Chapter 13
Cosmodrome
Forgotten Shore
"Well, I guess this is goodbye." Tobias noted with a rather glum expression as he looked at each of the members of fireteam Salamander.
"Oh don't be like that man, we'll get back together at some point." Axel pointed out to him as he gave Tobias a slap on the shoulder.
"It's been a blast though." Carmen said with a grin as she shared a fist bump with her fellow Hunter Sheryl.
"You got that right." Axel added with a nod of agreement. They had been together for a little over a week now, completing bounties, training and getting to know one another. It had been a great time to relax now that there weren't any imminent threats, allowing them to have a bit of fun as they worked. Not to mention Tobias had learned so much from each of them. But this week came to an end with a transmission from Zavala requesting that Tobias and Carmen return to the Tower. Standing on the ramp of Carmen's old Arcadia class jump ship, the group of five Guardians shared some final words with one another.
"Hey, Tobias." Zeke said as he motioned for Tobias to follow him as he separated himself from the group for them to speak privately.
"What's up?" Tobias asked as he caught up to him.
"I never got to mention this, but it's a damn shame what happened to Briggs on Venus." Zeke said softly. "There was no one I respected more than him. In fact, you could say that he was always my goal. That's why I started my own fireteam. And when I think of Undaunted, you can't really picture them without Briggs."
Tobias gave a nod of agreement. Seeing both Diana and Niko so torn up after losing him...it was clear that Briggs was the heart and soul of this fireteam. Without him, they were trying to reestablish their identity.
"He left some mighty big shoes to fill," Zeke noted before looking directly at Tobias with a small grin. "But I think you got what it takes."
"To do what?" Tobias asked, raising an eyebrow at him.
"To lead Undaunted."
It took a moment for that statement to settle into Tobias' mind. That sounded so ridiculous!"
"That's what you may think, and that's exactly what I thought when I first started my fireteam. But if there's one thing I've learned, its that people gravitate toward a good leader." Zeke looked over at his teammates who were laughing alongside Carmen. "The two of them said they'd follow me no matter because they've seen my body of work. They trust me that much. It takes time to prove yourself, especially to your teammates. So don't let any opportunities slip by."
The members of fireteam Salamander has seen Tobias pursue Carmen to offer her some comfort. They didn't say a word about it, but they knew for a fact that Tobias was genuine and sincere. It was clear to them that even though he didn't see himself as a leader, he still took care of his teammates.
"Keep up the good work Tobias, and hopefully we'll get to meet up out in the field again." Zeke said to Tobias as he passed by him, giving him a pat on the shoulder.
Tobias straightened up a bit as he looked toward the group of Guardians as they spoke to Carmen. Was he capable of becoming a leader? Could he lead a group of powerful Guardians like those that made up fireteam Undaunted? Only time could tell. Shrugging his shoulders, Tobias joined the group as well, just as Carmen disappeared further into the ship to begin the process for a departure.
"I can't thank you guys enough. Next time we're all in the City, let's have some drinks." Tobias said to them as the ramp began to rise, taking him up into the main chamber of the ship.
"We'll hold you to it!" Axel shouted in return as they all waved. The ramp closed up completely, sealing the ship that was now ready for takeoff. Joining Carmen in the cockpit, Tobias looked out the windows to see the three of them giving them one final wave as the ship began to rise, beginning their return trip to the Tower.
Hanger
"Carmen, Tobias, over here!" Niko called out as he waved his arms over his head. The duo that had just exited Carmen's ship quickly journeyed over to the Hunter that had been eagerly waiting for their arrival.
"Did you get a call from Commander Zavala too?" Tobias asked as they approached Niko.
"Yeah, this morning actually. He told me that you guys would be coming in, so I came to meet you here." Niko explained as he took the lead, weaving through the crowded space until they arrived at the exit of the Hunter.
"Do you know what he wants?" Carmen asked as she looked up at Niko who towered over her.
"Not even the slightest. But in other news, I heard you've been assigned to our fireteam." Niko said as he shot Carmen a grin. "It's nice to have you."
"Oh, right. Thank you." Carmen said slowly, a bit surprised. She had forgotten that she was part of their fireteam. She had never really had an opportunity to work with other Guardians, so this thought of a team was still very foreign to her.
"I haven't seen you guys in about a week, what have you been up to?" Niko inquired as he studied them. Obviously, Tobias had been busy considering he was dressed like a Warlock now as opposed to what he wore when during their first few weeks together.
"We spent pretty much the entire time in the Cosmodrome." Tobias replied.
