SEVENTEEN: LIMITLESS (Featuring Jezzeff, Veevrant, Zutan, Rosemary, Zell, Stone, Medira, Serafine, Ash, Daphne, and their parents, Aliese and Tiktah. With appearances later on from Raffitty, Captain Smith under his original identity of Captain Smizek, Garron, and others. Here, you'll gain some new insight into Sera, Ash, and Daphne's family and get to know their parents. This one-shot will also explain a lot about what ultimately happened to Sera and Ash and why their parents changed after their deaths.)
There was blood everywhere, his blood, but his mother wasn't finished yet. At just eight years old, Jezzeff had already learned not to cry out in pain. That only made her angry and fueled her madness. This was normal for him, and he couldn't remember a time when it had not been.
His mother, Laurel, wasn't always like this. In public, she kept her head down and blended in with the rest of the Eltarian lower class. She was no one special, and she worked as a seamstress from the time she was a young girl, selling her creations at the marketplace every weekend. No one paid much attention to her, and they paid even less attention to her son. She had shamed her family by getting pregnant out of wedlock with the child of a man she never saw again. They distanced themselves from her and never accepted her son. Maybe that was why no one ever seemed to notice the marks on him.
In her anger at being disowned, Laurel experimented with dark magic. She learned the spell to summon a vizu when Jezzeff was only an infant. The creature had shown her the path to power, but it had also driven her mad. She hid it well, focusing her madness on the son she despised. She tortured him daily and seemed to enjoy inflicting pain on him. No one knew what went on in their humble shack of a home, but they stayed away, perhaps sensing the darkness that lurked within the walls.
His only sanctuary was school. Jezzeff was smart, and he'd shown an affinity for strong magic. His teachers encouraged him to learn more. They saw the deep sadness in the lonely boy's eyes, but they assumed he was just shy and that was why none of the other children took to him.
On his ninth birthday, his mother attacked him so brutally, he was certain death would come for him. She slashed his face open with a ritual dagger, first above his left eye and then across it, leaving him with sight only on his right side. He could not hide those marks no matter how hard he tried, and they would scar his face for the rest of his life.
"What happened to your face, Jezzeff?" His favorite teacher asked in concern.
"I was wandering in the woods and found a curious tool," Jezzeff lied easily. His mother had trained him to come up with excuses for his injuries since he'd learned to form proper sentences. "I didn't know what it was and started fidgeting with it and hurt myself."
"You poor dear! I see the worst of the injury has healed."
"Yes, my mother healed me." That was true. She would never do enough to take away his pain, but his mother always kept him from actually dying.
"Can you see properly?"
Tears threatened to fall from his eyes, but Jezzeff held them back. "No," he admitted. "That eye no longer has any vision."
His teacher looked at him sympathetically before sending him to play with the other children. Generally, the others ignored him entirely, but that day, they pointed at him and began saying cruel things about how ugly he'd become. They called him a monster. He fell to the ground in tears as they crowded around him, curling into a ball and begging them to stop. The students simply doubled their efforts, leaving him no space as they surrounded and mocked him. After what seemed like an eternity of this, one boy began moving through the crowd with determination.
"Hey!" He said harshly. "Leave him alone."
"But he's so scary looking, Vee," one of the girls insisted.
"You want scary? I'll show you scary," Veevrant, the wealthiest and therefore most popular boy in the school, replied. He manifested a snake out of thin air and levitated it toward the girl. She screamed and ran away. The other students stared at him.
"Why would you do that, Vee? It was mean," one of the boys said.
"Because... This boy is my best friend, and if anyone picks on him again, they're going to have to answer to me," Vee replied. "Are we clear?"
The other students backed off as Jezzeff stared at the popular boy in confusion. "Best friend?" He repeated. "We've never even spoken before."
Vee extended his hand toward Jezzeff. "Take it," he said gently. "I won't hurt you."
Jezzeff took Vee's hand and allowed him to help him get back on his feet. "Thank you," he said softly.
"What's your name?" Vee asked.
"Jezzeff..." He replied shyly.
"Well, Jezz, don't worry. If anyone picks on you again, I'll make them regret it."
"You have all the friends in the world. Everyone likes you. Why would you want to be my friend?"
"Why wouldn't I? You seem nice enough. And everyone else likes me because my family has money, which is rare in this village. You never pretended to be my friend just so I'd do favors for you... Besides, I dislike bullies. I'd much rather be friends with a nice boy who never picks on others. We're going to be the best of friends, I just know it."
From that day on, Vee kept his word and became Jezzeff's best friend. They were as inseparable as brothers, and he never made Jezzeff feel like a freak because of his scars. Even as the horrific abuse continued at home, Jezzeff could endure it because he finally knew there was one person in the world who cared about him.
Jezzeff had another secret. After his mother blinded his left eye, he began having visions. At first, he feared they had somehow been induced by a vizu during one of her rituals, but he realized the Universe had simply decided to grant him a different way to see. Although he'd always had magic, the visions were new, and he wanted desperately to tell someone about them. He confided in Vee, who had a number of unusual gifts himself. Vee helped Jezzeff stop fearing the visions and come to view them as a blessing.
The boys began experimenting with their powers. Jezzeff learned he could see visions of past events if he tapped into the energy of a location. He was slowly learning to control the powerful Sorcery in his genes. Vee could control all five of the basic elements, Earth, Air, Fire, Water, and Spirit, and he made it look easy, putting little effort into the magic. He also possessed the power of Conjuring, which meant he could manifest basically anything he could think of out of thin air for brief periods of time. He liked to flaunt this at social gatherings and entertain people.
One day, after an especially savage beating at home, Jezzeff sought comfort in the woods. It was there that he stumbled across the last person he expected to see. The Great Wizard of Eltar greeted him with a pleasant smile. "Good day, my boy," he said kindly. Then, he noticed the fresh marks on Jezzeff's body. "My dear boy... Who has been so unkind to you?" He asked softly.
"I took a tumble down a steep hill," Jezzeff lied automatically. "I am terribly clumsy at times." He offered up a shy smile.
"You lie impressively well, dear boy," Zell said gently. "Were I not the Great Wizard, I would have easily believed you."
"I... I'm sorry," Jezzeff said, staring at his feet in shame.
"There is no need for that," Zell said. "I can see life has been unkind to you, my dear boy. What is your name?"
"I am called Jezzeff, Great Wizard."
"Jezzeff... How old are you?"
"I have lived eleven years."
"I see. Tell me, Jezzeff... Who has treated you so harshly?"
"It... It is my mother, Sir," he replied softly, unable to look at him. "She's not well. The vizu have driven her to madness."
Zell nodded sympathetically. "You poor boy... Did she do that to your eye as well?"
"Yes, Sir."
"That shall not do at all... I cannot leave one so talented, with such potential, in such a situation."
"Potential, Sir?"
"Oh, yes, my dear boy. I have seen your future, and if you make the right choices, your potential is truly limitless. There is nothing you won't be able to do."
"Me? There's nothing special about me. I am just a fatherless boy from a poor village."
"You were not fatherless until recently. Your father was the half-brother of a very respected member of our community. He was from both here and Earth. Your mother used dark magic to stop his heart two years ago... I could not be certain, but I suspected he was murdered. Seeing you, the truth is clear to me."
