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Then you'll enjoy the Culao family's dynamics 
Hmm... I really didn't think of that. LOL I suppose you're right and she would act that way. ^^
Yep, I'm planning to write a snippet of what happens to the group in the next book so you'll know what they've been doing after this mission.
---------- Post added February 11, 2014 at 07:06 PM ---------- Previous post was January 23, 2014 at 06:38 AM ----------
Wow, it's has been a little over a year since I started writing The Enigma.
Anyway, I realized that I got the year wrong for a few chapter so
I'm too lazy to fix it here and in my blog, but it has been fixed for the final version.
Chapter 20: Revolt
Hmm... I really didn't think of that. LOL I suppose you're right and she would act that way. ^^
Yep, I'm planning to write a snippet of what happens to the group in the next book so you'll know what they've been doing after this mission.
---------- Post added February 11, 2014 at 07:06 PM ---------- Previous post was January 23, 2014 at 06:38 AM ----------
Wow, it's has been a little over a year since I started writing The Enigma.
Anyway, I realized that I got the year wrong for a few chapter so
I'm too lazy to fix it here and in my blog, but it has been fixed for the final version.Chapter 20: Revolt
“What is the meaning of this!?” The Kasama glanced up from the table to find a very vivid Kahlin glaring at him. They were currently in the king’s private quarters, looking at the scattered papers on the table. There was a map of Soleri to determine the best strategy to crush the rebels as well as reports on their current situations. The crown of Ishara lay on top of the pile that was already read.
He looked at Leomas sweetly. “It appears that your brother is launching an attack on you.”
The Kahlin scowled. “I know that! But how was it possible that he and his army were able to appear here out of thin air like that? You promised me that I didn’t need to worry about him because I’m the Immortal King reincarnate!”
“And you won’t, Kahlin Hessin,” he reassured him. “Based on the reports, your men outnumber his. By the time we’re finished talking, Theann’s army would be defeated, and your brother captured. Everything is going smoothly.”
Leomas looked at him doubtfully but nodded. “You’re right. I shouldn’t worry. Theann was always jealous of me and would do anything to seize the throne.”
“Of course, he would. I did warn you about him, didn’t I?” The Kamasa smiled. Ever since he managed to “convince” the ruler of Ishara, he was able to run things without anyone trying to undermine him. It was really nice to have a powerful man under his thumb.
“And for that, I’m grateful,” the Kahlin said as he sat down next to him and offered him a glass of red wine. When I see that little bastard, I’m going t-”
All of a sudden, the door slammed opened and a servant staggered into the room. “Your Majesty, I have terrible news!” he gasped, holding onto the door knob for support. “Your army is being overwhelmed by the enemy!”
“WHAT!?” Leomas stood up with a start while the Kasama continued to sit there, sipping his glass. “But how?”
“I-I-I’m not sure, my lord,” the servant stammered. “According to General Farid’s messenger, they were engaging the enemy when another half appeared right behind them and ambushed them. They’re surrounded!”
Leomas sank back down in disbelief. “Impossible! How could they get around my army without being detected? I have all of the secret passageways monitored!”
To make things worse, an explosion was soon heard somewhere in the castle. “The enemy is in the castle!” someone screamed as another explosion was heard.
“If they’re here, then…” The Kahlin’s eyes widened when he realized what it meant. “If Theann is so eager to get the throne, then he would have to pry it away from my dead hands! Get the royal guards and rest of the soldiers who are still here. Tell them to hunt those intruders and kill them on the spot. Spare my brother though; I want to personally execute him myself.”
The Kasama gulped the rest of his wine and stood up. It seemed that his new tool was no longer beneficial to him. What a pity. He rather enjoyed this luxurious life. “I better leave you alone so you can concentrate on the battle,” he said, patting Leomas’s shoulder as he walked away. The young man nodded absentmindedly as he stared at his crown, which glistened in the sunlight.
Smiling, he walked down the hall, making sure to avoid the area where the fighting seemed to take place. Along the way, he bumped into Xyrem, who was waiting for him. “Is everything in order?” His bodyguard nodded. “Good. Then find Ithani and tell her that we have overstayed our welcome.”
He looked at Leomas sweetly. “It appears that your brother is launching an attack on you.”
The Kahlin scowled. “I know that! But how was it possible that he and his army were able to appear here out of thin air like that? You promised me that I didn’t need to worry about him because I’m the Immortal King reincarnate!”
“And you won’t, Kahlin Hessin,” he reassured him. “Based on the reports, your men outnumber his. By the time we’re finished talking, Theann’s army would be defeated, and your brother captured. Everything is going smoothly.”
Leomas looked at him doubtfully but nodded. “You’re right. I shouldn’t worry. Theann was always jealous of me and would do anything to seize the throne.”
“Of course, he would. I did warn you about him, didn’t I?” The Kamasa smiled. Ever since he managed to “convince” the ruler of Ishara, he was able to run things without anyone trying to undermine him. It was really nice to have a powerful man under his thumb.
“And for that, I’m grateful,” the Kahlin said as he sat down next to him and offered him a glass of red wine. When I see that little bastard, I’m going t-”
All of a sudden, the door slammed opened and a servant staggered into the room. “Your Majesty, I have terrible news!” he gasped, holding onto the door knob for support. “Your army is being overwhelmed by the enemy!”
“WHAT!?” Leomas stood up with a start while the Kasama continued to sit there, sipping his glass. “But how?”
“I-I-I’m not sure, my lord,” the servant stammered. “According to General Farid’s messenger, they were engaging the enemy when another half appeared right behind them and ambushed them. They’re surrounded!”
Leomas sank back down in disbelief. “Impossible! How could they get around my army without being detected? I have all of the secret passageways monitored!”
To make things worse, an explosion was soon heard somewhere in the castle. “The enemy is in the castle!” someone screamed as another explosion was heard.
“If they’re here, then…” The Kahlin’s eyes widened when he realized what it meant. “If Theann is so eager to get the throne, then he would have to pry it away from my dead hands! Get the royal guards and rest of the soldiers who are still here. Tell them to hunt those intruders and kill them on the spot. Spare my brother though; I want to personally execute him myself.”
The Kasama gulped the rest of his wine and stood up. It seemed that his new tool was no longer beneficial to him. What a pity. He rather enjoyed this luxurious life. “I better leave you alone so you can concentrate on the battle,” he said, patting Leomas’s shoulder as he walked away. The young man nodded absentmindedly as he stared at his crown, which glistened in the sunlight.
Smiling, he walked down the hall, making sure to avoid the area where the fighting seemed to take place. Along the way, he bumped into Xyrem, who was waiting for him. “Is everything in order?” His bodyguard nodded. “Good. Then find Ithani and tell her that we have overstayed our welcome.”
Tristé dodged another fireball before she swung her whip at the offending Isharan who launched the attack on her. It wrapped around the man’s arm so she pulled him forward. “I think you deserve a little break,” she told him as she punched him in the face. As he collapsed to the ground, she looked around for her next opponent. All around her was chaos. Men fought against each other as they tried to defend or breach the palace. It was hard to discern between friend or foe.
As she looked to her right, she noticed that Kahzin Theann seemed to be holding his own as he clashed swords with one of his brother’s men. Even though the prince seemed too gentle to be in battle, he was a capable swordsman. She should figure not to make any assumptions. As she was about to look away, something caught her eyes. A soldier was trying to sneak up behind the young prince and attack him. Alarmed, she immediately scrambled over to his location and swung her weapon. Luckily she managed to bind his legs, causing the man to topple over. At the same time, Theann managed to defeat his opponent. When he heard the ambusher grunt, he turned around and saw what happened. He quickly kicked the man, rendering him unconscious, and looked at her. “Thanks.”
