Art: UnlimitedCrazy
Song: Winter Dawn by Jens Kiilstofte
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"I'm 100 percent sure that what I just experienced is real."
-Drake, The Haunted, episode 11: Infiltration

Third person point of view-

(One hour ago)

The two families had just finished preparing the meals for their picnic, which would be their mid afternoon courses well deserved after the day had poured barrels of stress upon them. Landen jumped around happily, running between the two mothers with a twinkle of excitement in each mismatched eye. The child was well aware of the misfortunes that had been handed to their family that day, their own home unsafe to return to and fear of being attacked aching inside of her mother each moment that passed by, however she refused to allow the tragedy to keep her from having fun.
She erupted into a sweet sounding laughter as Jane grabbed and lifted her as high as she could, surprised by her feathery weight, before falling back onto the couch while still holding the child up in the air. The two shared their laughter and joy, contagious to their parents now laughing in the kitchen along with them.
As their laughter faded, smiles remaining, Endy was the first to rip her gaze away from the children to look at the blue haired, searching for the anxieties that she was well aware remained lingering within her friend.

"Thank you guys." Lalea finally spoke, her voice more hush that it usually was, though remained legible. "It's so sweet of you to allow us to stay here. I don't know how to repay you."

Endy replied happily. "It's not a problem, no need for repayment. As long as this little one doesn't cause trouble!" As that was being said, Landen ran into the kitchen, Endy swiping the advantage to tickle her, bringing up more laughter that left the child's face red and warm.

Lalea watched with a smile before her gaze lowered to Xavier, who was crouched on the floor organizing the contents of the basket, expression shifting from happy to concentration. His hair was pulled back into a messy ponytail as it was when he prepared food, his hair too short to make one properly, leaving strands of chestnut hair poking out in all directions. He closed the basket and stood, a bright smile dominating his lips and cheeks.

"Seems that everything is accounted for and that we have just enough for everyone. Let's get goin', shall we?"

He held out a hand with his palm upwards, bowing slightly in waiting for Endy to take his grasp. Just before she could, the ground shook violently, the pictures on the walls and antiques on shelves and tables quivering with violence. Lelea reaches out and grabs Landen, Xavier doing the same with Endy. It only lasted a few seconds before it came to pass. Xavier sighed in relief as he let his spouse go, giggling as if it were nothing.

"Been a few days since we've had one of those. I hope it wasn't too bad out west. I heard the calamity is getting bad down there."

Lalea glanced down to her child, making sure that she was okay. Suddenly, as the tensions from the earthquake died and after quake they were waiting for became less likely, a bright blue light sparked in the center of the living room, expanding and glowing brighter.

"Uncle Armen!" Landen cheered before Armen even constructed his appearance, his body forming and features smoothing out.

Once fully formed, his soft smile rose on his lips as he greeted everyone. Landen ran to him, Armen allowing her to hug his legs, rubbing her head. "Hey, sweetie. It's nice to see you."

Endy greeted him then tilted her head a bit, growing curious. "What brings you here? I thought it took a lot of energy out of you to come here while Drake is not around."

Armen agreed, telling her that he was currently using an excessive amount of energy and would not be capable of staying for long. He added that Drake asked him to check up on his family awhile ago, however he needed to regain energy before reforming. His voice had a slight quiver with pauses here and there, as though weak or retaining information.

"How is everyone doing on the trip? Are they heading home yet?' Jane asked from her seat upon the couch, which she had gotten up from and sat back down on after Armen's arrival.

The spirit's smile dropped, hesitating and struggling to find his words. "I felt pain, meaning that Drake was hurt. A few times I felt pain actually. I tried to get into the crypt, however when I tried...my body practically reverted back to its Nightmare state." He flickered yet again.

The adults felt their eyes widen, small gasps from the three from their shock. Endy questioned how that was possible, Armen answering that it was the effects of black magic, the very substance that filled the crypt. It was obvious that Lalea was trying not to hyperventilate from panic, Xavier offering comfort with a few rubs on the back. Armen continued, his voice shaking.

"At first, I was angry, furious for no reason. I couldn't control it and...I was cast out of heaven as a Nightmare. I felt..." He looked to Landen, not wanting to describe the thoughts he had in those short moments of time. "Next I felt physical pain, then it all went away. I decided to look around the mountain to the crypt again. Another few minutes went by and the agony became physical. I don't feel it as much now, but it's lingering. My body, it keeps fading in and out, which is not at all good. It could mean that his injuries were sever."

Lalea pleaded to know that he was okay, Armen telling her that he was still alive, however he was still in the crypt, therefore he could not get to him to see what was wrong. He tried to calm them, saying that it could have been the black magics effect on him or something minor with Drake. It was a struggle to hide his doubt. The humans were relieved to know that their friend, and family was still alive, though discouraged to hear of his possible serious injuries. That then raised another question.

"How could he have been hurt?" Xavier asked, knowing that nothing could hurt Drake aside from the weapons of the guards, soldiers and Grayson's sword.

Armen moved his head, shrugging. "I don't know, but I will find out what happened, don't worry. Besides, he can heal himself." He paused, wanting to change the subject to repress not only his own worries, but those of his companions.

"What has been going on here? It looks like I interrupted a nice outing preparation."

Jane answered. "Well, for one, we just had an earthquake."

"Geez. Nothing damaged?"

"Nothing we know of. We were about to go out to a picnic... Dad is being drafted soon, so we all want to spend time together, and," Her eyes cast to Lalea, who continued for her.

"Our house was attacked again. Landen and I will be staying here until we are sure that it is safe to go back home."

Armen growled, his body flickering with his shift in emotions as anger was introduced. He did not understand how someone could do such a thing, to be so cruel such as to destroy the home of an innocent family, then again he was a vessel to Herobrine, understanding a sense of satisfaction in the destruction. His body flicked yet again, now trying to suppress the less than unpleasant memories and emotions.

"They'll all get what's coming to them. Grayson and Drake will be sure of that. I'm glad that you all are safe at the least."

Half hearted smiles flooded back to the two families, happy with that fact. Armen ruffled Landen's hair, causing her to giggle. The spirit turned his attention to Xavier, asking why he was being sent out now when Grayson had been trying to prolong it however long he could.

