The Pale War

by An Average Fanfictioneer

When the Pale King awakens after the Radiance's defeat, he begins a campaign of utter domination against the world outside of Hallownest. As the "enlightenment" starts, a young human will have to make an alliance with an insect warrior to survive. Contains transformation elements. This is my first story so please R&R.

23. Chapter 20: Storming the White Palace

Chapter 20: Storming the White Palace

Please read the author's note at the end.

---

THE PALE KING

---

Hewas sat on the throne, focused on restraining himself.

Not His body, for it was too perfect for that, but instead what it now held within.

There was so much more of Him now, so much that he knew He should have taken hold of during his first, weaker reign.

No longer did He consider its' acquisition a sacrifice, for it was so clear how necessary it'd been. After all, as already the most powerful, he simply deserved this.

Yet he had to restrain all of it for now, keep it hidden still.

He was now very much aware of the prying eyes and foul intentions of another. A new usurper that'd come to His realm, one whose presence had not been easy to discover.

He was not aware of their shape just yet, but was certain they had arrived from the world above, which no doubt meant wishes of evil against His growing domain

Still, this imposer's apparent skill in hiding themselves was of no matter.

He was so much beyond something mere like that now.

Of course, none knew yet. Not his loyal subjects, nor any enemies to his pale light, he had made sure of that.

For He wished to reveal it in a properly grand way.

By using it to utterly destroy and drain the intruder when they inevitably came for Him, along with any misguided humans accompanying them.

After that, His strengthwould truly be unmatched, even to the sentries marching for his domain.

He would then make haste to bring the same horrible fate to the barbarian that had corrupted Hornet.

For now, however, the Pale Wyrm sat, waiting.

---

MAX

---

The hornet walked out of the queen Hiveling's corridor with his friend. He was pretty sure their small meeting with her could've been called a success, even though it had probably been a little long for the tiny bit of time they had. Keeping a quick pace, the two bugs were now headed to the good old Westernmost hall, where General Juss was probably already waiting, ready for their attack on the king.

But Max didn't wish to think about that just yet. For at least a few more minutes, he felt it needed to reflect on their brief, nice conversation with Vespa and the things she'd been able to tell them, some of which really did calm the worries he had, though some still remained. Despite it, the hornet felt a bit annoyed at how little time there'd been, partly blaming it on himself. The General had been right, he'd cleaned himself for far too long (even though his friend's version of 'clean' had also played a bit of a role in that).

At the very least, it'd helped him to cool off from the hunt.

Following the human's exit from the bathing chamber, Hornet and Max had quickly gotten their gear and gone as well, though not before sharing a pleasant moment in the doorway, as the warrior had softly thanked him for the meat he'd shared with her from the prey. Though a moment after, she'd practically forced him to promise that he never scared her again, to which he'd, of course, agreed. Making her scared still made him feel bad. Still, right after, they had set off for the queen.

In the course of the last few days, Max had really started to memorize the various halls and routes of the Hive. So when they had walked up to the queen's spot this time, Hornet hadn't even had to 'lead' him anymore. Just like right now, their step had been quick. They'd hurried past the midday buzz of the workers and had fairly soon entered the long tunnel leading to the monarch.

Having entered the royal hall, or at least the walkway overlooking it, the two bugs had been greeted by the transparent figure of Vespa, who'd turned towards them with surprise.

"Hornet, Max, whatever are you here for," the ghost had asked. "You two are aware that you're meant to be off quite soon already?"

"Don't worry, Vespa, we are," Hornet had affirmed. "We simply wished to speak of something before our departure. If it's alright with you, that is?"

Vespa had smiled. "Of course it is alright with me," she had said, "I am glad to be of any help. Although it confuses me that you didn't come here slightly before." Her asking glance had wandered towards Max.

"Yeah, about that," the hornet had spoken up, still feeling a bit embarrassed from it. "We went down to the bathing chambers to get me cleaned up after we'd gotten back. We were a bit spent from the hunt and I guess I took too long." He'd looked at the warrior, who'd nodded in agreement.

"Oh, I understand," the royal Hiveling had replied, knowingly smiling at him, before adding: "I must admit that the Weavers' sense of perfection has even surprised me at times."

At this, the warrior had huffed. "There's nothing wrong with cleanliness," she'd said, even sounding a bit offended. "You were covered in blood, Max." Her tone had then become a bit more reserved. "Though I confess that it may have been keeping us from doing more important things."

"Yes, it may've, but it also allowed both of you a proper rest," the queen had then stated, getting confused looks from the two younger bugs, " After all, a hunt is still not the simplest undertaking, especially for you, Max, as isn't what you two shall shortly be taking part in." She'd paused, sighing deeply, before looking up at them again. "But I do believe we've strayed rather far from our subject. What was it that you wished to speak of?"

"Well," Max spoke, "it's actually got to do with our hunt."

The ghostly bug's eyes had widened slightly, as she said: "Oh, I certainly hope it went well, considering what decided to return with you."

"Don't worry, Vespa, we managed to avoid those aspids for the most part," the female had affirmed, beaming. "And the hunt itself was successful as well, for us both even." She'd then sent a short glance at the hornet, her expression becoming more solemn.
"However, when Max was facing his prey, something happened with him. The creature struggled back and- and in response he charged and furiously slaughtered it in an absolutely beastly fashion." She had paused, catching her breath. "Have you any clue what it could've been? I- we're worried that it's something serious."

Max had nodded silently, as the concern on the Hiveling's face had grown even stronger. "Oh my. I am not quite sure of that, but-," she'd said, before looking at him. "Max, would you mind telling me exactly what happened?"

"It's no problem. I want answers too," the hornet had replied, sighing. "After Hornet'd chased my boofly to slam into the ground beside me, I went for the kill. But then it started flailing and kicking and it knocked me down hard. And I really don't know why, but that made me enraged at it, even more when the damned thing tried to get away. So I charged and just slashed until it was dead. Only noticed how much damage I'd done after the rush had gone." Max had paused, shooting a glance at his friend. "I- It even scared Hornet."

When he'd looked back, the concern in Vespa's gaze had been joined by surprise. "Is this true, Hornet?"

"I- no-," the warrior had tried to protest, before stopping and sullenly admitting: "Yes, yes it did. Just the way he blindly pounded that boofly with his nail, it almost reminded me of the gardens' Mantises." Her tone had become pleading. "Please, Vespa, let us know if you know what this may have been. Could it happen again?"

"Hmm. I do not believe you should fear that for now," the spectral queen had replied, her tone becoming a bit lighter, "however, what you did is still quite surprising, Max."

The hornet's eyes had widened. "Huh? You know what it is," he'd asked, getting a definite nod from the Hiveling.

"Indeed, I do, although not very closely," she'd spoken, before explaining: "What you experienced was one of the hornet tribe's, let us say, less'appealing' attributes. To my knowledge, it was one of their oldest survival tactics, originating a time where most bugs we'd call 'civilized' today were only slightly above common beasts. Ever militant as they were, our cousins could enter into states of pure rage and ferocity when a battle or hunt was not going in their favor. That is what I believe happened to you as well, Max."

There'd been a pause, as Max had nodded, the picture slightly clearer to him. "Okay, I think I understand," he'd then said, "but why'd it spring up in me. I didn't even know about it, just got hit really hard."

"Of that, I am sadly not certain," Vespa had responded. "From what I've managed to gather of it, the hornets still had to allow this rage to manifest. I can only imagine that what you experienced could have been something other adolescents of your tribe had to go through. If that is the case, then it should hopefully not happen again."

She'd smiled warmly at the hornet, as he'd looked back at her in surprise, realization slowly starting to settle in. "So It's not going to, uh, 'manifest anymore." A smirk had slowly creeped onto his face and he had glanced back at Hornet, who'd also looked relieved.

"Let us hope, yes," the monarch had affirmed, her tone becoming slightly more serious, "unless you learn a way to allow it, if you so wish."

"He won't," the warrior had suddenly spoken up, her voice raised. "Max, please, you know what this rush made you like. It isn't something we'd need."

The hornet had looked at his friend, feeling weirdly torn for a moment, before her pleading expression had quickly made up his mind. "Of course. I promised you, didn't I," he'd stated, smirking.

Hornet's eyes had widened, pink appearing under them. "Well, it wasn't exactly that," she had said, the surprise becoming that nice content smile again, "though I'm glad you understand."

She'd then faced the Hiveling. "This probably won't be enough, but thank you, Vespa, for the relief."

"It shall and you both are very welcome," the spirit had happily replied. "But I think it was best if you got going soon now. Time is only getting shorter and some of my soldiers are already wondering when you're coming."

The sudden realization had hit the young bugs, as they'd quickly shot into the corridor entrance. Before leaving, however, both had turned back at the queen, saying their goodbyes, in addition to thanking her again.

