User blog:Akasha1908/Requiem of Retribution: Part 8

Requiem of Retribution:
 * Chapter 1: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_1
 * Chapter 2: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_2
 * Chapter 3: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_3
 * Chapter 4: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_4
 * Chapter 5: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_5
 * Chapter 6: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_6
 * Chapter 7: http://ayakashi-ghost-guild.wikia.com/wiki/User_blog:Akasha1908/Requiem_of_Retribution:_Part_7
 * Chapter 8: This One.  Released 14 Oct 13

                                                                                                                                                                                                    Yokkun found his room, the door still wide open. Sitting on his bed was Epo. She’d changed clothes, but her hair was still damp from the rain.

             “What do you want?”   Yokkun asked. His tone was a bit harsher than he anticipated, but he refused to apologize for it.

             “Relax.”   She replied calmly, standing to her feet. “I just wanted make sure you were okay.”

Yokkun stepped into the room, looking around to make sure no one else was there. When he looked back at Epo, she’d closed some of the distance between them.

“You should go.”   Yokkun bit out. He walked swiftly to the large table by the fireplace, trying desperately to avoid her unwavering stare.

“I’m not going anywhere until you tell me why you’re leaving.”   Epo said.

“How do…”

“I overheard you talking to Empress Idol.”   She answered, cutting him off. “So that’s it? You’re just going to leave us here to die?”

<span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun placed the sword onto the table. “Whether I stay or not makes no difference.”   He replied. “I am one man, without magic. Against Rei and his army, I would never stand a chance. Besides, you have a Lady Joruri and Master Daze to help you fight. If two Grand Sorcerers can’t save you, then I don’t know what to tell you.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“But what about the prophecy?!”   Epo continued. “Even you can’t deny there is truth to it!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Why? Because Kazu is dead? Because you all believe I’m supposed take Rei’s life as payment for his, and reset the bloody balance?! Geez, will you listen to yourselves?! There is no way in hell I’d ever get close enough to land the final blow on Rei! He’s a sorcerer, Epo! And in case you forgot, he has the God's Stone!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“But you can’t be hurt by magic!”   Epo exclaimed. “If any of us has a chance at killing Rei, it’s you! Why can’t you see that? Surely you must realize how important you are?!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Being magic-less in this world isn’t exactly a good thing.”   Yokkun replied bitterly. “And it’s certainly never made me feel important.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Epo sighed heavily. She was so close to him now that there was no way he could escape her beautiful lavender eyes. She plucked a strand of wet hair off his face.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Against you, Rei’s newly gained power is useless. You are the only one who can stop him, Yokkun; you just have to step up. Be the hero I know you’re meant to be.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun stared at her lovely face, wishing he could be the man she so desperately wanted him to be. Epo, like Idol, believed he was capable of saving them all; facing down Rei and ending this war before it even started. But Yokkun didn’t believe them. He couldn’t. Even if his affliction made him invulnerable to magic, it didn’t make him invincible. He could still be killed. And from his experience, there were several non-magical ways to die…

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Epo cupped Yokkun’s cheek, placing her other hand over his heart. “You were born without magic for a reason.”   She said. “And what you thought was a curse all these years, is quite possibly our one chance at surviving this. Even without magic, you have the power to save us all. Will you walk away and do nothing?”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Yokkun covered her hands with his, removing them from his cheek and chest.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “I couldn’t even save Kazu.”   Yokkun replied. “And now you expect me to save the lives of thousands? I’m sorry, Epo, but I will not be responsible for even more lives. Not when I’ve proven myself incapable of protecting one.”   He briefly pressed her knuckles to his lips. “I can’t be you hero.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Epo’s eyes welled with tears, but to her credit, she didn’t cry. She pulled her hands out of his, and walked to the door. Before she left, she looked back at him.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Your brother would be so ashamed.”   She said, then turned and walked from the room.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             After Epo left, Yokkun requested a bath be brought in, hoping it would help him relax. It didn’t. He stepped out of the porcelain tub, drying himself off and slipping on a pair of sleeping pants. After picking over the food brought in from him, Yokkun walked over to the mirror.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             His hair had grown longer than he liked, but instead of cutting it, he slicked it back and out of his eyes. His beard had grown considerably, and the servant who brought in his bath had offered to help him shave. Yokkun had politely declined. There was only one person he trusted to put a blade to his throat…

