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Fanfic from a few years ago

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Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:08
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench

Hey all, SergeantWrench here,

I was browsing through some of my old files when I found a fanfic I did for this game a couple of years ago (back when revving someone included giving them half of your health). Thought you all might enjoy it, who knows? Anyway, I give to you, the story of Fellsnow Ice. (Sorry about any visual/grammatically incorrectness through the course of the story. Like a said, I wrote it a couple of years ago and copied this straight from Microsoft Word).

Chapter 1

They say we are fighting for our very existence, but I know different. They say we are stranded on this planet, but I know there are hidden reasons. They say we much reach the core to power our ship, but will they stop when we reach the core?
My name is Ice, Private Fellsnow Ice of the 10th wave. We estimate what wave you are by when you reach the HQ. The first month fighters are known as the 1st wave, the second month as the 2nd wave, and so on. I was 9 months shy of the joining age, so I was spared for the time being, but that has ended.
When I joined, I was issued the standard items: Flak Jacket, Crescent Helm with a com unit and a helm-mounted display, and a proto sword, gun, and shield. I don’t see the point of such ill-leveled gear, but I can do nothing about it. The training I go through is tireless; everyday they force us to compete in skirmishes with each other.
The point of the skirmishes, they say, is to decide which class you desire to join: Guardian, Recon, or Striker. I always loose, and everyone seems to have no patience for me. Can’t they understand I am trying? Can’t they understand I am just learning how to fight? No, they think of themselves as gods and belittle me. I wish to make my name known, I want to be feared by everyone knight on Cradle. Anger and hatred drive me; anger at those who mock me, hatred at those who belittle me.
“Private Ice, report to the front of the Mesh Hall.”
It is so difficult to become feared when one’s arsenal is so small…
“Private Fellsnow Ice!?
Dang it, “Here and accounted for, sir!”
“Report to lab number 31 for your debriefing and your upgrade.”
As the announcer turns I wonder what he means, “Well, excuse me chaps, I have to report to lab 31, unlike some of you.” Mocking laughter follows my comment, why am I such a fool at times? When I exit the exit mesh hall, I am greeted by the blinding rays of the sun and must raise my armored hand to shield my eyes, oh how I wish for a chapeau to protect my eyes. I glance down at the dirt and feel a sickening homesick emotion. Of all the element Cradle has, it seems to lack immensely in the soft white sand. Also, this planet has a twinge of the smell of burnt rubber, which makes me very nauseous. I start to move, letting my feet make trails in the dirt. Finally, I reach lab 31, this is also known as the Gremlin specialty lab. I knock on the steel door.
“Private Ice? Please come in. Come in, come in.”
I enter the lab and get a quick bear of my surroundings. There are numerous info screens with various pictures of Gremlin weapons, gear, and architecture. Also, there are 3 devices scanning 3 pieces of Gremlin gear: a weapon, shield, and mask.
“Fellsnow, mind if I call you that? Ice seems so official and awkward at the same time.”
I nod at the muscular knight who is speaking to me.
“You have been called here to be part of an experiment…Sort of at least. You have been chosen to try out captured Gremlin weapons and gear, the ones you see before are the ones you will be trying. Your job, should you accept it, will be very important, but I know that you are a brave and can handle thi…Ugh!”
The “Ugh!” was the knight being nicked by a zapper that a scientist was holding.
“Tell him the darned truth, Endo! *Sigh* What we are basically saying kid, is that you have been picked as a guinea pig to try out Gremlin gear that could malfunction at any time. We picked you only because you are practically a nobody, so there is no significant damage done if you get hurt in any way, Capish?”
I stare at him, flabbergasted at whate he just said. How could someone say that? My hatred and anger begin to raise, but I shove them both done with a swallow.
“Sir, even though you disrespect me, I will take what you have to offer, no matter the risk. Even though I am a nobody, I am not afraid to die.”
In all actuality I am absolutely terrified, but this is the only way to make a name for myself. The scientist walks over to the table and begins to explain the gear
“A wise choice on your part. Anyway, back to work. As you can see, we have numerous things. This here is the Mask of Seerus himself, and this is his personal hammer. Before you ask, we had a group of Class-A strikers attempt a capture mission. They failed in capturing Seerus, but they managed in stealing numerous of his personal items. Also, this is the Darkfang Shield, taken off of the back of a Gremlin in Depth 27. As you can plainly see, this is all higher class gear, so you cannot wear your flak jacket anymore. Instead, the HQ will supply you with a Final Flourish and a Skolver Coat. Endo will take you to the armory now, but, do you have any questions?”
I shake my head, this is all a bit too much for a recruit.
“Excellent, Endo, please take him away, oh, and don’t forget your gear, Ice.”
I grab my gear and begin to follow Endo out when I notice the tattoo upon his right arm. Citius Caedimus, swiftly we strike, the motto of the Class-A Strikers. When I see this, a question springs into my mind.
“Endo, were you one of the strikers who captured the gear?”
“I was, although, don’t think of it as an easy picnic, it was one of the hardest things I have done.”
“What was it like? I bet it was full of adventure! Could I meet the other members of the squad?”
At this statement, Endo froze and slowly turned to face me.
“Don’t ever bring up my squad again. There are things in this world that are known, that can be learned, and that never should have happened. Don’t ask about the things that never should have happened. Now follow me.”
I follow him outside where the sun is beginning its decent into the horizon. As I walk, I begin to notice others pointing at my hammer, and I cannot help but feel pride in my mighty weapon. I follow Endo into the armory where he is already going through numerous skolver coats. He throws me one that looks my size and is obviously used.
“Put it on, it should fit like a Wolver Coat, just with a higher advancement of technology and defense. And finally, here is the Flourish you were promised. It is made with a more expensive type of metal that is extremely light but also very tough. So now you can deal damage in elemental, piercing, and normal. After researching for a couple of days, the scientist discovered that the hammer deals very strongly in elemental attacks, so use it wisely.”
“This is so much awesome stuff! Thank you so much Endo. Quick question though, should there be a blood stain on my skolver coat?”
The blood stain was rather noticeably, considering it covers the entire chest of the coat.
“The blood stain means that you are wearing the coat of a deceased warrior. You should wear it proudly….Wait, that blood stain…”
Endo’s giant figure suddenly freezes again, and I watch as his fingers curl into fists.
“I never expected them to recover that coat…How did they recover that? Why would they not tell me?! Little one, go now and practice with your new gear. Leave now.”
As I turn to run out the door I see him throw up into a nearby bucket. I turned to help him, but he drew his blade and shouted at me to flee the premises. I needed no second bidding. There’s obviously more about Endo than anyone is letting on, and he seems to be struggling with his past. Nonetheless, Endo is to come second. To the skirmish area I shall go.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:09
#1
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter 2

