Sorry for the lack of updates. Look on the bright side! One more chapter and this part of Teknisk Wereld will be done!
John: Yes, again. Like mother like daughter. And believe me, I have considered using that combo, but it just isn't worth the effort.
Demon Fan: Thanks. And now you do know. P
Captain Obvious: Thanks for the compliment. As for the Magic User deck idea… that's Will. And Rue, in a nutshell.
Chapter 29: Life's Hints
Claire was sitting on the bank, looking over the golden cross as she waited for her four friends to arrive.
"It's a pretty object… too bad it had to be put to such evil uses," Claire sighed.
Perseus looked over at the woods. "I think they're coming now."
"Amy! Matt! Sarius! Over here!" Claire called.
The four of them came out, with Sakura, Raid, and Cyrus following.
"Hey Claire," Amy greeted. She accidentally tripped over an uneven part of the ground, but Sakura caught her. Unfortunately, it was by her injured arm, and she yelped in pain.
"What's wrong!" Claire exclaimed.
"It's nothing serious," Amy shrugged, and winced at the movement of her arm. "Just a shallow wound, but it's healed… what's been going on here?"
"The others went into the lake," Claire explained. "I was to stay behind to tell you guys, and to hold on to this." She held out the cross.
Sarius took it. "I'll make sure this is put somewhere safe. Or destroyed."
"So now we wait?" Matt inferred.
"That would be right," Sarius replied, sitting down by the lake edge. "All we can do is hope they'll succeed."
…
Rue had no idea where he was. He looked around, only to see that he was bound upon a stone cross with several symbols written on it. The cross was on a stone, with yet more symbols.
He was in what could only be a cemetery. Gravestones and statues were all over the place in neat rows. There was an aisle though, for there were no graves in front of the cross he was bound on. There was a darker area at the end of the gravestones, which could have been a portal or something of the sort. It was a grey, cloudy night, and the stars and moon were hidden.
What happened? Where am I? Ruecian! Is he ok? Rue looked around the area again, as though hoping to see an answer to his questions. But there was nobody there.
And why do I feel so… weakened? My head hurts like hell, sure, but the rest of my body feels really weak…
"How irritating. It seems whoever has captured us knows some of my weaknesses. With these symbols on a holy object, such as a cross, my powers are useless!"
Rue closed his eyes. That voice again… but I think it's coming from inside my head… who are you!
"About time you've caught on. I'm surprised you didn't guess this sooner. I am Demon Rue."
Demon Rue! Who are you! Why are you inside of me!
"Who am I? That is a difficult question to answer, so I will just ignore it. As for why I am inside of you… let's just say that I am a little clueless on that one too. My memory has faded away, and I can recall nothing on the matter."
You took over me! You caused me to kill ones that didn't deserve death!
"You cannot make me discard my nature. I am a demon. Killing is a hobby to me."
Then get your own damn body so that you can kill others without involving me!
"Believe me, if I could, I would. Your human body is too pathetic and weak for me to handle well. Then again, it does have benefits. At least I am not being burned by the cross, since your human flesh protects you. But still, I am very weakened… I cannot stay. I must rest…"
Wait! I'm not finished with you yet!
There was no response.
Damn it all. Just when I was getting some answers… I guess all I can do now is wait for something to happen. That doesn't necessarily reassure me.
…
Hope slowly opened her eyes. What she saw made her sit up instantly.
Everyone had made it, and were coming to as well. They were lying on grey stone tile inside a magnificent building. There were several wooden pews, which is where they had been laying. There was a huge wooden door as well, with engraved symbols that they could not make out. It also had elegant golden handles. The walls around them had several stained glass windows. They all showed different scenes and pictures that related with religion. Hope didn't study them though, for what was up front had caught her attention.
There were steps that led to the front, where a beautiful wooden cross was. Red, velvet drapes were behind it, concealing the walls. There were also three pictures behind it, all of them obviously painted by a master artist, that the velvet drapes were curled around so that the portraits could still be seen. They looked very life like, and Hope was astonished at how vivid they appeared. The one to the left showed Jesus Christ crucified, blood running down his body. Agony showed on his face, but Hope also recognized another emotion… sorrow? Pity? Yes, that was it, sorrow and pity for what God's children had become.
The one on the right was someone who could only be God. He wore a brown cloak and held a simple wooden staff. His face was drawn to show kindness and love, but it was his eyes that made you trust him. His eyes made Hope feel more safe than she had ever felt in her entire life.
But the one in the center was what really caught her attention. It had three creatures drawn on it. The one to the left was a huge, blue creature that had a human stature. It had blood red eyes and white teeth that gleamed. Two spike-like objects came out of each of his shoulders that appeared to be armored. His whole body was built like a fighter's, someone with powerful muscles that stood out. Spike-like things came out of his head as well, making his head look like an elegant crown of some sort. A deadly, yet compelling piece of work. On its forehead was a huge, slightly darker blue jewel that sparkled in a mesmerizing manner.
The one in the center was a huge, snake-like dragon. Its body was red, except for its underbelly, which had black, hard scales. Its wings were also red. It had several feet that had three white claws. But Hope couldn't count how many there were, because the body stretched on and on and on… it went on forever. It coiled around another thing in the picture almost lovingly, and the body went out of the frame after that. It also had several red spikes. On its forehead was another blue jewel, much like the first creature's. It also had two mouths, both with had glinting, silver teeth. Its glaring eyes were yellow.
The last creature was on the right. It had a golden body that shone like the setting sun. It walked on two legs, and each one had three golden claws. It had a long tail that was curled around the frame of the portrait. It had two short, yet sturdy arms with three golden claws as well. Its wings were enormous, and in fact were bigger than the beast itself. Its head looked like an eagle's, except that no eagle had teeth as well as a beak. Its eyes were also a horrifying red.
Hope had to suppress a yelp when she saw what else was in the picture though. The red dragon was actually coiling around an all-too familiar figure. His black clothes… his claw-like fingernails… his silver hair… the pitchfork strapped across his back… the controlled black aura around him… Satan. It could only be him. His eyes were closed though, as though he was sleeping. His expression betrayed nothing, simply being in a calm state. And all three creatures watched him.
Hope didn't know how, but those three creatures seemed familiar to her somehow. Like a distant memory she had forgotten and was just rediscovering. But she could not figure out why they seemed recognizable. And the picture of Satan did not bring back pleasant memories either. She forced herself to tear her eyes away from the picture.
There was also something else. It was another, but smaller, wooden door. Engraved on it was a wooden staff crossing over a pitchfork. Words were also written there, but Hope was too far away from the door to be able to make them out.
