User blog:KitncatMCD/Fan Fiction: A Story (Chapters 1 - 34)

Chapter 1: Prologue: Jeffory's POV    I blinked, light flooded back into my  eyes. "Where am I?" I thought confused. Suddenly I remembered everything. "Zane if I get my hands on you!" I muttered to myself. I looked around for the first time, realizing I was in a clearing surrounded by forest. A woman with a flower in her hair stepped out of the forest and walked toward me. "Welcome," she said as she joined me. "Who are you?" I asked warily. "I am Lily. And you are in a place where people who were killed, or died, wrongly live on." she replied. I took her in, she had no scars. In fact she looked like a normal person. As if she had read my mind she said "My son, Jacob, was given a pendant. When my husband, Aaron, took it from him i-it killed everyone in my village, except Aaron." a single tear ran down her face. "What did the man who gave the pendant look like?" I asked curiously. She laughed a little and said "Why don't you find out." I was confused at this, but before I could ask I was in some other place. Lily stood next to me. "Where are we?" I asked. "In the past." she replied, "Look," she nodded to where I saw a man with black hair and dark brown eyes run out of a house. He seemed to stop looking at something out of my sight, I stepped forward until I, too, saw it. "Zane!" I yelled lunging forward at him. In the same moment it fell away and I found myself back in the clearing. "You know him?" Lily asked as I stopped myself. "Yes," I replied, "and I want him dead." Lily blinked at me. "Care to show me why?" while I didn't want to remember it I found myself somehow transporting us back. I stood their frozen in memory as I watched my own death. When it was over we were back in the clearing. "That's... so horrible." Lily whispered. I felt hatred and anger stirring with in me. "You know some of us are sent back." Lily said. "Sent Back?" I asked, confused. "Yes. Sent back." Lily said, "I'll explain, if you're sent back, you go back to the living." she explained. It was hard to understand but I figured it out, I nodded my head. Chapter 2: Laurance's POV    I climbed the ladder that led up to the wall of Phoenix Drop. I saw Aphmau sitting there, she was mumbling to herself though I didn't catch her words. "Aphmau?" I asked as I laid my hand on her shoulder. She turned to look at me and I saw where a tear had run down her face, "Laurance," she said, "I'm going to the portal. If you want to come you can, but you can't stop me." I wanted to stop her. "I can't." I thought to myself firmly. "Well you aren't going alone." I said. I heard Dante calling Aphmau and we both made our way down. "What is it, Dante?" Aphmau asked him not showing any sign of the irritation I could tell she felt. "Alexis and Kyle reported seeing a ship wrecked on the beach, and I was wondering if you would check it out." Dante replied. "Of course. Laurance," Aphmau turned to me, "go find Katelyn." I ran off to find Katelyn. She was down by the beach by Donna's  house. "Katelyn!" I called as I ran toward her. As I came to a stop she asked "What is it Laurance?" I replied "Aphmau wants you to go with her to check out a ship wreck." with that she followed me.

'''Sorry about this chapter being so short. '''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 3: Jeffory's POV <span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">"I've been here forever." I thought to myself. It had been a bit over 15 years since Zane had killed me for helping Aphmau. Now I sat wondering about Katelyn. Suddenly a white flash  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family: "TimesNewRoman";color:blue">appeared<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">, blinding me, when I blinked it was gone. I heard the voice of a woman in the near distance, though I couldn't make out her words. I looked around, I was on a beach with debris that looked like a shipwreck around me. Suddenly I realized what had happened, I had been sent back. I heard the woman's voice again, "Just over this hill." a voice that was faintly familiar replied, "Thanks Alexis. We'll take it from here." I recognized that voice, "Aphmau" the name flashed in my head. I sat up I heard Aphmau and whoever was with her coming over the hill. As they broke over the hill I saw three people. The person at the head of the three turned to the others, "Look for anyone that was shipwrecked." I realized it was Aphmau. "So Aphmau must still be lord of Phoenix Drop." I thought. As they came down the hill I saw the other two people, the first one I saw was a man around Aphmau's age with light blue eyes and light brown hair, as my gaze traveled to the other I saw Katelyn. "She made it away from Zane, good." I thought. I couldn't stay where I was any longer. I leaped up and ran towards her. I heard an astonished gasp from who I guessed was Aphmau. As I met Katelyn in a hug, she nearly fell over. As I stepped back I saw  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family: "TimesNewRoman";color:blue">tears<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;"> running down her face. "J-Jeffory?!?" she stammered, I only nodded. I heard Aphmau and the man walking over, "But how? I thought you were killed by Zane, like 15 years ago?" Aphmau asked from behind me. The way she said "15 years" made me confused, as if she had a problem saying the words. I turned to her, "Why do you say it like that?" I asked. "Because me, Laurance, Katelyn and a few others ended up in the Irene Dimension, and two of them are still there, including Zane." Aphmau explained, for being so kind there was so much bitterness in the way she said "Zane" it took me back by surprise. "In fact," Aphmau's male companion, who I guessed to be Laurance, said "it's all Zane's fault." I nodded. "Who's the other person?" I asked curiously. "Garroth" was Aphmau's only reply. I could tell by the look in her eyes that she had great regret and sorrow. "Let's get back and tell Levin, he's the lord now. And Jeffory, you are more than welcome to join my little group if you want." Aphmau said. I nodded and followed her. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 4: Aphmau's POV  <span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">I blinked my eyes open. "Today, me and Laurance are going to the Irene portal." I thought. I knew Katelyn was going to introduce Jeffory to everyone. I felt a tingle of  <span style="font-size:12.0pt;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif;mso-fareast-font-family: "TimesNewRoman";color:blue">happiness<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;"> as I remembered Katelyn's happiness. I heard Jeffory exclaim "You're the man I saw when..." his voice trailed off and I got up and walked over to where Katelyn, Jeffory and Aaron stood. I looked around the three of them "What's going on?" I asked Katelyn. "Don't ask me! I didn't know Jeffory knew Aaron." she replied. "We don't  know  each other really." Jeffory said "It's hard to explain." I walked away leaving them to figure it out. As I went down from the tree house I saw Laurance waiting for me. We wordlessly headed for the gate and walked in silence to the Irene portal. "Are you sure?" Laurance asked me. "I told you yesterday, I'm doing this." I replied. I walked forward and slipped into my angel form, I placed my hands on the portal. There was a white flash and when it had gone, I saw that the portal was open. I didn't wait for Laurance, I just ran through and thought "I'm coming Garroth." when I was through I saw two bodies one still and unmoving the other breathing but barely. I immediately ran towards Garroth's unconscious body and placed my hand on his arm, willing my powers to work. After a moment it happened not waiting to explain I grabbed his hand and ran through the portal. It closed just behind us, "Good riddance!" I muttered. Garroth turned to me the look on his face completely confused. Laurance let out a small laugh. "Come on, I'll explain everything once we're back in Phoenix Drop, and Garroth, it's changed  a lot. " I said leading the way towards Phoenix Drop. As I lead the way into Phoenix Drop, Levin came over, "Hey Mom," He paused upon seeing Garroth, "who's that?" he asked. I laughed slightly before replying, "Levin, this is Garroth." I said. Levin and Garroth seemed to look at each other for minutes before Garroth broke the silence "I remember when you were but a baby." Levin seemed to be in a awkward stance. "He doesn't remember Garroth that much." I reminded myself. I saw Zoey walk around the corner a moment before she spotted me and a single thought crossed my mind "Uh-oh". Zoey walked over seeming calm and started to lecture me, though I hardly took any notice, I was just happy to have Garroth home safe and sound. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 5: Zoey's POV  <span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:4.8pt0in6pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">As I walked around the corner I saw Aphmau, Laurance, Garroth and Levin standing just inside the gates. I felt irritated that Aphmau hadn't listened to me and Emmalyn when we were telling her about the risks of messing with the realm barrier. I walked over trying to appear calm but I could tell Aphmau and Laurance knew what was coming. "Are you trying to kill yourself?!" I asked, though I didn't give Aphmau a chance to answer, "Messing with the realm barrier is dangerous. You could get killed! In fact, if you don't remember, you nearly did!" I began, while Garroth stood in silence, obviously confused, "It takes immortality to open the realm barrier! And you just give it up like it's nothing!?" this time I paused to allow her to answer. "I didn't! I used my powers." was Aphmau's only reply. "So you think it's okay if you just kill yourself trying?!" I snapped, then realized that she wasn't even paying attention. "Oh, whatever." I thought before turning to Laurance. "How could you let Aphmau put herself in that much danger!?!" I asked him feeling my irritation explode. "You think I could stop Aphmau?" Laurance asked me. "You're her guard, it's your job to protect her!" I snapped back at him. "Leave Laurance out of it!" Aphmau told me, "It was my idea, and Laurance couldn't have stopped me if he tried." she informed me. I let out an exasperated sigh and walked away before we all got mad.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">-

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">It had been a couple of days since Aphmau had risked her life tampering with the Irene portal. "We haven't even spoken since I yelled at her at the gates." I thought sadly. I heard footsteps and turned to see Garroth. "Hey Garroth." I said flatly, though I was happy that he was home. "Hey Zoey," Garroth began, "I noticed that you and Aphmau haven't spoken since you and her argued at the gates. She won't tell me what you meant when you said that she nearly got killed, and I was wondering if you would tell me." as much as I didn't want to I was going to anyway. "When she first found out she had powers," I began, "she tried to open the portal. When she did the realm barrier didn't open, in fact it instead let out it's own magic, and if it wasn't for Laurance being with her, she would have died." Garroth didn't seem to know what to think at this and changed the subject, "Are you going to keep avoiding Aphmau and hope that the tension from the fight just vanishes?" he asked. "I don't know Garroth, it's hard to even face her. She seems so happy to have you back, she doesn't even seem like she cares that she could've died." I replied. "You should at least try to talk to her, she doesn't like the fight any more than you, and the sooner it's in the past, the sooner we can focus on the present." Garroth said. "I'll go talk to her in a bit. Thank you, Garroth." I said. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 6: Katelyn's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:4.8pt0in6pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">I heard someone coming up the tree house and looked up, Jeffory and I had been talking but he went for a walk with Garroth, "It's good to have him back, but I can't stand the tension between Aphmau and Zoey." I thought. As if my thought had summoned her, she climbed up the ladder. I saw Aphmau immediately tense and I could feel the tension between them, "It feels like they can't even be in the same room." I thought, feeling miserable that I could do nothing, "It's just like with Jeffory, 15 years ago." I thought. "Aphmau," Zoey said gently, walking towards Aphmau, "I'm sorry about yelling at you." Zoey sounded honest and I could tell she didn't like the tension either. Aphmau let out a sigh, which seemed to be full of relief, before replying, "It's okay Zoey. I was being kinda foolish." Aphmau said. "No, Aphmau. I shouldn't have exploded like that, and I should have let you get settled down before I tried to lecture you." Zoey said. I laughed under my breath. "Are these two really going to argue over who should have done what and who's fault it is?" I thought, then I heard laughing from Zoey and Aphmau. I let out a sigh of relief, "Their finally over it." I thought raising my gaze back to where Aphmau and Zoey were standing. "I'm going to go check the barrier for Michi and Sasha." Zoey said. "Okay Zoey. I'll see you later." Aphmau replied. Zoey walked out of the tree house leaving me and Aphmau alone. "It's good to see you and Zoey made up." I said as I walked over. Aphmau only nodded, though I noticed she was smiling. "I'm gonna go see if Garroth and Jeffory are back yet." Aphmau said. "I'll come with you." I said, thinking of Jeffory and his compassion, "Now that I think about it, Jeffory and Aphmau have a few things alike." I thought nearly laughing. I let Aphmau lead the way down and as she lead the way towards the plaza and the gates, we saw Levin and Malachi talking. "Hey Mom!" Malachi called to Aphmau, she waved back in reply to her adopted son's greeting. Garroth and Jeffory were just making their way back. We walked over to each other and welcomed each other warmly. "How did your walk go?" I asked Jeffory as Aphmau and Garroth wandered off. "Fine" he replied, "What have you been doing?" I was unprepared for the question and took a moment to reply, "Nothing really, other than watching Aphmau and Zoey forgive each other." "That's good. We can all be more relaxed without all that tension between them." Jeffory commented. "Hay!" I said, my voice gentle, "That was what I was thinking!" I said. "Do you want to go on a walk with me?" he asked, taking me by surprise. "Yes." I replied, how could I say no. "Let me just go grab something," he said walking towards the tree house. "I'll be right here!" I called after him. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 7: Garroth's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">As me and Aphmau walked side by side I nearly missed her question as I pondered in my own thoughts. "So, Garroth, how did your walk go?" snapped out of my thoughts I replied, "Good, nothing was really going on." I replied, though we had talked a bit and gotten to know each other. Just then Rollo and Lello came running by us nearly making us trip over them, I realized that we had walked down to the beach by Donna's house. "It's so nice to have you home." Aphmau said and I could hear peace in her tone. "I'm just glad that everyone made it back." I replied even though I knew it was a lie because I had killed Zane. Aphmau seemed to take no notice that I had left him out. "Are you two just going to sit out there muttering under your breaths at one another?" I heard Laurance's teasing tone and Aphmau laughed beside me. "Keep talking like that and we'll see who has the last laugh!" Aphmau called to him both of us had turned to him now, "What is she planning?" I thought to myself. Aphmau moved to his side opposite the ocean and Laurance flashed me a confused look, though I just shrugged. At almost the same moment she leaped playfully at him and knocked him into the shallow water and we both laughed, as Laurance got out he began laughing to. I felt happiness flow through me, even though Aphmau had told me of the King of the Tu'la Region. "It's good to see we can still laugh and smile." I thought. Laurance was climbing out of the ocean now and I could see the glint of amusement in his eyes. "Good one! Now, I'm going to go dry off." he said before he turned and walked away. "Now that," Aphmau said, walking back over to me, "is how to pull a good joke." she was still smiling. "That was  pretty  funny!" I agreed, "But are you sure we didn't hurt his feelings?" I couldn't help fretting. "He was laughing to!" she said, in almost a matter-of-fact way. We walked away from the spot, heading towards the tree house. As we neared I saw Katelyn and Jeffory walking through the gates, Aphmau stopped and waited for them to join us and I noticed that both of them were smiling though I decided I'd ask about it in the morning. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 8: Aaron's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">Everyone had headed in for the night, but as usual I was just standing around lost in my memories as stars sparkled above the leafy roof of the tree house. I now pondered on Jeffory's first words when we met. "What did he mean?" I thought again, it was a thought that had crossed my mind every night and many times since three days ago when we had first met. I knew he knew something, something I never talk about. Aphmau knew some about my past and Jeffory seemed to know something as well. I sighed. I didn't understand him, he seemed to know things, things that no one else knew. I remembered now when Katelyn had walked away to give us some space to figure things out. "He spoke Lily's name, though he never finished the sentence." I thought. I looked up now and saw dawn's early colors. I let out a small laugh under my breath, "I used to always be up to see dawn break." I murmured to myself. Now, almost every other night I spent the night up, the others I slept but made sure to be back before the others awoke. As the sun broke the horizon, I heard someone getting up and turned to see Aphmau. "She's always an early riser." I thought. "Good morning, Aaron." she said as she walked up. "Up early, are you? Dawn has barely broke." I said in reply. "I couldn't sleep. I don't really know why." she said, the tone of her voice sounded confused and almost frustrated. Before I could reply, I heard running footsteps. Me and Aphmau both turned to see Alexis climb up the ladder. "What's going on Alexis?" Aphmau asked, I could tell easily that she was concerned. "Dmitri's gone missing!" Alexis exclaimed. '' "WHAT!?" ''Aphmau exclaimed, "How?!?" the concern was clear in her voice. "We don't know. He was there when Dante went to bed but was nowhere to be seen this morning!" Alexis was beginning to look panicked and slightly overwhelmed, knowing Aphmau would be better at the situation I stayed silent. "Calm down, Alexis. I'm sure that he's around, somewhere." Aphmau said, though to me it sounded like she was trying to assure herself just as much Alexis. "Will you help?" Alexis sounded almost like she was begging for her life instead of for help. "Of course we will." Aphmau nodded towards me and I knew what we were doing. "Are you sure it's a good idea to be running off on our own? Maybe we should wake Laurance." I said, not wanting to put either of us in too much danger. "We should go now. The longer we delay, the farther away Dmitri might get." Aphmau's voice was determined, I knew that tone, it was pretty much the tone she used to say that she was not about to wait around. I sighed, but followed without any more protests. Aphmau led us out of Phoenix Drop and towards where Michi and Sasha were kept. "Why are we going there?" I wondered, "I mean, would Dmitri really go  there  of all places?" despite my doubts I held my tongue. When we entered, I heard Sasha upstairs. "If Dmitri is or was here, Sasha will know." Aphmau said, there was confidence in her voice. I followed her and let her do the talking. "Hey Sasha," she greeted, sounding friendly, "has a kid named Dmitri been here?" she asked. Sasha thought for a moment then replied, "No, but I saw a dark blue haired little boy heading towards the outer wall." she said. "Okay, thanks Sasha." Aphmau said, as she turned to leave Sasha gave a nod of acknowledgment to Aphmau. As we left I asked, "So, where are we going now?" Aphmau sighed. "Sasha has our only lead. We'll head to the outer wall and see what we can find there." she said. I followed her to the outer wall, "Let's split up we can cover more ground that way. See if you can find anything that Dmitri might have left." she instructed me. I nodded, "It doesn't sound like a good idea, though." I thought but Aphmau had already walked away. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 9: Dmitri's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:4.8pt0in6pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">"Where are we going?" I asked the woman with the flower in her hair again. "It's okay." she soothed me, "you will be fine. And so will those you care about will also be safe." I felt irritated. I hated when people kept secrets. "If your tricking me.." I warned but somewhere I knew she was telling the truth. I sighed. The sun had risen now. She led me to a clearing, I knew it was far from the clearing Aphmau had talked of once. She stopped and turned to me. "This is the place." she said, "I'm Lily by the way." I felt calmer now, she hadn't said much other than that. "Why are you here? Where are you from? More importantly, what do you want with me?" I asked. "It is hard to explain many of those things. But I will tell you that I'm here to keep you and those you and I care about safe." she replied before turning and looking into the forest, "He said he'd meet me here." she murmured to herself. "Who said he'd be here?" I asked. Before she could reply a man with black hair that covered one eye slipped out of the forest. "I was beginning to think you wouldn't come." Lily said. The man snorted, "You know I'm not like I was when-" he broke off as he noticed me, "This is the boy? That's supposed to save Aphmau?" he asked disbelievingly. "Are you going to do what you said you'd do or do I need to improvise?" she asked him. Without a word she walked off, back towards Phoenix Drop. I turned my gaze and studied the man she'd left me with. The eye I could see was light blue and he had a black cross on his uniform.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">-

