Ding ding. Ding ding... Ding ding. Ding ding... Ding ding. Ding ding.

“Yes. Cyanide.” A monotonous voice answered- draped in silk.

“Lucero!” Cyanide’s tar-laden voice rang out. “I got some info for you.”

“Will it make up for your screw-up?” Lucero asked.

“Oh, it will.” Cyanide snickered.

“Confidence. I like it.” A chair squeaked. “Tell me about this info then.”

Cyanide cleared his throat; it led to a coughing first. “Gah, Sorry.” Silence on the other line. Clearing his throat once more, “There was a man once, before my time, who caused big trouble for the 10 great guilds. Video of his death got a number of views too. I think you have his swords? You've mentioned it once... maybe twice before.”

“... Go on.”

“He’s back.” Seriousness returned to Cyanide. “Goes by Anodos now. Got a little gang going for himself now.”

“He’s back, huh.” Lucero pondered for a moment. “Do you have proof?”

“Got it all on tape.” Cyanide said with pride. “Kal's reaction always gets me. I've watched it 20 times at this point.” he cackled.

“Kalel was involved?” Lucero asked, surprised. A moment of static. “Good work, Cyanide. Send me the video.”

“Of course, of course. I believe this covers for my men messing up?” Cyanide questioned with hope.

Lucero exhaled, deep and slow. “Make sure you fix it, Cyanide. I don't want to hear about this ever again.”

“Consider it done.”

“Don’t mess this up, Cyanide.”

“A warning or a threat?”

“Take it as you please. As long as you get the job done.”

“Hah! I’ll talk to you later.”

Ding. Cyanide ended the call. Lucero stared at the Age of Divinity forum. Post after post after post, with hundreds of likes talking about Skull Kidds clearing out the entrance of Aria's Mountain Range, each getting progressively more scathing and hostile. He unsheathed a sword which hung from his hip- a curved blade with a blue hue and patterning resembling Damascus steel. Shrouded in darkness, all the blade reflected were his deep red eyes.

***

“The Skull Kidds, I see you brought one of them here as well. Is this about the little incident at the

mountain ranges?” Himmel examined Skullcracker.

“Well,” Clark began. “We don’t really-”

“I–u-um have some information on it.” Skullcracker interrupted. Clark’s mouth hung. A change of plans.

“Skull…” Himmel squinted. “Craker. Charming name, go on.”

“Okay.” Skullcraker felt Clark’s eyes on him. With a deep breath, “So, um, the person who got

everyone together to go to the ranges, his name is Boom. He didn't mention who they were attacking but he talked about it in our skycord server.” Skullcracker’s leg shook. “I-I wasn't online at the time, so, I couldn't join them, or know. I swear.” he bobbed his head.

“Why are you here with the leader of Blue Lightning then?” Himmel clasped his hands, resting his chin on it.

“I asked him to testify.” Clark stepped in.

“Kalel. Let him speak.” Himmel said, calm. “Skullcracker.” He gestured with his hand to the orc.

“It-it was as Mr. Kal said.” Skullcracker looked to Clark who had a smile on his face. “I got to know him after escorting Anodos and Mr. Kal to meet my boss. When I came online today, An-” Clark nudged Skullcrakers leg, still smiling. “Mr. Kal asked if I could talk to you about the guild.” he corrected.

“And how do you know Kalel, Anodos.” Himmel shifted his attention to Zein,

“I-”

“He's a friend of mine. In real life. A close friend of mine, in fact.”

“I didn’t take you to be a man who spoke over others, Kalel.” Himmel said, tone unchanging.

“I would prefer if you didn't interrogate my friends.” Clark snarled.

“Alright, I’ll back off if that’s what you want.” Himmel straightened himself. “But if that's all there is to the story, then I am sorry but I can't do much for you.”

“What do you mean you can't do much!?” Clark slammed his fists into his thighs. “You and your guild are the strongest in the goddamn game! These people are clearly abusing the newer players and you're just gonna sit on your ass and do nothing?”

“We have our hands full with Babel, Kalel.” Himmel crossed his arms. “If you want to discuss this some more, bring it up at the guild leader meeting.” he said, unmoved.

“So much for being chivalrous.” Clark scoffed. “I got 3 people here who were extorted and bullied by them and a guy on the inside confirming their 30-man hit on some random adventurers!” Clark’s hands went haywire, almost bumping into Zein.

