Destiny's Lament: Culmination

[Dark WotS]

All rights reserved. © 2006. Destiny's Lament: Culmination and everything herein (excluding characters belonging to Connor "Safer" Riley and Andrew "Bloodsword") are property of Matthew "Wielder" McCarroll. Use of these without express written permission is strictly prohibited.

Destiny’s Lament: Culmination
by Matthew R. McCarroll




Prologue


Emptiness rich as Heaven stretched forever in all directions, dotted with tiny pinpricks of light. This chamber’s corners and walls, cloaked in purest shadow, gave the impression that one stared into the blackness of space on a frighteningly thin platform of spotless glass. “Terrifying, yet glorious all at once,” was the phrase most often used to describe this legendary throne of gods: Aset.

“My Lord,” spoke a collected voice fair as silk, strong as mahogany, “it is soon now that your will must be done.”

From nowhere, a tone like thunder boomed: “You have done well, my emissary.”

“Your adversaries are wary. This One fears her Lord may be subject to Judgment. What will His Lordship have me do?”

The Heavens fell silent for a moment. Then: “Conceal yourself. Let not my foes look upon your face, for then I shall certainly be discovered.”

“How must this One hide her face, Lord?”

“Go to that place to which our most beloved subjects are gathered. There, you will carry on with what I have purposed. Should my enemies look upon you, child, you must terminate. For much is at stake; more than your life or mine.”

Silence again; then that fragile, commanding tone came once more. “So shall it be, My Lord.”


***


“Mommy!” echoed a girlish call throughout steel halls. “Mommy, look what I can do!” The owner of this voice sat at the foot of her mother’s bed, arms waving in excitement. Her dark velvet dress bounced as she dove onto the bed, crawling forward.

The one addressed as “mommy” looked up from an open book, satin locks sliding over slender shoulders, and could not restrain a feathery laugh. “What is it, dear?” she cooed, brown eyes shimmering.

The child clambered upon the bed and bounced to her feet. Then, with a grunt of concentration, she held her hands apart and focused intently. A lamp on the nightstand flickered, accompanied by the ceiling light moments later. Wholly absorbed in her task, the young girl seemed not to notice. The room became filled with a pale, blue spectrum, and in that moment, a small orb of glittering blue appeared between her hands.

The lightshow was over as swiftly as it began, but the girl beamed in satisfaction, looking to her mother expectantly.

“That’s wonderful, Terra!” praised the brown-eyed woman with an applause. “You’re showing so much control. Daddy would be very proud.” She smiled at her daughter.

It was hardly four months ago that Amy Keir’s husband passed away, slain by one of his most trusted comrades, Tokumaru Kyô, the Heavenflame Samurai, who aimed to achieve divinity. The man’s partner, an elven caster named Terrin Tankira, avenged him in that battle. Both Tokumaru and Blitz Keir died tragically, leaving behind not so much as a corpse. For all the blood spilt that day at the ruins of Castle T’lemenheim, Amy remained a widow.

“When is daddy coming home?” beamed the little girl.

Amy gave everything just to keep smiling and softly whispered, “Soon, sweetie. Daddy will come home soon.”

“How soon?”

Lying to the child was harder than not telling her the truth. Despite witnessing her father’s death, Terra had it in her head that Blitz was out on a mission. Innocence would not let Amy’s daughter remember, but the widow knew from those nightly visitations for weeks after his death that Blitz would return to the land of the living. All that could be done was to hope.

“Soon enough to kiss you goodnight.

“Now momma has some business she needs to take care of, darling.” Amy took her daughter’s cheeks and planted a quick kiss on her forehead. “Viscen will take care of you while I’m gone.”

Terra released a prolonged “alright,” and pouted her lips in an obvious attempt to seem pitiful.

Amy couldn’t help chuckling at such a cute face, but soon as she rose from the bed and started toward the door, the pale-skinned woman’s smile faded. I tell her soon, but how long must we wait? She upturned her head ever so slightly. “Are you there right now, watching?” she whispered.

The door hissed open and General Viscen Zeth was standing over her with a grim yet dutiful expression. “Why, yes, as a matter of fact. Amy, you’re late for duty again.”

“And you’re late for babysitting.”

He softened his face, gesturing with a clipboard and responding to the words written on Amy’s features. “Look, I know you’re still in poor condition. We all took it hard. But you were on leave for weeks, and the wards need your help.” He rested a broad, gentle hand on Amy’s shoulder. She glanced at it, then back to her superior’s face and returned the dutiful expression he arrived with.

“Of course, General. I was just out to my rounds.”

Slightly taken aback by her forwardness, Viscen released Amy’s shoulder. “Well, then,” he paused, fumbling for words, “carry on.”