"Again, you're welcome. Goodbye," Vespa'd called, before saying: "And the best of luck as well. What you'll be doing now still shan't be the easiest. Please, give it your all. I want you to return safe."

"We shall. I'll make sure of it," Hornet had confidently replied, to which the male had smiled.

A moment later, the two had finally exited the royal hall proper.

---

Once again heading down the familiar and busy corridors with his friend, Max felt relieved that he was okay. Even though the queen hadn't entirely been sure of what she'd told them, something in his mind suggested that it was indeed so. However ferocious his rage had been, other hornets his age had probably gone through something similar. Though hopefully only once. From his kind or not, it'd still been savage enough to scare Hornet.

Max shot a look towards the female, his face warm. That was something he didn't ever want to do again.

He also hoped they wouldn't be late. Their pace was still a walk and if the Hivelings were already waiting, then the 'thirty' the General had given them would definitely be over soon. Thankfully, the hallway they were in was already pretty close to the western hall. They only had a little more to go. Only a little more until their attack against the Pale King.

And the hornet couldn't help feeling confident. After all, everyone else seemed to be, even Hornet. Despite that, he understood it wasn't going to be easy either, mainly for him. The king and his palace were definitely going to be guarded, perhaps even by the metallic white things. Whatever plan the General had, he hoped it would go well. It had to, so Hornet and he could give him what he deserved, set things right.

Seeing a bit more light ahead, Max looked over the flying workers to see the entrance to the Hive's border hall. They were almost there. He looked at his friend again, noticing she seemed a bit distant. Smirking, he softly nudged her side, to which the warrior glanced back, before coming to a stop.

"Hey, is something wrong," the hornet asked, surprised, halting his step as well.

The female shook her head. "No, nothing serious," she replied with a small sigh, looking ahead. "I- I simply fell back to thinking of what's to come after our victory."

"Oh, that," Max muttered. Hunting and the things after it had almost made him forgot about the harsh responsibility, which the warrior was going to have to deal with. He did feel very sorry for her, hoping he'd be able to help, but this really wasn't the best time anymore. "Right now, though?"

"I know. I should've kept myself from doing so," Hornet said with a guilty look. "And there's no point to it anyway. We've nearly reached the hyu-man."

"Yeah," the male agreed, "so please try to push those thoughts back. We kinda have to go."

The warrior nodded, sighing again. "You're right. We can't leave him undefeated." She turned back towards the lit end of the corridor, shaking herself. "No matter the responsibility I'll be handed."

---

Getting back to their earlier pace, the two finally made their way into the spacious hall. Besides the workers' usual commotion, Max could immediately spot the large gathering of larger Hivelings right next to the raised ledge leading to the exit. While most of the soldiers hovered idly, a few were moving their heads around, seemingly looking for something, whom the hornet was pretty sure he knew was.

He was about to raise his hand, before one of the stocky bugs already spotted them, her feelers standing up alert. She quickly turned around, saying something, and a moment later, General Juss appeared on the ledge, unmasked. Instead of shouting anything, the human raised his hand, motioning for the two hunters to come up.

Approaching the familiar rough slope, Hornet looked towards Max, smiling uneasily, to which he responded with a reassuring smirk.

Just like yesterday, the climb didn't take very long for the two and they soon reached the ledge, pulling themselves up. Getting to his feet, the hornet was met with the human, his arms folded, as he sternly glared at them.

"I take it you two have your things sorted out," he spoke. "You were almost late."

"Yeah, Sir, I'm pretty sure we do," Max replied, nodding "Though sorry for taking so long."

"Calm down, boy, I said you almost didn't make it," the General stated, before turning his gaze towards the warrior. "I trust you are set as well, Hornet?"

"For this, without a doubt," the female affirmed, her voice having gained new confidence. "Still, I think I'd prefer if we just got it over with. When shall we be heading off, hyu-man?

"I'm quite sure we all would," the human agreed. "And we are moving out fairly soon." He faced the hornet again, a minuscule smirk visible. "However, I believe they deserve some time to speak to you before that." He motioned towards the tunnel behind him with a shoulder. "Try to keep it short, though."

Max's eyes widened, as he finally caught the nearby scent of family, long overdue for a predator like him. A moment later, Juss moved to the side, letting him clearly see his uncle leaning against the wax tunnel wall further in and looking towards them, smiling. However, the human wasn't alone, as nested on top of his head was a familiar ribbon-wearing worker.

"Hey, kid, thought you were getting away without saying goodbye again," Adrian loudly asked, waving for him to come closer, which the hornet definitely wasn't going to refuse.

He quickly walked next to the two, saying: "Nah, I didn't expect you'd drag yourself up here just for this, uncle."

"Well, why wouldn't I," Adrian replied, raising an eyebrow. "Max, even I know how important this attack's going to be, dangerous too. I want to support you and Hornet, understand?" Max nodded, as the human's smile grew again. "Besides," he chuckled, glancing at the ledge, "getting up here is one hell of a workout. And look who I even met here." He pointed at the Hiveling sitting above, who raised a foreleg to wave.

"I figured it would only be proper to send my friends and sisters off," she spoke, hovering closer to him "and to wish you all good luck."

"Heh, thanks," the hornet said, getting a happy smile from the round bug.

"I'd like to thank you as well, Apisia," Hornet's voice suddenly added. Looking aside, Max saw her coming over, stopping right beside him. "Although I do hope there won't be much need for your talents today," she spoke, to which the healer nodded, her happy expression falling off a bit.

"And how are you, Hornet," the human asked with clear sympathy in his voice, looking towards the warrior. "You doing okay?"

"Yes, Adrian, I'm feeling well," she replied firmly, a small smile visible on her face "And I am sure our attack will be beyond decisive."

"That's great," Max's uncle spoke, "I'm sure you'll do amazing out there." He then leaned slightly closer to her, gaining a bit of a frown. "Though I'd like if you made sure Max stayed safe. His handling of that, uh, nail is still a bit reckless and I know it could get heated for you three."

"Hey," the hornet in question called out, indignant, "I take care of myself pretty well already."

"Of course I shall, he's my friend," his friend replied. She looked towards him with a friendly smirk. "Besides, Max, you've only been on a single hunt. Your skills are still far from refined. I'll be at your side, ready to lend a hand."

Despite how patronizing it felt, Max couldn't help, but smile back at her, his face a bit flushed "And I'll make sure to do the same for you, Hornet," he then countered, hoping the blush was faint. The female's eyes widened, as did her grin. She gave a confident nod, which the hornet mirrored, to the amusement of Adrian, who let out another chuckle.

"Well, it seems you four have run out of things to say," the General suddenly spoke from the ledge, immediately drawing both young bug's attention. "Hornet, Max, time's up. Get back over here."

As his friend turned around and went, Max shot Adrian a slightly sorry look.

"Don't you worry," his uncle replied, "we'll talk later. Now go, save the world." The hornet nodded, before also heading back out of the shaded tunnel.

He stopped in front of the human, who then said: "Everything's in order. Now I'm simply going to rally the Hivelings and we'll be ready to take our leave."

"If I may, hyu-man," Hornet spoke up, "you've actually yet to tell us of your plan." This made Max's expression become questioning as well. His friend was right. They were in the dark about that.

"I shall brief you on the finer details on the way," the General replied. "For now, simply know that you'll be with me. Now-" He turned around to face the Hive soldiers hovering around the ledge, his voice much louder "-I require that all of you direct your attention to me." The large Hivelings did as ordered, as Max and his friend listened as well.

Apparently satisfied, Juss then unsheathed his nai- sword, placing its tip on the ground. "Very well," he began, keeping the loud tone. "My dear friends and allies of the Hive. As you've probably understood, today marks an important occasion for all of us, bug and human. Only mere days ago, your tribe was reawakened from ages long sleep and given a future again. Now, you are being called to defend it for all of Hallownest!"

The General paused for a moment.

"The Pale King has used the weakness left by the Infection to force his new rule on the other tribes, with yours no doubt in danger as well. His constructs have even attacked my kind's land on the surface. However, his power is yet to fully regrow and he is still vulnerable. That gives us opportunity and we shall make use of it. Your sisters have taught you the plan already, now we put it to work. We are going to put an end to his conquest!"

He raised his sword in the air, shouting: "For peace and a better tomorrow! Forwards!" This was met with excited buzzing from the soldiers and even some workers who'd stopped to listen. Max himself thought the speech had been a bit sappy, but smiled along, since even Hornet looked motivated. The human placed his weapon back in its sheath, before turning around and looking at the young bugs.

"I'm in front. You two, behind me," he coolly ordered, before adding with a little more emotion: "Let's go get this over with." He pushed past the two, starting to head towards the exit.

