.  

In the lobby, a person entered and seeks out the mayor. The mayor's assistant answered him.
Person : I'm here to file a missing persons report. 2 of my friends went into the forest to gather some firewood yesterday and haven’t returned ever since. I hope the mayor would gather a search group to find them.
Assistant : *flips through some papers* I'm sorry... All our personnel are undergoing defense training. Preparing the defense of the city is urgently required before the thugs return.
Person : What do you suggest then? Leave the matter alone and hope they come home soon? *Chris comes by the lobby*
Chris : Could you make do with volunteers? As you heard, our personnel are busy. Furthermore, you only need people to find them, right?
Person : But the forest is dangerous! We aren’t trained in case animals attack us!
Chris : hmm... Very well then, I'll assign someone to tag along. Go gather volunteers at the city square then.
Person : Thank you.
Chris then chats with his assistant for a while as the assistant flips through some documents.
Chris : So do we have anyone to spare?
Assistant : I'm afraid not. You already assigned all personnel to training. By the way, you’re supposed to overlook the funeral preparations for the girl at the edge of town.
Chris : Is that so... Thanks anyway.
Chris walks away. Wondering whom he could ask for help, he walked past the inn and saw DD inside eating. Few moments later, DD headed towards the town square and together with the volunteers, they headed for the forest.

The forest exuded a sense of calm, a sense of serenity. Only the chirping of insects and the rustling of the leaves could be heard. DD calmed down and relaxed while enjoying the environment. Later on, they came by a basket belonging to the missing people. Soon, a volunteer raised the alarm and everyone gathered at a spot. DD followed, and was greeted with the sight of people shaking their heads or holding their heads low in respect. Barging his way to he front, he was struck by horror at the sight of a machete covered in dull blood beside a big splatter of bright fresh blood. The volunteers had also found unknown tracks of blood nearby.

In the meanwhile at 3 different places, 3 individuals were minding their own things in the forest. Suddenly, they looked disturbed by something. They then headed towards their own groups respectively.

Collecting himself, DD told the volunteers to gather whatever they found. The machete, the basket and some torn clothing was collected. The unknown tracks were sketched in hope of identification back in town. Everyone offered a prayer before they started finding their way back to the city. DD was still somewhat unsettled by what he just saw.

@It was approaching midnight, Reiz is still wide-awake, staring at the ceiling, thinking hard. The content of Lamenn’s letter really worries him.

*Should I tell Angel about it? She did know more prevention method than I do… hemmmmm*

Dear Reiz,

Hey, long times no see. How are you doing? Hopefully you are still alive. Anyway, no time for that.

Your pal, DD is in serious trouble. He is being slowly possessed by Yewa (Ancient Demon King). As you should know, your friend is too weak to resist the take-over by Yewa, so we’ll need to help him. I already talk to the little guardian angel about it, and she had suggested the use of the Ascension Ritual, but I doubt she’ll be able to gather all the required items. So, I am preparing another alternative, just in case the first dun work.

You do know about the Holy Bracelets that belongs to your friend? What was her name again? Angel? Those Holy Bracelets are properties of Heaven, I dun know how she has it with her, but those bracelets will be able to really suppress Yewa’s power on DD. See if u can get her to borrow those bracelets, just 2 will do, else your friend will be dead. Those bracelets have very strong Holy Power that only Heavenly Being can use. (which is another reason to doubt the origin of miss Angel)

Anyway, if that doesn’t work too, then try to get Angel to perform the Ancient Spirit Ritual to DD once a week. I am not sure if she can do the spell, but since she has those bracelets, she should be able to use it.

And, if anything unfortunate happens to DD, KILL HIM IMMEDIATEDLY!!! Before Yewa take over him.

The old and rotting,
Lamenn

Reiz: Haiz….. what should I do?

@When Jester reach the Inn, it seems that Ariel and DD is back.
But he stays hidden, both to the party, and to the mysterious shadow.

J.A : *thoughts* He is still following me.. I can't bring harm to the party, especially the Priestess, I think I have to settle this alone...

J.A : *shouted*Follow me all you want! And if you dare to!

He started dashing away and head to a piece of vast land, a sudden vast land near the town Sirroth. He then broke out of the Mirage status.

J.A : Reveal yourself, Arghaim.

Arghaim : Seems that you have not forgotten me, Jester.

A man walked out from behind of a huge rock.

J.A : Unbelievable, you followed me to this place?

Arghaim : That old man Molly sent you here without letting anyone know what's happening... You know me, I am a curious person.

J.A : Of course I know. We've known each other since we're young. But, you had stolen the village's Artifact and not regret what you had done.

Arghaim : I did it so that the demon can spare my life, I'm trying to protect myself, and can’t you see?!

J.A : Nonsense! You knew that the lost of that artifact can lead to the destruction of the village, and if it wasn't for Elder Molemni's sacred power it would be in ruins by now. You rather let the village die!

Arghaim : If the village doesn’t die, I DIE!

J.A : The selfish you. I knew that all along, Arghaim, you did everything for your own good, and what had that helped you? Nothing but brought you useless powers.

Arghaim : *grin* Absolute. But the powers aren't useless. Ever since I got this power, I am not jealous anymore. Because YOU!!! You, Jester Annueldo, you got the Blood of the Moon flowing in you, you get to be a Lulianar! I don't. I have lust for power, I want to beat you. I can beat you if I have any slight power. And now, with the assistance of the Elements, I can finally fulfill my dream...

J.A : That's imbecile! You should know that Five Elements of Dark won't bring you any good. You need to feed your energy to them everyday! And with every energy they absorb, they grow stronger, and need more energy to sustain their power! They might be of the same element as Five Elements of Light, but they create a desperate condition, by granting you stronger power!

Arghaim : I don't care!! I just want the power, any strong power, just to beat you, Jester, And today, will be my lucky day...

J.A : I inherit the purest power of the Moon and learnt the greatest power of the Lulianar, I shall protect the world from you, and take revenge for the village.

Arghaim : It's impossible... *laugh*

J.A : We shall see about that..

-both of them jumped at each other......-

@Gibb was holding his left rib, doubling over... apparently some of his ribs are broken due to Bean's attack...

Bean: Anything broken??  
Gibb: I think a few bones there... Damnit Bean, you don’t have to be serious about it you know??
Bean: Well, you did say that...
Gibb: I know! I know!! Just shut up already!!!
Devanna: Do you want to heal you? *sweetly, yet with a devilish twinkle in her eyes*
Gibb: OH NO!!! I would rather go to Hell and back!!!
Devanna: I AM trying to repay you for what you have done to me...
Gibb: Maybe another time... No thanks...

After a while, Gibb has managed to bandaged his left ribs, and choose a tree stump to sit down...

Gibb: So what do you want to talk about?
Bean: *face looking dead serious* First of all, Gibb... Can I trust you again? Like I trusted you once before??
Gibb: *silent for a while* Necrid is still after you??
Bean: Yeah, but the situation is getting much complicated actually... We don’t know who to trust now...
Gibb: When you mean "we", that is...
Bean: Both of us...
Gibb: *think deeply, then conjured a pipe out of nowhere, and started to smoke*
Devanna: You can do magic too??
Gibb: I am more a conjurer lady, I conjured stuff... The Shadow Spawn that Bean used on me, I taught him that  but it seems to me that someone has unblocked you...
Bean: Necrid does it...
Gibb: And I can sense you have more than just standard spells for an ordinary sorcerer
Devanna: My father did it...
Gibb: *think very deeply* OK then, tell me everything... Don’t leave a single detail

Bean started to tell Gibb everything... from the situation in the King City to current situation in Sirroth... After he had finished, he waited tensely for reactions from Gibb... Devanna sat patiently on the same tree branch... Then...

Gibb: I will contact you later!!
Bean: WHAT?!! But...
Gibb: The situation is difficult... I need time to investigate...
Bean: GODDAMIT!! Not another riddle... Don’t leave me in the dark dammit!!!

Then suddenly the earth beneath Bean shook, cracked and a giant crystalline hand appeared and catches Bean by the scruff of his neck...

Gibb: Listen kid, When you get as old as me, than you will know to appreciate Patience!
Bean: But...
Gibb: Listen!!! This will be my final lesson for you! Patience!!! You understand??
Bean: *nodded weakly*
Gibb: Good I will contact you, don’t come and search for me, understand??
Bean: *nodded again*
Gibb: Good!! See you again!!!

Gibb left... but the hand he conjured was still there... Devanna came down from the tree branch and looked at Bean

Devanna: Need some help...?
Bean: No...

The hand suddenly turned black and shattered...

Devanna: Cool...
Bean: Thank you...
Devanna: What makes you think we can trust him??
Bean: Nothing... Just old times acquaintance
Devanna: But he was pissed with you...
Bean: Yeah... But we can still trust him...

the sun began to rise... The sky was getting brighter...

Devanna: It has been a long night...
Bean: Yeah it is...

In Bean's mind was something else... None of his wolves returned...

@I strolled down to the northeast side of Voliskeel, trying to avoid the eyes of my fellow Keepers as I made my way. In a place where there are no laws and morality is undefined, it’s common for hatred to bloom… and last. In Voliskeel, blood hatred is old news. Stability in this city is maintained by a complex link of alliances, friendships, neutralities, and hatred between the 12 Keeper families. No use going into every one of them… it will take to long. My family, Fenrir, is on positive terms with the shadow ops family, Opedius, and the golem masters, Mimela. For every other family, we are viewed as rivals or oppositions, most especially by the dragon tamers, Latus. And this is only 1 piece of the mess, so much so that Voliskeel is divided between the families.

As I enter my family area, a figure leaped from 1 of the nearby towers, sword positioned to cut me down. My reflexes kicked in, dashing back while unsheathing Soul to parry the blow. The force of the blow threw my attacker and me some distance back. As we recovered from the impact, I caught a glimpse of my attacker.

ElderG: [Shocked] Grace!? What… what are you doing!?
Grace: [Unfazed, sword ready. Her tone has a touch of sarcasm] Why, welcoming you home, my dear brother. Aren’t you going to thank me?
ElderG: Maybe. But I had a bad week, so don’t take it too seriously if I go all out.
Grace: [Roll eyes] Since when were you better then me?
ElderG: [Grin] It’s been 6 years, girl. Things change.
Grace: [Wider Grin] Well… we’ll just have to try and see, right? [Battle stance] Shall we?
ElderG: [Soul ready] Lets dance.

I won’t talk much on the dual; it’s embarrassing. Not only did she improve a tremendous lot in 6 years, she was now proficient in magic, well enough to dispel and counter my attacks. For a 16 year old, her skills would put her as the top five rising rookies. But she has never left the city much, so her improvement was no miracle. Still, it is astonishing.

Grace: [Picks up Soul] Man, you look pathetic. Haven’t you learned anything since you left?
ElderG: [Gets up] One or two things, but apparently not as much as you.
Grace: [Throws Soul back at ElderG] Of course! I’m Grace Gradina Fenrir! Genius of the Fenrir family and ace Rider of Zodiac!
ElderG: [Sigh] So full of yourself again. You never change…
Grace: And why would I want to do that? Everyone loves me and for those that don’t they get a sword up their asses.
ElderG: [Uninterested] Sure sure…
Grace: [Bonks ElderG in the head] Damn you listen to me! [Sigh] Ah, onii-chan, the old crone wants to meet with you. Also… [Whisper] father’s back.
ElderG: [Angry tone] He’s… here? That… bastard! [Starts walking] I’m going to rip that head of his-
Grace: Hey hey! Your appointment with Marag has higher priority then your old grudge. Go now. You can get back at him later.

I left, the rage inside me building with every step I took away from the street. Every now and then, I am confronted with the urge to turn back and settle the score, yet my pride and sense of duty maintains a firm grip over me. By the time my anger had subsided – not totally but just enough for me to regain control of my emotions - , I was standing in front of the entrance to the Citadel of Keepers; the single spiral tower that dwarfed all other towers in Voliskeel. Now that I mention it, all other towers that dot the city were exact copies of the citadels design.

I strut pass the guards, through the main doors and into the citadels grand hall, which also made up the hallway to the main tower. Supported by strangely curved pillars, the hall was both high and spacious, and long. Not surprising as this hall was going to accommodate every Keeper in Voliskeel at a time; all 400 thousand of them. If I had moved at my usual unhurried pace, it would have taken me an hour to travel the distance between the ends of the hall. Today, it only took half the time; I was in a hurry.

The Chamber of Existence was… in one word… massive. Light from the many mana lamps surrounding the chamber were unable the illuminate the upper parts, leaving it all in darkness. And from the darkness, gravitating directly above the center of the chamber was the largest diamond I had laid my eyes on; Soulsit Stone. Fascinating as it was, I diverted my attention to an old woman that had just appeared.

Marag: [Pleasant] It’s nice for you to come on such short notice. Sit, please.
ElderG: [Still angry] Yeah, REAL short notice. Make it quick lady, ‘cause I got business to attend to.
Marag: My my aren’t we a little agitated today. Your lust for vengeance is strong, yet I sense that your heart is not content and you harbor doubt and regret within.
ElderG: What do you know?
Marag: [Evil old woman grin ^^] You forget that I’m the Eternal Lady, boy. And… oh, what’s this? Interesting… this love of yours-
ElderG: Dammit, stop going through my mind!
Marag: Well, I can’t help it-
ElderG: [Frustrated] Just! …stop. [Calm down] You called me here about Impreda Keel, right?
Marag: Yes… [Taking out a large book from… somewhere] ‘When the shaft of light blind the horizon of day, let the shackles be undone and the duty be revealed.’ Extract 25 of Revelation 1476, Jurena section. Do you know what it means?
ElderG: Couldn’t make heads and tails of it. I don’t exactly ‘study’ the Karra Tö.
Marag: [Thoughtful tone] Hmmm, stupid too… (ElderG: Hey!) Listen here, boy. The next extract, ‘And MY Choice shall exist within Judgment, beyond its wrath shall he appear, duty in hand.’
ElderG: Now that was plain weird. Sounds like it’s talking… about… Are you implying that [pointing to myself] I’M Choice!?
Marag: As it has been reveled, yes.
ElderG: [Pause] …This isn’t what I expected. I mean… this duty… I-I can’t-
Marag: I fear that your doubt has taken root more deeply then I expected. You are rejecting the darkness within yourself.
ElderG: N-No I’m not! It’s just that-
Marag: Fear of rejection, fear of failure, they become the driving forces in your rejection of your other half. You have to realize that this isn’t the way to gain your love’s acceptance. You’re a Keeper; one that has acquired the true potential of the soul, both its light and darkness. Reject either and you shall be consumed by it. Understand that you cannot change who you are nor can you change who she is. If she can’t accept you for that, then your fate does not include her. Recite to me the runes engraved above the main gate.
ElderG: Karä Gei, Fölta Imia, Käisirũ Tö. [Pause] Preserve life, embrace love, fulfill duty.
Marag: Precisely. That is the basic precept of a Keeper, laid down by our Master, The Left Hand, The Keeper, Impreda Keel.
ElderG: But, what does it have to do with my duty and my love?
Marag: Everything. Our only reward in performing our duty is love; one true love preordained by destiny. That is the agreement The Keeper had with Destiny itself. And your duty is yet to be fulfilled.
ElderG: Then… I don’t really have a choice, do I?
Marag: [Chuckle] Interesting way to put the obvious. However, at your current state, you won’t survive the journey, yet alone fulfill your assigned duty. Heaven and Hell are very egger to continue where they left off ten thousand years ago.
ElderG: [Thoughtfully] Ten thousand years… the War of Destiny. Wait… The Keeper is here… the condition is met… [Looks at Marag] They’re restarting the war.
Marag: You’re not as dumb as you look. (ElderG: Of course.) As long as The Keeper remains in this reality, the harmony and balance of the universe becomes undetermined, allowing for the titanic battle between the two Powers. Notice that this wasn’t the effect when The Keeper entered this reality 3 months ago. That is because of the Seals.
ElderG: The Seals?
Marag: You’ve met a Seal; the Dark Sorcerer. With his counterpart, the White Mage, they become a deterring force, preventing either Powers from initiating the war. The next Seal lies beneath this citadel and it has been released. They are many other Seals The Keeper created, but the greatest one would be your duty.
ElderG: Explain.
Marag: When you meet The Keeper in the ‘place of existence’, you’ll be given 2 choices. The outcome of either choice is unknown, as neither choice has been elaborated in the Karra Tö, but it’s safe to assume that the choices will be the Powers. It is vague, I know, but one truth about your duty is that after it, all other Seals become obsolete. We are fortunate that the Powers have yet to know about this and are preoccupying themselves in unsealing the other Seals, allowing you a window to journey to The Keeper in relative peace. However, once they get wind of this, your companions will be your greatest foe.
ElderG: My companions? I never said anything ‘bout-
Marag: Didn’t The Keeper tells you ‘don’t come alone’? The crew you left behind will accompany you to the Chaos Dome but, they’ll try to influence you in your choice. Don’t blame them though; it is the influence of the Powers, simple because they can’t influence you directly.
ElderG: This is insane… is there any more that I should know?
Marag: Yes. (ElderG: Shouldn’t have said that…) You bear Soul, yet it is incomplete and hasn’t been Reborn. Unless that is done, your journey shall not begin.
ElderG: [Clenching fist] That guy… I’ll show him that I’m worthy of Soul.
Marag: Also, I think you should bring your companions here.
ElderG: Here? To Voliskeel? Marag… I know you are old and wise, but are you still senile?
Marag: Then it’s your job to ensure nothing ‘bad’ happens to them, especially her.
ElderG: Mind telling me why?
Marag: When they arrive, boy. For now, I suggest you release the trapped souls in Soul. And I’ll just… find something to do… [disappears]

Making my way through the corridors which lead to the opposite exit of the citadel, I stumbled upon an antechamber with a large door bearing the Keeper’s insignia; the twin sword. Out of curiosity, I gently nudged against the left door, hoping the massive door would swing just enough for me to have a quick look at the interior. The door, however, was either well oiled or made out of paper as it swung complete open, revealing the chamber it hid to my wide eyes.

Erected upright was a single marble arm holding a long dual sword. On the arm was a metallic interlocked circular bracelet, the same one that was on Keel. Funny, if I had stumbled upon this room years ago, I would have identified Keel at a glance. Also, there was a golden circle acting as a background. Come to think of it, it’s was exactly like our insignias. If so, than the dual sword must be Last Rite, the materialized form of The Keeper’s power in this world. And the place I am in is the Scale of Balance.

Much as I want to be here, my business is elsewhere. Taking my chances, I took the smaller door opposite the room. To my dismay, I was behind the citadel, directly I front of the tower of the dead; Ash Tower. Built from the ashes of our ancestors, it is the channeling point for Soul to return the souls it has collected back to their rightful place. At the base of the tower, I drove Soul into its ash wall, causing the sprites to be siphoned by the tower. I saw the many lives I had taken, all being directed to either Hell or Heaven. It is an irony, but for us, people who go against both Powers, our souls will remain in this world, returning to the Origin, the Universe.

Having done that, I made my way back to town to settle an old score.

@Reiz was thinking about Lamenn's note, when suddenly a huge pressure trying to compress him... he blocked it easily and tried to sense where it came from... He looked out from his window and there he saw a shadow standing on one of the rooftops... He recognized that power, and his eyes were in disbelief...

***

Angel was lying down, trying to sleep, when suddenly she felt like the room trying to compress her... she blocked it easily too, and looked out of the window, and saw he figure on the roof... she looked to her side and saw Reiz, his eyes full of disbelief...

***

Bean was eating in the common room when suddenly Gibb's voice filled his mind

Gibb: The Priestess is as confused as you are... Her only orders were to capture this Keel fellow, no more... The Warlock seemed to follow her, as if they were once best of friends...
Bean: Heh that trick of yours again?? You conjure pressure, then sneak into their minds??
Gibb: Yep... Cant do more though... They were more powerful as I expected... They saw me, lucky I was far away... Maybe there is more to it though, I don’t know...
Bean: What about Necrid?
Gibb: *silence* Darkness is consuming this city... The city is preparing itself for destruction...
Bean: *upended the table* I don’t need some stupid riddles dammit!!!
Gibb: The ground beneath the city knows this... and she prepares herself for it... When the time came, you, that girl and also that man you call DD have to be ready... More I don’t know...

Gibb's voice gone... Bean looked around at the shocked patrons, then paid the innkeeper more than enough to shut him up... Bean went to his room, and found Devanna, sitting on his bed, with a some sort of staff covered in white cloth across her leg...

Bean: You heard?
Devanna: For some reasons, your mind is open to me...
Bean: Then, what should we do?
Devanna: I will join your group for a while... See how things evolve...

And they both stare at the midnight sky, both wondering, what does Gibb meant by being ready...

***

Angel was in Reiz's room, discussing about the pressure they felt just now...

Reiz: It couldn’t be... A Conjurer's power... I thought they were wiped out from existence long ago...
Angel: What it is reason? Is it evil??
Reiz: I don’t know... Conjurers are mostly non-elemental... But they was no traces of evil in there... Last of the Conjurers, legends are true after all...

@Jester extracted his katar on his right hand and charged at Arghaim, who isn't that good in physical battle. Arghaim dodges the katar thrust and swings his staff at Jester. (from now I replace Jester = J, Arghaim = AR)

J jumped back and evaded that hit.

AR : Still as swift as before eh, Jester?
J : It seems that you are able to do some close combat as an Elementalist.
AR : There's more you shall see...  

AR began charging energy to his staff... and unleashed a strong fire from his palm, " Flame of Dark Desire!" The fire turned from red to black, and dashes to J.

J : Rhythm of the Moon, Trail of the Light, Take Form!, Light Barrier!!

~ A trail of light formed beneath Jester, forming a circle, and rose up to his body, expanded and form a sphere around him. ~

The fire cast by AG was then blocked by J's Barrier and he began casting another spell, "Seal the light, break the might, Frost Countdown!"

~ Ice began appearing everywhere, surrounding J and getting nearer to him. ~

J : Damn! MIRAGE!

J turned invisible and the Ice stopped appearing. AG stared in astonishment. He began looking everywhere to sight J. Suddenly, a hand appear from behind and grab his neck, then throwing him down to the floor.

AG tried to get himself up while J charges moon power into his katar. Just as AG stood up, J launched another hit, "Howling of the Moon!" He swings his katar right at AG. AG barely evaded it as he is too near to jump away. He moved to the side and the hit got the side part of his stomach. The hit vibrates throughout the area and send AG back, throwing him to the land.

AG : Uggh.. *raises staff* I call upon the power of Evil Nature, Grasp of Wind!

A strong gust of wind appeared and surrounded J, while embracing him, then began tightening, and causes pain, and made J immobile, vulnerable.

J : AHHHHH!!!
AG began swinging his staff around and cast the Fire of Dark Desire again. This time, it hit perfectly and sent J way back and stopped only after he hit a rock.

J : Unleash the Moon power! Moon Light!

~ A pillar of light appears on Jester and began draining his wound and injuries. ~

J : Damn.. that wasted a lot of the Moon energy I kept through the Meditation... You've gotten strong AG...

AG : Heh, that's why I'll beat you today! Frost Countdown!!

AG launches another attack while Jester stood there, charging up, and prepared for.....

J : "Moon Gravitation...."

J swings his right hand katar from left to right, thus making himself spin and hover above ground, he caused a beam of light appear on him. He stopped spinning and rested his hand on his left shoulder. His leg hits the ground and the swings the katar from left to right, thus making a combustion of light, which breaks all the ice and hits AG.

AG : .. You dispelled my Frost Countdown twice... *blood flowed from the mouth* Earth Punch!

A punch formed from the ground right beneath J hits him and made him fell on the floor..

AG : SHOCK WAVE!

A wave of light began trailing the land to J and when it was just a few cm away, Jester jumped up and landed on the other side, the wave made a turn and began chasing Jester. Without choice, J ran towards AG.

AG stared in horror, and began running away from J. Finally, The wave hit a rock, and breaking it into pieces. Jester stopped running and began using a power... an aura so strong is created that AG felt chill up his nerves. He began charging another power, "Phoenix Fire!!" He cast a fire magic that took a form of a Phoenix, thus hitting a larger area, burning them.

Jester then shouted : " Eclipse!!!!"

The day turn to night and then, no light at all, except the Phoenix Fire. J took the chance to cast Mirage and stay out of sight from the Fire. He ran towards AG and began unleashing the Second stage of Eclipse, a 32 quick hit from his katar. After consuming the light around them like a Black Hole, J's Katar is able to unleash quick and deadly hits, thus in around 5 seconds, which is the time needed for the light to come back from the sun, the 32-hit will be performed.

5 seconds later, the light came back, and AG is down on the floor with bruises over him. The phoenix is gone..

AG : You... beat me... Ugghg.... Except from the....fire I cast.. I see nothing... at all.... you've improved... you've.... ugh...

J : Arghaim, we were once good friends, because of your Jealousy, you've ruined yourself.. after this fight you'll not have energy to feed your Elemental power.. and they'll consume you instead.. I am sorry I can't help, Arghaim.

AG : It's okay.. I know it long ago that I would die like this one day, just that I can't believe that the person I fought would be you. I thought I could beat you, but I am wrong. I am sorry, Jester. Would you forgive me?

Jester : ... Of course...

AG : Thank.. you...

AG shut his eyes and his body began shattering away into sparkles of light.... a five coloured energy began leaving those sparkles of light and headed towards......

Jester : SIRROTH? .... What the...

Jester then summoned Valvaris to bring him back to Sirroth. And he headed to the inn...

J : Hey guys, I'm back.....

@In Angel’s room, both Angel and Reiz is wide-awake after the surprise “attack”.

Angel: So, what do you suggest?
Reiz: … Mind sealing. If there is really a Conjurer around, I don’t want my thoughts and memory lay unprotected, especially yours…
Angel: You worry too much about me, Reiz…
Reiz: Did I? What do you think is the reason of my worries?
Angel: … I am fine… It’s just that..
Reiz: You still cannot leave the memory of him behind, can’t you?
Angel: … I don’t know… It’s not like I can do much about my feelings…
Reiz: You can at least control it. And you know how much I…
Angel: … I am tired. Nights. *went back to sleep*
Reiz: Must you avoid this topic every time I bring it up?
Angel: …
Reiz: You care so much for him but you didn’t even want to talk to me.
Angel: *got up* Reiz… Please… we had already go through this before.
Reiz: Which was before I departed to take my Warlock Quest, how long was that?
Angel: We are best friends and full stop.
Reiz: If I refuse?
Angel: Reiz, you are making this hard for the both of us.
Reiz: THREE of us, you mean
Angel: TWO, just you and me.
Reiz: What about him?
Angel: That is between him and me.
Reiz: … I dun care! I won’t give up and you knew me better than anyone to have enough knowledge of what I am capable of and what I will do if I am desperate enough!!!  
Angel: Fine!! I AM TIRED!!

And with that, the conversion come to an abrupt end, with Angel tucking-in, still angry at Reiz for bringing up the long forgotten conversion they had years back….


*KNOCK KNOCK*

A young man was standing in front of a small cottage which was located just beside a green forest. The cottage was small, only capable in housing 2-3 person, with some furniture and kitchen utensils. This is the playhouse that belongs to two little kids, whom is now both young adults who had just reached puberty, one of them is this young man. The door opened from inside, a young lady, dressed in Priestess attire greets the young man with a generous smile.

Young Man: Angel!! Sorry, I am late.
Angel: Haha, you were always late, Reiz. Come in, I made some sandwiches.
Reiz: Awww… I am so sorry, okay? I was held back in class..
Angel: Again? What did you do this time?
Reiz: I forgot my incantation… haiz..
Angel: Hahahaa, how come? I thought you are brilliant in those.
Reiz: Was thinking about something else...
Angel: AHA!! So, what are you thinking about?
Reiz: … You said you made sandwiches? Where? I am hungry.
Angel: There, on the table.

Reiz walked towards the table and took the sandwiches, eating it slowly.

