84 pages...13,399 words...7 deaths...the biggest and most hectic chapter ever. Nothing in the future is this big.

Get ready.

Chapter Fifty Nine

Midnight Bastion: The Students

To the west of the Midnight Bastion is the caravan of King Gra'Tisk and Queen Yi'Pyre. The queen was watching her husband as he met with some of the army commanders. They were giving him progress reports on the war at hand, losses, ground gained or lost and rough estimations of how the other allies fair.

Another guard broke away from the King and approached her "Everything is proceeding, Mistress…though not without a few bumps."

Mistress narrowed her eyes "What…bumps?"

"Duke has been found out and given up all methods to conceal himself again, he is waging open war against his own people behind the Bastion."

Rolling her eyes the Mistress eyed Gra'Tisk again before turning to the guard "What of Hierarch?"

"He is still in position. Hrodath is dead but Peltzm'Jakq is being held up by a stranger…we assume he is a member of the Emissaries but he avoided or killed most of our scouts before engaging Peltzm'Jakq."

Mistress thought this over and spoke, to no one in particular "Peltzm'Jakq can handle it…he has yet to fail…what of Talia?"

The guard coughed and took one step back "Taer'Vix and Org'Eeris are dead, the Queen still lives."

Mistress clenched her fists as Gra'Tisk sent away the guards and returned to her sides "My Queen, are you alright."

With a false smile, Yi'Pyre nodded "Of course."

As Gra'Tisk turned away he began recalling what the guards said but the Queen ignored him, lost in her own thoughts.

"These Emissaries have ruined everything we've been working towards…I didn't want to resort to the failsafe but if Peltzm'Jakq should fail and Duke should fall…it is my only choice. FATE will be mine."

"Do you think-"

"I know they'll be fine. We've got more pressing matters to attend to."

Mikel cast one last look back at the room they left Soren and Mia in as the Emissaries now followed Ike through the Bastion.

He turned as Leena put a hand on his shoulder "We've fought alongside Soren and Mia since the beginning of this whole debacle, have faith."

As Mikel nodded Eien looked around the barren halls "The room they were in…the pictures on the walls were far too modern for anything from the Dark Days of War…"

"What does that mean, exactly?" Wayu asked.

"This whole palace, the Midnight Bastion, how was it created? Where did it even come from?"

At Eien's question Ike also examined the walls they walked by "I somewhat recall that The Fell Lord summoned it…maybe he used the power of the Orichalcum or something."

As they rounded a corner they came to another open room with a staircase in the far back. Looking at the room more closely Mertre recognized it.

"Benkanan."

Ike turned "What?"

"This is the Benkanan throne room…after it was refurbished following your battle with Zijo Oit."

Ike looked around and slowly began to realize that Mertre was right "How?"

"The Blade of Sacae, the Crimson Flash, the Mercenary…I'm certain those are swordsmen and women Mia liked talking a lot about. She trained in their styles whenever we had some free time." Janie pointed out, recalling the room they left the Trueblade and Tactician in.

The group continued and ascended a staircase with Mikel scratching his head "So what? Did the Fell Lord use memories of everyone near him to build this whole place out of nothing? C'mon that's ridiculous!"

The group fell silent as Mikel sighed "Or it could be exactly what he did…"

"If he could do something like this with no effort at all…"

Leena trailed off as they came to a massive door.

Ike narrowed his eyes as a voice came to him "You are going to need me…"

"We need to stop him…as soon as possible."

Roaring, Gashuuka swung his axe around creating a circle of explosions all around him. Ranulf slipped through a few and latched onto the Berserker Lord's back. As Gashuuka turned and attempted to grab him Titania leapt from her horse and slammed her axe into the large man's chest. As she fell to the ground and rolled away Tyse flew in, screeching and used both his legs to kick the end of the axe and bury it deeper into the armor.

Finally grabbing Ranulf, Gashuuka slammed him into the ground and looked up as two rays of light hit him in the face. Tyse grabbed Ranulf and flew away from Gashuuka as four orbs of black magic appeared. With a wave of his arm, Teiaya crushed Gashuuka between his magic.

Now dazed, Leah leapt in and slashed through Gashuuka's arm and armor. Regaining vision the Berserker Lord took hold of Leah's arm as he swung his blade again. With a wide swing he threw Leah high above him then used his now free hand to tear the axe out of his chest plate.

Tyse flew by and plucked Leah out of the sky as Cadeera, Rhys and Teiaya's magic continued to smash into the Berserker Lord, keeping him back.

As Leah landed he groaned "That guy almost crushed my arm…are you alright Ranulf?"

The cat nodded "Yeah…but I don't think he's getting any closer to staying down…we've gotten rid of some of his armor but we've barely wounded him."

As Gashuuka broke out of the magic bind he swung his axe towards them. "Get back!" Tyse yelled from above as the Emissaries were covered by explosions.

With very few words to one another, Volke and Peltzm'Jakq shot forward. The Fireman kept Baselard at the ready as Peltzm'Jakq's broadswords prepared to swing.

With intense speed Volke began dodging Night and Curse as well as threatening Peltzm'Jakq's position. The Master of the Altar was thoroughly surprised having doubted the man's claims of his abilities. As Peltzm'Jakq continued to move back and slash towards the foreigner he smiled "Where did you learn your techniques?"

Remaining silent Volke continued to focus and eventually Baselard caught Night. The assassin reached into his cloak and threw out Peshkatz. Peltzm'Jakq leapt away quickly and swung Curse, knocking Peshkatz to the ground. Volke pursued and kicked Peltzm'Jakq's arm away before spinning and striking his left leg with Baselard.

Angry the Altar Leader stepped forward and slashed with both of his blades, barely ripping through Volke's scarf as the man leapt away.

"You."

Re'Zin who was still on the ground turned "Me?"

"You came here not to fight Peltzm'Jakq…whatever the reason you are here, go attend to it."

Re'Zin thought briefly before nodding and starting to stand as Peltzm'Jakq tackled Volke to the ground. The pair quickly rolled to their feet and engaged each other again. Volke avoided the savage attacks and flipped over Peltzm'Jakq. As he landed the Altar leader spun quickly and slashed through Volke's back. The assassin ignored it and leapt over to his discarded Peshkatz. Picking it up, he sheathed Baselard and took out another knife "Come on."

Smirking Peltzm'Jakq charged forward again and began swinging Night and Curse swiftly and dangerously. Volke himself dodged as close to the blades as possible, his knives scraping up and down the steel as they tried to get closer to the Trueblade before him.

Re'Zin, now limping away turned to see the combat. It was almost impossible to see the arms of the men or their weapons, only the constant sound of metal hitting and scraping against metal.

Re'Zin shook his head as he turned to see Hrodath on the ground "What made me think I could stand up to that monster…King Hrodath, I'm sorry…I swear to you that I won't let your Queen follow you…"

Nodding to himself the Nomad limped away from the deadly battle.

The Fell Lord crossed his arms and smiled "Finally…I've been patient for countless generations…seeing you all standing before me at the end of everything…is an unbelievable relief."

"We didn't come here to talk!" Ike yelled.

The Fell Lord nodded "Yes…but my men here won't let you get to me without a little effort."

Midnight 12 cracked his knuckles as Ushnae sighed. The Midnight Apothecary stood still as the Emissaries took a few steps forward.

"You've all made a terrible mistake…"

Mikel laughed "Exactly what I wanted to tell you!"

"Shall we, my Fell Lord?"

With a vile smile the Fell Lord nodded "Have at them."

"Break them up!" Ike yelled as he shot forward.

Eien and Janie nodded and sent forth walls of black between Ushnae, Midnight 12 and the Apothecary. The walls exploded pushing Ushnae to the far left and the Apothecary to the far right just as Ragnell was caught by Midnight 12's hand.

"Where is my blade?" The Midnight asked as Ike took Ragnell back and kicked the being in the chest.

Before the Midnight could move forward it spotted Mertre's oncoming javelin and grabbed it out of the air before snapping it in two.

Eien looked to the Apothecary as he created a massive orb of black magic above him. He threw it towards Janie, Mikel, Leena and Wayu as they attacked Ushnae.

Quickly she shot a small bolt through it, disrupting the magic flow and breaking it apart above the other Emissaries.

The Apothecary turned as she landed in front of him and swung her arm, unleashing Verrine across the Apothecary's chest.

"Eien…"

"Nias. Ulmeihn. Mazear. I'm going to free you from this dark spirit!"

As the black magic erupted to the west Mikel, Leena and Wayu's weapons struck air as Ushnae swiftly avoided them "I don't want to be responsible for your deaths…but if I must."