The cleric snatched her white coat and nametag from a coat rack next to the door, slipped them on, and brushed past the officer calmly.

Viscen watched her go, giving the stubble on his chin a contemplative scratch. “What in the Celestials is going on with that girl?” With a shake of his head, the general turned his attention to Terra, who was staring at him in wide-eyed, childish wonder. He thrust his arms wide and rushed at her in a tackle. “Hey!” The girl squeaked gleefully as he wrapped his arms around her and swung her around, smiling ecstatically. “Been a while, kiddo. ‘Ow you doin’?”

“Momma gave me a stethoscope!” She grinned proudly, latching onto his strong arms. “It’s so cool! Wanna see, uncle Vice?”

The general laughed and set his self-proclaimed niece to her feet. “Sure thing, kid.”


***


The mess hall in this particular quadrant of Base 17 was crowded during the afternoon. In fact, it was crowded most of the time, but especially so during the afternoon. Perhaps the tragedies that befell the Alliance—namely the recent deaths of Blitz Keir and Psyx Dredge, two of nine highly esteemed soldiers known as Tears—drove everyone to satisfy their hunger for resolution as though it were physical. Perhaps satisfying this hunger would be more effective with something more edible instead of the bland-smelling offworld dishes being prepared by the chefs, but they had little control over that. Because of this, it was also very loud, for many people were complaining about the unsatisfactory nature of their meals. Nevertheless, on this particularly crowded day in the mess hall, two individuals happened to bump shoulders. Despite their unusual garb, they most likely wouldn’t have given one another a second glance if they had not met previously and on very uncertain terms.

“Why are you here?” demanded Valerie Astrid, a blonde-haired woman with peculiarly long, furred ears and a bad temper. She was referring, of course, to a certain black-haired, male samurai who was turning in mid-stride with an apology on his tongue until he realized the person with whom he was unfortunate enough to cross paths.

“Valerie,” muttered Tokumaru dolefully, and drooped his chin. “I understand you are upset, and I do not expect your forgiveness so swiftly. But I beg pardon and hope that you will not treat me discourteously—”

“I said ‘Why are you here?’ dirtbag.” Proverbial venom dripped from the valkyrie’s lips as she cursed him. She knew why the Heavenflame arrived, but was unaware that he remained. Given his public appearance where she’d seen him only a few weeks ago, the violent woman was more than a little displeased to see him again.

“Oh, I see.” The samurai practically quivered in his boots. Though he outclassed the valkyrie in power by a margin, her demeanor was enough to make anyone uncomfortable. “I refused to leave, so they recruited me again.”

The woman’s eyes went wide, but her eyebrows thinned and turned downward along with one corner of her lips. She looked as if someone had just told her a disgustingly lewd joke devoid of humor. When the shock passed, she gave the new recruit a cold glare. “Get out.”

After blinking several times, Tokumaru dropped his gaze. Out of the corner of his eye, he noted watchful eyes from nearby soldiers who had grown quiet.

The truth was that he never wanted to kill Blitz Keir. It was necessary in order to fulfill his purpose, but now, seeing the fruit of his godly master’s designs, the samurai began to question whether it was worth the heartache. He was a god himself now, having his own throne on Mount Olympus. The very fabric of reality was a plaything to him, but in gaining these powers, he had lost one of his only friends in the universe. The entire Alliance to which he was once loyally employed now despised him. Amy appeared to forgive the Heavenflame, at least to an extent, and Terra sought companionship from Kyo’s own son, Alex. Blitz, who secretly lived on as a spirit seeking a way back into the land of the living, swore to forgive the samurai’s sins upon a successful revival, or when his beloved’s suffering came to an end; whichever happened first.

Nevertheless, Tokumaru was deeply troubled by the treatment he received from everyone here. It was not so much that he felt deserving of better, but rather that he loved these people. The Alliance was an organization devoted to stamping out hidden wickedness of the world, and yet they displayed nothing but disgust for the Heavenflame, who shared their dream of a more peaceful Earth.

Valerie, likely the most violent soldier of them all, and definitely the most unforgiving, reached for one of two serrated daggers fastened to her belt. “I said get out,” she hissed, bearing teeth sharper than any human’s.

Hesitantly, Tokumaru fixed firm eyes on the valkyrie’s acid expression. It proved fatal, for the woman was upon him faster than he could blink.

“Valerie, enough!”

The valkyrie’s electrically charged weapon stopped less than an inch from a wide-eyed Tokumaru’s throat. Her eye twitched, a gesture of begrudged acknowledgement to her confidante’s order. “This bastard left us exposed.”

