Chapter Forty-Eight: The Boy Who Cried Dragon!

Arkain woke up to five figures standing above him.
Pathion
Finally he’s awake. I thought he’d sleep forever.
Vesper
He looked so peaceful.
Tusa
Yum.
Arkain stood up.
Arkain
Can I help you?
Syn
No, we’re going to help you.
Arkain
Oh yeah, training.
Pathion put his arm around him.
Pathion
Relax buddy, it’s going to be fun. Before you know it you’ll be ready to take on all the bad guys.
Arkain
I can do that now.
Pathion looked at Arkain like he just told a bad joke.
Pathion
You really don’t know what you’re up against. The likes of Ximendos won’t be beaten by a little boy with an attitude.
Arkain took his arm off of him.
Arkain
I never said I was against you guys training me.
Cameron appeared.
Cameron
Well good, because you need it.
Arkain gave him a dirty look.
Arkain
Alright, let’s get this started.
Syn
Excellent. We will start now.
Arkain
When will this be done?
Darby
A couple of hours.
Arkain
That’s some quick training. Why so fast?
Pathion
We work fast. We’ll teach you some hand to hand combat skills. After that we’ll give you some energy. And then after that, as asked by Fallen, we’ll give you a sword.
Arkain looked puzzled.
Arkain
I have one already.
Pathion
You don’t have a Dragon’s sword. It’s not just any old sword. It’s one of the most powerful weapons anyone has.
Arkain
Who else has one of these Dragon swords?
Pathion
There are only five swords in the entire world. Ximendos has one. His two kids have one, we heard, and Cameron has one. And of course, the last one Fallen is carrying.
Arkain
Cameron, you have one?
Cameron
Yes I do.
Arkain
Awesome!
Syn
Cameron, we’ll need you later for a demonstration of your sword.
Cameron nodded.
Cameron
She’s been dying for me to let him loose.
Arkain
Okay cool. So what are we waiting for? Let’s get started.
Pathion
Right this way, your highness.
Pathion pointed towards the ocean. They disappeared.
Fallen
Well, everything is going as planned.
Fallen stretched his body.
Cameron
Yes, it is. It’s funny how it all went so well. I thought it would be a tad bit more difficult to bring Arkain around.
Fallen
The purest of heart are always the easiest to paint your color.
Cameron smiled.
Cameron
I can’t argue with that. I must say though, I really do like Arkain. He’s not the stupid kid I thought he was.
Fallen
He never has been. Sure, he has the attitude of a human but he is most definitely one of us.
Fallen looked up at Cameron.
Fallen
I knew you’d like him. You two are a lot of the same person.
Cameron
I’ve noticed.
Fallen laughed.
Cameron
Why are you laughing?
Fallen
No reason. I just felt like laughing.
Fallen stood up.
Fallen
I really do hope the sword answers to him.
He licked his paw.
Cameron
As do I. At the moment Ximendos holds three swords. We need another.
Fallen
That we do.
Cameron
The Dragon Sword must become Arkain’s.
Fallen
I really do hope so. Arkain has a lot to do for us.
Cameron smiled.
Fallen
Don’t go becoming too close to him.
Cameron
I know. I treat my tools well. Letting them think we’re friends is a part of the deal.
Fallen jumped into his arms.
Fallen
Good, now let’s go get us some breakfast. I think Velis and Malic would like to come along. Let’s go get them.



Iris woke up due to her bed moving.
Ilias
Wake up, sister.
Iris opened her eyes.
Iris
What do you want?
Ilias
I’ve come to speak with you. I didn’t have a chance to do it yesterday.
Iris rolled the other way so she wouldn’t be facing him.
Iris
I don’t care. We no longer have anything to talk about.
Ilias
That’s not true.
He lied down next to her looking up.
Ilias
We have loads to talk about. Where were you last night, by the way?
Iris
None of your business.
Ilias
While that’s true, I’d still like to know.
Iris mumbled.
Ilias
I can’t hear you.
Iris took her face off her pillow.
Iris
I found Cameron. I tried to kill him.
Ilias
I knew it. Little Iris always going for the gold.
He chuckled.
Ilias
So I take it he’s dead?
Iris put her face back into the pillow.
Ilias
I’ll take that as a no. What happened?
Iris
Fallen showed up.
Ilias
Oh dear, he ruins everything. No worries, you’ll get him next time.
Iris
I’m sure of it. I was going to use my sword, but they disappeared.
Ilias
Well good thing you didn’t. You would have been in trouble with father. You know the rules.
Iris
No drawing swords until after the cleansing.
Ilias
Yes. Not only would it waste too much energy, it would be pointless. In the new world they can run free all they’d like. Until then, it would be wise to keep them hidden. As it is, everyone is doing the same.
Iris
There is also another problem.
Ilias
And that would be?
Iris
I’ll tell you when I tell father.
Ilias
That’s fine. I have something to tell you anyways.
Iris
Yeah, what’s that?
The door opened.
Akasha
Good, you’re both awake.
She stepped in.
Akasha
We’re having a meeting. Get your things and meet in the white hall.
They both nodded and she left.
Iris
You were saying?
Ilias got off the bed.
Ilias
I’ll just tell you later. After the meeting, if I am up to it.
Iris
That is fine with me.
Ilias bent down and kissed her on the forehead.
Ilias
I will see you in a few.
Iris
Will do.
Iris smiled. He left the room.


