apricusnights

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twenty-five: Destiny.

Location: The Spire.

The lightning rod was finally struck, the full charge flowing down into the spire, into the strange container. The machinery connected to the container began to overload, sparks flying as Chimera ducked for cover. Janus Windsor however refused to miss even a second of his plan finally coming to fruition.

The entire spire began to shake as unbelievable amounts of energy poured into the container; it seemed the building was only barely able to hold itself together. After several unstable moments, the shaking ceased. The machinery that wasn't destroyed during the process was slowly shutting down.

Janus approached the container, reaching down and unlatching the lid before pushing it off. Chimera cautiously approached, standing next to her employer and looking inside the container.

Chimera: "Is this...?"

Janus: "The beginning of a new era, of MY era."

Whatever was inside the container pulsed with power. Janus reached down and took hold of it. Strange energy began to flow through his veins as he struggled to hold himself together.

Janus finally pulled his arm back. He beckoned Chimera closer, holding out a closed fist.

Chimera leaned forward only to be struck by a blast of energy as Janus opened his fist. Her mask shattered as she cried out in pain.

Janus: "Don't worry my dear, it may be quite agonizing, but I assure you it's only temporary. Soon you'll fully grasp the power of Project Sunrise..."

Janus: "Soon you and I will begin to create a new world!"

Location: Apricus City.

Mayor Lowell: "Good evening Apricus. I'd like to thank you for your time, I promise you this won't take long. I was going to wait a bit before I made this announcement however sometimes you just get a gut feeling that tells you when to change plans."

"As we all know, none of us will be around forever. Well, except for Captain Larsen and President Styles who may just use spite to defy the reaper." Chuckling at his own joke before shuffling the papers in front of him.

"This is why I'd like to take this time to introduce the young man who will be serving as my new deputy mayor. Some of you have likely heard the rumors already, and I'm sure many of you have a mixed reaction. I just ask that you give him a chance."

"This young man has grown up before our eyes. He's had his fair share of issues, he's made his fair share of mistakes, but haven't we all? He has proved he's a team player, being a member of a championship Hecaball team."

"He's proven his loyalty to the city. Even being willing to sacrifice himself during the Checkmate invasion in order to stop a foe he likely had no chance against. He's someone who I believe has earned our respect. Someone who deserves a chance."

"With that said, I ask you all to trust in me, and trust in him. Your new deputy mayor, and hopefully future mayor once I step down, Mr. Jaime Baskerville." Clapping for Jaime and stepping away to let him say a words.

Mayor Lowell steps off to the side and stands next to Commander Fisher.

Fisher: "I hope you're right about this."

Lowell: "I know in my heart he's the right choice."

Fisher: "This is about the Crepusculum meeting soon, isn't it?"

Lowell: "Partially. Should anything happen in the near future I needed to have someone I believed in, in place to lead the city if need be."

Fisher: "Well he's not a bad public speaker, I'll give him that."

The broadcast concluded after Jaime had finished speaking.

Location: Hidden Sea.

Night: "So I was wondering if? Nah. Hey, how about we? No. Would you do me the honor of? Maybe..."

Sable: "What are you going on about?"

Night: "I'm uh.."

Hugo: "Bro is practicing to ask his girlfriend to marry him. Of course, he's an idiot and can't get it right."

Sable: "Awww how cute! Hey why haven't you.."

Hugo: "Check it!"

The three of them had found what they'd been looking for. One of the smaller islands that was connected to the central one via a makeshift bridge was the impact site. What remained of the space rock still sat in the crater.

Hugo: "Think of what I could make with this..."

Sable: "Wonderful dear but how are we going to get this out of here? It's too heavy to move the whole thing and we're already unsure of how to get back home."

Hugo: "We'll cross that bridge when we come to it. Night and I can start chipping away at it, we'll just load smaller pieces into bags and bring them back."

Sable: "You have bags?"

Night: "Course! Never leave home without everything you could possibly need!"

Sable: "Those are Tacos 'N More bags, aren't they?"

Night: "Yes but don't remind me."

Hugo: "If they are strong enough to hold several taco buckets they should be fine. Get your ass down here and help me chisel this thing."

Night slid down into the crater next to Hugo and grabbed one of the tools Hugo had brought with him. The two starting to break away mall pieces of the large rock. This however proved problematic due to how hard the material really was.

Sable had dozed off and was woken up a bit of time later when she heard something scurry around in the jungle on the other side of the crater. Rubbing her eyes and taking a look only to see nothing.

Sable: "Hey, did you guys hear anything?"

Hugo: "Only this baby complaining about hard work."

Night: "Shut the fuck up..."

Sable: "I'm serious!"

Hugo: "Relax babe, probably just a bird or a monkey or something."

Sable moved closer to the jungle, leaning forward to look through the foliage.

Moments later Hugo, and Night heard a scream and saw Sable running past them.

Night: "Think she saw a bug or something?"

Hugo: "Probably."

Night glanced up a second later only to see several large insect-like creatures looking down at them.

Night: "I think..maybe she had the right.."

Hugo had already grabbed a few bags full of rocks and started running up the other side of the crater.

Night: "Hey!" Grabbing two bags and following after.

The three making their way across the makeshift bridge pursued by a horde of the strange creatures. One extremely large one seemed to be directing the smaller beasts.

Puck and Sunil were surprised to suddenly see Sable, Hugo, and Night run through the jungle past them on the central island.

Puck: "Oh hey, we were looking for.."

Sunil: "We should run."

Not even bothering to question it, the two turned and followed the group through the jungle towards the beach.

Cerise meanwhile was gathering up supplies on the beach when she heard the commotion. Looking over to see everyone running towards her. Everyone stopped to catch their breath as the creatures continued their pursuit. Waves starting to pour out of the jungle and on to the beach.

Cerise: "The fuck did you do?!"

Night: "Nothing! But since we're about to be eaten by bugs from space.."

Puck: "They might not be from space."

Night: "Not the point! Cerise, if we don't get eaten by bugs you wanna get married some time?"

Cerise: "What?! I...yeah sure but we aren't having a stupid big wedding."

Sable: "I want a stupid big wedding!"

Hugo: "Whatever you want babe!"

Sunil: "You think?"

Puck: "Well.."

The group grabbed their weapons and were fending off whatever bugs got close to them while arguing about things.

Cerise: "Hey! Dickheads! If you're listening, I want my prize! Get us the fuck out of here and we're good!"

As if on cue the emperors heard Cerise's request and opened a portal behind them.

Night: "What.."

Cerise: "Remember I was a tournament winner? I'm using my prize to save our asses. Everyone go!"

Sable, Puck, Sunil, Hugo, Night, and Cerise rushed through. Hugo, and Night carrying a few bags full of the space rocks. A bright flash of light followed before they found themselves dropped off somewhere in Smokey Gardens.

Unbeknownst to them, several of the smaller creatures and one larger one slipped through the portal and scurried off into the woods before the portal closed.

Night: "I am never going on a boat ever again..."

Location: Völsung.

Skuld had resumed her training after attending a few meetings that discussed the upcoming combat. Despite doing her best to focus, there was always something in the back of her mind. What happened to her father? Why could no one explain what the sudden illness he had was?

Where was he when it took hold? Who was around him? The timing lined up a little too well with her family having their right to rule challenged by an old foe. She wiped the sweat from her forehead and paused for a moment to catch her breath.

Skuld: "You're still watching me."

Emperor Vili: "I've told you before, everything that happens here concerns me. This is my land, my people. I do not interfere, but I must observe."

Skuld: "You know what's going to happen, don't you?"

Vili: "Not entirely. The battle will determine who is right and who isn't. Such is the way of things, the only true way to settle a dispute. However, I fear that Clarion has something in mind that I am unable to see."

"I will do my best to stop him from sticking his nose in where it doesn't belong, but he may have already set events in motion. In the end it'll be entirely up to you to deal with what may come."

"There is one other thing you need to hear.."

Skuld: "Make it quick."

Vili: "One way or another I believe your father's reign is coming to an end. What I am unable to see is who will take the throne. Perhaps your family's time is over. Your sister's fate hasn't been sewn into the great tapestry yet."

Skuld: "I won't fail. I can't."

Vili: "Perhaps not, however the outcome may remain the same. It may not be your sister's time to lead your people, it may end up being yours."

Skuld paid no attention to the statement, instead going back to her training.

Vili: "Destiny is known to change her mind on a whim. Sometimes things you believe are supposed to happen are shifted in an instant. When it's your time to fight, do so with everything that you are. Fight with every ounce of fury in your heart! You will be where you are meant to be. Fate will be revealed once it's said and done. One way or another."

Skuld continued to train for what would be the most important moment of her life, trying not to dwell on the emperor's words too much.

Meanwhile in another camp, Emperor Clarion approached Skuld's future opponent...

Location: Solis Heights.

Onyx was flung across the room for what felt like the tenth time. The moment he entered the training room was the moment his father had decided to test how far he'd come. To his credit Onyx had landed a few blows but Tyrael shrugged everything off and continued to attack.

Onyx groaned as he was barely able to dodge his father again. Tyrael struck the wall with such force that his fist got stuck for a moment. Onyx took the time to create a bit of distance and switch his gauntlets to a new mode his sister and Morado had helped him create.

Tyrael would berate Onyx for not attacking him more often. That if Onyx was going to take his place on the council, he'd have to be stronger and more skilled than this. Onyx refused to reply, simply angering his father even more.

Every time Tyrael charged or swung, Onyx dodged and took a shot at his father with his wires. Normally Tyrael was able to avoid them or just break through but on one occasion Onyx wrapped enough of them around his father's legs that it made him stumble just for a moment. Enough time for Onyx to slide by and launch himself up, one of the claws of his gauntlet leaving a scar across his father's face. It wouldn't equal the ones his father had left him with but at least it was an indication that Onyx was learning.

The two continued to fight, Onyx firing off the claws of his gauntlet, but Tyrael would deflect them, sending them into a wall and leaving them stuck. As Tyrael approached, he once more berated Onyx about not learning anything from Cal. Onyx however simply waited for his father to swing one more time.

Onyx dodged and spun around his father, wires wrapping around the larger man. Tyrael attempted to break free, but the claws Onyx fired earlier activated and connected to the wires, pulling Tyrael into the air and leaving him stuck there.

Onyx looked up at his father before walking over and picking up his hat. He turned and looked at his father laughed and congratulated him before walking out of the training room.

Lilac: "Nice job, but you know he'll be ready for that trick next time."

Onyx: "I have more important things to concern myself with now." Looking at his aShine as Violet messaged for a "Team OLIV" meeting. He still hated that name. He was also surprised Ivory was willing to pull herself away from her new girlfriend May to actually attend a meeting. Nevertheless, he'd leave the manor to meet up with his...friends.

Location: Cherry Hills.

Bea was waiting, it seemed like she'd been waiting around the entire day. She'd had it, she was going to get her answers one way or another. Nobody was making any progress in their investigations, and nobody was going to believe her even if she went into detail.

She knew her friend was alive, at least what was once her friend. She didn't know who or what Leiko was now. She didn't know who she was associating with. She didn't know why that woman from Crepusculum slaughtered them all. She didn't know anything. Just when her life was taking a turn for the better, it seemed like everything had come crumbling down.

This time though, this time was going to be different. She was going to get her answers. She was waiting near the front gate of Cherry Hills after nightfall. Sure enough a cloaked woman left the district, Bea knew it was Chiyo.

She followed her until the woman was about to head down into the tunnels before grabbing her and pulling the cloak off. Chiyo was shocked but before she could say a word, she found herself punched in the jaw with enough force to knock herself off of her feet. Bea glared down at her.

Bea: "You get one chance. Where is she and what did you do to her?"

Despite her situation Chiyo remained calm. She brushed herself off and stood up. Bea had a nice punch, something she didn't expect.

Chiyo: "I can show you.."

Location: Upper Docks.

Van: "Hey Nava, thanks for coming on such short notice. Didn't want to bother you but the captain has something to tell you. Head inside."

Nava: "You're not coming with?"

Van: "Nah, this is between you and him."

Nava nodded and walked into Larsen's office, shutting the door behind her.

Larsen: "Not gonna waste your time. We found your family's yacht. Only the yacht. We searched all over the place and found no trace of survivors or any deceased. The lifeboats weren't even deployed. It's like something happened and everyone just vanished at once. Hell, there were half empty wine glasses still sitting on the tables."

Nava: "Did you find anything? Security footage?"

Larsen: "Viridian said it was wiped. The last recording was right after the ship left Apricus. Did find something interesting though. Seems he was able to trace the last person to access the ship's logbook."

Nava: "Amorette.."

Larsen: "You guessed it. Apparently, she was looking for something in there. Now she's suddenly running the show at your family's company."

Nava: "As much as I want to do what my fiancé would suggest and march into the headquarters bashing someone's skull in, we don't actually have any solid proof of anything."

Larsen: "I can't "officially" back you on this but that doesn't mean I can't help you out. Just give Viridian some time to put together a plan. We're going to get answers from that bitch and find your parents."

Nava nodded, holding herself together as she left the office.

Van: "Seems like we've got some training to do!"

Nava: "You were listening?"

Van: "Captain Larsen speaks pretty loudly, kinda hard not to hear. Besides, it gives us a chance to work together again. Team VNLA!"

Nava: "No."

Van: "Come on, it's a good name!"

Nava sighed but smiled as she saw Lye, and Jae approach. Ajax, Bonnie, and Amias were right behind them. Was this what it was like to actually have more people who really cared about you? She still needed to get used to that.

Van: "And just in case we need em...I do have some backup."

Lye: "You don't mean.."

Van: "The Crime Bois reunion tour!"

Jae: "Crime Bois? Isn't Kash's sister Esmeray with you all now?"

Van: "She's an official Boi. It's fine."

Ajax: "Is this what I'm marrying into?"

Nava: "No backing out of it now honey, I already designed your tux."

Bonnie: "Speaking of weddings.."

Van: "Oh..uhm yeah hey look at the time, we should get training!"

Lye smirks and looks at Amias as everyone grabs their weapons.

All the while though, several individuals in rabbit masks seemed to be watching Lye, and Van from a distance..

Location: Guardian District.

Fisher: "So this "Betrayer" is someone you actually know?"

Oct: "Someone I knew once. An old teammate who I thought was dead. He claims he orchestrated everything that happened. He was responsible for what happened to our team, what happened to me."

Fisher: "I know you want to find this guy, but I can NOT have you running around the city fully armed, breaking into buildings and questioning every single criminal we bring in. The city is already dealing with too much."

Oct: "I AM going to find him. One way or another I am going to track him down and beat the answers out of him. I'll play by your rules for now but the second he shows up again all bets are off. You can either help me or get out of the way."

Fisher: "I'm not going to stand in your way. I just need your help with other pressing issues. Speaking of that, you've gotten a request to help train a friend of yours and her sister. She still isn't ready to spend any time with her mother but everything she'd been through just makes her want to get stronger."

Oct: "Just tell me when and where to meet them. As for everything else, you've got ways to contact me. Just promise me that if you get any reports of..him..you'll tell me first."

Fisher: "You've got my word. Before you leave though head down to R&D and talk to Hadrian. He's got a few things cooked up for you."

Oct saluted and exited the office. One thing was for sure, next time he was going to be ready for his old friend.

Location: Capitol Square.

The city council gathered around their usual table. A hologram of Highfather Coeus was project in the center of the table.

Highfather Coeus: "I would like to thank you again for your time. I'm afraid with everything happening recently I find it hard to match my schedule with anyone else's."

Lowell: "Oh it's quite alright Highfather. We appreciate you taking a few moments to speak with us."

Larsen: "What the hell do you want?"

Lowell: "That took longer than I expected.."

Coeus: "I only wish to extend an offer Captain. You see with the world becoming more and more unstable, Crepusculum is doing its best to keep things calm."

Styles: "By selling your fuckin weapons and energy shields and robots and whatever the fuck else? Seems to be like you're just gearing everyone up, so they start to depend on you."

Coeus: "I see not everyone is thrilled with this meeting. A shame considering how well our relationship has progressed. The trade agreement has been mutually beneficial has it not? Despite the objections from some of your members." He glances at Merek and Lucianna before turning back to Lowell.

Fisher: "I'm not sure the paranoia that has gripped the city recently is worth having a few of your merchants bringing in some extra credits."

Coeus: "We've provided you with aid in trying to track down those who infiltrated your society. The ones who perpetrated attacked did so in several other nations, mine among them if you remember correctly."

Lowell: "Be that as it may, I'm sure you can understand some people here being a bit wary."

Coeus: "Of course. In fact, it's partially why I'm here. I wish to extend an offer to your fair city. An offer to join my growing alliance. Only through unity may we overcome the conflict that threatens to keep the world fractured."

Lowell: "This is...the first I've heard of an alliance. Usually there are more official meetings about this sort of.."

Larsen: "Who's in charge of it? Let me guess, you?"

Coeus: "There would eventually be a council of course but in the beginning, I find one person is the better option. No squabbling, no backstabbing, no worries. Just security, strength, and safety for everyone involved."

Xanthos: "And what exactly happens if the city isn't interested in turning over control to someone like yourself?"

Coeus: "Nothing. It's only an offer. You're free to decline it and remain on your own."

Styles: "Well consider it declined and consider yourself told to fuck off with that dumbass idea."

Coeus: "Unfortunate. Still, I respect your decision. You may however find yourself changing your minds in time. As I stated, the world is quite unstable right now and who knows what may happen to those who decide to stand alone."

Larsen: "Is that a threat?"

Coeus: "Of course not. Just something to think about for the future. Ah, I must be going. Thank you again for your time.."

Styles slams the table and deactivates the hologram.

Fisher: "He's going to come for us eventually. I think we all expected that from the start."

Larsen: "So we kick all of his cronies out of the city and get ready."

Lowell: "No. Doing that would cause more panic and paranoia. We let them stay. We have enough ways to monitor anyone without drawing extra attention."

Merek: "I suggest we begin making preparations for the inevitable. All we have now is time, and we don't know how much of it."

Lowell: "No matter how short or how long we have, we'll be ready for whatever comes our way."

Several teams are shown practicing together.

Nava clenches her fists as she glances at Bundles of Lavender HQ.

The White Rabbit Queen watches as Cye and Lacie exit their home.

The Apricus Council begins to prepare for whatever Crepusculum sends their way in the future.

The strange creatures from the Hidden Sea have begun to create a lair under Smokey Gardens.

Skuld meets with her sister but is unable to see Clarion standing in the back of the room.

Bea and Chiyo enter an old warehouse where several others have been waiting for them.

Oct starts training with Ruby and Yang.

Highfather Coeus oversees the secret production of his new war machines in Crepusculum.

Janus Windsor and Chimera look out over the city from the spire.

Lowell and Jaime discuss the future as the sun begins to rise.

The end?

The beginning.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twenty-four: Things Left Unsaid.

Location: The Spire, Exact Center of Apricus.

Masked Man: "We're almost ready. You've managed to collect all the data I need. Combine that with the improvements I've made to Ciar's Aurora Project and we're near completion."

Chimera: "I take it everything here is..well as good as it's going to get?" Running her fingers along a large golden container in the middle of the room. It had ornate carvings covering every square inch. Tubes were connected to it which linked it to other various equipment in the room. Perhaps the strangest of all were the cables connecting it to the top of the spire itself.

Masked Man: "I've spent a lifetime preparing for this. All the scrolls and tomes that Julius allowed me access to in the underground cathedral. All the data I've had you acquire. The Aurora Project details that our friends were kind enough to steal for me. The work I put in over the years. The test run from that ridiculous Checkmate invasion. The procedure with Xanthos' daughter."

Chimera: "I get it, you're good to go. So why don't you just throw the switch and get started already?"

The man reaches up and removes his mask, putting it down on the table beside him.

Janus Windsor: "Because we're still lacking one particular thing. Lucky for us, I do believe nature is about to provide it." He glances outside as the storm clouds start to roll in.

Location: Hidden Sea.

Sunil: "Puck? Who was that?" Watching as Puck walks back from a conversation with a woman Sunil couldn't identify.