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Yokkun had grown accustomed to the sharp pain that came with the sudden memory of his brother. Each time, it was like a hot knife being plunged deep into his chest. Yokkun waited for the pain to dissipate. It never really went away, only eased enough for him to carry on with his miserable existence.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             He lifted the razor to his face, his hand shaking. Yokkun looked at himself in the mirror again, but the man who stared back was a stranger. His face was gaunt; dark circles under his eyes. His beard obscured the lower half of his face, and his lips were cracked and dry. He frowned, shuttering to think what his hair looked like before he’d washed it. The image before him was so disturbing; Yokkun did the only thing he could do. He laughed. He couldn’t help it. He could picture the face Kazu would make if he ever saw him looking like this. He could even hear the words his little brother would say.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">A feeling of warmth and comfort descended upon Yokkun, and for the first time since his brother died, the pressure in his chest eased. He looked down at his hand and realized it had stopped shaking.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“You’re here, aren’t you?”   He whispered to the air in the room. “If it’s you, give me a sign.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">As expected, no answer or sign came. Yokkun sighed heavily, then continued shaving. When he finished, he washed his face and dried it with the cloth next to the water basin. He turned to get into the bed, but stopped short; his eyes nearly popping out of his skull.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The sword he’d laid on the table stood upright, balancing perfectly on its tip. Yokkun looked around to see if someone else was in the room. Perhaps someone was playing a trick on him, and using magic to hold up the sword. When he found no one else, he slowly walked towards the table. As soon as he got too close, the sword teetered for a few seconds, then collapsed to the floor.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun bent down to pick up the blade, but the hilt was scorching hot, and he was forced to drop it.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What in the world?”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun used the cloth in his other hand to pick up the sword, dropping it onto the table. He pulled up a chair, staring at it and waiting for it to move again. As he waited, the day’s events caught up with him, and drifted off into an uneasy sleep.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun opened his eyes, looking around in confusion. He was standing in the middle of the woods, unsure of how or when he gotten there. It appeared to be in the early hours of the morning, the moon still hanging in the sky.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Hello?”   Yokkun called.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">There was the rustling of leaves and the snapping of branches to his right. Yokkun eased towards the sounds, squinting through the foliage. Suddenly, Epo and small group of soldiers, burst through the trees. They were being chased, but by who or what, Yokkun couldn’t see.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The first arrow came out of nowhere, catching one of the soldiers in the back of the head. The man ran for a few more seconds, his body not yet realizing that the mind was dead. When he finally collapsed, the soldier behind him, made the mistake of slowing down to check on his fallen comrade. An arrow went straight through his neck before he even had the chance to stop.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">              Fear blossomed in Yokkun’s chest as he frantically searched for Epo. He heard her muffled screams and ran towards them. He caught sight of her jumping over a fallen log. Four of them remained, including her. She kept looking back, urging her troops on, and telling them they were close to safety and to keep moving. Suddenly, the only other female in the group, cried out in pain. The male behind and to her right, altered his course to help. When he finally reached her, he realized she’d somehow dislocated her knee. Immediately, he pulled her up, trying to get her over his shoulder. The arrow hit them both with such force, it went straight through the male, through the female, and then lodged itself in a tree.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             All that was left was Epo and one other male. Their paths converged, and although the male could clearly out run Epo, he stayed at her side. Yokkun was running right behind them; so close, yet so far. He mentally screamed at his legs to move faster, but it was no use.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Yokkun heard the swish of wind by his ear. He knew what is was and reached out to try and grab it. He just missed. The arrow flew straight at Epo’s back. It would have hit her dead center if the male at her side hadn’t shoved her out of the way. He took the arrow in his shoulder, most likely a flesh wound, but it was enough to make him lose his balance. He crashed forward, his head smashing into the trunk of a tree.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">              Epo screamed, running over to him. She was about 50 feet away from him when a silver-haired boy appeared in front of her. Yokkun recognized him instantly. It was the archer. The one who’d been with Rei in the throne room the day Kazu was killed. Yokkun ran towards him, ready to take him down, but the closer he got, the farther away he seemed to be. The archer took an arrow from the holder strapped to his back. Before Epo could react, he shoved the arrow deep into her throat and out the back of her neck. Blood bubbled from her mouth, and when he ripped the arrow back out again, she fell to the ground. Yokkun watched her body convulse as she drowned in her own blood. He bellowed with rage, but before his mind could even process his anger and grief, the scene changed and he was standing on a battlefield, the sun high in the sky…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">All around him soldiers were locked in battle. Some using magic, others using weapons forged from steal. It was utter chaos; the dead and dying littering the field. The earth was soaked with so much blood, that the ground beneath his feet was soft and moist.