THE NOVEL

The Warrior of Flame:

Fluke of Fire

A Beginning

A small thud echoed through the hall as a thin, lightly built individual fell from a hole. The hole had light pushing down past it into the dark hallway, lighting up a small three foot circular area. The light was bright enough to make just the outline of the persons Uniform known. The ladder, that once was there to help one come down, lay upon the ground. The ladder was ripped into a twisted, almost unconceivable, wreck upon the ground. The hallway was not very large, maybe just large enough to let two people stand shoulder to should in without bumping into something. The area.. seemed to be dark.. evil.. eerie... strange.

As the person landed they knelt lightly. One knee pressed into the grating below them. There hand seemed to be touching a long black flashlight. Silently they lifted it.. just a bit and pressed a button. The light, Brighter then the ones coming from above, shined down upon there boot. The black boot shining just a diminutive bit as to show how well polished it was. The light moved with the persons hand to look down the hall. Dried blood littered against the wall. That sight seemed to simply add to the evilness that resonated within the hall.

The person looked up. The voice pushing through a small section filled with minute holes where the mouth should have been. The voice was muffled but was able to be heard. “Jackson, Davids With me. Ladini, Hindman keep watch on this floor. Nothing gets past you" Two more heads also masked nodded lightly. Two others soon nodded and looked away, moving from sight. The voice was light, gentle, slightly higher pitch than that of a males. It was a woman’s. The woman’s eyes where unseen but she did look slowly away from them. Stepping forward away from them.. moving out of the light. Her flashlight shining on the walls. Watching as the blood grew a bit darker.

The light thuds of her partners did not alarm her. She did look back and wave her hand slightly to have them come closer. Davids, the first to land, landed with one knee on the grated ground. A gun in his hand. Much like the modern M-16 A2. His trigger finger just above the trigger. Not wanting to let any un-aimed shots off. Moving forward Jackson soon followed. Landing lightly on the ground behind him. He too carried much of the same type of gun. A .45 was at his side. Soon they where all away from the small light that was there.

As they moved further inward the blood became a bit darker. Normally it could be said that the blood became a bit thicker. Soon they came upon a circular opening. entering silently the light moved quickly to what should have been the door in that hole. Four long streaks engraved into the door was the first thing someone would notice

"Holy mother of God!" Jacksons voice, a deep baritone, rung out as he took note of the devastating marks. "What kind of monster thing did that shit?!?"

"Oh shut up!" exclaimed Davids. "I don't want to hear anything about your thought up monsters again. There just tails said by people who are either insane or in extreme need of attention. Most likely the marks where made by some desert freak!" Davids spoke in his normal harsh and cynical tone. Davids voice was a bit higher that Jacksons.

"Oh both of you shut the hell up” The woman, obviously the commander, spoke in the commanding voice that most people in higher rank held. "We need to find out who or what did this shit to this place. As well as that we need to collect as much data as possible then get our butts out." Even though her face was not seen they two both knew the look she gave them. It caused chills to run down there spine.

Soon after she turned and was the first to walk up to the door. Taking note of a small piece that did not seem to be a bullet or anything of the sort. She silently pulled out a small container. Using a small metallic stick, she pulled it out and into the container. As she covered it she placed it into her pocket.. and looked over her shoulder to the others. Silently she turned. As she came back to them the light on the flashlight began to flicker lightly.

Hitting it lightly she cussed as she pressed the button to shut it off. The power was drained from using it to explore the upper 5 floors. Silently she looked to where she remembered her company to be. "Turn on your helmet light. Would be easier that way anyway to find something."

"Alright." The both of them replied almost in the exact same moment. Soon two lights flashed on Jackson's helm. The lights flashing upon t he commander lightly. Soon Davids own lights also turned on. As the commander took note of this she moved her hand up to the upper right of her own help. Pressing a small button just below two small round sections in her helm, the fronts swirled open. Spinning open to show two lights, that in turn soon clicked on themselves.

"Alright Fan out and search for anything that seems to be of use. If you find something important let everyone know." Her voice spoke out lightly. Once again in that solid commanding voice. The two others nodded lightly and turned. There lights landing upon different sections of the room before they moved off. The commander turning to the middle and walking forward.

Jacksons lights fell upon what used to be a comfortable leather covered chair near what seemed to be a science center. The keypad, littered with finger prints and the occasional blood spot from who knows where, made it rather hard to tell. So Jackson walked up to it lightly. As he came closer his light caught something silver. The reflection catching his eye as it shined against the wall. As he came closer to it he leaned down. His gloved hand running over it lightly. The blood covered object began to take form. It seemed to be a type of disk.

As he wiped a bit more away he was able to pull under the edge. As it came free he looked it over lightly. His gloved hand once again wiping away a bit more blood. The rippled blood seemed to easily fall away untill he came near the bottom. it seemed to be a bit more solid. As he looked it over he noticed that the disk was slightly warped at the bottom. Something had caused enough heat to burn the blood into the disk. Jackson shook his head slightly and tossed it into the chair once again.

Davids, navigating himself around a desk and a chair, found himself kneeling down near a small panel. A bit of the top was opened. As he looked a bit closer he took note that it was about half open. Something was on the inside. He could not quite make out what it was. Though he couldn’t he grasped the end that was slightly open and pulled lightly. As it did not come any looser he grumbled slightly. Placing his hands on it again he pulled a bit harder and then it gave free.

