And almost a year later, we're at chapter 10. This fanfic MIGHT see an ending sometime before humans are on Mars, but only God knows what chapter I'd be on if I didn't procrastinate on this fic, but if I'm only able to get one or two chapters out per month, then so be it. Still not gonna outright abandon it though. Anyways, I hope chapter 9 was fun to read, and I hope this one is too. We'll be starting directly where I left chapter 9 off from ofc.
Everybody stood surprised, especially the Loyalists. An individual of another species invoking a Rite of Proving? Nonetheless one they consider weaker than them.
"So, do you accept the challenge?" Luz asked once again.
Khuun's subordinates all turned to look at him. Reluctantly, he answered, "On behalf of the Loyalists, we accept your challenge. Though, I am not the champion of our faction. Despite this, I will bear the responsibility of our champion's loss." The Loyalists behind Khuun all mumbled to each other in their native language, some agreeing and disagreeing. Khuun continued, "What are your terms?"
Luz smiled, "Our terms are simple. If we win, you all have to leave the Demon Realm and go back to wherever you came from." Khuun interrupted Luz before she could state the losing terms herself.
"And if you lose, then you all are subject to arrest, and possibly execution by the Loyalists, especially Caiatl." Khuun added.
Under her mask, Caiatl was sneering at Khuun, "We won't lose. Tend to your 'champion'. There will be much blood on our hands when we are finished with them."
"We'll give you all until dusk tomorrow. Human, where shall this Rite take place?" Khuun asked.
"We'll have it at a place called the Bonesborough Brawl arena. I'm sure your friends from the Emperor's Coven can help you find it." Luz replied.
"Then it is settled. At dusk, you and your allies will clash with our champion." Khuun ordered his subordinates to turn around, "Until then." The Loyalists moved out
Caiatl watched as they walked away, "Do you truly believe they will stay true to the terms, human?" Caiatl asked.
"I'm not really certain. To be honest, I didn't think they'd even accept the challenge," Luz laughed awkwardly, "But I'm glad they did. Maybe they'll make good on their word." She said optimistically. She turned around, "Amity, Ed, Emira. You guys okay?"
"Yeah. A bit spooked, but we're fine." Amity responded.
"A bit spooked?! They pointed some big weird futuristic weapons at us! I'm more than just 'a bit spooked'!" Edric yelled out.
"But we're okay now, right?" Emira asked.
"I am afraid not," Caiatl responded. "This is a rare predicament for our species as a whole. But do not fret. I do believe that we will prevail. Should you win against the Loyalists, they will be dishonored, demoralized. We'll have the upper hand against them."
"Right. So, how do we defeat them?" Amity asked.
"Easy, we just send Caiatl and the other guy in to fight for us, right?" Luz proposed.
"No. I was not the one to start this. It is against tradition for me to take part, especially as an empress. But Valus Satuur can participate if he so pleases." Caiatl replied.
Everyone looked at the Valus. Satuur laughed, "I've been waiting to spill their blood ever since I arrived." He grunted. "But I want these little ones to prove themselves worthy of our support. Those Loyalist dogs will surely go against their word the first chance they get. There are battles even we cannot win alone."
Luz sighed in disappointment, "Of course that's the case. So, say we don't necessarily know how to defeat their champion, what do we do?"
"You and your friends almost defeated their Primus, that is no small feat. A similar plan may suffice, if executed correctly. Although, this time you won't have the element of surprise." Caiatl told Luz.
Luz put her finger up in the air, "Hey! I have an idea! Is it against the rules to bring in some friends to fight with me? I think their abilities would be perfect for this, not to mention they're some pretty tough fighters."
"As long as they are willing to lay down their lives for the sake of this world, then I do not see why there would be any issue with it." Caiatl said.
Luz yawned, "Well, I'll tell them tomorrow. I'm tired."
Caiatl nodded in agreement, "Yes, you will need your rest. We will be there to support you should any problems arise during your battle." She continued talking, "When you gather all of those who wish to fight with you, report back here. There will be no time for strategy or planning. We don't know what type of Cabal they will put on the field. Now go. I have to tend to the dead, if I can find them, that is."
"Got it." Luz looked to Amity and her siblings, waving goodbye to them as she left to return home.
"Yeah, we should get home too. Mom and dad are probably worried sick." Edric told his sisters. They both nodded in agreement and walked out of the ship. Amity stayed behind for a little while and looked back, Caiatl was staring at them. Amity received a nod from the empress before she caught up to her siblings again.
Once everyone left, Satuur stepped closer to Caiatl, "Empress. You came with an advisor, correct? The Psion?"
Caiatl nodded, "Yes, what of her?"
"Where is she? Do you think she was killed with the others?"
"I would hope not. But if she truly is gone, then the deaths of her, and the others who came with us shall not be in vain. For now, we will have to leave our fates in the hands of these witches and the human."
"Empress, if I may ask. Why do you trust the human so much? What do you see in her that makes you so confident she'll succeed?" Satuur asked.
Caiatl looked up, "I…am not so certain. Perhaps I see a bit of myself in her. Willing to do anything for the protection of the place she calls home. Or maybe even it is the fact that she resembles the Guardians I have come to respect, in some way." She looked back at Satuur, "But trust in her abilities alone will not get us to victory. I will take the necessary steps to ensure our triumph over Calus."
"Certainly, empress. And I'll stand by your side until my very last breath."
In the morning, Luz gathered the others in the living room to tell them of what she'd be doing.
"Yeah, so, I kind of got myself involved in some battle of honor type thing with the Cabal dudes, and I'm thinking that things are going to get a bit…crazy. I just wanted to know if you all would come to support me if things got out of hand? Now, before you say anyth-"
"Yeah, we'll come to cheer you on, kid." Eda responded.
"Than-" Luz jumped back in surprise, "Wait, really? You're not against this Eda?" Luz asked.
"Nope, in fact. I'm kind of jealous that I won't get to fight 'em with you." Eda responded.
"Right! I'd chew them up and spit them out if I could!" King yelled. "But they'd probably do that to me instead so I think I'll just watch."
"I didn't think you'd be okay with me doing this. Are you really sure?"
"As sure as I'll ever be, until a later date." Eda replied.
"That's great!" Luz stood up, "We'll be at the Bonesborough Brawl Arena. Tell some others! Or, y'know, don't, it might be pretty dangerous."