Reaching into his cloak he pulled out his blade and countered Leena's oncoming strike before flipping over and landing on Wayu's shield. With a massive kick off he sent Wayu to the ground, flipped over and kicked Mikel in the head.

Landing he resumed using his swordplay against Leena "One arm is only going to get you so far Ushnae!"

Smirking he continued to match her strikes "I've been doing well so far."

Bow in hand, Telray ran past Uhnie and Zey'Yu, knocking their knives away before spinning and striking Heather in the stomach. Grabbing her he threw her over and launched to Nephenee. The woman deflected his approach with her shield. As he spun back around and shot, his arrow once again struck her powerful shield. Shooting forward Wishblade barely clipped through Telray's side as he spun away. Noticing Shinon launch several more arrows the Snipe Master continued evading as Kay'Shera dove down and swung her weapon only to find that Telray grabbed it and with a strong pull, took Kay'Shera from her mount and slammed her into Nephenee. As the two women fell to the floor, red bolts from Mist and more arrows from Shinon flew towards Telray.

The Snipe Master prepared to advance only for Uhnie and Zey'Yu to return, knives flew in from behind him and forced him to spin and swing about his bow. To anyone else he would look to be rotating himself and his weapon wildly and without point but he was successfully blocking the Florete attacks and knocking the arrows and knives out of the sky before they reached him.

Shinon cursed as he continued to unload on the approaching Snipe Master "He is prepared for short range and long range combat."

"I know that Gore Eye, but he can't block us forever!"

Mist turned to him "We should attack him in ways he wouldn't expect…force him to adapt his strategy and take him out before he realizes what we're doing."

Shinon thought this over and stopped firing "Good idea."

Shinon jumped up and ran towards the Snipe Master as he struck Zey'Yu before flipping over Heather and Uhnie's combined attack.

Landing he grabbed Wishblade and swung Nephenee towards the oncoming Shinon.

Smirking Shinon leapt over Nephenee and buried an arrow into Telray's shoulder. "Finally! You've come out of hiding!"

Telray grabbed Shinon and threw him to the ground as Michalis slammed into his back. Stumbling forward Telray turned and prepared to fire on the roc only for Shinon to roll over and sink another arrow into the man's foot.

Annoyed Telray kicked Shinon in the face before a blade slashed through his side. Turning in shock, Telray saw the healer now out of cover as well and wielding her blade for frontal combat.

"What is this?" He asked just as Wishblade clipped his shoulder.

Groaning he leapt into the air with Heather, Zey'Yu and Uhnie's knives closing in on him.

Spinning about he knocked them out of the sky and landed. While assessing the situation he noticed something "One of them is missing."

Turning he stopped Kay'Shera's spear again and took it from her hands "You are all gnats! Worthless gnats!"

A sharp pain came to Telray's lower back as Wishblade buried into him. Seizing the opportunity Kay'Shera took off, Shinon running past her and launching himself onto Telray's back. Holding one arrow in both hands he sunk them into the Snipe Master's chest and held on as the man tried to get Shinon off of him.

"Gnats!"

Uhnie, Zey'Yu and Heather charged in again as Mist treated Kay'Shera and Nephenee "We've almost got him."

Nephenee nodded, breathing hard "I hope everyone else is doing just as well…"

"Mia…I've been meaning to ask."

Mia looked over to Soren "What's up?"

He eyed the blades at her hip "Where is Balmung?"

Tapping her chin for a few seconds she looked back at him "I left it back near the Queen's caravan. I didn't think I needed it anymore…did I?"

Soren shook his head "With Ein'Tosen and Alondite, I suppose not."

Mia looked about the hall "Are we headed in the right direction?"

"The staircases near the Sword Chamber were all destroyed, I'm mapping out a circular route…once we find a staircase we have to hope that it goes up three floors or stay near it and look for another. I'd like to use my magic but we've got to rest and recover if we're going to help Ike when we reach him."

Mia nodded slowly at Soren's explanation while the knot in her stomach continued to tighten. The feeling she got after their most recent battle was still strong "I'm worried."

Soren put an arm around her waist and pulled her close "So am I…"

They remained silent and continued through the Bastion unaware of the deadly fights their allies are engaged in right outside.

Meltraitis grabbed his helmet, now ruined and took it off. The man's bright blue and green eyes were matching to his bright green hair with blue streaks. Examining the helmet he spat and tossed it to the ground "You fools will regret that."

Boyd smirked and spun his axe as Oscar, Rolf, Rhogam and Tyazaer came to his side "We'll see!"

Meltraitis charged forward again, his initial powerful swing being met by Rhogam and Boyd's axes while Oscar and Rolf got some distance and fired their arrows at the Spear Lord.

Tyazaer rolled aside and attempted to stab Meltraitis from behind, seeing this; the Spear Lord released Gungnir and flipped away. Doing so caused Boyd and Rhogam to stumble forward as the vile spear hit the ground.

Holding his hand out the spear got up and spun about, one end slashed across Rhogam's face before returning to Meltraitis' outstretched hands. Running back in, Meltraitis used the spear and vaulted over Rhogam and Boyd as they charged him.

Landing near Rolf and Oscar he jumped again and kicked Oscar in the stomach before spinning and stabbing Rolf. With Gungnir still in the young Marksman he lifted him over and slammed him into the ground. As Tyazaer leapt and tried to gore Meltraitis he jumped away again and snapped his fingers.

Gungnir gave off a bright glow, blinding Tyazaer and Rolf while Rhogam and Boyd reached Meltraitis and began dueling with the unarmed Spear Lord.

Meltraitis laughed as he avoided their swings before calling Gungnir to him. The spear flew past Boyd and stopped both axes. "Fighting alongside your brothers…not wise…I can't imagine the pain you'll feel when you see one of them die."

Boyd growled and pushed against Gungnir "Not gonna happen!"

Meltraitis laughed and spun around before lifting his leg and kicking Boyd in the back. As the Reaver from Tellius fell to the ground Rhogam seized the moment and charged forward, the Quetzal Cleaver hit Meltraitis in the chest but the Spear Lord took this chance to slash Rhogam in the face again.

The Quester fell back screaming as Meltraitis lifted his spear "No!" A lance pierced his shoulder as Tyazaer rode in close; Alysia jumped, turned and kicked Meltraitis with her hind legs.

Oscar rode past and pursued the stumbling Spear Lord with his lance as Tyazaer bent down at Rhogam's side "Are you-"

She went silent as Rhogam moved his hands, revealing that Meltraitis took out his right eye.

"This country is mine!" Duke roared as he slammed his fists into the snow covered ground. A wave rippled from the impact and threw all of the Regalshin soldiers standing nearby into the sky.

Orkra and Zihark used this lift to flip through the air and land near Duke. Blades flashed and sliced towards him and he began his seemingly effortless dodging. Raising one fist he punched towards Zihark's blade. The two came into contact but as opposed to Zihark slicing through Duke's hand, the fist shattered Zihark's blade and collided with his chest.

The Trueblade fell several feet back into the snow, struggling to breathe as Orkra pulled out her axe and began using both weapons against Duke. Before coming to fight Duke again Orkra took the precautions of taking her cape off so he couldn't grab it and covering her normal eye with her bandana, showing only her all-seeing eye. Now straining her special eye to focus on Duke's movements she could barely keep up as his fists broke through her guard and began breaking pieces of her armor. The steel fell to the snow below as blade and axe continued to miss the Duke.

Yelling Zihark jumped back into the fray and began making large and wild swings against Duke's back.

"Zihark! He can easily read those moves you should…know this…"

Orkra realized that Zihark was more focused on splitting Duke's attention and giving the Froghul an opportunity to strike.

"Using yourself as a distraction…"

Narrowing her eye she noticed Duke swing a little too wide towards her and used the time before his fist reeled back in to spin and strike his arm with her axe, pushing it aside. Taking one step forward she ran her blade through his stomach.

Duke roared and grabbed Orkra's throat in response giving Zihark the chance to slash through the Duke's legs.

Using all her strength she swung her legs and kicked Duke's chin, snapping his head back and causing him to release his grip. As she hit the snow Duke tore the blade out and turned to face Zihark, blades now clashing Orkra remembered that last time he greatly wounded Zihark, a wound still slowing down the Trueblade.

Grabbing her axe she moved in, Duke smiled and kneed Zihark in the gut before swinging around and stabbing Orkra through her left shoulder. Dropping her axe she clenched her teeth and fists in pain as Duke shoved the blade further through.

As she fell to the snow Duke picked up her axe "I'm not going to let you continue to scar me!"

"Then try me!" Zihark roared, grabbing Duke from behind and controlling his axe wielding arm. Orkra moved away slowly as Zihark forced Duke to drop the axe before releasing the mad man and rolling away.

