SkekTek and Frostcrystal went straight to work on their patients. So far there were only a few scrapes along the palm, but no other injuries were spotted. SkekTek wrapped a few bandages while Frostcrystal ordered a few rooms to be ready. Once the tasks were done, they placed them in separate rooms for the night. The duo went down the stairs to join the others for a much needed dinner. However, the atmosphere is far more grim than they expected.

Everyone sat in their chairs. All of them were trying to register what had just happened. Ghost having it the worst. She stared at her fish as she thought about her visions. As well as what she, SkekMal and Frostcrystal had just seen in the water. "I can't believe we actually have those monsters lose. And that my visions-"

"Star Sight." Frostcrystal said. She sprinkled her herbs onto her own fish before taking a bite. She tried her best not to ravage the plate before her.

Ghost looked up at her. "What?"

"From what you've told me and what I've seen, you somehow have Star Sight." Frostcrystal took a sip of her tea before she continued. "Stars are the first you see at dusk and the last at dawn. Those with star sight are said to see both the past and future."

"Bah!" Mother Aughra gumbled. "Never in my years did I meet anyone who's bested Aughra's ability."

Frostcrystal gave her sideways glance before continuing. "The vision are stronger when a certain catalyst is close by." She poked her fish with her fork. "If that catalyst is meant to do extreme harm and filled with ill-intentions, the Star Sight will sense that."

Gurjin grunted. He took a peachberry from a bowl. "I'm not too surprised that Chamberlain was that catalyst." He bit into the fruit so hard that its juice squirted into Cerebrite's eye. "Oops! Sorry."

Ghost let out a frustrated sigh. She placed her fork down and pushed away her chair. Exhaustion came in waves as she heard everyone talking about their misfortunes. Suddenly, She felt a tap on her shoulder. She turned to see SkekEkt now in his normal form once again. Guilt crawled into her heart. Tears stung her eyes.

SkekEkt could only pick up and hug Ghost. His scrawny arms wrapped around her small frame. A soft purr rumbled out of his throat. His claws gently rubbed her scalp. His heart was filled with joy of feeling her white hair finally being able to grow back. How he wanted to braid it again.

Ghost placed her head on SkekEkt's shoulder. "Ekty…I'm sorry. I wish I could use my vision to see if you could get your voice back." She giggled as he rubbed his beak against her shoulder. "I suppose you're right. I do need to stop crying for a moment and figure out how to activate my Star Sight at will." She was set down and walked over to Frostcrystal's chair. "Are there any books I can look at tomorrow that should help with my ability?"

Frostcrystal thought for a moment. She looked at Amein who was asleep in the pot of water. Soft snoring heard in the metal. She turned her blindfolded gaze to Ghost. "Yes, but I'll join you to help with your magic." Frostcrystal flinched in surprise as Ghost hugged her hard. Hesitantly, she patted Ghost's head.

—-(The Next Morning)-

Ghost was the first to wake up. She stretched her muscles along her arms. Before long, she found some clothes laid down on her nightstand. They consisted of a dark blue tunic with multicolored trimmings, a jacket of the similar color and light blue pants. She held them up to have a better look. It was light and soft to the touch. She looked closely at the stitchwork. A smile crept on her face. It's nice to know Ekty is making clothes again.

Ghost crawled out of bed and began to get dressed. The pearl buttons felt smooth along her fingers. She brushed her hair with a comb that Frostcrystal was nice enough to give her. Her scalp tickled with each stroke. As she got the last of her shoes on, there was a knock on the door. She walked over and opened it.

SkekTek stood there with a calm expression. He was now dressed in a robin egg blue robe with a green sash tied across from it. Nova was perched on his right while Orchid perched on his left. "Well. Glad to see someone is finally up."

"Am I late?" Ghost picked up an eager Grumble into her arms.

"No." SkekTek stretched his neck. "You fell asleep on the sofa by the fire, remember? SkekMal carried you up the stairs."

Ghost took a moment to recall what happened last night. She was resting near the fireplace. The heat of the flames eased the strain in her wings. She gazed down at the shifting wool creature on her lap. Its lack of eyes didn't remove the weight it held. "It must be so hard for you right now." She stroked it gently. "I don't know if you can hear me, but I promise. I'll help restore you once I've learned magic."

SkekMal silently appeared next to her. He growled in surprise as the golden fleece jumped onto his back. "What's the story with these cursed things?" He tried to pull them away, but it refused to budge.

Ghost giggled. "I think they like you…and Rian." She let out a soft yawn. She laid down on the soft pelt. The small head laying on her shoulder.

SkekMal scoffed. "What a ridiculous notion! Just what possible reason would I have in common with-" He stopped the moment he saw Ghost laying still. Her breathing was the only thing to prove that she was alive. "...a Gelfling…" He sighed. "You're hopeless sometimes."

The Hunter leaned over. His claws hovered above her head. Then, he stroked the hair that was now starting to move down to her shoulders. He picked her up with ease and walked up the stairs.

Ghost's cheeks flushed at the memory. She shook herself. "Y-yeah…I remember having a conversation with him while I was-" Ghost looked around frantically. "Wheere's the silver pelt?" Her ears soon picked up the rustling of sheets nearby. The little head soon popped out.

SkekTek chuckled. "Well that answers that question." He allowed Orchid to crawl down his arm to reach Ghost. "Onica, SkekSa and SkekLi have just woken up."

"What about Shod? Is his hood fixed?"