"Tell me again, you aren't gonna do this by yourself, are you?" Eda asked.
"Nope, I already called everyone up. They should be outside waiting right now." Luz said as she headed for the door, opening it to see Gus, Willow and Amity standing outside. They were all in some sort of battle attire. "Guys! I'm glad you came. You ready to kick some alien butt?!"
"I definitely didn't have fighting giant aliens on my list of things to do before I grew old, but I'm for sure ready to do so now!" Gus yelled. The others nodded in agreement.
Willow stepped forward, "They might have the size, weapon and strength advantages. But they ain't no witches like we are! Let's show them what we can really do!"
"I hope you guys keep the same energy when we actually get there." Luz said cheerfully. She looked at Amity, and walked over to her, "You're awfully quiet. You okay?" She asked.
"I'm fine. I'm just thinking to myself. Nothing to worry about." Amity responded.
"If you say so. But we'll need all of your mind if we want to win. So, try to keep the self thinking down until after the battle, okay?" Luz said before she gave Amity a light kiss on the cheek.
"I think that was all the motivation I needed." Amity said flusteredly.
"Alright guys. We have a bit of time but there's someone we have to meet before we actually get to the battle." Before they could all walk away, Eda came running out the house with a jacket and gloves in her hand.
"Here kid. If you're gonna be out there, you might as well be stylish with it, huh?" Eda handed her the accessories. Luz took them, putting the jacket and gloves on. Eda scruffed up her hair, putting it into a new style. "There ya go. Lookin' like a real fighter now. Go on, kid. We'll be rootin' for ya."
Luz hugged Eda tightly, "Thanks, Eda. See you when we get back." She walked back over to her friends, and told them to follow her.
A few minutes later, they made it to Caiatl's ship.
Caiatl noticed them, "Good, you made it." She looked at Gus and Willow, "These are the allies you chose to battle with you?"
"A greeting would have been nice." Gus said sarcastically.
"Yeah, they are. That's not a problem is it?" Luz answered.
"Hm, nevermind it. Far be it from me to underestimate warriors of a smaller size." Caiatl replied.
"Huh?" Luz asked, confused.
"I once undermined the abilities of my enemies. I thought them to be weaker than my soldiers, that they were under them in every possible way. How wrong I was." Caiatl told Luz, "If I made such an error, then certainly the Loyalists will make the same mistake."
"Do you really think we could win?" Amity asked.
"I would not speak those words if I didn't believe them." Caiatl said.
"You don't really seem like the type to go down easy. Unless you're outnumbered or something." Luz told Caiatl.
Satuur stepped over, "Our adversaries were like demons. They tore through us like a blade piercing the skin. I was there when they challenged our own champion to a Rite of Proving, it is the only other time something like it has happened, other than now. I am almost embarrassed to say I didn't die in honor and glory defending him. From our opponents."
"Yes, I remember. You were there when they took to the hangar bay. I originally ordered the execution of those who survived for failing their champion. But after seeing the true power of the Guardians, I saw that there was no use in wasting warriors who could survive such an onslaught." Caiatl replied.
"It sounds like whoever you went up against was super-duper strong. We most likely aren't that strong, but we'll make up for it with our unrivaled teamwork." Luz said cheerfully.
"And that's a fact!" Gus exclaimed.
"It is good to see you all so motivated, though we should move to the arena now." Caiatl told the others.
"Why? We still have plenty of time before it starts." Luz responded.
"To be truthful, I am eager to see how this plays out. I want to see this arena for myself. Perhaps then we can figure something out if we arrive before them." Caiatl answered Luz.
"I kinda see what you're sayin'. I don't see why I should say no though. Let's go." Luz began walking in the direction of the arena, while the others followed her.
At Firebase Ares, the Loyalists were picking out and choosing their champion, albeit by a reluctant Za'aurk. He walked down a line of Cabal standing shoulder to shoulder with each other while Khuun followed him. He examined each one, up and down. "Bracus Khuun! Which one of these soldiers do you see fit for the challenge?" Za'aurk asked.
"I do not know, Primus. I wanted to leave the selection up to you, Primus." Khuun answered.
Za'aurk quickly responded, frustrated, "If you can not choose a champion, then why would you accept a Rite of Proving?! You are a fool for entertaining the requests of these vermin. But this is something we must see through nonetheless."
"My apologies, Primus. I did not originally think this would cause too many problems. I believe that in the moment, I was more focused on preserving our honor than having to save face later." Khuun replied, putting his head down in shame.
"No matter. There is no doubt in my mind that Caiatl will follow the rules of tradition, and pit the human and witches themselves against us." Za'aurk continued walking, "So, Bracus? Who will it be? Who will serve our empire this day?"
Khuun stopped in front a pair of elite gladiators. "These two, Primus. They look like they'll make swift work of those weaklings."
Za'aurk walked over and stared at the pair, "What are your names?"
"My name is Nor, sir." One of the gladiators answered.
"I am Vox, Primus." The other answered.
Za'aurk continued, "Are you both prepared to serve your emperor to the best of your abilities?" The gladiators nodded at the same time, "Do you understand the consequences that will befall you should you lose?" They once again nodded, "Lastly, are your blades sharpened?"
This time, one of the gladiators spoke up, "Primus, I would rather have my blade cleave through the flesh of the traitors than have its sharpness wasted on mere weaklings. But every order given to me, is a swing that my blade must endure. In the name of the emperor!"
"Then it is settled. These two will be our champions!" Za'aurk yelled loud enough for the entire line of soldiers to hear him, "Pay your respects to your champions, grunts!" In an instant, the two gladiators were met with salutes from their comrades, Za'aurk and Khuun also saluted them. "Relish this moment while you can," Za'aurk whispered to the pair. "At ease!" He yelled. "Return to your posts!" Every soldier stepped out of line, returning to their original duties. "Gladiators, prepare yourselves if you wish. This will be an easy battle for you, I expect victory in no less than a minute when you're out there. Dismissed." The pair bowed and walked away. "Bracus! Where did the human say this Rite of Proving would take place?"
"She mentioned something of a 'brawl arena'. Though, I do not know where that is."
"Of course. It seems we'll need a guide then."
