Between Truth and Lies: The Cliff Notes

[skylark]

A dark a dismal place is seen, rubble everywhere. Kalia wakes up in the middle of this chaos.

Kalia: Ugh... The hell? When did I end up in Detroit?

Kalia feels herself compelled to move forward, only to run into Zeirites.

Kalia: Yeah, I think I'mma stay away from that.

Her journey leads her to the Rose Garden.

Kalia: Oh hell no.

Other Kalia: Oh hell yes.

Kalia: Dafuq?!

The other Kalia lifts her by the neck. In the distance, an ominous-looking tower is seen.

Everything goes dark for some time. Screams are heard, tears are shed, a gunshot is fired, and innocence is lost.

Kalia: Ooh, my head. What did I eat last night? And why is my shoulder bandaged?

Reika: No idea, but your father had to turn away some envoys while you were asleep. I think they came from some place called 'Anseria' or something.

Kalia: Wait. Aunt Reika, why are we on a carriage?

Reika: Because we are going to find Dante and give him a piece of your mind for what he put you through.

Kalia: ....I don't want anything to do with him right now.

Reika: Kalia, no good is ever gonna come out of this by letting it fester. The sooner we deal with his bull, the sooner you can move forward. *mutters* If you happen to snap his neck in the process, I wouldn't be opposed... >.>

Kalia: Wait, what was that last part?

Reika: Nothing! ^_^

Kalia: Maybe you're right. Maybe I shouldn't let this simmer...

Reika: Hey, and who knows. Maybe you'll find someone who'll actually treat you like the princess you are.

Somewhere in the spaceport terminals in Arlith, a hooded young man sneezes.

[skylark]

Arlith Spaceport...

A well-groomed regal-looking elf enters his personal transport.

Well-groomed Elf: Well, that could have gone better.

*time stops*

Caption: Hey kids! It's the voice of Michael McConnehie! *applause*

*time resumes*

Heavily-Armored Man: The nerve of that ingrate refusing our request for assistance! If I had my way, we would-

??: Off your soapbox, Dagrahn. Also, I did warn you Lord Arkham. He would not accept your proposal.

*FLASHBACK*

Lark: Arkham Deznova of... Anseria, was it? Never heard of the place.

Arkham: Few people have, Your Majesty. An overindulgence of pride has caused many of my brethren to adopt an insular way of thinking over the centuries.

Lark: *mutters* Sounds... disturbingly familiar... *normally* Continue.

Arkham: For the past 13 years, my people have been embroiled in a brutal civil war. I fear that without decisive action, they will be doomed. I had tried to appeal to the UGA, but my requests were rebuffed. Thus, I turn to you.

Lark: Ok, as much as I sympathize with your plight, you're asking me to go over the heads of my peers and gather an army for a private expedition. Last time I did that, the Galadinean Civil War happened.

Arkham: *cringes*

Lark: Yeah. As sad as it is, I'm afraid I have to give your proposal a big fat no. I do wish you luck on your endeavors though. *notices Dagrahn shaking with barely restrained rage* Also, you might want to get your bodyguard to loosen that helmet a bit. He looks like he's about to pop a vein.

*END FLASHBACK*

Arkham: It cannot be helped. It seems we are on our own after all. Ready the ship to return to Anseria at once.

Dagrahn: I'm gonna stay back, make sure no spies follow you.

Arkham: Yes, we can never be too careful these days.

As the ship leaves, Dagrahn gazes angrily in the direction of Reybrana.

Dagrahn: Are the preparations ready?

Minion 1: They'll hatch writhing the hour.

Minion 2: Will there be screams?

Dagrahn: Plenty of them. Those Reybranan fools will pay for their insult against my lord.

-------

Sometime later, Kalia and Reika, both incognito, enter the spaceport. Without warning, a loud roar sounds in the distance. Soon, a giant bipedal beast bursts from the ground, countless minions growing out of it and attacking the populace.

*somewhere nearby*

Hooded Young Man: So the vision didn't lie. But here of all places...?

*back at the spaceport*

Reika: You have got to be kidding me. Kalia, I think we should stay-

Reika notices that Kalia is already gone, likely to combat the massive creature.

Reika: .......well, shit.

[skylark]

The monster rampages. Citizens cry out in terror. The military is largely ineffectual. What hope could the people of Arlith have?

Kalia: 'scuse me! *slash* Pardon me! *slice*

Monster: *roars*

Kalia: *slashes through some mooks* Hey, quit leaving your droppings behind!

The creature smashes the area where Kalia is, but...

Kalia: Missed me. :3 *runs up building*

Kalia takes to the air only to see two bulky creatures form and launch out of the creature's head.

Kalia: Huh. Well that's different. *tackled*

More creatures dogpile on the poor girl, however...

?: Let that girl alone!

Kalia: .......really?

The creature reaches out to crush Kalia, only to have the smaller creatures making up its arm cry out and disintegrate into dust after making contact with a recently placed magic circle. The same happens to the ones piling on Kalia.

Kalia: Wait, what...? Oh. HELL. No! You are NOT upstaging me!

With the two fighting together, the trash mobs are whittled down until the grotesque core of the beast is visible.

Kalia: Mine!

?: *calmly chants a spell*

Kalia's attack hits nothing but air, as the stranger's spell on-shots the creature.

Kalia: Whaa...? *tumbles and falls over* Oh, dick move buddy. >_<

?: Pretend you never saw this and be on your way. Please.

Kalia: You expect me to ignore something like that? And where the hell do you get off telling me to- *the stranger turns around so she can see his face* -to... *tilts head in fascination*

?: This is not your fight. I implore you, strike this from your mind and move on. *teleports away*

Kalia: *shakes head out of her stupor* ....stupid sexy stranger telling me what I can and can't do...

*On the starship ride to Hamnipas...*

Kalia: ...acting all elfy and mysterious, and those eyes, they look weird, were those runes in them...?

Reika: Reybrana to Kalia. You've been muttering since I found you.

Kalia: ....I wonder if he works out...? Does he work out? Seems kinda scrawny at first glance though, but I could be wrong....

Reika: Le sigh...

*touchdown in Hamnipas*

Kalia: ...and how does someone get hair in that shade of white and purple...? I need to ask Reika about that and- *finally aware* -wait, where are we?

Reika: We're in Hamnipas, Your Grace.

Kalia looks around nervously, her eyes linger just a bit too long on the tower in the distance, yet she isn't sure why...

Kalia: Why...?

Reika: *confused* ...because you said this would be an appropriate place to start our search?

Kalia: *laughs nervously* Did I say that? Why... why would I say that?

Reika: Kalia, are you sure you're alright?

Kalia: Of course I'm okay! Why wouldn't I b- hey, is that Caesar? Hey, Caesar!!

Reika can only sigh as Kalia runs off.

Reika: Welp, time to start interrogations. *applies lipstick* Say, miss. Can I ask you a few questions? I'm looking for someone... ^_^

[skylark]

Caesar: Well, this is surprising. I didn't think you'd wanna leave the good life for a little while longer.

Kalia: Well, what can I say? Shit happens. Speaking of, did you two happen to run into Dante lately?

Caesar: Haven't seen him since the reunion. Weird he and Fin ended up ditching everyone without a goodbye.

Kalia: *mutters* Typical, really. *normal* So what's going on with you two?

Caesar: Illayne's being more confrontational than usual with me lately. I don't get it.

Kalia: You sure about that?

Caesar: Maybe not. Oh hey, it's the Spire. We're here.

Kalia: *panicking* Wait, what? =<

Kalia and Caesar find themselves in front of Fenrath's Spire.

Caesar: Well, since we're here, might as well pay our respects.

Kalia: Paying respects is good, but can't we do that somewhere else?

Caesar: *solemnly* Oh right. We both haven't been here since 'those' days. I guess you would be nervous considering who we lost, but isn't that why you came here?

Kalia: I... Oh! A distraction! *runs off*

Caesar: *scratches head* Huh. Something's a bit off with that girl...

As Kalia gets the hell outta dodge, we cut to beneath the city...

Dagrahn: Were you followed?

Flunky 1: Considering that kid saw YOU get on the ship coming here, I think that's a bit moot Boss.

Dagrahn: Unfortunate. The people of this town have done nothing to my Lord, but we must cover our tracks. We cannot let the Son of Tornan interfere. What of the sacrifices?

Flunky 2: That tiny blonde one was cursing up a storm, but this one went down a bit too easy.

Flunky 2 unceremoniously drops Reika to the floor.

