Hi! Just so you know, I busted my brains trying to come up with this chapter. -.- My creative spurt is gone! -sobs- Hopefully it'll come back. Also, school's started again so I won't have much time at all to write. It's depressing. -sighs sadly- Oh well. Now, to the wonderful reviewers!

-Serpent's-Embrace -Yup, Zernogh was killed off too quick. And you'll see why in this chapter. ; )

-Cheetah Goddess -.....Lloyd! -starts laughing hysterically-

-norestar-angel -Thanks! I tried to review your story, but my stupid computer kept on messing it up...I'll have to go back and try later. : )

-Jellybob 15 -Thanks! I'm glad you liked the chapter, I was a little nervous about it.

-roses in bloom -Thanks! I'm glad everyone seemed to like the whole Yami/Tea scene. I was kinda nervous because I've never kissed anyone or had a boyfriend, so I don't know what it's like. I had to kinda make it up from things I've read and seen on TV. -.-

-ari-aly -Thanks! : )

-eveeee90 -Thanks, I'm glad you like it! : )

-Fushicho Hime -Yes, I was getting kind of annoyed with myself for putting it off so long. Stupid me and my whole tension' thing...-.- Yes, Zernogh died...Or did he? BWAHAHA!

-Sylvia Viridian -Confusing? Nah, that was just me being stupid. I've heard my friend talk about that before, and didn't remember it until I'd posted the chapter. -.- Yup, I'm an idiot. And proud of it too!! : )

-Tinyflyer02 -Thanks yourself! : ) Sorry bout the long update...-mumbles-...stupid school...

Thank you all soooooooooooooooooooooooo much, and again I'm sorry about the long update. REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY REALLY
sorry!! Okay, I'll stop rambling so you can read the story. Enjoy!

The demon stood still in the numerous shadows of the cavern, watching as the one known as the Crimson Darkness killed' an illusion of himself. He smirked at Yami's triumphant face. Did the fool really believe that he, Zernogh, could die so easily? He had an urge to laugh out loud. Finally, Yami threw down the sword and walked out of the chamber. How considerate of him to leave my weapon behind, Zernogh thought to himself. He walked over to his sword and picked it up, cleaning the blade on the hem of his cloak. That done, he sheathed his weapon and turned to the illusion of himself. He closed his eyes and released his hold on the illusion, immediately feeling a boost in his energy level. Making and containing an illusion as complex as this had drained much of his energy with every passing second. But the information gathered had been worth every bit of the fatigue he had endured. With a satisfied smirk, Zernogh closed his eyes and disappeared in a burst of red-orange flame.

The source of all evil paced impatiently in his chamber located in the Spire, anxiously awaiting his servant's return. If the news was promising, there might be hope yet. In a sudden bout of frustration, the source threw a sword hanging on the wall across the room, effortlessly shattering the metal. Dammit, why was it taking so long?! Why had Yami not yet transformed from the Crimson Darkness to the True Immortal? To supposedly ease his stress, the source took a heavy ebony mace from the wall like it weighed nothing and threw it against the wall, shattering it like the sword. Damn that Pegasus, why had he made the riddle in Serpenetria? Stupid show-off, served him right to get killed by his own creation. This consoling thought seemed to calm the source, as he stopped his monotonous pacing and simply stood there. His patience was rewarded as a burst of red-orange flame appeared in front of him, along with his servant Zernogh.

As soon as Zernogh entered his master's chambers, he immediately fell to his knees, if not for respect, then to spare his own sanity. He had once made the mistake of looking at his master directly and would not do so again. His master was such a complex, baffling creature to the naked eye that the mere sight of him had nearly caused Zernogh to go mad. Zernogh involuntarily shuddered at the memory. He had been a fool to lay eyes on a divine entity without himself being of the godly nature.

Report, Zernogh, the source said in his maddeningly complex voice; a voice that sounded of everything, of nothing. A voice that matched the source's appearance.

