The night had gone by in a flash and the next morning, everyone had woken up bright and early. Magnus' idea had worked like a charm, everyone now energized, or at least.. Almost everyone. As the group began to part from the Temple, Mini offered she should stay behind, wanting to save any more survivors. Her old friends were against this but after some convincing, they eventually agreed.
The rest bid her farewell and told her to be careful, for the WitherStorm was still a massive issue. Luckily they weren't attacked last night so it might be farther from them than Ellegaard must've guessed. Nothingness, it was a huge sigh in relief that for at least a couple hours, they won't have to deal with the monstrous beast.
"Ahhh, nothing like a good night's sleep to do the body right," Magnus boomed, stretching as he went. "I'm ready to do some BLASTIN' today."
"Heh, wish I felt as good as you sound. I'm still feeling a little under the weather," Petra said. Jesse felt his eyes spark in concern as he glanced over at her, noticing how pale and weary she looked.
He then shifted his attention from the redhead, to his youngest sister. He hoped to fix at least something between them. He had given her enough space and since she was looking better than she did the previous day, he decided to give it a shot. "Hey, Nikki.." he greeted, Nikki giving him a skeptical look in return. "How you're feeling?"
"Fine, I guess," Nikki shrugged.
"Right. And about what happened yesterday, I-.. I'm sorry. Look, I'm just a little stressed out, okay?" Jesse admitted. "I know you and Jess were only trying to help but you have to understand that things aren't the same anymore. I don't want to lose you. Any of you."
"I'm.. sorry too," she sighed. "But Jesse, you have to let me show that I could help! I really can. You just.. gotta believe in me."
Jesse didn't know how to answer, but not wanting to hurt his younger sister's feelings, he went along with it. "..of course I believe in you. But in the future, please don't run off, okay? And no more hiding things. I had the same conversation with Jess last night and she agreed."
"We'll see," Nikki simply shrugged. Jesse frowned in response but he decided not to bring the topic up any further, starting to focus on leading the group. As Nikki moved on, she suddenly felt a nudge on her arm and glancing to see who it was, she spotted Maggie now next to her.
The griefer gave her a mischievous smirk as she glanced up at her new friend. "Mornin' cutie," she said casually. "You're feeling better from our little sleepover?"
Nikki felt her face fluster slightly from the little nickname but she ignored it as she gave her a wide grin. "You could say that," she replied. "I'm just scared of what happens in the future though. I just hope that creepy thing doesn't catch up to us."
"Right? One moment everything's up in the clouds, and then the next.. It's all underwater. Not literally," Maggie agreed, shivering in fright from the traumatizing things she witnessed from the storm.
Nikki noticed how nervous she looked and aiming to cheer her up, she wrapped her arm around her. "Oh Mags, don't worry. We'll take that thing down soon," she consoled. "Besides, it'll be our chance to REALLY prove our worth, right?"
Maggie's expression brightened before she gave her new friend a playfully smirk. "Can't wait to show them how AWESOME we could be," she beamed before she gave her a concerned look. "Are you sure you're feeling alright, though-? You seemed really down last night."
"I'll be okay. Thanks for being with me though," Nikki assured her. "Maggie, I-.." she felt her face warm up slightly. "It means a lot."
Maggie felt her heart flutter at this but she tried her best not to pay attention to it as she nudged her friend playfully. "Happy to help. Y'know, you could always talk to me, mi amigo."
Magnus had been watching the two talk nearby and although he wasn't the overprotective brother type- at least not in THAT way, he was unsure of Maggie's and Nikki's blossoming friendship. Of course, he was happy for his sister but it still kinda bugged him a little. He then remembered how he totally lashed out last night, taking some things out on Nikki even though she was only trying to help. Since his sister was already growing close to her, he decided that it'll be best to make things right with the young girl.
"Howdy, pipsqueak!" He greeted causally, ruffling his sister's hair playfully before glancing over at Nikki. "Nikki, right?"
Nikki frowned, nodding in response as she shifted her attention forwards. She kept his opinion of her in mind and wondered what he was going to say.
"I'm-.. sorry for what I said about you back there," the rogue apologized. Nikki was surprised, glancing at him with wide eyes as he went on. "I was just frustrated because of Ellie and the WitherStorm and I just completely lost it back there."
"I can't say I forgive you yet. But it's a start," Nikki replied, though she tried to hide her delighted expression that Maggie actually kept her promise and talked things out with her brother.
"Still waiting for the day you give me the story," Maggie huffed, referring to how she's curious to what her brother is hiding about his past relationship with Magnus and Ellegaard.
"Mags, not now," Magnus huffed before shifting his attention back onto Nikki. "Kid, I gotta say. Thanks for coming to BoomTown and saving us back there."
"See, Magnus? She's special. To me at least," Maggie commented and although she was mainly teasing, Nikki couldn't help but to feel her heart flutter.
"Mags, do you mind going ahead to keep a lookout?"
Maggie frowned slightly, knowing her brother only wanted away so he could talk to Nikki in private but she didn't protest, doing as her brother said and leaving the two alone. Once she was gone, Magnus focused his attention back on Nikki. "I see you've been getting all buddy-buddy with my sis, huh?" He said.
"Wh-What-? Oh yeah, Maggie and I? We're only really friends, but she sure is something special," Nikki admitted, playing with her hair nervously. Her cheeks were tinted red though she tried her best not to show it.
