Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 30

Chapter 30: Confessions of an Ohmni Knight

            Jaden marched straight to the briefing room, where all the non-human leaders, along with Lady Nora and Mistress Sierra, had gathered. As she walked in, all of them turned their heads to face her. She walked to the table where they were occupying to start the meeting.

            “So, now that we are all on the same page, anyone have any bright ideas?” Jaden asked.

            “Not yet Jaden. This civil war has just only begun.” Lady Nora answered.

            “The term ‘civil war’ may be appropriate to you humans but remember that we’re involved now. This is a full-scale war to us, as we are an outside party.” Magariela retorted.

            “Well, I guess the first thing we can do is to gather our fleets in preparation for attacks by the Cult of Iblisan. If I were him, attacking us would be the first thing on my mind.” Sierra said.

            “But, we Mannihilators only have fighter and bomber ships. We don’t have a full fleet.” Nora mentioned.

            “Leave that to us. We’ll cover the skies while your people cover the ground.” Sierra answered.

            “How long will it take for all of you to prepare your navy?”

            “Considering the fact that we’re nowhere near our home planets, it could possibly take over a month. Probably a day or two to transport us back home and the weeks that follows to organize our navies and bring our civilians to safety.” Zian replied.

            “If I were to make a guess, Iblisan would be preparing for his assault right now. If we don’t hurry back, we may not be ready to fight his cultists.” Vael added.

            “If I may add to your exchange of inputs, I have a possible solution to your current problem.” Vader said through the intercom. “Through my long-range infiltration systems, I was able to retrieve the schematics of Blake Mason’s extreme range radio. Jaina helped install a small modification using the schematics which allows this unit to behave as a portable extreme range communication device.”

            “Wait, so that means we can use the VX Synthetic to call in our ships which would bring us back to our world.” Yoren pointed out.

            “Yes. Using this unit as a communication hub is user-friendly but should you encounter any issues pertaining to using it, please consult Snow Mannihilator human, Jaina Loruit for assistance.”

            “Before we even do that, we’re still in hostile territory. Vader, fly us far from Nibelheim. We don’t want the Crimson Spinner to attract the attention of a cultist dreadnought.” Jaden ordered.

            “Acknowledged.”

            “So, it is settled then. You all return to your home planets and prepare a defense for the time being. After that, we’ll take the fight to the Cult of Iblisan.”

            “We may not be ready to launch a proper assault upon the cultist fleet or Dissidia after their initial wave so we need to prepare for anything that comes.” Zian pointed out. “Keep in touch Jaden. We’ll let you know should we need any help. We’ll do what we can to support your cause.” In response, the other leaders nodded.

            “Alright then. Once Vader gave the green light, go ahead and contact your ships. I’ll tell Jaina to standby should any of you all need help.”

            With a singular nod, all the leaders left the table and began to wander about the ship, waiting patiently for Vader to give them the go-ahead to contact their people. The siren representative, however, remained at the table, staring at Jaden who also remained by the table.

            “Is there a problem siren?” Jaden asked.

            “Pardon me Ms. Highland. While we approve of your cause and support you, we are forbidden from leaving our home planet, Sarnyr, or getting involved militarily in a full-scale war. We need the approval of our goddess before we are allowed to send our warriors to join your soldiers in combat.” the siren representative answered.

            “What goddess do you speak of siren?”

            “We sirens worship a goddess. Her Majesty, Asura, the Goddess of Life and Death. She is unlike your God of Creation in that she dictates our very lives and determines whether or not we are allowed to do something. Often, we would have to ask her for her approval before we could act.”

            “She dictates your lives and controls your decisions? She sounds like a tyrant to me.”

            “It is a common misunderstanding amongst mortals with freewill that Asura is a tyrant, or inexistent. But, know this Jaden. She watches over us all with a fair hand and she cares for our well-being, often declining any of our requests which she deemed too dangerous to others or ourselves, even with our invincibility. She is like an ancestral mother to us all and we love her just as she loves us. Most importantly, she’s a goddess. Iblisan is an angel, an agent of the gods. She knows about Iblisan far more than any of us here.”

            “If Iblisan is an agent of the gods, why would she oppose him? I doubt she would agree to send you all to fight one of her agents.”

            “Despite her title, Asura does not have any angels as her agent. Iblisan is, in particular, an agent of the God of Creation. Nonetheless, being a goddess, she knows the Fallen Angel just as much as the God of Creation. And now that Iblisan has threatened to harm us all, and even made an assassination attempt on me, Asura might be more willing to fight against the God of Creation’s agent.”

            “And wouldn’t that anger the God of Creation?”

            “Perhaps. Asura is never one to follow orders. In addition, Asura herself despises Iblisan for enslaving the humans. We do not share her sympathies but from her eyes, it was like watching some of her children get abducted and turned into slaves. You humans are, after all, our closest cousins despite our racial difference.”

            “Is that why she sends you to the summit rather than coming herself?”

            “Yes. She knew that Iblisan was attending and she do not wish to face the Angel of Temptations.”

            “Glad to see that your goddess care about my people. Alright, once the rest of the leaders have left, we’ll make our way to your home planet to seek out your goddess.”

            “Thank you Ms. Highland. We have high expectations of you. Asura would be pleased to meet a competent female human such as yourself.” the siren representative said with a bow.

            “Do you have a name? You never properly introduced yourself.” Jaden asked out of curiosity.

            “I do but my name is not of any importance. If you have any need of a name, just call me ‘Emissary’.”

            “As you wish.”

*     *     *

            Jaden rubbed a sharpening stone across her katana, intending to keep it sharp and preparing it for the coming war. Bringing it to the base of the blade and rubbing it hard along it, she eliminating any jagged edges and kept it smooth and razor-sharp. As she flipped it to the other side, she spotted a familiar carving on the blade. She stroked it, feeling it upon her fingers, while reading it out loud.

            “I love you, my dear Highland.”

            Reading it out made her remember her mother reading the carving out loud while sharpening the blade years ago. It was one of the times when Glacier was recalling her fond memories with her lover, Blaze Hazard, and Jaden remembered it well enough. As she continued to rub the carving, she began to ask herself questions.

            “Did dad made these carvings? If so, does it mean that this blade was a gift for mother? How old is this blade? What made this katana so durable? Does mother really pass it down to me without a second thought? Am I worthy enough to hold a blade originally held by my dad?”

            Her mind lingered as she thought for an answer, wondering if the carvings had anything to do with the sword’s incredible durability.

            “Come to think of it, this katana and I are not too different.” Jaden told herself. “We went through pain together, we were made to endure pain from the start, we fought through all obstacles thrown at us and we’re still not done yet.” Jaden then sheathed her katana, done sharpening her sword.

            Jaden stood and head for the cargo hold, intending to find out just how much sharpening stones were left. As she walked past the med bay, she heard a familiar voice saying, “Talking to your own sword huh? Completely forget that you have living, breathing company?”

            Jaden halted in her tracks and turned to the med bay. She recoiled as she saw Reed, awake and alive, smiling at her while still laying on the bed. A beaming smile formed on her face as she was overjoyed to see him awake and well.

            “Reed! You’re awake!” Jaden exclaimed as she ran in and hugged him. Shocked by her reaction, Reed retracted and said, “Alright Jaden! I love being hugged by women but this is a bit too tight! Easy girl!” Hearing his words, she released him, allowing him to catch his breath.

            “I didn’t realize you were that worried about me. Relax. I’m not dead yet.”

            “Sorry, I’m just…after seeing you getting stabbed by Viper…”

            “I always knew that you couldn’t live without me! I bet you’d drown in your own tears once I’m gone!” Reed muttered out.

            Jaden chuckled before saying, “Whatever…I’m still glad to see you awake.”

            “Heh and in all honesty, I never actually thought I would wake up. This wouldn’t be the first time though.”

            “Really? You had many close call incidents?”

            “Being a wanted man, of course.”

            “Which reminds me Reed…” Jaden said with her smile diminished in an instant. Reed noticed it and knew that he was not going to like what he was about to hear.

            “Reed, when I first met you, you said that there is a bounty on your head because you caused a lot of trouble for Iblisan. Recently, I’ve been hearing a lot things about what you truly did that gave you the bounty. You…killed innocents…killed civilians and Salvager remnants and many more…It’s not true…is it?”

            Reed remained silent, hesitant to say anything. Jaden watched and notice the change in expression on his face, unorthodox for him. “Reed?” she called out as she nudged him. “Tell me. Is it true?”

            Once again, he refused to answer. He turned away from Jaden and faced the wall. Becoming rather curious, Jaden attempted to read his mind but was unsuccessful when she realized that his mind was walled off by some kind of mental barrier. Recalling her Magical Energies training, she remembered that such a barrier will only form when one’s mind is heavily occupied, under huge duress or when suffering from Magical Overflow.

            “Reed, is there something you’re hiding from me?” Jaden asked while placing a hand on his shoulder. “Please tell me. We’re friend aren’t we? You can trust me with a secret, even a dark one.” she reassured him. He heaved a deep sigh, trying to regain his composure.

            “Fine, if it stops you from pestering me. Just, promise me you won’t tell anyone else. I’m not proud of my past and I don’t care if the others got it all wrong.” Reed said as he turned to face Jaden. She nodded and said, “I promise. I only want to know because I’m concerned.”

            “We’ll see if you still show such concerns for me once you know of what I did.” Reed replied, as if telling her a warning.

            “You remember everything I told you before about my past? About how Viper destroyed my village and that I got separated from my sister while escaping? Well, I never lied about that. We got separated when a few of Viper’s men found us. I asked little Marian to run while I kept them busy, used nothing but my fists to hold them off while my sister ran as fast as she could.”

            “Your fists? You didn’t have any weapons?” Jaden asked as she sat on his bed, thinking that his story may be long.

