AN: I apologize for the long updating period --' school is hell… anyway here it is! The second to last chapter of Never Sleep Never Die!
I also apologize for any typos you find )
xxxxx
Tala motioned a number of his troops forward so that they lined the walls of the main compound building. His posture was relaxed, his hands hanging at his side, yet his eyes were watching, careful not to miss a single detail.
You know I'm here Kingston, Tala taunted in his mind, his eyes moving to where one of the many cameras was surveying the large amount of Biovolt troops. Will you just let us enter?
"Tala, is it just me or is this way too easy?" Ian asked, coming to a stop on Tala's left side. "It doesn't seem right that we should just be able to walk in here."
"He knows we're here," Tala answered mildly, "He wants us to come. He has a plan."
"So we're walking into a trap?" Ian said, his face rather annoyed. "That's just great."
Tala laughed, sending his friend a smirky smile. "Not much of a trap if we know about it Ian," Tala replied rather cheerfully.
Ian looked at his leader like he was crazy. "What the hell are you on? You're abnormally cheerful tonight."
The red head shrugged. "I can't help it. When victory is so close, I can't help but be cheerful." His eyes shifted to his other side. "Can't you tell Bryan's just as excited?"
The man in question, who had just arrived on Tala's other side, snorted, playing with the very large weapon in his arms, "Whatever you say." He grumbled, checking the cartridge of the gun.
Tala laughed again, throwing a rueful grin at his best friend. Bryan looked anxious, though only to his eyes. But then, Tala could always tell what Bryan was thinking as he was thinking it. It wasn't so much a gift as it was years of careful observation. Bryan was trained as well as he was in the art of masking your emotions, but Tala had known him so long that there was nothing the burly, pale haired eighteen year old could hide from him.
"Well then," Tala rolled his shoulder, his eyes flashing. "Shall we gentlemen?"
Bryan grunted, a dark smirk on his face, while Ian merely rolled his eyes. "I don't see why you need a gun Bryan."
Bryan merely gave his shorter companion a particularly degrading look before replying shortly, "Falborg is young. He'll be no match for that bastard's fully developed bit beasts."
"And a gun will be?" Ian muttered, shaking his head. Bryan just wanted to shoot someone. Years of pent up rage.
Tala interrupted the little squabble by stepping forward confidently. With a sweep of his hand, an icy blue blast exploded out of the amulet of the same color around his neck and hit the looming set of doors that marked the entrance of the large compound building. Ice spread over the metal and glass until it completely covered the doors. The blast stopped and Tala motioned a couple of his soldiers forward. The soldiers approached the doors slightly hesitantly, as if expecting them to burst open at any moment.
Tala sighed irritably, glaring at the common soldiers. "Just smash it. It's not going to bite you." He snapped.
The soldiers jumped, immediately doing what they were told and bringing the butt of their guns down on the middle of the frozen doors. They shattered instantly, sending shards hailing down on the two soldiers, cutting them badly with ice and metal alike.
"Get them medical treatment." Tala ground out, thoroughly annoyed at his soldier's stupidity. "The rest of you go in, line the hallways, capture anyone in your path, if they won't come willingly, kill them." His eyes narrowed. "Except any of the Angels, or Miss Tomei. Let them go, they'll find me eventually."
The legion of soldiers saluted before entering the building, guns raised, and flashlights on. Tala, Bryan and Ian entered at a more leisurely pace. Tala's posture was relaxed as his eyes wandered around curiously. "I wonder where they could be," he murmured out loud, his eyes tracing the various doorways they passed.
"So you're what everyone fears?" a low voice drawled from the darkness ahead. "I can't say I see why."
Tala drew to a halt, Bryan and Ian just behind him. His turquoise eyes reflected no light, giving them a menacing sort of quality that would have terrified most people. "And who do we owe the pleasure?" He asked, his voice dripping with fake sincerity and politeness.
The three could almost hear the smirk in the darkness as footsteps echoed through the virtually empty hallways. Slowly a figure materialized from the darkness, his wild hair contrasting his short stature.
Eyes the same color as Tala's appeared, as a young man of Asian decent stepped from the shadows, a half snarl-half smirk on his face. "My name is Ozuma Hizashi, and you are obviously Tala Valkov, and those behind you are you lackeys?"
Bryan growled, stepping forward, but was stopped when Tala held up a hand. "Oh yes," Tala said, his expression becoming vicious, "I remember you. You were with the Angels at one point weren't you? Or so the photographs show anyway. One of Kingston's lackeys I suppose?"
Ozuma's expression hardened. "Associate, not lackey. Brooklyn does not have lackeys."
"Is that right?" Tala replied, sounding surprised. "It's funny, because I could swear that you, Miss Tomei and Kehl were all lackeys, puppets on Brooklyn Kingston's string."