The spy answered, an odd bitterness not towards Armen, but to the war itself. "The enemy is advancing towards Iron mere. We need to head out as soon as we can to figure out their plans of attack. Though we need to wait for Grayson to come back to be sure that everything is ready." He adjusted his fingers around the handle of the basket.

Armen cast his gaze to the floorboards, getting lost in thought as he speculated what the enemy would want with Iron mere. The answer was obvious.

"Iron mere? The only thing I can think could be of value to them are the artifacts. I should tell Drake and Grayson of this."

His gaze traveled back to the family, noting the worried expressions, assuring them that everything would be okay. With a smile and a wave with his hand, he wished them all goodbye, Landen holding up her arms for a hug which he took happily. Her arms wrapped around his neck, and his arms around her. His niece told him that she loved him and how glad she was to see him again, Armen replying back that he was happy to see her as well. Armen's soft smile grew before pulling away. With his body flickering a few times, he stepped back, his body slowly fading until only the air and a dim cyan remained in his place, a light that to, shortly faded.
...

Armen's point of view-

When I tried teleporting to Drake after his aura left the cloud of black magic, I found that I couldn't go back to earth for a prolonged amount time. When I tried, my body would flicker and my being would fill with pain, feeling too weakened to form my body into the material plain. What had happened to Drake? How could it have been so bad that I was feeling this weakened?
By the time I felt well enough, I teleported near the airship on the island, only to look up and find that the airship was already in the sky, slowly sailing away through the air.
I growled, trying to muster the strength to teleport once more, distracted by a sudden feeling that surged through my being. If I had a body, I knew that it would have shuddered, skin covering in goosebumps. I felt unnerved, even more so as I took in the disconcerting sounds emitting around me. Growling, snarling, scratching and other sounds I had only known when I was or encountered one of Herobrine's Nightmare.
A sudden inhuman scream emanated from behind, causing me to spin around to find the source. Just as the ground quivered beneath me, trying to shake me off of my balance, that creature came at me with full force. Tall, slender creature with sapphire eyes leapt out from the shadows, elongated claws stretched out and a jaw unhinged to clasp down on flesh that I did not possess. It's tail swayed, twisted horns on its head glowing the same hue as its eyes.
Instinctively, I pushed my feet on the ground to gain distance between, momentarily forgetting that I could just teleport. I have not been in combat since my death, reverting back to the mindset I had when I was actually breathing. With quick movements, it swung again and again, until it finally managed to land a strike.
It was an odd, miserable feeling as it's claws sunk into my chest, another demon that I had not taken notice of biting down onto my shoulder. I could feel the darkness and the light entangle and clash inside of me, more so PTSD inducing than painful, bringing back memories of when Drake had given me his life force to come back to life while he had perished, feeling the darkness and light, life and death entangled as one.
For a moment, I was scared, wondering how this could affect me when I was already dead. Would I fade back into the Aether? Would these things drag me down to h**l? Would I fade away? I knew that I was thinking irrationally.
Then, unexpected to me, the creatures screamed as if they were in agony the moment they touched me, quickly withdrawing themselves and backing away. I looked down at the areas where I was struck, a blackness of shadows spreading like poison from where it had made contact with me, quickly fading as my body glowed bright to extinguish the dark. I looked back up to the creatures, demons, whatever they were, realization coming to my head as I took in the pained glaze of their eyes. The one who had bitten me no longer had a jaw, it's tongue handing down, swaying, and the second had it's claws stripped away on the hand that had struck me. It then came into my knowledge, that these things are weak to light just like Nightmares. I'm a being of pure light, they can't touch me without damaging themselves.
I smiled, though it was short lived upon my face as I recalled the reason I was here to begin with. With the creatures fading into the shadow, I cast my gaze into the sky to see the airship which was now only a dot in the sky nearly hidden by the clouds. With what little strength I had left, though being sure to keep just enough to stay on this world, I focused and teleported onto the ship.
As the light around my vision settled, the details of the world coming to view, I took the time to take in the details of the ridges between wooden planks of the floor and the woolly texture of the clouds as the airship passed them blissfully by. The sound of the airships propellers were loud, though tolerable, quiet enough to allow me to hear conversation taking place behind me.
I found myself falling in my weakened state, my body fading in and out from the world. As if I were human, I groaned and whimpered, clinging to my strength. I then began to hear two voices calling out my name, light and sounding feminine. Humanoid figures appeared in my vision as they rushed to my sides, female figures taking form. Samantha and Angie.

"Armen!" They called out, grabbing at me to attempt to lift me up, myself forgetting that I had to consciously give them permission to touch me. Once the thought came to my mind, they were finally able to take hold and hoist me up to my feet.

"How are you here?" Angie help surprise and shock in her voice.

I could barely hear the question with my running thoughts, looking to the girls, noting how their smiles were not lifted as high as I had expected of the two archeologists which seemed out of character for the two, especially since they were meant to be returning from one of the bitter hits of their careers. Beneath their eyes was a mild puffiness. I did not ask why, assuming it to be an effect from restless sleep brought to them the previous night from their excitement.

"I have news for Grayson and Drake. Do you know where they are? Is Drake okay?"

The girls looked to one another, smiles and the slivers of happiness fading from their usually bright eyes. I felt a horrible dread setting in, knowing that based on their reactions, his condition could not have been good. I repeated my first question, asking where they were and how bad the situation was, this time receiving a low voiced reply from Samantha.

"Things went wrong at the crypt and...we lost multiple people and everyone else was either exhausted and went to rest or went down to the medical barracks to tend to wounds. Drake was...he was injured the most. I think you just need to see it yourself." I could see sparkling on the surface of her eyes, the water forming at their corners threatening to give way.