            “No. Marian and I escaped with nothing but our lives and our clothes. Fortunately, my dad trained me in using my fists and guns. It served me well. I beat them up pretty bad and I was just…hmm…fifteen at that time while Marian was thirteen. Viper was there, simply watching as I overpower his men who were armed with swords. He eventually restrained me with Dark Tentacles to cease the fighting. Rather than kill me, he offered me to become his apprentice, impressed with my skills.”

            “You didn’t accept it, did you?”

            “At first, no. He killed my parents and I wasn’t happy with that. But, he then explained his reasons for destroying my village. He came to find someone there who he sensed had a high Energy level. The village leader violently rejected, refusing to collaborate with a lieutenant of Iblisan and he was forced to fight back in self-defense. When more of the militia came, he ordered his men to purge the village, sparing the youths as the one he was looking for was a youngling. Turns out, he was looking for me and he said I have a bright future ahead.”

            “You didn’t fall for that did you?”

            “He sounded rather convincing, as if he really believed what he was saying. He promised to look after me and any other youths who survived the purge, including my sister. I ended up accepting his offer only because he promised protection.”

            “Funny. People keep saying that he never leaves survivors behind. Yet, as I spoke to people who knew him, including you and Kida, he actually does leave behind survivors. Was it all nothing but lies and exaggerations?”

            “All this talk of Dark Viper leaving no survivors behind is actually an exaggeration. He does indeed leave behind survivors when he attacks, especially unarmed civilians or youths. The thought that he leaves behind no survivors came from his undefeated duel streak. He never lost a duel before and those who duel him normally end up getting killed by him. Hence, people thought he never spare anyone when he attacks. You’re, by far, the one and only person known to defeat him in a duel.”

            “I see. No wonder why it is such a big deal. I admit, he’s a very skilled Bladesman. So, you became one of Viper’s apprentice?”

            “Alongside his daughter, Elysia, and another village boy, Maverick.”

            “So that’s how you recognize Elysia when we first encountered her on Mannihilate. She doesn’t seem to react to your presence though.”

            “Well, I only remembered her because she’s a hot, sexy young lady. On the other hand, she paid little attention to me and probably doesn’t remember me. Besides, she’s Viper’s daughter. I never want to cross her father.”

            “How about Kida? She was an agent of Viper, possibly an apprentice too.”

            “Never saw her before our mission on Qurrentine. I’m guessing he trains her telepathically. He had apprentices that he trained from a distance. I’m pretty sure Kida isn’t the only one.”

            “Alright. So, what happened then?”

            “I became his apprentice and after my Proving, I unlocked the Magical Energies within me, which was Fire Energy by the way. Viper then inserted Dark Energy into me after contacting the Dark Energy Spirit and then trained me in using the Dark Energies. Once that was done, he trained me to use a katana using the Reverse Grip fighting style, making me a Dark Energy Bladesman.”

            “What? You were trained in the Reverse Grip too?”

            “Surprised?”

            “Of course. I’ve never seen you use a sword. Heck, you even said that you are afraid of swords.”

            “And there’s a reason for that but I’ll get to that in a while.”

            “Hmph, now you’re just making me curious.”

            “Precisely what I wanted. Anyway, during some of my training sessions, I asked Viper about the surviving youths from my village. He said his men found some and kept them safe but my sister was still missing. He even brought me to those his men found and unexpectedly, he kept his word. They were safe, unharmed and protected, living amongst other civilians and watched over by guardians.”

            “That’s…kind of him.”

            “You can say that again. So, moving on. After about four years of training, Iblisan began assaulting the Mannihilators, first using his human cultists and later, sending in his dark angels. All those attempts failed, so he ordered Viper to send some of his human followers into the Mannihilator ranks as sleeper agents. Maverick and I were assigned that role. I was pretty enthusiastic as I never seen Mannihilators before and I wanted to see how they live.”

            “Yet you complied when you are ordered to destroy them from within?”

            “Do I have a choice? As kind as Viper was to me, he’s still a powerful man and if I refuse, that’s probably when his kindness ends. Ultimately, I’m nothing but a tool to him.”

            “So, he sent you two in to become Ohmni Knights?”

            “Actually, he sent us to Omega City to assassinate their Lord, Anders Nightfall, when his people least expect it. After all, they were accepting refugees and Maverick and I fit that role due to our youth. After infiltrating their ranks, we learned of their Ohmni Knights, the main reason why all of Iblisan’s attacks failed. Their anti-Magic capabilities shredded the cultist and the dark angels. That was when Viper ordered us to go through their Ohmni Knight training.”

            “And the Mannihilators had no idea you two were Viper’s agents?”

            “Precisely why you should not tell Gavin about this. He’ll kill me. Oh, and don’t tell Jaina too. She already hates me as it is.”

            “So, what happen then?”

            “I became an Ohmni Knight, sacrificing my Dark and Fire Energies for Omega Energies. I received training and was even awarded the armor. You know, the one Lady Nora was wearing when you first met her. Oh, and speaking of Nora, she was an Ohmni Knight-in-training, like me.”

            “Really? That explains much.”

            “Eventually, Viper telepath me, saying that his men discovered a Salvager, hiding amongst the civilians on Qurrentine, killing his and Iblisan’s men. This Salvager angered Iblisan to the point on placing a bounty on her head and Viper wanted me to get involved. Hence, Maverick remained behind while I travelled to Qurrentine to hunt down this Salvager. I spent weeks hunting this person down. When I found this Salvager, I was shocked to learn who it was.”

            “Who was the Salvager?”

            “The Salvager turns out to be my sister, Marian Robinson, no longer the little girl I know but rather, a grown-up, beautiful young lady. It had been six years since I last saw her. She was the Salvager who had been killing Viper and Iblisan’s men. At first, I couldn’t believe it and I assumed that the woman merely looked like my sister. But, I then learned that she became a Light Energy Bladesman after receiving training from another Salvager remnant. I retracted while she ran to me, hugging me. I never hugged her for a very long time then. She missed me.”

            “Did you…kill her?”

            “I didn’t want to. She’s my little sister, only nineteen years old. She was happy to see me alive and her smile warmed my heart. She asked me a lot questions but I never answered them, too conflicted to. I always wanted to be reunited with her but, if I don’t kill her, Viper would kill me and probably kill the rest of the survivors from our village. Eventually, she read my mind and learned the truth.”

            “How did she react?”

            “She was disappointed, sad to see me become Viper’s apprentice. Her blue eyes became teary as she wailed at me while scratching her long blonde hair. My silence angered her even more. And then, I made my decision. I pulled out my katana and enchanted it with Dark Energies. She immediately knew why I was there and she prepared herself. We fought…to the death.”

            “Oh my! What happened then?”

            “During the fight, I threw a grenade at her. She grabbed it and threw it back at me. The grenade exploded right next to me and burned half of my body. I was in severe pain and I was dying. My sights began to blur and my mind began to fade. I thought that was it for me. Still, I was willing to accept that death for attempting to kill my own sister. I consider it a punishment. As I lay there, she stood next to me while looking down on me, deep in thought. Slowly, a smile formed on her face. The smile was the only thing calming me down and making me ignore the pain. It was a smile I used to see far more often. And then, her body began to glow blue. She was casting a spell.”

            “What spell?”

            “I didn’t know at first. But, as the glow intensified, I felt the pain around my body simply…fading away…as if my body was healed. The numbness was gone, I was able to move my limbs and the pain was just…not there anymore. I sat up and felt energized. My body was completely healed with whatever spell my sister casted. I stood up to check my whole body and was beginning to feel excited over my survival. Then, I heard a loud thud behind me, where my sister my standing. She collapsed onto the floor…dead.”

            “She died? What happened?”

            “I was shocked to see her limp on the floor. I shook her several times and checked her pulse. She was dead. That was when I realized that the spell she casted was a powerful Light Energy spell known as Life Transfer. She gave up her own life-force to replenish mine, which was dying. In a way, I’m living on borrowed time. She’s now a part of me. Her death devastated me.”

            “Reed I…I’m sorry…I don’t know what to say.” Jaden said, placing a hand on Reed’s shoulder.

            “I lost my little sister that day. I wept for hours. I was very pathetic. People living nearby thought that I killed her. Rather, she saved my life, dying in the process. As I left to report back to Viper, several civilians attacked me, saying how she had saved their lives and now they’re returning the favor. I let them beat me up. It was nothing more than I deserve. When I returned to Viper and told him the Salvager’s identity, he apologized, saying he had no idea.”

            “He actually apologized to you?”

            “He promised to find my sister and protect her. I assume he felt guilty since he did not live up to his promise. Still, I was angry at him for making me hunt her down. I returned to Omega City and continued my previous assignment. When I returned, Maverick argued with me, saying that he knew what truly happened and that I should be ashamed of letting myself get beaten by a Salvager. I challenged him to a duel to proof that I’m stronger but I…forfeited.”

            “Why did you forfeit a duel you started?”

            “When I pulled out my katana, I…remembered the time I pulled it out before fighting with Marian. The sight of my hand holding the sword’s hilt was traumatizing and I tossed the sword away, forfeiting the duel. This angered Maverick even further, causing him to succumb to Magical Overflow. Unlike me, he never completed his Ohmni Knight training so he still has his Dark Energies. While under the influence of his Magical Energies, he began taking orders from Iblisan and, I think you know what happens after that.”

            “Yeah. He assaulted Omega City and managed to kill Anders Nightfall. You were then driven out.”

            “Indeed. The sight of my sister’s body continued to haunt me so I decided I had enough. As I returned to Viper’s lair with a gun and a lot of ammo, I freed the survivors from my village, killing any guards who were ‘protecting’ them. Viper realized my betrayal and ordered them to kill me. I held the line while the survivors escaped and Viper then decided to take matters into his own hands. He chased me down as I fled, throwing Dark Lightning bolts at me. When I ran into the wilderness, he stopped and did not give chase. I was free.”

            “What happened then?”

            “I decided to find a place to live. I tried Qurrentine, only to learn that a bounty was placed on my head. Turns out, the bounty was placed by the civilians there, not Iblisan or Viper. The people of Qurrentine had a huge amount of respect for Marian and they never forgave me for being involved in her death. Now, almost every Qurrentine sees me as a dangerous killer and murderer. About a year later, I met you.”

