-----------------------------------------------------Chapter 23-------------------------------------------------The Black Slayer
End Game
Jessica
dilly_freak7_7@hotmail.com
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I dodged an attack and quickly dispatched my opponent, stepping out of the way as another charged me. I drove my sword in his back and smirked at the scream of intense pain. I stood at the ready, them realized that we had won. Cries of jubilation drifted up from the reamaining Zibach soldiers as the headed back to our base camp.
*Rei! Wait for us!* I heard in my mind as I started back. I stood and waited for my friends, the elite. Hell's Fire.
Hey guys' I said when they had joined me. Mark slung a friendly arm around my shoulders so I leaned against him, tired beyond belief.
Blade? Report please' I asked.
Out of our 3000, only 1568 were lost. Out of their 3400, they lost 2960. The rest ran like the wimps they are' she smiled.
Jason?'
We only used 2% of our magic today'
Great job you guys. Let's go home' On our way back to camp, we picked up our guymelefs and used them to get the wounded to the infirmary. We all went to our own tents, which were in a circle apart from the rest of the camp. I laid down on my cot but couldn't sleep. It had been two years since I had brought my friends here to complete Hell's Fire, and we had come so far. We were the best. Dilandau had given in after about three months and allowed us to train his Dragon Slayers, and they were almost as good as us. Almost. I reached my mind out to Zelas to asses her damage, knowing that it was bad. I heard Deathscythe and Terra reacting to their owners' minds, and not far off, Eagle and Tsunami. I was right. Zelas had taken so much damage, it was a wonder she worked at all. Her left arm was close to falling off, there were many electrical shortages throughout the guy, and her right hand flamethrowers and crima claw nozzles had been crushed. The cockpit wouldn't close correctly because the locks were jammed, and the jets weren't capable of burning hot enough to lift a feather, much less the guymelef. And the cape was torn to ribbons. Oh well. Nothing I can't handle. Using my powerful magic, I fixed her. I never depended on anyone to even touch her. Along with playing infantry in Zibach's army, Hell's Fire carried out more than one assasination mission every now and again. We also did reconnissance, spying, escort, rescue, you name it, we did it. Occasionaly, we would go out by ourselves and do a mission. It was a good life for me. I almost never sat still. I had purpose. I was happy. As of now, I was general to the Sixth Legion, marching south in hopes of smashing our enemies. Namely Ghan, Fried, and most of all, Fanelia. Fanelia had rebuilt itself over the years. She was better than ever and growing fast. Her sister country, Kolar, had joined forces with her and now a thousand square miles of beautiful land in the south was known as Fanelia. The treaty the two countries had signed last year allowed that both rulers would keep titles of king; Fanel as King of West Fanelia, Kolanash as King of East Fanelia. It was all fine and dandy and they were currently preparing for war. Fanel was hard pressed to run his country without a queen. Kolanash, who was much older, had offered every one of his beautiful six daughters more than once, only to be refused. The king didn't mind. He knew the 20 year old's past. Austoria had joined us in return for the commander of the Crusade. Schezar was to be crowned king in two weeks. We had killed the old king last year. I personally thought that the Knight couldn't run an outhouse, much less a country. It had taken us many embassadors, threats, and offers to lure them into our grasp. Really, we didn't need them, but it was one less pathetic country to fight. Folken and Dornkirck had mysteriously disappeared, leaving Zibach Emperor-less and lead by General Adelfus. Which wasn't all that bad since he knows the best battle tactics I've ever seen. Dilandau had taken over the vione and it was run much smoother now, with no sorcerors. Space was used well, with nearly every room occupied by soldiers. He had cristened the vione Death'. I now shared a room with Blade and Ryan. Jason and Mark were next door. Our latest victory had been a monumental battle against Lashir. They were mostly a peaceful country, well known for the trade business run by the King himself. About 50% of Gaea's population of human/animal people lived here. Most famous were the Sephirs. They were like Draconians, only they had dragon-like wings, eyes, and teeth. They were fierce warriors and renowned for the swords they manufactured. Zibach had struck a deal with them. We would leave them be if they provided us with swords. Not every soldier got the best, but Hell's Fire and the DS had all gotten new swords. Mark's and Ryan's had been hand crafted upon my request. Mark's looked very cool. It was your regular katana blade, carved with a fierce dragon spitting electricity and surrouned by lightning bolts. The handle had a large stone that looked like topaz and the hilt was solid gold. How they made it so light, I'll never know. Ryan's looked much like Mark's, only ivy was crawling around the graceful dragon. The hilt was stylized after an oak leaf; the middle point extended to create the grip. A large emerald sat where Mark's topaz would have been. Dilandau had had a blade created for him too. He somehow got someone to draw a picture of Iansha and had a sword made to look like mine. For some reason, right after the last diamond had been laid, the whole thing burst into flames. And no, I was NOT in the room. They created another that didn't have the tiny diamonds along the blade. That one didn't burst into flames, it only broke in half the first time Dilandau picked it up. Finally, the smithy created a simpler sword. Dilandau got to use that one. He had been promoted to commander of the whole army, and was probably working on his attack plans right now. They were brilliant. He knew exactly how the enemy would react, how they would attack, what tactics they would use. I would say he was a genius, but that would only apply to his battle savvy. After all these thoughts had run through my head, I finally fell asleep.

