Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 26

Chapter 26: Defection

            Despite the familiar voices and faces, Jaden continued staring at the duo with awe, finding it hard to believe that her triplet brothers were alive. Recalling the incident, she remembered seeing the deceased bodies of everyone living with her, along with her mother’s death under Viper’s hands. After a while, though come to think of it, she never did saw her brothers’ dead bodies. This made her assume that they may have escaped Viper’s assault. Still, their very convenient appearance still made her doubt that the duo was indeed her brothers.

            Lucas and Markus, smiling at Jaden, approached her and pulled her in, embracing her in a group hug. Jaden barely reacted, still wondering if what she was seeing was true. When she made contact with their bodies, however, she felt something familiar about the feeling that comes. Indeed, she had hugged her brother many times before, and the feeling was no different. Lucas then whispered to her ear, “Jaden, we thought you were dead. We were so worried…” and the concern that she can sense behind his words convinced her.

            They were indeed her brothers.

            Her glowing eyes began to well up with tears, wetting her blindfold. She tried to smile, though the sadness and the happiness warped the smile into a wave. She brought up her arms and welcomed the hug, embracing both her brothers. She laid her forehead on Lucas’s shoulder and muttered out, “Lucas…Markus…I…I can’t believe you two are alive…”

            The trio released each other while Markus replied, “We neither. We heard about the rest dying and we assumed you died too. But, after hearing that you defeated Dark Viper, we’ve been trying to find you.”

            “Indeed Jaden. We heard you attacked the cultist occupied docks and left the planet. Where did you go? Markus and I were hoping to regroup with you.” Lucas asked.

            Jaden had difficulty speaking as she was still coming to terms with her brothers’ unexpected return. After wiping her wet cheeks and blindfold, she replied, “I…I left with Reed and Vader to form a rebellion.”

            “The Liberator Alliance right? Iblisan and Dark Viper are aware of it. They placed a bounty on your head for trying to start a rebellion. From what I heard, you gained full Mannihilator support. Am I right?”

            “Yes Markus. The Mannihilators wished to help us.”

            “Unexpected really. Lilian and Raydon used to say that the Mannihilators are terrorists, our enemies. Strange to see them helping us out of the sudden. And to add to that, that Vader…a VX Synthetic…your crewmate. So, why you came back?”

            “She wished to gain the support of the Salvager remnants in Qurrentine. And yes, I know of it.” Mason answered.

            Jaden turned to Mason, unsure on what to do with him. She asked, “How’d you know?”

            “Dark Viper told me. He saw you and Tareshah fighting together.”

            “You must be Mason. Aww, I actually expected you to be half-naked and wearing a manly bikini. Can’t say I’m disappointed; I’d rather stare at a female siren.” Reed jested.

            “And you must be Reed Robinson. Your bounty information said a lot about your jesting habits.”

            “I do my best. So, Jaden, what the hell are we going to do with him?”

            Jaden remained silent, unsure on what to do with Blake Mason and his surviving bounty hunters, considering the fact that Mason cannot be killed conventionally.

            “So, I see that my two new recruits have been reunited with their long lost sister.” Mason said.

            Lucas nodded and retorted, “Yes we are. And here I wonder why you are so friendly out of nowhere. That’s pretty suspicious you know.”

            “Strange that you’re accusing me of being suspicious when you two just betrayed me and my men. Still, I’m not angry about that.”

            “Our mom said that you care for your men. This is unlike the Mason we heard in her stories.”

            “I do care for them. In fact, I would’ve ripped both your heads off by now for killing them. But, this is an exception. Dementius did spoke of this after all.”

            “What? Spoke of what?” Jaden asked.

            “It was many years ago, before the Grand Betrayal. Dementius kept mentioning a vision he saw.”

            “What vision? He never told us anything about a vision.”

            “Hmph, I can see why he wouldn’t tell you three. The future is fluid after all…nothing is certain. Precisely why I won’t tell you three about it but just know that you three being united are part of it.”

            “But I don’t understand. You seem to get along so well with our family, enough that our mother speaks so fondly of you. Yet, why didn’t you stay with us? Your siren nature could’ve saved our family. Why did you side with Viper?” Jaden queried.

            “As I mentioned before, Viper was a friend of mine. I refused to turn against him. Now though, he made it clear that he didn’t see me as a friend. And secondly, when Glacier told me that her daughter died, I…lost hope. But, now that you three are alive and together, Dementius’s vision may be true after all.”

            “So, what are you going to do about it? After all, Dementius and Glacier are dead while you’re with a group of bounty hunters.”

            “Jaden…let there be no more hostility between us. True, I threatened the lives of you and your crew but…things are different now. From now on, I’m no longer siding with Viper. Some friend he was…”

            “Whose side are you on then?”

            “I can’t really tell. Look, I…I need to collect my thoughts. Meet me at the bounty hunter lair. I’ll tell my men not to shoot you. We’ll talk there.”

            “And how do we know this is not an ambush?”

            “Well, my men there didn’t know that Lucas and Markus are traitors. They can tell the men to hold their fire and they’ll listen. Besides, there is no point to us fighting anymore. Viper has betrayed me. Now go. I’ll be with you in a few hours.”

            Hesitant but willing to believe him, Jaden nodded and turned to her crew. She nodded at them, telling them to return to the Crimson Spinner. However, when she spotted Kida hiding her face behind Vader, she called out, “Kida! You have a bit of explanation to do!”

            Kida peeked at her and replied, “I’m…sorry?”

            “Why did you let me get captured by Mason?”

            “Wait, so Kida betrayed Viper?” Mason queried.

            “Hey, in case you’re too oblivious to realize, my eyes are not glowing anymore. Screw Viper and Magical Overflow.”

            “Start talking you little missy.”

            “You know Jaden, even if she’s siding with you, I’m not surprised by her actions.”

            “Oh? Why?”

            “Well, few people knew that I am a male siren. I’m guessing Kida changed her plans and decided to pretend to side with me, since trying to kill me then would be futile.”

