The Last Lands

CHAPTER 20 BRAZEN WAS THE WALK

The heat was beyond intense.

For the last two months or so that Artifae had been away, it had rained for a month and a half. The heat was still there, but it was cloying and damp. For the past week however, his skin had not known the refreshing touch of precipitation. For all the curses he had given out when his boots were sodden, it had always been there to wash the sweat out of his hair, its calming sound helping lull him into tired slumbers. Here, under the deepening clouds of smoke and roasting rocks, he would give anything to see it again. His mouth and throat became cavernous and desperate for liquid.

The rocks beneath them burned, rumbling and shaking so violently, Artifae thought if he wasn't bound by the strange wax, he could have been thrown from the sides of the Aerth. The heat did not do anything to weaken the wax, as he struggled his arms against it, it felt like a clammy hand squeezing at him. As the world vibrated, he looked at the Senator. Her hands were flexing against an invisible force, squeezing something hidden in the air. Her smile grew wider, and her eyes wilder. Some strands of hair began to stick to her forehead. The clocks that became her eyes were stationary, but focused.

She's going to bring down the mountain on all of us, her included!

Suddenly the ground stopped shaking. A heavy tremor rattled through the earth below them, and the mountain spat out a great plume of thick smoke with a tremendous roar. The prisoners looked up as the earth belched fire, a great, thick cloud of dark grey death hovered above the mouth of the mountain. Great pyroclastic projectiles soared through the air, landing dangerously close or into the jungle.

“Silema!” The Captain shouted. “Release us! Please!”

She have no hint she heard him over the clamour, instead watching with perverse glee at the battle unfolding below them. The two sides clashed, rusty cutlass against golden shield, and the wax around them grew tighter. Artifae clenched his teeth as the substance pushed against his bandaged wound. He clamped his eyes down as the noxious scents grew deeper. The ground opened fresh wounds, expelling toxic gusts that threatened to melt the air itself. He heard a new trembling sound from behind them, as the great cloud of ash began to make its way towards them, overtaking the flow of lava.

She's going to kill us all!

There was a flash of metal, dancing on the remnants of sunlight before it was stolen by the volcano. Silema called out as a spear sank into the volcanic glass behind her. Air rushed into Artie's mouth, happily reacquainting itself with his lungs as the spell around them relaxed. He fought against the wax, feeling it break under force. Silema held a cheek with her dainty hand, a dark grey liquid slowly seeped itself out in want of blood. She looked in shock, to see figures in black bounding from her left.

We've seen those guys before...

The members of the Thieves Guild bounded elegantly towards her. More projectiles were thrown. The leader had her blade ready, her eyes trained on Silema. Silema turned, withdrawing most of the wax that bound her prisoners, rushing it towards her new assailants, forming a small jagged wall. The leader bounded over it, effortlessly, releasing another small throwing knife. Silema projected a wall of wax before her face, halting the oncoming blade. The wall behind her melted, turning briefly into a hand and grabbing her from behind. The guild-member was dragged away, thrown behind her comrades.

“Kill her!” She shouted, struggling free of the wax.

Artifae was released, looking first to the Captain, who readied his blade, and then to Taisha, who cradled her stave. The Thieves Guild members leapt towards her, more throwing knives launched and blades readied. Silema effortlessly evaded the projectiles, using her wax to halt the stop of blades and clasp at their feet. One member got too close, aiming for her neck with his blade, but her hand was quicker. She grabbed his masked face, feeding wax through the gaps in his visor. He shook and convulsed, the blade falling to his feet, before turning very still and landing on the ground, body still twitching, face obscured by the technicolour substance. Another member shouted in rage, swinging their sword towards her, and was once more repelled. The Captain yelled as he brought his sickle-sword to the back of her neck, but without looking, she kicked towards him. A wave of wax launched him backwards, pinning him to the ground. Ban released their wolf tattoo, running with their short-sword. Sylo jumped to his feet, tearing the wax off of his weapons.

Silema whipped round, a whirlpool of wax surrounding her and pulsating like a shock-wave. It knocked the last two standing thieves guild members back, and with an uppercut motion, was sent barrelling into Ban's chin. They jumped into the air, and landed on their back with a grown. Sylo unloaded a volley of bullets, but they sank into a wall of wax. When the chambers were empty and the guns clicked, she curved the wall into a stodgy sphere, and launched it like a cannon-ball. It struck him in the chest, moulding and pinning his arms to his chest. Finally she set her sights upon Artifae and Taisha.

We need a weapon,not just a stick!

Artifae crawled towards Taisha, cradling her, pushing her behind him, but she resisted. She moved forwards, her stave pointed at the Senator. Artifae watched as the indigo feather swayed. The wall of ash was still crawling towards them.

“Stay back1” Taisha yelled, the last of her conviction holding.

Silema's smile was withdrawn now. She was no longer gazing upon those who could be manipulated. She was looking down at insects. She lifted her fingers up, a trail of wax slowly following them. Artifae grabbed Taisha's arm, squeezing it. She did not relent, his new protector.

Isn't this supposed to be the other way around? Captain Zip would never-

There was a sudden gleaming of gold, and Silema yelled in pain as a golden spear sank into the jagged ground behind her.

“You!” Sofia Called out, walking through the battle with purpose.

Silema snarled, holding her wrist as more grey goo weeped from it. Sofia brought her shield forth, and withdrew her short-sword from within. She roared as she bounded towards the Senator, who frantically arced her arms, withdrawing all of the nearby wax. Sofia leapt, golden blade shining fearsomely. It sank into a wave of wax, which moved to surround her, but she was too quick. She cut the wax through, getting closer and closer, until the Senator's face was within distance. The blade came towards her, stopping inches away from her neck. The wax had caught her hand, but Sofia did not struggle against it.

“Many millennia ago, you caused my people great strife, creature. Today, I will right the wrongs of thousands of years ago, and I will have you see justice.”

Silema gritted her teeth.

“You think you can kill me, Demeterosi? Do you know how many of your people already tried?”

This time it was Sofia's time to smile.

“I will not kill you, creature. Not today, least wise.”

She yelled as she pulled her blade back, the wax shattering. Shock filled Silema's face, if only for a second. Sofia barged the remnants of the wall with her shield, sending fragments of wax through the air, as still the mountain of Brak-Hara launched its burning missiles. Under the cloud of ash, its molten blood crept towards them. More vents burst from the Aerth. Artifae heard people screaming in undue agony, as within the mob of battlers, fiery air burst onto them.

We've got to get out of here, and now!

Sofia roared as the shield continued surging towards her opponent. It collided with Sofia's chest, forcing her backwards with a grunt. She hit the stony ground, her chest heaving. She tried to move one of her hands, but her wrist was trapped by one of Sofia's greaves. The point of the sword was lowered towards her throat.

“This ends, now.” Sofia hissed through her teeth. “Use your magics, reverse the eruption.”

She pressed more pressure onto Silema, who called out in pain. Through a forced laugh, she looked at Sofia with her terrible eyes.

“The process has already started. I only accelerated it. There's no going back now.”

The ground rumbled below them as the wave of ash drew itself closer. The sky had become black, with only the light of pyroclastic lanterns soaring through the air. The jungle had begun to burn, flocks of brightly coloured birds flew to escape, and the canopy heaved as great beasts sprinted to safety. Sofia looked back down at Silema as falling ash marred her golden skin.

“You will face justice, for this crime and more.”

“No!” A woman shouted.

The leader of the Thieves Guild stood, her blade ready.

“We have to kill her now!”

The blade came down, aiming between her chin and collar-bone, but Sofia moved to intercept, foot still clamped on Silema's wrist. The sword clanged as it hit Sofia's shield. Sofia pushed the shrouded attacked backwards.

“No! I need her alive! She must-”

Another Thieves Guild crept up behind her, blade soaring towards Silema. Sofia whirled to meet it with her sword, releasing Silema inadvertently. Artifae moved to get up to help, but Taisha pulled him back down.

“Artie, we have to go!”

“She needs help!” He shouted, but his leg screamed at him.