I was woken up too early the next morning by fierce thunder and lightning. Ah well. I was used to little or no sleep as a spy. *Gold, Red here. This you?* *Na. It's natural* *Just checkin. Out* *Out* Occaissionally, one of my team would mess with their element while in the grips of some strong emotion. Today was a breakday, reward for yesterday's victory, and since I liked rain, I went for a walk in the predawn darkness. I found my way to a small clearing about a mile from my camp, suddenly remembering the meeting I was to have with a Sephirian spy who had rebelled against his tribe. I found the dragon-man to be an excellent operative in high security situations and extremely secretive. The mission I had sent him on had him returning from the Fanelian palace. Just as I was wondering where he was, I felt a strong presence behind me that screamed danger.
Kaige. Nice of you to come' I said without moving.
Thank you, deomana' he said, stepping out of the shadows as I turned.
Any trouble?'
A fiesty female questioned me when I passed through your camp. None else'
That would be Jade. What did you learn?'
Fanelia is growing ever larger. Fanel is growing ever weaker. I've seen the sorrow in his eyes'
You got close. What of their military?'
Led by a man of iron looks and resolve. His weakness will be pride. The ranks are in quick intensive training. They march to Fried in three week's time'
We will have decimated Ghan by then. And Escaflowne? I heard it lays dormant'
It does, ever since his whore left. And dormant it stays, though the king visits daily'
You got very close. What of Kolanash?'
As drunk as ever. His army is orphans and beggar's sons. Most can't hold a sword, much less kill a man. His daughters do naught but walk the gardens and giggle at the foolish advances of suitors. There is one to be wary of, his second youngest, your age. She constantly wears trousers, disappears for days, and wields a sword well. Her name is Crystal'
Excellent. You said you had no trouble?'
None, deomana'
Wonderful. Thank you, Kaige. What do you require?'
Fifty gold pieces and a talk with that fiesty young girl' he answered, a gleam in his eye.
Fair' I said, handing him the money. I cannot promise a meeting though, that is entirely up to Jade. If she declines?'
Ten more gold pieces'
You drive a hard bargain, Sephir'
That may be true, but my work is demanding'
Yes. I can sympathize'
Thank y-'
Ten silver'
But you said-' he noted, confused.
I said I can, not will. Take it or leave it'
Very well. The silver itself will fund my next trip' he said, smiling.
I don't have a job for you right now, unless you want to scout ahead for trouble. Other than that, you can have the next week off. You're dismissed'
Thank you , deomana minfirthe' Kaige melted back into the shadows.
Don't scare any of those fools that call themsleves soldiers!' The haunting laughter that reached my ears faded in the direction of the camp, assuring me he would do just that. After watching the storm for another few minutes, I walked back without a sound. Just as I slipped into the circle of tents, a resounding slap came rom the vicinity of Ryan's tent. I smiled to myself and strode over to ease her mind. The scene that met my eyes was strange to say the least. Ryan had a dagger to the throat of Kaige, who's arms had trapped her. At the sound of my entrance, they turned their heads, but neither moved otherwise.
Kaige, you need to improve your manners. Jade, this is Kaige. He's a spy under my jurisdiction' She removed her knife and let the man go. *Don't worry. He likes you. He just wants to talk* *Oh* Ryan relaxed visibly.
Ok Kaige. You wanted to talk?' she asked. He looked puzzled at her sudden change of attitude.
I'll leave you two' I smiled. I walked out and glanced around, noting the light in Mark's tent. *Hey, Mark, are you decent?* *Yeah. Maybe not awake, but decent* *Ok* I walked over and let myself in to find the small tent lit by a single candle. Mark was sitting on his cot, his armor donned, but pushed down around his waist. In one hand he held a half empty glass of red wine, in the other, a novel he had brought from Earth.
It's funny, once you think about it. Dragons are the noblest of creatures and are to be treated with the utmost respect, as they are the messengers of the gods.' Socrates. 415 BC' He took a sip of the wine, admiring the taste. Here, dragons are used as a source of energy and trinkets, slaughtered because they ate too many sheep' He chuckled at this. Come on, sit down' he said, scooting over on the cot.
I'm soaking wet' I protested.
Are you forgeting that you control the power of fire? Are you a sorcoress or not?' I laughed at my own stupidity and dried myself instantly, sitting in the comfort of Mark, leaning my back against his chest.
I'm so tired. Usually I can go with lack of sleep, but I don't feel like trying today. It's as if I'm in a daze' I told him. He wrapped his arms around me after setting the wine down.
I feel the same. What do you think it is?'
Life is getting too easy?' I suggested, smiling. Silence ensued. I stared at the flame of the candle, pondering the gift bestowed on me by the gods. All too suddenly, I felt a familiar presence approaching my tent and growled low in my throat. With a single thought, I snuffed the flame illuminating the tent. *What is it? Or should I say who?* *Dilandau. A very angry Dilandau* *What to do?* *I'll go invisible, you sleep* *Alright* I cast myself invisible and stood while Mark hid himself under his covers. Upon not finding me in my tent, Dilandau stormed on to Mark's. He ripped open the door' and glared into the darkness.