"Righteous. It feels nice to see Maggie talking to other people freely. She doesn't get that often back home."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, BoomTown isn't the friendliest place? People are always looking for something to take advantage of and when you're constantly having to watch your back while also taking care of a little sister, you end up having to do a lot of.. stuff just to keep them safe. I want Mags to go out and be herself but I also don't want her to get hurt. You.. probably won't understand."
Nikki felt a wave of sympathy wash over her as she remembered Maggie's words earlier: how she's constantly sneaking out because she's tired of always staying indoors and how she just wants to be herself. She felt bad for the two siblings and this even helped humanize Magnus a little more for her now. He wasn't just a famous hero, he's also an older brother.
She then thought about the argument she and Jesse had last night and how Jesse made decisions she didn't like but only did out of love: to keep her safe. She then started to feel guilty for not understanding before; only thinking about how she felt instead of trying to see things through her brother's POV. She imagined how much she and Jess must've given him a hard time and thought that there could be a way to fix this issue.
"No, I-.. understand that. You just want to keep her safe. And I respect that," she said before giving the rogue an assuring smile. "I'm glad you have faith in me now. You guys are part of our team now, got it?"
Magnus ruffled her hair playfully. "Glad to be part of the group," he grinned. "Oh! By the way, if you need my blessing, you have my permission."
Nikki's eyes widened in surprise by this. "What-?"
"Nothing," he giggled.
Ellegaard glanced at the two talking, frowning slightly. It's not that she hates Magnus, but he does get on her nerves. But at the same time, she couldn't help but to feel sad that the blossoming relationship they once had had gotten to shambles. Not that she'll ever admit it though. As she went, she noticed Jess nearby and since she had nothing better to do, she made her way over to her.
"Jess, right?" She said.
Jess had been caught by surprise by her sudden greeting but nothingness gave her a welcoming smile. "Oh. Hello," she replied.
"I'm sorry if I seemed a little.. hostile before when we were talking about Magnus. Not the best way to get acquainted," Ellegaard apologized. "He makes me a little crazy." Jess glanced at Magnus as she continued. "He's just.. A little nuts? Destructive? Egotistical?"
"I think he's cool," Jess replied. "He could be weird at times but I don't see anything wrong with him. Maggie's pretty cute too."
"Maggie? Yeah, she's my favorite," the engineer admitted, a small smile appearing on her face.
"I think you're pretty cool too, Ellegaard," Jess then assured her.
The engineer felt flattered by the comment. "Thank you. But why didn't you come with your brother to come get me?"
"Well, it's- a long story. If I had the chance, I would've come but Jesse made us stay back to help fortify the place until you guys come back."
"And instead, you got Magnus?"
"No, we helped Lukas and Mini fortify the place first and when Mini gave us her amulet, we used it find Magnus. We did it to save time. We didn't know how long Jesse would be gone and we didn't want to take any chances."
"Interesting. Slight tangent - What's the, ah, 'deal' with your friend, Olivia? I appreciate her enthusiasm, but she can be a little.. much sometimes? She's always very eager to jump in and help. Which is sweet, of course, though sometimes I wish she would think a bit more before jumping in."
Jess frowned. She glared at the engineer, shocked that she would talk so poorly about her friend. "Olivia's one of my best friends. She's smart and always has a plan," she huffed. "Please don't talk bad about her. She was always there for me. Besides, I don't know if you caught this, but she's, like, your biggest fan. You probably just make her nervous."
"..That's an excellent point. Hadn't thought about that," Ellegaard admitted, now starting to feel some remorse as she remembered how she treated her back in Redstonia. "Seems like you respect her a lot."
"Uh-huh. And I expect you to respect her too."
"Right. My apologies then," Ellegaard replied, now seeming surprised by her response before she sighed, a sad expression now playing across her face. "I didn't mean anything by it. I'm just.. stressed. And taking care of a kid while.. dealing with all this. It's definitely not the best situation to be in. I know Chris and I aren't close but.. I'm trying my best. I hope you can understand."
Jess glanced at Chris walking further behind them, frowning slightly as a wave of sympathy washed over her. Before, she was ticked off how Ellegaard judged her best friend but now, she couldn't help but to feel bad for her now. As she continued looking at him, Lukas nearby caught her attention, tossing a bow and arrow over to her. She was surprised by this but gave him a warm smile.
"Thanks man," she said. The blonde simply nodded in response, glad he was able to help.
"Keep moving, people!" Jesse called, leading the group forward. He sensed they were near and his predictions were correct when he noticed Soren's fortress now dead ahead of them. Magnus glanced at him, not at all noticing him until just now. Curious, he quickened his pace to catch up with him.
"Yo. We haven't really gotten the chance to chat yet," he greeted casually.
Jesse shifted his gaze towards him, feeling kinda awkward though he managed to keep a calm demeanor. "Oh. Hello," he replied.
"I hear you saved your friend back there from this WitherStorm thing. You're pretty tough, huh?" Magnus said. "A regular Iron Golem, huh? Leaving the creepers quacking in their boots?"
"I'm just doing my best to keep everyone safe," Jesse shrugged though when he noticed Petra nearby, a concerned expression played across his face.
"Humility. Nice. I can dig it. Anyway. Thanks for having my back before. I do appreciate it."
"I just figured we needed some rest so we could use some of that energy for when we find Soren."
"Right. So you're Ellie's 'protege.' She's a piece of work, isn't she?" Magnus said, now sounding annoyed. "Always thinking about all her Redstone stuff.. Always trying to show off how smart she is.."
"I gotta ask - What's up with you guys? Why do you fight so much?"
