EMBERS OF THE SHENRYE Davey Mignott (Artwork by Harutaka.) http://harutaka.deviantart.com/
Nov 16, 2015
EMBERS
OF THE
SHENRYE Davey Mignott
(Artwork by Harutaka.)
http://harutaka.deviantart.com/
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
2 | P a g e
Before this book begins, I would like to take
the time to thank several different people.
Firstly, I want to thank my family and close
friends for the constant love and support they
have shown me throughout my life and for
pushing me to strive for greatness. Secondly, I
want to thank the people who took the time to
edit this story and help make it the best that it
could possibly be.
To:
Mrs. Crabtree,
Mrs. Potter,
Mrs. Gharib-Thedell,
Ms. Vozely,
Ms. Ashara Williams,
And my consultant, Mrs. Kayla Bulster,
Thank you for taking the time out of your
busy schedules to read this and offer advice,
opinions, and suggestions on how to improve
upon my writing.
And lastly, I want to thank YOU, the reader,
for checking this out. I hope you enjoy the
story Davey Mignott
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
3 | P a g e
Table of Contents
Chapter 1 | stranger Pg. 4
Chapter 2 | shattered tranquility Pg. 10
Chapter 3 | fly or die Pg. 19
Chapter 4 | no place like home Pg. 28
Chapter 5 | foundation Pg. 40
Chapter 6 | the hidden sector Pg. 52
Chapter 7 | and the winner is Pg. 63
Chapter 8 | into the abyss Pg. 72
Chapter 9 | land of syren Pg. 87
Chapter 10 | awaken Pg. 100
Chapter 11 | hollow Pg. 110
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
4 | P a g e
CHAPTER 1
STRANGERS
FELIX, BEHIND YOU!!! Dontae yelled.
Norah heard an ear-splitting crash before diving
behind some wooden crates. She waited for a
moment before lifting her head, peering at the
outline of a giant, brooding man standing before a
large hole in the wall. The man raised his hand and
the air began to smell strongly of burnt. A burst of
electricity struck through the roof and landed
directly in his hand, running up and down like a
slithering snake.
There you are, you little punk, the man said in a
deep, husky voice before hopping over the fallen
rubble. Norah cursed under her breath.
An Obian marauder, here of all places?! she
whispered in disbelief.
Obians were a race of creatures that had an
anatomy similar to human beings. Or so Norah had
been told. The only difference is that Obians had
abnormally pointy ears and some had the ability to
manipulate an element of nature. Those Obians
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
5 | P a g e
were called Shenrye. The majority of Shenrye
worked for the Esye, defenders of Brion, a large
city surrounded by a massive circular wall. Few
who had no interest in that occupation or living
inside the city, left to join the many different
factions of marauders, looking to pick off the
innocent who happened to be in the wrong place at
the wrong time.
As she thought about that, she heard a loud metal
clang over to her right and the sound of several
crates falling over.
Don't get in my way. a voice called out from
where the crates fell. Another clang rang
throughout the warehouse before it became silent
again.
We both know I can't do that. Dontae said before
the two resumed their battle. Norah thought about
going over to help Dontae but Felix needed help.
How did I get myself involved in this mess? Norah
thought as she leapt over the crates, running
towards the hole in the wall. She paused for a
moment to survey the scene. She saw the man
holding Felix tightly by the throat, and holding a
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
6 | P a g e
ball made entirely out of electricity in his free
hand. Norah slowly unsheathed two small, silver,
and wickedly curved blades and silently made her
way to him in an attempt to knock him out. As she
approached, a piece of rubble unknowingly
appeared in her path and she accidently kicked it
out the way.
Another pest to deal with. the man said before
backhanding Norah viciously in the face with his
free hand, knocking her down. Her sword flew out
of her hand and clattered against the ground. The
world seemed to turn upside down as she tried to
sit up but she found herself unable to do so.
Now, where were we? the man turned his
attention back to Felix. Ah yes. Do you have ANY
IDEA, how long weve been looking for you and
your friend? His voice bellowed in Felixs ears.
Er...are you referring to me and Dontae? Felix
asked.
YES. the man said, spitting all over Felixs face.
It mustve been a really long time because your
breath is five seconds from making me pass out,
Felix said as he wiped his face, disgusted, Your
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
7 | P a g e
punch almost knocked me out but, man, Im sure
your breath could do the job just as easily.
