Back with chapter 8! I hope you all had a great holiday, and happy new year! Hopefully the last chapter was a good read! I hope this chapter is fun to read, let's get into it.
"Finally. Calus will face the retribution he deserves." Caiatl said, staring at the Leviathan. "Encircle his ship. We will slowly close him in until he can no longer run." She kept her composure in front of her subordinates, but inside - Caiatl's body was full of only fury and rage.
"But my empress, the portal. What shall we do about it?" An engineer on the bridge asked.
"It could be another of Calus's tricks. But I won't count it out, as it may be where he is truly hiding." Caiatl stared at the portal, she's seen many types in her lifetime, Vex, Hive and Taken. But this was unlike anything she had ever seen. "I will go. If I know Calus, he wouldn't be on the Leviathan with such a phenomenon right in his face."
"Are you sure, empress?"
"I am certain of this. Valus Satuur will lead the assault on the Leviathan. I will enter the portal and search for Calus there. And if I do find him, I will deal with him, and bring him back here." Caiatl began to walk out of the bridge, coming upon Vruzra. "Vruzra, you will accompany me." She continued walking. Vruzra nodded and followed.
"Excuse me, empress. But where are we going?" Vruzra asked.
"To investigate the portal we found. We are going to cross through it to search for Calus." Caiatl responded.
"Really? What makes you so sure that he is there?"
"He is a fool with a one-track mind. His thoughts are filled with nothing but avarice and power. I take solace in knowing that this is the end of a civil war between the Cabal that has lasted too long, and you should too." Caiatl and Vruzra entered an elevator that took them down to a hangar, full of several Cabal and Psions preparing to board the Leviathan. Some, still donning Red Legion armor to truly show how opposed to Calus they were. They all stopped what they were doing to salute Caiatl, raising their weapons in the air as she walked past them. She looked around, looking at the hundreds of warriors, ready to fight for her. She was approached by a centurion.
"Empress Caiatl, the Ascendant Guard is armed and ready to board. Will you be accompanying us? We'll make sure to let you have the first blow."
"There is no need, centurion. I am embarking on my own mission, and I will need one of your ships, and some of your warriors."
"Certainly, empress." The centurion walked Caiatl over to a harvester with a complement of three Ascendant Guard legionaries. They all saluted Caiatl as she approached.
"This is all, centurion? Hm, I expected more." Caiatl said.
The centurion perked up, "I apologize, empress. I can muster more power if need be."
"Do not worry, I jest. I would need only one of them for this task." Caiatl responded.
"Of course, empress. Is that all? I am not required for your task, am I?"
"No, you will lead your soldiers into battle. It brings me great dishonor that I cannot do the same. But I am doing this for the sake of clarity. Break the bones of those toothless Loyalists, and spit them out the mouth of the Leviathan, centurion."
"I will crush them in your name, empress! For the Cabal Empire!" The centurion walked away, leaving the Caiatl and Vruzra.
Caiatl addressed the Ascendant Guard squad on what they'd be doing, "It seems that your commander has chosen you to accompany me. On any other day, this would be an honor. But rest assured, this is no honorable task. Depending on the circumstances, this could be a short and simple mission, or a long and strenuous one. But know this - I guarantee that you all will be back to finish whatever is left of Calus's Loyalists."
"My empress, where will we be taking the fight?" One of the guards asked.
"I will be truthful, I am not certain. It is a portal, unlike one I have ever seen, not of Hive or Vex origin. Wherever it may lead, I will not let it claim your lives. So take your arms, gather your courage and prepare to enter the unknown." Caiatl responded in an encouraging voice, the guards all nodded and boarded their ship. Caiatl turned to Vruzra, "Vruzra, you have been awfully silent. Are you ready?"
Vruzra suddenly perked up, "Yes, empress. Ready as ever. Although, Is it wise to only proceed with only three soldiers?"
"I was once told an old story when I was young. It was about a legionary who used most of his ammunition before confronting his true enemy. He died shortly after. I am not that legionary, Vruzra." Caiatl boarded the harvester, and Vruzra, struck by her words, followed after her.
The ramp to the ship closed and it took off with hundreds of others that all headed for the Leviathan as Caiatl's warships encircled and trapped it. Caiatl's harvester veered off from the rest and beelined toward the portal.
Caiatl walked to the cockpit, staring into the portal as it grew closer. "Even if my Calus is not here, even if this endeavor was…meaningless. My childish urges to explore have reawakened. Not even my quest to bring Calus to his knees can stop that, just as his so-called 'parenthood' couldn't stop it." The pilot slowed the ship down, and began entering the portal. As it crossed through, there was a bright light that flashed the eyes of everyone inside, they all covered their eyes. After a short while, Caiatl was the first to open her eyes. She was starstruck.
Just outside of Bonesborough, under the night sky on the junk-filled beaches of the Isles, Calus and his escort were walking to rendezvous with his ship, and return to the Leviathan. Za'aurk suddenly ran in front of Calus.
"My lord, I am receiving reports that the Leviathan is under siege!" Za'aurk yelled out.
Calus was stunned, "Under siege!? By who!?"
"By…Cabal!" Za'aurk said, shocked.
"That simply cannot be. We left the Sol system without a trace. No one could find us. Are they Red Legion remnants looking to take the throne once more?"
"Some wear Red Legion armor and insignia, others bear an insignia unknown to those aboard the ship. Could it be…?"
"No. She couldn't have found me. She can't find me! I will not allow her meddling to ruin my plans!" Calus yelled out, his voice echoing throughout the streets of Bonesborough, catching the attention of many passerbyers.
"We can not return to the Leviathan. We'll be found within minutes. What do we do, my lord?" Za'aurk asked.
"If we can't leave, then we bring the Loyalists here. Caiatl's soldiers won't follow them into the portal without her direct orders."
"This will cause complications with the emperor of the Demon Realm, will it not?"
"There have been…negotiations. There will be little to no issue for neither side. No side, except for Caiatl."
"But the Leviathan. She'll have access to everything."
Calus groaned in sorrow, "I know. It pains me to leave behind such a glorious piece of machinery, especially one I feel so connected to. But this is for the survival of the Loyalists, and my dream - our dream. Sacrifices must be made in order to achieve this."
Za'aurk shook his head. "Emperor Calus. You would have them withdraw?"
"I want them to live. Now order them to leave the Leviathan. Those who refuse will have either been captured or slain by Caiatl's rogues. The Leviathan's natural defenses will hold off any intruders until they can escape."