"..Ahhh.. I don't know. I don't know. We've been in too many tight situations together and we've just never gotten along. Different strokes and all that, y'know?" Magnus answered before curiosity took the better of him. "How you liking being the leader of this little pack? I know I haven't been here long, but even I can tell there's some unrest in the ranks."
Jesse was flattered at being called the head of the team, but it made him feel more stressed. "It's been really hard.. When people get fighting, when tough decisions have to be made.." he admitted.
"Ha. Exactly why I never wanted to be a leader. Always preferred the whole 'rogue' thing," he beamed before glancing over at Axel, the big guy giving him a wave. The two glanced back at him and waved back before Magnus shifted his attention back onto Jesse. "What's the deal with your buddy, Axel? Can't tell he's awesome.. or a little bit of a dork. He's just a little, ah, doofy? Y'know? He's like a little puppy.. You don't know whether to hug it.. or just walk away. Know what I'm talking about?"
Jesse frowned. Although Magnus was at least cutting him some slack, he didn't like how he was talking down on his friend. Axel was his longest and closest friend and he wasn't going to let anyone, no matter how famous they are, push him around.
"I don't know if you heard a thing called 'friendship' lately, but Axel's one of my best friends," he huffed. "Don't talk shit about him behind his back because if you have something to say, say it to his face. He's been through enough already and I don't want to put more weight on his shoulders."
Magnus was surprised by his response and normally, he would've retorted but held himself back to avoid causing any conflict. "Interesting. Very interesting. Then why didn't you listen to his plan to come get ME? Was I just now.. your cup of tea? Or.. didn't think you could handle it?"
"I figured that we needed brains to fight the WitherStorm.. And brains means Ellegaard."
"Yeah.. I've never heard that a lot. I'll try not to let it hurt my feelings too much," Magnus frowned. "Well. Just keep on your toes." As soon as he left, Axel went up to Jesse, giving him a relieved and thankful expression.
"I heard what you said back there when Magnus was talking about me. Thanks dude," he smiled. Jesse returned the grin, giving him a comforting expression but before he could answer, they heard a loud familiar growl in the distance.
• Wither Again! •
The team quickly whipped their heads around, their eyes widening in horror as their eyes landed on the WitherStorm raging in the far distance. "This is exactly what I was afraid of," Ellegaard fretted. "It caught up with us."
"Shit. I didn't think it would come this fast," Magnus huffed.
"No.." Petra quavered, her body trembling as her eyes landed on the beast before her. "Not this again.."
Lukas heard a hiss sounding from behind him and whipping his head around, he spotted a creeper heading right for him, but it didn't look like an ordinary creeper. It was black and purple in color and looked more dangerous than the ordinary creeper. Before it drew closer, Jess leaped in front of him and lashed the monster with her sword, the creeper flying into a nearby tree where it exploded. The explosion left a massive dent and it even looked bigger than the explosion of a charged creeper.
Jess was stunned but was left speechless when she noticed the damage it had done to her sword. Before, it was in good condition but now it looks as though it's about to break.
"We have to go!" She gasped. "These aren't normal creepers!"
She didn't have to say it twice as the team bolted forward. More creatures spawned as the sun was blocked and what was most frightening about them was that they were all black and purple in color with glowing purple eyes. As they ran, Nikki met the terrifying gaze of one of the spiders, its glistening purple eyes freaking her out.
"What the fuck-?!" She cried. "They're like- wither monsters or something!"
"Language!" Jesse huffed.
"I think these were the monsters Mini told me about the other day," Lukas said. "She said about them being witherified? And that they're stronger and smarter or something!"
"The WitherStorm probably spawned them," Ellegaard theorized.
"I don't care what they are," Jesse scowled. "I just want to get away from them!"
"I'm getting VERY tired of this WitherStorm," Chris complained.
"Agreed," Olivia panted.
"Not again.. Not again.." Petra muttered repeatedly under her breath, breathing in and out as she tried to get air back into her lungs.
"Yeah, how about that plan of using mountains of TNT against that thing, Magnus?" Maggie commented, Magnus giving her the stink eye in return.
"Soren's isn't much farther! We can make it!" Lukas encouraged.
Jess heard a loud screech sounding above them and despite her instincts telling her not to, she glanced up at the sky, spotting multiple phantoms flying around in the sky. But that was impossible! Phantoms only spawn for those who have insomnia. Unless one of the members in their team has insomnia then things have gone from bad to worse.
"Zephyr! Are we almost there?" She called to the bat, who was flying above them. Zephyr squeaked urgently, flying around her before alerting that they were indeed drawing closer to the fortress. At least there's some good news. She was now suddenly grateful that Jesse allowed them to rest back at the Temple, knowing that if everyone's tired, they wouldn't have a high chance of escaping.
Once they arrived at their destination, the team climbed up the rocky steps until finally, they made their way through the doors and stepped inside the temple and into safety. Everyone was mesmerized by the beautiful and complicated scenery. They were now in a tunnel that led them to a quartz staircase. While everyone else was impressed, Jesse simply sighed in relief. He was just glad they were able to relax a little and catch their breath after all that running.
"Soren really lived down here?" Maggie mused. "So far from.. anyone."
"Enchanting, isn't it?" Ellegaard sighed.
As they spoke, Petra began to cough. Jesse glanced back at her in concern, his worry for her beginning to rise. Now he was more relaxed, he noticed how.. unhealthy she looked. Her skin was paler than normal and even looked weaker as she held her right arm. Petra noticed him staring and only gave him an uncomfortable look in return before going on and acting as though nothing happened.
