Volume 0: Sacred Destiny
Jan 1, 2015 0:33:47 GMT -6
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Post by msgrrtasticdiva1982 on Jan 1, 2015 0:33:47 GMT -6
Volume 0: Sacred Destiny
“... I don’t understand.” The young man shakes his head. “When was matrimony arranged between us?”
The young lady prances around him, silently rousing his annoyances. “Well ...” She giggles merrily, as if she were a rascally spirit out for his heart. “Since today, you know?” She pauses in front of him, earning nothing more than a gruff stare shrouded by quieted nervousness. “It’s customary: ‘The Keeper of Souls must choose a wife’. And since I’m the one who knows you best, I believe I would make a g-r-e-a-t wife for you. It’s like, uh ... finders’ keepers?”
“... Aisha. No.” The young man walks past her.
The young lady stomps like an overindulged child. “Oh ... Come on, Zephyr!” The young man’s face merrily distorts, already knowing how deeply the young lady cares for him. However, his heart lies somewhere else—someplace f-a-r beyond the shores of normality. “Oh, um ... Wait up, okay?” The young lady sheepishly follows him, takes his right arm and nuzzles him. “I wish you felt the same way, really. I’d treat you like a king, you know?”
The young man halts, turns to the young lady and takes her hands. “... Aisha. Listen to me.”
“Um ...” The young lady blushes. “Y-Yes?”
“Manipulating another’s destiny to fulfill your own is unjust. Besides, the Temple laws say no such thing about arranged, mutually-agreed, or *forced* marriage.” The young man’s biting words flush the young lady’s face red, but ironically earns her a big hug. “Thank you. It’s nice to know someone is so ... ‘infatuated’ with me. But ...” The young lady looks into the young man’s eyes, and notices an earnest glow. “My heart lies with my duty as the Keeper of Souls, and I view you as ‘a little sister’. So, please, do refrain from carrying on with these amorous antics?”
The young lady shies away and grunts. “Oh ... Okay. Fine, whatever you say.”
“Humph. Besides ...” The young man releases her, turns and giggles under his breath. “I believe one of the Temple monks-in-training has taken a liking to you.” The young lady blushes, having never thought one of her fellow residents fancied her so much. “I must part for now. Kai is waiting for me.” The young man leaves. “Take care, Aisha.”
The young lady waves to the parting young man. “Um ... Good fortune to you, Zephyr.”
“Fàguàng Sì,” the Luminous Temple.
The people residing here are a peculiar yet unique few, those versed in “Yìshù Gài Cí,” the Way of the Gates. Secluded from the outside world, each bearing destinies connected to and decided by the stars. Vigorous, disciplined, and incredible warriors guided by the “rhythm of the universe”. “Concentrate, Zephyr, concentrate.” This is the story of the Keeper of Souls, whose destiny transcends the trinity of existences. “Focus, boy—focus your Cosmos.”
The destined Keeper of Souls conditions his Gate to the best of his capabilities. “I’m ... trying ...” His name has been established as “Zephyr”. He has called the Luminous Temple “home” for most of his life, and the people here are his “family,” though not by blood. Zephyr has dedicated his life to becoming “the strongest Keeper alive,” in order to protect the “Souls of the Universe”. “I ... can’t go on ...” Unfortunately, he has much to learn. Zephyr becomes faint when he overexerts his “Cosmos,” the basis of “Arcane Energy;” the source needed to control a Gate. His adopted father and mentor, Kai, comes to his aid, giving Zephyr his arms to land in. “Ugh ... Thank you, Kai.”
Kai helps Zephyr to a seat upon the training ground floor. “Don’t mention it, boy. You’ve done well like always. Please, just rest for a moment.” Listening to Kai’s heartbeat has always calmed Zephyr down. Since he was an infant, he’s always shared this bond with the man who stood up and acted as his father. “Are you well?”
“... Yes. I am.”
“Can you stand?”
“Momentarily, I suppose.” Zephyr’s sly wit tickles his adopted father. “Hey, Kai ...”
The fathering monk composes and becomes attentive. “Yes?”
“... Have you ever been ... to the outside worlds?”
“I have. As a warrior monk, I’ve seen many worlds, but my visits were ... unpleasant.”
“What happened?”
“The expected—war, conquest, and meaningless bloodshed.” Zephyr sits up and gazes beyond his fringe into Kai’s eyes. “The heart you've grown to love, and the hands that helped make you into the man you are today ...” Kai observes his hands with aversion, recalling countless transgressions done in the past. “I cannot begin to tell you ... how regrettable and *despicable* a man I am. Death ... is not our way.” Despite his shame, Kai doesn't see any change in Zephyr’s eyes. They still seem kind, gentle, and understanding. “You ... You would still accept a fool like me?”
Zephyr smiles and closes his eyes. “... Death and warfare are inescapable brothers; their existences are synchronous.” Having regained a bit of his strength, Zephyr stands and kindly pardons himself. “I think I’ll visit the flower fields for a spell. In my absence, feel no shame, Kai—my father.” As he departs, Kai feels relieved by Zephyr’s acceptance; for, he is a man convicted of a grave offense according to Temple law. Despite his obvious humiliations, Kai is proud to be Zephyr’s adopted father, through better and worse.
Observing the training grounds, an open platform surrounded by sand and wooden foundations, Kai recalls his days as an active warrior; before being banned from the theaters of war. As a Priest of Light, his duty is to purify the souls of his enemies, not send them to their deaths. Ironically, Zephyr possesses the same moral values as he does; knowing the importance of life and death, and that not all lives are promised in the end. “... He may very well be the strongest priest among us.” Kai accepts a self-made sense of inferiority, although he is nothing of the sort in Zephyr’s eyes. A “father” has much to teach their children, blood or not. “My boy ... Do well in the long run. Please.”
The flower fields are where Celine, Zephyr’s adopted mother and spiritual teacher, reside. It never rains here, in this mysterious country where Arcane Energy maintains the country’s flora, fauna and life-force. The wind is always crisp, cooling and relaxing, sustained by a large emerald overlooking most of the flower fields. “Oh, Zephyr.” Celine notices her adopted son and student approaching. She smiles and resumes meditating, becoming one with the Cosmos surrounding the unknown country. “Come. Sit. I sense Kai’s training has overworked you again.” Zephyr arrives and complies with Celine’s gentle demands. Then, he closes his eyes and joins Celine’s meditation. “Good. Now, as always, focus. Focus, Zephyr, and journey with me to the stars.” Zephyr complies with Celine’s instructions, and joins her in “the Alternate Plane”—one of many spiritual sub-realms that momentarily separates one from all manner of negativity. “It’s always a pleasure, Zephyr, but what brings you to me today? Cosmic meditation isn't until tomorrow.”