As it did he fell back against the ground. as he looked up his lights caught sight of what was inside. Roaches. Lots and lots of roaches. How they got there was anyone's guess. He did not really care himself and leaned forward. Knocking a few of the roaches away he jumped back slightly. Bones hung lightly upon a chord. The chord was obviously not attached to where it was supposed to be. Davids cringed slightly and shook his head before he grasped the chord and plugged it back in.

Standing he looked over his shoulder to the others. Speaking loud enough they both could hear him. “I found the power chord to turn on the entire building. Soon we should be able to see better. " The other two glanced back at Davids just as the lights began to click back on. The light flash caused them all to look up before silently the lights returned.

The room was large. filled with six chairs. Each much like the one that Jackson had found. Though one carried four large marks in it. Much like the ones in the door. Just next to it in the center of the room was what seemed to be a small island of equipment. A large glass screen buzzed lightly with stated atop of it. Panels littered the area about it many of the lights now working. The keypads lit lightly as to show the power was fully regenerated.

The glass screen continued to cackle and screech lightly. The gray static swayed around mixed with white streaks. Just before the blood covered ripped chair, under the blood splattered screen, A small disk drive opened up slowly. A disk on the inside seemed to be rather new still.

The commander looked to the disk. The lights on her helm clicking off. The lights being covered in the same way that it had opened. Silently she leaned down and picked up the disk. Careful not to touch the silver bottom. Looking to the others her voice echoed out thought he holes in t he mask. "Hey! Get over here! I found a disk. May be worth taking a look at."

The others soon came to her side. There lights also having now been shut off. There eyes, though unseen, watched the disk as she let it once again into the holder. Letting it slide back into the same place it had come from. Leaning down and pressing a few buttons. Soon the screen, once crackling, became silent. The screen was now clear. As the commander pressed another button the screen became black.

A young man appeared. His helmet no longer on. The uniform much like there own. The material seemed to have a rough look to it. Much like leather. A slight bit thicker then normal cloth and padded slightly under it. The patch on the left arm showed that he was from the same organization. The patch looked like a triangle. surrounded by a circle filled with white letters. And around all this was a red pentagon.

The white letters inside of the circle where in three areas. Right at the points of the triangle. The letters where L.E.C. (Lexteral Estex Corporation). The company had become rather large in military operations. The clothing came from the L.E.C but the people within that issued clothing where from the United States Marines. .

The man in the screen looked to be stunned slightly. His hair, Red and shining slightly, was damp and sticking to his forehead due to sweat. His eyes showed fear. His voice a gentle tenor range, spoke quickly. His voice cracked silently in what seemed to be fear.

"I hope I got this out before I die. This is Capitan Andrew J. Latson. My building was attacked by.. something. This thing came from the ground. From the sector three floors down used to test the ground. It came from nowhere. It started to kill everyone. Oh god! I am the only one left. Everyone else is dead. I can't explain this thing. It is not an animal. Its not a man. Its not even a beast. It just eats. It cares little for anything but its own stomach. It will come after me soon.

"I can hear it coming down the hall searching for me. Smelling me out" The sound could be heard the monitor. It was like a long deep inhale of air and then suddenly a long deep huff. "Please don't think I am making it up. I don't know what we did to anger something. Someone. But whatever the hell we did it wants us dead.

"If you came to search for me be very careful. The monster has made its home two floors below this one. Please! If I am dead take this disk. Let others know what’s going to happen. We need to be ready for them." The mans head snapped quickly around as a loud thud pulled his attention away from speaking. "Shit! Its here. Watch! I want you all to see it. I want to give you more then my word. And I want you to see this... this... Monster!"

As he spoke another loud thud echoed past the speakers near the screen. The watchers stared intently, almost in disbelief at the screen. The visions lightly reflecting on the black guards protecting there face. The man on the screen quickly moved the angle of the recorder to watch the door. The man moved quickly past the screen to the left. Toward where Davids had found the loose chord.

After a few seconds they could notice the door slowly ripping open. The bolts and such that held it to the wall began to rip. Soon the door was pushed aside. A large claw holding the very end of it. slamming it against the wall with a large thud. The view of the claw was horrific. Blood lingered on its claws from the dead before. Soon the claw disappeared into the shadows of the dark hallway once more.

Soon a head appeared. It seemed to be much like a dogs. Only a white mane of hair swayed on the back of its head. Soon the head disappeared as it leaped quickly out from the hole. Its body was to quick to notice. Then the power was gone. the lights out. But , being placed on reserve power, the recording continued. A loud scream echoed as the man seemed to be thrown back into the chair.

His hand was missing. Blood splashing against the screen. His chest cut. The uniform seeming to be so easily ripped by the creature. Soon the claw, covered in purple fur, grasped the man. The claws ripped into the chair and then it was gone. What seemed to be like a tail of a lizard or a dragon was seen before it disappeared once again.

As the recording stopped soon after, the power having fully gone, the screen once again began to cackle and shake with the gray ad white lines. The commander lightly clicked off the screen before turning. A low click was heard. It sounded like metal against metal. Slowly each one of them turned. There eyes wide. There bodies leaning back against the glass in fear. Davids, on the left of the commander, slowly moved to the left. His hand pulling his weapon up to face the creature.

The red eyes that shined silently watched them. Carefully shifting between the two directly in front of it and Davids. Davids slowly moved back into a corner lightly. Soon the eyes locked upon the two before the creature. The Commander suddenly grabbed Jackson and pulled him down. As there bodies moved the creature lunged forward with great speed. As the two ducked the glass above them shattered. The creature slamming with its side into it. The glass fell silently all around the two as they knelt down.