“It'll be war with Ophis if we take action. Something I'd rather not do while, again, we are busy with figuring out Babel. I'm sorry boys but, I can't help.” Clark tightened his cross, hints of emotion coming through.

“You ain’t shit.” Jejj said, annoyance written on their face. “Callin' yourself Himmel and can't even be a hero.” they snorted.

“Oogie! Oogie oogie. Oogie.” Wu jumped on Zein’s shoulder.

Your friends... And monkey seem lovely, Kalel.” Himmel rested his arms on his desk.

“Don't you give me that shit.” Clark retorted. “I can't believe you're still unwilling to take any action after learning about 3 victims and a witness.” he rolled his eyes.

“Well, 3 victims, care to explain what happened?” Himmel asked.

Jejj sighed “Got a fee for a dungeon. Thought it stupid and entered. Got my ass beat and left. They gave chase- almost killed me. That's where I met Anodos.” they explained.

“Right, the dungeon fee.” Himmel played with his ring. Zein’s eyebrows furrowed. “Alright, what happened next?”

“We escaped into the dungeon. Beat it. Got out.”

“You two beat the dungeon? Alone?”

“Took awhile but yeah.”

“It’s why I plan on recruiting them to my guild.” Clark smirked.

“He does seem impressive… so does Anodos.” Himmel studied the Zein. “What's your side of the story, Anodos.”

“Whatever they said.” Zein pointed to Jejj with his thumb. “They tried to player kill so they could get our items and we didn't let them. It led to me being summoned by their guild leader and a warning was handed out.” he shrugged.

“Oogie?” Wu looked befuddled. Was this why he was asked to remain with Skullcracker?

“Cyanide didn't ask for anything in return?”

“No.” Zein answered.

“I made sure he didn't take anything.” Clark added.

“I hope this is all there is to the story.” Himmel sighed.

“Why? You don't trust me?”

“I don't think you want to know the answer to that, Kalel.”

“You're a real piece of work.”

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Torell raised his hand to speak. “I-I hav-ve something to sh-share.” he nodded.

“Speak your mind, Tore-ell.” Himmel replied.

“Th-thank you. I-I also got some money taken a-as a fee. A-and they were mean to me when I was looking f-for party members to do the Aria Mountain Ranges raid.”Torell stared at the floor- his breathing heavy. Jejj kept a hand on his shoulder, attempting to relax him.

“The usual then. Alright, I've heard you all out. I apologise but I can't be of help. We can't be everywhere at once.” Himmel leaned forward, gazing upon his desperate guests.

“You could easily coalesce the rest of the 10 great guilds to take out Ophis. Just like you did with Zeika.” Zein felt a twinge in his heart. “But I guess it's easier to bully a single man compared to a guild, huh.” Clark spat.

“Don't you dare bring him up!” Himmel slammed the table. “ I'm warning you Kalel. Do not cross that line!” he pointed, teeth on full display. Himmel took a second to gather himself. “Ophis has support within the 10 greats, their own little faction as you know. If we fight them, we fight all of them. It'd be an all-out war. Something no one wants.” he exhaled.

“Oogie…” Wu shivered. He crawled into Zein’s lap, pulling his robe over to hide himself.

“This good guy act you put up is insufferable you know that?”

“I'm sorry for yelling, um, Wu.” Himmel apologised with sincerity. “Kalel, if you've come here to insult me while I made time out of my schedule to listen to you first thing in the morning then I'd much rather you take your leave.” he tightened his fists.

“I'm trying to reason with you, Himmel. We need to keep Aria safe from these people so newer players joining the game have fun.” Clark pleaded.

Himmel sighed. “I love the passion, Kalel, but we won't be helping. We simply do not have the resources.” Himmel thinned his lips.

“You had the resources before Babel! You had them! You're just a-” Clark controlled himself. He calmed himself. “Come on, we're getting out of here.”

Clark shot out of his seat, storming to the door. Skullcracker looked back and forth before rushing to Clark's side. Jejj displayed no emotion as they arranged their seats to align with the others. Torell bowed to Himmel who returned his gesture with a sharp nod. The elf and the orc walked to the door, leaving the cat with a frightened monkey behind.

“Would you like to share some kind words as well?”

Zein gazed upon his former foe. Upon the ring which sat on his finger. Upon his tired eyes. “Babel is lovely, isn't it? I hope you find whatever it is you're looking for.” he replied.

