New chapter! YAY!
After Vi returned, sharing the news that the peace cult was worth a shot, Jinx felt a surge of determination. It was time to get Vander. She set off to find him, her heart racing with a mix of hope and apprehension. Meanwhile, Ekko, Vi, and Isha waited in a secluded spot, mapping out the best path to get Vander to the cult. They discussed the potential challenges they might face, each of them aware of the delicate balance they needed to maintain with Vander's current state.
When Jinx finally returned, she walked alongside Vander, who was draped in a large blanket that obscured much of his form. Jinx kept her hand on his side, a comforting gesture meant to reassure him that it was okay to move forward. She felt the tension radiating from him, the growls that escaped his throat sounding almost like a warning. Ekko's heart raced as he watched Vander. He could see the struggle within him, the battle between the man they once knew and the beast he had become.
The group moved cautiously through the back streets, where the shadows loomed and the absence of people provided a sense of safety. Jinx kept close to Vander, her hand resting reassuringly on his side as they navigated the narrow alleys. The last thing they needed was a crowd, especially with Vander still wrestling with the beast within.
Small sounds echoed around them like pipes rattling, steam hissing from vents and each noise caused Vander to flinch, emitting low, angry growls that rumbled deep in his throat. Jinx felt the tension radiating from him, and her heart ached at the struggle he was enduring. But Isha, ever fearless, stepped closer to Vander, her small hand reaching out to pat his arm giving a small hum.
To Ekko's surprise, Vander's growling subsided slightly, his focus shifting to Isha as she stood bravely between him and the source of the sound. The sight of the little girl standing firm brought a calmness to the situation, and Ekko felt a wave of admiration for Isha's courage. He noticed the way Jinx looked at her sister, a hint of pride shining through her eyes. It was heartwarming to see Jinx smile so brightly, especially when it came to Isha. The bond they shared was palpable, and it was hard not to love Isha with her sassy attitude and unyielding spirit.
As they continued into the rocky canyons, the air felt different. More charged, almost electric. The walls of the canyon towered around them, casting long shadows that danced with every flicker of light. It was a stark contrast to the openness of the streets they had just left.
"So how far is this place? Or did you get us lost…" Jinx asked, her voice laced with slight sarcasm and teasing. A smirk tugging at the corners of her lips as she looks at Vi, who looks back at Jinx rolling her eyes and shaking her head.
"I know the way there; we ain't lost. Just a few more turns, and we should hit the main path" Vi said confidently, matching Jinx's playful tone, happy that Jinx was being at all friendly with her right now.
"There are going to be people walking down it, but I don't think we have to worry. Anyone that comes here is here to be healed… but we should still keep Vander covered." Vi adds, being more serious.
"Yeah, we don't want to chance people panicking," Ekko added, matching the seriousness of the moment. His eyes remained focused on Vander, ready to react if the situation turned.
"Oh lighten up" Jinx interjected, trying to ease the tension.
"Vander won't attack. Not if we can calm him down; he's able to recognize us. He didn't even mess up my hideout when he was locked up in there, he was just sitting down holding your old stuffed bunny… damn it…" Jinx cursed under her breath, realizing too late that she had let that slip. The weight of her words hung in the air, and she felt a wave of embarrassment wash over her.
"You kept that?" Vi asked, her voice soft yet laced with disbelief. The tone irritated Jinx more than she expected.
"Yeah, so I could use it as a target!" Jinx scoffed, trying to put on a tough front, but it didn't land as she intended. Ekko watched the exchange, a smile creeping onto his face. He could see right through Jinx's bravado.
"Shut up, Ekko" she growled, her irritation evident.
"I didn't even say anything" he defended, his hands going up in surrender, the smile remaining firmly in place.
"Exactly! It's your face that's annoying me right now" Jinx shot back, though her tone was the smallest bit of humor to her words. It was as if the banter was a shield against the weight of the moment, allowing them all to breathe a little easier.
Isha giggled at their exchange, the sound lightening the atmosphere around them. The tension that had hung heavy before seemed to lift, if only for a moment. Vander, too, seemed to respond to the lightheartedness, his growls quieting further as he glanced down at the group surrounding him.
