Forgotten Legacies Collection

Chapter 12

“How dare you? What in the name of Hades were you thinking?” Zo challenged the moment Elly"s figure appeared in the bed. She did not even pause to consider how strange it was to watch a person materialise from thin air. It wasn"t important, not now. There was only one thing on her mind and she wanted answers. Elly sat up, involuntarily squinting against the light which radiated from the angry looking silhouette standing at the bottom of her bed.

Zo, her aura alone indicating her white hot rage, banished the magic without a word. With the light removed, Elly could now clearly see her fierce figure standing with her fists clenched at her side, her eyes filled with anger as she awaited her response.

“What—” Elly rubbed her eyes swinging her legs from the bed. Before she could speak any further Zo interrupted.

“Don"t you realise how dangerous it was? Do you think if I would have known…” she lowered her voice as her friends sneaked past the door. They had been on the way to meet them but, having heard the angry tones, they knew better than to disturb them.

had“What are you talking about?” Elly stretched, glancing around the room as she seized this opportunity of silence to finish her earlier question. She asked despite knowing this outburst clearly had something to do with what that creature had told her. With Annabel"s death, there was no way to tell exactly what she knew.

“I should have known,” Zo continued as if she had not heard the question, ignoring Elly"s look of complete bewilderment as she further lowered her tone to ensure her friends would not hear. Harshly, yet quietly, she continued. “The first day we met, you called me Mari!” She turned her back to Elly to hide the tears. Saying it had been more difficult than she expected. Even the rage didn"t cushion the blow from hearing the words spoken aloud. “Did you really think you could keep something like that from me, did you think I wouldn"t find out?”

Elly stared at her in disbelief, hardly able to believe the words she had spoken. Given the change in plans it was too soon for her to know. When they had found her and there hadn"t been a trace of Marise present, the entire plan had been revised. When the time came for her to discover the truth, it should have already been too late to make a difference. The potion she had taken from Venrent was to ensure a controlled release of the memories. This complicated matters.

“Mari, I… how did you find out?” The only thing she could be thankful for was the discovery seemed detached from her memories. Zo seemed to grieve the discovery, but had no real memories of that time. At least that was one thing still in their favour.

did“The guardian told me. You know the one I created. Although it spoke in its ancient tongue, I understood its every word. Over and over it called me master. It was then I realised, the places I knew, the information I recalled, it could only mean one thing.

I“I"m a fool for not realising sooner. Then again, who would want discover they are, now how did Daniel put it? Oh yes, a bloodthirsty murderer!” she spat. Although her words were only quiet, the anger behind them made even Elly flinch. She had known at the time those words would come back to haunt them. “Why was it you came to me really, was I even in any real danger, or was it all just staged to get my cooperation, you came to take me back didn"t you? You came so you could hand me over to your father.”

Zo didn"t understand anything, her mind raced with doubts and fears. How could she, the person who had dedicated her life to healing, become a ruthless assassin, just what had happened during those years of darkness, what had she become?

It was confusing. She wanted to believe it to be nothing more than a lie, but she knew the truth, and no amount of denial could change it. All those times she had asked to remember something of her past, all the time she had spent trying to recall the simplest thing, she had also been afraid of what the darkness concealed. Now she knew the name of the monster who lurked there she feared, more than anything, that she would become the very thing she despised the most. If that was who she was back then, who she had really become, what could she do to stop it? Surely it was only a matter of time before her old self returned, then what would happen to her friends, would she even remember them, or would they be erased like her memories of her time as that killer?

“Not you—” Elly covered her mouth realising what she had said. She had been caught off guard. She cursed her idiocy as Zo"s posture stiffened, those two words had revealed Elly"s true purpose, she turned to leave. “No, wait, you do not understand,” she called after her.

Elly cursed under her breath, she hadn"t been prepared for this. Initially she had expected, as had been planned, that Marise would awaken and return the Zo persona only when her services were required. She knew it was going to be tricky to keep her plans a secret, especially since Zo"s friends had accompanied them, but there had been no reason for her to learn the truth, not yet. She was going to vanish again soon anyway, things couldn"t have gone worse.

“Oh, I understand perfectly.” Zo spoke quietly, not looking back as she stopped briefly at the door.

“I was not—” The slamming door halted the need for further words. She waited, listening to the hurried steps down the stairs. Once she was certain of her privacy her hand gripped her gossip crystal. Time was short. Zo"s next actions were unpredictable, but there was something she needed to do before she could smooth this over.

There was a very real danger her reaction to this discovery could rush her own extinction. There was possibly still an option open to them. She just had to confirm its viability.

