An Angels Thief.
Chapter 8: This is Harrowing (part 1)
~ Institute of War, Infirmary. Three weeks since Oliver's first match.
''Well I have to say that I'm impressed, you're looking a lot better compared to when Kayle pulled you out of that Institute prison.'' Tea commented while scribbling some notes on a notepad. ''Vitals look good, body is mostly free of injuries and your mental state seems improving as well.''
''What can I say? Next to adjusting to the League, I've been trying to get back into shape.'' I said a bit embarrassed by the medic's compliments.
''It's showing, but make sure you're eating healthy or you might exceed your past weight.'' The Summoner said chuckling into his hand. ''Anyway, that should conclude your checkup, you're free to go.''
''Say… Summoner Tea? Are we friends?'' I asked awkwardly as I put on my long winter coat.
''Of course Oliver, why wouldn't we be friends?'' He asked confused.
''I don't know.. It's just that since the League has made me available to the public testers I've been questioning what Summoners I can truly call 'friend'.'' I explained while grabbing my scarf. ''I mean sure I can call Rose a friend but so many of these Summoners hide behind these absurd names…''
''Well if it helps you sleep at night;'' Tea said putting away his notepad and outstretched his hand towards me. ''The name's Michael, I'm Rose's husband and Soraka's substitute in the Institute's infirmary.'' He said while I gingerly shook his hand.
''Riiiiiiight…'' Now it was my turn to be confused as the Summoner suddenly acted a bit too strange for my taste. ''Say, Michael, there's one more thing about you that's bothering me.''
''It's the white Summoner robe isn't it?'' Michael said as if he read my mind. ''It's a special robe that distinguishes me from the other Summoners. For example, if someone needs medical attention, I would be easy to spot.''
''Makes sense, I'll keep that in mind when Soraka is nowhere to be found.'' I said with a small smile before turning to the door of the office. ''Thank you, Michael, for this uh... 'Moment'.''
Before I could close the door to the doctor's office it got blocked by a cane, preventing me from closing it behind me.
''Not so fast Mr. Mystery, all these questions got me curious about you.'' The doctor Summoner said as he limped after me.
''Don't you have long overdue medical reports to send to Kolminye?'' I asked with a grin as the Summoner caught up. ''If I were you I wouldn't get on her bad side.''
''Oh please, what is she going to do? Smite a crippled?'' Michael said before we shared a quick laugh. ''Now before you run off to gods knows where, how have you been enjoying the League for the past three weeks? I mean your official release is right around the corner before the Harrowing begins.''
''Getting used to the timetables of the League was probably one of the hardest things I ever had to do. I seriously don't know how Vayne hunts all night and then comes to this place for a whole day of matches…'' I said, the mentioning of the Night Hunter making Michael laugh.
''No one knows man, she's an enigma to most Summoners and Champions alike.'' He chuckled as we passed the infirmary entrance where he left his notepad with the receptionist. ''Sorry for interrupting, please, continue.''
''Well after getting used to waking up early, there's the pain that's public teleporters, especially in Piltover. You'd be surprised how many Summoners take those things.'' I explained with a sigh.
''Wait you still haven't received the key to your personal dorm here in the Institute?'' Michael asked a bit shocked. ''Normally those rooms are ready within a week depending on whether or not the champion has a place to stay.''
''That seems to happen when the medical checkup isn't filled in and send in.'' I said giving the Summoner a quick glare before sharing a chuckle.
''Hehe, nice try but it was you that requested it this late. That's all on you bud.'' The Summoner said, putting his free hand on my shoulder as we entered the Institute lobby. ''This is where we split up Oliver, I promised Rose I'd help with the Harrowing decorations.''
''Here? In the lobby? That's a show I don't want to miss, tell me. Who's going to climb the ladder? You with your cane or Rose with her characteristic clumsiness?'' I asked, receiving a shove from the Summoner.
''Hush you! We'll figure something out right after you grow the balls to ask Kayle out.'' Michael taunted with a smirk.
''I get it, I'll take my leave but don't expect any fruit baskets from me when you fall off of that ladder.'' I taunted back before leaving the Summoner to his plans. ''Now to fill in the rest of the day…'' I told myself, checking the large clock hanging in the Institute's lobby.
''Hmm, almost afternoon and already no idea what to do… This is going to be a boring day.'' I thought as I glared at the clock, not sure what I was going to do.
After a moment of looking at the clock, I lost interest and looked at the glass roof above, hoping to find an answer there. Dark clouds hung above the Institute, threatening to burst at any given moment.
''Maybe I'll come up with something during lunch.'' I told myself once again as I passed the large fountain near the entrance before leaving the Institute for the day.