Puck: "She doesn't matter anymore."

Sunil: "I'm not gonna push you to talk about anything you don't want to but if you need to let anything out, you know I'm here."

Puck: "She told me what I wanted to know, she told me where my parents are. My actual parents."

Sunil: "Holy shit...well once we get out of here, we can go find em!"

Puck smiles at Sunil but shakes his head and just continues to walk.

Puck: "Where's everybody else?"

Sunil: "Exploring the islands, I guess. I've been trying to figure out how we're gonna get out of here since we sorta rode down a waterfall to get here and that waterfall is gone."

Cerise: "I've got it covered." Making her way out of the jungle.

Sunil: "GAH FUCK ME, don't just pop out of nowhere like that. Also, what the fuck do you mean you have it covered."

Cerise: "Just know that I can only do it once, so everybody is gonna have to be ready to go when we decide it's time. You two come find me when you're ready. I'll be on the beach."

Puck: "And I thought I was cryptic."

Sunil: "Oh right. I did promise you I'd tell you that story you've been asking to hear if we survived. A long way back when I was doing off the books work for..a certain organization I can't name..I was stationed with a small squad.." Sunil continues to talk as they look for Night, Hugo, and Sable."

Location: Upper Docks.

Lye and her mother had been walking for a while now. Lacie giving no clear indication of where they were going, at least until they came to a stop in front of a small shrine.

Lacie: "It's probably been a little while since you've been out here. I admit it is out of the way and kind of in a secluded area."

Lye: "Who's this for? I don't..really remember coming to this one."

Lacie: "Let me continue what I was telling you before." Taking a seat on a nearby bench and having Lye sit next to her. "Your father had no choice but to fight. He was exhausted from his trials with the Emperors and now he was being forced to fight someone we'd once been close to. The lives of several of our clan were on the line. Nothing made sense. Your father was being torn apart both physically, and emotionally. You know your father though, he wouldn't give in, he wouldn't give her what she wanted."

"It was evenly matched for a while, but the longer it went the more it started to favor her. Your father continued to stand up, he was going to fight until his last breath to save his clan. She had offered him one final time to rule beside her, to unite the clans. For a moment I believe h considered it but, in the end, he knew what kind of a person she truly was now, that she could never be trusted with our future."

"She was infuriated. Your father was knocked to the ground. Broken bones, bleeding, likely near the end but unwilling to give up. She channeled whatever powers she now possessed, creating a sphere of dark energy. The same type of energy she used on you. She meant to destroy your father as well as engulf the rest of us in flames."

"When she went to launch her attack, your father mustered everything he had left. Fully willing to sacrifice himself. He threw himself forward and struck the attack, causing it to detonate. The energy exploded; your father took the worst of it. The dark flames burning his body and rendering his arm useless. However, due to the fact she wasn't able to throw it, the explosion of her attack also struck her. The last I saw of her she clutched her face and was sent screaming into the sea, sinking down beneath the waves."

Lye: "So, Dad won?"

Lacie: "No. I believe she anticipated a possible defeat and had rigged a dead man's switch. Your father tried to crawl along the ground using his one good arm but there wasn't enough time. The area where she'd been keeping members of our clan captive...and had many of her own clan stationed as guards was incinerated in an instant."

"All your father could do was reach out before succumbing to his wounds."

Lye: "This shrine is.."

Lacie: "Our clan is honored elsewhere. This was made to honor the members of her clan that she sacrificed. Those that were caught in her twisted desire for power."

Lye: "You've never once said her name."

Lacie: "It's not wise to speak of the devil. You run the risk of having her appear."

Lye stood and stepped closer to the shrine. At the very bottom of a list was a name that seemed partially scratched off.

Lye: "She was your friend once, right? That's why you still added her, despite what she did."

Lacie: "We should get back, it's starting to rain again.."

Location: Apricus Sewers.

Why was she back here? After everything she witnessed during her previous expedition, why would she ever want to come back. The answer was simple, the woman she once loved. Was it still here? Was that thing she saw before still Leiko in some way? What happened to her? Bea needed to know.

Traversing the sewers was never an easy task but she'd been lucky enough to acquire a small map of the tunnels that ran underneath at least a small part of the city. She'd been making er way to what she thought were possible locations she could find those..people in. Were they still people?

There were voices again, chants echoing from somewhere nearby. Perhaps she'd finally found something, or perhaps it would end up just being another group of union workers. Who knew? She moved closer and the voices seemed to suddenly grow quiet.

She heard some sort of commotion happening. Making her way over to see a section of the wall torn apart. She recognized the pattern on the bricks from before, the same style entrance. This time though someone had forcefully entered.

Bea glanced inside and held her hand over her mouth to muffle any possible scream. Whoever those people were she saw before, they had been massacred. Bodies lying throughout the room with cybernetic implants ripped out of them. In the center of the room was a woman. She recognized her, one of the representatives from Crepusculum. The woman let another body drop before placing something on the ground.

At the far end of the room was..Leiko! Slumped against the altar, seemingly still alive but broken. Bea had no time to think as the woman turned around and made her way out of the chamber. Bea had managed to hide herself well enough, though she wore the woman looked directly at her hiding spot and smiled before moving on.

Bea rushed into the room and knelt down to check on Leiko. She'd try and help what was once her friend back to her feet. Slowly walking her back to the entrance to at least get her out of the chamber. She was startled as the device planted by the strange woman a moment ago beeped and started to tick down.

As they reached the entrance, the device went off. It created seismic activity which caused the chamber to crumble apart, bringing down several layers of rubble and burying everything. Leiko grabbed Bea and dove out of the entrance into the tunnel just as the chamber was destroyed.

Bea rubbed the back of her head as she sat up. She must have hit her head during the escape. Looking around there was no trace of Leiko. No trace of anyone. She was back at square one again. She'd stand and look around; all she could do now was make her way back to the surface. Nobody was going to believe any of this, she'd be on her own. She accepted that, it just meant she had to work harder to find her friend again.

Location: Völsung.

Skuld had secluded herself, living behind civilization to train for what assuredly would be the most important moment of her life so far. Her first true test. Perhaps her only test should things not go in her favor. It was strange, all of this happening at once. Her father falling ill just a challenger approached. Her family's claim to the throne was now in question and it fell to her to fight for it.

It hardly bothered her that one of the Emperors was watching her train. She seemed to have been having more conversations with one or two of them after being declared a winner during the Olympus tournament. Still, she wouldn't lose focus, she couldn't afford to.

Emperor Vili: "It's good to see my people still honor the old ways. A test of strength, speed, agility, tactics. Only through battle can right and wrong be decided."

Emperor Clarion appeared out of a portal next to Vili.

Clarion: "I love a good show as much as anyone else, and your people are quite good at it. Though I do wonder if this one is in the right."

Vili: "We will find out soon enough."

Clarion: "Maybe I should have phrased it differently. This one is fighting for her family's right to rule. Her father might be on death's door which means her sister would ascend to the throne. Is her sister really worthy of it? This one seems much more capable."

Vili: "Everyone has their path, hers is different from her sister."

Clarion: "Her sister will attempt to bring your precious nation into a more modern era. Your old ways will slowly be forgotten over time. Her sister is weak. This one is strong."

"But...as strong as she is, what happens if she falters. What happens if her opponent proves more worthy. Wouldn't that be an interesting twist."

Clarion smirked before exiting through another portal.

Skuld turned to look at Vili.

Skuld: "What did he say?"

Vili: "You couldn't see or hear him, but you still sensed his presence. Impressive. As for anything else, some things are best left unsaid. Continue training, don't lose focus."

Skuld turned her back to Vili, returning to her training. Her mind seemed a bit clouded though, something about this didn't seem right.

Location: Capitol Square.

Mayor Lowell: "I imagine you all know why I've called this meeting." Looking around at the city council, all of them except Tiberius Ciar who was said to be keeping to himself in Ciar Tower.

"I know some of you have already voiced your concerns about who I've picked as my deputy mayor, and hopefully the person who can take my place when I'm done. I know others have voiced their approval. I just want you all to know I've taken everything into consideration, but I do believe I'm making the right choice. I believe this is what will be best for the future of Apricus."

"I will be making a public announcement soon and introducing my choice to all of Apricus. I hope our citizens are willing to continue putting their trust in me, and in the decisions I make. I've lived my entire life wanting nothing more than to do whatever I can for this city, and her people."

"That being said, we need to move on to the other reason you're all here. I received a request for a meeting with Highfather Coeus of Crepusculum. I've decided to approve his request and ask that all of you at least try to get along with him when the meeting takes place. I have hope that perhaps we can further cement a mutually beneficial relationship between our nations."

"That's all for now. Thank you all for your time."

Location: Solis Heights.

Onyx was gathering his things as he prepared to meet up with the rest of...what did Violet call it? OLIV? He still wasn't sure about that name. Still, they did work together well. He exited his room only to find his sister waiting for him in the hallway.

Onyx: "Shouldn't you be at the university?"

Lilac: "Taking a break. Don't want to keep you but father has requested your presence in one of the training rooms."

Onyx: "And I care why?"

Lilac: "Hey I did my part, don't shoot the messenger. You can go see what dear old dad wants or you can leave and really piss him off. Both outcomes will probably be a little amusing to me."

"Just a note though, if you DO go and see what he wants...I'd be ready for a fight."

Onyx: "No other reason he would request a meeting in a training room of all places."

Onyx glanced down the hallway and decided to head to the training room. Perhaps it was finally time to have a few words with Tyrael.

Location: Apricus City.

The skies had darkened as the storm finally rolled in. A steady downpour of rain making people in the streets hurry for cover. Thunder booming as lightning strikes occasionally lit up the sky.

Unbeknownst to everyone, the Spire slowly came to life. Lights flickering on as power surged through the strange structure. The top of the building slide open as a lightning rod raised up.

Inside the Spire equipment began to activate. The container in the center of the main chamber sat awaiting a final offering of power. All there was to do now was wait for just the right moment..

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twenty-three: Aurora.

Location: Ciar Tower, Aurora Vale.

Hades: "And you're sure she can keep everything in check for a little while?"

Russ: "She's got the security systems locked up. All surveillance has been put on a loop. She even faked a few emergencies to get Ciar Security out of the district. She won't be able to keep it up forever though."

Hades: "Good enough." He'd put down a small spider robot that scurried over and began its work.

Russ: "And YOU'RE sure this is gonna get us into the labs?" Watching the robot cut its way up from the tunnels below Ciar Tower.

Hades: "Not my first rodeo breaking into this place. They aren't that clever."

Kash meanwhile was oddly silent as everything was going on. Only snapping out of it when a chunk of the ceiling fell down and the robot moved on to the next layer.

Russ: "You ok?"

Kash: "Yeah, I just wish Van was here."

Russ: "Why?"

Kash: "I dunno, seems like it would be more fun with everyone together."

The robot cut through another layer. A chunk of metal fell down, bringing with it a rather confused Van Marigold.

Russ: "Wish granted?"

Hades: "What the fuck?"

Van: "Uh, hi?"

Van: "What the hell are you guys doing here?"

Kash: "Hi Van!"

Van: "Hey Kash."

Russ: "We're breaking into the tower...what does it look like?"

Hades: "Start talking before I roast you.."

Van: "Try it fuckhead.."

Kash: "No fighting!"

Van: "Ugh fine. I was breaking into the tower. Security was low and I managed to get in through the air ducts. I just crawled out and the second my feet hit the ground, the ground proceeded to fall down here."

Hades: "What business do you have here?"

Van: "The weird fucking rabbit syndicate mentioned Aurora. Andrasta won't talk about it. Needed to find out what it was for myself."

Kash: "Cool! Us too! Let's go see!"

Van: "I don't trust your boss.."

Hades: "You went a good portion of your existence trusting me."

Van: "Everybody makes mistakes.."

Russ: "Come on.."

The spider robot moved up into the tower before lowering down cables to climb up. The group somewhat reluctantly followed.

The room they entered into was far below Ciar Tower. A scientific facility of some sort. Strange equipment was everywhere. A room connected to it seemed to house several chambers that were currently empty. Some of the chambers were damaged.

Hades: "Can she get into the system?"

Van: "Who?"

Russ: "Top secret, but yes she can." He sat down in front of a console, plugging in a small device. "Give me a few minutes."

Kash hated this place. He had no idea why, but he did. It smelled bad, smelled kind of like the girl he met. Something about it almost made him sick. Still, he wandered around the room.

Eventually making his way into the room with the chambers, he reached out and ran his fingers along one. Flashes of events suddenly seemed to force their way into his brain. He remembered something, or rather was trying to remember. It was all scattered, like puzzle pieces that didn't quite match up.

Van and Hades both seemed to be content waiting for Russ. Both occasionally looking at each other as if waiting for the other person to strike.

Van: "Why me?"

Hades: "What?"

Van: "You heard me, WHY ME. Why did you focus on me?"

Hades: "Because you were broken. You wanted a place; I gave it to you."

Van: "You used me! Turned me into a weapon!"

Hades: "You had a choice. You always had a choice! You wanted so desperately to have something, anything. A purpose. You wanted to focus all that rage. I didn't make you a weapon, you were already one. All I did was point you in a direction."

Van: "What about them.."

Hades: "Russ is brilliant, the world never saw him for what he was or what he could be. Kash was lost, looking for something that he shouldn't ever find.."

Van: "What...do you mean by that? What do you know?"

Hades: "Not everything. The last time I was in this tower I did some digging. I found information about Aurora..and something that may relate to our mutual friend."

Russ: "Oh my god.." he pushed the chair back away from the console as if something terrible had happened.

Kash came running back, a smile on his face.

Kash: "You find something?"

Before Russ could respond, an elevator dinged, and the doors were forced open. A sole occupant stepped out and looked around.

Tiberius Ciar: "I'm amazed you managed to fool so many of our systems. It's actually quite impressive." Holding out his hand to show a hologram of an AI that has been quarantined. "But she's not perfect."

Kash looked over, seeing Ciar's face seemed to trigger more memories, as if he was looking out from one of the chambers and saw that very same face.

Russ: "Let her go.."

Van: "You made an AI? Russ.."

Ciar: "Quite illegal you know. So is literally everything you're doing now but this, this could get you locked up for life or exiled."

Russ: "You don't have any room to talk!"

Hades: "Long time no see. I kicked your ass before and I'm pretty sure I can do it again, but I want to know what the fuck this is."

Tiberius: "Go ahead." Looking over at Russ.

Russ: "Aurora is about awakened abilities. He's spent literally two lifetimes trying to find a way to manipulate them. Being able to awaken them whenever we want, being able to control them perfectly, being able to have the strongest abilities possible."

Tiberius: "And?"

Russ: "And.." He had to stop and look around as if trying to compose himself. "He's engineering them. Trying to pick and choose abilities instead of having them be natural. There were...experiments."

Hades: "Wow, and they called me a fuckin psychopath."

Tiberius: "Do you really think I haven't heard that before? I've spent years trying to perfect something we had to leave up to chance. Trying to unlock something everyone else is too stupid to understand."

"Those experiments were willing people. Ones that wanted to be better, ones that knew the risks. Trying to force an awakened ability on to someone proved impossible. None of the subjects survived. Always a failure. However, the data I gained would pave the way for the next step."

Russ: "Children.."

Tiberius: "Originally I wondered if the process would work on younger individuals. Trial and error. Eventually we settled on creating our own. The first few batches were..."

Van: "You're a monster.."

Tiberius: "If I recall correctly, so were you."

Hades reached out and held Van back from attacking.

Tiberius: "We eventually started to have some success. Esmeray is nearly perfect, but her ability is unstable. Her older brother however was perfect. We even managed to replicate Larsen's ability."

Every word Ciar spoke was like a puzzle piece moving and fitting into place for Kash. He was remembering everything. He slowly started to make his way over to his friends as if in a trance.

Hades: "Tell him the truth! Did you take him from someone, or did you create him yourself?"

Tiberius: "I don't honestly remember. It's not important. Even if he was donated from someone, they are likely long gone. Aside from Esmeray, the boy has no family. I'm sorry if that isn't the answer you came here for but it's the truth."

Kash: "Nah, I got a family." Even after everything he'd heard he still smiled as he stood next to Hades, Russ, and Van.

Tiberius: "I could help you. We could find out so much more. We could help each other.."

Russ: "You lost your research, didn't you? It's why you haven't continued the project. Someone stole it and is already doing it better."

Tiberius: "If they reach perfection before I'm able to, this entire world is going to suffer. I am not the villain of this story. I'm the one trying to move our very species on to the next step! I'm trying to save us!"

Van: "Pretty sure the world would be better off without you or anyone else playing mad scientist with children's lives.."

Russ: "I'll give YOU a chance. Let her go like I asked you before or I leak this information to the rest of the council.."

Tiberius: "You're claiming some sort of moral high ground when you went out of your way to create this monstrosity I'm holding. In any case let me ask you something. Do you think the council to be innocent?"

During the conversation, Hades had slipped something to Van before motioning to a few different areas.

Russ: "What are you talking about?"

Tiberius: "Xanthos had a hand in the Nephthys situation. Cheshire has more dirty laundry than you can imagine. Fisher continued a version of an imperial research project. Merek, the High Priestess? Guilty of crimes. Larsen, and Styles have their share of blood on their hands. Bell? Oh, if you only knew. Shall I keep going?"

Van: "Nah." Van turned and threw several small orbs around the room, each exploding when they hit their targets. Enough of a distraction for Russ to press a button on the device he had connected to the console, purging the entire system of any Aurora data.

Hades shot a jet of flame forward at Tiberius, taking him by surprise and knocking him backwards. The small disk he held slid across the floor. Kash scrambled for it to save his friend's AI creation. Managing to pocket it.

Tiberius stood and threw his jacket off before the flames could spread to him. Unfolding his blades and rushing at Kash. Russ moved out of instinct and shoved Kash out of the way, in the process one of the blades stuck Russ, slashing him across the eye.

Hades ran over and helped Russ up, ripping a bit of cloth from his shirt and wrapping it over Russ's eye. The entire tower began to shake, the facility they were in was becoming unstable, the ceiling like to come down any moment. The elevator Tiberius had used was called back up, reinforcements or a rescue team were likely on the way.

Seeing his friend hurt was enough to send Kash into a rage, his power activating. The pipes running through the walls and ceiling burst apart, a torrent of water flowing down. Kash controlled it with ease, sending it directly at Tiberius and sending him backwards with enough force to break open the doors to the elevator shaft before washing him down it.

Van helped Russ and Hades back down the opening they had come up from before calling for Kash who snapped out of it and ran over to join his friend. Van and Kash jumping down just as the ceiling collapsed.

Some time later:

Location: Upper Docks.

Kash: "So he's gonna be ok?"

Viridian: "Yeah, Nerys will take care of your friend. Took a nasty hit and may be down one eye but he'll recover just fine."

Kash: "And you're not gonna like arrest us?"

Viridian: "Kind of hard to arrest someone who isn't here. Your boss will be waiting for you once Russ is healed. Van called in a favor, Captain said everything is off the record."

Kash: "Whew, I'd hate to miss the new Morely movie."

Viridian: "By the way, you have a visitor."

Kash turned to the door and smiled as a young woman entered.

Kash: "Hey Sis!"

Esmeray smiled and rushed over to hug Kash.

Van watched from across the dock, Larsen walking up next to him.

Van: "What happened with Ciar?"

Larsen: "He'll survive. He's like a cockroach."

Van: "Think he'll come after us?"

Larsen: "No. His project is ruined, and he feels humiliated. Knowing him he'll pretend nothing happened."

Van: "I just wonder, Russ said the Aurora data was stolen. Tiberius was worried what would happen if it got perfected."

Larsen: "Worry about it later, right now you've got training to do."

Van: "Fuck, fine. I guess you did do me a favor."

Larsen: "Doin you another one too. Now pick up your weapon and come at me again!"

Van readied his bat and nodded. "You asked for it!"

The two ran directly at each other, weapons clashing.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twenty-two: Family.

Location: Somewhere in Apricus.