“He also prevented the main force’s extermination.” Zeroun’s tone was cool as ever. His enchanted blue robes whisked noiselessly across the floor with each step he took from the cafeteria doorway, countering Valerie’s virulent aura with a much calmer one. That friction only aggravated her, knew the wind mage, so he appealed to her self-interest. “What you are doing is betrayal. It is beyond my power to stay the authorities’ hands should you act brashly again.”

Valerie trembled with frustration, razor teeth inherent to her people flashing dangerously. Listlessly, Tokumaru held her gaze, unafraid yet visibly hurt. She struck a blow, not to his throat, but to his heart. That was enough for her. Snarling, Val withdrew the electric dagger, drawing not so much as a drop of blood.

Zeroun motioned for Valerie to leave the cafeteria—which she did, albeit with a string of curses—then cast an scolding glare at the surrounding soldiers who swiftly dispersed. Once the cafeteria’s noises resumed, Zeroun eyed the Heavenflame. “I apologize for her rash behavior.”

Tokumaru fixed his eyes on the one Tear who was willing to forgive him. “No.” The sincerity in his voice was genuine as he insisted, “This whole mess came about because of me. I am the one who should be apologizing.”

“Perhaps.” The wind mage stared unblinkingly into Tokumaru’s eyes. “Yet, it is senseless not to forgive one sincere for his sins, especially such a valuable asset as yourself. There is little you would not do in order to redeem yourself.” After a brief pause, Zeroun frowned. “I hope you do not think me cold. Your wellbeing equally concerns me.”

It must have been a struggle for the samurai to keep his composure with so many cold shoulders against him. Zeroun himself did not remember weeping, even in his childhood. The wisdom imparted by his scepter, which even now served as a cane to his feet, made tears a redundant expression of sorrow. That wisdom came not without empathy, however.

“I,” started Tokumaru, struggling for words, “I am…grateful to be of service.”

Despite fierce persecution, he perseveres in regaining the Alliance’s trust. Smiling at the thought, the wind mage gestured toward the waiting line for food. “Service is for when we are on the field. Now, enjoy your free hours while you can. Join me, Lord Kyô; let us eat.”

Tokumaru blinked in surprise. “You would grant me such an honor?”

Bearing his comrade a graceful curtsy, Zeroun replied, “Oh, but it is my honor to dine with the Heavenflame Samurai, servant of Hephaestus, ancient God of Fire and the Forge.”

Managing a small smile, the samurai accepted his mage companion’s offer, feeling that he was at last making some progress. Perhaps there was still hope to win back the trust of his former allies.

[Jayolorin]

Oh. My. Fracking. God.

*asplode*

This is,quite possibly, the best fic i have ever read Rivalling Bloodsword's or Awbri's for that matter. I usually found your writing quite nice, though, to tell the truth, slightly lacking in some departments. Otherwise it was quite enjoyable and you portrayed emotions clearly and fluently.

This is a whole new level; the detail is outstanding, and as if you are a ghost standing right next to the protagonists (no pun intended. ) I could almost feel the emotion coming from the characters.

This is clearly of publishing level.

[Dark WotS]

Culmination's Theme

Europe - In the Future to Come

Ow, ow, ow!

So many tears ago the people on this earth
they were laughing
They didn't think of anything else
than love and peace
But generations failed to see
that they were causin'
trouble for the future
They didn't know that one single war
would continue to increase

But I'll be beside you
'cause I want to hide you
I'll cover my pain
or I'll gone insane

Oh Lord, where will it end
when tomorrow is done
Oh Lord, can we stop to pretend
that we can survive
in the future to come
In the future to come

As long as you can see
as long as you can feel
there's no cause for alarm
As long as you can touch
as long as you can move
it ain't too bad
But one day or another
this world would maybe
be destroyed forever
A holocaust could maybe be spread
and drive us all mad

But I'll be beside you
'cause I want to hide you
I'll cover my pain
or I'll gone insane

Oh Lord, where will it end
when tomorrow is done
Oh Lord, can we stop to pretend
that we can survive
in the future to come
In the future to come

Oooh, oh, aaah!

So many years ago the people on this earth
they were laughing
They didn't think of anything else
than love and peace
But generations failed to see
that they were causin'
trouble for the future
They didn't know that one single war
would continue to increase

But I'll be beside you
'cause I want to hide you
I'll cover my pain
or I'll gone insane

Oh Lord, where will it end
when tomorrow is done
Oh Lord, can we stop to pretend
that we can survive
in the future to come

[Dark WotS]

Originally Posted by Jayolorin

Oh. My. Fracking. God.

*asplode*

This is,quite possibly, the best fic i have ever read Rivalling Bloodsword's or Awbri's for that matter. I usually found your writing quite nice, though, to tell the truth, slightly lacking in some departments. Otherwise it was quite enjoyable and you portrayed emotions clearly and fluently.