The warrior and hornet quickly turned to follow, accompanied by the low buzzing of the Hivelings behind them. They passed Adrian and Apisia, who both raised their respective forelimbs. Max smiled, waving back for a few moments, then looking forwards again, taking deep breaths. Here they went.

As the yellow light from the Hive started to dim, he decided to glance towards his friend, only to find her staring back at him with an uncertain, yet hopeful expression. Despite feeling along the same lines, the hornet gave a confident smirk, which managed to get the same out of her. They nodded at each other in unison again, before the male was forced to turn his attention back in front of him. They were almost out and the ground had become rocky.

However, some of his thoughts remained with Hornet, the admirationhe felt for her not leaving him alone. Making her confident made him happy, almost too much so. Thankfully, the cold air already reaching his face helped with that a bit. He'd promised himself he'd find a good way to deal with these feelings when things had calmed down and he was gonna stick by it. Especially, since it seemed those things would calm down pretty soon.

So, shaking his head, the hornet brought himself to fully focus on the dark cave up ahead, his eyes quickly adjusting. After all, they really did have to get this over and done with. Even if this battle would be tough, stopping that monster was going to be worth it.

---

JUSS

---

Lembit walked out of the tunnel, stopping to take a breath of the surrounding fresh air. He unlatched his mask and put it on, its night vision activating in an instant. There wouldn't've been a real need for it were he alone, but he figured going without would have alarmed the others. The human looked around the now green-tinted cavern, before continuing further into it, this time following the path that lead towards the entrance of this Ancient Basin, down in which stood their foe's palace.

The higher being in question had continued keeping his presence completely hidden the entire night and morning, as the human still couldn't feel the slightest hint of it, even when he'd tried reaching out again. While the Pale King could've simply been scared of the military that he hoped was getting close above, Lembit worried that he had been discovered, or at least the traces he'd left when rushing to the White Lady yesterday. Damn perfectionist.

Fortunately, even if it was true, it didn't really matter anymore, as their assault was already in motion.

It was time to put an end to his little Pale War.

Keeping a firm pace forward, the General then shot a quick glance back at his two young companions, who were closely following behind. Knowing it was covered by the mask, he allowed himself a smile. Both of them looked much better than yesterday night, Hornet especially. It was clear that the hunt had been a good idea, having given her the time and place to rebuild confidence and Max a proper opportunity for a first kill. Unexpected method aside, it'd proved him just a little more capable, even if it had also alarmed his uncle. It was just another thing Adrian had to get used to.

Pushing the warmer feelings aside, he leaped across the wide gaps in the road, hearing the princess and hornet jump as well. There was no real reason to be discreet or stealthy with their advance yet, considering the size of their group and most of its members. As dismissive as it might've sounded, the Hivelings were going to make very good distractions. Even if an unlucky guard stumbled upon them, he'd have quickly been taken care of.

However, it seemed no poor sentry patrol would lose their life just yet. The group made its way through a narrower passage, passing into the next cavern, which was also vacant. Glancing around, Lembit immediately saw the wide metal platform bearing Hallownest's signature style of engraving and sharp tips, which he figured must've been the 'tram stop' the Hiveling tacticians had told him about, though there was no vehicle currently present. The soldier wordlessly pointed it out to his companions, before quickly heading for it himself.

Stopping on the platform, the human noted the flat, artificial-looking lower area it extended over, then looked up to see a single long metal rail lead forward from beside the stop to the carved back wall of the cave, which had a suspicious gap running down the middle. That hadn't been mentioned to him. He turned around just as the last few Hiveling soldiers squeezed themselves through the passage. Hornet and Max stood at the edge of the drop, looking at him, as the latter seemed to whisper something that neither Lembit nor his mask managed to pick up.

There wasn't silence for long, as he then spoke, voice garbled by the mask like usual: "Hornet, come here." The young warrior's eyes widened attentively at that, as she too stepped onto the platform.

"Yes, what is it," she asked, her thin weapon swaying idly.

"Do you know how we're to open that," the General replied with another question, pointing at the large circular piece of the wall where the monorail led to. It was obviously a gate. "I'm sorry, but this wasn't something I was told we'd have to deal with."

"What?" Hornet's eyes narrowed. "Oh, the tramgate," she spoke, glancing towards the closed tunnel. "I do not know of their inner workings, but they only open when a tram is in motion. I imagine any control must occur from there."

"Hmm, so you know no other way," Lembit said, glaring at the 'tramgate' himself. This could've been a problem. There didn't seem to be any other passages from this station cave either, or at least any wide enough for their bigger allies to get through.

"Indeed, unfortunately" the bug stated coolly, looking at him, before her tone became slightly demanding. "In truth, hyu-man, I would prefer if you spoke to us of the plan for our our approach now." She shot a short glance towards Max. "I believe we both would."

"Yeah, uh, Sir, that'd actually be nice," the hornet agreed.

He sighed. They had the right and there was no reason to postpone it anyway. Still, Hornet seemed to have forgotten her true age again. "Very well, we'll discuss here," he agreed with a strict voice, staring down at the warrior with his arms crossed, "though I'd also prefer if you were mindful of how you spoke to me,Hornet."

Despite being covered, his stare still appeared to work, as the warrior girl's eyes widened again with what he figured was realization. "Certainly, hyu-man. I apologize," she hastily said, though not without mild annoyance in her voice, which got a hidden smirk out Lembit. Dominance had been asserted once again.

"Very well, let's make this quick, then," he said, waving at Max to come closer. The hornet quickly obeyed, walking onto the platform as well, looking towards him. The human shot a glance at the Hivelings, assuring: "You all know this, you don't have to listen." He then faced his younger companions again, arms still crossed.

"My- our plan, as it was, was to make it to the Ancient Basin together. Once there, we'd split into two groups. The majority of the Hivelings would enter the Palace Grounds through the main corridors and cause a diversion at the gate." He paused shortly. "Us three would enter the Grounds through a smaller passage above the chasm, where we'd be flown in unnoticed by a soldier. It'd have been that simple."

Lembit huffed, glaring at the closed tunnel. "However, this is in our way now," he then added irately, scanning it over and considering their options. He may've actually been able to strong-arm the gate, but that would've meant prematurely revealing some things his little platoon had no reason to know about yet.

"Yeah, probably can't open that," Max spoke up, "but there's still the small tunnel, we could try using that somehow." At that, the General's eyes widened, as he turned towards him.

"What tunnel," he asked.

"Over there, Hornet called it some kinda maintenance tunnel," the changed boy replied, pointing beneath the carved gate, where the man started making out a darker area. "It was just big enough for the two of us, though maybe you too, Sir."

Lembit muttered something akin a 'thanks', his eyes narrowed at the spot, where he could start making out the opening. For a moment, he blamed himself for missing something like this, then shifted it to his mask's NV. Though the model gave clearer view than most other military goggles, there was still a little bit of unavoidable fuzziness. Yeah, that must've been the reason.

Still, the rough-looking tunnel did look big enough for him to get through. And that opened another possibility.

"Max, that is a damn good idea," he said, looking back at the two hunters. "We could get through there-"

"-And open the bigger gate if the tram's on the other side," the hornet excitedly finished, which he decided not to reprimand. He caught on quick, that wasn't bad.

"It most likely shall be, Max. The Pale King had to return from his deed in some manner," Hornet added in a sullen tone, probably frowning. She went to the far edge of the platform, glancing back. "So, shall we go?"

"Yes, I'll join you right away," the General replied, facing the hovering soldiers and loudly saying: "This will most likely take some time. You will have to wait there." The Hivelings nodded silently, prompting him to strictly add: "And while we're gone, I want one of you to let your sisters know that I'm not happy about not knowing of this." He pointed at the tunnel gate, as the round bugs looked guilty, a few nodding again.

Satisfied, Lembit turned away, before dropping down onto the flat ground below, where Max and Hornet were already waiting. The trio headed straight for the small passage in the wall.

The General stopped in front of it. "I'm going first. Hornet, you're in the back. Be careful with your blade" he ordered, getting nods from both young bugs, though with an audible huff of annoyance from the warrior. Ignoring it, he squeezed himself into the rough opening, then moved a bit further in, letting the hornet and warrior princess enter as well. After a moment, they began heading down the tunnel.

---

Going forward, Lembit kept one hand against the rock, while holding the other near his holster, since there was definitely not enough space to draw the sword. Their overall pace wasn't very quick. He had to walk carefully, taking care not to stumble on the claustrophobic cave's extremely rough floor and walls, which almost made it appear natural, bringing back some memories, most of them not very good.

It didn't sound easy for his companions either. While Hornet seemed to have less of a problem staying on her feet, obviously thanks to her trained step, the same couldn't be said for Max, who was staggering an almost dangerous amount.

"Crawling through here's much harder when you're boxed in like this," the young hornet uneasily commented, audibly skipping over a jagged spot on the ground.

