Disclaimer: I don't own The Loud House, the brand, as well as all of its characters and settings belong to Chris Savino and Nickelodeon, all rights reserved.
Chapter 82: WRATH.
- We… really failed huh? - Lincoln said with an ironic grin, the life in his eyes was fading away.
- Yeah… we're beyond "fixing" - Lola replied with a resigned smile, looking deep into her brother's eyes, then back to the void.
The two stood in their place, placing their hands on the edge of the balcony, taking a good view of the night town landscape below them and the shadows of cars passing through the street, which were fairly small from their perspective.
The fall wouldn't be that long…
- Lincoln, if I… did that right now… would you follow me? - Lola asked to the air, as her eyes remained fixated on the firm ground far below her reach.
- Without a second thought - Lincoln responded honestly, his eyes also fixated on the ground.
- …then, shall we do it together? - Lola said decisively, raising her arm to hold hands with him.
- …Sure - Lincoln complied.
He was about to hold her hand, accepting their demise together, but then he remembered that his left hand had an object that he decided to bring with him for… no real reason that mattered at the moment.
He placed his attention on the object.
- …You know, if people were to see our… remains on the ground, I would like to let them know our story - Lincoln mentioned quietly as he focused his sight on the notebook.
- Well… you can take the notebook with you, I'll take this drawing, although, the blood might make them unreadable - Lola pointed out gloomily, focusing her eyes back on the deranged man by her side.
- Yeah… you're right , but I really don't like loose endings - Lincoln redirected his sight to the ruined woman by his side - Can we… can we give it a proper ending? -
- The quest for the diamonds is over, Lincoln, we lost, she's dead, and won't come back - Lola raised an eyebrow in disbelief.
- Yeah, but, Triton isn't - Lincoln looked down in defeat - Look, you don't have to write anything, just let me give him a proper ending, then we do it, ok? - He retired himself from the tantalizing view of the streets, as he backed off from the edge of his balcony, focusing his eyes on the story.
Lola didn't know what to answer, her desire to just drop herself off was growing.
But she was at the very least mildly curious at how Lincoln would end himself in the story.
She didn't fight it further, instead, she retired herself from the balcony and made way back to their room, the mess that she had created made the place look like if a tornado had just passed, broken stuff everywhere, a soaking bed, discarded clothing, a rancid, putrid smell, coming from her nether regions and the many discarded tampons and towels around her side of the bed.
What a great setting for the end.
She at least left the oh so important drawing where she originally took it from and decided to lie on her side of the bed.
Then came Lincoln, sitting on his own side, notebook in hand and a pen.
He began writing, his expression unchanging, she could detect a fake smile that didn't register any feelings at all, he was also dead inside, and yet…
He wasn't slowing down.
Into the story:
"Try as he might, the enlightened duke struggled to bring any signs of life back into the statue of his loved one, he hired the best of druids and witches in the region, all sorts of spells, all sort of myths.
From the ones foretelling the awakening of ancient stone soldiers were they to be venerated with material objects to the ones implying resuscitation through a kiss on the lips, the knight tried every single method that he could gather from ancient intel.
But nothing worked, despair had filled his heart, as he lied in his royal bed, to the side of the stony princess that wouldn't answer back to his prayers and his love.
The meaning of their quest had reached a premature end, his weakness struck at a key moment in their lives, befitting his worthlessness.
He had only one method left to attempt.
A myth had foretold of a deadly volcano at the edge of planet Mobus that held a mystic power, but could only be accessed by those willing to sacrifice it all, as it remained permanently active, with hot streaks of lava and smoke every minute, signaling the sure end of anyone who where to approach.
The place had been deemed so dangerous, in fact, that no matter his influence and power, no direct subservient was daring enough to approach the place, meaning that he had a mission to clear only by himself and the immotile companion that would be hanging on his back.
Knowing of the risks, it was now or never, he ordered a fleet to, at the very least, approach him to the deadly location, but once again, as if marked by destiny.
He was on his own"
Back in the real world.
Lola glanced over the text, a bunch of arranged words attempting to build a cohesive narrative, but nothing about it caused a reaction on her, she only saw weakly how that being of hatred passed her the pen, as if expecting her to add to the story.
She rolled her eyes and snatched it anyways.
Into the story:
"After all, a statue's opinion is irrelevant to his quest"
Back in the real world.
Lincoln was… surprisingly relieved, that this girl at least had enough energy to write.
The statue was dead, but at least, it seems that she was still listening.
He accepted the pen back from her, who just threw it back into his face, as he continued his tale.
Into the story:
"After a few days, running through several crusades and merchants on the way, his crew was able to transport him close enough to the place were the massive volcano was located, a monument to put the Olympus Mons to shame, which seemed to be not only active, but causing rumbles and shaking in the earth below, even from the conservative distance that he was located at.
A quick spit from its open mouth and a fireball of molten lava came at their way upon arrival, which the ex-captain and the statue managed to narrowly avoid.
But a few people from his crew were not as lucky, as the fireball successfully crashed on the carriage that transported them, lighting the vehicle on fire.
And thus, the volcano's rage took more victims, he was getting tired of this cycle.