As I walk toward the coliseum I wonder what kind of fighters I will be facing, and will I even stand a chance? Before I received my new weapons, I was just in Teir 1, the lowest of the teirs. As I approach the skirmish area, the coordinator of the day asks me my name, weapon arsenal, and which Teir I wish to be in.
“Hypothetically speaking, if I had these weapons, which Teir would I be in? I just received these as a gift and have no idea where I should practice with them in the skirmish arena.”
“Well, since you are fighting with a Final Flourish, a Skolver Armor, and some weird looking hammer and mask, you will be in Teir 3. There is a team getting ready now, if you hurry, you can join them.”
I quickly thanked him and rush off to join the team. When I got closer I heard a knight on the blue team calling for a volunteer to join for this round, and I speedily offered to help out this round. The knight looked at me with a raised eyebrow.
“Hmmm, well, I am guessing this is your first time in Teir 3 Lockdown, might I say to you, welcome. Just log your name into the computer and meet us next to the gate to the arena. Hurry, you only have 30 seconds.”
I rush over the computer and quickly type my name into it, and then I grab a booster pack and join my team next to the gate. The countdown hits the 8 minute mark and the gates fly open, allowing our entire squad to rush out, heading for the points in which they hoped to capture. As I ignite my striker pack I am thrown against the wall, apparently I am still new at trying these. I pull out my hammer and begin to maneuver my way around the bushes to the nearest point. When I arrive I see a red fighter in Vog Cub armor heading straight for me. I prepare for his attack and draw back my hammer to strike, but he does something unexpected. Instead of charging me straight on, he curves around my hammer and begins to attack me in a circular motion. The next instance I am on the ground, out of the game for 20 seconds.
I hear a voice in my earpiece.
“Ice, that was terrible. You were given that hammer to use, not as a decoration. I guess it was too much for you to handle. That knight ran circles around you. Finish this round and meet me in the training.”
I grimace, Endo did not sound pleased with my performance. When the round ended I shamefully left quickly, but I did manage to get a look at the scoreboard. My entire team had managed to score over 9000 damage, but I had done a measly 576.
When I arrived at the training hall I searched for a back entrance, but found none. Thought begin to run through my head, “Why can’t I fight? Why am I so scared of Endo? Why can’t I enter the training hall through the main entrance?” I sigh, there is not a different entrance. I open the door to the training hall and walk in. To my surprise, I cannot see Endo anywhere; perhaps he had somewhere to be and could not meet. I hear the door close behind me and turn to see Endo barring them.
“Endo, what are you doing?!”
He doesn’t answer; I slowly back up until I feel a wall hit my back. He begins to walk toward me, gradually drawing his Leviathan blade from its sheath.
“Draw your weapon, defend yourself, if you dare.”
With that he charges me, raising his blade above his head. I swiftly draw my flourish and dive to one side, feeling the wind from the blade pass my head. I land off balance and raise my shield in time to stop his back-hand stroke that sends me reeling backwards. He sheathes his sword and comes at me with his fists; I attempt to poke him, but he traps my blade under his boot and does an open palm strike to my face, which forces me to drop my blade. I am tumble backwards I see an energy orb from a Polaris heading straight for me, how could he be so fast? I attempt to raise my shield but am to slow and I feel energy coursing through my body.
I feel his body slam against mine as he drives me against the wall. My eyes are beginning to close, but I finally see my chance. Reaching down to his belt my hand finds the trigger to the Polaris. I pull it and the shock orb drives us both apart, tossing him across the room and pinning me against the wall again. I draw my hammer and swing once at him, but he is out of reach. He begins to stand up, drawing his blade again when I go for a backhanded swing. The unexpected occurs; the rockets on the hammer suddenly ignite, flying out of my hand into the face of the rising Endo. I fall to the ground, my arm dislocated and pain overwhelming me. The darkness that follows is the most welcoming aspect of this day.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:09
#2
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 3

“…You what?! You locked yourself in a training hall and made him fight you?!”
“He needed it, you should have seen him battle the Vog Cub in the skirmish, it made me quiver.”
“Endo, you must be patient with him, you know he is only a recruit that was given powerful tools.”
I slowly open my eyes to see who is reprimanding Endo. I sit up, stunned, it is Feron! The sudden movement causes me to grimace and let out a grunt of pain, which causes both knights to turn abruptly. I try to sit myself up gently with my arms, but find that my right is in a caste. I then realize that I am in a infirmary bed, not as a guest but as a patient. I see Feron studying my face, but when I make eye contact he looks away.
“How are you feeling?”
“Not too good, how long do I have to stay in the infirmary?”
“We’ll have to ask the doctors, but it would be good if you were up and about in two days, we need you to continue your experiments with the Gremlin weapons. In order for you to fully achieve the potential of the weapons, I am placing you in isolation with intense training. Endo will oversee your training personally.”
At hearing this, Endo glances my way with a look that simply terrifies me.
“Ummmm, Sir? Is there someone else who could train me until I am better, and then Endo could train me?”
“That is what is going to happen, Ice, he is overseeing your training, only occasionally training you personally.”
“Oh, then who will be…Thank you, Sir!”
Endo and Feron stand up, salute, and then leave. As I sit in silence I wonder what kind of training I would go through, and why was I to be put into isolation? For the next two days I reflect upon those questions and try to regenerate my strength. At this time, I can wait for the future.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:09
#3
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 4

My eyes snap open, alert and awake. It is one minute till 4, and the trainer is already yelling at me. I swiftly and silently stand up, stretch, and begin my 10 mile run. As I exit my small camp I caste a final glance of disdain at my trainer, then I turn and continue my journey up the mountain side. This is the third month of my isolated training, and I have improved greatly. I have been trained in all variations of weapons and guns, and the hammer I have mastered on my own.
The schedule Endo has me under is simple: 10 mile run at 4, breakfast at 5, skirmish training until lunch, which is at 12. The 20 mile obstacle course follows lunch, and it is mandatory that I am back at 2:30. Strategy lecture and demonstration occurs after the course, then dinner. After dinner is the weight section, then lights out.
As I approach a ridge along the path I pull out my hammer and swing once, and then I allow the rockets to thrust me over the gap. I look at my hammer, such a sturdy and reliable weapon. One month ago the scientist took back the shield and mask, but I have increased my arsenal immensely since then. I now have a set of armor to counter each element and enemy type. I am always tired; I never expected that becoming fighter could be so tumultuous.
When I arrive back at camp I begin to devour the ration pack that is set out for me.
“Ice.”
“Hmm? Can’t you wait until after breakfast? I only get this once a day you know.”
“Ice, look at me.”
I look up and to my surprise Endo is standing before me. In all my three months of training, he has only appeared trice, so this visit is unexpected.
“What can I do for you Endo?”
“Ice, I am here to inform you that we have decided to allow you back into public. Your training here has come to an end, but it will continue in Haven.”
“Haven, Haven…I’ve never been to Haven.”
“I know. You must begin your journey immediately if you wish to reach it before nightfall. Your new trainer will locate you once you reach Haven. There are three arenas that you must go through before you reach your destination, so leave now.”
“Whatever, thanks for letting me enter the public, even if it took you a while.”
Endo doesn’t respond, good, that shut him up. I pack up my stuff and grab my weapons. Ever since my Polaris incident with Endo I have made sure all of my armor and helmets have a maximum shock resistance. I done my gear and begin my journey through the thick forest. As I follow the path I catch glimpses of wolvers and chromos, then I see the arena before me. I enter the first one and quickly dispatch all enemies that appeared. The second arena was just as simple, but a surprise came in the middle of the third. Instead of Gremlin Trees appearing, four Trojans spawned with a horde of Mecha Dnights. I pause for a split second, and then move into instant action. I slash at the back of the different Trojans with my flourish, then switch weapons and behead numerous Mecha Knights with my Voltedge. I manage to slaughter two Trojans and the majority of the Mecha Knights when suddenly I am struck from behind and dashed against the wall. I glance up in time to see a giant sword descending upon me, and I am smashed to the ground, unable to move. The Trojan who smashed me meanders away, searching for more enemies. I was done for, there were just too many of them…I had failed.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:10
#4
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 5