Ilayne: *tied up* You %^*$#%&!! Once I get outta this, I'm gonna ^^&^% and ^$%^% you up your *%^$^^&&^$!!!!

Dagrahn: Classy...

Reika: Ow... Where am I? You look familiar. *sees Ilayne* *dryly* Oh look. It's the sister.

Ilayne: *glares*

Meanwhile, back at the ranch...

Kalia: Phew, I gotta say, that was getting awkward, so thanks for... what the?! You again?!

?: I assume things have gotten even more awkward now...

Kalia: Are you following me?! *aside* I mean, I know I'm cute and all, *back to business* but come on! D:

?: Strange, I was about to ask you the same thing. >.>

Caesar: Yeesh, forgot how fast you could get. *sees the stranger* Huh. Well you certainly work fast.

Kalia: *stomping on Caesar's foot* ANYWAY, you. Considering the last time I saw you, a monster was attacking Arlith. If another one of those things happens to pop up here...

?: I said that this doesn't concern you.

Caesar: Well, this is the first I've heard of this giant monster business. I think you'd better answer the lady, buddy.

?: *realizing neither of them will let things go* Fine. The one responsible for unleashing that creature in Arlith is here. I came to a dead end in my inqueries, so I was heading to the monument for guidance before I began my search anew. But it is my mission. I will not involve any more innocents in this.

Kalia: You said this doesn't concern me... but I saw it moving outside of the city. It was heading towards Reybrana. That thing was going to attack my home. So as far as I'm concerned, I'm already involved.

Caesar: Yeah, I think she's got you in Check, pal.

?: .........I guess I have no choice but to concede your point. Very well.

Grey: My name is Grey Tornan, and I hail from the world of Anseria. My quarry is a member of a dark coven who I believe holds the ear of Lord Chancellor Arkham Deznova of Rassid.

Caesar: Oh, one of those, huh? Alright, I've got nothing better to do, and Ilayne made it clear she wants some space. This should be fun.

Grey: The Apostles of Ouroboros should not be considered entertainment... >.>

Kalia: Ouroboros...?

Caesar: Buddy, there are a LOT of bad things in this universe with that name. You're gonna have to be more specific.

Grey: All those 'other' organizations had to get the name from somewhere, didn't they? No. *walking off* The Beast I speak of... is the first.

[skylark]

Some time later...

Caesar: You got anything?

Kalia: Nothing.

Grey: Another dead end. We might just have to start the hunt on our own. This place has been through enough already.

Caesar: *aside* You can say that again.

Kalia: Not sure I follow. I don't know much about this place.

Grey: I was only a child last time I was here. At the time, it was caught up in the chaos of the Galadinean Civil War. If it hadn't been for the hero Roas Atrades, I would have been lost...

Caesar: Wow. Small world.

Suddenly, a small tremor flows throughout the town.

Kalia: Where did that come from?!

Grey: Underground?

Caesar: They must be hiding in the sewers or something. That makes this easier.

Kalia: Eww... =<

Caesar: Just try not to breath in and you'll be fine.

Kalia: You ass. >_<

After a smelly yet uneventful journey...

Ilayne: How many of these things ARE there?!

Reika: If you have to ask, then there's too many!

Caesar: Ilayne?!! D:

Kalia: Aunt Reika?!!

Grey: Zelkova!

*one fight later*

Flunky 1: Aww crap.

Flunky 2: He found us! What do we do?!

Dagrahn: *groan* You just had to get some stubborn sacrifices, didn't you?

Kalia: Bastard. You were going to attack my home!

Dagrahn: *reconition* You. Why shouldn't I seek satisfaction for the insult your king made against my Lord?!

Grey: Your 'lord' would see you hang if he knew the beasts you were summoning under his nose.

Dagrahn: Rich words coming from a Heretic. Unlike you, everything I do is for the betterment of Anseria, and I will be damned before I let it return to the Dark Ages.

While this exchange is happening, his flunkies take the opportunity to fuse into a large fleshy horror.

Ilayne: When the hell did we enter Diablo?! D:

The creature charges only for Kalia to cut it in half with one strike... messily.

Caesar: Holy shit... Where did THAT come from?

Reika: ....

However, the distraction was enough for Dagrahn to escape.

Grey: Damn.

Caesar: Hey, at least we took down his goons.

Kalia: If we hurry, we can catch him before he goes off-world.

Reika: Kalia, what are you doing? We don't have time to get involved in someone else's fight.

Kalia: He was planning to attack our home! If dad knew about this, I know he wouldn't stand around! He'd do something!

Reika: I... *sigh* Alright. We'll finish this and then move on.

Ilayne: Caesar, would you mind telling me what the hell is going on here?

Caesar: I'll tell you later. You want to get back at that asshole, don't you?

Ilayne: ....Just point me at him.

Grey: Kalia... You don't have to do this. I can finish things from here.

Kalia: I wouldn't be able to look my father in the eye if I didn't see this through to the end. He would've helped in a heartbeat. How could I do less?

Grey: I... thank you.

Exiting the sewerways, the group hauls ass to the skyport, where they see Dagrahn boarding a spelljammer.

Grey: Those are Arkham's troops. He must be returning to Anseria.

Ilayne: What's the plan? Charge in and slaughter?

Caesar: As fun as that would be, he might take off before we get to him.

Kalia: We sneak aboard, then.

Reika: Strategizing an assassination. *sigh* Your father would be proud... *aside* and concerned... >.>

And so, our heroes sneak aboard the vessel just before it takes off into the stars. However, as soon as they get close to their destination, Murphey rears its ugly head.

Guard: What the?!

Caesar: Hey, can you tell us where the restroom is? Our friend here needs to go.

Kalia: Aunt Reika, I told you to take care of it before we left... >_<

Reika: =<

Grey: Umm, did we make it past the atmosphere?

Guard: Uhhh, yes.

Ilayne: Perfect. >: )

The alarm sounds as fighting breaks out over the ship.

Ilayne: Caesar! What are you doing?!

Caesar: *bracing himself around something* You know how these things airship battles go. Something happens to depressurize the ship and send it into a nosedive towards the ground.

Grey fires off a lightning bolt, which Dagrahn turns aside with his axe. The bolt hits the ship circuitry, causing an explosion.

Pilot: Port engines are offline! We're going down!!

Caesar: Called it!

Grey teleports the group to safety, leaving Dagrahn behind on the ship.

Ilayne: I've never really seen a spelljammer explode. It's pretty.

Reika: *mutters* Leave it to an Atrades...

Ilayne: What was that?

Reika: Nothing! ^_^

Kalia: Guys, I don't think it's over yet.

Indeed, Dagrahn comes stumbling out of the wreckage.

Caesar: The hells is this guy made out of...?!

Dagrahn: I will not... I cannot...

Dagrahn starts glowing with a sinister aura.

Grey: Is he channeling?!

Dagrahn: I will not accept this HUMILIATION!!

Our heroes are forced to crane their necks upwards as Dagrahn transforms into a gigantic monstrosity.

Reika: Oh, I think I'm gonna be sick. D:

Caesar: And he still has that helmet on.

Kalia: Goodbye, sleep... =<

[skylark]

After a colossal battle, our heroes walk away from the smoking remains of the creature that was once Dagrahn Zelkova.

Reika: Well, it seems the author's combat budget is running dry again.

Kalia: Is that really a surprise, though?

Caesar: What I'm surprised about is how well you handled yourself back there. Never seen a multi-formed fighting style before.

Kalia: Thanks. I've been practicing. ^_^

Ilayne: Hey Caesar, can I talk to you back here for a sec...?

Caesar: Sup, Spud?

Ilayne: *glares* Anyway, are you sure we both saw the same fight?

Caesar: No clue what you mean.

Ilayne: Come on, you were just 'trying' to be nice to Kalia just now. She was bumbling through that like a retarded mongoose.

Caesar: ...wat.

Ilayne: She hesitated like a dip trying to find out which 'style' to use, and when she does use one, it only looks like she's had two years of practice at best. Fot crap's sakes, she doesn't even have a solid foundation!

Caesar: I'll give you the foundation, but are you sure we saw the same fight? It takes a hell of a lot of focus to be able to switch seamlessly like that.

Ilayne: There was nothing seamless about it! I could take her on in my sleep.

Caesar: If something ever happened to her that would make her abandon that focus, maybe then you'd have a point. Right now though, all she needs is some more practice.

Ilayne: Practice, my ass. She's gonna need a miracle if she's gonna-

Reika: Hey, I'm sensing some reality subtext combined with some soapboxing. What's going on back there?