Turning Duke charged Zihark who flashed green and vanished. Skidding to a halt Duke glanced around to see five green Ziharks all armed with blades. The group converged on him and slashed through him. The ghostly blades all left cuts around the Duke and brought him to one knee "What was that!?"

Zihark moved to Orkra's side "Should I-"

She looked up at him and nodded; he grabbed the hilt of the blade and ripped it from her shoulder causing her to scream in pain.

"Orkra!"

"I'm…alright…damn…"

Turning Zihark spotted Duke approaching, the icy winds around them started to whip around and it was growing colder.

"I'm just going to skip the pleasantries and freeze you two to death. Enjoy it."

Zihark shook his head "Not gonna happen!"

"Come on!" Midnight 12 yelled as he spun about, using the force of his heavily armored arms to blow Ragnell away.

The two glowing red eyes of the Midnight focused on Ike as his attacks glanced off of the Midnight's armor. "You don't have a weapon? Unfortunate."

Midnight 12 laughed "Not at all, the one that I want is out there I just can't seem to find it. My body is interfering with my connection to it."

As Ike leapt away Mertre moved in and stabbed the Midnight with her lance which broke on contact. Cursing she rolled away as his fist swung wide "You two must not know who I am."

As Ragnell slashed across the Midnight Ike came to a stop "I'm not too familiar with your kind but are they usually as talkative as you?"

Midnight 12 shook his head "No…I'm a special case. The other Midnights lose their humanity and become servants to the Midnight commander that they are designated to. Midnight 1 and I were allowed to keep our humanity for very specific reasons."

Mertre glanced over at Ike before turning to Midnight 12 who snapped his fingers "Found it."

Holding his hand out Ike leapt aside and took Mertre with him to the ground as a blade tore out of the floor and flew to Midnight 12's hand.

"Balmung. It's been too long."

Ike stood "Balmung again…damn it."

Sheathing Ragnell he brought out Dyeshein "If you can summon Balmung to you and wield it like Einseek-"

"It is as you imagine."

The Midnight's helmet began opening up with the visor breaking in half and moving to the sides while the lower mouth portion opened like an insect's mouth. The top unit pulled up over the man's head revealing a gray face, dark red hair and vile eyes.

"I am Seino Numengate and you are trespassing in my nation."

The helmet sealed up again with the eyes lighting up the visor. Spinning Balmung, Midnight 12 launched at Ike and clashed with Dyeshein as Mertre jumped back and took out another lance.

"Mertre! This is too dangerous! Leave him to me!"

As the pair clashed again Mertre gripped her lance "Ike! Not gonna happen! We're going this together!"

As Ike swung Dyeshein and unleashed gray flames at Midnight 12's feet Mertre dashed in and swung her lance. Midnight 12 leapt away and swung Balmung, a high pitched whistle caused Ike and Mertre to yell as their ears bled.

Landing Midnight 12 laughed "This is far too easy!"

An ornate wall crumbled as a chandelier hanging from the ceiling exploded and crashed to the ground below. The Apothecary and Eien continued to sling dark spells at each other and the room around them suffered.

Eien tried to make sure no attacks flew to close to her allies but the Apothecary was not letting up.

Cursing she launched herself forward, hands encased in black magic and swung at the Apothecary. He grabbed one of her fists and stopped the other with an open palm "You will not stop us."

"I know I can't…but that is why I'm not the only one here!"

"These…friends of yours…you've doomed them all by involving them in this ancient struggle."

"They understand what I went through then and what I'm going through now. Being betrayed by one of my closest friends and losing the others to a dark being like you…you aren't half the warrior Nias, Ulmeihn or Mazear were!"

The Apothecary laughed "Of course not…I'm better."

Screaming, a wave of magic exploded from Eien's mouth all over the Apothecary. Leaping aside she kicked him the stomach and spun around before swinging her arm unleashing three rips of Verrine across her foe's chest.

Each time she came into contact with the Apothecary however it felt almost like she wasn't hitting anything. Examining him closer as he brought his hands up she realized they were made out of dark magic "Is he just…self-aware Elder magic? How is that possible?"

Raising his arms the Apothecary yelled something unknown to her, the magic from his hands exploded and black tentacles began striking all around the room. Eien quickly dove aside as several tore through the floor below and the ceiling above.

Ushnae sighed as a quick flick of his blade took Leena's away from her. Clenching her teeth the woman flipped away as Wayu's shield blocked his follow up strike and Mikel landed behind him. Ushnae smirked and prepared to jump only for ethereal hands to grip his feet and keep him there.

"What?" Mikel mauled Ushnae's back as Wayu's shield pushed his blade away and allowed her to stab him. Looking up Ushnae saw Janie in the distance and laughed.

Taking Wayu's lance he struck Mikel along the side of his head before completing a rotation, leaping and kicking Wayu's shield, pushing her away.

Tossing the spear aside he jumped across the room and landed before Janie as she swung her fist and caught him in the stomach. The black energy concentrated around her fist exploded and sent him skidding across the room. As he struggled to stop Leena cut through him.

Flipping about he grabbed his blade and landed safely with a smile "You've grown strong Night Shade."

"My name is Janie and I'm here with my allies to make sure the nightmare ends."

Ushnae laughed "If only you knew."

As Leena, Mikel and Wayu descended on him Janie's eyes drifted to the Fell Lord sitting on his throne watching the combat. Every once in a while a stray spell from the Apothecary and Eien would shoot for him but disintegrate against some invisible shield. She could swear he was staring at her and something began to make her feel sick.

"I think I've made a mistake…"

Screeching Tyse shot down from the sky and with a savage kick, shattered the gem embedded on Gashuuka's ruined chest plate. Stumbling back the man swung his axe and caught Tyse, slamming him into the ground.

"I've never seen a being like you…killing you should be quite the experience."

Tyse looked up at Gashuuka's eyes and smiled "I've never tried this before so…I hope you feel honored."

As Gashuuka's expression changed two bright red beams fired from Tyse's eyes into Gashuuka's face, burning him. Roaring the Berserker Lord stumbled back, clutching his face "You son of a bitch!"

Wildly swinging Helswath Tyse flew out of range and was ready to attack again when light magic struck Gashuuka in the back. Rhys and Cadeera were up again with the White Valkyrie looking up to Tyse "We covered them! Don't worry!"

Tyse nodded and shot down at Gashuuka as Helswath crashed into the ground, causing Rhys and Cadeera to fall over.

Landing in front of Gashuuka, Tyse held his hand flat out, his vile nails glowing. His hand shot into the ruined chest plate, through a torn hole and into Gashuuka's chest.

Feeling the pain the Berserker Lord looked at Tyse and grabbed him, Tyse unleashed his eye lasers again, burning Gashuuka's face. This time however the Berserker Lord brought up one hand to stop the beams and covered Tyse's face.

High above him, Teiaya fell to the ground his blade slipped in between Gashuuka's armor and neck, slicing into the man's back at a severe angle.

This new pain caused Gashuuka to release Tyse and swing about, grabbing Teiaya and throwing him into Cadeera as she prepared to fire another spell.

Leah, Titania and Ranulf shot out of the dust clouds around the battlefield and engaged Gashuuka on all sides. His savage swings were met by Titania's powerful blows while Ranulf and Leah dodged Helswath and stepped in, striking Gashuuka.

Furious Gashuuka spun about fiercely and slammed Helswath into the open ground before him. The earth around them began to glow red causing Leah to curse. As the man leapt onto Gashuuka's back the ground exploded and blood red flames burned across Titania and Ranulf. As they fell back Gashuuka swung his weapon and knocked the pair away.

On Gashuuka's back Leah raised his blade and with as much effort as he could, pierced a heavily damaged portion of Gashuuka's armor and sunk the blade into the man's flesh.

Gashuuka clenched his fists "Expel vent!"

The wound Leah made began to give off steam, before the Trueblade could act a jet of extremely hot steam shot into his face. As he fell back Gashuuka grabbed him and lifted him into the air before slamming him face first into the ground.

Leaping out of the blood red flames, Gashuuka swung his axe and struck Teiaya as the man stood.

"You will all pay with your pitiful lives!"

Raising his axe he prepared to bring it down on Teiaya when a light shield formed around him. Turning the Berserker Lord spotted Rhys "Light magic!"

Roaring Gashuuka bounded towards him as Rhys moved his arms and formed a large orb of light. Raising his arms up it shot high into the sky. Gashuuka swung Helswath and cut through Rhys, as the Saint fell he turned to see Cadeera assaulting him with constant orbs of shine.

"Why won't you lot stay down!"

Tyse stood weakly as Helswath unleashed blood that erupted all around Cadeera and threw her to the ground, limp.

