Tormented

Chaotic

Screw me for the title, I couldn't think of a better on =-=. Anyways, sorry for the late update, my work schedule was...screwed up. Might not be able to type as often as I use to. 'But' I'll still be able to make Monday updates...barely. Anyway, this chapter I am not too proud of. I don't know why but I'm just not. But enjoy nonetheless lol.

Thanks to Flamingmence, Lazypersons, Kaiser, and Guest for reviewing! Appreciate it! ^_^

Edited: 9/12/2021

Ever since he was a pup, Vellak had heard stories from his sire and dame about the House of Wolves, the traitorous house that had abandoned them during the Battle of Twilight Gap. But he had known better, know better that a chance at 'regaining' the Traveler would never slip by a House, no matter how cowardly they were. So, when he had started hearing stories of the Reef turning the Wolves into their personal attendants and entertainment, that is when everything started to piece together.

Being enslaved would also give them another reason as to why they had ceased further answering any of the Houses calls.

Nonetheless, when Vellak entered their territory, he had expected their treatment to be of low life. The Awoken, after all, do not see their race in a good light. So, he was surprised that upon entering their space, that the halls were filled with Wolves flitting about, all in good form as they carried supplies to other rooms, chattering amongst themselves as if it were another day. This did not mean they did not notice their presence however, as when Inkolas and Anikis led them down the hall, a handful ceased in their tasks, staring warily at Vellak and his littermates. It didn't help that they wore different colors.

However, much to Vellak's relief, majority of the Wolves left them alone, although a few did get a little curious; Axtris snapped at those who had wandered too close. Olkar eventually had to push his sister to the middle, keeping her in check.

Listening to his sister grumble as they finally made it to a door at the end of the hall, Anikis reached out and rapped at the door with his knuckle.

"Sir Variks," He said, "this is Anikis. We have guests."

"Tell them that I am busy."

Clicking his mandibles together at this, Vellak turned and gave Anikis a blank stare; apparently this did little to deter the young Vandal as he reached out and tapped the door once again, "Our guests are from the House of Spirits, Sir Variks."

This time, there was a pause, a silence long enough where Vellak knew that somehow, that had caught this individual's attention. Then, he heard the familiar sound of a chair skidding across the floor followed by heavy and lumbering footsteps. The door slid open moments later and they were greeted with a Fallen dressed in green cloths and furs. He was tall for a Vandal but what caught Vellak's attention was that, not his lower arms, but his upper arms have been docked, replaced with mechanical arms that held a staff.

"You are of House of Spirits, yes?"

Vellak couldn't help but pause at the similarity of speech between Ixrsis and Variks, blinking rapidly before regaining composure, "Yes. And you are of House Judgement?"

There were several low chuffs at his question, Vellak spotting the way Variks' eyes gleamed. Quickly suspicious at the lack of an answer, Vellak found himself staring down the front of Variks' tunic, and then paused. There, imprinted on the front, were several white horizontal lines surrounded by four circles, infused together and the pattern finished with simple strikes on each corner. He recognizes that symbol anywhere; his mother had always drawn them out whenever they were alone, whispering verbal histories that would have gotten her arms docked. And perhaps, executed.

"You doubt my status as part of House Judgement, yes?" Vellak lifted his eyes back onto Variks, "I do not blame you. Hard to believe, yes." The Vandal, older judging from his scent, then brushed past the group and motioned with one of his mechanical arms to follow, "I am the last of my house. No other alive. Difficult to maintain records alone."

"But you are not alone." Olkar blurted; Vellak placed a hand onto his shoulder, a silent sign to remain quiet. He did not take the hint, "Vellak is a Scribe of our House."

Clicking his mandibles together in annoyance, Vellak decided to give his brother a harsh squeeze on the shoulder, hearing him squeak before releasing his grip. He then felt the elder Vandal's eyes settle upon him.

"You are a Scribe?"

Vellak dipped his head in apology, "House Spirits long ago believed that House Judgement had been a dead house." He lifted his head, locking his luminescent eyes with Variks' once more, "Our Kell decided that it was best not to let any part of our history to die and as such, she nominated me to be recordkeeper."

There was a low rumble from Variks, the elder Vandal tilted his head at Vellak curiously, "Then why are you here, and not with House?"

"Surely you have heard of the Guardian who had helped form the alliance between House of Spirits and his people possible?" Vellak took note at the flicker of surprise in Variks eyes, "since he is considered a part of our House and an important figure, we are tasked that his part of history is described as well."

Another low rumble from Variks, the older Eliksni tapped his jaw.

"Curious," Was all he said before nodding to himself and then motioned once more for the group to follow, turning to lead them down the hall, "Awoken are having a celebration." A chitter and then a raspy laugh, "Only fair that we have a celebration as well."

There was a rumble of interest from Axtris, "Is that where we are heading?"

Instead of receiving a verbal answer, the group instead earned a nod, following Variks until he came to a pause to one of the many doors, letting it slide open before taking a step inside. As Vellak entered first, he immediately spotted the banners pinned onto the walls of the room; it seems the Awoken aren't as cruel as he thought if they were allowed to keep the symbol of the Wolves.