Honestly, I was scared to see him. I knew that he was alive, but based on my own weakness, I knew that he was barely holding on. I nodded and forced up the courage to see my brother in his dire state. As I closed my eyes and teleported to his location, I silently prayed that it would not be as horrid as I had imagined.
As I adjusted to my surroundings, I could see the beds lined against the wall, one in particular directly in front of me where multiple people sat around, one laying in the bed itself and another laying in the bed across from it.
Mia sat to my left on a chair, eyes once immersed in the book in her grasp now fixating onto myself. Grayson was seated across from her on my right, eyes baggy as if exhausted and ready to pass out at any given moment. He was leaning forward in his seat, just either finishing removing his prosthetic, which was gravely damaged by the looks of it, or was about to fasten it back on. In the bed next to them laid Cecile, whom was asleep and shirtless, revealing dressing once white now stained in blood, wrapped around his upper torso and right shoulder.
Between Grayson and Mia, resting on the bed safely beneath the covers... I couldn't see for a moment as my body flickered in and out of the realm, however I knew who it was. As my being settled and relaxed, I was able to confirm my belief. Drake...

"Armen!" Mia whispered as to not wake the young mage on the bed beside them.

Grayson took over. "What are you doing here? I thought that you couldn't manifest without Drake's permission?"

That was just a misconception. I could form at any time, though since I was bound to Drake, I have more energy to do so while he is in good health and conscious. I did not answer as I took in my brother's jarring state, bloodied and unconscious. While his skin was naturally an unhealthy pale, his human side at least, something about it was off to me. More so feverish. I could tell that he was sweating profusely, as made obvious by glimmer of the light against the liquid in the pores of his face. Grayson's question was lost to me for a few short moments, only brought back to reality by Mia repeating my name.

"H-how bad is it? What happened?"

Grayson and Mia stared at the comatose hybrid. Grayson was the first to find his voice, tainted with spite. "Dante...that son of a b**ch." The emperor spat. "He turned on us and attacked Drake. Stabbed him with manyullyn and poisoned him with witches blood."

Each word seemed to bring a different emotion into my system. Shocked, repulsed, disheartened, though most of all, I was terrified for Drake's well being. "Witches blood? That can..." I was quickly cut off, seeing the grimness in their expressions, understanding that they were well aware of the potential cost.

"We know. Along with that, that b**ch released a massive hoard of demons, including one that possessed Jeremiah. He's gone too." His voice was hollow, broken, though by his choice of words, I could tell how furious he truly was.

I held my hand over my chest, feeling the aching, burning pain that Drake was in. Jeremiah is gone too? I was just getting to know him, he was so kind. I could not help but to imagine what he was going through, myself knowing more than nearly anyone what goes on in the minds of the possessed. My flickering body dragged me away from recalling my days under Herobrine's control.
I could see how stressed my friends already were, making me feel awful for the news I was tasked with laying on the emperor's shoulders.

"Grayson, I have news from the empire." Grayson looked to me with a heavy sigh, awaiting whatever more pressures he had to burden.

I continued. "Enemy forces are advancing towards Iron mere. Emmit is suggesting sending out the spies as soon as possible."

The evergreen clothed released a low growl, head falling back as he rubbed his temples to ease a migraine he must have felt coming on. He replied softly, opening his eyes halfway, which were tearing up in pain.

"Wait for us to arrive back at Segatara and I'll deploy them then. I want plans to be made to evacuate Iron mere, preferably plans for them to head south east away from the war zone...and Armen, tell Lalea about what happened. I don't want her to be left in the dark if...I think we should all brace ourselves, for the war, and for..."

He kept avoiding saying the words, but Mia and I were both aware of what he was implying. Mia stood from her seat with a sudden spark ignited in her eyes, clashing with their lime coloration. It caused the blonde male, including myself, to flinch.

"No! Don't you dare think those things, Grayson!"

Cecile sprung up from his slumber from Mia's outburst, groans and hissing in pain as the sudden jolting of his body caused soreness to flare through his wound, apparent as he quickly grasped his injured shoulder with squinted eyes and clenched teeth. Drake remained completely motionless, out cold. Mia quickly apologized to Cecile, who answered through his teeth that all was forgiven.
Mia and Grayson faced their attention back to one another, Mia's fists balling.

"Drake is going to make it through this. He's been through worse, and you know that."

Grayson said nothing, only looking down, as if ashamed that he had thought of Drake dying as if it were a high possibility. I noticed him looking back to Drake, his lips moving with barely legible words slipping from his mouth.

"I would rather his family know what happened then leave them in the dark. I do have faith that he will make it...but you saw those lines on his body. The poison is destroying him inside and out."

Cecile stepped in. "Perhaps if we tell Drake's family and the magi, they could think of a cure."

The anger seemed to flush out of the elf's system, knowing that Cecile was onto something. She sighed and gave in, agreeing with the boys that I should tell Drake's family and have them give the message to the magi guild. I nodded agreed to the order, staring at Drake. I focused on the pain, my body flickering and flashing. I would not able to form myself and inform Lalea and the others right away. That would need to wait a few minutes until I gained back some strength.
With that, I retreated back to the Aether, waiting to recover.
...

Lalea's point of view-

Xavier, Endy and I sat on the wide red blanket on top of the lush green grass, talking and laughing. After the day I have had, it was nice to just sit and relax, to be able to laugh. I looked over to the girls who were playing by the tree, Jane hanging from the lowest branch thick enough to hold her weight, legs hooked onto the branch much like Xavier often did. Xavier cheered her on, telling us how proud he was. I smiled, Jane taking Landen's hand and swinging her back and forth briefly before the blood rushing to her head must have gotten to her, forcing the spy in training to jump back down to the ground.
Lavender gardens was a beautiful place, it, as the name suggests, is filled with vast hedges and lavender plants that filled the air with a fresh, sweet fragrance. I came here often while pregnant to help myself relax. Drake and I had a few dates here as well before we were married. It seemed like so long ago. The memories brought a wider smile to my cheeks. Endy's giggling suddenly felt louder in my ear, turning my head to notice her eyes on me.

"I'm glad to see you smiling, Lalea."

I pushed a stand of hair back behind my ear. "I do feel better. Much more relaxed."

We stayed there for a few minutes, calling the girls over to eat with us. We had a few conversations, such as how Jane's training was going or Landen's magic practice. It warmed my heart to see how excited my baby girl was when talking about magic, how she had teleported and all of the other wonderful things she could do. Must I say, it was adorable when she said that she could nearly fit in Drake's armor, despite that the chest plate alone covered half her body. See Landen was actually very small for her age, which was odd when compared to the height of her father but it was something I adored. She would always be my little baby.
After awhile, I felt a presence, an energy growing stronger until our heads lifted to see cyan light; Armen. Immediately my anxiety came back, wondering if everyone was okay on their trip and if they were returning home.
Already I could see the pain and discomfort in his eyes, noticing his hands in his pockets and how he appeared fraught.