The gang climbed the staircase, spotting long large pillars with flat tops scattered around. There wasn't any bridge or way to get across safely so the only way was to hop across on them. While it SEEMED simple, there was a chance they would slip and fall into the depths below. It wasn't enough to kill them but it would be impossible to come back out.. if they can that is.
"Yeah and I'm reeeeally not feeling those columns.." Chris gulped. Magnus ignored him, leaping onto one of them safely.
"Aw come on! It's fine! Look!" He alerted them. Eager to follow his idol, Axel leaped after him and onto the same pillar which signaled everyone to follow across as well. One by one, the team leaped from the edge and onto the pillars.
Before she went, Maggie went by Nikki and nudged her shoulder playfully. "Y'know the best advice I could give for stuff like this? Don't look down," she encouraged. "After you?"
Nikki felt her cheeks warm up slightly, giving her a small smirk. "What's wrong? Scared?" She teased.
"Me? I laugh in the face of danger!"
With that, the two went forward. Once she was on the first pillar, Zephyr flew above her as she shifted her gaze towards her siblings. "C'mon!" She called. "Just don't fall!"
Jesse was still put off by their only way across but took her word for it, following after her and trying his best not to focus on the depths below. Jess was just about to leap forward as well, but when she noticed Reuben trembling and staring up at her nervously, she rubbed his back to try and ease his nerves.
"You heard what Nikki said. Just.. don't fall, okay?" She said. That was the best advice she could give at the moment before leaping onto the first pillar, making it across safely. She then peaked down, feeling her stomach drop when she noticed how far the fall was. "Oh.. that is deep. That is very, very deep."
With that, she ventured on. Just as she was on the last remaining pillars, she heard Reuben oinking for her, sounding alarmed and distressed. Wondering what was the matter, she shifted her gaze towards him and saw that Reuben was off the edge, barely able to pull himself up. Jess' eyes widened in alarm and acting fast, she hopped her way towards him.
"Hang on! I'm coming!" She assured him. She tried her best to pull him up but luck was no longer on her side and the two came plummeting onto the ground.
"Oh dear. What happened?" Nikki called down.
"What do you think happened?" Jess retorted. "I fell!"
"I know! I meant how you fell, dingus!"
"Reuben slipped and I tried to help him. And then the next thing we know, we're down here."
Jesse trotted next to Nikki, a concerned expression sitting on his face. Nikki glanced up at him, hoping he'll know how to help their sister. "What do we do?" She asked.
"Jess, stay put. We'll find a way down to you! Eventually," Jesse promised before he turned and disappeared out of sight, Nikki having no choice but to follow.
"Wait! What do you mean 'eventually?' Jesse?! Nikki?! HEY!" Jess called but was left with no response. She huffed but her frustration quickly vanished as her eyes landed on tall dark beings with glowing purple eyes. She ducked behind a clay patch, trying her best to keep calm. "Oh, man. We've got Endermen."
Reuben oinked in alarm, running off as suddenly, they heard someone scream, a familiar blonde landing in front of her in a cripple heap. At first she was confused but when she recognized him, her eyes widened in surprise.
"Lukas-? What are you doing here?" She asked, helping him up onto his feet.
"I heard your voice and thought I would come down to help," Lukas explained sheepishly before noticing the dark beings nearby. He gulped, realizing the danger they were in now. "Endermen."
"There are so many. I didn't think they ever came in groups that big," Jess fretted before she gave the blonde a small grin. "Thanks for coming back, Lukas. I mean that."
Lukas felt his heart flutter from the gesture. He has always felt nervous around Jess a couple times but he never understood why. Sure, she trusts him completely but he felt like something was going on. Something.. he doesn't know or wasn't educated in. He didn't even notice he was dozing off until Jess spoke once more.
"How's that? I think Reuben is trying to get our attention," she said, hearing the little pig oink urgently nearby. She slowly turned her head towards the direction of the oinking, only to be met face-to-face by an Enderman. She and Lukas both screamed in alarm, Lukas bolting off immediately as many of the Enderman began ganging up on Jess.
She tried her best to hold off their advances, holding her weathered-down sword in defense but the Endermen wouldn't back away. She began to panic, stepping backwards and dodging the incoming hits from the Endermen. Right when she thought it was all over, she fell over the edge and plummeted into a canal, safely away from the raging Endermen.
She gasped for air to avoid water getting into her lungs, coughing out the water that did manage to sneak its way inside. She heard the annoyed growls from the Endermen and felt relieved that she was able to escape unharmed. As the river pushed her forward, she was fortunate enough to pass Lukas diving into the waters to avoid the Endermen from reaching him. The two shared glances before Jess noticed Reuben nervously waiting nearby.
"Reuben! Jump!" She ordered. The piglet followed her orders and joined them into the waters. As they were whisked away, Jess couldn't help but to giggle when she noticed how ridiculous he looked which differed from his.. perfect look. Lukas in return gave her a confused expression, wondering what was so funny.
Eventually, they heard a rushing sound. Jess was confused, looking ahead and spotting a waterfall dead ahead of them. It was too late to do anything at this point. They had to go down it. Jess and Lukas gripped on each other in panic, wrapping their arms around each other as Reuben stayed in between them.
They screamed as they fell out of the waterfall but when they found themselves on the bottom, they parted in embarrassment, both looking red in the face. Without a word, they swam towards solid ground, where they assumed everyone else was already. It was probably obvious too because of the loud argument they were having. It was hard for them to understand what they were saying exactly with water clogging their ears.