"It is simply another thing to practice, Max. Stay strong" the warrior encouraged from the back, before interestingly adding: "I believe in you."

"Alright, Hornet, I'll try," Max replied, his voice suddenly firmer. If what Lembit still suspected was true, it was even slightly adorable. However, it also didn't fit the situation.

"Please try to focus less on chatter and more on moving forward," he spoke sternly, glaring at them for a moment, which got the required effect.

Their journey through the tunnel continued for some time. Nobody said anything else, though all three were starting to huff for breath, Lembit doing his best to conceal it. Thankfully, he soon noticed a bit of light, which shone in the middle of the darkness and was getting larger. The slight draft on his neck was also a good sign.

And he wasn't the only one to see, as Hornet then spoke up: "There is light up ahead. We'll be out soon"

"Ugh, yes, finally," Max said, sounding relieved, "that's one annoying crawl over."

"Not quite yet, we've still a section of the tunnel to cover," the General reminded, to which he heard a disappointed groan. "Calm down, boy. From what you told, you two came through here just fine yesterday."

"Yeah, it didn't feel this long then, though," the hornet replied. "I guess we were still excited to be outside."

"Uh, we were indeed. Although that changed quite fast, didn't it," Hornet spoke with slight sulk, as an equally sullen agreeing hum was heard from the male, along with the short shuffle of a nod.

They fell silent again. However, it didn't last very long anymore, since not even a minute later, Lembit could fully see the tunnel's exit hole. Moments later, his companions sighted it as well, both audibly sighing with relief. They probably shouldn't've, considering it was only going to get harder from there.

Finally reaching the opening, they came to a stop, as the General looked out into the lit cave, his night vision shutting off. He took note of the surrounding rocky ground, before focusing on the larger platform ahead, at the side of which hung what must've been the tram. He could also see a guard wielding a long spear beside it.

"What do you see, hyu-man," the warrior asked. "Is the tram here?"

"Positive," the human replied militaristically, "but there's also at least one sentry on the platform. We'll have to sneak up."

"That shouldn't be hard," said Max. "There was a lot to use as cover. Let's go."

The soldier nodded, though the overconfidence irked him a bit. "Understood," he spoke, glancing back and bringing his tone down. "So stay quiet and focus. Now follow me."

Not waiting for an answer, he slipped out of the tunnel. Keeping his head down, he quickly made it for a nearby wide rock, crouching behind it, as the young warriors joined him. The human peeked over the stone and towards the raised metal floor, where the enemy bug was facing directly away from them, idly leaning on his lance.

A short look at his companions got firm, ready nods, prompting him to begin leading their silent way closer. A couple of rocks later, the trio reached the platform's side. The sentry was standing quite close, though not dangerously near. The hornet sent a questioning look, nudging towards the oblivious bug above. The soldier responded by sliding a finger across his neck, to which the boy gave a much more hesitant nod.

"Hyu-man, are you certain there is only one sentry," Hornet then asked in a low whisper, her eyes warily pointed upwards, which made the General's widen slightly behind the mask. He shook his head, before carefully peeking over the edge. The warrior had been rightfully cautious, as he spotted another guard beside the gleaming fence.

The human crouched down and looked at her again, nodding and bringing up two fingers. "We'll need to kill both," he spoke just as quietly.

"Understood. I shall strike when you do," the bug girl confidently replied, starting to turn around. However, Lembit had gotten a different idea.

"No," he said almost too loudly, making Hornet stop and glance back, confused. "Max will do it," he continued darkly, looking towards the surprised hornet, who raised a claw-finger to protest. "You will. That's an order." The kid may've gotten a kill during the hunt, but it hadn't fully been him in control. Here, he would.

Max gave another small nod, then turned and snuck past Hornet to the platform corner. "Get into a good position. Attack when I do, okay," the soldier spoke, his tone a bit lighter. The boy glanced back at him and the warrior for a moment, before going out of their view, leaving the latter looking at the human with what he guessed was an irate look.

"You know he needs to," he whispered harshly, to which she huffed, giving an annoyed nod.

Facing away from her with a sigh, Lembit then rose and began slowly approaching where the closest guard stood, bringing out his knife. He got below the bug and peeked up onto the platform. The other sentry didn't look very alert either, also leaning onto his weapon and lazily glancing around, unaware of the white horns sticking out of the edge behind him. Max looked to be in position.

The General carefully raised his free hand, making the 'okay' symbol. A few moments later, the hornet responded with a clear, but slightly shaky thumb up. They were set.

Without wasting any more time, the human gripped his blade even harder and used the other arm to pull himself up to the platform, pushing the sentry, who let out a surprised and angry yelp. Not allowing him a chance to recover, he firmly grabbed the enemy's waist, before quickly bringing the knife up to the neck. However strong his shell was, it was a clean slice through.

As dark orange stained his gloves, Lembit suddenly heard struggling come from Max and the other guard. He dropped the limp bug and flipped his blade, ready to throw it just in case. Just as he looked ahead, however, the hornet thrust his nail forward. Straight through the sentry's midsection. He stood stiff for a moment, before slumping over, dead.

Breathing heavily, Max pulled his nail out of the body and rested it against the floor. "Wow. I- I did it," he said, looking back at Lembit, as Hornet too climbed onto the platform beside him.

"Well done, Max," she called happily, approaching him, "that was a fair kill." She paused, her tone gaining a bit of concern. "Th- Though that was really you, wasn't it?"

"Ye- Yeah, Hornet, fully me," the hornet replied, scratching the back his head. "Thanks."

"Good, good," the human commended, quite proud himself, "you were yourself. Though try to be a bit less messy with stealthin the future." At that, the boy glanced down at the bloodied, curled up guard on the floor, then at his stained nail.

"Okay, I'll try that," he agreed, before looking towards the tram. "So, we open the gate now, right?"

"Well, what else did we come ahead for," the General asked back, starting towards it, his companions following.

The three stepped into the ornate vehicle. As Max and Hornet curiously looked around, Lembit quickly focused on the control panel at the tram's front end. He walked up to the 'console', eyeing the various buttons on it. The thing looked surprisingly advanced for what he'd seen of the bugs this far.

Still, he needed to be careful with it, since the wrong button would've made the actual tram move and none of them seemed to have any indication of what they were for, save for the largest, which was glowing brightly. Not wanting to risk it, however, the General instead decided to try the two smaller ones beside it. Gut instinct was impractical, but sometimes needed.

"Come over here, you two," he called, glancing at the hornet and warrior, who quickly approached.

"What is it, hyu-man," Hornet asked, sending a glance at the panel. "Is something the matter with the tram machinery?"

"Yeah, you know how to work this thing, don't you," Max added.

"I do hope so," Lembit replied, "but we'll just have to see about that. I want you to look ahead, though be ready to get out if something goes wrong."

The two bugs nodded firmly, to which he pressed down on both buttons. Almost immediately, a low rumble became audible, as the three peered through the front window, all a bit on edge. A moment later, they saw as the large gates ahead start to slide open, while the tram stayed in place.

They stood silent for a few seconds, looking at the passage. "It worked," Max then deadpanned, though with clear relief in his voice. "Nice."

"At least partly, yes," the human agreed, as the rumbling died down. "Let's see if on the other gate as well."

"It did," Hornet said, "look." She pointed at the dark tunnel, where Lembit could indeed catch the round flying figures of Hivelings already emerging.

"Well," he stated, "let's carry on, then."

---

The smaller party exited the tram just as the first Hive soldiers reached the platform. The big striped bugs waved (perhaps a bit too) excitedly at Lembit and his companions, receiving a much calmer one from the human. After all of them had caught up, the small platoon set course for the trap door leading to the Ancient Basin. They quickly gathered around the wide, decorated opening, gazing down into the black-stoned cavern.

"Everyone, stay behind me until we reach the bottom, alright? There may still be surprises," the human ordered loudly, getting agreeing murmurs from the Hivelings. He glanced at his two charges, who looked back with what was definitely confidence, before dropping onto the dark ground below. He then started climbing further down into the multi-leveled cave, the others following from above.

It was darker here, though not enough for his mask to turn on again. Despite it, the distant howl of the wind, along with the cave's strange looking dark rock created a tone of eeriness. The stone had clearly not formed naturally, though it didn't feel like the king either, but something much older. Thankfully, it at least seemed there weren't any more of the former's sentries around.

Lucky them.

After a bit more of steep descent, the human reached the bottom 'floor' of the cave, with the passage to the Palace Grounds' main entrance visible ahead. Moments later, he was joined by the kids, one of them visibly more winded than the other.

"Whew," Max breathed, leaning on the wall. "Hornet, you really dragged us both up that?"

"Indeed," the warrior answered. "I needed to bring you to the Hive somehow."

