Jak IV: The Avenging Angels
OK, so it took a bit longer than I would've liked. Still got it up in two weeks.
Sue me, I've had a sinus infection all week, but am feeling much better now. Next chapter should be pretty straightforward and should be up much quicker than this one, leaving chapter 40 to be the ending to Arc 4, another chapter I'm very much looking forward to. That one may take two full weeks, because its going to be a very long chapter.
Shoutout to those who reviewed last chapter, which included ScreamGirl4998, Mooman1706, Oblique Strategies, and two new reviewers known as oli. young. 56, and randomguy1980. Thanks for the support!
Now, I know I'm stretching things a bit with character backstories here, especially with Torn, but to be honest, I think using the excuse that people can change or want to change is a good reason for him to change as drastically as he did, from a spineless teen that abandoned Nightingale to the Marauder's to a brave leader in the Underground.
Anyway, here's the chapter!
Enjoy!
Chapter 38: Our Only Hope
"Where there is a will, there is a way. If there is a chance in a million that you can do something, anything, to keep what you want from ending, do it. Pry the door open or, if need be, wedge your foot in that door and keep it open."-Pauline Kael.
Last Chapter Recap:
Last chapter, Jak, Nightingale, and Daxter return to the Sanctuary to discuss Tech and Jak's newest form, Guardian. While this happens, Torn is being threatened by General Dark, the mysterious Leader of the Hunters, who assures him that there is no chance of survival for any of them by the end of the week, when the final battle will take place. He vanishes, leaving Torn skeptical of Haven City's chances in the fight.
Jak and Nightingale continue to experiment with Jak's Guardian form, trying to get him used to using it, and are amazed at the strength and speed he now possesses during his transformation, though he is still learning how to use it. Blade, Chill, and a newly recovered Chase arrive, where they talk briefly about the Hunters and the upcoming battle before being told that a transport is ready to take them to the Icelands, where Tech's last known location is.
Tech and Shadow break into the Sanctuary, specifically Tech's Workshop, so he can begin repairing his armor and begin modifying Shadow's armor. The two share a moment before they talk through the night, taking comfort in the silence and safety that the Sanctuary can give them.
Three days pass, where we find Jak, Daxter, and Nightingale returning to their inn and relaxing, having spent the entire day trying to track down a lead to Tech. After some fluff and romance from Jak and Night, the two sense Arranst, who proclaims to have finally found someone. Jak and Nightingale suit up, leaving Daxter behind to warn the mayor of the nearby town about the danger, and head out to the Crossroad Icefields, where they find Tech and Shadow in a standoff with Havoc, who at this point is being completely controlled and subdued by Lady Arranst, the Metal Head Queen. A brief fight ensues before Nightingale and Jak jump in. Despite their protests, a massive showdown in the snow begins between the five warriors, with Jak, Nightingale, and Havoc utilizing their Eco forms while Tech and Shadow use superior technology to stay alive. During the fight. Havoc shatters a massive frozen cliff, creating an avalanche of sorts that causes heavy chunks of ice to crash down onto the ground below.
The group continues to wear one another down, but after some time Jak realizes that each time he strikes Havoc with the Blade of Mar, he seems to act strangely and even begins to resist Arrant's commands. Havoc manages to claim the final fragment, but not before Jak injures him with the Yvantael, causing Havoc to regain his senses and beg Jak to kill him, ending his torment. Before Jak can do this, Arranst regains control of Havoc and attacks Jak, afterwards showing fear and uncertainty due to his power.
The two vanish, leaving the group wondering just what they should do now that the Hunter's have the final Fragment of the Gate to Darkness. Tech comments that they should follow him into the newly revealed ice cave, where he believes a secret weapon created by the Precursors lies in wait for them…
A silver bullet designed to end it all…
Icy Cavern:
"Finally…" Tech said quietly as they descended down the stairway, a set of frozen steps that led down into the depths of the Icelands. Nightingale, Daxter, and Jak had been following the genius and his fiancé for roughly thirty minutes, walking deep within the ground, before they came out to a massive door.
Jak admired the door for a moment, a grand sort of thing that was emblazoned with the Seal of Mar. Jak walked to the door, causing Tech to step aside, and he pressed his hand on it. The door shuddered and glowed white for a moment before opening for them, allowing them to see into a massive chamber.
The walls were lined with gold and Precursor metal while the middle was an beautiful orange sort of material that Jak had never seen before. In the middle of the room sat a small dais, in front of which sat a large table…
"Yes…Finally!" Tech said as he ran forward to the table, eyeing the object on it with a look of relief and glee.
"Stephen…what is that?" Shadow asked as she and the others walked forward.
"The answer to our prayers…The Rebirth of Hope, its called in our tongue…its beautiful…" Tech whispered, his hands hovering over the device but not quite touching it, as though he were to.
It was a long needle-like device made of Precursor metals with glowing gold runes flowing down the sides. Precursor script was intricately written alongside the shaft of the device, culminating it a deadly needle point made of shining white metal.
"What…is it?" Jak asked the genius.
"Basically, it's a bomb. This is a…no….This is the bomb. The Precursor Bomb. A bomb created by the gods themselves, to annihilate their enemies. Do you remember the Piercer Bomb you told us that Krew had designed for Baron Praxis?" Tech asked Jak and Daxter, who both nodded. "This makes that look like nothing. This is a weapon so powerful the Precursor had to hide this away from their home planet, unable to risk an accident with something like this…Its beautiful…isn't it?"
"Way to sound like old fat-ass himself, Tech. I can practically hear him drooling in hell now," Daxter remarked, shuddering at the thought of Krew.
"So they hid it on Earth?" Jak asked, surprised.
"No…Apparently they moved it to Earth once the first planet they hid it on was destroyed by the Metal Heads. According to the Precursors and the writings left behind, this was their greatest technological achievement, and was to be the silver bullet to win the war against the Metal Heads…Their greatest achievement is a weapon strong enough to destroy the Metal Head home world and kill Arranst once and for all." Tech said as he took off his helmet, his eyes gleaming with excitement.
"Why didn't they use it then?" Daxter asked Tech, who sighed.
"They didn't have time to finish it. This was designed as an absolute last resort. The Dark Goddess managed to kill off those who had the drive and ability to finish this thing, and the Precursor King had time to hide it before the world was destroyed…"
"And it would seem you have finally found it…" a quiet familiar voice said to them. The group looked behind them and saw to their amazement, the Precursors standing on the dais, glowing a faint gold color.
"What are you guys doing here?" Daxter asked the Precursors, who smiled at him.
"You truly are the most gifted mind we have ever seen, Stephen. You honor us, even now, with your dedication to us." Usano said as Tech stepped forward, a scowl on his face.
"So, you finally show yourselves." Tech growled at the Gods, all three of whom stopped smiling.
"We are here to explain how to save the universe…Something we could not do ourselves." Usano said to the group, his voice grave and serious now, almost…father-like.
"We have watched you all grow into the warriors you have now. Both Hunter and Avenging Angel will participate in the downfall of the Dark Goddess, culminating in an incredible showdown the likes of which this world has ever seen. This battle is the most important of many, for Haven City represents our will. A will that will ever falter. A will that will never die."
"Your will? You've never done anything to help us!" Daxter yelled at the Precursors.
"True. We have never aided you directly. But answer us this...Jak. Who aided you on your quest to deal with Gor and Maia by operating the Oracles that gave you Power Cells? Who controlled the hologram within the Precursor Egg? Who gave you the gift of Light Eco?"