Quickly the Commander grabbed Jackson and took off. The creature soon looked to Davids as it noticed the other two running. As Jackson and the commander ran and came to the level just above a scream echoed through the building. Davids was gone. The growl that followed caused Jackson and the commander to move quickly. Jackson looking behind him, watching carefully.

Soon they came up the next level, then the next. After a few seconds they ran outside. Jackson turning and firing a few shots into the hole. The creature was quick and was easily gaining on them. The sight of it in the distance caused the commander to quickly pull out a disk. She had managed to get it before the monster attacked. Sliding it into Jackson's hand she took the weapon from him and spoke in a quick voice.

"Get you butt out of here."

"But Ma'am" Jackson protested

“That’s an order!" She quickly cut him off.

"Fine!" He quickly grabbed the disk and moved across the sand. The firing appearing behind him caused him to flinch. He could hear the creatures roar. It caused a shiver to run across his back as she fought it. Shooting it with little effect. Soon he hopped into the armor plated vehicle. Much like a modern military personal carrier. The side holding the same logo as there sleeve and began to drive off.

As he got down the road he could hear her scream. then he roar soon following. It caused him to hang his head lightly. The helmet that so long now had stayed firmly to his body slipped from its position and fell to his lap with a gentle thud. He was a handsome man with the light brown hair that rested on his head swaying gently in the breeze that passed. He looked up with those vivid green eyes that now held such pain. Then his fist came back and slammed against the wheel in front of him. Cussing loudly as he knew he was the only one out of there. Silently he drove off. There was nothing he could do but get back. Get back and pray that they would listen to him.

A Strange Hero

A man stalked toward the large doors. The trees that surrounded him seemed to darken slightly with each small step he took. The grass under his feet crumpled slightly with each movement. A slow sigh passed his lips as he came further and further into sight of the gates. A relatively sizeable bag hung over his shoulder swaying too and fro. A large red area near the bottom of the bag dripped a red liquid to the ground as he walked. A large sword, segmented into three parts, moved in sequential motion with his legs and hip, a shotgun tightly to his right. The tan pants held onto the two weapons with an iron grip. His black boots forced the small bit of sand from the well-beaten path to spread away from him with each step. Metallic plates strapped to his shins and the tops of his boots glistened as the sun struck them. His pale brown shirt carried a strange design over his chest. Small golden objects peeked out from their little hiding spaces one across from the other. Moving along from and up from his hip to his shoulder in a strange X design the items moved with him. On his let shoulder three layers of metal plates, held by a strap to the shirt, hung just bit above his true shoulder level. The minute spaces between each plate seemed to hold something unable to be seen clearly with human eyes.

as he came closer to the doors two men, both carrying weapons much like the modern M 16 spotted him. They did not need to ask for his name or tell him to stop as they had others. They had heard of his name many times and seen him come and go as he pleased for missions by the leader. As they moved to the side, they began to push what seemed to be a large gear. As they would reach the wall with one area they would move back two or three and move once again to press it into the wall. With the movements of the large wooden gears the doors slowly slid open. The dust moved away as they scraped just across the ground’s non-giving surface.

Soon his shoulders passed the large doors, which in return began to close once again behind him, and he came to a halt. His hazel eyes glanced around as he watched the people coming and going. Each person seemed to have a little errands and plans to accomplish during the days. Children played off to his right. Teachers carefully watched each one of their movements. Their life was simple and always ran on the same principle. Such a life was their choice and theirs alone. All he could do was stand to the side and watch.

He shook his head as he watched each person. The soft laughter filled the air along with the light murmurs that passed through the air. He let a small sigh pass his lips as he looked to the Market Street. It was packed as he always noticed it to be. Women and daughters walked side-by-side glancing at all the wears to be offered. Deciding that he should stock up he started to head for the street.

The sound of boots clunking on the ground soon caught his attention. His eyes swiftly moved to his left where the main building stood. The long road had missed his sight, as it always seemed to do. He raised an eyebrow slightly as men where running to him. Swords at their sides sheathed and rifles slung across their back. He turned to face them as they came closer.

“Ansel! I have come with a message from the leader Mr. Jackson.” As they came to a quick stop their breaths echoed the distance that they had run. An eyebrow slowly perked on his brow as they spoke of Jackson.

“Yes. Spit it out. I do not have all day to wait for what he wants you to tell me.” He crossed his arms as he leaned more onto his right leg. Waiting for there reply to him.

“He says that as soon as you possibly can to come to the main building. He has a bit more business to discuss with you. As well as discussing your payment for the head that you carry.” He spoke between deep quick breaths. The man was slightly hunched over as he looked up to Ansel with a slight bit of exhaustion.

“Very well. Tell him I will meet with him once I have re-stocked some food and drink for later.” He silently glanced to the Market Street then once again to the man hunched before him. They simply stood as tall as they possibly could and nodded. Turning they ran back over the small hill toward the large main building in the distance.

With that small conversation Ansel looked to the street to notice that a large group had gathered around some kind of action. As he moved closer he could hear the soft whisperings from the people closer to the back.

“She stole his bread.”

“I heard she drew a knife on him.”

“Is she the one that has been attacking people around here?”

“I heard it was a beast not some small woman.” The voices spoke back and forth as they watched. Ansel soon found himself pushing against person after person trying to find his way into the center of the gathering. As he found his way in he pushed a man to the side. Two people stood in the middle. A man looked at a young woman.