"My mother killed my father?"
"She despised him for their one night together. She chose to end his life as punishment. I am terribly sorry, my boy." He paused. "Seeing these marks she leaves on you, I know she must be dealt with. Your uncle is a good man. He will surely take you in if he learns who you truly are."
"She will never allow that..."
"I sense your fear and your pain, my dear Jezzeff. I intend to put an end to both this day... No one needs to know."
"Great Wizard... Sir... What do you intend to do?"
"Call me Great Zell, dear boy. We are going to get to know one another quite well. As for what I shall do... Know only that your waking nightmare is coming to an end."
Zell sent him on his way. Jezzeff spent some time with Vee before heading home. There, he found his mother. She lay on the ground dead with her wrists slit open. It appeared to be a tragic suicide. Jezzeff knew the truth in his heart. His mother had been murdered by Zell as a punishment for her crimes.
Seeing his tormentor dead, Jezzeff was finally at peace in his home. "Thank you, Great Zell," he whispered.
You're welcome, my boy, Zell replied in his mind. Contact the authorities, and be convincingly devastated. I shall arrange for you to be reunited with your uncle shortly.
Jezzeff played his role as expected. No one questioned his grief. His acting skills were incredibly well-developed by then. Vee brought him to stay with his family for a couple of nights as Zell made a show of searching for a proper guardian for him.
A short time later, he met his uncle. He knew who he was as soon as he saw him, for the man was a legendary sword maker. "Hello, Jezzeff," he said kindly. "I am Terridian. Welcome to my home."
The house was larger than any Jezzeff had ever seen. Terridian was extremely wealthy despite donating most of his earnings to charitable causes.
"This is my apprentice, Tiktah," Terridian said, pointing to a kind man with a generous smile. "He and his wife, Aliese, come by often. Their son Ash is about your age. Perhaps you boys will get on well."
"It is nice to meet you, Sir," Jezzeff said.
"Don't bother with the Sir bit," Tiktah said pleasantly. "We're all family here. I am just Tiktah."
From that moment on, Tiktah indeed treated the previously unloved boy as family. Terridian was kind to him as well, and for the first time in his life, Jezzeff did not live in fear.
Jezzeff soon befriended Ash. The boy was quiet and shy, just like Jezzeff, and he was always kind to him. Although no one could touch Vee's place in his heart, Jezzeff came to grow quite attached to both Ash and his older sister Serafine. Sera was beautiful, talented, and happy to teach Jezzeff new magic. He had a bit of a crush on her but figured out early that Sera was more interested in older boys. He could accept that as long as she was his friend.
For a time, he was happy. He didn't get to see Vee as often since he'd moved, but at least once a month, they would spend a weekend together.
Realizing the boy had no mother now and that his mother had been a seamstress, Aliese began to sew cloths for him. She was an exceptionally gifted and popular seamstress. Everyone wanted to wear her designs. She stitched bits of magic into every piece she made.
The first time Aliese presented Jezzeff with one of her creations, he wept at her kindness. She reassured him that she enjoyed taking care of others and wanted nothing in return. She gave the boy the sort of hug only a mother could and comforted him as his emotions overwhelmed him.
Aliese and Tiktah were the sort of couple Eltarians revered. They were both powerful with Sorcery, but neither flaunted this. Their biggest concern was taking care of the community. They were well-liked and respected. As their eldest child at twelve years old, Serafine already showed incredible magic and a strong desire to help others. She was a natural leader even as a child. Ash followed her everywhere she went. The pedestal he kept her on was warranted and Jezzeff viewed her the same way her brother did. Ash was gifted with Earth magic, and Jezzeff found him comforting to be around because he always seemed so grounded. The youngest member of the family, Daphne, was barely four years old. She was a ball of sunshine and Jezzeff enjoyed playing with her whenever her parents brought her around.
Soon after Jezzeff settled into his new life, he and Vee were messing around with a few of his uncle's swords. He knew they were not toys, but Vee had begged him to test them out with him. It was going quite well, and Jezzeff was surprised how well he took to using a sword. His lack of proper eyesight didn't seem to affect his ability to use a sword. He adapted quickly to his handicap and compensated with instinct and intuition, sensing where attacks were coming from without having to see them with his eyes.
"You're a natural, Jezzeff," Terridian said from the doorway.
Jezzeff jumped and dropped his sword in surprise. Vee looked at his uncle and flashed him a guilty yet charming smile. "Sorry, Sir," he said. "I've just always wanted to try that."
"It's alright, Veevrant," Terridian said. "You, too, show potential with a sword. With some proper training, you boys could become quite skilled." He nodded to himself. "I shall ask Tiktah to train you. He's the best I've met aside from myself. He'll make an excellent mentor, and perhaps he can teach you to craft weapons as well. You should understand the swords on a deeper level. They deserve to be respected. Here... This one is far better suited for a boy of your size." He tossed Jezzeff a new sword. "That other one was only weighing you down. Vee's is a good choice, however. Keep it. I think I made it for you." Terridian nodded before leaving the boys to carry on.
"Your uncle is incredible," Vee said with a grin.
"He is a good man. I am very lucky," Jezzeff agreed.
Tiktah came over a short time later with Serafine and Ash. Letting Serafine assist him with points she was especially familiar with, Tiktah taught the children the basics of fighting with a sword. This would become a regular part of Jezzeff's routine. Whenever Vee visited, he was included in the training. He picked it up quickly, but he was never as polished as Jezzeff, who practiced on his own for hours at a time to perfect each new skill. The sword became an extension of his body. Each move he made was fluid, like a dance. Tiktah was very impressed with him. So was his uncle.
One day, when Jezzeff was fourteen, he collapsed after pushing himself too far. Tiktah quickly took him to his room and healed him. He insisted the boy eat before he gently told him, "Jezz... You are skilled, and your discipline and dedication are admirable, but you are still just a boy. You need to take time to relax and simply have fun sometimes."
"I want to be the best, like you and my uncle," Jezzeff replied.
"And you shall be, but even I take breaks. I spend time with my wife and my children. I go into town and explore. I meditate in the woods. Most of all, I laugh. It is important to do things which bring you joy, Jezz."
"This brings me joy."
"I understand that, but you need balance. Sometimes, it is good to slow down."
Jezzeff did not argue. He knew Tiktah wouldn't stand for that when he was trying to look out for him. Instead, he went out to the garden, where he found Ash sitting against a tree reading a book and Serafine stretched out on her side in the grass, napping beneath the moonlight with a dragon behind her, wrapped protectively around her body. He knew she'd probably fallen asleep while she should have been studying, but she looked so peaceful there that he dared not wake her.
She's so beautiful, Jezzeff thought. He smiled at the dragon, letting it know he was a friend and not a threat. Then, he made his way toward Ash.
"Hello, Jezz," Ash greeted him warmly, looking up from his book. "I thought you were training with Father."
"He ordered me to take a break," Jezzeff admitted. "I may have pushed myself beyond my limits."
"Join me then," Ash said with a warm smile, patting the ground beside him. "Please pardon Sera. She worked very hard with Talon today. I fear her exhaustion finally caught up to her when we returned to the village."