Zernogh shuddered and tried desperately to block his ears from the diverse sounds reverberating around the chamber, as well as through his mind. Master, I bring fortunate news. The Crimson Darkness does indeed love the angel, and vice versa. He is well on his way to becoming the True Immortal.This is good, Zernogh. You have done well. I trust the new illusion power worked in your favor?Yes, m'lord, as well as in yours. Yami believes me dead, which will prompt him to believe that the power of the Thirteen is failing.Ah, but that is a matter we must discuss, Zernogh. In a way, the Thirteen is failing. There are some among the Thirteen who are questioning my motives, Zernogh, and that mutiny cannot be allowed.I understand, Master. Tell me the names of those who betray you and I will take care of them.Your loyalty to me is great, Zernogh, if not surprising. You would betray and murder your own brethren for your master?Yes, Master. I would sacrifice my own life, my own soul, if you asked. I would do anything for your vision, for the greater evil. the shining white figure replied after a brief pause, nodding slowly, you would. I can see it...Now, the ones among the Thirteen that would betray me are Warnnin, Pemna, Archilt, Uverdon, Derrdra, Kealgoi, Blordai, and Faerdran. Kealgoi will not be a problem, seeing how his little demon-turned mortal was too powerful for him to control.Yes, master, and neither will Warnnin, Pemna, Uverdon, or Derrdra. I overheard a conversation amongst them, talking about leaving the Thirteen to greater aspirations'. I took care of them on my own. I hope my independence can be excused.It can and it is, Zernogh. I am pleased. Now, after the offenders are dealt with, you are to recruit eight new members to the Thirteen; ones who can replace the others, equal in power, but more loyal.I understand, Master.Good. You are dismissed to your duties. And Zernogh, the source called out as his servant rose, don't forget that you can be replaced just as easy.

Zernogh nodded solemnly, not daring to look at his master. He bowed, and then disappeared in red-orange flame.

Archilt sharpened his monstrous claymore as he went over the steps of his plan. Everything seemed to be working out fine, all operations were running smoothly. However, Archilt was apprehensive. Zernogh had sworn loyalty to him and their cause fervorently, but that demon was as devious and treacherous as they come. Oh well. I'll just get rid of him in case. Archilt ceased sharpening the now razor-sharp blade and grinned, Poor Zernogh. You have no idea what's going on.What a coincidence! Because you obviously don't either! A voice rang out from behind
Archilt. Before the demon could react, a sword was thrust deep into his back, the blazing fire of poison spreading through his body. With a choking sound, Archilt fell to the floor, his face contorted in pain.

Zernogh simply pulled his blade out of Archilt, disgust written on his face. Demon blood is so incredibly messy, With a grimace, Zernogh wiped the sword on Archilt's corpse. That's one down.

Blordai started as he heard shouting followed by a sickening thud coming from Archilt's chambers. With haste, he quickly passed through the walls. Being a specter had its advantages. As he slipped into Archilt's chambers, he was met with a surprising sight. Zernogh, their ally, pulling the sword that had taken Archilt's life from his body. he whispered with his usual lack of emotion, you are a traitor. How disappointing.

Zernogh snorted derisively, With a flick of his hands, he sent strong magical energy towards Blordai. The magic formed a suffocating mass of darkness around Blordai of which not even the specter could escape. Within moments, Blordai was no more.

Well, that was convenient, said Zernogh with a smirk. Now all that's left is to kill Faerdran.

Faerdran reached in vain for a book on the top shelf. With an irritated sigh, he forced his wings out and flew up to the book that had eluded him. If Archilt's suspicions about Zernogh were correct, then they needed to kill that demon before things got out of hand. Faerdran flipped through the book hastily. Now where was that spell that could trap a demon inside a crystal...

Looking for this?

The angel whirled around, only to be faced with a smirking Zernogh. He held in his hand a crumpled up page torn out from the spellbook Faerdran was currently holding. Zernogh smirked again and threw the crumpled up paper behind him. You know, I never did trust you. You are, after all, an angel. You had your usefullness, Faerdran, I'll admit it, but that usefullness ends here. Zernogh grinned maliciously, Any last words?Actually, yes, Faerdran smirked and began chanting in a strong voice, Aduro, demon. Aduro a ignis. Cum is verbum, tui malum ego volo aboleo. [1]

Zernogh screamed as flame began licking at his body, searing his demonic flesh.