The streets outside of the Institute were surprisingly crowded for such a cold day, of course, if it were to rain people would probably either scatter into the Institute or towards the large shopping area which was tactically built close to the Institute.
As if the Institute and the League didn't attract enough people, the large shopping area attracted, even more, people with its large variety of fashion, foods, entertainment and of course its hospitality. Not to mention that certain Champions chose to spend their free time here, making it all the more attractive for people to stop by.
I walked around a small forming crowd of people, trying to avoid getting recognized as 'The new Champion of the League'. I noticed that some of the people were talking to each other and taking pictures of something.
''Probably just a tourist group-'' My thoughts were interrupted as I accidentally walked into someone's back and fell to the ground because I was paying attention to the group.
''Like I was saying, my dear, she's been absent from joining us for a few days-'' The man talking staggered forward and turned around, the sight of me on the ground bringing a smile to his face before offering me his hand. ''Need a hand, Oliver?'' He asked chuckling.
''Like always Taric, your help is appreciated.'' I said taking his hand after fixing my scarf.
''No need to mention it, friend, just be more careful next time you never know who you might walk into.'' Taric said with a friendly smile.
''Hey Oli, how's it going?'' The person with Taric asked, clothed in her specially tailored winter coat with matching purse and shoes as her nine tails swirling around out of interest.
''Hey Ahri, you know how it goes, bored and hungry. The usual.'' I said, dusting off my coat before turning to the odd couple.
''Funny how you mention that we were about to get something to eat, wanna join?'' Ahri asked with a friendly smile. ''I mean I know my friends don't mind, do you Taric?''
''Not at all, the more the merrier.'' The Aspect said before turning to her. ''That does mean that business will have to wait for now.'' He whispered to her with a serious face.
''Really? Aw…'' Ahri said, her tails slowly coming to a hold and her ears beginning to droop. ''Fiiiiine, I know there's no bargaining when you give me the look.''
''Well then it's settled. Oliver? Would you like to join us and some friends?'' Taric asked with a bright smile as Ahri gave me a hopeful look.
''Sure why not? Anything is better than eating alone.'' I said with a shrug before being pulled along through the mall by Ahri, Taric and the small crowd following closely.
~ Poro's Pizzeria, Institute shopping district.
''Maybe this wasn't such a good idea…'' I told myself as I played with the last few remaining noodles on my plate.
For the last half hour, I had been sitting in a comfy booth with Ahri, Taric, Sona and Miss Fortune. The only problem was that aside from Taric, I didn't know anyone that well, sure I had laned with the maven before and sure I had laned against the bounty hunter but those were just simulations to test my abilities and power on the Rift, these women were the real deal!
''So… new guy are you always this quite or what? I've seen you be pretty mouthy on the Rift'' Miss Fortune asked, snapping me back to reality.
''What? Me? Oh eh… What were we talking about?'' I asked a little embarrassed. ''I wasn't paying attention, sorry Miss.''
After my apology, Ahri began to snicker before nearly losing it after my comment. Miss Fortune her face getting a bit red out of embarrassment.
''Did I say something wrong?'' I asked confused.
''Please, Oliver? Was it? Call me Sarah.'' Sarah said trying to muster a friendly smile while ignoring the fox her muffled snickering and giggling.
''Wait your name is Sarah? I thought your name was Miss… Sure that may sound weird but believe me when I say I've heard stranger.'' I said as Ahri fell onto Sona's lap, still laughing at the bounty hunter's growing embarrassment.
''Oh gods… Oh, gods make it stop this is too funny.'' Ahri nearly begged out of breath while Sona petted her head which was still resting on her lap, trying to recover from the laughing.
''You do this every time someone mistakes my name Ahri, it gets old really quickly you know…'' Sarah said with a bored sigh making the nine tailed fox sit up.
''Oh come on, at least let me have my fun… It's been so long since someone new joined the league.'' She said giving the bounty hunter her best puppy dog eyes.
''I mean basically you already had your fun since well… this happened and we can't really undo it.'' I cut in before the ladies could get into an argument. ''At least as far as I know that should be impossible.''
''Oh~ That's not what Kayle told me when we took care of you in Piltover.'' Ahri teased with a sly smile, making Sona and Sarah shift their gazes towards me.
''I think you're misinformed Ahri.'' I said quickly, trying to shift the attention to anywhere but me. ''I'm able to open portals not alter time…''
''That's not even close to the same thing Ahri, don't hype us up like that.'' Sarah said with a disapproving shake of her head as Sona and Taric joined in.