"Yup, knocking around some baddies." Carmen added with a nod of agreement.
"That's what I like to hear." Niko commented with a grin of approval.
"And I gave Tobias some tips about Gunslingers." Carmen said, causing Niko to raise his eyebrows.
"So he's not the one hit wonder anymore?" Niko asked excitedly, causing Carmen to burst into a fit of laughter at the nickname. She knew immediately what Niko was talking about.
"Oh, not this again." Tobias muttered as the two Hunters laughed at his expense.
Tobias wasn't great at channeling Solar Light despite the aid that he had received from Carmen, so he was only able to fire one shot when wielding the famed Golden Gun. Niko, Sheryl and Carmen all tormented him for how unpolished his skills were as a Gunslinger.
"And how about yourself Niko, how have you been?" Tobias asked, changing the subject. The last time he had seen him was at the memorial where they had been paying their respects to Briggs-6. Niko though gave a chuckle in response as he looked back at Tobias.
"Doin' just fine. It was nice taking a personal day." He replied with a grin.
"Guardians don't get time off." Carmen shot back at him.
"Veterans do. Know your place rookie." Niko retorted, causing Carmen to turn away from him with a huff.
"And what about Diana, is she okay?" Tobias pressed, feeling a little nervous as he asked about her. He had yet to hear a word from her or her Ghost since the memorial.
"I haven't had a chance to speak to her yet, but I wouldn't be worried if I were you Tobias. She's strong." Niko stated as their eyes met for a moment. Niko flashed him a bright grin to dispel any, doubts Tobias might have had.
Entering the Hall of Guardians, the trio soon arrived at the quarters where the Vanguard Mentors were usually stationed. But right now Zavala was the only Mentor stationed here, and he was completely alone. Diana was no where to be found.
"Ah, it's good to see you all made it." Zavala noted as he looked up at the group. "I trust that you all are well rested after our battle?"
"I know I am." Niko admitted shamelessly. He had spent a majority of this past week sleeping in his room. In fact, today was the first time that he had come outside.
"Excuse me Commander, but did you speak to Diana already?" Tobias asked asked as he looked around in search of the missing Warlock.
"Well I had a hunch that she wouldn't take the news I have too kindly, so I arranged to speak with her before you all arrived. She already went on her way." Zavala explained with a stoic expression as always.
"Is she, alright?"
"She seemed fine to me" Zavala said with a nod. Tobias exhaled softly in response though. He still wanted to see for himself though.
"So what's then news that would put her down in the dumps?" Niko asked curiously. He hadn't seen Diana become upset, ever actually. Not until the House of Wolves resurfaced at least.
"Right, let's get down to business. The news of your heroics at the Battle of Twilight Gap already got back to the Reef. To the Queen in fact. She has stated herself that she is indebted to you all for the defeat of Skolas, so she has requested your presence in the Reef." Zavala explained, surprising all of them.
"Are you serious?!" Carmen blurted out in shock. "The Awoken have never invited anyone into the Reef!"
"They opened the Reef to the Guardians for us to assist them with the incident involving the House of Wolves. But that wasn't exactly an invitation for us to come in." Zavala replied. "They've always kept themselves isolated."
"Yeah, they're a bunch of hermits." Niko added, earning a laugh from Carmen.
"But they've made an exception. For defeating Skolas, the Queen has prepared a banquet to honor all of you in your efforts against the House of Wolves. Our departure is scheduled for later this afternoon for us to arrive in time for the banquet." Zavala went on.
"This is going to be awesome!" Carmen exclaimed excitedly.
"Hold on there squirt, who said you're comin' with us?" Niko asked her.
"I said so!" Carmen shot back at him. "There's no way I'm missing out on going into the Reef. I want to see what it's like there at least once."
"Can she come with us Zavala?" Niko asked as he looked up toward the Titan Vanguard.
"I never specified who makes up Undaunted. They're expecting four of you, as well as myself." Zavala explained, causing Niko to frown just a bit.
"So she's getting Briggs' spot," Niko noted with pursed lips.
Carmen became quiet at this. Obviously, she never had an opportunity to meet the previous leader of fireteam Undaunted, but she could feel the guilt gripping her heart at the fact that she had claimed his spot at a banquet to honor his team. With a glance at Carmen Niko caught sight of her expression and tactfully made an addition to his last statement.
"But don't think much of it squirt," Niko said as he placed a hand on her shoulder. "Briggs was no good at parties anyway. But I'm sure you know how to bring the house down."
"Oh, you have no idea." She replied as she flashed him a grin.