"Armen! How is everyone?"

His eyes were half lidded, not having the words to tell us as he turned his head. My heart started racing, standing up and stepping closer. "Is everyone okay?"

"Not everyone...Dante betrayed them and released some sort of demon that possessed Jeremiah, and...Drake was severely injured, though he is still alive. When I saw him, he was unconscious."

I was in shock, not understanding how this could have happened. For a moment or two I was frozen, my mind slowly trying to process the information. When I finally got my thoughts together and my mouth to open, Xavier was already speaking his own mind.

"Dante? That son of a- I knew that he was no good!" He got up and turned away from us, anger in his eyes.

I looked to the kids, being sure that they were a good distance away from the conversation, however Xavier standing up caught their attention. I turned my head back to Armen. "How bad of a shape is he in? What about the others?... Why would Dante want to summon a demon?"

He shook his head. "Cecile was hurt as well, though he was able to wake up unlike Drake. It seems that Drake wasn't able to heal him somehow. The others, from what I know, had more minor injuries and a few scars that Drake healed before he passed out. As for Dante... I don't know. I'm sorry."

Drake hasn't woken up yet? How long has he been out and how serious is it? I wanted to ask yet I also wanted to avoid berating Armen with questions. With every second, the questions and worries built up until tears dotted the corners of my eyes, Endy placing a hand on my back to calm me.

"Xavier," The spy turned his head, the tears in my eyes blurring his expression that I was sure held an uncharacteristic anger. "I have news from Grayson as well. Have Emmit and the high ranks begin making preparations to evacuate Iron mere. Make plans to have them head south east."

Xavier nodded. The spirit turned his head back to my direction and continued. "Lalea, Endy, I need you two to have the magi guild begin researching witches blood to find and possibly of a cure."

"Witches blood?" Endy repeated. "Drake was poisoned? That's used as a poison for demons, it's one of the things that got Herobrine out of Drake's body! As far as I know, there is no cure!"

My brother in law gave a slow, grim nod. I had forgotten to breath, suddenly finding myself gasping and coughing, the tears finally falling from my eyes.

"Mommy?" I looked up, Landen's wide doe eyes on me with her bottom lip trembling, and shoulders hunched.

I wiped my eyes, trying to assure her that I was fine, standing as I insisted that it was time for us to leave. Armen's body began to flicker as it did before, the spirit groaning before telling us that it was time for him to leave. I knew that he did not want to go, however it was a must to recover his energy that was surly at a severe low due to Drake's condition. Along with that, I could see that he wanted to say more, only able to attempt to assure us that everything would be okay that we had been through worse; that there was no issue that Drake could not tackle. It did help me to feel better, at least to a degree.
Armen faded, leaving us standing there as we tried to figure out the appropriate actions to take next and deal with the information thrown at us. If Drake was poisoned with witches blood, then what did that mean for him? Not only did he have Herobrine's powers, but he was also part Enderman, a low class overworld demon, so would that still mean that Drake could die or simply be ill? Either way, I felt awful. I was terrified and I was upset with myself for having thought of scolding him when he got home for what I had found.

"Mommy, did something happen with daddy? Uncle Armen wouldn't look so sad if not."

I had to force on a smile. "Daddy was ... a little hurt, but he's okay."

Landen gazed downward, in thought. "I've never seen daddy get hurt, but he's strong! He's okay!" Her arms tossed over my shoulders, pulling me into an embrace.

A smile found its way back onto my face, lifting up my daughter as I returned the gentle, calming hug. Endy and Jane began cleaning up the food and rolling up the blanket while Xavier wandered off not too far to deal with his frustration. After he returned, he spoke softly, informing us that he needed to get to the palace and inform Emmit to begin the evacuation plans. Endy added that she and I needed to go to the magi guild and inform the magi of the incident to begin researching. Xavier offered to help us after he finished his job, Endy and I thanking him.
After leaving, it was difficult to keep my anxiety under wraps. Years ago I never used to have this issue, these overwhelming worries. I suppose it just comes along with matrimony and parenthood. However, it is worth it. Besides the matter, I had to focus on getting to the guild, praying along the way that we would find something, anything, of use.
...

Drake's point of view-

"No matter what we did, you and I, it would never change. This time is different. Do not f**k it up."

Immediately, before I could even open my eyes from the dreary blackness, my body was writhing. It was crying out yet no words could make it past my dry lips. Was I waking up? Was I truly dead this time around and simply suffering down in h**l? No, I had to be waking up. I could hear distant voices, begging me to open my eyes. For minutes on end, I sat there with my mind fighting my body, unable to move or to speak, trapped in a limbo within my own vessel, able to hear and feel yet unable to see or to do anything. That terrified me.
Once my body could finally move, my eyes snapped open as a reaction to the pain I was in. While everything was blurred, I could see two figures jump at the bottom of my vision, hearing Grayson and Mia's familiar gasps and voices as they called my name.
Instinctively, I sat up straight to toss my arms over my stomach as if it would calm the stabbing pain I felt. As I tried, it dawned on me that my legs, left arm and half of my right arm were completely numb. I used the muscle in my torso to sit up; I instantly regretted it. The pain shot up through my body, though did not draw out a scream. I only hissed through my clenched teeth before both Grayson and Mia were suddenly embracing me tightly. My body flinched at their touch, my brain almost seeming to not know how to react to the pain that I was not supposed to feel.
What happened? Why am I in such agony? Why am I barely able to move?

"Drake, thank God you're awake!"

"We were so worried."

The attention was almost smothering, it made me irritated. Was that normal? I wiggled my body as best as I could without hurting myself, signaling for them to let go. Grayson took a moment longer before he took his arms away from me and scooted his seat back slightly. They were teary eyed with wide smiles. I finally took in my surroundings, the wooden box that made up the walls, floor and ceiling, the bed lined against the walls with a few cabinets or chairs here and there and a dreadful iron musk that only took me a moment to settle with. I felt the swaying and the uncomfortable springs of the mattress beneath my body. The airship?

