Part 13.1: Entered Wounds

As soon as the group reached Arias, they saw Cyrus catching up to them. He rejoined the gang as they walked along side the wagon with its precious cargo and wounded passengers. "Cyrus, are you okay?" Fayt asked.

"Just fine," he said before he felt a sharp pain on his right side. "Never better..."

"I think it's time you took it easy," Nel suggested. "That battle took a lot out of you. After all, it was never thought possible that anyone could defeat Albel Nox."

"Well, I got to admit, that fight was up the shizzle shizzay, know what I'm sayin'? I can't believe I defeated the best of Airyglyph: Albel Nox. Master Diogo would be proud..." he said with his hat brim turned back.

"Master Diogo?" Cliff asked.

"Yes, back in... Greeton," Cyrus said in quotes with his hands, "I had a sensei named Master Diogo who taught me the art of self-defense. If you ask me, he's tight, the best instructor on the West Coast. Without him, I wouldn't have been able to defeat Albel or even make it this far."

"He must be proud to have a student like you," Fayt said. "It would be great if we could meet him when this is over."

"Yeah it would," Cyrus sighed.

"Something wrong?" Cliff asked.

"I hate to say it, but I don't think that would be possible, you know."

"Why?"

"Someone had... injured him... badly." Cyrus looked down, ignoring the pain he felt in his side.

"Oh, sorry."

"Ah, don't be, homes. It's cool," he said with optimism. Unfortunately, it wasn't cool. Cyrus had a flashback of what happened and remembered the last words he ever heard from his master the night before. He remembered how his teacher sacrificed himself as he was mortally wounded by Lystara Catalysta's beam. After listening to his dying teacher's words, Cyrus swore to stop Lystara's horrendous plans, one way or another. The flashback ended as Cyrus the sharp pain in his chest.

"Cyrus...?" Nel said seeing the black clothed young man holding his chest.

Cyrus felt something on his chest. It was hard and as he felt its design, he remembered what it was. He gave a small smirk. "It's okay, I forgot I still had this." Cyrus pulled out his chain. It was a gold chain with a gold plate that looked like a sword in a circle hanging from it.

"What is that thing, Cyrus," Roger asked in amazement.

"Where I come from, this is bling bling. Only the best of the best get some shine like this."

"Where did you get it?"

"I'll tell you this: it was from a real expensive jeweler that would pay the highest price. Luckily, he knew my old man, and owed him a favor. He also heard about me and my... ability to kick some serious ass."

"I see," Fayt said. "So did he give it to you out of intimidation?"

"Naw, that's not how it works. See, he said that if I could defeat him in a fight, then he would gladly give to me at a seventy percent discount. He was the best there was in that part of Northgate."

"So what happened?" Cliff asked.

"The dude tried to use some of that Kung Fu- Tai Chi mix on me, but I won the battle in the hour with my own techniques."

"Which are...?"

"Heh... I was taught by the best so it was a whole number of different forms. From Shoalin to Kick Boxing to Ninjitsu to Zuijiuquan."

"What's that?" Roger asked.

"The art of the Eight Drunken Gods. Better known as Drunkard's Boxing."

"Drunkard's Boxing?" Fayt asked.

"An ancient style of martial arts that is centuries old. The main object of the style is to use a drunken like form while you fight."

"What?" Cliff said.

"I'll tell you about that later." In a few minutes, the group arrived the Arias where Tynave and Farleen were taken to the mansion to get healed. Cyrus was treated for his wounds and became well known as the young swordsman who defeated Albel Nox thanks to Roger's big mouth.

After Tynave and Farleen were resting in their beds, it was time to leave. "I'm sorry, Clair," Nel said apologetically. "Please take care of Tynave and Farleen."

Clair looked at her two sleeping subordinates/comrades. "Of course…don't worry about them. Are you going back to Aquios?" Clair asked.

"Yes; somehow, information about the top secret new runological weapon that we developed, the Thunder Arrow, was leaked to Airyglyph. I must report to Her Majesty as soon as possible. They're not fools… They must be planning something."

"As for that leak, one of my subordinates has gone missing. He disappeared right after you came back. There is a good chance he was passing information on to Airyglyph… This is truly unfortunate."

"I see…"

"Nel, let's go," Fayt said.

"Right," Nel responded.

"See ya later, Clair," Cyrus said.

"May the grace of Apris be with you," Clair said.

The group of five had left the rebuilding village and hiked north through the Palmira Plains wilderness, swam through the public masses of Peterny, raced through the Irisa Fields and arrived at the Sacred City of Aquios. As they walked on the city bridge, Fayt saw two young women near the left side. It seemed that one of them collapsed while the other was trying to care for her. "Are you okay?" Fayt asked in a concerned tone.

"Yes… But we'd better get her to a doctor immediately," the woman advised. She turned her head around and everyone, except Nel, were surprised to see her familiar face.

"Well, if it isn't Mirage," Cliff said in a casual way.

"Mirage?" Fayt said.

"Long time, no see," Cyrus said.

"Cliff, Fayt, Cyrus," Mirage said in a calm voice. "Reunited at last."

"What have ya been up to?" Cliff asked.

"I've been tracking you down," Mirage said. "It was easy enough, with all the stories you left in your wake. I just arrived here—only to see this girl collapse in front of my eyes. We need to get her to a doctor, quick."

"Is it that bad?"

"I'm afraid so."

Fayt looked down as he noticed something familiar in a basket. "Flowers..." he looked at the face of the unconscious girl and was surprised to death as he called out "Ameena?"

"What?" Cliff said in shock.

"You can't be serious!" Cyrus said in astonishment.

"What is she doing here?" Nel said.

"How should I know?" Fayt said. "We gotta get her help!"

"Take her to the inn and I'll go summon the doctor."

"Please hurry!" As Nel rushed in town for help, the group rushed Ameena to the inn. After a few minutes, Ameena was resting in a bed as a runologist began treating her.

"She's stable at the moment, but her condition is still serious," the runologist said. "For now, just make sure she gets plenty of rest."

Fayt bowed respectfully to the physician and the doctor bowed back before she left. As soon as she was gone, Fayt kicked at the ground. "Damn, why'd she have to go and pull a thing like this?" Fayt said.