Nicholas walked outside into the sun.
Anna
Good morning, Nicholas.
Anna stood in the sun with a cigarette and a shotgun.
Nicholas
What are you doing out here?
Anna
I’m just relaxing.
Nicholas
With a gun?
Anna
It’s called protection. Relax, I’m not going to shoot anyone.
Nicholas
I hope not.
Anna motioned for him to come sit next to her.
Nicholas
It’s almost noon. This day is passing by quickly.
Anna
Yup. Two more days until we can attack. If it wasn’t for that damn Fallen person we would have already attacked.
Nicholas
I’m kind of glad we didn’t.
Anna looked at Nicholas with wide eyes.
Anna
And why is that?
Nicholas
We’re all still alive.
He looked at her while his hands were clasped together. She aimed the shotgun to the sky.
Anna
Better dead than ruled by these monsters.
Nicholas
I wouldn’t mind if Amros was the leader of the world.
Again she looked at him in horror.
Anna
You can’t be serious. He’s a monster.
Nicholas
A good one. Although I wouldn’t call him a monster.
Anna
All the same. They’re not God’s creations.
Nicholas
And we are?
Anna
I’d like to think so. We are perfect.
Nicholas
I would have thought God’s creations would have at least have been able to defend themselves.
Anna
We can.
Nicholas
I’d like to see you face Ximendos.
Anna
I would if I could.
Nicholas
Sounds like suicide.
Anna
I have God on my side. He would guide me to victory.
Nicholas
Is that so?
Anna
Yes it is.
Nicholas
I wouldn’t put too much faith in that, Molly.
Anna
I walk by faith, not by sight.
Nicholas
So why are you here?
Anna
Excuse me?
Nicholas
If God is behind you and you walk by faith, why aren’t you meeting Ximendos at his gates right now?
Anna was shocked by these words.
Nicholas
I’m tired of hearing things like that. If you walk by faith, by all means walk by it. But if so, close your eyes and really do it. Don’t just say it, do it. Close your eyes and let God guide you. If not, you’re just full of air.
He stood up.
Nicholas
With all due respect, do what you preach, don’t just open your mouth and talk.
Nicholas walked inside. Anna, upset, fired a shot in the air.
Anna
I’ll show you. I’ll show you all.

Emmylou
Oh shit!
The car began to slow down.
Suri
What’s going on?
Conor
Please tell me you just need to go to the rest room.
Emmylou turned to Suri.
Emmylou
Flat tire.
Suri
Shit.
Conor
Oh no!
The car stopped.
Conor
Where are we?
Emmylou
Last time I saw a sign we were in Ohio.
Conor
Well that’s not that far from the Empire’s home.
Emmylou
We’ll have to walk to the next town.
Ian woke up.
Suri
That’s all we can do.
They each got off the car.
Ian
Where we going?
Conor
We have to walk now.
Ian
What’s wrong with the car?
Conor rolled his eyes.
Conor
It doesn’t work anymore.
Ian
Did you break it?
Conor
No, your sister did.
Emmylou
I did not.
Conor
Sure, whatever.
They started walking.
Ian
I don’t want to walk!
Conor
You don’t have a choice.
Suri
I can carry you.
Emmylou
It’s okay, he can walk.
Suri
No, it’s totally fine. I won’t even feel him on my back.
Ian got on top of Suri’s back.
Suri
See, he’s as light as air.
Ian
Go!
Ian pointed forward.
Conor
This is going to suck.
Emmylou
You’re telling me.
And then they saw it.
Suri
This isn’t good.
At a distance on the road stood two giant Gears.
Emmylou
What do we do?
Conor
Shit, shit, and shit.
Suri
Doesn’t look like we can get around them and I don’t think they’re just going to let us pass. Looks like I’ll have to fight them.
Conor
How that hell can you do that? You’re as big as their feet.
Suri
Well looks like I’ll just have to take their feet off.
Emmylou
You sure you want to do this?
Suri
It’s our only option.