"Oh be quiet, it's just a pointless building," Magnus roared. "That's all I'm saying. I mean, just look at-."
"Magnus, if an artist painted inside of your mind, he'd end up with the most extraordinary desertscape paintings," Ellegaard snapped before turning her heel. "That's it! I'm going. Once again it falls to me to take care of everything. I'll find this 'Super TNT' myself!"
"Oh no no no! You do NOT be the one who walks away," Magnus scowled before he stormed in the opposite direction Ellegaard took. "That's it! I'm going. See! I'm walking away too now. 'Super TNT,' here I come!"
"It's hard to pick 'glass half full' when they keep kicking the glass over," Olivia commented as soon as the two were gone. "Hell, the glass is probably shattered at this point."
"They've definitely got issues to work through," Jesse agreed. "But hopefully they'll work things out and get on with the important stuff."
"What are we gonna do now? Where should we go?" Olivia inquired.
"Let's figure it out.." Nikki answered. As soon as the team started to split, she approached her older sister. "Hey Jess-? I'm glad you got out safe. We were going to go back again-."
"Don't worry about it. I'll be fine," Jess assured her though she couldn't help but to chuckle as her eyes landed on Lukas scanning around the room in delight. "This place is a dream come true for Lukas. Look at him! He's loving it. I'm glad he's able to be himself more."
Nikki glanced at the blonde skeptically before crossing her arms. "Uh-huh.. anyways, am I the only one who's having so many thoughts at once?" She wondered. "I mean, The WitherStorm, meeting the Order, saving the world - how could it happen to us? Why us? Why now?"
Jess processed the question for a moment before answering. "I don't know. But we'll make it through this," she assured her. "Man, y'know what Velvet would say or do if he was here?"
"Pfft! He would've probably been annoyed the entire time and be making endless remarks about what we've seen so far. Especially about Magnus and Ellegaard fighting a lot," Nikki giggled. "He would probably be comparing it to expectations vs realities. He always knew a little humor. We need that now after all the seriousness and drama, y'know what I mean?"
"Yeah! Ohh my god I miss him so much. At least we know he's still safe though.. I hope.." Jess frowned, trying not to let the endless possibilities hit her. She glanced over at Maggie and Chris having a conversation nearby and couldn't help but to raise a brow in curiosity. "I find it weird how Magnus and Ellegaard can't even be in the same room without bickering but Chris and Maggie are completely chill with each other. At least it's a relief to see them get along."
"Cool. I'll go talk to them. Y'know, just in case they know something about Soren," Nikki said. "You talk to Jesse about Petra. I think something's not right with her. Might have to check up on her."
Jess at first was confused but when she noticed how she was holding her arm while looking extremely pale, her concern for her began to rise. "She doesn't look so good.." she murmured.
"Yeah. I noticed. I wonder if Jesse noticed too."
"I'll go see.."
With that, the sisters splitted up, Jess heading over to their older brother as Nikki approached Maggie and Chris. The two ended their conversation when they noticed her, Maggie giving her a welcoming grin.
"Wassup, Nikki!" She greeted causally. "Here to spill a plan you have going for?"
"No, actually I was just about to ask you both something," Nikki replied.
"Continue?" Chris said, wondering what she wanted to know.
"Well, I don't mean to sound nosy or anything, but where do you think we'll find Soren?" Nikki inquired. "And how's he like? You think he'll help us?"
"That is a little hard to answer.." Maggie chuckled nervously.
"What do you mean?"
"Well, for starters, Soren could be found anywhere. He's definitely not your advantage guy. Wherever he is, it's some place we'll likely least expect," Chris answered. "And if he'll actually help us is.. difficult to know as well. He's always been secretive."
"I get scientists and smart people are like, secretive and reticent all the time but he's so secretive we don't actually know much about him. I don't think either of us has seen him often," Maggie added. "But I remember he's weird. Not actually the bad kind of weird but.. weird. I don't even know what to label it."
"..I'll keep that in mind," Nikki murmured. "I'm sure you're both a little.. shaken up, especially after Magnus and Ellegaard just stormed out like that."
"Pfft don't worry about us! We'll be fine," Maggie assured her. "They'll come around eventually. Right, Chris?"
She nudged her friend playfully, Chris giving her a skeptical look before agreeing. "Yeah, sure.." he murmured.
"Great. If you guys need anything, be free to say something, alright?" Nikki said. "I'd hate to worry about you."
"I like your energy, Nikki. If any of us need anything, we'll shout," Maggie grinned. Nikki felt her heart flutter by the compliment but she didn't have time to think about it as Jesse spoke, alerting their attention.
"Guys! Over here," he called, standing in front of the tunnel Ellegaard went through. The group gathered around him, prepared to take their leave and continue on with their adventure.
"Let's go, Chrissy!" Maggie beamed, following the others as well but froze when she noticed the smug look Chris had on his face. She raised a brow, confused. "What-?"
"Nothing. Let's just go on, like you said," Chris replied before going on. Maggie was even more confused but she shrugged it off as she followed him. Jesse was just about to step into the hallway when Petra tapped him on his shoulder. He glanced at her, giving her a concerned expression.
"Petra? Are you okay?" He asked.
Petra glanced away from him, a guilty expression visible on her face before she spoke. "I'm sorry. I don't mean to worry you," she said. She felt sweat trinke down her forehead as she felt everyone's gaze burning on her. "I've just got something I want to discuss with you in private."
