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Katana bit his lip at the entrance. He and his little brother Broker waited eagerly for their parents to return home. The wind was starting to get more wild, and more sand was starting to kick up around the temple. The city gates creaked and groaned with each gust. Broker even had to cover his one good eye at some point. Katana continued to tough it out and stare at the horizon. About a month ago, their parents had taken a trip to the Spawn Fountain. He had heard them say something about Broker not being a good enough replacement. There was so much unfairness in this cult. Broker wasn’t strong, but he was smart. Of course, the only thing their parents wanted was a sufficient heir. And unfortunately, Katana fit their ideal mold. He was only ten for gods sake. And yet here he was, trying to fit his parent’s expectations.
The winds picked up again. Sand blew in the brothers’ faces. “You should go back in.” Katana looked at Broker. “I can keep watching a little longer.”“You sure?” The smaller demon looked back at him. “I don’t mind staying out.” The wind picked up speeds, and Katana looked back out at the horizon. Two figures were starting to peek through the storm. Broker jumped up, a large smile on his face. “They’re alive!” He went to hug Katana, who pushed him away.“Of course they’re alive. Our parents aren’t stupid.” He huffed. “Go inside Broker. I’m sure they’ll show you our new brother later.”
Broker nodded, a little dejected. But he complied and scampered off into the Temple.
Their parents came up to the gates. Katana did a slight bow. “I hope your travels went well.”“They were fine.” His father pushed past them. Katana looked up at his mother, a bundle of fabric was held in her arms.“His name?” Katana pointed at the bundle.“Her name.” His mother corrected. “Is Scythe.”Oh, that explained a lot. The disappointed look on their faces, the held back body language. They got a daughter, not a son. “I can take her if you want to rest.” Katana offered. He would rather not see his new sister beaten up on her first few days home.“Please.” She handed the baby off to Katana. Then, she quickly ran off into the temple. Katana stood awkwardly outside for a few seconds longer. He calmly walked inside, sister in his arms.
Scythe was an interesting baby. But in a good way. Since Katana knew his parents would probably barely ever touch her, he took it upon himself to care for the spawn. He would play with her when he had the chance. Sometimes even Broker joined in. As the years went by, Scythe proved herself to be a force. She was agile, and able to scale walls quickly and quietly. Katana didn’t even know where she was half the time anymore. Scythe was a menace, and the whole cult knew it.
-----------------------------------------------“KATANA!” His father’s voice rang through the air. Katana quickly ran to the source.“What is it, father?” He opened the door, seeing Scythe in the room. His father, Silver King, was standing tall. He had a hand grasped on Scythe’s shoulder.“I was thinking,” He took his hand off and walked closer to Katana. “You’ll need to learn how to perform Eye Opening ceremonies soon.” He looked back to Scythe. “And this one’s big day is coming up next month.”“I take it she passed?” Katana whispered. He had tried to prepare his sister for the test as best he could, knowing their parents might try and rig it.“Unfortunately…” Silver King grumbled. His long green robe dragged on the floor as he paced around. Scythe watched curiously. She knew what an Eye Opening ceremony was. They seemed so special. It was a coming of age, proving your worth. Once you’re 14, you are seen as family. “I was hoping you could do the honors.” Silver King returned to his position in front of Katana.“Yes, father.” Katana bowed. Silver king smiled and nodded, then left the room.“He’s a piece of work.” Scythe said once their father was gone.“Scythe!” He quickly scolded her. “He may still be around!”“And? They always tune me out anyways.” She shrugged. “I’m happy you’re the one taking one of my eyes. I think if mom or dad did it they would just let me bleed out.” Katana sighed. He loved his sister, truly he did. But sometimes he wished their parents at least tried to be present.----------------------------------------------“Today we welcome a new member among our ranks.” Silver King’s voice boomed in the chamber. Katana and Scythe waited in the wings of the stage. Their ceremonial robes hung loosely on their bodies.“These itch.” Scythe noted. She rolled up her sleeves and started to scratch her arms. Katana softly put a hand on hers, a silent way of saying stop.“Katana, heir to my position, will be performing today’s Eye Opening ceremony!” The crowd cheered. Katana nodded and led his sister out onto the stage. In the middle there was a pedestal. A green velvet pillow sat atop it, adorned with a large blade. He could feel Scythe’s hand brush up gently against his robe, trying to grab it. He turned back and whispered.“Don’t show any fear. Don’t you dare even cry.” He whipped his head back forwards and stopped next to his father.“You may begin, son.” Silver King bowed and left the stage. The cult’s eyes all snapped to Katana. He took a deep breath, then walked up the stage. He quickly flicked his tail at Scythe so she would stay put.“True Eye,” He raised his arms. “Today we gather here to baptize a new sister.” The crowd cheered. Katana put his hands down, then walked back to the pedestal. “May the Father bless you now, and forever.” Katana picked up the green blade, adorned with false eyes at the handle. He shakily walked over to Scythe, who had a look of determination. The blade was brought up, and placed carefully right below her right eye. The tip dug into her skin, and Katana quickly brought his hand up, causing the blade to hook Scythes eye and rip it out. Blue blood splattered onto the stage, along with all the other stains of past ceremonies. It was silent. Katana opened his eye to look at Scythe, who had a hand covering her new wound. Tears were starting to breach her left eye now. The cult cheered and shouted praises to Scythe. Some were even singing. Katana looked at his hand, covered in blood. The blood of his kin. He felt sick.

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Night was starting to set in. The full moon arched over the sky in a proud manner. The air started to grow damp and cold. Warm lights flooded the city, a safe haven from the desert outside. The Lost Temple’s night life was extraordinary. Stars seemed to be scattered through the sky forever. The sand would shift, concealing their location. If they were lucky, the gods would allow it to rain. Silver King stood poised on his balcony, overlooking his city. His citizens had a choice. Join him, and bow to the Seer, or perish when judgment day comes. He knew of a few families that refused to bow. But, they still gave him the tax money every month, so he could care less. The glass doors behind him opened. Silver King turned to see his daughter, Scythe. A nasty scar was present over her eye socket. It had been two years, if he remembered correctly, since her ceremony. He was somewhat proud of how she hadn’t screamed or cried. “Scythe,” He tried curling his lips upwards in a slight smile. “What do you want?”“I wanted to say goodbye. I’m leaving tonight.” She gently closed the door. Her boots clicked on the stone.“Ah yes.” Silver King turned back to gaze at the city. “Well, you better make us proud. This mission was supposed to be for your brother Katana.”“Yes I know.” Scythe looked down.“I wonder why he turned it down so suddenly?” The cult leader rested his hands on the railing. “No matter, Katana will make an exceptional leader when I pass. You better listen to him.”“I will.” Scythe’s tail started to rattle in annoyance. Silver King turned to look at her again.“We should really get that amputated.” He muttered. Scythe heard, and quickly grabbed the tail to silence it.“I’ll be going now.” She took one final bow and slipped away through the doors. After a few minutes, Silver King returned to his original position, overlooking the city.“Oh Seer,” He folded his hands together. “Please answer our prayers tonight.”--------------------------------------------------------Scythe stomped her way through the desert sands. She was pissed off at her father. The modified rifle that Broker had built for her kept smacking her in the back everytime she took an exaggerated step. Her boots were starting to get full of sand, and her spurs just kept on clicking. “Who does he think he is?” Scythe kicked a stray rock, a small sand cloud kicking up with it. “It’s not my fault I’m a girl! If anything it’s his!” She grabbed another rock and threw it. “This is gonna be the best mission he’s ever heard of.” Scythe continued to trudge onward towards the small town she was sent to. It wasn’t too far from home. This was supposed to be a break mission for her older brother, Katana, anyways. Just something simple and easy. The town’s lights started to come into view. It was an old place, with wooden buildings and dirt roadways. Simple and easy.Scythe walked up to the inn. She had to present herself as a traveler. Hopefully, her eye bandages wouldn’t raise too much of a suspicion. The door creaked open, and a tired looking receptionist was seated at the front desk. They looked up at Scythe and their mouth became a thin line. “Checking in for the night?” They asked.“Yes. One bedroom, one bed.” Scythe stated.“Are you going to be staying with us for more than one night?”“No.” Scythe’s pupil went into the slit, then back to normal.“Alright. That’ll be 30 bux.” The worker held out a clawed hand. Scythe put the appropriate amount of money in it. “Name?”“Rifle.”“Alright. Well, enjoy your stay.” They handed her the key and turned back to whatever they had been doing before. Scythe quickly ran up the stairs and found the room. She unlocked the door and went in to get all her stuff together. A plan still needed to be formed. Tomorrow, she would spend the day acting as a visitor just passing through. She would learn about the town, find its weak points, then at the dead of night, blow the whole place up. She took her rifle off of her shoulders, and gently placed it underneath the bed. Right now, Scythe was back at the Lost Temple, sleeping. Rifle was the one who was going to massacre the town.-----------------------------------------------Scythe woke up to the sun shining through cracked windows. The thin blankets that she had used to cover up with were crumpled and torn. This town was dirt poor. Scythe grabbed her rifle and got dressed. She wore a dusty brown jacket and darker brown pants. She tied her hair up, and quickly put on a coat of horn paint so her identity was more fortified. Her previous coat was starting to chip. She adjusted the eye bandage, and then left the hotel.The town was oddly busy. Rifle noticed how there were plenty of people getting drunk at the bar, and how there were some kids playing in the square. The citizens were dull, their horns void of any color. One demon, however, caught her eye. He was standing outside of the grocery market. His horns were bright pink. Rifle was a moth to a light for these horns. She quickly ran over to where he stood. He looked her way. “Can I help you?” He asked.“I just wanted to say,” Rifle had to catch her breath for a second. “You have very pretty horns!”The demon smiled, his teeth showing. It was a warm, kind smile. “Thank you. Yours aren’t so bad either.”Rifle laughed. “Say,” She looked around the street. “This town is pretty old.” It was a blatant observation.“Heh, yea. All the buildings are so dry. That’s why I’m here.” The demon summoned his gear. “I’m Watergun. I like to hang out around these old towns and make sure they stay fireproof.”“Oh wow.” Rifle’s eyes widened. “That seems like a big job.”“Yep.” Watergun popped the p. “Thankfully It’s been smooth sailing.” He smiled a toothy grin. “I might stay a little longer here though, nice place.” He took a long look at the buildings.Rifle and Watergun continued to chat for a while. The sun started to creep down into the sand, while the moon started to rise. “I should get going.” Rifle said.“Ah man. Well, I’ll see you around!” Watergun put his gear around his back, then went into the store. Rifle waved a little, then started to walk back to the hotel.She opened the old door, wincing as it creaked open. The duffle bag full of explosives sat nicely on the far dresser. Scythe quickly grabbed it and threw a remote bomb on the ground. Broker had been kind enough to build more than enough, with his limited tech knowledge. Scythe fled out of the hotel, the worker giving her an odd glance. More bombs were placed throughout the town. Some were placed on obvious weak points, others were put underneath decks. When Scythe got to the store she paused. A few seconds later she realized how stupid it was to think about sparing the little shop, she had a job to do! So more bombs were placed around the building.-------------------------------------Scythe was perched atop a rock formation, a few miles out from the town. She pulled out the little remote Broker had wired to the bombs. A comically large button was placed in the middle. Scythe looked at the town one final time before pressing it. For a second, nothing happened. But then chaos erupted. Wood flew, and blood soared across the sky. There were screams, and Scythe could see the figures of some civilians trying to leave. More bombs started going off, and buildings started to fall. It was almost cinematic for Scythe.These were the things Katana would only tell her in stories. The sand around the town lit up from the fires. It was beautiful in a sick and twisted way.-----------------------Scythe trudged around in the ruin, she was pretty confident no one had survived. Bodies littered the street, jaws and eyes open. Some were holding onto their young, others seemed to be crying out. Buildings were unsteady, and some of the walls were still crumbling. This was her doing. All this destruction was because of Scythe. She saw the receptionist that had helped her. She saw the children that had been playing in the street, scraps of their ball around their bodies. She continued to walk over the dead, coming up to where the store would’ve been. There they were. Beautiful bright pink horns. Scythe smiled and ran over. She grabbed the horns and tugged on them. Stray body parts fell off of Watergun’s body. His head ripped off his neck and the remaining parts fell with a soft thump. Scythe focused on her true prize, his horns. She took out her extra knife and started to saw away.------------------------------Her mission was complete. Scythe had done what her father had wanted, and even got a souvenir out of it. She could see the city gates peeking up over the sandy dunes now. Her bag jostled nicely against her waist, and the rifle was secured around her back. She could hear Watergun’s horns click with every step through the bag. The city gates were starting to get bigger, the buildings stretched up and over. She could see some figures at the gates. They looked like her brothers, standing guard. Scythe started to pick up the pace, wanting to see her siblings again. She had been gone for a week, counting her time traveling. Katana’s figure straightened up, and Broker’s started to run closer, both of them ready to greet Scythe back home.“Mounted…?” Katana was examining the horns that Scythe had brought home.“Yea! They were so pretty, and I just HAD to have them!” Scythe plucked the items out of her brother’s hands. “You think dad is proud of me?”“Father is very pleased with the work you’ve done.” Katana smiled softly. “You did good.”Scythe smiled back up at her older brother. She quickly put the horns back in her bag. “I’m going to ask Broker if he can mount these for me.”“Stay out of trouble!” Katana called out as his sister bolted out the door.—-----------------------------------------------The room was filled with the smell of glue. Broker was gently placing bright pink horns to their new home, a wooden plaque with gold accents. To be fair, they were very pretty. Scythe always had a good eye for things like that. Must’ve been a woman thing. He did some final adjustments before putting the mount somewhere to dry. The door creaked open, and Broker turned around. His rubber apron and gloves made some squeaking noises. In the doorframe stood his mother. Her regular robes were swapped out for a more fitted outfit. Something that she would only wear when going out to meetings with other faction leaders. Broker smiled.“Going out?” He asked. His mother just nodded.“Katana is in charge.” She looked beyond him, seeing the mount she stepped further in. “What’s that?”Broker turned around with her. “Scythe took a pair of horns from her mission. She asked me to mount them for her.”His mother smiled a little, but it quickly went away. She stepped back and walked out the door. Broker stood there, starting to take off his gloves and undo the apron. He looked back at the mount. The pink horns shimmered brightly against the dusty walls. The lone demon laughed a little. If Scythe continued to do things like this, even the gods would fear her.

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Katana dragged his feet behind him. He didn’t want to keep coming to these boring meetings. It was just stuck up faction leaders anyways. He looked up at the large door, labeled “LOST TEMPLE ENTRANCE” and sighed. Silver King opened the door, the only other demon in there was Blackrock’s leader, Axis. He smiled when Silver King entered.“Silver King!” Axis stood up and spread out his arms. He looked down to see Katana. “Oh my! Your son has grown quite a bit!” He walked around the table to get closer. “If he wants, he can play with the soldiers I’ve brought.”“Katana is not a child.” Silver King clapped a powerful hand on his son’s shoulder. “He can handle our meetings.”“I’d say Hyperlaser is around your age…” Axis continued on. “Oh come on Silver! Let the kid live a little!”Silver King looked down at Katana. Then back up at Axis. “Fine.” He huffed. “Katana, go meet the soldiers. They will keep you entertained.” Katana nodded and followed Axis out his door.
It was a little awkward at first. Hyperlaser and B. Zuka were, quiet to say the least. Though to be fair, Zuka seemed a little more nervous.“So you’re Silver King’s son?” Zuka asked.“Yes.” Katana responded. They were all sitting in a circle outside of Black Rock’s door. Hyperlaser still had his gun held tightly.“So it is true…” Zuka took off his pointy glasses, showing off his blue eyes. They were kind of scary, especially since Katana was used to green, brown or white eyes. “So do you guys all have a missing eye?”“Uhmm.” Katana rocked a little. He didn’t know what he could reveal and what he couldn’t. “No.” He quickly tried to come up with an excuse. “It was just a coincidence. But all the sons of the current leader have to get their eye removed at 14.”“Oh.” Zuka sat back, and folded his glasses up. “Hyperlaser, do you have any questions?”Hyperlaser was a quiet guy. He had navy blue horns that jut backwards from his skull. He had dark gray fur and his eyes were an even darker blue. “No.” He said curtly. The sniper shifted his gun around.“Come on, you have to have at least one!” Zuka smiled, his fangs showed.“Fine.” Hyperlaser turned to Katana. “Do you have any siblings?”This was something Katana could answer. “Yes, my younger brother and sister. You?”“None.” Hyperlaser turned to Zuka. “He has no siblings either. Soldiers of Blackrock have small families.”Katana nodded. He studied the two. They both had long fur, and sharp teeth. Their horns were short but sharp. Their clothes were heavy duty, and looked like they had heating pads in some parts. He could feel them study him back.“You have really short fur.” Zuka scooted closer. “That’s so neat.” The bomber smiled. His blue eyes widened, scaring Katana a little.“Well, I do live in the desert.” He smiled weakly. Hyperlaser smiled a little too.“You should come to Blackrock, I’m sure you’d love the weather.” Hyperlaser suggested. It was an empty invitation. Katana knew he wouldn’t survive a day out in their blizzards.“And you guys should come to the Lost Temple.” Katana offered back. The three started to get more comfortable. Soon, conversations were being held on for longer than a few words.The door behind them creaked open. Silver King and Axis stood beyond it. “Time to go.” Axis walked through. Zuka and Hyperlaser quickly stood up and followed their leader.“Bye Katana!” Zuka waved, but was quickly jabbed by Hyperlaser. The light blue demon put his hand down and walked on.Katana did a weak wave, even though Zuka wouldn’t see it. His father came up behind him. “I take it you had fun?” He asked.“Yea. They were nice.” Katana started to follow his parent back towards their door.“Good.” Silver King muttered.—----------------------In the following meetings, Katana would always hang out with either Zuka or Hyperlaser. Axis stopped bringing both of them at a time. One meeting though, Broker was invited to come.Katana led his younger brother out of the Blackrock doors. He could feel Axis’s eyes on them. Outside waiting for them was none other than Zuka.“Hey! Who’s this?” The soldier came up and examined Broker.“This is my younger brother, Broker.” Katana pushed him forward.“Where’s his gear?” Zuka looked back up at Katana. Broker stiffened. He was around the same height as Zuka, just a little leaner.“I don't really use it.” Broker said. Katana backed up.“Really?” Zuka smiled, his glasses shone. He held out his hand. “B. Zuka, head of the bomb squad at Blackrock. You can just call me Zuka.”Broker took the hand and shook it firmly. “Broker, son of Silver King.” They both smiled and started to talk more. Zuka seemed so interested in what the demon had to say. Broker was smart with gears, and loved to blabber about the technicals and theories that went along with it. Katana smiled weakly and listened carefully, even though he had heard all of this a thousand times before.“Damn dude!” Zuka crossed his arms. “Maybe Blackrock should hire you! You got some brains!”Broker smiled bashfully. “Thanks…”The meeting came to a close, and Axis came through the door. Silver King could be seen standing tall behind him. “Time to go home Zuka!” The Blackrock leader cooed.Katana waved goodbye, having to drag Broker away from the soldier. Their father led them out of the meeting room.The desert air was a nice refresher from the colder air of Crossroads. Broker was running up ahead chasing the birds away from the path. Katana stayed by his father’s side.“Katana,” Silver King said. “Before you worry, Scythe is out on another harvest.”The eldest son stiffened. “Again?” He kept his gaze on Broker.“Don’t worry.” He laughed. “As much as I hate to admit, she’s got guts. Your sister will be just fine.”—-------------------------------Katana stared at himself through his mirror. His teal horns were starting to wrap around his head again. They were due for a trim. Katana set the handheld mirror down and sighed. Scythe wasn't home yet. Broker was probably busing himself with weird metal trinkets.The door creaked open. Katana's mother stood in the frame."What do you want?" Katana asked. He tried to hide his disgust."I just wanted to say goodnight." His mother entered the room, and gave Katana a small peck on the forehead."Goodnight." Katana hissed."Have good dreams. Maybe Overseer will talk to you." His mom quietly left the room, shutting the door. But, she didn't fully shut it. The door glided back to a position where there was a small crack of light peeking through it. Mumbling some rude words, Katana got up and shut the door himself.

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It was around the middle of the night. Scythe was moving through the desert, a sack of horns shifted around on her back. There was a slight breeze, which would shift the sand around her boots. Her feet were starting to hurt, and her tail was dragging behind her now. Sighing, the criminal went on a detour to find a secluded area, preferably a burrow.After searching for somewhere to rest, Scythe found an empty burrow. She rattled her tail to draw out any animals. When nothing appeared, she crouched down and squeezed herself in. It was dark and damp inside the hole. Some roots were springing through the dirt walls. It was comfortable enough though for her.She curled up, burlap sack held tightly to her chest. Scythe found a smooth rhythm with breathing. Sending up a small prayer to Seer, she fell asleep.—-----------Scythe awoke on a large marble pillar. There were clouds of different types surrounding her. The sky was a murky gray, and large birds circled the criminal. Scythe stood up. She was wearing an outfit that was all white, with some gold accents. There was nothing in the sky besides the clouds. A soft breeze blew into Scythe, causing her to stumble. The clouds started to move closer. Scythe looked up, her jaw opened when she saw a figure be formed out of the clouds. It was of a woman. Her armor was pronounced, and a large helm that covered her eyes. Her hair stayed one with the clouds, occasionally cracking a lightning bolt.“CHILD.” She roared. Her teeth were sharp, and her voice was commanding. Scythe instantly fell to her knees.“YOU HAVE A TAINTED MIND.” A lightning bolt nearly missed the marble pillar.Scythe jumped. “I’m only doing what I’m told.” She reasoned. A hand was outstretched, and picked Scythe up by the neck.She started to scream and kick, but it was futile. The cloud woman brought the snake demon closer.“YOU HAVE NO EXCUSE FOR BREAKING MY LAWS.” She thundered. The goddess eyed Scythe for a few seconds. “THERE IS NO FIXING YOU.”Scythe could feel her clothes go slack. The cloud woman had let go of her. Scythe felt herself start to fall through the endless sky. She screamed, then felt herself hit the ground.—----------------------Scythe jolted up. Sweat was rolling down her arms. The smell of dirt and rotting roots filled her nose. She was back in the burrow. The sack of horns was still next to her. Scythe huffed out a few breaths, and propped herself up on her arms. Groaning, the criminal slithered out of the burrow. Her limbs were sore from hiding away. She dragged the bag of horns out from the hole.The sun was rising, Scythe had woken up at a good time. She should get home around mid-day. Her joints ached with every step. Maybe she shouldn’t have slept in such a cramped space.Scythe trucked through the sand. Letting her tail drag behind her. It created an obvious trail behind her, but she could care less. Scythe just wanted to go home and see her brothers.Clouds rolled over the sky, causing the criminal to shutter. She had seen imagery of the women in her dream before. She was a Sword. Scythe didn’t know which one, but by the sound of it, she didn’t take too kindly to criminals.The city gates of Lost Temple started to peek through the sand. Scythe could feel all her worries start to slowly go away.That deity couldn’t catch her here. It would be cruel.Scythe trotted up to the gate. The guards nodded and opened the gate for her. Scythe strode right on in.Some spawnlings took notice of her return, and ran up to the teen.“Scythe! Scythe!” They screamed and tried to grab at her bag.“Hey kids!” Scythe nervously pushed them all away. Some tumbled down. Others continued to bat at the demon.“KIDS!” The caretaker called out. “Leave her alone!” The spawnlings all groaned, but slowly retreated back to the small area where they had been playing.Scythe brushed off her pants, grimacing at the little puncture holes their claws had left.While she was standing, Broker walked over. A large box was in his arms, presumably stolen gear parts.“Hey Scythe! Welcome back. How’d it go?” He shifted the box around.“Good.” Scythe nodded. “I had an odd dream though on my way home.”Broker thought for a second before responding. “I bet Katana would know how to deal with it. Anyways, I have to ship these off. Bye!” Her brother walked awkwardly away to the mail house.He was right, Katana would know how to deal with this. Adjusting her bag, Scythe marched on to where Katana would most likely be.—----------------------------Katana’s room was dim, her brother was busy painting. His teal horns had bits of color on them.Scythe set her bag down, prompting Katana to look at her. “Yes?” He asked.“I had a weird dream last night. I was wondering if you could help me interpret it.” Scythe sat on his bed. Katana nodded.“I can try.”Scythe recited the dream, telling him about how the clouds had surrounded her. And how the Sword picked her up and what not. Katana nodded and made the occasional hum. When Scythe finished, Katana put down his paint brush.“It wasn’t a dream, but a message.” Katana put his hands on his sister’s shoulders. “She was warning you. Keep being reckless like this, and you’ll feel her wrath.”Scythe swallowed nervously. “I think I’d be dead…”“Yea, so be more careful.” Katana jabbed her. “I don’t need you dying, not yet.”Scythe rolled her eye, but smiled. “I don’t think any old deity can kill me.”Katana let go of her, and returned to his painting. “What about her son? I heard he’s around your age.”She scoffed. “I bet he’s just some random ass demon. I could deal with him.” Scythe punched the palm of her hand. “Besides Katana, what’s the worst that could happen?”—--------------------------------------Katana woke up to the rays of light filtering in through his curtains. He rubbed his eyes and sat up.“ACK!” He jumped when he saw Broker standing in the doorway. A concerned look was on his face. “What?”“It’s Scythe. She had another dream. This time the Sword didn’t let her go without a warning.” Broker held out his right arm and pointed to it. “Scuffed her up. She’s in the medical bay right now. Just thought I’d let you know.” The younger demon stopped supporting himself on the doorway and left.Katana put his head in his hands and groaned. Scythe was going to start learning what consequences are. The hard way too.The eldest got up, deciding to check up on her. He threw on a pair of casual robes and took off towards the bay.It was small and cramped. Outdated tools lined the shelves. Scythe was laying on a rusty old cot. Her arm bandaged and concealed. She looked up at Katana with a weak smile.“So much for beating her up huh?” Katana folded his arms. He gave her a pointed look.“She had the upper hand! You can’t do anything in dreams!” Scythe whined. “Whatever, she gave me cool new scars, so in reality I actually won.”“You are an odd child.” Katana commented. He walked over to her and ruffled her hair. “But, who am I to judge?”“Yea, old man.” Scythe snapped back.“Hey!” Katana whacked her lightly. “I’m only a few years older than you.”“Whatever, you're still gonna die a crusty old man. And I’ll still be young and youthful.” Scythe batted her lashes.Katana sighed. “I’ll be back tonight to check up on you. Stay outta trouble.” He turned around to go.“That’ll be hard to do.” Scythe grinned.“I know Scythe, I know.” Katana weakly smiled back at her. Seer, he worried for her every day.