This is a whole new level; the detail is outstanding, and as if you are a ghost standing right next to the protagonists (no pun intended. ) I could almost feel the emotion coming from the characters.

This is clearly of publishing level.

I don't know about publishing level, but I did have inspiration from an outside source. This, of course, is only the prologue. I have great plans for this fic, but you'll have to wait a bit. CMoC2 and RIP must both be complete before I can unveil the rest. Believe me when I say it will be awesome.

[Jayolorin]

NOT of publishing level? I'm quite sure that all little errors aside, this has captivated me much more than other highly aclaimed book series out there...

Anyway, I'll be waiting, to say the least.

[Dark WotS]

Originally Posted by Jayolorin

NOT of publishing level? I'm quite sure that all little errors aside, this has captivated me much more than other highly aclaimed book series out there...

Anyway, I'll be waiting, to say the least.

Hmm... Well, I'm glad you enjoyed it.

Truthfully, I haven't written anything more than this yet, ehehe... But I should have the majority of the fic done by the time the aforementioned RPs have ended. Assuming I don't procrastinate horribly. I'll try to avoid that for once, though.

[Terrin]

Very nicely done, Matt. This is definitely your best work yet. Fiction wise, that is. I look forward to reading more, and, of course, to writing Calamity, which should be equally fun.

[Safer]

Have fun with it, WoTS. Au'tura hgiemesch pir yim acludis li.

<3

[Angel]

>>

Wielder, you see all those posts I made in my battles today? I posted them because of the inspiration I got from reading this. >>

You inspire me. Write more, I beg of you.

[Dark WotS]

Originally Posted by Safer

Have fun with it, WoTS. Au'tura hgiemesch pir yim acludis li.

<3

I'm going to ignore the suspicion that there was something derogatory in the part of that post I can't understand, and instead just say "Thanks" and "I will." By the way, watch The Lake House. Great movie. Almost made me cry.

Originally Posted by Angel

>>

Wielder, you see all those posts I made in my battles today? I posted them because of the inspiration I got from reading this. >>

You inspire me. Write more, I beg of you.

I'll try. Don't expect too much right away, though. << That would mean spoilers. Even if I get the important chapters written, I don't intend to post them until after CMoC2 and RIP have ended. This is the end of the DL chronology, after all... It has to be perfect.

Glad I could inspire you, by the way. At least I'm still of some use around here.

[Dark WotS]

Chapter 1
Blessing


It had been at least a week since Alya left. Thanks to her, the once listless spirit known to the living as Blitz Keir now had something to look forward to; a joyous reunion with his wife and child. Doubtless all of the Alliance would also welcome their revitalized comrade with open arms after the shock passed. Imagining the warm cheers and happy faces—especially that of his beloved—made the ex-soldier smile. After all, if a ghost could communicate with the living, then certainly there had to be some way to inhabit a permanent body. Dead ones didn’t seem to respond well enough, unfortunately, but there was still hope.

Tokumaru Kyô fused with the ethers upon his death and become an Olympian god, and though he could communicate with Blitz, the Heavenflame had no valuable information to offer. Whisking through the Alliance halls for less than a day after Alya’s departure in search of a willing host, Blitz eventually determined that the answer to his problems would not be found in Base 17. So now his disembodied, wispy, technicolor form raced across the fields, floating a few feet off the ground. Somewhere out there was a magical someone with the knowledge he needed, or even have the power to revitalize him. Perhaps that was too much to hope for.

Blitz’ spirits were high. Hope made any journey more exciting, and considering the purpose of his quest, success would make quite the tale to tell. I’ll miss being able to fly and walk through walls, though, thought the wispy spirit to himself with a grin. He hadn’t been so elated in a long time.

The enthusiastic grin soon faded. What lay before Blitz was a peculiar encampment; little more than a makeshift animal-skin tent supported on what looked like elephant tusks. That’s odd. The swordsman floated closer to inspect, passing over a classic bonfire which had recently been extinguished. As he approached, a warm yet uneasy feeling grew in his stomach. The tent’s wall allowed him passage, and Blitz found himself staring directly into the eyes of a beautiful woman. Startled, and still tied to his earthly customs, Blitz struggled not to yelp.

She stared right through him like any other person would. Blitz experienced a momentary disappointment, but quickly recomposed and looked the woman over. She was indeed beautiful in a cryptic sense—sleek black garments draped across her lithe figure, leaving a portion of one fair shoulder visible. Long, raven hair fell around a pale face bearing pert, darkly lips and large, forest-green eyes. Hardly the type Blitz was attracted to; but then, he didn’t consider death to nullify his marriage.

“Who are you?” said the woman, running a comb through her raven-black hair.