Zephyr’s astral projection becomes sullen with discontent. “I ... I *hate* living like this!”
“Oh, dear.” Celine is surprised. “I can feel your anger. It’s ... explosive!”
“Training. Conditioning. It’s becoming ...” Zephyr composes with a rough sigh. “It’s just too much, Celine. I know nothing about the outside worlds, and I’m beginning to feel ... confined.”
Celine senses the anxiousness in Zephyr’s temperament. “Ah, I see.”
“What is it?”
“It seems you’re completely ready to explore the outside worlds.”
Zephyr is amazed. “R-Really?”
“Indeed. But the Ancient must recognize this before any further decisions can be made.” Suddenly, Zephyr feels unsure about Celine’s praises, which slightly confuses her. “Are you well?”
“I’m fine. I just feel ...”
“Afraid. I can tell.” Celine has read Zephyr’s heart with striking precision. The predestined Keeper of Souls feels small compared to his adopted mother. “Zephyr, it’s normal to feel fear; it’s what makes us human.” Having heard the obvious truth, Zephyr momentarily shies away. “But, the funny thing about fear ...” Zephyr bashfully looks at her off the corner of his eyes. “It provokes irrationality and desperation from all souls. These provocations can either be good or bad; it depends on the person and the situation at hand.”
Zephyr looks to his adopted mother with confused eyes. “I ... don’t understand.”
“What confuses you?”
“How could ... *fear* be a good thing? Isn't fear poisonous to the soul?”
“As I said before, ‘it depends on the person and the situation at hand’.” Curious about such information, Zephyr gives Celine his undivided attention. “During your fated quest, you will experience the many ‘probabilities of fear,’ and they will teach you countless valuable lessons. Fear is what makes and breaks all souls. However, you mustn’t allow fear to overwhelm you. Use it wisely. For, fear can become your greatest strength or your greatest weakness.” Despite being a straightforward and logical person, Zephyr is open-minded, giving leeway to all proposals, theories and truths. Unfortunately, as he has never experienced “true fear,” he’s unable to comprehend Celine’s words. For most of his life, Zephyr was sheltered, protected and privileged by the Temple denizens. He has much to learn and experience. Countless worlds of which he will absorb, morally and socially. “Zephyr ...” He closes his eyes at the sound of Celine’s concerned tone. “You should bathe and rest. Suppertime will arrive shortly.”
“... Yes. That sounds nice.” Celine and Zephyr descend from the Alternate Plane via Cosmic focus, and return to their world. Celine opens her eyes to observe her adopted son standing earnestly. “If you need me, I’ll be in my chamber. Thank you for your time, Celine. You are ... truly a wonderful mother figure.” Celine is pleased to hear such praises, and feels the love from Zephyr as he departs from the flower fields. “See you at suppertime. Good fortune to you, always.”
Gentle warmth grows in her chest. Celine and Zephyr developed an incredible bond over the years, one that has sustained him for as long as he can remember. “Good fortune to you, always.” When Kai took over as Zephyr’s father, Celine was the one who implored the Ancient’s kindness. As he is not a full-blooded member of their clan, an outcast from places unknown, many old-fashioned denizens displayed xenophobic behavior—disguising hatred with tradition. It wasn't until Zephyr showed the beginnings of “the most powerful Gate” during infancy that Celine and Kai’s “heresy” was understood. The Ancient would permit the babe’s stay only if they acted as his “parental guardians”. That is when Celine and Kai strengthened their bond as siblings, and acted as Zephyr’s surrogate parents. (“My son ...”) Celine holds her heart, feeling troubled by unsettling emotions. (“The road you must take is dangerous. Enemies will be found at every turn.”) Her motherly resolve reinforces. (“Do not falter. Be strong. You are ‘the hope of all souls.’ They need you and we believe in you. Even in our absence, you will always have our strength.”)
The strength of bonds. A mystery in its own right.
Why must people bother with such trivialities? The fear of being alone? To broaden one’s social connections? To find those of whom one shares many similarities? The answers are endless and depend on the person, but ... Why are things this way? These aren't the thoughts of many; for, most feel the need to socialize. It’s an undying hunger that plagues the soul, freeing it from the jaws of isolation, individuality, and in some cases ... incompleteness. (Who are you ...?) In the depths of the Alternate Plane, the meditating Kai finds himself visited by a voice from the darkness. (Hey, can you hear me? I asked who you are.) Kai looks all around the Plane, but perceives nothing. (Humph. Not the talkative type, I see.)
Kai humors himself by replying. “Where are you? I can hear you, but I can’t see you.”
(Can’t see me?) The voice giggles, humored by Kai’s curiosity. (... Are you even looking hard enough?) Suddenly, Kai is surrounded by blinding light, which forces him to cover his eyes! Moments pass before Kai is able to uncover his eyes and see the oddest sight: he is surrounded by six brilliantly obscured figures, amid an endless sea of pure white magnificence. The monk is confused, unsure why he’s seeing this. (Can you see us now?)
“... Yes.” Kai nods confusedly. “Yes, I see ... six lights?”
(We’re the Souls of Zephyr’s foreordained Guardians.) Another speaks from the lights, which have been designated as Zephyr’s future comrades. A woman. (We came here to warn you ahead of time.)
“Warn me? Of what?”
Another voice speaks from the lights. Another man, whose tone is much deeper than the first. (Pandemonium will come for you. Your soul is corrupted with shame. That makes you easy prey.)
“... The Lord of Chaos?” Kai is unnerved by such foreboding news. “Because of ... my shamed soul?”
(Pandemonium will promise you “great power”.) Another female speaks, though she sounds a little younger than the first. (It’s a double-edged sword; guarantees with ulterior motives. Deadly ones. Be wary.)
(Should the Lord of Chaos take you, it would mean trouble. For everyone.) Another young man who bears a distinguishable sense of youthful pride speaks. (In other words: don’t screw up. Got it?)
The sixth soul steps forward, confronting Kai with earnest bearing. (If you do screw up, he will die and I’ll have no other choice but to *kill* you myself.) Kai is taken aback with shock, having never heard someone speak so threateningly to him, not even during his days as an active Warrior Priest of Light. (... Now, wake up. A storm is coming.)
Kai departs from the Alternate Plane, and finds himself seated on the training grounds. Thunder rumbles in the distance, which is abnormal in the unknown country. “... I must inform the Ancient.” He stands and leaves the training grounds for the Sanctuary, where the Ancient resides. “Something is about to happen. Something ... horrible.”
After bathing, Zephyr decided to take Celine’s advice and rest for a while. Suppertime would arrive shortly, and waiting around would only make him weary. He is now sound asleep in his bed, descending into the realm of dreams.