After a few hours of walking, avoiding earthquakes and blocking random lava monsters, the "cowboy" and the "princess" were now standing on the bottom of the fiery structure, ready to climb it to reach his desired spot: The spiritual hot springs.
A few hours into the lengthy process, the duke was starting to feel his body falling on him, the road through this volcano was extremely harsh, pushing his patience to a test, as an endless amount of fiery creatures continued assaulting him, demons that acted voracious and relentless, creating an all consuming flame that ravaged the place, tearing through his defenses that he had worked so badly to perfect.
The flames were not just rash and merciless, they were also starting to fool the perception of the knight, creating sounds not too dissimilar from laughter and screams, while the creatures producing them even attempted to take the shape of people from his past, a few faces that he could recognize all too well: Agent Cloud McStrife, King Lynnester, The Evil Witch Priscella, Ribbon and Lisabot.
The creatures taunted him, making him lose focus for a moment, his desire to attack them only grew stronger, but those were just faces, meant to slow him down, most likely to weaken his shield and allow the rivers of lava to incinerate him, and the statue that he carried.
He looked at his companion instead, her kind face forever sealed in stone reminded him of something very important"
Back in the real world.
- …What is it? - Her tone was quiet and neutral, but for the first time in weeks, Lola showed… intrigue, towards the story, looking with interest at the last line written by her brother.
- Bring us to the hot springs and I'll tell you - Lincoln tried to bring energy to his voice, passing the pen to his sister, who looked at it for a solid minute, before accepting the offer.
Into the Story:
"That "kind" smile of the statue was only but a remainder of a distant past"
Back in the real world.
Done with her "part" Lola threw the pen back angrily at her disappointed brother and looked away.
Lincoln simply accepted the gesture and resumed his journey, writing intently, despite the complete retaliation from the broken girl besides him.
Into the Story:
"It was a painful reminder indeed, of his horrific failure in the past, and also of his current failure at bringing her back, for no matter what he did, there seemed to be no hope.
Except for that one secluded place, which he felt was getting closer by the second, if he were to perish, consumed by the flames, then the least he could do would be to try to purge himself and leave with dignity.
And so, only a few minutes of harsh climbing under intense temperature and the distracting creatures of fire, he was able to preserve his defenses long enough to be in front of the place long sought for.
He gazed at the scenery, despite the hellish red landscape above and to the sides, the water emanating from this ample hot spring radiated a small frame of blue, the water was decently crystalline as well, which gave a dreamy reflection of blue light to the red surrounding it, despite being a part of the volcano, it seemed to belong somewhere else.
In this giant turmoil of fiery madness, a small clearing of soothing light rested, the tiny lake of calm in a giant mountain of rage.
He quickly jumped into the shallow part of it, ensuring enough water to fill the statue, but never enough to cover her nostrils.
Then, he meditated"
Back in the real world.
Lola was now looking confused at the man to her side, right after reading his passage, she was surprised at finding him in that disgusting pose of "yoga" that he forced upon her so many times, this was making her angry.
This massive hypocrite thought that he had any rights to pretend to be serene after having caused the huge mess that fucked them both.
She wasn't going to fall for that again.
She took the pen from his hand, a gestured that received no retaliation from his part, and wrote her little "part", hopefully to ensure this clown wouldn't try anything else.
Into the Story:
"But the statue was unaffected by the "sacred" hot springs, this would fix nothing"
Back in the real world.
- Quit it, idiot, I won't do that shit again! - Lola screamed loudly as she threw both the notebook and the pen to his face.
This action, however, did not disturb the meditation of her brother, which only made her angrier.
- Hey, didn't you hear me? I ain't doing that you disgusting pig! - Lola approached his ear to scream loudly at it, the sooner he's done with this bullshit, the faster she can finally end it all.
- I'm not asking you to, Lola - Was the only answer to come back from him, as he slowly opened his eyes, picking the book from his lap and resuming his writing.
Lola was now looking weirdly at him, unable to figure out his thoughts.
His writing was still passionate, undeterred by her insults and her violence, what was happening?
Into the Story:
"And yet, Triton was heavily aware of that, these hot springs were probably never strong enough to heal a soul lost to the void, for there is nothing that can heal a void created from despair.
The soul of his dear princess wasn't just concealed in a rocky surface, but perhaps within her very interior, and any remnants of her consciousness were probably scattered and in pieces, in a way that no magic could bring her back, if she herself didn't want to.
So that's why, the hot springs weren't meant to help her, but rather, himself, the healing water acted as a barrier for the fiery creatures of doom harassing him to no end, he was still weak, and he was still destined to lose it all.
But at least, he had the courage now to face the trial ahead.
After his visit to the hot springs, the knight felt a renewed strength, which allowed him to carry himself, as well as his companion, to the place were only fate could determine his true punishment.
They were now at the top of the active volcano, through the edges of the structure, a strong aura of heat emanated from the lava pool down below, which was bubbling with sheer force from the planet's seismic activity, a single movement in false, or play by destiny, and a giant eruption could send the lethal liquid to their faces, and not even stone would be resistant enough to not succumb to the heat.