Zo stormed down the stairs, a strange hollow feeling rising in the pit of her stomach. She just wanted to get away, to leave it all behind. Back then, during the time she had forgotten, she had taken the lives of countless people. As she thought about the dark void of her past, for the first time, she was glad she couldn"t remember it, glad she still recalled no more than before. She questioned how it could it have happened. Despite her difficulties, she had led a good life. She had even been accepted into a renowned school of the artes, although, from what she could remember, she had been the only student there.

hadShe frowned intently willing herself to remember more, how could she possibly be a bloodthirsty murderer? No, it was wrong, it had to be a mistake, but even she couldn"t bring herself to accept this wishful lie. Just what was going on, and what was this strange feeling in the back of her mind since discovering the truth? Something hidden in the darkest recess of her mind stirred. It seemed to offer to take her away from the pain, and all she had to do was surrender.

“Zo are you okay, what"s happened?” Daniel stepped before her, placing his hands on her shoulders. Suddenly she became aware of her friends, aware that since she had joined them, she had simply paced back and forth along the side of the table, trying to make sense of the new thoughts and questions which stampeded through her mind.

They were thoughts which made her feel physically sick, in fact, she wasn"t sure how she had managed to remain calm. Then again, she was certain she didn"t seem calm to anyone else, but this was as composed as she could force herself to be as she realised the true meaning behind this revelation. Just how many people had she killed? Eiji had said an entire town, and before that, after that? She felt the room closing in around her as icy cold waves washed over her and stole her breath. She needed to get out of there.

She looked up to Daniel, his firm grip on her preventing her retreat. Until then her sole focus had been on her hands as she paced, wondering how many lives they had taken, questioning how many lives she was responsible for destroying. She felt like she needed him more than ever, but he couldn"t make the truth any less real.

This discovery meant her friends were in danger, not just from the journey, but from her. They had to leave. Regardless of what their absence would mean for her, they had to be safe. She needed to distance herself from them, while she still thought about them as her friends, and not as her next target. Already her mind overflowed with repulsive thoughts about what Marise—no she—would do to them. She loved them more than anything. They gave her strength, courage, and their safety was all that mattered.

they“I want you both to go back home. I"m leaving now, and you do not want to follow me.” Her voice had failed her the first time she had tried to speak, stopped by the constriction in her throat which made it hard to swallow let alone breathe. When her voice finally came it was cold, her vision already focusing on the door which led to her escape.

notShe needed to leave immediately, to get away from them all and ensure they couldn"t follow. She was a danger, a menace, but where could she run? Through her panic there was still one clear, calm, thought which demanded her attention. A voice impossible to ignore as it offered her the solution. It would take away her distress, her problems, all she needed to do was stop fighting.

“But Zo.” As he looked at her, the turmoil which shadowed her eyes sent a shiver down his spine, but that was not all he saw. She looked terrified beyond anything he had seen. This was clearly serious, he questioned why she no longer felt she could confide in him. He challenged her gaze in the hope she would surrender some information. It normally worked, she felt uncomfortable being confronted, but he knew something about this time was different. She could barely breathe, barely hold herself together, but she did not break his stare.

“What"s goin" on?” Eiji walked in from the kitchen to see them locked in eye contact, both breaking their gaze as he approached to place some toast, along with a jug of water, on the table. Moving away he caught a closer look at her, his stomach sank. She was drained of colour except for her red flushed cheeks. From her expression alone it was painfully clear what was happening. She looked so delicate, afraid, and confused. Somehow, she had discovered the truth.

“Maybe you should ask your partner, or better yet split company before she betrays you too.” As Zo spoke, she slung her satchel over her shoulder, her backpack already resting on the other as she hurried towards the door. It was strange, she thought as she felt the cool metal of the door handle in her grasp, she didn"t even remember picking them up. The world around her seemed to move in and out of focus with each, she needed air, solitude. She had to leave, now.

“You can"t just leave. What about Darrienia?” That wasn"t exactly what Acha had wanted to say. She wanted to ask why, to ask what had happened, anything to prevent her from leaving, but given her state of mind this seemed like the only thing that may have delayed her. Her only response was the sound of the door as it closed behind her. Daniel moved in pursuit, but was stopped once more by Elly; she always seemed to get in the way.

A hand grabbed her as she walked towards the exit she had chosen. It fastened around her arm, pulling her gently into a side street. The owner was lucky to still be in possession of it. Something about her had changed since she left the inn. Her hair shone a vivid red reflecting the anger within her soul, her eyes bore menacingly into the stranger.

“Zoella,” the young man whispered, but he knew immediately she was not the person he addressed. She was different from the image he had seen, this was not his Zo. Her aura, her posture, everything about her was different to the girl he had welcomed into his home. She glanced down at the hand which still gripped her arm, before looking at the brown-haired youth it belonged to.

He was older than her, yet now, it seemed only by a few years. He possessed a build suitable for a soldier within Blackwood"s army. It was his old grey eyes which betrayed his age, within them there was so much knowledge. The eyes never lied and at this moment they showed this man was afraid, she could see it clearly. She smiled at him feeling his hand begin to tremble upon her arm. Nearby the cheers from a tavern could be heard, it seemed something was happening there which gripped the attention of all who passed by.