Tobias was silent as the two Hunters conversed now that he understood why Zavala spoke to Diana privately. Diana had been exiled from the Reef and yet she had just received an invitation to be honored by the Queen. If she returned to her home, would she be regarded as the hero she was, or would she still be viewed as an exile?
"Diana?" Tobias called out, knocking on the metal door of her room. He wasn't sure what her current state was, but he could only hope that she would answer him at the very least. But to his surprise, the door slid open, revealing the Warlock whom he hadn't seen at all in roughly a week.
A moment of silence passed between them as Tobias stared at her, searching for anything that was out of the ordinary. But she seemed just fine. Just like the last time he had seen her.
"Hello?" Diana said to him, snapping him out of his thoughts. "What's up Tobias?"
"Are you...okay?" He asked her tentatively.
"Of course I'm fine, why wouldn't I be?" She asked him in return. Tobias narrowed his eyes in response. He didn't know enough about Diana to figure out if she was putting up a front for him or not.
"Nothing is bothering you?" Tobias pressed, but she shook her head at him.
"Tobias, I'm fine. Trust me."
"So you're cool with going back to the Reef?"
"You better believe I am." She stated almost indignantly.
"But what about being banished an all of that jazz?"
"All that jazz?" She repeated with a laugh. She had never heard someone say something like that before. "I'm not going in with any expectations. The only thing I want to do there is let the Queen know that even though she threw me out, I didn't turn my back on them when they needed help."
Tobias stared into her eyes now after this last statement. Her gaze was unwavering and firm. Niko's words echoed in his mind. 'She's strong.'
"I just don't want to see you get hurt." Tobias revealed although some part of him said such a thing was unlikely.
"I can take care of myself Tobias." She said cheekily, deciding that it was time they talk about something else. "Besides, I heard from Ikora that you went out on your first patrol in the Cosmodrome, did everything work out?"
"I'm not dead, so I guess it went pretty well," Tobias replied, getting a giggle from her. "We did team up with fireteam Salamander so I got to train under them for some time. I can already tell I'm going to have to practice a lot if I'm going to be as good as the rest of you."
Diana felt a pang of guilt as she remembered that Tobias had been entrusted to Undaunted. It was sort of experiment for the Vanguard considering Tobias' significance, but they threw him directly into the fire to see how he would develop as a Guardian. Instead of making steady progress with their tutelage, Tobias had been neglected throughout the encounter with the House of Wolves. He had even proven himself to be a capable fighter by dueling Skolas and living, but his training was still pushed aside to mourn the loss of Briggs-6.
Clearly, he understood the significance of this loss to Undaunted, but Diana knew that they could no longer brush aside his training. Great expectations would be heaped onto Tobias' shoulders in the future, and it was their responsibility to prepare him for this.
"I have to apologize, Tobias." Diana said, pinching her nose with an expression of dismay.
"For what?" Tobias asked curiously, his brow furrowed in confusion.
"Ikora and the Speaker trusted us to train you, and we've done next to nothing as your mentors. I feel bad knowing that right now we've done nothing but hold you back." Diana explained, recalling the discussion she and Ikora had with the Speaker. Tobias was too valuable to be charging into the danger untrained.
"Well I mean, that couldn't be helped really. We had to fight the Fallen, and then there was the whole traveling through time thing. It's not like we really had a chance to just stop everything and train." Tobias said, causing Diana to shake her head at him.
"I don't think you get it, Tobias. You were amazing fighting Skolas, like nothing I've ever seen before. And when you think about it, you were only scratching the surface of what you're truly capable of. Don't you want to know just how strong you really are?" Diana asked him, causing Tobias to look up in thought. He really didn't have an answer to this question.
How strong could he become...? He had no idea. When he was fighting Skolas, it felt as though he had an endless well to draw power from. And with this strength coursing through him, he fought that Fallen Kell to a standstill. Yet when he went down to the Cosmodrome, he was missing easy targets with just about any weapon. There was no consistency to it. He still had to hone his skills.
"I do want to know. And I have time now, don't I?" He asked her with a very small smile.
"That you do. But you never know what could happen in the future. We've wasted enough time as it is, so as soon as we get back from the Reef, your training is priority number one for Undaunted."
Asteroid Belt
Vestian Outpost
"Whoa." That was all Tobias and Carmen could manage to say as they exited, stepping out onto the large hanger of the Awoken outpost. Looking back at the astonishing scenery that they had journeyed through to reach this point, Tobias silently wondered how the Awoken could call this home. It felt like they were living in a graveyard.