The sound of Felix getting slapped in the face rang
clearly throughout the air.
Serves him right, Norah thought for smart-
mouthing a stranger with malicious intent.
I dont have time for your little games, Felix, the
man said. Hand over the package and I will make
sure that you and your little friends leave here,
alive.
Package? Norah groaned. She had no idea what
Felix and the stranger were talking about.
I dont believe, the stranger said as he walked
over to Norah and kicked her in the stomach, I
was talking to you. Norah cried in anguish before
spitting blood out of her mouth. Seeing it made her
extremely nauseous.
She slowly turned her head towards Felix who
cracked a smile, then threw his head back and
began laughing as if he just heard the funniest joke
in the world.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
8 | P a g e
What are you laughing for? the stranger asked
nervously.
I dont have it.
WHAT!? Youre lying. the stranger whined.
Did you not hear me? I SAID, I dont have it.
Felix yelled, beaming with pride.
She saw that the mans grip on Felixs throat
tightened making it more difficult for him to
breathe. It became clear that he had pushed the
stranger to the absolute edge of the cliff. The ball in
his hand dissolved and the electricity that he
generated earlier came back around his arm once
more.
Norah desperately tried to find the strength to pick
herself up, but she couldnt find it. She could only
watch in horror as the man brought his free hand
towards Felixs face before she saw a boulder,
almost as big as her head, sailing through the air
and it collided with the back of the strangers head
with a satisfying crunch.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
9 | P a g e
The man roared in pain as he dropped Felix and
turned around to see who his attacker had been.
There, outside of the hole in the wall, stood
Dontae, eyebrows furrowed, gripping his staff
tightly. The silence in the air unsettled Norah as it
turned into an intense staring contest between the
two men. Wasting no time, Dontae swept the
man's feet from under him with the staff and then
slammed him to the ground, knocking him out.
Dontae's expression softened as he helped Felix off
the ground and then walked over to Norah.
"Come on," he said as reached for her arm, "We
need to get out of here."
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
10 | P a g e
CHAPTER 2
SHATTERED TRANQUILITY
Dontae, with Felix and Norah following close
behind, carefully lifted the man off of the ground
and carried him back through the hole in the
wall.
Let me guess, Norah said to Donate with a
slight tone of interest, Earth Shenrye?
Yup. Dontae said, looking back with a grin.
And you, she said, looking at Felix, Water
Shenrye, right? Felix rolled his eyes like he
couldnt believe she asked him that. He made a
finger gun and pointed it at her face. She waited
for water to squirt her in the face, but instead, a
small flame ignited from the tip of his index
finger.
Thats cute. she said, feigning surprise.
I try, Felix said, shrugging his shoulders. How
about you? What can you do?
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
11 | P a g e
Norah felt her stomach twist as she willed the
ground to burst open and a beautiful rose
sprouted up. She crouched down to pick a flower
and then handed it to Felix whose mouth hung
open
Youre, youre..., Felix stammered.
A Nala Shenrye. Norah said with a satisfactory
smile.
The power to manipulate nature, Dontae said,
Weve never met a Nala before.
Why? Norah chuckled nervously, Are there
not that many of us around?
Dontae seemed to not hear Norahs question. He
stopped for a moment, then looked around as if
he lost something.
Whats the holdup? Norah asked, tapping the
floor with her shoe impatiently
Im trying to remember where I fought the other
guy, so we can put them together, Dontae
answered, scratching his chin. I think its this
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
12 | P a g e
way. he said, pointing to an area that was
stacked with towers of boxes. They walked and
carefully navigated through the crates. Sure
enough, the other stranger lay there, sprawled on
the ground. Dontae mustve hit him
unnecessarily hard because blood was dripping
out of his nose like a waterfall. They laid the body
of the Electric Shenrye next to his friend and took
a moment to catch their breath. Norah sat down
on a small crate, looked around, and took in her
surroundings.
A blanket of darkness covered the entire place
with the only source of light coming from the
windows. Wooden crates were scattered all over
the place, looking similar to a maze. The smell of
the crate next to Norah reminded her strongly of
the outdoors, fresh and clean. It helped to calm
down her nerves.