Ilayne: Nothing!

Caesar: Just a friendly debate.

Ilayne: We'll continue this later, Caesar. Right now, we need to talk about something more important. We need to-

Caesar: Hey Grey! How far are we from civilization?

Ilayne: Godsdammit... >_<

Grey: Ummm...

Kalia: That doesn't sound good... >.>

Grey: I've never really been this far out in the wastes without an escort. *rubs the back of his head* Sorry.

Ilayne: Fantastic...

--------------

As the sun blazes down from overhead...

Kalia: So Grey... That guy called you a Heretic. Anything you wanna share...?

Ilayne: Oh gods, this is gonna be an exposition chapter, isn't it? D:

Reika: Shh.

Grey: You see all this desert? The Undying Beast Ouroboros, born within the chaos of Creation. Everywhere he went, mayhem followed, even as far as the throne of the High Gods. The final battle with him took place on this world, bleeding the very life from it. A great sorcerer, and my ancestor, was able to seal him away within the sands using a specially created type of magic.

Kalia: Huh. That explains the one-hit poly-kills. =<

Grey: Emelius taught others these arts, and they eventually became known as the Yai'al, Stewards of the Seal. But time was not kind to them. Although they watched over Anseria as always, their deeds faded into legend, and eventually mere myth. Then, Emelius' bloodline decided to skip a generation. This particular ancestor was a vain, arrogant ruler, and had a self-entitled view of his own abilities. Yet despite all odds, he had the love and support of the people. When the gift did not manifest for him, he decried the Anseria's protectors as thieves, charletans...

Kalia: ...and heretics.

Grey: Ever since that day, we have been forced to work in the shadows, although no matter our affiliation, our duty comes first.

Reika: With a civil war on your hands, that has to be painful.

Caesar: Yeah, about that. You're not gonna drag us into that too, are you? I mean, we just wanted to kick that guy's ass.

Grey: It isn't your fight, so I won't ask. Although I do admit now that I probably wouldn't have been able to defeat Dagrahn alone. The thing is, Dagrahn was one of the Royal Guard. If Ouroboros' coven has infiltrated that high, then it's possible they may have orchestrated the war itself...

Kalia: Do you know that for sure?

Grey: I was not in the city when the chaos began. All I know is the end result. Yet it is the only explanation I can think of for why it happened.

Reika: How did the war start...?

Grey: My father, the king of Rassid, was slain by his brother... Arkham Deznova.

------------------

Rassid Royal Palace

Spectacled Knight: Lord Arkham. Welcome back. How were negotiations?

Arkham: It was a wash in the end. A pity. We could have used such an ally. Master Enzo, have there been any developments?

Grant Enzo: It's...

Arkham: Spit it out Grant.

Grant: Dagrahn's spelljammer crash-landed in the southwestern Wastes. There has been no sign of him.

Arkham: Impossible...

Grant: Your orders?

Arkham: Have the rest of the Guard gathered. We'll discuss how to proceed from there.

Grant: Sir.

As Grant leaves...

Arkham: *clenches fist* I will not let you take any more from me, Rodius..

----------------------

The sun continues to drizzle...

Caesar: And so you shoot off a firework?

Grey: A marker. Hopefully my compatriots find us soon.

Kalia: Do they know you're...?

Grey: No, they don't. When they find us, let me do the talking. Thanks to the war, they're understandably jumpy about off-worlders.

Reika: Oh, that'll be fun. If this heat doesn't kill us first.

Kalia: Pease don't jynx us, Aunt Reika... =<

[skylark]

The blazing sun still shines overhead...

Caesar is carrying Ilayne on his back. Reika had collapsed about a foot away.

Caesar: Hey Kalia... where did Grey say a waystation was again...?

Kalia: I... I think it's just over the next dune...

Caesar: Nah... nah, you said that three dunes ago... I got nothing left... Oh waiter... check please... *collpases, unceremoniously dropping Ilayne in the process*

Ilayne: Owww....

Kalia: You guys suck... *trips into the sand* *muffled* We can still make it...

Grey: Come on, where are you guys...?

Suddenly, the sound of engines can be heard nearby. A heavy convoy of hoverbikes heads towards the group.

Reika: *muffled* Yay, we're saved...

Almost immediately, these new arrivals aim their rifles at all but Grey.

Ilayne: Wanna rephrase that?

Reika: *muffled* Yay, we're doomed...

Grey: Hey, that's enough! They're with me!

Grey's pleas unfortunately fall on deaf ears as his 'comrades' pull him away from the others.

Kalia: *sarcastically* Oh boy. This'll be fun.

The last thing Kalia sees is a rifle butt driven at her...

-------------

Meanwhile, Arkham proceeded with the gathering of his Royal Guard...

White-haired Soldier: I'm still finding it hard to believe Dagrahn got 86'd like that. What do you think, Flint?

Flint Rhonus: I think you're a little too excited about this whole thing, Steiner.

Steiner Dellus: You kidding? Of course I am! Dagrahn was a freaking beast! Why wouldn't I wanna know what kind of monster could take him down?

Jin Hazaan: Can't even show even the slightest bit of respect, can you? Unsurprising considering every time you open your mouth, it's like listening to the yapping of a retarded puppy.

Steiner: Cram it, Jin!

Grant: Enough. *massages temples* Anyway, you seem rather reserved about this, Dalahn. He was your brother.

Dalahn Zelkova: He was a fool. Yammering on and on about being the avatar of Lord Arkham's glory, yet in the end he was all talk. If he's so weak as to be taken down by a mere band of rebels, then he deserves no sympathy.

Flint: Yikes. And the Ice Queen strikes again... >.>

Dalahn: What can I say? It's times such as these that we need to turn our eyes towards pragmaticism, especially since the rebels have gotten more brazen by the day. Speaking of, have you considered my proposal my Lord?

Arkham: Your distate for your kin's conduct aside, are the numbers accurate?

Dalahn: Give me six months, and you will have the means to end this war for good.

Arkham: I shall take it under advisement. Has there been any word from Agent Lenard?

?: Agent Lenard has since infiltrated enemy ranks. As of now, she is maintaning radio silence until such time as she is able to discern their next major operation.

Steiner: Hey, newbie's late.

Flint: Ehh, you're just saying that cause's nobody's calling you newbie anymore.

Steiner: Shh...

?: In addition, Lenard's peliminary reports indicate various breaches in the city's security grid, as well as the identities of a number of double agents within our own ranks. Naturally, the rogue agents are no longer our concern.

Steiner: *whistles*

Jin: Shit. How'd that many get past us?

Arkham: It seems you've been quite busy since we returned. Tell me then, have you any ideas of how we might be able to turn these slip-ups to our advantage, Richter?

Richter Val'nere: ...I might have a few.

---------------

*harmonica sounds play in the background*

Kalia: Down in front!

Still rubbing her forehead where she had been struck, Kalia looked around at what she assumed was the prison of an underground base. However, her stay would end up being shorter than she anticipated.

Stern Rebel: Come with me. And unless you want your accomplice's heads ventilated, you had best not try anything funny.

Kalia: I swear to gods, if you hurt them-

Stern Rebel: You're not in a position to make demands. Now get up.

Reluctantly, Kalia allowed herself to be led through the base until...

?: I will not lie to you, Grey. You are truly beginning to test my patience.

Grey: Dagrahn is dead, the proof is right there! We've struck a blow against Arkham! That's all that matters, Tyson!

Tyson Rhodius: That's not the point! You brought outsiders to our doorstep!

Grey: They aren't involved in our-

Tyson: You made them involved, and now we've been comprimised!

Stern Rebel: Wait here.

The rebel ponds on the door twice. The argument hushes as the doorman opens up the peephole. The rebel nods once. After a tense moment...

Tyson: Let them in.

The door opens to allow the rebel and Kalia in. Standing behind a desk is whom Kalia assumes is the leader of this group of rebels, a woman standing at his side. Grey stands at the left. On the desk is the remains of Dagrahn's helmet.

Grey: Kalia, are you alright? I didn't think...

Kalia: So, I'm here. Now what did you want?

Grey: ....

Stern Rebel: Watch your tone.

Tyson: I can handle this, Tobias. Now tell me... Kalia was it? What assurances do I have that you won't leak the location of this base to our enemies?

Kalia: I could care less about your war. The only reason I even pursued the owner of that trophy of yours was because his actions would have made trouble for my home.

