Skylar found herself staring at the fire once more confusion riddled upon her face, the door in this shed opened.

And that man wearing the gray shirt walked in, with a frown upon his face.

“You have some real bad luck, you know, we're the same in that regard.” The man started setting down some firewood near the right wall.

He then let out a sigh and walked over taking a seat next to me, “So? Tell me about what happened.”

Skylar found myself gripping the right side of the fabric of her shirt in frustration, “I… I tried to do something good… And it just ended up getting more people hurt. I was… scared.”

The man tilted his head to the side, a smile tugging on his lips, “Fear wouldn’t cause you to go berserk like that, not in most cases, I think it’s more accurate to say you felt… angry.”

“Angry…?” Skylar looked down to her shoes frowning for a moment, the image of Nero flashed through her head.

And she clasped her hands over her mouth lurching forward, attempting not to vomit, “I-I killed someone…”

The man looked back to the fire, “Remember what I told you about fire?” he questioned, arching a brow, “you let yours rage out of control. And someone paid the price for it.”

Skylar closed her eyes, wincing, “It’s… my fault…?”

The man frowned standing up, “People die. That’s a fact of life that we often overlook… It’s sad to think about but that’s just how it’s always worked. And in your line of work people will always die. That’s just something you're going to have to come to terms with.”

Skylar slowly opened her eyes looking at those flames, “But… I don’t want to hurt anyone else…”

The man knelt down putting a hand on Skylar’s shoulder, “Your kind. That’s not a bad thing, but if you keep being kind the world will consume you whole.” he then removed that hand from Skylar’s shoulder, pointing a finger at her heart, “But don’t let your heart be consumed by rage. The flames of revenge have a habit of consuming everything around them.”

Skylar looked at the man frowning, “I… Don’t think I understand…”

The man blinked, lowering his hand, “I’ll simplify it to a few rules then… Rule 1. For those who treat you with kindness, return that kindness to them. And Rule 2. Those who treat you will injustice, see that injustice returned tenfold.”

The mist began to fade away and the waking world began to call to Skylar once more.

***

Skylar’s eyes slowly opened, her gaze was still blurry and she wasn’t entirely sure how long she had been sleeping for.

Her eyes rapidly swapped between two colors, red and blue. Before settling on a crimson red for both eyes.

“You know with how often you pass out after battle they might have to put you on the bench.” Tetra spoke a sly smirk upon his face as he sat on a chair making sure it was pressed against the door.

Skylar blinked, still groggy from her rest, she glanced looking around before the memory’s of that day flashed through her head rapidly, the traveling.

The park.

…The death.

She looked down gripping the blanket that was draped over her, Tetra took note of this frowning bitterly, “Loss is something you're going to have to grow accustomed to in this line of work…” he said bitterly.

Skylar frowned looking over to Tetra, “Why? Why did he have to die? W-We could have saved him…” Skylar looked to the ground angry at her own weakness.

Tetra closed his eyes, folding his arms, “Perhaps we could but we didn’t. We were weak. Far too powerless to do anything.” he stated the calm tone he presented his words with only further increased the blows, “...People die. This isn’t some fairy tale where we get a happy ending. We fight and fight and fight. Just to buy a few more precious seconds.”

Silence followed those words, the harsh reality of the situation overwhelmed Skylar.

It certainly didn’t help that Tetra was already in a foul mood, he blinked suddenly his right ear twitch causing him to let out an annoyed sigh, “Already? They certainly don’t waste time…” he muttered to himself standing up from his chair, he then moved that chair so that the front legs were tilted upwards and the back blocked the door handle.

There was a knock on the door and Skylar almost answered on instinct of not for Tetra turning around and holding a finger to his lips with an all too serious look on his face.

It was then that a voice spoke out, “Skylar Shadewalker… You are being requested by his majesty.”

Silence followed Tetra put a hand on his hip muttering to himself, “They're making a move already eh?” he then glanced over to Skylar, “Sorry in advance for this kid, but you’ll do more good away from this place anyways.”

Skylar arched a brow at that, only for Tetra to crack his knuckles and rush forward wrapping his arm around Skylar’s waist lifting her up and throwing her over his shoulder, Skylar’s eyes widened, “W-Wait what the hell i-”

Before she could even fully understand what was going on Tetra leaped forward slamming through the window.

The window that is four stories high.

The window that they seemed to be falling from.

Oh dear.

“WHY ME!!?!?!” Skylar screamed as she plummeted downward Tetra chuckled as a burst of wind came from his feet slowing his fall down to a light drift as he hit the ground.

He then began sprinting forward not even taking a second to relax as he knew the stakes were too high, as he ran into the forest that lay just outside of that window he spoke, “I’ll be brief, I know you have little reason to trust me but nevertheless I ask for your trust anyways… Here’s the truth, the Executioner's on the highest point are planning to use you as a weapon, with or without your consent. And I for one will not stand for that.”

Skylar grit her teeth, suddenly raising her fist and slamming it down upon Tetra’s neck with enough force to cause him to stumble forward, as soon as he did so Skylar claimed her freedom leaping off of his back, “I don’t care if they plan to make me a weapon! I need to become strong so that I can avenge everyon-'' Skylar's eyes widened as Tetra slapped his hand across Skylar’s face.

“...Revenge is fine and all, but if this Kingdom decides to make you its tool… You’ll be losing more than your freedom.” Tetra stated, “At best… You’ll lose an arm, maybe your sanity… But at worst they’ll strip you of everything that makes you… you.” Tetra looked down at Skylar who narrowed her gaze, “You're fixed on becoming an Executioner. And that’s fine, slay gods get your vengeance… Whatever. But there are other paths you can take to achieve what you want.”

Skylar took in a breath narrowing her gaze, “But why? Why are you trying to help me?”

Tetra blinked, turning to look at the castle before speaking, “As an apology.” he frowned his gaze flickering to show something more than remorse, “If I had paid more attention… If I had been a little quicker. You and Leon wouldn’t have been in that situation… And for that I’m sorry.”

Skylar blinked looking down before taking in a shaky breath, “You said it yourself… People die. Right…?”

Tetra blinked before nodding, “You're quick to pick up lessons, that’s a good trait. Just make sure to pick up on the right ones… Now then.” he reached into his pocket pulling out a piece of paper, handing it off to Skylar, “I can’t explain the details, but there are things I need to get done in this city… As such I can’t be with you for a while, just follow the path I have laid out on this map. Got it?”