"Nightingale, we have had a hand in shaping your life as well. We bestowed upon you the gift of light as well, and helped make you into who you are today." Usano said to the Champion of Light.
"Ask Havoc, and he will answer the same…We have always watched. We have always cared…Secrecy was paramount, we could not risk being discovered by any means necessary, but we have always been there. Always…Always watching, and always proud of you for what you have done in our name. You honor our legacy. All of you have."
"OK, so maybe you have done some stuff for us. But you've never been on the front lines. You were content to hide like cowards," Shadow said to the gods, who nodded.
"True. But the time has come for that to change. In the meantime, you all have a battle to prepare for. General Dark and Lady Arranst will not stop with Haven City, should you fall. They will continue their conquest until all of the world's we created are nothing but wastelands of darkness."
"What are you three going to do while we fight?" Jak asked the Precursors, who looked away.
"We know what we must do, when the time is right…We will have to confront our greatest foe. The Queen of the Metal Heads." Usano smiled bitterly and said "We have lived for a time even we cannot know. Did we always exist, or did we simply will ourselves into being?"
"We don't even know, man. Pretty crazy stuff." Elis said with a shake of the head, a smile on his face while Gud simply shrugged.
"But all this time, we have remained hidden. We watched as the world we created grew and flourished, and faced its own demons. Jak, you are but one of the many heroes we have seen rise to greatness. But…You are different from the rest. You represent a balance between the two forces of life. Good and evil. Light and Dark. You are not just some selfless hero, but you are wild and powerful and dangerous as well. You are balance incarnate, a child we created for the sole purpose of saving us. In the end, you are a true hero though. A Hero worthy of the name, Mar."
"It was predicted, eons ago, that three children would be born to save us. To destroy the Metal Head Queen and bring peace to this universe. One of darkness. One of light…and one who represents balance between the two…You three shall save us all. Of that, we are sure." Usano said in a quiet voice.
"What about Havoc? He's beyond lost at this point, the Metal Head Queen has him completely under her control." Daxter asked Usano, who shook his head.
"Do not underestimate Havoc's will. Even now, he seeks to break free and regain his control back. He has been fighting a god-like force for some time now, striving to regain his full sense of self. What small spurts of Havoc you do see are the manipulated and brainwashed emotions and thoughts that Arranst allows him to feel…But do not worry. Jazon will return, once the Gate to Darkness has been completed. At the Gate's opening, all will be revealed." Usano said to Jak and Nightingale, who nodded.
"And what about you three? Will you just sit back and watch as Lady Arranst kills us all?" Shadow asked Usano, who shook his head.
"We have watched for long enough…It is time to show the world that the Gods have yet to abandon them…" Usano murmured, his grip on his staff tightening. Jak felt a small shudder at the sound of anger in his voice.
"In the meantime, you need get to work on the Rebirth of Hope. With your know-how, Tech, you'll be able to get that baby 100% operational. After that, you just have to find the Gate to Darkness, go to the Metal Head homeworld, and deliver that payload to the Queen's throne room, the seat of her power." Elis said to Tech, giving him a thumbs up.
"Kaboom!" Gud cheered.
"Yes…The Kedical, or the Rebirth of Hope, is our last resort. Our ultimate last resort. In our fear of the Dark Goddess's strength, we turned to our greatest engineers and created a bomb strong enough to destroy her and the Hora Quan homeworld. However, we were unable to finish it before Arranst destroyed our planet." Usano explained.
"So, that's where Tech comes in." Shadow said to the god, who nodded.
"We have stored many of the tools that were used to construct the device here, though some of them were lost in the destruction of our planet. Despite our omnipotence, we could never touch such a device ourselves…We simply cannot. I am sure you will succeed in reconstructing the device, Stephen. We have faith in your abilities." Usano said to Tech, who after the longest pause, nodded.
"As Elis said, you must find the Gate to Darkness and use it to travel to the Metal Head homeworld yourself. Mar, Iris, and Jazon must go through the gate together and use the Kedical to destroy Queen Arranst. The Queen's connections to the Metal Heads, all across the Universe, are in her throne room. You must challenge her there and defeat her. But first…You must survive the battle to come." Usano explained quietly.
"Before this, you must hold off Dark's forces and prevent them from summoning Arranst for as long as possible. They will likely attempt to summon her to the City," Usano said to the group.
"How? Only the Gate to Darkness can sustain her through a passage to Earth from the Metal Head homeworld, and we heard that the Gate to Darkness is being constructed in the Uvelt Firelands." Nightingale asked Usano, who smiled.
"The Gate to Darkness is required for her to journey to this planet. Once she is here, she can easily use a standard warp gate with no problems to travel this planet with ease. It is likely they will utilize methods like this to transport the Dark Goddess to Haven City in a timely fashion."
"The Gate to Darkness is the strongest Warp Gate devised, created to allow us to deliver the Kedical to the Metal Head homeworld and destroyed them. Arranst using our own invention against us is the ultimate display of irony." Usano said bitterly, shaking his head.
"But, we're going to use it for its original purpose. To send our Champions to destroy the Metal Heads directly, by taking out the Queen." Usano said after a moment's pause, his voice gaining strength.
"Sir, we need to get going and prepare for…well, you know?" Elis said with a wink.
"Oh…Yes. Of course. We will also have to take you along with us, you know, and speak with you personally. It's about time you learned what we are truly capable of." Usano said as he pointed his staff at Jak, who took a step back.
"What?" Jak said, clearly confused.
"We will see you all very soon. Do not give up hope. Do not ever stop fighting...And do not ever stop believing that good will triumph over evil." Usano said before the staff flashed gold and fired a beam at Jak, who flinched as a wicked beam of light ripped through the room. Daxter yelled out as the beam hit him directly, causing him to vanish instantly. The three Precursor vanished from the room in a flash of white light, leaving the group bewildered.
"Did they just kidnap Daxter?" Night asked after a moment.
"Who knows what those furballs are thinking. For now, we need to get this device somewhere safe so I can work on it." Tech said as his glove turned blue and fired a beam at the bomb and the tools laying around it, causing them to vanish.
"What did you do?" Shadow asked Tech, who smiled.
"Teleportation storage to my office in the Sanctuary. Though…This will be a long shot. A very very long shot…I've heard whispers about an artifact in this Icefield for my entire life. I've always dreamed of finding this great weapon…And now I can be the very person to finish what the Precursor themselves couldn't." Tech breathed with excitement.
"I guess that means we're on the same side again?" Night asked Tech, who nodded.
"As I said, it was to protect Zelda and try and keep the Gate from being operational. Though I think that in the commotion, everyone has forgotten that-" Tech began to say before he was interrupted by a small alarm going off.
"Jak! Night! Daxter! Come in!" Vin yelled to the trio in their helmets. Tech turned on his radio as well after a moment.
"Vin? What-?" Jak began to ask before Vin cut him off.
"W-w-we've been infiltrated! This psycho's on a rampage, he's already-oh god, there's so much blood!" Vin stammered in horror.
"Vin! What the hell is happening!?" Jak barked at the A.I, who didn't reply.
"I can get us there in a second. Grab my hand, I should have enough energy to get us to the Sanctuary for a one-way trip." Tech said as he held his hand out. Shadow hesitated for a moment before she rested her hand on Tech's hand. Jak and Nightingale hesitated for a moment before they grabbed Tech's hand as well.
And with that the group vanished from the chamber.