Sofia was propelled back by a blast of wax, as the thieves guild tried to get closer. Sofia battled the new assailants, and was blind-sided by Silema's attacks. Wax curled around her ankle, sinking her down. The leader of the Thieves curved their arm back, the blade aimed to her neck. Artifae;s hands curled around a broken shard of obsidian, and without aiming, tossed it towards them. The rock narrowly missed Sofia's face, colliding with the sword arm. The woman called out under the cowl, as Sofia broke free of her wax shackles.

“Sofia!” Artifae called out. “We have to go!”

The ground shook wildly again. The wave of toxic gas was almost upon them. Sofia looked up, despair briefly tainting her face. Around Artie, The Captain and Ban appeared by his side.

“Captain, we have to get everyone off of the mountain!” Ban shouted, barely audible over the volcano's roar.

“We need to help her!” Artifae yelled.

“Ban, see to the men, get them off of the mountain! I will help!”

Before he could move, there was a mighty yell, and from their peripherals, people were thrown into the air as a massive Ogrin appeared.

“I'm here, tiny woman!” He yelled, struggling past the fighting group.

With enormous effort, he ran up the stony incline, until there was a great crack in the air. A whip struck Dhurz in the back, and he winced. He turned around to see the Southern-Man holding a bull-whip with a devious look on his face, He twirled the whip back behind his head, and lunged again. Dhurz was ready this time, letting the whip slap against his wrist and gripping it with a large hand. Taking it with the other, he yelled as he pulled, swinging the human through the air. The man released the whip, flying into a mound of rocks. His chest and face were lacerated, but before he could get to his feet, a great explosion sounded as Sylo fired a perfectly aimed shot at the man's chest. Dhurz grunted.

“He was mine, tiny Eve!”

Sylo growled, his metal hands growing dull under the absence of the light. Behind Dhurz, the battle had slowly begun climbing the mountain, leaving trails of dead and wounded behind. The Frost-Kin, Sarvi, grinned maliciously as he stepped towards the fallen bull-whip with a blood covered hand. He held it, first looking at Dhurz, then Sylo, then Artifae.

Under a volcano, why does my blood suddenly feel so cold?

“Silema!” He called out, waving towards the jungle.

She looked at him with a neutral expression, flashing her hands to each side. A wave of wax shot out, knocking over the battling Sofia and Thieves Guild members. She surged towards Sarvi, landing delicately next to him.

“Captain!” Ban shouted. “We can't let her get away!”

The Captain looked at Artie, who could barely stand, then to Sylo.

“Mister Teht.” He said with all authority at his disposal. “Bring her alive, and our debt will be settled.”

Sylo looked at him angrily, then to her. The Frost-Kin began escorting her away from the battle. He looked at Dhib Albahr, his anger slowly fading and nodded. He ran forwards, weapons in tow. The Captain looked back at Artifae.

“Mister Sajaestan, can you stand?” He asked, not waiting for an answer. “Take Miss Paj and get back to the coast, await for us at the ship.”

Artie looked at Sylo, his leather coat floating as he ran.

“He needs help, Captain!”

“You are in no position to. Take as many people back to the camp as you can, wait for us there!”

“Captain,” Taisha said. “Let us help. We won't get in his way.”

He looked disappointingly at the two, but relented.

“Fine. Meet us at the ship. How long we can wait there with the eruption occurring, I do not know.”

“We'll be there.” Artie said, forcing his trademark smile.

Taisha helped him to his feet.

“Come on, we're going to lose them!” Artie shouted.

Every step was a shot of agony. He limped across the jagged slope. Fire reigned down, molten glass became meteors, increasing as the dust storm surged further down the mountain. The smell of sulphur and toxic air choked the combatants. Many fled. He heard shouting behind him.

“Wait, tiny woman! You cannot best her without Dhurz!” The Ogrin shouted.

“Get to safety, Dhurz!” She yelled back, sprinting towards Silema. “Help as many people back to the ship as you can!”

She ran, overtaking Artie and Taisha. They looked back, under the black tide, the flash of the silver-sickle blade collided with the remaining bandits. He heard them shouting, but nothing could be heard under the quaking of the earth. Sofia caught up with Sylo, who released a shot at Silema and missed. Artifae ran as fast as he could, but the knives within blurred his vision and reduced the sound to white noise. Taisha overtook him, and as she turned, her eyes widened with fear. The ash cloud was almost upon them. Thousands of tiny stones were flung towards them like shrapnel, although Artifae saw that was not what she was worried about. Through the cacophony, he heard a great sound of exertion, as the Satyr pirate with the great hammer lunged at him. He ducked down, collapsing onto the floor, as the Satyr swung above his head, stumbling with hooves on the rocks, and tripping over Artifae's body.

“Keep running!” He shouted at Taisha.

He scrambled to his feet, every cell in his body calling out with pain. The Satyr pushed himself up, great hammer still in his hairy hands, swinging it back towards him. Artifae fell backwards, rolling down the sharp hill. Taisha stepped forwards, yelling as she brought the stick down on the Satyr's head, splintering the very top of it. He fell backwards, calling out as the jagged knives cut into his back. She grabbed him by the arm, pulling him upwards. The ground roared beneath their feet. The Satyr was dazed, rolling onto his front, freezing when he saw the wall of toxic gasses and stone. Taisha pulled him into a sprint, the roar almost eclipsing the scream of the Satyr behind them.

Just have to get to the tree-line!

Pain and Artfae were no longer one in the same. He had ascended it, as his feet slid and hammered across the slopes. The ground trembled beneath him. The sky had grown has dark as the ground below them, even the trees before them quaked. They ran through the trees, the scraping sounds of rock and glass colliding with the vegetation hammering behind them. A great bolt of wind struck them, taking them off of their feet. Artifae grabbed Taisha, who still cradled her staff. The two crawled to the closest tree as the shock-wave of ash struck the forest. The trees cried out in pain, many were torn by their roots. Artifae covered his and her heads, waiting for the onslaught to steady itself. Jagged pieces of volcanic glass and rock shot past them like bullets. They were assailed by stones and fragments, and the world had become a single roar by them.

After what could have been minutes, the shock-wave passed, leaving a trail of smog and ash. The two coughed heavily, using their clothes to cover their mouths and noses, but the toxic air stung at their eyes.

“I can't see anything.” Artifae said in the black haze, tears openly escaping him.

“Hold my hand, follow me.” She said.

The forest had grown ominously silent, though the mountain continued to scream. Above them, pyroclastic fireflies still flew. The smell of burning was everywhere, the noxious smells were beyond disorientating. The fallen trees barred much of their route, and their faces were blackened by the ash. Taisha's ears pricked up.

“I can hear the river.”

“Wait,” Artifae said between coughs. “We have to find Sylo and Sofia!”

“We won't find anyone if we choke to death in the jungle!” She fired back.

She led them, as Artifae swayed, dizzy and nauseous. He trudged, no longer feeling pain or much of anything, just another speckle of ash in the storm. They followed the sloping ground, past burning trees and broken rocks, before the river emerged again. The breeze battled the noxious air here, with the blue sky being a promise by the other side. The two ran to the bank, happily dipping their hands and running the cool water over their faces, laughing. Life was brought back into Artifae, even if it brought the pain with it again, it was back. Barak'Hara still roared behind them, and burning rock was still launched across the land.

“Which way now?” Artifae asked, breath barely registering within his chest.

“Away from the black-cloud!” Taisha said, pointing towards the dark met the light.

Artifae washed his leg with the cold water, the stinging sensation travelling up his leg and through to his spine. He washed the orange silk in the river, rinsing it and placing it back delicately. He was growing used to the pain, able to numb it for a time. While Taisha washed her face and drank the water, Artifae noticed her staff beside her, broken at the top, one of the feathers struggling to hold on.

“Ah, your stick.” Artifae said sadly.

She turned to it, inspecting it with dread in her eyes.

“It's not too bad.” She said optimistically, but her face still held hurt upon it.

“I'm sorry you had to use it.” He said. “Thank you for saving me, though.”

She smiled sadly at him, wiping a damp piece of hair from away from her face. She coughed lightly. Artifae could still feel the toxins in his chest and past his nostrils. The breeze took away much of the cloying effects, but they were still prevalent in the air. The river bank looked mostly empty, for now at least.

We need to get moving. X only knows what has happened to Sylo and Sofia.