"Heh, then it's just another thing I've to be grateful to you for," the boy spoke back. "Thanks."

"Please, Max, you mustn't," the other bug replied, "If I hadn't we would've both been killed." The hornet started to say something else, before being stopped by Lembit.

"And yet here you both are again, well and ready," he said in a serious tone, "so leave the reminiscing for later and focus." He faced the soldiers hovering above them. "We're splitting up now. Most of you know your role. Just remember to wait until we're in position, am I clear?" The Hivelings nodded in unison, looking properly serious.

"Good," the General said, before motioning to the largest in the crowd. "Now, you were to fly us to the palace. Stinger, was it?" Max let out a quiet chuckle, swiftly silenced by a soft jab from Hornet.

"Yes, is my name," the chubby bug growled.

"Well met," the human continued. "Ladies, gentlebug," he sent a masked glare at the hornet, "let's go finish this mess."

While the majority of Hivelings flew to the passage, the group of four climbed back up. As was planned, however, they ascended only for a short distance, before heading towards a passage slightly off the Basin's main 'road'. Their newest companion buzzed through first, fortunately able to squeeze herself through the narrower space, followed by the rest of the squad. The tunnel wasn't long, its brightly lit other end visible from the entrance.

Not soon after, they had already reached it. Stinger flew out of the way, revealing the overhang outside. Max exited next, hastily stepping onto the ledge, prompting Hornet to do the same. Smirking, the General walked after them, stopping behind the young warriors, who'd quickly come to a halt, audibly gasping. Even Lembit's eyes widened, as he quickly slid his mask off to get a clearer view of the palace ahead. The sketches hadn't done the glowing structure justice, it was absolutely massive.

Nonetheless, they hadn't come simply to sightsee. The human put his mask back on and looked down to see the soldiers hovering low at the front of the wide bridge, one of them looking up at him with her foreleg raised, ready to take the order. He sighed, before waving back, making the entire force of Hivelings liven up. Buzzing angrily, they flew towards the palace gate.

The attack had begun. It was time to get this son of a bitch.

---

HORNET

---

Although the ledge was quite high up, the sight of the White Palace was still imposing, especially now that it seemed to gleam even brighter than it had when she'd last seen it. Despite that, Hornet forced herself to shake away the awe. There was a false god inside of that palace, one that needed to meet its end, regardless of the pain she'd face from it.

"Max," she spoke, giving her friend a light nudge in the side and bringing him out of his stupor as well.

"Ye- Yes," the hornet replied, looking back, "I'm here." He glanced at the palace, nervously saying: "It's still so big, though."

"I know, but that shan't stop us," the warrior encouraged. "We'll find him and kill him."

"Yeah, together," Max said, smiling at her and essentially forcing her to reply with the same, although she didn't mind at all. "Now, when's that diversion gonna start, Sir?"

"It already has," the hyu-man's distorted voice said from behind them, "take a look at the gate and prepare yourselves. We'll be up next."

Just as he'd said it, the sounds of battle finally reached Hornet, causing her to gaze down at the palace's entrance, where, indeed, the swarm of Hivelings were fiercely engaged with the king's white constructs, more of whom were already coming to reinforce.

"It doesn't seem like they'll be a match for these monsters for long," she said, looking back at her companions. "We should hurry."

"Right beside you," Max agreed, "so how exactly do we fly across." The three ground-bound warriors turned towards Stinger (whose name was definitely not funny), who had huddled beside the ledge to remain out of sight.

"Like said, I carry you across," the Hiveling growled in her deep tone, before pointing at Hornet and Max. "You two, I will take on my back. Human, you, I carry under." She raised her forelegs.

"Perfectly understood," Yuss replied, his voice a tad hesitant. "Well, let's get on. Or under, rather."

The large Hive soldier nodded, before moving slightly lower, allowing the warrior and her friend to mount her backside, the latter doing so much more uneasily.

"You sure you'll be able to carry all of us," the latter asked beside Hornet, grasping onto the brown mane.

"I'm not weak, hatchling," Stinger replied shortly, leaning slightly forward. She rose up to take hold of the hyu-man. Moments later, she took off.

Although she had no doubt of the Hiveling's strength, Hornet still felt the need to remind herself not to look down, since even the palace's light wasn't a match for the Abyss below. She couldn't have imagined how the General was faring. About halfway to the looming white wall, she noticed a slight tremble in her friend's hand, which she sought to fix by grasping it with her own.

A fairly short time later, Stinger finally came to halt, hovering at the palace's glowing side. Not waiting by for an order, Max and Hornet both leaped off her, latching onto the gleaming wall. Looking down, the warrior saw the General do the same.

"How do you mean us to enter the palace, hyu-man," she called to him.

"Through a window, of course," the soldier loudly replied, pointing at what she saw was an opening. Having shown it to the hornet, they began climbing towards it.

The warrior and her friend soon reached the unconventional entrance, before quickly being joined from below by Yuss. He struck at the glass, causing it to shatter instantly. Not letting herself be surprised for long, Hornet swung herself into the opening, followed by Max. The two then looked back out.

"Human, cousin, friend Hornet," Stinger addressed them from the air, "I'm sorry, but sisters call for help. I must leave you."

"Don't you worry," the hyu-man shouted back, while heaving himself in as well. "We'll be fine. Go." The Hiveling nodded, before flying out of view.

The small pack glanced at each other, before turning to face the unbearably pristine, yet thankfully empty hallway, starting along it. Hornet breathed deeply, once again preparing her mind for the battle ahead.

All of a sudden, it started to throb, as it felt as if someone was intruding within.

---

THE PALE KING

---

Although He had prepared for, even anticipated an assault, He knew not what to make of this. To His great surprise, a woefully small group of Hivelings had suddenly come to battle the Kingsmoulds at the palace gates, both confusing and alarming Him.

Now, the frontal attack's purpose had become clear, for another, even smaller pack of only three had entered his great residence. Its nature, however, was also unexpected. Foremost, the small empty spot in his awareness could've been created by none other than the vile hornet, who, regrettably, was accompanied by his own daughter.

She would have made such a powerful knight to lead his forces' advance.

The third presence, strangely enough, belonged to what seemed like a common human from above, although He could feel something seeming the slightest bit off about them. Among them, the energy of the imposter he had expected so was nowhere to be felt. Still, it was abundantly clear that they had come for Him.

He would greet them accordingly. Then, finally let part of Him be seen and use it to swiftly guide His assailants to a proper confrontation. Whatever advantage they had hoped to gain from entering unseen was forfeit regardless. Firstly, however, he gave the Kingsmoulds the order to have his retainers flee. He'd have preferred not to lose them.

Then, He began with the human, not putting much thought into the 'greeting': "Your godless race is destined to be reborn to my pale light."

Towards the empty spot that was the corrupting barbarian, he fittingly yelled: "Your vile, defiant kind will soon be destroyed with you!"

And of Hornet, his part-mortal daughter, he asked: "Why do you stand in the way of this kingdom's, of my greatness?"

---

HORNET

---

"Because you deserve nothing more," the warrior hissed quietly, while the pain disappeared as quickly as it had come.

She looked up to see her companions also recovering from the assault on their minds. The hyu-man didn't seem too bothered (although his removable mask couldn't show any emotion), but the pain's effect on Max was apparent, as he groaned and leaned onto the warrior's shoulder, which she found herself gladly allowing.

"Wow, he really hates me," the hornet uttered between breaths, implying whatever he had said to him mustn't have been pleasant.

"He may, it doesn't matter that much anymore," the General replied with a strangely relaxed tone.

"He knows we're here now, though," Max continued worriedly, regaining his footing. "That's definitely bad, right?"

"But so do w-," the hyu-man began, before abruptly halting and, to Hornet's confusion, muttering: "No, that's not important. Look, we're in. Follow my lead and have your blades at the ready."

The male uttered something akin an 'okay' and drew his nail, as they silently continued on along the white corridor. Although the warrior took slight comfort in their numbers, she was still unsure of how they'd fair against its defenses. How long until the creatures pushed back the Hivelings at the gate and set their sights upon them?

Ugh, no. Hornet shook her head, clearing the unease. They were strong and would destroy them. A short while after, the pack reached the end of the hallway, turning to another, which lead further into the palace. Moving past the wall murals and doors to smaller rooms, they were still met with no one, bug or otherwise.

That changed soon. As the three were coming to the doorway at the corridor's end, two tall, pale figures stepped through to barricade it. The constructs, each wielding a claw-blade, sent out loud chitters unlike any beast's Hornet had seen. Nonetheless, she lowered her stance and brought her needle ahead, her eyes narrowing.

"Stay back for this one, Max," she hissed to her friend.

"Got it. Go get them," the hornet hearteningly replied, to which she stepped forward, the hyu-man drawing his nail beside her.