I am utterly surrounded, there is no hope. Suddenly I see a message appear on my monitor. It reads, I know you failed, and I expected you too. I am coming to retrieve you, ~Endo. Great, the one person who I am trying to impress is coming to revive me. I feel as if I could die from embarrassment. A blinding light flashes and Endo appears before me, but the Mecha Knights and Trojans see him also. He is wearing a striker pack that appears to have a moded booster.
As the Trojans charge he sets down a Shivermist Buster Bomb and freezes each enemy within a 20 foot range. Endo then boosts around one of the frozen Trojans and attacks it viciously from behind. Purple combustion appears from the back of the horse warrior as Endo slays it, then he draws his Voltedge and beheads numerous Mecha Knights. Abruptly the last Trojan charges him, catching him off guard. It bashes him against the wall, stunning him and throwing him to the ground. The Trojan raises his blade, preparing to bring the might piece of iron upon my trainer. Endo quickly activates his booster, tossing himself up into the air. While in the air, he pulls out a Callahan and punctures a hole through the head of the Mohawk head of the horse. He lands as his feet as his enemy topples to the ground, then he approaches me and sends a wave of energy that reactivates my muscles. I stand up.
“Thank you, Endo, for reviving me. I was in a sort of pickle there.”
“Hmmm, you’re welcome; now let’s continue to Haven, it is just five miles away now.”
We begin to hike through the forest, and soon I see outposts that belong to the Spiral Order.
“Endo, I’ve never been to Haven, do you have any advice? I am kind of nervous…”
“I know, there are some things you should know though. First, there are numerous snobs in Haven that should be humiliated in Lockdown whenever you get the chance. Second, there are many beggars in Haven, do not give them your gear, whatever you do. Thirdly, there are many guilds in Haven, choose which one you want to be in, but choose wisely. The rest you will simply learn from experience.”
We walk in silence until we reach the bridge that is the entry way to Haven. Here, Endo pauses.
“This is where I depart as I have other duties at the outposts. Your new trainer will find you here, good luck to you, and I will see you again.”
With that, Endo walks off, leaving me in silence next to the bridge of destiny. An idea occurs to me then, and I swiftly change into my gear that was first issued to me: Flak Jacket, Crescent Helm, Proto Sword, Gun, and Shield. I am going to make an entrance into Haven like none have ever seen…A majestic appearance.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:10
#5
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 6

As I cross the bridge to Haven I see numerous guards with, as expected, terrible weapons and gear. I enter the colossal gates, pausing to stare in wonder at the mechanics that open and close them. As I continue up the stairs into the main square I am confronted with a knight in Skolver armor belittling an inexperienced and obviously new recruit. I feel my emotions of anger and hatred rise up for the first time in three months.
“You clumsy, no good, rotten piece of turd! You see my shield?! This is a Grey Owlite Shield, and you got dirt on it!”
The recruit is near tears, it is time to intervene. I walk up to the Skolver knight.
“Hey, ditch mouth, quit screeching your throat out at this recruit. Sure he got dirt on your shield, but it is a shield! It is supposed to be used, it is supposed to get dirty, you fight the undead right? They release dust every time you destroy them. Suck up your pride, princess.”
He turns to face me, his face livid with anger.
“What did you just call me? Say it to me in a skirmish, you newbie. I bet you don’t even know what a skirmish is, look at that pathetic armor you are wearing and you have no badge of what rank you are…Recruit!”
It is then that I realize that all the knights have some badge to tell what rank they are, and this knight is wearing the badge of a Vanguard. I smile at him, pleased that every thinks me to be a novice.
“Ok, I’ll fight you, Teir 3 style, let’s go.”
I walk off briskly toward the coliseum and glance behind me. Apparently my opposing this knight has attracted a crowd of some 20 odd people.
“I never did get your name, mine’s Ice, Fellsnow Ice.”
“Ha, my name is FaZo, a Vanguard of the Spiral Order.”
He looks at me expectantly, as if I should know and fear that name. I shake my head.
“Should I know you? Have we met? And can I call you Fa?”
“You are indeed new to Haven. Prepare to learn how to fear my name, as does everyone else here.”
Oh goody, my first minute in Haven and I already met one snobs who needs a toothpick to the face.
When we arrive at the arena we split and go to our appropriate sides. The majority of the crowds follows him, but there are three who follow me. One, a veteran-looking knight, comes up to me.
“Son, I hope you know what you are doing. Fazo is a ruthless fighter and he is very fast. Just remember that in the arena, good luck.”
With that, he walks out of the locker room, leaving me to equip my gear and get to the starting area. I put on my Skolver armor and helm and grab my flourish and Polaris, this guy is going to go down in style. I finally pull out my hammer, the weapon that began my endeavor to become a warrior of the Spiral Order. I run my hand over the much used handle and grasp it tightly, it is time.
I grab the booster pack on the wall as I head toward the starting gate, how should I come out of the gate? Suddenly, the gate opens leaving me no time to plan my entry. It’s now or never, I pull out my flourish and rush into the arena.
The immediate sight that I see is FaZo rushing at me, fury clearly written on his face. I pull out my pulsar and fire two trajectories into the air before pulling out my flourish again. As expected, he easily avoids them. He is carrying a Gran Faust and as he draws near I see his muscles tense up for a strike, absolutely pitiful. I quickly strike him with two hits from my flourish before he pushes me back with his Faust. He then draws his flourish and we viciously attack each other. Sounds of metal are ringing throughout the room, yet we cannot seem to hit each other with a scoring blow. We break apart, both of us at the point where one hit will finish us, it’s time for the grand finale. I draw out my trusty Warmaster Hammer and swing once, charging the rockets within. Suddenly I am carried forward, breaching the distance between us. The hammer smashes him across the face, propelling him into the glass that the spectators look through. He collapses to the ground and I watch the expressions of the audience change from shock, to horror, to awe. This has indeed been an epic entry to Haven.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:11
#6
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 7

