《Begin the End》


 1-The Key of Death

    He swung the key in front of my face. The rusty metal, spinning on its string. A hypnotic dance, the world seemed to slow as I watched it turn. My eyes were caught following it, stuck in disbelief. It couldn''t be...


    Carrick didn''t say anything, he didn''t have to. Even in my drunken stupor, I couldn''t forget the songs. The key, echoing the melody of a tempting legend.


    Legend was maybe the wrong word. The story, not distant history. It contained no theatrical embellishment. I was there that day, a witness. Its creation, captured within my memory.


    The key that kept the dead from the living. Unlocking the very gate of hades, sheol, death; whatever name inspired more fear. I wouldn''t have believed it if I hadn''t seen it. It was the one thing that promised me a chance.


    A chance to bring her back.


    I grabbed after it, Carrick pulling the string away. "Tsk, tsk, tsk, not so hasty Alexander." His words were cloudy in my head, mocking my attempts. Holding it out just beyond me.


    "Carrick!" I growled, clumsily reaching after it. His laugh, leading me further away. I followed the carrot on a stick, falling from my stool.


    "You Bastard¡­" My voice ran raw, a new desperation."Give it to me!" I rubbed my head, trying to stand.


    "Now why would I do that?"


    "It¡¯s your fault she''s dead." My voice cracked as I stumbled after him. I fought with each step.


    "Yes and don''t you want to get her back?" He smiled at his question, dangling the key above me.


    "I hate you." My words came out slurred. I tripped, falling back to the floor.


    Carrick nodded, losing his grin. "That''s understandable."


    I squirmed, trying to stand. He leaned down, studying me. "I almost feel bad about it, you look so...pathetic."


    "Shut up."


    "The mighty hero Alexander Wren, drinking himself to death. That''s one for the songs."If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    I pulled myself up, locking a glare. "Once this wears off I''m gonna kick your sorry as-"


    "Not if you want to get Gloria back."


    My gut took a violent lurch at her name. He had no right to use it. No right to speak it aloud.


    "I won''t play your games Carrick."


    He studied my eyes, shrugging, starting towards the door.


    "If you won''t do it then it''s your fault she''s dead."


    His words came with a biting guilt, I couldn''t breathe. I couldn''t think. Her wide fearful eyes, haunting me. I could still hear her pleas, her small voice begging to live as the air left her lungs. She was so afraid to die.


    "You have no right!" I hissed, clenching my fists. I lunged at him, Carrick stepping back. I landed smack against the wall. Aching as I struggled to turn.


    He stared down at me with disapproval.


    "Please just think for a moment."


    The room was spinning, he was spinning. I couldn''t stay upright, collapsing back on the floor.


    Carrick sighed, "Don''t you love her more than you hate me?"


    I choked on my tears, staring at the key in his hand. How could he taunt me like this? After all he did.


    "Don''t you want to see her smile again? Feel her skin under your fingertips. Taste her kisses on your tongue?"


    "Don''t you dare talk about her!" I cried out, struggling to breathe.


    He frowned, "Why? Does remembering her bother you?"


    "You''re trying to manipulate me." I spat, clawing at the ground. I tried to crawl away. He stood, blocking my path. The corners of his mouth stretched out in a grin.


    "You help me get the Gate and I help you get Gloria. It¡¯s as simple as that."


    "You''re sick, twisted, evil..." I hissed my words, they faded off.


    "Is that a yes?"


    "How about I just kill you and get her back myself." I tightened my fists, glaring up at him.


    Carrick broke out in laughter, "Do you know how the gate works? Or even how to go about pulling someone back?"


    I dropped my eyes to the ground, my mind drifting. A panic rising in my chest. I was at his mercy.


    Loosening my fists, I hung my head. This was so messed up.


    "The second I have the chance, I will betray you."


    A sick excitement in his eyes, Carrick pulled me to my feet. "I wouldn''t have it any other way Alexander."


    He motioned for me to follow, pulling me along. My focus, muddy as I regretted every step. I was walking right into his trap. Letting him pull my strings for a second time. I knew he''d get what he wanted. I knew he''d leave me with the blame. It scared me how easily he got me to follow. Marching to my ruin with desperate abandon.


    "I hate you." I mumbled through my blurry vision. His arms, helping me walk steady.


    "Yes, yes, I know." His voice was strangely sympathetic. He kept his eyes forward, fixed on his goal.


    "You''re free to keep hating me Alexander, as long as you''ll do anything to succeed."

 2- Bad Omen

    "I used to admire you, just a little." Carrick''s voice came pounding through my headache. The jolting motion of the wagon made it feel worse. He kept his hands steady driving the horses.


    "From washed up minstrel to valiant hero, almost overnight. I was impressed, till I learned your secret. You lost my respect after that."


    I narrowed my eyes, "I''m more deserving than you."


    Carrick shrugged, "I worked for everything that I have."


    "Had." I corrected, giving him a devilish smirk.


    "Yes, had, but I will do it again. Build myself back to where I was. I''m not afraid of the work."


    "Oh yes, because you''re all about principles. Be honest with yourself Carrick, this is because the waters gifted me and not you." I laid my head on the edge of the cart, finding it difficult to keep my head up.


    Carrick''s eyes locked forward, his jaw stiff. "I don''t need the power of a magical fountain to rise above and take what I want."


    "No? Then tell me where the gate comes from?"


    His eyes lit up in rage, "That''s different and you know it."


    "Sure¡­" I let my voice trail off. I shut my eyes for a moment. The countryside moving along with the wagon. A familiar landscape, rolling meadows still imprinted in my mind.


    "Where are we going anyway?"


    He loosened his glare, "Omen, where else."


    I frowned, sitting back up. "Gregori didn''t move it?"


    Carrick darted his eyes over, "No...after everything happened he left it in the city. Aside from those who guard it, everyone else is gone."


    His words left a hollow feeling in my chest. I couldn''t imagine the streets of Omen empty, it created a strange fear in me. Almost worse than that last day. No, nothing was worse than that day. It was proof we were all damned.


    "I need another drink." I growled. Carrick''s eyes laughing at me, "You already drowned yourself in ale. I need you sober."


    I shook my head, "I don''t care what you need. I want to forget." I buried my face in my arm, trying to muffle the headache.Support the author by searching for the original publication of this novel.


    "You''re useless if you''re drunk. I might as well have dragged any hapless vagrant along." Carrick spat.


    "I know¡­it just doesn''t make it easier." I muttered dully. A growing dread about going back. I wasn''t ready for this.


    "Here, this might make you feel better." Carrick leaned back tossing off the blanket cover. I looked over his shoulder, the familiar wood craven instrument finding its way into my hands.


    "My lute..." I gave a wisp of a smile. Dragging my fingers across the strings, a light note ringing out. I looked back up at Carrick''s nervous eyes. I set the lute down on my lap, his expression easing.


    "You know I don''t technically need it though right?" I smirked at him, feeling a sliver closer to myself. It was good to just have my instrument back with me.


    Carrick nodded, "Of course, but the idea of you singing through the hollow halls of the palace seems unnecessarily eerie."


    I almost laughed, "Yes I suppose so. How many guards are we expecting?"


    Carrick shrugged, "Hard to say. A dozen, maybe two."


    "Hmm." I hummed, cradling my instrument in my arms. Depending on how they were spaced out, it could be tricky. The faster I could get most of them within ear shot, the better.


    "So I take the guards out for you, then what?" I looked to Carrick before putting the lute back, slipping the cover over it.


    "Then we find the Gate." Carrick''s eyes brightened, a slight smile on his lips. I scowled, hating his awe.


    "Why are you so obsessed with it?"


    The shine dimmed as he sighed. "The Gate is my life''s work. I pushed beyond what anyone thought possible. It represents a whole new frontier of magic. Power unlike anything we''ve ever seen!" His words grew faster, the light returning to his eyes. It made me sick.


    "Just at the cost of people''s lives.The cost of Gloria''s life!"


    Carrick''s expression fell. He opened his mouth hesitating. "If I had one regret it would be her. She didn''t deserve to die."


    "You''re right, she didn''t." I growled back, turning my head away from him.


    "I didn''t intend to kill her, Alexander. I didn''t intend to kill any of them." He glared at me, the cart hitting a bump that made my stomach lurch. I tightened my hands on the edge, holding myself steady.


    Carrick''s face turning an angry red. "How was I supposed to know that would happen?" His voice grew more frustrated. I sat forward, staring dully at him.


    "Would you really have done differently if you knew?"


    Carrick pursed his lips, looking away. His silence was damning. I lowered eyes, my head feeling heavy. "That''s why I can never forgive you."


    He cleared his throat, offering no reply. The hooves of the horses filling the silence. It was good he shut his mouth, I was sick of hearing his voice.


    Meadow morphing into forest, we were getting close. The city rising out of the horizon, visible between the trees. The same city I once called home, but it was hardly recognizable. The air, stolen from my lungs as I watched the travesty. Somehow it looked worse in the daylight.


    A dead ring of grass around the city, separating it from the distant forest landscape. The once lush trees black like charcoal, twisted branches pointing out at the sky. Everything was dead or dying. I fought back shivers as we approached. It was too quiet. I didn''t like the silence.


    Carrick stopped the wagon, tightening the reins. "What''s done is done Alexander. Just focus on getting Gloria back, that''s all that matters." He kept his posture stiff, something wavering in his eyes. He loosened the reins, the horses started walking again. Heading straight towards the city, that cursed city, Omen.

 3-Symphony

    The cold wind howling through the empty streets. I tried not to focus on the deathly aura of this place or the shivers running down my spine. I needed to stay alert.


    Lute in hand, the grand palace cast a dark shadow over us. Carrick stood cautiously behind, his cowardice leaking past his pride.


    The city might be desolate, but King Gregori wouldn''t leave the Gate behind if it wasn''t secure. Not as long as people like Carrick breathed.


    I frowned watching Carrick rip off the corner of one of his sleeves. Breaking it in two, he stuffed the fabric in his ears. I snorted at the action. He was still afraid of me.


    Carrick glared at my smirk, stepping forward. Pulling open the large doors before us. They creaked loudly, the metal making an ugly sound.


    He paused at the entrance, waiting. "Are you going to enter?" Carrick grumbled, a stiff impatience. I nodded, still caught staring at the doorway.


    I wasn''t afraid, I didn''t know what this feeling was. The world felt hazy, unreal. Like I was walking into a dream. I wouldn''t think about it too much, stay present. I would focus on my song.


    I placed my fingers on the different strings, letting the first note ring out. A familiar energy running across my fingers. I forgot how much I missed this.


    The sound echoed down the corridor, bouncing off the walls. I shut my eyes and breathed, the power building in my veins.


    I picked another note, stepping inside. Carrick''s lips stuck in a fine line. He followed in behind me.


    I didn''t have to worry about choosing a song, there was only one song that seemed fitting. I wrote this song for her.


    Listening carefully, I let my steps play out the rhythm. The first sounds of life, walking, shuffling down the hall. Coming to join my song.


    Confused voices turning to fear. Fear, becoming organized shouts.


    I smirked, my song taking shape.Yes, come closer. I was drunk on power, I would bring them all down.


    Carrick followed at a distance, anticipating what would happen next. I stopped at the end of the hall, pausing my gentle song. I peeked an eye open in time to see the first guard running. Sword raised towards me, coming with a forceful swing. Violent eyes that failed to hide his fear.


    I drew my hand back, picking at the strings. Fast notes, strung together in rapid succession. The guard lurched, his arm swinging away. The sword sliced against the wall, scraping against the stones. He cried out as he struggled, falling to the floor.


    Another guard ran after him, looking to the soldier on the ground. As he reached him, the fallen guard swung up with the melody. His sword thrust through the new guard''s chest. Wild confusion in the young soldier''s eyes. The blade ripped back out, both of them collapsing to the floor.


    More guards coming, four, maybe five. I hummed along with the tune, stepping towards the running soldiers.


    The one leading the charge, faltered first. He sent the rest stumbling. Caught in my song, he swung his blade around after them.


    They threw themselves out of the way, blocking his loose wild strikes. I was leaving him exposed but they didn''t take advantage. A naive belief that they could save both him and themselves.If you discover this narrative on Amazon, be aware that it has been stolen. Please report the violation.


    I stepped over the bodies, a sudden tug on the edge of my pants. Turning my head, the older guard looked up at me. Tears caught in his eyes, an angry fear staring back at me. I recognized his face, I had fought alongside him once.


    "...Why Alexander?" His voice slowed my song, breaking through my fever. My mind, catching up to the melody.


    He looked at me as if I was a monster. I found it a strange reaction. Once he cheered, they all cheered, for this same gift. Now that it was against them, he was horrified?


    I kicked his hand away, continuing forward. He had no right to judge me. My motive was more noble than war.


    Six or seven now, freed from my song. I was quick to bring them all back. Turning from me, to each other. Metal clashing violently, as my puppets danced. Their resistance, a gentle poke against the power of my melody.


    Blood splatter flicked across the walls. I walked around the mess, ducking around the fighting. Every step, stab, block, death; they were a part of my symphony.


    "Don''t you want to sing along?" I grinned at a wide-eyed Carrick. He struggled to push through, choppy against the timing.


    "I forgot how twisted your sense of humor is." He frowned at me, a slight tone of disgust.


    I shrugged, continuing on. I wasn''t trying to be funny. One day he''d join my song and I''d kill him just the same.


    He followed as we marched to the staircase. Behind us, a trail of bodies. The notes of my song, written in blood.