Amros, Hayden, Roselyn, and Grey all stood in the sun viewing the mountains.
Grey
In two days my fighters will be prepared for an attack.
Roselyn smiled.
Amros
Good. By that time all we will have to do is remove Ximendos and Akasha and capture Ilias. Once that is done, things will shift in our favor.
Roselyn
If all goes as you say, things will be perfect.
Amros
I have faith things will go as I’ve planned. The key here is Ilias.
Hayden
That it is. If we can remove Ximendos nothing will stand in our way. All that will remain is Ilias and a new world.
Grey
I like what you’re saying. If we can kill the new God, the world would be Godless.
Amros
Yes, and finally. This world and these humans have lived long enough with the idea of God.
Roselyn
That they have.
Hayden
Once enacted, they will finally be free from it. After that, with Ilias’ help, this world will finally be perfect.
Roselyn hugged Grey.
Roselyn
I certainly hope so. It sounds so magnificent. You know, the way you describe it.
She looked over at Amros.
Roselyn
And you thought of this idea all on your own?
He nodded.
Roselyn
I always knew you were a brilliant man. Amya spoke highly of you.
Amros
Thank you.
He turned towards them all.
Amros
When Hayden and I realized we’d be losing this world we have to decide on the next best option. This was the best we could think of.
Grey
You did well.
Hayden
The new world will come soon. Once it does, this world will find true peace.
They all smiled.
Roselyn
We can’t wait.
She kissed Grey.
Roselyn
Can I ask you something, Amros?
Amros
Of course.
Roselyn
Why are there five Dragon’s swords and only four Eagle Blades?
Amros put his hand on his chin.
Amros
Well that’s because there only needs to be four eagles. The great eagles are the only threats to the dragons. Four Eagles can take on five dragons is basically what I am getting at.
Roselyn
And you posses one of these swords?
Hayden
We have two.
Hayden smiled at Roselyn.
Roselyn
So we do have a chance.
Amros
Well, Amya has the other. As of now the Empire has three Dragon Swords and one Eagle Blade.
Grey
That doesn’t sound good.
Amros
It’s not. Believe me when I tell you, the coming war is going to be devastating.
Roselyn
I’ll be ready for that.
Grey
As will I. I’m not afraid of a dragon sword.
Roselyn and Grey laughed.
Amros
You should be. These weapons are deadly and destructive.
Hayden
That they are. When dragon fire meets eagles' breath the world will think it is coming to an end. You just watch. You have never seen power like this.
Roselyn
Well it’s a good thing we have at least two Eagles' blades on our side.
Amros
Better than none.
They laughed.
Roselyn
Can we see one?
Amros
An Eagle Blade? I don’t see why not.
He threw his staff up and it transformed into a long white blade.
Amros
Do try and not run.
He threw the blade forward and in a giant flash of light appeared a giant white eagle.
Roselyn
Amazing. The power it is giving off it unbelievable.
He released a giant cry.
Grey
What is it’s name?
Amros
His name is Wynson.
It extended its giant wings.
Roselyn
I can’t believe it.


Ximendos
We have much to discuss.
Ximendos sat at the end of the table with Akasha next to him. Commander Gunner stood behind him. Ilias sat down across from Amya.
Amya
Good morning, Prince Ilias.
Ilias
Good morning, Lady Amya.
She smiled.
Ximendos
Where is your sister?
Iris
Here.
Iris walked in and sat next to Amya.
Iris
Feeling a bit better, Amya?
Amya
Yes I am.
She said a tad bit annoyed.
Ximendos
We have great news.
He said putting his hands together.
Akasha
The Gears have completely wiped out any governmental or religious buildings around the world. If anything remains you will destroy it Ilias.
He nodded.
Akasha
For the bigger news I will let Ximendos give it to you.
Ximendos stood up.
Ximendos
We’ve found her.
Ilias
Who have we found?
Ximendos
Orthak is our master at tracking down people. He located a strong energy source and tracked it down. He is confronting it now. If our guess is correct, the energy source comes from a girl named Suri.