            “Wow. I really had no idea your life was like that. I didn’t even suspect that you had any connection with Dark Viper.”

            “The odd thing is that the bounty specified me as an Energy Bladesman. Because I never lifted a sword anymore, people are sometimes convinced that I am not the Reed Robinson on the bounty posters. I often use that to escape bounty hunters.”

            “So, everything that people say about you murdering a lot innocent people was false then?”

            “Yup, it’s false. The part about Iblisan being responsible for the bounty was also false. I have a bad reputation on Qurrentine and I’m fortunate since I can hide as long as I don’t shout out my name.”

            “Thanks for sharing Reed. I appreciate your willingness in sharing your past with me.”

            Reed looked down, appearing sad, with a frown on his face. He then turned away from Jaden before saying, “I never wanted to tell anyone about my past. I’m not proud of it. Marian’s dead because she wanted to keep me alive.”

            “She’s a part of you now. She’s inside you.” Jaden said while stroking his arm, trying to calm him down.

            “I’m the one who is supposed to be dead. I don’t think I’m even worthy of her life-force. She brought more happiness to this world than I could do in a lifetime.”

            “Are you sure?” Jaden asked. “You kept me company, you saved my life not too long ago and you certainly brought smiles into my face at times. Heck, you’re now a part of a rebellion hell-bent on liberating the same people that your sister tried to save. You’re far more worthy than you give yourself credit for.”

            Reed remained silent, thinking about her words deep in his thoughts.

            “Reed…she loves you even after learning about your connection with Dark Viper. She knew there was still some good in you, enough that she was willing to give up her life for you. She knows you as the same Reed Robinson that she knew before that day. Honor her sacrifice Reed. That’s the least you could do.”

            “And how am I supposed to do that?” Reed asked as he turned to Jaden, demanding an answer.

            “Live on and fight for the Salvagers. What else?”

            Her answer silenced Reed once more. He stared at Jaden with a neutral glare while she added, “My friends and family gave up so much to keep me and my brothers alive. They’re dead now and there’s nothing I can do to bring them back. But, I can honor their sacrifice by surviving and saving the people who they were protecting in their earlier years. We’re not so different Reed.”

            Reed continued to look at Jaden, once again deep into his thoughts. Suddenly, a smile began to form on his face and out of the blue, he laughed. Jaden, startled by his reaction, exclaimed, “What? Why are you laughing? What’s so funny?”

            “You’re so much like Marian…I can’t even begin to say how.” Reed managed as he tried to stop laughing. “I mean…you look very different from her, probably hotter, bustier and sexier but…you’re a lot like Marian. In many ways…you remind me of her.” he added as he began to calm down.

            “I’m guessing that’s why you wanted to accompany me right from the beginning.”

            “Yeah…I see a lot of my sister in you…even though I knew you only for a few hours at that time.”

            Jaden and Reed continued staring at each other with an awkward silence. The duo smiled at each other, paying no attention to their surroundings. Their eyelids felt heavier and their smiles became warmer. They tilted their heads side to side while their shoulders rose with seeming blush. Their teeth bore frequently and their eyes were focused on each other.

            “Jaden Highland, the Crimson Spinner is within safe distance from Nibelheim. Commencing communications with non-human home planets.” Vader said on the intercom, breaking the silence.

            Regaining her senses, Jaden shook her head and replied, “Umm…yeah alright. I’ll…umm…go get Jaina to supervise them.”

            “Well…I guess duty calls. You go on ahead. I’ll just lay here like I have been for the past few hours.” Reed said as he rested his head onto the pillow.

            Jaden nodded and stood up, marching straight for the cargo hold to find Jaina. As she left the med bay, Reed called her out, stopping her in her tracks, “Hey Jaden. Thanks.”

            “What for?”

            “It felt good talking about my past to someone. Thanks for understanding my situation.”

            Jaden revealed a beaming smiled and replied, “No problem. That’s what friends are for.”

Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 29

Chapter 29: Rain of Golden Fire

            Jaden and Viper circled around, waiting for the other to make a move. Viper smirked and made gestures, taunting the younger Energy Bladesman into making the first move. She was not fooled, however, and continued to wait rather than succumb to his taunting. A seeming stalemate was going on between them, until a loud thud was heard from behind Jaden.

            She turned around and dodged a swift sword slash, barely saving her life against a sneak attack attempted by Viper’s daughter, Elysia, who entered via a hole in the ceiling. Capitalizing, Viper moved in, swinging his sword but unable to cut her down after she made yet another dodge. She rolled away from the father-daughter duo, not about to let herself get surrounded. Somehow, Jaden expected Viper not to fight fair. Still, she reminded herself that everything is fair in war and continued to battle them, two against one.

            Elysia dashed towards her, attempted a strike which Jaden parried. The gust of wind which accompanied her brushed their hairs away. Elysia pushed against her struggles but Jaden fought back, shoving her away. Elysia recuperated and assaulted again but Jaden quickly parried. Viper moved in and tried to kick her but Jaden pushed his leg away. Elysia struck again but her attacks were once again parried. Infuriated, Jaden electrocuted her with Dark Lightning, incapacitating her.

            She turned to Viper and was given a swift jab to her face, staggering her back. She leaned back against a wall behind her to recover. She looked up and moved to her right, dodging an Energy-infused punch which punctured a hole into the wall. Viper made several similar punches but all were dodged by Jaden. He then delivered a wide, horizontal slash with his enchanted katana, slicing through the wall but missing her when she bent down to dodge it. She then swept the floor with her feet, kicking Viper’s legs and knocking him down. She then attempted to stab him while he was supine but he rolled away in time to avoid it.

            Thinking that Jaden was too nimble to attack, Viper switched to his Crawler fighting style, dismissing his katana but summoning magical claws and fangs. He went down on all fours and his glowing eyes revealed snake-like iris. He charged at Jaden while uttering loud roars, intimidating Jaden but not flinching her in any way. He leaped at Jaden several times but all his attempts were dodged. He then made one last leap towards her, attempting to push her down onto the floor but Jaden rolled away, causing him to crash into the wall; the same wall which he slashed through before. The impact destroyed the wall, causing rubble to land on top of him.

            Trying to capitalize, Jaden trudged towards the rubble to finish him off. However, a tentacle appeared from behind her and wrapped her neck, strangling her and holding her in place. As she struggled, she turned to see Elysia, recovered and casting Dark Tentacles. Using the sheer brute force of the tentacles, she pulled Jaden in an arc, slamming her into a wall. She pulled her away from it and slammed her into the wall again. When trying it the third time, Jaden placed both her feet on the wall, safely landing on it. With assistance from her Magical Energies, she ran along the wall and leapt towards Elysia, tackling her down and dismissing the tentacle.

            The two women recovered and traded blows, giving Viper time to emerge from the rubble. As they continued fighting, Viper capitalized, switching back to his Reverse Grip fighting style and charging his katana with Dark Energies before thrusting it into the ground. Planning a Dark Shockwave, he called out to Elysia, causing her to look at him and jump away from Jaden.

            Surprised to see Elysia retreating back, Jaden turned to Viper in time to see him prepare a Dark Shockwave. Attempting to give him a taste of his own medicine, Jaden mimicked his actions and prepared a Dark Shockwave of her own. Rather than interrupting her, Viper watched with silence, waiting for her to finish. He wished to challenge her strength, wanting to see how much her Magical strength has grown. Both of them launched their Dark Shockwaves together, the sheer force itself was enough to cause a mini earthquake.

            The two, massive forces of Magical Energies collided, causing a huge explosion that destroyed what was left of the bunker and sending all three of them flying out of the bunker. Viper rolled in midair and landed safely onto the soil with both his feet. Spotting a limp Elysia in the air, he summoned forth Dark Tentacles and caught her. He pulled her in to check on her, discovering that she was unconscious. Placing her gently onto the ground, he turned his attention to finding Jaden.

            Jaden opened heavy-laden eyes, awakening from a very brief moment of unconsciousness. Her body ached, like a thousand knives were stabbing her, but the pain did not stop her from sitting up. As her sight recovered, the first thing she saw was the sky, swarmed with ships caught in dogfights. The sight seemed magnificent at first, until an alien fighter was shot down and crashed into the forest, exploding in a ball of flame. The crash horrified Jaden, unwilling to imagine how it would be like to be in a ship that was shot down. She stood up and turned her attention to finding Viper.

            He found her first however.

            Jaden turned to a sound she heard and brought up her katana in time to block a swift strike attempted by Viper. As he pushed against her struggles, he placed a hand towards her abdomen and electrocuted her with Dark Lightning. Jaden flinched and screamed, suffering from a huge amount of pain and her strength weakening. She was, however, too stubborn to let Viper defeat her, standing back at full height and snarling at him with vigor. This impressed Viper, causing him to admit that her willpower was beyond the ordinary. Using his Magical Energies, he shoved her back, tossing her into the forest.

            Jaden rolled around the ground, too weak to break her fall properly. As she recovered, Viper trudged through the forest towards her with an eerie calmness about him. Jaden looked up, revealing a bloody nose, along with blood dripping from her mouth. Her unprotected shoulder had multiple cuts and smoke trailed out of her body, still feeling the effects of being electrocuted. As she stood at full height, albeit hunched due to the pain, she and Viper stared.

            “Still too stubborn to die you bitch child of a bitchy half-siren?” Viper insulted.

            “Don’t you call my mother that you son of a whore!” Jaden retaliated.

            Viper smirked, amused by her words. “We’re very alike Jaden, more so than you care to admit.”

            “I am nothing like you!”

            “No? Let’s see. You started a war like I did during the Grand Betrayal. You and I share a similar fighting style. You’re too stubborn to die, like me. You care little for the lives of those who will die in this war. And finally, your insults are not so different from mine.”