As they approached the main entrance to the cult, Ekko felt a sense of awe wash over him. The sight before them was breathtaking, a stark contrast to the gritty streets they had just traversed. Fields of crops flourished in the sunlight that managed to shower the village, vibrant greens and yellows bursting forth from the soil. It was hard to believe that this land, once thought barren, could sustain such life.
Those who had been touched by the healer moved about the area, their faces glowing with happiness. Each of them bore distinctive marks on their heads, the patterns that resembled fingerprints etched into their skin. Despite the unusual appearance, there was an undeniable vitality about them. They looked healthy and content, as if the healer's touch had revitalized not just their bodies but their spirits as well.
The structures that dotted the landscape were the Hex Core that sent Ekko and Heimerdinger to the other universe. They twisted and turned, a blend of organic shapes that seemed to grow out of the earth itself. The largest building, a massive orb, appeared to be composed of tendons woven together, giving it a somewhat ethereal quality. It pulsed gently as if alive, and Ekko couldn't shake the feeling that it this was more than healing. He had a sinking feeling in his gut that didn't sit to well with him, but if his would help Vander then he would push this feeling back for Jinx.
Jinx's gaze remained fixed on the structures, a sense of familiarity washing over her as she took in their peculiar design. Suddenly, realization struck her. She glanced at Ekko's Z-Drive, particularly the floating orb within the tank, and the resemblance was uncanny. It looked just like the orb-like buildings that littered the cults village. She noticed that Ekko was lost in thought, his brow furrowed in concentration. Whatever was on his mind seemed to weigh heavily on him, but he kept it to himself. Jinx made a mental note to ask him about it later. It felt important, but right now they had a more pressing concern.
"Vi, I hoped you might return." a man at the front greeting people says in a clam voice, he was one of the men that betrayed them in the past after he got addicted to shimmer. Getting a scowl from Vi as she walks up, her hex gloves balling up into fits.
"You filthy traitor" Vi growls out with hate, Jinx giving her a none amused look since she shouldn't be calling anyone a traitor with her being one herself but said nothing.
"yes… that was me at my worst, simply awful" the man nods his head, but showed no signs of remorse as he holds his hand out in greeting to new people looking to be healed as they move past him.
"The herald as freed me from my past self, he gave me a chance to amend" he smiles warmly, Vi still glaring down at him before glancing at other members of the village coming to greet people offering them fresh water and food.
"all are welcome here… but I must ask that you surrender your weapons. This is a place of peace" he adds, Ekko goes to grab Jinx when she starts to walk forward with her gun being drawn but he didn't grab her in time.
Jinx points her gun right at the mans face threatening him while Isha walks over to looking up giving her own glare trying to be just as scary as Jinx. Vi glanced between Jinx and Vander, her expression shifting to one of exasperation. With a resigned sigh, she deactivated her hex gloves, letting them drop to the ground with a soft thud. They were here for Vander, and there was no choice but to comply, no matter how uneasy it made her feel.
Jinx caught Vi's eye, frustration bubbling up inside her. She popped the hex crystal out of her gun, catching it deftly in her hand. Isha watched intently, curious about the process. With a quick motion, Jinx tossed her now useless gun toward the man, who caught it with a look of surprise. Ekko, feeling the weight of the situation, instinctively reached for his Z-Drive. But before he could pull it off, Jinx's hand pressed against his chest, stopping him.
"Go back to your Firelights. We can handle it from here." she instructed, her expression firm. Ekko looked back at her, tension simmering between them. He sensed she knew something was off, and her resolve was clear.
"Are you sure?" he asked, hesitance lacing his tone.
"Yeah, I'm sure. Just keep an eye out from the outside. We'll be fine." she replied, glancing back at him with determination. He sighed, the reluctance evident as he stepped back.
"Alright" he finally conceded, though his worry didn't entirely fade. As he moved closer to her, his head leaned in, and Jinx tensed at how close he was.
"Keep your guard up. If anything happens, I'll come running back." he murmured, his voice low and urgent. Vi shot him a dirty look, her protective instincts flaring. It was clear she didn't appreciate him getting too close to Jinx, ready to step in if necessary.