    Guilt creeping in as I slowed my playing. I refused to look back. It was a necessary cost. I was willing to go as far beyond sacrificing my own soul. Virtue wouldn''t help me get her back. I would do whatever it takes.


    Climbing the steps, I kept my fingers on the strings. Better cautious than dead. I started a few notes, interrupting the quiet.


    Slow weighted footsteps, climbing higher and higher. We reached the top, both of us stuck at the door.


    My stomach, sick with anticipation. What would it feel like to see her again? Did I dare let myself imagine. I was so close.


    Carrick readied his arm on the handle. I gave him a nod as he swung the door open.


    Eight spears pointing in our direction. The men holding them, shaking like leaves. Their resolve, not strong enough to resist the song.


    I strummed a starting note, the power flooding back. They flew apart, spiraling. Carrick''s laugh, ringing out from behind me.Their wild swoops being pulled into the rhythm.


    Quick staccato notes, every spear finding a mark. Cries ringing out, each taking their cue.


    A haunting song, fueled by my own desperation. Death from their own weapons, blood pooling on the floor.


    I walked past, more focused on the mirror set against the wall.


    My song slowly faded out as I stared at it. A large circle of perfect glass. It reflected a strange light over the room. The real world and the mirror world in seamless collision. A large chain ran across it, a padlock rusted, the same as the key.


    We had reached it, the Gate of Death.


    Carrick tracked bloody footsteps as he walked closer, "Isn''t it just the most beautiful thing?" He whispered. I didn''t answer him. I refused to admit something so destructive was beautiful.


    "Well go on then, open it." Carrick pulled out a string from his pocket, the key spinning off it.


    I stared at him hesitantly. He was going to just hand it over? He held it out, raising his eyebrows. I took a breath, setting down my lute.


    Cautiously reaching out for it, I took the key from him. The rusted metal, offering its promise.


    I walked closer to the gate. My eyes wide in anticipation, standing in front of the clear reflection. Lifting the lock, I turned the key. The click starting my heart. So excited I couldn''t breathe. This was real. I was here, I could save her.


    Looking past the lock, my image in the mirror changed. Battered and bloody, I was barely standing. The light, empty from my eyes. My mouth was slack open, a twisted bitter smile. As if happy to die.


    I stumbled back, choking on the image. My vision spinning as I looked back for Carrick. The door slammed shut, the sound echoing through the room. A panic rising in my chest, he left me here. He ran away¡­why?


    I flicked my head back, staring into the mirror. Another image forming, a shadowy figure, waiting on the reflection''s edge.


    I wasn''t alone here. Someone was in the mirror.

 4- The Gate

    I stared at the shadow in the mirror, squinting, trying to see. Desperately hoping the figure in the mirror was her. I couldn''t get a good view, the light shining in my eyes.


    I stepped closer, something moving deeper in the mirror. A sea, far off. A rhythm-like movement, ebbing and flowing in the background. I blinked, pushing forward, the outline sticking out against it.


    A tall figure in a cloak, the hood hiding their face. It wasn''t her. The thought, maddening. My lip quivered as I stood before the cloaked figure.


    Tilting his head, he pointed a skinny finger at me. "Wren...Alexander...Wren." The voice that came out was strange. Somehow scratchy and smooth at the same time. Sharp, almost song-like.


    "Who are you?" I struggled to speak, my voice caught in nerves.


    The cloaked figure lowered his hand."The Guardian of the Gate, who else would I be?" He announced dully.


    Was I supposed to understand what that meant? I stepped forward, feeling braver. "Do you know why I''m here?"


    "Why you''re here is unimportant. You cannot go farther."


    Anger rising in my chest, "I must go farther! I won''t give up, not if I can save her!" I cried out, my voice creating ripples through the mirror.


    "Save her¡­" The Guardian murmured, "...what a strange way to put it." His words stilled me, sending shivers down my spine.


    "Nevertheless I cannot let you pass. Souls must not leave the mirror." The Guardian kept his voice cold.


    My lips slipped into a grin, "I see...so it is possible." My eyes rested on the mirror bladed sword hanging over the mantle.


    "I wouldn''t act so rash little Wren." He followed my eyes to the sword.


    I shook my head, "This isn''t rash, this is my path."


    "Then your path is on your hands."


    He lowered his head. I gawked at him as the Guardian spun. His cloak, fanning out, morphing till it took on a new shape.


    He grew into a huge scaly beast. Great taloned claws scratched at the ground. A hideous snarl, teeth, sharper than spears. A pair of flaming gold eyes locked on mine.


    I stumbled back, running for the sword. I reached after it desperately, freeing it from the wall.


    In a swing, I turned, watching the beast pass through the Gate. Shimmering scales, he grinned his hideous teeth at me. I pointed the blade at him with desperate fear.


    Stomping into the room, his foot landed on my lute. The crack of the broken frame and the sound of snapping strings. I blinked in shock, a sudden rage.


    Before I knew it I was running at him, yelling. The metal clashing against the scales, sending me flying back. Stumbling away from his sharp teeth. His tail whipped back, knocking me off of my feet.


    I quickly stumbled back up. Quick breaths to gather my composure. I had to use my head. I wouldn''t last long if I didn''t.


    I ran fast, darting purposefully through the room. I had to keep him moving. The beast roared, spinning after me. Slow and clumsy steps, I readied my blade. I just had to get one good strike on his underbelly. Find flesh not covered in thick scales.


    I jumped under the beast''s tail, running around. Right under his head, skidding away from vicious teeth. He turned fast, lifting up his taloned claw.


    I laughed inside, he was falling for my trap. Running back in with a violent swipe. My blade crashed against hard scales, sparks breaking in the friction.


    I stared dumbfound, falling back. A laughing roar from the creature. He didn''t have a weak spot. Stolen from its rightful author, this tale is not meant to be on Amazon; report any sightings.


    He kicked me away with his clawed foot, sending me stumbling back. The sword fell from my grip. I struggled to stand, the sweat sticking to me.


    The beast licked its lips, looking at me with hungry eyes. I searched frantically for my weapon. Spotting it, I skidded over. Picking back up the sword, I set my sights back to him.


    I swung madly, the beast pausing his chase. I hit his scales, striking them with as much power as I could muster. A slight crack breaking, I laughed in surprise. I had a chance.


    My laugh stopped as I realized the creature was just staring at me. Bored golden eyes, smiling down with a wide toothy grin.


    I gulped, trying to run away. The beast biting after me. His teeth caught my clothes. He lifted me up, swinging me by my shirt. My vision was shaky as the blood rushed to my head. I didn''t have time to cry out. With one quick swoop he threw me against the wall.


    The wind knocked out of my lungs, I tried to gasp for air. Tears stinging my eyes as I tried to get up, falling back to the ground. My ribs hurt, I could barely breathe. I stayed on the floor, staring at the ceiling. I didn''t have any strength left in me.


    I failed. I failed Gloria.


    My vision blurry as the beast''s snarl drooled over me. Wildfire eyes burning, ready to consume me. There were worse ways to die.


    I shut my eyes, thinking of that day. Smokey ash sticking to the air, desperate shouts. Screaming sobs as fate decided who and who not to take. A sick twisted atonement for a sin that wasn''t theirs.


    Gloria''s violent gasps for air, the plague riddled through her body. I got there just in time to watch her die. To hold her in her last moments, offer a parting song. Just an ordinary funeral dirge, the best my mind could come up with at the moment. She deserved better.


    I found myself humming it now. The simple tune slipping out of my lips, I slowly sang the melody. Something calming about sharing the same parting song. The melody eased my soul.


    A strange hiss sent my eyes open, the beast staring down at me with an empty expression. He didn''t move.


    I blinked, wiping a string of drool from my forehead. I let my voice fade off, the fire lighting back in the creature''s eyes. Panicked, I quickly restarted the song. The light once again left his eyes.


    Shaking, I carefully crawled away. Trying to keep my voice steady as I stood. I hadn''t expected my gift to work against such a creature, especially not like this. He was petrified against my song.


    I found my sword on the floor, repeating the mournful tune over. Walking over to the creature, I hesitated. I didn''t know if the stillness would last. It didn''t much matter if it did, I couldn''t sing forever.


    I searched for the nick I made in the armor. Finding the spot, I slashed at it. Swinging back at the damage with forceful strikes. In a few strikes, the crack split, the scale shattering. I bit back a laugh, careful to not interrupt my song.


    I went for the mortal wound, stabbing the sword into the beast''s flesh.The enormous monster''s body collapsed under my blade. Folding down like fabric, it spun back into a cloak.


    The Guardian pinned down on the floor, my blade stuck through his abdomen.


    I blinked in shock, the guardian staring up at me with wild eyes. The same burning gold fire as the beast.


    He laughed weakly, his voice strained. "You...fool...I don''t protecting the dead from the living...I protect the living from the dead."


    "What?" I muttered, the fire fading from his eyes. I let go of the sword, falling by his side.


    "What do you mean?! Answer me!" I grabbed his shoulders, shaking him.The light empty from his eyes, I would get no answer. He was gone.


    A far off sound, turned my attention upwards. The sea in the mirror was moving faster. Chaotic, an almost angry movement.


    Wait...were they...souls?


    I frowned at the realization, dragging the dead guardian over. His dead eyes looking up me blankly. I got a better grip of his cloak and threw his body back in the mirror.


    Taking a breath, I stared out at the ocean of souls. The huge torrent posing a problem. How would I find Gloria in such a sea?


    As if to answer my despair, a tune wafted to my ears. A light feminine voice, growing in volume.The song, the same one I was singing earlier, the funeral dirge.


    I blinked back tears forming in my eyes. That voice, I knew it well. It was Gloria.


    A wispy translucent figure, delicate and petite. Her outline unmistakably.


    "Gloria?" I whispered in awe.


    She stopped her song, seeming to notice me through the mirror. Her big bright eyes, shining back at me. I lost all words, I could have stared at her forever.


    "...Alexander¡­. Alex." She mouthed as if remembering.


    I wiped a tear off my cheek, nodding my head. "Yes...I''m here to save you Gloria. I''m here to bring you back."


    She stared at me as if confused by the idea. A slight frown, she blinked, hesistanting.


    "Gloria...please." I held out my hand to her. She stared at it for a second, cautiously reaching back. I took hold of her hand, pulling her from the mirror.

 5- Seeing Ghosts

    A sudden ripping cold sensation ran through my fingers down my spine. I gasped in shock, stepping back. My eyes, wide, staring back at me in the mirror.


    Everything felt foggy, heavy. I couldn''t think, I couldn''t understand what was going on. What was this feeling? Like my thoughts were being peeled back, shoved down, rearranged. This didn''t make sense.


    The door slowly opened, Carrick poking his head in. His beady eyes, scanning the room as he cautiously walked inside. I shuttered out wordless spit at him, trying to get his attention. He needed to help me.


    "I don''t understand, it should have worked!" Carrick hissed. I blinked up at him, gaping. Turning, he examined the mirror,  "The key should be all you needed to pull her back from the dead." His voice was severe, his brow knit in a frown.


    I stared dumbfounded, the anger in his eyes growing. He grabbed at my collar, "What did you do wrong Alexander?" Shaking me, he looked for an answer. My memories shuffling back, I still couldn''t form words. My brain was screaming. He gave up, sending me stumbling back. Scowling as he turned back to his reflection.


    "Wait...I''m dead?"


    Her voice rang through my own thoughts. Beautiful, strange, out of place. I gagged,  I couldn''t breathe. This was wrong.


    "Alex you brought me back from the dead?"


    Her voice sounded angry. I didn''t  understand why. I couldn''t string my thoughts together beyond perception. This wasn''t making sense.


    She slipped into my view, her ghostly silhouette staring down at me. "What were you thinking Alex? Don''t you know what you''ve done?"


    "I had to save you." I managed to whisper. Carrick glanced over at my words, suspiciously studying me.


    Her eyes turned to fire, latching her cold fingers around my neck. "Save me? This is what you call saving me?"


    My eyes grew wide, "I couldn''t fail you again-" Choking on my words, I collapsed, caught in her stranglehold.


    "You just don''t get it, do you." She hissed in my ear. A constricting pressure as she tightened her fingers on my neck. I gagged, coughing, desperate for air.


    I looked up to Carrick for help. He didn''t move, staring down at me like an experiment. "What are you doing Alexander?" He questioned, his tone annoyed.


    "And he doesn''t get it either." She smirked, a strange fever in her eyes.


    "Stop...Gloria¡­" I gasped.


    "Prime examples of mortal hypocrisy." She released her grip, relief flooding me as I breathed. Her wispy silhouette floating towards Carrick. Still reminiscent of the girl I loved, the girl I desperately loved.


    She walked around Carrick, studying him. He kept his eyes on me, not seeing the ghostly soul stalking him. "You both should know better than to bring back the dead." She spoke softly, a sorrow stuck in her eyes.


    Carrick sighed, growing frustrated with my silence. I couldn''t warn him if I wanted to.


    "At least your only sin was loving me. He has done worse." She tightened her fists, "He wanted the power of God. Now all this is his fault. What is coming is his fault."


    "What do you mean what''s coming?" I asked her over my thoughts. The look in her eyes, scaring me worse than any of this. "Gloria!" I cried out, trying to crawl closer.


    "You won''t be able to understand Alex." Her voice broke to a vulnerable tone. I couldn''t help but stare at her, that same wide-eyed look I knew too well.


