Tears of Twilight
Chapter 32.
By the time Ryo had told Sage all that had happened, Sage was very miffed indeed. His visible eye narrowed into a dangerous slit and he tightened his fists at his sides. This was how you could tell he was angry, by that dangerous look in his eyes. Often enough it would just go to prove that even the calmest of warriors could quickly be ensnared by anger. The Ronin of Halo was about to explode, demanding to know why he had fallen into such a trap, and that if he had been more wiser he could have prevented this. He felt ashamed that he had been caught so easily, and through the link of their armors, Ryo could feel his emotions. But he said nothing as of yet. Sage needed to come to terms on his own, to realize that everything happens for a reason and that some cannot be prevented. So until Sage would calm himself, Ryo stayed quiet, leaning against a tree with his arms crossed over his chest. As he allowed himself to politely listen to Sage's rage, his kanji appeared on his forehead and he could feel himself strengthening. Sage must have noticed as well, because he had stopped ranting and stared at Ryo with wide eyes.
"Ryo.. yo..you're glowing!" he stammered.
Ryo looked down in awe. "Well, that's strange. That only happens if there's fire nearby!" He stepped forward and took a whiff of air. The acrid smell of smoke filled his nostrils and as he looked closer he could see columns of smoke rising above the hills in the far off east. "Sage! Fire! Just beyond those hills!"
"Fire?" Sage said incredulous. But he had no time to ask questions. For Ryo was taking off toward the blaze, and he had no choice but to follow him.
The two Ronins ran across hard terrain, had to armor up once again, and dodge and fight their way through Dynasty soldiers that had suddenly appeared, leap across chasms, and run down hills. The smoke was getting heavier now, and Ryo's kanji was flashing like crazy. He could feel himself strengthening more and more the closer they got. Then finally, they could see the fire; several trees and temples were burning vigorously. Sage looked around for the source of the fire, and then his heart leapt for joy. For in a circle, just a few feet before them, were their friends. He glanced at Ryo and ran faster. Ryo increased his speed as well. He had seen Kento, Rowen, Scorpio, and Flash.. and Flash was hurt. Feeling his heart constrict he increased his speed and soon was in full sight of his comrades.
Rowen glanced up and his eyes widen with relief. He looked at the others and they immediately felt as if one problem was lifted off their shoulders. But there was the matter with Flash. She was still bleeding profusely from her wound, and she was starting to develop a fever. Scorpio bit his lip, unsure of what to do. If Thunder was here, he would heal her right away and she would be fine. But he was a prisoner of this Talpa, and there was no way he could contact him.
"Sage! Ryo!" Kento shouted as he stood up and ran toward them. He was really glad to see them, knowing that now they had a winning chance to heal Flash and go after Talpa and Jakada to free their friends. But right now he could not discuss such thoughts. He nodded at Sage who was staring at Flash.
"What happened to her?" he asked, quietly.
Rowen shrugged. "We honestly don't know. White Blaze appeared here carrying her on his back. We think she was in a fight."
"She's already lost so much blood," Scorpio said with a hint of worry to his voice. "I'm afraid she'll die here."
"Not if I can help it!" Sage declared as his eyes flashed for a moment.
"Sage?" Ryo looked at him earnestly. "Do you really think you can help her?"
Sage nodded his head, as he took an intake of air before letting it out again. "I'll do my best." He made his way over to Flash and asked for some space. He was given some and he knelt down at her side. He placed his green armored hand across her body and closed his eyes, concentrating on tapping into the healing energies of the Halo armor. His kanji appeared on his forehead and his energy passed from him to Flash. Behind him, everyone stood quietly watching. The minutes went by, each second more agonizing than the first. Rowen could tell that Sage was doing his best to heal her, that he was fighting a vicious inner battle. He was using up half his healing power to save her, and that was saying something. For Sage hardly ever used that much unless he felt it necessary. Then the wound on Flash began to heal. Slowly at first, it stopped bleeding, then began to close up piece by piece, beginning on the inside and working its way toward the outside. When he put all that he could give into her, Sage fell backward, panting slightly, feeling exhausted. He kept his eyes opened though to see if it had worked. It had. Flash's wound was completely healed and she was resting there peacefully.
