Thanks to coincidencless for editing.

This story is part of a series.

Part 1 - Frisk: God of the World

Part 2 - New Life

Part 3 - Never Die Again (You are here)

If you haven't read the series up to this point, you might feel a little lost. If you have read the series up to this point, you will be even more lost.

Have fun!

Cathleen Remire raised her axe high. Its blade glistened in the late afternoon sunlight, and she brought it down into the log of wood, splitting it clean in half. She sorted the two pieces into the pile and grabbed the next log, and so the cycle continued.

Her muscles ached, but Cathleen didn't mind. Without firewood, the villagers would freeze at night. It was a matter of life and death; she couldn't stop until there was enough for everyone. She lifted her axe back up and split another log, and the pieces fell to the ground. She panted. Alright, just a few…

"Hey, Cath! You doing okay there?"

She looked up and saw Dacuel Argien approach her, accompanied by Everette and Syleth. Dacuel gave her an ear-to-ear grin. He was a seventeen-year-old human with short, dark brown hair, a beard with a thin but complete frame of his handsome face, and red eyes, indicative of his red soul. He wore an olive tunic and gray slacks, and he had a bow and quiver strapped to his back. He had also slung a deer carcass around his shoulder, keeping it steady with one arm. The hunt had been successful, good. They needed to take whatever they could get.

Cathleen huffed. "I'm fine, Dacuel."

"You sure?" Dacuel asked. "You look like you could pass out at any moment. Why don't you take a break before you work yourself to death? I think you got enough for one day."

She sighed. "I appreciate the concern, really, but it'll take more than a few logs to kill me."

Dacuel lowered his head in a snarky bow. "Oh, forgive me, Your Grace. I should have known that a little woodcutting would be no problem for the great and powerful future chieftain of Garnet Village. Please excuse my foolishness."

"Damn right," Cathleen said. "Though, I guess it wouldn't hurt to take a short break…"

"Yeah," Everette said. "Please don't overwork yourself. No one wants to see you collapsed, Cathy."

Dacuel winked. "Well, not out here, anyway."

Everette gasped. "D-Dacuel! You can't just say things like…!"

Cathleen laughed it off. "It's fine, Everette."

He blushed. "Oh, uh, if you say so."

Everette Victor was a sixteen-year-old human. He wore a white tunic and brown slacks, and he had a medium-length bob of blond hair. Like Dacuel, he had red eyes. On his back was a sack with several plants sticking out the top. Cathleen eyed them. "Got anything useful?"

Everette's eyes sparkled. "Oh, yes! These herbs I found are great for dealing with colds. It's not a cure, but it makes the coughing and pain much more bearable! I hope they'll help anyone who gets sick!"

Cathleen smiled. "I'm sure they will, good work."

"I also found some new fertilizer I'd like to try," Everette went on. "I know it's a while until planting season, but since our last harvest was a bit short I wanted to -"

"Yes, I understand," Cathleen said. "Thanks, Everette."

"O-of course," Everette said. "Didn't mean to get carried away."

Dacuel scoffed. "Forget the plants. Can we talk about how Ev masterfully took down this deer?" He pat the dead animal on its head. "You should have seen it. He pulled back the bowstring flawlessly and fired the arrow right into its neck, and the beast went down before it knew what hit him. It was a golden shot, truly. He's on his way to becoming a world-class huntsman."

"Oh, uh, I was just lucky," Everette said bashfully.

"Well," Dacuel said, "I guess you did have an amazing teacher to guide you."

"Heh, yeah," Everette said. "Even with all the luck in the universe, I couldn't have done it without -"

Syleth gagged. "Ugh, enough already."

Cathleen's gaze turned to him. Syleth Kass was a boss monster resembling a heron. His slender, anthropomorphic body was covered in snow-white feathers. He had a yellow beak and sapphire eyes, long light blond hair, and he wore a white robe with light blue accents. His upper limbs functioned as both arms and wings, offering a wingspan wide enough for him to take flight, and there were four finger-like appendages on each end, allowing him to handle objects as well as a human. Though he had lived for fifteen years, his body was frozen at the age of ten, and so he was forever stuck with the small height and high-pitched voice of a child.

With a furrowed brow, Syleth leaned against the wagon he had been pulling, filled with jars of water. "Dare I ask what's wrong?" Cathleen said.

"Oh, you know how he is," Dacuel said. "Not the touchy-feely type. Doesn't like it when things get too sappy, must be an allergy. Poor thing."

Syleth rolled his eyes and ignored him. Meanwhile, Cathleen hungrily eyed the wagon full of water jugs. "I know you didn't make any promises, but did you manage to get that item I requested?"

Dacuel smiled. "Come on, Cath. We went out for two things, hunting and gathering water, and also plants because Everette is a nerd. You know we didn't have time for special orders. Can't you settle for a nice, steaming plate of venison?"

She frowned dejectedly. "I… I see. I suppose it was too much to ask, but it's alright. That deer will be perfectly acceptable."

Smirking, Dacuel grabbed a bag hidden within the jugs of water and handed it to Cathleen. "Don't worry; we made time."

Cathleen gasped. She carefully opened the bag and peeked inside. She beamed. "Oh, you caught one!"

"Yep," Dacuel said. "One fish for our fearless leader."

Yes, yes! They had caught her a delicious salmon! Cathleen breathed deep and savored its heavenly aroma, earning some dubious stares from Everette and Syleth. "Thank you!" she exclaimed. "I can hardly wait to cook this up!"

"No problem," Dacuel said. "It was worth it just to loosen that stoic brow of yours for once."

She shot him a peeved glare. "Come now. Don't make me sound like some boorish slave driver. I know how to have fun."

He laughed. "Whatever you say, Empress."

She growled. "Dacuel…"

"What?" Dacuel asked. "I just like seeing a different side of you is all. It's nice to know that people have depth and complexity to them. You should try tapping into your easygoing side more often."

"And what of yourself?" Cathleen challenged. "Ever think that people might want to see you as anything other than a wisecracking jester? Perhaps you could try being more serious for once?"

"Oh, I can be serious," Dacuel said. "Don't you worry about that."

Cathleen sighed. "Well, whatever your motives may be, thanks for the fish. Now, let's take these supplies to storage."

"Yes," Everette said. "Let's do that."

Dacuel saluted. "Lead the way, Chieftain."

I'm just going to ignore that, Cathleen thought.

After loading the wood Cathleen had chopped onto the wagon, they headed for the gate to Garnet Village. As they approached, Cathleen viewed her home with admiration. With a population of over three-hundred, it was larger than most villages, but much more quaint than a bustling city. A wooden wall three times Cathleen's height protected its borders. She wished they could have used stone, but they unfortunately didn't have the expertise or resources for that. On the bright side, there was a tall watchtower overlooking the entrance. An eagle monster equipped with a bow and a blowhorn stood inside, ready to sound the alarm at the first sign of trouble. Cathleen prayed it would help prevent another tragedy like the one they had suffered five years ago.

They approached the wooden gate, which was guarded by a human and a dog monster, both outfitted with chainmail armor and spears. Cathleen waved at them. "Greetings, anything to report?"

"Ah, hello Cathleen," the dog - affectionately called Guard Dog - replied. "As a matter of fact, Seth and Elara returned about an hour ago, said they needed to speak with your father."

Cathleen shivered inside, but she maintained an expression of confidence. "Did they now? I hope they have good news."

"They wouldn't say," Guard Dog said, "but I don't think it was good at all. This dog knows bad news when he smells it."

The human guard nodded. "Yeah, it didn't look good."

She frowned. "If so, I can't say it was unexpected. In any case, thanks for the warning."

Guard Dog gave an affirmative bark. "Anytime!"

Cathleen and the others passed through the gate and stepped inside the village. An even mix of humans and monsters walked through the streets going about their business, surrounded by simple wooden homes that densely filled the village. The monsters came in all shapes and sizes, wolves, dragons, deer, slimes, ghosts, whatever one could imagine.