Cameron, Velis, Malic, and Fallen looked down the hill to see Arkain fighting Pathion.
Malic
I see they’re teaching him hand to hand combat.
Velis
Good. Last time I kicked his ass.
Malic laughed.
Cameron
He’ll need all he can get. If he’s supposed to battle Ilias or Iris he’ll need to be strong.
Fallen
That’s what his sword will be for.
Cameron
The problem is they have them as well. They even have Amya.
Fallen
That’s true. Oh well, we can still beat them.
Velis laughed.
Velis
Of course we can! I say we take it to them as soon as possible.
Malic
Don’t mind her guys, she doesn’t think much.
Velis knocked Malic to the floor.
Malic
Stop it!
Velis
That’ll teach you how to shut your mouth.
Pathion and Arkain stopped.
Syn
It is time, Prince Cameron.
Fallen
How exciting.
Fallen jumped out of his arms and ran down the hill to them. Cameron, Velis, and Malic followed.
Arkain
What’s going on now?
Arkain spat blood on the floor.
Syn
Well now that the first two steps are complete, it’s time for the last.
Arkain
Oh yeah, the sword.
Fallen
That’s my cue.
Fallen ran forward to Arkain, stopped in front of him and opened his mouth.
Arkain
What the hell?
As Fallen stepped back a sword handle appeared.
Arkain
Do I?
Pathion
Grab it, idiot.
Arkain grabbed it and pulled it out of Fallen’s mouth.
Pathion
I wonder how he does that.
He said quietly to Vesper.
Pathion
Can you do that?
Vesper
Pig.
Vesper walked away. Arkain held the black blade up to his face.
Arkain
It’s beautiful.
He noticed the purple ruby on the handle.
Arkain
I really do like purple.
Fallen
Oh thank goodness it’s that color. I don’t know what we’d do if it were yellow.
Arkain
I know. I hate yellow.
Fallen walked over to Syn.
Fallen
This process is quite simple. You’ve already managed to get past phase one.
Arkain
Really? How did I do that?
Pathion
I swear, this kids as dumb as you.
Tusa
That’s not nice.
Tusa walked away from Pathion.
Fallen
Not just anyone can carry that blade. If Cameron were to grab it, it would release an energy throwing him away from it.
Arkain looked at the blade again.
Arkain
So it’s mine?
Fallen
Not just yet. The second part is where things get tricky.
Arkain
Why’s that? It already lets me hold it.
Fallen
Yes, but that doesn’t mean you’re friends. That doesn’t mean you’re connected.
Arkain
Connected?
Fallen
Yes, connected.
Syn
That sword you carry is a Dragon Sword. Which means-
Arkain
It’s a dragon? You have to be kidding me.
He looked past the sword to them.
Arkain
You are joking right? I didn't think you guys literally meant a dragon!
Fallen face palmed himself.
Syn
No, we are not kidding. The sword is not only an object, but it is also a living breathing monster.
Arkain
Alright, I’ve had to deal with the fact that I’m an angel. Cameron can use fire, Velis is fast, you guys are some kind of a clan with power, Fallen’s a fox, and Hayden’s an Elf.
Malic
Hey, he didn’t say my name.
Malic was sad. Velis hugged him.
Arkain
And now you’re telling me dragons also exist?
Fallen
Why is that so hard to believe?
Arkain
It’s not that it’s hard, it’s just unreal.
Syn
These swords are Elvin. They are not from your world.
Arkain
Still, we’re talking about dragons here!
Syn
Cameron, please show him your sword.
Cameron
With pleasure.
Cameron stepped forward. A flame appeared before him and he drew a sword from it. Cameron's sword was black with a blue ruby on the handle.
Cameron
Arkain, hold your blade up.
They both raised their blades to their faces.
Arkain
What are we doing?
Cameron
Set your thumb on the ruby.
Arkain
What thumb? Right hand, left hand?
Cameron
It doesn’t matter.
Arkain set his right thumb on the ruby. The ruby began to glow.
Arkain
It’s glowing!
Cameron
Now you’re going to have to think.
Arkain
Okay?
Fallen
This is the hard part, Arkain. The naming of your sword.
Arkain
Thanks!
He said sarcastically to Fallen.
Cameron
You must think, and you must do so with all you have in you.
Arkain
For what?
Cameron
You have to name your sword.
Arkain
I can do that.
Cameron
But if you name it wrong, it will seal itself away from you forever.
Arkain
Well that’s not so bad.
Cameron
And it will kill you.
Arkain lowered the sword.
Arkain
It will kill me?
Pathion
That’s what he said!
Darby
The boy is very funny.
Pathion
Shut up.
Darby walked away from Pathion.
Cameron
You have to concentrate. Think about a name you think will fit your sword. The name must mean something to you. If you get it right, the sword is yours.
Arkain
This doesn’t sound easy anymore.
Fallen
It’s not supposed to be!
Cameron
Now silence. You have to think!
Arkain stood there silently. His heart began to race. After all that has happened, would he die by a sword that was supposed to be his. He tried to clear his head.
Arkain
(This can’t be happening. Stop it Arkain, focus. Come on, name, name, name. How about after my mom? No. That won’t work. What if my swords a boy? Stop it, Arkain! He said it has to mean something to you. Okay, think. Stars! Stars mean something to me. Can’t name my sword star though. That’s a bit girly. What if it’s a girl? No, doubt it. Doesn’t feel like a girl. How can a sword feel like a girl? Stop it! Stop being stupid.)
They all watched Arkain as he silently spoke to himself in his head.
Arkain
(Be serious Arkain. You said stars, so let’s work with that. The stars mean something to you. They breath, they beat, they feel. Well that’s not getting us anywhere. You’ve always wanted to be up in the sky with them. Very close, very safe. It always seemed like that would be the place you’d call home. Yeah, come on, this could work.)
Fallen licked his paw, bored.
Arkain
(You could be up there now. You have the wings. You could be up there now if you wanted to. Just extend your wings and you could be soaring with them.)
They sword shook in his hands.
Arkain
(It just shook. I got close. Just extend your wings. Not that’s not it. And you could be soaring.)
It shook again.
Arkain
(Okay, that’s it. Something with Soaring.)
It shook again.
Arkain
(Okay, it likes that. What could it be what could it be. Soaring. Soar. Soaring.) Soren!
The blade’s ruby began to glow so bright everyone could see it.
Cameron
You’ve found the name.
Arkain smiled.
Arkain
I did. Now I don’t have to die.
Cameron
Well then, let us release our weapons.
Arkain
How do I do that?
Cameron
You must say the name of your sword out loud. Say it like you mean it.
Arkain
Alright. Say it like I mean it.
Cameron
Are you ready?
Arkain
Yes.
Cameron
I will be releasing mine as well.
Arkain
Okay.
Arkain was now sweating.
Cameron
On the count of three.
Arkain’s palms began to sweat.
Cameron
One.
Arkain saw the blue ruby on Cameron’s sword glow bright.
Cameron
Two.
He wondered if he should be Afraid.
Cameron
Three.
This was for all the marbles.
Arkain
Soren!
Cameron
Zuma!
There was a giant flash of light. Blinding even with the sun out.
Arkain
What the hell?
As Arkain got his sight back he saw it. He saw them.
Arkain
No way.
Before his eyes stood two giant dragons. The one closer to Cameron was significantly larger. The one in front of Arkain was smaller and had purple in its color while the one in front of Cameron had blue.
Cameron
What’s wrong, Arkain?
The giant Dragon before Arkain turned towards him. Arkain stood still. His green eyes met its purple ones.
Arkain
Dragons!