''Okay maybe I should be clearer, Oliver please explain to the lovely ladies and gentleman here how you came to this Piltover from your timeline.'' Ahri said resting her head in the palms of her hands with a victorious smile.
''Dammit…''
''*Sigh* You got me.'' I said giving up with a huff. ''I once opened a unique tear which pulled me to the future- Eh I mean present… To here. Please don't remind me, time travel is confusing.''
''Wow.'' Sarah said, mimicking Ahri by resting her head on one hand. ''That's some pretty impressive magic.''
''I wouldn't mind getting rid of it, after years of training and practicing I'm still not sure what I'm fully capable of…'' I admitted. ''Maybe I'll find out while fighting on the Rift.''
''Oh that reminds me, shouldn't your public release be in a few days? Right before the preparations for Snowdown start?'' Taric asked with his usual friendly smile.
''I can't wait to be honest. All these changes for testing purpose and changes are exhausting. Being busy constantly really screws with my schedule.'' I said, relaxing in my seat. ''Speaking of being busy, Taric have you seen Kayle around lately? It seems like she's absent more and more every day.''
''If I had to guess I would say that she's probably running errands for Kolminye.'' Taric said with a shrug. ''She's almost always busy helping around the Institute.'' After Taric's comment, Sona shook her head a couple of times, getting our attention.
''She hasn't been working around the Institute?'' I asked Sona who shook her head again in response. ''Well you seem to know more. Where is she then Sona?'' The question brought a smile to the maven's face before she shrugged, sticking out her tongue teasingly.
''Sona you tease!'' Sarah said, giving the blue-haired woman a playful shove.
''You know what I've heard?'' Ahri suddenly said, motioning everyone to come closer so she could share her secret. ''I've been hearing rumors that Kayle has been hanging out with Karthus.'' The fox whispered.
''That's absurd. Why would she? Karthus doesn't really seem like the type of person she would be around…'' Sarah said, Sona and Taric both agreeing with her.
''But think about it. Don't you think that maybe she's… nah.'' Ahri said thinking about something.
''Don't we think she's what?'' I asked confused. ''You aren't actually implying that she and him… Oh gods Ahri no! That's disgusting!''
''You know what, now that I've successfully grossed you out forget that I ever had that thought.'' Ahri said with a few giggles, her tails swirling out of enjoyment. ''Anyway I was just teasing, I haven't seen Kayle around either, so no need to worry lover boy.''
''Gee thanks that really answered my question guys, great help you all are…'' I said a bit bummed out.
''Why the long face Oliver? Are you still trying to get a hold of Kayle? You two seemed to do pretty fine during breaks.'' Taric asked, noticing my distress.
''We do… A bit.'' I said, avoiding the gossip-hungry stares from the other champions. ''It's just that-''
''You haven't asked her out or anything.'' Sarah said with a bored look on her face. ''Don't try to deny it, I've seen enough men in this situation.''
''I know right he's so lost. Heehee.'' Ahri giggled with a large grin as Sona and Taric glared at the two woman. ''Alright, alright chill with the angry looks.. Tell you what Oli, why don't you come to our Harrowing party this week and don't forget to bring a guest.'' Ahri said winking at me.
''How is that going to help?- Oh. OH. Got ya, I really appreciate it.'' I realized what the seductress was saying, the kind gesture bringing a smile to my face.
It seemed that all but one Champion were lost in conversation as Sona suddenly motioned to her wrist, trying to tell the other Champions something. ''What is it Sona?'' Sarah asked as Sona repeatedly tapped her wrist.
''Oh! I love charades!'' Ahri yelled excitedly. ''I go first! Lemme guess! *GASP* You're gay?!'' The nine tailed fox making the whole group of Champions facepalm.
After recovering from the stupidity of Ahri's comment Sona walked up to the Vastaya, grabbing her head and forcing it towards a clock in the restaurant before pointing at it.
''The time? Oh, for a second I thought- THE TIME!'' Ahri said getting up from her seat. ''Oh wait we're still on time… Daaaamn Sonaaaa I don't want to go back onto the Rift.'' Ahri whined.
''I guess I'm lucky I had my medical today and got a day off because of it so I think I'll hit the streets of Piltover, it's been so long.'' I said with a smug grin, making the Ionian seductress glare daggers at me.
''You be careful that the streets don't hit back dear friend.'' Taric said with a smile as we all got up from the booth we had been sitting at for a while now. ''We should be heading back to the Institute, for now, you take care.''
''I will. See you guys tonight during dinner?'' I asked the Aspect who immediately nodded his head before leaving the booth with the entourage of women. ''All right see you later.''
''Well that went better than expected.''
~ Institute of War, Mess hall. Hours later.