"Hey, keep it cool," Cliff said as he walked over to the disgruntled young man. "You'll wake her up."

"But...!"

"I said relax. Do you think you beating up the walls will somehow help her get better?" Fayt groaned, but even though he was still upset, the blue-haired swordsman quickly regained his composure.

"The disease is in her lungs," Mirage said, sitting in a chair next to Ameena as she gave her prognosis. "If the Eagle were operational, I think we could heal her."

"Are you sure, Mirage?" Fayt asked.

"It may be a small ship, but it's medical facilities are better than anything on this rock," Cliff commented.

"Sounds like good news," Cyrus replied. "Though, it also sounded as though you said 'if.'"

"That's exactly what I said," Mirage said. "Unfortunately, the impact destroyed most of the equipment. And, the Eagle's been heavily guarded ever since you two were taken away.
The door's locked, so the soldiers can't get in, but unless we deal with them—neither can we."

"Leave it to me!" Roger said. "I could take those guys on, no problem."

"It's cool that you have the attitude, Rog," Cyrus said. "But I'm afraid those chumps have three things on you." Cyrus held up his hands and began counting on his fingers. "Height, numbers and armor."

"That's the thing, isn't it," Cliff said. "If we started raising a ruckus in the middle of their royal city, you can bet the Dragon Brigade'll be on us in no time. And I don't think that Albel guy'll take too kindly to us, either."

"Yeah, and I have first hand experience with his capabilities. With the slash to prove it."

"But Ameena… She's running out of time!" Fayt yelped.

"I know. But what can we do?" Cliff said.

"I'm sorry," Nel said as she entered the room. She walked over to the group to tell them the news. "We're running out of time ourselves. Her Majesty has summoned you three."

"Is something wrong?" Cliff asked.

"You'll hear all the details inside the castle. It looks like Airyglyph's invasion has begun. Their troops are already approaching Arias. Not only that, we have information that indicates this time all three of Airyglyph's brigades are taking part in the battle…"

"Oh man."

"I think they are going to try and wipe us out before we can complete the Thunder Arrow. Duke Vox is commanding them."

"So they're trying to end it all in a single blow?" Fayt asked.

"Hate to say it, but with that firepower, looks like it's game over for Aquaria!" Cyrus said.

"It looks like that," Nel said. "At any rate, Dion will head to Arias with every completed weapon at our disposal. I don't know how much he'll be able to accomplish."

"Dion...?" a faint voice said. The five turned around to the bed and saw a weak Ameena trying to get up from her bed.

"Ameena, you have to stay in bed!" Fayt said as he hurried to the worn out girl to gently lower her down.

"I... Fayt...?"

"Don't worry about that. Why did you push yourself so hard?"

"Because…my friend—an old man I know told me I could find him here, in Aquios."

"He's here?"

"Yes… The man said he works in the royal research facility…"

"You did say that your friend is an engineer…but are you really sure he's in the lab?"

"I don't know… But when I heard… I just had to come…"

"And so you came all this way by yourself," Cliff said.

"Well, absence does make the heart grow fonder," Cyrus said. "But still, that put too much strain on you, Ameena."

"I guess..."

"The royal research facility… Does that ring a bell?" Fayt asked Nel.

"There's only one research lab in Aquios—Lady Elena's Runological Weapon Research Facility."

"Really? If that's the case, I may have already met him! Ameena, what's your friend's name?"

"His name…is Dion."

"What? Dion's your long-lost friend?"

"Whoa! Shocking!" Cyrus said.

"Do you know him?" Ameena asked anxiously. "That means Dion… He's… He's really here… I'm going to see him."

"No, wait, you're sick. You have to stay here," Mirage said.

"But..."

"Ameena, you can't move in the state you're in," Fayt said. "Look, I'll bring Dion here to see you."

"Fayt..."

"Ameena, listen to me. I don't want you running around and collapsing again!"

"Okay,"

"Mirage, can you please stay by her side?"

"Yes. Leave her to me," Mirage said.

"Dion is still in the research lab?" Fayt asked Nel.

"Yes, he is… He's still preparing the runological weapons they're going to take to Arias," Nel explained.

"I'll be right back," Fayt said.

"We'll be in the audience chamber to get enough information about the situation as possible." Cyrus said.

"Okay." The group headed to the castle and parted ways inside. Cliff left to buy amenities such as potions and fresh sages. Fayt traveled to the fabrication room while Cyrus and Nel arrived at the audience chamber and presented themselves to the queen.

"We're sorry we're late, you majesty," Nel said as both her and Cyrus kneeled down to one knee. "We humbly ask for your forgiveness."

"You should," Magistrate Lasselle snapped. "Time is of the essence. There's no telling what those Airyglyph slime are doing while you're sitting around playing games."

"Lasselle, please..." the Queen said.

"Yes, your majesty."

"Man Lasselle," Cyrus thought with folded arms, "who pissed in your cup of tea in the mornings."

"As you may know, our situation is grave. With the information that we have received, Airyglyph forces are beginning to stir. It would seem they are planning an invasion led by Duke Vox of the Dragon Brigade. Some of our key personnel have already left for Arias. Unfortunately, I feel they will have a hard time holding the Glyphian troops at bay. I hope our new runological weapon will be developed in time..." the queen explained.

"Do not worry," Cyrus assured. "We already have the resources to complete the Thunder Arrow. With the upgrades that we've made, I have total confidence that Aquaria will end up on top, your majesty. It still depends on time, but nonetheless I still believe we'll have the armament working soon enough."

"I hope you are right. We have also transferred all our weaponry to the battlefield. I pray that everyone will come back safely."

"As do I," Nel said.

Nel and Cyrus stood back up and whispered to each other. "This isn't good," Cyrus said. "If what the Queen says is true, we're seriously outnumbered seventeen to one. I'm not saying that we're gonna go down. What I am saying is this fight's gonna be pretty hard."

"There's no arguing with those odds," Nel commented. "You know Cyrus, I just thought of something. We're fine as a group, Cyrus, but there is one dilemma."

"Besides the horde of armored knights and their squadron of flying lizards, what other issues are there?"

"No single fighter alone from our militia is able to stand their ground against Vox or Albel."

"You're right. My little joust with Nox nearly had me shanked, permanently. I'm still able to take him on, but not so soon."