Meanwhile, Isha, unnoticed by the others, had been quietly sneaking something into her bag as she moved away from Vi's hex gloves. Her small hands worked quickly, her eyes darting around to ensure no one was watching. With that the 3 girls and Vander are guided into the village, making their way to the large orb building where they were told the Herald was waiting for them. Like he knew they were here to see him, it was kind of creepy.
As the three girls and Vander followed the man through the village, they observed the bustling activity around them. People were weaving baskets, skillfully crafting them with intricate patterns, while others were constructing new homes to accommodate the ever-expanding number of members. The scene was vibrant and alive, a community thriving in harmony. Yet, for Jinx, the overwhelming tranquility felt almost sickening. It was too peaceful, too perfect, and she struggled to suppress the unease stirring in her stomach. For Vander's sake, she knew she had to behave.
As they passed a smithy workstation, the sound of metal clashing against water pierced the air, a loud hissing noise echoing around them. Vander's reaction was immediate and primal. He turned sharply, slamming his large clawed hands into the ground, causing the earth to shake slightly beneath him. The blanket cloak that had concealed him fell away, revealing his formidable form. He let out a roar that echoed through the village, a mixture of fear and anger directed at the people at the workstation.
Isha, quick to react, jumped in front of Vander, arms spread wide in a protective stance. The villagers paused in their work, surprise etched on their faces as they beheld the sight of such a fearsome creature. Jinx and Vi hurried to cover Vander up again, worried that the villagers might turn them away for having a monster in their midst. They didn't want to jeopardize Vander's chance for help, but the man in white held up a hand to stop them. His demeanor remained calm, and a warm smile spread across his face as he nodded reassuringly, as if to say it was alright.
"He is welcome here, just like anyone else," he assured them, his voice soothing. Vander, still growling, seemed to respond to the man's presence. The tension in his body began to ease slightly, though he remained wary, eyes darting around at the villagers who were now observing them with curiosity.
As they continued deeper into the village, Isha kept close to Vander, offering him comfort and gentle words to soothe his growls. This allowed Jinx to focus her attention on the man known as 'The Herald' as they approached the largest building. Its massive rounded opening loomed before them, a gateway to the unknown.
Just as they reached the entrance, a skinny man emerged, leaning on a metal staff. His longish brown hair framed his face, and the metallic limbs attached to his body gave him an almost robotic appearance. He regarded the girls with curiosity before his gaze shifted to Vander, intrigue flickering in his eyes.
"We hear you can heal people" Vi stepped forward, her voice filled with a mix of determination and hope.
Without a word, The Herald moved closer to Vander, who was still growling lightly, turning his head to the side as if battling his inner beast. Isha instinctively tensed, her protective instincts kicking in, while Jinx placed a gentle hand on Vander's back, trying to help him relax.
The Herald paused directly in front of Vander, hesitating momentarily as Vander snarled at him. But then, with a calm demeanor, he raised his hand, and a soft energy light emanated from his metallic arm. He reached out to touch Vander's forehead, and both Vander and The Herald flinched at the contact. The girls watched in fascination, their expressions a mix of confusion and concern.
"What's happening?" Jinx muttered, her brow furrowing as she exchanged glances with Vi and Isha, who looked equally baffled by the unfolding scene.
As The Herald's hand connected with Vander, he closed his eyes, and the air around them seemed to shimmer with energy. Jinx couldn't shake the feeling that something profound was occurring, but she couldn't quite grasp what it was.
Moments later, The Herald pulled back abruptly, gasping as he fell to his knees. He slowly rose, using his staff for support, while Vander shook his head, growling more intensely. Jinx noticed that Vander now bore the same markings on his forehead that adorned the villagers, a clear sign that he had been touched by The Herald.
"He is worth the risk" The Herald said, his voice steady as if talking to someone else. But Jinx felt a surge of anger at the man's calmness, her protective instincts flaring up. She shot The Herald a glare, realizing that whatever he had done seemed to unsettle Vander even further.
"Who the hell are you talking to?" Jinx snapped, her voice laced with frustration. It felt as if The Herald were speaking to someone behind him, but she couldn't see anyone. Was he out of his mind?