The young ladies face, covered by long grimy brown hair, was hidden from his view. Her clothing was slightly ripped here and there showing off her very toned body. With the view of her ribs able to be seen through one cut it was obvious that she was starving for food. Her body hunched low as she held a large loaf of bread to her side. The other hand extended as if she was ready to defend herself.

The man suddenly lunged forward. His larger frame soon found its way face first into the harder ground. A loud laugh suddenly escaped Ansel’s lips as he moved a hand to his stomach and leaned over. He shook his head, as he laughed harder then he had for a long time. As the man stood and wiped a bit of blood from his lip he looked to Ansel and cussed under his breath.

“What’s so funny their little man?”

“Oh just the fact that you just went face first into the ground by a little girl.” The girl quickly looked at him and turned running away through the now stunned crowd. The man cussed again as he looked directly and fiercely at Ansel.

“You little runt. You’re going to pay for your words.” That was when he noticed the girl running way over the crowd’s head and cussed again under his breath. “And you will also pay for the bread that little bitch took from me. If not with money then with my fists.” The man quickly added before looking back to Ansel.

“You’re fists huh?” He was slowly forward as he stopped about two feet from the man's own face. As the man hunched down and was about to reply the cool feeling of the barrels of Ansel’s shotgun where pressed under his skin. “Click… your dead. You never EVER try and pick a fight with a man who has a gun or with a man that little care if he kills you or not. Unluckily, for you, you found me. NOW! I suggest that you cool off and go back to selling your bread. Here is the amount for the bread as well as a bit extra. Now don’t waist it on beer and women in one night there.” Ansel slowly pulled a piece of gold from his pocket and let it flip ideally through the air and into the man's hand.

As he pulled the shotgun slowly away from his face he placed it back to his side and strapped it on. Turning and chuckling slightly as the man picked it up from the ground. Ansel decided he would come back after meeting with Jackson and get his supplies then.
_____

As he walked down the long bricked highway the sun slowly began to set in the distance. The shadows of the many buildings slowly extended out across the street. As he came to the end the large hustle and bustle of the town had calmed down greatly and people began to walk back into their homes. Ansel stood now before the main building. The additions to it were obvious. The old courthouse now carried the flag of the town on both sides.

A large star circled by a single white line. The green background let the white star and line seem to float on its surface. As he passed through the doors he glanced around the always-busy building. People walking around filing laws and papers. Books, though old, where still preserved to the best of their ability and placed on the makeshift library on the first floor. As he came in a young lady looked to him and smiled briefly.

“Ansel, come. Mr. Jackson is waiting for you on the top floor.” She spoke with a light airy voice, as she stood tall and moved toward the stairs. As he caught up to her they had reached the third and final floor. She motioned to the door as she waited for him to go forward.

In a few seconds he had entered the room. A chair rested clear at the other end of the room. A large desk resting before the man that sat in that chair. Even from the distance between Ansel and the man Ansel could make out the vivid green eyes that rested on him. The large red carpet extended from where Ansel stood clear to Jackson’s feet. On the left a small circular disk spun slightly in a case. Weapons covered in the blood of monsters hung across the left wall. Wonderful pictures hung on the wall to the right. These pictures where of wonderful and beautiful landscapes. A young woman sitting tall and elegant caught his eye. He believed they had called it the Mona Lisa back before the world was pulled apart by the now roaming monsters. These two sides where such a contrast to one another.

Beauty rested on the side that many used. Hate and violence rested to the side that few used. In front of the desk two chairs sat. For a reason that maybe only Jackson knew one chair rested on either side of the center of him. Jackson walked slowly up the center of the room. Stopping just short of his desk his sac landing on Jackson’s desk. The top folded back to reveal a dog like face with a white mane. As Jackson saw it he smiled slightly and let a soft voice pass his lips. “So the darned thing survived the commander. I am impressed.”

“500 pieces of gold. That is what you promised me for the head of this creature. Hand it over now and we will talk business on other things.” Ansel’s voice moved with little emotion and spoke as though he had done this many times. As a sack of money slid across the desk he grabbed it up and looked at the coins. Nodding slightly he placed it on his left hip.

“Now for business Ansel, but first off. Please take a seat.” Jackson moved his hand in a slow motion to offer the two seats for him. Ansel slowly shook his head as he held his ground in the center.

“No thank you. I prefer to stand.”

“As you wish.” Jackson let a slow shrug pass his obviously aging shoulders. He slowly pulled a folder from some corner of the desk and slid it slowly to Ansel. As Ansel took up the folder he glanced ideally through it. Letting an eyebrow slowly rise as he looked up and spoke lightly.

“A babysitting job now? Oh great! Now I am becoming your own personal babysitter haven’t I?” He shook his head slightly as Jackson laughed. He slowly slid another folder to Ansel who quickly took it up. As Ansel glanced through the second folder he looked slowly back to Jackson. A slightly questioning eyebrow raised on his forehead.

I want you to take Lane to the town of Centauron where she can speak with their leader. There is much going on in that area and I would like to know what it is exactly. I will pay handsomely for your protecting her. If she makes it there and back safe you will receive at least five times the amount you got for the head of this beast.” He spoke as though he had practiced it many times. His eyes did not show any sign of emotion and actually caught Ansel off his guard.

Hmm five times the amount you say? I will do as you ask but only on one condition. You must pay me a third now, a third for getting her to Centauron, and a third once I get back.” He silently moved his hand a bit lower letting it rest on the weapons at his side. He had done such things many times before. Though his policy for the job was not widely accepted and he was usually attacked.