Blitz nearly flipped in disbelief. Had she spoken to him? He gazed into those forest-green eyes and answered in something bordering fear. Can you see me?

“Of course,” she replied, absently running the comb through her thick locks. “Do you think me blind?”

N-no, I… Words failed the deceased innate. This woman was the first person he’d met who could physically perceive him with any of five senses, aside from his former teacher, the Ominae. Blitz did not want to offend her and lose this unbelievable opportunity. It’s just that I’m, well…dead.

“That is so,” she spoke, her voice rich like lavender, “if you consider freedom from your body to be death.”

Blitz mulled over this for a moment, then decided with a frown that it was spiritualistic hippie mumbo-jumbo. Would he get anything helpful out of her? If she was a spiritualist, maybe she had some kind of spell. Still, it would be nice if I could talk to my wife once in awhile. You wouldn’t happen to know anything about how I can…

“Return to life?” she finished for him, putting down the comb and brushing the spirit aside, to his wide-eyed realization. Cursing himself, Blitz started to apologize for floating in front of her mirror, but the woman continued. “I am Eka Gudrun, a servant of the True God. There is much I know that you do not.”

A servant of the ‘True God’? Great… She’s not just a spiritualist, she’s a Christian. The thought was hidden, something Blitz had learned to do along his way, and there was no chance a mortal like Eka could hear. Care to share? he asked with a lopsided smile.

“Perhaps if you swear to make good of the knowledge I impart.” Eka turned to face him now.

It felt odd; the way those eyes focused with undeterred purpose on Blitz’ wispy form. Trying not to shift uncomfortably, he returned Eka’s green-eyed gaze. I have plans for it.

“Then you must come with me.”

Where? Secretly, he added, a shrine, or something? Better not be a sermon.

“Have faith that all shall become as it should.”

I have a history of making my own destiny, lady.

“You are dead.”

…Touché.

In the end, there was nothing to lose. There, hovering in the skin tent with this stranger, Blitz decided he would follow Eka wherever she led. The green-eyed mystic knew something, and if she was willing to impart that knowledge, sticking around would be more than worth the time.

***

“Sire,” called a silken voice drenched in professional venom which reverberated off the cavern walls. “My Lord insists.” The voice belonged to a woman with hair black-as-night framing a pale, stony face as beauteous marble, but cold enough to smother fire. A skintight, ebony dress fell to the mid of her shins and slit to the thigh.

“Your Lordship’s wishes conflict with my intentions for this world,” came another, far more powerful voice. Though muffled in the earthy cavern’s depths, it was clear by the rumbling that its owner must have been immeasurable.

“You are aware He will plaster you across a thousand planes, and yet you continue to defy His purpose?”

“I have not spoken at length with a living thing for times beyond measure, and would have it remain this way, yet you disrupt my silent peace.” The tone was dry as a desert, fully intentional.

The woman’s eye visibly twitched. “You mock me?”

“I speak my wishes, much as you speak for your Master,” replied the second being with diplomatic reserve. “In ages past, we were of one mind. Now He works in secret against me. My subject is selected, and he shall do my will.” There was a slight pause before huge shapes shifted in the darkness. Two glowing, white orbs appeared; though brilliant, they reflected no light from the cavern’s mouth. “Now begone.”

The black-garbed woman’s eyes flared to match those of her compatriot while slender fingers clenched in fury. Dim light flung throughout the cavern, illuminating its walls though hundreds of yards apart. Stony growths emerged from the ceiling, centuries old, for this cavern was more ancient than any on Earth. “You care not for the fate of this world’s security? If I carry out my Master’s will—”

“Dark Horizon shall fall, Milady,” interrupted the orbs with a momentary blaze that extended not beyond their own countenance. “But it shall do so without my intervention. Such is my will.” The orbs narrowed, focusing on her with newfound tranquility. “Take peace. I will not see my abode damaged.”

Bowing her head, less of respect than acknowledgement, the raven girl’s fists relaxed. “My apologies, Lord. It is unbecoming of a Lady.” The last word carried unrestrained disgust which she knew her associate would understand. She expected a reply to the effect that his deigning with humans was not implication of weakness. Instead she received utter silence; not even a disgruntled breath. “Very well, then. I shall take him from you.”

The cavern thundered violently. Stalactites shook loose and crashed to the ground, their sound inaudible under such great din. The sound shattered forth from the gaping maw of a creature who watched the planet’s birth; borne witness to the rise and fall of countless empires in their arrogance; and would see Earth’s final breath. This primordial roar was not a threat, but a warning.

Its recipient was gone, however; vanished without so much as a wisp of smoke. Wherever she went, it would be heard. That roar was a mark of the Great One’s authority and could never be ignored.