Later in the day, Hunter was taking a stroll through the forest, trying to clear his mind, "Don't get into situations bigger than myself," He mocked Belos. "Yeah, what a bunch of nonsense. I'm the Golden Guard! I should be getting into situations bigger than myself daily! It's my duty!" He yelled to himself. Flapjack flew out of the trees and onto Hunter's shoulder. The little bird chirped happily. Hunter sighed, "At least you understand my worth little buddy." Flapjack chirped again, "What, you found something? What is it?" Flapjack flew off the boy's shoulder and hovered over him, urging him to follow. Shortly he flew away into the trees. Hunter took chase telling Flapjack to wait up.
Soon, they ended up at the end of the treeline that met with the start of a beach, they crouched as they peeked through some shrubbery. Hunter's eyes widened as he saw dozens of dropships, and Cabal walking along the beach, patrolling, conversing, and even sparring with each other. "Is this what you wanted to show me, Flapjack? This must be where they're operating from, huh?" Flapjack chirped in agreement. "Should we do something about them?" Flapjack shook his head in disagreement. "I guess you're right. They are technically allied with us. But uncle doesn't really like them, and neither do most of the Coven Heads. Maybe I'd be doing them a favor in telling them off." He stuck a finger on his chin, contemplating what he should do. Sensing danger, Flapjack took the form of a staff and fell into Hunter's hands. "Buddy?" Hunter said quietly.
Hunter didn't hear the sound of a war beast while lost in his train of thought. He quickly got down and hid himself within the bushes. He could hear the beast growling and barking, he was terrified and stayed as still and quiet as he could for the sake of his life. He felt a sense of relief when he heard it was being held back by a chain. The boy let out a sigh of relief, he then covered his mouth in haste. He hoped that no one heard it. Suddenly, the beast started sniffing the air, and then the ground. Holding his breath, he kept his mouth covered.
The war beast yanked on its chain, tugging its handler along with them, "What is it that you smell you beast?! Whatever you find better be worth my time. Last time you led me straight to a pack of…worm creatures." The legionary handling them chuckled, "Luckily for us, you won't need a meal for the rest of the week." The beast walked over near the bush Hunter was hiding in, sniffing it intensely. It started to growl at it. "Here? Fine." The handler spread the bush open with his free hand, looking into it. "Nothing. Of course." The handler tugged the beast along, continuing on his path.
Hunter let out a big sigh, catching his breath. This time, the dog growled more viciously, turning back around. It looked into Hunter's bush and found him. The beast dragged Hunter out by his pant leg, ripping it a little bit, but sparing him from any major injury, he was dragged to the foot of the handler on his back. The beast suddenly let go, and started licking its paw in satisfaction. Hunter, grasping his staff tightly, decided to speak first, "Uh. Hello?" He said awkwardly.
"Intruder!" The handler exclaimed. "What are you doing here? How did you find this place?"
Hunter got up to stand on his legs, and dusted himself off still holding his staff tightly. "Well, this isn't exactly the most well hidden place on the Isles. Not by a longshot I'm pretty sure. Anyone with a boat could have sailed by and found your little base." He told the handler, "And you oughta get your pets under control. That one almost bit my leg off, y'know?" He pointed to the war beast that dragged him.
The handler laughed, "Foolish boy. You spy and trespass on our territory, and you lecture me on how to control my war beast? You are brave, I will give you that." He yanked the chain holding the beast, trying to intimidate Hunter, "Who are you with? So we can send you back mangled as a message to never come back here."
Hunter gulped, but nonetheless kept his stern facade, "For your info, I'm the Golden Guard of the Emperor's Coven. If any of you even laid a finger on me, your alliance with Emperor Belos would be over in a flash." Hunter chuckled a bit, "Not like you all would be able to catch me anyway," He said arrogantly as he crossed his arms with a smirk on his face.
"The Emperor's Coven? Why would they send one of their own to spy on us? We're allies after all!" The handler yelled.
"It's…complicated. But trust me! I'm not here to spy on you! I'm just here to…have things go smoother between our two factions. Y'know? Just so we can work together better." Hunter said nervously.
"So, they sent their own diplomat, hm? About time you witches returned the favor. Come, I'll take you to our Primus." The handler turned around, heading to the heart of the base, tugging his war beast along with him.
"Um, alright then." Hunter followed him. Inside, he was terrified but kept up his tough look. In his mind, he was questioning his decision to even continue along with his lie, but it was too late to turn back now. He held his staff in front of his face, and then moved it back towards his chest, firmly grasping it. Just like the other day at the emperor's castle, he caught stares from every Cabal he walked past. He decided to just look forward and ignore them.
After a few minutes of walking, they arrived at the heart of the base, finding Za'aurk giving out orders to his subordinates. The handler stopped before his Primus, and saluted him. "Primus Za'aurk, my apologies if I am disturbing you. I've brought a diplomat from our allies, the Emperor's Coven. He says he is here to make our operations go smoother between our two factions."
The handler moved out of the way to reveal Hunter standing there. Hunter waved to Za'aurk, "Hello, my name is…Hunter. And yours is?" He asked nervously.
"They sent a child to talk with us? What do they take us for?!" Za'aurk yelled out. "It hardly matters now. What is it that you wished to talk to me about?"
"I was uh, sent by Emperor Belos to talk about your…next plan of action. Yeah, he wanted to know what you all were going to do next, y'know, so the Emperor's Coven can help you all out." Hunter knew he was lying, but he had hoped Za'aurk was dense enough to follow through.
"Hm, I see. At the moment, we are dealing with several things. Chief amongst them is chasing a traitor who has come here." Za'aurk laughed, "But I doubt you witches would be able to deal with them efficiently."
Hunter frowned, "Uh, huh. Way to insult the diplomat sent by your allies." He whispered to himself.
Za'aurk continued, "Although, I do believe there is something you can help us with."
Hunter raised an eyebrow, "Oh, and what's that?"
"It is no big task. We simply need a guide. And we need to get there before dusk." Za'aurk responded.
"Uh, sure. I can do that, I guess." Hunter frowned once again. He had hoped for a bigger task. "Where do you need to go exactly?"
"My subordinate told me it was a 'brawl arena'. Do you know of any place called that?" Za'aurk told Hunter.
"Brawl arena? Oh! I know, you're looking for the Bonesborough Brawl arena. It's a little weird that you guys of all people are joining, but hey, to each their own. Yeah, I can take you there." Hunter replied.