A wall made entirely out of glass, which she
couldnt see out of very well, sat directly across
from the entrance. As far as they were
concerned, Norah could sense that they were the
only ones in the warehouse, but that didnt stop
her from staying on guard. She brought her focus
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
13 | P a g e
back unto Felix, who was rubbing his face where
had gotten slapped, and Dontae, who was
cleaning his staff with his shirt. Aside from a
couple scrapes and bruises, they both looked
perfectly fine. Felix began to tap his feet.
"Dontae," Felix whispered, so quietly that Dontae
had to lean in to hear him. "Do you have the
package with you?"
Dontae grinned and slowly pulled out a small,
orange package from his back pocket which made
Felix sigh with relief. Norah stood up, trembling,
clenching her fists.
Thats what he wanted? she asked furiously,
grabbing Felix by the collar of his shirt. He raised
his hands in defense.
Hey, dont blame me. It comes with the job,
Felix answered.
Job?
Dontae, who sat there quietly spoke up, Felix
and I, are both Esye, you know, for the Onikhai,
the leader of Brion. He works in the Recovery
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
14 | P a g e
Division and I work in the Guardian Division. If
you calm down, we can explain everything to
you.
Norah let Felix go, sat back down, and closed her
eyes. I know all about the Esye, and the
Guardians, but, what is the Recovery Division?
All right. Well it basically boils down to this,
Felix said, fixing his clothes, The Recovery
Division is split into two separate divisions
within itself. First, are the retrievers. After the
Research Division gives them coordinates, they
go out and find artifacts that the Onikhai asks
them to find. When they get the object, they have
to bring it to a certain part of the city and thats
where we, the transporters, come in. We meet
with the retrievers and deliver the package to the
Onikhais Tower.
Norah scrunched up her face. Do you even get to
see whats in the package?
Felix looked down. Only if the Onikhai wants to
show us and he doesnt do it very often.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
15 | P a g e
Norah shook her head. It doesnt sound like a
complicated job. she said, crossing her arms.
Felix stood up, staring at her incredulously.
Are you kidding?! You heard what those
marauders said. They were looking for that.
Felix said, pointing at the package lying on
Dontaes lap This is a top priority job. If we lost
the package, the Onikhai would have to exile us.
Seriously? Norah said, mildly surprised.
Seriously. Felix answered.
Well, Norah yawned as she got off the crate,
thats not my problem. Felix kicked a nearby
crate and began to take a couple steps towards
Norah before Dontae stopped him.
We dont need you! Felix yelled. Whyd you
come with us anyway?
I dont know! she said before storming off
towards the glass wall.
Norah, wait. Dontae yelled to her back.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
16 | P a g e
Norah had been trying to figure out the answer to
that question ever since she arrived in the
Southern Zone. She had been walking around the
market, full of people selling various goods,
trying to search for certain supplies that were
unavailable near her home in the Northern Zone.
When she could not find what she was looking
for, she sat down at a nearby fountain, took off
her boots, and plunged her feet right in.
The water felt refreshing, helping her to relax.
Bystanders looked at her strangely but they
didnt say anything. Not that Norah cared. She
stared at her reflection and saw a beige skinned
girl with white spiky hair that had green tips at
the edge and two scars on her left cheek staring
right back at her. Everything was serene, or at
least it was for a moment.
She heard scuffling behind her, turned around,
and saw Dontae and Felix running for their lives,
as if something, or someone, was chasing them.
Dontae had dark, greasy, cropped hair, sporting a
long-sleeved black shirt and a pair of dark blue
jeans. Felix, who ran behind him, had short
brown hair, almost like a buzzcut. He wore a
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
17 | P a g e
green shirt with a black vest, and had on a pair of
khakis.
Which way should we go, Dontae? the short
one yelled to the one presumably called Dontae.
Over there. Dontae said, pointing to a nearby
alleyway.
They ran around the corner and disappeared.
Moments later, two hooded men popped up out
of nowhere and followed Dontae and Felix
around the same corner. Norah did not want to
get involved but something inside of her told her
that those guys were possibly in trouble. Norah
moaned in frustration as she hoisted herself from
the fountain, put her boots back on (which were
now soaking wet), and quietly followed the
hooded men without being seen. From there, she
followed them into an abandoned warehouse, ran
into Dontae and Felix, and the rest is history.
A very small part of her was glad that the two
were okay, but all the other parts regretted
coming along. Had Norah minded her own
business, she would have been able to enjoy
soaking her feet in the fountain near the market.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
18 | P a g e
Instead, she had gotten herself lost in an area
that she had no familiarity with and had no idea
how to get home.