“No problem,” she replied. “Now are we…”
Before she could even finish her question, a boulder almost fell on top of them. They turned to see a new squad of soldiers had arrived. They didn’t give Tristé or the others any time to attack because they launched another elemental attacks at them. “Hide behind the pillar!” Theann ordered as he ducked behind one. The Duermon quickly followed suit; she was just in time because she just barely dodged getting hit by a shrapnel. A few weren’t as lucky though; their bodies lying on the ground, crushed underneath a pile of rubbles.
She cussed as another guard launched another earth attack at them. She flinched as pieces of the pillar where she was hiding behind shattered. Dammit, those elemental stones were annoying! Too bad she couldn’t use her demonic fire against them; otherwise, it would make this battle a whole lot easier. But then causing mass panic wouldn’t be a good thing, would it? Looking across from her, she noticed that Theann and seven of his soldiers were having trouble as well. She peered out and quickly counted around thirty men attacking them – a little extreme, in her opinion, to get one man. At this rate, they’re going to get crushed.
“Tell me why we’re doing this again!?” she screamed over the loud ruckus. Even though he had explained to her why, she still believed it would be easier if Hessin just opened a portal to the throne room instead of sending them on the other side of the palace.
“It’s because we’re going to lure most of the guards over here! Since my brother is going after me, I’m going to be used as bait. Once we get majority over here, Hessin is going to open another portal to the throne room, where I’ll confront Leomas without worrying about anyone interrupting us,” he shouted, repeating what he said before.
“I guess that makes sense,” she shouted back, “but where the hell is he?”
A sudden burst of bright light answered her question as their attackers screamed out in surprise. Since she didn’t expect it, Tristé blinked her eyes rapidly until they were back to normal. Theann was doing the same thing as well. She could hear Hessin calling out, “It’s safe to come out now.”
Stumbling out of her hiding place, she looked around to see their attackers lying unconscious on the floor. Behind them, Hessin, Kian, and ten soldiers stood, facing them. Istra flew around the room, making sure that there weren’t anyone lurking in the shadows. Rubbing her eyes, she griped, “Dammit, next time warn us, why don’t you?”
“My apologies,” Hessin replied apologetically. “I didn’t want to alert them that we were behind them.”
“Whatever.” She turned to the Kahzin. “So how many times are we going to do this?”
Glancing at the unconscious men, Theann answered, “As many times as it takes. We’ve only taken down a quarter of the opposing forces, so we have a long way to go. How is Sarina doing, Kian?”
“According to Thiya, she and her group are doing well. They’re having a little difficulty reaching the dungeon but it’s manageable,” Armita’s brother informed him.
All of sudden, Istra swooped down and warned, “They’re coming.” Sure enough, they could hear shouting, which was getting louder and louder. Hessin quickly opened a portal so he and the others could hide to get ready for another sneak attack.
As they got into position, Theann smiled at her as he withdrew his sword. “Ready for round four?”
She scowled at him as she got her whip ready. Eyeing warily at the approaching royal guards, she retorted, “Do I have a choice?”
As she looked to her right, she noticed that Kahzin Theann seemed to be holding his own as he clashed swords with one of his brother’s men. Even though the prince seemed too gentle to be in battle, he was a capable swordsman. She should figure not to make any assumptions. As she was about to look away, something caught her eyes. A soldier was trying to sneak up behind the young prince and attack him. Alarmed, she immediately scrambled over to his location and swung her weapon. Luckily she managed to bind his legs, causing the man to topple over. At the same time, Theann managed to defeat his opponent. When he heard the ambusher grunt, he turned around and saw what happened. He quickly kicked the man, rendering him unconscious, and looked at her. “Thanks.”
“No problem,” she replied. “Now are we…”
Before she could even finish her question, a boulder almost fell on top of them. They turned to see a new squad of soldiers had arrived. They didn’t give Tristé or the others any time to attack because they launched another elemental attacks at them. “Hide behind the pillar!” Theann ordered as he ducked behind one. The Duermon quickly followed suit; she was just in time because she just barely dodged getting hit by a shrapnel. A few weren’t as lucky though; their bodies lying on the ground, crushed underneath a pile of rubbles.
She cussed as another guard launched another earth attack at them. She flinched as pieces of the pillar where she was hiding behind shattered. Dammit, those elemental stones were annoying! Too bad she couldn’t use her demonic fire against them; otherwise, it would make this battle a whole lot easier. But then causing mass panic wouldn’t be a good thing, would it? Looking across from her, she noticed that Theann and seven of his soldiers were having trouble as well. She peered out and quickly counted around thirty men attacking them – a little extreme, in her opinion, to get one man. At this rate, they’re going to get crushed.
“Tell me why we’re doing this again!?” she screamed over the loud ruckus. Even though he had explained to her why, she still believed it would be easier if Hessin just opened a portal to the throne room instead of sending them on the other side of the palace.
“It’s because we’re going to lure most of the guards over here! Since my brother is going after me, I’m going to be used as bait. Once we get majority over here, Hessin is going to open another portal to the throne room, where I’ll confront Leomas without worrying about anyone interrupting us,” he shouted, repeating what he said before.
“I guess that makes sense,” she shouted back, “but where the hell is he?”
A sudden burst of bright light answered her question as their attackers screamed out in surprise. Since she didn’t expect it, Tristé blinked her eyes rapidly until they were back to normal. Theann was doing the same thing as well. She could hear Hessin calling out, “It’s safe to come out now.”
Stumbling out of her hiding place, she looked around to see their attackers lying unconscious on the floor. Behind them, Hessin, Kian, and ten soldiers stood, facing them. Istra flew around the room, making sure that there weren’t anyone lurking in the shadows. Rubbing her eyes, she griped, “Dammit, next time warn us, why don’t you?”
“My apologies,” Hessin replied apologetically. “I didn’t want to alert them that we were behind them.”
“Whatever.” She turned to the Kahzin. “So how many times are we going to do this?”
Glancing at the unconscious men, Theann answered, “As many times as it takes. We’ve only taken down a quarter of the opposing forces, so we have a long way to go. How is Sarina doing, Kian?”
“According to Thiya, she and her group are doing well. They’re having a little difficulty reaching the dungeon but it’s manageable,” Armita’s brother informed him.
All of sudden, Istra swooped down and warned, “They’re coming.” Sure enough, they could hear shouting, which was getting louder and louder. Hessin quickly opened a portal so he and the others could hide to get ready for another sneak attack.
As they got into position, Theann smiled at her as he withdrew his sword. “Ready for round four?”
She scowled at him as she got her whip ready. Eyeing warily at the approaching royal guards, she retorted, “Do I have a choice?”
“Quickly, this way!” Chiara said, escorting a group of frightened servants into a room. They nodded and immediately entered the room, which was full of other servants and innocent bystanders. While she ushered them in, Armita and Owain were the lookouts, keeping watch on either side of the hallways for any trouble. Talic was with her as he guarded the door and watched the people go in. Meanwhile Cuzo walked back and forth between them, sniffing the air; his ears stood up, alert and focused. In the distance, they could hear the sounds of explosions. Hopefully Tristé and the others were all right.
As soon as the last person went inside the room, Talic peeked into the room and asked, “Is everyone all right?” After getting an affirmation, he continued, “I’m going to close the door. Once I do, I want you to immediately lock it. No matter what, stay here until the battle is over. Understand?”
After they heard the lock clicked, Chiara and Talic motioned the others, who fell back and joined them. “Okay, we’re finished on this floor. Let’s go to the next one,” Talic determined as they headed up the stairs.