"Jinx, calm down… can you help him?" Vi says gently to Jinx, then asked The Herald about Vander. Jinx just scuffs and rolls her eyes moving closer to Isha as the girl stood by Vander's right side. The Herald nods as he takes them on a tour of the village while they talked about Vander, stopping at a small water trough with a well pump.
"Vander's psyche is deeply entangled with that of the beast," The Herald explained, settling down on the stone edge where water was collected. Jinx, her energy restless, jumped up to balance on the well's edge, listening intently. Meanwhile, Isha removed her helmet to fill it with water, her movements focused.
"How did you know his name?" Vi questioned, choosing to sit down across from The Herald, her curiosity piqued.
"He told me," The Herald replied with a casual shrug, which earned him a suspicious look from Jinx.
"Ask for a miracle healer… get a metal fortune cookie!" Jinx shot back sarcastically, her voice dripping with mockery. She caught an annoyed glance from Vi and a slight smirk from The Herald, both reactions fueling her defiance.
"I saw your father," The Herald began, his tone shifting as he looked down, searching for the right words.
"His dream of your family and vision of Zaun, of how it could have been. It was… beautiful." he adds, Jinx rolled her eyes at his sentimentality, clearly unimpressed.
"-cough- Cookie" she muttered as she began circling the well, her frustration manifesting in her restless movements.
"Can you help him?" Vi pressed, cutting through Jinx's sarcasm and keeping her focus on the matter at hand. She was determined to keep the conversation grounded in the urgency of Vander's situation.
Isha scampered over to Vander, her helmet filled with water held out eagerly. "Here, Vander!" she called, her eyes bright with hope. Vander instinctively moved back slightly, wary of the helmet's contents, and managed to avoid the splash of water that spilled over the rim. He sniffed at the water, his curiosity piqued, before he began to lap it up like a massive puppy, much to Isha's delight. As Isha giggled, The Herald watched with a serious expression.
"I will try everything in my power to help him. However, I have one condition" he said, his voice steady. Jinx, who had just returned from her loop around the well, stopped and grasped the gear that helped move water out from the well. She glanced at The Herald, her expression skeptical.
"Looks like you've got a couple" she remarked dryly, her distrust evident. The Herald responded with a small snicker, mirroring the same energy she was giving him.
"You have much to offer this commune, Powder." he said, casting a sideways glance at her. Jinx froze, a gasp escaping her lips as a small cog wheel slipped from the main components of the larger wheel and plopped into the water below. The Herald reached into the water, retrieving the cog and holding it up for her to see.
"Your talents can be used to build, instead of destroy" he added, his gaze focused on the small metal piece.
"I'll… stick with what I know, thanks," Jinx replied, her voice steady but laced with a hint of uncertainty. She backed away from him, turning her attention back to Isha and Vander. Isha was now dumping the remaining water out of her helmet, preparing to wear it again.
As Jinx moved closer to them, she felt a mix of emotions churning inside her. The Herald's words echoed in her mind, and though she didn't want to admit it, there was a part of her that felt the weight of his suggestion. She was a fighter, master criminal, a creator of chaos, but could she channel that into something positive?
"My one condition is that he is restrained at night" The Herald declared firmly, his expression serious.
"I have seen the harm he is capable of." The weight of his words hung heavily in the air, and the thought of the beast taking control and causing chaos in the commune was a risk they could not afford. Vi let out a sigh, turning to Jinx, seeking her input.
"What do you think?" she asked, her tone earnest. Jinx paused, caught off guard by her sister's question.
"You actually… want my opinion?" she breathed out, a hint of surprise in her voice. It was rare for Vi to ask her sister for insight, and it touched Jinx in a way she hadn't expected. Their eyes locked for a moment, a silent conversation passing between them. But Vi looked away first, breaking the moment, which caused Jinx to shake her head in frustration.
"I hate fortune cookies" Jinx growled, her annoyance resurfacing. She tapped Isha on the shoulder, signaling for her to follow. Isha looked up at Jinx, giving a short nod before turning back to Vander. She raised her hand in a playful gesture, a mix of sass and affection, before darting off to catch up with Jinx.
Vi moved closer to Vander, her heart heavy with concern. She gently cradled his face in her hands, placing her forehead against his in a tender promise. A Promise that they would get him help and he would no longer need to fear his inner beast that threatened to lives of many if it was able to take control.