''So after knocking away all my enemies and sending my soldiers to battle The Aspect of War finished off every single one of them, resulting in a Pentakill.'' Azir explained excitedly as everyone around the table listening to a short summary of his most recent victory.
The story was met with positivity all around the table, well almost all around. ''So what? You did all the work and Pantheon profited from it, in the end, he walked away with the kills and the gold.'' Sivir said, her mouth filled with food. The act making Azir frown at the way his descendant acted.
''The battle was won, that is all that matters.'' Azir said, his mood turning sour. ''Sivir I'm concerned about your interests. All you seem to care about is a profit, that is not the way of Shurima's Heiress.''
''I've said it hundreds of times and I'll say it again. Coin is what makes the world go around birdbrain.'' Sivir said taking another bite of her steak.
''WELL I NEVE-'' Azir started before being interrupted by Taric who 'dropped' Bravado onto the dinner table, bringing a stop to the starting argument.
''Alright that's enough on the matter of Shurima's future, I think I speak for almost everyone in the mess hall when I say that we know how it goes.'' Taric said before putting his weapon away again. ''Now that we've discussed how everyone's matches were I'd like to know what you did Oliver. How was Piltover?''
''Well what can I say? The city hasn't changed much, everything seems the same.'' I said with a quick shrug. ''Well almost everything, it seems like there were some adjustments to 'The Tailwind' flying in the sky and more annoyingly Goldheart seems to have disappeared off of the face of Piltover.''
''That's the man that attempted to drug and rape Kayle right? My excuses for bringing it back up Kayle.'' Nasus asked before apologizing to the angel to my right.
''No need to excuse yourself Nasus.'' Kayle said calmly. ''He wasn't going to get far with that plan anyway.'' She added with a small smile.
''Thanks to me being around he didn't get far is what you meant to say.'' I added, earning a nod of gratitude from the angel.
*Bzzzt* *Bzzzt* *Bzzzt*
The conversation was interrupted by the intercom in the mess hall buzzing a few times before a excited female voice came through.
''Is this thing on?! Nice! Okay, everyone, I've received a request from Mordekaiser, The Iron Revenant, Bringer of eternal pain, death and suffering, yadda yadda.'' The summoner said uninterested trying to get to the important part.
''What was that?!'' An unamused Iron Revenant was clearly hearable in the background.
''N-Nothing Lord Mordekaiser!'' The Summoner quickly apologized making some of the Champions in the mess hall laugh at the stupidity of the Summoner. ''Anyway! Back to the announcement!''
''Ugh, give me that!'' The voice of the Deathsinger was clearly hearable as he grabbed the microphone from the Summoner. ''Eghem.''
''Mortals and immortals alike! Listen closely! Pentakill will be back next year with a new album and a new member! Are you interested in a sneak preview? Join us during the Institutes Harrowing celebration this week! Champions enter for free!'' Karthus said sounding more like his alter metal ego than his usual self. ''There you are my dear.'' He said handing the microphone back.
''Well then that was… Amazing!'' Kayle said excitedly. ''I can't believe we're finally getting a new album! Gods, it feels like it's been years!''
''Well you wouldn't be wrong, technically it has been three years- HOLD ON. You like Pentakill?!'' I asked out of surprise, the rest of the group around the table mimicking my surprise.
''Uh, yeah I do? Most people enjoy Pentakill's music! They're like the best band in Runeterra!'' Kayle explained. ''Gods it would be a dream come true to be in such a band.''
''Hmm, Kayle I didn't take you for the musical type. Well, maybe playing something like a harp but not like a metal musician.'' Taric said jokingly.
''Oh haha, very funny Mr. Gem knight.'' Kayle said shooting the Aspect a quick glare. The comment taking Taric by surprise.
''We agreed to never talk about that period of my life ever again.'' Taric said trying to keep his cool.
''What are they talking about?'' I asked the rest of the group of champions, all of them shrugging in confusion as the two argued over said period of Taric's career.
''Anyway! Yes, I do sing a little, as for the harp part I won't answer that statement.'' Kayle suddenly said, getting everyone's attention. ''When you live as long as I have you tend to pick up certain useless skills.''
''Well now I wouldn't call being a good singer a useless skill. Especially not if it's your voice, I could listen to that for hours.'' I said giving Kayle a dreamy look, making her a bit uncomfortable.
''Anyway it's been a nice dinner everyone but I have an appointment and I still have to prepare some things so if you'll excuse me.'' Kayle said getting up and taking her plate to the disposal before taking her leave.
The moment Kayle got up and turned her back to the group Taric pulled me closer. ''What are you doing? Go after her!'' He said with a hint of urgency in his voice.