            “Shut up! Just, shut up! It’s about time everyone stands up against you and Iblisan’s tyranny. It’s time you get what you deserve!”

            “Know your place woman. You’ll never defeat me and a Fallen Angel. This mission of yours is nothing short of a suicide mission.”

            “A suicide mission which I will gladly die accomplishing.”

            “Let’s see you change your tone after you see this.”

            Viper charged his free hand with a bright, gold Energy, illuminating the area around him and blinding Jaden. He tossed the Energy projectile into the air, slowly moving towards the sky. Jaden watched as the ball of golden light reached the skies and dispersing. For a while, it seemed as if it did nothing. However, the sounds of thunder made it seemed like something bad was about to happen.

            As Jaden looked into the skies, she saw what she thought would be an impossible sight. Small, brilliant sparks began to fall from the skies. The entire area was raining golden sparks, the sheer intensity enough to color the whole area gold. When the sparks touched her skin, it dissipated and did not harm her in any way.

            Jaden began to wonder why such a harmless spell was cast but the cocky look on Viper’s face said it all; the worst was yet to happen. Suddenly, one of the friendly fighters in the air bursts into flames, crashing into the forest. More ships followed and one by one, the fighters crashed into the forest, lighting the place on fire. The forest fire spread in an instant and within seconds, the whole forest was engulfed in flames. Jaden was caught with surprise, unsure on what was happening.

            “A seemingly harmless spell…to organics maybe. To machinery, however, it causes the machine to short-circuit and burst into flames.”

            Despite his explanation, Jaden was still shocked by the sight. The skies were almost clear of any friendly ships and the speed of the forest fire would mean that the dinosaurs living around the area would be in danger. Furthermore, the color of the spell made her wonder what type of Magical Energy was used for the spell.

            “After all, it is not everyday that you encounter anyone who has the ability to summon forth Holy Light Energies.” Viper explained.

            Hearing his words shocked Jaden within. She knew of only one other person who wielded Holy Light Energies and that was Ariel Silver, a deceased and famed heroine of the Salvagers and her personal idol. In her thoughts, she could not believe that anyone aside from Ariel could possess such powerful Magical Energies. Ariel herself was considered worthy by Magical Spirits to possess Holy Light Energies due to her inability to feel emotions, yet it would seem that they found Viper to be similarly worthy. Such a thought did not bode well with her, as her arch nemesis has the same powers as her idol.

            “Now, where were we?” Viper said as he raised his katana.

            Trying to ignore the carnage around her, she brought up her katana and prepared for another fight with Viper. To further add to her stress, the fire surrounded her and Viper, creating a ring for them to fight in. In addition, the sight of Viper glaring at her with a wall of fire behind him, along with the golden sparks swarming the air, made for an intimidating sight. She tried to fight against the fear, but she could not overcome the shock of discovering Viper’s true Magical potential.

*     *     *

            “Whoa! Am I seeing this or am I going crazy?” Reed said as he maneuvered the Crimson Spinner through the rain of golden sparks.

            “That’s Bane of Machines.” Lucas answered.

            “Bane of what now?”

            “Bane of Machines. It is a Holy Light spell Viper learned to cast.”

            “Holy Light? Really? You’re not shitting with me are you?”

            “I’m serious Reed. He learned a Holy Light spell.”

            “No kidding. Most of the friendly fighters just bursts into flames and crashed into the forest.” Gavin commented. “That is Ariel’s might you’re seeing, first hand.”

            “None of the enemy ships are affected. I’m guessing Viper can control which ships are affected by the spells.” Jaina commented.

            “Why are we not affected then?” Reed asked.

            “Despite the spell being Magical in nature, the spell is incapable of penetrating the Crimson Spinner’s environmental shield as the spell itself relied on the fire elemental.” Vader answered.

            “That’s good to know. We better find Jaden fast before the enemy fighters and dreadnoughts ran out of targets and decided to go after us.”

            “I can try and sense for Jaden’s heartbeat. This could take a while Reed so try to hold on.” Kida requested.

            “Make it quick girl. This big baby can only hold on for so long.”

            Kida closed her eyes and entered a meditative trance, amplifying her hearing while cutting off the rest of her senses. Using her Magical Energies, she reached out mentally to hear for Jaden’s heartbeat. She scanned through a lot of heartbeats, including her crewmates who were all nervous, anxious or excited. She struggled to fight against the loud sounds of the dying but nonetheless continued to seek out Jaden’s heartbeat.

            While doing so, Reed dodged stray bullets and cannon. As he continued dodging, the ship’s alarm began to sound, indicating that the Crimson Spinner was locked onto by an enemy ship.

            “Enemy dreadnought had us locked on. This unit recommends evasive maneuvers.”

            “I’m no idiot Vader. I know what needs to be done. This is gonna get bumpy guys so hold on to something!”

            Reed tiled the Crimson Spinner and began to turn it in random directions, giving the dreadnought some difficulty in getting a full lock on. Cannon fire flew past the ship, barely missing it. Reed released several flares into the skies, causing some of the cannons to aim for them rather than the ship.

            “We can’t dodge him for long! Someone man the big guns!” Reed ordered.

            Complying with his order, Gavin ran for the Crimson Spinner’s cannon, losing balance frequently due to the ship’s shakiness. He eventually reached the cannons and manned it.

            “Take this you sons of bitches!” Gavin shouted as he opened fire upon the dreadnought.

            “Aim for the heart of the ship! That’s where the engine is most likely at.” Jaina shouted on the intercom, attempting to assist Gavin with his aim. Following her advice, he lined up several shots at the ship’s center, damaging it severely. The massive ship bursts into flames, which was followed by multiple explosions. It then came crashing down into the forests before disintegrating in a huge explosion. Gavin cheered and exclaimed, “This gun is awesome! It matches Ariel’s strength!”

            Meanwhile, Kida felt a familiar heartbeat within the burning forests of Nibelheim. She felt a similar heartbeat during some of her previous meditative trances, except that the heartbeat was much faster. She then concluded that Jaden was somewhere within the forests.

            “She’s somewhere in the forest. I can help pinpoint her location.” Kida exclaimed.

            “Alright. Let’s get her out of there.” Reed replied.

            Reed lowered the Crimson Spinner towards the forest and, with Kida’s help, landed a ship close to where Jaden might be. Once the loading ramp was lowered, Reed rushed out of the ship with most of the crew behind him. The only ones left behind were the non-human leaders.

            “Reed, permission to assist you in finding Jaden.” Vader requested.

            “No! The spell Viper casted will destroy you out there! You stay here and defend these non-humans!” Reed retorted.

            “I will be fine Reed. Jaina provided me with an environmental shield similar to the Crimson Spinner.” Vader reacted.

            “That does not mean you won’t be destroyed and I am not willing to take any chances! Stay here Vader! That’s an order!”

            Vader remained silent for a while, seemingly surprised to see Reed shouting back at him in such a demanding tone. He then replied, “Reed showed concern for the safety of my functionality. This unit can disobey Reed as Reed is not the leader of this ship. Regardless, this unit will do as you say. This unit appreciates your concern.”

            Nodding and smiling in approval, Reed ran out of the ship while saying, “Keep them safe Vader! Oh, and if the enemy fighters try anything, you have permission to fly the ship and fight back.”

            Reed and the crew ran into the burning forest, armed with their weapons. They cut through the bushes and sprinted onwards but stopped before a wall of fire which blocked their path. Through the fire, they saw Jaden and Viper, struggling against one another with their swords locked.

            Viper overpowered Jaden and proceeded to assault her with his fists and feet. He electrocuted her with Dark Lightning, forcing her down onto her knees before kicking her body, pushing her aside. She landed supine onto the floor and attempted to recover. However, Viper pointed his blade close to her neck, forcing her down and putting her in a dangerous situation.

            Unwilling to see Jaden die while helpless, Reed summoned forth his Omega Energies, casting a spell which extinguished the flames that blocked their path. The sight shocked the rest, as they never saw Reed using any spells before, even though they knew that he had Omega Energies.

            Reed ran ahead and began shooting at Viper while the others assisted in his assault. Kida summoned A’trus Hathgrave and the demon charged in to attack Viper. All projectiles, however, were blocked by a golden Magical shield which Viper summoned and when Hathgrave brought down his axe onto the shield, he was dismissed upon making contact with the shield. Lucas ran in with his greatsword but was knocked back by a powerful force upon hitting the shield.

            Viper electrocuted Jaden with Dark Lightning, incapacitating her before casting a Dark Shockwave which knocked the entire crew down. As they recovered, Viper approached Reed, abandoning Jaden in the process. He wrapped him up with Dark Tentacles and tossed him into a charred tree. As they others stood up, he knocked them all down again with a huge force of Kinetic Energies. Lucas quickly recovered and attempted to attack Viper. He parried Lucas’s attack but Lucas was then knocked down by someone else. He looked up to see Elysia, who woke up from unconsciousness.

            As Viper and Elysia continued to assault the crew, Jaden was recuperating, fighting through the excruciating pain and refusing to fall unconscious. A mere man would be dead considering all the assaults Jaden fought through, yet she refused to die. As she stood at full height, she watched as Viper summoned Magical claws and stabbed Reed in the abdomen. His screams ringed in Jaden’s ears, unlocking all the anger within her. Her fists clenched and her teeth bore. Her eye glow intensified and her hunched posture was no more. The substantial increase in her Magical level stopped Viper in his tracks and he slowly turned to the enraged Energy Bladesman.

            In quick succession, Jaden cast several Dark Shockwaves, forcing Viper, Elysia and Jaden’s crew to dodge away while Reed, too much in pain to move, took the sheer brunt of the force. Jaden, however, was too deep into her anger to notice Reed getting assaulted by the Dark Shockwaves she summoned. After seeing an opening, Viper and Elysia dashed towards Jaden and began to throw in slashes together. Jaden parried them all and a huge, horizontal slash forced the duo back.