"What happened?" I asked. "I can't feel most of my body." Once again I tried to sit up, only lifting my chest before Grayson pushed me back down to decrease risk of me hurting myself.

He sat back down in his seat, talking fast yet slightly hushed. I then noticed Cecile sleeping next to us, blood covering his upper body. "Drake, stay down and relax or you'll end up hurting yourself."

I shook my head, whispering questions such as asking what had happened at the crypt, why were Cecile and I injured, and how I possibly could have been hurt. As Grayson explained, Mia got up and quickly left with an obvious objective in mind. As Grayson told me everything, I began to remember. I remembered fighting Dante and being stabbed repeatedly. I remembered that rift opening and that thing being let out, possessing Jeremiah before the final fatal blow was inflicted on me. Obviously I survived, unless this is a dream, but...that dream, whatever it was...

"I could have stopped Dante...I-I could have saved Jeremiah..."

"Drake, don't start with that, please. None of us knew this would happen...quite blaming yourself for things that aren't your fault." I wanted to growl, remembering our fight in the crypt. While the black magic had infected me then, what I had said to him in my frustrations remains true...

As I lost myself in my own memories, Mia returned with two bottles, one with healing elixir and another with water. Looking down at my bloody bandages, I had doubts that I would be able to keep either one down long enough, not that I would be likely to under normal circumstances anyhow. I respectfully declined both of the bottles at first until both the elf and emperor scolded me for declining it, acting like parents forcing their young children to eat vegetables at dinner. Eventually I reluctantly took them both, mumbling that I would only throw it all back up in a few seconds or minutes. I did gag, the pain in my stomach growing until Mia grabbed a bin and held it up for me to release the liquid that refused to stay down. Grayson held me by the shoulders, gently lowering me back down onto the uncomfortable mattress afterward.

"I told you." I barely had enough feeling in my arm to wipe away the saliva, even then it was agony to move my limbs at all, meaning that I only smeared the saliva on my chin rather than taking the time to painfully wipe it completely away.

I could hear Grayson mumble "I knew that was going to happen". Then why did you make me drink them?!

I growled softly as I closed my eyes, trying to relax. However as I tried, that exact question slipped from my lips. Grayson made a sound like a whimper, Mia blaming herself, having not known that would happen. I opened my eyes, telling them that it was my own fault for drinking them in the first place knowing that my stomach was already increadly weak. Not just that but it was recently stabbed. I don't know if it had healed yet.
Resting with my thoughts taking over, the memory of the encounter with Herobrine came back to me yet again. I opened my mouth to speak, which felt much more comfortable to do. I suppose those drinks weren't all gone to waste as my mouth was no longer desert dry.

"I had an odd dream, um," I bit my tongue, wondering if I should continue until the words continued to flow past my chapped lips with minimal conscious consent. "I saw H...Him, while I was out,"

As I tried to gather my thoughts, Grayson interrupted. "It was just a nightmare, Drake. You're safe."

I shook my head. "No, it's not that. This was different than usual. He was calm, though he kept talking all of this nonsense about timelines and blaming me, then blaming both of us for its destruction or something." Even just talking about it gave me a headache.

They exchanged confused expressions, mixed with drops of shock or perhaps fear? I could not exactly tell. I repeated how it all felt so real, but not like I was reliving a memory or inside of my own head. It was like that demon was truly there beside me. Grayson once again insisted that that is was only a dream, his voice slowly taken by frustration at the thought of it.

Mia broke a short lived silence. "Do you think that it was...actually Him? What if..?"

Grayson instantly protested. "No! Herobrine is gone! We got rid of him and he is not coming back! I made sure if that. The portal is guarded at all times, he is not getting through. It was just a dream and that's final!"

Mia and I both flinched in our positions, surprised and a bit frightened by his sudden flare up of anger. He got up from his seat with a heavy sigh, now flustered as Cecile was woken up, aggravated mumbling and shoving his head into the pillow to try to block out the noise. I wanted to tell Grayson that I was sorry for even bringing it up, however I was aware that he hated it when I apologized for subjects such as this.
He sighed as he calmed his voice, holding his head while scrunching his features, as if burdened by a headache.

"I need to step out and see how everyone is doing." He released a long breath as he opened his eyes and lowered his hand. I could see his eyes bright with tears. "Everyone is pretty stressed and distraught about what happened on the island. Just get some rest buddy, don't let that stuff bother you, okay? You have us."

Grayson turned and walked out, leaving us in a rather unsettling atmosphere after the conversation. I wanted to curl up, I wanted to chase after him, however I could hardly move with my legs and arms in partial paralysis from the multiple stab wounds that my body was continuing to struggle to heal. Mia released a long breath, placing a bare hand on my forehead to check my temperature, as if I would not be ice cold for once, moving my hair and brushing it behind my ear.

"Sorry about that, Drake. He's not taking what happened very well. I'll go speak with him."

I nodded with a small groan, telling her to go talk with him and help him to relax. She smiled softly before standing and walking to the door. Her lime eyes cast towards me, making sure that I would be alright before she left to catch up with our friend.
Once she was out of sight, I looked down at my own chest, completely covered in bandages and crusty dried blood staining the white with a gross brown coloration. The only parts of my skin that I could see that was not covered was my arms between my shoulders and elbows and the top of my gaunt hips. I was put off when seeing the a white light leaking from blackness on my skin, a sickening green spreading out from the black like decaying skin.

"What the h**l?"

"It's an effect from the witches blood." My body jolted slightly from hearing that horrendous voice, looking out of the corner of my eyes to see his semi transparent form sitting a few bed down to my right.

"Just a hallucination as always."

"You don't have much time. I can't keep it a bay forever."
***

Mia's point of view-

I chased after Grayson, slightly agitated at how he handled the situation with Drake and his dream. Given, I probably should not have assumed that it truly was Herobrine, at least I should not have said my worries aloud to avoid scaring them both, however I did feel that it was necessary to consider the possibility. If it were true, then we could have another problem on our hands. Not just because of Drake's words, but I had another reason for my suspicions...

