CHAPTER 27: The Space Race
"How far are we from our next stop?"
"About one twelve hours Yami,"
"Very well. If our long distance scanners are correct, we will be close to finding Lynette soon,"
The crew of the Nirvana Phoenix was making its way through the deepness of space. Their track was steady yet independent of Lynette's. Her journey was to find the Animus Blade of Abyss. The path of the Nirvana Phoenix was for the Animus Blade of Paradise. Both believed that neither blade was in the same place, but soon realized that their paths crossing by each other was an inevitability. As they raced to their destination, they found the other nearby. The first was the Nirvana's discovery of the remains of planet Altelia. The next was Lynette, spending too much time on planet Lunatte. The Nirvana Phoenix was closing in unintentionally. Lynette chose to leave and continue on elsewhere.
Once again Lynette and the Rosencraft found each other. The Nirvana Phoenix was chasing Lynette when the two ships entered an unfamiliar and highly avoided area of space. The area was known for strange happenings for a very long time. Ships have entered this area and some have never returned. Those that have exited the area, found themselves drifting with their crew missing, or returning completely insane.
"Yami, Lynette's entering the Death Zone. Do we follow her?"
"Sure thing Lafiel! I don't believe those stories so there is no reason for us not to give chase," Noa confidently recommended.
"Being second commander, I think you should reconsider that idea Yami. This could be dangerous. It might be better to go around and wait to see if she makes it out," Lafiel declared.
"Too risky. Although that plan in of itself isn't bad, it may be difficult to pick her up as her path will be much more direct than ours. And if she makes a Hyperion jump, we will definitely lose her. I say we follow her,"
"Your decision Yami? Lafiel's plan or Rini's?" Sisi stated.
Before he had a chance to make that decision, a force began pulling their ship toward the area. They activated the reverse thrusters but the system was overridden and shut down.
"We've got trouble. All the ship's systems are going crazy. If whatever is pulling us in wasn't under control, we would be spinning through space right now,"
"What's causing this, Noa?"
"I don't know Sisi. My guess is that it is..."
The ship came to a sudden stop. The engines and all systems had completely shut down. For a few moments everything was silent. A loud voice echoed around them now without a visible source.
"This area is the gateway to the legendary sword. I have been entrusted by a great force, with the duty of protecting that oh so dreamt of sword," The sarcastic voice paused for a moment then continued its banter. "I never thought this possible, but occupants of the both of these vessels have in them blood of the Great One. And what is this? Both have guardian beasts? Interesting, very interesting indeed. The Great One never would have ever dreamed that among this group that possess the Great One's blood, would be a King, a Queen and a court that would really possibly wield the legendary sword. Can it really be possible? How do I know that these are not just clever tricksters like myself? How do I know that these here kings and queens and members of the court are not truly just jesters? Wait, I am getting ahead of myself. I have no business challenging those who could possibly be the descendants of the Great One. Let this test answer,"
"Anzu, what on Earth is going on?" Tea asked in a whisper, worried if the source of this voice had any way of hearing them.
"I wish I knew, Tea," Anzu lightly chuckled, frankly stunned by the situation and the joviality of the voice that was apparently responsible.
"Travelers aboard these two ships, open your minds and ears to me. This is the pathway to the Blade of Legends. Thou hast tread this far in search of it, but the test will now begin. Pass this test and the road forward will be opened for thee. Before that road you will be versed in the story of the Blade. Fail the Great One's test and your souls will fall to the Abyss. Kind of ironic, huh!?" the voice started out with an overly dramatic and classical tone, broken by ending with the dull barb.
"What are your orders Ms. Lynette?" one of the Hawks manning Lynette's ship questioned.
"As soon as engines are operational, begin scan and slow forward thrust," she dully replied.
"The test will begin now," the voice continued. "For your sake, I hope you prove worthy. Being your ancestor is the Great One, and that you all are the first to attempt this endeavor from that lineage, this should prove very, very interesting. It should be fun to watch your endeavors,"
There was a bright flash of light as the accumulated group passed out under the force of an unseen being. The Rosencraft all awoke at around the same time. Their ship was fine. All systems were functioning normally with the exception of the scanners, which were under very powerful jamming. Though the engines were functioning, they were off. Outside, the ship was guarded by attack ships on all sides. The communication channels were flaring loudly before Yami could answer.
"This is the Patrol Guard Delta. This is your second and final warning. If you do not respond immediately you will be destroyed. Under the authorization of his royal highness, High Priest Yami by the mandate of the King of Nemesis, the Pharaoh Yugi, you have ten Nemesis seconds to respond or full force will be used."
"There will be no need for that. We would have responded sooner but we have had a little trouble," The visual display was running as well and Lafiel, as well as the rest of the Rosencraft, had an image on the screen of the officer that was talking to them. He froze momentarily and began stammering when he spoke again.
"Y... Y... Your Majesties! My very, utmost, greatest apologies for disrupting you all my lords. Please forgive my foolish actions my ladies and lords. It was just that your ship was not registered and so I had not realized it to be one of your ever-magnificent fleet. Though it is obvious to me now that only the likes of you could hold such a marvelous ship…"
"Any clue what this guy is talking about Yami?"
"No idea Kenshin. Are the scanners still jammed?"
"Yes they are. I don't know where we are," Noa answered.
"Wait a second. Didn't that guy say something about Nemesis?" Tea noted.
"Tea's right. Is it possible we drifted that far through space?"
"I doubt it Yugi. But who knows how long we were unconscious," Rini suggested. The Lucifer Hawk that was addressing them had been talking the entire time trying to explain himself and compliment as much as he could. The Rosencraft had been ignoring him up until now.
"My lords and ladies, it would be an unexplainable honor to provide for you an escort back to your palace,"
"Your call Yami," Sisi deferred.
"I think we should go. Whatever the situation is around here, answers won't come out here," Yami determined. "Officer, your apology and offer are accepted,"
The Patrol Guard led a comparatively slower procession to that the Nirvana Phoenix was accustomed to in their pursuit of Lynette. It was a great shock when they finally made their approach and realized their destination was in fact Nemesis. With all their encounters with Hawks from Nemesis and all they have done with Nemesis, this was the first visit to the planet for all of them, save Rini, Yami, and Anzu. It was an unexpected pleasure for them to see what was the birthplace of their ancestors in at least half of their lineage.
As they made their descent through the planet's atmosphere and to the surface, they were silent and starry-eyed as they looked upon a planet they had never seen but was as much their home as was the Shadow Realm. The planet was beautiful but a strange sense of darkness seemed to engulf it. It wasn't like a shadow, but more like a night sky without the stars or the moon. No light or anything – just darkness.