Artifae limped to his feet painfully, as Taisha slowly twirled the staff in her hands. Something glinted within the broken wood.

“What is that?” Artifae asked.

Curiously, the two looked within the fibres of the staff, and saw there was a stone embedded inside. It was a deep green, almost black under the darkening sky. Taisha pulled at it gently, and saw it was loose. She plucked it out, and held the stone within her palm.

“It's a...gem?” Taisha asked.

“Was that in there all this time?”

“I guess so....but why? I don't even know what it...” She trailed off, the dark stone seemed to hum within her palm. She shuddered slightly.

“What is it? What's wrong?” Artie asked, concerned.

She took some hasty gulps fo breath before looking back at Artifae with wide eyes. He felt panic beginning to bubble in his stomach as he watched her take a deep breath.

“I feel...” She said with a strange look in her eye.

“What?” Artifae said, moving closer to her. “Taisha, are you okay?”

Fear flamed in her eyes very suddenly.

“What is this thing? Is it going to hurt me? Why did my father put this in here? To harm me? Should I keep holding it?”

“Hey, hey, it's alright.” Artifae said, placing a hand on her cheek.

She turned to him quickly.

The sky is so dark, but there's so much light in her eyes.

He felt a smile burst past his lips as he admired her, even in her anxiety-riddled, half-scorched state. Suddenly, the look in her eyes changed, too. She smiled, gently cradling his hand on her cheek. She gripped the stone tightly.

“What did your father say when he gave that to you, again?”

“To help me stay compassionate to the people around me. Help me feel what they feel.” She said, almost dreamily.

“There. I don't think he'd say that if he was going to put something in there that would harm you, right?”

She nodded lightly, still smiling at him, rendering everything below his belt to jelly.

The two assembled themselves, following the meandering river over muddy banks and slippery stones. The incline presented itself, and they were forced to scramble up it, staining their hands with the wet soil. Ahead, at the river bend, they could see the ship. The camp was still there, and there were moments of movement between it. Firey rain flailed through the sky, as the darkness deepened. Speckles of ash had followed them.

“Can you see them?” Artie asked.

“No-one yet.”

The jungle in between them swayed under wind and tremor. The dense expanse had movement inside, but whether or not it was friendly, they had no way of knowing.

“We'd better hurry. Sofia and Sylo might already be there.”

“What if they don't make it?” Taisha said, holding the mysterious gem tightly.

“They'll make it.” Artifae said with a confident smile, watching as she matched it with one of hers.

The descent was once again rocky, but they clung to the side of the river, where the breeze was most helpful. The ground quivered under their feet, but soon it became apparent they were not alone.

“Sylo?” Artifae whispered, crouching slightly.

There was a silence.

“Can you hear anything?” He asked Taisha, who tried to concentrate.

There was a movement in the trees opposite. Artfae opened his mouth to speak, and before he could, the High-Eve friend of Kutja's burst from the undergrowth, cutlass overhead. He yelled as he charged them. Without thinking Artifae shoved Taisha out of the way, and awaited his assailant. There was an absence of emotion in the Eve's eyes as he swung the blade, barely missing Artifae and lodging itself briefly in a fallen trunk behind them.

“Go!” He yelled at Taisha, who bolted through the vegetation.

I've got to think of a way to hold him off of us for a while...

He watched as the High-Eve struggled to get the blade out, finally pulling it free, he grinned manically, but Artifae stood his ground as an idea reared its head. Artifae took several steps backwards, watching the charging Eve, until he felt the knot of a root tap his boot. He waited, the swing came, and Artifae ducked as low as he could go, ignoring his burning calf. The High-Eve groaned as the blade sunk itself into the tree directly behind Artie, deeper this time, and Artie drove a fish directly under the traitor's belt.

The High-Eve groaned in a sickly manner as he fell, cradling his groin. Artifae grabbed the cutlass with both hands, finally freeing it as the High-Eve began to get himself up. With his new stolen blade, Artifae fled, following Taisha through her flight. The world became a whirl of green and brown, when suddenly he burst past a prickly bush and a low-hanging tree, to see a small clearing. He almost collided with Taisha, who was standing very still.

“Taisha? Are you-”

Before he could finish his sentence, the smell hit him. Meat, and blood. Taisha slapped her hand onto Artifae's mouth, muffling any curse he was about to utter.

Oh no, it really is one thing after another. Can't we catch a break just yet?

Artifae thought Taisha was staring at a large boulder, but there were ribs sticking out of it. It was a large grey animal, once, now lying on its side. It was a juvenile Terror-tusk, its large ears covered in flies, its trunk half-buried in the dirt. There was a loud chewing sound, and the distinct crack of bone. Something took a bite, and raised a large head, chewing a particularly tough part of muscle.

It's the feathered monster that chased us from before!

Artifae could see this was not the same one that had been wounded by Sylo's guns, but it had a draconian head and was adorned with indigo and purple feathers. It was slightly smaller, but still towering over the two shivering statues beneath its meal.

“Whatever you do...” Taisha whispered as quietly as she could. “Don't make a sound...”

Artifae dared not even gulp, the new sword feeling suddenly very slippery in his palms.

It hasn't noticed us yet, best to keep it that way...

“Where are you?!” Came a shout from behind them.

The monster jerked its head suddenly upwards, and Taisha pulled them both down. The blade clattered as it came into contact with the ground, and the monster emitted a low rumbling from his throat.

“When I find you boy, you're gonna wish that you weren't born with any-”

The sound of trampling footsteps grew louder, the High-Eve called out as he encountered the prickly bush, and pressed through the leaves, face marred with dirt and ash, wielding a serrated knife.

“There you are!” He shouted, a little too loudly.

There was time for a brief flash of confusion on his face, as he saw the terrified look of the two crouched down in the dirt, before he heard the terrible growl. The looming creature snarled as it stepped over the fleshy mass, slipping slightly, eagle-like talons sinking into the ground just inches away from the huddled up pair. The High-Eve screamed and turned to run, but the jaws were already around him. The crunch was sickening.

Artifae pulled Taisha up as the monster busied itself with its side-dish, and past lolling mouth of the dead mammal. He heard Taisha gag at the sight of it, fighting against a sob, but pulled her away diligently. The jungle opened its arms to them, and they were swallowed by it.

*******************************************************************************************

The mountain bellowed behind them.

Though they had escaped the threat of noxious air, the heat was still merciless. Remnants of the sun bared down upon them. Artifae was drenched, filthy and exhausted beyond comprehension. His wounds started to ache again, and he trudged on through the unrelenting walls of foliage as Taisha meekly followed.

“Wait.” She said suddenly, tapping him on the arm. “I can hear something.”

Silently, he followed her as they crept through the mass of verdant leaves, awaiting to find what the jungle had in store for them next. Taisha pushed past a large fern, and in a small clearing, was a large tree. It was ethereally quiet, but Taisha heard what was on the tree. It was a Mountain-Eve, pinned to its large trunk, his silver arms bound by a large shield of wax.

“Sylo!” Artifae said, pushing past Taisha to help him.

The Mountain-Eve looked up with tired eyes. He had been battered and beaten, and a blob of wax had sealed his mouth. As he saw Artifae, his eyes widened with fear. He began to shake his head, muffle shouts emanating from beneath the wax, but it was too late.

“What? What's-”

Something snagged around Artifae's ankle tightly, sending rivers of pain meandering up his side, and suddenly the world turned upside down as he was whisked into the air.

“Artie!” Taisha shouted.

He was dragged upwards, dangling in the air as the rope trap lifted him to the top of a tall branch, several feet away from the ground. Before he could even yell out, a figure jumped out from the bushes, pointed spear in hand. He threw it with a great roar, and Artifae could see the sharp-point sparkle in the lingering sunlight.

Can't move! Can't move! Can't-

Quick as a flash, Taisha had already turned to him, and with a regretful look in her eye, wielded the staff in both hands, and thwacked him like a pinata. Artifae called out in pain as he swayed inches away from the spear, burying itself in the tree behind him.

“You rat!” The figure shouted, brandishing a curved knife.

Oh no, the Frost-Kin again!

Still stuck to the tree, Sylo struggled with the last of his strength. The wax began to weaken from the might of his metal arms, but he could not free himself in time. Sarvi, the Frost-Demon, was covered in dirt and ash similarly, with speckles of blood around his face and body, presumably not his.