There was also a balcony above the center. It had a wooden door that led to it as well, and another wooden door that led elsewhere. Where that would be, Hope did not know.
The whole area made Hope feel more secure than she had for a very long time. It wasn't pure light… the portrait with Satan reminded her of that. But it was the exact opposite of the General of Hell area, that was for sure. She could feel the light, it was so strong.
It could only be one thing: a church.
But they were not alone. There was someone else there as well. At the front of the room was a man. He too wore a beautiful white robe. His back was to them though, so they could not be sure of what his face was like, but he had shoulder-length blonde hair. He was kneeling in front of the cross, his hands clasped in prayer.
Hope got up slowly, looking over to see the others. They also rose, examining the church with awe. The only difference was that nobody reacted to the picture of Satan like Hope had.
Actually, Max DID react. He paled as he caught sight of the picture, and forced himself to quit gazing at it, much like Hope had.
What did he see? Hope wondered. Gaston and I are the only ones who saw Satan… the others did as well, but they can't recall it like I can…
That blue creature... I recognize it… but how? Max thought.
"What is this place?" Draken whispered, keeping his eyes on the figure up front.
"I'm not sure," Hope replied. "But it seems like a church. It's so peaceful…"
"I agree. I've never felt this well in my entire life," Larka said. "There's so much light energy…"
"That must explain how I feel," Gen stated. "I feel very energized… but I am a Light Main-Type. Perhaps that is why?"
"I think you're right," Darche nodded. "I feel the same. Neo, Malon?"
"Yep," Neo responded.
Malon gave a soft yip.
"But I feel weak…" Mana complained. She certainly didn't look her best. She was slumped against a pew, clutching her staff as though it was a lifeline.
"I also seem to lack power," Daine agreed. "Perhaps it is because we are Dark Main-Types. Ruecian? Olympion?"
Ruecian nodded, but Olympion didn't reply. Nobody had really expected him to.
"We've come too far to back out now. How about we talk to him?" Will suggested, indicating to the man up front.
"But what if he is an enemy?" Brandi pointed out.
"He isn't," Hope said automatically. "I don't know how I know, but I'm positive he isn't an enemy." And with that, she started walking down the aisle. The others, after some hesitation, followed.
The man did not rise as they approached, but began to speak. "So you have come."
"What is this place?" Zack asked.
"That is a difficult question to answer. The Commanders of Heaven have made this their location, so you could call it the destination you wanted to reach. All you need to do is go through the door above here."
All their eyes went to the wooden door on the balcony area.
"It can't be that easy," Miles protested. "What's the catch?"
"I see you have learned that all tasks require more than you might believe at first sight. To get through that door, you must travel through a certain room. In there, you will see a vision. Whether this is something you wish to see or not, you must go through it in order to continue. Be warned: what you will see might change your life forever. But it could also give you great strength to face your enemy."
"Why are you helping us?" Brandi inquired.
"The Commanders of Heaven oppose the Lord. They are my enemy as well."
"What? They oppose God? You mean they aren't trying to resurrect him, like the Generals of Hell were trying to do for Satan?" Will asked.
"Think about their names. Generals of Hell… they served Lucifer. But the Commanders of Heaven want to overthrow God and seize control of Heaven."
"They're insane!" Draken exclaimed. "How can they expect to win against God?"
"Look at the center portrait."
They turned their gazes to it.
"In that picture you see the three gods. There is Immense Divine Soldier of Obelisk, Saint Dragon-God of Osiris, and Ra-The Sun of God Dragon. These creatures in their true forms have power that could stand up to God. Yet these creatures were too strong. God managed to take away some of their power by sealing them into cards. He could not destroy them though, for they have far too much power, and power cannot be simply discarded. If all three gods returned to their former might, they could very well be unstoppable."
"Why is… Satan… in that picture as well?" Hope asked nervously.
"…Your name is Hope, correct?"
"Huh? Oh, uh, yes," she answered, somewhat confused about how he had known.
"The gods were created by Lucifer. They are actually parts of him that he made to battle God with."
"What do you mean, they are parts of him?" Will inquired.
"Lucifer took his very essence and tore it apart. Using his powers, he created the three gods. He has also created other things. One would be the enemy you fought, Hope."
"You mean… that wasn't really Satan?" Hope inferred.
"It was a part of him, and it is the form he most commonly takes. But the real Lucifer is still as he is in this picture-asleep. He will not rise until all three god cards are unsealed and brought together."
"How are they supposed to be unsealed?" Larka queried.
"When one of the cards is summoned in a duel, the seal is broken. But not just any duelist can use a god card. They are judged by the god, and if found worthy, perhaps the god will lend its strength. However, if you are found unworthy, the god will turn on you and kill you."
"I think I understand now," Will said thoughtfully. "The Commanders of Heaven are trying to collect all of the god cards to unseal them, and then try to overthrow God. They may not support Satan, but they are not aware that the gods are on his side. Is that right?"
"Correct," the man replied.
"But why would they take Rue then?" Miles wondered.
"You are aware that he is the host for a demon, correct?" the man asked.
"Yes," Hope nodded.
"The leader of the Commanders thinks that a sacrifice might cause the gods to accept him as their master. That demon has enough dark energy sealed inside of himself to please all three gods, if it comes to that. So he shall slay your companion as an offering."
"Then we must hurry!" Larka exclaimed.
"But in truth… they have taken the wrong person," the man stated. "There is one who would serve as a much better sacrifice."
Nobody knew what to say to that.
"If you are prepared to go through the ordeals to save your friend, then let us begin." The man finally stood, and turned to face them.
His face was too perfect. Flawless, unmarked, fair was an understatement. But his eyes were what grasped them. Those pale blue eyes that spoke of wisdom beyond any human's. In fact… he couldn't be human. It was impossible. His eyes showed too much from ordeals faced to make them think otherwise.
"Each of you will have to go through that door, one at a time. When your ordeal is done, you are to exit the room. When you are above us, then the next person may go in. There is no specific order that you must go in."
They walked over to the door to examine it. Max indicated to the staff and pitchfork. "What do those stand for?"
"You may face good or evil in there. The staff symbolizes God and light. The pitchfork symbolizes Lucifer and darkness."
"You keep calling him Lucifer," Will noticed. "Is there a reason?"
"It is the name I know him by," the man said simply.
Hope looked down at the writing. It was in a language she didn't recognize.
"What does that writing say?" Draken asked.
"Your soul shall be revealed for what it is. Whether this is what you wish to see or not, the knowledge will strengthen you. Remember what you experience, for it is vital."
Everyone stared at Hope in amazement. She blushed slightly. "I have no idea how I knew that…"
"So you can read it," the man confirmed. "I expected no less."