In response, the constructs pointed their weapons towards the bug and creature, while also bringing their own postures defensively low.

"Are you sure you don't want to wait as well, Hornet," the General spoke up. "Things didn't end well the last time."

"You've no need to spoil me, hyu-man," the warrior replied, a tad annoyed. "My guard was off then, but no more. Let's pierce them!"

Recognizing a nod from the General, she darted towards the metal beings, focused on the one to the left. It swiftly aligned the claw-blade to parry her from the front, exactly what she'd aimed for. Hornet leaped up against the wall, before dashing down at the construct. A late attempt to block was met with a slash, as she landed behind it, glancing back at the long, deep scratch she'd made into the metal.

Its effect on the construct was immediately felt and it quickly swung around to face her again, chittering angrily. A split second later, it slashed at the warrior, who hastily dodged it, alongside two other attacks right after. Fortunately, she then caught a slight opening between the blows, which let her land another powerful strike. This caused the metal creature to pull away into the corridor, allowing her a glimpse, as the General brought his greatnail down on the other.

Hornet brought her attention back to the front just as 'her' construct swung forwards again. Her needle shot up and she blocked it, before trying to dodge again. However, the monster followed up with more attacks, forcing her to block again. Then, there was another opening, which she went for without thought. In return, she was hit in the middle by a powerful kick, making her cry out and painfully fall on the floor.

The construct filled her sight and lifted its claw-blade up. Then it stopped, as if frozen. For a moment, Hornet felt confused, before hearing a familiar shout, as a nail suddenly cut through the gleaming 'neck', making the body crumble down and revealing the concerned face of Max.

"Hornet, are you okay," he asked, voice panicked, then offered a hand. "Come on, let me help you up."

Fighting an unexpected blush, the warrior smiled, allowing herself to be pulled to her feet. "I- Thank you, Max," she said, as the shock fully faded, letting her inwardly chastise herself. If the construct hadn't simply stopped, her mistake would've had a great cost. Why had it done so?

As if reading her mind, Max then said: "Uh-huh, that looked close. Why'd it just stop?"

"These weren't meant to kill us, just 'welcome'," answered the General, who stood over another pile of metal. "They were much slower than the ones in Elsewhere. I think the king wants to confront us himself."

"Then we shouldn't linger for long," Hornet spoke firmly. "Hyu-man, I may be wrong, but you seem to have some way of knowing where he is. Please, use it. Let's find him, if heso wishes." Their companion nodded, sheathing his nail motioning for them to come with.

The hunting pack headed through the doorway to find themselves in a large hall, much like the one Hornet had looked over once before. Still, there were no servants to be seen, having likely fled from them. Following the hyu-man through it and into more forgettable corridors, they didn't come across any more constructs either.

---

They soon came upon an even bigger seeming hall, which, too, was empty of bugs, although there were a noticeable amount of discarded items over the wide floor. Reaching its middle, the surface dweller stopped, attentively looking around and muttering something. Then, he quickly began towards one of the dark side doors, Hornet and Max going as well, looking at each other in confusion.

Having reached the opening, the General whispered: I know this might look like a trap, but things point to the king being in there."

"Wait, I- I remember this room," Max said, alarmed. "This is where I- where we were taken when he-"

The hyu-man interjected: "Fitting, then. You meet him here, you end him here. Now, listen you two: When we go in, I'll say the official things first, then you'll be free to speak. Alright?"

"Understood," Hornet replied, despite not really understanding why any 'official' speech was needed. With a little waver in her voice, she added: "Let's go finish this."

Without further ado, they walked in. Not a moment after they'd entered, the opening behind them closed with a heavy slam. Her stance tense, the warrior eyed around the empty, dark room. She then saw a bright light beginning to emerge from its far end. Slowly, the Pale King stepped into sight, fully lighting the surrounding space. Their enemy stood there, as regal and imposing as ever, and extended his arms.

"I welcome you, insolent ones, into my presence." His voice was like an overly loud whisper. "I assure that all this shall soon be over."

"That it will," the hyu-man replied darkly, drawing his chest-weapon, his gun, before beginning in almost pure gibberish: "On behalf of the United Nations, of humanity, you, Pale King, are charged with war of conquest against the United States of America, forceful subjugation of its civilian populace and unlawful mass usage of transformative magic, among other grave violations. In light of these, I, General Lembit Juss, sentence you to immediate executio-."

"Quiet with your senseless blabber, human," the higher being thundered. "You shall die or submit! As will you, daughter! Perhaps it is not too late to save you," he pointed at her new needle, "make you let go of the past."

"That won't happen," Hornet angrily spoke back, "never on your terms! You will pay for what you did to me, for what you did to Max and his people!"

"You have corrupted her with your chaos, hornet," the king said, glaring at her friend, "simply let yourself be rightfully killed."

"No," the hornet furiously yelled, drawing his nail," I've never done anything to her, I'd never. She saved me from you, after you came up and fucked everything I had in my life so far!

"All vile lies," the Wyrm brashly responded, "you were hiding amongst the godless in a false form. I could feel it. But now, nothing will save you. You will die!"

"No," Yuss said shortly, "you." There was an unbearably high bang, as the gun fired, making the Pale King hunch in pain. "Take him down!"

Max glanced at Hornet. "You're left, I'm right." She nodded, as they sprang into action in unison, rushing towards the higher being. This was it. He would die now. She dashed at him, ready to pierce, before suddenly being blocked by a familiar weapon. The king then pushed her back and, in the blink of an eye, moved to do the same to her friend, though with slightly more difficulty.

"Unmannered," he hissed, fully brandishing the Pure Nail.

"As are you," the halfling growled, swiftly approaching again, "that blade does not belong to you."

"I took part in the vessels' creation," the king replied, bringing it up to clash with hers, "what was theirs is now mine!"

"You used it for murder," Hornet insisted angrily, as another of her attacks was blocked. Though killing was an unavoidable part of her way of life, she still understood murder as taking the life of one helpless to stop it. She wasn't clean of it either.

"The White Lady's death was for reasons you cannot yet comprehend," the Pale King yelled back, before a blast of bright energy flew out from him, knocking the warrior away again.

"She tried to deny me. I will not be denied," he finished deafeningly, as Hornet collected herself, the air around her suddenly bearing a strange scent.

"Deny this," her friend shouted, rushing up and unleashing a flurry of blows against the king, even making him step backwards. Finally, he managed to get a strike against the quick blocks, causing the Wyrm to roar. He slashed back, knocking the hornet off balance. Before he could land another, however, there was suddenly another high gun-bang, which made him stagger again, letting Max retreat.

Ignoring that, Hornet glanced aside to see the hyu-man nodding at her. She smirked back, then confidently darted forwards. As she clashed with him, he was hit with another shot, which made him appear even angrier. He quickly swung the nail her sibling had used for much nobler ends, once again leaving her little room for strikes of her own. Shortly after, he kicked at her, sending the warrior back, but thankfully not onto her backside like before.

"I am becoming tired of this," the higher being said, before being hit by two more consecutive shots. His gaze snapped to the General, accompanied by an unnaturally loud roar, as another pulse of white energy was unleashed, forcing the Hornet even further back.

"What's he doing? What's going on around us," Max cried from beside her, as she too noticed how the air had begun feeling even stranger.

"He's started to put more of his magic to use," the hyu-man explained from her other side, putting something in his gun. "It'll make him stronger, but not for long. A few more bursts like that and it'll all be out. He will tire out and let us end it. But we just have to last until then." He used his other arm to draw the greatnail. "So, let's get up close again."

"Very well," Hornet smirked confidently, recovered. She'd survived things just as bad.

"Come forth, then," the Pale King taunted, waving his free hand.

All of a sudden, the walls of the battle room crashed open, as two spinning greatnails shot through, right for them.

"Duck," Max yelled, to which the three hastily dashed down and forwards, the blades passing over their heads, before halting in midair. The warrior looked ahead, fully angry once more. She uttered an indecency and rushed at the higher being, flanked by her companions.

As Max went for a wide swing from the side, she moved for quick, agile strikes. Moving impossibly fast, the Pale King still managed to parry most of her attacks, his counter blows now seeming even stronger. However, he was then taken off guard by the General, who managed three worthy hits with the greatnail. In response, the Wyrm jabbed his free hand at him, from which came a bright blast that forced him back. Right after, he turned to fight off Max, all while seemingly paying no mind to the slashes landed by Hornet.

The young male pushed away, he faced her, saying: "Hornet, daughter, you certainly must be aware that if you managed to kill me, Hallownest would regard you as queen." He let out a chuckle. "You certainly wouldn't be able to stand something as such, would you?"

The warrior froze in a block, her eyes widened. "I- I- wo-" There was an approaching, loud 'whoosh'.