Vander's eyes softened as he looked at her, the connection between them palpable. There was a flicker of understanding in his gaze, as if he could sense the resolve in Vi's eyes. Though the path ahead was uncertain, they all held onto the hope that together, they could find a way to heal him.
As Jinx and Isha scouted the area, searching for a suitable spot to set up their temporary living space, Jinx's mind churned with thoughts. The Herald's condition weighed heavily on her, and she couldn't shake the feeling that it was a necessary precaution, but it still stung. She didn't want Vander to feel like a prisoner, even if it was for his own safety.
Days passed in the village, a rhythm settling into the routine as The Herald worked tirelessly to help Vander, striving to pull him away from the rage that threatened to consume him. Jinx and Isha remained steadfast, never leaving the village, while Vi often ventured out on walks to clear her mind and gather her thoughts.
From their makeshift spot overlooking the building where Vander was being held, Jinx found solace in people-watching. She and Isha had created a small sanctuary, a cozy nook that provided a clear view into the structure. With her mini scope in hand, Jinx would observe the village life unfolding below, the interplay of warmth and community contrasting sharply with the turmoil they were facing with Vander.
One afternoon, as she scanned the horizon, Jinx's gaze landed on a familiar figure perched on a ledge just outside the village boundaries. It was Ekko, his own scope trained on the area, and they locked eyes. A smirk crept across Jinx's face as she playfully flipped him off.
To her delight, Ekko responded in kind, a wide grin breaking across his face as he returned the gesture. The brief exchange filled Jinx with warmth, a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, there were moments of lightness to cling to. Ekko had been coming and going, checking up on them regularly, and his presence added a layer of comfort amid the challenges they faced.
As the days passed, Jinx and Vi slowly began to bond over shared memories of their parents. They reminisced about little things, like the way their mother smelled, Axle grease. That lingered in their minds like a comforting embrace. It was a rare moment of vulnerability for both of them, and it brought them closer together in ways they hadn't anticipated.
Vi's suggestion to stay and help the village struck a chord in Jinx's heart. The use of "we" felt monumental, as if Vi were committing to a future that included all of them, not just a temporary fix for Vander. Jinx's heart clenched at the thought, a mix of hope and fear swirling within her. What did it mean for their future? Would they truly settle down here?
While the sisters talked, Isha sat off to the side, focused on her own little project. She was scribbling off moss from a slab of stone, her small hands busy with the task. Every so often, she glanced around, searching for Ekko, who was usually lurking in the shadows, keeping an eye on them. Isha couldn't help but wish that Jinx would open up to Ekko. It was clear to her that he was trying to get closer, his feelings for her blue-haired sister evident in the way he looked at her. But Jinx seemed resistant, keeping him at arm's length.
As she worked, Isha's mind raced with possibilities. Maybe once everything settled down, she could convince Jinx to give Ekko a chance. It would be strange to think of Ekko as a brother if he and Jinx were dating, but she had faith that their bond could grow into something special—a family connection that would bring joy to all of them.
The thought made Isha smile, knowing that Jinx could be even happier if she allowed Ekko's affection in. She envisioned the three of them, Jinx, Ekko, and herself with maybe Vi as well. Forming a new family unit, one built on love and support. Isha's heart swelled at the idea, and she felt a sense of determination to help it come to fruition.
Eventually, the girls go their separate ways to get something to eat. Once Vi was gone Jinx gave Isha a little mission to get her gun from where the village was holding it at, she knew Isha would be able to get it with no problem. So after Isha got her fill of fruit she set out on her stealth mission, all while Vi was snooping around after seeing a strange bald man leaving the building Vander was inside.
Vi follows the man out of the village and finds a spear embedded into the ground just outside of the main entrance, she didn't like the feeling she got seeing the weapon. It looked like a weapon from that crazy war pig Ambessa that Caitlyn was working with, she pressed on following the man but ends up loosing sight of him. Before getting tackled by none other than Caitlyn, she was the last person to expect to be hanging around this place. Tension was high with them as Caitlyn told Vi why she was hear and Vi telling her she was there to try to save her father.