Angel: Hey!!
Reiz: Huh? What?
Angel: You still haven’t tell me about what you were thinking when you forgot your incantation!!
Reiz: … errs…
Angel: Come on, tell me!!
Reiz: … You…
Angel: Huh? Me? What about me? I am asking you about..
Reiz: Yes, I am thinking about you…
Angel: Heh? Why?
Reiz: I am going for my Warlock Quest soon…
Angel: … When?
Reiz: Next week. I… I need to tell you something before I go…
Angel: Go ahead and tell me.
Reiz: … *takes a DEEP breath* Will you marry me when I am back from the Quest?
Angel: … *dumb-founded* …  
Reiz: Will you? I know I am not the best guy, I am not strong and I am clumsy and everything, but, I will improve myself through the Quest, I promise!  
Angel: … I …  
Reiz: *looks at Angel, hoping*
Angel: I… I … I am sorry, Reiz… I… I treat you as my best friend all the while… I… I am so sorry…
Reiz: *staring at the floor* … Please…
Angel: … I can’t… I… I don’t want to cheat on you, Reiz. We are still friends.
Reiz: … Give me a chance, please…
Angel: Reiz, don’t…
Reiz: … *runs out of the cottage*

Angel follows suit, chasing Reiz while calling out to him. Reiz reached the bridge above the river and stopped. Looking back to Angel, with tears rolling down his check, he looked back to the river and all of a sudden, he jump into the strong current river.

Angel: REIZ!!!!!!!!  


Angel: COUGH! COUGH!
Reiz: COUGH! COUGH!!
Angel: You idiot!! Why were you thinking???
Reiz: …
Angel: You can’t swim and you jump into a river, are you mad!!!!
Reiz: YES!!! I AM MAD!!!
Angel: Reiz, please, don’t act stupid!!
Reiz: So, now I am stupid?
Angel: If you are not stupid then you are brainless
Reiz: And who makes me stupid and brainless?
Angel: …
Reiz: Angel, please, marries this stupid wizard and teaches him until he is no longer stupid..
Angel:  … What kind of proposal is that?
Reiz: A stupid proposal made by a stupid wizard?
Angel: …
Reiz: Please…
Angel: It’s getting late, and we are all wet. I am going back to the Guild to change. See you tomorrow…

@Jester: Hey guys, I'm back...

But to his disappointment no one from the group was there... It was late, maybe, he thought... then the bartender approached him

Bartender: Hey, you are friends with the short one rite?? Could you please tell him not to go berserk??
Jester: Huh, Bean?!
Bartender: The short one... He broke one of my tables. Even if he has paid for it, it still my precious table...
Jester: Ok...

Jester began to go up the stairs, but suddenly he felt as the air around him trying to crush him... He staggered, then released his magic to fend off the attack... He looked around, but saw no one suspicious... He wondered about the attack, he felt as if he recognized the power before... The power that was never been felt in the world of magic in a long time... Yet he continued on, and as he was about to knock on Bean's door, a woman's voice stopped from inside stopped him from doing that...

inside the room

Devanna: Why do you trust Gibb, Bean?
Bean: Huh? I don’t know... I trusted him from the days I was running, no reason not to trust him now...
Devanna: But...Do you know who Gibb really is, Bean?
Bean: Nope, I think he was just a middle-aged poor man who lives in the outskirts of the city...
Devanna: You really don’t know who he is?
Bean: Nope, why??
Devanna: You are pathetic...
Gibb: I realized it from the first time I saw him...

Gibb was sitting suddenly on the table, smoking his pipe...

Bean: Please Gibb, don’t do that again... I got a weak heart...
Gibb: Don’t drink too much then!! Btw, the moon guy is clear... Never knew he was the weakest though?
Bean: Huh, I tried out his power, but he's certainly formidable... Your pressure attack, he could fend it off easily
Gibb: Hmmm, if you say that, maybe he was involved in a battle of some sorts... Oh yeah your wolves died
Devanna: Wolves??
Bean: I was wondering about them... Wait a minute!! How did you know?
Gibb: When you break the hand... You can’t even feel I was invading your mind?? You are worst than the Warlock, Priestess or even that moon guy
Bean: Oh...
Gibb: One thing interesting though... It seems your wolves died in a specific trail... And it leads to a hidden cave near the mayor's house... Perhaps you should go check it out...
Bean: Ok thanks Gibb...

Gibb was about to leave, when Devanna stopped him...

Devanna: Tell me something before you leave... Why are you helping us? How can we trust you, when you, Gibbaral, the Last of the Conjurer, killed his own same kind and erased everything about the conjurer's arts with the help of demons!!
Bean: Huh, what??
Gibb: ...
Devanna: What are your reasons for helping us? Why do you kill the conjurers?? Bean can trust you maybe, but I'm not as thickheaded as him!!!
Bean: Thickheaded???
Gibb: One reason, to pay off my debts... If you are really the daughter of Karthok, you should know the real truth behind all of it...
Devanna: What? What truth??
Bean: Thickheaded? Gibbaral?? Could someone please explain it to me???
Gibb: The truth behind all of it... You should know... Good night...

And with that Gibb vanished... Bean still looked puzzled, as if demanding Devanna for an explanation... But Devanna just stare at the place Gibb stood...

Devanna: Damn shadows... No I will not explain it to you!! I'm tired, good night!! And don’t come near me if you don’t want to be pulverized!!!

Devanna laid down on the bed and slept, ignoring Bean, who was still looking puzzled... Then it dawned to him, that it was a single bed... Sighing sadly, he went to the couch, only remembering, there was no couch... Sighing again he went to a corner and huddled there with his cloak covering him, and slept...

Outside, Jester was shocked with the fact, that Bean was working with Gibbaral, who was missing since the incident that shook the world of magic... Bean was working with a man, who wont hesitate to kill his own kind... He thought that Gibbaral would have no problem killing who he called allies, and he wondered why Bean worked, even trusted this kind of man... Slowly he went to his room, and pondered about this... And also the matter with Arghaim after his death... What is the light? And why is it going to Sirroth??

Somewhere in Sirroth

: It seemed to me tonight was not a good night...
Necrid: Master??
: Arghaim is dead... And your minions had left a trail...
Necrid: Forgive me Master...
: It is ok... I got tired of waiting anyway... When the time comes you better be ready Necrid!!

@door opens

XsDenieD : sigh.....another slow day..

Xsdenied slings over his knapsack and pours out an assortment of items onto the table.

XsDenied : lets see what we've got today, hmmm....gold chains, rings........aahhh........wont be able to get much gold from that stingy old geezer with these stuffs.


goes to sleep......

@Jester was all astonished with the fact that Bean was actually working with Gibbaral, the Last of the Conjurers. He walked to his room, and went in, sat on the bed, and pondered.

Jester : That power... ' Mind-Pressure ' Conjure Magic. Unbelievable, he must've got all my thoughts... Bean, I must be cautious with this guy, he is far more dangerous than I expected.

*tap-tap-tap* Footsteps were heard moving closer to Jester's room. He quickly summoned Valvaris to send him down to the lower ground from the window. There came the knock, and after a while, it sprung open and Bean stood there.

Bean : Man.. He noticed me... How the hell he survives if he was to jump down that window.......

He turned out and closed the door.

Jester : Oh yea... they don't know about Valvaris, I could make use of this. *grin*

He walked to the front door of the inn and the bartender was shocked

Bartender : When did you???
Jester : Nevermind that, give me a drink, IMMEDIATELY *glare..*
Bartender : Yes.. yes...

Jester took a sip of drink and ponder again.

Jester : If anything were to happen, I would be force to use you..

*touches the word "God" (SHEN) on the forehead.*

Jester : *took another sip* If I were to unleash you, it could be risky. What should I do.....

He drank the whole cup and walked up the stairs, just to find a shadow jumped into Bean's room.

Jester : ... Did he saw what I just did.... That wouldn't matter...

He walked pass Bean's room and to Angel's.

*knock knock*

Jester : Angel? Are you free? I've got things to tell. *look around* Urgent.

_____________________________________________

@Angel was still sleeping when she heard someone knocking on the door. Sleepy, she woke up to answer the door.

*krekkkkk*

Angel: Who is that?
Jester: It’s me, Jester. We need to talk, it’s urgent.
Angel: Can’t it wait till morning? I am tired…
Jester: It’s really important..
Angel: Fine. Come in..
Jester: No, it’s private and confidential.
Angel: What? Oh.. okay, wait up *Angel walks back into her room, closing the door behind her. She came out minutes later, fully dressed*

Jester lead the way down, and out of the inn, heading towards town’s park which is located at the south-west of the inn. There, they choose a bench where the sit themselves.

Angel: So, what is this all about?
Jester: Do you know anything about Conjurers?
Angel: *surprised that Jester knew about Conjurers* ya, why?
Jester: I saw one just now… He’s with Bean.
Angel: Bean??  
Jester: Yes, they talked about reading our mind, mine, yours, Reiz’s…
Angel: What? … *Hem..  Looks like Reiz is right, there is a Conjurer around*
Jester: Do you know what Bean is up too? It seems weird that he is in contact with a Conjurer who happens to had demolish his entire tribe.
Angel: I don’t really know Bean, he joins us in the journey after the fall of King’s City…  
Jester: Hem… Won’t it be dangerous for all of us? Why does he need to know our mind?
Angel: Don’t worry too much for now. We hardly knew what is happening, but let’s keep an eye on him at the moment. I’ll have Reiz to seal our mind as a precaution. Anyway, I don’t think Bean is of much treat, he flopped like a jelly when he saw me Grand Ended the mountain near King’s City.  
Jester:  WHAT?? You can use Grand End? That’s an Infinite Level Spell, how can a Priestess use it?
Angel: …  I have no idea, so don’t ask me. Anyway, we better warn DD as well.
Jester: Ya. Can I ask you something else?
Angel: Yeah?
Jester: Where is the Keeper who is supposed to be protecting you now?
Angel: … Somewhere…
Jester: Huh? Where? I thought no Keeper is allowed to abandoned their task until they accomplished it?
Angel: … Look, this topic is closed, and I do NOT want to talk about it, and this is FINAL!!  
Jester: *looks at the threatening looks of Angel, GULP~~* Okay..
Angel: They are going to be up soon, we better head back to the inn.

Both of them walks back toward the inn, passing by the morning market that is full of traders and buyers. The variety of goods is unbelievable, almost everything is sold here. No wonder the thugs try to raid this city. Angel and Jester spent sometimes looking at the displayed items, buying some potions and essential items for safekeeping. While they heading back to the inn;

Angel: This place sure is a shopping paradise.
Jester: Hahaha.  

Suddenly a young man, wearing a white overall with light blue laces and brown common pants, with a large backpack on his back runs towards them, looking like he is in a hurry. Angel and Jester move sideway to give way to him, but unfortunately he crash straight towards Angel.

CRASH!!!

Angel: OUCH!!
: OUCH!!  I am so…. so… sorry.. I.. I didn’t see you.. *got up, cleaning his clothes and picking up books that fall off from his backpack*
Angel: … It’s okay.. *got up and cleans her clothes as well, Jester helps the stranger pick up his books*
: I got to rush, I am so sorry…
Angel: Oh, it is okay, be careful.
: Okay… thanks *rushes off*
Jester: Whoa! He sure is a super bookworm, carrying those books with him like that.
Angel: Haha, maybe he is a Scholar or something, late for class I suppose. Let’s go.  
Jester: Ya, okay.  

@The land of Mitrash is full of beautiful scenery, great people, magnificent people and many unbelievable artifacts. But only one city of Mitrash has the beautiful combination of the so-called Land of Heaven, the land where the famous Alchemist, Rutzen were born, the land of the Alchemy, named after him, Rutzengar…

Rutzengar is a small kingdom where thousands of Alchemist resides, learning the ancient Alchemy Studies. Rutzengar is situated North East of King’s City, protected by the ancient mountains fort of it’s North, their beautiful sun rise from the Great Reggar Sea and sets to the Lake of Melodian, the famous Proricient Forest down South provides them with endless supplies of all variety of herbs and medicine. The land of Rutzengar is shield from all ways attack and danger by all type of great enchantments and shield barriers, a great gift from their centuries-old gifted Alchemist, the descendants of the great Rutzen himself. One of the greatest shields is the Omega Shield, covering the entire land of Rutzengar, making it impossible for any magic or spells to penetrate the heart of the land.


A young man, of early twenties stroll the busy street of Rutzengar alone, his brown eyes gaze blindly at the varieties of items on display trays of the many shops along it. The morning is serene, with soft blowing wind and a clear blue sky. His dark blue hair flew along the soft breeze, touching his face. His costume is different from the normal light blue Alchemist attire; his was of pale yellow, stating a higher rank of his profession.

: *yawn* This is boring…

Two little girls from a nearby shop come running out once the caught a glimpse of the passing young man.

Girl A: ART!!!  

Both of them embrace the young man happily, pulling him into their shop for a stroll.

Girl B: Daddy wants to see you, Art
: Huh?  Why would your daddy want to see me, Serra?
Serra: I don’t know…  why don’t you ask Mirra? *Looks at the other girl, who is apparently older, judging by her heights*
: So, Mirra?  
Mirra: I don’t know too. But Daddy said it is very important.
??: So, you are here, Articulus urRendoure?
Art: Seems so. I was told that you want to see me?
??: Yes, let’s head to my studies.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Art: So, what is this all about?
??: There are rumours that a Warlock has claimed the Wraith’s Wand from the Frozen Throne.
Art:  … Interesting… Who?
??: We have no idea. Whoever he is, he is smart enough, he didn’t leave a single trails, making it impossible for us to follow him.
Art: So, what the guild wants me to do?
??: Apparently the guild checks through all existing Warlocks, they found something that might interest you.
Art: Oh, that’s rare…  
??: There is only 4 Warlock at the moment, 2 of them are currently enjoying the last few years of their mortal days before joining the Heaven as Minister, so they are out. Lamenn, the Elemental Warlock is currently researching new spells for the King, plus he use no dark magic, so he is out too.
Art: Aha? So, what about the last one?
??: A young Shadow Warlock. He had just finished his Warlock Quest, but he alone wipe out the entire dragons troop without any helps, and he has not even a single scratch from the dragons.
Art: Means?  
??: It means he is stronger than all the other 3 Warlock and he is your age.
Art: WHAT??  *Could it be him?*
??: Ha, you are interested, aren’t you?  
Art: Cut the crap, who is he?
??: He goes by the name Reiz Zamaleon, the sole heir to the King, the Crown Prince of Mitrash, your dearest childhood friend.
Art:  WHAT??? Reiz…
??: I am sure he will come looking for you to unseal the wand. The guild wants you to unseal it for anyway. Your task, Articulus urRendoure, is to unseal the Wraith’s Wand, to assist and protect the Crown Prince by all means, even if it takes your life. But be very careful, shall the Crown Prince show any sign of being used or control by the enemies, report to us immediately, and get help. And, your second task from our alliance, the Convent, protect Angel Louisnerre and bring her back to the Convent before the 12th moon safely. Understand?
Art: Yes!!

@When Jester and Angel reached the Inn, Angel walked towards her room and went inside. Jester went into his room and lie down on the bed.

Jester : Boring.... BORING!!!!!!    
Jeez.... hmmm.... hmm...

He stands up and flew down the window with Valvaris' help.

Valvaris : Why can't you just walk down the stairs, Jest?
Jester : Privacy matter  
Valvaris : Training again?
Jester : Yea, I have an idea to enhance my abilities.
Valvaris : As You wish....

Valvaris then brought Jester to the vast piece of land where he battled Arghaim and went back into the ring.

Jester : Ahh.. fresh air..... Absolute day for some training.

Jester sweeps his leg on the sand and formed a circle around him. He extracted his katar and cut his left arm and let it bleed.

Jester : From what I've learned... the Scroll of Lulianar, It should work.

He withdraws his katar and put his right hand in a way where the palm faces the sky.

Jester : Bestow me the power, let the tremor be hindered, let all blood be cleanse

A sphere of light formed above his palm and flashes yellow.

Jester : Moon, ON EARTH!!! (Moon on Earth)

He slammed his palm into the ground and a yellow circle formed inside the circle he made earlier, the whole surrounding turned dark, and the only light is the yellow circle (that looks like a moon).

Elsewhere ~>
Citizens :  
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Angel :  I sense power...
Reiz : I sense it too... so strong.... yet so.. harmless...
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bean :  Its Jester... his moon aura... can be THIS powerful?
Devanna : He cannot be underestimated.... but I sense no intention to destruct through this aura....

Back to Jester ~>
The circle expanded upwards, forming a pillar of light and Jester hovered above ground. His wound stopped bleeding and closed up.

Jester : Lunar Burst!

Elsewhere ~>
Angel :   I can't sense the limit of the power!!
Reiz : It’s too hard to believe, it was so peaceful a while ago!!!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bean : What is happening?!?
Devanna :   His power went to a point of destruction!!
Bean : Will the city be destroyed?
Devanna : No.. it seems that he restricted his power.

Back to Jester ~>
All the light gathered into Jester's body and blasted out like a nuclear bomb, lighting up the dark world. But it is weird that the power did not damage anything around. An invisible wall around Jester stopped all the power. It seems that Jester created a wall of Aura to stopped his own power while forming that Circle on the sand.

Jester : YES!!!!    I SUCCEEDED!!! WooHoo~~!!!! Yea! I love myself so much...

Valvaris then came out from the ring.

Valvaris : Congratulation, Jest , but it seems that you attracted too much attention, even now I can feel someone sensing what you just done.. And I think whoever that is, s/he is sensing my aura now..

Jester : Thank you...!>!?!?!?! Sensing you? No, you must get back into the Ring.. I'm going to make you my secret weapon!!!
Valvaris : But I can't fight...
Jester : I have my way Val...
Valvaris : Alright then, I'll be back to my leisure...  
Jester: Thank you.

Valvaris disappeared into the ring. Jester then walked towards the City, which might need a half an hour walk.

Elsewhere ~>
Devanna /Reiz (Yes, same time..) : I just sensed another aura around.
Bean/ Angel : What?
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Devanna : It seems that there's another Soul that's with the Moon Guy.. It feels like one of the Guardian Sprites.
Bean : Guardian Sprites?
Devanna : Yes.. the Sprites used to protect their Owner/Master, but if you befriend one of those, s/he will gladly attend your call. But they can't fight.
Bean : That means they're no harm..
Devanna : That's not necessary...
Bean :  What do you mean?
Devanna : They could assist their owner to a certain extend where they multiply their owner's power or even minimize the damage taken. Which make their owner stronger...
Bean : If Jester's a bad guy.. He could be disaster...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reiz : It seems that whomever that unleashed that aura just now, has a companion.
Angel : Companion? And how's the aura?
Reiz : Really weak, but it seems it is very protective. It is hard to sense further than that.
Angel : ... Wait... the aura before... it feels familiar...
Reiz : It's....
Angel/Reiz : Jester's...
Reiz : He is that powerful?
Angel : I don't know, I've never seen him in battle.
Reiz : We should be cautious.. it seems that he is no ordinary person.
Angel : I agree.. maybe I ought to test his powers....

@In town, a middle-sized man walked into an inn expecting a free meal. Half way through the meal, he was joined by 2 bodyguards (BG) employed by the inn to keep unruly patrons out of the premise.
Man : What do you 2 want? Your making me loses my appetite.
BG : Well, hope you enjoyed it. Seems like your not a local, aren't you?
Man : What makes you say that?
BG : From where we're from, there's no such thing as a free meal. Either you pay up, or you shut up and get out. *Holding their weapons under the table. The man gathers some energy in his hand but lets it dissipate. Then he talks to himself - "Why bother" and slowly picks himself up to leave. The bodyguards on the other hand, gave him the boot out of the inn as a quicker alternative. Left cursing outside the inn, the man broke a statue belonging to the inn before leaving*

Elsewhere, the search team disbanded. DD left for the mayor's residence with the stuff gathered form the forest in hand. The man from before bumped into DD, literally on his left.
Man : Watch where your going! *realizes DD has a grip on the back of his clothes* what do you want? An apology? An apology for wha~ *Finds himself flying in the air* Hey! *crashes into a pile of neatly stacked firewood being sold by a trader. He breaks free of the crumbled pile, and angrily tries to punch DD in the face. DD stood firm and grabbed the man's fist. The next thing the man knew was the smell of dirt and a painful sensation on his back. DD had flipped the man over his head and flung him on to the dirt floor hardly. Before he could retaliate, DD who still had the man's fist in his hand, lifted the man up and slammed him down on the floor again. DD continued it until when the situation looked bleak for the man. DD let go of his grasp as the man apologized with his last breath before fainting. Looking puzzled, DD looked at his hand before going to the aid of the man. Accompanying the man to a medical facility was the least he could do. Staying around for a while hoping to apologize to the man when he wake up, DD took some time to rest from the day's journey into the forest.

After some time, a group consisting of a man and 2 women entered the room. They looked at the injured man, then turned to DD. Noticing DD had not even a scratch on him, they turned their focus to the injured man again.
Man 1 : He'll never learn. *shakes his head* I told him not to underestimate anyone.
Woman 1 : Serves him rights. Knowing his thick headedness, I bet he still hasn’t learned yet.
Woman 2 : Sorry for the problems he caused you young man. He's a bit bad mannered so I hope you'd forgive him.
DD : It's part my fault too. I'm sorry. I didn’t intend to but.... *looks at the man*
Man 1 : It's ok. He's not dead yet.  *gets a stare from the second woman*
The injured man wakes up to a chorus of laughter from the group and sinks deeply into the sheets in embarrassment. Seeing the man was fine, DD took leave.
Injured (I) man : Groan... It hurts.... That guy almost broke my arm!
Man 1 : Who asked you to pick a fight?  
I man : Hey, it wasn’t my fault! He threw the first punch!
Woman 1 : To think you'd pass out when dealing with a human. And you didn’t even get an attack in. *the whole group laughs again*
I man : Seriously, there's something really wrong about that guy!
Man 1 : Why don’t you accept defeat graciously? We know you always underestimate your opponent’s right? (The whole group nods)
I man : But. but....
Woman 2 : Take it easy... You need to rest.... We're not going anywhere now, right?
Man 1 : Indeed. We'll have to wait for the energy wave to guide us, just like the one we felt in the forest.

In the mansion, the mayor assigned some people to help the investigation. Looking at the sketches of the scene, they could not conclude anything. DD then looked up to ask a question, but found the others
unconscious, having breathing difficulties. Soon after, they all got back up puzzled over what happened but continued the investigation anyway. Ariel joined in at this point and after examining the sketches for a moment, she noticed the blood trails were of different shades, indicating the tracks were made at different times but were facing the same direction. Drawing a guideline on a map, the line bypassed nothing of note except for the mayor's residence backyard, which also had nothing of note. DD spoke up, claiming there was a cave hidden by thick vegetation there but didn’t know how he knew it in the first place. The people then decided to probe into the area to confirm that the following day before going their separate ways.
Ariel : You must be tired from traveling today.
DD : Yeah.... But I had some rest at the medical hall a moment ago.
Ariel : You were at the medical hall? For what purpose?
DD : I'm fine... I accompanied someone there for treatment for the injury I unintentionally caused. Having said that, how's the solution to my problem shaping?
Ariel : I'll try to go through the procedures to get the stuff I need. Problem is, the heaven's gates are busy right now so I can’t get clearance to get in yet. If I really can’t get those stuff hopefully Angel can come up with a solution.
DD : I see...

Somewhere else, Gibb had his hand on his head.
Gibb : To have thought that guy would be the easiest picking for my mind probe. I couldn’t even get the pressure spell to affect him.  

In heaven, Keif notices the activity near the gates and moves from the library.

[Angel]

@Tomorrow morning... All of them ate breakfast together. Bean introduced Devanna to them as "an old acquaintance, I knew her from my time in... forgot its name". Reiz gave him a wink, and Angel smiled at him, Jester just nodded... But Bean noticed some tightness in Angel's smile, and Jester nod... He wondered what his wrong...

Bean: Say, Jessie... Where were you last night? I need to talk something with you...
Jester: Erm, nowhere... Why are you calling me Jessie?
Bean: Oh, just for fun  right Angie??
Angel Don’t you dare call me that!!!

Bean looked at Devanna for help, but instead she said...

Devanna: You will find a knife between your ribs before you can call me Devvy, or Anna or anything other than Devanna...

Bean sighed, and continued eating... Bean asked about DD, and the others said that maybe he was in the mayor's house... After breakfast, Bean lingered around for a while, while Devanna arranged a room for herself... Then she proceeded to have a little girls’ talk or whatever with Angel... Reiz was talking about something with Jester... Bean got bored and decided to go to the mayor's house... To the cave...

Bean approached the residence's backyard, trying to find traces and trails that Gibb spoke of, then suddenly he felt an aura surrounding him... He knew to whom it belong, but it was too late...

"REALM OF THE UNHOLY"

---

In the inn... All of them stopped talking as they felt the spell was released... Without a word they sped off to the place where it was released...

Elsewhere... Gibb was smoking his pipe, thinking about the situation when he felt the sudden surge of evil... "DAMN YOU BEAN!!! YOU THINK YOU'RE STRONG ENUFF?!! I TOLD YOU TO BE PATIENT GODDAMIT!!!" and went to the mayor's house...

---

In the realm... Bean stood on what seemingly infinite red ground... the sky was red and the sun was black... Bean felt uneasy, yet comfortable in that world

Necrid: Welcome Bean... to the realm where darkness and evil rules...
Bean: DAMMIT NECRID!!! WHAT THE HELL IS THIS??? WHERE ARE YOU?!!
Necrid: Oh, as I said... this is the realm of the unholy... which fortunately for me... you don’t know how to use it   now... Come to me!! Soul Crush!!

Bean felt his mind and body was suddenly crushed by an immense, almost infinite power... He doubled over, groping for some kind of strength to keep the power to completely destroy him... but he couldn’t... Bean started to scream in agony... In the infinite darkness of his mind, he began to search for a way to escape the pain

---

They have gathered behind the mayor's house, and what they saw there was a black dome...

Angel: What is that?? That black thingy...
Devanna: I don’t know... This magic... it felt like it was non-human...
Angel: Reiz, do you know about this?
Reiz: No... I don’t think so...
Jester: Me too... Somehow it is too... evil...

Somehow, the dome was cracking and pulsing at some places, and suddenly they realized the danger...

Devanna: Oh no... It's going to blow!!!

They began to shield themselves with their powers, but it was sapped somehow... Then a middle-age man ran past them, his knuckles beaming, and he punched straight at the dome just as it was about to explode with his right hand... Then the powers in his right hand spreads, and covered the entire dome... and the dome exploded...

The surrounding was calm... but yet they felt the pressure from the explosion... It could flattened Sirroth in a matter of seconds... In the middle stood Bean, eyes white, signs of him losing his mind... With a swift movement, Gibb punched him with the equally beaming left hand... Bean then began to cough out blood and felt unconscious

Devanna: Gibb, what...
Gibb: NO TIME FOR THAT!!! FIND THAT MAN!!!

They stood bewildered

Angel: Err, which one...

Gibb: THE MAN WITH THE ANGEL GODDAMIT!!! YOU’RE OTHER COMPANION!!! FIND HIM, ELSE HE WILL DIE!!!******

@It was a cold night at the Convent Guild. The whether is getting a little restless for the past few days. The wind is no longer soft and comforting but strong and harsh. The birds are no longer chirping happily, instead they are barely heard, taking refuge in the forest ground, in fact, most of the animals are. The wave of the surrounding ocean is high enough to create a mild tsunami; it is amazing that it still has not crash to the shore yet.

Inside the Guild’s Castle, the guildsmen were busy getting ready for something. They were decorating the Great Hall with a huge amount of decorative that fits a grand royal wedding. But no one knows why such grandeur was ordered. Not only the Great Hall, in fact the entire Castle and it’s surrounding is being decorated.


A young High Priestess was walking towards the Bishop room, with a tray of biscuits and milk. She reached the door, knocks softly, waited and entered the room.

