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Chapter 37: Foreboding


As Lonewolf finished writing in his journal, he heard a sudden knock at his office door. Closing his journal and getting up to investigate who was at his door, Lonewolf turned the door knob and pulled his door open. "Yes?" He asked as he opened his door.

"Good morning, Lone!!" There stood Pana Sule, smiling brightly. She was quite the sight to behold, wearing a long sleeve, white blouse that was tied at the chest, which would've revealed her belly button, if not for the black bustier with purple laces she was wearing. A rather intricately designed black, long skirt flowed pass her knees. The designs on the skirt resembled large purple roses which covered each layer of the dress, each layer flowed over her laps almost like petals from a flower, also revealing her legs slightly through the small spaces between layers. Lonewolf could see that she was wearing black fishnet stockings along with knee-high, black, leather high heels tied with laces at the knees. However, what caught Lonewolf's attention the most was the necklace Pana wore...it was a black, collar-like necklace with a dark purple rose attached to the front.

"Good morning, Pana...interesting necklace you have on today." Said Lonewolf as he pointed at the strangely colored rose on Pana's neck piece. Throughout his travels, Lonewolf had never seen a rose of that color before...it was quite attractive actually. Pana looked down slightly to see what Lonewolf was looking at, then looked back at him, "Oh, thank you, Lone." She smiled warmly again. "I've never seen a rose of that color before. Where did you get it?" Asked Lonewolf, genuinely curious.

"Oh this?" Pana began fiddling with the rose's petals, "These flowers are common in my village. I'm surprised you've never seen these kind of roses before...but then again, you ARE a human." She giggled slightly after that last remark. "Do you want one of these roses?" She asked suddenly, almost excited to give Lone a gift. Lonewolf smiled warmly and nodded, "Yes, please. They're beautiful." For some reason, Lonewolf seemed almost in thrall by the alien flower. He felt...almost as though he had a kindred spirit with the rose. Like it was symbolic of himself and his personality. Pana blushed a bit, "Heehee...thanks. I love them too."

She stopped fiddling with the rose for a moment as she looked up at Lone, "So...what are you going to do today?" She asked playfully. Lonewolf shrugged, "Not sure yet. I was just going to walk around the guild and see what the others were up to." Pana seemed excited by this, "Oh! Can I accompany you?!" Lonewolf smiled slightly and nodded, "Of course." Pana jumped up in glee, the cleavage from her tied blouse bouncing up slightly with her as she clapped her hands. Pana seemed to be acting strangely lately, almost childlike, like...

Like a puppy in love.. Thought Lonewolf somberly. He kind of felt sorry for the girl...because the feeling wasn't mutual. As attractive as Pana was, Lonewolf had always been a gentleman and would never take advantage of the poor girl's feelings just for a "one night stand". Though her age far exceeded his own by a couple hundred years, the girl had definitely been around, but Lone couldn't bring himself to open his heart up to another woman just yet. His heart still belonged to his deceased lover. Perhaps he would get over Stephanie one of these days...but not today.

He made his way pass her and shut the door to his office, locking the door behind him. He smiled at Pana, who returned his smile with the utmost enthusiasm. She was a good friend...Lone hoped that he wasn't leading her on or anything with his politeness, but judging by the look on her face...apparently he was. He would have to tell her how he truly felt about the situation eventually. He made his way down the steps to the guild lounge, Pana following him from behind.

As they descended down the stairs, Lonewolf marveled at the painting just above the fireplace, as he usually did. It was a beautiful painting of the guild lounge, drawn by the "drunken artist" himself, Juggalo Josh Jackson. The talented painter was in his usual spot...the bar. He drank swig after swig of his favorite whiskey with his usual vigor as Violet stood atop the bar, serving drinks to the guild members with the help of Neko-Meww who was now in her voluptious human form. She gripped the drink bottles with her cat-like paws as she set another drinking glass down by Violet, who in turn pushed the glass over to Clowde Brice. "Here's your drink, sir Clowde!" squeaked Violet as she smiled widely at him.

Clowde was still getting used to the unnaturally short stature of Violet as he nodded nervously, "Er...thanks." He picked up his drink and took a sip. "Seeee?...iph yoo huld ther gun this way....yoor shot will nevur miss da mark...hic!" Josh held his rifle at the ready as he seemed to be explaining marksmanship tips to Clowde, who wasn't the least bit interested. He sat there as he just looked into space, apparently in his own little world as usual.

"Master!!!" Neko pounced over the bar's side door as she tackled Lonewolf to the ground, hugging him tightly. "How did you sleep last night, master?" She cooed. "Er...fine, Neko. I slept fine." He stated, as he flipped the back of Neko's skirt over her bottom, which Josh and Clowde were now staring at, their heads tilted slightly to the side. "Stop staring, perverts!" Shouted Pana as she drew her long sword from the sheath by her left hip and pointed it in their direction. Clowde immediately obeyed the threat as he quickly turned away, but Josh just sat there, still staring at Neko's revealing skirt. Pana quickly flicked her wrist, cutting Josh's whiskey bottle in half with her sword. The new metal they had discovered was quite formidable when sharpened, giving the ability to slice cleanly through glass.

As Josh's drink got sliced in half and the rest of the whiskey poured out onto the floor, Josh didn't seem to notice as he was still staring at Neko's behind. He tried taking another swig from his broken bottle, but to no avail. He just set it down on the table and asked Violet for another serving of whiskey, completely oblivious to the fact that his drink had been sliced in half.

Lonewolf finally stood to his feet as he helped Neko up off the ground. "Perhaps you should wear something a little...less revealing, Neko." Said Lonewolf as he shook his head at the blue skirt that hiked too high up Neko's supple thighs. "What do you mean, master? This outfit was given to me by my creator." She seemed confused. Lonewolf smiled wryly, "Yeah...figures." Perverted old fart. Thought Lonewolf. "I'll see if I can find you a pair of slacks or something from my own wardrobe. I'm getting tired of all the...attention...you're getting from the guild's members." He said. Neko seemed to be excited by this, "I get to put on master Lonewolf's clothing?!" Her cat-like pupils dilating with excitement. Lonewolf just sighed and shook his head, "Just...go back to serving drinks please." Neko nodded happily as she hopped atop the bar's side door in a squatting position, again, revealing her undergarments, then jumped down back behind the bar. As she did this, she sang to herself, "I get to wear masterrrr's clothes...I get to wear masterrrr's clothes~!"

Pana couldn't help but giggle to that, as she smiled at Lonewolf coyly, "That certainly sounds like fun..." She hinted. Lonewolf's eyebrows furrowed at Pana as he smiled wryly at her, then just walked away, shaking his head. "Heehee, oh come on! I was just kidding!" Pana stuck her tongue out at Lonewolf, then jogged after him.


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In the guild's dojo, which was now about twice as big as it previously was and no longer surrounded by walls, now revealing the beautiful outdoors of the plains as the various dragoon knights trained vigorously with each other. Though there were no walls, Lonewolf, with the help of Hajimate's wizardry, fashioned a magical permanent barrier around the open spaces, still keeping anything from coming in or out as a normal wall would, but still able to enjoy the scenery of the outdoors. This was a precaution Lonewolf wanted as to avoid injuries from flying weapons or spells done to those outside the dojo's walls.

As Lonewolf surveyed the dragoons' various training regimens, he noticed four familiar figures within the crowd. Hajimate continued drilling a number of the guild's mages, slapping or punching some of them every so often when they fumbled a spell. He noticed Lonewolf walk in to the dojo and gave him an acknowledging nod, then continued with his drilling.

Alex and Kamikalo were locked into unarmed combat as they punched and kicked at each other, blocking/countering each others' moves every so often. The two of them seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves as they smiled warmly at each other as they traded blow after blow. Kamikalo would let off a yellow ki blast or two as Alex would counter the projectiles with explosive punches that would literally blow up her ki blasts upon impact. The two of them battled almost as if they were dancing with each other as they gracefully punched, palmed or kicked at each other.

In the far corner stood Beatrice Drago, as she took on four of the guild members at once. Tripping and bashing them angrily with her halberd, the four dragoons couldn't stand a chance against her onslaught. She had truly earned the nick name "Berserk Dragoon", thought Lonewolf.

"Isn't it beautiful?"