"Excellent. Let me gather our fighters and then we will move out." Za'aurk said as he walked away.
"I'll just wait here then." Hunter leant on the side of a large crate. No one was around, so Flapjack transformed back into the form of a bird. He chirped at Hunter with discontent. "Yeah, I know. I should have just taken my chances and ran. But that would have made me a coward, wouldn't it?" Flapjack shook his head no. "Oh, what do you know? You're just a bird." Hunter said dismissively. Flapjack transformed back into staff form once again and fell into Hunter's hands.
Za'aurk came stomping back, and he had a small squad of six legionaries behind him, along with Khuun and their champions. They all stopped near the boy. "He will be our guide there." He pointed to Hunter. "And once it is all over, we'll take the opportunity to crush all of those traitors. Whether we win or lose."
"But Primus. That would go against the rules of the Rite of Proving, would it not?" Bracus Khuun asked.
Za'aurk groaned, "Bracus, the Rite of Proving is an old and dead tradition. There is no reason for us to follow the rules of something so ancient. This is all in the name of Emperor Calus, nothing more, nothing less."
"Yes, Primus." Khuun responded.
Hunter overheard all of this, but he aired most of it out as it had nothing to do with him. "So, are you all ready to go?" They all nodded. "Then let's go." Hunter started walking, and the others followed. They all had their weapons in hand, so Hunter kept his wits about him for his and Flapjack's sake.
Dusk was nearing, and the sun was beginning to set. The Hexsquad, along with Caiatl and Satuur had waited there for hours. They waited so long that a small crowd began to accumulate around the arena after hearing news of a fight taking place, amongst them were two hooded figures, one tall, and the other small. In the meantime, the witches were practicing their magic, and Luz with her glyphs. Caiatl and Satuur simply watched, fascinated by it.
"This…magic. It doesn't even begin to compare to what the Guardians can do. But I wonder how it would compare in the hands of more capable wielders." Satuur said out loud.
"Hey! We heard that!" Gus yelled out as he waved.
"But it's okay! We'll get better!" Willow added.
Satuur continued, "Even then, I don't expect that whoever the Loyalists put against them will be prepared to counter it."
"While I do agree with you, Valus. We don't know how long they have been here, for all we know, they could have developed some sort of magic suppressing device by now." Caiatl kept talking, "These Loyalists may have seen minimal combat in their time, but they certainly are intelligent for what they are."
"Well, whatever is left of their intelligence outside of this place is most certainly under our control. Just about all of their scientists are dead, their experiments and research seized or destroyed. Additionally, their Leviathan is ours. Even if they did defeat us here, they still would not be able to come back from such losses, especially with our fleet above orbit." Satuur replied.
"Indeed. But let us not dwell on what could happen, let us focus on how we will overcome our foes now." Caiatl responded as she kept her eyes on the kids.
After a few more minutes of waiting, the Loyalists finally arrived, Za'aurk at the forefront. Everyone else noticed them, staring as they made their entrance. Out of the group, the champions stood out the most, they looked nearly identical to their royal bather counterparts, wearing only helmets and loincloth around their bodies, their upper bodies painted a rich gold, with their lower bodies being painted black. They both stopped near the edge of the arena. Luz and the others then noticed someone else, they all saw Hunter standing next to Za'aurk, and Hunter in turn noticed them too.
Satuur scoffed, "Tch. If there is one thing these Loyalists scum are good for. It is their presentation when they want to show off."
The kids all ran back over to Caiatl and Satuur. They all had a worried look on their faces. "You all looked troubled. You aren't reconsidering, are you?" Caiatl asked them.
"No, it's not that at all. It's just that we saw a friend standing next to that Primus guy." Luz told Caiatl.
"Is it okay if we postpone this for just a minute, just so we can talk to him?" Willow asked.
Caiatl looked over to Satuur, then back to the kids, and nodded to them. They all ran to Hunter, but before they could get to him, Za'aurk stepped in their way. "So, you small things actually came. My luck gets better as the days go by. I know it was you who burned my eye." He looked directly at Luz, "Luckily for me, it seems I'll get my retribution on this day."
"I'm starting to regret not burning both of your eyes out!" Luz retorted. "Now out of the way! Our business isn't with you yet."
"But of course. I'm eager to see how long you survive, so try not to take too long." Za'aurk said as he laughed and stepped away from them
After their conversation with Za'aurk, Hunter ran over to the others. "What are you guys doing here?! Is there some kind of big event going on or something?" He asked.
"Here's the thing. We are the event, if you know what I mean." Luz told Hunter.
"You're what?" Hunter was confused and also had a hint of worry in his tone.
"Long story short, we're gonna be fighting these guys, and if we win, they have to leave the Demon Realm forever, and if we lose, well. You know what happens." Luz answered.
"I- Why would you even do something like that?!" Hunter exclaimed.
Luz scratched the back of her head, "It seemed like the right idea at the time. But now, not so much." She laughed awkwardly. "Either way, I have no doubt we can overcome them."
Willow stepped up, "Hey, Hunter! You should join us! We can confuse 'em up just like a round of flyer derby!"
Hunter gave her a contempt look, "Willow, I'd really like to do that but, who knows what they'll do or who they'd tell if I helped you guys out. I could get in big trouble since they're allied with the Emperor's Coven. I'm…sorry, but I'll have to say no." He leaned in to whisper to her, "Another time, maybe?"
Willow looked disappointed, but didn't let the answer get her down. She nodded with a determined expression. She turned around back to the others, "Let's beat these guys back to wherever they came from!" She raised her arms in the air, and the others followed suit. Hunter looked like he wanted to say something, but refrained, and instead walked over next to Za'aurk.
In the arena, the two gladiators, Vox and Nor, bore their blades. They both sharpened their blades against the hard surface beneath them, waiting for their opponents to arrive. Soon, the Hexsquad entered the arena, their staffs and glyphs in hand. Vox pointed one of his blades at them, while Nor slammed his blades against the ground in anticipation.
Two legionaries carried over a large horn to the side of the arena and placed it down. Khuun stepped over, with Za'aurk next to him. "Champions! Ready yourselves!" Za'aurk yelled out, his voice booming through the air. "Let the Rite of Proving commence!" Khuun blew into the horn, signifying the start of the battle. The crowd cheered on their fellow witches, while booing the Loyalists.