Hades: "Strange, usually he doesn't ask us to look up anything that isn't Morely related."

Russ: "Something spooked him. He says he thinks he knows that girl from somewhere. Or at the very least, she smelled like somewhere he's been but can't remember."

Hades: "Esmeray." Turning one of the monitors to Russ.

Russ: "Ciar Industries employee but without an official job title. There is literally nothing here except basic trivia."

Hades: "Do you remember back during the Ciar gala when Kash got sick? You two were close to the labs, weren't you? If I was a betting man, I'd say we need to get into those labs. The girl probably smells like them, at least to Kash."

Russ: "Awful lot of trouble breaking into one of the most secure buildings in the city."

Hades: "If we were anyone else but us, yes."

Russ: "I'll get her ready, she knows how to navigate the Ciar systems."

Hades: "I'll get Kash and meet you near the tower. There are a few points of entry we can pick from. I do wonder though, what is this really all about."

Russ: "Kash wants to find out where he came from. We owe it to him to try and figure it out."

Hades: "Maybe so but I do worry he won't like the answers he finds.."

Location: Solis Heights.

The war museum was always a mixed bag for Oct. Some of the exhibits were things before his time, others were items he recognized. A large exhibit was dedicated to the might of the empire. The same project that paved the way for people like him. He stood there for a good while just taking everything in. He'd seen it all before, many times. Yet it never failed to stir up emotions. So much so that he was glad no one else was around. He'd have to thank Commander Fisher for the 24/7 access.

When he finally finished, he made his way outside. The cool autumn air was a welcome change, it'd been entirely too hot up until now. It was at that moment he rolled out of the way as a blade swung for his head. The improved agility of his upgraded armor certainly did come in handy. He quickly turned and fired off a few shots in the direction of his attacker.

To say he wasn't surprised to see the so-called "Betrayer" was an understatement. The two had clashed several times leading up to this. This time though, this time he was going to get his answers one way or another. Pulling out his chainsword and meeting his opponent head-on. His weapon creating sparks as it struck the Betrayer's blade.

Each of them tried pushing the other back but neither was able to gain real ground. Until of course Oct let go of his sword and spun to the side. The Betrayer's own momentum made him stumble forward just enough for Oct to land some strong hits, knocking the Betrayer's sword away and forcing him to focus on defenses. No point in pulling out any other weapons, it would just waste time. Just keep hitting him. The strategies were running through his mind. The best option seemed to be just keep attacking, don't let his opponent manage to go back on offense.

The relentless assault continued. Oct even managed to spin behind his bulkier opponent before landing more strikes to the helmet. The Betrayer finally managed to get an opening and slide forward, grabbing his chainsword again. Oct however had anticipated this and had grabbed his own as well. Oct's slight advantage in speed allow him to strike first, bring his blade down on the Betrayer's helmet. Sparks flew once more and the helmet started to split apart, forcing the Betrayer to fall back.

The Betrayer seemed amused. Putting his weapon away before reaching up and discarding his helmet. Oct finally was able to get a look at the face hidden behind the helmet that had haunted him. It was a face he'd seen before, one that made him drop his weapon. One that made his very blood run cold.

Betrayer: "I was hoping for a more spectacular reveal, but I suppose this one has to do. Been a while, hasn't it?" Though his face was heavily scarred it was still recognizable as a member of Oct's old team.

Betrayer: "You know, if you'd have just stayed out of our business this wouldn't have had to happen. You could have gone the rest of your life thinking I was dead."

Oct: "Adreas...how..."

Betrayer: "Did you really think the syndicate was working on its own? As good as they are, they had no way of knowing where we were going to be. What we were going to be doing that day. I made a deal, my own survival and something I very much was willing to sell you all out for. In return, well you can guess the rest." Smirking as he watched the shock in Oct's face be replaced with rage.

Just as Oct was about to unleash everything, he had against his former teammate he felt a searing pain surge through his entire body. He fell to the ground, unable to move. A masked member of the white rabbit group walked into view carrying a strange weapon. Obviously, what had rendered Oct helpless.

White Rabbit: "The Queen requests your assistance. Do you wish to dispose of this one?"

Betrayer: "Not yet. I want him to have all the answers first. If he's smart enough to find them." He picked up his damaged helmet before leaning down to look at Oct.

Betrayer: "If it matters, I did feel a little bad about what I had to do. You all were family after all." Shrugging as he stood up and took his leave.

Oct managed to pull himself along the ground and leaned against a nearby tree. Tapping an emergency button on his armor. It wouldn't be long before help arrived. A thousand new questions occupied his mind as he was loaded into a medical vehicle.

Location: Upper Docks.

Lye finished up cleaning off the tables, her shift at the restaurant having ended a few moments ago. Well, the operating hours themselves had just ended when her mother flipped the sign on the door to closed.

Lye: "I don't think Dad is ever going to give me a straight answer. Says I shouldn't worry about it and to focus on more important things but..."

Lacie: "But you can't stop thinking about it can you?" She sighed and pulled a chair out, taking a seat and motioning for Lye to do the same."

Lacie: "I wasn't the only one who had eyes for your father. There was a woman my age.."

Lye: "Wait, are you going to tell me all this is about a crush or something really cliche like that?"

Lacie: "Not entirely. She was my best friend growing up. Wasn't a member of our clan but her own clan and ours had a blood bond. We were as close to family as you could get without being official. If things were different, she likely would be like an aunt to you now."

Lye: "What happened?"

Lacie: "Your father was undergoing his trials. You know the story he told you as children about having to face one of the emperors. Well, your father embellishes a lot. Some of what he said was true, some of it was well..."

Lye: "I know, but where does your friend fit in."

Lacie: "She was growing jealous of me. She wanted your father for her own. The truth was he never had eyes for her, I think it started to eat away at her over time..until she did something terrible."

Lye: "What...did she do?" Leaning forward as she listened to her mother.

Lacie: "Your father was gone away on another attempt to become chieftain. She took advantage of this and convinced members of her clan that your father would be a terrible leader, that he would bring us all to ruin. She has this gift, people just..listen to her and become enraptured."

"There was a coup. The current chieftain, your grandmother was getting older and had taken ill. The other clan struck; we were unprepared. I tried to reason with her but.." She rolled up her sleeve and showed scars on her arm. Scars Lye had seen before but never truly questioned.

"Her power comes from another god. A darker one, I don't know what she did or what she offered to attain it, and I don't want to think too much about that. In any case they struck down many of us, she had no regard for anyone's life."

Lye: "What was the point, what did she want to accomplish?"

Lacie: "She proclaimed herself chieftain. Her goal was to force your father into pledging himself to her. They would rule together, in exchange there would be no more bloodshed. Your father was successful and was sent back to us. We were instructed to keep quiet about the situation or those she had decided to capture would be executed."

"After the initial celebration had ended, she made her grand entrance. Your father had professed his love for me, but I turned him down. I had to."

Lye: "They fought, didn't they?"

Lacie: "Yes, but not without great cost. Your father was in a situation where there was no way out and no way to win. The so-called greatest failure she told you about..." She'd sigh and stand up. "Come on, we need to take a walk."

Lye nodded and stood up, following her mother to an unknown destination.

Location: Apricus Sewers.

Beatrix had no idea what she was doing or why she was even down here. This had to be some sort of mistake. She wasn't able to sleep and had taken a walk only to notice Chiyo of all people leaving Cherry Hills. She quietly followed and kept out of sight, curious what the other woman was up to.

When she saw Chiyo stop and converse with some hooded figure, more questions started to arise. She ducked behind a building as the two spoke. Moments later Chiyo was on her way back to Cherry Hills. Beatrix though was more interested in the other figure, decided to tail them.

The trip had taken her down into the sewers where she struggled to keep up and retain a low profile. Eventually though the hooded figure entered what seemed to be a secret room behind a false wall. Beatrix followed but stopped outside of the room, listening to the multitude of voices chanting inside.

One voice however seemed far too familiar. It sounded like Leiko but..different. Couldn't be, Leiko was gone. She waited for the right time and looked around the corner into the room. The hooded figure had taken center stage behind a podium and began to speak to the others. Beatrix's eyes went wide as the figure removed her hood to reveal what once may have been Leiko.

Beatrix pulled back, her heart beating out of her chest. What did they do to her, was that really her? Nothing made any sense, what could she do? She didn't dare reveal herself for fear of what could happen. Who could she even tell? Chiyo was talking to this being, so that took her out of the equation. Was Chiyo in on it..whatever it was? She had no time to think as she heard footsteps approaching.

Deciding that there would be time for questions later. She crept away, slipping back into the shadows so she could find an alternate exit from the sewers. Maybe those conspiracy theories she'd been hearing weren't just theories after all...

Location: Hidden Sea

Night: "Well..we're alive.."

Sable: "Barely, and I think the ship might be wrecked."

Hugo: "Yeah but look where we fuckin are! This has got to be it! The hidden sea!"

What remained of their ship was currently resting on the pristine white sand that surrounded the strange island. The island itself was one in a chain encircling one island in the middle. Behind them was nothing, no trace of the waterfall they had tumbled over.

Cerise: "Ok, done throwing up now I think.." shaking herself off as she looked around.

Sunil: "If this really is where we think it is...why is the island in the middle still here?"

Night: "What do you mean?"

Cerise: "He means that in the stories, the ancient civilization that lived there sunk the entire island to destroy some race of space bugs or something."

Sunil: "And yet there it is..."

Hugo: "Forget that! One of these islands has that hunk of space metal! If we find that fucking thing, I can make the best weapons and armor anyone has ever seen!"

Sable: "You already do."

Hugo: "Just means I can charge more for em babe."

Sunil: "Uh, nother question."

Cerise: "Has anyone seen Puck?"

During the rather violent descent, Puck had found himself thrown from the ship and separated from the group. He came to in a small section of tropical jungle, looking around and being impressed by the sheer size of the trees.

Little did he know, someone was watching through his very eyes. Talos sat in his lab in Apricus, amazed by what these fools had managed to discover. Puck was proving to be an extremely useful tool. Soon Crepusculum would lay claim to these islands and any materials or ancient technology hidden there.

Puck wandered a bit before hearing the other's talking. Though before he could exit the jungle, a strange portal of sorts opened up behind him and a figure stumbled out. The woman was barely able to stand and tried to focus on Puck. He turned and for a moment was stunned at who it was. The two simply looked at each other in silence. Talos zoomed his camera in to get a better look, smirking at who Puck had found himself with..

To be continued.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twenty-one: What's A Queen To A God?

Location: Palace Of The Five Emperors.

A woman had made her way through all the obstacles just for a chance at speaking to one of the emperors. She had come with a rather large entourage however most of them had found themselves temporarily detained.

The woman found herself alone as she stood in the middle of the courtyard. Four of the five thrones were empty, their usual occupants currently dealing with other business. Emperor Clarion however was sitting on their throne as they flipped a coin in the air over and over again.

Clarion: "Funny seeing you here, didn't think you'd be the type to undertake any of the trials."

Woman: "I did not come here to go through any ridiculous trials. I came here to.."

Clarion: "Ask me for a favor, yes I know. I already gave you one of those back during the Olympus tournament. Be thankful I haven't come to collect my fee for that one yet. What do you have that you could even think of offering me for ANOTHER favor?"

Woman: "You should watch your tone; you know who I AM."

Clarion: "What you are is nothing compared to me! No matter what power you believe yourself to have, it's insignificant. I could have your entire bloodline wiped out without a second thought. However, I am feeling generous enough to at least hear your request."

The woman clenched her fists as she attempted to remain calm. She was so used to being able to do as she wished that this entire situation was simply unheard of. Even still, she had no choice.

Woman: "I want him back."

Clarion: "Ah yes, the one I allowed your underlings to try and retrieve. They failed miserably. I wonder though, do you even remember what he is to you? Family? Or simply another possession?"

Woman: "Just tell me what you want in return."

Clarion: "Oh I doubt you can offer me anything except perhaps some amusement. Here's my offer. I can send you to where he ends up and you may try on your own, with no help. In return, something you covet will become mine."

Woman: "I...FINE. I accept."

Clarion: "Excellent. I'll send you there when they arrive. Do try and put on something of a show. I've been bored long enough.."

Location: Upper Docks.

The leaves had already begun to change colors, many drifting to the ground. The warmth of summer becoming a distant memory as fall began, and with it came the Hallows Day season..

Van: "Any luck getting information out of Dad?"

Lye: "No, he brushes me off every time I ask. I knew he wouldn't say anything."

Van: "The fact he's not saying anything means there IS something to all of this. Something isn't right."

Lye: "I told you what the white rabbit leader said. Something about Dad's greatest failure. She knew us, she knows our family. Hey, did you find out anything about Aurora?"

Van: "Andrasta only gave me five minutes and barely said a word after I was done with the questions. To be honest, I think it has something to do with awakened abilities. Not sure what but everything sort of points to that right? Speaking of, how's the uh..stuff?"

Lye: "You mean the ability I didn't know I had? It's hard to really describe. I guess it's like the one you suddenly discovered yourself. Do you think these are the gifts?"

Van: "I don't think Tagetes gave the powers to us. She might have just provided the spark to start the fire. Woke it up I guess."

Lye: "Yeah maybe. Anyway come on, Mom wants us both at the restaurant."

Van: "Captain Larsen has a funny sense of humor, giving me leave right when the place needs everyone to work..."

Lye snickered a little before heading off with her brother to work their shifts.

Location: Aurora Vale.

Kash: "Gimme the triple scoop with extra sprinkles, a swirl of peanut butter, some cookie dough crumbles, hot fudge, and a bunch of whipped cream please. OH, and one of the collectable Morely cones. Actually two, two is good."

The younger girl sitting next to Kash turned to him and smiled.

Esmeray: "Ohhh good choice, I've done that before!"

Aside from the two of them the ice cream parlor was empty. People would likely be coming in later though. Kash knew the best times to visit these places and avoid the crowds while still being able to get any promotional items he wanted.

He turned back and smiled at Esmeray, nodding his head. Though it only took a moment before something caught him off guard. The girl had a strange..smell. She didn't stink, it was more like..the smell of something she'd been around. Somewhere she'd been. Something that reminded him of something he couldn't quite place his finger on.

He heard Russ in his head telling him NOT to mention anything. Telling people they smelt weird was not particularly good social behavior.

Kash: "You like Morely?" The old default.

Esmeray: "Ya! I love Morely & Friends! It's really cool. One of the branches of the company I work for actually produces the show!"

And so, the two of them spent the next hour or so eating ice cream and discussing Morely lore. All the while though, Kash couldn't shake the strange feeling he got from this girl. He'd have to talk to Russ and Hades about this later.

Location: Out to Sea.

Cerise: "Uh am I the only one that sees a waterfall ahead of us?"

Sunil: "What the fuck do you mean waterfall? We're in the middle of the ocean....holy shit what the fuck?"

Puck: "Maybe we should uh ya know, change course?"

Night: "My compass is pointing at the waterfall.."

Hugo: "Well changing course isn't an option because there's a storm brewing behind us and those waves don't look too pleasant."

Sable: "So we're effectively being pushed towards a waterfall in the middle of the ocean that will probably kill us. This isn't how I imagined I'd go."

Hugo: "Nobody is dying on my watch! Everyone listen! Lock the wheel and secure the sails. Once we're done, everyone get below deck and secure yourselves with whatever you can find!"

Cerise: "So we're trusting the compass?"

Sunil: "We're trusting the compass. Larsen had it for a reason and it seems to like Night."

The crew rushed around to secure the ship as it drifted closer to the impossible waterfall. Everyone quickly made their way below deck, securing the doors before securing themselves as best they could.

Puck: "So about that thing you wanted to tell me about. Since we're about to die it might be a good time!"

Sunil: "I'll tell you when we make it through this!"

Puck had no time to respond as the ship began to creak and crack. A moment of silence followed before it sailed over the edge and plummeted into the unknown.

Location: Apricus City.

Lydia Reliford: "Hello Apricus, Lydia Reliford here bringing you the evening news. The ship belonging to the Lavender family may have been located by a passing cruise ship. Captain Larsen has asked us not to disclose any details until he and a crew are able to investigate. If this is the Lavender's vessel, we hope everyone that was aboard is safe. We'll bring you updates when we can."

"Moving on to more local news, a series of robberies have taken place around the city. Each location seemingly more impossible than the last. The ADN is asking any and all available detective agencies to look into different crime scenes. No one has reported any injuries or even property damage. Nothing has been found on any surveillance systems. The awakened ability sensors never picked up a thing. It's as if things simply vanished magically into thin air."

"On to the weather. We'll be getting a bit chillier soon as we head into fall. Expect a few showers next week with a possible thunderstorm here and there. Nothing major but make sure you bring an umbrella just in case."

"Remember, Hallows Day is right around the corner so look for all sorts of activities to be popping up on the radar. Some districts have already begun putting up decorations. We'll be sure to let you know as soon as all the spooky fun really gets going."

"That's it for now. Thank you for tuning in and have a wonderful night."

Location: Upper Docks.

Van turned off the television after the news ended and went back to cleaning up after the last patron left. He had decided to take the closing shift and let Lye head off to discuss an upcoming play with the rest of the theater group.

He'd click his aShine radio back on as he walked over and flipped the sign on the door to closed. After spending a few moments cleaning the tables he stopped and glanced out of the window. The streetlights were flickering on one by one.

The wind picked up a little bit as the rain started, leaves being blown across the ground. For a moment he swore he saw a figure in the distance standing still and looking towards the restaurant. The concern was enough to make him reach for his bat which he always kept close by after the last few things he'd been through.

Still, perhaps it was nothing. When he looked again the figure was gone, maybe there was never one to begin with. He reached over and triple locked the door before bringing the metal barriers down behind the windows.

Van went about his business a bit more quickly now. Once he finished, he exited the back door and locked it behind him.

Radio DJ: "We're headin right into the spooky time of year huh folks? Well, check this one out, it's an oldie but a goodie and it'll help set the mood!"

[apricusnights]

Interlude.

Mayor Lowell: "Sometimes, when things are at their bleakest, I like to think of one of my favorite works. It goes something like this:"

“The dark is generous. Its first gift is concealment: our true faces lie in the dark beneath our skins, our true hearts remain shadowed deeper still. But the greatest concealment lies not in protecting our secret truths, but in hiding from the truths of others. The dark protects us from what we dare not know.

Its second gift is comforting illusion: the ease of gentle dreams in night’s embrace, the beauty that imagination brings to what would repel in the day’s harsh light. But the greatest of its comforts is the illusion that dark is temporary: that every night brings a new day. Because it’s the day that is temporary. Day is the illusion.

Its third gift is the light itself: as days are defined by the nights that divide them, as stars are defined by the infinite black through which they wheel, the dark embraces the light and brings it forth from the center of its own self. With each victory of the light, it is the dark that wins.

The dark is generous, and it is patient. It is the dark that seeds cruelty into justice, that drips contempt into compassion, that poisons love with grains of doubt. The dark can be patient, because the slightest drop of rain will cause those seeds to sprout.

The rain will come, and the seeds will sprout, for the dark is the soil in which they grow, and it is the clouds above them, and it waits behind the star that gives them light. The dark’s patience is infinite. Eventually, even stars burn out.

The dark is generous, and it is patient, and it always wins. It always wins because it is everywhere. It is in the wood that burns in your hearth, and in the kettle on the fire; it is under your chair and under your table and under the sheets on your bed. Walk in the midday sun, and the dark is with you, attached to the soles of your feet. The brightest light casts the darkest shadow.

The dark is generous, and it is patient, and it always wins – but in the heart of its strength lies its weakness: one lone candle is enough to hold it back. Love is more than a candle. Love can ignite the stars.”

Mayor Lowell begins to narrate.

"I've had the honor of being Mayor of Apricus for quite some time now. I've seen my fair share of both tragedy and triumph."

"People always like to say that things are darkest before the dawn. I believe this to be true but the darkness we're facing now seems all encompassing."

"The world is fractured. Some are trying their best to put out the fire while others just want to add fuel."

Crepusculum is shown selling weapons and defensive technology to every nation that has become paranoid about everyone else.