Completely ignoring the chaos going on within the dojo, Pana stood beside Lonewolf as she regarded the breathtaking scenery of the island in the distance. Lonewolf looked over at Pana, who was just looking to the side...the sunlight gently touching her cheek and surrounding her beautiful face and hair, almost like an angelic aura. Lonewolf was instantly reminded of Stephanie...back at the fountain of Brigadine. She had said the exact same words to describe the setting sun, shortly after they shared their first kiss. Reminded of the painful memory, Lonewolf just nodded and mumbled, "Mm." In response to Pana, then quickly turned and walked out of the dojo. Leaving the dumbfounded and almost disappointed Pana behind.

She looked just like her... Thought Lonewolf painfully, as tears began to slowly well up within his eyes. He fought them back, Not now. He thought as he forced himself to regain his composure. He was standing just outside the front door of the guild now, under the jacaranda tree as he leaned his left shoulder against the tree's trunk. He rubbed his silver locket with his right thumb slowly as he gazed off into the distance.

"What is wrong with you?" Asked Pana suddenly as she stepped out the front door. She seemed genuinely upset and angry with Lonewolf when she asked that. "Well?!" She continued. Lonewolf didn't bother turning around. He just remained gazing into the distance. "I'm sorry." He said finally. Pana's demeanor seemed to soften, "What's wrong, Lone..? Tell me...please. You're always so distant with me...you can talk to me about anything, you know that right?" She softly touched Lonewolf's right shoulder as she slowly moved in to press the side of her head gently against the top of Lonewolf's back. "You can trust me....I...I think I...lo.." Lonewolf quickly pushed off the tree's trunk and walked away from Pana's caress, interrupting what she was about to say, "Just leave me alone, please." He said as he walked off into the distance towards the Forest of Divinity, his head held down as he walked with his hands in his pockets.

Pana stood there watching as Lonewolf walked away from her. Her hands clasped over her left breast as she looked down...a tear rolled down her cheek.


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Lonewolf walked alone through the forest as he pondered silently to himself. What is wrong with you? Pana's words ringed into his mind. He didn't know how to answer that...he didn't know what the hell he was feeling at that moment. Stephanie... Her face flashed in his mind, followed by Pana's. What was going on? Was he growing feelings for Pana? He didn't know what he was feeling or how to react to these feelings. It has been so long since he opened his heart to another...was it fear? Fear of getting his heart broken again? "Why did you leave me...Stephanie...I.....I'm lost without you." He could never go through that kind of heartache again...it would be the death of him.

Lonewolf just sat on a stump within a small clearing in the forest as he opened up his locket and looked at Stephanie's picture within it. He began to cry silently as he slowly caressed the picture with his thumb. "...I need you..." he choked through tears as he said this. He clasped the locket shut as he held it in his fist, then hunched over as he began to weep harder, still holding the locket in his fist.

"You need who?" An unfamiliar womanly voice chimed in from behind him. Lonewolf suddenly leaped up to his feet as he summoned his magical energy blade from his right index and middle fingers. "W..who's there?!" He demanded, his voice still hoarse from the crying.

Suddenly, a fairly young female ninja dropped from one of the nearby trees in front of Lone. She had dark blue eyes and red hair that reached down to her chin as her right bangs hung over her right eye. She wore black, thin, oval glasses, a red tunic atop a long sleeve, white blouse with elbow high, black, fingerless cloth gloves. For pants, she just wore these strange looking tights where her right leg was white and her left leg was red. She wore normal, leather shoes that were tightened with a small rope at the ankles. If not for her ninja-like demeanor and double kunai blades strapped to her lower back, Lonewolf would've never guessed that she was a ninja due to her circus-like outfit.

"You are Lonewolf....are you not?" She asked, disregarding her last question completely as she examined Lone up and down. Lonewolf, still holding up his energy blade just regarded her with distrust. His pride a little hurt from the fact that this stranger had seen him cry. "Who wants to know?" He countered. The woman smiled earnestly, "My apologies if I alarmed you. My name is Erim Desilvara. I am a ninja who hails from the country of France. I've heard of your exploits on this island and have been...spying on your guild for the past few days. It's quite impressive, I must admit. I would like to offer you my services, if that is okay with you."

Lonewolf's eyebrows furrowed as he regarded Erim suspiciously. "France huh..? Never heard of a French ninja before." Erim smiled arrogantly, "Never heard of anyone named 'Lonewolf' before either." She countered with a somewhat mocking tone. Lonewolf seemed a bit embarrassed after that remark, but quickly regained his composure as he dissipated his energy blade. "Well, you ARE aware that peace has been restored to this island, correct?" He said as he lifted an eyebrow at Erim. Erim nodded, "Yes. I am aware of that. However, peace never lasts forever. You can use my stealth skills to spy on surrounding 'potential enemies'."

Lonewolf regarded the woman with disgust. "We have no enemies here, and I'd appreciate it if you wouldn't cause any problems by spying on my friends." Erim shrugged, obviously not really believing Lonewolf as she crossed her arms, "Okay then. So can I join your guild or not?" Lonewolf snorted, though he didn't like this arrogant woman's attitude...she could be useful in case of an enemy attack from the outside...and he has been feeling a sense of foreboding recently. "Fine." He said finally as he began walking away, "Just don't make me regret it." He added as he left the clearing.

Erim stood there as she stroked her chin contemplatively. "You're around here somewhere...sister. I can sense your presence." She said to herself. "I'll find you." She added as she dropped a smoke bomb on the floor, disappearing from the clearing in an instant.


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"Check this place out!" Majik and Derek stood before a rather large temple, located deep within the forest. They had been treasure hunting for a few hours now and finally came across something worth their efforts. "Hmmm, never seen this temple here before. I dunno, Majik....I have a bad feeling about this place." Stated Derek, a bit hesitant in comparison to his enthused counterpart. "Perhaps we should inform sir Lonewolf of this place before we try..." Before Derek could finish his sentence, Majik was already running inside the temple, "Come on, slowpoke! What the hell're ya waitin' for?!" Derek just sighed and shrugged, then followed his friend into the temple.

As they entered the large entrance, Majik used his right hand as a torch, lighting their path with his magically summoned flames. The light from Majik's flames licked the walls of the massive temple, revealing numerous Egyptian coffins aligned each side of the walls. "I bet this place is crawling with untouched artifacts..." Said Majik, his mouth literally salivating at the thought of treasure. Derek seemed a bit unnerved by the numerous coffins that surrounded them. He held his hand axe and shield at the ready as he slowly followed his friend, eying the coffins suspiciously.

"What's up man? You're slowing us down!" Cried Majik, "They're just a buncha corpses...not like they're going to come to life and attack us or anything." He laughed to himself at the thought of that.

Just as Majik said that however, the Egyptian coffins began to shake violently. "You and your big mouth!" Shouted Derek as he stood at the ready. Majik seemed genuinely afraid at this point, his eyes opened widely as he fearfully regarded the shaking coffins.

After a short while, the coffins ceased their violent shaking, bringing silence to the dark temple. Majik suddenly burst out laughing, "HAHAHA!! It was just a tremor man! Hahahaha! You shoulda seen the look on your face!" Majik continued laughing aloud as Derek just eyed Majik sardonically. They continued their search for treasure.

After a short while of searching, Majik and Derek finally arrived in a wide open room. Within the middle of the room was a pedestal and atop that pedestal was a glowing, shiny, large, bright green jewel. Majik's eyes slowly began to widen to unnatural sizes as he opened his mouth in a wide smile. "YEEEEEEEAAAAAAHHHHHH!!!!!!! ALRIGHT!!!!" He jumped up and down in glee as he sprinted towards the jewel.

Derek looked around the room suspiciously, "Something doesn't seem right...wait..!" Derek called out in vain behind Majik who was already running at full speed towards the pedestal. "COME TO PAPA!!!" Cried out Majik as he leaped up above the pedestal to tackle the jewel...

However, as Majik clasped his hands around the jewel in mid-air, he immediately noticed something was wrong....he had literally jumped right through the jewel...and was headed towards the ground on the opposite side, face first. As Majik face planted on the opposite side of the pedestal, Derek readied his axe and shield. "It's an apparition of a jewel! Be on guard!"

Just then, numerous skeletons and zombies began clawing their way through the stone floor of the temple, surrounding them and blocking off their exits. "Holy s**t!" Cried out Majik as he pushed himself off the floor. Derek and Majik slowly backed into each other, connecting themselves back to back as the undead swarm of monsters closed in on them. As they did so, Majik attempted to vainly swipe his hand across the jewel, attempting to grab it. "If it didn't work the first time, what makes you think you'll be able to get it a second time?" Asked Derek sardonically as he eyed the nearing undead monsters.