Hey! Get up! Where is Jessica??' he demanded. Mark sat up and let himself look normal.
Not here obviously. Do you need to speak with her?'
Yes, and don't ask me why because I wouldn't tell you. Do you know where I can find her?'
No, I don't. I can't feel people's minds like she does' he answered. Dilandau growled and stormed on. I dropped my spell. *What was that all about?* *I don't know, and I don't care, I just hope I don't have to deal with him* I answered. I sat back down and Mark put his arms around me again. *I'm so happy* *Why is that?* I asked. *I get to spend the day alone with you* he answered, a smile hinting at the corner of his thoughts. *I am too* With his right hand, he gently turned my head so he could kiss me, pulling me closer. We slept like that, in each other's arms, completely at peace while the storm outside vented our angers at the world.
--------------------------------
I woke up again about ten minutes after falling asleep to feel Mark still lying next to me, breathing rythmically in sleep. The coarse, army issued blanket had been pulled up to our shoulders. Just as I began wondering why I was here, memories rushed into my head. The storm was calming and the rain had slowed to a constant pour with little or no wind. My guess at the time was midmorning. *I feel like warm honey* I heard Mark say. His bright gold eyes had opened just the slightest bit. *Warm honey?* *Yes. Warm honey. How do you feel?* *Like this moment couldn't get any better* Then I spotted the wine that sat forgotten on the table. *I lied* I picked up the glass, still half empty and swirled the contents around, admiring the legs. I took a small sip and swished it around in my mouth, savoring the rich taste. *If I'm not mistaken, fifteen years old, Ascara vintage, a nice press* I took another sip. *Northern slope. One of Bosco's better groves* Mark inspected the label on the bottle and chuckled lightly. *Right to the T. Hmm. I feel like warm wine, not honey. This is heaven* He kissed me lightly, getting a taste of the fine wine. I put the glass back on the table and rested my head against his chest. He languidly reached up with his left hand and stroked my hair, now in quite a mess. We sat like that for what seemed like an eternity.
Without warning, the tent was flooded with light and an imposing shadow took hold of the doorway. I was not at all surprised to see Dilandau there. Of course, he took it entirely the wrong way.
Hello Dilandau. Anything I can do for you that doesn't require getting up?' I asked, utterly calm. Dilandau blushed bright crimson to match his eyes before answering.
Just thought I'd let you know that there is a Sephirian running amok in my camp. No one can contain him' he said.
Oh. That's Kaige. A spy against our enemies under my comand. I'll take care of him when I get up' I put my head back on Mark's chest, feeling it shake at the contained laughter. Dilandau walked out, still red as a ripe apple.
That was hilarious!' Mark laughed.
I just hope he doesn't tell the entire Empire'
I'm sure he won't, knowing the extent of your powers' he said, still stroking my hair.
I suppose I should go contain Kaige' I said, getting up slowly and reluctantly. I sat on the edge of the bed, looking for my gloves and weapons.
Do you really have to go?' he asked, leaning on an elbow.
Yes' I answered, smiling. If I don't, Kaige'll scare the troops we need senseless. Besides, I need to humor Dilandau every now and again' I said as I stood, pulling on my gloves and weapons.
I'll come back, I promise' I said sarcastically at the look on his face.
I'll be waiting' he answered, playing the greiving lover perfectly. I laughed at his acting as I exited the tent. I saw Ryan stretching just outside of hers. *What did you two do?* She asked, startling me. *Wha...?* *Your aura is pure happiness and content. You haven't done that since Dilandau spewed all over Chesta when you doctored his vino. Whadya do?* *I slept in his arms* *Oh* Her thoughts smiled. *You approve?* *I've been wondering when you'd move* *I see. How did your chat with Kaige go?* *Well, apparently he's so happy he went off to scare every halfwit he could find* *Whadya do?* *I agreed to let him spend the week in our camp* *Alright. Wanna go contain him?* *Why not?* We found the dragon-like man in the shadows behind Dilandau's tent, eyes gleaming with joy.
Oh Kaige' I called. He straightened instantly.
Deomana I----wait. You smell different. Red wine, old leather, vanilla, and rasberries. Who did you bed, Lady Fire?' he asked casually. This last comment earned him a powerful backhand across the face that would have made Dilandau wince. The Sephirian's head snapped back and a few drops of blood flew from his mouth.
You will keep your observations to yourself unless told otherwise by one of Hell's Fire, understood, Iron -Claush?' I growled, reminding him of the tribe he had abandoned. He winced at my words and nodded in submission.
Yes, perfectly clear, my lady'
Good. You will share a tent with Storm for your stay if it so suits you. Now march' I hissed. He walked ahead of us back to our camp, head down and tail dragging. On the way back, I ran into Dilandau. Literally. Signaling Ryan and Kaige to go on ahead, I gave him a questioning look.
