Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 9

Chapter 9: Elysia Starnova

            Minutes later, Jaden stepped into a Mannihilator city for the first time. Awe struck her at how different the living conditions the Mannihilators were going through. They live mainly in large, concrete homes which are unlike the tall buildings she was used to seeing back at her home planet. The buildings were smaller, broader and lacking any variety; most of them look the same. The entire city was walled off by a tall concrete wall, forming a perimeter around it. Plant life was littered all over the place, almost as if the Mannihilators refuse to remove them. Qurrentine is heavily urbanized and seeing a large number of plants in the same spot was a rare sight, hence Jaden was unused to the presence of plants in her path.

            All Mannihilators within the city, men, women and children, gave a suspicious glare at Jaden. Her eye glow, which partially penetrated through her blindfold, was the only thing that revealed her to be a Magic user, and as she expected, not all Mannihilators are welcoming of Magic users. Her city clothes, which contrasted with the Mannihilators’ primitive and militaristic clothing, gave away her identity as a non-Mannihilator. Her heart beats faster as she felt worried by the glares and she silently hoped that no violence would happen.

            Reed, on the other hand, walked through the city as if he has been there a million times. He maintained a one-sided smirk and occasionally waved at Mannihilator women and children. His behavior heavily contrasted Jaden. Vader, now without his disguise, was given an equal amount of resentment as Jaden. Though she had no idea why VX Synthetics are not welcomed by Mannihilators, she began to assume that Vader’s race is mistrusted by all.

            Despite all the hostility, Jaden was at least able to smile when she came across a huge statue not far from the city’s entrance. The statue was that of a woman’s and as she observed the features, the woman was none other than Ariel Silver; the human whom the Mannihilators worship and one of Jaden’s biggest inspirations in becoming an Energy Bladesman.

            Though the statue was made of stone and hence, grey, she could easily imagine the armor, hair and eyes to be golden and her sword, shield and cloak to be red.  Not to mention the expressionless look on Ariel’s face; she was especially known for being unable to feel emotions from birth. As Setzer, her twin brother, would put it: She’s like a robot. Memories of the stories of Ariel came to her mind, along with memories of her mother. Before she delved deep into her thoughts, however, she remembered that she must remained focused and hence, discarded all her thoughts of her mother.

            Nora brought the party to a large concrete building in the heart of the city. Inside, she guided them up a few flights of stairs, reaching the tallest floor of the building. The floor, which comprised of one room, had several heavily armored Mannihilators armed with rifles. The group passed by them without any hostility, though they gave the suspicious glare at Jaden, Reed and Vader. Nora then stopped before a man wearing heavy armor unique amongst the Mannihilators in that room. His was golden in color in comparison to the typical silverfish grey armor. The golden armor almost reminded Jaden of Ariel, who wore a shiny golden armor.

            “Greetings Lord Nightfall.” Nora bowed before the man along with the rest of the Mannihilators who guided the group. Jaden, Reed and Vader were at a disadvantage and hence, they did not bow with them.

            “Rise Ser Nora. What brings you here? And who are these three? A Magic user? An outsider? And, a VX Synthetic?”

            “My lord, before you do anything, let me explain. This woman here, she defeated Dark Viper in a duel. I can easily sense the scars of the duel within her.”

            “Sense?” Jaden asked herself. “I thought Mannihilators are anti-Magic.”

            “Yes, Mannihilators are anti-Magic.” Nora said out of the blue, almost as if she read Jaden’s mind. “But, I am an Ohmni Knight. I am a user of Omega Energies, which are remains of Magical Energies if they are destroyed. Omega Energies allows me to cast anti-Magic spells but naturally, I have access to spells which are universal amongst all Magic users regardless of the type of Energies I use.”

            “Anyway, this woman, Jaden Highland her name is, survived an encounter with Dark Viper and now, she’s on a mission to eliminate him and Iblisan.”

            Lord Nightfall stared at Nora for a while before turning his attention to Jaden. He then asked, “Well then, what brings you here? Aren’t you supposed to be heading straight to Dissidia and facing Iblisan?”

            “The three of us are not enough to take on both Iblisan and Dark Viper, along with his army of cultists. We come to seek assistance from your people good Lord.”

            “No, I disapprove.”

            “What? My Lord, why not?”

            “Do you not see the glow in her eyes Ser Nora? She’s suffering from Magical Overflow and thus, under her Magical Energy’s influence. Iblisan’s indirectly controlling her. You’re an Ohmni Knight. You should know better than this.”

            “Do not let my eyes fool you good Lord. My mind is my own. Besides, why would Iblisan want to see two of his enemies uniting instead of fighting each other?”

            “The last time I let an outsider Magic user lead a battalion, he led them to a trap and slaughtered them all! He fell under Iblisan’s sway because that bastard can’t keep his feelings under control. He suffered Magical Overflow and killed my people. I am not going to make the same mistake.”

            “My Lord, I am confident that Jaden will not befall the same fate as that Salvager. Besides, she survived a duel with Dark Viper. Is that not enough to convince you?”

            “Ser Nora, for years you have been trying to get outside help and I am starting to feel that you pushing it too far.”

            “And for years, you have been thinking about that incident. I feel that it is time to let it go. We need to unite. Iblisan is too powerful for just one army to defeat. You better remember that he is not a mortal. He is a Fallen Angel.”

            Lord Nightfall fell silent, as if he thinking about Nora’s words. He looked down at Jaden, his frown slowly diminishing. Jaden, in an attempt to convince Lord Nightfall that a union is necessary, took off her blindfold. Despite the glow, it barely blinded him and he continued to stare at her eyes.

            “Look at me straight in the eyes Nightfall, and listen to what I am saying. I lost my entire family and most of my friends to Dark Viper. He slaughtered them all in one fell swoop and I am not foolish enough to start a war with your people when I already have an enemy. We are losing people to him and Iblisan and here I am, taking a stand to end his reign instead of cowering inside a room. I need you to trust me on this.”

            Jaden’s eye glow intensified as she spoke, her emotions amplifying her Magical Energies and showing Nightfall the seriousness of her words. Tears rolled down her cheeks despite the heat emitting from her glow and Vader, who somehow noticed her sadness, placed his metallic hand on her shoulder.

            “Jaden, are you alright?”

            “Vader? You…cared for her feelings? Aren’t you a robot?”

            “I do not expect you to understand Reed.”

            “Try me. Besides, I care for her too you know.”

            “I’m fine you guys. I just…missed my family. And…thank you Vader.”

            Nightfall continued staring at her, undisturbed by the light from her eye glow. He thought hard about her words. He watched as Vader placed his hand on Jaden’s shoulder and said in his mind, “That VX Synthetic actually cared for her feelings. That'a unusual but if it truly does care for her, she might be different from the bastardly Magic user last time.”

            “My Lord, Dark Viper and Iblisan, as powerful as they are, can still be defeated. Ariel defeated Iblisan many years ago and Jaden defeated Dark Viper just recently. But, we must unite with her if we are to have any hope in defeating them.”