''Why would I? She said she has an appointment…'' My question made the Aspect slap himself in the face out of annoyance.
''You said you wanted to spend more time with her didn't you?'' He asked after recovering from my cluelessness.
''Yes?''
''Then ask her out already!'' Taric said pointing after Kayle who was about to leave the mess hall.
''To where though?'' I asked the Aspect who pulled me up from the seat at the table in the mess hall and pushed me into the direction the angel was going.
''By the stars Oliver are you really this dense? Obviously, she likes Pentakill… Which means that…'' Taric stopped mid-sentence, hoping I would catch on.
''Hey I have an idea! I could ask her to that Pentakill concert!'' I said, the imaginary lightbulb above my head lighting up (way to late).
''I'm impressed you came up with that one all by yourself.'' Sivir commented with an amused grin and a slow clap. ''If I were you I'd hurry, Kayle left five minutes ago.''
''Thanks, Sivir! You're the best!'' I said before running out of the mess hall leaving behind a baffled Taric and a highly amused Sivir.
''H-How?!'' Taric said sitting back down.
''The life of a support is rough big guy, we don't deserve people like you.'' Sivir said letting her hand rest on the aspect's shoulder, the amused grin never leaving her face.
~ Institute of War.
''Kayle?! Wait up!'' I yelled through one of the many hallways in the institute, my attempt not having effect as the angel was nowhere to be found.
'' Crap... If I had an appointment where would I meet up? Wait! She had to prepare something! Maybe she's at her dorm!'' I thought to myself before opening up a tear into the lobby of the Institute.
The lobby was already nicely decorated for the Harrowing celebration which was coming up in a few days.
Cobwebs could be seen hanging from the rafters in the ceiling, some kind of enchantment hung around the lobby making a sort of black mist hang around the room, the usual lights were dimmed down and the large fountain in the lobby seemed to be spewing a red liquid instead of its regular crystal clear water.
''Spooky..'' I murmured while taking a quick look around the room.
''I know right.'' A voice called out from behind me, giving me quite the spook before I turned to it. ''Didn't mean to scare you, well at least not that badly.'' Kayle said while gliding down from the second floor.
''Very funny..''
''No need to turn sour.'' Kayle said tapping her feet a bit impatiently. ''I thought I heard you calling after me and when I turned the corner I saw one of your portals close behind me, next thing I know I see you having a look around the lobby.''
''Ah, right… about that…'' I began, awkwardly rubbing my neck. ''I eh… thought we could maybe go for a walk?''
''Real smooth dumbass.''
''I suppose.'' The judicator said, clearly confused. ''But you'll have to do with a short one to my dorm since I'm already on the clock.''
''Ohohoho, I see how it is.'' I said with an amused smile.
''Oliver.'' Kayle said clearly annoyed.
''Alright, alright, it was just a joke you should know that about me by now.'' I said raising my hands with a wide smirk. ''Hey wait up!'' I said quickly following Kayle who set the pace quite high.
''So is there any reason why you wanted to walk with me?'' She asked, her interests peaked.
''I just wanted to ask if you'd be up for an eh.. date?'' I asked carefully ''You know since I finally got to adjust to the League and all that finally passed.''
''…''
''I was thinking since you like Pentakill so much maybe you'd like to join me for that sneak preview in a few days…'' I said nervously as we walked towards the female dorms. ''I've also been asked to come to this Harrowing party and I'm allowed to bring a guest so if you want we could maybe-''
''I actually have something very important coming up during Harrowing night so I can't go to that party.'' Kayle quickly cut me off, still not facing me. ''I'm sorry Oliver.''
''That's… fine. What about the concert? It's going to be early in the evening.'' I asked with a tiny spark of hope.
''I suppose so…'' Kayle said deep in thought. ''*Sigh* screw it, sure we could spend some time during the concert I suppose.'' She said as we reached the female floor.
''Really?! That's great! What time do you want to meet up? You know since you're busy and all that.'' I asked out of delight, not noticing The Maven of the Strings standing next to the door of Kayle's room.
''Just go to the concert. I'll be there.'' Kayle said with a friendly smile. ''Now if you'll excuse me, it seems like I'm late for my appointment.'' She said pointing towards Sona who gave a friendly wave towards the both of us.
My eyes darted from the angel to the musician and back a few times before laying the connection. ''Oh! Right! Your appointment, sorry I completely forgot.'' I said a bit embarrassed as Sona grabbed Kayle's hand and dragged her away from me.
''Sorry for the short talk Oliver, next time will be a better one.'' Kayle said before disappearing with Sona into a different room down the hall.