They touched down only a couple miles from an immense castle. As far as large palaces go, this one downgraded them to mere cottages in the back-ends of a small forest.
"Ooh... I can't wait to see inside!"
"You should calm down Runa, that you should," Kenshin commented.
"Yugi, do you think we have the same room?" Yugi shrank away from the question as Rini leaned closer to him.
"Don't start that Rini, you know Yugi and I have the same room," Lafiel jeered.
"The size of that palace, I'm sure everyone can have their own floor, much less their own room." Noa added.
They exited the ship and were immediately greeted with a full-scale military escort. The pomp and circumstance was unheard of even for Runa, Yami, Anzu and Rini who were used to warm welcomes. To further the humbling of the extravagance was the knowledge that even more was possible as countless times, while in their hover car limousine, they were apologized to for not having the full ceremony in place.
They carved through a large city. It was an average looking city, clean and neat enough, but it resembled a mud hole standing in the shadow of the mighty palace, and lacking relative to the technology apparently available. The Hawk population seemed apprehensive as the caravan progressed through the streets. The procession arrived carrying the Rosencraft only a few steps from the entrance. There, they were greeted by a class one Hawk, which smiled at them very nervously.
"Please, please, please forgive me your majesties. You have returned earlier than you said. Not that we should have any problems with that. Please, please accept our greatest apologies. It will never happen again. I beg that you spare my life!" The Hawk began to sob like a terrified child as he fell to his knees and bowed his head.
"Calm down, calm down, we're not going to hurt you. Why would we take your life over such a trivial matter?" Anzu assured, almost afraid the man would have a heart attack.
"Thou art most gracious Lady Anzu. Please allow me to escort you to your chambers," The Hawk rose to its feet sniffling. He entered the palace and walked down the gilded halls with "Their Majesties" following behind. They came to a split in the hall and went to the right.
"Can you explain what is going on . . . what's your name?"
"Master Noa, your good humor is a pleasure. I am of course Renold. I am not sure how I would answer your other question,"
"Then maybe I can rephrase it. When is it we became rulers of Nemesis?"
"Ha! Even more humor from our Lord Noa! You eleven have dominion not only over Nemesis but also over the entire universe. It has been so for longer than anyone can remember. Ah . . . here we are! We have just concluded the requests you made. We sincerely hope it serves to your liking very well your majesties,"
Renold threw open the doors onto a great room lit by dozens of candles. Upon the farthest wall rested three levels of thrones; two at the top, four below that and five at the bottom level. The thrones were of gold with red velvet cushions for the seats and backs. Above the thrones was a balcony that led to two separate doors leading to who knows where. The balcony itself provided as much of an imposing stage as the thrones. On the floor level on either side of the thrones was yet another set of doors. The floor was very smooth and reflected like a mirror. A chandelier looked down on the center of the room with over a hundred candles. Only seven rows of benches made of highly polished wood rested in front of the thrones on top of a beautiful rug. The left and right walls held tall windows covered over with deep red drapes.
They went along inspecting and admiring the room. There came a loud explosion from somewhere outside the palace. It was followed by a series of additional explosions. The Rosencraft turned to the entrance. The doors flew wide open and an abundance of energy swept over the room. It was enough to send Phawkes from the floor back to Tea's head. Smoke poured in from the hallway. The continuing energy blew the smoke through the room away from the door. A familiar voice came through the noise of the flames in the hall. The first to appear through the smoke stood about five feet, seven inches tall. On his left arm was a lady his same height. They were accompanied by nine others walking close behind. They moved slowly and carefree, almost as though they had no knowledge they just walked right through a large explosion, not that it was anywhere near enough to phase the likes of them anyway. They caused the explosion, so they would not be stupid enough to take themselves out at the same time. They walked directly past Renold and to their thrones.
"Renold! I would like to know why our escort never showed up, and why when trying to enter my own castle, my own guards opened fire on myself, my queen and the lords and ladies of my court - you know I hate killing my own guards, because I then have to replace those guards. I hate that!"
"My Pharaoh, it seems that Renold has been entertaining guests who enjoy masquerading as us. Moreover, I suspect that they more enjoy death for daring such an awful transgression,"
"You are correct my queen. Thus I leave you to be judge, jury, and if need be, executioner, of these unwelcome guests and our poor, foolish friend Renold,"
"Am I crazy or are we looking at clones of ourselves?"
"I would say that is a safe guess Rini. They are a bit defective though. It seems that they intend to try and kill us and Renold here,"
"I believe you are correct Kenshin. Do you believe that Lynette is behind this?"
"No. For some reason or another, Sisi, I don't feel that this particular incident is Lynette's doing," As Kenshin finished his statement, the Queen sent a massive energy blast with nothing more than a wave of her hand. Kenshin neutralized the shot by drawing his sword.
"It would seem, ladies and gentleman, that we have a challenge in these intruders. Very well. I suppose it shall be an entertaining event. Yami, I leave you in charge here. Lafiel and I will retire to our chambers now. I hope that you all will have a bit of fun. For providing us an entertaining show, I will allow you to live Renold. Otherwise, my queen and I wish you a good evening,"
"As you wish Yugi. We send our gratitude to you and your queen." With that, Yugi and Lafiel of this new Rosencraft vanished to the balcony and walked out of the chambers through one of the doors. Renold had already scurried away to the entrance of the room and out the door.
"As stated by the Pharaoh Yugi, you eleven, no doubt sent here by Lynette, are to be destroyed. So is the command of the master of this universe and all others. Now, perish!"
The nine remaining in the thrones rose to ready for attack. The true Rosencraft nonchalantly gathered together to talk.
"Is this a joke? What's going on around her?"
"Of course this is a joke, Lafiel. Everyone knows that Yugi would choose me as his queen,"
"This is not the time, Runa," Kenshin began. "Whatever the situation is here, we have eleven confused individuals that want to attack us, that we do. How do we respond?"
"We try and reason with them. If need be, we defend ourselves. Confused or not, something strange is going on here. Our enemy over there is not just a group of some ordinary jokers playing a game. They each seem to definitely have some power. I cannot sense their full power levels but I know my own power and that imitation Anzu is pretty close,"
"I agree with Anzu. I say we try and get some answers," Yami stated.
They quickly went off to the defensive. The other Rosencraft had enough waiting and went forth with a highly aggressive attack. Tea deployed an energy shield to buffet the first barrage of energy attacks. Phawkes screeched angrily towards the oncoming assault.