            “Well…”

            Suddenly, a loud explosion, along with dying screams, was heard coming from behind. A thick, brown smoke was seen through the window, rising up from the ground. Everyone in the room turned to the explosion, startled and Nightfall ran towards the window. He looked down and saw a crater on the ground along with several Mannihilators lying on the ground surrounding the crater. As one Mannihilator went to help them, a gunshot was heard and blood spurted from a hole in his head. He fell to the ground, dead and more gunfire was heard, coming from the forest.

            “We are under attack!” a Mannihilator shouted and all armed Mannihilators returned fire.

            “Nora, we’re under attack, by Iblisan’s cultist I assume. Get down there with your squad and assist them. Keep an eye out for Magic users. The rest of you, help Nora.”

            “Yes my Lord!”

            “Wait, what about the three of us?”

            “This is your chance to prove to me that you are not Iblisan’s pawn Jaden. You three will assist us in repelling the enemy. I will stay up here and man the sentry drones.”

            Anxious to fight alongside Mannihilators, Jaden wore back her blindfold, unsheathed her sword, summoned its blue glow and ran down the flights of stairs while Reed and Vader tailed her.

            Down at the battlefield, Mannihilators, armed with rifles, were firing at cultists wearing a familiar armor worn by the guards whom guarded Qurrentine’s docks. Men and women were dying while children were seeking shelter. Nora was shouting out orders to some of the Mannihilator, asking some of them to run to a hangar found behind Nightfall’s headquarters. Mannihilator Bombers flew out of the hangar and began to bombard the massive cultist army. She then ran to a concrete building, evading stray bullets with help from her Energies, and unlocked the building’s gate. As she opened it, lions poured out of the building and ran straight to the cultists, attacking them one by one. With her sword and shield in her hands, she joined the battle at last.

            “They kept lions as war pets?” Jaden asked herself.

            “Lions are natives of the tropical side of Mannihilate and …”

            “God damn it! Vader, we don’t need a lesson right now! We need to deal with the cultists! Jaden, you have a plan?”

            A projectile was seen flying from outside the city, landing and exploding close enough to Jaden for her to began thinking about eliminating the enemy artillery. As she looked around, she spotted a sniper rifle in the hands of a fallen Mannihilator.

            “Anyone can snipe?”

            “I can.”

            Vader ran to the sniper rifle Jaden spotted and asked, “What are your orders?”

            “Get to a high ground and snipe the artillery from there. If it is a robot, destroy its Combat Inhibitor to lose its Identify Friend/Foe. If not, kill the cultist operating it.”

            Vader nodded its head and went to a sniping position. Jaden turned to Reed and gave him his job.

            “Reed, stay here and assist the Mannihilators as best you can. I will cut my way through the cultists and kill their leader.”

            “What? Jaden, you will get yourself killed! I am not ready to lose you.”

            “Well, if I die, at least Nightfall will see the sincerity of my proposition. And don’t worry Reed. I’ve survived Dark Viper. Remember that.”

            Though reluctant, Reed nodded and he made a beeline for the battlefield. Suddenly, something grabbed Jaden’s neck and pulled her backwards, suffocating her in the process. Jaden fell to the ground while Reed turned around and saw a long, red vine wrapped around her neck. His eyes traced the vine’s source to a figure at the top of Nightfall’s headquarters. As the figure pulled Jaden closer with the vine, Reed fired at the figure. Before he could do any damage, however, an artillery projectile landed near him, forcing him into the ground. As he recovered, he saw as the vine lifted her to the side of the building and left her suspended. Jaden struggled as the vine squeezed her neck and Reed frantically looked around, hoping to find something that might save her life. He then saw a knife in the hands of a fallen Mannihilator. He snatched it and immediately threw it at the vine.

            Before the knife hits the vine, the figure dismissed it, releasing Jaden. She dropped to the ground and coughed as she regained her breath. Just as Reed was about to run to help her, another artillery projectile landed right in front of him, sending him to the ground again. He then shouted, “Vader! Will you please destroy the artillery?”

            Jaden looked up to see Reed, recovering slowly from the explosion. As she began to stand up, she could sense Dark Energies coming from above and she rolled away in time to avoid a Dark Lightning spell coming from the top of the headquarters. She looked up to see a figure on top of the building and assumed that that was the person who attempted to strangle her with a Dark Vine spell. The figure jumped off the top of the building and landed on the ground, seemingly unhurt from jumping such a height.

            The sunlight revealed the figure to be a woman. Her huge purple eyes met with Jaden’s and her long, blonde hair flowed with the wind. Held in her gloved right hand was a katana, glowing bright with red Dark Energies. She held the sword in a Reverse Grip fighting style, mirroring that of Jaden’s and Dark Viper’s. Despite the fact that she was obviously an Energy Bladesman, she was wearing a black dress, breaking the most important rule of the Warrior’s Code.

            “I’ve been looking for you Jaden. My dad ordered me to kill you. You probably recognized him as…Dark Viper.” the woman said.

            Upon hearing Dark Viper’s name, Jaden’s anger rose and she darted at the woman. She made a horizontal slash but the woman dodged it with ease. She rolled to Jaden’s back and briefly electrocuted her with Dark Lightning. Resisting the pain, Jaden turned swiftly to slash her but once again, the woman dodged it, jumping backwards. The woman then rushed in to slash Jaden multiple times but she parried all the strikes. As Jaden began to lose her strength, the woman punched her hard in the face. Jaden fell to the ground and the woman was prepared to finish her off.

            However, several bullets flew past her and the woman turned to see Reed, shooting at her. With help from her Dark Energies, she dodged all of Reed’s frenzied shots and was about to cut down Reed. He rolled out of the way and began shooting at her again. The woman evaded all the bullets and was about to kill Reed with one slash. Jaden, not about to lose her friend, sprinted to Reed’s rescue and tackled the woman. As they both recovered, Reed told Jaden everything he knew about that woman.

            “Jaden, I know this woman. Her name’s Elysia…Elysia Starnova. She’s Dark Viper’s daughter and favorite student. She learns directly from Viper himself and fights almost the same way as him. Do not let her dress fool you; she’s fought and killed many people, almost as much as her father. Her spells are especially powerful and many even say that she’s more powerful than her father.”

            “How’d you know all that?”

            “Um…I just know alright? Now, can we eliminate this bitch together?”

            Reed opened fired at Elysia but she quickly deflected all his shots with her katana. She jumped high up and dived at him to slash him but Jaden jumped up and blocked her slash. They exchanged several blows midair before landing both their feet on the ground. Reed, who was right behind Elysia, was about to hit her with his rifle’s butt but before he could, Elysia pushed him away with what seemed to be Kinetic Energies. Jaden, awed at the sight, was briefly distracted and Elysia capitalized.

            She sent out three Dark Vines from her left fingers. It wrapped around Jaden, pinning her arms down and rendering her helpless. As Jaden struggled, Elysia spotted a Mannihilator Bomber taking off. Taking advantage, Elysia extended her vines towards the Bomber and it rammed Jaden. The Bomber was barely damaged by it but Jaden went limp. She growled softly with pain and to add insult to injury, Elysia brought her vines up and slammed Jaden onto the ground. She dismissed her vines while Jaden lay on the ground in pain.