"She spends a lot of time with him now."
"He's her mentor, so yes... Just as I have spent much time with Stone of late. I'm sorry we don't come by here as often as we once did. I miss our time together."
"I do as well, but I understand." He paused. "Do you think they would consider training me as well?"
"Talon and Stone are quite selective about who they mentor. Working on the Elite Counsel leaves them little time for it. They might refer you to the Brothers of Legend instead. They're quite skilled as well, and make excellent mentors."
"I see," Jezzeff said, a bit disappointed. Zell had told him he was special. If that was true, shouldn't two of the strongest Sorcerers on Eltar want to train him?
"I have an idea," Ash said quickly, sensing his distress. "My father is already training you in battle. Perhaps my mother can train you in magic. Her Sorcery is legendary, and she's done a great job training my sisters and I."
"I do not wish to be a bother. My current training is sufficient," Jezzeff said quickly.
"Nonsense. Mother adores you. I'm certain she would be happy to assist you as your magic grows."
Sure enough, Aliese was eager to take Jezzeff on as a student. She took his magic from strong to genuinely impressive quickly. People began to notice his skills. As Serafine and Ash moved to the city, opportunities to help the people of the village began presenting themselves. Jezzeff might not be quite as revered as Serafine was, but he was appreciated and respected. When he wasn't helping the community, he continued training with a sword and began crafting beautiful swords. They might not be as impressive as his uncle's creations, but they were strong and well-made. His limited free time was spent largely with Vee, although he also traveled to the city to see Serafine and Ash a couple of times a month. When Vee decided he wanted to move to the big city as well, Jezzeff decided to go with him. They were almost immediately offered jobs at the Counsel Building. The friends would routinely be sent out on small missions to help handle the daily affairs of the people of Eltar.
His social life was full of joy. Jezzeff and Vee spent much time with Serafine and Ash. They got to know Medira well as she captured Ash's heart. Jezzeff genuinely liked the girl and loved how happy she made Ash.
"She makes him laugh," he observed. "She is good for him."
"Indeed," Vee agreed. "I enjoy seeing Ash's more playful side. Medira knows how to have fun."
"Gentlemen, may I have a word with you?" Zutan asked. Everyone knew that Zutan was an important member of Zell's Elite Counsel.
"Of course," Jezzeff said.
"Excellent. Follow me." Zutan led them toward a vacant field. "Great Zell suspects a great tragedy has occurred here," he explained. "Many hauntings seem to take place in this very spot, yet no one knows the cause. He has asked me to have you both look into it. With your ability to see visions of past events, Jezz, and with Vee's abilities of the element of Spirit, he believes you may find the answers he seeks."
"We're honored to be given such a task," Jezzeff said humbly.
"Good. Report to me the moment you find anything," Zutan said. He left them to investigate on their own.
"A mystery... How fun!" Vee declared.
Jezzeff was uneasy. Something didn't feel right. Still, he managed a smile for his best friend. He focused his mind on touching the energy of the field. Almost immediately, a vision came to him.
A group of teenage girls stood in the field. They were just gathering there, spending time with one another. Suddenly, a man approached them. Immediately, they fell under his spell. He seduced each of them, taking their purity, their innocence, and ultimately, their lives while they were powerless to even protest. When each of the four girls had only a slight slither of her life force left, he used a sword to slit their throats. He danced in the blood before setting their corpses on fire. He watched them burn until only ashes remained, then scattered them to the winds.
"That monster..." Jezzeff said in horror as he finally disconnected from the vision. "He could have killed them painlessly by simply stealing the last of their life force as they remained entranced, but instead, he slaughtered them..."
"They're still here," Vee said softly. It was clear that, unlike most things, this bothered him. "They're stuck... And their families have no idea what happened to them. They think they ran away." He shook his head. "They were our age, Jezz..."
"We must call Zutan with our report..."
Zutan came to them with Zell a short time later. "Who were they?" Zutan asked.
"Channa, Jessmin, Kystan, and Lina... Four innocent girls from a nearby village who came here looking for a night of fun," Vee replied. "They're all still here, trapped and too weak to free themselves because he stole nearly all of their life force."
"How?" Zutan asked in surprise.
"He had his way with them," Jezzeff explained. "This seemed to drain away their lives."
"He is an incubus," Zell said.
"Eltar has only one incubus... Was this... Did Bartello do such a thing?" Zutan asked in shock.
"Certainly not," Zell replied. "Bartello is not some savage beast... However, this energy is quite similar. I believe he could be the boy's father."
"You think his mother had an affair?"
"No, she is quite loyal to her husband. I think the incubus took the form of the man she loved and deceived her. It's actually quite a clever way to prey on his victims."
"If his father is a force of evil..." Jezzeff began.
"He must be dealt with. It seems he has been using Eltar as his hunting ground for quite some time. He does not belong here." Zell shook his head. "I never detected his presence. He must be exceptionally powerful."
"What shall we do, Great Zell?" Zutan asked.
"This mission is incredibly dangerous," Zell replied. "I cannot, in good conscience, ask you boys to assist me."
"Great Zell... I believe I can help them... The girls he killed," Vee said. "With my power over Spirit, perhaps I can guide them from this place so they may find peace."
Zell nodded. "You are wise, my dear boy. Yes, please help these poor souls move on. I must find a way to track the incubus. Unfortunately, as I try to connect to his energy now, I only detect Bartello."
"Maybe he left Eltar," Zutan suggested helpfully.
"No. He's still here," Jezzeff said. "He stalks his son... I can see this in my mind. He lingers, waiting for the moment to strike. Bartello has encountered him before, but he spoke of it to no one." The vision continued pouring into his mind, but Jezzeff forced himself to remain focused and keep speaking. "He has hurt him in the past, but Bartello grows stronger every time. He wants Bartello to serve the darkness, but he refuses to give in to that. At this point, his father is afraid to approach him. Bartello managed to hurt him the last time."
Zell nodded. "Jezzeff, I want you to come with me. Zutan, watch over Vee as he helps the souls of the girls," he said.
"Yes, Great Zell," Zutan replied.
Jezzeff followed Zell away. Soon, he had another vision. "He is close," he said.
They found the incubus minutes later. He had selected an unexpected target. "Get away from her!" Jezzeff shouted as he spotted Aliese. The incubus had pulled her into his arms and she was trembling. It was clear she was trying to resist him and he was angrily trying to drain her energy as she did.
Zell looked furious. "That is my dear Bella's mother, is it not?" He asked.
"Yes. Aliese is a good soul. Please protect her," Jezzeff said.
"Go to her now, Jezzeff. I will break his hold on her." Zell began casting a protection charm. Jezzeff knew that to have enchanted Aliese, this incubus must be unbelievably powerful. He ran to her side as the incubus was flung away from her by Zell's magic.
"Aliese... Aliese, did he harm you?" Jezzeff asked in a bit of a panic. He searched her for injuries but only found minor ones.
"I am well," Aliese replied softly. "Do not worry for me, sweet Jezz." It was clear how shaken up she was, but Jezzeff could tell the incubus had been unable to violate her. Her life force was nearly as it should be.