Since Kahzin Theann didn’t want any of them involved in the combat, he requested that they find any civilians and lead them to an area far away from the fighting. That way the Bartheomos members wouldn’t break their vow of getting involved in a country’s affairs, and tension won’t built between Kreesia and Ishara. Nevertheless, they still had to be cautious. Kahlin Leomas had banned Bartheomos from the country after all so if any of the guards spotted them, they’re in trouble.
Chiara gripped her wand tightly as Armita peeked around the corner before she motioned the coast was clear. They quickly hurried down the hall and hid whenever they heard footsteps. If they belonged to a servant or another civilian, they would reveal themselves as Bartheomos members and quickly led them to safety. If any soldiers went by, they would stay hidden though they were almost caught a few times. Luckily Chiara just cast a sleeping spell on them though she did flub a few words due to nerves so the others had to fight the guards to knock them unconscious.
As they continued leading the civilians to safety, the witch felt uneasy. She would have thought they would facing some more difficulty, but they weren’t having any problem at all. It was as if this was easy. Too easy. She voiced her concerns to Owain, who dismissed her fears. “It just means that Theann’s plan is working like a charm,” he reassured her as they ushered a group to a room.
“I guess so,” she said dubiously, “but we haven’t encountered any Velscendus members yet. Didn’t Theann say that the palace was crawling with them? I thought we would bump into one of them by now, but we haven’t so far. So where are they?”
He opened his mouth to say something but closed it again. Chiara noted that he seemed troubled; most likely he didn’t think about that fact until she mentioned it. Feeling more anxious, she looked around the hall and prayed that they weren’t running into a trap.
As soon as the last person went inside the room, Talic peeked into the room and asked, “Is everyone all right?” After getting an affirmation, he continued, “I’m going to close the door. Once I do, I want you to immediately lock it. No matter what, stay here until the battle is over. Understand?”
After they heard the lock clicked, Chiara and Talic motioned the others, who fell back and joined them. “Okay, we’re finished on this floor. Let’s go to the next one,” Talic determined as they headed up the stairs.
Since Kahzin Theann didn’t want any of them involved in the combat, he requested that they find any civilians and lead them to an area far away from the fighting. That way the Bartheomos members wouldn’t break their vow of getting involved in a country’s affairs, and tension won’t built between Kreesia and Ishara. Nevertheless, they still had to be cautious. Kahlin Leomas had banned Bartheomos from the country after all so if any of the guards spotted them, they’re in trouble.
Chiara gripped her wand tightly as Armita peeked around the corner before she motioned the coast was clear. They quickly hurried down the hall and hid whenever they heard footsteps. If they belonged to a servant or another civilian, they would reveal themselves as Bartheomos members and quickly led them to safety. If any soldiers went by, they would stay hidden though they were almost caught a few times. Luckily Chiara just cast a sleeping spell on them though she did flub a few words due to nerves so the others had to fight the guards to knock them unconscious.
As they continued leading the civilians to safety, the witch felt uneasy. She would have thought they would facing some more difficulty, but they weren’t having any problem at all. It was as if this was easy. Too easy. She voiced her concerns to Owain, who dismissed her fears. “It just means that Theann’s plan is working like a charm,” he reassured her as they ushered a group to a room.
“I guess so,” she said dubiously, “but we haven’t encountered any Velscendus members yet. Didn’t Theann say that the palace was crawling with them? I thought we would bump into one of them by now, but we haven’t so far. So where are they?”
He opened his mouth to say something but closed it again. Chiara noted that he seemed troubled; most likely he didn’t think about that fact until she mentioned it. Feeling more anxious, she looked around the hall and prayed that they weren’t running into a trap.
After the umpteenth time, Theann looked at the unconscious men around him and announced, “I think that’s good enough.”
“You think?” Tristé replied sarcastically, maneuvering around the bodies on the ground. She estimated that there was more than hundred soldiers lying underneath her feet. “Now can we head to the throne room?”
He nodded. Turning to Kian, he said, “It’s time for me to confront my brother. Kian, gather the men and tell them to get ready.”
“Understood, my lord,” Kian said, bowing his head and placing his hand on his chest, before he headed over to his men and directed them.
While that was happening, the Kahzin told Hessin, “As soon as everyone’s ready, I want you to create two gateways; one in the throne room and one outside the throne room. There would be soldiers standing guard there so Kian and the others will keep them occupied while we meet Leomas.”
The Immortal King nodded. “I’ll send Istra ahead so we can determine how many guards are there.” He gestured to the water spirit, who transformed into a bird and departed straight away.
“Thank you.” He looked back at her and continued, “You better get ready as well. Knowing my brother, he’ll have a few of his Royal Guards lurking inside the throne room so be on the lookout for them.”
“And you better watch out for your brother. If he’s possessed as I suspected, he’ll be able to use demonic powers,” she warned him. “Remember: he’s not your brother at the moment so beware because he would try to toy with your emotions.”
“I know,” he said softly and walked away. She felt pity for the young prince. Imagine having to fight against your brother, whom you loved so dearly. That was hard enough as it was, but the most difficult part was that he despised him all because someone influenced him to believe that way. Tristé couldn’t fathom how much pain that Theann was going through right now, and she didn’t want to experience it. If she had to fight against her emperor or even her new friends, she didn’t know what she would do in that situation.
Just then something flew past her, interrupting her thoughts. “There are around thirty men guarding the door to the throne room. Among them, I counted eight summoners so be careful,” Istra informed them. Her gentle voice echoed through the empty hall as she fluttered all around them.
Theann scowled. “We need to get rid of them first, but their summons will protect them at all cost so the upcoming battle will be more difficult. And are there any in the throne room?”
She shook her head. “I didn’t see anyone else but Leomas unless they’re hiding somewhere. He’s just sitting on the throne.”
“Then he’s expecting us.” The Kahzin turned to his ancestor. “Kian is going to have more trouble than us so he’ll need the most help.”
“I agree,” Hessin said. “Istra, I want you to stay with Kian and the others. Support them whatever possible.”
“I will,” she promised, “and don’t do anything foolish either.” Her master just smiled, which caused Tristé to worry a little bit. Even though Hessin was very helpful, he was headstrong. But then, he’s immortal so he could be reckless. She, on the other hand, couldn’t afford that luxury. After all, she promised Owain that she would take good care of his sister’s body.
“Preparations are finished, my lord,” Kian declared, walking toward them.
The young prince nodded. “Good. Yuveas, open the portal.” As his ancestor prepared to open the gateway, he reminded the others, “Don’t forget that we’re going to incapacitate them. I want to minimize any bloodshed as much as possible. Now let’s take back our home from those who intends on destroying it!”
They cheered and as soon as the portal was opened completely, charged ahead. Peeking over the soldiers, Tristé could see a row of soldiers blocking their way; they were tensed and alert as they stoically guarded the throne room. Among them were two fire spirits, a water spirit, four wind spirits, and an earth spirit. They seemed prepared for anything – except for the fact that a group of soldier suddenly appearing right in front of them. They shouted in surprise, but they recovered quickly. One of the fire summoners ordered his spirit to attack; she obeyed and quickly sent a wave of flame at the first row of Theann’s supporters. Screaming, they crumbled on the floor in pain. The stench of burnt flesh filled Tristé’s nose, and she wanted to gag. This was as bad as or even worse than any battle she witnessed in any Succession Wars.
“Istra, heal them!” Hessin ordered so the water spirit immediately went through the gateway and casted a healing spell. However, just as she finished casting the spell, she was attacked by an earth spirit. She dodged a rock launched at her and charged at her opponent. Meanwhile, Kian and three of his men focused their attacks on a summoner, who sent her water spirit to repel them. Unfortunately, Tristé didn’t know what happened next because the gateway shrank and closed. Before the needle ring could fall onto the sandy marble floor, Hessin grabbed it and began the process again.