The others finally tore their eyes away from Hope to look over at the man.
"You all must go eventually. Who will be the first to face their ordeal?"
The silence seemed even thicker now. The man and the words on the door had caused them all to feel very hesitant.
To their surprise though, Fell stepped forward. "I will."
"You, going first?" Draken said scornfully. "You sure you can handle whatever you see?"
"Draken, enough!" Hope said. "We don't have time for petty arguments! Rue could die any minute! So please, save any insults you have for later!"
"Yeah… sorry," Draken muttered.
The man examined Fell. "You are sure?"
"Yes."
"What about our Soul Monsters?" Will asked. "Oh, sorry, I didn't mean to interrupt, but I just thought of this. Are our Soul Monsters allowed to come in with us?"
"No. Unless your ordeal tells you otherwise, your Soul Monsters are to remain in their Soul Cards."
"Very well. I will be back as soon as you call me, master," Daine assured before vanishing.
"If you are ready, then enter," the man said.
Fell nodded, and opened the door. White light came out from it, blinding them. Then it closed. When they could manage to see again, Fell was gone.
"I hope he'll be alright…" Larka whispered.
Malon whined slightly.
"He'll be fine," Hope reassured. "We'll all get through this. We have to. Rue is counting on us."
…
Fell had been blinded by the light at first, but now he was in total darkness. The door was gone. There was nothing there except for himself, the only thing in this world of darkness.
What is this place? he thought, looking all around the area. Is this supposed to be the ordeal?
"…Fell…"
He looked over in the direction he had heard the voice, but saw nothing.
Am I just imagining things?
"…Fell…"
No, there it was again. He looked back in the direction it had come from. "Who's there!"
"…Fell."
He turned once more, but this time found the speaker. It was a young boy. He wore a short-sleeved black shirt and black pants, much like Fell's. Also like him, he had on no shoes. He also had black hair, and brown eyes that reflected sorrow.
Fell took a step back. "You're…"
"I see you recognize me," the boy stated.
"You're… me…"
"Yes," he whispered. "I am you. You when you were younger… only six… do you remember…?"
"…"
"A time when you wanted nothing more than to have friends," his younger self said quietly. "For you and your sister to have companions. Yes, your sister was everything to you back then. Her and your parents. The only quality that has remained with you for all of these years is your loyalty to your sister."
He stepped forward. "What happened to your other feelings? The ones of loneliness, and your desire for friends?"
"…"
"You didn't lose them, did you? You still feel lost and alone."
"…Why would I?" Fell objected. "I don't care about that kind of thing anymore."
"But you do," was his reply. "You act as though you do not, and perhaps you do not even realize that you have those feelings, for you have stored them away. However, you must have those feelings still, or else I would not exist."
"What?"
His younger version solemnly held out his arm. It appeared to be normal… and then suddenly faded.
"I am barely holding on," he said softly. "Barely. You have neglected your feelings for far too long. If you continue to do this, then I will vanish. And you will be left with only one personality…"
"Which would be me."
Fell spun around to see another figure appear. This one looked just like him at first glance. But then he saw that his counterpart had longer, sharper fingernails, teeth that looked more like fangs, and red eyes.
"Are you…?"
"You normally only see me on a full moon," the older one smirked. "I am the wolf that is in you, the artificial part that Viken placed within your blood. But I am not completely synthetic. You also formed me from the feelings you have pent up inside of you. The hatred for what that wretched man did to you and your sister, the desire you have for revenge, the pain from what has occurred to you for your entire life! You are slowly becoming what I am. Soon, you will be nothing more than a soulless beast, existing only to feel the delight of killing."
"...I will? But isn't that… what I have wanted?"
"You only think you want that to happen," his younger self whispered. He never spoke up, and it was always difficult to make out his words. Was that because his existence was about to end? "But you do care enough to keep your soul intact. Why else would you want to keep Daine close by you when a full moon approaches? You do not want meaningless deaths. But that is not all. You said it yourself-you care too much about your sister to let go of your emotions. You try to ignore her words, but you cannot, for she is the only person you have allowed yourself to connect with."
"…"
"She cares about you… you cannot ignore it. If she requests something, you listen to her. She has made many friends and loves this new chance at life she has been given, and she wants you to enjoy it too. That is why she asks you to try and make friends among this group."
"…Yes… she does want that… but she does not understand how I feel." Fell was not sure why he was even bothering to try and convince these two. They were parts of him, right? Then shouldn't they know how he felt?
"On the contrary, nobody understands more than her," his older version growled. "She has gone through the same things you have, and knows of the pain just as well as you. She just chooses to deal with it differently."
"Why are you assisting me?" Fell asked him. "Don't you want to take over my body?"
"As strange as it is, I've grown used to staying dormant. I'd prefer to only keep a part of you; it's much more interesting."
"Why do you refuse to show your true feelings? To show part of me?" whispered his younger self. "Is it because you fear having more pain?"
Fell had never felt this way before, like he had to express all of his feelings to someone. But if this was the ordeal…
"…It is more than that. I have felt physical pain, but it always heals. I could not take away my sister's pain though. Her cries hurt me far more than Viken did... I could heal over time from wounds to my body, but my soul cannot."
"That is understandable," his younger self said softly. "But you must remember this. You care for your sister more than yourself, correct?"
"…Yes."
"She has been hurt by your actions. So in a way, she is going through the pain you have been so desperately trying to avoid. Is that what you want? Also, do not forget… that you might be hurt more by trying to push everyone out of your life, than if you knew them and they died. You have wanted companions, and this is your chance, perhaps your only chance, to get them."
Fell looked over into the distance. "My ways… I have lived by them for ten years, and you are telling me to just change them?"
"Not immediately," was his quiet response. "Just gradually begin to get to know them. Accept your sister and grow to show your love for her. As time passes, they will become your friends, as long as you give them that chance."
"Unless they don't give me one," Fell muttered. "You are part of me, so you must know what I have seen and done. And I can think of a few people who might not, such as Max."
"Once you change your outlook on things, he will learn to accept you," assured his younger self. "He is just reacting to how he sees you now. Once you act somewhat differently, he will become accustomed to you. Although he may never admit it..."
"So, will you think over this?" growled his older form.
"I will do at least that much," Fell nodded.
"Then it is done…" murmured his younger version as he walked forward. As he did, the older version leapt right into him. A flash of light obstructed the vision, before they were revealed again. This form looked exactly like Fell did now.
"To show us that you mean this, take my hand," his copy ordered. The voice was a cross between a whisper and the snarling voice that had been the young and old form. And the copy held out his right hand.