Haven City:
Ashelin grabbed Torn's hand as they made their way down the street, walking by Freedom League soldiers running around with supplies for the fight. They walked in silence, enjoying each other's company. It was strange, knowing that this may be one of the last times they could walk the streets together, but nevertheless they enjoyed the small pleasure of each other's company.
"Hey…." Torn said after some time, his voice rather quiet.
"Yeah?"
"You ever wonder why we're here?" Torn asked Ashelin, who laughed quietly.
"That's about as deep as you've ever gotten, Torn." Ashelin laughed.
"Seriously…You ever wonder if the Precursors ever had a reason for making us? Like we were…made for some higher purpose?" Torn asked Ashelin, who shook her head.
"No. I know where I belong, Torn. With this city. With my people. You remember what Starlight said, right?" Ashelin asked the Freedom League Leader, who smirked. The world-famous singer had swung by the Freedom League HQ herself, proclaiming she would help in any way she could, donating a considerable chunk of money to the Freedom League and even saying she would preform for the soldiers to increase morale.
"Of course. It ain't every day a world-famous singer says that she'll be offering her support to us any way she can, even holding a concert within the week to boost morale." Torn chuckled.
"But she was right…In the end, we aren't just protecting the people of Haven City. We're protecting the very…idea, of Haven City." Ashelin said as she continued to walk.
"You're a philosopher too, aren't you ma'am?" one of their guards, a man back the name of John, asked humorlessly.
"I guess so. My father wasn't just some meathead…He had some ideals. I guess he passed some of them onto me…" Ashelin trailed off.
"Your father…" Torn muttered darkly.
"Nothing can ever justify what he did to this city. Nothing…But he also believed this city as an idea, as may people do. Its very namesake was something he believed in. It's a Haven. A Haven from the Metal Heads. A place that, even within a war zone, you can find peace. I've watched this city for years, and I can never stop being amazed at how tenacious and strong this city makes the people who live in it."
"Yeah…This place, in its own twisted way, is a Haven. The times of peace we fight so hard for are just borrowed, but they're so precious to us…Haven City itself isn't some sanctuary, but it's a idea worth fighting for. A place worth fighting for…The hope that maybe, someday…It can be a true Haven."
"It's a shame that your precious haven is about to be defiled yet again, then."
"What!?" Torn growled as the voice from nowhere chuckled at them. The three soldiers readied their weapons while Torn and Ashelin pulled out their weapons.
"I don't know what the Dark Goddess sees in this city. Once upon a time, me and my brothers and sisters lived within these walls. But now…We're here to tear them down, brick by brick and bit by bit…" the voice growled at them.
A man suddenly appeared in front of them, cloaked in Dark Eco. He was flanked by several soldiers in strange looking armor, also radiating Dark Eco.
"Strange, what perspective does to a man. You get the blessing of the Dark Goddess, and then you start questioning why you were so weak before. Why you just had to struggle…instead of accepting her as your God...accept the Champion of Darkness as your messiah. He who will open the Gate to Darkness and bring her to this world…" the man said quietly, his tone rough.
"Sir…what are-" the guard next to Torn said before the world shimmered next to him. Torn whirled around, only to see a figure cloaked in Dark Eco to appear behind the soldier and run a sword through his back with a harsh laugh. Torn whirled around and fired a shot at the man, only for the figure to vanish away and duck away as Torn fired several more shots at the man, who exploded in a shower of Dark Eco. One of them thrust her hands forward, an arc of purple lightning jutting out and striking the soldier next to Ashelin in the chest and ripping through him, killing him instantly. The three remaining soldiers formed a wall between the enemy and their leaders.
Ashelin aimed her pistol at the man in front and fired, the bullet soaring towards his head, only for several more explosions of Dark Eco to appear in front of her, revealing several more of the Dark Eco soldiers in armor.
A large man with a menacing robotic arm simply raised his hand and fired a burst of Dark Eco from his palm at the three soldiers, who opened fire at the group. The blast of Eco ripped through the soldiers as they formed a human shield save for Johnson, who had dived out of the way to continue the attack against the enemy, who had thrown up barriers of Dark Eco to block the shots from his gunstaff.
"Run! I'll cover you!" Johnson barked to the two Leaders as he opened fire with his gunstaff again and again. The lead Hunter silently dove out of the way from the man's gunfire, pulling out a wicked-looking sniper rifle with one hand and firing it with aiming. Johnson dove to the side and fired again, getting the Hunter twice with his gunstaff and causing him to take a step back before he fired a ball of Dark Eco at Johnson, who let out a scream of agony and fell to the ground, twitching in agony as the Dark Eco seeped into his body. It had all happened within seconds.
"Pathetic…" the Hunter muttered as he walked over to the fallen soldier, eyeing Torn and Ashelin as they aimed their weapons at the Hunter.
"Torn and Ashelin, the two most dangerous people in Haven City to us…You two will be leading the crusade against us." Doppelganger said with a small sigh, shaking his head.
"Who are you? And why are you here?" Torn growled at the Hunter.
"I am Deadshot, one of the Hunters that you will be fighting by the end of the week. And all we wanted was a simple meeting. Nothing more. We wanted to see you all for ourselves, before the battle. The fight later on may not allow us such a…opportunity." Violet said after a moment, lightning crackling around her fingers.
Deadshot moved forward, only for a blur of motion to throw itself at him. A lurking Freedom League soldier, one who had heard the commotion and was waiting for a chance to strike, had lunged at Deadshot with his gunstaff raised. Deadshot ducked under the swing and slammed a fist into the man's chest, caving in the armor and crushing his head within his own body, Dark Eco pumping into the man's chest as well, before tearing his hand into the man's body completely, spraying the ground with crimson.
"Damn you…" Torn snarled, taking a step back as the Hunter's raised their weapons.
"We are coming. We will not stop until she arrives. We will always fight. We will be ready, standing behind our Champion, to herald the coming of the Dark Goddess." Deadshot said to Torn, lowering the Freedom League soldier and tossing him to the ground like a child.
"Y-you…What the hell are you?" Torn hissed at the lead Hunter, who chuckled.
"Funny…I don't really know how to answer that anymore." Deadshot replied before he vanished in a burst of Dark Eco, leaving the trio standing there bewildered as the other Hunters vanished into nothingness as well.
Sanctuary:
Tech swore loudly as they reappeared, as they flashed into existence in the middle of a bloodbath. Several Agents lay on the ground, drenched in blood and unmoving, while alarms blared overhead.
"Is it the Hunters? Why are they here? How are they here?" Night asked as she activated her Eco-Whip.
"The Artifacts that you all have collected over the past few months are essential to activating the gate. I was hoping they wouldn't realize that until later, but it looks like they did. The Precursor Rod we found is the key to activating the Gate to Darkness, according to the Precursor writings I've read." Tech said as he glanced around.
"This way! The Docking Bay!" Tech growled as he turned around.
"Stop that bastard! NOW!" Disten could be heard yelling down the hall.
"Truce?" Jak said to Tech, who nodded.
"I told you they would break in here…And yes. Truce." Tech said as he ran ahead. Jak sighed and followed after him and Shadow, with Nightingale close behind. The group burst into the Docking Bay, where a massive firefight was taking place between a group of Hunters and the Avenging Angels. At the front of the Hunter's side was a lone figure, surging with Dark Eco.
He wore a jet black suit of armor with dark blue decorative designs on it, with a fishbowl-like helmet with horns on top of it. He was armed with a sniper rifle and a scimitar that glowed bright blue at regular intervals. The man threw a wave of Dark Eco from his hand as Chill and Phoenix let loose a wave of fire and ice at him, but the darkness managed to disrupt the attack.