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">A rustle came from the bushes and Lily burst out. It was near midday now and I was glad she was back. I heard a disbelieving, out of breath call come from behind her, "Lily? Is that really you?" I almost immediately recognized the voice. It was Aaron! Aphmau followed shortly after. They were both out of breath but I noticed Aaron looked a lot more winded than Aphmau. As they looked up, breaths regained, a disbelieving look came through Aaron's eyes. Though in Aphmau's gaze I thought I saw hatred, "Dmitri get away from him!" she ordered, she had drawn her sword. I was so confused. Had Lily been lying that she wanted to keep some one safe? Lily's reassuring voice came from beside me, snapping me out of my thoughts. "Aphmau, sheath your blade. There is no need for bloodshed." Aphmau only glared at the man. "What's going on?" I asked, looking from Lily to Aphmau to the man. "You need to listen Aphmau." Lily said, Aphmau didn't move but turned her gaze to Lily, "A time is coming, when the past must be where your answers are, for the six will be again." as everyone fell silent Lily's words seemed to echo. "What do you mean?" Aphmau asked, all her attention gone from the man. "You trust your friends and when the time comes all will become clear." Lily turned to me, "Take care of your sister. Now it is time you returned." she looked longingly towards Aaron. "Lily, how are you here? I saw you..." Aaron broke off. "How do you think Zane is here? We are both nothing but spirits but when the time comes we will fight beside you." with that Lily and the man she called Zane began to fade until they were gone. "What did she mean?" Aphmau wondered aloud. "There were six Divine Warriors." Aaron said. "Let's just go back to Phoenix Drop." Aphmau said and began to make her way towards Pheonix Drop. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 10: Aphmau's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">I saw what looked like me, Laurance, Garroth, Katelyn, Jeffory and Aaron standing in what looked to be the first line of a battle. Behind us were what looked to be people from our alliance, Lily and Zane, as well as people I didn't recognize. "Where am I?" I asked myself. I looked back at the front line everyone that I had thought I saw was there. But how was I there? In the next moment the picture faded and when I blinked it was gone and I found myself in a clearing surrounded by forest. Lily was there. "What was that?" I asked, hoping she would know. "A vision... Of the future." she replied, "Remember how I said the six would be again, Irene?" I paused, had she just called me Irene? "Yes Aphmau, you and Irene are one. Some of your friends are also the Divine Warriors." she said. "How?" I asked. "That, is a mystery even to me." she replied, "Remember this, you are Irene, you and the other Divine Warriors defeated the Shadow Lord once. And now, you must save those you care about. You and the other Divine Warriors must finish what you started and take a new challenge." she said. "Are you-" before I could get my question out she was gone and so was the clearing. ''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">I found myself back in the tree house. I was in my bed. "Was that a dream?" I wondered. "No. It was a special dream, a vision." I forced myself to focus on what I'd seen and heard. Were me, Laurance, Garroth, Katelyn, Jeffory and Aaron the Divine Warriors? I shook my head. But a voice in my head, that I recognized as Lily's said, "You are right. I will make sure that they know who they are, maybe not which Divine Warrior like I did you Irene, but they must know." I looked around and realized the others were still sleeping and that it was just after midnight. I decided I'd sleep till morning. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 11: Laurance's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">I was standing beside what looked like a portal in a clearing, on the opposite side of the clearing stood what looked like a battered Aphmau. She was standing next to what appeared to be a closed Nether portal. "Irene! Come on! You’re the one who said we have to do this!" Aphmau turned, I noticed she was wearing a white gown instead of her usual clothing. Suddenly I realized I ached as if I'd been in a battle, the clearing we were in was huge and looked as if a battle had been fought. Aphmau charged toward us, "Let's go. I just hope we're making the right choice." she said. To my surprise I replied, "You know we are Irene." with that she stepped through the portal and when I blinked it was gone, and I found myself in a clearing surrounded by forest. I saw a woman with a flower in her hair standing there. "Hello Laurance." she said her tone friendly. "Who are you?" I asked. "I am Lily. A spirit that only wishes to help you remember who you are." she replied, before continuing, "You just saw the past. What was. The six are again, and you are one of them." Before I could say anything everything was gone, I heard a faint voice calling my name. ''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">I awoke to see Aphmau standing there, "Come with me." she said and headed away. I quickly got up and followed. She lead me down to where the docks of Phoenix Drop had stood 15 years ago. There Garroth, Katelyn, Jeffory and Aaron already stood. "Is something wrong Aphmau?" I asked when we'd stopped. "So, no strange dreams or anything?" she asked. "Define strange." Garroth replied. The other four exchanged a knowing glance with each other. "Visions" Aphmau said. At once Garroth, Aaron, Jeffory and Katelyn nodded. Katelyn looked at Jeffory, "Esmund," she said teasingly. "Menphia," he retorted. Garroth looked at me, "Shad," he said. Aphmau looked at him, "Enki," she said. I figured I should join in so I said, "Irene," I looked at Aphmau. My attention snapped to Aaron, he hadn't said a word. Katelyn looked at him, "Kul'zak," she said. He nodded. "Did anyone see the future?" Aphmau asked suddenly. We all shook our heads. Aphmau spoke, "A battle is coming, I don't know when and I don't know who we're against but a battle is coming." she spoke with terrifying confidence. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 12: Katelyn's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">I was in a vaguely familiar room. "Great. More visions." I thought, but let myself fall into the vision, that I guessed was a buried memory. I saw Garroth, Laurance, Jeffory, Aaron and Aphmau. "No," I corrected myself, "Right now I am remembering, right now I am Menphia, even though I'm always Menphia." I looked at the others and named them in my head, "Enki, Shad, Esmund, Kul'zak and Irene." Irene began to speak, "Another battle grows near. We can all tell." she said, she looked determined. "We're ready to fight beside you Irene. We've done it many times by now. Nothing unusual anymore." Shad said. Then I spoke, "Do we know when?" Irene shook her head, then raised it again. She spoke but the vision was blurring and fading so I couldn't hear, and when I blinked it was gone and I was in the familiar clearing surrounded by forest. There in front of me stood my mother, Vallana. "What did I just see?" I asked automatically. "The beginning of the battle before the battle." she replied. When I blinked she and the clearing were gone. ''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">"GAH!" I exclaimed as I awoke. "What's wrong?" Jeffory asked. "Everything!" I exclaimed, "Battle before the battle?! What does that mean?" I asked. "I don't know, but we'll find out." he replied. I felt my irritation ebbing, "We should tell the others." I said. Jeffory nodded I jumped as a voice said, "I'm right here." I recognized it as Aaron. I walked down the tree house and saw Aphmau, Laurance and Garroth walking in the front gate. I walked over and quickly told them what I'd seen. "Battle before the battle." Laurance mumbled, "The clearing! The clearing that looked like a battle had been fought!" he exclaimed suddenly. By now Jeffory and Aaron had joined us. Laurance told us the vision he'd had when we first found out that we were the Divine Warriors two days ago. "Do you think that was 'the battle' mentioned in Katelyn's vision or in the statement?" Aphmau asked. "If it's correlated at all, it's the one in the statement." Laurance replied. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 13: Garroth's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:4.8pt0in6pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">My head was reeling. What did it all mean? Battle before the battle? Was Laurance right in saying that he had seen where the battle in that statement was? I was yanked out of my thoughts by Aphmau, "Do you think we could find it?" there was hope in her question. "Maybe," Laurance replied, "But why would we want to go there?". Aphmau sighed, "Isn't it obvious? We might find answers." she said. Laurance closed his eyes and seemed to focus hard on something, "I know where to go." he said confidently.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">-