While they were waiting, a concerned Tristé turned to Theann. “Are you sure Kian and the others will be all right?” she asked. She could still smell that horrid stench and gripped her whip tighter.
“I’m sure they’ll be fine. I have complete trust in them. Kian is one of the best warriors in Ishara after all,” he replied with a reassuring smile. Nevertheless she still worried. True, Kian did have Istra with him, but it was one elemental spirit against eight spirits.
“Ready whenever you are,” Hessin said, holding the blood-encrusted ring.
Unsheathing his sword, Theann took a deep breath and ordered, “Do it.” His ancestor tossed the needle ring into the air, revealing the throne room on the other side. Hessin had positioned them so that they would come out on the right bottom corner without being seen. They entered the throne room, careful not to make a sound. But then, it wasn’t really necessary. The sound of clashing swords and explosion could be heard on the other side of the room; at the same time, the belligerent cries of the Quentis birds broke the silence. Tristé couldn’t imagine trying to think with that racket.
As soon as Hessin got through the gateway, he quickly shrank it and put the needle ring into his pocket. Then they crept quietly and hid behind the column. Leomas must have expected them because he spoke, “I know you’re there so you might as well show yourself, Theann.”
“You think?” Tristé replied sarcastically, maneuvering around the bodies on the ground. She estimated that there was more than hundred soldiers lying underneath her feet. “Now can we head to the throne room?”
He nodded. Turning to Kian, he said, “It’s time for me to confront my brother. Kian, gather the men and tell them to get ready.”
“Understood, my lord,” Kian said, bowing his head and placing his hand on his chest, before he headed over to his men and directed them.
While that was happening, the Kahzin told Hessin, “As soon as everyone’s ready, I want you to create two gateways; one in the throne room and one outside the throne room. There would be soldiers standing guard there so Kian and the others will keep them occupied while we meet Leomas.”
The Immortal King nodded. “I’ll send Istra ahead so we can determine how many guards are there.” He gestured to the water spirit, who transformed into a bird and departed straight away.
“Thank you.” He looked back at her and continued, “You better get ready as well. Knowing my brother, he’ll have a few of his Royal Guards lurking inside the throne room so be on the lookout for them.”
“And you better watch out for your brother. If he’s possessed as I suspected, he’ll be able to use demonic powers,” she warned him. “Remember: he’s not your brother at the moment so beware because he would try to toy with your emotions.”
“I know,” he said softly and walked away. She felt pity for the young prince. Imagine having to fight against your brother, whom you loved so dearly. That was hard enough as it was, but the most difficult part was that he despised him all because someone influenced him to believe that way. Tristé couldn’t fathom how much pain that Theann was going through right now, and she didn’t want to experience it. If she had to fight against her emperor or even her new friends, she didn’t know what she would do in that situation.
Just then something flew past her, interrupting her thoughts. “There are around thirty men guarding the door to the throne room. Among them, I counted eight summoners so be careful,” Istra informed them. Her gentle voice echoed through the empty hall as she fluttered all around them.
Theann scowled. “We need to get rid of them first, but their summons will protect them at all cost so the upcoming battle will be more difficult. And are there any in the throne room?”
She shook her head. “I didn’t see anyone else but Leomas unless they’re hiding somewhere. He’s just sitting on the throne.”
“Then he’s expecting us.” The Kahzin turned to his ancestor. “Kian is going to have more trouble than us so he’ll need the most help.”
“I agree,” Hessin said. “Istra, I want you to stay with Kian and the others. Support them whatever possible.”
“I will,” she promised, “and don’t do anything foolish either.” Her master just smiled, which caused Tristé to worry a little bit. Even though Hessin was very helpful, he was headstrong. But then, he’s immortal so he could be reckless. She, on the other hand, couldn’t afford that luxury. After all, she promised Owain that she would take good care of his sister’s body.
“Preparations are finished, my lord,” Kian declared, walking toward them.
The young prince nodded. “Good. Yuveas, open the portal.” As his ancestor prepared to open the gateway, he reminded the others, “Don’t forget that we’re going to incapacitate them. I want to minimize any bloodshed as much as possible. Now let’s take back our home from those who intends on destroying it!”
They cheered and as soon as the portal was opened completely, charged ahead. Peeking over the soldiers, Tristé could see a row of soldiers blocking their way; they were tensed and alert as they stoically guarded the throne room. Among them were two fire spirits, a water spirit, four wind spirits, and an earth spirit. They seemed prepared for anything – except for the fact that a group of soldier suddenly appearing right in front of them. They shouted in surprise, but they recovered quickly. One of the fire summoners ordered his spirit to attack; she obeyed and quickly sent a wave of flame at the first row of Theann’s supporters. Screaming, they crumbled on the floor in pain. The stench of burnt flesh filled Tristé’s nose, and she wanted to gag. This was as bad as or even worse than any battle she witnessed in any Succession Wars.
“Istra, heal them!” Hessin ordered so the water spirit immediately went through the gateway and casted a healing spell. However, just as she finished casting the spell, she was attacked by an earth spirit. She dodged a rock launched at her and charged at her opponent. Meanwhile, Kian and three of his men focused their attacks on a summoner, who sent her water spirit to repel them. Unfortunately, Tristé didn’t know what happened next because the gateway shrank and closed. Before the needle ring could fall onto the sandy marble floor, Hessin grabbed it and began the process again.
While they were waiting, a concerned Tristé turned to Theann. “Are you sure Kian and the others will be all right?” she asked. She could still smell that horrid stench and gripped her whip tighter.
“I’m sure they’ll be fine. I have complete trust in them. Kian is one of the best warriors in Ishara after all,” he replied with a reassuring smile. Nevertheless she still worried. True, Kian did have Istra with him, but it was one elemental spirit against eight spirits.
“Ready whenever you are,” Hessin said, holding the blood-encrusted ring.
Unsheathing his sword, Theann took a deep breath and ordered, “Do it.” His ancestor tossed the needle ring into the air, revealing the throne room on the other side. Hessin had positioned them so that they would come out on the right bottom corner without being seen. They entered the throne room, careful not to make a sound. But then, it wasn’t really necessary. The sound of clashing swords and explosion could be heard on the other side of the room; at the same time, the belligerent cries of the Quentis birds broke the silence. Tristé couldn’t imagine trying to think with that racket.
As soon as Hessin got through the gateway, he quickly shrank it and put the needle ring into his pocket. Then they crept quietly and hid behind the column. Leomas must have expected them because he spoke, “I know you’re there so you might as well show yourself, Theann.”
“Don’t be alarmed! I’m a member of Bartheomos, and I’m here to help. I’m going to lead you to a safe place so follow me,” Talic reassured three frightened servants, huddling together, as he showed them his badge. Nodding, they hurriedly stood up and followed him. As he escorted them down the hall, he could hear the sounds of battle close by. They were currently on the same floor as the throne room, which meant that there were more soldiers in the vicinity so they have to tread carefully. After hearing another explosion, he wondered if Tristé and the others were all right.
Nevertheless, he needed to focus on the task at hand. In one of the intersections, he joined up with Owain, who seemed to be leading a group of nobles. “Any trouble?” the Lycian asked as they sprinted side-by-side. Talic shook his head. “That’s good to hear. Come on, Armita and Chiara are waiting for us.”
As they headed back to the women, they found some more civilians and added them to the group. At first, they sprinted down in silence until Owain finally spoke, “You know, I think Chiara’s hunch might be right. We haven’t encounter any Velscendus members so far. Do you think they’re hiding somewhere?”