Tyson: Hmph. If I didn't have this 'trophy', I admit I'd be far less inclined to believe you. *sits down* For that alone, you have earned a reprieve.

Kalia: Then point us to the nearest spaceport, and I can guarantee that we'll never have to see each other again.

Tyson: *leans back, fingers crossed* Now of that, I have no doubt.

Tobias: Tyson, you're not actually going to-?!

Tyson: It would be best to do this quickly, before Deznova gets wind of his man's death and ushers in a worldwide martial law. Then we'd never be rid of them.

Tobias: *resigned* Point. Taken.

Tyson: Now that accounts have been settled, Grey here will see you and your accomplices to Rassid, considering this is his mess to begin with.

Grey: Tyson...

Tyson: You are dismissed.

Grey give a sigh before opening the door for Kalia. Kalia makes it a point to ignore his gesture and shoves past him. Grey can only shake his head sadly before following her out.

Tyson: I swear, his forays offworld have addled his mind. Perhaps it's time to cut him loose before he endangers us all.

Tobias: You know he's the only reason we have the support we do. Having the King's son with us gives us much-needed legitimacy.

Tyson: And if he continues to play 'Good Samaritan' with offworlders? Any support he'd give us might as well be tossed right out the window if he keeps this up!

Tyson's Aide: Tyson, we can't allow what happened with Seb to cause us to start pointing fingers at each other. Tobias is right, we'll never be able to succeed without Grey. Besides, you know damn well that no matter what, he always means well.

Tyson: Charlotte...

Charlotte: Let it go. For me.

Tyson: ......*sigh* You're right. Sebastian's betrayal has put us all on edge. We can't afford to turn on each other now. I... I need some time to clear my head.

Charlotte: I'll be waiting later. *leaves*

Tyson: *before Tobias can leave* I want them followed. Make sure they get on a vessel offworld before Deznova catches on.

Tobias: And if not?

Tyson: ...I'll think of something. I'll contact the cell inside just in case. With any luck, we'll have at least one less headache to worry about.

Tobias: Let's hope.

[skylark]

Kalia: Guys, are you okay?! D:

Reika: More or less... no thanks to some people.

Grey:

Caesar: *gets shoved to the ground* Oof...

Ilayne: Assholes!!

Kalia: They don't matter anymore. Come on.

Grey: Guys, I know I said they'd be jumpy, but I didn't think they'd-

Kalia: *coldly* Don't. If all you're going to do is make excuses for them, then there's nothing more to discuss.

The others start walking away.

Grey: *sigh* Guys!

Kalia: What?!

*beat*

Grey: *deadpan* The path to Rassid is that way.

A random breeze blows in the underground hallway.

Caesar: *whispers* Awkward...

--------

The paths continue on in complete and utter silence fo quite some time.

Kalia: .........

Ilayne: .........

Reika: .........

Caesar: ..........

Grey: ........

And even further than that, apparently. Until...

Caesar: Alright, I can't keep doing this. I know we're all pissed right now, but I think we can at least try and end this entire misadventure on a high note.

Grey: You don't need to-

Caesar: Grey. Aquaintences aside, you're alright.

Grey: Thank you.

Kalia: *rolls eyes*

--------------------

We're walking, we're walking...

Ilayne: Ugh, why are we still underground?! Couldn't we have just gone back to the dunes with 40 camels or something?!

Caesar: Sounded a bit racist there, Spud... >.>

Grey: Sadly enough, the camels usually travel these passages too. Almost every oasis on this world is underground, hence the need for these passages.

Reika: Huh. You didn't seem the type to conform to stereotypes.

Grey: I don't, but in Ilayne's defense, there's enough precedence for the stereotype to exist to begin with. *shrugs*

Ilayne: Hmph. At least you're reliable, unlike some.

Caesar: I zoned out there for a sec. What did you say, Spud?

Ilayne: *mutters* Idiot...

Kalia: >_<

-----------------

Ilayne:

Reika: Okay, you weren't kidding about the oasis. This cavern's huge!

Grey: One of countless. Considering our ecosystem is on the back foot to begin with, these are a godssend. Alright, time to fill the canteens.

Reika: Hey, the water's coming out of those crystals. What's that about?

Grey: Well, you see whe-

Kalia: Oh for the love of crap, will you shut up already?! We're wasting time!!

Caesar: Woah.

Kalia: I swear, If I have to spend one more minute than I have to on this stinking dustball, I'm gonna puke! *storms off*

Grey: ..........

Ilayne: What the hell crawled up her ass? >.>

Caesar: No idea. <.<

Reika: =<

----------------------

......Well this just got even more awkward...

Caesar: Well, I gotta say Kalia. Looks like you did a complete 180 on this guy.

Kalia: Can you blame me? Who the hell would trust a guy who runs around with terrorists?!

Caesar: Geez, are you still gonna play the 'Guilt by Association' game? We dropped that about 100 miles ago.

Kalia: You didn't get to interact with them much. They kept threatening to have you killed if I didn't do what they asked.

Caesar: That's them though. What did Grey do that was so horrible?

Kalia: Well, he... he was arguing with them... *realization hits* about letting us go...

Caesar: *raises eyebrow*

Kalia: And... and... I'm no longer in the right about any of this, am I?

Caesar: That would be a big fat NOPE.

Kalia: ......shit.

Caesar: Whelp, you know what you gotta do.

Kalia: *sigh* Hey, I think we need to-

Grey: *conpletely ignoring Kalia* Rassid's just a few more miles out. We're almost there.

Kalia: =<

Caesar: *shrugs*

---------------------

Finally, our heroes reach Rassid. Stepping out of the lift, the group heads past the gates and are awestruck at the city.

Grey: Welcome to Rassid, the Gem of the Anserian Sands. Not bad for 'stinking dustball', huh? *grins*

Reika: Eww. Right below the belt. =<

Kalia: ......*sigh* Okay, I get it. I'm sorry.

Grey: *folds arms*

Kalia: It's just... when you first told me of your mission, it just... sounded so noble.

Ilayne: Ahh. There's the hero worship.

Caesar: Just like Dante.

Reika: *narrows eyes* Imagine that.

Kalia: But then came this civil war business and those bastards threatened to kill people I cared about... I guess disillusionment hit me then...

Grey: *sigh* I wish I could make them understand that not all offworlders are autmatically in league with Deznova, but I guess maybe some minds can't be changed. For what it's worth, I'm sorry too.

Reika: Aww.

Caesar: There's the warm fuzzies. Speaking of...

Ilayne: *elbows Caesar* Don't ruin it.

?: Master Grey!

An elder gentleman, more than likely a butler of some sort, rushes towards the group.

Grey: Mormondt!

Mormondt: I apologize for my tardiness. Are these the ones spoken of?

Grey nods. Mormondt looks around to make sure nobody overhears.

Mormondt: *hushed* On behalf of the Anserian Liberation Front, I apologize for the conduct of my fellows. That should never have been your first impression of our culture. I already have documentation prepared, so all you need to do is board the closest vessel.

Grey: Thank you Mormondt.

Mormondt: *normally* If it please you all, I shall direct you to the spaceport.

Reika: Well, things are finally looking up.

Kalia: Famous last words. >.>

Reika: =<

--------------------------

Kalia: I hate being right.

All around the spaceport were soldiers leading others off various starships. Signs all around indicated the the spaceport had been shut down. And standing atop the ramp of an airborn infantry carrier was a man Reika had thought she would never see again.

Richter: Citizens of Rassid, I am sure you must have heard the rumors by now. Allow me to dispel them now. Dagrahn Zelkova, Twelvth Sword and Guardian of the Sultanate, has been taken from us by rebel insurgents!

Reika: Oh gods, not him... Why him...? Why now...?

Caesar: Friend of yours?

Richter: I vow on my honor as Fifth Sword that these criminals will be brought to justice!

Mormondt: *hushed* Master Grey...

Grey: *pulling up his hood* Split up and meet back at the city square.

Richter: To aid in our efforts, Lord Arkham has decreed for Anseria to enter a state of martial law. Travel or contact to and offworld are herby restricted until further notice.

Reika: Kalia, come on...

Kalia: *worried* Aunt Reika...?

Reika: We have to go. Now!

Kalia: O-okay...

Richter: The Sultanate thanks you for your patience and cooperation. You may return to your business.

Immediately, Richter turns his gaze to where six others had stood just moments ago. Out of the very corner of his eye, he could almost swear he saw the tail end of a tail amidst the dispersing crowd. However, it was the tingling sensation brought about by the Genesis System that caught his interest. Brief flashes of Soul, Life, and Chaos... and a steady thrum of Strength.