SkekTek's expression went serious. "He's suffering a cold. He was awake for a brief moment before fever overtook him." He crossed his arms. "I think you should be careful with Frostcrystal. She was very cross with Emperor when she learned about Treasurer's old scars."

Ghost sighed. She picked up the living wool. Her fingers stroked it as it settled into her arms along with Grumble. Orchid was perched on top of Ghost's shoulder, scrunching against the fabric.

Suddenly, a loud clang echoed through the hallways. A crash sounded not too far behind. SkekTek and Ghost exchanged glances before they made a run for it. The source of the sound came from the kitchen. The group panicked as the sound of growling and snarling began to hit their ears.

They soon found SkekSo pressed against the wall by Frostcrystal. Everyone was shouting all at once, making it hard to decipher what they were talking about. Thick smoke started to flood the main hall of the house. Lore tried to pull Frostcrystal away, but the Canimoon held the rock creature back with her paws. Even Amein couldn't rip his mistress away from the Emperor. Ghost quickly opened while SkekTek stared at the entire event dumbfounded.

As Ghost flung the door open, she heard a surprised growl from the other side. She gasped in shock. "Oh! Hunter! I'm so sorry, I've should've been more careful!"

"WHAT'S GOING ON HERE?!" SkekMal's shout was enough to stop the chaos in a heartbeat. Everyone turned to the angry Skeksis that was covered in blood. He was rubbing his nose where the door smacked him.

"H-Hunter!" SkekSo tried his best to pry out of the claws, but he was stuck tight. "Help me! This crazy beast is trying to kill me!"

Frostcrystal growled at this. "You're one to talk! You've enslaved the Gelfling! Deceived Mother Aughra! More importantly, you've beaten your Treasurer to death!" Her face drew closer. Her snout barely touched his rotted beak. "I will not stand by and let you run this household. Let alone near the library! If you want to be in here. You! Will follow my rules!"

"Mistress please," Amein begged. The purple tower's eye appeared on the wall, causing Mother Aughra to jump. "I know you're upset by his barbaric attitude, but this is not how to handle this. I'll make sure he doesn't enter. Just go help Drum and SkekAyuk make breakfast."

SkekMal soon raised his blade toward Frostcrystal. "Drop him." He growled so low that it nearly matched Frostcrystal's. "Now." He was momentarily stunned as Ghost got between them. "Get out of the way, Ghost."

Ghost shook her head. "We all need to calm down for a moment. If we keep fighting each other like this, we'll never be able to help Ha'rar and everyone else in Thra." She turned to Frostcrystal. "Frostcrystal. I'm sorry that SkekSo treated you in such a rude manner." She raised her hands slowly. "Just put him down."

Frostcrystal stood there for a moment. Her blindfolded eyes never left SkekSo's face. Her claws were digging into his thin neck, threatening to draw blood. She let out a small sigh. "All right. But! You must do everything I say or you're dead. Understand?" She soon let go the moment SkekSo nodded his head. She turned to the rest of the group. That goes for all of you as well."

No one said a word. They simply watched Frostcrystal vanish into the kitchen. Amien gave a long sigh. "Oh dear…This is going to be a long day." He soon vanished from the walls.

"Bah!" Mother Aughra grunted. "Not one day and already Aughra is losing her mind!" She marched over to the kitchen.

Deet sighed. She turned to Rian. "We'd best join her." The two walked in as well with Brea, Tavra and All Maudra in tow.

Little by little, everyone trickled into the kitchen. Leaving Ghost with Orchid, Grumble, the pelt and SkekMal. She turned to the Hunter. She felt her stomach turn to lead at the sight of him. His clothes were covered in blood. A few droplets started to land on the floor. "A-are you alright?"

SkekMal looked at her annoyed. "Aside from a smack to the nose, I'm fine." He glanced down at his clothes. It didn't take for him to realize why she asked that. "I've managed to find some meat in this land despite the disease that's spreading. Just got dirtier than usual." He wanted to pet her head, but her recoil made him a bit hesitant. SkekMal groaned. "I'll go clean myself up. Just go have some burnt breakfast while I take care of the meat."

Ghost watched as SkekMal began to move the meat inside the house and dropped it in the middle of the room. She heard SkekAyuk let out a few streams of curses that reached her ears. Suddenly, she felt something quiver on her shoulder. Ghost turned her head to look at Orchid. "Are you ok?"

Orchid was balled up. Her body shivered violently. Y-yeah…I…think so…I just…feel like…something is pulling me down….

Ghost tenderly patted her little friend. "Don't worry. I'm sure some food will help. It could be just nerves." She looked back at the group that was starting to sit down. Not that I blame them. With that, Ghost walked into the kitchen.

—-(A few hours later in the library)-

Ghost, Brea, Orchid, SkekEkt, Cerebrite, Drum and SkekOk were all in the library. Ghost had pulled out some of the contents out of the box. Several pulsating stones glittered on the large table they were on. Each had a book in their hand. While they had yet to understand the words being written, the passages were filled with images of mighty creatures far different from Thra and colorful swirls that resembled magic.

Drum tilted his head. He began to rotate his book upside down. Then, he licked it. "Blegh! How help?"

SkekOk adjusted his spectacles. He gave a sigh. "It's 'How will the book help us?'" He took Drum's book from him and rotated it rightside up. Before he gave it back, he gazed at the contents. "Hmm…You've got a really good one there."