"Shut up. You know nothing." Ozuma spat, raising one arm so that the underside of his wrist faced the three Biovolt leaders. A glowing orange amulet decorated his wrist and with a one-word command his bit beast appeared in a flash. "Flash Leopard!"
The beast that appeared was so big that it took up most of the narrow hallway and almost completely blocked Tala's view of the BEGA 'associate'. It was a large purple cat, which had sprouts of flames in place of locks of hair on its neck, paws and tail. Green jewels adorned its shoulders. It snarled at Tala, Bryan and Ian, though none of them moved.
"Damn," Ian grumbled under his breath. "I bet they all have something huge like this."
Tala threw Ian an amused glance. He was visibly unmoved; his smirk was still in place, no trace of fear in his eyes or stature. "What an interesting little kitty," he murmured mockingly.
Flash Leopard snarled, his claws flexing on the concrete floor. Behind him Ozuma was sneering. "You're brave for one who is about to die."
In a flash three more bit beasts appeared, all significantly smaller than the large cat before them. Wolborg was the largest, and though he was still only a pup, he was still larger than any wolf in existence, reaching Tala's breastbone when he was seated. Falborg was too large now to sit on Bryan's shoulder, so instead he flew up to the rafters where he perched, his green eyes watching the large cat's every move. Wyborg was the smallest, as snakes generally were, but was still fairly large, being about the size of a full-grown boa constrictor. They all hissed, growled and screeched at Ozuma and Flash Leopard.
Though I do not believe we can defeat this one master, I will die protecting you. Wolborg's voice echoed through Tala's head.
"That won't be necessary Wolborg," Tala replied out loud, taking a step back. Truth be told, he had no idea how to get around the large cat. He hadn't counted on meeting any bit beasts until they had reached Brooklyn, and then he had an entirely different plan. Kill the man before the bit beast could be shown, and if he did manage to get Zeus out, bit beasts had weaknesses. He just had to exploit them.
His eyes shifted to the junction leading right that lay right where the large cat stood crouching, ready to attack. If they could just get to that hallway, they could escape with relatively no difficulty. Tala fingered the smoke bombs, hand grenades and other weapons that sat on his belt.
Ozuma laughed mockingly as his bit beast relayed what had been said. "Oh it will be. Flash Leopard is going to destroy you and your pathetic half-grown bit beasts."
"I don't think so," a new voice echoed through the darkness, wrapping around the four men and bit beasts like a siren's voice in a rocky cove "Dark and jaded things live in the shadows Ozuma, and I'm one of them." There was a pause before a hard command. "Cryptic Tomb!"
A stillness settled over every living thing present, and it felt as if the very warmth and breath had been stolen from their bodies. The shadows seemed to deepen, creeping along the wall until they had engulfed all of them in their shady embrace. Then all at once the stillness moved, and the loud screeching of what appeared to be spirits sounded throughout the metal hallway. Dark indigo glowing specters rushed at the large cat, phasing through it as if it were nothing but a cloud. Flash Leopard screeched and snarled, beginning to thrash about as the spirits attacked him from the inside. Something else attacked then, appearing out of the blackness of the side hallway, it's claws extended.
The wolf-phoenix was even larger than the cat, which made it difficult for the two beasts to battle in the confines of the hallway. The new arrival was purple and black, with large phoenix like black wings. Its claws were that of a bird, but the rest of it was wolf.
It attacked Flash Leopard with a vengeance, clawing, biting and letting small blasts of indigo energy out through its mouth, which burned the other bit beast. In turn Flash Leopard sent funnels of fire that circled the both to attack the large wolf.
"Jade…" Tala murmured, snapping his eyes towards the pitch-black side hallway where he knew she was. What are you doing?
And then it was over. Flash Leopard let out one final snarl-scream before falling to the floor. The spirits cackled, circling around the severely injured bit beast before disappearing all together. Ozuma's eyes were wide as he darted forward, falling to his knees beside his fallen bit beast.
"Flash Leopard," he whispered, running a hand over the cat's bloody neck.
Flash Leopard raised his head a bit, his eyes dim in the shadows. I'm sorry master, I failed you.
"No…we were betrayed." Ozuma replied softly. "You are no match for Dazzler…you never were. Brooklyn put too much faith in his little puppet bitch." His eyes moved upwards until they were staring into the side hallway. "Why don't you come out Jade?" He laughed mirthlessly, hollowly. "I told him that women were weak, that they couldn't be trusted. I knew that you'd fuck the Valkov bastard; women are pathetic like that. Role over like dogs at nothing more than a hint of affection."
"I role over for no one," Jade retorted, her voice soft but firm. "Least of all to Brooklyn Kingston." She appeared then, her hair styled normally, wearing casual clothes.