As for the humans, red eyes were a common sight among them. For every human villager Cathleen looked at, there was a fifty-percent chance that the crimson eyes of a fellow red soul bearer would stare back at her, an unusually high percentage compared to most of the world. In fact, it was the village's namesake. Cathleen wasn't too concerned about that, though. She was proud that Garnet Village was a place where humans and monsters could coexist peacefully.

Suddenly, Syleth threw open his wings and cried out with rage. "Alright! That's it! It's official! We're all dead!"

Everette whimpered. "Don't say that. We don't know if -"

"Oh, but we do," Syleth said darkly. "They're gonna kill us all, every last one of us."

Dacuel shrugged. "I mean, maybe? I guess it's a possibility."

Cathleen hardly wished to imagine would happen if the Human Alliance attacked. If they went through with a declaration of war against monsterkind, Garnet Village would be among the first on the chopping block. There were too many humans and monsters in one place. The Alliance would send the largest and most powerful army they had. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of soldiers marching at their wooden gates, armed with military-grade weapons and deadly mages. The village wouldn't stand a chance; they would be slaughtered. Everything they had built, all of her friends, gone, never to return. The thought of such a massacre made Cathleen sick.

But, Cathleen couldn't show her fear. If she was going to lead the village one day, she had to put on a brave face and inspire her people with hope. She had to make her friends believe that there was still a chance for peace. "Everette's right," Cathleen said. "It's too soon to say what will happen. For now, let's get to my father's house and see how Seth's negotiations went."

Syleth folded his wings. "Hmph."

They kept moving, dragging their supply wagon all the way to Cathleen's home, the residence of the village Chieftain. Naturally, it was a finer house than those of the common villagers. It was two floors tall, had a front porch, and had windows along each side, all luxuries that most of the other homes lacked. Cathleen felt spoiled by it. Had it been up to her, she would have been perfectly fine living like the rest of her people, but she knew that a noble family - even a lesser one - needed to demonstrate their power. As long as it didn't get too extravagant, Cathleen supposed she could indulge a bit.

She approached the front porch and saw Father talking with Seth and Elara. There were still there, good. Cathleen could hear what they had to say directly. As she got closer, she heard Father speak with a raised voice. "Have you lost your mind? There's no way I'd ever…" His head turned towards her. "Oh, Cathleen. You're back. How did the woodcutting go?"

"Sufficiently," Cathleen answered. Her eyes shifted between the three. Her father, Jerald Remire, was a forty-four-year-old human with short light brown hair and the green eyes of a kindness soul. He wore an orange coat lined with white fur and gray pants, and he had a battle axe strapped to his waist.

Seth Gilbert, a forty-nine-year-old human, was a knight in service of the village. He wore a full suit of steel plate armor, had a sword on his waist, and a shield on his back. His ginger hair went down to his shoulders, and he had a small beard on his chin. His red eyes showed that he was another soul of determination.

Elara Gilbert, Seth's daughter, was a sixteen-year-old human. Her long hair was the same color as her father's, and she had red eyes as well. She wore a dark blue dress and carried a magical staff.

Cathleen hoped one of them would fill her in on the situation. "May I ask what you were discussing?"

"Cathleen, it's horrible!" Elara cried. "The Alliance is actually doing it! They're trying to pass a declaration of war against the entirety of monsterkind, and nations all around the world are backing it! I don't know if we can stop this!"

Cathleen's red eyes widened. "H-hold on, are you saying the Alliance's reach has escalated to a global scale?"

"Wish I could say 'no'," Elara said, "but I can't. Sorry!"

Cathleen gaped in shock. "How many?"

"It's dire," Seth said. "The tale of Bora's grim deeds traveled at a rapid pace. I imagine that all but the most dedicated hermits know of it. Dozens of nations all across Earth have pledged their support for the Alliance, demanding swift action. They've proposed two options. Either the monsters agree to be sealed within underground caverns by powerful magic barriers, or the Alliance will declare war on all of monsterkind."

Cathleen felt a chill run down her spine. It was worse than she had thought. She had known that dozens of nations would join the Alliance, but the entire world? Had she really been so naïve to think that at least a few would stand with the monsters? Her face twisted into a dark grimace. Is there nothing we can do?

"Of course they will," Syleth said. "What else could anyone expect?"

"Sealed underground?" Everette asked. "But, then we'll never see them again. How will they even survive like that?"

"Nice to know the Alliance is so merciful," Dacuel said. "An eternity in an underground paradise with no sunlight. Harvest must be spectacular down there. Sign me up!"

"How have the monsters responded?" Cathleen asked.

"King Asgore Dreemurr is leading negotiations," Seth answered. "He intends to investigate a countermeasure against any monsters who assimilate human souls, but the Alliance is highly skeptical that such a solution exists. Even if there is one, they say, it will take more time to discover than we have. Until they declare war, however, King Asgore has expressly forbidden all monsters from claiming any souls or striking first. Like most monsters, he believes it to be a sinful power that must never be touched."

Cathleen's felt her stomach twist. It was a complicated dilemma. On one hand, she understood how dangerous that power was. If the six souls Bora had absorbed hadn't broken free, there was no telling how much damage she would have done. On the other hand, taking human souls may have been the only way to save monsterkind. What was the right decision?

"If you ask me," Seth said, "the King has made a grave error. Now that we know of this power, we have no choice but to use it, or every monster on Earth will be exterminated, our village included. We cannot stand idle while -"

"Enough!" Father cried. "I will not dare consider this for a moment. No matter what happens, we are not using that power. I will not justify the Alliance's war. Everyone in this village will follow Asgore's command; is that clear?"

"Think this through!" Seth argued. "When the Alliance comes marching at our gates, do you really want to be responsible for the massacre that will happen?"

"You should listen to him," Syleth said. "It's about time someone started making sense around here."

"Yes!" Seth said. "Please, Jerald! We must…!"

"Damn it, Seth!" Father snapped. "King Asgore and I are both giving you an order, and that's final. If you so much as suggest sacrificing anyone's soul one more time, I will have no choice but to lock you up. Understand?"

Cathleen grew tense. She knew that her father wasn't bluffing. Seth had always been a loyal knight, but if he kept pushing him… Cathleen hoped it didn't come to that.

As Seth's face reddened, Elara gently held his hand. "Father, don't…"

Seth growled. "I see my words will not sway you, so be it. If there's nothing else, I will take my leave. Just know that if we continue to do nothing, I fear that we are all doomed to misfortune." He glanced at Elara. "Let's go."

Elara frowned and nervously shifted her eyes. "Umm, actually, can I stay? We've only just got back, and I want to…"

Seth sighed. "Fine, I'll see you back home."

Elara smiled. "Thanks, Father."

Shooting an irate glance at Father, Seth walked away. Cathleen frowned. She had never seen them so hostile before; the threat of war had sent everyone on edge. She hated it.

Father gave Elara an apologetic frown. "Sorry if I scared you, and thanks for the help."

"It's okay," Elara said. "I know you'd never hurt him. I just wish we didn't have to deal with all this."

"Yeah," Dacuel agreed. "Everything was great until that Bora monster ate her husband and decided to go on a bloodthirsty rampage. Who knew that our wildest mythologies would suddenly become real?"

Elara gave a weary laugh. "Ah, Dacuel. You never cease to put a smile on my face."

Cathleen wasn't so amused. She shook her head in disgust. "This is nothing to joke about," she said. "If Bora hadn't killed those people, we wouldn't have an impending war on our hands."

"It was only a matter of time," Syleth said bitterly.

"He's got a point there," Dacuel said. "I'm surprised it took as long as it did for a monster to try dining on some poor human's soul and becoming a world-destroying angel of death."

Everette muttered something, but it was too quiet for anyone to hear. Dacuel smiled reassuringly and held his shoulder. "What is it, Ev?"