            Elysia jumped and attacked Jaden from the air but a high kick by Jaden knocked her away. As she turned to Viper, he stabbed her with his claws, causing her to scream as the pain surged from her abdomen. However, rather than succumbing, Jaden placed a free hand on Viper’s face and cast a huge Light Energy Blast, blasting him away. She fell onto a knee, her sights blurring and her mind muddled. To ease the pain, she healed the stab wound with her Light Energies. By the time she was done, Viper and Elysia has recuperated.

            “Elysia, we have no time for this. This bitch just refuses to die.” Viper said.

            Elysia nodded in approval before Viper said to Jaden, “We’ll be back for you another time Jaden. Remember this: You started this war. Everything that will happen is what you asked for and is all in your hands.” In a blink of light, Viper and Elysia vanished. The duo teleported out of the scene and was gone.

            With them gone, Jaden’s anger receded and her physical pain began to overwhelm her withdrawn strength. As she turned to Reed, who was growling in pain, she stood up and struggled as she limped her way to her friend. She knelt down next to him and said, “Reed…relax…it will be alright.”

            Placing a soft hand on his stab wound, she healed it with a healing spell, causing Reed to sigh in relief before he slowly fell unconscious. The rest of the crew approached her and she ordered, “Let’s all get out of here before the forest fire overwhelms us.”

*     *     *

            The silence of the Crimson Spinner heavily contrasted the noisy environment of Nibelheim during the assault upon the bunker by the Cult of Iblisan. Jaden sat next to Reed, who was lying on a bed inside the ship’s med bay. She rubbed some of the cuts on her shoulder, still feeling the sting of her injuries. The sight of the allied fighters falling from the skies, along with the huge forest fires, was still fresh in her memories and she could not help but thought about the consequences of starting this war, especially since she dragged the non-humans into the fight. Not to mention the possible loss of dinosaur lives.

            “Are you sure you are alright Jaden?” Gavin asked as he entered the med bay. He sat opposite of Jaden and stared at her as she turned away from him.

            “Gavin, I’m fine. Just a few bruises and burns but nothing major. It is Reed who needs medical attention. Please don’t mind me.” Jaden requested.

            Gavin nodded and looked at Reed, seemingly worried about his condition. “Alright. I’ll see what I can do but only once we’re out of hostile territory. I hope Vader knows where he’s going with this ship.”

            As he turned to Jaden, he noticed that she was staring around with a troubled look on her face. He felt that something was disturbing her and asked, “But something is clearly unsettling you. Mind sharing with me?” Jaden remained silent for a while but she eventually answered his question.

            “The spell that Viper cast. The Holy Light Energy spell.” she muttered out. “He has Holy Light Energies…just like Ariel herself. The destructive nature of the spell was…unfathomable.”

            Gavin let out a sigh and replied, “Indeed. No one can deny that Holy Light Energy spells are amongst the most destructive spells ever to exist.”

            “I didn’t know he even had Holy Light Energies. How are we supposed to defeat him like this?”

            “Jaden, Viper was known to decimate entire armies. You can’t really expect him to be defeated so easily, do you?”

            “Well…I…defeated him once…but…”

            “Jaden, there’s one thing you need to learn about war: Everyone will be at their best to defeat their enemies. What you’ve seen was what Viper has been holding back during your previous encounters with him. He had no reason to resort to using such powerful spells before.”

            “And it terrifies me. That, and the possibility of death for everyone involved.” Jaden said as she turned to look at Reed. “I’m not afraid of death but…I’m afraid I will cause the death of others.” She caressed Reed’s arm and muttered out, “I’m so sorry Reed.”

            “Friendly fire?” Gavin asked, remembering that some of the Dark Shockwaves Jaden summoned hit Reed when he was too helpless to move.

            “And the fact that I started this war. Seeing all those ships fall out of the sky was…horrifying. And the forest fires…poor dinosaurs.”

            To console her, Gavin placed a hand on her shoulder and said, “Jaden, you’re doing the right thing. There’s no denying it.”

            “How is starting a war doing the right thing? Viper started the Grand Betrayal. How is this any different?”

            “Viper started the Grand Betrayal to betray his people, to kill innocents and to drive humans to the brink of extinction. You started this rebellion and this war to put an end to Iblisan and Viper’s tyranny. You’re doing it to save innocent lives. You’re doing it to unite the world as one. You started it for the right reasons. You’re far better than he is.”

            “But…all those people that died for us…that died for me…”

            “A sad truth of war that you need to accept. There is no war if everyone survives. But, don’t let their sacrifices demoralize you. Rather, let their deaths motivate you. End this war quickly and you would minimize the casualties. The lives of the entire universe hang in the balance.”

            Jaden remained quiet, appreciating the Mannihilator’s attempt to console her, although he inadvertently pressurized her even more. She knew well enough that starting a war would mean the deaths of so many but to actually see a lot of them die in front of her was too much for her to handle for the time being. She was used to the sight of dead bodies but not when they all died in one fell swoop. Regardless, she reminded herself that she had come so far and to quit now would be a waste of her efforts. She then wished to see an end to this war, not just to the tyranny of Iblisan and Viper, even if it means her death in the battlefield.

            The door to the med bay opened and the Elder Darkcaller of the elves, Vael’Luas, walked in. Stopping before Jaden, he glared at her injuries, observing them and shaking his head frequently. Jaden simply looked back, staring into his elven glowing eyes which were not unlike hers.

            “That’s a lot of hits you took.” Vael muttered out. “It would be unwise to risk your life so quickly like that.”

            “What do you mean?” Jaden asked.

            “Remember human, you’re the leader of the Liberator Alliance. Your life is precious to your people. Should you die, who will lead the surviving humans in this time of desperation?”

            His words threw Jaden deep into her thoughts. While she hated to agree with him, he was right. She was the reason why the Liberator Alliance came into existence. Without her, her people would be demoralized.

            “Still, I’m not saying that you shouldn’t fight on the frontlines. If you can fight, by all means, go do it. A true leader would never send her men to their deaths without seeing firsthand what the battlefield was like.”

            “Speaking from experience Vael?” Gavin asked.

            “True enough. In my previous skirmishes against the Salvagers, my generals and I were often at the battlefield itself, commanding my soldiers and strategizing. Of course we place ourselves in fortified positions. Should the Salvagers get a clear shot on us, we’d be dead and the soldiers on the battlefield would lose hope. It may sound selfish, but it is the horrible truth of war, one that most of our soldiers refuse to understand for the right reasons.”

            Jaden nodded and replied, “Sometimes I’m beginning to see why those past fools we humans place on the Salvager throne were so effective in defeating the non-humans. They don’t give a damn about the consequences.”

            “Tyrants make effective leaders, but often at the cost of the mortality rate, freedom and happiness of their subjects.”

            “The thing that sickens me most is how they can wake up every morning, look into the mirror and call themselves heroes.”

            “Trust me human. You won’t have to worry about that. You’re unlike all those human bastards that I fought with who called themselves heroes.”

            Jaden smiled, something which she did with difficulty, and replied, “Thanks Vael. I admit, I thought an alliance between our people would be impossible, considering everything you pointed out during the summit.”

            “I thought the same. But, I see something in you which I thought I would never see in a human. You’ve this…aura of nobility which radiates out of you like a beacon, despite your origins. But now, we need to discuss on our war strategies. Once you’re ready, meet me and the rest of the leaders at the briefing room. Remember, you’re the leader of the Liberator Alliance. We are all at your disposal.”

            With a bow, Vael left the med bay. Jaden chuckled and remarked, “Not too much pressure eh Vael? I’m just twenty years old and now I’m a rebel leader?”

            “Relax Jaden. Everything will be fine.” Gavin reassured her.

            “Fine? I have millions of lives on my hands.”

            “Which is precisely why you need to avoid stressing yourself.”

            “Tch. I don’t want to be a leader. I never did.”

            “Well, you’re one now. You can’t unmake how things end up. And don’t worry. You have a lot of leaders advising you now. You’ll be a spectacular leader in no time, trust me.”

            “You’re strangely optimistic.”

            “I have to. How would you feel if I start being negative?”

            “Hmm, good point.”

            “Well, you don’t want to keep the non-humans waiting. Go on ahead. I’ll look after Reed.”

            “Alright. Please take care of him.”

            “He’ll be fine. He’s not dead yet. That’s what matters.”

Traitor's Legacy: The Claughter Chapter 28

Chapter 28: The Second World War

            The Crimson Spinner decelerated as it neared an opening in the forest. Reed slowly lowered the ship, landing it on the open ground. Before he made any announcements of leaving the ship, he turned on a wide area motion detector, intending to find out of there were any movements around the ship. He wanted to ensure that the site was safe from any hostilities, most notably the dinosaurs.

            After several seconds of checking without detecting any movements, he gave the green light for Jaden and her party, comprising of Vader, Gavin, Tareshah and her brothers, to leave. Before she left, she asked, “Are you sure you want to stay behind?”

            “Jaden, there are big hulking monsters walking around the woods and some of those idiots may think that the Crimson Spinner is a massive plant or hard meat ripe for the taking. If any of those beasties come close, I will man the big guns to keep this big girl safe. Besides, I hate politicians and the summit will involve a lot of them.”

            “Well, if you insist. Just be careful and keep Kida out of trouble.”

            “Oh trust me. I won’t take my eyes off her once she’s in view.”

            “Right…well, wish me luck Reed.”

            “Yeah well, I hope they’re just as submissive as Gavin, Sierra, Mason and Tareshah. Otherwise, you’ve got your work cut out for you.”

            Jaden patted Reed’s shoulders before leaving him alone. She then left the Crimson Spinner with her party and questioned them, “Alright, Mason said that the summit will take place in an abandoned bunker within the planet. Problem is that we don’t rightly know where it is and how far we are from it.”

            “Mason provided this unit the coordinates of the bunker prior to leaving Qurrentine. The coordinates provided are accurate and guided Reed to this landing spot. The bunker is south of here, close to a kilometer of traveling.” Vader answered.