    "What are you seeing Alexander?" Carrick asked, more sternly. If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Gloria turned, a grin widening across her face, "Do you want to tell him or should I?" My eyes fixed in horror as she stepped back to me. "I can." She shrugged.


    A sudden cold sensation ripping through my being, sending me spiralling into shock. I let out a gasp, my breath leaving me. I tried to fight it, the confusion messing with my head.


    "He''s seeing ghosts. Isn''t this what you expected-" I moved my hands over my mouth, Gloria''s words slipping out before I could stop them.


    Carrick stepped back, a gleam of curiosity in his eyes. "Gloria¡­?" He whispered. My hands shook as they moved away from covering my mouth. I watched in horror, as I sat up, facing him.


    "Yes Carrick, I''m here with Alex now." She spoke through my lips, moving my limbs. My mind, consumed with panic. I wasn''t in control. I couldn''t move, this was suffocating. I hated this, why was she doing this?


    My own laugh rang out, scaring me, "Are you really going to complain about being controlled, Alex. When your whole gifting is controlling others?"


    I was stunned by her words. I didn''t know how to respond. It sounded so out of character for Gloria, so caustic.


    Carrick stared in wonder, pure excitement brimming from his eyes. "This is incredible¡­" He murmured.


    Gloria forced a grin, "Yes, well next time you want to bring a soul back, bring another body. It¡¯s a bit cramped in here."


    "Noted." Carrick laughed, "It''s good to have you back Gloria."


    She scratched my head, "Ah yes...back. Time is a funny thing isn''t it?" Gloria made me hop back to my feet. Carrick gawked at her comment, his smile falling.


    "I can see you haven''t changed." She pointed at the mirror, walking closer to it. Carrick blinked, quickly stepping in front of her, "Gloria-"


    "What are you afraid of? Do you really think the little naive princess is going to undo all your plans?" Her amusement, bleeding through. I didn''t know what to do.


    I caught the shine of the mirror from behind Carrick''s head, the angry sea of souls spinning in a feverish motion. A violent chaos rolling closer, fast approaching the edge.


    I panicked, pushing back against the suffocating weight, trying to gain control. I fought with all my will, spinning against the force. My vision blurry as I tried to recenter it. We didn''t have time for this. I shoved back against her soul. Gloria stumbling away from me, spinning, she looked dazed.


    I threw Carrick out of the way, desperately grasping for the chains. I didn''t have time to explain. Wild blue wisps of limbs, reaching after us.


    I struggled to take hold of the links of metal, throwing it back around the mirror. I dropped the lock, bending to pick it up. Looking up to twisted contorted faces, I was paralyzed for a second, trembling. They stared at me with an emotion I had never seen before, almost like every emotion at once.


    I broke free from the trance in time to swing the lock through the loops, clicking it shut. The image disappeared, a simple reflection remaining. I took a breath of relief, Carrick staring at me wide-eyed.


    "What have we done¡­" I mumbled. Carrick stayed dumbfounded, silent to my question. Gloria, waiting on the edge.


    I tightened my fists. "What did you make me do, Carrick?"


    He laughed, "Made you. You''ve acted freely, at every moment."


    I stood straighter, looming over him. "Carrick." I growled.


    He gave a nervous smile, "I said I''d get her back for you and I did."


    "This isn''t what I had in mind!" I yelled, my voice echoing off the walls.


    Carrick tightened his fists."This isn''t what I had in mind either." He spat in return. Gloria watched nervously.


    "Fix this." I roared, rage stinging my eyes.


    "Yes...of course..." Carrick frowned, his eyes darting nervously. He walked around me, tapping the glass on the mirror.


    "You can fix this, can''t you?" I stuttered, my anger falling to fear.


    Carrick looked over with a guilty eye. "Possibly? I''ve never gotten this far before . I would need to do more tests." He started pacing.


    My hands shook. "If you don''t fix this I swear I''ll -"


    "Don''t get so excited, I''ll figure it out." Carrick hissed.


    "He''s merely trying to save his skin."


    Gloria drifted over, stifling a yawn. "He has no idea what he''s actually created. Turning the fountain into this abomination... I wouldn''t trust such a careless experimenter."


    I turned to her, my expression softening. "What would you suggest then?" I watched her smile at the question. Her blue eyes blinking with an unearthly glow.


    "What is she saying Alexander?" Carrick''s expression fell to panic. I ignored him, my attention fixed on Gloria.


    She tilted her head,."Let''s not waste our time with hopeless things, not when there is important work to do."


    "Important work?" I questioned. She nodded, closing the space between us.


    "Leave the madman behind."


    "I don''t understand-" She leaned closer, pressing her lips to mine. My heart skipped a beat, the whole world fading.


    "You just have to trust me Alex." Her whisper resting in my mind as reality fell to darkness.

 6- Follow The Leader

    My vision came back in blurry, I couldn''t understand what I was seeing. Staring down at a room from a bird''s eye view. People moving below. I could hear singing¡­.


    "Don''t get any ideas Alex." Gloria''s voice laughed, making my head spin. My vision, losing focus. Blurry with the dizziness. The memory flooding back.


    "Careful we don''t want to lose our balance." She cautioned. I took deeper breaths. I was crouching in the middle of a beam, some sort of tavern or community house.


    "Where are we Gloria?" I asked my question frantically. I couldn''t remember how I got here. I didn''t know how much time had passed. The last thing I remembered was her kiss¡­


    "It doesn''t matter Alex. It''s not the ''where'' we''re interested in, but the ''who''." She steadied my hands on the beam.


    "What do you mean who?" My question, answered by the swinging of a door. A short woman in a cloak sent the room to silence. Bright white hair like snow, not a wrinkle on her earthy coloured skin. Her red eyes burned across the room, sweeping across, warning the world like a siren.


    Avis, the Prophetess. We both recognized the undeniable force was standing below us.


    My hands started shaking, "Gloria you can''t be serious." I hissed out loud. She clamped a hand over my mouth. "Quiet, we don''t want her to know we''re here yet." I nodded, my hand slowly moving back to keep balance.


    The people moved to the edges, chairs sliding. Some people walked out of the tavern, the bravest moving to the edges. The bartender cowered in the corner, she sighed, scowling at him. She hopped over the counter, pouring her own drink.


    "She''ll tear us to shreds." I tightened my fingers on the edge. Gloria laughed, "You''re scared of Avis?"


    I frowned, pointing at the people below, "They certainly are."


    "They don''t know what I know." She made me stand, balancing my steps as we walked across the beam. My vision blurred again, my breath short. I watched the prophetess, shivering at her very presence. I wasn''t exactly her favorite person.


    "And what is it you know?" I asked Gloria.


    "Such a lack of trust Alex." Gloria steadied us as we stopped above her. "The Prophetess doesn''t handle surprises well." Gloria snickered, hoping off the beam before I could stop the action. My limbs screamed as we fought back and forth for control.


    It was too late. I fell, arms flailing, landing on the bar counter right in front of a pair of blazing red eyes.


    Avis jumped back, a swipe of her cape. Two daggers in her grip. A strange black metal that reminded me of volcanic rock. I always meant to ask her about it.


    She stood, arms close, ready for any attack. "Alexander Wren?" Her eyes went wide before lighting up in a rage. "Of all the snakes to crawl back, you''re the last I would''ve expected." She hissed, coming at me. I stumbled back falling off the counter, the ground stealing the air from my lungs.


    "Keep your head Alex." Gloria''s voice echoed in my head, my ears ringing. "Don''t forget your advantage."


    I looked up to Avis who peered down at me over the counter. Her eyes wide with concern. Was she worried about me?


    I stood up dusting myself off. Letting out a cough, my laugh rang out. "How about a song Prophetess?"


    Her concern faded to rage. She hopped over the counter, aiming her foot for my stomach. I landed, crashing into the back shelf. Bottles falling, crashing on the floor.


    "Don''t you dare threaten me Wren, not if you ever want to sing again." She growled, pointing her daggers to my neck. I raised my hands defensively, "So aggressive Avis, compensating because you don''t have the next few moments in mind?" My smirk, leaking out.


    Her eyes grew wide as I whistled out a short tune. Her hands wavered from the notes, I took my chance. I pushed past her, dodging the swipe of her blade. Hopping back up on the counter.


    Avis covered her ears as I cleared my throat, "Begin the end, the watchman shouts. Destroy the sun, he sings. Blackout the sky and all the stars. Erase the pain it brings."


    The verse sent strange shivers running down my spine. A power that felt intoxicating.The narrative has been taken without permission. Report any sightings.


    Avis stood, eyes wide, fighting with willful determination. It was scary how much she was able to resist its pull, but It wouldn''t save her. The stragglers in the tavern rising to their feet. She couldn''t fight both them and the song.


    I picked up a piece of a broken bottle, starting  the second verse. "Let what''s living fade away. Do not cry for souls. Come that day, when mortals die. Immortal life consoles."


    I marched after her with the shard of glass. Hands pressed against her ears, she jumped back, running away from my strikes. Trying hard to hide the fear in her eyes. She stumbled around the bar, evading my attack. Stepping back, she walked right into the growing crowd. Surrounding her, already spellbound by my song.


    "The watchman calling for our end. For turning things reverse. The fount of life, the gate of death. The scar reveals our curse."


    I sang the third verse, hanging back. She ducked around the first punches. Unable to attack with her ears covered. A swift kick from one of the ruffians, she let out a muffled hiss. Instinct kicked in and she reached for her blades.


    Her eyes wide in panic as she realized her mistake. The song slowed her motion, caught fighting the pull. She made one slash before the biggest thug sent her flying, crashing into the tables and chairs.


    I laughed, "Find the ending written in blood. There the mirror breaks. Each direction, intersection. Desire only takes."


    Avis flipped back finding her feet, the crowd surrounding her. She wasn''t looking at them though, she was staring at me. A horror fixed across her face.


    "That song...what are you singing? Do you even know what you''re singing?" Her words were quick, desperate. Fear that terrified me. I frowned, gaping, trying to remember how I knew the song. I couldn''t quite place how I knew it. I frowned, shutting my eyes. There was something I was missing.


    "Stay focused Alex!" Gloria shouted in my head. I blinked, Avis was charging me. Dodging the wild limbs of the crowd, she raised a dagger aimed for my throat.


    I quickly grabbed a cutting board off of the counter, blocking the strike.The knife stuck in the board. I stared at it, shoving her back. One dagger still in her grip, I spat out the last verse,


    "Alone we face the ending. Our dying melody. We failed to understand. Forgotten remedy."


    Avis tightened her stance, stiff resistance. She glared at me, "Keep it up Wren! Just don''t forget how I destroyed you in our last fight." My pride stung at those words. It was a humiliating memory, the legendary hero, beaten by a prophetess.


    "Don''t feel too bad she didn''t exactly fight fair." Gloria''s reassurance made it feel worse. I didn''t fight fair either.


    I rolled my eyes, "Well it seems this time we''re even." I reached out my hand, or rather Gloria did. Her actions, blending into mine.


    Avis gave a deeper frown, refusing to take my hand. "You expect me to admit defeat?"


    I laughed, smirking at her stubbornness. "I could care less about what you will admit. I can always keep singing." The fleeing bar patrons made my threat slightly less intimidating.


    She scowled crossing her arms, "What are you up to Wren?"


    Ya, what am I up to Gloria? She stayed frustratingly quiet.


    I dropped my expression, losing the smugness. "You were right, okay? Is that what you want me to say?"


    Her eyes lost some fire, "What?"


    "You were right about Carrick¡­ about what he and Gregori were doing. If I listened to you, I could''ve stopped what happened in Omen." My voice cracked with genuine regret. I meant those words.


    Her lips formed into a fine line, she tapped her fingers. "So why ambush me if that''s all you wanted to say."


    I raised my eyebrows, "Would you have listened?"


    "Well...I don''t know." She frowned, surveying the mess. "It''s still a strange way to offer an apology."


    As she looked away, I pulled out the dagger stabbed into the cutting board, slipping it beneath my sleeve. I paused at my action, a strange thing to do. Why did I take it?


    "We need it." Gloria stated calmly. My heart started racing with panic. How had she slipped in control without me noticing?


    "Wren, where did you hear that song?" Avis''s question sent my head turning. She was staring at me again, waiting for an answer. I felt trapped.


    The song wasn''t mine. The memory of it already fading, I needed to write it down. There was something terrible about it, about all of this.


    "Is it too depressing?" I raised an eyebrow,  "Maybe I''ll reconsider using it. It just seems ironic to sing about cheery things when my listeners usually die."


    Avis shook her head, "Very morbid Alexander."


    "What can I say? I haven''t changed." My laugh, echoing out in the silence.


    Avis kept her expression serious. "Are you sure you''re okay? You look...almost like...you''re on death''s door."


    The image I saw in the mirror, my dead body, flashed in my mind.


    "I''m fine really, just haven''t been sleeping much. Things have been dark since...Gloria."


    My voice trailed off, but the words felt foreign. Avis dropped her eyes, "Yes, of course." A painful silence hanging in the air. I didn''t know what to say.


    "Sorry to make such a fuss Avis." I gave a nervous grin, walking past her. Stepping over a broken chair, I headed for the door.


    "Wren," Avis''s voice stopped me in my tracks, the knife still in my sleeve. I paused, afraid she knew I had it.


    I looked back, finding her sympathetic smile, "She would''ve understood...why you couldn''t save her."


    I nodded, her words making something in me ache worse. I turned, leaving out the door, running from her pity. I wanted to forget those words. Gloria, silent in my head. I didn''t dare ask her if she understood. I couldn''t bear the answer.