            Elysia, as cocky as ever, trudged towards Jaden, thinking that the damage done was enough to render her defenseless. She stood by Jaden’s side, looking down upon her. As Jaden looked at her, Elysia said, “My father killed your mother. And now, I kill you.”

            Elysia brought her sword up, reminiscing the way Viper killed Jaden’s mother, Glacier. This was enough to further intensify Jaden’s anger. Her blindfold barely covered her eye glow as it slowly intensified. Before she could kill Jaden, however, bullets flew past her and she turned to see Reed shooting at her. Using her Kinetic Energies, she knocked him down again. She turned back to Jaden but instead of seeing Jaden limp on the ground, Jaden extended her left hand at her, surging with red, electrical Dark Energies. Releasing the Dark Lightning spell, she began to electrocute Elysia.

            “Your father took everything I love from me! You and your family deserve nothing but death!”

            With the anger boiling within, she amplified the spell’s power, ignoring the pain coming from her battered body. Eventually, the pain forced her to stop the spell and Elysia fell to her knees upon being released. Smoke began to emit from Elysia’s electrocuted body, though she was still able to recover. A Mannihilator cried out, “The cultists are retreating! We won this battle!” and this prompted a disgruntled Elysia to run away. Before she left, she told Jaden several words which she will remember for a time.

             “I am not done with you Jaden! We will see each other again.”

            Jaden’s sight began to blur as blessed unconsciousness fell upon her. She turned and saw Reed running towards her, his face showing his worry. He lightly slapped Jaden’s face and muttered out her name several times but before she could answer, her eyes closed and she knew no more.

Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 8

Chapter 8: Mannihilate

“How do you know my name Vader? This question has been in my mind for a while now.” Jaden asked as she nudged the VX Synthetic’s metallic shoulder.

“I was tasked by my master to watch over you. My mission began when you were five years, ten months, twenty-one days, five hours, thirty minutes and five seconds old. I do not know my master’s intention, but days before we met, he ordered me to find you and to protect you. The rest of the details are confidential. I was not permitted to tell you or Reed.”

“Who is your master Vader?” she queried. She had no immediate guesses however; she knew no one outside Qurrentine. Vader remained silent for a while before he answered, “My master’s identity is confidential. I cannot reveal his identity yet.”

“Ok you two. If you’re done talking, perhaps I should tell you both that we are approaching the Mannihilator’s home planet, Mannihilate.” Reed said from the cockpit. Jaden and Vader trudged to the cockpit to see a massive planet right outside the windscreen. It resembled a huge green orb, with patches of white and blue all around it, representing the clouds and seas respectively. “Ah, it’s been a while since I last visited this forest-infested planet. Mannhilator’s really love nature do they, or so I heard.” Reed commented.

“Is there anything I should know about this planet?” Jaden asked. Vader answered, “Mannihilate: A stationary planet unaffected by gravitational orbit of…”

“Vader, must you be so thorough? Let me answer her. I am much more knowledgeable of this planet than your metallic ass.” Reed turned to Jaden, cleared his throat and continued, “Mannihilate is a planet which does not orbit around a sun or spin around like most planets. It is stationary and does not move at all. Because of that, one half of the planet is always day time while the other half has eternal nighttime. One side is tropical while the other is snowy. Plants, which you probably never seen before, live on the tropical side of the planet, while the snowy side is full of cold wonders. The Mannihilators usually resides on the tropical side of the planet, though a select few live on the snowy side. Chances are we will visit both if we need full Mannihilator support.”

“So, which side are we going first?”

“Why don’t you choose Jaden?”

“Why me? You know this planet better than I am.”

“Yeah but it is your idea to get the Mannihilator’s help. It is your mission and I am just here to help. After all, I am not a good leader.”

“Alright. We’ll land in the tropical side first.”

Reed nodded and turned his chair around to face the windscreen. Upon pressing a few buttons, the ship, which Reed nicknamed the Crimson Spinner, accelerated towards the planet. Reed was careful not to increase the ship’s speed way too much as the air resistance will burn the ship to crisp. As they neared the planet, Jaden could see a massive forest which stretched nearly the whole planet and looking at how dense it was, she could only predict hours of searching. Reed scanned the planet for an open area and eventually found an opening in the forest. He landed the Crimson Spinner into the opening, the ship’s engine scaring animals away and creating a haze of dust around the ship. He then stopped the ship and said, “We have landed. I hope you enjoy the ride people…and robot.”

“OK, let’s head out.” Jaden said. She turned to leave the ship but was stopped by Reed.

“Jaden, wait. Why so anxious? We can’t leave just yet.”

“Why not?”

“This forest is thick and we might get lost. A bit of supplies might help. Not to mention Vader. The Mannihilators will shoot him on sight.”

“That will not be a problem Reed.” Vader said. Suddenly, Vader glowed with a bright brilliant blue, illuminating Reed who was right next to him. The glow intensified, eventually appearing white before it slowly faded away. As the glow vanished, Reed and Jaden could see Vader dressed in a grey hooded sweatshirt, the hood covering his face. Under his shirt seemed to be skin, seemingly replacing his metallic exterior. Reed sighed and commented, “Right. I forgot that VX Synthetics can create holographic disguises to keep themselves hidden.”

Instead of feeling impressed, considering how that was the first time she saw such a thing, Jaden stared at Vader with suspicion. She could not help but notice how similar Vader’s disguise is to Dark Viper’s appearance. Brief, traumatic memories of her last encounter with Dark Viper flashed into her mind, especially the memory of her mother being killed by Viper right in front of her eyes. She was lost in her thoughts, until Reed asked, “Jaden. Jaden. Are you alright?”

Jaden shook her head and replied, “Yeah…I’m…fine. Why did you ask?” “Your eye glow. It is bright enough to penetrate your blindfold. And you look…disturbed.” Reed answered. She replied, “Don’t worry about me. I’ll be fine.”

“Vader, is this your only disguise?”

“I’m afraid so Jaden. This is the only disguise provided by my master.”

“Alright then. Let’s get ready to venture out there.”

*     *     *

            The docking ramp angled down towards the ground and the sweet scent of the forest entered the ship. “This place smells better than urban planets, which smells like wet dogs.” Reed commented. With his rifle reloaded with the supplies he found from the ship’s supply room, he walked down the ramp with Jaden and Vader tailing him. Surrounding the landing site was nothing but trees and Jaden, unused to the sight, could not help but feel a sense of paranoia overwhelming her. She unsheathed her katana, summoned its blue glow and said, “I have a bad feeling about this.”

            “Jaden, I’m starting to worry about you.” Reed said, “Are you sure you’re alright? You’ve been easily distracted lately.”

            “Reed, I appreciate your concern but I’m fine.”

            “You know you can rely on me if you need help. We’re in this together after all.”

            “Thanks.”

            “So Vader, do you know which direction we should go from here?”

            “My sensors indicate that a large number of movements are happening east from here. I suggest we start there Jaden.”

            “Very well. Let’s go guys and keep your eyes and ears open.”

            “Yeah yeah. I’ll watch your back Jaden…literally.”

