It was a cold evening and Adrian was blue, he felt left out from the group that had gathered near the tea stall. They were debating about which music was the best of all times. Roark said it was 'Coldplay' beyond doubt, Andrew had just started listening rock music and he wanted to boast about his new passion and three others formed a little sub group to talk about Hindi music , the new band 'LocalTrain' had blown their minds.
Then it all happened!
There was a flash near the old library, nobody except Adrain saw it. He tried to warn others, but no words could escape his mouth.
Whilst the rest were busy pointing out how wrong each others music choices were, Adrain started to walk all by himself towards the old library.
He saw an old carpenter using a welding machine at the door, he thought it must have been the flash from welding but his pounding heart knew that something was eerie.
Wait, did he know this old carpenter? he felt he had seen him somewhere? perhaps in one of the manga's he had read. He scratched his head for a while and then he remembered the old man who would always appear in every manga he read and the quote from the 'Lost ark' which had a large picture of an old man!
The quote said 'I am coming'.
Poor Adrain was scared to hell.Was he having another nightmare? he didn't know, all he knew was that he wanted to run away as fast as could from this old man, but his legs were frozen!
Suddenly there was another flash, and Adrain was gone and so was the old man.
After weeks of futile searching, the authorities gave up hope of ever solving the mystery of the lost boy. There were no clues to where he could have been.Thereafter nothing happened. Days passed by , the friends still met at the tea stall and discussed movies.
Until one sunny afternoon Roark found a manga under his bed. He quickly turned the pages out of boredom but something caught his eye - An old man appearing in the background of some scenes.
He had read this manga for more than ten times as a kid and he couldn't remember the old man! Being a smart kid he googled 'lost ark' -chapter one, there he saw what he hadn't expected, there was an old man in the background scenes in the online version of this manga.
Assuring himself that nothing was fishy about the old manga, he closed his eyes to take a nap.
Three minutes later the computer screen flashed and Roark vanished forever.
It was a cold evening and Adrian was blue, he felt left out from the group that had gathered near the tea stall. They were debating about which music was the best of all times. Roark said it was 'Coldplay' beyond doubt, Andrew had just started listening rock music and he wanted to boast about his new passion and three others formed a little sub group to talk about Hindi music , the new band 'LocalTrain' had blown their minds.
Then it all happened!
There was a flash near the old library, nobody except Adrain saw it. He tried to warn others, but no words could escape his mouth.
Whilst the rest were busy pointing out how wrong each others music choices were, Adrain started to walk all by himself towards the old library.
He saw an old carpenter using a welding machine at the door, he thought it must have been the flash from welding but his pounding heart knew that something was eerie.
Wait, did he know this old carpenter? he felt he had seen him somewhere? perhaps in one of the manga's he had read. He scratched his head for a while and then he remembered the old man who would always appear in every manga he read and the quote from the 'Lost ark' which had a large picture of an old man!
The quote said 'I am coming'.
Poor Adrain was scared to hell.Was he having another nightmare? he didn't know, all he knew was that he wanted to run away as fast as could from this old man, but his legs were frozen!
Suddenly there was another flash, and Adrain was gone and so was the old man.
After weeks of futile searching, the authorities gave up hope of ever solving the mystery of the lost boy. There were no clues to where he could have been.Thereafter nothing happened. Days passed by , the friends still met at the tea stall and discussed movies.
Until one sunny afternoon Roark found a manga under his bed. He quickly turned the pages out of boredom but something caught his eye - An old man appearing in the background of some scenes.
He had read this manga for more than ten times as a kid and he couldn't remember the old man! Being a smart kid he googled 'lost ark' -chapter one, there he saw what he hadn't expected, there was an old man in the background scenes in the online version of this manga.
Assuring himself that nothing was fishy about the old manga, he closed his eyes to take a nap.
Three minutes later the computer screen flashed and Roark vanished forever.
“A Fish Named Maninder”
You chew on the string of your hoodie as you press against the door. The clatter of a bell plays overhead. The hoodie string had been folded against your neck as you walked down the block, and it tastes of your sweat. You spit it out. The street was dark, and the sky powdered with rain clouds. The air pressure changes as you step in, humidity seeping away. The ringing sets off a chain reaction of barking, and the distinct smell of animals hits you. The store is bright, nearly blinding at first glance. You squint your eyes as you move further into the pet store. The woman at the front register greets you politely. She asks you if you’re looking for anything in particular. You tense up and avert your eyes.
“No, just… browsing.” You gulp and give her a weak nod before walking deeper into the shop. You jump when you feel the phone in your pocket vibrate. You pull it out, disappearing into a random aisle.
Your friend is calling. You answer, “Hello?”
“Are you there yet?” They ask. You look around you to see if anyone’s watching. There are a few couples roaming about, with passive faces, a child or two bursting with energy and giggles at the sight of the chinchillas. Decidedly less excited parents, tugging them along.
“Yeah, I’m here,” You hesitate before adding in a whisper, “but I don’t know if I can do this.”
“Bullshit, of course you can. If you pull this off we’ll be legendary.”
You agree with them, tapping your foot and mindlessly examining the shelves of brand-name dog food in front of you. The bags read: “Made with Real Chicken” and you wonder, ‘What’s fake chicken?’
You are acting like a chicken. You begin to pace.
“Fine, I’ll just… I’ll see what I can do.” You stare into the glossy round camera at the corner of the high ceiling for a second too long. You begin to overthink the entire plan.
You hang up.
“Is there anything I can help you with?” A teenager, not much older than you, approaches. He’s wearing a green apron and his name tag reads Maninder. You consider him, wonder how he got a job so young and whether you could apply here too. Then you remember why you're here in the first place, and determine that wouldn’t be a great idea.
“Uh, no I’m just browsing. Thanks though.”
He gives you a weird look, a too-long look that raises the hairs on your arms, but he shrugs it off and continues to restock leashes, and you shrug it off, too.
You practically jog down the center of the store, reading the signs above each section as you go. The sound of sloshing water follows you, so you slow down and clutch your stomach.
The fish tanks line the back walls, glowing an iridescent blue, lights and filter humming softly like an old microwave. There are two cameras on the east and west walls, but you silently hope that they are pointed away. You pull your hoodie up. This is a bad idea.
You decide against picking out any particular fish, it seems cruel. You roll up your sleeves. You pull a Ziploc from your hoodie pocket and open its sealed lip.
The fish tanks are rightfully open at the top. No one expects you to reach down quickly, plunging your arm and clasping a fish in your dominant hand. It’s slimy and jumps around in your palm and you don’t dare to look before jostling it into the bag of water. Closing the Ziploc, you swallow your nerves and retreat into a darker aisle.
You imagine the fish swimming belly up in the plastic bag you smuggled filled with tap water. You resist the guilt that flares up and burns the sides of your neck. Carefully zipping the bag closed, you speed walk away from the tanks. Blindly you reach for a plastic bowl and a small bag of multicolored stones to throw off suspicion.
It feels like an eternity before you reach the registers.
You tell the cashier that you just want the bowl and rocks. She asks if you have a pet fish at home. Something like that. Would you like to add on free dechlorinator with the purchase of the bowl? Uh, yeah sure.
You pay with cash. You feel movement on your stomach.
“I think you’ve spilled something on your shirt.”
You look down and see a steadily growing water stain on the pouch of your hoodie.
“Oh, that’s nothing.”
You turn hard on your heels and begin to leave. Maninder is holding the door for you. He is grinning and shaking his head in disbelief.
"Gotta be 18 to buy a fish here." It isn't a question, but his voice lacks accusation.
You redden fiercely and duck your head. You run out the door and back down the block. The clouds in the sky are swollen, and you begin to run as the wetness grows against your stomach and the first thick drops of rain hit your face.
Once you're in your car, you quickly grab the bowl, tearing open the bag of rocks and spilling in a few pebbles. Your hands shake as you pull out the Ziploc. The fish, dark blue, is swimming, frightened, pressing against the walls of the plastic bag. From one corner water steadily drips down onto your lap. Carefully you transfer the fish into the bowl, adding a few drops of dechlorinator, prompted by an afterthought.
As the chorus of rain began to play against the roof of the car, you watch the blue fish settle down, and feel your adrenaline slip away. Suddenly you are very, very tired.
Pulling the seat belt across the breast of the bowl, you secure the fish and then yourself. You should call your friend and tell them about your success. You decide against it for now and turn the key in your car.
You decide to name the fish Maninder, for the boy who helped you steal him.
The Tiger came to me in a dream.
She sat in the middle of the street in a regal posture that outlined the details of her flaming coat of fur. Her eyes glinted in the pale grey of the sky, too familiar to be anything other than human. I outstretched my hand in the open space to reach her but every time I shifted closer, it was as if I was only further away. I broke out into a desperate sprint but I found I was imprisoned in a jar of molasses, unable to budge. A guttural scream escaped my throat as I collapsed on the ground with the Tiger still so close, yet so far away.
When I woke up, I discovered that my cheeks were slick with tears and my heart was heavy with a sadness that blossomed from the deepest part of my soul. I had a sudden longing to be held by my mom, for her to lure me back to sleep with one of her Chinese lullabies. I thought of the days she would hum tunes from her childhood in Yunnan as she abated the terrors in my nightmares. I wished for her warm embrace, for her gentle hand to once again comb through the length of my inky black hair.
“Mom is a tiger,” I declare to my dad the next morning.
“What?”
“Mom is a tiger,” I repeat with an unknown urgency that bubbled out of me from seemingly nowhere.
I think about my mother who was born in 1974: the year of the Tiger. My mind reluctantly resurfaces the cold memory I tried so despairingly to drown inside the ocean of my brain. My mom’s frozen hand gripped me so hard my arm ached, squeezing as if she was grasping on to the little bit of life she had left. I will always be with you, bao bao, she had said as her soul was ripped out of her weak, frail body. It was as if time completely stopped at that very second, or maybe it was moving all too fast. As her hand went limp, I felt a part of me being taken with her, a fraction that was wrung out by her tight hold on me.
My dad doesn’t believe me. He doesn’t understand, he can’t understand. He didn’t grow up with stories of nine-tailed foxes and the four guardian dragons. He didn’t hear her sing the traditional Chinese folk songs to me, the ones that were riddled with nostalgia and tales of adventure. I can see the disbelief clouding his eyes when he hears the fantastical details of my dream, know that it’s disapproval that lines the wrinkles of his face. He cannot fathom my mom coming to me in the shape of the Tiger because he cannot believe in the Chinese zodiac mythology, the spiritual koi fish, the yin and the yang. It’s not truly his fault but to me, it is.
That night, when I travel back to my dreamland, my mother is waiting for me. The Tiger is buried in the tall grass, her majestic fur gleaming in the sunlight. When my eyes meet with her earthy brown ones, she rises to take her place across from me. The soft pitter-patter of her paws hitting the ground soon morphs into louder, thudding footsteps. As I take in the sight of my mother’s enlivened body standing in front of me, my eyes well up with an emotion I struggled to suppress in the fresh days of her passing.
“Ma ma,” I exclaimed, “I knew it. I knew it was you.” I hear the chime of her laugh, see the way it reverberates through her entire body. She places her hand on my cheek, warm and soft. She wipes away the water leaking out of the rivers of my eyes even though I can see the same teardrops falling from beneath her eyelashes. She doesn’t utter a single word but for some reason, she doesn’t have to. We revel in the summer heat, breathing in the crisp scent of the green grass underneath us. In that single moment, sitting beside my otherworldly mother, I understand every aspect of fire, earth, air, and water.
We lay on the pillowy grass for what seems like hours, basking in the tender silence of each other’s company. We don’t move an inch, for the clouds move for us. As time goes on, I wish that the moment would never end, that I would be by my mother’s side like this for the rest of eternity. But soon the colors wither into muted tones that steal each beam of sunlight from the sky. Replacing them are sinister storm clouds that are prepared to release destruction in this world. Yellow weeds start to sprout from the ground and intertwine themselves with my ankles. Every part of the natural horror orders me to return to the comforts of my sheets and blankets. I run to my mother who watches me in sorrow, grieving for the me who belongs in this world with her.
“I’m scared ma ma,” I whisper as her body fades from my vision. Her mouth doesn’t open but her melancholic eyes are able to speak for her. The droplets of rain blur my eyesight and I find myself lost in rose thorns and cypress vines and thunderclaps and lightning strikes. I blink out the water that has found its way into my eyes but only more begins to fill up in my sockets. The last thing I see is my mother stepping back into her spirit form of the hu, the Tiger. I see her blood orange coat of fur, the rotten yellow of the leaves, the lightless black skies, and then finally nothing.
From the confines of my bedroom, if I listen closely enough, I swear I can hear the remnants of the hushed pitches of my mother’s Northeastern Chinese cradle song in her hypnotic voice lulling me back to sleep.
Warfare Phantoms
Cling cong clang as the bullets batter against the truck. “Medic ! Medic ! Ahh” A man shouted before being shot by a fury of bullets. “ crackle This is battalion crackle 14 ahhhh”. “All personnel evacuate” A man on the radio screamed“oh my god” he said as a massive flying machine overhead “Drop the bomb” A deep inhuman voice can be heard on all frequencies then 2 bombs drop from the massive flying war ship “AAAAAAHHHH” the screams of the people who died a horrific death. And that is how the Mechanical war ended and most of the world.
“Grandpa Hiro, Yorokobi, Shirudo” The boy yelled as everyone looked at him with a strange face. “HA”a high pitched voice screamed. “Yorokobi there you are”He said joyfully.he saw over her shoulder a boy his age and an old man “Grandpa,Shirudo” he said as
He ran to hug them.As they ran Ha tripped and landed on top of Shirudo.seconds later The old man winded up then hit Ha in the head “you should be more careful next time”Grandpa Hiro said smiling ”HAHAHAHA” Shirudo laughed at Ha“There's only one of me dummy ”He screamed before wrestling with Shirudo at the train station.”Now time to head back home” Grandpa Hiro said.”Race you to the sky line”! Shirudo yelled. “Don’t forget about me” Yorokobi yelled as she ran to catch up with them. A few hours later “Hurry get to bed” Grandpa Hiro said They all went into their rooms. As Ha and Shirudo were about to enter. “Stop, It is about time you knew about your parents” Grandpa Hiro said. They all went down stairs to talk about it “As you know you never knew your parents but you can meet them” Grandpa Hiro said “What i can” Shirudo yelled in shock“I did and i thought it's time I told you” Grandpa Hiro said “But i’m so sorry i lied” He said “So Grandpa what was mom and dad like” Shirudo “your mother was my daughter, your dad was good fellow i knew i could trust him with my daughter your grandma”Grandpa Hiro paused “died during attack” Grandpa continue see your parents weren’t your normal merchants instead they were explorers,warriors, they let me decide when to tell you the truth when the time was right, so now's the time they might still alive.” Grandpa said, ”Now I'll go get some tea yo-- AAAHHH”Grandpa screamed “Grandpa” Ha and Shirudo yelled at the same time.Time seemed to freeze.suddenly siren blared loudly. A whisper of the night stormed the streets killing and destroying what they could. One of them got to Grandpa. The only thing that could be heard were screams can only be heard and tears can only be felt that day. They quickly left as the
7 years later
Shirudo scout around i’ll make camp with Yorokobi.As soon as they finished camp Ha sat down. “Is something wrong Ha” Yorokobi asked quietly. “Yes, remember the day” Ha said “ye--” Yorokobi “Mask now” Shirudo interrupted. “Fine” ha said putting on a mask a few seconds later“hello there” a stranger asked “What do you want?” Ha asked menacingly “Now, there brother lets see what he has to offer”Shirudo
“Now” the man whispered. Then total silence and darkness.