    I wandered away from the tavern, a destination forming in my mind. Each step felt like mine, but it was becoming blatantly obvious that it wasn''t.

 7- With All My Heart

    I felt a sort of a high walking away from the tavern, the dagger in my gasp. I succeeded. Avis didn''t even suspect. Everything was going smoothly, the plan was in motion. Soon everything- What plan? I didn''t have a plan?


    I stopped walking, refusing my feet to go forward.


    "What''s wrong Alex?" Gloria''s voice ringing in my head


    "Your thoughts and mine¡­"


    "Are blending together. I am aware."


    My hands started shaking, my breathing shallow. "This is scaring me Gloria. You''re scaring me."


    "Would it help to see me?" Her soul pushed away, smiling back at me. She put her translucent hand on my shoulder, her long thin hair flying with the breeze. The strange blue aura she carried blending into the colour of the sky. "I know it''s overwhelming, it''s overwhelming for me too." She took my hand. "But we''re in this together."


    She pulled me forward, leading down the street. I almost tripped over my feet, looking up at the surrounding buildings. Not many people around, those who were huddled together with hushed whispers. I probably looked funny, walking visibly alone with my arm outstretched.


    I turned my attention to that arm, dried blood sticking to my skin. I pressed my fingers against it, a stinging pain. "What happened to my arm? This didn''t happen in my fight with Avis."


    "Carrick wasn''t too happy about us leaving." Gloria turned back, giving me a wary eye. I stared at her, nearly tripping again on the uneven cobblestones.


    "Are you saying we fought him? How come I don''t remember? He''s not dead, is he¡­?" I stammered my words, my arm throbbing.


    "One question at a time." Gloria kept her eyes forward. Yanking my arm, as she increased her speed.


    I pulled back. "Just tell me what happened."


    She sighed, "Yes there was a fight with Carrick.You don''t remember because I took full control. I think he''s still alive."


    I swallowed a lump in my throat, "But...I can remember stuff now?"


    "Yes, well, muscle memory or not, I don''t know how to fight well. I needed your help with Avis."


    My heart nearly stopped. "...You''re picking and choosing how much control I have?"


    She glared at me. "What are you accusing me of Alex? I didn''t decide to be here. I was happy enough resting with the dead."


    I gaped at her, the anger fading from her eyes.


    "You never asked me if I wanted to come back, maybe I would have preferred to stay. " A sadness resting on her face. She kept on walking, pulling me along.


    "What are you talking about Gloria?"


    "It''s different for me, Alex.You can go where you want, do what you want. I lived in a cage." Her voice broke.


    "I- I never even thought." I held her hand tighter.


    She laughed, smiling back at me. "You wouldn''t have noticed, always too preoccupied with proving yourself." This narrative has been purloined without the author''s approval. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    I frowned, staring at the ground. It seemed silly now, how hard I fought to be seen as anything more than a peasant.


    "I was doing it for you." I looked back up at her.


    Her eyes softened. "I know."


    I scratched my head, "Are you really saying you''d rather be dead?"


    "I don''t know," she paused, staring off. "Beyond this world, behind the gate...things are different. There is so much to know, to learn and I could see it all." A shine in her eyes.


    I felt sick to my stomach. She met my eyes, her expression resolved. "But, I won''t waste this opportunity Alex. I promise I will fix things."


    "Fix things?" I twisted my face in a frown.


    Gloria opened her mouth to answer, flicking her head around. "Did you hear that?"


    The sound of horses, a chariot. Quickly through the streets, growing louder. I pulled Gloria''s phantom with me, ducking behind a merchant''s counter. Knocking over crates, we fell in a tumble. Peeking my eyes out to the street, I watched a chariot pulled along through the street. It bore the colours of the royal family¡­


    King Gregori


    Gloria''s fingers were tight on the counter. Her expression, stiff and unreadable.  I couldn''t imagine what she was feeling.


    The chariot stopped, Gregori turning back to someone. I cranked my neck, spotting a dark horse canter behind. The rider wore a stern expression, a fresh gash across his forehead. He wore dark, silverlined over-cloak. Carrick. I hid deeper in, fearing the chaos this meeting would bring. Carrick had guts to show his face.


    Carrick got off his horse, approaching the chariot. Gregori smiled at him. The two shaking hands.


    My eyes grew wide. "What the hell?"


    They looked civil, friendly even, no sign of lasting hatred.


    Gloria gave me a worried look. "How did he manage..."


    "Have you gotten any word of that scoundrel Wren yet?" Gregori''s voice echoed through the streets. I blinked, staring at the disgusted look on his face. That was my name, he said my name.


    Carrick shrugged, "He was spotted close to here. We won''t let him get away though, not for the lives lost in Omen, not for what he orchestrated." His voice biting, as he tightened the reins.


    Carrick hung his head. "Again I feel the need to apologize for my foolishness, I should''ve never let someone like him get close enough to corrupt my thoughts."


    "He had us all fooled Carrick," Gregori said, a stupid frown aross his face.


    I knew what this meant, what Carrick was saying. Betrayal, an action so characteristic of him. I should''ve seen this coming.


    Gloria stumbled back, her face going pale. "He''s blaming you...for all of it. I can''t believe he would say that, that my father would listen to this." She tightened her fists, heading after them.


    I caught her hand, shaking my head. "No Gloria, it isn''t worth it."


    "Your gifting doesn''t work like mind control Alex! They know that, both of them."


    She frowned at me, darting her eyes between me and them."Their blind attempts at power not only killed hundreds, but shifted the very trajectory of the world." She raised her chin. "To deny responsibility, I can''t accept it."


    "Then don''t," I pulled her closer, "you said you had a plan, let''s follow it."


    Her eyes grew wide, she took both my hands, "You really want to help me Alex?"


    "With all of my heart." I whispered, my hands trembling. This required courage.


    I focused my eyes back out to the street, Gregori and Carrick talking in lower tones. Pointing further down the street, they walked apart. Gregori back in his chariot, Carrick on his horse; the two continued without noticing us.


    I had to be careful, grasping onto the little power I had left. It didn''t seem like it would be enough. Small ideas, few options.


    I looked down, baskets and shelves beneath the counter. In one, a blank stack of parchment, bound together. I picked it up, slipping it into my coat.


    "What is that for?" Gloria asked, tilting her head. Eyes locked in confusion. I pushed away my thoughts, refusing to dwell on them.


    "Something to detail our travels in." I grinned at her. "You know how sentimental I am."


    She shook her head, laughing, "I do remember. You wrote me endless amounts of songs."


    I smiled back as I stood, motioning her onward, "This is your plan Gloria, lead on."

 8- Blackout the Sun

    "Why are we here, Gloria?" I asked, standing on the temple steps. I could feel her hesitate, shivering against a chilling breeze.


    "Here is as good as any place to begin."


    "That''s a bit cryptic. We''re not going to join the sun cult are we? My grandmother would be rolling in her grave," I laughed, her silence stilling me.


    "...No of course not. That would be pointless," she muttered, eyes fixed forward. "We are here for a greater purpose."


    We took a step closer, towards the Mantle, the temple of the sun. I had heard the rumours of the branched off cult. The stories of outsiders being skinned alive and burned as sacrifices, were enough to cause reluctance.


    "Care to share what that is? I told you I''m with you now, we''re in this together."


    "We''re here for the sun," Gloria said, starting up the steps. An image of the sun standing over the archway. I gasped at her answer, the first verse of the song repeating in my mind:


    Begin the end, the watchman shouts


    Destroy the sun, he sings


    Blackout the sky and all the stars


    Erase the pain it brings


    "For the sun¡­.like we''re going to destroy it?" I asked.


    She turned back, giving me a casual shrug. "In a sense."


    "Okay, but how are we supposed to do that?" I muttered. My eyes drawn to the entryway, a man with a band of cloth over his eyes, waited for us at the top.


    "Not without help."


    He stood as if stone ''staring'' out towards us. I fought the shivers crawling down my spine. Peppered white hair and beard, he wore a taupe cloak wrapped over his shoulder.


    We stopped in front of him, Gloria carefully studying him. "You know why we''re here," Gloria said, her voice only in my head.


    The man turned, "Yes, Gloria heir of Omen, I know."


    My mouth fell open. "How did you-"


    "Hear her? What I lack in sight of the physical world, is compensated by what I can experience of other realms, Alexander Wren."


    So he knew who I was too.


    He tightened his fists. "Let''s get this over with, shall we?" The old man hobbled forward, I was amazed at how easily he moved for someone who couldn''t see. "I''ve sent everyone else away, they wouldn''t disturb the process." He turned back for a moment, walking through the archway and into the courtyard.


    Around the courtyard was a covered walkway, a couple steps down was a square open to the sky. An outline of a circle etched in the center, it stood in front of a tower with large doors. A fountain, to one side, water bubbling up. Series of glass pipes wound together, opening above it.


    "Do you know how to create spells?" the old man asked, stopping in place.


    "No, I-"


    "I have an idea," Gloria interrupted, raising her hand.


    "Ah so the princess knows magic, very unorthodox," he chuckled.


    "Just a little." She smiled, oozing pride.


    I took a step back. "Where did you learn magic?" I asked her.


    Gloria shrugged, "Carrick taught me some."


    Carrick? I couldn''t picture him taking the time to teach anyone, anything. How did I not know about this?Unauthorized content usage: if you discover this narrative on Amazon, report the violation.


    "He was kind to me when I was little," she added, noticing my frown. "He still had some of his heart left back then."


    I rolled my eyes, "Carrick never had a heart."


    "That''s not fair, Alex." She put her hands on her hips.


    "Not fair? He-"


    "You can continue bickering once I''m gone." The cloaked man shook his head at us. "For now just watch." He scooped some of the water in his palms, the drips tracking as he poured it into the circle, the water tracing it.


    "A spell requires a loop, a circle by which it can flow. To remain the connection must not be broken," the strange man instructed, water dripping off his finger tips.


    "And we need life power, blood is used most commonly." Gloria knelt by the circle.


    The old man stood stiffly. "Blood magic...Did your teacher tell you that?"


    She nodded, "He mentioned it but I learnt more on the other side." Gloria locked her eyes on the man, a hostile intensity.


    My brain was spinning, things connecting. "Wait a second what are we talking about?" I asked, stepping forward. This didn''t sound like a good idea.


    His hands shook. "You shouldn''t ask questions, you don''t want answers to."


    Gloria stood, walking over with a reassuring smile. "You do trust me don''t you, Alex?"


    "Ya¡­" I muttered, darting my eyes between both of them. "But can''t you just tell me the plan straight out?"


    "I''ve already told you the plan." Gloria turned, A frustrated look in her eyes. She headed towards the huge doors of the center tower. What did Gloria mean she told me? She barely told me anything.


    I turned to the cloaked man. "Why are you helping us?" I asked him.


    He clenched his jaw. "To stand in resistance will only increase the cost."


    I gawked at his answer, watching him follow after Gloria''s soul. He didn''t look back.


    I didn''t understand what he met. What cost? I forced my feet to go forward, feeling an internal pull. An itch to follow this plan forward. It was necessary, I knew it must be done. Was this how Gloria felt? I was torn in all this, compelled and afraid. There was no going back, only forward.


    I walked up the steps, pulling out the parchment I took. I started writing out every detail I remembered, since I got Gloria back. The gateway, the song, any cryptic phrases about plans, this place; I needed to remember it all. I would write down everything.


    I hid the paper, back in my coat. Slowly slipping through the door, I entered the room at the top of the stairs. The room was a circle, an empty space except for four slots in the floor channeling together towards a wall face of gold coloured gears.


    The old man with bandaged eyes, hung his head, A sorrow on his brow. Gloria stood beside him, walking closer to me. "I''m going to have to take control for a second, Alex. I''ll leave you present, I promise," she assured me.


    I nodded, reluctantly holding out my hand. She took it without hesitating, the violent cold rushing back. Shivers that messed with my thoughts, I found myself stumbling forward.


    We stood in front of the four slots. Gloria pulled out Avis''s dagger, a couple specks of blood on the handle, she scraped them off into the first slot. Avis.  Turning back the dagger, she cut off a corner of my cloak stained with red. The piece placed in the second slot. Carrick. She rolled up my sleeve, picking part of the scab off, putting it in the third slot. Alex.


    The spell required four. She stared up at the old man. "Sir?"


    "My name is Morgan," he said dully, pulling out a small dagger. He pricked his finger, pressing it against his thumb till a red drop fell in the fourth slot. Morgan.


    Morgan turned a crank, the gears shifting, the tower shook. The roof panels shifted, a sliver of light shining through a large magnify glass attached to the ceiling. A focused beam of light, burning into the intersecting paths.


    Morgan stepped back, picking up a pitcher. He handed it to me, or rather Gloria. Gloria poured out the pitcher into the slots, filling up they flowed together in one pathway. The liquid disappeared from view, my mind fighting the desire to chase it.


    Morgan''s expression was still low, we ignored it. Turning on our heel, we ran towards the steps. Both Gloria and I, fueled by the same desire. Bounding down, we swung back open the doors out into the courtyard.


    Clear liquid, tinted red, ran through the pipes. Twisting around each other, the excilor dripped off hitting the top of the fountain and into the water.


    Pitcher still in hand, Gloria filled it from the fountain. Carrying the full pitcher, one of us hummed a tune. I couldn''t tell if it was me or her, but the sound of Gloria''s strange song slipped out of my lips.


