Clay snarled at Exagmal, taking a defensive stance immediately. "You ain't all the talk you're up to be either." Exagmal clicked, hunching over, but still remaining above Clay. "How'd you find us anyhow?"
Exagmal's clicking increased in speed, their head tilted, almost looking at him upside down. "Isn't it obvious? Really, if you cannot figure something so simple out, maybe you are just a foolish child. Here I was hoping for at least a challenge." They hoped back, leaping onto one of the stone fixtures. "Yet your little group doesn't even seem like it is going to be fun to play with."
They casually ducked down, avoiding a kick from Kimiko who landed with her back towards them, her surprise attack failed. She turned quickly, ready to attack again. "Nice try," Exagmal said, pushing themself up to emphasize their condescending tone.
"Wasn't hard to know you were here the second the entire temple started to stink," Kimiko growled.
Exagmal barked out a laugh, staring her down. "What a tongue. Be a shame if someone ripped it out of that little head of yours." They clenched one hooked hand, drawing it close when Kimiko's face faltered for a second before returning to anger.
Clay shifted his weight, only a flinch from being able to send a boulder flying. "Why are you here?"
"Finally, you ask the important question." Four of Exagmal's hands spread out in dramatic exasperation. "Well, let us start with this. I need something you have."
Kimiko snorted, glaring at them. "A breath mint? Morals? Bug spray?"
Exagmal hissed, glaring right back at her. "Silence, you insolent little child. You are in no position to be insulting me." They placed all of their hands back in front of them, gripping the fixture again. "I need that Orb of Tornami the short one was using."
Clay frowned. "Why, and why would we ever hand it over to you?"
"Ohhh, I was hoping you'd ask. Well, let me say this was not my first stop, I was going to just take it from that little welp but he didn't have it." Exagmal tsked, and from behind their cape they pulled out the SIlver Manta Ray. "He had this but I am not interested in this useless thing."
Clay and KImiko stared at the Wu in horror, the proof that Exagmal had gotten to Omi and done who knows what. Clay's face twisted, and with one quick, firm motion he sent a boulder flying forward to Exagmal. Exagmal jumped barely dodging it as it shattered the fixture they once sat on. Before they could even remark, fireballs were flying in their direction. This time they barely flinched, instead catching each one in their hands before crushing them, extinguishing them as if they were nothing.
Kimiko stared at the smoke, before looking back at Exagmal's face and furiously yelling, "What did you do with Omi?!"
"Nothing much, yet. He is quite a fighter." Exagmal laughed again, a heart ripping cruelness in every moment. "I can't very well destroy my leverage though, can I?"
Clay's fists tightened as he glared harder and Kimiko thrusted her own fist forward a bit, sparking as she yelled back "What are you talking about?!"
Exagmal put their hands together, "A trade, little firefly. The pond skater for the Orb of Tornami." They ducked as a large boulder was hurled in their direction.
Clay grit his teeth, looking at them in utter disgust. "You dung rollin' pest!"
Kimiko's hands lit with bright flames, her hands clenched into tight fists. "We don't make deals with termites!" The fire illuminated her face in a dramatic red glow.
Exagmal looked at them both before laughing, loudly and cruely. The loud clicking and chirping behind their tone. "Do you think you have a choice?" They dragged out their words, hunching over and stretching out their neck to stare down at her.
Kimiko grimaced, shifting her weight to her back foot. Her hesitation only lasted a second before she leaped forward, aiming a punch for Exagmal's jaw. The fire around her fingers lashed quickly in the wind, hot and bright as her anger fueled her element.
The punch landed, Exagmal's neck twisting with a sickening crack, the fire twisting out around their face in a blaze. Kimiko smirked triumphantly, pulling back her fist. "I think we have a few other options."
Exagmal stood for a moment, before quickly turning their head back to Kimiko, no remnants of her hit remaining on their face. Astonished, Kimiko made a move to leap back before Exagmal could attack her. As she tried to jump, her leg was gripped tightly by two of Exagmal's arms, and she was sent flying into the temple wall. Smashing into it, she slumped over, unconscious.
Clay stared wide eyed, about to run to her side when Exagmal landed in front of him.
They looked at him, orange eyes shining and drool dripping from their teeth. "Now now, little scarab. You have a much more pressing matter to deal with." They slashed forward, the same magic from before emanating off of their clawed hands. Hot air brushed in front of Clay, as he'd barely backed away in time. He steadied himself, fists clenched as he glared at Exagmal.