"As you wish, my lord." Za'aurk took to his comms, "This is Primus Za'aurk to all Loyalists aboard the Leviathan. Withdraw to the ships. On the orders of our lord, Emperor Calus, withdraw to the ships. Fly through the portal, on the orders of our lord, Emperor Calus. And to all who wish to stand and fight, you will be remembered for years to come."
"Good, Za'aurk. I doubt Caiatl's crude ships will be able to pursue ours through the portal. Accelerated plans will not stop us." Calus heard the sound of a ship entering the atmosphere and looked up to see a harvester flying through the sky "They couldn't have possibly arrived this early…" He turned to Za'aurk, "Whoever is on board that ship is not of Loyalist affiliation. They can not find us, not yet."
"Where will we go, my lord? What will we do?" Za'aurk asked.
"We will assimilate. Qexal and Ilzat have informed me of something they overheard the emperor and his guard talking about. A parade, held by the witches. You and the arriving Loyalists will act as…extra security."
"I'd imagine their emperor would have qualms over such a strategy. Are you certain my lord?"
"Hah. When have I never been certain, Za'aurk? Emperor Belos will welcome us with open arms. Or should I say - welcome you with open arms?"
"My lord?"
"I can not risk being found, even with our forces establishing a foothold. If Caiatl catches even a glimpse of me, she would invoke the wrath of her and Ghaul combined. I must keep myself out of sight. It pains me to say it. This would be much simpler if my automatons weren't…inoperable. No matter. Everything will unfold all the same. In my absence, you will command the Loyalists, Za'aurk."
"You would bestow such an honor upon me, Emperor Calus?"
"You are the only one worthy of such a position. Of course, I will still pull the strings. You will still report to me and adhere to my every rule. Until further notice, I am the shadow emperor. Use our forces wisely." Calus began boarding his barge, Qexal and Ilzat were already on board.
"But where will you go my lord, and when will you be back?"
"I will be far, Za'aurk, but ever so close. I will be back when the time is right. Do not engage Caiatl. Do not assault the witches and demons. But do what you must to keep them in check."
Za'aurk reluctantly nodded in agreement, "Yes, my lord." He looked as Calus's guards boarded the barge with him, leaving him on the beach alone.
"So long, Primus! Do not fail me!" Calus yelled as his barge glided away over the sea.
Za'aurk looked up to the sky, anticipating the arrival of the Loyalist forces. "I can not guarantee a 'smooth' operation, my lord. But I will not fail you." He said to himself.
Caiatl's harvester entered the portal with no complications, but none of them could believe their eyes.
"Where are we?" Vruzra asked, making her way to the cockpit.
"It looks to be an ordinary planet. Not much unlike Earth." Caiatl responded. She looked closely as the ship flew over the sea, and noticed a massive skeleton, "That skeleton. It is immense. Bigger than the land whales of Torobatl." She fell silent for a bit in awe of its majesty, "Land the ship. If there is civilization here, we should not expose ourselves. Anyone could be an agent of Calus. If we are found, there is no telling what could happen."
"Yes, anyone." Vruzra responded, "We should keep an eye out for any Loyalists, my empress."
Caiatl nodded, "Yes. Above all else Calus and his Loyalists are the top priority." The ship started to descend as it got closer to the giant skeleton. As they got closer she saw a town, "So, this place truly is inhabited. Then it wouldn't be unlike Calus to hide amongst them." Caiatl looked to the pilot, "Land us somewhere secluded. If we are seen then so be it. They will be dealt with."
The pilot nodded as he descended the ship toward a group of cliffs that met with the sea. Soon, the ship landed at the peak of one of the cliffs, covered by large trees, far out of the sight of anyone. The ramp opened and everyone walked out, except for the pilot.
Caiatl took a deep breath, "The air here feels so different, yet so similar to that of Earth's. It is breathable." She stretched her limbs for a bit, "My pressure suit is already acclimated to the atmosphere." She turned to her guards who were adjusting their suits, "No need, it is fine. Nothing has changed." She said suspiciously, "Vruzra, you stay with the ship. I will contact you when we have confirmed there are no threats."
"As you wish, empress. If I see anything, I will contact you." Vruzra responded.
Caiatl nodded, she looked to the Ascendant Guards, and pointed to two of them, "You two, come with me." She pointed to the other, "And you stay with the ship, guard it with your life. If you see any Loyalists, crush them on sight." The guard nodded, and Caiatl walked away with her guards.
At the Owl House, Luz and her friends had just finished going through the rest of the Loyalist book, not finding much of anything. Suddenly, they all heard a loud screech coming from outside, and every one of them went running down and out of the house. Once out, they looked up to the sky, and Luz pointed something out. "Guys, look!" She was pointing to a smoke trail in the sky, "That trail definitely has something to do with that noise. And we are definitely going to be following it, right?" She asked. They all nodded as they ran in the direction of the smoke trail.
Caiatl and her Cabal walked through the forest, her guards bared their weapons with their flashlights on. In the distance, they could see something burning. Against her better judgment, Caiatl walked over to investigate the fire anyway and readied her hammer, "Stay vigilant, this could be anything." The guards loaded their shotguns and readied them, expecting anything. As they got closer, Caiatl could hear a loud buzzing noise. Suddenly, a swarm of fire bees swarmed around Caiatl and her guards. The guards started opening fire on the bees, their slugs taking down multiple of them at once. Caiatl drew her hammer and swung at the bees, causing them to fly away.
Luz and her friends could all hear the echoes of the shots, and followed them. As they drew closer, one of the slugs whizzed by them. Taking cover, the shots suddenly stopped. They got up to see a few trees on fire, some with holds in them. What they were not expecting was to see more Cabal, but they weren't the same Cabal that followed Calus.
One of the guards looked around with his weapon drawn, checking for more threats, "Empress, the threat has been contained. They are retreating." Shortly after, a rustling sound coming from the bushes could be heard.
Caiatl held her hand out, "Silence." She slowed her breathing to listen. "In the bushes." Caiatl looked toward the sound of the noise to see a group of people looking at her with their heads barely poked out. "Show yourselves! Or share the same fate as those beasts!" The people walked out of the bushes, and Caiatl was met with a group of small children no bigger than Psions. "Children? Who are you?" The guards pointed their weapons at them. Caiatl motioned for them to ease their weapons, "They are of no harm to us."
"That's a rude way to greet someone you just met." Amity remarked.
"Consider yourselves lucky. They would have eliminated you had I not intervened." Caiatl examined them, "Humans away from Earth? What are you doing here? What is this place?"
Willow stepped up, "Well, we aren't humans. We're actually witches, and right now you're in the Demon Realm?" She looked over to Luz, "Actually, our friend here is a human. She's not really meant to be here though."