Zell cornered the monster. "Incubus! What business have you on Eltar?" He demanded.
"I have found a nice supply of food here," the incubus replied casually. "I have fed well for the last few decades. I might have moved on, but some time ago, there was one whose life I could not drain. You see, she was carrying my offspring, and from the moment the child was conceived, he protected her from me. He was powerful before he was ever born, and I desire to have him work with me, but he resists. So I remain, patiently waiting and watching him grow stronger."
"What is your name, Incubus?" Zell asked.
"I am Banlo, the First."
"The First?" Jezzeff found himself repeating.
"The first incubus ever to exist. I do not live in any realm, but exist in them all. I come from the darkness, born of evil and bloodshed... I am unlike the later incubi, truly one of a kind... Or I was, until my son was born."
"Your crimes are unforgivable, Banlo the First," Zell said firmly. "You shall now face Eltarian justice."
Banlo laughed at that. "I do not answer to your laws, Eltarian," he said. "I am far older than you."
As Zell faced the incubus, Jezzeff saw something impossible in a flash of a vision... The monster was going to seriously harm Zell. He was powerful enough to do unimaginable damage, even to one as strong as the Great Wizard. Quickly, Jezzeff cast a powerful charm on his sword meant to immediately drain all energy from anyone the sword cut. Aleise seemed to realize his intentions and he felt her strengthening the spell. Finally, just as Banlo was about to attack, Jezzeff shoved his sword through Banlo's chest.
The incubus screamed in shock and pain. Jezzeff felt his sword filling with the energy Banlo had stolen from the innocents he'd killed. It happened rapidly. In under a minute, his sword glowed with power and Banlo fell at Zell's feet dead.
Zell stared at Jezzeff in surprise. "Well done, my boy!" He finally said.
Aliese looked equally impressed. "Thank you, Great Zell," Jezzeff replied. "Aliese, do you wish to go anywhere now? May I escort you?"
"I wish to go home, to Daphne and my husband," Aliese replied. "Thank you for your help, Jezz. And thank you, Great Wizard."
"You are the mother of my dear student. No thanks are necessary," Zell replied.
If Bartello knew Jezzeff killed his birth father, he never showed it. Zell began keeping him closer after that, telling him he was proud of him and knew he could be trusted with the most complicated of his secrets. Jezzeff was nearly on the same level as Zutan. Because of this, the two spent a decent amount of time around each other. Jezzeff formed a strong attachment to Zutan's adopted younger sister, Rosemary. Her kindness and optimism lifted his spirits.
One day, Rosemary noticed Jezzeff was upset. It would have been his mother's birthday, which was always a hard day for him. She sat down beside him and rested her head on his shoulder.
"Don't be sad, Jezz," she said sweetly. "Talk to me."
Jezzeff smiled at her kindly. "I'm well, sweet Rosemary," he replied.
She shook her head. "Your heart hurts. I feel it," she insisted.
Only Zell and Vee ever really knew when he was lying, so this surprised him. "It is a difficult day for me," he admitted.
Rosemary hugged him. "You are not alone, Jezz."
"It is my mother's birthday. She was cruel to me when I was small..." Without even realizing it, he touched the bottom of the scar that ran down his eye.
"Was she the one who did that?" Rosemary asked softly.
"Yes... She turned me into this monster you see..."
"You are not a monster," Rosemary said firmly. She paused before adding, "You are beautiful, Jezz... Inside and out." She kissed his cheek just beneath the scar.
Her kindness nearly reduced Jezzeff to tears. "It is you who is beautiful, Rosemary... However, you inspire me to try to become the boy you see."
She smiled at him sweetly. That was the moment that cemented her place in his heart.
For a time, all was well. Then, tragedy struck. Elgan's death was a shock. He was deeply beloved by all of Eltar, and they mourned together as a planet. Soon after, Talon perished as well. Although Serafine was dating Zell by then, it was clear how devastated she was.
At the funeral, Jezzeff kept a close eye on Serafine, trying to comfort her. She stuck close to Laby, Ash, and Medira, but she allowed Jezzeff to watch over her as well. He only broke away from her when he noticed Aliese, Tiktah, and Daphne nearby.
Little Daphne who always smiled looked sad now. It was clear she'd been crying. Tiktah was trying to distract and comfort her as Aliese attempted to send comforting energy to the other mourning Eltarians.
"May I?" Jezzeff asked softly.
"Of course," Tiktah replied.
Jezzeff scooped Daphne up in his arms and kissed her forehead. "Are you well, Miss Daphne?" He asked her.
She shook her head. "This is wrong," she said softly.
"What do you mean?"
"Talon played with fire... He was a dragon. He should have been safe." She sniffled as tears threatened to fall again. "I miss him..."
"It was a terrible accident... We'll all miss him."
"Sera has been crying. When she thinks I am not watching, I see her tears. I want to help, but I don't know how to make her heart heal."
"You are such a sweet thing, Little One," Jezzeff said. "You're so sad, but it is Sera you worry for."
"She is my sister. I don't like when she is sad."
"Nor should you... Sera needs time, Daphne. Her grief is powerful, but she will heal eventually."
Daphne nodded. Jezzeff noticed Vee watching them and called him over. "Hello, Daphne," Vee said.
She sniffled again. "Hello, Vee. How are you?" She asked.
"As well as can be under these circumstances," Vee replied. He conjured a group of flutterfize out of thin air. The creatures, which resembled the butterflies of Earth but were larger and more colorful, flew around Daphne until she smiled. One landed on her hand and she giggled as its wings tickled her.
The boys continued to keep Daphne distracted until the funeral was over. Serafine came toward them and pulled her sister into her arms. She bravely hid her tears as Daphne hugged her tightly and said, "I love you, Sera."
Serafine hugged her even tighter. "I love you, too, Sister."
Ash joined them, along with Medira and Laby. As Laby pulled Serafine and Daphne both into his arms and tried to cheer them up, Jezzeff noticed how broken and lost Ash looked.
"Take care of him," he said to Medira. "As he focuses on caring for his sisters."
"Always," Medira promised.
"I'm well," Ash said numbly.
"You are a horrible liar, Ash," Vee said with a sad laugh. "And I know you were close to Talon."
"There was a time when I believed he would become my brother," Ash admitted. "Sera loved him deeply..."
"Then she met the Great Wizard and decided to go for the most eligible bachelor on all of Eltar," Vee said. "It was a bit odd, wasn't it? But love is like that, I suppose."
"Perhaps..." Ash said. It was clear he was distracted.
Laby was spinning Daphne around in his arms to try to cheer her up. It made her giggle, which put a smile on Serafine's face. She might be heartbroken, but she was trying her best to keep going despite this. Jezzeff admired her strength.
After Serafine hugged her sister and parents goodbye, she ran off to join Zell. He'd stayed at the front of the funeral, where she had been, along with Stone, Zutan, and the rest of the Elite Counsel. Jezzeff sensed something off as she stood with Zell, but he wrote it off as grief.
It wasn't long before Jezzeff realized the change in Serafine was permanent. She remained with Zell, but he sensed she no longer trusted him. It wasn't until he, Ash, and Medira spent a day together that he realized how serious the change was.