"No!" Despite the pain he stood and flew towards Gashuuka, screeching a powerful red bolt shot out of his mouth and clean through Gashuuka's side.

In shock the Berserker Lord was not ready for Teiaya's mighty tackle. A large dust cloud erupted and rubble flew as the two crashed through the earth.

"You bugs have struck me for the last time." Gashuuka growled as he lifted Teiaya up. Both of the Edge Sorcerer's blades were buried in Gashuuka's exposed collar bone but his green eyes still burned with bloodlust.

As Teiaya looked at him Gashuuka grinned "Are you prepared to die?"

Teiaya then examined his wounded allies all around and turned to the Berserker Lord "Yes…I've seen them give everything for what is right…I'm prepared to do the same."

"Amazingly noble…yet mythically stupid!"

Gashuuka swung back Helswath and roared as a ball of light flew down and landed between him and Teiaya. In a brilliant white flash everything seemed to vanish.

"Three…four…this should be it."

Soren turned to Mia and nodded before opening the door.

Soren instantly felt like he was in a completely different place, the walls of the room were made of a very familiar wood. In fact, everything here looked familiar.

"This is…a Corelis house." Mia stated looking around as Soren nodded slowly.

"It's not ours…whose is it?"

Mia recognized something on the floor and picked it up "This is…"

Turning she gave it to Soren "Travel log." Opening it he found the name of the owner written on the inside cover.

"Lyle. This is Lyle's house from Corelis…how?"

Mia continued searching "We've got to find something that is locked…anything."

Soren nodded, ignoring the part of his mind that feared whatever was hidden in this room.

After a few moments of searching the tactician heard Mia say "Found it…"

Turning Soren saw Mia approaching him with a box. He examined the lock then glanced down to the key in his hand.

Mia placed the box on a nearby table and moved aside as Soren neared it. He had many questions and endless guesses flooded his head. Ignoring them he put the key in the lock and turned it, hearing a click.

Laughing, Peltzm'Jakq continued to swing about his weapons. As one cut across Volke's leg mid-flip the Assassin noticed his opponent's demeanor was changing.

Upon landing, Volke continued to back away and evade Night and Curse while examining Peltzm'Jakq. "You've not had a fight like this in a long time…have you?"

With a savage spin, Volke caught Night with Baselard. As Curse flew in he pushed off the ground and landed on Night as Peltzm'Jakq smiled "What gave it away?"

The assassin shot into the air as Peltzm'Jakq rotated fiercely, his blades slicing through the air. Landing Volke sheathed Baselard and began tossing his Peshkatz knives at the Trueblade as he approached. Using his speed, Peltzm'Jakq dodged the knives easily though they did cut through his cloak as it flared behind him.

Reaching Volke he began slashing his blades again, Volke brought up one Peshkatz to the side of his face allowing Night to grind against it before using his free arm to grab the Trueblade's other arm and control Curse.

"What about you, Fireman? Have you ever had your prey fight back like this?"

Volke narrowed his eyes before pulling on the Trueblade's arm, as Peltzm'Jakq stumbled forward Volke flipped over him and stabbed him in the back with Peshkatz before rolling to his feet and turning around with Baselard at the ready.

The Trueblade caught himself and turned, throwing one of his massive blades. "I can't deflect that."

Leaping away Volke found Peltzm'Jakq in front of him almost instantly. Using Baselard he stopped the vile man's other blade but was then kicked in the stomach and thrown to the ground.

Rolling away quickly, Volke barely dodged Peltzm'Jakq as his blade sunk into the ground. Standing, Volke leaned back, barely dodging his opponent's blade as it swung towards him.

Flipping away Volke noticed Peltzm'Jakq move back and pick up his discarded sword "What kind of assassin for hire takes on a job like this? How much are those gnats paying you?"

"The money is good." Volke muttered as he picked stood up straight "But that alone was not a good enough reason for me to leave Tellius."

Peltzm'Jakq laughed "Your world starts and ends with money, what else could there be for someone like you?"

"It's true…most of what I've done has been because there is a paycheck at the end…but this man who hired me to come with him to this foreign land…commands something I still don't completely understand."

Peltzm'Jakq smirked "What is that?"

"Five hundred thousand."

The Trueblade tilted his head "What?"

"Want to know? That's how much it's going to cost you…"

Shaking his head Peltzm'Jakq charged towards the Fireman.

Leaping into the air and flipping several times loosened Shinon's grip and he flew off of Telray's back and slammed into the ground. As he landed Zey'Yu leapt up and sunk a dagger in his back. Turning Telray prepared to grab her only for Michalis to fly in and scratch him across the face. Kay'Shera grabbed Zey'Yu and retreated as Telray swung his bow about.

Feeling blood trail down his face he could barely focus on Uhnie and Heather as they darted around. Stomping his foot he screamed "Gnats!"

As the two reached him he pulled back on Yewfelle and fired into the sky. Daggers tore through him but he ignored them and leapt away "Star Rain!"

Mist stopped next to Shinon and started healing him as he looked up at the sky. There was a flash and nearly a hundred lights appeared in the sky.

Shinon shook his head and yelled as loud as he could "Evasive maneuvers!"

Nephenee leapt away from Telray as he swung his bow at her and looked up. Streams of light descended all around and began crashing into the ground and exploding. Shielding herself she continued to jump away from Telray as he shot another arrow after her.

Rolling across the ground Heather leapt by and slashed through the light. Landing she noticed her knife was rusted and burned, sighing she tossed it aside "We've got to keep moving Neph!"

She nodded "Right behind you!"

As the pair dodged the falling lights Kay'Shera waved at Michalis and jumped on with Zey'Yu in tow "Clear the range Michalis!"

As they flew off Shinon swung and spun Gore Eye above him, knocking arrow bolts away from him and Uhnie who kneeled nearby "There are too many Shinon! We have to move!"

Mist was near them using her magic to blow several up before they could land however Shinon heard Telray call out "Star Rain!"

Another light exploded in the sky and more bullets began to drop.

"We have to stop him!" Shinon yelled.

"Allow me to give you a boost, Shinon."

"No offense but even now-"

"You don't have complete faith in me…but ask yourself this, can you protect your friends the way you are now?"

Shinon cursed "Do it!"

Everything seemed to freeze as Gore Eye's eye widened and began to glow, veins in Shinon's bow arm began to glow red and his eyes became as bright red as Gore Eye.

Uhnie noticed Shinon stop swinging the bow "Shinon? Are you alright."

Two voices answered "Now I am."

Pulling back on Gore Eye he fired into the air "Red Scatter Shot!" The one arrow divided into dozens and began countering the hundreds coming from Telray's attack.

They sky above them was now mostly clear in one section "We can now get to Telray!"

Mist, Uhnie and Shinon ran towards the man as he pulled back on Yewfelle "This is the Death Seeker! Fear it!" He released five homing arrows, all headed for Shinon.

"And this…is Gore Eye!" Shinon swung his bow, a red light destroyed the oncoming bolts causing Telray to gasp as Uhnie and Mist reached him and slashed through him.

Shinon fired more arrows into the air, destroying more of the oncoming attacks "Heather! Neph! Zey'Yu! Kay'Shera! We finish this now!"

"Don't test us Ushnae!" Mikel yelled as he slammed his axe into the ground. The opposing Froghul was too fast for the warrior but that was what he was counting on, as Ushnae prepared to strike back Leena would jump in and force him to disregard Mikel as he sped up to counter her blows.

Wayu then jumped in from an opposite side and swung her shield. Ushnae rolled away from it and stood, using his blade to knock the oncoming lance out of the air before Leena descended on him again. "We aren't letting you go! Not after everything that has happened!"

Ushnae smirked as Leena's blade cut through his side "Of course not, this is the end of the line for everyone."

Launching forward Ushnae grabbed Leena's blade arm and spun her about, kneeing her in the stomach twice before slamming her into the ground. "Slow down." Raising his blade he stabbed her in the leg before jumping away from Mikel's axe "Back off!"

Smirking Ushnae ran back in only for Wayu to throw her shield striking the side of his head. As he stumbled, Mikel spun around and caught the Froghul with his axe, slamming him into the ground. Ushnae laughed and swung his blade, leaving a long slice across Mikel's arm.

Tearing the axe out he jumped up for several black whips to strike him back down. As they continued to attack his one arm he used to shield himself he smiled at Janie "You enjoy the power of the Fell Lord, don't you."

Janie shook her head "I enjoy the power that Freen entrusted to me."

Ushnae broke her whips and prepared to move when Wayu stabbed him from behind. Spinning he slashed across her face, jumped and then struck the side of her head "Payback." Grabbing her he swung her about and threw her at Leena as the mercenary stood up.