“I know who you are,” he whispered, suddenly realising his actions had been foolish. What had he truly hoped to achieve by confronting her? It was clearly already too late.

“Then, might I suggest you remove that hand before I take the liberty myself?” His hand moved at a lightning speed as she gave her warning. Hearing her speak he knew there was no resemblance to the girl he had addressed before, or the gentle nature of the young lady who had been portrayed in the picture Night had shown him. Not only did this girl"s hair shine a brilliant red, her brown lowlights were nearly lost in the vibrant shades. Her eyes were not the blue the image had portrayed, but a deep sea-green, they reflected the very nature of her essence, beautiful but deadly, and right now they were filled with hate and bloodlust. “Now old man, tell me where to find Night?”

“What makes you think—” before he could finish his question, her sword was drawn and pressed against his throat, pinning him against the wall with a speed even the Gods would be challenged to meet.

“You reek of his magic old man, just as your house did when she stopped by. Now tell me where to find him, or you will not have time to enjoy your bargained youth.” He felt the sword"s pressure increase as a warm trickle of blood ran down his neck.

she“I don"t know. I swear. He approached from the shadows. He contacted me, I do not know.” Her posture stiffened slightly, aware someone watched them. She knew if she were to look she would see a person in brightly dressed attire standing at the edge of the side street, paralysed as he watched. She knew this man, and thus knew exactly where his next point of call would be. He would report to Elly, someone she did not care to face at this moment. The man found the courage to move and, despite his size, he did so very quickly.

“You are lucky this time.” She glanced to the street where the figure had stood. “Breathe a word of this to anyone and you will wish I had killed you. I am sure Night has his own plan for you. Can you feel them?” she taunted, a wicked smile turned up the corners of her almost pouting lips. “They are watching you, old man,” she stated coldly, removing her sword as she threw him to the floor, smiling as he scrabbled in the dirt to retreat at speed.

hadShe turned her back on him. The man who had seen her posed no threat to her, neither of them did, but she did not want to confront Elly, not until she had collected her thoughts. She had to decide how exactly they would meet, as friends, or as enemies, but even still, she would keep their promise. There would be no death within these walls.

“I thought you said there would be no trouble!” The inn door flew open as their time within expired. Elly welcomed him with a smile as the door slammed closed behind him. His bright clothes were drenched with sweat as he gasped for breath, his rounded face was almost as bright as his top.

“Whatever do you mean?” Elly asked; her tone alone implied she had more of an idea than she wished to let on, again a smile crossed her lips. She looked towards the dining room. Although the door was tightly closed, she knew just on the other side sat two people oblivious to the identity of their friend. She couldn"t help but wonder when they too would connect the pieces of the puzzle like Zo had this very morning.

“I just saw her outside, her sword to some poor youth"s throat! We agreed this place would remain free from her deeds, that while she was here no harm would come to those within these walls,” he spat.

Daniel, knowing something was wrong, stood cautiously by the door listening to the hushed tones of conversations. He glanced across at Acha and Eiji, they seemed unaware the event was even transpiring as they began to eat the toast which had been prepared just moments ago. As he caught snippets of the hushed conversation, he grew more concerned. The scene he had just described did not sound like his friend at all. She was always so calm, so pleasant. She never lost her temper even when things were at their worst, although recently there was no denying there had been a change. It was true, it seemed she was quicker to anger, but even so, to threaten another"s life was definitely not something she would do, not unless it was in her own, or someone else"s, defence. Even then, he had serious doubts she would have the conviction to make true her threat.

“Is he dead?” The question alone made Daniel"s stomach churn, why would she ask something like that so calmly? As if that wasn"t disturbing enough, what she said next really alarmed him.

“No, but—”

“Then count your blessings.” Daniel, unable to just stand and listen any longer opened the door, the conversation fell silent as he did so. Without a pause, he walked to Elly, determination filled his eyes as he stood just inches away from her. If this was his friend they talked about, it was time he was told exactly what this was all about.

“What is going on Elaineor?” He demanded. Although his words had been perfectly clear they ignored him completely, Elly simply sidestepped around him.

What“I can"t believe I let you bring her here.”

“Which way did she go?” Elly handed him a roll of additional funds. As the comforting weight of notes fell firmly in his hand, the concern instantly left his face to be replaced by the mercenary smile he was known for.

“It looked like she was heading towards Tran-gin Street.” He flicked the money past his ear before he breathed in its scent; all signs of his previous distress had now vanished.

“Thank you.” Elly walked towards the exit, it seemed she too would leave them behind. Acha and Eiji now stood at the dining room entrance with the distinct feeling they had missed the crucial points of an important conversation. “Daniel, Acha, do you not have some place to be?” She had heard all too well exactly what Zo had requested of them. At least now Zo had decided to travel without them she no longer had to design a method for their departure.