            Jaden looked back at Kida, who nodded with a reluctant smile on her face. She shrugged and replied, “Yeah…I didn’t know Mason was a siren. Trying to kill him there would be a death sentence. And, I didn’t tell you about what I was about to do because your reaction would make the scene appear genuine.”

            Jaden sighed and retorted, “You may be right but, I trusted you! You know that!”

            “Look, I’m sorry alright? I’m sorry that I nearly sacrificed you to preserve my…I mean…our lives. I was just trying to adapt to the situation.”

            Jaden rubbed her face, disappointed but able to see that Kida was indeed feeling guilty. She said, “Alright. I forgive you. Just…don’t do it again alright?”

            Kida nodded swiftly with a beaming smile. She added, “Yes I won’t. So, we cool?”

            “Yeah we cool. Now, let’s get back to the Crimson Spinner. We don’t want to waste anymore time.”

*     *     *

            “So, you two were hiding amongst the bounty hunters then? I’m surprised they actually let you two join them.”

            “Much less exciting than travelling the world, forming a rebellion and plotting revenge against Viper. But, yeah, Markus and I thought it was a good idea to hide amongst them, especially considering how so few of the Qurrentines even heard of them.”

            “Heck, I didn’t even know they exist until Tareshah told me about them.”

            “In fact, when we heard that their leader was Commander Mason, we were a bit excited to join. Alas, he almost never left his office and was a paranoid bastard. Only once we met him and he immediately recognized me and Lucas as Glacier’s sons. Surprised to see him so open out of nowhere.”

            “Yeah, who would’ve thought that he would ally with Viper. Did you two consider that when you joined them?”

            “Yeah but when we thought about it, Viper never actually visited them. That’s why he left Kida in Qurrentine. She’s some sort of emissary. It made us question if Mason was truly the Mason mom talked about but yeah, we’ve been observing him.”

            “Speaking of Kida, did you two actually notice that she was one of Viper’s agents?”

            “We did. We saw her glowing eyes and we tried to avoid her. It was sad really, since she was our family friend. Still, I’m glad that she managed to free herself from her Magical Overflow.”

            “At the cost of Damien’s life though.”

            “Yeah. We heard that you were there to see him die. We’re sorry about that.”

            “Viper will get what’s coming to him and I’m glad that you two are here to join the party.”

            “You can count on your bros Jaden. From now on, let us stay together. Hearing a lot about what you and your crew did, I don’t mind joining the fun.”

            “Heh, you were always one to like danger Markus.”

            “Don’t leave me out Jaden. I like danger too.”

            “Which reminds me, Mason said that Viper betrayed him…yet…I don’t rightly know how exactly Viper betrayed him. I mean, he said that you two turned against him and for some reason, he considered that to be Viper betraying him.”

            “Thing is Jaden, Viper’s very deceptive. Even his allies are hesitant to fully trust him. When something life threatening happens, chances are, its Viper’s doing.” Lucas explained.

            “So, my guess is this: When we turned against him, it seemed like Viper planned it.” Markus added.

            “Even though he knew that you two were Glacier’s children? This is very odd.” Jaden retorted.

            “Or maybe it was just his paranoia? Who knows? One thing I know is that Markus and I are not Viper’s agents.”

            “Yeah. I won’t ever work for that bastard.”

            “Hey Jaden, just wanna say that I’m glad you’re alright. Mason held you captive for a few hours and we actually thought that we were too late.” said Reed from one of the cabin speakers.

            “Well, thanks for the rescue. Speaking of which, how did you damage Mason’s frigate?”

            “You might wanna ask Jaina or Vader on the subject. Apparently, this transport ship has a gun emplacement.”

            “Really? Ever since when does this ship have guns?”

            “Ask the tin can. He installed it.”

            “Well Jaden, if you don’t mind, Lucas and I need some sleep. It has been a long day for us.”

            “Alright. I’ll leave you two alone. I’ll check on my crew in the meantime.”

            While Lucas and Markus went to find their own individual cabin rooms to rest in, Jaden went to check on Gavin, whom she heard was injured in a gunfight against the bounty hunters. Trudging to his cabin, she saw him lying on his bed with Jaina sitting next to him.

            “Jaden. I was relieved to see that you’re alright despite what happened.”

            “Gavin took a hit, didn’t he?”

            “Yeah. One in the leg. Nothing major but it really made him mad since he couldn’t go with the crew to help in your rescue.”

            “Mad is a bit of an understatement Jaina. I was furious.”

            Jaden kneeled down next to Gavin and said, “I appreciate that you all risk life and limb for me. Thank you.”

            “Still, according to what your brothers said, you actually managed to escape yourself. You even managed to force Mason to surrender simply by talking to him.”

            “Yeah I guess I did Gavin. Fortunate for me though, since I learned a new spell while I was restrained.”

            “Magical Energies really helped you a lot, even despite your eye glow. I must say, I never met another individual like you. I would’ve gunned down Mason rather than talk to him was I in your shoes, even if he is a siren. I’m impressed.”

            “Please Gavin. I talked him down because I know a lot about Mason.”

            “And knowledge is power. Very cunning.”

            “Aww come on Jaina. Please, I appreciate the compliments but I’m just doing what I must and what I feel is right.”

            “Alright Jaden.”

            “Are you sure you’re going to be alright Gavin?” Jaden asked while placing a hand on his forehead.

            “Eh don’t worry about me. I’ve experienced worse.”

            “If you want, I can cast a healing spell on you.”

            “Thanks but no thanks. I’d rather my body be free of Magical Energies.”

            “As you wish. Anyway, where’s Tareshah? I need to ask her something.”

*     *     *

            Mason massaged his forehead, attempting to reduce the pain caused by his headache. He still could not believe that his close friend, Glacier Highland, was truly dead. Better yet, her seemingly deceased daughter just so happened to emerge when he least expect it, although he had his suspicions due to her surname. He had difficulty taking it all in as it all came to him so suddenly. Still, he was glad at least that everything went according to plan.

            “I sense that you are disturbed Mason. Is it as I feared?” a voice from the intercom which Mason quickly recognized as Dark Viper’s.

            He approached the intercom and replied, “You’re many light-years away and you can sense my thoughts?”