Fell hesitated, and then reached out with his own right hand, clasping his copy's own.
Then he felt something merge with him. Light blinded him for the third time as he felt something enter him.
When he could see again, he was in an empty room. The floor, walls, and ceiling were made from stone tiles. There was a stained glass window on the wall opposite of the door, a huge one. It had a black background, with a yellow cross.
The cross had been glowing white. Now the glow was fading away.
Fell made a mental note to think about the window later. At the moment, he had too many things to consider.
…
It was silent outside. Minutes seemed to stretch into hours as the rest of the group waited nervously while sitting on the front row of pews. Only the man seemed calm, gazing over at the balcony.
At long last, the upper door opened. Everyone glanced up, and saw Fell walk out, closing the door behind him.
"Fell! Are you alright?" Larka exclaimed.
Fell looked over at her and nodded before bringing out his Soul Card. Daine appeared instantly, looking over inquiringly but not asking his master about what had happened.
"Well done," the man nodded. "Wait up there while your companions go through the room as well. Who will go next?"
"I will," Max volunteered, glancing over at Fell, who gazed back calmly.
Olympion vanished in response to his words. Then Max stepped over to the door and went inside. The light flooded out, causing them to cover their eyes. And then Max was gone.
…
Max was alone in an area of darkness. There was nothing else there but himself, since the door had vanished.
Alright, now what? he wondered.
Then he saw something ahead. It was some kind of land, but he could not make out any details, as it was too far away.
Better than just standing here, Max shrugged, and began walking towards it. That in itself felt strange; walking on darkness was something he did not commonly do, after all. But he didn't think about it, assuming that just about anything could happen in here.
He finally reached the land, and felt somewhat relieved to be able to see what he was stepping on now. He was on a dirt ground now, with no living things in sight. It was nighttime, and the sky was covered with grey clouds. It would rain soon.
As he walked on, his prediction came true. Raindrops began pouring from the sky, and soon a lightning bolt crashed above him.
When will this end? So far, all I've seen is land, and all I've gotten for my troubles is a bunch of soaked clothes, Max thought in disgust.
Then he finally saw something in the barren land. An object was up ahead.
About time! He ran up to it, wanting to get the ordeal over with quickly.
And then stopped and stared at the object, horrified.
It was the body of his sister. Brandi lay there, dead, blood still pouring from her wounds.
But she wasn't the only one. Hope, Rue, Claire, Will, Miles, Draken, Fell, Larka, Zack, they were all there too, all dead. And they all had multiple wounds.
Max stared at them, shaken. This can't be real… it's just an illusion… it's just an illusion…
"Or is it?"
Max spun around to see someone standing there. And stepped back in shock. It was him. Yet there was something wrong with him… his eyes were bloodshot, and that grin… that evil, delighted grin he wore… Max could barely stand to look at him. He had never seen anything as terrifying in his entire life, and that was indeed saying something.
"Are you sure it is just an illusion?" he smirked. "Or is it a mere telling of the future? You call them your friends? It is a pity that they chose you to befriend, seeing as you will one day be their executioner."
"What? Why would I kill them!" Max exclaimed. "You're wrong! I wouldn't!"
"Deny it all you like," his other self sneered. "But it will happen. They will die, and it will be all your fault."
Then everything faded away, and Max was left in the cold, stone room with the stained glass window.
Max sat there for a few minutes, taking deep breathes to try and calm himself.
Get a grip on yourself, he thought. It was just a test… nothing more…
But with that person still on his mind, he was finding it hard to convince himself.
…
Everyone glanced up as the door opened and Max came out. He looked somewhat pale, but otherwise, he seemed fine.
"Max? Are you ok?" Brandi asked.
"…Yeah." Max took out his Soul Card, calling out Olympion.
"I want to go next!" Brandi declared before the man could ask.
"Very well."
For once, Mana did not object about going back to her Soul Card. Brandi flung open the door. Once more, the light came out of the room. And once more, when it was gone, so was one of their companions.
…
At first, there was only darkness around Brandi. But then it began to change, forming a scene. She was standing in a location she knew well. It was a beach nearby her home. The home she had before running away, that is.
Yes, there was no mistaking it. She was back on Myrtle Beach.
Down by the waters, she saw a group of people. She approached cautiously, not knowing what to expect.
When she was nearby, she suddenly realized who she was seeing. It was Randall, Abby, and Max. They were talking to each other, laughing together.
Brandi smiled slightly as she watched. She recognized this. It had taken place about six years ago, before… Randall had died…
Where am I? Brandi wondered. I remember being here as well, but…
"I see you remember this day."
Brandi jumped in shock, turning to look behind her.
There stood a copy of her. Well, she almost looked exactly like Brandi, except that she was younger.
"What? Why… aren't you over there?" Brandi asked.
The younger girl glared at her. "Because I have to talk with you, of course. What on earth has happened to you?"
"Huh?"
"I used to know you, but you act nothing as you did before! Look at you now. Back then, you cared about your family and friends…" She indicated to the trio nearby. "But now you only care for your brother and yourself. Are you heartless or something?"
"That isn't true!" Brandi exclaimed. But she knew, as she said it, that she was trying to convince herself just as much as she was trying to convince her counterpart.
"Quit denying it. You act as though you love Matt, but you are not taking your relationship seriously!"
"That's… I just…" Brandi couldn't make herself continue.
"And what about your hopes and dreams? Did you lose sight on those when your father died? You are being selfish!" spat her younger self. "Rethink your actions, or you will never have the relationship you are being offered, or the better life you have a chance to live!"
Then she ran off, down towards her family.
She's right… I have to accept this new life. Because I cannot go back to my old one, Brandi thought sadly.
Then light obstructed her vision. When it cleared, she was in the room, staring up at the stained glass window.
…
Brandi walked out of the room, causing everyone to look over at her.
"Did it go well?" Max inquired. He looked better now, as though he had gotten over what he had seen. In truth, he hadn't, but he would worry about it later.
Brandi shrugged slightly before bringing out Mana.
"I think I'll go now," Will decided. "It'll be better to just get it over with."
"Then go forth," the man said.
After Neo was gone, he strode inside.
…
Like the others before him, all he saw was blackness at first.
Then he heard a voice speak.
"Knowledge bearer, I can offer no further assistance to the upcoming fight. But perhaps this wisdom will assist you in the future."
Then the darkness cleared, leaving Will to be able to see.
Max stood in front of a big, blue creature that was about to attack… the one that he had seen in the center picture.
And then, just as quickly as that vision had come, another took its place. Three shadowy figures stood in front of him, speaking to each other. One seemed to be laughing.