As they further ventured into the room, the occupants of the room paused as they passed, chittering quietly amongst themselves as their eyes trailed after them. They were all seated upon what seemed to be stairs, the middle parted to allow easy access to them where they were all seated. Canisters of Ether, both full and empty, were scattered about and plates of what Vellak smelled to be of raw meat in their lap. Of what, he cannot recognize but the scent was enough to make his mouth water. Fresh meat was hard to come by, even with their newfound alliance with the Guardians. There was a reason they were called 'scavengers' for a while.

Nonetheless, the interested stares faded when they saw Variks, Vellak realized as when the green clad Eliksni passed, the others would quickly return to current task, resuming their meal or conversation. It didn't take long for Variks to find an empty seat and then motioned for Vellak and his siblings to follow.

"So, this Guardian that you are following," Variks said as he reached out and plucked up a nearby Ether, this one full, and moved to the packs around his waist, "What reason is he here?"

"A treaty. With the Ashen Ones. He and his pack are here in order to forge an alliance."

Vellak wanted to reach out and smack Olkar behind the head; he shouldn't answer questions so easily, especially to another Eliksni of a different House. But, judging from the way Variks nodded but kept his attention on refilling his Ether, Vellak realized he knew already. As such, he decided to restrain himself.

"The Guardians are daring." Variks stated, as he finished his work, "To forge a treaty with the Queen."

This caught Axtris' attention, ceasing her snarling as two curious dregs as she asked, "Why? Is she dangerous?"

There was a chuckle from the elder Eliksni, "Dangerous, yes, but not why the Guardians are daring. She is just, 'difficult', to please."

Vellak couldn't help but huff at this, "Then our stay here will be longer than we have anticipated."

Variks blinked curiously at them, his mandibles clicking together; Vellak then saw him glance down at the pack around his and his littermates' waist, "Did you not bring enough Ether?"

"Originally, yes." Vellak answered before turning and narrowing his eyes at Axtris and Olkar; both looked away sheepishly, "That is until 'these two' thought it was a good idea to follow."

At his words, Axtris turned and narrowed her four eyes at him, "What? You know as well as I do that you cannot defend Pure One 'and' record history with your back of yours."

In honesty, as both Scribe and the eldest of the three, Vellak should have kept his cool better. However, he found himself snarling, loud and threatening enough that not only Axtris, but Olkar also scooted away.

"Just because I am crippled does not mean I am incapable of defense." He hissed out, watching as Axtris lowered herself to the floor in submission; she let out a low growl herself, although meeker and quieter than his.

"Nothing to be angry about."

All eyes turned towards Variks, the latter of which waved over a nearby Dreg, the latter of which nodded and skittered away. Moments later, they returned and in their arms were several familiar glowing canisters. Laying them next to Variks' feet before wandering off, the elder Vandal than leaned over and grabbed one of the Ether cans and held one out to Axtris. Watching his sister lift herself off the floor, Vellak couldn't help but follow the expression that had settled on her face: doubt.

Variks must have noticed for he then chuckled and said, "Friends of Guardians. Friends of Variks."

He then motioned for her to take it and, reluctantly, Axtris took the Ether from his hands. Variks then did the same to Olkar, the latter of which grabbed the Ether without pause; he always had been the more trusting between the three of them.

"Ever since the Rebellion by the House of Wolves, there has been an 'excess', of Ether." Variks said as he finally held out a cannister to Vellak. He narrowed his eyes at the elder Vandal as the latter continued, "Our remaining Servitors still process the same amount before the coup."

Glaring at the cannister, Vellak finally accepted the Ether after moments pause, "You must have great faith in this Queen to not join the Rebels."

A laugh emitted from Variks, "That and the Queen has the aid of the Guardians." He then leaned over and picked up two more Ether cannisters, confusing Vellak until he glanced back and saw Inkolas and Anikis; he had forgotten the two were there. The two Vandals accepted Variks' gesture as he continued, "As you know, Guardians are powerful allies. Even a small faction can be of great aid when the time comes." He leans against his staff, "I knew the instant when the Queen sent the signal for aid, that the Rebels did not stand a chance."

"So, rule number one here, do not mess with the Queen." Olkar chipped in; this earned him a chuckle from Variks as the latter said, "Correct."

Questions popped into Vellak's head, clicking his mandibles together as he felt his curiosity grew despite his suspicion. He had heard of the horror stories, the way the Awoken treated their people on the Reef but, to Vellak, it seems that as long as their loyalty remains to the Queen, they are left alone, judging from the way they are free to roam their territory. Wanting to learn more, he then parted his mandibles to ask a question.

That is when a screeching cry permeated from his sister.

Snapping his attention towards Axtris, he saw her throw a Dreg over her shoulder, trapping them underneath her body as she locked two of their arms behind their back. She was snarling, growling as her four eyes glowed bright against her carapace, "You dare you touch my person!?"

"Axtris!" Hearing his brother call out to their sister, Vellak saw from the corner of his eyes as he dashed towards the female Eliksni, wrapping his arms around her waist and lifted her away from the Dreg. She started howling and spitting, kicking and reaching out towards the Dreg, the latter of which scooted away to widen the distance.

"Female! She's a female!"