Thousands of wrecked ships, varying in size, floating aimlessly in pieces, creating a barrier around the Awoken sanctuary. It was eerie to observe, even with the starry heavens surrounding them.
The Vestian Outpost was one of the many locations guarded the Reef, constantly checking to ensure that there were no invaders. And if there ever was a threat, they would be the first to notice. This was just a pit stop on Undaunted's journey into the Reef. This outpost was as far as they were allowed to go on their own. From this point forward, they would be escorted by the Royal Guard.
"Whoa!" Now it was Niko's turn as he elbowed Tobias' side, getting his attention.
"What?" Tobias asked as Niko began to nod toward the approaching guards. Two of them were Awoken Paladins, dressed in skin-tight jumpsuits with a garb around their waste. Their faces were concealed within their helmets, but the third guard at the center of this group had her face revealed. And it was clear why she immediately caught Niko's attention. She had dazzling scarlet hair, although her most notable feature was the eye patch she wore over her left eye.
"Check her out." Niko whispered to him as he admired her figure, causing Tobias to roll his eyes.
"We've been expecting you Guardians." She stated as she and her contemporaries came to stop in front of them. "We haven't met in person yet, but I've worked with you all throughout the encounter with the Wolves."
"Ah, you must be Petra." Zavala said as he stepped toward her.
"Indeed." Petra replied as she eyed Zavala. She never would've thought that one of the Awoken would be leading the Vanguard. And yet the Commander of the Guardians stood before her as one of her own people. "We are grateful for you efforts Guardians, the Awoken are indebted to you."
"So when is this banquet with the Queen?" Niko asked as Petra motioned for them to follow her. On the opposite side of the hanger was Petra's personal ship, the Hildian Seeker, which had been waiting for them.
"It's tomorrow." Petra replied.
"Wait, so then why did we come here today then?" Carmen inquired.
"You're all going to be in the presence of the Awoken Queen, as well as the highest nobility of the Awoken. There are preparations that must be done for each of you before you can be in the presence of our Queen." Petra explained as she led them into her ship. The Guardians shared a glance with one question on their minds.
"What kind of preparations?"
4 Vesta
Vestian Web
Palace
"Oh, my, God!" Carmen exclaimed as she laid face down on a massage bed while a pair of Awoken attendants worked tirelessly on her. They were massaging her back, loosening all of the tense muscles she had as well as coating her skin in various oils that only seemed to numb her further. She had never been so pampered before in her life!
In the adjacent room, Niko, Zavala and Tobias were together going through the same rigorous treatment as well.
"This is the life man!" Niko hollered as he sunk further into his seat, enjoying a foot massage he was receiving as a warm-up for what was to come. "Right Zavala?"
"I suppose." Zavala noted as he glanced at the attendant that was seated beside him, silently tending to his fingernails, polishing them and moisturizing his hands.
"Chin up Zavala, it's not often you get to have a lady that wants to be around you-"
"Watch it Niko." Zavala interjected as he shot him a glare. The attendant beside him stifled a laugh at Niko's comment.
"Tobias, are you okay over there?" Niko called out as he glanced across the room. There was a large heated bath on the other side of the room which Tobias was laying face down in, soaking in the steamy water. There wasn't an ounce of tension within. He couldn't believe how relaxed he felt at the moment, and he could only wish that he could remain like this forever. Was this how all the Awoken lived?
Diana was silent as she sat on the large queen size bed within the private chamber she had received. Behind her was a brilliant view of the starry surroundings, the scenery that she had been raised alongside. She was back home, and yet she wasn't...
She had never yearned to return to the Reef, but the thought had crossed her mind several times. And now she was back yet...why did she fell so foreign?
There was a knock on the entrance of her chamber, causing Diana to sigh as she waved a hand over the back of her neck. Her helmet reactivated, quickly concealing her head as Diana rose up from her bed. Why was she hiding her identity? She knew why she had agreed to return to the Reef, and yet a part of her was telling her to run.
"Enter." Diana said softly, causing the doors to part, revealing none other than Petra Venj. "Can I help you?"
"You don't have to try hiding from me, I know it's you Diana." Petra stated after she had stepped in, allowing the doors the shut behind her.
"How...how did you know?" Diana asked as she looked up at the woman who chuckled in response.
"Diana, I couldn't forget my own cousin." Petra replied as she approached the bed and took a seat beside Diana. Sighing inwardly, Diana shut off her helmet, revealing he face to her Petra. "You haven't changed a bit."
"So, how long did you know?"