Exagmal observed him, Clay's skin almost crawling as he could feel their analytical stare. They prowled around him, slowly. He kept his eye on them, carefully following their movements, watching for any sign that they'd change pace.
Exagmal curled one hand under their jaw. "Much slower than your counterparts, aren't you?" They stood up straighter, taller. "I suppose you'll pack a much stronger punch than the rest of them." They jumped towards him, fists still hot as they reached to strike. Clay ducked before sending his own fist upward into Exagmal's chin and knocking them back.
Exagmal stood, rubbing where he'd hit and looking at him. "I was right." They laughed.
Clay's fists tightened in anger. "That nasty shell can only take so many hits before it cracks." His knuckles went white as he stood ready to attack.
Exagmal sneered at him, a clicking coming from the back of their throat. "What large talk for someone so small."
They went in for another attack, watching Clay carefully as he avoided their fists. The fourth fist flying over his head was grabbed, Clay ignored the intense heat and in a swift motion pushed upward, a crack coming from their arm before he pushed harder and sent them flying over head. He rubbed his fingers to his palms, extinguishing some of the burning sensation while he watched Exagmal land and skid across the ground.
They turned quickly to face him and without breaking eye contact, snapped their arm back into place. Before they could run back at him, Clay sent a boulder their way. It cratered into where they once stood, and Exagmal looked at Clay with mock awe.
"Tell me, little scarab." They started, running to him, one fist quickly caught in his calloused hand, "How long can you stand all alone?" Their grin turned sadistic as his fist tightened over theirs. "Even the strongest structure needs pillars, does it not? And here you are, so unstable." They growled, shoulders hunching as Clay's arms slacked just a bit.
"Guess again, garbage breath!" In the doorway, Jack stood. His loud voice gave an impression of confidence that his quaking knees quickly dispelled, but nonetheless he stood holding the Imo Gazer in a tight grip. "Back off the cowboy!" Jack yelled.
Clay used the distraction to send a hard kick to Exagmal's chest, knocking them back. Exagmal glared at him, but their eyes quickly shifted to Jack instead, the new target and the item in his hands being of much more interest to them.
"So the cockroach chose to show his face, and he's even trying to fight. How exciting." The sarcasm dripped as thick as the drool running from their teeth. They eyed him, smirking as he shrank back a bit. "You really think you scare me with that toy?"
"A toy you were after." Clay pointed out. Exagmal ignored him, keeping their leering eyes on Jack.
Jack pointed the Imo gazer, and with a shout he activated it. Exagmal made no move to dodge the blast. It hit them dead on, they stepped back, shaking their head briefly before looking Jack right in the eye. "As I said. Nothing but a toy."
Jack's legs shook, and while his grip remained tight he retreated a bit into his shoulders as Exagmal stepped forward to him. Their advance was interrupted as they were knocked away by a chunk of the ground. Clay stood in silent fury, already preparing to hurl another.
Exagmal lifted themself from the ground, avoiding the second attack and leaped, landing behind him. "I will give you a day. Bring me the orb, and you will get your little friend back. I'm sure I don't need to tell you of the consequences if you refuse." Exagmal's voice clicked in mocking laughter, making Clay's rage boil inside him. "When you're ready to trade, follow the moths to find me."
There was a dry crack in the air, as if something short circuited behind him. Turning around, Clay saw nothing but open space. He glared before snapping his head in Kimiko's direction.
Jack was kneeling beside her, awkwardly trying to make sure she was okay. He seemed reluctant to handle her too much, scared she'd awaken and sock him for coming too close. Clay jogged over, taking her into his arms and carrying her back inside with Jack in tow.
Clay set her down carefully, feeling her wrist. A slight calm washed over him, her pulse was fine, and she was breathing normally.
Jack put the Imo Gazer on the table beside them, and sat down a bit of a distance away. "So, uh. She alright?" He peeked over her, his shoulders relaxing a smidge when Clay nodded slightly.
"Long as she wakes up. I think she's taken harder hits, though; she'll be alright." Clay fiddled with his thumbs. "Jack, back there… Thanks."
Jack sat up straight, confused as his mind processed exactly what was happening. It took him a moment to realize Clay was genuinely thanking him, and for what. "Oh! Oh that- no problem! Just in a day's work." Jack leaned against the table, smirking cockily. "Not that it uh. Did much." He deflated a bit, using one finger to roll the Imo Gazer side to side.
Clay turned to face him. "It did enough."
Jack gave him a slight smile at the reassurance, and Clay nodded again before his attention was brought back to Kimiko. She was stirring, her eyes fluttering open and she looked up to Clay.