"Hold on just a moment. I don't know what is happening here, but this attack is not necessary. We have no intentions of causing harm," Yugi tried to reason.
"You who imitate our great Pharaoh dare to speak of meaning no harm? That is an insult to his majesty. You all will die for it,"
"Yugi is not imitating anyone. Besides, he is not the Pharaoh. Yami is the Pharaoh. He has been the Pharaoh since after the Great War between Earth and Nemesis. Even in his absence during the attack of Kiram and Hiei, he has continued his rule as Pharaoh. My Yugi will be the Pharaoh one day but not yet. Maybe if we sit down and talk for a moment, we can straighten everything out," Rini added, going to Yugi's aide to rebuff the attack from this other Tea.
"Maybe it is better that you cease to talk because all you seem to be doing is increasing the amount of evidence against you. To claim the Pharaoh as yours, you imitation of Rini, is treason and outrageous. The Empress will be happy to have your head for that comment. Addition of the attempt to usurp the throne of Yugi after Yami had already given the honor of that position after wedding me, only makes it even worse for you."
"Alright this is weird. Lafiel is married to Yugi and Tea is married to Yami? This is just too much," Runa began to laugh. The other Runa frowned at this outburst.
"Enough senseless jabber, I was ordered by the Pharaoh Yugi and the Empress Lafiel to destroy you eleven imposters. Rosencruez, you are ordered to destroy your counterpart. Do not allow them to live – that is their punishment for disrespecting the honor and sanctity of this kingdom,"
"This wouldn't be necessary if you all would just listen for a moment. Jeez you people are so intolerant," Noa's comment went unheard. The roar of a dozen blasts made it impossible to hear anything else at all. Yami, Anzu, Rini, Noa, Runa, Sisi, May, Noa and Tea all scattered to different directions with their doubles close behind them. Laifel and Yugi could do nothing more than look on as spectators while the battle escalated. The fury of eighteen of the most powerful beings to ever live rang loud throughout the chamber echoing with ferocious intensity. Phawkes took flight and perched itself on the balcony. No matter how much they tried to follow, it was impossible for Yugi and Lafiel to keep tracks as just onlookers. As the battle continued, the pace quickened. The room that was said to have been masterfully crafted through extensive and delicate planning and work in a time frame of somewhere between three and four months, was being torn apart in a time frame of three to four minutes. It was a battle going nowhere fast. It was by this time that the Pharaoh Yami ended the fight.
"This is getting us nowhere. We need to go elsewhere for the answers we seek,"
"What makes you think that we are going to allow you to leave just like that?"
"What makes you think you have a choice in our decision?"
Phawkes soared from the balcony to Tea. The Rosencraft gathered together and left the chamber via teleportation. The Rosencruez showed some degree of surprise at the abrupt departure. The chamber lay like an unfinished construction project from the entry up to halfway to the thrones. It was easy to see that a battle of fierce power took place not a minute ago. Some of the rubble was still smoldering with the heat from the powerful energy blasts. Yami turned and walked to the throne. The rest of the Rosencruez followed. Noa threw his hands up behind his head in exasperation.
"I give up, anyone have a clue why what just happened, happened?"
"I would like to know that as well. That person, that Runa imitation, was a highly unfavorable creature,"
"Well Runa, I must say that she did indeed do an acceptable job in her appearance as well as her mimicry of the attacks you love to use so much,"
"You're not trying to get me angry, are you big brother?"
"I would never dream of such a thing my dear little sister, indeed I wouldn't,"
"Renold, you sniveling little coward, get in here!" Renold scrambled back through the broken doors of the chamber and bowed before Yami.
"Yes my liege. I am here to serve you,"
"You are lucky to have been given your life by the Queen and the Pharaoh. You have one week to restore this room the state it was in before those intruders entered our domain. Your job right now is to see to it that the ship that the intruders were on is locked up. Anyone trying to resist or claim that ship is to be apprehended and his or her capture brought to our attention. Have the Patrol Guard units Aegis through Raven begin a galactic sweep for those eleven imposters. I want the Patrol Guard commander to report before me immediately,"
"At once your highness," Renold was off again to complete his assigned task.
"Yami, why send out the Patrol Guard? Are you actually worried about this?"
"I think we all are, May. You all know as well as I do that those were no mere copies. Their energy levels were much too close to ours. Lynette does not have the kind of power needed to create duplicates that powerful and if she does, that is even more reason to find those things and stop them now. I also think that it is time to put an end to Lynette. She has been a thorn in our side for far too long. I also believe they need to pay for insulting us as they did,"
"I agree that Lynette needs to be dealt with, but I do not think that she is involved in this the way we think. Lynette may be from our family bloodline but she is pathetic compared to us. Those eleven are much too powerful to be manipulated by such a lowly creature as Lynette. They are from somewhere else. Though it is somewhat flattering that they chose to mimic our image as powerful beings, they must be destroyed before they become much stronger. I must say that my counterpart was a bit too powerful for my liking. I suppose we could always try to capture them and turn them into out personal slaves,"
"I think we have enough of those, Rini. I also don't like the idea of the subjects seeing two identical Pharaoh's,"
"Why don't we leave this to the ones whose decision it is to make. The Pharaoh and the Queen should be the one's to make the final decision, not us," It was in the wake of that statement that Yugi and Lafiel re-emerged from the doors.
"I must say, from the looks of things, you all did have quite the battle. But from what I have heard, the battle is not over with as of yet. Explain what has happened,"
"Yes Yugi. It would seem that our opponent is very powerful, more powerful than Lynette. They were disgraceful in their attempt to claim that you and your Queen as not the legitimate rulers of the universe. The imitation of Rini was audacious enough to claim that you were to marry her. They did, however, flee in our battle through teleportation. The Patrol Guard commander is on his way over here and the ship they used to get here is being locked up. We believe that these intruders should be hunted down and brought to us for execution immediately. We also feel that Lynette should be taken care of at the same time. I have ordered that ships in units Aegis through Raven be put on standby for galactic sweep. We of course await the approval of you and your Queen," Yami reported.
"I see. Very well, I have no problems with that. Do you have any objections my dear?"
"None, Yugi, as long as I have the head of that Rini myself, I will be happy. I will not stand for the way she tried to insult me," The Patrol Guard commander entered at that moment. He was a class A Hawk. His name was Sith. A powerful Hawk when compared to all others except the royal leaders in the number of eleven. He was known for his swift and decisive battles. But his second commander was better known for her ruthless and overpowering brute force attacks. This has helped to gain her, Commander O-Ren Ishii Leang, favoritism among the Rosencruez. She was a human with higher than normal magical powers, similar to what Teana's were when Yamu first met her. She entered directly behind Commander Sith. They both bowed and then saluted Yugi once they reached a reasonable distance in front of him.