You wished to speak to me very early this morning. I have the time now' I told him.
I wanted to inform you that I have recieved word from our operatives in Ghan that a large army has amassed there, nearly twice ours in size. Fanelia sent auxilary troops with Fried's and Moslandi special forces. Altogether, 8759 troops. The higher ranked are armed with Moslandi rifles and the infantry will be protected by energy shields. Large scale offense includes four Eranlin catapults. All capable of hurling dragons 500 yards. I was wondering if you had any bright ideas' he said calmly.
First off, you are a complete fool for telling me this in the open. My tent'
But mine-'
Yes I know you have all the battle plans in your tent' With a snap of my fingers, the many charts, graphs, and maps appeared before me. And I know it's closer, but mine is warded by spells to deter any kind of eavesdropping' I said, leading the way. Once inside, I spread out all the charts and maps.
Now. We, are here. Ghan is here. We can reach it in three days forced march. They can reach us in six days forced march. Twice the size, twice the time. They will position the catapults in the middle of infantry. They'll take life over distance. The shields can cover the entire army, but will keep the riflers from shooting. We can attack them if we use just ground forces. Now, those shields can last for days, that will gave us time to surround them completely, three ranks deep'
But that will take almost three times what we have!' Dilandau protested.
Yes it will. As of now, we are being sent soldiers from Austoria, and in half a day, they will arrive, 3000 strong'
But that's still not enough'
You forget. With a force of 8000, most are inexperienced. Simply seeing our forces surrounding them will make them lose hope. And even the commanders won't expect you to have five dragons on your side' I smirked at his speechlessness. Furthermore, Hell's Fire will go on a quick trip to disable the catapults and half the shields. The rifles, since they are no doubt still in the storage boxes, can be burned. The ensuing fire and gunshot will kill some and scare away more. By tommorow morning, their forces will be reduced by one thousand, you have my word' I told him, all confidence. You have to remember that I forbid my group to use magic in battle unless it's a life or death thing, and I'm pushing the limits by attacking in dragon form. Only if we are near defeat will I allow myself or my friends to use their powers. Now, I know of an extremely large, flat plain where we can engage them about ten miles from here, right between us and Ghan. Lanshir has been gutted and I've managed to turn up six Moslandi catapults. I've had the Sixth cut down some rather large trees in the area for ammunition. They aren't up to Eranlin standards, but we won't have to worry about those. We will give the army their rest day and move out tommorow as soon as the Ausies get here' He nodded agreement and looked thoughtful for a moment.
I know the ground you speak of. It has a nice, ten foot high hill about half a mile from the perimeter. The whole field is about three square miles, right? The archers will fire from there. We spared our pike men last battle which just might save us now. We won't surround them. Three ranks of pikes, then the sixth, seventh, and eighth legions. Behind them, fifth and fourth, then third. One, two, and nine will be held in reserve. Calvary will be ready to attack if need be. This is what the field will look like' he said, drawing it on a spare piece of paper.

[Ninth(R)]

[Second (R)] [Third] [First (R)]
[Fourth][Fifth]
\Cavalry/ [Seventh][Sixth][Eighth] \Cavalry/
\Cavalry/
{Archers} {Archers} {Archers}
{} {} {} ¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡ {} {} {} ¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡
¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡¡

|
100 yards
|


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

~ Ghan ~
~ ~
~ ~
{}-catapults
We'll simply let them carge first. Their horses will be destroyed by the pikes, since it's totally unexpected. They have to have their honor by letting the knights draw first blood. This strategy allows that they will draw blood first. Their own. When you go on your quick trip' make sure you note how they've set up their camp, or steal the plans if you can. Once their knights are dead or fleeing, we'll let loose our cavalry. The knights won't have their horses, so they'll be meat to slaughter. While the cavalry rides on, the Sixth, Seventh, and Eighth will march, followed by the Fourth, Fifth, and Third. The archers will then move to the front of the army, firing from behind the marching Legions and opening a path for them. The first three legions will attack first, after we've begun launching arrows and started up the catapults. The attack should succeed since foot soldiers in Ghan aren't used to fighting knights or other foot soldiers. If need be, we'll send in the First and Second, but the Ninth is for absolute urgency'
And the fact that the Dragon Slayers are in the Sixth makes, no never mind to you?'
No, of course not. I trust your judgement. I'm counting on you and your team to do your job tonight. If not, we won't survive the battle'
You forget, I'll be a sixty foot long dragon which no one will understand. I won't be able to direct the Sixth'
Then I'll do it myself. The soldiers will feel better with me at their sides'
I just hope they don't stone you to death'
Why would they?'
Everyone of them is fiercly loyal. They obey me perfectly. If they fail, I punish them. But never once have I lost a soldier. If I have to, I use my powers to heal them. They are the meanest, toughest rouges on Gaea and damn proud of it. Overall, they're tough to handle. Hope you can deal with it'
I'll notify you if I have any problems'
So I can save your ass yet again?' I asked, ignoring his flare of anger. Just don't let any of em die. If you do, you just might join em. Anything else I should know?'