: Father, I brought you some biscuits and milk. *Put the tray on the Bishop’s table*
Bishop: Matilda, how is the preparation?
Matilda: Good. Everything is in great order. We shall be able to finish before the big day.
Bishop: Good.
Matilda: but why such hurry? Shouldn’t we wait for Angel? She is the celebrated one after all.
Bishop: That is exactly why I do not want her around.
Matilda: Why?
Bishop: She has no idea of her real identity, it is not time for her to find out yet. Which is why she shall not witnessed her own “Blessing Ceremony.”
Matilda: But, what is the point of doing the ceremony without her?
Bishop: There is. The ceremony must take place even though she is not present, because it was meant to acknowledge her existence among her family, else she will not be able to return to them later.
Matilda: But they won’t know whether she really exists or not if she is not present right?
Bishop: They will know, they have their ways to find out.
Matilda: … I see. Very well, I shall resume my works. Good day to you, Father.

@The wind picked up a little, and “I have returned…” voice said. Looking around, they found no one. Thinking for a moment, they knew the voice was familiar. As the trees swayed to the movement of the wind, a person walked out from the shadow of the forest. Under the scattering light that illuminated the person’s face, they all knew who he was. DD. But there was something weird about him. He had a menacing look in his eyes, a far cry from his usual calm and easygoing sight.
Angel : DD, is that you?
DD : He is…… asleep……
Gibb : We’re too late! Yewa has awakened!
DD : Yewa? It’s been some time since I last heard the name…… My gratitude to Necrid for casting the Unholy Realm…… Now I walk the mortal realm, again… They used to call me … The Reaper. *looks elsewhere* Leaving so soon? *thrusts his hand into the shadow of a tree and grabs Necrid who was hiding in the shadow since Gibb destroyed his spell* It seems that my skills haven’t been forgotten. I must thank you and your master for your treatment decades ago…
Necrid : Your skills may not have been forgotten but regrettably, we cannot forget your deeds either! *Turns around while holding DD’s hand and forces him to the ground* we will never forget them!

-~> Now Yewa is in control of DD so using his name

Reaper : Still bitter over your friends’ death? It must have been hard on you. *A strong surge of energy blew Necrid and the others who were attending to Bean away*
Jester : *rolls up his sleeve* I’m going to help him.
Angel : No… He is no longer the person we know.
Necrid tries to blast Reaper with a magic bolt. Single handedly, Reaper caught the incoming bolt and slowly crushed it in his palm. A flurry of spells followed, but they hardly made Reaper flinch.
Reaper : This is getting old. “I call upon the light, suppress the darkness! Sacred Bind!” *beams of light gather and tie up Necrid. Immobilized, Reaper approached Necrid and choked him with 1 hand.*
Necrid : Are you going to kill me? Like the way you killed my friends?! Huh?! Answer me!
Reaper :I am not to blame. If you want to blame me for your friends’ death, blame your friends for their lack of judgment. For incurring the wrath of Heavens, their blood stains the hands of Heaven. For you, you should have eliminated long time ago for the same reason. “I call upon my protectors, my subjects that have served me well in the past, to come reunite with me!” *An armor materialized on Reaper’s body, and Necrid’s gift – the bone cross was formed from bones rising from the ground with one difference, one edge was replaced with a blade. Now, it resembled a scythe more than a cross.* Now close your eyes and find forgiveness from those you harmed. *Prepares to behead Necrid, but the beams of light dissipated. Necrid promptly disappeared into the shadows.* what is he worth to you?
: More than you’ll ever know. We will meet again.
Reaper : *laugh* “Meet again?” I’ll be waiting. *laughs again*

Back in the background, Jester was discussing things with Angel.
Jester : I thought you said he was a demon lord? He’s fighting Necrid?
Angel looks as dumbfounded as the others. They then approached Reaper. Before they could touch him, he mumbled.
Reaper : “Kill him if he acts weirdly” eh? What a laugh. *without any notice, he slashes everything close to him. Everyone scrambles away just in time.
Reiz : Hey, how did you know that?
Reaper : Try to steal my mind? On the contrary, I stole his mind.  
Angel : We thought you were evil! We never knew you’d be an enemy of our enemy?
Reaper : “An enemy of my enemy is my friend”? Is that what you’re suggesting?
Angel : Yes.
Reaper : *Laugh* I won’t be fooled by those words again. “Rise from the darkness and set ablaze the spirits, Silent Blaze!”
The area is soon engulfed in dark fire, harming nothing physical but burning all that is spiritual. The trees that got burned by the fire started to wilt as its spirit has been burned away. As everyone was scrambling just to avoid the flames, Ariel dropped by.
Jester : I don’t care what you say. I’m stopping him.
*sends a spell at Reaper but Reaper just stood there, withstanding the spell with nothing more than a scratch. Noticing his spells wont work, Jester changed tactics. He cast another offensive spell and tried to follow up with a swift blow to Reaper’s neck while Reaper was forced to defend, hoping for a KO. Reaper stood there, deflecting the spell away before setting up a counter. Flipping his weapon so that the longest end was protruding, he had a range advantage compared to Jester’s Katar and he aimed for Jester’s head as he came in. For some reasons, he missed when it seemed harder to miss. Ariel, not knowing what is happening, stepped in to separate both of them.
Reaper : I see you’ve awakened. Go to sleep, you have nothing left in this world. You don’t have to suffer in this world anymore. Let me carry your grudge against fate for you. ………. ? *looks at Ariel* Let me help you.
Reaper gathers the same energy he used for Silent Blaze and blasted Ariel at point blank range. A plume of smoke and dust was kicked up, and there was nothing left of the place Ariel once stood presumably because she was a spiritual body to begin with. Reaper laughed out loud, but was soon on his knees.
Reaper : Why do you resist even harder? Now you truly have nothing to look back in this world. Leave your fight with me and rest.
Sensing an opportunity, everyone attacked Reaper simultaneously. Knowing that he couldn’t fend all of them off while he only had partial control over DD, he decided escape was the best solution. In a bright flash, he disappeared into thin air.

Somewhere in the city, he reappeared.
Reaper : I concede that as the original host of the body, you hold more control over it. But remember, when your consciousness weakens, I will return.
The menacing eyes of DD were soon gone, replaced by eyes that were filled with tears. Ariel died in his hands, and he could not forgive himself. For now, he could do nothing but try not to let Reaper return. The problem is, he doesn’t know how long he has before his body starts to yearn for rest. If he falls asleep, the Reaper would return. Staring at the clear skies, he was very sad for the cruel fate that has followed him since his early days.

Back at the scene, someone said “So, he has returned……..”

@Reiz:  That’s it, I am so going to kill Lamenn!! Damn him!!
Angel: It’s not his fault!
Reiz:  Not his fault? He didn’t tell me everything he knows and we lost DD now!!
Angel: I don’t think so. I can sense DD now, somewhere in the town… but the aura was weak… not enough for me to detect the exact location.
Jester: Whatever it is, do you think you can save her? *looks at the where Ariel dust is*
Angel: *walks toward Ariel's dust and starts to check* I am not too sure, it will be tough. She is not a mortal and the wound is a serious one…  
Reiz: Try it. The revival spell.
Angel: ... I'll try. *took a deep breath* God of the Death, Mother of the Earth, grand me your power to bring home the lost soul, grand me the power to re-ignite the body, and with that I shall bring life back once more, LIFE-BRINGER

Ariel's body starts to form again in mid-air, slowly taking the full form of hers. her body glows a bright yellow and landed softly on the ground. Reiz took off his cloak and cover Ariel's body with it.

Reiz: Resurrection?
Angel: I can't. The spell failed. I only manage to recreate her body, Her Soul is still in Heaven.
Jester: Ask her to go into her body?
Angel: No, she cannot. The body is not an open vessel where you can go in and out as you wish. I need to cast another spell to enable her to get in.
Reiz: What r u waiting for?
Jester: Yeah, cast it.
Angel: Not here. I need a place with all 5 elements.
Reiz: Convent…
Jester: Then what are you waiting for?
Angel: It will takes us 2 months to reached the Convent Guild.
Jester:  2 months? She will be unsaveable by that time!!!
Reiz: No need to shout, we know that. I can froze and keep the body in another dimension. That way her situation will not worsen and her body won’t rot either.
Angel: Fine…


ARRRRKKKKKKKKK………..

They look back at where the voice came from and found Femara flapping her wings madly, obviously happy to see them.

Angel: Not now dear… we just lost a friend…
Femara: … arkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
Angel: You know that I don’t understand your arking dear, so don’t push it…
Reiz: She said she know and she found something in the forest.
Jester: You understand dragonish?
Reiz: Of course. I am a well-studied Warlock.  
Femara: aaaarrrkkkkk ark arrrkkkkk
Reiz: She wants you to go with her, Angel…. Alone.
Angel: Huh? Why me alone?
Femara: ..arkkkkkkkkkkkkk ark arkkk
Reiz: Because she apparently don’t trust any of us here... what an insult.
Angel: They are all my trusted friends, it’s okay.
Femara: arrrkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk
Reiz: She said ElderG was your boyfriend but he betrays you too, so she won’t trust any one of us.
Angel:  WHAT? He is NOT my boyfriend Femara!! You say that again, I’ll make dragon stick out of you!!!
Femara: ARRRRRRRRRRRKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKK
Reiz: You are scaring her, Angel.
Angel:    She deserves it!
Jester: I think you better follow her and see what she wants to show you. We’ll get this done, don’t worry, okay?
Angel: …  Okay…
_________________

@night approaches... with difficulties Devanna and Gibb transported Bean back to Bean's room... It's hard to do it, considering levitating people is not a common eyesight in a normal community... They somehow managed to keep Bean alive with a bit of healing potion that Gibb had...

Devanna: Will he be all right??
Gibb: *sigh* Why are you caring for him so much??
Devanna: I don’t know... And why are YOU cared about him so much???
Gibb: ... A debt I have to repay...
Devanna: ...Will he be all right? And please be serious please...
Gibb: ... I don’t know... really... there is nothing in my powers I could do... even the strongest potions that I have couldn’t save him...
Devanna: ... Why you do that? Why you punch him with that power??
Gibb: If I don’t do that, who knows what he will do to the city? That is the only way, to block it...
Devanna: ... Why? ...
Gibb: When the dome shattered, I probed his mind for a while... You know what I found?
Devanna: What??
Gibb: ... Nothing... nothing at all...

Both of them fell silence... and watching Bean breathed heavily, almost gasping for air

Devanna: He lost his mind?
Gibb: I don’t know...
Devanna: DAMMIT!!! THEN WHAT THE HELL DO YOU KNOW?!!
Gibb: Not as many as you do... You need to learn what Bean failed to learn... and that is PATIENCE!

Devanna silenced, and sat down besides Bean, watching him as he struggled in every breath he took. Gibb began to smoke his pipe and went to the window...

Gibb: To cure him, we need either one of two... A power that is pure evil, or pure darkness... That is why we need that man, or better still Yewa himself, for he is both... Don’t you dare try to heal him with your powers, you will only worsen him... His elemental powers are now fully released... That is why I gave him the other punch, his potential are now fully unlocked... But even if he was cured, I cant say the same thing about his mind... for now give him the potion, I will return tomorrow...

Devanna said nothing, and just sat there watching Bean... She couldn’t believe it, the other pillar, the dark symbol of the world's balance... is now dying, crippled and maybe crazy. Gibb watched her for a while, then said...

Gibb: If this could gain your trust on me... The reason why the Conjurers was wiped out by me, is hidden in that two punches... Why I helped Bean, the reason is also in that... And I think... I think Bean wished for that punch too... If I was him, at least, I would...

Gibb vanished, and Devanna just sat there, wiping tears on her cheeks, though she couldn’t comprehend why does it flows...

-----

Somewhere...

: Yewa is awake... Is this a blessing or a curse? How do you feel now Necrid?
Necrid: I am fine master, though I will need some time to rest...
: How long?
Necrid: 2 days, for me to return to full power...
: Good... very good indeed... Our plan didn’t work, thanks to that cursed Conjurer...
Necrid: Forgive me master, my minions had overlooked this man... since I didn’t considered him important...
: It is fine, Necrid... Our plan succeeded partly, Bean is now unleashed, and so will a TRUE Dark Sorcerer will rise, for now he is curable only with power that is evil... If only you didn’t let him escape Necrid, this will be easy...

@After Angel had left,
Reiz : Jester, I'll take care of Ariel and send her to the other dimension for the body freezing process, you check out on Bean.
Jester : Okay, we'll meet back at the inn.
Reiz : Kay.

Jester dashed off, until Reiz is out of sight, " Valvaris, bring me back to the city's Inn."
Valvaris : Yes, Jest.
---------------------------------------------
Reiz : Its this aura again, darn, if it wasn't for this urgent matter, I would've find out who u are.
---------------------------------------------
Jester reached back at the Inn,

Jester : Thanks Valvaris.
Valvaris : You're welcome. *Teleported back into the ring*
Jester ran up the stairs and headed to Bean's room. He knocked on the room's door, and shouted for Devanna and Gibb.

Devanna opened the door, " Gibb left."
Jester : .... What?! When Bean's in this condition?
Devanna told Jester all that Gibb said. Jester only nodded. Devanna asked Jester to keep it secret to the others.

Jester : Then why did you tell me?
Devanna : I need some help, I think you're more trustable than the others.
Jester : And I don't hope we lose Bean as a friend, and balance of the world.
Devanna : It's really astonishing for a 16 years old like you to know so many things.
Jester : *mumble* there's more that you don't know.......
Devanna : What?
Jester : Nothing... I sensed Reiz's aura, I'll meet up with him first, don't worry, I'll keep it secret for the mean time, cause it'll be dangerous if the condition worsened.

Devanna smiled and nodded. Jester ran down the stairs.

Reiz : Jester, how's Bean?
Jester : Alright for now, he's in an unconscious situation.
Reiz : Okay, I hope all is well. By the way, what was that aura that was with you right after u left me?
Jester : Errrr....  What aura?
Reiz : Jeeesstterrrr.....
Jester : I wonder how's Angel doing, better go back to where we gathered just now..

And he dashed off to the place, of course, without using Valvaris.
Reiz : Hmmm.... *caught a sight of his ring that was flashing green when he ran* Suspicious ring..

@Angel climbed onto Femara, who immediately took off into the heart of the forest. Femara landed right on top of a huge tree, which is almost 200 feet tall, with amazing sky view of the nearby lands. The clouds are so close by that one feel like they’re on Heaven. Angel dismounted Femara, onto the soft land covered by a canopy of yellow daisies. There are no other plants around, but an opening into a cave at the far end of the plank.

Angel: … This place… It’s as if it is build on top of this tree…

Angel walks toward the cave entrance with Femara, at the same time looking around to see if there is anything at all other than the cave and daisies. Apparently, there isn’t any. They both reached the cave entrance to discover an old man sitting right at the cave way.

The man is very old, judging by the silver of his hair and his long beard. He is a peaceful-looking man, very serene but mysterious, yet calm and possessed a great sense of security. He wore a light green robe tied with a silver sash, and a matching head cap.

Old Man: Welcome, Angel.
Angel:  How do you know my name? And who are you?
Old Man: I am the Enlightened One, your great-grandfather.
Angel:  WAT?? Very funny. As if  
Old Man: I am not at surprised by your reaction, judging from the fact that you grew up far from your father.
Angel:  You knew him?
Old Man: Of course, he is my son, how else will I become your great-grandfather?
Angel: Tell me who he is then.
Old Man: No, you shall find out yourself, if you have enough faith to face your destiny.
Angel:  Lame excuses, Old Man.
Old Man: Excuse or not, you will find out soon enough. You have a very clever dragon over there. She found me when she was scouting around.
Angel: That doesn’t matter. Tell me about my idiot father.
Old Man: Idiot?  That’s a very rude way to addressed your father, dear child.
Angel: I am polite enough to call a good-for-nothing-so-called god- who-don’t-even-care-about-his-very-own-child as a father    And I don’t allowed people to call me “dear child” especially those I do not know.  
Old Man: But I am your…
Angel: Great-grandfather who doesn’t care enough to even gives his name?  
Old Man: Ah, please forgive me, but usually people don’t care about my name. I guess the case is different with your grandchild, eh? I am Wizuen Atrushen Mouide Louisnerre, 2nd generation of the Louisnerre family.
Angel: …
Wizuen: It’s alright to be suspicious. I have no reason to provide to enable you to trust me. But bear it in your mind that whenever you need guidance or company, I am here for you. Your dragon will take you here.

@Insides Bean mind...

Dark, so dark... cant see a thing... Where am I? Why am I floating in this darkness?? Ouch, what pain... what happened to me? Why am I hurting all over? Where is everyone... Angel, DD, Arial... Devanna... Where are you guys... Dammit, it hurts... my body, it hurts all over... I can’t stand it anymore... Kill me!! Someone, please kill me!!! Anyone, please... kill... me... please...

: It seemed to me that Karthok's daughter has good perception...

Huh, who's there?? Please... Kill me... free me from... kill me... this agony... kill me... please[/]

: Look at you. Do you know how useless and pathetic you are, begging for death???

I don’t care... I just want to be... Kill me... Can’t stand it anymore...

: Useless brat!! WHY DOES THE STAFF CHOSE YOU!!! You know nothing about magic, you don’t know even about the elements!!! You are lucky that angel gave you that necklace, you know, or else you would be burning in hell now!!!

Please... Kill... me...

: Pathetic, worthless maggot!! If you were a normal person, I would gladly do that to stop hearing your whining and make the King of Hell endured it instead... But I'm not allowed... Unless it has chosen another... Unfortunately it hasn’t, and which the world is stuck now with you...

What... Who... who are... you?

: Oh good, at least you stop whining... Now, this will hurt A HELL LOT more. Prepare yourself!!!

Wait... who... ARGHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!! STOP IT!!!!!!

-----

Devanna didn’t know when she had fallen asleep, maybe it was after Jester had left, but she was awoken when Bean suddenly trashed around, his back arching dangerously... Devanna stepped back, watching him fearfully, tears of sorrow and pity rolling down her cheeks. she cried for him to stop, but he wouldn’t. Then she felt an enormous aura filling the room. The aura was menacing, dark, but meant no evil, but since her element was light she felt weaken. She reached for the clothed thing that her father gave her, and she felt refreshed suddenly. She held on to it, as the aura slowly subsided. She tried to trace the origin of the aura, and she was surprised as it came from Bean. He had stopped trashing, and for some reasons his breathing is almost normal, still heavy, yet not gasping...

-----

The pain was gone just as suddenly as it appeared. Apparently he was cured, yet in a cruel way. Then he heard the voice once more...

: Never meant to be gentle with you anyway... But that is all I could do. That Soul Crush and Hand of Light almost destroyed you... The rest, it all depends on either you, or someone could find you a pure dark source for you to sap...
Bean: Who are you?
: Shut up!! Listen to me!! I only cured your soul, even that is not fully healed... I only can go as far as I am allowed. The rest, like I said, is depend on either you or someone from outside found you a good dark power source to heal you. It is a good thing Gibbaral was there, even the Gods don’t know what will happen to you if you are unleashed...
Bean: Huh? What do you mean?? What happened??
: Karthok and Devanna said you have the potential... You have shown it so many time, but what they failed to realize is that, unlike me, that HOW BIG your potential is...
Bean: What are you talking about?
: You are the first outside my direct lineage to have the staff, yet you are maybe the strongest of all... Devanna, too, is not of Karthok direct lineage, but her potential is yet untapped. But maybe Destiny had made it this way...
Bean: What?? I don’t understand... Devanna is not Karthok's daughter?
: Nope, she was adopted. She knew it maybe, but she called him father and he regarded her as her daughter. Enough about her, enough questions!!!
Bean: But...
: Silence!! Now hear me. When you go berserk, it is called Unholy Rage, but far from its name implies, you CAN be sane while you are in it... At least you will not kill your friends and comrades... When you heal yourself, I want you to think about how to control it too... Inferno, I think you can summon it, so as necromancy, and your dark aura also... But it will not be enough. Karthok has given the spells right?? While you are healing your mind, I suggest you go over it and master a few perfectly... And perfectly means, that you don’t need to go sap some powers when you cast a spell!!
Bean: But how...?
: Fool!!! Look around you, and then think who you are.
Bean: (looks around) Nothing but darkness here, can’t see a thing... (understands finally) Oh, I am dark elemental, right? sorry...
: Worthless fool... I will help you but not much. you have to draw the powers yourself, and cast the spell yourself... And mind you, here is much difficult to do that than in real world... This is pure darkness, and it is easier to lose yourself in it, and turn into something you wouldn’t want to be. But it's a good training though. With it you could handle yourself in the real world, if you could handle it here...
Bean: Who are you, by the way?? And... Where am I?
: ... I am Rygar, the Dark Sorcerer before you, and this is THE REAL Realm of Unholy, created by the Creator himself... Enough questions. Now be ready!

@Femara flew Angel around the surrounding forest before Angel left for Sirroth alone. Femara stay in the forest ground as usual, a dragon is definitely not a welcomed sign in any town, especially after the raid on King’s City. Walking alone back to Sirroth, Angel has many thoughts round up in my mind at that moment. The encounter with her great-grandfather, Wizuen is not something she describe as a pleasant reunion, in fact it make her feels worst now that she know that it isn’t going to be easy to find her pathetic father to avenge her mother’s dead. And Wizuen sure is a tough nut to crack. It will be a miracle if he actually going to lead her to her father. For the first time in her life, she felt completely useless. She has been the best Priestess around, her ability to cast uncastable magic and sorcery by other Priest makes her special, she has always been proud of herself, proud of her power, proud of her achievement in such a young age. But now? So many unfortunate episodes have taken place since she took her first task, she is beginning to loose faith to the Convent. The King City destroyed right after her acceptance to the task, she wipe out an entire tribe in the nearby forest, trapped herself with a dragon when she is a complete mess with dragonish, loss her best friend to her love, later betrayed. And now, almost losing Ariel and DD. Her world seems to be collapsing on her. Clueless in her mission to find Keel Impreda has make her angst and depressed.

___________________________________________________________

Art is scatting through the forest that lays on the outskirt grounds of Sirroth with his Wind Surfer.

Art: Man, this forest sure is thick. I wonder when I’ll be able to reach Sirroth.

____________________________________________________________

Jester was running as fast as he could towards the forest, with Reiz behind him.

Reiz: HEY!! Slow down will ya? Do you have to run that fast? *out of breath*
Jester: I am worried okay?
Reiz: DANG! I hate running, WIND SURFER *immediately, a gush of wind gathers below his feet, lifting him of the ground. That gush of wind starts to form itself into a thin plank, supporting Reiz on top of it, moving forwards with tremendous speed*
Jester: HEI!! That’s not fair!!
Reiz: What? I am not racing you.

***********************************************************

They met Angel half way into the forest. She was walking slowly and she seems to be sick.

Reiz: Angel, are you alright?
Angel: I need some rest…
Reiz: Okay, we’ll head straight back to Sirroth. *He took Angel onto his Wind Surfer and took off, leaving Jester running and cursing behind them*

Elsewhere in Sirroth, the sun is rising to another beautiful morning.

@Jester stopped running when he lost sight of Reiz and Angel.

Jester: Okay, rest first, *huff puff*, then back to the city... *huff puff*...

He sat on a huge rock there. He breathed in heavily after the running.. suddenly, his eyes flashed.

Jester : An aura approaching...
Valvaris : He is using WindSurfer, whoever he is.
Jester : Absolute, the same wind aura as Reiz's magic just now.
Valvaris : But hey, I prove more useful that those traveling magic.
Jester : Yea, but I suppose it is not a problem to anyone...
Valvaris : His aura is weak... now that is.
Jester : But we must not let our guards down. Too many things happened these days, Arghaim's pursue on me, and the direction where the Five Elements of Dark flew. This aura might be weak, but there is a possibility he compressed it, or maybe he's exhausted.
Valvaris : True.. True..
Jester : Nevermind that, I'll keep an eye on the aura in town. Val, bring me back to the town.
Valvaris : Okay  

Jester is then 'engulfed' in the wind Valvaris generated and flew to Sirroth. They stop right at the entrance of Sirroth and Valvaris returned into the ring.

Jester : Full moon is in few days time, another night of Light Meditation and I can come out with another new technique... *smile*

He walked into Sirroth and headed towards the inn. Then, something caught his attention,

Jester : Astonishing speed, that aura is so near to the city already, right where Val and me took off....

Look up to the sky,
Jester : Its late morning, with such speed it'll be early afternoon when he reaches here....

He then took off at a hasty pace towards the inn, walked in just to see Angel and Reiz already there.

@Morning came, the sun was shining quite beautifully. Gibb paused from his walking towards the inn to enjoy it.. He had experienced this type of morning many times before, but today was a bit special. Maybe he thought about the darkness that he told Bean about, and wondered if the Mother Nature knew about the fall that about to befall her lands. He sighed, and continued on to his inn...

----

Devanna was in her room, enjoying the bright sunshine. It seemed to her that yesterday's event was gone, only the fact that Bean lied on his bed, fighting for his life, after two serious blows, one after the other. She wondered why does the Staff chose him... He was never a sorcerer, he wasn’t even good in elementary magic... The only she knew about him, is what her father told her, that his power was huge and untapped...

----

Bean was focusing very hard, filtering every power that he sapped from the realm. It wasn’t easy considering how fragile this realm is, like Earth herself... But what he was absorbing now is also dangerous, concerning the fact that this power could turn on him and devour him instead. When he felt he had enough he released it and reconstructed his soul. Rygar said that it was a blessing in disguise that Necrid used it on him, that Necrid almost destroyed his soul. His soul can be reconstructed to better suit the power that was in him, as long as he was able to keep sane about it. He remembered what Rygar said about Light and Dark.

Rygar: Darkness is not evil. In fact it is a necessity that darkness exists. Take this simple example, fool... Would you sleep better in the dark or in total sunlight?? That is why we exists... To balance out the Light in this world... Now get back to work!!

----

Gibb arrived at the inn. In broad daylight he preferred a more subtle way in approaching Bean, and that is the way of a drunkard. But unfortunately today, the Priestess and the Shadow Warlock was there, and it seemed to him that she was not in a good mood, or otherwise... And as he was about to ascend the stairs, the Warlock blocked his way...

Reiz: Well then, I think we should have a little talk, Conjurer...

Gibb said nothing. At almost the same time, he noticed Jester had arrived at the inn. Angel noticed him, and motioned him to follow them...

They entered Reiz's room, and before Gibb had even a chance to sat down...

Reiz: Now talk!! What is your business with this?? Why are you probing our minds???
Gibb: *sigh* Then tell me, Warlock... What is YOUR business in this?
Reiz: I ask the question here!! Not you!!!
Gibb: Then I answer... My reason is mine alone. Satisfied?
Angel: It seemed to me that you are forgetting, in what situation you are now in, Conjurer!
Jester: Yeah, there are three of us, and one of you!
Gibb: ... Maybe it's true, but it seemed all of you are forgetting who I am!
Angel/Jester/Reiz: ...
Gibb: Yes... "The Last of the Conjurer"... the name that was given to me by others... And I assume you know all know to what extend a Conjurer powers now, do you?
Reiz: That doesn’t mean we can’t beat you?
Gibb: Oh, maybe, just maybe... But let me tell you something, Warlock. I have been in the world of magic longer than you. And I know what you can and cant do, and your weakness Warlock!! But what do you know about me??
Angel: ... But why?
Gibb: Why what? Why do I probe your minds? Because Bean told me to do so, he is as confused as you are concerning the current situation... He is not trusting anyone right now. Not after what he had been through... And why I kill my own kind?? That riddle is you to answer. You are all bright enough to be where you are now, you must be certainly bright enough to know why I had to do it!!!
Angel/Reiz/Jester:...
Gibb: As assurance, I tell you this... Devanna asked also about this, and I have given the same answer. You know what the Conjurers capable of, and what of his limits... Limits that was regulated to us, who dwindle in the art of magic!!

When it seemed to him that no one will block him of his way, Gibb prepared to leave. But Jester then stopped him.

Jester: You said that Bean trusted no one right now, but he trusted you... Why is that?
Gibb: ... He was no magician. He didn’t know about your clan, Lulianar. He knows nothing about you, other than your greatness, Shadow Warlock. He even will not recognized you Priestess. All he knew, was what he heard about, and he haven’t heard about The Last of the Conjurer... That was one reason, and there is another...
Jester: And what is it?
Gibb: That I will not betray him. During his run from Necrid, he was betrayed many times, and every time he narrowly escapes... An angel also betrayed him, which was more devastating than others... But I will not betray him, not for the sake of myself, because I have a debt to repay.
Angel: A debt??
Gibb: As I said... You are all bright, to reach the level which you are now... It is all connected, just like we are. I don’t know what Destiny holds for you, but we are all in it together.