When his eyes open within his subconscious, Zephyr begins experiencing abnormal sensations. A warm wind. The sound of gentle howling. The feeling of placing his feet on solid ground. “Where ... am I?” He turns around and notices the platform he’s standing on is beginning to illuminate. Upon the platform is the image of a man appearing to be engaged in some manner of sorcery. “... Is this ... one of the omnipotent Arcana?” In the center of the platform, a person whose likeness is concealed behind crimson robes appears. “Oh!” Zephyr is startled. “Who ... are you?”
“... One of your destined Guardians.” The person bears the voice of the first man who addressed Kai in his vision. The Guardian approaches Zephyr and places his hand on the boy’s shoulder. “Come on. Let’s ascend the tower together.” This Guardian bears compassionate yet resilient character, something Zephyr has come to admire in his life, especially when those of his own gender are concerned. “Don’t dawdle, Zeph. Nothing will get done.”
Zephyr is surprised by the Guardian’s persistence. “Oh. Um ... Right.” Upon agreeing with the Guardian, a mysterious crystal tower illuminates to the east. The Keeper of Souls steps forward thrice, having never seen a more beauteous sight. “Oh, w-o-w ... Not even the emerald in the flower fields is this ... *big*!” The Guardian is tickled by Zephyr’s amazement, which turns the boy where he stands. “... Oh. Did I say something funny?”
“... You always act so ... curious about everything.” The Guardian proceeds past Zephyr, who follows the enigmatic being towards the crystal tower. So many questions ... Zephyr has so many things he wishes to ask the Guardian, and yet he’s speechless. He’s never met someone like this Guardian before. “You’re normally talkative. Something bothering you, Zeph?” That nickname, “Zeph,” stands out to the Keeper of Souls. It’s as if this Guardian is pre-acquainted with him. Despite the Guardian’s affection, Zephyr remains shyly inaudible. “Hey, are you listening to me?”
In order to refrain from behaving rudely, Zephyr answers the Guardian. “... I ... don’t know you ... I think ...”
“... You’re right. But I know you.”
“You do?”
“Yeah. During our ‘planetary globe-trot,’ we become close. Very close.”
Zephyr is confused, but maintains his character to remain inconspicuous. “Close? ... That sounds nice.” He overhears the Guardian huffing amusedly, as if to hint that he knows Zephyr’s putting on an act. Yes, indeed, Zephyr has never encountered a person like this specific Guardian. Confident and charismatic, an alluring being of mystery shrouded in crimson robes. “Um ...” Zephyr parts his lips to speak, but before he can complete his sentence, the Guardian advances into the crystal tower. “Oh. Um, wait for me.” He follows the Guardian like a curious and dependent child. As he walks, Zephyr overhears a peculiar sound behind him, one that turns him to the platform defragmenting into what appears like shattered pieces of glass. “Oh, dear ...”
Zephyr turns and hurries into the crystal tower, the platform continuously defragmenting in his wake. The Guardian pauses on the third step of the crystal tower, turns, and observes the forthcoming of the hasting Keeper of Souls. A smile distorts the Guardian’s handsome chin. “Humph.” Zephyr arrives, pauses on the second step, and takes a moment to catch his breath. The Guardian folds his arms, amused by the fatigued Zephyr standing a step above him. “Fear makes you do the craziest things ...” Hearing those words reminds Zephyr of what Celine said to him in the flower fields. He opens his eyes and notices a gentle brown glow in the Guardian’s irises. “Don’t get mesmerized. These eyes have seen lots of things; good and bad. Comes with a rough backstory.” Zephyr blushes and shies away, tickling the Guardian, who invitingly extends his right hand. “Come. I’ll protect you.”
Zephyr holds his chest, feeling gentle warmth growing within. “P-protect me?”
“Yeah ... I’m not afraid of the darkness. You taught me how to be strong; stronger than I ever was. I ... owe you my life, Zeph. You are the wind that rouses my flame.” Such passion ... Zephyr has never felt so much devotion in another’s voice. It’s comforting. More soothing than the breeze of the flower fields. “Take my hand, Zeph, please.” He doesn't understand why he gives his hand to the Guardian. It’s like magic. A curious spell. “Good. Now, let’s go.” Ah, the charm of the Guardian is as he says: a warm flame roused by the wind. Zephyr descends the crystal staircase hand-in-hand with the Guardian, whose enigmatic soul has somehow hypnotized him. “Hey, Zeph.”
“... Um ...” Zephyr giggles, still amused by the Guardian’s name choice. “Yes?”
“Do you know you smell like Filias?”
Zephyr is intrigued. “Filias? What are those?”
“A special flower that only blooms in the springtime. Filias. They’re light green with many petals, and they have a very gentle scent. Kind of like peppermints.” Zephyr is tickled once again by the Guardian’s eccentric character. Unfortunately, before he can say anything, the Soulless appear from rifts originating from Armageddon! The said realm is where Pandemonium, Lord of Chaos, reigns supreme. “Stay back, Zeph ...” The Guardian outstretches his right hand, revealing a jeweled bangle emblazoning his wrist. The crimson jewel twinkles, igniting the Guardian’s knifing hand with a blade of concentrated flames. Standing with loose yet strong bearing, the Guardian prepares to engage the oncoming Gnomes—the weakest of Soulless. “Gnomes are small fry, but they’re tricky. Watch and learn.” Suddenly, fear invigorates Zephyr, prompting him to the Guardian’s side. “You want in on this, Zeph?”
“I ...” The Keeper of Souls’ martial prowess shines, as he demonstrates his refined battle form. “I ... am also unafraid. Though your name is a lingering curiosity, I am led to fight at your side.”
The Guardian is highly impressed. “Ah-ha! So you've got a little fire in you after all? Good.” Zephyr’s courage provoked by the fear of loss awakens strength in the Guardian, who braces himself for combat. “Now, it’s party time!”
The Gnomes engage Zephyr and the fiery Guardian by sticking to the shadows. Hiding and striking quickly, that is their strategy. Unfortunately, their sneaky endeavors are all for naught; they’re easily dispelled by the Guardian’s flaming slashes and fierce kicks, and Zephyr’s rhythmic martial form with emphasis on palm strikes and knife-hands. Amid their battle, the Keeper of Souls finds himself fascinated by the Guardian’s hypnotizing skill. “Wow! You’re good!”
The two stand back-to-back, surrounded by Gnomes. “Don’t be modest, Zeph. This is your doing.”
“My doing, you say?”