Not for now. Brief your team on the mission and be back by three next morning, got it?'
Sir yes sir!!' I said, mocking him. He glared at me. Dilandau, how long will it take you to learn that I will not be ordered around like a witliss puppy?'
Kindly send these charts back to my tent' he said, still glaring. I snapped my fingers and they disappeared. Why are you so stubborn?' he asked.
I like being in control. Much like fire, so uncontrolable, just like me.' I said.
What motivates you?' he asked, perplexed.
A phrase someone very close to me once said. De esnal liu de recti. Retchte, liu mila esilina'
And what does that mean?'
To live is to die, death is new life'
That is incredibly stupid' he smirked.
Get out' I hissed. He growled in anger and huffed out. I listened closely for the next couple of minutes. I was rewarded with a down right frustrated scream from Dilandau's tent. I laughed to myself and imagined Dilandau jumping around, trying to catch the floating maps that always seemed to slip out of his grip. *Demons, report!* I said loudly in my mind. It was the call we used in Hell's Fire to get everyone's attention. Technically, we weren't supposed to have a leader, but everyone else just thought I deserved the job. I counted to three before electricity exploded next to me and Mark appeared. At five, the earth itself burst up and created Ryan. At nine, a glass of water broke violently as the water inside expanded, popping and fizzing, and molded itself into Blade. And at eleven, a gust of wind penetrated the tent, making the door flap fly open. The swirling dust and leaves fell away to reveal Jason. The demons had answered. Hell's Fire had arrived.
Well met. We have a job tonight. I've just been told that Ghan's forces are eight thousand strong, including cavalry. They are armed with Eranlin catapults, energy shields, and Moslandi rifles. We are going to disable the extremities and figure out their attack plans. We will march tomorrow after the Ausies show up. In the battle about two days from now at least, we will fight as dragons, alright?' They nodded. Questions?'
What's our time window?' Blade asked.
Now to three next morning'
Transportation?' Ryan queiried.
Animal forms'
Risk factor?' Jason asked. Risk factor was the likelyhood of being found out or killed on a scale from one to ten, ten being the highest.
Nine'
Is our magic available?' Mark wondered.
That will be decided upon arrival. Suit up. Stash daggers, hide swords, ready with wings. We can't be all too careful. Jason, I want you ready to create copies of those battle plans, alright?'
Sure' he answered.
Ok. Be ready in fifteen minutes. Flight time is half an hour, ground time is forty five minutes. We slip in, we slip out, no one knows. The flame of life and death'' we said together. The demons left the same way they came in and I went about getting myself ready for the mission.
----------------------------
Ninety two hours had passed. I was now standing on the battlefield, surveying our progress. So far, Dilandau's battle plans had gone on without a hitch. Ghan's knights had been decimated and were now being chased down by our cavalry. The Legions had begun marching, and the foot soldiers of the enemy had been ordered to charge since they had no shield, rifles, or catapults to clear the way. The archers let loose and a hundred fell. They knocked arrows again and eighty more fell. At this point, it was time to shine. *Ok. It's time you guys. Let's go* I said as I rode my horse, Ryuu, back to meet the demons. I met my friends just in front of the Ninth Legion and we handed our horses over to the grooms told to meet us there as soon as the other Legions had begun marching. I nodded to everyone and we were each engulfed in a pulsating light; mine was blood red, Mark's bright gold, Ryan's deep emerald green, Blade's sapphire blue, and Jason's was pure white. In a matter of seconds, after the lights had exploded, there stood five huge dragons, all of which were staring at the army of Ghan. What met their eyes was pretty amusing. The enemy, divided into four battalions, was drastically reduced as most of the front forces dispersed and ran like hell. Only to be met by the First and Second marching in from behind. By know, the foremost attackers had run the seventy yards and came face to face with a solid wall of well trained soldiers bristling with swords, spears, scimitars, and various other weapons, though luckily for the Ghanians, no pikes. As they clashed, the demons and I had jumped into the air and were firing several energy balls at the remaining enemy. I shot gigantic fire balls which burned hot enough to melt the armor onto the officers, creating some very strange looking humans. Mark spat great bolts of electricity that not only electricuted the men it hit, but some just exploded. Ryan's attacks, just as they left her mouth, looked like nothing more than balls of green light. As soon as they hit something, though, arm-thick vines burst into being and quickly engulfed anything in a twenty foot radius. Blade threw huge streams of ice cold water that once it came in contact with something, froze it instantly to the point where if you simply punched it, the entire object broke into millions of tiny splinters. Jason's attacks were extremely large cycle shaped highly explosive jets of visible air. To say the least, the enemy was reduced to about three thousand in a matter of minutes. *That's enough* I told them. We all turned back to land where we once were. We turned back into our human forms and, unlike the first time I had turned into a dragon, we felt no fatigue. I was not entirely happy that this alternative had to have been used, though. I liked a good clean fight, not one where the odds were horribly in favor of yourself. After retrieving our horses, we rode back to stand by Dilandau. He had given command of the Sixth over to Guimel. The Dragon Slayer knew enough of warfare to get them through the battle. I watched, half interested, as Ghan's forces were rallied by their commander, suprisingly still alive after a broadside of ice then fire, and regrouped behind thier meager energy shield. The foremost Legions came to a halt, waiting for orders, or simply what the enemy forces would do.