Then another vision came. Brandi was lying on the ground, unconscious, while someone else ran away…
And the visions kept coming and changing.
A cloaked figure lay on the ground, in the forest.
Zack was lying on the couch, in serious pain.
Will's skin felt as though it were being branded. This agony… he wanted to die…
Miles stared straight ahead at a house on fire, his eyes filled with sorrow and regret for what he had done…
Hope was on a river bank, coughing and trying desperately to breathe.
Fell was on the ground, bleeding from several wounds, while Larka cried over him.
Draken was talking with a girl who lay in bed. She laughed at whatever he was saying.
A figure was trying to strangle another.
Brandi was screaming in pain as a whip came down upon her.
Larka was speaking with Matt, whose eyes were filled with rage.
Miles was looking at Gen, with astonishment in his eyes.
Rue was sitting in a chair, oddly off balance.
A mechanical robot was charging at them, only to be stopped as Zack leapt at him.
A man was fighting with Fell, their claws slashing at each other.
A huge, red dragon, once more from the center picture, glared down at Zack, who seemed frozen from shock.
Brandi was in bed, sweating in her sleep, pain evident by her expression.
The Child was gazing at the golden ball, which was glowing.
Juno was talking to a group of people Will had never seen.
Sarius was speaking with Larka, who seemed astonished.
Draken reached into a hat and pulled out a card.
Light emitted from Hope as she was kneeling over someone.
Fell grabbed Miles by his bandana and yanked him away from something.
Zack was speaking with Larka, who was staring at him avidly.
Mana was sitting beside Brandi, who still lay in bed.
Chasity was behind a man who was dueling against a woman, trying to sit up. She was injured severely. But Will could not see either duelist clearly…
Dark energy came out of a girl and entered Hope. But Will could not see who the girl was…
The large, golden beast emerged, the last of the Gods, while Larka stood in front of it, petrified.
Juno stared down at a boy who was shaking in fear.
Sarius and the Child were glowing…
Brandi was on the floor, crying hysterically while Larka tried to comfort her.
Hope, Rue, Max, and Will were together in an area of darkness.
Hope was standing in front of someone as darkness cloaked her…
A figure in shadows glared upon them, a being too mutated to be called human…
The officials were talking to the entire group.
Fell, Larka, and Sarius were walking away from them.
A boy was lying in the snow.
Hope was embracing Max… but was that them? They looked older…
A girl was lying in a hospital bed, unconscious.
A woman, one Will had never seen, emerged from a spring.
A girl with a silver cross was typing at a computer, her eyes narrowed.
Demon Rue was blasting someone with dark magic. But he looked older too… or was it just Rue who looked older, so Demon Rue looked older as well?
The older Hope was talking to another man… who it was, Will could not see.
Another boy was staggering, his arm bleeding.
A group of children were talking together. There were two girls and two boys.
The group of four was there again, this time with a woman accompanying them.
A man smirked, holding up a playing card that was an ace of spades.
A boy reached his hand up to a black glove that covered his arm and pulled it off.
A child gazed at a group of people in wonder, her eyes shining.
There were four more shadowy figures… no, there was another as well, one that seemed very powerful…
Zack was falling down a canyon.
One of the girls he had seen in the group of four was now shaking with rage... or was it? Why were their tears running down her cheeks then? Was it sorrow and rage?
The young girl stood in front of a graveyard, her eyes dry.
A girl sat on a swing, staring at the dusk. Something dripped from her hands… blood?
A man brought his huge sword down, cutting down his opponent.
There was an army of Duel Monsters, and behind them, seven figures that emitted great power…
Two males were battling each other, both extremely fast. A clink of golden rings came from one, while the other seemed unarmed.
A pale man with a cape brought up a familiar girl within his hands. He smirked, and then his teeth went to her neck. Another man watched, his eyes flashing with regret.
A girl was injected with something, yet nothing seemed to happen…
Another girl closed her green eyes, wincing, and then opened them again. One was now blue.
A menacing figure stood before six he had seen…
A man spoke to a female, one he recognized, before the man vanished in a white flash.
And then the orb, the one around Hope's neck, was glowing with light and darkness.
And a glowing cross appeared before him. Behind it, he thought he could see someone wearing a brown robe, carrying a staff.
"Do not forget what you have seen. For these events, and more, could change the fate of the world…"
And then the darkness was gone, leaving Will in the room.
Will stared at the stained glass window as he sat down, trying to let his heart calm down. When he finally felt ready, he left the room.
…
"Will! Are you alright? You look shaken," Draken commented.
"Yeah… it's fine, really," he assured. "I'm just a little confused." He looked around at his friends. Had he seen the future? Would all of those things occur for sure? Would he be forced to watch his friends suffer through all of those tortures again, but in real life? He let Neo emerge, still pondering.
"Um… may I go now?" Larka requested. "Will's right, it'll be easier to just get it over with."
"Go ahead."
Malon whined softly.
"It's only for a few minutes," Larka told him.
He whined again before vanishing. Then Larka entered.
…
Darkness was all around her. She looked around, but could see nothing.
Then she heard someone approaching, and turned to face him.
"Sarius!" she exclaimed. "What are you doing here?"
"Larka… you are here. Good." Sarius glanced around the area. "Nice place, isn't it?"
"Why did you come?"
"I wanted to discuss a few things with you, that's all." He looked over at her. "I do have quite an interest for you and your brother, after all."
"Why?"
"Stay alive and you'll find out later," he told her. "But be careful. Dark forces are at work, and they will want to dispose of you. You can be sure of it."
"What?"
"Just look out for yourself, and your friends," he said. "I can explain more later, when the time is right."
"How is this an ordeal?"
"What, you think I'm the ordeal? I just came to give you a heads up," Sarius shrugged. "But truth be told, you don't really need an ordeal. You are as ready as you can get to face what you must. However, there is one other thing you need to see. So I'll leave for now. Bye."
"Wait!" Larka called, but it was too late. He was already gone.
She looked around, wondering what else would come.
"Konnichiwa."
The Child had appeared right in front of her.
"Huh? Oh… um, hi?"
The Child nodded. "Ki o tskete… abunai kuru."
"I'm sorry, but I don't understand what you are saying," Larka said, confused.
"Gomen-nasai, Hikari," he replied, before holding up the golden ball, which began to glow.
"What?"
"Sumi-masen… machigae-mashta. Sayonara." Then he turned and walked away.
The darkness was gone, leaving Larka in the room.
What was that all about? Larka wondered. She looked over at the stained glass window. Why would Sarius and the Child be interested in my brother and me? Who are they, anyway? We hardly know anything about them…
…
Larka opened the door and closed it quietly, looking over at the others.