"Look out!" She felt herself be pulled back from the collar, as a spinning blade flashed by right in front of her mask. She looked around, right into the widened, caring eyes of Max.

"Th- thank you," she quickly stuttered, smiling, before turning back towards the king and replying much more firmly: "I- I'm not sure how things shall go once I have to usurp your mantle, but know that I shall always rule more honorably than you!"

The Wyrm scowled, while she and her friend retreated to the General's side again. He stepped forward, before slowly lifting into the air, stopping only beside his magic spinning blades. Hornet braced herself, as he expelled another powerful blast of magic, changing even more of the air.

Hopefully, there wouldn't be many more left.

---

ADRIAN

---

He stood in the tunnel, leaning against the wall and keeping his eyes on the exit. Sadly, his healer-bee friend, Apisia, had been called to do her job in the Hive, leaving him alone for now. The kids and General had been away for quite a while now, probably a few hours. He understood that these sorts of battles took pretty long sometimes.
Still, there was that familial concern he felt for Max. Kid had only trained for a few days. Hopefully, Juss' confidence about that God damn pale bastard being weak would be true. If not that, then at least the clear connection the boy had with Hornet, even though things looked to be getting hard for the girl.

Regardless, Adrian kept on watching the tunnel. Suddenly, what felt like some sort of 'wave' went right through him. The man jolted up, looking around, then at himself, seeing nothing new or strange. A moment later, he felt a pull inside of his head. It wasn't a voice, but it told him to go somewhere, so he resisted it at first.

So it strengthened into a tug. Adrian fought back again, now alarmed. What the hell was this? More magic? Then, it quickly started to lose its sharp tone, becoming a call. A warm, yet firm and demanding call telling him to go. The man blinked, as his view started to turn weird. Go where?

Go below.

How, though? As his sight hazed further, the man saw a clear, pure white path lead forward. He shook his head. He had to wait for Max and the others. But he'd be able to do that after he was done going below, according to the call.

So he began to walk along the path.

"No. Run!" Now there was a whisper, one just as warm and demanding as the rest of the call. It prompted him to run, and to run faster. The haze outside of the path was fully black, so he kept on the white. After a short while, there were dark gaps in it, making him strain and jump over them, keeping on the path.

"Good. Faster." So he followed it faster.

He kept along it for some more time, feeling a little strained, until suddenly, the white disappeared, along with his footing. The man fell forward into the dark haze, landing painfully. His legs and arms felt awful. Then, he saw the path reappeared in front of him, along with the call, now even stronger.

So despite the pain, he kept going. He had to. The dark haze around narrowed in on him, but the path remained, a bit more uneven. As he ran, it scratched and hit his arms and sides. It didn't matter, though it went on for quite long. Even then, he was thankful when the haze widened out again.

However, shortly after, the path went straight up some kind of ledge. Though it hurt, he pulled himself onto it, since he had to keep on the path. He rushed along it again, discovering that it now went down. So as quickly as he could, he climbed down. The man was quite capable, after all.

Despite that, even following the call downward, the surrounding haze had him miss a bottom step, making him fall again, though fortunately not as painfully.

Finally, the call wasn't from below, but ahead. The ground under his feet was firmer as well, prompting him to run forward again. He still had to. However, he then reached another ledge, this one higher than before. Arms were hurting, but he managed to climb up. Getting to his feet, something in the call told him there'd be no more obstacles. That was good.

So he rushed along the even white path. He was so spent and in so much pain, but the call still kept him going. The black haze around him started to turn bright as well, although it stayed unclear around the path, letting him see it, follow it better. He ran along for some time longer, he really couldn't tell how much, but the call was very close now.

At last, he made it through what felt like a door and saw the path's end. On that spot, he stopped. Ahead, he saw who he knew was the Caller, since he was as pale as the path. He'd made it.

But what now? The Caller smiled at him.

Then, he glanced around to see another figure, almost entirely black like the haze had been before.

"Adrian! How are you-," sounded from far away, as the dark thing approached. Adrian? He guessed that was his name, but why was it being called?

"Adrian, look at me," came from a bit closer, as the character pulled of its strange face to reveal:

Juss, the General, and he looked angry.

"Adrian," his friend shouted,

"Listen only to the sound of my voice! Come back into control!"

The rest of the General slowly came into focus, as did the surrounding room. Adrian looked around. Where the hell was he? What just happened? He glimpsed at the Caller, who remained there, though he couldn't see a smile anymore. The man then turned around and saw his nephew. As a hornet, yes, but still Max. He was standing next to Hornet and both of them had their sword-things out. The latter's red cloak also looked torn.

Adrian hissed, as the pain finally registered properly.

---

MAX

---

Something was wrong. He'd realized it a while ago.

The Pale King seemed more powerful than the General had said. They'd quickly fought off his first 'phases' and it'd seem like he really would be done for pretty soon. However, the evil god had grown much stronger after his next magic bursts, getting faster too. For a good while now, the pack had had to defend more. Hornet and he had started to get worn down as well. It was bad and even their human was getting worried.

And it just became worse when the door had suddenly opened and he'd looked in horror, as Adrian shambled in, covered in bloody scratches and bruises, his clothes tattered. At first, his eyes were even milky white. Then, the General had started speaking to him in some kind of Human, pulling the gas mask off, which'd seemed to turn him normal again.

Now he was finally returning the hornet's shocked look.

"How the hell did you bring him here," Juss' voice yelled.

"He stood close enough and no human should live without my light," the king tauntingly replied. "However, I see the truth here now." Suddenly, he raised a sparking, glowing hand towards the bloodied human. Max had learned what it meant and he couldn't let it happen.

"No," he shouted, racing forward. He reached his uncle just as the white bolt fired, hitting him in the chest and making everything go dark.

---

HORNET

---

"Max, no," Hornet screamed, haphazardly rushing to the two bodies thrown against the wall.

It'd become entirely clear that the Pale King's endurance and power were far greater than the General had expected or hoped. And although they had been able to fend off thus far, the higher being's strikes had started to get increasingly tiring to dodge and much more dangerous to parry, especially for her and her friend.

And just now, her friend had thrown himself into a blast, shielding an injured Adrian. Such a bolt would've possibly even killed her, but him- Tears welled up in her eyes, as she came to the unmoving hornet, crouching over the curled up hornet. He couldn't be! Hardship aside, they could've stillkilled him!

"Max," she desperately yelled again, throwing her needle aside and cradling him. "Please don't!" She knew it was denial, but slapped across his scratched mask anyway. "Wake up, I beg you." Her breaths were beyond rapid, as the words simply came to her mouth.

"Don't go! I lo-"

She was interrupted by a dark chuckle, making her look at its owner.

"Worry not, daughter, it is over. He may have seduced you, but his ability was no match for mine," the Pale King spoke, as even Yuss seemed momentarily petrified with fear.

More tears came to the princess' eyes, as he looked back at the limp Max in her arms. All of a sudden, she felt the male twitch, eliciting a gasp from her. Then, the hornet groaned, before looking up at her.

"Hornet? Wha-," he stuttered, to the female's surprise. "What'd you just say? Why'm I so sore?" His eyes then widened, as the red-stained hyu-man beside them moved as well. They were alive, both of them.

"Of course," the General shouted from somewhere.

Max was alive. Hurt, but still with her. For the blink of an eye, Hornet felt relief. Then, it quickly turned to anger. Burning rage towards the one that did this to him, to her Max. She quickly drew her needle and got back into stance, furiously glaring at the Pale King.

"Garuma," she yelled, before darting towards him with a hiss, intent on finishing this.

However, someone then grasped the warrior's shoulder, halting her in place. The hand then pulled her to face the unmasked Yuss. "Don't," he spoke, dead serious. "Stay back with them and defend if anything comes close. I've got this."

He swiftly pushed her back towards their injured companions, before turning to face the Wyrm.

Hornet returned to the two other males, sending the slightest smile at Max, who'd managed to lean against the wall. They both then turned to worriedly look at the confrontation between the Pale King and the General.

"This has gone on for far too long," the latter shouted, steadily walking closer.

"Agreed," the higher being responded. "When shall you realize it is useless to resist me?"

"The exact moment you tell us the source of this power!" The hyu-man waved at the room. "No Keeper's power can grow so quick from the worship of some twenty, thirty captured subjects! Tell me what you did!"

"You are in no position to ask such things of me, human," the king thundered back, raising the Pure Nail, "even know of them. Instead, before I end you, you shall reveal where the imposter being dwells!"

"What? What do you mean," the General asked, as Hornet also felt confused.

"Do not act like even more of a fool," yelled the king. "You know what I speak off. The higher being that accompanied your forces into my realm to aid against me. The hidden one, of whom only traces can be felt!"

The hyu-man stood silent for a moment. Then, to the warrior's further confusion, he began chuckling, angering the Wyrm.