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">We'd been traveling for what felt like forever over wild, untamed territory. Laurance was in the lead, it was near noon. As he wove in between the trees we emerged in a clearing. Laurance stopped abruptly. "This is it." he said. To the right, on the edge of the clearing, half hidden by shadow, looked like a Nether portal. It was inactive and looked ancient. Katelyn stepped forward, "Are you sure?" she asked. Laurance nodded, "Once, over there," he nodded to a spot directly across the clearing from the Nether portal, "there was another portal." he said. "Let's set up a camp." Aphmau said. After we set up the camp it was getting dark. "Let's sleep and see what we can find tomorrow." Aphmau said. I nodded and headed for the spot where I would sleep. As I closed my eyes, sleep came quickly.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">There was the Nether portal and across from it another portal, both were active. The other Divine Warriors stood in a line on either side of me, we were in front of the strange portal. On my right was Menphia, on my left the others. Across from us stood what looked like a army. "Shadow Knights." I realized with a jolt of horror. At their head stood a single person, "That must be the Shadow Lord." I thought. With what seemed like and invisible signal, we and the Shadow Knights both began to charge forward, towards each other. It was viscous, it was a battle to the death. I noticed that the Shadow Lord wasn't fighting. When, somehow and to my surprise, all the Shadow Knights were dead and only the Shadow Lord was left. Shad began to walk toward, him sword drawn and ready for battle. Irene stepped in front of him, "He's mine." she lunged forward, taking him by surprise and pinning him down, "How could you?!" she cried, "How could you do this to so many people?! How could you do this to me?! I thought you loved me! I should kill you, right here and right now, for all you've done! But I can't!" she said, pain and anger clear in her voice. Suddenly a flash of white appeared and when it was gone, so was the Shadow Lord. Irene stood in the same place where she'd been, by the Nether portal. I noticed it was closed now. Menphia called something but it was blurring and fading. When I blinked, it was gone. ''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">It was dawn now. I was the first awake, apart from Aaron. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 14: Aaron's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">It was near dawn, I had stayed on watch all night. Suddenly Garroth jerked awake from where he was sleeping. He looked around. I walked over as he got up. "Is everything alright?" I asked. He was staring to where Aphmau and Katelyn's tent was, he was staring so intently that it seemed like he could see through it to what lay beyond. "Garroth?" I asked. He didn't move or speak. "Garroth!" I exclaimed. He turned his gaze to me, the only thing that I could see in his eyes was shock. "Are you okay?" I asked, feeling concerned. He didn't answer just turned his gaze to where Aphmau was making her way toward us. She seemed in shock but as her gaze met Garroth's fear immediately covered it up. "Are you okay, Garroth?" she asked running towards him. He looked as if he didn't know what to say in reply. "Garroth!?" she asked, starting to look as if she would panic at any moment. "Th - The b - battle." was all he stammered. Aphmau turned her gaze to me, a pleading and nearly panicked look in her eyes, "What happened? What's going on?" she asked. "I don't know. He woke up like this." I said, I wished I could reassure her that everything was going to be okay but I couldn't. "The final battle, the Shadow Lord, Irene." Garroth said. Aphmau gave him a puzzled look, though I could still tell she was concerned about him. Garroth began telling us  everything  he had seen in the vision last night. The shock returned to Aphmau's gaze as Garroth finished. "So I'm not the only one that knows." she said, her tone was part irritated and part distressed. "There was no way you would have,  could have,  known." he said. "Finish what we started." Aphmau said, it seemed like it was half to herself. "Huh?" I asked. "It means one of two things, we must defeat the Shadow Lord once and for all or something between me and him." she continued, not seeming to notice me. Suddenly I realized that Laurance had joined us. "It means that we must defeat him once and for all." he said. "How do you -" Aphmau started to ask him but he interrupted, "The same way we found out we were the Divine Warriors." he said, "Get the others up. We're going, now." his tone gave no room for questioning. Once every one was awake we gathered by the Nether portal. "Any ideas how to get in?" Aphmau asked Laurance. Laurance stepped forward. He took a deep breath, "No, but somewhere I  know  how." he said. With that he laid his hands on the Nether portal, after a moment there was a bright flash and it opened. "Let's go!" Aphmau said charging forward. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 15: Aphmau's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">As the Nether became clear around me the others appeared. "I'm back." I thought, old memories surged up. I could hear my own voice in my head, see the time I had been forced to leave Laurance behind. I felt a hand on my shoulder, "This time, we leave together." Laurance's voice said. I nodded and clutched my sword tighter. Leading the way towards the fortress, where I knew we'd find the Shadow Lord, I forced away the memories. "If I die," I thought, "at least the Shadow Lord can't hurt anyone anymore." determined I ran forward. Suddenly I realized that we weren't just a team, we  were  the Divine Warriors. As we neared the fortress I slowed down, but it was too late. The Shadow Knights guarding the fortress had seen us. "Hold your ground." I said. As they neared, I prepared for the battle. Last night's vision seemed as distant as it could be. Suddenly shapes, other people, began to appear. I spotted Lily and Zane among them. I saw Katelyn's gaze lock with a woman's. The woman had hair that looked almost exactly like Katelyn's. She was wearing lilac colored armor, I spotted the O' Khasis symbol on the armor. As the Shadow Knights drew near I felt determination surge through me. "Today. The Shadow Lord falls once and for all." I thought. "Now!" I ordered and, with the other Divine Warriors at my side, the battle begun. As we fought I knew we could win, we'd beaten them before we could do it again. Once the Shadow Knights had stopped attacking I saw that there were only a few left, "You know who you are. Now you must fight the final battle, like you did all the others Irene. Trust the others. You must stand and fight, without us." Lily's voice whispered in my ear. I saw that all the spirits were fading. "Good-bye Lily." Aaron said. "Mom, please." Katelyn's voice came from slightly behind me, but when I looked I saw nothing except Katelyn. " This  is the final battle." I said. A man, that was standing in the middle of the Shadow Knights' battle line, stepped forward, "Laurance, it's good to see you again." he said. The man who had been on his right nodded and the woman, which I recognized with surprise as Sasha, nodded. "Too bad I can't say the same." Laurance replied. Sasha stepped forward to stand by the man, "Laurance... please. This isn't a battle you can’t win." she said. "No Sasha. I can't win it alone, but I'm  not  alone." Laurance said, I could tell he didn't want to fight her, but would if he had to. The man turned to me, "Irene, it's been a long time since we last spoke, even saw each other for that matter." he said, "What do you say? We could have everything we ever wanted." I suddenly recognized him. "No," I said, "you took that away when you became who you are." I felt grief well inside of me. "Suit yourself." he said, shrugging. On an invisible signal the battle began again. I saw Laurance fighting with the man. It wasn't long before it was calm again. I saw Sasha standing over the man, "I'm sorry that you forgot  everything ." she said, with that she raised her sword but before she could do anything the Shadow Lord launched himself forward, "Traitor!" he yelled. As his blade hit her hard in the side, she was knocked away from the man and to the ground. Before he could move I sprung, knocking the Shadow Lord back, I prepared for a battle. "You still think you'll be able to kill me? Don't you remember last time? You didn't! What was it you said?  Oh yes! You said, 'But I can't!' " with that he sprung at me, I dodged to the side. I felt the air from his blade on my arm. I whirled on him and sprang, catching him off balance and pinning him down. "Give up!" I ordered, feeling grief pricking my heart. He laughed, feeling my anger, both past and present, swell I lifted my sword and brought it down, almost immediately killing him. I turned to see that the man had risen, Laurance was glaring at him as if daring him to move. Looking around I spotted Sasha laying on the ground where she had fallen. Running over I saw that she was unconscious. I pressed my hands instinctively onto her side and without a moment passing my powers worked and she was healed. "What should we do with  him ?" Laurance asked from where he still guarded the man. "I would like to serve as a guard as I once did." he said. Something told me the battle had changed something. "Come, we'll take him prisoner." with that Laurance tied his hands and followed me towards the portal. <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:22.5pt;border-style:none;border-width:initial;padding:0in;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Chapter 16: Garroth's POV  '<span style="font-size:10pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Edit '<span style="font-size:21pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">  <p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:4.8pt0in6pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">As we walked away from the old guard tower where Michi was kept, and where we were keeping the man, I felt exhausted. I could tell that the others felt the same. As we neared the gates Levin and Malachi greeted us eagerly. "I'll tell you everything in the morning." Aphmau promised. Levin nodded and led Malachi away towards there house. "Let's head to bed." Aphmau said. We all agreed without protest, and headed up the tree house and to our beds.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;border:1ptnonewindowtext;padding:0in;">Battle was all around me. I caught glimpses of structures of Phoenix Drop. Then something I couldn't believe, I thought I saw myself locked in battle with a soldier. I realized that while the battle bustled around me, no one even seemed to realize that I was standing there. As the battle continued around me, it seemed to stretch on forever. With a jolt of horror I realized that the people that seemed to be invading Phoenix Drop seemed to horribly outnumber the people fighting for Phoenix Drop. Suddenly, through the tumult and chaos, I heard a yell of anger and grief. There were words in it, they were vaguely familiar but I couldn't make them out. Before I could move, there was a bright white flash and when it was gone I saw that only people that looked like they were from the alliance. I could see wear spirits were fading. But what caught my eye was Aphmau crouched over a body. As it blurred I wasn't able to tell who it was. But what I could tell that was it ominously still. When I blinked I found myself in the clearing surrounded by forest, in front of me stood Zane. Before I could speak, Zane spoke, "Have no fear. No one will fall other than your enemies. Remember, you and the other Divine Warriors, you fought impossible battles, you can fight this one too." he paused, "The King of the Tu'la Region is coming. You  <span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">must  summon the alliance." with that the clearing began to fade. ''

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-bottom:0.0001pt;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">I jerked awake. Who was that that had seemed to be dead? I saw Aphmau talking to the others and hurried over to join. "It was weird." Laurance was saying. "We all saw the  exact  same thing." Katelyn said, "And they all said the same thing to." she shook her head in irritation. "What about you Garroth?" Aphmau asked, and I quickly told them.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 17: Nicole’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I walked out of the meeting room, relieved that the meeting was over. “Time to head home.” I thought walking towards the door that lead out into Scaleswind, out of the meeting hall. As I walked outside I had only walked a few steps when I heard a familiar voice calling a warm greeting, “Nicole!” spinning around I saw Aphmau. “Aphmau!” I said in greeting running over. I felt happiness course through me at the sight of my old friend. “What brings you here?” I asked, hoping she would say that she was just visiting. Before she even spoke I could see the seriousness in her eyes, “Nicole, I’ve found out that the King of the Tu’la region is planning to attack Pheonix Drop.” her words left me startled. I was surprised to hear that after taking over O’Khasis that they would target Pheonix Drop next. I almost questioned her but stopped myself as I saw the seriousness in her eyes again. She wasn’t joking, this was real. It didn’t matter how she knew, she knew. This wasn’t a joke, this threat was real. “You can count on Scaleswind to be there in battle with you. Pheonix Drop won’t fall without a fight. It survived Scaleswind attacking, it won’t fall now.” I promised. “Thank you, Nicole. I can’t say how much it means that Scaleswind will be fighting beside Pheonix Drop.” She said in reply, her eyes flooded with relief and then seemed to flash with memory and fear. The fear and the memory, whatever it was, disappeared quickly. “I’ll be there in the battle.” I promised. “Nicole, you’re a lord. You can’t risk yourself like that.” Aphmau said. “You can’t stop me.” I replied stubbornly. She looked as if she was going to protest again, then seemed to realize I wasn’t changing my mind. “I can’t stop you. If it’s okay, I’ll stay a couple days and we can depart back to Pheonix Drop together.” she said. I nodded my agreement and lead the way towards my house where she could stay.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 18: Laurance’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I was glad to be walking beside Cadenza on the way back to Pheonix Drop. I had been in New Meteli a couple of days while she had prepared to depart. While I was there I had had dreams of the coming battle and of darkness. As the outer wall of Pheonix Drop came into view I felt joy rush through me, then doubt. Would Bright Port and Scaleswind really come to Pheonix Drop because of one person’s word? I held my breath now as I walked towards the gate. As I walked through I felt overwhelming relief as I spotted Nicole and John talking to Levin. Levin was casting glances to where Aphmau and Garroth were standing off on the side. I walked over to join them while Cadenza joined the other lords and everyone else dispersed “I see that your trips went well.” I said. “And yours.” Aphmau said, “Come the others are waiting in the tree house.” she turned and began walking towards the tree house.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">-

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I prepared for the battle. The Tu’la ships looming closer with every second. I shuddered as I remembered my dreams of this battle and darkness. I glanced to my left, where the other Divine Warriors were, and felt reassured. As the ships reached land I heard someone yell, “ATTACK!” I prepared myself as the soldiers rushed off the boats and started fighting. I swung at every enemy within my reach. Through the crowd Aphmau appeared at my side and we fought, side by side. The battle raged on, seeming to stretch on forever. I had quickly lost track of time. Suddenly Aphmau whirled around, but at the same moment I felt something stab my chest and everything went dark. At the edge of my hearing I heard a quickly fading whisper of anger and grief. Then all was dark and silent. I heard a whisper saying, “It is not time yet, go back.” by this I was confused. After a couple of moments, light exploded around me and I found myself on the ground, lying flat on my back. The battle was gone, there was no sign of the Tu’la region. Aphmau was crouched beside me, tears rolling down her face. “Laurance,” she breathed, just loud enough for me to hear. “Aphmau, it’s okay.” I said. Her eyes lit up, “Laurance!” she said. By now the other Divine Warriors had come closer. They let out words of joy. Deciding not to ruin the moment I didn’t ask what had happened but just stood up.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 19: Jeffory’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I ran towards mine and Katelyn’s meeting place. I had brought her here when I had proposed to her. It seemed like years away now, then me and Katelyn had been normal people living everyday lives, now we were the Divine Warriors. We hardly had time to get away, but we were doing it today. It was around midday when I got there, Katelyn was there already. “What took you?” she asked teasingly. Before I could reply, I heard a crashing in the undergrowth. Turning around I thought I saw Laurance but he didn’t seem to care where he was going. Glancing back at Katelyn I saw that she was walking over to me. “Let’s go see if he’s okay.” she said, then took off after Laurance with me by her side. We ran fast, but Laurance was doing the same making it hard to catch up. But it looked like he had been running for a while, so we were slowly catching up. After a while, we emerged in a clearing and I instantly saw a white portal. I saw Katelyn’s gaze go to it momentarily before going back to Laurance, who had stopped running now and was gazing at the portal. We slowly approached him, “Laurance?” Katelyn asked softly. Laurance spun around and I was taken back by the fear and confusion in his eyes. “Is everything okay?” I asked, though I could tell something was wrong. “What am I?” Laurance asked in reply. “What do you mean?” Katelyn asked, she glanced at me and I could see my own concern reflected in her eyes. “You know what happened in the battle. I should be dead.” he said. “So should I!” I blurted out without thinking and in reply Katelyn winced. Before he could reply I heard Aphmau calling somewhere nearby, “Over here!” Katelyn called and in a few moments Aphmau appeared. She stepped forward towards Laurance and what I saw in her eyes was fear and concern. Now I realized that Katelyn was standing close to me, I felt a tingle of happiness, but it evaporated quickly. Aphmau was leaning onto Laurance, “Don’t ever do that again. Don’t ever run away from me again.” she said, “I love you, and I don’t want to see you get hurt.” I saw Laurance put his arms around Aphmau in a comforting gesture, “Do you know how much it hurt? To feel like I might have to live without you.” she asked. “Shhh. It’s all right, I’m here.” Laurance said gently. “You act like it’s a bad thing you came back.” she murmured, just loud enough for me to hear. “We should give them some space.” Katelyn murmured from beside me. I nodded and turned back towards Phoenix Drop.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 20: Laurance’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I saw Jeffory and Katelyn walk back on the path towards Phoenix Drop. I looked down. “I don’t understand what it felt like, fearing that I wouldn’t be here with you, for you. And I can’t imagine life without you.” I said. My earlier fear and confusion seemed to have disappeared, Aphmau needed my attention. “Why did you run off like that? You kept asking me to tell you what happened in the battle and now you know. I don’t even know how I did it.” she said. “It’s okay, you don’t need to worry. I’ll always be here for you.” I said, trying to push the fear that was threatening to resurface down. “Don’t be afraid Laurance. You know exactly who you are.” she murmured gently. “Is that true?” I thought, but didn’t speak out loud. Since the battle three days ago, I hadn’t had visions, past or future, nor had I spoken to people of the past. “It is not time yet, go back.” I murmured to myself. “What do you mean?” Aphmau asked, concern edging her voice. I didn’t want to concern her more so I answered, “During the battle, a voice told me that it wasn’t time yet and to go back.” I felt pain pricking me sharply as the realization that that might be the last time I ever hear someone from the past’s voice set in. I looked up from Aphmau as I heard voices approaching, I could pick out Katelyn’s do to her agitated tone, though I couldn’t tell what she was saying. Aphmau didn’t seem to hear them, “I’m sorry, Aphmau. I won’t do it again.” I promised. “I’d follow you anywhere you ran, you should know that by now.” she looked up at me, making eye contact with me. There was nothing but pure love in her eyes, “You came back for a reason, Laurance. Don’t throw it away.” she said lovingly. Part of me wanted to believe that she was right, I wanted to, but part of me doubted it. “What if?” I couldn’t bring myself to finish the thought or speak it out loud. Aphmau seemed to have sensed the question, “No Laurance. You’re not one of them. You’re my Laurance, my funny, sweet, kind Laurance.” she said. My doubt seemed to disappear at her words. I glanced up from her gaze to see an agitated Katelyn and Garroth. I remembered running from Phoenix Drop, hoping to escape the truth that the Divine Warriors had tried to hide from me. I had run straight past Garroth. Though I still wasn’t sure at what point in my run Jeffory and Katelyn had started following me. Looking back down I was rewrapped in her love. “I never should have–“ I said but Aphmau interrupted, “It’s fine. We – We never should have tried to hide the truth from you.” she said, “That’s what drove you away, the truth. If we hadn’t hidden it, then maybe you would’ve taken it better.” she continued. Her gaze fell to the ground, as if she could no longer bear to look at me. “Are you okay?” I asked, beginning to feel concerned. “No.” she murmured, when she looked up I could see guilt in her eyes, “It’s all my fault.” I could see pain in her eyes. Taking a step forward and placed my arms around her in a comforting gesture. “I was the one who reacted like that when you told me.” I said, hoping to comfort her. “You don’t get it.” she said. “What’s wrong Aphmau?” I said, “Please tell me.” I was beginning to feel desperate. When she locked her gaze with mine it was full of pain, “It’s my fault. It was my idea not to tell you. I thought it would be better if you didn’t know.” she murmured guiltily. “It wasn’t just you Aphmau. We agreed to it.” Garroth’s voice said. Aphmau jumped as if she hadn’t known he was here. When I glanced away from her I saw him standing a foot or so away. “Don’t feel guilty Aphmau. You were doing what you thought was best. You were trying to protect me.” I said. Aphmau let out a sigh of relief as if she was worried that I’d be mad. “Garroth, can we have some time alone?” she asked. Garroth nodded and headed back towards Phoenix Drop. Once he and Katelyn were out of sight Aphmau looked at me, “We never should have hid the truth.” she repeated. “It’s fine.” I said. She stepped closer to me until she could again rest her head on my chest. After a moment she looked up and her lips met mine.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 21: Garroth’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">As I walked back towards Pheonix Drop I kept glancing back towards the clearing with the Irene portal where Katelyn and me had just come from. “She said ‘time’ not ‘seconds’ Garroth.” Katelyn snapped. What had put her in a bad mood? As we neared Pheonix Drop she broke off from the path, “I’ll see you later.” she called, disappearing into the undergrowth. As I walked on and the outer wall of Pheonix Drop came into site I put on a speed burst and headed for the gates. When I reached the gates I realized that the sun was nearing the horizon. “Everyone else is going to have to hurry to get back before dark.” Aaron’s voice said as he walked toward me. I let out a sigh, “I don’t know how Aphmau and Laurance will make it, Aphmau wouldn’t leave Laurance, and he ran pretty hard and very fast.” I said. After a few minutes of nothing happening, just waiting, I was starting to get worried. Just then Katelyn and Jeffory came up the path, walking close together and side-by-side. I threw an amused glance at Aaron and saw amusement in his eyes as well. As they entered the gates I asked, “Did you see Laurance and Aphmau?” Katelyn shook her head. “They’re not back yet?” Jeffory asked, seeming surprised. “No,” Aaron answered him. “Should we go look for them?” I asked. “Maybe,” Jeffory said. “They’re both strong and able to look after themselves.” Katelyn said gently, casting me a sympathetic glance. Aaron looked to be thinking, “It’s nearly dark. If we did go, how would we find them? They’ve probably made a camp for the night.” he said. I forced myself not to snap at them, “Fine, we won’t go looking for them. But if they’re not back by noon tomorrow I’m going.” I said instead. “You won’t go alone then.” Jeffory said. I walked towards the treehouse with the others close behind.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I stood in a room. On the other side of the room was what looked like a prison cell. Stepping towards it I could see someone in it. Squinting in the fading light, I made out a familiar shape. Looking closer, I saw faded armor. Suddenly I realized what I was seeing. Zenix! I heard voices from outside. Slipping towards the door I listened. “Have we decided what to do with him?” one voice asked. “No, Cal hasn’t spoken.” another voice answered. “We need a new lord.” the original voice said. And then the dream blurred and faded. And when I blinked it was gone. ''