Skylar opened the map suddenly confused by where the mark on it was, “The docks? But… That’s out in the middle of the open… Won’t they find me easily there?”

Tetra shrugged, “I’ve got a crazy little plan in mind… besides things are unlikely to go smoothly as is.”

Suddenly the sound of a horn came out from the castle causing Tetra to frown, “See that? There begins the hunt, far as there concerned we’ve gone rouge.”

Skylar suddenly felt a drop of sweat on her back, “And… what happens to Executioners that go rogue…?”

Tetra’s gaze turned bitter as he glanced at Skylar, there was a moment where you could see him contemplate whether or not to lie to the girl, “At best they die. At worst… Well, you’ll see the worst of it soon enough.”

Tetra then began to walk forward smirking slightly, “Just watch your back alright.” with that he left Skylar alone.

Alone.

“...I think I hate him.” Skylar muttered to herself before turning around, her eyes widened as the trees rustled and something fell from above landing right in front of Skylar she was face to face with a silver haired woman, a fanged smirk bear for Skylar to see.

The woman hummed looking Skylar up and down, “Catch.” she suddenly spoke.

Skylar blinked, “Hu-” she was cut off as this woman slammed her fist into Skylar’s face knocking Skylar out with a single blow.

And just like that the world went black.

***

Tetra walked forward reaching the double doors of a church, an odd place indeed, for he was not a religious man, in fact he looked upon the thought of any god with scorn, but today was different.

He needed information, Tetra reached into his pocket pulling out a picture, a gruesome picture. One that showed a picture of a young girl, no more than the age of twenty, dead on the ground with a gun in her right hand, her eyes wide in fear.

That was the most concerning part.

Guards labeled it as a suicide.

Tetra didn’t believe that, there was something about that girl’s gaze that rubbed him the wrong way.

Regardless, Tetra set that picture back into his pocket before opening the door ahead of him, he had little time for tact, he was on the clock after all.

The halls ahead were white, a red carpet on the floor, and a noticeable hourglass hung on the roof, the sands fell down every second, but this was a normal occurrence, the castle had often recommended that Executioner's make it part of their daily ritual to come around here to check the hourglass, as for why?

…When the sands reach the bottom, the cloud sea will be at it’s highest, it’s only then that…

“Ah, is that you Tetra?” An old man’s voice suddenly came forth.

Causing Tetra to break out of his thoughts as a man exited a door, a nun right behind him, her crimson hair flowed elegantly, her innocent glow in her eyes locked with Tetra.

Tetra smiled a bit, “Heya old man, been a while.”

The priest let out a sigh walking up to the altar ever so slowly, “Still no respect for your elders I see… The hero would frown upon that, you know.” the priest declared.

The hero?

Ah yes, that was the figure that this church worshiped, some man who fought off gods and demons long ago.

It was always odd how man could forge a worship of such a vague subject, the only reason that more people didn’t fight against this one was because of the unity that the ‘hero’ caused.

Tetra shrugged regardless, “If the hero has time to punish me for being rude, then frankly he could be doing better.”

Tetra then glanced at the nun before speaking to the priest, “Either way, I am on a tight schedule, I’ve come to speak with her.”

The priest sighed, shaking his head, “It’s always her… Fine, just be quick about it.”

The woman dressed as a nun bowed before walking to the front door, Tetra following shortly behind, as they exited they kept moving, heading for the back of the building, it was as private as it was going to get.

So as they reached the back Tetra let out a yawn smirking slightly, “Sorry for the late notice call, but as you can probably tell, this will probably be our last meet up for a while.”

The woman sighed reaching into her breast pocket and pulling out a cigarette, the nice glow that was once lively in her eyes vanished near instantly as she lit that cigarette taking in the toxic odor that came from it, a harsh glare appeared in her gaze before she put that cigarette in her left hand between her index finger and her middle moving it away from her face she glanced at Tetra, “Well? What is it that you wanted to know?”

Tetra pulled out a picture of a young girl, she was dead on the ground with a gun in her right hand. The woman frowned, glancing at the photo, “...Mina Alteria.” She uttered the name with a look of disdain appearing on her face, “Girl was a freak.”

Tetra arched his brow, “Rather rude to speak that way of that dead.” he commented.

Causing the woman in front to take another puff of smoke from her cigarette, “...What I mean by that is she was always with a man. Couldn’t keep out of their pants, she loved the thrill of it… Or at least that was the substitute for her true thrill.” She explained and slowly she raised her right hand putting her index finger and middle finger together to form a ‘fake gun’.

“That girl was the strangest when it came to the thought of death, the closer she got to dying the more excited she got.” The woman then put that ‘fake gun’ to her own head, “If she was in this scenario, then she wouldn't be looking up fearfully, it’d be more like… bliss. Pure unadulterated bliss.” as if to emphasize this point the woman stuck her tongue out and rolled her eyes back just a bit.

Tetra noted those words, setting the photo back into his pocket, “For a nun you sure seem to know some… odd things.”

The woman smirked at that dropping her cigarette, stamping it out with her boot before speaking once more, her crimson eyes seemed to glow in the shadows, “What I do outside of ‘work’ is none of your business, are we done here?”

Tetra thought about asking more, but for the sake of time he thought better of it, “Yeah. We’re done.” Tetra turned around and began to walk off, “See ya soon Nena.”

The nun nodded looking up, “...May your death be a swift one, sinner.”

An odd sendoff to most, but Tetra smirked, finding it fitting.

For there was no one more sinful than he.

Chapter 3: Silent Screams

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

Tired… I’m so tired…

But… I’m awake so I have to open my eyes, don't I?

So slowly I did but there was something wrong, I was on a wooden chair and the room I was in seemed dimly lit.

A table was in front of me, my eyes widened and I quickly tried to raise my hands only to find them tied to the backside of the chair.

“Calm down… Your life isn’t in danger if that’s what you are worried about.” A voice spoke up there across the table on the opposing chair was a woman with silver hair, her gaze was calm as she rested her hand on the table, a silver plate in front of her with the same metal covering upon it.

Gritting my teeth I spoke up, “Who are you? Why am I here?” my eyes narrowed dangerously at this woman, whoever she was, I wasn’t here by my own will.

It would be foolish to trust her.

Yet that woman never ceased with her gaze, her mouth opened to speak, “Asking questions already huh? …Very well I suppose it’s only fair that you’d be confused. I am Jenna. As for why you’re here. I figured I’d invite you over for a meal. And a friendly little chat.”