Chapter Forty-Seven: A Smile Worth Something

Arkain appeared before Syn.

Syn

Where is Cameron?

Arkain pulled himself together, dizzy from the teleporting. Syn stood by Arkain who was sitting on the floor.

Syn

I asked you a question.

Arkain looked up.

Arkain

He’s back at my house with Iris.

Syn called for Pathion. Pathion appeared within ten seconds.

Pathion

You rang?

Syn

Yes.

He turned to Pathion.

Syn

You must find Cameron. Go to Tusa and have him track him down.

Pathion

Alrighty.

Pathion disappeared.

Arkain

Will you get there in time?

Syn smiled a big smile at Arkain.

Syn

What makes you think little Cameron can’t handle himself?

He walked away from Arkain laughing.

Pathion appeared before Darby, and Tusa.

Darby

Hello, Pathion.

Pathion

Urgent news. Tusa, you still have Cameron’s scent?

Tusa

How could I ever forget it?

He licked his lips.

Tusa

He smelled so good. I wanted to eat him, but of course I can’t.

He looked down.

Pathion

We have to find him.

Tusa

I’ve already have.

He smiled.

Pathion

Let’s go.

Ilias

What are you doing?

Gemma looked back into the mirror.

Gemma

My hair, before bed.

Ilias

Today has passed by so fast.

Gemma

You can say that again. It’s a good thing though.

She continued to brush her hair.

Ilias

Are you okay?

Gemma smiled at him through the mirror.