"Did it go well?" Hope asked.
"It wasn't bad at all," Larka said before letting Malon emerge again. The puppy immediately leapt into her arms, whimpering. He still didn't really like going into his Soul Card, or so it seemed.
"…I guess I will go now," Zack decided. "If that is alright?"
"It is fine."
Without further hesitation, Zack went in.
…
As usual, darkness was the only thing to greet Zack. He scanned the area, but saw nothing.
Then someone appeared in front of him. It was a woman who wore a long dress. Her hair went to about her waist. But it was impossible to tell what color her dress, hair, or eyes were, for she was pale and transparent. She was slightly glowing yellow though.
He was unable to speak for a few seconds.
"Zack? Do you recognize me?" the woman asked.
"…Crystal?"
She smiled slightly. "Yes. I am glad we can talk to each other at last, even if it cannot be for long."
"How are you here? And what do you mean, it cannot be for long?"
"When I died, I could not leave this world, knowing that you would want to die. Zack, the time will come when you will eventually die. You should not rush your death. Only a certain few are lucky enough to get a second chance at having a well-lived life. You were brought back to this world, giving you a second chance at this."
"But I have no reason to be here. I've only wanted to be able to see you… and our children… and to apologize…"
"Why? It was a mistake. In fact, Andrew is already in heaven, but he gave me a message before going," Crystal said.
"What?"
"He said that he was sorry. He says he acted without thinking, and that he should have been more loyal to his few friends than the military. Especially since he was drafted, and did not want to go in the first place. But he was worried for what would happen to Heather if he didn't follow his orders. In a way, you put his soul to rest. He also hopes that you can forgive him, but understands if you cannot."
He stared at her, shocked. "That's… what I said… back then…"
She laughed. "You two were so much alike that I am not surprised. I can still see some of the similarities at this moment. But the point is that he wants you to forgive him, and you want him to forgive you. So that means that there is nothing to worry about, right?"
"Even after all that has happened, you haven't changed," Zack commented.
"But you have. And I don't want you to dwell on the past. What has happened has happened; you cannot change it. So accept it and move on. I am sure that some of your other friends have already told you this?"
"You know?"
"Yes. I have been following your group for quite some time. I think one of your friends actually managed to hear me speak."
"Hope," he answered. "It must have been Hope."
"Yes, that's right… she has quite unusual talents. I'm sure traveling with her will be quite interesting," Crystal commented.
"What about you?"
She sighed. "I've managed to stay here for this long, but I can remain on Earth no longer. I must go to heaven."
Zack looked away. "…I see."
"Don't feel sad," Crystal smiled. "We will see each other again one day. Whenever you do die and come to heaven, I will be waiting, as will our children, Andrew, and Heather. Speaking of Heather, I talked to her before she went to heaven and explained the entire situation. She was ashamed for her actions, and hopes that you will forgive her as well."
"But I killed her!"
"She says it is her fault for not accepting the truth. So will you forgive her?"
"If she can forgive me," Zack nodded.
"She already has. She is actually grateful, since she can see Andrew again." Crystal looked up. "Hm… my time is nearly up. I will have to leave soon. I am sorry. But remember what I and your friends have told you, ok? Stay alive for us. We will have all of eternity to spend once you arrive in heaven, but you have a limited time on Earth. Alright?"
"…Very well," Zack sighed.
"Oh! I nearly forgot to mention this. Don't hesitate to fall in love with someone else."
Zack stared at her again. "What?"
She laughed. "I can sense it. You are beginning to fall in love with someone. You may not realize that yet, but there will come a time when you do. When it happens, don't be afraid to confess it. I would rather that you are happy more than anything, and I know you won't forget about me or our children."
"…"
"Well… as much as I hate to say it, I do have to leave now." She gazed at him sadly. "I wish you best of luck with your life. Don't keep all of your feelings pent up; you have friends that will help you deal with what you need to. So don't be afraid to express your emotions." She turned away. "Good-bye, until we meet again."
"…Yes. Good-bye…" Zack could think of nothing else to say besides that. He had so many things he wanted to tell her, yet could not bring himself to.
And then he was in the room. He too was forced to wait a few minutes to recover before leaving.
…
Everyone looked over at Zack as he stepped out of the room.
"Are you alright?" Larka asked.
"…I will be." Although Zack was sad for not being able to see his wife again, he felt as though he might finally have a chance to live on. Maybe.
"Then it's my turn," Draken announced. "I'll see you guys in a few minutes."
After Darche went back into his Soul Card, Draken opened the door.
…
Draken looked around the dark area, but found, like everyone else, nothing else at first.
Fascinating… not.
Then something caught his eye. It was a glow coming from his deck.
Upon closer examination, he found that it was three cards in his deck that were glowing. He took them out, and turned them over. They were his three Blue Eyes White Dragons.
Then three balls of energy separated themselves, one from each card. One was made of light, one of darkness, and the last one was red, the color of blood.
And then a flash of light obstructed Draken's view for a minute. When he could see again, he found himself staring at three Blue Eyes White Dragons.
The one that had formed from the light energy had, coincidentally, very light blue eyes. The dark energy one's eyes were a great deal darker. The blood red one looked the same as any other Blue Eyes.
"Greetings," said the light-eyed Blue Eyes. Its voice was rather gentle and quiet, not something you'd expect to hear from a dragon. "We have been waiting for you."
"W-what the heck is going on?" Draken exclaimed. "Who are you guys? I mean… I know you are Blue Eyes White Dragons… but what kind of… creatures are you? A monster from Teknisk Wereld? Something from my mind?"
"We are beings that were created for the sole purpose of speaking with you here," the dark-eyed one explained. Its voice was deeper than the first one's. "We will cease to exist when you leave this room. Well, our current forms will, anyway."
"Now I'm confused," Draken complained.
"You need not worry about that," assured the normal Blue Eyes. His voice was slightly deeper than the first Blue Eyes, but not as deep as the second one's. "Think of us as messengers. We need to inform you on some important things."
"Well, I'm listening."
"First, you must realize that each thing you and your friends have seen are important in their own way," the light-eyed one told him. "You may think some visions only apply to one person, and that may be true. But they will be vital to that one person, and every person in this group is significant."
"Which brings up the second point," the dark-eyed one continued. "Every person in your group is needed. You cannot lose even one for events of the future. For no matter how unimportant they seem, every one of you has a role to play. Some might not seem as essential as others, but in the end, they are. There will come times when your companions must separate for some time, but do not lose contact for too long. You must stick together."