As she thought about this, Norah almost did not
notice that part of the roof broke off and fell
down where Dontae and Felix were standing.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
19 | P a g e
CHAPTER 3
FLY OR DIE
By the time Norah wheeled around, the small part
of the roof had already fallen down, crashing
violently where Dontae, Felix, and the two
unconscious men were at.
NO! she screamed.
We're all right! Dontae shouted from afar.
Yeah, Felixs voice rang nearby, We moved them
over here.
Norah dashed towards the sound of their voices
while trying to avoid the falling debris. She found
all four men unharmed, but Felix's left arm was
badly bleeding from trying to escape from the
crash. Apparently, he seemed unfazed by it as he
continually shot flames from his hands to keep the
debris from reaching them. Norah thought about
using her powers but she did not think it would be
useful to defend the others. Besides, if Felix got too
close, she could seriously get injured.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
20 | P a g e
We need to get out of here, NOW! Dontae yelled
as he began to launch boulders from the Earth to
destroy the debris.
What about those two? Felix yelled back over the
noise. Norah had almost forgotten that the two
assailants were still lying there, blissfully unaware
of the destruction going on around them.
We should just leave them. Norah suggested.
Were not going to do that, Dontae said, We can
carry them on our backs and rush out through the
entrance!
As he said that, a large piece of debris fell down
and covered the entrance, preventing them from
using it as an escape.
Dontae lowered his head, I dont think I can push
through that.
So much for that plan. Felix remarked.
Norah tried to think of an alternate escape route as
they were running out of time. She quickly scanned
the room, looking for any openings, and saw that
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
21 | P a g e
the glass wall was still intact. Suddenly, she had an
insane idea.
We have to jump out through the glass wall.
Norah said quickly.
Have you lost your mind!? Felix said in disbelief.
Maybe, but you gotta trust me, Norah said
calmly, Either we can take our chances and jump,
or we can stay here and get crushed to death.
Felix looked as if he wanted to try and argue, but
he didn't say anything. She noticed that his flames
were getting smaller and smaller with each throw.
Sometimes, he would keep thrusting his hand and
nothing would come out. Likewise with Dontae, his
boulders became the size of rocks, almost having
no effect on the debris. If they didn't move now,
they would be crushed.
All right, Norah, well go with your plan, Dontae
said, rolling out of the way as a large piece of
debris fell down where he once stood, Follow my
lead! He grabbed the Electric Shenrye and hoisted
him off the ground. He turned around and said,
You guys ready?
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
22 | P a g e
Ready when you are. Felix grinned.
They rushed through the warehouse with Dontae
leading the way, Felix hobbling in the middle, and
Norah bringing up the rear. They moved swiftly
while trying to avoid being smashed to pieces. It
was difficult for them to maneuver through the
fallen debris as Dontae and Felix were moving a bit
slowly because of the increased weight on their
backs.
The warehouse began to cave in and the ground
behind them sunk like quicksand. The glass on the
wall began to break into millions of shards which
fell towards the ground on the outside of the
building. Norah looked back and saw that the
warehouse had become nothing but a void of
darkness, as if the warehouse had become a beast
trying to consume them.
They were a few steps from the wall when Felix
shouted NOW!
Dontae nodded his head. He willed pieces of the
earth to form a gauntlet around his arm and with a
defying yell, he body slammed his way through the
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
23 | P a g e
glass and the five bodies fell from the warehouse as
the roof completely collapsed upon itself. Norah
immediately noticed that the warehouse was
several stories off the ground as they continued to
fall down. She heard Felix curse over the sound of
the wind and saw that they were falling awfully
fast. If they couldn't find a way to slow down or
cushion the fall, well, it probably wouldn't be
pretty.
FELIX! Dontae shouted to his friend.
Felix looked very uncomfortable carrying an
unconscious stranger and falling to his death but
he looked up and nodded.
If you can shoot your flames downwards, we can
descend much slower. Dontae yelled.
I used the bit of my energy throwing fireballs at
the debris, Felix shouted back. I'm out of juice.
To prove his point, he thrust out his hands and
nothing but sparks emitted from them. Dontae
glided over towards Felix and grabbed his
shoulder.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
24 | P a g e
Dontae, what the heck are you doing?! he said in
surprise.