Richter: Interesting...

[skylark]

Back at the city square...

Caesar: Well guys, we are officially and thoroughly hosed.

Mormondt: We anticipated that this might happen. Follow me.

Reika: Oh, oh! Let me guess. Since they can't lose us, they'll use us. That sound about right?

Mormondt: Once again, my apologies. Until we can find an opportunity...

Kalia: It's fine. As long as we don't have to deal with them directly...

Ilayne: Hooray...

-----------

Caesar: .......the Sauced Camel Inn? Really?

Grey: The camels on the city outskirts feed on the cacti nearby. The water from those cacti happen to form the base of a rather refreshing liquer. Putting two and two together, the owner we bought this place from thought it was appropriate.

As the group enters the establishment, they spy at least four employees doing various jobs...

Barkeep: We're closed. Come back later.

Grey: Is it too late to make a reservation?

Porter: Oi, you're back... then that means...

Mormondt: Yes. On Tyson's orders, these four shall be our guests for some time.

Porter: If I didn't know the bloody bastard any better, I would've almost believed he finally pulled his head out of his arse about offworlders. Sorry you guys had to deal with his shite.

Caesar: Oh thank gods, reasonable people.

Porter: Name's Porter... and yes, I've heard every joke about the irony, so just don't. Then we've got Fidgrelia - we call her Fidget. Owner of the place over there is Bully. Finally, the red-headed sexpot at the bar is Ulala.

Ulala proceeds to blow the group a kiss before returning to organize the bottles.

Reika: Ooh, that gave me warm fuzzies. =^_^=

Bully: Might as well have a seat then. Something tells me you're gonna be here for a while.

Caesar: In that case, an appletini for the lady who turned 18 a month ago-

Kalia: wat?

Caesar: -and some milk for the Spud.

Ilayne: Caesar!

Caesar: Alright, alright. Make that chocolate milk.

Kalia: *stifles a laugh*

Ilayne: *glares*

Grey: I'll take a Cactus on the rocks.

Reika: I'll have the top-shelf sampler.

Everyone gives Reika an incredulous look.

Reika: What?

Kalia: *facedesks* So, what's with the sudden generosity? You really don't think this is gonna make up for not getting me a present, do you?

Caesar: Just saying, you're 18 now. Legal drinking age for just about every bar in the universe, and now legally prime inspiration for doujinshi artists everywhere.

Somewhere on Sanctum, Techno sneezed.

Kalia: *deadpan* Gee, thanks.

Caesar: I'm a helper.

Ulala: Alright, I think there's some proper spirits in the back for our top shelf connesour. Give me a few moments.

Porter: Don't get lost, dove.

Ulala:

As the woman left towards the storage room...

Caesar: Seriously though, how are you holding up?

Kalia: *sigh* As well as can be expected. I guess all we can do is roll with it though.

Caesar: We'll make it. We've gone through a lot already, right.

Kalia remained silent, not wanting to think of the hidden meaning behind Caesar's words at the moment. Slowly, she turned her head towards Grey, sitting at the far end of the bar, staring into his drink apparently lost in though. Idly she wondered what he was thinking about, how this group of comrades of necessity had just recently become comrades in war. She wondered of his other mission, one that history would apparently villainize him for if the masses were to ever find out. For a brief moment, although she would not realize it until far later, her heart went out to him.

This silent exchange however, had not escaped Reika's notice. Although she seemingly remained carefree, she was nonplussed that her intentions were forced to be put on hold due to contrivance. The longer that the issues between Kalia and Dante Atrades remained unresolved, the more likely that the fallout from them would end up consuming her. However, as was said before, Kalia's silent exchange with Grey had not gone unnoticed.

Pinching her chin in thought, she wondered if maybe... just maybe... that Kalia could possibly find shelter, if even for a little while, from the storm she knew damn well was battering her soul...

----------------

At the very moment the barmaid entered the back room, her countenance and demeaner changed to stern and professional. Shutting the door behind her, 'Ulala' raised a hand to her ear.

Richter: Agent Lenard, are you secure?

Annette Lenard: I am now.

Richter: Give me your report.

Annette: Zilrandian female, violet hair and eyes, light blue tail, in possession of at least two guns, provocative state of dress... Exactly as you described.

Richter: So I wasn't imagining things. Why would Reybrana make a move after dismissing Lord Arkham's plea? It doesn't make sense.

Annette: Do you believe them to be involved in Dagrahn's death?

Richter: The timing is too perfect to be a coincidence, and now they've apparently alligned with the rebels.

Annette: Rhodius was never the type to hire on offworlders. Could they simply have their own agenda?

Richter: One that conveniently coincides with the rebels, you mean? *sigh* There's something we're missing. Continue your observations, and find out anything you can about our 'guests' purposes.

Annette: I already have thoughts on how to accomplish that. Will that be all, Captain?

Richter: I hope your efforts bear more fruit than ours. Dismissed.

As soon as the transmission ended, Anette quickly went back into character, making sure to acquire a suitbly aged vintage from the racks as she did so. Without missing a beat, she returned to the bar as if nothing out of the ordinary had ever transpired.

-------------

*The world turns to black as Westminster Chimes sound. Children cheer as the caption reads 'Act 1 complete'.*

*static*

A dark room.

*static*

Chains hanging everywhere.

*static*

A figure is seen impaled by many of the chains, bloody and seemingly dead.

*static*

His face is now zoomed in, his eyes covered by his hair.

*static*

Ouroboros makes a twisted grin as the room begins to glow sickening a blood red.

*static*

(End of Act 1)

[skylark]

Reybrana, months previous...

Lark: Well Kalia. How does it feel being an adult?

Kalia: A bit more underwhelming than I thought. So how many letters have I gotten from potential suitors...?

Lark: Three already came in. It's like they were waiting for the exact moment. Bastards.

Kalia: Thank you for holding them off these past few years, Dad.

Lark: Well, I still have a lot to do in that regard. At the very least, the only ones I'm even gonna THINK of considering are those who at least look your age. At least half of those I fended off were at least in their sixties...

Both father and daughter suppress a shudder as they try for more pleasant topics. However...

Murdoch: *holding a familiar-looking sword* Boss, found it.

Lark: Thank you, Commander. *presents the sword to Kalia* I figured the time came to give this back to you.

Lark watches as his daughter stares at the sheathed Sword of Falis in her hands, an impassive expression on her face. For some strange reason though, the king felt a sudden sense of forboding. His brief premonition unfortunately held true, as in the space of an instant, Kalia's expression to from impassive to barely restrained rage. With a cry of anger, the princess tossed the sheathed weapon as far as she was able, startling the gathered guards and servants.

Murdoch: Your Highness!

Lark: *holding back his sudden horror* Kalia! What the hell's gotten into you?!

Kalia: *still staring at the blade* I never want to see that thing again.

Lark's eyes could only widen at her tone. Horror completely set in as he immediately realized the implications.

The woman in front of him, at least for the moment, was not the Kalia he had raised for years in happiness and comfort. No, the Kalia in front of him was the girl of a fractured timeline who had lost her family and the one single reason she had been able to survive the chaos of the Zeirite invasion, embittered and jaded by the fact that the boy she once loved unconditionally had forced her existence continue when all she had wanted was to disappear with the dark future.

He had put all his hopes onto trying to offset the tragedies of the ruined future with the happiness and safety of the present. He had put all his hopes... and in the end, it was all for nothing.

Lark: Kalia.

Kalia: I'm going to retire to my room. I don't feel too well.

As Kalia left the main hall, Lark fell to his knees in despair. The very scenario he had feared for the past thirteen years had come to pass. There was no way around it now.

He had to contact Techno...

------------------

Reika: Okay, I need a drink.

Kalia: Aunt Reika, we could always just go back to the Camel.

Reika: Nah. If I'm gonna be stranded here, I might as well see what the city has to offer.

Kalia: *sigh* So much for keeping a low profile...

Reika: What was that? >.>

Kalia: Nothing! ^_^

Reika: Well, this looks like a nice place.

Kalia scrunched her nose when they entered the Wailing Sands. Compared to the Camel, it looked more like a dive than a respectable establishment. All kinds of shady characters seemed to make this place their home. Especially the giant with the mop of red hair... whom oddly seemed suddenly familiar.

Reika: Huh. I could swear I've seen that guy before...

Beastman: *drunk* Winner and still champion! *flexes* Any more of you chumps wanna try and break my streak?