            “I expected a report, yet you took your time. I can tell that something is wrong.”

            “Viper, you never told me that you…killed Glacier.”

            “Considering how you are close to falling into depression, you should understand why I kept the news from you.”

            “But…why did you do it?”

            Viper went silent for a while. Mason could tell that Viper may not be proud of his actions.

            “Consider it collateral damage.”

            Mason sighed; disappointed that Viper would commit such an act. However, he remained loyal to his master nonetheless.

            “Mason, how did the plan go?”

            “Lucas and Markus turned against me and my men and joined the Liberator Alliance, as expected. Jaden now believe that you and I are no longer allies and she agreed to parley with me. You know, a little warning would be nice. I lost a lot of good men to make the defection appear genuine.”

            “A necessary sacrifice.”

            “You know I don’t like to treat my men like cannon fodder. This better be worth their deaths.”

            “Well, you almost messed up with the act. According to Agent X’s report, she’s a bit suspicious, thinking that something was amiss. Ask Agent X yourself if you have the chance. His sensory capabilities far surpass any other mortals.”

            “Hmph, I admit I was bit at a loss on how to make it seem real.”

            “That can be forgiven. For now, what’s important is that you earn Jaden’s trust. When the time comes, you’ll know what to do.”

            “Fine. Just…make sure you keep that…rage of yours in check. Otherwise, irony will state that you will mess up your own plans.”

            “That won’t happen. Trust me. Just, go along with the plan.”

            “Wait, I have something to ask. You realize that Jaden is actually Glacier’s daughter right?”

            “I am fully aware.”

            “Yet you placed a bounty on her head and almost got her killed several times. What the heck is up with that?”

            “Killing her was never my plan. I merely wanted her captured.”

            “And how is ensuring her freedom getting her captured?”

            “She is quick to trust people, just like her mother. We are taking advantage of that.”

            “You scare me sometimes…you know that.”

            “Good.”

            “By the way, I told them about Dementius’s vision.”

            “Not wise Mason. Space-time continuum is very fragile.”

            “Don’t worry. I didn’t tell them everything. Besides, they have the right to know and knowing that Glacier’s daughter is alive gave me hope. In fact, since they’re all alive, I can fulfill Glacier’s vow after all.”

*     *     *

            Tareshah stripped her rifle apart and spread all of its parts about the workbench in the maintenance room. For too long, she had been using the rifle without having it cleaned up. In fact, even before she was turned into a child, the rifle was never cleaned and she never wanted to risk jamming the rifle. Unlike the last time she cleaned it up, the parts appeared bigger since she grew far smaller than she was before. This made her glad that she was at least strong enough to carry and shoot the rifle despite her size, although it did prove difficult. Silently, she cursed Kida for turning her into a child, although she tolerated her presence since Tareshah was aware that she was suffering from Magical Overflow at that time.

            A few knocks on the metallic wall was heard coming from behind her. She turned to see Jaden and gestured her to come in. “You’re not busy are you?” Jaden asked.

            “Nope. Just cleaning my rifle. If you want to talk lass, I don’t mind.”

            “First of all, thanks for actually participating in my rescue.”

            “Hey don’t worry about it lass. You’re still young and letting you die when we’re supposed to be allies would be irresponsible of me.”

            “Hmph, feels strange hearing a child saying that I’m still young. Um…no offense.”

            “None taken. And by the way, you should thank your VX Synthetic friend. It is the one who tracked down Mason’s frigate despite its stealth systems.”

            “His name is Vader by the way.”

            “I know. It is just that…I am not used to calling a machine by name. It is unusual to treat a machine like a person.”

            “Anyway, listen. I hope you’re alright with me letting Kida come with us despite everything she did. Especially since she’s responsible for your…”

            “Lass, let me be clear: I don’t like that bitch and I probably never will. She practically ruined my life and almost let you die. Still, I can understand why you would take her in. She’s a powerful Warlock and a former agent of Dark Viper, which makes her a good source of information. She’s also an old friend of yours. Just, keep her in line and makes sure she doesn’t double-cross us and I will tolerate her presence.”

            “Knowing Kida, she would probably try to find a way to revert you back to your adulthood.”

            “I doubt it. She enjoys ridiculing my child state.”

            “Trust me, if she does that again, I’ll make sure she revert you back to your adulthood, even if I have to force her to do it.”

            “Don’t make promises you can’t keep lass. Still, it warms my heart to see that at least someone care about my problems.”

            “By the way, tell me something Tareshah. Are you alright with me parleying with Blake Mason?”

            “Honestly, I thought it was stupid of you to even talk to him since he was our enemy and almost hauled you to Dark Viper. I mean, we agreed that we deal with him so that we Veraslag can join your Liberator Alliance without problems. Yet, instead of killing him, you’re actually going to discuss with him about…I don’t even know what. You’re not following what we agreed upon.”

            “Listen, I knew Blake Mason. He was a friend of my parents. I never noticed that before because I thought the Mason my mother always told me about was dead. Who would’ve thought he was a male siren, never mind joining Dark Viper and becoming a bounty hunter leader?”

            “Yet, you were pretty hostile to him, weren’t you?”

            “Because I was angry. I was angry that he sided with the man who murdered my family…his friends. When he realized that I am the daughter of his friend however, his tone changed. I’m willing to listen to him because…well…I pity him.”

            “Just be careful lass. He expected us to meet him in his territory. Anything can happen.”

            “I know. I’ll stay alert and keep my weapon in hand. Of course, I won’t go in alone.”

            “Speaking of weapons, did Kida’s demon return your katana to you?”

            “Yeah she summoned him on the way back to the Crimson Spinner. A strangely nice demon. The demon I met before him was…a bit crazy.”

            “Ok people, we’re now reaching Qurrentine…again. I hope you all enjoy this incredibly short trip! Oh and Jaden, if we’re going to meet Mason, I want at least one person staying behind to watch my big girl. I don’t her getting hijacked by a random loser.”

            “I’ll get on that Reed. Don’t worry. Well, duty calls. You want to follow me Tareshah?”