***

Far away, two draconic, black ears perked up. Master…? Urgency exploded to life in every vein; a message. For those in the know, its origin was unmistakable; anyone in the dark who could hear would be crippled for life. It was a cryptic message of importance that could not be conveyed in words. Without being told, he understood.

Turning to his companion, the black-skinned man took her elven hand and whispered apologetically, “I must go.”

She stared back, unblinking. “Yes. I know.”

He hesitated. “I’ll come back.”

The elven woman smiled, squeezing his hand. “Yes. I know.”

Briefly, he returned that smile, then took a few paces back. Two wings unfurled, and a dragon darker than a starless night sky shot across the heavens.

Grassy expanses fell away and turned into green blurs as Drake Keir’s heavy wings beat the air. The message’s meaning was vague, but Drake knew this was the very reason he was taken under the Great One’s employ. Nothing was more important to his life’s purpose than right now.

You were taken under my wing and given a curse as well as a gift. Suffering unknown to any but you and your Lord has passed between us, forming an unbreakable union of mortal and god. Long you asked “For what purpose?” and I bade you wait. Behold! Your culmination comes.

[Dark WotS]

Chapter 2
Malediction


What…? The ex-innate trailed off, his thoughts jumbled. For the first time in a month, Blitz stood before the vehicle entrance of Base 17. Like a gaping maw, it rose over twenty feet in the side of the vast building, but most of the base was completely underground and spread out over the distance of a small city. Pockets marred every other inch of the exterior walls—battle scars as proof of the base’s harrows and victories. Two-million people lived and worked in this base, and all of them believed a certain fire innate was dead. Why are we here?

“You want to know the secret of immortality, do you not?” The Christian woman was looking over the Alliance’s 17th military and research establishment with analytical eyes. How she knew its location was a mystery, but her arrival here could be no coincidence.

It seemed all Eka’s words were emotionless. Blitz watched her in curiosity and sadness. Did something steal away her soul? She certainly wasn’t like other Christians. Then again, as the spirit watched his green-eyed guide, she reminded him of a certain half-dragon in the service of a draconic deity. Blitz shook his head. If this was what it meant to be any god’s servant, he was grateful that his will was his own.

If something like that were here, I’d know about it.

“Would you, Keir?” Her eyes caught him, and Blitz experienced the dread of an animal trapped by its predator.

He didn’t hear what Eka said next. W-what did you say? Now he was certain Eka could read minds. How do you know my name?!

She regarded the deceased coolly for a moment before replying: “I told you once, Keir. I know a great many things that you do not.”

I don’t see how that applies! He wrestled with his frustration for a long moment. Who the Hell was this woman? She wasn’t ordinary. Maybe the Alliance had records of her. Blitz had certainly never heard of any Eka Gudrun. Nevertheless, he would gain nor learn nothing by floating around. Throwing his arms up in exasperation, the innate ceded. Never mind. Let’s just go.

Eka fixed the wispy spirit with a look that sent chills down his spine. He resisted the urge to fidget. When she did not look away, Blitz narrowed his eyes, hoping the scowl would ward off those soul-piercing eyes. What? he hissed.

Without a word, Eka seemed to forget whatever she was thinking, and proceeded into the base. The fire innate grudgingly followed. As they advanced down a familiar, dull corridor, it occurred to Blitz that no security was present. That was odd. The entrance was always heavily guarded. That the vehicle entrance was open at all was unusual. Now that he considered it, the base seemed almost asleep at midday when it should be bustling with frantic activity. No sound reflected off those steel walls; only Eka’s forbidding image. Surely Eka would have been met by security, or a special ops group, or something. But as they delved deeper into Base 17, the spirit realized no one was going to greet them.

“Come.”

Before Blitz could reply, he experienced a disturbing sensation. His body—which did not exist—disintegrated, buzzed around in infinite directions for an infinite amount of time, and then he was staring at a door a split-instant later. Wha…?

That was not teleportation. It was something wholly different, but the fire innate could not stop comprehend what had just happened. Something felt very wrong. The pit of his stomach was beginning to stir; gut-feelings like that were never wrong.

“Enter.”

The spirit spun to see Eka standing behind him. Eka’s features displayed unrestrained impatience with Blitz’ failure to understand various facets of reality. They were in another hallway, this one carpeted. Only one area of the base had carpeted hallways: the bunks, or sleeping quarters. Blitz turned around again. The door’s surface bore a bronze-painted plaque emblazoned with seven numbers: 282-9631. He whipped around again, gaping in disbelief. Why did you bring me here?

Eka did not reply, but fixed him with a gaze that was neither a scowl, nor anything openly violent; no, the feeling was not in response to what the eyes perceived. The look didn’t command obedience, but threatened for it. “She is waiting.”

