Zeldritzon [Cycle 11] - Dusking Skies

----------------------------------------

Current Location:

[UvoSath Forest of the UvoSath Region]

----------------------------------------

The journey back to the Crystal Shelter was anything but direct. It took longer than KiAera anticipated.

Despite the promise of rest at the end of their journey, her companions were visibly dragging. Saptal and Sapshorla leaned heavily on each other, their plant-like forms wilting slightly with exhaustion. Amber hopped forward in fits and starts, pausing often to peck at random leaves or inspect curious rocks. Big Osseod lumbered silently, while the smaller Osseods scurried close by, chittering amongst themselves. Dime the Dimetfern kept at the rear, and KiAera took notice of the creature's vigilance.

Through it all, KiAera's senses caught the subtle signs of the Nexperbax trio shadowing them. A flicker of pink or yellow fur among the trees, the faint sound of leathery wings catching the wind, or a burst of sound that carried on the breeze like an unspoken taunt.

They were close but never close enough to draw direct attention.

KiAera glanced toward Amber, whose feathers ruffled slightly. "You noticed them too?" she asked quietly.

Amber nodded, puffing up her chest. "LeeLee sees pink and yellow bats. Sneaky ones."

"Let them," KiAera murmured. "If they mean trouble, they'll show their hand soon enough."

KiAera's group finally came to a halt when she spotted the tunnel beneath a patch of foliage. It was one of the few burrows that the Plelepun built for emergencies for the crew. She knew that they led partially to the Crystal Shelter, and she wasn't taking any chances with Mina and Boggorc.

Three days… Twelve thousand crystals… They're bluffing, right? No one could expect that much. Still…

She shook the thought away and focused on the tunnel's entrance. "Let's head inside." Her gaze turned to the rustling sounds ahead. "If you want to join us, you may, but don't complain about the fact it's going to be cramped."

There was no response from the tree canopies, but the sound of shuffling and the silhouette of three bat creatures came to view. She smirked, her paw gesturing for her companions to follow. I'll mention to the Plelepun to close this one…

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

By the time the Crystal Shelter came into view and the weary group visibly perked up. The glowing crystalline walls radiated an inviting warmth. She appreciated the Plelepun's reconstruction efforts that had made it feel more like home—a strange one, but home nonetheless.

The moment they stepped inside, the Nexperbax triplets finally revealed themselves. Nex was the first to drop in, landing lightly on the ground and folding his wings with a practiced air of nonchalance. Nexsis followed, her hot-pink streaks gleaming in the shelter's light as she whistled a jaunty tune that sent a few loose objects tumbling into the air before gently settling. Nexbro brought up the rear, hovering awkwardly near the entrance, his yellow-streaked fur standing slightly on end.

KiAera raised a brow, crossing her arms. "Finally decided to stop sneaking around?"

Nex shrugged, offering a lopsided grin. "Didn't want to scare you off before we got a good look at your digs. Nice place, by the way. Cozier than I thought it'd be."

Nexsis didn't waste a second, plopping herself onto one of the softer moss-covered rugs with a dramatic sigh. "Not bad, not bad! Plenty of space. Looks like you could host a whole party in here."

Nexbro, meanwhile, lingered by the door, nervously wringing his claws. "Uh, Nexsis… maybe we should ask before, um, you know… taking over their space?"

Nexsis waved him off. "Relax, Nexbro. We're just crashing for a bit, right, Meresis?"

KiAera's ears flicked. She fixed Nexsis with a measured look. "As long as 'crashing' doesn't mean freeloading. If you're staying, you'll pull your weight—starting tomorrow."

Nexbro's face lit up with relief, but Nexsis simply grinned. "Deal. Just don't expect me to wake up early."

As if to emphasize her point, she sprawled out on the rug, stretching her wings with a satisfied yawn. Nexbro hesitated for a moment before finding a corner to settle in, while Nex chose to remain aloof, perching high on one of the wooden beams that spanned the ceiling.

Watching the trio settle in, KiAera couldn't help but compare them to rowdy teenagers staking their claim in a space that didn't quite belong to them. Nexsis was the bold and rebellious one, full of charisma but likely the first to test boundaries. Nexbro seemed timid and unsure, clinging to the others for a sense of direction. And Nex... he was the self-proclaimed leader, distant and brooding, with an edge of hostility that made her fur bristle.