Tala, Bryan and Ian remained silent as they watched the show down between the former allies. Tala's hand, however, was rested on his hand gun, which sat ever faithful on his belt.
"But you did roll over. All set up isn't this Jade? Well it doesn't matter anyway. Brooklyn will kill you, when he kills these bastards and takes over what Biovolt started. You were just a tool anyway."
Jade's eyes narrowed, her fists clenching. Dazzler return. She commanded silently, and in an instant the bit beast was gone. "Explain." She gritted.
Ozuma sneered, spitting off to the side. "He has a kid you know? And a fiancé. He used sex to use you, to get what he wanted. Just an example of how pathetic women are, how they will believe anything."
That was it for Tala. Snatching his gun out of its holster he shot the man in the chest. Ozuma wheezed, clutching at his chest before slumping over on top of his bit beast, which let out a mewling cry. As the bond between bit beast and master was broken, whatever was holding the animal to life was shattered and it followed its master.
Tala snorted, shoving the weapon back in its place. He moved forward, glancing behind him. "Search him. He might have something useful." He commanded before moving off to the side, where Jade stood frozen, her head bowed, her eyes obscured by her bangs.
As he reached her, he stopped, his eyes sweeping over her. He couldn't say that he wasn't surprised to see her, because he was. He hadn't expected her to so openly side with him. His hands moved up her arms, settling on her upper arms just below her shoulders.
"I knew…somewhere in my heart I knew. I knew that he was using me anyway…I've known for a long time." Her voice was soft, and he had to strain to hear it. "It shouldn't hurt…but it does."
Tala was silent for a moment, searching for something to say. His hands squeezed her arms gently. "You trusted him," he said quietly, pulling her a bit closer to him. "You trusted him and he betrayed you. Do not feel guilty for betraying him. Someone like him does not deserve loyalty. Would it comfort you to know that Mystel has joined me? He will replace Spencer."
Jade whimpered a bit before throwing herself at Tala, her arms circled his chest and her face buried into his neck. "You shouldn't have come," she said, not crying, but her voice slightly shaky. "He's resurrected Black Dranzer, he means to use her to kill you. He means to use Hiwatari's hate to kill you."
"I know," Tala replied calmly, his hands shifting from her arms to circle her shoulders. Deftly he removed the clips that held her buns in place, causing her hair to spill over her shoulders. "Kehl told me all I needed to know. Tell me, have you seen Kingston since you have been here?" His fingers toyed with the ends of her hair.
"No, he has refused to see me. Always giving the excuse that he was busy, especially after the Angels arrive. It all makes sense now of course." She said.
Tala made a sound in the back of his throat. "Have you seen the Angels?"
She nodded. "They arrived last night, all of them, including the baby. She has black Dranzer."
"Why?" Tala questioned after a brief period of silence. "Why would you save me?" He had to admit that the question had plagued him since she appeared. Sure he knew that she was attracted to him, but he didn't think she'd go to the lengths she just had. She had just practically told Brooklyn Kingston to go screw himself.
"Because I had to." She answered honestly, not moving from her place against his chest. "Because I love you."
The red headed male didn't move, his fingers ceased toying with her hair, and his breath caught in his chest, surprised. So you've achieved your goal after all Valkov, he thought to himself, struggling not to smirk. His hand moved up from her back to the top of her head, stroking it with seeming affection. "You'll make a fine queen someday I think," he stated smiling into her hair.
She backed up a bit, her eyes wide as they met his. However, before she could speak, he cut her off, pressing his lips to hers and kissing her with such fervor that she could not doubt his 'feelings' for her.
"Tala, we have to move on," Ian's voice echoed through the hallway, breaking the connection between Tala and Jade.
Tala pulled away, giving her a smile and running a finger down the side of her upturned face. "Be careful hm?"
She smiled a bit, almost smirking. "You too. He's waiting for you in the large lab room so that there is enough room for battling. The Angels will mostly be with him. Some will try to stop you before you enter."
"Where will you be?"
Her smile became wicked then. "Working behind the scenes to bring him down. I'll try to keep Garland and some of the others with bit beasts occupied."
"Good," Tala smirked, stroking her face one more time before turning away. "Stay away from Kingston please." Was the last thing he said before he, Ian and Bryan disappeared down the hallway, continuing in the way they were going before Ozuma interrupted them.
Jade watched them go. They would win; she knew it.
xxxxxxx
The corridors were bare and easy to move through after the confrontation with Hizashi. It was as if the BEGA head understood his loss was inevitable and had stopped fighting. Of course Tala knew he'd be stupid to believe that, and that the clever Brooklyn Kingston was not only ready and waiting for them, but that he had some kind of plan. A plan Tala had ever intention of being ready for.