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Upon awaking I realized it was dawn. Panic flared within me. Zenix was in trouble! “He’s not who you thought he was!” I yelled at myself silently, “He tried to kill Aphmau.” I reminded myself. But a question nagged at me, was he still a Shadow Knight when the Shadow Lord had been defeated once and for all? I went down from the treehouse, looking to see if anyone else was awake. After a moment I spotted Katelyn. “Morning Garroth!” she called to me. “Good morning to you too.” I said going over to her. “What’s wrong?” she asked in a low voice, so no one else could hear. Quickly, I told her of the dream. She thought for a moment, “So why do you seem so indecisive about whether to rescue him or not?” she asked. I told her of how Aphmau had said that he’d tried to kill her and that he was a Shadow Knight. She thought for a moment, “When Aphmau gets back, it will mostly be up to her to decide what we do.” she said. I sighed, it would be up to Aphmau.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 22: Aphmau’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">We hadn’t been heading back to Pheonix Drop, when I noticed that Laurance was starting to stumble occasionally. “Are you okay?” I asked. “Yeah, just a little worn out from running so much earlier.” he answered. “We could stop for the night.” I suggested, glancing at the sun I saw that it had nearly disappeared. “Sure.” Laurance replied. “I’ll get some firewood if you want.” I said. He just nodded in reply and began setting camp. It didn’t take long to find enough wood for a fire and return to camp. I found Laurance already sleeping and nearly laughed. “Good night.” I murmured, heading for my own bed.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;">''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">The sounds of battle raged around me. Anger shot through me. A sword gleamed on the edge of my view. Whirling around I was just in time to see the soldier’s sword hit Laurance’s chest. I lunged. Knocking the soldier away. It was too late. Laurance was dead. I yelled out of anger and grief. A second after a white flash appeared, blinding me. When it cleared, the Tu’la invaders were gone. I collapsed beside Laurance. Grief enveloping me. After a few moments I breathed, “Laurance,” as if in reply Laurance’s voice said, “Aphmau, it’s okay.” <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height: 107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif"> and then the memory was gone.''

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I awoke at dawn. The nightmare of a memory had plagued my every sleeping moment since the battle. Laurance was stirring too. “I wish I could tell him about the nightmares, but I don’t want yesterday again.” I thought. Getting up I joined Laurance by the path. “You okay? You look pretty shaken.” Laurance asked as I neared. I hesitated. Did I tell him? Did I lie? “Everything’s fine.” I lied, averting his gaze. “Your lying.” he said, “You can’t fool me Aphmau.” I felt guilt well up in me and found myself pouring out what was wrong to him. “It’s okay. We know how that story ends.” he said reassuringly. I let out a sigh. “We better get back before Garroth goes crazy. Knowing him he’s probably worried.” Laurance said. “Yeah, let’s go.” I agreed. As we set off towards Pheonix Drop, I noticed Laurance seemed distracted. “Laurance?” I asked softly. “Yes?” Laurance replied. “You okay? You seem distracted.” I said. “It’s nothing. Just a dream.” he said, though I could tell it was more than “just a dream”. “It was a vision, wasn’t it?” I pressed. “Fine. It was. But I’m not sure what it was.” he admitted. “Well, why don’t you tell me what you saw?” I said. By the time Laurance had finished telling me we had arrived at the gates in Pheonix Drop. “Aphmau!” Garroth exclaimed as he ran towards me, greeting me in a hug. “Hello Garroth.” I said as he stepped back, looking slightly embarrassed. I heard Laurance laugh. Glancing to where Garroth had come from, I saw Aaron, Katelyn and Jeffory. Signaling for the two to follow me I went to join them. “Good to see you two home safe.” Jeffory said, with nods of agreement from Katelyn and Aaron. “What were you guys discussing?” I asked curiously. “You tell Garroth.” Katelyn said. Garroth quickly explained almost the same thing Laurance had in much more detail. “Zenix.” Laurance murmured quietly. “Do you know him?” I asked, feeling a chill run down my back at the thought of Laurance knowing the man. “Not really, he was one of the most respected until he just… disappeared. Everyone assumed that he had become too attached to people in Pheonix Drop to abandon them.” Laurance said. “Well we can see that’s not true.” I said. Laurance nodded. “What are we going to do?” Aaron asked. Sighing, I tried to think of my answer. Could we just abandon him? Should we help him? I knew we should, but the memory of him attacking me, of his lies and betrayal. But a question that nagged at me was, if we did rescue him, would he just betray our trust again? “Give me some time to think, maybe I can ask someone about it.” I said. I had nearly said “Lily” but stopped myself, she usually was the one who appeared to me in dreams. Garroth nodded, though I could see that he was reluctant. As we dispersed I stayed there, thinking. I noticed Garroth staying behind, “What is it Garroth?” I asked. “It’s just, is he still a Shadow Knight when the Shadow Lord is defeated once and for all?” he said. I shook my head, “I don’t know Garroth.” I said. <span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif"> Chapter 23: Katelyn’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">“Why does Aphmau suddenly care so much about saving the man that yesterday I swear she almost just said flat out no?” I asked Jeffory irritably. “I don’t know. All she said this morning is that we were going after all.” he paused, “And I’m not going to pressure her into telling me.” he finished. I sighed, Jeffory was right, she’d tell us when she wanted to. But still! Why did we all have to suffer through this for a man that we didn’t know? The only ones that knew him were Aphmau, Garroth, and Laurance. And Laurance hardly knew him. “Aphmau!” Jeffory called, then hurried to catch up with me following close behind. “Where are we going?” he asked her. Aphmau’s eyes didn’t leave the trail as she replied, “I’m not sure. All I know is it’s a village called Deer Point.” she sighed, obviously wishing she knew more. “Deer Point.” he said under his breath, then shook his head, “For once, I’ve never been there.” he said finally. Thinking far back in my memory, I tried to find the memories of my days on the Jury of Nine that had been buried, but instead I found myself slipping around a battle towards a small building. Once inside I saw a prison cell with someone inside. Just then I heard someone saying my name, concern in their voice. Blinking, I was back on the trail. “Katelyn!” Jeffory’s voice said, more urgency and concern in his voice. “What just happened?” I asked, trying to sort out what I had just seen, “That was not the past! Or the Jury!” I exclaimed then stopped. The others were gazing at me and confusion and concern. Pushing the vision away I asked, “Are we going to this Deer Point or not?” After a couple of moments Aphmau nodded and carried on, though she flashed me another questioning glance. As we walked, I noticed everyone was calm again except Jeffory. “Okay, what is it?” I asked, slightly irritated that he was still concerned about me but I didn’t show it. “It’s just… It was like you were far away, like I couldn’t reach you. It was scary.” He said, his eyes shining bright with the memory and fear. “I’m fine.” I assured him, though it didn’t seem to help. “You obviously aren’t. It’s not like you, to get a faraway look and just ignore the whole world.” He said, his fear and concern seeming to rise with every word. Finally, I stopped and he stopped to. I gazed at him, his eyes so full of love with an under lining of concern. “I’m fine, nothing’s wrong.” I said. “Katelyn, please… Don’t push me away.” He said, a desperate look coming across his face. I sighed, “You haven’t changed a bit!” I said teasingly, then told him about the vision. “Great! All’s we need right now is another battle like the last one!” he exclaimed, “Both Laurance and Aphmau will go over the edge!” I nodded in agreement, “It would put them over the edge. Aphmau’s woken up looking shaken ever since the battle and Laurance…” my voice trailed off. “Are you coming?” Aphmau’s voice cut into our conversation. “Coming!” I called and ran to catch up. No one questioned us but I saw Garroth and Laurance exchange amused glances. Aphmau had stopped up ahead, “We’ll arrive tomorrow morning.” She told us.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 24: Aphmau’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I lead my friends, and fellow Divine Warriors, into Deer Point. Glancing to my right, I saw the small prison that I had seen last night in a dream. A guard approached us, “Welcome to Deer Point. Is there a reason you came here?” He said. “In a way. We would like to talk to your lord.” I said. The guard didn’t question us but led us to a house. He knocked on a door and after a moment a man answered a door. “These people would like to talk to you.” He said. With that the guard walked away, “Come in.” the man at the door invited. As we walked in, he gestured to a table. As we sat he asked, “What brings you here? Oh, I’m Cal by the way.” He said. “We’ve heard that you have one of our friends held prisoner.” I said calmly, to my surprise, Katelyn didn’t make any protests. “Unfortunately, I can’t release our prisoner.” Cal said, an edge to it that dared us to protest. “We also have good reasons to want him, he betrayed us.” I said. He shook his head stubbornly. “We’re not leaving until we get him.” Katelyn said. I flashed her a surprised look but she wouldn’t make eye contact with me. I thought about Katelyn’s vision, all she had seen was the prison and the cell. “You are leaving without him. Whether I have to force you to or not.” Cal said. “No. We’re. Not.” Katelyn said firmly. Through the door came guards. “What?” Katelyn snapped. “You’re leaving.” Cal stated. There was nothing we could do as the guards marched us out of Cal’s house and through the gate.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif"> “Does everyone remember the plan?” I asked. “Why do I have to be the one to free Zenix? Surely my skills would be better used on the battlefield.” Katelyn asked. “There’s a reason you’re there. You’re quick and plus, this isn’t a war.” I said. Katelyn nodded, though she exchanged a glance with Jeffory. “Let’s go.” I said, slipping towards Deer Point. Charging out of the tree line, I headed straight for the gate. Almost as soon as we were through, the battle broke out around me. I swung out strongly at the guards. After a few minutes of playing distracter, I heard Katelyn’s voice above the clamor. “Pull back!” I yelled and began receding towards the gate. With a quick glance around, I saw that I was the one farthest from the gate. “At least if someone gets captured it’ll be me.” I thought. As we neared the gate, I saw Garroth and Laurance stop to make sure everyone made it. “We did it!” I thought. Then my excitement disappeared to be replaced with dread as a group of soldiers surrounded me. “Aphmau!” I heard Garroth’s fear stricken yell. A moment later he appeared. He shoved me towards the gate, “Run!” he ordered. I ran and as I reached the gate glanced over my shoulder. “No!” I breathed in horror as I saw that they had captured Garroth. “We’ll come back for him, but we have to go!” Laurance’s voice said as he appeared at my side. “I can’t leave him behind again!” I said, remembering how I had been forced to leave him behind in the Irene dimension. “I came to close to losing him then, I won’t risk losing him again.” I thought. “If we stay here then we’ll all be captured.” Laurance tried to reason. I looked him in the eyes and saw my own emotions of love, fear, and concern reflected in his eyes. “Lead the others into the woods, I’ll catch up soon.” I promised. He hesitated for a moment then nodded, “Be careful.” He said before he turned and headed into the woods after the others. I shook my head to clear it, “Focus!” I thought. Slipping into the village but sticking to the shadows, I headed towards where two guards were holding Garroth in front of Cal, “Idiots, they didn’t even take his blade!” I thought. When I was in a spot where I could easily slip in between Garroth and Cal, I sprinted down the hill, “Let him go!” I ordered. My blade was drawn, if they wanted a fight they could have it. “Would you like to join him? Because if you do, you’re welcome to stay.” Cal replied. Whirling around, I lashed out at the guards holding Garroth. They backed up a couple steps, “If you want a fight, we’ll bring it.” I told Cal. He snorted as if amused and flicked his hand. With that, the guards attacked. I swung out at every soldier within reach as me and Garroth pushed towards the gate. “Pull back! It’s not worth it!” A voice sounded above the noise. Many of the guards pulled back, though a few kept fighting. “Just run!” I told Garroth, who was right ahead of me. As we began to run, I felt a blade slice my side but I ignored the pain. As we ran through the gates, we kept running into the forest. After we had run into the forest a ways, I began to stumble, the pain in my side making it hard to focus on running. Garroth slowed his pace to a stop, “They’re not following.” He said. My head spun with the pain in my side so that I only nodded in reply. “You’re hurt!” Garroth exclaimed. As if on some instinct, he pressed his hands to the wound. I felt my legs becoming weak, “Lay down.” Garroth instructed, helping me to a laying position. “Stay with me.” He said, fear glazing his eyes. Fear sliced through my pain momentarily, was it that bad? “Darn it! I need something to stop this from bleeding.” He muttered. Darkness pressed on the edge of my vision, “No, I’m not ready yet.” I thought. “Aphmau, stay with me, please.” Garroth said, fear filling his voice. I heard footsteps coming from deeper into the woods, “Aphmau!” Jeffory’s horrified voice was the last thing I heard before darkness took hold of me.