Jesse understood before glancing back at their friends. "Right. Uh, let's split up," he said. "We'll catch up with you guys later."
Although everyone was curious to what Petra wanted to discuss with Jesse privately, they respected her wishes and ventured to wander down the hallway Magnus went down instead. All except Nikki and Jess, who both shared worried glances until Jesse spoke again.
"Jess? Nikki? You mind leading the others for me while Petra and I talk?" He said.
"No. Whatever Petra has to say, she could say it to all three of us," Jess denied.
"Please, Jess? This is important. I just-.. I gotta see Jesse in private," Petra pleaded. Nikki didn't know how to answer so she simply glanced at her sister, seeing what she had to say.
"What's so important that you can't just tell all of us?" Jess frowned before glancing at her older brother. "Jesse, I thought we promised not to keep any more secrets."
Jesse didn't know what to do. Of course he wanted to keep the promise he made with his sisters, but at the same time, he didn't want to upset Petra either. After a moment, he had made his decision but felt guilty just by seeing the upset expressions his sisters gave him.
"I'm sorry, but if Petra needs to talk to me alone then I have to respect her wishes," Jesse sighed. "You both go join the others, alright? We won't be long."
Jess' eyes widened in surprise at his decision. Just before, he seemed considerate towards them and seemed like he really wanted to change how things were. But now he was now choosing Petra over them, his own family who he stayed with most of his life.
Of course she was happy that her brother was getting closer with Petra but now she couldn't help but to feel her blood boil at the fact that this growing relationship had led to Jesse breaking his promise of no longer hiding things and staying together.
Before she could protest however, the couple and Reuben had already gone away and disappeared down the tunnel. Nikki was just about to speak but froze when Jess huffed and began to trot into the hallway.
"Jess-? Where are you going?" She asked as she followed behind, trying to keep up with her sister's fast pace. Zephyr squeaked in alarm as well, flying behind his owner in order to keep up. "Jesse said-."
"I don't care what Jesse said. Secret or not, he's not going to switch up on me just like that," Jess scowled. Nikki flinched at the tone of her response. She didn't protest at all, only because she didn't want to further anger her. Besides, she didn't want to be part of any arguments or drama. Sure, she was upset with Jesse as well but she didn't expect for Jess to get so angered by it.
• Secrets..•
After a minute of walking, the sisters spotted the couple silently walking in front of them. They made sure to keep their distance and to stay quiet to avoid them hearing or spotting them and once they passed a corner, they pressed her backs onto the wall as Zephyr rested on Nikki's shoulder, listening in to what they were saying.
"Petra?" Jesse said.
"I feel bad about ditching everyone else. And adding more drama between you, Jess and Nikki, but I just wanted to talk to you about this alone," Petra apologized. "It's.. a little tough to talk about."
Jesse felt his heart drop as he tried to process what was going on. He was scared of what she was going to say, wondering if she wanted to say what he thought she's going to say or something completely different. Either way, he was ready to be there for her.
"Hey, whatever it is.. I trust you. You can tell me," Jesse assured her.
"Thanks for being so understanding," Petra sighed in relief, giving him a small smile. They rounded another corner, the sisters following behind them and listening in as the redhead went on. "You got me away from the WitherStorm.. But I'm worried that I didn't get away soon enough."
"What-?"
Petra rolled up her sleeve, revealing a purple marking on her arm with the skin around it being gray and pasty. Jesse almost felt himself panic as his eyes landed on the nasty mark though he managed to keep his composure.
"It showed up not too long before you saved me.." Petra revealed.
"What is that? What's wrong with your arm?" Jesse asked. Before he could get an answer, the couple heard a faint gasp. Almost immediately, Jesse drew out his sword, ready to defend his friend no matter what the cost was.
Jess glared at Nikki, who had her hands over her mouth with a guilty expression. "Sorry.." she whispered.
"Who was that?" Jesse scowled. "Who's there?!"
Without any other choices, the sisters both stepped out, both feeling awkward that they were caught. Jesse's eyes widened as he put his sword away, staring at them for a moment before speaking.
"Jess? Nikki?" He said. Before the two could speak, he retorted. "What are you both doing here? I told you to go with the others!"
"Yeah what a way to be a hypocrite, Jesse," Jess scoffed. "I wonder what ever happened to not keeping any secrets?"
"You don't have to be clingy all the time, Jess," Petra scowled. "And then drag Nikki into things she has no part of. I needed to talk to Jesse alone about this."
"So I'M the one being clingy?" Jess gasped in disbelief. "First of all, this is between me and Jesse. Do NOT butt in. Second of all, Jesse, I thought you said that we should trust each other more. Why are you suddenly switching up?"
"Jess, I'm trying my best okay?" Jesse tried to reason. "I-."
"No! You said something that we all agreed to and now suddenly all that is going to waste all because of one little thing? What's SO important that you can't trust Nikki and I with?" Jess fumed. "Yeah you two deserve each other alright."
Nikki didn't know how to answer so she just stood there uncomfortably watching her siblings argue. She always hated when her friends would butt heads but it was even worse with her family since she wasn't used to overhearing arguments, let alone witness one.
Jesse gazed at her before sighing and glancing at Petra. "Do you mind telling me while they're here?" He asked. "I hope it doesn't cause too much of a problem."
"..I'll try.." Petra sighed. "Do you know what Wither is?"
"The Wither?" Jess answered. "Of course. We've been-."