He knew the whole thing had been a set up, an elaborate trap laid down by Kingston to do away with both Biovolt and the Angels. Too bad Tala himself was a master manipulator and knew how to keep his people loyal, a talent Kingston apparently was lacking.
Though Jade had told him where Kingston was hiding, they had somehow managed to get lost in the miles of halls and corridors that all looked the same. Tala growled, coming to a stop in front of one of the many cameras, slamming his fist against the wall.
"What's the matter Valkov? Grow tired of your frivolous search?"
The disembodied voice grated on Tala's nerves. His teeth ground together and his eyes narrowed. "Kingston! Are you so frightened that you have to hide behind pathetic tricks and weaklings?"
It was silent for a few moments as they waited. Tala almost thought his rather sad, immature insult had actually shut the other genius up. No such luck.
"No," the voice said finally, a slow drawl. "I have nothing to fear from you or your men. Come if you will. Take the corridor on your left three hundred feet, turn right then travel five hundred feet and turn right again. I am in the first room on the right. I will be waiting."
Tala wasted no time in following the directions. With his fists clenched tightly at his side he stalked like a predator pursuing his prey. It took them very little time at their speed to reach what they figured was the right room. They knew they had reached the correct door by the two young men that stood outside, armed and looking determined.
Tala sighed, his lips curling upwards. He came to a stop a few feet away from them and propped one hand up on his narrow hip, one eyebrow arching. "Don't tell me you two are going to try to stop me?"
Lee and Michael stiffened, their expressions hardening, their grips on their large guns tightening. "We can't exactly let you past." Michael stated sarcastically, his eyes rolling.
"Oh I would have to disagree with that," Tala retorted, stepping forward with no fear. "You let me into that room without a fuss and I might think about letting you live."
In response the two men leveled the gun barrels at the tall red head, their fingers firmly on the trigger. Tala's lips pursed in annoyance, his eyes flashing dangerously. "Get out of the way fools or die." He growled, losing his patience with the situation.
Wyborg has been released… his master requests that you and Falborg's master move on while he takes care of the rebels. Wolborg's voice sounded in his head. Tala inclined his head a bit, letting Ian know that he understood the plan. Out of the corner of his eye he saw Bryan do the same.
Michael and Lee cause the demonstration but didn't know what it was about. However, before they could figure out what was going on they were knocked off their feet by a speedy six foot cobra. Tala smirked, walking by them to the door, making sure that he kicked the guns that they had dropped away from their hands.
"Ian has graciously agreed to play with you in my place," Tala sneered with a malicious edge to his voice. "Have fun."
Ignoring the looks of terror and protest, Tala punched the entry consol that was stationed on the right side of the door. The door slid open soundlessly and he, followed closely by Bryan, entered the dark room.
"Welcome Valkov," came Brooklyn's faux inviting voice. "How nice to finally meet you."
Tala snorted, his narrowed turquoise eyes sweeping over the eerily dark room looking for the owner of the voice. His eyes settled on the darkest corner where not one, but several figures sat, stood or leaned, their eyes fixed with hatred on him. Tala's lips tilted, his chin rising a bit. "I see you're not alone Kingston, care to introduce me to your… friends?" He goaded, knowing full well who the other people were. "Oh, but they aren't your friends are they? Tools would be a more accurate word for it."
Brooklyn's eyebrow quirked, a smile playing on his mouth. "And you would know all about that, wouldn't you Valkov? Anyway, I believe you are already acquainted with my guests."
As his eyes adjusted to the light, Tala recognized who stood around Brooklyn, who was seated in the middle of the group. Robert Jagan stood off to his left, just behind, with Spencer beside him. Kai rounded out the group, standing a distance to the right of Brooklyn leaning against a computer consol. His eyes were the darkest of the group… the hatred burned the brightest in those auburn eyes, hatred for both Tala and Bryan.
"Indeed, hello Kai, how nice to see you again." Tala said conversationally, a half-smirk on his face. He then turned his eyes back to Brooklyn. "So, tell me Kingston, where is your secret weapon? Where is Black Dranzer, I'd like to get that unpleasant business out of the way."
He almost cackled at the complete look of surprise that over took Brooklyn's face. The other man sat up straighter, his eyes wide and jaw slack. Tala's expression darkened noticeably, his teeth flashing wickedly. "Surprised I know? Tsk, you should know better than that Kingston," he said viciously. "Apparently you don't inspire the greatest confidence in your subordinates. Using them as disposable tools always fails."
Brooklyn brought himself to his feet, his face a hard mask of fury. "Who." He stated softly, but firmly.
Tala did laugh at that, sneering at Brooklyn. "Kehl sends you his regards. You didn't honestly think that I didn't know that you had rats in my Abbey." He laughed again. "Fool. You underestimated me and it will cost you."