"Way to go, Sage," Ryo said with a small smile. He lifted Flash and looked at the others. Now that they were together they could finally put out their full assault on the Dynasty. The only problem was without Cye, he could not call the Inferno armor. They began to walk, passing through a maze of buildings, and being occasionally assaulted by dynasty soldiers. Fighting didn't come easy for Ryo, for he was holding Flash and trying to defend himself at the same time. Twice he had been knocked down and nearly killed until someone saved him.
"How much longer can we keep this up?" Sage wanted to know as he blocked an attack from a soldier.
"We have to keep trying, otherwise we'll never rescue our friends!" Scorpio replied as he somersaulted behind a soldier and struck through it with his spearstaff.
"He's right," Rowen agreed as he took down soldier after soldier with his arrows.
So far the soldiers had them surrounded and the small team was fighting furiously. However just fighting did not seem to be enough. If they did not do something, they would lose this battle. It was then that Kento had had enough. He summoned his surekill and watched as one third of the soldiers were buried in rubble. The others quickly caught on and one by one called their surekills. By the time the soldiers were gone, the Ronins, the Warrior, and the two tigers headed on through, going in the direction of the castle.
Thunder glanced toward Cye and Kaye. Both had fallen asleep moments ago, needing much rest. He felt really bad for them, but there was little he could do. He had always thought his past was bad, but to learn you were related to a tyrant was a whole new matter. He tried to rest himself, but his body would not relax at all. He tried to meditate but could not focus. Finally he decided maybe he needed some fresh air, or perhaps something to do. He was certain there was a library in this castle. He just had to sneak out, find it, find a book, and get back without getting caught. He knew he was probably being stupid, but he could not help it.
He climbed off his bed and headed toward the door. He turned the door knob and pulled it open. Checking the halls he saw the coast was clear and quickly left the room, shutting the door behind him.
Thunder walked down the long massive hallway. Occasionally he'd glance out the windows as he passed by them, wishing he could be out there instead of in. He turned down several hallways, ducking down in hiding whenever a soldier would come by. In general it took him fifteen minutes to find the library. He looked around the room, gazing at the many shelves of books. He knew most were probably of violence and hatred, but perhaps there was book he could get interested in. Heading over to the shelves, he checked the name of each book and read the synopsis of each one. He was correct. Most of these books were filled with nether spirit magic, how to control your opponents, how to kill in torturous ways, just to name a few. He moved down the row of shelves, eyeing the titles yet, and feeling as if there was nothing to read at all. Until he saw a title that caught his eye: "Dynastian History"
Intrigued, he pulled down the book and carried it over to a table and sat down in a chair. He flipped open the book and came to the first page.
˜The dynasty had once began as a simple structure of a world within its own realm. It had many villages, among them the Haukunai Village where the castle of the emperor sat. In time the history of the dynasty became more complex as more and more creatures sought to make their home here. The emperor had once been a kind and generous ruler, who always sought to please his servants. However when his son Talpa came along, all that had changed. For Talpa was cruel, vicious, and soon had the entire realm changed from a once peaceful land to a world conquering force.
It was then that all the villages became one village and under the rule of a new order, known as the evil Dynasty. Talpa grew strong in power, practicing the dark arts of hidden secrets, became a ruler over spirits. When Talpa was defeated by the Ancient One, a monk from the realm Earth, his armor had been stolen from him and was turned into nine mystical armors. Strangely enough the monk could only contain five of these armors as the remaining four were grabbed by Talpa. It was with these four armors that Talpa was able to obtain warriors to wear them. These warriors became known as Warlords and lived to serve Talpa loyally, doing whatever he commanded.