"Very well. I shall learn of it regardless." The false god's glow brightened, extending to his weapon, which fired out another powerful blast. As it flew towards the hyu-man, however, his greatnail suddenly lit up with yellow and he quickly swung it, cutting right through the magic.

Hornet yelped in surprise, before seeing half of the blast heading towards them. She swiftly parried it with her needle, then looked back at the General in pure shock. Along with the greatnail, the entirety of the hyu-man's right arm appeared to be burning with yellow fire.

"What is this," the Pale King shouted, alarmed. "You humans are godless. You cannot use magic!"

"You know too little of us humans," Yuss growled back, before charging at the enemy, burning blade in hand. Hornet could only watch in awe, as he began dealing very fast blows at the king, forcing the latter to retreat considerably. The hyu-man ended his flurry with a close shot from his gun, before slashing a final time.

"Now tell me," The female heard him hiss. "Where did you draw this power?"

"You should know, fool," the Wyrm's voice echoed without any weariness, "you went to her." A flash of white finally forced his attacker away.

"You lower than low scum," the General roared. "You drained her!"

"It was necessary," the king affirmed angrily, "It gave me strength needed to save our World!" He leaped into the air with raised arms, unleashing another burst of his power.

Hornet braced herself from it, before worriedly glancing at the hyu-man, who quickly turned to run back to them, sheathing his weapons. "You mean to escape," the king asked, barely missing him with a pale bolt.

"Yes we do," Yuss breathed, reaching the warrior and males, "So fuck off!" He turned and pointed a still-lit palm at the higher being, out of which came a blast of his own. It threw the Pale King against the far wall.

"That won't give us much," he quickly said, "we've to go. Hornet, you're good. Max, you?"

The warrior too looked over to her friend, who came to his feet. "I- I'm still sore as doma, but I can run." His mask then became worried. "But what about my uncle?"

Indeed, the injured hyu-man was still laying on the ground, though awake.

"Adrian, I need you to touch to touch my hand," The General spoke, offering his unusual arm.

"What the hell are you, Sir," Max's uncle asked, glaring upward.

"Your friend," Yuss replied, irate. "Now touch me, damn it!" The other male heeded, which made the yellow shine spread to him, rapidly closing the red wounds. Shocked, he sat, then stood up.

"Good, that kick should last enough," the leading hyu-man spoke. "Now let's move."

---

The pack of four ran into the great hall outside, its fresh air rushing to greet them. However, it didn't relieve for long, for Hornet saw the previously empty corridors now swarming with countless white constructs, all headed for them. As the two hyu-mans and bugs made it to the large room's middle, they found themselves entirely surrounded.

"You won't get far," the king's voice sounded.

"They- They're everywhere," Max fearfully shouted beside Adrian. "Where do we go, Sir?"

"You'll go, not us," the General replied simply, raising his hand. It lit with gold again, sending a blast towards the two, which made them suddenly disappear.

"Max," Hornet found her voice again, reaching a hand to where her friend had just stood. She angrily faced the hyu-man. "What did you do to him?"

"Gave them enough of a head start," the strict creature replied, breathing heavily, "and we'll lengthen it even more, understood?"

The warrior gave a determined nod, glancing at the white monsters that needed to be stalled. "How long must we last here," she asked, readying her needle.

"We're not staying," Yuss spoke, his right hand beginning to glow brighter, while the constructs closed in. As they were upon them, he raised it into the air in a fist, creating an eruption of gold energy, which caused the attackers to be thrown away, pushing the further ones over. "We want to survive too, don't we," he finished, pointing at the path he'd created. Hornet threw off the shock and nodded again.

With the recovered 'Kingsmoulds' in pursuit, the two charged through the white hallways. As he'd before, the hyu-man ran in the lead, as Hornet loyally followed. So far, their lead over the constructs had remained strong. Still, she couldn't tell how long she'd be able to run like this.

"Hyu-man," she shouted, "do we lead them aimlessly or are we headed somewhere?"

"I'm working on that," her companion replied, before asking: "Do you know of the lowest place in this palace?"

"Yes, the dungeon," the warrior spoke. "I don't know its entrance, however."

"Damn," the General cursed, making her flinch, "we'll just have to find it, then."

They kept on through the palace corridors, although both were now eyeing for any staircase or passage that would take them downward. Unfortunately, the rush soon started to wear Hornet down, forcing them to slow their pace, which brought the steadily running Kingsmoulds slightly closer.

"There!" Finally, the hyu-man pointed ahead at a flight of stairs leading below. The two ran to it, quickly heading down, as the white light of the palace quickly faded, replaced by wall lanterns. At the bottom, the female saw a thick wooden door. Fortunately, it was open as well.

---

Hornet and the General rushed into the dungeon, both coming to a halt, as the former caught her breath and the male slammed the door shut, breaking the lock with a punch.

"That won't hold them for long," he said, looking at the warrior. "Still, we're pretty lucky about this."

"Indeed," she agreed, glancing around the uncomfortably familiar prison tunnel. "We've made it here. Where do we head now?"

"Well, you and Max escaped somehow. How we try over there," the General offered, as multiple sets of muffled footsteps became heard.

Hornet hastily showed her agreement, there really being no other options, and they quickly began heading deeper into the dungeon. The dark maze of tunnels wasn't easy to navigate, but hers was the memory of a hunter, soon leading them onto the path to the exit she'd used with her friend.

After a good while of running, they came upon the last stretch of dimly lit prison room. Making their way towards the rocky border wall, Hornet suddenly made something out. At the General's confused hum, she looked at a closed cell to their side, while the sound continued. Carefully approaching, the warrior scented what was unmistakably hyu-man. Then, she saw the figure on the floor, as it groaned again.

"Oh no," she heard her companion mutter. "Charles."

"What," she asked him. "You know who this is?"

"Yes, he's a human I tried to save from Max's town on the surface," the General replied. "Didn't end well."

"But I thought he had them all changed," Hornet spoke, confused. Just then, the figure looked up, seeing them. He began speaking something in Hyu-man, reaching out towards them.

"Don't be afraid, MisterCharles," her hyu-man responded understandably, "she is with me."

The jailed male went on, his voice weak.

"I'm sorry, we're being chased. I cannot let you out," the General spoke, regret in his tone, causing this 'Charles' to sob loudly, before slurring more. As he did so, however, Hornet's attention was caught by something resounding throug the darkness.

She looked back into the tunnel, instantly recognizing the metallic footsteps getting closer by the moment. She turned back to the General, who was reaching into the cell, whispering something else she couldn't catch.

"Hyu-man, we must go, now," she anxiously called, as the General hastily pulled his hands from the bars and stood back up, nodding.

Fortunately, it was a less than short dash to the dungeon's border, which lead straight into the cold edge cavern. Following the gust from the front yet again, Hornet burrowed through the narrow passage, even hurting her feet on its uneven ground. Still, she soon saw the cracked wall ahead. The warrior nearly leaped out onto the small ledge, catching her fleeting breath yet again. Moments later, Yuss joined her as well.

He looked at her, expectantly waving a hand, to which the warrior stood back upright, glaring at the cliff she'd once helped Max climb. It felt so long ago, even though a little more than a week had passed. Nonetheless, she pointed up it.

"No, we can't go up. Look," the General said in response, nudging at the bridge above. Hornet's eyes widened, as she saw Kingsmoulds already standing on it, looming down at them, as the scratching of metal started echoing from the passage. They were trapped again, unless-

"Hyu-man," Hornet asked desperately, "can't you send us away as you did Max?"

"I'm sorry, not anymore. Too spent for that" her companion replied, breathing heavily. Suddenly, he asked: "Hornet, is there walkable land in the Abyss?"

Confused, the warrior glanced at the dark below. She'd only ever dared its entrance pit when it'd been opened. However, Ghost had gone further, meaning there had to be something, so she nodded.

The hyu-man smirked. "Good. And how far can you bugs fall and survive?"

"O- Our shells naturally resist heights," Hornet stuttered, coming to realize what he meant to do. "Wait, you do not-"

"Yes, I do" Yuss affirmed gravely. "We'll be fine."

Then, before she could even react and jump away, he charged, tackling her off the cliff.

Needle escaping her grasp, Hornet could only scream, as they plunged into darkness.

---

Merry early Christmas!

And here we are. The big 'season finale' chapter. After a month in development, hopefully It'll have been worth the wait. Hopefully, it didn't feel to long either. That middle part with the General especially, since school-stress made me care too much about daily word quota there. Thankfully, I stopped the filler for the end battle and think it came out pretty good.

But seriously, I hope you liked the (kind of obvious) reveals and stuff. Sadly, since this took so long to write, it was also very time-consuming and stressful, I'm really going to take a break now to spend Christmas in peace. So expect actual new chapters around February.

Thanks for sticking around so far. R&R