“... In the future, you’ll understand what I mean. Now, stay close.” Zephyr complies with the Guardian’s instruction, as the flame blade upon his right hand expands and cascades the stairway! The Gnomes are burned to smoky ashes in the fury of the Guardian’s flames! Zephyr awes at how quickly his acquaintance dealt with their assailants, so much that he’s speechless amid the flames’ extinguishing. “Go ahead, Zeph.” Zephyr turns to the image of the Guardian, whose physical form appears to be dissipating into starlight. “My time is up. The next Guardian awaits you at the bottom of the staircase.” The fading Guardian turns to Zephyr, who tears up with curious emotion. “Hey, now ...” Zephyr embraces the Guardian, unsure of why he’s so emotional all of a sudden. The Guardian returns his embrace. “This is just a dream, but a prophetic one. We’ll meet again, but we won’t know each other. Well, you won’t know me. At first.”
“... I’ll ... remember your voice ...” Zephyr looks up and notices the leonine shape of the Guardian’s eyes. The artfulness of his smile. The sharpness of his obscured profile. “And both your eyes and your smile. I’ll ... know you when I see you. I promise.” They release each other, the Guardian performing a leisure yet respective salute. Then, in a mild cosmic explosion, the Guardian ... is gone. Zephyr holds his heart with great emotion. “Filias ...” He places his hands to his nose, recalling the flower the Guardian likened to him. “A unique springtime flower with a peppermint aroma. ... My. So curious, and yet ...” Zephyr refocuses and turns to the descending staircase ahead. “I must move on.”
Without another word, he descends the staircase to whereabouts unknown. Uncertain of whom or what he will find.
Another unseen platform ...
.... Zephyr sets foot upon grounds that illuminate on contact. The image of a beautiful blue maiden of royalty seated upon a throne of the finest ore, seated between white and black pillars; this is the image revealed. Zephyr’s eyes widen with amazement. “... The High Priestess?” Suddenly, more Gnomes advent and surround the Keeper of Souls at all corners! “Well, well, well .” Zephyr physically and mentally prepares himself for combat, recalling the said Soulless’ strategy. “It would seem these creatures have taken *quite* the liking to me. My. How annoying.” The Gnomes cometh fiercely, behaving more aggressively than the ones Zephyr encountered alongside the former Guardian. Despite their fervor, the Keeper of Souls retains the solidity and ferocity of his martial form, expelling the Gnomes with the greatest of ease. He ends his attack, and observes the expelled Soulless’ dissipation. “Humph. Hopefully, this is the last of them.”
“No, it’s not, unfortunately.” Zephyr is surprised by the sound of another mysterious voice; the one belonging to the first lady who spoke to Kai in his vision. He turns to the image of a smaller Guardian shrouded in sapphire robes. The Guardian stands with feminine bearing confessing sass and buoyancy. “The Soulless are everywhere, Zee ...” The Guardian approaches Zephyr with a distinctive womanly saunter, addressing him with yet another doting nickname, just like the previous Guardian. “You’ll do yourself t-o-n-s of justice remembering that.” The Guardian pauses and pinches his cheek, before walking past him, bearing a charm Zephyr has never before witnessed. He visually follows the Guardian, somewhat mystified by her collectiveness. “Come on, Zee. No victory for the lazy. Right?” The Guardian halts, turns and sports posture confessing unsaid, keen wit. “What, need Sis to drag you by the hand?”
Zephyr blushes. “Oh. Um ... No. I can move on my own.”
The Guardian giggles proudly. “Attaboy! That’s what I like to hear. Now ...” She turns and faces an ironically-appearing crystal tower in the distance. “Let’s go, Zee.” Without another word, the Guardian approaches the crystal tower, Zephyr following in her wake ... The air of this part of the dream world feels rather cool. Soothingly cool. A sensation arousing curiosity in the Keeper of Souls. “... I miss him.” The Guardian speaks longingly, as if her heart were breaking. “My husband. I miss him ... You made a promise to reunite us with our loved ones.”
“I ... promised that?” Uttering this question rouses curious warmth in Zephyr’s chest. “Oh ...” This warmth. He can’t help but ponder its origins. “I wonder ... how close I’ll become to my Guardians.”
“... Very.” The Guardian speaks warmly, hiding a smile beneath her hood. “So close that ... he will ...”
Deeply-rooted emotions bring the Guardian to a halt before the crystal tower’s entrance. Zephyr halts in his footsteps, and observes the Guardian’s about-face ... After gazing upon her silent majesty for a moment, Zephyr parts his lips to speak. Ironically, before he can say anything, the Guardian approaches and embraces him, taking Zephyr by surprise! “Oh, dear ...” The Guardian may be small, but she’s shockingly strong. This strength, however, is comforting. Embracing and inviting. “... I can feel it ...” Zephyr smiles. “Our bond. It’s ... rather heartening.”
“... There. Now, be brave.” The Guardian releases Zephyr and steps back, reclaiming her feminine posture. “You’re our leader, so no chickening out. We need you. In one piece. Got it?” Zephyr’s eyes widen with a mixture of surprise, bashfulness and revival. Seeing no gain in idling about, the Guardian turns and proceeds down the crystal tower’s stairway. “Come on, Zee. Destiny calls.” Encouraged by the Guardian’s charm, Zephyr follows the inviting cloaked enigma, descending towards unknown happenstances ... Moments of silence pass, but this looming serenity comes to a quick end, as the Guardian strikes up another conversation. “Hey, Zee. What’s your world like?”
Zephyr blushes. “Oh ... My world?”
“Yeah. You never mention anything about yourself. You’re ... really mysterious.”
“Oh. Well ...” Zephyr fiddles his fingers, a habit that confesses deep thought. “There are many pastures in my world. The sun always shines and the wind is always crisp. A peaceful world where everyone lives in harmony, most of the time that is.” A smile distorts his face with innocent pride, as he recalls the grand beauty that is his world. However, this pride distorts into shame, as he remembers the grim truth about his existence. “I grew up there, and the people raised me as one of their own, but ... I’m not originally from there, so my true origins are shrouded in mystery.”
“So ... you’re an orphan?”
“Yes.” Zephyr’s shame strengthens. “Yes ... I am.”
The Guardian halts, prompting Zephyr to do the same. “... Sorry about that, Zee. Totally my bad.” Her voice confesses like emotion. “That was ... really insensitive of me. I should know better than to say things like that.” The Guardian turns and faces Zephyr apologetically. “I know what it’s like—living an unsatisfactory life. Harboring a butt-load of unanswered questions ... And, I ... didn’t have much of a childhood. So who am I to talk?” Zephyr senses sincerity in the Guardian’s every manner of language. Her honesty substantiates her loyalty. “I ... hope this doesn't ruin our bond.”