"Shut up!" Said Majik as he continued to try and grab the ghostly jewel. "There are much more pressing matters to attend to." Stated Derek through grit teeth. He was beginning to lose patience with his treasure-hungry friend. The skeletons and zombies grew closer and closer to the pair, "Well...it was nice knowing you, Majik." Stated Derek as he readied himself to fight his last battle.

"You are not welcome here." Boomed a deep, human voice from seemingly out of nowhere. "Get out." Just then, the undead monsters formed a path, leading to an exit for the two treasure hunters to pass. "Yes, sir!" Said Derek as he saluted the ceiling. He grabbed Majik by his black scarf, choking him slightly as he pull him away from the jewel. "Lets get the hell out of here." Said Derek as he dragged Majik alongside him. "But....but the TREASURE!!!" Cried Majik as he reached out, watching as the jewel slowly grew further and further from his grasp.

Finally exiting the temple, more and more undead minions began unearthing themselves from the ground as they just glowered at Derek and Majik menacingly. "We must inform sir Lonewolf of this..." Stated Derek, still dragging Majik, who was now just laying on his back as Derek pulled him along by his scarf. He seemed almost in tears, "S...so...close....so close..." he repeated as they left the clearing of undead monsters.

As the pair of treasure hunters finally left the clearing, a large, broad shouldered, armor clad figure stood in the darkness of the temple's entrance. His eyes glowed a menacing red as he watched the two men leave the temple he had magically erected just a few days prior. "Our time is nigh, my children." Said the man. He began chuckling to himself malevolently, then turned to walk back inside the temple, his long black flowing cape swirling through the air as he turned.

Chapter 39: The End?


The dragoons rode into the forest clearing where the mysterious temple was located. Their venture into the forest was surprisingly quiet and peaceful without any sign of undead monsters. When they reached the temple, Lonewolf, Hajimate and Clowde hopped off their mounts and strapped their reigns to a couple of nearby trees. Lonewolf helped Pana off his horse after strapping the reigns around the tree. She had been very quiet the entire trip, though Lonewolf knew how badly she must want to speak to him about their..."relationship". She just gave Lonewolf an acknowledging nod as she took his hand and stepped off the white steed accompanied with a faint smile in Lone's direction. As she dismounted Lone's horse, Erim hopped off Clowde's horse on her own, as did Majik off of Hajimate's black horse.

"So this is where you guys got attacked by undead monsters..?" Asked Hajimate as he looked around skeptically, "The place looks deserted to me...you sure you guys just weren't hallucinating? I know of a few illusion spells that mess with your mind like that..." Majik spat to the side as he looked up at the temple, "Well if there aren't any undead around, then that means the treasure is unguarded. So lets get to looting!" He unhinged his great sword from his back as he began up the steps.

"Wait." Majik stopped to look over at Erim who seemed to be a bit unnerved by the situation, "It may be a trap." She warned. "Wouldn't they have sprung it by now?" Asked Clowde who seemed to be just as skeptical as the demonic prince. "Yeah! What he said!" Snorted Majik. "They may be waiting for us to enter the temple first." Added Lonewolf as he stepped into the group. "Lure us in like a couple of fish into a net...in there, we'd be stuck fighting within close quarters, making it easier for them to surround and overwhelm us." He continued.

"Exactly." Agreed Erim as she nodded firmly. "Hmph!" Scoffed Hajimate, "Who gives a s**t? They're just a buncha fleshy, mindless corpses anyway. Not like they'd be much of a threat. I say we go in 'guns blazin' and be done with this already." He cracked his knuckles and smirked arrogantly as he said this. Majik nodded in agreement, "Yeah! We can kick their asses, no problem." He smiled broadly as he propped his giant blade atop his shoulder. Clowde unsheathed his golden hilt katana as he nodded at Lonewolf, "I agree." He said simply.

Erim just smiled wryly as she shook her head and crossed her lithe arms, "Fools." She spat. Lonewolf looked over at Erim, then back at the eager men. He pulled Violet out from his pocket and sat her up atop his right shoulder. "What information do you have on this temple, Violet?" He asked. Violet examined the temple closely as an audible "whirring" sound could be heard coming from her tiny cranium. "This one has no information on this temple, master. It must be the first of its kind."

Lonewolf's eyebrows furrowed, "Just as I feared..." He thought for a moment, then looked up at the dragoons, "Search the vicinity first." He ordered, "Look for any signs of undead activity in the area...bones, pieces of flesh or cloth, whatever you can find." Majik moaned audibly, "Awwwww! That's so BORING!" Lonewolf flashed Majik an angry glance, "Shut up and start looking around." Majik sighed heavily as he hung his great sword on the provided semi-sheath on his back and began to look around the temple. Clowde followed Lone's orders without any hesitation and began searching the vicinity as he sheathed his katana.

Everyone began their search except Hajimate, "So what's with you all of a sudden?" Asked Hajimate, his arms crossed as he examined Lonewolf suspiciously. "What do you mean?" Asked Lonewolf, genuinely confused by Haj's sudden question. "You've been actin' weird lately...do you know something about all this that we don't?" Lonewolf shrugged, "I already briefed you on what was going on before we got here. All I know is that these undead monsters ambushed Majik and Derek in this temple and that there's a possibility that a necromancer may be pulling the strings."

Hajimate couldn't help but curl his upper lip at the mention of the word "Necromancer". He had dealt with their kind before in his lifetime, and it was definitely NOT a pleasant experience. He looked down, then back at Lonewolf, "I know....but something doesn't seem right." Lonewolf tilted his head, not sure what Hajimate was getting at, "You seem unnerved by all of this....it's not like you, Lone. I always figured you for the brave type...but now it seems like somethin's got you spooked." Lonewolf lowered his head as he sighed softly, "I've just been having...disturbing dreams lately." He answered truthfully.

"What of?" Asked Hajimate, his curiosity now piqued. Lonewolf shook his head, "They're just dreams...of people from my past. It's nothing really." Hajimate cocked an eyebrow, "It can't be 'nothing' when it's obviously bothering you THIS much." Lonewolf just glared at Hajimate at this point, "Look, I don't like talking about it, alright?!" Hajimate raised his hands in a defensive gesture, "Hey easy...I was just curious is all." He punched Lonewolf on the shoulder playfully, though Lonewolf couldn't help but wince at the slight pain from the "playful" gesture, "Just forget it, man. Don't let that s**t mess with your head." Lonewolf began rubbing his shoulder, "Yeah...yeah I guess you're right." He agreed.


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A few hours passed and the dragoons found nothing outside of the temple other then a few broken twigs and dried up leaves. The sun was beginning to set in the distance as night slowly enshrouded the sky in darkness. "So we gonna investigate the temple or what?" Asked Majik, obviously eager to get his hands on the untouched loot within the mysterious temple. "No." Stated Lonewolf as he examined the setting sun. "We'll set camp for the night. We'll investigate the temple first thing in the morning." Majik frowned at this, but did as Lonewolf said this time.

The dragoons began setting up their individual sleeping bags as Majik easily made a campfire by stacking a few branches and bursting them into flames with a small fireball. "You've gotten better at that." Complimented Lonewolf. Majik smiled proudly at that compliment, "Thanks." He said. They all sat down by the fire and began eating from their rations. Bread, cheese, fruit, nuts, with a bottle of whine to wash it all down. "I'll take first watch." Volunteered Lonewolf. The others just nodded and slid into their sleeping bags.


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The night was tranquil and silent as all, but one dragoon slept peacefully. Lonewolf looked up into the sky...dark clouds were beginning to reveal themselves in the night sky. "Looks like rain..." Said Lonewolf to himself. "Mmm-hmm! Yes, this one senses a great deal of precipitation in the atmosphere! Possible thunder storms as well!" Violet was all too happy to divulge this information to her master. Lonewolf just smiled warmly as he looked down at his right vest pocket, "Thank you for that, Violet." Violet bowed her little head respectfully, "You're welcome, master!" She squeaked respectfully as she smiled innocently.

Lonewolf just laid there atop his sleeping bag, looking up into the sky. He couldn't help thinking of better times, when he was living with his mentor, Locke and in love with Stephanie. Things were so much simpler back then...he thought silently to himself. He wondered to himself...what if he and Stephanie had gotten married and had a family of their own by now? Max..that's what he would've named his son. If he had a girl, he would've named her "Valerie". Either outcome would've been satisfying.

I would've been a great father...he thought with a proud smile, which soon faded. It would seem that fate would have it otherwise. He wasn't quite sure if he was satisfied with the way things worked out. Sure, he may have gotten his name written in the history books and basically made himself into a legend, which was the main reason why he created the guild in the first place...

...but am I truly happy? He was unsure on how to answer that question.