Drum looked up at him. His gaze was equivalent to a childling. Behind him, Cerebrite was also intrigued by what the old Skeksis was saying.

Brea also glanced up at him. "What is Drum reading exactly?" Her dubious expression held no concealment.

SkekOk turned his annoyance to Brea. Whatever admiration these two had were now clouded by betrayal and distrust. "It's simply a book that talks about plants and their edible properties."

You can understand the writing? Orchid's voice piped up. She was a little shaky as she clung to Ghost's sleeve, but it was hard to maintain her balance.

SkekOk sighed. "Ghost, do you know what that tiny bug is babbling about?"

Orchid gave a squeak of rage. I'll show you babbling! You overgrown poor excuse of a- She was interrupted by one of the rocks that began to hum.

Ghost lowered her book to look at SkekOk. "She was wondering if you could understand the writing in these pages. Plus, don't call her a bug, Speckles. You're old enough to know manners." She turned her focus on Orchid as the little creature made her to a pale blue rock that sat in front of them.

SkekOk's face soured. His beak went downward into a deep frown. "It's just….something that is a little familiar to me. That's all. I just don't remember much."

"Tell Drum about writing?" Drum raised his book to SkekOk. He inched closer than he dared. "T-tell how read?"

Cerebrite opened his mouth. Then closed it. He soon began to fiddle with his glasses.

Brea touched his arm. "Drum, how about I teach you to read?"

SkekOk leaned forward. He slowly lowered his book. "A charming proposal, princess. However, some of these words are far too difficult for the likes of you to understand."

Brea's mouth opened into a large "o". Her face started to turn red. "I beg your pardon, Scrollkeeper! You are the last person to even teach a childling how to even know the passage of Grotten literature to rules of the Vapran!"

Before long they started to argue. Their voices raised to a harsh shouting. A thumping of fists landed on the table. Cerebrite crept away to some nearby shelves. The stones rattling around. Orchid held onto her stone for dear life. Ghost and Ekty both glanced at each other in pure dismay.

Drum, on the other hand, was on the brink of tears. "Stooop!" He snatched two stones that were the closest to him. "Both teach! Both teach! No more fight!" He began to cry and run into the corner.

Ghost gave a heavy sigh. "Come on, you two. You should be lucky that Frostcrystal isn't here. Remember one of the rules she said?"

"Don't fight in the house," They both answered.

"Now look at what happened." Ghost pointed to a quivering Drum. "You made him hysterical. It only makes the concept of having emotions seem harmful." She set her book down and began to walk over to him. She then turned to the duo once more. "I know that things aren't ok right now, but again, fighting each other won't help. Frostcrystal knows that too. Please…Just teach Drum together." Ghost continued to walk over to Drum.

The Flowerweaver wasn't as distressed as before. Instead, he was cradling the stones in his claws. One a bright shade of green while the other was a whitish blue. He sniffed them very close to his nose. He slowly turned his head the moment Ghost touched his shoulder.

"Are you ok?" Ghost asked.

Drum nodded his head. "Me ok." He looked back at the stones. "Drum no like fights. Bad happen when fight."

Ghost nodded. "I know what you mean? But you're doing so well. You could barely speak a word since we first met."

"Feelings still icky." Drum went back to the stones. He gave each of them a gentle sniff. He rubbed his nose against the vibrating surface. A whimper escaped his throat.

Ghost leaned forward. "Are these the stones you grabbed?" She was about to take them, her hand outstretched. Then, Drum pulled them close to his chest. Ghost gave him a thoughtful gaze. "Would you like to keep them?"

Drum nodded. "Yes. F-friend and mother are here."

Ghost tilted her head. "How do you know that?"

The door to the library soon opened. Frostcrystal walked in with Amien and Lazuli attached to her back. She looked at everyone in the room. Her face was nearly expressionless. "I hear we had a bit of a spat while I was away."

Ghost immediately went to her chair. She picked up her book, the pages still where she left off. "Don't worry. Brea and SkekOk both offered to teach Drum how to read. However…They got carried away."

Frostcrystal was silent for a moment. Then, she noticed Orchid nestled against the stone the Threader was messing with earlier. "That's alright. At least these two were more civil. More than no good, hot-tempered, tight robes, rot-smelling-"

"Easy Frost," Amein said. "I'm not too keen on having to break up another fight…again."

Frostcrystal took a deep breath. "Let's get started without further delay." She quickly took her seat. She raised an arm so Lazul could crawl over to Ghost. Once Lazul was in place, she pulled out a few pieces of paper. Each one had a strange symbol on it. Then, she picked up one of the stones carefully. Her fur raised slightly as she shivered.

Brea tilted her head. "Are you alright?"

"Aside from feeling nauseous," Frostcrystal answered. "I'll live. As you know at this point, these are hearts extracted from the tribes of our homeland. It was meant to lift the burden in our hearts, but I don't believe in that nonsense." She slowly put it down. Then, she pointed to Orchid. "That heart, however, is very special."

Orchid turned to Frostcrystal. Huh?

"Orchid," Frostcrystal said. "Orchid is it?" She watched the little Threader nod. "Well, that heart belongs to the former spirit of air." She ignored the shocked gasps as she continued. "When King Neco took over, he tried to steal the power of the elemental spirits since they are the closest thing to the power of the three sisters. So some had to be killed off. There is a catch however."

"Being?" Brea asked.