Years later, Talpa also gained control of the last living descendant of the Ancient. Kayura was his only female warrior and was perhaps the best out of all of them. It was with these warriors that Talpa was able to rule the Dynasty and set out to conquer the mortal realm."
"What are you doing in here?!" came an angry, demanding voice which caused Thunder to jump.
Looking up from the book, he saw Talpa in the doorway. He gulped, but did a good job at remaining calm. "Reading," he managed to answer.
Talpa sauntered toward him and snatched the book from him. He read the title of the cover and snorted. "So, you were curious about the Dynasty were you?" he sneered.
Thunder narrowed his eyes. "I was only bored and wanted something to do."
Talpa looked down at him as he lowered the book. "Is that so, Storm? In that case, I will find something more useful for you to do."
Before Thunder could protest, Talpa grabbed him by the arm and hauled him out of the chair. He dragged him out of the library and toward a small room. Inside the room were two buckets, scouring pads and scouring powder. A little confused, the Warrior looked at Talpa. "Fill one bucket up with scouring powder and water, fill the other with hot water. Bring the two buckets, a scouring pad and a drying cloth to the throne room. You have five minutes." Talpa released Thunder and left him alone.
Kaye was the first to awaken, and saw that she and Cye were the only ones in the room. Puzzled, she sat up, wondering where Thunder was. Fear and worry wrapped themselves around her, as she now believed that he could possibly be in a torturous situation with either Talpa or Jakada. She clenched her fists angrily and trembled with rage as tears of helplessness ran down her cheeks. She had no idea of what to do, and did not like it one bit. It wasn't something she was used to. She had always looked after herself, and always looked after others, whether or not they needed it.
Cye was awakened and he glanced at her with a frown as he saw the tears. He immediately stood up and approached her. "Kaye, what's the matter?" he asked, with a hint of worry in his voice.
Kaye answered softly, her voice cracking just a bit as she gestured at Thunder's empty bed. "Thunder's gone, Cye. I think he's being tortured by Talpa or Jakada."
Cye frowned. "Now, we don't know that for sure. We'd hear him screaming, wouldn't we?" He listened for a moment, but then wondered whether or not Thunder was gagged so they could not hear him.
The idea disgusted him, though he didn't understand why Talpa would do that. He wasn't the type to gag someone. For Talpa delighted in screams of those in agony. Then another idea entered his head, but believing that Thunder had escaped was impossible, so that idea quickly melted away. So then where was he?
"I don't know, Cye," Kaye said with a frown as she sat back down on her bed. "All I know is he was gone when I woke."
"If you must know where he is," Jakada's voice said as he entered the room, causing the two siblings to jump, "he's doing something for Talpa at the moment."
"What do you mean he's doing something for Talpa?" Kaye demanded angrily as she glared heatedly at him. She still did not like Jakada's leering gaze at her, and the fact that Cye was growling at him did not seem to faze him as he approached her and leaned closer to her.
"Just as I have said, he's doing something for Talpa. He left the room without permission and was caught in the library. Said he was bored, so Talpa put him to work."
"Doing what?" Cye demanded.
Jakada smiled, holding back a laugh. "Cleaning."
Thunder cursed to himself in German as he scrubbed the floor of the throne room on his hands and knees. This wasn't something he was used to, nor would he ever be. It wasn't that he minded cleaning, but having to get down on all fours was more than he could stand. He wanted to throw down that pad and demand a mop, but the penalty of that action could be severe. He shouldn't have mentioned to Talpa that he had been basically bored, but it was too late now. Talpa sat in his throne reading over a scroll, while his Warlords kept an eye on the Warrior on the floor. They had been ordered to watch him and to make sure he finished his work. For it was important that the floor was thoroughly cleaned.
"Cleaning?" both siblings said with disbelief as they cast one another a glance, before looking back at Jakada.
"Is Talpa too lazy to do his own housework?" Kaye snarled just a bit.
Jakada wrapped an arm around her neck and drew her close to him, his lips just inches from hers. "I'd love for you to do my housework, my pet," he said breathlessly.