They were now at the most dangerous place in the planet, and the cowboy knew what to do.
As the legend used to say: "A sacrifice to the fiery gates of hell can grant you a wish powerful enough to retrieve a lost essence: The devil accepts a Soul for a Soul"
Back in the real world:
- Well, I guess this is the were Triton says farewell - Lincoln commented bashfully, rubbing the back of his neck as he observed with soothing relief at his sister focused on his part.
She lowered the book with an unamused look, but a raised eyebrow, as she turned to look at him.
- So, can we go now? - She replied impatiently.
- Yeah sure, but, can I have a "last wish thingy"? - Lincoln asked back with a toothy smile and joining his palms in a playful "begging" manner, confusing his sister further.
- Uh, sure whatever - Lola replied disinterestedly, it's his last will, why not?
- … Can I Kiss you? - Lincoln's eyes were now sparkly, his grin made no sense, the amount of layers of irony were lost to his sister.
- Yeah, why not - Lola replied without shame, might as well let each other go with a remainder of their sins, trash doesn't deserve to have dignity.
After that, the blonde simply closed her eyes and stayed still, excepting her lips to meet his in one last, abhorrent display of depravity.
But no kiss came to her foul mouth.
Instead…
She felt his lips in her forehead, a simple peck of love, but not the kind of love that she was used to seeing In him, the one that made her nauseous just thinking about it, the kind that she infected on him and lead them astray in a life of misery, turning them both into monsters.
This wasn't a romantic kiss, this was a type of kiss that… once in her life, she dreaded to receive from him, a kiss that implied a distance that they used to have, and that she had wished to never cross in her life again.
Uninterested, but selfless; boring, but genuine; dull, but kind.
That was a brotherly kiss.
But it couldn't be… She opened her eyes, focusing in his, locking for answers.
She found none, but the spark in his eyes seemed… sincere.
- Thank you Lols, I know you don't love me anymore like that, but I still want you to remember, even if I can't have you that way, that I'll always be your big brother, and will be watching over you, wherever you go - Lincoln said kindly, looking at his dear sister with loving eyes - I think I'll go first, could you please finish that part? -
Lola was still speechless, but seeing her brother move from his spot, getting himself ready to leave the bed to go to that balcony…
She felt left out.
He was going to lock the door to the balcony wasn't he?
- Wait! - She shouted, Lincoln looked back.
- What? - He asked with a raised eyebrow.
- We… said we would do that together - She complained with a frown.
- Fine, I'll wait for you to write it - He said with a warm smile, sitting back in his original position as his sister grabbed the pen, her hands were shaking a little, but there seemed to be something that wasn't there before.
Emotion.
Into the story:
"Triton gave his first step into the depths of the volcano, his eyes were burning from the heat emanating from the radiant red lava, one more step into the void and his fate would be sealed.
He then looked back at the statue, standing there, useless, expressionless, with no way to fix it.
But he still went ahead and grabbed it, the sins of the two were overwhelming and more than one soul would be required to properly atone for their sins, his efforts to revive his companion in vain, their only way out lied in the blazing hot lava below
All that was needed was to jump.
However, the statue suddenly became too heavy, halting the progress of the duke; a body of stone has no will, but its composition was changing.
He looked further and paid attention to the statue"
Back in the real world.
- So, you don't want to finish the story? - Lincoln quirked his eyebrows, the fact that his sister had not thrown them into the lava yet was nothing short of a miracle.
- …why did you do that? - Lola refused eye contact.
- What? - Lincoln failed to catch that.
- …the kiss, in my forehead -
- What about it, I love you sis - Lincoln replied casually.
- …Why don't you want to live? - Lola asked another question, concealing her voice.
- Because you don't want to either - Lincoln answered nonchalantly.
- But… it's different, before me, you were doing fine on your own, alcohol aside, then I came… and… ruined everything for you… again - Lola continued looking down, defeated.
- … That's not exactly true - Now Lincoln was looking down, to Lola's surprise - I was drinking a lot while keeping myself busy with Videogames and the likes, because it was the only thing distracting me long enough to avoid those… awful thoughts from messing with my head, I could have very well done really bad things before you came back -
- I've hurt you more than any of them combined, I'm sorry, but that will never make sense to me - Lola added with spite.
- … perhaps it's true, but, don't hate you, never will - Lincoln replied with a smile - I don't know why, but seeing you so… destroyed… reminded me of something that I forgot about myself, even after all of those exercises of "meditation" -
- That is? - Lola was looking curiously at him again.
By then, Lincoln was already writing in the notebook again, an expression of… serenity?
Into the story:
" And seeing this simple change in the statue alarmed him of something far more powerful than any spell he might have tried before.
Change, indeed, change, the power to become a better version of yourself, not just from your achievements or your success.
To become a better version of himself, against all odds, even in a place as treacherous as an active volcano, blowing up for the lightest of reasons, a permanent remainder of the corruption of the planet, and his own mind.
He decided to exercise the opposite of what lead him through this void of his own, and so, he sat on the edge of the volcano, to the side of the statue that he brought, and just… waited, whatever faith had to do to him, he would take it.