"Isn't there any sort of counter?" Everette asked. "I get why this soul thing is dangerous, but there's gotta be some kind of balance to it, right?"

"That's what we're hoping for," Father said. "King Asgore has his best scholars working on the problem. I'm sure they'll find a solution before things get out of hand."

Cathleen looked at him sadly. "I wish I could agree, but how can you be so certain?"

"I have to be," Father answered, "because I don't know what I'll do if I'm wrong."

"Die, probably," Syleth said.

Father nodded solemnly. "That is the unfortunate truth of it, yes."

Syleth clenched his wings. "And you're gonna let that happen? Why? Just let someone absorb a soul already. Problem solved."

Father scowled. "Listen, kid. If anyone absorbs a soul, your people will have to fight a war against all of humanity. You can't -"

Syleth threw open his wings and laughed bitterly. "Oh, yeah? Like that's not going to happen anyway? You're telling me we should just lie down and let the humans slaughter us?!"

"We don't know enough about this power," Father said. "It's too dangerous. With just six souls, Bora had the power to wipe out an entire village. What if she had gotten ten? A hundred? A thousand? It damn well could be the end of the world."

Syleth scoffed. "You need to grow a spine, Chieftain. I can't believe such a pathetic man is in charge of this village."

An inferno roared in Cathleen's crimson eyes as she glared at Syleth. "Watch your tongue."

"Oh, I'm sorry," Syleth said with a condescending bow. "Did I hurt your poor pacifist feelings? If your sorry excuse for a father keeps this up, we'll all -"

Cathleen slammed her fist into Syleth's jaw. The blow sent him reeling as he gasped with pain and shock. Feeling a slight sting in her hand, Cathleen stared daggers into him. "Call either of us weak again, and I'll snap that beak of yours."

Elara gasped as her eyes widened in terror. "H-hey! Cut it out! Both of you! We're all friends here, aren't we?"

Dacuel frowned. "Whoa there, Cath. Isn't that a bit much?"

Cathleen huffed as she kept her crimson eyes on Syleth. No one talked to her father like that. No one. As she raised her fist for another punch, Father reached out and grabbed her shoulder. "Cathleen, no!"

Cathleen gasped and stopped in her tracks. "Huh?"

Holding the spot where she had struck him, Syleth gave another bitter laugh. "Thanks for letting me know whose side you're on."

She grimaced. "Th-that's not…"

Father turned her over so she was facing him. "What are you doing?!" he yelled. "Control your temper, Cathleen! You know better than this!"

Cathleen took a deep breath and lowered her fist. She was still angry, but she did regret her snap reaction. Even if Syleth was being an asshole, she shouldn't have lashed out like that. She turned back towards him and bowed her head. "I'm sorry, Syleth. That was unbecoming of me. I will make no excuses."

Syleth hissed. "Not enough."

Cathleen frowned, but she nodded in understanding. "Yes, I imagine a mere apology won't -"

"No," Syleth said.

Cathleen blinked in confusion. "I beg your pardon?"

"If you were really afraid, you would agree with me," Syleth said.

Her lips parted as Syleth's words sunk in. He thinks I'm taking it too lightly? Cathleen thought. The accusation cut deep. If she was really concerned for the safety of her people - her friends - wouldn't she do everything in her power to protect them? She looked at her father. Why was he more scared of the monsters' power than the Alliance's war?

"We're all afraid," Father said, "but we can't let that fear control our judgment. The solution is to destroy that power, not use it. Stealing another's soul is a sin that never needs to be committed, and I'll be damned if it ever happens under my watch."

"I'm inclined to agree," Dacuel chimed in. "I just hope we can get rid of it before it's too late."

Elara smiled cheerfully. "That's the spirit! Asgore and his friends will fix this right away!"

"But there's gotta be something we can do," Everette said. He hummed. "I wonder if the library has anything that could help. I really am shocked that the soulologists hadn't predicted this sooner. N-not that I'm trying to point fingers at anyone!"

Dacuel sighed wistfully. "Ah, Ev. Always lost in your books."

Everette pursed his lips. "Umm, are you making fun of me?"

"Make fun of you?" Dacuel asked incredulously. "How could I make fun of you? Your librarian skills are going to save us all one day. I could never mock that."

Everette nervously averted his eyes. "Uh, yeah, can't tell if you're being sarcastic or not."

Smiling playfully, Dacuel held his chest as if an arrow had pierced it. "Everette, you wound me! How could you doubt the sincerity of my friendship? I would never Everette lie to you, Everette! Ever!"

Syleth and Cathleen both groaned. How could he make jokes like that in such dire circumstances? As Cathleen had told him, he needed to take things more seriously.

Everette smiled. "Sorry, Dacuel. I know you care."

"Of course I care," Dacuel said. "Now, get to that library and tell us exactly how to convince the Alliance not to burn our village to the ground."

"Yes, I will!" Everette exclaimed. "Our future depends on it! I won't let you down!" He turned and immediately ran into the distance.

Cathleen chuckled. "And he's off."

Dacuel grinned. "Hear that, Cath? 'Our future depends on it!' I get the sense that he wasn't talking about the village, if you know what I mean." He waggled his eyebrows.

She blushed. "Oh, well, I'm not the sort of person to ask about that kind of thing."

Elara squealed. "Ooooh, that is so cute! I mean, I know we have more important things to worry about, but still!"

"Yeah," Dacuel said. "Anyway, how are you doing, Elara?"

She smiled. "About as well as you'd expect."

"That bad, huh?" Dacuel asked.

Elara nodded. "I know the Alliance isn't pure evil or anything, but they're pure evil!"

"Oh, I love contradictions!" Dacuel quipped. "I just hate them so much!"

"I mean, I get it," Elara said. "Every human has a soul, every monster can take a soul, who knows how powerful a monster could get with enough souls, but can they not give us some time to figure it out before doing anything rash?"

"You know what I don't get?" Dacuel asked. "Why underground?"

Cathleen stroked her chin as she contemplated their situation. "As much as I hate to admit it, the quarantine does seem like a fair compromise. It would give the monsters all the time they need to find some balancing measure without being a threat, and once they succeed, the humans can set them free again."

Syleth folded his wings. "Hmph, how naïve."

"Okay, I follow that much," Dacuel said, "but why underground, specifically? This barrier can't just block off the entrance to a cave, right? Wouldn't it have to be a full box? Sphere? Pyramid? Tetrahedron? Whatever, it's gotta surround them completely, right? Otherwise they could just dig a tunnel back to the surface and forget the barrier ever existed."

"Yeah," Elara said. "The proposed barrier would be summoned by seven of humanity's greatest magicians, and only a power equivalent to the combined might of seven human souls could destroy it. The monsters would never come anywhere close to that. Fully surrounded, they'd never be able to escape."

"Right," Dacuel said, "so why not just let them have their own territory above ground, where the sun does shine, and where the harvest doesn't suck?"

"Well," Elara said, "that's because… huh…"

Cathleen hummed. "I get the feeling you are questioning things not meant to be questioned."

"That's humanity for you," Syleth muttered.

"And how did the good King Asgore react to this underground barrier idea?" Dacuel asked.

"Oh, he was not happy at all," Elara answered. "He swears that he and his people will fight to the death before going down there."

"Huh, I'm impressed," Syleth said. "Maybe that pushover has half a spine after all."

"Makes sense," Dacuel said. "The least the Alliance could do is make a better offer than underground."

Cathleen frowned. "I certainly see your point," she said. "Segregating all of monsterkind is one thing, but underground? What purpose could that possibly serve?"

"Isn't it obvious?" Syleth asked. "They want to dwindle our numbers, watch us slowly die off to starvation while they kick back and relax with the surface all to themselves. Separate but equal? Please, they want to dominate us. They won't be satisfied until we're all dust beneath their feet."

Cathleen wished she could dispute that, but how could she? He was right. Not even a year ago she would have laughed at the idea of humanity uniting under one banner, but here they were, forming a global alliance to wage war against monsterkind. She couldn't blame Syleth for hating them.