"No, Jess. Just 'wither,'" Petra interrupted. "Or 'Wither Sickness,' I guess. And.. I feel like it's just going to keep getting worse."
"Well we're going to go back and tell the others," Jesse said. "We can get help-."
"You can't tell anyone about this. This mission is about the Storm. Not me."
Nikki glanced over as the others spoke, noticing danger heading right for them. "Uh.. guys..?" She whimpered.
"Petra, I know I was pissed before but you're just as important as the WitherStorm," Jess protested.
"Jess' right. We can't leave you in this condition, Petra," Jesse agreed as he gently held her cheek. "Who knows what it could do?"
"Guys, there's a-." Nikki tried to warn but of course, they didn't hear her.
"I already told you. I'm not the priority in this mission; defeating the wither storm is," Petra denied. "You could worry about me when the storm is gone."
"Petra, no," Jesse replied. "I-."
"CREEPER!" Nikki cried, finally catching their attention but it was already much too late. The green beast exploded next to them, causing a large crater. Jess wasn't so lucky and ended up plummeting into the crater and onto her back but Jesse and Nikki managed to cling onto the edge. Nikki however couldn't keep her grip much longer and desperately tried to keep herself from falling but to no avail.
"Nikki, jump down!" Jess called to her younger sister, noticing how she was struggling to keep herself up. "I'll catch you!"
"Just-.. don't let me fall on the floor, okay?" Nikki whimpered before letting herself go. Jess caught her in her arms in time, holding her safely in her arms. Petra and Reuben, who both leaped away in time, ran to aid Jesse, the redhead holding out her hand.
"Grab my hand! I'll pull you up!" She offered. He grabbed it and tried to hoist himself up but he felt her muscles weaken and ended up plummeting into the pit. When he reached the ground, the amulet fell out of his pocket and rolled onto the floor. Petra's eyes widened in horror when she realized what she had done. "Jesse! I just couldn't-.." she stopped herself to fix her shaken tone. "I'm sorry!"
"Hey, you're the one that's sick!" Jesse assured her. "Take care of yourself first. I'll be okay."
Petra didn't want to leave the siblings behind but she didn't have much of a choice. "Okay.. I got this.." she sighed. "Stay safe. I'll find a way down to you." With that, she turned and left. Reuben oinked in sorrow, gazing down at his owners before following after her however Zephyr stayed, flying down to join the siblings.
Jesse frowned, hoping that they would be able to find a way out of this secret tunnel or better yet, find Ellegaard. He regretted separating from the others. He then focused on his sisters, hoping that they were okay. Jess seemed fine however Nikki looked like she was freaking out. It was dark, cold and small, all of the things she hated.
Nikki was claustrophobic and hated tight spaces or at least the walls weren't moving in on them or collapsing. "Funny how Soren needed such a small tunnel down here.." she whimpered, trying to mask her fear but failing miserably.
"Chill, sis. We'll find a way out of here soon," Jess comforted her. Zephyr squeaked, alerting their attention. He was holding the Amulet with his claws, the blue gem in the middle glowing brightly and providing enough light for them to make out around them. This comforted Nikki a little and without another word, the trio went on their way.
Jesse took the amulet from the little bat, allowing him to light the way better. As they moved, the amulet glowed brighter and brighter until they found themselves at the end of the hallway. Curious, they stepped closer and the doors opened revealing a large room with glowstone chandeliers.
"This is more like it," Nikki sighed in relief. "Not as low of a roof here. You think we'll find Soren here?" She then noticed that one of the walls of books was cracked open. Curious, she scampered over and peeked inside. "Guys? I think I found something!"
Her siblings followed her, entering a smaller room that resembled a library. They flinched when they noticed a dark figure scurrying across the room, digging into a bookshelf as they muttered to themselves.
"Uh, hello?" Jesse said, stepping closer to the mysterious person. The siblings expected it to be Soren, but were proven wrong when they turned around, revealing them to be no one other than Ivor.
• Ivor Again! •
"You!" Ivor snarled. "Trying to interfere with my plans again, I see."
"Yes, US!" Nikki scowled. "The same people who are going to put YOUR WitherStorm out of commission!"
"Yeah! We're here with the Order to find Soren's Super TNT," Jess added. "We're going to take down your WitherStorm."
"The Order? Believe me - that plan will blow up in their faces in more ways than one," Ivor scoffed. "They cannot help you. But me? I choose not to. Out of my way!"
"Sorry, Ivor. We-." Jesse started but Ivor pushed him out of the way and started heading for the entrance. Before he could go any further, a familiar redhead stopped him dead in his tracks as she held her golden sword in defense. Reuben stood next to her, oinking furiously at him.
"Oh, you're not going anywhere," Petra growled.
"Petra? You escaped?" Ivor huffed, almost looking surprised to see her. Petra was advancing on him and for a moment could've had him but made the mistake of driving him to a sword rack, where he picked up a golden sword of his own and the two began to duel.
"Foolish girl! I-."
"Shut up. I don't care what you have to say. I'm going to take you down."
"Kill him. Hurt him. Do anything. Just make sure he doesn't leave," Jesse ordered as he drew out his own sword. As the two fought, Jess and Nikki ran for the entrance, guarding it in case he tried to make a getaway. Jesse however crept behind Ivor, slashing him down onto the ground.
"I'm the only one who can stop the WitherStorm," Ivor declared as he pulled himself up. "Not you! Not the Order!"