"The candidates must prove some worth to their power." Frostcrystal picked up a book from the floor, opened to a certain page and set it down. It revealed a creature made out of clouds holding out a wind symbol to a Wind Leaper. "Each member of the clan must take a trial in order to be worthy of the respective element each clan represents."

Ghost held up what looked like a large star surrounded by other stars. "What connection does star magic have compared to the sun and moon?"

Frostcrystal began to set up the symbols in a certain order. The card with the sun was paired with a flame and a flower. The moon card was paired with an icicle and a gemstone. The star card was set up with a river and lightning bolt. "The elements were separated by each celestial body. The sun was always connected to earth and fire due to its warmth and capability of growth. The moon, like my clan, would be bound by ice and stone. Since the moon is known to hold a gentler light to preserve the past." She pointed to the star card. "The stars are said to see both the past and the future. It is said that water reflects the star's powers and if a person were to swim on a starry night would gain immense power. As for lightning, it's a power that is believed to move a star with ease. In actuality, stars were always associated with light."

SkekOk looked at the cards for a moment. "What sort of trials would one have to take?"

Frostcrystal stiffened for a moment. Her claws tapped against the table. Her mouth soured for a moment. "Let's just say it's one of survival. Only one person must come out on top. The loser is banished. There is a long trail filled with various creatures that you must overcome if you want to be worthy of their power."

Well…I guess that gets-ack! Orchid began to thrash violently. Her body rolled around the table. Then, it turned into a strange gallop from one book to the next. A strange shrieking noise tearing through her body.

Ghost quickly picked up her friend. Along with the stone. "Orchid! What's-"

A screech, even louder than Orchid's, vibrated the entire house.

Drum whimpered in fright. He pulled the stones closer to his chest. His tail wrapped tightly around his feet.

Brea rushed over to Drum with SkekOk in tow. The Scrollkeeper tenderly patted Drum's back. Brea looked at the rest of the group. "We'll look after Drum. Check out what's going on downstairs."

Ghost nodded. She cupped Orchid as best as she could. She opened the door and ran down the steps. Ghost nearly crashed into Rian. Her eyes met with his. "What's going on?"

"I think it's Shield," Rian answered. He led the way with Ghost following.

The two Gelflings ran outside to see Shield ram against a tree. Tavra tried to hold him back with rope that was tied to his leg. Nia and Gurjin held on to the other ropes around his neck. All Maudra Mayrin and Deet stared in shock at the entire scene. The other Skeksis were in a far corner. The Lords of the Crystal were trying to figure out what solution to use.

"Just kill that thing before it kills us," SkekZok said as Ghost came closer.

"Don't be a fool," SkekTek hissed. "Ghost cares too much of that creature to let that sort of thing happen."

"You're right." Ghost's voice became icy as she said them over the dim of Shield's screams. "What happened?"

SkekTek stared at her in shock. He nearly stumbled at the sight of her cold, hard gaze. "The…The Silk Spitter that you call 'Shield' just started acting strange."

"Yeah!" Gurjin grunted. He dodged a leg that almost hit him in the face. "One minute, he was hopping from tree to tree. The next, he came crashing down and rammed into things."

Mother Aughra went up to Ghost. She eyed a struggling Orchid. After a few seconds, she let out a gasp. "Ghost! Put the little Threader down!"

Ghost turned to Mother Aughra. "What? Why?"

G-Ghost! Shield's words brought everyone's attention to him. D-do as she says. A-ascendency isn't doing well.

Ghost was stunned. She heard about the Ascendency in a long time. Her heart sunk as she realized that Orchid and Shield were still part of the Arathim even if they were banished. She quickly set Orchid down. The air stone was trapped between her fingers.

Orchid began to breathe hard. Her body convulsed. Her small eyes glanced up to Ghost. G…Ghost…W-whatever you do, hold onto the stone. He wants it. She let out a screech that even made SkekTek break away from the other Skeksis and gaze upon Orchid with concern. I'm…sorry for what happens next. Ghost…thank you for being in my life. She let out another painful screech. She went limp on the ground.

Ghost's entire world went still. Her mouth went dry. "Orchid?" Her fingers wrapped around the stone of air. ! NO! Don't be dead! Don't be dead! Thra please spare them!

A weird noise hung in the air. It was a mixture of hissing and grunting. They all turned to Shield. A strange gleam entered his eyes. Hunger. Greed. Without warning, he charged at Ghost and Mother Aughra.

"Watch out!" SkekMal leapt at the group. He grabbed Ghost, Mother Aughra and SkekTek. They all went tumbling down a hill. They sprawled about once they hit the bottom. SkekMal groaned and rubbed his head. "That cursed Arathim! He almost-" A soft groan was heard from under him. He glanced down to realize Ghost was pinned under him.

The white Gelfling still didn't have the full length she had before the darkening, but it was long enough to spread out like petals of a flower. Her eyes glowed like jewel in the sunlight peeking from the shadows. How he wanted to have her lay there like that. SkekMal could almost imagine his beak making small works on- Upon realizing what he was thinking, SkekMal quickly backed away.

Ghost got up from her spot. She ran back to the house as fast as she could. She felt for Lazul. His arms gave her a small assurance that he was still there. However, a glance at her hands told her that the heart for the spirit of air was gone. Her ears soon picked up screams and crashes. She managed to arrive at the houses front where the All Maudra and Deet stood where they were. Shouts were heard from inside the house. Before Ghost could ask a question, a loud crash was heard as Shield burst forth from a window on the second floor.