A chat? No, there had to be some other motive.

Jenna smiled softly, her eyes seemed to be analyzing everything “You're unconvinced huh… Perhaps it’s the ropes that keep you tied, I assure you they're not in place to keep you chained down. They exist for my safety. And of course to ensure that we can have a pleasant conversation.”

My gaze hardened then as a man walked forward from the darkness clad in darkened clothing yet upon his head was metal that obscured his face, even so, I still asked my question, “Your safety… Are you…?”

Jenna pushed away from the table standing up a sly smirk upon her face, “The natural enemy of Executioner’s… A god in every sense of the word. Yet I would prefer to think of myself as yet another human.” she explained as the man in black reached out grabbing the silver lid lifting it to reveal a nice steak dinner. Yet there was also an apple placed just to the side.

The man grabbed that apple as Jenna continued, “As you know by now we ‘Gods’ feast upon human lifeforce to stay alive. Crystals also serve as a decent substitute… But what you might not be aware of is this.”

The man in black tossed the apple forward, and Jenna plucked it from the air, smirking before biting into it and letting it drop to the ground as she gripped the side of the table before hurling the contents of her stomach onto the ground.

She took a moment to compose herself before glancing at Skylar. Her hair was now a bit of a mess yet that confidence in her gaze refused to falter, “The foods that humanity would eat are akin to poisons to us.” she then turned her gaze to her own plate gaze ravenous despite the spilling of her stomach.

“...For us to gain strength. For us to live. We must sustain ourselves through other means. There are two options… Lifeforce that we can siphon through the land.” she then reached out removing the silver lid on her plate, “Or a life with mana.”

There on that plate was a human arm, and two eyeballs both with crimson irises. The sight of it was enough to make me gag. It took every ounce of willpower for me not to vomit.

“Y-Your a monster!” I shouted, gritting my teeth, “Why would you do that to people!? What possible reason could you have!?!”

Jenna seemed confused by that question, “People…? It’d be more accurate to call you ‘livestock’ no different from pigs, cows, or any of the other creatures you slaughter.” she declared this boldly grabbing her fork and stabbing down into one of the eyes and then she lifted it upward letting the eye lock onto Skylar, “All of this is for survival. So that I may live to see my life to the end.”

She then put that eyeball into her mouth chewing upon it as she slumped back into her chair, “I yearn to breathe. To eat a feast beyond reckoning. To breed and have offspring of my own… Simple pleasures that humanity has long taken for granted.”

Skylar looked down, frowning deeply, “Even if you become human, no one will forgive you. You’ll suffer the same fate as the rest of the so-called gods.”

Jenna frowned suddenly before clicking her tongue in annoyance, “The meaning of my message seems to be lost upon you. How irritating.” she then leaned backward lifting the front legs of her chair upwards as she pondered to herself, “...Bah it matters not.” she declared slamming the chair down and then stood up.

She then reached into her pocket and slammed something down onto the table pushing it forward and let it slide to the edge.

Skylar blinked looking at this object, “A pocket watch…? What are you? Telling me to check the time?”

Jenna shrugged, turning around, “It’s your inheritance. A gift that once belonged to someone close to you.” with that she walked to the nearby staircase before blinking and raising her right hand the ropes on Skylar’s wrists vanished, “You are free to leave, the exit is just down the hall… Or explore if you wish just be aware I’m not responsible for what happens to you if you choose to do so.”

And so Skylar stood up grabbing the pocket watch before she then glanced at Jenna narrowing her gaze, “I won’t let you get away with it. I will kill you. I don’t give a damn if it’s for the survival of whatever it is you claim! You are a blight upon this world and I will stop you!”

At the top of those stairs Jenna smirked without turning around, “...You are welcome to try. But…” she turned her head slightly a flash of crimson showed in her eye pressure exerted from Jenna’s very being, the force of her just staring at Skylar was enough to lock Skylar in place, “If you try to fight me with your ideals as they are now… Then you will die where you stand.” With those words uttered Jenna continued walking down the hallway upstairs.

Leaving Skylar alone with her thoughts.

“Survival. That’s what this all came down to.

What do I even say to that? I can’t just… deny something’s right to survive can I?”

Skylar looked down to the pocket watch, the casing was made of silver, and the way that time was told was also standard.

But… the hands didn’t move, the item in general seemed useless, Sky checked the back only to see the engraving of a crowbar on the back.

Odd.

Regardless she pocketed this item looking up that staircase

She had two options left, she could explore this place and find all the horrors that lurked within, or… she could simply leave.

Skylar closed her eyes sifting through her thoughts, the image of that power that Jenna flexed still in the front of her mind.

With reluctance Skylar opened her eyes, understanding now that exploring this place was simply too risky with how weak she was now.

So despite everything in her body saying she should make an attempt to kill Jenna, Skylar turned around.

And walked to the other hallway, a door was at the very end, what Skylar assumed to be the exit.

There was still a part inside of her that desperately wanted to investigate this place, but she could do that later.

She’d need backup for that sort of thing, so she swung the door open and took a step forward.

The door closed behind her, and Skylar’s eyes widened. She found herself standing in front of the ship docks, to think one of her enemies was this close to the castle, she turned around eyes widening further as she realized.

The door.

The door she had exited through was gone.

“Shit.” she cursed gritting her teeth as she realized just how outclassed she was.

“Going traitor now are we?” A voice suddenly called out causing Skylar to freeze in her tracks, slowly she turned to the direction of the markets, and a familiar sight lay before her.

Icon stood there blade stabbed into the ground, helmet over her head.

“Icon…” Skylar uttered the name worry showing in her gaze, Icon took note of this frowning beneath her helmet.

“I was looking forward to working with you. It’s not everyday we have another girl reaching the high ranks of the Executioners… But now you're here, clear as day ready to betray our whole organization.” Icon then gripped the hilt of her blade, slowly retracting it from the stone, before pointing that greatsword forward the air grew tense as Icon did so, “What do you have to say in your defense?”

Skylar looked to the ground, choosing her words with all due care, “I…” she looked up, locking eyes with Icon’s helmet, “I’m not here to be someone you can use, I’ll be an Executioner in my own way!”

“I’m afraid that isn’t an option Skylar Shadewalker… For you see, the path of a warrior for this kingdom is the only one ahead of you…” Icon declared slowly closing the distance with her sword in her right hand, “For yours is the legacy of a hero, the hero who fought ever so valiantly as these lands were raised skyward.”