As I walk out of the skirmish area I am confronted by the horde of spectators. Without delay questions and congratulations begin to bombard me.
“How did you do it?!”, “What was that hammer thingy you used?”, “How did you learn how to fight so well?”, “Can you please train me? I am just a newbie!”
Without warning I feel an arm encircle my right; I instinctively react, pulling my arm away from the clutches of the person. I look to see who had grabbed me when I am met by the gaze of the most beautiful woman.
I am speechless, how do I respond? She looks at me shyly and offers a smile. When she smiles I melt into an oblivion and everything blurs except for her. I can feel my heart beating madly, I am at a complete loss for words. I step closer to her, towering above her small frame. I awkwardly extend my hand and she meekly takes it. Now where do I go? The crowd has gone silent, yet I do not notice, all that matters is her. We begin to walk together, leaving the arena and the horde behind. We begin to talk.
“So um, how are you? I mean, who are you…Wait, uh…My name is Fellsnow Ice. What’s yours?”
I said that so fast I doubt she understood it, but at least I said something. She laughs.
“Well, Mr. Ice. My name is Marina.
“Well, Ms. Marina, I have a question for you. Do you know of someplace where I can stay the night? Today was my first day in Haven and I am still unsure of where everything is. If you could show me to an inn, I would be very much obliged.”
She look at me with surprise clearly on her face. “This is only your first day here, yet you managed to humiliate one of the best Lockdown players. Where did you receive your training? Where did you get your gear?”
“I’ve been in isolated training for the past three months. My training there is complete, but I am to continue it here, in the public.”
“You fascinate me so much already. You know, instead of staying in an inn I have an extra room at my house, if you would like.”
I nod my heard and she begins to lead me on a path that must be towards her house.
“Sadly, we missed the train that goes by my house and it is a five mile journey. Is that alright with you? I’ve never been on the path before, I’ve always been too scared to journey it by myself.”
As we continue on the path the trees begin to get closer and closer and the path begins to narrow. I look on either side of us and see glimpses of the red eyes of wolvers. She must see them also, because I feel her press up against me, letting go of my hand but grasping my arm instead. Suddenly, as she is walking she trips on a protruding tree root. I catch here but I know something is wrong when she tries to stand up and lets out of a cry of pain
“Are you alright?”
“No, I think I did something to my foot, it hurts to put pressure on it. Oh what are we going to do in the woods at night?!”
I glance up and down the path, trying to figure out a solution. At the first sign of me carrying her the wolvers will attack us, but she is unable to walk on her own. There is only one thing to do. I pick her up and carry her off the path to a massive tree.
“Marina, welcome to the forest, my home away from home. Allow me to be your host on this eerie night. Now, I am going to search for firewood and food, you are to stay here in the shelter of this tree. Here, put this on.”
I pull out a Hunter Fur Coat and have her put it on, then I pull an Argent Peacemaker out of my pack and put it into her hand. As I stand up she reaches up and grabs my hand; I give it a gentle squeeze then place it over the gun again.
“I’ll be right back, Marina. If anything comes don’t hesitate to shoot it.”
I swiftly enter into the woods and draw my flourish, keeping my eyes and ears alert for a sign of a wolver. There is a slight movement to my left and I drive my blade through the head of an adult wolver. Just one more of these and I’ll have enough food for the both of us.
I stand up, listening for more wolvers to come, but all I hear are the trees and the simple wisp of the wind. This doesn’t make sense, if anything, the wolvers should have been swarming this area by now, they love the smell of their own kind’s death. I sniff the air, that smell…A Snarbolax…Marina.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:12
#7
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter 8

I rush back towards our camp, praying that I’m not too late. Through the trees I began to catch glimpses of movement around the tree I had left Marina. I drew my flourish, bracing for my encounter with this mighty beast. I hear a scream come from the tree, and I see the Snarbolax’s giant claws tearing into the trunk of the tree.
I give a shout and see the giant black head turn towards me. The blazing red eyes stare into mine, then they are lost as I tackle it. Immediately I am thrown and the Snarbolax is charging me. I circle around, my blade bouncing off the armor that encircles the creature. I pull out my Callahan and ready the charge attack. When the Snarbolax tries to bite me I release the bullet onto the center of its head.
The bullet itself has no deathly effect to a creature of this size, but it does stun it, allowing me to get closer with my blade. As the black beast tries to maneuver away I catch its jaw with my hands. I force its mouth open, but I only have a few seconds before the stun wears off. I quickly pull out an Electron Vortex bomb and toss it into the open mouth. I clamp the jaw shut, holding it into place with all my strength.
The stun has finally worn off, but the bomb has ignited. Creating a swirling well of gravity within the belly of the Snarbolax the bomb explodes. I am thrown clear, but the beast is not so lucky. Standing up I see that all that remains are a few claws and teeth.
“Marina?! Where are you?”
“I’m up here, Ice. Please help me.”
I rush over to the tree that she is in and she drops into my arms.
“Are you ok? Did you get hurt in any way? Marina?”
She begins to sob and tremble gently.
“I was so scared. When it came it looked right at me. I managed to climb the tree but I dropped the gun. It almost had me. Ice, don’t let me go again, please don’t let me go.”
I hold her tightly, promising myself to always be there for her. Her tears are beginning to stain my coast, but I do not care, she is all that matters. I pick her up and begin the journey back to Haven. She puts her arms around my neck and falls asleep, leaving me in the silence of the rising sun.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:13
#8
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter 9