That is when Vellak felt a chill run down the length of his back, especially when all eyes turned towards Axtris; taking in their scent now, he had failed to realize that there were no other female Eliksni in their presence. Except for his littermate.

"What if I am!?" Axtris growled, grasping her four hands onto her brother's arms and lunged forward in a vain attempt to escape Olkar's grasps; she has failed to notice the eyes upon her, "that gives you no right to shove your hands under my armor you whelp!"

"Axtris! Calm down!"

Watching his brother struggle to keep his sister under control, Vellak then absorbed the meaning of her words. He then turned his attention towards the Dreg and glared at him with a low snarl.

"What is this about 'intruding' upon my littermate's space?"

The Dreg in question cowered at his stare, "I, I…"

Vellak found himself moving without realizing it, but the rage, the anger that someone had touched his sister without her consent was enough to make him act. He swung his staff at the Dreg's head, hearing a 'crack' as it connected and sent the smaller Eliksni to the floor. The Dreg shrieked before clutching his head and Vellak spotted the dribble of vermillion blood between his fingertips. Opting to ignore them, Vellak then shifted his staff on his hands, using it to stabilize him as he stood. He then announced to the room, "Anyone who violates my littermates 'or' harms them in anyway with have to deal with 'me'." His eyes glowed dangerously as Vellak finished, "Do you understand!?"

He didn't mean to shout his last words however, he cared little when they all had looked at his sister as if she was nothing more than a prize, an object to be claimed, and he couldn't help but feel satisfied when they all jumped and cowered at his shout. Letting out a breath, Vellak then resumed his seat before shifting his attention towards Inkolas and Anikis; Inkolas raised a brow at him while Anikis looked away, shifting uneasily in his seat.

"Vellak." He turned his attention towards Variks, only to reel when the elder Vandal bowed his head, "I must apologize for the action of the House of Wolves, they are, 'estranged' when it comes to the females of our kind."

Vellak couldn't help but narrow his eyes, "What do you mean?"

"W-What Sir Variks is trying to say is that there are no female Eliksni here on the Reef." It was Anikis who spoke, Vellak watching as he forced himself to look him in the eyes, "It has been that way for years."

There was a brief pause, a blink from Vellak, and then Olkar finally spoke, "Wait, then how…"

"We are of many years, young one." Variks answered, "Despite her 'leniency', the Queen has been keeping a 'tight' hold on the Wolves, especially after the rebellion."

"That is why you see no hatchlings or pups here." Inkolas added, crossing his arms as he rumbled out, "No females, no capability to breed, and in the mind of the Queen, no signs of a threat."

Vellak couldn't help but narrow his eyes, doubtful but curious, "What happened to the females? Surely there must have been plenty after the Reef Wars."

That is when Inkolas let out a low growl, "The Prison of Elders."

"The Prison of Elders?" Axtris had calmed down however kept her eyes upon the room; she had finally noticed their stares and now she had seated herself behind her brothers. She maybe fierce but she knows when to get protection when she sees it.

"An arena and a prison." Variks answered, mandibles clicking, "All sorts of prisoners there. Cabal. Vex. Even of our own. Battles to the death there occurs, specifically against Guardians."

"A bloodsport?" Vellak asked with disgust, snarling when Variks nodded, "Why would the Queen…"

"A way to free up space, more likely." It was Inkolas who answered, scoffing as he said, "Cannot keep jailing prisoners if there is no more space to be had."

"But it also gives them a chance at freedom." Anikis pointed, "True, the survivors are sent back to their cages if they lost. However, if they are somehow victorious against the Guardians, then they are granted freedom and are either allowed to stay at the Reef or, to return home."

That is when Inkolas snorted, releasing another scoff as he said, "However, as you know of a Guardian's prowess, you can imagine how often 'freedom' occurs."

"Not often?" Vellak turned and gave his younger brother a blank stare; it was an obvious answer. He must have taken the silence as answer enough for he then added, "I then can imagine that your views on Guardians are not very 'positive' then?"

Inkolas gave Olkar a blank stare of his own, "What do you think, Olkar of the House of Spirits?" He then straightens out his posture, making himself appear bigger as he then asked, "Tell me of 'your' views on the Guardians? Do you see them in a 'positive' light?"

That is when Vellak heard his brother go quiet, a thoughtful look flashing over his eyes as he clicked in mandibles together. Pondering if he should jump into his littermate's defense, Vellak then saw no need as Olkar then answered, "If I were to be honest, I was unsure of them at first." He saw his younger brother quickly glance over at him, "They killed our mother, our other littermates, and in years, they showed little remorse for their killings. The Guardians only cared for reclaiming their lost civilization; no different from us. But that was before we met Pure One and his pack." A wistful rumble can be heard from the young Vandal, "They treated my surviving littermates and I with respect and accepted us wholly as another pack of their own."

Hearing Olkar pause, this prompted Vellak to follow his gaze. There was doubt clearly in Inkolas' eyes. This did little to stop his brother as he continued, "You doubt me now, Inkolas of the House of Wolves, but I promise that once you meet Pure One and his pack, my words will ring true. No lies."

There was another scoff from Inkolas but he didn't respond. Instead, he said, "With how Guardians are, this 'alliance' between them and your House will not last."