''I'm sure it will.'' I thought to myself, an amazing feeling bringing a unnoticed smile to my face.
~ Institute of War, courtyard, Harrowing night
Kayle watched as countless people tried to get a clear view of the large podium that was built in front of the Institute, a nervous grin plastered on her face while she waited for Oliver.
''I wonder what he thinks of me when he sees me like this... Would he notice? Probably not.'' The last thought shooting through her head creating a bit of calmness before her first performance.
''Kayle is that you?'' A familiar asked with a bit of confusion.
''Oliver you're finally here, for a moment I thought you wouldn't show up.'' She said holding back a few laughs at how ridiculous he looked.
Oliver was wearing his regular Champion attire minus the armor and weapons and with some added spiked bracelets matching the heavy metal vibe hanging around the stage.
''Yeah, yeah I look like a clown, but Holy you look amazing! Where did you get this outfit? And who did your hair?! You look like you would fit right in on stage with the band!'' Oliver complimented excitedly.
What he was saying was rather true, but then again she needed to fit in tonight to show them that she had what it takes.
''You like it? I asked a Summoner for some help designing the clothes since the jacket needs to be open from the back for my wings to fit through and all…'' Kayle asked a bit flustered by the wave of compliments.
''You asked Rose, didn't you? She knows how to design outfits alright-''
Oliver got interrupted by the sound of instruments coming from the stage, the crowd began to cheer excitedly as a red mist began to cover the stage and matching red lights began to shoot through the crowd.
''MORTALS AND IMMORTALS ALIKE, ARE. YOU. READY.'' A voice on stage called out through the mist covering the stage making the crowd roar in excitement. ''TO ROCK.'' The crowd became louder and louder as the mist cleared and the band stood on stage before beginning to play 'Lightbringer'
''Isn't this amazing?!'' Kayle yelled with a large smile trying to make herself hearable over the music and the crowd while completely rocking out to the metal tunes of the band.
~ Pentakill concert, Harrowing night.
''YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!'' Karthus screamed marking the end of yet another song played by the band.
The crowd in anticipation, all of them hoping that the new songs for the new album would be next, some of the people in the crowd even chanting that they wanted more.
''SILENCE MORTALS!'' Karthus's voice easily penetrated the sound of the whole crowd. ''Now that I have all your attention I have an announcement!'' He said almost out of character. ''Pentakill will take a five-minute break to make sure that everything is ready for our next 'special' performance!'' The statement hyping the crowd up even more as Pentakill disappeared off stage.
''Did you hear that Kayle? They'll probably start playing the new songs next.'' Oliver said, noticing Kayle looking around the courtyard. ''Hey? You okay?''
''Yeah... I really am but.. eh... I might have to leave.'' Kayle said, guilt marking her words. ''Don't get me wrong Oli-''
''I thought you were a giant Pentakill fan? Why leave now of all time?! Aren't you enjoying yourself?'' He asked alarmed.
''Oliver listen!'' Kayle said getting annoyed by the man's rambling. ''It's not you, I'm actually very happy that you asked me to come but…''
''But what? Tell me why you want to leave!'' Oliver asked a bit hurt.
''I-It's not like I'm not coming back.'' Kayle tried to make clear. ''It's just… L-Lady troubles… Do you understand what I mean?'' Kayle asked getting a bit embarrassed at the dumb excuse she made up on the spot.
''Oh. OH. Shit, I'm sorry! Go! Quickly!'' He said matching her embarrassment.
As the two parted Pentakill began playing one of their new songs accompanied by a few seconds of an epic orchestra to herald the beginning of the song.
''I have to hurry, crap, crap, crap..'' Kayle mentally scolded herself trying to make her way backstage which proved to be a challenge due to the crowd rocking out to one of Pentakill's new songs.
''You're finally here! I was afraid you weren't going to show!'' A petite summoner with large glasses said as she clapped her hands in excitement. ''What took you so long? The rest of the band was starting to think that you weren't coming anymore.''
''I got held up Summoner Rose, I have a social life as well..'' Kayle said with a huff.
''You? A social life? I don't think so. All you ever seem to do is work for Kolminye, unless…'' A grin formed on Rose her face. ''Were you out on a date with someone?''
''Indeed I was Summoner. It is none of your concern.'' Kayle said turning her back to the Summoner and stretching her white wings for her.
''This might feel a bit weird, but I'm going to enchant your wings to make them look more 'metal''' The Summoner snorted at her own joke while working her magic. ''So you and Oliver finally went and did something together?'' She suddenly asked surprising the judicator.
''Wha? How did you?'' Kayle asked out of surprise.