And with that Gibb left, leaving them to ponder about what he had said...

@After talking to Gibb, Angel and Reiz sat down by a table and started discussing, Jester walked out of the room and went back to his own room. He opened the window and used Valvaris to fly up to the roof. He sat down and started staring at the vast piece of land right in front of him.

Jester : Too many things happened, I don't know what to do. I am only 16, Val, is this my destiny?
Valvaris : Maybe, ever since you've been known to have the Blood of the Moon.
Jester : Gibb said Bean knew nothing about my tribe, I wonder who would have known. A Lulianar only exist once every 100 years.
Valvaris : ..... Play the song, Jest.
Jester : .....  
Valvaris : To help relieve you and the others, you know the effect of the song.
Jester : *nod*

Jester took out a flute from a pocket at the back of his attire. He began playing a song, the Song of the Light. Valvaris began floating around Jester.

Valvaris : Wind Dance

Valvaris breaks into a gust of wind and surrounds the whole inn, bringing the music to every corner of the inn.

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reiz : What is this feeling...?
Angel : The.. soothing wind... calming sound.
Reiz : From the roof..

They immediately went up the roof...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Devanna : What music is this?... Bean calmed down a little bit....
Suddenly a voice from behind answered the question,
Gibb : The Lulianar is using one of the Melody technique.
Devanna : ... Song of the Light.
Gibb : Yes, unbelievable, he can use Melody technique, that's good.
Devanna : He might be young, but he had learnt a lot in his growing years...
Gibb : .........
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reiz and Angel reached the roof and saw Jester still playing the song. They wanted to call him but immediately halted as they see a figure forming from the wind by the side of him.

Angel : *whisper* The Wind Guardian Sprite.

Valvaris : I'm done.
Jester stopped playing the flute.. : ...... Thanks Val, it’s been helpful of you.
Valvaris : It's my pleasure....

Reiz : So you do have another companion, Jester..
Jester and Valvaris turned around,
Jester : Reiz, Angel... Yes.. meet Valvaris.
Valvaris : Nice to meet you....two.
Reiz : Reiz, and Angel*points at Angel*.
Angel : Hi!
Valvaris : I know... everything Jest knows, I know. *Sweet Smile*
Reiz/Angel : .........  
Jester : Okay Val send us back down to the inn, err, into my room.

Valvaris then sent all three of them down into Jester's room, and she entered the ring, into the World of Element.

Reiz/Angel : So that's where she was all along!
Jester : Oh well, I'm going down for some food, apparently its approaching noon... I'm hungry...

And he walked down to eat. Reiz and Angel decided to follow suit, right after they heard the growling sound from their stomachs.

@Necrid's master was looking at some kind of map, in his private room, when suddenly came a another demon lord...

: I thought I told you to knock, Maza...
Maza: Forgive me, master... But I bring disturbing news from the underworld. It seems someone is using the Realm of the Unholy...
: That was Necrid, you fool...
Maza: Not that, master... I mean, THE Realm of the Unholy...
: (raised eyebrows) now, how can he be there? I thought his soul was destroyed... Who could it be helping him... (thinks deeply) Ah... Rygar... Even from the depths of hell he wanted to thwart my plans...But why there, Rygar?? That place is dangerous... Why would you risk it all to save this boy.
Maza: What should we do then Master? What is your command?
: This is getting so annoying... This could either destroy our plan or make it even more successful. Pray that he absorbs the evil that was in there... Then again... Aware Necrid of this news, told him to be ready to face him when he awakes, if he still sane that is... and then attack him, Maza!
Maza: What? But... I wouldn’t dare... Even...
: That is why you are a fool Maza... Sacrifice your Infernal, make it attack him... As long as he was made to absorb the evil inside of it, he will be corrupted...
Maza: But if the Realm is destroyed...
: Then make sure it wont be!!! I know the importance of both realms! Just nudge him a bit, throw him over the edge...
Maza: As you command, Master...

As Maza was about to leave...

: Any words from Keel yet?
Maza: No master, the messenger had not yet returned... But I think he was killed, I couldn’t sense him
: Hmm, interesting... Very interesting indeed... I wonder, will he accept our bargain... Even I don’t know of his goals...

-----

Bean was feeling a bit calm down, even he don’t know why. He was more focused, and he able to work a lot faster now... Then suddenly...

Rygar: Boy, you will have a visitor soon... Don’t kill him, as this will surprise you...

Bean stood suddenly on solid ground... It was as red as the realm Necrid had created. Bean wondered about the similarities when suddenly...

: Quite similar, isn’t it? But you are wrong, it is not he who created it...

Bean turned around, and there stood a demon...

: Greetings Dark Sorcerer. Allow me to introduce myself, I am Lissath, Demon Lord is my rank... Known to my race as Demon of the Dark Sorcerer
Bean: Huh, what... how...
Lissath: What and how is not important... I am your assistant in the real world, though that rank was not yet official, I wonder how long will it take? But that doesn’t matter.
Bean: Wait a minute... What do you mean, assistant??
Lissath: Hmm... So many things to tell, so little time... To simplify, the Dark Sorcerer is my master, and in this case, you...
Bean: Huh?? But then, where were...
Lissath: Where was I when you are controlled by Necrid, or when you are on the run? In the Underworld, of course... I was not obliged to help you back then... But now, it is all different. Rygar has spoken to me about this...
Bean: But Rygar is...
Lissath: Dead? Oh yes, he is... that is why his soul is in the underworld...
Bean: You're confusing me...
Lissath: I am? Maybe I am... But know this, Dark Sorcerer... When you wield the Black Staff once again, call upon me and I will come... with my army...
Bean: Huh?
Lissath: Then I will not linger here much longer, although here is comfortable, but it is a doubled-edged sword... I praise your bravery... Goodbye Dark Sorcerer...

Then it was all gone... The ground, Lissath... Everything was pitch black once more. Bean was thinking hard about this encounter, when

Rygar: Get back to work, fool!!! We don’t have much time!!! And remake that part, blasted someone corrupted you from the outside with a Light element!!!

@Art is traveling at a normal speed for a Wind Surfer, due to some reasons where he was told to condemn his power. He does not understand why it was necessary since he has to use a large amount of it to unseal the Wraith's Wand. He almost reaches Sirroth, he is passing the outskirt of Sirroth, a few more minutes will do the journey a good end. It's almost noon and his stomach is pounding for food.

Art: I hope they have a decent inn for a nice meal.

Reaching the city, he dispels his Wind Surfer and starts walking towards the town's inn, which is visible once you are at the entrance.

Art: Hem.. this looks great. ah... food at last...

Art approach the inn, he was immediately attended to by the innkeeper.

Innkeeper: Welcome to Sirroth, sir. How may I help you, sir?
Art: Yes, I need a decent meal and a room.
Innkeeper: sure, one night will be 700Mi, inclusive of free breakfast. will that be okay?
Art: sure.
Innkeeper: Hey, boy, bring this good man to the lunch table and get his order.
Boy: YES. this way, sir.
Art: thanks.

Art follows the boy into the eating parlor, and to his surprise, both Angel and Reiz was eating there with another unknown man.

Art: REIZ!! ANGEL!!
Reiz: OMG!!!
Angel: ART?
Jester:
Art: Gosh! I haven't seen you two for ages!! *embrace Reiz*
Reiz: Whoa! still, no need to choke me. how are you buddy?
Art: used to be bored but it's great now.  
Angel: hahahha, still the good old Art.
Art: hei, missy, dun make me that old, or you need another reminder of what happens when you last called me an old freaking chap?  *embrace Angel*
Angel: no thanks, I didn't know you were such a pervert, else I wouldn't have risk myself  
Art: ah, so I am a pervert huh?
Angel: so?
Art: you are letting a pervert hugs you? that's dangerous you know?  
Angel: ARGH!!! *break free away from Art*
Reiz: hahaha, anyway, he won't dare to do it, not while I am around eh? unless you didn't get enough from me last time  
Art: argh! that was a big mistake by letting you know, I have no idea you were her guardian, ceh!  
Reiz: I was an I still am  
Art: NO..........
Jester: errr......
Art: oh sorry. hello. call me Art, childhood friends of Reiz and Angel.
Jester: ooo... hello, I am Jester, Angel's guardian.
Art: WHOA! another one? how many admirers do you have?
Angel:  *SMACK* there you go. he is on a task, unknown to me, but he insisted so I let him come along.
Art: AHA!! unknown task? ekekekkkekee  
Angel: *SMACK* DIE U PERVERT!! *flames start to form on her palm*
Art: WHOA!! help me Reiz *hides behind Reiz*
Reiz: ... why must u hide behind me, go face her like a man.  *push Art in front of Angel*
Art: ehehehe... okay okay, I am sorry, just kidding, just kidding... *sweats*
Angel: ces!  *sit down and starts eating again*

@In the forest, Ariel awakes to the companionship of a small group of 3.
Man1 : Looks like our guest is coming round.
Ariel : Where… am I? What happened? *shields her eyes from the sun*
Man1 : Thanks to yours truly, you’re still breathing. I think some gratitude is in order.  
Ariel : Can you tell me what happened?
Man1 : If you must know, your “friend” almost reduced you to nothingness back then. In such short notice, I only managed to reconstruct your soul here. Your body… well, it’s still smoldering on the inside so I guess you can’t return to it right now.
Ariel : DD! Where is he?
Man1 : DD? You mean the poor fellow playing host to Reaper? Please accept our condolences on our behalf. *Gets a whack from his friends*
Woman1 : You surely pick rotten times to joke around. Anyway, the guy is…..fine but he teleported away so we can’t really be sure.
Ariel : *looks down* is that so…..
Woman2 :If I may ask, who… no, what are you actually young lady? When a soul leaves the body Heaven sends seraphim down in place of Reggina who has disappeared to reclaim the soul immediately. Till now I sense no activity at the Heaven’s gate.
Ariel : I…… wait a minute, who are you guys anyway? Why do you know so much about the way heaven functions?
Woman2 : *Woman1 covers Man1’s mouth* we are just some wandering spirits forgotten by heaven… *uneasy laugh*
Ariel : I see… I’m Ariel. *the group of people huddles together and whisper*
Man1 : Isn’t that the name of the watcher that was punished by heaven for interfering with the fate of a human?
Woman2 : If I don’t recall wrong that’s correct. But I also know she’s stationed somewhere near King’s City, not Sirroth.
Woman1 : Even so, she’s still under heaven right? What should we do?
Ariel : Do what? *eavesdropping on them* you guys are no spirits for knowing so much.  
Man2 : *walks in with Man3 and does not notice Ariel* Looks like our friend from long ago has returned. Terra has confirmed that he is the one.
Ariel : Terra…? (=Man3) One of the ones who have renounced heaven to live among the mortals? You guys can’t be…. The small angel-demon-human group called the Fallen who follows neither heaven nor hell? And the Reaper is your friend?
All of them look back at Ariel. Only Man2 is confused.
Man1 : Time to bail. *all of them start running but Ariel manages to grab one of them before they escape.*
Ariel : I don’t want to be caught saying this, but can you guys help me find him? I’m nothing but a spirit now without a physical body. I can’t recreate another body while the previous one is still around. As an exchange I won’t notify Heaven of your presence here, which to me is a real serious offence. *sigh*
they all think about it. Then Terra spoke.
Terra :With 1 condition, that is you won’t leave us in the dark if you know anything or find him.
Ariel : What do you want with him?
Terra : As you know, we’re his friends. We just want to make sure if he’s alright.
Ariel : It’s never that simple, right? What happens after that?
Terra : That all depends on him. What’s important is finding him first.
Ariel : Deal.
Man2 : Whom are you guys talking to? *can’t see Ariel*
Terra : A spirit.*looks away from the man.*
Ariel : I guess he’s the human, right?
Man2 : I told you a human can’t defeat me! I tried to tell you guys before! Now, losing a face off to Reaper ain't an embarrassment.  (Man2= the guy DD injured in town)
Terra : *talks to Ariel* Yup. Sub par but hot headed and arrogant. *shakes his head*

Back in town
the tears on DD’s face have dried. He had spent an uneventful night fully awake. Not that he wanted to, but because he couldn’t for fear that the Reaper might take over or being haunted by the reenactment of the forest scene in his dreams. Picking himself up, he went to the town’s well to get water to freshen up. After placing a bucket of water beside him, he proceeded to wash his face. Dipping his hands into the bucket, he closed his eyes and splashed water over his face. Upon reopening his eyes, he gasped at the sight of his hands. They were covered in fresh, dripping blood. Turning around, silence was all he heard, with bodies with injuries to their chests littering the area. Freaking out, he desperately tried to get the blood of his hands. The bucket was of no use since it was filled with blood so he rubbed his hands roughly with his shirt. It didn’t work. On the verge of breaking down, his hands that were rubbed intensely against his shirt bled. As the sense of pain filtered to his mind, he awoke from his hallucination. Looking around him, the town was as normal. Shaking his head, he thought to himself “It was just my imagination”. It was then a voice spoke within his head.
Reaper : Enjoyed the show?  
DD : “Thanks”, I really needed that.  Aren’t you supposed to be gone when I’m awake?
Reaper : Yup, but tell me how long since you last slept. A day ago? With the workout I had with your body back in the forest, you should be really tired right now. Hallucinations are 1 of the symptoms of sleep deprivation you know?  
DD : So now what? You’re going to bug me till I fall asleep? That doesn’t sound right.  
Reaper : I’m just here to watch how long can someone delay the inevitable.  
DD : If you really must now, I suggest you GET OUT OF MY HEAD! I’m getting a headache with you in it!
Reaper : As you wish.  *DD’s head becomes clear again*
Looking at the bucket of water, DD saw a reflection of himself in the water. He remembered looking into water in the past before, when he learnt that his a kin is dead. He told himself “Now isn’t much different”, or so he said to cover up the sad reality. Finished with the bucket, he started to head to the inn where everyone was. Standing across the busy street where the inn was located, he wanted to enter the inn. Jester who was eating near the windows on the upper floors of the inn caught a glimpse of DD in the midst of the human traffic and called for Angel.
Reaper : So, you think you can just walk in there and pretend nothing happened? Even if you can do that, can the others? *DD thought for a while*
Angel : *Leaning out of the window* I don’t see him. Are you pulling my leg?  
Jester : I swear I saw him. Honest!

[Angel]

@Angel: You sure?
Jester: I swear!!! I saw DD down there!!
Angel: Then where is he now? I can’t even sense him…
Jester: He got to be somewhere nearby, unless he can fly!!
Reiz: He is heading towards the south. His aura is weak, very weak… I think we better go fetch him.
Angel: You sure, Reiz?
Reiz: Very. And we better be quick. The time for the spell is nearing, just another day to go, I fear for his safety.
Angel: Well, lead the way. His aura is too weak for me to sense.
Jester: I can’t sense him either…
Reiz: Use Valvaris. I am sure she can sense.
Jester: …
Art: If you guys don’t hurry up, we won’t be able to catch up.

____________________________________________________________

the four of them starts to head toward DD, hoping to bring him back to the inn, safe and sound. The day for the Ancient Spirit Ritual is tomorrow and the worst might happen if and shall DD miss his treatment. The urgency drives their ability to the highest capability, which enables them to travel real fast towards the moving DD, by using Wind Surfer and for Jester, Valvaris.

Jester: I didn’t know you could use sorcery, Angel. Aren’t you a Priestess?
Angel: No, actually I am something like a Holy Wizards, got it?
Jester:  Huh? I didn’t know there was such class… Holy Wizards eh? Seems like a Valkyrie more like it… you know, those battle Angels form Heaven.
Reiz: Duh!  Of course we know that. And no, Angel is not a Valkyrie, she can't fight to save her life.
Angel:  I don’t deny that.
Jester: I see.
Valvaris: May I speak?
Jester: Huh? Yes, go ahead.
Art: Wait. Valvaris right?
Valvaris: Yes, sire.
Art: I need to find a Fire Guardian like you, for an important mission. Do you know how and where I can do so?
Valvaris: … I am not very sure where is the Fire Guardian at the moment, locating him is the toughest task one can take. To obtain his help, you must first locate him before you are given another task to complete.
Art: …  sucks!
Valvaris: May I speak now?
Jester: Yes, yes, go ahead Val.
Valvaris: Miss Angel, please pardon me. May I address some facts about you?
Angel: Huh? Me? Yeah, as long as it is not about some idiot who left me for his blardy task!!
Valvaris: I sense Heaven’s power in you, in fact, your ability to use sorcery has been a great mystery to me, as to my knowledge, no Priest or Priestess, dead or alive, have such ability. Ability that is way out of your class. The bracelets that you wore are Heaven’s High Priority artifacts that are supposed to be heavily guarded in the Heaven. Who really are you? I am sure that you are definitely not a human.
Angel:  … Those are the questions that I have been trying to clear myself. I have no idea who I am or why I have such possession of power and artifacts. The only person who knew about my identity was my mother, but she… she… she has passed away… I have to search for someone else who knew, and he isn’t easy to find…
Valvaris: I see. I am sorry to have evoke your unpleasant memories, but my curiosity to know the truth…
Angel:  It’s okay, I am used to it.
Reiz: There he is.

@Walking out of the store beside the inn, DD held on tightly to the bag of items he just bought from the store. Looking back at the inn, he hoped he could at least say goodbye to his new, albeit brief friends. Seeing that it was not to be, he ventured to the back alleys bordering the forest. Unloading the items he just bought, he started a fire and brewed a drink. Minutes later, he tasted the pure, unadulterated brew. It tasted bitter, but it didn't matter. The taste would mask any undesired tastes and keep him awake longer he thought. Opening a small pack of white, grainy powder, he emptied the contents into the pot. His movement was slow, either from the effects of exhaustion or heavy thinking. The brew was stirred to dissolve the powder and later he poured himself a cup of it. Gazing at the reflection of himself on the surface of the "black gold", he murmured "Maybe I wasn't meant to be..." , raised the cup to mouth level and slowly tilted it. The murky liquid inched closer to his mouth, but he stopped. Staring at the cup again, he made a wish that he'd open his eyes to a better tomorrow. Repeating the process again, he was interrupted at the last possible moment by the sound of coins hitting the hard floor. A man ran past him, totally oblivious of the sound. DD tried to hail the man but to no avail. Setting the cup back onto the floor, he decided that it could wait and went after the man with the pouch of coins in hand.
Reaper : I'd let that go if I were you. It's going to hurt you more than you'll ever think.
DD : Since when did I put you in charge of my life?
Reaper : It's just my advice. I say it's not worth it. Why must you insist on doing this? We could have a use for it.
DD : If you look back at my history maybe you'll understand.
Reaper : Spare me the trouble please.
DD's history - After his parents parted with him in the fire at a very young age, DD made his way to the other property his family owned - A farm at the opposite side of town. There he was well fed for a few weeks, living on the crops his father left behind. Problems started the moment he ran out of food. He was too young to know farming, and the fact that his father rarely brought them to the farm compounded matters. His father had always wanted them to study, not to follow his footsteps in the future. A better life was what his father intended, but knowledge didn’t put food on the table. Skills did. He soon wandered into town in search of food and found himself beside a rack of freshly baked pastries, obviously lured by the scents of the food. He was penniless, having no time to salvage anything. Looking around, he noticed the storekeeper was busy attending to customers whereas the walkway was clear, a perfect escape route. Ensuring that everything would go fine, he went for the bread but his hand froze just as he was to grab the bread. Morals and dignity were at stake, something his parents always told them to uphold. Not wanting to disappoint his parents, he left for the alleys with an empty stomach. Facing the harsh reality of street life, he cried, silently. By nightfall, a couple approaches him and offered him bread.
Man : Here boy, have some bread. You must've been hungry.  
DD : ....?
Woman : We've been watching you at the store. We're impressed that you wouldn't compromise your principles and dignity just to have your stomach filled considering your age and desperation. Why are you here? Don't you have a home?
DD : Family... fire... alone... *tears roll down his cheeks*
Man : Poor kid. Come boy, welcome to the Delores's family. *The man offers him a hand. DD accepts it and follows them to their home. They had taken him in as an adopted son.*

Elsewhere, Ariel was moving towards the city.
Terra : This is as far as we’ll go. We don’t want to enter the city for there should be a Watcher posted there. Don’t worry. We’ll be around. How are you going to find him?
Ariel : Ok.. I’ve used this to find items and routes, but never to find someone. Hopefully this works. “Guiding light”.
*A small sphere of light formed and soon brought Ariel to the store DD went to. Asking around, she was more desperate to find DD.

The main group landed near a man. It wasn’t DD, but the aura was similar to DD.
Jester : What the? DD is a …. Pigeon?
Reiz : *looks at the pigeon* ….No, the aura is fading… We’ve been duped. Should have known this earlier… DD couldn’t have traveled so far so fast! This must have been Reaper’s work!

Back in the forest, DD faced up to the man he wanted to help.
: Never knew you would fall for that trick.
DD : Huh? What? I’m here to return your pouch of gold.
: Gold isn’t worth anything to me. However, you, or rather what’s within you is. I am Baelen, Watcher of Sirroth. I stand here before you with the order to bring the traitor back to face charges in Heaven. Discard your weapons and follow me human. We promise you a place among the ranks of heaven for your deed of bringing in the traitor.
*DD was tempted to take the offer. He’s life sucked anyway.*
Reaper : Why don’t you ask him the process to join first?
DD : How could an offer as good as that be bad?
Reaper : And I supposed you know more than me?
DD : … Baelen right? Could you tell me more bout the process?
Baelen : To join heaven, you’ll have to undergo the Ascension Ritual. It is to purify your soul and sever the bonds you have with the human world.
DD : Sever bonds?
Reaper : They want people that won’t get emotional when it comes to treating humans. So you’ll have to forget YOU WERE human and their orders.
DD : Brainwashing? So that I would serve them blindly?...
Reaper : Couldn’t have said it better myself.
*Baelen walked over to DD and tried to take away the weapons in DD’s hands. It wasn’t long before he realized he’d have to pries it away from DD’s cold, dead fingers.*
Baelen : So, you have decided it seems. On these chargers I will carry out my task. The first charge - Failure to discharge...
(Baelen announces charges, Terra explains the charges to Ariel in somewhere else)
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Terra : ... duties. Reaper was once an officer of heaven in charge of ensuring fate moves along smoothly. Fate was like a mathematical formulae, and he was meant to control fate altering "free variables" like angels and demons that are not bound by fate. It also meant he had to retrieve souls of those who overstay their fates. Rumour has it that in one of his missions, he retrieved the soul of a child before being sent to retrieve the soul of another man nearby who overstayed his fate. The child followed him willingly, but the man wouldn't. Having to forcefully pull the man's soul out, the man's physical body died. The next of kin who were keeping a vigil soon started weeping upon noticing the man had left them. As he was leaving with the 2 souls in tow, the child spoke out, angrily and crying - "Why... Why?" Reaper answered that it was his duty. What the child said next would soon come to haunt him - "You are heartless.... I HATE YOU!!!". Reaper than returned to heaven a changed person. On his next similar mission, he turned his back on heaven and ran away.
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Baelen : The second charge - For association with the traitors, the ........

-------------------------------------------------------------------
Terra : ...Fallen. We are a bunch of individuals with no affiliations. Just like Reaper, we believed in something other than what heaven and hell believed. By coincidence, we bumped into each other and soon traveled together. We spent our days enjoying ourselves in the human world, something forbidden by heaven, and fled whenever there was a presence of officials from either side.
-------------------------------------------------------------------

Baelen : And most importantly, the third charge - for being the catalyst of ...
-------------------------------------------------------------------
Terra : ... something we refer to as the Incident. With our freedom to roam the land, we eventually ended up in the city Reaper abandoned his task. He revisited the person he was intended to remove, and found that the another officer of heaven had just carried out his task. Chasing after the officer, they fought and the city was reduced to collateral damage. The overzealous officer made things worse, calling in reinforcements to help apprehend Reaper. In the end, we had to pull the officer out to stop the carnage. Heaven might have overlooked some of his previous mistakes, but this incident couldn't be overlooked by heaven for it disrupted the fate of thousands. That's the basis of most of the non-interference policy were created to prevent. Remember the punishment you received for helping a human?
Ariel : I see... You said he made mistakes right? As in?
Terra : Reaper picked up some dark element spells in the course of his job. That was illegal, but they chose to turn a blind eye and gave him a Purity crystal to keep the dark side at bay.
Ariel : Heaven overlooked THAT?!!
Terra : They chose to overlook that for he's service record. He was efficient, something treasured by Heaven. In an important mission, he only completed the primary task at the expense of several other "less priority tasks" and some men. He was the sole survivor of the task, hence he was looked on favorably upon his return.
------------------------------

Reaper : This is not a good thing~…
the duel begins. Naturally, the gulf of skills between a human and a non-human started to show. After a few exchange of blows, DD was bruised, and Baelen hardly had a scratch. Ducking and rolling away from an incoming attack, DD regrouped himself behind a tree, out of Baelen’s sight.
DD : You were looking forward to this, didn’t you Reaper?! Curse you!
Reaper : *Angrily* Combat strategy 101 – Never start a fight when you know you can’t win! You’re human, he’s not. Guess your chances.
*Out of nowhere, Baelen launches a surprise attack. DD was preoccupied with Reaper in his head to see it coming. With his back against the tree, external injuries would be the least of his worries if he were to be hit. As Baelen closed in, a force repulsed him. Baelen notices something*
Baelen : So, you have sided with the darkness…
Reaper : Quick, give me control! You can’t handle him!
DD : No, you’ll kill everyone!
Reaper : Is there a choice? I can’t guarantee I’d be able to save you the next time you’re in a tight spot! I can match up to him!
DD : Why are you doing this?
Reaper : Do I need to explain everything? I’m stuck with you and whatever happens to you happens to me! I’m not letting you die and you won’t either!
DD : Then where were you when I was about to drink my concoction?
Reaper : Was there a need? Face it, you can’t kill yourself even if you wanted to. You grew up accustomed to death of those close to you yet you’re afraid of death!
DD was taken back. Reaper had a point. He wanted to live, and was truly desperate now.
DD : What do I have to do?
Reaper : Just follow what I say.
* DD put his hands together and said a prayer. Then he stretched both hands sideways.
“ On my left, I offer myself to the spirits within me.”*His bony left hand started to glow*
“On my right, I offer a prayer to the unfortunates in my path”*A flame forms on his right hand*
“Heed my call, for I stand ready!” *Clasps his hands together. A surge of energy followed, and when it subsided Reaper was in control of DD’s body*
Reaper : It feels good to be back. So only you will be my opponent? Where are your friends?
Baelen : I adhere to the rule of heaven - to fight fair. So, I will fight you one-on-one. The gates of heaven have been closed and they are put on standby. They will only come if things get out of control.
Reaper : That means I'll have to beat you to have them come down? Very well.