Once again though Jackson surprised Ansel as he tossed a larger coin pouch onto the table. He did not speak but simply nodded and looked to the door that was at the other end of the room. Ansel though stunned took up the gold and turned. He knew the time he was to pick the lady up and would be there. Though for today he would sleep.
_____

As the light of the morning moved across Ansel’s face he let out a small growl. He had not really slept to well. That same nightmare pulling at him from deep within himself. His covers where tossed here and there from his tossing and turning during the night. As he sat up a sudden rush of pain caused a slightly louder grunt to cross his lips. Soon a cuss followed as he touched the area and found a small bit of blood.

The banister near his head was dabbed in one corner with blood. He figured that during his sleep he had rolled to fiercely and wound up cutting himself on the metal corner. Gaining his balance slowly he put his feet to the floor. His eyes began to focus on the blurry world around him. As things became clear he stood.

Finally as he found himself dressed and showered he stood outside of the inn. He glanced around ideally as people passed by and whispered amongst them. He sighed lightly as he looked around slowly. He searched for that one street that would take him to where he was to meet. Finding it he smiled lightly to himself and started off. Passing house and home as he came across the large hotel.

The pillars on each side seemed to mimic one of a castle of old. The pointed tops flew with small flags that flapped in the calm breeze. The bricks where lain down in a small zigzag pattern for both stability and an added look of style. The main entrance was a large piece of wood that seemed to resemble the drawbridges of old times. As one looked to it they could feel as though it was going to fall right on top of their head. As he watched the large doors he took note of the small space between the middle. Obviously now the large wall of wood was nothing more then a door.

As he neared he took careful consideration of the several guards posted at the doors and let a small grumble pass his lips. He did not need to be intelligent to know that this was the place. With how much security was posted around the hotel one with the intellect of a monkey would have been able to see that. Walking toward the doors the guards looked at him with a glare before realizing who it was and standing once again tall

“Sir. Mr. Jackson and the lady are inside for you.” The guard on the right said as he looked to Ansel.

“Thank you sir but one with any intelligence would have been able to tell you that.” Ansel expressed his agitation at the obviousness of where Jackson was keeping the lady. He quickly pushed his way into the door and glanced around the large building’s interior. A slow brow perked in question to the surroundings.

A long red carpet dawned across the floor straight ahead to what was the entrance desk. Soft music played over the obviously old and worn out speaker system though it still seemed to sooth the soul in one way or another. The women and men moving around back and forth did not seem to bother someone as they entered the large hall. Tall pillars seemed to dawn up the walls to support what must have been rather heavy roof.

When he finally reached the reception desk he came to a sudden stop. As the metal of his boots came together with a small click the man standing there suddenly looked up. A look of sudden surprise crossed the man's features as he quickly pointed to his right. As Ansel looked there he noticed the old man Mr. Jackson with a young and beautiful young lady.

The woman’s back was facing but one could just imagine the beauty of the face she had. Her long brown hair hung down just below her shoulders where her shirt hung loosely. The white shirt was dense enough that one could not see though it but the back was lowered just right that he could notice the soft contours of her shoulders. His eyes moved slowly over for just a second before he caught his wits once more and walked solemnly over to her.

“Greetings Mr. Jackson. You know with all of this security one could easily tell that you and someone important was here.” Ansel said with a slight bit of agitation apparent on his voice. As Jackson noticed him and heard his words a slow laugh passed his lips before he managed to push a few words free.

“Ah! Ansel! You may be right about the security but I felt it was needed in one way or another. Oh and by the way… I would like to introduce you to the young lady you will be escorting to Centauron. Lane this is your escort Ansel. Ansel, This is Lane.” Jackson motioned to the young lady standing next to him who turned slowly to face Ansel. Her face was remarkably similar to one he had met before. For some reason he could not exactly pinpoint the look. Maybe she was a relative of someone he had met here not to long ago or something. Though she was beautiful. Her eyes where the most beautiful. They seemed to shimmer like a hazel gem. Her skin was a soft tan and seemed it would be soft to the tough. Her head tilted slightly to the side as she looked to him and nodded slowly in a soft greeting.

“Greetings to you Ansel. I am sure that you will be able to protect me well enough.” Lane’s voice moved to his ears. Ansel seemed almost to become lost in the voice before he quickly gained his wits. It just felt slightly unnatural at the feeling of attraction that he had to her from the first time meeting her. A slow shiver ran up his spine, as he felt suddenly cold. Something was the matter but whatever it was, he could not put his finger on it just yet.

He thought silently on what she could be. Some spell? Some sort of dangerous enchantress that was in that place ready to attack him? He just could not tell, at the moment. He sighed silently to himself before he nodded lightly once again to her before he turned slightly and spoke.

“Yes… I am certain that I will be able to. Now shall we please go and get you to Centauron? I am certain that their leader wishes to speak to you as soon as possible. Also don’t forget that the journey is long and hard. So I suggest that you dress “down” some and keep your dress saved for when you get there.”

Lane seemed to understand and politely excused herself to go change in one of her rooms. In the unsettling silence that followed Ansel silently crossed his arms and leaned against one of the large walls. Mr. Jackson silently paced in the same spot several times as though he was expecting her to come any second. Soon as the sound of soft footsteps where heard Lane came back into view. As she did a slow eyebrow raised from both Mr. Jackson and Ansel.