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Everything around him seemed to move unnaturally slow, and though he could hear people screaming and shouting; metal clashing against metal, the sounds were muffled. Almost as if he was watching the entire thing from inside a glass box. Yokkun moved through the chaos, his presence going completely unnoticed. He was unsure of what to do or where to go, until Tobi and Ana came into view.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">It was strange seeing the doctor with a sword in his hands, but Tobi fought with a skill Yokkun never would have guessed he had. Ana was at his side, her eyes glowing bright blue. She barely lifted a finger, but every enemy would dared approached her died. They were a deadly team, working in perfect unison with one another. At least until Yokkun saw a very familiar spear fly past him and straight into Tobi’s chest.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Ren-kun emerged from the crowd of fighting soldiers; racing on all fours straight at Ana. The Seer was momentarily distracted as she tried to save Tobi, but when she realized the Cat Sith was coming straight at her; she raised one of her blood covered hands to blast him. She never saw Rin-chan coming…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Rin-chan’s scythe cleaved Ana’s head right off her shoulders. Ren-kun skidded to a halt, smiling proudly at his sister. Rin-chan smiled back, then pulled the spear out of Tobi’s chest and tossed it to her brother. Without hesitation, she turned and disappeared back into the bloody chaos, Ren-kun close on her heels.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“No, no, no!”   Yokkun cried, dropping to his knees beside Tobi. He was still alive, but the gaping hole in his chest was gushing blood. Such a familiar scene…   “Hold on, Tobi!”   Yokkun shouted.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sadly, Tobi couldn’t hear or see him. And as Yokkun searched the bloody nightmare around him, he realized help wasn’t coming. Tobi was going to die in pain and alone. As the last bit of life drained from the doctor’s eyes, the scene around Yokkun changed once more…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">In front of him was Empress Idol. She was dressed like a common soldier, no armor or crown, but somehow managing to look regal all the same. She was shouting orders to her soldiers, and they followed her lead without hesitation. From what Yokkun could tell, they were trying to protect the main gate.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Idol was fighting viscously, her sword cleaving life and limb from every enemy soldier who dared step before her. Frost, not 100 feet from her side, was doing the same. Despite the never ending surge of enemy soldiers, Idol and her troops were winning. They’d just managed to fight back a wave of soldiers charging the gate, when there was an explosion in the middle of the battlefield. Bodies flew through the air; dozens of men and women dying instantly. When the dust cleared, a golden-haired beauty stood before them. Empress Sol…   The name was spoken softly, and carried on the wind, but Yokkun heard it loud and clear.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“So you’re the notorious empress.”   He whispered to himself.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sol was dressed in black from head toe, wearing an outfit similar to the one Rei wore when Yokkun faced him in the White Lotus throne room. If not for the golden crown pinned in her hair, Yokkun would never have guessed she was an empress. In her right hand she held a jeweled scepter, which was currently pointed at Idol.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sol released a burst of magic directly at the other empress, but at the last second, it was deflected by another blast. Sol’s fiery gaze narrowed on Frost. He smiled in response, pointing his sword at her in a silent challenge. She bowed mockingly in acceptance, beckoning him towards her.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Frost ran at her, using a combination of speed and magic to dodge her blasts, but the second before he collided with her, she disappeared. By the grace of the gods, he managed to spin around the moment she reappeared behind him, blocking her scepter before she had the chance to smash his skull in. Sol jumped back, spinning her weapon in hand. She hit some sort of trigger on the handle of the scepter, and two blades shot out from each end. She winked at Frost, then took up a defensive position, preparing for his next attack.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">He lunged at her again, trading blow for blow. Twice he’d almost killed her, but her mastery of teleportation as a battle technique made her difficult to pin down. It was like she was everywhere at once, anticipating his every move. It was only a matter of time before she got the upper hand. And that she did…   Frost missed calculated her next move and ended up with her blade between his ribcage. He cried out in pain, staggering to the side when she wrenched it out. It was all the opening Sol needed. Spinning her weapon, she sliced open his stomach, then his chest, and finally his throat.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Idol let out an agonized scream, charging at Sol. Their battle was fierce, and despite the difference in their skills, Idol managed to disarm her opponent. Sol raised her hand to blast Idol, but she hacked it off before Sol could take the shot. She shrieked in pain, clutching at the bloody stump. Idol temporarily sheathed her sword, and removed the knife at her belt. She pulled Sol close to her, whispering something into the woman’s ear before stabbing the knife deep into her chest. Idol released her, but Sol remained standing, wobbling unsteadily. Idol stepped backed, spitting on the ground at her enemy’s feet before returning to her men. If only she hadn’t turned her back.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Behind you!”   Yokkun screamed.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sol ripped the knife from her own chest, and with the last of her strength, plunged it into the side of Idol’s neck. A bloody smile spread across Sol’s face as both women sank to the ground...