While Ash walked away to get some food for them, Jezzeff sat with Medira, who had her baby brother Zai in her lap. "How is he, truly?" He asked her.
She knew what he was asking. "Ash grieves for Talon, and for Elgan," Medira admitted. "He tries to busy himself by looking after Sera... She has not recovered from her grief, no matter how she acts."
"I worry for them... They are like family to me."
"I know. They appreciate your friendship, Jezz. Right now, they need friends."
"I shall remain here for them."
"Good." Zai began to fuss, so Medira shifted her focus to caring for the boy.
When Ash returned, Jezzeff unexpectedly had a vision as he looked into his friend's eyes. He saw Serafine and Ash making treasonous accusations against Zell. The list of his supposed crimes was long and disturbing, and included him killing both Talon and his own brother.
Their grief has made them irrational, he decided. His loyalty to them was strong, but his loyalty to Zell was deeper. After all, Zell had saved him from his mother. He was an incredible force of Good, and Jezzeff could never fully repay him.
"Did you see something?" Ash asked in concern. "You look quite shaken."
"I saw a terrible fire sweeping through a village," he lied easily. "Forgive me, my friends, but I must alert Zell so this tragedy can be prevented."
"Of course. We'll get together another day," Ash replied. He gave Jezzeff a tight hug. Medira kissed his cheek before sending him off.
Jezzeff went straight to Zell. "Great Zell... I must speak with you urgently," he said.
Zell looked surprised. "Of course, Dear Boy. Come in," he said. He closed the door to his office behind him.
"It must be their grief, Great Zell... But two people you trust are on a dangerous path."
"Go on, Jezzeff. What did you see?"
"Betrayal, Sir... By Serafine and Ash."
Zell shook his head. "That's not possible, my boy. My Bella is fiercely loyal to me. Her love is nearly all-consuming."
"Great Zell... She doubts you. I think it began when Talon perished. She has convinced herself you were responsible, and while I believe she still loves you deeply, she is plotting with Ash to prove this theory."
Zell still seemed unconvinced. "Bella cannot betray me. Trust this is true. You are mistaken."
"The Prophecy of Two Brothers you shared is incomplete," Jezzeff blurted out.
Zell stared at him. His shock was clear. "You saw the full prophecy?"
"I did not see the details, but I saw them discovering the truth."
Zell nodded. Suddenly, he seemed very nervous. "I see... Thank you, Jezzeff, for coming to me with this. I needed to know. You have done well."
"I am certain they just need clarity. If you speak to Sera, surely she'll realize this is madness and stop pursuing proof that does not exist?" He told himself it didn't exist despite knowing Zell had, in fact, hidden part of an important prophecy from the world. He must have had his reasons, he insisted to himself.
"Yes... Yes, I shall handle this situation before it gets worse. Go on, Jezzeff. I need to focus and figure out how to resolve this."
Jezzeff left. He was certain Zell would have Serafine and Ash thinking straight again in no time.
Exactly one week later, Zell carried Serafine's corpse back to her family's village. He proceeded to tell everyone that Ash had brutally slaughtered her.
The words Zell had uttered to all of Eltar after murdering Jezzeff's mother echoed in his mind now. Laurel killed herself. It's quite the tragedy. My heart aches for the boy...
Suddenly, Jezzeff knew the truth. Zell had murdered Serafine and framed Ash, and he was positive it was his fault.
"He was meant to talk to her... Not kill her," he whispered in horror as he hid in a nearby field away from the crowd. He'd never imagined Zell would do such a horrific thing, but now he felt foolish for not realizing this was the only possible outcome of their conversation.
Ash was essentially catatonic. He stared off into space or simply looked around sadly, his shock and grief clear. He spoke not a word and did not attempt to defend his innocence.
"Jezz... Help him. Please," Medira begged. "You know him. Ash is incapable of such savagery, especially against Sera. People will listen to you because of your visions and your connection to Zell."
"I cannot stand against the Great Wizard, Medira," Jezzeff replied. "He found Ash covered in her blood beside her body. There is nothing I can do for him."
"You know he did not do this, Jezzeff! How can you stand there and pretend you believe such an impossible tale?"
A lie began to form in his mind. It was convincing enough that he could almost believe it himself. "I believe that a vizu drove him mad."
"That is ridiculous! Ash knows better than to-"
"Trust me, Medira... A vizu can change everything about a person. My own mother became a cruel monster because of one. I don't speak of it, but I know. It must have been a vizu."
They debated this briefly, with Medira remaining unconvinced. In frustration and anger, Medira began to shout at him. "You're supposed to be his friend, Jezz!" She cried. "He needs your help!"
"There is nothing I can do. He is guilty. Vizu drive people mad, Medira. It is their specialty. Ash was simply not strong enough-"
Rather unexpectedly, Medira slapped him across the face. "Ash is a thousand times stronger than you shall ever be, you coward," she said as he stared at her in shock. Clearly disgusted by him, she walked away. That was when Zell arrived.
"That is an excellent story, my dear boy," he said. "I want you and Zutan to spread it to everyone else."
"Great Zell..." Jezzeff began. He hesitated. "Why?" He asked.
"I had to, my boy. It was the only way," Zell replied. "I believe you are ready for the truth now. You have proven your loyalty."
In graphic detail, Zell confessed to his many crimes. He justified them in ways that almost made sense. It was only when Zell detailed everything he'd done to Serafine that Jezzeff felt ill.
"She was your lover..." Jezzeff said softly.
"Yes, and that is why her betrayal was especially unexpected. You see, I put a powerful charm on her mind the day I discovered she was so gifted in Sorcery that she'd accidentally turned Labyrinth immortal. I needed to make her mine. I'd never met a woman I could consider nearly my equal before. So I moved her feelings for Talon as far aside as I could and ensured she would begin obsessively thinking of me. Belladonna would most likely have come to me eventually, but with Talon in the way, she needed a bit of a push."
"You mean your relationship was a lie?"
"Not at all. I adored my Bella. She made an excellent ally and would have done well ruling at my side. Her power was immense and she was absolutely, breathtakingly beautiful. None of those things were lies, Jezzeff."
Jezzeff thought of Serafine's beauty. His heart ached. I might as well have slaughtered her myself... I did this to her, and now, Ash is going to die, too. Sweet, gentle Ash... My friend... The family I never dreamed I could have is suffering because of me.
"You loved her," Zell realized with surprise.
"I love them all. The Veritez family has been so kind to me... But, yes, Sera was the first girl I fell for... I simply realized she had no interest in me as more than a friend."
"Love is weakness, my dear boy. That is a lesson you must learn in order to reach your true potential. As I told you when you were a boy, your power is limitless. If you're willing to do what must be done, you will find you keep growing stronger and gaining power. You never have to be a victim again, Jezzeff... If you'll only allow me to show you the path to greatness."
Jezzeff wanted to agree, but his heart still ached. Serafine was dead because he'd trusted Zell... And Ash had been sentenced to death for a crime he could never have committed. "Great Zell... I want to be strong, but this pain I feel at my guilt... How can I make it stop?"
Zell smiled at him. "If you truly wish for me to strengthen your heart so it does not ache for them, I can do that, my boy. I can make you harder so things like this no longer bother you."