*Both sides fought a melee battle first. They were evenly matched, and the only casualties were the trees and critters that inhabited the forest. Trees were split, slashed or felled whereas the unfortunate animals that got in the way were sliced up. Baelen had the advantage of range with his rod, but Reaper had two weapons to attack and defend. In the end, the landscape they started with was altered, and Reaper managed to land a hit on Baelen. Baelen looks up, and says “It’s under control”. He then starts playing his flute. Reaper, not knowing what was happening, called “Darkness – Hidden Spirits!” There was nothing different with the place after that. Reaper then decided to make a move, but just as he was to move, wolves attacked him from behind. The melody that Baelen played had called upon the wolves to aid him. Trying to jump away, he was thwarted by Baelen who used “Sonic Wave” onto the ground, causing the earth to tremble and Reaper to lose balance. Reaper soon found himself on the floor fending off 5 wolves with his weapons. Concentrating dark energy to his hand, he called “Darkness – Touch of Death!” and the wolves backed off cautiously for they sense the formation of a death aura. Not taking chances, Reaper called upon the inverse of his previous spell, “Light – Guardian Spirits!”. 5 glowing spheres started to circle him in a random orbit. As Baelen was deciding what to do next, a flurry of black arrows were aimed at him from behind. He looked back, managing to catch the look of a small dark spirit that tried to attack him. The spirit then disappeared into the shadows, waiting for a chance to attack again. Reaper then charged at the wolves, which formed a circle around him with the aim of taking them out. He focused his attacks onto 1 of the wolves, and managed to hit it a few times before it ran away. The other wolves tried to help out but were knocked away by the spheres as they tried to attack Reaper. Learning that they couldn’t attack Reaper, they retreated into the bushes and waited for further instructions from Baelen who himself already disappeared into the forest. There was an eerie silence then, for all sounds were muffled. A good guess would have been Baelen, for he had control over sound. Now Reaper was open to sneak attacks for he wouldn’t be tipped off by sounds of creatures moving through the bushes. Baelen didn’t really have everything his way, for he had to keep on moving to avoid attacks from Reaper’s dark spirits. Crawling up a tree and finding an opening, he blew a very high-pitched tune, high enough to cause Reaper to drop his weapons and cover his ears. The wolves then seized the opportunity to attack him. With the spheres busy fending off the wolves, Baelen went up to attack Reaper as he was trying to cope with the sound. Bashing him around, Reaper couldn’t do much, which was until Baelen wasted too much time at a place and was hit by a few black arrows. Breaking the tune, Reaper aimed his finger at Baelen and fired a streak of light. Baelen dodged in time, but he lost the end of his flute due to the beam. Baelen retaliated with “Echo Cannon, a sudden burst of sound that sent Reaper into a daze. His senses were scrambled by the sound and he need time to recover. Stumbling around while his protective spirits worked overtime keeping him safe, he called “Darkness – Minefield!”. 2 wolves that tried to lunge at him hit something invisible in the air, and they were drained of their energies before an explosion followed. They had hit some mines, designed to drain energy from enemies that run into them before exploding when they absorb too much energy. Reaper had bought himself some recovery time as Baelen stood outside with the remaining wolves. They wouldn’t risk running into mines. Baelen then had a brainstorm, throwing stones towards Reaper. The stones detonated some mines, clearing a path to Reaper and kicking up some dust. He looked to signal the wolves to attack, but found them caught in a circle of fire. Reaper had used “Darkness - Silent Blaze” to contain them, making extermination jobs easier. The wolves, with nowhere to run, were picked off by Reaper with his touch of death. Soon, it was Baelen alone, just like when they started. Baelen tried to use the high pitch to disable Reaper again, but Reaper felled a tree in the meanwhile. The sound of the tree crashing down muffled the pitch Baelen created and forced Baelen to dodge it. As he dodged, he was caught in the leg by another black arrow. Reaper jumped towards him, and Baelen prepared his “Echo Cannon” again. Activating the spell, an airborne Reaper could not adjust his flight path and was to be hit by the spell again. Baelen looked confident, but on the contrary, Reaper activated his own spell. “Darkness – Eye of Reversal”. Baelen’s spell hit an “eye” and was soon reversed its path, striking Baelen down instead. On the ground, Reaper approached a prone Baelen. Instead of giving up, Baelen tried to trip Reaper. Reaper hopped slightly and sank his cross in place of his foot to stop Baelen’s kick. He then landed knee first directly on Baelen’s knee with the help of DD’s critical blow skill. Baelen screamed in pain, and Reaper had an evil grin on his face. It was all over for Baelen, unable to walk and all alone.
Reaper : Nice workout. *senses something and looks back* so, they have found us… *turns around only to be greeted by a ‘Sonic Wave’ that pushed him away from Baelen. Baelen soon warped out of the place. A voice soon rang out. “I’ll be watching…” before returning the place to normal.*
Angel and the group had just arrived at the scene, following the commotion caused by the 2 men fighting. Ariel too had arrived by following the commotion, but no one could see nor hear her for their minds have used Mind Seal. Now, they faced up to Reaper instead of DD. The Fallen then took up their spectator’s seats in the sky.

Angel : I thought he’d only wake up by tomorrow?
Reiz : I guess he was forced too.. *looks at the damage done to the area*
Reaper : Who wants to continue?

@location : old trading route to Zeraquimme
 

Two hooded figures is seen walking down a path.

1 : u felt that?
2 : yea....looks like he just learned a new trick or two.
1 : he might be troublesome if he keeps learning spells like that
2 : don’t give me that crap, u sound more excited than troubled.
1 : heh...[said it with a smirk on his face]


the next day


2 : I told ya we should've taken the main road, but nooooooo.......
1 : shut up, we reached in time didn’t we.


they walked towards what looks to be a cathedral, or whets left of it. as they entered, they are greeted with another shadowy figured.


2 : what you doing sitting around?
3 : Bah.....I can’t find the damn entrance. Y do they have to make it so
secretive anyways.

2 : cant find or you forgot....bwhahahaha....

3 : laugh again and it'll be your last HUMAN.

2 : Call me that and I’ll damn sure incinerate you to ashes DEMON. [raises his palm, black flames started to appear]

3 : if that’s what you want....come...I’ll gladly show you the way to hell
[his appearance starts to change gradually, a strange blue/black/red aura starts to engulf him]

1 : that’s enough!! the two of you...back off


a voice appears from nowhere


4 : che....why stop them, I would love to see who's stronger, a pure blood or a tainted one.

2 and 3 : WHY U...!!! [ glares at the shadowy figure, which is now starting to take a human form]


1 : inquisitive as always...shadow master.

shadow master : ahhh...it’s been awhile since some one called me by that name.

a door to the left opens, a hunched, half deformed figure, with a candle in hand

walks in calmly.

hunched figure : come come, the others are waiting, master is waiting.

2 : we'll settle this some other time then.
3 : that, we will.


the hunched figure then starts chanting a spell, the floor below all of them

starts to glow and in a flash they were transported into another room, which

looks like a throne room.

there in the middle of the room stands 3 more figures, one is a human female, another is burly guy wearing armor holding a huge hammer. the third figure is merely a mist, in human shaped form. on the throne, sits and empty armor, shimmering black in color.

mist figure : I see, only the seven of us remains loyal. no matter, it’s just a

matter of time before we regain our power once more.


1 : hmm...more than what I expected.
female : it’s been awhile, ion.
Eiion : yes. good to see you again too.
burly male : I see that the shadow master is here as well
shadow master : of course, I have been waiting for this meeting since that day.
2 : all the faces I don’t want to see, and they are all standing in front me.
burly male : hah...that bad attitude of yours never changes, after all these years.
3 : don’t even hope that he'll change.
2 : you don’t have, I won’t change even for the world.

hunched figure : the master is coming, I hope you guys did as you were told, or the master will me most displeased.

Suddenly all of them felt an aura whisk past them, heading straight for the armor. The strange aura engulfed the armor, which is now glowing.

armor : my loyal servants, the time is nearing, have you found them yet?
ion : yes master, we have most of them. I wouldn't thought it would be that easy.
armor : ...hmm...?
2 : yea...what we thought would be the hardest to find was actually the easiest.
female : yes, and I found the gate of eternal realm.
armor : this is good news indeed. very well done.

suddenly all of them felt a huge surge of energy blast right into their minds, it seems like the master is probing into their minds. when he was done, all but ion fell to their knees, sweating profusely.

armor : I see, you all have done very well indeed, but not all of them have awaken. keep watch of them and report their progress. Give them a little push if you felt like it, but do not over do it.

all : yes, master

Eiion : master, what about Yewa and those who gets in our way.

armor : do not confront Yewa unless necessary, I do not want him to know of our presence as of yet. keep me informed of his movements. as for the others, do what you like, as long as it does not hamper my return.

armor : Eiion, the girl is the most important key to my successful return. no harm must come to her, you understand?

Eiion : yes master. I already have the right person for the job.
armor : I trust your apprentice is as good as you told.
ion : we shall know in due time.
armor : very well

armor : failure is not an option. I will not tolerate incompetence.


With that, the aura that surrounded the armor starts to dissepates. When everyone felt that the master has left,


female : whaa? You’re already got an apprentice?! I wonder who actually caught the attention of the great ion.
2 : just a clumsy fools with no sense of direction

all the others : ?

Eiion : heh...but he is an interesting boy indeed.

female : well, if ion chooses him, he's no ordinary boy, that’s for sure.
burly man : well, we got our work cut out for us. lets get going.
female : right, the master didn’t give us any clear instructions, did he?
3 : that means we can do it our way, as long as it’s done.
female : clear enough for me.
shadow master : right, I’ll continue looking for the remaining artifacts. what about you, bane? [ looks at 3]
bane : me..? I have already done my part.
shadow master : how about joining me in a little treasure hunts?
bane : sounds like fun.


female : what bout you ion? what are you going to do, since already have someone doing your dirty work for you.

Eiion : that’s true, but I still need to keep an eye on Yewa, he is a wildcard after all.

female : very well. [looks at the hunched figure] get us out of here will ya.

hunched figure : as you wish. [ starts chanting spell ]


All of them disappeared in a flash of light.

At the main gates of Zeraquimme


female : looks like the others have left.
Eiion : lets go, I got something I need to clarify.
2 : ok
female : I’ll be seeing you then, ion.

she does some signs with her hands and a dragon materializes right in front of them. she gets on top of the dragon, and took off.


2 : I still don’t get how she does that. Aren’t souls in material?
ion : they are.
2 : then how...?
ion : why don’t you ask her.
2 : I pass
ion : lets go.
2 : alright.

[Angel]

@Jester : ... Stand backs everyone. Let me deal with him...
Reaper : Think you've got the power to?
Jester : You've never knew me, Yewa.
Reiz : *whisper* Think he can do anything?
Angel : Maybe, just give a little help when there's chance, I'll perform the ritual on DD.
Every other people : Affirmative.

They stepped back. Jester extracted his katar. Yewa grinned.

"Darkness – Hidden Spirits"
Jester :  
Yewa : You've seen it with your own eyes, you think you can do anything about it?  

Jester smiled. He held his left hand up, " Light Barrier". An invisible sphere surrounds Jester, and blocked every single hit sent from Yewa's power.
Astonished, Yewa did not hold back, he charges at Jester and intend to launch the 'Critical Strike'. Jester swings his katar as fast as he is able to parry most of Yewa's strikes. Some missed. After parrying a few more blows, Jester hopped back and charges his katar.

"Howling of the Moon"
And he strikes at the charging Yewa. It barely missed Yewa but the vibration power of 'HotM' threw Yewa back a few meters.

Yewa climbs up, "You do have some ability... Darkness – Minefield!"

Jester : If I were to charge, his mines will absorb my shield energy and blast them at me...

Just then, Jester charged at Yewa, and his shield was drained, in that instant, Valvaris came and used Breeze Barrier and blocked the blast but then another mine was activated and Valvaris' barrier was absorbed, yet Jester cast another Light Barrier to block that explosion.

Jester :ARgh. This will waste a lot of my energy..
Yewa : Hmph, impudent fool. Light - Sacred Bind!!

The restrain was aimed at Jester but it was redirected towards Valvaris with her Replace ability (redirecting attacks towards her). Yewa was shocked with that, and Jester took the chance to unleash his power, "Eclipse!!" Lights were out and Jester launched his 32-hits attack on Yewa. It seemed that all hit were on Yewa, but when the light came back, only a few bruises were seen on him.

Yewa : It's very good of you to be able to deal at least 5 slashes on me... But I should thank my guardian spirit for blocking the other 27.  
Jester : *huff - puff*............
Yewa : Hmmph, Critical Strike....
Jester : U-AAAAHHHHHHHH!!!!
Yewa : You're too naive to think that you can defeat me... a mere young kid?
Jester : *forces himself to talk* you.....had.....not....seen....enough...yet....!! Moon Light!!!

A bright light engulfs Jester and healed all his wound..

Jester : Damn that took a lot of my energy...ARgh! Must I use that power only can I defeat him?......
Yewa : Darkness - Hidden Spirits!!
Jester : Damn I forgot my shield!
Arrows started hitting Jester even as he tries to evade them.

Jester : DAMN IT! No choice! *eyes flashes Yellow, the word God(shen) on the forehead flashes red* Moon Child - Halt

Time stopped for one second and in that one second Jester vanished before time regain its footstep.
Yewa :  Some illusion technique? Hmmph.  
After a minute of silence. A shadow appears and strikes the back of Yewa's head. Yewa turned around and strike the ambush but happen to just break a piece of log. And there comes a slash at the back of Yewa, when Jester broke out of invisibility.

Yewa :  Darkness - Mine.....
Jester : Moon Child - Lock
Jester's eye then sparkle a yellow glitter and Yewa stood there, paralyzed. And Valvaris was released from the bind.
Reiz : Now's our chance!!!

@Time: 4th day. (whole day)

The day drew to an end as I approached my house… or should I say, ‘former’ house. For 6 years, I’ve become one with the wind, wandering where the wind blows. Never will I stay in the same place twice; the only exception is here, Voliskeel, a Keepers true home. But as I drown myself in my own thoughts, I fail to sense the negative auras radiating of a figure in the shadows. So it wasn’t strange that the figure lunged at me to attack hoping to catch me by surprise. Not much luck there; in a city where people fight 24/7, ambushes are not uncommon.

As I turned to face my foe, a searing pain stabbed through my eyes as my opponent reflected the sinking sun’s rays using the polished blade. With one sense down, I resorted to others. Processing through my brain was a jumble of information that was being analyzed at quantum speeds. Soon after my eyes were blinded, I heard his/her feat touch the stone a few feet from my position followed by the singing of a blade as it slices through the air. Steel meet steel as I brought Soul to bear, driving my attacker back with a successive blow to the midsection. Struggling to open my eyes, my ears detected a swift object moving rapidly towards me. Dodging to the left, I felt cold metal pierce my right shoulder only to leave just a swiftly as it had entered. Blood began pouring our profusely from the relatively small wound and Soul left my grip as my right arm went numb; my nerves and artery were gone.

Regaining sight, I pressured the wound with my left hand to stop the bleeding but with no avail. While I was proficient in some healing magic, wounds of this magnitude was out of my league. As I went down, my assailant took long relaxed steps towards me. Glittering on his wrinkled hand was a curved double blade; the bow blade Armana Kelados. That would make my attacker…

: [frail and low pitched] my welcoming gift to you. Like it?
ElderG: Shut up old man. I still owe you a world of hurt…
: [amused] Oh really? Look who’s on the ground now, bleeding his life out?
ElderG: [growl] It will be you soon…
: Really, is that how a apprentice should address his master? You leave for 6 years and your discipline has deteriorated…
ElderG: Nothing seems different… to… me… [eyes getting heavy]
: [looking at a pocket watch] 2 minutes only? [shacks head] You really are pathetic… [takes out a black pill and gives to me] Extar miracle pill. Heals everything, except your incompetence.

I pop the pill and forced it down my throat. Instantly a wave of energy came over me, dissipating the pain in my shoulder. Moreover, I felt light to a point that I believe I could fly. By the time I could feel the weight of my body on my knees my fatal wound had healed completely. Strangely, while my wounds were healed, my blood supply wasn’t replenished as my right arm was still numb.

Now that I wasn’t at the verge of death (a common everyday occurrence) I will now describe my assailant… or rather my master. He’s around my height, sporting white facial hair while still maintaining hair cover. Although he doesn’t look aged with his small angular eyes and rough face skin, his fragile and wrinkled skin covering his hands betrays his age. He is also strongly built with toned muscles visible by the outline his gray-layered tunic. He also wore a vest plated with metal scales and a raged pair of pants, also plated with metal scales. On his left arm was a metal device holding a quiver of steel arrows followed by a dragon scale glove covering his left hand.

Talking about him lets also talk about Armana Kelados, or Arm for short. At first glance, it looks like a crescent double blade held in the center and judging from the smoothness of the metal, it is a well-made and formidable weapon. However, Arm is more than that. If the target removes itself from range of melee combat, a hidden string will tighten, turning Arm into a bow. Not only that, it is an effective hidden weapon as the user is not required to carry arrows. Instead, arrows are concealed within the blades of Arm, falling into place as its user draws back the string. Thus, Arm’s fire rate is significantly increased, making Arm a deadly weapon in the hands of those who have mastered her.

ElderG: Now that’s done, may I commence the ass kicking?
Master: [laughing] Like you can do that.
ElderG: [evil grin] Oh, I will… after she’s done with you.
Master: What… [realizes there’s a dagger at his throat and a hocked dagger between his legs, just below his family jewels ^^]
: [menacing] That’s real brave of you to steal Arm from me, grandfather, but didn’t you think I won’t find out? [looks at me] Hi Elder. What did he do this time?
ElderG: Well… other then trying to kill me, nothing much.
: I see… alright, I’ll let you go this time. [keeps daggers] Gomen Elder. Looks like you won’t be ‘kicking’ his ass today. [extending her hand] I’ll have her back now.
Master: Sure sure… [hands her Arm] Hey useless, if you got time, spar with Alysia. You ‘might’ learn something… that is if you can even learn.
ElderG: [angry] Why you…
Alysia: I’m free so why not? We should go to the Opedious 33 site. The tree cover there is good for ambush attacks. Its good training for our senses-
ElderG: [interrupting] I’m sorry, but I got other business to attend to. [picks Soul up and sheaths it] Gatou’s back…
Alysia: [eyes widen with revelation but soon turn into narrow solemn eyes] I see… I’ll… be seeing you around. Look me out ok? [turns and walks away with master]
ElderG: Yeah… sure.

Feeling fit enough, I continued on my way into Fenrir area, passing many spiral towers that lined the streets. As each family area is walled up, there is only a single entrance, although a multitude of other secret passages leading in exist. And they are guarded always. I wouldn’t worry about them attacking me; I’m quite famous within my family. Still, a few novices tried to take me on, only to realize they were seriously outclass. Besides that, I reached my house uneventfully.

Expecting a warm welcome was really hopeful thinking so I braced myself for the worst. And it couldn’t get any better. Just as I approached my humble home –after climbing 343 steps of the spiral stairs that linked all the houses within the spiral tower- a woman dressed in a simple red dress with an apron came bursting out of a door near me. Her crimson eyes gleamed with fury and her long raven hair fluttered back as she closed the gap between us wielding a gray stick that was chained to her wrists. However, as she approached closer, the upper part of the weird stick expended outward like the wings of a bat, revealing a wing like blade that shimmered black; the Wing Scythe.

I never expected myself to dodge her attack as both her sudden appearance and her attack were just like flashes of lightning. Before I knew it, the blade of the scythe was resting beside my neck. As if emphasizing the perfection of the Wing Scythe, a lock of my hair submitted to the wind and connected with the blade only to split into two. Now, my eyes were being bored into by another pair of ruby red eyes, the anger in them so visible that they seem to manifest into razor daggers.

: [angry] You have some guts returning here.
ElderG: [averting eyes] I had no choice. He is here after all.
: Hmmm… [moving the scythe’s blade away] Come in if you like, but dinner is only for three.
ElderG: Whatever, Clare.
Clare: Still won’t call me mother, huh? I guess I should blame your father for that…

There was an enticing aroma originating from beyond the open door. This was enough to make my mouth water. Sadly, I wasn’t invited to dinner. Still, there were other things in my mind then food, namely my father.

My relationship with my father can be said to be the greatest father-son relationship, in terms of hostility. It was not always this way, but neither of us can remember how it happened. Truthfully, neither of us WANTS to remember how it happened. But the end result can clearly be seen.

It was no surprise that he was already waiting for me inside, dressed in his battle outfit. I froze in place, the anger within me boiling up like a dormant volcano being awaken. After whispering something to Clare, he beckoned me to follow him. Silently, we transcended the tower and moved beyond Voliskeel’s towering walls. Once we got there, we stood silently under a canopy of trees.

Gatou: [breaking the silence] Who are you?
ElderG: [shouting] Who am I!? What, you don’t even recognize your own brood!?
Gatou: Exactly. You are neither the son I left behind 8 years ago nor are you the brother Grace talks about while he was away. No, I don’t know you.
ElderG: Why you…
Gatou: You have been searching for me, is that right? Is this… [takes out a gold triangular crest from his pocket] what you want?
ElderG: That’s right. I’ll show you… show you that I’m worthy of Soul.
Gatou: Is that so? But you still haven’t answered my question yet, boy.
ElderG: And why should I do that?
Gatou: True. But that’s not the matter; it’s whether you CAN answer me.
ElderG: No problem. After all, who in the world would forget his own name-
Gatou: Oh, it seems you misunderstood. I don’t just want your name; I want to know WHO you are. The reasons you fight, the proof of your existence, the truth behind the mask. In other words, the true you.
ElderG: [silence]
Gatou: But it seems that you will not be answering today. You know why? It’s because you don’t know who you truly are. The mask you erected while I was away has silenced the voice of your soul, leaving you with only a false image of yourself. I feel… that I’m partly to blame for this, but you are too equally to blame for not noticing.
ElderG: What… what is you lecturing about, old man!?
Gatou: The reason I passed Soul to you at such a young age. I thought… you would find it; a reason to make Soul your own. But now… it has turned into a mindless obsession, driven only by the prospect of greater power.
ElderG: Is that what you wanted? Was that the reason you left with the crest of Soul?
Gatou: Yes, but in the state you’re in, you will never defeat me, yet alone obtain the strength you seek. Let me tell you, do you know what Soul is? It’s an image of yourself, a clear reflection of your heart. You wish to make Soul yours, but if you don’t know yourself, Soul won’t answer your calling.
ElderG: Shut up! Why…Why you!! [rushes forward with Soul raised]
Gatou: [a quick parry with a thin blade knocks ElderG back and as ElderG attacks again, Gatou makes a quick spin and slices Soul’s blade off.]
ElderG: [looking at Soul in dismay] Im…impossible…
Gatou: I know my strengths and weaknesses, unlike you. Since Soul is an image of me, it’s only natural that I can defeat myself. Well, I have to get going; dinner is getting cold. Here’s my final advice; look into your heart and find out for yourself, the meaning of your life. Then, and only then, can you rediscover yourself. [walks away]

It was the greatest blow to my mind I had ever received. As I stared down at the broken sword, I felt week. Then I realized; I had always been relaying on Soul’s power, the power of my father. Looking back, the strength I posses was insignificant, masked by the power of Soul that I always relied on. Looking at my hands, the Iris stones clamped to my arms, I wondered, what was I fighting for? Why was I so engrossed at defeating my father that I wondered the world aimlessly searching for him? Was it duty? I don’t know, but I can feel the flame that once ignited so brightly slowly being suffocated away. The Iris stones drew power form the soul of the user, but now I can’t feel an inch of that power. Why is that so? What am I living for? I am given duty, but the confidence to accomplish it isn’t there. Strength. I seek it, yet why do I want it? What is my place in this world? What justifies my existence? Just… who am I!?

And I realized I had no answers.

~*~

Marag: You sure took your time, Gatou.
Gatou: I never intended this to happen. I had much greater expectation in my boy and it seems I was mistaken. I gave him some advice but in the end it’s all up to him.
Marag: True. That boy doesn’t realize how great and perilous the path in front of him is. If he stays indecisive, not discovering himself, he would not only endanger himself but those around him as well. He must realize this; true strength comes from the heart. And to unleash it, one must take the most painful path ever; the journey into one’s soul.

@Angel: Reiz, make him stay that way, I am going to lock Reaper in.
Reiz: Okay. *Grip Locker* Hurry up, I won't be able to hold him for long.
Angel: *chanting spell in an unknown language*
Jester: What language is that?
Reiz: Never mind that, you better get ready, in case he breaks my spell.
Jester: Okay…..
Angel: *Holy Imprisonment* a silver cage with holy transcript bind itself on DD’s hand, locking the unholy power of Reaper from possessing him
Reaper: ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! DAMN YOU CHILD OF HEAVEN!!! YOU’LL PAY FOR THIS!!!!!
DD: ARGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!
Reiz: DD!!! Calm down, you’ll be fine… DD!! Can you hear me? Jes!! Come here and help me!!
Jester: I can’t, she needs help!
Reiz: Never mind her, she’ll be fine in a minute. Come here!
Jester: But…
Reiz: COME HERE!!!
Angel: Go, and help Reiz, I am fine.

Jester hurried towards Reiz and DD. DD was sweating all over, clutching his arm. He looks bad… Reaper power was way too much for DD…

Reiz: We need to carry him back to the inn and wait for tomorrow morning, Angel will perform the Ancient Spirit Ritual on him, which will protect him for another week of sanity.
Jester: Why not now?
Angel: No, he needs to be fully conscious while I perform the spell.
Jester: What if the spell u did just now wears off?
Reiz: It won’t, Reaper is strong, but he was so helpless when the spell binds his power, that means he has no way to counter or even dispel that spell.
Jester: … You sure are strong, Angel… too strong…
Angel: It bored the pants of me if you keep telling me the same thing.
Art: I guess I am late? *walks out from nowhere* I found something that might interest you guys.
All:

@All : ??
Art : Err, lets get back to the inn first shall we?
Angel : Yes, we should get back to the inn first. And Jester, you owe us an explanation.
Jester : What explanation?
The group of people the pointed to their forehead.
Jester : oh.. err... that... err.... lets talk on d way back.

As they're walking back to the inn, slowly...
Jester : Well, on my head lies the Seal of the Moon.
All :  Seal of the Moon??
Jester : Yea... basically there's a story behind this seal....

********** Seal of the Moon **********
Supposedly, 5 thousand years ago, on the Moon that we see now every night, is where the Palace of Eternal Light lies. There wasn't anyone in the Palace, except for the Moon God, Moon Goddess, Moon Child and Advisor of Light. And their Main objective is to keep the Moon from being destroyed by 'moving stars' around them. After around 2 thousand years later, the Advisor of Light went checking around the Palace and saw a blue light shining from the Moon Goddess' room. He headed him and saw the man-sized mirror in the room was emitting blue light. He ran back to the Moon God and told him about it. They got worried about it and the four of them charged their power to the maximum and summoned the Shield of Grace that should last for quite some time to help them. But by doing so their power was weakened by half, and if the shield were to be hit by a lot of 'moving stars' at the same time, Moon will be history. But for the Moon's good, too they have to do it, to check out the Light-emitting mirror. They reached the Moon Goddess' room and found the mirror. Moon God examined it, and finally touched it and got absorbed into the mirror, Moon Goddess', Moon Child and the Advisor of Light, tried to help but too got absorbed into the mirror. They reappeared in a cave, as it seems that the mirror is a portal to somewhere, somewhere not on the moon. They opened their eyes and found 2 men standing there.
: They're from the Moon?
???2: No doubt, I'm sure my portal was opened to the Moon.
: Get them then!

Moon God summoned a flash of light to blind the 2 men and ran of with M.Goddess, M.Child and A.o.L. They can't be fight with their power halved and without knowledge of how strong the enemies are, they're good enough to be able to open a portal to the Moon. The 2 men regained sight and charged out of the cave, just to see the 4 of them running towards a small village. They gave chase, not wanting to lose what they 'summoned'. The 4 Moon-ians reached the village, the Village of Kuishka. (They're in Mitrash but they didn't know). An old man came out and sense the power in them but never said a word. He saw the 2 men dashing towards the village and immediately recognized them.

Old man : Come with me!
4 Moonians :    
Old man : Follow!!

The 4 of them followed the old man into a house. And when the men came, the old man tried to 'shoo' them away.

: Old man, get out of our way, we've tried so hard to find a way to summon the portal we're not going to give up this easily.
Old Man : How dare you talk to the village elder like that!
???2 : As if we care, old man Atrikosh.
Atrikosh : Endrea, Regard, stop what you're doing. You're polluting the Blood of our tribe!
Endrea () : I don't care. What we want is simple!! POWER!
Regard (???2) : And FAME!
Atrikosh : And you'll get both by mastering our tribe's special power and using it for good reasons.
Endrea : Useless piece of power, I don't even want to have a look at it, cut the crap old man, u either give us the 4 Moon people, or we have to get them the tough way.
Atrikosh : That is if you can!

Endrea and Regard combined power and summoned spikes to pierce out of the floor. Atrikosh evaded and used the special power of the Village of Kuishka -- Slash of the Saint.

A bright light flashes and injured Endrea and Regard's left and right arm. The men then ran away, asking Atrikosh to beware.