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Once again, the scene around Yokkun changed and he found himself inside the city walls. The last of the western soldiers fought to defend what was left of the capital city. Yokkun searched the streets, trying to re-orient himself. That’s when he saw them; Fera locked in battle with a silver-haired woman.    

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sya… <span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">   The name popped into Yokkun’s mind, but from where, he had no idea. He looked back at the leather-clad woman, noticing she wore a patch over one of her eyes. Fortunately for her, it did little to impede her movements, so she was able to hold her own against Fera.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun studied them closely. There was an anger in Fera’s eyes that he’d had never seen before. He fought Sya without mercy, and each blow he dealt was meant to kill her. The woman, on the other hand, seemed to be enjoying herself, smiling as she and Fera danced their deadly waltz. It remained like that until she became careless, just barely missing one of Fera’s blows. Sya managed to dodge the blade, but the tip of it sliced deeply into her back. She spun around, her face twisted in rage. Fera raised his sword again, but before he could swing, the woman ripped off her eye patch.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The lid of her eye had been cut away, making the eyeball appear to protrude from the socket. The monstrosity was milky white, and where the pupil should have been, there was a swirling red light. Fera froze in place, unable to move or look away from Sya’s gaze. Yokkun looked from Fera to Sya, and then back again. It appeared the eye was a source of magic for the woman, and she was using it to control Fera.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sya remained still, the entirety of her energy completely focused on Fera. Though she appeared to have him under her spell, it was clear Fera was fighting back. The woman held her ground, sweat breaking out across her brow from the strain. It was becoming more and more obvious she was no match for Fera. He was too powerful for her to hold, and the longer she tried, the more energy she consumed. It wasn’t long before Fera was breaking free of the force holding him, and easing his way towards her. When he was close enough, Fera lifted the tip of his blade, ready to cut open her chest.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun knew the moment her spell was broken. She stumbled backwards as Fera moved in for the kill…   But in the split second it took for Fera to regain his composure and strike, his head was yanked back. A blade opened his throat, the bright red blood spraying Sya in the face. He dropped to his knees, clutching the wound and trying to keep the blood from pouring out.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Sya fell to the ground, rubbing the spot where Fera’s blade had nearly pierced her. “Took you long enough.”   She said, looking up at her savior.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">A withered old man stood over her, his face partially obscured by the hood he wore over his head. The bloody knife in his hand transformed into a large staff with a starburst emblem on the top. He reached out one of his skeletal hands and helped her to her feet.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun was in complete and utter shock. The hooded-man had come out of nowhere and killed one of the most powerful men Yokkun had ever met. As his mind reeled from what he’d just witnessed, he was once again transported to a different place…