My sword! Need my sword!

Artifae endeavoured to reach the sword, the handle of the spear was in reach and helped put a stop to his swaying, but the handle of the cutlass was too far from his out-splayed fingers. Sarvi charged Taisha, who twirled to him, determination fuelling her body.

Come on, you can get him!

Her shoulders tensed, and before the Frost-Demon could get close enough, she threw an underhand strike at his chin, so hard the staff broke in two. Sarvi yelled as he hit the ground, hard. Taisha looked in dismay at her staff, as Sylo continued to try and free himself. Sarvi sat himself up, wiped some dark blood away from his lip. What was a snarl, soon became a smile.

What's he smiling at now? Is he a sicko?

The answer presented itself as he felt something crawling along his leg. He wrenched his head upwards, to see the pale white snake slowly creeping from down the trunk and towards him.

“Taisha!” He yelled. “Get the sword!”

Taisha bounded towards him, but Sarvi was already crawling along the ground. He pulled out his bull-whip, snapping it at Taisha. She yelled as she fell, droplets of blood falling from her cut shirt. The Frost-Kin laughed, withdrawing his curved knife once more, licking his lips with a dark tongue. He straddled Taisha, who wriggled on the ground, pinning her arms, the curved knife aimed at her throat.

“No!” Artifae shouted.

Kielly the snake shimmied around his waist, the last of her tail still hanging on the tree branch above. Her forked tongue danced, her pink eyes filled with a cold hunger. Artifae leaned back, as far as he could. His fingers eventually closed along the spear, arms stretched out as long as he could, pulling with all of his might. As he did, he felt the make-shift knot binding him to the tree begin to give. With all of his strength he pulled, until there was a sharp snap!

He fell heavily, free from Sarvi's trap, as the Frost-Demon looked up at him, worry on his face. The snake dangled from the tree, and Artifae jumped to his feet. With a heavy kick, he slammed against the tree, watching the snake lose grip, and fall. Quickly, he grabbed the spear still sunk into the tree and pulled at it, exposing more of the blade. Kielly the albino cobra fell onto it like a reverse guillotine. Her head separated instantly from her writhing body, now a tail without a beast, as it wriggled the last of its life in the mud.

“Kielly...” The Frost-Kin whispered, his face overcome with despair.

“Kielly, no...Kielly! Kielly!”

He released Taisha and staggered towards Artifae, grief and shock slowly coiling around into white-hot anger. He gripped his curved knife tightly, but was soon sunk to the ground as a metal fist collided with the back of his head. Sarvi grunted as he landed face-first in the dirt, out cold. Sylo was panting, and offered Taisha a hand up, as he pulled the wax out of his matted beard.

“You alright?” He asked, and she nodded.

Artifae got himself up, his sword back in hand.

“Nice work.” Sylo said, crouching down to inspect Sarvi.

From under the Frost-Kin's jacket, he withdrew his two magnums, greeting his old friends with a warm smile. Artifae looked back at the dead snake, now completely still with a sense of deep sadness. Taisha came to him, rubbing his arm gently.

“It's okay. You had to.” She said softly.

“I didn't want to. She was just an animal and I...I've never had to kill anything before.”

“It gets easier.” Sylo said quietly.

“Maybe we should barely her.” Taisha offered.

“No time.” Sylo said, picking Sarvi up by the scruff of his jacket. “Silema will be at the boat by now, Voss knows what's happened to Sofia.”

“Was she with you when you got stuck?” Artifae asked.

“Course. It was me tryin' to save her that got me stuck. Ol' Frosty here was left behind in case someone was stupid enough to come rescue me.” He said with a wry smile. “C'mere, give me a hand.”

They used the last of the rope to tie Sarvi up, and offered a quick burial to Kielly, though no words were spoken.

“Is he gonna be alright, left there when a volcano erupts?” Artifae asked.

“What do you care?” Sylo scoffed. “Probably better off if he ain't, but I get the feelin' he ain't gonna be so easy to get rid of.”

“So why not do him right here? Make sure he never comes back for revenge?” Artifae challenged.

A look of guilt washed over Sylo Teht's face for a second.

“He ain't my contract. Silema is.”

Yeah right. Can't kill a sleeping foe, eh? Maybe you do have a heart, under all that hatred and metal, however black it must be.

The three bounded through the jungle, the smell of burning wood becoming stronger. A forest fire barred their way, as thick smoke quickly ate up the dry foliage. They darted back towards the river, where the evening blaze had been tainted by the oncoming sea of darkness. As they emerged, the dark sails became clearer, and those that remained in Silema's employ busied themselves trying to get through the remnants of the camp and onto the ship.

“I can't see Sofia.” Sylo said, tense.

“Let's hope she's down there.” Taisha said quietly.

Let's hope she's still alive.

“Regardless, we have to go in. You two stay behind me. If one of you falls, we can't go back for you, got it?” Sylo said, looking at them with cold eyes.

“Got it.” Artie said, stifling a gulp.

The three moved away from the barrier of trees and onto the stony shore. Great swabs of mud impeded their speed, but they moved with purpose, as the mountain sounded again. More fireballs flew through the air, carving red cuts into the clouds' inky flesh. As they approached, they could hear a clamour. Men were shouting, and the unmistakable shrill ring of swords hung in the air.

“Do you hear that?” Artie asked the two Eves, already knowing they had.

“Is that a friend of ours?” Taisha asked.

“Could be infighting.” Sylo mused. “Pirates breaking under the pressure.”

The ship swayed in its mooring, close to the shore. The wind carried ash and darkness with it, and the sails flapped and rattled in their bonds. The majority of the personnel here did not notice their approach from the shore, and within the remaining camp, they saw a golden figure, sword brightly flashing as it cut down a Porcine pirate, his body another in a trail left in the warrior's wake.

“It's Sofia!” Taisha shouted, speeding up as she bounced from slippery rock to wet sand.

The Demeterosi ambassador was tired, blood and ash streaked her brilliant appearance. She was surrounded by four pirates of different races, all with grim bloodlust seeping from their pores. Her breathing had quickened, and the shield looked heavy in her hands.

“We have to help her!” Artifae shouted, bounding in front of Sylo, who had paused to study the situation.

“No.” He said firmly. “She can manage on her own. Silema is our target.”

“We can't face her without Sofia!” Taisha complained.

“We're headed for the ship. If the Senator is anywhere, she'll be there.”

The Tigron pirate flashed his fangs as he swung an axe at Silema, blocking with her shield. Immediately, the other three came at her from all sides. She deflected two swords, but a spear cut her golden thigh. Her scream perforated the sky, and Artifae felt his legs leading him over the wet, ash-painted rocks. He held his cutlass tightly in one hand, surging towards her.

“Oi! Kid! Get back here!” He heard Sylo shout.

He looked quickly behind him to see Taisha following, Sarvi's spear held tightly in both hands.

Just hold on, Sofia!

They raced past the broken and abandoned tents, evidence of fire-pits and cooking pots were left behind. Assortments of garments and tools had been hastily strewn to the floor, or left by those who did not survive. Crew members hurried past them, barely noticing either of them, as they hurried to the ship. Sofia still battled, but had been pushed back into a corner, her defences lowering.

“Sofia!” Artifae shouted.

Her emerald eyes lit up, and her attackers looked back to him. The Cassowara, a bird-like sapient with a short, jet-black beak, a brown crest, and a long plumed neck of red and blue, charged with their spear at him. Artifae sliced downwards, as Taisha charged blindly with her spear. She locked with a gaunt Sun-Orkan, his yellow-green skin covered in blue tattoos and a piercing on his bottom lip, which stuck out within an under-bite filled with yellow teeth, his scimitar catching the spear-point in air. Sofia used the distraction to her advantage, stabbing the Mud-Goblin in the back with her sword, as the Tigron cursed, his battle-axe swerving at her.

The Cassowara jabbed quickly and repeatedly at Artie, who was rapidly losing ground. His boot slipped on a ragged piece of canvas that had once been a tent. The golden eyes of the Avian glared as he jabbed his spear at Artifae's neck. Artie fell forwards into a roll, losing his sword, but his hands gripped the light material as he came up again. As he rose, he threw the canvas over the Cassowara's head. The pirate spun in confusion, spear dropping form his black talons. From where the tent had been, Artifae gripped a small shovel that had been left behind with a bucket, and clanged the attacker's head. He fell, unconscious, and Artifae ran, shovel above his head, to help Taisha.