Vellak couldn't help but growl at his words, "What is with that tone of voice, Inkolas?" He pondered upon standing again; he decided against it when his back started to ache, "What are you trying to imply?"

A pause from Inkolas, Vellak spotting a flash of hesitation in his eyes before the Vandal then spat, "I am 'implying' that your 'House' is nothing more than a fake."

No sooner had the words left Inkolas' lips when Vellak gripped his staff tight, a rumble building up in his throat; he heard his siblings mimic his vocalizations.

Saying aloud his thoughts must have given Inkolas bravado for the Vandal them held himself higher, the hesitation gone from his posture, "An alliance? With the Guardians? What kind of House has the right sense of mind to forge an alliance with a faction that had murdered our people for centuries?" His four eyes then glowed as he snarled out, "I know what kind of House that would side with Guardians. Ones who are too weak to survive on their own. In other words. Cowards!"

Vellak, despite his crippled status, would have ignored the pain from his body and threw himself at the Vandal, if it wasn't for the fact that Axtris beat him to it.

She let out a screeching cry of rage, anger as she crashed into Inkolas, sending them both sprawling onto the floor. The look of shock on the Vandal's face was all too satisfying, especially when Axtris grabbed him by the shoulders and slammed him back first onto the floor.

"How dare you…" Axtris glowered, "Insult our House!"

Hearing her roar, Vellak then watched as his sister brought a fist back, her intent clear however, much to his disappointment, Inkolas used his lower hands to shove the female Eliksni off of him, leaving her reeling as he scrambled onto his feet. Regaining her balance, Axtris was quick to launch herself back at Inkolas, however, Vellak watched as the Vandal leaned to the side, easily dodging her tackle. At least, that is what he thought.

Instead, he heard Inkolas let out a choke as Axtris snatched his cloak, pulling once to make it taught and bringing him back onto the floor with her. Feeling the floor shake beneath him at their fall, Vellak pondered if he should intervene. He decided not to when Axtris finally managed to gain the upper hand and gave Inkolas a good solid punch to the face.

Seeing the dazed look on Inkolas, Vellak then finally noticed the way one of his upper arms scrambled for leverage, only to see him grab an empty ether cannisters. Realizing his plan, Vellak attempted to yell out a warning, only to see that Axtris had seen his fumbling and attempted to jump back.

Inkolas swung and missed his intended target – more than likely Axtris' face – however it had hit something, as the familiar sound of 'clang' resounded through the air as metal slammed into metal. That is when Axtirs let out a shriek, one filled with surprise as she fell to the floor, and that is when Vellak noticed one of her legs slide across the room.

Choking back a shout, Vellak watched as it came to a stop next to Inkolas, the latter of which pushed himself onto his knees, glanced down at the leg, then to Axtris, then back to the leg.

"A prosthetic?" The Vandal said aloud, a mix of bewilderment and concern settling into his eyes only for Vellak to see Axtris tackle him back onto the floor. This time, the back of Inkolas' head slammed onto the floor with a 'crack', stunning him long enough for Axtris to swing another punch. This one had enough force in it to cause his head to snap to the floor and Axtris gave him no time to recover before she swung another punch, causing him to snap to the other side. That is when Vellak decided to intervene.

"Axtris! Enough!"

This was enough for Olkar to finally move, the smaller Vandal scrambling over and tearing Axtris off of Inkolas, the latter of which let out a wheeze and a cough before attempting to even sit up. Vellak spotted tears forming in his four eyes.

"Let go of me!" Axtris roared, struggling in Olkar's grip, "He deserves it! He-"

Her shouts went silent as the pack around Olkar's waist glowed and, much to Vellak's dread, Trikxas' star shaped form materialized into the room. He could feel all eyes shift away from Axtris and Inkolas to the Ghost, floating, exposed, for all of them to see.

"Enough!" Trikxas shouted, ignorant of the eyes now upon her, "What would your sire say if he sees you acting like this!?" Her words were enough to reign Axtris into silent, going completely still in Olkar's arms, "Especially during a top-class operation that Pure One is currently on task!?"

There was a chitter of guilt, Axtris' shoulders slumping as she looked away as Trikxas continued to chastise her, more than likely scolding her on her behavior. Vellak couldn't focus on her words and instead, eyed all the many eyes hungrily staring the Ghost down.

"Behind!"

Inkolas' cry of warning prompted Vellak, at first, not to heed his warning, and instead turn towards the Vandal. Seeing his four eyes looking past his shoulder, that is when Vellak noticed movement and he glanced back in time to see a Dreg leap 'over' him with arms outstretched. And snatched Trikxas out of the air.

The Ghost let out a cry of surprise and for help, her star shaped form easily disappearing in the smaller Eliksni's grasp. No sooner had they done this when Olkar dropped Axtris, letting out a shout of rage and worry as he reached out to grab the Dreg, only for his hands to grab air as the smaller Eliksni evaded his grasp.

That is when chaos broke loose.

Despite his status as a Vandal, Vellak is still larger than most and he determines that must mean he is seen as a bigger threat, considering that he found himself dog piled by the other Eliksni around him. Not like that was going to stop him.