Faerdran increased the volume of his chant and began repeating it over and over until Zernogh was nothing more than a pile of ash. He sighed in relief. I finally killed him.Did you? said a mocking voice behind him. Before Faerdran had a chance to react, he felt a sharp pain through his stomach. Numbing coldness spread throughout him as his body surrendered to death. Or did you just kill his illusion? Zernogh laughed at the angel's corpse. That's my third kill today! I'm feeling rather pleased with myself! He bent down and picked up the spellbook. He began flipping through the pages, searching for a spell. Now, let's see, is this...? Aha! Here we are! With a triumphant cry, Zerngoh ripped out the page. He scanned through the list of objects and ingredients needed. Hmm......skull, angel blood...essence of wight? Where...? After several moments of thinking, Zernogh snapped his fingers. I'm pretty sure Uverdon kept some in his stores, I can just use that! Zernogh went down the list again, making sure he knew where to find all the ingredients. After a few minutes, he nodded his head decisively and made a portal of red-orange flame.

Ego iam arcesso phasma phasmatis a Warnnin, Pemna, Archilt, Uverdon, Derrdra, Kealgoi, Blordai, Faerdran hinc profundum a barathrum! Absque sensus, at a fidelis! Permitto inferi exorior prout undead! Exaudio meus clamo, creatura a deus! [2] Came a chanting from inside a dimly-lit chamber. A demonic altar stood in the center, lighted by two red candles and a strange, ghostly aura that surrounded it. A gray-robed figure stood behind the altar, raising its hands up in plea as the chant increased in volume. Ego iam arcesso phasma phasmatis a Warnnin, Pemna, Archilt, Uverdon, Derrdra, Kealgoi, Blordai, Faerdran hinc profundum a barathrum! Absque sensus, at a fidelis! Permitto inferi exorior prout undead! Exaudio meus clamo, creatura a deus!

Suddenly, black swirling light rose from the floor and engulfed the room. It remained for no more than a few seconds, leaving behind 12 beings of varying races. There were four demons, one of which was horribly mutated, a minotaur, a specter, an angel, and a lizard creature that looked like a lizard, but stood on two feet and was the size of a human. To most they would seem to be regular creatures, no matter how strange physically, but a look into their eyes changed that completely. Their eyes were gray, lifeless, completely void of emotion. That, of course, being a enormous understatement. They were the undead, beings that lived only on instinct and orders.

Zernogh grinned and said quietly, Welcome back.

The source of all evil was surprised as a large portal of fire opened before him. Surely Zernogh couldn't be done yet? However, Zernogh and 12 others stepped out of it, all of which fell to their knees instantly. He was even more surprised when he was able to recognize all of them as the original members of the Thirteen. He thundered What is the meaning of this?!M'lord, I believe I have found the solution to the problem of the Thirteen. After all, what creature is more loyal than one that is undead? Zernogh said confidently. Inside, however he was deathly afraid of his master's wrath.

There was a long pause before the source replied, I see, Zernogh. They will serve me. You have done well.Thank you, master, Zernogh said, greatly relieved, What is our next step?Nothing for now, except programming these undead. Let Yami and his precious angel fall into a false sense of security. It is like you said, Zernogh. They believe the Thirteen is failing, the Cult of Xenoroc is failing. Let them hold onto their petty hopes for a while longer. After all, it is still not time, but will soon be.

Zernogh nodded solemnly, hiding a malicious grin. Stupid Yami. I'll get my revenge sooner than I thought.

Yami and Tea walked down the moonlit street, hands lightly clasped together. Yami, for one, felt like a large weight had been lifted off his soulders. The one person he felt completely connected to, the one person he would willingly die for, felt the same about him. It was so relieving, so consoling that he couldn't help but release a small sigh of content.