Just then, Pana sat up from her sleeping bag and looked over at Lonewolf. Apparently she had been awake the entire time. "Um...Lone?" She asked innocently. Lonewolf didn't sit up from his laying position, "Yes, Pana?" He returned patiently. "Um..." She began, "Can we talk?" Lonewolf sighed softly, then turned his body to the side to regard Pana, "What's on your mind?" He asked, though he already knew what was on her mind.

"Us." She stated softly. "What do you mean?" Humored Lonewolf. Pana paused for a moment, "....I...I was just wondering..." Lonewolf nodded, "Yes?" Pana hesitated for another moment, "...do....do you care about me, Lonewolf?" Lonewolf nodded, "Of course I care about you, Pana. You're one of my best friends here on this island. You know that." Pana shook her head, "No..." She looked down, "Do you...CARE for me..? As in...a....a lover?" She looked back up into Lonewolf's gray eyes as she said that last part.

It was Lonewolf's turn to look away, "Pana..." He began with a soft sigh. This was it...Lonewolf needed to let her know how he truly felt about their situation, though even HE had no idea how he truly felt. He just looked up at her now watery, blue eyes. She was beautiful, there was no denying that. The flickering light of the dying campfire accentuated her breath taking features. He slowly opened his mouth to speak...

Just then, a fleshy arm extended from the earth and grabbed onto Pana's sleeping back around her legs. She squealed in alarm at the unexpected grope as more and more fleshy/bony monsters began unearthing themselves around the dragoons' camp site. "Undead!" Shouted Lonewolf as he stood up and unsheathed his rapier just in time to slice off an oncoming zombie's head off.

The dragoons all seemed to awaken at once, quickly grabbing their weapons and engaging the intruders. Majik burst two zombies up in flames as he picked up his great sword off the floor and began lopping off limbs left and right. Clowde unsheathed his katana at an alarming speed, slicing an oncoming zombie horizontally right through the torso. Erim quickly withdrew a couple of shurikens from one of the pouches on her belt and tossed them at three oncoming zombies, connecting all three shurikens with each zombie's forehead. She then quickly withdrew her double kunai blades from the sheaths crossed just above her buttocks and began slicing away.

"Charir Kothar!" Roared Hajimate as his body increased three times its original size, ripping off his gray tank top completely as he transformed into his pure blooded demonic form. He grabbed one of the oncoming zombies, ripped it in half, then began beating at the other undead monsters with the halved zombie's remains.

Pana quickly grabbed her long sword and chopped off the hand that was grabbing at her legs, but another zombie was already within arms length of her as it attempted to lunge at her. She cringed helplessly as the zombie pounced at her. Just then a gun shot could be heard and the zombie's limp body fell atop Pana's lap, a large gaping hole on its forehead. She looked to the side and saw Lonewolf holding up his smoking flintlock pistol. She smiled at him warmly, then stood to her feet as she kicked out of her sleeping bag.

"There's too many of them!" Shouted Lonewolf as he blasted two more zombies away with a large purple blast. "We got this!" Shouted back Hajimate's alarmingly deep, inhuman voice as he smashed two zombies' heads together, crushing their skulls completely. "No sweat!" Snorted Majik as he enshrouded his great sword in flames and began slicing/burning the zombies with wide, reckless arcs.

"I believe he may be right..." Added Erim as she flipped over one of the zombies, slicing its legs off with her dagger-like oriental blades, then following up with a scissors-like slash, lopping the monster's head off. She pointed in the distance, "Look..!" She choked as she engaged three more zombies in combat.

More and more zombies unearthed themselves from the ground, surrounding the dragoons completely. There seemed to be hundreds...no...thousands of them as the earth spat them out from the ground endlessly. "Hmph!" Scoffed Hajimate, "Looks like I'll just have to bring out the 'big guns'!" He held out his demonic claws, pointing his open palms upward as two black orbs hovered above them, "Ixen Svent!!" He roared. Suddenly, hundreds of flaming arrows began firing from the two black orbs above his open palms. The arrows connected with a large number of zombies, incinerating them on impact.

Pana mimics Hajimate as she also summons two dark spheres from her palms, however, she launched both orbs into the air, "Fallen Wings!" She cried. At her command, the two orbs split into several small black spheres, which suddenly zoomed towards hundreds of zombies. The spheres quickly reverted into blade-like shapes as they swarmed the zombies like locusts, wreaking untold havoc with anything that came into contact with them.

After dealing with the three zombies that attacked her, Erim sheathed her double kunai and began forming various strange hand gestures with both of her hands, eventually ending with both hands extended in front of her, her index and middle fingers, along with her thumbs extended, "Renzokou!" She cried. Just then a dark red ball of energy emerged just before her extended hands and began shooting dark red energy projectiles at the zombies, exploding them on impact.

Adding to the chaos, Lonewolf sheathed his rapier, holstered his flintlock pistol then began firing devastating purple energy blasts from both hands respectively, blowing away three to four zombies at once with each blast. Clowde just watched in awe at the amazing display of magic, his sword slowly lowering as the zombies were literally getting "run over" by the devastating spells. "Wow.." He whispered to himself. He couldn't help being impressed by the dazzling display.

After a few moments, the clearing grew quiet. The dragoons ceased their onslaught as they waited patiently.......

Suddenly, more and more undead minions began uprooting from the the ground. Even from the temple's entrance, more and more zombies spilled out with far more gusto then before. Numbering in the thousands in just a few seconds. "They....don't stop coming..!" Even Hajimate was now beginning to grow worried at the the overwhelming numbers of the undead army. It was quite apparent that the dragoons were nearing exhaustion at this point. However, they stuck it out and continued their relentless onslaught of devastating spells.

As they did so, Lonewolf noticed a shadowy figure from within the trees that seemed to be watching their battle from a distance. That must be the necromancer! Lonewolf bolted in the mysterious figure's direction. "Lone!" Shouted Pana as she saw Lonewolf run from the clearing, "Wait..!" She ran after him.

Lonewolf arrived in the area where he thought he saw someone standing and quickly began looking around....he noticed a strange, magical portal a few feet away from him. "There!" He leaped into the portal without a moment's hesitation, unknowing that Pana was behind him. She quickly jumped into the portal as well just before it closed up.


* * * * *


Swirling darkness filled Lonewolf's vision. He thought he heard someone laughing in the distance, he willed himself to follow the strangely familiar cackle. As his vision began to take shape...he immediately recognized his surroundings. He was atop a very familiar cliff...a cliff he had seen many times in his dreams. He walked over to the edge and looked down...

Cliffside village was just below him. He was atop one of the cliffs that over looked the small village. Somehow he had been warped to the opposite side of the island. A storm began to kick up in the sky as the relentless rain fell from the sky followed by bursts of lightning and thunder in the distance. "I've been here before..." Said Lonewolf as water dripped from his bangs. Was he dreaming again? Why was he feeling a sudden sinking feeling within his heart?

"Nice of you to join me." Lonewolf recognized that voice....could it be? No. It couldn't. Why would it be? What the hell was he doing here?? Lonewolf slowly turned to regard the familiar, tall, broad shouldered, golden armor clad man. A shiver went down his spine as lightning flashed behind the shadowy figure, revealing that familiar long, immaculate, purple hair. Those eyes....the same as hers.

"Mortamus..?" Lonewolf couldn't believe what he was seeing.

"Been awhile...'Mr.Hero'." Mortamus smiled malevolently. "Nice scar you have there." he added with a mocking tone. Lonewolf ignored Mortamus' mockery as he examined his ex-lover's brother more thoroughly. A familiar green gem pulsed with power in the middle of his golden breastplate. He had seen a gem like that before...it was the same type of gem that was on the ring of Indoctrination. Was...was Mortamus the necromancer he was after? But how?

"Mortamus..." began Lonewolf, "What...what's going on here? What are you doing here? Please don't tell me you're the one controlling those undead fiends..?" Mortamus chuckled to himself, eventually rising into a guffawing laughter, "HUHWAHAHA! Yes, Lonewolf. I am the one responsible for infesting your precious little island with my undead minions." Lonewolf looked down, he couldn't believe what he was hearing, "But....why?" Mortamus smirked arrogantly, "I've come here to claim this island as my own. I've actually been taking over various major cities throughout the main continents for quite sometime now. I'm surprised you haven't received any word of it, you...being the 'legendary hero of Croatia' and all." Lonewolf winced at Mortamus' mocking tone from that last sentence.