Although his back ached from the extra weight, Vellak let out a roar as he forced himself onto his feet, lifting the Eliksni with him. Using his staff as leverage, he then started to smack any Eliskni that had tried to join the pile and, when he saw an opportunity, he shook, throwing the bodies off. As his vision cleared of any obscurities, Vellak saw that Variks was on his feet, shouting. However, his voice went unheard as the commotion drowned him out.

"Olkar!"

Trikxas' voice somehow made it through the noise and Vellak snapped his attention towards the entrance only for his heart to stop as the Dreg was practically there, ready to make his exit. Before he can shout out to his siblings of the smaller Eliksni's impeding escape, Vellak then saw swift movement weaving past the scuffling Eliksni and grabbing the Dreg and tossing him back into the room. This prompted a shriek from the Dreg and the latter tumbled back in. That is when Vellak saw him lose his grip and Trikxas' white form flew as high as she could, practically pressing herself against the ceiling.

Letting out a breath of relief, Vellak turned his head towards the entrance to see their savior. He paused when he saw that it was Inkolas.

"That is enough!"

The sound of a staff slamming onto the ground was enough for all eyes to turn towards Variks, and despite his age, Vellak can see the frustration and upset in his eyes, "Behave yourselves! Or would you rather I report to the Queen of how you are currently treating our 'guests'?!"

There was a brief silence at Variks' words which was quickly broken as a couple of cries permeated throughout the room. Vellak turned in time to see Olkar shove the last Eliksni off of him, glaring at them before skulking his way back to Vellak's side.

Glancing around for his sister, he spotted her on the floor, somehow having regained her prosthetic and was fumbling to put it back on, snapping at any Eliksni when she considers them to be too close. She finally made her way back to Vellak.

"I believe our little 'festivity' is done." He shifted his eyes back to Variks, the frustration now gone and replaced with disappointment, "Come, Eliksni of House Spirits, we can continue our chatter in my quarters, yes?" He then brushed past the three Eliksni, approaching the door, and then paused next to Inkolas, the latter of which had taken a step to the side to clear the path. Then, without saying a word, Variks nodded his head once and in return, Inkolas did the same before shifting his attention towards the room. The Vandal then started barking out orders, causing all the Eliksni in the room to scramble and picking up the mess.

Vellaks couldn't help but raise his brows at this; not just from how easily the other Eliksni listened to his commands but also bewildered as to why he had helped them get Trikxas back. He had obviously voiced his distaste for their House yet went out of his way to help them. Mumbling to himself at this, Vellak then shifted his attention towards his siblings, or more specifically, Olkar as he was trying to coax Trikxas back into his hands. At first, the Ghost was hesitant, reluctant, her white optics glancing at the scrambling Eliksni around them before finally, she flew down and settled into Olkar's waiting hands. Knowing fully well now that 'everyone' in their little group was safe, Vellak then turned and followed Variks out.

The four of them walked in silence, even when they reached Variks' quarters, where the elder Vandal opened his door and motioned for the three to step inside. As Vellak entered, he saw only a single desk and mattress, the former of which was piled with scrolls and parchment. Next to it was a console surrounded with boxes filled with more paper although these ones were folded and filed neatly inside.

"I apologize for their behavior." Variks said as he limped over his desk, took a seat, and motioned towards the bed for Vellak and his littermates to do the same, "You know how Eliksni are with Little Machines."

"Does not give them the right to take her away against her own volition." Vellak heard Olkar grumble as he took a seat on the bed, prompting him to do the same; he felt Axtris take a seat on his opposing side. Trikxas, more than likely seeing that they were the only Eliksni now present, finally squeezed her way out of Olkar's protective hands, the latter of which let out a sound of worry but nonetheless, made no movement to take her back as she glided over to Variks. The Elder Vandal paused, hesitant before holding out his palm. Vellak couldn't help but smile as Variks chittered happily as the Ghost settled in his hand.

"Is she…"

"She is not mine." Olkar confirmed as he huffed, "I am not her Guardian. I found her being attacked by the Dark Ones." Vellak noticed the way his eyes were focused on the Ghost; too focused, "I was able to snatch her and run to safety."

"Neither she is 'ours'." Vellak decided to add in, "She is here of her own will." He watched as Trikxas turned her optic towards him, "if she wants, she can leave anytime."

"Something of which, I am not going to do anytime soon." The Ghost declared as she glided out of Variks' hand and hovered back over to Olkar's shoulder; her rightful place in Vellak's eyes, "at least, not until I find my Guardian." Her lone optic shifted towards Olkar, yearning in her gaze, "although I wish more than anything that you were 'mine'."

A low rumble can be heard from Olkar, the same yearning settling into his four eyes as he held up his palm, a sign for Trikxas to settle in, "As I also wish that you were 'mine' as well."

Seeing them hum at each other, Vellak couldn't help but let out a sad sigh at the sight. Although more than anything he wants his brother to be happy, he also knows that realistically, the Ghost 'will' find her Guardian one day. Either be it today or years from now, there will be a time where she will have to leave. But yet, Vellak could not find the heart to break their bond. Not that he can; he can already tell that it was too late to break their relationship as it is.

"It seems you have a story to tell." Variks words caused Vellak to turn his attention back towards the House Judgement Eliksni, the latter of which leaned forward in his seat and added, "If you do not mind, I would like to hear it."