"That's Fathom!" Shadow yelled as the group burst out into the Docking Bay.
"Friend of yours?" Jak asked with a growl.
"He's one of the three Commanders of the Hunters. I don't know much about him, to be honest, but he's brutal even by their standards. He can fight on par with the General, he just doesn't have access to the amount of Dark Eco he does, if what Shadow told me is accurate." Tech said as he stepped forward.
"I don't nearly have enough energy to take him out...We're all still worn out from our fight, but we have to stop him!" Tech said as he kicked off of the ground and flew towards Fathom. The man turned his head slightly and summoned a barrier of Dark Eco, which crackled to life. Tech fired a barrage of missiles at Fathom, causing the shield to crack and falter.
"Its no use…We have the Fragments. We have your artifacts…All of the pieces are in place for the Dark Goddess to rise…" the man said in a chillingly raspy voice as he raised a jet black stone into the air with his other hand.
"All Hail Queen Arranst!" the man roared as a massive burst of Dark Eco erupted from the stone, sending Tech flying backwards. The wave enveloped the group of Hunters, who all vanished without a trace.
"Stephen!" Shadow yelled as she ran towards her fiancé, who had fallen onto the ground.
"Well, that just happened." Chill sighed as she ran over to Jak and Night.
"Is everyone OK?" Jak asked Chill, who shook her head.
"Some may not make it...Royal got hit a few times trying to protect Nymph and Rune, so…" Chill trailed off as her Blade hugged her from behind in a comforting manner.
"No one died. That's a plus," the former Wastelander said with a small smile.
"Small comfort. Havoc got the last Fragment from me and if he's got the artifacts you kept in your office, then the Hunters can summon the Dark Goddess at any time." Tech said with an angry sigh.
"He has the last Fragment!?" Disten yelled out in horror as the other's expressions turned grim.
"Yes…They can summon her whenever they need to. Our only hope is the weapon I found within the Icelands. Its strong enough to end the Metal Heads for good, but I need time." Tech said to the Chief, who sighed.
"We don't have time, Stephen." Disten said in a low voice.
"What the hell happened anyway, Chief?" Jak asked the AA Leader, who shook his head.
"He just appeared and reappeared out of thin air. Bypassed all of the security systems and just stole everything I had in my office…I was only gone for about five minutes to check on how the preparations in Haven City were going. He attacked a few of the technicians and took injured Royal, and made quite a…mess," Disten said in a bewildered way.
"That stone Fathom used is a prototype teleportation gem, powered by Dark Eco. Chances are the Dark Goddess herself helped make that thing strong enough to transport Fathom and his Hunters into the Sanctuary. Its only good for two uses though. One trip there, one trip back. I didn't know they were anywhere close to finishing it." Shadow explained to the others.
"As I said before…The defenses here aren't exactly foolproof." Tech said in an I-told-you-so manner, earning scowls from everyone. He then sighed before saying "Then they have everything they need to open the Gate to Darkness…we're doomed…"
"Is there a way to shut down the Gate?" Jak asked Tech, who shook his head.
"No. The Queen is coming…All that we can do now is hope I can finish the Kedical in time for some kind of attack, but with just a week…I need time. Time we don't have," Tech said as he took his helmet off and ran a hand through his hair.
"So, what exactly are we going to do about you two?" Blade said as he levelled his sword at Tech, whose eyes narrowed.
"Really? After all of this, you're still going to hold a grudge?" Tech sighed, shaking his head.
"Stephen…Can we trust you?" Disten said as he levelled his staff at Tech's heart, with the tip of it glowing white. Tech starred at the tip of the staff with a look of surprise, before looking up at the Chief.
"You can trust me for this…I was only trying to protect those precious to me, Chief…You know this." Tech said with a tired smile. Disten's staff glowed blue for a moment, and the man's mouth twitched as the staff turned white once more.
"And Commander Shadow? Can she be trusted?"
"She would never do anything that might jeopardize my safety. She'll fight with us as well against Arranst and the Hunters. You can trust her." Tech said, causing the staff to turn blue again.
"They're not lying. For now, we fight on the same side. But know that you still have to answer for this betrayal, Stephen." Disten said in a low voice, and after a moment the genius nodded.
"What now Chief?" Blade asked the Leader, who sighed.
"We continue preparing the Watcher for departure. We will arrive in Haven City and lend aid in the upcoming battle. Blade, Chill, Rune. Continue where you left off, and make sure everything we need makes it onto the Watcher. Jak, Night, Tech, Commander Shadow. Follow me."
"You sure you don't want us to follow you, Chief?" Chill asked the older warrior, who smiled wanly.
"I think Jak and Nightingale are more than enough to protect me, should either of the two 'traitors' try anything, Chill." Disten said with a small smile, earning a shrug in response from the soldier.
"I trust your judgment, Chief. I just don't understand you sometimes…" Chill muttered as she sauntered off after her fiancé, who wrapped an arm around Chill's waist and pulled her into a one-armed hug.
"Come with me." Disten said to the group as he began to walk down the hallway. Jak and Nightingale trudged along, beaten and weary after their showdown in the snow with Havoc, Shadow, and Tech. It was clear the two traitors were even more exhausted, with Shadow limping heavily and Tech rolling his shoulder ever few moments with a pained grimace.
Within a few minutes, the group arrived at Disten's office, which he opened. To their horror, the office was torn apart, with books and pieces of furniture and priceless antiques destroyed and burned by Dark Eco. Disten walked over to his desk, which was still intact, and sighed deeply as he sat down in the chair he sat back up again. Arch closed the door, and Disten spoke.
"You four did quite a number on each other, didn't you?" the Avenging Angels leader spoke with a small laugh.
"To be fair, we acted in self-defense." Night said sheepishly, causing Tech to scoff and gesture to his armor.
"Self-defense my ass." The mechanic spat, shaking his head.
"Yeah…I'll be honest though, you throw a really good right hook." Shadow said with a small smile to Nightingale, who nodded and, despite herself, smiled a little.
"Thanks." Night replied before Jak said "Alright, so…What happens now?"
"We continued moving to Haven City, via the Watcher. Our Agents are transferring to Haven City, save for those too injured or too inexperienced as fighters to participate. They will be guarding the Sanctuary while we are gone, and while we depart for the Uvelt Firelands after the battle." Disten said to the group.
"Assuming we survive." Tech muttered.
"Do not dismiss the formidability of Haven City, Spargus, and the Avenging Angels, Stephen. Also, we have Jak and Nightingale on our side, while the Hunters have only Havoc." Disten said to Tech.
"Yes, but any Hunter can take on an Avenging Angel easily at this point. They're not human, not by a long shot." Tech said with an annoyed sigh.
"You must have faith, Stephen…And believe that we can find a way to survive this." Disten said to Tech, who closed his eyes.
"I have to find a way to get the Kedical operational. I'll need my workshop, and time. As much time as I can get. When I get a chance to inspect it, I may need supplies as well…This is a work of destruction os grand the remaining Precursors couldn't finish it…And now that task falls on my shoulders."
"Stephen…" Disten said as he rose to his feet, standing taller than the genius in front of him. A smile passed the old warrior's features as he said in a low voice "All these years, I have watched you spread your wings and improve your mind. Without your skills, the Avenging Angels would not have been able to adapt as we have to combat the Metal Head threat…If anyone can create the magic bullet to end this…It is you."
"I think I can help, actually." Shadow piped up, drawing everyone's attention.