Skylar grit her teeth, “Hero? What the hell are you talking about! I’m no hero… and I certainly wouldn’t know anything about my lingage! …I lost that chance when the island fell.” Skylar explained her right hand clenching into a fist.

Icon frowned, “I have not the time to argue facts. Will you return to the castle? Or will you choose death by my sword?” Icon questioned the wind blew faintly.

Sky glanced to her left then to her right, she then turned around the skies ahead were so vast… so distant.

For a moment everything felt still, and then Skylar spoke once more, closing her eyes, “For those that treat this world with kindness… I shall see that kindness returned.” Skylar stated as she began to walk forward, “But for those who treat me with injustice, that hunt me down, that use me. Those who’d hurt my family!” Skylar’s eyes snapped open suddenly, an azure blue bursting to life in her gaze as blue flames appeared in her right and left hands, “I shall see that injustice repaid tenfold.”

Icon’s confidence did not waver but there was a set of silence for a moment, “...Two magics, shouldn’t be possible… and yet here you are. Saunting forward unbroken and undaunted… a champion in the making.” Icon lowered that sword for a moment before smirking underneath her helmet, “Very well then, let us see if you’ve improved in these short days.” with that Icon instantly closed the distance, the stone cracking beneath her feet as she did so.

In response Skylar grit her teeth, ducking down as Icon went for a horizontal slash, Skylar then raised her right fist blocking a jab from Icon’s left fist.

The story has been taken without consent; if you see it on Amazon, report the incident.

Skylar then slammed her own left fist into Icon’s chin with enough force to make Icon’s helmet go flying, Icon’s eyes remained wide, but even so she spoke, “Not enough child!” she then slammed her forehead into Skylar’s causing Skylar to reel back in pain before she dodged to the left avoiding another strike, Skylar grit her teeth throwing her right fist forward in retaliation only for Icon to catch that fist in her left palm, “Come now, I thought you would have grown more than this.” The flames dissipated suddenly, Skylar’s eyes returned to that bright crimson color, and the wind began to blow, Icon’s eyes widened in shock as Skylar’s left fist made contact with Icon’s own face sending her flying backward.

At this point a small crowd began to form watching the battle unfold, Icon spat out a bit of blood frowning as she began to stand once more, “Interesting… show me more! Show me just what you are capable of champion!” she shouted a manic grin suddenly began to spread on her face.

“COMING THROUGH!” A new voice entered.

Icon’s eyes widened recognizing that voice instantly she spun around slashing with her sword as she did so, only for her gaze to remain wide as her sword was used as a platform to leap over her by none other then Tetra, who continued sprinting forward without a care in the world a cocky grin upon his face even as he grabbed Skylar by the arm.

“I think it’s about time we made our exit don’t you?” He questioned, yet he didn’t even wait for a response, deciding instead to leap off the edge of the docks taking Skylar with him.

In response Skylar yelled, “NOT AGAIN!!!!”

Icon’s eyes widened she sprinted rapidly forward, only for her gaze to narrow as an airship suddenly took to the skies in front of her, on the hull stood Tetra who smirked cockily along with Skylar who seemed to still be dazed by the near death experience, a guard walked up to Icon’s side, “Your orders madam?”

Icon paused for a moment before uttering her next words, “Let them go…”

The guard tilted his head to the side, “Are you certain?”

Icon nodded, turning around slowly as she began to make her way to the castle, “Let them have their freedom for now, they will find their way back here one way or another… for there is no escape from destiny… no matter how much they struggle, it’s pull will find them here before me once again.” Icon’s gaze narrowed dangerously at the castle ahead, “And then the truth shall be laid bare for all to see.”

***

Tetra hummed in thought as the capital island began to fade from sight, “There not following us.” he concluded though he seemed rather displeased by the idea.

Skylar let out a sigh of relief on the other hand, “Oh thank god.”

Tetra shook his head, “I wouldn’t relax just yet, we're wanted criminals now, that means there isn’t really a safe place to go… and yet we can’t remain airborne forever.” Tetra glanced behind him, the front of the ship soared seemingly endlessly, but once the winds died down that’d be a different story.

In response Skylar folded her arms, “Well… Where can we go then?” she questioned looking to Tetra for guidance.

Tetra responded by walking to the entrance to the captain’s chambers, “Follow me.” without fear Skylar did just that.

The room was made of wood, just like the rest of the ship, Skylar’s memory immediately shifted to Leon’s chambers… this room was almost the same, the only difference was a bookshelf with several books labeled by numbers, the numbers being 1 through 18.

As for the names that were also upon these books?

The map of the Skyrealms.

Tetra was immediately drawn to the book labeled ‘18’ pulling it from its shelf and bringing it forth, he set it upon the table opening it wide for Skylar to see, the map itself was rather large.

Yet it only held 9 islands upon it.

The first one was the Island they just left, right in the center of that map, ‘The Capital’ surrounding it were eight other islands that floated all the same on each.

To the West. Skylar saw her own island on the map, she frowned seeing it.

Tetra noticed that gaze, “Lest you wonder if you were lied to, we can go and see the area for ourselves if you wish.”

Skylar narrowed her gaze, her heart screamed at her to see what remained, if anything at all but she began to take in a shaky breath, “No.” she stated at last, “W-We can see it later… getting to safety first is what matters… right?”

Tetra blinked for the first time since she’s met Tetra the man seemed surprised, he looked to the map and hummed in thought, “Your more grown up then I’ve given you credit for.” he explained the reason for his surprise, not seeing a reason to keep it a secret.

He then looked at that same map frowning, “...Perhaps Jubilee… The island to the southeast.” Tetra muttered pointing at the island before frowning, “No… Now that I think on it, it’s likely the first place they’ll check for me.”

Skylar tilted her head to the side, arching a brow, “Why’s that?”

Tetra closed his eyes, “The area around Jubilee is known for its storms… It’s practically a safe haven for Wind mages like you and me, but at the same time… that means they’ll do anything to keep us away from it.” Tetra then folded his own arms, “It’s practically impossible to get in now.”

Skylar looked to the map herself, as she did so her eyes gazed upon the many islands until her eyes stopped on one crossed out with a big red X

She arched a brow pointing at it, “What about that island?”

Tetra’s eyes glossed over to where Skylar pointed, his gaze growing deadly serious as he spoke up, “Pandæmonium. A place where beasts mutated by the cloud sea reside, the dangers of this place are sorted into six layers… starting with the top and leading to the bottom… There is no telling what awaits us there. Hence the big red X, it’s quite literally a place that leads to death not to mention the Executioner’s there are.. Strange to say the least” Tetra explained.