“What happened?” Ha asked, looking at his brother and sister who were still sleeping. “Shut up”A man outside the cage said
“Fine,” Ha muttered, going back to sleep. As they were 12 guards outside
2 days later of traveling “Up and adam a man yelled “what” Shirudo asked
“ the Fury Fire arena committee says your first match is in 15 min” The man yelled at Shirudo “Me” Shirudo asked “No the boy over there” the man said pointing at Ha “What about me” Shirudo asked “You’re going to the south labor camps” He said with a smirk “When” Shirudo asked “Now”The man said unlocking the door “No let go of me” Shirudo screamed “What's going on” Yorokobi said “Ha there taking Shirudo” Yorokobi yelled Ha raced to the doors window and screamed “Let go of my brother”. But it was too late they threw him into the truck and sped away. Seconds later The door swung open and 2 guards came in to take Ha to fight. “No you’re not taking Yorokobi too” Ha yelled “no, we’re here for you” one of the men said. Then pitch black.
They sped off south to the glowing sea. Later they reached the shore and got on a boat. And set sail to a fortress in the sea with multiple other people “What is this place” Shirudo asked “this place was supposed to be another last city it seems” an old man said.As soon as the old man finished the large boat hit something. “We’re here” a man shouted. “Welcome to The Blue Quarry now get to work” A fat man said from a tv. The guards turned and started to line every one up. “Why are we doing this” Shirudo yelled “Shut up” the guard in front of Shirudo said “No” shirudo said “What did you say” The guard said pulling his hand to his gun “I said -----” Shirudo was about to say.Then time seamlessly stopped a loud bang ended the time stop then a clang. “What” the guard screamed. Shirudo turned his head revealing the machinery under his skin and his dark red mechanical eye looking straight at him.Soon a squad tackled Shirudo and chained him up. “Send him to the cell block that’ll teach him” the guard said. Second after they began heading towards a different lift. But Shirudo lifted his leg above the guard head and locked it on his neck then twisted his leg ripping his head off and killing him instantly. He kept fighting the guard then crackled then darkness.A large man stood over Shirudo and looked at the guard. “Jackson you had one job if you can’t watch one 21 year old straggler then what about a revolution” the man said. He was looking at the young adult when he noticed the machinery under his skin. “ I want a clean up crew on lift 4 and a guard” he radioed.
“Let me out” Ha screamed. “It's no use” a voice said “what” Ha yelled “we’re gladiators here we have no power but to kill for entertainment” A man said appearing out of a shadow. “Who are you?” Ha asked “None of your business” The man said “Now if you want to live get equipped the fight about to start” The man said pointing to the armory “Fine” Ha said before walking towards the direction he pointed. “What to choose what to choose ahh got it” Ha said picking up a sword and a light submachine gun. 5 minutes later, gladiator to the field into armour.
“3 2 1” a strange voice said “Then a hum. “How am I here?” Ha said. Drat drat drat, clang, ppuurrrrf, Phooooom. “It's like a battlefield out here” Ha scream. Bullet flew over his head then he saw a good place to hide. “ I got to get there,” Ha said “3 2 1” Ha said. He climbed out of the trench he was hiding in and ran. Drat drat bullets were heading for him. He quickly retaliated fire and continued to run in a zig zag. “Uuuugh '' he grunted he was just shot. “Get him boys' ' a guy shouted and they charged at him. He quickly ducked and hit a guy still continuing to run. He was so close then blackout. “ Ha '' Yorokobi screamed.
3 hours later “what happened” ha said “Yorokobi” he said “Ha you’re ok” Yorokobi said “hold the aahhh” he said before being shot by a fury of bullets. “5 minutes remaining” a voice said. “They got though the ahh” a man shouted
“What what happened” Shirudo yelled “what did you do to get here” a boy said “None of your business” Shirudo said “ i’ll ask you again what did you do” the young man walked out of the shadow to reveal a scar running from the bottom of his eye to his neck. “Fine, killed a guard, '' Shirudo said. “Start a riot” the boy said. “The name xex” he said “Shirudo” Shirudo said “it’s ok you guys can come out” Xex a dark tan skin.said. 2 boys and 1 girl appeared out of the shadow. This is Teck, Pj, and twilight. “More friends' ' the little girl twilight said. “There's more” Shirudo asked curiously. “Of course we’re not gonna start a war alone” Teck said. “A war” Shirudo shouted “Yes, now keep it down” Xex hushed “Come with me” Pj said he gestured towards the wall. They both walked towards the wall. Pj pushed 3 bolts banged against the wall and said ghost.the wall opened up to reveal a small tunnel leading down and a ragged soldier.
“What's going on?” Ha said. “No time to explain here,” Yorokobi said, tossing Ha his Sword gun hybrid. “Time to go,” Yorokobi shouted. “30 seconds remaining” a voice said. “Bombie boys get th--” the strange man said before being engulfed in flames. “AAAAhhhh” the strange man screamed before dying his injuries. A loud boom erupted filling the air with fire. “ Take cover”, Ha shouted.
They walked till they came to a small door. Xex opened the door. “Welcome to ghosts” Xex said. “Wow” Shirudo admired “we’re not starting a war we’re busting out everyone out” Xex explained
“You see the mine here supplying ore to the red automation” Teck jumped in “who are they” Shirudo asked “ you might know them as the forgotten” Xex said. For Shirudo time stopped and he was in the grasp of the ones who ruined their lives and thanks to them he might never see the ones he love again. “Shirudo Shirudo” Xex yelled “who wait what” Shirudo sperted out “so do you want to join the fight” Pj asked. Shirudo thought I could bring vengeance to grandpa and fight those who brought pain to people. “I’ll join” He said “are you ---” Xex was about to finish “ I have made up my mind”
Shirudo declared “oh ok then” Xex reacted “So how are busting everyone out” Shirudo asked.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH” Shirudo screamed. Falling through a seemingly endless shaft “Oouch!” Shirudo yelled. The rope he was attached to yanked him back “Out of the way” Xex yelled “woooooohoooooo” Xex screamed the entire way down “when said i want to----” Shirudo was about to say. Thwack! “What was--” Shirudo was to say again before getting hit again
“Wha--’ Shirudo was about to finish before being cut off. “That was for screaming and yelling” Xex said “teamwork makes the dream works” Shirudo muttered
“OH My God your arm” Yorokobi screamed. She tore off part of the shirt revealing 3 bullet holes in his arm and blood everywhere. “NO NO someone help please?” Yorokobi begged with tears. “Stand back” a young man shouted quickly working on him
“Why are we doing this?” Shirudo asked “remember how this was supposed to be a last city” Xex explained “Yeah” Shirudo replied ambiguous still. “So safe” Xex continues “Oh right the cells” Shirudo ppiiikk “what what happened” Xex asked “Dude you facepalm so hard that you black out” Shirudo explained “so to the m.e.s we go” Xex said walking down the catwalk. “And what is that” Shirudo asked
“Help me” a voice screamed. “Help us Help us Help us” multiple voices scream now “I I can’t I can’t” He said trembling.
Drat drat “Bravo what's going on” Xex yelled at the radio “something must have gone wrong” Shirudo screamed. Rumble rumbled “What's going on?” Xex asked “look over there” Shirudo pointed towards the door. “Shirudo '' Xex roared. He ran over to where Shirudo fell.He tore away the shirt revealing no flesh but machine.
Something shifted in Xex. he ignored him and helped the unplanned evacuation. “Help me” Shirudo beg looking at Xex “Get up get up” a voice cried out “Who who is that”
Shirudo asked weakly. “It's me twilight” She responded with joy “I’m not leaving a friend behind hhmmff” Twilight said stubbornly “Twilight twil--” a familiar voice yelled before quickly being interrupted by a fury of bullets. The person hit the ground and revealed himself to be Xex. “Xex Xex '' Shirudo shouted amongst the gunfire. Ting ting then he felt something near his foot. The gear in his brain grinded he bear hugged and turned around from it.PPPhhhooom the thing he felt was a grenade. He and Twilight were sent flying and landed with a hard thud. “Twilight Shirudo!” Xex howled. Shirudo's head ringed and he got up but with the agonising pain he fell.He tried again but stopped when he saw a blurred image of someone. “Xex ''Shirudo blurted out. “Initiate and destroy '' A deep robotic voice vented. “Oh no Twilight” Shirudo howled in fear. Bang, it shifted the mood.The dust settled revealed Xex holding a gun toward the now lifeless robot. “Thanks” Shirudo thanked “Your welcome” Xex replied in a cold voice. “Now time to go” Xex continued. Xex helped Shirudo to one of the last sub pods. “Why are you guys still here?” Shirudo asked, looking at the multiple lifeless bodies lying around. “Engine gone silent” Xex responded coldly. “There you are the captain after the last firefight we couldn't find you” soldier yelled “Get them to the medbay '' Xex shouted “but” the soldier asked “Now”Xex yelled. “Right sir” The soldier replied with shock. “Engine up and running” Another soldier yelled from an upper catwalk. “Good now let's go” Xex replied. Shirudo looked around the launch bay. It was littered with small stations and families huddled together. “Time to go people '' a soldier shouted. Just like that everything was in motion the people and gear. “We have fixed your robotic nerves and-” Ting tong tang the automation ended the life of the doctor. “C'mon we gotta hold them off” Xex yelled. AAAAhhhhh Phooom bang bang boom the sounds of warfare. “First wave done” another soldier yelled.rumble rumble “what was that” Shiru
Warfare Phantoms
Cling cong clang as the bullets batter against the truck. “Medic ! Medic ! Ahh” A man shouted before being shot by a fury of bullets. “ crackle This is battalion crackle 14 ahhhh”. “All personnel evacuate” A man on the radio screamed“oh my god” he said as a massive flying machine overhead “Drop the bomb” A deep inhuman voice can be heard on all frequencies then 2 bombs drop from the massive flying war ship “AAAAAAHHHH” the screams of the people who died a horrific death. And that is how the Mechanical war ended and most of the world.
“Grandpa Hiro, Yorokobi, Shirudo” The boy yelled as everyone looked at him with a strange face. “HA”a high pitched voice screamed. “Yorokobi there you are”He said joyfully.he saw over her shoulder a boy his age and an old man “Grandpa,Shirudo” he said as
He ran to hug them.As they ran Ha tripped and landed on top of Shirudo.seconds later The old man winded up then hit Ha in the head “you should be more careful next time”Grandpa Hiro said smiling ”HAHAHAHA” Shirudo laughed at Ha“There's only one of me dummy ”He screamed before wrestling with Shirudo at the train station.”Now time to head back home” Grandpa Hiro said.”Race you to the sky line”! Shirudo yelled. “Don’t forget about me” Yorokobi yelled as she ran to catch up with them. A few hours later “Hurry get to bed” Grandpa Hiro said They all went into their rooms. As Ha and Shirudo were about to enter. “Stop, It is about time you knew about your parents” Grandpa Hiro said. They all went down stairs to talk about it “As you know you never knew your parents but you can meet them” Grandpa Hiro said “What i can” Shirudo yelled in shock“I did and i thought it's time I told you” Grandpa Hiro said “But i’m so sorry i lied” He said “So Grandpa what was mom and dad like” Shirudo “your mother was my daughter, your dad was good fellow i knew i could trust him with my daughter your grandma”Grandpa Hiro paused “died during attack” Grandpa continue see your parents weren’t your normal merchants instead they were explorers,warriors, they let me decide when to tell you the truth when the time was right, so now's the time they might still alive.” Grandpa said, ”Now I'll go get some tea yo-- AAAHHH”Grandpa screamed “Grandpa” Ha and Shirudo yelled at the same time.Time seemed to freeze.suddenly siren blared loudly. A whisper of the night stormed the streets killing and destroying what they could. One of them got to Grandpa. The only thing that could be heard were screams can only be heard and tears can only be felt that day. They quickly left as the
7 years later
Shirudo scout around i’ll make camp with Yorokobi.As soon as they finished camp Ha sat down. “Is something wrong Ha” Yorokobi asked quietly. “Yes, remember the day” Ha said “ye--” Yorokobi “Mask now” Shirudo interrupted. “Fine” ha said putting on a mask a few seconds later“hello there” a stranger asked “What do you want?” Ha asked menacingly “Now, there brother lets see what he has to offer”Shirudo
“Now” the man whispered. Then total silence and darkness.
“What happened?” Ha asked, looking at his brother and sister who were still sleeping. “Shut up”A man outside the cage said
“Fine,” Ha muttered, going back to sleep. As they were 12 guards outside
2 days later of traveling “Up and adam a man yelled “what” Shirudo asked
“ the Fury Fire arena committee says your first match is in 15 min” The man yelled at Shirudo “Me” Shirudo asked “No the boy over there” the man said pointing at Ha “What about me” Shirudo asked “You’re going to the south labor camps” He said with a smirk “When” Shirudo asked “Now”The man said unlocking the door “No let go of me” Shirudo screamed “What's going on” Yorokobi said “Ha there taking Shirudo” Yorokobi yelled Ha raced to the doors window and screamed “Let go of my brother”. But it was too late they threw him into the truck and sped away. Seconds later The door swung open and 2 guards came in to take Ha to fight. “No you’re not taking Yorokobi too” Ha yelled “no, we’re here for you” one of the men said. Then pitch black.