Lonewolf's eyes widened, "But why?! Why are you doing this?! This isn't like you, Mortamus!" Mortamus grimaced after Lonewolf said that, "What the hell do you know of me, BOY?! After I lost my precious Lara..." A saddened look pervaded his face, "...I desperately searched for a way to restore her back to life...to bring her back to me." Lonewolf looked at Mortamus with sincere pity in his eyes, he knew what Mortamus was about to say, "Oh Mortamus...necromancy wasn't the answer..."

Mortamus flashed a malevolent glance at Lonewolf, "Fool! Of course it was! Even though I wasn't able to restore my beloved Lara back as nothing more then a mere mindless ghoul, I found my new calling within this untold power!" Lonewolf lifted an eyebrow, "And that is?" Mortamus spread his arms widely as he looked up into the thunderous sky, "World domination!!! I want it all!!! This world rightfully belongs to me!!! I...AM....GOD!!!!"

Lonewolf grew genuinely terrified at what he was seeing, "Y..you're insane.." Mortamus just looked at Lonewolf with amusement, "Am I now? To be quite honest, I feel very much liberated now more then ever before." Lonewolf shook his head angrily, "What of your son, Rakku?! Is this the real reason why Stephanie committed suicide?! Because of your ******** insanity?!?!" Lonewolf was practically foaming at the mouth from rage as he said this.

Mortamus laughed loud and hard for what seemed like an eternity. Lonewolf couldn't help but grit his teeth in rage as Mortamus laughed at him. "You pathetic naive child!" He scoffed, "That worthless b***h of a sibling always loved you! I hated it. I'll admit. She never deserved a pathetic BUM like you!!! I tried so hard to get her to change her mind...but she wouldn't listen." His demeanor grew slightly saddened, "Stephanie...why didn't you listen to me baby..." He looked back at Lonewolf with a serious glance, "So I used one of my mind control spells and had her break up with you. Of course...she wasn't too happy about this and attempted to strip me of my powers." He shrugged, "So? I taught her a 'lesson' in respect." Lonewolf's eyes widened, nearly on the verge of tears, "You..." He began. Mortamus laughed harder, his maniacal laughter coinciding with the boisterous thunder of the storm, "Yes you fool!!! I killed your precious Stephanie!!!!"

"...................."

Lonewolf was completely stunned by this new found knowledge. His hands curled up into fists as his entire body convulsed and shook with untold rage. Tears streamed down his cheeks, mingling with the rain drops that flowed endlessly down his cheeks. He mumbled a few unintelligible words amongst the storm.

Mortamus ceased his laughing and mockingly held his hand up by his ear as he leaned forward, "What was that, boy? I didn't quite catch that." He mocked. Lonewolf just stood there, his head down as his wet bangs covered his entire face, "I said..." He began with a shaking voice.

"....you....will.....PAY!!!!!!" As he said this, Lonewolf tackled Mortamus down to the ground and furiously began punching at his face. However, Lonewolf's angry blows seemed to not harm Mortamus at all, judging by the way Mortamus just laughed as Lonewolf furiously threw punch after punch directly in his face. Lonewolf's eyes widened in disbelief at the fact that his punches weren't phasing Mortamus in the very least. He reared his right fist back for one final, strong blow then let it loose with extreme velocity aimed directly for Mortamus' laughing face.

Just before his punch connected, however, Mortamus quickly moved his head to the side, causing Lonewolf to miss and punch the hard, rocky ground. An audible bone-breaking sound could be heard as Lonewolf shattered every bone within his right fist. He cried out in agony as he reflexively grabbed his right fist with his left hand. Mortamus took this opportunity to roll to the side, out from under Lonewolf, stood to his feet and quickly raised his open hand, summoning three skeletal minions in the process.

Without hesitation and now letting his rage fill his adrenaline completely, Lonewolf unsheathed his rapier with his left hand and sliced the three skeletons to pieces with ease, after doing so he sheathed his rapier, grabbed his flintlock pistol from it's holster and fired a shot aimed directly for Mortamus' head.

What happened next, cause Lonewolf to drop his pistol in complete disbelief. Mortamus didn't bother to try and dodge the shot...instead he stood there and took it. The bullet fell from from the slight dent in Mortamus' forehead...the gun shot had absolutely NO effect on Mortamus. "I...impossible..." Stuttered Lonewolf as fear began to take its toll on the young hero. Mortamus guffawed in laughter, "HAHAHAHAHA!!!! PATHETIC!!! Is that REALLY all you have to offer 'Mr. Hero'?"

Lonewolf's fearful demeanor slowly shifted back into rage. He unsheathed his rapier again and rushed in with a downward slash, but was instantly blocked by...Mortamus' index finger?! Lonewolf gritted his teeth and went for a horizontal slash aimed for Mortamus' mid section, but was easily blocked again, this time by Mortamus' forearm. Impatiently, Lonewolf began swinging harder and faster as he continuously tried to chop at Mortamus, but every swing of the weapon was easily blocked by Mortamus' arms and hands. Lonewolf finally stopped his onslaught as he panted heavily and regarded Mortamus with disbelief, "H...how...how is this possible..?"

Mortamus just chuckled malevolently, "Oh Lonewolf, how you disappoint me..." he sighed heavily, "And here I thought you would actually put up SOME sort of challenge. It seems that I was gravely mistaken." Lonewolf just stood there hunched over, still panting heavily, "You bas.." interrupting his curse was a swift boot under Lonewolf's jaw, causing him to flail like a rag doll through the air. His rapier flying from his grasp and falling off the cliff. Lonewolf lay on his stomach as he helplessly watched his blade fall out of reach.

As Lonewolf watched his blade fall for what seemed to be hundreds of feet, he didn't notice the large metallic boot stomp on his back, pinning him to the ground. "AAAUUGHH!!" He cried out in pain as he felt his spine being slowly bent in half. "Now..." began Mortamus, "I'll squash you like the pathetic bug that you are!" His boot slowly pushed harder. Lonewolf could feel a couple of his ribs snap as Mortamus literally crushed him to death.

Lonewolf's mind raced for any kind of spell he could possibly use to get him out of this situation. Without hesitation, Lonewolf summoned a lightning spell, using all of his power to enshroud his entire body with electricity, conducting with the rain and causing both Lonewolf and Mortamus to suffer a deathly shock that seemed to last for hours.

Mortamus cried out in agony as his entire body convulsed from the electrifying spell, he finally flew off of Lonewolf and fell on his back. After a few moments, Mortamus twitched and pushed himself to his feet, he sighed heavily as he did so, "Impressive....however, I can see you put everything you had into that last spell." He grinned malevolently as he kicked Lonewolf on the side, causing him to flip over onto his back. Mortamus bent over and grabbed Lonewolf by the throat, then held him up over the cliff's edge. Thunder and lightning clashed as Mortamus held Lonewolf's lifeless body over the cliff.

So...thought the defeated Lonewolf, Your dream came true....after all......Stephanie....Lonewolf could barely open his eyes as he looked down at the man who was about to end his life. "Farewell, 'Mr. Hero'." Stated Mortamus with an evil grin. Lonewolf clutched feebly with his left hand at Mortamus' head, who just laughed mockingly in turn, "You truly are pathetic. I almost feel bad for killing someone as weak as you." Lonewolf grabbed onto the right side of Mortamus' head as he said ******** you."

Spat Lonewolf as he used his left thumb to gouge out Mortamus' right eye. Using his thumbnail to literally tear Mortamus' eye from its socket and crushing it within his left fist. Mortamus let out an inhuman roar as pain tore at his entire being. He finally let go of Lonewolf, dropping him off the cliff.

Falling.....falling....falling.....Lonewolf knew he was going to die. No one could survive a fall like that. He closed his eyes as he fell with the rain...a single thought crossed his mind as he plummeted to his inevitable death.

Forgive me.....Pana.

Chapter 41: "Water's Edge"


"Say what now? Lonewolf was fighting a 'scary man' named Mortamus up on the cliff here, you say?" Bogey was sitting on his rocking chair, now wearing a robe over his undergarments as he patiently smoked his pipe and listened to the little robotic girl he created speak her side of the story.

"Mmm-hmm!" She nodded enthusiastically as she continued to tell Bogey about the fight between Lonewolf and Mortamus, mimicking her master's movements in battle with a toothpick as she pretended the pick was her master's sword. "And he blocked every attack with his finger!" She chimed as she held up her tiny index finger, then proceeded to mimic Mortamus, pretending to block every attack Lonewolf did with his blade, complete with sound effects of what was supposed to be Lone's sword clashing with Mortamus' finger.