"… so," Elara said, "how's everyone doing? Anything exciting happen while I was gone?"

Cathleen smirked. "Changing the subject? Very well. Harvest was a bit lacking, but otherwise it's been business as usual."

"Business as usual?" Dacuel asked. "Are you crazy? Everette killed a deer today, thanks to the guidance of yours truly. It will be a feast for kings."

"Oh, yummy!" Elara exclaimed. "Can it also be a feast for Elaras?"

"Sure, I'll save you a sliver," Dacuel said.

Elara pouted. "Aww, just a sliver? Come on, Dacuel. I traveled halfway across the world trying to convince pompous nobles not to join the Alliance, all while my father was breathing down my neck. Can't you help a poor, tormented mage out?"

Dacuel laughed. "I'm kidding; you can have as much as you want, unless you're so hungry you can eat the whole deer."

Elara grinned and threw up her arm excitedly. "Yay!"

"Let's meet at the campground after sunset," Dacuel said. "Don't worry, I'll pry Everette away from his books, or at least away from the library with a bag full of books. He'll be there."

Cathleen's mouth watered thinking about that fish. "A fine plan," she said. "Perhaps we can discuss solutions to our ongoing crisis while we eat."

Dacuel sighed. "It's always business with you, Cath, but it is a crisis. I'll give you a pass for this one."

Cathleen cracked a challenging smile. "Oh? You think I need your permission? As much as you mock me for it, I will become Chieftain of this village one day, and you'd do well to remember who's in charge."

Dacuel stretched his arms around the back of his head. "Careful, Cath. You're not gonna end up being some ruthless tyrant, are you? Your people have rights too, you know."

"But of course," Cathleen said. "I don't intend to trample on your freedom like those Alliance pigs, but I won't be held back, either." She balled her hand into a tight fist. "We must crush anyone who dares threaten us."

"Sure, sure," Dacuel said. "You can tell me all about your grand scheme to destroy the Alliance over dinner. I'll see you there."

With a casual wave, Dacuel walked away and disappeared into the village. Meanwhile, Elara looked at Cathleen and smiled. "Well, it was nice to see you again."

She nodded. "Indeed, though I wish it was under better circumstances."

"Yep," Elara said. "See you at dinner."

Cathleen waved goodbye. "See you, Elara."

As Elara left, Cathleen looked awkwardly at Syleth. "Hey, I really am sorry for losing my control. I am on your side, Syleth. I swear."

Syleth's eyes darted coldly between her and Father. "We'll see about that." He flapped his wings and flew away into air, leaving Cathleen alone with her father.

Cathleen sighed. She still wasn't sure who was right. She looked at Father for guidance. "Father, are you sure we shouldn't use that power?"

"We can't," Father said. "We'd be like children playing with fire; it's not an option."

Cathleen was surprised by the conviction in his voice. "How is this such an easy decision for you?"

"I never said it was," Father answered. "I admit, I understand why Seth and Syleth are so opposed to my choice. We are risking everything we have, but I know it's the right decision. War is a disease, and you don't cure a disease by spreading it to others."

Cathleen pursed her lips. It was a fine sentiment, but not always a practical one. If the Alliance attacked, she wanted to be ready.

"I can tell you're doubtful," Father said. "That's alright. Just promise you'll remember one thing; those who don't know the dangers of wielding power are doomed to be ruled by it. Never forget that."

Right. Like Dacuel said, a ruler had to take care not to be a tyrant. She nodded. "I will take those words to heart; I promise."

Father smiled. "That's the most I can ask for. I love you, Cathleen."

She smiled and held him in a warm embrace. "I love you, too, Father."

Father hugged her back. "Your mother would be so proud to see how you've grown."

Ah, come on. Don't bring her up. Reaching her fill of sappiness for one day, Cathleen pulled away from Father. "Alright, I still have some work to attend to. I'll see you later."

"I'll let you get to it," Father said. "See you later, Cathleen."

She began walking back to the supply wagon. She was looking forward to dinner, but it was difficult to relax knowing how much danger the village was in. Until they were safe, she wouldn't be able to truly rest.

The sun began to set.

As the moon shined overhead, Cathleen sat with her friends by a warm campfire. Well, not all of them. Dacuel and Elara ate venison while Everette's face was buried in a book, but Syleth's absence loomed over Cathleen like a dark cloud. How badly had she angered him? She hoped they would be back on speaking terms soon.

She looked at the grilled fish skewered on a stick in her hand. At least I have salmon. She sunk her teeth into her it. Every bite was full of exquisite flavor, almost as good as Mother's cooking. Ah, I needed this.

Dacuel, Syleth, and Elara ate their plates of venison, while Everette's face was buried in a book. Dacuel leaned over his shoulder. "Aren't you gonna eat?" Dacuel asked, his mouth full of meat. "This is your victory; you gotta claim the spoils!"

"Right, sorry," Everette apologized. He popped a piece of venison into his mouth and kept reading. Cathleen hoped he was learning something useful.

Dacuel swallowed his venison. "Anything interesting?"

"Well," Everette said, "I can understand why monsters with human souls are so powerful. It's estimated that the average human soul contains the strength of about one-million monster souls. However, our physical bodies prevent us from realizing the full potential of our souls. Monsters, on the other hand, are mostly made of magic, allowing them much more control of it. Combine the magical superiority of monsters with the raw might of humans, and you get a being that could level entire cities, if not more."

"Yeah, that's great and all," Dacuel said, "but I was really hoping there'd be some good news involved."

"Still looking," Everette said. "Trying my best, but it's hard to research something that was only just discovered. No one knew that putting someone's soul in another body was a thing. Although…"

"Yes…?" Dacuel asked.

Everette shook his head. "Nothing, forget it."

"No, that wasn't nothing," Dacuel pressed. "I really want to hear what you have to say."

Everette nervously shifted his eyes. "Okay, but can you promise to keep an open mind?"

Dacuel winked. "My mind is always open for you, Ev."

"... right," Everette said. "Okay..." He took a deep breath. "Demons."

The campground was silent, save for the cicadas' song and the flickering flame of the campfire.

"… demons?" Elara asked. "Like, with the horns and brimstone and stuff?"

"N-no, not those demons," Everette stammered. "I know it sounds crazy, but I've read all kinds of stories - real stories - where people claim they were manipulated and ultimately possessed by a demon. I'm starting to think there may be some truth to them."

No frown Cathleen wore could adequately express her concern for Everette's psychological well-being. "Umm, I see. What makes you say that?"

"The concept has been proven," Everette asserted. "Thanks to Bora, we know that it's possible to store multiple minds in one body. If a human consciousness can exist within a monster, why not another human? I think -"

"Umm, actually," Elara interjected, "soulologists have proven that a human cannot absorb another human soul. Humans and monsters can only absorb a soul of the opposite race, so I really don't think this demon thing is possible."

Everette's eyes remained lost in thought. "Well, maybe humans can't absorb the soul, but what about something else? Hmm…" His face lit up like he was onto something big. "You know that tradition we have at monster funerals? When a monster dies, we collect their dust and scatter it on their favorite object, so their essence will live on within that object. Perhaps when a human soul shatters, it's possible for their essence to persist with the help of another human."

Cathleen stared at him in disbelief. She didn't buy his theory at all. Human ghosts? It was absurd. Everette was grasping at straws, and it was getting them nowhere. She shot him a reproachful glare. "Everette, may I remind you that not everything you read in a book is true?"

Everette quivered anxiously. "I-I'm aware, but I've checked several sources and it seems to add up. It's not just common criminals. Incredibly powerful killers like Chidi the Cunning and Eleanor the Cruel have claimed to have received their strength from demons, and others like Michael the Tormentor have claimed to be demons themselves. Th-they're not all bad, though! The legendary hero Jason the Wise said he was guided by the voice of a kind monk. Naturally, no one believed their stories, but -"

"Exactly," Cathleen said. "They are nothing more than lunatics wracked with delusions. You'd do well not to believe such childish nonsense."