Kaye fought to get him to let go and Cye was about to intervene, when Jakada activated his collar. The Ronin of Trust growled and struggled to get free, but he knew moving was now impossible. He watched helplessly as Jakada forced his lips upon Kaye's. Kaye fought with all her might, but it was no good. When he forced his tongue into her mouth, she felt like vomiting. She was disgusted, felt used, and there was nothing she could do about it. By now, Cye's eyes were turning from sea blue to a fiery red as he glared at Jakada despitefully. It was at that sudden moment, when Jakada felt a terrible force propel him backward, where he smashed up against Thunder's bed, denting the side of the frame. Kaye immediately headed into the bathroom to throw up.
Jakada was dazed, but was able to stand up to face Cye. He was shocked at the young Ronin. Could it be that Torrent's inherited powers from Talpa were beginning to surface?
Talpa growled impatiently. He had sent Jakada to retrieve Torrent and Tiger about fifteen minutes ago. Where was he? He had a good idea to that question as he impatiently tapped his fingers against the arm of his throne. By now, Storm was just finishing up the floor, and had done a good job. Not that Talpa would ever praise him.
Feeling more impatient, he let out a angry growl, as he contacted Jakada mentally. 'Jakada, what is taking you so long?' he demanded.
'My apologies, Talpa.' Jakada replied. 'There were some difficulties.'
'If it's taken care of, get them here immediately,' Talpa snapped, and severed the connection.
It took some time but Jakada had finally managed to bring both Tiger and Torrent into the throne room. Immediately their eyes darted over to Thunder was now just rising to his feet, and rubbing his aching knees and hands. So it had been true. He had been cleaning. Talpa looked up as they entered the room and were forced to stand before him. He looked over at Thunder and ordered Sekhmet to take him back to the room to change. Sekhmet grabbed Thunder by the arm and led him away as Kaye and Cye watched over their shoulders. Finally Kaye turned her head back around and glared at the emperor. "Talpa, what's this all about?" she demanded angrily.
"Yeah, what's going on?" Cye wanted to know.
Talpa only smiled mysteriously, knowing they would soon find out. He waited for Storm without answering either of them. He laughed inwardly though, knowing that Tiger was getting impatient and would soon start yelling to know why they were there. But then Storm returned, dressed in drier and cleaner clothes, and was led to stand on Kaye's left side, while Cye stood at her right side.
Talpa stood up now and approached the three prisoners, giving them each an inner chill as he looked into each one's eyes. "You do remember how you were tested to see how much pain you could withstand, do you not?"
"How could we forget?" Thunder muttered, annoyed.
"Well, you'll be happy to know, that now the time has come. The time to summon what I've been seeking to gain control of," Talpa answered as he smiled evilly. The three prisoners gasped in shock.
"You can't mean the Tao form?!" Kaye said in disbelief.
"Oh, but I do," Talpa said with a sneer. "It's time to bring it forth!" He clapped his hands once, and the three prisoners were soon back to back inside a large circle that had suddenly appeared in the center of the floor. Large glowing candlesticks were placed before each one, the flames flickering wildly. Jakada took a bag and approached them, tossing down ashes before their feet. These ashes soon turned to snake like creatures which wrapped themselves around their ankles and sank their fangs into their ankles. Oddly enough, Cye, Kaye, and Thunder barely felt it. It was like having a small pressure poking at you, and it only felt mildly annoying.
Dais, Sekhmet, and Cale, then took their arms and held them out toward one other, and bounded all six hands together with a spiked chain, causing their blood to pour down from their wrists and to drop down to the floor, mixing with together. When the prisoners were secured properly, everyone stepped back as Talpa approached. Every candle, but the three tallest candles, went out, bathing Storm, Torrent, and Tiger in an eerie glow. Talpa smiled dangerously as he stood before them. He had awaited this moment for so long, and now as it was at his fingertips he could just barely taste it. A cold wind blew into the room, causing the three to become chilled. Talpa's eyes flashed. It was time.