They sped off south to the glowing sea. Later they reached the shore and got on a boat. And set sail to a fortress in the sea with multiple other people “What is this place” Shirudo asked “this place was supposed to be another last city it seems” an old man said.As soon as the old man finished the large boat hit something. “We’re here” a man shouted. “Welcome to The Blue Quarry now get to work” A fat man said from a tv. The guards turned and started to line every one up. “Why are we doing this” Shirudo yelled “Shut up” the guard in front of Shirudo said “No” shirudo said “What did you say” The guard said pulling his hand to his gun “I said -----” Shirudo was about to say.Then time seamlessly stopped a loud bang ended the time stop then a clang. “What” the guard screamed. Shirudo turned his head revealing the machinery under his skin and his dark red mechanical eye looking straight at him.Soon a squad tackled Shirudo and chained him up. “Send him to the cell block that’ll teach him” the guard said. Second after they began heading towards a different lift. But Shirudo lifted his leg above the guard head and locked it on his neck then twisted his leg ripping his head off and killing him instantly. He kept fighting the guard then crackled then darkness.A large man stood over Shirudo and looked at the guard. “Jackson you had one job if you can’t watch one 21 year old straggler then what about a revolution” the man said. He was looking at the young adult when he noticed the machinery under his skin. “ I want a clean up crew on lift 4 and a guard” he radioed.
“Let me out” Ha screamed. “It's no use” a voice said “what” Ha yelled “we’re gladiators here we have no power but to kill for entertainment” A man said appearing out of a shadow. “Who are you?” Ha asked “None of your business” The man said “Now if you want to live get equipped the fight about to start” The man said pointing to the armory “Fine” Ha said before walking towards the direction he pointed. “What to choose what to choose ahh got it” Ha said picking up a sword and a light submachine gun. 5 minutes later, gladiator to the field into armour.
“3 2 1” a strange voice said “Then a hum. “How am I here?” Ha said. Drat drat drat, clang, ppuurrrrf, Phooooom. “It's like a battlefield out here” Ha scream. Bullet flew over his head then he saw a good place to hide. “ I got to get there,” Ha said “3 2 1” Ha said. He climbed out of the trench he was hiding in and ran. Drat drat bullets were heading for him. He quickly retaliated fire and continued to run in a zig zag. “Uuuugh '' he grunted he was just shot. “Get him boys' ' a guy shouted and they charged at him. He quickly ducked and hit a guy still continuing to run. He was so close then blackout. “ Ha '' Yorokobi screamed.
3 hours later “what happened” ha said “Yorokobi” he said “Ha you’re ok” Yorokobi said “hold the aahhh” he said before being shot by a fury of bullets. “5 minutes remaining” a voice said. “They got though the ahh” a man shouted
“What what happened” Shirudo yelled “what did you do to get here” a boy said “None of your business” Shirudo said “ i’ll ask you again what did you do” the young man walked out of the shadow to reveal a scar running from the bottom of his eye to his neck. “Fine, killed a guard, '' Shirudo said. “Start a riot” the boy said. “The name xex” he said “Shirudo” Shirudo said “it’s ok you guys can come out” Xex a dark tan skin.said. 2 boys and 1 girl appeared out of the shadow. This is Teck, Pj, and twilight. “More friends' ' the little girl twilight said. “There's more” Shirudo asked curiously. “Of course we’re not gonna start a war alone” Teck said. “A war” Shirudo shouted “Yes, now keep it down” Xex hushed “Come with me” Pj said he gestured towards the wall. They both walked towards the wall. Pj pushed 3 bolts banged against the wall and said ghost.the wall opened up to reveal a small tunnel leading down and a ragged soldier.
“What's going on?” Ha said. “No time to explain here,” Yorokobi said, tossing Ha his Sword gun hybrid. “Time to go,” Yorokobi shouted. “30 seconds remaining” a voice said. “Bombie boys get th--” the strange man said before being engulfed in flames. “AAAAhhhh” the strange man screamed before dying his injuries. A loud boom erupted filling the air with fire. “ Take cover”, Ha shouted.
They walked till they came to a small door. Xex opened the door. “Welcome to ghosts” Xex said. “Wow” Shirudo admired “we’re not starting a war we’re busting out everyone out” Xex explained
“You see the mine here supplying ore to the red automation” Teck jumped in “who are they” Shirudo asked “ you might know them as the forgotten” Xex said. For Shirudo time stopped and he was in the grasp of the ones who ruined their lives and thanks to them he might never see the ones he love again. “Shirudo Shirudo” Xex yelled “who wait what” Shirudo sperted out “so do you want to join the fight” Pj asked. Shirudo thought I could bring vengeance to grandpa and fight those who brought pain to people. “I’ll join” He said “are you ---” Xex was about to finish “ I have made up my mind”
Shirudo declared “oh ok then” Xex reacted “So how are busting everyone out” Shirudo asked.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH” Shirudo screamed. Falling through a seemingly endless shaft “Oouch!” Shirudo yelled. The rope he was attached to yanked him back “Out of the way” Xex yelled “woooooohoooooo” Xex screamed the entire way down “when said i want to----” Shirudo was about to say. Thwack! “What was--” Shirudo was to say again before getting hit again
“Wha--’ Shirudo was about to finish before being cut off. “That was for screaming and yelling” Xex said “teamwork makes the dream works” Shirudo muttered
“OH My God your arm” Yorokobi screamed. She tore off part of the shirt revealing 3 bullet holes in his arm and blood everywhere. “NO NO someone help please?” Yorokobi begged with tears. “Stand back” a young man shouted quickly working on him
“Why are we doing this?” Shirudo asked “remember how this was supposed to be a last city” Xex explained “Yeah” Shirudo replied ambiguous still. “So safe” Xex continues “Oh right the cells” Shirudo ppiiikk “what what happened” Xex asked “Dude you facepalm so hard that you black out” Shirudo explained “so to the m.e.s we go” Xex said walking down the catwalk. “And what is that” Shirudo asked
“Help me” a voice screamed. “Help us Help us Help us” multiple voices scream now “I I can’t I can’t” He said trembling.
Drat drat “Bravo what's going on” Xex yelled at the radio “something must have gone wrong” Shirudo screamed. Rumble rumbled “What's going on?” Xex asked “look over there” Shirudo pointed towards the door. “Shirudo '' Xex roared. He ran over to where Shirudo fell.He tore away the shirt revealing no flesh but machine.
Something shifted in Xex. he ignored him and helped the unplanned evacuation. “Help me” Shirudo beg looking at Xex “Get up get up” a voice cried out “Who who is that”
Shirudo asked weakly. “It's me twilight” She responded with joy “I’m not leaving a friend behind hhmmff” Twilight said stubbornly “Twilight twil--” a familiar voice yelled before quickly being interrupted by a fury of bullets. The person hit the ground and revealed himself to be Xex. “Xex Xex '' Shirudo shouted amongst the gunfire. Ting ting then he felt something near his foot. The gear in his brain grinded he bear hugged and turned around from it.PPPhhhooom the thing he felt was a grenade. He and Twilight were sent flying and landed with a hard thud. “Twilight Shirudo!” Xex howled. Shirudo's head ringed and he got up but with the agonising pain he fell.He tried again but stopped when he saw a blurred image of someone. “Xex ''Shirudo blurted out. “Initiate and destroy '' A deep robotic voice vented. “Oh no Twilight” Shirudo howled in fear. Bang, it shifted the mood.The dust settled revealed Xex holding a gun toward the now lifeless robot. “Thanks” Shirudo thanked “Your welcome” Xex replied in a cold voice. “Now time to go” Xex continued. Xex helped Shirudo to one of the last sub pods. “Why are you guys still here?” Shirudo asked, looking at the multiple lifeless bodies lying around. “Engine gone silent” Xex responded coldly. “There you are the captain after the last firefight we couldn't find you” soldier yelled “Get them to the medbay '' Xex shouted “but” the soldier asked “Now”Xex yelled. “Right sir” The soldier replied with shock. “Engine up and running” Another soldier yelled from an upper catwalk. “Good now let's go” Xex replied. Shirudo looked around the launch bay. It was littered with small stations and families huddled together. “Time to go people '' a soldier shouted. Just like that everything was in motion the people and gear. “We have fixed your robotic nerves and-” Ting tong tang the automation ended the life of the doctor. “C'mon we gotta hold them off” Xex yelled. AAAAhhhhh Phooom bang bang boom the sounds of warfare. “First wave done” another soldier yelled.rumble rumble “what was that” Shirudo asked. Xex eyes got wider then he screamed “NO NO NO Get on the ship now” “what happening” Shirudo asked again “no time to explain there is a giant beast coming made out of blood and metal” Xex explained. “We can’t go yet” A mechanic yelled
“Why, is there a steel beast coming! How are we gonna go” Xex screamed “Pumps not ready maybe in 5 minutes” The mechanic yelled again. Rumble “what if we stall them?” Shirudo asked “ I am sending no man to die” Xex replied. “Then what do we do?” Shirudo asked. “We wait, It's a race against time and nothing will change it” Xex said. “All we do is hope we live to see another day” Xex said.
do asked. Xex eyes got wider then he screamed “NO NO NO Get on the ship now” “what happening” Shirudo asked again “no time to explain there is a giant beast coming made out of blood and metal” Xex explained. “We can’t go yet” A mechanic yelled
“Why, is there a steel beast coming! How are we gonna go” Xex screamed “Pumps not ready maybe in 5 minutes” The mechanic yelled again. Rumble “what if we stall them?” Shirudo asked “ I am sending no man to die” Xex replied. “Then what do we do?” Shirudo asked. “We wait, It's a race against time and nothing will change it” Xex said. “All we do is hope we live to see another day” Xex said.
Warfare Phantoms
Cling cong clang as the bullets batter against the truck. “Medic ! Medic ! Ahh” A man shouted before being shot by a fury of bullets. “ crackle This is battalion crackle 14 ahhhh”. “All personnel evacuate” A man on the radio screamed“oh my god” he said as a massive flying machine overhead “Drop the bomb” A deep inhuman voice can be heard on all frequencies then 2 bombs drop from the massive flying war ship “AAAAAAHHHH” the screams of the people who died a horrific death. And that is how the Mechanical war ended and most of the world.
“Grandpa Hiro, Yorokobi, Shirudo” The boy yelled as everyone looked at him with a strange face. “HA”a high pitched voice screamed. “Yorokobi there you are”He said joyfully.he saw over her shoulder a boy his age and an old man “Grandpa,Shirudo” he said as
He ran to hug them.As they ran Ha tripped and landed on top of Shirudo.seconds later The old man winded up then hit Ha in the head “you should be more careful next time”Grandpa Hiro said smiling ”HAHAHAHA” Shirudo laughed at Ha“There's only one of me dummy ”He screamed before wrestling with Shirudo at the train station.”Now time to head back home” Grandpa Hiro said.”Race you to the sky line”! Shirudo yelled. “Don’t forget about me” Yorokobi yelled as she ran to catch up with them. A few hours later “Hurry get to bed” Grandpa Hiro said They all went into their rooms. As Ha and Shirudo were about to enter. “Stop, It is about time you knew about your parents” Grandpa Hiro said. They all went down stairs to talk about it “As you know you never knew your parents but you can meet them” Grandpa Hiro said “What i can” Shirudo yelled in shock“I did and i thought it's time I told you” Grandpa Hiro said “But i’m so sorry i lied” He said “So Grandpa what was mom and dad like” Shirudo “your mother was my daughter, your dad was good fellow i knew i could trust him with my daughter your grandma”Grandpa Hiro paused “died during attack” Grandpa continue see your parents weren’t your normal merchants instead they were explorers,warriors, they let me decide when to tell you the truth when the time was right, so now's the time they might still alive.” Grandpa said, ”Now I'll go get some tea yo-- AAAHHH”Grandpa screamed “Grandpa” Ha and Shirudo yelled at the same time.Time seemed to freeze.suddenly siren blared loudly. A whisper of the night stormed the streets killing and destroying what they could. One of them got to Grandpa. The only thing that could be heard were screams can only be heard and tears can only be felt that day. They quickly left as the
7 years later
Shirudo scout around i’ll make camp with Yorokobi.As soon as they finished camp Ha sat down. “Is something wrong Ha” Yorokobi asked quietly. “Yes, remember the day” Ha said “ye--” Yorokobi “Mask now” Shirudo interrupted. “Fine” ha said putting on a mask a few seconds later“hello there” a stranger asked “What do you want?” Ha asked menacingly “Now, there brother lets see what he has to offer”Shirudo
“Now” the man whispered. Then total silence and darkness.
“What happened?” Ha asked, looking at his brother and sister who were still sleeping. “Shut up”A man outside the cage said
“Fine,” Ha muttered, going back to sleep. As they were 12 guards outside
2 days later of traveling “Up and adam a man yelled “what” Shirudo asked
“ the Fury Fire arena committee says your first match is in 15 min” The man yelled at Shirudo “Me” Shirudo asked “No the boy over there” the man said pointing at Ha “What about me” Shirudo asked “You’re going to the south labor camps” He said with a smirk “When” Shirudo asked “Now”The man said unlocking the door “No let go of me” Shirudo screamed “What's going on” Yorokobi said “Ha there taking Shirudo” Yorokobi yelled Ha raced to the doors window and screamed “Let go of my brother”. But it was too late they threw him into the truck and sped away. Seconds later The door swung open and 2 guards came in to take Ha to fight. “No you’re not taking Yorokobi too” Ha yelled “no, we’re here for you” one of the men said. Then pitch black.
They sped off south to the glowing sea. Later they reached the shore and got on a boat. And set sail to a fortress in the sea with multiple other people “What is this place” Shirudo asked “this place was supposed to be another last city it seems” an old man said.As soon as the old man finished the large boat hit something. “We’re here” a man shouted. “Welcome to The Blue Quarry now get to work” A fat man said from a tv. The guards turned and started to line every one up. “Why are we doing this” Shirudo yelled “Shut up” the guard in front of Shirudo said “No” shirudo said “What did you say” The guard said pulling his hand to his gun “I said -----” Shirudo was about to say.Then time seamlessly stopped a loud bang ended the time stop then a clang. “What” the guard screamed. Shirudo turned his head revealing the machinery under his skin and his dark red mechanical eye looking straight at him.Soon a squad tackled Shirudo and chained him up. “Send him to the cell block that’ll teach him” the guard said. Second after they began heading towards a different lift. But Shirudo lifted his leg above the guard head and locked it on his neck then twisted his leg ripping his head off and killing him instantly. He kept fighting the guard then crackled then darkness.A large man stood over Shirudo and looked at the guard. “Jackson you had one job if you can’t watch one 21 year old straggler then what about a revolution” the man said. He was looking at the young adult when he noticed the machinery under his skin. “ I want a clean up crew on lift 4 and a guard” he radioed.
“Let me out” Ha screamed. “It's no use” a voice said “what” Ha yelled “we’re gladiators here we have no power but to kill for entertainment” A man said appearing out of a shadow. “Who are you?” Ha asked “None of your business” The man said “Now if you want to live get equipped the fight about to start” The man said pointing to the armory “Fine” Ha said before walking towards the direction he pointed. “What to choose what to choose ahh got it” Ha said picking up a sword and a light submachine gun. 5 minutes later, gladiator to the field into armour.