    The power building in my veins, no direction to it. Energy filling my own movements, I stepped in rhythm, pouring the pitcher out along the circle. A strange heat building from the ground, the water swirling, moving in a fast current.


    I stepped into the center, looking up towards the sky. The sun standing right over us. I squinted, staring up at it. Slowly it grew easier to look at it. A black haze, pushing past the shine. Growing more potent, it created an unnatural eclipse. Blocking out the light, the dark completely covered the sun. Black as night, a sky without stars.


    The current stopped, the liquid glowing up at us. The sun and blue sky still reflected in the water. The very might of the sun, fallen at our feet. This was only the beginning. Soon we would find the world at our feet.

 9- Each Direction

    I was ready to collapse, stumbling in the dark. Minutes, hours, days; it was hard to keep track when the sun never rose.


    Victory was sweet, but it wasn''t enough. My fingers itched for more, for completion. A need to finish the task set before me. Maybe this would make up for what I just stood by and watched.


    I could still picture it in my mind, the first day I saw the fountain. Water that glowed as light itself, swirling goods and blues. I was only a child, tempted by radiance. I could feel the power beckoning to me then. I gave into the call and took a drink.


    The second time I saw the fountain, was the last time anyone ever would.


    "I can''t imagine what that would''ve been like," Gloria''s words bounced around the memory. Black starless night, erupting flames, Carrick wading through the water. That sick feeling in the back of my throat, begging me to stop him. Begging me to do anything...


    "Why didn''t you? All it would''ve taken was a simple song." Her question stood accusing, unable to cut through the images. Carrick''s feverish grin laughing at me in the fire glow. My voice paralyzed in its place.


    "It was so quiet...I couldn''t interrupt the silence." I took a breath, trying to focus on the air in my lungs, the dirt under my feet. I didn''t want to remember that night.


    "That''s a cowards response."


    Gloria''s words stabbed me, I tried to run. Locking my legs in place, Gloria sent me stumbling to the dirt. The dry dust caught under my fingernails.


    "Tell me the real reason, Alex."


    This was insane. I didn''t need to answer for this. I laid still, refilling my lungs with oxygen, my limbs unmoving."You''re right, I''m a coward. I was afraid of Carrick," I shuddered at my response, refusing to look up.


    Gloria laughed,"You''ve never been afraid of Carrick for a day in your life." Her soul slipped away from me, a ghostly hand finding mine.


    I pulled my hand back. "I was that night! You didn''t see the look in his eyes, how he was in that place-" I choked on my words, gagging at the truth.


    "It wasn''t him you were afraid of¡­ in fact you believed him." She turned away, eyes glossed over.


    The silhouette of my hands shook, trembling back at me. An old voice never leaving my head, you will always be a slave to it, the power in your blood. A power that answered to something higher. Chained to this sick game of destiny. As long as the fountain existed I would never be free.


    That was the narrative that sold me on inaction. I was afraid of the fountain¡­.afraid of the power inside of me.


    "There is a part in all of us that wants to crush what''s good," Gloria whispered, eyebrows locked down. "I just always thought you were different."


    Her words stung, slicing at my heart. "I''m sorry, I''m such a disappointment." I got to my feet, dusting the dirt off of my pants. "Will you let me keep moving forward?"


    Gloria nodded, a guilty look in her eyes. "Of course, although we have already arrived."


    I frowned at her, my eyes adjusting. Underneath the branches a lone tree, low grass blowing with the breeze.Enjoying this book? Seek out the original to ensure the author gets credit.


    "Arrived? This isn''t anywhere," I said, Gloria''s smile returning.


    "It may be nowhere now, but it is a site of importance. Our first direction." She slipped back to me, my hand finding something in my pocket.


    Four little stones. Luminescent, a dim light coming from the orbs.Through the shine my own eyes stared back at me. Empty terror, dead eyes. I tossed them away.


    Gloria took control of my hands, catching each stone before they hit the floor. "Careful!" she shouted. "We don''t have time to go back if one of them breaks."


    "Are these...pieces of the gate?" I gagged, the clear glass burning on my finger tips.


    "Yes, we''re trying to thin it out till it shatters."


    "How did you do this? When did you do this?" I asked, fighting the urge to throw them again.


    Gloria tightened her grip on the pieces. "It was before I left Omen. Do you want me to break down the whole process?"


    "No...I just didn''t know it could be broken into pieces." I loosened my fingers, keeping them over the reflection.


    "The gateway is in essence the same as the thing it comes from. These are merely drops of the body of water."


    "I guess that makes sense." I scratched my head. "What do you want me to do with them?"


    A shovel leaned against the tree, Gloria slipped the stones back in my pocket, picking it up. "We just need to bury one here."


    "Ah, and then the rest?" I asked, breaking ground


    Gloria nodded. "Each has their own site, north, south, east, west. This part in the plan is the most time consuming, but once it''s over, the rest will happen quite quickly."


    I threw the dirt over my shoulder. "The rest? You always avoid spelling out exactly what we''re doing."


    "No I don''t. We''re shattering the gateway." Gloria stepped back, a flash of guilt in her eyes. "I''m sorry if that''s not specific enough for you."


    Sinking the shovel back into the earth, I paused. "It just seems like there''s something more."


    Gloria glared at me. "Seems like there''s more? what does that even mean, Alex?"


    "Fine don''t tell me," I growled. "How deep does this need to be?"


    "I''ll tell you when to stop."


    ¡°Sure, that¡¯s reassuring.¡± I threw another load of dirt behind me.


    Gloria ignored me, laying back beside the hole. Propping her head up, she stared up at the empty sky. Big blue eyes, so certain, so serene.


    There was something different about her. I couldn¡¯t quite put my finger on what it was. She was more confident now, confrontational even, but I had seen that side of her before. I never thought that death could change a person. I guess it was a significant enough event.


    The hole grew deeper with each strike of the shovel. I wiped a bead of sweat off my forehead, Gloria sitting up.


    ¡°This should do.¡± She swung back, her hand moving as mine. Taking one bead, she dropped it into the hole. Falling as a water drop, it soaked up into the dirt. The light swirling back, forming a little circle.


    My one eyes reflected back at me, the same hollowness shining up with the glow. I threw a heap of dirt over it. I couldn''t bear to look at it.


    Something of a predictive quality about the image, fate sealed. I wasn''t making it out of this alive. Desperately filling the hole with the loose earth. Gloria was quiet...maybe she knew.


    A sound started from the bushes, echoing across the field. Loud against the silence. Gloria pulled in closer, eyes wide. I swallowed the lump in my throat, holding the shovel as a weapon. "Who¡¯s there!¡± I yelled into the dark.


    A short silhouette emerged, stomping over the brush. ¡°I guess I''m an idiot for believing your apology.¡± Avis''s voice sent knives down my spine.


    "She knows¡­." Gloria''s words slipped out, mixing with my own fears.


    Fury reflected in those irises, Avis marched towards us. Across the field she stopped, pulling her dagger from its sheath. "Alexander Wren, I bring judgment against you. For your actions against, Omen, humanity and all that¡¯s holy. I will make certain you burn.¡±

 10- The Voice That Calls Our End

    Hands trembling, I stepped back. Shovel trained on Avis. The dark of the night made it hard to see. "You don''t have to do this. Listen to reason," I called.


    She stayed blank faced, fists tight. Quiet as a shadow moved in from behind me.


    I turned, swinging the shovel. A shadow jumping back, a scar across his brow. Carrick. He cleared his throat, "A hypocritical request, Alexander, when reason is not your preferred guide."


    I didn''t need this. I shook the shovel at Avis. "He''s lying, it''s him. Omen''s his fault."


    She laughed, "Of course it is. Carrick is not a very convincing liar."


    "Gregori believed it," he growled.


    Avis raised her chin. "Gregori will believe anything convenient."


    "Why then are you here?" I darted my eyes between them.


    Red eyes intensified. "I''m not here because of Omen. I''m here because of what you''re doing now."


    "We both are." Carrick stepped forward.


    I shrunk back. I needed to get out of here. "I don''t know what you''re talking about?"


    Avis narrowed her eyes. "Why don''t you let Gloria speak? She can tell us."


    "I was enjoying listening to you." Gloria''s words slipped out, a grin stuck on my face. "Why don''t you tell us how this is going to end, prophetess?"


    "I thought you were going to ask from now on," I bit back, panic rising in my chest.


    Gloria held on. "You should let me handle this," her words stuck in my head.


    Avis raised her chin."Not in your favor."


    Gloria laughed aloud, "Mhm, and how clear is your foresight in the dark?"


    Avis stepped back, eyes wide. "How-"


    "I''m sure you have a good idea of what your next steps will be, but determining Alex and Carrick will involve some guessing." Gloria smirked, shifting my feet.


    "I''m a good guesser," Avis said, tightening her stance.


    "Yes but what about things you''re completely blind to? I am not in the timeline, I am absent from prophecy. Every vision you see is incomplete."


    "At the tavern...I didn''t see Alex coming because of you." Avis whispered, hands trembling.


    Gloria nodded. "It was something I couldn''t resist exploiting."


    Avis snarled. "This is wicked, evil-"


    "Tell that to the mastermind." Gloria pointed at Carrick.


    All eyes on him, he raised his hands. "Now listen, do you think I knew what would happen? Foresight''s your job, Avis."


    I cleared my throat, taking back my mouth. "We don''t want any trouble...Gloria and I are trying to fix things."


    Avis twisted her face in horror. "Fix things? Is that what you think?"


    "Shut up," Gloria''s hiss slipped out.


    "What is she talking about?" I asked, frozen in place. If you encounter this narrative on Amazon, note that it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    "She doesn''t understand," her voice rang through my thoughts, shivers running down my arms.


    Avis paced, glaring. "Honestly how could you not know? Look what you''re doing.That song..." Avis grimaced.


    "I don''t-" my mind stopped, lyrics dancing through my head. Chaotic, jumbled, filtered through memory. So much about endings. One phrase stuck out, haunting me. Come that day when mortals die. I shook my head. "Gloria, you can''t mean to¡­."


    "The world is too far gone for redemption."


    "No¡­" My horror slipped out, stolen but a sudden rush of ice. My voice choked out, I couldn''t breathe, limbs seizing, I couldn''t move. "Stop, what are you doing!"


    "What I must, Alex," her whisper peppered with guilt. "I do truly love you."


    "Gloria¡­" My vision blurred, coming in and out. My focus faded, fighting to stay present. I couldn''t let Gloria do this.


    Avis drew back. Dagger poised, certainty on her brow. "I''m warning you now, I''m prepared for this fight."


    Gloria grinned. "Yes and I''m excited to test out these vocal cords." She turned back. "What do you think, Carrick? You''ve been pretty quiet. Ever thought much about dying?"


    Carrick pulled out a sword. His posture, shaky, uncertain. "I don''t want to hurt you, Gloria," he growled.


    "That''s not what you should be worrying about." She said, humming a starting note.


    "They''ll be ready for that," I warned,  cutting through the confusion.


    Gloria''s smile unwavered. "Optimism, Alex."


    Avis charged, a swipe of her dagger. Gloria ducked around her strikes, swinging the shovel back. The movement messing with my head, my stomach churned.


    Gloria sang, spinning together something of a song. The tune, the same doomsday ballad from earlier. Air growing stiffer, Avis flinched, ducking back.


    Carrick slashed after us with his blade. My vision choppy, Carrick''s ugly face sneered at me. A desperate strike, his stance weak. Gloria whacked him with the shovel, his body crumpling to the floor. Avis came back with a swift kick, knocking me in the dirt.


    Pain ripping through me, Gloria lifted us out of the dirt. Starting her song again, it built up with more power.


    My assailants tensed, the song pulling at their will. I could feel the power building, wrapping around into a melody. Each note malleable, ready to bring the world along. Strange to be outside that power.


    Carrick shifted, falling in line with the song. His sword sliced after Avis.


    "Carrick!" Avis screamed, scattering away. "You''re letting her control you!"


    My laugh came out so gleeful. Gloria''s laugh. My stomach knotted. She raised my arms triumphantly. "This power is incredible! I feel like I could overcome anything, be anything. There''s nothing like this."


    "It only feels that way," I warned, being shoved back.


    Avis was iron, eyebrows locked down. She stood strong against the pull. Dodging Carrick''s attacks, she turned back, kicking the sword from his grasp. He lunged, taken down by a jab to his throat.


    "You will not win this fight," Avis roared, blade still in hand. She pointed at me."I will kill you."


    Gloria smirked, changing the tempo of her song. The rhythm quick, moving up a scale. Notes higher than I thought my voice could go. Avis shut her eyes, arms seizing up. She dropped her dagger.


    Her face twisted up in horror, eyes pleading, asking for mercy. She fell to her knees, head hung in defeat. No¡­ My hands wrapped around the shovel, feet walking closer. I couldn''t watch this. "Gloria, no!" I shouted, "You can''t do this!"


    She didn''t slow, raising the shovel back. "I have to."


    "No you don''t." I reached back for control. My soul twisting, fighting against Gloria''s. I couldn''t fail. My hands shook, movement stalled. Gloria clawed at my consciousness. My hold was steady.


    I took her voice.


    My lips moved without sound, the power disintegrating. Avis blinked, sweat dripping down her forehead. Silence still in the air  Carrick groaned, over rolling in the dirt. I did it, I won, I took back control.


    "What do you think you''re doing, Alex?" Gloria''s voice, calm, quiet. Fear creeped back in, my hold slipping. I couldn''t form words, my mind screaming back in confusion. She dug her fingers back in. I didn''t want to go back. I couldn''t go back.