Gemma

Why wouldn’t I be?

Ilias

Just asking. You seem a little out of it.

Gemma

No, just tired.

Gemma put the brush down.

Gemma

I’ve had the most horrible, tragic, and thrilling month of my life.

Ilias smiled.

Ilias

Was it worth it?

Gemma

I don’t know yet. We’ll see.

She got up and kissed him.

Gemma

After the wedding, during the honeymoon.

Ilias laughed.

Ilias

You seem like a totally different person.

Gemma

No, I’m still me. I’m just getting comfortable with all this. You’ve really changed my life. Saved it, if we want to get technical.

Ilias

It was nothing.

He sat on the chair.

Gemma

It was something to me.

She sat on her bed.

Gemma

It means a lot to me.

She looked down at her hands.

Gemma

You said the only thing I had to do to repay you was give you my hand.

She grabbed his hand.

Gemma

I’ve given you it twice.

Ilias

I’d say you can call us even.

He chuckled.

Gemma

More like perfect.

She laughed.

Iris blocked her face with her arm. Cameron did the same.

Iris

What is this?

She yelled at him.

Cameron

Hell if I know!

The light disappeared. Cameron could not believe his eyes.

Cameron

What are you doing here?

Iris saw in front of Cameron stood a small white thing.

Fallen

I thought it was time I stepped in.

Cameron stood up.

Fallen

I’m sure you could have handled yourself, but everyone has their slip ups.

Iris

Is that who I think it is?

She was now walking forward.

Iris

Oh yes, I think it is.

Fallen

Lovely to meet you, Princess Iris.

Iris stood and curtseyed.

Iris

Always a pleasure to meet someone as powerful as you are.

She stood up straight.

Iris

You are number three on our list of powerful adversaries.

Fallen licked his paw.

Fallen

Number 3? Oh dear, I thought for sure I’d be number two. One is a stretch, but two, I can imagine.

Iris

I see the rumors are true. Your indifferent attitude suits you well.

Fallen licked his other pawn.

Fallen

I’m bored.

Iris almost laughed.

Fallen

Here’s the deal, and I hope you like it.

He stopped licking his pawn.

Fallen

I’ll trade you something for Cameron’s life.

Iris

What makes you think I’m in the trading mood?

Fallen stood up and walked forward.

Fallen

Because I’m trading your life for his.

Iris got serious.

Iris

You think it would be that simple?

Fallen

I do. I’m number three for a reason. Although, I can show you why I should be number two, if you’d like.

Iris

I’m not afraid of you, Fox. The list we were given is only to avoid battle. What makes you think I care to avoid this?

Iris moved her arm up.

Iris

If it’s a battle you want, it’s one you shall get.

A hand appeared and grabbed Iris’ arm. She looked up at the person responsible.

Pathion

I’ll answer your question, if you’d like.

Pathion lifted her off the ground. Iris set her foot on his chest and pushed off to safety.

Pathion

Hey, I was being a nice teacher.

Iris barely moved in time to dodge Tusa’s giant arms.

Tusa

Aw man!

Iris landed now in between everyone.

Fallen

Well look at that, my friends have arrived.

Pathion walked over to Fallen with his hands in his pockets.

Pathion

You know, I had a feeling you’d be here.

Darby landed next to Pathion.

Darby

Her barrier has been reduced to nothing.

Iris stared down Darby. She could not believe her ears.

Pathion

Good. Now we can all get out of here.

Iris

What makes you think you’re leaving?

Pathion didn’t turn to face her.

Pathion

So Fallen, why don’t we go have some tea? Might as well get a bite to eat while we’re at it.

Fallen jumped into Pathion’s arms. Cameron stood up.

Fallen

I’d love too.

Tusa

Can I eat her first?

Iris looked over at Tusa.

Iris

Eat me?

Iris thought about what this might mean. Pathion turned to Iris.

Pathion

Figured it out yet?

It hit Iris.

Pathion

Yeah, that’s right.

Fallen hopped onto his right shoulder.

Pathion

The Syn clan is back.

Iris’ eyes grew in horror.

Iris

This can’t be.

Pathion

You better start believing it, baby.

He laughed.

Pathion

Unfortunately for you guys, we’re on the opposite side this time.

Iris

Why have you joined their ranks?

Pathion

Well, we were on the wrong side of the tracks.

Pathion, Darby, and Cameron walked up to Tusa.

Pathion

But we didn’t know until your father and Akasha turned their backs on us.

Iris

They did no such thing.

Pathion

So you say. But whatever Syn says, goes.