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<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif"> “Please, please wake up.” I heard Laurance’s voice at the edge of my conciseness. “Laurance, she’s been out for two days now. She’s not waking up.” I heard Garroth’s voice say, full of grief. “No! She can’t be dead! Why did I ever leave her? I should have protected her! I should have-“ Laurance was interrupted by Garroth. “Let’s leave her to pass peacefully.” He said, “We won’t leave until she’s gone but let her go peacefully.” Garroth continued. I heard Laurance and Garroth’s retreating footsteps fading until they were gone. Opening my eyes, I saw the roof of a tent. “What?” I thought confused. Then I remembered everything. The battle, Garroth getting captured, his panic while he tried to stop my side from bleeding. Raising my head, I saw bandages wrapped carefully around the injury. I wondered if I should try to get up but decided it would be dumb to risk reopening the wound. Letting my head rest on the pillow again, I closed my eyes and listened to what was going on outside. For the most part, it was quiet. Only broken by the swishing of a tent door, “I’m so sorry Aphmau.” Jeffory’s voice whispered, “I should have come back sooner.” I felt a pang of guilt, why couldn’t I have stayed concise? “Jeffory.” I said weakly, opening my eyes. His eyes lit up, “Aphmau!” he exclaimed quietly. An overwhelming joy replaced the grief in his eyes, “You’re alive. We thought…” his voice trailed off. “I know.” I said, my voice still weak. He didn’t seem to know exactly what to do, “Do you want some water?” He asked after a moment. I nodded, realizing just how thirsty I was. “But I’m not hungry, strange.” I thought. I watched him go back through the tent’s door and return a couple minutes later with some water, “Here.” He said, helping me to a sitting position. I drank the water thankfully. “Thanks Jeffory.” I said, my voice slightly stronger now. “Anything. Do you want me to tell the others?” he said, concern still in his eyes. “Sure.” I said. Carefully, I lay down as Jeffory left the tent again. After a few minutes I heard Katelyn’s voice say, “She needs proper medical attention! We should at least go to New Meteli, it’s the closest village to here.” I heard an exasperated sigh. “If we risk traveling then we risk reopening her wound!” Garroth’s voice rose in protest. “Guys!” Jeffory broke in, “She’s trying to rest. Both of you have good points, if we rush into traveling we take a bigger risk at reopening her side but she also needs medical attention.” He continued calmly. I lay there, listening to the others try to decide what to do. <span style="font-size:21.0pt; line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 25: Laurance’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I felt exasperated. This never happened when Aphmau was in charge! We were still quarrelling over what to do now that Aphmau had woken up. “It’s because we all look to her as our leader. Without her we don’t have a leader!” I thought. “Can we all just think about this over night?” Aaron broke in to Katelyn’s words which I hadn’t heard. “Sure.” Katelyn said and Garroth, Jeffory, and I nodded. As I stood from where I’d sat, I headed to the tent that me and Garroth shared. As I lay there, sleep quickly took me in.

<p class="MsoNormal">''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I stood there, waiting for Jeffory to return. “Aphmau!” Jeffory’s horrified yell reached my ears. On a silent signal, me, Katelyn, and Aaron ran towards where the sound had come from. As we reached them, I saw Aphmau on the ground unconscious. Garroth had his hands pressed to her side while Jeffory stood there frozen in horror. “Don’t just stand there!” Katelyn said, pushing past me. Grabbing some of the bandages we had taken with us from Pheonix Drop and given her before the battle, she wrapped the wound in a layer of protection. After a few minutes, the bleeding had stopped. “We need to set a camp. And there’s a good spot not far from here.” Katelyn said. The memory blurred and as I blinked, I found myself in a different memory. “Please, please wake up.” I begged the unconscious Aphmau. “Laurance, she’s been out for two days now.” Garroth said from the other side of her bed, voice filled with grief. “No! I don’t want to remember this!” I screamed silently, “Someone wake me up!” I thought. Just then a voice broke in on my nightmare. ''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I jerked awake to find Garroth standing at my bedside. “Are you okay?” He asked. “Yeah, I’m fine.” I said. Garroth gave me a disbelieving look but didn’t press me any further. “It’s dawn.” He said. Standing up, we together headed for the outside. “Anyone have any luck last night?” Jeffory asked. I knew what he was asking. “No.” I said, then added silently, “Just nightmares.” Aaron and Katelyn shook their heads. “Does anyone call Aphmau standing in New Meteli a sign?” Garroth asked. “Maybe. It could mean we’re supposed to go to New Meteli.” Jeffory said. “What are we supposed to do if we can’t make any sense of what we’re being shown?” I asked in distress. Katelyn’s gaze grew far away. I saw Jeffory’s eyes grow dark with concern. After a couple moments he began saying her name. After a few more moments Katelyn blinked, “Okay, we’re staying here.” She said. I exchanged a puzzled glance with Garroth but didn’t speak.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">It had been four days since Aphmau had woken up. “We can start traveling.” Aphmau repeated. “Okay, but if you start getting tired or anything just tell us and we’ll stop. Okay?” Garroth said. “Okay.” Aphmau replied. Katelyn began to walk towards New Meteli with the rest following close behind. I stayed close by Aphmau, just in case she needed help. I tried to focus on the woods ahead and stay alert for danger but my gaze kept going back to Aphmau. She gave me a glance full of amusement. Embarrassed that she’d noticed, I forced myself to look ahead.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 26: Jeffory’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I followed near the front by Katelyn. We had been traveling to New Meteli for two days, not counting today. “She’s pushing herself to hard, she’s going to hurt herself.” Katelyn muttered to me with a worried glance at Aphmau. I understood what Katelyn was saying, we had figured it would be four days to get this far. Glancing at the sun I saw that it was midday. Katelyn through another glance back towards Aphmau, she had been struggling today. “I don’t care what she says, we’re stopping before she hurts herself.” Katelyn said, signaling for the others to stop. “It’s only midday, we can still make good progress.” Aphmau protested. With a glance I saw Garroth trying to reason her quietly. “If you hurt yourself, we’ll be making no progress.” Katelyn said her voice full of fear and compassion. Aphmau sighed, I could tell by the look in her eyes that she understood, “She’s scared she’s slowing us down.” I murmured to Katelyn. She gave an almost in decipherable nod. Laurance had walked over now and was murmuring something gently to Aphmau. I noticed Aaron glance at her before beginning to set camp. “We’re all worried she’s pushing herself to hard.” I thought. After the camp was set, Aphmau disappeared into the tent she shared with Katelyn. “Go on, I’m used to it.” Katelyn told Laurance and Garroth. Before they could move, I stood and went into the tent. “Aphmau, are you alright?” I asked as I walked towards where she was sitting on her bed. “I’m slowing everyone down.” She said, looking at me. Guilt was clear in her eyes, “She needs Garroth and Laurance.” I thought. “You know that’s not true.” Laurance said, glancing behind me I saw that he’d followed me in. “Then what do you call it?”  She challenged him, I blinked in surprise. “I call it looking after you.” Laurance said calmly, walking past me to stand beside her bed. She looked at him with a longing in her eyes. “We all just want you to get well. We’re not trying to make you feel guilty, everyone gets hurt sometimes.” Laurance said, eyes shining with concern and love. “I don’t need-“ Aphmau began to protest but Laurance interrupted. “We need you to get well. And if you keep pushing yourself this hard, you’re just going to hurt yourself worse.” He said. I slipped out of the tent to give them some space. Katelyn gave me a glance, full of questions but she held her tongue. I nodded at Garroth, he nodded back and went to join Laurance. Aaron was standing at the edge of camp, looking into the forest. As I looked back at Katelyn, I saw affection lighting her gaze.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I paced outside the house. “Garroth, would you give it a rest?” Katelyn asked from where she was sitting with Jeffory. I gave her a small glare and kept pacing. “She’s right Garroth. You’ve been pacing since we got here.” Laurance said, though looking at him I could see anxiousness in his eyes. It had been midday when we got to New Meteli. “She hasn’t even been in there long.” Katelyn added, though I could tell she was slightly sympathetic. I sighed and walked over to join them. Aaron stood a foot away, watching the door intently. “We all just need to calm down.” I thought, with a prick of irritation at myself. I stood there, waiting for Aphmau. After a few minutes, I glanced at Laurance. I saw that he was beginning to look anxious. After a while, I went for a walk, heading into the forest we’d come from. As I walked, I couldn’t push the memory of the battle from my head. “This is all my fault!” I thought, angry at myself for being captured so easily. “If I hadn’t been captured, we all would have made it away unscathed!” I thought, feeling the anger at myself rise. “I wish that I could go back and change what happened!” I thought, sitting down on the ground. As I sat there, the memory played over and over in my mind.