Zephyr smiles and shakes his head. “No. And don’t worry, you didn’t offend me—not one bit.” The Keeper of Souls advances past the Guardian, earning her unseen fascination. “I am a Priest of Light.” Zephyr halts, turns, places his fists on his hips, and smiles. “As a Priest, I learned many things. Humanity. Virtuosity. Iniquity. Clemency. Lessons that I’m sure not many learn in their lifetimes. Or ...” Zephyr turns and ponders his curiosities aloud. “Or is it people are taught them, but they neglect these teachings to meet their carnal fulfillments? Hmm ... I wonder ...”
The Guardian titters humoredly, approaches Zephyr, and places her hand on his shoulder. “Zee. Bud. You have absolutely *no* idea how right you are. And I have to admit, I’ve done that plenty of times. But you see, certain occasions ...” Suddenly, their peacetime is interrupted by yet another Soulless spawn! The Guardian steps before Zephyr and acts as a human shield. “Call for certain decisions. Damn! Talk about ‘exhibit A’.” Zephyr’s face distorts courageously, as he mentally and physically reinforces for battle. “Oh, almost forgot ...” The Guardian steps aside and does the same, by conjuring a water sphere from surrounding aqueous vapors. “You can take care of yourself. My bad.” Zephyr strengthens his martial form, as the Guardian excites. “Okay, Zee, let’s break these punks a new one!”
Zephyr giggles. “If you mean ‘let’s defeat them,’ then here-here.” The Soulless fiercely advance, forcing Zephyr and the Guardian to maintain a high-level of focus amid their struggle! The Keeper of Souls displays a refined blend of offense and defense, striking the Soulless Gnomes to their dooms. The Guardian exhibits incredible intelligence, ailing the Soulless with acrobatic kicks and splashes from her water sphere. Zephyr catches the Guardian in work midway through their struggle, and immediately becomes amazed by her keen battle wit. “You ... can afflict the enemy?”
“Stay focused!” The Guardian dashes past Zephyr, flinging her water sphere to disburse the last of the Soulless in the blink of an eye! Zephyr is stunned as much he is relieved. “These creeps don’t give second chances ...” The Keeper of Souls turns to behold the standing Guardian dispelling her water sphere, her back facing him. “Believing the otherwise gets you ... disintegrated.” A cruel déjà vu plagues Zephyr, as the Guardian slowly defragments into stardust, just like the one before. He takes a step forward, as the Guardian faces him with a smile. “When our world began disappearing, I saw it ... Everyone started disintegrating—turning into stardust ... All except for us.”
“You mean ... like right now?”
“Yeah. You see ...” The Guardian cups her hands against her bosom. “We’re all made of stardust. Cosmos. Life-force from ‘the great star ocean’. You taught me that. You said it was one of those ‘lessons’ you learned.”
Zephyr smiles, recognizing the Guardian’s knowledge. “Yes. That’s true.” The Guardian stretches her hand to Zephyr, prompting him to step forward and take it. “As I said to the other Guardian, ‘I’ll remember you’. In your case, for your charisma and intelligence. I can honestly say, without a doubt, you are a one-of-a-kind woman.”
A tear escapes the Guardian’s hood, surprising Zephyr. “... Thank you, Zee. I ... well ... I ...”
Zephyr smiles and shakes his head. “No words, my friend. Your actions were enough.” Hearing the Keeper of Souls’ approval, the Guardian’s body completely defragments into stardust, and becomes one with the dream realm. Zephyr places his extended hand to his heart, and closes his eyes for a spell. “... Sis? Hmm ... Sister ... Yes. Indeed.” He turns and faces the remainder of the descending staircase. “I guess ... this is what it feels like to have a sister. My. How comforting.”
With no time to spare, Zephyr continues onward ... towards his destiny.
Zephyr exits the crystal tower, and sets foot upon another platform. The air here feels thicker, somewhat suffocating compared to the previous platforms. “Hmm ... It’s rather ... stuffy here.” He gently tugs his collar, venting himself well enough to breathe. “Ugh! So this is what humidity feels like. How ... uncomfortable.”
(... Are you not afraid of darkness, boy?)
Zephyr is surprised by an unfamiliar voice, speaking to him from realms beyond. He scans the area, fortifying himself with strong martial form. “... Who goes there? Who are you? ... Where are you hiding?”
(You’re ignoring me, boy. Now answer my question: do you fear darkness or not?)
“Do I ...” Zephyr stands upright, places his hand on his chest and closes his eyes. “Do I ... fear darkness?” Pondering this rouses some manner of resilience. A mild burst of spirit from the depths of his soul. “... No!” The Keeper of Souls mentally and physically prepares for battle. “Even in the deepest darkness, I *will* fight until I see the light!”
Suddenly, the environment comes alive!
Shadows amass and mound, fusing to create a creature of immense proportions. Zephyr is taken aback by the creature—a Soulless of a different breed. One presenting a great threat, whose looming, foreboding crimson eyes feel as if they’re staring into Zephyr’s soul. (Humph. Your resolve is admirable. But ...) The Keeper of Souls feels something come over him; something strange, indescribably strange. (When *your* soul is on the line, will you still not fear darkness? Could you stare into the abyss wholeheartedly, and not break as much as a sweat?) The Soulless takes a swipe at Zephyr with its great right arm, forcing the Keeper’s agility! (No! You will not! You! Are! Human!) Zephyr remains light on his feet, digging deep down into the roots of his training to survive this encounter. The great Soulless chases Zephyr with its hands, as if to seize and crush him in its grasp. (Human! Human! Humans *fear* what they cannot see and *destroy* what they cannot understand! So, no, you conceited fool! You are absolutely wrong ...) The Soulless balls its right hand into a tight fist, and throws it at the stationary Zephyr! (Wrong! Wrong!) Zephyr cowers, closes his eyes and covers his face with his forearms! Luckily, something ... no, someone appears and delivers a daring save at the last second—another cloaked enigma; another Guardian. (What!?) The Soulless’ heightened voice opens Zephyr’s eyes to the image of his rescuer: a valiant emerald hood that appears masculine like the first Guardian, but an inch smaller and a little broader built. The Soulless enrages! (You ... interloper! You’re always getting in the way!)
“... That’s a Guardian’s job, dumb ass.”
The Guardian balls his right fist and repels the Soulless with a single punch! (Argh!) This simple attack has somehow stunned the Soulless, having sent a shockwave through every cell in its body. (Curse ... you ...)
“Curse or not, I'm letting you hurt him. Period.” This specific Guardian seems much stricter than the previous two. Ironically, this strictness comes with a looming sense of duty. Qualities that remind Zephyr of his adopted father Kai, and the type of relationship they developed over the years. “Get bold, kid. But I have to agree with the chump—don’t be afraid to fear ... Fear is what makes and breaks the sentient. Without fear, there’s no courage.”