            “Of course lass. I don’t want Mason’s men getting the jump on you. I’ll keep your butt safe.”

*     *     *

            Upon landing on the urbanized planet, Jaden, alongside Tareshah, Reed, Kida, Vader and her brothers, went to Mason’s bounty hunter lair. Within, Lucas and Markus halted the bounty hunters when they were about to assault the party. True to Mason’s words, the duo was able to convince the bounty hunters that they were these in peace. The party waited for Mason’s arrival, who took his time to return to the lair. Minutes flew and the male siren finally arrived with a few survivors of the assault on his frigate.

            Jaden approached him with her party tailing her. She and Mason came to a stop as the neared each other. She then asked, “So, what did you want to talk about?”

            “I’m proposing an alliance.” Mason replied. “With Viper’s treachery, we no longer have a purpose and it goes without saying that Viper would want us dead, seeing us as an inconvenience. Having nowhere else to turn to, and seeing that Dementius’s vision may be true after all, I was hoping that you would accept us bounty hunters into the Liberator Alliance.”

            Mason reached out a hand to Jaden, waiting for her to accept his proposal. Jaden stared at his hand, seemingly reluctant to accept it. Tareshah, noticing that Jaden was actually considering it, attempted to dissuade her from it. She believed that rejecting Mason was the right decision.

            “Don’t accept it lass. Mason killed a lot of my men and I expect him to stab you in the back the next chance he got.” Tareshah retorted.

            “I understand you’re unwillingness to trust me Tareshah but the situation has changed.”

            “And the change happens too suddenly. Do you really expect us to believe that you have a change of heart simply because you now know of Jaden’s origins?”

            “I’m actually going to agree with Tareshah here. You’re being a bit too shifty Mason.” Reed added.

            “Speaking from the man who betrayed a lot of people in his past.”

            “Watch it Mason! You don’t like it when I’m angry.”

            “Sensitive past Reed? Perhaps I should tell everyone about it.”

            “Aww come on guys. I’ve known Mason for quite a while, especially while I was controlled by Magical Overflow. He’s not shifty and distrustful. He also respects and cares for his soldiers.” Kida retorted.

            “Coming from the bitch whose mind was controlled and corrupted by the foul Magical Energies she possessed. And don’t get me started on you betraying Jaden.”

            “You need to watch that mouth of yours kid, lest you want me to turn you into a baby.”

            “You wouldn’t dare!”

            “Would you all just calm down and shut up! This is not making things easier for Jaden!” Markus exclaimed. His words silenced the room and the party ceased their arguments.

            Jaden crossed her arms, still deep in thought over a decision. On one hand, Mason and his bounty hunters would prove to be powerful allies and Mason himself seemed to have a personal grudge with Viper, since he murdered Glacier and ultimately betrayed him. However, on the other hand, he seemed rather shifty and it is possible that everything he said about Dementius’s visions may be false.

            After weighing through the consequences of recruiting Mason and his bounty hunters into the war effort, she believed that he and his men could be a huge benefit to the rebellion. Though risky, Mason himself could help turn the tides of most battles, something which he was known for according to Glacier’s stories. After all, seeing the opposition, she could use all the help she could get and she was willing to take any risks.

            She accepted Mason’s hands and replied, “Alright. You and your men are welcome.” Mason smirked and answered, “Thank you Jaden. We won’t let you down.”

            “Unwise lass. Unwise.” Tareshah said as she shook her head in disappointment.

            “You know what? Screw this! Since you like Mason so much, I’m pulling Veraslag out of the Liberator Alliance. You can rot with him in the middle of nowhere once you die! I am not going to fight side by side with the man who killed so many of my loyal followers!”

            Infuriated, Tareshah began to walk out of the lair. As she neared the exit, she halted in her tracked when she heard Jaden exclaimed, “Tareshah, wait!”

            “Tareshah, we agreed that Veraslag would join us once the bounty hunters are no longer a threat. They’re our allies now, which mean they are no longer a threat. You need to honor your end of the deal by joining the Liberator Alliance.”

            “We agreed that Veraslag join only when Mason and his men are dead!”

            “And how do you expect me to kill a male siren? Or better yet, a former war hero? And what makes you think that staying out of the rebellion would help the future of our people! I expected you to at least understand that I have little choice in the matter!”

            “You had two choices Jaden: Side with him or side with me. You picked him!”

            “No, I picked neither. I picked the side of the Salvagers.”

            “And what makes you think you know what’s best for the Salvagers? You grew up a Qurrentine.”

            “Because I have Salvager blood within me and my parents ensured that I grew up a Salvager, not a Qurrentine.”

            “Whatever. I’m through with you!” Tareshah turned around and walked away but was halted once again when Jaden called her name.

            “Tareshah, listen. You know what? Do what you want. It’s pretty clear that I can’t dissuade you from your choice. Still, you might want to ask yourself this: Is your personal grudge with Blake Mason truly worth staying out of a war which could’ve returned the Salvagers to its former glory? Are you going to be so selfish as to put your own battles above that of your own people? I need all the help we can get in this war. The Salvagers need us. The Salvagers need Blake Mason’s help. The Salvagers need your help. Are you going to abandon them now?”

            Mason watched Jaden with admiration, surprised to see that the young human seemed far wiser than her age lets on. Having a newfound respect for her, he muttered out, “She is so much like her mother.”

            Tareshah heaved a heavy sigh, listening to everything Jaden said and realizing that she could be right. She scratched her head, fairly stressed out. She turned to Jaden and replied, “Alright lass. I see your point. I am sorry.”

            “I’m sorry too Tareshah. It must be hard for you to acknowledge your former enemies as your allies.”

            “It was something I hoped I never have to experience.”

            “So, Veraslag and the bounty hunters join the Liberator Alliance?”

            To answer Jaden, Tareshah approached Mason and asked for a handshake. Mason accepted it willingly and she replied, “Yeah. Just don’t try anything funny. I got a rifle.”

            “Well, you can’t kill me with that contraption but point noted.”

            Seeing them making peace, Jaden smiled with glee. Reed patted her back and commented, “That was pretty sweet! I never actually thought you could persuade a hothead like Tareshah.”