Nor made the first move, jumping at the group and slashing at them, which was promptly blocked by Willow putting up a shield made of plants. Vox followed it up by cutting through the plants, he let out a small roar as he swung at them again, just barely missing them. The group split up, Amity went with Luz and Gus went with Willow.
Amity summoned a giant abomination arm and punched Vox in the face with it, stunning him for a second, which allowed Luz to place an ice glyph under him, spawning a pillar that sent him into the sky. Vox course corrected himself in the air and sent himself into the ground toward the two, creating a small shockwave which knocked them back. They both groaned in pain, rubbing their heads. He muttered something in Ulurant, and then laughed. Vox brought his blades down upon them, they both dodged just in time.
"Okay, pillars of ice aren't gonna work against these guys too well." Luz said to herself. She pulled out a few plant glyphs out of her pocket, "Let's put these to work then."
Meanwhile, Gus and Willow were keeping Nor at bay. Gus summoned illusions of himself that encircled Nor, confusing him greatly. "It'll take more than clones to fool me, witch!" Nor yelled. He started to swing wildly at the illusions, and with each one he attacked, Gus made sure to tell him he was hitting the wrong target. "Show yourself!" They adhered to Nor's yelling, and Gus withdrew all of his clones.
"Come and get me!" Gus yelled. Nor charged at the boy before getting grabbed and held back by a massive vine from Willow. The vine threw Nor across the arena. He kneeled on one knee, holding himself up with one of his blades. Gus and Willow took advantage of Nor's vulnerability, Willow took the sky on her staff, while Gus created clones of her. Willow and her clones distracted Nor. The gladiator lost his balance after being tripped up by a vine. Gus took the opportunity to run up with a bunch of fire glyphs and stuck them wherever he could on Nor's body.
As Nor stood up, the glyphs activated, causing the gladiator to get burned intensely. He screamed in pain, flailing around. Nor's blades flew into the air, throwing Willow off course and causing her to fall. Before she could hit the ground, she grew a flower that broke her fall. She wiped some sweat off her forehead and put a thumb in the air, "I'm okay!" Soon, the glyphs stopped, and Nor fell to the floor, he was certainly defeated. Willow got off her flower, then she and Gus high-fived each other.
The crowd cheered as Nor slowly fell face first. The Loyalists on the other hand were displeased with his failure, all shaking their heads in displeasure. Everyone then turned their heads to Vox, Luz and Amity.
Back with Luz and Amity, their fight with Vox was at something of a stalemate. He was too aggressive for them to do much, throwing swings and slashing at them every chance he got. "It was a foolish decision to challenge us! You should have ran when you had the chance!" Vox taunted them as he attacked.
Amity then summoned a large abomination that tussled with Vox, grabbing him by the arms. Her and Luz were able to take a second to recover, and hopefully come up with a strategy. "Luz?! What do we do?! This guy's too much for the two of us!"
Luz looked over to the other side of the arena to see Willow and Gus running over, "Luckily it looks like we'll be getting a little bit of help then. We need to keep him occupied while we come up with something." Luz snapped her fingers, "Can you keep that abomination up and running? I have an idea."
"I can try, but you'll have to hurry up!" Amity responded.
Luz nodded and ran towards Willow and Gus. They eventually met up with each other, "Glad to see you guys both in one piece! Seems like you had less trouble than us."
"Yeah, glad to see you too. But it looks like you need some help." Willow replied.
Luz huddled them together and quickly explained, "Yep, we need a lot of help, but I came up with a plan to finish this guy off. First, Gus, you need to create a clone of Amity's abomination to keep him distracted, then Willow, once he's done that, I want you to send him flying into the air with a plant, he'll come flying back down to do some special move, but me and Amity will handle that when we get there. Can you guys do that?" Gus and Willow nodded, "Great! Now break!" They all ran to position around Vox, while Luz ran back over to Amity, "Okay, I need you to trust me. Dissolve the abomination."
"But-" Amity tried to protest.
"Amity, just do it! It'll be fine. Just get ready to dish out a big punch once he comes flying back down." Luz told her. Amity nodded and dissolved her abomination.
Vox was freed, he took a second to recover before continuing his assault against Luz and Amity. He was stopped by Gus's abomination clone after being conked on the head by it. He turned around, "Another one? Don't you know when you're defeated?!" He yelled as he began to brawl with the abomination.
While Vox was distracted, Willow summoned a large plant under Vox that sent him flung high into the air, just like last time, he corrected himself and sent himself flying back down at the group, but this time, they were ready. Amity conjured a large spiked fist made up of abomination goo to strike Vox directly in the face, causing the gladiator to groan in pain, sending him back, and making him fall to the ground. Vox too, was down.
The small crowd cheered loudly, but Caiatl and Satuur withheld their celebration.
The kids couldn't believe it, they had overcome the Rite of Proving, "Did- Did we do it?" Willow asked.
"I think we did it." Gus said.
"We beat them?" Amity also asked.
"We did it guys! We defeated them!" Luz exclaimed proudly. They all ran to give each other a group hug.
In spite of their celebration, Vox started to get up. He wasn't done with them yet. He took the chance to strike them while they were engrossed in their celebration. He took a blade off the ground and using what strength he had left, he raised it into the air.
Hunter took notice of this and looked at Flapjack, he knew what he had to do. Just before Vox could bring his blade down, Hunter teleported to the others and then teleported them to safety, they all fell to the ground, but he saved them all from a cheap death. "Everybody okay?" Hunter asked. "Wow, I'm kinda getting better at that."
After Hunter's display of bravery, the two hooded figures in the crowd nodded at each other.
Luz rubbed her head, "Ouch. Wait, Hunter? What was that for?" She asked.
"While you all were celebrating, you almost got sliced in half. Thankfully, I saved you all. I believe that thanks are in order." Hunter replied proudly.
"Yeah, we'll have to do that later." Gus said as he pointed to Vox running at them with his blade.
They all got up, taking defensive positions. Suddenly, Vox stopped running. A hole the size of a Grudgby ball could be seen in his chest. He looked at the hole, before dropping to the ground, his blade fell right out of his hand. Behind him was Za'aurk, "You were defeated, but not killed. You knew the punishment for failure." Za'aurk kicked Vox's dead body in disrespect. "Perhaps you all are true warriors. Maybe Caiatl's judgment was not misplaced after all."