When we reach Haven I immediately search for an inn. After purchasing a room for two I set her on one of the beds then collapsed from exhaustion upon the other. Three hours later I awake, completely refreshed yet famished. I look over and see that Marina is still sound asleep. Easing myself out of bed I exit the room. Now, to find something to eat.
I search around the Town Square and finally find a suitable restaurant. Ordering a meal for two I turn and prepare to exit the building; it was then that I notice all the stares I am receiving from the other people in the structure. I quickly escape the edifice but accidently bump into an officer of the Spiral Order.
“Oh, pardon me sir…Oh, ma’am.”
“Hmm, Snowfell Ice I presume?”
“It’s actually Fellsnow Ice, and yes to your question.”
“My name is Officer Sophia and I am overseeing your training while you are in Haven. You are to report to HQ immediately for your tasks.”
She struts off, allowing her guns to on her thighs to sway back and forth. I begin to head back to the inn when her voice stops me.
“Immediately Fellsnow, immediately!”
I turn and follow her, my heart filled with anxiety, what about Marina? I subconsciously begin to eat the food in my hand, my mind wandering all other the place. I arrive at the HQ and follow Sophia inside. We instantaneously turn left and enter a side room where Feron is waiting.
“Excellent, you found him.”
“I never fail, sir.”
With that Sophia draws out two of her guns and lays them on the table. Feron stares at them for a moment then looks up at me.
“Ice, your training here will be rather simple. You will be trained by training others. You start tomorrow by escorting new apprentices through the different depths of the Clockworks. I expect to see you soon, you are dismissed.”
I exit, my mind thinking only of Marina. I hurry back to the inn and find her in the lobby, pacing swiftly and with concern on her face. Upon seeing me she rushes up and jumps into my arms.
“I’m so sorry Marina. I was called suddenly into the HQ for debriefing on my training…I start tomorrow.”
“Oh, why do you leave me now? Don’t you know that I love you, Ice?”
“Marina, I love you too, but I must continue in my training.”
We stand there for a moment in each other’s embrace, enjoying the moment. Suddenly a messenger of the Spiral Order rushes up to me.
“Sir Ice! Sophia has requested you at the front of Haven, a force of Teir 3 flame thrower Gremlins are approaching the gates. You are to report immediately.”
I glance at Marina, but she puts a finger up to my lips.
“It’s ok, Ice. Just remember to come back to me.”
“How could I forget?”
“Sir! We must leave immediately!”
I turn to the messenger then rush off in the direction of the front gate, unbuckling the safety clip on my sword and removing the safety on my Polaris and Blitz Needle. As I reach the gate it is apparent that the guards were unable to hold even the first half, as the Gremlins have reached the mid-point. Sophia is waiting for me, pacing impatiently in front of the gate with two Blitz Needles in her hand.
“Ice! It’s about time, next time, don’t go on a picnic with some lady love of yours. We have to stop these Gremlins before the reach the main gate, quick march!”
We rush at the advancing Gremlins, me drawing my sword and she send rounds of needles into the enemy. There are roughly 75 Gremlins with five Tree Lumbers, this will be rather fun. The Gremlins are preparing to fire a wave of fire at us. Sophia stops and begins to pepper them with shards of bullets as I rush with my Flourish upraised. Yelling, we clash. Instantly I am enshrouded with enemies, there are just too many! I stab a Gremlin through the face then turn and remove the flame thrower out of an attacking one.
I dash out of the crowd when Sophia yells at me to duck. I hit the floor just as she releases 32 explosive needles into the Gremlins. Standing up I rush to join her.
“Ice! We have to stop them up before they get to close, give me one of your swords.”
“I swiftly hand her my other flourish and we hastily attack out enemies. It was like magic, our team work was perfect. We split up to either side of the bridge and attack them from the sides. Suddenly I see a Lumber Tree about to strike Sophia…I cry out to her but she cannot hear, there is only one thing to do. I rush at her catching her unaware.
“Ice! What are you..GA!”
I shove her out of the way then feel the brunt force of the Lumber’s huge fist. I am propelled over the side of the bridge, feeling certain I will die. As I fall I try to scream but the wind tears my voice away. I stare down as the river gets nearer; I close my eyes and brace for the impact.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:13
#9
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter Numero 10

I hit the water with a resounding splash and am instantly covered by water. My body becomes paralyzed for a second then I surface, spluttering for air. I pull out my hammer and swing once, igniting the rockets that could be my saving grace. It works! I am suddenly launched into the air and land upon the gravelly shore, coughing up masses of water. I brace myself and stick two fingers into the back of my mouth and feel the remainder of the water flood its way up through my mouth onto the ground before me. Still sputtering I stand up and access my bearings. Suddenly a vice-like grip grasps my neck and slams my forehead into a rock on the ground. Feeling blood begin to trickle down I am forced to stand up. My mind is still in confusion when I notice that I am nearing the tree line.
I wait for a couple of seconds then drive my elbow into my opponents gut, momentarily knocking the wind out of him. As he bends over to catch his breath I drive my fist into his face, forcing him back and giving me a chance to draw my hammer. I take a swing and ignite the rockets, ferrying me over to him for the final blow. I look for his face as my hammer blurs through the air, but I can’t find it. I feel a hand appear next to mine on the handle of my weapon then stars arrive in my head as he head butts me. I release the hammer and stumble backwards, stunned for the second time that day.
I rise slowly and watch as my opponent weighs the hefty weapon in his hand, this cannot be good. Looking up at me he reaches behind his back and unstraps a Warmaster Hammer. He gives a short laugh and tosses me back my weapon, it is rather apparent that he wants a duel. I charge him, delivering a war cry as my feet pound against the gravel.
The rockets ignite on my weapon and I attack him with the ferocity of a Rabid Snarbolax. He dodges to the side just as my hammer indents the ground where he was standing, then he is behind me! I make a half turn and am suddenly smashed on my right side. I sail through the air and collide head first with a tree. I fall to the ground, watching through closing eyes as five more shadows emerge from the surrounding darkness.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:14
#10
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter 11

“Welcome back, Private Ice.” That voice is familier…I sit up with a start and see Endo sitting beside me.
“Endo! You’re here! Whaaa....How?” I slight grin registers on his face, then he gives a three-burst whistle. Instantly five knights appear around us, each armed with an arsenal that would terrify the Vanaduke.
“Ice, I would like to introduce to you the other candidates of Operation Crimson Hammer. You were the first to be chosen, and these five have followed in your footsteps. Knights! Step forward and state your name and specialty.”
A knight in a Skolver armor and helm steps forward.
“My name is Keyso, Keyso Bladderblast. I specialize in close quarters combat, as you witnessed in the fight that we had earlier. I have one thing that sends me on a hammer spree and that is people making fun of my last name.”
He pulls out his hammer to add emphasis and I quickly nod to show my understanding. The rest of the knights each take a turn to step forward and state their name and specialty. There is Snider the guns specialist, Hex the pyro maniac who has an obsession with the Ash of Agni, Blance the shock expert, and Chon the mid-range professional. After the introductions were completed Endo steps forward.
“Ice, you cannot stay here. The Spiral Order will be looking for you and it is best that they do not know of the location of the members of Operation Crimson Hammer. You are too leave immediately, Keyso will escort you to the bridge.”
“Wait, why? I want to stay here and train with the members. I realize now that I have so much to learn in the art of weaponry, but I cannot learn just by staying in Haven.”
“I understand that, but now is not a very good time for you to join our group. I need you in Haven for reasons you do not understand yet.”
“Reasons I don’t understand? Explain them to me! First off I was supposedly chosen for an experiment with Gremlin gear, and then I learn that it was an entire operation. Next off I was put into isolation for four months then I was just thrust into the public lifestyle of Haven. Finally, I learn that there are in fact five more members of the operation and each one is wielding a hammer like mine and each one is a much better fighter than I. I’m tired of being kept in the dark about everything…Either you tell me something or I give this location to the Spiral Order.”
Endo sighs then motions for me to sit down.
“Your threat isn’t that back in the first place, but you are right, it is time that you know what is going on. Everything started before you and I met, when I was being debriefed for the Seerus mission. That is where it all began…”

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:15
#11
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter 12- Told by Endo