"Your majesty, I believe you have summoned me here. I await your every command,"
"Commander Sith, you have done very well under me. You and Commander O-Ren have completed every task we have presented to you with great accuracy. Surrounding my court are so many unreliable individuals that I often cannot see those that actually take the time to avoid making me upset. You have another mission.
"Today, Renold stupidly allowed individuals parading as us to enter this castle and this chamber. They managed to escape once we arrived here. We have decided it is time to get rid of them and our long time nuisance Lynette as well. Your job is to find them and destroy them as soon as possible with the exception of Rini. My lady Lafiel has requested that Rini be captured so that she may kill her herself,"
"Your majesties, I would be honored to take on this mission as you have so directed. We will complete your decree in a timely manner to suit your wishes. I will leave at once to begin the operations,"
"Very good Commander O-Ren. Your success will be commended," She left the chamber quickly and with apparent joy. Commander Sith began to explain the projections for completion of the assignment when a series of screams rang through the partially ruined hall. Next came Lynette, the Lynette from the Rosencraft's woes, walking in through the chamber entrance.
"Hello there, Yugi! Are you happy to see me?"
"Lynette. It is very bold of you to come here to us in such an open manner. Commander Sith, kill her."
"Oh please," Lynette raised her finger to the Commander. She waved her finger from side to side, the Lucifer Hawk thrown about like a child's toy. Lynette closed her hand and Sith exploded. "Did you really think that such a pathetic specimen could dream of giving me a scratch?"
"While that was an entertaining display, I must say that I have never seen you so violent and unmerciful. At any rate, I suppose you are here for the usual request – us to surrender our control on the universe, relinquish all our powers and accept banishment to the outer reaches of the depths of space… Do not waste our time."
"Yugi, please tell Lafiel to keep her comments to herself, I was speaking to you and no one else,"
"You are trying my patience you disgusting excuse for a Lucifer Hawk. You're lucky I don't kill you right now!" Lafiel screeched.
"As I was saying, Yugi, I am not the Lynette that you think I am. I came here to warn you. They are a very powerful group and are likely planning on making you fall – they have one of those good-guy things going. My assumption is that they will soon meet with my not so favorable, otherworldly twin in the same fashion that they met with you,"
"And why should we believe you?"
"First off, why are we allowing you to live?"
"I was not speaking to either you Yami or you Noa. Now, Yugi, if you make me your Queen, I will gladly assist you. If not, I'd like to stay and watch what happens,"
"In case you have forgotten, I am the Queen of all outer space. You have the nerve to ask my husband to marry you? You must be crazy to ever consider such a thing!" Lafiel barked.
"My Pharaoh, Lady Lafiel, allow me the honor of removing this long time annoyance once and for all."
"You have my permission Noa," Lafiel quickly approved.
"Thank you my queen. You have troubled us for the last time, Lynette. It is time for you to die,"
"You know, Yugi, you aren't as intelligent as the Yugi I know. I would hate to leave you one Hawk short for an upcoming battle, but I will if I have to,"
"Your discussion with the Pharaoh is over. You battle me now," Noa charged out an energy blast. Lynette sidestepped the attack easily. Noa moved forward with a barrage of energy blasts. Lynette floated backwards to avoid the attacks. She found her path stopped suddenly. With lightning quick speed, Noa got behind Lynette. His palm was flat against her back, ready for the final blow.
"It ends now," he declared with full confidence.
"I agree with you Noa, too bad for you," Lynette turned around and stuck her arm through Noa's heart. In a last desperate attack, he fired another blast at point blank range. It served no purpose. It had no effect at all. Lynette pulled her arm out of the sheath that was Noa's body. His body fell to the floor. A flower immediately blossomed from the hole in his chest. The Rosencruez were stunned to see Noa dead in such a brief moment. Lynette proceeded to lick her hands clean of the blood. She then pulled from the flower a large seed. She raised it to the candlelight and watched it for a moment. Noa's body meanwhile turned to a pile of sand.
"You know, this is only the third Animus Flower seed of Nebulous I have ever been able to obtain. You have to kill a Lucifer Hawk of a decent level to get a seed of Nebulous – this one should be especially good. I think I'll take a look around, see what you've done with my castle. I'll come back when my Yugi gets here. You look and sound like the Rosencraft, but you are not remotely like them. See ya!" She vanished, supposedly to go sight seeing.
"Pharaoh, should I go to find her?"
"No May. That won't be necessary. That individual has proven that she has no objection to killing, but has no concern with killing us – at least trying to. She appears convinced that she is here from someplace else. She is not the Lynette that we have been pursuing. If it is true, then we must expect our doubles from earlier today to return. I do want her activities monitored; I don't want some stranger to have that much freedom of movement in my castle. Once we are done with the imposters, we will destroy that Lynette as well. It is your honor alone, my Queen,"
"I will be delighted to, Yugi,"
"I thought you would be, Lafiel. I want this to be taken care of immediately. My queen and I do not wish to waste time dealing with this gross inconvenience,"
Meanwhile, the real Rosencraft found themselves on the other side of the planet. Had they known the planet well, they would have known that the now ruined building they stood before was what remained of Queen Relyna's palace. Once, it was a majestic symbol of peace on Nemesis. Now it was a pile of forgotten rubble. Although long abandoned, it held a special quality, a certain unique and lovely mysticism.
"Well that surely was a wild ride. What's next? A Shadow Duel I hope,"
"Actually Runa, that might not be a bad idea,"
"May might be right. If our enemy here is using Nemesis as a base, we should probably use our home,"
"If its still there, Sisi. With all that seems to be going on, you have to wonder if the Shadow Realm is still there,"
"Hopefully it is. Phawkes is getting hungry and, come to think of it, so am I,"
"We can't do anything else but try, Tea,"
"I don't think that you all will be going anywhere right now. As the second behind the Queen Lafiel, I'm afraid that you all are to be killed. The Rosencruez will not stand for your kind if insolence," It was Tea, of the Rosencruez.