Janie narrowed her eyes, color changing to purple and Goetia's insignia appearing. As she shot at the Froghul a sword of black magic appeared in her hands and she swung it, colliding with Ushnae's blade.

"The end is nigh."

The Elder Sage smirked "It is…for you!" Janie swung her blade; the ethereal weapon passed through Ushnae's like it wasn't there and cut across the Froghul's chest.

Dyeshein screamed as Balmung whistled, the otherworldly sounds reverberated from Ike and Midnight 12's battle. With his face concealed Ike found it impossible to read Midnight 12's impressions of the fight. Instead the Legend turned his attention to the being's armor.

The central portions were black with a crest in the middle of his chest adorned with the number 12. Gold lines decorated his entire set, chest, leg, arms, helmet and even his cape. The cape was a deep purple and there were strange symbols adorning his abdomen armor and the backs of his gloved hands.

The Midnight's red eyes flashed as he broke through Ike's guard only for a spear to land in front of him. As Ike flipped away Midnight 12 cut through the spear and pursued. Ike clenched his teeth as his black arm pulsed "Blood!"

Unable to restrain it, he found himself charging forward, blade slashing across Midnight 12's arm as the Midnight spun about and slashed through Ike's abdomen.

Mertre realized what was happening and move in her spear cutting through Midnight 12's flourishing cape as he leapt over and swung his weapon. A clean, straight cut formed along her cape and she cursed, "Balmung can supposedly cut through anything, have to keep clear."

As Balmung whistled Mertre rolled below it and leapt up with a small knife in hand. She buried it into the joint of Midnight 12's right arm. As the Midnight cast a quick glance at it she moved to Ike's side. He struggled to maintain his hold and control of Dyeshein as she neared.

"Mertre…you really…shouldn't be involved…in this…battle…"

"I'm not leaving you Ike, look at yourself! You need someone in your corner and you know it!"

Taking out another knife she whispered something and it gave off a faint white glow "Ready?"

Nodding slowly he braced himself as Mertre stabbed him "Not this foul magic! I despise you! You bug!"

Ike felt control return to his arm and quickly pushed Mertre back as Balmung whistled past Ike's face, barely scratching his nose.

Spinning Dyeshein he moved forward and caught Balmung with his blade's hook.

"A powerful and ancient weapon you have here…then again…the other one you had was one as well…you've come from quite the background, haven't you?"

"I could say the same about you, though I'd never turn myself into an inhuman creature just to keep living."

Midnight 12's red eyes flashed as he broke free of Ike's hold and swung Balmung, ripping through Ike's leg. Clenching his teeth Ike stepped forward and impaled Midnight 12 as Mertre moved in from behind and stabbed the Midnight in the crook of his left knee.

As the Midnight broke free it jumped and kicked both warriors in the head before swinging and drawing blood from Ike again.

Eien continued to wave her arm, sending black bullets at the Apothecary who merely spread his arms before him. The bullets dissolved as they reached him and he chuckled "Surely you've realized that I…am magic…"

"I'd say that's impossible…but everything points to it…"

"Indeed…you can't harm magic."

"Now that part isn't true!" Eien yelled as she prepared to attack again.

"If you destroy me…you'll destroy any hope of seeing Nias, Ulmeihn and Mazear again."

Eien sighed "I know…but I've accepted that…you are not Nias, Ulmeihn or Mazear and that man over there is not my Ushnae."

"Then you are alone."

Eien smiled and looked up at the Apothecary "Far from it…I've found new more honorable comrades who would never go back on their ideals…these men and women fight not under one banner or one person but with each other as different people all willing to give everything for what they know is right. Together we will triumph…I know it."

The Apothecary laughed as he extended his hand, sending massive blocks of black magic at Eien.

With a smile on her face the woman jumped onto one and began hopping from one to the other before reaching the Apothecary. Her fist gave off a white glow and she struck him, this time she felt a body.

The black aura gave way and she saw the lower abdomen of a man. Groaning the Apothecary took several steps back as his shadows covered his body again.

"What was that?"

Eien remained silent as her fists began to glow white.

Boyd and Oscar cried out as they fell to the ground, Meltraitis spear was stained red as he stood over them. Oscar rolled aside as the weapon struck the ground where he was.

"None of you can escape me!"

Tyazaer continued to apply an elixir to Rhogam's face as Rolf landed near her with a deep cut in his leg. "Damn it…we aren't doing well."

Rhogam grabbed her hand and stood slowly "Treat the boy."

She was about to say something when he took off and raised his Quetzal Cleaver "We won't fall here! You are the brothers! I've heard tales of your triumphs! We'll have victory!"

As the axe struck Gungnir, Boyd stood "Ya got that right! Hey asshole!"

Meltraitis turned as Boyd threw his axe, the weapon clipped the Spear Lord's face as Rhogam tore Gungnir from the man. Spinning he rammed the weapon into Meltraitis and unleashed an electric charge that pushed him a few feet away.

Looking up Meltraitis spotted a spear, dodging it he was struck by three arrows from Rolf.

"Gungnir! To me!" As the lance came to him, Oscar and Alysia rode up to him and struck him with their weapons.

"You fight bravely! But I've been fighting for longer and against much greater odds! I've leveled entire armies on my own! I crushed an entire continent with my power! I-"

Meltraitis went silent as an arrow pierced his left eye. His one good eye found Rhogam with his bow and arrow, "Now we match!"

Meltraitis roared and charged Rhogam's position as arrows from Rolf began to hit him, leaping into the air he was met by Boyd, weapons struck and Meltraitis landed in front of Rhogam. Boyd's axe hit the ground near him while Gungnir fell elsewhere.

Rhogam roared as he raised his axe and brought it down on Meltraitis, however Gungnir returned just in time for Meltraitis to protect himself "I'm not going out that way!"

The two one-eyed men glared at each other. Meltraitis free hand grabbed the arrow in his eye and tore it out "…but you are!"

Spinning he stuck the arrow bolt in Rhogam's shoulder before jumping and kicking Rhogam in the chest, the armor their bucked and shattered to pieces as the Reaver hit the floor.

Spears from Oscar and Tyazaer approached from behind as arrows from Rolf came from one side and Boyd charged in from the other. Meltraitis spun about savagely, deflecting the weapons and stopped to attempt a stab at Boyd.

Sliding on his knees, Boyd picked up his axe and slashed through Meltraitis. "Brothers! Unique Triangle!"

Axe flashing green Boyd about "B!" bow flashing green Rolf launched a single glowing arrow "R!", lance flashing green Oscar charged aboard his mount while spinning his lance "O!". The three weapons cut across Meltraitis giving off powerful green flashes

"BRO!"

Soren and Mia continued through the Midnight Bastion, Soren turned to Mia who carried the box with him as well as Lyle's travel log that she was currently reading through.

"Mia, I know I've said this before but-"

"I know, invasion of privacy and all that but…I really want to know if what he told us of his travels were true…Lyle wouldn't lie to us openly, if the Fell Lord made him say anything different to us it wasn't his fault. He was a good guy."

Soren thought about all the times he and Lyle fought together and nodded "He was…and for the help he gave us, it's our turn to help him."

The two nearly fell over as the Bastion shook all around them, this time portions of the ceiling collapsed around them and the groans were much louder.

Soren turned to Mia who dropped the box and Lyle's book and was leaning against a wall.

"Mia!" He ran over to her and saw she was having trouble breathing. Shaking her head as tears came down Soren swallowed "This is the second time…but this time it's worse…what happened?"

Mia inhaled deeply "I thought…it was Ike's group…it's everyone else. Outside."

Soren turned "Outside…everyone we left out there was fighting the Midnight, they shouldn't-"

She shook her head fiercely "There is something else out there…and it…they…did something to them."

Soren looked at her "Someone…died?"

Mia's eyes met Soren "Yes…I'm certain that is what this feeling is…but…it's so much stronger this time…"

Mia shook her head fiercely "I don't want to think about who it might have been…"

Soren helped her off the wall and picked up the box and book "We've got to keep moving. The sooner we finish the better…for everyone."

Mia looked to Soren as he smiled "Everything will be fine. That's why we're here."

Despite everything she couldn't help but laugh "To think that it's you calming me down…"

After a few moments the two continued, Soren could feel conflict above him; he knew that Ike was engaged with the Fell Lord's last commanders. He had to get there to help his old friend.

Bringing up her shield, Orkra yelled as powerful cold gales whipped at her. One slammed into her shield and broke it in half. Shocked she rolled aside as shards of ice began slamming into the snow.

"Zihark! Are you alright!?" Looking up Orkra could barely make out Zihark in the raging cold as he leapt and slashed through sharp daggers of ice.