Chapter 32.
By the time Ryo had told Sage all that had happened, Sage was very miffed indeed. His visible eye narrowed into a dangerous slit and he tightened his fists at his sides. This was how you could tell he was angry, by that dangerous look in his eyes. Often enough it would just go to prove that even the calmest of warriors could quickly be ensnared by anger. The Ronin of Halo was about to explode, demanding to know why he had fallen into such a trap, and that if he had been more wiser he could have prevented this. He felt ashamed that he had been caught so easily, and through the link of their armors, Ryo could feel his emotions. But he said nothing as of yet. Sage needed to come to terms on his own, to realize that everything happens for a reason and that some cannot be prevented. So until Sage would calm himself, Ryo stayed quiet, leaning against a tree with his arms crossed over his chest. As he allowed himself to politely listen to Sage's rage, his kanji appeared on his forehead and he could feel himself strengthening. Sage must have noticed as well, because he had stopped ranting and stared at Ryo with wide eyes.
"Ryo.. yo..you're glowing!" he stammered.
Ryo looked down in awe. "Well, that's strange. That only happens if there's fire nearby!" He stepped forward and took a whiff of air. The acrid smell of smoke filled his nostrils and as he looked closer he could see columns of smoke rising above the hills in the far off east. "Sage! Fire! Just beyond those hills!"
"Fire?" Sage said incredulous. But he had no time to ask questions. For Ryo was taking off toward the blaze, and he had no choice but to follow him.
The two Ronins ran across hard terrain, had to armor up once again, and dodge and fight their way through Dynasty soldiers that had suddenly appeared, leap across chasms, and run down hills. The smoke was getting heavier now, and Ryo's kanji was flashing like crazy. He could feel himself strengthening more and more the closer they got. Then finally, they could see the fire; several trees and temples were burning vigorously. Sage looked around for the source of the fire, and then his heart leapt for joy. For in a circle, just a few feet before them, were their friends. He glanced at Ryo and ran faster. Ryo increased his speed as well. He had seen Kento, Rowen, Scorpio, and Flash.. and Flash was hurt. Feeling his heart constrict he increased his speed and soon was in full sight of his comrades.
Rowen glanced up and his eyes widen with relief. He looked at the others and they immediately felt as if one problem was lifted off their shoulders. But there was the matter with Flash. She was still bleeding profusely from her wound, and she was starting to develop a fever. Scorpio bit his lip, unsure of what to do. If Thunder was here, he would heal her right away and she would be fine. But he was a prisoner of this Talpa, and there was no way he could contact him.
"Sage! Ryo!" Kento shouted as he stood up and ran toward them. He was really glad to see them, knowing that now they had a winning chance to heal Flash and go after Talpa and Jakada to free their friends. But right now he could not discuss such thoughts. He nodded at Sage who was staring at Flash.
"What happened to her?" he asked, quietly.
Rowen shrugged. "We honestly don't know. White Blaze appeared here carrying her on his back. We think she was in a fight."
"She's already lost so much blood," Scorpio said with a hint of worry to his voice. "I'm afraid she'll die here."
"Not if I can help it!" Sage declared as his eyes flashed for a moment.
"Sage?" Ryo looked at him earnestly. "Do you really think you can help her?"
Sage nodded his head, as he took an intake of air before letting it out again. "I'll do my best." He made his way over to Flash and asked for some space. He was given some and he knelt down at her side. He placed his green armored hand across her body and closed his eyes, concentrating on tapping into the healing energies of the Halo armor. His kanji appeared on his forehead and his energy passed from him to Flash. Behind him, everyone stood quietly watching. The minutes went by, each second more agonizing than the first. Rowen could tell that Sage was doing his best to heal her, that he was fighting a vicious inner battle. He was using up half his healing power to save her, and that was saying something. For Sage hardly ever used that much unless he felt it necessary. Then the wound on Flash began to heal. Slowly at first, it stopped bleeding, then began to close up piece by piece, beginning on the inside and working its way toward the outside. When he put all that he could give into her, Sage fell backward, panting slightly, feeling exhausted. He kept his eyes opened though to see if it had worked. It had. Flash's wound was completely healed and she was resting there peacefully.