After a little over an hour of anticipation, Jinx spotted Isha sneaking around with her helmet clutched to her chest. A smile crept onto Jinx's lips, proud of her little sister's stealthy approach. She watched eagerly as Isha climbed, her heart swelling with admiration for Isha's determination.
However, the smile on Jinx's face faded slightly when she noticed Caitlyn entering Vander's holding area alongside the doctor known as Singed—the very same man who had injected Shimmer into her veins. The memories of that painful experience rushed back, a sharp reminder of the torment she had endured. Even though she had moved on in many ways, the specter of that pain lingered, and she found it hard to shake off the feelings of vulnerability and anger.
Jinx squeezed her eyes shut for a moment, forcing herself to focus on the present rather than the shadows of her past. When she reopened her eyes, she plastered on a smile just as Isha reached the top, triumphantly holding the gun up like a trophy.
"I knew you could get it!" Jinx exclaimed, her enthusiasm returning as she beamed at Isha. The little girl had always been slippery like an eel, able to navigate tricky situations with ease. As she takes the scope from Jinx as she trades the gun for it. Jinx smiles at her and thinks about how lucky she was that Isha came into her life, its changed her whole life
"Had some time to think lately…" Jinx began, catching Isha's attention. The little girl turned to her, curiosity shining in her eyes.
"Ever since you dropped into my life, it's like I put on glasses, Except I can't tell if everything is blurry or clear." Jinx chuckled, her tone light yet contemplative. They exchanged smiles, a moment of connection that momentarily eased the tension in the air. Jinx then pulled the scope back up in Isha's hands, directing it toward the building where Vander was being held.
"Wanna hear a dumb joke?" Jinx asked playfully, pulling out her hex crystal from her pocket.
"A sentimental ex-con, a giant fur ball, and two of Piltover's most wanted walk into a strange cult" Jinx said, loading the gun with a determined look in her eyes. As she charged it up, Isha peered through the scope, her heart racing with anticipation.
"And here comes the punchline" Jinx sneered, aiming her gun, ready to fire at a moment's notice.
But just as she prepared to pull the trigger, something unexpected happened. Jinx's focus sharpened as she saw Singed approaching Vander's sleeping form, his intentions clear. However, before he could reach him, Caitlyn rushed him, tackling the doctor and putting him in a choke-hold, pulling him away from Vander.
"What the—?" Jinx gasped, her shock evident as she glanced at Isha, then back at the scene unfolding in the building. Caitlyn was actually stopping Singed from doing anything to Vander! Jinx's mind raced with questions. Where was Vi? This was the worst time for her to be off on a damn walk!
After Caitlyn took down Singed, she moved over to Vander, speaking to him in a low voice, trying to provide comfort or perhaps gather information. But just as things seemed to settle, a large, muscular man clad in heavy armor burst into the room, launching a surprise attack on Caitlyn. He lifted her by the throat, her struggles visible as she gasped for breath.
Jinx felt a wave of frustration wash over her. She knew she had to save her enemy for the moment; she couldn't let anyone touch Vander. If it were up to her, she'd let the guy rough up Caitlyn a bit longer, but she figured this was what Vi would want.
"Stay hidden for me, Isha. I've got to be the big fat hero again," Jinx smirked, adrenaline coursing through her as she leaped off their platform, her eyes glowing pink as her Shimmer activated.
Jinx fired a shot into the building, aimed directly at the large man. The energy blast hit him squarely, causing him to drop Caitlyn as he raised his arm in an attempt to block the impact. Time seemed to slow as he turned his head to see Jinx diving in from above. She winked at him, letting out a snicker, thrilled at the impending fight.
The man swung his spear at her, narrowly missing, and only slicing a few strands from her long braid. Jinx landed gracefully, crouched low, then shot forward with blinding speed, diving under his legs just as he brought the spear down, missing her completely and striking the stone floor instead.
With a burst of energy, Jinx leaped into the air, aiming her gun at his back. She fired another shot, but he reacted quickly, spinning his spear with practiced ease. The energy shot was absorbed by the runes on the staff, and Jinx's confident smirk faltered. This was not going to be as easy as she thought.
"Time to go with Plan B" she thought to herself, focusing on dodging until either Vi arrived or Caitlyn decided to get back in the fight.