"That's true, but still, if we had a warrior of that kind of strength, we would be able to lower the rate of casualties."

"You have a point. But who could accomplish such skills and where would you find such a soldier?"

Nel shrugged as she didn't have the answer to this question. As they were about to walk out the doorway, they were stopped by a loud, rough voice coming from outside. "I made it on time. I'm back." The two took there battle positions. The man that entered looked around sixty or seventy years in Cyrus' perception. Still, he looked pretty masculine. He wore high sandals and a red drag and no shirt, showing his muscles. Everyone in the room was shocked to see him.

"Huh?" was the only word that the magistrate could let out before his jaw dropped.

"Y-You?" Nel said in surprise.

"Wh-What?" Cyrus said, unsure about why everyone was acting weird.

"It's been a long time, Adray," the queen said calmly. "Were you off on some mission in distant lands?"

"You can say that again," he said after a hearty chuckle. "I was investigating an island nation off the northern coast of Gaitt. Makes me wonder how important it is to investigate places so remote, they aren't even shown on the map…"

Magistrate Lasselle walked down the throne, still pretty surprised. "You're back much earlier than I expected. Did you complete your investigations? We have reports that there was a new king in that land last year. And we also heard that the younger brother of the previous king has come to Gaitt. This situation warrants…"

Being tired of hearing the magistrates voice, Adray slammed his hand over his head, but Lasselle quickly blocked the attack. "Shut up, Lasselle!" Adray shouted. Cyrus' face was painted in astonishment. "Warriors should always be sent to where their country needs them the most, right?"

As the two started bickering, Cyrus moved over to Nel and asked, "Yo, Nel, who's the dude?"

"That's Adray Lasbard. He used to be the leader of the Shield Legion and was also in the Crimson Blade. He's one of the best known swordsmen and engineers Aquaria has ever known, over the course of its long history. Although he's not the man he once was, even now there are many who think, he's still the best fighter in the entire kingdom."

"Whoa! Now those are credentials! Hold up- you said 'Lasbard.' That means..."

"That's right. He's Clair's father. Cant you see the resemblance?"

"Is that a trick question?"

"I know what you mean. Hardly anyone believes it." Nel looked behind Cyrus to see Adray standing behind him. "So, what are you going to do?"

"What do you mean by that?"

"It looks like Adray wants to come with us."

"Say what?"

"You've seen how he is. If you're planning on saying no, you'll have to think of a really smooth way to say it."

"Uh..."

Cyrus turned around to see Adray had already faced him. "So you must be Cyrus. I'm Adray. I've heard all about you. Let's work together to drive out those Airyglyph weasels!"

"It's cool that you wanna come, but I think we're okay!"

"Why so reticent? I can't just sit on my posterior and relax while our visitors from Greeton are exposed to mortal danger. Leave the rest of the fighting to me. Just relax. Think of it as a pleasure cruise."

"Reticent... Forgot to look that up in the dictionary. Still, we have this covered."

"Don't you worry. I may be old but I'm still Adray. I'm not too old to trounce the young fellows; not just yet mind you."

"That's tight and all, but still..."

"I don't think he's listening," Nel said as Adray completely ignored Cyrus with a prideful grin on his face.

The only thing the young swordsman could do was sigh and grin. "You don't take 'no' for an answer. I like you that. It seems my teacher was right: a warrior's flame always burns, no matter how long time passes."

"Ah, wise words," Adray said. "I think we should get going. There is no time to talk in the time of war." The warrior walked out of the room.

Cyrus had something on his mind. "Is everything okay?" Nel asked. "I know Adray is a little... 'enthusiastic,' but he's disciplined and real strong. I have a feeling he's the fighter we need."

"It's not that," Cyrus said. "It's just that I don't think he knows where he's going."

They looked at the passageway and saw Adray walking back. "Uh, Nel? Can you please lead the way." Nel shook her head gently and stared at elder warrior in contempt. She walked the two warriors back to the inn. By the time they reached the front door, Nel was stopped by a subordinate of hers.

"Lady Nel," the soldier said. "I have some information about the war."

"Very well." Both she and the fellow officer went across the street and discussed the news.

"What do you think it's about, Adray?" Cyrus asked.

"I don't know. Maybe those Glyphians are planning some sort of counterattack. Just in case the Thunder Arrow comes into play."

"You knew about the Thunder Arrow?" the young shizznit said in shock.

"Of course," the elder warrior said in a calm tone. "One of the guards told me about it when I first entered the castle. Before that, I was told about it in Arias. That was where I got word of you and your other comrades from Greeton."

"Ah, I see." After the conversation, the subordinate left for the castle and Nel walked back to the others. "So what was it?"

"I'll tell you about it inside. I think you'll like it."

"Sound's serious," Adray whispered. Nel escorted the two swordsmen to a bedroom upstairs with Roger and Cliff to keep them company. Then she walked across the hall to get Fayt and Mirage. The three came in, Fayt was still looking depressed over Ameena's current state, but was a bit happy that she got to see Dion again.

"All right, give me the dirt. Where do we stand on the battle front?" Cliff asked.

"I'll be honest with you. It's pretty bad. The enemy forces have already swept past Kirlsa and they have established a front by the national border, close to Arias. I also have reports that indicate that this is the largest force they've ever fielded…"

"That's not good… The enemy's serious this time. Vox is spearheading the attack, right? And all three Airyglyph brigades are participating?"

"Yes, but apparently, Albel the Wicked is not participating in this operation." Cyrus perked up as soon as he heard that information.

"Is that so?" Cliff asked.

"The reports indicate as much. There is a possibility that the events at the Bequerel Mines are somehow related."

"Ah, make sense. Well, whatever. We'll take on whoever they throw at us."

Cyrus blew out of relief. "I'm just glad it isn't Nox," Cyrus thought. "The last time was too close of a shave for me. I guess my being here hasn't made much impact in this universe, luckily."

"I'm sorry… I didn't bring you two all this way to help fight our war," Nel said.

"Hah, not you tell me! Don't worry—being here was our decision."

"I appreciate you saying that. And I know our leadership is counting on you—whether they come out and say it or not. Have no doubt; you will be a vital part of our defense."