Iris put her hands together.

Iris

You won’t be leaving.

Darby

Your barrier will not work, child.

Fallen

Iris, we just came for Cameron. There is no reason to get yourself killed over this.

Iris

I will fight you, now.

Pathion laughed and then got serious.

Pathion

Hey, shut the fuck up already.

Darby and Tusa disappeared.

Pathion

We’re letting you walk away with your life. Show some respect and get the hell out of here.

Iris

Fools, I don’t need any favors from the likes of you.

Pathion waved his hand at her.

Pathion

Enough already, we don’t want to hear it.

Fallen

Goodbye, Iris. Let your father know just what he’s up against.

Cameron

Next time we’ll fight for real.

Pathion

See you soon!

They disappeared.

Iris

Bastards.

Iris disappeared leaving all the destruction between her and Cameron behind.

Arkain

You could have gotten yourself killed!

Arkain yelled at Cameron when he saw him.

Cameron

Calm down, mom. Iris couldn’t have killed me. She doesn’t have the heart.

Pathion sat down at Syn’s feet. Darby and Tusa sat down in the sand as well.

Syn

Let us just rejoice in the fact that we’re all together again.

Fallen

I concur.

Fallen jumped off of Pathion’s shoulder onto the sand.

Fallen

We all have our lives and that is enough for now.

Cameron

What’s the plan?

Fallen

Plan? Well for now, we all sleep.

Pathion

I’ll keep watch for the night.

Syn

As will I.

Fallen

Good. The rest of you should rest.

Vesper, Velis, and Malic appeared.

Vesper

Master, are you sure you wouldn’t rather relax?

Syn

I will be fine, my dear. My job is simply keeping my eyes open. I can do that better than anyone else.

Arkain

Well, you got the job. Congratulations.

Syn looked over to Arkain.

Syn

As asked by Fallen, tomorrow we train you. Let us hope by then your smart remarks are all dried up.

He turned and hit Pathion to get up.

Syn

It would be wise to get as much rest as you can, Arkain.

Arkain looked over at Fallen.

Arkain

Thanks for signing me up for training.

Fallen

You’re welcome.

Syn and Pathion disappeared.

Velis

Well, I should be getting to bed.

Malic

Yeah, me too.

Cameron walked over to Velis.

Cameron

I’ll come with.

They disappeared.

Vesper

Let’s go, boys.

They disappeared as well. All that remained was Arkain and Fallen.

Akasha

Where have you been?

Iris walked past Akasha.

Iris

I went for a walk.

Akasha

Do not lie to me.

Ximendos

Enough.

Ximendos appeared in the hallway.

Ximendos

Go to the room Akasha.

Akasha

But-

Ximendos raised his hand.

Ximendos

I will be there shortly.

Akasha walked away.

Ximendos

Where were you?

Iris

I went to try and deal with brothers problems.

Ximendos put his hands on both her shoulders.

Ximendos

I didn’t mean now. I meant in the future, my child. You have to rest until the rapture.

Iris

I will father. I have a lot to think about now. We'll have a meeting tomorrow.

Ximendos kissed her on the forehead.

Ximendos

Run along, Iris.

Emmylou helped her brother into the backseat with Conor.

Conor

I got him.

Conor grabbed the seat belt so Emmylou could go up front.

Emmylou

Thanks.

She said getting into the car. Suri was already in reading to go.

Conor

Remind me why we have to drive at night again.

Suri

Less people on the road.

Conor shrugged.

Conor

I guess that makes sense.

Emmylou drove for hours while they all discussed movies Suri never got to see.

Suri

Well I’m sorry I only got to see the movies Amros gave me.

Conor

You had such a sheltered life.

He laughed.

Suri

Oh shut up.

Emmylou

It’s okay; we can watch all kinds of movies you missed when this is all over.

Suri

If it ever ends.

Conor

Seems like a big if.

Emmylou

I guess I’m the optimist here.

Conor

Shut up. Last night you were a total Debbie Downer.

Suri stared out the window very far away.

Emmylou

Oh excuse me for having second thoughts. You know Conor, you’d come off as a lot smarter if you thought twice once in your life.

He pushed her shoulder.

Conor

Mean!

Ian laughed.

Conor

Don’t you laugh at the things she says.

Ian

She’s funny.

Conor

Funny looking.

He crossed his arms and sat back.

Ian

I’m funny looking too.

Ian laughed in his seat.

Conor

That scares me.

He looked out the window.

Akasha

One more full day and the time will have come.