Everette frowned miserably. "But…"

"Hey, let's give him a chance," Dacuel said. "Ev, let's say you're right about these ghost people; where exactly are you going with this?"

Everette nodded. "Y-yes, of course. If these demons are as powerful as the legends say, I believe they could counter the threat monsters with human souls pose. If we can just find one and get them on our side, we could learn so much."

"Wait, wouldn't that just make things worse?" Elara asked. "If monsters are bad because they're too strong, and if demons are even stronger, wouldn't they just be the new problem?"

"N-not necessarily," Everette said. "I'm hoping that it could provide balance somehow. Strong being of monster origin, strong being of human origin. This way it won't be one-sided, so…"

Cathleen's brow furrowed even more intensely. She refused to squander another second on this insanity. "It doesn't matter!" she snapped. "I guarantee that demons won't be a threat to anyone, for there is no such thing. They don't exist. Quit wasting our time on wish-fulfilling fairy tales and focus on reality!"

Everette looked away from her in a mix of bewilderment and fear. "Wh… why are you so opposed to the idea?"

Cathleen paused. Why? Did that really need an explanation? Because… it was absurd. Humans coming back as demons? That wasn't how… "That's not how it works. Death is the inevitable end that awaits us all. Death is final. Death is absolute. When you die, you don't come back. To believe otherwise is merely… wishful thinking." A salty liquid welled up in her eyes.

She wished it weren't true. Really, she did, but she couldn't live in a fantasy. Reality was cruel, and it could take those she loved most at any time, without any warning. Demons? Resurrection? If only…

"I… guess it does sound too good to be true," Everette said, "but what if it is? Shouldn't we at least…?"

No, don't…

Don't give me hope.

"… try?"

Cathleen shook her head. "No, that would only drive us mad. No matter how much we may want to, we can't do the impossible. The dead are gone forever, and we have to accept that."

Elara's eyes widened in understanding. "Oh, Cathy… I don't think that's what he's trying to do. He's not saying anyone can come back. Right, Everette?"

"Uh, yeah," Everette said. "I don't think just anyone can do it. For one thing, all those figures I mentioned had one thing in common; they all had red souls, the soul of determination. It's just a theory, but I'm guessing that only humans with an exceptionally strong determination soul are able to resurrect as demons, and they need another powerful soul to awaken them. That would explain why they're so rare. Only the strongest few can do it."

Cathleen smiled wryly. Only red souls, huh? Mother's soul had been yellow. Even in Everette's fantasies, it would be impossible.

"You okay, Cath?" Dacuel asked.

She wiped her eyes and ate the rest of her fish. Once she was done, she tossed the stick into the fire and stood. "It's getting late," she said. "I should return home. See you tomorrow."

As she turned to leave, she felt Elara's hand grab her shoulder. "Cathleen…"

She looked back and saw all three of them staring at her with sad eyes, and she cursed herself for showing such weakness. How could I be so pathetic? It's my job to lead them. She regained her strength and faced them like steel. "I'm fine," she said. "After all, I wasn't the only one who suffered that day. I'm no worse off than the rest of you."

Just look at Syleth. He had it much worse than I did.

"Doesn't mean you don't deserve help," Dacuel said. "If you need a shoulder to cry on, I'm available anytime. Even after five years, I know a scar like that can still hurt."

She smiled and shook her head. "Please, don't make me sound like such a crybaby. I'm a big girl; I can get over it."

"I'm sorry, Cathleen," Everette apologized. "I should have known that -"

Cathleen felt like she had been punched in the gut. Everette wasn't the one who needed to apologize. "No," she said. "The fault was mine. You're only trying to help, and I overreacted. I'm sorry."

"Still," Everette said, "I'm sorry I brought up those memories."

Cathleen sighed. "Alright, but I really am weary. I'm sure a good night's rest will make everything better."

"Okay," Elara said. "Goodnight, Cathy."

"Goodnight," Everette said.

"'Night, Cath," Dacuel said.

After bidding farewell, Cathleen headed home.

As he sat inside his home, Seth heard a knock on the door. Normally, he would have hoped that it was his daughter, but tonight, there was someone else that he wanted to see. He wondered if his wish would be granted. He got up and walked to the door. "Who is it?" he called.

"It's me."

So it is. Seth opened the door and greeted his guest. "Mr. Kass, you have something to ask of me?"

Syleth nodded. "May I come in?"

"Of course," Seth said. He stepped aside and allow Syleth to enter. He closed the door and looked at him intently. "How may I be of service?"

"You know why I'm here," Syleth said. "Will you give it to me?"

Without hesitation, Seth nodded. "Yes, I fear it is the only way to save our village."

"Then there's nothing more to say," Syleth said. "Will you do it, or shall I?"

Brimming with determination, Seth drew his sword. "I'm counting on you, Kass." He gripped his sword with both hands and held it against his neck.

This is what I must do. If I don't, Elara will…

Suddenly, an icy fear seized Seth's heart. If he did what Syleth had asked… they had already lost Elara's mother to the bandits. Without him, Elara would be all alone, and he would forever be parted with her. Was she ready for that? Was he ready for that?

"Father, no!" Elara screamed. "Don't do it! Don't leave me, too! Please!"

His blade trembled in his hands. He had to scan his surroundings to be sure, but that voice was only in mind. Elara wasn't here, but if she were…

Seth lowered his blade. "On second thought, perhaps it wouldn't be wise to act so rashly. Let's wait before resorting to such drastic measures."

Syleth's eyes twitched with fury. "You coward…"

Seth looked away in shame. Perhaps he was a coward, but he couldn't abandon Elara unless he absolutely had to. "I'm not saying I won't do it," he said. "Let's just take some time to see how it plays out first. Perhaps -"

"No!" Syleth yelled. "You said it yourself; this is the only way! But now that it's your head on the line, you suddenly think otherwise? Go to hell!"

"If the need arises, I will make that sacrifice immediately," Seth swore, "but until then -"

Syleth shook his head and stepped forward. "If you won't give it willingly, then I'll just -"

Seth thrust his sword, stopping the blade just before it pierced Syleth's neck. He froze stiff, but his gaze continued to burn with rage rather than fear. They both knew that a monster with the body of a ten-year-old was no match for a human knight. "I don't want to," Seth warned, "but I will."

Syleth snarled as he backed away. "You're all worthless. When this village burns and you hear your daughter's dying screams, know that you could have stopped it if you weren't so weak." He barged out the door and flew away into the night sky.

With a deep breath, Seth sheathed his sword. His own actions had shocked him. He had been certain that he would allow Syleth to take his soul, but when the moment had come, his feet had grown cold. He wanted - needed - to protect Elara, but he couldn't throw his life away, either. Was finding a way to save the village without dying really so much to ask for? Self-preservation was the key to victory.

Don't worry, Elara, he thought. If it comes to it, I will give my life to protect you, but until then, I will stay by your side.

Seth waited for Elara to return home.

Guard Dog shook himself awake as his heavy eyelids threatened to blind him. He looked at the dark sky, no sign of dawn yet. Guard Dog was committed to the safety of Garnet Village, but he would have been lying if he said that the night shift wasn't painfully dull. Nothing in, nothing out. Just a closed gate and the dark of night. All he needed to do was stay alert on the off chance that someone attacked, but that hadn't happened in five years.

However, Guard Dog was more tense than usual, knowing that peace between humans and monsters was on the verge of collapse. The Alliance could attack at any moment, and if they did, it was up to him to warn the village. Even a few minutes of preparation could make the difference between life and death. He had to remain alert; they were all counting on him.

Unfortunately, he couldn't see very far through the darkness. Fyson - the hawk monster in the watchtower - had better visibility. Guard Dog glanced at him. "Anything out there?"