Reika: Holy crap... Brutus? Is that you?!

Brutus Dahnrey: Wazzat..? Hey, which one of you bastards ordered fish?

*raucus laughter and wolf-whistles from the patrons*

Reika: Ahh, right. Seventeen years. Been a while.

Brutus: Hey, we even got a new waitress. Gimme something from the top shelf! XD

Kalia: *glares*

Reika: Ooh, Brutus, I think ya dun goofed.

Kalia immediately takes a seat across from Brutus and gets her arm into position.

Brutus: Ooh, a challenger. Alright, but don't expect special treatment.

However, try as he might, Brutus could not get Kalia's arm to budge.

Reika: Kalia, just flip him already. 9_9

Brutus: Kalia...?

Much to the shock of Brutus and the other patrons, Kalia literally flips the giant beastman over onto his ass.

Brutus:

Reika: Does that mean we win the pot?

Brutus: Okay, that sobered me... Kalia? Cain's kid?

Kalia:

Reika: 'Bout time.

-------------------

Kalia: Sorry for the mess. ^_^

Brutus: But seriously. This kid was in diapers last time I saw her. What happened?

Reika: Girls do grow up, Brutus.

Brutus: ...despite evidence to the contrary. >.>

Reika: *blows raspberry*

Brutus: Bad luck getting caught in the war though. You'd think they would've waited until everyone not involved in the war had found a ship and left before setting up martial law.

Reika: How long have you been here? Isn't Miira with you?

Brutus: .......

Kalia: Aunt Reika... >.>

Brutus: ......Miira and I had a falling out years back. As soon as we touched down on this rock, she took the Vagrant and left. Been here ever since... and no, I'd rather not talk about it.

Reika: I'm so sorry... D:

Brutus: Ehh. I've had a while to get over it. Then again, I suppose some wounds never really heal...

Kalia: You can say that again...

Brutus: >.>

Reika: >_>

Kalia: What?

Brutus: Anyway, I'd wish you luck in not getting involved in the war, but something tells me that's a pipe dream.

Reika and Kalia immediately tense up.

Brutus: And with that, I'm probably gonna need to explain. Rassid, in spite of the fact it's a civil war, is considered sacred ground. It's the only real city on the continent, if not the whole damn world. Everybody keeps their conflicts, civil or otherwise, out in the sands where they belong. Everybody knows both sides have operations running in the walls, but it's more of an information war than anything. Even if other people know you're playing for the other side, they won't start anything. Not in the city. Not on holy land. Once you leave the walls though, all bets are off.

Reika: I see... Anyway, it's been good catching up.

Brutus: Oh, one more thing. There's a good chance that guy knows you're here too. Watch yourself.

Kalia: Wha...?

Reika: Mutual aquaintence. It's nothing Kalia.

Kalia: Alright... >.>

[skylark]

Interlude

6 months before the Merging...

Murdoch: You okay, boss?

Reika: Considering Kalia disappeared during my watch, I'd say no.

Lark: .....if Kalia wanted to make a trip, I would have made reservations somewhere. If she wanted to fight in a freaking tournament, I would've either signed her up or held one in Reybrana. Nope. This has 'Dante' written all over it.

Reika: *snorts*

Murdoch: You know, one would think you'd just fly over there and stop it by yourself. Why bring us?

Lark: They're your contacts, and I want to try and be as subtle about this as possible before the kids realize we're onto them.

Murdoch: So you're bringing Reika?

*beat*

Lark: Yeah, hindsight's a pain in the ass, isn't it?

Murdoch: Damn straight.

Reika: Hey...! =<

Meanwhile...

Dante Atrades: Top of the world!

Kalia: I was here first.

Dante:

Kalia: Come on, Dante. I know you.

Dante: Anyway... what do you think of our chances?

Caesar: Against the muggles? No contest. It's all gonna come down to us in the end.

Ilayne: As long as we get to split the prize, it'll be worth slipping away from our parents.

Caesar: Speaking of, how did you you guys sneak away?

All: No comment.

Caesar: But seriously, you guys picked a hell of a view. What's this place called?

Dante: I think it's Hamnipas.

Ilayne: >.>... <.<... >.>...

Kalia: It looks like a nice town... but for some reason, it makes me feel sad...

Dante: Huh... now that you mention it...

Ilayne: *cringes*

Caesar: So, whoever's last to sign up gets to foot the bill for the victory feast!

All at once, the other three teleport and/or fly off of the roof they were on.

Caesar: .......Hmmmmmmmmmm...........................

------------

Some time later...

Dante: Alright guys, wish me luck!

As Dante leaves for his first match...

Caesar: Well, there he goes. So, you guys gonna cut loose right off the bat or just play around a bit?

Ilayne: Let's just get this done fast. There's no telling when our parents'll start putting two and two together.

Caesar: Come on Spud, don't be such a spoilsport. I think we've left behind enough misdirection to leave them scratching their heads for days.

At that moment, a familiar figure appears behind him without his noticing, crossing his arms. Kalia and Illayne share a look of horror.

Kalia: Caesar...

Caesar: Eh, maybe your old man might be a tough one, but chances are he'll be too busy trying to babysit your caretaker to worry about for at least another day.

Lark: Funny. So who babysits you when Kiyone and Zero are busy?

*beat*

Caesar: For the record, that is a very accurate observation, Your Majesty.

Murdoch: *imitating the Price Is Right losing horn*

Kalia: *laughing nervously* Daddy... We weren't expecting to see you here... *whimpers*

Lark: Clearly. Where's Dante?

*The sounds of cheering can be heard in the stands outside.

Lark: *mutters* Sunuvabitch... Welp, he's a lost cause. You two on the other hand, if you head home right now, maybe I won't tell your parents what you've been up to.

Caesar: You drive a hard bargain, sir.

Ilayne: *elbows Caesar* We'll take it. =<

Lark: Good job. Ship's waiting.

Ilayne: *mutters* You just had to jynx it for us, didn't you?

Caesar: Yeah. Murphy's being a dick today... >_<

------------------

Dante: Hey guys, check this out!!

Oblivious to his friends new 'escorts', Dante lets loose with a Genesis effect.

Ilayne: Always has to show off, and... hey, are you guys okay?

Caesar: Yeah, anybody have any aspirin?

Kalia: I feel funny...

Dante holds his head in pain as the Genesis effect goes out of control in front of the panicked crowd. Lark, out of pure instinct, steps in front of Kalia and tries to use his own Genesis Rune to stop the backlash.

That... had been a bad idea. Dante, Caesar, Kalia, and Lark all proceeded to collapse.

-------------------

Lark had no idea where he was. The sky was a sickly red-orange, and his surroundings were that of a ruined city. Zeirite and human corpses litter the ground. Sitting atop a large pile of rubble...

?: Huh. That's weird. It's not time to wake up yet...

Lark: Kalia...?

Kalia...?: Oh, it's you. How did you get here? Did Dante screw something up? Typical...

It looked like Kalia, but... something was off...

Kalia?: I wonder why he's still around, anyway... but I suppose you're just too lenient. I mean, you REALLY aren't doing her any favors.

He finally saw her eyes. they were little more than pitch black voids.

Lark: You... you're not...!

Kalia?: And here comes the denial, right on schedule. What's the matter 'Daddy', can't accept that you don't know your daughter as well as you think you do?

At that point, he felt something grab his foot. Around him, the corpses were beginning to rise. All while a black aura emanates from her.

Kalia?: This is all she's going to see in the end. It doesn't matter how much you pamper her and make her feel loved... because for the past 13 years, this is all I'VE seen. There are so many nightmares here that I can't fall asleep, no matter how much I try. *bitterly* Dante and Caesar get to sleep. It must be nice for them.

The surroundings begin to fade into white.

Kalia?: Huh, guess it's time for you to wake up. Oh well. You tried your best for her, but when the time comes...

She'll choose the fantasy over the reality, and it'll kill her... but isn't that what she wanted all along?

-------------------

Lark woke up 3 days later in Raybrana, surrounded by his family and inner circle, though Monica was strangely absent. However, unknownst to anyone, a subtle terror would overtake him whenever Kalia's future was discussed. He did not know what the significance of his dream - if it really was one - meant, but he only knew one thing. Kalia's well-being would be his top priority. It was something he always did, but now there was an urgency there had never been before. All he could do now though, was weather the storm and believe the Merging would go off without a hitch...

[skylark]

After sending Kalia back to the Camel...