And then, awarded by the patience that he showed, the volcano showed signs of an incoming eruption, ready to sink him and his partner forever.
Back in the real world.
- …ok, I… don't want any secrets if we are to do… that - Lola said in a raspy, but intense voice, looking back at her brother with a frown.
- hehe, me neither, how about we give this a proper ending… 6 out of 7 sounds good enough for me - Lincoln replied with ease, his discomfort almost entirely gone.
- … So that's why you chose a volcano - Lola had an epiphany, if this was a plan of his all along or not, that didn't really matter anymore.
She had to admit… she was having a little fun with this.
Into the story:
"…only for the lava to split in half, as a building ascended to the top of the volcano, an ancient structure with pillars of red quartz, a set of stairs that reached the edge of the volcano where he found himself sitting, and to the farthest reach of the structure was placed the giant statue of an elephant-like creature with spiky horns to the side, as well as a wall with an all too familiar inscription:
"Confess, control, overcome. Succeed and the stone of legend shall be yours, otherwise, the guardian of this sacred shrine will awaken"
From the depths of hell, the temple of Wrath had risen, the royal warrior walked forward with the statue on his back, and approached the inscription to reveal the ancient microphone.
He used his translator:
"A poison to the heart that corrupts your entire existence, it lingers in your mind and makes you get lost, a force that makes you want to hurt and doesn't care about the consequences, you only seek revenge and you won't care about losing your loved ones in the process; have you allowed the wrath within to take a hold of your heart and mind alike?"
Triton stood in the front, ready to answer"
Back in the real world.
- …well? - Lola looked questioningly at her brother, as he processed the information.
His smile was gone, but not the gleam in his green eyes, he took a hold of the pen with determination and proceeded to input his answer.
Into the story:
"- I, Lord Triton, confess to letting my pain, my regret and my fear cloud my mind with irrational anger and hatred towards those who hurt me in the past, allowing the pouring wrath to corrupt my perception of the world and making me get lost, transforming me into a heartless monster ready to take advantage of the good in people and to objectify and mistreat my precious companion by my side, I misplaced my priorities with the overwhelming, irrational desire to practice revenge, instead of focusing of healing the most important kind of hatred, towards myself -"
Back in the real world.
- you… too? - To say that Lola was shocked, no, flabbergasted, would be an understatement.
This overconfident asshole that she hated so much… also hated himself?
Then, what was the point of hiding it?
How was it fair for her to hate him?
…How was it possible? She couldn't "hate" anymore… right?
- Yeah, getting that off my chest felt… necessary - Lincoln shrugged, a faint smile never leaving his face.
Lola was still at a loss of what to say, but a certain drive prompted her to focus on the narrative, she grabbed the pen and continued the tale, Lincoln was now watching intently, as the energy of her writing increased.
Into the story:
"The confession was sufficient, as the first symbol in the structure turned green, indicating the passing of the first test.
Following that challenge, the same creatures that had been looming in plain mockery and deceit, harassing the knight on his way to the top of the mountain appeared again, climbing over the mighty pillars of the temple and shooting balls of blazing hot fire at the target, which quickly morphed into the same faces of rejection that had turned him into the broken man that he was, the likes of Priscella, McStrife, Tricksy, Ribbon, Lisabot, Sir Ferdinand and King Lynnester.
The test had begun.
Back in the real world.
- Go ahead, Lincoln, kill them, you've got a shit ton of powers now don't you? - Lola threw the notebook sarcastically at her brother, crossing her arms and keeping a watch on him.
Lincoln recognized that expression, it was unequivocal, she was angry, she was bitter.
But she meant what she wrote, this was a test by her, something he can ace or fail, and he knew the consequences of the later.
He wrote a single sentence.
Into the story:
"And the duke did not move a finger, he stood there, were he to receive the blast to his face, then be it, he was tired of this never-ending cycle… of hatred"
Back in the real world.
- h-how can I believe you? - Lola was now grasping the notebook strongly enough to create a wrinkle in the page that she was reading, gritting her teeth while glaring at the story, then at him.
- You don't need to, to be fair, I can barely believe it myself, I don't know if I'll ever be able to forgive… all of them, but that part at the end is at least true, Lola - Lincoln looked seriously at her, averting his initial smile - …This "revenge" crap is getting old -
It was true, coming from his own, painful, realization, Lincoln looked back, at everything that had happened since this love madness began, the rejection of friends and family alike, the constant stares of discomfort and anger by all the bystanders that had to look at him, or his then girlfriend, back in that town, the violence that he and his partner suffered, from the constant vandalism of angry followers of a man that he destroyed in the past, to the strength of the fists of the people that he once trusted the most, from his own family no less.
He realized that it wasn't just their fault; hatred was not a thing that is just born out of nowhere, hatred has a reason to exist, from the very fear of seeing a family be corrupted and destroyed, to a somewhat effective defensive mechanism to avoid the pain.