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Banhammer was a good kid. He listened to his momma, and did what his uncle asked. He would babysit his little cousins from time to time, and they loved him. Currently, the demigod, and warden in training, was cooking dinner for him and his momma when she got home. Windforce worked long hours, surveying the prison complex and making sure everything was in place.Windforce busted down the door, some wind trailing into the home. Banhammer looked up from the large pot.“Momma? What’re you doing home early?” He mindlessly stirred the contents inside.Windforce didn’t respond, only storming upstairs. She was mumbling something about “stuck up snakes” or something. Banhammer decided it was best to just keep stirring the pot.He could hear her footsteps. Stomping around mechanically. His momma was most likely getting out of her armor.A loud “Clunk” sounded from upstairs. Banhammer’s thoughts had been proven.A few minutes later, Windforce came back down in more casual clothes. She took a seat at the dining table across from Banhammer.“How was your day dear?” The wind goddess asked.“The usual.” Banhammer shoved a spoonful of the stew in his mouth. “You?”Windforce sighed. She dropped her own utensil. “Criminal activity is starting to rise in the Lost Temple area. It’s hard to track down, but I think I’m getting somewhere.” Windforce sighed.“I could help!” Banhammer suggested. It had been a while sense he had helped his momma with a case.“No.” Windforce said. “Lost Temple isn’t as… civilized as other places I’ve had you work on.” The deity took her empty bowl over to the sink. “It’s rich, but not very sophisticated.”Banhammer looked down at his feet. Conjuring up a plan, he decided he would help, just not tell his momma. The demigod stood up and joined Windforce at the sink. “What’re they like?” He asked.“Cultists. Brainwashed idiots who believe in nothing but air.” She grunted. “You wouldn’t wanna get mixed up with them.”—---------------Banhammer sat on a rockface, overlooking a canyon. He had taken himself to the desert, trying to scout for the criminals his momma had talked about. Banhammer had settled down near the Blackrock border, so when he got bored, he would turn to look at the city. Large skyscrapers stretched into the clouds. How any demon survived there, Banhammer would never know. He could faintly see the snow breeching into the sand. Soft voices alerted Banhmmer. Looking down, he saw two figures coming up to the canyon.They looked related, both having teal horns and a familiar feel. The taller one resembled a bird, while the shorter reminded Banhammer of the rattlesnakes his momma would weed out of her gardens.They were chatting about something, the snake demon moving her hands at a rapid pace.Banhammer leaned forward over the edge, trying to listen.“Katana, you’ll freeze! Are you sure about this?”“I’ll be fine, Scythe. Hyperlaser and I planned this a few meetings back.” The taller demon tried to reassure the smaller one, Scythe.The snake demon huffed, but stayed quiet. Banhammer leaned even further, he felt himself tip.Losing balance on the edge, Banhammer started to plummet down to the ground. He heard, “SCYTHE WATCH OUT!” Before absolutely flopping down into the sand.“What the fuck.” Scythe hissed out. “Katana go on ahead, I’ll deal with this… uhm… sky thing?”Banhammer heard someone running away, presumably Katana. He sat up after a few seconds, scratching his horns. He looked up at Scythe. Her eye was scrunched, and her mouth was a thin line. “Oops.” Was all Banhammer could say.“Who are you?” Scythe stepped forward, her boot narrowly missing Banhammer’s leg.“Banhammer.” He extended a gloved hand. “I’m a wanderer.” Banhammer didn;t dare reveal what his true reasons were for coming out into the desert, what if his momma was watching? And besides, he just met Scythe.“Scythe.” The snake demon shook his hand, and helped him get up with it. “I just kinda exist.” She shrugged. “I do live here though.” Scythe looked him up and down. “Who wears a full suit of armor to the desert?”Banhammer shrugged. “I wanted to be prepared? What if I was attacked?”“I guess…” Scythe sighed. Banhammer just stared at her. He wasn’t trying to be creepy, he had just never seen a demon like her. Shorter and darker fur, and slicked back horns instead of grand, daunting ones. “I should go.” Scythe awkwardly stepped away. “I have somewhere to be.”“Wait!” Banhammer put a hand on her shoulder. Scythe raised a brow. “Can we be friends?” It was very forward. Almost demanding, but it got the job done.Scythe’s eye widened. It relaxed after a few seconds. “Sure.” The desert demon shrugged. “I don’t see what harm it could pose.”—-------Katana was relieved to see Scythe. She had trotted up to him confidently. Katana greeted her, and allowed her to explain who the mystery sky demon was. They walked on, nearing the Blackrock border.“You’re still going through with this?” Scythe said as they reached the border. As planned, Hyperlaser was standing at the door waiting for them.“Who’s this?” He asked, flipping up his helmet.“This is my little sister, Scythe. I hope you don’t mind if she tags along.” Katana nudged Scythe to shake hands with the soldier.“No, no.” Hyperlaser smiled. His long fur was puffed up from the cold. “I promised I’d show you around, and your sister doesn’t seem like she’ll cause trouble.”Katana glared at Scythe, who only shrugged. “No stealing.” He said firmly.“Buzzkill.”—Blackrock was claustrophobic for Katana and Scythe. The buildings touched the sky, and the streets were about as wide as three large demons. Katana could see some of the residents doing laundry out on their balconies, others were chatting to neighbors. Scythe was busy watching some of the snow fall around them. Her short fur and snake tail gave away that she was from the desert, so some Blackrockers looked at her funny. But, Katana and Hyperlaser had already come up with the excuse that they were turning her in for a made up crime. The sniper chatted away with Katana about the smallest things. He talked about how Blackrock came to be, the soldiers that were being trained, and even the top students at their middle school.“It’s amazing what those two have accomplished at such a young age!” The sniper smiled. “I can see a bright future already for Blackrock. Say! Does the Lost Temple have any scientists?”“No,” Katana shook his head. “But, my brother Broker is really good with gears.”“I heard!” Hyperlaser adjusted his gun. “Zukes was telling me all about it!” He stopped, and gestured to a back alley way. “We could visit him now, he’s off his shift.”Katana looked back at Scythe, who was busy looking at balconies. “We really wouldn’t want to inconvenience him.” Katana said.“No need to worry! The guy barely does anything.” Hyperlaser led the siblings into the alley way. It was lit by a few blue lights, and the snow kept things bright. Doors were placed haphazardly on some buildings. They stopped at a gray door, the number 5 was etched into a gold plate placed neatly in the middle. Hyperlaser knocked on the wood a few times. They waited, then the door swung open. Zuka was in casual clothes.“Hyperlaser? Aren’t you on a shift?” He asked, there was a pen gripped tightly in his hand.“Yea, but there’s been nothing for ages. Boss said I could retire early today.” Hyperlaser shrugged.“Oh. Well, then shouldn’t you be in the square?”“No need, I’m showing Katana and his sister around.” He gestured to the shivering Lost Temple demons. “Mind if we come in?”Zuka raised a brow, but moved out of the way to allow the trio entrance. “I have to finish some paperwork in my office, but make yourself at home.” He slunk off into a back part of the apartment, the door was shut loudly behind him.The little apartment wasn’t half bad. Some dishes were left out, and the furniture looked semi-new. The living space and kitchen were connected, a counter being the only thing that divided them. Towards the back was a narrow hall and three doors, most likely leading to a bathroom and bedrooms.Scythe flopped down on the couch, her tail hanging over the back. Katana groaned. “Your shoes, Scythe.”“It’s fine.” Hyperlaser assured. “We don’t care if you wear shoes or not.”Katana nodded slowly. He was used to switching to his sandals when inside, due to the sandy nature of their house. He looked down at his clunky boots. “I see.” He said.Zuka’s office door opened and he stepped out, a purple folder was in his hands. Hyperlaser flipped up his helmet to smile. “Gosh Zukes! Didn’t think you’d actually go through with it?”The bomber rolled his eyes. Scythe looked up from the couch, and Katana inched away closer to his sister.“Well, I didn’t wanna keep living like this.” He looked around the apartment. Hyperlaser nodded, then he turned to the cultists.“Well, I guess we should keep moving on. Thanks for letting us stop by Zuka!”“Yea, anytime.” He smiled, then moved to put the folder away in a drawer. “Bring Broker next time.”Katana gestured for Scythe to get up. She did, but dragged her feet on the way out the door. Hyperlaser closed the door, and they were back in the alleyway.“Do you wanna see the square?” The sniper asked.“Why not.” Katana shrugged. Hyperlaser flipped the visor back over his helmet, and they were back to walking. Scythe would occasionally lag behind, but she always caught up. Hyperlaser was rambling about nonsense now. But it was in a way comforting. Blackrock was different, and not in the good way, to the Lost Temple. The buildings were to close, and the citizens looked like they would jump at them at any given moment. Their horns were more barbed, and much more sharp. They had longer claws, and their fur was always puffed out, making them appear larger.Compared to the short furred, short clawed thin members of the Lost Temple, Katana was terrified. He looked back to see how Scythe was doing. She seemed fine, happily trailing in the back. He turned back to follow Hyperlaser.—---The square was covered in snow. It was probably the largest open area in all of Blackrock. Some younger demons were building snow forts and throwing snowballs. There were an abundance of shops lined up on the edge, and the demons running them looked more impressed with the younger ones playing. Hyperlaser stopped abruptly.“I always like it when the spawnlings are out playing.” He made sure his gun was somewhat out of sight. Katana’s eye focused on a pair of demons. One had yellow horns while the other had purple. They were playing an intense game of tag. The purple demon was taller, and had a noticeable limp, but he was still catching up to the smaller one. Hyperlaser noticed Katana’s focus. “Those are Microphone and Megaphone. They come here every now and then with their sitter.” He looked around. “I never see the guy, but Mic and Mega insist they have adult supervision.”“Odd.” Katana commented.“Yea, but they like playing in the snow. And they don’t cause a fuss, so we let them stay.” The trio watched the two continue to launch snow at each other. Megaphone threw a pretty large snowball, which hit Mic in the face. The yellow demon stood still for a second before he started to wail really loud. Some shopkeepers turned their heads, but turned back when they realized what the source of the noise was. Hyperlaser cringed and started to make his way over to the children, but was stopped when the ground started to shake.A large figure came out of one of the shadowed alleyways. Katana and Scythe immediately recognized the silhouette. It was Banhammer, the mystery sky demon.. Hyperlaser jumped back at the sight of the teen. The purple demon knelt down by Mic, trying to get the kid to stop crying. Katana grabbed Scythe’s shoulder.“C’mon sis…” He whispered.“Huh? Why? Ban’s nice!” Scythe tried to convince her brother.Katana started to back up. He had heard what his father had said about the Swords, and their odd children. They were nothing but trouble. Before, when Banhammer had fallen, Katana hadn’t gotten the best look at him. But now? There was not a doubt in the eldest’s mind that this was the wind goddess’s son. “I think it’s dinner time, and Broker will be worried if we’re not back.”Scythe reluctantly followed her brother into the shadows.Banhammer looked up at the sniper. “Hyperlaser!” He greeted with a toothy grin.Hyperlaser did a small wave. “Good to see that these two do have a sitter.”“My uncle would go nuts if I left them alone.” Banhammer sighed. “Best for me to just hang around in the back.”The commotion died down, and Banhammer took his cousins elsewhere. The square was once again safe for the cultists to return. But they never did. Hyperlaser sat in the cold snow for an hour before he finally decided they had really run off. He sighed loudly.Hyperlaser still wanted to show Katana around some more.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The desert had once again succumbed to the night. The cold air reminded Katana of Blackrock. He felt bad running away from the city, but there was no chance he was risking getting Scythe caught. Speaking of his sister, she was just a few steps ahead. Her short fur was puffed out in an attempt to trap any heat. Katana was already so used to the desert nights that his fur was still relatively flat. It had been puffed out in Blackrock, however. A harsh breeze washed over the siblings. Katana could hear Scythe curse before adjusting the bandages over her eye. Her arm was relatively healed from Windforce’s attack, but her eye was another story. Katana continued to trek through the sand behind her.—------Broker excitedly stood at the gates waiting for them. He was wearing his outdoor robes, which meant he was on watch. Scythe ran faster to greet her brother, Katana continued his steady walking pace.When he arrived at the gates, Broker turned from Scythe to greet him.“Katana! How was it? Is he dead?!” Broker grinned, his yellowing teeth contrasted with his white fur.“Turns out Banhammer wasn’t there today.” Katana left out the part where Scythe had tussled with the demigod. Broker would’ve probably blabbed about it accidentally in front of their parents. Banhammer was supposed to be Katana’s target afterall. “But we did have a nice walk with Hyperlaser.”“Did you see Zuka?”“Yea, we went to his house.”Broker groaned. “No fair.” He opened one of the gates a smidge so Scythe could sneak in for night check, she slipped right on through. “What was it like inside?” Broker asked once their sister was gone.“Messy, but liveable. Why?” Katana raised a brow. “I don’t think Blackrock’s conditions would be the best for you.”“Oh trust me ‘Tana, I don’t even wanna step foot into that hell hole.” He laughed. “I was just wondering, that’s all.”“Ah, I see.” Katana approached the gate even closer now, allowing Broker to open it. They waved each other goodbye, and Katana was once again trapped in his city.—------The click of a lamp, and the room was lit. In the center was a large bed, adorned with pillows and a plush blanket for the cold nights. To the left was a nightstand. Some photos and books were stacked on the wood. There were no windows, as the room was underground. There were some paintings Katana had done, hung up on the wall. They were all landscapes of the desert. Some depicted rock faces, others were just the sand swirling in the wind.Katana shut the door behind him. He made his way over to the closet, where he kept all his painting supplies. He pulled out a large canvas, and his pallet. Setting them down, he reached for his stand and paints. He set everything up and started to paint. When Katana painted, he always liked to think. This was a dangerous time though, as he could get so lost in thought. His mind would separate from his body, letting it go on autopilot. So he thought. Katana thought about Blackrock, and the two students Hyperlaser had praised. Who were they? He would have to write to his friend about them later. Katana thought about the spawnlings in the square. They reminded him of the spawnlings in the city. He smiled slightly. He could remember his spawnling years. Comparing horns to the other’s in the city, and doing silly games where someone always ended up getting hurt.He could feel his clawed hand brush on the paint. But, he paid no mind to it. Instead he thought about his claws. They never grew out much, always dry and brittle from the desert sun, much like the many other demons that lived in the Lost Temple. Katana then thought about his horns. They were shorter, but he knew they could grow much longer if he wanted. It was a law that only the True Eye’s leader’s horns could be the longest, so Katana was stuck with his somewhat curved appendages. His jaw horns were starting to grow out as well. Katana knew few demons with jaw horns, or horns on other parts of their body. It was an odd mutation, but one that was never judged or looked at.The paintbrush bent carefully. Katana dipped it in more paint. He lifted it back to the canvas.Katana thought about his meetings with Zuka and Hyperlaser. He liked Zuka, but the bomber was more suited for conversations with Broker. The sniper however, was nice to talk to. Hyperlaser was calm, but outgoing in his own way. He held so much pride for Blackrock. He also was always curious about the Lost Temple, and how the demons handled all the heat and sand. Sometimes they would sit outside of Blackrock’s door, other times it would be outside of the Lost Temple’s. Katana always enjoyed those meetings.He lifted the paintbrush. Some paint was still on it, but his painting was done. Katana dipped his claw in some paint and did a small signature on the bottom right corner. The demon stepped back to examine what he had created now. The canvas was covered in blues, grays, and blacks. It was a landscape of the condensed buildings of Blackrock. There was snow falling down, and the neon lights and lamps were shining through. Katana put a hand up to the painted lights. He wanted to feel some sort of warmth from them. He loved his family, especially his siblings. But he had been thinking too much again now. His head hurt. Katana needed a drink.The kitchen lamps were out. Katana was going in blind. He had stolen from his father’s liquor cabinet before, but now the stakes were higher. The sounds were enhanced when everyone was sleeping after all. He opened the cabinet door, and started to feel around with his claws the bottle toppers. His brittle nails clinked against the smooth glass, allowing him to tell which ones were more full.After a few seconds of searching, Katana felt the signature bottle topper of an eye. It was always topped on good whiskey. He gripped the neck of the bottle and swiftly took it out of its original home. He closed the door softly and tip-toed back to his room.The bottle was already halfway empty when Katana got to have a closer look. He wouldn’t finish it, but he would still drink from it. He popped off the topper and set it on his nightstand. Katana looked up at his painting of Blackrock. The blues felt so welcoming compared to the harsh oranges and reds of his home. He took a swig of the bottle. The long-haired demons, as scary as they looked, seemed welcoming as well. Katana wondered for a brief moment what he may look like with long fur. The bottle touched his lips again. Katana started to feel the alcohol come back out of his eyes as tears. At least that’s what his mother always told him what happened when you drank. She said that no matter how much you drank, it always either came back out of your mouth or eyes. He had only once vomited after drinking, and it was not a pleasant experience. Katana started to cry even harder. All the pressure of being an heir started to pour out of him. Hyperlaser had pressure on him, but he was so proud of it. Katana was not. He sobbed through the night, sitting in his bed and staring at the most beautiful painting he had ever made.Katana had wanted Hyperlaser to show him around some more.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Scythe was playing with the city kids. She was going to supervise the classic game, sandball. It was a spinoff of snowball fights, but they didn’t know that.She took a rusty bucket and carried it over to the well. A gaggle of spawnlings followed her. They were all shouting sandball, or other versions of the word. Scythe lowered the bucket down, and then brought it back up. It was full of water.“Arlight, Bucket,” she turned to the small spawnling who held a large pale in his hands. “Can we trade pales for a second?” The little demon nodded and took the heavy water bucket, giving his empty gear to Scythe. She turned back to the well and filled it back up with water.After about a few minutes of deciding teams, the group was on their way to the east gates. Those gates were hit with the most sandstorms, so there were large piles of sand caked up around the bars. The spawnlings all chatted on the way, talking about what they ate for breakfast, or how excited they were.They had reached the gates, and the sand dunes were there. The spawnlings all screamed in excitement and rushed over to start making large sand piles. Scythe gave each team a bucket of water, she made sure to give the team Bucket was on his pale.“Alright.” She said once everyone was in place. “You guys know what to do!” She rattled her tail loudly to act as the starting whistle.Like robots, the little demons got to work wetting the sand and forming misshaping balls out of it. They would then hand it off to the team throwers, and continue the cycle. Sand flew across the battlefield, and there were sounds of either excitement or fear. The city kids kept this up until one teams bucket ran out of water.“OH NO!” One of them screeched. They picked up the empty bucket and turned it upside down, but no water came out. “ADVANCE!! THROW THE DRY SAND!!” The kid screamed. Their whole team started to yell in agreement, and advanced onto the opposing side, hurling dry sand as they went.Scythe watched them from the sidelines. Some older demons would’ve called the game quits there. But the spawnlings had fun even if they ran out of water, so she let it slide.Broker stepped up beside her, a worried look on his face. Scythe jumped when she realized her brother was there. “What’s up?”“Just came to see what all the screaming was about.” He looked out at the kids. Scythe saw an envelope and pen clutched in Broker’s grasp.“And deliver some mail?” She nodded towards it.“Yea, but this mail is for the south gate.” He held the envelope a little tighter.“Who’s it for?” Scythe took her eyes off Broker for a few seconds to glance at the spawnlings, who were playing even harder now. Broker went silent. He crinkled the paper a little, clearly nervous about it all.“Don’t tell father.”“You know I won’t.” Scythe smiled at her older brother.“It’s for Zuka.” He whispered. “Me and him have been keeping in touch.”“Ah, I see.” Scythe grinned. “Well, good luck with that.” She turned to the spawnlings again. They seemed like they were all done playing. Some were sitting in the sand, still flicking it up, others were chatting around. “Well, I think it’s time I go back to the square.” Scythe started to walk over to the gaggle. Broke waved and headed to the south.She walked up to the little demons, who all perked up. “Alright guys, it’s time to head back.” There were some sounds of disappointment, but the demons all started to make their way over to Scythe. She led them back through the city and into the square, where some older demons were gathered now.There were some of the spawnling's parents gathered near the well, so the little demons scampered off to say hello. Scythe then carted the remaining demons to the main caretaker.“Thank you.” The demon smiled, and quickly accounted for all the kids.“My pleasure.” Scythe nodded her head and waved goodbye to the little demons. They all excitedly waved back and shouted goodbye.—-----------------------------------The town went up in flames. Another harvest was successful. Scythe was sitting comfortably in the shadows of a large rock formation, nestled in the sand. She watched the small little town tear itself apart. There had been some pretty horns in that town, so Scythe wasn’t leaving just yet. The purpose of this harvest was to drive as many demons out as possible, so they would have no choice but to flee to the Temple. Scythe looked out, and the shadow of the rock grew taller. She tilted her head, as the shadow started to grow horns, and a suit of-“SHIT!” Scythe jumped up quickly and started to run. Katana had told her about Banhammer’s true intentions last night. The once mysterious sky demon had now been revealed to be that crazy bitch’s son. Scythe quickly scrambled away, her limbs flailing around.“WAIT!” He called out, Scythe could hear Banhammer approach, his footsteps heaving and rhythmic. He caught up, and grabbed her shoulder. “Were you in the town when it lit up?”“Uh, yea.” Scythe technically wasn’t lying. She had been in the town.”“You alright?” Banhammer sounded genuine, his mouth forming a thin frown. Scythe could tell he was looking her up and down for any injury, even though his blindfold covered his eyes.“I’m fine. I smelled the smoke before anyone else.” She looked down.Banhammer turned around to look at the huge smoke cloud. Silhouettes of surviving demons running were barely visible. “Do you have anywhere to go?”“Yes.” Scythe nodded. “There’s a town out east that I can stay at. The innkeeper knows me.”“Good.” Banhammer smiled. “Mind if I join you on the journey?”“Knock yourself out.” Scythe shrugged, and started to walk eastward.Banhammer smiled and followed her closely. His hands folded politely. “Is that your gear?” He asked after a few minutes of walking.Scythe did a quick glance at the barrel of her rifle behind her. “What do ya’ think?” She deadpanned to Banhammer.“Well-” Banhammer sheepishly smiled. “Er, what was your name again..?”Either this was a blessing from Seer herself, or a curse sent from the Swords to punish her. Scythe had told him her actual name beforehand, but now she wasn’t so sure that had been the best idea. Still, there was a small part of her that felt like it didn’t matter.“Scythe.” She confidently said. “The gun is from a friend of mine. They let me use it every now and then.”“AHA!” Banhammer snapped his fingers. “Yes! That was your name. I knew that.”“Sure you did…” Scythe raised a brow. “You always this forgetful?”Banhammer stayed silent for a few seconds before slightly nodding.“Well, whatever, I don’t really care.” Scythe tried to reassure him. Broker was the same way, forgetful. They both went silent, and continued their journey to the next town over in peace.—---------------------------------Banhammer was practically dragging himself through the sand by the time they reached the town. There were only a few shops, an apartment building, and the inn. Scythe stopped right before the entrance, and turned to the other demon.“I think it’s fine if you leave now.”Banhammer looked down, his mouth formed a thin line. He looked back up at the town, and then down at Scythe. “Yeah. I guess you’re right.”“Later Banhammer.” Scythe started to walk on, leaving him behind.“Bye Scythe.” Banhammer’s voice was quiet. He gave her a small wave that was never returned.Scythe swished her tail as she entered the town. Katana was on a harvest here. Most likely, this was his last one. He had been getting more rebellious lately. With more children being ordained into the cult, Katana had been plucking out more eyes. Scythe knew he hated it. She would too. Hearing their blood curdling screams over an eye? Yuck.Stepping into the inn, she saw her brother’s large figure towering over the desk. He was quietly chatting with the clerk. His body turned when he heard Scythe’s boots clacking around on the wooden floorboards. “Ah, this is my sister.” Katana smiled, and placed a large hand on Scythe’s shoulder. “She’s very energetic.”“Hey!” Scythe whacked him with her tail. “You’re just boring.”Katana sighed, but still had a smile on his face. “I’ll be checking out then.” he dropped the keys for his room on the desk. The clerk smiled and took them. She thanked him for the stay, and Katana led Scythe out the door. His footsteps were hurried, and a worried look was plastered on his face.Scythe got the hint, and quickened her walking pace to match his. “Did you plant bombs?”“No.” Katana said bluntly. “I did get you a present though, as much as I hated it.” He shook his bag, causing a small rattle to be heard.Scythe smiled. “You're the best!” She smiled and danced around her brother.Katana smiled and laughed. He grabbed Scythe's leg with his tail, causing her to stumble. “Let's go home. I think father will be pleased to see you in one piece.”His sister rolled her eye. “Your giving him to much grace.”“Yea, you're right…” Katana sighed. He ruffled Scythe's fur, grabbing onto her hat and somewhat spinning it as much as he could. “You're a good sister.”—--------------------------------------Broker was seated at his desk, working on polishing up the horns Scythe had brought in. His sister was sitting next to him, watching.“These are some nice ones you found.” He said.“Tana found them.” Scythe leaned over Broker’s shoulders. Her brother stopped moving, his nostrils flared.“You smell like brimstone, and ash.” He turned to face her. “We don't have that here in the desert.”Scythe’s face fell. Her mouth formed a thin line. “The town I was sent to-”“Horseshit.” Broker spat. He stabbed his claw into the wooden table. “Im dumb, but not that dumb. Katana told me about your encounter with that demigod. You’ve been hanging around him haven't you?”“No-” Scythe was cut off with a harsh slap of her brother's tail. “Fine. We hung out a little today. So what?”“You’ll be skinned alive.” Broker turned back around to work on the mount. “And you’ll be behind bars.”“You're such a hater.” His sister stomped around the room. She sat herself down on his bed. The door creaked open a few moments later. Katana stepped in. A piece of teal fabric gripped in his claws. It was a wash rag most likely, used to wash his horns.“Everything ok? I heard some arguing.” His eyes scanned between his siblings.“Broker is just a buzzkill.” Scythe grunted.“Im being realistic.” Broker countered back. “Her and that little law-boy can't run and skip around forever.”Katana shrugged. “He has a point, Scythe.”“Ugh.” The snake demon flopped down. “Whatever, I’ll do whatever I want. My way is the right way anyway.”

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Katana gripped the knife. His knuckles were white. A small child was kneeled down before him. Two hands clutching the side of their face. Small sobs breached their mouth. Katana sighed. He patted the little demon on their shoulder. “You did well.” The spawnling gasped, but shuffled offstage. A chorus of applause fell on Katana’s deaf ears. The ceremonial robes became even more uncomfortable with every movement. Another spawnling was shoved onto the stage. Katana recognized her. She liked the ice popsicles Scythe would occasionally make on hot days. She strutted fourth, chest puffed out. Katana turned to face the crowd. A mosh pit of demons, all lumped together in the sand and dry auditorium.

“The True Eye recognizes, and welcomes this new member. She will be brought up only knowing the truth and only seeing the truth.” His voice was monotone. Did he even believe in what he was saying? Was this the truth? Katana pushed that thought away. Instead he turned to the small demon. “Are you ready to be cleansed and reject the lies of the Seven Swords?” Katana asked.

“Yes!” The little demon nodded happily. Katana wanted to scream. She was a child. A child willingly wanting a knife stuck in her face.

“Then may Overseer bless you and your blood.”
Katana grabbed her face, his claws pressing into her skin. He hooked the knife under her eyelid. Taking a breath, he scooped the blade up. Trying his best not to cringe when he heard the tendons and muscles snap with the tug. He started to feel the blood splatter, and then he heard it.

A scream.

Katana opened his eye, looking down, he saw Scythe. Her mangled face in his hand, a teal eye on the tip of his knife. He gasped, and backed up. Pulling the final vein. The small demon in front of him cried even harder. The cheers and clapping from the crowd flooded Katana’s senses. He closed his eye, and shook his head. Scythe was 15. He was 18. Scythe’s ceremony was three years ago. Opening his eye, Katana could see the demon in front of him once again. He knelt down and gave her a soft hug. “I know.” He whispered. “It’s over now though. My brother will patch you up.” Katana stood back up, and watched the spawnling scurry away. Blood dripped from his knife. Katana swallowed hard. He couldn’t take his eye off the damn knife. The organ pierced on the blade was taunting him. “Look what you do to these people! HA!” Katana dropped his weapon. He fell down onto his knees. His breath became labored. Katana bared his teeth. His episode was cut short though. A sharp pain was felt in his shoulder. It was harsh, and a powerful force. Sooner than later, Katana felt his body being dragged off stage, literally. The lights around him dimmed, and angry murmurs were all he could hear. The inner voice was gone now. Katana looked up. Through blurry lines he saw the familiar green horns of his father.

‘Oh shit.’ Was all he could think.

—----------------------------------
It was damp, and cold. Katana twitched his hand, the smooth rock floor grazed his fingertips. He grumbled a string of curses, and pushed himself up onto his forearms. Katana blinked a few times before looking up. His father was standing tall above him. A scowl on his face.

“Father…” Katana whispered.

“What the HELL was that out there?” Silver King bent down. His eye twitched. “Wanna explain how you’re supposed to lead my people when you start sweating at the sight of a little blood?”

“I- I just got a bad memory, that’s all I promise!” Katana pleaded. “It won’t happen again.”

Silver King sighed, and grabbed Katana’s scruff. He picked up his son, his eye was blank. “I’ve been watching you.” His eye widned. “You’ve been slacking, more reluctant, you give your harvests to Scythe. Granted, she’s good at getting the job done. But your embarrassing me. And all your ancestors.” Silver King frowned. “You’re my only hope, Katana. You are the only one of my blood capable of leading.”

“That’s not true. If Broker tried-” Katana was cut off.

“Broker is an idiot.” His father looked down. “He’s charming, but stupid.”

Katana frowned. “Then what about Scythe?”

Silver King smiled. He started to burst out laughing. Tears pricked at his eye. “KATANA! HA!”

Katana stayed silent. He waited till his father piped down. “She probably wouldn’t embarrass you.”

“Her alone being up there plucking eyes would be embarrassing. You know the laws, Katana. It would be blasphemy to have her lead us.” Silver King put Katana down. “Now, let’s discuss more… pressing matters.”

Katana sat down, and criss crossed his legs. He was trying to be polite. Katana nodded.

“Do you want to lead?”

“No, father.” Katana shook his head.

“Katana, do you want to lead?” Silver King asked again, more harshly.

Katana looked up. “Yes, father.”

“Splendid! Now what the hell is going on.” Silver King clapped his hands together.

“I just-” Katana tried to talk. “I just, it’s-” His mouth hung open. No words were able to come out.

His father’s hands fell. A grim smile came over his face. “I understand.” He ruffled Katana’s head. “We all aren’t perfect. Now, I would like it if you stayed in the temple for a few days. I’ll let the guards know of your predicament.”

“Do I have to stay in my room again?” Katana sighed.

“No, I’ll let you socialize with your siblings.” Silver King started mumbling. “I don’t understand why you insist on talking with them…”

Katana felt a hand on his back. The soft pressure went away after a few seconds. He watched his father exit the room, tail dragging behind him. “Oh,” Silver King turned his head slightly in the door frame to look back at Katana. “How did you say you liked your steak cooked again?”

“Medium rare… why?” Katana raised a brow.

“I’ll have your mother prepare you a meal. Maybe you were just hungry.” Silver King shrugged, then shut the door. Katana was left alone in the cell.

—------------------------------
Broker was tinkering around with some metal when Katana opened his door. He looked tired, and had some dired blood on his claws.

“Can I sleep in your room tonight?” Katana asked.

“Sure!” Broker smiled. It was a soft expression. “Everything alright?”

Katana shook his head before falling into his brother’s lap, sobbing. Broker sat awkwardly on his office chair, but returned the embrace to Katana. “Father?” Broker asked. Katana nodded. More sobs came through. Broker sighed, and hoisted his brother up a little more before he fell down. “Need a night gown?”

“Yes.” Katana mumbled.

“I’ll be back then.” Broker lifted Katana up and moved his limp body onto the bed. He left his room to find Katana’s nightgown. Down the hall, he saw Scythe talking to their mother. He paused a little ways away to listen.

“Come on Scythe, just for five minutes.” Their mother sounded tired. Most likely, they had been arguing.

“No! I wanna go to bed.” Scythe retorted back.

“I’ll let you sleep in tomorrow.”
There were a few beats of silence before Scythe mumbled out a “Fine.”

He watched his mother lead Scythe away down the hall. Broker shrugged it off. He had a nightgown to get, so he turned the other way and headed for Katana’s room.

—------------------------
It was late into the night. Katana was barely awake. It was normal for him to periodically wake up throughout the night. He groaned and shifted over in bed. Broker was sleeping on the other side of him. Katana sat up and scratched his horn. Didn’t his dad say he would get dinner? Eh, it didn't matter. His throat was dry, so like any sensible teenager Katana got up and tiptoed out of his brother’s room.

The kitchen lamps turned on with a small click, and Katana went to the sink to fill a glass of water. He hated their tap water, but it was whatever. The glass filled rather quickly, and Katana raised it to his lips.

A sudden shrill scream startled him, dropping the glass. It shattered into bits, and the scream seemingly shook the temple as well. Katana’s eye went wide. He bolted out of the kitchen, wincing when some shards of glass were stepped on. The screams persisted on, turning more violent and horrifying as Katana neared.

Something made his heart skip a beat. An instinct halted all his movements. His hair and fur stood up, something wasn’t right.

The scream got closer, and Katana heard a large bang. It was like a caged animal trying to escape- wait.

Katana backed up, glass shards digging deeper into his foot. He heard another bang, and a loud clatter followed. Footsteps, running towards him grew louder. Katana tried to summon his gear, but nothing came to him.

He had stalled too long. Looking up in front of him, A blur of grey and teal rounded the corner up ahead. Katana’s heart started to pound even harder.

It was Scythe.

And he was her target.

Katana braced for impact as his sister tackled him down into the sandstone floor. Saliva dripped down from her frothing jaws. Katana saw a brief glance of her eye. A familiar shape was in place of her pupil. With his suspicions confirmed he tried to hold back her jaws. Her claws dug into his skin, from where she was holding.

The older brother felt blood drip down into his nightgown.

Had she bit him? What the fuck was going on? Katana looked to the left a little, and what met his gaze caused his blood to freeze.

There was no arm. THERE WAS NO ARM. Katana quickly tried to flip Scythe over. In the altercation, she bit his arm.

“FUCK!” Katana cried out, he ripped his arm out of her mouth, blood spraying out. He was able to get the upper hand, pushing Scythe down onto her back, and practically holding her down. “Scythe, SCYTHE!” He breathed. “What the HELL is going on?!”

No answer came, Scythe just kept trying to bite him. Her tail was rattling like crazy.

“Scythe,” Katana tried a softer tone. “What happened?” He was shaking now, and his foot still hurt. Scythe paused her movements. Her eye frantically moved across Katana’s face. “Scythe?” Katana whispered.

“This is your fault…” Scythe muttered, her eye narrowed. “You gave him your gear, you wanted this.”

“What..?” Katana shook his head a little. “Scythe what are you talking about-”
“YOU WANTED THIS.” A sudden surge of strength overcame Scythe, she kicked Katana’s stomach with her legs, and coiled her tail around his leg.

Katana felt his body twist and at this point he didn’t even know what was happening anymore. Some beastly instinct took over his mind for him. He was able to twist around enough that he grabbed Scythe’s tail and bit into it. She let out another scream and untangled the appendage from his leg. Katana released his hold.

A brief second passed before Scythe lunged at him again. Blood dripped behind her in the air. Out of familiarity, and out of habit, Katana sunk his claws into her shoulders. But, instead of an annoyed huff, like she would always do when Katana pulled this trick, a strangled yell came out. Katana then felt his left land get warmer. He had sunk his claws into her exposed wound.

“YOU BASTARD-” Scythe writhed in his grasp. Katana's mouth was left agape.

“Scythe I-” Katana was cut off by another animalistic snarl. Her struggles stopped suddenly though, and her eye became half lidded. More blood pooled around the siblings. A dark realization hit Katana. He had dug the wound deeper, causing more blood to spill. “Scythe NO!” Katana removed his hands, but Scythe’s body just fell onto his. Her limbs went limp.

Katana panicked. He quickly shoved her body off of his and sat up. His heart slowed down to a regular pace. His left hand was covered in blood, he didn’t know what to do.

Footsteps echoed from both sides of the hallway. Rapid, and slow ones on opposing ends. Silver King was the first to arrive. He was carrying Katana’s sword.

“Huh.” Was all he said when he looked at his daughter’s body. “She put up a fight.” He then looked at Katana. “I think you’ll want this back, yes?” His father handed him the sword. It was covered in dried blood and bone dust.

“Why…” Katana whispered. He didn’t dare touch his own gear.