The spear came hurtling toward her stomach, and with a quick reflex, she placed her hand on the flat side of it, pushing down while using it as leverage to propel herself forward. She feigned an attack to his face, tricking him into swinging his fist. He missed entirely, catching only air as Jinx dropped down, evading his attack.
She was having a blast, dodging his swings with ease landing a few blows herself, feeling the exhilaration of the fight. But her long hair became her undoing when the armored man managed to grab a fistful of it, yanking her down to the ground with a jarring thud. Pain shot through her as he stomped on her arm, pinning her down with a wicked smirk.
Jinx looked up in concern as he raised his weapon, preparing to bring it down on her. She shut her eyes tightly, bracing for the pain she believed would come. But instead of the expected blow, all she heard was the sound of metal clashing against metal and feral growls echoing above her. When she opened her eyes, her heart soared at the sight of Vander, wide awake and hovering protectively over her.
"Don't touch my daughter" Vander said, his voice fierce and commanding. The large man looked momentarily startled, fear flickering across his face. Vander's fist connected with the man's jaw, sending him flying back and crashing through the wall.
Vander turned to Jinx, worry etched on his face as she got up. In an instant, she smiled and ran to him, wrapping her arms around his sturdy frame in a tight embrace. The warmth of his presence filled her with a sense of safety.
"I'm okay, Dad" she reassured him, and he held her close, relief flooding his features.
Just then, Caitlyn finally sat up, recovering from being choked earlier. Her eyes widened in surprise and anger as they locked onto Jinx. A myriad of emotions crossed her face from confusion, frustration. What was a criminal doing here? But before she could voice her thoughts, the door burst open with a loud crash. Vi charged in, ready for a fight, but her fierce demeanor softened when she saw Jinx and Vander together. A smile broke across her face, relief washing over her.
"You're okay! Thank god!" Vi breaths out, Isha unable to contain herself, pushed past Vi and rushed to Jinx, hugging her tightly. Jinx wrapped her arms around Isha, feeling the familiar comfort of her little sister.
"I'm fine, Isha! See? All good!" She glanced over at Caitlyn, who was still trying to process the scene before her.
"You…" Caitlyn finally managed to say, her voice laced with barely concealed hatred. She couldn't understand why Jinx was here, how she could be part of this moment when she was supposed to be a criminal. Jinx looked back at Caitlyn, a smirk playing on her lips as she rested her head against Vander's chest.
Vi joined Jinx and Isha, standing close to Vander, and for a moment, they looked like a happy family. The scene was filled with laughter and relief, the tension of the earlier fight dissipating as they reveled in their connection.
Caitlyn stood off to the side, her heart in turmoil. She didn't want to take Jinx in right now, not when Vi looked so happy, not when they were all together like this. Jinx had that kid glued to her, and for a fleeting moment, Caitlyn felt an unwelcome pang of jealousy mixed with confusion. But good things never last, and just as the warmth of the moment began to envelop them, the atmosphere shifted.
A loud sound echoed through the village, followed by haunting shrieks that pierced the air. The four girls quickly rushed out of the building, their hearts racing as they sought the source of the chaos. What they found sent chills down their spines: the once vibrant village had been plunged into darkness. People were sprawled on the ground, screaming in horror, with eerie light pouring from their eyes and mouths, as if their very souls were being extracted.
The large building where The Herald resided lay in ruins, parts of it floating ominously in the air, remnants of destruction radiating dread. Jinx, Vi, Caitlyn, and Isha exchanged worried glances, a sense of foreboding settling over them like a heavy fog. The atmosphere was thick with despair, and before they could process the scene, Vander's enraged roar echoed through the chaos.
They turned back, eyes wide with shock, as the building glowed a sinister red. Jinx and Vi's hearts dropped. Vander emerged from the darkness, his form distorted and terrifying. Steam billowed from his eyes and mouth, which now oozed a molten red liquid, painting a grotesque picture of his transformation.
"Vander?" Vi called out, her voice trembling, hope mingling with fear. She stepped forward, desperate to reach him and pull him back from whatever darkness had consumed him. But deep down, she sensed it was already too late but she didn't want to admit it.