Atrikosh : And I thought you would learn by letting you live....
He went back into his house. The 4 Moonian thanked him and gave him the 'Trial of the Moon'.

The Trial of the Moon is a special crystal that is able to give protection to any hazardous nature disaster and a hidden ability the Moon God didn't want to tell. ~ The Trial of the Moon is the Artifact Arghaim stole for Necrid's Boss ~

After Moonians finished with their story, they went back to the cave just to find the portal has gone. Their power is depleting because of the strong evil scents in the place(Mitrash) and they will die. They thought of a way that is to live in people, grant them power and rest until the portal was found....

********** Seal of the Moon **********

Jester : And that's the story.
Angel : And the Portal wasn't found it seems.
Jester :It was but it seems that the Portal disappears very often, as in sometimes they just see it for one second and the other, it's not there anymore.
Reiz : and who was the first to be the 'house' for the Moonians?
Jester : Ancestor Atrikosh of course. It seems that the others are not compatible, only Ancestor Atrikosh, so ALL four of them lived in him.
Art : So you have their powers?
Jester : Yes, and it is going to stay in me, even if they leave, because they're in me for a long time. Sending the seal down when the Compatible person is still an infant passes it down.
Angel : And the Trial of the Moon? Where is it?
Jester : It wasn't found after Arghaim stole it.
Angel : And what's the hidden power?
Jester : It seems that the one that ordered Arghaim to steal it is the only one who knows...
Reiz : And the power u used just now......
Jester : Supposedly, Halt and Lock is used by the Moon Child to stopped the 'moving stars' while M.G, M.GDS and A.o.L destroys them. My power has only 3 stage though, the Moon Child (Primary), Advisor of Light(Secondary) and Moon Goddess (Tertiary). According to my Elder, Ancestor Atrikosh seems to be the only one that is able to use Moon God's power, I can't seem to unleash his power somehow.
Art : How about Regard and Endrea? Where're they now.
Jester : They're not seen after the portal incident. But it's rumoured they found a new power to keep them alive until now, yet it's not been proved.
Reiz : Why didn't you unleash full power then?
Jester : There are consequences.
Angel :What consequences?
Jester : After they had rested in people's mind of 3 thousand years, their bodies and minds has been really weak, and their power has been fully recovered. If they were to come out on their own will, their powers will still deplete. If we use their full force and make them to come out.. they will....... bring out my dark side, and use him as their "body".
All :    
Jester : After been passing down into so many bodies, many evil thoughts and negative aspects went into them. Even the famous good guys has a dark side, just that it isn't shown.
Reiz : Which means...
Jester : If I ever unleash the power, there'll be 2 me, A good me and a Bad me, And I totally have no idea how to get the 2 me back into one.
Angel :    
Jester : Plus, I only know the 3 stages' power. I don't even know how strong Moon God is. I might be beaten by the dark me myself....
All : .......

And then they stopped.... They reached the entrance of the inn....

@We reached the inn while it is approaching dawn. Everyone was exhausted from the battle with Reaper. Only Art is still alert and full of energy, thanks to him, they all travel back with Wind Surfer. The story behind the Moon’s Seal has different effects on them all. Reiz was surprised that he had learn nothing at all about the Moonians, after all he is a Warlock. He is doubtful of the story, but there isn’t much he can do about it, especially when he knew so little about them. Art was suspicious, Jester came across as someone he doesn’t trust, and maybe it was because of the many secrets he kept away from them. Angel, all the incidents that take place lately has weigh down her trust towards anyone, with all the things happening at the moment, she choose not to trust anything at all, fearing that it will lead her to disappointments… again…

***********************************************************

~The Inn~

Angel:  I need to take a rest…
Reiz: Sure, you should take a rest before the spell tomorrow.
Art: Can I talk to the both of you first? It won’t take long.
Jester:  Huh? What about me?
Art: This does not involve you.
Jester:  Hey! How come? I am in the team too!!!
Art: You better remain uninvolved, if you wish to be alive, that’s it.
Jester: …  FINE! Don’t tell me anything! *He burst upstairs to his room*
Angel: You shouldn’t have said that. He fought with us so hard today. Why can’t you let him know?  
Art: Like I said, his life is at stake.
Reiz: And what exactly id that supposed to mean?
Art: Come, let’s get a private parlor.
Angel: … Okay.

The three of them went into a private parlor provided by the Innkeeper, which was located far from the dining area.

Reiz: So, can we start yet?
Art: I found it.
Angel: What?
Art: The Sacred Door… remembers?
Reiz: WHAT? When? And where?
Art: I found it this morning, in the heart of the forest.
Angel: … This is not good anyone else saw it?
Art: No, I sealed it once I saw it.
Reiz: No one should know about this… or else…
Art: Mitrash will be a legend…

@Gibb was eating quite ravenously with Devanna when they came back carrying DD. Devanna stood up in alarm when they saw them but Gibb just threw a glance and continued eating. But he made one remark before they all their separate ways

Gibb: Nice fight... Do you know what is your potential now do you, Priestess, Lulianar? Use it wisely...

***

Inside the realm...

Rygar: You are almost done now, faster than I thought so...
Bean: Yeah, what is the next step then?
Rygar: Don’t get cocked up, boy! After this, you can repair your body... You will rise again with the power of the True Darkness...
Bean: Heh, and until know I don’t understand what is the difference between Darkness and True Darkness.
Rygar: Yeah, you wouldn’t understand it with your... Wait, I sense something in the realm...
Bean: *alerts suddenly* Now you mention it... I do feel something...

Bean carefully weaved his power and launched it to his surrounding, sensing whatever it is...

Bean: DAMN! An Infernal!!
Rygar: What?? Who unleashed it? Didn’t they know that a battle inside the realm is dangerous!! They could disrupt the balance!!!
Bean: I don’t know. I can only think of one thing that is pissed with me, Necrid...
Rygar: But even he should know not to...
Bean: No time to talk now old man, here it comes

A planar existed suddenly, just as Lissath does when he was in there. Bean stood up, ready for battle, when he felt a terrible howl from his back. He evaded just in time, and the Infernal punch hit the ground. Bean felt shaken to his core, and then knew how fragile this realm is, and of what importance it is to him. Another punch he evaded, and he understood why it is imperative to keep this realm intact while fighting a mindless Infernal...

***

Keif was reading some kind of notice he received earlier, when the gates of Heaven suddenly trembled... He and the other Watchers and some angels was shocked by this, then a young Watcher came in bearing a news... "Someone is battling inside the Realm of the Unholy!!"

Keif: Oh no... They didn’t mean to destroy the world now, didn’t they...

***

Lissath was talking to some of his underling, when his soul suddenly shaken by something... Then Rygar voice came to him...

Rygar: Someone sends an Infernal in there!! Found out who he is quickly, before it or Bean destroys the Realm!!!

Crying out in anger, Lissath shouted a few orders and fetch his sword, Assara Kathol, to search for the master of the Infernal

***

Devanna went with Jester, as Jester told her about the power of Moon Child, when DD reacted strangely as the Reaper inside of him struggled against the Holy Imprisonment. But DD was rambling "Don’t let them destroy her! Stop them!!" Devanna and Jester stood back, alarmed, as they didn’t know what to do, then she looked out of the window, in the night sky...

Devanna: Oh God...

***

Gibb was smoking the pipe, enjoying the midnight sky when suddenly the sky rippled... He stood up in alarm, then slapped himself to make sure his eyes wasn’t playing tricks on him, but he saw it again, the ripple in night sky...

Gibb: What in the world...?

***

Necrid's master was enjoying the pandemonium that surrounded the cave inside, as the effects of the battle reached his minions... then Necrid came to him...

Necrid: Master, what is the meaning of this? Why, master?
: Either way, I will achieve what I want, if the realm is destroyed, the scale will also tip, though not in the way I wanted it, but still the balance is disturbed...
Necrid: But master...
: Quite Necrid, and let me enjoy the shrieks of pain and agony!!

***

Art: Why are you grimacing Reiz?
Reiz: I don’t know... I felt my heart was wrenched a couple of times now. Like somebody punching me, only not physically but at my soul, at my power


***

Lissath searched all the Realm entrance, tried to ignore the pain at his soul, and to ignore the ripples at the Realm surfaces... Then he found what he was looking for...

Lissath: Maza!! You traitor!! Do you know what are you doing?!
Maza: I'm sorry Lissath, I serve another master now, he gave me a hell lots more power than when I serve under him...
Lissath: Damn you!! Assara Kathol, burn him in Hell Fire!! True Smite

Lissath jumped and threw his sword at Maza. The sword suddenly was covered with black flames, but then Maza's had activated his Guardian Spirits. The sword hit the Spirits, destroying it with one blow, and the sword ricocheted back to Lissath. Maza however was preparing a spell of his own, and then...

Maza: Dark - Fangs of Cerberus - Left!!

A doglike apparition came out of nowhere, with three heads, and the left head suddenly gripped Lissath in his deadly mouths. Lissath screamed in agony , while Maza smiled wickedly and prepared his next spell

Lissath: Damn you, Maza!! Unleash - True Darkness!!!

Cerberus was gone, and Maza concentration was broken as the sudden surge of power surrounds him, power of the untainted dark...

Maza: NO!! Even Necrid couldn’t... Damn you! Dark - Impale Spears!!

But the magic turned within him, and he was suddenly impaled by his own magic. Matza screamed in pain, then Lissath was upon him...

Lissath: This is my reward for serving him faithfully... Remember it when you meet the King of Hell, and faced his wrath... True Darkness - Zero Smite...

***

Inside the realm, Bean had thrown everything he had known at the Infernal, but he was actually delaying it, as it was immune to magic. Bean knew he had to end this quickly... but he needs more time to strike at Infernal's weak spot... Even now he felt the evil was slowly evading his soul as he drew in the power to cast his magic... Suddenly the Infernal stopped, apparently confused, as he waited for orders that didn’t come...

Bean: Now my chance!! Dark Summon - Blade of Death Scythe!!

A curved dark blade suddenly emerged from his right hand, then as the blade appeared, he knew what he had to do to defeat a being of Hell, when he himself was a minion of Dark...

Rygar: No don’t!! It is too dangerous, boy!!!
Bean: Unleash - True Darkness - Zero Smite!!

And Bean felt it as he strikes the Infernal at his weak spot, that the power of True Darkness is, really like true darkness that surrounded his soul, sweet, powerful, yet truly evil...

***

Reiz: I'm ok now, it seems the pain stopped...
Angel: What happen??
Reiz: I... I don’t know...
Art: It could be... it...
Angel: It? What it?
Art: It is only a rumour, only a story of old, a... legend... like the Last Conjurer...

Inside DD's room

Jester: He's calming down now... Good thing that spell hold... Devanna??
Devanna: The sky... it has gone back to normal...

Outside...

Gibb: Maybe the rumour I read in the Forbidden Books of Magic... It is true after all... Is this the true power of it??

Outside the Realm...

Lissath was kneeling on one knee, trying to keep out the pure evil from consuming his soul... To give in means his Death, for the King of Hell didn’t show mercy to those who embrace the True Darkness, yet didn’t have the strength to pull back from it... The balance must be upheld, he said...

Lissath: Assara Kathol, you have been faithful once again... I honour you...
Rygar: The sword of yours is always tied to you... One of the reason why we chose you... Unlike other demons, you have known love and its sacrifice... And for it you are closer to human...
Lissath: Yes... I know...

Inside Bean's room...

Bean sat up after his battle with Infernal, his True Darkness powers he didn’t want to unleash it, he set out healing his body with only his Dark power... Yet he will not forget the moment he embrace that power, how it runs through it veins, how marvelous and sweet that power, and how that same power tried to eat him from the inside, trying to take control of him, make him a slave of his own powers.

Bean: The cons of using the True Elements, right Rygar?

@During the fight with Jester, Terra and the others exchanged glances with Baelen, who inadvertently warped out beside them.
Baelen : The traitors!
Terra : Don’t get worked up. We're here with the same aim as you. I don’t think you want to fight considering your state now.
Baelen : Then I'll let the others handle you. *Tries to call for backup*
Terra : I wouldn't do that if I were you. The city is close, and we wouldn’t want a repetition of the events that happened the last time he was around would we? Unlike you, we are not bound by any rules.  
Baelen looks frustrated, but leaves after watching Reaper being subdued.
Terra's companion : Is it over?
Terra : It seems so... though it looked like he went easy on that boy.  *They too leave the area*

Also during the fight, in a surrounding resembling that of his hometown (he is in his mind since Reaper is in control), DD sat under a shady tree at the top of a hill. With the gentle breezes blowing, he was questioning his actions. Was he right in doing anything for his own survival? Was he wrong in endangering others for the very same action? There was not truthful answer to that question, he realized. For there was no looking back to what he had did, all he could do was pray for the well being of the others. After a while, someone choked him from behind. (This is the screaming phase in which the binding spell was applied to Reaper)
: Struggle! Scream! Hahahahahah~  
(DD screamed as he struggled to free himself from the grip. Before long, the person let him go. DD turns around and finds Reaper there, trying to look innocent.)
DD : What... *cough* was that for..? *cough cough*
Reaper : I needed a little act. And I must say you screamed like a girl.  *pulls off from his body the traces of magic caused by the binding spell*
DD : Grr.... What happened out there?!
Reaper : Nothing special. Sent the Watcher packing, had some fun with your friend... Needed something fitting to end today's events. Not quite what I expected but I'll let him savour his "victory" for the time being. You can have your piece of meat back now.
DD : Someone being generous? I wonder who was hell bent on taking over my body some while ago..  
Reaper : Do whatever is necessary, nothing more. I just found the time to be... Inappropriate for a permanent return. If I wanted to you'd be pawned long ago.
DD : And the reason for this confidence? *Reaper conjures an image of DD, then rapidly reduces it to skeletons. Then he says - "What would you have chosen?". DD looks at his left hand* So this was your work?!  
Reaper : As I said before, I want to see how long can a person delay the inevitable. Going for easy pickings ain't my style.  * DD feels truly insulted. Then, a voice was heard.*
: Hello? Can anyone hear me? *DD looks at reaper, who in turn stares back*
Reaper : It's your head after all, why ask me? It could be your imagination, or maybe not. *DD gives the green light and Ariel appears in front of them*
Ariel : DD! Are you alright? *goes hug DD* You had me worried when I learned you bought a coffee along with poison back in the town... I couldn't communicate with the others for they seem to have sealed their mind...
DD : *Puzzled* Are you for real?... But I thought...?
Ariel : The fall.... Erm, I meant some spirits managed to save my spirit before HE blew me up! *Evil glare at Reaper. Reaper looks away, pretending to be innocent again. In his mind, he said to himself - "I was right all along". He then looks back only to find a sword pointed at him*
Reaper : My my, what do we have here? You want to fight? Let me tell, you, It's going to hurt HIM more than it hurts you or me. Do not forget where we stand now.
DD : "Calms Ariel down" Cool it... Please, don’t fight. He saved me a few moments ago.*Ariel looks in disbelief before lowering her sword upon realizing that Reaper had a legitimate reason in keeping DD alive*
DD : I'm glad you understand. For now I'm glad your fine. *hugs Ariel. Reaper looks on and sighs, then something visibly disturbed him. He then goes ballistic, shouting - "Don’t let them destroy her! Stop them!!". He then falls to his knees, with his head in his hands. Ariel and DD rush over to take a look. (Bean's post)
DD : What's wrong?
Reaper : Someone tried to disrupt the balance of the realms... and failed. Try asking your friends, for they should have felt it more than I did. I have just partial darkness elements. I'll be listening. Oh, and please don’t tell your friend I went easy on him. *Disappears*
DD was back in control of his body again.

@Why am I chosen?? Is there no one else that can bear this burden...?
I choose you, the others who have wield me after Rygar, they all are worthless crap... But you... You are...
Then what is my purpose...?
To uphold the balance... right now light prevailed until Karthok gave up my sister... now the scales are in balance, but tip precariously
What must I do then?
Regain me... and kill the man behind all this...
Who is this man??
...You will know... Regain me from the foul grasp of that Demon Lord...
I have tasted the sweetness of pure power...
All the reason why I choose you... Regain me, and I'll open up more than ever before!!

***

Gibb thought that nothing can surprises him, since the order came to him. But last night he was very much surprised by the ripping of the night sky. The words from the Forbidden Books came vaguely into his mind, but as far as he remembered, it was only a rumour. Does this means that the rumour were true??

Gibb was in another surprise though, when he stepped in Bean's room to check on him. He saw him, sitting on a chair, drinking some ale, and looking out towards the night sky. He was surprised not only how Bean was cured, but also some kind of difference in Bean's persona. The Bean he had knew was pathetic, almost worthless, except when he was in a tight pinch. But the Bean that sat now, was calm, calculating, and... cold. Gibb cautiously approached him, and helped himself to some ale before began speaking to him

Gibb: Nice night wasn’t it, a shame you were unconscious... You missed the fireworks before.
Bean: Yeah, but the night is almost over...
Gibb: I see dawn is almost upon us... You're right...

They sat drinking quietly... then,

Gibb: How?
Bean: What?
Gibb: How did you manage to heal yourself?? That punch was full of Light from that Priestess and that girl...
Bean: Oh, that... To me old man, "What" is more important than "How"... as in "What happened while I'm unconscious"
Gibb: Don’t try to change the subject boy!!
Bean: I will change it so many times as I like, old man...
Gibb: Since when are you so full of yourself??
Bean: Since you gave me that punch...

Gibb watched Bean's eyes closely. Then he averted from it, almost afraid. He saw in that eyes some kind of hidden power, maybe equal if not surpassing him. He began to tell him the stories after the punch... About Art, about Jester hidden power... Then...

Bean: Moon Child power, wonder if it is a True Element... and that Priestess too, wonder if she got the talent...
Gibb: True Element? What are you talking about???
Bean: Nothing...
Gibb: No, you said about the True Elements. What do you mean about that?! Answer me dammit...

Bean gave him a sickly smile, and then said...

Bean: How does it feel to be at the end of a riddle now, old man? Now leave me alone! I need to think!!!

***

Outside Devanna was just about to enter Bean's room, when she heard Gibb and Bean's voice talking. She wondered but at the same time relieved that Bean is ok. But she heard next stunned her... This is not the Bean she knew who talks...

After the exchange, Gibb was leaving, his face grim... he said to her the words she will never forget...

Gibb: He has changed... maybe for the worse...

***

Devanna was in her room when she heard whispers in her mind, a woman's voice...

Soon, very soon
What? Who are you? What do you mean??
My brother will return to his rightful owner soon, and we will work together to bring down a common foe...
What are you talking about? Who are you? Answer me!!!
He who pulls the string... is not easy... You will entering a world unlike any other... But you are strong...
What do you mean??
Be prepared, daughter of Hizbal...

***

Are you ready, direct lineage of Arakan?
Bring it on!!!

@A shadow dashed past the forest, with a few others pursuing behind. The first shadow suddenly came to a halt when another shadow jumped down from a tree right in front of it.

: Stop right there, girl! You're not going anywhere!  
girl : Do you think so?

The few shadows pursuing her reached her and stopped, a total of 3.
Pursuer 1 : You've got nowhere to run now.
Pursuer 2 : Give us the damn thing or else!
girl : Or else what? You'd beg me for it?
Pursuer 3 :  You asked for it!!

Pursuer 3 (P3) dashed towards the girl and tried to throw a punch at her. She took a step back and slap P3 right at the face, the slap was hard enough to make P3 spin and fall onto the floor.
P2 jumped and gave sweep kick on air while P1 squatted down and did a sweep kick on the floor. The girl took out a metal flute and hit it on P2's leg, making him fall down holding his leg. She then jumped, evading P1's leg. then grab her from behind at the waist. She swings her metal flute up and hit 's head. releases his grab and the girl gave another hit on 's stomach with her elbow.
The four then try to stand firmly while surrounding the girl.

girl : You still want more...?
P1,P2,P3, :  
girl : *grin*

The girl swings her flute up to her mouth and blew a melody, a soothing melody. The four stood there and feel a warm breeze around them. Suddenly, their heads began to ache and they kneel down grabbing their heads with both of their hands. The girl keeps blowing even after the four were rolling on the floor. Then, she ended her melody with one loud and firm note that sends the four flying behind, only to be stopped when they hit a tree.

girl : *smirk* How's the Dread Melody?
: *huff puff* ....huh..huh..... You're...you're.......... you can't be....
P1 : ...w..w..wh..who is....she...??
: .....Elodia...
P2 :  
P3 :  ... Elodia!??!?! The...the.. Melodist....
Elodia :  Hmph, took you long enough to know. So since you know who I am, you're not going to take it away from me right?

She said it as she waves the metal flute.

Four : .......
Elodia : HMph..
Elodia said as she dashes away from the forest.
: Tell the master, we'll have to get PhramGra (frem - gra) back.
The pursuers : Yes, sir!

The four of them picked themselves up and dashes the other direction.

@It was almost dawn when Angel woke them all up and drags them all into the forest.

Angel: Come on! Get up!!
DD: Why are we here at this kind of hour?
Angel: For you, DUH!! *smack*
Reiz: Oh, it is time already?
Art: Can’t I just sleep through this? This doesn’t involve me, right?
Jester: Ya, me too…
Angel: You three stand guard, I want no interruption.
Reiz, Art & Jester: ……
DD: …
Angel: Let’s start. DD, stand there, in the middle of the spell ring *points at a spell ring drawn on the forest ground*

DD walked towards the center and stood there, not knowing what to do….

Angel: I am going to start, so pay attention. DD, dun fall asleep, or I’ll Grand End you.
DD: *GULP!!* I won’t!!
Reiz, Art & Jester: Hahahahaha!
Angel: I am starting. *starting to chant in the same weird language she used in her previous spell*

Strong winds suddenly blows from nowhere, sending all the leaves on the ground into the air. Birds flee the spell ground, and the trees sway in all direction roughly. The rest of them stood at their position, not knowing what is happening…

A golden aura starts to form within the spell ring, seeping into DD’s body from his skin.

DD: … err… this feels weird…
Angel: *continues chanting*
Reiz: Just keep quiet…

*inside DD*

Reaper: ARGH!!! Dammit! This Heaven’s Child is damn strong, I won’t be able to do anything if the spell is completed! HEY! Boy, do something!!
DD: Are you out of your mind? She’ll Grand End me if I try anything!
Reaper: WHAT? Grand End? The Ultimate Spell?
DD: Yes. And I am still young, I don’t feels like dying just yet!
Reaper: Shoot! I underestimate her!

*back to outside*

Angel: AH!!!! *crouches down on her knees, grabbing her hands*
Reiz: *runs to Angel immediately* What’s wrong?
Angel: My bracelets!!!  2 of them are missing!!! I can’t complete the spell without them!!
Art: … So, what are we going to do now? The spell is half way through.
Angel: The spell is enough to bind Reaper from over-takings, but not enough to completely seal him… you’ll hear him in your brain, DD.
DD: …
Jester: We better find the other two bracelets fast.
Angel: Wait *Holy Alliances* I’ll be able to track the other two with this.
Reiz: good, let’s get going!


FLASHBACK!!!

xs : found my target *starts running towards angel*

CRASH!!!

Angel: OUCH!!
xs : OUCH!! I am so…. so… sorry.. I.. I didn’t see you.. *got up, cleaning his clothes and picking up books that fall off from his backpack*

Angel: … It’s okay.. *got up and cleans her clothes as well, Jester helps the stranger pick up his books*

with a swift movement while taking the books from angel, he manages to remove two of angels bracelets without her noticing it

xs: I got to rush, I am so sorry…
Angel: Oh, it is okay, be careful.
xs: Okay… thanks *rushes off*


in an alley nearby,

xs : that was too easy. ugh...banged my head pretty hard there, what is she wearing anyway, steel plates?!


later in day, back in his room.

xs : hmm...this bracelets must be worth a fortune. I wonder how I look with them on.

: you'll look like a gay.

with a swift turn of the hand a dagger flew from xs's hand towards the voice.


: *catches the dagger single-handedly* heeyyy........that no way to treat a senior.

xs : bah, Steiner you bastard, you could at least knock before coming in. what foul wind blew you in here anyways.

Steiner : what..? I can’t come and check on my juniors?

xs : like I am going to believe that.

Steiner : ya ya ya, this is a guild message, all members are to report to the guild's hall in 3 days. something big is going to happen. you BETTER be there.

xs : ok ok.

and with that, Steiner just jumped out of the window and disappeared into the shadows.

xs : what a waste of time, he knows better than anyone I wont attends such boring gatherings.
xs : sheeeesh......cant he just use the door. what’s this? *notices a letter on the table*

xs : *reads the letter* interesting, very interesting indeed. looks like I wont be bored for some time.

xs : hmmm......these bracelets got some strange aura on it. *puts on both the bracelets*
xs : ack, I really look gay with these on. *starts to remove the bracelet* Whaa...?! it won’t come off!!!! what in the blue hell!!! *tries really really hard to remove the bracelets but failed*

xs : sigh, looks like curiosity got the better of me. I’ll have to get someone from the guild to remove it for me then.

@Bean rose up from his chair when morning came. He felt the chills in his bones, as if darkness crept upon this city... also he felt the sun warming up his skins, as if the light was shining its blessing... The two major elements will be clashing today, all intend to gain superiority in this small world. Maybe Sirroth would be sharing the same fate as King's City... thinking about it gave him the shudders, Grand End could only be used if one understand all elements and use the destructive part of it... The Priestess and Keel could use it, he had used it once when he was under Necrid...

Bean took a deep breath to calm himself down. Grand End would never be unleashed here, it is too important for him for it to be destroyed. This city has further uses for him. It must not be destroyed...

When he reached the rooftop, he faced the north. Funny, he thinks... I am an agent of Darkness, yet I'm fighting Darkness... And Devanna, she would be facing the south, where some holy knights have gathered there quietly, intending to eliminate her. An agent of Light would be fighting the acolytes of Light, an agent of Darkness would fight the minions of Darkness... Thus was the order, which came from the Staffs

***

Angel, Reiz and Jester were searching for the bracelets, when they heard some commotions from a house. They went in to check, and saw some thugs killing some family. Only a little girl was left, and before the thugs could kill her, all three were upon them, spells blazing and fists flying. Before long the thugs were on the ground...

Angel: What the...? In bright daylight too!! Poor girl...
Jester: (approaching the little girl) Are you ok girl? What's your name...

As the girl was about to answer, she screamed again. Alarmed all of them turned to face the thugs, and a sword was flashing down on Angel... She was lucky that out of reflexes she managed to put up a barrier, as Reiz knocked him out with his spell, or so he thinks...

Reiz: (looking at the thug, now stood up again) What? Dammit, that should finish him off now...
Jester: (eyeing the other thugs, hugging the little girl) Well it is not enough...
Angel: I felt it, the blow was infused with some kind of power... this is no ordinary thugs...
Reiz: Well then, we have to send them to their graves then!! Jester, escape with the girl!
Make sure she is safe!!

***


Art was standing guard over DD when a few people suddenly appeared...

Thug 1: That's them... KILL EM ALL!!!
Art: Huh, what??

***

Necrid: Master, the plan has began smoothly...
: Good, prepare your underlings Necrid... Though we had infused some power in those captured thugs, our enemies are strong and might make short works on them...
Necrid: Yes master...
: Wait until the knights charged, that would be the signal....

***

Gibb was looking forward to a nice nap, when he felt something is not right with the earth beneath him. He knelt down, touched the earth, and gasped suddenly

Gibb: Damn, he had made his moves!!

He ran back towards the inn, fearing the worse...

***

Devanna was resting, when she felt compelled to go to the rooftop. She brought with her, the cloaked thing that her father gave to her, at least she thought he was her father. On the roof she saw Bean looking towards the north part of town...

Bean: So you have come...
Devanna: So it has begun?? (although she didn’t understand why she said this...)
Bean: Yes, but this is only the beginning though... It will get worse with time.
Devanna: Yes... there will be many deaths among the innocents though...
Bean: It is unavoidable...
Devanna: I know, but I still be feeling sad though...(took her place in watching the south side of the town)

Then she felt some kind of invisible hand closed upon her own... she heard Bean said...

Bean: But it will never be equal to what we have been going through...