"Well, it's not like I can just let things go their merry way now." He turned to Fayt. "In for a penny, in for a pound, right?"

Silence came before Fayt came back to reality. "Uh, yeah, that's right."

"You weren't listening, were you?" Cliff asked while scratching his head. "What's on your mind?"

"It's just… Watching Dion and Ameena… I couldn't help but remember Sophia. …I wonder what she's doing right now. And then there's my dad… I just hope everyone's safe."

"Fayt..." Cyrus said.

"It's not really my place to say this, but… I'm truly sorry," Nel said apologetically. "Sorry for keeping you here so long. I know you want to go help your father."

"Don't worry about that," Fayt said. "It's not like I have a way to get to him now, anyway. It was just bothering me."

"I said this before, but worrying won't help," Cliff replied. "You have to focus— do what you can now."

There was silence in the room as Fayt began to think over situation. " You're right. All I can do is help this country… And figure out how we're going to survive this."

"That's right."

"We will survive this, G," Cyrus said. "As soon as we win this war, we'll continue searching for your dad."

"Thank you, Cyrus," Fayt said.

"So, what do you want me to do?" Mirage asked. "I can fight, if you want me to."

"Ah yes… What DO you want her to do?" Cliff asked. "She's a great fighter, like I told you before."

"I think I'd like her to stay with Ameena," Fayt suggested.

"Hmm… I guess you're right," Cliff said. "No sense getting her involved now. Mirage, you okay with that?"

"Fine."

"I'm sorry to have kept you all waiting," Dion said as he walked into the door.

"Are you ready?" Nel asked.

"Yes… And we've no time to spare. I'm looking forward to having time to chat with Ameena once the war's done."

"That's right… Another good reason to win this war," Fayt said.

"Yes, we'll win this one. I promised Ameena we would."

"Okay, let's do it!" Cliff said.

"All right, Dion, hurry up and finish your preparations," Nel said. "We'll go on ahead to Arias."

"Okay," Fayt said in agreement. Dion left the room and headed for Aquios.

"Finally, a time for action," Adray said as he lifted himself from the chair. The group looked at him.

"So who's he?" Roger asked.

"I am Adray Lasbard, the ex leader of the Crimson Blade. Ah, so you two must be Fayt and Cliff. I have heard much about you two and Cyrus."

"What brings such an establish veteran here?" Cliff asked.

"Since you are humble guests from Greeton, I would like to serve as your guardians. It would not feel right leaving you three in clear and present danger. Don't worry, I may seem old, but I assure you, I'm as strong and powerful as when I was younger."

"We're much obliged for your service," Fayt said.

"Well as much as I like to stay around welcoming the new guy," Roger said, "we have more pressing business to attend, right m'lady?"

"For once, I'll have to agree with you," Nel said flatly. The group left Aquios and headed back to Arias... again.

Author's Note 1: It's hard enough that Cyrus must try and survive in the Star Ocean universe as it is. But when you have a being like Lystara Catalysta added to the mix, the playing field gets a little bit shaky. She's back and ready to test the young player's abilities against my favorite villain. Will he pass? Let's find out

Part 13.2: A Grave Situation

As Cyrus and his group wondered through the wilderness of the Palmira Plains, a familiar and deviant girl caught his eye. "Well Cyrus, it's been a long time," the girl said.

"Not you!" Cyrus yelled in disbelief and confusion as he drew his sword.

"You know her?" Cliff asked. "I mean, the clothes are a good give away, but still..."

"You could say that. That's Lystara Catalysta. A bad acquaintance, if you know what I mean."

"Now don't be that way," Lystara said in a babying voice. "Just because I took your teacher out of the picture, doesn't mean you have to act all sour."

"You mean...?" Fayt was at lost of words.

"I guess he told you. That's right. I wiped out his master. Though I wonder, did he tell you everything." Cyrus' eyes were opened wide. "I mean, there's a lot more behind him than just being some young punk." Cyrus growled.

"What does she mean?" Nel asked.

"Lystara, leave them out of this," Cyrus commanded. "This battle is between you and me."

"Of course it is." A malevolent snicker was heard. "Isn't it always. But right now, I'm afraid that will have to wait."

"Well, what's wrong?" Roger hollered. "Are you a wimp or something?"

"As much as I like to show you some manners or turn Cyrus into nothing, our time is not near," Lystara said.

"That is not the way of a warrior," Adray stated. "Always fleeing from your opponent and using tricks."

"What you call tricks, aging one, is what I call strategy," Lystara smoothly replied. "I prefer to call myself a tactician."

"So you just came to scoff at me?" Cyrus said in an agonized tone.

"No, no, no dear Cyrus. Before I go, I'll leave you a present, from me to you."

"You aren't going anywhere!" As Cyrus charged at where Lystara stood, she disappeared seemingly out of thin air.

Suddenly, a large symbol similar to the materialization of monsters like the Flying Knight appeared. The insignia shot up a large beam of light and rising from the ground was a fierce threat. As soon as it emerge, the group's eyes widened. It was nine feet tall. It's body stood straight and was similar to that of a robot, yet this mechanized creature had eyes of a sentient being. They were yellow with a sharp pupil in both holes of the skull helmet. It moved its cloak to reveal a skinny frame similar to a rib cage. His arms were long and ended in six fingers. His legs, though thin were powerful and tipped with sharp, curved clawed feet similar to a bird. Around his waist were small metal holsters. Cyrus was in awe at who he was looking at. It was none other than the Confederacy's hybrid droid commander, General Grievous. Cyrus quickly rushed back to the group in quick haste.

"Holy shit..." Fayt said under his breath.

"Oh my god," Cyrus said slowly. "This is cool and scary at the same time. I love it!"

"Allow me to introduce myself," the metallic being said as he haunch down. "You may call me General Grievous...," he announced before he coughed. "The Supreme Commander of the Confederacy of Independent Systems."

"I've never heard of that," Cliff said.

"I'm sorry, but someone please tell me what is going on?" Nel said. "Are you from Greeton, too?"

"I have to say he's not," Cyrus responded. "But he's not from here either. I'll tell you this though: he certainly isn't one of the good guys."

"So what are you anyway?" Roger asked. "A mech or something?"