Vander reared up on his hind legs, letting out a deafening roar that echoed through the village, shaking the ground beneath them. The man who had attacked Jinx was the first to meet his end, scrambling to reach for his weapon. His face, bloodied from their previous encounter, was now a mask of terror.
"NO!" Caitlyn shouted, instinctively moving to protect the others, but Jinx felt rooted in place, her heart pounding wildly in her chest.
Vander's primal instincts took over completely, and he lunged at the man with terrifying ferocity. The man screamed in agony as Vander's inner beast emerged, savage and unrelenting. Blood sprayed the air as Vander ripped into his victim, tearing flesh from bone, a horrific display of raw power that made Jinx's stomach churn.
Isha, trembling with fear, hid behind Jinx, her small frame shaking as she tried to process the violence unfolding before her. Jinx felt a surge of emotions of horror, anger, and sadness raging a war within her. This wasn't the father she knew, it was a monster, driven by rage and a desperate need to protect.
Turning for an escape route they stop as they come face to face with Ambessa and her army of soldiers, a look of rage on her face as she looks at Vander who just murdered her commanding officer. She grits her teeth and holds up her blade and yells sending her soldiers in to kill Vander instead of capturing him alive like they had planned.
Vi, Caitlyn, and Jinx sprang into action, battling against Ambessa's men in a desperate attempt to clear a path for Isha and ensure her safety. Jinx called out to Vander, her voice laced with urgency as she fought to get through to him.
"Dad! Please! You have to stop! We need to get out of here together!" She clung to the hope that he could hear her, that they hadn't completely lost him to the beast within.
But as she got too close, Vander, consumed by rage and confusion, struck out blindly. Jinx barely had time to react before she was sent flying backwards, crashing to the ground with a sickening thud. Pain shot through her body, and she felt the warmth of blood trickling down her face from the brutal hit. Dazed, she struggled to push herself up, her heart racing with fear for Vander and her sister.
From her vantage point, Isha watched the chaos unfold, her heart pounding in her chest. Jinx was down, struggling to rise, and the sight filled Isha with dread. Fear coursed through her, but deep down, she knew she had to do something. Gathering her courage, she fitted her helmet tightly and took off running towards Vander, who was surrounded by soldiers and being stabbed with spears.
"Vi!" Caitlyn shouted, helping Vi as they fought off attackers. Vi had sustained a cut to her side, but the urgency to protect Isha propelled them forward. As Jinx looked up, she caught a blur rushing past her. It took a moment for her to process what she had just seen, and her eyes widened in horror.
"Isha! No!" she screamed, extending her hand in a desperate attempt to stop her little sister.
Isha was darting toward Jinx's gun, still lying on the ground where Jinx had dropped it. With determination, she pulled out another hex crystal and loaded it into the gun, then another. Jinx's heart sank as she realized the danger Isha was putting herself in.
"NO!" Jinx screamed again, her voice breaking with panic as she forced herself up, limping towards her sister with all the strength she could muster. Vi and Caitlyn turned back, their faces etched with concern as they watched Jinx charge toward Isha.
"Jinx, don't!" Vi yelled, fear gripping her. Just as Jinx reached out, Vi pushed away from Caitlyn, running to grab Jinx and prevent her from losing Isha for good. Tears streamed down Jinx's face as she screamed her young girls name.
"ISHA!" The young girl turned to her, a bright smile on her face, a stark contrast to the chaos around them. In a moment of innocence amidst the turmoil, Isha pretended to shoot Jinx with her hand, a playful gesture that only deepened Jinx's anguish.
But the moment was fleeting. Isha turned back to Vander, who was dangerously close, his monstrous form ready to lash out in his rage. Jinx's heart raced with terror as she saw her sister holding the gun up at Vander, the very man who was supposed to protect her. Vi pulls Jinx turning them around to shield her from the explosion that shakes the ground. Then, time stopped… and rewinds.
-sobbing- my eyes burn from my tears while writing this! I didn't want to write this part but it had such a big impact! BUT! our man Ekko is still around! he has to save Isha right? RIGHT?! that's what I remember in the show anyway... Isha didn't die! that was just a bad nightmare! I'm not crying! you're crying!