I had just finished my training for the day when I was called into the HQ for an unknown reason. I was terrified yet excited, this was my first time being called into somewhere important. As I entered the brick structure my stomach began to twinge from anxiety. Feron was waiting for me with Rhendon at his side. I quickly snap to attention and salute.
“Sir! Striker Endo reporting as requested.”
“Well met Endo. You are here because you have been chosen for an important task. Our spies have caught wind of a meeting between the Jelly King and Lord Seerus. They are meeting in the Jelly King’s Royal Palace, and this is where we shall take Seerus. You and four others of your choice are to invade the palace and escort Seerus from the premises, in chains. This is a covert operation and will be treated as such. The people you choose are to be strikers, in and out of the palace as fast as you can. Inform me before you leave, you are dismissed.”
I exited the building and immediately searched for my closest friends. I only picked three friends to take with me. I picked Limzo the bomber, Boromis the gunner, and Syndis the swordswoman. We all planned to depart the next day and Rhendon promised to take care of my daughter. With all loose ends tied up I departed with my squad.
The journey to the palace was relatively easy filled with minor obstacles such as a pack of wolvers. When we arrived at the Jelly King’s Palace everything seemed somewhat normal yet out of place.
“Ok everyone, this is an in and out mission, speed run. We’ve all run through the JK simulation a thousand times, we know the layout, we know what to expect. Let’s get this show on the road.”
We enter through the gate and jellies instantly appear, barring our path. We shred through them with our Acherons and Gran Fausts, always on the watch for any sign of Gremlins. We pass through the first level of the palace with ease and reach the elevator.
“Alright, hit the button, down we go.”
We stand in silence as we travel down to the next depth. I close my eyes and let out a small but audible sigh, this is all wrong. The gate opens and we charge out, taking down the giant Lumber Trees and jellies that appear in our way. Almost with the same ease as the level before we complete the Red Carpet Runaround area and pass through the last arena. Here we go, the level down to the Jelly King’s personal chamber. I look at my team and nod at Limzo who is waiting for the signal to hit the button on the elevator. As we descend I notice Boromis unclipping all of his guns and removing the safeties.
“You ready for this?”
He looks at me and nods, not wanting to damage the silence any more than I have. The elevator comes to an abrupt stop and we enter the King’s chamber…But there is no one here. There are no guards or mini-jellies anywhere.
“Team, split up, search each corner. How could they anticipate our coming? This just doesn’t make sense.” It was then that I noticed the hammer and mask that lie upon a table next to the throne. The Warmaster Hammer and the Mask of Seerus, so he is here…somewhere.
Suddenly a Gremlin snicker infiltrates the room and I draw my flourish, looking for the source of the noise. Oh dear God…Help me.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:16
#12
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 13- Still told by Endo

The curtains upon the walls draw back revealing hordes of Gremlins and Spike Jellies. My team and I instantly form a square in the middle of the room, each person looking into the eyes of at least 200 enemies. What have I walked into?
I see a Gremlin larger than the rest break the ranks and approach our defense wall.
“Excellent, you are all here. Endo, the A-Class Striker, Limzo the renowned bomber, Boromis the feared gunner, and Syndis the blade-master. Welcome to the beginning of the new realm where Gremlins and the Spiral Knights HQ rule all who dwell on Cradle. I am Lord Seerus, the soon to be ruler of this fine land.”
I stare at him quizzically, what the heck does he mean? I hear noises from my team that confirms my suspicion, that no one know what he is talking about.
“What do you mean by this new realm? Gremlins and the Spiral Order will never team up. We are trying to leave this planet, yet you all seem convinced that we are attacking you. We are sworn enemies, and those that the Gremlins rule are always oppressed. The HQ would never allow that to happen, we will fight against you.”
“Endo, that is why you are here. The HQ has betrayed you, as was the plan from the beginning. They knew that you would resist their plans, so they decided to dispose of you with your closest friends. I agreed to help destroy you.”
I stare at him with disbelief upon my face…This was all a trap? No…This can’t be.
“No! You lie!”
“Don’t believe me, eh? I guess you will never find out, Endo.” With that Seerus motions and the hordes of enemies begin to advance upon us.
“Team! The nearest elevator is past Seerus…We must get to there. We move as one. Limzo, toss a couple of Nitro’s into the hordes to scatter them. Boromis, use your Callahan and Polaris. Let’s move!”
As we begin to move the Gremlins begin to release fire charges at our group, forcing us to use our precious boost power to avoid being hit. Suddenly the ground below us begins to shake and we are thrust upward as spikes appear beneath us from the Jellies.
“Keep moving! We have to make it!”
Suddenly a hammer appears out of nowhere and smashes Syndis across the face. She stumbles back into a swarm of advancing Jellies and is forced to swing her Faust wildly to avoid being hit. I stare at Seerus who is holding the hammer, grinning at me.
“Isn’t this fun, Endo? Your group about to be obliterated yet you are unable to do anything. By the way, Rhendon said he will take good care of your daughter. Good thing you left her in his care. GAA!”
He stumbles back as I draw another knife from my belt and prepare to throw it at him. I throw the knife at him but it enters into a Jelly instead, dash it all! Limzo appears next to me.
“Endo! We have to go! Leave him, we must get out of here before…oh crap.”
The Jelly King appears to the left side of us and begins to move on our position.
“Where’s Syndis and Boromis!? We can’t leave them…”
“Boss, they’re dead! Let’s go! Uhhhhhhh!”
One instant he was talking in front and me and the next instant a Jelly spike is protruding from his chest. I stare in horror as the blood begins to form a giant patch on the front of my friend’s coat…This can’t be happening.
“It’s happening Endo! And you are next!”
I fly backwards, propelled by Seerus’s hammer. I land just a few feet from the elevator and stand up to get on. Seerus is charging at me…Time to end this. As he swings his hammer I duck below the blow and send a Polaris charge into his gut which sends shock waves through his body. I stand up and deliver an open palmed strike to his face and pull off his mask, tossing it onto the elevator behind me. He is a hideous creature, a Gremlin who was injected by lethal toxins in order to make himself stronger. Our eyes meet for one second and in that second I realize that everything he said was true.
“You know now, Endo. Finish it.”
I pull out a Vortex bomb and place it on his chest as I grab the hammer from his fist and step onto the elevator. As I travel upward I see his body tear apart as the gravity on his chest crumples everything around it. I sit down and stare at his mask…This was all a trap…Everything. Feron, Rhendon, Derss, everyone was trying to take over Cradle…And I was the only one who could stop them. I stand and throw up over the side of the railing. I was to die just like my team died, but I didn’t. I sit down and curl up in one of the corners of the elevator as it quickly rises through the each of the depths. As I lay there I begin to feel tears streaming down my face, I’m so sorry, Limzo, Syndis, Boromis. Please forgive me.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:16
#13
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 14- Back to Ice