In an instant Brooklyn's face was wiped clean, replaced by a small benign smile and blank eyes. "Oh I don't know about that," he replied mildly. "Not only are you outnumbered, but over powered." With a wave of his hand and a flash of indigo the large, winged half-horse half panther appeared, its red eyes glowing brightly. "If you know of Black Dranzer then I'm sure you know who this is."
"Zeus," Tala hissed, not bothering to stop his own bit beast from appearing, followed by Falborg. He did, however, keep the adolescent wolf at his side. His mind whirled, turning over what to do.
"Hiding behind a bit beast, how typical of you Hiwatari." Tala sneered, buying himself time. He had to figure out a way to get rid of the bit beast, and that was looking more and more difficult as the seconds past. Wolborg… is Zeus one of those deities you spoke of earlier?
No master. He is the same rank as I, but he is full grown… wait…she is coming! The wolf even looked excited as he turned his head up to his master, his eyes bright.
Who is coming Wolborg?
The mother… the Great Mother is coming… and I fear she is most displeased.
"How do you know?" Tala replied out loud, looking down at his bit beast.
She has told me.
Kai frowned, sharing a worried look Robert and Spencer. Though Brooklyn didn't seem to notice, they did, and apparently Tala did as well. The hair on the back of their neck stood and chills ran through them. Something was coming… something was about to happen.
Brooklyn tilted his head. "What is he telling you Valkov?"
This brought Tala's attention back to the confident orange haired man. Tala's expression grew wicked. "He's telling me of your end." He replied, stepping back away from the door, motioning a confused Bryan with him.
As soon as he moved out of the way the door exploded with a force rivaling that of dynamite, complete with fire and scrap metal. The three angels and Brooklyn threw their arms over their heads while Zeus stepped protectively in front of his master.
Tala merely grinned, squinting a bit at the light that surrounded the new arrival. He fell to one knee, pulling Bryan down with him. "Hello my Lady."
Burning red eyes shone into the dark, narrowing as she stepped into the room fully. The light that surrounded her lit up the large room like a beacon of black, red, orange and yellow fire.
"Prepare yourselves Unworthy Ones for the time of judgment has come."
xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Liika fidgeted anxiously, checking on Nadya for what seemed like the hundredth time. She knew that they were in the compound, that Biovolt soldiers now traversed the halls of the expansive BEGA structure, and that was what had her on edge. That and she was extremely pissed about being locked in a room so that she could not get into trouble.
That of course had been her husband's stipulation while he, Robert and Spencer had gone to join Brooklyn for the final show down. It killed her not knowing what was going on, but as Kai put it, someone had to stay with Nadya and protect her. He also reminded her of her promise to continue living if something happened to him, if only for Nadya's sake.
The only consolation that she had was that Mariah and Anza were also locked up with her and that Max, Enrique and Oliver had volunteered to stay behind with them and keep them company. Lee and Michael had gone with the other three and Kenny was in some lab somewhere on the compound helping secure the defense.
"Liika, Nadya's fine, and pacing isn't going to help anything." Max soothed, grasping her by the shoulder's gently and leading her to one of the chairs that was situated in the plushly furnished room. Mariah sat in the chair beside her, and gave her a brave smile when she sat down. She was attempting to keep herself busy by reading, but she seemed like she was every bit as anxious as Liika was. Anza lay on a couch across the room, head cradled in Enrique's lap, while said man dozed himself. Oliver was writing something, what, she couldn't tell, but it was probably a journal or something. Or maybe a story. It didn't really matter. Max settled himself down in the floor between Liika's chair and Nadya's playpen where she was sleeping peacefully. He sighed heavily.
"This is just a bit difficult to take," Oliver stated in his soft voice. "Not knowing anything…not being able to do anything but sit here and wait."
"You're telling me," Liika replied, propping her chin up on her palm. "It's not fair that they get to actively fight and we have to sit around and wait for it all to be over."
"They are only doing what they think is best for us," Mariah spoke up, putting her book down with a sigh. "Though truth be told, I would rather be out there then locked in here. I'd feel safer out there facing it head on then in here hiding."
Liika opened her mouth to agree when suddenly everything froze. Mariah, Oliver, Max, Enrique and Anza stopped moving, stopped breathing, stopped everything. It was as if time itself had stopped.
Young one.
The commanding voice of Black Dranzer echoed through the utter silence that was starting to panic Liika. Liika sighed, suddenly realizing who exactly was responsible for the time freeze. She should have known the black phoenix was capable of stopping time itself.
I created time and I can stop it as well.
"Why did you?" Liika asked, not bothering to think to the powerful being as no one could hear here anyway.
The time has come for the first shift in the chromatic span of fate. You will serve me now as my child is too young to contain me.
"I don't understand…"
And nor do I expect you to. Follow my orders as one under my protection should.