"Do not insult me, foolish child," he snapped and coughed. "I am a specimen that far surpasses the average flesh and blood or any droid soldier. I have been endowed with quickened reflexes and super human strength."

"Of course," Cyrus said. "You're also covered with a heavy duty armor made of Durasteel and armor plasted Duranium. Both strong metals. Your organs are protected by a well built synthe-flesh to keep harmful entities at bay, and your design is similar to a Krath War Droids of the olden days."

"So that explains why he's coughing," Fayt said. "He's a cyborg."

"How do you know this?" Grievous questioned and coughed. "The information was never released. Not even the Jedi have such knowledge."

"Eh... That's not the point," Cyrus quickly parried. "My main question is why are you here? Aren't you supposed to be abducting a certain Chancellor?"

"Your friend informed me of a worthy opponent. Saying that his abilities are high enough to even rival a Jedi. I was not convinced at first, and I still question this assumption."

"So why did you come here?"

"I wanted to know why she would make such an accusation. But now I understand. I can feel two energies. It is... unique." He coughed again. "What are your names?" He asked, pointing to Fayt and Cyrus.

"I am Fayt Leingod."

"I'm Cyrus Splicer."

"So, you are this Cyrus Splicer... When I first heard about your skill, I figured you to be..."

"Older?"

"Taller."

"Well, you know the old sayin' homes, 'big things come in small packages.'"

"So let me get this straight," Cliff said. "You're some cyborg from another dimension and you were brought here by that chick to defeat Cyrus?"

"I still don't understand this predicament," Adray said as he held his forehead.

"You are said to be skilled, yet you wield such crude tools? Do you mock me?" He coughed.

"We like to use our own style."

"I see you do not understand the situation you are in. Very well, enough talk. It's time... to die!"

"Not if we have anything to say about it!" Roger shouted.

The general pulled up two holsters in each hand and both arms split in two. Everyone except Cyrus was in shock. "I see you do not know what these are, seeing you are of a different space-time."

"Explain," Adray said.

"They are light sabers. Light energy weapons that I have collected from Jedi warriors I have defeated." he coughed. "These will be the weapons of choice that I use to slaughter all of you."

"You're sick," Fayt said.

"Why thank you, scum," the general sneered.

"A true warrior does not humiliate one's adversary in such a fashion." Adray stated. "That shows dishonor and disrespect."

"A bold lesson, old one. I'll be sure to give you all an 'honorable' death."

"You're not taking anyone's weaponry," Cyrus said. "Not today. And we ain't dying either."

"We'll see about that," the general hissed. Cyrus turned to General Grievous' theme from the movie and the battle begun. The General jumped up high and the group looked up. As he plummeted down to the ground, the group got out of the droid's way... barely. On his impact, everyone was knocked down to the ground by the force. Even when Fayt and Cyrus jumped, they fell on their backs from the aftershock. The general zeroed in on Fayt and Cyrus spinning both pairs of arms simultaneously. The bottom two were held low and made a burnt trail. As they fended off the general's top pair, the commander began to strike Cyrus with the bottom right arm. Cyrus counterattacked by jamming the revolution. Fayt also jammed the revolution of the bottom left as it was about to strike. "What?" the General yelped. "My sabers should've slice your primitive throwbacks in two."

"Seems Catalysta wanted you to play on an equal field," Cyrus said.

As General Grievous was about to slash at the two with his top right saber, Adray came out of no where and blocked the attack. Unfortunately, they were both thrown back by the adversary's free hand on his top left. General Grievous turned around and saw Nel preparing a symbological attack. "What is this concoction?" he asked himself. As he rushed over instinctively, Nel unleashed her Ice Needles. Unfortunately, the attack bounced off the tactician's armor plating. The spy looked at the general in shock. He grabbed Nel by his left foot and threw her to the three swordsman who were about to get back up, but were knocked down again as she landed on their bodies. Roger used his Flying Torpedo and landed a hit from behind. The general was down. "Ha, that's what you get for messing with my henchmen!"

"Don't sugar-coat it!" Cyrus yelled. Roger did not know that the hybrid droid rose.

Suddenly, the general grabbed the Menodix by the tail with his foot and raised him. The young boy looked up at the commander's cold eyes and nervously laughed. "Insolent little welp." He was thrown into Cliff who was charging at the droid from behind. General Grievous crept close to Cyrus, Nel, Fayt and Adray. "Now to finish you..." he said. While twirling his light sabers, the general slowly opened his chest plate, ready to open fire. Inside, it revealed the cyborg's internal organs including his heart.

"Bingo!" Cyrus thought as an idea popped into his head. He kicked back up and charged up a symbological spell. "Everyone, it's time to heat this sucka up!"

Fayt looked at the opened "I get it." As Fayt prepared for his Blazing Sword, Cyrus launched his Fire Bolt. The attack first darted fast him, the it zoomed back, hitting the supreme commander's organs. Grievous started staggering from the hit. He quickly closed his chamber and notice Fayt charging at the him head on. Before the villain could react, Fayt scored a blow on him. The force sent the droid flying quite a distance, and caused him to fall flat on his back.

"Ha!" Cyrus said. "And they said you learn nothing from the theatres."

Smoke was emanating from General Grievous' body. The two swordsman approached the cyborg just to receive an ugly surprise. The general's eyes quickly opened. He grabbed both teenagers with his feet by the neck and threw them behind him. At the same time, he continued to move his feet back until the claws pierced the ground. He was now standing back up and hacking hard from the onslaught. "You have proven yourself strong adversaries. I guess I'm glad I came here." The two swordsman looked at the droid with sharp glares. "Your skills do rival those of most Jedi I have encountered. You must consider yourselves lucky. You are the first to actually make me fall. Perhaps I could convince you to be at my side to aid the Confederacy. With our powers, there would be no one able to stop us."

"Dream on," Fayt said.

"That's right, we'll never join you or your Confederate crimes."

"I guess it is shame." Grievous coughed. "Your talents would have been put to good use. I guess I'll take your weapons as trophies from our battle..." General Grievous picked up the two by their already sore necks. "I guess it is time to good bye. Don't worry, you'll see your comrades in the afterlife." As the two were getting choked, Cyrus began to chuckle. "Why are you laughing, is death humorous?" General Grievous coughed again.