What's on your mind? A soft, angelic voice came from beside him.

He gave her a thoughtful look before saying, How is it that you were cast out from heaven?My father was forcing me to marry someone I didn't know, Tea blushed in embarrassment and laughed slightly, Now that I think about it, it sounds pretty stupid, compared to all we've been through in the past few days.Hardly. Marrying someone you can trust is important, Tea. I should know, Yami said seriously. My aunt was set up with a random guy just because he was a vampire. My grandmother wanted to keep the blood line clean'. Anyway, the guy turned out to be an abusive psychopath who drove my aunt to suicide, Yami shook his head sadly, I still remember the funeral. My uncle didn't shed a tear. was all Tea found herself saying, sobered by the sad story. The two continued to walk in comfortable silence, content enough to just be in each other's company.

Suddenly, Yami stiffened and began to walk slower. Get behind me, Tea.

Tea obeyed and soon heard what Yami's sharper hearing had first. There was an odd gasping noise up ahead. The source of the noise soon came into view. The man seemed to be homeless. That was no shock these days. But what was a shock was the pair of angel wings on his back. He called out in a rustic voice challengingly, What're yu lookin at..?

Yami relaxed as he saw that the angel appeared to be unarmed. He stepped forward, intending to help the poor person.

The man blanched as Yami came into full view and staggered back. He stammered, Y-you're...you're The Creation!

Confused like Yami, Tea stepped from behind him and asked the angel, What are you talking about?

The angel gasped with wide eyes as Tea stepped out. When she began walking towards him, he staggered back some more and yelled in a shaky voice, Y-you s-stay away from me, you d-devil's spawn!I don't understand-- Tea began, but was cut off as the angel screamed in a panicked voice, Stay away from me! In a desperate attempt to defend himself, the angel reached behind him and threw a metal pole blindly. Before she could react, the metal pole hit Tea and went through her stomach. The angel then ran away without a backward glance. Tea sunk to the floor, tears flowing down her face at the pain. I wish this pain would stop, she thought desperately. I wish it would just go away. Tea heard a clatter and felt the pain subside. She sighed in relief and looked to Yami, Thanks. I didn't know you could heal.

Yami was staring wide eyed at Tea and replied in a shaky voice, I can't Tea. Your body did that by itself.What?! B-but I-I couldn't have! I don't know how! Tea said, just as shocked as Yami.

Look at your stomach.

Tea did so and found no trace of the wound. Not even a scratch. W-what does this mean?I don't know, Tea. I really don't, Yami looked around and shook his head, But we aren't going to find any answers here. Let's go home.

Tea nodded and got to her feet. What was going on?

ARGH! Can't...write...more...Writer's block...taking over.....Dang you, Mr. Writer's block! Why can't you just leave!!!!

-Because you promised me cake-

I GAVE YOU THE FREAKIN CAKE!! NOW LEAVE BEFORE MY READERS KILL ME!

-No-

GAH!!!....Well everybody, here he is--the famed Mr. Writer's block. And he won't leave! Even after I offered him gold!

-That gold' was a rusted nickel-

SO! It's gold to me!!!! Anyways...

[1] It's Latin and roughly means: Burn, demon. Burn in hell. With these words, your evil I will abolish.' I'm not sure if that's the exact translation, but it's close enough for me. ; )

[2] More Latin. A rough translation is: I now summon the spirits of Warnnin, Pemna, Archilt, Uverdon, Derrdra, Kealgoi, Blordai, Faerdran from the depths of the underworld! Without feeling, but with loyalty! Let the dead rise as undead! Hear my cry, a servant of the gods!' Again, I'm not 100 percent sure that this is the exact translation, but it's pretty dang close.

Well, there you go. Sorry about the long update, but as I mentioned before, I had no clue what to write -.- How'd you like it? Was it okay? Disgustingly boring? So downright awful that you ran away screaming? Tell me! Flame it for all I care, just review!

P.S. Free cookie to anyone who can guess who the source of all evil is! ; ) I gave you a couple hints in this chapter, even though they were pretty subtle.