"Our last name is Rosencraft, not Rosencruez,"
"We removed ourselves from that name a long time ago. We are the Rosencruez and you are dead – you ignorant masqueraders," She raised her hand with one finger pointed to the air. A shot of lightning screamed into the clouds. They became very dark and swirled around in a growing spiral. From the center of the vortex came a large, blue stone. It crashed to the planet destroying what little remained of the old palace. The air was filled with soil and debris from the impact. As the dust began to settle, there came a rumble and the sound of grinding stone. Through the cloud of dust came the ancient Saint Paladin of Chaos, Obelisk the Tormentor. The massive monster's eyes were blazing red. Tea Rosencruez floated next to the beast's head.
"That is not what I expected. Please tell me that isn't what I think it is,"
"I'm afraid that is exactly what you think it is Lafiel; that is the Saint Paladin of Chaos, Obelisk the Tormentor,"
"My, my, you have done your homework indeed. No one knows anything about this servant of ours. I would ask you how it is you discovered him, but as I am sure you already know, you won't be around long enough for it to matter,"
"I don't know what else to do but try it,"
"Try what? What are you planning to do Rini?"
"Well Runa, if she wants to turn this into a confrontation with a Saint Beast, then I will," Rini raised her hand to the sky similarly to the way Tea Rosencruez did. The Shadow Necklace glowed to life. The clouds, still present from Obelisk's summoning, were now energized with lightning. Slifer the Sky Dragon swerved down to Rini's side ready to battle. The powerful dragon stared at Obelisk and Obelisk stared back at Slifer.
"The scene here has become very tense. We tried to explain our presence when we were at the castle, but you would not listen. Being able to summon Obelisk the Tormentor means that you must have at least some knowledge of the Saint Beasts and therefore must know that a battle right now against the Saint Dragon of Osiris, Slifer the Sky Dragon would be a very long and daunting task. My suggestion is that we take the time right now to talk."
"Please Yami Rosencraft. The Rosencruez do not have time for your nonsense. We are beyond the point of talking. You know, a member of your little group was at our palace not more than five minutes ago. She was looking for Yugi. Too bad we have to kill her. She was able to get the best of Noa, although I can't say it wasn't his own fault. She and I could have gotten along great, but alas, the Pharaoh has ordered her death as well as yours. I am sure that Lynette is meeting hers as we speak. Your end is going to come now, even if this planet has to be torn apart to do it,"
"You're insane!"
"You aren't the first and probably won't be the last to say that to me,"
"We can't let her do this. If we fight, this planet could easily be destroyed under the force of these two Saint Beasts. If we don't fight, she might just level everything in sight,"
"Then allow me to assist," A stream of energy surged between the two sides preventing the possibility of either side attacking. The attack originated from a Blue Eyes Red Serpent Night Dragon. Beside the coiling dragon was Lynette. Her right hand was rested gently on the head of the dragon that was responsible for the attack.
"Nice to see you again, Tea. I didn't know that you all were having a falling out. I would allow you to continue tearing each other apart but if you are going to somehow manipulate one of my dragons, I can't ignore it. I must say that what I have heard is very hilarious. You guys are a riot. I don't mind if you destroy your own palace and kingdom, but I don't want you to use my Slifer to do it or for you to take this battle to any innocent beings,"
"What are you doing here Lynette. I was sure that the others would have destroyed you by now. Yugi and Lafiel will not be too happy to see you still here,"
"That is fine. They can't really hope to kill me when I have not been at the castle for a very long time, not since you all took it from my brother when you killed him,"
"So, you are not with these insubordinate jerks. That doesn't matter. You still have plenty of previous offenses that you must pay for. I will delight in killing you all here and now."
"Let's play a little game instead. How about you try and find us?" Lynette shot a pulse of energy through the air. When the light cleared, Tea was looking at nothing but the battle scarred land. Lynette Rosencruez, the Rosencraft, and the dragons, were gone. They went to a place that the Rosencraft knew, but the Rosencruez had no knowledge of. The Rosencraft had reached their destination, the mystifying Shadow Realm. To their delight, the Rosencraft found the Shadow Realm had not changed. The sights and sounds were just as they had been when they left. Lynette was bouncing around joyously with a lighthearted giggle. They were outside the castle in the courtyard. The dragons, Slifer and the Red Serpent Night Dragon, flew over the castle and into the Dragon's Lair.
"Did you see that look on Tea's face? I always have so much fun when I can ruin the Rosencruez's plans. Hello, my name is Lynette, nice to meet you. I hope you don't mind my interfering with whatever it was you all were doing, but if you enjoy dressing up like the Rosencruez to get under their skin, I'm a fan. I must say however, that I didn't really like you using my dragon, especially against them. They would only be happier if they could force the destruction of a planet. I also have a question as to how you bought out my dragon, Slifer, in the first place. You guys are pretty quiet. What's the matter? Why don't you guys take off those disguises?"
"Wow! You can really talk can't you?"
"That wasn't very nice,"
"Forgive Runa. She is understandably a little shocked,"
"Well, I guess so. Can you at least tell me your real names?"
"The thing is Lynette, my real name is Tea and we are who we look like. We are the Rosencraft, not the Rosencruez. We aren't from this world and we really don't know what is going on,"
"What a crazy thing to say. You really play your roles out to the hilt don't you? Oh, well. If you don't want to tell me who you really are, then you don't have to,"
"We aren't lying to you. We are here from a world almost exactly like this one, but everything is backwards. You are evil in our world and we have been trying to stop you from destroying the universe,"
"Really," Lynette stated sarcastically. "If nothing here is right, then that means that you guys are not really evil,"
"Yes,"
"And that you, Lafiel and Yugi, are not really the Queen and Pharaoh…"
"Not for sometime will Yugi be the Pharaoh,"
"Then no one will mind if I do this," Lynette walked up beside Yugi and kissed him. Runa, Rini, Tea, and Lafiel gawked horrifyingly at the act. The jaws of the rest dropped as they prepared themselves for what they were sure would be a very heated argument.
"WHAT ARE YOU DOING?"
"What, you said he wasn't married to Lafiel, so therefore he isn't taken,"
"Yes he is taken – by ME!"
"Forgive, Runa. She is a little confused. Yugi is to be married to me,"
"No, I believe that Runa and Rini are incorrect. Yugi will become Pharaoh with me be his side,"
"Who's to say that I won't claim the future Pharaoh for myself?"
"Get real Lynette! Just a moment ago, you didn't believe that really was Yugi!"
"So, you don't buy a diamond unless you know it's real first do you?"
"Before Yugi is torn limb from limb by these enraged women, shouldn't we come up with a plan of getting to our own world?"