"Way to go, Sage," Ryo said with a small smile. He lifted Flash and looked at the others. Now that they were together they could finally put out their full assault on the Dynasty. The only problem was without Cye, he could not call the Inferno armor. They began to walk, passing through a maze of buildings, and being occasionally assaulted by dynasty soldiers. Fighting didn't come easy for Ryo, for he was holding Flash and trying to defend himself at the same time. Twice he had been knocked down and nearly killed until someone saved him.
"How much longer can we keep this up?" Sage wanted to know as he blocked an attack from a soldier.
"We have to keep trying, otherwise we'll never rescue our friends!" Scorpio replied as he somersaulted behind a soldier and struck through it with his spearstaff.
"He's right," Rowen agreed as he took down soldier after soldier with his arrows.
So far the soldiers had them surrounded and the small team was fighting furiously. However just fighting did not seem to be enough. If they did not do something, they would lose this battle. It was then that Kento had had enough. He summoned his surekill and watched as one third of the soldiers were buried in rubble. The others quickly caught on and one by one called their surekills. By the time the soldiers were gone, the Ronins, the Warrior, and the two tigers headed on through, going in the direction of the castle.
Thunder glanced toward Cye and Kaye. Both had fallen asleep moments ago, needing much rest. He felt really bad for them, but there was little he could do. He had always thought his past was bad, but to learn you were related to a tyrant was a whole new matter. He tried to rest himself, but his body would not relax at all. He tried to meditate but could not focus. Finally he decided maybe he needed some fresh air, or perhaps something to do. He was certain there was a library in this castle. He just had to sneak out, find it, find a book, and get back without getting caught. He knew he was probably being stupid, but he could not help it.
He climbed off his bed and headed toward the door. He turned the door knob and pulled it open. Checking the halls he saw the coast was clear and quickly left the room, shutting the door behind him.
Thunder walked down the long massive hallway. Occasionally he'd glance out the windows as he passed by them, wishing he could be out there instead of in. He turned down several hallways, ducking down in hiding whenever a soldier would come by. In general it took him fifteen minutes to find the library. He looked around the room, gazing at the many shelves of books. He knew most were probably of violence and hatred, but perhaps there was book he could get interested in. Heading over to the shelves, he checked the name of each book and read the synopsis of each one. He was correct. Most of these books were filled with nether spirit magic, how to control your opponents, how to kill in torturous ways, just to name a few. He moved down the row of shelves, eyeing the titles yet, and feeling as if there was nothing to read at all. Until he saw a title that caught his eye: "Dynastian History"
Intrigued, he pulled down the book and carried it over to a table and sat down in a chair. He flipped open the book and came to the first page.
˜The dynasty had once began as a simple structure of a world within its own realm. It had many villages, among them the Haukunai Village where the castle of the emperor sat. In time the history of the dynasty became more complex as more and more creatures sought to make their home here. The emperor had once been a kind and generous ruler, who always sought to please his servants. However when his son Talpa came along, all that had changed. For Talpa was cruel, vicious, and soon had the entire realm changed from a once peaceful land to a world conquering force.
It was then that all the villages became one village and under the rule of a new order, known as the evil Dynasty. Talpa grew strong in power, practicing the dark arts of hidden secrets, became a ruler over spirits. When Talpa was defeated by the Ancient One, a monk from the realm Earth, his armor had been stolen from him and was turned into nine mystical armors. Strangely enough the monk could only contain five of these armors as the remaining four were grabbed by Talpa. It was with these four armors that Talpa was able to obtain warriors to wear them. These warriors became known as Warlords and lived to serve Talpa loyally, doing whatever he commanded.