<p class="MsoNormal">''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">“Aphmau!” I yelled in fear as I saw the guards surrounded her. As I charged forward the guards released her in surprise, “Run!” I ordered her, pushing her towards the gate. I felt the guards grab me. As they brought me toward Cal, I waited for what he would say. Suddenly, Aphmau was between us. “Let him go!” she ordered, blade drawn. “Would you like to join him? Because if you do, you’re welcome to stay.” Cal replied. Whirling around, she lashed her blade at the guards holding me. “If you want a fight, we’ll bring it.” She threatened Cal. Cal flicked his hand and the guards attacked. As we headed for the gate a voice called, “Pull back! It’s not worth it!” with that, most of the guards fell back with a few still fighting. “Just run!” Aphmau’s order came from behind me and I sprinted forward towards the gate. After we had run into the woods a ways, I stopped, “They’re not following.” I reported. Aphmau nodded in reply, “You’re hurt!” I exclaimed. Quickly, I stepped forward and pressed my hands to the slash wound in her side. “Lay down.” I instructed her, helping her so she wouldn’t fall. “Stay with me.” I said after a moment, fearing the worst. “Darn it! I need something to stop this from bleeding.” I muttered. I noticed she was starting to lose consciousness, “Aphmau, stay with me, please.” I said, fear tightening my voice. ''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">“Garroth!” Laurance’s voice snapped me out of the memory. I saw him standing in front of me, his eyes glittering with worry, “Are you okay?” he asked. “Fine.” I replied flatly. “Don’t do this again. That’s what lead to the Irene dimension, remember?” Laurance said, still concerned. “It’s my fault.” I said. “What do you mean?” Laurance asked me. “If I hadn’t been captured then we would have made a clean get away.” I said, anger in my voice. “You can’t blame yourself, Aphmau was the one who went back.” He said. “But if-“ I began to protest but was interrupted. “If you hold yourself responsible then you’re going to drive everyone who cares about you away!” Laurance snapped. I stayed silent, shocked that he’d snapped and waiting to see what else he would say. “If you hold yourself responsible you’re going to drive everyone away. Is that what you want? I insisted that we come back for you, Aphmau was the one that went back right then without anyone but you with her.” He said, his voice calmer now. “You’re not the only one with regrets about it.” He said. “What do you mean?” I asked, confused at his words. “If I hadn’t left then maybe it would have been me hurt or no one.” He said. I gazed at him sympathetically. “Come on, we should get back.” Laurance said. Standing, I walked beside him back to New Meteli. “There you two are! Aphmau’s had us looking all over for you guys!” Katelyn exclaimed, coming over to us as we reentered New Meteli. “Is she okay?” Laurance asked immediately. “Let’s see, she’s driving herself mad with worry since neither of you said anything and just walked off but other than that she’s fine.” Katelyn said. “Where is she?” I asked. “Where we’re staying until she decides to head to Pheonix Drop.” Katelyn said, walking off. I followed her with Laurance at my side. As we entered the house we saw Aphmau sitting there, her gaze lit up as we entered. “There you two are!” she exclaimed, coming to greet us with warm hugs. “Sorry, we didn’t mean to scare you.” I said when she stepped back. “I’m just glad you’re both safe.” She said, “Especially since we’re heading back to Pheonix Drop tomorrow.” She continued. I glanced at Laurance in concern. “Are you sure?” Laurance asked. She rolled her eyes, though I knew she was doing it because she loved him, “Yes, I’m sure.” She replied. She caught my eye for the first time, “I want to talk to Garroth.” She said. “Okay, me and Laurance will go find Aaron and Jeffory.” Katelyn said, before her and Laurance left, though I could tell she had wanted to question Aphmau. “What’s wrong?” Aphmau asked, concern in her voice. “Nothing.” I lied. She looked at me with a slight irritation crossing her eyes, “It’s not nothing. What’s wrong?” she said, the concern in her eyes growing. I gazed at her, my eyes finding the bandages wrapped around her side to cover her wound, “If I hadn’t been caught then you wouldn’t be hurt.” I said, forcing my anger at myself out of my voice. “Garroth, you know I would come back for anyone, especially for you and Laurance. After having to leave you behind once, I-” she paused to take a steadying breath, “I couldn’t leave you behind again.” She finished. “You mean in the Irene dimension?” I asked. She nodded, guilt flashing in her eyes. “It’s not your fault!” I said. “I didn’t have to leave you, I could have stayed and almost losing you when I managed to get back in there, I couldn’t bear it again.” She said, fear at the memory flashing in her eyes. “Aphmau, don’t blame yourself for what happened, both in the Irene dimension and in the battle.” I said, forcing myself not to step forward and embrace her. “How can I not? I feel so useless!” she said, anger and sadness mixing in her eyes. “You’re not useless, you’re hurt. We’re just trying to take care of you.” I said, fear beginning to form. “I know. I just…” she didn’t finish the sentence as a tear ran down her face. Stepping forward, I wiped the tear from her cheek. “Aphmau, please. Don’t push me away, I love you.” I said, my fear increasing as the time passed. She stayed silent, just looking at me with deep sadness in her eyes, for many moments that seemed to stretch on forever. “Oh Garroth, what do I do?” she finally said, fear making her voice unsteady. “First, you need to calm down, getting this upset isn’t going to help anyone.” I said, trying to calm myself. She took a few deep, steadying breaths then looked back at me, fear still shining in them. “What is she so afraid of?” I wondered.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 28: Aphmau’s POV <span style="font-size: 12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I gazed at Garroth, I could see the love and concern in his eyes. “Now, what’s wrong?” Garroth said after a few moments of silence. “I just… don’t know any more, Garroth. Everything’s been crazy since the battle. Everyone’s arguing, I feel more distant from you and Laurance than ever, and just-“ I stopped myself, taking a calming breath. ”Everyone’s worried about you, especially since you’ve been pushing yourself to travel so far. And Laurance and me are always right here for you, you know that. We would never forget about you, if you had died, I never would have forgiven myself.” Garroth said, eyes alight with understanding. I sighed with relief and felt my fear recede, “And the last thing any of us think of you is that you’re useless. We’re just worried that if we let you push yourself as hard as you are that you’re going to get hurt.” Garroth said. I understood what Garroth was saying, I would be the same if he was the one hurt. “Thank you Garroth.” I said, sighing slightly as I let my exhaustion catch up with me. “Rest and get your strength back, we’ve all seen the toll the last few days has taken on you.” Garroth said, his voice full of love. As he left the room, I lay in my bed and let sleep claim me.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I had spent the last two days resting and was ready to start moving, “Are we ready?” I asked. “As long as you are.” Laurance said. I nodded and headed out of New Meteli. Glancing behind me I saw the others following and smiled to myself. “I’m so glad I have Garroth and Laurance.” I thought. As I walked along the path towards Phoenix Drop, I hardly noticed the small remnant of the wound in my side that had once nearly cost me my life. As we walked, Laurance caught up to me, “How are you feeling?” he asked, I glanced at him and saw a small amount of worry in his eyes. “Fine, I hardly notice it.” I replied, giving him a small smile, remembering the conversation with Garroth three days before. “That’s good.” Laurance said, the worry disappearing, “You know, it’s great to have you back to normal.” He said. “What do you mean by that?” I asked, did he mean to have me healed? “To your old self, you got really depressed for a while. It was worrying. I don’t think the others really noticed, but me and Garroth did.” He said. “I just… had a lot on my mind.” I said, resisting the urge to tell him what had really been wrong. “You can tell me anything, I hate when you keep secrets.” Laurance pressed. “With being injured and all the arguing and I felt useless and like I was slowing everyone down, it just got overwhelming.” I confessed. “You didn’t have to feel guilty. You should have just talked to us, it was a horrible feeling when you were so depressed you didn’t even want to talk. It wasn’t like you at all.” He said, fear glistening in his eyes. “Everything’s okay now.” I assured him. “I know.” He sighed. By the time our conversation ended, we were outside the gates of Phoenix Drop. “Mom!” Malachi’s excited greeting was called as he came over and greeted me in a hug. Silently, I willed him not to notice the bandages on my side. “It’s great to see all of you back safe.” Malachi said, “Me and Levin were starting to get worried something had happened.” He continued. “Yeah! Something did happen. And safe? We fought a battle and I nearly died! Is that safe?” I thought, glancing at Laurance. “It’s good to see you too, Malachi. Is Zoey around?” I said. “Yeah, I think she’s down by the old docks.” Malachi replied. “Thanks. You guys head on in, I’ll catch up in a couple minutes.” I said, turning and beginning to walk towards the dock. “You aren’t going alone.” Laurance said. Turning back around, Malachi spoke before I could, “Is there something I should know about?” he asked. “No. If you’re coming Laurance then let’s go.” When we were out of earshot I took my chance to talk to Laurance, “What was that for? Do you want Malachi and Levin to know?” I asked. Laurance stopped and looked at me, “I just can’t get the battle out of my mind and it makes me more comfortable to be where I can make sure you’re safe. And why does it matter if Malachi and Levin know?” he said, though I could tell there were unspoken words. “I don’t want them to worry. And what are you not telling me?” I replied. “It’s just… if I hadn’t left you then maybe you wouldn’t have gotten hurt.” He said, I could read what he didn’t want to say aloud in his eyes. “I’m glad it wasn’t you or Garroth hurt.” I said. “What do you want to talk to Zoey about any way?” Laurance asked. “Someone should know and Zoey is probably the one who most likely won’t flip out.” I said. He nodded and kept walking and I found myself enjoying his closeness. As we walked down to the docks I saw Zoey. “Hey Zoey!” I called from a couple feet away. “Aphmau! It’s so good to see you home safe-“ she broke off from what she was saying and her eyes darkened with concern. “I didn’t even say anything and she realized it!” I thought, then realized that she was looking at the bandages. “What happened?” she asked, concern clear in her tone. “Zoey, don’t panic. It’s not that bad.” I said. Zoey gave Laurance an inquisitive look and he winced. “Laurance had nothing to do with it.” I said, “There was a battle and Garroth got captured then I went back for him and got hurt.” I explained. “And where were the others in all this?” Zoey asked. “I told them to keep going into the woods.” I said. “At least you didn’t get hurt badly.” Zoey said. I couldn’t keep in the truth, “I nearly died!” I exclaimed. Zoey stared at me in horror. “Why did I do that?” I thought silently with a glance at Laurance. “What?” Zoey said in horror. To my relief, Laurance replied, “She nearly died.” Was all he said. Zoey blinked, “Why did you leave her?” Zoey challenged Laurance. “Zoey, stop. I told you because I thought you wouldn’t flip out. And I don’t want to worry Malachi and Levin.” I said. She nodded, “As long as you’re here.” She said. “Let’s get going to join the others.” Laurance said and as I nodded, we headed towards Pheonix Drop.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 29: Laurance’s POV <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">“Garroth! Laurance!” Aphmau’s cheerful greeting cut into mine and Garroth’s conversation as she approached us. “Yeah Aphmau?” I said, turning towards her. “Am I interrupting anything?” she asked. “No, not really.” Garroth said. “Oh, good.” She said. “Fine.” I said, rolling my eyes in amusement. A smile lit her face. “So, what were you two talking about?” she asked. “Not much. Mostly just about how fast so much has happened.” Garroth replied. Aphmau looked like she was about to say something but before she could, Dante appeared, shock clear in his eyes. Aphmau glanced at me and Garroth, concern in her eyes. “Dante, is everything okay?” she asked. “G-Gene.” He stammered in reply. Aphmau glanced at us again, “Show us.” She said. Dante nodded then turned and walked away with the three of us following close behind. He led us, to my surprise, towards the old guard tower that now served as a prison. As we neared, I heard two voices arguing. “Stay here Dante, we’ll check it out.” Aphmau said before going through the door. Following her in, I saw Sasha, who might as well be staying here voluntarily, glaring at the man, who was glaring back. “Traitor!” he told Sasha. “The Shadow Lord is dead! I can’t betray him if he’s dead.” She shot back. “That doesn’t mean we can turn our backs on the ways he taught us!” The man said, they looked as if they were ready to fight. Aphmau stood watching. “I would rather be dead than continue following his ways!” Sasha said, anger in her tone. “Are you saying you’d side with the murderers of our lord and fellow knights than those fellow knights?” the man challenged. “Yes!” Sasha snapped. The man looked as if he was ready to shoot more hurtful words towards Sasha but Aphmau stepped in. “Enough!” she exclaimed, moving so she was between the two. I tensed, ready to step in if need be. The man glared at her, “Move or I’ll make you.” He ordered. Aphmau met his gaze calmly, “Try it.” She invited. He leaped at her, at the same moment I leaped forward and pushed her out of the way so the man landed on me, the force of his impact carrying me off my feet. I felt my head hit the floor, the world blurred though I didn’t lose consciousness. “Fools and traitors! All of you!” the man said, standing over me. I tried to move to get him off, but the world spun around me as I moved so that I lay there helplessly. “Laurance!” Aphmau’s fearful cry sounded by Sasha, who was holding her back with regret in her eyes. “Let me go Sasha!” Aphmau exclaimed, fear tightening her voice. “No, it would be a fool’s move. A move he wants you to make. As soon as you move he’ll grab Laurance’s sword.” Sasha said, regret in her tone. “Very good, Sasha. It looks like you’re starting to-“ The man said but was interrupted. “Be quiet Gene! I’m just trying to save everyone’s lives.” Sasha snapped. The man, now identified as Gene, reached down and took my sword out of its sheath, “Why don’t I finish this traitor off? He never was impressive.” Gene said. Fear began to stir within me and I tried to struggle again, but the world began to spin again. “Pathetic, you should have joined us when you had the chance.” Gene said, raising the sword in preparation to kill me. “No!” Garroth yelled from where he had been standing silently. He leaped forward before anyone could move or speak, sword unsheathed. As Garroth hit him, Gene dropped the sword and stumbled backward. In another swift movement, Garroth pinned him to the wall. “Laurance!” Aphmau exclaimed, now released by Sasha, she ran over to me. “It’s going to be okay.” She said, though she couldn’t hide the fear in her voice or eyes. I lay there, gazing at her, love and fear intermixed in her eyes. She gazed back, and I felt her hand slip into mine. Suddenly, a white flash filled the air, when it was gone, nothing had changed. “Try to get up.” Aphmau urged, backing up a step. As I moved to a sitting position, the world didn’t spin, then I stood, still it stood still. Aphmau sighed in relief and everyone seemed to relax slightly except Gene. “Weak, all of you.” Gene said. “Be quiet!” Garroth shot back, his voice shaking slightly at what had just happened. “Then do it. Kill me. You know you want to.” Gene taunted him. I could tell Garroth’s anger was building, “Don’t do it, don’t give in. That will be what he wants you to do, he wants to break you.” I willed Garroth silently. “What’s wrong? What happened to that confidence in that battle?” Gene questioned. I could tell Garroth was forcing himself not to make the simple move of his blade and end Gene, “That’s it, don’t let him break you.” I thought. “Come on do it. End me, you know you want to. Everyone can see it.” Gene taunted. I could tell he was about to push Garroth over the edge, “Come on Garroth, you can do it.” I thought. “Come on! You know that you hate me, you know you’d love to kill me, to let my life be destroyed by your blade.” Gene pushed. Garroth tensed, I could feel the anger radiating off of him. “Don’t do it!” I pleaded with him silently. Garroth stood there, every muscle ready to attack and finish Gene off, but something held him back, something kept him from doing it. I saw Gene roll his eyes in irritation. I stepped forward towards Garroth and laid my hand on his shoulder. “No, I don’t need to kill you.” Garroth said, lowering his weapon and backing up. “Coward.” Gene muttered. “Will you be okay here Sasha? You can always leave, you know.” Aphmau said. “I’ll be fine, but thanks. I might visit some time.” Sasha replied with a small smile. Aphmau nodded, “Let’s go.” She said, then turned and left the room. I followed with Garroth close behind me.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I walked on the path through the woods, my thoughts tumbling. As I followed the path, it wound through the woods and to a clearing. There stood a Nether portal. Why was I here? Why had I come? What had lead me here? I couldn’t tell, there was something about it, something almost welcoming. Stepping forward, I placed my hands on it, though I had no intention on opening it. It felt almost right, like it had been waiting for me to come. “Why am I here?” I thought, I wanted to go back to Phoenix Drop, but the thought of leaving almost hurt. “What’s wrong with me?” I wondered, I had never liked the thought of the Nether, now it seemed I couldn’t bear to leave this portal. I stood there, lost in thought. “Laurance! There you are!” Aphmau’s voice broke into my thoughts after a long time of standing there. Turning, I didn’t see Aphmau. I looked around, where was she? Then I spotted Gene, he was standing on the path in front of me, sword drawn. Had he hurt her? He walked towards me, eyes burning with hate. Quickly, I drew my blade. Gene stopped momentarily, then continued approaching me. As he neared, I lashed out, catching his arm. Aphmau cried out in pain. I blinked, Gene had disappeared, in front of me now stood Aphmau, gazing at me in shock and fear. “What did I do?” I thought in horror. “It’s okay, it’s not that bad.” Aphmau said, worry glittering like stars in her gaze. I looked at her arm, there was a small cut, not deep and not big. “It’s already stopped bleeding.” She said. “I’m so sorry.” I said, still shocked that I’d attacked her. “It’s okay. But what happened?” she said, worry glowing softly in her gaze. “I thought I saw Gene.” I said, quickly explaining everything. “Gene’s still in the prison.” She said, panic edging her voice, I could easily guess why. “Interesting.” Sasha said, emerging from the shadows. “Sasha?!” Aphmau said, surprise in her voice. Sasha rolled her eyes, “Don’t you think I’d take interest in what’s going on?” she asked. “I didn’t think there was much that needed you to investigate.” Aphmau said, fear edging her voice. “I could tell something was different when he passed by earlier, so I followed him here.” Sasha explained. Aphmau nodded, “But what’s so interesting about this situation?” she asked. “I didn’t think it could happen anymore, let alone to Laurance.” Sasha said, ignoring Aphmau’s question and gazing at me, interest and worry bright in her gaze. “What are you even talking about?” Aphmau asked. Sasha sighed, “I guess you wouldn’t know about it. Leaving the Nether in a hope to escape being a Shadow Knight can be dangerous, especially to new Shadow Knights. After a while, the Nether starts calling, in a way, to the person. Shadow Knights call it the Calling. Some people seem immune to it. I thought Laurance was, until now.” Sasha said. Fear began to rise, I didn’t want to be a Shadow Knight! “And the thinking I was Gene?” Aphmau asked. “The Calling does it. It tricks the victim’s mind into thinking the person, a loved one usually, is an enemy, seeing Gene with a sword triggered his defensive reflexes. The Calling does it to try to win the person over, to make them become a Shadow Knight.” Sasha explained. Aphmau nodded, though all I felt was fear. What if I had hurt her worse or it happened again? “Is there any way to stop it?” Aphmau asked, concern in her voice. “I thought you defeating the Shadow Lord would end it, destroy it, the way it did Shadow Knights. It’s clear that it didn’t, or at least it didn’t stop it from calling to Laurance. Some, it just stops after a while. Others, it happens to and they go crazy and give in. Yet others, it’s permanent. I’ve heard legends about stopping it, though I’m not sure any are true.” Sasha said. My fear began to change to panic, I couldn’t bear it if I hurt Aphmau worse. “Panicking won’t help anything.” Aphmau said gently, stepping towards me, “Now, what do these legends say?” she asked Sasha. “They say many things, though there was one that seemed… different from the others. More real. It talks about love, loyalty, friendship, pretty much the exact opposite of what Shadow Knights are, creatures of hate. The only part that doesn’t seem real is the part that says it always works.” Sasha replied. “More detail?” Aphmau asked, and Sasha told us the actual legend. “A test to see where loyalties lie? Friendship and love deeper than the heart itself?” Aphmau asked, quoting pieces of the legend. “Only one has to be proven and the Calling, some say the Nether itself, will see that the person can’t be tricked like the Calling does.” Sasha said, “Test as in a battle, or something like that, but really big. Or a proving that they love, they have friendships, as important to them as life itself.” Sasha explained as if reciting something. Aphmau nodded, “Until something happens, or the Calling just gives up, what do we do?” she asked. “Keep him close, don’t give the Calling chances to call to him.” Sasha said, as if I had disappeared, “We should get back.” She continued. Aphmau nodded, and with that the three of us left the clearing, heading for Pheonix Drop.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I walked along, it was the first time in days I had been alone with my thoughts. Though with the peace of the forest path, uneasiness pressed down on me. I kept walking, trying to focus on the last few days. Then, with a feeling of dread, I realized that I had walked to that Nether portal. I stood there, refusing to go closer, though I couldn’t get away from it either. “Laurance!” Aphmau’s fearful call came from behind me. Turning, I saw Gene charging towards me, sword in hand. I hesitated, hand on my sword handle, was I imagining him again? Or was he real? As he neared, instinct took over and I drew my sword. Gene stopped. “Scared?” I wondered. On their own, and against my will, I charged, swinging out at him. I hit him hard across the chest, he collapsed on the ground dead. I blinked, it hadn’t been Gene, it was Aphmau! Anger at myself burned through me, spinning, I dropped my sword and ran. “Laurance!” Aphmau’s voice called to me, but I didn’t stop, didn’t look back, just ran, fearing that if I did, it would just be my imagination that she had called to me. I reached my destination, the Irene portal. Glancing back towards the path, I saw Garroth. “Laurance?” he said. “Yes? I asked, not looking at him but at the Irene portal. “What are you doing? Have you seen Aphmau?” he asked me in reply. How could I tell him what I’d done? “She told us about it.” Garroth said. “I-I thought she was Gene again. And I didn’t mean to but…” I broke off, unable to finish the sentence. Glancing back again, I saw Garroth’s eyes on the ground, he knew what I had meant. “I’m so sorry Aphmau.” I thought, without any more hesitation I touched the Irene portal, intent on trying to open it, I was either going to die trying to open it or imprison myself in the Irene dimension. It began to sparkle, “Go on!” I urged it silently. “No!” Aphmau’s yell came as something hit me on the side, knocking me away from the portal and to the ground. Looking around in confusion, I saw her laying a foot off though she quickly scrambled over to me. “Are you crazy? Do you want to kill yourself?” She asked, her voice unsteady with fear. Standing, I gazed at her. Her eyes were full of fear and love. “I’m so sorry.” I said, gaze falling to the ground. “Laurance, you didn’t mean to. You didn’t know it was me.” She said, fear still making her voice unsteady. “How did you know?” I said, looking up at her. She rolled her eyes, “Do you really think I would believe that you just attacked me?” she asked. “No.” I replied. “You really scared me back there.” She said, gesturing to the portal and the path. Sasha came through the trees, looking as if she had just come from down the path. She walked over, “You saw all that, didn’t you?” Aphmau asked. Sasha nodded. “And you didn’t stop me?” I challenged her. “If I did, do you think you’d be able to live life as calmly as everyone will now?” she asked, peace in her voice. “That made no sense.” I said. She rolled her eyes, “If I stopped you, do you think the Calling would still be calling you?” She asked. “It still –“ I began. “It’s not, I can tell.” Sasha interrupted. Joy made Aphmau’s eyes shine. Sasha walked off, heading for Phoenix Drop. “We better get back too. This has been eventful.” Aphmau said, though I couldn’t tell if she was being sarcastic or not. “Yeah, eventful.” I thought, I had only killed her!