"You're right, Noa. If you don't mind putting this little feud off for a while, it would be greatly appreciated if you ladies quit your bickering and get back to the matter at hand,"
"Fine! But I see Lynette even look the wrong way at Yugi I'm going to see to it that it never happens again," Lynette childishly stuck out her tongue at Rini. They walked the short distance to the castle. Yugi had an expression of a man on his way to be put to death before a firing squad as Lynette, Lafiel, Rini, and Runa walked on either side of him. Tea was gently stroking Phawkes' head as she walked about three paces behind Yugi. She could tell he was uncomfortable and sighed quietly for him.
The Shadow Realm had not changed at all – the apparent ruler was the exception. The low grass was a lush green. It rested still as a stone with no wind blowing now. The roar of the waterfall was soft and gentle. There was a sound that was almost certainly a Blue-Eyes White Dragon stirring below the castle. The town just outside the castle complex was alive with sound; nothing distinct but definitely the sound of happy people going about their usual business. There was not a single thing that seemed out of place save the fact that in this their home, the Rosencraft were being escorted into their castle by Lynette instead of them escorting her into eternal imprisonment in the Dark Spire.
Despite her obvious single upsetting action, Lynette proved to be just as Yami, Rini and Anzu remembered her, as she was before her mother was killed by Sephiroth. She seemed happy and carefree – not at all like the evil, vicious and heartless Queen of Destruction that they now had to stop. The Pharaoh and the Queens of the Shadow Realm often felt some responsibility for how Lynette had turned out. They had so much to deal with having lost their parents at the same time to the same man; they had lost touch with their early childhood friend and she turned to evil – the same way her brother had. That is what they felt from time to time, but they knew there was nothing they could really have done. Children less than ten thrust into the position of rulers of an entire planet and another dimension while having to develop their unique powers and still hold them secret from all of existence outside the Shadow Realm. It is a daunting task that cannot have any distractions. They had to face the same problems that Lynette faced but they just couldn't do anything to help her. For this, in part, they only wanted to lock her away, not kill her. As they walked along, Lynette dropped back so that she could hold on to Yugi. Four of the ladies frowned and two of the gentlemen could do nothing more than roll their eyes.
"So you guys really are from another world. What are you doing here?"
"We didn't come here on purpose, probably. We were on your trail, the you that is like the creatures you call the Rosencruez, while trying to find this legendary sword when we encountered a force. It told us that we would have to pass some sort of test in order to continue on and obtain the sword we were looking for. Next thing you know, we're being escorted to Nemesis like royalty and run into our own copies. By the way, do you mind letting go of Yugi's arm?" Lynette pretended to not hear Rini's last request.
"I suppose that makes some sort of sense. So what do you plan on doing?"
"Well, we don't really know how to get out of here. This place used to be our home and there is only one Shadow Realm. We also don't feel it is wise to leave this world with those individuals on Nemesis in control,"
"You mean that you plan to challenge them? That would be great! I have waited a long time to see the day when I could get some help in dethroning them," Lynette's voice went from that of the happy her to a much more serious tone.
"Can you tell us what has happened that the world is how it has become?"
"Sure Yugi. Can we talk in the Dragon's Lair? It is time for me to feed my young Hyozanryu," Lynette's smile returned and she took to the air. The others followed behind her into the Dragon's Lair. The sky was overcast as rain threatened. A gentle breeze swept over the lair when they touched down. A light rain began to fall as the clouds overhead darkened. The baby Hyozanryu was at the edge of the lake. Its diamond like skin shone a rainbow of colors. The dragon ran to Lynette; it was too young to fly yet. Sisi raised a force field around them as a shield from the rain that was beginning to pick up. Feeling a sense of nostalgia for her own young Hyozanryu Runa forgot, for the moment, her dislike towards Lynette just to get near the little one. She rubbed its crystallized scales giggling cheerfully as the dragon wriggled around. The dragon happily rubbed its smooth nose against Runa's hand.
"You like it?"
"Yes, very much. Kenshin and Yugi gave me one as an engagement present,"
"Yugi and Kenshin? Both of them? But..."
"Don't ask about it, just leave it alone or we'll be here debating it forever," May interjected before Lynette could finish. Lynette didn't press the subject. She materialized a bowl of food for the dragon and set both on the grass. Tea followed suit and brought forward food for Phawkes.
"So Lynette, what is the story with this reality?" Lynette bowed her head at first not saying a word. She was deep in her own thoughts for a moment, thoughts that were not as pleasant as one would care for taking a trip down memory lane. She raised her head once again to look into the rainy sky. She sighed and began her story.
"It began very, very, very long ago. There was one family that ruled Nemesis. That is the family my self and the group you look like, the Rosencruez, are from. After the king, Alexander Rosencraft, died, the planet erupted into civil war. Alexander had three children with his wife who had died shortly before he had. His children were too young to take the throne so the throne was to automatically revert to the closest relative of the king and queen until the children came of age to rule. The two families, however, that of Alexander and his wife Anastacia, became bitterly at ends over which family had the right to rule. Neither family had ever liked the other; not even the marriage of their children could quell their animosity. There were even rumors that Anastacia was murdered so that Alexander's family would be able to rule unopposed for eternity, but Anastacia's family learned the plot and had Alexander murdered as well. Of course you must know that even back then, killing not in battle was the worst crime one could commit and unspeakable when it came to the royal family so those notions had been dismissed.
"What happened next was nothing but a long and fierce war over the throne of Nemesis. Neither side was willing to compromise their desires. Anastacia and Alexander's children, Elizabeth, Roland and Genosa I, finally settled the issue. Their family had spent so much time fighting each other that they forgot that the three children were the true heirs to the throne. The children grew up and grew tired of being used as pawns in their bid for power. Because everyone still had the memory of the children constantly being used to justify the actions of the war, nothing could be done when they came out of the shadows, so to speak, and made their own resolution to the chaos. They divided the planet amongst themselves. Elizabeth and her husband Walter took one-third, Roland and his wife Jessikah took another third, Genosa I and his wife Jennifer took the final one third of the planet.
"That plan only served as a much purpose as a band-aid on a deep wound; it stopped some of the blood, but did nothing to heal the problem. In fact, is made things worse. Walter turned out to be just as greedy as anyone else and took steps to separate his part of the family from the others completely. They started experiments for creating an immortality elixir. While it did not work on them, it worked almost perfectly in transferring over to the birth of their children. If Walter and Elizabeth were evil, then there is no word that can describe the extent of the evil entrenched in their children Yamiyugi and Jun. When Jun turned twelve, her brother eleven, the two of them killed their parents. They then married each other and had three children, Yami, Rini and Anzu. The only flaw in Yamiyugi and Jun's immortality was the reliance on consuming human blood. Their children were immune to that set back. Because of that, their parents used their DNA to create more like them. My mother was an unwilling pawn in that endeavor. My brother Genosa III and I were the result. As you know, an immortal can still be killed by another that is as powerful as they are.