“Well Ice, now you know what happened. When I returned to Haven I was greeted by great enthusiasm that I knew to be false. Feron immediately set me to work at distant outposts…I didn’t even get to see my daughter. I am not allowed back into Haven, that is an unspoken rule. But I have found some leeway. Since I am so far away from the HQ I am able to spend much of my time training these five you see before you. My plan is to destroy those who are corrupt within the Spiral Order, and to do this I need someone on the inside…I need you, Ice.”
I stare at Endo, shock and disbelief registering through my system all at the same time. This is why Endo has seemed so set against everything that the Head Quarters does…They destroyed his life. He is a survivor who was not supposed to survive. I stand up.
“Endo, you have my allegiance. I will return to Haven…And by the way, do you know what happened to your daughter?”
“Rhendon corrupted her mind. She believes that everything I do is evil and is set on betraying me. I should have never trusted that red devil, Rhendon. If you meet her, please beware. As far as I know she is just a tool of the Spiral Order. Her name is Marina.”
I gasp and back away from him…”That can’t be right. Marina is so gentle…”
“You’ve meet her!? Ice, get away from her. She will betray you. Do not trust her, do not tell her anything of me.”
I stand there, why must everything be corrupted? “I believe that she is good, Endo. She is nice to me, and I cannot reject her.”
Endo sighs and shakes his head. “So be it, Ice. Just remember that I did warn you. Just stay alive. Keyso, escort our new member to the bridge.”
I follow Keyso into the tree line and glance once more at Endo who is still staring at me. I clear his warning about Marina from my mind and follow Keyso in the silence, but it doesn’t work. How could Feron be a tyrant? How could Marina be a traitor? Everything is just plain out confusing.
We arrive at the bridge and Keyso vanishes into the tree line. Not just a week ago I was at this very bridge about to begin a new life, but now I wish I had just been mistaken for an enemy and shot through the head. I sigh and begin to cross the chasm to my ultimate depression.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:17
#14
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 15

I approach the gates of Haven, my armor encased in mud with specks of gravel and leaves implanted spontaneously. I should be entering with the mood of a hero, but all I can think about is what Endo said. As I walk through town square knights begin to notice and swarm around me.
“Ice!?”, “You’re alive!”, “How are you…what the heck?!”, “Ice…You’re…*faint*”
I can’t take it anymore. I pull out my hammer and ignite the rockets which ferry me to a nearby rooftop. From there I begin to zig-zag my way across other roofs and soon lose my fans, good. I descend to the street and make my way to the inn where I stayed with Marina, hopefully she is still there.
When I enter the inn I make a distinct beeline for the bedroom before anyone can recognize me. I break into a mad dash as I hear the sound of chairs scrapping against wood floors as people easily identified me.
As I enter the room I toss a Shivermist Buster into the hallway which gives me a few seconds of breathing space….She is not here. The only other place she could be is the HQ…Which is fairly close to where I am now.
As the first knight enters into my room I jump out of the window and land with a solid thump. I travel the distance to the Spiral Order Head Quarters in little time, but it was the words as I entered the door that made my blood go cold.
“…With Ice out of the way we can continue with our operation. Out next nearest threat is Endo. Marina, can you take care of him? Use your charms….Oh…”
Feron trails off as our eyes lock and surprise registers on his face. Marina is sitting at the table with a flourish at her side and Rhendon is standing behind her. She slowly rises and my gaze shifts to meet hers.
“So, Endo was truthful to me. This is all a lie, everything you trained me in to believe was false. Then I became a possible threat when I defeated FaZo and you have been planning on disposing me ever since. So what did you do? You sent in Marina, Endo’s own daughter, to manipulate me and distract me from my actual work. You lied to me.”
Marina gives a nod of her head and a slight grin registers on her face. Feron looks at something behind me and nods. I whirl around…but there is nothing there. Suddenly a warning pops up on my helmet display, a recon! Before I can respond Derss appears and knocks me out with a single blow from a Divine Avenger.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:17
#15
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 16

I awake in a dark room with a little gap of dwindling daylight filtering in through the iron bars. I sit up and look around, I’m definitely in prison. I attempt to stand up but find that my wrists and ankles are shackled to the wall and floor. Of all the nerve they would have!
“Let me out! Can anyone hear me?! My name is Fellsnow Ice, I’ve been wrongly accused! Help!”
I wait in silence for a response but there is only silence. Abruptly I hear a shuffle occur outside of the door. There is a sharp yelp then the sound of a body falling to the ground. The latch slides open and a silhouette steps into the room.
“Marina! You traitor! How dare you show your face here, if I was unbound my hands would be around your fragile throat. I demand that you release me!”
“Ice…that’s what I’ve come to do; I’m going to get you out of here, but I need you to trust me. I never meant for all of this to go this far, I really did love you, Ice.”
She slowly walks over and kneels next to me, her hand on my leg.
“Ice, you are going to have to trust me. Can you do that?”
“Marina, I can’t…”
Before I can finish she leans forward and kisses me on the lips. She holds this position for a few moments before pulling away, a smile dancing on her lips.
“Can you trust me now, Ice?”
I simply nod and she stands, releasing my limbs from the confines of the shackles.
We rush out of the room and make our way to the gates of Haven. When we arrive she stops and motions that she needs to speak.
“Ice, I have to stay here. They are going to be looking for you and I need to be here to lead them in the wrong direction. I love you, Ice.”
I embrace her, allowing her voice to carry through the layers of my fur coat.
“Please take a message back to my father. Tell him…That what happened to you will happen to him!”
She shoves me away and I fall to the ground, her dagger in my stomach.
“Thank you for being a willing messenger, good bye forever.” She turns and walks into Haven as the gates close, leaving me in death’s arms.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:18
#16
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 17

I still for a few minutes after she leaves then slowly sit up. Pulling out a remedy capsule I apply the healing salve to my gut and wait as it seals. It will have to work until I can get to a real doctor. I slowly stand, leaning my weight against the solid wood gates. I must warn Endo.
I take a step and my legs buckle beneath me, forcing my hands to create a vice-like grip on the bridge railings. I sluggishly move down the length of the bridge, easily evading the half-asleep guards. As I approach the barricade at the end of the bridge I reach down to draw my flourish. I gasp, it’s not there! Of course, how could I have been such an idiot? They took my weapons.
I sit in silence, pondering my predicament. Planning on a course of action I crawl behind a dozing knight. Smashing his head against the wall I remove his armor and helm as well as his energy card. Donning his gear I stride as best as I can toward the main gate, occasionally grunting from pain.
“Halt! Who goes there?”
“Er…Keyso Enamorock returning from the scouting trip in the South Woods!”
“Excellent, welcome back Keyso. Hoi down there, open the gates!”
I enter Haven and immediately head in the direction of the armory. Going up to the door I enter the guards energy card and enter the establishment. Swiftly scouring the sword section I find my three beloved weapons and attach them to their appropriate places. Next is the gun aisle. I remove my AP, Blitz Needle, and Polaris from their ranks and remove my bombs from the explosives station.
I rush out of the room and collide with a dark figure. I stumble to the ground but quickly stand, ready to fight. As I raise my eyes the barrel of a charged Blitz meets my gaze.
“Ice?!” The weapon drops, revealing its owner to be none other than Sophia.
“Ice, you’re alive?! They told me you had died on the bridge…They told me they had found your remains on the banks of the Great River. How are you standing here?!”
“Sophia, I can’t talk right now…I’m not supposed to be alive, I have to get out of Haven.”
“Ice, come to my apartment. It is on the outskirts of Haven and it is safe. Besides, you owe me a story.”
She leads me to her house where I relate the entire story, beginning from my training with Endo to where I am now. She was flabbergasted, and even cared for my wound with the training of a loving mother. I fell asleep on her couch and remained there until the next day.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:18
#17
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Chapter 18