Silver King grinned. “Your actions have consequences.” Was all he said.
The rapid footsteps came to halt. Katana looked behind. There standing in the soft light was Broker. A horrified look was on his face. His eye trailed down to his sister’s limp body. “You…” He shifted his gaze to Katana.

“Broker I swear I didn’t-” Katana quickly stood up, but was cut off by Broker shoving him away.

His brother quickly tore off a piece of his own night gown and messily wrapped it around Scythe’s wound.

“I suppose I’ll call for the medics.” Silver King grumbled. He set down Katana’s gear and wandered off.

Katana could only stare at his brother, who was on the verge of tears and cradling their sister in his arms. “How could you let something like this happen?” Broker whispered. He never took his eye off Scythe.

“I didn’t know.” Was all Katana could say.

“You did know. You always knew father had it out for us. We are expendable in his eyes.” Broker brushed some hair off of Scythe’s face. “You could’ve just played along. Just for a few more years.” Broker sniffed. Katana could see tears starting to form. “But no. You just HAD to defy him. Now look at what you did.”

Katana stood there. He had no more words to say. Broker was right. This was his fault. Katana looked down at Scythe’s body. Their sister was on the brink of death because he didn’t want to lead. Katana balled his hands into a fist, but dropped his fingers back into a resting position.

“You’re selfish…” Broker hissed. “No wonder father wanted you to lead so badly.”
Katana stared. He lifted his eye back to look at Broker. There was no denying it. Katana couldn’t play by the rules anymore, and his siblings were suffering. He knew what to do.

“I’ll take my leave then.” Katana started to turn. But Broker stopped him.
“If you leave we’ll die .” His brother muttered. “Father will kill us out of anger.”

“You can’t die. He needs someone to carry on the family blood.” Katana reasoned.

Broker scoffed. “Just go. I hope the desert eats you alive for your sins.” Katana heard him mumble a silent prayer to the god that they had been taught to praise and adore for years.

“I hope your false god abandons you.” Katana spat out. It was an impulsive sentence. His lips had moved before he could even process what was being said. Broker stopped muttering, and slowly turned to look his brother in the eye. No words were spoken, but Katana knew what was being suggested.

The eldest now walked through the hall. There were only a few things he had to pack afterall. If he remembered correctly, Blackrock was to the south.

But father would assume he went there.

Playground seemed livable. No, they were fools.

Katana had one final option.

He would head out for Theive’s Den.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

In the past two months, reports of mass murders had risen significantly. Small towns were being destroyed left and right. For a while they remained in the desert, but now they were starting to branch off closer to the Blackrock.Banhammer skimmed through the papers he had been given. He and his mother had been keeping close tabs on these massacres. Each one was more violent than the last.He sighed, and put his head in his hands. Windforce didn’t want him going out anymore. But hey, rules were made to be broken.Banhammer quickly grabbed his lighter armor and decided to try and find Scythe. Maybe she would know what to do.—-------------------------------------------------Scythe darted around the wreckage. Buildings collapsed, and bodies littered the street. She was hunting. It was harder now, with one arm, but she made it work.Her hunt was interrupted by a familiar shadow. Banhammer.The snake demon whipped around and hissed, her tail rattling with.
“Relax, geez.” Banhammer mumbled. He was used to aggression from prisoners, but he had never seen Scythe this worked up. Banhammer looked around at the town they stood in. “What happened here?” He looked back at her. Then he saw it. Where her left arm should’ve been was nothing but messy, stained, bandages. “Were you…” He quickly walked over to check her injury. “Are you ok..?”“I’m fine.” Scythe spat back. Banhammer could tell she was tired. Her eye had no shine, and her posture was hunched, contrary to her normal stiff and tall look.“You sure don’t look fine.” Banhammer tilted his head. “Do you at least know what happened here?”“No idea.” Scythe said. She turned her head to look at the mess around them. “I came here to find my brother, but-” She stopped herself. A few quick beats went by and she resumed. “But I guess I just missed him.”“What do you mean by that?” Banhammer whispered.“He wasn’t here. That’s all.” She shrugged. “He’s been trying to chase whoever’s been doing all this.” Scythe gestured to the sprawled bodies before them.“So am I.” Banhammer said. He grinned. “Been keeping my momma up trying to find the culprit.”“I see.” Scythe muttered. “Well, I’ll be heading out now. No point in staying around.” She turned to leave, but Banahmmer grabbed her right shoulder.“You need new bandages.” He blurted out. Scythe turned her head back to look at him, a puzzled look on her face.“I have medical supplies, I’ll live.”Banhammer swallowed. He had seen the horrors of infected wounds back at the prison. Frankly, he didn’t want to find Scythe rotting away in the dunes anytime soon. “Then let me help you at least.”“I have another brother.” Scythe narrowed her eye. “He can help.”The demigod sighed. “I just…” He looked her up and down. The stained bandages were prominent, and there was even some blood on her vest. “Fine. But I better not find your body in a sand dune next time I visit. Promise?”“Promise.” Scythe gave him a weak grin, and then trotted away.Banhammer stood there, his hand still extended out after her. He looked around the ruin, and tried his best to block out the growing stench.He turned around and headed out to an open area to head home.
—-------------------------------------------------“Did you find him?” Silver King asked. His clawed hand was gripping Scythe’s face rather harshly.“No, father.” She sputtered out.“ARGH!” Silver King took his hand off her face to throw it up in the air. “Your brother is a coward, Scythe.” He hissed out. “He causes this whole mess, then runs away!”“I know, father.” Scythe mumbled. She looked at the freshly dressed wound.Silver King paced anxiously around the room. He muttered a few things about Blackrock, and a sniper whom Scythe figured was Hyperlaser. Her father paused, and looked up at her. “You’re dismissed.”Scythe nodded, and then quietly exited the room. She headed towards Broker’s room.Opening the door slowly, she saw her brother writing something down in a notebook.“Broker,” Scythe paused and watched her brother jump slightly. He turned around on his swivel stool. “Do you have any idea where Katana might be?”Broker stared for a few seconds before blinking. He turned back around and continued to write. “Why do you even want to find him?” He hissed. “Katana’s as good as dead in my eyes.”Scythe sighed. “Father wants him back.” She walked further into the room. “If it makes you feel better, he never specified dead or alive.”Broker nodded. “I have an idea.” He grinned. “But you have to promise me to bring back a piece of him.”Scythe tilted her head. “Like his horns?”“Anything.” Broker leaned over and opened his drawer. “When Katana left, he thought it would be a good idea to tell me where he would leave too. All I have is this map.” Broker handed the crumpled paper to Scythe.Scythe smiled and grabbed the paper. She opened it and studied the placed ink. “It looks like he headed towards Theive’s den?”“He knew we would’ve gone to Blackrock.” Broker tapped his fingers together.“I’ll find him.” Scythe said. She focused her eye onto the location name. A sudden drive overcame her instincts. She would find this town. She would find Katana. No matter the cost.—--------------------------------------------Month two, coward.The town was small and cozy. Scythe was wearing a cloak, adorned with jewels. It was extravagant, but a worthy disguise. Katana had made the cloak a while ago for his own missions, but now Scythe wore it.Some demons waved hello, only seeing her as a traveler. She waved back to be polite. Some of them were clearly from Theive’s Den. Illegally crossing the Lost Temple border was a crime, but there were barely any guards along that border anyways.Scythe found the hotel rather quickly, and shuffled her way in.There was no one at the front desk to greet her however. Scythe awkwardly stood there, glancing around.Eventually an orange horned demon hurried her way to the desk.“Sorry, sorry!” She breathed out. “Do you need a room?”Scythe shook her head. “I need to know if you’ve seen this man.” She held up a portrait of Katana, it was colored.The desk demon studied it for a few moments before nodding. “He came in and got a room for the weekend. He should still be in town.”“Thank you.” Scythe put a few coins down on the desk for her troubles and headed out the door.The small grocery store nearby had been proven successful. Upon entering, Scythe immediately saw her brother’s horns among the shelves. She quickly darted among the customers to reach him. Scythe didn’t care about the glances thrown her way, or the fruit she knocked off the shelf.“Tana!” Scythe called out. Katana whipped his head up and looked around. When he spotted Scythe he started to back up. She saw her target symbol pop up over his face, his large face scar seeming more extravagant now.“No, no, go away.” He quickly put back the fruit he had been holding.“There's no running now.” Scythe inched closer. “You made your bed, now fucking LAY IN IT!” She whipped out a pistol and pointed it at Katana. Demons screamed, Katana included. Scythe took her aim and fired. Katana leaped out of the way, crashing into the side of a shelf. Shooting wasn’t going to work. Scythe dropped the gun and started to run after her brother. Katana was fast, but Scythe was gaining on him. Her drive for blood and his clumsy cooridnation when stressed was only helping one of them.Her brother tripped on a lifted floorboard. A shrill gasp came out of his mouth. The bastard had barely any time to react, as Scythe flung herself at him, pinning him to the ground. She grabbed onto her brother’s face harshly. He froze. Tears started to brim his eye.“You don’t get to cry!” Scythe screamed. she tightened her grip. Her claws sinking into his skin. “You leave us, and go on to frolic among thieves!” She hissed.Katana stayed silent. His breathing became rapid. He opened his mouth to talk, but instead he was greeted with the pressure on his face releasing. Before he could even utter a word or clamp his jaw shut, Scythe’s hand was in his mouth. Her clawed fingers tugging on one of his canines. He panicked and harshly moved his head to the left. Scythe’s fingers caught on his lip, and she stayed determined to grab his tooth. Katana moved his head again, Scythe could tell he was starting to lose his sense of thought. Frantic movements and a slit pupil were all she needed to know how he was doing. Scythe grumbled when he moved again, her index finger got caught in his inner cheek. “Seer…” Scythe muttered. She attempted to unhook her claw, but instead Katana moved again. Her claw was embedded deeper. “Fuck it.” She grumbled and ripped her finger through her brother’s cheek. Blood splattered everywhere, and the chunk of skin stayed firmly on Scythe’s claw. Katana screamed. Scythe was about to stand up when she felt someone grab the collar of her cloak. She yelped and quickly hid her bloody hand.Scythe rattled her tail before trying to bite down on the offender's hand.The demon yelped, but their grip stayed firm.Scythe's mouth was met with the taste of wood.“The fuck!?” She mumbled out.The offender laughed. “Go, I can handle her.”Scythe could barely see Katana nod and take off, a small blood trail following in his footsteps.“Goddammit!” Scythe flailed in the demon’s grasp. But no matter how much she tried, she could only watch as her brother disappeared from her view.The demon holding her down flipped Scythe around.They were able to meet face to face.“Yeesh.” She said, studying the criminal.“What do you mean ‘yeesh’.” Scythe hissed.“You look like you’ve been through hell.” Her pink horns glowed a little.“Your horns look like a good prize.” Scythe grinned.“Excuse me?”“You heard me.” Scythe used this opportunity to break free. She twisted out of the grasp and quickly ran out of the store.“HEY!” The demon called out.But Scythe was already a good hundred feet away from the town. The adrenaline and anger carried her legs practically. Her one arm flailed around uselessly. She gasped with every intake of breath.Katana was still a dead man walking.—--------------------------Broker was fiddling around with his latest project. Scythe was sitting in the corner of his workshop. A new bruise was starting to form on her arm, right where their father had grabbed her. She had reported seeing him, but not being able to wrangle him home.Broker had been ecstatic to see the ripped flesh however.“He didn’t even fight back? Why in the vast desert would he even be such a tank if he couldn’t even fight back a puny demon.” Broker snickered.“He’s a coward, that's why.” She mumbled. The small insult then registered in her head. “Hey!”“Hehe.” Broker smiled.“Well who’s gonna lead now? He left us to deal with this mess!” Scythe snapped. “He ran from his harvests, he ran from probably the biggest opportunity in his life! And now he’s running from us.” She threw her arms up in the air.Broker thought for a few moments before standing up. He walked quickly over to Scythe and spoke in a hushed tone. “Listen,” He leaned in closer. “You think you can play by the rules?”Scythe nodded.
“Good. Because me and Zuka have been talking. It seems tensions are starting to rise among factions. If that’s the case, father will need an heir ASAP. War brings nothing but damage. You could be that heir Scythe.”“Me?” Scythe blinked.“Yes you! All we have to do is convince father that you can take up Katana’s training.” Broker grinned. “Then, we kill the guy!”Scythe nodded. “Do you know if the war is confirmed?”“Axis might declare it.” Broker stood up straight to look around, then crouched back down. “We’ll most likely side with Blackrock.” Broker stood up straighter. “No matter what happens, I’ll make sure you lead us.”—----------------------------------------------Month three, friendship.It had been four weeks, and no sign of Katana.Scythe was back at one of the ruined towns. She was sitting among the many dead bodies. Some were starting to get eaten up.She sighed. Broker was right. No matter what, she would end up leading. Broker had no interest in rising to the top, while she did.Familiar armor clicked behind her.Scythe turned around slowly. She had no fight in her. She was too busy figuring out the rest of her life.Banhammer stood tall, blocking out the sun and casting a shadow.“Found you.” He said.“What do you want now?” Scythe looked up at the blindfolded demon.Banhammer shrugged and despawned his gear. “What’s got you coming back here?” He shuffled over and sat next to the criminal.Scythe scooted away. “None of your business. Besides, aren’t you supposed to be finding that loose killer?”“Well, I just thought you seemed pretty shaken up last time we talked.” He looked down. “I feared that something happened to you.”“Oh.” Scythe looked at her feet. “Well I’m fine.”“You don’t sound fine.” Banhammer said. He picked up a handful of sand, and let it fall through his fingers.The cultist turned her head to watch the falling sand. She kicked her feet a little, causing some sand to jump up. They sat in silence. It was awkward, yet comforting. Scythe didn’t feel like she was in any danger, and she could tell Banhammer felt the same.“Are we friends?” Banhammer whispered. Scythe shifted her gaze to him. Even though his eyes hid behind a tattered cloth, she could sense all sorts of emotions.Friends? Banhammer wanted to be friends? What a silly notion.“Yeah, we’re friends.” She smiled. The larger demon returned it, flashing his sharp teeth. Banhammer scooted a tad closer. Scythe followed, inching towards the purple horned demon. “What do friends even do?” She asked, trying to stifle a laugh.Banhammer tilted his head. “I’m not sure, I’ve never really had a friend before.”Scythe hummed. “Neither have I.”A faint breeze started to pick up, and Banhammer perked his head up. He looked into the endless sky, his blindfold shifting slightly. A frown started to form on his lips. “I have to go.” He sighed. “I’ll be back soon, I promise.” The demon held out a clawed pinky. “Pinky promise.”Scythe stared at it, confused. “What?”“You take your pinky and hook it with mine.” Banhammer bent his finger to emphasize the point being made. “My little cousin taught it to me.”“Ah, I see.” Scythe interlocked her own pinky with Banhammer’s. The larger demon squeezed it tight. The cultist feared her finger would snap off. When they broke off, she let out a dry laugh. “I’ll see you soon then.”“Yeah.” Banhammer gave one last smile. It was weaker, and seemed more somber than his other ones. “I hope you feel better.” He turned around and started to run into the open desert. To anyone, the large demon would look like a madman. Running blindly around, not seeming to even know where he was going. But to Scythe, it was normal. She stayed seated. The smell of rotting flesh became more prominent. Her eye watered slightly, and she let her head fall into her lap.“Why Seer?” She cried. “Why?” Her brother was missing, in turn causing her father to freak out. And now Banhammer was making the biggest mistake of his life, and she let him. Scythe dug around in one of her pockets, and pulled out a long piece of cloth. It was Katana’s way back, used to clean his hands after ceremonies. Now, it was used as a means to get her target on him. But maybe, just for tonight, Scythe could use it to try and regain the comforting feeling of her brother as he told her everything was going to be alright,—---------------------------------------Month four, declaration.Hoolahoop had enough. The Playgrounder slammed his fists onto the table. The other leaders leaned back. “I have HAD IT with you!” He turned to Axis. “We are going to war, whether you like it or not.”Axis grinned, it was cynical. “Then we’ll go to war, whatever makes you sleep easy.”Broker shot an uneasy look at Zuka. Both were standing near the back of the meeting hall. Hyperlaser had not joined in on this meeting, stating he had other things to do.The Blackrock soldier leaned down to whisper in Broker’s ear. “What a stupid thing to do.”Broker nodded. Even he knew the technological advancements Blackrock continued to make. The other factions just couldn’t keep up.“Do you think-” Broker’s hushed voice was cut off by Zuka.“We’ll be allies.” He smiled, and put his right arm on Broker’s shoulder, squeezing it. “And if we wouldn’t be, I’d still write to you.”The cultist smiled. “As would I.”There was another loud bang, and the two were forced to look back up at the table. Hoolahoop’s claws were digging into the stone now, and his muscles were tensed. Silver King and Axis were standing next to each other, their heads close.Xanwood huffed. “This petty argument between Blackrock and Playground is nothing more than a child’s argument. Thieves' Den will aid Playground.” Hoolahoop grew a large grin on his face. “But we expect to have trade routes opened up between us.” The Thieves' Den leader had a stern look on his face. He took his large clawed hand and placed it on the hilt of his sword. “I will be leaving, I see no reason to stay.”Broker watched him nervously. The thick furred demon’s fluffy tail dragged limply behind him, making no movement. Some slight whispers started to be heard among Axis and Silver King. Hoolahoop stood on the other end, arms crossed, and his tail lashing.“I cannot aid you.” Silver King turned to scowl at the Playground leader. “Your demons have no sense of seriousness, and only serve to play.”Hoolahoop snarled. “At least I don’t force my people into a creepy cult! Lost Temple has been declining for years now, it’s a wonder how you’re still the richest faction.”Axis stepped in front of the cultist. Their gangly limbs and long claws shook, most likely out of rage. Silver King remained still. Hoolahoop stared down Axis, making no intent to back off. A silent standoff began. Broker’s father turned, and looked at Zuka and him with a disappointed look. He mouthed the word “petty” before turning back around. Zuka smiled, and Broker tried not to laugh.The Playgrounder reached down underneath the table, all while kept eye contact, and pulled up his gear. Axis stiffened and stretched his hand out, ready to summon his own. Without a word, Hoolahoop spun around and marched out the door. Silver King let out a long breath, Axis stayed tensed.“As there are many things I admire about Axis, your petty grudges are not one of them.”Axis clenched his fists, his tail swishing back and forth. “You don’t get it.” He muttered.Silver King smirked. “Oh trust me, I do.” He tapped his jaw. “There are a few demons out there that I still hold a grudge with.” Axis nodded, but his tail continued to whip through the air.“Zuka!” He barked. “We’re leaving.”The soldier nodded, and stood up a little straighter. Following close behind, Zuka walked out in a precise and calculated manner.“Let’s go Broker.” Silver King headed for their door. It opened, and the pleasant smell of sand reached Broker’s nostrils. He went to run ahead, but was stopped by a firm hand on his shoulder. He looked up, and Silver King’s passive aggressive smile met his face. “Can’t have you running away too.”Broker let out an awkward laugh. He nodded. Silver King let out a quiet hum and walked ahead.The walk back was quiet, not a word was uttered between both Silver King and Broker. A large bird circled them overhead, its shadow moved and shifted among the sands. It let out a shrill cry and dove down into the sand. Broker let out a startled cry and jumped back. Silver King sighed.“It was hunting.” He pointed to the cloud of sand. Out of it, the bird flew. In its talons was a writhing snake.Broker swallowed a lump in his throat. He watched the bird fly for a few yards before it and the snake began to fight, both of them dropping back into the sand.“Pay no mind to it.” Silver King pushed Broker forward. “It has no purpose to us.”No more words were spoken between them.When they arrived at the gates, Broker beelined for his workshop. He had told Scythe to meet him there when the meeting was over.He pushed open the door to see her hunched over a letter, its torn envelope lying at her feet.“What’s that?” Broker asked, standing behind her.“The roster.” Scythe whispered. “It’s a rough draft, subject to change, but it looks like Blackrock already saw this coming and has an army prepared.”Broker tilted his head. “And how did you get it?”Scythe flashed her brother a toothy grin. “Katana had this in his room, I’m assuming Hyperlaser gave it to him. Blackrock had been wanting to wage war with Playground for a long time based on this.”The older demon snatched the paper, and skimmed over it. In bold letters underneath the commander's category was none other than B.Zuka.—---------—--------------------Month five, hand in hand.Scythe was stuck babysitting the two Blackrock kids that had waltzed right in with Axis to the alliance meeting. She never bothered to learn their names. Both of them were 12 from what she heard.The pink horned one danced around the armory room, where Broker had been busy working on gear adjustments and add-ons. The green horned one stayed quietly near Scythe.“It’s so hot here.” He grumbled.The pink horned one turned around. “It’s not so bad, Meddy!”“My fur is just thicker than yours, Subspace.” Medkit huffed.Scythe heard the meeting bells ring.“Let’s go. I’ll take you to the meeting hall.” She led the two demons to the hall. Her father was standing proudly with Axis at his side. She could see some other Blackrock soldiers standing at attention near the walls. Lost Temple demons flooded in through the entrance doors.“Welcome, welcome!” Silver King greeted everyone. “Today we will be officiating our alliance with Balckrock.” He gestured to Axis.“Yes, I’m very honored to be working with the Lost Temple. You are a strong faction.” He bowed his head. Silver King replicated the gesture.“I’m very gracious that you made the journey here, the desert is unforgiving.”“Oh, it wasn’t that bad.” Axis tried to reassure Scythe’s father, but she could see he was sweating a lot. “Now, let’s get this boring speech over with.”Silver King and Axis shook hands. The shake was firm, and solid. The crowd erupted into applause. Scythe looked at Medkit and Subspace. They were also clapping, but would exchange some words every now and then.The alliance had been formed, there was no going back now. Blackrock and Lost Temple were one.Scythe felt a claw tap on her shoulder. She stopped patting her leg, as she didn’t have a second hand to clap with, and turned around. Broker was standing behind her.“Did you see Zuka?” He asked.Scythe shook her head. “He’s probably back at Blackrock.”“Probably.” Broker nervously looked up to the stage.“Broker,” Scythe put her hand on his shoulder. “I’m sure he’s fine.”

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Two months into the war, and Scythe was ready for it to be over. Not because she hated the fighting, no, that was her favorite part. It was the fact that Broker had been stressed for the past week. Apparently he hadn’t seen Zuka on his trips to Blackrock. Scythe had seen the bomber once or twice while shifting through camps, but only at a glance.“I saw him just last week.” Scythe had said. “He was in perfectly good shape, you have nothing to worry about.”“A lot can change in a week!” Broker countered. “He could be dead!”Scythe had left the room by then. She felt for her brother, but she didn’t understand the attachment. When the war ended, Zuka would be carted back to Blackrock and proclaimed a hero. End of story. As much as Scythe wanted to feed into her brother’s delusions, she just couldn’t.She was seated now in her makeshift camp. It was sloppily made, as having one arm really only let you do so much. Her modified rifle was lying next to her. The Sun was starting to dip down as well.She was out traveling to a Blackrock camp. Stationed there was Medkit and Subspace, for their abilities. Scythe had been sent out to return them home.She was starting to nod off when heavy footsteps came behind her. She turned, expecting who she saw.Banhammer stood tall, his gear was nowhere though. “What’re you doing out here?”Scythe shifted over so the demigod could sit. “War.” was all she could get out.“Oh, so that’s why I’ve been watching the kids more often.” Banhammer took a seat, it was a heavy drop so Scythe shook a little. “Uncle’s been more busy in the past few months.”“Oh really?” Scythe looked at Banhammer, then back to the sky. “He a soldier?”“You could say that.” Banhammer shrugged. “Doesn’t answer my question though.”“I’ve been sent out to escort two demons back home to Blackrock. Medkit and Subspace, child geniuses.”
Banhammer nodded slowly. “What if you run into trouble?” His head tilted towards the missing limb.Scythe’s pupil slit for a second before returning to normal. “I know how to shoot with one hand.”“Of course you do, why did I even ask.” Banhammer laughed a little. He looked back out into the sky. The Sun was just reaching over the horizon, and the stars were becoming more visible. “I think I should go with you.”“What?”“Well I mean,” Banhmmer continued to stare out at the sky. “What if a Playgrounder corners you? You’re just a mortal demon with… disadvantages. I think it would benefit us both if I tagged along.”“Disadvantages? Really?” Scythe grumbled. “How would hanging around with me benefit you?”“Well, I would get to see more of the desert. And meet some new demons!” Banhammer said. “Momma never really let me out much before I turned 16.”“Fair.” Scythe got up. “Well, you can leave whenever you want.” She started to make her way into the makeshift tent. Scythe paused though, and looked back out at Banhammer. Silently, she kicked her gun closer to her bed.—---------------------------------------------------------“Are we there yet?”“NO! Now quit asking that!” Scythe snapped at Banhammer. Who had been asking that question for the past hour. They had been making their way to the camp since sunrise, and now it was mid-day.Banhammer grumbled about something, but continued to tag along.Scythe could start to see the tips of Blackrock tents over the dunes. They were large, and not very subtle. “We’re here.”“WE ARE?!” Banhammer ran up beside Scythe. “OH MY GOD WE ARE!” The demigod jumped up and started to run down the dunes.“Banhammer! WAIT!” Scythe ran after him.The Blackrock soldiers standing guard quickly pointed their guns.“WAIT DON’T SHOOT!” Scythe practically screamed. The guards lowered their guns slightly. Scythe was thankfully able to run past Banhammer and show her identification to the guards before the meat head could do anything. “He’s on our side.” Scythe lied. She shot a look to Banhammer that told him to play along.“Uhh yea! Go Blackrock!” Banhammer pumped a fist up.“I see.” One of the guards said. “He can wait outside with us.”“Alright.” Banhammer waved to Scythe as she was escorted into the camp. The guard that was leading her wore a helmet that covered his face. It was familiar.“Hyperlaser?” Scythe asked. The guard stiffened, but nodded his head.“Glad you remember me.” He led her into a tent near the middle. “How’s Katana? I haven’t heard from him in a while. We normally would write but…” Hyperlaser trailed off.“He’s uhm… he’s good.” Scythe hoped she sounded believable. “He just has to stay home for safety reasons.”“Makes sense.” Hyperlaser opened up the tent flaps. “They should be in here. If not, alert me immediately.”“Yes sir.” Scythe went inside the tent and scoped it out. Near the back of it she saw Medkit and Subspace. The two were playing with some crystals. “You two.” They looked up at her. “You're coming home with me. Let’s go.”They quickly got up and ran to her side. Subspace started to talk. “Are we going to the Lost Temple? I wanna see the gear workshop you guys have!”“Only for a small amount of time.” Scythe led them out of the tent. “You’re going to be escorted by someone else back to Blackrock. I’m sure your parents miss you.”Medkit rolled his eyes. Subspace nodded.“Listen to Rifle now!” Hyper laser used Scythe’s fake name, as it was the required name he had to use when out in public.Medkit and Subspace made sounds of agreement as the followed the outlaw out of the camp.—----------------------------------------Turns out Banhammer was great with tweens, as well as kids. He kept them out of Scythe’s way as she navigated the desert, and was able to keep them entertained well enough.Eventually though, Medkit made his way up to Scythe. His green horns were caught in the corner of her eye.“Hey Medkit.” Scythe greeted him. “What do ya’ need?”“Some time away from him.” Medkit pointed to Subspace.“That’s fair.” Scythe continued push on through the sand. Medkit trailed closely behind.“What’s the big one doing here?”“He’s just here for fun.” Scythe looked back for a second.“Oh.” Medkit looked between the two. “Are you two dating?”Scythe stopped dead in her tracks. She looked down at Medkit, and made sure her pupil was a thin slit, her tail rattled. “No, and don’t ever ask me that question again.”Medkit shook a little, but nodded his head yes.“Good!” Scythe returned to her normal state. She continued to walk on. But, she also thought. Banhammer and her would never be friends. What they had right now was just a facade. Banhammer had to be faking it, and so was she. He was the warden-to-be, and she was a cult leader to be.Subspace ran over now, causing Medkit to back off near Banhammer.“Your brother makes gears right?”“Yes.” Scythe said curtly.“Do you think he could make me a bag, to keep my trip mines in?” The little demon spawned one in his palm. “I can control when they go off, but it would be nice not to have to spawn them all the time.”Scythe inspected the small bomb. Carefully moving it in her palm. “I can see what he can do.”Subspace smiled and clapped his hands together, causing the mine to go off. A puff of pink smoke went up in Scythe’s face. She could hear Subspace try and stifle a giggle.“I’m sorry miss-” was all he got out before erupting into a laughing fit. Banhammer marched his way up to see what was going on.“Did you do this?” He asked the little demon.“It was a mistake! I swear!” Subspace quickly tried to defend himself. Scythe was busy wiping the soot off her face to care.“Are you okay?” Medkit went up to Scythe. “His trip mines can get a little out of control.”“I’m all good.” Scythe grinned. Her glove was practically a dark gray now.Medkit nodded and turned to look at Banhammer and Subspace, who were arguing.“You totally did it on purpose!” Banhammer went to grab Subspace's arm.“No! I swear! Wait- Not that one!” Subspace quickly jerked his arm away.“Banny.” Scythe snapped at the larger demon. He whipped his head up at the sound of the nickname. “It was an accident. I’m fine, he’s fine, we’re all fine.”“But-”“Let’s just keep chugging on.” Scythe turned back in the direction they were heading. The others trailed behind her.—------------------------------------------Scythe stopped a mile outside of the city gates. She turned to look at Banhammer. “You should get going now. You aren’t really a fan favorite among the demons in there.”He sighed, but nodded. “Alright, well good bye!” Banhammer waved to Scythe, then to the Blackrock demons. “Stay out of trouble!” And he was off.Scythe returned her attention to Subspace and Medkit. “Alright you two.” She started to walk toward the city gates. “Let’s go see who’s bringing you home.”—--------------------------------------------------------Scythe waved off the little Blackrock demons. Broker ws standing next to her, a note in his hands.“What’s that for?” Scythe asked once the escorts were gone.“Gear repair info.” Broker adjusted his leather apron before walking back into the temple. Scythe followed him in.“I didn’t see Zuka at the camp, sorry.” Scythe said.“I suppose. I think he’s near Playground’s border.” Broker fiddled with the note, his hands shaking. “The last few letters he sent me seemed pretty straight forward. I think he’s mad at me.”“Why would he be mad at you?” Scythe held the shop door open for Broker, who nodded in thanks.“I’ve been sending more letters than usual before, maybe he’s annoyed?” Broker sighed.“Well, maybe he’s worried about the war. I doubt Zuka could ever be mad at you.” Scythe grinned.“I guess.” Broker huffed a little. He picked up the note and opened it up. “Guess what I get to work on.” He grinned.“Another ranged weapon?”“Ding ding ding!” Broker spun around in the chair. “Seriously though, does Blackrock produce any mele demons?”Scythe laughed. “I guess not.” She took her usual seat in the back corner of the shop to watch Broker work.Before any of them could get to comfy, a knock on the door was heard. Broker got up to answer.“Letter for Broker?” The mailman said. A large envelope was in his hands.“That’s me.” Broker took it and closed the door. He inspected the envelope. “Scythe!” He ran over to his sister. “This is Zuka’s handwriting!”Scythe grinned. “Open it up then!”Broker tore open the paper, letting it fall to the ground. The actual letter was still in his grasp though. Broker opened it up and started to read it aloud.“Dear Broker, I’ve been stationed at the Playground border for about a week now. I have been given orders to take my troops closer. I fear, however, that Playground will retaliate against us. We can not afford to lose anyone in the camp yet. Please, stay safe out there Broker. I expect to see you again soon. Highest regards, B. Zuka.” Broker stared at it for a few seconds before folding it up.“See, he’s fine.” Scythe patted her brother’s back.“Yea, Zuka’s all good.” Broker smiled. “I should get started on my return letter.”