"I've been watching you for a long time Diana. I remember when your former commander came to the Reef in search of the Black Garden. I wanted to know what group of fools would want to go in there. Imagine my surprise when I find out one of those fools was you, my own cousin." Petra said as she gave Diana a small smile. "I've seen all of your heroics since then Diana."
"So the Queen knows?" Diana assumed as she took a glance at Petra who spared her a nod. "What did she say?"
"Nothing. So I took the opportunity to suggest that you be reinstated into the Royal Guard." Petra continued, causing Diana's head to snap up with a look of shock.
"Why would you do that?" Diana exclaimed.
"Your hunch about the Wolves was correct all along. They conceded to the Queen at the end of the Reef Wars as a plot to assassinate her. You were right. She has acknowledged that."
"Wait, what?"
"As in, she said she'll take my proposal into consideration." Petra stated, leaving Diana dumbfounded. There was actually a chance of her returning to her former life? Was this a dream?
The night of the banquet arrived, and Tobias looked at him in the mirror with a smirk, tugging at the collar of his shirt to loosen it a bit. He had dressed as a Guardian, he had worn casual clothing, but he had never worn a tuxedo before. And he looked good!
He was practically glowing from all of the baths and skin treatment he had received. Every inch of his body had been cleaned until it was deemed flawless for the Queen. He was presentable.
"Come in!" Tobias called out after hearing a knock on the door. The doors opened up, revealing Niko who Tobias' hadn't seen yet today. Tobias had to a do a double take first after spotting the Hunter. Then he stopped to stare at him, allowing his jaw to drop.
The thick beard and long locks were gone. There was just the shadow of Niko's beard, showing his well-defined cheekbones which had been hidden for so long. And most of his hair had been cut off as well. The sides and back were faded out while the top of Niko's hair was left a bit longer, although it was gelled back save for a few strands that fell down in front of his forehead. And just like Tobias, he was dressed for the occasion, although he decided to go without the jacket, preferring just the vest.
"Damn Tobias." Niko said with a grin as he sized him up.
"Dude, you look awesome." Tobias replied as they gave each other a high five.
"Yeah I know. Like three of the attendants asked me out to dinner tomorrow." Niko said as he stepped over to the mirror to admire his new appearance. "If I had known fixing myself up would get me in with the ladies, I would've done this a long time ago!"
The banquet hall was within a sealed chamber, with a small connecting chamber where Zavala and Diana waited on the rest of their teammates. There was a pair of guards waiting by the entrance to the banquet hall, ready to give them access once the five of them were together.
"Wow Commander, you clean up nice." Diana said to Zavala. She had only ever seen him clad in his armor as a Titan. Seeing him dressed in an expensive suit was a quite a different light to see him.
"Thank you Diana." He replied, clearing his throat a bit. Zavala was uncomfortable, and he was certain that it was obvious. It had been years since he had gone out without any kind of armor on him, and it was feeling that he knew he wouldn't be able to get used during this banquet.
"How do ladies walk in these things?!" Carmen exclaimed as she stumbled into the smaller chamber, clearly struggling to keep her balance in the heels she wore. The only thing she had ever worn on her feet were her boots. She never had to think about keeping her balance in the slightest. But moving in heels was one of the greatest challenges she had ever faced.
"Wow, you look so pretty Carmen." Diana said as she and Zavala quickly approached the young Hunter, allowing her to use their shoulders for support. Carmen wore a sparkling white cocktail dress, and her curly hair had been tied back into a high ponytail with the exception of a few locks.
"Diana, how the heck are you walking just fine?" Carmen asked her as she looked down at the high heels Diana wore, although she moved just fine in them.
"Number one Carmen, take smaller steps," Diana stated just as Carmen stumbled once again from taking a long step. "And try leaning back a bit to keep your balance."
The three of them stopped for Carmen to straighten up a bit, taking Diana's advice. She wiggled a little bit before releasing her hold on them, taking a few steps on her own. Zavala and Diana stuck with her for her first steps, watching intently as Carmen slowly moved around. But with just these quick tips she found herself walking comfortably now.
"Oh neat-o, thanks Diana!" Carmen said as she spun around to give Diana a thumbs up, but she immediately ended up on the floor because of this.
"Yeah, and try not to do that either." Diana said as she and Zavala quickly approached Carmen to help her back to her feet. As they got Carmen back on her own two feet, the remaining two members of Undaunted finally arrived in the chamber, surprising the trio who had been waiting for them.
"Niko!?" Carmen practically screamed as she got a good luck at the man. It had only been wa eek since she had first met him, but she had already gotten accustomed to his rather daring appearance. But now he was all cleaned up, and he looked so good!