            Lucas then added, “I must say that I can see now why the Mannihilators are willing to assist us. Apparently, my triplet sister has one hell of a tongue.”

            “I’m with Lucas. I never expected that.” Markus said.

            “Thanks guys. There is enough infighting amongst us humans. It is time we put it all to a stop. Everything that Ariel taught us must never be lost.”

Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 25

Chapter 25: Behind Enemy Smiles

            “Mistress Elysia Starnova, Jaden’s crew is on our tails. They’re attempting to board my ship. The package will be delayed.”

            “How long Mason?”

            “Can’t say. If they managed to retrieve Jaden, probably forever.”

            “Do you need assistance?”

            “Nah, don’t worry. I can handle this. You go tell your sweet daddy about this alright? Just in case.”

            “I will. Be careful Mason.”

            “Hey, I’m a male siren. What’s the worst that could happen to me?”

            Blake Mason cuts off the transmission after a reassuring nod. Elysia rushed out of the communications room and ran through the hallway leading to her father’s chamber. Along the way, she barked out orders to nearby cultists, telling them to prepare for a possible reinforcing operation for Mason. The echoes of her voice jumping through the cave hideout helped in letting other nearby cultists take note. Eventually, she reached her father’s chambers, opening the automatic door before rushing in.

            Inside, she saw Dark Viper, kneeling on the floor on one leg, his katana pierced onto the ground and his head resting on the sword’s hilt. All other lightings were turned off except for a single light source on top of him, making it seemed like he was meditating. Along with that, his katana was glowing bright red, illuminating the rest of the room with a slight hint of red.

            Elysia approached her father and spoke, “Dad, I got bad news. Jaden’s crew managed to find Mason and they’ve caught up with his ship. They will probably attempt to take Jaden away from Mason, from us.”

            Dark Viper barely reacted, only silence followed.

            “Um…dad…are you busy?”

            Seconds later, he replied, “No…I’m just…trying to forget things…”

            “If this is a bad time, I will take temporary command of the cultists for you.”

            “No, that won’t be necessary Elysia. Tell me, how dire is Mason’s situation?”

            “It’s not really dire. Mason just wanted to warn us that Jaden’s crew is trying to get aboard his ship. Still, I have a bad feeling about this.”

            “Wise to trust your feelings Elysia. Mason, on the other hand, relies too much on his siren heritage. I’m guessing he refused help because he believes his invincibility will ensure Jaden won’t be rescued.”

            “Well, he is a male siren. Practically nothing can kill him.”

            “Perhaps, but Jaden’s no ordinary human. Mason clearly underestimated Jaden and her crew. Her pain resistance is abnormal and she’s crafty when she’s helpless…just like her mother.”

            “You sound pretty certain that Jaden will be rescued.”

            “I’m not certain. I know she will be…but not by her crew members.”

            “What do you mean?”

            “You’ll see. But for now, I need you to do something. Call off any attempt to reinforce Mason and tell those kids to initiate Operation SB. And, tell Agent X that Operation SB will be initiated. Don’t want him to be killing those kids.”

            “Yes dad.”

            “And Elysia…tell me…what is Iblisan doing right now?”

            “The last scout’s report says that he was back at Isla Muerta, complaining about the Liberator Alliance and about your…well…he called them your “blackouts”…whatever that means.”

            “Hmph. That Angel has one hell of a temper. Makes me glad I’m not Ariel.”

            “I somehow notice that every single time Iblisan is near you, you get a bit more aggressive. Heck, out of complete honesty, I feel sorry for Jaden. In those aggressive states, you took away a lot from her.”

            “Not everything. She’ll come to realize that pretty soon. Besides, Iblisan’s not called the Angel of Temptations for nothing. Still, I’m glad to see you at least have a heart for your enemy.”

            “Well, the last time I fought her, I tried to use her losses to demoralize her. It backfired though, made her angrier and aggressive.”

            “Hmph…just like her dad…”

*     *     *

            “Remind me again why is that bitch Kida still with us when she’s the reason why Jaden’s captured by Blake Mason.” Tareshah demanded.

            “Um…because she wants to help?” Reed answered.

            “Oh? Like how she helped Jaden?”

            “Tareshah, I don’t care if you trust me or not. I made a mistake and I want to see this through. Besides, bounty hunters are not a joke. You’re going to need all the help you can get.” Kida reassured Tareshah.

            “Fine but if we all end up in chains, don’t say I didn’t warn you all. And don’t get any funny ideas Kida. You still owe me big for turning me into this dreaded child state.” Tareshah retorted.

            “I actually like you as a child better. You’re cute even when you’re angry.”

            “Don’t test me you bloody Warlock.”

            “Alright girls, this isn’t the time to quarrel. We need to figure out a way to get into Mason’s ship.” Gavin intervened.

            “Hey Gavin, I doubt you can handle yourself with that wound on your feet. You ought to stay out of this little rescue operation.” Reed suggested.

            “No. Jaden never backed down when she tried to open my eyes back at Mannihilate. I won’t back down now that she needs us.”

            “Reed makes a valid point. Your combat effectiveness will not be at a hundred percent as long as that damage to your hardware remains. Chances of survival will be drastically reduced and it is unlikely that you can catch up to our average speed.” Vader said.

            “And you know what they say: Robots can’t lie.” Reed remarked.

            “Look Gavin, we can’t have you running in and gunning. If you still want to get involved, how about you stay and guard this ship while the rest of us rescue Jaden.” Tareshah suggested.

            “Fine. That’s better than nothing.”

            “Good, that’s decided. Moving on, how the hell are we going to get into that frigate? It is slowly accelerating and this big girl can barely catch up. How is this fair?” Reed retorted.

            Suddenly, a loud noise resembling cannon fire was heard coming from the outside, along with a slight vibration. A pair of laser cannons, coming from under the ship, flew towards Mason’s ship, missing it but barely hitting it. Several more laser cannons followed and though most of them missed, one pair hit the ship, slowing it down.

            Seconds later, a familiar voice was heard from the cockpit speakers. “Enjoying the fireworks guys?”