"They're like kids," KiAera muttered under her breath. "Except these kids can fly and stir up hurricanes."

Amber cocked her head. "LeeLee thinks pink-bat is fun, yellow-bat is nervous, and black-bat is grumpy."

KiAera smirked. "That about sums it up."

As her companions began settling into their usual spots, KiAera couldn't ignore Nex's piercing gaze from above. He hadn't said much since they'd arrived, but his watchful presence was hard to miss. She met his eyes briefly, noting the way his expression darkened when she didn't look away first.

What was it about her that set him on edge? His siblings had warmed up to her quickly enough, but Nex remained distant, almost antagonistic. Fine, she thought. If he's waiting for me to crack, he's in for a long wait.

Letting out a quiet sigh, KiAera turned her attention back to her crew. For now, she'd focus on ensuring everyone was fed and rested. Tomorrow, the real challenges would begin.

But a nagging, ever persistent thought kept her mind flashing back to the Kobolbos. She needed to talk with Scarbol.

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

By the time she exited the Crystal Shelter, her ears twitched at the sound of muffled laughter and chatter coming from the den the Kobolbos had claimed. The faint glow of the moon illuminated their homely quarters. A wave of relief washed over her as she spotted the familiar forms of the kobold monsters.

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

Creature: Scarbol the Kobolbo

APeX Power: [1330 Units]

Attributes: [Brawl] [Cryptic]

Variant Grade: [Common]

Evolution Stage: [Fledgling]

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

Creature: Tailza the Kobolbo

APeX Power: [980 Units]

Attributes: [Brawl] [Cryptic]

Variant Grade: [Common]

The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.

Evolution Stage: [Fledgling]

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

Scarbol was seated near the entrance, sharpening a jagged piece of bone with a look of quiet focus. Tailza scurried nearby, organizing a bundle of fibers into crude decorations, humming softly to herself. The sight brought a small smile to KiAera's face, but her heart remained heavy. She had to know the truth. "Scarbol," she called softly, stepping into the den.

He looked up, his scarred eyelids narrowing briefly before recognition softened his gaze. "KiAera. You're back."

Tailza froze, her hands clutching a bundle of moss. "M-Miss KiAera!" she stammered, hastily setting her work aside and bowing awkwardly. "W-welcome back!"

KiAera waved a paw dismissively, her ears twitching in amusement. "Relax, Tailza. I'm not here to inspect your work. It looks great, by the way."

Tailza flushed, mumbling incoherent thanks as she darted further into the den.

Scarbol watched the exchange with a faint smirk before turning his attention back to KiAera. "What brings you here?" he asked, though his tone suggested he already suspected her intent.

KiAera crouched down. "I met someone today. Two someones, actually. They seem… particularly interested in you."

Scarbol's smirk vanished, replaced by a grim expression. He set down the bone shard and met her gaze evenly. "Who?"

"Monsters named Mina and Boggorc," KiAera replied. "They mentioned something about your past. Said you'd rebelled, brought disgrace to them. I need to know what they're talking about. If I'm going to help, I need to know the truth."

Scarbol was silent for a long moment, his features unreadable. The other Kobolbos had gathered subtly, their wide eyes watching the exchange with nervous curiosity. Finally, Scarbol leaned back, exhaling through his nose. "If you want the truth," he began, poking toward his chest, "I'll tell you. But you might not like what you hear.”

"I can handle it," KiAera said firmly.

Scarbol nodded, his gaze distant as he began. "I was born into servitude, like all Kobolbos under the Minokaurbo. We were tools to them—digging for crystals, building their lairs, fighting their battles. Our lives meant nothing. But I was different. I could see the chains, even when others couldn't. I wanted something more, something better."

His claws tightened around his knees. "I tried to organize an escape. I spoke to the others, convinced them we could break free if we worked together. Some listened, but most were too afraid. The Minokaurbo caught wind of my plan before it could come to fruition. They made an example of me—whipped me, scarred me, and forced me to watch as they punished those who dared to stand with me."