"Yeah! Cover yourself!"

Standing Orkra grabbed her axe and blade and began slashing through the ice; however what worried her most was that Duke was nowhere to be seen.

As the ice shards slowed Orkra and Zihark made their way towards each other and stood back to back, facing the vast and empty frost all around them.

"No weapons and yet his otherworldly magic and hand to hand skills are…unbelievably good to say the least."

Zihark nodded to Orkra "Indeed…we could all learn from fighting without weapons…but now is not the time…do you see him?"

Orkra focused her all-seeing eye and shook her head "No. I can't make anything out but ice and snow."

As they remained still Zihark's mind began to wander. There was so much going on now, but after it was all resolved. "Can I really go through with this? Is this what I want?"

"Zihark? Are you alright?"

The trueblade nodded "Of course…just…"

Before he could say anything he spotted something and tensed up. After a few moments of silence he continued to scan the surroundings. He had been ignoring it until now but he was freezing, his grip on his blade was weakening and his vision was getting blurry.

"Zihark…we've got to get you out of here."

The trueblade sighed "Daein was the coldest place on Tellius and I spent some time hiking up in the Umbarra Heights…but this is on a whole different level."

"Artificial frost…if the temperature continues to drop I don't think even I'll be faring well."

Slowly the pair began moving, Orkra spotted something and trailed after it. Remaining silent she shook her head and kept moving as Zihark now saw something in his vision.

"He's playing with us."

Orkra nodded "He'll regret it."

Seeing someone standing still Zihark roared and shot forward "Wait!" Orkra yelled. The figure vanished and Duke appeared near Orkra, leaping and kicking her axe away before rolling from her blade.

Turning Zihark cursed and headed towards the man just as he leapt into the air and vanished into the frost. As Zihark was about to apologize he returned, both legs slammed into Zihark's back before he flipped around and kicked Orkra's blade away.

"This is my domain!" Duke yelled before leaping and tackling Orkra to the ground "Learn your place!"

As Orkra struggled to stand she felt the temperature around her drop to extremely low levels. Her movement slowed and her head hit the ground. As she tried to speak Duke smiled "You know…this eye of yours seems extremely handy…I think I'll rip it out and keep it for myself. What do you say?"

Clenching her teeth Orkra growled "Go…fuck…yourself…"

Duke laughed and prepared to bent down when a sword ripped through his chest "WH-what!? How!?"

Zihark continued to push the blade through causing Duke to roar, turning he struck Zihark across the face "Freeze!"

Feeling it growing even colder Zihark tried to crawl away, distance himself from the Duke only to fall flat on the ground.

Duke looked at the blade inside him and cursed, reaching behind him he grabbed the hilt and started to pull it out only to realize he froze it to his body.

Roaring in frustration Duke shot into the sky, in response the temperature began to rise. As soon as he could Zihark got up and turned to see Orkra standing. Orkra picked up her axe and gestured for Zihark to take her sword before looking up to the sky.

"He's coming back."

"Good…we've got to end this." Zihark stated, his grip on the blade tightening.

"Look out!" Eien yelled as she rolled across the ground. Mikel, Leena and Wayu turned and realized what she was warning them off. The three moved aside just as black orbs struck the ground and exploded. The Midnight's Apothecary flew high above the floor and continued chasing Eien, unleashing endless streams of Dark magic.

The woman came to a stop near Midnight 12 as the creature swung its blade. Ike leapt in quickly and stopped the attack only for Eien to spin and shove him away. The woman shot herself into the air as the Apothecary's magic exploded around Midnight 12. Cursing the Midnight leapt out and continued its pursuit of Ike while Eien continued to anger the Apothecary.

Janie continued swinging her ethereal blade around, the weapon continued to pass through Ushnae's blade as if it wasn't even there but it also cut across his skin.

"What are you doing? How is this possible!?" Janie was about to move in when she heard the explosions from earlier growing louder.

Disengaging from Ushnae she leapt into the air as Eien ran up to Ushnae, leapt and kicked him in the chest. The Froghul stumbled back and cursed before launching himself at Eien. The area around them exploded as the Apothecary continued his relentless assault.

Janie, now in the air turned and shot a spell at the Apothecary, taking his attention away from Eien. "What's got you so worked up, spooky?"

Roaring the Apothecary fired a massive orb at her which she proceeded to grab and throw down at the ground "Eien!"

Leaping away from the Froghul, Eien looked up just as the spell struck him. Mikel, Leena and Wayu ran past Eien and engaged Ushnae as he struggled to regain his bearings.

"You haven't been helping your allies in the best way by coming after me."

"You are a threat. You must be destroyed as soon as possible."

Eien nodded "It's good to know that a being of pure magic can still feel pain!"

With the Apothecary floating above her, Eien's fists began to glow white again and she launched herself at him. Even if he dodged the direct contact the light still ripped apart the magic cloaking the body below.

The Fell Lord continued to watch the combat with immense interest. Something deep in his mind began to nag him to turn around. Narrowing his eyes he did so, "Behind the Bastion…what could be there…"

After a few brief moments he smiled and turned back to the battles before him "Of course they're here…of course…"

"Stop evading me!" Midnight 12 roared as he continued to strike Dyeshein with his blade. Each successive hit pushed Ike further down until he was on his knees. Roaring the Midnight took a step back before his leg shot forward and kicked Ike in the chest.

The Legend heard cracks and saw pieces of his chest plate fly off as he found himself airborne for a few feet. Midnight 12 jumped after him only for Mertre to vault over and kick him in the side.

As the three hit the ground, Ike and the Midnight quickly stood up while Mertre launched her spear into the armored creature before her.

Midnight 12 pulled the spear out and laughed "I have to say, I'm truly enjoying this…as are my friends."

Ike took a few steps forward while Mertre moved back. The Legend began pacing to the side as Midnight 12 neared "Your friends? You mean the other students?"

Midnight 12 nodded before shooting forward and slashing only for Ike to hold his blade up horizontally, stopping Balmung's approach.

"I trust you know that we all came back…and you should be at least…"

Breaking apart the two spun about, blades hitting each other twice before Midnight 12 dipped low and tried to trip Ike. The Legend responded by flipping over him and holding his blade vertically behind him to stop Balmung again.

"…be asking yourself…where are the other Students? They aren't here, right?"

Ike turned his head slightly to see Midnight 12 as the red eyes flashed "Where did you send them?"

"I didn't send them."

Turning Ike slashed through the Midnight's chest before the being shot forward and grabbed his head. Mertre ran in and stabbed the being in the leg. Turning Midnight 12 swung Ike and struck Mertre with him. As she hit the ground he threw Ike down and stabbed him in the lower abdomen.

"They were sent by the Fell Lord to deal with the rats in the plaza…if my calculations are correct they should be killing your comrades…right…about…"

"Now!" Ike brought up Dyeshein and stabbed through the Midnight's chest. Roaring in anger the Midnight leapt away and pulled Dyeshein out. Mertre got up and moved over to Ike, after a few quick gestures from the man she ripped Balmung from him. As he stood he nodded to her, the pair then looked at Midnight 12 as he examined Dyeshein.

"Are you alright, Ike?"

He swallowed "Yes…of course…"

Midnight 12 laughed before swinging Dyeshein. Ike cursed as the Midnight began to give off gray flames, all over his body.

"It wants blood…souls…things I no longer have but things that I can grant for it. Looks like I've found a new partner."

"We should-"

Before Mertre could finish Midnight 12 swung his blade unleashing a furious torrent of gray flames all over Ike and Mertre.

Taking a foot to the chin, Mikel fell back and tasted the blood from his torn lip. Cursing he looked up as Ushnae used an open palm to strike Wayu in the chest and sent her skidding across the floor into a wall.

Leena arrive from behind as Janie charged in, both blades swung but Ushnae knew now to completely avoid Janie's. Leaping high above the range of their blades he pulled another one out from his cloak and landed behind Leena, as she turned he slashed through her before jumping away from Janie's magic.

"You four…I can tell that you have grown much stronger…"

"Really? How?" Leena coughed as she brought her blade up again.

"Someone had to keep watch on all of you…it just so happened to be me."

Mikel stood and picked up his axe "So in addition to being a crazy traitor you're also a stalker?"

Ushnae laughed before charging forward again, overpowering Leena he threw her aside before slicing Wayu's spear in half. Janie moved in and swung causing Ushnae to drop his blade as he jumped over her and grabbed her arm. With immense force he picked her up and after a full vertical rotation, slammed her into the ground. Using two fingers he stopped Mikel's axe and turned to the Warrior "I'm many things…key among them all: I'm better than you."

Jumping and spinning, another savage kick struck the side of Mikel's head and floored him.