As hot rang out, and the Sun-Orkan cried out, gripping his shoulder. Taisha used the butt of her spear, hitting him under his chin so hard a tusk-like tooth chipped. From behind them, Sylo stood, a disappointed glare and a smoking gun. The Tigron yelled out as Sofia's sword cut him diagonally, and he fell.

“Thank you for your assistance, young warriors.” She said, her shoulders slumping.

Taisha and Artifae beamed, as Sylo called out to them.

“Come on! To the ship! There isn't much time!”

As they ran through the camp, small fires had swelled, taking the grass and tents quickly. The pirates on the ship noticed their coming, and disembarked the gangplank. They saw the crew quickly the anchor.

“We mustn't let the ship escape!” Sofia shouted, sprinting past the three of them.

She waded into the shallows as the ship began to drift away, and turned to them, crouching. She held her shield above her head.

“Jump!” She commanded.

Sylo barged past the two fot hem, his long legs slowly crossing the wading water, and with all his strength, he jumped, boot reaching the shield, and Sofia pushed upwards. Sylo was propelled upwards, but not nearly high enough to reach the deck. His metal fingers enclosed around a port-hole, and there he dangled.

“Now!” Sofia shouted.

Taisha sprinted through the water, spear dropping to one hand, and was also propelled. She soared up towards Sylo, who caught her with a free hand, quickly swinging her upwards, and she dissapeared over the railing.

No, she's going to be all alone up there!

“Now you, boy!” Sofia called out.

Artifae felt the cold water cut at his wound, his energy being sapped by the torrent and momentum failing. The cutlass was in his left hand, and with what little strength he had, he leapt out of the water. Sofia crouched to compensate for his lack of altitude, roaring as she thrusted him upwards. His lungs sank to the bottom of his stomach as he raced through the air, past the barnacle and limpet encrusted hull, towards Sylo's waiting hand.

The metal grasped him firmly, as Sylo arced his arm upwards. Artifae was hit with instant nausea as he was thrown even higher, and towards the railing. He caught it with one hand, pulling himself upwards. Gentle hands grabbed him, pulling him on board.

“Are you okay?” Taisha asked.

Artifae looked past her, as the crew began to notice them, pointing and gathering weapons. There were only a few who survived the battle on Brak'Hara, but it was clear they wanted them dead.

Oh crap.

Artifae quickly looked down the railing at the hanging Mountain-Eve. He stuck his hand through the gap, leaning as far as he could. He saw Sylo muster strength, grabbing the port-hole with both hands and jumping as far as he could. The metal hands once again came into contact with Artifae's, but the weight was too much. Artifae was pulled face-first into the rail, pullign with both hands, but the Eve was too heavy.

“Come on!” Taisha shouted, dropping her spear to run behind him.

She grabbed Sylo by the coat, and the two of them heaved the Eve up. His metal hands gripped the railing and pulled himself up. Before his boots hit the deck, his hands whirled behind him, withdrawing his pistols. The magnums opened fire, two bullets sinking into an Ogrin sailor.

“C'mon, let's find her, quick!” He growled.

“What about Sofia?” Taisha asked.

“I think she's fine without us.” Artie said, peering over the railing.

The Demeterosi had taken a run up, and sprinted towards the ship, now drifting further out into the current. With a leap far greater than what they could achieve, she dashed up the ship of the ship, carefully grabbing ledges and port-holes, and propelled herself over the railing. She withdrew her sword and sounded a charge, racing into the fray.

“Get the anchor! Make sure this ship doesn't move!” Sylo yelled.

Artie nodded, and he and Taisha ran further down the wet deck. The anchor had been recalled into a hasty pile of rope, guarded by a large Lupine who withdrew two blades. He snarled through his fangs. What Artifae first thought was the moutnain crying out, turned out to be a different explosion. The mast splintered as Kutja, aiming from the bow, took aim at them with a dirty smile.

That bloody Dvergr!

The Lupine snarled as he lunged at them, slicing with both blades at both targets. Artifae blocked one, as Taisha dodged the other. Another explosion crackled, and part of the deck burst into fragments. Taisha lunged with her spear, but the Lupine sent out a swift kick to her stomach, sending her backwards. Before Artifae could call out, the second blade was sent at him. He dodged, pivoting on his boot, twirling to his attacker's side. The Lupin spun around, both blades sent down, as another explosion sounded. The Lupine bolted upright, his eyes wide, as he fell forwards. He heard Kutja cursing, as he released the chamber on Ol' Beauty, dropping the empty shells. The Lupine slumped on top of Artifae, his heavy carcass still twitching, until it fell to the floor.

“You okay?” He called out to Taisha.

“I'm fine, just get the anchor!” She shouted back.

Artifae ran, grabbing the thick rope with both hands. The jagged metal anchor was not a sizeable one, but it was dense, and Artifae struggled to get it off of the ground. He pulled it back.

No use in throwing it unless I can make sure it gets caught on something.

As the ship drifted away, the emerging rocks remained by the shore's side. Instead, he looked upwards. The mask swayed, tightening against the wind, as molten volcanic rock rained behind it. The sails were bound with rope and netting, and an idea formed. With all of his strength, he tossed the rope upwards, until it snagged against the rope that hung by the banners.

“What are you doing?” Taisha called out, distressed.

“It's alright! I know what I'm doing!” Artifae lied.

Stowig the cutlass in the belt-loop of his trousers, he began to climb the netting. He heard more gunshots and sounds of men dying, before he heard Sylo callign out to him.

“Where the Hel are you going now?”

Artifae ignored him, climbing up the rigging, until he reached the horizontal spar. Hesitantly, he climbed onto it, struggling with his balance. From his peripherals, he saw the Bronze-Dvergr cock his gun, taking aim once more. The bullet whizzed by, and Artifae lost his balance. He clasped the log as he fell, his feet dangling in the air. From below he saw a tall figure with black hair and shining hands running towards the mast, grabbing at it with both hands.

Another shot landed inches away.

Just need to reach the anchor...

He was closer now than when he had been standing, but his stretched fingers were not quite close enough. Sweat poured from him, as he reached, so close he could feel the fibres.

“Kid!” Sylo shouted, reaching the spar.

“I've...almost...got it!”

His hand began to slip around the log, as Sylo's metal hands clamped around his jacket. As he dropped slightly, his free hand grabbed the anchor. With all of his strength, he lifted it up, tossing it to Sylo, who caught it in a free hand. Sylo pulled Artifae back onto the beam, and looked out to the shore. Using his bionic arms, he whirled the anchor around, spinning as he threw it. The anchor soared, the rope growing taut, as it bounced on top of a wet rock, scraping against its sodden surface.

No! Missed!

The rock hopped along the rocks, until finally sinking into a crevice. The rope flew, until suddenly growing tight. The entire ship juddered, and the two on the beam lurched forwards, steadying themselves on the netting.

“Yes!” Artie called out, laughing.

“That'll do for now.” Sylo said, allowing himself a small smile.

The river roared past them, and the rope struggled against itself. The ship creaked and groaned. They were now in the middle of the current. Sofia climbed to the bow and had been battling Kutja, using her shield to throw him off the landing and onto the main deck. He landed with a heavy crack. Sylo immediately grabbed a guide rope, pulling it towards him.

“Come on!” He shouted, taking a step back.

He jumped, swinging through the air, his boots aimed at the Bronze-Dvergr who tried to get up. The heavy kick smacked Kutja in the back, sending him into the wooden wall where the crew quarters lay, the wood bending and breaking as Kutja fell through it. He landed delicately next to the Dvergr, walking ominously towards him, guns withdrawn.

I can't do that, I'll have to climb!

As Artifae neared the mast, a burning meteor of glass punctured the top sail, and the fire quickly spread, consuming much of it in seconds. It began to recede before finally reaching the mast. Another blast of rock struck the hull, and the wounded ship began to toss in pain. The fire caught onto the netting, burning fibres falling onto him.

Alright, rope swing it is.