"Anzu and Rini created their fusion Anastasia and absorbed their mother. Yami absorbed his own father Yamiyugi and they thus became an impassible fortress of power that stands at the forefront of power in the Lucifer Hawk dynasty. Everyone that was turned into an immortal of similar power was made to join them. All others, like my brother and parents, were killed if they opposed. There is no one left that can be said to stand a chance against them. I have been doing what I can for a very long time. Even Yami and his sisters have been getting bored. Only several years ago, Yami just gave up his claim to the throne of the universe. He and his queen, his sister's fusion, appointed Yugi and his queen Lafiel to be rulers. Yami and his sisters are much more powerful than the rest, so although Yugi and Lafiel are in charge in name and in backing, Anzu, Rini and Yami can easily make any decree they wish. For fourteen thousand years, that side of the Rosencruez family has turned the universe into a desolate place only so that they could forever prolong their disgusting rule,"
"I believe that unless anyone has any objections, we are obligated to remove our evil counterparts from their roost. One day is too long for creatures like that to call themselves the court of the Pharaoh, that it is,"
"What do you intend on doing then Kenshin? I have already told you that Yami, Rini and Anzu can't be defeated,"
"I would have to disagree with you, Lynette. I know there is no way that I am invincible. We must, however, finish this before Lynette Rosencraft gets here. She would like nothing more than to turn this into a blood bath, her and her evil creation,"
"What do you mean Yami?"
"That isn't really important right now. Let's get going. Noa, Lafiel, Sisi, May and Tea, I want you all to get our ship back. The rest of us will take care of the Rosencruez,"
"Are you sure, Yami?"
"Trust me, this won't take long,"
They all left the Shadow Realm together. Only the Lynette they discovered, Yami, Yugi, Rini, Runa, and Kenshin went to the palace on Nemesis. Yami lead the way into the palace, not stopping at the front doors. Lynette followed behind them watching in amazement. She had been battling the Rosencruez for a very long time, yet these people that looked exactly like her enemy were sure that they could end it all today.
They encountered only a few Hawks on the way, none of which seemed anxious to attack. It was as though they had a caution sign marked across themselves. Yami did not hesitate once he reached the doors to the chamber where the Rosencruez were. The new door proved that some repair work was under way. Noise from behind the door told that there was also work being done to repair the destroyed floor. Yami pushed open the door. There were low-level Hawks inside but no sign of the Rosencruez. The workers stopped the moment they saw Yami. They froze for a moment and then left. Yami walked to the center of the chamber. The others stood by the door.
"The game is over, whoever you are," Lynette looked around completely puzzled. There was no one in the room but them.
"Whom are you talking to?"
"Sorry Lynette, but you aren't real. I don't know who is behind this, but they are going to be made to stop right now,"
"What do you mean I'm not real?"
"You're finally here Yami. How's it going Yugi? Are you ready to come with me and leave the rest of those fools, Yugi?" Trinity was sitting on the railing of the gallery. She had a devilish smile that showed her fangs, sharp and glistening.
"Where is your master?"
"Your not being much nicer to me than that fake Noa was to miss Lynette. He was killed for that. Would you like to test my patience, Yami?"
"Who is that?" Lynette Rosencruez questioned in a whisper.
"That is an evil creation of Lynette Rosencraft," Rini answered in an equally low tone.
"I have no objection to you just watching, you or your master,"
"You don't care to see me, Yami? I'm hurt," Lynette Rosencraft had now appeared in the chamber standing a few feet away from Yami. "You prefer this cheap alternative to me?"
"Lynette! Why are you and your abomination here?" Yami spun away from her as she pressed in close to him for her taunts.
"She is not an abomination. She is a marvelous supporter of my ambitions,"
"I only ask that for now, you stay out of this. You have done more than enough already," he restated.
"Fine. But you better make this interesting. This has been very boring so far,"
"That is supposed to be me? That is hilarious," Lynette laughed aloud.
"If you want me to keep out of this Yami, then you had better finish this before that fake makes me mad. You know I'm impatient," Lynette stared at the other her. Like two little children, they stuck out their tongues at each other.
"Then I will end this for you. I will end this ruse and I will end your lives," The voice came from an unidentifiable source. The room became dark. Lynette Rosencruez faded away into nothingness. As though he were looking into a mirror, Yami found himself staring down himself.
"Who are you?"
"Whom does it look like? I am you," the mirror image replied.
"You are not me. I thought you said these games were done?"
"This is no game. Maybe you need a little convincing," The one claiming to be Yami transformed into Vash right before their eyes.
"Impossible!"
"Maybe I should take it a step further?" The imposter did as he said he would and went further, returning to the image of Yami but garbing himself in a complete red suit, smiling with long fangs, fangs like that Trinity had revealed earlier.
"Do you believe me now?"
"No way! That looks like he just went full tilt into Lucifer Hawk power. That is not possible," Rini's tone conveyed the deep shock of this imposter. Yami stood his ground, unshaken.
"Rini is right. It is as I thought. You are not even of Lucifer Hawk descent. There is no Lucifer Hawk blood in your body at all. Nor is there Human blood in you. You are an alien creature that excels in promoting the image of people and things that you have seen before. You are nowhere near as strong as me. If you think you can scare me away by pretending that you can reach the levels of power that I can, much less those of unlocked Lucifer Hawk blood, then you are sadly mistaken," Rini and the others, including Lynette, were shocked.
"I'm impressed. You have almost everything correct. I do copy the images of beings I have seen. But I can also copy their powers when I copy their image. Every power you have, I have. And to make hope for your survival more baseless, I am not subject to those same limitations that cause you to lose control. You have no hope whatsoever. It's all over now!" He laughed deeply. It was not only his image that looked like Yami, but his voice sounded like Yami's and his laugh did as well. Yami scoffed at the chameleon's boast.
"You dare scoff at me?"
"You are pathetic."
"What? How dare you?"
"There is a Shadow Duel monster called Change Slime. It has very little attack strength but it has a special ability. It can mimic the attack and defense of any opponent it engages in battle. An inexperienced duelist would likely see this monster as an impassible fortress. It seems hopeless, a monster that can automatically change itself so that its attack becomes its opponent's attack. But an experienced duelist knows that there is a simple way around that. Change Slime can actually take on only the original attack and defense of an opponent, therefore, all one needs to do is increase the power of their monster and Change Slime is easily eliminated. Whatever power level you have seen me at before is as powerful as you can get, but I can far exceed that," There was a certain air of confidence and seriousness in that last expression. It was clear that he was not bluffing.