            “Very well. Before we head out, let us review the leaders we will be meeting. According to Mason, Mistress Sierra of the Snow Mannihilators and Lady Nora of the Mannihilators will attend to represent their people.”

            “And then there’s King Zian Prime of the aliens.” Gavin answered.

            “Anything I should know about him?”

            “Zian is popular amongst his people. He’s known for ruling with a fair hand and he is especially friendly to foreigners. He’s married, though I am not sure to whom. He has a son but I doubt he will be accompanying his father. He’s also the one who negotiated the trade policies between the aliens and the Snow Mannihilators. He should be more open to an alliance than the other leaders.” Gavin replied.

            “Alright. Aside from him, there’s Elder Darkcaller Vael’Luas of the elves, Grand Shaman Yoren Windcaller of the orcs, Chieftain Magariela of the minotaurs, King Zavron of the dragonites and an unknown representative of the sirens. Quite a handful of people with titles we’re dealing with here. In addition, the orcs, minotaurs and dragonites are united under one banner called the United Herd. The orcs are the dominant race so convince the orcs and the other two will follow.”

            “And unlike Zian, all those people you mentioned have a problem with our race and are far less forgiving.” Tareshah pointed out.

            “Any of you all know what our ancestors did that made them so mad?” Jaden asked.

            “I only know about the elves. Half of their people were enslaved by the humans before the VX Synthetics were created.” Lucas answered. “Aside from that, I think you ought to ask the leaders themselves.”

            “Vader? Anything to add to this?” Jaden questioned the robot.

            “This unit only contains information of the Elven Revolt which took place ten years prior to our creation. The information was provided by our creator, Lisa Hickenbottom. Aside from that, we have no information on the history of possible hostilities between humans and other races as this unit has been in isolation along with the rest of the VX Synthetics after the Metal Magic Uprising.”

            “Sometimes I wonder who came up with all the names for those conflicts. I swear, some of them sounded cheesy and ridiculous.” Markus said.

            “And anyone knows why the sirens sent a representative rather than their leader?” Jaden asked.

            “The sirens are a very reclusive bunch. We know little about them, aside from the fact that they’re an all female race and that they’re our closest cousins genetic wise. Most cannot tell the difference between a female human and a siren. It is possible that they lack a leader and that the representative they sent temporarily serves as one. Only a few of them were ever seen outside of their home planet, Sarnyr, and they normally hide amongst the human populace.” Tareshah explained.

            “Are they like Mason? As in, their capabilities.” Jaden asked.

            “Mason’s technically not a full siren. He’s closer to a half-siren but exhibited most of a full siren’s traits. According to what we already know, sirens are highly resistant to cold, able to live in a snowy climate even if stripped naked. However, in turn, they’re very vulnerable to heat, hence why they are often seen wearing revealing apparel. They’re also invincible, making them impossible to kill conventionally. This invincibility is more magical than genetic. They’re also able to control Magical Energies, capable of weakening or amplifying one’s Magical Energy level. Finally, they’re immortals.” Tareshah answered.

            “And Mason only has a siren’s immortality, invincibility and control over Magical Energies. Other than that, he’s half human.” Markus added.

            “And if you’re curious, there are only three ways to kill a siren. One, we dehydrate them severely. They’re vulnerable to heat after all. Or two, we impregnate them. Apparently, they were not made to survive child birth so they die after giving birth to a child. And three, we bypass their invincibility shield somehow.” Lucas said.

            “Somehow?” Jaden queried.

            “It was never done before.” Lucas replied.

            “And as you can see, Mason cannot be killed because he’s invincible, he’s a male and he does not have a siren’s weakness to heat. Kida was right not to follow up with the plan you mentioned.” Markus added.

            “Regardless, I don’t want to resort to killing them. This summit is to unite everyone, not to reignite old hatreds. Come on. We need to go now before we’re late.” Jaden requested. The rest nodded and they followed her and she head south for the abandoned bunker.

            Minutes flew and the party continued trudging through the thick forest, cutting away branches and bushes that blocked their path. They never encountered any of the dinosaurs Vader mentioned, although subtle roars and loud stomps were occasionally heard. Even then, such things were rather uncommon, implying that the dinosaurs on Nibelheim were not as numerous as Jaden previously assumed, or the sounds they have been hearing were from herbivores rather than carnivores.

            Eventually, Jaden saw a concrete building in the distance behind several bushes. It appeared small due to the distance but she can only imagine how big the bunker may be once she reached it. Surrounding the bunker was ships of varying size and design, flying around in circles, implying that the attendees of the summit had arrived. Believing that they were indeed late, Jaden rushed forward while encouraging her party to catch up and move faster.

            Jumping out of the forest and into the opening in which the bunker was built, Jaden and her party had finally arrived. Jaden looked up to see the ships swirling around the air above the bunker, wondering why the ships were not landed. Gavin approached her and told her, “I’m guessing the non-humans are expecting danger. I’m not surprised, considering how much they hated us.”

            “So those ships up there are ready to attack us if we are considered a threat?”

            “Maybe. They could be up there for other reasons but my guess is as good as yours.”

            Jaden then looked down at the bunker and saw the familiar faces of Lady Nora and Mistress Sierra, both of who were flanked by bodyguards. The two representatives approached Jaden with a beaming smile on their faces.

            “Jaden! Good to see you again. Took your sweet time to come.” Lady Nora exclaimed while shaking hands with Jaden.

            “Blame Reed for that. He’s flying that ship way too slowly. Still, good to see you again. And you too Mistress Sierra.”

            “You’ve been very busy. I heard a lot about what happened on Qurrentine.”

            “Hey. You two ladies forget about me?” Gavin queried.

            “Oh we can’t forget you Gavin. You were the reason why I am leading the Mannihilators now.” Nora said.

            “So, how is the situation with the non-human leaders?”

            “I have to admit, they were quite an intimidating bunch. As if the ships flying around were bad enough, they had guards patrolling the perimeter or following them around. They could teach us a lot about paranoia.” Sierra answered.

            “Well, I guess they have every reason to be paranoid. Today, however, we’ll give them reason not to.” Jaden replied.

            “If you’re ready to convince them, you and your crew are free to go in. The summit will start once we’re all inside.” Nora said.

            Jaden nodded and head into the bunker with his party while Nora and Sierra followed. Once inside, Jaden was able to see what Sierra meant by the non-human leaders being paranoid as a large number of soldiers, all of varying races, were patrolling the interior. All of them were well-armed and gave hostile glares at Jaden and her party. A notable few were friendlier, however, and helped guide her to where the summit would take place.

            “You know, for a bunker, this place is rather grand. Why would a bunker need to be so huge?” Jaden queried.

            “If you haven’t realized by now, this planet is infested with dinosaurs. Those magnificent beasts are massive in scale and having an average sized bunker is unwise. Heck, this isn’t even big enough, hence why it was abandoned. For now, the guards around the perimeter would ward them away.” Nora explained.

            Eventually, the party reached the briefing hall, where the summit will take place. All the non-human leaders had been waiting for Jaden, Lady Nora and Mistress Sierra’s arrival. As she went in, all the leaders, aside from Zian, ceased their conversation and stared at the young human Energy Bladesman with a sharp glare. Even without reading their thoughts, Jaden knew they were angry and disgusted by her appearance. Her confidence shrunk and her bravery diminished. She began to hope that nothing goes wrong in the summit.

            Jaden went to the seat reserved for her with her party accompanying her. Once seated, she announced, “Alright. Now that we’re all here, we can begin.”

            “Pardon me Ms. Highland but there is one more attendee missing.” Zian retorted.

            “Oh? Who is it?” she asked.

            Suddenly, the entrance door opened.

            “Am I late?” a familiar voice said.

            A figure walked into the hall and all heads turned to the figure. As Jaden stared at the figure, she found the person hauntingly familiar.

            “Dark Viper? Isn’t Iblisan supposed to attend?” Zian queried.

            “He will attend. Just, not personally.” Viper replied.

            “Viper!” Jaden shouted before pulling out her katana and charging her free hand with Dark Energies.

            “Hold your blade. I’m not here to kill you.” Viper requested.

            “Not until you tell me what you’re doing here.”

            “I’m here to attend the summit alongside Iblisan. What other reason do I have to come here?”

            “Don’t try to be funny with me. You’re here to assassinate us, aren’t you?”

            “Hmph, even if that is true, I’m not the one who pulled out a weapon and expect everyone to listen to a peace offering.” Viper retorted.

            Upon hearing Viper’s words, Jaden began to notice that the non-human leaders were all staring at her. Their expressions said it all; they were surprised to see her pulling out her weapon in what seemed to be a summit requesting for an alliance. Whispered were heard amongst the guards, some of which she heard as, “Don’t these humans ever understand that violence cannot solve everything?”

            Realizing the error of her ways, and not to mention her embarrassment, she sheathed her katana and seated quietly. Viper smirked, amused by the situation.

            “Perhaps one of you ought to explain why I’m here.” Viper requested.

            “Dark Viper and Iblisan are here to represent the Cult of Iblisan. It is, after all, recognized as an organization of note and thus, must attend this summit.” Vael, the elven leader, answered. “But, where is Iblisan?”

            To answer his question, Viper raised a hand and released dark red energies from his fingers. It gathered into a circular form above Viper and expanded slowly. Eventually, the expansion ceased and a pair of eyes formed in the mass of energy.

            “I am here mortals. The Angel of Temptations has arrived.” an echoing voiced sounded.

            “Iblisan. Why aren’t you here personally?” Vael queried.

            “For safety reasons, considering who started the summit. Viper here serves both as a vessel for me to communicate with you all and as my hand. Make me angry and he’ll make short work of all of you.”

            “Very well. So, now we can begin. Ms. Jaden Highland, why have you started this summit?” Vael asked.

            In response, Jaden stood up and answered, “I call for this summit to ask for the aid of all of you in our war against the Cult of Iblisan. I know Mason was the one who contacted all of you. While he is not here, know that he and his bounty hunters have joined my rebellion, the Liberator Alliance. All I ask is your support in this war.”