Nothing happened for a moment, but then Felixs
arm began to glow.
Dontae...what did you DO?! he asked in
astonishment.
Dont you remember? Its a technique that Esye
can use to help each other out in combat. Norah
knew what he was talking about. Upon becoming
an Esye, an Obian is required to have the Onikhais
symbol, four swords going across a four sided star
in different directions, tattooed on a place of their
choosing. The tattoo was not only for show. It had
the power to transfer energy between Esye. Norah
noticed that they were close to the ground. They
were running out of time.
Do it now Felix, NOW! she yelled, grabbing onto
Dontaes leg.
At the last minute, Felix sent a full force of fire
through his left hand, which thankfully didnt hurt
Dontae, Norah or the strangers at all, and they
started to descend to the ground slowly.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
25 | P a g e
Aw, yeah! Felix said with pride. Whos the best
Obian now?
They remained suspended in mid-air when Felixs
flame started to encase his entire arm in fire.
Luckily they were a couple feet from the ground
when Dontae quickly let go, dragging Norah and
the two men down with him. She sat up and saw
Felix, panicking, trying to put the flames out.
DONTAE, NORAH! Felix yelled in alarm. Move
back! My powers, theyre acting up. I cant control
it. Felixs entire body seemed to be devoured by
the flames. Norah barely had time to try to protect
herself before Dontae brought up a wall of Earth to
protect himself and everyone else from the blast,
but the force was so great that it sent her skidding
and she crashed into a nearby wall.
When she opened her eyes and looked around, she
saw Felix, burnt to a crisp, sprawled on the ground,
looking up at the sky. To his right, Dontae was
sitting on the wall, struggling to get up. The
strangers were on the left, still lying unconscious.
Felix! Are you okay? Dontae groaned.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
26 | P a g e
Felix lifted his head. Yeah, I feel fine except for
the scrapes and bruises from earlier. The burns
will heal on their own.
Dontae looked relieved. The package flew out of
my pocket when you exploded. You gotta hurry
and-
I know, I know. Felix grumbled Dont worry
about it. Norah noticed that the package Dontae
had earlier was a couple inches from Felix. He
stretched out his hand to grab it when a dark figure
dropped down next to him, grabbed his arm,
flipped him over, and punched him in the back of
the head.
Dontae, stumbling to get up, threw a punch
towards the stranger but she dodged it and
punched him directly in the stomach. He looked at
her in pain before she punched him in the face,
knocking him out cold. The dark figure picked up
the package, slipped it into a pocket, and casually
strolled up to Norah. Norah tried to move her body
but her strength had left her. It was a miracle she
was still breathing. As the stranger neared closer to
Norah, she realized it was a woman. Her short
blond hair dangled in front of her beautiful face,
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
27 | P a g e
looking eerily similar to a figurine, but it was
slightly marred by a scar on the right side of her
lips. Her blue eyes seemed to be made of ice which
disturbed Norah, as if the woman was looking right
through her soul. She laid one of her freezing cold
hands upon Norahs neck which made her body
shiver. It felt like she was literally turning Norah
into an ice cube.
The woman drew her other fist back and punched
Norah hard in the face, making her slump over and
pass out.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
28 | P a g e
CHAPTER 4
NO PLACE LIKE HOME
Norah felt her head ringing as she woke up,
finding herself on a soft bed. She looked down
and noticed her torso wrapped in bandages. She
sat up, looked to her left and saw that Dontae
and Felix were also wrapped in bandages,
occupying the beds that were next to her.
Dontae! Felix! You doofuses awake? No
answer. Great, Norah thought. Did the blond
woman take them hostage? Were they waiting
to be killed? But if that were the case, how come
all three of them werent tied up? Norah looked
around, trying to figure out where they were at.
The vastness and emptiness of the place strongly
reminded her of a cavern. There was a large
pentagonal platform in the center of the cave
which had a spiral design etched across it. Norah
tried to figure out what it could be, but she had
no idea. On top of the platform sat a ladder that
went all the way to the roof. Surprisingly, it
didnt smell dank or musty like most
underground areas might. Looking down below,
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
29 | P a g e
Norah saw several streams running throughout
the cave. The streams looked deep enough to dive
in if the 3 of them attempted an escape. But she
didnt want to test that theory. At least, not yet.