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Katana rushed between the crowded tents. Recently, Playground had taken a harsh blow by Blackrock. He knew the troop was led by Zuka, but he didn’t know that they had that much power.He handed the gauze to Vinestaff, a healer demon. She had been stationed with him at the camp. Her little brother Shuriken was safe at home.Vinestaff smiled gratefully at the package. “Thank you, Katana. Your efforts are appreciated.” She returned to planting sprouts in the ground.“As are yours.” Katana bowed and rushed back out. The troop he had been assigned to waited for him near the exit.“Katana!” One of them called out. “We have word of targets moving through the desert, should we go?”Katana nodded. “I’ll lead, stay close behind.” He spawned his gear and the other demons followed him out.—-------------------------------------------------------------------Katana waded through the sand. If his memory served him correct, his group was rounding the dune hills. If they kept this pace up, they would be at the top soon. He turned to give the “lay low” signal with his hand. The group stopped, and allowed Katana to make the final steps up the hill.He looked out into the dunes, he could see four figures making their way through the sand. Katana pulled out his pocket telescope. After adjusting it, he could see who was walking clearly now.Two small demons, and two larger ones. His heart dropped when he moved the scope over to the right. In the lens stood his sister, Scythe, a small trip mine exploded in her face. She seemed unphased by it though. The larger demon stomped into frame, and Katana’s heart stopped. Banhammer was standing there now. He was shaking a clawed finger at the pink horned demon, who looked like he was saying sorry.Katana put down the telescope, folding it up and placing it in its holder. He turned on his heel and returned to the group.“No sign of anything. We can rest easy tonight.” He reported. The demons all nodded and sighed.“Must’ve been a false alarm.” One of them said.There were sounds of agreement. Katana started to lead them back to the camp.—-----------------------------------------------“You saw her, didn’t you?” Vinestaff whispered. It was night, and Katana was sitting with the healer outside, enjoying some tea.“So what if I did? Is it so cruel to spare her life?” He snapped.“It’s not cruel.” Vinestaff reassured him. “I would’ve done the same.” She took a sip from her cup.“Thank you…” Katana drank as well. “I saw the sky child out there as well.”“The one who fell off the cliffs?” Vinestaff laughed. “That was a funny story.”Katana smiled. “After that he kept bothering Scythe, and he couldn’t even figure out that it was her who had been going from town to town harvesting horns and lives.” His smile faded.Vinestaffed thought for a second. “It is a rather funny thought now that you say it.” Some flowers bloomed around her. “Oh rats.” She started to pluck them.“Why do you pick your flowers?” Katana stopped laughing.“If we move camps, I would hate to have Blackrock track us with them.” She threw the flower heads a little aways. Katana nodded. “Shuri likes the flowers though…” Vinestaff trailed off.—--------------------------------------Katana shuffled through the crowded tent. His horns were growing out now, and it was difficult to move around with them. He had been used to his trimmined down horns back at the temple. But now, in a desperate effort to forget his past, he was letting them grow out. The same for his fur. Thank the Seer for his thicker fur. When he made it out of the tent he saw a commander standing in the center of the camp. It sounded like he was giving orders, or telling a new plan. Katana inched closer.“We have sights on a new target!” He declared. “A Blackrock camp has packed up and is advancing towards Playground territory. If we are able to intercept them, we could drive them away. It will be a rigorous journey, but worth it if we succeed.” The commander raised a fist in the air.The surrounding demons all cheered. Katana clapped softly. He was unsure if he would be picked for this trek, though, he wouldn’t be surprised if he was.Katana was a tank, there was doubt about it. He had skill and experience with his gear, and even more in the desert. He was an asset for any troop he was put on.Vinestaff pushed her way through the crowd to stand near Katana. He greeted her with a nod.“I’m returning home tomorrow.” She said, “Shuriken is still a child, and with our parents being here, he needs to be watched. Along with the other children.”“I understand. Do you need an escort?” Katana had always wanted to see the Theive’s den. It was where he was planning on running too after all.“I should be okay, I can handle myself. Besides,” She raised her partially wooden arm, “I have this. It worked on your sister did it not?” The healer did a quick laugh.Katana grinned and nodded. “Yea, I guess you’re right.”A soldier came up behind them and tapped Katana on the shoulder. He turned around.“Yes?”“Commander Hot Potato wishes for you to join the troop. We plan on heading out tomorrow to maximize our time.”Katana bowed his head. “I’d be honored.”“Great! See you soon!” The soldier smiled and trotted off.“You know who might be there, do you?” Vinestaff had a worried look on her face.Katana shook his head. “Who?”“Hyperlaser.”

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Silver King threw his hands over the balcony rails. His back was slouched, and his glass eye was dangling off his robes. He dropped his head. Eyebrows knit together, he sent up a prayer to the Seer.“Oh Seer… Please, watch over my people as they fight alongside the Blackrockers.” He folded his hands together, knuckles turning white. “Keep my son safe, wherever he may be, and guide him back home to the light. Amen.”Silver King lifted his head, and looked at the night sky. He adjusted his crown a little.The door opened behind him, and out stepped his wife.“Dear…” She came up and put a hand on his shoulder. “What troubles you?”“Katana hasn’t been spotted, and I’m starting to fear the worst.” Silver King turned to look at her.“Our son is strong. I’m sure he’s fine.” She smiled. “Just come back inside and get some rest.”Silver King pushed his wife away. “I don’t need rest! “I need the only child fit enough to run this damned place back!” He balled his fists up and turned sharply to look back over the railing. “Broker might as well be shipped off to Blackrock with how much he dinks around with gears, and Scythe…” He took in a sharp breath. “She must’ve been a warning from Seer. A bad omen.”“Don’t say that about her…” Sliver King’s wife huffed. “She’s trying.”“Oh, you can’t act like you’re so righteous!” He whipped his head around to face her. “You were the one to bring up the idea of chopping off her arm!” Silver King started to mock his wife. “Let’s just cut off her arm! That’ll teach him a lesson!” He stopped. “Well it didn’t fucking teach Katana ANYTHING!”Some crows took off, calling into the night. Silver King’s wife stood static. She was frozen in shock. The night stayed still. Her eye was wide. She slowly adjusted her robes. “I see you need a little more time to calm down. I’ll be inside.” She quickly walked back into the temple.Silver King was fuming. All he wanted was a proper heir. Was that so much to ask?—----------------------------------------------Broker was adding the finishing touches to the gun he’d been commissioned to work on. There were some more boxes behind him, all housing finished gears.He smiled and flipped up his scope when he finally finished. Broker stood up from his work stool to go retrieve the box and re-package the gear. Once he did that, they would be picked up, and his office would be clear once again.Broker turned his head to the door when he heard some stomping in the halls. It stopped for a second, and the door swung open. Broker jumped and nearly dropped the gear.His father was holding onto the door knob so harshly that Broker was afraid it would break off.“Father, what do you require?” Broker nervously bowed his head.“I need you to send a message your little Blackrock boyfriend-”Broker coughed suddenly. “Uhm, heh, uhm… boyfriend? I don’t swing that way!”“Yea, whatever, just send the fucking message.” Silver King waved his hand. “Tell him that he needs to take Katana captive, then deliver him to us. If he can manage this, then we can pay him handsomely. Ok?”Broker was shaking a little, but nodded. “Yes father, I can write that.”“Good! Maybe you aren’t so useless!” Silver King came up and patted Broker’s back. “Now get back to work.” And he was out the door.Broker put the gear down, and quickly looked for the box.Once he retrieved it, he packaged the gun and closed it up. He then rushed out to find some pen and paper.There was thankfully some paper in his room, along with a pen. Broker found an unfinished letter addressed to Zuka, so he just decided to use that. He scribbled some more words, and then added at the bottom what his father had told him. Broker shoved the letter into it’s envelope and licked the seal shut.Running, he went to Scythe’s room and knocked three times on the door.“What?” He heard from the other side.“I’m going out for a bit! Sending the gears off! I’ll be back by tomorrow night.” Broker tapped his heels.“Alright, don’t die.” Scythe said.“No promises!”—--------------------------------------------------Broker signed his name on the clip board. The Blackrock demons who were in charge of mailing things out were so specific. “Sign here! No, here, oh, and here, and one more right here…” It would never end.“That’s all?” Broker asked, pen still in hand.The demon flipped the clipboard around and shuffled through the papers. “Yep, that’s all. Thank you for your service.” The demon closed the truck’s bed door and patted it. Broker was still confused about the automobile. He had always known that the Lost Temple was behind on tech development. The truck sputtered to life, causing Broker to jump. It drove away through the sand, kicking up clouds as it went.The meeting spot was further away from the temple, so he decided to camp here for the night.There were some other demons strewn about the raggedy place. Some from Blackrock, others from the Lost Temple. Broker sighed and found an empty tent to settle down in.After messing around with the torn sleeping bag, Broker found himself lulling off into sleep.—--------------------------------------------------Dunes shifted around Broker. Sand snaked around his feet. The demon looked up, and saw someone standing on a pedestal. No sand dared to touch the pillar. Broker started to walk forward, but his feet felt weighed down.Eventually though, Broker made it to the platform. He reached up to try and grab at it, but a pair of hands came over the edge, and grabbed his. A familiar face then peered over. Zuka smiled and grasped Broker’s wrists harder.“Need help?” His voice was garbled, but Broker could still tell what was being said.“If you insist.” Broker couldn’t hear himself, but faintly felt his lips move. He could feel his feet start to be lifted out of the sand. He smiled back at Zuka. “Golly, you’re strong.”Broker was half way up now. Zuka was smiling widely. But his grip started to loosen on Broker’s left arm. His vision was blurry, and details were hard to make out, but he could feel himself fall back into the sand.“ZUKA?” He thrashed around in the sand, blinking rapidly. There was no response. Funnily enough, Broker could still feel Zuka’s grip on his left wrist. Had the bastard grown longer arms?His vision cleared, and he looked up at the pedestal. Blood was pouring from one side. Broker could feel himself opening his mouth, trying to scream, but nothing came out. He looked down. Zuka’s hand was clasped tightly around his wrist, the arm protruding out.Broker fell back down, and tried to pry the limb off. It stayed put though. Broker started to feel the sand surrounding him, going up to his chest. He looked back up at the pillar. Nothing was there anymore, just a pool of blood. The sand rose up more and Broker felt it go into his mouth. It was flooding everywhere.—-----------------------------------Broker woke up in a cold sweat. He quickly looked down at his wrist, but there was no hand. There was barely any sand around him at all. Just the cloth walls of the tent, and the ripped sleeping bag. The cold air flowed into the tent. It was still night.Broker took a deep breath. He shifted around before leaving the tent.Stepping out into the open, he sighed.There were some other demons awake. Some were smoking, others were writing letters.Maybe Broker should write another one to Zuka, it’s not like the bastard was dead afterall.

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XX/XX/XXXXDear Zuka,I hope this letter finds you in good health. I pray to Seer that you respond within a timely manner, but if you are out at battle, I will offer a two week grace period.I had the strangest dream last night, you know? I was in the desert, but the sand was pooling all around me! You were on a platform though. I tried to climb up, and you did help me, but your arm fell off. I think it was just the worry worms eating my brain again.I’m sure you’ll return from this skirmish as your usual self.Oh, and one more thing. In the previous letter I sent, where I requested for you to keep and eye out for Katana. Void it. My brother deserves some peace.-Best wishes, Broker.—----------------------Scribbled on a sticky note in messy purple ink was:9pm, nearest southeast town. Be there or be square.—---------------------XX/XX/XXXXDear Broker,Your letter has reached me in good health, so no need to fret! I hope the mail doesn’t clog up again. I will void your request with great pleasure, as I really don’t have the time to be looking for Katana.That dream you had sounds odd. Though, let’s be real, I don’t think I’ll be losing any limbs today, or tomorrow. Hell, I think when we meet again, I won’t even have a scratch on me! B. Zuka is just too cool. You have an odd brain afterall, Broker, so I wouldn’t doubt it was the worms. (do you actually have worms eating your brain? Please say no.)Anyways, I have to return to helping my men now. Please take care.-B. Zuka(Ps. your gear alterations are a huge hit!)—-----------------------------Scythe looked at the crumpled note in her hand. She looked up at the demolished town in front of her. If she had read the map right, this was the nearest Southeast town. Sighing, she trotted into the ruin.Banhammer was standing in the middle of the street. A grin was plastered on his face.“You came!”“Of course I did, meathead. There’s only one demon I know with handwriting this bad.” Scythe shoved the note in his face.“Hey! I think my handwriting is just fine!” Banhammer swiped the paper, and tossed it on the ground. “Not like yours is any better.”“I’m practically illiterate, so I have an excuse.” Scythe teased.“Whatever.” The demigod grumbled. “I have something to show you, come.”Scythe rolled her eye and followed Banhammer to the back of the town.—---------------------XX/XX/XXXXDear Zuka,No, there are no worms eating my brain. I promise. I am glad to hear you are well and fine, and I’m positive that it will stay that way for the remainder of the war. Still, please take care of yourself, and your gear. I really don't want to see it in my shop. Speaking of, I’m glad to hear the Blackrockers like my alterations! I don’t have much to report on, unfortunately, so this letter is a little bland. Please keep me updated when you can!-Best wishes, Broker.—----------------------Banhammer busted down an old door. Scythe knew it was for dramatic effect. The building was damp, and dark.“What’s so cool about this place?” she asked.“You’ll see!” Banhammer clapped his hands together. He scrambled around, looking for a lantern. “You desert demons are so behind on today's technology!”“Trust me,” Scythe mumbled. “We’re behind on a lot of stuff.”“Yea… I can tell- AHA!” Banhammer lifted up an old lamp proudly. After tinkering with it (and almost breaking it) the thing fluttered to life. The surrounding area lit up. The building was empty, except for a few chairs and tables. Scythe could tell this must’ve been an old restaurant. From the way the bar was placed, to the small stage in the back.“And this is so exciting because?” She looked to Banhammer, who was smiling like a child.“Because there’s a stage!” He ran up to the old platform. He stepped up onto it. The boards creeked underneath the demon’s weight. “You think this would be stable for two little spawnlings?”“Well if it hasn’t cracked yet, I’d say yea.” Scythe took her hand and knocked on the wood a few times. “Why?” She hoisted herself up onto it as well.“My little cousins, Mic and Mega, like to perform. But, we don’t know really any place with an actual stage that isnt being taken up by professionals. Banhammer smiled. “I was thinking I could take them here, and you could be like a look out!”“For what? I don’t think any demon is gonna cross paths with you.” Scythe shifted her weight.“Well, what if one does huh?” Banhammer crossed his arms.“Then fight em off! You’re strong enough for that.”“Just, be here next week at 3pm. No later! Mic and Mega start their performances on the dot!” Banhammer huffed.Scythe held back a laugh, but nodded. “Alright. But you're buying the tickets.”—--------------------------XX/XX/XXXXDear Broker,It is with a heavy heart that I must tell you some news. My writing privileges have been revoked after I tried sending one of the commanders of Playground a note. They know I am no spy, and they even read the damn thing! But rules are rules. I just wanted to tell the fella that his troop was weak and we were gonna beat them into the ground! This is the last letter they are letting me send out, so I chose to send it off to you. Don’t write back, and they will most likely rip it up.I’ll be back before you know it!-B. Zuka(PS. Hyperlaser has been whining about Katana and it’s starting to get ANNOYING)—---------------------------Scythe met Banhammer at the front door of the old restaurant. He was waiting with his arms crossed.“It’s 3pm, isn’t it?” Scythe stepped up onto the porch.Banhammer shrugged. “I suppose.” He walked in through the doorway, Scythe followed.Inside the building, lanterns had been placed on all the standing stables. They were elegant, and clearly not from anywhere in the Lost Temple. One table had two chairs set up at it. It was right in the middle.“That’s our table.” Banhammer pointed at it. “My cousins are backstage. They’ll start when they’re ready.”Scythe nodded. They both took a seat at the round table. Scythe propped her elbow up on it.“This is funny.” She laughed.“Hey, this performance is no laughing matter. They work hard on their songs.” Banhammer mimicked Scythe by propping his elbows up.“No, not the kids. This.” She pointed a figure at Banhammer, then back at her. “You keep hanging around instead of doing whatever the hell you had originally wanted to do.”
“Well-” Banhammer put his head in his hands. “I think I deserve a break.”Scythe rolled her eye. “Whatever you say.”Banhammer grumbled a few incoherent words before snapping his head up. He heard his little cousins blabbering backstage, it sounded like arguing. “Might be a bit.” He whispered.“Fine with me.” Scythe shrugged.A few seconds of silence went by. Banhammer opened his mouth to speak, but he was interrupted by Mic and Mega bursting through the torn curtains.“HELLO!” Mic screamed in true child fashion. His older brother Mega cringed back. “We are the flipside brothers!” He spawned in his gear, a yellow microphone appeared.Mega spawned in his own gear, a megaphone.Scythe tapped her leg as a way to clap, while Banhammer was full on cheering and whistling.Mic smiled and jumped around. “Let’s get this show started!”—--------------------------------------The brothers struck a final pose. Banhammer whooped and cheered loudly, while Scythe banged her fist on the table, trying her best to imitate clapping.Mic laughed and hopped off the stage, he waited for his brother to slowly step down. The yellow demon then ran over to Banhammer.“That was amazing!” Banhammer scooped Mic up in a large hug.Mic laughed and tried to break out, but his resistance was futile.Mega silently stepped over to Scythe, his weight leaning onto his cane.“You’re Banhammer’s friend?” His voice was quiet.“You could say that. You make that music?” Scythe nodded at his speaker.“Yea. It’s not much though. Whatever makes my little brother happy.” Mega looked over at Banhammer and Mic.“Well it’s something.” Scythe smiled. “You guys are pretty good.”Mega gave her a weak smile. “Thanks.”—-----------------------Scythe opened the door. She had seen Broker’s shop lights on, so she assumed he was still up. There were sounds of drilling. She saw her brother wearing his leather apron and gloves, working on what looked like another type of gun. She waited patiently near the entrance.Broker stopped drilling, and turned around. “Scythe! Happy to see you’re home. Where’d you run off today?”“I went to one of the old harvest spots. Wanted to see if anything interesting was there.”“Was there?” Broker laid down the drill.“Nah, just bodies.” Scythe waved her hand. “Just wanted to stop in and say hi, I’ll be heading to bed now.”“Noted.” Broker smiled and waved his sister goodbye. He returned to his drilling.Scythe closed the shop door and started to head to her room. The halls were narrow. She had always hated how small they made the temple. Up ahead, she could see her mother.Her mother stopped Scythe just outside her room.“Scythe.” She said.“What?” Scythe put her hand on her hip. Her mother looked down.“I am to be retired next week. I need you to know how sorry I am.” She hung her head low.“Sorry?” Scythe raised a brow. “It’s gonna take you a lot more than ‘sorry’ to get my prayers.” She pushed past her mother and stormed into her room. Typical. Her mother was a coward. Afraid of eternal punishment.What the hell was wrong with this family. Cowards, every single one of them.

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In a room packed with demons, all missing an eye, Silver King stood tall on the stage. On his right side, Broker stood. And on his left, Scythe stood. He bent down so he could whisper to them.“Try to act sad.” It was quick, and blunt, and the king stood up tall once more.Broker nodded, Scythe just tapped her boot.“My people!” Silver King raised his arms to the sky. “The time has come for my lovely wife to retire.”Broker looked down at his shoes. He had thought they would try again, for a more sufficient heir, or maybe Katana would’ve been found in time. But it was clear, the line had snapped, and Silver King was starting to spiral himself.“She has done her duty, by making an heir for my position. And like my mother, and my father’s mother, she will join them in the good graces of our dear Overseer.” Silver King backed up, and put a hand on his son’s shoulder. “Any words you would like to speak, Broker?”Broker shook his head. What would’ve he said? How much she favored Katana, or how his first memory was a cold and dark room?“Scythe?” Silver King turned to her.“No.” Scythe tapped her foot again.“Very well! Let the ceremony begin.”—--------------------Broker and Scythe watched from the side of the stage. Scythe leaned in to say something quietly.“You know,” She glanced at their parents. “I prayed last night.”“We all pray, that’s nothing new.” Broker replied. His gaze was focused on the ceremony.“No, Broker. I prayed to the Swords.”Broker whipped his head to look at Scythe. “You what!?” His eye widened.“I asked them to damn her to an eternal life of suffering. She doesn’t deserve to be with the Seer. Not after what she did to me.” Scythe hissed. Her tail rattle for a few seconds before Broker grabbed it, silencing it.“Well, I hope they listened to you.” He returned to watching the ceremony. By now, they were most likely at the part where Scythe and him would have to get up to say their final goodbyes. Retirement was never easy.Silver King walked slowly over to where his kids were.“Go say your goodbyes, and make them count.” He patted Scythe’s shoulder, and whispered. “And don’t yell. These are private messages.”“Yea, yea.” Scythe grumbled, but got up and followed her brother to the center of the stage. Their mother was standing there, in light green robes. A veil was over her head, and her horns were adorned with gold jewelry.“My children.” She outstretched her arms. “I’m sure you will do grand things in your lives.” Broker could see a tear start to well up in her eye. “And if you find Katana, please tell him that I loved him dearly.”Scythe stepped forward to speak. “We’ll tell him. I’m sure he’d be thrilled to hear of your pardon.”Broker sighed, then spoke as well. “It won’t be the same without you.”“Yea,” Scythe smiled. “We’ll actually get a good night’s sleep now.”Broker jabbed her with his own tail, causing his sister to grumble. “We slept just fine.”Silver King appeared, and carted both kids away. “Time’s up! I hope you made your words meaningful.”Broker and Scythe took their places at the side of the stage. Silver King spoke a few more words, before requesting all the spawnlings leave.It was time.—-----------------------------Their mother knelt down. Silver King held a long sharp blade. Scythe was smiling, while Broker was turned the other way.“Your service was appreciated.” Silver King took one final look at his wife, and struck the blade down on her neck.Her body stayed knelt for a few seconds, before falling over. Her head rolled off to the left, blood trailing right behind.Scythe smiled. It was sickening, but worth it. Broker winced when he looked back at the sight.“Why do they call it retirement?” He asked.“So the spawnlings don’t get scared.” Scythe replied. The blade was dropped to the ground, and Silver King said some final parting words. Servants rushed out from the other side to clean up the mess.The crowd dispersed. Scythe watched them all shuffle out of the door. Broker looked at their mother’s body being lifted.“She didn’t seem worried.” He whispered.“Why would she? She had no idea she would be sent to damnation.” Scythe huffed.“Maybe she wasn’t?” Broker suggested.Scythe muttered a few curse words before turning on her heel and storming off.—------------------------------Up in The Heights, Windforce was watching the diamondback rattlesnake slither into her temple.Widnforce leaned forward on her throne.“Oh?” She questioned. “What is a desert creature doing here?” She picked up the reptile in her claws. “I think you’re in the wrong temple.” She snickered. “Can’t find your god?”The snake slithered, and rattled its tail. Windforce understood then.“Speak. Let me hear your prayer.” She set it down. It coiled up, and a prayer was given to the weather goddess.“Windforce, Sword of the sky, please do whatever you can to make sure my mother receives eternal damnation. She doesn’t deserve to live a life with Overseer, not after what she’s done-” Windforce slammed a fist down onto the snake. The animal quickly slithered away.“CULTIST! You dare try and pray to me?!” She bared her teeth. “But,” a wicked grin grew on her face. “The idea of eternal damnation for one of them does sound enjoyable.” Windforce sat back down on her throne. “I will grant this prayer. Send it up to Darkheart.”A large bird swooped down and picked up the snake. It cawed a few times before flying up through the sky hole.“Now, where’s my son?”—-------------------------------------------Scythe dropped a small coin into the glass jar. It made a satisfying clink as it collided with the other coins.Broker was standing behind.“What are you doing?” He asked.“I add a coin every week. So that when I die, whoever is still with me has something to use.” Scythe grabbed the lid and screwed it on.“What do you mean by that? You're saying you’ll be the breadwinner?” Broker snorted. “Fat chance in this faction.”“Well, there’s a first for everything!” Scythe flicked her brother on the nose. “Besides, I think I could make it big as a hit-man in Blackrock. They’ve always seemed shady anyways.”Broker ruffled Scythe’s hair in return. “I think you’re better suited for the desert.”“Whatever man.” Scythe grinned. “It’s better to start a fund now than later.”“So like a retirement fund?” Broker asked.“Yea, like that.”The two siblings laughed and continued to mess around in the temple. Tonight felt more uplifting than other nights. Maybe, just maybe, the Swords had listened for once, and the two were granted a night of peace.

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Katana shuffled around in the sand. He would kick it, and some fell in his boots. Swishing his tail angrily, Katana took off his boot to empty out the sand.The rest of the troop was busy setting up camp, and he had been sent out to be a scout. Thankfully though this allowed his horn dye to dry. A while ago Katana had taken up dyeing his horns red. It was an uncommon practice back at the temple, but he would do whatever it took to distance himself from them.They were near the Playground border, but not close enough to draw suspicion. Katana shoved his boot back on, forcing his talons to conform into the harsh shape of it.That would be the only thing he missed about the Lost Temple. His father had special boots tailored for him, or he would let Katana go barefoot. But the boots he had brought from the Lost Temple had the cult’s symbol on them, and he would rather conform to the harsh shapes for a few years than be chained down to his past.“Katana!” Commander Hot Potato’s voice ran through the air. Katana stood up straight and started to head off towards the camp.“Yes sir?” He asked, nearing the entrance. The commander stood tall a few feet away.“Any enemies spotted now?”“No sir. All clear.” Katana bowed.“Perfect.” The commander went into the camp and started to round up soldiers. From the way he was talking and moving his hands, it looked like he was setting up a mock battle. Katana knew he wouldn’t be asked to participate, just to observe. His skill in battle was superb, especially in his own territory.As he guessed, Hot Potato trotted over to Katana and started to speak.“I don’t want you injuring my guys, so can you sit this one out?” He folded his hands politely.“Of course, you know I don’t mind.” Katana smiled, he could feel his scar crinkle up.“Thanks man!” Hot Potato clapped the large demon on the back. A wide smile spread across his face. “Y’know,” The commander’s face fell a little. His gaze drifted up to Katana’s horns. “You remind me of someone.”“Oh? Who?” Katana grew a light smile.“An old…” Hot Potato paused. “An old friend who left a while back to do some waterproofing work in the desert. He loved helping other demons too. I haven’t heard from him in a while though…”Katana’s heart dropped.He had a hunch on who he was being compared too.—-----------------------------------------------A stray foam dart landed next to Katana. Quickly, he jumped out of the way before it exploded. Nerf was a skilled shooter, especially with his bullets aiming more for surprise attacks than damaging ones. Katana found a new place to sit and watch though.Mock battles were always a joy. One team would try to mimic Blackrock’s fighting style, while the other team continued to fight in Playground’s.Bombs were thrown, hot potatoes flew, and some of the melee weapons clashed.Katana shifted his talons in his boots. He moved a clawed hand to take them off. The boots took some excessive pulling, but they both finally came off. The leather falling into the sand caused it to shift around.His talons spread out, sand moved over them. Katana sighed. He flopped over into the sand, letting it get in his fur.He would miss this. He had been to the Theives' den, and the hills were a nice place, but the sand would always be home.He heard yelling, and sat up. The mock battle was done, and Hot Potato was rounding everyone up.Katana stood, and stretched. He walked a few steps and picked up his boots. Sliding down the dune he had been standing on and followed the group.He could hear chatter of congratulations, and demons shaking hands.Katana towered over the Playground demons. Their short stature was comical. One of them, Katana forgot their name, looked up at him.“Hey big guy! Excited for the raid tonight?” They adjusted their gear.“Yes. I’m sure we’ll be successful.” Katana smiled softly.—----------------------------------------------The cool night air served its purpose. The demons all slinked around, going a long way as to not be spotted by the Blackrock camp.Katana was crouched the furthest, and he could feel some Playgrounder’s unnecessarily close to him. He assumed that they were using him as a shield.Katana put his hands on the handle of his sword. He could see the lanterns in the distance. It was a trick tactic. Make them believe they were there. Katana flicked his tail and stopped, the others followed.“There is no one at the camp. If there was, the lights would be off. They’ve crossed the border.” Katana whispered. “We keep moving.” He marched on.The sands started to shift into flatter terrain. Rocks jutted out. They were at the border.Katna watched as the Playgrounder’s scattered off and easily hopped over the stones. Katana took his time climbing over them.When they reached the other side, the Playgrounder’s took off. Katana ran along with them. He unsheathed his sword and carried it to the side. The blade sliced through the wind easily.“Katana!” One of the demons yelled. “They’re up over there!”Katana gave a firm nod and looked to where the demon had been pointing. Up in one of the trees, there was a sniper. Katana knew it wasn't Hyperlaser, or Zuka, so he turned to take care of it.He scaled the tree quickly, and landed among the thick branches. The Blackrock demon turned around, their gun pointed straight at Katana.Katana moved swiftly, he sliced through the air, causing the demon to stumble due to knockback. Before they could fall out of the tree, Katana grabbed them with his talons.“Where is the sniper, Hyperlaser.” He hissed.The demon writhed around before answering. “Up, near the battle. I was sent out to shoot at backup from Playground.”“Thank you.” Katana let go of them. They fell down on their back on the ground. Leaves and dust scattered up.Katana jumped down from the tree. The impact left him static for a few seconds, but he was quick to get back to running again.—-------------------------------------The thick of the battle was brutal. There were mostly bombs and bullets. The Playgrounders were fast, but Blackrock’s modified guns were faster.Katana surveyed the area. They were in an old housing district. Trees and concrete collided here. Katana looked up to the far back, and saw Hyperlaser. A wash of relief went over Katana.Hopefully, the sniper would see him too.—-Katana took a wild swing at one of the Blackrock demons on the ground. They screamed when he pulled them back into the fight zone by the collar.A bullet landed next to Katana, it caused the small patch of grass next to him to fizzle out. Katana dropped the demon to go find someone else.Moving through the battle, he saw Hot Potato throwing his bombs at a group of Blackrockers. Katana went in to aid the commander.Slashing his sword a few times, Katana pushed back the enemies. So this was their tactic? Flood the commander and force the others to leave.“Throw your bombs to the back! That’s where the strongest ones are!” Katana hollered.Hot Potato nodded, and spawned in a larger bomb. His eyes scanned the back before he threw it. Katana watched the bomb soar through the air.His heart dropped. It was flying right towards Hyperlaser.Katana wanted to scream. He wanted to run to the sniper, but he couldn’t. The sound of a gun firing rang through his ears.“COMMANDER!” Katana heard someone scream. He looked back.Hot Potato had a large hole in his chest. Blood was pouring out from it, a bomb was still grasped in his hands.The bombe from before went off. It's explosion deafening.Screams and confusion started to erupt from both sides.Katana stood still. There was a ringing in his ears. He could see his allies start to crowd Hot Potato. He pushed passed them all, and grabbed the commander in his arms. His eyes wer glossed over, a loopy smile plastered on his face. Blood poured out from the wound. There was no mistake Hyperlaser had fired a bullet through the chest.“Hot Potato-” Katana was cut off.“I know I’ll die.” The commander’s smile stayed put. “If that means I get to see him again. Then I’m happy.”Katana’s jaw fell open. He looked up to where Hyperlaser was-A crumpled body lay, on the verge of falling off its pillar. Katana wanted to scream. He wanted to drop Hot Potato and run over to catch him.Hyperlaser fell. A sicking crack was heard when his body hit the ground.Hot Potato grinned. “Win this war.” He grabbed Katana’s horn, pulling the bladesmen back to his alley. “Babe…?”Katana blinked, confused.He heard the frightened screams of Blackrock soldiers.“HYPERLASER’S DOWN! RETREAT!”Playgrounders cheered, and began to chase out the other demons. Most stayed near Hot Potatoe's lifeless body though.Katana stayed still.Once again, he couldn’t do anything.