Blitz furrowed his brow, defensive but unafraid. I’ll go. He paused for effect. But not because you tell me to.

***

282-9631.

A tired, young woman let her feet carry her through the doorway, and the hatch automatically hissed shut behind her. She ambled forward, eyes unfocused as though blind. The woman came to a stop before the mahogany dresser and stood awhile. Minutes passed as she stared at no one, thought of nothing. Then she blinked, lowered her head, and sighed deeply.

It had been a long day. As a Celestial, Amy could do the work of a hundred clerics. The Alliance didn’t waste any time taking full advantage of this. Despite wielding infinite power, Amy felt fatigue. A certain weariness of the soul was overcoming the usual energy with which she accomplished her daily chores. Blitz always made her smile before he died, and Amy’s patients always smiled back. Where was her husband now? Alya’s translation of the invisible spirit’s unheard words kept Amy going, but how much longer could she wait? Everyday chores grew more tedious. Even sympathy for her patients had vanished.

“If only I could heal more than just the body,” she breathed, slipping her white coat off her shoulders and hoisting it onto a rack next to the armoire. “Only you can save me, darling. Please come back soon.”

Viscen took Terra outside Base 17 to play, she knew. They would have been back by now. Amy was grateful that her daughter had such an enthusiastic uncle to make up for the girl’s mother. Still, the distinct absence of guilt tormented the cleric. All she could think of was her husband.

The Celestial healer turned, started for her bed, and stopped.

Hi…

Stunned silence overtook her. The longing to see him, feel his arms again, drained Amy’s limbs. It was all she could do to keep standing. Loneliness taxed her sanity daily. Was it a hallucination? Had she gone insane? No, it couldn’t be. That smile…

I missed you.

Finding her voice, Amy managed to whisper his name.

Yeah. It’s me.

“I… I…” Her voice hurried away again, leaving her body frozen. Heaviness dragged her eyelids down.

Blitz rushed forward and flung his arms around her, fearful that his love might fall. Feeling her warmth, Blitz couldn’t help but smile. It’s okay. I’m here now.

Amy looked up at him and raised a weak, shaking hand to his cheek, brushing it as if to prove he was really there. “Oh…my darling.” Anything else she might have said was smothered in a long-awaited kiss that instantly floated her to that familiar cloud. Her arms found their way blindly around his waist.

I’m so sorry, Blitz found himself still able to say without his mouth, that I’m taking so long. I’ll be back soon, darling. You have my word. Somehow, it didn’t come as a surprise that Amy could see him. It felt so natural that he never thought to question it.

When their lips finally parted, Amy gulped for air, unable to take her eyes from his. “I love you.”

I love you, too. Blitz smiled genuinely for the first time since his death three months ago. Tell me, darling. Has your love for me wavered?

Amy’s eyes fluttered, tears brimming behind them at the flurry of emotions in which she swam. “What? Of course not, I…” She faltered, but his arms held her securely upright. “I would never… How could you ask such a thing?”

It’s been a long time, said the innate, his smile dissipating somewhat. You’ve been lonely. I thought perhaps you would drown your sorrows in someone else’s arms.

The tears came full force. Her body trembled with a kind of fear she’d never known. “What? Blitz, I…”

It’s not like I didn’t expect you to. Blitz’ smile returned, but this time it was different; almost sarcastic. You mean to say that, in all the time we’ve been together, you’ve never cheated?

Amy heard her heart crack.

I find that hard to believe.

Her cheeks were soaked, voice gone once more. She tried to speak, but managed only a faint whimper.

Blitz cocked his head slightly. What’s wrong?

“What…” choked Amy through a burst of sobbing, unable to tear her eyes from him, “are you saying?”

Don’t worry, I’ll believe you. He paused and flashed that disturbing smile again. That is, if you do something to prove it.

Sobs tore from Amy’s chest any words she tried to form. She could barely take in a breath for the throes that shook her small, pale face. What was he saying? Why would he ever consider something like that? Amy never loved a soul but her husband, never once entertained the idea of another. No one could measure up to her husband in any way. He protected Amy with his life and loved her fiercely. Why, of all times, would he think this way now after all they’d been through together? Had she done something wrong? Amy wanted Blitz to love her above all else and never question her love for him. Despite the uncontrollable sobbing, she squeezed out a shuddering nod.

Good. The smile vanished, leaving the most loveless expression he’d ever worn. I want you to kill yourself.

The sobs caught in her throat, making Amy choke till she could breathe again, but she still could not look away.

If I can return to life, I can bring you back. It won’t make a difference. Every word cut deeper. Kill yourself, and I will believe that you love me. Then I’ll revive you as soon as possible. His arms around her seemed devoid of warmth now.

