A/N: Hello, readers. I have returned with a new chapter. I know the two chapters posted simultaneously have been overloading, but I'll post one at a time now. With that said, sit back and happy reading!

Update: this chapter has been reworked.

Disclaimer: Repeat after me: "I do not own Killer Instinct or Carrie."

The sky was deep indigo, scattered with wispy clouds drifting across the moon's path. The landscape below remained shrouded in shadows, except for the occasional starlight glimmer reflecting off a quiet stream and small settlements. Trees stood like silent sentinels, their silhouettes etched against the horizon.

In her giant bird form, Pemba continued her flight toward South America. As her exhaustion grew, she kept one eye closed while leaving the other open, scanning her surroundings. The rhythmic beating of her wings provided a steady cadence, comforting her.

Carrie, Jago, Maya, TJ, and Nikita had fallen asleep on her back. Their breaths synchronized with the gentle rise and fall of the shapeshifter's flight. Even in slumber, their grips were firm, trusting Pemba's guidance through the night.

Being a light sleeper, Orchid stirred at the slightest change in Pemba's wingbeats. She blinked awake, gazing over her slumbering friends and the nightscape below.

"Pems, are you okay?" the secret agent asked.

The shapeshifter glanced back and spoke her native tongue.

"Tired, but alright," the translation device in Orchid's ear said. "Also, my wings ache, but I'll manage."

Orchid nodded, her eyes soft with concern, before settling back down, her gaze still vigilant while watching their surroundings.

Next to the secret agent, Maya shifted in her sleep, murmuring something under her breath. Her brows furrowed under a troubling dream.

A black veil surrounded Maya at first until a blue light gleamed, forming a symbol. More lights exposed a chamber, and the odor of a decayed and bandaged body lying on a stone bed hit her nose. Small burning torches surrounded another altar with jars.

A man covered in tattered linen bandages stood before a circular inscription on the wall, chanting and waving his hands until a shimmering blue portal emerged.

Maya unsheathed her daggers, preparing for battle. "Kan-Ra!"

The decayed sorcerer turned toward the monster hunter, his eyes glowing with an eerie white light. "You cannot stop what has already begun." His voice echoed off the chamber walls.

Maya tightened her grip on her weapons, her heart pounding as she prepared to face this ancient evil.

Then, the portal roared as it changed from blue to red, grabbing their attention. The chamber trembled, and the air grew thick with dark energy. However, from Maya's perspective, Kan-Ra's face turned from glee to dread. Without warning, a demonic hand emerged, taking the struggling sorcerer to his doom. Soon after, two glaring eyes peered from the portal.

Maya sprinted, but the same hand pinned her to the floor. An image of a demon appeared, revealing its teeth.

"This world is mine to conquer," the demon declared, its voice deep. "Now, where is my child?"

Maya jolted awake, drenched in sweat, her heart racing. She glanced around, her eyes meeting Orchid's concerned gaze.

"Are you alright?" she asked.

The monster hunter nodded while her breathing slowed. "I saw Kan-Ra again, but something more frightening appeared."

"What did it want?"

"Something about a child. I think it was looking for someone - or something - connected to it."

Pemba spoke in her mother tongue.

"Are you referring to the Heir of Gargos?" the translator device interpreted Pemba's words.

"Heir of Gargos? Can you elaborate?" Orchid asked.

Through the translator, Pemba explained Carrie and Jago's encounter with an evil cult in Tibet and how she rescued them. She also mentioned her mother, who, along with other women, fell victim to the cult's sinister rituals long ago.

Orchid's eyes widened as she glanced at her sleeping half-brother and Carrie. "Pems, thank you for keeping them safe. Also, I'm sorry about your mother. She didn't deserve what those bastards did."

"So, they want Carrie to give birth to this child? By God, she's a child herself," Maya said.

"That's what it sounds like, giving us more reason to protect her," Orchid said. "I'll also talk to Jago about it when he wakes up. He knows more about this Gargos thing than anyone."

"What are you guys mumbling about?" a groaning voice said as TJ stirred, rubbing his eyes. "Did I miss something important?"

Orchid and Maya exchanged glances, debating whether to share this revelation.

"We'll fill you in later," the former said, unwilling to overwhelm him. "Sorry if we woke you up."

"Naw, it's fine. Besides, I need to piss. Is there somewhere to rest?" TJ asked.

"Let me check the map." Maya pulled out her handheld device and scanned the area. "Oh, we're about to enter the Sahara Desert. There's a small oasis nearby. We can stop there to rest and regroup."

The boxer groaned. "Wonderful. A pit stop in the middle of a desert."

"Look on the bright side," Orchid said. "There's no scorching sun yet."

"Also, are you okay explaining a giant bird to everyone?" Maya added.