"You can take the guilt and grief?"
"Not fully, unless I put you under a powerful spell that would simply be a lie... However, I can help you ignore those emotions in favor of better ones. I can ensure your lust for power is stronger than any guilt you might feel for your actions." He paused. "You were right to come to me, my boy... And to do so against people you loved took great strength. You have proved your loyalty to me tenfold. Let me do this much for you."
Jezzeff nodded. "Please," he said. "Please make this pain stop. I will do anything."
Zell touched Jezzeff's arm gently. Suddenly, all of his pain stopped. He felt better about his choices.
"I need a favor, my boy, and only you can assist me," Zell said.
"Of course, Great Zell. Anything," Jezzeff agreed.
"Today, I had the honor of meeting my Bella's charming little sister, Daphne. She is quite traumatized, yet very brave. She dared to speak to me and defend her brother's innocence even as she cried." He paused. "I dislike seeing that girl in tears. I want to protect her, but I cannot do much with her parents hovering. I need you to slip this to them in a drink." He handed Jezzeff two vials.
"Will this hurt them?" Jezzeff asked nervously. He didn't want to cause Tiktah and Aliese any more pain than he already had.
"Not at all. This mixture is a simple spell to help them focus on what matters... Protecting their family's reputation, which has been horribly tarnished by this tragedy."
"That won't matter to them. Their children mean the world to them. If anything, they'll just want to save Ash from being executed."
"The potion is powerful, dear boy... Even with their power, it will take control of their minds. That control will last as long as I desire, and I can use it to help them heal from their grief."
"What will happen to Daphne?"
"I shall protect that child with all that I possess. You have my word. If anyone dares to harm a hair on her precious head, I will destroy them. She shall be safe, Jezzeff."
He nodded. "As long as this does not harm them, I shall give it to them," he promised.
That night, he visited their home. Daphne lay passed out on the couch. It was clear she'd cried herself to sleep. Aliese stroked her hair as she sobbed silently. Tiktah offered Jezzeff an extremely sad smile.
"Thank you for coming, Jezz," he said softly. "It is very kind of you."
"Of course. I brought blizel wine," Jezzeff said. He presented the bottle to Tiktah. Blizel wine was a traditional drink of mourning.
Tiktah nodded. He stepped away to retrieve three glasses. His hands were trembling as he reached for the bottle.
"Allow me," Jezzeff said quickly. He poured the wine into the glasses. As soon as Tiktah looked away, probably to reassure himself Daphne and Aliese were still safe on the couch, Jezzeff slipped the potion into two of the cups. He handed them to Aliese and Tiktah respectfully.
"For Serafine," he said softly, toasting with his untainted glass. He took a deep breath before adding, "And for Ash."
Grateful for his apparent loyalty to their son when all of Eltar believed he was a murderer, Aliese and Tiktah raised their own glasses. Jezzeff watched as they drank them. Nothing obvious happened at first. Then, Daphne began to stir.
"Sera..." She called softly as she clearly had a nightmare. In seconds, she was sobbing. This was followed by screaming. "Sera! Sera!"
"Shhh," Tiktah said a bit harshly. "It's just a bad dream, Daphne. Wake up."
Daphne's screams quieted into sobs as she continued calling her dead sister's name. She didn't wake up. Finally, Tiktah pulled her from Aliese's arms and shook her a bit harder than necessary. "Awaken, Child," he said firmly. He'd never used such a tone before, especially not with Daphne.
Daphne opened her eyes. "Father..." She said softly. She began sobbing harder, burying her face in his chest.
"Yes, yes... It's over now," Tiktah said dismissively. He handed her back to Aliese. "Excuse her, Jezzeff... She's too young to understand some things should not be discussed in front of company."
"Nightmares are only natural in these circumstances," Jezzeff said. He couldn't believe how cold Tiktah was being.
"Mother... I... I miss Sera..." Daphne whispered. "I want to see Ash... Perhaps I can make him tell the truth."
"Hush, Daphne," Aliese said. "Go back to sleep."
"He's innocent, Mother. Ash would never hurt Sera."
"Stop discussing such things, Daphne. It's not appropriate for a child."
"But, Mother-"
Aliese looked like she was about to snap. Jezzeff intervened. "Come on, Daphne. Let me tuck you into your bed tonight," he said gently. He picked her up and carried her to her room as she wrapped her arms around his neck and sobbed softly into his shoulder. He comforted her and eventually coaxed her back to sleep.
He should have felt guilty. After all, he'd cost the child her older siblings and now, he'd technically taken her parents away from her. Instead, he told himself it was for the best. In their grief, they could not have cared for the girl properly. Zell seemed genuinely touched by Daphne. She had that affect on people. Jezzeff believed he would do as he'd promised and protect the girl.
Dutifully, Jezzeff attended Ash's execution. It bothered him, but he was able to accept it and move on quickly. Only Medira's screams vaguely reminded him of the horror of what had just occurred.
As time wore on, the people of Eltar only spoke of the tragedy in hushed tones. Ash's name was nearly forgotten as most people took to calling him simply, "the brother." Jezzeff had earned himself a spot at the top of Zell's allies. He and Zutan were eager to do whatever it took to keep people from realizing what Zell had done. At first, it bothered him a little, but the power Zell gave him in return was addicting. He was becoming unstoppable, his power truly limitless.
Eventually, Jezzeff realized Zell was looking at Daphne with lust and desire. She was only twelve, and Jezzeff knew he should have an issue with it, but Zell seemed to genuinely be crazy about the girl. He was the only one really taking care of her with Aliese and Tiktah obsessed with fixing their damaged reputations.
The years were generous to Jezzeff. He had everything he'd ever desired. He still spent a lot of time with Vee, who had no idea of the secrets Jezzeff was keeping for Zell. He also found himself falling for Rosemary. Zutan noticed.
"Jezz... We're friends," Zutan said.
"Of course," Jezzeff replied in confusion.
"With all due respect... Stay away from my sister."
"With all due respect, is that not her choice?"
"No, it is not. Rosemary is still young. She does not understand your intentions, but I have seen the way you look at her with lust in your eyes."
"So what if I do? She is beautiful, Zutan. You cannot tell me you have never desired her yourself."
Zutan looked at him with disgust. "She is my sister!"
"Not by blood. There would be nothing wrong if you pursued her. Is that what this is about? Do you lust for her as well?"
"How dare you speak so boldly about such things? Who do you think you are, Jezzeff?"
"I am no longer your subordinate, Zutan. Zell views us as equals. Therefore, I do not have to take orders from you."
Zutan quickly used his magic to suck all of the air from Jezzeff's lungs. It hurt terribly and Jezzeff struggled to find a way to breathe. He couldn't. Only when he was certain he would collapse did Zutan release his hold and allow him to inhale.
"I swear on all of Eltar, if you touch my sister, you will wish I killed you," Zutan said coldly as Jezzeff coughed and tried to regain his composure.
"Apologies," Jezzeff coughed out.
"Don't challenge me again, Jezzeff. No matter what power Zell grants you, when it comes to my sister, I will find a way to destroy you if you cross any lines." He walked away, leaving a stunned Jezzeff to recover.