Feeling almost as if her body were being controlled, Amy pulled away, standing shakily on her own two feet. She stared wide-eyed at her husband, fear gripping her body. Dread combined with the heartbroken tears, Amy was certain to fall. But she stood. “I…” Three words were all that remained in her head. “I l-love you…my husband,” she choked. “I love you…so much.”

Prove it.

Her heart tore open and everything spilled out. Amy no longer had strength left to cry. She could see no reason not to follow his command, for she already felt dead. A single hand raised, forming a single serrated blade of glimmering ice. Suddenly, fear gripped her. “D-don’t… Don’t make me, please,” stammered Amy. He always saved her. He would save her again, stop her, or something. He had to. “Please, Blitz, I…” Staring into his eyes, Amy knew her husband wouldn’t believe her. “I love you…”

Those cold, unloving eyes stared back. Then do it. What are you waiting for? He crossed his arms.

“Then,” whispered Amy, tears still flooding down her cheeks. “I…have no reason to live.”

Red spilled down her throat, instantly soaking her blouse.

No! Amy! Morbid, unbelieving dread cut through the innate as he saw his darling’s crimson flow. Oh, God… His arms held her tightly as she slumped against the armoire, the sparkle in her pale blue eyes fading. No, my love… Don’t leave me… Not again… Not a single tear escaped Blitz’ intangible eyes. No matter how he tried, the spirit could not cry, but his body shook with cold. His entire world died in his arms, and he could do nothing to save her. Forgive me… God, please forgive me… I…I’ve failed you again…

“Do you not know that all things have their due course?” came a hated voice. “All must eventually depart the living world and fade into nothing. The secret of immortality,” Eka Gudrun stated profoundly, “does not exist.”

You…

“You were doomed to fail protecting her. Why do you struggle so vainly to save a life that must eventually pass away regardless?”

You did this…

“Can you undo it?”

You *****! screamed the innate with all the fire in him.

He never got close enough to strike her. Eka’s hand was too fast even for him to track, and in that instant, Blitz’ eyes went wide. He didn’t need to breathe, but somehow she was choking him. Trickling away went his life as sight grew indistinct.

Go ahead… I’ve got nothing left to live for…

Pain sprouted in the back of his head. Blitz opened one eye to find himself lying on the floor. Eka was gone.

Viscen stood in the doorway clutching Terra in his arms.

[Sakume]

Okay. I'll leave you a review.

-Character Development-
Pretty good so far, although I haven't read a lot of your past stuff you've written, I believe I've seen enough to develop a good grip on most of the characters. Some of them are not mentioned quite enough to give a person enough insight on them, but since this fic is obviously just beginning, there's no reason to patronize any one character for lack of depth. You have an incredible gift for displaying emotion more than any other plus in your story. As I've written before, parts of this made me cry. It takes a lot for a person to do that with stories. The detail of the encounters and interaction makes them believable, beyond any doubt.

There is also a delicate balance between making the people and places believable and yet keeping the fantasy world intact. You seem to have that balance very well-placed. I find one thing a bit puzzling. Blitz assumes that Eka is a Christian when she mentions this "True God." You would think that he would not accept that as a fault, since diverse religions would refer to each of their own gods as true. It could be that I'm overlooking something, or that it's simply an instant response on his part. It's also strange that she is referred to as Christian and yet, obviously does not act like one. I'm sure this is a part of your plot, but it just seems awkward to me.

-Plot-
This I can't really say much about, as I'm not sure where you're going with it. I feel like I've read this before for some reason, but that can't be as you're posting for the first time, I believe. I can say that I don't know why Blitz would ask such a thing from his wife. I've never heard of that sort of proof before. His attitude changes from "loving" or at least seemingly, to cold in moments, and he regrets it the instant after it takes place, even though he had every chance to stop it. That I don't understand.

The relationship portrayed between Viscen and his "niece" is very cute and well-portrayed, and I'm curious as to how long you've used these characters as your own, if they are all your own. I recall you making references in the beginning of this thread to Safer and Bloodsword. And I'm also curious as to when this takes place, since I remember reading another thread that involved Blitz being a spirit, but can't find it for the life of me.

-Grammatical Expertise-

From what I can see and I'm about the same level as you, or so you've claimed, you have a good grip on vocabulary and using it correctly. I never doubted you in this area. There may be one or two places where a comma or semicolon should be inserted instead of something else, but I'm certainly not going to point anything like that out, especially with no excess. There is also an instance or two where you use "?!" as an exclamation, which is technically not correct, but since you use it for emphasis, I won't bug you about that, either. All in all, it is a great variant of the English language, and good sentence forming.

All in all, a very enjoyable read, and I look forward to more, and forgive any mistakes I’ve made in this review, since I’m sick and I can’t think very well.