"No, it's not that. It's just that I remembered something. Hey, Fayt, do you remember that time Nel accidently turned of that 'Light'?"

"Cyrus this isn't..." he stopped speaking as he realized what Cyrus was intending on doing. "Yeah," he said in a long, sly tone. "Which made Roger accidently get poked by a 'Saber.'"

Cyrus had two light sabers in his hands and passed one to Fayt. "So Cliff put the weapon on the lamp and we had a..."

"LIGHT SABER!" They both shouted in unison as they sliced Grievous' arms off and dropped. They caught their breath as the supreme commander was yelling in pain. The General staggered back and saw the two coming. They slashed relentlessly at the hybrid droid whose only defense was to kick back. In about five minutes, the armless robot laid motionless, down and out for good after a double Blazing Sword assault. Cyrus and Fayt kept their light sabers and put them in their pack. A symbol similar to the one General Grievous arrived in returned and he disappeared in its light.

After the light show, Lystara's form reappeared. "Well Cyrus and company, I must congratulate you. For a moment, I thought you were goners."

"Yeah, whatever," Cyrus said. "Now how about you and me, let's go!"

"Patience, Cyrus. All good things must wait before they come to an end."

"Nothing's gonna be ending, 'cept you."

"We'll see. For now, farewell." Lystara's form vanished. The group turned back to Cyrus.

"Man, she's beginning to piss me off," Cliff said.

"Cyrus..." Nel trailed. "What did she mean by 'tell us everything.'"

"I'm afraid now's not the time to talk about that," Cyrus said. "I'll tell you about it later. Right now, we have a war that needs to be won." Cyrus walked off with his head down and his hands in his coat pockets. For the rest of the trip, the group remained silent until they reached the village of Arias.

Author's Note 1: Did you like that? This will be the first of few. If anyone is interested, you could post another villain that I could use in this story.

Part 13.3: Chaotic Darkness , Unleashed Destruction

The group of six arrived at Arias. By the time the came through the entrance, a soldier quickly ran to deliver important news. "Ah, Lady Nel—Commander Clair and the others are waiting

for you at headquarters!" the soldier said. "Please hurry." Nel nodded and led the group to the mansion.

"Nel Zelpher reporting, ma'am," she said as they entered the conference room.

"Sit down," Clair said. As they sat Adray came up to her and said, "Well, well, it seems everything is still the same as before."

"F-Father?" Clair said.

"Who did you expect? Nikson?"

"Oh dear," Clair said under her breath. "Please take a seat." Adray went up to the table and sat in one of the chairs. Later on, Clair began to explain the situation to three other commanding officers in the room. "Although the enemy has superiority in numbers, we can fight them from a distance with runological weapons. We'll use runology to deal with the Dragon Brigade, too. If we fought them head on, we'd be playing right into Airyglyph's hands. We must maintain our distance and avoid close combat at all costs. The operations begins at the break of dawn tomorrow. I want all units ready."

"Yes, ma'am," they said in unison before they soluted and left the room.

"Dismissed." The three commanders left the room and Clair turned to Nel. "Nel, I have a separate task for you to carry out, apart from the main force. I want you to break through enemy lines and destroy Airyglyph's command center."

"Vox?"

"That's right." Clair turns to Fayt and the rest of the company. "Fayt, Cliff, Cyrus, I'd also like to

request your assistance if I may."

"Of course," Cliff said. "That's why we're here."

"Sure," Fayt said.

"We gotcha covered," Cyrus said.

"I never meant for you to become so involved in this, but…" Clair trailed.

"We have to involve them," Nel said. "They're a bigger asset in combat than anyone else in my outfit."

"Please don't worry about it," Fayt said. "I have my own reason for wanting to fight, I want to end this war as soon as possible…"

"Right," Cliff said.

"After all, the sooner the better," Cyrus said.

"Okay," Clair said. "Thank you, all of you. Fayt, Cliff, Cyrus. Please assist Nel in her operation."

"Yes ma'am," Cliff said.

"Alright," Fayt responded.

"You got it," Cyrus responded.

"There's still some time before you need to leave. Please make preparations. Check your equipment, and rest if you must. It's all up to you, Nel."

"Leave it to me."

"I'm counting on you." As the group began to leave, Clair called Cyrus over. "Cyrus, may I speak to you for a moment?"

"Ah, sure." Cyrus walked over to the gray haired commander. "So, is there something wrong?"

"No, not really. You see, when it comes to situations like this, my father can get... out of hand. We wanted to try and keep him out of this war seeing that it would be too late to participate in our forces, but he would just end up following you anyway."

"Forgive me for saying this, but let me guess. You would like us to watch over him and make sure he comes back as a whole instead of tiny pieces."

"That's one way of saying it. Be assured, he is a skilled and brilliant fighter."

"Yes, but I guess it doesn't hurt to play it safe, even in the heat of battle. Alright, you have yourself a deal, ma'am."

"Thank you, Cyrus." Clair bowed.

"No need. We're glad to help in any way possible." As Cyrus left the conference room, he felt a strange sensation on both arms. As soon as the strange feeling ceased, Cyrus pushed up a sleeve and was shocked. His symbological markings began glowing for no reason. "Wha- What's happening?" he said in a stunned voice. "Somethin's gonna happen. And I doubt Fayt has any part of this." Then he remembered what would happen after the Vendeeni arrived. At that moment, Fayt's powers had increased. "Or could it?" he asked himself in a worried voice. "If that will happen to Fayt, will my powers also start to manifest?" Cyrus thought. "No way. I shouldn't even worry about that, seeing is that I'm not from here..." For the whole day, Cyrus shopped for merchandise while listening to his music. He knew he needed a plan to defeat Vox the next day and was thinking about one the whole day. He also went to Dion to ask if he could use any leftover copper for an invention.

"An invention you say?" Dion asked.

"Yes. I'm gonna use the copper to create a lum-less vehicle that can transport the rider on certain terrain. It would help people go to areas a lot quicker than usual."

"That sounds interesting. Are you sure you could create such a method?"

"But of course. I'm Cyrus M. Splicer, engineer of Greeton. With my 230 IQ, the possibility will be a reality, my friend."

"You seem content with this. Very well, then. You may use as much spare copper as you need."