''Oh please like it isn't obvious that he likes you, he acts like a teenager around you, constantly trying to impress you but never asking you out.'' The Summoner said while grabbing some shoulder armor and placing it on Kayle her leather attire.
''He really does act like that doesn't he?'' Kayle asked chuckling lightly. ''It's kinda cute..''
''Now's not the time to be thinking about such things! Here! I call it 'The Finishing Touch''' Rose said opening up a crate with a large weapon inside. ''You'll be able to use it as a microphone but be careful it is still a sword!'' She warned as the angel inspected the weapon.
''Impressive.''
''No time for complimenting and being amazed! It's your time to shine! GO!'' The Summoner said, giving Kayle a few shoves, motioning her to fly into the air. ''And good luck!''
(I highly recommend listening to the 'Mortal Reminder' music video for this next part, it will hopefully enhance the reading experience)
~ Pentakill concert, Harrowing night.
After a short moment, the orchestra stopped playing and the ground shook, a green portal opening in the middle of the stage.
Although the band was nowhere to be seen, the faint sounds of drums being smashed and a bass being played could be heard in the distance, the crowd going wild as Karthus floated out of the portal, hovering high above the crowd before moving his staff from left to right creating a huge wall of fire which blocked the stage for a few seconds.
Blinded by hate brought by the fall
As I swear death to all
You will feel my vengeance
As I claim your mortal soul
As the fire died down and the smoke cleared, two other members of had joined the lich on stage, Yorick was on the right of Karthus, playing his bass, rocking wildly from left to right. In the far left corner, a huge set of drums could be seen being smashed by Olaf, every hit on the drums making the ground shake.
I will punish and destroy
Those responsible for this ploy
I will seek a thousand deaths
I will bring a thousand years of war
Most of the crowd was too amazed and distracted by the visuals and performance playing in front of their eyes, they barely noticed that with every hit of Olaf's drums, two large pillars seemed to be growing out of the ground further and further until they were large enough for a giant to fit in-between.
Within seconds of the pillars reaching their maximum height, Karthus turned to them, his book opened and green magic flowing around his hand before aiming his glowing hand towards the two now giant pillars, creating a sort of portal.
All that I had taken away
My home is gone, and my loved ones slain
For every sleep claims a piece of me
Every waking moment, every single dream
The ground shook more violently every two seconds or so. When suddenly a giant figure wielding a huge guitar passed through, a way smaller figure sitting on his shoulder armor, playing her Etwahl to speed up the large figure.
As the masses came
Like a shadow through this land
They laid siege to all we ever had
I stood strong, I was honor bound
I stand defiant, I stand ever proud
I am the chosen
I am the guardian, the guardian
The duo split up and took their respective places on stage, Sona floating next to Karthus and Olaf, still playing instrument and Mordekaiser underneath Karthus since he seemed way too large to stand on the edge of the stage.
Now that all of Pentakill was present, Olaf began to increase his smashing on the drums, the shaking of the ground almost rivaling Mordekaiser's footsteps from just a moment before. The lights above the stage flickering due to the violent drumming, making it seem like there was a lightning storm above the stage.
Now I seek the blood of those
Who claimed the innocent
I will hunt the enemy to the last
I will banish and rejoice
The final breath of foes
You will see what you have made
You will see what I have finally become
All that I had laid to the waste
My spirit broken and just memories remain
For every day claims a piece of me
Every waking hour claims my inner peace
As Olaf continued rocking the drums the floor of the stage began to crumble and shatter as a new stage made completely of rock began to elevate the members of the band. Three large platforms rose upwards.
One platform carrying Mordekaiser who was focussed on hitting every note perfectly, one carrying Yorick who stood on the edge of the platform, hanging towards the edge, moving his bass from left to right and one carrying Olaf who was busy nearly destroying his drums.
The platforms began to reach their peak they connected with one another again, creating the Pentakill logo with red glowing whisps for eyes behind the members of the band as Sona and Karthus floated upwards to retake the same formation on the new stage.
My inner peace!
Every now and again a winged silhouette flew over the crowd almost unnoticed due to the spectacle that was happening before them all. A few eyes in the crowd turned to the sky, trying to spot the silhouette but failing due to the blinding lights above the stage.
As the masses came
Like a shadow through this land
They laid siege to all we ever had
I stood strong, I was honor bound
I stand defiant, I stand ever proud
I am the chosen
I am the guardian, the guardian
Karthus started his final verse, signaling the end of the song nearing, but the performance wasn't over just yet. Sona pulled a string on her Etwahl creating an extra sharp tune making magic flow around Yorick and Mordekaiser who leaned against each other back to back, carrying each other's weight as Mordekaiser played a solo on his guitar.