Shield took a moment to cherish his prize that he held in his mandibles. A glowing green stone that pulsated. On his head was Orchid. The little Threader holding the stone that Ghost had dropped. They both gave a laugh that was unnerving. Their glances landed on Ghost. They spoke in unison, but it wasn't their own voices. Oh, dear little warrior. It's been a long time hasn't it?

Ghost froze in place. That voice…. "Y-you! What have you done to my friends?! Wait! What have you done to the Arathim?" She balled her hand into a fist. Her eyes blazing with anger. "If you've hurt them, so help me-"

A husky laugh resounded. Take it easy, bold one. I'm just here to collect my stones and be on my way.

"You're him aren't you? Murkon's brother." Ghost could barely conceal her rage. "The one who tried to eat the world."

Arathim hissed. Don't mention my brother's name. That lovestruck fool had been nothing than a nuisance! I'll be happy to get rid of you right now, but I'd best go before things get complicated. Tata! Arathim ran away. Vanishing into the green.

"NO!" Ghost ran after them. She ignored the shouts everyone were giving her.

"Ghost! Come back!" Deet shouted. She poked her head out of the damaged window. She fluttered out, Hup and Brea joining her.

SkekMal growled in frustration. "Stupid fool." He ran after them.

—-(Shield, earlier)-

Shield watched Ghost leave the table. Orchid joined her, crawling up onto her shoulder. He sighed. Wish I can be of help. If only someone aside from Ghost would understand a word I'm saying. He looked at Rian. He did feel a little bad that he lost his father and lover in a short span of time. Shield didn't have a father, but not having Ghost around and then suffering from the Darkening only made his heart twist harder than being kicked out of the Ascendency.

A rumbling sound snapped Shield out of his thoughts. He turned to see a large eye stare through the window. Treesong was staring at him intently, as if she wanted him to play. Treesong let out a low rumble once again. Heavy snorts resounded outside.

He couldn't help but want to play for a bit. I guess it could be a good distraction, Shield thought. He looked at Razz. The Bladewing was preening his feathers as everyone else left the table. Hey Razz, Shield said. He saw Spark glance at him with a startled look. He couldn't help but feel like she was something he didn't. Do Forest Saurio enjoy playing? What games do they play?

Razz was thoughtful for a moment. "Hmm….Razz seen no play in Forest Saurios. They locked up until feeding time."

Shield shivered at the thought. Even the food the Arathim ate had more freedom than these poor creatures did. He looked at the creature again. This time filled with pity. I guess I'll go find out myself, Shield said. Wish me luck! Oh! Want to play too?! I know some really fun stuff I've played with Ghost!

Shield was soon out the door. He began to walk over to the nearest set of trees. He soon let out a thread that was stored in his mouth. Watch closely, Tree. He began to place one end of the thread to the root of the tree. This is a cool trick I do with Ghost when I'm outside. I just have to make a large swing- Just as he said those words, a sharp pain radiated down his body.

He stumbled back. His cries escaped him before he could hold them back. It's been a long time, but he could feel it. The Ascendency. His fellow Arathim were all crying out in pain. Something attacked them. He was far away from them. The link wasn't not very strong since his time of exile. Then, he saw something slithering in his mind's eye. Who's there?!

A harsh laugh reached him. Red eyes glittered before him. Nice to see you again, bug! The shadow grew larger, almost as big as the trees in the forest. Pincers that would easily slice a Silk Threader in two. Long antennas elongated out like sinister black ribbons. The black carapace could barely glow in the light. It truly has been a long time.

Y-you! Shield stumbled back. His legs flailing in a feeble attempt to push back the mysterious assailant. The memory of what happened back at the castle came back. He began to recall the cold water surrounding him. The sinking sensation as he looked up at the light that still remained. What do you want?! Get out of here!

Don't bother. The black-armored body coiled around Shield. I already have control of your kind. His body began to melt, the tar-like substance leaking into the armor. I've gotten stronger over the years. Now it's your turn to perish.

Shield began to panic. His screams of agony drew attention from the others in the house. He banged his head against the tree. However, no matter what he did, he found himself sinking again. His body turned into a puppet that Murkon's brother now controlled. His panic went to a fever pitch when he saw Ghost coming towards him.

He couldn't move his body. He could even utter the words that he needed to saw for Ghost. Then, his mind turned into a glass orb. He charged at Ghost. Then, he picked up Orchid and ran inside. His body went up to the library. Startled screams all around him. Once the dark green stone was in his mandibles, he leaped out of a window.

Shield kept running. Green foliage zipped all around him. Where is he taking me? He thought. He struggled to fight back the urge to keep running, but a single bite from Orchid made it hard to concentrate. It's no good! I need to do something before it gets out of control!

"Shield! Orchid!"

Shield used every ounce of his strength to turn his head. He could feel his heart drop. He could see Ghost running towards him. Deet, Hup and SkekMal were close behind. Before he could even try to utter a word, his body went to a complete stop. His movements became slow and menacing as he turned around.

Shield began to grow frantic. Ghost! Don't! Just leave, I'll be ok. He realized that no one could hear him. It wouldn't matter though. His words were barely that convincing anyway. He watched as the event unfolds before him.

A blade began to come down at him. He dodged with lightning speed. Laughter escaped him, but it wasn't his own. The monster's wicked glee radiated through his head. He swiped at Ghost. To Shield's relief, she was able to dodge. Hup leaped onto his back and smacked him hard over the head. He backed into a tree, but the Podling got off.