She wore a tight fitting pair of black pants. Her top was neatly tucked into the waist of her pants and showed off a bit more of the curves that she so obviously had then the dress did. Slowly she glanced to the both of them and smiled brightly before speaking in a slightly cheery tone. “I’m ready. Shall we go Ansel? I am looking forward to traveling across the lands to see Centauron”

Ansel nodded with a small movement of his head before he turned and started slowly out of the large doors and toward the gates. Lane quickly caught up to his side carrying a small bag over her shoulder that must of contained many of the items that she was most likely to need on the long journey. As they came to the gates and passed them he could not help but look slowly over his shoulder. He did not know what it was but something just felt… wrong.

The Forest

As they left the town and walked slowly through the streets he sighed softly. Something was bothering him when they just left. Something there did not feel right. He shook his head and let it pass behind him along with the town. He led the way through the trees and the path. Showing Lane where not to step and what to step on so that she could have a better balance. With each passing step he moved deeper and deeper into the wood that seemed too ominous to him. He glanced around ideally in search of monsters or animals that he could catch for the evening meal but the forest was surprisingly empty.

He could not hear a bird chirp in the distance or the smallest crack of a twig near by. He glanced over his shoulder to look to Jane. He noticed that she was all right and for some reason was also glancing around in much the same manner that he was. He looked forward once more and saw a small opening in the trees. The light that was so abandoned where they now stood shined with great force in what appeared to be a clearing. As they passed through the slightly opened passage into the field he glanced around.

A small road ran through the middle that seemed to be a long since dried up stream. The hill just beyond rose in a slow upward tilt that was easily climbed by all men. As the hill curved down on the left and on the right it seemed t form a sort of plateau. On the left the crevice moved slowly up between two larger hills directly behind it. It was getting into the late afternoon and a heavy mist began to form. The mist seemed too dangerous. It seemed to crawl silently on many legs searching for some helpless creature. Swaying slowly back and forth as though it had its own mind.

Ansel just stood there for a second as he kept a silent and close watch on the fog. He silently shudders as thoughts came to him. Thoughts of the past slowly running through his very essence. He kept his eyes on the fog for just a second more before it suddenly became red. The red was deep thick and running as though it where blood. Soon scream echoed through his entire body as he retorted back and nearly fell back to the ground.

Jane during the entire time wondered why Ansel watched so intently the fog before him. And then as Ansel retorted and nearly fell back to the ground Jane moved quickly to try and catch him. She had no need to move for Ansel managed to catch herself and keep her form falling back but he let out a soft gentle cuss before he looked to her.

“Jane. Lets set camp here for the night. The night’s fog will be too dense and dangerous for us to be able to continue far. Did you bring a tent or something to sleep inside of?” Jane silently shook her head and watched. Ansel grumbled just a bit before he continued. “I see. Well you can sleep in my tent. It is large enough for two. “You go and gather some wood from the plains about us. I will set up camp.”

She nearly opened her mouth and began to complain. He could tell quickly from the first time that they met what she would be like. Before she had any time to reply and say something Ansel quickly spoke. “Or do you wish to sit out here and freeze with no food? You obviously do not know how to set up a tent. I am willing to bet that you are never really even out that often. Now get the wood or freeze and starve till morning. Either way does not really bother me at all.”

With a small huff, she grumbled and walked off slightly into the distance. Close enough she could be seen but far enough she could gather nice size pieces of wood. As she eventually came back the tent was ready and a small circle of rocks now lined the area just past the entrance to the tent. The ground between the rocks was dug up and the grass that once was there tossed ideally to the sides.

Soon Ansel came from within the tent and motioned for her to toss the sticks in the circle. When she finally tossed them in he pulled out a small shell from his X formation on his chest and used a knife to slowly peel the plastic end off. Placing a piece of bark on top of it he slowly lay the gunpowder across it. Lighting it with a small lighter the gunpowder started. As it moved quickly down the stick flames shot up. Soon the stick was on fire and under the rest. His eyes watched as the fire slowly progressed from one dry stick to the next.

He knelt silently on a log he had found and dragged in for them to sit on. His eyes upon the fire that lay before him as he watched. His eyes seemed to be entranced on the dancing embers. He seemed to be fixated on whatever thoughts such things gave him. Jane sat silently beside him eating on a small piece of some meat he had given to her. He simply sat and watched.

The time that passed between them as he cooked the food he had. It was strange to sit and be so quiet with the two of them sitting there. The soft crackling and dancing of the flames the only noise this night. They ate in silence and the tension that was already in the air just became worse with each passing second as the uncomfortable feelings each had at that moment just became stronger and stronger. It soon came to the point that Ansel could not quite take it any more and he stood looking down to her. “I am going to bed Jane. There is a place in the tent for you if you wish to sleep there. If not just grab your sleeping bag.”

“Alright. Thank you Ansel. Have a good nights rest.” Jane replied quickly and smiled to him. As he passed through the opening into the tent Jane stood and stretched her leg before she turned and walked off slowly into the forest with a soft and gentle hum ringing against the ear. Ansel lay in the tent and slowly drifted off to sleep.

Though he was asleep he moved restlessly on the hard ground. His body moving back and forth as gentle noises moved past his lips. Sweat slowly began to bead on his forehead and arms. The grunts and groans silently growing with each minute as he realized the dream that was playing in his mind, not caring but indulging in his pain. He hated the dream that plagued him every day of his life. He could remember the past so clearly even though he did not want to.