And then, when someone decides to respond to hatred with more hatred, what are the consequences? A never ending cycle? He hated them because they hated him, he became distant, he stoped caring about their feelings and focus on himself, they were the bad guys, nevermind the fact that he also treated them badly, because he was so afraid at them hurting him more, without even realizing…
He was just hurting himself, as well as the person he loved most, which, in a poetically cruel twist of events, ended with nothing but pure contempt over him, was it still worth it, then, to hate her back?
It wasn't an easy feat, especially when nothing else would fill the void in his heart, but such a self-defeating language of despair was doing nothing to heal the pain, either, perhaps… it was time to change.
Lola kept looking at him, a part of her was still in disbelief, but a faint trace of light being reflected in her eyes became a prominent feature, at least for one moment for Lincoln to appreciate it.
She simply took the pen and continued writing the next sentence.
Into the story:
"Though reckless and stupid, the ultimate resolve that the ex-knight displayed by his inaction created an interesting effect on the creatures, for each and every single fireball launched at him ultimately failed, the creatures then began smelling the area, unable to identify the cowboy standing right below them.
Then, after a few minutes, the creatures ceased their search and ran away.
It is said that some creatures can detect fear… perhaps these ones could do the same with anger, otherwise, they were blind and defenseless, but regardless of the reason, the second symbol lit up, leaving only the third and final challenge ahead"
Back in the real world.
- …don't wake the golem again, please - Lola looked at her brother once again, but this time around, there was genuine anticipation, which could even be mistook for hope.
Lincoln did not fail to catch that, perhaps there was something that he could do after all?
- I'll try - He replied simply, before carefully taking the pen away from her expectant hands and focusing his attention back on the book.
But then, something stuck him in place, rendering him unable to write…
…How could he make a promise for a future that he didn't have anymore?
- What's wrong? - Lola approached him, unsure of what to do.
- I want to promise things, but I'm not sure if I'll get to keep them, kind of silly I know haha - Lincoln looked back at his sister, rubbing the back of his neck.
And that's when Lola noticed, how his eyes got wetter, and wetter, until actual droplets fell off his sockets.
And something long dormant awoke in her.
- H-hey, write what you fell is right, we'll see about the "fulfilling" part later, 'kay? - Lola mustered a smile as she placed her hand on his shoulder in support, which earned her a genuine smile from the broken man.
She was beyond confused.
- Thanks, I guess I can try - Lincoln replied full-heartedly, looking back into the notebook and writing with conviction.
Into the story:
" - I, Lord Triton, hereby promise, upon the judgement of the guardian that keeps this temple safe, that I will try my hardest to overcome the overpowering wrath that resides in my heart, including the recurrent vengeful and violent thoughts that freely roam my mind and cloud my path astray, turning me into my biggest enemy, as well as that of Princess DeLola, by doing such, I promise to atone for my sin, trying my hardest to heal the bonds I broke with the people of my past and to try and fight for them to find forgiveness in their hearts as well -"
Back in the real world.
Lola re-read the passage, surgically analyzing it like an independence treaty, an inexorable contract by which to abide for life.
For in more ways than one, it was.
- Well, that was fun haha - Lincoln said cordially, spurting, for the first time in many years, a fulfilling expression of peace, peace for his heart.
At least his mind was finally clear.
Lola said nothing, her eyes focused on the page, her face was serious.
- Ok Lols, I think I'm good, we can go now - Lincoln offered a hand to his sister, their final fate awaited.
- …No - Was the only response that he got, Lola's hands were now trembling while holding the manuscript.
- Sorry? - Lincoln was confused.
- I said, no - Lola's expression was undefinable, the faint light of the room's lamp was putting a shadow in her eyes.
- no what? - Lincoln continued watching curiously.
- NO! - Lola shouted wildly finally turning her teary eyes at him, showing a sincere, painful expression - I DON'T WANT TO DO THAT ANYMORE! - She continued staring intensely at him.
Then, Lincoln was wide eyed, he just couldn't believe what had just happened.
Lola threw herself over his knelling figure, enveloping his neck with her arms, as she proceeded to cry with all of her strength in his chest.
Then, as if by pure instinct, his mind was turned off, but his arms automatically surrounded her fragile back as well.
Ten minutes passed, and Lola was still clinging to him, crying uncontrollably, while Lincoln could only return the hug, a warm smile on his mangled face.
Then, a few moments later, she finally broke the embrace, avoiding eye contact, as she simply retreated back into her position and picked the notebook and the pen.
She resumed her writing, with actual energy behind.
Into the story:
"With the power and determination of his last confession, the temple responded in kind, letting the final seal turn green, signaling the completion of the test of wrath, which led to the collapse of the ancient wall, granting the duke access to the chamber.
As he progressed through the rocky path ahead, he could notice the patterns of the walls, which illustrated countless wars, with little soldiers being lead to their demise by demons in power, as well as countless of innocent victims burned to ashes, quite the graphic description when compared to the other temples.
But it was all irrelevant, for soon after, the knight and the accompanying statue were now in front of the shrine, which was painted with a radiant color of passionate red, coming from the diamond at the very center of it, standing mightily in its podium and waiting for the knight to pick it up.
More importantly, however, was the fact that the fifth diamond, which resided inactive in the knights equipment, suddenly escaped it's confinement to float and communicate with the Diamond of Wrath.