    Avis stood up. I didn''t see the blade, a sharp slice in my side. Red stained my shirt, the bloch growing. My fingers grazed the wound, eyes stinging. Why? My vision blurred, spiralling as I fell into the depths of my mind. Lost in the recesses, awareness disappeared. There was no sun, not in the sky and not in my mind. All was dark.

 11- One More Breath

    My breath ragged, throat raw. Was I running? My body, stiff, cold. The dusty gray sand on my finger tips. I''m on the ground. My eyes blurred in and out of focus, the darkness swallowing everything. It''s quiet, too quiet. A gentle flame in distance, the only break in the night. Firelight danced across the dunes.


    I can''t remember how I got here.


    Rolling over to the starless sky, I wiped the sweat off my brow. Eyelids heavy, heartbeat slowed. I don''t want to remember this hellish nightmare, I don''t want to remember anything. My head was quiet, Gloria''s voice gone. I could let myself hope¡­ maybe this was a dream. My skin crawled in response. I couldn''t escape that easily.


    The ache in my side stung, the pain of a poorly healed wound. Something digging into my ribs, I shifted through my jacket, finding the stack of parchment. Bound together, pages worn. I pulled them out, flipping through. Squinting at the letters written out in haste, a barely legible, chaotic mess. I don''t remember writing all this. It looked like my writing, the loops looser. Details I didn''t understand, some sort of account. Brief flashes of memory, maybe I did write this.


    The wind rushing in, shivers ran down my spine. I was feverish, septic even. I didn''t need to look at the wound to know. Easier to give in, then keep on. I shut my eyes, a jolt running through my body. "Keep breathing Alex, you have to keep breathing."


    Skin prickling, heart rate accelerated, a strange mix of dread and ecstasy. Gloria...she was still here.


    Another jolt, sharp like ice. "You''re not allowed to die on me," her voice scared.


    "Glad you care," I whispered, through the gravel in my voice. "I''m not sure if I have a choice. I don''t think I can walk." I peeked my eyes open, staring back at the red flame in the distance. "I''m probably going to be eaten by a wild beast or the owner of that fire," I chuckled, my voice cracking. Wind howling, sand spun with it. I coughed, clearing my lungs. "I would ask you how we ended up here, but I doubt you''ll give me a satisfying answer."


    "I kept you moving as long as I could, but your legs gave way."


    "Did you kill them?...Avis and Carrick."


    "It¡¯s possible, I was more concerned about getting us out alive."


    "Are you mad...about Avis," I asked, hiding my face. "I didn''t think she''d knife me. I was trying to do the right thing, for once."


    Gloria slipped back, her soulish silhouette resting beside me. "I''ve had enough time to forgive you. I know you can''t see things the way I do." Her face serene, a peace that sent shivers down my spine. "I don''t blame you, Alex."


    "I''m glad you''re with me, if I die," I spoke to the sky.


    Gloria''s smile faltered. "You''re not dead yet¡­.I only broke away for a second, but I''m back, your back, and Omen is on the horizon." Her eyes, full of intensity. "I won''t give up on you, Alexander Wren."This tale has been pilfered from Royal Road. If found on Amazon, kindly file a report.


    Her soul filtered back, flooding my mind. A surge of power, my hands shaking. My limbs rising on their own, I stood back on my feet. The pain roared, hissing back screams. "Gloria?" I shouted in my head.


    "I''m getting you to Omen, I can carry you there," her words cracked, peppered with emotion. "I will carry you there."


    "...What''s the difference of where I die." My lip quivered, a fear in the back of my mind. This wasn''t about saving my life, this was about finishing her plan. Damned if I thought this was about me. Damned if I thought I mattered more than this plan. My feet staggered forward, moving as a puppet.


    The silhouetted city black against the fire. Flames licking against the wind, untended. That sicking quiet, as my feet struggled against the sand. The forest poured over the distance, behind the towers. Omen was on the edge of two worlds. The wasteland to the south, trees to the north. The desert always unsettled me. Running away from it felt best, even if I was running to something worse.


    I''m too weak to fight back...too weak to die.


    Sand turning to dead grass, stones scattered across ruins. Memories of grand processions, playing my lute down streets. Rice thrown in the air, cheering crowds, the welcome home of a war hero. Mass slaughter with merely my voice. Unforgettable, the first army I brought to its knees. King Gregori''s arms outstretched, pride in his eyes. I could''ve cared less... lost in Gloria''s smile. Hiding behind her father, those doting blue eyes, framed by her silvery-gold hair. One step closer to proving I was good enough for her hand.


    It all seemed so shallow now. Wandering through the streets of the city, half-fallen buildings. Huge stone slabs, a path leading to the palace. Everything bleak.


    "...Are you still trying to shatter the gateway?" my voice shook, the wind howling back.


    Gloria sighed, "We''re too close not to try."


    "You know how insane that sounds¡­"


    "I know."


    "I don''t want you to do this," my voice broke.


    "I know."


    I wrung my hands through my hair. "You can''t end the world...how could you even?"


    "Tell me why do you think the world should be saved?" Her voice, gentle like a summer breeze.


    I gawked at her, spitting out words, trying to think. "I don''t know...life matters...people matter."


    "Even if all they do is destroy?"


    My tongue stuck to the roof of my mouth, I squeezed my eyes shut. "But they could choose differently. Tomorrow people could choose differently. They could change."


    "But they never do."


    I shook my head . "You don''t know that¡­."


    "I do." Her voice, so certain, unwavering. We climbed the cascading stairs, the palace of Omen rose above into view.


    "I can''t accept that," I spat.


    "You can''t even change yourself, Alex." her words burned. Bitterness creeped into my throat, weighing me down. "How can you expect the world to?"


    I swallowed building arguments, biting my tongue. How can something so absolutely wrong...sound right? This is insanity. My limbs marched onward, heading towards the castle. I don''t know what to do. I have to stop her, I have to find some way to stop her. The place doors came into view. I''m out of time.

 12- Broken Glass

    "I''ve heard it said once, that all the world hangs on a thread and if only that thread was snapped, the rest would unravel." Gloria''s voice echoed across the stone walls. "What do you think?"


    "I think you''ve already made your mind up with this question." I shivered. Dragging open the heavy double doors, we walked into the room at the top of the tower. Stepping over the bodies of the slain, blood still painted across the floor. Not long since I was here with Carrick. The dead untouched by forgers. Even the animals stayed away from this place.


    Gloria snapped her fingers, stopping in the center of the room. "The age of immortality, that''s the phrase I was thinking of. One of the teachers my father brought in talked of such an age. Red-faced and shouting, he was removed from the palace, but his words stuck with me." My hands shook, violet shivers running down my body. Stepping up to the circle, covered by a sheet, I pulled it away. The room filling with light, the glow held my gaze.


    Gloria hummed, "If you could kill mortality itself, what would remain?"


    My breathing echoed through the room, my reflection the same deathly aurora. This was the cost of playing God. This was on my head


    "What if all that remains is nothing?" I coughed, my lungs burning.


    "Do you think everything is mortal, Alex? Can''t you see we''re standing on the cusp of something great?"


    No...I can''t. I didn''t know how to convince her.


    Gloria reached into my pocket, wielding Avis''s dagger. The strange rock the blade between my hands. "It''s called elemental-ore. Made from the bedrock beneath the foundation. It''s the only material that can interact with the gateway. The dagger, the lock, and the key are all made from it." She flipped the dagger in my hand, stabbing it into the mirror. Sparks exploded, shooting from the incision.


    "What- is- this-?" I hissed, heat burning on my palm.


    "You need to be free from it''s view, free from the gaze of destiny." Gloria tightening my grip, tracing the knife along my image. "Otherwise it will resist."


    "Resist?" I rasped. Completing the outline, the dagger dropping to the floor. "Nothing wants to die."


    A shadow moved behind me, I tried to turn my head. "Gloria?"


    "Don''t worry, I see him," she hissed. "He''s not as stealthy as he thinks."


    Carrick stepped out from behind a bookshelf, another scar along his eyebrow. "I''m getting jealous, you seem to know more about the gateway than I do."


    It''s over. Relief rushed over me. He would stop her.


    "The fire outside the city," Gloria stole my voice, "that was you."


    Carrick grinned. "Well I knew you''d come back, all I needed was patience." He stepped closer, a gleam in his eye. "Your determination is admirable, Princess, but Alexander is fading."Royal Road is the home of this novel. Visit there to read the original and support the author.


    "Just take one more step," she threatened, reaching my arm to the top of the mirror. His eyes wide, lunging after me. Gloria threw the gateway down. The seamless glass crashed into water, spinning into a raging torrent. I jumped back, gaping at the waters. Solid to liquid. Blinking at the memorizing mess of colours, I held my breath.


    Carrick swung himself away. He took a breath, eyes wide. "I may not know how this all works, but I do know you''re losing time. There''s an army coming."


    "You''re right, you don''t know how this works," Gloria snapped.


    Carrick straightened his posture. "Then illuminate me, I want to know." The gleam returned to his eye. Gloria smiled. Oh no...


    "No...Carrick, wait," I croaked, my voice strained. I should''ve known. The look in his eye was the same when he looked at the gateway, when ranted about magic. He wasn''t here to stop her. Carrick didn''t care about consequences, he only cared about knowledge, the unanswerable question. This is just another experiment.


    Gloria laughed, "So you want me to spill my guts, till the soldier''s spill Alex''s. A new low, Carrick."


    "That''s a serious accusation." He raised his hands. "...I may be able to stall the guards, but I need a reason." His lips curled up in a smile."How does one end the world?"


    "Please, if you ever loved me at all¡­"


    Gloria paced around the whirlpool. Carrick walking around the opposite end, a sliver of fear in his eyes. She sighed, "If you stand back, you can watch."


    "As you wish." He took a step back, raising his hands.


    "I''m sorry, Alex." She knelt down beside the churning water, reaching into the torrent. Stinging like needles, I gasped at the burning cold. My fingers numb, fishing through. She latched onto something, pulling up a rusted padlock. "This is more important," she said. My hand trembling, I held onto it. Water dripped to the floor, returning to the whirlpool.


    "I seem to remember you left the key here?" Gloria looked up. Carrick nodded, shuffling through fallen papers, he held up to the light. I tried to move my fingers, drifting mercilessly. Carrick tossed the key, caught in my hand. I could only watch, only watch...as the world burned.


    The click of the lock, followed by the screams of a thousand souls. Seething pain, I grimaced, grinding my teeth. "You can hear that?" Gloria asked. I nodded, swallowing the nausea. Gloria eased her grip. "Just a step from death''s door..." she whispered, slipping the key around our neck.


    "What?" Carrick blinked.


    "Nothing, just pass me a flask, or a bottle," she ordered.


    Carrick scattered, shuffling through shelves. He pulled a glass bottle, inching his way over. "Will this work?"


    Gloria took it, unscrewing the lid. "Yes, just fine." Setting it down on the floor, she walked around the gateway. Lifting the edge of the gateway, she tipped it at an angle. The shining liquid poured into the jar. Carrick slack-jawed, he leaned closer.


    The circle disappeared into the tiny glass. A chaotic spin of colours, unstable the movement changed. Gloria snatched the jar, tightening the lid. So bright, I couldn''t stare at it. "Beautiful, isn''t it?" she mused, slipping the jar in my pocket. The glow bled through the fabric, a strange hum coming from it. I don''t want this in my pocket. Afraid it would shatter, and pull me into its volatile current.


    Carrick strutted over, arms above his head. "This is incredible, how did you figure this out? Fit the whole gateway in a flask! You could take it anywhere. This changes everything," he shouted, stopping in front of the window.


    My eyes were drawn out the window. A tower across this one, light in the window, a silhouette, crouched on the ledge. The candlelight shone over their eyes, red eyes. "Carrick!" I yelped. Startled confusion across his face. I leaped towards him, shoving him away from the window. The whiz of an arrow, past my eyes. It hit smack dead in Carrick''s shoulder. He screamed, staggering back.


    Turning my heel, I was dead in the archer''s aim. I flung myself away, the arrow skimming my side. The closed wound sliced open, fresh blood soaking through my shirt. Shit. I gawked at the wound, fingers covered in blood. Carrick kept screaming, my vision hazy. Blood dripped down my torso.


    "You better get moving, Alex."

 13- Circle

    "She''s coming for us, then Carrick''s army''s coming for us," Gloria hissed. My shirt torn in shreds, wrapped around my torso. The pressure dug into my side as I stumbled down the steps.


    "I know¡­" I rasped, grimacing as I caught my balance. Running past a window, the view of the cityscape below. Little dark dots over the horizon, torches lighting their march. Carrick wasn''t bluffing. An army approaching the city, a hundred maybe two hundred. Dread heavy on my shoulders. I was too weak to fight that many.


    Turning the bend, I scurried out the palace doors. A sharp chill in the air, I swallowed another hit of nausea. "We should get out of here, regroup. You can see we''re not going to succeed? Right?" I pleaded, "Gloria?"


    "We''re not making it out regardless," her voice slipped out my lips. My legs buckled, the ice cold grip latched back. She turned my heel, running into the dark city.


    "Where are we going," I cried, trying to claw my way back. "Gloria!"


    "We need a ring of lifepower."


    What? She couldn''t mean...no¡­


    Gloria''s voice wavered, "This wasn''t my intention. I wasn''t going to-" A tear rolled down my cheek. "-You understand you''re going to die, no matter what I do? Only this way...I can avenge you." She tightened my fists.