            The party trudged into the forest, pushing bushes aside and cutting away obstructing branches. Light erupting through the tall trees barely lit the area and occasionally, Jaden had to rely on her eye glow to see. The eerie silence made Jaden rather fearful of the forest but the idea of her not being alone kept her optimistic. Vader and Reed tailed her, though unlike her, they were not as hesitant.

            Suddenly, Jaden heard movement coming from a nearby bush. With a single gesture, she halted Reed and Vader. Reed questioned her actions but Jaden placed a finger on his lip. She whispered to him to remain silent and he complied. Intending to find out what was making that noise; Jaden closed her eyes and entered a meditation trance whilst standing. The world around her were blocked off from her senses and with the intense calm that she felt, she was able to hear subtle heartbeats coming from the bushes around her. She then heard murmurs coming from a person’s mind, “She’s no Mannihilator.”

            “Reed, we’re not alone here.” Jaden said upon leaving her trance. Reed sighed and replied, “I knew it.”

            “Ok guys. You can come out now! We know you’re all here!” Reed exclaimed while waving his hands about. Startled, Jaden shoved Reed and asked, “What in Ariel’s name are you doing?”

            Suddenly, armed Warriors began to jump out of the bushes. They pointed their swords at Jaden and her party while one of them bellowed, “You trespass Mannihilator territory, Magic user!” In retaliation, Jaden entered her Reverse Grip stance while Vader aimed his personal rifle at them. Reed, unlike Jaden and Vader, was barely affected by the Warriors’ presence. Instead, he continued his previous exclaiming, “Oh hey guys. Nice forest you got here.” Jaden nudged Reed and said, “Reed, this is not the time!”

            “Reed? I know that name.” a feminine voice said, coming from behind the group of Warriors. A humanoid figure left a bush behind the group and walked towards the party. As the figure entered the light, the figure was revealed to be a woman clad in heavy armor with an unknown insignia on it. Unlike most armor she seen or heard, the woman’s armor had a skirt with an elaborate design. It covered her legs, which she assumed was clad in armor too. The woman ordered, “Stand down men. These people are not our enemies.”

            “But Ser, one of them is a Magic user. I saw her entering a meditative trance.”

            “And so is Reed and he is our ally. We have enough enemies already. Stand down.”

            With reluctance, the Warriors complied and lowered their swords. “Reed, you’re a Magic user?” Jaden asked. Reed sighed and replied, “I was. Trust me Jaden…it was a long story and I hate to dwell on the past.”

            “And, you know this woman?”

            “For a long time, yes. She’s an Ohmni Knight. I somehow knew she was nearby.”

            “Greetings Reed. It’s been a while since I last saw your snide attitude.” the woman said as she sheathed her sword. Reed waved and replied, “Good to see you too Nora. You’re as serious as ever.”

            “What brings you back here Reed?” she questioned.

            “That’s a little complicated. You see, my friend here happens to be another victim of Dark Viper’s attack.”

            “Oh dear. Not again. What’s with Dark Viper attacking innocent people these days?”

            “You ask me. Though, perhaps I should mention that this woman is attempting to hunt him down and…”

            “Reed, I believe I can speak for myself.”

            “As you wish, my lady.”

            “Dark Viper murdered my whole family. I was the only survivor.”

            “Survivor? Dark Viper never leaves survivors behind.”

            “Believe me Nora. I dueled with Viper and I survived. I saw how he fought. He uses the Reverse Grip fighting style and he likes casting Dark Lightning and Dark Vines. I survived his spells and know well enough the pain it does. I understood the agony that people went through whenever he is around. He can bring your bad dreams to life and end the life of your loved ones in a second. I was lucky to have been able to survive him and I do not want to let the same fate befall to other people. I need help. I need your people’s help.”

            Nora remained silent while a startled Reed asked, “Jaden, you dueled with Viper and survived? Why didn’t you tell me this?” “It has the same reasons as you not telling me about you using Magical Energies once.” Jaden replied. “Alright then. My lips are sealed.” He answered.

            “Jaden, we Mannihilators have been attacked by Viper’s men for many years now ever since Iblisan has defeated the Salvagers and assumed control of Dissidia. We suffered many losses and I understand your pain well enough. We have been waiting for someone to take a stand, and I must say that I never expected a young lady to be doing it.”

            “I just believe that enough is enough. Iblisan and Dark Viper must fall. Ariel took a stand against Iblisan millions of years ago; I plan on doing the same.”

            “So, you admire Ariel too? I never thought that non-Mannihilators would revere the Heartless Champion of the Light. Perhaps you would want to speak to our leader. He will be interested to hear that someone survived a duel with Dark Viper.”

            Jaden nodded and the party followed Nora back to the Mannihilator home.

            “And Jaden, you can tell your VX Synthetic friend to turn off his disguise. I know a disguise when I see one, though it is fortunate that it is a friend of Reed. Otherwise, it will be scrap metal by now.”

            “Very well human. I trust your words.”

            “Vader, you are one lucky son of a bitch.”

            “Thank you Reed.”

            “That was not a compliment.”

            “I know.”

            “Tell me that you don’t understand sarcasm.”

            “I do.”

            As the party continues to trudge through the forest, Jaden ran to Nora’s side and asked, “Your people truly revered Ariel Silver?” Nora nodded with a smile. She replied, “We do. She saved the human race from extinction and we believe it right to revere her as a role model. We Mannihilators swore never to use Iblisan’s gift, Magical Energies, as it feels like a betrayal to Ariel.”

            “But, Ariel herself used Magical Energies, Holy Energies.”

            “True, but the Holy Spirit rejected Iblisan’s idea of war against the humans. The Holy Spirit was a benevolent being unlike its other counterparts and Ariel is the only known mortal to receive its blessings. I have a wonder, if you will indulge me. What is your affiliation and how did you know of Ariel?”

            “I am a Qurrentine, though my parents were Salvagers. My mother often told me stories of Ariel and it became my main inspiration in becoming an Energy Bladesman.”

            “A Salvager revering Ariel? My, my. The world has changed a lot. Ironic how you chose to use Magical Energies instead of avoiding them.”

            “I take it that your people are openly hostile to Magic user.”

            “In the past, yes. We attack Magic users on sight. In recent times, however, as Iblisan and Dark Viper pose a huge threat to our survival, we began to accept help from our former enemies, though many are still trapped by old hatred. Now, we are alone yet again, fighting hard to survive. Many say that they revere Ariel, but what they did not learn from her is the importance of unity. This is why I am taking the initiative to accept help from Reed and you. Believe me; you will be attacked if a different Ohmni Knight discovered you.”

            “Well thank you then. I am glad to see one Mannihilator who believes in unity.”

            “The enemy of my enemy is my friend. Many of us waited for one person to stand up against Dark Viper and Iblisan. Never thought that it will be one so young.”

            “Why didn’t any of you people form a rebellion then? Take a stand.”

            “Many of us were…afraid. No one survives an encounter with Dark Viper and the thought of become Dark Viper’s next target is very traumatizing.  Now that we have one who survived, you could boast our people’s morale.”

            “But…I’m no leader.”