"Several forces are even beginning to influence Apricus itself."

Crepusculum's agents are shown throughout various organizations in Apricus. However, a new cult has also emerged. One with familiar faces at the head.

"Many nations are dealing with complications of their own."

A clash over leadership is brewing in Völsung. In Rèunion the thieves guild is gaining influence with the council. Someone from Fae is shown seeking an audience with Emperor Clarion.

"But not everything is a global conflict. Sometimes it's about coming clean about your past."

Puck and Sunil are shown standing on the deck of a ship sailing across the sea. Sunil glances at Puck and begins to say something.

"Other times it's about discovering the past you didn't know you had."

Kash is shown walking into an ice cream parlor and sitting next to Esmeray.

"Sometimes it's uncovering the truth that has been under everyone's nose all along."

Van approaches Andrasta to talk about Aurora.

Lye confronts her father about the White Rabbit Syndicate and what the Queen said.

"Some are seeking their place in the world."

Ruby is shown training with Oct while Yang watches nearby. Summer is observing from a distance.

At times Oct seems distracted by thoughts of the Betrayer and where he came from.

"Others may be looking to shape the world to fit their own desires."

Janus Windsor and Chimera are shown working on something in the spire at the center of Apricus.

The White Rabbit Syndicate is growing after establishing their global network.

"I will do my best to help guide everyone through the turmoil but the truth is I'm getting older. It's inevitable. The council are beginning to consider who their successors will be."

"I've had to think of that myself. I know that this current term will be my last. I think the next generation is proving itself capable of running things."

"Someone once said "I can't go on forever, and I don't really want to try." I believe I've found myself in that mindset as well. I still have some work to do but when it's all said and done, I believe I'll hand things over to you."

"I know you're worried about being accepted after all the things you've done but you've proven yourself to the city on more than one occasion. I believe in you, and they will too."

Mayor Lowell looks at the person sitting across from him and smiles.

[apricusnights]

Author's note.

I think I'm always going to be reluctant to let this setting go. A lot of work went into making it and trying to keep it going. Unfortunately, the truth is that nobody is here anymore.

Once the next five chapters are up it'll probably be all she wrote. If you've been enjoying them, I'm glad. If you had even just a little fun with this setting, I'm very happy.

Wish I could keep it running but when it's just me there isn't much a point.

Enjoy the next five chapters, thanks for being here.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twenty: Ruby.

Location: UnKnOwN.

The scythe user rushed toward Solstice, slashing at the masked woman and forcing her to either deflect the blows or dodge out of the way. Her strikes were insanely quick, almost impossible to see with the naked eye. Whatever the white rabbits had done to her had certainly enhanced her abilities as well as made her loyal to them.

Solstice though was no slouch, holding her own against her opponent but never quite finding the opening to strike back. Or was it perhaps that she didn't have the will to land a strike. In truth she had managed to analyze her opponent's patterns very quickly and could have perhaps done some damage, but she was holding back.

Solstice: "Ruby! Listen to me! You have to fight it! Whatever they've done to you, whatever they told you, this isn't you!"

White Rabbit (Queen): "How would you know what is and isn't her Summer? Until recently you didn't even know she existed. You were never around for her; don't pretend you actually care now. She's hardly even your daughter, our acquaintance found what you had given up and finished the job."

Solstice was caught off guard for a split second, which was all it took for Ruby to slash through the mask. It broke apart and fell to the floor, finally letting Ruby get a good look at her "mother". Summer was quick to dodge another strike, spinning to the side and reaching out to grab Ruby's arm. She pulled the girl toward her and when they were face to face Summer landed punch to the rabbit mask Ruby was wearing. Hardly strong enough to hurt the girl but powerful enough to break the mask, leaving them truly face to face.

White Rabbit (Biker): "What do we do? Stay and watch?"

White Rabbit (Queen): "Hardly, this entire place will be either flooded and collapsed in a matter of minutes. Time to go." Making her way into the elevator.

White Rabbit (Biker): "What about Sis?"

Betrayer: "She's unimportant."

White Rabbit (Queen): "If she survives, we'll find her again. If not, well she was useful, but we can make another one."

The other white rabbit, and the betrayer entered the elevator with the queen and the doors closed behind him. The elevator heading up and out of the facility.

Meanwhile Amelia was guiding VNLA, OLIV, and their rescuers through the facility as it began to collapse around them. They group had managed to find another set of elevators that would take them a little way up into the tunnel system, but they'd still have to trek through it.

Amelia: "My readings show that those aren't all going to the same place, it's some weird escape system. Think it's designed to let everyone scatter if they need to. Don't try to crowd into one elevator, there is a weight limit."

Ajax: "You callin me fat?"

Nava: "Not now! Get in!"

Ajax, Nava, and Ivory took the first elevator out. Lapis, Violet, and Jae took the next. After the first elevator came back down Amias, Onyx, and Catalina got in and rode it out. Finally, the second elevator returned. Lye, Van, and Cyrus took a look around just as a torrent of water rushed into the room. The elevator doors closed, and they were sent up.

Location: Tunnels.

Sure, enough the groups had been sent to different sections of the tunnel system. Luckily Amelia was there to guide everyone to the nearest exit. Which at this point was imperative due to the ground giving way at points as the facility far beneath them continued to collapse.

Van: "Alright we should be able to hit an exist if we keep heading this way."

Lye: "Did you hear that?"

Cyrus: "Next tunnel over...I think it might be our hosts."

Van: "Oh good, a chance to say goodbye.."

Lye: "Van.."

Van smirked and grabbed his bat as he snuck towards the corner to see if he could ambush the queen and her cohorts when they exited the other tunnel.

Unfortunately for Van this plan of attack wasn't exactly the brightest idea. An arm burst through the wall and grabbed Van, pulling him back into the other tunnel. Van was flung down the tunnel as the white rabbit biker snickered at him.

Biker: "Listen big guy, lemme deal with this one. I'm just itching to try out a few moves." Cracking his knuckles as Van stood up and brushed himself off.

Lye and Cyrus rushed around the corner only to come face to face with the Betrayer. Cyrus shoved Lye out of the way as the Betrayer took a swing at him. Cyrus managed to dodge and attempted to draw the Betrayer away from Lye and Van. Landing a few strikes and backing up to goad him down the tunnel.

Lye stood back up and noticed the Queen simply watching. Normally this wouldn't be the best idea but everyone else was pulling their weight, she had to do SOMETHING.

Of course, she remembered what happened to Yang and realized she had to avoid the queen's grasp at all costs. She rushed in and unleashed a flurry of kicks, trying to catch the queen by surprise but much to her annoyance the queen was able to avoid Lye with little to no effort.

Queen: "You really think you have any sort of chance little girl? The most useless member of the Marigold clan thinks she can get the job done. You're no closer than your father was, maybe you can ask him about his greatest failure should you survive."

Lye was unable to stop herself, her emotions finally boiling over as she exploded with rage. Her strikes became far less precise but far stronger. She even managed to force the queen back against the tunnel wall. Kicking at her again and forcing her to dodge as Lye actually kicked a small hole in the wall.

Queen: "Seems I pushed a button, how quaint. Unfortunately, though, I don't exactly have time to play with you."

The Queen grabbed Lye's leg during the next attack and slammed her other fist down into it, sending Lye to the ground. She'd tilt her head seeing Lye's hands sparking a little. Lye managed to reach out and grab the queen's leg, sending the biggest shock she could through the other woman's body.

The queen clenched her fists before shaking it off and leaning down to look at Lye.

Queen: "Faulty augmentations.." She grasped Lye's wrists and sent the same strange black energy through Lye's hands that she used on Yang's arm earlier. Lye tried to pull away but could only scream as her augmentations dissolved, leaving her hands shaking.

The queen released her grasp and brushed herself off as the Betrayer tossed Cyrus back down the tunnel. Cyrus crawled over to check on Lye as the armored man approached. The Betrayer however was stopped by the queen.

Queen: "Enough, the transport is waiting. Our network is up and running, we have connections to make."

Van at the time had been swinging for all he was worth but every time his bat struck his opponent the Biker simply laughed it off.

Biker: "Aurora is a hell of a thing, isn't it? Mine is pretty special, can harden in response to trauma, cool right?"

Van: "What the hell is Aurora?"

Biker: "Hmm, might wanna ask Ciar that one."

Van took another swing, but his bat was caught, and the Biker landed a strong punch to Van's gut, doubling him over. The Biker punched Van again and sent him to the ground. He glanced down and lifted his foot as if he was going to stomp on Van's head.

As Lye watched, time seemed to stand still momentarily. She swore she heard Tagetes speaking to her. Perhaps she was remembering her time with the Emperor during the Olympus incident.

Tagetes: "My gifts are only given to those who truly deserve them"

Time unfroze and Lye found herself standing somehow.

Lye: "Get the fuck away from my brother!" Lye rushed forward, her hands glowed for a moment before she struck the Biker and sent a huge current of electricity through his body which launched him backwards. All without the use of her augmentations.

Lye collapsed again, drained of energy.

The Queen walked by the three Marigolds and took note.

Queen: "Maybe there is something to the lot of you after all. Do give my regards to the rest of the clan."

The Queen, Biker, and Betrayer made their way out of the tunnel system to a waiting transport just as help arrived in the form of the other groups and PWSB backup. Medical personnel checked on the Marigolds as everyone regrouped.

Location: Lower Docks.

Ruby and Summer found themselves caught in a torrent of water that washed them through the sewer systems as the facility had collapsed around them. Ruby was quick to her feet, pointing her scythe down at Summer who had been coughing up water.

Summer: "Ruby...I'm sorry. If I had known about you, I would have tried my best to be there for you. I missed so much; I'll never be able to give you back that lost time."

Summer: "Whatever they did to you...fight it. You don't need to do it for me..but your sister needs you. Yang needs you...your father needs you."

Ruby blinked, images coming to her as the fog started to lift. Still, she couldn't bring herself to say anything to her so-called mother.

Summer: "Ruby...I."

Ruby: "I don't want to hear it." She folded her scythe up and stepped back.

Ruby glanced down at Summer's aShine as someone tried contacting her. The medical personnel mentioned Yang being stable but the possibility of complications. Hearing this was enough to snap Ruby out of it. Her memories flooding back at last.

Memories that didn't include the woman on the ground by her.

Ruby: "I can forgive you for not being there for us. You didn't know, and I can accept that. But you're not my mother, don't try to step back into my life."

Ruby: "But...maybe we can start over some day. When I'm ready."

Summer: "I'd like that...when you're ready."

Summer watched as Ruby turned and hurried off to go check on Yang. Finally managing to get to her feet. Her mission had been as much a success as it could have been but she knew that some day she'd have to repay Lilac for her help in locating Ruby..and that was something she wondered if she'd regret...

[apricusnights]

Chapter Nineteen: The Curtain Rises.

Location: UnKnOwN.

Violet: "Has anyone actually bothered to think about WHY we're here?" Sliding underneath one of the chimeras and unloading a few rounds into it before rolling away.

Lye: "We got kidnapped!" Standing back-to-back with Amias and kicking away one of the smaller chimeras.

Onyx: "I believe she's asking why we were kidnapped." Wrapping his wires around the legs of a chimera and tripping it up so Lapis and Jae can finish it off.

Nava: "Maybe they just felt like making us play these stupid games." Getting pulled out of the way of a charging chimera by Ajax but still managing to land a hit on it.

Cyrus: "If I had to take a guess, I'd assume they wanted something else from you. Was anything off when you woke up?" Glancing up at the White Rabbit Queen who was still just watching them.

Oct: "Let me just go and ask!" Activating his jetpack and flying up to where the queen was but immediately getting pushed back by some sort of forcefield.

Ajax: "What the fuck did you expect to happen!"

Oct: "Never hurts to try the direct approach!"

Onyx: "How much power can you focus at one time? I think I have a plan..."

Oct: "Just give me the word.."

White Rabbit (Queen): "Have everything been sent over? Good. So long as our dear friend got what he wanted, we get what we want."

Betrayer: "We need to leave. This location is likely to be further compromised."

White Rabbit (Biker): "Security systems just picked up someone else working their way through the complex."

White Rabbit (Queen): "Deal with whoever it is."

Just as she spoke, Onyx was flung through the air, grappling on to the balcony but instead of pulling himself up he swung back to the ground. Detaching the wires from his gauntlets and attaching them to Oct's armor.

Oct focused as much energy as he could from the armor through the wires and up to the balcony which began to overload the control panel keeping the forcefield up.

After a moment the forcefield faded away but the amount of energy it took would take Oct out of commission temporarily.

Onyx barely had a moment to gloat as he saw Yang sprint by and launch herself off of Oct's shoulders, flying up to the balcony. Her eyes fixed firmly on the scythe wielding white rabbit.

Onyx: "WAIT!"

Yang had no intention of listening to him though before she knew it, she felt the queen's hand grasping her right arm, she'd been caught right out of the air. The queen tilted her head as Yang started to feel her arm burning.

The queen tossed her back down to the ground as Yang clutched her right arm. A strange black energy was eating away at it.

The scythe user seemed to wince for a moment watching the blonde get thrown to the ground.

Cyrus: "We need to get her out of here! Amelia, can you hear me? Get an evac vehicle over to the opening we made, stat!"

Van: "Ya know, I have my own questions about why you're here, but we can save that till when we aren't being swarmed by chimeras!"

Oct: "I have enough in the tank to get her out, but I can't carry anyone else back up." Lifting up Yang and looking up to the large opening in the ceiling. He activated his jetpack, using the last bit of energy he had to fly them both up and out, hoping Amelia had a vehicle on the way.

White Rabbit (Biker): "They've almost managed to fight off all of our chimeras. It's going to be a pain to restock.."

White Rabbit (Queen): "It doesn't matter. Our deal has been completed." Motioning to something showing on her aShine.

"We have access to everything now. Time to get ready for the worldwide premiere."

White Rabbit (Biker): "What about this place?"

Betrayer: "It's useless now that it's been discovered. Pull everyone out and level it."

White Rabbit (Queen): "I believe you're correct. On to greener pastures as it were."

Lapis: "This is ridiculous, there's no end to these things."

Jae: "Maybe we should consider an escape tactic. Seems our hosts up there are doing just that."

Amias: "You know, I'm not really a fighter."

Onyx: "Your energy armor ability would suggest otherwise. You seem to be handling yourself just fine."

Amias: "Not the only thing I could handle just fine."

Lye: "Forget it, I already tried. He's straight."

Amias: "So is a.."

Onyx: "Spaghetti noodle, yes I'm aware. The answer is no."

Despite most of the group being exhausted from the earlier fight, the sadistic games, and the seemingly endless waves of chimeras they were standing there ground enough to begin turning the tide. The chimera waves were beginning to lessen, though the sudden notice of evacuation blaring over loudspeakers was becoming a major concern.

Van: "How the hell are we gonna get out of here?"

Ivory: "We could try climbing out the way Ajax and the others climbed down."

Ajax: "Too risky with all the chimeras, plus I'm not sure time is really on our side..."

Jae: "Amelia, can you find us a way out?"

Amelia via aShine: "Already ahead of you. I'm partially in the system. The balcony above you, try and get up to it and head down the hallway. I can lead you out into the tunnel system. Avoid the sewer exits. Someone is blocking off parts and redirecting the water. I think they are going to flood the complex."

Onyx launches himself up to the balcony with his wires and hooks them around a pillar before detaching them from his gauntlet and lowering them down to the ground for the others to climb up. One by one the group makes their way up the wires, the stronger fighters staying back to fend off the chimeras even as water begins to rush into the arena.

Van is the last to make the climb as Ivory and Violet shoot the chimeras from the balcony and give him cover. As he's almost at the top a chimera sprays its acid through the air. Van manages to slide down to avoid it, but the acid hit the wire he's climbing and begins to dissolve it.

The wire snaps but Lye suddenly grabs Van's arm as she's held over the side of the balcony by Cyrus. Cyrus pulls them both up and the three catch their breath.

The group begins to follow Amelia's directions as the complex is flooded with water rushing in from the sewer system. Further ahead the white rabbit queen, the betrayer, and the elite guard have made their way to a control room.

The queen sets the equipment to overload as an elevator opens behind them. They head for it as voice calls out. The masked woman who had been roaming the complex makes her way into the room.

Solstice: "Ruby!"

The scythe wielding white rabbit turns and tilts her head.

White Rabbit (Queen): "Late to the party again. Seems to be your modus operandi, Summer. Kill her."

White Rabbit (Scythe): Nods and unfolds her scythe.

Solstice glares at the queen and reluctantly readies herself for the fight.

To be concluded.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Eighteen: Down The Rabbit Hole.

Location: UnKnOwN.

Lye: "Ugh my head." She rubbed the back of her head before blinking and looking around. It seemed to be something of a dressing area. A small package was sitting on a chair with her name written on it. She also came to the realization that all of her equipment was gone including her weapons.

Onyx: "Don't bother trying to escape, I've examined everything in here and we're trapped. At least until we follow instructions."

Lye: "Instructions?"

Onyx: "There are packages with our names on them. I already looked in mine. Apparently they want some sort of a show." Motioning to the fact he was wearing a suit and tie.

Lye: "You have got to be joking.." She sighed and opened the package with her name on it, pulling out a ballgown and all sorts of accessories.

Onyx had already turned around to allow Lye to dress.

Lye: "You could have watched if you wanted." Smirking before starting to get herself dressed.

Onyx: "I'd much rather concentrate on what these rabbit miscreants want from us."

Lye finally finished dressing and spun around.

Lye: "Not bad. If the circumstances were different, I could probably dig this."

Lye and Onyx both turned as the door swung open. When they stepped out, they found themselves in a long corridor with only one exit at the far end.

They made their way out into what looked to be a large ballroom of sorts. High above them were several rows of chairs. Various people in rabbit masks were looking down at the two of them.

Speaker: "Please give a warm welcome to our contestants! I hope they are ready to dance their hearts out because anything less than perfection gets you eliminated from the show!"

Onyx: "That's extremely ominous."

Lye: "Just follow my lead.."

Lapis and Nava found themselves in an equally unsettling situation. Nava had awakened later than Lapis who had already ransacked the room they were in trying to find a way out.

Lapis: "I'm going to go out on a limb here and say this is because of you."

Nava: "I have no idea what you're talking about..."

Lapis: "You're the Lavender heiress, kidnapping you just seems like an obvious ransom plot."

Nava: "If that's the case, why did they take the rest of you? Also, I hate to tell you this, but I was removed from the company. Not to mention my parents are currently missing at sea so I'm pretty certain that I'm not much of an heiress anymore."

The door to the room opened suddenly to reveal another long corridor. Lapis and Nava made their way down to the end where another door slid open and led out into something resembling a labyrinth made of mirrors.

Speaker: "Time to find your way to the exit and win a prize. You'll find clues along the way but take too long and meet your demise!"

Lapis: "We better get moving.."

Somewhere in another area of the complex Van was finally waking up. He had to rub his eyes thinking he was seeing something ridiculous as he glanced over and saw Ivory dressed in something resembling a school girl's uniform.

Ivory: "Before you say a fucking word, you have something to put on as well and it's just as stupid. All our weapons are gone, our equipment is missing, and we're stuck here until we co-cooperate."

Van: "I was about to say that's kinda hot but.." Looking down at a school uniform left for him as well. "Guess we gotta play the stupid game.." Of course, not caring that Ivory was watching as he changed into the uniform.

The moment he did the door opened. The corridor took them down to a large open area resembling a playground. In front of them were two hopscotch boards that stretched all he way to the end of the room.

Van glanced up to see a number of rabbit masked people looking down at them.

Speaker: "Some of the tiles are safe, some may cause something unfortunate to happen to your partner. When the whistle blows You may move. When it blows again you must freeze no matter what. Can both of you make it to the end? We'll see!"

Van: "Left side or right side?" Finally in one last room Violet had woken up and looked over at Jae who was examining the room. Unknown to them the room they were in was much different than the ones the others had found themselves in. There was no visible way out.

Violet: "Where..are we?"