            “Jaina? Is that you?” Reed queried.

            “Yup. Currently enjoying this shooting range.” Several more lasers were shot, damaging the ship and effectively disabling it.

            “How the heck…since when does transport ships have guns?”

            “I thought you’re the pilot of this ship. Aren’t pilots supposed to know everything about his ship? Anyway, as it turns out, the Crimson Spinner is unique not only by name and paintjob but also for a huge laser gun installed underneath it. Vader knew about it and told me to keep it under maintenance.”

            “Say what now? You knew about this Vader?”

            “Yes Reed. The guns were installed prior to my initial meeting with you and Jaden. It is logical to install this hijacked transport ship with weaponry as a self-defense mechanism against all possible threats. Without guns, the possibility of me succeeding in my mission will drastically reduce.”

            “Ok Jaina. You had your fun but don’t destroy the ship! Remember, Jaden’s inside that ship! We don’t want to kill her!” Gavin exclaimed.

            “Relax Gavin. I was aiming for the main engine and the drive core. I was just trying to disable the ship.”

            “How’d you know where the main engine and drive core was?” Tareshah queried.

            “We Snow Mannihilators once salvaged a ship similar to the one Mason’s using. It was old and rusted but still functional so, we took it apart and studied it. I was amongst the Mannihilators taking it apart.”

            “Well, good to have you here with us. Now, we just have to board that ship and pull Jaden out of it.” Kida said.

            “We’re going in!” Reed exclaimed as he accelerated the Crimson Spinner towards Mason’s frigate, eventually slowing down as he neared it. He then observed the massive frigate, trying to find a way to get in. Eventually, he saw what seemed to be a hangar, protected by an anti-vacuum force field. Moving in closer, he realized that the hangar has enough space to land the Crimson Spinner in it.

            Knowing that anti-vacuum force fields would not block physical objects, Reed flew the Crimson Spinner through it. Several bounty hunters, previously unseen due to the illuminating force field, opened fire at the Crimson Spinner. While none of the bullets penetrated the ship, the crew took cover nonetheless. Reed landed the ship successfully and the crew, except for Gavin, immediately rushed out of the Crimson Spinner to stop the bounty hunters from damaging it.

            Tareshah jumped out of the loading ramp and shot her massive assault rifle at the bounty hunters, killing one of them. Kida summoned her demon minion, A’trus Hathgrave, and threw a barrage of shadow bolts at the enemy while Hathgrave ran in to strike. Reed and Vader then walked out to provide cover fire while Jaina, still garrisoning the installed gun, shot smaller laser cannons at the bounty hunters. Eventually, the bounty hunters in the hangar were eliminated.

            Jaina, realizing that the area was clear, left the gun and exited the Crimson Spinner, helping a limping Gavin along the way.

            “You’ve been kind to me Jaina. You’d make a fine Templar in the future. Once this is all over, Mistress Sierra will know of your contribution to this cause.”

            “Aww come now Gavin. I’m just helping out. Besides, you were the Lord of the tropical Mannihilators. It wouldn’t feel right if I refuse to help the man who could’ve been my leader if things were different.”

            “What do you mean by ‘if things were different’?”

            “My mother was a Mannihilator from Omega City. She came to the snowy side of Mannihilate in an attempt to find a rare herb which grows only in cold climates. I don’t really know for what though. She succumbed to the cold and was found by one of us Snow Mannihilators, who would eventually be her husband and my dad.”

            “She stayed with the Snow Mannihilators and never returned?”

            “Well, she did talk a lot about Omega City and sometimes wished to return. She ‘s fine with Machina Bunker but misses her home nonetheless.”

            “How is she now?”

            “She passed away. A bad disease claimed her life. And my dad? He was out hunting when an angry bear killed him.”

            “I’m sorry to hear that.”

            “Well, that’s life. People come and people go. Still…I do miss them.”

            “So, if she actually returned to Omega City…”

            “I’d probably have a different dad, an actual hair and eye color, a different life and a proud citizen of Omega City.”

            “Probably. I’m just glad it turns out the way it is now.”

            “Yup. You can’t unmake how things end up.”

            Eventually, Jaina and Gavin reached the rest of the crew, who were discussing on how they were going to handle the rescue operation.

            “Ah good. Jaina and Gavin are here. We can start now.” Tareshah said.

            “Alright, we are now in this massive piece of shit. Jaden’s in there somewhere and she could be anywhere in this big ship.” Reed started.

            “Are you proposing we split up?” Kida asked.

            “That would probably be a good idea but then again, bounty hunters are everywhere and if we’re outnumbered, we’d probably get killed. We’re dealing with trained killers here.”

            “Reed has a point. If we split up, we are less effective in dealing with any opposition we face. And besides, this child body can’t run for long while carrying a big gun.”

            “But walking together would mean that we would take a much longer time to reach Jaden. Who knows what Mason’s doing to her now? I’m now the guiltiest girl in this hangar.”

            “You won’t take too long.” A voice said, coming from the doorway leading to the rest of the ship. The party turned to the voice and saw two young men, one dressed in a black robe and unarmed while the other was clad in leathery armor with a greatsword in hand. The duo has the same facial feature, aside from their hairstyle, implying that they were related. Suspecting that they may be bounty hunters, the party raised their weapons and aimed at the duo while Hathgrave made threatening grunts.

            “Who are you two?” Reed queried.

            “We’re not bounty hunters…not really at least.”

            “Well then, what are your names?”

            The armored one replied, “My name’s Lucas. Lucas Highland. And this is my triplet brother, Markus Highland.”

            Upon hearing their names, Reed felt something ring in his head.

            “Lucas? Markus? Highland? Wait…you two are Jaden’s triplet brothers?”

            “I knew their faces looked familiar!” Kida exclaimed.

*     *     *

            “Commander Mason, the enemy has infiltrated our ship. They’re in the hangar.”

            “Stop them. Make sure they don’t reach the cockpit.”

            “Yes Commander.”

            Mason ended the transmission and turned to Jaden, realizing that she had been staring at him with a confounded look on her face.

            “Why are you looking at me like that?”