Reika: Hey lady. Do you have any boquets for sale? There's a gift for someone I want to give and-

The woman turns around, suddenly leaving Reika in an absolutely rare bout of silence. Her face was familiar. Too damn familiar.

?: I'm sorry, but I already closed up shop. You're welcome to come back tomorrow though.

Reika: *almost whispering* Schala...? But that can't be...

Indeed, aside from the short cut white hair, the woman bore a disturbing resemblance to her best friend, both in appearance and voice. It was only with the next words she heard that she put two and two together.

Richter: Celia, step away from that woman.

Celia: Richter? What's going on?

He did it. He actually did it. Of all the things he could have done. Reika's anger immediately reached a boiling point as she turned and drew her gun at Lark's old nemesis... with one of Ricter's katanas immediately at her throat, all to Celia's sudden shock.

Reika: You sick bastard. You couldn't stand the thought of not having her, so you... How dare you!!

Richter: *narrows eyes*

Celia: Wait... does she know?

Richter: *without looking away from Reika* Celia, get inside.

Celia: Richter, does she know?!

Richter: I won't ask again! Get inside!

Celia, initially resigning herself to go back inside her shop, proceeds to grab his ponytail and pull him to her eye level. Naturally, the tense standoff was broken, with Reika's previous anger giving way to a hell of a lot of confusion.

Celia: If she knows, it only right to tell her, right dear?

Richter: Celia, let go! DX

Celia: I'm sorry about this. Please, come inside. I'll have some tea ready for you. ^_^

Reika: *utterly flabbergasted* .....wat.

-----------------------

(A bit later...)

Celia: The person I'm... 'modeled' after must be quite a good friend of yours, otherwise you wouldn't have reacted as you did back there.

Reika: *nods awkwardly*

Richter: *grumbles*

Celia: So, I'm sure you have questions. Ask away.

Reika: So... you're aware that you're a...

Celia: Clone, yes.

Reika: ...and you're okay with this?

Celia: Well, having your first memories while inside a regeneration pod leaves little room to doubt. I was able to deal.

Reika: Then you have to know why that guy-

Celia: I'm aware of his grudges... and I've seen his obsession from his vessel's security footage.

Richter: ....

Reika: ...then why? I would've thought he'd make you just like her.

Celia: Intentions change, though sometimes it takes a hell of a push. I formed well enough, but he was frustrated as to why I wasn't waking up. He was... unused to the idea of the uniqueness of souls. Then one day, his ship was nearly out of fuel, so he made landfall on a relatively unknown world. I think it was called Udusona...

Reika: *looks at Richter*

Richter: *shivers*

Celia: I don't know what he saw on that world, but it frightened him beyond anything he probably could have imagined. He was ready to scrap his entire project right then and there... but he couldn't go through with it. Regardless of his intentions, he had created a life, and a responsibility to nurture that life to the best of his ability. Life and Soul gave me awareness, and Time gave me wisdom. Only then did he give me a name, one that once belonged to his brother's fiance' before they were taken by the Claudius Foundation. He had let go of his obsession with Schala, although I doubt his grudge with her husband will ever be truly sated...

Reika: ....

Celia: When it was finally time to wake up, Richter told me everything, my original purpose, his grudges, his sins... but then he gave me a choice. He gave me his sword, and if I couldn't forgive him for any of it, I was free to strike him down. All he asked is that I live as myself, no matter my choice.

--------------

(back outside...)

Celia: It was a pleasure to meet you, Miss Onin... and don't worry about the bouqet. It's on the house. ^_^

Reika: Umm... same. *to herself* Awkwardness aside...

Celia: I should have been going a while ago. The kids must be getting restless.

Reika: *almost squeaking* Kids...? *stares at Richter*

Richter: *clearly uncomfortable* Okay Celia, I think it's time to keep moving...

As Celia waves farewell, Richter stays behind just a bit longer, allowing the awkwardness to fade.

Richter: *gravely* If you dare make any kind of trouble for her...

Richter allowed the warning to hang in the air before leaving.

First being reunited with Brutus, and now this...

Reika: *sigh* I was sooo not ready for today... =<

------------

'Ulala': Well, this was a first. Somebody sent me a bouqet of Sand Lillies.

Reika: *blushes* ^_^

Caesar: What are you so happy about? We were out in the desert doing work.

Kalia: There's sand in places it should never be in. =<

Ilayne: At least we avoided border guards. That's something. What the hell was in that box anyway?

Grey: Miniature Aqueius Crystals. Put one in your canteen and you'll have a personal water supply for weeks... or days depending on how thirsty a guy is.

Caesar: Speaking of thirsty, mission accomplished? Cause after that mess, I think I need to get hammered. =S

'Ulala': Hey now, let's not squeeze out all our hospitality at once. Nobody's having anything until I get these shelves restocked. *looks purposefully at Reika* Any volunteers?

Reika: *gets up immediately, knocking over her stool* I'll help!

As Reika goes to follow Ulala...

Kalia: Unbelievable.

Caesar: I know. Why does she get the easy job when we had to bust our asses?

Kalia sighs and shakes her head, for some reason extremely glad the Son of Zero hasn't put two and two together yet.

Kalia: *quietly* Even you end up finding somebody out here... so where does that leave me...?

Grey: Kalia, is something wrong?

Kalia: Huh?

Grey: You looked kind of sad for a moment. Are you feeling alright?

Kalia: N-no, I'm fine.

Caesar: *nudges Ilayne with an elbow* So, how long until those two hook up?

Ilayne: Seriously? >.>

Caesar: I don't know. Got a good feeling.

Ilayne: .....my money's on Kalia staying dense until after this is all over.

Caesar: I'll take those odds.

A loud crash is heard in the back.

Porter: Oi! You two right in there?

Reika: *from the back* Owowowow...

Kalia: I think they're fine... >_<

Grey: Well, if anything's troubling you, you can always talk to me.

Kalia: I... thank you.

After a companionable silence... Kalia's somewhat sensitive hearing picks up slight giggles from the back... followed by...

Kalia:

Grey: What is it?

Kalia: Oh, goddammit Reika...! D:

Grey: What's this about...? *strains to listen...* ....oh dear.

Bully: Hey, the hell's going on back there?!

*loud clangs and other noises from the back*

'Ulala': Sorry boss!

Reika: Found the good stuff!

Kalia: *mutters* I'll bet.

Grey: *tries to hold in a laugh*

[skylark]

A few more days pass...

Caesar: Hooray. We've moved up the ladder to base raids.

Kalia: At least we've moved up at all. Maybe if we're lucky, we'll find something that can magically force both sides to understand each other and stop fighting.

Ilayne: That's a little too optimistic to be real. Or was that supposed to be sarcasm?

Grey: Well, the run's happening tomorrow, so we'd better get some sleep.

Caesar: Speaking of, where's Reika?

Kalia: *rolls eyes*

--------

Annette: 'Okay, I've spiked her booze with enough truth serum to make a mime talk. This and the other thing had better work.

'Ulala': *massaging Reika's shoulders* We've known each other for weeks now, and it finally occurs to me I don't know that much about you. *purring* So tell me, what makes Reika Onin tick...?

Reika: *rambles* Well, I'm the youngest of four girls, two normal, two newhalves... okay, three girls considering Selena's dead, the bitch. *hic* Anyway, I used to be married to one of the last Zilrandian men in existence before the Twilight went on a murder spree, and I ended up a pariah because GRANDMA wanted to pull some wife-husbandry because of bullshit about 'pure bloodlines' and 'our family tracing its roots back to the Spawning'. Traditionalist bs, I'm telling you. *hic* If I wanted to be part of that, I'd have married one of my other sisters. Actually, that might still be an option. Seriously, Yulie's the bestest and coolest girl I've ever known, she's awesome in the sack, you'd love her. You're probably thinking that's weird of me to say, but the whole Westermark Effect thing? We Zilrandians weren't built with that in mind, so you're looking at 187 generations of inbreeding, and that's nothing compared to the Juraiians. Seriously, they're about as weird as us, but nobody bats an eye around them. Is it because we're all female? But seriously, Grandma is a bitch, no wonder Selena went nuts... but then I'd never have met Lark and Schala and fell in love all over again... except they probably wouldn't be too keen on the whole threesome thing, plus interactions with Kalia would be really awkward. *hic* You have pretty eyes. ^_^

'Ulala':

Annette: 'Huh. Looks like I may have put too much serum in- wahhh!'

Reika: Nookie time!

--------------------

The next day...

Grant: You're certain these people aren't willingly involved?