"You must be blind or insane or both. You mean to tell me that you can exceed your own highest level?"
"What you are now is not close to my highest level,"
"You are delusional. I think you are the one playing games now. I am you as a Lucifer Hawk. You cannot bluff against me. You know, I know, and everyone here knows that this here is the highest level of power one of you all can reach,"
"Have you ever seen what happens when one of us looses a limb?"
"What?"
"How about when we are shot by an ordinary person with an ordinary gun?"
"What kind of a question is that? Are you trying to stall for time or something?"
"I guess that you haven't. Come on demon. Try me!" The others were speechless spectators. Yami's words were more like that which they would have expected from Lynette or her creation, not the Pharaoh. Lynette gaped at him for a moment as she stared at Yami. He had a somewhat disturbing look about him. He was grinning at his imposter not in defiance or even contempt, but as though he were waiting for him to step forward and make a real challenge, not just talk. It was as though Yami wanted to fight. Lynette overcame her amazement. A smile crossed her lips. She spoke quietly to her creation.
"Trinity, whatever you do, do not interrupt the Pharaoh. Keep an eye on the coming battle. You may find yourself in need of the knowledge you gain from this,"
"If you say so, Ms. Lynette…" Trinity answered, her attention already fixated on Yami.
"So now you try to insult me?"
"I have only stated what you are, a vile demon. If you don't like it, then maybe you should run home to the pits of Demon World that you crawled out of,"
"Do you hope to get anywhere by insulting me?"
"I only hope to finish this. As Lynette said, it has been boring so far. I thought that you might be able to make things interesting, but I see that I am wrong now. You are nothing but a weakling. You get by with scaring away your opponents who are too afraid of their own shadow to stand up to it. If you are not as weak as I believe then please prove it now. Attack me! Use everything that you have!"
"You are pretty anxious to die. That is funny. I have never met anyone so prepared to leave this world once and for all. I usually get to torture them much longer."
"I could care less what you enjoy, demon scum. Your existence is a humiliation to those that call themselves noble demons. Even the putrid demon trash that I have disposed of in the past were better suited for my time. I have been patient long enough. I could have ended this long ago. Either attack me or I will not give you the chance to see the slightest bit of the power you thought you had,"
"As you wish. I will send you to an early grave!" The imposter began to surge with power. His energy skyrocketed. His mouth widened to a great grit of teeth, accented by his long sharp fangs. It seemed as though he was not lying when he said that his power was equal to and greater than Yami's. But Yami stood where he was simply smiling. His cape was flapping wildly due to the wake of his imposter's energy increase.
"Yes, that's it. Power up until you are blue in the face. Give it everything you've got parasitic worm. Make yourself as strong as you can. Make known your true form, the form of the demon beast that you were before you killed so many. I will send you to the pits of Hades where you belong,"
"Hah ha hah! You have sealed your fate," The imposter mocked as his power continued to increase. "To think that the Pharaoh would be stupid enough to misunderstand his own power. It is truly a sad thing to see that someone that is supposed to be so great is so pathetic," He completed his power increase.
"Me, pathetic? It is you who cannot understand my power. You have tried to harness a power far too complex for you to understand. Enough of this! Do you understand why I have no choice but to destroy you? Once I read into your mind and found out of what you did, you are worse than Lynette's abomination. Anzu, Rini, allow me authorization!"
"What are you babbling about? You cannot possibly hope to defeat me," Anzu had appeared next to her sister along with the others.
"You have my authorization Yami. By my name Anzu, I give authorization,"
"Mine as well. By my name Rini, I give authorization,"
"Authorization received and confirmed. Activating Control Arts Restriction Level System. Unlocking the Craft. Releasing Control Arts Restriction to level four," Energy swathed the room. "Craft to remain unlocked until the target has been eternally silenced,"
"I think we better back away a little. This is usually a dangerous situation," They did as Anzu advised and stepped away from Yami. His power felt empty. They could feel a power there, but were unable to find out a level for that power.
"Are you ready demon? I promise to make this as quick as possible, Chameleon,"
The chameleon moved quickly to Yami's left. He created a sword out of energy and cut off Yami's arm. Yami did not move an inch. Chameleon swung his sword again and was able to cut off Yami's right arm from the elbow down. Chameleon retreated, thinking that Yami was just about done. He had succeeded in cutting off both of Yami's arms, surely leaving him to bleed himself dry. That was not the case, however. Yami laughed a grim laugh.
"I see that you have answered my previous question. You don't have a clue as to what happens when you try to destroy my body,"
"Why aren't you dead? You should be bleeding to death!"
"You cannot kill me with such an archaic attack. I should never have thought that I needed to use the Craft against you. It can be very risky if I had gone to level one, but I knew that it wasn't necessary to go that far. Feel free to try again, if you think you can before I destroy you," Yami's arms rose from the floor and reattached themselves to his body.
"Since you seemed to know so little of Vash, I think I will introduce you to one of his favorite toys," He pulled from thin air a long, black gun with gold writing on the side.
"You believe my attack to be useless and you think a gun can kill me?" the chameleon scoffed. Yami raised the gun and leveled it towards Chameleon's head.
"This is no ordinary weapon. It uses a bullet that has been dipped in the magic of the Craft. It tears through evil like a bat out of Hell, which is where I plan to send you," He cocked the gun using a psychic power. He squeezed the trigger once. The bullet screamed forward from the barrel straight for the center of Chameleon's forehead. He tried to block the shot with his energy sword, but the bullet tore through. It made a gaping hole in Chameleon's head that encompassed where his eyes and nose should have been. His body fell to the floor and crumbled to sand.
"Target has been silenced, resetting controls," Anzu and Rini both declared
"Excellent. Congratulations to you all. The first test has been completed," The same voice that preceded their arrival here was speaking to them once again. Everything around them turned to black except for random spots of what looked like candle light; everything else had vanished.
"Who are you? What do you mean, "test"?"
"In time, May. For now, you must only focus on the test the Great One has prepared. The first part of the test was for Yami. The rest of you all will be placed in separate testing areas. I cannot guarantee any of you will end up in the same area. If you all pass, you will be shown the way to complete your journey. That is all I can tell you now. Good luck on the rest of your test,"
"What is going on? You can't tell us anything else at all?"