Luz took a step forward right in front of Caiatl, "Hi, I'm Luz. And you are?"
"Caiatl. Empress Caiatl of the Cabal Empire. I am here on a mission of great importance."
All their eyes widened in surprise, "Huh, and I really thought you wouldn't be able to find your way here." Luz said. "So uh, your mission doesn't involve any sort of world ending revenge battles does it?"
Caiatl rested her hammer in her hands, "Answer my questions first, human. Why and how did you get here? You should be on Earth, inside the Last City. Yet you are here in a completely different 'realm'."
Luz crossed her arms, "Well, I thought the person who's guards pointed weapons at us would answer first, but hey, beggars can't be choosers. And long story short, I found a magical door from my realm to this one, and I've been here ever since. Also, what the heck is a Last City!?"
"You do not know of the Last City? I've assumed it was the only safe place for your people."
Luz was once again confused by the thought of a 'last city', "I'm not sure what you mean, but where I'm from there's more than plenty of safe cities." Luz crossed her arms, "Humanity is fine and thriving right now. No 'last city' for us."
"Then it has not happened yet. A conversation for another day perhaps, human. We must continue." Caiatl began walking in a random direction.
Luz ran in front of Caiatl with her arms out. "Wait! You didn't even answer my question, plus, you don't even know where you're going!" She exclaimed. "Let us help you, yeah?"
"We don't require your help. Certainly not that of children." Caiatl dismissed her and began walking again.
Luz ran in front of her again, "But wait! What if we know who or what you're looking for!?"
Caiatl's head snapped to look at Luz, "You know who? How could you possibly know why I'm here?"
"How about you come back to my place then? That way I'll be able to show you."
Caiatl looked to her guards, then back at Luz, "I believe it is in my best interests to come with you then. But do not waste my time."
Luz saluted her, "I wouldn't dream of it, empress. I'll tell you everything I know so far. Just make sure those guys don't go pointing their weapons at anyone else here, okay?"
"A Cabal never lowers their weapon..." Caiatl remarked.
"Well, the rules here are different from where you come from, empress." Luz responded.
"I admire your confidence. But if I were you, human, I would watch your tone." Caiatl nodded to her guards, and they kept their weapons low, but keeping a finger on their triggers.
"Awesome! Now if you'd follow us, that'd be great!" Luz said, as she and her friends began walking back to the Owl House. Caiatl and her guards followed.
On the Leviathan a massive battle ensued. Loyalists were either fighting or retreating to docked ships to escape to the Demon Realm. The massive ship was littered with drop pods and dead Cabal. The Loyalists were fighting a losing battle. The Imperial Cabal pushed through the halls of the Leviathan with their superior manpower. Squads of phalanxes and legionaries tore through the Loyalists. Gladiators crossed cleavers in the torn Castellum. The cornered Loyalists called upon the Ceremonial Bathers for support. Hundreds of bathers were let loose from their incubation pods and began engaging the Imperials, all of them only a few seconds old.
The enraged bathers were enough of a distraction to help several of the Loyalists reach their harvesters in time after receiving Za'aurk's transmission, some were shot down by the encroaching Imperial warships. A dozen of the harvesters made entry into the portal, anymore were destroyed or captured by tractor beams. Once the Imperial Cabal realized where they were going, Valus Satuur ordered one of the warships to block the portal. Now none could get in or out.
Satuur looked up as the warship moved to block the portal, "Some of them made it through. No matter, the empress will deal with them swiftly." He mowed down a squad of Loyalists rushing him with his slug thrower. He got on the comms, "Do not relocate that ship unless given orders to by me or the empress!" He was hit a few times, but continued firing his weapon into his enemies.
The escaped harvesters made contact with Za'aurk on the beach, who was waiting for their arrival. Their arrival went unnoticed due to the time of day, they took to the beach, and rendezvoused with Za'aurk.
"This is all?" Za'aurk said to himself. " I expected an armada." He watched as the ships landed and dozens of Cabal walked out of them. Za'aurk walked up to a centurion who had just disembarked. "Centurion, where are the rest of our forces?"
"They were either destroyed or captured when we started our evacuation, Primus Za'aurk." The centurion responded.
Za'aurk growled, "So many great soldiers lost to those scum. And what of the Leviathan?"
"As far as we know - lost. There are still several holdouts, and the Ceremonial Bathers were released to distract them."
"If a tactical retreat was the only way our forces could survive, then how does the emperor expect his schemes to work? If it were up to me, we would have fought to the last soldier." Za'aurk responded.
"But we are here now, sir. Our forces may be weakened, but our fighting spirit is as strong as ever."
"It dishonors me to say this, but quell that fighting spirit, centurion. The emperor wants us to play the long game. This time, we will be helping the witches."
"What?! Helping them? We have conspired for centuries, and it accumulates to helping them?"
Za'aurk started to walk away, "I hardly think I should follow the orders myself, but I am loyal to the emperor through and through." He turned around, "Prepare your squad for tomorrow. Tame your war beasts. We'll all be on guard duty." Za'aurk walked away to address the other centurions.
After a while, the last centurion that was approached by Za'aurk was Bracus Khuun. Khuun immediately stopped what he was doing and saluted the Primus. "Primus Za'aurk, it is an honor sir."
"At ease, Bracus. I should be the honored one. You and your squad were the ones who freed Emperor Calus. A legionary could only dream of such a feat." Za'aurk placed a hand on Khuun's shoulder, "I assume you haven't been notified of the emperor's plan?"
Khuun shook his head, "No, Primus. I am in the dark."
"We are…assimilating into their society for the time being. Tomorrow, a parade is being held and we will be there as extra security." Za'aurk said hesitantly.
"But, I thought the emperor wanted something more from the witches? Was this always the plan?"
"A series of complications have halted those plans." Za'aurk took his hand off Khuun's shoulder, "I know your unit will yield results during this endeavor. This is no combat mission, but if you need to use force…then do so. My orders. After tomorrow, we'll assert ourselves. And on that day, I will need your unit to put on a show for the people of this realm, one that will gain the trust of them."
"And what would that be sir?"
"You will know in due time. For now, attend to your unit. Be prepared for tomorrow." Za'aurk walked away, but then stopped, "And the Valus assigned to your unit, Urlgor, is my second in my command. You will absorb his detachment and have full command over them. I hope you can handle it." He continued walking.
Khuun nodded, "Thank you, Primus!" He turned to face Gor'tuk and Eratl, who were listening to the conversation.