“Exactly what did you two argue about?” Daniel walked a little closer to Elly and managed to position himself between her and the door to seal her escape. This was not a subject he was about to drop at her request.

“I believe she told you to go home, and that is all you need to know.” She glanced at Eiji, “I shall meet with you later.” She quickly scrawled something on a piece of paper from the inn"s desk, before handing it to him. It contained a street name and directions. “I will meet you there.”

you“But even if they do go home, there"s Darrienia t"contend with.” Daniel and Acha looked at Elly hopefully as Eiji fought for them, but her reluctance to travel with them initially meant, without Zo, it was hopeless. The only reason they had been allowed to accompany them had been because it was what Zo had wanted. Now she had requested them to leave, there was no reason for Elly to entertain the notion of allowing them to continue this adventure further.

“No. They need to go home. It is far too dangerous for them to come any further.” As Elly opened the door, she glanced back at them, Daniel suddenly wondered how she had moved past him without his noticing. “The rune branding which allows you to access Darrienia only works if the symbol is accurate, draw on it. You are no longer my concern.”

“Then I suppose I"ll accompany them,” Eiji stated as he looked again at the paper, he felt almost envious of them, they were being offered an escape, something he so desperately desired. He wondered if this was his chance to leave it all behind, to escape, but he knew such fortune was not within his foreseeable future. The looks they already directed towards him betrayed that much. She nodded in response to his query as she left. Even with his eyes still fixed on the door he was painfully aware of the growing intensity of their stares. He didn"t want to turn to face them.

“So where exactly is Tran-gin Street?” Acha crossed her arms as she moved to stand between him and the door.

“All y" need t"know is y" not goin" that way, anythin" else is not y" concern.” He sighed, he knew there was no way they would go willingly, nor was there any way he could force them to do so, he gave another pained sigh. “I"d give anything t"be offered a way out, if y" knew what I do, y"d understand and accept this chance while y" can,” he stated. He had to at least try to get them to return.

“Is Zo in some kind of danger?” Daniel questioned from behind him, as Eiji turned to face him Acha subtly removed one of her gloves.

“Y" could put it that way.” He wanted to tell them everything, to explain what was going on. It was clear these people cared for her, but it was not something his honour would permit. He knew that if he could explain, perhaps they would not be so quick to follow. Perhaps they would take the chance of escape which had been offered to them. Then again, he found he too had begun to grow fond of the former assassin. It was a realisation which surprised even him. Perhaps he wasn"t as intent on leaving them as he believed. The person he had been so afraid of was human, just like him, and it seemed she wanted nothing more than to walk the path of light. She would rather heal than harm. He couldn"t understand it, but he knew the situation was complicated, and he feared what the self-ordered solitude from her friends would mean.

“And you"re taking us home?” Daniel nodded to Acha, who reached out to touch him. There was no way he was going to stop them finding their friend.

“I never said that.” He turned quickly to grab her sleeved arm. She looked to him in surprise as he gave her a cautionary stare before thrusting her arm away. Regaining her footing, she watched him carefully, shock lining her features. He had always seemed so clumsy and awkward, she was amazed he had seen through their ploy, but what had startled her more, is that somehow he seemed to be aware of her unique capabilities. “I said y" not goin" that way, not why don"t y" try t"kill me! I know a shortcut, remember?” He waved the piece of paper at them in annoyance before placing the keys on the innkeeper"s counter, watching as he meticulously counted them. “But y" hafta be sure y" want t"come, y" hafta be committed t"saving her, t"being there for her, regardless of what happens. If y" not, then y" may as well leave right now.

“This will be the only chance y" have of turnin" back, if y" come with me, y" may be in great danger, y" may get hurt, or worse.” Eiji suddenly realised as he spoke, that at one point, despite his fear of death and his mind looking for an opportunity to escape, he was, in fact, determined to save her.

“All the more reason to go with you. Whatever is happening, we can"t let Zo go through it alone. She needs her friends,” Daniel stated.

“So what exactly is going on?” Daniel demanded. He had given Eiji a few seconds of peace as they had left the inn, but since they had stepped onto the streets of Collateral, he had bombarded him with questions. “Elly clearly knows more than she reveals, what"s this danger, why does Zo need saving?” It seemed Elly would never give them any information. Since she was no longer with them, at least she would be to unable prevent any being relayed, so Daniel had decided to move his focus onto Eiji. It now seemed more vital than ever he was given some answers. It seemed Eiji didn"t deliberately hide things from them, and since he had travelled with Elly before meeting them, he believed he also held at least some of the information they needed.

“It"s really not my place t"say.” Eiji glanced at the street names before matching one with the name on the scrap of paper. He had successfully sidestepped this conversation for some time now, but they were persistent. Despite his many obvious attempts to avoid the subject, they continued their interrogation.

“Is it something to do with what they were fighting about earlier?” Daniel was certain he could be of more help if he understood the situation better.