            “Commander Mason…I heard that before…”

            “You speak as if you knew of me.”

            “Wait, I remember now! My mother used to tell stories about my dad. He was close friends with a Commander Mason. That can’t be you, can it?”

            “Huh? Wait, who are your parents?”

            “Glacier Highland and Blaze Hazard.”

            “What? So, you’re Glacier’s daughter?”

            “So you are the Commander Mason my mother kept talking about! I can’t believe this! You betrayed the Salvagers alongside Dark Viper!”

            “Wait, hold on! Glacier told me that her daughter died at birth! How can it be that you, Jaden Highland, be her daughter?”

            “I never died! I was born along with my triplet brothers, Markus and Lucas!”

            “Markus and Lucas were her only surviving children! She never told me about you!”

            “Hey, I lived with my family ever since I was born! There is absolutely no way that I am lying about my heritage!”

            “But why would Glacier lie to me? She’s a sweet and honest woman.”

            “Looking at what you are doing, I’m not surprised. You’re helping the man that killed her husband! You turned against us all!”

            “Your dad isn’t…”

            “And thanks to you, she’s dead!”

            Jaden’s words silenced Mason. He froze with awe with his jaw dropped, shock to discover the fate of a woman which he seemed to know and care about. His hands trembled lightly and he slowly let out a heavy sigh.

            “She’s…she’s dead? Glacier Highland…the sweetest girl I ever met…dead?”

            As Jaden listened, she could not help but assume that Mason cared for her now deceased mother. She then managed a reply, “Yes Mason…she’s dead. Viper killed her.”

            “Why would he?”

            “He’s a monster Mason! Looking at everything he and Iblisan did, I thought you would’ve seen that by now!”

            Mason reached out for the cockpit desk, struggling to stand up and appearing very distraught. He rubbed his forehead while his body was restless.

            “And you’re her daughter?” Mason managed as he turned to look at Jaden.

            “Yes Mason and I mean it. I am not lying.”

            He continued staring at Jaden, seemingly unsure whether or not to believe her. Eventually he made up his mind.

            He stood up and began walking out of the cockpit. “I don’t believe this shit. I’m not listening to any more crap from you.”

            “What? Mason, I am not lying!”

            “I don’t believe you!” Mason shouted as he turned to Jaden. “Glacier is not dead! Viper did not kill her! And you are not her daughter! I refuse to believe all this!”

            “I am not lying!” Jaden exclaimed as she struggled against her binds. Before she could say anymore, Mason closed the door, leaving her tied up and alone.

            “God damn it!” Jaden cursed, infuriated that Commander Mason, a man which was mentioned several times by her mother in her stories, had fallen so far from grace. She was also angry that Mason refused to believe her, even though she knew no one else as her parents and was there to see Viper stabbing Glacier and ending her life. In fact, she remembered the traumatizing memory so well; she began losing control of herself, shouting loudly while still struggling against her restraints.

            As her anger poured out, she began to feel exhausted. Realizing that her emotions are getting out of hand, she closed her eyes and entered a meditative trance, unwilling to suffer the effects of Magical Overflow. Thus, she calmed down and met up with her Light and Dark Magical Energies.

*     *     *

            “So I see Jaden’s been talking about us.” Lucas said.

            “Yeah and she said you two were as dead as dead can be.” Reed retorted.

            “We too thought that she was dead, until news began to spread about how she bested Dark Viper in a duel.  Who would’ve guessed that?” Markus replied.

            “And, why are you two in a bounty hunter frigate?” Tareshah queried.

            “We went into hiding after Viper destroyed our home. We thought that hiding amongst trained killers would be a good idea. So, we offered to join them and here we are.” Lucas answered.

            “You have no qualms about Mason taking your sister hostage?” Reed asked.

            “We didn’t know about it until Mason made the announcement himself. Heck, Lucas and I barely paid any attention to those wanted posters. When we heard she was caught, we decided to follow Mason and wait for the right time.”

            “The right time to free your sister?”

            “Yup. We’ve never liked these locos. And since you all are here, I say we help you out” Lucas added.

            “Well alright then. How exactly are you two going to help?” Reed questioned.

            “We know where Mason keeps Jaden. She’s at the bridge, inside the cockpit. We know how to get there so if you all can follow our lead, we’ll take you to her.” Lucas explained.

            “And bounty hunters we meet along the way?” Tareshah retorted.

            “Kill them. And don’t worry. We won’t hesitate to kill them too.” Markus answered.

            “Alright then. Gavin, you stay by the ship. Keep the bounty hunters away from my baby.” Reed ordered.

            “Reed, I want to stay with Gavin.” Jaina requested.

            “You sure?”

            “Yes. He can’t defend the ship alone, not with an injured leg.”

            “Alright. You two Mannihilators look after the ship. Radio us if you’re in trouble. Don’t get too close you two…we have security cameras”

            “Come on. Let’s go. Anticipate ambushes ahead since they know you’re here.” Lucas said before running into the hallway with Markus and the crew in tow.

            Reed and party followed the Highland brothers, running past maze-like hallways and turning corners constantly. Considering the large number of doors along the hallways, Reed assumed that the hallways were the crew quarters. Eventually, they came upon steps and the party climbed up after Lucas and Markus.

            Once up, the group encountered a few bounty hunters, entrenched in a large room and taking cover behind overturned tables. Initially, they appeared docile when seeing Lucas and Markus but as Reed reached the top, they opened fired, shocking Reed and caused him to lose balance. He leaned backwards while waving his arms trying to regain balance. He would have fallen, however, if it were not for Vader, pushing Reed back into balance.

            “I guess I owe you one you bloody tin can.”

            “I am not bloody Reed. I am a…”

            “Alright! Synthetics are bloodless. I get it. Now let’s get to the fighting.”

            Despite giving the element of surprise, the bounty hunters themselves were surprised to see Lucas, charging at them threateningly with his massive sword in hands while Markus began charging his hands with electrical Dark Energies. Before they could attack their former allies, the Highland brothers quickly wiped them out.