"Shield! Snap out of it!" Ghost's voice grew frantic. Her fear reached him through the tainted fog.

"Don't bother," SkekMal said. "He may be too far gone."

"NO! He's always been there for me. Even when I was at my lowest, he was by my side." Ghost soon stood before him. Her eyes pleading. "I know you're in there." She mashed her hands together. "Do you know why I called you 'Shield'? It was because of how strong you are."

Shield could only stay still. He was breathing fine, but he couldn't help that the monster was planning something.

"When I got over my fever, I went to find you. I was worried you passed away from the cold." She sniffed. Her eyes teared up as she continued to talk about the memory. "After some time, I was able to find you back in the catacombs. Just happy and perky. Nothing seemed to phase you. You and Orchid were one of the best things that's ever to happen to me. I know you'd never hurt me." Her eyes narrowed. "Let alone let this old fool push you around!"

You insolent pest! Shield's foreleg raised high and brought it down hard.

"Ghost!" Deet cried.

Hup raised his spoon again. The wooden utensil was broken, the curve hanging lump and ready to fall off at any second. His legs bended as he was about to pounce.

Ghost shut her eyes for a moment. She braced herself against the possible pain that would cut through her. A small rush of air hit her face, but the pain didn't come. She slowly opened her eyes to see Shield's leg hovering over her face. Only a few inches.

The mysterious entity grunted. In Shield's mindscape, it began to materialize before him. He returned to his normal form. What is the meaning of this?! I'm supposed to control you! You're part of the Arathim!

That maybe true, Shield retorted. He was able to physically lower his leg before he spoke again. But I'm Shield. A friend to a white Gelfling who's a servant to all of Thra. A friend to a tiny Threader that listens and learns. I wish to make friends no matter what. I'm going to protect my friends no matter what! He soon heard rushing water that was only a few feet from him. You want power, then come and get it!

Shield ran toward the sound of water. He ignored the shouts and commands. I'm a shield, he thought. A shield is supposed to be strong for others. He felt Orchid bite him again. He unleashed a thread, attached it to Orchid and threw her to a nearby rock. Sorry Orchid. The foliage soon gave way to a cliff that was at least ten feet above a river. The faint trickling he heard earlier now transformed into a full blown roar.

Shield soon recalled the memory once again. Drowning beneath the waters. The darkness that was below him. His whole body shook with fright. His mandibles were dangerously close to dropping the pulsating green stone that rested. It was growing brighter by the second, taking in a light green color.

A dark laugh reached him. Aw! Giving up? After your bold speech earlier, I nearly believed you. The dark entity laughed again. This time he tightened his coils around his body.

Shield had a hard time breathing. His remaining thoughts go back to Ghost. He heard footsteps. Ghost was the first to arrive with Hunter close behind. With renewed strength, he took a step forward. Ghost…Thank you…For everything…He jumped over the cliff. The wind whistled around him. He could hear screams of no go through his head.

Cold water hit his shell upon impact. He only sank a few feet as the currents dragged him away. He could hear more hissing from the dark entity. A weird sensation of his body crawled into him. A painful sensation where he felt like being ripped in two. Shield saw the beating heart slip away from him. Its pulsing beat was the only thing he could hear as the darkness began to claim him.

Suddenly, he woke up to a strange surrounding. It was a forest. Not like the Stonewood Forest. Actually, the leaves on the tree in front of him were a pea green color with aquamarine veins. The bark was a bright orange color that nearly hurt his eyes. Trills of unfamiliar birds were heard high into the treetops.

Where am I? Shield looked around. Ghost? Orchid? Isn't this home? No wait. I would've heard the song by now.

Heavy footsteps echoed deep within. A large creature soon appeared before him. It looked like a regular Flowerweaver. However, he had plants coming out of his body. Trees and flowers creeping out from the cracks in his armadillo shell. Large sloth claws gently brushed the flowers without cutting them. His dark green eyes were bright against his dark brown pelt. His ear twitched. "Why hello there. What brings you to my woods?"

Shield stood there. Stunned, he almost didn't know what words to actually say. He shook himself. Are…Are you the Earth Spirit?

The Flowerweaver looked thoughtful. He tapped his claws on his chin. Then he smiled. "Why yes! Yes I am!" He extended his claw. "Nice to meet a nice bug like you. What's your name, friend?"

S-shield. My name's Shield. I'm actually an Arathim. Shield bowed his head. His legs wobbled for a moment. I'm so glad Ghost taught me how to bow.

The Earth Spirit laughed. "No need for such formality." He handed him a fruit. A plump apple-like fruit with an array of colors. "Come eat."

Shield admired the kind gesture. He stopped short before he could touch it. No…I can't. I have to go back. He stared at a path winding down between two trees.

"Go back? But you just got here." The Earth Spirit protested. He began to fiddle with white flowers growing behind his ear. "Why go back?"

Shield stared at the Earth Spirit. Because I have two friends back in Thra waiting for me. They need me. There's evil destroying my home and my people. I can't go on living like this. Or I'm trapped in some strange limbo.

At those words, The Earth Spirit gave a heavy sigh. He lowered himself, his nose practically touching Shield. "Shield of the Arathim. You are probably the most devoted candidate I've ever seen. I can see that you're loyal to those who care for you and return that loyalty in full." He moved his claws to his chest. He created a crevice big enough for him to reach in and pull out a pulsing light. "Take this light. The power of the Earth Spirit is yours."