"Nothing," Fyson responded.

All clear, then. The only enemy around was excruciating boredom. That wasn't to say Guard Dog wanted trouble, but he needed something to do. Maybe he could try writing a book. What could he write about? One night, Guard Dog guarded the village, and nothing happened.

He sighed. He shouldn't have been thinking such delinquent thoughts. Sure, his job may not have been the most exhilarating, but it was crucial to the villagers' safety. At least he had some fine allies by his side. He looked at Frederick, his fellow guardsman standing on the other end of the gate. He was a deadly warrior who had single-handedly killed nine bandits during the raid five years ago. If the Alliance attacked, Guard Dog knew that Frederick would make them pay.

Frederick's gaze remained fixed into the distance without a hint of weariness. Was he truly as steadfast as he looked? "Hey, how are you holding up?" Guard Dog asked.

"I'm good," Frederick replied. "Don't fall asleep on me."

Guard Dog turned away in embarrassment. He must have seen him almost dozing off. With renewed vigor, he peered into the surrounding field with his eyes wide open. No matter how dull it was, he would defend Garnet Village until…

"Mmmph!"

Guard Dog gagged as something crushed his neck while a sharp pain pierced his chest. He looked down and saw the blade that had stabbed right through his armor, into his heart. His mind screamed with pain and confusion. Wh-what? How?!

As his strength waned, he turned to his right and saw Frederick suffering the same fate. A figure clad in black leather armor had grabbed him by the neck and plunged a dagger into his heart. Guard Dog looked right and saw Fyson in the grip of a third assassin. He cursed silently. How had they not seen them? Invisibility? That had to be it. Even with the cover of night, there was no other way they would have missed them.

"C-cowards," Guard Dog wheezed. It wasn't fair. They hadn't given him a chance. No warrior deserved to die like this. If he had to die, he wanted to die fighting, not to an assassin's blade. Anger burned in his soul, but it wasn't enough to stop his body from dissolving into dust. He had sworn to protect the village, and he had failed. He wished…

The village, what would happen to…?

Syleth couldn't sleep.

How could he? There was a job that he needed to do, because no one else would do it. One soul was all he needed to save monsterkind from destruction. One soul, and millions of lives would be spared. He just needed one soul. One human was all it took to save his species.

But nobody would.

Jerald? Useless. Cathleen? Useless. Dacuel? Useless. Seth? Oh, Seth… Syleth had made the foolish mistake of giving his hopes up for him, but as he should have known, Seth had refused to deliver. No one was going to give up their soul willingly.

So Syleth had to take one.

He wasn't an idiot. He knew that most humans would destroy his frail magical body without breaking a sweat. He needed to be smart about it. Maybe if he just payed a visit to the hospice, one of the fleshbags would croak and leave their soul free for the taking, no murder required. It was perfectly ethical! Why hadn't he thought of this sooner? Syleth spread his wings and flew into the sky.

… where was the hospice again?

Damn it. The village wasn't very big, but the hospice wasn't a place Syleth had frequented. Monsters rarely got sick, after all. No matter. Maybe the guard could point him in the right direction. He flew to the village gate and looked for them.

No one was there.

Perching on a nearby roof, Syleth tilted his head. Where were they? Those slackers hadn't left their posts, had they? He peered into the watchtower. No guard was inside, but he saw…

Syleth gasped. Is that…? He hopped off the roof and flew into the watchtower. He scratched his talon along the floor, drawing a line through the gray coating. No mistake. It was the dust of a monster. Someone had…? He turned towards the gate, and he saw another dust pile, as well as the bloody corpse of a human guard.

Syleth felt a nauseating pain in his stomach. Was this how it felt to be sick?

He shook it off. Where were the killers…? Syleth heard footsteps. Lots of them. He looked into the field outside the gate, and his eyes nearly popped out of his skull. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of armored soldiers marched towards the gate of Garnet Village, about one minute away. A jolt ran through Syleth's spine. An Alliance army was one minute away from breaching the gate, and they had no idea.

Trembling, Syleth glanced at the dust beneath his talons. I-idiot! You had one job!

Wait, if they had killed the guard, then…? Among the Alliance army, he saw several heads turn to face him. Oh, no. He had to move, and he needed to sound the alarm, now. On the dusty floor, he saw the guard's blowhorn. He snatched it with his talons, flew into the air, and blew on it as hard as he could. The instrument boomed loudly enough to wake the whole village. Relief washed over him. At least they…

"AAAAAAHHHH!"

With a flash of light, an excruciating electric current ran through Syleth's body. Some Alliance mage must have shot lightning at him. He could barely keep his eyes open, and he lost control of his wings. He went plummeting into the village below.

No, no, no, no, no!

He landed with an earth-shattering thud, and everything went black.

Cathleen gasped as the sound of a blowhorn immediately woke her up. The alarm?! Was it…? No, it couldn't be. Not even a day after Seth and Elara had returned, and they were under attack? It was too soon. Were they really out of time already?

She jumped again as a bright flash of light poured through her windows. Shortly after, the ground shook with a booming tremor. What was happening?! Cathleen raced out of her bed. Good thing she had decided to sleep fully clothed, aside from her boots of course. She put them on and grabbed her combat axe, and she ran out the door into the hall, nearly crashing into Father. He glanced at the axe in her hand and nodded. "Good."

Without wasting any time, they both ran down the stairs and through the front door. As they dashed outside, Cathleen saw several meteors of flame rain down towards the village, illuminating everything with a red light. She and Father dived out of the way as one crashed into their house, engulfing the roof in fire. Cathleen clenched her fist. She knew who had done this, and she was going to kill as many as she could.

Father clicked this tongue. "How are they already in range? The guards should have warned us!"

Cathleen turned to the direction of the south gate. "Let's go ask them."

Father nodded. "Agreed, hurry."

They sprinted for the main gate. As they moved through the streets, villagers crept out of their homes with scared and confused faces, and as more fire battered the streets and houses, they screamed, fleeing in terror as fire spread around them. Cathleen whimpered, knowing it was going to be even worse than last time.

But she couldn't stop. She kept running with Father through the burning village, keeping a close eye above. She gasped as a meteor struck the ground just a few feet away from her. Embers and dirt splashed all over her tunic, but fortunately she was unharmed. Father tugged on her arm to keep her steady. They rounded a corner, and the front gate was in sight.

At least, it would have been, if it weren't obscured by a hoard of Alliance soldiers pouring through.

Cathleen gaped at the sight of them. Dozens of soldiers armed with swords and spears marched into the village. It didn't make sense. The guards should have seen them coming long before they reached the gates. They should have had more time to prepare. What had happened? Were they…?

The soldiers spread out and broke into the surrounding homes. Screams rang out from inside. Trembling, Cathleen brandished her axe. She couldn't kill them all, but…

Father grabbed her hand and pulled her away. "Get back!"

Part of Cathleen wanted to refuse. She wanted to stand and fight to her last breath, but her survival instincts screamed at her to retreat. The latter won. She followed her father back towards the village center, with the Alliance army marching behind them.

Panting, Cathleen slowly processed their situation. Somehow, the Alliance had breached the front gate without warning. Their objective was clear, exterminate everyone in the village. They didn't have nearly enough strength to defeat them. Could they run away? Were they surrounded? Regardless, it seemed like their only option.

No, there was another way. There was one path to victory. If they wanted to survive, they had to do exactly what the Alliance feared.

"Chieftain!"

As they continued their retreat, they spotted Seth and Elara running in the opposite direction. They approached each other and stopped. "What's the situation?" Seth asked.

"They've breached the gate!" Father said. "Don't know how, but they're already inside!"

"Already?!" Seth exclaimed. "Then, we must…"

With a dark sigh, Father closed his eyes.

Seth breathed deeply. "We have no choice. Someone needs to sacrifice their soul."