Some time later, Daphne was killed. Zutan seemed bothered by this. He'd had a bit of a soft spot for the girl. Jezzeff knew he should be devastated, but he wasn't even surprised when Zell killed people anymore. In a way, it had been inevitable. He'd known it was only a matter of time before Zell destroyed the girl he very nearly loved. She was too big of a threat to him.
It is a pity, Jezzeff thought. Still, at least she no longer suffers, and she can be reunited with her siblings. This is for the best. He ignored the guilt screaming at him for his actions. He'd helped isolate that little girl when she needed support the most. Her parents had never returned to their former selves and cared more about society and their image than anything else. Daphne had been easy prey for Zell because of Jezzeff's actions. He knew Aliese and Tiktah would never have allowed Zell to pursue their daughter if they'd been in their right minds. They had been good people. They had been his people, the ones he could turn to when he was sad or lonely or needed help... And he had destroyed them.
He lived with this secret for years, just one more lie he told for Zell. When Zell was killed by Zordon, Jezzeff could have been free from everything. He could have chosen a new path. Instead, he remained loyal to Zell, believing he would return one day. Zell left him instructions which appeared after his death. He intended to follow them.
When Zutan died in a storm, Jezzeff knew the truth. Stone had killed him, and he couldn't really blame him. Upon visiting the property, he had a vision and knew Zutan had baited Stone by telling him he was the one who'd betrayed Talon and gotten him killed. He also knew this was because Zutan had accepted he was going to meet a worse end if he stuck around waiting for Zell to return. He had failed the Great Wizard by refusing to murder Rosemary. Even with everything evil he had done, Zutan still had a shred of good in him, and it came directly from his love for his sister. She kept the innocent, gentle boy who'd once been the underdog of the Elite Counsel alive in some small way.
Immediately following Zutan's death, Jezzeff began to pursue Rosemary romantically. She was vulnerable and heartbroken at the death of her brother, and she trusted Jezzeff. She leaned on him when she had no one else. Within weeks, they were dating. He came to enjoy their time together very much, but mostly, he viewed her as an assignment. Zell wanted him to keep Rosemary from becoming an issue in the future. She had great power, and as she matured, so did her magic.
Eventually, after many years together, Jezzeff and Rosemary were married. Vee, still his one loyal friend to the end of time, was by his side as he married his beautiful bride. He had feelings for her, but he tried not to let them blind him. He knew fully loving her was too dangerous and would weaken him, and by that point, Jezzeff never wanted to be weak again. He was addicted to power and glory, and he was enjoying his role on Eltar as a trusted member of the senior staff at the Counsel Building.
Decades passed. Rosemary became pregnant. She was going to tell Jezzeff when she discovered something unexpected in her ritual room. A journal that couldn't possibly be there sat on the altar. Confused, Rosemary opened it with trembling hands. She knew that journal. It had belonged to her brother, and it had vanished when the storm destroyed much of his mansion. Yet, here it was.
"Zutan?" She whispered. She looked at the pages in front of her and recognized his handwriting. Somehow, she knew it was important that she read his private entries. She felt like he wanted her to see them.
Slowly, the truth was revealed. Zutan had written down every single detail of the things he'd done. It began with the day he'd saved her life when she was an infant, and she smiled as she read the story in his own words. The later entries began to take a much darker turn, however. Soon, Rosemary found out what sort of man Zutan had actually become before his death. While this shattered Rosemary's view of her brother, she forced herself to continue reading. For whatever reason, this journal had reappeared. Something important was inside of it.
She gasped as Zutan detailed the involvement of another traitor... Her beloved Jezzeff. He lies as easily as most breathe, the journal read. I believe that Jezz may be the most dangerous ally Zell has made yet. I am capable of much, however, my sister can bring me back from the darkness. I owe Rosemary more than I can ever repay for keeping me even slightly human in the face of such evil... Jezzeff does not seem to have that. I thought Serafine and her siblings might be his humanity, but he betrayed them. He is the reason Sera and Ash are dead. I will not claim to mourn them... I liked Sera, but her rejection bothered me deeply. However, to see how ruthlessly he pretends to grieve while he secretly enjoys the benefits of this betrayal is disturbing... He comforts Daphne as if he is not the one who stole everyone she loved from her life. Even I am not so cold. Looking at Daphne has occasionally made me question my actions and even regret some of them. She believes in me, and that faith gives me hope that I am not completely lost after all... Just as Rosemary, she holds the light that can guide people back from the darkness. Yet she does not seem to affect Jezz. He could care less how he has broken her. He even brags about being the one who made it possible for Zell and Daphne to be together. He disgusts me. She was a child. Even I do not harm little girls.
"My love... Is it true?" Rosemary whispered in horror. Could Jezzeff be the monster Zutan claimed? She continued reading. Zutan discussed how he did not like the way Jezzeff looked at a young Rosemary with lust. He also detailed some of the horrific crimes he and Jezzeff covered up and even committed themselves in later years. The final entry was the one which shattered her heart fully, however.
The time has come. I have paid for my crimes. I perished, at Stone's hands, and that is fine by me. I deserved it. After all, I got Talon killed. I have been nothing short of a horrible person. It's taken me time to write this. I had to use energy I no longer really have to write an entry as a dead man, but it is vital... One day, when the time is right, I will gift this journal to my sister. Rosemary, you must know the truth, or you shall never be safe. He wanted me to kill you, but I could not. I love you far too much to ever harm you. In failing Zell, I have sentenced myself to a horrible fate... It is worth the price. I love you, my sister. I always will. Please be safe, and try not to give up on me. If you still believe in me, perhaps some part of me can still be saved in a future lifetime. I am so sorry for failing to be the man you thought I was. I do not know if I can ever become such a person. I am evil, and I accept that with pride most of the time. I hope you do not despise me too much. Regardless, I will always love you. That is the one thing I shall not let Zell take from me. Be safe. Be vigilant. And, no matter what, do not trust Jezzeff. He lies so easily I do not think he knows what the truth is anymore. Goodbye, Sweet Rosemary. All My Love, Zutan.
She wept as she clutched the journal to her chest. After she had processed everything she'd just read, Rosemary made a decision. She cast a powerful spell on herself to grant her the ability to progress her own pregnancy. Then, she sent the child through a portal a bit into the future. That child, Imyra, would end up being raised by kind people who nurtured her well. One day, she and her husband Dodivan would be killed trying to stand up for what was right. Their children, Zydia and Rupi, would ultimately join the Rebellion of Eltar. Although Jezzeff would encounter his grandchildren in passing, he never learned that they were connected to him by blood. Rosemary's magic was that powerful.
Unfortunately, Jezzeff knew Rosemary had betrayed him. A vision had given away the fact that she'd been pregnant, but he could not figure out where she'd hidden their child. "Why are you doing this, Ro?" He asked her sadly, not understanding.
"Was it all a lie, Jezz?" She asked softly.
"What? I do not understand what you mean," he replied.
"Did you love me, or was I simply a pursuit for power?"
He stared at her. "I love you, Rosemary," he said.
Recalling Zutan's warning, Rosemary frowned. "Do you? Or is that a lie as well?"
"Rosemary, please, be rational. You know how much you mean to me."