“3 2 1” a strange voice said “Then a hum. “How am I here?” Ha said. Drat drat drat, clang, ppuurrrrf, Phooooom. “It's like a battlefield out here” Ha scream. Bullet flew over his head then he saw a good place to hide. “ I got to get there,” Ha said “3 2 1” Ha said. He climbed out of the trench he was hiding in and ran. Drat drat bullets were heading for him. He quickly retaliated fire and continued to run in a zig zag. “Uuuugh '' he grunted he was just shot. “Get him boys' ' a guy shouted and they charged at him. He quickly ducked and hit a guy still continuing to run. He was so close then blackout. “ Ha '' Yorokobi screamed.
3 hours later “what happened” ha said “Yorokobi” he said “Ha you’re ok” Yorokobi said “hold the aahhh” he said before being shot by a fury of bullets. “5 minutes remaining” a voice said. “They got though the ahh” a man shouted
“What what happened” Shirudo yelled “what did you do to get here” a boy said “None of your business” Shirudo said “ i’ll ask you again what did you do” the young man walked out of the shadow to reveal a scar running from the bottom of his eye to his neck. “Fine, killed a guard, '' Shirudo said. “Start a riot” the boy said. “The name xex” he said “Shirudo” Shirudo said “it’s ok you guys can come out” Xex a dark tan skin.said. 2 boys and 1 girl appeared out of the shadow. This is Teck, Pj, and twilight. “More friends' ' the little girl twilight said. “There's more” Shirudo asked curiously. “Of course we’re not gonna start a war alone” Teck said. “A war” Shirudo shouted “Yes, now keep it down” Xex hushed “Come with me” Pj said he gestured towards the wall. They both walked towards the wall. Pj pushed 3 bolts banged against the wall and said ghost.the wall opened up to reveal a small tunnel leading down and a ragged soldier.
“What's going on?” Ha said. “No time to explain here,” Yorokobi said, tossing Ha his Sword gun hybrid. “Time to go,” Yorokobi shouted. “30 seconds remaining” a voice said. “Bombie boys get th--” the strange man said before being engulfed in flames. “AAAAhhhh” the strange man screamed before dying his injuries. A loud boom erupted filling the air with fire. “ Take cover”, Ha shouted.
They walked till they came to a small door. Xex opened the door. “Welcome to ghosts” Xex said. “Wow” Shirudo admired “we’re not starting a war we’re busting out everyone out” Xex explained
“You see the mine here supplying ore to the red automation” Teck jumped in “who are they” Shirudo asked “ you might know them as the forgotten” Xex said. For Shirudo time stopped and he was in the grasp of the ones who ruined their lives and thanks to them he might never see the ones he love again. “Shirudo Shirudo” Xex yelled “who wait what” Shirudo sperted out “so do you want to join the fight” Pj asked. Shirudo thought I could bring vengeance to grandpa and fight those who brought pain to people. “I’ll join” He said “are you ---” Xex was about to finish “ I have made up my mind”
Shirudo declared “oh ok then” Xex reacted “So how are busting everyone out” Shirudo asked.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH” Shirudo screamed. Falling through a seemingly endless shaft “Oouch!” Shirudo yelled. The rope he was attached to yanked him back “Out of the way” Xex yelled “woooooohoooooo” Xex screamed the entire way down “when said i want to----” Shirudo was about to say. Thwack! “What was--” Shirudo was to say again before getting hit again
“Wha--’ Shirudo was about to finish before being cut off. “That was for screaming and yelling” Xex said “teamwork makes the dream works” Shirudo muttered
“OH My God your arm” Yorokobi screamed. She tore off part of the shirt revealing 3 bullet holes in his arm and blood everywhere. “NO NO someone help please?” Yorokobi begged with tears. “Stand back” a young man shouted quickly working on him
“Why are we doing this?” Shirudo asked “remember how this was supposed to be a last city” Xex explained “Yeah” Shirudo replied ambiguous still. “So safe” Xex continues “Oh right the cells” Shirudo ppiiikk “what what happened” Xex asked “Dude you facepalm so hard that you black out” Shirudo explained “so to the m.e.s we go” Xex said walking down the catwalk. “And what is that” Shirudo asked
“Help me” a voice screamed. “Help us Help us Help us” multiple voices scream now “I I can’t I can’t” He said trembling.
Drat drat “Bravo what's going on” Xex yelled at the radio “something must have gone wrong” Shirudo screamed. Rumble rumbled “What's going on?” Xex asked “look over there” Shirudo pointed towards the door. “Shirudo '' Xex roared. He ran over to where Shirudo fell.He tore away the shirt revealing no flesh but machine.
Something shifted in Xex. he ignored him and helped the unplanned evacuation. “Help me” Shirudo beg looking at Xex “Get up get up” a voice cried out “Who who is that”
Shirudo asked weakly. “It's me twilight” She responded with joy “I’m not leaving a friend behind hhmmff” Twilight said stubbornly “Twilight twil--” a familiar voice yelled before quickly being interrupted by a fury of bullets. The person hit the ground and revealed himself to be Xex. “Xex Xex '' Shirudo shouted amongst the gunfire. Ting ting then he felt something near his foot. The gear in his brain grinded he bear hugged and turned around from it.PPPhhhooom the thing he felt was a grenade. He and Twilight were sent flying and landed with a hard thud. “Twilight Shirudo!” Xex howled. Shirudo's head ringed and he got up but with the agonising pain he fell.He tried again but stopped when he saw a blurred image of someone. “Xex ''Shirudo blurted out. “Initiate and destroy '' A deep robotic voice vented. “Oh no Twilight” Shirudo howled in fear. Bang, it shifted the mood.The dust settled revealed Xex holding a gun toward the now lifeless robot. “Thanks” Shirudo thanked “Your welcome” Xex replied in a cold voice. “Now time to go” Xex continued. Xex helped Shirudo to one of the last sub pods. “Why are you guys still here?” Shirudo asked, looking at the multiple lifeless bodies lying around. “Engine gone silent” Xex responded coldly. “There you are the captain after the last firefight we couldn't find you” soldier yelled “Get them to the medbay '' Xex shouted “but” the soldier asked “Now”Xex yelled. “Right sir” The soldier replied with shock. “Engine up and running” Another soldier yelled from an upper catwalk. “Good now let's go” Xex replied. Shirudo looked around the launch bay. It was littered with small stations and families huddled together. “Time to go people '' a soldier shouted. Just like that everything was in motion the people and gear. “We have fixed your robotic nerves and-” Ting tong tang the automation ended the life of the doctor. “C'mon we gotta hold them off” Xex yelled. AAAAhhhhh Phooom bang bang boom the sounds of warfare. “First wave done” another soldier yelled.rumble rumble “what was that” Shirudo asked. Xex eyes got wider then he screamed “NO NO NO Get on the ship now” “what happening” Shirudo asked again “no time to explain there is a giant beast coming made out of blood and metal” Xex explained. “We can’t go yet” A mechanic yelled
“Why, is there a steel beast coming! How are we gonna go” Xex screamed “Pumps not ready maybe in 5 minutes” The mechanic yelled again. Rumble “what if we stall them?” Shirudo asked “ I am sending no man to die” Xex replied. “Then what do we do?” Shirudo asked. “We wait, It's a race against time and nothing will change it” Xex said. “All we do is hope we live to see another day” Xex said.
Warfare Phantoms
Cling cong clang as the bullets batter against the truck. “Medic ! Medic ! Ahh” A man shouted before being shot by a fury of bullets. “ crackle This is battalion crackle 14 ahhhh”. “All personnel evacuate” A man on the radio screamed“oh my god” he said as a massive flying machine overhead “Drop the bomb” A deep inhuman voice can be heard on all frequencies then 2 bombs drop from the massive flying war ship “AAAAAAHHHH” the screams of the people who died a horrific death. And that is how the Mechanical war ended and most of the world.
“Grandpa Hiro, Yorokobi, Shirudo” The boy yelled as everyone looked at him with a strange face. “HA”a high pitched voice screamed. “Yorokobi there you are”He said joyfully.he saw over her shoulder a boy his age and an old man “Grandpa,Shirudo” he said as
He ran to hug them.As they ran Ha tripped and landed on top of Shirudo.seconds later The old man winded up then hit Ha in the head “you should be more careful next time”Grandpa Hiro said smiling ”HAHAHAHA” Shirudo laughed at Ha“There's only one of me dummy ”He screamed before wrestling with Shirudo at the train station.”Now time to head back home” Grandpa Hiro said.”Race you to the sky line”! Shirudo yelled. “Don’t forget about me” Yorokobi yelled as she ran to catch up with them. A few hours later “Hurry get to bed” Grandpa Hiro said They all went into their rooms. As Ha and Shirudo were about to enter. “Stop, It is about time you knew about your parents” Grandpa Hiro said. They all went down stairs to talk about it “As you know you never knew your parents but you can meet them” Grandpa Hiro said “What i can” Shirudo yelled in shock“I did and i thought it's time I told you” Grandpa Hiro said “But i’m so sorry i lied” He said “So Grandpa what was mom and dad like” Shirudo “your mother was my daughter, your dad was good fellow i knew i could trust him with my daughter your grandma”Grandpa Hiro paused “died during attack” Grandpa continue see your parents weren’t your normal merchants instead they were explorers,warriors, they let me decide when to tell you the truth when the time was right, so now's the time they might still alive.” Grandpa said, ”Now I'll go get some tea yo-- AAAHHH”Grandpa screamed “Grandpa” Ha and Shirudo yelled at the same time.Time seemed to freeze.suddenly siren blared loudly. A whisper of the night stormed the streets killing and destroying what they could. One of them got to Grandpa. The only thing that could be heard were screams can only be heard and tears can only be felt that day. They quickly left as the
7 years later
Shirudo scout around i’ll make camp with Yorokobi.As soon as they finished camp Ha sat down. “Is something wrong Ha” Yorokobi asked quietly. “Yes, remember the day” Ha said “ye--” Yorokobi “Mask now” Shirudo interrupted. “Fine” ha said putting on a mask a few seconds later“hello there” a stranger asked “What do you want?” Ha asked menacingly “Now, there brother lets see what he has to offer”Shirudo
“Now” the man whispered. Then total silence and darkness.
“What happened?” Ha asked, looking at his brother and sister who were still sleeping. “Shut up”A man outside the cage said
“Fine,” Ha muttered, going back to sleep. As they were 12 guards outside
2 days later of traveling “Up and adam a man yelled “what” Shirudo asked
“ the Fury Fire arena committee says your first match is in 15 min” The man yelled at Shirudo “Me” Shirudo asked “No the boy over there” the man said pointing at Ha “What about me” Shirudo asked “You’re going to the south labor camps” He said with a smirk “When” Shirudo asked “Now”The man said unlocking the door “No let go of me” Shirudo screamed “What's going on” Yorokobi said “Ha there taking Shirudo” Yorokobi yelled Ha raced to the doors window and screamed “Let go of my brother”. But it was too late they threw him into the truck and sped away. Seconds later The door swung open and 2 guards came in to take Ha to fight. “No you’re not taking Yorokobi too” Ha yelled “no, we’re here for you” one of the men said. Then pitch black.
They sped off south to the glowing sea. Later they reached the shore and got on a boat. And set sail to a fortress in the sea with multiple other people “What is this place” Shirudo asked “this place was supposed to be another last city it seems” an old man said.As soon as the old man finished the large boat hit something. “We’re here” a man shouted. “Welcome to The Blue Quarry now get to work” A fat man said from a tv. The guards turned and started to line every one up. “Why are we doing this” Shirudo yelled “Shut up” the guard in front of Shirudo said “No” shirudo said “What did you say” The guard said pulling his hand to his gun “I said -----” Shirudo was about to say.Then time seamlessly stopped a loud bang ended the time stop then a clang. “What” the guard screamed. Shirudo turned his head revealing the machinery under his skin and his dark red mechanical eye looking straight at him.Soon a squad tackled Shirudo and chained him up. “Send him to the cell block that’ll teach him” the guard said. Second after they began heading towards a different lift. But Shirudo lifted his leg above the guard head and locked it on his neck then twisted his leg ripping his head off and killing him instantly. He kept fighting the guard then crackled then darkness.A large man stood over Shirudo and looked at the guard. “Jackson you had one job if you can’t watch one 21 year old straggler then what about a revolution” the man said. He was looking at the young adult when he noticed the machinery under his skin. “ I want a clean up crew on lift 4 and a guard” he radioed.
“Let me out” Ha screamed. “It's no use” a voice said “what” Ha yelled “we’re gladiators here we have no power but to kill for entertainment” A man said appearing out of a shadow. “Who are you?” Ha asked “None of your business” The man said “Now if you want to live get equipped the fight about to start” The man said pointing to the armory “Fine” Ha said before walking towards the direction he pointed. “What to choose what to choose ahh got it” Ha said picking up a sword and a light submachine gun. 5 minutes later, gladiator to the field into armour.
“3 2 1” a strange voice said “Then a hum. “How am I here?” Ha said. Drat drat drat, clang, ppuurrrrf, Phooooom. “It's like a battlefield out here” Ha scream. Bullet flew over his head then he saw a good place to hide. “ I got to get there,” Ha said “3 2 1” Ha said. He climbed out of the trench he was hiding in and ran. Drat drat bullets were heading for him. He quickly retaliated fire and continued to run in a zig zag. “Uuuugh '' he grunted he was just shot. “Get him boys' ' a guy shouted and they charged at him. He quickly ducked and hit a guy still continuing to run. He was so close then blackout. “ Ha '' Yorokobi screamed.
3 hours later “what happened” ha said “Yorokobi” he said “Ha you’re ok” Yorokobi said “hold the aahhh” he said before being shot by a fury of bullets. “5 minutes remaining” a voice said. “They got though the ahh” a man shouted
“What what happened” Shirudo yelled “what did you do to get here” a boy said “None of your business” Shirudo said “ i’ll ask you again what did you do” the young man walked out of the shadow to reveal a scar running from the bottom of his eye to his neck. “Fine, killed a guard, '' Shirudo said. “Start a riot” the boy said. “The name xex” he said “Shirudo” Shirudo said “it’s ok you guys can come out” Xex a dark tan skin.said. 2 boys and 1 girl appeared out of the shadow. This is Teck, Pj, and twilight. “More friends' ' the little girl twilight said. “There's more” Shirudo asked curiously. “Of course we’re not gonna start a war alone” Teck said. “A war” Shirudo shouted “Yes, now keep it down” Xex hushed “Come with me” Pj said he gestured towards the wall. They both walked towards the wall. Pj pushed 3 bolts banged against the wall and said ghost.the wall opened up to reveal a small tunnel leading down and a ragged soldier.