"Command of an entire detachment? You're really moving up in the food chain, Khuun." Gor'tuk said.
"This is your chance to prove that you are worthy of being a Bracus." Eratl added.
"Yes, it would seem that way. But it doesn't feel right, it's not like I'll be on the battlefield commanding those under me." Khuun responded.
Gor'tuk walked up to Khuun, "Not all Cabal are made on the battlefield, Bracus. Think of our very own emperor, his legend. It has been centuries since he has been in the heat of battle, and he is, and always will be engraved in Cabal history."
Eratl walked behind Gor'tuk, "Yes, take this opportunity with pride. Primus Za'aurk has basically promoted you himself. That is no ordinary feat, commander."
"Perhaps you are right. We shall see." Khuun said confidently.
Back at the Owl House, Caiatl was conversing about Calus with Luz and her friends outside.
"Tell me, what do you know of my father? What is your relation to him?" Caiatl asked.
Luz held her hands out, "Woah, woah. I, uh, don't want to be rude but, I kinda want you to answer my question first. Y'know, for my sake, the sake of my friends, and for the Demon Realm as a whole."
"Hmph, fine. Ask your question, human."
"So you're here looking for your father, and it seems like you two have some pretty big problems with each other. So here's my question. When you find him, you aren't gonna end up blowing the entire Demon Realm in some big battle, are you?"
"Far be it from me to destroy a world because of the foolishness of Calus. But if it comes to it, then collateral will be tolerated. I will do anything to bring him to his knees." Caiatl clenched one of her fists. "But that is beside the point, why is Calus of any importance to you?"
"Okay, now you might get a little mad at me…" Luz said nervously, sweating, "But, your father was trapped in this weird statue and me and my friends, uh, kinda freed him from it."
Caiatl suddenly tensed up, "You…what?!" She shouted, "You freed that tyrant?! Did you think nothing of it before?!" Her calm demeanor turned to one of aggression in a matter of seconds.
Luz backed slowly away from the enraged empress, "Woah, I'm sorry! I was just…curious! Very curious! I didn't even know who he was, let alone that he was a bad guy! It was a big mistake, and I know I shouldn't have done it at all. But it was too enticing to give up!"
Caiatl pointed to Luz, "I should name you a traitor to the empire for such a transgression." She moved closer to Luz, "And do you know what that entails?"
"Um, no. And honestly, I really don't want to." Luz responded.
Caiatl pulled her hammer off her back, sparing no words. She looked at Luz and her friends menacingly. Her guards cocked their weapons and aimed at them.
At the sight of this, Luz's friends all hopped in front of her, ready to use their magic on Caiatl and her guards if need be. Amity was in front of them all, "Nobody hurts my Luz- Er, I mean, nobody hurts my friends!" She shouted flusteredly.
Caiatl's eyes widened, "What is this power you wield? You dare threaten the empress of the Cabal Empire? I have slain opponents 10 times your size!"
"We aren't afraid to use our magic, and we definitely aren't afraid of you! Only a little bit!" Willow shouted.
"Yeah, if protecting our friend means we have to face you, then so be it!" Gus added.
"You are foolish to challenge me." Caiatl started to calm down and put her hammer on her back, "But you were even more foolish to free Calus. You are children, I will not blame you. Had I been younger, I would have done the same as you." Caiatl put a fist on chest, "My apologies." She looked to Luz, "I admire the bravery of your friends, willing to protect you in the face of danger, let alone a threat more powerful than them." Her guards lowered their weapons. "Nevertheless, Calus roaming around this realm is a danger within itself."
Everyone lowered their guards, but stayed tense nonetheless. Luz walked forward, "Like I said, I really had no idea how dangerous he was. He seemed…nice when we first met him. He can't be that bad, right?"
Caiatl shook her head, "You and your friends were but another group manipulated by Calus. If hiding is not what he is best at, then it is certainly manipulation." She reached her hand out to Luz, "You mentioned something of a 'Loyalist book'?"
"Oh, yeah!" Luz took out the book and gave it to Caiatl, "Here you go."
Caiatl grabbed the book, opening it, "Indeed, these are scriptures pertaining to the origins of the Loyalists. It is useless." She tore it up.
"Hey, what are you doing?!" Luz yelled out.
"Yeah! We needed that!" Amity exclaimed.
"That book was written by Calus's scribes, hundreds of years after he was exiled. Whatever information it had was either false or outdated. I can tell you everything, down to the last minute details." Caiatl looked up at the sky. "It grows later and later. At least from what I can tell. Not even in another realm is there enough time to catch up to Calus." She said to herself.
"It is getting late. And it's a big day for us tomorrow. We have to help prepare for the Coven Day Parade tomorrow." Gus responded.
"Yeah, we should go home guys." Willow added.
"We'll see you tomorrow at the parade, Luz?" Amity asked.
"Yep, though I'm not exactly sure when I'll be there. But don't worry!" Luz scratched her head.
Amity walked up to Luz and kissed her, "See you until then." She walked away with Willow and Gus.
Luz stood there flustered, "Bye, guys!" She yelled as she waved at them.
"You seem close with them all." Caiatl said, "How long have you been here?"
"I kinda lost count but, I'll say a few months. Maybe half a year."
"I take it you are the only human here?"
"Yeah…" Luz said unsure.
"You sound hesitant, human. Are you certain that you are the only human?"
"Well, not so much. I have my suspicions about a certain somebody, but I don't want to up and say it. Not yet at least." Luz admitted.
"Then why not confirm your suspicions? What stops you?" Caiatl asked.
"The problem is that the person is literally the emperor here. I wouldn't even be able to get close enough to unmask him and see for myself." Luz sighed, "Even if I did that, it wouldn't matter. The people here would still be loyal to him. They really love him as their emperor."
"That reminds me of Calus. We couldn't exile him in front of our people. They adored him as much as he adored his own image. So we took him in silence, at the dead of night and sent him and his followers off on his ship, the Leviathan." Caiatl explained, "But do not heed those words. Your predicament is different from mine. Work your way to exposing this emperor through your own means."
"Maybe you're right. But I think I'm gonna take a break from the exposing and alien emperor stuff. I really want to help someone tomorrow. Make them see a side of life they haven't seen. I even made up this entire plan to do so." Luz responded hopefully. "Maybe there'll be some hope for both of us at the end of the day."
"If today is such a big day, then you should rest. A weary warrior is a failing warrior."
"You're right. All this stuff has been keeping me up recently. It's been really interesting and really scary at the same time." Luz said as she rubbed her eyes. "But I think I'm going to hit the hay for now. Do you think we'll see each other again?"