"Thank you, Dion." Cyrus bowed and began training at Irisa Fields. During his training, he couldn't help but the strange sensation. "Why is this happening?" he thought to himself as he stared at his held up hand. He knew that he couldn't shake the feeling that something was going to happen to him. After his practice, Cyrus returned upstairs and saw Roger. "Yo, Rog."

"Hey, Cyrus."

"So, you ready for the big fight tomorrow?"

"Yeah, I guess... I still don't like what's going on. I mean, how come we're the suicide squad? We may be pretty feared, but isn't this too much?"

"You have a point..."

"I mean, there is a good chance that we'll be killed before we even reach Vox."

"You're right, but never fear. As always, OGC gots a plan. Besides, with our combined force, no one's gonna die anytime soon."

"I still have a bad feeling about this."

Cyrus was silent for a little bit and held his head down. "You're not the only one," he muttered. He turned around and went to the guest room where he saw Fayt, and Cliff.

"Ah, look who's here," Cliff said.

"Are you ready for tomorrow?" Fayt asked.

"Ready as I'll ever be," Cyrus replied.

"You two might wanna get your rest," Cliff suggested. "It's gonna be a busy day."

"I guess you're right," Fayt agreed. "I'll go early in preparation for tomorrow."

"Besides, there's nothing else to do," Cyrus responded. "I feel like catching some Z's anyways."

"That's probably a good idea," Cliff replied. "The last thing I wanna see is us losing because you didn't get enough sleep."

"Yeah," Cyrus said before he yawned. "How many wars do you know were won because the other side's fighters suffered from narcolepcy."

"That would be embarrassing," Fayt commented.

"Well, good night," Cliff said. The two swordsman laid in the separate beds and were knocked out. The next morning, it was time to go. Fayt, Cliff and Cyrus went to the conference room where Clair was waiting for them.

"Are you all ready to go?" the gray haired commander asked.

"More than we'll ever be," Cyrus said.

"That's right," Fayt replied. "We have no more time to loose."

"Very well," Clair said. "The Runological Unit will also set out shortly. Let's go." Clair led the three warriors to the northern gate where the war was going to be held. The three warriors reunited with their companions as Clair walked up to her army with Tynave and Farleen at each side. "Are the preparations complete? What we do here will determine victory or defeat. If we do not defend this position, they'll take the royal city in one fell swoop. We must stop them here. …Let's do it." She looked at her troop of soldiers. "All units, move out!"

The group was in the battlefield of the Aire/ Kirlsa Hills. "Finally!" Adray shouted in glee. "Take it in people." He inhaled deeply and exhaled. "The whiff of the battlefield. It makes me feel so alive once more."

"Boy, you're a real poet," Roger sneered.

"It's like a scene in the movies," Cyrus said. He changed his voice to a deep tone similar to a film announcer. "In a time where war ravages the land, a young black man and his motley crew must take thier place in history. They must stop overwhelming odds of unstoppable enemies, defeat power-hungry warlords, and unlock the powers within them. In order to survive, they must... keep it real."

Everyone was silent and the sounds of background fighting filled the air. "What are you talking about?" Cliff hollered, breaking the audience.

"I have a feeling that you made all of that up," Fayt said.

"I still don't get this thing about 'keeping it real,'" Roger replied.

"It's a thing you'll learn about when you get older," Cyrus said playfully.

"No time for chit-chat," Nel said. "We have a mission to complete."

"So let's give 'em hell!" Cyrus said. He set his music player to "Imperial City" from Panzer Dragoon Orta. The group charged through the mass of soldiers. On their trek, the group faced heavily armored knights and equally quick lums. Still, the massive opposition was no match for the group's strength.

After a few dragon battles near the base camp, they were in the confronted by the commander of Airyglyph's troop, Lord Vox. "So, you're the ones I've been hearing about… The ones who defeated Albel…"

"So what if we are?" Cliff asked.

"Vox! You die here, now!" Nel yelled.

"You've got a lot of guts, but we'll bury you just the same… Leave these scum to me, men!" Vox said to his soldiers.

"You're calling us scum, you ego-centric chump?" Cyrus yelled. "You're the fool that started this war by falsely accusing Aquaria of assassination. You should go back and get your shoe shine box, fool."

"I see we have us a rebellious spirit," Vox said as he readied his mount, a blue dragon named Tempest. "Don't worry. You'll go first."

"That's what you think," Cyrus said.

"Nel, you ready to put this guy down?" Cliff asked.

"You bet," Nel said.

"Then let's go," Fayt said.

Though he ordered his dragon squadron to stand down, the ground unit kept Adray and Roger busy. Cyrus set his music player to "Rumbling of the Earth" from Baiten Kaitos and the battle started. Cyrus spun his sword in his hand and jumped at the dragon. Duke Vox's dragon was now airborne. The attack connected and Cyrus landed on the ground. The captain began to attack by using his Dragon Brigade Slash. He ran his lance on the ground twice, kicking up sand with each slice. Cyrus was hit by the move, but he was still standing. Fayt and Cliff charged to the aerial adversary, sword ready and fists clench. Vox saw them approaching and commanded his dragon to use Searing Fire Breath. In the nick of time, the trio evaded the attack by jumping high in the air. Cliff used his Hammer of Might on Vox, while Fayt and Cyrus parried slashes. In mid-air, Nel came out of nowhere and delivered more damage to the Dragon Brigade captain. Vox was overwhelmed. It seemed that the battle would be over soon enough, until his armored reptile shot straight up like a giant bullet taking the group with it. As it breached, it also caused a vacuuming. This was Steel Rend and unlike lighting, the attack that came twice. The group, though suffering a hard landing, steadily rose back up. As the dragon approached, the four quickly healed themselves and charged at Vox. Vox was coming at full speed, and aimed straight for Fayt when the four split up. Fayt held his ground as the dragon growled and started to unleash its fire breath again. Before it could even exhale an ember, Cliff struck from the side with Electric Fists. The rally of blows caused the dragon to fall hard on the ground. The dragon showed signs of fatigue. It was all or nothing. Cyrus and Nel double teamed as they launched themselves at Vox. The hit worked at the dragon fell again. The dragon slowly picked itself up and started flying. That was all the dragon could do, seeing it was too weak for anything else.