Liika scowled. "And what is it that you want me to do?"
Act as my vessel. This foolish quarreling between mortals must stop. I shall end it.
"You want to possess me? No way!"
A feeling of foreboding descended over her and Liika shuddered. You will do it willingly, or I will simply take over you, the choice is yours. If you chose to fight me it will be painful, if you give yourself to me then it will be painless.
Child, a second voice echoed, softer, slightly higher. Please, for the sake of the world you must. If she enters your body and your soul fights her you could die and that must not happen.
Liika recognized the voice of Akala, the voice she had heard only once before. She knew that she had no choice in the matter, however, she couldn't fight the feeling that no matter what Black Dranzer said about ending the fight, that the outcome would not be in their interests.
Everything is in the interest of fate young one. What comes to be is and was destined to come to be. As my awakening was part of the thread of time, as is my intervention. Whatever happens must happen or the balance of my creations will fail and everything will be destroyed. But know this, the day will come when you will see your enemies vanquished, this I promise you.
The blue haired young woman sighed. Something bad was going to happen, she just knew it. "Fine, do what you want."
Good. Now step to my child's crib and take my resting place from her neck and put it over yours. Do not fear or fight what will happen.
Following the instructions, Liika walked over to Nadya's crib. Time started again and the other occupants in the room looked in confusion at Liika who to them, seemed to move instantaneously.
"Liika, what are you doing?" Mariah asked, standing.
Liika glanced over her shoulder as she unclipped the amulet from her baby's neck. She didn't answer her friend, instead slipped the dusky indigo jewel around her neck. "I'm sorry…" she whispered, closing her eyes as she felt the fire surge through her veins.
A burning black flame engulfed Liika as soon as the amulet fell against her chest. The flames raced over limbs and over her head, causing her hair to sway as if she were facing a breeze. Her breathing slowed as the flames receded to a dull burning, their black tendrils dancing around her as a thin yellow glow coated Liika's pale skin.
Max, Oliver, Mariah and Enrique – who had only been dozing anyway – gasped, their eyes widening as Liika's eyes opened and they did not see the familiar turquoise iris staring back at them. Instead, her entire eyes were red, writhing in searing hot flames as if to reflect her inner soul.
"Do not fear mortal young ones," Liika spoke in a voice not her own. It was deeper, huskier and instilled a fear and respect that Liika's own voice couldn't. They had the unusual urge to bow before their burning friend. "My protected one is safe, residing deep within this body. The time has come for judgment and I must ask you to stay here. They will come for you shortly. Protect my child until I return."
"Wh-who are you?" Max stuttered, terror coursing through his blood.
Liika-but not Liika tilted her head, her red eyes blinking slowly. "I am the Mother of All and Nothing. Some call me the Great Mother. I created this world and the time has come for my chosen to reclaim it."
"Bl-black Dranzer!" Mariah gasped, her hand covering her mouth.
"Yes, that has been one of my names. Remember what I said young ones. Remain here and do not defy my orders. You shall live if you do this." With that Black Dranzer-Liika turned on her heel and with a wave of her hand opened the door and disappeared.
Mariah sunk to her knees, her hands clasped over her racing heart. "Why do I have the feeling that everything is about to come crashing down?"
Enrique flinched, running a hand over Anza's sleeping head. "Probably because it's about to."
xxxxxxxxx
"Quick but effective I suppose."
Ian stiffened at the strange and power filled voice. He whirled around only to come face to face with a black fire encased, red eyed Liika who looked creepy as hell. "What the fuck…?" He hissed, taking a step back.
Black Dranzer-Liika's eyes shifted from the short teenager to the six foot cobra bowing beside him. She smiled a touch. "Hello my son."
Wyborg raised himself upwards to look up at the mother of all, his eyes gleaming. Hello mother!
Ian was beyond confused by that point, but decided that discretion was the better part of valor and kept his mouth shut. Somehow he figured pissing this being off –he was sure it wasn't actually Liika – wasn't such a good idea.
"An apt thought young one." The girl said, red eyes running over the blue faces of the two recently deceased Angels. "A pity it was their place to die." She said, her tone somewhat sympathetic.
"Who-who are you?" Ian questioned somewhat nervously. His bit beast was obviously fond of whoever it was that was inhabiting the blue haired Angel's body, even going so far as calling her mother. Odd.
"As I have told the others that crossed my path, I am the Mother of All and Nothing. All will be answered in time young one. For now I must ask you to step aside so that I can settle the matter of fate."
Ian stared at her, blinking rapidly. "Uh…sure…" he said, stepping aside and letting her pass.
She walked the ten some feet to the door that Tala had entered and stopped in front of it. Then, in a freaky exorcist kind of way (or at least that's how Ian saw it) she turned her head without turning her body and looked at him. "Two halls down and three to the left lay a room. In it you will find my child and the ones you seek. Take my son and go, but harm not any of them. No more will die today."