"Dark began keeping secrets from me once he figured out I was engaged to Stephen, but I can give you details about the attack." Shadow said to the Chief, who nodded.
"Anything and everything you can tell us would make all the difference in the world, Commander Shadow." Disten said as he sat back down.
"Just Shadow…I doubt I'll be commanding anything anymore."
"What about the other two commanders?" Tech asked Shadow, who shrugged.
"Fathom has always been a wild card, and he's utterly loyal to Dark. Eclipse has been kind of…distant, lately. I think he may actually be trying to…" Shadow trailed off, looking away.
"I've always kind of thought of Eclipse to be the black sheep of the Hunters. He was never quite as into it as everyone else. Sometimes I wonder if he uses his club as a front to try and get out of doing anything useful for the Hunters. Almost like he was trying to get out."
"Do you think he could be persuaded to help us?" Disten asked Shadow, who frowned.
"I'm not sure. I can try and contact him, but I'm not sure where he loyalties lie." Shadow replied with a small sigh.
"Look into it, if you can. We're all in this together, it would seem." Disten noted with a small smile.
"So, after everything he's done, you're willing to forgive him!?" a sudden voice yelled.
Jak blinked in surprise as Vin appeared in front of Disten, shaking with rage.
"I can't believe you Chief…He attacked you. Killed Arch and almost killed Chase. He all but handed victory to the Hunters and the Metal Head Queen, all because he fell in love with the enemy. And you're just going to let him back into the Avenging Angels?"
"You really don't get just how bad things are, do you?" Tech shot at Vin, who faced him with a look of hate.
"You…If I had a body I'd-"
"Do exactly what you're doing now." Tech said coldly to Vin, who growled audibly before a second flash of blue light appeared next to him. Vin quieted as the new arrival stared Tech down, her expression unreadable.
"I thought I heard you…Welcome back, Stephen." Arch said emotionlessly. Tech winced, but she continued by saying "It's good to see you're still…functioning."
"You as well, Arch…I'm-"
"Save it…In the end you did it for your own selfish reasons. You never know exactly what I'm thinking, and I may have just kept your secret if you had but asked me. If you had been honest with me…But no…You killed me. Vin saved me…So before you ever speak ill of Vin…remind yourself who brought me back from nothingness and remade me as I was before. Better, in fact…Because now I don't have to listen to you, anymore." Arch said coldly before she vanished without a trace.
Vin stood there, speechless, before he vanished as well. Tech looked down at the ground, guilt and self-loathing clear on his face, but Disten spoke once more.
"We can discuss the particulars of your arrangement in a few hours. Until then, you two go down to Tech's workshop and begin work on the weapon you found. I'll have someone escort you there so you won't be attacked on sight."
"Jak, Nightingale…You two should rest up for a little while, and then join in the predations. Move anything you need to have with you to the Watcher. Night can help set up a room onboard the ship for you."
"That's all for now…Dismissed." Disten said to the group of soldiers, who began to make their way out of the office. Tech offered one glance back at Disten before the door closed, and the Chief was left alone with his thoughts. He reached within his desk, and pulled out his most treasured possession, Gallus's Journal, and felt a cold pang of abject horror as the journal fell out of his hand and onto the battered desk.
The pages of the journal, an artifact from his godfather that had held so much knowledge and wisdom, was torn apart. Most of the pages were either ripped out or illegible. Disten felt a great searing rage burn within him as he examined the journal for any trace of something that wasn't destroyed, before he noticed the final page of the journal was undamaged. However, someone had written in blood red ink several lines in Precursor across the page. Disten sighed deeply, trying to dispel his anger at the level of disrespect shown to his godfather, before he began trying to translate the text.
He would get to the bottom of this, one way or another.
Precursor Core:
Daxter blinked in surprise as he reappeared in a familiar room. A large platform in the center of a large spherical room. He was in the earth's core, where the Precursor's had hidden themselves for years, awaiting those who were worthy to meet them and receive their gifts…
Like him.
He had dismissed his condition for years, thinking he was cursed. He was transformed from his normal, handsome, human self, into a small furry (yet no less handsome, mind you) rodent without pants. Ridiculed and pretty much defenseless…Jak was the only reason he had survived this long. Oh sure, he had helped from time to time, but Jak was the real hero…He had always been the hero, and despite what he boasted, Daxter knew that in his heart of hearts he was but the comic-relief. Jak was the one who had made the sacrifices, who had lost parts of his humanity to become the hero he needed to become.
When he had broken Jak out of the prison, he had realized that despite his efforts, Jak was still the better man. Strong, unyielding, brave, and he made him feel like he was nothing. Not purposely, of course. Jak was the best friend a guy could ask for, and was always supporting him no matter what.
But…he couldn't help but feel how hollow his boasting had become, when he didn't believe a word of it himself…
But that was when he met Tess. Someone who overlooked his strange appearance (finding him adorable to his surprise) and loved him for his loud, hilarious, and dashing personality. Sure, she was a bit overbearing at times, but this was the first time he felt normal again. Like he was truly like what he always bragged to her that he was.
A hero….Just like Jak.
And then he learned the truth…That he was not cursed with his condition, but was in fact blessed by the Dark Eco and transformed into a Precursor. A God. Him.
He has merely stumbled upon the incredible powers that lay within his furry body, and now the Precursors had sent him here. Apparently…to show him what they could truly do. Another flash of light appeared next to him, and to his surprise Tess appeared next to him, crossing her arms as the Precursors appeared in front of them.
"You furballs better tell me what the big idea is before I shove my foot up your-Daxter! My little hero, you!" Tess yelled cheerfully as she noticed her boyfriend hugged Daxter tightly. Daxter smiled and returned the embrace, saying "Good to see you, sugar."
"Awww, should we leave you two alone so you can repopulate our race?" Elis laughed, causing Daxter's face to heat up and cause Tess to cross her arms in indignation.
"You are the only remaining female Precursor, my dear. Just a thought." Usano said with a small laugh, earning a middle finger in response.
"Very well, very well…Let us get down to business, shall we?" Usano said to the ottsel couple, who frowned.
"Why did you bring us here? Why…us? And why bring Tess into this?" Daxter asked the Precursor Leader, who smiled slightly.
"We have a task for you, Daxter, and for you, Tess. One final request, as it were." Usano said softly, walking forward.
"Well…Let's hear it." Daxter said impatiently, tapping his foot.
"There are five of our number left. Us three…And you and Tess. You both are new to this. Being deities in a world of our creation. But we think it is time we teach you what we can…To learn how to truly use the powers we have blessed you with." Usano said as he raised his staff.
"We want you, Daxter, to become the new protector of this planet. To go deep within the Earth's Core and watch over the planet." Usano said in a soft voice, smiling at Daxter, who blinked in surprise.
"M-me? You…want me to replace you guys?" Daxter asked quietly, utterly dumbfounded.
"It is a tall order, I know…But power rushes through your veins, something you have only learned but recently. You have the power to create life and destroy planets. To perform miracles and to save many…You are a Precursor, Daxter. It is time we showed you just what the Metal Heads have to fear from a small furry rodent."
"Our powers are formidable, despite what we have said in the past. We are old, older beyond compare and at the end of the line…Whereas you and Tess are young and can still develop into incredible Precursors." Usano said to the two ottsels, who nodded.
"Daxter, we are giving you the chance to be the hero you have always wanted to truly be. You have always contributed whenever you could, but now…It is your time to shine, my fellow Precursor. It is time for you to embrace your destiny, and protect this world and be the hero that you have always wanted to be." Usano said with a smile to Daxter, who looked away.