There were 4 corners on the platform, each
having distinct setups. One corner had been filled
with all sorts of technology and gizmos that
began to make her dizzy. A nearby bed is filled
with tons of precarious stacks of different books
and papers, giving Norah the impression that the
owner never slept on that bed in their life.
Another corner had training equipment such as
dumbbells and weights. The third corner was
simple by comparison. A small bed and a large
metallic closet, which might be filled with combat
gear or weapons, occupied that space. The fourth
corner had nothing at all except a small green
sofa, the color resembling moss on a tree. It
could hardly be seen because it was covered by a
black veil. The place started to look similar to
Norah, but she wanted to try something to
validate her assumption. She tossed a roll of
bandages towards one of the cavern walls and it
came right back at her.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
30 | P a g e
Force field. I thought so, she said, shaking her
head.
Figured it out, Norah? a voice called from the
center of the platform. Norah looked over in that
direction as a middle-aged woman in a simple
black dress with long, flowing, dark brown hair
mixed in with a few streaks of gray, and eyes with
irises that looked completely purple, walked over
to her.
Zabrina. Norah said rolling her eyes. Norah
had a rough history with Zabrina, ever since they
met long ago. Norah ran away from home at the
time. She had lived a fairly average life until she
came to the realization that she was different.
She had never met someone with the same
perplexing white hair that she had. Or the deep
scar on her cheek that made her
look...disturbing. At a certain point, Norah
realized she had nothing in common with the
people who she called, Mom and Dad. That
only made her burning desire to know about her
history, who her real parents were, burn even
brighter. But no one could give her the answer
she longed for.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
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Every time that someone who genuinely cared for
Norah tried to get close to her, she almost always
turned them away. To the point where she almost
declined Zabrinas offer to take her in, and care
for her. Zabrina treated Norah as if she were
Zabrinas own daughter, but Norah felt that
Zabrina know more about Norah than even she
did. Sometimes, Zabrina would look at her with
such sadness, Norah guessed that Zabrina
remembered something awful.
But instead of sharing a painful tale, Zabrina sat
down on a nearby chair with a little smile on her
face.
Glad to see that youre awake. she said quietly,
ruffling Norahs hair. Norah pushed her hand
away, frustrated.
Howd you find us? And howd we get here?
Norah asked.
Well, Zabrina said, folding her legs, I tried to
get in contact with you through your
communicator. Zabrina pointed to a faceless
communicator sitting on a desk next to Norah.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
32 | P a g e
It kept saying that I could not contact you which
meant that it either malfunctioned or broke. I
immediately asked Konnyr and Arthur to come
with me to the last location where your
communicator was online and we found you
three in the Southern Zone, lying near the
remains of a recently destroyed building.
Three of us? Werent there more? Norah said,
moving her legs off the bed.
No. It was just you three. We checked all of you
for injuries. The one with the black hair-
Dontae. Norah said.
Zabrina glared at her and then continued,
Dontae, sustained the least injuries. His head
was bleeding a bit so we bandaged it. You had a
couple of bruised ribs which wouldve left you
unable to move or fight for a few weeks.
Thankfully, your powers amplify the recovery
rate so you should be fine in a few hours. The
one of the far left, however, Zabrina said,
pointing to Felix.
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Felix? Norah said, slightly confused, Is
something wrong with him? Zabrina walked
over to him, lifted his left arm, and pulled down a
couple bandages to reveal a bunch of black veins
running up and down his arm.
Wha......whats happening to him? Norah said,
slightly horrified.
I believe that he is turning into a Monakura, a
dark beast. Zabrina said, lowering his arm back
down on the table. A Monakura? Norah had
never heard of that before. Norah planned on
asking Zabrina about it when Felixs right hand
burst into flames, and he thrust it directly at
Zabrinas face.
Are you sure you want to do that? Zabrina said,
immediately grabbing his wrist, After I saved
you? Felix extinguished his flames and Zabrina
let go of him.
You saved us? he asked, his voice sounding
hoarse.
Well, it wasnt just me. Zabrina shrugged.
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Who are you? Dontae said, sitting up on his
bed. His right eye looked swollen.
Well, Zabrina said, gently brushing off her
dress. I believe I should introduce myself. I, am
Zabrina. she said, extending a warm hand of
welcome.
Felix reached out to shake her hand when Dontae
spoke up.