"Ok." Ian was only too happy to comply if it meant getting the hell away from the possessed Liika.
However, just as he was turning he jumped in surprise as the door she had been standing in front of exploded in a mass of black flame and metal shards. He stared incredulously as she stepped into the room, his eyes wide with fear.
"Prepare yourselves Unworthy Ones for the time of judgment has come."
He shivered and raced away. That was one experience he could have lived without.
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The occupants of the control room stared at the possessed Liika, unsure what to make of the situation or of the new arrival.
"Liika?" Kai called hesitantly, stepping forward out of the shadows, his eyes worried.
Black Dranzer-Liika's head snapped in his direction, her eyes narrowing to burning slivers. "The keeper of your heart lay sleeping deep within this body." She said, her voice low and husky. "I am the Mother of All and Nothing." Her eyes shifted to Zeus and Brooklyn, they blazed with anger.
Zeus did not move, merely arching a brow as his master stepped up to his side. "You are Black Dranzer," Brooklyn said calmly, looking neither threatened nor fearful of the powerful being. "Interesting."
"The one called Brooklyn James Kingston," she said, an elegant sneer to her words. "The one who gave me life. You overestimate your own power insolent one."
"Do I?" Brooklyn responded, still looking unaffected.
Black Dranzer-Liika chuckled derisively, her smile more of a smirk. "You are a fool, as most mortals are, male and female alike. You think because you control money and power that you are untouchable, but all things must bow to fate Brooklyn James Kingston, this you will learn in time."
"I'm sure," Brooklyn answered demurely, turning back on her. "Why don't you just tell us why you are here. I'm sure it must be important for you to have possessed your bonded mistress' mother."
The black flame around her surged, indicating her extreme displeasure at being dismissed. At this Tala almost grinned. It would be over soon. No one insulted the mother of creation and got away with it.
"Mistress?" The dark being laughed. It was a dismal sound, one that reminded those that heard it of the grim reaper's cackle. "I have no mistress for I am the mistress of all. Zeus should know this, yet still he does not bow."
Brooklyn looked over his shoulder, an eyebrow raised. "And why should he? Zeus is the most powerful of all living bit beasts; he need not bow before anyone."
"Impudent fool!" Black Dranzer-Liika cried, the flames soaring even higher. "You know nothing, yet you gloat about knowing everything. Zeus is nothing compared to those who have not yet been awaken, to some who have already been woken. He is nothing to me or my consort."
Brooklyn's eyes narrowed. "Zeus."
The large bit beast inclined his head before launching itself at the small young woman, claws raised in attack. Kai shouted jumping forward, only to caught by Spencer who shook his head rapidly.
Black Dranzer-Liika remained as she was, her expression becoming stony. It was only when the massive beast was within two feet of reaching her that she raised her hand. Her eyes burned brighter and the black flame that surrounded her surged forward, massing in her outstretched hand and shooting forward towards the bit beast.
Zeus bellowed mightily as the flame pierced the jewels on his chest and forehead. The jewels cracked instantly then shattered, causing cries of pain to be emitted from both Zeus and Brooklyn. Within seconds it was all over.
The great beast seemed to freeze for a moment then disappeared before their very eyes, disintegrating into thin air. Black Dranzer-Liika lowered her hand, her face set into a solemn expression of a queen. "Such is the fate of all those who think they are above their creator." She said, eyes centered on Brooklyn.
Brooklyn fell to his knees, his hands clutching his head as if he were in great pain. He shook, like a child, and his eyes remained riveted on the ground in front of him.
"Thus is the judgment of fate. The one who has betrayed shall be paid back in full. Zeus paid for your crime, live knowing this betrayer."
She turned from Brooklyn then to face Tala and Bryan who were still on one knee. "Rise and face judgment." She commanded them.
They followed her orders even while their bit beasts remained bowed. The Mother turned her eyes first two Bryan whose eyes remained fixed on the ground. She stepped forward. "Bryan Alexander Kyznetsov," she said sternly, stepping two steps towards them. "I am not the girl you so desperately want. Look at me."
Bryan, though he didn't want to, raised his eyes to meet the burning red ones that possessed Liika. The Mother was silent, assessing, as she stared into Bryan's eyes, reading his very soul.
"You are the father of my chosen one," She said after awhile. "In you I put my trust if you swear your life to me. Do you swear?"
"Yes," Bryan answered instantly. "I swear."
"Very well, in you I place the protection of my child and my vessel." Then turning she finally addressed Tala. "And what of you Tala Adrik Valkov. What is it that you seek so desperately?"
Tala met her eyes unflinchingly. "The Mother is all knowing and wise, surely she knows what this humble mortal desires."