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Scythe trotted into the Blackrock camp. Medkit trailed behind her. His hands were folded, and the crystal in between his horns bobbed with his movements.There was barely any chatter throughout the place. Demons were hiding away in tents.Medkit ran up beside Scythe now, his hands floated down to his sides. They gripped the fabric of his waistband.“Don’t be nervous, Kit.” Scythe smiled.The younger demon nodded. “I haven’t been assigned a case this bad before.”“I can stay in the room with ya.” She turned right, in the direction of the medical bay.“Are you sure? I’ve heard it’s bad.” Medkit followed.“I’ll be able to handle it, don’t worry about it.” Scythe ruffled the shorter demon’s thick head fur. Medkit huffed, but stopped at the door of the medical tent. Scythe marched foreword. “C’mon Kit.” She opened one of the flaps. “You can do it.”The demon nodded, and confidently strode forward into the tent. Scythe followed in after.There he was. Hyperlaser. Lying peacefully on one of the shitty cots. His breathing was slow, and his broken helmet lay near the foot of the cot. The visor was shattered. Scythe looked up at his face. It was a mess. There were sloppy bandages covering it however. The top part of his uniform had been taken off, replaced with bandages.“Hyperlaser?” Scythe stepped forward. She spoke up as well. “It’s me, Scythe, and Medkit. We’re here to help you.”The sniper grunted. Scythe turned to the medic.“Nothing to be scared of. You were made for this.” She smiled.“Sometimes I wish I wasn’t.” Medkit grumbled. He walked over to the side of the cot and removed the bandages on Hyperlaser’s torso.There were burn wounds everywhere. They were too intense to not leave a scar afterwards. Medkit spawned his gear. He caught the first-aid kit gracefully and opened it up. Inside was a syringe and some other medical gear. He carefully got out the syringe, and put down the case.“This will hurt for a second.” Medkit said. He poked the needle into Hyperlaser’s chest. The sniper shifted for a second before relaxing again. Medkit pushed down on the syringe’s handle. Some of the fluid inside started to go into Hyperlaser’s body. The burn scars slowly started to heal themselves up.Scythe watched closely at the way the wounds came back together. Medkit slowly took the needle out. About half of the fluid was left in the holder.“That’s pretty neat.” Scythe grinned. “Think it could regrow an arm?” She wiggled her stump.Medkit widened his eyes. “Uhm, well… It’s already healed so..”“I’m kidding kid.” Scythe laughed. “I get by just fine.”The medic sighed. Then turned to look at Hyperlaser’s head. “Could you undo the bandages?”“Gladly.” Scythe walked up and carefully undid the face coverings.Hyperlaser’s face was a mess. There was no fur, only skin and tissue. Scythe heard Medkit gasp. It really was bad.“Gosh Hyperlaser.” Scythe frowned. “Playground really wasn’t messing around.”The sniper twitched.“Don’t exert yourself.” Medkit pushed Scythe away. “It will never heal fully. You're as good as blind.” Medkit injected the syringe. “I’m sorry.” He started to push the fluid into Hyperlaser’s face. The skin once again started to meet. Though, not completely. Bits and pieces did not make any attempt to reconnect with the other tissue. Medkit took out the syringe and put it in his kit.“His eyes are damaged, though not completely.” He closed the first aid kit and turned to Scythe. “I’m sure Subspace can help with that though.” Medkit grumbled.“You guys are pretty smart for like, 12 year olds.” Scythe laughed.“I’m 13 now. My birthday was last week. Subspace is still 12.” Medkit corrected. His mouth returned to a thin line. “Blackrock is lucky to have us.”“You can say that again.” She ruffled the shorter demon's hair. Medkit hissed and pried her hand off.“His horns are damaged too.” Medkit whispered. “No amount of crystal is going to fix it.”Scythe’s demeanor fell. Her hand fell to her side. “Both?” It was barely audible.“Yes, Scythe, both.” Medkit’s voice remained flat, and unwavered. “Stay here. I’ll let the commanders know.”The little demon walked out of the tent. Scythe stood in shock. She turned slowly to Hyperlaser’s body. It seemed like he would survive, but at the same time…His breathing was ragged. His clothes were torn. His horns were…Scythe couldn’t look. She had seen the wreckage caused by her own hands before. She had seen bodies mauled worse than his. But she could hear Katana’s voice. She could see her brother hunched over Hyperlaser’s body, crying. They had been close.The tent filled with light, breaking Scythe out of her thoughts. Axis, followed by Medkit, quickly ran into the tent.The Blackrock leader gasped at the sight of his prized sniper. He turned around and quickly grabbed Medkit by the arm, dragging him over to talk privately.Hushed whispers filled the tent. Scythe chose to drown them out. There was no need to eavesdrop. She took off the brown cowboy hat that was normally always perched on her head. A sign of solidarity. She turned so her back faced the ruined body.This was war. This happened. Stuff like this was normal. But something told Scythe it was wrong. Maybe it was the fact that she knew Katana and Hyperlaser were close. Or maybe…Scythe exited the tent curtly. She stamped her foot on the ground and cursed in the cult’s tongue. That DAMN demigod had fucked up her morals. She knew he was bad news, but Scythe was smart, so she also knew that getting on his bad side meant a wind storm.She threw on her hat, and started to storm out of the camp. Scythe could hear Medkit running after her.“Scythe! Wait!” He ran in front of her.The cultist pushed him away. “I have business to attend to. If you need an escort, arrange it later.” She continued on her march. Medkit groaned, but backed off.The camp guards let Scythe leave. No questions asked.She would’ve been beat, caught for thinking such ways. Pity? For traitors? That wasn’t allowed.Katana chose to leave. He chose to abandon the family. He was the whole reason Scythe was a mangled body now too.

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Awkward shadows were casted onto the sand. The moon shone between each wooden plank, causing small little beams to illuminate them. Limbs bent in all angles, mouths hung open, eyes and horns missing.The civilians of Marigold lay rotting in the streets. Their cries for help were just lost whispers in the wind.Underneath one of the few stable awnings, sat Scythe. Her legs were propped up on the railing, and she rocked ever so slightly in an old rocking chair. The soft moonlight was obscured by a familiar presence.“You came.” Scythe took her feet down from the railing, but remained seated.“You called.” The figure on the porch was obscured by shadows, but recognizable nonetheless. Banhammer took a few steps forward, and sat beside the rocking chair. “Why’d you come back here?”“I don’t feel like going home.” Scythe didn’t bother to look at the demigod.“Oh. Did something happen?”Why was he asking? Why did he care? She was the killer he had been looking for.“No.” Scythe lied. Something had happened. She experienced pity, for the first time. She pitied Katana, for having to deal with that mess. And it was all this lug’s fault. “I just don’t feel like going home.” Scythe huffed.Banhammer nodded. No more words were spoken between them. They just sat silently, and watched the moon stretch across the sky.The smell of rotting flesh filled her nostrils with each breath. Scythe was used to it, Banhammer was not.She could see how he shifted with every inhale. His tail twitched. He wanted to speak.Scythe decided it was best if she broke the silence. “Why do you stick around.”“What?” Banhammer turned to lock eyes with the criminal.“I’m not a good person Banhammer, I’m partaking in a war and-” She looked down, not wanting to even glance at Banhammer. Her hand drifted up to her missing eye. “I’m a part of the True Eye.”Banhammer’s face fell. “But you were just born into it, right?” He extended a clawed hand. “My momma told me stories of that cult.”“Uh, yeah.” She looked up at the hand. “My parents were a part of it, so naturally me and my brothers were raised among the cult.” It wasn’t a total lie.“Well, that’s not so bad. I think there are far worse demons than you.” Banhammer looked into the sky. “You should see the demons back home.”Scythe tilted her head. “You live in a crime filled city?”“No.” Banhammer shook his head. “I live in the Banlands. The prison there is crawling with killers and law breakers.”The cultist swallowed. “Sounds… fun.”She knew who Banhammer was now. Scythe had heard stories of children born from the Swords. One of them being born to the law.Banhammer was the law.Scythe was the furthest thing from the law.Banhammer looked over at Scythe. She was just watching the sky. No attempt was even made to look at him. The demigod went back to watching the stars. “Those are dead people up there y’know.” He whispered.“Really?” Scythe raised a brow.“Yea. Momma says they watch over their loved ones.” He pointed at a brighter star. “The brighter stars are demons who died recently.”Scythe nodded. “What about the demons who have no loved ones? Where do they go?”“My uncle deals with them.” Banhammer shivered a little. “I hear he doesn’t treat them too kindly.”Scythe grinned. “Good.”“Good?” Banhammer stared dumbfounded.“Yea. Good.” Scythe pointed at the stars. “They all have people that love them. You have to be a real shitty person to not have anyone love you.”“I guess.” Banhammer looked back at the sky. “I hope I become a star.”“I’m sure you will.” Scythe threw her legs up on the railing again.—-------------------------------------------The temple’s lamps were off. Scythe had a handheld one though, so navigating the tunnels wasn’t so bad. When she reached her room, Scythe slowly opened the door.It was dark, and just how she left it. Though, a letter was on her bed.Setting the lamp down on her nightstand, she picked up the letter.‘Escort needed- for Subspace. From, Blackrock, to Blackrock camp #6’Written in bold handwriting. Broker must’ve dropped it off while she was gone. She would leave for the snowy faction tomorrow.After washing up, and changing into her sleepwear. Scythe stared at herself in the mirror. Apart of her wished to become a star. But, because of where things were heading, she doubted it.—--------------------------------Subspace walked beside her. He was holding a box, which contained the prototype for Hyperlaser’s new helmet.“It will allow him to see.” Subspace said. “Medkit is going to put the finishing touches on it.”Scythe nodded. “You’re doing good things.”Subspace smiled. They continued to walk through the desert in silence. Scythe’s rifle was secured on her back, just in case. She doubted anyone would be ambushing them though. She had heard of commander Hot Potato’s death. Hyperlaser had shot his chest into the no-zone, literally.Subspace would occasionally try to start a conversation, but Scythe quickly shot any attempts down. She wasn’t in the mood to chat. Sand kicked up around the two. It had been dry the past few days.The Blackrock camp started to peek over the horizon. Tent tops rose steadily with every step. Scythe took a look at Subspace. His eyes were filled with wonder, and a small smile formed at his lips. He was holding the box so proudly too. This was his invention. His purpose, to bring good to other demons. Subspace was smart, very smart.They arrived at the camp’s entrance. The guards nodded and made their greetings. Scythe led Subspace through the crowds of soldiers to the medical tent.Medkit was sitting in the sand outside of the flap. He looked up when he saw the two approach.“Good, you made it.” He stood up and brushed off some sand, walking over to Subspace. “And you brought it.”“Of course I did!” Subspace held out the box. “I still need you to go over it and add your touches.”“I know.” Medkit grabbed the box and disappeared into the tent. Subspace went to follow but Scythe grabbed his shoulder.“It’s bad.” She said, Subspace looked confused for a second, but understood. He brushed off her hand.“It can’t be that bad.” Subspace strolled right on it, confidence dripping alongside every step.Scythe stayed outside. She didn’t want to experience pity for Katana again. Never again.Shortly after Subspace went in, a blood curdling scream escaped the confines of the tent. The pink horned demon quickly rushed out, barreling towards Scythe.Scythe grabbed onto Subspace as his breathing even out. Tears were welled up in his eyes.“I told you.” Was all Scythe said before the smaller demon burst out crying. It was an ugly cry. A cry you only want your closest friends, or no one at all, to hear.Scythe just let him scream and cry to whatever extent he needed. She knew he and Medkit were sheltered.Blackrock’s pride and joy would be given no harm. For them to die early, or be exposed to the harsh world, would pose a risk to the integrity and innocence of their youth. And the brain.Scythe never considered herself lucky. To be thrust into the cruel desert with nothing but a gun and bombs. She had always envied Medkit and Subspace. Sheltered children that only cared about two things. Making their home proud, and lunch time.Subspace continued to cry for a good five minutes before Medkit came back out. The medic came over and enveloped Subspace in a hug. The pink-horned demon quickly latched onto the medic. Crying into his shoulder.Medkit looked up to Scythe. The right side of his face obscured by Subspace’s fur and horns. A look of pity met Scythe’s face.“I warned him.” She mouthed.“I know.” Medkit mouthed back. He patted the other’s back a few times. Subspace just started to cry even harder.One of the adult demons stepped out of the tent, and beckoned for Scythe.Scythe nodded and walked right on in, leaving the jumbled mess of Subspace behind outside.The tent was lit by one oil lamp. Hyperlaser was laying down on the same cot, but this time a new helmet was on. The visor was flipped down.“He wants to talk to you.” The Blackrocker said. “He’s been fading in and out of consensus, so be patient.”Scythe nodded and watched the adult leave. She slowly walked over to where the mangled body was.“Hyperlaser? It’s me, Scythe.” She said, a little louder than intended.The demon shifted, grunting pain.“Scythe…” His voice sounded fake. She looked down and saw the vents near where his mouth would be. Subspace must’ve made a system to make his voice more clear for others.She nodded, acting like he could see her.“Is… Katana here?”Scythe felt her heart drop. Her hand started to shake. She could feel her legs start to go weak.“...No.” She coughed. “He’s not here.”“Shame.” Hyperlaser said before coughing. The fit lasted a few seconds before he continued to talk. “If you see him… Please… Tell him I’m alive.” His head fell onto the pillow. Hyperlaser’s chest started to rise in a steady rhythm.Scythe just watched him. Her body started to feel fine again. There would be no pity for the traitor.Katana would have to live with the fact that Hyperlaser was dead.

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Scythe was sitting with Subspace. He was done crying, now just sniffling every few seconds. His eyes were still wet though.“You okay?” Scythe asked. She looked down at the small demon.“I’m fine.” He wiped his eyes. “I was just… shocked.”“Whatever you say.” She smiled a little. “Is he stable though?”Subspace nodded. “The helmet is helping air go to his lungs now. And the visor is helping him see.”Scythe perked up. “You can make gadgets that fix your eyes?”“Medkit can, I haven’t figured it out yet. It has to do with his crystal.” Subspace looked down. “He can do really anything if the damage isn’t too severe. Hyperlaser got lucky I guess.” He looked at Scythe’s missing eye. “Dunno if he could fix that, the whole eye is gone. And your wound has healed up.”Scythe sighed and looked back out at the camp. She clawed a little at the socket. It was an ugly reminder of who she swore loyalty to. Subspace noticed and frowned. But he said nothing. They just sat there, hunched over waiting for Medkit to return. Subspace started tapping his shoes together.“What do you think of Medkit?” He asked.“Kid is smart, but I can smell his ego from a mile away.” Scythe hissed.“Ego?” Subspace asked.“It may not be here yet, but it’s forming.” Scythe looked to the tent. “You guys get constant praise, special treatment, why wouldn’t an ego form?”“I guess.” Subspace’s eyes lit up when Medkit emerged from the medic tent. He was in the middle of taking his gloves off.Subspace got up and ran over to his friend. Scythe got up as well, but stayed put. She was their escort back to Blackrock, and she really wasn’t looking forward to the journey. Scythe had a gut feeling Banhammer would be lurking around. His pronounced armor and large purple horns were hard to miss in the desert.Her gut ached from the locked away thoughts she had of him. He wasn’t particularly an enemy in her eyes, just an annoyance.Subspace and Medkit jogged over. Scythe nodded to them and they took off, exiting the camp.—--------------------------The sun was harsh today, beating down on the Blackrockers unrelentlessly. Medkit was hunched over, Subspace supporting most of his weight. Scythe turned her head, looking at the disheveled kids.“We can take a break over there you know?” She pointed to an overhang a few hundred feet away. Subspace nodded, Medkit gave a weak nod.They walked over to the cliffside. Medkit tumbled down, Subspace followed. The shade felt nice, but wouldn’t fix them forever. They would need to travel at night.Scythe sat down, looking over the sandy expanse. A tall figure was moving through the sands in the distance. Her heart dropped. She could tell, just by the way they walked, it was Banhammer. She sent a silent prayer to Seer that he wouldn’t see her and the Blackrockers near the cliff.Apparently, Seer was still mad at her for praying to Windforce, as Banhammer’s figure slowly started to get larger. Scythe groaned, and looked over at Medkit and Subspace.“Heads up,” She said. “Ban’s storming over.”Banhammer appeared in front of them. His heavy steps puffing up a cloud of sand. A wild smile was on his face, fangs poking out from his lips.“Scythe! You out on an escort?” He nodded towards the younger demons, who were passed out.“Yep…” She popped the “p”. Her eyes carefully analyzed Banhammer’s moves. He sat himself down next to her. It made Scythe want to rip her skin off, the way he casually saw them as friends. They were on opposing sides but, to be fair, where was the law in war?The warden yawned. “Why're you sitting here?”“Waiting for the sun to go down. These runts can’t handle the heat.” Scythe pointed her thumb at the sleeping kids.“HA! They should visit the Banlands!” Banhammer laughed, he slapped a gloved hand on his knee.Scythe awkwardly laughed alongside him. She watched the way his jaw practically unhinged with every laugh. His teeth lined up perfectly, and were pearly white. She glanced at Subspace and Medkit for a few seconds to see if Banhammer’s outburst had woken them up. Thankfully, the two were still asleep on top of eachother.“Lost Temple nights are better suited for them anyways. I feel bad making them walk in the daytime on all those other runs.” Scythe nodded at the dimming sky. The sun was starting to cast its colors. The reds and oranges bled into a pink sky.Banhammer smiled at the sight of it.“It sure is pretty aint it?” He said.“Yea. One thing I like about this wretched place.” Scythe smiled. “They’re the only pretty thing here.”The demigod scoffed. “I wouldn’t say that. I think the desert is full of pretty things.”Scythe snickerd. “Well then you can’t see a damn thing underneath that blindfold, or you’re just an optimist.” She saw how Banhammer’s face fell a little. He was so open with his facial features. It made her gut hurt even more.Banhammer was an open book. A book sent from the stars for her to study. His mannerisms, his features, his way of moving were all so fascinating. She wanted to spend more time watching, and at the same time she wanted to smite his stupid face off of Inphintiy. The way he kept coming back to her, wanting to see her.It was awful. Why would Banhammer, son of the law, be interested in being friendly with the daughter of a cult.Scythe scoffed. She looked at the kids. They were still sleeping. Subspace was lazily toppled over Medkit. Their breaths matched, and they both found a steady rhythm.Banhammer’s tail thumped steadily, like a metronome. Scythe had to restrain herself from joining in.“You have godly blood right?” She asked.Banhammer nodded. “Yea, why?”“Then why hang around me?” Scythe flashed a grin. “Last time I checked, the only godly thing about me is my blood right to the True Eye’s throne.”The purple demon sighed. “I dunno. I just think well, you’re interesting. And besides, my uncle likes seeing me get all buddy buddy with the mortals. Especially the ones who aren’t “pure hearted” by the other’s standards.” He shrugged. “You aren’t scared of me, that’s also a plus.”“Why on Inphinity would I be scared of you?” Scythe looked the demigod up and down. “You’re big, but you have rocks for brains.”“HEY!” Banhammer yelled. He lightly punched her with his fist.“SHH!” Scythe smacked him back with her tail. “They’re sleeping.”“Sorry!” Banhammer held up his hands apologetically.Scythe rolled her eye, but leaned back into the rockface. The stars were starting to peek through. Banhammer looked excited to see them. She yawned. No one would attack them this close to the Blackrock camp, even if they were a few miles out.“I’m gonna hit the hay.” She took off her hat, putting it over her face. “Feel free to leave.”Scythe heard Banhammer shuffle around next to her. “I think I’ll stay.” He said. “Beats going home and having dinner with my uncle Darkheart.”She would take that. Scythe never knew much about Banhammer’s family, but having dinner with the guy that hangs out with the dead wouldn’t seem like much fun.—----------------------------------------------Scythe woke up to Subspace poking her leg. The younger demon looked bored, as he aimlessly poked into her flesh. Scythe kicked up, scaring Subspace.“What’s up kid?” She said, taking off her hat.“Medkit hasn’t woken up yet.” Subspace turned to glance at the other demon. “He sleeps like an elder.”Scythe pushed herself up, so now she was standing. “Well,” She looked up into the moonlit sky. “Wake him up. We should get going if we wanna make it to the Lost Temple by sunrise.” Subspace nodded and crawled over to Medkit, prodding him a little.“Meddy, wake up, it’s time to go.” Subspace whispered.Scythe walked over to Banhammer, and kicked him. “Wake up, meat-head. We gotta get cutin.” The demigod groaned, but lazily stood himself up.Medkit slowly walked with Subspace out a few feet away from Banhammer and Scythe, complaining about his back.“We heading to Blackrock?” Banhammer asked, voice still groggy.“Yea, and we better make it snappy.” She looked the demi god up and down. Silently, Scythe thought to herself. ‘I don’t wanna have to spend another moment longer with you.’

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Hoping and praying gets you nowhere. That was the one of the first lessons Katana learned. Instead of wishing for something, he would have to work for it. Gripping his blade, Katana stared at the dummy that stood before him. Before he could strike, Vinestaff grabbed his shoulder.“Katana.” Her voice was soft. “I have some… news.”Katana lowered his blade. He turned to look at his friend. “Yes?”“Hyperlaser didn’t make it.” She gripped his shoulder tighter. “There have been no recent sightings of him out in battle, and some of our demons have heard the Blackrockers talking about him in past tense terms.” Vinestaff looked down. “I’m sorry.”The metallic noise of Katana’s sword hitting the ground broke the silence. His hands shook, and soon his entire body followed. “You’re lying.” He whispered.Vinestaff enveloped the swordsman into a hug. “I wish.” Katana burst out crying. An ugly scream signifying the start of his outburst. Vinestaff could feel the hot tears seep into her clothes, going through the fabric and touching her shoulder.Some stray soldiers wandered by, they looked at Katana and Vinestaff, but paid no mind to them. It was normal to have these sorts of emotions during war.Katana pulled himself away from Vinestaff. His face was wet, and his eye was red.“Vinestaff…” He croaked. “You can grow plants, yes?”“Why?” She whispered.“I need you to grow me a small tree. I just need the wood.” Katana kept his hands on her shoulders. “Can you do that for me?”Vinestaff nodded. “How much wood?”“Just enough to cover this.” Katana took a hand off and gestured to his face. “I don’t want to look at myself anymore.”—--------------------------------The carving knife glided smoothly across the wood. It was a sunny afternoon. There had been no reports of Blackrock advancements into Playground territory for a few days now. Katana whittled away at the block of wood Vinestaff had given him. The rest of the tree had gone to be used as firewood. He was seated comfortably against the grave tent. The smell of dead bodies was hidden away by herbs and oils. Katana sighed. The rounded shape of the mask looked like a bird. If anything, Katana felt like the furthest thing from a bird. Birds were gorgeous creatures, fully of beauty and grace. An ugly scar, and horns akin to his psycho sister and brother were not the qualities that a bird would deem fit. That was a rude thought. Katana scowled. His brother and sister were not physcos, just… desensitized. They were content with the life given to them. Maybe Katana was just selfish? He hadn’t been grateful for the life bestowed to him. Overseer must've punished him by killing Hyperlaser. Enraged by his defiance and betrayal. Not paying attention, Katana nicked his finger. Some blood pooled, but not much at all. He took the injured thumb and stuck it in his mouth for a few seconds. When he took it out, there was no more blood. He went back to carving. The mask continued to remind Katana of a bird. He sighed. If that’s what the world was telling him, then Katana would pretend to be a graceful, and majestic bird. Hell, half of the demons fighting with him thought he was this being sent from the Swords to aid them in battle. Katana didn’t want to be looked up to. But maybe, that was just because he knew that he would’ve been looked up to for the wrong reasons.An hour had passed. The sun was starting to set, and the mask was done. Two small eye holes were placed symmetrically in the center. Katana set the mask on his face. The edges sat nicely on his tusks. Finally, the damn things had a use. He heard the crunching of leaves, turning around, he saw Vinestaff through the eye slits.The healer jumped and yelped. “Katana!” She yelled. Katana took off the mask and laughed.“Oh my Swords you should’ve seen your face!”Vinestaff walked over and examined the mask. “This is really good…” She grinned. “How do you want it painted?”“Painted?” Katana tilted his head.“Yeah, I think just keeping it plane is boring and silly. But if it makes you happy then-”Katana cut her off. “No, I’ll paint it. What color would work best?” He took the mask from her hands.“I think red would be a nice color for you.” Vinestaff suggested. “You could paint some of the mask red, and the other parts another color.” She shrugged. “Maybe paint it teal, or green to match your-”“NO!” Katana yelled. He quickly apologized though. “Sorry, that was. Uhm, uncalled for.” He mumbled.“Hey, green isn’t everyone’s color. I get it.” Vinestaff laughed. “My brother likes green though, funnily enough.”“How is he?” Katana changed the subject.“He’s well. He has Slingshot to keep him company while I’m away. Thank Swords the Blackrock troops haven’t advanced far into Theive’s Den territory. Do you know how your siblings are doing?” Vinestaff didn’t know too much about Katana. Just that he had siblings, and decided to join the war in an effort to help. She did know that his sister was an “interesting and dangerous” individual. Vinestaff had paid no mind to the comment at the time being.“They are doing well.” Katana didn’t actually know how they were. But he assumed they were in tip top shape. “They’re pretty hearty.” He let out a dry laugh.Vinestaff hummed. The sky was starting to darken, along with the surrounding elements. She took a seat next to Katana. “I’m happy you joined. You make it a lot easier here. I don’t think Playground would’ve had a chance. They’re strong, but their gears are no match for Blackrock’s. I hear now too, that they’ve been having their gear modified. Is that even legal?”Katana’s breath hitched. “I’m not sure.” His hands trembled, the mask shaking. Gears being modified? Broker must still be alive, the bastard. “Let’s go to bed.” Katana mumbled.“Agreed.” Vinestaff smiled. She was lucky. Unaware of the messed up and bloody cult Katana had left behind.—----------------------------The morning sun was hot. Its rays pierced through the clouds. Today was Hot Potato’s funeral. His body had been prepared about a week ago, but there had been too many bodies to bury beforehand. Thankfully, Katana didn’t have to speak. He grabbed the nieces clothes he had, and made sure his horns were well polished. The teal color was starting to become dull. Katana opened his tent flap and followed the crowd of demons to the burial grounds. It was in Playground territory. Quiet chatter was shared among everyone. Some demons would greet Katana with a small nod. He nodded back. Hot Potato had been a good commander. A short demon, with smaller gray horns, went up on the podium.“Hello.” They said. The crowd went quiet. “I’m Pool Noodle, and one of Hot Potato’s dear friends.” A few moments passed before they continued. “He was a brave demon. He put others before himself no matter the situation. His death was no different.”Katana wanted to scoff. Hot Potato was fine, but the bitch had thrown one of his bombs straight at Hyper’s face. He saw some demons raise their gears. A sign of agreement.Pool Noodle smiled. They looked down for a split second, most likely at a script. “I want to wish my friend a well rested eternity with his… lover.”Hushed whispers started to spread like wildfire. Lover? Hot Potato actually was able to get a partner? Yeah the guy had looks but could not think of a pick up line to save his life. Katana had heard the late night campfire conversations. Sure, he had been away in his tent reading, but Playgrounders got loud.Pool Noodle awkwardly shifted their weight. “Yes,” They looked at the body. “Hot Potato and my brother were set to be wed after the war. I hope they can have the big and grand wedding they dreamed of.” The small demon sniffed. Katana could see the shine of tears starting to form. “Take care of eachother.” The gray-horned demon stepped down from the podium. He walked over to the casket and laid down a bouquet of flowers. They were white. “These are from my brother, Water Gun.” Pool Noodle said. “I hope you get to see his dress.”Katana could feel the shift in emotion around him. He saw how demons hung their heads in solitude. Their hats lowered. Katan followed suit, tilting his head downward. The sound of wood creaking caused the attendees to lift their heads. The casket was closed, and was being lowered. Another demon got up on the podium. He had magenta colored horns. His horns were akin to tentacles.“Ahem.” He looked at the grave. “I was appointed a few days before Hot Potato’s death as his successor. I, Space Sandwich, will give my life to all you soldiers. Even if it means we only get slightly closer to victory.” The tall demon summoned a questionable looking sandwich. There were eyes, and tentacles moving around. Katana felt sick. “These babies can throw off even the smartest Blackrock soldiers. One bite, and they’ll be taking a one way trip to the infirmary. For Hot Potato!” The new commander raised his fist into the air. The crowd, Katana included, followed suit.“FOR HOT POTATO!” They all chanted. Cheers erupted.When the commotion died down, Katana found Pool Noodle. They were gathering some of the late commander’s belongings. The younger demon looked up at Katana when he approached.“May I help you?” They asked, pausing what they had been doing.“I think you should have this.” Katana held out a gold ring. It had originally been a gift to him from Scythe. When he had asked about its origins, Scythe had said some demon had it in a satchel. It had come from her first harvest, and her first pair of horns. “I found this in a small town out west. The demon matched Water Gun’s missing poster and I thought nothing of it at the time.” It was a big fat lie. But Katana could never reveal the true method of retrieving the gold band. Pool Noodle smiled and took the ring.“You’re a good demon, Katana. I hope when this is all over you can rest well.” Pool Noodle said.Oh if only.