Skylar nodded in understanding, “I get that… but in our case if we wanna lose the kingdom shouldn’t we be rushing headlong into danger?” She questioned, Tetra arched a brow to that, “Why would we want to do that?”

“We're just two people… if we get somewhere that’s let’s say… a million soldiers couldn’t get to, maybe they’ll just leave us be.” She then folded her arms frowning herself, “...I admit that’s unlikely though, so at the very least it’ll give us some breathing room to plan something better.” Tetra turned his gaze back to the map pondering over the idea. Yet before long he exhaled, shaking his head.

“Are you certain that’s where you wish to go?” Tetra questioned looking up from the map on his table.

Skylar nodded in response, “Yeah. I’m sure, if there is anywhere we can hide, it’d be there.” she was confident in her choice.

Tetra folded his arms, narrowing his gaze at the map, “That may be true, but the risks are great as well… After all, Draco is the one who happens to own this place.”

Skylar blinked, tilting her head to the side, “Draco?”

In response Tetra began to roll the map up as he explained, “Even among the other Executioner’s Draco’s always been… excentric to say the least, if he sees us on his island, there’s no telling how he’ll react.” Tetra sighed as he began walking to the door, only for an excited Skylar to run in front of him blocking him off.

“All the more reason for us to go! His unpredictability could be what we need to stay alive.” Skylar stated confidently obvious to the dangers that awaited.

Tetra rolled his eyes, putting a hand on Skylar’s shoulder and gently moving her aside before opening the door to the rest of his airship, “Or perhaps it’ll kill us both.”

Of course Skylar followed closely behind Tetra arching a brow as she did so, “He’s not that violent is he?”

Tetra chuckled bitterly, shoving his hands into his pockets as he looked over his shoulder, “The only thing I can say for sure is this, Draco is one of the most skilled combatants in this realm.”

He then looked to Skylar for a moment before smirking, “As such it’s only fitting that we prep you for the worst. Pick up your blade Skylar, I’ll teach you everything I know.”

Skylar paused at that looking to the man before her before nodding slowly and walking out to the front of the ship with him.

***

A man swung open the massive twin doors that lead into the castle’s main meeting room, in his right hand a bottle of alcohol, that anyone could find in a shop, the man cared not for the taste as he sat upon one of the many chairs, Icon stared at this man a look of detest on her face, “For fuck’s sake Draco, some days you remain perfectly normally and the next I’d mistake you for another drunkered in the slums.”

The man. Draco slammed his bottle down on the table, smirking, “Bah, this bottle isn’t to drown my sorrows in today, rather it’s a gift.” he then slid that bottle down the long table, it stopped just in front of Icon who narrowed her eyes dangerously in warning, Draco however was undeterred, “figured you’d need a little something to help with the royal beating your about to receive from his majesty, heard you fucked up big time.”

Icon scoffed, leaning forward on her chair shoving the bottle back across the table, “Oh please, you act innocent, but you were called to this meeting as well… Whatever for?”

Draco hummed absentmindedly, catching the sliding bottle in his right hand, “Now there is the question…” A suddenly wicked smile appeared on Draco’s face as he slid the bottle back once more, as he spoke, “Perhaps today I’m here as the overseer for your Execution.”

Icon growled letting the bottle slide off the table and hit the ground as the door opened once more, The King himself had entered the room walking to the very center of the table, the two Executioners sat in attention as The King sat upon the chair at that center.

It was far larger then the rest of the chairs at this table, of course this was to show his power.

The King then leaned forward, his eyes narrowed dangerously as he rested his arms on this table, “...You let Skylar get away. That was foolish.” He spoke directly, to Icon first his gaze turning murderous.

Icon lowered her head, she had her fair share of complaints, but she wouldn’t. dare speak them to The King himself, to do so was nothing short of insanity.

Seeing that Icon wouldn’t speak back without his express approval The King locked his gaze upon Icon, “Well? What is your reasoning?”

Icon took in a breath looking up to lock eyes with her king, “Selfishness… I wished to see that girl grow… And I remain uncertain that she can reach her potential here.”

The King frowned, “...She may never reach her potential at all at this rate, my sources tell me she heads for Pandæmonium.” he stated.

This caused Draco’s ears to perk up, “Ah… So that’s why I’ve been called, isn't it.” he frowned, leaning backward.

The King nodded, turning to the other end of the table, “I wish to know what the odds of their survival are, and if they can even be obtained.”

Draco blinked frowning as he began humming in thought, “...Depends on how far down into the chambers they go. Layer’s one through three shouldn’t be too much of a hassle… but chambers four and five and off limits for a reason.” he explained, “the beasts in those areas are legitimate threats to our realm.”

The King folded his arms, closing his eyes as he nodded, “I see… Then we have one more matter to discuss, afterwards you are to return to Pandæmonium and retrieve those two.”

Draco sighed, “That’s gonna be a hassle…” but he would not refuse the order of his king/

The King then opened his eyes, “...The cloud sea rises, I fear the time of reckoning comes near, A titan grows ready to surface.”

This caught the attention of both of The Executioners.

Icon frowned, “So soon? The last Titan surfaced, 13 years ago… Surely you jest…”

Draco shook his head, “No he’s right… The signs are all there. But the timing is rather odd…” he then leaned back once more, “Bah, I suppose I shall have to attempt to converse with the gods… We shall require assistance if we are to put down another Titan.”

The King sat there with a frown on his face, “We will not bend a knee to our lessers, should we find any gods upon the field, we shall strike them down along with the so-called Titan’s.”

Draco narrowed his gaze, his resolve shining clear in this moment, “Your majesty with all due respect, what your suggestion will be nothing short of a bloodbath!” Draco shouted standing up and slamming his palm down on the table, Icon stood up ready to silence him with a single strike, but The King held up his right hand, signaling Icon to stand down and so Draco continued, “You do not understand the power’s these creatures wield, without the help of the gods… these things will shake these islands… To their foundations.”

Draco spoke those words with certainty.

Yet even so The King leaned forward clasping his hands together he took in a breath before speaking, “And if I accepted the help of the gods? What then? I… Abandon my creed, throw my people's trust into the fire along with my own pride? Is that what you suggest?”

Draco frowned bitterly, “Better to burn your pride than suffer the loss of millions.”