* * * * *

He could see himself, at the age of 10, with a large smile on his face standing next to his father. His father gently held his hand and pointed out certain people and what they where doing. The days light shined silently on his face as he glanced around the small town. The town was constructed not to far from the old city that few spoke about. The name of the city he had never found out and was probably happy that he did not.

Each of the towns buildings where made of old wood. The roofs where made from hay which they had gathered at the first years harvest. He looked across the many buildings, which seemed to be so uniform in design and placed in such odd directions and patterns. As his eyes crossed the town’s gate he noticed smoke that had never been there before today. As his father was speaking Ansel tugged on his arm and with a curious tone pointed to the smoke and spoke. “Look dad! I think someone is coming to visit.”

As father looked up some people began to crest the hill silently. As they did his eyes suddenly went wide and he screamed out. The words where never clear in his mind as they rang from his fathers lips. The screams that soon followed always came so clearly though. He could feel his father take him closer to his side as told Ansel the last words that his son would hear. “Son. Run and hide. No matter what happens to me stay hidden. Please do not let anything happen to you or your mother.”

Soon Ansel nodded and turned. Running away from his father and into the nearest house. His body quickly enough found an area just big enough to hold his small frame. His knees touching his chest as he hugged them tightly afraid of what was going to come next. A gentle sobbing crossed his tears as he heard soft talking outside. He could hear his father and then the sudden bang. Time passed so quickly then. He could not keep track of how many minutes or seconds or whatever amount of time had passed before the low deep growl came to the door.

Moving just a bit Ansel stuck his head out just enough to see a large creature at the door. Its eyes where a deep red which seemed to burn at the thought of some human in the home. Its nostrils a bit too large for its head flared as it sniffed. Soon enough his eyes landed on Ansel’s and the rest of its body entered through the door. Its head was large compared to its body. The muscular frame was mall about the same size as a medium sized dog. It growled lowly and then suddenly the body became round and larger. The tan flesh stretching and growing as the creature seemed to balloon.

Once it reached its full thickness it opened its mouth and flame shot toward Ansel. He screamed and quickly found his way over the table to his right and out the door. He could see his father in the middle of the road covered in blood but could not stop to plead next to him. To cry at his father’s death since the creature was just behind him. The growl was causing his body to shiver as he continued to run. Toward another home that stood proudly though the roof was on fire as he entered into it.

* * * * *

As he slept and noticed himself enter that second home his body suddenly jolted up into a sitting position. His heart raced quickly as he felt the slender fingers of a hand touch his bare shoulder. He spun around and moved back as quickly as he could to get away from the feeling of the hand. His mind was caught in that dream that he had. It was lost into the imagination that his mind had used to bring around his memory of the past.

As he noticed the person his eyes locked onto the shadow covered form. Jane sat in that spot and was stunned at how quickly his body moved away from her own. His eyes held something she never thought she would see from this person. The sight of fear nearly burst from his eyes as he looked to her. The same emotion that causes many to suddenly become strong and able to do things we never thought possible. Able to bring about the end of another to protect our own lives. As she noticed this sight of fear she quickly reacted to calm him before he caused either of them any harm. "Ansel! It's only me, Jane. You don't need to worry."

As he heard her voice it provided little comfort from the fear that still coursed through his veins. His breathing was quick and almost erratic as he looked to her. He was able to catch his mind before his body suddenly moved and struck at her with something. Jane sat there noticing him catching himself from nearly loosing to his fear. She sighed gently as she sat back slightly and watched him. He finally caught his mind enough to speak as his breathing slowly fell back to normal. "I am sorry about that Jane."

As he noticed the smile that crossed her lips, he began to feel a bit eccentric. His body stiffened quickly and his mind became more active. He listened carefully and silently. That single smile had instantly caused Ansel to on edge. He did not what was causing it but something was happening it and it would mean trouble. He knew that something was coming this way and soon..

While he listened, a soft rustling was heard just a bit in the distance. He heard the soft sound of air being pushed from a muzzle. Quickly he grabbed his sword and spun around to sit just next to Jane. As his butt found the hard ground under the tent four large claws slashed through the side where he had been sitting. Ansel cussed under his breath and quickly ran forward. His sword was pulled back and ready to slash just as another claw slashed through the same side of the tent.

Just as the claw was about to strike his arm Ansel jumped up and onto it. His body was being removed with the hand to the outside. As the cold wind ran against him, he almost lost his breath. His eyes landed upon the monster that was sent after him by some unknown man. It stood far taller then Ansel. Its back lifted and fell with its breath at least thirty feet into the air. His front paws where twice the size of its back paws. They seemed well adapted for slashing and snapping things. The light tan fur of the creature was rough and felt much like needles if rubbed the wrong way. The large mane on its neck caused it to look much like a mutated lion. As the paw landed, Ansel wasted no time rushing up the creature’s leg.

The creature let loose a large growl and snapped at Ansel. As the monster's head neared him Ansel pulled a small throwing dagger from his shoulder armor and threw it quickly to his right. The monsters eye being the path of it. When the knife struck the monster let out a loud scream of pain. Blood began to rush free from its now closed eye. As Ansel finally reached the shoulder he quickly turned and pulled his gun from its side. His eyes began to burn a bright red. A soft chant slowly pulling from his lips into the night air and echoing off the farthest mountain only to be heard louder and clearer. As the words came to an end, his gun began to glow. The creature was bucking under him. It was trying to get him off. As the monster raised it’s head to roar Ansel fired.