"Grayson, relax." I insisted, following behind him as he limped to the resting barracks. "I know that I shouldn't have said anything and made you two think those things. I'm sorry."

Truly, I did feel awful. Now I left Drake alone when he might be having a panic attack from what I had said. I can't do anything right, can I? It is my own fault that we got stuck in this mess to begin with. I insisted that we come here, I should have seen through Dante's lies, I should have protected my team; my friends! I felt my eyes tearing up, slowly finding it more straining to breath normally.

"Mia," Grayson and I stopped in front of the door, whispering as to not wake the people sleeping behind it. "Admittedly, I didn't handle that situation well either. My head is pounding and I'm exhausted so I'm a bit agitated. Besides, as I said, everyone is a bit stressed out at the moment. We don't need to add onto our troubles by worrying about Him."

He turned to enter the room, his arm extended out to the doorknob to open it. I reached out, grabbing his sleeve and pulling his arm back. His gaze shifted back towards me as he let out a low growl.

I continued. "Grayson...didn't you see his eye beneath his hair? It might have just been because of the glow or because I haven't seen it in awhile but, it looked almost white to me."

"Mia, his eyes are naturally glazed and faded. Since his eye is covered by his hair, you probably forgot that it naturally looks nearly white."

My hands came over my chest, my fingers nervously messing with one another. Perhaps he was right, I was just over analysing. I was beginning to get a headache as well. I apologized for worrying him, hearing his chuckle giving me a bit of relief.

"Right, sorry, again."

My friend sighed and insisted that we both just rest the day off, opening the door. Kyle and Victor were awake on their beds, as if too worried that something would happen if they were close their eyes and drift off into sleep. They quietly greeted us as we entered, obviously tired with bags beneath their eyes now visible with the absence of their helmets. They smiled while leading us to seperate empty beds once Grayson told them that he needed sleep. He sat on the bedside, removing his prosthetic and laying down on his side with his hands beneath his head, facing away from the bed that I sat on.
I tried to rest and to relax, however it was difficult as my mind constantly pushed the blame of all our current problems onto myself. I could only lay there, staring at the ceiling as my guilt and anxiety got the better of my brain. I looked to Grayson, watching him shifting until he eventually sat up, staring at nothing and messing with his sword then eventually the mangled mess that was his left of his metal leg as if he could fix it, trying to preoccupy his thoughts. I knew that he cast the blame upon himself just I had with my own decisions. He and I barely spoke for the rest of the journey back home, no one really did.
...

Lalea's point of view-

Xavier had told Jane to head with us as we went to the guild, insisting that he needed to cool off. It was obvious that he was frustrated, more so with himself for not having figured out Dante's true allegiance in the past when his personal suspicions had first arisen. Being a spy, I was sure that he believed it was his duty to find others like him, that he should have been able to tell that another person was a spy from a mile away. It wasn't his fault. What is it with guys and blaming themselves for problems? I suppose because they feel they need to protect everyone no matter their own lack of knowledge or strength. Why must everyone be pressured to put weight like that on their shoulders?
The magi guild and the palace were not too far from one another, practically connected as they were in such close proximity. As I had for years, I ignored the harsh glares I received from people on the streets, haven become used to the judgment and hate I had received for the past seven years since Drake and I were married. Fortunately it seemed that, as I had suggested to Emmit, there were more guards stationed around, one or two even offering to escort us, which I respectfully declined. While I often was escorted when summoned to the palace, it never did quite feel right, especially when Drake was gone. Despite recent events, likely needing the protection after our home was attacked, I felt weak needing to be watched over. I am far from weak, even if I have not been out in action for a few years. Give me a reason and I show will people how strong I am...I guess a failed when my home was up in flames.
The thought of it made my chest feel tight.
A sudden feeling began to slowly take form within me, something familiar. My heart began to quicken its once steady rhythm as my anxieties once again resurfaced. I felt as if I were being watched, though I kept making the excuse that it was only the people we were passing by and my own worries for everyone who went to the crypt. Even so, the atmosphere was definitely not right.
When we got to the front of the magi guild, Alexa was pacing around outside beside the door, Rosaline appearing to be trying to calm her. Endy and I glanced to one another in alarm before quickening our pace to get to her. From what we were able to hear from the conversation, Alexa felt as if she were being watched and seemingly on the brink of a panic attack. The other mage opened her mouth, trying to find the words to say to help in the situation.

"Alexa, what's the matter? Anything we can help with?"

Alexa shook her head, painting back on a stoic expression to mask the insecurities. "It's nothing. You don't need to worry about it."

Rosaline huffed, looking back to us. "After the earthquake, all of the magi began to feel off, like being watched and having flashes of dark emotions. Some have been on edge, angry or scared for no reason. We checked around the gild hall for anything that may have been causing it but found nothing."

Alexa sighed. "At least out here it feels easier to breathe."

So I was not the only one who felt that something was wrong? The brunette kept her arms around her chest, trying to find comfort in her own embrace. Despite trying to look strong, I could tell that she was concerned. Rosaline urged her to go inside to relax, however Alexa shook her head in refusal.

"Besides, I need to start preparing for a S-ranked mission I took on the requests board. Rosaline, Terra, Fervis and I are heading down to Morthal. They've apparently been reporting strange instances of monster attacks and people vanishing."

Endy spoke up. "Did you get approval for this? While Morthal is in imperial territory, it's also pretty far out west, I'm sure close enough to the war that emperor Grayson would have an issue with it."

"Don't worry about it. We have asked. Emmit informed us that it is still within imperial territory and far away from Iron mere so it's safe to go to. Why don't you two come along?" Rosaline asked.

I shook my head. "Sorry, but I have some...personal matters to attend to. Not to mention that I need to take care of Landen. If Endy goes, I can't leave her with anyone else."

Endy remained silent, as if deciding rather she wanted to go or not before reaching a conclusion. "I want to stay here and support you, Lalea. I'll stay here." I couldn't help but to smile, a bit of happiness joining the mixture of emotions I was feeling inside.

A single brow furrowed on Alexa's head. "Are you all okay? You seem distressed."

I explained what had happened from the incident involving the house to the news of Drake being injured on the trip. Rosaline expressed her concerns while Alexa remained black in her expression as she usually was. I asked for their help, Rosaline taking a moment for his friend to answer, which she never did, instead answering for her that they would both see what they could find.