Xxxxx

Ever since he was a young Risen, Pluto had always been told that his senses have been sharp. Amongst all the members of his Clan, he was always the first to sense danger, to see the danger coming and even at times his gut feeling trusted when things are off. This was no different as Pluto felt an itch settle into the back of his senses as they entered the ballroom, unable to help but glance around warily as he and the others shuffled around the Awoken.

"You too?"

Startled, Pluto snapped his attention towards Angel, noticing how the human Hunter was shifting nervously on his feet, his eyes scanning the floors, "Right when we entered, I feel like we are being…."

We are being watched. Pluto wants to finish but his paranoia made him hold his tongue, unsure if there are unwanted ears tuning in on their words.

He could help but rub the back of his neck in frustration, closing his optics to heighten his senses. However, as he started to signal to Nix to send a scan out to the room, he heard a shot.

A shot of a sniper.

Snapping his optics back open, Pluto glanced into time to see a circle of Awoken scream as they scrambled back, tripping over each other just enough for him to see the familiar black and orange form of Ace hovering just above the crowd. Their core sinking at the sight of light beaming from their optic, Pluto followed the light only to let out a curse as he spotted Ianos, unmoving on the ballroom floor.

"Guard up!" He shouted as he held up a hand, feeling the familiar weight of his rifle falling into his grip as he then added, "One of us is down!"

"What?!" It was Carina, barely sobered up in time for her to glace around Pluto, "Oh fuck!" She then let out a huff, "Well, we finally get to see Ianos die for once."

"Not really the time, love." Aleeza pointed out as Pluto saw her approach his side, weapon in hand, "Although, this is way more exciting than a banquet, don't you think?"

"You mean more like an assassination attempt." It was Akiva's turn, the Titan letting out a snort, "We have to find them before they cause anymore trouble."

Scanning his surroundings once more, Pluto scowled as he spotted a familiar glint of a sniper disappear from one of the floors. He then spotted another rising up from the second. This one pointed at the Prince, the latter of which was shouting and guiding Awoken soldiers as they surrounded the Queen.

Despite his strong dislike for Uldren, Pluto found himself moving as he shouted, "Target is the Queen and the Prince! Akiva! Carina! Cover the Queen as soon as you can! Angel! Aleeza! Head towards the upper floors and clear them out! I will keep an eye on the Prince!"

"But! What about our armor!?"

"No time!" Pluto shouted as he finally closed the distance between himself and Uldren, ignoring the shouts of the guards as he shoved the Prince out of the way.

He heard a shot ring out and he stumbled as it hit him. Fortunately for him, Nix had his shields ready.

Hissing as his shields fell, his body aching from the decompressed shot, Pluto raised his weapon, a Scout Rifle, aimed, and fired.

There was a startled shout, filled with pain, before Pluto saw the barrel of the sniper disappear back into the floor, signaling to Pluto to brush past the other Awoken; he didn't stop to see if the Prince was okay.

Rushing up the stairs, Pluto turned the corner, only to see Angel and Aleeza in cover. And to barely duck as a shot rushed past his face.

"We found one." Aleeza chirped as he scrambled into cover with her, barely squeezing in to keep his body safe. Giving her a blank look, Pluto waited until he heard the click of a magazine being reloaded and as such, took an opportunity to rise out of his cover and fire. Much to his frustration, his target ducked and disappeared around the corner, prompting Pluto let out a frustrated curse and then duck back down into safety.

"You missed?" Pluto grumbled at Angel's comment, "But you never miss."

"Hold that thought." He warned as he signaled to Nix to get his knife, grabbing the handle the instant it materialized into view. And then, he signaled to Nix to turn off his optics. There was a mental sputter from his Ghost, a restrained protest, and then resignation before the world went dark. Shifting his head side to side to ensure that his vision was obscured, he then leaped out and dashed down the hall.

No sooner had he done this when his sensors heard the shift of a cloak, a click of a weapon being raised and a finger pressing against the trigger. Pluto took the chance to raise his hand and toss his knife.

Instantly, he heard a shout of pain and the sound of a weapon being fired however, Pluto felt the shot fly off its mark, hearing it fly above his head and ricochet into the ceiling. Taking the chance, Pluto then propelled himself forward, feeing himself slam into the frame of the assassin. Using his arm, he swung it onto the assassin's throat and throwing them onto the floor, hearing them let out a wheeze at the action. Pluto then took the opportunity to use his weight to restrain them, then reached out and grabbed the handle of his knife, satisfied that the blade was buried into assassins' shoulder.

"How many of you are there?" He demanded.

Waiting momentarily for an answer, Pluto couldn't help but be displeased when all he heard was the assassin's heavy breathing and felt their defiant stare. He sighed at this, "I do not have the patience for this right now."

Mercilessly, he twisted his knife.

There was a howl, writhing of the body beneath him before Pluto increased the pressure on his arm, ceasing their movement, "Are you the only assassin or are there others?"

"What do you think?"

Snapping in attention at the new voice, Pluto narrowly leaned back in time to avoid a gunshot, freeing his grip on both the assassin and his knife. Gathering void energy into his palm Pluto reared his hand back, fully intending to toss it at the second offender. He then heard a sniper shot ring out, however, this one from behind.