“What's going on?” Ha said. “No time to explain here,” Yorokobi said, tossing Ha his Sword gun hybrid. “Time to go,” Yorokobi shouted. “30 seconds remaining” a voice said. “Bombie boys get th--” the strange man said before being engulfed in flames. “AAAAhhhh” the strange man screamed before dying his injuries. A loud boom erupted filling the air with fire. “ Take cover”, Ha shouted.
They walked till they came to a small door. Xex opened the door. “Welcome to ghosts” Xex said. “Wow” Shirudo admired “we’re not starting a war we’re busting out everyone out” Xex explained
“You see the mine here supplying ore to the red automation” Teck jumped in “who are they” Shirudo asked “ you might know them as the forgotten” Xex said. For Shirudo time stopped and he was in the grasp of the ones who ruined their lives and thanks to them he might never see the ones he love again. “Shirudo Shirudo” Xex yelled “who wait what” Shirudo sperted out “so do you want to join the fight” Pj asked. Shirudo thought I could bring vengeance to grandpa and fight those who brought pain to people. “I’ll join” He said “are you ---” Xex was about to finish “ I have made up my mind”
Shirudo declared “oh ok then” Xex reacted “So how are busting everyone out” Shirudo asked.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH” Shirudo screamed. Falling through a seemingly endless shaft “Oouch!” Shirudo yelled. The rope he was attached to yanked him back “Out of the way” Xex yelled “woooooohoooooo” Xex screamed the entire way down “when said i want to----” Shirudo was about to say. Thwack! “What was--” Shirudo was to say again before getting hit again
“Wha--’ Shirudo was about to finish before being cut off. “That was for screaming and yelling” Xex said “teamwork makes the dream works” Shirudo muttered
“OH My God your arm” Yorokobi screamed. She tore off part of the shirt revealing 3 bullet holes in his arm and blood everywhere. “NO NO someone help please?” Yorokobi begged with tears. “Stand back” a young man shouted quickly working on him
“Why are we doing this?” Shirudo asked “remember how this was supposed to be a last city” Xex explained “Yeah” Shirudo replied ambiguous still. “So safe” Xex continues “Oh right the cells” Shirudo ppiiikk “what what happened” Xex asked “Dude you facepalm so hard that you black out” Shirudo explained “so to the m.e.s we go” Xex said walking down the catwalk. “And what is that” Shirudo asked
“Help me” a voice screamed. “Help us Help us Help us” multiple voices scream now “I I can’t I can’t” He said trembling.
Drat drat “Bravo what's going on” Xex yelled at the radio “something must have gone wrong” Shirudo screamed. Rumble rumbled “What's going on?” Xex asked “look over there” Shirudo pointed towards the door. “Shirudo '' Xex roared. He ran over to where Shirudo fell.He tore away the shirt revealing no flesh but machine.
Something shifted in Xex. he ignored him and helped the unplanned evacuation. “Help me” Shirudo beg looking at Xex “Get up get up” a voice cried out “Who who is that”
Shirudo asked weakly. “It's me twilight” She responded with joy “I’m not leaving a friend behind hhmmff” Twilight said stubbornly “Twilight twil--” a familiar voice yelled before quickly being interrupted by a fury of bullets. The person hit the ground and revealed himself to be Xex. “Xex Xex '' Shirudo shouted amongst the gunfire. Ting ting then he felt something near his foot. The gear in his brain grinded he bear hugged and turned around from it.PPPhhhooom the thing he felt was a grenade. He and Twilight were sent flying and landed with a hard thud. “Twilight Shirudo!” Xex howled. Shirudo's head ringed and he got up but with the agonising pain he fell.He tried again but stopped when he saw a blurred image of someone. “Xex ''Shirudo blurted out. “Initiate and destroy '' A deep robotic voice vented. “Oh no Twilight” Shirudo howled in fear. Bang, it shifted the mood.The dust settled revealed Xex holding a gun toward the now lifeless robot. “Thanks” Shirudo thanked “Your welcome” Xex replied in a cold voice. “Now time to go” Xex continued. Xex helped Shirudo to one of the last sub pods. “Why are you guys still here?” Shirudo asked, looking at the multiple lifeless bodies lying around. “Engine gone silent” Xex responded coldly. “There you are the captain after the last firefight we couldn't find you” soldier yelled “Get them to the medbay '' Xex shouted “but” the soldier asked “Now”Xex yelled. “Right sir” The soldier replied with shock. “Engine up and running” Another soldier yelled from an upper catwalk. “Good now let's go” Xex replied. Shirudo looked around the launch bay. It was littered with small stations and families huddled together. “Time to go people '' a soldier shouted. Just like that everything was in motion the people and gear. “We have fixed your robotic nerves and-” Ting tong tang the automation ended the life of the doctor. “C'mon we gotta hold them off” Xex yelled. AAAAhhhhh Phooom bang bang boom the sounds of warfare. “First wave done” another soldier yelled.rumble rumble “what was that” Shirudo asked. Xex eyes got wider then he screamed “NO NO NO Get on the ship now” “what happening” Shirudo asked again “no time to explain there is a giant beast coming made out of blood and metal” Xex explained. “We can’t go yet” A mechanic yelled
“Why, is there a steel beast coming! How are we gonna go” Xex screamed “Pumps not ready maybe in 5 minutes” The mechanic yelled again. Rumble “what if we stall them?” Shirudo asked “ I am sending no man to die” Xex replied. “Then what do we do?” Shirudo asked. “We wait, It's a race against time and nothing will change it” Xex said. “All we do is hope we live to see another day” Xex said.
Warfare Phantoms
Cling cong clang as the bullets batter against the truck. “Medic ! Medic ! Ahh” A man shouted before being shot by a fury of bullets. “ crackle This is battalion crackle 14 ahhhh”. “All personnel evacuate” A man on the radio screamed“oh my god” he said as a massive flying machine overhead “Drop the bomb” A deep inhuman voice can be heard on all frequencies then 2 bombs drop from the massive flying war ship “AAAAAAHHHH” the screams of the people who died a horrific death. And that is how the Mechanical war ended and most of the world.
“Grandpa Hiro, Yorokobi, Shirudo” The boy yelled as everyone looked at him with a strange face. “HA”a high pitched voice screamed. “Yorokobi there you are”He said joyfully.he saw over her shoulder a boy his age and an old man “Grandpa,Shirudo” he said as
He ran to hug them.As they ran Ha tripped and landed on top of Shirudo.seconds later The old man winded up then hit Ha in the head “you should be more careful next time”Grandpa Hiro said smiling ”HAHAHAHA” Shirudo laughed at Ha“There's only one of me dummy ”He screamed before wrestling with Shirudo at the train station.”Now time to head back home” Grandpa Hiro said.”Race you to the sky line”! Shirudo yelled. “Don’t forget about me” Yorokobi yelled as she ran to catch up with them. A few hours later “Hurry get to bed” Grandpa Hiro said They all went into their rooms. As Ha and Shirudo were about to enter. “Stop, It is about time you knew about your parents” Grandpa Hiro said. They all went down stairs to talk about it “As you know you never knew your parents but you can meet them” Grandpa Hiro said “What i can” Shirudo yelled in shock“I did and i thought it's time I told you” Grandpa Hiro said “But i’m so sorry i lied” He said “So Grandpa what was mom and dad like” Shirudo “your mother was my daughter, your dad was good fellow i knew i could trust him with my daughter your grandma”Grandpa Hiro paused “died during attack” Grandpa continue see your parents weren’t your normal merchants instead they were explorers,warriors, they let me decide when to tell you the truth when the time was right, so now's the time they might still alive.” Grandpa said, ”Now I'll go get some tea yo-- AAAHHH”Grandpa screamed “Grandpa” Ha and Shirudo yelled at the same time.Time seemed to freeze.suddenly siren blared loudly. A whisper of the night stormed the streets killing and destroying what they could. One of them got to Grandpa. The only thing that could be heard were screams can only be heard and tears can only be felt that day. They quickly left as the
7 years later
Shirudo scout around i’ll make camp with Yorokobi.As soon as they finished camp Ha sat down. “Is something wrong Ha” Yorokobi asked quietly. “Yes, remember the day” Ha said “ye--” Yorokobi “Mask now” Shirudo interrupted. “Fine” ha said putting on a mask a few seconds later“hello there” a stranger asked “What do you want?” Ha asked menacingly “Now, there brother lets see what he has to offer”Shirudo
“Now” the man whispered. Then total silence and darkness.
“What happened?” Ha asked, looking at his brother and sister who were still sleeping. “Shut up”A man outside the cage said
“Fine,” Ha muttered, going back to sleep. As they were 12 guards outside
2 days later of traveling “Up and adam a man yelled “what” Shirudo asked
“ the Fury Fire arena committee says your first match is in 15 min” The man yelled at Shirudo “Me” Shirudo asked “No the boy over there” the man said pointing at Ha “What about me” Shirudo asked “You’re going to the south labor camps” He said with a smirk “When” Shirudo asked “Now”The man said unlocking the door “No let go of me” Shirudo screamed “What's going on” Yorokobi said “Ha there taking Shirudo” Yorokobi yelled Ha raced to the doors window and screamed “Let go of my brother”. But it was too late they threw him into the truck and sped away. Seconds later The door swung open and 2 guards came in to take Ha to fight. “No you’re not taking Yorokobi too” Ha yelled “no, we’re here for you” one of the men said. Then pitch black.
They sped off south to the glowing sea. Later they reached the shore and got on a boat. And set sail to a fortress in the sea with multiple other people “What is this place” Shirudo asked “this place was supposed to be another last city it seems” an old man said.As soon as the old man finished the large boat hit something. “We’re here” a man shouted. “Welcome to The Blue Quarry now get to work” A fat man said from a tv. The guards turned and started to line every one up. “Why are we doing this” Shirudo yelled “Shut up” the guard in front of Shirudo said “No” shirudo said “What did you say” The guard said pulling his hand to his gun “I said -----” Shirudo was about to say.Then time seamlessly stopped a loud bang ended the time stop then a clang. “What” the guard screamed. Shirudo turned his head revealing the machinery under his skin and his dark red mechanical eye looking straight at him.Soon a squad tackled Shirudo and chained him up. “Send him to the cell block that’ll teach him” the guard said. Second after they began heading towards a different lift. But Shirudo lifted his leg above the guard head and locked it on his neck then twisted his leg ripping his head off and killing him instantly. He kept fighting the guard then crackled then darkness.A large man stood over Shirudo and looked at the guard. “Jackson you had one job if you can’t watch one 21 year old straggler then what about a revolution” the man said. He was looking at the young adult when he noticed the machinery under his skin. “ I want a clean up crew on lift 4 and a guard” he radioed.
“Let me out” Ha screamed. “It's no use” a voice said “what” Ha yelled “we’re gladiators here we have no power but to kill for entertainment” A man said appearing out of a shadow. “Who are you?” Ha asked “None of your business” The man said “Now if you want to live get equipped the fight about to start” The man said pointing to the armory “Fine” Ha said before walking towards the direction he pointed. “What to choose what to choose ahh got it” Ha said picking up a sword and a light submachine gun. 5 minutes later, gladiator to the field into armour.
“3 2 1” a strange voice said “Then a hum. “How am I here?” Ha said. Drat drat drat, clang, ppuurrrrf, Phooooom. “It's like a battlefield out here” Ha scream. Bullet flew over his head then he saw a good place to hide. “ I got to get there,” Ha said “3 2 1” Ha said. He climbed out of the trench he was hiding in and ran. Drat drat bullets were heading for him. He quickly retaliated fire and continued to run in a zig zag. “Uuuugh '' he grunted he was just shot. “Get him boys' ' a guy shouted and they charged at him. He quickly ducked and hit a guy still continuing to run. He was so close then blackout. “ Ha '' Yorokobi screamed.
3 hours later “what happened” ha said “Yorokobi” he said “Ha you’re ok” Yorokobi said “hold the aahhh” he said before being shot by a fury of bullets. “5 minutes remaining” a voice said. “They got though the ahh” a man shouted
“What what happened” Shirudo yelled “what did you do to get here” a boy said “None of your business” Shirudo said “ i’ll ask you again what did you do” the young man walked out of the shadow to reveal a scar running from the bottom of his eye to his neck. “Fine, killed a guard, '' Shirudo said. “Start a riot” the boy said. “The name xex” he said “Shirudo” Shirudo said “it’s ok you guys can come out” Xex a dark tan skin.said. 2 boys and 1 girl appeared out of the shadow. This is Teck, Pj, and twilight. “More friends' ' the little girl twilight said. “There's more” Shirudo asked curiously. “Of course we’re not gonna start a war alone” Teck said. “A war” Shirudo shouted “Yes, now keep it down” Xex hushed “Come with me” Pj said he gestured towards the wall. They both walked towards the wall. Pj pushed 3 bolts banged against the wall and said ghost.the wall opened up to reveal a small tunnel leading down and a ragged soldier.
“What's going on?” Ha said. “No time to explain here,” Yorokobi said, tossing Ha his Sword gun hybrid. “Time to go,” Yorokobi shouted. “30 seconds remaining” a voice said. “Bombie boys get th--” the strange man said before being engulfed in flames. “AAAAhhhh” the strange man screamed before dying his injuries. A loud boom erupted filling the air with fire. “ Take cover”, Ha shouted.
They walked till they came to a small door. Xex opened the door. “Welcome to ghosts” Xex said. “Wow” Shirudo admired “we’re not starting a war we’re busting out everyone out” Xex explained
“You see the mine here supplying ore to the red automation” Teck jumped in “who are they” Shirudo asked “ you might know them as the forgotten” Xex said. For Shirudo time stopped and he was in the grasp of the ones who ruined their lives and thanks to them he might never see the ones he love again. “Shirudo Shirudo” Xex yelled “who wait what” Shirudo sperted out “so do you want to join the fight” Pj asked. Shirudo thought I could bring vengeance to grandpa and fight those who brought pain to people. “I’ll join” He said “are you ---” Xex was about to finish “ I have made up my mind”
Shirudo declared “oh ok then” Xex reacted “So how are busting everyone out” Shirudo asked.