Caiatl and Satuur walked over to the group, "Primus. You've lost. Now leave this place at once. You and your emperor only seek to cause turmoil in the realm, you have no purpose here." Caiatl told Za'aurk.
"Oh no, Caiatl. Our purpose here has only just been realized." The legionaries that accompanied Za'aurk and Khuun surrounded the group, aiming their weapons at them. "It is thanks to Bracus Khuun that you fell for this trap. An accidental one at that. One that your very allies set up for us perfectly. Now surrender, and we may let these children leave unscathed. But we won't guarantee their safety when Emperor Calus's true aim has been realized."
"But you agreed to the terms of loss! You're breaking the rules of your own tradition!" Luz yelled at Za'aurk.
"You expect us to follow the rules of a dead tradition? Nevertheless in a world that barely knows the Cabal." Za'aurk replied. "And by that logic, we'll weed you all out along with Caiatl and her traitors."
"Hunter stood in front of the other kids and spread his arms out, "As the Golden Guard of the Emperor's Coven, I command you to cease!"
Za'aurk laughed, "Foolish child. Your 'Emperor's Coven' has no power over us. We are Cabal. This is our world now." He continued, "Now, we command you to cease." He said as he went in to grab Hunter.
Caiatl punched Za'aurk with all her force, knocking the Primus to the ground before he could grab him. "Run, we'll cover your escape," She told the kids. Satuur turned to one of the legionaries, surprising him and grabbing his slug rife. Satuur opened fire on them all. As soon as the shots rang out, all the spectators went running away, save for the two hooded individuals. Caiatl was busy taking Za'aurk on in a fist fight. She looked back to see if the kids had started running, but she saw them still standing there, "I am ordering you to leave! Go! Don't come back!" She yelled once more. While she was preoccupied with them, Za'aurk took the chance to get the upper hand on Caiatl, pouncing on her and pummeling her.
The kids listened to Caiatl's orders, and took off on their staffs, Luz hitched a ride with Amity. They all flew away as fast as they could in a random direction. After a few minutes of flying, they landed in a field. Stepping off their staffs, they were all hyperventilating, the adrenaline of the fight still rushing through them. The group sat down, and took a minute to calm down and regather their thoughts.
Amity took a big breath, "Okay, what was any of that?"
"We got deceived by them," Luz said. "I shouldn't have trusted their word at all. I'm sorry guys."
Everyone except Hunter walked over to comfort Luz, "Hey, we all know it's not your fault. You didn't know they'd deceive us," Gus said.
"Besides, we wanted to be there! All that fighting felt exhilarating!" Willow exclaimed. "And terrifying."
Luz smiled at her friends, her expression then changed to one of worry, "Caiatl!" She got up, "Guys, we have to go back to help her!"
"Luz, you heard her. She told us not to go back for her." Amity replied.
"But she needs our help! They'll most certainly imprison her. Or even worse, they'll probably kill her if we don't do something!" Luz yelled.
"I'm sorry, Luz. But I'm with Amity on this. She knows much better than us how dangerous those guys can be. She didn't want to keep us in danger." Gus said. Willow nodded in agreement.
"We can think of something when we get somewhere safer." Amity told Luz, "There isn't anything we can do right now to help."
"Maybe you're right. Let's just go. We have to do something whenever we can." Luz replied.
As everybody was about to get on their staffs, Hunter spoke up, "Hey uh, guys?" They all looked back at him, he started to rub his arm as if he was embarrassed, "Would it be okay if…I came with you guys?"
Everyone looked at each other, and nodded. "Sure, but just remember, no funny business. Alright?" Luz told him.
"Really? I mean, yeah, no funny business, got it." Hunter said, trying to hide his happiness under a cool demeanor. After their conversation, everyone flew in the direction of the Owl House.
Back at the arena, Caiatl and Satuur had been defeated. They were overwhelmed by the superior numbers of the Loyalists and couldn't fight any longer, despite this, they were still determined to stay defiant.
"You gave us a pathetic display of your capabilities in battle today. I expected better from you, nonetheless the 'empress' of the Cabal." Za'aurk taunted Caiatl, "Where is your shame? You claim a throne you never deserved, and you can't even fight for it. And clearly you've taught your own soldiers no better either." He pointed to Satuur, who was pinned by legionaries.
Caiatl was also restrained, but nonetheless kept a pragmatic attitude, "There is a time and a place to show one's true abilities. This was not the moment. Were it me against you, I would have pulverized you with my hammer. Then I would go through every Loyalist here until I found Calus."
"It is unfortunate that you won't get to battle then. I would kill you, but I have no reason to." Za'aurk responded.
"Is it that you have no reason to? Or are you under orders from Calus to take me prisoner? You have me at my knees. Take my head off my shoulders, just as Ghaul should have done with my father." Caiatl retaliated.
"Silence, traitor!" Za'aurk roared. "Get them up! We'll take them to what the witches call the 'Conformatorium'. They won't see the light of day again." The legionaries grabbed and picked up Satuur and Caiatl by the arms. "Move out." The group then started walking, a few legionaries had their weapons trained on Caiatl and Satuur in case they got free.
The conversation between the two faction leaders was being eavesdropped on by the two hooded people from earlier. They took off their hoods, and under them were Darius and Eberwolf. "Hm, so they are somewhat competent after all. Still, they have no experience fighting magic users. We can use that to our advantage when the time comes to kick them out." Darius said. He sighed, "First Belos, and now these brutes. Will we ever catch a break?" Eberwolf growled in agreement, and then growled a few more times, "Yes, the boy, Hunter. It does seem he's ready to make a change for himself, for the better. We won't know for sure though, unless we keep tabs on him. We'll get him on our side when the time is right. Darius told his companion. "Now let us leave before any more fights break out." The pair then departed the area.
The night sky covered the Boiling Isles. Qexal and Ilzat landed their barge just outside of a town different from Bonesborough. As they arrived into the town, they noticed fewer crowds but a more tightly packed area. "This town is more dense, much more discreet. Finding a subject here will be much easier." Qexal said.
"There is a lack of our forces here." Ilzat commented.
"Should any problems arise, we will deal with them on our own," Qexal added. "Let us begin our search." Ilzat nodded, and the two continued on further into the town. Soon, they found their way to the police precinct. The two were stopped by a group of coven scouts.