TJ mused before clicking his tongue. "Good point. An oasis sounds better than a crowd of curious onlookers."

The oasis was a serene haven under the starlit sky, with tall palm trees casting gentle shadows on the sparkling water. The soft rustle of leaves and the occasional chirp of nocturnal creatures created a calming ambiance.

Upon the group's arrival in the Sahara Desert, Pemba remained in her bird form, resting her wings.

TJ wasted no time finding the nearest secluded spot to relieve himself, muttering about how nature's call doesn't wait for the ideal moment.

Meanwhile, Orchid and Maya inventoried their resources, ensuring they had enough for the next leg of the journey.

Carrie stirred first, her eyes fluttering open as she surveyed the strange surroundings. "Where are we?"

Jago and Nikita awoke after, stretching and blinking at the moonlit desert expanse.

"Oh, morning, although it's still nightfall," Orchid said. "We're in an oasis in the Sahara Desert. We're taking a break to prepare ourselves."

Jago nodded and headed toward a secluded area while Nikita grabbed a refreshing water canteen.

The latter sipped from the canteen and sighed. "How long until we move again?"

"About an hour or two." Maya glanced at the device. "We need to cover as much ground as possible before dawn."

TJ emerged from his makeshift bathroom, wiping his hands on his shorts. He then climbed on Pemba's back to rejoin the group. "Ah, much better. So, what's the plan after this?"

Maya studied the map on her device. "We'll continue southwest. At this pace, we should reach the Atlantic Ocean by sunrise. However, sandstorms may occur along the way."

"Sandstorms? Fuck." The boxer checked the horizon, expecting a sand wall. "Any ideas on how to avoid them?"

"We could adjust our route to follow ancient trade paths. It might add time to our journey, but it's safer than risking a direct collision with a sandstorm."

Carrie added another option. "Perhaps I could use my powers to shield ourselves from these storms. It would allow us to maintain our pace without detours."

"Have you done something like this before?" Nikita asked.

"No, but it doesn't mean I can't try," Carrie said. "If God helped Moses by splitting the Red Sea to guide his people to safety, I believe I can summon the strength to protect us from a sandstorm."

The group exchanged wary glances, weighing the risks and benefits of each option.

"What did I miss?" Jago returned from his restroom break, adjusting his attire.

"We're discussing sandstorms," Maya said. "Carrie thinks she can shield us with her powers, but we're also considering using ancient trade paths for safety."

The monk scratched his chin. "I think we should trust Carrie and give her a chance. It might be risky, but it could save us time. However, we should prepare to switch to trade paths if it doesn't work."

The group fell silent, pondering Jago's suggestion.

"I guess it's settled," Orchid said. "We'll let Carrie try her powers, but stay ready to reroute if needed."

Once the gang finished their thorough supply check, they signaled Pemba of their departure.

Pemba stood with everyone on her back, no longer feeling the strain on her wings. Like before, she started running before launching into the air. Her wings beat in rhythm with the steady wind, propelling them higher into the sky. As they soared above the dunes, the horizon appeared endless, a vast expanse of golden sand.

"Brother, I want to ask you something," Orchid said. "Can you share information about this 'Heir of Gargos?'"

Surprised, Jago faced his sister. Before long, everyone else remained silent, wanting answers.

"Okay, what am I missing?" TJ asked, breaking the silence.

Jago breathed, gathering his thoughts. "Why do you need to know?"

"Because earlier, Pemba informed Maya and me about this cult and their sinister plans," Orchid said.

"I see." Jago verified what the shapeshifter told them. He also mentioned Gargos from his personal experience, though uncertain of the demon's plans regarding its offspring once born.

"Hold the fuck up! Let me get this straight," TJ said. "So, this cult tried to put a demon spawn in Carrie, like they did with their victims, even Pemba's momma? Oh, hell naw! Over our dead bodies!"

"That's just fucked up, and Carrie's a kid herself, albeit a teen!" Nikita said.

"That's what I said earlier," Maya said. "This cult, are they still in Tibet, or have they spread out?"

"I wouldn't doubt them to spread their impact worldwide," Jago said.

As the conversation grew, Pemba narrowed her eyes at a dark line on the horizon. It shifted and grew, swaying like a living creature. Tiny lightning flickers flashed within the dense sand wall, casting eerie shadows across the night sky.

Orchid sensed the shapeshifter's tension. "Pemba, what's wrong?"

The giant bird stared at the anomaly. "Yō dūrīmā kē hō?" What is that in the distance?

The spy followed Pemba's gaze and gasped. "Aw, shit! Brace yourselves! We got a sandstorm heading our way!"

Everyone sprang into action, securing their gear and gripping Pemba's feathers. The howling wind picked up, and the first grains of sand pelted against their skin like tiny needles.