“Oogie.” Wu peeked from behind the robe.

“Why thank you. I appreciate it.” the ends of Himmel’s mouth curled.

Zein blinked slow, collecting himself. He left his seat with Wu, cradled in his hands, and joined the rest of the party at the door. Clark held the door open, allowing them to walk out. With one last glare, Clark slammed the door shut.

Seconds passed before Reol peeked in, entering Himmel's office and gently closing the door behind them.

“How did it go?” Reol asked. “Kalel and his party don't seem pleased.”

“Horrid. Kalel wanted me to take action against the Skull Kidds. He brought victims of their abuse, apparently…”Himmel fell into his chair. “Tell me... Am I making the right decision by not wanting to take them out?” he wondered.

“If we took action, the game would be unplayable for anyone not in the 10 great guilds.” Reol answered, fiddling with their tab. “Whether it's right or not, that's something you need to figure out.”

“Well, that’s not very nice of you now is it.” Himmel fell further.

“I’m your secretary, Himmel, not your advisor. I’m sure Rhodes can help there.” Reol glanced over. “I will say, however, if I was in your position, I'd make the same call.”

“I'll accept that. Thank you, Reol.” Himmel fixed his posture.

“Anytime. Now look at these reports.” Reol tossed the tab containing a map of Babel with markers.

Like a storm, Clark made his presence felt. Skada, seated on a sofa by Rhodes, noticed the guild leader. “I- gotta go. My friends are back. It was nice speaking with you! I hope we get to speak again, cutie.”

“Any day, any hour, any minute, any second, mademoiselle.” Rhodes kissed her hand. “If you need anything, you have my skycord.” he smiled.

Skada jogged while waving goodbye to the wolf man whose canines shone bright through his smile. Reaching the party, her smile faded, shifting to concern.

“What happened!? Is everything okay? Wu seems pale!” Skada caressed his cheek. “You guys seem super annoyed too!” she checked on the rest.

“Let's talk outside, don't want to speak about it here.” Clark replied, attempting to keep his emotions in check.

“Oh okay.” Skada looked to Jejj. Jejj did not return the favour.

Together, they rushed out the door and into the bustling, tar-laden streets. The buildings grew smaller and more worn down the further they ran. Adventurers went from carrying the scales of dragons on their chests to simple mammoth leather. The party of six scurried into an alleyway, taking a second to reorientate themselves.

“Can someone tell me what’s going on?” Skada stomped her foot. “I am not liking the mood right now.” she huffed.

“Guild Chivalry won't be stopping Skull Kidd's activities.” Clark’s anger seeped into his words.

“Excuse me!?” Skada said, shocked.

Clark explained further, detailing how their conversation turned into an argument. How Himmel interrogated them. How Himmel brushed them off. How Himmel looked down on them. Skada's face soured, disappointment filling her body.

“I’m sorry you guys. I didn’t expect them to be so…” Skada didn’t know how to continue.

“That's just what happens when you run the largest guild in the game.” Clark sat down, stretching his legs. “There was a part of me which believed he'd take action. How wrong I was.” he looked away in scorn.

“Why this shit so political? Feels gross.”Jejj groaned.

“Unfortunate, isn’t it?”Zein smiled somberly.

“Money flows like water for these guilds.” Clark drew circles on the ground. “I’m talking millions of dollars. Our guild makes a decent amount too, even if it isn’t our focus.” he explained, drawing a smile within the circle.

“I was so scared! If you guys weren't there... I don't know if I would have survived.” Skullcraker held himself.

“M-me neither.” Torell added. “I didn’t like that one bit.”

“Oogie oogie…” Wu hugged Zein, burying his head on his summoner’s neck. Zein’s soft fur calmed the monkey’s breathing; it lulled him to sleep.

“I'm sorry guys. Feels like my fault for dragging you guys into this.” Clark stared at his drawing. “But, if you don't wanna experience all this stuff you can always join my guild!” he looked to everyone with a smile as wide as the ocean.

“Don't promote your guild right now.” Zein slapped the back of Clark’s head.

“Alright alright.” Clark used Zein’s arm to pick himself up, almost dragging him to the floor. “In any case, what are you your guy’s skycords!?” Clark asked, hands on his waist.

“About time.” Jejj punched Zein’s shoulder. He laughed apologetically.

“Yippee! I like that idea!” Skada clapped.