“AAAAAAAAAHHHHHH” Shirudo screamed. Falling through a seemingly endless shaft “Oouch!” Shirudo yelled. The rope he was attached to yanked him back “Out of the way” Xex yelled “woooooohoooooo” Xex screamed the entire way down “when said i want to----” Shirudo was about to say. Thwack! “What was--” Shirudo was to say again before getting hit again
“Wha--’ Shirudo was about to finish before being cut off. “That was for screaming and yelling” Xex said “teamwork makes the dream works” Shirudo muttered
“OH My God your arm” Yorokobi screamed. She tore off part of the shirt revealing 3 bullet holes in his arm and blood everywhere. “NO NO someone help please?” Yorokobi begged with tears. “Stand back” a young man shouted quickly working on him
“Why are we doing this?” Shirudo asked “remember how this was supposed to be a last city” Xex explained “Yeah” Shirudo replied ambiguous still. “So safe” Xex continues “Oh right the cells” Shirudo ppiiikk “what what happened” Xex asked “Dude you facepalm so hard that you black out” Shirudo explained “so to the m.e.s we go” Xex said walking down the catwalk. “And what is that” Shirudo asked
“Help me” a voice screamed. “Help us Help us Help us” multiple voices scream now “I I can’t I can’t” He said trembling.
Drat drat “Bravo what's going on” Xex yelled at the radio “something must have gone wrong” Shirudo screamed. Rumble rumbled “What's going on?” Xex asked “look over there” Shirudo pointed towards the door. “Shirudo '' Xex roared. He ran over to where Shirudo fell.He tore away the shirt revealing no flesh but machine.
Something shifted in Xex. he ignored him and helped the unplanned evacuation. “Help me” Shirudo beg looking at Xex “Get up get up” a voice cried out “Who who is that”
Shirudo asked weakly. “It's me twilight” She responded with joy “I’m not leaving a friend behind hhmmff” Twilight said stubbornly “Twilight twil--” a familiar voice yelled before quickly being interrupted by a fury of bullets. The person hit the ground and revealed himself to be Xex. “Xex Xex '' Shirudo shouted amongst the gunfire. Ting ting then he felt something near his foot. The gear in his brain grinded he bear hugged and turned around from it.PPPhhhooom the thing he felt was a grenade. He and Twilight were sent flying and landed with a hard thud. “Twilight Shirudo!” Xex howled. Shirudo's head ringed and he got up but with the agonising pain he fell.He tried again but stopped when he saw a blurred image of someone. “Xex ''Shirudo blurted out. “Initiate and destroy '' A deep robotic voice vented. “Oh no Twilight” Shirudo howled in fear. Bang, it shifted the mood.The dust settled revealed Xex holding a gun toward the now lifeless robot. “Thanks” Shirudo thanked “Your welcome” Xex replied in a cold voice. “Now time to go” Xex continued. Xex helped Shirudo to one of the last sub pods. “Why are you guys still here?” Shirudo asked, looking at the multiple lifeless bodies lying around. “Engine gone silent” Xex responded coldly. “There you are the captain after the last firefight we couldn't find you” soldier yelled “Get them to the medbay '' Xex shouted “but” the soldier asked “Now”Xex yelled. “Right sir” The soldier replied with shock. “Engine up and running” Another soldier yelled from an upper catwalk. “Good now let's go” Xex replied. Shirudo looked around the launch bay. It was littered with small stations and families huddled together. “Time to go people '' a soldier shouted. Just like that everything was in motion the people and gear. “We have fixed your robotic nerves and-” Ting tong tang the automation ended the life of the doctor. “C'mon we gotta hold them off” Xex yelled. AAAAhhhhh Phooom bang bang boom the sounds of warfare. “First wave done” another soldier yelled.rumble rumble “what was that” Shirudo asked. Xex eyes got wider then he screamed “NO NO NO Get on the ship now” “what happening” Shirudo asked again “no time to explain there is a giant beast coming made out of blood and metal” Xex explained. “We can’t go yet” A mechanic yelled
“Why, is there a steel beast coming! How are we gonna go” Xex screamed “Pumps not ready maybe in 5 minutes” The mechanic yelled again. Rumble “what if we stall them?” Shirudo asked “ I am sending no man to die” Xex replied. “Then what do we do?” Shirudo asked. “We wait, It's a race against time and nothing will change it” Xex said. “All we do is hope we live to see another day” Xex said.
1312 - Vilentia Valley, Eastern Kingdoms of Miriza
Yesterday was supposed to be my last day.
They came for me when I was at my weakest. It was when I least expected it and when they knew no one would bother to come join me. It happened when I was alone for once. For once.
I know why they wanted me. I also know why they cared that I was still alive and well. They wanted me dead. They wanted to get rid of me because of who I am.
A century before my parents were crowned the king and queen of Vilentia Valley, there was a certain coincidence that would forever change my family’s bloodline. The tenth ruler of Vilentia will turn to the unforgiven side. It doesn’t matter how good-hearted or faithful of a Queen or King, it will happen. It’s what the people have been murmuring about ever since my birth day. The crown princess of Vilentia is evil. Cassiopeia Amethyst Junia, Princess of Vilentia, is going to turn against us. The next Queen. Me. I have also heard that it is just a silly rumour to scare us and the people. I’ve always grown up with that rumour held tightly in my heart. Trying to believe that it’s true. After all, there is no real evidence that it is real. But I know what happened all those years ago. No amount of persuading could get me to believe the false rumors ever again. They are gone with my childhood. Forever.
Vilentia Valleys was still a part of the Khankin Kingdom at the time. King Tyrone Leo Junia of Khankin was coming to the end of his days. His son, Prince Leo Junia would soon take his place as King. There was a rumour that had been spreading around over the last decade, it was about the King himself. The most common version of this rumour was that King Tyrone had the ability to predict the future. Some rumours were that he could change the future, and still other rumours said that if he died on an odd numbered day, then the tenth Queen or King of the bloodline would turn to the wicked side. Even some more unpopular whispers said that he had made a deal with the Oracle Goddess. Of course, these were only rumours. But then King Tyrone died. It wasn’t his death that sent dread throughout the kingdom, it was the date he died and his last words that sent the crowds into a frenzy of panic. The King died on February 9th and his last words were more of an order. “Kill the tenth.” Nothing to show affection for his son, nothing of gratitude or subtleness. Just “kill the tenth”. Then his heart stopped pumping blood, leaving King Leo to lead the Khankin Kingdom alongside his soon-to-be wife Queen Roseetta. Then, with all the fear and terror began to spread all over, the Kingdom of Khankin went into war and emerged as two different kingdoms. Vilentia Valleys was the smaller land to the North and the Kingdom of Pepitra became the larger piece of land of the South. The Junia bloodline continued to rule on the left in Vilentia, despite the horror of the previous King’s last words.
So here I am, lying on my back on a mattress in the cryptic halls of the castle. No way is my family going to be able to save me again now that they know what happened yesterday.
Yesterday.
It’s been talk that they might give the throne to my younger brother, Prince Eden, or even our younger sister, Princess Theodosia, who is only nine as of a month ago. But it wouldn't work because the rumour is that it’s the tenth ruler no matter what. Even if Eden became the next King, the curse- if it is a curse would still be active and Eden would be the one to turn to the other side- whatever that was. The royalty of Vilentia is still in danger and there is no way out of it. Not unless some exceedingly ignorant person decides to steal the throne right about now. Which is unlikely to happen, given the qualities of this person need to be overly specific. Determined. Ignorant. Need for power. Nescient. In other words, it’s not going to happen. Even if it did, the entire kingdom would fall apart.
I get up so I can see out the window more clearly. It’s snowing again. Like yesterday. It’s also windy enough that I can almost feel it on my skin as it blows through the tiny window. I couldn't stay back in my royal chambers due to the danger of being caught again. I’m much safer down here in the spare servants’ chambers in the basement. Even if it is cold and unfit for a princess like myself. I tried getting the guards to put me in a room with a better mattress. They just glanced at me once and escorted me back to the servants’ chambers where I am now.
I kick the chair beside my bed over with my feet. I listen to it clash violently on the tiled floor. Maybe I am destined to be evil after all. Or maybe it was the way I grew up being told that I would be evil someday, that drove my mind to follow through. As soon as the vibrating sound of the chair has stopped echoing all together, another sound reaches my ears. It's the footsteps of Daisy and Mona. My servants. My temporary servants for however long I have to stay here in hiding.
“Is there anything the matter?” Daisy’s soft voice reaches my ear before her head pokes in right after, followed by the door gently swinging open and some scuttering of shoes on the floor, which then reveal the rest of Daisy’s body and Mona right beside her.
“We heard a…” Mona looks at Daisy for guidance. She must be a new servant. How lucky for her to be serving the Crown Princess in a time like this. “Crash.” She smiles a bit more before continuing, “are you okay, your highness?”
“I’m fine.” I plaster a smile on my face, waiting for my servants to leave me alone again. But they don’t leave, closing the door behind them, or keep up their smiles. Daisy’s face falls first, then Mona’s smile falls into a half-hearted smile before dropping completely. I look between them, suddenly confused. What’s happening? Have they come for me again? Are they that scared of who I am destined to be?
“What happened?” I ask Daisy, as she studies the fallen chair.
“Who knocked this chair over?”
“The wind.” I say, even though I can tell by her expression that she knows it was me.
“The Queen and King would like your presence.” Mona says, clearly oblivious to the chair on its side. I instinctively swallow the leftover saliva sitting in my mouth.
“What about-” Daisy touches my hand lightly.
“Your highness.” I get up, letting them lead me away from the safety of the servants’ chambers. I swear they are already treating me like I’ve done something terrible. My servants lead me through the corridors and past other servants’ chambers with lingering servants. The halls down here are stuffy and smell of rain and freshly cooked food wafting from the kitchen as well as the hideous odor of rotting fish and dead meat from where they keep the meat before it ends up in the kitchen- or not if it’s too late. I scrunch my nose when we pass the double kitchen doors.
“If I’m allowed to wander the corridors without protection, why am I not allowed in my chambers?” I demand, looking expectantly at Daisy.
“Leave your questions to the Queen and King.” She says, “King’s orders.”
Of course. She’s probably not permitted to talk about it. I follow them around the twisted halls and up several flights of the all-too familiar stairs, then we’re already in the wing of the castle with the royal chambers. We pass Eden’s chamber first. He has two guards outside his doors instead of the usual one. Probably because of me. I think as we walk swiftly past the guards. Theodosia has two guards as well, while mine has the usual one guard. Cicero. I look to make sure they haven’t replaced him. The guard winks at me, but it’s not Cicero, it’s someone I don’t know. He must see my startled face because he goes back to a neutral face before anyone can notice. What is going on? Then, instead of walking forward, Daisy pushes my door open to reveal the King and Queen sitting on my bed, hunched in conversation. I must look like I’ve seen a ghost because everyone is now staring at me, expecting me to say something with the face I’m making.
“Princess Casseiopia.” Mona says, before leaving the room, followed by Daisy. Now I’m alone with the people who allowed yesterday to happen.
A shriek of laughter and giggles erupted from the dining room. It was hard not to admire how much fun the two girls were having despite the circumstances they were in.
The girls were both dressed in simple smocks that had elbow-length sleeves, providing the girls with the utmost comfort to play in..
They looked very different though, and if it weren't for their matching clothing, one would never be able to guess they were sisters.
The older sister, Cassandra had beautiful hair, but it was mostly hidden under her hat. She was a beautiful girl with pale lips tinted with the slightest of pink. Her eyes were a plain brown colour but the way she smiled lit up her face.
Jane, on the other side, hid her beauty. She knew well enough from hearing her parents talk it was obvious that a suitor was to be found for her in the near future. Jane thought that maybe they wouldn't be interested in her, but her attempts failed.
When she smiled, her lips stretched ever so slightly, and her eyes widened. She was a proper lady, as her mother would say. But one couldn't deny that Cassandra was one too.
Their fun was interrupted by Henry, the girl's brother, poking his head in the room.
"Mother wants to speak to you," he said with a soft smile to both girls, but his eyes were filled with sadness. Jane nodded and Henry led them both to the end of their small house.
Mother had cleaned the halls so much, it was as if a maid cleaned it. In the little income, they earned from Papa, they were able to save some over the course of a few years to decorate their house.
Large abstract paintings covered the walls, even though they were cheap and fake copies, they still made Jane smile when she saw them. As Cassandra, Henry and Jane walked through the halls they passed James, George, Francis, and Charles, the rest of her brothers.
Each one tousled her hair, and as unmannerly it was, she loved the bond they had.
Cassandra was the first to step into Mother's room. She was seated on her bed and Papa beside her. The girls both walked up to them and seated beside them.
"Are you guys done the packing?" Mother asked as she ran her fingers through Jane's tangled hair. Cassandra shook her head.
"Well, what are you waiting for! You guys are leaving tomorrow, and it's night already! I sure hope that will be enough time!" Mother walked both of the girls back to their room. Jane was so preoccupied with Cassandra, she hadn't noticed the bright sky covered in an inky midnight blue. Mother walked in promptly and then began scouring through their closet.
Cassandra and Jane shared a room, while the boys shared another. Jane was glad she had a decent room to only share with Cassandra. That way, they could keep it decorated however they wished since they had a very similar style.
Mother was a short plump woman. Every day she wore her finest of clothing as if she needed to impress someone.
Mother shared the same curious eyes as Jane as she picked out two of Jane's fanciest outfits, her court dresses.
Jane never fully understood how she managed to not rip them apart all the years she had them. They were stiff and provided no comfort. But she did have to admit, she looked pretty good in them. The elbow-length sleeves were covered with tiers of lace flounces, echoing the full-sleeved chemise.
Jane shuddered.
Oh, the hours of discomfort they'd bring!
Mother laid the dress onto the bed along with the rest of Jane's collection of muslins, petticoats, and waistcoats. The collection only consisted of six pairs of clothing, and Jane was glad. If there'd been anymore she'd be wearing ruffles and poofy skirts for the rest of her years!
For Cassandra, Mother picked out a series of gowns and corset laces. The bodices were tight and looked very uncomfortable.
Lastly, in the deepest depths of the closet, Mother found the shoes. A flashy gold colour made out of cheap material covered the shoe. It had a curved heel and looked way too big for Jane.
Jane accepted them from her Mother and laid them out with the other things.
"There! You girls should be dressed in your finest for Ms. Cawley!" Mother's words resulted in a sad scowl from Jane. She didn't want to leave her family, but at least she'd become a little bit more educated.
"Thank you, Mother!" Jane and Cassandra said in unison.
"Thank you is right! You're lucky we spend all this money on you!" Mother's voice had no hint of harshness, she spoke in a gentle way. As she left the room, she planted a kiss on Jane and Cassandra's foreheads.
"Now, you girls move those clothes into your suitcases!"
"Yes Mother," Cassandra replied as Jane fetched the suitcases from underneath their beds.