Speaker: "I'm not one for audiences or dress up games so I'll get to the point. Ever play an escape room? Well, you're in one now. Work together and find your way out. You're on a timer though and if it reaches zero, I'll have to find some new players. Have fun!"

Jae: "This feels like the chimera cases all over again..."

Location: Smokey Gardens.

Amelia: "This is the last known location of Jae's emergency beacon. No sign of his aShine though and it's no longer working."

Ajax: "Vehicle tracks, relatively fresh. Look around, there was a battle here recently."

Bonnie: "I think the idiots fought each other."

Amias: "So what do you think happened?"

Lilac: "I'll tell you what happened. My brother and his makeshift team decided to chase down Marigold. The two teams got into a skirmish, someone interrupted it and kidnapped them all for reasons I can't quite figure out."

Amias: "Lilac Cheshire? Never thought I'd see you out here."

Lilac: "I was monitoring signals and picked up on Jae's emergency beacon. I tracked my brother's aShine out here. If our father finds out Onyx is missing, I'm unsure of what the consequences will be."

Ajax: "Funny, didn't think the old man gave a shit about his son."

Lilac: "It's likely more about the family name being tarnished. That being said, I believe I have an idea of how to find them. Rather, my acquaintance gave me an idea."

Bonnie: "Your acquaintance?"

Lilac: "You'll meet them soon enough, please follow me."

Location: Lower Docks.

Cyrus: "I trust this source of yours is worthwhile? I had to call in a favor just to get this kind of hardware."

Oct: "I trust them with my life."

Cyrus: "I suppose that'll have to be enough. I do have to ask, why are there civilians here?"

Catalina: "Listen chuckles, my prospective boyfriend got kidnapped and I'm not standing for it. Plus, I've got gear the military doesn't."

Yang: "I'm here because this is personal."

Oct: "I'll vouch for them. Let's just get this stuff set up and get to a safe distance."

Cyrus: "Hopefully your source was right about the location. Otherwise, we're about to do a lot of unnecessary damage."

Yang: "Less talking more exploding."

Catalina: "I like her."

Location: UnKnOwN.

Onyx felt himself pulled back after tripping and setting off one of the trap tiles. A jet a flame shooting up. Lye and Onyx had figured out that the tiles on the ballroom floor were a mix of safe and trapped. They had to perform a dance to whatever music was playing as well as figure out which tiles were safe.

Lye: "You're not bad at this."

Onyx: "My mother insisted we learned ballroom dancing to fit in at her formal gatherings."

Lye: "Guess you can credit her with saving your hide huh?"

Before Onyx could reply he noticed one of the tiles stopped glowing and suddenly spun Lye away from it as it let out a surge of electricity. Proceeding with the dance and dipping Lye much to the other's enjoyment.

Lye: "You're a good dance partner, we should go out some time."

Onyx: "Aren't you dating the theater prodigy?"

Lye: "We're always open to one more."

Onyx: "You realize I'm straight, right?"

Lye: "So are spaghetti noodles until you get them wet."

Onyx: "Let's just get out of here.."

As they danced along to the ever-changing music the crowd began to toss down roses at them. Unfortunately, the roses struck many of the trap tiles setting off all manner of hazards. Lye winced as she barely dodged a blade that shot out from the wall, it did graze her arm but thankfully they were spinning out of the way at the time.

Onyx: "Our score is dropping...look at the door."

The door closest to them was beginning to close as the tiles started to drop revealing a large spike trap under the room. Both decided to make a run for it, Onyx tossing Lye forward. A fire jet burning part of her dress and part of Onyx's suit, but she managed to slide under the door. She reached out as Onyx dove for it, pulling him through the opening just before the door closed.

Lye: "I liked this dress.."

Onyx: "Look..."

Onyx and Lye glanced around, realizing they were inside what looked to be a large empty arena.

Nava: "No matter how far we get we wind up back at the start."

Lapis: "Because the rooms are shifting. Some of them rotate and we get turned around, so we just end up going in circles over and over again."

Nava: "So how do we get out of here?"

Lapis: "I've been counting down how long it takes before I think the rooms shift. It's a pattern, and it tends to happen right around the times we get split up. Just follow me."

Lapis and Nava continued through the maze but just as both would typically get split up by a moving mirror, Lapis slipped through the small opening to Nava's side. He held still and closed his eyes. It was impossible to see the changes, but you could feel the machinery moving.

Lapis: "We have to be quiet. Ignore any music you hear and focus on the walls and the floor."

Nava: "Didn't the voice say there were clues?"

Lapis: "I found one earlier. The clues are meant to throw us off, it's a distraction tactic. They likely put more in every time the rooms change so we're in here forever."

Nava nods and closes her eyes trying to focus. She pointed a direction just as she felt a slight vibration in the floor. Both headed a direction they typically wouldn't and eventually reached a new part of the maze.

Nava: "I don't get it..that looks like the start over there. Did we mess up again?"

Lapis walked over to one of the mirrors and tapped it before standing back. He pulled his shirt off and wrapped it around his fist before slamming it against the mirror.

Lapis: "It's a trick, that's not the entrance but it will loop us back if we go in. This mirror isn't reflecting things the way it should."

Slamming his fist into it over and over again until it cracked and revealed a door behind it. Lapis pulled the broken glass aside an opened the door, letting Nava through before following.

Nava and Lapis eventually would wind up in the same empty arena as Onyx and Lye.

Van moved forward on the hopscotch board after the whistle blew, just managing to avoid a small explosion as Ivory landed on a square on her side. The whistle blew again signaling both to stop. Van having to stand on one leg.

Van: "Hanging in there?"

Ivory: "Other than the electric shocks, attempted laser shot, and cramps in both legs? Yeah doing fine."

The whistle blew and both continued on, barely avoiding more of the hazards. Van glanced over as the whistle blew. He was forced to stop on a square that triggered the square Ivory was on to continuously shock her much to the amusement of the crowd. Van considered moving but Ivory shook her head no.

Finally, they were able to go forward though Ivory was clearly worse for wear. They approached the final few squares as the whistle blew. Both standing on one leg. Ivory's square caused a blade to swing down, Van just barely managed to duck while remaining standing though some of his hair fell to the ground.

Van: "I just styled it the way I like! I swear I'm gonna make you freaks sorry."

The whistle blew and Van hurried forward. Just as he reached the end, he looked back at Ivory clutching her leg. The blade had swung down and gotten a hit on her. Van leaped off of the board causing the door to open before rushing back and picking up Ivory. He was able to rush off of her board right as another whistle blew which was promptly ignored as he ran through the door.

Reaching the arena with the others was a relief. Van removed his shirt and used it to wrap up Ivory's leg before making sure his sister and the others were alright.

The group seemed a bit shocked as they looked over and saw an elevator rise up and open. Jae and Violet exited looking no worse for wear.

Onyx: "And you two were where?"

Jae: "Trapped in some ridiculous escape room."

Violet: "Apparently they didn't realize I've had plenty of experience finding clues on how to get in and out of a room plenty of times. Dad let me tag along for some Templar training now and again. Puzzle solving to save your life is on the schedule every time."

Jae: "Amelia likes escape rooms, I've dealt with my share of them. What happened to all of you?"

As the groups explained what had happened, they noticed a spotlight shining to a balcony above them.

The White Rabbit Queen sat on a throne clapping her hands. Several members of her elite guard stood by her. The Betrayer standing behind her as well.

White Rabbit (Queen): "You've all put on a marvelous show. I think perhaps it's time to reward you."

A platform in the middle of the arena rose up. A crate containing everyone's weapons was on it.

White Rabbit (Queen): "Help yourself to your weapons. If you can get to them in time."

The teams backed up against each other as several doors opened around the arena. Each one releasing multiple snarling chimeras.

As the beasts approached, a huge explosion rocked the arena. Part of the ceiling falling down. A moment after the dust cleared Oct was seen as he put down Catalina, Cyrus, and Yang.

One of the elite guards locked eyes with Yang. The Betrayer spotting Oct and moving forward before being stopped by the Queen.

Before she could speak several ropes were dropped down from the hole made by Oct's team. This time it was Bonnie, Ajax, and Amias who descended to aid their allies.

Amelia speaking through Ajax's aShine: "I'm reading a large force heading your way. You're going to have a lot of company real soon. I'll see if I can slow them down."

White Rabbit (Queen): "Typically I don't appreciate uninvited guests but you're in luck. The next act is starting soon, and we can always use some disposable extras.."

The chimeras began to circle as everyone readied themselves. Meanwhile a masked woman wearing a cloak was making her way through the complex...

To be continued.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Seventeen: VNLA Vs. OLIV.

Location: Upper Docks.

Van: "I swear to you it wasn't me!"

Larsen: "I believe you."

Van: "You do?"

Larsen: "You may be a pain in my ass but you're not the kind of person you used to be. Besides, didn't you say you dated that bitch that was on the news?"

Lye: "Date is a strong word...more like she manipulated him and he followed her around like a puppy."

Van: "Annoyingly accurate. Why are you even here?"

Lye: "Saw the report. First instinct was to find you and punch you. Second instinct was that Amorette is a lying bitch and she's obviously trying to frame you."

Both Lye and Van are on guard as a PWSB vehicle pulls up but it's only Jae who steps out of it.

Jae: "Captain." Nodding to Larsen. "Commander Fisher got your message, she's going to get you as much information as possible. I'm afraid we can only buy so much time though."

Viridian makes his way down the dock followed by Nerys and Nava.

Nava: "Whatever she said isn't true. Except the part about me being removed from the company...bitch."

Nerys: "Of course it wasn't true, Van wouldn't do that kind of stuff again!"

Nava: "Again?"

Lye: "We'll go over this later, right now we gotta figure out how to handle the situation."

Viridian: "Let me make a call. I have a plan; it's just going to take a lot of cooperation."

Van: "Team VNLA rides again!"

Nava: "No.."

Van: "Oh come on!"

Location: Hubertus Memorial Lodge, Evergreen Basin.

Violet: "That's a pretty big bounty. Seems a little weird considering we don't even have clear visual of anyone."

Ivory: "I guess everyone is just taking her word for it. She's on the Bundles of Lavender board."

Lapis: "I don't trust her..."

Onyx: "Nor do I however I have to ask the question...why are we all here?"

Violet: "Because I still have your numbers in my aShine and we're all technically bounty hunters. Even if it's first level ones."

Ivory: "I don't mind but Dad is having a barbeque with Mr. Bell tonight, and he won't be happy if I'm not back for it."

Onyx: "Get to the point, what do you want?"

Violet: "I uh, think we should go after Van. Not to ya know bring him in but to talk to him."

Lapis: "You want to get to him before anyone else does, correct?"

Violet: "Well yeah."

Onyx: "Why should we believe he isn't responsible? You're aware of his past are you not?"

Lapis: "Everyone is capable of change."

Ivory: "Uh hate to break up the conversation but everyone else is heading out. We should go."

Onyx: "I want no part of this."

Violet: "Oh come on, we can't have OLIV without the O."

Onyx: "OLIV?"

Lapis: "Cheshire, what else are you going to do? Argue with your father? Watch the bank head eat an entire family size bag of cheese puffs?"

Onyx: "Never again."

Ivory: "Just this once Onyx, help us out and we won't bother you anymore."

Onyx: "Fine, this is the last time."

Violet: "Team OLIV rides again!"

Onyx: "No.."

Violet: "Oh come on!"

Location: Guardian District.

Fisher: "Something about this doesn't feel right."

Amelia: "Bundles of Lavender is being rather protective over their so-called security footage. I've requested it several times and only ever get sent small sections of it or I'm turned away with some legal threats about the military seizing their property or something."

Roland: "I take it this is why you haven't really dispatched anyone to track this guy down?"

Fisher: "I'm afraid I don't know what you're talking about. We're rather busy right now and I'm dispatching our forces as needed based on priority. It just happens this particular situation is low priority."

Kelly: "Amelia, can you come with me? I need your help with a case."

Amelia: "Of course."

Fisher: "Take your time, we've got things under control."

Location: Smokey Gardens.

Nava: "I must admit I'm impressed we managed to get all the way out here without incident. Considering how many people in the city are looking for Van."

Lye: "Well that's easy. Van isn't here, just my twin sister."

Van is currently dressed up in Lye's clothes and wearing a pair of sunglasses.

Van: "I'd say I look ridiculous but look at me, I'm as hot as ever. The tights and the heels make my legs look fantastic."

Jae: "Did you have to flirt with me during the train ride out here?"

Van: "Have to keep up appearances."

Nava: "You don't look as great as you claim. The lipstick you picked is atrocious."

Jae: "We're in the clear, would you please go change."

Van: "Already trying to get me out of my clothes?"

Jae: "I swear if you keep this up I WILL turn you in myself."

Van: "Fine fine, just give me a few minutes."

Van grabs his duffle bag and steps behind a tree so he can change clothes.

Meanwhile, a good distance away.

Ivory is looking through the scope of her rifle.

Ivory: "I've got positive ID on the target."

Violet: "Good job but I have to wonder, how did you know they would be out here."

Lapis: "I work for the Union remember? You think we're not aware of who enters our main district? Especially people known to associate with a wanted criminal."

Violet: "Alleged criminal."

Onyx: "Nevertheless now that Lapis' sources have made our job slightly easier, perhaps you can have that conversation before anyone else arrives."

Ivory: "You know I could probably drop them from here."

Onyx: "Reynard, step away from the rifle."

Ivory: "Fine but if I'm late to the barbeque later you're taking the blame."

Lapis: "Where's Violet?"

Ivory: "Heading directly toward the target.."

Onyx: "Creator help me. Let's go before she does something stupid."

Van steps back out wearing his normal clothes.

Van: "Much better but I will miss the freedom of that skirt."

Lye: "Were you..wearing anything under that?"

Nava: "You need to burn that skirt."

Jae: "Did everyone bring your weapons?"

Van: "Obviously."

Jae: "Good because I think someone is making their way over here."

Van: "Hey Nava, where did you get the staff?" Nava: "None of your business." Van: "Your boyfriend give it to you?" Nava: "Fiancé." Lye puts her hand over Van's mouth before he can say anything else. Jae: "We don't have time for this."

Jae turns and raises his weapon.

Jae: "Halt! Identify yourself!"

Violet: "Whoa whoa wait! It's Violet Goodfellow, I come in peace."

Lye: "Ok but what about the bimbo behind you pointing a rifle at us?"

Ivory: "Bimbo?!"

Violet: "Ivory! Lower your weapon!"

Van: "And I thought Nava had some big ones."

Nava glances down at her chest and attempts to resist the sudden urge to hit Van.

Lye: "Van...now is not the time."

Van: "You're the one who called her a bimbo. She's not even blonde!"

Violet: "Hey!"

Ivory: "Can you stop talking before I put a bullet through you and bring in whatever is left of your corpse?"

Lye: "Why don't you try your luck tits for brains!"

Lapis: "Can you all just shut up for a minute!"

Onyx: "We just want to talk, rather Violet wants to talk. I was dragged into this nonsense."

Nava: "I know the feeling."

Lye: "Wow, he's kinda cute."

Jae: "Aren't you dating the guy from the theater?"

Lye: "Listen we're open to.."

Violet: "Ok listen, I have a feeling you didn't do what they say you did but everyone else at the lodge doesn't really care."

Van: "I didn't. The bitch you saw on tv is an ex..something of mine and she's throwing me under a bus."

Violet: "Oh my god, are you serious? This is one of THOSE situations. Ok ok we just need to get some proof of.."

Before Violet can finish talking a shot is fired. Jae barely manages to dodge out of the way. The shot is powerful enough to split a tree behind him in half.

Violet: "Ivory!"

Ivory: "I didn't!"

Lye: "So much for talking huh bitch!" Lye leaps into the air and kicks Ivory making her fall backwards into Onyx.

The two groups raise their weapons and back up. Violet and Nava are a bit unsure of themselves as they are the least experienced.

Jae and Lapis are the first to clash against each other. Ony squares off with Lye, Ivory faces Van, and Nava goes against Violet.

Jae: "You realize you're currently trying to assault a PWSB officer, right?"

Lapis: "A PWSB officer who is in the process of aiding a wanted criminal."

Lapis and Jae seem evenly matched, much like their clashes on the Hecaball field both find themselves unable to get past the other's defensive skills.

Onyx leaps back and flings out the wires from his gauntlets in hopes of tripping up Lye. Lye however spins around, ducking and leaping over the attempts. Wires whipping through the air as she effortlessly avoids them in a strange sort of dance. She gets close enough to kick Onyx, but he uses his wires to grapple on to a tree branch and pull himself away momentarily.

Lye: "What's the matter cutie, gettin tired already? Don't give up now, you're not a bad dance partner."

Onyx seems a bit flustered for a moment but shakes it off.

Violet tries desperately to create distance from Nava, but the other woman seems shockingly fast and keeps up with her relatively easily. Nava however isn't well trained, and her strikes are still a bit sloppy which leaves Violet plenty of opportunities to avoid them. Violet finally manages to use a smoke grenade to create distance, but the smoke also makes it impossible to aim at her intended target, letting Nava slip away behind cover.

Ivory realizes she can't get the distance she typically enjoys so she switches her rifle to its axe form and takes a swing at Van. Ivory's weapon is heavy and though the swings are powerful they are slow. Something Van takes advantage of, dodging out of the way and landing a few hits against Ivory. She winces as the wind is knocked out of her. Van moves in close but Ivory is able to slam her axe into the ground which sends debris flying toward Van. He shields his face for a moment which allows Ivory to land a strong punch to his stomach sending him stumbling back.

The clashes continue until both teams fall back at the same time to regroup.

Van: "Listen up, we need to switch things up a little. They are probably thinking the same thing. Lye, you go for Lapis. I think you can do better against that defense. Jae, you take Ivory. Rush her, keep her trapped in close combat and keep the pressure up. Nava, stick with Violet. You're both inexperienced here and it's your best bet. She's got pistols, I don't think she's good close up so try and keep to that. I'll go for Onyx. Remember, we're not trying to seriously hurt anyone here but we gotta take them out before anyone else shows up and this gets worse."

Onyx: "Ok everyone come closer. I've been watching how they fight and believe I have a strategy. Fighting them one on one is going to get us nowhere fast. The first thing we need to do is start switching opponents as quickly as possible. If we keep rotating it will catch them off guard. Secondly, we need to work together. They aren't used to each other yet. We may not be either, but I believe we have a better understanding of each other's abilities. Except the siblings of course. So, we need to pull off a few team attacks, listen up..."

Location: Bundles of Lavender Corporate Headquarters.

Kelly leans up against the wall as one of the security guards talks to her.

Kelly: "I know I know Frank but I have to ask again. We need to look through that footage. I know it's not your call but just see if you can do me a solid alright? At least bring it up with the bigwigs."

She waits until the security guard leaves the room before slipping a small device under one of the computer consoles.

Kelly: "No go? You know Commander Fisher is not gonna take no for an answer. I'll probably have to keep coming back here. Next time we'll get lunch or something. Yeah see ya."

She leaves the building and makes her way to a vehicle outside where Amelia was sitting with a laptop.

Kelly: "You good?"

Amelia: "Remote hacking into Bundles of Lavender wasn't something I expected to be doing today but yes, I'm good."

Kelly: "They won't find the device?"

Amelia: "It's designed to become useless after a few minutes. Even if they find it, they won't know what it did. Now let me sort through these files."

"I don't for the life of me know why they don't want us to see all of the footage. I know they claim they cleaned it up as best they could, but I could at least give it a shot."

"That's weird, seems they were in contact with the Lavender family's yacht relatively recently despite claiming they don't know where it is. We'll have to get this to Larsen, see if he can recognize anything they say about a location at the time."

"Here we go, security. Let me see if I can find footage from the supposed riots. Yeah ok, it is a little blurry but nothing I can't fix. Just give me a minute or two."

Kelly: "Hurry up, I need to drive in a minute. Pretty sure they are starting to suspect something." Starting up the vehicle.

Amelia: "Shit, the device is running out of power. I just need to...HA got it...wait that's not.."

