Disclaimer: A War Monger written chapter.

A/N: Dattebayo!

Act I Scene IV

(Setting: Main hall of the New Order Palace)

A sense of relief shot through War Monger's body. At least there was now sustainable proof that DarkFire had not committed an act of treachery, but an act similar to heroism. Bloody? Yes. And he would be punished for that. But treason? Never. The court still needed to be sure of DarkFire's story, however, so no one moved until Bastion spoke.

"Aegis, I thank you for your time. Please return to your seat."

DarkFire and Aegis exchanged glances, their combined looks almost forming a 'Thank You', though nothing was said.

"DarkFire. It would seem that you have done the New Order a service here today. You have potentially saved our kingdom, our comrades, and our friends. You showed bravery against three enemies, halting treachery in the process."

As much as DarkFire enjoyed expecting the worst in a situation, even he had to be feeling good about Bastion's words. However War Monger did not share DarkFire's enthusiasm for what Bastion was about to say. Only three people on the court remained unmoved by Bastion's words: Berit, Ni, and War Monger.

"However, killing a fellow New Order member, thusly denying him a trial and proper
justice, cannot go unpunished."

War Monger could only hope that Bastion was not about to say what he inevitably knew he would.

"As a leader, it was your job to prevent treason and protect the New Order. More importantly, however, it was your job to act in a proper manner and lead your comrades by example. You showed a complete lack of restraint in your actions. This cannot happen on the battlefield, where precision and strategy are an important part of victory. I do not feel that you can handle this leadership position any longer. As a punishment, despite your exceptional service record and skill, you shall be stripped of your rank as Captain of the Black Guard."

War Monger tried to stay as stoic as he always is, but even he noticed the look on DarkFire's face. Almost as if he was stabbed in the chest. A face completely void of happiness, like he had just lost everything that he had in his life. But he hid it stoically and nodded. Bastion continued.

"I am sorry, DarkFire. You shall remain in service under Winnebago, the new Captain of the Black Guard."

Bastion paused for a few seconds to contemplate.

"And as for you Ryujin."

Ryujin had not moved an inch since the paper was handed to Bastion. He knew his fate was secured.

"Do you admit to allying with the enemy, spying on the Order, and to planning an attack that could destroy this Army?"

Ryujin looked at Bastion for what seemed to be an eternity. The fire in his eyes was still there, but War Monger sensed a different kind of passion. This was a fire of hatred, not of blood-thirst. Ryujin suddenly seemed to hate Bastion, his Army, and everything that he stood for. Standing between DarkFire and Bastion, he spoke.

"Yes, I admit it. And I stand here willing to do it again!"

At this point, Ryujin made a move for his sword as he lunged at Bastion. The court stood in absolute shock, unable to act. Suddenly, as Ryujin's infamous sword was inches from Bastion's heart, a flash came across the hall. As attention turned to the front of the court, everyone noticed the blank stare on Ryujin's face, the sword impaled in his side, and War Monger's hand on the scabbard. Removing the sword from the treacherous fiend, he allowed his body and sword to drop to the floor in front of Bastion. War Monger walked back to his position in the trial.

Everyone stared at the Shadow Guardsman, amazed at how he appeared to not move at all in attacking Ryujin. The only difference between the way he stood before the attack and now was the look on his face. A countenance of satisfaction, almost as if Ryujin's death had fulfilled him.

As if that scene wasn't enough of a distraction, a series of explosions was heard along the West Wall. As Bastion rose to take action, the Main hall was rocked by another explosion. Smoke and debris filled the room, and created a thick haze throughout. As the scene cleared, everyone noticed one thing: Ryujin's body, War Monger, Ni, and DarkFire were gone.