And then, out of nowhere, the first half of said diamond returned to its mysterious violet gleam, which created enough refraction in the room to lit the statue that accompanied the ex-cowboy on fire.
[-Wait, Lola!? -]
[-Let me finish, ok?-]
The fire reacted to the core of the statue, creating a crack on the structure, which, after a few moments, ultimately exploded in a blinding white light.
And from said light, emerged a new darkness, her classic, pink, pointy hat, turned to black, her once clean, sparkly dress transformed into a dark, ominous robe with a black veil, and her princess royal makeup dissolved into an unorganized, almost evil pattern.
DeLola, the witch, was back"
Back in the real world.
- Ok, I'm kind of lost - Lincoln admitted shamefully after reading her part.
- Ask away - Lola replied kindly.
- Why did the diamond of Lust became active? - Lincoln looked inquisitively at her.
- I… wasn't expecting you to lose your chance of kissing me in the mouth, I think that gave it away - Lola recalled nervously.
- Ok… but why only half of it? -
- Because I feel nauseous of myself… when you were over me, choking me… I don't know why, but I wanted you to continue, because it felt good - Lola admitted shamefully.
- … I'll not comment on that - Lincoln blushed slightly - But then, if Princess DeLola is back… does that mean? -
- It just means that I'm interested in writing the story, don't get your hopes up, and stop calling her a princess will ya? - Lola said seriously, but Lincoln couldn't help but to detect a smirk.
That was enough for him to sigh in relief, right now, he did not feel like jumping off a cliff either.
- In that case, I guess it's time for my comeback, now that you can't reject this quest, my princess~
- Lincoln saw the opportunity to tease her again, and he would not waste it.
But also, he knew that this test wasn't just for him.
Into the story:
"Seeing the materialized, human form of his beautiful companion, new appearance disregarded, erased any and all remaining grief away, the noble took his attention away from the diamond and rushed in to tackle her with a crushing bear hug, all while spraying her with pure, raw liquid emotion.
- My… dear sorceress, I'm so glad that you're back! - Triton shouted, infinite gratitude in his whole being for the chance that was given to him, by the diamond's power as well as DeLola's will.
And after the fulfilling reunion, the pair, now as a team, went to retrieve the diamond.
… Only to find it encased in a solid glass box, and engraving that they hadn't seen since their first big adventure was detailed on the podium.
""The ambition of a wish cannot be shared by two individuals, to prove us wrong, repeat the ritual done by your partner at the entrance of this sacred shrine, shall you succeed, the stone of legend will be yours, otherwise, the path to your deepest desires will be sealed forever"
The ex-princess needed to clear her own demons away"
Back in the real world.
- Heh, why did I think you would try to pull something like this? - Lola looked rather amusedly at the part written by her brother, who was looking at her with a certain… nostalgia.
- I just want to know something Lincoln - Lola looked at him with brooding anxiety - …Why can't you hate me? -
- I already told you, this hatred thing was getting old - Lincoln answered seriously.
- I mean before, dumbass, after everything I did… back then, and everything I'm still doing now… I just don't get it, I'm fucking ugly, fat and stink like hell, I acted like a grade-A, abusive bitch, I physically assaulted you, I'm a coward who wanted to take you with me to the depths of hell, I'm completely worthless right now, and yet… you never left me alone, why is that? -
- … - Lincoln thought about it for a moment, and then he just went back to his serene smile - Lola, don't you remember what I told you back at Dairyland?
A memory, indeed, came to her.
"Lola, I love the whole of you, for who you are, even if you lost some of those traits in the future, I would still love you, my princess"
But she still refused to believe it, she kept looking at him with a lost expression.
- I'm repulsive, Lincoln, I'm not a princess, I was the actual witch of the story, I even came here to lie to your face, I was only interested in "fixing" you to go back to our family… so that I could end myself later… - The regretful girl then shook her head with closed eyes and a deep frown - I even lied about hating you, but you're still here! -
And Lincoln's eyes widened, unable to say anything back, as Lola quietly opened her eyes, turned her attention back at the notebook and began writing.
Into the story:
" - I, DeLola the witch, confess on allowing the overpowering feeling of hatred to take a hold of my heart and mind alike, rendering me unable to escape my petrification, as I could only direct it and concentrate it on two targets, my loyal ex-knight, Triton, as well as myself -
- I confess, be as it may, that the only reason for my growing hatred to Triton and my refusal to escape my stony prison, was because I couldn't find containment to my severe desire to submit to the dark arts as an evil witch, which seek relief through self-harm and creates the kind of misery that loves company. As a result, I acknowledge my fault at bringing him down with me in the process -
- And finally, I promise in front of this sacred podium to find the help that I need, to avoid the easy means of escapism in death, and to respond in kind to the duke's affection, despite the fact that I'm not entirely sure if I deserve it -"
Back in the real world.
- Lola… - Lincoln was at a loss of words, there was too much information to digest, as his sister looked away, potentially trying to hide her shame.