"Do it now…do it now…do it now…do it now…"

Struggling to keep his breathing in check, Deshler felt the knife in his cloak and clenched his teeth.

"Why am I the only one like this? Duke is powerful. Mistress is cunning. We're all fragments of the same soul…what is my strength?"

"Deshler? Are you alright?"

The man looked up at the Queen and smiled "Yes…but don't concern yourself over me, it's your husband who is still out there."

A short way from the caravan, Re'Zin stumbled and hit the ground. Looking up he cursed, the area was clear, most of the soldiers were attending to the threat of Peltzm'Jakq, trying to protect their King and they all died.

Standing again he continued moving "The King is dead…the Queen remains…Hierarch is here…"

As he neared the caravan, one man came to mind "How can I be certain? What if I'm wrong?"

Shaking his head he continued forward.

Now staring at the Queen's back again, Deshler inhaled deeply and gripped his knife.

"For the Royal Ring."

After what seemed like an eternity he pulled the knife out and roared, as the Queen turned she saw the knife above her and countless thoughts went through her head.

Deshler found his advance halted when an arrow cut through his wrist. He looked at the bolt in shock as the Queen fell to the ground, unable to speak.

Dropping the knife he gripped his wrist and took a step back just as Re'Zin entered the caravan with his bow and arrow at the ready.

Deshler turned to him "You can't-"

Without a word, Re'Zin shot four arrows into Deshler's chest. As the body fell to the floor Re'Zin knelt down next to the Queen "Are you alright?"

At her slow nod, he smiled and collapse.

Blood pouring out of his mouth, Meltraitis stumbled away from the brothers, laughing.

"To think…we'd come back…for this…"

Rhogam and Tyazaer joined Oscar, Boyd and Rolf as Meltraitis continued to laugh. Upon stopping he stabbed Gungnir into the ground "Bullshit!"

Screaming he shot forward "Not again!" Oscar called out as the group began to break apart. Meltraitis reached Boyd first, one blow from his spear shattering Boyd's axe before jumping towards Rolf. Rhogam leapt up and tackled Meltraitis aside, the two rolled across the ground.

As the Froghul stood, Meltraitis flipped up onto his feet and screamed before charging Rhogam. Tyazaer dashed in along with Oscar, with a savage strike, the two were thrown aside and Meltraitis was in the air.

Swinging about the Quetzal Cleaver Rhogam threw it as Meltraitis descended on him.

Rhogam felt the lance pierce him violently and slam him into the ground. The Froghul coughed up blood as the man above him began to gag. Meltraitis tried to speak only to notice that the Quetzal cleaver had buried itself into his neck. As blood from Meltraitis continued to drip onto Rhogam the Froghul tapped the Quetzal Cleaver causing it to discharge directly into Meltraitis' throat.

A silent scream erupted from the Spear lord as he got up and stumbled away.

After a few moments of intense pain he finally fell over and remained still. Tyazaer ran to Rhogam's side, the man's one eye found her and he smiled "We won?"

She nodded "We've got to-"

"Good…"

Shaking her head she continued staring at him "We're the Questers Rhogam! The two of us together! Three with Janie when this is over! We promised her that! Remember!"

Rhogam chuckled "I remember…shit…I never wanted…to be one to break…a promise…tell Janie…I'm sorry…"

As Tyazaer shook her head Rhogam continued "You'll be fine…Tyazaer…you always did see the bigger picture…for my life, everyone else gets to live, including you…and Janie…"

Oscar, Rolf and Boyd closed in, the three remaining silent as Tyazaer sat at Rhogam's side with tears in her eyes.

Once again at the mercy of the rouges, Telray found himself in the middle of a losing battle. Despite his experience bow play he wasn't fast enough to completely block out six knives seeking to end his life.

Yelling he fired at the ground, causing a dust cloud to explode before him. Leaping into the air he saw Michalis oncoming and fired several arrows at the roc. Shinon responded by sniping the arrows out of the sky and giving Michalis a clear shot, the roc rammed Telray and spun him out.

As he fell Mist swung Florete and pelted the man with red energy waves. Landing on his feet he turned and fired on the approaching Uhnie, Zey'Yu and Heather as well as Shinon and Mist behind them. Angry he roared and continued firing in their direction "I'm sick of you! I sick and tired of your bull-"

Gagging the man turned to see two spears in his back "-shit."

Completing his rotation he swung his bow fiercely as Kay'Shera and Nephenee leapt away, screaming he continued pursuing them before striking Kay'Shera in the face with his bow.

As she fell he turned and shot an explosive arrow right in front of the women charging in, Heather and Uhnie were blown back by it but Zey'Yu continued. Angry the Snipe Master fired only for the Whisper to slice through his arrow and leap over him. As well as Nephenee darting forward and ripping Wishblade from him before retreating.

"You aren't touching Kay'Shera like that, ever again!"

Telray faced her and grinned "Who is going to stop me?"

"Me."

Turning he saw Shinon, still glowing red "Draw."

In an instant Yewfelle and Gore Eye came up, arrows shot forward from both, impaling the ground and the archers several times. After taking a fifth arrow to the chest Telray stumbled back and fell to one knee. He looked up to see two arrows in one of Shinon's arms and one in his leg.

"There is no way…that I…missed…that many times…"

Shinon nodded "You didn't…I was just fast enough to shoot your bolts out of the sky and nail you with a few of my own."

Telray kept his eyes on Shinon and Gore Eye "What now…"

Shinon looked past Telray and nodded.

"What are you-"

Before he could finish asking he found his hair pulled roughly by Zey'Yu who then slit his throat open. The man fell to the floor before her, blood gushing from his throat as she dusted herself and helped Kay'Shera up. The Whisper glanced over to Shinon "Sorry if I stole your thunder there…"

With a grin Shinon sighed "I'm good." Nearby Nephenee sat down on the ground examining Wishblade with a smile "That was harder'n anything I've done until now…"

Zey'Yu nodded "A hard fought victory but not one that's going to end this war."

Shinon sighed and the red glow vanished, retreating back into Gore Eye as Mist, Uhnie and Heather approached.

The Whisper from Tellius spun her knife about "What now?"

Shinon looked out to see another group of Emissaries sitting still while others were off fighting in the distance.

"Before anything else, we've got to check on our allies. They seem to be done over there, Mist check if they need any healing, we're going to see if we can make it to the other team before they wrap."

Nodding quickly Mist took off in one direction while the rest started heading towards what was the battle against Gashuuka.

"Teiaya! Teiaya!" The man shook his head and opened his eyes, seeing Ranulf and Titania standing above him with Cadeera treating him "What…happened…"

Turning he saw Tyse and Leah still engaged with Gashuuka.

"A point blank Komaru spell…well to say the least, it fried Gashuuka, he's blind now. As for you, if it wasn't for Rhys' last second barrier around you, you probably would've died."

As Teiaya stood he felt something in his gut "Rhys! Where is he?"

Ranulf looked about and sniffed the air "He was right over there a short while ago…I can't smell him."

Teiaya cursed, "Find him! We've got to take down this monster! For good!"

Nodding to Titania the pair charged towards Gashuuka as his axe struck the ground and forced Leah to roll away. Tyse flew past Gashuuka's back and slashed through him. Angry the Berserker Lord continued to swing; even blind he refused to go down quietly.

As the havoc continued Ranulf shifted to his human form "Rhys."

Kneeling down next to the Saint he closed his eyes "Ranulf…you've got to…help me up…"

"Rhys?"

"Now…"

The Laguz started to bring Rhys up into a sitting position as the man opened a tome and held his hand out. "No one else…is going to suffer…"

Ranulf nodded "No one else…including you!"

Rhys chuckled weakly "You have…better senses than any normal people…trust them…no matter what they tell you…"

As Titania's axe mauled Gashuuka's left leg, Teiaya thrust his blade through the right knee cap. Gashuuka fell to his knees as Leah flipped over and slashed through his arm while Tyse ripped at his back again.

"Rex…aura…"

A small but brilliant orb flared in Rhys' hand and shot out across the field. As the other Emissaries backed away from Gashuuka's wild swing the attack burned clean through his chest. White flashes violently exploded around the Fell Lord's student before one last one tore out of his shoulder.

With a gaping hole in his chest the Berserker Lord coughed and stumbled forward, dropping Helswath.

Leah turned as Tyse landed next to him "Where did that come from?"

Cadeera rode up to them and pointed towards Ranulf and Rhys. Instead of celebrating the group crowded around the pair as Ranulf laid Rhys back down on the ruined earth.

Titania covered her mouth with her hand as she looked at the man before her. Rhys' bright white cloaks were stained deep red, a massive cut from his right shoulder to the left of his abdomen was the source and from the looks of it, nothing could be done to help him.