"You put up a nice fight!" Vox said. "But I wouldn't have it any other way!"

Just then, a Storm Brigade soldier looked up. "Huh? What's that?" he said as a large pink light shot down from the sky.

It slammed into the ground and caused a powerful explosion. "W-what is that?" was the last thing Duke Vox said before he was engulfed in the blast.

The group was knocked onto the ground from the event. "The Dragon Brigade?" Nel asked herself. "No, that's—?"

"It's them..." Cliff said with a scowl.

"No, it can't be," Cyrus said. Out of the clouds of a sunlit sky, the enormous metal of a large ship emerged. It was none other than a Vendeeni War Frigate. Everyone on the ground who was still alive looked up in the sky in awe and shock. Airyglyph's dragons from overhead flocked to investigate the strange vessel.

"What IS that?" Nel asked. "…Something from Greeton?"

"No…" Fayt said. "That's…"

"The Vendeeni..." Cyrus replied.

"Vendeeni...?" Nel said.

"What are they doing all the way out here?" Fayt pondered. "Are they planning on conquering this world?"

"Not to bust your bubble, but don't you think that to be a little cliche?" Cyrus asked.

"Hey!" Cliff said. "We'd better get outta here! I know what THEY're after."

"What do you mean?" Fayt asked.

"You know somethin', homes," Cyrus said.

"Uh, actually..." Cliff was at lost of words.

"Can't it wait?" Nel said. "We need to get back to headquarters. Staying here is not a good idea."

"O-okay!" Fayt stuttered.

"Hey where's Roger and Adray?" Cyrus asked.

"You rang?" a young voice said. The group turned around and saw Roger and Adray.

"Good, the gang's all here," Adray said. "Let's move."

Cyrus and the gang hurried back to the boarder in haste. "Cyrus," Nel called.

"What is it?"

"Do you think this... Vendeeni is stronger than General Grievous is? Are they in leage with him?"

"I don't think so," he said out of respect for the villain. "But I know one thing. These guys ain't fooling around."

"We're almost there!" Fayt said. Suddenly, the group was stopped as they saw the projectiles from the runological weapons fired at the ship. Also, the Dragon Brigade also participated in the assault of the ship. Unfortunately, neither fire power nor fire breath was able to damage it. The ship's shields were absorbing the each hit and fired back ten fold. On the ground, both sides suffered as entire mountain sides were bombarded by the ships artillery. Fireballs that were once dragons and their riders fell from the sky and laid as charred remains. The group made it to the camp, only to find out that the Vendeeni are ravaging the site too. "Dion!" he called out as the Chief Researcher and his comrades were under heavy fire.

"Retreat! Retreat!" Dion yells to the personnel. "Leave the runological weapons where they are! Save your own lives!" Suddenly, a shot from the battleship made close impact. Dion tried to evade the attack, but he suffered serious injury.

"Dion, sir!" a male soldier called as he tried to pick himself, but to no avail and he collapse to the ground, unconscious.

"No, stop… Stop, please…" Fayt begged, while holding his head.

"This... This can't be happening..." Cyrus said as he stared into the unfriendly skies.

Cliff put his hand on Fayt's shoulder. "Yo, snap out of it! Run! You'll both be captured!" he exclaimed.

"Captured? What are you talking about?" Fayt said.

"You do know something!" Cyrus said. "This have something to do with both of us!" He knew why they were after Fayt, but he still has no idea why Cliff said he was searching for Fayt and himself when they first met.

"Wait—they're not—they're not after us, are they?" Fayt stuttered. "Was that why they attacked Hyda? Was that our fault?"

"That can't be, homes!"

"Calm down, Fayt! I can explain—"

"No—I see now," Fayt said. "It is all because of us. Everything… That's why Hyda was attacked! That's why the Helre was attacked! And now Elicoor, too! It's all our fault!"

"I can't believe it," Cyrus thought. "All this time, I thought all this is because Fayt was wanted by the Vendeeni. But now, after hearing what Cliff said, I don't know if this is solely about Fayt anymore."

"I said calm down! Listen to me!" As Cliff was about to put his hand on Fayt's shoulder again, the blue- haired swordsman smacked his hand away.

"What do they want me for? Why do they want me enough to kill so many innocent people? Who—who the hell am I?" Suddenly, the strange symbol appeared above Fayt's head as well as strange symbols flashing on his arms. A larger design appeared on the ground. As the marking began to appear, a celestial entity, angel-like in appearance formed from Fayt's body. As it lifted its arms, another symbol ring appeared, launching a powerful beam at the ship. Rings of power surrounded the Vendeeni ship and before long... it was gone, without a trace. Fayt collapsed on the ground as the manifestation began to cease. The symbol on his forehead slowly disappeared.

Cliff rushed toward him as was Nel, until a loud yell came from Cyrus holding his head as the symbols on his arms started flashing through his coat's sleeve. Nel rushed over to Cyrus as quick as possible, but she was too late. A dark aura had surrounded Cyrus and threw Nel back. Out of nowhere, large wings like those of a bat sprouted from his back and the aura that engulfed Cyrus like a flame now became a pillar of darkness. Ripples of waves began appearing by the dark power Cyrus could not control. He was levitating a few feet above the ground now, wings stretched wide. From the pillar, balls of dark energy began to bombard the ground, causing more destruction to the field. Cliff took Fayt and, with the rest of the gang in toe, hid behind equipment that was out of a five mile radius. It wasn't long before his wings started to retract and the dark pillar closed up. Cyrus, dropped to the ground of the disappearing symbological design. The markings on his arms stopped flashing and he laid unconsciously.

"Cyrus!" Nel yelped as she and the rest of the group rushed to help him. It seemed that he was knocked out cold, just as Fayt was.

"That power... I've never anticipated either of them to be so strong..." Cliff mumbled. As Adray took Cyrus' arm and put it over his shoulder, the group carried the unconscious duo back to Aquios.

Meanwhile, on a cliff near the closest mountain, Lystara watched the event. Her straight smile became a half smirk. "Yes," she said. "Cyrus' powers are maturing. This is intriguing, indeed. I guess I need a new game plan if I am to compete with such a rival." With that said, Lystara opened a portal and entered. She disappeared without a trace.