When I awake I find Sophia sitting in the chair across, watching me. “It’s almost noon, you need to go warn Endo.”
I stand up and stretch, my wound almost completely healed.
“You really know how to fix a wound.”
“I was a medic before I became a fighter. I decided that it was easier to cause the wounds than to fix the wounds. Ice, I want you to know that I am here for you. I’ll help you in whatever way I can.”
“Thank you Sophia, but I can’t love anyone right now…Not after what Marina did to me. It’s too soon.”
She simply nods and accepts my reply. “Well, go get them, Ice.”
I stand up and leave her apartment, secretly cursing myself for not saying yes. But I must have my mind focused.
“There he is! You! Fellsnow Ice! You are under arrest!”
My head snaps up and I see a horde of Spiral Order Security rushing towards my position with Avengers. Drawing my own GF I charge into their midst and lay waste to their feeble attempts at capturing me. Suddenly that same warning appears on my screen, but this time I am ready. I jump backwards as Derss materializes out of now where and swings at my head with her DA. I pull out my Polaris to shove her back when I am thwacked from behind by a Security Guard. Derss sees this opportunity and finishes her strike on, knocking me out for a second time…This cannot be happening.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:19
#18
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Sergeantwrench
Chapter 19- The final chapter (ABOUT TIME!)

I awake the sound of leering crowds and booing hordes. My head is in a block of wood and my fists are chained behind me. Feron is standing in front of my with Marina, Derss, and Rhendon observing from a slightly further distance.
“Fellsnow Ice. Charged with an attempt at overthrowing the Spiral Order is to be executed for his crimes. Are there any that stand in his defense?”
As Feron finishes his speech five hooded figures step forward.
“We challenge. We challenge as you, we challenge you Feron. Those of Operation Crimson Hammer stand in defiance against you, and we will see your fall.”
With that statement Endo and his trainees through off their garbs and draw their weapons. Feron looks down at Endo with disdain.
“I had planned on you coming to this ceremony. Ice, you are released. Thank you for cooperating and bringing Endo out to us. I knew we could count on you!”
Endo stares at me with disbelief and I am shocked at what Feron has just said.
“Endo, he is lying. I would never betray you!” Feron cuts me off suddenly.
“Ice, you can stop acting now, we have him in our grasps. Guards! Seize Endo and his team!”
As the guards begin to swarm around Endo and the other trainees I draw my hammer and glare at Feron.
“Fight me, you coward!”
Feron pulls out a Leviathan Blade and begins to circle around me. We each wait for an opening to show itself. He is the first to make a mistake. As his left crossing in front of his right I lunge at him with my hammer, but he is faster than I imagined. My hammer swishes through thin air and I only manage to block his counter-attack. Backing away I look to see Endo and his squad valiantly holding off the guards.
Feron attack and I throw my hammer at him as well as draw my flourish. As he is momentarily distracted I go in for the death lunge, but my blade is stopped by Marina’s.
“Marina…No.”
She begins a fiery dance around me, her blade flickering in and out of different openings. It requires all of my training to defend myself, then she jumps back and I am bombarded by a barrage of needles from Rhendon. I fall to my knees, Feron standing above me.
“You are released from your service, Fellsnow Ice.”
He raises his blade and I hear a cry from Endo. Suddenly Feron’s face is enshrouded from needle residue as he is blasted from a Blitz. I look to see who my rescuer is and find Sophia standing there, a grim yet determined look on her face. Feron falls back, his face deformed from Sophia’s smoking gun.
Marina, Derss, and Rhendon slowly advance on us, forming a triangle of sorts around us.
“Sophia, thank you for what you did. But I’m afraid it was useless, we are going to die.”
Suddenly a roar erupts from the crowd and Endo bounds out, a bloodied flourish in one hand and a Leviathan in the other. He levels the heavier of the swords at Marina.
“Blood of my blood, how could you betray me? Draw your sword and face me.”
Marina stands with her sword in her hand, quivering. She looks up at Endo with fear in her eyes, but he does not regard it. He brings his Leviathan down in a massive arc but stops a fraction of an inch away from her head. She looks at him, a smile beginning to grow on her face.
“Father, you wouldn’t kill your own daughter, would you?”
Endo stutters and I can see his muscles tensing as he is trying to finish her off.
“Endo, you are weak. I will not be weak like you are!”
As she yells this her blade enters Endo’s body and exits out of his back. He yells in pain and the Leviathan Blade jerks downward in reaction to the pain. It enters Marina’s skull and she crumples to the floor.
Feron suddenly appears in my vision and I whirl as he swings his blade at me. Ducking beneath it I plant my Argent Peacemaker under his chin and squeeze the trigger. Brains and gore fly out of the top of his head as elemental rounds enter and exit his head. As Feron falls I see Derss and Rhendon freeze, then turn and run in opposite directions.
By this time the crowd has stopped fighting and turned to witness the interaction between father and daughter. I stand there, in shock. Everyone I knew and trusted suddenly gone with one swing of a sword and one shot of a gun. Endo, Marina, Feron, I trusted each of them but two of them let me down. I turn to Sophia, despair and hopelessness on my face. She sees this as a permission slip and embraces me, holding me up as my knees begin to buckle.
“Sophia, help me. Help me, please.”
“Shhh, shh. Ice, it’s ok. I’m here.”
She continues to hold me as the tears begin to stream down my face. This is no way to act in front of the public, but I can’t help it. She leads me away to her apartment where she leaves me on the couch and begins to scurry around packing different supplies.
“What are you doing? Why are you packing?”
“Isn’t it obvious, Ice. Derss and Rhendon are still alive, and they will try to kill you. We have to leave, both of us. We are going to the wilderness. You and I both know how to survive, and we can be with each other always.”
“I’d like that. Thank you Sophia…”
I am interrupted as she kisses me, but this is not a manipulative kiss, this is a genuine kiss. She holds me for a second before standing up.
“Come, Ice. I’m not going to act like a mother for you always. We can enjoy each other after we escape.”
I stand up and take her hand in mine.
“This is to the future, Sophia. May it bring joy to us both.”
She laughs silently and begins to hum and little song to herself. Before long her words become illegible and I am enticed by charm.

Land of bear and
Land of eagle
Land that gave us birth and blessing
Land that pulled us ever homewards
We will go home across the mountains

We will go home, we will go home
We will go home, across the mountains
We will go home, we will go home
We will go home, singing our song

Hear our singing,
Hear our longing
We will go home across the mountains

We will go home, we will go home
We will go home, across the mountains
We will go home, we will go home
We will go home, we will go - home.

She finishes softly and stares up at me.
“Let’s go home to our wilderness. Across the mountains, far away. You and I, Sophia.”
We grab hands and exit Haven, entering our lives into the great unknown.

Wed, 09/24/2014 - 16:21
#19
Sergeantwrench's picture
Sergeantwrench
Done and Done

Let me know what you all think. If there should be another story following this one, let me know. It'd be interesting writing a story in the correct tense and whatnot. This story still makes me cringe at times. But anyway! Now I depart, leaving you with...I dunno...Laters

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