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun found himself standing in the courtyard of the Western Palace. In front of him stood Lady Joruri; clearly in Grand Sorceress mode. The entirety of her power was so immense that ground beneath her buckled with the force of it. Even though Yokkun was nothing more than an invisible spectator, his self-preservation instinct kicked in, and he took several steps back.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun followed her gaze, realizing why Joruri was on edge. Rei stood before her, the God’s Stone around his neck. And if the darkening skies above were any indication, he too was gathering his powers. Rei’s eyes flashed the same amber color as the stone, and his body vibrated with force of the magic he held. He raised one of his hands and the sky opened; fire raining down from the heavens.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">In response, Joruri formed a massive whirlwind with one hand; the wind consuming the flames and swallowing them completely. With the other, she conjured a series of summoning circles, each one unleashing a flurry of dagger-like beams. Almost simultaneously, Rei countered by creating a shield to block the shards of light.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Their battle continued for what felt like hours, each sorcerer using every manner of offensive and defensive magic at their disposal. Towards the end, Lady Joruri struggled to maintain her power, her eyes shifting back and forth from white to green. Rei, on the other hand, barely looked out of breath.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Let’s not do this, Joruri!”   He shouted to her. “Surely, there’s been enough death and destruction for one day. Surrender your life and I will spare all those here. You have my word.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Your word is meaningless!”   Joruri shouted back. “You know nothing of mercy or the value of life. I will never surrender! I will die before I let you subject these people to your tyranny!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Then so be it.”   Rei replied. “But remember, their blood is on your hands.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Rei took a deep breath, gathering his power and slamming a fist to the ground. The earth split open, hundreds of cracks racing in every direction. Yokkun could see the panic in Joruri’s eyes as the ground opened, devouring people and structures with frightening speed. Screams of terror filled the air as those who’d taken refuge in the city desperately tried to escape. They would never make it; the fissures were spreading too rapidly. The whole city would be destroyed and no one would survive…

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<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">In the blink on an eye, Yokkun found himself standing outside his room at the Western Palace. His heart was racing, and he swore he could taste dirt in his mouth. He took a few calming breaths, looking around to make sure he was alone in the hallway.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">He ran a hand through his hair, debating on whether or not he should open the door in front of him. He couldn’t tell if he was awake or dreaming. If he was still trapped in this horrible vision, then he wasn’t entirely sure he wanted to see what was behind the door.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Making up his mind, he took a deep breath and turned the knob. Yokkun cautiously walked in, slowing scanning the dark room. A fire ignited in the fireplace, bathing the room in a soft golden light. Yokkun froze, his mouth falling open. Before him stood Kazu, dressed in the same clothes he’d been buried in. Though his face was partially hidden by shadows, Yokkun knew it was him immediately. He started to run towards him, but Kazu held up his hand and shook his head.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Ka, what’s wrong? It’s me.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun tried to take a step forward, but no matter what he did, he couldn’t get any closer to his brother.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Ka, what is this? Why can’t I…”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Kazu placed a finger to his lips, cutting off Yokkun’s words. Instead of answering, he pointed to the sword on the table. Once again, the sword balanced on its tip, but as Yokkun drew closer, words appeared on the blade.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The sword is forged, the sacrifice made 

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">The shield is ready, but remains afraid 

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">In your fear and doubt, you are not alone 

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent: 0.5in;"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">But to save their lives, you must destroy the stone 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             By now you know the price for balance is death 

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">             To remake history, you must breathe your last breath           

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun finished reading the message, easing into one of the chairs. He ran a hand down his face. “Some kind of hero I am.”   Yokkun mumbled, cursing under his breath. He looked up to find Kazu standing next to him. His little brother smiled down at him, and without opening his mouth, he whispered two words.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Wake up.” 

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun shot up from his seat, the chair clattering to the floor. His eyes immediately moved to the sword lying on the table. The blade glowed red hot, the words he’d just read fading as it cooled. Yokkun rubbed his temples; his head throbbing as images from his vision replayed in his mind.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“You know, you could’ve just told me what the fuck you needed me to do!”   Yokkun shouted to the empty room. “It would have been a lot easier!”   Yokkun search the drawers, finding a shirt and pulling it over his head. “And the next time you want to take my brother’s form to deliver a message, at least have the decency to get the eye color right! They’re blue, not brown.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun stormed out of the room, his mind buzzing with the implications of his last vision. He wasn’t an idiot, and for the most part he knew what he had to do; starting with staying in this god-forsaken place…