    I couldn''t find the words to respond. Drifting away, numbed to the insanity. Today is the day I would die. My laugh escaped, echoing through the street. I can''t accept that, it seems so ridiculous¡­


    The glow from my pocket seemed brighter. Whispers buzzing around, mingled together in unison. The energy grew, tense in the atmosphere.


    Vision shaky, the city gate closer with each step. Someone watched me, lurking in the shadows. I could feel their eyes. Avis is close.


    "You think we can out run her?" Gloria asked, taking a gasp of air.


    "Not the arrows."


    "That''s what I thought¡­" Gloria murmured, turning my head. Abandoned shops, shrouded in shadows, I hopped over the nearest booth. Crawling through the wares, she pulled up a stringed instrument. A gleeful laugh escaped, staring at the find.


    "It¡¯s nothing as nice as yours was, but it''s a lute."


    "It''s glorious¡­" I hummed, my fingers dancing over the strings. Gloria peeked out to the street, hiding back against the wall. "I know it''s not fair to ask but-"


    "This may be my last chance to play." My fingers itching for a melody. What a fool I am.


    "Just focus on the song." She took a breath, my shoulders tensing. "I''ll focus on running." Standing in the doorway, jaw clenched. She''s nervous. A sudden desire to reassure her, tell her it would all be okay...but the words felt hollow. Both of us knew.


    A slave to the melody, she was right, I''d focus on the song. My fingers obeyed the call, plucking a starting note. The last song I may ever play, and I choose this...that damn funeral dirge. I have a terrible imagination. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Gloria stepped into the street, an arrow flying by my head. I shifted the melody, the song spinning into something different. Building off the original, this version was stranger, more beautiful. Something like ice, cold and sinister. The world bent under my finger tips.


    Another arrow fired, the song warping it''s trajectory. I already have Avis. Laughing as I ran. Her white hair disappeared down an alleyway. If she''s smart she won''t follow. I am powerful! I am in control! I am not dying today! I-


    A sharp ache, blood flooding my side. The bandages around my waist, cut loose. The pieces of bloody cloth in my hand. "Gloria¡­"


    "Nothing changes, Alex," she echoed in my thoughts. "Keep playing your song."


    My mind hazing over again, I returned to the song. A trail of blood behind us. With every step I felt weaker, running through silent streets. Fear eating at my heart, the threat of a new wound, my body torn apart. Avis at my heels¡­.soldiers entering the city. I don''t stand a chance. I never stood a chance.


    Feet quick against the stones, sweat dripped down my brow. I slowed at the sight of the corner, passing one last street. Avis slipped out, barrelling into me.


    Gaze spinning, I teetered, the lute falling from my hands. Watching as it hit the ground, it shattered into pieces.


    Avis limped, chasing me with the end of an arrow. "Alex- you''re dead- you''re-" she huffed, swiping at me. I stepped around her attacks, wide-eyed.


    "You''re in rough shape, Avis. You should rest," Gloria''s words, but they sounded like mine.


    "No...I have you." She swung again, hitting the wall instead. Her whole body trembled as she fought to stand.


    I raised my hands. "She''s gone, Gloria''s gone," my voice shook, back against the wall. Why was she saying this? Gloria cleared my throat, "I passed out, and my heart must''ve stopped, and well, it''s over¡­.I''m trying to get home."


    Avis''s shoulders drooped, lowering the broken arrow. "You sure? Honestly?" She stepped closer, peering into my eyes.


    "Yes¡­" my voice cracked, a note of fear behind it. Gloria? Why was she lying?


    "Don''t fool with me...I don''t have energy. Are you really back?" Hope in her eyes, a break in the agony.


    "Why would I be heading away from the palace if I wasn''t?" I cracked a grin.


    "I guess that''s true." She wiped the sweat off her brow, leaning against the wall. Her half grin faltered. "...But why are you running along the wall?" the fear returned to her tone.


    "You were chasing me," Gloria laughed, the stolen dagger in my hand. Wait. Avis''s eyes went wide, my hand too quick. The blade stabbed into her stomach.


    No, no, no. Those fiery eyes losing light, Avis slid down the wall.


    "Alex¡­" She raised a shaky finger. "Don''t you damn let this happen again." Blood dripped from the corner of her snarl. "...don''t you dare stand by, you don''t have to stand by..." She struggled with words, the air leaving her lungs.


    I dropped the dagger. Avis stared up at the sky with hollow eyes. My friend, my enemy, the best of both kinds. Tears welled in my eyes, a heavy lump in my throat.


    "...I had to, Alex...there was no other way," Gloria stuttered, "She would''ve killed us¡­ don''t forget she was ready enough to kill you earlier-"


    "Shut up, Gloria, shut up!" I gripped my head, keeling over. Blood pooling, my breathing ragged. "You made me kill her."


    My fingers wrapped around the dagger, my other hand pressed against the wound. I can''t live with this. Laying with my head in the dirt, I dug my fingers in the dirt. My legs swung underneath me, a jarring panic in my mind. I don''t want to move...please let me sleep... just let me sleep. My limbs didn''t obey, stumbling to my feet, away from Avis''s corpse.


    "Don''t let her blood be spilt in vain," Gloria said. Her words were no comfort, my mind screaming to return to the dust. Instead my feet continued, building the ring, a circle of blood.

 14- The Beginning of the End

    Nearly finished¡­


    My vision blurred, the streets moving up and down like waves on a ship. Don''t you damn let this happen again. Avis''s last words circled around in my head. I''m letting this happen again.


    The beginning of the circle, red blood dashed across the street ahead. Find the ending written in blood, there the mirror breaks. If only I knew the song was talking about my blood.


    My legs faltered, falling to my knees. Right in front of the start of the blood trail. It''s too late now.


    "What will happen when the mirror breaks?" I whispered, the wind rushing in.


    "The souls will be freed from the between," Gloria answered. The jar in my pocket moved, the buzzing louder.


    "The between? You mean not all the dead are in the mirror?"


    "Those in the gateway, must have one foot in life and death. Something that holds you in time."


    I frowned, fingers tight around the wound. "What held you?"


    "You, of course," her words, a bittersweet knife." I did love you, Alex¡­I wasn''t ready to die, it wasn''t my time." Her hand slipped into my pocket pulling out the jar.


    Squinting at the light, I swallowed the rising fear. "I''m sorry,"  I whispered, eyes fixed on the jar. Pure energy between my fingers, the heat singed at my skin. "How does this end?" My grip weakened, the surface like fire.


    "The dead are starving for life, they will devour it all," Gloria said, my hands shaking. "Let go Alex...you can''t hold on."


    I dug my fingers in. "I...can''t...I can''t stand by."


    "This is my sin, Alex. Let it be," her voice so reassuring. My jaw quivered, the blaring pain at the forefront of my mind.


    "...No."


    "Shut your eyes and dream¡­.this will all be over soon."


    I shook my head again, hissing at the sting. The jar slipped from my fingers. The world slowing down, the glass crashed on the ground. Shattering into a million pieces, the gateway poured out. A kaleidoscope of colours, spiralling into a whirlpool. A violent current, splashing after me. I scattered back, running away from the pull. If you stumble upon this narrative on Amazon, it''s taken without the author''s consent. Report it.


    The glow illuminated silhouettes of moving heads. A wall of sheer will power. The fear pounded in my heart like a drum. The army was here. Carrick''s army was here.


    Thundering footsteps backing us against the wall. Warriors with hardened faces, dark armour pouring out from each intersection.


    I have faced armies before...bigger armies, stronger. Surrounded by clashing metal and the cry of battle. My war songs were unlike all others...I longed to control the battlefield once more, to write a bloody symphony. A sick desire for destruction, never to be lived. My body shaking, consumed with terror. Any song would be drowned out here. The space was too great, my lungs too weak.


    Better to die now while the world''s safe. I shut my eyes, trying to think of happier things. There is no peace in my mind. The feel of the blade was the only thing I could imagine.


    "They''re too late," Gloria snickered. What? My eyes shot open. My foot smeared the blood together, across the stones. Ring complete.


    "Gloria," I yelped. A glow started at the connection, traveling down the ring. Shouts from the men, a commotion growing. "What have you done?"


    "This is something from your wheelhouse, Alex. Let the enemy corner you and rain down destruction." Her smirk across my face. Their confusion turned to screams, armoured knights collapsing to the dirt. Clawing at their skin as they fell.


    "How¡­?" I stammered.


    "I promised I would avenge you," Gloria''s voice in my head. The inside of the circle took on a hazy glimmer. "Screams pattering out to silence, black armour scattered over the streets. "A happy coincidence, that the circle can both kill our enemies and prepare the gateway."


    "This is sick¡­vile."


    "Necessary," she interrupted. Standing on edge, we stepped into the ring. Stinging needles on my skin, something stiff in the air. I wasn''t dying? "It''s already made of your blood Alex, no need to drain power it possesses."


    The specks of blood on my hands glowed with the same light, the fatal wound radiating. The pain dulled, head foggy. Approaching the swirling current, dagger in hand. "Begin the end the watchman shouts¡­" Gloria hummed, flipping the blade in her hand.


    "And what about redemption?" I spat, stalling my feet. "Maybe change is impossible but, what if we''re forgetting something! You remember the last words of the song right, forgotten remedy. Forgotten remedy!"


    "In time you''ll understand," Gloria huffed, marching onward, leaning over the rushing water.


    "What if this isn''t the only way! What if you don''t have to kill everything. Please, listen!"


    "I''m done listening, Alex. I''ve spent my life listening." She gripped the edge, moving to lift up the mirror. "Not anymore."


    "I can''t stand by."


    I pulled back, freezing my hand. Gloria fighting back, scraping at my hold. "You...don''t get to decide," she growled. Vision cutting in and out, my hold slipped.


    "Stop fighting me!" she roared. My body flew forward. Eyes wide, I tumbled into the current. The raging waters of the gateway swallowed me whole.

 15- Between

    My heartbeat was free from my chest. A thud, thud, that drummed through existence. Maybe it''s not a heartbeat at all. Trembling at the depths of emptiness, alone with the rhythm of a song I couldn''t comprehend¡­ is this death?


    The air was cool but not cold, no shivers along my arms. My skin was clean, no dirt under my nails, no splotches of blood. Hands that were barely recognizable as my own. Taking deep breaths of air, my lungs strong again. Any sliver of an ache was gone. My fingers pressed against the wound, a scar ripped along it, an old scar.


    My eyes squinted at the light, a heavy glare. Surrounded by white nothing, no floor, no walls. Flashes of colour moving like streams. Vivid lines circling me, moving along with the current.


    We fell into the gateway.


    I gasped, the atmosphere pouring down my throat. My eyes watered, stinging, they burned. I coughed, choking on the bitter taste. Gloria''s gone, I''m all alone. My head hollow, weightless. The light twisted out, the white abyss stretching endlessly. I''m not sure if she''s here somewhere. If anyone''s here.


    Something in the distance, a dark speck, suspended like me. I waved my arm below, my fingers slipping through whatever held me up. Should I try and stand? Or would I fall into the neverending depths.


    Carefully, I rolled over, lifting myself up. So far so good. The nothing supporting my feet, I walked towards the speck. Colours shifted their dance towards the cloaked stranger.


    I recognized the cloak, the tattered corners moving along with the current. I froze in place. His face left towards the sky. The guardian.


    Deep breaths I wandered closer. Kicking him with my foot, I muttered, "I should''ve listened to you." The hood brushed away from his face, sullen and sunken cheekbones. Such a pitiful creature. Grayish skin, wispy hair. Eyes dead, open to the sky. Guilt clawing at me, I swallowed it back. What''s done is done, there''s no going back. I turned, a slight glimmer of gold returned to his eyes.


    What? I leaned closer, peering at the light. Gold outlined the edge of his irises, the fire of the sun. My lips parted, staring at the firelight. His snicker sent me flailing back. Scattering as the guardian lifted his head, giving a weak cough.


    "You''re not dead!" I whimpered.


    Another snicker, his breathing swallow. "You can''t die when you''re already dead." He coughed again, the golden fire filling his eyes. "Although, I would prefer death to this." He pointed to the hole in his chest. "Damned mirror blade. I will remain like this till the end of time."Enjoying the story? Show your support by reading it on the official site.


    "...I''m not sure I understand."


    "No, I shouldn''t think you would." He motioned to the space beside him. "Sit, young man, you seem troubled."


    I hung my head, crouching beside him. "I''m sure you know exactly why."


    "I know why?" He blinked. "Have we met before?"


    "You don''t remember?"


    His head shook. "You are a blank slate to me. But now that you mention it, that is a strange thing...I don''t think I''ve ever met anyone who''s past and future is misplaced."


    I frowned, staring at my hands. "Gloria had me cut myself out of the gateway, something about taking me from its gaze."


    "Gloria¡­" he hummed, "now that is a name that sounds familiar."


    I nodded. "She was the princess of Omen, daughter of Gregoroi-"


    He raised his finger "Ah, yes...then she has done it."


    "Done what?" I tilted my head.


    "The beginning of the end, doomsday, death to all mortality." He laid his head back, his breathing wheezing. "She was very clever, clearer than most souls that end up in this place. Always asking questions about anything and everything...It was nice to have someone to talk to." The light in his eyes dimmed. "It was unfortunate, her fixation with death, the end. If I ever expected she would leave...I would''ve never told her." He shut his eyes. "I''m guessing you''re to blame for that, and for this-" he pointed to the sword in his chest "- and here I thought I was too old to be naive."