The King countered with a scoff leaning back in his chair, “There will be losses that much is true.” he acknowledged this fact, “yet for every citizen who falls. Another can be bred. For every home that burns… Another can be built.”

He then locked his gaze onto Draco‘s before finishing, “This Kingdom will live on.”

With that silence followed, Draco found himself at a loss for words, so he bit down on his lip angry at his own powerlessness.

With that The King rose from his chair, “...We believe the Titan’s will rise from the cloud sea in 7 days. Make your preparations. You are dismissed.”

The King began to walk to the massive doors once more, walking right past Draco as he did so, Draco bit down on his lip with enough force to draw blood as soon as the door closed behind him he slammed his fist down onto the table.

“Must every choice we make be one of blood?” he questioned.

Icon folded her arms a scowl on her face, “...You have your orders, best you go back to your island, and tame those beasts that are so loath to escape your clutches time and time again.” Draco turned around then he began walking forward scoffing at the mention of these creatures,

“If my beasts so much as try to make a move out of their designated areas, then I shall simply detain them once more.” he proclaimed boldly.

Icon folded her arms glaring coldly at Draco, “And what of the interlopers that may now roam your island? What shall become of them?”

Draco blinked looking at the door ahead of him, humming in thought, “Executioner law calls for their execution, so logically, I should return and bring their heads forthwith… and yet they would seek to go further and further into my domain… I find myself deathly curious as to how far they will make it.” A sly smirk tugged at the edges of Draco’s face as he continued a plan formulating in his own head, “ah, as ever I am my own worst enemy.” as he reached that conclusion he was next to leave that room.

And so Icon sat there alone.

She looked at the bottle of alcohol on the ground, her gaze softening for a moment, “A single moment of a calm… before the storm perhaps?”

Without wasting a breath she picked up the bottle and opened it up taking a swig straight from it, her gaze narrowed at the door ahead.

“...Blood… That is the price that we must pay for a brighter future, that has always been the price… And yet why is it that this future seems to get darker the further we go into it?” Icon questioned looking at the bottle in her hand.

“That would be due to the providence of a weak ruler.” A voice responded, the voice of a young maiden, Icon’s eyes suddenly widened she dropped the battle standing tall reaching for the sword on her back.

Her eyes darted to every corner of the room looking for the source of the voice, “Reveal yourself!” Icon suddenly shouted.

“Well if you insist.” A hand suddenly swiped the bottle of alcohol from the table, Icon swiftly turned around ready to strike down the one who would speak to her so casually, only to blink as she saw what appeared to be a young woman with silver hair examining that bottle, “Never understood this thing, why drown yourself in slow acting poison.” She questioned tossing the bottle onto the wall letting it smash upon it, she then smirked locking eyes with Icon before stretching out a hand, “The name’s Jenna.” Jenna spoke.

Icon narrowed her gaze at Jenna’s hand, to which Jenna tilted her head to the side, “I was told that this is how you human’s greet each other… Is this wrong?”

Icon grit her teeth unsheathing her blade and slashing at Jenna, her blade cut into Jenna’s neck, only for Icon’s gaze to widen.

That blade cut into Jenna’s skin, but not deep enough to cut the bone, Jenna blinked, lowering her hand, “Ah, now this greeting I am familiar with.”

Slowly she began to walk forward, blood dripping onto Icon’s blade as she removed her semi-severed neck from the steel simply by tilting her head to the side.

Her wound healed instantly, “but I have no interest in weaklings such as you… Instead I have come to make an offer.”

Icon growled suddenly, “I will never accept an offer from a monster such as yourself!”

Jenna tilted her head to the side, confusion riddled upon her face, “Monster? …Ah, of course because I ‘eat’ people… But you will be surprised to find that our goals are aligned.” Jenna proclaimed boldly, smirking some, “A revolution.”

Icon blinked before chuckling.

That chuckle then turned into full laughter, the idea that Icon would ever betray his majesty was nothing short of insane.

And so Icon stopped her laughter locking her gaze upon Jenna, “Your schemes will amount to nothing, I will stop you… Leave now while your head remains on your torso.”

Jenna frowned at that, “Is that so? Oh Icon, ever the hero aren’t we? So selfless, always saving everyone and anyone you can. For no reward… a perfect tool.” Jenna proclaimed her form vanishing into the shadows, her voice continued to echo throughout the room, “How long until you are misused? How long until those you put your faith in betray you? How long will this charade of yours go on?”

The next line came out as a whisper behind Icon, “Aren’t you tired of being nice?”

Icon quickly spun around attempting to slash at Jenna, but when Icon slashed there was nothing behind her instead Jenna giggled in the darkness it echoed across the room, causing a ping of fear to enter Icon’s heart.

A thud then came from the table, Slowly Icon turned her gaze to that table where a single shard of glass was implanted in it, Jenna’s voice came once more, “I must bid you farewell… I am quite the busy woman despite appearances but if ever you should wish to speak with me… merely speak my name in front of any glass. I shall be watching you hero.”

With that Jenna’s presence could be felt no more.

It was then that Icon let out a breath, she hadn’t even realized she was holding in, a demon.

That was the only word that could be used to describe Jenna.

She would have to be reported to her majesty immediately.

Icon nodded to herself walking to the door without a care in the world.

“yet for every citizen who falls. Another can be bread. For every home that burns… Another can be built.”

Icon stopped remembering the words that left The King’s mouth.

“...Perhaps… Perhaps I should keep these details to myself.” she spoke aloud, taking in a shaky breath.

Though she convinced herself that it was out of justice.

The seeds of doubt had already begun to take root.

***

Skylar stood in this place slackjaw in awe, whereas Tetra stood in a similar manner, Skylar slowly regained her composure, turning to face Tetra, “I thought you said this place was super dangerous.” she spoke at last.

Tetra slowly nodded, “It is…”

Skylar returned her gaze to the lands ahead, “Ok…” she mouthed slowly, “But then why is everything so… tropical?”

Palm tree’s littered the land, bodies of water sat around, birds flew from tree to tree enjoying the space, just behind Skylar and Tetra their airship sat on the dock.

Tetra simply shrugged, “Maybe the information about this place was wrong…? Then again the Mothercrystal here has always been strange, maybe it had something to do with it…”

Skylar then sighed leaning forward, “Mother Crystal?” she questioned confusion riddled upon her face.