"Third and final thing," the normal one said. "Each person is made up of certain elements, but the most important are light and darkness. Each person must have those two elements in balance, or they will eventually be consumed by the overruling element. Yes, this applies to both. Many view light as good and dark as evil… that view is not always accurate. So remember that light and darkness must be equal. For when light, darkness, and body are combined…"
Yet another flash of light filled the area. When Draken looked again, he found himself staring at a Blue Eyes Ultimate Dragon.
"Then the person takes form," the dragon finished. Its voice was a combination of all three Blue Eyes White Dragon's voices-not the most natural thing to hear.
"And you say this will be important later?" Draken asked.
"Indeed. Do not forget what we have told you. It may sound like general advice, but there is a deeper meaning than you might think." The dragon fell silent for a minute, before starting to speak again. "Now that we have delivered our message… we must leave. The rest is up to you, and your companions. We wish you the best of luck, young one."
And then Draken was left alone in the stone room.
Draken stared over at the window. "Ok… that was… enlightening." He shrugged. "I guess it'll make sense later…"
…
"There you are," Hope said as Draken came out. "Did it go ok?"
"Yep. No problems for me," Draken replied as he let Darche out of his Soul Card.
"That means I'm up," Miles stated. "I'm curious to know what I'll see."
Gen vanished as Miles stepped over to the door.
…
Miles eyed the darkness.
How anti-climatic… now what happens?
Then he heard a voice.
"Grasp your Soul Card."
"What the heck!" Miles yelped, jumping back. "Who's there?"
Nobody answered him this time.
"Gee, thanks for that small piece of wisdom," Miles muttered. He looked around the area again. "Well, I don't have much of a choice, do I? Might as well follow the instruction." He reached into his pocket and grasped the card without taking it out.
Almost at once, a vision formed in front of him. A boy in his teens was speaking to a man who looked to be in his early thirties. But what got Miles was that the boy was himself. But who was the man? He looked familiar… his light brown hair, his soft blue eyes, the red bandana around his neck…
Is this… a memory? One I've forgotten? Am I getting back my memory!
"Dad, why are you accepting this? Raven's just trying to cause trouble! You don't need to risk yourself! Please dad, reconsider!" Miles pleaded.
Raven? That's the name that other guy… Robin… mentioned! Wait… I called that man… dad? He's my father? Yes… he is! I remember now… at least, I remember that much…
"I know the danger in this," his father replied calmly. "But I am not doing this for my own sake. I'm doing it for his. He needs to learn that he can, and will, be able to lose games."
"But why?"
"Because if he thinks he is invincible, even over such a petty matter, then he will not make it very far in life. There are some things you just… cannot win." He fell silent.
Miles stared at him. "Do you mean… mother?"
"…Yes. Death is a vicious opponent… sometimes, you may win battles with him, but he will always manage to beat you, someday."
Miles turned away, trying to hide the tears he was shedding.
His father embraced him. "It will be fine… do not worry."
Then the scene changed. A crowd had gathered around two duelists. One was Miles' father. The other had black hair and green eyes. Miles was standing behind his father, watching in a cross between horror and fascination. Behind the other man was Robin.
So that's Raven… yeah. I recognize him now…
"It just can't be! I couldn't have… lost to… such weaklings…" Raven's protests were cut off when he started coughing up blood.
Miles' father had a rather large wound over his shoulder, but he was ignoring it. He also had several smaller wounds covering him. But Raven was in a much worse state, having two cuts over his stomach, like an X, along with other numerous injuries.
"Some do not have the power to fight a battle head to head," Miles' father told him. "So the weaker improvise, using skill to win. You did not plan your attack very well, just leaping in without thinking. No matter how frail one is, they have a chance of winning as long as they can outsmart their opponent. That is how my weaker, low attack monsters managed to defeat yours."
Raven glared at him. "This isn't over!"
"I believe it is. And we did have a deal, if I recall." For the first time in the vision, his kind eyes turned harsh. "You are to never to speak with my son again. Leave him be, for he needs time to recover from the wounds to his heart. They will scar, and never quite vanish, but they will be only made worse if he is being constantly injured in the same area."
"You are treading on thin ice!" Raven snarled. "I have agreed to not speak with him, and I won't! But I will not let this matter drop so easily!" Then he staggered off, Robin following.
A woman stepped forward and broke the silence that the crowd was in. "Alright, that's enough! The match is over! Quit staring at them as if they're animals in a zoo and move on!"
With several mutters and whispered conversations, the onlookers left. All that was left afterwards was his father, Miles himself, and the woman.
"Thanks Beth," his father said as he put his deck into his pocket.
"It isn't a problem." She looked over at where Raven had left nervously. "But please be careful, Luke. He could very well mean what he said."
"Alright, we will," he nodded.
Yeah… that was my father's name. Luke. And that woman… Beth… she was one of our old neighborhood friends. She… worked at a library. Yes, my memory is coming back! But I can't remember what happens after this… that's odd. I feel like I don't want to remember what happens. But… why would that be? I must know… even if I don't want to see it.
As that thought crossed his mind, the vision faded, and was replaced with another. Miles was kneeling on the floor, next to someone lying on it.
Miles stared in shock at who it was. His father was lying on the ground, a knife through his heart.
"N-no… it can't be…" Miles could not tear himself away from the gruesome scene.
Raven was above him, panting slightly. "That old fool… if he had not kept acting like he knew everything in the universe, maybe I would have spared him. But he's all talk… except for when he said he was weak. That was certainly true… heh…"
The Miles in the vision was crying in sorrow, but also… in rage. Miles could remember how he had felt then… his world had been torn apart by one teenager…
And he watched as his vision counterpart suddenly grabbed the knife, pulling it from his father's chest, and stabbed Raven through his own heart.
Raven tried to cry out, but choked on his own blood, and collapsed. Miles fell back, shaking. He could have stayed… it was just self defense, that was all, he wouldn't get in trouble for it… but there was no point without his father. None whatsoever.
He reached over and untied his father's bandana from around his neck, and pocketed it. He also grabbed his father's deck. He cared about him too much to leave those items. Taking one last look at Luke, he left.
He ran out the back door and through the yard. He didn't want anyone to see him, to question why he was out at this time of night.
It was when he reached the bakery that it happened. He heard someone coming, and turned to see who it was. To his horror, it was Robin.
Without a second thought, he ran into the bakery. The person who usually ran it, a man named Brad, was gone at the moment. Miles was grateful for that. He looked around the room, where there was a fire place. He looked around the room, and saw a smoke detector near the entrance to the kitchen.
"Good…" he muttered before grabbing a pair of tongs nearby the fire place and seizing a burning log. Then he tossed it over to the hall, underneath the smoke detector, and ran through the kitchen, out the back door.