    " I love her," my voice quivered.


    The guardian laughed, "So to hell with the world then, yes."


    "That''s not what I mean." I shut my eyes. "It''s complicated, I thought I was doing the right thing."


    He shook his head. "it''s not complicated."


    I wrung my hands through my hair. "How is this not complicated! There is no way I could''ve known. Now I don''t know if it''s too late, or how to get out of here-"


    "You will soon return to the surface, and Gloria will come with you." I blinked at his answer. He sighed, turning over again. "This is not a place meant for temporal things. The gateway will reject your mortal shell, and because both your souls are tethered to that form..."


    "So we''ll just be where we left off, and Gloria will finish her plan." I hung my head.


    "Now you''re concerned with doing the right thing?" He scoffed at me.


    "It''s just-"


    "Complicated?" he hissed, "It''s always complicated. The world will always be against you, and the enemies will always be strong. The difference is getting up on your own damn feet and doing what needs to be done."


    I shook my head. "I don''t know what needs to be done."


    "Yes you do."


    "No¡­" My head spinning, the colours spiraled away. "It won''t work, it won''t."


    "Then watch the world die," he sighed, "it would end my agony sooner."


    "I don''t want this to happen!" I shouted. He shut his eyes, staying stiff. "I don''t want the world end," I repeated, my voice going off. No response, his face still as stone. I shook him, fighting for anything. "Listen, there must be another way...please."


    "Another way?" His eyes cracked open, "Maybe for the world but not for you." His lips barely moved, words fading¡­.No, wait!


    The heartbeat grew louder, the pulse disrupting the current. It hurt, my vision warped. I reached after the guardian, disappearing before my eyes. Falling through the abyss, the darkness consumed everything. I''m not ready for this. The pain fell back like a ton of bricks.


    Back to the surface.

 16- One Strike

    Ash in the air, circling in my lungs. My face smeared in the dirt. Chanting, hushed in whispers, calling to me from the ground. I cracked my eyes open, the luminous haze blurred my eyes. A thin purple glow, something akin to smoke and light. A bitter taste on my tongue.


    Scattered armor across the street, the bodies of the soldiers, fallen where they stood. No source of the sound, the wind howling through the streets. This is it, this is the end. There was no running from the truth. No running away.


    My limbs struggled to rise, my hands around the dagger. My strength used up. I could move a finger, steal a breath, nothing that could stop these steps. Left with an impossible idea, one last chance.


    Gloria pivoted me towards the mirror, the circle standing upright. "No more games, Alex," her voice tired, echoed. The ethereal light cutting through the haze, it pierced my soul. The chanting came from it, building with the swirling sea of souls. Weighted and weightless, like sinking quicksand. Drawn by the sound, we stood before the circle. I can''t do this¡­I can''t do what needs to be done.


    Then watch the world die.


    Sweat dripped down my forehead. What a terrible choice. What a terrible fate. That rusted key, still in mind, spinning past my nose. A taunt, a daydream, a chance to wipe away all consequences. What a pathetic hero I am.


    A heartbeat, faint, steady, hidden behind the roaring whispers. Is it really mine? Or someone else''s? Something comforting about it, reminding me that I''m still alive. Maybe this moment is my redemption...


    Hands shaking, Gloria stood before the gateway. "Here we are..." she breathed. "Every step, every measure, all for this." A smile slipped across her lips. "One strike and the world comes crashing down."


    One strike. The words burned into my brain. A sick irony, laughing in my head, poking at my pride. I swallowed back the taunts, inching for just a sliver of control. I could never get enough to free my arm...but my voice was unguarded.


    The knife in hand, Gloria swiped it back, readying her swing. Every second ticked at a painful speed. The blade swung back, the knife falling towards the surface.


    I managed a whistle, a sound that barely escaped my lips. A couple clumsy notes, hardly a song. It was enough to pull my arm along, turning the trajectory of the knife. The dagger flew back in my direction.


    "Alex!" Gloria cried. The blade sliced deep into my chest, the handle sticking out. I gagged, stumbling back. "What have you done¡­" real shock in her voice, "Alex?"


    My legs gave way, collapsing to the floor. Breathing shallow, the blood pooled in my lungs. Gloria trying to stand, my limbs didn''t move. Her voice frantic in my head, "We have to finish this, we have to! I-"


    My vision blurring in and out, spots dotting over the sky. Gloria''s soul standing over me, her hand over her mouth. "Alex¡­"Love this novel? Read it on Royal Road to ensure the author gets credit.


    I laid my head back, blood pooling over the stones. "...I''m...not getting up." Tears streaked my vision, I couldn''t breathe.


    "Do you know what you''ve done?" Her eyes whelming up with tears. She shook her head. "You don''t know what you''ve done."


    "Please..." The pain burned in my chest. I shut my eyes, the tears slipping down my cheeks. "..just stay with me." Silence, deafening silence.


    Gloria stepped closer, her fists clenched. "I''m not going to leave you..." Her lip quivered, anger still clenched in her jaw. "I promise."


    The haze lifted, cold wind chasing away the ashy air. Shivers running across my skin, I kept my eyes on Gloria. I reached up to her face, my fingers falling through. "I ruined your life," I whispered.


    "You didn''t ruin my life." Gloria loosened her shoulders.


    "I did," I coughed. A small break in the darkness, stars bleeding through. "If I hadn''t helped Carrick-"


    "You remember that first night we met?"


    "I could never forget."


    "How many foreign princes did you cut in front of, just to steal a dance with me," she laughed, eyes brightened. "I''ve never felt more special to anyone." She pressed a kiss on my temple. "When my world felt the smallest, you made me feel like the sun."


    "Gloria¡­" my voice trembled. I want to go back, erase everything after that moment.


    She shook her head. "Don''t say anything, just dream...think of dancing. I wish we could dance again." Her ghostly fingers brushed along my temple. Her smile, lighting up my world.


    She wiped my tears, the streaks staying. Invisible fingers tracing my cheek, I could almost imagine they were real, that she was really here holding me.


    "We can dance in our minds," I hushed.


    She sniffled back a tear, resting her forehead against mine. "We just have to imagine," her voice cracked, eyes closing. "We''re under the stars...there''s candlelight and music...and you-" she stopped, choking on sobs. "...you take my hand...and-"


    Tears blurred my eyes, my throat dry. "I spin you across the floor...my steps are clumsy, and awkward, but you''re too polite to object."


    She wiped her eyes. "You''re dancing is wonderful, and you never miss a beat."


    A weak laugh, the ache growing. "And my eyes never leave yours¡­not ever." My breaths growing shallow, I struggled to pull them in. A desperation, the pain roared as I hyperventilated.


    "Alex, don''t struggle." She kissed my forehead again. "It''s okay to let go."


    "...I wish things were different. I wish-" I blinked up at her eyes, her finger caressing my cheek. "I don''t want to go¡­" I whispered.


    "Do you mind if I sing to you?" she asked. I shook my head, fighting to keep my eyes open. She stared down with warm eyes, her sweet angelic song, shaking away the misery.


    The pain leaving with her song, my grasp on consciousness slipped.


    Life draining like the blood from my veins, a sick smile stuck across my face. One last exhale, one last heartbeat, one last note of the most beautiful song I''ve ever heard. I was gone.

 17- Outro

    "And that''s how the story ends¡­" Kicking her feet on the desk, the woman retraced her finger along the page. Flipping through, her unruly sandy hair fell in front of her eyes.


    "I don''t know...I wouldn''t call that an ending, more of a beginning," he muttered. Neatly trimmed brown hair and forced posture, the youth''s eyes hardened by heavy expectations. His military uniform fit snug, a single medal proudly pinned.


    "A beginning, how so?" The woman brushed the hair out of her eyes, setting down her reading. Bags under watery grey-green eyes, curious at the question.


    The boy tilted his head, the firelight shining over his face. "Ideas never die, not really. Once they come into being, they are continuously unearthed, recycled, reimagined. It only takes the right time, place, person."


    She shrugged, stretching into a yawn. "You''re overthinking this. The story''s over if the main character''s dead."


    He paced in front of the fireplace."Alexander Wren isn''t the main character though, nor is Gloria, or Carrick, or anyone else."


    "It''s from his perspective," she hummed, raising an eyebrow. Opening a book off the desk, she lazily flipped through it.


    He scowled. "That''s because you wrote it like that. This isn''t exactly what you found in the vault, correct."


    "If I hadn''t tied up the loose ends with my gifting, you''d have nothing. I stand by my work, every word is accurate." She raised her eyebrows, slamming the book shut. "You''re welcome, by the way."


    "I''m not doubting you, Emery." He stepped back, waving his hands. A nervous grin slipped out.


    "Good." She raised her chin, balancing the book on top of her head. "Who''s your main character then?"


    He scowled. "There isn''t one, it''s not about a character."


    "Ah right, it''s about an idea." She rolled her eyes. "Ending the world isn''t an idea, Sol, its insanity."This story has been taken without authorization. Report any sightings.


    "I''m not talking about that." He snatched the book off her head. "The story is about human depravity, transformation, immorality-"


    "The price of playing God," Emery said, locking eyes with him. "Careful there, you''re sounding just like them. "


    "I am them, don''t forget that." He raised his chin.


    "I''d say you''re one tenant short of following the Remedy. Too impatient to let things run their course." She stole the book back, putting it in its place.


    "Don''t start, Emery. " he huffed, turning to face the flames.


    "That''s the truth isn''t it?" She got up walking beside him.


    He tightened his frown. "That tenant is outdated anyway."


    She smirked. "They''re all crap."


    "Crap?" His eyes seething, lit up in rage. "Perfection is everything, the only thing worth achieving. Once I pay the cost, rise above, you''ll see how wrong you really are."


    Emery snorted, "It''s scary sometimes how similar you are. Every bit your father except with real ambition." She leaned back on the desk. "He and Augustine had better watch their backs¡­"


    Sol smirked, firelight dancing in his eyes. "I don''t know what you''re talking about."


    "Sure...least you''re entertaining." Emery buried her face in her arm. "Is it too much to ask to be spared when you oneday ascend on high?"


    "I can offer an exchange." He shrugged. "Your life for what you''ve written."


    She laughed, "Careful with the deals you make, you may grow to regret this." Gathering up the pages, she held them out to him. "You could''ve had them anyway."


    He shrugged. "Why take a chance? These are worth more than you even know." Counting pages, he shuffled the stack, walking towards the door.


    "Sol," Emery called, fear creeping in her voice.


    He turned back. "Yes?"


    "Don''t do anything stupid...I''m being serious."


    "Of course." He grinned, leaning in the doorframe. "What? Do you think I''m going to try and end the world?"


    "No..." she muttered, "But I''m talking in general. You have a lot of promise."


    "Sure," he chuckled, raising an eyebrow. He turned his eye back to the page, turning out the door. "I''ll see you around, Emery," his voice echoed down the hall.


    Left in the quiet, Emery''s eyes fixed where he stood. The crack of the fire made her jump, shivers crawling down her spine. "I''m being paranoid," she muttered. "I''m never paranoid."


    Some secrets were best left in the dark.


    "Alexander Wren..." She laid her head back on the desk, staring up at the ceiling. Light danced with sinister shadows. She covered her eyes with her hands. "...what the hell have you started."

 The Legend of Alexander Wren

    Our story starts with a rusty old key. A key born out of blood and fire, it was said to open the very gate of sheol, death. An incredible legend, the key promised a chance to pull back someone from the grave. A life returned, if only one dared to face the gate.


    Alexander Wren was a simple lute player, an ordinary peasant. He had lost the love of his life, stolen from him by a vicious plague. He thought she was lost forever. But one day his fortunes changed.


    A gift for a song, this unusual key ended up in his hands. He knew the legends and stories, he knew what they meant. Alexander journeyed to find the gate of death, traversing great landscapes, hidden places. His quest ending deep in cursed lands, he found the gate, hidden at the top of a tower. Guarded scores of guards, it was impossible to reach, for most.


    This young lute player''s songs bordered on extraordinary. An enchanting quality to his music, he could pull even the most fearsome warrior into a deep sleep. So he played his lute, stepping over the sleeping guards, he climbed the stairs.


    The gate was waiting for him at the top, but it was not quite what he had expected. A large circle of glass hung against the wall, a chain locked around it. He slowly approached, turning the key in the lock. The chains falling from the gate, the image changed. Peering inside, he expected to see his love. A ferocious monster greeted him instead, a great dragon with the teeth of a lion and blazing gold eyes. An army of souls behind him, a swirling sea. Unauthorized duplication: this narrative has been taken without consent. Report sightings.


    The creature pounced from the mirror, Alexander jumping back. Spotting a sword hanging on the wall, he swung the mirrored blade. The monster was quick, covered in tough scaly armour. Alexander couldn''t win this fight, not with strength alone.


    Struggling against the creature, he broke away, picking his lute back up. He played a song, a song he wrote for his love. The creature cried out in pain, grimacing at the music. Alexander tiptoed towards the monster, finishing his last note. Throwing the lute, he picked back up the sword. Plunging the sword in its throat, he slayed the creature, throwing the body of a monster back into the mirror.


    A single soul slipped away from the sea, drifting closer. Alexander bit back tears, it was his love. Reaching back, he took her arm, pulling her from the mirror. She was free. The souls inside hissed, the army rushing closer, Alexander swung the chain back around the gate. Locked shut, the image disappeared, reflection returned.


    Alexander Wren left the tower, his love by his side. Running past the guards, they were together again. Never leaving each other''s side til the day they died.


    The end.