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The gate opened, and Zuka had to turn around to see who had come in. It looked to be Scythe, carrying a satchel that was overflowed with letters. A large demon trailed behind her. Zuka tilted his head. ‘Isn’t that the sky kid?’ He thought. He knew all the deities were neutral, as much as they pretended to have favorites. All of them could care less about the mortal beings. So possibly, Banhammer was just keeping her company. The footsteps got louder, so Zuka was forced to walk a few extra steps to meet Scythe.“Any for me?” He asked. Nodded down to the overflowing bag.Scythe nodded. She opened it and started to sift through the letters. “Broker insisted on writing more than one.”Zuka sighed. “I hope none of them are about crazy dreams again.”The younger demon looked up and raised a brow. “Dreams?”“Mhm. Your brother has been having crazy ass nightmares.” Zuka grabbed the letters once Scythe held them out. “Demons keep getting hurt in grotesque ways.”“Hmph.” Scythe turned to glance at Banhammer before continuing. “Well, it’s not uncommon in the Lost Temple to lose a limb or two.” She shifted her shoulder stump. “You gotta play by the rules.”Zuka nodded. He knew that. “Give this to Broker please.” He dug in his pocket for a crumpled letter and handed it to Scythe. “It will be the last one for a while.”“I see.” Scythe put it back in her satchel. “C’mon Banny.” She tapped the demigod. “We got more letters to deliver.” Banhammer smiled and followed her away through the camp.Zuka hummed to himself. What an odd thing to see. Banhammer, son of the law, and Scythe, daughter of an obsessive cult. He shrugged it off though. Returning to the letters, and where he had been previously sitting, Zuka took the oldest letter and opened it. Skimming through, he was able to get the general gist. The ranged soldier repeated this process with the other letters.He took the opened papers and trekked over to his tent. Inside, there was a bag dedicated to Broker’s letters. Zuka shoved the papers into the leather bag. He took his time adjusting and cleaning up some of the things around the space. He was leaving today. Playground had a town that just touched their border, and that’s where they would be heading. Zuka grabbed his gear and ammo bags. He dragged them out of the tent and into the open area, his fellow soldiers following suit. A pile of gears was soon formed in the middle. Out of the corner of his eye Zuka saw Banhammer and Scythe trotting up to him.“What’s up?” Zuka smiled.“Forgot to give you this.” Scythe said, she dug in the bag and pulled out a small box. “He said it’s important.” She turned to Banhammer and stood on her tippy toes. Zuka subconsciously tuned out their hushed voices. Instead, he focused on opening the small box. Inside was a dog tag. On it were printed the words. ‘PROPERTY OF B. ZUKA. IF DAMAGED PLEASE GIVE TO BROKER AT XXX-XX-XXX LOST TEMPLE. FREE OF CHARGE.’ There was also a little note. It was handwritten. “Zuka, please tag your weapon so if, Seer forbid, anything happens to it there will be no fee for you.” Zuka smiled. He looked up at Scythe and Banhammer. Scythe was staring him down. Banhammer was awkwardly hunched over. “Don’t do anything stupid out there. Kay?” Scythe hissed. “I’d hate to give my brother a bag of bones.”“Of course.” Zuka patted Scythe on the back. “Nothing is gonna happen to me!”“That’s what they all say.” The younger demon scoffed. “C’mon Banny, let’s head out.”“Already?” The brute asked.“Yeah.” Scythe flicked her tail and started to walk away. Banhammer hesitated, but soon followed after. Zuka watched them go. Scythe had seemed tired. Her short responses and stern expression made the soldier question what had happened on the trip over. Possibly something with Banhammer? No, he wouldn’t have come into the camp with her. Possibly they found Katana? No that wasn’t it either. Zuka shrugged it off. There was no point in trying to guess. He knelt down and attached the tag to a small loop at the top of the barrel. It had been a built-in scope, but Zuka never used it much anyway. He stood back up and went to get some more things from his tent. They would be leaving the camp set up, so that it could pose as a distraction for opposing troops if need be. Just taking the necessities with them.He grabbed the letter bag, and found a picture that Katana had taken with an old camera back when the two attended meetings. Broker had his arm slung around Zuka casually. They both had wide smiles to accompany the relaxed postures. Zuka unbuttoned his uniform slightly. Inside the shirt was a small pocket, ment for photos. He had seen fellow soldiers use it to hold pictures of their partners or pets, or even their families. Zuka was about to nudge the photo in place when a thought occurred to him. What were they? Zuka had wanted it to be more than friends for a long time. He could never figure out what Broker wanted though, the demon showed none of his thoughts on a future. Pushing the thought of rejection away, Zuka shoved the photo into the pocket and smiled. He grabbed the stray dog tag with his ID info on it and slung it over his head. Tucking it behind the collar of his shirt, he used his other hand to grab his goggles.This was gonna be a long ass trek.—---------------------Blackrock soldiers lined the border. They could all see the town lights in the distance. Zuka felt his gut twist when given the command to advance.“Be careful.” A shorter soldier whispered. “It gets thick fast.” They nodded up to the coming trees. Their vines stretching down in a feeble attempt to shelter and defend against their onslaught.“Noted.” Zuka said, his voice gruff. He pushed past the forage, checking back every now and then to make sure his assigned group was still near.“I hear there’s an orphanage in the town.” Another soldier said. Zuka decided now was the time to tune out the small talk. He didn’t want to think about the possibilities.After some walking, they arrived to the town. There were some shabby gates, and from what Zuka could tell, it was most likely deserted. A soldier came up next to Zuka and in a hushed voice said. “We’re ready when you are, give us the signal and we’ll go.”He turned to face the troops. “Remember, we’re here to cause havoc.” Zuka felt his throat go dry, but he crammed any uneasy thoughts into a big deep dark hole. “Let’s blow shit up.” He quickly loaded his gun and aimed it. Flicking the safety off, Zuka aimed it at the gates. “FOR HYPERLASER!” The soldiers all shouted. Zuka pulled the trigger.The explosion that followed caused the rickety metal to come crashing down. Zuka could hear the surrounding guns go off. 6 troops had been positioned all around the town to ensure entrance points at every angle. Zuka’s troop was full of bombers. Without having to think, Zuka started to run into town. His boots crunched any spare twigs. The other Blackrockers were let loose now. No more would they have to follow the rigid commands of the open battlefield. The only rule here was to minimize death. This was a warning attack, to try and pressure Playground into surrendering. Zuka hopped over crumbled stone and wood. He heard more guns and bombs go off. It was a miracle by the Swords he wasn’t deaf yet. Zuka could now hear and see the residents. Demons quickly fleeing past the advancing troops. Zuka took this opportunity to reload his gun, quickly aiming and firing at the base of a deserted house. He heard the glass windows shatter.Something caught his eye. It was a sign, half of it covered in soot and dirt. Zuka wiped it away with his gloved hand. “Cymbal’s Orphanage” was carved into the sign. He looked up at the crusty building. The sound of a familiar charge caught in his ears and Zuka was forced to quickly run out of the way. The explosion sounded behind him. Galactic was trying to drive out any residents. Zuka could tell, by the burnt patch of grass near the base. He hurried away when the wooden door flew open. Zuka had more buildings to bomb anyways.
He heard the gun charge again.
A frightened cry followed.
Zuka whipped himself back around and snatched the targeted child by their arm. The kid had on a dark hoodie. Galactic’s visor had a tint on it, so she wouldn’t be blinded by her gun. Zuka guessed she hadn’t seen him. Zuka kept running, the child running close behind. His hand still tightly gripped the arm. The sound of Galactic’s gun shooting followed shortly after, taking a quick glance behind, the laser bullet had landed right where the kid had been.“WHAT THE FUCK!?” The kid started to scream.“Shut up! Swords…” Zuka snapped back. He saw a small nook near the edge of the town and dove to that direction. Another bomb was set off nearby. The attack was starting to get more ruthless. Playground soldiers would be showing up soon.His communicator suddenly started to go off. “Playgrounders spotted near the east side! Get out while you can, I hear they're looking to avenge that old commander of theirs!” It was cut off. Zuka tightened his grip and kept running. There would be one last hurrah. Black Hole was seated somewhere, they would be sending the final blow. Zuka didn’t know where.“Stay close to me now-” Zuka ordered. His words were cut off by another bomb being set. The nook was close enough to dive into now. He pulled the kid forward, their blue horns grazing Zuka’s shirt. Zuka picked him up into his arms. There was some protest, but they were quickly silenced by the sounds of battle starting to increase. “You’re fine.” Zuka mumbled. He dove into the small area, it was a narrow alleyway that had been connected to the spaces between buildings. It was hard to fit both him and the child, but they managed. Zuka felt his breath slow, his heart was still racing.“Thank you…” A raspy voice whispered. Zuka held the kid closer. His glasses were fogged up.“Yeah… what happened?” Zuka tilted his head down to wipe his visor glasses on his shoulder.“Some dickhead pushed me and I fell.” The child mumbled.Zuka hummed, he went to put the kid down, but felt something grab the collar of his shirt. He yelled out, but the sound was cut off quickly when a large hand grabbed his neck, another hand went to grab his horns. Zuka didn’t mean to drop the kid, but he did. A loud “OW!” Followed. He saw the light blue horns peek up over the large hand, and then a pair of eyes staring directly into Zuka’s. Relasition on what was about to happen, the kid was smart. ‘I do one good deed.’ Zuka thought to himself, before he felt his body get harshly manhandled through the alley entrance. He was thrown to a nearby wall The impact knocked more air out of his lungs, alongside that he heard a loud cracking noise. Looking up, a large demon with gold gloved towered over him. The demon grinned. Another one, with dark gray-blue horns strode up.“Ooooo.” They grinned along with the gloved one. “We caught the famous B.Zuka taking one of our kids hostage, eh?” They punctuated Zuka’s name, almost spitting it out. “What do ya say we do Steampunk?” They turned to the larger demon.“Hmph.” Was all they said. Zuka was able to take in Steampunk's features. A bulky gold mask, accompanied by gold horns adorned their head and face. Leather was the main material used to make their clothes. Some gold accents were added. “I dunno. You can pick.”“Thought you’d say that.” The smaller demon walked closer to Zuka. “Hold him down.”Steampunk obeyed, and put a firm hand on Zuka’s back, rendering him immobile. He heard the signature sound of a gear being summoned, and looked up. A serrated blade on both ends with a shark handle was staring back at him. Steampunk’s hollow voice was heard.“His gun, what do we do with it?” They nodded in the direction of Zuka’s discarded weapon. It had been torn off his back during the altercation.“Smash it.” The smaller demon commanded. “Don’t make it completely into bits, but make it useless.” He turned back to Zuka, the sword gleaming in the sunlight. “We can do that after though.”Zuka felt any words in his mouth go dry. He frantically searched for anything he could use to try and gain an upper hand. His gaze caught the child’s. Standing in the alley entrance, his eyes still wide. Zuka mouthed “GO.” He saw the kid nod, and run off towards the gates. Zuka looked back to his attackers. They were whispering about something.“Make it quick, Shark.” Steampunk grumbled.‘Oh Swords…’ Zuka thought. ‘This is how I die isn’t it.’ He saw out of the corner of his eye the glint of the sword.+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ARM CHOP PART!!! (+vomit)
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++The serrated blade touched Zuka’s skin. The cool metal stayed still for a few seconds. Without warning, Shark moved the blade back and forth. The blade pierced Zuka’s skin. The bomber did a sharp inhale. The pain was numbed by pure adrenaline. Instincts started to kick in, Zuka started to flail in a weak attempt that maybe they would show him mercy.Instead, the blade cut deeper, and messier, causing more pain.“Thought I told you to keep him still!” Shark lashed out at Steampunk. “Haven’t even gotten to the bone…” He muttered the last part.Zuka’s breathing quickened with each slice. Back and forth, he could hear his muscles rip and tear with each second passing. He let out a loud cry. Steampunk grumbled, and put a large hand over his mouth.“Hurry it up.” They mumbled. Shark just laughed. Zuka panicked more. The blade remained at a consistent and slow pace. It was agony. Suddenly, the blade stopped. Its teeth embedded in Zuka’s skin. He didn’t even want to look in it’s direction.“Hit the bone.” Shark said. “You got Bombo’s knife with ya’?”“Of course.” Steampunk took his hand off Zuka’s and reached in a back pocket for the knife.“Perfect.” Shark pulled his sword out of Zuka’s arm. The pain that followed made Zuka nearly throw up. He was able to keep the bile down though. He felt the blood trail down his arm. Shark grabbed the knife and turned back to Zuka, adjusting his kneeling position. “Let’s get back to cracking.”Shark put the knife into Zuka’s arm, and started to do the same back and forth motion to Zuka’s bone. A painful sound of metal on bone pierced Zuka’s ears. He let out another strangled cry. The sound was awful. Steampunk’s hand pushed down further on his back. The pressure, combined with the awful sawing sound made Zuka woozy. He let his head fall onto the ground, and allowed for his eyes to close. Steampunk took his free hand and took hold of Zuka’s top horn again. He snapped the tip of it off with ease. The feeling jolted new life and adrenaline through Zuka’s body, his heart practically working in overdrive. The piece of keratin fell next to his head. Zuka gasped, his breath shallow. He could now feel the blood seeping into his clothes.The sawing noise stopped, and he saw the shiny knife rise up through his flesh. “Sword please.” Shark held out a bloody hand. Steampunk put his sword in it. The shorter demon went back to sawing through Zuka’s flesh.Zuka flailed around some more, but was stopped by Steampunk's hand being pushed down more again. His hair was starting to cling to his forehead with how much he was sweating. His clothes felt tight, and all of his senses were heightened. Zuka could feel a headache start to form, from all the tears he was holding back, and from his horn.The sound of clothes rustling caused Zuka to slowly look up. Shark was standing now. His hands and knees were bloody.“I think that’ll show em.” He said, taking a deep breath in. “Let’s go Steampunk.”The larger demon released his hand from Zuka’s back. The release of pressure, and aching pain caused Zuka to vomit. He was slightly propped up, but his long hair strands swayed in the way of his face. He breathed deeply, and rapidly. He heard Shark and Steampunk walk away, casually talking like none of this had happened.Zuka flipped himself over onto his back. He looked to his left, and there sat his twitching arm. The fingers desperately trying to reach out for something to hold. His body was starting to shut down now. Blood was spilling everywhere now. Zuka’s breathing slowed, along with the rythmic thumping of his heart.+++++++++++++++++++++++
END OF ARM CHOP
+++++++++++++++++++
So there Zuka lay. His glasses were cracked, and he felt like shit. Dirt caked his clothes. He summoned the last of his energy to take his remaining arm and reach into his shirt. He did some weak fumbling before pulling out the picture.Broker’s wide smile was the last thing he saw before his arm fell down and his eyes closed.—----------------------------------------------The Temple was quiet. It was dark out, and the moon was shining. Broker sat nicely outside near a post. There was a shipment of weapons that needed to be fixed from a recent attack. He hummed the tune of an old lullaby his mom would sing sometimes, if she was in a good mood. He saw the delivery wagons approach. The shine of their lanterns indicating how close they were. The cultist jumped down from the tall chair and ran up to the gate.When the wagons drew near, Broker shook hands with the driver. The delivery guy handed Broker the large box of weapons on a smaller wagon, built for carrying and transporting crates. Broker smiled and hauled the thing back to his office. It was heavier than normal, hell, it was heavier than the crate Hyperlaser’s gun came in.When he arrived at the door, Scythe was standing in the hall. Broker greeted her.“Can’t sleep?” He asked. Scythe nodded.“ Been thinking too much.” Was all she said before walking past Broker and towards the exit. He shrugged it off and opened the door. He cut the twine that held all the boxes in one place and started to set them down on the floor individually. He got to the last one, the biggest box. On it was stamped “PRIORITY!” In big bold red letters.Broker was naturally curious what made this one more important than the others. He grabbed his crowbar and cracked the wooden thing open.He had to shift through the packing fluff before he felt the familiar touch of metal.

Inside the box was a blue bazooka. Adorned by a dog tag on its scope covered in blood.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Darkness. His senses were gone. All but sight. There was nothing to feel, nothing to smell, and nothing to-

“Zuka!”

Nevermind. There was something to hear. Still, there was only darkness. Who had called his name? Was this death? Zuka had figured he had bled out on the ground right there.

“Aren’t you gonna answer us?”

He didn’t recognize that voice.

“Us?” He blurted out.

“Yeah,

us

.” A toothy smile appeared into the darkness. It glowed and the sharp canines clacked against the other teeth. “You’ve impressed us! Surviving a blow like that hehe!”

Zuka couldn’t see himself, he couldn’t really even move. “I-” He breathed heavily. “I survived?”

“Hell yeah you did!” Through the darkness, a figure emerged. “You can thank us for that!”

“Excuse…me?”

“Yeah! We saw your sad crumpled little body bleeding out on the grass and decided to help out!” The glowing smile grew wider. “We'll need something in return though, this isn’t no charity.”

Zuka hummed. “What?”

“Just a bit more of your horn will do.” It inched closer, and broke off a bit more of Zuka’s horn. He winced.

The bomber swallowed hard. The pain and memory was still fresh in his mind. A clawed hand rested on Zuka’s shoulder. It was adorned in fishing net scraps and silver mismatched rings. “A shame you won't be able to join us at the party.”

“Party?” Zuka whispered. The figure inched closer to him.

“We like to throw parties for the residents!” The figure let out a little giggle. “I’m sure you’ve heard of us before, no? Are the mortals losing interest in our tales?”

It clicked. The fishnet, the parties, the use of “we”, “our” and “us”.

“Darkheart-” Zuka breathed.

“Ding ding ding!” The figure happily floated around. “You guessed it! And win nothing.”

“Why am I here-” Zuka was cut off by the deity laughing.

“We got our eye on you~” Darkheart let out another laugh, before disappearing into the darkness. “My, your invitation is a long way away. You won’t be joining the party anytime soon, awhh.”

Light flooded his eyes. Zuka shot up, but felt multiple hands press down. Muffled worried voices filled his ears.

One sentence rang through his head though.

“He’s up! Alert the escort!”

Escort…

Scythe!

Zuka tried to sit up again, but was pushed back down. “Easy now..” and “Just rest.” were all he heard.

“No-” Zuka rasped. “No, I need to see him again, let me up.” Zuka pushed past the hands. Scythe could take him to Broker. He would be okay.

The tent flaps lifted up, and a familiar silhouette came in. He heard a quiet gasp.

“Zuka?” Scythe asked.

“Scythe!” Zuka smiled. “Broker… I need to see him.”

Scythe sighed. She looked down and her eyebrows furrowed. “We match, heh.”

The Blackrock soldier smiled slightly. “Yeah… I guess we do.”

Scythe stood up taller. Her mouth opened to speak, but she was interrupted by a familiar demon.

Axis slightly pushed the cultist aside. “B. Zuka…” His eyes conveyed regret. “You’ll be out of commission, for…” He looked down at the missing arm. “You’ll be retired.”

Zuka fell back. Part of him was relieved, but what the hell was he supposed to do? War and fighting was the only thing he knew.

Axis turned to Scythe. “Please, when you have the time, escort him home.”

“Hyperlaser too?” Scythe asked.

“No.” Axis smiled. “Hyperlaser will be sent back into his troop two days from now. He has been cleared by our finest doctors.”

The cultist grumbled something but nodded. “I’ll be back next week.”

“Perfect.”

Scythe went to turn away, but Axis quickly stopped her. “Wait! When you escort Zuka, take me with you and make a pitstop at the Temple. I have some business I need to conduct with your father.” He patted her shoulder. And walked out of the tent. Scythe stayed, but followed after the leader.

Zuka stayed still. He was alive, and he would be going home soon.

—-----------

Medkit dragged his feet in the sand, Subspace happily walking beside him. Scythe looked back at them, a worried look plastered on her face. Blackrock had been carting them around more than usual. She had assumed it was due to Zuka, but more and more they had been venturing out of the medic tents and into other things. Once, Scythe had heard Subspace talking about how they had gone into the weapons tent. The pink horned demon was moving his hands about, mimicking an explosion. Medkit kept an unamused look on his face.

Scythe flicked her tongue out, sniffing the air. She had recently discovered that by using her tongue, she could taste the air, and be able to sense more smells. Her steps halted though when a strong smell of smoke and-

Her breath hitched.

“Subspace, Medkit, get over here!” She barked. The two kids quickly scrambled through the sand and attached themselves to Scythe’s side. “Stay close.”

Subspace looked up at her and whispered. “What’s wrong…?”

Scythe didn’t respond. She stayed still, and rattled her tail. Over one of the dunes, a large figure came running their way.

Banhammer.

He seemed panicked, and stressed. His movements were sloppy, and he practically slid through the sand over to the trio. Banhammer’s wide, armored arms enveloped them. Confused, Scythe only looked up for a second before seeing an onslaught of arrows begin to hit at them.

“What is the meaning of this?!” Scythe hissed. “Isn’t the law supposed to be neutral!?”

“I’ll explain later-” The demigod huffed. He backed up and spawned his gear. A massive hammer landed on his shoulder. “Spawn your gear.”

Scythe stared blankly, grabbed the small dagger she kept in her pocket for escorts. Banhammer gave her a sideways look, but said nothing. Subspace’s hands opened to reveal a small trip mine. Scythe turned, and batted the thing away into the sand. “You do not fight.” She said.

More shadows started to peek over the dunes. It was no doubt, Thieves' Den had breached into the desert. They stood still at the top, their features blacked out from the shadow of the sun. The tallest one raised their hand, the signal to stop.

Scythe lowered her weapon. Banhammer kept his raised.

There was a slight pause between both groups. The opposing side turned to the tallest, their stances confused and varied. The tallest backed up.

Scythe flicked her tongue out. She raised her dagger. “COWARD!” She yelled out. Banhammer turned to her, confused. “This doesn’t concern you.” Scythe hissed at the purple demon before running up the dune. She was bee lining for the middle one. The tallest. Banhammer ran after her, his heavy steps sinking into the sand. Subspace and Medkit started to waddle after him. The tall demon froze, and barked an order to the other members. They scattered off, but Banhammer could tell they had just fallen back, not a full retreat. Scythe scaled the dune, and leaped at the leader. He let out a scream, and fell backwards.

Quickly, Banhammer ran up and pried Scythe off. He didn’t want to fight right now, maybe he could talk it out with-

“SUBSPACE!” Medkit hollered a few feet behind. A loud explosion went off soon after. Scythe’s attention deviated from the red horned demon and to whatever Subspace was doing.

A shrill cry of pain went ringing through everyone’s ears. Scythe wriggled herself out of Banhammer’s grip and scooped up Subspace in her arm. The pink horned demon looked shocked, unable to take his eyes off the destruction he caused. The demon he had hit, their face and jaw melting as poison seeped into their system. Banhammer quickly moved, and used his arms to slightly push Scythe and Medkit away, as the injured soldier caused a god enough distraction for the others.

Scythe let Subspace down when they were a good distance away. Banhammer stayed close, checking over his shoulder every now and then.

“Are you alright?” Medkit asked, looking up and down at his friend.

“I’m fine.” Subspace responded.

The cultist sighed, and looked up into the sky. “Let’s get walking, we’ll have to take a longer route though.” She turned to Banhammer. “You’re welcome to join us.”

He smiled and nodded. “I’d love to!”

Medkit and Subspace grinned. Subspace started to run ahead again, while Medkit slowly jogged after him. Scythe and Banhammer took up the rear, making small conversation about the things they had seen that day.

The moon had started to rise into the sky when they were 3 quarters through the journey. Subspace flopped down into the sand laughing, Medkit followed, less enthusiastic. Scythe kicked at the two kids. She mumbled something about finding a shelter, and nodding over to a small rock formation. The Blackrockers got up and scrambled over to it.

Banhammer leaned up against the rocks. The armor he had worn today was starting to take a toll on his muscles. Scythe sat down next to him, while Medkit and Subspace laid down near. The demigod itched at his bandanna, the fabric irritating his eyes. Scythe took notice.

“I’ve always wondered why you wore that funky thing.” She grinned.

The purple horned demon awkwardly smiled back. “It’s embarrassing really-”

“It can’t be

that

bad.” Scythe reached up at it. Banhammer quickly grabbed her wrist, and gently pushed it back. Scythe’s face fell, but she made no move to grab at the fabric again.

“I’m sorry.” Banhammer whispered.

“It’s fine.” Scythe said, in an equally hushed voice. She looked at the sleeping children, and brought her knees up to her chest. “I feel bad for them.” Banhammer tilted his head. Scythe continued. “They were thrust into this whole mess against their will.”

“Well they’re helping, aren't they?” Banhammer asked.

Scythe sighed. “Yes but-” She looked up at the demigod. “I just don’t want to see them get hurt.” The image of Hyperlaser and Zuka laying on the shitty cots appeared in her mind. In their place lay Medkit and Subspace, their limbs and faces disfigured.

Banhammer’s face fell. He slowly, and very unsurely, slung an arm around her shoulders. The metal armor had cooled off through the night, so he hoped it wasn’t too uncomfortable. Scythe leaned into the touch, propping herself against his side. Her horns bumping into his armor.

“They’ll be fine.” He said, his voice barely above a whisper.

“Bad things always happen when you say that.” Scythe mumbled. She yawned, and closed her eye.

Banhammer inhaled deeply, and watched Scythe as she drifted off to sleep. When he was certain she was out, he pulled the blindfold down. His four eyes blinked, and adjusted to the new lighting. Everything was so much clearer now. He looked down at Scythe. Most of her form was obscured by a cloak and her large hat.

Banhammer prayed to his uncle, asking him to not allow any of his family members to see this. He knew at the next gathering, he would be teased and picked at forever.

A demigod and a mortal? Impossible.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The soldier dropped dead. Half his body melted away into the sands, making an awful smell. Katana scrunched his nose and looked away. He could see the shadows of his sister and Banhammer running away into the horizon. The blade master made no move to chase them though. He turned and stared at the others, all surrounding the body. Katana swallowed and pushed past some of them, and stared down. The jaw was hanging open, and his eyes had been frozen wide. Slight sizzling noises filled the deadly silence.“A child…” One of the soldiers murmured. Katana hung his head low. More murmurs started to be spoken aloud, mostly about the small demon that had caused this mess. Katana balled his hands into fists and tensed his muscles. Someone reached down to try and lift the body, but another stopped them. Whispering about how they could meet the same fate.“Go back to camp.” Katana ordered. “Report to Space Sandwich what has happened.”The other demons all looked at one another, then back at Katana. “What about you?” One of them said, there were noises of agreement.Katana looked at the body, then back at his crew. “I’ll stay to watch over the body till morning.” They seemed to like that answer, and bid their goodbyes. Katana turned to the setting sun, his back facing the group.He never liked lying, but tonight, Katana thought he could excuse it.The moon was full. The stars lit a pathway that Katana had tried to travel before. Rocks and landmarks that he had saved into his head came into view every minute. Sometimes, a small lizard would poke its head out of the shadows to see what had shifted the sand. He took a large sniff, some sand got up into his nostrils. Katana sneezed, too loudly for his liking, but after looking around, he deemed that no one was there, or had heard him. Katana continued to walk, his taloned feet sifting through the sand and causing it to cave in at some parts. He absentmindedly scratched at his horns, sighing when he saw the chipped red dye underneath his claws.He looked into the sky, smiling as a pair of desert owls flew past overhead. They called out a few times before flying higher and further away into the sky. Katana adjusted his blade, the metal clacked in its holder. In the distance, tent tops started to peek through the sand.Katana had found the Blackrock camp.
The walls stretched across the perimeter, made out of wood and steel. It was an odd combination, but there were guards positioned at almost every point. Katana shifted his weight. He looked down to his grapple, then back up at one of the guards. Down at his grapple, up at the guard, down at his grapple, up at the guard. It would reach, and the hook on it had been sharpened recently. Katana scanned the surrounding wall. He wasn’t at an entrance point, so guards were stationed further out. They looked tired too, slumped over and looking at their gear instead of the area. Katana didn’t blame them, he was always tired when sent on night watch.He unhooked the long rope from his belt, and started to swing it. It gained the needed momentum so Katana threw it up.The hook caught on the Blackrock uniform, startling the guard out of their daze. They fell over the wall, and were dragged back to Katana. They kicked and screamed like a toddler the whole time, it was a miracle no one looked, but fell silent when Katana’s blade met their neck.“Hyperlaser.” Katana said. The guard looked confused. “Is Hyperlaser dead?”The Blackrock demoned nodded slowly. They were shaking. “He’s dead.” Their voice was shaky, and Katana could see their wide eyes darting across. He grabbed the collor of the soldier and growled.“Speak the truth.”Tears started to brim at the soldier’s eyes. They gasped for air. “Hyper-” They paused to take another breath.“Spit it out!” The swordsman barked.“I told you he’s dead!” They started to sob. Their body shook with every cry. Katana slowly let them down, and looked up at the wall. Hyperlaser had died, and Katana never got to say goodbye.—------------------------------------The Thieves' Den camp was quiet, save for the few chatty night guards. Katana waltzed in, and opened the flap to his tent. Vinestaff had left again for a few days, so Katana was forced to socialize with the other soldiers. He flopped down onto the sleeping cot and took the wooden mask off. He set it on the small nightstand he had been provided. The mask knocked over a few empty dye cans, but right now Katana didn’t care. He took his clawed hands and slid them across his face. At first, it was just a rumor. Hyperlaser’s death was a shock, and an extreme loss for Blackrock. So, Katana reasoned the rumor had just brewed because the sniper was just knocked out. But it had been weeks.Weeks.Katana sat up.He started calculating the time it took to travel to Blackrock from the Temple. It had taken around the entire day to travel there, hang out, then travel back. Katana counted on his fingers, adding a few extra hours for trekking to the Playground border. His heart stopped.They could’ve easily gotten their medics around.They had lied.Hyperlaser had to be alive.Katana grabbed some spare paper and an ink pen. He started to messily scribble down his thoughts, telling how he had figured out Blackrock’s plan. It was a true mess of words. Punctuations were thrown about randomly, and Katana already knew there were at least 20 misspellings. He folded the paper and shoved it into its envelope. Rushing out the door, Katana ran to Space Sandwich’s tent. He threw the flap open. Space and Poolnoodle stood in the middle of the tent, they looked at Katana, their eyes wide.“Uhm,” Poolnoodle whispered. “Can we help you?”Katana held out the letter. “I need to send this back to Thieves' Den.”Space Sandwich took the letter carefully, and read the address on the envelope. He slowly blinked at it. “Vinestaff?” The commander gave Katana a pointed look. The bladesmen narrowed his eye back.“I just need to let her know what I’ve figured out, it’s nothing important.” But it was! It was something important! Katana wanted to shout what he had figured out, but he knew he had to keep it between himself and Vinestaff. He couldn’t risk his only home.His only chance at escape.There was a pause, Pool Noodle looked between the two taller demons before speaking up. “I should probably go. My horns need to be re-dyed anyway.” They awkwardly shuffled out of the tent. Katana tilted his head, thankfully Space Sandwich already knew what he was about to ask.“Pool Noodle dyes his horns gray to mourn for his brother.” The commander put the letter down and folded his hands. “They have green horns underneath.”Katana nodded. He looked at the letter. “You can get that to Thieves' Den, yes?”Space Sandwich nodded. “I’ll send it over as soon as I can.” Katana nodded and turned to leave. “Say, Katana.” The commander said. “You're here now so I’ll just tell you, but I have put you down to go scouting in the desert.” Space Sandwich smiled. “You are a formidable warrior. Hot Potato was right, we are lucky to have you.”Katana swallowed, and gave a weak smile. He really didn’t want to go back into the sands. But Katana wasn’t one to refuse an order, so he nodded and walked outside of the tent.—----------Wind whipped around him. Sand kicked up into his fur. Katana was not having a good time. He was scheduled to patrol until nightfall, then return to camp once his position was filled. Mumbling curses, he picked some of the larger sand chunks out of his fur. His feet curled around the edge of the broken pillar he sat upon. They had stationed him in an old temple. Judging by the broken portraits, Katana assumed this was dedicated to a Sword. His stomach churned. He knew why this temple had been destroyed.Katana paused his thoughts. Movement caught in his eye. A figure standing around 10 yards away, back turned towards him. It was an odd lump, and Katana couldn’t make out the details. He inhaled a large breath, opening his jaws to taste the air. The smell of… something… reached his senses. Katana couldn’t tell what it really was. A mass of what smelled like the medic tent all compiled onto one demon was confusing. Still, he was a threat. Katana slowly climbed down the pillar. The stone cracking and crumbling to the soft sand below. He landed with a grunt, and carefully began to traverse over. He let the sand move his feet, and started to return to his younger years. Learning how to walk quietly in the sand was a core lesson held at the temple. He could remember his father bringing him out to the desert, and walking alongside him. He taught Katana how to move his feet, how to go unnoticed among the dunes. His tail curled around his abdomen, leaving no trail. Katana approached the ledge, sand turning into stone. The other demon stayed still, Katana assumed they hadn’t seen him. The bladesman let out a wild growl, and brought out his sword. He saw the other demon stiffen and whip their head around. Katana charged, thrusted his blade through their lower abdomen, and knocked them off, sand puffing up where they had fallen. There was a brief moment where Katana paused. He peered down. The demon’s body was curled in on itself, shaking. The large demon jumped down from the rock. He drew his blade, slowly circling the twitching demon. Katana made sure his gear was aimed at their flesh. He growled again, noticing how the shorter demon stopped moving. Blood stained the sand, and it was starting to flow further.They looked up, and Katana heard slight words being formed from the other male.“No wait,” A cough came out of the demon’s mouth. “You don’t- Please spare me.”Katana quickly jumped on top of him, aiming his blade at the Blackrocker’s neck.“That’s enough! I’ll slit your throat, that’ll shut you up!”“You’re beautiful.”Katana jumped back. It was unexpected. No one in his entire life had even uttered words remotely similar to those. In his mind, the pieces started to put themselves together.Tossing his blade aside, Katana raced over to the other demon. Tears flowing from his eye, making his mask stuffy and hot. He scooped Hyperlaser up and cradled him close.“I thought you died…” The taller one murmured. Hyperlaser said nothing, instead coughing slightly. Katana quickly panicked, realizing the mercenary was nearly bleeding out. “Shit, I-, fuck.” Katana gently set Hyperlaser down and ripped off his sleeves. Tying them together, he made a makeshift tourniquet. Katana wrapped it around Hyperlaser and tightened it. “There.” He said. Hyperlaser weakly nodded, not saying anything. He brought up a hand and rested it on Katana’s knee.“You should go. Someone’s coming to replace me soon. They’ll have another demon with them, to act as a guide for me.” The sniper whispered. “I promise we’ll see each other again.” Hyperlaser gave a soft cough before squeezing the taller’s knee. “Before you go, please, let me see your face again. I fear I may forget it if you keep that mask on all the time.”Katana stiffened. He brought his hands up to the wooden mask, but brought them back down. Katana shook his head and stood. “There’s no need. This is my new face.”Hyperlaser sighed and rolled over in the sand. “Then I’ll remember it.”Inhaling a large breath of air, Katana could smell the familiar whiff of Blackrock growing stronger. Without saying anything, he started to trudge through the sand.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Night expanded over the sky again. Banhammer pushed on though. A sleeping Scythe perched on his shoulders, her soft snoring being one of the only sounds he could hear. Back and forth. That’s how his life felt right now. One minute, Banhammer was among the sandy dunes, chasing and laughing with Scythe. The next, he was back home. Now however, it was back and forth between Blackrock, and the faction's main camp. He could see how the long escorts fatigued Scythe. Especially when said escorts contained Medkit and Subspace. They were good kids, truely. But the extra burden of watching them just added one more thing to spend energy on. The demigod huffed. His armor was hot, and he prayed Scythe would wake up soon. She was their navigator after all. Her swift movements through the sand, and her watchful eye at the stars helped them reach the right place. Banhammer swayed slightly, his feet dragging. He knew it was time to stop. They had been traveling for all of daylight, and some hours into the moonlight. Scythe said by tomorrow they would make it to the camp.Dropping to the ground, Banhammer carefully laid Scythe down onto the sand. He gave the area a quick survey before laying down beside her. They were in an open plain. No rocks were in sight, nor burrows. Granted, Banhammer was terrified of the idea of going underground in such a small space. The demigod pulled her close, curling his tail around hers. He looked up to the ever moving stars, praying to himself that no stray patrols were out. Slowly resting his head, Banhammer was lulled to sleep by the soft breeze rolling over him and the demon near.“Then maybe you shouldn’t have slept with that nasty thing on.” Scythe flicked in between Banhammer’s eyes. The demigod was busy complaining how his head hurt, specifically where his blindfold rested. He brought his clawed fingers up to rub at his temples.“Yeah yeah…” Banhammer grumbled. Scythe skipped forward, happy to lead them onward.“The camp is near.” She said, her head turning to look at different sculptures littered in the sand. Some were broken while others were perfectly intact. They portrayed figures Banhammer was unfamiliar with. They all looked heroic though, a weapon held tightly in their stone grasp. Scythe seemed unbothered by their presence, but Banhammer had a gut feeling that something was wrong. A few more feet, and they stopped at the base of a large sand dune. Past this was the camp. Banhammer walked a few more steps to stand next to Scythe. They stared at the looming sand, then gave a glance to each other. Countless times they had climbed it, but it didn’t make the trek any easier.“Do you want me to carry you?” Banhammer asked, his eyes flickering to her missing arm for a few seconds before focusing back on her face.The snake demon thought for a minute before rushing forward. She awkwardly clawed up the steep sand. The hill shifted around her and ultimately Scythe came tumbling back down. She landed at Banhamer’s feet and sheepishly looked up at him. The demi god got the jist and threw Scythe over his shoulder. She giggled, her limbs going limp. Banhammer began the long climb up the sand hill. It was a little jarring every now and then to feel the larger demon drop from underneath her. Slight stumbles and trips were expected, but Banhammer’s size made the motions much more exaggerated.“You good up there?” Banhammer asked, gunting a bit.“Just dandy!” She kicked her legs a little.The pair reached the summit. Banhammer dumped Scythe off, and they looked onward. Blackrock’s largest camp sat a few hundred meters away from them now. Scythe stretched her back, going up on the tips of her boots. Banhammer scanned the area, his head turning around the rest of the barrier. He tapped Scythe’s shoulder quickly.“Over there. Look, there’s a demon.” Banhammer whispered. Scythe tilted her head, then looked over to where he had mentioned. She gasped, then quickly scrambled over. Banhammer yelled out in confusion, but followed her. Sand was kicked up into his face and made the purple demon sputter. He heard Scythe yell some incoherent words, and skidded to a stop. When the puffs of sand cleared he could make out her hunched shape. Another shape sat up, dark blue horns, and scraggly fur. One eye. Banhammer quirked a brow. Scythe let out a huge sigh, and helped the demon up.“Broker’s coming with.” Scythe smiled. She jostled the half awake demon. “He’s got a-”Broker quickly threw a hand to her mouth before she could finish. He instead gave Scythe a quick glare.Banhammer gave a curt nod. “Noted.” He allowed Scythe to take the lead, watching her bound down the other side of the sand hill towards the Blackrock camp. Broker followed suit, catching up to her quickly. Banhammer took a more cautious approach and descended the hill slowly and carefully. He skidded down the hill, happily joining the two other demons who had waited for him.The Blackrock guards stood up straighter, but calmed when they saw Scythe. They looked to Broker, then to Banhammer.“Only one comes with you.” One of them said, they looked over to Scythe.Scythe looked down, then grabbed Broker’s shoulder. “Him. He comes in.” The guards parted, and allowed the siblings entry. Banhammer stepped back, and took a seat near the entrance.Broker stayed close to Scythe, the eyes of Blackrock demons staying put on the two. Shuffling through teh sand, and around many crates they arrived at the medical tent. Scythe stopped.“You go in first.” She ushered to Broker. He looked at her confused. “Just go.” She handed him a dog tag, an array of numbers on them. “Our escort has the same dog tag, match the numbers and you’ve got our guy.”“Got it.” Broker clutched the dog tag and quickly entered the tent. A row of cots lined either side, and plenty of sleeping or resting bodies occupied them. He noticed an array of numbers on paper clipped to one of the corners. Broker started to go up to each cot and match the numbers.Why couldn’t Scythe help? He thought. Such a mundane and pointless task. He came to the last cot. He began to read off the numbers in his head, looking back and forth. The starting three matched up, then the next set, then- He paused, and flipped the metal over. Staring at him were the simple words he had longed to see.B. Zuka - Blackrock soldier.Broker quickly shook the sleeping form in front of him. It shifted, and groaned. Eventually Zuka sat up, groggy any confused.“ZUKA!” Broker shouted. He quickly grabbed the taller demon’s face. “Where were you?!” He looked down, panicking when he saw the bandaged stump. “Where’s your arm? I- When they brought your gun I thought… I thought you DIED!” Broker looked up into Zuka’s eyes, tears welling in his own. “Are you okay?”“Broker I-” Before Zuka could even get a word in, he felt Broker’s lips smash into his. They stayed posed like that for a few seconds before Broker pulled back, pulling the soldier into a hug.“Never scare me like that again.” Broker sobbed. Some light flooded into the tent, and Broker slowly looked behind himself. Scythe stood in the doorway.“Looks like you found him.” She grinned. Broker let out a weak laugh.Zuka sighed and shifted around, trying to get up. Broker moved over. The soldier stretched and bent over to grab a leather bag. The pair walked over to Scythe, and they exited the tent.Zuka slung his good arm around Broker. “You did a fine job with my gear, thank you for getting the blood off.”“Anytime.”