They were beaten up and in bad condition. Jane assumed they'd fall apart right away if they loaded it too much. But it as good for now.
Jane carefully folded each of her dresses into neat piles and put them into the suitcase, leaving half the space for Cassandra.
"Jane, you okay? You're excited to go to Ms. Cawley's, right?" asked Cassandra, her voice pressing with concern.
Jane sat down on her bed, straightening out her smock.
"Well, I'll miss everyone! Won't you?" she said, her thoughts drifting away. How would Ms. Cawley be like? Would she be nice? Or would she be evil like the people in the stories?
Jane realized how nervous she was.
"Of course, Jenny," Jane smiled, she loved it when Cassandra called her by her baby-name. "But, it'll be for the best. And besides, we'll be together. And you know, Papa and the boys can't teach us forever!"
Jane knew this was true. There was only so much the boys knew. And besides, they had better things to be doing than teaching their younger sisters.
Their conversation was interrupted by Henry. He walked into the room without knocking and sat onto Jane's bed.
"It's time for bed, girls," he said. Jane admired the way he hid his emotions for Jane, and the way he pretended all the problems of the world didn't exist at the same time he managed to be fun and realistic.
"Okay, Henry, would you mind staying with Jane and I to read a bedtime story?" asked Cassandra. It sounded childish when she said it, but Jane couldn't care less. Would it be their last bedtime story together? Jane sure hoped not.
"Of course not. I'll leave you guys to prepare for bed and I'll be back soon," said Henry, walking out the door, and shut it quietly behind him.
Cassandra zipped up the suitcase and stood it beside the door. She then proceeded to remove both her and Jane's nightgowns from their rack. She handed on to Jane.
Cassandra took her pajamas and left to change.
Jane locked the door behind her and slipped off her smock. As she slipped on the soft silky fabric of her nightgown she couldn't help herself as her thoughts drifted back to Ms. Crawley. She tightened the laces behind her to the correct amount of comfort. She unlocked the door and then laid in bed. The distance between her and Cassandra's bed was small but still wide enough for Henry to fit effortlessly.
She tried to sleep like a lady, but it was impossible as all she wanted to do was tangle herself in her sheets.
Just then, Cassandra and Henry walked in with a book in their hands. Jane smiled, giddy as she scooted over a little. Cassandra crawled into her bed, her nightgown getting caught in her sheets. Henry slept in between the two of them, half of his body on each one of their beds.
Henry opened the book, exposing a set of brightly illustrated pages.
Jane listened to every word until her eyes slowly began to close. She could only hear the faint words of Henry and Cassandra.
"Goodnight Cassandra. Goodnight Jane, I love you both," said Henry, his voice laced with care.
"Night Henry. Love you too," replied Cassandra, her voice reduced to a whisper, "Jane's asleep already,"
Henry nodded with a giggle and kissed Jane on the forehead before drawing the blinds and leaving them in darkness.
As Jane drifted off to sleep, one thought stayed in her mind, would she ever see her brothers again?
* * *
The morning came sooner than Jane had hoped. The shafts of light peeked through the spaces in the curtains, waking the girls up.
Cassandra yawned and stretched out her arms.
Jane's awaking wasn't as splendid. Jane touched the top of her head with her hand, a rough unsmooth surface met her hand. Was this her hair? She ran her fingers through her hair, only to have them stuck by a set of tangles.
"Cassandra, can you help?" asked Jane, scooting beside Cassandra.
Her sister nodded happily and sat behind Jane. She took a piece of her hair and began combing it through. Soon enough, the bird's nest was replaced by a smooth wave of hair.
"Thank you, Cass, I don't know what'd I'd do without you!" Jane said, sarcasm dripping from her voice.
Cassandra giggled and together both girls made their way to the kitchen.
It seemed that the rest of their family was awoken. Cups of coffee were placed onto the counter, the tap was running, forks and knives clanged into each other, and chairs were moved around.
Jane walked to her mother and began helping her with breakfast. Even though they couldn't afford a cook or any fancy ingredients, Mother with the help of Jane still managed to make a visually beautiful and tasty breakfast.
Today, Mother had plain pancakes stacked on top of each other.
Jane took each one and slathered a thin layer of syrup and butter. She topped it off with some strawberries and placed them onto the dining table. Her father and brothers wolfed them down and thanked Jane.
"Thank you, Jane! Now let's eat for ourselves, shall we?" Mother said. Her lips quirked into a smile.
Jane smiled back, and they walked to the table where Cassandra was sitting.
Cassandra smiled at Mother and Jane, but her smile didn't reach her eyes. Jane figured that she too was upset that today would be her last breakfast.
Jane took a seat beside Mother, and only a few minutes after beginning to eat, their plate was wiped clean.
When she got up, she saw Henry bringing down their suitcase. Jane thanked him, she desperately wanted a few seconds to talk to him before she left for Ms. Crawley's, but soon the whole family began crowding in the foyer.
"Girls, the transport will be here soon! You guys aren't even dressed for Pete's sake!" Mother's frantic voice echoed across their household.
Cassandra and Jane raced upstairs, their footsteps banging against the wood stairs.
"Jane, change into your fancy smock!" said Cassandra, using her motherly voice. Jane nodded and slipped off her smock from her hanger. She raced into the bathroom and slipped off her nightgown, then putting on her smock. It had little embroidered designs on it that itches her through the fabric. Jane tried not to be annoyed by it as she tied her hair behind her hat.
As she swung the door open, Cassandra was just finishing off too. She looked lovely in her floral pink smock, almost identical to Jane's except her hair was in luscious curls that sat regally on her shoulders.
When they reached the bottom step, her family awaited her, tears in their eyes. She could feel her own eyes tearing up.
"Come here, girls! I'll miss you so much! You be good for Ms. Crawley! And Cassandra, please take care of younger sister! Oh, my babies!" She wrapped her arms around both sisters. Her words were slushy and hard to make out from her sobs.
"You mustn't worry Mother! I'll take good care of Jane!" Cassandra's sophisticated voice sent Jane and her brothers in giggles.
Mother, who was still crying, managed a slight smile too.
Next, Papa came and game them both a kiss on the cheek.
"You shan't worry girls! Ms. Crawley is a wonderful lady, you'll both have a splendid time." Papa's goodbye was short, but his cheeks were puffy as he moved back making space for Jane's brothers to say goodbye.
James, George, Francis, and Charles goodbyes took a little more time
"Papa! Why can't we teach the girls? They'll be so lonely without us!" James wailed, sarcasm dripping from his voice.
"Jame's is right Papa," Charles said his voice breaking. "When will we see them again?" Charles's voice was mousy and hard to make out. The room was dubbed into silence before a chorus of fights broke out from her brothers.
"Papa, Mother, they're so young, you aren't really going to send them away?" Francis said as if the girls weren't in the same room as them.
Their pleas were silenced by Papa clearing his throat.
"Boys, we already talked about this! There is only so much you boys know! I know our beautiful girls will make us proud of the knowledge they bring home!"
Jane smiled at that. She would miss Papa and her brothers.
The boys took turns hugging Jane and tousling Cassandra's hair, which annoyed her very much.
Henry, who stood in the corner of the living room moved up. Tears were streaming down his cheeks. Jane could only imagine how much the boys would tease him for crying.
"You girls have a wonderful time! Don't forget me," Henry said. His words sounded the most mature, even though he was the youngest of the boys.
It finally occurred to Jane that she'd be going away. Her stomach churned with sadness as she gripped tightly onto Cassandra's hand.
Papa opened the door and outside was a sleek black car waiting for them. A chorus of goodbyes echoed off the walls as Jane stepped out.
She was ready to face the world.
I remember the day vividly. It was a cold November day, one with a wind that would carry secrets across the land. The trees looked like barren skeletons surrounding the hospital. “Ironic.” I thought, “skeletons bordering a hospital”. Snow lightly peppered the land, a hard ice snow, not like the type that you see mid-winter. In some places it surrounded the sides of the road like it was closing in, saying, “It's almost time…” in its icy embrace. I hadn’t packed gloves, and my fingers felt a brisk cold as we walked towards the hospital. The kind of cold you would expect in a New York November. The kind of cold that would latch on to any part of you that it could, with a death-like embrace. My boots clacked on the asphalt as I walked beside my father. I was captivated by its emptiness, it swallowed me up, taking me to a place I didn’t want to think about. I had always found hospitals daunting, and today was no exception. The red emergency sign glared at me, mocking me. I glanced at the cars around me and I wondered if they were there for a reason just like mine.
The doors of the hospital were automatic and almost welcomed us in. “This place, had it rolled out a red carpet for everyone that was unlucky enough to enter it?” I wondered. “How could a place that was so foreboding give such an embrace?”, I shivered. As I entered the hospital and immediately I was hit with the sterile smell of bleach. This smell, I knew, meant more than just someone had been cleaning the floor earlier. These thoughts hung over my head, a dark cloud that it seemed would always follow me around. No, it wasn’t fear, but something greater, for I knew what I was about to face. For months I had thought about this day, what it would look like, how I would feel. However, all of the days I imagined ended the same, in tears. I pondered why this was, as everyone has always said what was about to happen as a fact of life. If this was true, why did it seem like I was running straight towards a tsunami, towering a powerful? Why did I feel deprived of a voice every time that the thought circled my brain? I could feel the tears begin to swell in my eyes, making my vision blurry. I recognized voices around me, but I couldn’t hear their words. I turned to find that Dad was speaking to the lady at the desk. “How can she work in a place of such pain, of such sorrow?” I thought to myself, staring at her. Her face was rounded, her hair perfectly in place, and she had a smile that reminded me of my mothers at a time when my parents were together. I looked into her eyes, and I realized something, her smile was not that of welcome, but that of formality. When Dad had finished checking in he turned and saw me.
“It's okay Alex.” he expressed, placing his hand warmly on my shoulder, pulling me in. I wanted to, but I could not find comfort in it. We started down the hallway, the white walls trapping me, pushing me forward. I wanted to scream, to run, to throw a tantrum like a child. A child wouldn't have to go through this, because a child wouldn’t understand. It’s funny to think that I once wanted this, that I once craved days when I would be considered a teenager. Now the reality of what that really means haunts me. I didn’t realize that with age comes knowledge- and some things are better left unknown.
Just before a corner, I turned around to see the lady at the desk sitting at her computer, no one to check-in. Now there was not a smile to be seen.
We walked past operating rooms, x-rays, and doctors in a hurry to go wherever they were needed. I sank deeper into Dad’s coat, it a fleece windbreaker that read “Clarkson Golden Knights” on the back. I remembered a time when I was a girl, maybe about six, and Dad took me to a Clarkson hockey game. I loved the noise, the players, and I didn’t even care when I spilled my Gatorade on my lap. Mom sat beside me, with Dad on the opposite side. When Clarkson won I got so excited I fell asleep on the way home despite Mom and Dad’s arguing. I wished that day would never end, now all I wish is to have that blissful ignorance back.
Tears began to form rivers down my face as every step I took felt heavy. I could see people staring, and as a passed some older girls they whispered. I knew it was an ugly cry, but I also knew that these girls had no idea how I felt. I wanted this thought to make me feel better but it did the opposite. Then I knew that no one had any idea how I felt, even Dad who seemed to know everything sometimes. No one at school, none of the doctors I passed, not even my own mother could know how I felt. My cheeks felt hot, and Dad held me closer as we reached two doors with a sign that was cursed with the words “long-term patients” in black letters. I remembered reading once that black was the color of death, how peculiar it was even in a hospital. Dad’s hand reached out to push open the door, but he hesitated. He turned to me, gave me a hug, and I realized I wasn’t the only one who wasn’t ready for this.
Then he held my shoulders and said, “You are strong Alex, and I need you to remember that.” He wiped my tears and tucked my hair behind my ear.
“I will.” I squeaked through the lump in my throat. “I am strong. I can do this.” I told myself as Dad and I pushed the doors open together. “I am strong. I am strong. I am strong.” I repeated in my head as we walked past other people who had to be strong as well. I remember walking past a younger man, who was laboring to breathe. Suddenly I heard the beep of a heart monitor, and his line went flat. Then his chest deflated for the last time. A nurse rushed over, but I knew there was nothing she could do. I looked around the man, but he was alone with no family to speak of. The nurse used a stethoscope to try to find any life left in the deflated body and shook her head. “How could this man go without so much as a goodbye?” I asked myself. Then I knew why Dad had brought me here in the first place, to make sure that I was there. That was why he had told me to be strong, not for myself but one last time as I said goodbye.
Then I was there, Grandma, Dad, and I, all around the bed. I looked at Grandpa, he was there, but he was getting weaker. I remembered all the stories he had told me, how I could never beat him once at chess, learning how to perfect my golf swing, with him by my side, his gray hair shining in the sun. Memories flashed in my brain like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Thanksgivings when he would lead us in prayer, and always stock up on mashed potatoes. The Christmas when I got my guitar, and he showed me how to riff it. Then he smiled, a smile that I still hold with me to this day. I sat down in a chair beside his bed, he grabs my hand, and a tear rolls down my cheek.
“Till next time.” he smiled, and I hugged him.
With my head on his chest, I choked out through tears, “Till next time.”
I imagine him waiting, on a bench above the clouds, where he saves me a seat. Waiting for a time when we can see each other again.
For my grandpa; I can’t wait until a time when we can see each other again.
Elasticớs is a blur of bronze destruction.
My infantry sword slashes down foliage in a perilous arch, moonlight glinting off its razor blade, branches crashing at my bare feet. My dark braid whips through the air as I dance across the grove, wreaking havoc. The trunks of trees resist futilely, giving me nothing but meager scratches as I cut them down, never to raise a limb again.
I launch into the air, kick a trunk, and spin to cut a branch. Sweat drips into my eyes, obscuring my sight, but I can see well enough. Well enough to witness my imaginary foes drop to the ground, immobile. I slash through them, ducking branches and delivering my own blows while they—
“Adonia!”
I trip, startled, and lift my head to glare at Cayleigh. She pushes through the hanging branches, her white chiton tearing on their sharp ends and her feet stumbling over the greenery I sliced down. My friend’s sapphire eyes sparkle in the starlight, scanning the grove for me. I rise and stomp over.
“I told you,” I growl through gritted teeth. “My name is Atalanta.”
Cayleigh cowers, eyeing Elasticớs. “But—”
“Atalanta,” I repeat, my voice smooth as ice, burning cold. It seems as if people are physically incapable of calling me by my new name. Yes, my name had once been Adonia, but no more. I am certainly not the “beautiful lady” its meaning implies. No, I much prefer the name Atalanta, my role model, a heroine who had challenged all her suitors to a race—and killed them when she won. It is a much better name, one that fits me exceptionally well.