Tetra looked over his shoulder with a small smile, “Large crystals at the center of every island, it’s what pumps mana through the land. Keep’s us afloat and safe. Each one will have some side effects on the island though, for example… The Kingdom’s mana has always leaked out the edges, and has a tendency to draw in Gods and other unsavory beasts. I hear the Mother Crystal in Caelum’s mana has a similar effect…”

“Is that so… And you don’t know anything about the Mother Crystal here?” Skylar asked, folding her arms.

Tetra looked to the lands ahead nodding, “It draws in creatures, but beside that… I’ve never actually been here before myself. I kept myself way too busy, and this place was always in Draco’s hands… Despite his oddities, I’d trust him with my life.” Tetra explained as he began to walk forward.

Skylar followed close behind of course, despite the island being rather tropical there was a single building in the center.

The island was massive in size, in comparison to The Capital island, this one was clearly triple the size of that one, maybe even larger.

Tetra’s gaze remained razer focused on that building, whereas Skylar found herself distracted by the various creature’s.

Her gaze shifted to one of the many waters where she saw several creatures, all with pink skin and dark beady eyes, they smiled at Skylar, or perhaps they were just smiling in general, “Oh my god there adorable.” Skylar whispered.

“Axolotl’s.” Tetra stated catching Skylar’s attention, “They are an endangered species nowadays, this island isn’t just a home for mutations, it serves to help every species thrive.”

Skylar looked at the creatures kneeling down, as she did so they dove into the water and began swimming around, “He must really care about life…”

“Who can say?” Tetra responded simply, “Come on.” he continued his walk towards the building ahead.

It was made of white stone, and there were strange markings all along the walls of it, as they approached Tetra examined the markings, running a hand along them, instead of the steel door that laid in the center of the building, Skylar arched a brow at this.

“Runes, skilled mages can imbue their will’s upon objects… In this case Draco made some to keep unwanted people out. If you're on the list of unwanted people, trying to get into this place is like playing russian roulette.” Tetra then walked over to the door pausing as he grabbed the handle, “So let’s see if we're lucky shall we?”

Without hesitation he pulled open the door, Skylar closed her eyes expecting the worst. Slowly she opened her eyes, seeing Tetra there unscathed, “Nothing happened…?”

Tetra chuckled, “Seems we were lucky, Draco hasn’t updated the runes yet. Good for us.” Tetra declared before entering the building.

“W-Wait, should we wait for him? I mean… we need to negotiate with him don’t we?” Skylar questioned.

Tetra folded his arms pausing for a moment, “...Honestly our odds of negotiation incress the further down into this place we get…” he stated then looked to the inside of the building ahead, “Draco is a slave to his own curiosity, from my understanding reaching the bottom of this place and staying alive is impossible… so if we were to defy those odds, naturally he’d want to know how.”

Skylar then sighed, “That’s… not an easy task is it?” she asked entering the building, it was lit up poorly and there was a hole in the center with a staircase leading down.

It wasn’t a small hole either, it was massive, easily about 7km (23,000ft) wide. As for how deep it went?

The duo couldn’t tell, it seemed to go down near endlessly.

“That… looks like quite the walk.” Skylar committed.

Tetra hummed taking the first steps down the staircase that circled around the edges of this hole, “That it does.”

Skylar of course followed, “Isn’t there… I dunno a faster way down?”

Tetra smirked lightly, “I could push you in.” he joked.

Skylar blinked, “I think I’ll just shut up now…”

“Smart lass.”

Some time passed after that, they’d been walking for about 20 minutes now, Skylar looked up and she could no longer see where they had come from at this point Skylar was starting to think the pit was endless.

As soon as she thought about mentioning the fact Tetra stopped glancing over the edge, “Eyes up, weapons ready. We’ve got company.” he spoke as wind began to burst to life from his feet.

Skylar arched a brow slowly reaching up to the hilt of her sword, in the center of this spiraling staircase a beast flew upwards.

Cuffs on its right hand, and its tail. A chain dangled from it’s tail as well a spike stabbed through it’s tail kept that chain in place..

Azure scales littered its body and its eyes were reptilian, Skylar had heard stories of this creature when she was younger slowly she mouthed its name, “A dragon…”

A warm red light came from the dragon’s maw, in response to seeing that light Tetra leaped from the staircase letting the wind carry him as he slammed his left fist into the chin of this beast, with enough force to make its head jolt upwards.

Fire shot into the air from the dragon’s mouth as it roared, before Tetra could begin to descend the beast moved with uncanny speed snatching Tetra up in it’s left hand, It then pulled it’s left hand getting ready to throw Tetra down, “Oh shit.” Tetra uttered the phrase in realization of how much the fall was going to hurt.

He closed his eyes bracing for impact, the beast let out a pain filled roar escaping the dragon’s mouth.

And the impact of the beast throwing him was of course felt by Tetra but somehow it didn’t hurt as much as he expected, Tetra opened his eyes blinking in confusion, he landed on the far opposite set of spiraling stairs and set his gaze onto Skylar who was hanging onto the dragon’s chain.

The dragon flew around slamming its own tail against the walls in an attempt to shake Skylar off.

But she refused to let go gritting her teeth through the pain her blade still sheathed all the while, Tetra took in a breath taking two steps backward as the dragon began to swoop to the center of the room Tetra leaped off the staircase once more wind blasted out from his feet increasing the speed of his decent, he pulled back his right fist and slammed it into the dragon’s head sending it spiraling downward with enough force to knock Skylar off the chain.

Her eyes flashed azure in that moment as she pulled her blade from its sheath, blue flames suddenly coated it, and she let out a fantastical roar as she descended her blade hit the dragon’s stomach, it roared in pain as its hide was pierced.

Before it could retaliate however, it felt its power begin to drain. Skylar’s own eyes remained wide as she began to take this dragon’s strength.

“Skylar, get out of there!” Tetra shouted.

In that instant Skylar came back to her senses in that instant leaping from the dragon and back onto the many staircases, fire came from the center of the room.

Tetra ran down the staircase, helping Skylar up, “Just… how many dragons are there?” Skylar questioned as she stared forward somewhat fearfully at the area ahead.

In response Tetra narrowed his gaze somewhat dangerously, “...There should be guards on the first floor, but there was no one… We might have arrived at the worst possible time.” he concluded with a deep frown.

A voice rang out through the caverns, “You two, what the hell are you doing down there! You are trespassing on an Executioner's land!”

Tetra arched a brow, recognizing the voice, “Julieta?” he questioned looking up.