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif"> Chapter 30: Aaron’s POV <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I stood in the tree house. Enjoying the rare peace and quiet. It had been that way all morning and the previous evening when Sasha had arrived to tell me, Katelyn, and Jeffory the good news. While I enjoyed the quiet, it had become odd to have such silence. Usually, there was something happening, even if it had nothing to do with me, usually there was some noise, some conversation happening. But today, everyone was enjoying the calm on their own time. Aphmau, Garroth and Laurance had wanted to talk about yesterday and went on a walk, Jeffory and Katelyn went on a walk without giving much information. I sighed, I enjoyed time to my thoughts but even at night when the others slept and I stayed awake there was some noise, this was silence, absolute silence. “Might as well take a walk.” I thought, heading down from the treehouse. No one noticed me as I left the gates. I walked down the path, not paying much attention to exactly where I was going. After a while, I stopped. I could hear voices in the near distance, not quite close enough to make out the words. “If they’re having a conversation where people can’t make out their words or see them, whoever it is must want to be alone.” I thought, though I still felt like I could check it out, the voices seeming unfamiliar. Slipping silently between the trees, I approached the voices. “Come on Zenix, they freed you and you left them?” a voice said. “Yes Vylad, I did. They were sure to take me prisoner anyway.” Another voice said in reply. “How do you know that? You haven’t watched Aphmau like I did, she’s a very kind, forgiving person.” The first voice, who I guessed to be Vylad, said. For once, my skill at being silent seemed to come in handy. “I tried to kill her Vylad! And I lived with her.” The other voice said, who appeared to be Zenix. “Yes, but you didn’t see them when you left, or when Aphmau had to tell Garroth. The time of the Shadow Lord, of Shadow Knights, is over. You can stay out here, an outcast that’s afraid of the world, but I can’t. My brother is alive, I just… I can’t keep living like this.” Vylad said. I heard footsteps coming from the direction of the path and tensed. I caught sight of Sasha, though she didn’t notice me. “I thought that sounded like you two.” She said. “Sasha, it’s been a long time.” Zenix said. “Hello to you too Zenix. I would ask you about where you’ve been for over 15 years, but I’ll ask later. Vylad, it’s good to see you. To be honest, I was looking forward to seeing your battle skills in that battle.” Sasha said, her voice calm and interested. “I could never fight my brother. Just like you could never fight Laurance, you’re forgetting Sasha, I know you more than you like to think.”  Vylad said. “You’ve got a point, and I honestly don’t blame you for running. All of us there were killed but me and Gene.” Sasha said. “Gene’s alive? How is he taking the change?” Zenix said, his voice sharp with surprise and interest. “Yes, he is. And he refuses to accept it. But where were you for over 15 years?” Sasha said. “He managed to get himself thrown in prison for 15 years, though he was traded throughout a couple villages. That is until Aphmau, Garroth, Laurance and three others rescued him. And you won’t believe what he did, when they hadn’t moved in a couple days, he left.” Vylad said before Zenix could speak. “I’d believe it. The reason they weren’t moving neither of you know. Aphmau was wounded to the point of near death in the battle.” Sasha said. “Who told her?” I wondered. “Now, are you two going to Pheonix Drop or not?” she asked. “Why not.” Zenix said. “Okay.” Vylad added. Quickly and silently, I slipped away and went to warn Aphmau. As I hurried towards Phoenix Drop, I ran into Aphmau, Garroth, and Laurance. “Aaron?” Aphmau said in surprise. “Yeah, and I have something to tell you.” I replied, before quickly telling her what I’d heard. “Wait, I thought-“ Aphmau broke off from what she was saying, “He must have slipped off when we were all distracted by my injury.” She said instead. “Whenever he slipped off, we better get back.” Garroth said. “Who is the other man?” I wondered. I kept pace with the group as we quickly made our way to Phoenix Drop. We had only just entered Phoenix Drop when we heard footsteps coming up the path. Turning around I saw Sasha and two others, no doubt the ones she had talked to in the forest.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 31: Vylad’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I stopped at Sasha’s side. Looking at the four people in front of me, I saw a man in a black jacket, Aphmau, Garroth, and Laurance. Returning my attention to Aphmau, who was most likely the one in charge here, I waited for her to speak. Once she was sure everyone’s focus was on her she began, “Sasha, I take it that you trust these two?” she asked. “Yes, the time of the Shadow Knights is over. They are good men.” Sasha replied. Aphmau nodded, glancing at Garroth, I saw shock in his light blue eyes. “I would like to talk to our guests alone.” Aphmau said. Sasha, Laurance, and the black jacketed man instantly walked away, “Could I stay here Aphmau?” Garroth asked. “Sure.” Aphmau replied. “Vylad, I thought you died?” Garroth said before Aphmau could speak. “I did.” I replied, not wanting to talk about this subject. A look of understanding came over Garroth’s eyes, “But why didn’t you come back?” He asked. “I just couldn’t.” I replied. Garroth nodded. "Vylad, aren’t you the one that led me to Phoenix Drop?” Aphmau asked me.  “Yes, I did.” I replied, I gazed at her intently, there was something about her that had always been different, about Garroth and Laurance too when I thought about it. “Why did you run away?” she asked. How did I answer that one? Instead, I changed the subject, “How is Levin?” I asked.  “He’s fine. Why?” Aphmau replied.  “You found him on your doorstep that morning but never knew how he got there.” I replied, “You never knew who took him from his mother to protect him.  I used to watch over Phoenix Drop from the shadows that is before…” My voice trailed, but I continued, “I saw you take in Levin as your own, though you never knew I watched over you.” I said, I paused, was I really going to tell her?  “Hey Mom.” A young man, looking much like Garroth, said as he walked over. “Hi Levin.” Aphmau said, smiling. “I can tell you’re busy right now, sorry for interrupting, but I want to talk to you later.” Levin said before walking off. Aphmau’s gaze followed him before turning back to me. “I was the one who took Levin from his mother and gave him to you all those years ago.” I said. Aphmau blinked, “I’m not sure what to say.” She said, I could see thankfulness, but also regret, in her eyes. “Hey! I’m here too you know!” Zenix broke in. Garroth smiled in amusement. I gazed at the pair, there was definitely something about them, something powerful. “I’ll ask them about it later.” I thought, turning my attention back to the conversation. “Look, no one can change who you are Zenix.” Aphmau said. “Why don’t you go look around Vylad?” Garroth suggested. I nodded and walked into the gates, I hadn’t gone far when I ran into Laurance. There was a slight look of distrust in his eyes. “In private, come on.” I said, leading him away into the shadows. As soon as we were out of sight, he began his questioning, “What are you doing here? How did you get away? I’m so sorry I never fulfilled my promise.” He asked. “It’s fine, there was nothing you could do against the Shadow Lord. I came here because I was tired of hiding, being the mouse hiding from the eagle, I’m tired of it. In that battle, they released the prisoners to fight, I turned tail and ran.” I said. He nodded. “You still remember that day, don’t you?” I asked, almost fearing his answer. “Yes, I do. But while I regret not being able to go with her, I’m glad she got away safely.” He said, the memory swirling in his gaze. I remembered the day clearly too, the regret I’d closed the portal with, the Shadow Knights, at the time my brethren, falling on me and Laurance, throwing me in prison. “It’s not your fault, everything worked itself out.” He said, though his gaze was far away as if remembering everything that had happened to him since that day. “Worse stuff has happened.” He said shrugging. I nodded, and just gazed at him. I could feel that power from him, just like from Garroth and Aphmau. “We better get back before Aphmau gets a chance to realize we’ve disappeared.” He said. “Protective?” I asked. “Yeah, and with as much that’s happened, she has every right to be.” He replied.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 32: Aphmau’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">As I walked out of the meeting with Levin, I had no idea what to do. If Meteli really had had Tu’la soldiers interrogating them about Zane recently, it was too close to home. “I wish we could do something. Take O’Khasis back, anything to show them that this is our home.” I thought, but just headed to my bed. As I lay down to sleep, I tried a new theory given to me by Garroth, as I let sleep surround me, I pictured O’Khasis.

<p class="MsoNormal">''<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family:"Helvetica",sans-serif">I found myself on a main path, ahead stood something that looked like a castle. Looking around, I saw many Tu’la and O’Khasis soldiers. Walking towards the castle, I slipped through the doors and stood before what looked like a main hall. In front of me was a throne, a man sat atop it, a crown on his head. Was he the king of Tu’la? “My King, Meteli hasn’t heard anything of Zane in over 15 years.” A Tu’la soldier said stepping forward. “What other records do we have on Zane? And if nothing else his older brother Garroth?” The King asked. “I heard that he was staying in a village called Phoenix Drop very shortly before he disappeared, his brother served as head guard there.” Another man said. The king nodded, “Send out another interrogation party to find Phoenix Drop, if Garroth or Zane Ro’maeve are there, bring them home.” He said. The soldier nodded and left. I tensed, I needed more information, but I was being pulled out of the vision. When I blinked, I was in the clearing with Lily in front of me. “Why do they want Garroth or Zane?” I asked before she could speak. “I probably should not answer but I will Irene, they want information on the Jury of Nine, other than Jeffory who is said to be dead, and Katelyn who disappeared with Garroth and Zane, the Jury is a mystery. They want them for something, I don’t know what.” She said. I nodded, though felt frustrated. Then I was back in my bed. ''