"In the flesh." Niko replied with a smirk as he dusted his shoulders a bit, pleased with the attention he was receiving already.
"Not bad." Zavala commented as he and Carmen approached him. Tobias and Diana though were silent as they stared at one another, clearly impressed with their attire.
Diana wore a formal dark green strapless evening gown with a part that traveled down the side of the dress starting at her thigh. The torso was decorated while a thin scarf was draped over her shoulders. Her posture was perfect as she stood up straight, glowing under the lights of the chandelier from above. Tobias didn't even know what to say as she approached him, her eyebrows raised at how well Tobias looked in a tuxedo. Like a true gentleman.
"I'm impressed you two. Especially you Niko." Diana stated as she admired her teammates.
"Not too bad yourself." Niko remarked as he stepped past her, looking toward the entrance to the banquet hall. "So are you all ready?"
"I think so." Carmen replied as she straightened up once again, standing steadily on her heels now.
"And how about our big hero?" Niko asked as he glanced back at Tobias with a grin. Everyone looked toward Tobias who was finally snapped out of his daze, giving them a smirk that suited the occasion.
"Let's do it." He stated as they approached the guards who opened up the doorway to the hall that they had anxiously been waiting to see. They all could only look around in awe at the luminous lights that hung from the ceiling above, and the walls and tables were decorated with various plants that they had never seen on Earth. They could see the buffet table which had numerous different meals stacked high for everyone to take as they please. And there was even a dance floor where a number of those in attendance were already dancing to the light music that was playing.
But before they could venture any further into the hall, a pair of Paladins greeted them. Their presence had been requested by the Queen.
The Paladins motioned to the staircase that rested right beside the entrance that led up to the balcony that watched over the entire hall. They explained that the Queen was waiting for them there. Slowly the group of five traveled up the stairway and out onto the balcony where the person responsible for this event was waiting. Seated on a small throne which had been set up for her was the Awoken Queen, Mara Sov.
Niko's eyes practically popped out his head once he got to see the Queen. She wore a tight black gown that traveled all the way down to her ankles with silver sparkles creating a floral pattern around the bust of the dress. She sat with one leg crossed over the other, observing the room down below with her chin placed delicately on one hand.
"My Queen." Diana stated as she curtseyed while Zavala bowed respectfully. Carmen and Tobias quickly followed the example of these two. All that was left was Niko, but he just couldn't stop staring at the Queen who paid him no mind. Diana cleared her throat in an attempt to get his attention, but Niko remained distracted. Rolling her eyes, Diana jabbed her elbow into his side which finally broke him out of the trance he was in, realizing that he had yet to greet the Queen properly.
"Your Grace." He stated as he bowed to her. Now the whole group could rise as the Queen glanced at them. But her gaze became locked onto Diana.
"It returns." She said, her piercing eyes examining Diana. Diana returned her gaze fearlessly for a few moments before the Queen began to study those that stood with Diana. "We are indebted to you all. Enjoy this banquet that has been prepared for you. But Diana, I would like to speak with you further."
Zavala bowed once again, causing the rest of the team to bow as well before they turned to leave. All of them except for Diana.
"That's it?" Carmen whispered as she left with the guys. "Where's my parade?"
"You didn't even do anything." Tobias whispered in return.
"Dude, the Queen is stinkin' hot!" Niko said to Zavala who only shook his head in response as they left the balcony.
Diana and Mara shared a few moments of silence together, observing one another. Diana had a feeling that she knew what the Queen had kept her here to talk about.
"You were right," Mara said softly, breaking the silence. "The Wolves were indeed a treacherous lot."
Diana didn't say a word though, unsure of if the Queen was finished. It was a big deal for the Awoken Queen to admit that she had been wrong, and Diana didn't want to do anything to squash this effort the woman was putting forth.
"You're efforts against the Wolves and Skolas have been acknowledged by me. You banishment from the Reef has been lifted, and it has been arranged for you to return to your position among the Royal Guard."
Petra had spoiled this news for her yesterday, but Diana was still at a loss for words.
"Why do you remain silent? Is this not what you wanted?" The Queen asked curiously as she straightened up in her seat.
"I'm not sure my Queen. I need time to consider some things before I can give you an answer."
"I see." She replied. "Consider everything then, I'll be waiting."
The banquet advanced wonderfully from there for the members of Undaunted. They were like celebrities here for defeating Skolas and the Wolves. Everyone wanted to hear the details of the battle, how they pursued Skolas back in time, fought at the Battle of Twilight Gap and eventually took down the Kell of the Wolves. Those listening were in awe at the fact that these Guardians fought so bravely against the Wolves.