“Fine!” she cries, her eyes bloodshot. “Atalanta, have you not heard?”
“What?”
“The Athenians destroyed Melos!” She pulls at her braids. “The Melians resisted the siege and the Athenians—”
“—killed the men and enslaved the women,” I finish, hate igniting my insides. The Athenians are always furthering the evils of the Peloponnesian War, committing one ghastly deed after another. Now, annihilating our allies, the Melians, is the last straw.
Despite their reputation, Athens is a city state of lies and deceit. Oh, but we are the cradle of democracy, the Athenians exclaim. They simply forget to mention all the slaves they own and how their women are servants to their husbands, and that is only if they are lucky. If they are not, they will be sold into slavery by them. Athenian women can own no property, cannot go to the market, and are not allowed to leave the house unless their husbands allow it. Even their sons, no matter what age, are considered a higher authority than their mothers, and any male in the family is free to beat and sell the females as they wish.
Sparta, my home, is not much better, although women here are respected as the mothers of warriors. We can own property. We run the city when our men are at war.
But still, my father married me off to a man I had never met when I was a mere thirteen years old, although that problem was quickly resolved when my husband died in the war a year ago. I did not shed a tear.
With no children, I am the head of my house. I play a vulnerable widow during the day, although it nearly kills me to act so. At night, I take my husband’s leftover sword and armor and steal to the nearby grove to train. No mentor, no partner. Just me, my sword, and the moon, as if Artemis herself is guiding me.
As a result, my arms bulge with muscle, leaving even the toughest of Spartan men staring in shock at my biceps and comparing them to their own with dismay. My face is chiseled of hard lines and edges; my eyes are dark and merciless. You become tough when you live in Sparta—here boys are trained to be warriors from the age of seven, and girls chosen by Artemis, goddess of maidens, whip criminals at her altar to appease the immortal. That kind of nurturing childhood raises people such as I.
My whole life I have dreamed of joining the Spartan infantry and destroying our enemies, proving that women are to be respected as more than just the producers of men.
The siege of Melos will provoke an assault from us, I am sure. And I plan to be there.
“Thank you, Cayleigh,” I say, sheathing Elasticớs and removing my helmet.
Her jaw drops. “Thank you?” she repeats incredulously.
I grin at her, a rare occurrence. “The army just received a new foot soldier,” I declare, chills of anticipation running down my spine. “Me.”
***
I leave my home at dawn, my sword hidden in the folds of my skirts, my armor concealed beneath my dress, and a dagger hanging from my braided leather belt. I march with resolve to the towering temple of Ares, Sparta’s patron, the god of war and strength. Through the overcast day, a gap in the clouds swirls in an eddy, sending a beam of sunlight down on the temple as if from Olympus itself. The building gazes down on the rest of Sparta, resting on the highest hill to emphasize its superiority. It is there that I will show my own authority.
With my back straight and my head held high, I throw open the doors to the temple. Inside, just as I had expected, kneels a legion of Spartan warriors, all in full battle armor, paying their respect to Ares. Before the altar is their leader, Lysander, his plumed helmet blazing red against deep bronze.
I cross the threshold, my feet sending echoes through the room. The soldiers
obstinately keep their heads lowered, refusing to pay me any attention. By contrast, Lysander shoots to his feet, hand at his sheath.
Through the eyeholes of his helmet, irises of gray stone peer out at the world, full of treasures ripe for picking. His helmet is designed to make the wearer appear permanently scowling, and I have no doubt this man is frowning beneath the metal as well. His skin is the color of weathered bronze, his armor of combinations of scarlet and gold, his kilt of strips of metal and cloth. He opens his mouth as if to yell, but then instead grins a thin-lipped sneer, his curly black beard nearly secreting his countenance.
I drop to a knee, the military now openly staring at me with wide, astonished eyes.
“And who,” Lysander says, “are you to interrupt the legion in the midst of prayer? In a temple of Ares, no less.”
I keep my eyes lowered. “My name is Atalanta.” Several warriors snicker at the reference to the legendary hero. “I have come to prove my worth and join your ranks.”
Lysander says nothing, speechless at my nerve. “You, a girl of fifteen, join my ranks?” He laughs, a scratchy, hollow sound. “Where is your husband?”
“In the Underworld.”
“Rise girl.”
I stand, proud of myself for not shaking. I am not scared of this man. Only of the shame and dishonor I will receive if denied permission to fight for Sparta.
“Humor me,” Lysander says. “Why would you, a widowed housewife, wish to join the Spartan ranks?”
“To wreak vengeance on Athens,” I reply, my chin high and shoulders back. “To defend the honor of Sparta and destroy our enemies.”
“Understandable.” Lysander studies my physique. His eyes gleam surreptitiously. “But you are still a girl.”
“I am not weak.”
“But alas, there are no warriors with long, flowing hair,” Lysander says. “You had best scurry back home.”
Without a second though, I whip my dagger out of its sheath and slice off my hair at the base of my neck. My severed ebony braid falls limply at my feet like a coiled serpent. “Problem solved.”
“Ooohhhh…” the warriors chorus like a group of adolescent boys.
Lysander’s face remains stoic, although I suspect he is impressed. “You are prepared to prove your worth?”
“Yes, sir.”
Lysander gestures to their surroundings. “Well, we are in the Temple of Ares, so it would only be proper to test the strength of this girl, correct?”
The warriors nod their agreement, sharing clandestine smiles.
“And,” Lysander mutters, as if to himself, “Ares would appreciate another sacrifice.” He pauses and clasps his hands together. “A duel, then. You against my best fighter. Whoever cannot rise loses, and whoever remains standing longest wins.”
“Agreed,” I say.
“Xanthos!” Lysander calls. “Do you accept the challenge?”
A man of brawn and muscle, with stark blonde hair stands. “I accept!” he bellows.
“What weapons will you wield?” I question.
“My bare hands,” he growls.
“As will I.” Nearly all the warriors gape, insulted and astonished that I am challenging their honor so bluntly.
“Lysander,” I say, “if I win this duel by the rules you declared, I may join your infantry.”
“Yes,” he says, clearly impatient for the brawl to begin.
“Do you swear upon the River Styx?” I insist. Swearing on the River Styx, the Underworld river of hate, is a deadly vow, one no sane man would break. I hope Lysander is saner than he acts.
He grimaces, looking as if he now wishes he will be the one to fight me. “I swear on the River Styx,” he chokes out.
I pull my sword from my skirts and remove my dagger, prompting an amused smile from one soldier. I throw them aside, pleased with the challenge. Yes, it will be laborious, though I will be respected if I win. I smile and face Xanthos. “Let us begin.”
***
Xanthos barrels toward me, his armored arms extended to catch me should I try to run. But, as you may have observed, I never run.
His ugly face leering, Xanthos races forward while I stand still, seemingly easy prey. I cannot keep a grin from illuminating my face. As he brings his hands together to grasp me, I launch myself at the floor and roll beneath his grasp and away from him. He stumbles to a halt and turns to me, his face as burgundy as his kilt.
He comes at me again, slower this time, and throws a punch at my head, one that will send most people halfway to Thebes. I, not being a fan of Thebes, simply duck and come up behind him. While he is still off balance, I grab his armor straps and jerk them to the floor, bringing him crashing to the ground in an avalanche of metal and muscle. When he leaps back to his feet, I have already backed away, studying how he moves, how he fights.
The other warriors have risen and formed a ring around us, whispering bets to one another. I even hear someone bet in my favor. Smart for a man.
Xanthos stalks toward me with slow, deliberate steps. I bounce on my toes, full of energy, and go on the offensive, crossing the distance between us and kicking out my leg. On one foot, I fall backward into a roll and come up standing, launching into another tumble as Xanthos reaches for me. His back turned, I deliver three swift kicks to his behind. He spins, livid.
The spectators howl, appreciating the sight of the mighty Xanthos humbled. He snarls, and his hand shoots out and grabs my wrist before I can back away. He jerks me into him, nearly pulling my arm from its socket. I stumble forward but shift directions just enough to fall beyond him and struggle to my feet before he can down me.
It is time to end this duel.
For the final time, Xanthos rushes to me, his eyes relishing the taste of my defeat, my eyes savoring this moment of near triumph. He will reach me in three seconds…
Two seconds…
One second…
Now!
My foot shoots up, catching him on the throat moments before he would have tackled me. The yellow-haired warrior falls to the ground, his head bouncing on the marble, and finally resting still, unconscious.
Deliberately, serenely, I smooth my skirts and kneel beside him, my fingers searching for his pulse. Still strong. I rise and face Lysander.
“I have won your duel,” I proclaim, my voice reverberating throughout the temple. “Thus, I am now a warrior of the Spartan infantry.”
The silence is tangible. Hundreds of combatants ogle me, eyes popping from their heads and jaws straining to reach the floor. Lysander appears to be torn between newfound reverence and fury.
“I swore on the River Styx,” Lysander says. “You…” He grimaces, then looks up to Olympus in surrender. “You are now a Spartan warrior.”
“Ha!”
I glanced over to see the warrior that had bet on me. He accepts several drachma from a scowling man. “Tough females will be a great asset to the war,” he says. “I should know. I married one.”
Some men grudgingly agree, although many still stare at me as though I am the Calydonian Boar. No matter. I will prove myself again and again, until they all hold me in admiration. I will fight both for Sparta, and for womankind.
Through my conquests and victories, I will advocate for women and girls like me. I will teach them how to fight, how to be independent.
Because it is time the world understands that women are powerful. Some say women are emotional, weak things that need a man’s protection. But no. Women are strong. Women are brave. Women are intelligent. We need no protection. Women ought to fight side by side with men, for women fight with brains, not brawn, and are far more than just the mothers of warriors.
Women themselves are warriors.
We are all warriors.
It was the last day of 10th grade for Margo. She was ecstatic. It was about to be summer break and she was going to Greece with her family. But little did she know her life was about to take a turn for the worse.
The start of the day was pretty normal. She had all of her finals done so it was just a lot of free time which she spent with her friends and reading her favorite book “Of Mice and Men”. It was just around lunch time when the chaos started in the school.
During lunch, there was a text sent out to the students that there was a man inside the school. They weren't sure what to think and then all of the sudden the school went into lock down. There was a man in his late 30’s wandering the halls of school. The police caught the man and turned out he was mentally ill and had just escaped the mental institution. What they did not understand is who sent out the text. They went back to the school routine but at 1:00 p.m. everyone got another text with a picture of Margo with an X on her face. Her parents were called and they talked with Margo asking if someone wanted to hurt her. No one came to mind. They made sure she was okay and then she was sent home early.
Even though Margo said she was okay, she was very shaken by it. When Margo got home she just went to sleep. She woke up around 5:00 from her phone buzzing. Margo found out she was invited to her friend's party. She got up, got ready, and was out the door by 6:00pm. By the time she arrived at the party, she had forgotten all about what happend at school today. Margo was about to leave around 9:00 but then she thought she saw “HIM” but it was only her imagination. Margo called her dad to get her, unfortunately he was stuck at work on the night shift. She decided to stay at the party a little longer so she would forget about the incident at school today.
Margo finally left the party around 11:00 pm and started to walk home. She lived about a half a mile away, which is about a twenty minute walk. Within the first 3 minutes she felt like she was being watched. Margo decided to take the back road which is longer hoping to lose whoever was following her. In the next 10 minutes she was positive someone was following her.
Margo was now 5 minutes away from home when she heard someone behind her. Margo went to find her pepper spray, but it was too late! He had her! He knocked her out with a tree branch and he proceeded to take her to his warehouse. When she woke up, she was petrified.
“WHERE AM I? WHY ARE DOING THIS TO ME?” shouted Margo.
“You will find out soon enough!” Said a deep voice from the darkness.
Margo sat alone in the dark or so she thought. After about 30 minutes the lights came on. Margo saw a brightly colored wall with metal crates surrounding her. The only thing she could hear was the deep eerie sounds of her breathing. Soon after, came the footsteps and then he appeared from the crates!
“Who are you?” she exclaimed
“I am Nathon.” he whispered
“Are you the man that was at the school, the one who had the picture of me, and the one following me?” She said with tears in her eyes.
“Yes.” he said almost proudly.
“Why are you doing this to me?” she whimpered
“ NO TIME FOR THAT.” he yelled. “Here is a phone to call your father. Tell him if he wants you back unharmed he needs to pay the ransom of a million dollars and NOT get the cops involved! If he does, you will die.” He growled. Margo picks up the phone and calls. The phone rings 3 times before he picks up.
“Hello this is Max speaking.” says her father
“DAD! This man wants money to release me unharmed and you can not get the cops involved or I will die! Dad you have 3 days!” says Margo
However, before he can say anything Nathon grabs the phone and hangs up. Little did he know she called her father's work which saves conversations and you can trace the calls that are made from this line. Nathon walks away and turns the lights off again. About an hour later Margo hears a pounding from somewhere inside the warehouse. Nathon comes up from behind and knocks Margo out again. Then he puts her in the trunk of his car and drives away.
By the time the cops get into the warehouse all they find is the rope that he had tied her up with. By the time Margo wakes back up, she thinks she is in a basement and can feel the warmth of the sun from behind her. She wants to scream but her mouth is stuffed with a sock and covered in duct tape. Although Margo sees a tall dark figure back in the hidden space in the corner. It is Nathon and she knows it is. Nathon slowly walked in front of her, then crouches down in front of her at eye level and said,
“Why did you do that?”
“What did I do?” she questioned
“You got the cops involved” he says angrily
“How could I have done that!?” she yelled “I was tied up!” Margo was very confused.
“When you called your father! Uhhhh never mind! Call your father again and tell him he only has till dusk now. Oh and by the way, this time call his cell phone” he said.
Nathon would text Max throughout the day to make sure he knows what he has to do. Just before dusk Max only had half the money. Thank goodness Nathon did not know that. When Nathon got the money he did not let Margo free just yet. Instead he kept her locked up so he could make sure he got all the money that he asked for.
In about a day he had all the money counted and knew there was only half. So he got Max on the phone and told Margo to scream or else she would get hurt. Margo screamed as loud as she could. That made Max furious! He thought that Margo was hurt. Nathon wanted to make sure that he got all of his money before the day was over. Max was unable to pay any more money. So, slowly Nathon started to drown Margo, and right as she took her last breath Margo bursts up in her own bed.
It turns out that only half of that was really. The school being put into lockdown and the rest, well, was all in her dream from her nap after coming home early. Margo apparently was really traumatized from the lockdown that day. When Margo fell asleep her brain just made the rest up. After Margo told her father, they decided to have her see a psychologist. Hopefully, she could heal from the traumatic event. Therefore, after many years, Margo is living her best life but, sometimes it just slips back into her mind.