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I sat up in frustration, though somehow I knew that what I’d seen from O’Khasis happened yesterday. I saw the others stirring and waited slightly impatiently for them to wake before telling them what I’d found out. “Great, just what we need. More problems with Tu’la.” Katelyn muttered as I finished speaking. “What are we going to do?” Jeffory asked. I had thought about it before I told them, this had been the last straw for me. “I’m not standing for this anymore. I say we don’t hide who Garroth, or any of us, really are let them know the truth. If they want a fight, they can have it.” I said. “You mean tell them we’re the Divine Warriors?” Garroth asked. “No, don’t hide our identity. This is our home, not Tu’la’s. We shouldn’t be hiding like mice.” I replied, slightly amused. “She’s right.” Katelyn said, “After all we’ve been through, after everything we’ve seen. We shouldn’t hide, I’m with Aphmau.” She said. “I’m with Katelyn.” Jeffory said. “We’re one, we’re a team. Where you lead Aphmau, I’ll follow.” Laurance added. Garroth and Aaron nodded their agreement. “Then it’s settled, when Tu’la arrives, we stand as a team.” I said in conclusion. I had barely said the words when Dante came up the tree house. “Aphmau, there’s a bunch of Tu’la soldiers asking that we bring any information on Garroth or Zane forward, Levin sent me to find you.” Dante explained. I glanced at the five people gathered around me, my friends, no, my family, and nodded. “Let’s go.” I said, “If they want one of us, they’ll get all of us.” I added silently. As I walked down from the tree house, Levin gave me a fearful glance and pulled away from the group of Tu’la soldiers and greeted us out of earshot. “I don’t know what to do. I just-“ He began, but I silenced him. “It’s okay Levin.” I said reassuringly. Walking towards the soldiers, I kept a confident posture. “Hello, who is it you seek?” I said to the leading soldier. “Garroth or Zane Ro’maeve.” The soldier stated. “I may know where both of them are, but why should I help you?” I said. I knew that Laurance and Garroth were probably confused but I knew what I was doing. “Because we have the power to flatten this village.” The soldier said. “You think so? Your friends once tried that, it didn’t work well for them.” I said. “Unless you’ve got guards behind every bush and tree, this place doesn’t look like a challenge.” The soldier said, “Now, what is this information?” he said impatiently. I rolled my eyes, “I could easily take you out where you stood!” I thought, “Zane is dead,” I paused, a fierce fire lighting in my gaze, “and Garroth isn’t going anywhere.” I finished. “Where is he? We must take him back to O’Khasis.” The soldier said. “I’m right here.” Garroth said, stepping forward to be at my side. “We must take-“ The soldier began. “Didn’t you hear me? He’s not going anywhere.” I interrupted. “He is coming with us or else.” The soldier said, glaring at me. The first flames of irritation began to ignite, “Try me.” I said, glaring back at the soldier. “He’s coming, whether we have to force him to or not.” The soldier stated. As our argument continued, I felt my irritation becoming anger. “This is out home! Not yours!” I snapped. “We don’t want a home here! We just want Garroth temporarily.” The soldier flashed back. Without thinking, I reached out or my angelic form and found it instantly. “Aphmau calm down. I’ll be fine, I’ll be back soon, I promise.” Garroth’s voice barely broke through my anger as he stepped forward to the soldier. The soldier nodded, and turned away with Garroth at his side. As they began to walk away, Garroth glanced back at me, concern and love in his eyes. “No!” I yelled, running forward to grab Garroth’s hand, losing my angelic form as fear enveloped me. Memories pounding through my mind and adding fear. I’d nearly lost ones close to me too many times, I couldn’t do it again. “Aphmau, please.” Garroth said, sadness glistening in his gaze. “No.” I replied again, more firmly this time. Turning to rake a glare across the Tu’la soldiers, I took a deep breath, “If you want one of us, you have to go through us all.” I stated, turning my glare to the leader. “If you want to come sure. Just don’t get in the way.” The soldier said, and I spotted a slight shock in his gaze. A plan started to form in my mind. “Give us till tomorrow to prepare to depart.” I said, turning away with Garroth at my side.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 33: Katelyn’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I sat on the deck next to Jeffory, watching as the O’Khasis dock came into view. “This is one place I could have lived without seeing again.” I muttered. Jeffory nodded, “They weren’t all bad though.” He said. “I don’t care. This place wreaked havoc on to many lives.” I said irritably. As we landed, the soldiers were welcomed warmly by their fellow soldiers. I saw Aphmau glaring at them from the deck. With a flick of her arm she drew us near. “Everyone remember the plan? Why do they want the Jury of Nine anyway?” She said. We all nodded. “Personally, I don’t know much about the Jury. I left that to Zane.” Garroth said. “They don’t want information, they want location then information.” Aphmau said. Laurance looked as if he was going to say something but didn’t get the chance. “Come on, the king will see you.” The lead soldier said. We all let him lead us to a building that was all too familiar, the castle. We were led into it and I saw the throne, though instead of Garte sitting atop it, a new man, most likely the Tu’la King. “Is one of these Garroth or Zane?” He asked. “Yes my King, we have brought Garroth.” The lead soldier said. Another soldier pushed Garroth forward and was glared at by Aphmau, she muttered something to the soldier that I couldn’t hear. “You’ll like this one.” The soldier said, pushing Aphmau forward, “She’s feisty.” He said. Aphmau glared at him, hand on her blade. Garroth muttered something to her and she gave him an irritated glance. I heard murmurings among the O’Khasis guards in the room. I picked out a few. “Is that Jeffory?” one said. “It can’t be! He’s dead!” Another said. “Mind your own business!” I snapped at them silently. Looking around, I scanned the faces for anyone familiar. I saw an O’Khasis guard near the back lift his helm slightly, just enough for me to see beneath it. “Janus!” I thought. I elbowed Jeffory and glanced towards where Janus was standing. “My good King,” Janus said, “These people are no doubt tired, let me show them to a place where they can stay.” He suggested. The King nodded, “Go ahead Ramus.” He said. He nodded, and waded through the guards to us. “What are you up to now?” I wondered, glancing at Jeffory who was eyeing Janus closely. The six of us followed him, after a while he stopped at what seemed like a normal wall, though to those on the Jury, it was the secret door to the secret room where most of the Jury’s meetings were. I remembered one of the last times I’d been there and glanced to where Jeffory was as if making sure he was still there. “Keep this a secret?” Janus asked. “Whose side are you on, Janus?” I asked distrustfully. “Lady Katelyn the Fire Fist,” he said, using the name I hadn’t heard in what felt like forever, “Do you think I’d turn my back on O’Khasis?” he asked. “Maybe, if it meant being one of Zane’s lap dogs.” I said. “Zane? Zane is gone. I serve O’Khasis now.” He said, “Now, are you going to keep this a secret?” He asked. “Sure.” Aphmau said. Janus nodded and pushed the hidden button. Garroth stared at the passage in surprise but followed Janus down. As we reached the room, it was empty, only one person standing in it. She turned as we entered, “Janus! It’s secret! The only ones we can trust are Katelyn and Jeffory, who vowed their loyalty to Zane.” She snapped. “Relax Ivy. What are you going to do? Poison me? Besides, one of them is Garroth.” Janus said. “What loyalty? I turned my back on Zane long ago!” I said. “Who are the others?” Ivy asked. Garroth stepped forward, “They might as well be my family, Aphmau, Laurance, and Aaron.” He said, motioning to each one in turn. Ivy nodded, “I can guess what you’re doing here Garroth but the others?” she said. “What does Tu’la want?” Garroth asked, changing subject. “They want to know where the Jury is, though they don’t know we’re here.” Ivy said. I nodded, “Do they know about me and Jeffory?” I asked. “What do you think? You didn’t exactly try to hide who you were, I’m sure some O’Khasis guard recognized you two.” Ivy snapped. Jeffory snorted in amusement, “I remember that Ivy was the only one who could beat your temper.” He muttered to me. I snorted in amusement, he was right. “Well, why don’t we let these two in on our plan? The more people to help, the better.” Aphmau suggested. “Why not! Janus the Silver Death and Ivy the Venom Scythe! The best two people to trust!” I muttered, half sarcastically. When Janus and Ivy only nodded, Aphmau explained to them the plan and where we could put them. “You six were actually going to take on Tu’la?” Janus asked in surprise. “Why not? Wouldn’t O’Khasis soldiers help?” Aphmau asked, though I could see the fierce, unwavering fire of determination shining in her gaze. “Some, others will do what they think is best and side with power, with Tu’la.” Ivy said. Aphmau nodded and glanced at the five she’d arrived with. “When do we strike?” Janus asked, was that eagerness in his voice? “What for? Bloodshed or fighting for your home?” I wondered distrustfully. “It’s settled, you two are better off watching.” Aphmau said. “And let you six have all the fun? No way!” Janus said, with a nod from Ivy. “I don’t like this, they’re too buddy buddy, they never got along before.” I thought, glancing at Jeffory. Had the situation driven them closer? Or something else? “I’ll show you to where you can stay.” Janus said.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin:12pt0in;line-height:19.5pt;background-image:initial;background-attachment:initial;background-size:initial;background-origin:initial;background-clip:initial;background-position:initial;background-repeat:initial;"><span style="font-size:12pt;font-family:Helvetica,sans-serif;">---

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I waited in my place, silent and still. Waiting and listening for the signal. “This is our home, and we’ll show you just how much you are not welcome to be here.” I thought. “This isn’t your home! Now leave or else!” Aphmau’s voice reached my ear. I waited, blade drawn. “You think, even if you did try, that you could stand a chance against my army?” The Tu’la King challenged. “Again, try it. We aren’t going to hide like cowards anymore. Ru’aun will not take this anymore!” Aphmau said, her voice raising as if crying a battle cry. “Wait for it…” I told myself silently. “You stand no chance but if you really want to try it, by all means, go ahead.” The King said. I heard the sounds of battle break out and leaped from my hiding spot and attacked. I slashed at every soldier in reach. I saw the other fighters of Ru’aun, fighting like whirlwinds of destruction for their home. I saw people streaming through the castle doors, though to my surprise not all were O’Khasis and Tu’la soldiers. I spotted the forms of werewolves among them. I saw Aphmau stop as she too spotted the werewolves, her eyes locked with one of them and for moments neither moved. I spotted a soldier coming at Aphmau from behind. “Aphmau!” I yelled, running forward and pushing her out of the way, feeling the blade slice the air right behind me. We fell to the floor, though were instantly back on our feet. “We can’t win this battle!” I thought. Even with the added help of the fighters that had appeared from nowhere, including the werewolves, we were outnumbered. “Divine Warriors! Now!” Aphmau yelled. Pausing, I reflected on everything that had happened since finding out that I was a Divine Warrior, I focused on that power. After a few moments, a white flash blinded me, when it cleared, the Tu’la soldiers and all others fighting for Tu’la, were on the edges of the hall, trapped. “Leave, or we will force you.” Aphmau said. “We will leave. For now.” The King said, and led his troops away. Aphmau looked around until she found that werewolf again. And stood there, gaze locked with its.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:21.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">Chapter 34: Aphmau’s POV

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">I looked at the werewolf, our eyes locked together. “Is it really you Fenrir?” I wondered. Walking forward, I approached the werewolf. I saw many werewolves transforming into humans, while many others stayed as werewolves. “So, we meet again.” The werewolf said as I approached. “It seems that way, Fenrir.” I said calmly. The werewolf lost his werewolf form and became the prince I’d met when Michi had handed us over to the werewolves. “Your friend is here, isn’t he? Your real lover?” He asked. Glancing away, I saw Laurance and Garroth, I smiled. “Yes.” I said. “He’s important to you, I can tell.” Fenrir said, following my gaze to the two men. “You did well Garroth.” Laurance said. “You too, don’t give me all the credit.” Garroth said. I smiled, “Those two.” I thought. “Who’s the other one? Was he not lucky enough to get captured with you?” Fenrir asked, a joke in his voice. “Garroth, and in his own way, he was captured.” I replied, gazing at him and Laurance. “You’re lucky to have such good friends, they were willing to follow you into this battle.” Fenrir said. “I guess I am.” I said, “And to have Garroth and Laurance. I don’t know what I’d do without them.” I added silently. “We should get back, farewell Aphmau. Know that we are willing to assist you if needed.” Fenrir said, walking off to gather his warriors. Looking around, I spotted a pelt of white. “Lowell?” I called. The white wolf snapped around. “Aphmau!” He called. He ran over to me, happiness shimmering in his eyes. “It’s good to see you.” I said, smiling. He nodded, “It has been many years.” He said. “There is a reason for that. But that’s not important right now. How have you been? I was so worried when I found your village destroyed.” I said. “We’re all fine. Me and Kiva even have pups.” Lowell replied, a hint of pride in his voice as he announced his pups. “Congratulations.” I said. “Thank you, I will have to bring them to meet you or you will have to come meet them one day.” He said, “For now, we must return home.” He said. I nodded farewell and walked over to join Garroth and Laurance. “Old friends?” Laurance asked. I nodded and smiled. Looking around, I spotted other familiar faces as well as unfamiliar ones. Among them, I thought I spotted the thieves guild, though as I scanned their ranks I didn’t spot Amber. “Looking for someone?” A familiar voice spoke. Spinning around, I spotted Amber. “How’s the guild going?” I asked. “Well, I’m not in it anymore. I left.” She replied, “After being around you, I wasn’t the same person so I left the guild.” She continued. I nodded, “If you want you could come back to Phoenix Drop with us.” I suggested. She nodded, “Thanks.” She said. “Let’s go home!” I called out, and almost instantly the other Divine Warriors came over and we left for Phoenix Drop.

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:107%;font-family: "Helvetica",sans-serif">We hadn’t been heading back home long, not really the fast paced trips we’d had recently, but a slow, calm pace, when I noticed Laurance acting strangely. “Are you okay?” I asked, coming up to him. “I’m fine.” Laurance replied. I glanced at him again, though didn’t press him. Instead, I headed to the front of the deck and looked out ahead of us. As I gazed out over the ocean, I frequently glanced over my shoulder at Laurance. He would walk around the deck, stop and gaze over the ocean, and exchange a few words with Garroth. As I watched, I felt worry prick me, something was wrong. Glancing back yet again, I saw Laurance suddenly stop. On instinct, I ran over to him, Garroth joining me a moment later. “Laurance? Laurance what’s wrong?” I asked fearfully. He looked at me, his eyes full of pain. “Laurance? What’s wrong?” I repeated, feeling my fear beginning to turn to panic. I could tell that whatever this unseen problem was, it was making him unsteady. Garroth glanced at him, fear in his eyes. By now, everyone on the boat had gathered nearby. “Laurance?” I asked again, forcing myself to think straight around all of my fear and panic. Then Laurance’s legs gave out. Stepping forward quickly, I caught him, forcing my legs not to buckle under his weight. Quickly, Garroth stepped closer and took some of his weight. Carefully, we laid him down on the deck. “Laurance, what’s wrong?” I asked, panic making it hard to focus. He gazed at me, pain filling his eyes. “Laurance!” I cried in fear. I looked to Garroth, praying that he knew something. Garroth glanced at Laurance, “He was hurt in the battle.” Garroth said. I put one hand on Laurance’s chest, with the other I held onto his hand. After a few moments, there was the white flash I’d come to expect when using my powers. When it was gone, Laurance still lay on the deck, though there was no pain in his eyes. I gazed at him, unable to speak through my relief that he was alright. A tear of relief ran down my cheek. “Why didn’t you tell me?” I asked gently after many moments of silence. “I didn’t want you to exhaust yourself.” Laurance said, a slight guilt in his voice. “I would rather be exhausted then see you in that much pain.” I said. “I’m sorry Aphmau, I should have told you.” Garroth’s voice broke in. “It’s okay, I’m just glad Laurance is okay.” I said, standing and helping Laurance up. Joy ran through me as I saw him looking normal and unstressed.