Shield stared in shock. But wait! Doesn't it belong to your people? Don't they need it the most?

The Earth Spirit sighed again. Tears began to rain down his eyes. "My people used to hold trials for who would get this power. Most of the other clans would kill for the sake of that power. My…previous successor didn't want that." He sniffed. "None of the Flowerweaver clan wanted that. The last one resulted in a dead child and a pregnant mother."

Shield shivered at this. They would really go that far?

"Now meeting you, I know this power is in good hands. Er..Legs I mean. I've withheld this power from King Neco. Long after my body was gone. Please. You're the only one who could do this."

Shield looked at the orb. He couldn't believe he was chosen for such a large task. Him. Being a powerful being that could command all the plants of Thra. Making new things grow. He thought about how Ghost wanted to make that dream of Arathim, Gelfling, Podling and Skeksis to truly exist as one in Thra. What he had been through to rescue her from the castle…I…want to make that dream come true. I don't want my people to be seen as vermin anymore and I don't want Gelflings to suffer. The moment he said those words a green light surrounded him. The ribbons coiled around him, but didn't hurt him. They felt quite warm.

The green light became so bright that it blinded him once again. Shield soon found his body began to stretch. His legs became larger. His shell stretched out. He didn't fully understand what was happening, but it assured him that things were going to change.

—-(Orchid, Stonewood Forest)-

Orchid laid on the ground for a long time. The world swam around her. Her legs curled inward, refusing to move. Pain burst with every movement she made. It hurts…She whimpered. It hurts…

Orchid didn't know how but Shield was able to overcome the control of the monster and sent her flying into a tree trunk. She was glad that Shield had been able to stop her biting. How she hated biting one of her dear friends. She hated the idea of trying to control Ghost or the other Gelfling or SkekTek even more. She felt they've all suffered enough.

"Shield!" Ghost's scream stretched throughout the forest. Then, it was followed by a big splash.

Orchid soon went cold. No…Shield wouldn't! He's deathly afraid of water. Then, she remembered what happened back at the castle. How he tried to brave the water below him to make his thick net to cross. The reality of what happened finally sunk in. She let out sounds that resembled crying. She continued this state until the dark deity was looming over her head.

That stupid bug had ruined everything. I need to get the air element before I leave. He coiled his body around her. Get it! Now!

Ghost! Ghost! Orchid thrashed around. Her legs tried to pull away the strings that were trying to make her move. She continued crying out. She mentally prayed to Thra as she heard growling. Each step was bringing her closer and closer to the stone that was only a few feet away from her.

Suddenly, a flash of orange claws scooped her up. The cool surface of a few pearls pressed against her. Orchid could hear a loud screech and something moving to the bushes. Only two things were going through her mind. S-stone…G-Ghost… Her legs were failing her to give any command.

"Easy now…" SkekTek's gentle voice reached her. His voice felt like a soothing cup of tea after a day of being in the harsh rain. "Easy now…" He held her up close to have a better look at her. "Hmm…It's a good thing I decided to keep some pearls with me after what Frostcrystal told me. Whatever caused you harm seems to have an adverse reaction to it." He walked over to where the stone had fallen. Without warning, a gust of air surrounded them. The winds whipped around the Scientists robes.

Orchid soon found herself somewhere else. It looked like some mountain. There were trees that were spiky looking. Curious, she walked over to one and touched it. The texture of the needle-like leaves were prickly, but didn't hurt. Instead, it gave a wonderful smell that she's never smelled before. Suddenly, she heard a faint whoosh.

Orchid grew nervous. She turned around. Hello? She was met by no response. She moved in a slow circle until she saw a pair of big yellow eyes staring at her. Orchid shrieked, leaping back in fright. Wh-who are you?

The eyes back away to reveal a creature that was a mix of a flying squirrel and a sifaka. Her fur was a variety of pinks, purples and light blue. Around her neck was a necklace composed of the smallest flowers and seeds possible. A few pearls jingled along her tail. "Dear me. How rude! I hope you don't say that sort of things to your higher ups. Let alone in the presence of the spirit of air."

Orchid bowed. I-I'm sorry. I thought I was alone in this place. Wait…Spirit of Air? She glanced up at the creature. Forgive me for sounding rude…again, but do you um…know that you're…uh…

"Dead." The Spirit of Air sighed. "Yes. Unfortunately, I do recall how I've died. Of course I wasn't going to give King Neco the power I've been holding onto for years."

Orchid gave a sympathetic look. I'm sorry to hear that. My name's Orchid by the way.

At this, the Spirit of Air's eyes lit up. "Oh! What a pretty name! How did you come across it, little bug?"

Orchid gave a little huff. And she calls me rude…She grumbled under her breath. I'm Arathim. I was given this name by my dear friend, Ghost. Her gaze turned thoughtful. She rubbed her legs together. She told me I resembled a flower. The name's been stuck like that. Orchid explained what Arathim is, the Gelflings and all the creatures in Thra.

The Air Spirit tilted her head. "She sounds like a dear friend."

She is, Orchid said. She looked down to a beaten path that was hidden by the spiky trees. Which is why I need to go back.

A thunderous crack was heard. Orchid looked up to see the Spirit of Air pull something out of her chest. It was the same stone from before. It pulsed on her palm. A strange rhythm was attuned with the wind itself. She lowered it down to present it.