She blinked at him a few times, eyes adjusting to the light as the previous events rushed back into her mind. She sat up straight, staring at Clay in concern before groaning and taking hold of her head. Clay placed a hand on her shoulder to help steady her, carefully taking her closer as she leaned into him.
"Omi…" She muttered. "What happened- what are we going to do?"
"The nasty thing got away." He helped her lay back down. "Gave us the ultimatum. The Orb of Tornami for Omi." Clay kept his hand on her, stopping her from trying to sit up again.
She huffed, glaring at the ceiling. "So what, we just hand over what that dirt eater wants?" Kimiko's fists tightened, asking the question despite knowing the answer. They had no choice, not if they wanted Omi back.
Raimundo's feet landed on soft grass. He wasn't sure why he'd come here. Why did he think she'd be here, of all the places in the world she could go. He supposed it just felt like the place to start, where everything really began.
He stared over the city of Rio, the sun low on the horizon, the morning waves washing in an out against the beach that stretched as far as he could see. He took a deep breath, the air was calm, and for the first time in what felt like forever, he felt a bit of it too. Or he did, until he heard footsteps approaching him.
"So you come here to think all the time, or just when you have fights with your friends?" Wuya crept behind him, acting as if they were old companions reminiscing.
Raimundo's face fell. He side-eyed her but didn't turn around. "You come here to think, or just to be creepy everytime I show up?" He shoved the Golden Tiger Claws into his pockets.
Wuya hummed, crossing her arms. "Word in the sky is that you've run into a new friend. I know those other two are useless, so I could only assume you'd want to find me." She tapped her fingers against her forearm.
Raimundo frowned, unsure why the statement bothered him that much. He finally turned, facing her head on, his face full of doubt. "Why would you want me to find you?"
Wuya smirked, moving to tap her fingers together. "Don't I deserve to have my secrets?" She smiled with faux innocence, face dropping when Raimundo scoffed. "Fine. I'm not exactly fond of this overgrown garden pest. Plus I think we may be able to make a deal-" she started, but was quickly cut off.
"I don't make deals with you anymore." Raimundo spoke coldly, glare afixed on Wuya.
She pouted at him. "Won't even hear my offer, how rude can you be?" She fluffed her hair, placing a hand on her hip. "Did you think you'd get something for nothing? You know that isn't how that works."
Raimundo paused. "What do you want?" He finally said, though his tone reluctant.
Wuya grinned at him, waving her hand casually. "Simple, simple- I want my powers back."
Raimundo's shoulders tensed, and he stared at her in anger. "You know that isn't happening. Even if it was somehow worth it, I'm not the one who's got them on hold."
Wuya pursed her lips, tapping her finger to her cheek. "Yes, but that one is on your side now, isn't he?" She stepped forward, taking Raimundo's chin in her hand and ignoring his disgusted face as she spoke. "Besides, I'm not just offering information. I'm offering a solution." She grinned slyly as Raimundo's face faltered for a moment, intrigued by her words. She pet his hair, letting out a breathy laugh as he backed away from her.
He squared his shoulders, glaring her down. "Not interested."
"You clearly are. Why else would you be here?" She tilted her head, watching him like a snake about to strike. "Don't you trust me, Raimundo?" She cooed sarcastically. "Or do you just not trust anyone? Not me, not Chase, not even your best friend." Her smirk turned sadistic when Raimundo's face twisted to fury.
"You aren't one to be talking about trust issues." He glared harder, half hoping he'd develop laser eyes mid-sentence.
Wuya hummed, her smile remaining. "I'm not the one questioning my friend's judgement, am I?"
"Of course not. You'd need friends to do that." Raimundo muttered.
Wuya's mouth twitched and her eyes narrowed, but her smile remained. "Cheeky. Now about getting dragon breath to give me my powers back…"
"Look," Raimundo snapped, ice hanging from his words and gaze. "Whatever troubles you two have, I don't care. I'm not your couples counselor, and I'm not about to play middle man to get you the powers we're all better off without."
Wuya crossed her arms, raising an eyebrow and watching him carefully. "So quick to find me, so quick to deny my help. You really don't have any idea what you're doing, do you?"
Raimundo seethed, his anger reaching its boiling point. He took a sharp breath and slashed the air with the Golden Tiger Claws.
Wuya stood behind him as the vortex sucked the air around them. "Just as I thought."
And he was gone.
Raimundo had his eyes closed as he landed at the temple, taking a moment to collect himself. He hadn't been gone long; he knew Omi wouldn't be back yet.