He reached towards the dangling rope, grabbing it and pulling it towards him. He had time for a single deep breath, before pushing forwards. He screamed as he flew through the air, barely missing Sylo, who ducked to escape the contact, as Artifae swung around in a circle. He released his grip and landed ungracefully onto the deck. Taisha came running to him, but as he got up, he saw he had allowed Kutja to get the jump on Sylo. He rammed the butt of Ol' Beauty into his temple, and again into his stomach. The Mountain-Eve slumped to the deck as Kutja noticed Artifae and Taisha, waving at them with a wicked smile. From behind him he produced a sphere, with a short fuse sticking out of it. With a thick thumb, he clicked at the hammer on the back of his revolver. The heavy metal instantly created a spark, and the fuse began to sizzle. With a filthy laugh, he rolled it towards them like a bowls ball.

The bomb rolled towards them as Artifae darted tot he side, but realised Taisha had not followed him. Instead, she stepped up towards it, spinning the spear round, wielding it like a club, and pulled it back. With a mighty shove, she propelled the grenade back, flying off of the ground, and landing into the room behind Kutja. He had a second to curse, before the room exploded. Splinters of wood, fabric and metal flew through the air with a great cloud of smoke that consumed Kutja.

Ol' Beauty went flying out of his hands, spinning past the unconscious Sylo Teht and onto the deck. The two ran to the Mountain-Eve, helping him off of the deck. Sylo groaned as Taisha gently patted at his face. He scrunched up his face, irritably as he woke up.

“Wha?” He muttered.

“C'mon, Sofia needs us! Let's get you up!” Artifae said, grabbing him by an arm and pulling up.

Suddenly, his fingers released him, as a Bronze-Dvergr sat himself up from beneath a blanket of rubble. His shirt had been ripped, and his body was scratched numerous times. He growled like a wounded boar, his hands reaching behind him, this time pulling out a thick machete. The fires behind them spread further, fanned by the wind. The burning sail ripped and fell below, causing more small fires that sprinted along the rail lining.

“Come on then boy. Let's see what you can do, eh?” Kutja growled, blood seeping through his bottom teeth.

Artifae stepped forwards, withdrawing his sword.

“Taisha, find Sofia.” He said, speaking like a captain. “I've got this.”

“No you don't.” Sylo said, stepping forwards.

He dropped his guns onto the deck, and took off his torn leather jacket. He cracked his artificial knuckles, and then his neck. Kutja grinned.

Time to end this!

Taisha raced past them, up the remnants of the broken steps and onto the heaving bow. Kutja began to circle them, a vulture with a blade, spitting a glob of blood onto the wooden ground. He feigned an attack at Artie, causing him to flinch, and laughed maliciously, but it was Sylo who made the first move. With a metal fist, he struck at Kutja, who dodged surprisingly elegantly out of the way, catching a metal wrist with a downward strike. Artifae charged, sword held high, but Kutja dodged out of the way. Artie collided with Sylo, who shoved him out of the way, and lunged with both hands. He caught Kutja by his thick neck, and lifted him slowly off of the ground by a few inches. Kutja once more dove into the pack by his buttocks, and withdrew his final surprise.

There were white crystals, translucent under light, and he threw them as hard as he could, clamping his eyes shut and looking away. The crystals sparked and exploded as they hit the deck, a great blast of dust appearing between them, and a flash of light. Artifae was dazzled, his ears ringing painfully, and eyes were blotches with dark spots. Sylo called out in pain, and then again. Artifae shook his head, hearing a manic, booming laugh.

“Oh X, I love me some blinding powder.” Kutja growled.

His shape began to return, and then a blurred figure crouched on the ground, dark liquid seeping from his stomach. Artifae blinked continuously, until Kutja reappeared, rubbing at his own eyes, and surrounded by dark spots. Sylo was holding his stomach with one hand, groping at the floor with the other.

He actually looks scared...

Kutja pressed a thick boot onto Sylo's chest, forcing him down.

“To hell with the bounty. This si just gon' be fun.”

He grabbed the machete with both hands, holding it above his head, his eyes glinting with dark desires. Sylo's breath was stolen, and his eyes were looking elsewhere. He reached forwards, fingers towards Artifae. Broken timbers began to crack above, the smoke was swept by the wind, enveloping them. Artifae gulped.

He's too strong for me to tackle by myself, he'll kill us both in a single swing!

Artifae looked around, and found Ol' Beauty.

Grabbign the revolver in both hands, he ran full pelt at the Dvergr, not thinking to shoot him in cold blood. With the barrel clenched between his fists, he swung the grip as hard as he could at the Dvergr's chin, colliding with his blood-stained beard. A dirty tooth flew upwards, followed by a small spray of blood, as Kutja stumbled backwards, hitting the rail. He swung wildly at the charging Western-man, but missed. Artifae swung with the heavy pistol again, hitting Kutja's cheek, causing him to spin, then Artifae rammed him with his shoulder. Pushing with all of his weight, he managed to lift the heavy brigand over the side, but a sweat, meaty fist grabbed Artifae's wrist.

No! He's too heavy!

“Either you fall with me, boy, or I take your hand with me!” He shouted, machete still brandished.

The weight yanked at Artifae, threatening to dislocate his arm from his shoulder. He pulled as hard as he could, but the grip was of iron.

“Fine, arm it is then!”

The machete came down.

Too...Heavy!

A metal hand caught the blade.

“Eh?!” Kutja shouted, confused.

Sylo pulled the machete upwards, yanking it from Kutja's grip, and swiftly brought it down on the arm that clenched at Artifae. Kutja screamed in agony, and again the second time it came down, and he fell, leaving only a bloody hand of Dvergr meat still gripping Artifae.

“Oh, gross!” Artifae shouted, shoving it to the floor and shivering.

The two panted, looking voer again, confirming that the Dvergr had been lost to the waves.

“Thanks for the save. Again.” Artifae said.

“Likewise.” Sylo said, offering a small smile.

The fire spread to the deck, timbers beginning to collapse. The mast broke, sending the burning rigging crashing down. The ship juddered and shook wildly.

“Let's go see how the girls got on, eh?” Sylo said, patting Artifae on the shoulder as he passed.

Artifae looked at the Dvergr weapon in his hand, then back to the running Mountain-Eve.

“Come, to the poop-deck!” Sylo shouted.

“What, now?! Can't you hold it in?”

Sylo sighed wearily.

“That's the top deck, where the captain's quarters is, idiot!”

“Right!” He said, smiling as he bounding after Sylo.

“Although I'll be honest, I made that exact same joke the first time I 'eard it too.”

*******************************************************************************************

The wood creaked below them, the weight of the burning wood disrupting the balance of the ship. Barrels and bodies began to drift to the starboard side. The stairs screamed as they climbed it, and as they reached the elevated forecastle, where the captain's quarters lay, Artifae could see a crowd had formed on the beach, watching them anxiously.

Looks like the Captain made it, thank X! Now we just need to survive this...

The helm groaned as it rotated without provocation, the fire sending great wafts of smoke towards them. There were sounds of fighting within the wooden shack, the door had been wrenched off of its hinges. A new cloud of smoke ran out to meet them, though this one carried undertones of perfume with it. The small office had been filled with candles once, now remnants of their wax remained stained to every piece of furniture and surface.

Immediately to their left, Taisha had been pinned by wax, she struggled under a great clasp of it, spear out of reach. In the centre, Sofia had her sword buried into a wall of wax, and Silema crouched beneath it, smiling wildly, but her breath growing ragged.

We need to finish this, quickly!

In the far corner, was the cowering Professor. His linen suit was dark with ash and dirt as he cradled a black leather briefcase, his spectacles had been chipped and cracked. He gulped with fear as the two entered the room, and he immediately locked eyes with Artie.

“P-please!” He said, shielding himself with a hand. “I-I only led her to find the tower! I'm not with her pirates! I'm a professor!”

“Best be on yer way then, professor..” Sylo hissed. “'Cos ship ain't got long, and neither do she.”

Professor Kasar whimpered, looking at Silema, who shot daggers through his eyes. He hastily got up, almost a crawl, and bounded past them. He stood on the poop-deck, looking from port to starboard.

“H-how do I get down?!”