Once again, a Guardian reminds Zephyr of what Celine said to him in the flower fields. “Don’t ... be afraid to fear?” The Keeper of Souls places his hands on his chest, once again feeling gentle warmth. “... Without fear, there’s no courage.” Zephyr is empowered by these words. He closes his eyes, reinforces his resolve, reopens his eyes and takes his place at the Guardian’s side. “You’re right. Fear and courage go hand-in-hand. Without one, the other cannot exist.”
The Soulless recovers, its head light from the Guardian’s initial attack. (You ...) Suddenly, the platform illuminates and reveals yet another picture: the image of a woman taming a wild lion in an open pasture. The Soulless notices the arcane image upon the platform, and becomes mystified by its presence. (What? The ... Arcana of Strength!?)
The Guardian beats his chest with his right hand, rousing his Cosmos to great proportions, leans back and unleashes a powerful roar! The Soulless is stunned by the power surging from the Guardian; fortitude that prompts Zephyr to do the same, which invigorates the Guardian! “Oh, yeah, kid! That’s what I’m talking about!” With their Cosmos burning bright, the two warriors valiantly face the Soulless with great presence! “Now, let’s *finish* this chump!”
Zephyr nods and strengthens his martial form, while the Guardian displays strong, solid and dominant fighting posture. (You ... finish me?) The Soulless fully regains its composure, stands upright, and gazes upon the warriors with condemning eyes! (You finish me!? ... You couldn’t even save *her,* Keeper of Earth. Let alone save him!) These biting words do little to offend the Guardian, but succeed at confusing Zephyr. He’s not sure what the Soulless is speaking about, but he has a feeling that he’ll find out sooner or later. (Fight me, Keepers. Fight the darkness. Fight the unbeatable. Fight against yourself. Fight against a-l-l creatures in the universe!) Zephyr recomposes, realizing the Soulless has reached its limit of tolerance. (I. Am you. You. Are me! ... Can you defeat *yourselves,*? Are you ‘strong enough’ to overcome *your own odds*? Well ... Let’s find out, shall we?)
The Soulless engages Zephyr and the Guardian with “darkness conjuring”. It utilizes this method to construct and place dark crystals around the area, which act as “siphoning bodies;” entities made to drain and destroy Cosmos, bit by lethal bit. “Ugh!” Zephyr feels lightheaded, and falls to his hands and knees. “Why ... do I feel this way?”
“... Stand up, kid.” The Guardian is afflicted, but he refuses to surrender. With great strength, the Keeper of Earth stands and braces for a death-defying feat. “Stand up ... And help me fight!” Zephyr doesn't understand why he’s moving. How he’s able to stand in the face of such odds. “That’s it, kid ... Stand. *This* is where fear becomes your greatest weapon ...” Zephyr follows the voice of his Guardian, stands upright and prepares himself. The Guardian nods, reinforces his posture and rallies Zephyr for battle. “Alright, kid. Make your choice: live or die? Either way, it’s go-time!”
(Humph. Know your place ...) The Soulless scoffs its prey before the attack; a vicious attack, one of deadly calculation and unrelenting force. Zephyr and the Guardian toil on, not knowing how long they’re forced to fight the Soulless. Unfortunately, as time progress, so do the effects of the siphoning crystals—Zephyr and the Guardian soon lose most of their vitality, and are forced to retreat and refocus their approach. (Ha! So you need time, do you? ... Go ahead. Do what you will, you *fools*. It’s not as if you have much longer to live either way.) Facing the great Soulless head-on has proven ineffective; fatally ineffective. Thus, Zephyr takes an alternate approach. One that sets the Soulless at unease: the Keeper of Souls attacks the siphoning crystals, shattering them to ashes with furious fists! (What? No! Stop!)
The Guardian gets the idea, and joins the endeavor—taunting the Soulless in the process. “Yeah ... Now what!?”
(Cease! Desist! Stop this at once!)
“Too late, princess!” The Guardian conjures the limits of his strength, rousing the deepest depths of his Cosmos! And with one fierce roar, the Guardian’s Cosmos explode from his body and shatter every last siphoning crystal in their midst! Zephyr covers his ears, having heard the deafening majesty of a lion; a king of the jungle.
This dominant Guardian standing at his side is like this specific beast: A lion. Untamed and unrestrained. (No ... No!) Zephyr turns to the great Soulless, and observes its dramatic dissipation. Besides its soul-piercing voice, the Soulless’ natural shrieks of pain are heard. (Curse you, humans! You ... you ... cannot escape your own wrath!) Zephyr is defensively taken aback by the Soulless’ foreboding words. (Struggle ... all you want! You ... will never—!) Unfortunately, these words are brought to an untimely end, as the Soulless’ physical composition completely dissipates.
Zephyr lowers his defenses, stands upright and turns to the Guardian. Fear rouses doubt in Zephyr’s heart, as he takes a step towards the enigmatic powerhouse. “Are you ... well?” The Guardian answers Zephyr with actions, by turning and holding out his right fist. “Oh ...” The Keeper of Souls has never encountered someone with such mannerisms. “I take it this is a form of affection?” The Guardian snickers, making Zephyr blush. “Um ...”
“Fist to fist, kid. My right, your right.” Zephyr once again finds himself doing things he wouldn't normally do. Behaving as he normally wouldn’t. He complies by centering his right fist, bringing a smile to the Guardian’s handsome chin. “This right here. This is what keeps us together. We’re a team. We stick together like ...” Sadly, these words are among the Guardian’s final ones, as his physical composition starts defragmenting into stardust. “Family. Always and forever. That’s what you said to me ... when everything seemed lost ...” The curious warmth returns to Zephyr’s heart, as he takes the Guardian’s extended hand with his own. A strong, firm and empowering grip. “You ... showed me the meaning of true strength. For that, you have my loyalty. My brotherhood. My heart. My ... everything.” Behind these strong words lies a river of emotions contained only by the hood on the Guardian’s head. “See you around, kid. And good luck.”
With these final words, the Guardian’s Cosmos ascend and become one with the dream realm. “... He ... called me ‘Kid’.” Zephyr is moved to laughter, having never displayed such dominant behavior in the past. He’s a bit surprised by how he conducted himself under such circumstances. “My, oh my, how the hearts of men are swayed.” Suddenly, the sound of an unlocking door is heard in the distance to the south. The Keeper of Souls observes the said area to witness the spontaneous appearance of a conspicuous set of double doors. “Oh dear ...” Zephyr is drawn to the curious sight, having never before witnessed such wonder. “Hmm ... How curious ...” He halts before the double doors, daring to place his hands upon the handles. “What lies on the other side? I ... want to know ...”