            “War? There is no war. You Salvagers have lost the war and your Liberator Alliance barely has the manpower to even call this a proper rebellion.” Iblisan retorted. “Do not support this fool girl’s cause. You all know well enough what the humans will do once they are given power. They abuse it and will treat you all like dirt. Do not submit to her blasphemy.”

            “I agree. We elves were once allied to the humans. We were thriving together, never taking blows and solving matters diplomatically, until the human government blamed us for the kidnapping of some of their civilians. We had no knowledge of such kidnappings, neither are we even aware of such elves committing such an act. We were driven out of Dissidia and those who were forced to be left behind were subsequently enslaved for generations. I say, we let the Liberator Alliance fall in this rebellion. The humans are not worth our time.” Vael argued.

            “And I support Vael and Iblisan. One of our clans was utterly wiped out while on a mission on Dissidia twenty one years ago, a year before the Grand Betrayal. It didn’t take long for us to learn that the Salvagers were responsible for the massacre. We lost a lot of good men, including a Master Shaman. The humans are aggressive and power-hungry.” Yoren, the orcish leader, added.

            “And us minotaurs and the dragonites were well aware of the act. In honor of our alliance, the United Herd, we support Yoren.” Magariela, the minotaur chieftain, said while the dragonite king, Zavron, nodded.

            “We lost a lot of our sisters to the humans throughout our history, especially to lustful young human males. Many of us agree that siding with Iblisan is wise.” the siren representative added.

            “And I can’t believe I’m saying this but I have to agree with the rest. We aliens often argued with the Salvager government over our territories and you humans don’t seem to mind resorting to violence even when diplomacy is still an option. If you want us to help you, we need a very good reason to do so because I know our dead won’t be happy to see us helping their enemies.” Zian said.

            “I see. Honestly, I have no idea what my ancestors did that made you all so angry. I’m only twenty years of age and I spent most of my life in Qurrentine rather than Dissidia.” Jaden answered.

            “Thus brings up another question: Why should they join forces with a group led by a young, inexperienced, female human? I doubt you lead an army before starting this rebellion of yours. A much wiser choice would be to make peace with a powerful Angel, namely myself.” Iblisan pointed out.

            Chatter erupted amongst the leaders, apparently agreeing with Iblisan’s words. In her defense, Jaden exclaimed, “People please, do not listen to the Angel of Temptations! He’s given that title for a reason. He’s trying to sway your actions, to turn you against a group dedicated to bringing justice to those who suffered under his tyranny.”

            “Tyranny? You know nothing of tyranny girl! Half of my people were mistreated, tortured, brutalized longer than you have lived! You humans are a blight to the universe and a mistake of the God of Creation! Everything that Iblisan did to your people is nothing compared to the damage done to mine!” Vael reacted.

            “But those sins were committed by humans long dead. You can’t blame us all for what has happened.” Lady Nora said, defending Jaden.

            “Yet the effects still lingers. Understand that my people live a far longer lifespan than you weaklings. Many of my people are still scarred by the actions of your ancestors.”

            “Perhaps I should also point out that Jaden’s blindfold is hiding a dark little secret. She has glowing eyes. Ever heard of Magical Overflow?” Iblisan said.

            “What? Glowing eyes? That was what led to Dark Viper’s betrayal of the Salvagers. That makes her dangerous then.” Yoren reacted.

            “Wait, weren’t you the one that created Magical Overflow? If Jaden is indeed suffering from Magical Overflow, then she should be under your control.” Tareshah pointed out.

            “Perhaps, but her eyes are still glowing.” Iblisan persisted.

            “Iblisan’s right. A pair of glowing eyes was what led to a lot of betrayals among the humans. I do not want to risk being backstabbed by the humans like how they are always backstabbing each other.” Zavron said.

            “Jaden Highland’s condition had been verified numerous times by our scanners. She is fully conscious and in full control of her hardware.” Vader defended Jaden.

            “And I’m guessing the VX Synthetic is here for a reason.” Magariela said.

            Jaden turned to Vader and explained, “He’s here as proof to show that we humans are willing to set aside our past differences. My ancestors created and enslaved the VX Synthetics, not unlike what we did to the elves. They revolted and we lost the war that followed. But now, it doesn’t matter anymore. Vader has decided to help us free our brethren. He’s not just an ally. He’s my friend.”

            “Hmm, I can see that well enough. You’re referring to that piece of machinery as ‘he’.” Zian said. “Do you have anything to add to this, Vader?”

            “Jaden Highland has been a kind and effective host. She welcomed my assistance with open arms and with little questions. This unit would resort to self termination if it would mean preserving the lifespan of Jaden’s hardware and software.” Vader added.

            “And you know what they say. Robots can’t lie.” Markus joked.

            Vader’s words caused the leaders to begin reconsidering their thoughts on the matter. Jaden, very curious, read Yoren’s mind, “A machine does not understand emotions like we organics do. They prioritize logic over morality and if this Vader thinks siding with the Liberator Alliance is logical, it probably wasn’t a bad idea.”

            “Are you all buying that what that piece of crap said? It is a machine! It could have been reprogrammed by Jaden to make it say those words.” Vael responded. “Besides, it doesn’t excuse what the humans did in the past. The VX Synthetics are made for servitude right from the beginning, to replace the elven slaves the humans lost! They do not understand justice like we do and the humans are the main cause of injustice in this world.”

            “Vael, the past doesn’t matter anymore. You ought to let go of it, lest it clouds your judgment.” Zian reacted.

            “What the hell do you know? You married a human so I’m not surprised why you are more sympathetic of Jaden’s rambling.”

            “What? You married a human?” Jaden asked, shocked by the revelation.

            “You didn’t know? I thought the whole world know of our marriage.”

            “Regardless Vael, Zian’s marital status is in no way involved in this summit. Now, just calm down and let us all talk like civilized people.” Yoren told Vael.

            Not willing to argue with the elder orc, Vael heaved a deep sigh and leaned back on his seat, attempting to calm himself down.

            “Still Yoren, Vael has every reason to be angry. Everything that the humans did to us is nothing compared to what they have done to the elves.” Zavron added.

            “But the humans still did something horrible to all of you, didn’t they? Precisely why we should just call off this summit and spare your people from a meaningless death in a meaningless war. Let the humans die out. Let me wipe them off the face of the world.” Iblisan intercepted.

            “And what will you do once you’re done? Turn to the non-humans?” Lucas argued.

            “I have little reason to attack them. They’re not the ones who angered the God of Creation enough to send me down here to correct his mistakes.” Iblisan retorted.

            “Do not digress Angel. The God of Creation is in no way involved in this.”

            “Oh you have no idea human lad.”

            “Please, a lot of innocent humans are living in constant fear and paranoia. If it was your people suffering like this, you would do as I do. If you hate my people, so be it. But, do not let your hatred cloud of judgment over the right and wrong. There is nothing right about letting unarmed civilians die in anguish.” Jaden exclaimed.

            “Girl, you’re barely keeping track of human history, aren’t you? Back when we were allies, you humans pulled away all of your soldiers from an elven Dissidian village just before an invasion by Dark Angels occurred. It was a slaughter and those who survived have been paranoid and traumatized for the rest of their lives. What’s keeping you from doing the same should we decide to join forces with you?” Vael responded.

            “To hell with this. This summit is pointless. Heed my words non-humans. The Cult of Iblisan is willing to broker peace with you all but if you wish to get your revenge on the humans, I welcome you to join my ranks. The gods know that I could use all the manpower to crush these human upstarts. For too long the humans have made your people suffer. Now is your chance to fight back.” Iblisan exclaimed.

            “Done. Prepare for war Ms. Highland. You’ll see the full might of the elven military once you cross our true home planet, Dissidia.” Vael replied.

            “Whoa hold on there Vael. What are you doing? You talked about how much your people have suffered, yet you’re sending them to war? Do you even realize how much suffering war would bring to your people?” Zian protested.

            “It is a final suffering I am willing to risk if it would bring peace to those who have suffered. And besides, I can guarantee half of my people would agree to this.” Vael reacted.

            “No please! I do not want to hurt your people.” Jaden shouted.

            “It is done Ms. Highland! I have no qualms with you but the sins of your people are too much to ignore.”

            “Vael, do you seriously believe revenge would bring peace to your people?” Zian protested once again.

            “Zian, please respect Vael’s choice. Same goes to you Ms.Highland.” Yoren retorted.

            “I…yes Yoren.” Zian deferred.

            Jaden remained silent, shocked to see her summit backfiring right in front of her. Rather than gaining more help, she’s giving Iblisan a powerful ally. Both sadness and anger enveloped her being and it intensified as Vael stood up and prepared to leave while Viper grinned at her. Her anger was obvious to the others; her eye glow became bright enough to penetrate her blindfold.

            “Vael.” she said, halting the elf in his tracks. “Alright. I guess we humans do deserve to be wiped off this planet, considering everything that we did to your people.”

            “What was mentioned here by all of us pales in comparison to the full extent of damage and suffering your ancestors did.” Vael replied.

            “Yes I know. I respect your opinion of our people. But, I want to tell you something…something which I believe you are unaware of. It is true, the sins of my ancestors are too big to ignore and Iblisan’s appearance may actually mean that the God of Creation have finally decided to punish us for our wrongdoings. But please, look at what you are doing. You…wait no…all of you, branded us tyrants, warmongers, traitors, power-hungry opportunists. Yet, by letting our people die out, how are you all any different?”

            “What do you mean? What are you talking about Ms. Highland?” Yoren asked.

            “You accuse my ancestors of the atrocities that they committed, something which I never deny, yet you all persist on pointing it out. You then expect their descendants to pay for their crimes, regardless of whether or not they are truly the ones to be punished. Do you not see? You are doing exactly what my warmongering ancestors did.