***

All over the town, chaos reigned, but it seems that it was converging into one point, the inn. Thugs killing mercilessly, the local police could do nothing to stop them, as if the thugs were given extraordinary strength. And no one noticed outside what is happening in the south outskirts of the town, as a group of knights were preparing their charge... More so no one noticed what is happening below the earth, as Necrid was preparing his minions to go up and continue the havoc, once the thugs had been eliminated...

@Moments before the thugs came in, Reaper was thinking.
Reaper : That girl… Something’s not right about her. No human could use that spell… There’s certainly more than meets the eye. I should proceed with my plan just in case.

The thugs came in. DD looked at Art, who in turn looked back at him.
DD & Art : …? Guests of yours? * A thug slashes them. DD ducks whereas Art hops over the blade.* I guess not.
Art prepares to battle but DD makes a hasty scramble for the rear door.
Art : Hey, where are you going?
DD : Duh~ Where else? Anywhere but here! *reaches for the doorknob and pushes the door*
Art : But we’re not done with you yet! *fends off the thugs*
DD : Well, Angel bought us another week right? Curses, why won’t this door open?!! *the door doesn’t budge no matter how hard DD pushes. He then decides to pull it instead*
Art : Remember, she’s going to Grand End you if you don’t return.
DD : Oh, thanks for reminding me.  

DD pulls the door. A group of thugs swarms in instantly, pinning DD between the door and the wall… He groans, but the thugs surrounded Art for they all missed DD. Seeing his chance, he takes a few steps out of the door and starts running. Along the way he ran into a fight with a thug. It ended when DD hopped over a cart and rammed it into the pursuing thug. The wall of a structure was what he aimed, but the weight of the thug on the cart deviated him from his intended path and into a spiked fence. The thug ended up impaled on the fence.
DD : Oh god what have I done! Please forgive me. I’ll get help. *Ariel talks to him*
Ariel : Snap out of it. There’s something weird going on. *sees the thug slowly removing himself from the fence* Get a move on it!
DD : What the..? *drops his jaw* How the..? *screams and runs*
Ariel : Calm down would you? You’re going to attract more attention.
DD : Sorry~… *moves along quietly*

The town’s streets were littered with an assortment of items, presumably dropped by the panicking townsfolk when the thugs dropped by unexpectedly. DD then found himself near the town’s gate, where 2 thugs were stationed on the look out for any incoming backup. The thugs were about 3 meters apart, standing at each side of the gate with their backs facing DD. Thinking for a while, DD decided to take action. After dashing for a few meters, he was stopped by Ariel who forcefully took over his body and stopped him.
Ariel : What the hell do you think you’re doing?!!! * The thugs noticed DD and came after him. In their plain view, DD turned around and with the guards in pursuit, ran the opposite way, or so they thought.
DD : *As the thugs run past* …?
Ariel : Don’t act surprised. You’ve seen this before. * Another thug walks by* We’ll move once this guy gets out of the way.
Reaper : You know what I hate about light element spells? They are a cheap bag of tricks! They don’t help you get rid of opponents.
Ariel : So that’s why you learned dark spells. They make your job of assassination easier, right?
Reaper : Who told you that?
The thug walked past them, only to sense something is amiss and attacks blindly near them. The blade the thug thrusts missed DD by inches.
Ariel : How did he?
DD : I’ll handle this.
Ariel : Not here. The other thugs would surely return here when they realized they’ve been tricked. Let’s move this elsewhere.
DD starts to run again towards the outskirts of the town with the thug in pursuit.

After running for some distance, DD was getting tired. The thug was still on their heels. Ariel decided to take a stand and fights the thug. Bashing him a few times, the thug kept coming back at them.
Ariel : What’s gotten into this guy?
Thug : More… more… Let me feel the pain I desire…
Reaper : Just kill him and get it over with. *Ariel denies. She then stabs him in the thigh with the sharp end of the cross and shoves the guy away when he came closer. The wound on the thug healed back*
Ariel : Huh? This leaves me no choice. For once I agree with you, Reaper. He seems to be aided by some dark forces. Heaven forgive what I must do now. “Combination, element; object” *She binds the element of light to the cross. The cross, wielded as a sword, had a cutting blade (created by focusing high intensity light, meaning it will burn through stuff like a light sabre) formed at the long end to mimic a sword. She then slashes the thug at the arms. The arms fall off, but they quickly regenerated.*
Thug : I have found… Immortality… Hit me…Kill me… If you can… Hahahahahahaha *Ariel slashes off a few more limbs, but they all regenerate*
DD : *talks to Ariel* I’ve got a plan. If we can’t kill him, then I’ll just disable him.
Ariel : Go on.
When the thug came closer again, DD swiftly knocked the elbows, wrists, shoulders ankles, kneecaps and backbone of the thug guided by the critical strike technique with the blunt ends of the cross. The thug falls to the ground in screaming agony, unable to move any parts of his body. He would need professional help to set the bones and joints back into place.
DD : What should we do with him now?
Reaper : For one, SHUT HIM UP!!!
DD : I would if I could. The technique doesn’t show any point to hit!
Ariel takes over and sinks a punch into the thugs face, knocking him out cold.
Ariel : Done.
DD : I think we should head for higher grounds. We can observe the town from there. Once the place has returned to normalcy, we can just go back.

In heaven, Keif received orders to go down and check on Baelen and get on with his responsibilities as a Guardian. He descended and found Baelen.
Keif : So… how do you feel?
Baelen : I’m alright… just give me a few days and I’ll be fine. *Baelen senses something.* Hey, did you feel that?
Keif : Sure did. Now what? They tried to move the balance of power, and failed. Go find … *looks at Baelen*… Ok, I’ll investigate

[Angel]

@Angel and Reiz are both busy bashing up the thugs.

Reiz: What the hell? They don't die do they?
Angel: I sense dark power inside them, shouldn’t you be able to sense it too?
Reiz: Yes, I can, I thought I have problem with my sense, since they are thugs.
Angel: These are no normal thugs!! *Casting a Shield to fenced off another attack from an approaching thug*
Reiz: Angel, back off, I am casting.
Angel: Okay *Holy Force, a golden light barrier covers Angel and a form a 2 meters diameter range Shield around her*
Reiz: … *all of a sudden, the ground were covered in spell inscription, and almost immediately after the inscription, a large magnitude spell covered the entire village, a global spell, the long-forgotten spell of Shadows, the Hell’s Gate*

The Hell’s Gate only residues after a few minutes, after which it leaves behind a huge trail of destruction. Buildings were shattered; the trees and grounds were burned. The entire city was nothing but a mess. The only thing that seems to be completely destroyed is the entire thief guild. There seems to be mark of their existence anywhere around.

Angel:  … How did u do that? Casting a spell like that without even having to read the caster scripts?
Reiz:  Let’s just says that I am talented?  
Angel: … if that is the case, you are not just talented, you are a genius. Hell’s Gate? Who was the last Warlock that was able to cast it?
Reiz: … Let’s go check the others…  

_____________________________________________________________


Jester and Elodia were shielding behind Valvaris, which has appeared just a mere second before the entire town were swallowed into the black omega.

Jester: What in name of Heaven was that? O ________ O
Elodia:  I was just about to ask you that!!!
Valvaris: The Ancient Spell of Shadow, the Hell’s Gate, absorb all Shadow and Dark Elemental foes into the zero dimension to be banish. A spell long forgotten… it was a great luck that we survive this…
Jester: … Who could have cast such a spell?
Valvaris: I believe there is only one capable person with us who is able to yield the power of Shadows…
Jester: Reiz…  let’s go!! We got to find them!!

____________________________________________________________


Bean:  What was that?
Devanna: … someone released a strong spell…

_____________________________________________________________

DD was about to walk towards the hills but turns around when a strange noise came from the direction of the town. He was then surprised by a "wave" that passed through him as it spread outwards from the town.
DD:  What the hell was that?
Reaper:  Hell’s Gate!!! Who use it?? No one has been able to use the spell since me, and that was 400 years ago!!!
Ariel: WHAT? HELL’s GATE?? U means the Shadow Banishing Spell?
Reaper:  YES!! Who used it?
DD:  Will you two quit screaming in my head???
Reaper: SHUT UP!!  You could have been dead if you are not recognized as a party member by the caster! The spell absorbs every single Dark and Shadow Elemental foes in its spell area.
DD: What? I am NOT elemental!!!
Reaper: I AM!! Have you forgotten I am inside you?
DD: O________O
Reaper: Slow as usual! Find the Priestess!!
DD: Why her?
Reaper: The Warlock with her, it could be him!!!
Ariel: I thought the spell was sealed together with you when u was sealed?
Reaper: Yes, it was supposed to seal, and I have not unseal it. Nobody should be able to cast it, unless…
Ariel: Unless what?
Reaper: Unless he is Shadow Child… just like me…
Ariel: … Shadow Child??
Reaper: Royalty born to the parentage of Shadow Elf and Demon.
Ariel: Royalty?
Reaper: Yes, only the King and his direct bloodline can use banishing spell.
DD: Reiz is a Shadow Child? But he doesn’t looks like one…
Reaper: He has not fully matured yet. A Shadow Child takes 50 years to mature, only then you’ll be able to see the Shadow’s traits on his body.
DD: O_______O *hears a rumbling sound getting louder and louder* I don't think the day is over yet...  

@Xs : whaa...!!!!

hurries and backs away from the advancing black omega.

Xs : what in the world was that......

Xs cautiously approaches the village, looking at the destruction, wondering why there aren’t any bodies around.

Xs : god... thats some serious firepower, hmmm......1...4...5...what's that..?

[looks at a glowing orb nearby]

Xs walks cautiously towards the glowing orb, perfectly hiding his presence.

Peeking from behind a wall, he sees two figures standing there.
suddenly on of them turns around and Xs quickly blends himself to the wall and disappeared from view.

--------------------------------------------------

angel : huh....[turns around]
reiz : what’s wrong?
angel : I felt the presence of my bracelets, and I thought I saw someone.
reiz : you sure, I cant sense anyone near us
angel : I am sure I saw someone there.
reiz : I think you are seeing things, lets go find the others


------------------------------------------------------

Xs : shit....that was close, how did she know I was here. I got to get out of

here, those guys seems to be here to destroy the thief guild. looks like its time for me to pack and go.

Xs hurries and heads towards town


------------------------------------------------------

Eiion : what was that ?
fey : someone opened hell's gate.
Eiion : what’s that? I don’t feel any hostility at all from that thing.
fey : that’s coz your not a shadow or dark elemental. It’s a grand spell that banishes all shadow or dark entities. Looks like someone from the linage survived.
Eiion : those guys are strong...don’t you think so
fey: you can wipe that smile of your face. you know watt the master said.
Eiion : yea.....he said I can give them a little push
fey : .....
Eiion : lets go, the village is just ahead.
fey : how sure are you that he's there?
Eiion : very sure

@Gibb ran and ran towards the inn, making short work of the thugs that tried to stop him. but the thugs kept on raising no matter how hard he tried to fend him off. As he was about to reach the inn however, the thugs suddenly fell, and Gibb has his stride broken, as if the power pressure was too much... He tried to sense it, and it comes from the roof, Light and Dark mixing together. Then sounds of voices invaded his mind...

It is too much for me...
Steady Devanna, control it... though I am amazed though, that this much power is in you...
And this much is unleash from you... and from the others too...
Yes... that is true... See there is Gibb... There is the old man

Gibb recognized the voices as Bean and Devanna, communicating through their minds... Gibb grunted and jumped to the roof with his own power... The power concentration was heavy between the two of them. Before he could open his mouth though, a demon lord appeared across him... a demon lord with a sword...

: Don’t disturb them... This is new stuff for them... Let them concentrate...

***

After Reiz has unleashed the Hell Gate, they were left surveying the carnage that they have inflicted. A good thing that the citizens are not there. And then came an explosion from somewhere... Both of them turned to look and saw an Infernal...

Angel: Damn... That thing is immune to magic...
Reiz: Wait, did you feel below the ground?
Angel: What, didn’t your Hell Gate destroy them?
Reiz: Apparently, not the ones underground...

And with that the underlings of the darks began to emerge from the ground...


***

Jester and Elodia also heard the explosion and saw the fiery golem. And then the ground beneath them began to rumble, cracked and then out comes the minions of dark. Stunned for a while, but not long, they began to systematically obliterate as they came out, but it was getting out of hand, as they were too many of them... Elodia gave Jester a gesture and began to retreat...

***
DD was eyeing the knights as they charged, but then...

Reaper: Oh shit!! Evade!!!

DD moved out of the way, as a ball of light suddenly emerged from behind the knights and destroyed the city walls...

DD: They can use magic??
Ariel: This is a regiment of the highest order of the Knights... Both magic-user and melee attackers

Then arrows of Light began to fly through the city, exploding when came in contact...

Reaper: And goddamn good archers too...

***

Lissath: It has begun...

Gibb felt as both powers getting denser and denser, and he fell to his knees... even the Demon Lord Lissath staggered... Then both Bean and Devanna cried out simultaneously

Bean: Come forth - Infernal!!
Devanna: Arise - Holy Falcon!!

The golem known as Infernal, and the Falcon that Devanna rode to Sirroth suddenly appeared... Both of them staggered as the after effects took place, but Lissath was quick to Bean's side, as Gibb to Deanna’s...

Bean: Take good care of her old man... Let's go Lissath!!
Lissath: *drawing his sword* To battle we go, Assara Kathol!!

Gibb saw them jumped on each of the Infernal shoulders as it made its moves towards the others... The he heard Devanna said wanly...

Devanna: We must go too... Our enemies is near...

And Devanna began to climb up the falcon... Gibb gulped and sat behind her... The falcon began to take flight, and Gibb heard as the words of magic began to form from Devanna's mouth

***

Lissath was riding on the shoulders of the Infernal, when he saw a man and a woman retreating from a horde of Dark minions. He felt respect for them to last this long, but he saw they will not last long... He turned to Bean for instructions

Bean: They both could take care of themselves, continue on!!
Lissath: As you command...

They rode on, but then Bean remembered something, the survivors from the thugs attack, they are now at one place, and in danger

Bean: Protect the innocents!!
Lissath: You? Showing compassion?? Now this is new...
Bean: Don’t argue with me, just go dammit!!

Lissath regarded for a moment... then

Lissath: You are truly of his line, Bean... As you command, Dark Sorcerer!!

And with that Lissath vanished, leaving Bean on his Infernal, who stomped on anything that stands in his way, to engage the other Infernal. Bean squinted his eyes and saw a familiar being riding that Infernal. He hissed and, rage consume him, started to mouth out the words of magic... Necrid was riding the other Infernal


***

Jester and Elodia continued retreating as the ground beneath them tremble. But at one place where the grounds stood still, they stopped and prepared for battle. Their retreat was tactics, to find a better place to fight...

There they began to cast off their skills in deadly combination, defeating their minions in a more systematic method. When they were joined by Reiz and Angel, who also retreated to find better grounds, the damage was far more devastating, as magic filled the area around them...

***
Devanna: Light - Protect Sphere!!

Devanna cast her protective magic as the knights halted their charge, and turned their attention to the falcon... The leader of the regiment it seems was an old man. Devanna seemed to know him, from Bean story this is the old man that had mislead him, before the angel Devanna lead him back to the right track, behind him Gibb was conjuring his magic, and the falcon too has its own skills, as it reared back and rays of Light flew out of its wings, piercing the knights. After this, it was Gibb's turn...

Gibb: Book of Space - Null!!

And another group of knight seems to be distorted, as space itself been changed, when it went back to normal, the distorted knights were gone

Gibb: I cant keep up with this? Don’t you have a destructive spell or something??
Devanna: Father taught me only support and defensive spells, I don’t have much offensive, even that I cant take out more than one enemy...
Gibb: Damn, I only have powers for one more... Then I have to go to lesser spells than the Book of Space

***

DD was hiding watching as the appearance of the falcon seemed to halt the knights’ charge. They began to attack this falcon with their magic...

DD: Isn’t that Devanna, and the old man?
Ariel: They wouldn’t last very long... We have to help them!!
DD: But why? They have killed half of the regiments already...
Ariel: Devanna is an unskilled Mage, plus most of her spells are not offensive, it seems. Look there, when they shoot those arrows, she had the magic up to defend against them She had to rely on that falcon and the Conjurer. The Conjurer is very old, and age has weaken him... As for the falcon, it could release so much...
Reaper: Respectable though, to absorb that much impact..
DD: And how are we supposed to help?
Reaper: Do you want my help? *grins*

***

The citizens who have escaped the thugs have assembled at one place, the town square at the center of the town... then they heard the explosion, and then the minions started attacking... But before the minions had time to reach them however, they heard someone or something shouted...

: Dark - Protect Sphere

And then they were covered in an unholy sphere, the minions it seems couldn’t get through this sphere. Above the sphere stood a demon. The people started panicking, as if the demon would come to slay them... But then the demon spoke

Lissath: No fear, citizens of Sirroth. I come to help...

The people panicked still, and tried to get out of the sphere, but as the sphere kept the minions outside, it kept the people of Sirroth inside too...

Lissath: *sigh* Oh well I have to prove to them then...

The demon drew a sword and then it just hung there in midair. The demon then prepared his spell. The minions heard his incantations, looked up, and stunned to see a demon lord standing there. Then a few lesser demons knew this spell and instructed them the minions to go attack him, to break his concentration.

Lissath: Too late, fools!! Dark - Snake Bind!!!

Snakelike auras began to flow out, looking and searching its targets , binding them so that they couldn’t move. The ones who couldn’t be binded because they were outside its ranges, stood there stunned...

Lissath: Assara Kathol!! I have prepared them for you!! Satisfy your bloodlust, my beloved!!! Dark Seal Release - Assara Kathol - Rain of Swords!!!

An image of a woman appeared suddenly in front of the sword, smiling at Lissath who smiled back, then she vanished and the sword too. Then, from the sky, came the rain of swords, striking the minions who are binded, killing them instantly. After this carnage, the sword was there again in front of Lissath, along with the woman...

Lissath: Does that satisfy you, my beloved?? If not don’t worry, there are plenty more of these traitors from where they come from... But I have to lock you back inside this... Dark Seal Lock - Assara Kathol!!

And with that the woman vanished, as the demon looked out to see who dares come to face him

When the people of Sirroth remembered this event, where they were saved by a demon, they will remembered the exact word that that particular demon had used, for he had used "beloved", which they thought was alien to the creatures of the Underworld

@When Elodia and Jester are busy fending off the minions, another 2 came by to where they stand.

Jester : Angel! Reiz! Are you okay?
Angel : Of course we are
Reiz : Who is this? *looks at Elodia*
Jester : My sister.
Reiz, Angel :  
Elodia : The name's Elodia.
Jester : Now's not the time to chat!!

Jester shouted that line as he swings his katar and slashed another minion.
Jester : Sis, Cover me!

Elodia nodded and began playing a song with her flute. As the melody rings, sparkles of light began to form around Reiz, Angel, Jester and herself. Black sparkles formed a black sphere around each of them, while white sparkles formed white sphere.

Reiz :   'Unsheathe the Dream'... she's a melodist!
Angel : ...

Jester began charging power. All the minions that try to attack him was sent back by a beam shot out from the black sphere, while fireballs thrown at him are blocked by a shield conjured by the white sphere. A pillar of light then drives down from the sky onto Jester.

Jester: Moon Gravitation!!

Jester immediately swings his katar, slicing the pillar and burst it into the area, killing every minion in the affected radius (houses are not destroyed).

When it seems that things are clear, more minions appear.

Elodia : They don't stop coming!!
Jester : What should we do?
Elodia : Get out from sight first, then we plan!

@Reiz: Okay, so now what? I see no differences…
Jester: Elodia just made us all vanished from the view of our opponents. Easier to talk without interruption.
Reiz: You know I could just transfer all of us to somewhere else without having her to suffer.

*Notice Elodia is slowly getting exhausted*

Jester: … Whatever just starts planning now. What should we do?
Angel: Don’t ask me, if I use my spell, this city is as good as dead.
Jester: Don’t you have anything that has a smaller impact or target smaller group instead of universal?
Angel: … Yes, but they will just regenerate, so what’s the point of wasting my MP like that?  
Reiz: … Why don’t we pull them out of town instead? Then I can open Hell’s Gate again.
Elodia: Hurry up…
Angel: What about Bean and DD?
Jester: Let’s split up and find them while we draw the thugs and monsters out?
Reiz: I’ll find Bean, Angel you find DD, and I think he’ll need some healing. Jester, Elodia, you two does as we planned. Okay?
All: Okay!

And with that, all 4 of them go to separate ways, with the same mission to hail all the foes out of Sirroth.

_____________________________________________________________

Angel runs as fast as she could, at the same time drawing attention from their enemies and looking out for sign of DD.

Angel: Shoot! This is getting bad… *WHISTLES*

*From the sky, Femara comes flying at great speed towards Angel, who had called for her help. She flies low, nearing the grounds to enable Angel to climb onto her without her needing to land. Angel climbs onboard Femara and directed her to flies towards Sirroth’s exit, while she continues scouting for DD*

Scouting was much easier if you are doing it on a flying dragon. With Femara’s great flying and dodging skills, Angel has no problem dealing with the approaching foes, as they are all earth-walkers.

Angel caught sight off DD in one of the streets.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

DD was eyeing the knights as they charged, but then...

Reaper: Oh shit!! Evade evade!!!

DD moved out of the way, as a ball of light suddenly emerged from behind the knights and destroyed the city walls...

DD: They can use magic??
Ariel: This is a regiment of the highest order of the Knights... Both magic-user and melee attackers

Then arrows of Light began to fly through the city, exploding when came in contact...

Reaper: And goddamn good archers too...
DD: GREAT!!! ARGHHH!!!! *Evades another shower of arrows* I’ll be dead soon!
Reaper: Need my help? *grin*

Suddenly, a loud BANG! erupted from DD’s back. He turn around to see all the Dark Knights on their knees, fighting to free themselves from a binding light-shape rope. DD looks around to find the source of the spell and notice Angel and Femara just on top of him.

Femara flies low next to DD.


Angel: Climb up!! Hurry!!
DD: *Oh great, just as much as I “love” flying* okay….
Reaper: HA! What a nice timing, a great dragon pet she has. I wonder what else she has.
DD: [speaking in his mind]  would you quit paying so much attention to her?
Reaper: What? Jealous?  
DD:  …
Ariel: hahahhahhaa….
Angel: Are you alright?
DD: Yes, where are we going?
Angel: Hailing the foes out of Sirroth, Reiz is going to cast Hell’s Gate again, but the destruction is too great for a second time in Sirroth, so we are doing it outside of the city.
DD: Hell’s Gate? That was Reiz? O_________O
Reaper: So, it was him… hemmmmmm
Ariel: Doesn’t that make him your great great grandchild or something like that?
Reaper: Yes… *continues thinking*

More and more foes are approaching them. Femara is good enough to flies low enough for the foes to give chase but also out of their reach. Spells were shot towards them occasionally, but Angel cast a Holy Shield repeatedly to protect all of them.

@The first impact was, to put in short, earth shaking, as both Infernals collided and exchanged blows. Both riders were nowhere to be seen, as Reiz noticed as he was approaching the battlegrounds. However he felt magic was heavy around it, he felt two spells at work, both of them Dark, but one of it was so evil, Reiz couldn’t believe it if it belonged to no person of this world, Reiz searched and searched, until finally he came up to the town square, where he saw the people was held captive inside a dome, and a demon atop of it, watching, almost as he was keeping guard... The demon noticed him and drew his sword, and before Reiz tried to evade it, a snakelike aura had held him. Tried all his might, he couldn’t break loose from it. The aura then brought him closer to the demon, which prepared to strike at him. But then the demon sheathed his sword, and Reiz was brought down to in front of the demon. When he was released, he tried to summon his power, but it was smothered by something else...

: No use, Shadow Warlock... I may have released you, but not your power...
Reiz: How do you know me?? Who are you??
Lissath: I am Lissath, a Demon Lord, now what brings you here??
Reiz: Why must I conferred with a demon like you!!
Lissath: *sigh* If Bean wasn’t telling me who was his companions were, you would be dead by now...
Reiz: You... knew Bean??
Lissath: Of course... I had been waiting for him actually, although he is not yet "it", his performance had earned my respect... also the performances of his companions...
Reiz: Why?? Why did Bean sided with strange beings?? First, it was the Conjurer, than a demon lord?!!
Lissath: Hehe... He didn’t have a choice now did he??
Reiz: Damn!! Where is Bean?!! I need to tell him something
Lissath: He has his own battle to do... No one will interfere in it, including you, your friends, even me... What is it that you need to tell him?
Reiz: As if I would tell a demon!!
Lissath: *chuckles* If you are a friend of him, he would say to tell me whatever your plan is... You trust him, didn’t you?
Reiz: No, I didn’t trust him!! Not now, when I learned when he sided with a demon!!
Lissath: But the Priestess, she had faith in him...
Reiz: *troubled* Well yeah, but once she heard of this...
Lissath: "Fight Darkness with Darkness, Light with Light"... those were the orders that he received, and since I allied with him...
Reiz: Since when?!!
Lissath: Since the decree to have a Light Mage and a Dark Sorcerer within the realms of mortal was passed by both Heaven and Hell!!
Reiz: So you're saying... You are an ally...
Lissath: Yes I am, and I sense you don’t have much time... Now tell me!!

Reiz felt as he had no choice and told Lissath about his plans, to bring out all the minions and thugs outside the city, where he could cast Hell's Gate. Lissath eyes grew bright at the sound of Hell's Gate, as if he was delighted with something. After that, Lissath didn’t speak for a while, as if he was concentrating on something

Lissath: No, he is unreachable, he is somewhere nears the two Infernals, but there was too much magic there...
Reiz: So what do we do?
Lissath: We will continue as you planned... It is a sound plan, actually...
Reiz: But what about him? And the Infernal???
Lissath: No minions dared to enter their battlefield, except if they are bored with their pitiful lives... Don’t worry, Bean cared about this city, this *points at the dome below, with the citizens inside* is the prove of it. Another King's City will not happen here. But no one, and I said, NO ONE, is allowed in this battle of his. Now, let's discuss how we will get their attention...

***

Gibb: It is a good thing that they bind them together, now for my final spell is going to be very effective... *draws in the power, preparing the spell* Book of Space - Null!!

It was the same spell, apparently the ones that he thought will be the most effective, but some of it is different, as the range of affect is much larger than normal. Apparently Gibb exerted his powers to the max, as he collapsed as soon after the spell is finished.

Angel: Get him out of here, you too Devanna!! This place will soon be destroyed!!

Devanna nodded and the falcon flew away from the place, it itself exhausted to the max. After it had found a spot it deemed safe, it landed down. And Devanna quickly tended to the collapsed Gibb. She discovered that Gibb had left with nearly nothing in his power, the only strength he has now was to draw his breath and keep his heart beating... Then she felt a rush of power, a holy power near her...

: My oh my, it will be very bad if I had been there...

Devanna spun, and there stood the old man, still in his knight armor...

: But your actions are foolish, girl. Alone, without any defenses whatsoever... Just like Karthok did when you went away...

Devanna eyes flashed at these words

Devanna: Who are you??? What did you do to my father
: My name is Jorah, and I am an angel. And Karthok is not your father, actually. So you wouldn’t care what happen to him now, would you??
Devanna: What did you do to my father?!!
Jorah: We found him, and killed him... What we want is the White Staff though, although we are thankful that he didn’t have it with him... It makes the job much much easier
Devanna: You... YOU!!!
Jorah: Give it up, now... Give us the staff, and we will let him live, you not though
Devanna: YOU... DEVIL!!!!

And with that, something inside of her snapped...

***

Bean had to take a rest...

Necrid is too powerful for him. Although he had all the spells, and maybe the power, Necrid still is too powerful. He had spells that he had never heard of before. And it seems that he had inexhaustible power, he himself is almost depleted, his Infernal too is losing the battle, as if they were both connected...

Bean had to take a rest, and recollect his thoughts, refocusing his spells...