A tall scout approached them, "Halt!" He held the palm of his hand in their faces. The guard further examined them, "Wait, hm?" He was surprised, "You're with that 'Loyalist' faction that arrived here on the Isles a few days ago. What is your business here?"
"Indeed we are. We were sent here personally by our emperor." Qexal responded. "Tell us, where are we?"
"That would be Latissa, the port town. You're a little ways from Bonesborough. Why here?" The guard continued, "There's just about nothing in this place."
"It seems we arrived here by chance. We intended to reach Bonesborough, but we strayed off course on our way here. Although, it doesn't matter, this town is perfect for what we wish to achieve." Ilzat replied.
"Well, whatever it is that you're doing. You'll have to make sure to be careful. There's a lot of sketchy and dangerous figures running around here as of late." The guard told them.
"Of course. We will take the necessary precautions. Thank you for your cooperation." Qexal said as he and Ilzat walked off.
"Where do we start? How do we know who to look for?" Qexal asked his partner.
"That witch mentioned shady figures. Surely no one would care if one, or even two of them went missing." Ilzat responded. "If we want to find such individuals, then we shall stay to the shadows, just as they do."
Just then, the pair saw some Coven scouts chasing two hooded people. Hoping to capitalize on the moment, the two Psions decided to follow them.
The hooded people came to a dead end, and the scouts had them cornered. "Stop right there! You have nowhere else left to go! Reveal yourselves to be taken in! Or…just put your hands up!" One of the scouts ordered. The hooded figures raised their hands, surrendering themselves to the scouts. "Good." The same tall scout from earlier walked up and restrained the two suspects with magic. "Some time behind bars will teach you to lightly smack the back of our heads again." After arresting them, they walked away from the scene.
Qexal and Ilzat approached the scouts, "We meet again." Qexal said. "We see you've apprehended a group of criminals."
"Yes, we have. They've committed a most heinous crime, and now we're gonna be taking them in for questioning." The tall scout responded. "Is there anything you need?"
"Yes, actually. We require the criminals in your possession." Qexal answered.
"Uh, can I ask what for?" The scout asked.
"It is none of your concern. But consider it a return of a favor for letting our faction stay here." Ilzat replied.
"Well, when you put it that way. Hm, alright. I don't see why not." The scout shrugged. "Okay, just tell us where you need us to take them."
"Of course." Ilzat replied. "Follow us." The scouts followed the two Psions, unknowingly leading their newly captured criminals to their dooms. After walking for a while, they all eventually made it to the barge. "We can take them from here. We thank you for your cooperation."
The tall scout scratched the back of his head, a bit confused, "I will admit, this all is a bit weird. But I won't question it. If this keeps criminals like them out of our towns, then it's all fine with me. Is there anything else we can do for you?" He asked.
"We require no more of your assistance. You may leave now." Ilzat answered. The two pushed the prisoners up onto the barge. "Once again, your cooperation is most appreciated. Until we meet again." Ilzat told the scout. The barge's engines fired up, and it slowly left the beach it was parked on.
The scouts watched as the barge sped away, "I don't exactly trust them. Perhaps we'll have to inform someone about this." One of the scouts said. Their partners nodded as they walked away from the beach.
"Where are you taking us?!" One of the criminals asked.
"Where are you going? We are taking you to recognize your true purpose." Qexal responded.
"What?!" Another one yelled out.
"You will see, in due time." Qexal added.
Za'aurk and his subordinates arrived at the Conformatorium, a large tower that pierced the sky. "You have truly outdone yourself, Caiatl. Your incompetence knows no bounds." Za'aurk said. Caiatl ignored him.
The group were approached by the warden of the Conformatorium, Warden Wrath. "So, you all must be those 'Cabal' creatures. Welcome to the Conformatorium. I see you've brought new prisoners for us to take care of."
"We only need somewhere for them to stay put. For the time being at least." Za'aurk replied.
"I can see to it. But they don't seem like the type to be held by simple bars." Wrath said as he looked Caiatl and Satuur up and down.
"Their detainment has already been arranged." Za'aurk said as Urlgor showed up with a shield generator. "You missed it all Valus. I have captured Caiatl. No ordinary Cabal could achieve such a feat. It is a shame I had to relegate you to the duties as base commander. But your time will soon come." Urlgor didn't respond, slightly shaking his head in disapproval.
"If you all would follow me then." Wrath led the Cabal further into his prison, taking them up an elevator to the top floor of the building. The Warden stopped in front of a large empty cell, "A perfect new home for your friends, no?" He asked.
"It'll do," Za'aurk responded. "Put them in," He ordered the legionaries. They pushed Caiatl and Satuur into the cell with their weapons to their backs. The cell door slammed shut behind them, "Valus. The shield generator." Urlgor nodded. He sat the shield generator down and pressed a few buttons on it. The generator activated and started floating in place and produced an orange shield that covered the front of the cell.
"Impressive. We'll make sure to watch over them, vigilantly." Wrath assured Za'aurk.
"I'll be leaving some of my men here. Just as reinforcement." The remaining legionaries with Za'aurk all dispersed and took positions around the cell. "They are under your command now. Should an uprising take place, they'll listen to your every order." Wrath nodded. "Let us go." Za'aurk gestured for Khuun and Urlgor to follow him.
"But Primus. What of the human and her friends? Will we go after them too?" Khuun asked.
"We will cross that bridge when we get there. For the time being, we'll let the authorities here take care of them," Za'aurk responded. "Now move!" Khuun and Urlgor looked at each other, they could tell that they were both dissatisfied in some way, but stayed silent about it and simply followed the orders of their Primus.
The Hexsquad arrived at the Owl House. They all walked inside, laying down on different parts of the living room. Eda walked in on them, "Woah, you all smell, and look like death. So, how'd it go?" She asked.
"We won," Luz responded. "Well, not really."
"What do you mean, kid?" Eda asked.
"Okay, we defeated their champions. We agreed that if they lost, then they'd have to leave the Demon Realm forever. But surprise, surprise, they went back on that and turned on us. And to rub salt in the wound, they took Caiatl with them." Luz answered.
"Caiatl? The big girl? They took her? I thought she was one of the best fighters around. How'd they get her?" Eda asked.
"They took us by surprise. We would have helped her, but she wanted us to run for our safety." Luz told Eda. "I just hope she's okay."