A beam about five feet around slammed into the back of the creature’s head. The skin slowly being eaten away and a low deep roar gurgled from its throat. After a second or two the beam slammed through the creature and into the ground. The large clumps of dirt surrounding the beam flying off in all directions. The beam soon stopped and the creature fell to the ground. The hole in his neck quickly filling with its green blood. Pouring over the hair and moving from under the creature down the hill and into the small formerly clear stream that rested not to far away.

Hopping off the monster Ansel looked directly into Jane’s eyes and spoke. “Next time they send a monster after me… … I hope they make sure it is strong enough to beat me… Moreover, from now on you are not to leave my sight. I will deliver you to Centauron. It seems someone is after one of us two” His voice was deep and warning trying to let her know that danger was certainly about. His body moved toward hers as he slowly pulled his sleeping bag from the tent and placed it near the fire. His eyes turning to the dead beast and then to Jane before he lay back down silently next to the fire. He could not sleep… not after his accursed dream.

Darkness Meets

While dark clouds swayed and danced outside in the endless struggle and battle a strong thunder storm made a man stood silent within a small room. The long corridor that was along the long path curved silently with a gentle sloping gradient downward. This downward slope slowly moved the room underground. The echoes of peoples feet rang off the walls and into the dark room making it almost impossible for any to "Sneak up" on those within.

The large metallic door that hung just lightly ajar was the major blocking way from a person entering the room today. And within, lost in the dark shadows of not just the room.. but his own mind, stood a man standing, tall and proud. As the small amount of light from the flickering candles outside screamed silently through the crack of the window the back of his clothing was visible. The gentle swaying light made each small wrinkle of his clothing as he stood shine brightly or be hidden away in the shadows that seemed to hold and love him so much. The soft dampness of his freshly rained upon hair shined brightly while each flicker of soft candle light danced upon the dark brown surface.

The light clanking of boots echoed down the hall as they where supposed to. Causing the head of the man to raise silently, lightly, just enough to give a sort of acknowledgement that something was coming. The sound of the footsteps instantly told the man that stood so deep in the shadows who was walking down the ramps. The light clink of metal upon stone showed he was a warrior. The heavy footfalls showed he was of great stature. And the pace he walked at showed he was cocky and too proud of his own skills to admit he could loose easily. The name that came instantly to the mind of the man in the shadows was Trapalus.

As the footfalls became louder and louder a man slowly rounded the corner near the door. The armor was stained with red and scratched severely. The battle that was recently fought in the plains near here had been won but just barely. The armor that rested upon the large frame of Trapalus was proof enough of that. While the battle was bloody and they had lost many men the battle was still won and so it would be for many more battles. The man in the shadows knew this. Soon enough the thoughts of the man where shattered as the deep huskily voice of Trapalus rang through the once silent room "Well Lestus. Tis been a long time. The battle upon the plains of Nuhazara have been won and our rule grows larger. Many of their men have defected and are asking to join our ranks. But enough of this unneeded speaking. you called for me and here I am."

"Then take your seat upon the Red eye Trapalus." The voice of Lestus was deep, knowledgeable and able to make even the most brave of men fall to their feet in sheer wonder and fear. The eyes, though, of Lestus where not seen. not by Trapalus as this small meeting of two had been placed to a quick and immediate end. Some time would pass before even the smallest sound of heavy breathing would pass between him and Trapalus. Trapalus had learned some time ago that when Lestus spoke so clearly, so deep that even his bones clattered together as he shivered then it was best not to speak to him.

With each passing second Trapalus felt more and more nervous. He did not like to sit by himself with Lestus so near him. Lestus had grown to become the only person that Trapalus truly feared. His eyes closed silently as he listened to the soft breathing of his own husk voice. His eyes moved back and forth as he tried to imagine the picture of the room if it was lit. But as quickly as the picture came it disappeared just as quickly. He could hear the soft sound of padded feet came slowly down the path. Trapalus smiled and spoke just loud enough his voice could be heard. “Sounds like Benik is here."

"I know you fool. I have ears." Lestus snapped back. Lestus was not one to be told the obvious. He had always found it was quite irritating to be told something he already knew. His light sigh passed his lips finally as the form of Benik came into view. Benik was overweight and obviously had no real trouble finding food. His hat rested upon the fat folds of his face almost as though it was part of himself. His large baggy clothing from many years back had become taught and molded to his round body. The marks of a church long since gone after the great war still there.

Just as he entered his rolling gurgly voice that could make any man wince in agony at the mere thought of his grotesque form. “Ohhh the angels sing as I Benik arrive at this small convening to learn of the news that the great pope of our time Lestus wishes to speak. I am here as you requested and am willing to sit upon the dusty floor for you if so you wish."

"Shut up with you mild brown nosing. I am in no mood to listen to you wine like a baby just so you can go home and stuff your flubbery face. Sit down and be quiet. This meeting will finally begin." Lestus slowly moved to one side of the room. His fingers danced silently in the dark room and slowly a flame appeared upon the end of a candle that had been sitting there for some time. The room instantly became brighter and the dull outline of the table where all of the others sat was seen. The light portrait like dancing of the flame was added onto by another as slowly the next candle was lit. And on went this action over and over untill the room was bright and all the candles lit.

The table was decorated in the center by a menacing portrait of three large eyes crossed around one pupil. The main eye was centered straight ahead so that it was the front… the leader of sorts. The eye was black. The second eye rested behind it at a small forty-five degree angle leaning to the right.