The second assassin let out a yelp before the sound of them falling onto the floor reached Pluto's sensors, prompting him to pause. He then reached footsteps rush forward; ones he recognizes as Angel's.

Simply giving his fellow Hunter a nod, Pluto then stood up and walked towards the first assassin, the latter of which scrambled back.

"Are there others?" Pluto demanded again, clenching his hand over the void grenade in his hands, "I am 'not' going to ask again."

There was a brief pause, then a shuddering breath, "It's just three of us. We were contracted to kill the Queen and the Prince."

Pluto narrowed his optics, "Why?"

"What do you think?" The Assassin spat, "Treaty? With the Guardians? After years of doing well on our own?" There was a scoff, "We have no need of aid from corpses –" The Assassin let out a scream as Pluto had reached down and grabbed the handle of his knife, the latter of which was still embedded in their shoulder and he gave it a good twist. Feeling his void grenade dissipate in his hand, Pluto found himself gritting his jaw in fury.

"Tell me, how did your fight with the House of Wolves went?" He snarled, pinning the writhing body beneath him, "If it weren't for us 'corpses', their 'Kell' would have united all Houses and then what? You and your precious Reef would have been able to handle it?"

"We would have no need of you." The Assassin hissed back, grabbing the arm in which Pluto had the knife, "The Reef would have easily handled the Wolves, and more. The Queen and the 'Advisor Prince' needed to be out of the way."

"And killing one of our own?" A restrained groan could be heard from the Awoken Assassin as Pluto twisted his knife once more; he saw his arm tremble with restrained rage.

"He placed himself in harm's way." The Assassin retorted, "If it not for him, my comrade could have easily killed the Queen."

"Him?" Pluto nodded his head towards the second Assassin, the latter of which was still but alive, considering the way his breathing was rapid and labored.

"No, the third of our party." The Assassin grunted, before glaring into Pluto's optics and then a smile formed onto their face, "Good luck finding him, he knows how to hide himself."

"Good." Pluto couldn't help but feel satisfied when the Assassin gave him a bewildered look, especially when he flashed them a smile of his own, "For your partner's sake, you better pray that someone else besides my 'friend' finds him." He leaned down and whispered, "He is quite 'ruthless' towards those who 'take him out'."

"Oh, good. You Guardians are not 'completely' unnecessary."

Recognizing the tone of voice, Pluto couldn't suppress a sigh as Uldren approached with two other footsteps that he doesn't recognize. Guards most likely. Tugging his knife free prompting a yelp, Pluto pushed himself onto his feet before reaching down and forcing the Awoken Assassin to stand.

"Nice of you to finally join us 'Prince' Uldren." Pluto forced out a smile at him, "Here's one alive. And 'possible' a second one." He then shoved the Assassin towards Uldren and his enforcers, "A 'gift', you can say."

There was simply a grunt from Uldren before the shuffling of steps told him that the Assassin was being handed over, "Take him away. 'I' will deal with him later."

Three pairs of footsteps told him that the guards followed his orders with the Assassin turned prisoner in tow, and Pluto heard Uldren turn to face him and then to the Assassin on the floor. He didn't have to have functioning optics to see the scowl on his features, "He's dead."

Humming at his words, Pluto reached out with his sensors and sure enough, the second Assassin's breaths have ceased, and he heard nothing that resembled life. He couldn't help but turn and raise a brow at the young Hunter, "Angel?"

There was a moment of silence, and then, an answer, "He tried to hurt you."

Pluto blinked at his words, taking them in before he understood; that is why the Assassin seemed to have suffered until the end, "I understand."

There was a scoff from Uldren at his words but, the Prince decided not to comment on it. Instead, Pluto heard him say, "The Queen is safe thanks to your friend's 'sacrifice'." Pluto couldn't help but scowl at his tone, "As such, we the Awoken, under the command of the Queen…" There was a rugged release of breath, "Owe you 'another' favor, if you can understand."

Reeling back at the Prince's words, Pluto waited, waiting to see if this was a cruel joke or a test given to them by either him or the Queen. Judging from the way he sensed his scowl and lack of words; Pluto came to a realization that it was all too real. He couldn't help but smile, feeling a bit smug.

"Oh, we understand." Pluto tried his suppress his joy, especially considering that it was 'Uldren' who had to come and utter those words, "We will definitely give a call when we need this favor, 'Your Highness'."

That earned him another scowl from the Awoken Prince, but Pluto not once felt bothered by it. Instead, he turned his attention towards Angel and he sensed Aleeza finally pull herself out from cover, "Let us spread out and find this last Assassin shall we? With the three of us, we should be able to cover more ground."

Xxxxx

"Can't believe we have to look around for this assassin 'without' your armor."

Angel couldn't help but smile at his Ghost's concerns as she continued, "Isn't a bit risky? To find an 'assassin' without protection? I mean, I know this assassin isn't a Guardian but a non-Guardian still can 'permanently' kill one, if you what I mean?"

"I understand your worry, Hope." Angel said as he readied his hand-cannon in his grip, turned a corner, and nodded in satisfaction when he saw the hall was clear, "but you know as well as I do that, we did not have the time to 'gear up'."