He still wasn't prepared for what he saw: rubble, rock and shambles, the grounds torn up. His gut twisted. He looked around, trying to take it all in but barely able to process it.
He his eyes snapped to Jack at the entrance to the temple. He looked frazzled and visibly relieved when he saw Raimundo's face, as if he'd feared it'd be someone else.
Raimundo didn't move, still frozen in place. "Jack." The rest of his words caught in his throat. Jack motioned for him to follow.
"It's a long story, uh, the cowboy will probably do a better job with it." He was holding something back; Raimundo could feel that there was so much more than just a ruined statue.
He finally got his legs to move, they were reluctant and heavy, wanting to avoid whatever was coming. The air felt thick, dirty and heavy like used rags.
He followed Jack silently, shocked as he saw Kimiko laying on the mat, an ice pack on her head.
She looked at him and sat up again, the bag falling into her lap. "Rai!" She exclaimed before holding her head. Raimundo stared at her in shock before kneeling beside her, carefully placing the ice pack into her hands.
Clay sat up as well, having been leaning against the wall waiting for his return. He pushed himself off the ground, standing up and walking closer to them. Raimundo stared up at him, turmoil etched on his face.
Clay stated slowly, as if it wasn't obvious. "We had a visitor."
Raimundo looked to him before glancing back at Kimiko. "Is everyone okay?"
"Jack's scratchless, I've just got a bit of a burn on my hands, and Kimiko's okay. A nasty bump on her head, but doesn't look like anything serious." He put his hands in his pockets.
Raimundo's shoulders slumped in relief, but his face went back to concern when he saw Clay's.
"What aren't you telling me?" Raimundo stared at him.
Clay frowned deeply. "They got Omi." He pulled the Silver Manta Ray out. "They want to trade for him. Omi for the Orb of Tornami."
Raimundo froze, staring wide-eyed at the Silver Manta Ray. Everything was slow and trying to move was like wading through pudding. Clay kneeled down, placing a hand on his shoulder, and suddenly the world was moving again. Raimundo wished it wasn't. Clay told him the whole story, the fight, the conditions, everything.
Clay looked at him solemnly. "They gave us a day. We need to make a choice."
Raimundo looked to the floor. "What choice is there?" He pulled the Orb of Tornami from his robes. "We have to make the trade."
No one wanted to disagree. How could any of them say no to saving Omi? How could they try and bring up any counterpoints, when the definite consequence of refusing the trade was his life?
Finally, Jack's voice cut the silence "Can't you guys do some, sneaky saving maneuver or something? Swoop in and save the short stack?" He said, though the harsh eyes that landed on him almost made him regret it. "I'm just saying, it's not like you losers to just give in so easy." He trailed off, looking Raimundo in the eyes.
Rai's stare softened a bit, he turned his head to stare into the Orb of Tornami. "It's not like I want to just hand it over, but what else do we do? We don't know where the thing is, we have to be lead there, and I'm sure they're gonna be informed about our arrival. They'll know who's there and what we're doing at all times." Raimundo huffed, the stress and worry taking his breath away. "I know, we need more of a plan than just handing it over, but I'm making the fact that we are going for the deal clear now. We aren't going to even risk losing Omi like this." He stared harder at the Orb until a hand was placed on his other shoulder. Kimiko smiled at him supportively.
From his other side, Clay pushed himself from the ground. "We'll figure out a plan, but if ya don't mind me sayin' so: First thing we should do is get Jermaine, an' then we'll let Master Monk Guan know what happened." Knowing from his firsthand fight that Exagmal had treated his hits like a game, they really were going to need all of the help they could get.
Raimundo nodded, pulling out the Golden Tiger Claws. "We should go together." Raimundo didn't look at any of them, the statement said everything: He didn't want another attack to happen. He didn't want to lose anyone else. "You too, Jack."
Jack, who'd been standing awkwardly to the side as they spoke straightened up his posture. "O-Of course I'm coming! You think I'd let you Xiaolin dorks leave me behind?" Raimundo rolled his eyes, but internally grateful for the banter. It made things almost feel normal.
"You okay to travel, Kim?" He glanced her way. Kimiko waved her hand, holding the ice to her head.
"Don't worry about me; it takes more than a headache to keep me down." She grinned, carefully pushing herself off of the mat. She winced at the movement, and the dizzy feeling it caused, but she stood sturdy. Raimundo nodded at her, turning to cut the air, a purple rip now swirling in front of him. He stared into it, looking behind him one last time before jumping through.
First stop: New York.