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Silver King was in a tight corner. His head rested in his hands, and he sighed. The flicker of the oil lamp was a nice thing to keep his eye trained on. The leader tensed his muscles. All around him lay crates filled with gold, jewelry, and other items of wealth. Each one from devoted followers of the Father. In front of him was hung an elegant tapestry, displaying the green eye he had devoted his life to. Overseer watched over him, he knew this to be true. So there had to be a reason Katana ran. There had to be a reason for all of this. Silver King hunched over further, feeling his robe strain against his back. His heels clicked against the floor in thought. A thought came to him suddenly, and he slowly sat up. Broker had no desire to lead, he could see it. There was no drive, no motivation. Silver King could live with that. He looked over to the tapestry. Yes, he would still have an heir, he would still bring honor to his ancestors. He stood up, and bowed at the hung fabric before exiting the offering room.The dining room table was quiet. The sound of silverware occasionally hitting the ceramic bowls and plates seemed louder than usual.“Don’t your kids join you for dinner?” Axis asked, his fork stabbing into the roasted lizard.“They’re too busy to eat.” Silver King murmured. He gave the Blackrock leader a quick glare. It was a subtle reminder that Axis was the one who had requested both Scythe and Broker to run little errands for him. They continued to eat in silence, not wanting to say anything wrong. The empty chairs around the table were a good thing to focus on. There was no one to look at there, so no judgment. Silver King could see Axis looking around the room, his fur slightly pointed down from the heat.“Any news on Katana?”“No.” Silver King snapped. “He could be dead for all I care.” He shoved a piece of lizard in his mouth. Axis burst out laughing, some chunks of food flying onto the table. The shorter demon cackled and slammed his fist down on the table.“This! This is quite the change!” Axis hollered. He clutched his abdomen as the last laughs belted out of him. “I thought Katna was your only son?”Silver King waited a few seconds to respond, trying to pick his words carefully. “I’ve come to a realization.” He poked at the remaining food with his fork. “That this was all part of the Father’s plan for me.” He could see Axis stiffen, but the demon quickly relaxed again.“I understand. I hope… I hope you’re right.” Axis settled down, taking another large mouthful of the lizard. They continued the rest of their meal in silence. Forks clattered against empty plates, and Silver King abruptly stood up. His chair was pushed backwards, and made an awful sound. Axis snapped his head up, but resumed finishing the rest of his meal. Silver King set his plate and utensils in the sink before briskly walking out. Axis was left alone to finish his meal in silence.The Lost Temple demon slunk around the church. He inspected the wooden pews, making sure each slot had a psalm book and that there were no unwanted items. Strolling up to the altar, Silver King bowed. When he rose back up, his glass eye thumped comfortably back onto his chest. He stepped up the sandstone stair and placed both palms on the altar.“Father,” Silver King whispered. “Lead me to the right path, and please, guide me.” The leader began to mumble other prayers, some he had heard in passing from other members. His trail wof words were interrupted though by the clicking of boots. Silver King slowly turned to see Axis standing at the bottom stair. “Bow.” Silver King said. “Then you come up.”Axis obeyed, and gave the alter a confused yet appropriate bow before stepping up and joining Silver King’s side. “You have a lovely church.” He smiled. “It reminds me of-”“Shh.” Silver King hushed the other demon. Axis rocked on his heels, observing the taller demon and making sure he didn’t get too tense. Sighing, Axis slowly walked over to examine the rest of the altar. Tapestries and decorations were placed delicately around, and some dried flowers accented the corners. Silver King stayed hunched over the altar, his knuckles white, and his muscles tense. Occasionally, he would inhale sharply and exhale loudly. Axis paid no mind to it, opting to pretend he didn’t hear it at all. The Blackrock demon stepped down onto the sandstone step, about to leave and explore the rest of the church. Silver King’s voice echoed once again. “Bow before you leave.” Axis nodded, and gave the altar a curt bow before walking off to look at the other aspects of the church. Silver King remained unmoving, and didn’t bother to say goodbye to Axis, instead piping up one last time. “Scythe will escort you and Zuka home when you’re ready. I hope your stay was enjoyable.”“It was a pleasure staying with you.” Axis responded. He gave Silver King a last glance before slowly exiting the main church. His desire to explore was slowly fading, and he thought it would be best to go to bed early tonight. The trip back home would be long, and Axis knew Zuka wouldn’t be talking much. A small part of the Blackrock demon hoped Silver King would dramatically turn around and beg for Axis to wait, then apologize profusely for all their misunderstandings. It was a foolish notion, but one Axis thought of often.The sun rose once more. Silver King stood tall next to his daughter. She was looking down, fiddling with her water jug. A few yards ahead, Broker and Zuka were saying their goodbyes. The taller promising to write, and Broker nodding excitedly. Axis was still yet to be spotted. Silver King put an idle hand on Scythe’s shoulder, startling her. She looked up at her father, confused. Silver King continued to look ahead.“I’ll await your return.” He said, removing his hand.Scythe relaxed, and put her hands in her pockets. “I’ll look forward to coming home.” It was the polite response.Eventually Axis came out, slinging a large water jug over his shoulder. Zuka perked up, and started to say his final goodbyes to Broker. Scythe branched off from her father, opting to begin the small trip to the city gates, leading Zuka. Axis briefly stopped in front of Silver King. He gave the leader a quick nod, which Silver King returned. “I’ll see you soon.” Axis said, Silver King said nothing, but a small smile perked on his lips. The Blackrock leader returned it with a bigger and tootheir one, then proceeding to bound off towards Scythe and Zuka. Broker shuffled inside, a small to-do list crumpled in his hand. Silver King remained outside, watching the escort group make their way to the gates. He pondered, and a soft smile grew a little wider. He had made the right choice.Scythe had tuned out Axis’s long rambles about an hour ago. Seer, did he ever shut up? Zuka had gone quiet from their first steps to now. She just wanted this escort to be over with. Banhammer had gone to no man’s land again, and left her alone with the nut case. She scratched her socket, and went to twist open the lid of her canteen. She raised the leather container to her lips, but Axis jostled her a bit.“Are you listening?” He questioned. Scythe nodded, lying. “Perfect! Then you’re on board with my plan right?”Scythe paused, walking a little slower. “Could you repeat the plan? I uh, didn’t hear you.”“Oh! Well, Subspace has been showing us some wonderful data sets with his crystal. I was wondering if you could escort him next week to the eastway camp? I want to do some testing.” Axis smiled.“Testing?” Scythe asked, lowering her canteen. Zuka raised a brow, his opinion staying silent.“Yes! You’ve seen his mines before have you not? I think we could use them to our benefit.”Scythe’s eye widened. She heard Zuka let out a quiet sigh. They gave each other a pointed look, a shared message ringing between the both of them.Axis was a fucking nut case sometimes.

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The eastway’s camp walls loomed over Scythe and Subspace. The tween was visibly shaking. His chest was puffed out, and his shoulders straight. But his hands betrayed him, as they were clasped together and squeezing tight.“Why didn’t Medkit come with?” Subspace asked. His voice shook slightly.“He has other things to attend to.” Scythe replied, she patted Subspace’s back. “You’ll be just fine on your own.”He gulped, and nodded. The cultist smiled and led them up to the front gates. The guards stiffened. They relaxed when seeing Subspace’s Blackrock ID, and Scythe’s escort permit. Like robots, they moved out of the way and allowed the camp door to be opened, and let the pair pass on through. The camp was smaller, but Scythe could see how battle hungry the soldiers were. Some were cleaning their gears, others were reading letters or looking at maps. The way they carried themselves, and how stiff they all seemed, Scythe could tell they were on edge. They briskly walked through the camp, Taking sharp turns, and avoiding eye contact with the other demons. Subspace kept his stance broad, and tried to paint himself as proud and not nervous. Scythe halted at a large tent, a large number 1 painted on the right flap. There wasn’t exactly a way to knock, so the demon yelled out. Stating her name, purpose, and Subspace’s presence. The fabric was quickly thrown open. A tall, lanky demon appeared. His horns were a dull red, and his fur looked like it had seen better days.“Hello! I’ve been expecting you two, come in!” He held the flap open for Scythe and Subspace to enter. Inside, the tent was well organized. A large map of the desert and jungle lay sprawled out on a center table. There were plenty of shelves. Jars filled with metal bullets lined the shelves. A large magnet sat dead center on the table, and to Scythe it looked heavy and clunky. “Like it?” The taller Blackrock demon gestured to the magnet. “She’s real nice in battle.”“That’s your gear?” Subspace leaned over the table to get closer to the large thing.“Born and raised with her.” He sauntered over and nodded for Scythe to join them at the table. He held out a calloused hand, claws chipped and short. “Magnet, and you?”“Scythe, I’m sure you’ve heard of me.” The cultist took his hand and gave it a firm shake.“I have. All good things don’t worry.” He chuckled. “Thank you for bringing us Subspace, the group is eager to train him.”“I bet.” She glanced over to Subspace, his wonder slowly fading.“You’re leaving?” The shorter demon asked, his eyes staying trained on the maps.“I have too.” Scythe patted Subspace’s back. “Father wants me to stick around for a bit. The sooner I get home the better.” Her words didn’t seem to help. Subspace sharply turned away. Scythe took this as her time to leave. She gave a quick wave to Magnet before heading out the tent at a brisk pace. Subspace would be fine here. The soldiers seemed friendly enough for Blackrock standards. She exited the camp, the guards bidding her safe travels. Before she could get very far, she heard Subspace calling out. She turned around to see the tween running at her. He skidded to a stop, sand spraying everywhere.“Please, tell Medkit I’ll miss him!” Subspace pleaded. “I’m sure he’s very lonely!”Scythe grinned. She knew Medkit was doing just fine, but nodded anyway. “I’ll be sure to relay the message.” The younger demon’s eyes lit up and he gave her a loud thank you before rushing off back into the camp. The guards quickly looked back from the inner walls, back to Scythe before shrugging the ordeal off. She gave the camp one last overview before starting her trek home. The sun was starting to descend into the hot sands. Scythe sighed and adjusted her wide brimmed hat.Walking into an empty church was jarring. Normally a few stray demons were kneeled at a pew. But today, it was empty. To be honest, the whole city felt quieter. Had something happened? She carefully made her way to the back and pushed open the door. It led to a dark hallway. Scythe slipped in, following the familiar path that eventually led to the house.The oil lamps were still on, so either Broker or her father were up. She walked around, making sure her boots made as much noise as possible. She wanted someone to know she was home, and not stranded out in the sands. Her march around was cut short by a door opening. Scythe saw her father walk out of the office room, his casual robes dragging behind him.“You’re home.” He said, voice low. “Did it go well?”“Very well.” Scythe said, her stance becoming more rigid and still. “I think Subspace will fit in just fine.”Silver King nodded and walked a few steps in front of Scythe. He stopped, and slightly turned his head to look at her. “Walk with me will you? I have a few things I need to discuss with you.”She nodded, and followed her father through the halls. He was quiet for the first minute. His hands stayed locked behind his back, and his posture was straight and commanding.“You’ve been doing well on your escorts.” He broke the silence. “I applaud you for that.”Scythe tilted her head slightly, but didn’t pry on the compliment. “Thank you.” She said softly.“We both know Broker won’t be taking after me. He has no interest, no ambition.” Silver King paused in front of a door. He opened it, and nudged Scythe in. She walked in, then saw the other door. Silver King made his way over to it, and opened it as well. They stepped out onto a high balcony. The railings were delicately carved, and it loomed over the city. The moon was shining now, and stars speckled throughout the sky. Silver King stepped to the raining, and Scythe followed. There were a few beats of silence before Scythe piped up.“What are you saying?” She knew exactly what her father was going to ask. But she rather make him say it.“You have the ambition that Katana never had.” Silver King turned to look at his daughter. His glass eye necklace staring as well. “Which is why you’ll be training under me from now on. You will take over when I die.”Scythe smiled. This is what she needed. This is what she had wanted. Finally, she could rip this damned cult from her father’s claws. And finally, she could show her true power.“Go rest now. You’ll begin your training tomorrow.” Silver King dismissed her.The snake demon briskly left. She slipped around in the halls until finding her room. Scythe grinned and looked at the few ornamental horns hung on her wall when she entered. No longer would she just be a measly desert criminal.No, Scythe had bigger plans. Her gaze fell on the space above her headboard. One day, a special pair of horns would get the privilege of hanging there. But even Scythe knew that day would be far away into the future.

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Lava bubbled around the rocky pathways. Cages swung from their chains, and the prisoners were just as noisy as before. Banhammer trudged through the prison, his armor not giving his body any grace. Windforce had important meetings to attend to, so here he was. Gear hoisted over his shoulder, and boots sinking into the ground, Banhammer would rather be anywhere then here. Worst of the worst came to the Banlands. Hell, there were even special prisons reserved for criminals yet to be caught. Passing by one of the cages, he heard the rattle of a snake’s tail. Banhammer whipped around, eyes darting all around. He sheepishly turned around though when the pink horned demon inside the cell gave him an odd stare.“Scared of a rattler?” He asked. Their eye socket bore holes into Banhammer’s own eyes. It was an ugly scar, messy and tattered. He gave the demigod a toothy grin, his fangs having been pulled out.“No, I was just… startled.” Banhammer re adjusted his gear, making sure it sat comfortably on his shoulder. The snake-like demon sighed, and slunk away into his cell, his tail being the last thing Banhammer saw before he disappeared into the shadows. Banhammer continued to walk, on edge now. He scanned the other ground cells, their bars cemented into the rocks. Eyes peered at him, but they never bothered Banhammer too much. Some prisoners threw insults, and clattered their claws against the metal bars, but he never paid any mind to them. Rounding a corner, he came upon an empty cell. There was no prison number, or any name. Just an empty nameplate and wide open door. Banhammer went closer, peeking in and scanning the small space. It was clean, and the bars were untarnished. It was a new cell. Banhammer came to that conclusion fairly quickly. And by the look of it, it was waiting for the perfect occupant. Banhammer sighed and retreated from the cell. He continued his rounds, thinking of other miscellaneous things.It was around sundown when Windforce made her grand entrance into the prison. Wind whipping all around her towering figure. Prisoners quickly slunk to the back of their cells, and not a word was uttered.“Banhammer!” She called out, grabbing her son and giving him a strong hug. “How was the prison?”“Good.” Banhammer dusted himself off when she placed him back down. “No one tried to escape or anything.”Windforce gave a firm nod, and led her son out of the prison. He could see the silhouettes of guards begin the night rounds.When the moon was at the peak of it’s journey across the sky, Banhammer found himself in the desert. He was sitting on a cliff, overlooking the bright city of Lost Temple. It had been around a month, and no sign of Scythe. No escort missions he had intercepted, nothing. He hunched over, and sighed. Had she gotten sick of him? No, Scythe would’ve made it clear. The sudden noise of a gate opening and closing alerted him. Banhammer sat up, and looked back at the city. Someone was leaving. He scrambled over to the edge, trying to see who it was. The silhouette was unfamiliar, but the stance was. Tall, proud, and untouchable.Silver King gave a curt nod to the guards before lighting a small lantern. He held the iron cage, his cloak concealing some of the light. The True Eye leader began his walk, tail dragging behind him. The cold night air proved to be an annoyance, and mid way through the trek, his lungs began to hurt. Silver King cursed his aging body and thinning hair. It was an awful curse of mortality. But yet, he persisted into the night.—------Banhammer slowly closed the door behind him, being sure not to wake Windforce. He took off his armor, and changed into something more comfortable. He took a shaky breath. Scythe had been missing for a while, and now Silver King was going out at night. Mortal demons were confusing, but Banhamme decided it was best not to judge. He flopped down into his bed, and stretched. Curling in on himself, the demigod frowned. He missed the late nights escorting Subspace and Medkit, and how Scythe would stay with him. He missed her toothy grin, and snarky comments. 1 month. 1 month and he was worrying like this. Banhammer slapped his face, groaning. Boy, he was cooked. Deciding not to dwell on the subject any longer, Banhammer closed his eyes and begged sleep to take over him.Silver King stepped up onto the porch, the night air surrounding him. Wooden floorboards creaked, and a pair of eyes lit up the dark.Axis smiled, and came out to greet the taller demon. “You actually came?”“How could I not?” Silver King grumbled. He entered the house, cringing at the way the wood moved. Axis followed close behind, practically bouncing off the walls. “I’ll have to leave in the morning.” Silver King allowed Axis to lead him further into the house.“I know!” The Blackrock demon said. He opened the door. It screamed on its hinges, and the wood looked ready to break. “But it’s nice just to talk eh?”“I suppose.” Silver King set the lantern down on a night stand. “Now, what did you want to tell me that was so important.”“I want to discuss the future.” Axis took a step forward. “Our future.”

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The moon lit the old cabin well. Some sand was piled up in corners, and the chairs looked like they were on their last life. Silver King didn’t know how he got here. Axis draped over him, snoring. A wool blanket covered them both, and the mattress sagged slightly due to the weight of both demons. The cult leader looked over at the nightstand. His crown rested on it, the moon light hitting it perfectly. He sighed, and maneuvered out from underneath Axis. The shorter one stirred, but didn’t wake. Silver King quietly tip-toed out of the cabin. His breath was visible in the air, and his fur stood on its ends. He dropped to his knees in the sand, eye wide and figure shaking. He was miles away from home, a whole day’s worth. He had a family to look after, and here he was galavanting with some… some.. Idiot from Blackrock! He folded over, bowing to the sky. He whispered prayers to the Father, begging for forgiveness and redemption.He had taken a wife. He had pulled his own children out of the spawn pool. He had watched them all grow. He had devoted his entire life to Overseer. He would not throw it all away now, not for Axis.He was no sinner.Katana was a sinner. Katana deserved eternal damnation for his actions.Silver King did not.Standing up, he trudged back into the cabin. He made sure to watch for creaky floorboards, and winced when one let out a shrill cry. The stairs were no better. They hollered and shouted every time he stepped up, announcing his presence. How embarrassing, he thought. Instead of trumpets and a festival, he was being praised by some shitty stairs. Was this what he deserved? Was this the closest he’d ever get to a party? A big celebration in the streets? Axis had told him stories of Blackrock’s festivals. And how they praised their leader. Silver King had grown slightly jealous. He lived in a quiet religion, where praise was given quietly. Granted, the eye opening ceremonies could get a little loud. But he chalked it up to all the emotions that were present.Stepping up the last step, the creaky celebration ended. The cabin returned to silence, and Silver King turned to face the bedroom. The door was left wide open, and Axis was still sleeping. He entered, and walked up to the edge of the bed. He would admit, it was creepy to just stare at the Blackrocker for a few minutes. But what else could he do? Succumb and crawl back in? No, he’d just be proving a point then. Silver King studied Axis’s features. The way he rested his head, as to not lay on his horns. They way he’d breathe quietly one time, then snore the next. His fur wasn’t even standing up, if anything the demon looked like he was warmer. Silver King looked away, and turned to face his crown. It stared back at him. It taunted him. He grabbed it, tightly clenching it in his hands. As much as he wanted to break the damn thing, he couldn’t. This crown was a gift from Overseer, his gear. It was what had set him apart from his brothers. Being the eldest, and the one to carry such a crown, Silver King’s fate had been set from the start. His whole life had been planned out. Granted, he got to choose who he married, and most other things. But one thing stayed constant. Silver King would become the True Eye’s leader. He would continue the legacy onward. And he was intent to do just that. Axis would not tempt him. Axis would not crush what he had worked so hard to build. Silver King put the crown on his head, and swiftly exited the cabin.The ink dried fast. The letter was prominent, and written in his finest writing. Silver King smiled, and folded the paper up neatly. He placed it in an envelope, and sealed it with wax and the True Eye’s stamp.It took a few days, but the letter reached Axis. The Blackrock leader was ecstatic to see the familiar symbol in green wax. He tore open the envelope, grinning and making excited noises. When he had woken up to see no sign of Silver King, he had grown worried. Had something happened to him? Or maybe the Swords finally smited the old guy. This letter was proof though that Silver King probably just had some business he needed to attend to.Axis unfolded the letter, face softening at the familiar handwriting.“Dear Axis,As I’m sure you are aware, my aid in this war is no longer needed. Scythe will no longer go on escorts, and my people will no longer aid yours. My savings will no longer be found in your pockets. This will be taken into effect on the full moon of next month. I will no longer be present in meetings as well, in my place will be my daughter. I expect you to treat her with respect. I also will read no further letters from you, if you wish to send one. Your ideas shall not taint me. Your false gods have done nothing but cause death and destruction, and I will not allow my people to fall victim to that. I think you, as a leader, should understand that? No?-Silver King, of the Lost Temple”Axis dropped the letter. His eyes wide, and body static. What had happened? What could’ve caused this? He scrambled for the paper again, rereading it over and over. Maybe he had read it wrong? No, every word remained the same. The Blackrock leader felt tears prick at his eyes.What sick joke was this? Axis crumpled the letter. Hell, if Silver King’s plans didn’t take effect right away, he might as well use them up while he can. Angrily, he stormed out of his office, rotating a pen in his right hand.Silver King had never changed.

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The war was coming to a close. Hyperlaser and many other Blackrock soldiers knew that as a fact. Lost Temple had withdrawn its aid, and the Playground demons were getting picked off one by one. Once dense jungles and lush expanses of trees soon became barren wastelands. He felt bad. Hyperlaser had always hated how boring Blackrock’s landscapes looked. That was the one thing he enjoyed about his travels. Seeing all the new land, and how it all fit together. The different birds and animals that would be spotted on a good day. It all made him smile. But now, sitting against a rotting tree, made him frown. This whole war was pointless. He had heard time and time again how he should’ve never lost his face. How he had deserved better. Hyperlaser was tired of it. Though, he was grateful for the final order. As gruesome as it was, it was the final one. Axis hadn’t sent out this order. No, the spineless leader had gone silent for the past week. This order came to him in a crumpled letter, with scribbled writing.Branches breaking alerted the sniper. Hyperlaser looked up, his visor slowly fading in the details. A square box appeared, and began to track the noise. After a few seconds of silence a flock of birds burst through the bushes. He sighed, and lowered his head once more. Nothing had happened. Barely anything was here anymore. He had heard rumors of Playgrounders retreating even thicker into the jungle, and he didn’t blame them. Blackrock’s technology was superb. Hyperlaser was surprised there hadn’t been even more damage. He inhaled deeply. Damp, wet air filled his lungs. He shuddered slightly. His gun was loaded, the safety on. Three shots. He had three shots to carry this out. His visor flickered to life again, temperatures and other useless weather information displayed in the top left corner. The time was displayed in the upper right. He huffed, and tapped the side of his helmet. A prompt appeared on screen.“Connect to scope?” was displayed in bold letters. He double tapped the side again. Three loading dots replaced the prompt. It took a few seconds for them to disappear. A crosshair fading into view. Hyperlaser sighed, and stood up. The world around him was analyzed as he began to walk forward. Threat level bars and noise levels flickered in the corners. He continued to march on. Leaves became denser, and the grass soon became greener. The sky was blotted out by trees and other foliage. Hyperlaser clicked down the charge lever on his gun. The whirring began, and his heartbeat sped up.He wanted to do this. Hyperlaser remembered nodding and shaking his hand.The smell of burning wood accompanied the other smells.He was close.Hyperlaser pushed on. His feet ached, and his body was ready for a nap. But he steadily followed the smell of a campfire. It was a foolish mistake.A deadly mistake.Fire crackled between the two demons. It was late. And they had lost the other Playground troops. Steampunk’s broad figure blocked any wind coming towards the fire. Shark shivered slightly. His thinner body didn’t offer much.“When do you reckon it’ll all be over?” Shark asked, voice wavering.“Soon. Hopefully.” Steampunk answered. They clicked off their mask, a jaw filled with scars and other marks illuminated by the fire. They hunched over closer to the flames. Shark copied the action, scratching at his horns.“You think Bombo’s doing any good?”“He’ll be fine. Bastard knows how to get into safe spaces.”Shark hummed. Steampunk was right. The wind kicked up slightly, and the smaller demon shivered. “Madness.” He whispered.“Do you hear that?” Steampunk suddenly sat up. Their eyes wide and alert.“No?” Shark looked around, just the sound of the wind was on his ears. “I think the lack of sleep is getting to you.” He laughed, and went to double over.BANG!The noise practically rattled the clearing. Shark gasped for air, and looked down. He paused, staring at the gaping hole where his stomach should’ve been. He looked up, Steampunk looking equally as shocked. Shark screamed bloody hell. He fell backwards, shaking and trembling as his body tried to process what was going on. His muscles spasmed and he cried out.“THOSE BASTARDS!” Hot tears rolled down his face as he cursed the Swords, all seven of them. His vision grew blurry, but that didn’t stop him from continuing his cries. He thrashed around on the ground, clawing and kicking up dirt. Those fuckers had promised him protection. Promised him his brother. Assholes, all of them. He let out one last scream, and felt everything around him grow dark. He heard muffled voices. It sounded like Steampunk. He tried to smile, to move, to say something. But even their voice was fading. Shark didn’t like dying. It hurt. It was quick, but he still didn’t like it.He didn’t like the feeling of a sharp pain jabbing his right arm.He didn’t like the 20 green eyes staring at him.“I thought we had a deal.” Shark spoke. His voice raspy, and he was surprised he could even speak.“A shame you had to ruin it.” The entity laughed. “We were looking forward to seeing the monstrosity you made.”“I had to take what I could.” Shark hissed. “Not every demon’s limbs were gonna match up.” He tried to look around, but all he could look at were the eyes. “I didn’t have much to go off of anyways, his body was mutilated.”The eyes suddenly came closer, and a sinister smile accompanied them. “We had fun watching you.” They all became unblinking, and focused on the demon. “But now we’ll get blamed for your actions, that isn’t very nice is it?” Shark began to tremble.The fire was quickly put out. Shark’s spasming body was shaking the grass. Steampunk could only stare at it, then back up to the familiar Blackrock sniper. “I-” Steampunk stepped back.Hyperlaser remind still, gun aimed down. “My work is done.” He said, voice muffled from his helmet. Steampunk backed up, and ran off into the woods. Their clothes got ripped on branches and bushes, but they didn’t care. They ran deeper into the woods, and began tripping over more things.This was stupid, the Swords were stupid. It was their fault this whole mess was happening. They skidded to a stop, mud spraying up around them.Maybe those cult freaks were doing it right.