(Are you sure?) The voice from beyond haunts him again, taking Zephyr aback with fright. Fortunately, this voice ... seems much kinder than the one from before. Soothing. Gentle. (Beyond this door lies your destiny. Once you open the door, there’s no turning back. So ... are you sure, Zephyr?) Although the voice’s presentation is strong, Zephyr cannot afford to deny his destiny. The Souls of the Universe depend on his persistence. Thus, as any man of conviction would, Zephyr grabs hold of the handles and opens the double doors. (Good. Your decision is the final hope of all worlds.)
From the doorway emerges a lethal flash of lightning, which awakens Zephyr in fright! He is still laid on his bed, his hair cascaded before his face from having slept wildly. Zephyr observes his surroundings, and notices that it’s thundering outside, but ... there isn't a single drop of rain falling from the sky. “... I must check on everyone.” Concern lifts him from his bed, hurries him through his bedroom door, and towards the Sanctuary entrance. Zephyr knows not what he will find at the end of the road, but whatever it may be ... he will face it. For it is his destiny.
A peculiar storm has consumed most of the sky.
Late-night clouds rumble and crack, thunder and strike, fumble and turn with frightening rhythm. No rain in sight. The wind, however, is mediocrely turbulent. A most curious air circulating with disharmonious motion.
Zephyr has never seen weather like this before; then again, he’s never been much of a night owl, so he can’t honestly say he knows much about nighttime atmosphere. “Is this ... stormy weather?” The Keeper of Souls observes the tremulous night sky from the Sanctuary gates—unsure what manner of storm it concocts. He folds his arms and holds himself, his hair and robes flinging mercilessly in the unforgiving current. “... Beyond that door lies my destiny.” Zephyr looks into the distance and notices a wandering image amid several lightning strikes. His eyes are momentarily widened by shock, but return to normal with determination. “This ... *is* my destiny. No turning back ... Never.” Zephyr takes a step forward. “Never.” That step becomes several. “Never. Never.” These steps become hurried. The hurried steps turn into running steps. “Never, never, never!” Zephyr has never felt such willpower. Such resolve. A natural grit roused by inexplicable desires. “Hey ... Hey, you! Stop, please!” He calls to the person within the storm, receiving no other answer besides alluring silence. A quietness that draws him deeper into the storm. “Excuse me! Whoever you are, please, wait!
Zephyr knows not the transpired time’s number, but he does make progress: He reaches an arm’s length with the wandering soul, and stops him or her with his right hand upon their back. The Keeper of Souls is mildly fatigued from having overexerted himself; however, he has received the award he most desired—the attention of the wandering soul. He parts his lips to speak, but fatigue stifles his words. (... Do you understand now?) The voice from before, the concluding one from his dream—the one that sounded gentle and inviting ... This is the voice speaking to him at the moment. Zephyr lifts his head and stands upright to notice a frighteningly curious sight: the image of himself, shrouded in Chaos! An explosion of surprise forces him away from the smiling doppelganger! (Don’t panic, child. This. Is. You ... Yourself ... How does it feel to see who you truly are inside, Zephyr? Is it ... delighting?)
“This is ... me?” The Keeper of Souls shakes his head, attempting to discard all manner of ill-thought. “... No. It can’t be. This just ... can’t be me.” Zephyr lifts and crosses his right hand to his left shoulder, before swaying it to the side with refusing gesture. “No! I refuse to believe such ... wizardry. This is ... hogwash, nothing more!
(Ah, yes! Human denial ... Humph. A most curious thing.) The doppelganger approaches Zephyr, extends its arms and takes him aback with confusion. This confusion evolves into defense, as the Keeper of Souls fortifies his martial form and engages the doppelganger with a fierce double push palm to the solar plexus! Sheer impact dissipates the doppelganger, whose ashes ascend to the storm above ... as a lost soul ... (My, my, my, Keeper of Souls.) Zephyr fearfully stands and scans the area, attempting to find the voice’s whereabouts. (Why are you so quick to hurt yourself? Do you ... harbor ill-will towards your own soul? If so ... Would you like to talk about it?)
“I ... don’t hate myself!” Zephyr reinforces, his firming knife-hands confessing varied defenses. He turns clockwise, observes and recognizes his whereabouts. “The flower fields? ... How coincidental.”
(Coincidental indeed, Keeper of Souls. A place where a valuable lesson was taught—to a creature fated to sacrifice everything in order to attain *everything* ... Zephyr. A man shrouded in mystery, anonymity, and saddening serenity. Who knew the universe’s spiritual balance would depend upon the hands of one so ... pitiable?) The voice mildly taunts Zephyr with laughter, indirectly reinforcing the Keeper’s defenses. Heated passion augments the ire in Zephyr’s eyes, as he incessantly scans the area for the voice’s owner. (Aww ... What’s wrong? Did I offend you?)
Zephyr curls and unfolds with explosive anger! “Where are you?! Answer me!”
(No need. We’ll meet, soon. Very soon.)
“... Why are you doing this to me?” Suddenly, curious whispers arise from the surrounding atmosphere, prompting the Keeper of Souls to further vary his defenses. “What’s ... that sound?”
(The Soulless. They’ve already claimed this world. It’s much too late for you to save its soul now.) From the darkness emerges Soulless Gnomes. (See? This is *their* home now.) Zephyr stands, feeling a sudden burst of guilt rush through his entire body. (Aww. No, no, no ... It’s alright. Don’t fret. You can and you *will* reclaim this world. Someday. But not today.) Then, a most curious creature makes its way through the Soulless horde. A person shrouded in foreboding blacks, contrasting whites and threatening reds. A man whose profile is hidden beneath a looming black hood, whose skin appears dark and whose smile is eerily inviting. (Hello, Zephyr. Greetings from the beyond.) This man of mystery hypnotizes Zephyr completely. Never has he seen a more majestic creature. (Aww. Those beautiful eyes. Green like jades held before a high noon’s sun. Please ... Let me drown in those gorgeous jade eyes for a spell?)
Zephyr blushes, closes his eyes and turns away, before reopening them and noticing a most heartbreaking sight ... The flower fields are withering! “... No ... Celine’s flowers ...” He kneels and cups a bud in his hands, caressing its petals with his fingers. Sadly, not even his love can save the flowers from dying. “... Celine ...” Zephyr’s unable to fight his tears. He falls back, holds his face and bawls helplessly. “... Kai ... Aisha ... Everyone ... Why has this happened!?”
(... It is fate, Zephyr.) The Keeper of Souls feels warm arms embrace him, and a hand pulling his head against something strong yet comforting. Zephyr removes his hands to behold the man, nurturing him as if he were his own. (You must embrace your destiny, no matter what. Come. Allow me the honor ... of showing you how.) The man leans in and plants a kiss on Zephyr’s forehead. (Oh. There, there. Dry those beautiful eyes. Your tears ... are defeating me.)