The voice paused, “Master Tetra? How odd… The defensive measures should not have been activated in your presence.”

Tetra blinked glancing over to Skylar before concluding, “You're on lockdown… Now I get it…” he then sighed, “As much as I’d love to keep chatting, I think you could get us the hell out of here!” Tetra shouted to the heavens.

A red glow suddenly came on the wall, Tetra blinked hearing a rumbling behind him and Skylar.

As he turned around the wall opened up, he blinked hearing the roar of several dragons, he quickly glanced over his shoulder seeing about twelve, he then grabbed Skylar by the wrist and uttered one word, “Run.”

And so they began to do just that, the opened wall led into a corridor covered in blue glowing runes, as they ran through they could hear the dragons just behind them along with a slamming noise, Skylar took this moment to check behind her, the corridor was quickly closing up behind them.

She quickly turned back to Tetra and shouted, “RUN FASTER!”

Heeding that command Tetra suddenly gained a burst of speed launching forward, all too suddenly the corridor ended closing behind the duo, there was a slight drop as Tetra let go of Skylar’s wrist.

They hit the smooth stone floors without so much as a scratch, the sound of rushing water was the first thing Tetra noticed as he glanced around.

Skylar let out an exhausted breath falling to her knees, “I thought… we were gonna die.” she breathed out glancing behind her there Tetra stood in a similar exhausted state, before speaking up, “I did warn you didn’t I? Pandæmonium is nothing to be scoffed at… and it’s only going to get worse the further down we go.” he stated as he caught his breath walking forward.

Skylar winced looking forward, “H-Hey can’t we rest here for a moment?”

Tetra spun on his heel frowning, “Stay if you want, I’m not taking any chances.” With that he continued walking forward with no fear in his heart.

Skylar let out a sigh, “What an… Asshole…” She then continued walking forward, despite her legs screaming in pain.

The floors ahead were all made of strange blue stones, “I… have a question.” Skylar stated.

Tetra blinked glancing at her before sighing, “Ask your’s first, then I’ll ask my own. We have a bit of a walk ahead of us so it’ll pass the time.”

Skylar nodded accepting those terms, “Ok… soo who’s Julieta?”

Tetra stopped mid step for a moment before continuing to walk, “The caretaker of this place, second only to Draco himself, she’s usually in charge when Draco’s away… I assume that’s the case even right now…” He then paused, rolling his own words around in his head before speaking the last set in almost a whisper, “And we used to be together.”

That last bit of information caused Skylar to nearly trip, “You what!?!”

“I used to be a bit of a romantic… what can I say, things don’t work out sometimes.” Tetra spoke, stopping in his tracks he turned around to look at Skylar, “As for my question. Before, you absorbed that dragon’s power is that right?”

Skylar blinked looking at her right hand, “I… think so. Yeah.”

“I thought you could only absorb the power that god’s held?” Tetra questioned, “I’ll admit I’m not the most up to date when it comes to god magic, but yours? It’s one that’s been well documented over the ages. Granted it hasn’t been around since the Age Of Heroes but even still,” Tetra explained, “So then… I suppose what I’m asking is this.” Tetra narrowed his gaze, “Is yours different? Are you not limited to stealing magic from gods? And… are you a threat to this world?”

Skylar took in a breath clenching her hand into a fist, her eyes switching to a bright crimson, “I can control it…” she promised her gaze filled with determination.

Tetra stared at Skylar for a while then, the air was thick he then closed his eyes, “I see. Then I suppose I’ll get the rest of my answers at a later date, so long as you have control over it the rest doesn't matter.”

Tetra then shoved his hands into his pocket, turning around, “Come on, let’s go and greet our hosts.” with that he began walking forward without a care in the world.

Skylar looked down to her clenched fist for a second and she was trembling, “...Am I… a monster?” That single question sent a series of doubts into her mind.

But… she didn’t have the time to worry about it at the moment, taking in a breath she continued to walk along the path following close behind Tetra.

***

Alone in his throne room, The King sat his gaze narrowed as he frowned bitterly.

Soon, another man appeared, clothed in his white robes, The Eternal walked out from a dark void, "You wished to speak with me?" this man questioned.

The King took in a breath closing his eyes as he mulled over his own thoughts, "When I first claimed this crown... You and yours made yourself known to me, and yet it's only now that I find myself asking why?" The King opened his eyes, locking his gaze on the man before him.

The man said nothing standing at attention waiting for The King to continue, and so he did, "Your motives for helping me as well remain illusive to me, and now here I am... ready to march to war at your whims, the least you can do is enlighten me."

The man sighed looking to the ground, "Very well... if that's what we have come to then so be it."

The man then looked at The King directly, "Let us start simply with our names, "Eternal's" as I am sure you have guessed, the name is a reference to our true nature... We have been here since time immemorial and shall remain until this world's last gasp." So the man claimed, he then looked to his right out the window, "...Once long ago, the land was plentiful, the seas churned endlessly, oh... and the skies above remained endless. There was no fear, no despair... simply peace."

He then frowned beneath his cloak, "But it was not meant last. In an instant, our world was torn asunder by threats beyond our understanding." The man's right hand clenched into a fist, "Forgive me... It seems I've gotten emotional."

The King remained in his seat wearing a stoic face, "So you would hunt for Stella? In an attempt to return to those glory days?"

The man scoffed at that folding his arms, "If you had known paradise only for it to be cruelly ripped away from you, would you not do the same?"

The King closed his eyes to those words, "Who can say?" He then opened his gaze, "But one question remains. Are you an enemy to mankind?"

The man unfolded his arms a smirk forming on his face as he did so, "And what if we are?" the man suddenly raised his right hand, a ball of inky black darkness appearing within his palm, "You lack the power to stop us, hence why you are in the chair doing our bidding."

The King grit his teeth but ultimately said nothing in response, so the man lowered his hand dispensing of the darkness with a sigh, "I trust that concludes our business?" the man questioned tilting his head to the side, The King nodded solemnly.

As he did so the man turned around, opening his dark portal so he may exit yet before he did so the man turned his head slightly, "I suggest you make your dues, for soon... there will be a new chosen more suited for that crown."

With that, the man walked through his dark portal.

As soon as it closed The King grit his teeth standing tall, "...The winds of change sweep these lands... and here I am powerless to stop it." he sighed walking over to one of the many nearby windows, "It would seem time runs short." he pressed his right hand onto the window taking in a shaky breath, "Rise ye, heroes of man, for a reckoning is upon us."