            “You don’t have to be. You just need to let our leader know that it is possible to defeat Iblisan and Dark Viper.”

Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 7

Chapter 7: New Allies

            “Alright, now that we’re away from those very welcoming cultists, perhaps you and I need to talk about why a bag of bolts like you are trying to help our sorry butts.”

            Reed said as he shoved the Synthetic with his finger. Jaden crossed her arms and asked, “Reed, is this really necessary?” Reed nodded and replied, “Why yes it is. I want to know if Mr. Metal here is not some double agent or something.” “A double agent is an individual working as a spy for one organization while actually siding with the opposition. You, human, are just one man, no organization. My data core questions your wisdom and paranoia of my kind.” the robot retorted.

            “Are you implying that I am stupid?” Reed said as he stood up. The robot answered, “Stupidity cannot be calculated or judged easily but it has its limit human. A slight shock in my data core, however, seems to imply that you have broken that limit.” “Jaden, do we really need this I-know-everything piece of junk with us?” Reed queried. The robot, seemingly offended, flinched slightly and retorted, “I wouldn’t be standing here if I am what you call “a piece of junk”.” Jaden let out a deep sigh of seeming contempt and replied, “Reed, he gave this ship to us. Besides, considering our situation, we could use his help.”

            Reed turned to the robot and glared at it for a few seconds. His initial hostility and tensed movements slowly vanished and he gave the answer Jaden wanted to hear, “Alright. I guess you’re right.” Jaden showed a beaming smile, showing her approval, and whispered thanks to Reed. She then turned to the robot and asked, “If you have been looking for me, you should be staying with us for a while. I believe it right for us to know what to call you.” The robot nodded and replied, “I am VX-95, but my master gave me a codename which I believe is easier for humans to address. If you wish, you may call me Vader.”

            “Codename? You’re on a mission or something?” Reed asked. Vader turned its inhuman head to Reed and answered, “Yes but the details of my mission are confidential. Only when necessary will I tell you two of my mission.” As Vader turned back to Jaden, he looked down to see her stretching a hand out at him.

“Nice to meet you Vader. You know my name so there is no need for me to introduce myself.” Jaden told him. However, instead of accepting the shake of hands, Vader continued staring at her hand while barely moving. “Why aren’t you accepting it?” she asked. “My apologies Jaden but I am unfamiliar with human gestures.” Vader replied. Reed smirked and commented, “So much for calling me stupid eh? He doesn’t even know how to shake hands.” Jaden pulled back her hand and told Vader, “I don’t know how to explain it exactly but you’ll learn it soon enough.”

“Great. Now that we know our metal little buddy’s name, perhaps we should discuss on where each of us are going from here.” Reed said as he returned back to the cockpit seat. “If you two are curious though, I intend on starting a new life on another planet other than Dissidia or Qurrentine. The people on those two planets are barely hospitable, trust me I know.”

“My mission stays human. I am staying by Jaden’s side and…” “Yeah yeah yeah we know. No need to repeat your epic mission.” Reed interrupted Vader. He turned to Jaden and asked, “What about you Jaden? You seem pretty anxious to get out of Qurrentine.” Jaden frowned for a while before answering, “I honestly don’t know where to head to, but I intend on hunting down Iblisan’s lieutenant, Dark Viper.”

Reed stood up from his seat, shocked to learn of Jaden’s intentions. He asked, “What? Are you serious? Do you even know how powerful that bastard is? Not to mention his loyal soldiers.” “He murdered my father years ago and recently, he killed my family and friends in one fell swoop. I am not letting the same fate fall on other innocent people, even if it means I die trying.” Jaden replied.

“Jaden, I commend your motives but don’t be foolish. He destroyed entire armies singlehandedly. How could you have any chance against him?” Reed retorted. Jaden, maintaining her composure, replied, “It is a chance I am willing to take. Foolish or no, I am going to try. Iblisan’s lieutenant must fall.”

Reed slapped his forehead and sighed with seeming disappointment. He was beginning to get used to the serious, and probably blind, woman who assisted him in getting out of Qurrentine and he could not help but worry for her well-being, considering how young she appears. After all, she aided him while others were trying to kill or capture him. He should probably repay her. Thinking that Jaden have no chance against Dark Viper, even with Vader’s help, he decided to get involved somehow.

“I can’t believe I am doing this.” he whispered to himself.

“If you’re going to hunt for Viper, you can count me in.” Reed told Jaden. Her brow rose with awe and she asked, “What? Why? This is my problem, not yours. I don’t want to get you involved.” “Listen, I’ve met many young women in my time and somehow, they always ends up dying or suffering a bad fate. To think that I am letting yet another one die because of my selfishness is quite haunting. I don’t care if you like it or not. I am staying with you.” Reed answered.

“Well…um…thank you Reed. I must say, I don’t expect you to be willing to help me out.” Jaden said. Despite her unwillingness to let others get involved in her matter, Jaden felt that Reed’s help could be valuable, considering how he managed to defeat a large number of Iblisan’s cultists alone. The sense of appreciation surged through her body and she could not help but show a smile contagious enough to make Reed return the smile. However, Reed was not certain that the three of them could kill the powerful Energy Bladesman.

“You’re welcome Jaden but trust me, even with Vader or me on your side, it won’t be enough. We need a lot of help.”

“The human is implying that an army is to be formed to defeat this Dark Viper.”

“Yes. Vader’s right. We need an army. And please, start calling me Reed. I am sure people are smart enough to know that I am a human.”

“An army? Are you two serious? How are we even supposed to form an army?”

“Trust me Jaden, nearly the entire universe has a problem with Iblisan and Dark Viper; especially the Mannihilators.”

“Mannihilators? Who are they?”

“Mannihilators: A group of humans who break off from the Salvagers due to conflicting opinions over the usage of Iblisan’s gift, Magical Energies. These humans feel that humans are not supposed to embrace his gift as it feels like a betrayal to the legendary human warrior, Ariel Silver.”

“Ariel? The Heartless Champion of the Light? She’s one of main my inspirations for becoming an Energy Bladesman. That’s…so ironic.”

“Indeed. Despite the conflicting opinions however, most Salvagers, Mannihilators and Qurrentines worship Ariel. In addition, The Mannihilators are also well-known for discovering Omega Energies and the formation of the Ohmni Knights.”

“Um…yeah…they are everything that Vader said. Iblisan and Dark Viper have been trying to eliminate the Mannihilators since their Ohmni Knights are a huge threat to them. We could try to get their help, but they are known to be hostile to Salvagers and Qurrentines.”

“We don’t have much of a choice. Let us go to their planet for help.”

“Very well Jaden. I just hope I don’t regret this and that this rebellion we are forming won’t be a waste of time. Before we set off however, I want to get some rest.”

“Yeah. Me too. I’ll be in one of the cabins if you wish to find me.”

“I’ll always be here. This cockpit feels rather comfortable.”

“Reed could go and find a place to rest. I am capable of…”

“Oh no. You may be our friend now, but I am not ready to trust your metal ass with piloting this ship.”

“Very well then. I shall be at the briefing room if you need me.”