            The noise, however, attracted more bounty hunters to the scene. “Get ready fellas! We’re going to be doing a bit of fighting here!” Lucas shouted to the crew. As he turned to one of the hallways, a bounty hunter charged at him with a mace in hand. Smirking with pride, Lucas raised his greatsword above his head and, with the full might of his strength, slammed the massive blade onto the metallic floor, creating a shockwave which erupted towards the bounty hunter. The force tossed the unlucky main into the ceiling, hard enough to kill him.

            “This ought to be fun…”

*     *     *

            Jaden continued to meditate, unwilling to open her eyes even though the ship was beginning to get noisy with all the gunfire and occasional tremors. Regardless, due to the revelation of Mason’s identity, Jaden dreamt of when her mother told her the stories of Commander Mason and his heroic acts. She recalled how proud Glacier was of Commander Mason and how it would seem that she would never believe what Mason has become. A tear almost left her eyes; sad to see a great man now siding with a murderer.

            “Commander Mason! Commander Mason, do you copy?”

            A voice from the intercom awoke Jaden.

            “Commander! Are you there? It’s the two new recruits! They’ve turned against us!”

            Suddenly, the door opened and Mason rushed in. He approached the intercom and replied, “Repeat. What’s the situation?”

            “It’s the two recruits! They’re tearing us apart!”

            “What? Why? Weren’t they supposed to…”

            “Commander, I think…we’ve just been double-crossed.”

            “Damn that bastard!”

            While Mason was talking, Jaden shook her arms slightly, attempting to feel how thick her binds were. Realizing that the wire used to tie her up was not as thick as conventional ropes, she placed her fingers on the wire and closed her eyes. Slowly, her fingers began to glow blue and eventually, blue flames erupted from her them. The flames, powered by her Light Energies, began to intensify to the point that the entire wire burned to ash in an instant. Fortunately, being the caster, Jaden was spared the same fate.

            As Mason continued to order and advise him men, Jaden stood up and silently approached him.

            “Listen; try to keep them at bay. I’ll get my arms and support you.” Mason said, ending the transmission. He turned around and was shocked to see Jaden standing free in front of him. She raised her fist and punched him hard in the face. While he could not feel pain, the force knocked him back.

            “How’d you like that you son of a…”

            “I’m a male siren remember? As in, invincible.”

            “So you don’t know pain? I’ll teach you pain.”

            Jaden attempted a high kick but Mason grabbed her leg shoved it away. He threw in a jab which Jaden was able dodge. She countered by punching him in the face three times but it seemed to not affect him at all as he merely rubbed his face and smiled back.

            “I’m immune to pain Jaden. Don’t waste your energy. By the way, how’d you free yourself?”

            “You’d be surprised by how fast I learn a new spell through meditation. By the way, are you immune to betrayals?”

            “What are you talking about?”

            “I overheard parts of your conversation. I’m guessing Dark Viper double-crossed you.”

            “Maybe he did, but regardless, nothing can kill me, not even Viper himself.”

            “But why side with him in the first place? He already betrayed the Salvagers, my people. Why disgrace the good name you made for yourself?”

            “It is not that simple you simpleton. I can’t betray my friend.”

            “Like how he just betrayed you? Like how you betrayed my mother? You were hiding in that warehouse, paranoid to no end while Viper trudged into my home and murdered everyone but me.”

            “I didn’t betray Glacier!”

            Furious, Mason jabbed Jaden square in her head, knocking her back.

            “And you are not her daughter! Her daughter is dead!”

            He kicked Jaden on her abdomen and clubbed her onto the floor.

            “I am not lying!”

            Jaden brought her hands up and began to electrocute Mason with Dark Energies. It did not affect him in any way but the surprise attack forced him back. As Jaden stood up, the electricity intensified and the glow on her eyes were so bright, it penetrated her blindfold.

            “I’ve been trying to tell you this whole time! My name is Jaden Highland! I am the daughter of Glacier Highland and Blaze Hazard! I am the only survivor of my family and I formed the Liberator Alliance to wreak vengeance upon Dark Viper and Iblisan for their crimes! I have not come this far to argue with you and I have no reason to sacrifice my honor by hiding behind a lie!”

            She then ceased her casting while breathing heavily, exhausted by her exertions.

            “My mother told me a lot about you. She spoke with so much pride, so much compassion and she tends to smile talking about you, something which rarely happens. She called you a friend, a brother-in-arms, an honorable soldier, a hero. She even expressed how jealous my dad was since she always talked about you! And now, she’s dead because you were not there to protect her! Some hero you are! She would’ve been depressed to see you in this state!”

            Mason merely stood and listened, not knowing how to react.

            “Heck, for a moment, I actually liked listening to her talking about you. It is through those stories that I learned a few terms related to ships. It is through those stories that I realized that my father wasn’t the only extraordinary man of his time. No one can deny that you’ve defeated a battalion of invading elves, the Sunriders, and lived to tell about it. Although, of course, no one knew you were a male siren. What happened to that Mason? I may have actually admired you!”

            “I see…only someone like Glacier would know of that…”

            “And if I have to repeat myself, I will. She’s…”

            “Your mother…I can see that now. I guess…I was misinformed. You’re truly her daughter and not dead.”

            Jaden and Mason merely stood and stared at each other, the former satisfied that the latter finally believed her while the latter no longer wish to fight the former. Calmed down, Jaden’s eye glow began to dim.

            Moments later, a voice sounded on the intercom, “Commander, they’re reaching the cockpit! They’re heading your way!”

            “Men, stand down. I don’t want any more of you killed.”

            “What? Are you sure Commander?”

            “Yes. Stand down.”

            Jaden, surprised by his words, queried, “Stand down? You’re surrendering?”

            Mason looked back at Jaden with sad pair of eyes and replied, “I made a vow. I don’t intend on breaking it now.”

            The door behind Jaden opened and a pair of men ran in with a large crew behind them. Jaden turned and jumped into a fighting stance, not willing to fall unprepared. However, her fists lowered as she realized something familiar about the two men.

            “Lucas? Markus? Is that you?”

            “Jaden…you’re alright…” Lucas replied.

            “Dammit Jaden you had us worried.” Markus added.