Despite Violet's very cute display of the battle, Bogey's facial expression remained grim as he puffed away at his pipe, listening to every word intently. "Mortamus..." He murmured to himself. "Now why does that name sound familiar..?" A sudden knock at Bogey's door interrupted his muse. Bogey sat up from his chair and waddled over to his door, "Now who could that be at this hour?" He grumbled as he turned the knob and pulled his front door open.

There stood Yolanda Villa, wearing a green hooded cloak to shield her from the rain. "Bogey." She began, "Are you alright? I heard a loud crashing sound, followed by the loud screams of a man coming from your house. I came over here to see if you were alright..." She glanced up at Bogey''s broken sun roof as she said this.

Bogey sighed raggedly, "Yes, I'm fine Yolanda...but I can't say the same for young Lonewolf there and his lady friend." He said as he pointed with his pipe over at Lone's lifeless body that was lying down on one of Bogey's couches. At the mention of Lonewolf's name, Yolanda rushed inside of Bogey's house to kneel by Lonewolf's side, "What happened?!" She gasped, genuinely upset. "He's not...?" She trailed off, dreading to finish the question.

Bogey shook his head as he shut the door, "No no, he's still breathing and has a heart beat. It's the blood on his clothing that is baffling me the most...he has no wounds on his body whatsoever." He looked over at the other lifeless body in his living room, "I suspect that one, over there, cast some sort of 'revival' spell or something. Which would explain her coma-like state." he shook his head softly as if to pity Pana, "Poor girl...she must've used everything in her power to save our young hero over there."

Yolanda seemed completely lost by what was going on, "But...what of the peace treaty? Who would've done something like this to him? Surely the Kenise clan hasn't gone back on their word..?" Bogey shook his head then pointed at Violet, who was still imitating the battle, "The little one says that a man named 'Mortamus' did this to Lonewolf." Yolanda's eyebrows contracted, "Mortamus..? Is that one of the vampires from the kingdom of Nohdaria?" Bogey sat back atop his rocking chair, relighting his pipe in the process as he shook his head. "I don't believe so. Though the name does ring a bell..."

Yolanda looked back down at Lonewolf's limp body. She pushed away his wet bangs from his face then pulled out a piece of cloth from one of her pockets and began to wipe away at the moist blood on his body. "Lone...who could have beaten you like this?" Ever since Lonewolf and the dragoons ended the reign of Kratos' army she idolized him and truly believed that he was invincible. To see him in such a defeated state now was quite shocking and traumatizing for her. "Will he awaken?" She asked Bogey, obviously worried about her hero's well being.

"He shows no signs of head trauma...I think he's just sleeping for now. He should wake up eventually." Assured Bogey as he puffed away at his pipe, "Now that one, on the other hand..." he began as he regarded Pana, "Her breathing is very irregular, her heart rate is slow and her skin is cold to the touch. The young lady is lucky to be alive, though I don't think she'll be waking up anytime soon." He grumbled.

Yolanda walked over to Pana and looked upon her beauty. She secretly wondered to herself if Lonewolf and Pana were...a couple. Her heart slumped slightly at the thought of that. She couldn't help but feel a small tinge of jealousy towards Pana. Yolanda had always had feelings for Lonewolf ever since he made her wish come true, but those feelings were more out of respect and awe towards the young hero. She silently reminded herself of this as she examined Pana's body. "She needs a bed to rest on, not a couch. You should keep a bowl of hot water underneath her sheets as well to keep her warm. Come." She motioned for Bogey to help her carry Pana off the couch.

"This one will prepare the hot water!" Chimed Violet with her usual cheery and helpful attitude. She hopped off the small table she was standing on and ran towards the kitchen to grab a pot. After grabbing a pot that was about twice her size, she placed it over her body and ran with it towards the door, which Bogey opened for her. She then placed the pot on the tattered porch just underneath the hole from the sun roof and let the rain pour water into the pot as she plopped down beside it and bobbed her head from side to side, humming a cheery tune to herself.

Bogey walked over to where Yolanda was and grabbed Pana's ankles, lifting at Yolanda's command. Together, they carried her to Bogey's bed and placed her atop it. An audible cracking sound could be heard from within the bed. "Hmm...this may be too small to support her." Mused Yolanda as she examined Pana's legs that completely reached over the bottom side of the bed. Bogey nodded as he examined Pana as well, "Hmm...perhaps I can invent a bed extension to support her legs!" He chimed enthusiastically.

"Or..." Added Yolanda, "We could just take her to my bed at the restaurant." Bogey nodded in agreement, "That'll work too." He mumbled. Together, they lifted her from the bed and started for the front door, stepping over the perplexed Violet, "Where are you taking Miss Pana?" She squeaked genuinely curious. "Yolanda's Restaurant." Grunted Bogey as he struggled to keep his grip on Pana's ankles. "Did this one's creator and Miss Yolanda still need the hot water?" She squeaked, louder this time as they grew further apart, "No." Said Yolanda, "I'll handle it at my restaurant." Violet seemed genuinely disappointed by this as she looked down, "Oh..." She whimpered.

"Just take care of your master, for now, while we're gone." Added Bogey. Violet smiled brightly and nodded enthusiastically, "Yes! This one shall look after master Lonewolf!" She chimed as she ran back inside, completely forgetting about the half-full pot of water and pushing the front door closed.


* * * * *


"Is that the last of them?" Hajimate and the others had been fighting undead zombies for the past while. He was still in his demonic form, his chest heaving restlessly as he obviously used up every ounce of his power in the fight. For some reason, the zombies just ceased their attack, almost as if someone called them off. It must have been the necromancer as Lonewolf mentioned earlier.

"I believe so." Stated Erim as she pushed her glasses back up the bridge of her delicate nose. She was drenched in sweat, her red bangs plastered to her forehead. "Sweet! Lets check out the temple!" Majik began up the temple steps which were now completely covered in zombie corpses. "Hold it." Grunted Hajimate, "Where is Lone?" He growled. "And Pana..." added Erim.

"I saw them run in that direction while you guys were blowing everything up." Stated Clowde with a hint of sarcasm as he pointed toward the southwest. Hajimate slowly reverted back into his human form, no longer wearing anything on his torso and clad only in his tattered black leather pants and what remained of his black leather boots. "Come on, lets check it out!" He gestured for the others to follow as he started in the provided direction.

As the dragoons followed, one dragoon began to slowly sneak up the zombie corpses towards the temple entrance. "Get your a** over here, Majik!" Shouted Hajimate. Majik cringed at Hajimate's booming voice...he knew he could get away with certain things while with Lonewolf, but with Hajimate it was a different story. Fearing Haj's wrath, Majik obediently followed the rest of the group into the brush.

They arrived in a small clearing with various broken twigs and familiar footsteps that seemed to lead to nowhere. "Did they take flight?" Mused Erim as she examined the footsteps closely. Hajimate's eyebrows furrowed, he grabbed a mysterious powder from one of his pouches and tossed it around the area where the footsteps disappeared. The powder seemed to stick in mid air, outlining an eerie circular shape. "They used a portal." He stated. Erim seemed contemplative as she examined the outline made by the powder. "What makes you so certain?" Asked Clowde.

Hajimate pointed at the magical powder that hovered in mid air, "This powder can sense the remnants of any type of magic. Judging by the large circular shape, I'd say they went through some sort of magical door of some kind...in other words, a portal." Clowde's brow lifted in response to the information, "Oh..." Majik walked over to the hovering powder and extended a hand through it, "How do we follow them?" He asked as he waved his hand through the powder.

"We can't." Stated Hajimate, a bit annoyed by the situation, "Wherever they are, we lost our chance to follow them a long time ago." Clowde scratched at the back of his head, "So what now?" He asked. "I say we search for them." Advised Erim. "Lets just head back to the guild for now. Who knows? Lonewolf and Pana might already be there waiting for us as we speak. Something stopped those zombies back there, they probably killed the necromancer already." Erim nodded understandably, "True." She agreed.

"What about the temple?!" Demanded Majik. "Forget about it, for now. Lets head back and regroup first." Ordered Hajimate. majik just grit his teeth at that, the whole reason why he bothered coming out here in the first place was to loot that temple of its treasure. He dreaded the thought of someone else getting into the temple first and claiming the treasure for their own. "Damnit..." he cursed under his breath.

"How we getting back? The horses are dead." Pointed out Clowde, he nodded in the direction of the three horse corpses. Apparently they got eaten alive during their little scuffle. Poor animals didn't stand a chance, being tied to the trees and all. "Looks like we're just gonna have to hoof it." Sighed Hajimate, "Gather your things and whatever remaining rations we have left. We leave as soon as possible." The dragoons obeyed the demon prince as they headed back to their camp site. As the others left the clearing, Hajimate just looked back at the hovering powder, "Wherever the hell you guys are...you better not die on me just yet, Lonewolf." He grinned devilishly, "I still haven't kicked your a** in a duel yet." He turned and headed back through the brush.