“Maybe,” Talic replied, looking back to make sure that everyone was still together. “I highly doubt they fled because they didn’t have time to escape so they are probably still lurking around.”
“Then we better be careful,” Owain agreed and lowered his voice. “Hopefully Ithani isn’t possessed. I don’t know what Armita would do if she is.”
The Eireneridan thought for a moment. Before they met Tristé, they would have thought that the soul of the possessed human would be gone forever, but after learning the truth, they realized that they had a chance. Unfortunately they faced a problem. While Tristé had agreed to relinquish her hold on Adalynn Tolbert once she finished her mission, the Possessor Duermon possessing Ithani wouldn’t likely be so willing especially if she is a Velscendus member. He answered, “I’m sure we’ll find a way to free Ithani if she is. Knowing Armita, she won’t give up until she finds a way.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” They continued in silence until they reached their destination. When Armita saw him coming, she looked relieved; she was concerned that he wouldn’t be able to handle escorting the civilians due to his health.
“Quickly, come inside!” she encouraged as the Isharan citizens hurried past her and into the room. As soon as the last person came inside, they gave them the same spiel (“Lock the door and stay in the room until it is safe”) and shut the door. They quickly dashed over to a corner to hide and take a breather. No sooner did they do that when more soldiers ran past them as they headed over to the throne room.
After a brief moment of silence, Chiara spoke up. “Now what?”
“I think we got the last group so we need to wait until the battle is over,” Talic replied and rubbed his chin in deep thought. “Too bad we can’t help out or otherwise…”
All of a sudden, Armita jerked her head up. “Ithani!” she shouted. Startled, Talic looked at where she was staring but only saw long, black hair disappearing around the corner. Before anyone could stop her, Armita sprinted after her.
“Armita, wait!” Owain yelled, but she didn’t hear them as she turned the corner. Cussing, Talic threw caution to the wind and chased after her. He could hear footsteps following behind him, which meant that the others were giving chase as well. They hurried after Armita, who had a good head start. Talic could see the back of her, but she was getting farther and farther away. It didn’t help that he was slowing down due to the fact that he hadn’t fully recovered.
“Intruders!” a voice behind them shouted. Talic cursed underneath his breath as soon as he heard it. Halting, he turned around to see five Isharan soldiers standing behind them. Owain and Chiara drew out their weapons though they seemed unsure on what to do. On the other hand, Cuzo looked ready for battle.
“What should we do, Talic?” Owain asked worriedly. Talic looked back, but Armita was nowhere to be found.
“It looks like we have no choice,” he answered as he went into a fighting stance and faced their opponents.
Nevertheless, he needed to focus on the task at hand. In one of the intersections, he joined up with Owain, who seemed to be leading a group of nobles. “Any trouble?” the Lycian asked as they sprinted side-by-side. Talic shook his head. “That’s good to hear. Come on, Armita and Chiara are waiting for us.”
As they headed back to the women, they found some more civilians and added them to the group. At first, they sprinted down in silence until Owain finally spoke, “You know, I think Chiara’s hunch might be right. We haven’t encounter any Velscendus members so far. Do you think they’re hiding somewhere?”
“Maybe,” Talic replied, looking back to make sure that everyone was still together. “I highly doubt they fled because they didn’t have time to escape so they are probably still lurking around.”
“Then we better be careful,” Owain agreed and lowered his voice. “Hopefully Ithani isn’t possessed. I don’t know what Armita would do if she is.”
The Eireneridan thought for a moment. Before they met Tristé, they would have thought that the soul of the possessed human would be gone forever, but after learning the truth, they realized that they had a chance. Unfortunately they faced a problem. While Tristé had agreed to relinquish her hold on Adalynn Tolbert once she finished her mission, the Possessor Duermon possessing Ithani wouldn’t likely be so willing especially if she is a Velscendus member. He answered, “I’m sure we’ll find a way to free Ithani if she is. Knowing Armita, she won’t give up until she finds a way.”
“Yeah, you’re right.” They continued in silence until they reached their destination. When Armita saw him coming, she looked relieved; she was concerned that he wouldn’t be able to handle escorting the civilians due to his health.
“Quickly, come inside!” she encouraged as the Isharan citizens hurried past her and into the room. As soon as the last person came inside, they gave them the same spiel (“Lock the door and stay in the room until it is safe”) and shut the door. They quickly dashed over to a corner to hide and take a breather. No sooner did they do that when more soldiers ran past them as they headed over to the throne room.
After a brief moment of silence, Chiara spoke up. “Now what?”
“I think we got the last group so we need to wait until the battle is over,” Talic replied and rubbed his chin in deep thought. “Too bad we can’t help out or otherwise…”
All of a sudden, Armita jerked her head up. “Ithani!” she shouted. Startled, Talic looked at where she was staring but only saw long, black hair disappearing around the corner. Before anyone could stop her, Armita sprinted after her.
“Armita, wait!” Owain yelled, but she didn’t hear them as she turned the corner. Cussing, Talic threw caution to the wind and chased after her. He could hear footsteps following behind him, which meant that the others were giving chase as well. They hurried after Armita, who had a good head start. Talic could see the back of her, but she was getting farther and farther away. It didn’t help that he was slowing down due to the fact that he hadn’t fully recovered.
“Intruders!” a voice behind them shouted. Talic cursed underneath his breath as soon as he heard it. Halting, he turned around to see five Isharan soldiers standing behind them. Owain and Chiara drew out their weapons though they seemed unsure on what to do. On the other hand, Cuzo looked ready for battle.
“What should we do, Talic?” Owain asked worriedly. Talic looked back, but Armita was nowhere to be found.
“It looks like we have no choice,” he answered as he went into a fighting stance and faced their opponents.
“Looks like we don’t have a choice,” Theann muttered as he stepped out into the open. Tristé hastily chased after him and stood on his left while Hessin did the same on his right side, making sure that the young prince stood between them so they protected him. Before they went their separate ways, Tristé had promised Armita that she would make sure that Theann would be safe no matter what. As they walk down the aisle, the prince whispered from the corner of his mouth, “I want to talk to him by myself and hopefully convince him to surrender peacefully so don’t get involved just yet.”
Tristé and Hessin agreed in silence as they continued walking. During the time, the Duermon focused on studying the ruler of Ishara. The young prince depended on her to determine if his brother is possessed, and she intended on doing a good job. High above them, Kahlin Leomas sat on his throne and glowered down at them. A golden crown, which has points shaped like sunrays, sat upon his head and a golden scepter with all four elemental stones was on his lap.
Leomas was a handsome young man with his chiseled looks; he looked similar to his brother except that his face wasn’t as soft as Theann’s. He wore an olive green military coat with gold embroidery on the sleeves, black pants and boots as if to prepare himself for battle. However, she was surprised to discover that his eyes were lucid and focused. For a crazed king, he seemed rather… calm. It contrasted to the scene in the back of the throne.
The Quentis birds, now pitch black as night, banged furiously against their cage as they tried to break free. Some would land on the bars and poked their beaks through as they tried to bite anything within reach. Their shrieks gave Tristé goose bumps; it was as if they were thirsty for blood. That wasn’t the only thing that bothered her. Before she could warn Theann, Leomas spoke.
“Welcome back, brother. I figured that you would try to sneak into the throne room while keeping my guards occupied outside. I am a bit curious though on how you managed to do it,” he sneered once they stopped at the bottom of the steps. He had to speak in a loud voice to be heard over the cacophony behind him.
“Leomas…” Theann began, but his brother slammed his scepter hard on the ground, silencing him.