Maybe, he thought, I have to unleash True Darkness... But he doubted it will be enough. He had tasted Necrid's power before, but this... it seems he had unleash it all... And then, he always bring the Black Staff around... Although it was cloaked, the pressure from it is still immense. But then he remembered, the Black Staff will try to possess whoever that wields him other than those who are truly meant to wield... Perhaps Necrid is focusing some of his power on this too... Maybe, just maybe, this is the small slack he needed...

Bean must have time to think, and unfortunately time wasn’t on his side...

Because Necrid had found him...

Necrid: Dark - Cerberus' Claws!!

Bean tried to evade it but too late, invisible claws slashed him, and sent him flying through the houses. Blood flew all over the place... But Necrid wasn’t finished...

Necrid: Hell Fire - Fire Storm!

Bean erected the most powerful barrier he could mustered at the last moment, but Hell Fire was too powerful... Although he still managed to stop it, he was still thrown backwards by the impact, and his cloak was in tatters now. And Necrid come still...

Necrid: Mind Crush!!

The same pain, all over again, but this time it is the most powerful that he had ever received... How many times had his mind been crushed?? But this, he wasted some more of his precious powers to block it, and he was almost unconscious... He didn’t have enough strength to go into Unholy Rage, next strike and it will be all over...

Necrid was upon him, looking at him with merciless eyes, he had never seen Necrid so serious like this, looks like he had him so pissed off to be like this... Necrid grasped him by the scruffs of his neck... Bean peeked and saw his Infernal, defeated, now no more than a pile of rubble. Necrid's voice made him turned back to him...

Necrid: A mere human, trying to pit his powers against a Demon Lord like me?? Worthless scum...

The Black Staff now shone with black light... Blinding him, left him in the total darkness... Bean welcomed this, he felt, he could never atone for his sin... for killing Devanna. He had lived in the Dark, tried to run away, and now he will die in the Dark...

Necrid: DIE, FOOL, DIE IN AGONY!!!

Bean felt some kind of clothed wood pierced his stomach and went through his back, and stayed there, he thought someone cried, "NOOO!!!"

***

Devanna fell to the ground slowly, she doesn’t have the spells nor the powers to defeat this old man. 2 spells, first to destroy her Protect Sphere, second to hit her while she was vulnerable... A third was needed to kill the falcon... She still holds fast the cloaked Staff, though the cloaked was coming loose... Jorah just smiled, and went to her to finish the job...

***

Reiz and Lissath worked together to lure the minions to the appointed location, using an ancient demon technique when Lissath felt a tugging at his heart... He wondered what is happening, but now he needed all his concentration for the skill, as one wrong move, could summon otherwise...

@@Xs is seen running away from a mob of demons, dodging blows, and weaving through one demon after another, doing his very best avoiding getting hit. Then he noticed something flying towards him.

Xs: [dodges a claw] huh...? What’s that...?

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

DD: angel!! Over there, I see a horde of demon, rope them in. heh... I always wanted to say that.
Reaper: ...
angel: huh...? I see someone down there, hang on. I am going to get him.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Xs dodges a few more demons and manages to run through a small opening between 4 demons and runs towards the flying object waving his hands frantically, with a horde of demons behind him. After running further, Xs notices it’s actually a dragon flying towards him, with a huge horde of demons following close from behind. he hesitated in trying to catch its attention, but then he noticed that the demons were trying to attack the dragon and concluded it’s an ally and continue waving at the dragon.


angel : DD, grab him when Femara flies close enough.
DD : what..?! you wan me to grab him? I might fall you know.
angel : JUST DO IT!!
DD : ok ok
reaper : damn...she's bossy.
DD : shaddap


Femara flies low towards Xs and DD extends his hands to grab Xs while in midair. Xs saw that there's someone riding on the dragon and has his hands extended to grabs him. As Femara flies closer to Xs, DD is ready to grab him, at the last moment, a spell shot right at Femara, with angel concentrating on DD trying grab Xs, it was too late for her to cast holy shield. Femara dodges the spell and DD totally missed Xs's hand.

DD : OMG!! I missed him!!

With quick reflexes, Xs jumped up and manages to grab hold of Femara's tail. Femara starts to lose her balance and sways from left to right.

Angel : calm down Femara, clam down!!
DD : we're going to crash, we're going to die!!
reaper : calm down fool!!
Angel : [ looks to her back and see Xs clinging on to Femara's tail] That idiot!!!

angels signals Femara to fly down and land some place. Femara, still agitated, and lost all sense of balance, manages to land some distance away from the hordes of on rushing demons. Feeling land on his feet, Xs lets go of Femara’s tail.

Angel : You idiot!!! Don’t you ever do that again, you could've killed us all you.
: err...?!
DD : I though my heart stopped for a moment there.
reaper : rest assured it didn’t
DD : I was just a saying.
Reaper : saying...?
DD : nevermind. I would love to stay here and give him a piece of my mind as well but those things are getting closer.
Angel : ok, get on. We got to keep to the plan.

All three gets on Femara and they continued luring the demons out of town.

Reaper : odd....
DD : everything’s odd to you
Reaper : him, he is...
DD : one lucky guy. btw, what’s your name?
Xs : you can just call me Xs.
DD : Xs? that’s an odd name.
Xs : it’s the first alphabet of my names.
DD : oooh......I am DD, she's angel, a priestess and the dragon is Femara
Xs : nice to meet you.
Angel : lets leave the formalities to later. we got demons to destroy.

@ Reiz and Lissath headed to the outskirt of Sirroth, hoping to meet some demon on the way put, but found none.

Reiz: Weird, where did the entire demon go?
Lissath: Maybe your other comrades’ takes core of them?
Reiz: … maybe…

They both continues heading to their planned destination. To their surprised, it is filled with demons, which seems to be busy chasing something. Reiz then notices Femara’s flying low, just on top of the demons…

Lissath: Looks like a very capable ally you have over there.
Reiz: Allies you mean, they are mounting Femara if I not mistaken.
Lissath: Ah ha! So to who does the dragon belongs to?
Reiz: Angel. Let’s get going we haven’t got enough time for leisure.
Lissath: Tut, tut! Very serious huh?
Reiz: …

Reiz waved to Angel, trying to catch her attention, but she was too preoccupied with the demons to notice him. Reiz then took out his harmonica and plays a melody with it. Soon enough, Femara flies straight towards him, with Angel waving at him.

Angel: Hey! Took you long enough!
Reiz: Sorry, there’s some … interruption going on… *looks at Lissath*
Angel: Who is that?
Lissath: I am Lissath, a Demon Lord.
Angel: Demon Lord?  Since when did you mix with demons?
Reiz: I did not, mind you. He was Bean’s ally, or so he said…
Lissath: I am Bean’s ally, it’s up to you whether you would like to believe me or not, I see no importance of explaining myself to anyone of you.
DD: What is that suppose to mean?
Lissath: It means none of you plays a significances role in my life, simple as that.
DD:  WHAT?!!
Angel: Leave it! This is no time for argument! Reiz, are you ready to cast the spell?
Reiz: Yes, bring me on Femara please. I need to make sure of the area affected.
Angel: Okay, the rest stay here.
Xs: Huh? What is going on?
Reaper: I hope he remembers we are his allies… else we’ll both dies… no, we three…
DD: Huh?
Reaper: The Demon Lord you slowpoke!
DD: HEY!
Angel and Reiz mounted Femara and flew up the air, circling the area a few times. Then, without any warning, a spell inscription fills the ground and the Hell’s Gate opens in front of their eyes, sucking in with it all demons and shadow creatures, burning the ground with immense Hell’s Fire along. Lissath drew a protection spell for himself, DD and Xs, securing them from the raging fire.

DD: … thanks…
Xs: WHOA!!! That was him? O_________________O
Lissath: SILENCE!

Soon, all the demons and shadow creatures together with the gate disappeared from their sight. But the fire continues burning…, which is not supposed to happen, as the fire dismissed together with the gate. Femara flew down approaching them in a fast speed, missing them by a few inches. The three of them dodges just in time.

Lissath: Now, is that necessary?

Femara flew down again, this time stopping beside them nicely.

Reiz: Climb ups all, emmm… over-powered attempt, the fire will be burning still… sorry…
Lissath: … Why is this happening?
Reiz: Look, I just learned this spell three months ago…
Angel: Hurry up!

Lissath: No need. My task here is completed. I shall return to where I am needed.
Angel: As you like. DD and Xs, you two, hurry up!
Reiz: err... who are you? *Points at Xs*
Angel: Oh! Him? I saved him just now.
Reiz: ... What's your name? *Weird... I cannot sense him at all*
Xs: Xensavierre Shawn Denied, just call me Xs, I hate that blardy name.
Reiz: Xs huh? Okay...
Angel: Hurry up!
DD: *gulp* err… okay…
Xs: Sure sure!
Reaper: Wait!
DD: Huh? Why?
Reaper: That Demon Lord, he is not affected at all by the Hell’s Gate.
DD: So are you. Come on, we are allies.
Reaper: I do feel the impact, though it is mild. But he doesn’t feel it at all. Is he materialized or just a soul?
DD: How am I supposed to know?
Reaper: Prod him a little, see if you can feels him.
DD: … you are out of your head? He’ll kill me!
Reaper: He won’t. just do as I said.
DD pokes Lissath a few times as ordered by Reaper, at the same time praying hard that Lissath won’t kill him. Everyone is dumb-founded by DD’s action.

Lissath: …
DD: …
DD: Yes, I can feel him.
Reaper: Hemm… weird… ah well, nevermind.
DD: …

Lissath was staring at DD, wondering why he pokes him. Not knowing how to react, DD just smile, and quickly climbed onto Femara, followed by Xs.

Lissath: … *feels weird but doesn’t know what to say* *Teleported away*
Angel:   ARE YOU OFF YOUR ROOKER??? POKING A DEMON LORD LIKE THAT!
Reiz:  Yeah, what were you thinking?
Xs:  WOW! You are so brave, I respect your courage!!
Angel:    *SMACK Xs* There is NOTHING to be proud of! He could have killed himself! Don’t you go encouraging him like that!
Xs: OUCH!!! TT.TT  

Femara flies towards a nearby mountain, leaving behind the burning ground of Sirroth’s outskirt.

Reiz: Looks like I really overdo it…
Angel: … well, it …
DD:  YOU TURN IT INTO A DESERT!!!
Reiz: … I am sorry, okay…
Angel: … let’s hope the villager won’t kill you…
Reiz: Kill me? Hey, I just got rid of the demons for them!!
Angel: And their crops too…
Reiz: … well, accident happens…
Xs: HEY! That’s nice! I’ve always wanted to visit the desert!
All: …
Xs: What?
All: …

@Reach for us!!
No, I cant... /Dammit can’t see a thing...
This is it... Reach for us!!
I... I cant.../Let me rest...
with all your last strength, TOUCH US!!!

****

Necrid smiled... Finally the bug that had been bugging him would be destroyed. This he thought about as he plunged the Dark Staff into Bean's gut, piercing through him, and twisted it for some extra measure. He smiled, but then...

: NOO!!!
Necrid: Master, what..?
: Pull it out!! Pull it out before he grasps it!!

Necrid suddenly realized what he had done and tried to pull it out, but to no avail... and slowly, with his last strength, Bean's hand was up to reach the Staff...

****

: Jorah! KILL HER NOW!!!

Upon hearing this command, Jorah quickly drew his sword, blessed it with holy power, and went for the kill... But as he prepared to strike Devanna however, he saw her hand already clasped around the Light Staff...

****

Lissath was heading back to the dome at the town square to continue doing what Bean had commanded him to do, when he felt a calm surge of power, both Light and Dark... from two ends of Sirroth...

Lissath: *chuckled* Looks like both of them made it all right... This is interesting, the true descendants of Arakan and Hizbal wield the Staff at the same time...

****

: MUST I DO EVERYTHING MYSELF?!!

Necrid's master was furious as he sensed the calm surge of power, meaning that both Bean and Devanna managed to get their hands on the Staffs. His plan to eliminate one Staff and or control the other have not been successful... He had no choice but to destroy them both now. He doubted that both Necrid and Jorah could do the job, and they both are important to his plans...

: Necrid, Jorah! Meet me at the outskirts, where the fire burns!!

****

When Necrid released him, Bean was still grasping the Staff, feeling the ecstasy of its power... The Black Staff, known as an amplifier of power, increases his power by many folds. Before Necrid vanished, his last sight was Bean slowly pulling out the Staff...


Bean pulled the Black Staff slowly from his stomach, reopening the wound, but it was quickly patched by the black aura, preventing him to lose more blood... But he knew that this would not be permanent. He needs to finish this quickly and get some proper treatment. He whispered the words, and entered Unholy Rage... Then he went for something that he felt he should have done at the start of the battle, but was thankful he had not, since it would gave him this chance...

Bean: Unleash - True Darkness...

He scanned the area, found Necrid's source of power, and quickly went after him... not before he issued a command with his mind

Bean: Lissath, to me!!


****

Devanna closed her eyes, enjoying the new power she had felt... It had a cool, soothing feeling to it, as its power slowly enveloped her, healing her wounds, restoring her own power. When she opened her eyes, the old angel Jorah was nowhere to be found... She found Gibb though, and quickly healed him, giving him some of her power to replace what is lost...

Gibb: Huh, what? What happened..?

Devanna just smiled, didn’t answer his question... Then closed her eyes again, as if she was listening to some invisible instructions... Then...

Devanna: Unleash - True Light...

The power was overwhelming for her, she took care not to let herself to be pulled in too deep as it has cautioned... She let it flow through her, feeling the power, and blocking the ones that she didn’t need... Too much, and she would be too... holy... and Heavens would not have mercy on the souls who tasted True Light and lost himself in it... Then she scanned the area, found Jorah, and went to pursuit him... Before she went though she whispered something, particularly to nobody...

Devanna: Will you be with me?

Gibb: Hey wait... Dammit... Is that a True Element?? I thought she was a weak little girl... Oh well better go and get them...

***

Necrid and Jorah both met at one point, and wordlessly ran towards the outskirts. There their master awaits them, in the middle of the fire...

: Enter, ythese will not harm you... You will be punished later for your foolishness
Necrid/Jorah: Forgive us, master...
: Silence!! Quickly and get behind me... I greet both of you, Dark Sorceror, Light Mage...

There they went to the middle of the fire, and when they turned they saw both Bean and Devanna, standing on each end of the destroyed wall. Behind Bean stood a Demon Lord with a black sword, behind Devanna stood no one, but they felt a holy presence behind her...

: We have never met before didn’t we? Let me introduce myself... My name is Gibbarouth...

The Demon Lord hissed at the sound of this name, Devanna faltered a bit, but she has support from some unknown force, and stood upright. Bean, obviously not recognizing this name, merely stood there, and watching the group in the fire, particularly at Necrid...

Gibbarouth: Hmm, it seems my plan was wrecked... but I have no other choice then, but to kill you!!
Bean: Try if you can, you bastard!!!
Gibbarouth: Poor Bean, always didn’t know what you are up to, did you? Did you know who I am?!!
Bean: No, and I don’t intend to find out!!!

Before Bean could leap and attack, a strong hand gripped him from behind, Bean turned to see Lissath holding him back...

Lissath: No, Bean... You will die if you face him now...
Bean: Let me go, Lissath!!! Let me go kill him!!
Lissath: No, you fool!! Obviously you didn’t know who Gibbarouth is... The only man going to die if you fight him now, is you!! Look at Devanna, even she holding back her anger and revenge, for she knows what she is facing now...
Bean: I don’t give a damn!! Let me go, Necrid!! That is an order!!
Lissath: Which I can choose to follow or not, Dark Sorceror!! We need to use our brains here, not brawn or raw power!! This is Gibbarouth we are fighting against!!
Bean: Shit!!

During this conservation, Gibbarouth already prepares his spell. Necrid and Jorah were nowhere to be seen. But Devanna was interested in seeing the fire around Gibbarouth turning, around him, the clouds too are gathering... then

Devanna: Oh God... Bean!! He is going to cast Grand End!!
Bean: Huh, what?
Lissath: *eyes hardening* Damn... We need to get out of here
Gibbarouth: This is my power, Bean... Notice it well!!! Grand End!! *vanishes*

Bean had seen Grand Ends before, but this was by far the worst... The magnitude of the sign, the sheer power within it.

Lissath suddenly grabbed him, and shouted some instructions

Lissath: Both of you!! Seal back your powers, we need to get out of here!!

Devanna obeyed and prepare to leave, but Bean...

Bean: No, the city... We must save this city!!!
Lissath: No time!! Nothing could save it, this city... Pull back your powers now! Or I will help you pull it!!!

The sign began to appeared, it covers not only the city but the surrounding of it too...

Gibb: Leave now, Bean... I will take care of this...
Bean: Old man...
Lissath: I can’t carry you when you have True Darkness unleashed Bean!! Pull it back!!!

Bean reluctantly seal his powers, the wound reopened, and stumbled. Lissath had his hand around him to support him, went to Devanna to carry her, and prepare to launch... Bean's vision started to darken, and the last thing he remembered was Gibb's voice...

Gibb: I will undo what my brother had done... Consider my debt repaid, Dark Sorceror!!!

****

Xs: Hey nice symbol!!
All: WHAT?!!
Xs: There, below us... pretty cool, wonder what it is for...
Angel: Oh no... Grand End...
Reiz: Look at the size of this thing...
DD: Will we make it?
Reaper: If this thing could fly a bit faster than the speed of light..., than yes!!

But as they saw it, the runes suddenly shrinking, as if been sucked by something. They whirled Femara around to see what was happening... They had also felt the rush of powers, but neglected it as they were too tired to investigate... but this... what they saw was unbelievable. The powers of Grand End was sucked in at the center where Reiz had cast Hell's Gate... Like a tornado of power... then suddenly the ground had been cleared of the inscriptions... No jar, no runes, no light... Everything is silence...

Xs: Hey what happen?? Where did the runes go??
All: ...
Xs: Ok shutting up now...

****

Gibb had done absorbing the powers of Grand End, now he needed to unleash it... But he wouldn’t do that...

Gibb: The time for me to rest has now come, my debt have been repaid ... I wish you well, Bean, Devanna...

And with that, Gibb exploded into nothingness...

@After departing with the others, while Jester and Elodia attracts the demons, suddenly, they found that they were all alone. It seems that all the Demon had followed a dragon moving out of town.
______________________________________________________________
Jester : What's this!!
Elodia : Some Symbols?
Jester : I feel the rushing of POWER!
Elodia : It's depleting.. something is.....
Together : Absorbing it....

They fumbled when they heard an explosion...
Jester : What is this feeling... I sense a strong aura... gone... totally.. a very familiar aura....
Elodia : Lets go to the others, I saw the dragon landed there... *points to a place*

They headed to the party members and saw all of them.

Jester : ....................
Elodia : Why, Jester?
Jester : The Moon in me tells me that, something happened. Something, really......... sad... happened.
ELodia : .......
@ Angel: … Who opens Grand End?
Reiz: How many is capable of that spell at the moment, have you any idea?
Angel: I am not very sure. It’s not a very rare spell, any wizard with a high level could have learn it if they wanted to.
Reiz: emmmm… That’s hard to guess then…
Angel: Could it be him… hemmmm… maybe… maybe not…
Xs: Hey! Look!! Down there! Aren’t that Lissath and … another guy!
DD: Lissath? Another guy?

All of them look down from Femara to search for the source of their curiosity. Down there, two figures were seen running away from the epicenter of the absorbed Grand End. It looks like the two were leaning or supporting against each another. Angel directed Femara to fly lower, approaching the two figures. While approaching, they saw Lissath, who is supporting Bean on one side. Lissath sensed their approach and signal for them. Femara fly low, right next to Lissath and Bean giving the rest a better look at them. Bean was seriously wounded on his stomach, in fact the wound is still bleeding profusely. He looks extremely grief, pale… like he is almost out of blood.

Angel dismounted Femara and headed straight for Bean. She quickly did a check on his wound and found that it was poisoned. Immediately, she performed a spell to detoxify the poison and then healed his wound. She was so fast, it looks as if she had only did one spell. Bean’s wound is completely healed in no time and by the look on his face, he was glad.

Bean: Thanks, Angel… I thought I’d be a goner.
Angel: It’s okay. That’s my duty as a Priestess. We should head back to the city. There are still civilians inside waiting for our secure signal. Shall we?
Reiz: Sure, just make sure they won’t butcher me after they see this…
Xs: I am hungry! Let’s get some food too!
DD: … is that all you can think about? In situation like this… you should be ashamed of yourself!
Reaper: This guy… I cannot sense him at all!
DD: What do you mean?
Reaper: It means I cannot feel his existence. It is either he is an entity or he is very strong…
DD: Him? Strong? You must me pulling my legs he looks weaker than me!
Reaper: Go pinch him a bit, see if you can feels him.
DD: WHAT? I am NOT doing it! I got enough screaming from them!
Reaper: He is not a Demon Lord, so they won’t give a damn about it. Go ahead and pinch him.
DD: …
Reaper: GET IT DONE WITH, YOU SLOWPOKE!!
DD: STOP calling me that!
Reaper: If you don’t want me to call you that, do as I said and make it fast!
DD: FINE!
DD walked towards Xs and pinch him hard on him face, making him screamed in pain.

Xs: OUCCCHHH!!! What did you do that for?
DD: For being a selfish bloke and asking for food when there is still much thing to do!
Xs: TT.TT

The rest were dumbfounded again… for DD has been acting weird twice today… it was unusual for a usually timid DD to act in that way, first poking a Demon Lord and now pinching Xs. They wondered if the impact of recent events is too much for him to bear with… could he be cracking up inside? Whatever they have in mind, they did not voice it out to him, instead they starts heading back to the city, as if nothing happens just now…

@ DD : Satisfied?  
Reaper : It will do. For now. Keep your eyes open. Who knows what's next on the menu.
DD grunted, then focused back on walking and left Reaper alone. Ariel, who has been silent for some time now, spoke out.
Ariel : So... what are we into?
Reaper : Your still here? I was wondering where were you, not stopping me nor DD from doing what he did.
Ariel : I thought you knew better so I let it be... A demon lord... What is a demon lord?
Reaper : You don't know what a demon lord is? Why didn't you ask when they revealed I was one?
Ariel : My mind was ... occupied.
Reaper : Can't blame you. Your only a watcher. Your task was to observe and report back to those above what you see on this land. They don't train watchers to confront enemies so I guess they left it out of your syllabus.
Ariel : ....
Reaper : Oh well... It's better to know. Who knows, it may be useful next time. *Starts explaining*

Somewhere else in a dark cavern, a group of people were talking in the dark. Complaining about the moist surrounding and the darkness, someone lit the place up.
???1 : Ah... That's better. Are you guys all right?
???3 : Apart from some mud and bugs... Yeah I'm fine. Where are we?
???2 : Apparently... A cavern somewhere near where we stood before Terra told me to warp us away. Hey Terra, what was that black "thing" back then?
Terra : Hell's Gate.
???3 : Isn't that...?
Terra : Yes. It's from a Shadow Child.
Everyone else : Reaper?! But wasn't he sealed back then?
Terra : It's either him or... Another Shadow Child has come to age.
???4 : *From somewhere else* Hey guys... what's this thing? *dusts away the dirt from 1 of the walls*
They gather close to the wall the 4th person was touching. Under the dirt, they could see some inscriptions on the smooth, granite vertical wall.
Terra : I'm not sure what this is but it looks like old symbol system we use in heaven... Dust the whole wall so I can see better.
???3 : Shh... Quiet...... I hear footsteps.
Terra : Quick, hide.
Hiding behind some stones in the cavern, a small group of 3 figures passed by. Stopping just in front of the stone wall, one moved his hand and the symbols moved in sync with his hand's movements. When he was done, the symbols glowed and the wall split into 2, opening like a door. They then proceeded inwards, with the doors closing behind them.
???3 : Who are they?
Terra : I saw Cayte. That means they're from heaven, just like the symbols suggested.
???2 : They're not carrying weapons, aren't they? What are they doing down here?
Terra : I... don't know... but I've got a hypothesis on what they are here for, since Cayte is with them, and they are all unarmed. With the reemergence of Reaper whom they thought they sealed decades ago, I guess that could mean 1 thing.
They then found their way out of the cavern, only to be chased by a guard posted outside the entrance. They split up and disappeared into the forest.

Keif was taking note of the situation back in Sirroth. With loads of destruction and bodies everywhere, he had his work cut out for him to report every single detail back to heaven. Only now had he realised how much work watchers had to do, gathering all data related to their field of control and summarizing it for him. Later on, he recieved orders to meet Cayte somewhere near the city.

Somewhere in heaven
A girl was throwing a tantrum, complaining about something that upset her.
Girl : First Matherauimme and now this! *someone else brought more files to be stacked on her desk and left silently to avoid being dragged into her outbursts* Don't they humans know how to follow the path I set for them! I'm gonna get those in charge of Sirroth for slacking on their jobs. *As she was writing something into a file, another stack of files were added to the already mountain high stack of files* That does it, I've had enough! It's the curtains for them all. *She prepares a guideline for her subordinates to follow and help process the stack of files*
: My my... sis, calm down... Your gonna condemn the whole city for something that wasn't their fault?
Girl : Why don't you try filling in my shoes?
: I've been following a group of humans that are not following the paths laid out by you... It's really an intresting watch.
Girl : Is that due to your interference or is it due to the "variables"?
: It's a bit of this... and that... It's coincidence...  

@ Darkness surrounded me. Or was it brightness? I couldn’t tell. To me, the place I had arrived in was the same; empty. It need not matter if it was dark or bright, the place was still a void. Is this my heart; a hollow shell that couldn’t decide its own image? Why am I even here?

Oh ya, to search for myself.

I floated blindly through the emptiness, searching for an anchor to fix myself to, only finding none. There was nothing here; not even a memory.

Memories?

What were them to me? A glimpse of the past? A reflection of my life? A place to retreat to? I have no idea, but a gut feeling was telling me that I’ll soon find out.

Now the emptiness had vanished, replaced by a scene that seemed nostalgic to me. Following up were emotions of sadness, anger, and pride. There I was, in a canopied garden littered with stone ruins that were millenniums old illuminated by the angular streams of sunlight that broke though the openings in the treetops. Among me were other children, all aged around 6 or younger. When I scanned through the crowds, I was surprised as a child appeared before me, walking right through me! Even more shocking was that the boy was me, only aged 6 and still bearing that innocent gaze in his eyes.

I knew instantly where I was; Karra Faurn, the Garden of Truth. To confirm this, I look at the objects my 6-year-old version was clutching in his small hands. There they were, two sharply oval jewels, polished to perfection, one in each hand; Iris’s. There was no name for the ceremony I was about to undergo so I had no idea of the damage it was about to do and how it will change my life forever.

The memory was recalling fast. The next thing I saw was my younger self kneeling on the floor of a room black as a new moon’s night surrounded by symbols that glow with a faint blue hue. I was in pain as my eyes were shut tight, my teeth gritting against themselves as I was subjected to another salvo of physiological attack. Even as I watched from a third person view, I was recalling the event in vivid color and detail. Every question, every image, every invitation was being remembered, all, including the answers. And one question came to haunt me now.

‘What is the source of your strength?’ the disemboweled voice asked.

My answer? ‘Duty’

And now, I don’t know if that was the correct answer.

That day, as I emerged from the ruins, I was acknowledged to be a keeper; young and in training, but still one. And as I learned later, there were no failures, only deaths. For keepers, our Iris stones became a focal point of both power and duty. If our souls were to lean to any side of the alignment, the other will retaliate, brutally and swiftly. Waiting outside for friends and rivals that never emerged cast conflicting emotions onto my younger self, and for once I was lost. Also among the waiting was Alysia, her younger version staring off into the distance, oblivious to everything around here. She was alone, her older twin sister consumed by the darkness of her soul when she treaded too much to the light. The ceremony was cruel, but it guaranteed that the final result will not fail in their eternal duty.

Again, I returned to the void, but this time it was different. There was a floor to walk on now, invisible but still there. It was a ground to begin the long process of finding myself. While before I would spiral into nothingness, now I had a place to fall to. It was still unseen, so I still had no idea where I was falling back to, but it was a start.

My eyelids opened to a blinding column of light that burned my eyes painfully. Day one had ended. The truth was still out of reach but now I was closer.