Jess charged at him with her sword, but Ivor blocked it and the two were locked in a strength battle. "Don't make yourselves the villains in my story," he hissed, overpowering the young teen but before he could cut her in half, she stepped out of the way. Ivor kicked her over and was about to strike when Nikki stroked him in the back, sending him to the ground once more. He tried to stand but Jesse came from behind and struck him to the floor.
"You're not going anywhere, creep," Petra vowed.
Ivor regained his composure, seeing that he was completely surrounded by the five, including Zephyr and Reuben. "This all could have been avoided.." he huffed before lowering his sword and taking out a potion. "If you want to stop me, you'll have to catch me first." He then drank the liquid stored inside the bottle.
"Jesse, look out!" Nikki warned, charging forward to attack the brewer but the effects had already kicked in before she could make a blow and he raced around the room at top speed.
Instinctively, Petra and Jess raced the door, guarding it just in case. "You're not getting out of here that easy, Ivor," Petra said.
"I'm like the wind!" Ivor cackled before running at Jess with intentions to attack. She tried her best to hold him back but her luck had completely run out and her sword ended up breaking. Ivor took this opportunity and slashed her on her arm.
Jess yelped in pain as she held her arm, blood starting to pour out from her new wound before she was shoved to the ground. Before anyone could react, Ivor then charged at Petra. She managed to hold off his advances but it was obvious that she took a harsh blow.
"Out of my way!" Ivor hissed, throwing several blows that the poor redhead could barely block. "I'll cut through you if I have to!" As Nikki ran to aid their sister, Jesse leaped forward and shoved Ivor to the side so hard that he flew onto the ground and onto his face. He wasn't ready to go down however and stood as he wiped a little blood from his mouth.
"Don't tempt your fate," he advised darkly before charging at him, attempting to land hard blows but Jesse held him back every time until finally, he swung his sword at him and sent him towards the ground. Nikki helped Jess back onto her feet and although she was wounded, she still wanted to help stop the brewer from escaping.
As Jesse advanced on him, Ivor realized that the potion had completely worn off. "It didn't have to go this way, Jesse. You could've just let me go," he said, trying to reason with him but seeing this didn't work, he pulled out a splash potion. "Now you see me, now you-."
He didn't finish his sentence, disappearing out of sight. The team grouped up, all guarding the entrance as they held their swords. Jess had picked up another sword from the sword rack, holding up her sword as well as she tried her best to distract herself from her bleeding arm.
"He did this before in the Nether! When we escaped the WitherStorm the first time in Gabriel's fortress," Jess remembered. "It's one of his Invisibility Potions! He could be anywhere!"
"Vanish all you want, slimeball. You're still not going anywhere," Petra huffed. As she said this, Ivor chucked splash potions of harming at the group, which they were able to dodge with ease before they stopped abruptly.
"End of the rail, Ivor. We're not letting you get away with this," Nikki vowed. There came no answer. Just before anyone else could say anything, another splash potion flew through the air and was heading right for Petra.
"This one's on you, you puffed-up fool!" Ivor scowled. Acting fast, Jesse charged sideways, throwing the potion back at him. Ivor was caught by complete surprise so much that he was unable to dodge the attack, getting hit by his own potion.
He collapsed onto the ground in defeat, the potion weakening him greatly. "There's no time.. No time.." he panted. "This could have been avoided."
"Jesse! Petra! Jess! Nikki!" A familiar voice called followed by a loud squeak. The gang turned around to see Zephyr and Reuben shooting back at them with the rest of the team following behind.
"Even more of you?" Ivor said in an annoyed tone. "Will this endless parade of useless babblers never cease?"
"Ivor.." Maggie scowled immediately as soon as her eyes landed on the former Order member. "The jig is up!"
"Indeed. We're NOT going to let you get away with this," Chris added. "You've lost."
"Maggie. Chris. Didn't expect to see you both here," Ivor huffed.
"What's going on?" Olivia asked.
"We found Ivor. We stopped him," Jesse answered.
"Jesse, Jess and Nikki did anyway," Petra added.
"Wrong. You have nothing," Ivor said, standing back up straight as he began to step closer towards the group, holding a new splash potion, this being gray and pastel purple in color. "A query.. Have you ever seen the effects of a Splash Potion of Slowness?"
Chris' eyes widened, realizing what the potion was. "Everyone! Get out of the way!" He tried to warn but it was too late and Ivor threw the potion at their feet.
"What-." Jesse started as the effects kicked in. "Are. You. Talking. About?"
He then realized what Chris tried to say. Everything had gone in slow motion. Ivor simply walked past them, grinning triumphantly as the team tried and failed to go after him.
"You. Big. Jerk," Axel shouted.
"Get. Back. Here!" Petra cried but it was no use.
Ivor got to the door but before he left, he faced the gang one last time. "Magnus and Ellegaard may think they can stop me, that they can destroy the WitherStorm.." he swore, sending chills down Jesse's back. "But they are mistaken. And it will cost them their lives!" The doors then shut closed, leaving everyone trapped inside.
Next time on Minecraft: Story Mode Rewrite..
In a purist of answers, all our heroes found in Soren's Armory was deceit.. And treachery. Locked in a dark chamber deep in Soren's mountain, as the Order of the Stone rides off towards near-certain doom, our heroes must ask themselves..
Would they find a way out of this dark tomb? Is there any way to cure Petra's Wither Sickness? Would they find a way to defeat the WitherStorm?
Or will they remained trapped, as it continues its ravenous rampage across the entire world?
Only time will tell..