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<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">              Idol practically flew into Lady Joruri’s arms when she walked into war room. When Master Daze explained that Lady Joruri and Lord Fera were not only alive, but en route to the Western Empire, Idol nearly collapsed with relief.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Lady Joruri!”   Idol exclaimed. “Words cannot describe how good it is to see you! And you as well, Lord Fera!”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Joruri’s consort nodded his head but said nothing. He was eyeing his wife warily, and although he appeared to be listening, it was his wife who had his full attention. Something must have happened between them, but Idol couldn’t tell if it was good or bad.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “It is good to see you as well, Empress Idol.”   Joruri replied. “I’m glad we were able to make it to you all in time.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Joruri embraced Idol tightly once more, then did the same with Master Frost. Fera followed, bowing deeply in gratitude towards Idol, and then clasping hands firmly with Frost. Lady Joruri moved to where Master Daze sat. There was a deep sadness in her eyes, and as she whispered to old man, Idol could see the tears sliding down his wrinkled cheeks. Joruri gently kissed Master Daze on the forehead, then moved to take her seat. Lord Fera also stopped to speak to Master Daze. Although very few words were exchanged, a look of understanding passed between the two men.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             The only people in attendance at this particular meeting were Lady Joruri, Lord Fera, Ana, Master Daze (with Pochi), Epo, Tobi, Idol and Frost. Idol had wanted to call a full war council meeting, but it was quite late in the evening, and Lady Joruri insisted they keep the gathering small.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Fera and I have been brought up to speed on what happened at the White Lotus Headquarters.”   Joruri said, addressing the room. “Ana and Tobi were kind enough to explain what transpired there, and the good doctor was able to explain what has happened since. First, I would like to express mine and Fera’s gratitude to all of you. If it weren’t for your efforts, I fear our losses would have been far worse. Pochi, please pass on my thanks to your king as well.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Of course.”   The tiny fairy said with a bow. “King Oberon will be pleased to know you are well.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Joruri bowed her head, then continued. “Second, I would like to apologize for not being here sooner. I was… detained in the Eastern Empire, but now that I am here, please know that you have the full weight of the White Lotus at your disposal.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Thank you.”   Idol replied, unable to suppress her smile. She grasped Frost’s hand tightly, the two exchanging looks of relief.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “From what Epo tells me,” Fera cut in. “Every troop under the command of the White Lotus has arrived and is ready for battle. Empress, I’m sure your troops are confused at where these additional reinforcements have come from. Though I doubt anyone will voice complaints, explanation of the White Lotus’ existence should be left until after our enemy is defeated.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Thus far, we have succeeded in keeping the secret of the White Lotus safe.”   Idol replied. “When the announcement of your arrival was made, we referred to Lady Joruri as Empress Sol’s former advisor. Lord Fera, we named you as one of Sol’s former generals. When the full war council is convened, we will tell them that you two defected and have come here to offer your assistance.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “We can also circulate a rumor that the White Lotus troops are actually former soldiers of the Eastern Empire.”   Master Daze suggested. “Soldiers loyal to Lady Joruri and their general, Lord Fera.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“That’s a good idea.”   Idol said. “But to be honest, we’re just happy to have the help. I doubt you’ll hear any complaints from anyone.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“You should also know we have enlisted the help of Emperor Dark to the South.”   Frost added. “As we speak, he marches his army to aid us.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Fera and Joruri exchanged a grave look. “I’m afraid Dark will not be able to help us.”   Joruri replied solemnly.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Why not?”   Idol asked anxiously. “He sent word of his impending arrival not three days ago.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Because he is dead.”   Fera answered, his voice calm and even. “As are his men. All forty thousand of them.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Impossible.”   Frost breathed.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’m afraid it’s true.”   Joruri continued. “Before Fera and I came here. We went to see both Emperors Dark and Light.”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Light refused to offer aid.”   Fera interjected. “The coward that he is.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Joruri gave Fera a warning look. “Emperor Light is doing what he thinks is best for his people. He wants to keep them alive and safe. There is nothing wrong with that.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Master Daze snorted. “He’s a fool if he thinks Sol won’t turn her armies on him when this is all over.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Enough.”   Joruri said. “It doesn’t matter. We are on our own, so we need to make plans to use the resources we have to defeat Sol.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “And let’s not forget Rei and the Black Lotus are with her.”   Master Daze added.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “But I don’t understand.”   Epo argued. “How is an entire army wiped out?”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Rei.”   Ana said, speaking for the first time. “One of the Seers had a vision of him testing his power. There was fire and death, but since we weren’t sure when and where he would strike, we had no way of stopping it. It’s part of the reason we’ve been trying to keep outside communications secret. We wanted to protect our allies.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Well, your efforts were in vain.”   Fera replied matter-of-factly. “Rei knew about the Southern Army marching to our aid. He completely demolished them. The only thing left is a smoking crater in the earth.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “All those people gone.”   Tobi whispered.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “We will mourn their sacrifice when this is all over.”   Joruri said firmly. “Right now we need to work out a plan to defeat Rei and Sol.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “We have a preliminary plan in place.”   Epo replied, speaking mainly to Fera. Now that he was there, he would mostly like take over command.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Epo gestured for everyone to move towards a massive table with a map of the entire Western Territory carved into it.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “This is the Western Palace.”   Epo said, pointing to their location on the map. “From what my scouts tell me, Sol’s army is here.”   She pointed to a spot roughly a hundred or so miles east of the Western border. “We had concerns that Rei would lead a separate army from a different location, but reports confirm he marches with Sol.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “A bit overconfident.”   Fera replied. “Rei must think his power will compensate for any advantage gained by separate attacks.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Well, at least we have that in our favor.”   Frost said.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “And every little bit counts.”   Idol added.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Epo nodded, then continued her explanation. “I plan to lead a small group along the northern side of the capital. We’re going to try and slip into their camp and see if we can get the jump on Rei. If we can get the God’s Stone back before this war starts, we can cripple their offense. There is a forest here, we’ll use the trees as cover, and infiltrate the camp at night.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Fera examined the area Epo indicated, then nodded his approval.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Their goal is obviously the capital.”   Epo said. “The surrounding towns have been evacuated, and those unable to travel, will take refuge within the palace. We’ve established three lines of defense. The first will be about 20 miles from the capital city. Ana and Tobi have agreed to fight in the vanguard. Should the situation change and we fail to defeat them there, they are instructed to report back.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “The second line of defense will be at the gate itself. Originally, we planned to have Master Frost and his troops hold it alone, and have the empress hold the third line of defense at the palace itself. But now that you and Lady Joruri are here, I think Empress Idol and Master Frost should hold the gate together, while you two protect the palace and the refugees within.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Agreed.”   Fera replied. “Tobi, should things change at your position, you will report to Idol and Frost. Ana, you will report to Jo and I.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Tobi and Ana nodded in unison.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “How many troops do we have under our command?”   Fera asked.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “About 60,000.”   Epo replied. “We were counting on Emperor Dark’s army to join us. Without them, we’re out numbered 2 to 1.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Not impossible odds.”   Fera said. “We’ll just have to fight smarter than them. Put our magic users at strategically smart locations, and place the bulk of our forces where they will do the most damage.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Fera’s right.”   Joruri said. “We can do this. We can beat them.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “If winning is part of the agenda, then I suggest you rethink your plan.”   All eyes turned to find Yokkun standing in the doorway, leaning against the frame.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Excuse me?”   Frost said, bearing down on Yokkun. “Like any of us would take advice from a coward like you!”