“Possibly, it was bound t"happen sooner or later.” Eiji paused; he had to give them something, if only to give himself a few minutes of relief, something which told them nothing they didn"t already know. “After all, Elly knows about her past, it must be frustratin". There"s bound t"be some tension between them, especially when Zo discovers somethin" she feels it was her right t"know all along.” Eiji cursed silently; he had done so well, but he had just gone one step too far.

“And what"s that?” Daniel prompted before experiencing the strange feeling of displacement as they passed through Collateral"s boundaries.

Their footing became instantly impaired as they found themselves knee-deep in brambly undergrowth. They fought their way from the forest"s boundaries towards the unknown terrain which stretched before them. Eiji glanced around, surprisingly, he knew exactly where they were. Large thickets obstructed their view of all which lay before them. Now, more than ever, he felt the need for caution.

“Be careful here, follow my steps exactly. We will soon be enterin" the Quakin" Bog, it"s the home t"many a wild beast. My master told me great tales of the creatures he encountered in the peat burial grounds.” Eiji had hoped Daniel would show interest in the distraction he offered, he was sorely disappointed.

The land underfoot began to moisten as the thickets gave way to the scenic view of the marshlands. Some of the waters appeared clear, the surrounding areas were filled with an array of coloured heather. Other areas were awash with greenery, a shade which concealed other bodies of water covered with sphagnum moss. Fortunately, the more dangerous areas of the terrain had carefully placed board-walks to guide those walking these grounds. Eiji hesitantly led the way, carefully feeling for any movement of the sodden terrain beneath his feet.

“You know as well, don"t you?” Acha ignored Eiji"s blatant attempt at distracting them, and, with a Daniel-like persistence, pushed it further. Eiji"s response was delayed as he focused his attention on the dangers of the environment. He was certain they should have reached the planking by now. He glanced around before looking to his compass, they were still on the correct bearings.

“Please don"t ask me anymore. I won"t betray her trust.” Too much relied on him keeping this secret. He knew it would destroy her if they found out before she was ready.

“You"re referring to Elly?” Daniel scoffed, although he admired Eiji"s virtues, he wished for once he would be given a clear answer. He knew they would get no further information from him, not deliberately anyway, but they had to try. They needed to understand more about the situation, and with each passing minute their concerns only grew about the danger they had found themselves in. Annoyingly, Eiji remained true to his word, which was just one of the many things which made him so honourable, but at present it was such an annoying virtue.

“That"s all I"m sayin". Just because I know what"s happenin" doesn"t give me the right t"tell you. It"s not my place,” he enforced as they continued walking. For a moment there was silence; it was short lived as Daniel spoke again. Eiji froze, feeling the earth beside him trembling, he adjusted his course carefully.

“Yet you found out about it from Elly, right?” Daniel couldn"t help but feel infuriated. A complete stranger knew more about his best friend than he, or she herself knew. He had to know, he had to understand. He needed to be there for her when she needed him, to offer her comfort. At the inn she had needed his support, but she refused to confide in him. Her need to distance herself from them showed the extent of her concern, her desire to protect them from whatever it was she had discovered, from something she thought could endanger them.

“I didn"t ask, I was told. Then I was given a choice, t"live or t"die.” He gave a sigh before he quickly glanced around the area, something about this didn"t feel quite right. First there were the missing board-walks, then the quaking of the ground. The route chosen had been specifically planned to avoid such dangers. It should have led them through the firmest, safest, parts, to the open plain. Something about this wasn"t right at all. He looked before him seeing the trembling movements of the trees which should have marked the start of the plain, how could this land have altered so drastically? He closed his eyes for a second, his mind"s eye remapping the safest path before he began to lead them once more.

“And yet you refuse to tell us? She threatened your life, yet you still protect her!” But his frustration met only with silence, it was a silence which stilled the need for questions as Eiji"s posture stiffened before them. His concerned gaze looked out across the expanse of water which stretched before them. They were almost free from the confines of the bog, but his guiding steps had not stopped in relief. As he surveyed the area before him, he knew his initial concerns had been founded. There should have been board-walks. They were not lost, they were exactly on course, if not for the constant barrage of questions, perhaps he would have noticed sooner.

Small broken fragments of rotten wood lay embedded in the muddy terrain as the twisted clawed foothold told tales of being forcefully removed. Someone, or something, had wanted to ensure the route was no longer welcoming to travellers.

There was little choice but to wade through the putrid waters, and they were already tired from the difficulty of the walk. The water looked anything but inviting. Its dark, stagnant, scum-covered surface broken by numerous patches of debris. Thick rotting wood, vines, and moss all intertwined as if part of some enormous natural tapestry crafted by the hands of the Gods themselves. Somehow there seemed a strange order to the mangled chaos. The protruding footholds snagged the debris, allowing the water, where the walkway would have once stood, a small release from its stifling embrace.