They argued for a bit. In the end, Rosemary made the hardest choice of her life. "I am leaving you, Jezzeff," she said firmly.
"You cannot. I shall not allow it," Jezzeff protested.
"I was wrong about you. You are a monster. I cannot stay with you knowing what you have done."
"Is it not better to believe a comforting lie than to live with the consequences of leaving your husband?" He demanded.
"No. It isn't."
Jezzeff sighed. He let her walk away. He waited until night fell before knocking her unconscious with a spell. He proceeded to use the magic Zell had taught him to bring her under his control just as Zell had enchanted Serafine into loving him. For a time, Rosemary forgot what she'd learned. Unfortunately, she also forgot about their child, so Jezzeff was never able to learn where she had hidden their baby.
Eventually, years later, Rosemary had a powerful dream. Sensing she was in danger, Zutan came to her. He sat in her room, desperately begging her to remember his warning. Somehow, she did remember just enough to shatter Jezzeff's spell. Unfortunately, before she could leave him or even tell anyone what he'd done, Jezzeff wrapped his hands around her throat and strangled her. Rosemary had learned how to fight, but she was gentle by nature, and she could not overpower him. She died a short time later, and Jezzeff's horrible secrets died with her.
For a long time, Jezzeff played the grieving husband. Vee moved in with him, trying to comfort him. Jezzeff was happy to have his best friend around all the time, and he was pleased with his new life. They joined the Rebellion of Eltar. Both boys sided with Garron and Des about violence sometimes being necessary, which was proven when the Eltarian Government slaughtered the innocent Rebels at the peaceful protest. Vee had been more content to try things Vitella's way, but Jezzeff longed for bloodshed, and he was pleased when the direction of the Rebellion changed. For about a century and a half, Jezzeff was genuinely enjoying every moment of his life. He and Vee were closer than ever, and they had a sense of purpose as they worked with the Rebellion.
Then, unexpectedly, Jezzeff received another message from Zell.
You must rid yourself of your last obstacle, it said. The boy represents your childhood. You are no longer that boy. He cannot exist any longer. Do this and you shall finally prove how limitless your potential truly is. Incredible power shall be granted to you if you spill his blood. I believe in you, my dear boy. Do not fail me.
Jezzeff looked at Vee, asleep on the couch, and knew what he had to do. He didn't even hesitate before raising a sword and shoving it straight through Vee's chest. Vee awoke, his eyes going wide, but he was too wounded to fight back. He simply stared at Jezzeff with tears in his eyes.
"Apologies, my dearest friend," Jezzeff said with a bit of genuine regret. "I had to." He watched the life drain from Vee's eyes. Then, he sat beside him and wept, closing his best friend's eyes over so they couldn't stare at him accusingly anymore.
Jezzeff was rewarded for his final horrific betrayal with incredible powers. He realized Zell must have been holding some of his magic back until he proved he would truly do anything for it, but it all belonged to him now. "Nothing shall ever stop me again," he said with a smile. He proceeded to bury Vee in an empty field where he knew no one would ever find him. "Forgive me, Veevrant," he said softly. "Love is weakness, and you were the last thing holding me back."
Two towns away, Garron snapped out of a vision with a start. "Oh, dear," he mumbled. "That will not do at all... He is going to become a problem for us." He quickly called on his two new favorite recruits. Raffitty and Captain Smizek reported dutifully and waited for instructions from him. "Gentlemen... We have a situation," he began.
"What do you need us to do?" Raffitty asked.
"One of our own is out of control."
"Who is it?" Captain Smizek asked.
"It is Jezzeff, B'Bodian. He has murdered Veevrant tonight."
"Vee is dead?" Raffitty repeated in horror.
"Betrayed by his best friend? How did this happen?" Captain Smizek added.
"It seems our Jezzeff has been working for the Great Wizard for all of this time... He cannot be trusted. I have seen the future, and if left unchecked, he will destroy all of Eltar and perhaps other worlds as well. His potential for power is great, and unlike our dear Raffitty, whose gifts enable him to gain power at incredible rates as well, Jezzeff has no conscience to stop him from abusing his talents. He will pursue power and new abilities no matter who he must harm or even kill... Tonight proved that," Garron said. "I need the two of you to handle him before he gains even more power."
The boys nodded. They quickly left to complete their mission.
For all of his power, Jezzeff was vulnerable. He was too arrogant and it left him open to an attack from the last people he'd expected... Garron's "toddlers," as he called them. Raffitty sealed them in a room, magically locking it down so that Jezzeff couldn't just flee. Together they battled Jezzeff. He was incredibly gifted with a sword, and the boys soon realized they could not win in that sort of fight.
"We shall go down fighting if we must, Bob," Raffitty said. "With honor."
"With honor," Captain Smizek agreed.
The battle was intense. Just when it looked like they might get the upper hand, Jezzeff impaled Raffitty with his sword. Raffitty began bleeding far too quickly. "Raff!" Captain Smizek screamed. He did the one thing he knew Jezzeff would not see coming. He switched tactics, throwing down his sword and casting a powerful spell.
"You... You have Sorcery?" Jezzeff asked in shock.
"I suppose you did not see that in one of your visions," Captain Smizek replied coldly. He strengthened his magic, knocking Jezzeff against the wall and trapping him there in mid-air. Knowing he had no other choice, he increased the attacking spell and watched as Jezzeff began to convulse. Seconds later, his chest exploded. He lay on the ground dead, and Captain Smizek took a deep breath. Then, he ran toward Raffitty.
"Raff... Raff, are you well?" He asked desperately. "Hold on, my friend... I have a healing potion." He poured it into Raffitty's mouth. Soon, his wounds began to rapidly heal.
"Bob..." Raffitty began. "Your magic is incredibly powerful. Why didn't you tell me you were a Sorcerer?"
"I am untrained. Most of my lessons ceased after my mother perished," Captain Smizek replied. "My father never allowed me to explore my magic. I am a soldier, Raff, to my very core. I do not often use more than the most basic of magic. Please tell no one of this."
"Your secrets shall always be safe with me, Bob... However, Garron will know what you did when he sees Jezzeff."
"Garron is different. I suspect he already knows what I can do."
"Indeed, B'Bodian," Garron said as he appeared. He was smiling. "You boys did well today. Thank you for taking the risk and using your magic to finish the task, B'Bodian. I shall clean up this mess and protect your secret. Go get something to eat. Raffitty needs to recover his strength, and you have earned a meal." Garron sent them on their way.
Staring at Jezzeff, Garron sensed an echo of anger. Some small shred of Zell from the past who must be wandering the time line was furious that his favorite follower had been killed. "It had to be done. Jezzeff was too dangerous. Zell would have realized that eventually and ended him himself," he said aloud. He shrugged and began to dispose of the evidence of Jezzeff's demise. For just a moment, Garron's mind was clear. He recalled the love he'd once had for three siblings who'd been kind to a scared, weak little boy. After a minute, he said, "That was for Sera, you bastard."
Satisfied that the man he now knew was responsible for the deaths of Serafine, Ash, and in some ways, even Daphne had met his end, Garron waved his hand over his corpse and watched it burn to nothing more than dust.