Years later, Talpa also gained control of the last living descendant of the Ancient. Kayura was his only female warrior and was perhaps the best out of all of them. It was with these warriors that Talpa was able to rule the Dynasty and set out to conquer the mortal realm."
"What are you doing in here?!" came an angry, demanding voice which caused Thunder to jump.
Looking up from the book, he saw Talpa in the doorway. He gulped, but did a good job at remaining calm. "Reading," he managed to answer.
Talpa sauntered toward him and snatched the book from him. He read the title of the cover and snorted. "So, you were curious about the Dynasty were you?" he sneered.
Thunder narrowed his eyes. "I was only bored and wanted something to do."
Talpa looked down at him as he lowered the book. "Is that so, Storm? In that case, I will find something more useful for you to do."
Before Thunder could protest, Talpa grabbed him by the arm and hauled him out of the chair. He dragged him out of the library and toward a small room. Inside the room were two buckets, scouring pads and scouring powder. A little confused, the Warrior looked at Talpa. "Fill one bucket up with scouring powder and water, fill the other with hot water. Bring the two buckets, a scouring pad and a drying cloth to the throne room. You have five minutes." Talpa released Thunder and left him alone.
Kaye was the first to awaken, and saw that she and Cye were the only ones in the room. Puzzled, she sat up, wondering where Thunder was. Fear and worry wrapped themselves around her, as she now believed that he could possibly be in a torturous situation with either Talpa or Jakada. She clenched her fists angrily and trembled with rage as tears of helplessness ran down her cheeks. She had no idea of what to do, and did not like it one bit. It wasn't something she was used to. She had always looked after herself, and always looked after others, whether or not they needed it.
Cye was awakened and he glanced at her with a frown as he saw the tears. He immediately stood up and approached her. "Kaye, what's the matter?" he asked, with a hint of worry in his voice.
Kaye answered softly, her voice cracking just a bit as she gestured at Thunder's empty bed. "Thunder's gone, Cye. I think he's being tortured by Talpa or Jakada."
Cye frowned. "Now, we don't know that for sure. We'd hear him screaming, wouldn't we?" He listened for a moment, but then wondered whether or not Thunder was gagged so they could not hear him.
The idea disgusted him, though he didn't understand why Talpa would do that. He wasn't the type to gag someone. For Talpa delighted in screams of those in agony. Then another idea entered his head, but believing that Thunder had escaped was impossible, so that idea quickly melted away. So then where was he?
"I don't know, Cye," Kaye said with a frown as she sat back down on her bed. "All I know is he was gone when I woke."
"If you must know where he is," Jakada's voice said as he entered the room, causing the two siblings to jump, "he's doing something for Talpa at the moment."
"What do you mean he's doing something for Talpa?" Kaye demanded angrily as she glared heatedly at him. She still did not like Jakada's leering gaze at her, and the fact that Cye was growling at him did not seem to faze him as he approached her and leaned closer to her.
"Just as I have said, he's doing something for Talpa. He left the room without permission and was caught in the library. Said he was bored, so Talpa put him to work."
"Doing what?" Cye demanded.
Jakada smiled, holding back a laugh. "Cleaning."
Thunder cursed to himself in German as he scrubbed the floor of the throne room on his hands and knees. This wasn't something he was used to, nor would he ever be. It wasn't that he minded cleaning, but having to get down on all fours was more than he could stand. He wanted to throw down that pad and demand a mop, but the penalty of that action could be severe. He shouldn't have mentioned to Talpa that he had been basically bored, but it was too late now. Talpa sat in his throne reading over a scroll, while his Warlords kept an eye on the Warrior on the floor. They had been ordered to watch him and to make sure he finished his work. For it was important that the floor was thoroughly cleaned.
"Cleaning?" both siblings said with disbelief as they cast one another a glance, before looking back at Jakada.
"Is Talpa too lazy to do his own housework?" Kaye snarled just a bit.
Jakada wrapped an arm around her neck and drew her close to him, his lips just inches from hers. "I'd love for you to do my housework, my pet," he said breathlessly.