Exchanging skycord information with each other, Clark added zzzeika, Skelowl, krug girl, jejejeje, supaman, and Blade to a group chat.

“Now, we can all chat with each other!” Clark said, impressed with himself. “Plus I can update on you if anything happens to Skull Kidds.” he snickered.

“Um- What should I do? I don’t think I can go back to my guild…” Skullcracker asked, unsure.

“Oh right. They most likely know by now. I’ll take you to my guild, we got a room you can set as your save point.” Clark patted Skullcracker’s back.

“O-okay.” Skullcracker nodded.

“Why ain’t we go to yo’ guild in the first place?” Jejj questioned.

“Isn’t this more fun!” Clark laughed. “That reminds me, ya boy needs to change back.” he pointed to himself with his thumbs. “What are the rest of ya gonna do?”

“I’m going to log out and head to bed.” Zein replied.

“Jejj!” Skada startled the elf. “Do you wanna come to my workshop!?”

“Hmm-uhhh-well…” Jejj stared at Skada who blinked profusely. “Okay.” they cleared their throat.

“C-can I-”

“You’re coming with me big guy.” Clark wrapped his arm around Torell, bringing him to himself and Skullcraker. “Alright, Zeizei, goodnight. I'll see ya guys tomorrow!” Clark waved while dragging Skullcracker and Torell to the main street.

“Goodnight, Anodos!” Torell twisted his neck to see Zein.

“Goodnight!” Skullcracker waved with energy.

“Bye Anodos! I’ll see you tomorrow, hopefully!” Skada giggled, holding Jejj’s hand.

“Send me those videos.” Jejj held their hand out.

“Will do.” Zein dapped them up. “Goodnight Wu.” he brought the monkey to his face.

“Oogie!” Wu shot his arms into the air.

Wu and Zein turned to Blue pixels. Each returning to their own world.

Zein freed himself from his spacequest, placing it by his side. His eyes seemed dead as he stared at the ceiling fan, head empty. He tilted his head to the side, making his glasses fall to the tip of his nose. Zein was drawn to a picture of a young boy and his father by a bookshelf. They both were beaming.

Zein began to well up, his throat blocking the safe passage of air. He tried to stop it, desperately so. Whether squeezing his eyes with the base of his palm or trying to control his breathing, Zein then realised it would be a long night.

***

Light turned to darkness with the switch of a button at Rich’s Sports Ware. Zein exited the store with an excited Clark, more so than usual.

“Zeizei! Take me to-”

“No.”

“But I wanna talk to you!” Clark frowned, unlocking the door to his car.

“We’re going to be talking on Age anyway.” Zein dug through his bag, ensuring nothing was left behind. “Unless you’re not logging on?” he raised an eyebrow.

“Aww, you gonna miss me? You’re gonna miss me aren’tcha.” Clark poked his cheek. Zein swatted it. “I’ll be logging on just for you okay.” he opened the car’s door. “However, I do need to speak with you. In person. It’s important.”

“You didn’t want to talk about it in the locker room?” Zein rested a hand on his waist.

“It slipped my mind.” Clark ruffled his hair.

“Are you sure this is important?” Zein inquired, concerned.

“Yes. Trust me, it is.” Clark leaned on the car door's window.

Zein paused, studying his friend’s face. “Alright, I know a nearby park. Let’s go there.”

“Alright!” Clark pumped his fists. “Come on, hop in! Come on come on come on!” he motioned to Zein, shutting the door behind him.

Zein stared at the purple T*y*ta, sighing. Begrudgingly, Zein entered the passenger side, strapping his seatbelt. Clark, hand on the steering wheel with no belt in sight, revved his engine.

“You ready!?” Clark’s eyes sparkled.

“Ye-” In a flash, the car took to the streets, throwing Zein back into his seat. “Take it easy, Clark. We still have to follow the rules.” he checked the tyre tracks through the rearview mirror.

“Yes yes yes I won't be breaking any laws.”

“Seatbelt?”

“I will be breaking exactly one law.” Clark raised a finger.

“Moron.” Zein shook his head, unable to hold back his smile. “So tell me, what was it you wanted to talk about?”

“Okay. Okay, this is good. Okay.” Clark took deep breaths.

Confusion grew on Zein’s face. “Uhhh- hello?”

“Hm? Yes. Well.” Clark cleared his throat. “I would like to upload the 30 v 5 battle to You-be.”

Mouth agape, Zein was stunned into silence.