"I…Me? All this time, I could only help Jak whenever I could. Just the sidekick and the support…And now you're giving me a chance to be a hero like him?" Daxter asked Usano, but he was cut off by Tess.
"Daxter…Just because you're not the guy holding the gun or the guy wielding the Eco powers, doesn't make you any less of a hero…especially to me." Tess said as she looked at Daxter, adoration and respect in her eyes.
"Tess…" Daxter said quietly, but she went on.
"This is just a chance for you to take on an even bigger role than you have in the past. Was Jak chosen to be a Precursor?" Tess asked Daxter, who smiled a little.
"Actually, yeah he was. But Count Vinegar got the gift instead." Daxter then paused and looked at the Precursors and asked "What happened to him, anyway?"
"Oh, Count Veger? Lessee…" Elis said as he put a finger to his chin while Usano closed his eyes and shuddered.
"If you must know…the man known as Kleiver, who had taken in the Count as a sort of sidekick…ate him some time ago." Usano said with a disgusted tone.
"HE ATE HIM!?" Tess yelled in horror.
"That fat bastard…I thought he was kidding when he said he wanted to eat me…" Daxter said with a shudder.
"I'm going to hunt down that fat son of a bitch and…Wait, what am I talking about? This is Count Veger…I guess its alright." Tess said after a moment, shrugging.
"Yes…Despite the fact that we lost another member of our race, I think losing the Count is no big deal." Usano said with a small laugh.
"So, back to the matter at hand?" Elis said to Usano, who nodded.
"Of course. Daxter, Tess speaks the truth. You may feel as though you haven't been important, but do you think Jak could have done everything he's done without you on his shoulder? Without your support? You've done a great many things, young one, and you are a hero in your own right. This is simply a chance to ascend to greater heights and become a true hero, and perhaps increase the Earth's chance of survival." Usano explained to Daxter, who nodded.
"You, of course, are totally able to learn alongside Daxter, Tess. He can't do this without your support, you know?" Elis said giving Tess a thumbs up.
"Someone's gotta look out for my little baby." Tess said as she wrapped an arm around Daxter.
"We will teach you everything we know. You will not truly be alone, for the memories of our race our long and will guide you along the way. Much of our technology can be accessed from here, so you may make and create whatever you wish, so you may create new technologies to grace the world with. In fact...You two could even begin our race anew."
Daxter felt his face heat up as Tess giggled at the implications, but then Usano grew serious.
"Daxter…We have failed. We were unable to stop Arranst and her forces eons ago, and it is only through the efforts of the heroes, that we merely guided along the way, that this planet exists at all."
"You did give Jak his Light form." Tess pointed out, though Usano shook his head.
"A small token so he could go on to save the world again. The point is this. We must take responsibility for our failure to the Universe and make a stand against the Dark Goddess. It is important to think of the future. Perhaps you two will go on to lead the Precursors back to their former glory."
"Or ruin the legacy of your race completely. You do know who this bozo is, right?" Elis said as he jerked a thumb towards Daxter with a smirk.
"Hey!" Daxter yelled.
"Kidding bro. We totally have faith that you can do this. Besides, you're a hero dude. Even if you don't think you are." Elis said as he gave Daxter a thumbs up.
"I…This is a lot, guys. It really is…But if it can help Jak and the others…Then I'll do it. I'll learn whatever you need me to." Daxter said as Tess hugged him tightly
"I'm so proud of you." Tess whispered as she let go of Daxter.
"Hey, with the two of us watching over things. Everything will be fine." Daxter said with a grin.
"That's the spirit! Now…let's begin." Usano said as he clasped his hands, both of them glowing bright white.
1 Week Later:
Saturday Evening:
11:34 P.M.
The move to Haven City was quite an arduous one, a move so big the author couldn't be bothered to write about it. The Watcher now rested in the Port, while some of the top Agents in the Avenging Angels began assisting the citizens of Haven City all they could.
Vin and Arch began establish a line of communication between themselves and the soldiers, and began designing strategies and even traps to spring on the enemy. The two A.I. seemed to work very well together, so everyone kind of just let them do whatever.
Just three days before the battle, Blade and Chill were officially wed, due to Blade's insistence on doing it before they fight for their lives in an epic fight with the Metal Head Queen's forces. Chief Disten presided over the ceremony, with Sharpshooter being Blade's best man and Jak himself being the ring-bearer (having only been given the ring the night before due to the suddenness of the wedding). The Avenging Angels celebrated the newly wed couple's union with a massive party, using it as a reprieve from the preparations of war and to enjoy themselves before the conflict.
All too soon, it was the night before the battle…The city slumbered, while the more prominent fighters who would be in the battle in just a few short hours remained awake, with sleep eluding them.
Nightingale stood on the room of the new Freedom League HQ, tapping her SMG's in a rather bored manner as she watched the city below her. The waiting was wearing on her, and despite the threat of peril, there was nothing to do.
Preparation had been made to an alarming degree. Ammo stockpiles were at strategic points and the Avenging Angels were scattered throughout the city, mix in with the Wastelanders and Freedom League soldiers. Due to how the enemy would be attacking, they could only prepare for the attack by just waiting for it to happen. It was to be a merciless attack from all angles, from above and below and from everywhere.
Nightingale shivered for a moment before a familiar voice said "I figured you'd be up here."
Night turned around and saw Torn looking at her with an amused look, though his eyes were sad. He sighed and walked over to her. Nightingale felt a stab of hate in her towards the man who had abandoned her to the Marauders, but she suppressed it.
"So…How're you holding up?" Torn asked Night.
"Well enough. I'm restless though…I hate waiting for a fight." Night muttered, earning a small chuckle from Torn.
"Same with me. Though a reprieve from the action is never a bad thing. Gives you time to think. Reflection…You never know when you'll finally get put down, if this fight will finally be your last." Torn said in a low voice, looking out towards the horizon.
"I guess so…You've been a soldier for way longer though. I can't imagine how it was like in Haven City, back when the Baron was in control." Night said to Torn, who looked down.
"I thought I was helping people. I thought I was making a difference. I joined the Krimzon Guard so I could help keep order and help make things right. Maybe…Maybe make up for what I did back at the Stronghold…" Torn began, his voice sorrowful and reflective. She realized that, despite all these years, she never tired of hearing his voice. Time and experience had made it rough, but it still managed to hold her attention like nothing else.
"I worked my way through the Guard, learning some tricks here and there that made me a better soldier. I met Ashelin, and…well, I fell for her. I'll deny it if you ever bring it up, but she's got a plan for this city. To make things right. She always cared about the people and this city, but she's determined and tough and…I'll stop there."
"It was her that made me see the light. That what the Guard was doing to this city wasn't all that great. We were suppressing them. We were hurting them, and as for the Metal Heads…they became more of an annoyance than a problem."
"I join the Underground some time later, leaving the Guard. I was…relentless against the Baron. I had grown to hate him for his lies…What he had made me do, in the name of keeping the peace. Anger gave me…clarity, I guess, because I managed to lead a few missions of my own against the Krimzon Guard and rose through the ranks in the Underground, until I was leading it alongside the Shadow."
"You did good, during that time. People looked to you for hope, you know. You even managed to look out for Jak and Daxter when they came along." Night said quietly, but Torn shook his head.
"Yeah…But in the end, who helped take down the Baron? Who went on suicide missions to deal heavy blows to the Baron? As for me…I sold out the Underground. The Baron was going to kill Ashelin, his own damn daughter, unless I gave my friends up…"
"Jak told me about that…Looks like they forgave you pretty quickly." Night replied, as Torn shook his head.