“Jump, moron.” Sylo said without looking back. “Or burn. Either or.”

He took a step forwards, gun brandished at Silema.

“Get the girl.” He barked at Artifae.

He unloaded a shot at the wax, breaking what bound Sofia's sword. Another bullet cracked it entirely. Artifae ran to Taisha, hacking at the wax until her arms were freed.

“Are you alright?” He asked fearfully.

“Yeah, I'm okay/” She said, flecks of wax over her chin and neck.

He looked back, as Sofia and Sylo backed Silema into a corner.

“You can't stop me.” Silema said, her strange eyes growing wilder than ever. “I will render you into nothing!”

She reached at Sofia with a claw-like hand, the black glyphs appearing within the air. Sofia backed behind her shield, the palm laid upon it. Silema growled, as the glyphs spun and shook the shield. A rumbling sound clattered along Sofia's wrist, as the shield shrunk and changed, transforming into lumps of ore and rock, leaving only a leather strap on her wrist.

Silema shuddered, the pendulums in her eyes racing until finally stopping again. She looked faint, swaying, alone. Sofia looked to her wrist, and then sent a furious glare to Silema. She sent a fist into the former senator's face, and Silema fell.

“That'll do it.” Sylo said, holstering his weapons.

Sofia sighed in relief.

“I've done it...”

Outside, the mizzenmast, the support beam for the entire ship, finally fell. The ship cracked in half, as the poop-deck was lifted into the air.

“Time to go!” Artie shouted, barely keeping his balance.

Sylo picked up the unconscious Silema, hauling her like a sack of grain over his shoulder. The four of them leapt down the remnants of the stairs. The deck was splintering, revealing a fissure that led into the flowing river.

“Get the rope!” Sylo shouted.

Artifae and Silema hauled it over to them, and Sofia helped quickly bind Silema's arms. Embers hailed down upon them, the smoke growing thicker. Sylo grabbed Silema, without looking back, leapt into the river. Silema was submerged, waking as she re-merged, struggling against her constraints. Sylo grabbed her, and swam against the current, towards where the anchor still loyally held. The last of the sails and masts fell behind them, as the three followed suite. The drop was dizzying, and the freezing water stole his breath. The opaque water quickly turned to darkness, and the sounds of the dying ship became tremors. As he looked up, the teals and azures became oranges and red, a light to either the surface, or to Hel.

Swim, damn it, swim!

He emerged, gaspign for breath, and received only smoke. He choked and coughed, as Taisha called out to him. The river assailed him, and he struggled against it, his hair lank against his face. He fought against the oncoming current, barely moving, before letting it drift him slightly. As the river meandered, it became shallow, and he exhaustedly climbed the slippery rocks, choking and spluttering.

We made it...I'm not even sure how, at this point!

He trudged with sodden clothes towards where Taisha and Sofia had emerged. He saw the golden warrior brandish her sword a final time, bringing it down on the anchor. The ship rasped angrily as it was free of its bond, slowly being pushed by the river. It began to turn, passing Artifae, sinking quicker, great bouts of steam and smoke flying forwards. He heard cheers from the remnants of the crew as they made their way back. Sylo dragged a struggling Silema onto the sound, delivering her like a prize before them.

Artifae slipped and struggled on the legs of a ghost, barely able to feel anything but pain. His boots squeaked as water leaked out of the newly formed holes. His new jacket was torn, and his plumed hat had been lost. Taisha hobbled towards him on shaking legs, clasping him tightly, the spear finally falling form her hands. They held each-other close, pausing only to look at one another in the eyes. Her eyes looked towards his lips, as the two leaned in close.

“Oh my X, you guys!” A woman shouted.

Artifae and Taisha groaned as Li Misha's arms wrapped around their necks, pulling them both in tightly, laughing and smiling gleefully.

“I'm so glad you guys aren't dead!”

Artifae laughed, pulling away from her embrace.

“Just barely.” Artie said through an easy grin.

Misha and Taisha went about talking, exchanging experiences of what had only been a day, now that Artifae thought about it, as he approached the Captain, who spoke eagerly with Sofia, even grasping Sylo Teht's arm. Besides them, Ban stood, surveying the assembled crew, a strange dark hat on their head. When they saw Artifae approach, they offered him a smile.

“Hey, Sajaestan.” They shouted, removing their hat. “I saved your stupid hat.”

They tossed it to him, Artifae catchign it just before it landed in the muddy sand.

“You found it? How?”

Ban shrugged, grinning. The Captain turned to him, offering him a proud nod, and turned to address the last of his crew.

“Back to the estuary! We'll follow the river down.”

From behind the group, the massive Ogrin, Dhurz, pointed at the sky.

“Look! Big mountain's getting' angry!”

The darkness was streaked with flashes of ominous red. Crimson bolts seared through the air, and in the distance, its roar was still heard. Sylo picked up Sielma, now conscious, her mouth tied, her eyes wild, but her strength was not enough to free herself from her constraints.

The group reached the estuary by the time darkness overtook the land, save for the violent glow of Barak'Hara. The golden warriors of Demeterios were diligently waiting, more had embarked from the three longships in expectation, and greeted Sofia with relief. The pirates ship was still moored, and the camp had been looted. A few of the Captain's crew remained, having taken The Octavia for themselves.

Sylo dumped the writhing Silema onto the sand, her hat mattered, her eyes full of hate. Sylo dusted his hands.

“There you go, ambassador.” He said.

“I thank you.” Sofia said, dipping her head. “I thank all of you. Truly a noble group of warriors you have cultivated here, Captain.”

Captain Dhib Albahr looked back at his ragged, tired and bloody crew with a warm smile.

“They will do.” He said happily.

The Demeterosi picked up Silema, as Sofia said her final goodbyes. Dhurz stomped past the crew with his ragged boots exposing one toe, pushing aside the Captain and first-mate.

“I go with you, tiny lady.” He boomed. “Tiny strong lady.”

She looked up at him with sad eyes.

“We go now back to our people, Dhurz, brave fighter. I am afraid you cannot follow. Our path is complete, yours is still ahead of you.”

“But-but, Dhurz follows she who is strongest. What is Dhurz to do now?”

“I suggest you follow those of strong will, rather than strong arm. That, is the true test of a leader, and from what I have seen, you would do well to follow the Captain, if he will have you.”

Dhurz looked back, his eyes nearly tearing up.

“There is always a place on board my ship for those who feel they have no place anywhere else.” He said, jutting his chest out slightly.

“Dhurz follow tiny man? You could not beat me in wrestling, like strong golden lady!”

“Perhaps not.” The Captain mused. “However, I dare say our journeys will lead you to fight many strong opponents, if you wish for that to be your path.”

Dhurz chewed on this for a second, before grinning broadly. He offered a hand to Captain Albahr, who grasped it, wincing when the Ogrin squeezed it.

“Dhurz will follow you, tiny captain. Dhurz will cook too, you will enjoy.”

“Very well.” The Captain wheezed, trying to hide his pain.

Artifae was smiling looking at the scene, but could see something was amiss. As he looked through the crowd, someone was missing.

Where's Sylo gone?

The Mountain-Eve had skulked back towards the jungle, taken a disused bag from the camp and was checking ti for supplies, when Artifae limped over to you.

“You really gonna leave without saying goodbye?”

Sylo turned quickly, almost reachign fro his pistol, when he saw Artifae standing proudly in his torn attire. He sighed lightly, and stood up.

“My deal with the cap'n is done.” He said, not looking Artifae in the eye. “Best be off, find my next job.”

“There's always a job here, as far as I can gather.”

Sylo chuckled.

“Got too high a bounty on my head, kid. Not gonna stick around until you lot realise you'll earn more money handin' me in than you would treasure huntin'.”

Artifae shook his head.

“No-one's gonna turn you in. We're a crew, we earn our place, and we look out for each-other.”

Sylo chuckled again, but with a darker tone this time.

“What do I keep tellin' you, kid? People ain't like that. Soon as someone can look out for themselves, they will. Soon as I'm more valuable as a prize than a person, you'll see.”

“So, make sure you are more valuable.” Artifae said, stepping closer. “You save dmy life dozens of times back there. I know you don't want to be a killer. You're like the rest of us, purposeless.”

Sylo shook his head, fighting against a grin.