* * * * *


The following morning...

Deep within his dark castle, Mortamus sat atop his self proclaimed throne as he contemplated what his next move would be. "My main threat has already been taken care of..." He said to himself, slowly clutching at the blood soaked cloth over his right eye. "What do you think?" He asked, looking over at one of his skeletal minions. The skeleton guard just looked at him quizically, obviously not knowing how or being able to respond due to the fact it didn't have a tongue to speak with.

Annoyed by the stupid monster, Mortamus fired a green blast of energy from his palm, blowing it to bits. The bones from the minion flew in all directions, one of which landed by Mortamus' feet. He bent over from his throne to pick it up and tossed it over at his pet black dragon that was chained against the nearby wall. The dragon gnawed at the bone with utmost vigor, obviously starving from its master's constant neglect in feeding it.

Mortamus just leaned his cheek against his left fist in a bored fashion. "Hmm...perhaps I'll use the vampires on this island to help me rid of those damn demon clans." Mortamus absolutely despised demons, ever since he lost his wife to one in Brigadine. He had already disposed of the entire Granbull clan during his many conquests around the world. The only remaining clans that existed were the Kenise and Sulia clans. Ridding the world of their existence was definitely one of the first things to do on his "agenda", which was the main reason why he traveled to this putrid little island in the first place. It wasn't until recently that he learned of Lonewolf's heroism among the island.

Lonewolf....how he hated that arrogant name. "Some 'lone wolf' he turned out to be..." he scoffed to himself, remembering how easily he disposed of him in a one on one fight. It was quite ironic, he thought, that not only did he kill Lonewolf, but he killed his lover as well. The thought of Stephanie being with Lonewolf in the afterlife suddenly enraged him. "s**t! I gave them exactly what they wanted!!" He realized as he pounded his fist atop the arm of his throne, cracking it slightly from the force of the blow. He silently wished that instead of killing him he should have just left him alive and tortured him for fun. That thought satisfied him immensely. Though it was already too late, Lonewolf was already dead. He shrugged it off, Lonewolf would've proved to be nothing more then a nuisance anyway.

He clutched at his makeshift eye patch once again, "I got too cocky." He admitted angrily. Now he knew he had to live with this wound for the rest of his life, a wound caused by his mortal enemy, with his own bare hands no less. "********!!!" He shouted as he pushed off his throne. He walked over to the open stone window located behind his throne and looked through it as he placed his arms atop the bottom of it and leaned forward.

He could see the guild building in the distance through the rain. The tall black castle of Merilith to the east, protruding out from within the vast forest. Large mountains lay towards the north side of the island, the vampiric kingdom of Nohdaria laid just beyond them. "This will all be mine soon." He assured himself. A world devoid of all demons and Lonewolf...what a beautiful world it would be.

He smiled to himself, but it faded as quickly as it appeared, "If only Rakku and Stephanie were here to experience this glory with me." He said sadly. His pathetic weakling of a son ran away a long time ago after he killed Stephanie. He hasn't seen or heard from him since, though it didn't matter much to him anyway. Rakku was hopelessly suicidal after the death of his mother, even more so after the death of Stephanie. The boy most likely had offed himself by now.

As for Stephanie...his only sister who he loved so dearly..."Why did you have to be such a b***h?!" He growled. If only she were more obedient and did whatever he told her to do, she would still be living to this day, "But noooo...you had to try and be a 'hero' yourself." he still couldn't believe how she learned of the power of the Heart of Nekros to this day. Whatever the case, no one will ever be able to touch that cursed gem ever again.

"No one." He smiled malevolently, knowing full well where he had hidden the artifact that was his only weakness. "My temple of worship." He said aloud, referring to the temple where Lonewolf and the others were at. He had erected that temple for the sole purpose of forcing the inhabitants of Croatia to worship himself like the God that he is once he took over the island completely and everyone here was at his mercy. Even when those pesky "treasure hunters" from Lonewolf's guild attempted to retrieve the gem they couldn't touch it. "No one can...except me." He stated proudly. "Trapped within two dimensions forever. No one can possibly stop me!"

He began to laugh audibly, his spine chilling cackle even unnerving to the ferocious black dragon in the corner. "The fools of this island will worship the very gem that both, gave me my power and can strip me of it!" He boasted through his maniacal laughter.

Interrupting his self proclaiming glory, Iris entered his chambers with a young beautiful woman. "My lord, I bring you Nien Rima. The sea serpent mercenary you asked me for." She knelt down as she said this, followed by the reluctant mercenary, obviously nervous due to the horrifying laughter she had just witnessed. Mortamus' evil laughter stopped abruptly at the sound of Iris' voice. He slowly turned to regard the two women.

"What have I told you about disturbing me when I'm alone, Iris?" Iris seemed puzzled by the question, she kept her head low, afraid to look up at her lord. "My lord..?" Mortamus grimaced as he extended a hand in her general direction. Iris felt a swift grip at her throat even though nothing was really there. The invisible grip squeezed hard at her throat as it lifted her helplessly into the air. Gasping for air, Iris flailed about in the air as she couldn't breath at all.

Mortamus walked slowly towards her as she gurgled for air, his arm still extended. He just tilted his head as he examined her, an evil grin crossing his lips. "Never. Ever. Enter my chambers without knocking first." He demanded. With that, he released her from her spell, letting her fall to her knees on the floor coughing and gasping for breath. Nien Rima's bright green eyes widened in fear as she kept her head low during the entire display of power.

"Leave us." Commanded Mortamus as he waved his hand at Iris. Without hesitation, Iris did as he said, bowing, then running out of his chambers. As the large wooden doors to Mortamus' chambers closed behind Iris, Mortamus tilted his head, examining the young mercenary as he slowly paced around her kneeling body.

She was clad in grassy green and turquoise armor. Various metallic, fish-like fins protruded from her armor, especially atop her helmet which she held under her right armpit. In her left hand, she held a spear-like weapon called a glaive, as she propped it up like a staff. The armor was quite revealing, her silky smooth, pale thighs showing along the side of her leggings as well as her belly button and turquoise, metallic underwear. Her hair was a soft, pinkish color, tied back into pig tails that flowed down the back of her torso piece. She was trembling slightly, obviously afraid of Mortamus' menacing presence.

"Nien Rima..." mused Mortamus. He scoffed audibly, "What kind of ridiculous name is that anyway?" He mocked. Nien kept her head low as she tried very hard to suppress her rage, "It means 'Water's Edge'....my lord." She stated through a shaking voice.

"You are the same sea serpent mercenary that was responsible for single-handedly disposing of the entire Atlantean race, correct?" He asked, changing the subject. Nien gulped hard then nodded, "Yes.." she admitted with a shaken voice, "...my lord." She finished, her voice a bit more firm that time. "Good." Hissed Mortamus, "I have an assignment for you." He began.

"My lord..." interrupted Nien, her head still held low, afraid to look him in the eyes, "...I was brought her against my own will. No offense to you, but I have better things to do then to be someone's lackey." She admitted with an adamant tone. Mortamus seemed amused by her boldness, his eyes widening in rage at first, then subsiding as he began to chuckle menacingly. "Hehehe, my dear..." He knelt down and grabbed her chin, forcing her to look into his deep purple eyes, "I don't care." He stated menacingly.

"You will do as I say from now on, or else I will kill you slowly and painfully, then feed you to my dragon." Nien's fearful eyes slowly shifted to the side as she looked over at the large pet dragon who licked its lips enthusiastically as drool dripped from its large mouth. "He hasn't had sushi in quite some time, you see. He has always had a certain..acquired taste..for fish." Added Mortamus as he let go of Nien's chin. She just pulled away from his grasp as she looked at the ground again, completely petrified by the thought.

"Now...as I was saying..." He continued jovially, "You are to join the notorious guild on this island..." Nien's eyes shifted from side to side as she scanned her memory to know what he was talking about, "...Lonewolf's Dragoons..?" She asked suddenly. Mortamus grimaced at the mention of Lonewolf's name and abruptly slapped Nien across the face, "Don't you EVER mention that name in my presence!!!" He roared.