Cathleen knew he was right. She hadn't been sure before, but the Alliance army had extinguished every spark of doubt. They had to do it, or they would all die. She stared at her father and pleaded. "Please, Father."

Frowning painfully, he shook his head. "We can't..."

Cathleen's heart sank like a rock. Even as his village was burning around him, Father still refused to use it? How could he? He would let his people die? He would let her die? No, Cathleen couldn't accept it. She tugged on her father's shoulders and begged. "Please! If we don't do it, it's all over! We'll all die! Don't let that happen! You can't let that happen! Please, don't let us die!"

Father whimpered. "Cathleen..."

"... I don't want to die," she whispered.

As Father hesitated, the village trembled while the Alliance's magic continued to bombard it. He stared at her with a miserable grimace. "That's not fair."

"How?!" Cathleen shouted. "Without that power, you're condemning us all to death! We have to use it! We..." A tear trickled down her cheek. "Please..."

Part of Cathleen felt ashamed for resorting to emotional blackmail, but it was necessary. She had to make Father see reason, so what if she had to abuse him for it? Everyone's lives were at stake. They couldn't hold back. If Father wouldn't listen, she'd do it herself.

Mercifully, it didn't come to that. After another long pause, Father finally gave a solemn nod. "Okay... I'll do it. We just need to find a monster willing to -"

Elara gasped and pointed down the street. "They're coming!"

Cathleen turned her head and saw several villagers fleeing from the advancing army. An Alliance archer fired an arrow into a human villager's back, sending him sprawling on the ground. A Frogitt hoped away, but they were too slow to avoid the lance plunging into their head. A Temmie screamed as an Alliance mage set her ablaze with a fireball. Cathleen suppressed the urge to vomit. It was so much worse than last time.

With shivering hands, Elara raised her staff. "H-hey, I'll hold them off. You guys get going."

"Elara, no!" Seth yelled. "Run away! Please!"

There was no time to argue. The Alliance army was seconds away from trampling them. A vortex of black energy swirled above the tip of Elara's staff. Suddenly, dozens of dark spikes burst forward into the approaching army. The magic tore through their armor like paper, and the entire front row fell to the ground bleeding. This rattled the troops behind them and gave them pause, clearly stunned by the sudden resistance, but a handful of archers and mages returned fire.

Seth jumped in front of Elara and raised his shield, deflecting the Alliance's arrows and spells. "Go!" he yelled.

Cathleen grit her teeth. What should I do? Fight with them, or help Father? He might not survive on his own, but if I hold my ground, I can buy more time…

"Keep moving!" Father ordered. He continued heading for the village center. Cathleen looked back at Seth and Elara as they kept the Alliance pinned down. She felt like she was being forced to choose between them and her father. She didn't want to abandon either of them. What could she…?

She had to look at this objectively. What was more important? Guarding this one street, or ensuring that a monster obtained a human soul? The answer was clear. Sending Seth and Elara a silent prayer, Cathleen resumed following her father.

I'm sorry, but we must save everyone we can.

Cathleen and Father got as much distance as they could, not stopping until they were in the middle of the village. Humans and monsters alike stood paralyzed with terror as the Alliance's meteors kept battering the area. The streets were littered with craters and debris, and buildings began to crumble in flames. Cathleen tried not to think about how many of her fellow villagers were dying inside, too afraid to leave their shelter even as it came crashing down around them. She had to focus.

Father's presence somewhat snapped the villagers out of their terror. They looked to him, desperate for guidance. He spread his arms and addressed his people. "Everyone! As you can see, the Alliance has come to destroy our village! They will show us no mercy! They won't stop until they exterminate every last person - human or monster - who lives within these walls! I had hoped it wouldn't come to this, but there is only one way we can possibly hope to fight back!" He bowed deeply. "To any monster who is willing, I offer you my soul! Take it, and use that power to save us all!"

Several moments passed, but no one spoke. Not a single monster stepped forward.

"… anyone?" Cathleen called. "Please! It's the only way to save everyone!"

Still no response. The monsters gave them nothing but blank stares. Cathleen didn't understand. Father was volunteering to sacrifice his life for the one thing they needed to survive, but they wouldn't reach out and take it. Why wouldn't they?! Did they want to die?!

Cathleen swore as another meteor landed close by. They didn't have time for this. Cathleen scanned the crowd of monsters, and her gaze settled on a turtle monster named Garson. He was the village's blacksmith, and his brother served in King Asgore's Royal Guard. Perhaps he'd be willing? Cathleen approached him. "What about you, Garson? Will you take my father's soul and defend your village?"

Garson shook his head. "And become a horrible beast like Bora? No, I think not. I'll take death instead, thank you."

Cathleen gasped in shock. "You're serious? You'd rather die than take another's soul?"

"That's what I said, yes," Garson replied.

Cathleen's jaw dropped in exasperation. Unbelievable. The monsters were truly willing to die for such a foolish ideal? It was madness. No, there had to be someone. She turned her attention to the rest of the monsters. What about…? She looked at Builder Wolf the carpenter. He… he was strong. Maybe…? "Builder Wolf?"

"… no," Builder Wolf said.

Okay, umm… what about…? She faced her next candidate. "Madjick?"

"Please and hell no!" Madjick said.

Cathleen gulped. "U-uh… Tsunderhorse?"

"No," Tsunderhorse said. "Just… no. For real."

"… Slimey the Slime?" Cathleen asked.

Slimey, an adorable ball of blue slime, backed away nervously. They extended a nub from their body and pointed it towards themselves. "Who, me? Umm, I'm really flattered, but I think I'll - "

A meteor crashed into Slimey and splattered them.

Cathleen whimpered, but she steeled herself and looked back at the crowd. "See that? If you do nothing, this will happen to all of us. Please, someone! Anyone! Help us!"

Nobody answered.

Cathleen growled. Where the hell was Syleth? He should have been all over this. He was the only monster in the village who had pushed for soul absorption, but as soon as they needed him, he had disappeared. Where was he?

She heard footsteps. She turned and saw the Alliance army closing in. Damn it, they were out of time. Seth and Elara's sacrifices had been for nothing.

Father clicked his tongue. "There's never any damn time."

No, I can't give up yet. Cathleen looked at her father. "We need to find Syleth."

"Seems so," Father said. He pointed deeper into the village. "Let's hope he's back there; it's our only chance."

While they started moving, Garson faced the Alliance army and raised his hammer. "Come on! We don't need any freaking souls! Let's go!"

A handful of brave villagers rose up and clashed with the enemy. Cathleen knew they didn't stand a chance. Like Seth and Elara, they would slow the enemy down, but at this point, how much left was there to save?

She couldn't think about it. Her legs felt like they were going to collapse from the constant running, but she didn't stop. She and Father slipped into an alleyway and headed for the North District, where Syleth lived. She hoped he was there. If not, they were already dead.

Cathleen and Father stopped. Two Alliance soldiers blocked their path, and three more approached from behind. Cathleen brandished her axe. "About time."

While Father stepped towards the three enemies from behind, Cathleen charged to fight the two in front. One was armed with a spear, the other with a sword and shield. Cathleen swung her axe at the neck of the spear user, but he deflected it with the shaft of his lance. Meanwhile, the swordsman stepped in and lunged at her, aiming for the side of her ribcage. She jumped back and narrowly avoided the blade. She sidestepped another thrust from the spearman and swung the blade of her axe deep into his forehead.

The spearman's body immediately went limp. Blood poured out of the wound as Cathleen pried her axe out, and his body fell backwards to the ground. Cathleen turned just in time to dodge a downward swing from the swordsman, but he followed up with a shield bash to her jaw. Cathleen recoiled, dazed from the impact, but she managed to swing her axe. The swordsman blocked it with his shield, and he thrust his sword into Cathleen's gut.

Cathleen hissed with pain. So, this was how it felt to get stabbed. It hurt, but her fight-or-flight instinct helped her ignore it. She raised her axe and tried to bring it down into her enemy's sword arm. He pulled back before the swing connected. Cathleen clutched her wound as the sword left her body. She wouldn't survive without treatment; she wished Elara or Everette were around.