Kelly: "Just send whatever you have to Fisher, we gotta go." She smiles at the guards before pulling out of the parking lot.

Location: Smokey Gardens.

The teams are once again in the midst of combat. Van's strategy seems to be working as VNLA gets the upper hand against their opponents save for Nava and Violet who both seem evenly matched. This doesn't last long as Onyx gives a signal and OLIV suddenly pulls away and switches opponents. Van tries his best to adjust, shouting out instructions to anyone who got caught off guard.

Onyx once again signals for a switch, VNLA struggles against the new tactic, but Van notices Onyx's tell. Right before the next switch happens Van instead signals a switch of their own, VNLA once again getting the better of OLIV. Onyx realizes this portion of the plan no longer works but tries to keep his team paired in favorable matchups.

Onyx pulls his team back for a moment before they all suddenly rush forward. Ivory providing cover fire while Violet tosses out a flashbang that forces VNLA to group together. Onyx uses his wires on the blinded VNLA and manages to wind them through the legs of the opposing team which lets Lapis rush forward and bulldoze through VNLA making them trip over the wires and fall to the ground.

Lye: "Ohhhh gonna tie me up now? Kinky.." Winking at Onyx.

Onyx stops and raises an eyebrow which gives just enough of an opening.

As the rest of OLIV approach VNLA Jae stabs his sword into the ground while it's touching several of Onyx's wires. Lye reaches over and sends a current of electricity through the sword and the wires shocking Onyx and blowing him backwards. Ivory and Violet are struck down when Van leaps up and strikes them directly in their weak points rendering them unable to move temporarily, giving Jae and Lye enough time to send them both down to the ground. Van seems slightly confused about how he was able to do such a maneuver.

Lapis is the only one left standing as he's now facing all four members of VNLA. Lapis' defense proves to live up to the hype as he's able to at least for a time fend off the attacks of four opponents. It does however quickly deplete his energy. He's finally disarmed by Nava who manages to use her staff in a way that catches Lapis' weapon and fling it away from him.

By this point Onyx, Violet, and Ivory are slowly making their way to their feet. The exhaustion beginning to set in on both sides. Ivory covers Lapis as he retrieves his weapon but he's barely able to hold it.

Van: "You wanna keep going? I could do this all day.."

Onyx: "No you can't."

Van: "Can so!"

Onyx: "No you most certainly cannot!"

Onyx and Van stare at each other as an alert is suddenly broadcast over the emergency network.

Fisher: "Attention any and all bounty hunters, and local law enforcement. Van Marigold is not responsible for any of the wrongdoing he has been accused of. We have obtained security footage and have cleaned it up. The video you are currently seeing clearly shows that the perpetrator was NOT Mr. Marigold. His bounty is officially cancelled."

Location: Bundles of Lavender Corporate Headquarters.

Amorette: "Damn it, how did that wench get ahold of the footage. Ah well, doesn't matter. They can't pin the blame on us for anything at this point. I'll just issue an official apology. Someone get the camera crew ready, and I need my makeup artist NOW!"

Location: Smokey Gardens.

Violet: "I KNEW IT!"

Van: "Well...this is incredibly awkward, isn't it?"

Another shot is heard. Everyone turns to Ivory but she's looking at the ground between the two teams. A container of sorts is sitting in a small crater. Before anyone can react, the container bursts open releasing some sort of gas. One by one OLIV and VNLA are rendered unconscious. Before he falls Jae manages to tap the PWSB tracker button on his aShine, sending out an alert.

Several individuals in rabbit masks emerge from the woods.

White Rabbit (Biker): "Huh, was kind thinking they'd take each other out but whatever. This could be fun too."

White Rabbit (Scythe): Tilting her head and shifting her rifle back to its scythe form.

White Rabbit (Biker): "Ok, you know what the Queen wants. Load em up and get em out of here before anyone shows up. Let's go sis."

White Rabbit (Scythe): Nods her head and watches VNLA and OLIV get loaded into a vehicle before heading off.

To be continued.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Sixteen: Framed.

Location: Apricus City.

Lydia Reliford: "Attention everyone, this is an emergency broadcast. The city council are currently being assaulted by what appears to be the Consecration's Templar Order. Several establishments across the city are reportedly under attack as well."

"It seems the chaos being caused by the Templar coup attempt has provided the city's criminals a distraction. Law enforcement is struggling to handle the workload. The PWSB is spreading it's forces out to attempt to handle the situation. We ask that you please stay indoors during this time. If you are currently out, find a safe place to take shelter."

"We have confirmation that the Bounty Hunters have also mobilized to assist law enforcement and the PWSB. Again, please stay inside. Avoid heavily trafficked areas. We will be here bringing you any and all updates that..."

Static

"ReVeL In WhAt YoU ArE."

Location: Cathedral Of the Sun, Delta Town.

Merek: "This is ridiculous, I know your order is well trained, but these ones seem to take the cake. I can barely keep them down!"

Lucianna: "This isn't MY order; this is Julius's doing. I have no idea what he's done to them, but I am inclined to agree something is very wrong. Nevertheless, do not kill them. they are not themselves."

Ajax: "Speaking of Julius, where is that fucking weasel?"

Merek: "I imagined he'd be here."

Lucianna: "He's too smart to be in the obvious place. It is however important to regain control of the cathedral and the district."

Merek: "Hope that little vacation did you good because we're about to have more company..."

Another group of enhanced Templars close in on them as the fighting continues.

Location: Upper Docks.

Larsen: "I can handle these morons, no matter how durable they are! Van, Viridian, go help Kawakami. We need to secure the district."

Nerys: "What about me?"

Larsen: "If I told you to go with them, you'd just refuse and want to stay by me anyway so I'm skipping the bullshit. Just fight."

Nerys: "I'm gonna be late to my bartending shift.."

Van, and Viridian manage to push through the mob and make their way further into the district by are separated when both are attacked.

Location: Aurora Vale.

Andrasta: "You're getting slow old man."

Ciar: "I can handle these pathetic imitations!"

Stephanie: "And you're having too much fun!"

Esmeray: "I haven't had exercise like this in ages!"

Jacqueline: "Just don't kill them..if you can help it."

Andrasta: "One question, how did they get ahold of.."

Ciar: "We already knew there were traitors in our midst. Someone stole the research for the project and Julius was likely the high bidder.."

Andrasta: " I wonder if he really was.."

Location: Capitol Square.

Lowell: "And you're sure this is going to work?"

Shin: "If it doesn't, the council will resort to lethal matters and the lives of innocent Templars will be lost due to Julius."

Lowell: "I admit when you prompted me to deactivate my security system, I was a little baffled however I do not wish any harm to come to these people. I just wonder, can you undo the programming?"

Solomon: "Julius is likely using a control signal. He hasn't had the time to brainwash every member of the order on an individual basis. If we shut down the signal, we stop the rampage. Then perhaps we can see what he's done to several members that has seemingly increased their strength and durability."

Lowell: "Fair enough. I'm willing to trust you on this but you don't have much time. Darcie reported that her district is safe, but I doubt I can convince her to spare the intruders for long. The other council members will do what they must if pushed."

Shin: "Getting word from Lucianna. She and Merek have secured the cathedral but are about to be under siege from a larger force headed their way."

Lowell: "I can get you there quickly, head down to the lobby and take my private elevator. It'll send you down to my railway station. Been working on a new train. You're gonna love it!"

Shin: "Brother Solomon, stay here with the Mayor. We need you to coordinate things. If we manage to shut the signal down, pay the audio recording I sent you."

Solomon nods as Shin, May, and Castor head down to the Mayor's private subway station.

Location: Smokey Gardens.

Cordelia: "We come by to check just to find you attacked by these morons again?"

Myte: "Fine by me, needed the practice! But what the hell is the church feeding these guys, it feels like kicking a brick wall!"

Styles: "Just shut up and fight! You doin alright kid?"

Lazuli: "I don't wanna hurt any of them. I don't even have control over this ability they say I have! I don't know.."

Styles finds himself surrounded and even with his tech he's knocked aside. Cordelia and Myte are stopped by several Templars as a small group approaches Lazuli.

Lazuli looks around and clenches her fists.

Lazuli: "You want this stupid power so badly...YOU CAN HAVE IT!"

Lazuli screams as her power erupts once again. Several ghostly figures appear around her and rush towards the shocked Templars.

Myte: "The fuck was that..."

Location: Bundles of Lavender Corporate Headquarters.

Board Member: "We're getting reports that several low life individuals have assaulted some of our primary warehouses and retailers.."

Amorette glances at security footage and smirks.

Location: Cathedral of The Sun, Delta Town.

Merek and Lucianna stand ready for the next group of Templars as the doors burst open.

Shin: "Wait! It's just us!"

Lucianna: "I am pleased to see you well Brother Shin."

Shin: "You two aren't exactly looking the best.."

Merek: "Forgive the appearance but combating seemingly superhuman Templars in waves will do that to you. I fear I'm running low on power as it were."

May: "Julius isn't in the district?"

Castor: "He may have fled when the battles began to take too long."

Shin: "Or he went to his control room.."

May: "Underground.."

Merek: "I'm afraid you're running low on time. Another wave is approaching. The other council members are all likely running on fumes by now and will resort to whatever measure necessary to protect their districts."

Lucianna: "Yes I fear this will resort in either the loss of council members or the loss of many innocent brothers and sisters."

Shin: "We have to get down to Julius's cathedral."

Castor: "Solomon did give you instructions on how to reach it. I assume it will be heavily guarded.."

Lucianna: "Brother Shin, take this." Handing over her staff.

Shin: "Sister Lucianna.."

Lucianna: "Whatever I said or did while under Julius's influence is something I must make amends for. If sacrificing myself for the greater good is necessary for you to stop him, so be it."

Merek: "I'm not leaving you to fight alone."

Castor: "Nor am I."

Lucianna: "Thank you both. Sister May, go with Brother Shin."

Shin takes the staff reluctantly, using its gravity powers to clear a path for himself and May to make the long trek down to the cathedral.

Moments after both are gone from view, more Templars appear to assault Lucianna's location. Lucianna, Merek, and Castor begin to do what they can to buy Shin and May time.

Merek and Castor battle against enhanced Templars but are forced away from Lucianna. Just as Lucianna looks to be overwhelmed, an armored figure crashes through the roof and knocks an entire group of Templars aside.

Oct: "Sorry I'm late, got caught up in traffic."

Lucianna: "You couldn't have used the door?"

Oct: "I like a dramatic entrance. I'm sure the boss will pay for repairs. Now, let's rock and roll..."

Location: Underground Cathedral.

Julius: "Bravo on your meaningless counterattack. In the end it won't matter. Either your council tragically falls, or they resort to taking the lives of members of my order. It'll just add fuel to the fire and all I have to do is.."

Shin rushes forward, knocking aside two Templars guarding the door and swings Lucianna's staff only for Julius to hold his own up and deflect the attack. Both men battle throughout the room, stray strikes crashing against the walls and floor.

Just as May breaks away from the few Templars she disarmed she sees Julius knock Shin to the ground and aim his staff. Before Julius can fire a blast at Shin, May fires a round, Julius is forced to activate a shield instead to block the round.

Julius turns and fires a blast at May, she dodges out of the way as Shin strikes Lucianna's staff against the ground, altering the gravity. Shin and Julius are momentarily sent into the air but come crashing down hard. The force causes the already unstable floor to crumble sending Julius and Shin falling down several floors.

Shin awakens moments later, his vision blurry. He glances over to see Julius standing in front of a control console. Shin goes to move only to realize he's been restrained.

Julius: "Seems you don't quite have the hang of Lucianna's weapon yet Brother Shin. Nor are you "enhanced" as they say. I must give credit where it's due. My dear colleague did a tremendous job procuring research notes for me."

Shin: "You tested it on them first...whatever you did to certain members of the order. You used them to make sure you could handle it yourself.."

Julius: "Something like that." Glancing over as the limp body of May is tossed into the room by another Templar.

Shin: "May!"

Julius: "Don't worry, she's very much alive. She has too much potential to throw away. I'll just have to reprogram her before I put her through the enhancement process. She'll have a place in my new order. My second, the right hand of God."

Shin: "You really are delusional..."

May remains awake but continues the ruse until she's able to flick something from er sleeve to her hand without Julius noticing. As Julius approaches May she leaps up and kicks him back while throwing a small knife that breaks Shin's wrist restriants.

Shin jumps up and rushes to the control console as May tries to hold Julius back. The other Templar grabs May and tosses her against the wall allowing Julius to grab the Bishop's Staff and strike Shin in the back.

May manages to dodge out of the way as the Templar goes to punch her and instead makes a hole in the wall. She spins behind him and ties his ankles together before striking him several times while his hand is stuck in the wall. He pulls free and turns only to trip and fall to the ground.

May grabs Lucianna's staff and tosses it to Shin who uses it to block Julius's next strike. Julius and Shin struggle as May runs to the controls and attempts to figure out how to stop the signal. Julius pushes Shin away and activates the staff's powers. May finds herself disoriented and falls to the ground and the room seems to spin.

Julius goes to strike her, but she manages to drop a flashbang from her sleeve and closes her eyes. Shin manages to cover his eyes as well. The grenade goes off and blinds Julius momentarily. He attempts to shake it off as Shin swings Lucianna's staff at him. He swings his own staff and finally manages to break Lucianna's apart as it had already shown cracks from the earlier battle between Lucianna and Shin.

Julius smirks and reveals a blade concealed in the bottom of the staff. Using it as a makeshift spear to attempt and impale Shin. May leaps up and lands a strike to Julius's back that propels him forward. Shin rolls out of the way and Julius's blade strikes the control console, causing it to spark.

Shin takes the broken half of Lucianna's staff and uses its jagged edge to strike the console several times, carving out pieces of it as it begins to shut down.

The restrained Templar on the ground begins to shake his head as the signal is broken.

Shin: "It's over Julius, you're finished."

Julius is furious as he looks to the control console. He presses a button on the Bishop's Staff which seems to activate something else in the Cathedral.

"Alert, demolition sequence initiated. Evacuate the premises immediately."

Julius begins to laugh as he catches Shin by surprise, stabbing him with the staff. May rushes over and pulls the staff back from Shin, struggling to pry it from Julius's grip. Julius overpowers her and slashes her across the face, striking one of her eyes.

May steps back in pain but now Julius is distracted, and Shin takes the opportunity to charge into him, knocking the staff aside. Julius stumbles backwards and gasps as he looks down and sees a sharp piece of metal partially broken off from the control console sticking through his side.

Shin ignores his own wound and reaches down to free the restrained Templar. Both take hold of May and help her exit the building as it begins to crumble. Julius struggles to free himself as the demolition charges go off one by one. He looks up as the entire cathedral crumbles down.

Templars across the city suddenly find themselves shaken up as if they were woken up from a dream. The battles cease. Solomon plays the recording from Shin's aShine of Julius admitting to all his wrongdoing across all aShines, televisions, and radio.

A few days later.

Shin, and May are treated for their injuries. Both expected to recover in time though May finds herself without the use of her left eye.

Lucianna has returned to her position as High Priestess but continues to state she has a lot to atone for. She begins to consider finding a true successor.

Julius is presumed deceased however no body has been recovered from the rubble.

A rabbit masked figure recovers the Bishop's Staff and seems to vanish into the tunnels.

Days later.

Lydia: "And while damage cleanup continues around the city, things have settled into relative normalcy again. We now take you live to the newest member on the Bundles of Lavender board of directors who has a special announcement to make."

Amorette: "Thank you Lydia. Hello Apricus City, it's wonderful to be here on behalf of the board. I know we've had a rough bit of business lately. With the dismissal of Miss Nava Lavender from the company, and the disappearance of our founders but we must soldier on."

"During the recent chaotic events, several of our warehouses, and retailers experienced violent break-ins. Millions of credits worth of goods were stolen. Several of our employees were viciously assaulted."

"We have combed through the security footage and think we have identified some suspects. As you see here one is very clearly augmented with rabbit ears and wielding a baseball bat. The DNA left behind at one of the crime scenes has identified some suspects, chief amongst them...Van Marigold."

"We here at Bundles of Lavender have authorized a large bounty for any and all suspects."

Several wanted posters are shown on screen, Van's is directly in the middle.

Amorette: "Thank you for your time Apricus, have a wonderful week."

Lydia: "That's it for today's news. Tune in tonight for an update about the strong storms expected to hit Apricus in the coming days."

[apricusnights]

Chapter Fifteen: Into The Unknown.

Location: The Spire, Direct Center of Apricus City.

Julius: "I've given you everything you requested. All of the awakened ability research, anything you desired from the Cathedral, even let you browse the Consecration archives, and you complain about me asking you for a bit more than the original agreement?"

Masked Man: "I've been rather busy Julius; your interruptions have become a bit of a nuisance. However, I do understand your point. What exactly do you need from me now?"

Julius: "The council is plotting against me; I'm almost certain Solomon survived and is aiding them in some way. I've worked too hard to let everything slip away so easily."

Masked Man: "And what do you want me to do about it?"

Julius: "Let me use the Aurora."

Masked Man: "It's still being tested. I had to add my own tweaks to it since the data I stole from Ciar was still incomplete."

Julius: "Think of it as a trial run. If it works, you'll be well on your way to completing Sunrise."

Masked Man: "Field testing would be quite beneficial. Very well, use it if you like."

Julius: "You have my gratitude. May the Creator bless you."

Several weeks later.

Location: Delta Town.

Shin: "Julius is up to something. Every day a small group of Templars go on some so-called special assignment he sends them. When they come back, they refuse to mention anything about it."

May: "You're First Templar, you're the one they should be receiving orders from."

Shin: "You know as well as I do that Julius gave me this position to make himself look better. The Templars still follow him blindly."

May: "If you ask me, this is no longer a matter of faith. I'm afraid my brothers and sisters have been led astray."

Shin: "Nice way to say brainwashed but yes, I agree with you. We only know a small amount about that staff Julius is carrying around. It's likely capable of more things than we can imagine. The Empire hid it away for a reason."

May: Glancing down at her aShine. "I believe they are beginning to realize I have no interest in anything Julius is trying to sell. Castor keeps messaging me wondering why I won't accompany him on the upcoming assignment."

Shin: "Leave Castor to me, I refuse to believe he's fallen under Julius's spell. As for you, you might want to lay low for a while. I'll think of a cover story for you at the upcoming meeting."

May: "Very well, but if you need me do not hesitate to call."

Shin: "Same to you Sister May. Good luck out there."

Location: Evergreen Basin.

Sunil: "Listen, I know it's hard to believe but I'm just asking you to trust me on this. I can't tell you where I got the information from. Just that I have it and I know where we need to go."

Puck remained silent as he sat listening to Sunil's explanations.

Cerise: "You realize we're going to go with you if you do this right? There is no way I'm letting you two idiots go out there on your own. With the amount of nat ones that you both roll? It'd be a disaster."

Puck: "I take offense to take!"

Night: "Yeah but she's got a point. If you wanna do this, we might as well go too. Hecaball season is over, may have played my last game anyway."

Puck: "I haven't even agreed to this yet!"

Sable: "But it'd be so much fun! Think of the adventure!"

Night: "Who said you were going?"

Hugo: "If I go, she goes, and if you go, I go. Someone has to protect you nerds."

Sunil: "Just give it a bit of thought. It'll take a bit to make preparations anyway. I promise you won't regret it."

Puck: "Fine, I'll think about it. Wouldn't be the first time I jumped headfirst into the unknown.."

Sunil: "That's the spirit!"

Location: Solis Heights.

Ajax: "You holdin up alright?"

Nava: "Normally I'd try and keep a straight face and tell you yes. The problem is, being around you so much has actually made me show more emotions."

Ajax: "I've sinned against the natural order."

Nava: "Shut up. SEE, that! No, I am not holding up ok. One of the people I wanted to think was my friend is apparently plotting my downfall. I knew this day would come; I just didn't expect it to be her."

Ajax: "Who did you actually expect would betray you.."

Nava: "I'll show you the files later. For now, I don't know what to do. The board is holding an emergency meeting in a few weeks. I don't have much time to convince them that I should stay with the company."