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Eye Opening ceremonies were Scythe’s least favorite thing to clean. Blood was sprayed all over the stage, and never stayed in one place. Thankfully most of it was still wet. Dried blood was a beast to clean. Scythe slapped the wet mop onto the wooden stage. She pushed it back and forth, trying to get the most blood out. Broker knelt down a few feet away from her, scrubbing the harder spots and drying what she had mopped. More demons were joining the cult now, ones with wealth and the promise of a financial boost. Scythe wondered if soon the Lost Temple would look like Blackrock. The advanced tech, and paved roads and sidewalks, and even just the overall culture. It looked expensive. The tall and crowded buildings contrasted from the small homes Scythe was so used to seeing.“Do you think the war has ended by now?” Scythe asked, she had been out of the loop. Her time being taken up by training. She paused her moping to look over at her brother.Broker shrugged. “I think it’s finally coming to a close.” He continued to scrub, occasionally giving it more umph.Scythe clicked her tongue at the short answer. Continuing to mop, she thought some more.How had life moved on? Scythe was basically living full time in the temple. She only really left the gates for special occasions, and harvests. Her father also started venturing outside the gates more. He went on many trips and would sometimes bring home a gift or two. She slapped the mop down and paused again. Her gut twisted, and her tail stiffened. It had been weeks, and she hadn’t heard of Banhammer. Normally the brute was somehow able to send a letter, or even just drop down from the sky. But his voice had gone static.“I’m going out.” Scythe dropped her mop. Broker huffed and looked up at her, his eye betraying annoyance. She smiled back at him and took off.Oil lamps lined the hallway, and while she walked, Scythe buttoned up her coat vest. Her boots clicked nicely against the sandstone, and her undershirt was freshly washed. Reaching the end of the exit, she grabbed a hat. She had plenty, but today she decided a wide brim would be best, the sun seemed awful. She pushed open the wooden door, and shielded her eye from the harsh light for a second before stepping out. She walked briskly through the city streets, watching spawnlings play and shout. She could see some older demons talking at the well, their darting eyes and close together heads made it seem secretive. Lost Temple life buzzed all around her, but she kept going forward to the city gates.Arriving at the newly polished metal, the two inner guards gave her a swift nod before opening the gates. Scythe nodded back in gratitude, and took off into the desert. Her legs danced across the sand, her stride even and unbreaking. She had taught herself more efficient ways to travel across the sandy dunes. Looking up at the sky, there was a single cloud. It was wispy and small, overall the most pathetic cloud she had seen. She huffed, and continued to look onward. A few more strides went by, and she looked up again. The wispy cloud was gone, replaced by the Sun’s scorching gaze. Scythe reasoned she was a good amount into the desert now. There was nothing but sand and the occasional cactus now, no towns or oases could be seen. And no sign of Banhammer. Defeated, Scythe sat down and criss crossed her legs. She shifted her hands through the sand, letting the grains fall through her fingers. The wide brimmed hat casted an awkward shadow, and she adjusted it slightly. Looking to the horizon, a large puff of sand sprouted from the ground. Scythe shot up, tail straight and alert. Something, or someone was here. A wild grin grew on Scythe’s face as she saw the cloud draw nearer. Heavy vibrations soon were felt in the ground. As much as she admired his strength, Banhammer was the exact opposite of stealthy.Coming crashing through the sand, the larger demon excitedly tripped over and fell in front of Scythe. She burst out laughing, Banhammer joining in.“Where have you been!?” Banhammer shouted, standing up and enveloping Scythe in a bone crushing hug.Scythe let out a few strained laughs. “Training.”Banhammer tilted his head. “For what?”The snake demon felt her gut twist. Would he really want to know? “Combat, that’s what.” She pulled out a small dagger from her pocket, and tapped it against the light metal that Banhammer wore for protection. “I could do a number on your little tin can suit.”“Oh really?” Banhammer questioned. Scythe could tell he had raised a brow, as one side of his blindfold had raised up slightly. She put the dagger back in an inside pocket, and backed up.“I don’t even need the dagger!” She started to run at Banhammer, taking him off guard. Scythe jumped and climbed up him like a cat, she was basically forcing the poor guy to give her a surprise piggy back ride. Banhammer spun around, taken off guard.“Vermin!” He playfully shouted, trying to get her off. Scythe stayed stuck on, her claws denting his armor. She wrapped her tail around his waist for a better grip. Banhammer laughed as he tried to pry her off, Scythe laughed more so at him. Eventually, He used his brain and started to fall backwards. Scythe gasped before scrambling to get up on his shoulders. She thanked seer when the cloud of sand died down, and Scythe was on top of the purple demon.“Looks like I won.” She snickered, sitting up on the demigod’s chest.“I’m blaming the heat.” Banhammer sighed, and let his body go slack in defeat.

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A treaty had been declared, and signed. Playground and Blackrock’s brutal war had finally come to an end. Silver King had reluctantly gone, forced to at least oversee the fairness with Xanwood. When the four leaders returned home, a huge party was thrown across the Inpherno. Demons partied all night, singing songs of joy and celebrating the end of a war. The people of Lost Temple brought out their finest whiskey. The oil lamps were lit all night, and desert flowers could be found across the streets. Scythe dressed in her nice uniform, and Broker in his. It was a nice green undershirt, though, Scythe thought it would look better if it were teal.The streets were packed. Scythe struggled to duck around people and find a nice secluded spot. There was a band playing up by the well, their music drifting all around. She could see spawnlings dragging their tired parents around. It was the most lively she had ever seen Lost Temple. Pushing past other demons, Scythe made her way back to the temple. The moon would soon reach its highest point, and then, the celebration would truly begin.Silver King stood tall on the top step. A crowd surrounded the temple stairs, and guards forbade them from going any further. Scythe tripped out, and passed the guards. She quickly climbed up the stairs and joined her family. Silver King gave her a curt nod before speaking.“My people,” He raised his arms. “Tonight we celebrate the end of a war.” The demons all cheered and clapped. When the noise died down, he continued. “I thank all of you for your bravery and commitment throughout the battle. And with that, our region has been blessed.” The lanky demon reached down into his robe pocket and pulled out a coin. It was 1 dollar in Lost Temple currency. “Our economy has grown, and our wealth has doubled. We celebrate not only the end of a war, but the beginning of a new era!”The crowd below went feral. Demons hugged one another, and more and more cheers were heard. Shouts, whistles, claps, you name it! The entirety of Lost Temple was screaming. Scythe looked over to Broker, who smiled back at her. Silver King tapped Scythe on the shoulder with his tail. She turned to look up at him.“I must attend to important issues.” He put the coin back in his pocket. “You stay out of trouble.” He gave her a harsh glare, and his pupils turned to slits for a second before relaxing again. The cultist then briskly walked through the temple doors and out of sight. Scythe looked back down into the crowd. It was starting to break up now, and she could see groups pushing their way into taverns. The guards remained unmoved. Their gears remained ready, and their stances were rigid. Broker and Scythe hopped down the stairs. The guards gave a small bow to the both of them. Broker returned the gesture quickly before splitting up from Scythe. The snake demon watched her brother disappear into the crowd. His thin tail being the last thing she saw of him. Not wanting to be in the way, Scythe quickly found a moving group of demons and trained behind them. Some left to walk up the porch stairs of a bar, others came from the bar to find a new one. “Bar hopping” was what most called it. “Tavern hopping” was another name for it. It was popular in the city. Scythe would see posters advertising for it occasionally. She quickly got out of the way as a stumbling demon came crashing towards her. The loud thud that followed behind her made Scythe giggle slightly. The streets would crowd for a few minutes, then once everyone found a new bar or tavern, it would settle down. Scythe enjoyed it more when less demons were out. Parties were fun, don’t get her wrong, but when the whole damn city was celebrating it was… exhausting. She kicked at a stray rock, watching it tumble away and into an alleyway. Scythe turned to look into the dark area. Some wanted posters were plastered on the brick walls. Wooden doors that probably smelled like smoke and cigars were placed on the sides of each building. Looking closer, Scythe saw a looming figure. She stepped back, unsure. But it came forward. Then, illuminating the darkness, four bright purple and yellow eyes blinked open. They all focused down on Scythe. The cultist jumped back, but a large hand quickly pulled her back into the alleyway.“SHHHH!” The taller demon shushed her. Scythe immediately went slack in his grasp.“Banhammer?” She looked up at the eyes, confused. “What- How?”“I snuck in, heh.” He smiled at her. Sharp teeth on display. “I heard you were throwing a party! Thought I’d join!” Banhammer set Scythe down, keeping both his hands on her shoulders.“You’ll stick out like a sore thumb…” Scythe looked him up and down. His four eyes, large stature, and interesting attire. It wasn’t something you’d see in the desert, let alone the temple. It reminded Scythe more of what she saw in Blackrock. A collared shirt with a funky neon print, and some equally bizarre shorts. Banhammer did wear sandals, so at least his clawed feet would fit in.“I think everyone will be too drunk to realise.” He countered. Scythe thought for a long second. Banhammer was right on the part. There were plenty of demons getting shitfaced tonight. It was a gamble, a risky one. Especially with her status. Praying she was handed good cards, Scythe sighed and gestured for Banhammer to follow her.“You wanna bar hop? Listen to the music? What’s got you itching to be here so bad?” Scythe looked up and Banhammer as they walked. He put a thumb on his chin and thought.“Well maybe we can have a few drinks, yeah?” Banhammer met Scythe’s gaze. She nodded, and dragged him to the nearest bar.Inside, it was hot and stuffy. The sight of demons passed out, or close to it was practically just decor. The bartender seemed drunk himself. Scythe and Banhammer took their seats, and ordered up a drink. The bartender nodded and made each one without a fuss. The glasses clicked against the counter. Scythe took hers and raised it up, Banhammer copying.“Cheers, to the end of a pointless war.”“Cheers.” Banhammer and Scythe clinked their glasses together. They smiled at each other, and took a drink

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“-And it will act as our final gift to the Inpherno.” Silver King lowered the paper slowly. He set it on his desk, dipping his head in thought. Scythe sat across from him. Her eye fixated on the paper her father had once been reading. From what she gathered, it was an idea proposed by Xanwood. A city built in the middle of Inpherno to be used for trade, and as a home for travling demons and demons who were unaffiliated with any faction. Unaffiliated demons were becoming more common now after the war. Scythe had seen plenty of them on her harvests. They seemed happy, yet unsure of where to go. Her father tapped his claws on the desk, causing Scythe to look up at him.“So?” She asked. “Are you going to contribute?”Silver King sighed loudly. He picked the paper back up and skimmed it over again. “He ends it so… ominous.” His thin tail swayed side to side. “I knew he was old but-”“You’re pretty old.” Scythe interrupted. Silver King slowly looked at her in the eye, his pupils slitting to thin lines. She could see his lip quiver, and his hands shake slightly. He closed his eye and inhaled sharply.“I knew he was old, but I didn’t know he was close to death.” His tone was flat, annoyed as he finished his sentence. Scythe hummed, acknowledging the statement. Silver King stood up and walked over to the large (and probably outdated) map of Inpherno. It was framed and hung on the right wall. Surrounding it was the horns of previous cult leaders. “For years we have always been separate. Terrain wise, views wise, and even physically.” He turned to Scythe, folding his hands behind his back. “And now Xanwood wants us to unite.” Silver King took a clawed finger, turned back to the map and tapped it right where the city was. “The Lost Temple was always more secluded than other regions. Miles upon miles of desert surround our city.” Silver King moved his finger around the map, tracing out the region.“If you contribute,” Scythe stood up and stood next to him. “We might get more members.” She added her own claw to the map. “If they put that city here,” She tapped the center of the map. “Then we could build a public road into the desert. The main road would lead to the city, and we could go from there.”Silver King stayed silent. He turned and looked down at Scythe. “You’re clever.” He spun around and grabbed Xanwood’s letter. “I’ll consider his offer. You may go.”Scythe grinned and bowed politely. She exited the office room, shutting the door gently behind her. When she heard the latch click her smile grew wider. Her father’s age was slowly catching up. She could see it in the way he stood, the way he thought, the way he still hungered for control. He knew he would die soon. Scythe began to make her way to her room. The foundation of a central city was without a doubt beneficial to Inpherno. It would be a costly fund but worth it. She opened her door, and quickly shut it behind her. The many horns that lined her wall shined in the lamp light. She took a rag and started polishing them. Scythe thought of all the ways she’d run the cult. Would she ease up, or would she turn out just like her father. His tight grasp on the demons he ruled used to cause unease within her. It scared her even. Now it seemed the only way to run the city. Make sure everyone stayed in their own line, and make sure no one went astray. Her right shoulder began to ache. Scythe grumbled, looking down at the missing arm. Phantom pains still came around every now and then. She huffed and returned to polishing. Maybe she’d capture her traitor brother and chop his arm off. See how he liked it. She stepped down the line. Rubbing the rag over the severed horns. The older ones had dulled. Their colors no longer as bright as when she first cut them. It was a pity in her eyes. Horns once so full of life now drained and unalive. The thrill of each kill made it worth it though. Some had ran, others had begged and pleaded. She stepped to the last set, the oldest. This one, this one had never even been a target. Her smile dropped slowly. They were a pinkish gray now. Scythe started polishing them. She could barely remember the town, as it was just ruins now. She did remember seeing it blow up though. That was the fun part. Scythe set the rag down, smiling at her work.Broker and Scythe sat next to each other, perched on a windowsill. The temple had plenty of empty windows around. They acted as “air conditioning” letting wind blow in. Broker kicked his feet, Scythe opting for a more calm position. Scythe had been filling her brother in on the plans. The idea of a central city and how it would benefit. Broker liked the idea, suggesting that once it was built he could sell and repair gears there.“Zuka might want to think of getting a job there.” He said. “He told me in a letter about how it’s hard to find work now.” Broker looked down at the city. “He also said he’s never using his gear again. He’s afraid of the damage it causes.”“He couldn’t use it if he tried,” Scythe laughed. “The guy only has one arm!” Broker didn’t laugh along. Scythe noticed and quickly quieted down. She coughed into her arm and leaned back. “I mean, good for him. I’m sure he’s thought about it long and hard.”Broker shrugged. “I just hope Blackrock doesn’t close its borders. You know how they get. All secretive and seclusive.”“And I thought we were bad.” Scythe mumbled. “I’m sure they’ll help fund it. It would be good business for them.”“True.” Broker nodded. Scythe looked at the sky. The sun was starting to set and the sky was painting itself orange. The lights down below sparked to life. Broker hopped off the sill, retreating back into the temple for the night. He said a quick goodnight before leaving. Scythe nodded back, but kept her gaze focused on the sky. Maybe if she looked hard enough, she’d find something worth her time up there.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

The sand soon gave way to a more sure footed area. Demons were hustling around and carrying supplies to other locations. Xanwood stood tall and proud amongst the chaos on a raised ledge overlooking the cavern they had started digging. He held his wooden katana like a cane, the tip being pierced into the ground. Scythe approached cautiously, a laundered rifle was set steady on her back. Xanwood turned to look at her. He gave her a small smile.“Is your father coming?” He asked. His voice was low, and calm.“No, he has some work to do.” She stood next to the leader. Xanwood towered over her. His horns looked like wood, and Scythe was surprised the guy was still standing. Thick layers of fur coated his figure.“Ah..” Xanwood sighed. “You are his daughter, yes? I fear we have not met.”Scythe nodded. “I’ve heard of you from my brother, Broker.”The Thieves Den leader gave a small laugh. “Only good things I hope.” Scythe didn’t respond. She looked down from their ledge, and into the work site. Demons from every faction were helping out. Their physical differences helped define them all, and in a way helped them work together. She could see the Playground and Blackrock demons avoid each other however. Tensions were still there, but clearly they seemed relieved not to be fighting.“I saw the plans.” The Desert demon whispered. “I like the look.” Xanwood nodded. He looked down at his feet. Leaning up more on his gear, the faction leader let out a heavy sigh.“Thank you for coming. I would’ve sent my apprentice but he has been busy rebuilding our villages.” Xanwood smiled. He put a large, short clawed hand on Scythe’s shoulder.She bowed her head. “Of course. I have to make sure my people are being treated well.” She gave him a toothy grin. “I can send my brother over if you need, he could enhance the gears, make the work go faster and-”“No.” Xanwood retracted his hand. His posture became stiff and more closed off. “We have no need for…” He paused, eyeing Scythe. “Unnatural aids.” The cultist gave him a look. Thankfully though, they moved past the slight disagreement by switching the subject. Xanwood briefly mentioned how nice it was here, saying that deeper in the desert was unbearable for him. Scythe nodded along and mentioned how there had been a spike in heat-caused injuries back home. She said that the majority had been from new citizens, unfamiliar with the climate and more so looking for a new start. Xanwood smiled, and said Thieves' Den was also experiencing an influx of members.“Will there be meetings again?” Scythe asked.Xanwood looked down at his feet. “Unfortunately no… We as leaders have decided that meetings caused unnecessary tensions. We will govern our own regions, alone.”“I see.” Scythe looked onward at the horizon. The sun was still high in the sky, but the clouds dipped low. She shifted her gaze to the taller demon. His eyes were aged, and she could see wrinkles forming. His wooden horns had sprouts popping out. Spring must be near in Thieves’ Den.He craned his neck down to look at her, a thin line forming at his mouth. “You should get going. I’m sure the temple misses you.”Scythe nodded and thanked him for talking, and for overseeing the project. She jogged off into the sands. Looking back, she could see the old guy leaning more weight onto his gear. She winced and turned her head back forwards. The clouds moved above her. They stretched and twisted themselves with the air. Forming new shapes and figures every few seconds, Scythe admired their beauty. The way they puffed out, or sunk into themselves. She smiled. Clouds had always been scarce in the desert, but after the war there was an abundance of them. They did little to shield the scorching heat but it gave the demons something to look at.---The church was dark. The lanterns having been put out. Scythe tip-toed quietly around the pews. She climbed up onto the stage, wincing when the floorboards creaked under her weight. Scythe walked onto center stage, looking out at the rows of pews. She scanned the empty church. The leaders of Inpherno all stood proud. Axis, Xanwood, Hoolahoop, and her father. They all had a stage set for them straight from the start. She clenched her fist, glancing towards her missing arm. She would never forgive her brother for what he did. For what he caused.That night, looking out into a dark, empty, and cold church. Scythe realised a few things.One - A new era was beginning, and no matter how much they tried, the leaders of Inpherno couldn’t escape it.Two - Her traitor brother’s horns would soon have a special mount on her wall. (knowing him he would probably move to the middle ground)Three - Sythe’s stage had been set. All that was needed now was for her to secure the main role.

----- CHAPTER BREAK -----

Broker stepped out into the harsh sunlight. He quickly shot his hand up over his eye, trying to block some of the light out. The sandstone stairs clicked beneath his feet. He paused after the last one, looking up at the massive temple. Lost Temple’s streets were busy. Demons making trades, and shouting out their products bounced off the walls. Broker navigated his way, nodding at other church members and waving back at a few demons. The sun was high in the sky. Barely any clouds covered it. The warmth was comforting, as it no longer reminded him of the days he spent bent over his desk working on soldier’s gears. Finally he was free. No longer would he cart gears back and forth, no longer would his hands ache. He could finally write proper letters to Zuka, instead of the sloppy and shaky words he had onced written. It felt good to be able to write smoothly again. It was still a chore though.

A few weeks ago, Silver King had pulled him and Scythe out and into an old office. He blabbed about how they cut contact with Blackrock. How Axis had used them, and gave nothing in return. Scythe and Broker had simply looked at eachother.

So, all in all. Was Broker committing a crime against the church? Yeah. Did he care? No not that much. Silver King barely checked the mail records anyway. It was more-so Scythe’s job to check them.

Before him stood the trade building. Exports and imports were sorted and handed out here. Demons were at the front window, calling out names and ordering others inside around. It was a madhouse here, especially after the war. New citizens writing back home, and old possessions being mailed in. Broker waited patiently for his name to be called. It wasn’t often he was here, but today was a special day. Zuka had requested him to give his gear a fresh paint job. He wanted to reinvent it, saying how looking at it for too long brought bad memories back.

“Broker!” Someone called. A slip of paper waved in the air. Broker excitedly ran forward, pushing past a few others. When he reached the window he waved and smiled. The employee nodded and handed him the slip. “Big package ay? Thought you were done with those.”

“This one’s special.” Broker grinned. He said his thank yous and scurried off. The paper was thin, cheap and on it was scribbled on “Dock 3, cargo #9852”.

The docks were crowded. Lines had been formed, and Broker could sense the chaos. The time you actually got your package was at random. You could be number 77 and get your shipment before number 49. It was a game of luck and patience.Broker waited among the crowd. He listened in to stray conversations, taking mental note of anything interesting. He heard snippets of progress on the middle ground city, families having trouble, new neighbors being annoying. The works. It wasn’t anything he hadn’t heard before.

“#9852!” Someone yelled. Broker perked up and quickly maneuvered over to the pick up zone. Some hurried “excuse me”’s later and he was standing in front of a desk. The worker held a clipboard. Details about where the box had come from, and who the shipper was was printed finely on the paper. “Just sign here.” The worker set the clipboard down, and handed Broker a pen. He looked over the paper, making sure things were right. In a swift motion, his name was printed. The worker took back the clipboard and turned around. “Good luck.” The side door opened, and another worker came out pushing a dolly. On it was a large wooden box. In red, bold letters were the words “GEAR”

Broker smiled and took the dolly. “Thank you!” The workers nodded, and called out the next number. He could feel Zuka’s gear jostle around in the box. It made him cringe slightly. Broker struggled slightly pushing it up the hill. He wondered how Zuka was able to lug this cursed thing around for days on end. He figured that demons were made for their gears, but it was still something he applauded the veteran for. Finally the ground evened out underneath his feet. He could see the ground entrance. It was a small little door, no bigger than an average demon. The door was wood with a brass eye knocker in the middle. Broker wheeled the crate up to it. He knocked three times. The door clicked open, and Scythe peered out at him. She opened the door some more. Broker muttered a thank you and quickly pushed the gear in. Scythe walked quietly behind him. Her heels making familiar clicks on the stone floor. Just down the hall was his office. “Thanks again.” Broker said.

“Anytime.” Scythe nodded. She rolled her sleeve up to reveal a new watch. Broker guessed it was stolen from a harvest. Her good eye narrowed in on the time, and she let out a sigh. “I have to go.”

Her brother nodded and smiled. “Have fun.”

“I’ll try.” Scythe walked off. Broker waited a few moments before opening his office door. The lamps had long gone out. And there was dust on everything. Broker set the box down, and cracked it open. Packing fluff flew out, underneath sat the gear itself. It was duller now. He frowned slightly. Broker hovered his hands over the gun. Last time he had seen it, it was covered in blood. Now, it maintained a matte finish and seemed to have been cleaned recently. He carefully took the gear out of the box. Cradling it like a spawnling, Broker inched over to his desk. He put the weapon down and began to work. It was a basic maintenance job, nothing more nothing less. He took a gander at the trigger, making sure the safety was on before looking closer. He knew Zuka wouldn’t use it ever again, but you never know.

The door slammed open. Broker jumped, and his screwdriver fell to the ground. Zuka’s gear shook on the table slightly, and Broker quickly steadied it. The cultist whipped his head around, and his heart stopped.

In the doorway loomed his father. Horns nearly touching the frame. Broker quickly grabbed a spare towel, throwing it over the gun. He could feel himself shake as Silver King’s footsteps drew near.

“Broker.” A skinny hand abruptly touched his shoulder. “That your sister’s?” His father looked over and at the concealed gear.

“Y-yeah! Yeah, it’s her rifle. Just needed a few adjustments!” Broker smiled.

Silver King hummed. “That’s funny,” The older demon bent down to match Broker’s eye level. “Because I could’ve sworn I saw her leave with it a few minutes ago.”

“Oh!” Broker’s hands began to shake. “This is a new one! I, uh, just picked it up!” Broker looked away. “See the box-”

Silver King slammed his hands on the work table. “The box says

gear

.” He inched closer. “Care to explain why you have a gear here? One that isn’t from our own church? One that needed to be

mailed

?”

Broker swallowed hard. He looked at his father, then at the towel. How the fuck had he found out? How the

FUCK

did he know? Had someone sold him out? Or was this just the worst coincidence ever? Silver King grabbed the towel. Broker watched hopelessly as his father tore it off. Zuka’s gear shined when exposed to the new light. His heart dropped, and he let his hands fall to his sides.

“This looks familiar.” Silver King narrowed his eye. He pushed Broker aside trying to get a better look at the gear. A small sliver of hope shined in front of Broker. Maybe Silver King had forgotten what Zuka’s gear looked like. His old age and the distance between seeing the veteran and now was Broker’s last chance. He watched anxiously. The silence was deafening. Broker’s eye trailed down to the static gear. He wanted to cry. He loved Zuka, and his gear. He remembered being so excited to attend those meetings. To see the Blackrock soldier’s shiny and well kept gear was something he took for granted.

Silver King stood up straight again. His posture stiff. “Of course I remember this gear.” He slowly turned to look at Broker. His pupil slitted, and mouth a thin line. “That Blackrock soldier you were so attached to.” He stepped toward Broker. “You know what this is right?”

Broker stayed silent. He tilted his head down.

“LOOK AT ME.” Silver King grabbed his son’s face harshly. Angling it upwards. “You know what this is. Or has your skull grown thicker?” He sneered. Silver King tightened his grip. “Treason.” He looked away. “Treason, committed by my own son.” The church leader let go of Broker’s face. “How do you think this makes me feel?” Silver King said. “I raised you, I gave you food, I let you go to those meetings. Broker I gave you everything you have. A home, a family, status!” He sobbed out the last word. “And this is how you repay me? By committing treason? By betraying your family?” Broker began to feel tears roll down his cheek. But Silver King continued. “You remind me of someone.”

‘No.’ Broker thought. His eye widened, and his body froze.

“Are you going to run away too? Abandon me and your sister?” Silver King spat.

“No- I wouldn’t- You know I wouldn’t!” Broker pleaded. He clasped his hands together. “I hate Katana just as much as you do! Father,

please

, you have to forgive me for this. I swear, it was just a one time thing. I was getting extra pay, I was doing it for the church! I-”

“ENOUGH.” Silver King yelled. “Your pleas do not move me. You knew what you did was wrong. Now you have to pay.”

There was an uneasy silence. Silver King grabbed Broker’s arm, and started to drag him out of the workshop. “You’re lucky Scythe is gone. She’s the only one that would save your pathetic ass.” Broker remained silent. The halls winded around him. The lanterns grew darker and the walls began to close in. Broker knew where he was. The dungeon was a place he had only seen a few times. Traitors to the church were sentenced to reside down here, locked away from society. That was all. Broker felt relieved. Silver King would simply lock him up and forget about him. But Scythe would come and save him. She’d break the door and the bars for him.

They arrived at an iron door. Silver King fiddled around with the knob before the door creaked open. It was a horrid sound. Broker was forced to follow, being let go of for a second so Silver King could close the door. “Keep following.” His father pushed past him and walked on. Broker followed suit. They arrived at an empty room. A steel table bolted into the ground was placed in the middle. Nothing else was in the room. Except for maybe some dried blood. Broker stepped in. Silver King remained in the doorway. “Stay put now. I’ll be back. I need to make sure everything is set up. This is very impromptu, afterall.” And he was gone. Broker was left alone in a dark, cold room. He looked down at the blood. He wondered who had suffered here before him. He knew his father was cruel. But he had always assumed it was for the greater good. But seeing how Katana turned out, a part of him was scared. The cultist sat down. He let his hand rest on the blood. It was sorta gross, but now it was nothing but a bad memory.

Hours passed before Silver King returned. Broker was pulled up, and dragged around again. When they exited the dungeon, that’s when his nerves started to spike. Would he get a whole trial? Try to defend himself to a biased judge? What type of mockery was this? Eventually They stopped. Broker’s heart dropped. They were standing at the stage door. He wasn’t going to get a chance to defend himself.

Silver King let go, and opened the door. Broker heard the cheers of the church. The whistles and shouts. Afterall, it was a relief watching those who had wronged the church receive justice. The moment he stepped through the door and his identity was revealed to the crowd it went quiet with hushed murmurs and whispers of confusion and outrage. A servant came up behind him, and placed a hand on his shoulder. A veil covered their eyes, identity was not needed for them. They nudged him closer to the center.

“Ah! There he is!” Silver King outstretched his arms to welcome Broker. The crowd shifted uneasily. Their eyes all watching and waiting. Silver King waved the servant off, and they returned rather quickly. A large axe was in their hands. It had Overseer’s eyes etched into the blade, and the handle was adorned with symbols and verses of their literature.

Broker watched in fear as the axe was handed off. The servant patted his shoulder, a small gesture of sympathy. He saw his father’s mouth start to move. Spewing words that Broker didn’t want to hear. He looked into the crowd. Some familiar faces, but he couldn’t attach any names.

Suddenly, Silver King’s hand was on his shoulder. Pressure was applied. Broker kneeled down and bowed his head. He heard his father’s heels click behind him. There was a deathly silence. No member spoke, not even a hushed whisper.

Broker closed his eye, and took a deep breath.

The axe swung.