Jaden smiled despite the seeming hostility that Reed was showing to Vader. She was glad to see that happiness and fun can still exist even within the darkness of a Fallen Angel’s tyranny. She turned and left the cockpit, entering the briefing room which connects to the rest of the rooms. Reading through the signs, she found the cabin rooms and decided to take one for herself.

Unlike the comfortable home that she was used to, the cabin was enclosed and dark. Even with a pair of windows and the stars outside, it did little to illuminate the room. A foldable bed was connected to the wall along with a shelf and a hanger on the opposite side. Looking at the room reminded her of her brothers, whom she sometimes shared her bed with when theirs were being cleaned up. She missed their company, but she steeled her mind as she knew that they are gone. The room was at least a welcoming sight after a tiring journey off the planet.

Before she sleeps, she went to the centre of the room and sat down. The silence made it the perfect place for her to consult with her Magical Energies should she need to. With her eyes closed and her breathes slowed, she reentered her mind, hoping to learn more from her friendly Magical Energies.

Reed spins his seat around, hoping to occupy his time. He reflected on his reasons to assist Jaden and wondered if he will ever live to regret it. Still, her slender body, choice of clothing and silky black hair was enough to convince him that he should not let her die. He swore that she was the prettiest woman he had ever seen, although her blindfold ruined it all and he was still questioning whether or not she was truly blind. He remembered seeing her took off her blindfold and the brilliant blue glow that was released from her eyes blinded some of the cultists they fought. He thought that the glow was probably the actual reason why she wore the blindfold, though that will only mean that she was suffering from Magical Overflow. He decided not to dwell on the thought too much, only to recall that he’s all alone.

With Vader and Jaden out of the room, he could not help but feel abandoned and the boredom that comes with it makes him anxious to speak to either of them, even Vader. He stood up and trudged to the briefing room to see if Vader was there but strangely, he was not. “Lying metallic bastard. Still, how could a robot lie?” he asked himself. He then went to the cabin rooms to find Jaden.

He searched through each room and found Jaden sitting very silently in one of the rooms and facing away from him. She was breathing very slowly and her seeming obliviousness to Reed’s loud footsteps made him wonder what was going through her mind. He went inside and called her twice, though without any replies. As he looked around, he saw her blindfold on the floor next to her. Strangely, no light was seen erupting from her eyes to the wall in front of her. Feeling rather curious, he walked to her front to see her eyes but to his disappointment, her eyes were closed. It then struck him that she was meditating, an action typical with Energy users to calm themselves and to prevent Magical Overflow.

Just as he was about to walk away, Jaden’s eyes slowly opened, halting him in his tracks. He expected to see her glowing eyes again but as he remembered his previous encounters with other Energy Bladesman, he crouched in front of her, waiting in anticipation to see her real eyes without its glow since her emotions would be very calm in the meditation trance. When her eyes were revealed, Reed’s heart almost skipped a beat at the sight of her eyes.

Her iris was of a brilliant sky blue color, with a black outline and a black pupil in the centre. It was relatively large and it shined with the dim lightings from a star outside the window. Surrounding the iris was a pale white sclera and the dark makeup around her eyes, which was usually covered by her glow or her blindfold, only intensified her beauty. Reed’s body was barely moving and his mouth remained opened at such a gorgeous and rare sight. He tried, but failed to speak. He had no idea that a beautiful pair of eyes was hidden behind the blindfold and the glows.

Jaden blinked her eyes several times as she regained control over her physical body. As her sight began to recover, her glow returned and the intensifying light caused a blurry figure in front of her to recoil. Metallic thuds were heard along with groans which sounded similar to Reed’s voice. “Reed? Is that you?” she asked. Though she had no answer, her sight was back to normal and she could see Reed, lying on the floor while he rubbed his eyes.

Jaden snatched her blindfold and wore it, covering her eye glow. She stood up and reached out for Reed to help him up. “Are you alright? Did my glow hurt your eyes?” she asked as Reed struggled to stand up. He replied, “I’m…I’m fine.” “What are you doing in my room? I was meditating.” she asked. Reed answered, “I…was just seeing if you are…making yourselves at home. I guess I was in the wrong position at the wrong time.” “Yes you are. You almost lost your sight to my glow. Sorry about that though. I have no control over it.” she said.

“Don’t worry about it. I…um…am going back to the cockpit. I’ll be there if you…need me.” Reed said as he walked out of her room, albeit like a drunk. Jaden watched as he walked off and began to wonder, “Is it just me or is he stuttering over his words a lot? Must be my eye glow blinding him but still…what was he doing crouching in front of me and staring at me as I meditate? Strange man.”

“Wow. I have never seen any eyes like Jaden’s. It really sucks that it was glowing constantly, well unless she was meditating. Now I can’t help but think of her eyes. Not to mention that sexy body of hers. Suddenly, I feel very lucky.”

“Reed, why are you speaking to yourself? Is this normal human behavior?”

“Mind your own business Vader.”

“Very well.”

“Speaking of business, where were you? I thought you said you would be here in the briefing room.”

“Mind you own business Reed.”

“Hey!”

Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 6

Chapter 6: A Break Out of Qurrentine

            Jaden opened her eyes and found herself inside a black realm with virtually nothing in sight. The ground that she was sitting on vanished; replaced by a black floor which blends with the surroundings. Strangely, the darkness resembled the alley where she meditated, especially since she could still feel the wind which was blowing pass her physical body. Not willing to waste too much time, she stood up and began to call out her two Magical Energies.

            “Light! Dark! You two still here?”

            Seconds later, two separate beams of light, blue and red, burst from the black ground a few feet in front of Jaden. Despite appearing fiery, Jaden barely felt any amount of heat even though she was rather close to it. The beams eventually faded and a familiar pair of men, one who was blue while the other was red, stood where the beam was. “You called human?” the blue man asked. “What brings you back here?”

            “I merely want a question answered. Did I use my Energies recently?” Jaden asked. Suddenly, a huge screen, showing what appears to be a holographic image, appeared next to Jaden, startling her with its noise. It showed a part of Jaden’s fight with Dark Viper in which she unleashed a few unknown spells on him before he was knocked unconscious. It then struck her that that screen was her memories, since she was in her own mind after all. “Hmm yes I do remember you fighting that powerful human.” the red man commented as he and the blue man watched.

            The screen vanished and the duo turned their attention back to Jaden. “We happened to be responsible for that.” the blue man added. Jaden, somewhat surprised to hear their words, asked, “But why? Wasn’t I supposed to learn how to cast spells, instead of my powers casting on their own?”

“We learn through your memories that your Master was slain in battle. You saw that screen? That’s how we knew.” the red man explained. The blue man then said, “By right, your Master was supposed to teach you how to cast spells using our Energies.” “But since she was slain, we went out of our ways to assist you.”

“Assist me?” Jaden asked with awe. “Well, we did swear allegiance to you. Why are you surprised?” the blue man asked. “I don’t want to sound so distrustful but, my Master told me that Magical Energies should be forced into usage. She then added that Magical Energies will never assist us willingly. But, why you two?” “To be honest, we don’t really know why?” the red man answered. “We have this…compulsion to help you out even though Iblisan’s voices told us not to.” the blue man added.