Nien just clutched feebly at her reddened cheek, dropping her helmet to the ground in the process. She just cowered in fear by the incredible blow to her soft face. "Forgive me, my lord!" She pleaded. "Hmph." Mortamus scoffed. "You are to join...that guild..." he continued, "and inform me of any suspicious activity. Your are to act as a regular member, get to know the members who would seem to pose the most threat against me, get close to them then kill them without alarming the other members of the guild. You are to be my full time spy in this endeavor. When I say you're finished, you will be free to go. Is that understood?!" Mortamus just glowered at Nien as he asked this.

Nien hesitantly nodded, "Y..yes...my lord." She said with a shaking voice. "Go." Ordered Mortamus. Without hesitation, Nien picked up her helmet and began storming out of his chambers, trembling with complete outrage. "Oh and Nien..." added Mortamus with a nonchalant tone in his voice. Nien stopped at the door to his chambers, but didn't bother looking back to face him, "Yes, my lord?" She asked through grit teeth.

"Don't even think about betraying me." He stated aloofly as he waved his hand in a spiral motion. Suddenly, a black, thorny tattoo began to form around the entire length of Nien's right arm. Shocked and horrified by this sudden spell, Nien couldn't help but shriek in surprise and outrage as she helplessly watched the tattoo wrap itself around her arm. "What the hell is this?!" She demanded, no longer stifling her rage.

"Insurance." Mortamus smiled malevolently. "If you ever try to betray me in any way...that spell will kill you...in the most excruciating way possible. No pain you could ever imagine will measure up to the pain that spell will cause you. So be a good girl, won't you?" He grinned widely, revealing his yellowing teeth.

Nien just stood there, completely shocked and petrified, she was completely speechless. "Have a nice day." Said Mortamus with a jovial tone in his voice. Nien tore her horrified glance from Mortamus' arrogant grin and looked down at the tattoo from her arm. There was nothing she could do...she had to follow this man's every order until he releases her...if he releases her. Until then...she was his slave. The thought of that sickened her to the very core. She actually felt like throwing up that very moment, but she held her composure and just shot Mortamus a menacing glare then proceeded out of his chambers.

After she left, Mortamus sat atop his throne once again and sighed dejectedly, "Ahhh...I'll never get tired of this." He began laughing loudly, his laughter echoing throughout the castle, sending a cold chill down the reluctant mercenary's spine as she hurried down the spiraling steps of his tower.

((working progress))

Chapter 43:


"How the hell am I supposed to lead this guild while Lonewolf and Hajimate are gone?!" A flustered Majik paced back and forth as he spoke to the young loyal knight, Derek, who just stood there patiently. "If I may, Majik..." he began, addressing his friend by his name rather then his superior, "What?!" spat Majik. Derek cleared his throat before speaking, "Perhaps we should just relax until our leaders return. I mean...the dragoons seem to be behaving themselves anyway." as he said this he gestured toward the peaceful serenity that surrounded them within the lounge.

Josh Jackson was in his usual place, by the bar and drinking heavily, especially now since there was no bartender. Clowde was fast asleep on a nearby couch, snoring softly. Everyone else followed Hajimate's orders in setting up a solid defense around the guild. Cannons along with riflemen littered the left and right sides of the guild's boundaries. Infantry units stood at attention in both the front and rear of the guild along with the guild's mages and mages-in-training. Some tended to the guild's crops in the fields while a few others resumed their training regimes within the dojo.

"I guess you're right..." said Majik as he scratched the back of his head, "Heh...this 'leader' stuff is pretty easy." he added with a confident smile. Derek just rolled his eyes, "Just stay alert, Majik. There's no telling if those zombies will end up attacking our guild." Majik's confident smile faded, "Oh yeah...forgot about that." he admitted embarrassingly.

"Sir Majik!" one of the dragoons from the front flank of the guild ran up to Majik and Derek, a concerned look pervaded his facial features. Never being called "sir" before, Majik couldn't help but feel a strong sense of pride and importance as he puffed up his chest and regarded the concerned dragoon with an air of arrogance, "Yes peon?" he smiled pompously. The dragoon seemed a bit offended by Majik's response, but just shrugged it off and continued his report, "There is a strange woman outside who wishes to join our ranks." he stated.

"Bring her in at once!" barked Majik. The dragoon just cocked an eyebrow, then nodded hesitantly, "Er...yes 'sir'." a tinge of sarcasm in his tone as he said the word "sir". He walked out the front door to fetch the mysterious woman. "Hmph!" snorted Majik, "Damn straight." he scoffed, obviously loving his new, powerful position. "Think you can tone it down...just a tad?" Derek regarded Majik with a look that resembled a mixture of pity and disgust at the same time.

"I've about had enough of your lip, soldier!" he shouted as he pointed at Derek, who just stood there and stared at him blandly. Derek just looked down and sighed softly, walked over slowly towards Majik...and punched him dead in the face. Majik clutched feebly at his, now bleeding, nose, "OW!! By dose!!" he cried. Derek smiled wryly at him, "Serves you right, you power hungry jerk." Majik was near tears as he attempted to stop the blood from pouring from his nose. "What da ********, ban?! You're dupposed to HELP be, not HURT be!!" Derek just stood there as he calmly readjusted his silver gauntlet, "Exactly." he stated, "I'm 'helping' you to not make a complete a** of yourself...'sir'." he said simply. Majik just glared at him as used his black scarf to plug his bleeding nose. "Can't I hab a bittle fun..? Jeesh!"

Just then, a beautiful, pink haired, turquoise armor clad woman stepped in, holding her glaive alongside her like a staff. She regarded Majik with a constricted brow, "Um...Lonewolf..?" she asked a bit doubtfully. Derek regarded her suspiciously, "No." he said, "Our leader is currently M.I.A at the moment. Who, may I ask, are you?" The woman smiled politely, "My name is Nie...er..." she caught herself, "Nierenda...Nierenda Waters." she corrected herself as she bowed her head courteously. Derek looked over at Majik then back at the woman, "And your business here?" he pressed.

The woman smiled warmly at Derek, "I've come from a far off land. I heard of this guild's exploits and triumphs and wished to join your ranks." she stated respectfully, "I am quite the formidable opponent in combat..." she added, "...and judging by the way your troops have been stationed, I suspect that you are all preparing for some kind of battle?" she asked. Derek nodded, "You could say that..." he said with a hint of suspicion. Though the woman had been nothing but courteous and respectful, there was something about her that seemed...untrustworthy.

"Sure! you cad join!" chimed Majik through his bloodied scarf. "We could duse all da help be cad get!" he added enthusiastically. Nierenda bowed her head respectfully, "Thank you, sir. I'll do my best!" she smiled, "Where should I station myself?" she asked. "Umb..." Majik thought about it for a moment, "You could joib da oders outsibe in da front." he pointed back at the front door. "Splendid." the woman smiled and bowed her head one last time then began walking toward the door.

She suddenly stopped to look back at Majik and Derek, "May I ask when Lonewolf will be returning?" she asked innocently, "I've been wanting to meet him in person ever since I heard about his exploits with this guild." she quickly added. Derek's eyebrows furrowed, "We don't know. He just disappeared...there is a search party currently on the lookout for him." Nierenda looked down, feigning a sense of disappointment, "Oh..." she said disdainfully, "Well...I hope they find him." she nodded. She smiled one last time then proceeded out the door.

"I don't trust her." said Derek finally after she left. "Why?" sniffed Majik as he released his nose from his bloodied scarf. The blood had stopped pouring from his nose finally. He gave his nose one last wipe with his scarf, "She seemed nice...plus you heard her, she's a good fighter." Derek shook his head slowly as he eyed the front door, "Don't you think it's a little strange for some random stranger suddenly wanting to join our guild right after the appearance of that castle? After Lonewolf and Pana had gone missing?" he looked back at Majik as he asked that last question.

Majik just shrugged, "Coincidence." he stated simply. Derek shook his head slowly, "I don't believe in coincidences. There's something not right about her...did you notice the strange tattoo on her arm?" Majik scratched the back of his head, "Yeah, so? I've seen tons of tribal tattoos that look like that. What's the big deal?" Derek bit the bottom of his lip, "It seemed to be glowing a strange, greenish color." Majik's eyebrows furrowed, "I didn't see that...you're just imagining things." he sighed.

"Maybe..." admitted Derek, "But still..." he began. "You're just bein' paranoid!" spat Majik. "She's just another mercenary lookin' for a fight, just like every other member of this guild." he began walking up the steps to the second floor, "I'm gonna take a bath and wash my scarf." he said without waiting for a response from Derek. Derek just stood there, looking down at the ground, "There's definitely something strange about that woman...I need to keep an eye on her." he said to himself.


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((still editing. Will continue later.))