“What"s wrong?” Daniel whispered, adhering to the new atmosphere brought on by Eiji"s alarmed halt.

“There should"a been board-walks,” his voice trembled slightly. “Whatever did this surely can"t be natural.” He motioned across the tangled waters, bringing their attention to the shredded footings which once would have supported the path across to the plain.

“We"re going through, aren"t we?” Acha questioned fearfully looking across the water. She wasn"t quite sure how to broach the topic of her being unable to swim. It was a skill she had never learnt, one she had never needed during her youth.

“It should be relatively safe,” Eiji advised reassuringly, his eyes closed as if in concentration. “The board-walk crossed the shallowest terrain, from what I can tell, it"ll be tirin", but we shouldn"t need t"swim. I"ll go first, stay close, off the walkway the waters are deep.” Without further delay Eiji slowly began the gradual descent.

It was as he predicted, each step took its toll as the sucking mud restricted their every movement. Looking back, he saw Acha, her steps cautious, fearful, as her hands went from foothold to foothold as if to guide her steps. It was a slow, tedious journey filled with not only the reeking odours from the decaying waters, but the stifling air of silence. Acha found she gripped each wooden lifeline harder than the last as the tepid waters rose to her waist. They weren"t even half way across yet, if it rose much deeper, she would find walking in these conditions impossible. Her breath shallowed as panic began to rise like the surrounding waters.

“It won"t get any deeper now.” Eiji finally spoke as they almost reached the midway point. Audible to all, Acha let out a sigh of relief, her death-like grip on the splintered wood released ever so slightly.

For a moment she felt the pull of a current in what had been otherwise stagnant water. Her stomach lurched as she gripped against its pull mere moments before the bog rose. Water exploded around her filling her calming breath with the familiar gasps of panic as a rush of fluid from behind threatened to pull her under. She screamed as Eiji turned to see Daniel disappearing into the stagnant depths. Lunging forwards Eiji grabbed her arm as she reached out towards the vanishing figure.

“Stay here!” he commanded, diving into the waters from their path.

Acha stood alone. The stillness of the lake was almost eerie as not a single wave disrupted its surface. She stood in paralysed horror. There was nothing she could do but watch over the vast expanse.

The town of Kerõs was a private place, an area which enjoyed its seclusion. Given its unique heritage it did not welcome outsiders, nor did they approve of having an access point to Collateral within such close proximity to their carefully concealed town. There were all manner of wards and deterrents erected to prevent those emerging from the portal, as Elly had just moments ago, from locating them through the forest"s maze. Fortunately, for those who would like to believe their wards repelled all, Elly had no interest in visiting the ancient town.

She navigated the forest with ease. Her stride, although filled with purpose, showed signs of hesitation. She had been anticipating this moment for so long, she had envisioned all manner of scenarios which would result from their meeting. Scenarios ranging from the rekindling of kinship to a confrontation of epic proportions. Even she could not predict how her actions would tempt Marise"s mood. Her pace slowed further as she neared her destination, the place where the assassin sat awaiting her.

“I knew you would come, Lee.” Elly heard the familiar mannerisms before the figure even came into view. Elly took a moment to look upon her. Despite being aware of her presence, Marise did not turn to face her, she simply continued to stare out over the rise and fall of the hilly plain which stretched before her from the edge of the small forest. This did not bode well. Marise"s vivid red hair blew wildly, free from its constraints as she sat on the grass, leaning back on her arms.

“Mari.” Seeing her so clearly once more spurred her step as she hastened to approach. As she neared her, Marise turned slightly, her green eyes piercing her with a fierce resentment as they met for the first time in over a year. The gaze was enough to once more bring caution to Elly"s approach. Her advance faltered. If possible, she did not want to engage her. There would be no victors in such conflict. They remained steadfast, neither averting their gaze until finally Marise"s eyes softened before she once more turned to take in the lay of the land.

“Has much changed since I was banished?” she questioned bitterly, she leaned back further, tilting her vision skyward. It had been so long since she had seen light or felt the warmth of the sun.

“Very little.” Moving to sit beside her, Elly found herself casting repeated glances in her direction. Despite the uncertainty of the situation, she was relieved to see her once more.

“Of all the people to betray me, I did not think it would be you. I would cut you down here, if I thought I could win. It is always unpredictable with you.” Marise fingered the hilt of her sword gently while she contemplated her next move. Normally, she would not hesitate to strike down those who betrayed her, but this was Elly, it was different.

“Why do you say that?” Elly touched the pocket of her trousers, it was a gesture Marise was familiar with. She was ensuring she had the means to defend herself.

“Zoella. You assisted her return did you not? It took so long for me to completely seal her away and then you brought her back. Well over a year has passed since then. I want to believe you had the best intentions. Well?” she questioned harshly.