"Our paths may cross once more. But do not count on it."
"Hey, you should come to the Coven Day Parade! I'm sure you'd have fun there! Especially because you aren't some evil emperor." Luz said jokingly.
"I could not risk the people here seeing me. I've already taken a risk with you and your friends."
"I wouldn't worry! There's all types of weird demons and creatures here. I think you'd fit in no problem at all." Luz said confidently, "Just don't go swinging your hammer around at people when you get angry, yeah?"
"Perhaps, I will take it into consideration. Celebration is the very least of my priorities as of now. But if it means finding Calus, or even his second in command, then it will be a celebration that I can't give up."
"Well if ya do show up, make sure to give your buddy Luz a shout! Or…on second thought, don't. That won't be very ideal for me." Luz stretched and walked to the door, waving at Caiatl before walking in.
"If there truly is another human here, surely Calus has already tried to coerce them to his side. Hopefully he failed if that is the case." Caiatl said to herself. She motioned her guards to follow her as she walked back to her ship.
The next morning, Caiatl was resting her eyes. Vruzra tried to inform her of something as she came back, but was put off by the empress.
"Empress! Empress! Wake up!" Vruzra yelled.
Caiatl's eyes slowly opened, "Yes, Vruzra?" She asked irritably.
Vruzra backed away from Caiatl, "My apologies, empress. When you were away, there was an influx of harvester signals. They were designated as Loyalist ships."
"And how many were there?" Caiatl asked.
Vruzra looked at her datapad, "At least a dozen, my empress. That's an entire garrison of Loyalists. We don't know what they plan to do yet."
"Then we shall find out what their intentions are. Were you able to track them?"
"Yes, but after a while, their trail runs cold. There is no clear destination or indication of where they went."
"Then we'll just have to hunt them down naturally."
"Yet we have no idea where we should start."
"Has such a problem stopped us before?"
"No, empress. It has not."
"Then this shall be no different. Unknown territory or not."
"Will you be ordering reinforcements?"
Caiatl took a second to think over it, "No. I've learned that there is an entire civilization here. A war of attrition between Imperial Cabal and Loyalists would be nothing short of destructive."
"You would take on a garrison of Loyalists with you and 4 other Cabal?"
"I would take them on by myself if I had to. If it meant finding Calus." Caiatl grabbed her hammer from a rack off the ship, "Now ready yourself Vruzra. Pilot, stay with the ship. Defend yourself if necessary." The pilot nodded. Caiatl pointed to all her guards, "You three, stay with the ship." Her guards grabbed their weapons and formed a perimeter around the ship.
"Where will we start then, empress?"
"I overheard the people I encountered speaking of a parade. We'll conduct a small reconnaissance operation, wherever it is. And do not fret, I was informed that we would…fit in with the population here. I do not know how credible such a claim is, but we will take the chance."
"Earlier I saw fireworks coming from the east. I'd assume that's where the parade is taking place." Vruzra said.
"Then let us go." Caiatl responded as she began walking, Vruzra following her.
At the emperor's castle, Za'aurk was preparing to enter to speak with Emperor Belos. He was suddenly stopped, as someone had appeared in front of him. It was Belos himself, "I've been waiting for you, second to Calus. What brings you to my castle?" He asked calmly.
Za'aurk walked forward, "Waiting? How did you know I was coming?" He asked, surprised.
Belos let out a small laugh, "This is my realm. I know every little detail about it, everything that happens, and every word that is spoken. But that is beside the point. What is your purpose here?"
"Hm, if you know every word that is spoken, then surely you know why I am here." Za'aurk responded brashly.
Belos stood quiet for a moment before breaking the silence, "...Yes, and I have no other choice than to say…yes." He said reluctantly. "Had the exchange between me and your emperor been any different…my answer would have been quite different."
"Hah, then you chose the right answer." Za'aurk said cockily. "My forces have already begun their duties. I assure you. Your parade will continue as originally planned."
Belos looked away from Za'aurk, "I would hope so." He turned around, "I wish your emperor luck with his plans." He started to walk into the castle, "And…do not ruin or damage my realm. Or I may have to tap into my true power and crush your little regime." He said menacingly.
"We aren't afraid of your empty threats." Za'aurk retorted as he swung his hand in anger.
Belos stopped, "Then I find you'll be afraid of what happens when I take action." He said in response. "You'll see in due time."
"What does that mean?! Witch scum!" Za'aurk yelled, watching Belos walk into his castle. He was ignored, and walked away, scoffing at the audacity of him.
In Bonesborough, Loyalists detachments were being deployed out of harvesters, establishing themselves in the town. Citizens watched as they dropped out of their ships, most were flabbergasted, it was something they had never seen before. The impact of the Cabal hitting the ground made a loud clunking noise that persisted even as they walked. Groups of unarmed legionaries and other units flooded the streets the parade would travel on. Even to the witches and demons who had never seen the Cabal, seeing them without their weapons felt like they were missing something. Crowds of people formed wherever a harvester deployed a squad. Soon, the ships stopped appearing.
Centurions started ordering their units to certain positions. Legionaries and phalanxes rushed to the sides of Coven guards and scouts, standing in front of crowds with them. A demon child walked up to one of the legionaries, tapping on their leg, "Excuse me sir, are you here to protect us?" The child asked.
The legionary responded in a language completely unintelligible to the child, it was almost like they were just mumbling nonsense, especially due to the filter on their voice. A centurion came and moved the legionary out of the way, "Move along, child. We're here to help with your…parade." The centurion assured.
"Thank you, sir! Happy Coven Day!" The child said happily as they skipped away.
Suddenly, a giant plant grew out of the ground, opening to reveal Terra Snapdragon, head of the Plant Coven. She arrived to look over the parade preparations, but was surprised to see an entirely new crowd that she was unaware of. She was brought to the ground, and walked through the crowds and people and Cabal, "What is the meaning of this?!" She asked, confused. "Who are these - What are these things?!"
Za'aurk had just shown up, "Those would be my Cabal. And they are the extra muscle of this event."
Terra turned around, looking Za'aurk up and down, "And you are?"
"I am Za'aurk. Primus Za'aurk. Your emperor is…displeased with the continued failures of the leaders of these 'Covens'. So he took it upon himself to seek our help." The primus fibbed.
"Displeased? Failures? Surely he is not referring to me. I have never failed my emperor." Terra said, trying to reassure herself.
Za'aurk laughed, "It certainly wouldn't seem so. But I am not here to scold you, witch. I am only here to do duty. To show the Cabal are trustworthy."