KiAera's chest tightened as she imagined the scene. The scars on Scarbol's body suddenly felt heavier.

He paused, his claws digging into the floor as if the memory physically pained him. "I was no different from the others back then. I worked, I obeyed, and I believed that was all there was to life. Until I saw one of my own beaten to death for failing to gather enough crystals."

KiAera's breath hitched, but she said nothing, letting him continue.

"That's when I realized… they didn't even see us as living beings. We were disposable to them." His voice grew heavier, the words almost bitter. "I started speaking out again, quietly at first. Whispering to my kin that we deserved better. That we could fight back. For a while, I thought I was making a difference. I thought I could inspire them."

He paused, his gaze drifting to the crystalline ceiling. "I couldn't take it anymore. When I saw an opportunity to escape, I took it. I rallied a few others, fought our way out. But not all of us made it." His voice wavered, and he clenched his fists. "The ones who didn't… they paid the price for my defiance."

KiAera's chest tightened. "And now they want you back. To make an example of you."

Scarbol nodded. "They won't stop. Not until I'm dead or broken."

His gaze flicked to KiAera, his golden eyes burning with defiance. "That's why I'll die before I go back."

A soft sniffle interrupted them. KiAera turned to see Tailza standing nearby, wringing her hands.

"I-I'm sorry," Tailza stammered. "I didn't mean to eavesdrop. I just… I know what it’s like."

KiAera gestured for her to come closer, and Tailza hesitantly approached, clutching her broom like a shield.

"I-I was there too," she said. "Scarbol… he saved me. I was s-so scared, but he told me I-I could be free. I followed him, even when the others wouldn't. H-he protected me, even when I slowed him down."

Her hands clutched her chest. "I owe him my life. W-we all do."

KiAera looked around at the Kobolbos, their expressions a mixture of fear and admiration. Her resolve hardened.

"Thank you for telling me," she said, her voice steady. "Scarbol, Tailza… all of you. I won't let them take you. Not now, not ever."

Scarbol regarded her silently for a moment before nodding. "If they come for us, we'll fight," he said simply. "But I trust you, KiAera. If you have a plan, I'll follow it."

KiAera stood. "Then let's start preparing. We've got three days to figure this out."

The Kobolbos nodded, their fear replaced by a flicker of hope. KiAera vowed to do whatever it took to protect them. "Jalkra, whoever you are... I'll be ready for you."

꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱꒰ᐢ. .ᐢ꒱

During the same night…

The makeshift base of the Minokaurbo and Boarbogrunt duo sat within the hollow of a ruined stone temple. Vines twisted along the walls, punctuated by clusters of glowing blue crystals embedded in the stone, casting a faint light. At its heart stood a pulsating, dark green crystal the size of a small boulder—a communication device linking them directly to their superior, Jalkra the Great Minokaurbo.

Mina planted her feet before the crystal, her arms crossed over her chest. She let out an annoyed snort as Boggorc knelt beside her, his hulking form bowing low with a reverence that bordered on worship.

The crystal flickered, then lit up with an emerald glow. Slowly, the image of Jalkra emerged, sitting cross-legged on what appeared to be a throne of jagged black stone. He leaned back, one hand holding a gleaming, crystalline apple, which he bit into with lazy nonchalance. His horns framed a ruggedly handsome yet dangerous face. His red eyes gleamed with amusement as they settled on Mina.

"Well, look who decided to check in," Jalkra drawled in a rich baritone. "'Mina', Boggorc. Tell me you've got good news, or you're about to entertain me with excuses."

Mina scowled, the sneer on her face twitching. "Boss, we've got something," she said, her tone far less formal. "We found the Kobolbo leader—and his so-called liberator."

At the word "liberator," Jalkra raised an eyebrow. He took another bite of his apple. "A liberator, huh? Go on."

"Great Jalkra," Boggorc rumbled. "We located the Kobolbo leader's group. They've allied themselves with a Merecritt—a clever one."

"A Merecritt, you say? That's unusual. Describe it."

Mina straightened, crossing her arms. "It's small, like a critter," she began. "Grayish fur, extendable ears. Crafty as hell. Tried to negotiate for the Kobolbo leader's freedom—offered to pay an absurd price. Clearly thinks it's smarter than it is."