“Mari, you have to understand, there are so many reasons I did what I did. I saw her shadow within your eyes, she would cause you to hesitate. Because of her that boy lived, because of her the Elementalist walked. Aburamushi, who you created, was sealed by a guardian to protect the innocent. Blackwood noticed these things too, action was required.”

“And the real reason?” Elly smiled giving a shrug. She had hoped the need for an explanation wouldn"t be required, it was unclear how much information Zo would subconsciously retain.

“The initial order came from much higher. I think it was part of his plan, to seize the final Grimoire, remember only one pure of heart and such. Things needed to fall into place, but my previous comment still holds true.” She extended her hand, touching Marise"s hair affectionately. “I was concerned for you.” She moved slightly closer as she continued to talk. “I followed Night"s instruction. I knew nothing of the methods, nor how it had affected you until I met her.

“Once administered, I was committed to the act. I was forbidden from even observing you until the time came for us to meet once more.” She spoke softly, regret clear in her normally controlled tones. “I am sorry, I understand your anger. My betrayal was on the deepest level imaginable.” Marise looked to her in surprise. Elly was not one to offer apologies. Her actions were always well considered, making such regrets unwarranted. “Are you aware of all that transpires?”

“In some respects. Zoella still uses me to repress her fears, in her heart she knows something terrible has happened.” Marise gave a wicked grin. “Her sleep is plagued with nightmares. Sometimes she will see something which reminds her of events from the past, although before she can recall them, her need for self-preservation prevents it. I see much through such a window.

“But Daniel, that boy to me is a complete mystery. He is protected from my view, and while they are together, even in distress, she knows comfort. I know his name but little more. He is what makes my return so difficult. Her friendship with him is strong. I feel her within me now, thinking of the harsh words she spoke, unaware I am even here, unaware I have taken control.

“I am not truly sure what happens to me when I am not in control, but during my reign it was as if she was never there. I could not feel her as I can now.”

“That will be rectified when we find the final tome. It seems Night provided us with a distraction, ultimately I think it will serve some purpose in his quest, or else he would not have gone to such lengths. Do you know that she released Aburamushi?”

“I let him leave. I also felt him grow in power. Tell me are you going there now to undo what I did?” As they had fled from the guardian in Aburamushi"s lair, for just a brief second, as Zo had drawn the sword, Marise had managed to release the weakened seal, shattering the door before Zo had been given chance to strike. It was the second time she had managed to influence her actions without her knowledge, both times had been when she had drawn her weapon.

I“It would break one of the seals, I feel that is his plan, to weaken that which our ancestors constructed.” A long time ago the magic Marise had cast there had fortified that which had created one of the ancient seals. By reversing her actions, now the rune had been removed, one of the seals would fail as the remaining magic was banished.

“Speaking of troublesome obstacles.” Marise raised an eyebrow meaningfully. “I am thinking it would be better to remove three annoying ones.”

“That is a little premature, besides, Eiji is under my protection.” She was certain even now Eiji brought the ones who challenged her patience towards this very location. She would be surprised if somehow he had managed to convince them to abandon their friend, but she had needed time with Marise to resolve matters. “I am sure they will have their uses, if only to ensure things stay on course.”

“When this is over…”

“You have my word you may do whatever you wish to them.” Elly took Marise"s hand in hers for the briefest moment, certain the lies she had spoken remained undetected. “It is a fitting reward for the sacrifices you have made.”

Eiji"s form broke the water"s surface, once more bringing chaos to the surroundings. Dragged with him, securely trapped within his grasp, flailed Daniel"s gasping figure.

“Go!” Eiji screamed in Acha"s direction as he began desperately to swim towards the plains, pulling Daniel behind him. The waters around them swelled and bulged as the surface debris began to rise in pursuit. The entangled flotsam pulsed and lurched, as from beneath it emerged the fleshless skull of a creature so foul it could still the breath. Its hooked nose acting as sight to hone in on its targeted prey. The water-weathered muscle, intermingled with bone, was covered in the bog"s scum and moss as the beast within wore the coating of its nest like a skin. Its long fingers and refined claws easily spanned the length of its forearm, visible only as its long limbs broke through the water. The balding chunks of white hair, which splayed from the creature"s skull, moved quickly with its rapid movements as it traversed the thick water with ease, unhindered by the masses of moving detritus attached to its back. It was unclear if this tangled mass was a living extension of the hag-like creature, or something animated by her touch.

Acha"s panicked steps seemed to sink deeper, her pace restricted by the surrounding water as she fought desperately to follow the footholds. Concerns of drowning were no longer at the forefront of her mind, pushed aside by the horror they now faced.

Eiji gasped for breath, his gaze fixed firmly on the pursuing monstrosity, glancing only towards the land to ensure he remained on course. More movement swelled from beneath the surface as Eiji called upon the tangled bramble below to ensnare it, slowing its pace, if just for a moment. The water between him and the shore began to part. He turned, swinging Daniel to rest upon his back as he found his footing on the sodden terrain. Water crashed behind him as he focused all his energy, all his skills, on manipulating the creature"s natural environment to aid his escape. The ground became firm, heated, beneath his steps.