Terra scowled, "Hm, I'll be keeping my eye on you. And that's no understatement, I have eyes and ears everywhere in this town." She retreated into her giant plant, and went off to attend to other things.
"I wouldn't doubt it." Za'aurk said to himself. He walked over to a centurion, "Has your squad been situated?"
"Yes, primus. They've taken positions with Emperor Belos's guards." The centurion responded.
"Good. The parade should be starting at sundown. Not too long from now. Be ready and on the lookout." Za'aurk told the centurion, as he nodded and walked away.
Later that day, Luz, Eda, King and Hooty arrived in Bonesborugh to enact their plan to kidnap Kikimora so she could see her family. But when they got there, they saw something that wasn't part of their plan.
"What?! Now these guys are working for the emperor?!" Eda said out loud.
"How are we supposed to sneak past them? Even with invisibility glyphs, they could probably smell us from a mile away!"
"What should we do, Luz? You still wanna stick to the plan?" Eda asked.
"…Yeah, if it's worth getting into trouble over. Then it's worth it." Luz said confidently. Everyone else nodded in agreement. "Let's go guys!"
The parade had begun, fireworks were being set off and the crowds were cheering as the floats passed through the streets of Bonesborough. Cabal and Coven scouts alike marched alongside the floats, protecting them from any danger along the way.
Much to her dismay, the most heavily guarded float of the parade was Kikimora's, who was representing the Emperor's Coven. She was anticipating her 'kidnapping', but the extra security had her weary of it being carried through. Despite this, she continued to smile and wave at everyone in the crowd. "Hopefully the human can still go through with her plan," She thought to herself.
Caiatl and Vruzra arrived at the parade. Caiatl tore a tarp off a nearby booth in an alleyway to conceal herself. "So, it truly is a parade." The sight of Loyalists caught her eye, "But why would they need the protection of Loyalists?" She asked angrily.
"Perhaps it is a truce between the emperor of the Demon Realm and the Loyalists." Vruzra suggested.
"Yet they wield magic, Cabal wield weapons. It is like a Fallen protecting a Guardian. That does not make sense." Caiatl responded.
"What do you plan to do, empress?"
"To weaken their forces." Caiatl walked out of the alleyway and into the crowd, watching as the floats passed by.
"Empress Caiatl! Wait!" Vruzra exclaimed. She began to run out, but quickly took a piece of the torn tarp to also cover herself before joining Caiatl.
Despite her concealment, Caiatl still stuck out like a sore thumb due to her sheer size compared to everyone else. A centurion and two legionaries pushed people out of the way, wading through crowds to approach her. They looked up and down at Caiatl. She held her cloak tight around her body.
The centurion spoke first, "Don't you know the rules? No full body cloaks on parade grounds." Caiatl didn't respond, "Did you hear me? No full body cloaks, demon."
"Demon?" Caiatl asked.
"Yes. You are a demon, are you not?" The centurion held out their blade gauntlet, "I've ordered you to relieve yourself of the cloak. If you do not comply, then I may take action."
"Your threats won't work on me, Loyalist scum." Caiatl responded in defiance.
"Then you'll just have to suffer the consequences." The centurion drew their blade and forcibly pulled the cloak off of Caiatl. They visibly gasped. "Daughter of Calus!" The legionaries also drew their blades, ready to battle Caiatl. This took the attention of the people in the crowd, gasping at the interaction, until fireworks were set off nearby that took the attention of the cheering people, including the Loyalists. Caiatl, not wanting to fight within such a large crowd, backpedaled to the alleyway. The centurion and legionaries followed, while Vruzra ran away and hid. In the alleyway, Caiatl was cornered, "Nowhere left to run, Caiatl. Surrender. And Primus Za'aurk just may let you live as a gift to your father."
"Surrender? Do you think of me the same as your cowardly 'emperor'? You'd have to defeat me a thousand times over before I willingly submit."
"Then we'll have to do just that." They moved closer toward Caiatl, until she used her jump jet to ascend atop a building. The Loyalists took chase, following Caiatl up to a roof where they had a standoff.
Caiatl took out her hammer, "If you truly wish to bring me to Calus. Then you'll have to defeat me." Caiatl noticed that they were still unarmed, "You have no weapons but your blades. If you are true Cabal, then this should be an easy fight for you." The centurion rushed Caiatl first, slashing their blade at her, which was blocked by her hammer, knocking them back. The legionaries both pushed, swinging at the same time. Caiatl was wounded by one of their blades, but swiftly pushed them away with all her force, knocking them both out, and off the roof. The sight of the battle took attention away from the parade, causing people to point. Nearby Cabal rushed over, including ones protecting the floats. Due to this, Kikimora's float was less heavily guarded.
Luz and Eda watched from another roof as the battle ensued, "Is that…Caiatl?" Luz asked herself, staring at the battling empress.
Eda spotted the withdrawing Cabal, and tapped Luz to get her attention, "Check it out, kid. Those big guys are leaving the float! This is our chance!" Luz nodded and they both activated their invisibility glyphs, jumping down near Kikimora's float. At the same time, King and Hooty set off more fireworks as a distraction. Kikimora took notice of the fireworks and ordered her guards to investigate them. Shortly after, Luz and Eda placed smoke glyphs near the float that engulfed it. Luz was able to grab Kikimora from the float, activated another invisibility glyph and ran off with her. Eda did the same with Raine.
Meanwhile, Caiatl was still locked in combat with the Loyalists. Their small battle caused a bit of a building to topple over. A phalanx was able to bash Caiatl off of the roof, and onto Kikimora's empty float, completely crushing it. She got up, slightly wounded, but still with a full fighting spirit. The crowds of people ran away, hiding in the midst of the chaos, while the Loyalists surrounded Caiatl.
Za'aurk, who was nearby, took notice of the battle. He walked over to the surrounded empress, moving his subordinates out of the way. He stared at Caiatl, who stared right back at him, "The fabled Princess-Imperial. You're here looking for your father, aren't you?"
"And you must be Primus Za'aurk." Caiatl grabbed her hammer off the ground.
"You've interrupted the festivities today, Caiatl. To the people of this realm, that is…unforgivable." Za'aurk clenched a fist.
"Where is my father?!" Caiatl asked, furious.
Za'aurk shook his head, "Give it up and leave. You won't find him here."
Caiatl bared her hammer in both her hands, getting into a fighting stance, "If I have to defeat you to get his whereabouts out of you, then so be it."