Ajax: "So we have to either find out where the hell your parents are, or we have to figure out a way to outsmart the bitch who's in the ears of the entire board of directors."

Nava: "Van knows about her. I never thought I would say this, but we may need his help. Ugh that makes me feel dirty just saying it."

Ajax: "Dirty huh?"

Nava: "Not now...I'm starting to scheme."

Ajax: "Even hotter."

Nava: "Why did I end up with you of all people. What even is my life now?"

Ajax: "Exciting?"

Nava: "I..come on, we have work to do."

Days later.

Location: Templar Meeting Hall.

Julius: "I realize I've stepped aside and given my previous position to Brother Shin however I had no choice but to call this emergency meeting ."

Shin pushes the doors open and makes his way to the podium to confront Julius.

Shin: "You have no right to call anything to order. You're no longer First Templar, you never truly were in the first place. Now you're masquerading as High Priest in the wake of Lucianna's disappearance."

Julius: "Ah, I wondered if you would be joining us. Always a pleasure Shin."

Shin: "Where is Lucianna? I refuse to believe you know nothing about her whereabouts."

Julius: "I assure you I don't have the slightest idea."

Shin: "Just like you didn't have the slightest idea about what happened to Brother Solomon?" Shin puts his aShine on the podium and presses a button. A hologram of Solomon appears. Solomon begins to present evidence of Julius's actions as well as what really happened in the Underground Cathedral.

Julius: "So the old man survived after all. Shame.."

Shin: "So you admit it, you attacked him. You've been using everything you found down there to turn the Templars into your own private army."

Julius: "Of course, why would I lie about that?"

Shin notices the Templars seem unphased by the revelation.

Shin: "What did you do to them?"

Julius: "The same thing I plan to do to you. Well, perhaps only for a short period of time. I do owe a friend some more research data, I'm sure being able to test your rather peculiar ability would be fascinating to him.."

Shin: "Should have known you weren't smart enough to do any of this yourself.."

Julius shrugged before activating the staff and sending a blast of energy towards Shin. Shin manages to dodge out of the way but begins to feel the staff's effects just as Solomon did. Being brought to his knees. He tries to shake off the dizziness, but the entire room seems to be spinning.

Julius points the staff at Shin once more, the Templars simply watching. Before he can fire, he's struck in the back and knocked aside. Castor reaches out and helps Shin back to his feet. Castor pulls Shin over to a section of the wall that suddenly opens up to reveal May standing on the other side.

Castor helps shin into the hidden passage just as Julius turns and points to them. The Templars turning their attention and beginning to rush toward the wall. May is able to throw a flashbang out which temporarily neutralizes the mob. She closes the wall again and helps Castor lead Shin down into the tunnel system.

Julius: "You see now! Shin has betrayed us! Castor betrayed us! May betrayed us! The city council is plotting to betray us! It's time we take matters into our own hands! We will eliminate those who have strayed! We will bring the Creator's wrath upon the blasphemers!"

Julius: "It is time to purge this city of the wicked. Something my predecessor never had the fortitude to do. When it is all said and done, I will become the spiritual leader this city deserves. The only leader this city deserves. But in order to save the city, I must first be its reckoning."

Unbeknownst to Julius, the aShine Shin left behind had been recording everything said in the hall.

Days later.

Location: Aurora Vale.

As Mr. Ciar finishes addressing the crowd about some upcoming products, he notices several Templars in the crowd looking directly at him.

Location: Upper Docks.

Captain Larsen, Van, Nerys, and Viridian are disembarking from a short voyage to attending a meeting with Kawakami. Larsen points out how strangely quiet it is. Van notices Templars standing on nearby rooftops, looking in their direction.

Location: Smokey Gardens.

Just as Styles receives a communication from Lapis, he glances at the security system to see Templars standing out in the woods surrounding the cabin he and Lazuli are currently in.

Location: Solis Heights.

Tyrael Cheshire and his family exit a restaurant. He pauses when he senses something is wrong. Several Templars are standing in the crowd across the street, seemingly fixated on the Cheshire family.

Location: Diamond District.

Miranda Fisher, Roland Marigold, and Jae Aryl arrive at a reported crime scene only to find the entire area deserted. Except for the Templars watching them from the doorways of several nearby buildings.

Location: Capitol Square.

Mayor Lowell is sitting in his office as he's buzzed about someone waiting for him downstairs. He glances at the security system and notices several Templars in the lobby. He reaches down and presses a button under his desk.

Location: Apricus University.

Dr. Xanthos is having a staff meeting about his decision to return to being Dean of the university. He receives an alert about trespassers on campus. Shani brings up the surveillance system and sees Templars moving from building to building.

Location: Cherry Hills.

Darcie and her family are attending a town hall meeting as she's notified of several non-residents being seen around town. The door flings open, and Typhon throws the unconscious body of a Templar on the ground. Several others begin to enter the district.

Location: Aurora Vale.

A man wearing a hooded jacket approaches the entrance to a secluded health spa. Several Templars Walk forward to deny him entrance. The man holds up his arms and releases a swarm of scarabs from his sleeves. The Templars are incapacitated by the bugs.

The man forces his way into the building, stopping by a secure storage area and retrieving a staff. Scarabs swarm through the building and take care of anyone attempting to stop him

He finally reaches a room locked room and commands the bugs to pull open the door. The door falls down and the bugs enter the room. The pick apart the restraints that were keeping a hooded woman locked down.

Merek pulls the hood of his cloak down before removing the last of the woman's restraints, pulling the hood off her head and handing over her staff.

Merek: "Vacation is over, time to save the city."

Lucianna stands up and stretches, taking her staff from Merek.

Lucianna: "Never thought I'd have you to thank. Nevertheless, Julius has much to answer for..."

Both exit the building as alarms can be heard going off throughout the city.

To Be Continued.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Fourteen: Face The Music.

Author's note: The songs linked here are usually not exactly what the characters are singing. They are just meant to be examples.

Location: Apricus City.

A mysterious broadcast has started on every channel. The picture remains static until what seems like an individual partially comes into view. They are seen wearing a multi-colored tuxedo gown with musical notes printed on it here and there. Their face is partially covered by an opera mask, and for whatever reason they appear to be wearing a top hat. When they speak it's translated but their Réunion accent is unmistakable.

???: "Ello Apricus City! Don't try to change the channel, I'm everywhere at once! The true star of the show has finally arrived to bring joy to your boring little lives! Ah but where are my manners? You may call me The Conductor!" Waving their conductor's baton with a flourish.

Conductor: "I am here to take you away from all of your silly little problems! I shall brighten up your day and give you the gift of MUSIC! You see all the world is a stage, so it's time to play your parts! Sing your songs! Bare your very soul! Shine bright!" A series of strange notes is suddenly heard as the Conductor draws symbols in the air with their baton. The symbols appearing on everyone's screen one after the other before the Conductor takes a bow and the broadcast ends.

Location: Board Room, Bundles of Lavender corporate headquarters.

Amorette is addressing a small group of board members who have decided it's necessary to move on from the Lavender family's leadership.

Amorette: "It's simply the truth, isn't it? Look at Nava for example. She's a sweet girl but she's nothing but trouble for our corporate image. Her parents are...stuck in the past. If you continue down the road, you're on, this company will burn itself to the ground."

Board Member: "What you're proposing is far more than just a corporate takeover. You're talking about.."

Amorette clicks off the security systems. The cameras power down as she walks over and begins to sing as she stands behind each board member. As the song goes on she presses a button on the wall that opens up several windows.

The song comes to end with her standing behind the board member who originally questioned her. She smiles and takes hold of his chair. Her nails impale him as she wheels the chair over and casually pushes him out of the window.

Amorette: "Any other objections? Good.."

Several days later.

Location: Shopping District, Cherry Hills.

Ivory: "Molly you know I appreciate retail therapy as much as the next person but should we really be out doing this with everything going on?"

Molly: "Do I have to remind you that all of that crap is not our problems? Who cares about some weird musician making empty threats? I've got an unlimited credit card and there are SALES EVERYWHERE!"

Molly grabs Ivory and begins singing as she pulls her from store to store.

The song ends as Molly and Ivory leave a store followed by several people carrying their bags.

Molly: "That was weird.."

Ivory: "Told you."

Location: Upper Docks.

Nava: "I hate being here, it smells like fish."

Bonnie: "You like fish."

Nava: "I like good fish, not fish that smell like fish."

Van: "So remind me again why you're here?"

Nava: "I need to find out what route my parents ship is on and when they'll be back. Something is going on at the company and I don't really know how to handle it."

Van: "I can ask Viridian to track it down. But now you've got me curious. Oh hey Lye, what's up?"

Lye waves to everyone before walking over and handing a bunch of tickets to Van.

Lye: "Hand these out to everyone, they are for the upcoming show. And for the love of everything, please behave. I don't know if I can stop Amias from murdering you with a hat pin."

Van: "That's oddly specific but fine, I'll try to be good. Anyway Nava, what happened?"

Nava: "A friend of mine told me that the board is threating to kick me out. I think something happened because one of the older members is missing."

Van: "You have more friends?"

Nava: "I have plenty of friends! The exact amount I need."

Bonnie: "Yeah she's known Amorette for a while."

Lye: "What did you say..."

Bonnie: "Amorette, that's her name.."

Lye: "Oh fuck.."

Van: "So she's not dead..that's unfortunate."

Nava: "What am I missing here?"

Van starts to talk about his previous relationship with Amorette but suddenly bursts into song.

Lye: "I didn't know you could sing.."

Van: Visibly confused "I can't.."

Nava: "Pardon my language but..shit."

Location: Diamond District.

Jae: "I can't help but feel like we should be out there trying to catch this Conductor idiot."

Amelia: "Don't worry about it, I've been looking into places they have supposedly robbed and think I may have a pattern."

Jae: "Working on a date is supposed to be my job."

Amelia: "Har har. Listen Aryl, this is a karaoke bar isn't it? Let's go sing something!"

Jae: Getting dragged over to the machine by Amelia "I can't sing.."

Amelia: "Nobody here can, so just let it go."

Jae: "We're not singing that one. What else does this machine have.."

Amelia: "OH this one!"

The song is cued up, Amelia and Jae take tuns singing it. Strangely Jae does exceptionally well.

Amelia; "That was amazing! Wait, why did you know that song so well.."

Jae: "We need to find the Conductor..."

Amelia: "But you.."

Jae: "Come on, I've got an alert coming in."

Location: Solis Heights.

Fisher: "You mean to tell me NO surveillance systems have any recordings of this idiot? This is the seventh place they have robbed and all we get is "everyone got caught up in a dance number" and there is no footage of the thief."

Marigold: "Maybe you should check with the Union rep.."

Lapis: "That would be me. I assure you that there is no problem with the power grid, the security systems should be working smoothly."

Marigold: "Well that obviously ain't the case is it. Union sure seems to be slackin lately, and where the hell is your boss?"

A few strange notes are heard playing over everyone's aShines. Lapis suddenly finds himself backed up by several union workers that are breakdancing and acting as a hype crew. He can't seem to control himself as he raps about the situations the union is dealing with.

Lapis looks mortified as he finishes and proceeds to go back to work.

Fisher: "What..was THAT?"

Location: Evergreen Theater, Evergreen Basin.

Just as the current play is about to head to intermission, the lights suddenly turn off save for one spotlight on the stage. The Conductor dramatically descends from the rafters and poses for the crowd.

Conductor: "What a wonderful stage! Too bad it's currently being used by such amateurs!" Smirking and spinning out of the way as Mel tried to tackle them.

"Oh what's the matter, aren't you fond of the way I've turned your boring little lives upside down? You've been making such wonderful music! Everything seems so much brighter now don't you think?"

"I have to admit I may have some selfish reasons, see I have a few sponsors back home who are always willing to fund my next performance. I just have to do a little shopping for them, sometimes I have to clean up some messes as well but I HATE getting my hands dirty.." Snapping their white gloves.

"You know, I can't help but feel a bit of tension on the stage...could it perhaps be our leading man?" Pointing toward Amias with their baton. "Maybe you have something to say to someone in the crowd! Someone I've noticed you can't take your eyes off of! Well spill it! Let the world know your feelings!" A strange symbol appeared in the air before flying over but before it could strike Amias it was blasted apart by a strange beam shot from the King of Hearts' cane.

King of Hearts: "Nice try but I've seen this trick before! Now give it up and make this easy on yourself!" He approached the Conductor, both ready to clash.

Just as this happened the PWSB burst into the theater causing the Conductor to vanish with a theatrical flourish in a cloud of smoke.

Lye: "Are you alright?"

Amias: "Thanks to our friend over...where did he go?"

Lye: "I think maybe you and Van need to have a talk some time. You always tell me not to bottle things up. Might be time to take your own advice."

Amias: "I..yeah. Let's just finish the play for now."

Mel: "Showoff. Anyway, sorry about the interruption everyone. We'll be back momentarily!"

Location: Apricus Rooftops.

The Conductor leapt across the rooftops, pursued by the King of Hearts. Both jumping to opposite rails on the train tracks and sliding along. The King of Hearts' cane clashed against the Conductor's baton, every strike sending more of the strange symbols out across the city. Every time one struck someone they'd be compelled to suddenly burst into song.

Night, and Puck found themselves struck by a symbol as they exited the bounty hunting lodge with Cerise, and Sunil. Unable to stop themselves from singing while their respective partners stood dumbfounded.

Sable: "That was so COOL!"

Hugo: "If one of those things hits me, I want you to shoot me before I start singing."

The PWSB sped through the streets attempting to keep up with the Conductor and the King. Both of whom were still battling across the rooftops. More of the symbols flew through the air.

Violet: "It's a sort of cloaking technology."

Catalina: "Are you sure?"

Violet: "Yeah, Templars use something like it to avoid being caught on enemy surveillance. You'll still show up but think of it like a really laggy game where the model pops in and out."

Catalina: "You hearing this Laurel?"

Laurel: Via aShine "Got it, makes sense. Listen, I hear sirens in the distance..I think we might be able to corner this weirdo."

Catalina: "Got it, will try and meet up with you."

Violet: "Hey before you go, uh are you still holding auditions for a co-host. Ya know, for your dating show cause I.."

Radio Nearby: "And now, the hit new single from Bubblegum Explosion!"

Just as the song start, Catalina and Violet were struck by the symbols and began singing and dancing uncontrollably to the song.

After it was over both tried to catch their breath.

Catalina: "That never happened. And..yeah stop by the studio."

Violet: "AWESOME!"

Conductor: "Isn't it wonderful! Look around you, listen to the music! You plebians dare call me a criminal but all I'm doing is making the world more theatrical!"

King of Hearts: "Maybe I'd give you some slack if you weren't stealing from every district in the city and making people dance to death!"

Conductor: "Oh I haven't done that in ages but I do remember it being quite fun! Maybe I'll try it once this chase is over and I've disposed of you!"

King of Hearts: "You really are a lunatic.."

Conductor: "Baby you have no idea!"

The Conductor sent a symbol flying through the air and made it strike the engineer driving one of the trains heading right toward the king. The engineer was compelled to sing and dance, bumping into the controls and speeding up the train.

The Conductor smirked and leapt off the tracks, waving at the King. The King of Hearts had no choice but to let him go, instead jumping to another rail and shooting out a grappling cable. He attached it to the door and pulled himself to it, opening it up and slamming on the breaks to bring the train to a stop.

Several hours later.

Location: Upper Docks.

Conductor: "I've loaded everything you asked for on a ship. They've no idea what the cargo actually is, and with everything going on they won't notice the ship leaving in the middle of the night. You'll have your prize soon."

They were speaking to someone via their modified aShine while overseeing the last of the cargo be loaded on to the ship.

Conductor: "I'll get back to you later. I think I'm about to have company." Signaling for the ship to disembark. They made their way out of the warehouse smiling.

Laurel: "Told you we could track them down.."

Jae: "You're under arrest!"

Several PWSB soldiers pointed their weapons at the Conductor, but they seemed unbothered. Instead taking a bow before twirling through the line of officers. Their baton making quick work of anyone it touched, dropping them to the floor with a jolt of electricity.

Blaine managed to use his gloves to block the attack and pushed the Conductor back before he could be shocked. Donovan, and Laurel both fired at the Conductor to keep them busy.

Amelia: "Keep it up, don't let them breathe. If they can't concentrate, they can't use their ability!"

Jae rushed forward, swinging his sword down and clashing against the Conductor's baton. It gave Blaine just enough time to land a few strong punches to the Conductor. The Conductor's focus shifted to Blaine momentarily which allowed Donovan to fire an arrow that broke apart and wrapped a wire around the Conductor's legs, effectively rendering them unable to move.

Jae was finally able to knock the baton away before pointing his sword at the defeated enemy.

Amelia: "Don't try any of your tricks. I know what kind of tech you've been using, and I augmented Donovan's arrows with our own tech to cancel out yours."

Laurel: "What about the whole singing..thing?"

Amelia: "They need to focus it using technology. I imagine the ability on its own may be a little bit.."

Conductor: "Unstable? Well, you know what they say, the ability does match the user! I will say bravo for figuring everything out..well almost everything."

Amelia: "Who hired you...why did they go through the trouble of getting you on a prison transport close to here AND break you out just so you could end up in Apricus?"

Conductor: "It's all part of the show sweetheart. Though as much as I hate to admit it, I'm just the opening act!" The Conductor's baton began beeping.

The baton spun around and flew through the air toward the Conductor, but Amelia reached out and grabbed it, only for Amelia to be pulled in by the Conductor themselves when she got too close.

Conductor: "Ready for the finale? Shall we go out with a BANG?"

Laurel lined up a shot but waited until Jae was in the right position. Jae got a running start before Laurel fired, her shot striking the Conductor's left hand and causing their grip to loosen. Amelia managed to pull away just as Jae shoulder tackled the Conductor off the dock.

The Conductor landed in the water far below just as their baton went off with a huge explosion. Part of the dock was blown apart, debris flying everywhere.

Donovan and Blaine rushed over to look down into the water. There was no body, no trace of anyone. Just pieces of the half-destroyed dock.

Laurel: "Larsen is gonna be pissed."

Jae: "I'm sure the Bureau will cover the repair costs. Though I'd rather not stick around to see the Captain's reaction."

Amelia: "So you gonna tell me how you knew that song?"

Jae: "Don't you have a report to file?"

Amelia shook her head as the group opted to take their leave from the docks. A radio left out by one of the dock workers began to play a song that seemed to go unnoticed.

[apricusnights]

Chapter Thirteen: Worlds Apart.

Location: Council Hall, Capitol Square.

Larsen: "I told you this was a fucking stupid idea, but you all just decided to go ahead with it anyway!"

Ciar: "I assure you I had everything under control."

Cheshire: "Doubtful. You've been blaming the incompetence of the Bureau this entire time, but it was YOUR building, YOUR security that didn't live up to expectations."

Fisher: "The Bureau were handling things outside of the building. You'll have to forgive us for not anticipating the walking war machine that showed up."

Styles: "Like the one you've got under your thumb that you can just call in whenever you like? I don't think any of us fucking approved that last time I checked!"

Xanthos: "Perhaps we should all take a minute to.."

Larsen: "To what? Why are you even here, why did we agree to let you stay on this damn council. That whole checkmate bullshit was partially thanks to you trying to play with things you couldn't control!"

Lowell: "If I may interrupt, does anyone know the location of Lucianna or Merek? I haven't heard anything from them recently."

The spot usually reserved for Lucianna's hologram activated though in her place was Brother Julius.

Julius: "You'll have to excuse me; I've been rather busy as of late."

Styles: "Fuck off back to where you came from. Just because you're calling yourself the High Priest doesn't mean you're a council member."

Julius: "Perhaps that could be rectified. If you would consider my application to join the council in Sister Lucianna's place until she returns."

Lowell: "Do you happen to know where she is?"

Julius: "Unfortunately no, I am aware that she decided to take a sabbatical. I wasn't told anything else."

Fisher: "I highly doubt that.."

Julius: "Hmm?"