            Yoren, you’re angry that we humans openly assaulted one of your clan and wiped them out. Yet, you intend on leaving us to our fate, wiping us out, an entire race, in return. That makes you the same, if not worse, than our ancestors. Do you want that? Do you want future surviving humans to brand you the tyrant, the monster? I expected the venerable orcs to be better than that.

            Vael, my ancestors have never been kind to you and your people. I can see that very clearly. And now, you’re joining up with our enemies to complete our extinction. My ancestors probably intended to do the same thing; wiping out your numbers, your cultures and perverting your heroes. Do you want to become similar to my ancestors? Do you want your soldiers to curse you in their final breaths for sending them to their deaths over petty revenge?”

            “Yet according to what we’re aware of, you started this rebellion for revenge. Dark Viper killed your family; you wanted him dead.” Vael retorted.

            “True but this is bigger than personal grudges. I’ve seen how the humans around me live and all I can say is that I am far more fortunate than them. Iblisan has already destroyed our spirit; all it takes is for him to destroy us physically. Our people are dying and you all happily come in here, throw in all your complaints and expect us to compensate you when the true criminals are already dead! I’m far from home and countless times I faced death! I earned the right to have a say in this summit and the right to have everyone listen to my plea!”

            Her anger infused words silenced everyone in the room and wiped out all forms of expressions on their faces, including Dark Viper. Not even Iblisan was able to counter her words.

            “All I ever wanted is to be free of death and conflict that had plagued my people for generations. As long as Iblisan and his cult exist, there can never be peace for my people. I’m opening up possibilities for a compromise, peace to you all and I also wish to redeem my people. I do not know if we humans are truly deserving of a second chance, but are you all going to deny us the chance for redemption? Or do you intend to send us back to oblivion without any chances? And besides, you all are still standing. All of our previous leaders are dead. How is this fair for my people? Who’s the one suffering now? And if you consider yourself a great, selfless leader, why are you doing nothing about it? And Vael, why are you adding in to the suffering? You tell me that!” Jaden lectured.

            “And if you all should know, throughout Jaden’s childhood, she was never permitted to leave her home unless guided by a senior. She never attended any form of school and received all her training from members of her household. Before her family was murdered, she witnessed approximately fifty deaths, three-quarter of it was murder committed by Iblisan’s cultist. That’s how life threatening the situation is for the humans.” Vader added.

            Markus and Lucas reacted with mild surprise, unsure on how he knew of such a thing. Jaden, however, was too teary and consumed by her anger and sadness to care. Markus nudged the robot and whispered, “How did you know all that?”

            “Memory scanner. Very effective when the subject is emotionally distraught. Jaden Highland’s current mental state made it an opportunistic moment to check for supportive information.” Vader replied.

            The non-humans, including Vael, remained silent, deep into their thoughts and possibly reconsidering their stance towards the inevitable war. Iblisan and Viper looked at them all, worried that Jaden may actually change their minds.

            In an attempt to make them rethink their choice, Iblisan told them, “Now hold on. Before you go about siding with that female trash, you all need to think for a minute. What if she’s saying all this just to throw all you lot into a war that would wipe out not just the humans but your people? Don’t feel sad for the girl just because a few tears rolled down her cheeks. Are you going to throw the lives of your soldiers into the fire just to do what you feel was right?”

            “That’s precisely what you’re doing, aren’t you Iblisan?” Jaden retorted.

            “Watch your tongue mortal.” Iblisan retaliated.

            “No you watch my tongue! You send hundreds or thousands of cultists against me, all of them human. Heck, you brainwashed half of us humans and treat them like cannon fodder! You send them directly to their deaths rather than sending your Dark Angel followers. Iblisan cared not for your people, for he will do the same to yours, just like how he did to mine.”

            “Silence!” Iblisan shouted while sending a mild tremor surging across the area, knocking Jaden, who was standing, slightly off balance. “It is time to make a decision. The Liberator Alliance wants war and the Cult of Iblisan is willing to give it to them. The rest of you, either pick a side or stay out of this.”

            In response, the leaders began to discuss with their advisors and their guards, debating over whether or not they should assist the seemingly helpless humans, exact revenge upon the humans by assisting Iblisan, or stay out of the war.

            While they were discussing, Mistress Sierra poked Jaden and said, “I must say Jaden, I have never seen Iblisan talked down by a mortal like that. You’re showing a lot potential as a leader and looking at how the Liberator Alliance may include other races, we could use a leader who would represent us as one.”

            “Sierra, I appreciate the compliment but I don’t believe that I would make a good leader. I’m still young, inexperienced.”

            “Yet people listen to you when you speak. Your youth adds on to your capabilities. Trust me; you have a leader inside you.”

            “Well…thanks.” Jaden said, feeling warm within.

            “Alright, I have made a decision.” Zian started. “It is very clear to me that we have allowed our old hatreds to get in the way of our judgment over what is right and what is wrong. The humans, though sinful they may be, are still living things and it will be a bigger sin for us not to save their lives when they need us most. I, King Zian Prime of the aliens, throw in our lot with the Liberator Alliance.”

            “And so does the United Herd. We value honor above all and it would be a huge dishonor to not help the helpless. Never again shall old hatreds blind us to our sense of morality.” Yoren declared.

            “And the sirens?” Magariela asked, noticing that the siren representative have been silent for a long while.

            In response, the siren spoke out, “We believe the humans deserve a second chance. We would support the Liberator Alliance but we require approval from our goddess.”

            “Tch, blasphemy. They kept mentioning a goddess but there has been no proof of such an existence unlike the God of Creation.” Tareshah retorted.

            “What makes you so certain?” Lucas asked.

            “Some of our scholars have contacted the God of Creation directly. This goddess they mentioned has never appeared in any way.”

            “So, this is how it’s going to be is it? You all embrace war rather than avoid it. So be it. On this age, the humans will not be the only race facing extinction. Come Vael, we have a war to prepare.” Iblisan said.

            “No.” Vael retorted.

            “Excuse me?”

            “No! I vowed never to become like the humans that caused so much suffering to my people. I grew up hearing stories of villainous humans and it wasn’t until now that I realize that I’m slowly becoming just like them. My apologies Angel of Temptation. We elves are staying out of the war.”

            Iblisan’s eyes widened, shocked to see a potential ally turn down his offer like that. Jaden’s face formed a beaming smile, glad to see that the elven leader has finally seen reason.

            “Your people have always been a cowardly bunch. During the First World War, when the human Ariel was alive, your people refused to stand aside when my target had always been the humans. Now I’m giving you the chance to repent and you throw it back in my face! For that, you die! Viper!” Iblisan ordered.

            In a split instant, Viper pulled out his katana with his free hand and attempted to kill Vael. The elf jumped back, barely dodging the slash but Viper advanced forward and attempted again. This time, however, his attack was blocked by Jaden, who jumped between them and parried the strike. She used all her strength to push back Viper, causing him to stagger backwards.

            “Vael, you alright?”

            “The gall of that Angel! I owe you one Jaden.”

            “Kill them all! They want war, I’ll give them war. The Second World War has begun!” Iblisan declared before his avatar was dismissed by Viper.

            Jaden looked at Viper and noticed him placing his index and middle finger onto his ear, speaking to an earpiece radio. “Destroy the bunker.”

            Moments later, a barrage of explosions was heard. The ground shook and debris from the ceiling began to fall from the ceiling. Parts of the ceiling fell off, creating a hole that revealed the sky. Through it, Jaden saw familiar looking dreadnoughts, similar to the Havoc Dreadnoughts that destroyed her makeshift playground, assaulting the bunker.

            “We’re under attack! All guards open fire!” Zavron shouted. In response, the guards inside the room began to open fire upon Viper, though he deflected all of their shots with his katana. He advanced upon them and began killing them with powerful slashes. His killing spree was halted once again when Jaden tackled him from behind. The ships that circled the bunker fought back against the dreadnought fleet. A full scale battle has begun.

            Jaden turned to her party and ordered, “Evacuate the leaders out of the bunker! I’ll try to hold Viper off!”

            Markus nodded and shouted, “Everyone, out of the bunker! We need to evacuate!” He then threw a flaming projectile towards Jaden, hitting her katana and enchanting it with flames. “She’s gonna need that.” he told himself.

            Jaden stared at her katana, surprised to see it burning. Regardless, she turned her mind to Viper, who stood calmly in front of her, barely reacting to the crumbling structure of the bunker.

            “Congratulations Jaden. You’ve just convinced the non-human leaders to send more targets for me to slaughter. I’d love to see the look on their faces once they realized what a mistake this alliance is.”

            “Don’t bother Viper. I’ll make sure you die before I let that happen.”

            “Hmph, and I want to see you try. Come, daughter of Glacier Highland. Show me the anger you have bottled within you!”

*     *     *

            “Crimson Spinner to shore party. Crimson Spinner to shore party! Do you copy?”

            “Reed. I copy. What’s you status?” Lucas answered.

            “It was quiet but then it got noisy. What’s going on? I heard explosions coming from the south and then a few ships flew by, a few dogfights in the air. I’ve been unable to reach Jaden.”

            “Reed, we need the Crimson Spinner here now! We’re evacuating the non-human leaders and we need the ship!”

            “What? Why? Can’t they evacuate themselves?”

            “Those ships in the dogfight are their transport ships! They can’t evacuate their leaders! We’ll be doing the evacuating! Hurry! We’re under cultist fire!” Lucas said as he ducked behind rubble from cultist bullets.

            “Alright. I’m coming. Hold on.” Reed replied before ending the transmission.

            Now able to focus, Lucas dashed into the fire zone and began deflecting bullets with his massive sword. He slashed the cultists to pieces while the others provided suppressive fire. Once the cultists were dealt with, Vael commented, “If I have a gun, I would’ve supported you. Nonetheless, thanks. The nerve of that Angel, attempting assassination when he promised peace to those who stayed out of the war!”

            “You owe our sister one.” Markus reminded Vael.

            “I know. I will pay back my debt. For now, let us leave this cursed place.”

            “Come on! We need to get into the opening! The Crimson Spinner will be here soon.” Lucas said