"Of course they did…What good are grudges in a war? I did what I had to do for Ashelin…I couldn't just…"
"Leave her for dead?" Night finished, and Torn nodded, his mouth curling into a bitter smile at the situation.
"I didn't want to make the same mistake I did before…Do I let the woman I cared about die, or give up my friends? It's a lose-lose situation…"
"I'm glad I never had to make a choice like that…I don't know what I would've done." Night said quietly after a moment.
"It's a war. You've got to make sacrifices for the things you love." Torn replied gruffly.
"Does that make you a soldier then, Jakob? Because all I hear is just Jak doing stuff, not you. Hell, I'm more of a soldier than you ever were." Night said with a slight laugh, causing Torn to scowl.
"I still never pegged you for a soldier, kiddo." Torn said to Night, who shook her head.
"I had to do what I had to do. When you're a Marauder, and believe me when I say I became a Marauder, you learn to adapt. Become hard. Become…stronger, I guess."
"You grew up." Torn summarized, and after a beat Nightingale nodded.
"I guess so…I had to. Otherwise I would've died. I was all alone back there…All alone…" Nightingale said in a whisper.
"Iris…"
"No. You have no right to call me by my real name, you backstabbing bastard!" Nightingale snarled at Torn, who took a step back as Light Eco glowed into existence around Nightingale, who willed it away.
"I'm not who I used to be, alright! I changed so I could protect this city, alright! You got out in the end and you're fine, so get over it!" Torn shot at Night, who laughed bitterly in reply and began walking away from Torn.
"Fine he says…You have no idea…You have no idea what those monsters did to me day after day before they broke my spirit. They kept reminding me that the one person who cared about me had stabbed me in the back. That my hero had turned on me…That you were nothing more than a monster yourself."
Torn looked away, his expression unreadable, before he said "I'm sorry...Iris, I truly am…I know nothing I say can make things right, but believe me when I say that if there was I could have saved you I would have taken it."
Nightingale spun around, activating her Light Mode and lunging at Torn. She tackled him to the ground and jammed both of her SMG's into his face, her lips curled into a snarl.
"Why? Why!? Why did you betray me? Break your promise and stab me in the back!? WHY!?" Nightingale yelled at Torn.
"Because I was scared!" Torn yelled furiously, advancing towards Nightingale, who blinked at the answer before a bitter smile crossed her face. She got off of Torn, trying to get her emotions under control as Torn got to his feet.
"Scared?" Nightingale repeated in disbelief.
"Yes…Damn it, I was scared. I was a pathetic coward! Even now I'm scared, Iris-" Torn admitted with a note of hate in his voice before Nigtingale cut him off again, the light around her flaring.
"You? Scared? The fierce leader of the Freedom League, scared?" Nightingale laughed coldly before she held out her hand, a ball of Light Eco forming in her hands. She fired it into Torn's chest, sending him crashing onto the ground with a howl of pain. Torn tried to sit up, but a metal foot stomped on his chest and sent him to the ground again.
"You're pathetic. You were scared? YOU were scared? Did ever stop to consider how scared I was? How scary the big bad men who kept hurting me were? I was just a little girl, Jakob…And you let them hurt me. You broke your promise…You left me alone…All because you were scared?" Nightingale whispered to Torn, who swore under his breath and looked away.
"Yes…Back then I was just trying to escape the city. I was scared of the Baron and the Metal Heads…I lied about why I was leaving the city…truth is that I thought I could escape to Spargus or Kras City, somewhere safer. I was terrified for my life in the Marauder Stronghold, Iris…I was terrified I would die."
"And then you showed me a bit of light that made me feel braver. I finally had something that made me feel like a man, instead of a kid. I managed to tough out the beatings and the torture, all because of the green-eyed little girl who hero-worshipped me back at our cell…"
"But…I was scared, even when we devised our plan to escape. I was scared it would fail, that things wouldn't go right and that they'd hurt us even worse. That they'd kill you…kill me…So yeah…I was scared, Iris."
"I figured that if they saw me stab you in the back, they wouldn't kill you outright, giving me time to escape…Stupid, really. Just heat of the moment thoughts that seem so stupid, now…"
"You're right. Not only are you a coward, but you're stupid too." Night said coldly to her former friend.
"That's why I decided to join the Guard, and after that, form the Underground with the help of the Shadow, young Samos…It was my way of trying to make things right. After the Baron fell, I decided to take charge of the Freedom League…It was all because I wanted to try and make things right, because of what I had done…Maybe somewhere along the way I made a difference…But you were my greatest regret, Iris…I have never stopped being scared for you, wondering if you ever made it out of that Fortress alive…" Torn said with a heavy sigh.
Nightingale starred down the Leader of the Freedom League for a long while, thinking, before finally stepping off of Torn and allowing him to slowly get to his feet. Nightingale turned back towards the moon, reverting to her normal form.
"Get away from me…I need some time to think…" Night said with a tired sigh of her own, crossing her arms.
"Yeah…Alright. Just…Don't stay out here all night, OK?" Torn said in a low voice before he turned around and headed back to the building. As Torn walked through the doors, he was greeted by Ashelin, whose expression was unreadable.
"I know you told me what happened between you and her…But hearing her then, it makes me wonder how much a man could possibly change." Ashelin said quietly, her features softening into a small smile.
"No…I was a piece of shit before. I have to be brave so others can be brave too. We have to be strong, even if we don't want to be…We have to make choices that we aren't proud of to survive. I did that for you, and I did that with her…I've always been nothing but a coward, Ashelin…and admitting that to her hurt."
"Pride is a hard thing to let go of, but I think you just made a step towards making things right with her…Come on, we should get some sleep. Tommorow…Well, we'll need every bit of sleep we can get for what's to come." Ashelin said with a small shrug as she grabbed Torn's hand. Torn and Ashelin walked off, even as another figure walked by then, bidding them goodnight before walking out the door to where Nightingale waited.
He waited a few moments, debating whether or not it was his place, before deciding to walk over to her. Nightingale started for a moment, surprised at the new arrival.
"Blade? What are you doing here?" Night asked the swordsman, who shrugged.
"We're back in Haven, and staying at the Freedom League HQ on the night of the biggest fight of our lives. Couldn't sleep, naturally. Even more so than I usually don't." Blade said, laughing at his own joke.
Nightingale noted that he had his gloves off, proudly showing his wedding band, and said "You seem…so happy."
"I am…Marriage does that to you, Night. You'll find out yourself when you're older. Trust me." Blade laughed as he walked forward, gripping the railing in front of him.
"Tomorrow's the day…You nervous?" Nightingale shook her head in response, causing Blade to laugh and say "Of course you're not. You've got Eco Powers and a prophecy saying you'll make it to the final battle…Yeah, you'll be fine."
"Are you saying you don't fancy your chances, Blade?" Night asked after a moment, but to her surprise Blade shook his head.
"Not at all. I just know that in a battle this…big, that people will die. Its part of war. Its why I tried to distance myself from Nicole for so long. Because you lose people in war, and the closer that person is to you…the more you bleed when their torn away from you…" Blade said as he looked up, sighing deeply.
"Yeah…" Night murmured, thinking of everyone the group had lost, over the years. Even their own personal losses were many…The Avenging Angels were founded on the concept of grief, and of a greater family. A family of the ones left behind, and of those willing to punish those who had taken their loved ones away from them.