She stepped back to avoid another swing. Panting, she held up her axe, but with her wound, she wasn't sure if…

Suddenly, an arrow shot out of the Alliance soldier's neck. He fell forward and collapsed on the ground, and Cathleen saw Dacuel standing behind him. She grinned; she had never been so happy to see him.

Dacuel nocked another arrow and took aim at something behind her. Right, Father! Cathleen darted her head back. One solider was a bloody corpse on the ground, but the other two were still standing. Both were armed with swords and shields. Father had bloody cuts all over his body, but he swung his axe. One of the soldiers parried the strike with his shield, and the other ran his sword through Father's chest.

Cathleen froze.

Father…? No, you can't…

Dacuel loosed his arrow, and it flew into the neck of her father's killer. The final solider turned and charged at Dacuel. Somehow, Cathleen calmed her nerves enough to block the soldier's path, but he knocked her down with a swipe of his shield. Cathleen landed hard on her ass while the solider advanced. Dacuel fired another arrow, but the enemy blocked it. As Dacuel reached for another arrow, the solider swung his sword and sliced Dacuel's arm off.

Cathleen clenched her teeth and got back to her feet. She ran as fast as she could. As Dacuel cried out, the enemy solider thrust his sword into Dacuel's chest.

NO!

Cathleen gripped her axe with both hands and chopped the soldier's head off his shoulders, but it was too late. His headless body still had his sword through Dacuel's chest. Cathleen wrapped her arm around Dacuel's back and pulled the blade out. He winced as she did, bleeding heavily from both his severed arm and his punctured chest. Cathleen gently set him down against the wall and looked at him with tears in her eyes. "I'm sorry."

Dacuel coughed up blood. "Heh, d-don't worry about it, Cath. Y-you should get g-going while you c-can."

Cathleen looked at her father and ran to him. A pool of blood grew as his body lied on the ground. She lifted his head and looked into his lifeless green eyes. He was gone.

She sobbed; tears rained down on her father's corpse. It had happened so fast, but she knew it was real. She wished she had been strong enough to protect him. She held him tightly for a moment, but she quickly let go. There was no time to mourn. More soldiers could show up at any moment. She had to go.

As Cathleen stood back up, Dacuel called out to her. "H-hey, Cath. If you're looking for Syleth, I saw Everette carrying him."

Cathleen gasped. She ran to Dacuel and knelt towards him. "You did? Where are they?"

"Th-they went north," Dacuel said. "Probably t-to Ev's place. Th-think Syleth was unconscious."

Syleth was unconscious? That explained a lot. Cathleen hoped he wasn't dead. They needed him. She looked at Dacuel. "Thank you, I'll…" She frowned. Was Dacuel really beyond saving? She examined his wound; it had just missed his heart. Still, between that and his lost arm, he was losing a lot of blood, but maybe with healing magic…

Dacuel shook his head. "Just go, Cath. I'm done."

Cathleen whimpered. Even if that were true, she didn't want to leave him like this, not in so much pain.

Dacuel smiled. "Hey, I know I liked to joke around a lot, but I hope you know I never meant anything by it. I think y-you would have been a great leader, C-Cath. One your father would have been p-proud of."

More tears fell from Cathleen's eyes. "I k-know, Dacuel."

"You gotta go," Dacuel said. "A-and if you can, please, save Everette, or at the very least… make sure he doesn't suffer. P-please, I'm counting on…"

Dacuel's eyes ceased moving, and his shoulders slumped lifelessly. Cathleen sniffled. In those last moments, she felt like she had seen the real Dacuel for the first time. Wiping her eyes, she stood and faced her path forward. No time to mourn.

Alone, she kept moving. She clutched her bleeding wound as she limped ahead. Screams continued to ring out in the distance, and smoke from the fires grew denser. Cathleen navigated the alleyways, leaving behind a trail of blood. Everette's house wasn't much farther. She felt like she wanted to take a nap, but she couldn't stop. Keep moving, Cathleen. You're almost there.

About a minute later, she reached Everette's house, fortunately without running into more soldiers. Unfortunately, the house was a pile of burning wood. Hopefully they hadn't been inside. Maybe they were nearby? Cathleen limped around the burning home and searched behind it.

She found them. Everette sat with Syleth behind his house. There was a jar of herbs next to him, probably used to treat Syleth's injuries. Syleth was awake, giving Everette an expectant look. In Everette's hand was… a knife, pointed towards his heart.

'A-and if you can, please, save Everette.'

Cathleen couldn't let that happen. Now that her father was gone, it was her duty to save the village. It had to be her. "Everette!" She ran to him and grabbed the knife in his hand.

Everette jumped in shock. "C-Cathleen?"

"What are you doing?!" Syleth screamed.

"Don't do it!" Cathleen yelled. "Syleth, take my soul! I'll -"

A bright flash of light suddenly blinded Cathleen. As she covered her eyes, she heard Syleth scream. Lightning? Once her vision recovered, she saw Syleth convulse with magical electricity. A moment later, his body dissolved into dust, and his gray soul floated above the pile.

Cathleen's heart pounded.

What had she done?

With wide eyes, Everette reached into the pile of dust that was once Syleth. The dust fell through his fingers. He sobbed. "S-Syleth…"

Cathleen cursed herself. This was her fault. If she hadn't done anything, if she had let Syleth take Everette's soul, they could have saved everyone. She should have just stayed out of the way, but she had interfered and ruined everything.

Everette looked at Syleth's soul. He reached out to grab it, but another bolt of lightning shattered it to pieces. With flame burning in her crimson eyes, Cathleen turned to face the Alliance mage who had destroyed it. He was clad in a black hooded robe and carried a magic staff. She sprinted for him, axe held high. The mage pointed his staff at her, but she closed the distance before he could finish casting. Cathleen sliced his staff in half and tore through the solider's abdomen.

The mage whimpered in pain and staggered; Cathleen tackled him to the ground and slammed her axe into his chest. A beautiful scream rang out from his lips. Cathleen pulled her axe back up and rapidly hacked away, splattering the murderer's blood all over her body. He deserved it. He had just condemned an entire village of innocent people to death. If there was such a thing as hell, Cathleen hoped he burned in it for eternity.

The mage gave a final dying gurgle, and then his yellow soul came out of his body. Cathleen chopped it with her axe, and it shattered. A soul for a soul.

More soldiers came from both directions. Cathleen stood and faced them, drenched in the blood of the mage she had slain. There was over a dozen of them, but despite outnumbering her, Cathleen saw them quiver in their boots. Ha, as if those murderers had the right to fear death. Cathleen grinned and held up her bloodstained axe. Come on, I'm ready.

Behind her, Everette stabbed himself in the heart and laid down, bleeding out in Syleth's dust. Probably the smart way to go; he wouldn't turn to EXP for some Alliance dog. Still, Cathleen couldn't bring herself to do that. Even if it was futile, she had to go down fighting.

The enemy came at her with a line of spears. Cathleen would be skewered before she was within striking distance, so she didn't wait. She threw her axe at the solider in front of her. The blade lodged into his face, and he went down. Cathleen laughed. One more down. How many was that? Four? Four-to-one, not bad.

The Alliance's spears perforated Cathleen's body. Blood spurt out of her mouth. To think she had actually doubted allowing monsters to take human souls. She shouldn't have hesitated. She should have given Syleth her soul when she'd had the chance, but she had been too foolish. She had been a coward.

She had made the wrong decision.

Kill them. Kill them all.

Kill every last one of them.

Cathleen looked down at Everette's dead body, covered in Syleth's dust. She wanted everyone responsible dead, but… even more so, she wished she could bring them back. Why? Why do they have to die? It's not fair.

Don't let them.

Don't let them die!

Please…

Don't…

Cathleen died.

To be continued…