On top of the stage stood the winged silhouette and right after Karthus finished his final verse, the last bit of music was completely muted by a loud,
*CLANG.*
A large red sword embedded itself into the last remaining free space on stage before a figure dropped next to it, grabbing a hold of it and raising herself to her feet. There standing proudly before the roaring crowd stood Kayle with her bandmates, all of them covered in a bit of sweat from performing.
''Pentakill welcomes its newest warrior of rock, a new guardian of metal is born today!'' Karthus yelled down towards the crowd, his voice once again booming over the excited crowd.
''And now that the stage is more fitting of the best band in Valoran, I say we play one last song!'' Mordekaiser said, his comment getting the crowd even more excited now that the newest member of the band had finally been revealed.
~ Pentakill concert, Harrowing night
Pentakill finished 'Mortal Reminder' a second time on stage, this time without the whole redecoration of the stage which I was sure had at least flattened one Yordle in the crowd. Then again this time Kayle backed Karthus up with her vocals and gave the crowd a better look at her now metal wings.
I had to admit that she looked amazing in the outfit, the metal wings only adding to the whole outfit. ''Maybe I should ask Morde if I could join Pentakill...'' I thought to myself.
''Who would want you as a musician? Noone that's who... You're a leech, DeWitt.'' Hush whispered in the back my head, annoying me a bit.
''You know I didn't take you out of that box just so you can belittle me...'' I argued with the voice. ''Also stop calling me a leech, I don't do such things.''
''A liar and a leech I see.'' Hush mocked with an amused chuckle.
''If anything you are leeching off of me, not the other way around!'' I yelled angerly to no one, receiving some confused glances from the people around me before someone brushed my shoulders rather harshly. ''Watch where you're going.''
''Move or I will move you myself you- Oh it's you.'' Morgana said with an enraged look on her face.
''What's that supposed to mean?'' I asked her, making her stop dead in her tracks and turn back to me.
''I bet you had something to do with all this! You encouraged her to do this, didn't you?'' Morgana snarled at me, pointing a finger at my chest. ''One of the very few things I enjoyed in this gods-forsaken world and she ruins it.'' She said huffing before walking away, leaving the scene muttering curses meant for Kayle and now me as well for some reason.
I turned back to the stage to listen to the last bit of the chorus which got muffled by a large explosion of flames in the background which split open the large Pentakill symbol behind the band, revealing a demonic looking portal for them to step through.
The crowd goes wild as the members of the band all stood on stage one last time before the undead members turned towards the portal and walked through, leaving the stage, followed by Sona and Olaf, leaving Kayle to fly over the crowd one more time, almost as if she was trying to spot someone in the crowd before she also flew through the portal.
''I guess I'll be going to that party all alone...'' I told myself as I snuck one last glance towards the stage. ''At least she seemed to enjoy herself up there.'' I thought to myself before passing through a tear into the Institute.
I'm baaaaaaaaaaaaaack.
Who? Emerald. Who? You know that one guy who tries to troll people and then gets trolled by his own lazyness and his internet company? Oh right that guy.
EYOOOOOOOOOOO, Emerald back at it again with a new chapter for AAT! Extra metally and spoopy and stuff...
I love how I'm going to start this AN off as yet another appology (Like you guys aren't sick of hearing that stuff already), This chapter was meant for the Harrowing, but life is a bitch and I had a really hard time getting it out before Halloween. Then it was November and my birthday came up plus some REALLY important school work (Like getting a diploma important) and then I had spare time but some family stuff came up so TL;DR Halloween in December.
Anyway I am going to try and finish the Harrowing stuff before the end of December since it just wouldn't be right to celebrate Halloween in January (or would it? :thinking:).
After that it will be some post snowdown stuff and some really important thing that will go down for Kayle and Oliver (I'm super serious like this is going to make you hate me for putting them through it).
Quick note on the side, what did you (the reader) think of the change of in this chapter? Was it nice? Was it not? Give me some feedback on it because I don't know how to feel about it rn :/
So... Yeah... I just want to thank you guys so much for being patient and for nicely waiting on my dumbass to release this chapter, I kinda lost interest in writing for a really long time but I finally had a blast writing this and I think I'm ready to go back to the drawing board to pump out more chapters for you guys, I'm really sorry for the long wait but I needed time and tbh, I might need more but for now I feel a lot more comfortable writing my stories again.
So thank you, everyone reading this for taking your time and hopefully you enjoyed it!
I'll try my best to not take this long ever again, but I won't make any ballzy promises like the last one either since I'm not sure if I'm going to put the story on hiatus for a while or not but for now,
Until next time!
Emerald out!