Za'aurk drew his arm blade, "Finally. A good fight. I've been waiting for this for such a long time." Za'aurk looked at all the Loyalists surrounding Caiatl, "If you all know what's good for you! Then don't interrupt! Or you'll be on the edge of my blade!" The Loyalists turned from combatants to spectators, backing away from the all, turning the parade ground into a battleground. Caiatl made the first blow, swinging at Za'aurk with her hammer. Za'aurk dodged the hammer and stabbed her in the leg. Caiatl let out a grunt of pain before punching Za'aurk away, knocking him to the ground. She walked up to him, winding up her hammer to strike him with it, until he moved out of the way, causing the hammer to hit the ground. Za'aurk taunted her, "You're slow, Caiatl. Undisciplined. Searching for your father all these years must have worn you down." He laughed as he stood up.
Unfazed by Za'aurk's taunts, Caiatl struck him in the abdomen with the handle of her hammer, stunning him, before hitting him away. "You overestimate yourself, Loyalist scum. Hundreds of years spent running, conquering insignificant and meek civilizations made you weak, along with all of your warriors. I should have ordered the execution of you all when I had the chance." Despite her facade, she was already weary, but she wouldn't let her opponent know that. Za'aurk recovered from his injury and rushed her, bringing his blade down on her, which was blocked by the hammer, locking their weapons in a stalemate.
Meanwhile, Luz and the others just finished watching Belos's speech, and his unmasking. They were all surprised, wondering what his next move would be, and what the real reason for his unmasking was. But at the last second, Belos spoke once more. "I have but one more announcement for you, my people. Be not afraid of our new…citizens. They are a part of a greater plan for the Demon Realm, one that will make it a better place. They mean you all no harm, and wish for nothing but peace and order for our society. Watch as their very own leader works to protect our Isles from those who would threaten us." The hologram of Belos switched to a hologram conjuring of Caiatl and Za'aurk fighting. Everyone in the crowd gasped, including Luz and the others. The hologram transformed back into the form of Belos, "It is now their duty to protect our Demon Realm from any and all threats that may besiege us. And as they are under my watch and order, I will make it certain that they do not bring conflict to our Isles." The hologram of Belos extended his arms, "Thank you for listening, and thank you for attending this year's Coven Day Parade!" The hologram then disappeared, officially ending the speech in a flurry of fireworks and roars of cheering.
Amity turned to Luz, "Hey, Luz. Isn't that-?"
Luz looked at Amity, "Yeah, that's her. Me and Eda saw her earlier before we went through with our plan."
"You mean you know that big brute, kid?" Eda asked.
"Yeah, I do know her. And I think we should help her." Luz responded.
"What?! And go up against all of those guys? No way! We'd get smushed!" King exclaimed.
"And there's no way I'm letting you even get near them, Luz. You're my responsibility!" Eda said authoritatively.
Luz stood up, "But think about it guys. She could be a powerful ally against Belos! With her on our side, we could have a better chance fighting him!"
Eda gave Luz a stern face, "...No. It's too dangerous, Luz." Eda also stood up, "And that's final." She watched as Luz started to walk away and walked over to grab her hand. "Luz, please don't go."
"Eda, I'm going. I feel like in some way, it's my fault she's here. I suggested the idea of coming here anyway." Luz pulled away from Eda's grip. "If you choose to come with me, then fine. But you won't talk me out of this."
Amity stood up, and got in front of Luz, "Eda's right, Luz. It's way too risky to go trying to interfere with some thousand pound aliens. I'm sure she can fight her own battles without any help, she's the empress of an entire empire after all. If you won't listen to Eda, at least listen to me."
Luz looked around, thinking, "I'm…still going. Sorry." She walked over to Hooty, "Hooty. Help me down, will you?"
"Then I'm coming with you!" Amity shouted.
"Oh what the heck, me too. I'll just sit back and watch probably." King added.
"Same here!" Hooty exclaimed.
They all looked at Eda, waiting for her answer. Eda sighed, "Fine, I'll go too. But if things go south, we're booking it outta there." Everyone nodded, and they all hopped on Hooty who helped them down onto the street below. "Do you even know where she is?"
"It looked like they were still near the parade ground. I saw Kikimora's float. Or what was left of it. That's not too far from here." Luz responded.
"Then let's go!" Amity yelled as they all ran back to the parade ground.
Caiatl and Za'aurk were still battling, and neither were showing signs of giving up. They were both a good distance away from each other, regathering their stamina. "You should have brought reinforcements, Caiatl. Your father was always right. You are very stubborn."
Caiatl scowled, "Your mouth has more fight in it than the rest of your body, scum. Shut it, and fight me." Caiatl bared her hammer once more, getting ready to attack Za'aurk until she heard another voice.
"Caiatl!" Luz called out.
Caiatl looked to where the voice came from, "Human?" She saw Luz standing atop a roof alone. "What are you doing here?!" She yelled out.
"I'm here to help you!" Luz responded.
"No! This is my fight! Do not interfere, human!"
"Get the human out of here!" Za'aurk yelled at the idle Loyalists. They all rushed to get to Luz.
Luz activated a glyph to turn herself invisible, losing the Cabal before they could even get to her. She managed to get off the roof unscathed, succeeding in distracting them. She called out to Caiatl once more, "Caiatl! Get ready to turn around!"
Caiatl was reluctant at first, but nonetheless heeded Luz's words. She stayed in a defensive position until told to turn around.
"Now guys!" Luz yelled out to the others.
"Hey, behind you!" King yelled out to Za'aurk, getting his attention. Once Za'aurk turned around, King started running, "Bet you can't catch me!"
"What is this?!" Za'aurk yelled out. He chased King a little ways down the street who led him to a giant piece of paper with a drawing of a light glyph on it.
"Caiatl, turn around now!" Luz yelled out. Caiatl turned around, barely catching a glimpse of the light.
"What?" Za'aurk unknowingly stepped on the paper, unleashing a large sphere of light, blinding the Primus. The other Loyalists were also partially blinded by the light, having to cover their eyes. Amity, wearing sunglasses, spawned an abomination to hold Za'aurk in place as the glyph started to wear off.
"Now run, Caiatl!" Luz shouted as she began running away.
Caiatl looked back for a brief moment, getting bombarded with light, catching a glimpse of the restrained primus. She hesitantly followed Luz, running after her. Amongst all the commotion, Vruzra revealed herself once more, and followed Caiatl, hearing that she was running away.
Amity and the others ran away from Za'aurk and the Loyalists to rendezvous with Luz and Caiatl.