Ximendos took his shirt off.

Ximendos

Yes, and we shall have our paradise.

Akasha

That we will.

She lied down under the covers.

Akasha

I have something to ask you, though.

Ximendos sat on the bed.

Ximendos

I am listening.

Akasha

In this new world, can we have another child?

Ximendos lied next to her and put his arms around her.

Ximendos

In the next world, you can have anything you’d like.

She smiled. He smiled.

Akasha

Finally, a smile worth something.

Ximendos kissed her.

Ximendos

It’s not worth as much as you are.

Akasha closed her eyes.

Akasha

I hope I always am worth whatever price you’ve put on me.

Ximendos laughed.

Ximendos

You’re the diamond that never loses value.

He closed his eyes and the lights turned off.

Hayden stood outside of the base in the night.

Hayden

You can come out, young one.

Nicholas came around the wall.

Nicholas

I’m sorry, I just couldn’t sleep.

Hayden smiled.

Hayden

You are welcome to stay, if you’d like.

Nicholas

I’d very much like that.

Nicholas sat down at Hayden’s feet.

Hayden

Tired?

Nicholas

Yeah. I’ve had a lot on my mind.

Hayden looked down.

Hayden

I’d be baffled if you didn’t.

Nicholas yawned.

Nicholas

It would be nice if this was all over. I’d be able to get back to my work. You know, keeping our nation safe.

Hayden

Is that what you did?

Nicholas

Yes. I managed to keep peace between humans.

Hayden

Is that what you called it?

Nicholas

Yes. The method of doing so wasn’t to my liking, but it worked. We found peace.

Hayden crossed his arms.

Hayden

A world paralyzed by fear is not in peace. A world that strives to be equal and understand each other, that is a world in peace.

Nicholas looked down at the floor.

Nicholas

What could we do? There was no other way. Humans don’t want to understand each other. Sure, on a small scale, but not entirely. It’s always been war, hate, division, and very little love.

Hayden

I know your kinds history. I know just what you all are.

Nicholas

But, even with all the evil we’ve done and how indifferent we’ve become, it was still something.

He looked up at Hayden.

Nicholas

There are very evil people in the world. But there are also very good ones. They just didn’t have enough time to shine through.

Hayden

It’s too late now, anyways. Ximendos has put this world in slow motion and it’s about to explode into a new one. There isn’t much humans can do.

Nicholas

What about you?

Hayden

We cannot do much either. As uncomfortable as it sounds, it is going to happen.

Nicholas frowned.

Hayden

The thing that matters though, is what we do with what is given to us. Ximendos’ new world will not be the end of us. You will see, young Nicholas.

Hayden walked towards the entrance.

Hayden

Mr. Romberg, the new world can be one where we don’t have to wait for those good ones to shine. No, they will be shining already. Like I said though, it can be. In retrospect, it just might be even better than the world you knew. We shall wait and see.

Nicholas

That’s all we can ever do.

Hayden went inside and left Nicholas outside with the moon.

Arkain

So what side are you on?

Fallen

Both.

Fallen rolled onto his side.

Fallen

If you can understand that.

Arkain

I guess. It’s a bit two faced, if you ask me.

Fallen

Well, I didn’t. But you say two faced as if it’s a bad thing.

Fallen laughed.

Fallen

One face to keep and eye on you and Cameron.

He rolled over keeping his back towards Arkain.

Fallen

The other to watch the rest of the world. It all works out well. I even made the Amros think the Syn clan has returned to Ximendos so he’d keep the humans he’s with indoors. Brilliant, if you ask me.

Arkain

I didn’t.

Fallen

Well that’s why I said if you ask me. Either way, I don’t care.

Arkain

None of this makes sense.

Fallen

Should it Arkain?

Arkain

It would be nice.

Fallen

I’m sure it would. Except that’s not how things work. Life doesn’t move wondering if things are nice with you or if you can make sense of it. No, life just happens.

Arkain

Thanks for the lesson.

Fallen

Don’t be a smart-ass, Arkain. Keep your head up.

He curled up on the floor.

Fallen

You’re on the right team. You have nothing to worry about.

He lied down next to Fallen.

Arkain

I guess. I just wish I was more in control.

Fallen

It’s okay to not be, at times. Just leave the driving to me.

Arkain

I trust you, Fallen.

Fallen

I certainly hope so. I brought you in this world with Amros; I will make sure you never leave it.

Arkain

Thanks. By the way, you’re a fox.

Fallen

Thanks Arkain.

Arkain laughed and then fell asleep.