Though scared, Carrie gazed at the monstrous sand wall approaching. She gripped her cross pendant and closed her eyes, praying for strength and safety. Soon after, she outstretched her arms, creating a telekinetic shield. It shimmered in a soft blue light, creating a dome of protection over and around the group.

"Pemba, move forward," Carrie said via telepathy.

Though uncertain, the shapeshifter chirped and pierced through the sandy barrier. The sand whipped around the protective dome, but Pemba's wings propelled them forward. Visibility dropped to almost zero as whirling sands created a chaotic, thick haze. The winds roared like a thousand angry spirits, their cries echoing through the chaos.

Carrie's heart pounded in her chest, but she focused on maintaining the shield. If she faltered, the storm could tear them apart. As the sandstorm raged around them, she drew strength from her faith and hoped they would survive.

Inside the dome, the group huddled close, expressing fear and awe. Nikita clung to Maya, whispering encouraging words. Jago kept a watchful eye on Carrie, ready to assist if her strength waned. Orchid, though tense, marveled at the shimmering barrier that kept the ferocious storm at bay. TJ crouched low, his eyes widened. He had never seen Carrie use her powers in this manner. Despite the storm's terror, he admired her bravery.

Like a streak of light, Pemba surged forward, cutting through the storm. The group's strength and Carrie's unyielding shield turned fear into shared resolve to survive.

Moments later, the group burst through the other side, immersed in the starlit desert. The sudden calm was surreal after the chaos they experienced.

As she released the shimmering shield, Carrie panted as her body trembled. Exhaustion washed over her, but relief followed as she saw the clear night sky. The group gathered around her, offering gratitude and support, grateful to have made it unscathed.

"I never expected to say it, but good job. You too, Pemba," Nikita said.

Maya nodded. "We wouldn't have made it without you."

Jago placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Rest now. We've got you."

Orchid smiled. "You were incredible."

Still in awe, TJ said, "Is there anything you can't do?"

Carrie mustered a weak smile. "Just glad we're all safe."

The group continued their journey as dawn began, Pemba's wings gliding through the tranquil night air. Its first light revealed the vast Atlantic Ocean below them. The group became stunned at the sight, their spirits lifted by the serene beauty of the endless horizon stretching before them.

Pemba's eyes sparkled while surveying the view. "Sabai dhērai viśāla ra nīlō cha! Ākāśa ra samundra ē'uṭai hō jastō." Everything is so vast and blue! It's like the sky and the sea are one.

"Pems, I have no clue what you said," TJ said. "Damn. The ocean is big from up here."

Nikita chuckled. "Sometimes, the moment speaks for itself. Let's savor this peace while it lasts."

With renewed vigor, they pressed on. The ocean sparkled like diamonds as the sun rose, reflecting in the morning light. As they crossed the sea, Pemba's wings set a calming rhythm. The water below them was a stunning display of deep blues and vibrant greens, wavering as if breathing with the Earth.

Curious, Pemba moved closer to the water's surface, her wings creating gentle ripples as she descended. Given this was her first time flying over the ocean, the play of light and color captured her attention.

"Careful, Pemba," Carrie cautioned. "Who knows what's down there?"

"Oh, let her enjoy the moment," Maya said. "Every day is a fresh experience."

Pemba chirped, agreeing with the monster hunter. She ascended to ease everyone's concern, her wings catching the sunlight and casting playful shadows on the water. Then, she spotted something skimming below her. "Tyō kyā hō?" What is that?

The group peered down, examining the mysterious shape in the waves.

Nikita squinted. "It looks like… dolphins!"

"Oh shit, they are! Look, there's a whole family of them!" TJ said.

While racing Pemba's shadow, the dolphins leaped out of the water in synchronized arcs, their sleek bodies glistening in the sunlight. They danced and twirled, creating splashes that shimmered like liquid jewels.

A lump settled into Carrie's throat while watching the dolphins, their joy contrasting the grim realities of Chamberlain, Maine. Cold, gray days and a constant struggle for survival were the norm. Once again, she enjoyed the scene, forgetting the hardships she once experienced in her hometown.

As the dolphins swam away, Pemba returned to her original altitude, her wings slicing through the crisp air.

As the day stretched on, the sun descended toward the horizon. It painted the sky with fiery orange, soft pink, and deep purple. The ocean mirrored this breathtaking palette, the water transforming into a canvas of molten gold and lavender, each wave reflecting the light in a dazzling display.

The air turned crisp, scented with salt and the promise of nightfall. Pemba shivered, fluffing her feathers against the cool evening breeze. The group grabbed their cloaks, wrapping themselves against the chill.

"How far are we to South America?" Nikita asked.

Maya squinted into the distance, catching a faint outline on the horizon. "Not far now. I think that's the coast ahead."

Excitement rippled through the group as they spotted the emerging landmass.