Freeing himself from the abomination, Za'aurk chopped its head off and stabbed it over and over until it dissolved. The light had finally dissipated, and Za'aurk rose up. Unscathed, but his vision was impaired. He could barely see out of one of his eyes, effectively making him blind in one eye. He felt his helmet, and burned his hand upon doing so. The Loyalists came down to help Za'aurk and check on him. He got up, moving them out of the way. "Find them! Bring them all to me!" He barked. The Loyalists all spread out in a rush, looking for Caiatl and the others.
They were already nearly long gone out of the town. Caiatl, Luz and Vruzra all stopped in the forest. Luz took notice of Vruzra, and was startled by her presence, "Ah! Who are you?!"
"That is Vruzra, my advisor. But she is not the main concern here." Caiatl said angrily, "My concern is you! Why did you come to my aid? It was dangerous! Any one of them could have exterminated you right then and there!"
"I just wanted to help you! I couldn't leave you alone! Even if you did win your duel, who knows what he would have done?" Luz retaliated. She softened her voice, getting quieter. "I know we just met and…I shouldn't care this much, but I didn't want anything to happen to you."
"It doesn't matter. I've been…dishonored. Running from battle, it is the worst thing my people could do."
"Your people wouldn't have an empress if you got captured, or even worse, killed! I did what I thought was right." Luz noticed Caiatl's wounds, "Hey, are you hurt?"
"Pay no mind to my wounds, they will heal over time." Caiatl responded as she turned around, "Vruzra, with me." She turned around, "I…am grateful for your help, human." She started walking back to her ship.
"Wait!" Luz yelled out, "At least let me help you with your wounds!"
Caiatl stopped, "I said, pay no mind to them, human. For your own sake."
"I'm not letting you go back to wherever you came from with those wounds." Luz said sternly.
"You should listen to the human, my empress. I have seen wounds before. Those will not heal naturally." Vruzra suggested.
Caiatl sighed heavily, "I believe myself to be…under your debt, human. I will come with you."
"Well, I wouldn't call it a debt. Just more of an IOU. Y'know?"
"Yes…of course."
"Now follow me, I'll lead the way to where I live." Luz said happily as she led Caiatl back to the Owl House.
Before Caiatl followed, she spoke to Vruzra, "Return to the ship, Vruzra. Inform the guards of what has happened, and tell them to be on high alert." Vruzra walked to the ship, and Caiatl followed Luz.
After a while, Caiatl and Luz arrived at the house where the others were waiting for them.
Amity ran up to Luz, "Luz! You made it out safe!" She hugged her.
Luz hugged Amity back, "Yeah. It was really risky, but worth it. I'm happy to see you guys got out safe too."
"Good call on the giant light glyph, Luz! I don't think Amity's abomination could have kept him there long enough if it weren't for that." King exclaimed.
"Sorry I doubted you kid." Eda said, "Now are you gonna introduce us to your friend here?"
Luz got ready to explain, "Oh yeah! This is-" She was interrupted.
Caiatl stopped Luz, "It is fine, human. I can introduce myself." She dropped her hammer on the ground, "I am Empress Caiatl of the Cabal Empire. I am from a realm much different, and am more than unfamiliar with this one. I have come here in search of my father, who was freed by the human and her friends. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find any trace of him during my encounter with the Loyalist commander. But his presence here almost certainly means my father is here."
"You're searching for your father, huh? But why?" Eda asked, curiously.
Before Caiatl could talk, Luz interrupted. "Basically he's an evil space emperor who's a really bad leader, and she doesn't want him to do those things anymore. And now that he's in the Demon Realm, he's gonna do those things here." Luz looked up and smiled at Caiatl, "Saved ya a long explanation."
"...Yes, originally, I never even planned to follow him here, or to find him. I was going to wait until he found his way to me. Back in my realm, my forces found a signal that would take us to Calus, and that led us here."
"I never asked. How exactly did you get here? In the Demon Realm, I mean." Amity asked.
"I think we should save all the other questions for another time, guys. She's hurt." Luz pointed to Caiatl's wounds.
"I have something just for that!" Eda said out loud. She ran into the house, and grabbed bandages. "Bandages! From the Human Realm!" She gave Luz and Amity some of the bandage fabric for Caiatl's leg. "Hooty, help me up." Eda hopped on to Hooty.
"Okay! Hoot!" The owl demon yelled out as he raised Eda up to Caiatl's wound. Eda wrapped the bandages around her arm tight, while Luz and Amity wrapped up her leg.
"You should be good as new in a few days, empress!" Luz said.
"Don't go getting slashed again." Eda added, as she descended back to the ground.
"Your help is most appreciated. I will make sure to repay my debt to you, human. To all of you, one day." Caiatl responded.
Luz walked up, "Don't mention it. So, where will you go now?"
Caiatl thought for a moment, "For the night, I will stay here. The Loyalists will be searching for you. Even with your magic, you will be no match for them if they come at you with their entire garrison. I'll take it upon myself to protect this place, and you all for the time being."
"Really? You'd do that for us?!" Luz asked, surprised.
"Until everything blows over, yes." Caiatl responded.
Luz raised her arms in the air, "Alright! Alien sleepover, kinda. Hey, Amity. I uh, think you should stay too. You shouldn't go into town alone, y'know? Especially after everything that's happened." She suggested.
"I guess you're right. My parents won't mind. Or I guess my dad won't. But that doesn't matter, if it means I get to stay with you, then that's fine with me." Amity responded.
Eda yawned, "I'm getting tired, I'll see you guys in the morning. If I wake up, that is." She walked into the house with Hooty, and King followed
"Goodnight, Caiatl. We'll see you tomorrow." Luz said as she walked into the house, Amity followed her.
"You've proven yourselves to be warriors, despite being unorthodox in battle. But can I trust you as an ally?" Caiatl said to herself. "I'll see in due time." She grabbed her hammer, and walked over to a nearby tree, and sat down in front of it, laying her back on it. Relaxed, but vigilant as ever.
Meanwhile, on the uncharted island. Calus was planning his next scheme. "After all these years. Everything is falling into place." He was at the site of his former imprisonment. "In this very location I stood vacant, but aware." He dug up a broken mirror, one identical to that of Belos's. With this, he summoned the Collector.
"Hey there, buddy! It's been a while! A real long while!" Collector said exuberantly.
"Collector. It is time that old plans are realized. We draw ever closer to success, my friend. All I need is your help."
"Hmmm. I guess I still owe you after what you did for me, huh?"
"Indeed you do. And that is why I require your assistance."
"And what is it that ya need?"
"I need…a bigger portal."
And that's it! This is my biggest chapter yet, 26 whole pages, which compared to some other work I've seen, isn't a whole lot. This is a record for me anyway. I hope you all enjoyed reading this chapter. See ya all in the next one.