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">Yokkun straightened, his face flushing in anger.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“Frost, stop!”   Master Daze ordered, grabbing his friend’s arm.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What are you doing here, Yokkun?”   Joruri asked.

<p class="MsoNormal" style="text-indent:.5in"><span style="font-size:12.0pt; line-height:115%;font-family:"Times New Roman","serif"">“What? No hello?”   Yokkun smirked. “It’s the least you can do after abandoning us all to die.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Watch it, boy.”   Fera gritted out.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Stand down, Fera.”   Joruri said, stepping towards Yokkun. “I’m so sorry about your brother.”   She continued. “Kazu was a good man and he didn’t deserve to die the way he did. I want you to know that you are absolutely right. I should have been there to stop Rei. Leaving that day was the biggest mistake of my life, and because of my careless actions, lives were lost needlessly. But I tell you now; I will not make that mistake again. I will defend you all until the bitter end.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             Yokkun and Joruri stared at one another, a silent exchange taking place between them.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “That last part I believe.”   Yokkun replied, his tone softening. “What’s done is done.”   He added hastily. “And right now, we have a war to win.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “But I thought you were leaving.”   Epo said, her eyes filling with hope.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Yeah, so did I.”   Yokkun replied wearily. “But it seems someone has different plans for me.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “What do you mean?”   Master Daze asked worriedly.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “I’ll explain everything later, but right now, we need to make some serious adjustments to that plan of yours.”

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “And why is that?”   Fera asked.

<p class="MsoNormal"><span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%;font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"">             “Because if we don’t, all of you are going to die.”

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