“My name is Hessin! I’m the Immortal King reincarnate, and don’t you forget it!” he shouted; his voice echoed through the room. Tristé looked over at Hessin from the corner of her eyes to see his reaction. However didn’t show any though he did stiffen a little bit. He was most likely irritated that the Kasama tarnished his name like that. The Kahlin didn’t notice because he was so focused on his brother. From his eyes, pure hatred for his brother could be seen. The Duermon couldn’t understand; how could Leomas suddenly despise his brother after all those years? How was the Kasama able to poison his mind?
Leomas closed his eyes and took a deep breath before he spoke again, “To be honest, I’m rather surprised that you didn’t bring your dog with you. “Instead, you brought in a lowly soldier and a girl. A mercenary, I presume. So where is he, hm? Is he out there fighting my men right now?”
“Kian is not a dog, Leomas,” the Kahzin replied softly.
His brother interrupted, “Hessin.”
Undeterred, Theann continued, “He’s our friend, and he only joined my side to help you, Leomas. We don’t want to hurt you. Don’t you remember how we used to play with each other when we’re little? You, me, Kian, Armita, and Ithani. I don’t know what lies the Kasama told you, but we do care about you. Please, brother, remember.”
“That was then, brother,” Leomas spat. “Back then, I was so naïve; I thought everyone was my friends, but I was so terribly wrong. First Armita abandoned me in my time of need. Then you and Kian were secretly plotting against me behind my back, waiting for my guard to drop down before taking the throne, which is rightfully mine. Luckily the Kasama showed me the truth before it’s too late. Now I can put an end to it.”
“You’re wrong! We didn’t plan on overthrowing you, Leomas,” he said, shaking his head. The Duermon had to admire how composed he was in spite of everything. If she were in his position, there would have been a shouting match. “You left us no choice but to do it once you send Ishara into a spiral.”
“Liar!”
“Don’t be foolish, brother! Look at the Quentis birds! They changed ever since you allowed the Kasama and his group refuge here! They are now black due to the chaos you’re allowing in the kingdom!”
An enraged Kahlin Leomas abruptly stood up and screamed, “They’re only black because you made them that way! I realize now how foolish I’ve been. At first I thought I could persuade you to see things my way, Theann, but I see that it’s futile. If you so desperately want the throne so badly, dear brother, then we should fight to the death for it.”
“Brother, please listen to me! You’re being unreasonable,” Theann yelled, but the Kahlin refused to listen. Instead he pointed his scepter at him and shot a gust of wind, knocking him to the ground. Alarmed, Hessin and Tristé rushed over to him and helped him to his feet.
“DON’T YOU DARE CALL ME THAT!” Leomas screamed as he pounded his scepter on the ground, causing a minor earthquake with the green elemental stone. His face now showed cold fury. In the background, the Quentis birds became more agitated and their clanging against the cage bars became louder. “I AM NO LONGER YOUR BROTHER! I AM THE REINCARNATION OF HESSIN, THE IMMORTAL KING! ALL WHO DEFY ME WILL FACE MY WRATH! FIGHT ME, THEANN! LET US SEE WHO THE BETTER RULER OF ISHARA IS!”
Groaning, Theann gingerly stood up and looked at his brother. He was about to stagger up the stairs to confront his brother, but Hessin stopped him. “Don’t push yourself,” the former Kahlin told him, but the young man shook his head.
“I need to save him,” he said, staring at Leomas sadly. “That isn’t the brother I know. He is possessed, I’m sure of it, and I’m going to free him even if it costs me my life.”
“Theann, wait!” Seizing the prince by the arm, Tristé breathed, “He’s not possessed.”
Tristé and Hessin agreed in silence as they continued walking. During the time, the Duermon focused on studying the ruler of Ishara. The young prince depended on her to determine if his brother is possessed, and she intended on doing a good job. High above them, Kahlin Leomas sat on his throne and glowered down at them. A golden crown, which has points shaped like sunrays, sat upon his head and a golden scepter with all four elemental stones was on his lap.
Leomas was a handsome young man with his chiseled looks; he looked similar to his brother except that his face wasn’t as soft as Theann’s. He wore an olive green military coat with gold embroidery on the sleeves, black pants and boots as if to prepare himself for battle. However, she was surprised to discover that his eyes were lucid and focused. For a crazed king, he seemed rather… calm. It contrasted to the scene in the back of the throne.
The Quentis birds, now pitch black as night, banged furiously against their cage as they tried to break free. Some would land on the bars and poked their beaks through as they tried to bite anything within reach. Their shrieks gave Tristé goose bumps; it was as if they were thirsty for blood. That wasn’t the only thing that bothered her. Before she could warn Theann, Leomas spoke.
“Welcome back, brother. I figured that you would try to sneak into the throne room while keeping my guards occupied outside. I am a bit curious though on how you managed to do it,” he sneered once they stopped at the bottom of the steps. He had to speak in a loud voice to be heard over the cacophony behind him.
“Leomas…” Theann began, but his brother slammed his scepter hard on the ground, silencing him.
“My name is Hessin! I’m the Immortal King reincarnate, and don’t you forget it!” he shouted; his voice echoed through the room. Tristé looked over at Hessin from the corner of her eyes to see his reaction. However didn’t show any though he did stiffen a little bit. He was most likely irritated that the Kasama tarnished his name like that. The Kahlin didn’t notice because he was so focused on his brother. From his eyes, pure hatred for his brother could be seen. The Duermon couldn’t understand; how could Leomas suddenly despise his brother after all those years? How was the Kasama able to poison his mind?
Leomas closed his eyes and took a deep breath before he spoke again, “To be honest, I’m rather surprised that you didn’t bring your dog with you. “Instead, you brought in a lowly soldier and a girl. A mercenary, I presume. So where is he, hm? Is he out there fighting my men right now?”
“Kian is not a dog, Leomas,” the Kahzin replied softly.
His brother interrupted, “Hessin.”
Undeterred, Theann continued, “He’s our friend, and he only joined my side to help you, Leomas. We don’t want to hurt you. Don’t you remember how we used to play with each other when we’re little? You, me, Kian, Armita, and Ithani. I don’t know what lies the Kasama told you, but we do care about you. Please, brother, remember.”
“That was then, brother,” Leomas spat. “Back then, I was so naïve; I thought everyone was my friends, but I was so terribly wrong. First Armita abandoned me in my time of need. Then you and Kian were secretly plotting against me behind my back, waiting for my guard to drop down before taking the throne, which is rightfully mine. Luckily the Kasama showed me the truth before it’s too late. Now I can put an end to it.”
“You’re wrong! We didn’t plan on overthrowing you, Leomas,” he said, shaking his head. The Duermon had to admire how composed he was in spite of everything. If she were in his position, there would have been a shouting match. “You left us no choice but to do it once you send Ishara into a spiral.”
“Liar!”
“Don’t be foolish, brother! Look at the Quentis birds! They changed ever since you allowed the Kasama and his group refuge here! They are now black due to the chaos you’re allowing in the kingdom!”
An enraged Kahlin Leomas abruptly stood up and screamed, “They’re only black because you made them that way! I realize now how foolish I’ve been. At first I thought I could persuade you to see things my way, Theann, but I see that it’s futile. If you so desperately want the throne so badly, dear brother, then we should fight to the death for it.”
“Brother, please listen to me! You’re being unreasonable,” Theann yelled, but the Kahlin refused to listen. Instead he pointed his scepter at him and shot a gust of wind, knocking him to the ground. Alarmed, Hessin and Tristé rushed over to him and helped him to his feet.