She continued with a grin. "Claims she'll bring us twelve thousand crystals for the runt."

“Twelve thousand?” The Oni monster at Jalkra's side—another Minokaurbo with dark green hair and black horns—snorted in disbelief. "You're wasting time haggling with critters now, 'Mina'? Guess that's why you took your sweet time getting back. Don't tell me the no-name Minokaurbo warrior can't handle a bunny-rat."

Mina's grin faltered, and her brow furrowed as she turned to glare at the Oni. "Watch your tongue, Grezt. I don't answer to you." She turned back to the boss. "This Merecritt isn't ordinary. She's got as much guts as smarts."

"Oh, really?” came a melodic, scolding voice from Jalkra's other side. A Minokaurbo woman stepped into view, her horns adorned with golden filigree. She wore flowing robes of ivory and gold. "Mina, darling, you've let your prey slip through your fingers yet again. At this rate, the boss will have to send someone more competent."

Mina's hand twitched toward her club, but Jalkra raised a hand, silencing the bickering with a single gesture.

Jalkra chuckled as he waved his apple dismissively. "Enough, enough." His gaze turned back to Mina and Boggorc, lingering on the latter. “What's your take, Boggorc?"

Boggorc straightened. "The Merecritt is competent, Great Jalkra. She stalled us with negotiations, likely to buy time. Her companions are fiercely loyal to her. She's a potential threat if left unchecked."

Jalkra chuckled. "A threat, huh? Interesting." He held up the apple, inspecting it absently. "Mina, Boggorc. What about this Merecritt? Did she happen to have a certain… presence about her? Something different?"

Mina hesitated, then nodded. "Yeah, boss. Now that you mention it, she didn't seem like your run-of-the-mill critter. There was… something off."

"Interesting. Did it have a sigil on its forehead? Something… distinctive?"

Mina frowned, then lifted her hand, tracing the shape of the mark in the air. "Yeah, now that you mention it, it did. Looked like a star or something."

Silence followed. Gretz smirk faltered, and the robed Minokaurbo tilted her head in curiosity. Jalkra's laugh came abruptly, shattering the tension—but it was no longer a laugh of amusement. It was sharp, cutting, as though he were mocking the very idea.

"A star sigil, huh?" Jalkra said. "That's funny. Very funny. You see, Mina, that description happens to match something my mentor's been hunting for."

He raised the crystal apple, holding it aloft for a moment before his crimson hand closed around it. The crystal shattered with a deafening crack, shards falling from his fingers like splinters of green ice.

The robed Minokaurbo's eyes widened slightly. "Your mentor… that Grimgem Warlock?"

Mina and Boggorc exchanged uneasy glances.

Jalkra nodded. "The one and only. The old man's been obsessed with finding something like this. He told me to keep an eye out for a creature marked by a star. Said it was tied to something… metal." His gaze snapped back to Mina. "You sure about this sigil?"

Mina hesitated, but finally nodded. "Yeah, Boss. I'm sure."

Jalkra leaned back, steepling his fingers as a smile crept across his face. "Well, then. It seems our little hunt just got a whole lot more interesting. The Grimgem Warlock will want to hear about this. And if this Merecritt really is what he's after…"

His grin widened further. "Well, let's just say my mentor's plans might finally get interesting."

The robed Minokaurbo frowned her skepticism. "Do you really think this Merecritt is worth the Warlock's attention? Or is this just another one of his delusions?"

"Delusions or not it's not our place to question the Warlock. It's our job to deliver results. And if this Merecritt is what he's been looking for…" He leaned back in his throne. "Then we've just stumbled onto something much bigger than a few runaway Kobolbos."

He turned his attention back to Mina and Boggorc, his grin fading into a more serious expression. "Bring me the Merecritt. Alive. And if you can't manage that…" His horns glowed faintly. "Don't bother coming back."

"Yes, boss," Mina and Boggorc said in unison, bowing deeply before the projection flickered out, leaving them alone in the eerie of the dark green crystal.

As the silence settled, Mina shot a glare at Boggorc. "Well, you heard him. Let's go catch ourselves a bunny."