"It's your call, Maya. Should we stop or keep going?" Orchid asked.

The monster hunter debated her options. "We could all use some rest. Let's camp on the shore and start fresh in the morning."

Once they found an empty shore area, they set up camp. The group gathered driftwood for a fire, and soon, comforting flames filled the air. As they sat around the fire, sharing stories and laughter, the stars twinkled above them.

The moment brought bittersweet memories to Carrie, recalling her stay at a Christian camp. The place tormented the girl, contrasting with the camaraderie she now enjoyed. She remembered the taunting faces of the other kids, the cruel pranks, and the constant sense of isolation.

The teenager shook her head. Those days are over. I bet those who survived my rampage think I'm dead. Maybe it's better if they believe it. She found a sense of belonging among her new companions she never imagined possible.

The following day, Carrie awoke to waves lapping against the shore. Emerging from the female tent, she stretched and headed to the water's edge, admiring the scenery. The morning sun cast a warm, golden glow across the landscape, bathing the shoreline in gentle rays.

Carrie found this ironic because the last time she was on a beach, she awaited death to claim her after her rampage in Chamberlain. However, this time, she was alive to begin anew.

"Ah, you're awake." Orchid emerged from the woods, yawning and stretching. "That was an enjoyable rest, despite my light sleep status. Who would've thought the sound of waves can lull even the restless minds?"

"Where did you come from?"

"The woods, of course. I had to relieve myself. Ocean crossings strain the bladder."

Carrie chuckled. "I suppose that's true. Ms. Orchid, can I ask you a question?"

"Shoot. Also, about the 'Ms.' thing, I know you're trying to be formal, but it sounds awkward to me. You can call me Orchid."

"Right. Sorry. It's about the Firecat. Could Jago do that, too, summoning it, I mean?"

"What makes you think that?"

"Since you two are siblings, I've wondered if it's possible."

Orchid mused, tapping her chin. "I never thought of that. While Jago and I share the same bloodline, our abilities differ. It depends on how we're raised, the environment, and our experiences. Jago's strengths lie in his spiritual connection and martial arts prowess, while my abilities are more attuned to survival and tactics. It's not about lineage; it's about the paths we choose to walk. So, while he may not summon the Firecat, his potential is just as remarkable."

"I see. It's amazing how different paths lead to unique abilities. It makes me wonder what hidden potential I might have. The question is, would I control it?"

"You have more strength and potential than you realize, Carrie. The key is to embrace your journey and trust in yourself. With time and perseverance, you'll uncover abilities you never knew you had. Well, we should get ready. The others are waking up."

After eating breakfast, the gang packed their things and continued their journey. While in giant bird form, Pemba reached cruising height, hiding in the clouds to prevent mass hysteria below.

Maya pulled out her digital map and studied it. "If we maintain this speed, we should reach the Andes Mountains in six hours."

"That's good," TJ said. "I hope your crib has some fine women." The gang turned to the boxer with raised eyebrows and incredulous expressions. "What? I'm just saying, having some company wouldn't hurt after all this traveling!"

The monster hunter pinched her nose bridge. "Good grief. We should be more concerned about challenges as we reach our destination. The altitude change will be challenging. We'll need to acclimate to avoid altitude sickness. Also, given her form, some Night Guard members might see Pemba as a threat. However, convincing them she's an ally shouldn't be a problem."

"Should we be concerned with how the Night Guard and the locals might treat us since-excluding yourself-we're outsiders?" Jago asked.

Maya mused. "It's possible, but our intentions speak louder than our origins."

Winding rivers and lush green canopy punctuated their flight above the Amazon Rainforest. As they approached the majestic Andes Mountains, the dense vegetation gave way to sprawling savannas and rugged foothills.

"Move slow, Pemba," Maya said. "We should get accustomed to the elevation."

The shapeshifter responded with a chirp. As time passed, the air became thin, and the temperature dropped. Feeling the effects, the gang bundled up in their warmest gear, taking deep breaths to acclimate to the thinning air. They also drank bottled water to keep themselves hydrated.

While doing so, Maya scanned the landscape below. Her eyes caught a series of ancient stone structures obscured by dense foliage, their geometric patterns distinct even from above. By referencing her digital map, she pinpointed the city's location in a secluded valley surrounded by cliffs accessible only by a narrow, winding path.

"Everyone, look! Down there!" she said.

The gang followed Maya's line of sight, spotting the buildings. Their astonishment grew as they admired the enduring structures' intricate stonework and massive scale. Their excitement and reverence grew as they prepared to enter a forgotten world.

"There it is," Maya said. "The City of Dawn."

A/N: The gang has finally arrived in the City of Dawn! I'm sure it'll be a huge culture shock for some. It's time for my brain to rest, so I'll see you later.