Orchid stared in shock. You're giving this to me?! But wait! Don't I need to do some sort of trial?!

The Spirit of Air only shook her head. "That shouldn't matter now. My home is gone. Yours will be too if you don't do anything. I saw how you were fighting off Hemlioan's control."

Hemlioan?

"Murkon's brother. He was imprisoned after the three sisters and Auries were killed." The Spirit of Air flinched. "I don't know how he got out, but you're the only ones to stop him from getting all the elements! Please! Take this power before he comes back!"

Orchid stared at it for a moment. She remembered what Frostcrystal had said about the trials to obtain it. They spilled so much blood just to obtain the power of the sky…But…She's willing to give this to me as a successor. She thought of Ghost, Shield and SkekTek. She recalled how the scientist would calm her anxiety when she had to stay in his room for a bit. The trouble he would go through to pick her up and even made the effort to actually understand her. They're all doing so much for me. Now, I want to return the favor. She reached out to the stone.

The light pulsed out. It came at her like a wave in an ocean. Her body began to change. It stretched in places she never thought were possible. Her head turned into clay for a moment. It felt like she was flying with a pair of invisible wings on her back.

"Take care, Orchid." The Spirit of Air gave her a small smile as she faded. "Protect your home well."

Then, she was back on the ground. Orchid took several breaths to clear her head. She slowly looked up. The three suns were pouring down their light on her, giving her warmth after some time in darkness. She tried to move but her body felt oddly heavy.

"O-Orchid?" SkekTek's voice was oddly shaky. No doubt from the crazy winds that were whipping around him earlier.

Orchid moved her head towards him. "Yes. It's me." She blinked for a moment. Wait…Was that my voice just now? When she spoke, it held a sing-song tune compared to the guttural chatter of her kind. She then noticed something about SkekTek. The nervous Skeksis was almost her height. "What happened to you? Did the stone make you shrink?" She pointed as she said this. To her shock, she soon saw a hand in front of her.

"I didn't shrink," SkekTek corrected. He fiddled with his robe. Soon, he pulled out a small mirror. He approached her. "You grew and changed." He held it up for Orchid to have a better look.

Orchid nearly fainted at what she was seeing before her. Her face was similar to a Silk Spitter without the mandibles. Her purple eyes went well with the pale pink shell and the pinkish wings that sat on her back. She looked down to see her legs still held the flower-like look. She tried to move one leg, but went down in the process.

SkekTek caught her just as she was about to fall. "Easy now. I don't think you're used to your new form yet. You may even have to squeeze through the door frame."

"Tek? Orchid?" Ghost's crackling voice cut through the undergrowth. She soon appeared before them. Her face was haunted. Tears stains glistened in the light. She was gripping a stiff that was large enough to be made into a staff. Her eyes widened at the sight of Orchid. "O-Orchid?! Is that you?! What happened to you?"

Orchid took some time to move her legs and arms. It still didn't feel like her body. She even cringed as she spoke. "I don't know…I think the heart of the Air Spirit turned into this. She said I was worthy of it."

Before long Gurjin, Deet, Hup and Rian soon joined them. Grumble and Fearless sat on SkekMal's back, looking tired than ever before. They all stared in surprise at the strange bug-like creature standing before them.

"Well that's something you don't see every day," Gurjin said. His eyes went up and down Orchid's form.

Hup was slack-jawed for a moment. He looked in the distance then back at Orchid. The Podling scratched his head, looking down at the ground.

Orchid did a shy wave. "H-hello everyone. It's me…Orchid."

Deet stared in amazement. "Wow! Orchid! You look so beautiful!"

Orchid touched her hands nervously. "Uh…Thank you."

Suddenly a heavy crash echoed across the forest. Everyone turned to the source of the noise. A large shadow crept at them. Weapons were drawn out once again. The only one who wasn't as cautious was Ghost. The white Gelfling made a slow step toward the noise. They all flinched as another tree fell over, birds flying all over the place.

"Oh come on!" A voice vibrated through the trees. The voice was husky and held the same insect-like tone. "Ghost! Orchid! ANYONE HERE?!" As the shadow got closer, it was soon followed by a familiar head. It was a mixture of greens and browns. A tree sat on his back carrying a strange batch of fruits. His green eyes soon landed on them. "Ghost! It's me! Shield!"

Ghost shook. Her hands dropped the stick she was holding. She wobbled over to him. Then, her breathing hitched. She kept staring deep into his eyes. "P-prove it. Why were you named Shield?"

The creature tilted his head. Vines were seen draping over his small horns on his head. "After I got better, I went back down to be with the rest of the Arathim. I was stunned to see you again. You were a bit sick but you wanted to make sure I was alright. I couldn't believe a Gelfling would care about me. Especially since it was my fault for causing you to almost drown." He sighed at the memory. "However, I got that name because my friend said I was strong not just for Arathim but for Gelfling too. A strength that carried everything."

Upon hearing this, Ghost finally burst out crying. "I was so worried," She sobbed. "I-I wanted to go after you! Mal stopped me before I could-" She saw Shield walk over to her like a newborn Landstrider. He crashed into a few trees until he was able to reach her. She laughed at the sight of it. Once he was close enough, she hugged him. "I'm glad you're ok."

Shield returned the hug. Orchid was soon able to join them, her thin limbs wrapped around them. A soft purr erupted from his throat. "Me too, Ghost. Me too."