“DON’T YOU DARE CALL ME THAT!” Leomas screamed as he pounded his scepter on the ground, causing a minor earthquake with the green elemental stone. His face now showed cold fury. In the background, the Quentis birds became more agitated and their clanging against the cage bars became louder. “I AM NO LONGER YOUR BROTHER! I AM THE REINCARNATION OF HESSIN, THE IMMORTAL KING! ALL WHO DEFY ME WILL FACE MY WRATH! FIGHT ME, THEANN! LET US SEE WHO THE BETTER RULER OF ISHARA IS!”
Groaning, Theann gingerly stood up and looked at his brother. He was about to stagger up the stairs to confront his brother, but Hessin stopped him. “Don’t push yourself,” the former Kahlin told him, but the young man shook his head.
“I need to save him,” he said, staring at Leomas sadly. “That isn’t the brother I know. He is possessed, I’m sure of it, and I’m going to free him even if it costs me my life.”
“Theann, wait!” Seizing the prince by the arm, Tristé breathed, “He’s not possessed.”
“Flutius maxime blu. Meudis vertus juv,” Chiara chanted as she moved her wand in a circular motion. Soon a mudslide appeared, covering the Isharan soldiers’ legs and slowing down their movement. Then it was Owain and Talic’s turns to strike. They charged at the immobile men and attack. The former used his bow and knocked his opponent on the head while the latter rammed his quarterstaff into a soldier’ stomach.
Meanwhile Cuzo lashed onto a soldier who was about to use an elemental stone against them. While the enemy was distracted, Chiara cast another spell to knock him unconscious. “Zertis,” she said and soon he was fast asleep. She and Cuzo continued their teamwork; he would distract the Isharans while she cast her magic.
In the blink of an eye, the skirmish was over. The soldiers lie slumped to the ground, defeated. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Talic looked at the others. “Is everyone all right?” They nodded. “Good. We need to catch up to Armita; we lost a lot of time already. Cuzo, led the way.”
Meanwhile Cuzo lashed onto a soldier who was about to use an elemental stone against them. While the enemy was distracted, Chiara cast another spell to knock him unconscious. “Zertis,” she said and soon he was fast asleep. She and Cuzo continued their teamwork; he would distract the Isharans while she cast her magic.
In the blink of an eye, the skirmish was over. The soldiers lie slumped to the ground, defeated. Wiping the sweat from his forehead, Talic looked at the others. “Is everyone all right?” They nodded. “Good. We need to catch up to Armita; we lost a lot of time already. Cuzo, led the way.”
When he heard her words, a stunned Kahzin Theann halted and spun around. “What did you just say!?” he exclaimed.
“Your brother is not possessed,” she repeated.
He stared at her as if it was the first time he ever saw her. “Leomas isn’t possessed?” he asked in disbelief.
“He’s not possessed,” she told him again in a terse voice.
“Are you sure? How can you do know?”
“Of course I’m sure!” She was getting a bit peeved that he was doubting her. “All Possessor and Parasitic Duermons have a sixth sense that tells them if there is a Duermon residing in a human body. That way we know which host to avoid so we prevent any… awkwardness.”
Glancing back at his brother, he determined, “Then the Kasama must have bewitched him somehow.”
“What are you going to do?” she asked worriedly.
“Fight him,” he replied, gently shaking her hand off him. “Like I said, I’m going to free him. Yuveas, don’t try to stop me. That is an order. I need to do this on my own.”
Hessin opened his mouth to object but relented once he remembered that he agreed to follow his order. “Be careful, Theann,” he only said.
“I will.” As he climbed up the stairs, he drew out his sword. “Brother, I accept your challenge. Let’s find out who should rule Ishara.”
The Kahlin smiled as he walked toward him. “Let’s; though it’s so obvious who the victor will be.”
Then, without warning, he aimed a stream of water at his brother. Surprised, Theann stumbled down the stairs before he regained his footing. Not giving him a chance to recover, Leomas next activated the earth elemental stone, causing the floor to asunder and Theann to fall down to his knees. It was followed by a gust of wind, throwing the young prince down to the bottom of the stairs. Confident of his victory, the Kahlin sauntered over to him and bragged, “It looks like the gods are on my side, brother. Now accept your fate and die.”
Out of instinct, Tristé wanted to run over to him to check on him, but Theann shouted, “Stay back! I can still fight.”
“But!”
She felt Hessin place his hand on her shoulder as he whispered in her ear, “Listen to him. He knows what he’s doing.” She looked back at him, surprised that he wasn’t concerned by his descendant’s fate, but he gave her a reassuring look so she reluctantly stayed put.
Watching the whole scene, Leomas let out a boisterous laugh. “You still want to fight? You should have accepted their help. But then you have always been so stubborn, Theann, and that will be your downfall.”
“Maybe,” he agreed as he put his hand inside his shirt, “but it has helped me as well.”
He quickly pulled out a fire elemental stone and raised his hand so that it was right in front of Leomas’s face. A sudden burst of light flashed from the red stone, blinding his older brother. Swearing aloud, Theann’s older brother covered his eyes as he staggered backward. Theann didn’t waste this opportunity; he stood up and swiftly slammed into his brother. Leomas tumbled hard on his back with a loud thump, which knocked the wind out of him. At the same time, the Isharan crown fell off his hand and clanged on the marble floor before stopping a few centimeters away.
Theann walked over to his brother and pointed his sword. “It’s over, Leomas. Give up and let me help you.”
“Not yet. I’m not finished yet,” he snarled and pointed his scepter at him. The red elemental stone glowed like a sun. He then aimed an enormous fireball. Tristé could only watch with terror. There was no way Theann could avoid that hit. Just when it was about to hit, Hessin suddenly raised his hand and the fireball burst into tiny lights. Before the Kahlin could react, the god quickly gathered the sparks, transformed it into a javelin, and threw it at him, knocking his scepter out of his reach. A stunned Leomas could only gape. “Wh-what is this?” he stammered in complete and utter shock. “How could a lowly soldier easily stop it? I am the Immortal King… I am supposed to be unstoppable!”
“Leomas, you are not the reincarnation of the Immortal King because…” He glanced over at Hessin and continued, “This man is him. You are my brother, Leomas Soleri Ostrom – no one else. Not the Immortal King or whoever the Kasama made you believe you were. I don’t know what he did to you, but I will free you from his hold.”
The Kahlin barked out a bitter laugh and slapped his brother’s offering hand away. “I see what this is – a mockery of my divinity! The world had turned against its back on me. If I can’t have the throne, then no one will!”
Before anyone could stop him, he pushed Theann out of the way and rushed over to the throne. However, he didn’t try to reach the throne – he was heading to the cage holding the carnivorous Quentis. The three then realized what he was planning to do; he was going to free the birds, and with the state they were in, they would kill any living things on sight. “Leomas, wait!” the prince screamed, scrambling after him. Unfortunately the Kahlin didn’t heed him at all and reached his hand toward the latch.
“Your brother is not possessed,” she repeated.
He stared at her as if it was the first time he ever saw her. “Leomas isn’t possessed?” he asked in disbelief.
“He’s not possessed,” she told him again in a terse voice.
“Are you sure? How can you do know?”
“Of course I’m sure!” She was getting a bit peeved that he was doubting her. “All Possessor and Parasitic Duermons have a sixth sense that tells them if there is a Duermon residing in a human body. That way we know which host to avoid so we prevent any… awkwardness.”
Glancing back at his brother, he determined, “Then the Kasama must have bewitched him somehow.”
“What are you going to do?” she asked worriedly.
“Fight him,” he replied, gently shaking her hand off him. “Like I said, I’m going to free him. Yuveas, don’t try to stop me. That is an order. I need to do this on my own.”
Hessin opened his mouth to object but relented once he remembered that he agreed to follow his order. “Be careful, Theann,” he only said.