Well. What say we join the Sixth?' I said, not taking my eyes off the blood covered field. All five off my companions nodded and we spurred our mounts into a gallop. Ryuu, being the magnificent horse that he is, got me there first. I was followed directly by Mark on Tsornin, Dilandau on Aka, Jason on Speed Demon, Blade on Sprite, and Ryan on Ivy. In all, it took us thirty seconds to ride the three hundred yards to the Sixth Legion. A cry of joy went up from each of the Legions as we passed. As soon as I sat at the head of the Sixth, they started cheering. The raucous cheer turned into a chant of minfirthe'. Fire, in the old language. I nodded to Guimel and he took his place next to Dalet and Trish, Trish looking fresh out of a shower, Dalet like he had just taking a bath in red paint. I knew that the blood was not his by the grin on his face. To get the attention of all the soldiers, Dilandau rode in front of them, holding up a fist for silence. He rode back to the middle, in front of the Sixth, and waited for the troops to quiet down.
Zibach! You have marched to victory many times in the past two months, and now, you march again!' Roar. Dilandau called for silence again. Ghan has all but fallen to their knees and begged for mercy, which they will do before the day is done. But now, they rally against us, three thousand strong. We number at nearly twice that!' Roar. Within the next ten minutes, you will taste the blood of those foolish enough to stand before the greatest army on Gaea!' Pandemonium. With that, he turned back to our enemy. They had formed one huge block, and were marching forward slowly. Most of the soldiers had some wound or another. Just before Dilandau gave the order to march, I felt a familiar and powerful presence. With a single thought, I froze Dilandau's arm as he raised it and forced it back down. He glared at me, waiting for an answer.
They've set a trap! I can feel it. It has to do with magic, though. I don't know what, but the person is familiar somehow' I told him. He thought for a moment, and finding that he had control of his arm, gave the command. Drummers behind each Legion beat out the sequence and the greatest army Gaea had every seen marched forward to meet its doom.
NO!!' I screamed, outraged. *It's a trap! Why won't he believe me! Ride hard! Follow me, we go stealth!* I ordered. Instantly, the demons disappeared. The soldiers of the Zibach army knew our powers and did not fear them. They marched on. I rode hard and fast to the right, Ryuu getting me there possibly faster than I could. I led my team behind the enemy and hauled my horse up short at what met my eyes. The First and Second Legion, which had kept the Ghanians from retreating, were nothing more than a pile of blood covered bodies. They had been slaughtered. Something was wrong, though. Then I spotted it. Every one of them had died by a single blow. A shot right through the heart, so accurate that on some, grass was visible underneath the corpse. Containing my rage, I spurred Ryuu on, coming up to a circle of men. They all wore pure white robes, Gandalf from Lord of the Rings style. They surrounded one being in the middle who wore all black robes. The face seemed so familiar, the brows furrowed in concentration. Then it hit me like a Mack truck. It was my father. My mind froze. It refused to work. My father, here. My father, fueling the only defense that would be able to stop Zibach. My father, alive.

My father, my enemy.

I exploded. My mind burst with so much fury that I cancelled every magic spell in a ten mile radius. Before my father could react to the sight of his long lost daughter, I enclosed him and his minions in a huge, visible, ball of burning fire. I didn't care that my friends had fallen from their horses, screaming at the pain in their skull. I didn't care that the Zibach army was walking straight into a endless pit that engulfed every soldier. I didn't care that a figure, unrecognizable, grew wings and flew off suffering several major wounds. I only cared that I had found my father. And that he had betrayed me. I didn't say anything. I simply glared. Many of my father's henchmen cowered in fear at that deadly gaze. My father spoke.
Jessica! Oh my god, is it really you??'
No. I'm Rei, remember? Oh wait, maybe it's been TOO GOD DAMNED LONG FOR YOU TO REMEMBER ME!' I screamed.
Rei, wait, I can explain-'
You don't have to explain. You joined Zibach's enemies. You're Zibach's enemy, you're my enemy'
That's no-'
And don't give me any crap that you didn't know I was there! You know as well as I do that you could feel my magic anytime I used it halfway across Gaea!'
You don't underst-'
I don't understand what, dad?' I said, mockingly. That you abandoned me, and mom, and your unborn child? Oh, don't worry about remembering them, you won't have to. Because they're DEAD!' I yelled. Twelve years. I've been fatherless for twelve god damned years. And NOW, you want to hug me and tell me everything's all right? And NOW you wanna be there for my wedding? No. It will not happen. You missed out, pops. Your chance flew out the window TEN YEARS AGO!!!' I screamed.