Kaye fought to get him to let go and Cye was about to intervene, when Jakada activated his collar. The Ronin of Trust growled and struggled to get free, but he knew moving was now impossible. He watched helplessly as Jakada forced his lips upon Kaye's. Kaye fought with all her might, but it was no good. When he forced his tongue into her mouth, she felt like vomiting. She was disgusted, felt used, and there was nothing she could do about it. By now, Cye's eyes were turning from sea blue to a fiery red as he glared at Jakada despitefully. It was at that sudden moment, when Jakada felt a terrible force propel him backward, where he smashed up against Thunder's bed, denting the side of the frame. Kaye immediately headed into the bathroom to throw up.
Jakada was dazed, but was able to stand up to face Cye. He was shocked at the young Ronin. Could it be that Torrent's inherited powers from Talpa were beginning to surface?
Talpa growled impatiently. He had sent Jakada to retrieve Torrent and Tiger about fifteen minutes ago. Where was he? He had a good idea to that question as he impatiently tapped his fingers against the arm of his throne. By now, Storm was just finishing up the floor, and had done a good job. Not that Talpa would ever praise him.
Feeling more impatient, he let out a angry growl, as he contacted Jakada mentally. 'Jakada, what is taking you so long?' he demanded.
'My apologies, Talpa.' Jakada replied. 'There were some difficulties.'
'If it's taken care of, get them here immediately,' Talpa snapped, and severed the connection.
It took some time but Jakada had finally managed to bring both Tiger and Torrent into the throne room. Immediately their eyes darted over to Thunder was now just rising to his feet, and rubbing his aching knees and hands. So it had been true. He had been cleaning. Talpa looked up as they entered the room and were forced to stand before him. He looked over at Thunder and ordered Sekhmet to take him back to the room to change. Sekhmet grabbed Thunder by the arm and led him away as Kaye and Cye watched over their shoulders. Finally Kaye turned her head back around and glared at the emperor. "Talpa, what's this all about?" she demanded angrily.
"Yeah, what's going on?" Cye wanted to know.
Talpa only smiled mysteriously, knowing they would soon find out. He waited for Storm without answering either of them. He laughed inwardly though, knowing that Tiger was getting impatient and would soon start yelling to know why they were there. But then Storm returned, dressed in drier and cleaner clothes, and was led to stand on Kaye's left side, while Cye stood at her right side.
Talpa stood up now and approached the three prisoners, giving them each an inner chill as he looked into each one's eyes. "You do remember how you were tested to see how much pain you could withstand, do you not?"
"How could we forget?" Thunder muttered, annoyed.
"Well, you'll be happy to know, that now the time has come. The time to summon what I've been seeking to gain control of," Talpa answered as he smiled evilly. The three prisoners gasped in shock.
"You can't mean the Tao form?!" Kaye said in disbelief.
"Oh, but I do," Talpa said with a sneer. "It's time to bring it forth!" He clapped his hands once, and the three prisoners were soon back to back inside a large circle that had suddenly appeared in the center of the floor. Large glowing candlesticks were placed before each one, the flames flickering wildly. Jakada took a bag and approached them, tossing down ashes before their feet. These ashes soon turned to snake like creatures which wrapped themselves around their ankles and sank their fangs into their ankles. Oddly enough, Cye, Kaye, and Thunder barely felt it. It was like having a small pressure poking at you, and it only felt mildly annoying.
Dais, Sekhmet, and Cale, then took their arms and held them out toward one other, and bounded all six hands together with a spiked chain, causing their blood to pour down from their wrists and to drop down to the floor, mixing with together. When the prisoners were secured properly, everyone stepped back as Talpa approached. Every candle, but the three tallest candles, went out, bathing Storm, Torrent, and Tiger in an eerie glow. Talpa smiled dangerously as he stood before them. He had awaited this moment for so long, and now as it was at his fingertips he could just barely taste it. A cold wind blew into the room, causing the three to become chilled. Talpa's eyes flashed. It was time.