“See, we Magical Energies are a product created by the Angel of Harmony Iblisan Alkaidus. Whatever he wants us to do, we oblige for he is our god. If he wants us to overcome the will of the humans who possess us, we will do it at the opportunistic moment. His voice is like a hypnotic signal, ordering us around, but we came to realize that we can do whatever we want despite his voices. We…just can’t go and overcome your will even though we had many opportunities to do it during your fight with that other human. Instead, we felt the need to help you out, though we don’t really know why. It makes me wonder how things will be different if we killed you on your Proving.” the blue man explained.

Jaden listened as the blue man explained, somewhat amazed at how his explanation of Magical Energies has a slight difference from Kiyara’s. However, what truly astounded her was him referring to Iblisan, the Fallen Angel who enslaved the Salvagers, as the “Angel of Harmony”. The last she heard, he was the Angel of Temptations.

“Does that mean that we have freewill?” the red man asked his counterpart. The blue man shrugged and replied, “I really don’t know. All I know is that our will is cut off from Iblisan’s voices. Though we hear him, our actions are our own, not his. I’m sorry human but we can’t explain ourselves.”

“Well, I guess I should thank you two for the assistance. But, now that my Master is dead, I can’t learn how to cast spells. I intend on leaving Qurrentine and I have no idea what dangers lurk on other planets.” Jaden said. “We’ll teach you.” the blue man told her. “You would?” Jaden asked with surprise and slight joy. “Yes and once again, I don’t know why I even considered teaching you despite Iblisan’s voices. I guess Dark Energy here was right.”

“We do have freewill.”

*     *     *

            The ship dock workers fled from their workplace, chased out of it by the Cult of Iblisan. Members of the cult, armed with rifles, patrolled the area with Iblisan’s dreaded insignias on their leather uniforms. Fearful citizens watched as they pondered on why Iblisan’s followers were guarding the docks even though Dark Viper had already left with his ship. In fact, his ship did not dock there; rather it landed on the outskirts.

            Jaden observed the patrols while hidden behind a nearby building. Through the teachings that her Energies gave her, she listened to their thoughts, hoping to hear their intentions. She went from one mind after another and eventually heard from a disgruntled guard’s mind his orders, “That lazy Angel can sometimes really piss me off. Guard the docks and kill the Energy Bladesman he said. Do I look like some assassin to him? If I never made the vow to follow all his orders, I would have shot him by now.”

            “Iblisan himself wants me dead? Humph, must be Viper’s doing. I guess I intimidated Viper enough for him to see me as a huge threat.” Jaden spoke to herself.

            “What could you have done to tick Dark Viper off?”

            Jaden jumped with shock upon hearing that voice so close to her ear. She gripped her chest as she felt her heart beating swiftly. She turned to see a young man smiling at her with both his hands at his back. “Whoa, sorry to startle you my lady.” he apologized. “I wouldn’t have been startled if you didn’t sneak up on me like that. Who are you and what do you want?” Jaden asked while struggling to speak through her heavy breathes.

            “My, what a cute Qurrentine accent you have there. Too bad you’re blind.”

            “I’m not blind!”

            “Then what’s with the blindfold, and the way you’re holding that sword? It is almost like you’re treating it like a walking stick.”

            “I am an expert in the Reverse Grip fighting style and my blindfold, it’s…it’s…you know what, I don’t have the time to explain! I need to get out of this planet and the last thing I need is to be annoyed by some stranger.”

            “Ah so you’re planning to get out of here too? You know, I happen to not like living here so, perhaps we could work something out? You and me could work together to get past those guards.”

            “And how are we supposed to do that? You sneak up on every guard and scare them to death?”

            “No, not really. I happen to be good at shooting so if you could provide me a rifle, I could fight alongside you. And, I know how to fly a ship. So, what do you say? We work together?” The stranger let out his hand, offering to shake his hand with hers.

            Jaden sighed as she thought about his proposition. The foreign stranger was clearly not as serious as he should be considering their current situation. His convenient appearance also made her suspicious of him. Still, she realized that she could not escape alone, especially since she did not know how to fly a ship. Thinking that she had no choice, she gripped his hand and said, “Well I guess I don’t have much of a choice.”

            “I am so glad to see that this war is bringing people together.” the stranger said with obvious sarcasm. “I’m Reed Robinson. Just call me Reed if you want. I am Salvager-born and glad to meet a Qurrentine woman, even a blind one.” “I’m not blind!” Jaden bellowed. “Alright alright I get it. I’m sorry. Do you have a name?” Jaden sighed and replied, “Jaden Highland. Qurrentine Energy Bladesman.” “Ah an Energy Bladesman. You’re much powerful than you look I guess. So, Jaden, I’m sure fetching a rifle from a nearby guard isn’t too tough for you.”

            The outskirts of the docks were seemingly clear of life. Its silence resembled graveyards and the whistling of the wind sent chills up a lonely patrol who was unlucky enough to be ordered to guard that area. He walked down the street and further away from his superiors, looking out for the Energy Bladesman they were ordered to kill. He walked past a dark alley and still found no one. Suddenly, he felt a stinging pain coming from behind him before it came from his stomach. He looked down to see the bloody sharp end of a blue glowing katana pierced through his abdomen.

            Jaden pulled back her sword off him and the patrol fell to the ground, dead. She looted his rifle and Reed, overjoyed to finally have a weapon, ran to her side from the alley and took the rifle from Jaden. “Finally I have a weapon. For months I have been hiding. Now it is time to take the fight to them.” “You have been hiding from Iblisan’s men? What for?” Jaden asked. Reed appeared surprised for a moment and stuttered on his words before becoming calm and explained, “I happened to be a wanted man, for the smallest and the righteous of all crimes. Don’t worry. I won’t murder you. I don’t murder nice young ladies. Now let us get out of this planet.”

            As Reed marched to the docks, Jaden’s suspicion of him grew. She knew he was hiding something but considering their situation, she refused to read his mind of it. She followed him and hoped that they could get out of the planet alive.

            As they walked towards the docks, Reed saw a pair of guards, conversing with each other while guarding one of the entrances to the docks. Jaden, lighting her sword with a blue glow, was about to charge at them before Reed stopped. “Wait, let me have some fun with these guys.” he told her. He walked towards the guards while Jaden reluctantly followed.

            “Halt! Who goes there?” the guard asked upon hearing Reed’s footsteps. “Hi there fellows. Bright day isn’t it? I’ve been wondering if you two have the map to a place called heaven.” Jaden nudged Reed and asked, “Reed, what the hell are you doing?” “It’s the Energy Bladesman! Open fire!” Before the guards could shoot however, Reed blasted holes into their heads. He looked down, smiled and taunted, “Well never mind. You can thank me for sending you there later.”

            Jaden sighed at the seeming lack of maturity in the young man. Suddenly, she saw guards running out of a corner from a distant building. They fired at her and Reed, prompting them to take cover behind a metal support. “These must be the welcoming committee. Perhaps we should give back the welcome.” Reed said before leaning out and firing at them, killing two of the guards. They then focused fire on Reed, forcing him back into cover and Jaden take advantage of the opportunity. She jumped out of her cover, light her sword with a blue glow, and sprinted at the group.