“People give each-other purpose, Sylo.” Artifae said, almost desperately. “We can give you that.”

“An' be what? A treasure hunter?”

Artie shrugged.

“Crooked was the path, brazen was the walk.” He said simply. “What else have you got? Join a different pirate crew?”

Sylo looked at him with earnest eyes, perhaps for the first time. Behind them, the crowd began to move towards the skiffs. The Captain walked up the beach and cupped his hands over his mouth.

“Mister Sajaestan! Mister Teht! Are we ready?”

Artifae looked to Sylo Teht, the killer with silver hands, and received a smile. Together, the two walked down towards to meet the others.

I guess finding a purpose is as good as having one, sometimes. Although, I think my purpose now is to find a bed and sleep for several weeks.

The ship sailed through the black. As they left the storming clouds, the stars revealed themselves. Great tapestries of cosmic entities welcomed them away from the mountain of fire. Artifae leant across a railing, watching the golden ships disappear into the night. He fought against the heavy eyelids, desperate to close.

“Hey, kid.” Sylo said behind him.

Artifae slowly turned, with an exhausted smile. Between silver fingers, was a great Bronze-Dvergr pistol, with gold letters emblazoned onto it.

“Figured you might need a new weapon. Probably best not to keep droppin' this one, though.”

Artifae studied Ol' Beauty with awe, tentatively taking it with both hands. It was heavy with one hand. He tried to twirl it on a finger like he had seen on the spherevision, but it was harder than it looked. Sylo watched him, arms folded, amused.

“You gonna teach me how to shoot?” Artie asked, excitedly.

“I can teach you to shoot.” He replied. “Voss knows if I can teach you to hit anythin', though.”

Artie placed the weapon, leaning against the guard, as Sylo stood next to him, looking at the endless flood of black.

“So, we're part of The Sea Wolf, now, eh?” Sylo said.

Artifae chuckled.

“Looks like it. Better than The Octavia. Sounds more dangerous.” He said, studying the Eve. “I'm glad you decided to join us, though.”

He gave him a quick glance, hoping to see a smile, but Sylo looked sorrowful at this.

“What are you gonna tell your friend?” He asked, hoarsely.

“My friend?” Artifae asked.

“You said I killed your friends teacher.” Sylo said carefully. “Se Iring. What are you gonna tell him when he finds out you're hangin' out with the one who killed his mentor?”

Artifae felt his chest become hollow.

“I...I hadn't really thought about it, honestly.”

Sylo nodded, still staring into the abyssal horizon. The clouds finally departed, letting the pink moon show its face, assembled with the stars.

“I know he wants to kill you.” Artifae said.

“You think he could?”

“Probably not.” Artie admitted. “He's only my age. He's a student, and he's a Nocterran.”

“A Nocterran...” Sylo said thoughtfully. “Been a while since I fought one of those.”

“Maybe I won't have to worry about it.” Artifae said, thinking quickly. “Maybe by then he'll get over it, or maybe you'll annoy us so much we decide we have to turn you in.”

Sylo laughed.

“Yeah, maybe.”

The newly christened Sea-Wolf glided through the night, while the crew slept soundly and heavily, ready for their next adventure.

*******************************************************************************************

The firey mountain of Barak'Hara rumbled all through the night. Dawn was barely acknowledged as the darkness still lingered. The last three members of the Thieves Union had climbed a mountain to escape it, resting within a cavern, wishing for rain. Their leader, Sagreepa Roosa, had not slept, for she knew what was coming. While her two team-mates had slept, she had risked taking her cowl off, and used what little water was left to wash her face, but the paranoia was there. In the Thieves Union, to risk another member seeing your face, was to risk death. The larger of her compatriots, whose face or race she did not know, but was only known to her as Engel, was the first to stir.

“Is it morning, yet?” He growled.

“Yeah, but you wouldn't know.”

The skinnier one, a woman with a raspy voice she called Nuqta, awoke at hearing them. She stretched luxuriously.

“X above, the volcano is still going?”

“It was going throughout the night.” Sagreepa said, irritable from exhaustion.

“What's our next move?” The male asked, standing up and walking to the entrance of the cavern.

“We wait here for a spell.” Sagreepa said, trying not to let the tremble enter her voice. “Wait for the volcano to cease.”

“That's it?”

Of course that wasn't it, for she knew what was coming.

“Don't be stupid.” The woman said, slinking towards her like a snake, golden eyes peering through the visor in her cowl. “She knows what we have to do next.”

“Stop it.” Sagreepa said, stepping away from the two of them, and grabbing her satchel, but she could still feel their predatory eyes upon her.

“I will do so, privately.” She said, still trying to reign in her authority as team leader, though it was painfully absent.

Engel and Nuqta looked at each-other, though their faces were hidden, Sagreepa knew they were smiling callously at one another. Sagreepa withdrew her blade.

“I am still your team captain!” She shouted.

“So what?” Engel growled.

“You're not who're we're worried about.” Nuqta hissed.

The two pounced on her, grabbing her by her arms and forcing her to the ground. Engel pressed his weight down upon her, so she couldn't even scream out, as Nuqta went through her satchel.

“No! Don't!” She managed to call out.

Nuqta found what appeared to be a slate disc within her back, and studied it with a mystical awe, her eyes flashing cruelly at Sagreepa. Carefully, she placed the disc in front of Sagreepa,pressing into it with a finger, until a ring in the centre of the disc glowed. She snarled and helped Engel pull her up by her arms, as her legs struggled uselessly behind her.

“Please, don't do this...” Sagreepa pleaded.

They waited for several agonising minutes, until Sagreepa heard the noise she had been dreading. The glow faded slightly, and they heard the sound fo clattering stones as the disc itself pulsated, bulging. Reaching upwards until it took the form of a stone figure in front of them.

“Sagreepa. Finally. I've been awaiting your call.” The Figure said with a deep voice.

“Master Kestrel.” Engel said. “We have failed our mission to kill The Senator and retrieve the head. We await your orders, and offer our leader for her penance.”

The small figure was masked, but not with a cowl. It was of a bird of prey in flight, closer to a helmet. He had a long cloak, and similar attire to the rest of the Union members, though it was fashioned with a sigil of a similar raptor in flight. He had spiked shoulder pauldrons, gauntlets and greaves, and beside his waist, was a short, thin sword. Small of stature, but dreaded throughout the Union.

The Kestrel sighed.

“What happened?” He asked calmly.

“There was another party.” Nuqta hissed. “A battle between them broke out, our approach was too direct.”

The Kestrel nodded.

“What has happened to the Senator?”

“Taken.” Nuqta answered. “Taken by warriors with gold skin.”

“Gold skin? Interesting. Was the head found?”

“Not that we could see, Master Kestrel.”

“Very well.” The Kestrel said. “Then the head is the priority. If for any reason, the Senator should reappear, I expect you to take care of her, but if she wasn't the one to find the head, then it hasn't be found. Is there anyone else who knows of its location?”

“There...was a...professor...” Sagreepa wheezed, terror seeping from her pores.

“Then find him. Eliminate him if need be.”

The Kestrel turned to leave, before returning.

“This will be your last chance, for all of you. As for you, Roosa.”

Sagreepa felt her eyes swelling with tears, her body began to shake.

“Remove her cowl.”

“No, no!” Sagreepa struggled, terrified.

Eagerly, clammy hands gripped the mask, pulling ti reluctantly away from her face, revealing the pink, fleshy face of a Porcine. Her large nostrils flared, her dark eyes were terrified. She was lean for a Porcine, her coarse black hair tied up behind her.

“So that's what you look like, huh.” The Kestrel said maliciously.

“Please, Master, give me another chance...”

“Oh, I will, don't worry.” He said, withdrawing his sword.

The small stone figure pointed the blade forwards, and Sagreepa's body grew still. She felt the tip of an invisible blade against her cheek. She whimpered as the sharp metal drew a line across her flesh, leaving a red streak that began to leak.

“I've seen your face now, Sagreepa.” The Kestrel said, its body slowly turning into a cascade of stones. “No more failures.”

The disc clattered back to its original state, and her two compatriots released her. She sat there, gasping for her stolen air, her cheek stinging, in the quiet gloom of the cave.

No more failures.