- I… never truly hated you, Lincoln, I was just angry at you, but I was not allowing myself to see it that way, because finding someone else to hate was the only way I had to not… end myself, right there - Lola admitted with a newly formed expression of tremendous guilt, her crystalline eyes and flushed face turning back to stare at his.
- We… were never that different then - Lincoln also mustered a frown of regret.
- Well, not entirely, the people that you hate… some of them did hurt you a lot, so you felt at least a little bit justified, didn't you? - Lola pointed out with newfound irony.
- …well, I did hurt you Lols… but i guess you're right on the other front - Lincoln got her point.
It didn't sting any less…
- I'm sorry Lincoln, I really am, I treated you like absolute dirt all these days, and I know that you always tried to help me, and… - Lola couldn't even finish her apology, as she soon felt the warm embrace of her brother, who rested his head on her shoulder.
- You know? You were always justified in hating me, I… what I did to Angus and Leni was not right, and to tell you the truth, had I approached dad or Lisa… I don't know what could have happened, I had, terrible nightmares, I did things that I can't imagine myself doing, but they all felt real… way too real! -
Lola couldn't even begin to process what was happening, as Lincoln began weeping uncontrollably as well, on her shoulder, the sole fact that a man that played to be strong for so long was now straight up breaking down on her.
How the hell did she dare to hate on this man? he was her brother, he was always there for her, even at her literal worst, like right now, when they both hit rock-bottom.
She couldn't, but then, that hatred felt so real.
Why? Why hate? But Lisa said…
And she also said, that she couldn't be aroused anymore…
Something was off…
Her brother was finally calming down, Lola simply remained still there, in her kneeling position, looking into his swollen, red eyes.
He looked destroyed, he looked weak, fragile.
But he looked genuine and kind.
Exactly like the man that she loved.
- mmm… Lincoln, we still have to get the diamond - Lola announced uncomfortably, as the albino recomposed himself.
- You're right Lols, let's get that damn sixth chaos diamond - Lincoln said with a renewed smile, passionate determination flowed through him, that energy…
Something inside her contracted strongly… and it felt wrong, but also, so… right.
She was still too confused.
Into the story:
"The combined work of Triton and DeLola's confessions proved successful, as the glass barrier sealing the diamond away from their reach shattered and vanished, leaving the bright red stone of legend to their reach.
As soon as the witch and the duke raised their hands simultaneously to pick it up, something else happened, as the rest of the diamonds in the ex-cowboy's inventory escaped their confinement, all surrounding the red stone.
Then, the intense glow of all the diamonds started flickering in discontinuous patterns in what could only be described as a communication between them, which lead to the six legendary stones becoming… partially inactive, one exact half missing their luster and shine, while the other remained vibrant and colorful.
Right after that, the stones went back to the duke's backpack, containing themselves securely.
The pair, unbeknownst to the event that transpired, decided to leave the weight of said implications for later, a more important matter was now in their hands.
Triton knelt to his companion's height, held her hands in gentlemen fashion and approached her face.
Once again, with a warm, romantic kiss of reunion, the couple was ready to embark with new found determination.
To their last challenge"
Back in the real world.
- Hey… don't look at me like that! - Lincoln raised his hands to shield himself from the penetrant glare of his sister - The characters in the story are in love, remember - He defended himself with a smirk.
- She still drank the "potion of emptiness" in the story, dumbass - Lola retorted, scoffing at him.
- Well, if the magic of the diamonds "unpetrified" her, surely they also got rid of that, now couldn't they? - Lincoln insisted on defending his take.
- Sure, whatever, and what about the "half-shine" of the diamonds - Lola demanded with great annoyance.
- …well - Lincoln suddenly adopted a more somber demeanor - I don't think either of us deserve the diamonds fully - He confessed sadly, a vage answer at that.
But Lola understood what he meant immediately.
- Let's see, I gained a few pounds, I didn't shower for two weeks, you cheated your way up, I was jealous of you hating others and not me, you objectified me all these days - Lola recounted the events with painful accuracy - …and let me guess, getting rid of hatred is just not that simple? -
- That would be about it - Lincoln admitted sadly - We're not perfect Lola, we have… issues, and just writing a story won't make them go away -
- Yeah, I guess you're right - Lola conceded, looking to the side.
- I made a mistake by taking your medication away, starting from tomorrow, I'll buy you those pills again -
- Correction, I'll give you the money so that we can go together and buy them - Lola added angrily.
- …right - Lincoln looked ashamed to the side - And after that, we look for an appointment with a therapist, I think Dr. Lopez is a very good one, I'll try to reconnect with Dr. Robinson, sounds good? - He added energetically, looking back expectantly at his sister's approval.
- …Those guys are useless - She responded with a huff.
- Did you actually try to open up to them though? - Lincoln knew what she meant.
- … fine, I'll try again - Point taken, Lola agreed begrudgingly, never a fan of psychologists herself, after years of everyone in that house begging her to go again.
They'll try to convince her again on being an actual victim of child sexual abuse… Lincoln might just be shooting himself in the foot.