Zephyr blinks curiously. “Who ... are you?”
(I am ... Insidious. One of the Hearts of Pandemonium.) Zephyr’s eyes widen with shock, before he shrieks and pushes away from the confessing Heart of Chaos! This beautiful evil, Insidious, rises and laughs upon the Keeper of Souls’ trepidation. (... There is beauty in both darkness and light. Why walk one path? Why not ... embrace both? Equality. Isn't that ... what humans desire the most?) Zephyr stands, having never felt such looming, threatening air in his entire life. This man ... is not as kind as he’s letting on. (Come hither to your destiny, Zephyr.) Insidious, the Heart of Chaos, opens his arms with embracing air. (Come to me. I am waiting. Just. For. You.) This allure. This deadly attractiveness. Zephyr perceives nothing but sincerity in Insidious’s voice. A step is taken. (That’s it. Come to me.) Another step is taken, which explodes into running that is meant to confuse Insidious, as Zephyr pushes the Heart of Chaos aside and rushes into the distance! Insidious stands and laughs wholesomely. (... Oh, beautiful creature whose heart knows so little ... Run. Run. Run until your heart stops ... When darkness advents, I will be there. I promise.)
Zephyr runs. Runs. Runs to absolutely nowhere, his eyes closed, his heart racing and his emotions on high. Tears continuously escape his closed eyelids. “Somebody ... please ... answer me ...” Unfortunately, his travels are brought to an unfortunate pause, as he trips and falls flat onto his front side. “Argh!” Zephyr momentarily lays there in the dying flower fields, allowing his tears to bleed from his mourning eyes. His jade eyes filled with abundant love. “... Why was I the only one spared? How am I ... so special ... I don’t understand!” A footstep in the grass turns Zephyr’s attention to the east, where he notices an amazing sight. One that momentarily silences him. “... Kai ... is that you?” Yes. Before him stands Kai, his adopted father and parental guardian, smiling wholesomely. Zephyr stands and approaches Kai, who welcomes him with a hand atop his head. “Oh ...” Zephyr blushes sheepishly. “Kai. I ... um ...”
“... This is where the real test begins.” Kai mystifies Zephyr, before explaining himself. “I visited the Ancient’s prayer room to consult him about this storm, but ...” Kai leaves his hand from Zephyr’s head, walks forward and indirectly introduces Zephyr to a foreboding cave in the distance. “His soul had already left his body.” Zephyr is stunned by Kai’s painful words. “From the way things seemed, his soul was lost l-o-n-g before the storm, and that is why it was so easy for Chaos to claim this world—to take its soul. Hence, the Soulless have claimed Elysium as its playground.”
“... Elysium?”
“Yes, Zephyr. Elysium ... *was* the name of this world.” A brush of wind rats Kai out, as a tear escapes his right cheek. Zephyr holds his heart, having never seen Kai cry before in his entire life. The brave Priest lowers his head and closes his eyes, unable to speak for several moments. “... In his final days, I continued shaming the Ancient by slowly descending into darkness. However, in these days, I also learned the meaning of true strength. Something the Ancient neglected teaching any of his former disciples.” Zephyr lifts his head and pays close attention, as Kai turns to face his adopted son as he speaks. “... The only ‘true peace’ is ‘balance’. Light and darkness are polar opposites, but if one dies ... the other reigns supreme. Everything will be consumed. Thus, balance is everything.” Zephyr nods agreeably, fully understanding his adopted father’s wise words. “Zephyr. Pay close attention to what I’m about to say ...”
“Yes, Kai. What is it?”
“... Don’t submit to either one. Linger in darkness and you *will* lose your way. Become cold, soulless and without direction. Linger in light and you will *go blind*. You will lose all manner of reality, and wallow in the self-punishing fires of false-superiority. All must be balanced, no matter what. This ... is my *new* mission.” Zephyr nods and smiles, seeing Kai in a new light. A beautiful one. The brave Priest steps forward and gently takes his adopted son’s hands. “Before our Elysium is no more. Before all is lost, please, tell me ... Will you join your father’s mission?” The earth rumbles and shakes, robbing Zephyr of balance—so much that he falls into Kai’s arms! “Composure, son, composure.”
“... Kai! I’m ... I’m scared, Kai ...”
“So am I ...” The earth parts around them. The air becomes disastrous. Everything—everything in Elysium is falling apart, even the very fabric of existence itself. “Come with me, son. Please.” Thunder rumbles. Lightning cracks. Zephyr shrieks and clings to his adopted father, who refuses to let him go. “Don’t leave me, son. Please. Don’t leave me ... like everyone else did ...” Kai weeps but Chaos robs him of his emotions, taking his tears along with the many fragments of Elysium. “Zephyr, please … give me your answer ... now, before it’s too late, I beg of you!” Zephyr parts his lips to do just that, until ... The earth below them crumbles, and the shock forces them away from each other! “Argh! Zephyr ... no ... I won’t ...” They reach for each other, as they are separated by both space and spirit. “Son ... Don’t leave me ...”
Zephyr shakes his head, consumed by tears. “No ... I’ll never leave you ... I never have and I won’t now!” Elysium is gone. The only thing surrounding them is an endless chaotic sea, an unseen storm of emotions, and thoughts of being separated forever. A family doomed to unwanted departure. “... I ... love you ... Father ...” This time, Kai’s tears aren’t hidden—they are visible. Zephyr never said this before; confessed his familial love to Kai, who sacrificed everything just to give Zephyr some manner of life. “... I always have ... And even if we’re separated, you still have my heart ... I hope you feel the same way, father. I really do ...” So close. So very close are their fingers. “Reach ... please ... Father ...”
(No. This ... is also destiny ... for both of you.) Zephyr and Kai are shocked by Insidious’s voice, which immediately triggers a heartbreaking separation! Chaos pulls them away from each other, scattering them to unknown bounds! (Embrace your destiny, Zephyr, Kai. In the end, we are a-l-l doomed to isolation—to have nothing. But you see, destiny does not end there. For, there are those out there, in the endless sea of stars, born to help you find something. To obtain everything.) Zephyr begins feeling faint, as Insidious’s voice continues on. Despite this slow loss of consciousness, his voice is still loud and foreboding. (Ah, yes. Destiny is a curious thing; so many are ignorant towards it, no matter the caliber or origin. Release everything. Gain everything. *That* is destiny. And that destiny ... is sacred.) Zephyr knows not the time he loses in this state, swimming through Chaos. Helplessly. Not knowing if his body will ever find peace.