Alexa shook her head, looking up to meet my eyes. "Lalea, you're my friend, I want to help you, but there has never been a reason for someone to take the time to research a cure for witches blood! It's the primary poison for demons, and who in their right mind would take the time to cure a dreadful demon?"

"That doesn't mean you can't try! I know how much you hate Drake and demons, but I'm your friend. If you can't do this for Drake, do it for me, please." I begged. I needed everyone to try to help, including her.

She turned away with a sigh, agreeing to help. "...I never said I wasn't doing it because I don't like Drake, I just...I'll try but I can't promise that we'll find anything."

After a moment or two, Alexa insisted that she and Rosaline should prepare for their mission in the morning and that would be up late doing so. They wished us luck in finding a cure for Drake before leaving, myself getting a faint feeling of deja vu, though not in the sense that Drake usually did, just that I recalled being desperate like this to find a cure back when Drake had mana corruption all those years ago.

Before the other two girls vanished, Endy stopped them, mainly Alexa. "Wait, Alexa, will you be saying goodbye to Meron? You two are always together so I figured-"

Alexa answered without Endy even finishing her sentence. "Of course. He'd panic if I didn't say anything. We are leaving tomorrow but I should be able to meet with him later today or before we leave to Morthal tomorrow."

We said our final goodbyes for the day, each of us wishing one another luck for our own goals. As they left, the worries I was previously feeling began to resurface. What was that oppressive feeling the guild members had been struck with? Was it the fear for my comrades and husband on that mission that was eating away at me, or was it from an entirely different source?
Going inside, the unsettling emotions became less intense, however we could hear others speaking, some engaged in conversation that they needed to get away from here. As we walked through the hall, many were beginning to leave, a hopelessness setting in knowing that if there was not enough people, there would be less of a chance of us finding any sort of cure. However, I understood their wanting to leave. At that moment, I could feel the dread in the atmosphere, my worries about Drake, Mia, Grayson and the others suddenly coming to my mind rapidly, not allowing my thoughts to rest. Endy rubbed my shoulder to calm me, however I could see in her eyes that she was just azs bothered, rather by the same reasons or not.
As some magi became aware of our presence, they began to cluster around us, informing us of some of their uncharacteristic anxiety and how after the earthquake, everyone had become uneased and a majority of people had left to relax.
I informed them all to gather in the main hall and I would discuss it, along with a separate issue of concern. Through the panic, they eventually listened, leaving and providing me room to breathe. I informed one of the S-ranked magi to gather everyone still on the upper floor and bring them down.
I went off to the main room, similar to a large lunch hall mainly consisted of wood, possessing a parquet floor and a mezzanine held up by wood beams overlooking it. Several long benches and the related tables stretched across its length with a bar and waitresses. The request board was located beside the bar and a stage with a podium was center against the furthest wall from the entrance.
I handed off Landen to Endy and stood at the stage, glad that it took a few minutes to get everyone gathered so I could calm myself and relax.
Once everyone was gathered, I called for the chatter to cease, waiting for the noise to die down before I continued. I did not know what subject to bring up first, but decided on the issue involving the odd atmosphere in the guild.

"Attention everyone," I began. "I am aware that negative emotions have seem to become contagious within this guild for the past hour or so with seemingly no explanation aside from..." I paused, remembering what some of the other magi had said. I had felt it around Drake before in the past but that was long ago. I almost did not recognize it.

"Dark magic."

"Dark magic?" People in the crowd repeated, most if not all of them unfamiliar with the dreadful snare that is the result of black magic. "How could this happen?", "Who would use such a repulsive magic?", "Dark magic is forbidden, how would anyone use it?" All of those questions and more found their way through the mouths of those in the crowd.

I did not know how to answer those questions myself. They began looking around to one another, as if someone among them were responsible for the darkness we were eloped in. I had to yell to get everyone to quiet down and to relax for the most part. I knew that at that moment, they would be looking to me for a solution.

I continued. "If anyone has used dark magic recently, you should be able to feel a shift in their natural aura, making it much darker than usual.

Someone called from the seated crowd. "With all of this dark magic around, it's difficult enough as is to sense regular aruas."

Once more, I carried on. "I am aware, however if we can get rid of the magic in the environment, auras should once again become easier to sense. Pay attention to that in others and begin putting light magic sigils around the guild, this should block out any unpleasant spells."

What if the traitor was in this room? What if I had given away all of our plans? My stomach felt weak, as if I would vomit if this anxiety became any worse. As they began to get up in order to place the sigils around the guild, I called out to stop them. I flinched from my own voice cracking, rather it be from the emotions I felt or the hesitation in bringing up my true reasons for being here.

"There's something else I want to say, something more personal that I hope you will listen to and understand. It's not a demand, but instead an ask for your help." Gradually, I was able to pull their attention back towards myself.

"Drake, the right hand man of emperor Grayson and my spouse, has been poisoned with witches blood, a poison used to killed demons and monsters. I apologize for the unprofessionalism but I ask for your help in finding a cure however and whenever it is of your own convenience."

My own fingers were trembling, chest tightening with anticipation to know how everyone would react. Many had no reaction, getting up and leaving to pursue their own interest or begin securing the building with sigils. Others rolled their eyes, or his their condolences in the gleams of their eyes. One in particular questioned why they should put focus into helping Drake when there was more pressing issues to focus on, such finding the culprit who infected the guild with toxic magic or helping those who are taking on high ranked requested missions. I admit, he was right. I felt more bias, selfish... I should not have felt like that when Drake's life was on the line.

Endy stepped in, coming to my defense. "Lalea is trying to save a life! She isn't asking too much of you, nor is she demanding you to take the time out of your day to help. She is only asking you to put in an effort to save the life of a husband and father. It's up to you."