"Kid, she fought about twenty of those losers alone and only started to get overwhelmed when more of them arrived. I'm sure she'll be alright." Eda told Luz, who had a single tear run down her face.
"But what if they have her locked up somewhere. Or Titan forbid, she's dead?" Luz asked, trying not to cry.
"Hey, don't talk like that. Keep your chin up. Today, you all just learned you can take these guys on with magic. It's only just a start, but now we know they don't know a Slitherbeast's butt about magic and how to overcome it." Eda reassured Luz. She pointed to all the others, "That goes for all of you. If you defeated some of their own champions, then think about what you can do to the rest of em'! Not even to mention the rest of the witches on the Isles. They got nothin' on any of us, ya hear? And the same goes for those Emperor's Coven chumps too." Eda noticed Hunter and pointed to him, "No offense, blondie." Eda continued, "You get what I'm sayin' kids?"
Luz wiped the tears off her face, "Yeah, we get it. We can't let some big aliens with guns stop us. That's all that they are. And we're witches! And witches always get the job done!"
"Now if she's really still out there, then you gotta look for her. I'll even help you. We can look around town and stuff tomorrow." Eda told Luz.
King came running in also, "I was asleep! But I heard something about help so I came running! So whatever it is, I'm also in!" The little demon exclaimed.
"Yeah, Luz. We're with you all the way!" Willow said. "Right, Hunter?"
"Y-yeah." He said awkwardly. "I'd love to help you guys but I shouldn't be here." Hunter got up and walked to the door. "I need to get back to the castle." He was then stopped by Luz, who grabbed onto his shoulder.
"Hunter. It's okay to let go of what someone else wants you to be. If you ever need some butt-kicking friends to get you out of the clutches of Belos, you know who to come to." Luz told him reassuringly.
"I- thank you." Hunter smiled at her and walked out the door.
"I don't know the kid very well, but I'm sure he has a good heart. He'll come around soon. When Belos reveals his real ugly side, that is." Eda said to Luz.
"Yeah, I hope so." Luz responded.
Hours after departing from Latissa, Qexal and Ilzat made it back to the Uncharted Island. They led their prisoners, now turned subjects off the barge, and walked them to Calus.
"Qexal, Ilzat. You've come back, and with more subjects than I expected. You never fail to outdo yourselves every time!" Calus commended. "Collector! Our experiment is ready to commence."
The Collector's shadow suddenly appeared out of thin air. "Ya got some witches to test on?!"
"To test on?!" One of the hooded figures yelled worriedly.
"Yeah! What's going on here?!" The other yelled.
"Why, your power is going to be put to good use. A spell that dates back hundreds of years, small scale, meant to kill your people. At least that is what I am told. I believe there is more than just a death penalty attached to such a powerful spell. I intend to find out just what its limits are." Calus explained to his subjects. "Qexal, Ilzat. Show me their arms." Suddenly, the magic restraining the two dispersed. Their arms were forcefully extended by the two Psions, revealing their coven sigils. The two witches were of the Plant and Oracle Covens. "Collector, I must thank you for showing me such a spell." Calus prepared himself to start the spell.
"Reach deep into your mind, buddy. You need to see what you want." Collector told Calus as he floated around him.
Calus closed his eyes. In his mind, he envisioned himself using magic for his own purpose, to fulfill his own goals. "I see it. The power, the strength. The reverence for myself. Newfound abilities to use, to conquer with." His eyes started to glow red, similar to his usual eye color. The coven sigils on the wrists of the witches started to glow, their veins started to glow the color of their sigils, and only spread quickly up their arm and through their bodies. "Psions, help me. Do whatever you can to enhance the spell."
"But wait! Calus, you could die!" Collector warned.
"I…can not…die! I…will not die!" Calus yelled defiantly. Qexal and Ilzat stood next to Calus, linking to his mind, enhancing the power of the spell. "Give me your magic." Calus commanded as the two witches fell to the ground, their bodies drained of any energy, they were left comatose. After the two fell, Calus took a knee on the ground to capture his breath, holding his stomach. He stood up to see some type of dust floating in the air in front of him. "What…is this?" He held his hand out in front of him, and the dust floated onto his hand, almost as if it was sentient. "Could it be?" The dust flew up into Calus's nostrils. As this happened, Calus felt like his insides were changing and churning. He was cold inside yet felt a searing pain. He could hear his heart stop for a second, and start again immediately after. He fell back to his knees, groaning in intense pain. Looking at his hands, his vision was blurry and he could barely control his body. "What is this pain?! It is agonizing!" He yelled, still groaning. Suddenly, he stopped groaning, he simply fell to his hands and stayed on all fours.
"Emperor?" Qexal asked.
"Calus? Buddy?" Collector also asked, worried.
Calus started laughing, he slowly got back on his two feet. "I…" Calus looked at his hands once more. "I feel…rejuvenated. Like I was born anew." He could feel like something was tingling throughout his body, sending chills down his spine. A single, tiny Egregore stalk grew out of his hand. He was surprised, but he was more elated. "Egregore? Not the natural fauna? Could it be that the link I made with the Egregore has affected my abilities?" Calus summoned another Egregore stalk, this time out of the ground. "The Egregore here has festered for so long since my imprisonment. Perhaps it has attached itself to the island. Or even the entire realm?" Calus suddenly caught glimpses of the Loyalist base back at the Boiling Isles. He grabbed the top of his head, as he felt a headache after the visions, "That must be the power of the other witch. Something that I will have to get used to." Calus turned back toward the others, "I can not thank you all enough for helping me with this. I have finally realized power beyond any Cabal."
"Aw, it was no problem buddy." Collector responded.
"My lord, how do you feel?" Ilzat asked.
"How do I feel?" Calus laughed heavily. "My dear friend. I am joyful, euphoric. Full of emotions that I have never felt before!" Tendrils of Egregore grew out of the ground as Calus cheered, "I am the first magic-wielding Cabal! I am finally the god I was born to be!"
And that's the end. I am rather satisfied with this one, I had fun writing this chapter. Would have liked to extend it further, but I wanted to finish it before Guardian Games dropped. To be truthful, I struggled trying to figure out how I'd explain Calus actually taking control of the magic, but this is Owl House and Destiny combined, literally anything could happen and make sense. At least I think so. I hope this chapter was enjoyable to read. See y'all next chapter.