"But in the end, love is what makes everything better. When I proposed to Nicole, I knew exactly what I was doing. We even got married a few days ago, just because we both knew that we'd probably die in this fight…Life is short, so why spend it bitter? Why hate, when you can love? Why resent, when you can forgive?"
"You think I should forgive him?" Night asked incredulously.
"No…But I think you need to let go. He regrets what he's done, and from the look on his face, he spilled his heart out to you just now. I think you may be the only person he trusted enough to do that, Night." Blade said lightly.
"Maybe…I don't know, Blade…There's just too much hurt there." Night said softly as a breeze blew by, blowing her black mane behind her. Blade stood up tall and turned to her, smiling, and put a hand on her shoulder.
"You're still young, at heart, Night. You've spent half of your life nursing this hurt. No one's asking you to forgive him outright…But you have to let go sometime…It's a big step, but I know you'll figure something out in time…Its just a thought…" Blade said to Night before he added "We should head inside. Jak might start getting worried, and I have a sex-crazed wife to get back to."
"I hope she isn't too rough on you tonight. We need you for the fight tomorrow." Nightingale joked, causing Blade to chuckle as the two made their way down the pathway.
"I think of it as a warm up exercise for the main event. I'm just worried about what she has in mind for after the battle…I may not walk for weeks." Blade said with a wince, causing Nightingale to laugh.
The two soldiers entered the building and began making their way back to their rooms, to rest and prepare themselves for what would happen in but a few short hours…
The Next Morning:
Jak woke to the sound of his door being pounded on, with a yell from Blade to wake him and Nightingale up. The duo silently suited up and readied their weapons, making sure they had plenty of ammo and their Eco stores were good. The two held hands as they slipped out of their room in the Freedom League HQ and began making their way outside, eyeing the city.
Soldiers stood in the streets as the first bits of light peaked out over the horizon. Jak walked over to Chill and Blade, and was surprised when he found Chase standing next to Sharpshooter, Rune, and Phoenix as well. He was wearing a tan-colored suit of armor with dark red designs flowing around the armor, with a gunstaff on his back and two pistols as his sidearms.
"I thought you said you weren't ready to fight?" Jak asked the former Hunter, who shrugged.
"Meh. I can't resist a chance to fight. I have to contribute somehow, you know?" Chase said with a small laugh as he put his helmet on.
"Thank you, Chase." Night said with a smile, earning a nod in reply before the Chief walked up to them. The Chief was clad in his own armor, a shining white suit that was lined with gold decorative designs and adorned with Precursor bronze around his hands. An array of knives and pistols were attached to various parts of his armor, but his trademark staff was in his right hand.
In his other was a very familiar-looking piece of gun tech that Jak felt himself smiling at, even more so when Disten placed the gun mod in his hand.
"As I understand it, you have some of the mods for your upgraded Morph Gun, but you haven't been allowed to get all of them. I think we can bend the rules on weapon's limitations just this once…I believe you're familiar with this piece of tech." Disten said as Jak pulled out is Morph Gun, attaching the small Metal Head-looking gun piece to the end of his gun, transforming it…
Into the Peace Maker.
Jak grinned as he charged up a shot, but let the energy fade away as he lowered the gun. He didn't want to waste any ammo, not when it could save him or someone else later. Jak thanked the Chief, who nodded before a loud boom reverberated throughout the city.
"Its begun." Shadow said quietly as Tech grabbed her hand and gave it a light squeeze before he drew a single pistol, which began glowing green. Each of the Avenging Angels, scattered throughout the city, drew their weapons and readied themselves for what was to come.
"Looks like I'm just in time!" a familiar voice suddenly boomed behind Jak, who felt a hand clap him on the back. Jak looked to his side and saw to his relief the King of Spargus, Sig.
"Hey Sig. Good to have you here." Jak said with a grin.
"Wouldn't miss it for the world! Where's Daxter at?" Sig asked Jak, who shrugged.
"He'll turn up…I think." Jak said after a moment before he was cut off by a yell.
"Look! Up in the air!" Rune yelled suddenly, pointing to the sky.
Jak looked up, swearing colorfully as objects all over the city began to fly into the air, only to expand into rings. Hundreds and hundreds of them…
"Warp Gates…" Tech growled as he clenched his fists.
"Just as I said. And Queen Arranst will be arriving in the same manner. She'll travel here from the Gate to Darkness, and then go through a Warp Gate here." Shadow said as she tightened her grip on her sickle.
"We'll stop them before it gets to that point." Jak growled.
"Oh no…" Rune murmured, gripping Aptos tightly. Sharpshooter and Chase exchanged a look for a moment, before.
"ATTENTION HAVEN CITY!"
"General Dark…" Chase growled, tightening his hands into fists.
"You all have fought well, over the centuries. You have resisted the Metal Heads for years upon years, you have resisted a tyrant who wished to oppress you…And you even held us off when we revealed our loyalties to the world…"
"But there will be no more resistance…No more fighting…After today…You will submit."
"Never…" Ashelin hissed. Torn put a hand on her shoulder, and the two shared a glance before the sky overhead rumbled, with bolts of Dark Eco rippling through the sky as the Rift Gates activated.
"We call forth our allies from the Metal Head homeworld, where our Queen resides. These brave knights, our brothers in arms against those who fight against Lady Arranst…With the might of the Metal Heads and the Hunters, this city will finally fall. It will take its last breath. It…will die…" Dark said to the people of Haven City, a note of twisted glee in his voice as he spoke the last words.
Aimperditor, the strongest of the Metal Heads, materialized out of the gates alongside their weaker brethren. Giant monstrosities and slithering beasts straight out of the depths of nightmares appeared from the skies and the earth, or appearing in bursts of Eco.
"This speech…" Disten murmured, tightening his grip on his staff, causing the tip to glow bright white. The Chief was quite intimidating in his white and gold armor, polished to a gleaming shine while several guns were attached to his armor. Jak felt himself glad to stand by the old warrior in this fight.
"Alright everyone! This is it! This may be our last fight! The odds are certainly stacked against us, but we didn't go through all of this hell to back down now! Show these scum to fear our name!" Ashelin yelled to the soldiers, who cheered and roared in approval.
"Never surrender! Don't ever back down…Keep fighting until the end!" Torn growled loudly, earning another roar of approval.
"OK Chili peppers! I'm not one to mince words, so I'll keep this short and sweet! Kick their sorry asses and show them how Wastelanders take care of business!" Sig yelled to his followers, who cheered for their King.
The Avenging Angels looked to the Chief for a moment, who watched the Metal Heads as they finally landed on the ground and as the Hunters emerged from the shadows, weapons gleaming. Disten stirred, taking a deep breath to fortify himself, before activating his staff, which shuddered to life with a surge of Light Eco.
"For Haven City. For the Precursors. For every single one our loved ones who have fallen to these monsters! ATTACK, MY AVENGING ANGELS! ATTACK WITH ALL OF YOUR MIGHT!" Disten bellowed as the Metal Heads began to swarm ferociously and guns rang out through the morning. Jak and Nightingale grasped hands for one moment before letting go and firing their weapons, fierce expressions on their faces.
The Final Battle of Haven City had begun.
End of Chapter:
Alright, next chapter we'll take a moment and look back at the history of the Avenging Angels, before we hop right into the action in chapter 40!
I'll be back sometime soon with the next chapter, until then, please drop a review in the section below and let me know what you thought! Seriously, I spend hour on end writing this things and it takes just a minute to leave a review and let me know what you thought of the chapter.
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Until next time, FlygonNick out!