Larsen: "She said you're a lying sack of shit and everyone here knows it. Let me save you the trouble, your application is denied. Get the hell out of my sight."

Larsen slams his fist down and deactivates Julius's hologram.

Lowell: "Well..this has been productive..."

Several days later.

Location: Evergreen Theater, Evergreen Basin.

Lye: "Ok, you've been off this entire day. This is easy mode; we've done this play at least a dozen times. What's bothering you?"

Amias: "Most of your family is supposed to show up for this one remember?"

Lye: "What's the problem with that? Is Dad hassling you again? Listen, it's just his way. Least he hasn't challenged you to a fight or anything..yet."

Amias: "Lye, it's your brother. You know how I feel about Van. I try not to let it get to me, I know everything happened a long time ago. I know you're trying to move on but I just have this urge to punch him in the face every time I see him."

Mel: "Hun, a lot of people have that urge. Van has a punchable face."

Lye: "Not helping Mel. Listen, I understand where you're coming from.."

Amias: "Do you? I had to listen to everything. I can't count how many times I heard you almost having a breakdown while you were staying with us. I wanted to borrow a hatpin from my sister and jam it through your brother's eye."

Lye: "That's oddly specific. A hatpin?"

Amias: "You know she's a fashion designer. Plus have you seen a good hatpin? Those things are basically weapons."

Lye: "It's sweet that you were willing to maim my brother for me but I'm just asking you to put up with him for a little bit of time. He's..kind of trying his best these days."

Amias: "Yeah fine, I'll try and ignore him but if he makes one stupid remark.."

Lye: "It'll be fine, nothing is going to happen."

Mel: "Ok ok, places people. We're gonna run through it again from the top! Ready? Let's go!"

Location: Smokey Gardens.

Lazuli: "So you think the templars are still looking for me? Even after what happened a few weeks back?"

Styles: "Not as actively, pretty sure the shitbags have other things on their minds now."

Cordelia: "Probably best to keep you hidden out here for a little while longer. Least until we deal with the situation involving Julius."

Lazuli: "You really think he's just taken control? Would it have been that easy?"

Cordelia: "He was in the High Priestess's ear for who knows how long. He's probably brainwashed the entire templar order if our information is correct. I doubt any of this was easy, he likely worked years to get to where he is now."

Styles: "Piece of shit thinks he can just step in like that and nobody will care. Even tried to join the fucking council last meeting. I don't think you're very high on his priority list, but he'd still love to be able to control that power of yours."

Lazuli: "I don't even know how my power works. I can't control it, it just happened."

Cordelia: "I know someone who might be able to help you with that, but we can't risk it until Julius is dealt with and the right people are in charge of the church again."

Lazuli: "One last thing I've been wondering. Since I don't have a lot to do out here, I've been watching a lot of programs. Does anyone know what the deal with that white rabbit symbol popping up everywhere is?"

Styles: "White Rabbit?"

Lazuli: "Yeah, it flashes for a split second if you're paying attention.."

Styles: "Show me.."

Location: Guardian District.

Marigold: "This whole fuckin city was already a powder keg, seems like someone just cut the fuse shorter."

Miranda: "The council is blaming each other for what happened at the art exhibit. Cheshire and Ciar were arguing after it ended and almost came to blows. We need to figure out how to at least solve one of our problems."

Aryl: "Which one? Julius? The traitors? The masked man and Chimera? The fact that every other kingdom out there is practically pointing arsenals at everyone else?"

Marigold: "Everyone except Crepusculum that is. They've been more than happy to just supply anyone who comes knocking and has enough money to throw around."

Aryl: "You think they have something to do with..anything going on?"

Marigold: "Maybe but considering they aren't actively making any moves and are currently a little too cozy with the mayor, it's best to leave them for later."

Miranda: "They are currently considered an ally and we don't have many of those left. I don't want to risk pissing off one of the most technologically advanced places in the world just because of a hunch."

Aryl: "So what do we focus on?"

Miranda: "Julius, I already have a plan in motion, but I can't say anything about it. Never know who might be listening in, even here."

Marigold: "Hey Aryl, don't you have another date with Amelia coming up? Where you takin her?"

Aryl: "Uh she wants to go to some karaoke bar in the Diamond District..but I don't sing.."

Miranda: "Most people that go to those places don't sing. Don't sweat it, just try and have some fun. Forget about everything going on for a night if you can."

Aryl: "Yeah..guess you're right."

Location: Aurora Vale.

Laurel: "And explain to me again why we're on this case? This seems like a bounty hunter job.."

Donovan: "Aw come on sis, aren't you the least bit interested in this? It's unique!"

Laurel: "It may be unique, but I don't really know if we're equipped to handle this."

Blaine: "You act like we're even gonna find the guy..is it a guy?"

Catalina: "Dunno, but they robbed one of my shops and nobody robs a Darling and lives to tell the tale!"

Blaine: "Ohhh I like you!"

Donovan: "Little dramatic don't ya think?"

Laurel: "Everybody shut up, look.."

Laurel points to a monitor as she plays back security camera footage.

Blaine: "What the fuck is going on?"

Donovan: "Are they..singing?"

Catalina: "Look, pause it..right there. Person in the hooded jacket..."

Laurel: "How are they only there for one frame.."

Donovan: "And why is everyone else acting like they are in a musical or something?"

Laurel: "Did anyone interview them after this happened?"

Catalina: "Yeah, they said they didn't know what came over them. They don't even remember seeing anyone else walk into the place."

Laurel: "Well, Donovan did say this was unique. Let's get out of here, I wanna check the footage from one of the street cameras if we can get access to them."

Location: Upper Docks.

Larsen: "How long was she out there for?"

Viridian: "Patrol found her drifting, no clue how long it's been. She's a prison transport ship. She's got the Réunion flag flying."

Larsen: "Anyone left aboard?"

Viridian: "Apparently she was only carrying one prisoner. Crew is deceased, prisoner is currently missing. One of the lifeboats was gone."

Larsen: "An entire ship just to transport one prisoner?"

Viridian: "I got into contact with Réunion authorities. They refuse to disclose much information other than the prisoner is apparently referred to as "The Conductor".

Larsen: "The fuck kind of name is that?"

Viridian: "No idea, we don't have information in our systems and like I said, Réunion isn't really that willing to play ball."

Larsen: "Well isn't this just the cherry on top of the shit sundae.."

[apricusnights]

Apricus Public Access TV: Part Three.

"Hi there everyone! I hope you've been having just the most wonderful week ever! It sure is a shame about what happened at that funny art exhibit huh? Well don't you worry cause Sunset Storytime Theater is here with a fantastic new episode that will take your mind off of things!"

"Get settled in, it's time for another super special fairy tale!"

"HaVe YoU EvEr HeArD ThE StOrY Of ThE DaNcEr AnD ThE RoGuE?"

"Did you know there is a nomadic clan that has a super cool way it decides who the new chieftain is when the time comes? You see sometimes one of them sets out to confront one of the five emperors! If they survive the fight and the emperors say they are worthy, they come back, and everyone has a big pizza party! And of course, that person becomes the new chieftain that tries in vain to live up to their predecessor."

"Now as fun as that may be, that isn't the main subject of the story! No, our main subject is a set of twins! Children of the current chieftain! A beautiful girl, and a strong young man. They were close for a while, as all siblings usually are. Until the young man decided on another lot in life. See he suffered from enjoyed a deep-rooted anger!"

"Perhaps he felt his sister was the family's pride and joy? Who knows! One day there was a falling out..and well..the young man was not so nice to his sister booooo. She suffered all sorts of mental trauma! She even had to leave home and stay with another family for quite some time! While the young man fell in with the wrong crowd! OH NO."

"The girl did something reckless out of her desire to be stronger or perhaps just to get revenge on her brother. Everyone has scars. Meanwhile the boy fell in love with a girl who embraced his violence. He found friends who liked him for who he was! He found an employer who was happy to let him unleash all that rage!"

"The girl continued to dance, spinning around on a stage in order to hide her own emotions pain, sorrow, rage. The boy slipped further and further into the dark. Until one day the boy understood the truth. He was nothing but a weapon. The one he loved didn't love him back, she only loved controlling him. So he ran..and he jumped into the sea. Perhaps content to sink into the abyss."

"But a funny thing happened and he was saved by a war hero! He was taken in and given a chance to change. He was even accepted back into the clan and allowed to get some wonderful ears follow the white rabbits."

"Wouldn't you know it though, his sister wasn't so forgiving.."

"Everything he did still hangs above their heads like a sword"

"Relatives are still quick to judge despite the boy wanting to change."

"Everyone has to make a choice. Can you forgive and forget?"

"Have you ever been wronged by friends or family?"

"Ever been forced to accept someone, like it or not?"

"Really makes you think huh? Are they really sorry?"

"Eventually judgement will come to us all, one way or another."

[apricusnights]

Chapter Twelve: Heist Of A Lifetime.

Location: Ciar Tower, Aurora Vale.

Lydia: "Hello Apricus! Lydia Reliford here for Apricus News. As you can see, we're here at the newly remodeled Ciar Tower which is playing host to what some are calling the most important art exhibit in recent memory!"

"Everyone who is everyone is here tonight! We have members of the council, Mayor Lowell, representatives of world leaders, celebrities, and all sorts of movers and shakers!"

"We've got plenty of law enforcement providing security. From the PWSB, to the Navy, to Ciar Security. I've even been told that some bounty hunters have been hired to help protect these priceless works of art! Speaking of, I'm getting word that a painting from Réunion is about to be unveiled."

"This painting come from an artist who..."

The crowd suddenly gasps as the unveiling takes place but instead of the promised work of art, a large "replica" made out of macaroni is revealed.

Jasper and Mel at the same time: "Fuck.."

Van: "Oh great, barely even started and this is turning into a shit show. Alright, remember what the captain said. We're here to help prevent this from getting any worse. Spread out and offer assistance where it's needed."

Nerys: "I'll be helping coordinate. Keep the guests from panicking and we'll get through this."

Kash and Russ are making their way through the crowd, both wearing disguises. Kash stops for a moment directly behind Van.

Kash: "Hi Van."

Van: "Hey."

Van suddenly realizes he recognizes the voice and quickly turns but doesn't see Kash.

Van: "There's no way.."

Nerys: "What?"

Van: "Nothing.."

Stephanie's voice is heard coming from the speakers.

Stephanie: "Attention everyone. The building is currently on lockdown for security reasons. We ask that you all remain calm and co-operate with any law enforcement officers who make requests of you. Please proceed through the nearest security checkpoint to be cleared. We ask that you report anything suspicious. If we all work together, we should be able to get through this quickly."

Location: Outside Ciar Tower, Aurora Vale.

White Rabbit agent: "Something is going on, they put the building on lockdown."

White Rabbit (Queen) via radio: "Well we can't have that now, can we? Kill the power for as long as you can."

The White Rabbit agent activates a small spider like robot that scurries through the crowd gathered outside before entering through an air vent and heading inside the building. It makes its way to one of the security checkpoints and plugs into a console.

White Rabbit agent: "Good to go, little fella will knock the power out temporarily. We got other problems though; I'm tracking a huge PWSB response headed this way."

White Rabbit (Queen): "Kill the power. As for the PWSB, I have someone taking care of that. Once you're finished, get out of there."

It only takes a few seconds for the spider robot to hack through the systems and access the power grid. Floor by floor the power begins to turn off. By the time the robot is found and destroyed it's too late.

Location: Aurora Vale.

Several PWSB vehicles entered the district accompanied by Apricus PD squad cars. Sirens blared as they made their way toward Ciar tower.

"This is Delta Squad leader checking in. We are in sight of Ciar Tower. Preparing to...what the hell is that?"

The communication was cut off as an individual wearing power armor stepped into the middle of the street with a weapon in each hand. A rocket was fired from one and struck a PWSB vehicle, sending it spinning into one of the squad cars and causing both to crash.

The secondary weapon launched several grenades which exploded along the street, sending several other vehicles flying. The surviving officers attempted to crawl from the wreckage as the individual approached.

With the press of a button one weapon reconfigured itself into something resembling a bolt gun. Before he could take aim though he was struck by a speeding PWSB vehicle, dropping his weapons before being pinned against the wall of a building.

Oct wasted no time in kicking the vehicle's door off and making his way over to other armor user. The other man locked eyes with Oct before slamming his fist down and pushing the car away, apparently having suffered little to no damage.

The two men squared off. The other man removed yet another weapon from a makeshift holster and revved it before swinging the chainsword toward Oct. Oct however was able to avoid the swing and in one swift motion activated his own chainsword. Something he'd have to thank the Bureau lab rats for later. This only caused the other man to laugh.

Oct: "Alright chucklefuck, who the hell are you?"

???: "I've been called many things, but I suppose "Betrayer" will do for this moment in time.."

Oct: "Betrayer of what.." He wasn't able to finish he thought, instead having to use his sword to block the Betrayer's. Sparks flying everywhere before the two men were driven back from each other. It only took a few seconds before each charged at each other again..

Location: Ciar Tower, Aurora Vale.

Andrasta: "What the hell do you mean the power got knocked out to the entire building? That's not possible, I should know, I made every system in this fucking building."

"Alright alright listen, tell security to try and stop people from leaving the building. We can't risk anyone getting out that stole that painting. You two, come with me and bring that robot you found. We're going down to the generators."

Location: Upper floors, Ciar Tower.

King of Hearts: "Cute trick with the power moth boy, but did you really think you could outsmart me?"

Antoine: "Why do you think I hadn't left yet? Well, besides wanting to grab a few trinkets off the unsuspecting crowd."

King: "Back to pickpocketing huh? Thought you moved on from that."

Antoine: "Let me finish! The reason I hadn't left was because I wanted to see how long it took you to find me. And to see how long it takes you to realize I'm always three steps ahead." Flipping out of the way as Mel appeared from behind and attempted to restrain him.

Mel: "Antoine stop it! You know damn well if that goes missing the council is going to be furious with Apricus! You're risking global conflict with your pettiness."

Antoine: "Pettiness? No. There will be no global conflict. You see eventually I'll return the painting to the council, they'll never know who stole it..until of course word gets out about the fabled King of Hearts making an appearance."

King: "So this is still about me huh? Sounds a lot like pettiness.."

Antoine: "I am NOT petty! You took her away from us! The council needs her!"

Mel: "Antoine.."

King: "Here I thought we might have worked this out...are you still just a child?"

Antoine: "Maybe I learned a few things you didn't want me to know old man.."

Mel: "Antoine, who've you been talking to.."

Antoine: "Maybe if your boyfriend is clever enough, he can figure it out!" Dropping several smoke pellets before fleeing.

Mel: "He's heading to the roof! Follow him up the stairs, I'll try and cut him off!"

The King of Hearts pursued Antoine as Mel broke open a window and launched a grappling device up several floors.

Location: Exhibit room, Ciar Tower.

Kash: "Think we got enough? We're pretty loaded up!"

Russ: "Yeah, besides the boss said not to take everything. Gotta spread the wealth."

Kash: "Yeah but I mean, those Viking dorks had some super cool stuff! I'm keepin this axe."

Russ: "You don't even know how to use that.."

Kash: "Yeah but it reminds me of that one comic, Morely Vs. The World Serpent!"

Russ: "Fine whatever, grab a few of the jewels from Nivis and we'll head out. She's already in the system and I can have her flip the power back on whenever."

Kash: "Russ!" Pointing at a large Morely statue outside the Tacos 'N More in the lobby.

Russ: "Well, we can't leave without the Big M now can we.."

Meanwhile on the other side of the room, an individual wearing a hooded jacket snatched up several small statues from a case before grabbing what looked to be a map stitched on a tapestry. Their face seemed distorted by cloaking tech.

Location: Generator Room, Ciar Tower.

Andrasta: "This is insane...it's like something is blocking me from getting things running. As in actively blocking me. The tech in the spider robot wasn't THAT advanced. Someone or something is in the system..and is fighting me..."

Location: Aurora Vale.

Oct and the Betrayer were battling through the streets, sending crowds fleeing. Several people however stood around gawking and attempting to record the fight on their aShines.

The Betrayer landed a strike that broke Oct's chainsword but in the process seemed to damage his own. Both men discarded their weapons and opted for hand to hand. Well, power armor against power armor. Unfortunately for Oct, the Betrayer's armor was much more durable.

Still, Oct wasn't willing to give up and through sheer force of will managed to break off a section of the Betrayer's armor, sending him stumbling backwards. The Betrayer noticed a small light on his communication device go off.

Betrayer: "As much as I'd enjoy staying here and tearing you apart like the others, I have prior engagements."

Oct: "The others?"

The Betrayer smirked and turned, chucking an explosive device into one of the small stores near where they had been fighting. A timer started to tick down as Oct noticed the people inside.

Oct had no choice but to disengage from the fight, rushing into the store and grabbing the civilians. He was barely able to get everyone out and shield them as the explosive went off. When he was finally able to look around, the Betrayer was nowhere to be found.

Location: Roof, Ciar Tower.

Antoine burst through the doorway and on to the roof. He hadn't however expected his sister to be waiting for him. Mel tripped him and in one swift motion managed to grab the rolled-up painting from his pack.

Mel: "Give it up Antoine, we can talk about this back home.."

King: "So..many stairs.."

Antoine: "You're out of shape old man. As for that, are you going to turn me in sister?"

Mel: "Of course not, I'm just going to return this.."

Antoine: "Fine by me, that one wasn't even my favorite.."

Mel: "Antoine, what did you do.."

Antoine smiled and backed up to the edge of the roof before giving a salute and stepping off. A moment later he was seen gliding down on a pair of what looked like moth wings.

King: "I need to upgrade my costume.."

Mel: "Come on, we have to drop this off and get out of here.."

Location: Upper floors, Ciar Tower.

Van: "I KNEW you two idiots were going to be here!"

Van had managed to corner Kash and Russ on one of the upper floors after he spotted the two lugging a Morely statue up the stairs.

Russ: "Maybe, but I KNEW that you KNEW we were going to be here, and I was already prepared!"

Kash: "You were?"

Russ: "Yes, now do the thing!"

Kash and Russ placed the Morely statue down. Kash heads over to the window that Mel broke earlier and shoots a zipline of sorts out, attaching it to another building.

Van: "You think I'm just going to stand here and let you go?"

Russ: "Of course not.." Pressing a button on his aShine which activated firebombs planted in various trashcans through the building.

"Do it."

Something in the Ciar Tower system activated and switched the power back on which automatically activated the fire suppression system and sprinklers.

Van: "That's it?"

Kash: "Nope! Wanna see a trick?" Kash's power activated, and he was able to manipulate the water pouring down, sending it in a burst that knocked Van backwards and down the stairs on a sort of twisted water slide.

Kash and Russ attached the Morely statue to the zipline and rode with it till they were across the train tracks. Just in time to detach and land on top of one of the cargo cars. A short distance away they were met by what seemed to be an unmanned helicopter which lowered cables down. Kash, Russ, and the Morely statue were pulled up and the chopper flew off into the distance.

Location: Lower Docks.

The hooded individual made his way down to where one of the drop points were indicated on his aShine. He pulled his hood down and deactivated the cloaking device before dropping the bag of stolen goods into the container.

A small screen popped up.

"Well done, now tell us...what do you desire?"

Sunil reached down and typed out an answer...

Location: Aurora Vale.

Lydia: "Good evening Apricus. Lydia Reliford here with Apricus News. As you know by now, a series of events have taken place during the art exhibit which resulted in severe property damage and several stolen works of art. Luckily one of the more valuable paintings was recovered and left in the lobby."

"Unfortunately, several things are still missing which may result in even more strained relationships with neighboring kingdoms. Authorities will be out in full force and the council has promised to locate every single missing work of art no matter how small."

"If you have any information at all you are urged to contact the PWSB, or the Apricus PD. Remember, every bit of information helps."

Static

"WaR iS InEvItAbLe"

Static

Lydia: "For ongoing coverage, please visit the Apricus News website. We'll be sure to update you with any breaking news. Have a good night, everyone."

Static

Static

"Coming up next, your local weather forecast."