Annette: They've complained enough that I'm convinced that if we lifted the marshal law, Onin's party would head off-world in a heartbeat.

Grant: Unfortunately, Lord Arkham will do no such thing.

Annette: Which leaves us with a potential intergalactic incident on our hands.

Steiner: Seriously. Princess of Reybrana, huh? *sigh* It's always the cute ones that are out of your reach.

Flint: So, we either go ahead with the ambush and risk bringing the hammer of a freaking legend on us, or we bug out and let Rhodius take the spoils we were using as bait. Am I the only one who realizes that we're screwed either way?

Grant: And then there's the matter of Prince Grey...

Steiner: Has the old man finally decided the kid's a lost cause?

Annette: That may not be the case much longer. A schism has been building between Rhodius and Tornan for some time. Rhodius has become quite paranoid as of late, especially in light of one of his inner circle being a 'traitor'-

Grant: Your doing, no doubt.

Annette: ...and it may be only a matter of time before he abolishes whatever agreement they have and sees him as a liability. Given what Commander Enzo has informed us...

Grant: *looking at a worn tome* Grey doesn't know the truth yet. As long as he believes the king's death was unjustified, he will not see our side...

Flint: So we're back to square one. So how are we gonna deal with all this?

Richter: We do our duty. Nothing more, nothing less. As far as I'm concerned, if they choose to fight, whatever happens is on them.

Jin: That's nice and all, but where's this trap of yours gonna happen? It's not gonna be the outpost near the Zommari, is it? Dalaghn informed me that she was gonna be doing some last-minute tests for her project over there.

Grant: None of us were informed.

Jin: She wanted it hush-hush or something. Anyway, Zommari's not my jurisdiction, so it's not my problem. *leaves*

Flint: And the complications keep on piling up...

Richter: It changes nothing. Stick to the plan.

As everyone heads out to leave...

Annette: *quietly* Commander, there's one more thing...

Grant: What is it?

Annette: I was among those sent to confirm Dagrahn's death. At the sight there was a creature larger than any of the sandworms I had ever encountered in the dunes. Everyone else claimed it was merely some mutant strain, but it looked almost too much like a person, so I had taken a sample of its blood for analysis. I had just aquired the results before the meeting...

Grant: What are you saying...?

Annette: That creature was no mutant worm. It was Dagrahn.

Grant: ...heresy? Amongst the Guard?

Annette: I wasn't sure wether or not to inform Lord Arkham. This goes goes completely against-

Grant: I know. I'm glad you brought this to me. Arkham would not have taken this news well... '...and now Dalaghn is acting on her own. Could it be that...?

Annett: Commander?

Grant: Continue with Richter and the others. I have inquiries to make...

Annett: *salutes* Sir!

As Annett leaves the room...

Grant: *clenches fist* 'So even the Guard has been compromised by the Coven. Why wasn't I informed of this...?!'

------------------------

Later, in the Wailing Sands...

Brutus: Hey, barkeep, I think my butt's made a dent in the stool. Gonna need another.

Barkeep: I think you've had enough.

Brutus: Stools or booze?

Grant: Both.

Brutus: Woah! You're gonna give someone a heart attack there, pal.

Grant: I need to talk business.

*Everybody makes a beeline to the exit. The barkeep heads out into the back.*

Brutus: If it's info you want, I'm all out.

Grant: What do you know of the Yai'al?

Brutus: ...I know enough to stay the hell away unless I wanna get lynched. What does the commander of Arkham's forces want with them anyway? If you're looking for a witch hunt, I ain't interested.

Grant: That's too bad, because if nothing's done, then mutual acquaintances on both sides of the conflict are about to be thoroughly hosed.

Brutus: ........I'm listening.

*Grant hands Brutus what look like ordinary brass knuckles...*

Grant: I hear you were once quite the pugilist. Perhaps it's time to scrape the rust off.

------------------

Meanwhile...

Dalaghn: Welp, this is awkward.

*An image of Richter and his team setting up their ambush can be seen through a nearby monitor.*

Dalaghn: This is bad. If they find out what's here... No wait... I can use this. Well, in for a penny...

*A loud horrifying roar can be heard as she pulls a lever.

------------------

Kalia: Seriously, did you have to rub oil on yourself on the way here? D:

Reika: It's suntan oil.

Caesar: Then why do I smell canola?

Ilayne: *muttering* Give me strength... >_<

Reika: Ooh, a silver! *bends down to pick it up*

At that moment, a bright flash is seen... and a gunshot rings out... missing our heroes by a country mile and richocheting off of several nearby pipes.

Steiner: Yo, Annette! What the hell?! D:

Annette: *blinking, rubbing her eyes, and shaking her head* Oww... sonuvabitch... >_<

Flint: Welp. Didn't see that coming.

Reika: Ulala...?

Annette: Reika.

Kalia: Reika... >.>

Richter: *drawing sword* Tsukoyamo!

Grey: Tsukoyamo?

Reika: *draws gun* Richter!

Ilayne: Caesar!

Flint: Chief!

Steiner: McCloud!

Caesar: Huh. I wonder whatever happened to that fic...

The standoff is tense. However, just as things were about to escelate...

*microphone feedback. everyone holds their ears*

Hey guys. It's me. Listen, this has been on the back burner for about a year and a half. I know you want to get this fight over with, but can we do the really really short version? Thanks.

Everyone stands still, unsure of what to do until...

Kalia: *charges at Richter* AHHHHH!

Richter: *Holds Kalia back by her forhead without even looking while she Impotently tries to swing at him* So this is is what you've been teaching your next of kin now, Cain? *sigh*

To be continued... -->

[skylark]

Added a new part to the end of the last chapter.

[skylark]

The fighting had been intense, but in the end...

Reika: Okay, Kalia? Sweetie? Stop. This is just embarrassing.

*Kalia has given up on her sword and still tries to trudge forward in Richter's grip, waving her fists uselessly.*

Kalia: I can do this! This guy can't just insult my dad, dammit! DX

Richter: Are you done?

Kalia: Oh wait. *pop as time slows to a stop* Forgot I could do that. :3

*As she gets ready to clobber her opponent, he grabs her fist mid-swing and glares at her.*

Kalia: Wait, what the hell?!! D:

Richter: Useless.

*Time resumes as Kalia is tossed into the nearest object.*

Caesar: Was that... was that a JOJO reference?!

Ilayne: Caesar, not the time...

Richter: I must say, this was easier than I thought.

*Richter's team however, does not see or hear the monsters forming behind them.*

Richter: This would usually be the part where you were asked to surrender...

*One of the monsters lunges straight for Richter, only for him to turn around and bisect it without missing a beat.*

Richter: *leveling his sword at the party* ...but I don't take prisoners.

Steiner: Uhh, guys...? D:

*Richter's group finally notices the monsters gathering around both groups.*

Annette: Well. This might be problematic.

Grey: Dammit... no choice.

*Grey unleashes his power, turning the beasts to dust. Annette, Flint, and Steiner immediatly turn their weapons on Grey.*

Flint: Awesome. And now we learn the crown prince is a damn Heretic.

Caesar: You know, that 'heresy' just saved our lives. Could you maybe hold off the witch-hunting while we figure out what the hell is going on?!

Steiner: But... but it's vaugely-defined law that has to be followed without question or reason! D:

Ilayne: So your saying that if the law tells you to lynch anybody born from the two sides of this thing, you just go ahead and do it?!

Annette/Flint: *without missing a beat* Yes!

*Nobody but Richter notices Steiner's sudden eye twitch.*

Steiner: *a bit uncharicteristicly agitated* Okay, I'll play Devil's Advocate. Let's just assume the whole heretic thing is a load of bs. What do we do?

Richter: No.

Caesar: Enemy Mine? Least until these things get cleared out.

Richter: No!

Flint: Are you serious?!

Reika: Well, you can either help us or you can sit back and watch as another one of your own fellows tries to undermine your cause.

*Annette tries to level a glare, but then remembers her conversation with Grant.*

Annette: *finally lowers her weapon* Son of a bitch... >_<

Richter: Oh come on! D:

Flint: *hears monstrous roars from above* You know what? Maybe letting bygones be bygones isn't so bad... =<

Richter: This day cannot get any worse.

*A group of beasts bursts through the vents above...*

Brutus: DYNAMIC ENTRY!!!

*With a single punch each, the anointed brass knuckles turn the monsters to ash.*

Brutus: I feel better than I have in years!

Richter: .....Althena, why have you forsaken me? . _ .

*to be added later*