NO!! Listen to me! They took me away! They thought I knew something about Atlantis. They took me away, against my will, and tortured me. You know how long I was in that cell? That tiny cell? Pitch black. Chained to a wall. Fed a piece of bread and stagnant water, for five, freakin, years. Could you do that? Every day, a man came in, masked and silent, and whipped me. Stuck so many different things in me, I don't know how I survived. But I was saved. Saved by the people of Ghan. I was brought into the light, Rei. I was introduced to a new way of life. For the past seven years, I've been training with the Moslandi wise men. I have risen to the postion of high priest. Aren't you happy for me?' As he told me this, I nearly shook with fear. The Moslandi wise men were some of the most feared on Gaea. Their control over people and the elements was unsurpassed. They were a dark people. They were controlling, manipulating, and secretive. They were so feared, little was said of them at all. I was scared of them. Thankfully, though, they couldn't work by themselves. They had to work in ordinances; groups of nine, their sacred number. There were nine in this group. As this information poured into my brain, I nearly lost control of my magic. But I hardened my resolve and faced the man that had once been my father.
You are not my father. My father was a kind, loving person. My father would have protected me. He would have stopped you' I growled.
But I will protect you, Rei. All you have to do is join me' He smiled. And yet, the intentions behind that smile were as clear as a mountain spring.
I will not join you' I said, low and dangerous.
Oh, but the power. We could rule Gaea, Rei. You and me. Father and daughter' he beckoned to me with his hands. My magic flared in response to my anger.
NO!! I will not join you!!!!' I repeated.
Think of the possiblities! We could destroy Fanelia! We can destroy Kolar! We can rule this world! Then, when we have conquered Gaea, we'll take control of Earth!' he said, mailce shining in his eyes, his cold, hard, ice-like eyes.
What about my friends, huh? What about the people I love??? You won't protect' them will you? No. You won't. You'll just use them like you'll use me!'
But I won't use you! You'll be my right hand, we'll rule together!'
I WILL NOT JOIN YOU!!!!!!!' I screeched so loud that some of the Moslandi priests gripped their ears in pain.
Fine' His face lost all trace of fake warmth. If you will not join me, I will destroy your life bit by bit, until you do!!!' With this, he pointed at Blade. Just as she started to scream in pain, I blocked his magic and cast my friends invisible. He just laughed. The cold, echoing sound reached the ears of the soldiers nearest us and they shook in fear, some ran.
You forget, Rei. I am not bound by Moslandi standards!!!' he shot a jet of pure, black magic straight at Jason. I blocked it, but just barely.
I know where I've seen you before! You played Blaine!! You betrayed Fanelia!!'
Recognize this??' he growled. Abruptly, his voice changed to Folken's. 'The experiment is under way. The poison has been delivered, Lord Dornkirck'' Then his voice changed to that of the old Emporer's. 'Good work. See that it is complete this time. Do not fail me again'' Once again, his evil laughter drifted on the twilight air.
You! You poisoned me!' I accused.
It was neccesary for me to cultivate that young boy of yours, Randy, I believe was his name?'
What do you want with him?'
Oh, not much really. Just his soul' The dark laughter again.
You bastard' I growled. His eyes flashed fury and I barely had time to block the arrow of magic that went straight for Ryan.
You will learn to respect me!' he hissed.
And if I don't?' I asked, innocently.
Then I will crush you like the insect you are!!' I growled in response and the ball he was enclosed in burst into blood red flames, flat stopping the magic he sent at Mark.
Insect? To you? Hah. You, are worthless. You are nothing more than a speck of dirt compared to me! Who do you have that loves you? Who do you have to help you when you fall? No one!!' I smirked as he screamed rage. He sent a huge bolt of powerful magic straight at me, too far gone in rage to care of the consequences. Drawing on my friend's power, I created a shield that curved outward and shot the missile back at the pretender. He was immune to his own power, but the other priests in my magic ball disentigrated instantly.
You are a fool to challenge me!!' he hissed. I am the Moslandi High Priest, I command the elements! Bend to my will! I call upon your power! Serve me now!!' he yelled. The earth started to shake as the elements answered his order. Five raindrop shaped lights hovered in front of him. Just as he reached out to take hold of them, they shot out of his grasp and flew twenty feet up into the air.
What??' he gasped in anger. Power of the elements, I am your master!!! Do as I say!!!'
Right before our eyes, the lights pulsed brighter and converged, creating a blinding white light. The light molded and took the shape of a small white dragon, about the length of my forearm.
Your time has come, Vesti' The voice sounded like the five of us, the demons, all saying the same thing at once.
No!' he yelled.
You have pushed your barriers. You cannot control my power anymore. I have chosen those worthy of my power. They stand before you now' With that, the demons appeared. They all had looks of intense pain on their faces. We formed a line, pushed by some unseen hand, with me in the middle.
These five are to command the powers of the elements. Jason, quiet and submissive, controls the swiftness of air' as the being said this, Jason's face cleared and an almost joyful grin spread across it. Blade, pure of heart and sound of mind, commands the fluidity of water' Blade's face cleared as well. Ryan, quick to speak and quick of thought, uses the solid earth' Ryan stood up straight from the position she had once been in, vomiting. Mark, kind, perceptive, intellegent, rules the instantaneous power of lightning' Mark stood from being on the ground, writhing in agony. And Rei. Smart, quick, strong willed, perceptive, clever. Rei controls the unpredictablity of raging fire' I hadn't been in pain, but a feeling of joy washed over me. She leads her friends towards Zibach's cause. You, Vesti, attempt to control all five aspects of my power. You, spiteful, condescending, can do no more than stir a breath of wind' The elements pulsed brighter, anger flashing in multi colored eyes.