            Several guards saw her and shot at her. However, thanks to a spell she learned, her movements were as fast as the wind and her reaction was swift enough to deflect some of the bullets away. Using her Energies, she jumped high up in the air, landing right in the middle of the group. Swinging her Energy-infused blade about, she cut through their bodies and even some of the guard’s armor. Eventually, she fell most of the guards with her physical body intact.

            “Wow, you must’ve been training to fight for years. You’re pretty good.” Reed said as he ran to Jaden’s side. “Thanks, though I’m still an amateur in using spells as you can see.” “As long as you know how to fight, everything will be fine I suppose. Come; let us find a ship before more of the patrols arrive.”

            Reed and Jaden entered the docks and saw a long line of parked ships, most of which were military transport ships. They eventually discovered why the docks has so many military transport ships as a large battalion of cultist soldiers were also inside, falling in line. Upon seeing the duo, they raised their rifles and aimed at them. With all their rifles pointed at the duo, Jaden knew that her chances of survival are low if she tried to fight back. Silently, she cursed, “Damn it.” “Well, one hell of a welcoming committee this is.” Reed said with seeming bravery. “Hey stop talking! Drop your weapons and put your hands behind your head.” one of the soldiers ordered. Having no choice, the duo complied.

            As two of the soldiers moved in to bind them, Jaden saw a ship docking on one of the empty docking slot. Though it was another military transport ship, it was rather distinct in that it was crimson in color. The docking ship caught some of the soldier’s attention and for reasons unknown to her; they seemed rather suspicious of the ship’s arrival. One of the soldiers was ordered to check if the ship was truly one of the cults.

As a soldier was binding Jaden’s wrists, the ship finally docked and gunfire was heard. Every soldier turned to the gunfire and Jaden, using the distraction, pushed away her binds, grabbed her sword, enlightened it with a red glow, and slashed the soldier behind her. She then killed the soldier binding Reed and he quickly picked up his rifle. Their death screams caused the soldiers to turn their attention back at them and the duo quickly ran behind nearby crates while the soldiers opened fire on them.

Suddenly, Jaden heard some of the soldiers shouting in seeming pain and the gunfire directed at them lessened, almost as if someone was killing them and some of the soldiers were shooting at that someone. As more soldiers were killed, the battalion was forced to direct all fire on their assailant and the duo took advantage of it. Reed threw an active grenade he looted at the battalion. The group dispersed but the explosion killed a large number of the soldiers while injuring a few others. Reed then opened fire on the surviving soldiers while Jaden ran in and killed several patrols reinforcing the battalion.

As she was fighting, she heard a soldier shouting in pain behind her and saw that the soldier, who was trying to ambush her with his rifle, was shot by someone. She assumed it was Reed but he happened to be busy shooting at other soldiers. As she looked around, she saw her savior near the crimson transport ship and was amazed to see that it was not a human, or anything she had seen before. She was astounded enough to ignore her surroundings, which was a battlefield.

A humanoid figure, crouched and armed with a distinct rifle, stared at Jaden and was not trying to shoot her at all. Eventually, the figure stood up with both its arm on its side, allowing her to see figure’s full features. The figure was clad in metal, resembling most machines Jaden had seen in her life. It had four metallic figures and a rather large build. Large wires were seen all over its body and under its metallic skin. Its feet only had two long toes and were also metal. Its head, which is not circular like humans, was long and cocoon-like in terms of shape. It was bent forward, almost as if it was the being’s neck, and its face was at the tip of the cocoon shape. Its face had nothing but a pair of flashlights as seeming eyes. Many of its other features cannot be described further for her. No skins, hair or flesh was seen and clearly, this thing is not a living thing.

“Jaden Highland. I have arrived. You are safe for now.” the figure spoke with a masculine, monotonous and distorted voice. “You know my name?” Jaden asked. The figure nodded and replied, “I know a lot about you Jaden.” The gunfire eventually ceased as Reed killed the last soldier. He ran to Jaden’s side and said, “Jaden, where the hell were you? I had to fight most of the soldiers.” She replied, “Sorry but, that thing over there caught my attention.”

As Reed turned to look at the thing, he almost recoiled with surprised. His expression change to seeming fear and he told Jaden, “Oh crap. Out of all that we had to fight, why must it be a VX Synthetic?” “A VX…what?” Jaden asked. “A VX Synthetic. You’re Qurrentine and you don’t know of these robots? They are every Qurrentine’s favorite enemy. I’m guessing you never heard of their story.” Reed retorted. “I come here to get Jaden Highland and her allies off this planet.” the robot said. Reed, not willing to believe him, joked, “Yeah and my pants are on fire.” “Your pants are not on fire and I don’t lie.” the robot replied.

“Reed, I think he really wants to help us.” Jaden told him. “Yeah? What makes you believe him so quickly?” Reed asked. “He saved me from one of the soldiers. In fact, his arrival saved us both. I think he really means it.” Jaden answered. He began to see Jaden’s point but still felt suspicious over the robot’s convenient appearance. He told the VX Synthetic, “Hey, thanks for the help but I think I would rather fly out of here on one of these other ships.” “Human’s wish cannot be complied. Other human ships are rigged to self-destruct in a few minutes.” the robot replied. “What? There is no self-destruct button on…wait. Did you code them to self-destruct?” Reed asked.

“Yes.”

“But why?”

“Cult of Iblisan soldiers will pursuit. Without their ships, soldiers will be trapped here.”

“Great. Just what we need: Only one ship out of this shit hole.” Reed exclaimed. “Jaden Highland, I am not your enemy. Come with me if you wish to leave this planet.” the robot requested. Jaden nodded and told Reed, “Come on Reed, we don’t really have much of a choice.” However, he shook his head and replied, “I don’t trust robots and…” Reed was interrupted when gunfire was heard and a bullet flew past his head. More patrols had return and Reed quickly changed his mind. He and Jaden ran into the robot’s crimson ship while the robot covered them. It then retreated into its ship and locked the door behind it.

Reed rushed to the cockpit and began to swiftly press a large number of buttons. The ship began to power up and he gripped the joystick before pulling it backwards to reverse the ship. As the ship was far enough away from the docking slot, he turned the ship to the right to face it at open space. Suddenly, several soldiers shot at the ship, though its armor prevented any bullets from penetrating. However, any holes in the ship will prevent space travelling from being safe, thus Reed turned the ship’s engine to full-throttle and it accelerated forward. The force caused Jaden and the VX Synthetic to fall to the floor while Reed continued to maintain control of the ship.

Realizing that Reed was going to fly up into space, Jaden stood up and ran for the other cockpit seat to put on the seatbelt. The VX Synthetic simply held on to a nearby wall. Reed pulled the joystick and the ship went up through the skies and into space. Now that they are no longer in danger, Reed turned off the engines to have a nice, long sigh of relief.

“Finally out of that planet and into sweet old space.”

“Your men tried and failed Iblisan. I’m still alive and coming for Dark Viper.”

“Part one mission accomplished. Jaden Highland…is safe.”