Zavala seemed to be having the most fun out of all the Guardians present. The Awoken were absolutely enthralled with him. They wanted to know everything about him, amazed with his accomplishments outside of the Reef.
"They're eating right out of his hand." Niko said after nudging Tobias and motioning to Zavala who had about thirty people crowded around him, listening to one of his tales.
"No kidding." Tobias said, raising his eyebrows.
Soon enough the festivities started and the dance floor was packed out by those in attendance.
"Whoa, look at them go." Carmen exclaimed as she, Niko and Tobias watched the Awoken people from their seats. All of them were moving in unison to the song that was playing. They were repeating the same steps, but everyone seemed to be having a blast.
"Haven't you guys ever done this before? It's called line dancing." Diana asked as she approached the three of them.
"Never." Niko replied.
"Me neither." Carmen added.
"I think I've seen this before." Tobias said with some uncertainty. Or rather, he felt like he knew it.
"It's easy. I'll show you guys the steps, then you just have to keep up with everyone else." Diana said as the song changed, and she immediately perked up at this. "Oh, this is a really good one! Come on, quick!"
Diana led the three of them out onto the dance floor and showed them steps as the song got going. The steps were simple, or simple enough for Tobias to have a grasp as he fit right into the crowd. But Carmen and Niko found themselves bumping into the everyone until about halfway through. Even with their mistakes though, they could see why everyone was having such a good time moving together.
Once the song came to an end, Carmen shuffled off the dance floor, her feet aching from the heels. She was honestly amazed that she hadn't fallen over once while she was dancing. Now she couldn't wait to get off her feet. But in her rush to get to her seat, Carmen overstepped and found herself resting on the floor with a groan.
"Yikes, are you alright?" Tobias asked her as kneeled down beside her, offering her a hand to help her get back on her feet.
"Eh, I've been better." She replied, kicking off her heels. She would rather walk around without them at this point then suffer another minute. "Thanks."
Taking a hold of Tobias' hand, the two of them were about to rise up when someone else suddenly grabbed a hold of Tobias' forearm, causing both of their heads to snap to the side to see this mystery person. It was a man, dressed in a long black and yellow robe with a large hood that concealed his eyes from them. Even with his face partially hidden, the eerie smile on his face was still visible, this expression being directed at Tobias.
"You have returned." He exclaimed, out of breath.
From her balcony, the Queen caught sight of something that earned her interest. Vance was awake once again.
"Brother, bring them to me." She said softly.
The Guardians had been gathered together and taken into the Queen's private chambers where she and her brother were waiting for them. The Queen was rather unnerved even though she didn't show it on her expression, but she softly drummed her fingers on the armrest of her seat.
She couldn't believe that she hadn't realized that Tobias had returned. She was very, very young when she first met Tobias. But he was different now. He didn't give off the same presence that he did the last time he was in the Reef. Something must have happened to him.
"What did you call us here for?" Niko asked, slightly annoyed that his fun had been cut short.
"You don't seem to have a grasp on the situation, do you Guardian?" Uldren, the Queen's brother asked him with a sneer.
"What situation? Skolas is dead, the Wolves are gone. What are you talking about?" Niko asked in return.
"This could be our darkest hour." Vance said softly.
"Who is he?" Zavala asked as he recognized the insignia on the shoulder of Vance's robe. The symbol of the sun.
"I am Vance, a Disciple of Osiris." He stated as he turned to Zavala. "I had been...asleep for a while, but Tobias awakened me."
"Wha-What do you mean by that?" Tobias asked. This guy was getting creepier by the second.
"Vance was in a coma prior to your arrival. For some twenty years he slept in one of our chambers, not that-that would matter to any of you." Uldren explained. "His awakening means something great is on the horizon.
"I was embraced by the Radiant Light. I was awakened by it, by you." Vance concluded, casting his gaze in Tobias' direction. At the mention of Radiant Light, Diana piped up with a question.
"What do you know about the Radiant Light?" Diana asked him, a look of skepticism on her face that she wasn't afraid to show...not that Vance could see it. It was clear that this man knew something about Tobias, something that they all needed to know.
"Tobias is the Vessel of the Traveler. He holds the last of its strength and its will, otherwise known as the Radiant Light." Vance continued.
'Vessel…of the Traveler?' Niko repeated in his mind.
'What the heck does that mean?' Carmen asked herself.