The creature, accepting their imminent escape, turned its focus to the one remaining still within its domain. Eiji, reaching the land, dropped Daniel to the ground as the creature sped across the waters towards the former board-walk. Acha"s steps froze as the blur of rapid movement sped towards her, she released a scream. A wave of water rose up slamming the creature to one side.

“Move!” Eiji yelled forcing another crashing wave before the creature"s path. It howled as the jagged splints of wood pierced its unyielding form. More bramble rose trying to restrain it as wave upon wave of water disrupted its path. Roots broke through the surface, weaving a solid path beneath Acha"s feet as she sprinted, clawing her way to the safety of the solid plain.

She collapsed on the grassy fields as Eiji sunk to his knees gasping for breath, his vision once more focused over the bog. The now still water reflected just the smallest glint of light as the soothing spread of coloured heather painted the landscape. The scene was so still, so tranquil they could have been simply observing a freshly painted canvas, still standing upon the artist"s easel.

“Daniel, are you all right?” Acha now crouched over him, examining his injuries. It was as she had feared, they were serious. The events of just moments ago seemed surreal against the calmness of their surroundings. Daniel gasped in pain as he lay on his back, paralysed, as the growing patch of blood quickly began to stain his torn linen shirt.

“The town of Kerõs isn"t far. I was t"meet Elly near there. Keep an eye on him, I"ll get help.” The urgency in Eiji"s voice was unmistakable as he looked at the three enormous, gaping s***h marks across Daniel"s chest. The wounds seemed to pulsate as they bled heavily. If they didn"t stop the bleeding soon it would be fatal. The double-edged blade of shock was their only ally, if not for it slowing his blood flow things would already be far worse. “Keep pressure on it,” he called as he began to sprint. He hesitated for a moment removing his dagger from his boot and throwing it in Acha"s direction. Although it seemed the danger had passed, it was not wise to leave them unarmed. She grabbed it quickly, tucking it into her belt carefully.

“Please hurry,” Acha whispered, pressing the cleaner parts of her cloak against Daniel"s wounds.

Marise gasped, her hand shooting to her chest and freezing her words. As she blinked, her eyes changed before Elly"s concerned vision.

“Daniel,” Zo gasped in shock, glancing around like a startled animal as she tried to take in her unfamiliar surroundings. Although her link to Acha had all but faded, she felt her distress clearly. “Where"s Daniel?” she almost shouted. Her hand gripped Elly"s arm tightly, any concerns about her whereabouts slipping from her mind as if they had never even arisen. She didn"t care where they sat, she just knew her friends were in danger.

“What—” Elly began to question. She had been in mid-conversation with Marise then suddenly, out of nowhere, she appeared and took control. To say she was surprised was not an understatement. Elly didn"t have time to finish her sentence before Eiji"s desperate tones attracted their attention.

she“Elly… thank the Gods,” he gasped, barely able to speak between breaths. “It"s Daniel… he"s hurt.” He leaned over, placing his hands on his knees, gasping for breath as Elly looked to Zo.

“How did you—” Elly stopped as she realised to question things would only raise suspicion on the situation. Marise was right, the group were trouble. The bond they shared challenged her ability to retain control.

“Eiji, tell me what happened?” Zo demanded, her voice filled with fear. When he didn"t answer she pressed further, not realising his desperate gasps for breath hindered his ability to speak. “Where is he, where"s Daniel?” Eiji sucked in another deep breath, each one becoming slightly more controlled until finally he could force the words.

“Over the brow… need a healer… there isn"t much time,” he panted, as he had answered Zo sprinted off in the direction he had appeared from, putting trust in her senses to lead her.

“How peculiar,” Elly mused as she watched her figure vanish over the hill.

“What?”

“Never mind, we should go after her.” She glanced over Eiji"s sodden figure, sliding her fingernail down his flesh to remove a few of the leeches which had attached themselves to him before she began to walk away. Unlike Zo, there was nothing rushed about her pace.

“We need t"get a healer! Kerõs is close,” Eiji protested. Daniel"s injuries were severe. Even if Zo reached him in time, perhaps she could ease his suffering, but Hectarians could only use one type of magic or the other, remedial or damaging, and from what he knew of Marise he knew where her affinity would lie. To treat Daniel, they would need someone of remarkable talent, even then, they would have to trust his fate to the compassion of the Gods.

“There is no point,” Elly stated coldly. The town of Kerõs, although close, would not welcome outsiders, besides, she had no intention of wasting her time helping him to find his way there.

“If we hurry, we could make it back before…” Eiji pleaded realising Elly had no intention of turning back. He stared after her, his posture clearly displaying his disbelief. Elly turned back clicking her fingers.

“Follow.”