Black Dranzer-Liika snorted, her mouth tilting in one corner. "You are a charming one Tala Adrik Valkov. Yes, I know what it is you desire. You seek the world, as so many mortals do, and the end to the strife that has plagued you in your life."
"Yes, that is what I seek."
"Why?"
Tala lowered his head, his eyes becoming shaded. "Without a strong central power this world will fall." He answered honestly.
"Indeed. For one so young you are insightful. Democracy is a passing fancy of mortals, and is, like the other forms of government it fights so hard against, an impossible dream. There can be no will of the people, for if there is, mortals will be divided forever." She spoke sagely. "I knew this at creation. Fate has chosen you for a reason Tala Adrik Valkov. The time will come when you will once again bow to the wishes of fate, but that time yet far in the future."
Though he did not understand completely what she said he nodded, bowing his head to her in respect, sensing that she was finished with his 'judgment'. She was already turning to the angels.
"You're judgment has already been passed," she said flatly, staring at all three in turn. "Troubled times lay in the future for you, but know that everything happens for a reason. Your reasons for living shall remain intact even if you shall not. The Angels die tonight."
The three Angels scowled in confusion, annoyed and disturbed by the seemingly riddles spoken by the inhuman being. They looked at each other, shaking their heads, unsure of what was going on.
Tala, meanwhile, realized for the first time that Brooklyn had disappeared. He wondered how the man could have slipped from the room without being noticed.
The Mother's eyes closed for a moment before reopening. "The first shift has ended. I am fate. Those who have escaped have been allowed to. Brooklyn James Kingston still has a part to play yet in the stream of time. You're place has been assured." With one final look at Tala her eyes closed again and the flames disappeared. Liika crumpled, falling to the floor in a heap.
Kai went to race forward but found himself frozen, literally, in place, his feet encased in ice. Robert and Spencer found themselves in similar positions, and in Spencer's case the amulet around his neck had been snatched away by the talons of the large falcon while they were distracted.
Thus it was Bryan who stepped to Liika, gathering her in his arms and cradling her against his chest. His gloved hands sifted through her bangs and smoothed over her cheek, a sense of possessiveness washing over him. It was finally over.
"How incredibly unfortunate for you," Tala drawled, pulling his hand gun from its place at his belt and pointing it at the three frozen Angels. "It seems that fate was on my side all along."
Kai spat at Tala, snarling. "If Kingston hadn't have been so stupid and gave Black Dranzer life you would have lost."
Tala paused as if to think the matter over, his gloved fingers stroking his chin. "If, if, if," he taunted after a moment, grinning evilly at his long time rival and worst enemy. "It's always about the ifs. Perhaps you are right, but from what I understand, what has happened was destined to happen and thus I was destined to win all along. Don't you believe in destiny Hiwatari?"
"Go to hell."
The red head clucked his tongue, waving his finger at Kai like a naughty child. "I don't think so," he said just before winding up and punching Kai in the face, knocking him free from the ice and unconscious. "I believe that's where you're going." He turned his eyes to Spencer, who, along with Robert, were struggling against their frozen bonds. "And you…You who I trusted so well… I'm really rather impressed with you. It took me so long to figure out who was our rat and when I did, I underestimated you yet again. I didn't realize you would run so fast. Tell me Spencer, where is your brat?"
Spencer stiffened, terror flashing through his eyes for an instant before it was gone again. He said nothing, merely pressing his lips into a thin line.
Tala smirked. "Surprised that I found out? Well, really you have my beautiful future queen to thank for that. She discovered a security video of a pregnant Maya – or should I call her Zero? – and you. It doesn't matter if you tell me, I'll find the child eventually, if I so care to. Originally I was going to turn it into a weapon for me, but I'll just have to think on it won't I?" He turned away, not even giving Robert a glance. "Oh!" He stopped, raising a finger and half turning back to Spencer. "One last thing, tell me, was it you who started this whole thing by setting the little wench free oh so many months ago, drugging Bryan in the process?"
Spencer's eyes narrowed with hostility. "It was I."
"Hm," Tala hummed, turning again. "Good to know. Ah, excellent they've arrived."
Just as he spoke soldiers poured in the room, guns raised and pointed at the three rebels. Tala recalled Wolborg, as Bryan did with Falborg and walked to the door. "Bind them heavily, chains are preferable when you get them. Five guards a piece, no less. I'm not losing them again." He commanded loudly before departing from the room.
Robert sighed mournfully, putting up no resistance as the soldiers broke the ice at his feet and dragged his arms behind his back, binding them tightly. He hoped Mariah was ok, and the rest of the angels, though he had his doubts for Michael and Lee.
He was beginning to understand the riddled words of Black Dranzer. Troubled times had indeed started for them.