He quickly hid behind a tree as he saw Brad walk past, going back to his bakery, and then ran for it. He didn't want to cause Brad any harm-he was a nice guy and all. But he had to have a distraction so that Robin and anyone else would not be worried about him. Hopefully, it would be put under control before it got too severe.
Then a huge explosion caused him to turn. The bakery-or what was left of it-was now completely engulfed in flames. But that wasn't the only one. The buildings next to it had been caught in the explosion, and the flames had spread. The entire town was going up in flames.
"No…" Miles whispered. "How… how did this happen...? What… have I done…?"
The real Miles stared into the flames. Now he was sure of it. He had killed everyone. Except for himself and Robin.
For Robin was charging out of the burning area, a steel sword glinting from the fire.
"YOU BASTARD! WHY! WHY DID YOU DO THIS!" He indicated to the fire. "WHY!"
"…I… I…" Miles couldn't bring himself to explain.
"MONSTER! YOU'LL BURN AS WELL… IN THE FLAMES OF HELL!"
The sword descended upon him. He tried to move out of the way, but he felt frozen. His neck exploded with pain, his scream of agony a terrible thing to hear.
Blood loss was effecting him, but he could still make out the dim outline of Robin, his green eyes showing sorrow and a mad desire for vengeance.
It filled his heart with a fear he had never felt before. He couldn't think. He was sure he would die.
But his body acted automatically. He leapt away blindly, barely avoiding the sword again, and fled. He felt dizzy, but he kept running… he couldn't stop, or he'd die…
Then he woke up. He was in a forest, a man sitting beside him. He wore a white cloak, hiding his features.
"So you've survived. I wasn't sure if you would make it. Well, the wound was shallow, so it just looks worse than it is. You were quite lucky."
Miles sat up slowly. "I…"
"Were you from the village that burned down?"
"Y-yes… it was my fault… all my fault…" he sobbed. "I… I killed everyone… he's right… I'm a monster… I don't deserve to live…"
The man did not interrupt him. When Miles fell silent, he finally spoke again.
"You say that you want to die?"
"…Y-yes…"
"There is another thing you could do," the man offered. "It would be a solution that would bring you peace of mind… if you want to call it that. Are you interested?"
I have nothing to lose… that's what I thought then…
"…Alright… what do I have to do?"
"Just relax… it will be over shortly…" Then the man brought his palm up to Miles' forehead. And his golden cross began to glow…
And then… I lost it. My memory. Gone. He stole it from me. And told me that I was to work with them…
The vision faded, leaving him in the room. He collapsed to his knees, shaking.
"No…" he said out loud. "No… no… I didn't do it… I couldn't have… it's impossible… why… it just… I… no… I... didn't want anyone to die! I didn't do it… it's not my fault… no… I'm… not to blame… it's… just an illusion… but I remember it! The flames… the blood… the pain… no… too much pain… NO!"
…
Draken looked over at the door. "Miles is taking longer than any of us so far. Do you think he's ok?"
Before any of them could answer, the door opened, and Miles staggered out, collapsing to the floor. The door silently shut behind him.
"Miles! What's wrong?" Larka asked, running over to him. The others were startled to see him crying uncontrollably.
"I didn't do it… it wasn't me… no… no… please… no… say it was all a lie… tell me it was all a lie…!"
Larka knelt down beside him. "Miles? We can't help you if you don't tell me what's wrong. Please, tell us."
Miles didn't seem to hear her. She reached into his pocket and pulled out his Soul Card. Gen emerged instantly.
"What is going on?" he asked, looking over at his companion. "Miles!" He also knelt down. "Miles, what's going on? Are you hurt?"
"…Gen… tell me… tell me I didn't do it! Please tell me it wasn't my fault!" he cried, burying his head into his Soul Monster's shoulder to hide his tears.
"Relax. It'll be fine…" Gen tried to comfort him.
Brandi shook her head. "It's odd. The things I saw certainly weren't what I'd call pleasant, but none of us have come out looking like this."
"That room can show anything," the man said. "It may be your greatest desire, or your darkest fear."
Hope glanced at it nervously. "And I'm the one who has to go in now… since I'm the last one down here."
"You'll be fine," Gaston assured before vanishing.
She stepped up to the door, and cautiously pulled it open.
…
At first, it was dark, like usual. But then Hope saw something ahead. She walked over to it.
It was a wooden cross. And Max was bound to it. Numerous wounds were all over him, still bleeding. Much of his body and clothes were already stained red. He was unconscious, but his expression remained: one of pain.
Hope stopped, staring in horror at him. "What… what is this?"
"Your friend has suffered much pain."
A girl appeared next to the cross, someone Hope recognized instantly.
"Alene!"
"Yes… I have come to tell you of what you must do." Alene looked over at Max. "He has faced many ordeals, and the wounds do not fade easily. When they do scar over, another cut causes them to reopen. He is constantly losing his blood, or life force, or will to go on. What binds him is life itself. He cannot hope to escape pain… not while he is here."
"Isn't there a way to help him?" Hope asked.
"Yes… and in your heart, you know how." Alene sighed. "This has been a short conversation, but I do not have much time out of heaven. I must go back. But I wanted to tell you something else."
"…?"
"Hope, you think of Satan as your enemy, do you not?"
"Of course," she said.
"What if you did not? What if you actually cared about him?"
"…What?" Hope asked in confusion.
"I am sorry, but I cannot stay. Good luck Hope." Then she vanished.
Hope looked back over at Max. Yes… and in your heart, you know how. Alene was right. She did know how.
She walked over to Max, and put her hand over his heart. Light began to come out of her hand, spreading over Max. His wounds stopped bleeding, and began to close. Scars remained, but he was healing.
Then another flash of light blinded her. And she was left in the stone room.
Hope stared at the cross. "Alene… what were you trying to tell me?"
…
"Did you get through it ok?" Larka asked.
"Yes." Hope called forth Gaston. "How are you doing, Miles?"
He looked over at her, but did not answer.
"He's stopped crying, at least," Draken informed her. "But he refuses to speak to us."
"Oh…"
Hope looked over at Ruecian. "What about him?"
"He may go through without an ordeal," the man said.
Ruecian walked in, and then came out of the other door almost instantly.
The man looked over at them. "Well done. You have all passed. Now you may proceed through the door. Be warned-your opponent will be there." He stepped in front of the cross, to be below them. "The rest is up to you. I must leave."
"Wait!" Hope exclaimed. "After what we've had to go through… can't you at least tell us who you are?"
The man smiled slightly. "Very well.
Two beautiful, white wings came out of his back. Everyone was too startled to say anything.
"I am Gabriel. Go with God." Then he vanished.
To be continued…