- Then it's settled! - Lincoln raised his fist to get a friendly fist bump with his sister, which she agreed to - And… also - He then rubbed his arm, expressing difficulty at his following words - …when we feel better, we could, you know, uh, c-c-c-communicate with… them and… -
- We need to, it's the only way that we can both move on from this… in fact, I think we need to gather them all - Lola added her own twist to Lincoln's initiative.
- well… we can try that too - Lincoln also agreed with reservations.
- Now we just need to find a way - Lola rested her hand on her chin in thinking fashion.
- mmm… is Lana still in the house? - Lincoln started thinking as well.
- no… she also… vanished - Lola revealed with deep regret.
- Do you have any leads? - Lincoln questioned further.
- yeah, I may a have few… - Lola admitted looking to the side
- Great, in that case… I think I may have a plan, you focus on getting her back - Lincoln interrupted her with a confident statement.
Which Lola had no issue believing, he was still after all, the man with the plan.
The one that she admired so much in the past, which she fell madly in love for…
And now that she remembered, he was still in his boxers, his well built chest marked a very apparent six-pack, he was still taking care of himself very well.
- Uh, yeah, I can… try getting Lana back and then… uh - She was, actually, stuttering, her legs trembled slightly, how embarrassing!
- Is there something wrong sis? - Lincoln approached his head to hers, allowing their foreheads to establish contact, he was trying to check on her temperature, which unfortunately for her, alerted him immensely, as he confirmed that her body temperature was high.
- Lola! You have a fever, come on, I'll bring you to an ICU - Lincoln readied himself to stand up.
But a pair of hands forced him back down.
- Wait, I-i'm fine, really… it's just - Lola stuttered again, unable to hide her blush.
- Lola you're red, are you ok? - Lincoln was legitimately concerned.
- Yeah, totally totally - Lola deflected his concern - I'm just tired, we kind of went over, uh, a fight and a long chapter y'know? -
- Right, now that you mention it, I am tired - Lincoln admitted, yawning subconsciously.
- Yeah, l-let's just go to sleep - Lola pushed the issue further, faking a yawn.
- Dang it, I have to sleep on the wet side - Lincoln hid himself under the mattress, only to realize its dampness, coming off from their little spectacle in the pool earlier.
- Yeah, and I have to sleep in my smelly side, heh… hehe~ -
Then he heard it, something that he hadn't listened to since he brought her back to his apartment the first time.
Lola giggled adorably at their poor luck… she, actually, giggled.
- I'm sorry, hahaha - Lola's laughter was still going, and Lincoln was still In complete shock.
- it's… ok - He couldn't even think straight, this side of his sister, he thought it was long gone, especially without those pills.
And as soon as she was done expressing her hilarity, Lola paused one moment to elicit a genuine yawn, she was actually sleepy herself.
- Ok Linc, I don't even know what to say, but… in the end, I had fun, good night - Lola replied warmly while covering herself on her side of the bed.
- Good night Lols - Lincoln replied kindly, he was positively elated at this development.
He was forever going to grief not having her as a woman, but his sister's happiness was more than enough.
- Hey, don't forget to kiss your princess~ - Lola looked at him with half-lidded eyes and a potent smirk, knowing that what she was doing was nothing but cruelty towards him.
- Of course, m'lady - Lincoln played along, and approached her forehead to plant another soft peck in it.
Then it happened.
Lola ambushed him, grabbing his neck with a quick motion to make his lips land on hers.
They kissed, for real this time, a simple peck.
But for Lincoln, it felt like if a comet had just blasted the room, his mind flared.
Her breath was potentially toxic, but he couldn't even give a damn.
His entire life was back on track.
- Tomorrow, we have a busy schedule, don't we? - Lola looked directly into his eyes, which were still open wide - I hope you enjoyed your good luck kiss mr. CEO -
It was hopeless, Lincoln had transformed into a statue.
And Lola giggled once again, before retreating back into her covers, sleeping would then come soon after, without even needing to fake it.
She still had a crap ton of issues to resolve, as soon as this brief moment of joy was over…
The demons, the voices, they would come back, to remind her of that horrible mistake she just committed, that was for sure.
But for now, she could rest easy.
That kiss…
She loved it.
Author's Notes: 200k words! *huff* this story probably grew way bigger than I ever expected it to, but here it is, six out of seven, we're reaching the end!
I wanted to leave this big chapter here before anything else, unfortunately, due to the intensity of my studies in this semester, I can't guarantee a weekly upload anymore, sorry guys... I am still fully committed to finishing this story, but the next arc is going to be the quite complex and i don't want to rush it.
ASatanW: Wow, really? I don't think I deserve that honor when there's writers like UnderratedHero and Catspeaker out there delivering amazing stories consistently, but it means a lot that someone would think that highly of my fic!
king Ks: Once again sorry! I hope at least this one doesn't count as a cliffhanger.
In the meantime, I would like to ask my readers: What part of the story has entertained or intrigued you the most? What part left you with a sour taste? Out of the seven arcs, which one do you think was better? The beginning (Ch P-10)? Gluttony? Sloth? Greed? Envy? Lust? Wrath? Let me know in the reviews!
And yeah, this specific A/N is at the bottom because I wanted to see if it's better that way, so you guys can read the story first, should I go back to the old format?
Cheers!