A smile stretched on my face, however weak it may have been. With my voice low, I thanked Endy, listening to the other magi joining in on a cheer of determination to help in anyway that they could, the man who had asked the question originally now standing and leaving to a different room. Was I being selfish? Was it wrong for me to be asking so much of them when they had other matters they could have been focusing on? A part of me did regret ever asking for their help, but it was too late, the plea had already come forth.
Everyone dispersed from our meeting, joining in the effort of casting spells to be rid of the dark magic lingering in the guild, guessing with suspicion and fear as what could have caused it. Could this be a case like with Dante? Could we have a traitor in our ranks? If so, what were they planning?
Endy, the girls and I stayed and helped with securing the guild for awhile. Out of the corner of my eyes, I repeatedly saw shifting in the shadows, constant chills running up my body as if eyes in the distance were settled upon me. When I would lol around, occasionally there would be another mage or one of the kids or Endy glancing at me, however other times it appeared that no one was gazing in my direction. I felt odd, focusing on auras that I could barely sense yet I could pluck out a few here and there, finding no signs of dark magic usage. Did the traitor flee? Whoever had done this, why target this place? What did they intend to truly do?

Third person point of view-

The demon watched from it's vessel, masking it's own darkened energy. That blue haired mage...so over confident in her own abilities. It followed the two magi and their children, being sure to attempt to blend in as well as possible whenever their eyes rested it's way. The crows rested on the window sill watching with their blood red eyes. It could not wait much longer, getting closer his victims while slowly shedding it's vessel, ignoring the gasps and screams of those around him. Lalea spun on her heels upon hearing the commotion rising around her and feeling an aura shift, gasping in utter shock and horror as the demon lept from it's body, lunging at her precious daughter.
The windows began to shatter, the crows bursting into the guild,quickly changing their weak forms to those that were much more formidable, growing tall with wings,descending down onto the morals. Screams erupted from every room,the magi quick to act to defend themselves,magic filling the air like that of a light show. Two were struck down with haste, however the demons continued to descend, their screeches causing a majority of the magi's ears to ring painfully. Lalea tried to reach out to pull her daughter away from the silver eyed monster, freezing up with the sudden pain that swarmed across her body, burning like fire. Lalea forced her eyes open, noticing a lack of blood forming despite feeling as if numerous wounds were ripping into her flesh. Another fact came to realization, the pain she felt was coming from her scars that she had received in battle years ago.
In Lalea's weakness, left screaming in pain, the demon grasped Landen by the arm with it's sharp claws digging into the child's delicate skin. Landen screamed and cried out not only in pain, but in panic and fear to watch her mother falling to her knees in agony. The demon yanked the child away, fleeing down the hall.

"Landen!"

Lalea pushed down the pain, forcing herself to stand up onto her feet, ignoring the trembling of her legs. Immediately her hands swarmed with blue light, a fear and fury mixing in her electric eyes. One of the devils forced itself between Lalea and her target, the blue haired with a raging fire in her eyes. A blue magic began to surround her body, the blue in her eyes gaining a miniscule glow that swirled around her body like a visible breeze. The demon towered over her, screeching with its red eyes releasing blood like liquid, swiping a claw to pierce her flesh. The head mage pushed her arms forward, a bright blue light bursting forth, the demon evaporating like mist in the path of her unchanneled spell before it's arm could even lower for the attack.
Lalea spent not a single second thinking of anything but saving her only beloved child, dashing to rescue her as soon as possibly. The demon dodged multiple magic attacks that spend its way, the creature fleeing into the large library, seeking sanctuary from those attempting to slay the beast. Landen cried out and screamed for her mother and Endy to help her, the demon taking no precaution in keeping her quite as it lingered. Lalea follow, taking out every demon in her path with little examination of the chaos occuring around her.
A bright crimson light began to shine from the monster, Landen screaming as the world began to fade and shift to another, to one of barren land and desolation. What was that place? Before the demon could teleport away, magi, including Lalea herself, went in for the attack with the other demons now vanquished. The demon cried out, desperately trying to get away, flying up into the air with the child in its grasp. Once in the air, the demon vanished as it was struck by one of Lalea's own light attacks, none fatal to humans as to not harm her daughter, as did the child vanish with one last cry.

"Mommy!"

Lalea froze in her place, eyes locked onto the spot with a gasp slipping past her teeth. She would have screamed out her loved ones name if the breath had not been stripped from her lungs at that very moment. Landen... Further on did the tears develop on her eyes, quickly following the trail already running down her rosy cheeks. She's...

"Mommy!" A breath of air finally entered her lungs as she gasped once more, her heart skipping a beat.

Lalea glanced to where the sound of the voice seemed to be coming from, aghast to see Landen sitting on top of a tall bookshelf, holding onto it as is scared to fall. The child's face was covered in tears, blushed red all around with eyes twinkling distress.

"Landen!" Lalea called out with a smile spreading from cheek to cheek, outstretching her arms, asking for her to come down.

The child cautiously lowered herself enough, with the help of Lalea's telekinesis, to be greeted by her mother's warm, loving embrace which held the girl tightly as if they would never let go. Lalea tried to keep herself from sobbing, but it was impossible with the thought that she had nearly lost her only child right before her eyes. Landen clung to her mother, a sense of comfort and security replacing the fear. They closed their eyes, welcoming the others loving touch, grateful to have the other beside them. At that moment, no mother and daughter could ever love each other and be as thankful for one another as then.

"H-how did you-?" Lalea could hardly speak, her overwhelming emotions drowning out her abilities to form full sentences.

Landen giggled softly past her small hiccups and whimpers. "I teleported! Just like daddy taught me."

Despite the conditions in which it had occurred, Lalea felt pride in knowing that her daughter could do such a thing at her young age. Never had she been as grateful to have Landen be part Enderman than at that moment. Past the tears, a small chuckle rose from her, combing a hand through Landen's soft hair.

"I'm so proud of you baby girl."

She felt a liquid soaking into her dress, looking down to see the blood leaving from the wound on her daughter's arm caused by the demon. She called out for someone to get medical supplies, a few magi going to get a health potion and bandages.

"Why did it go after Landen?" Jane questioned, the other magi beside Endy now spreading out and searching for anymore of the abominable foes.

Lalea opened her mouth, now too dry to even get herself to speak, simply placing her chin on Landen's shoulder. Endy began to suggest that perhaps they targeted Landen because she was the smallest one in the building and therefore the easiest to pick off.
No matter the excuse, Lalea refused to allow it to happen again.
---

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