“I will.” As he climbed up the stairs, he drew out his sword. “Brother, I accept your challenge. Let’s find out who should rule Ishara.”
The Kahlin smiled as he walked toward him. “Let’s; though it’s so obvious who the victor will be.”
Then, without warning, he aimed a stream of water at his brother. Surprised, Theann stumbled down the stairs before he regained his footing. Not giving him a chance to recover, Leomas next activated the earth elemental stone, causing the floor to asunder and Theann to fall down to his knees. It was followed by a gust of wind, throwing the young prince down to the bottom of the stairs. Confident of his victory, the Kahlin sauntered over to him and bragged, “It looks like the gods are on my side, brother. Now accept your fate and die.”
Out of instinct, Tristé wanted to run over to him to check on him, but Theann shouted, “Stay back! I can still fight.”
“But!”
She felt Hessin place his hand on her shoulder as he whispered in her ear, “Listen to him. He knows what he’s doing.” She looked back at him, surprised that he wasn’t concerned by his descendant’s fate, but he gave her a reassuring look so she reluctantly stayed put.
Watching the whole scene, Leomas let out a boisterous laugh. “You still want to fight? You should have accepted their help. But then you have always been so stubborn, Theann, and that will be your downfall.”
“Maybe,” he agreed as he put his hand inside his shirt, “but it has helped me as well.”
He quickly pulled out a fire elemental stone and raised his hand so that it was right in front of Leomas’s face. A sudden burst of light flashed from the red stone, blinding his older brother. Swearing aloud, Theann’s older brother covered his eyes as he staggered backward. Theann didn’t waste this opportunity; he stood up and swiftly slammed into his brother. Leomas tumbled hard on his back with a loud thump, which knocked the wind out of him. At the same time, the Isharan crown fell off his hand and clanged on the marble floor before stopping a few centimeters away.
Theann walked over to his brother and pointed his sword. “It’s over, Leomas. Give up and let me help you.”
“Not yet. I’m not finished yet,” he snarled and pointed his scepter at him. The red elemental stone glowed like a sun. He then aimed an enormous fireball. Tristé could only watch with terror. There was no way Theann could avoid that hit. Just when it was about to hit, Hessin suddenly raised his hand and the fireball burst into tiny lights. Before the Kahlin could react, the god quickly gathered the sparks, transformed it into a javelin, and threw it at him, knocking his scepter out of his reach. A stunned Leomas could only gape. “Wh-what is this?” he stammered in complete and utter shock. “How could a lowly soldier easily stop it? I am the Immortal King… I am supposed to be unstoppable!”
“Leomas, you are not the reincarnation of the Immortal King because…” He glanced over at Hessin and continued, “This man is him. You are my brother, Leomas Soleri Ostrom – no one else. Not the Immortal King or whoever the Kasama made you believe you were. I don’t know what he did to you, but I will free you from his hold.”
The Kahlin barked out a bitter laugh and slapped his brother’s offering hand away. “I see what this is – a mockery of my divinity! The world had turned against its back on me. If I can’t have the throne, then no one will!”
Before anyone could stop him, he pushed Theann out of the way and rushed over to the throne. However, he didn’t try to reach the throne – he was heading to the cage holding the carnivorous Quentis. The three then realized what he was planning to do; he was going to free the birds, and with the state they were in, they would kill any living things on sight. “Leomas, wait!” the prince screamed, scrambling after him. Unfortunately the Kahlin didn’t heed him at all and reached his hand toward the latch.
“Ithani, wait!” Armita shouted as she pursued her sister down another corridor. However, Ithani couldn’t hear her since she was still far away. Determined, she forced herself to run faster to catch up. The only sounds she heard was her voice and their footsteps. It seemed like no one else was there except the two of them. It was as if they were the only ones who exist in the world.
They continued that way; Ithani’s racing ahead with Armita’s chasing after her. Ithani would turn this way and then that way as if she was in a rush. Undeterred, Armita followed after her without slowing down; no twists and turns would stop her from reaching her sister. Just as she thought that they would continue like that forever, Ithani stopped at an intersection. Screaming with all of her might, Armita said her sister’s name, “Ithani!”
This time she heard her. Turning around at the sound of her name, Ithani gaped in shock when she saw her. “Armita?” she asked.
All of a sudden, another voice said, “Ithani, what are you doing?” Two men then appeared from the left, causing Armita to halt a few meters away. Upon seeing the Velscendus insignia on their clothing, Armita realized that they were members of the cult. The taller and bulky one grabbed her sister by the arm and yanked her while the shorter one growled, “We need to leave now!”
Ithani nodded slowly even though she still stared at her. Based on her reaction, Armita thought she would refuse and run toward her. Instead, she followed the first man and disappeared around the corner. Stunned, Armita stood there at first but quickly gave chase. Running after them, she called out, “Ithani!”
The remaining Velscendus member turned around, causing her to stop once again. He wore a red-and-gold robe, and his physical features were that of a Sendoan. That was when it occurred to her that the person she was facing was the Kasama himself. Realizing that she recognized him, he smiled at her before he fled. Just seeing that creepy grin on his face caused her blood to freeze. Nevertheless she recovered quickly from her shock and followed after him. However, when she stopped at the intersection, she looked around and couldn’t find Ithani nor the Kasama anywhere. They have disappeared from the face of the earth.
They continued that way; Ithani’s racing ahead with Armita’s chasing after her. Ithani would turn this way and then that way as if she was in a rush. Undeterred, Armita followed after her without slowing down; no twists and turns would stop her from reaching her sister. Just as she thought that they would continue like that forever, Ithani stopped at an intersection. Screaming with all of her might, Armita said her sister’s name, “Ithani!”
This time she heard her. Turning around at the sound of her name, Ithani gaped in shock when she saw her. “Armita?” she asked.
All of a sudden, another voice said, “Ithani, what are you doing?” Two men then appeared from the left, causing Armita to halt a few meters away. Upon seeing the Velscendus insignia on their clothing, Armita realized that they were members of the cult. The taller and bulky one grabbed her sister by the arm and yanked her while the shorter one growled, “We need to leave now!”
Ithani nodded slowly even though she still stared at her. Based on her reaction, Armita thought she would refuse and run toward her. Instead, she followed the first man and disappeared around the corner. Stunned, Armita stood there at first but quickly gave chase. Running after them, she called out, “Ithani!”
The remaining Velscendus member turned around, causing her to stop once again. He wore a red-and-gold robe, and his physical features were that of a Sendoan. That was when it occurred to her that the person she was facing was the Kasama himself. Realizing that she recognized him, he smiled at her before he fled. Just seeing that creepy grin on his face caused her blood to freeze. Nevertheless she recovered quickly from her shock and followed after him. However, when she stopped at the intersection, she looked around and couldn’t find Ithani nor the Kasama anywhere. They have disappeared from the face of the earth.
Just as Kahlin Leomas was about to move the latch, he suddenly crumbled to the floor. Next to him stood Hessin, who managed to knock him out by hitting him on the back of his head; the gateway still opened behind him. A tensed Tristé let out a sigh of relief and collapsed to the ground. Meanwhile Theann slowly walked over to retrieve the Isharan crown and looked up at his brother – or rather the Quentis birds in the background. The once-berserk birds were now sitting on their perches silently and covered their heads in their wings. Their black feathers fell to the ground as they molted their old feathers and grew white ones instead. Without looking back at her, Theann said quietly, “Tristé, open the door and let everyone knows that the battle is over. Ishara is at peace once more.”
And that fight against the mutouh was quite well depicted. The desert people are very swift to be able to keep it from hitting them. 
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