"Rhys." Titania choked out as Cadeera kneeled next to him. She wanted to bring her staff out but in all her experience, she knew it was too late.

Teiaya closed his eyes "If you can hear me, Rhys…you saved my life…I didn't deserve it…to live in your place…"

"Everyone…deserves to live…"

Teiaya wanted to argue that but seeing Rhys in his condition he nodded "You're right…"

Titania kneeled next to Rhys "After everything we've been through…this can't be it…not after Gatrie, not after…Greil."

Rhys smiled "Everything…will be alright…I know…"

The Emissaries fell silent, the combat around them a million miles, all their focus was now on the man before him as his eyes closed and he passed.

The Branded pair continued through the Bastion with Soren examining everything carefully. Despite the fact that there have been no enemies aside from the Midnight Commanders he didn't want to leave anything to chance.

"How do you think everyone is doing?" Mia asked.

Soren sighed "I'd like to think they're doing well…but after Orgoth, Wyre and Gatrie…I'm not sure what to think."

Mia looked to Gurgurant across Soren's back then to the two blades at her side "The only thing this Bastion has done for us is make us stronger. The Fell Lord will regret underestimating us."

Soren narrowed his eyes as they ascended another flight of stairs "I just can't imagine someone as ancient as him would make a mistake like that."

"Kino did."

The pair remained silent for a moment as Soren continued thinking of the circumstances "Who do we know is here at the Bastion."

"Well…to be frank…everyone is here. The Altar, The Royal Ring, the Midnight themselves and the Students that they revived at the Towers…"

Soren came to a stop and nodded "The revival of the Fell Lord's Students…there should be three of them because according to Janie she destroyed Drake Pozem along with Versha at the Stone Tower. They sought to bring all the Students back for something…but what?"

"Well if they needed them all, they're missing Seino Numengate as well. Unless they brought him back but didn't see it fit to parade that in front of us as well."

Mia slowed her steps before turning to see Soren was still not moving "Soren?"

"We've made a mistake."

Mia raised an eyebrow as Soren looked up at her "Who keeps telling us that?"

"The Midnight Commanders. Kino made it a point to remind us of that even after we beat him."

Soren began walking towards Mia "Murawk, Jyim'Son, Gorm and Einseek are dead…Janie is the sole surviving disciple of the Students."

Mia nodded slowly "Gashuuka, Telray, Meltraitis and possibly Seino are here…but Drake is completely gone…"

Soren snapped his fingers "Janie has inherited his place. By bringing her here we've solved their problem. Whatever they need the Students for they have Janie now to act as the Pozem representative."

As Soren began moving again, much faster than before, Mia followed him "What else would they need?"

"The Fell Lord's Arms…Helswath, Yewfelle, Goetia, Gungnir and Balmung."

Mia scratched her chin as they continued running "The Perfect Balmung and the Physical Yewfelle are back in Anondye…they couldn't-"

Mia stopped as she remembered what Janie told them "Goetia flew all the way from Sarhara to Pozem just because Janie called for it. Involuntarily or not…and she is carrying it right now!"

Soren cursed "We've got to get to them! As soon as possible!"

The pair continued their ascent, minutes away from the Fell Lord's chamber at the top of the Bastion.

As Ushnae took a few steps away he heard a cough and turned to see Mikel standing again.

"You…"

The Froghul faced the warrior as he got up on one knee and looked up to him.

"You…are a monster…"

"So I've been told…but there is something critical that all of you are missing."

Mikel clenched his teeth as Ushnae kneeled in front of him.

"We're all monsters."

Standing quickly, the Froghul jumped away as Janie's Verrine spell cut through the small space in front of Mikel. Wayu threw her spear up at Ushnae but he easily kicked away before landing and pulling out his blade.

Wayu picked up her weapon and charged the man on the ground, sword and lance clashed several times before Leena, standing up completely joined in.

"Mikel! Get up and help us!" Leena yelled as the warrior stood slowly.

"Monsters…"

Picking up his discarded axe he looked over to Ushnae flipping over Wayu and Leena before slashing through a black bolt fired by Janie.

"…after this I suppose there will be one less to worry about."

Yelling the warrior charged in, full triangle of weapons continued to slash, pierce and maul towards Ushnae. The Froghul just laughed as he waved them aside, even as his back hit a wall. Jumping the blade, lance and axe buried themselves into the wall.

Janie took that chance and jumped as well, Ushnae and Janie made direct eye contact. He noticed her eyes shift to purple and a blue aura form around her gloved hands. A savage two fisted punch connected with his chest and knocked the wind out of him before burying him in a wall.

Rolling aside Ike cursed as his cape burned away. The gray flames from Dyeshein were chasing the Legend, no doubt angry and vengeful for his treatment of the blade's spirit.

Midnight 12 laughed as he continued to swing his blade at Ike. The Legend came to his feet and glared at the armored man as his helmet opened up again "This blade…the things it's telling me…I've never felt such a desire to kill…"

Ike brought up Balmung "That blade was originally meant to aid the Ancient Heroes in killing you and your comrades…it is highly likely the soul of it is comprised of all the Student's ancient hate."

Seino laughed "Indeed and I can't get enough of it!"

Screaming, Eien punched the Apothecary around his chest, a large portion of the shadows faded away up until his chin.

"Get away from me! Repulsion!"

A powerful wave shot out from the Apothecary and threw Eien across the room. Flipping over she landed against the far wall as the Apothecary's shadows covered his body again.

Fists still glowing Eien shot towards him, she was prepared for him to strike her again only to see him freeze in midair. She delivered a swift punch to his face, dispelling the shadows and revealing a very familiar face.

"Nias." The man's one eye moved to her, it looked like he wanted to say something but the shadows returned and the Apothecary grabbed Eien's collar. With a powerful swing he threw her to the ground and returned to the Fell Lord's side.

"My Fell Lord…they've fallen…"

The Fell Lord nodded slowly "Impressive."

As he stood he turned towards the balcony and held his hand out.

"My Fell Lord…what-"

"Just a little…gift."

Dropping his blade, Zihark took several steps back, head reeling from Duke's open palm strike to his chin. As he looked forward, a foot came right at him and he was on the ground again, this time bleeding from his newly broken nose.

Zihark turned to see Orkra in the snow as well and cursed "Maybe…the two of us…wasn't such a good idea…"

Duke spat and examined the surroundings, countless tents, supply wagons and cannons were flipped around or lying in pieces all over the snow. There were also several Regalshin soldiers who could not get away in time and were speared by ice.

"You two…gave me quite…the work out…I'll give you that but know this…die knowing that all of Regalshin is mine. The Royal Ring are the new owners of the world."

Zihark struggled to stand only for Duke to place his boot on the Trueblade's chest "Why? You've known that you were beaten long ago yet you kept throwing yourself at me…why?"

Zihark cast another glance at Orkra before turning towards Duke "Someone like you…could never understand…you aren't even human…"

Duke smiled "Of course not…we, the Royal Ring have transcended humanity. We will soon transcend our ethereal forms and become-"

"FATE…I get it…I don't care…people will find a way to resist…whether it's our friends or someone else entirely…"

Duke shook his head and brought his arm up "Not the best last words I've ever-"

Zihark's eyes widened as his face was covered in blood, for a few moments he thought he was dead. The pressure on his chest left and he quickly tried to clear his vision while moving towards Orkra.

As he shook her shoulder he turned to see Duke clutching a massive wound in his chest. Blood poured out of his mouth as he struggled to continue his vile laughing.

The man turned away from Zihark and looked to the Bastion. "You…"

Unable to continue he fell to the snow and stopped moving.

Zihark blinked several times, as Orkra began to move he looked up to the Bastion and narrowed his eyes.

"You've all been great entertainment but it's time for you to be SILENT!"

Swinging his arms, the Fell Lord blew Ike, Mertre, Mikel, Leena, Wayu, Janie and Eien back across the room towards the entrance.

Seino and Ushnae returned to the Fell Lord's side with the Student cursing "I had him! Let me finish this!"

"It's already over." The Fell Lord stated simply.

As Ike stood he glared at the Fell Lord "What are you talking about?"

"I merely allowed you to believe you could stop me…so that you could bring everything to me…and like obedient animals you did. You have my deepest thanks for allowing me to end this world."

Just then Soren and Mia entered the room with Ike glancing to them "You're here! Then-"

Soren shook his head "That doesn't matter! We've got to-"

"Too late!" The Apothecary yelled, lifting his arms, encasing the room in a black orb. As purple smoke began to fill in around them the Emissaries fell to their knees.

Soren looked up as the Fell Lord floated in the air above them with a smile.

"This world ends here…and…my world begins…"