He heard his Ghost let out a huff, "Doesn't mean I can't worry you know?"

Laughing at her words, Angel then said, "Speaking of, have the others seen Ianos yet? He wasn't at the ballroom last I checked."

Hope shook her core, "No, not yet. Although, Pluto did say he tends to be 'disoriented' when he resurrects." She shifted her shell up and down, "Who knows, maybe Ace took him away so he can recover privately."

Humming and nodding in agreement to his Ghost's words, Angel pondered upon it as he turned a corner.

And felt an impact slamming into his jaw.

Crashing to the floor, Angel tasted blood as he groaned, turning onto his side and shaking his head to clear the worst of his blurring vision.

"Angel!"

There was another shout from Hope and the sounds of her straining, as if struggling to move. That is when he heard a chuckle.

"Looking for me?"

Heart going still in his chest, Angel glanced up as he stared into glowing eyes, the Awoken Assassin flashing him a smile. And in his raised hand, is Hope, struggling in his tight grip.

Trailing his eyes over Hope's struggling form, Angel turned his eyes back onto the Assassin, unable to find anything else to say except, "You're the final one."

No sooner had he spoke when the smile upon the Assassin's face faded, his eyes squinting; Angel couldn't help but feel like he was judging him. He was proven correct when the Awoken laughed.

"You know, I expected more from a Guardian, a supposed 'Solder of the Light'." The Assassin snickered; Angel's eyes snapped towards Hope when she let out a squeak; he noticed how the Awoken's grip had went tight, "To be taken down so easily, what a joke."

Angel then heard a click, prompting him to glance over to the Assassin's other hand only to spot the familiar shape of a side arm. At first, he thought his intent was to kill 'him', only for his eyes to go wide when he, instead, watched him aim it at the Ghost in his hands. Hope immediately ceased her movements.

"All I have to do is to shoot this machine, correct?" Angel went stock still as the Awoken smiled, "and once it is gone, I can kill you and you stay dead?"

Parting his lips to answer, Angel found no words forming on his tongue and instead, gaped at the Awoken, the latter of which simply tilted his head, amused.

"Well, shall we figure that out then?"

Seeing the Assassin starting to press the trigger, Angel let out a cry as he attempted to scramble to his feet, reaching out a hand towards his Ghost, the latter of which now desperately strained in her captor's hand.

That is when a flash of blue light blinded him.

Stumbling back, Angel couldn't help but raise a hand and close his eyes, a vain attempt as he could still see the light through the lids of his eyes.

"Angel!"

Recognizing the voice of Hope, Angel blinked rapidly several times the instant the light faded, letting the stars fade from his vision before lowering his hand and locking onto the lone optic of his Ghost. Without a word, he reached out, wrapped his fingers around Hope's and clutched her close to his chest.

"You're alright." He whispered, letting out a breath of relief as he felt his Ghost snuggle closer into his arms. Angel then lifted his eyes to his surrounding only to spots sparks of what he recognizes as arc energy flicker around him. Puzzled, Angel followed the trail only to pause, and finding himself going taut.

In front of him stood Ianos, dressed in his Warlock gear as he held the Awoken Assassin by the throat, lifting him off the floor. Arc light was spilling off his body, scorching the walls, the floor, and the ceiling, clashing wildly as if trying to find anything within its vicinity to burn.

"You killed me."

Angel couldn't help but reeled back at Ianos' words, filled with so much rage and hate. Then, he saw the arc light surge back towards the Warlock and surge through his arm. And into the Awoken Assassin.

The Assassin screamed as the arc light engulfed his form, his body convulsing and kicking as his body went alight. Then, Ianos simply threw him forward, a sound of disgust coming off the Warlock as the Assassin's body dissipated, disappearing within a handful of sparks before he even could hit the floor.

That is when Angel saw the tension in Ianos' shoulders leave, the sparks of arc energy fading away almost immediately.

"I-Ianos?" Angel stuttered out, half expecting the Warlock to turn and thrust a handful of light into his body.

Instead, the Awoken jumped, twirled around and paused as he locked eyes (at least, Angel believes so) with him and then glanced around, as if confused on where he was. The Hunter could easily sense the scowl upon his face, even behind his helmet, but nonetheless Ianos asked, "How are the others?"

"They 'were' searching for the last Assassin," Angel responded warily, glancing over to where his body would have been, if it had still been whole. And present. He couldn't help but clutch Hope protectively in his hands.

Ianos followed his gaze, Angel watching him tilt his head curiously as if he could still see the body itself. He then turned his attention back towards him, "Since I found him, there is no longer a need to keep searching." Ianos held out a hand where Ace's familiar orange and black form took shape, "Let us send the others a message to say that the task is complete."

"Y-Yeah." Angel found himself saying as he pushed himself onto his feet, hesitantly letting Hope from his grasp as Ace sent out a frequency. He then saw Ianos pause, hearing him let out a breath of amusement and bewilderment.

Angel blinked, "What?"

"I received a message. From the Queen." Angel reeled at Ianos' words, "She is grateful of me for saving her life." Ianos shifted his attention away from his Ghost and locked his gaze with Angel's, "and she is ready to finalize the treaty."

I don't know, is it just me or does the ending feel...rushed?