How dare you insult me!! These drakelings could never match my power!'
SILENCE MORTAL!!' the small dragon said, commanding though size almost lessened any threat. I finally realized that time itself had stopped. Check your reserves, mortal. The Black Dragon has done nothing past block your heavy handed attacks. Don't ever underestimate the demons empowered by my abilities. Your time has come, Vesti. You will plague this world no longer!!' The once holdable dragon grew in size until it surpassed the length of my dragon form. Your purpose is gone, Vesti. A new order will take hold, one that does not manipulate the minds of others. The New Order will be ruled by the Chosen Ones, hand picked by my only masters, the gods themselves. Dethira la minfirthe, zar scain nar sen leeisa, demsi lou mesnia' I understood perfectly. It was said in the old langauge; Commander of fire, I give you my blessing, go in peace. Melda, mis esnala liu rect' Human, you life is gone. This was directed at Vesti. Apparently, he knew the old language. Before he could be struck down, and before I could react, he shot the remainder of his magic at Mark.
I will return for your head!!!' he yelled just before he disappeared. I snapped out of a daze and found Mark on the ground, breathing shallow, face twisted in agony. Time resumed just quick enough for Ghan to be scared witless by my shattering scream. While I dropped to my knees to inspect the damage, yil, the dragon, shrunk back to its original size and landed on my shoulder.
Mark....' I choked out, figthing a lump in my throat.
It....-hurts' he gasped in pain. I was vaguely aware of my friends creating a circle around Mark.
Shhhh.... be still, I'll see what I can do' I said, gathering my magic to perform the healing spell.
You can do nothing' yil said in a sorrow filled voice. The darkness will spread until it takes complete control, changing him into something like Vesti. We have to end it'
No' I whispered.
Rei--' Mark hissed. Be strong. I love you' He brought a hand up to stroke my cheek.
And I you' I took the chance and shared with him a sweet kiss, our last.
Rei, spitfire, take-AAAAAAAAGGGGGGGGGGH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!' he screamed at the pain. Take my magic' he said in a shuttering breath.
No....don't go.....Don't leave me!!!!' I cried.
Rei!! Be......be strong' With this, he closed his eyes and a ball of pure gold materialized right over his head. I took his last gift to me and held it against my heart, and it became a part of my soul. Mark's eyes opened and I could see the pain, anguish, love, and growing hatred there.
Do it now, before it spreads' he said. Slowly, unwillingly, I drew my mother's dagger, pulsing white, blue, and red. I placed the tip right above his heart.
I love you. I will always be there' he said, and the hatred disappeared for a moment.
I'm so sorry' I said. Gathering all of my courage, I plunged the knife deep into his chest. Immense pain flashed across his face, replaced quickly by a joy unknown to many in this world. His once bright gold eyes faded. I was empty. A searing pain made itself known on my Hell's Fire tattoo. The flames had turned jet black. I felt a slight squeeze on my shoulder and turned to face yil.
He is well deserving of the farewell of the gods. Blade, if you would cleanse him?' Blade stepped up, tears streaming down her face and called water to clean the body.
Rei, if you please?' I called upon hot, high, red flames laced with electricity to creamate it. I watched the ashes settle. Ryan, a spell?' Ryan cast her spell and for an instant, the ashes turned emerald green. Jason?' Jason called a small whirlwind that picked up every ash and sent them to all the corners of the world. Where every one falls, a bush of perfect yellow roses will grow that can never be cut down. Take my blessing, children of my power. Use it wisely to the cause of good. De esnal liu de recti. Retchte, liu mila esilina' To live is to die. Death, is a new beginning'. yil turned back into the eight droplets of light. Ryan was given brown, Blade blue, and Jason white. I was presented with red. A part of the yellow was given to me. Black, green, silver, and some of the yellow was left. The rest hovered for a moment then burst into a million tiny fragments. I watched as they disappeared.
Without warning, a beam of pure white light shot down from the Mystic Moon and engulfed me in its brilliance.
Take care you guys' I said. I'll come back' As I was lifted away, a single tear left my eye. Where it landed stands a large rose bush with beautiful, perfect, blood red roses.


La Siel


Forever is hope; that which none can destroy, as it burns as bright
as the sun in the hearts of all people. no matter how dim the world.

Mark Murphy
1985-2002
Though his body is gone, his soul lives on forever
in the hearts of those which he loved.
May the gods of Gaea welcome his
spirit into their world; the realm of heaven.





De esnal liu de recti. Retchte, liu mila esilina
To live is to die. Death, is new life.




Please let me know what you think. That's the whole story and I'm working on a sequel. (a/n) Mark Murphy is a fictional character. The memorial adds to the reality.
-Lil Pyro