'I knew he was different, but this goes beyond what I expected.' Zavala noted.
"Osiris took a special interest in Tobias when they first met. He felt as though Tobias was the key to defeating the Darkness because he could wield the Light in ways other Guardians are not able too." Vance went on.
"So wait, I worked with this Osiris guy?" Tobias asked, receiving a nod from Vance.
"The group you worked for, they didn't work with the Vanguard. They had their own agenda, and you were the centerpiece to their operation." The Speaker had shared this with him when they had first met. And it appeared as though Tobias had finally found a clue to his past.
"What else do you know about me?" Tobias asked curiously.
"I was there for what we thought was your final mission. When the Hive first arrived on the Earth, Osiris spent a great deal of time tracking their activity. Soon enough he discovered that the Hive was preparing an invasion force within the Moon, led by Oryx, one of their gods." Vance explained as he turned to the Queen and Uldren, the only two people in the room that recognized the name. "This invasion force along with Oryx was dispatched by Tobias, but Tobias disappeared after this battle. Osiris foretold that when Tobias returned, that would be the sign that Oryx is returning as well."
"That beast is returning?" The Queen asked. Diana and Uldren took a short glance at the Queen, hearing a touch of dread in her voice. She had leaned forward in her seat, now fully invested in this discussion.
"Yes, my Queen. I don't know how much time we have left, but I have a way of checking." Vance declared.
"Hold on, hold on, who's Oryx and what the hell is going on?" Niko asked, putting halting any action that was about to take place. Uldren snorted a bit at the ignorance of the Guardians.
"Oryx came to your home, ravaged your lands, slew your people. He was the direct cause of the Collapse and you don't even know him?" Uldren asked incredulously him, his arms raised halfway.
"There's nothing in our archives about Oryx." Zavala stated. He had never seen or heard of the name.
"I suppose everything was lost after the Collapse." Uldren reasoned as he shook his head.
"Oryx is the father of Crota. He commands the Hive from the top of their hierarchy." Vance explained, leaving them all a bit shocked. They had slain Crota, the Hive God who had killed thousands of Guardians in the Battle of Mare Imbrium. It had taken numerous attempts and sacrifices, but Crota was no more. And yet Crota was only in the shadow of an even greater foe.
The eyes of the Guardians became wide as this information settled in their minds. Oryx was coming.
"It's clear none of you understand the magnitude of Oryx's return." Uldren stated as he stepped toward them. "I'm assuming that any information regarding Oryx on the Earth was lost in the Collapse. But the people who managed to escape Earth saw him slaughter everything in his path. If he returns, that spells certain doom for everything in the system."
"What are we going to do?" Carmen asked softly as she struggled to picture what Oryx must have been like.
"As much as I hate to admit it, working together may be our only option." Uldren stated, shocking everyone present.
"Are you suggesting, an alliance brother?" The Queen asked him, her head tilted as she observed him.
"None of us know what Oryx is truly capable of. If the Guardians of Earth fall, Oryx will come to the Reef next." Uldren explained before motioning to the Guardians that stood before them. "Our only chance of defeating Oryx, lies with them."
The Queen sat in silence for a moment, studying the Guardians. Her eyes eventually settled on Tobias. If this was indeed the man that worked alongside Osiris, then he was their only hope.
"An alliance is in order, between the Awoken and the Guardians." The Queen, Mara Sov, stated.
"Are you serious?" Carmen said in a whisper.
"I'll get into contact with the Vanguard." Zavala added almost immediately. There wasn't a moment to be wasted. Oryx was coming, and if this foe was as great as Prince Uldren claimed he was, the Guardians would need all the time they could get.
"Vance, you spoke of a way to check Oryx's location." Uldren said as everyone focused on Vance.
"Yes. Years ago Osiris discovered that the Hive had built shrines within the Moon that were dedicated to Oryx. Osiris once speculated that they used these shrines to contact Oryx." Vance explained pointedly. "If we can get to those shrines, we can tap into them and take a, peek, at Oryx."
"I'll entrust you to the Guardians then."
A/N
And here we go, the start of the Taken King. This isn't going to be a retelling of the canon, not by a long shot. From the get-go this is going to be different from how TTK unfolded in the game. And I really can't wait to get into it.
In other news, the newest Destiny expansion has been revealed and it looks incredible! I was just about to take a break from Destiny but seeing that trailer has me so hyped that I'm still playing Destiny full time. If you by some weird chance haven't seen the trailer, definitely check it out. Lord Saladin looks like a stinkin' boss!
Thanks for all your support as always everyone :)