Call me crazy, he said, but would you happen
to be the Zabrina-
Who was the very first Obian in existence?
Zabrina said, folding her arms with a smirk.
That would be me. Norah didnt think it was
possible, but she was genuinely shocked when
she saw Felixs jaw drop lower than it did earlier.
Dontae, however, didnt look impressed as his
eyebrows furrowed.
You dont believe me, do you? said Zabrina
with a slightly dry smile.
Sorry, Dontae said, not looking very sorry. But
anyone can say theyre the Zabrina. Even if you
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35 | P a g e
are Zabrina, legends say that shes been dead for
several decades.
Felix got over his shock and nodded his head in
agreement. Norah thought that they were either
very brave or very stupid.
Zabrina rose her hands innocently in the air and
laughed. All right, she said. You got me. But
would you be so kind as to follow me to the
central area over here. All three of you should be
able to walk perfectly fine. Dontae, Felix, and
Norah got up out of their beds and followed her
into the central area. Near the area filled with
technology, Norah saw a portly man with curly
black hair, even shorter than Felix, throwing
punches in the air. Next to him stood a lanky,
balding, and blond man, reading a book.
Konnyr, Arthur, Zabrina called, Come over
here and meet Dontae and Felix. The curly-
haired man saw them, stopped punching the air,
and ran over to them.
Yo, Im Konnyr! He said, introducing himself,
giving Dontae and Felix high-fives, and Norah a
bear hug.
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Easy, easy, on the ribs, little guy. she said,
smiling.
Hey, Konnyr scowled, Im older than you. Just
remember that.
Sure thing, Norah said, flicking his pointy ears.
She saw Dontae looking at her, smiling, but then
he turned away just as quickly.
And this, Zabrina said, is Arthur. The other
man put his book down and looked at Dontae
and Felix.
Er, Dontae said nervously, Nice to meet you,
sir.
Likewise. Arthur said monotonously while
shaking Dontae and Felixs hands. He turned
towards Norah and raised his book again.
Ms. Hanorah. he said uninterested. Norah felt
her eye twitching.
Arthur, she said trying to restrain herself.
Could you please just call me, Norah?
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As you wish, Ms. Hanorah. he repeated. Norah
turned back to see Felix burst out laughing and
Dontae waving innocently.
Anyway! Norah said so loudly that it rang
throughout the cave. I think that these two,
looking directly at Dontae and Felix, do not
believe that I am the same Zabrina from Obian
legend and I would like to kindly prove them
wrong. If that is okay with you gentlemen?
Zabrina turned around with her back facing
everyone. As she turned, Norah almost didnt
notice that Zabrinas eyes turned from their
shady, dark purple into a bright lavender and
that her hands were glowing, consumed by
flames. Norah, Arthur, and Konnyr took several
steps back.
Dontae looked at Norah, confused. What is she
doi- It happened so fast that Norah barely had
time to blink. Zabrina shot the two fireballs
towards Felix and Dontae, the latter who wasnt
paying attention and was struck full force in the
chest, knocking him back. Felix, surprisingly,
jumped up and intercepted the other ball in
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midair. Coming down, he thrust the flames back
at her. Zabrina calmly raised her hands and a
massive amount of water from below the cavern
burst out of the ground and everyone except
Zabrina and Arthur, the latter who stood several
feet away, were dosed with water. Zabrina willed
the water to descend back down to ground.
Norah and Felix ran over to Donate and helped
him off the ground. Dontae looked fine except for
the hole in his shirt.
Dontae lowered his head, clearly ashamed. Im
sorry for doubting you Great Zabri-
Sorry, Zabrina interrupted. But Zabrina is
perfectly fine.
Its...er, quite an honor to meet you he finished
as he and Felix bowed down in embarrassment.
Its quite all right, and the pleasure is all mine.
she said with smile. Youre not the first person
Ive had to do that to. She walked over and
patted Dontae on the shoulder. Its nice to meet
you both, Dontae and Felix. I bet youre
wondering how I am currently here right now
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even though legends have said that I have passed
away after the First Onikhais ruling. Well-
Zabrina. Norah interrupted. Everyone turned
their attention towards her which made her
regret calling her name. They need our help.
Zabrina stared at her with such seriousness, she
almost felt as if she did something wrong.
Zabrina looked back at the boys.
Yes, she said rubbing her chin. We need to
have a discussion in the infirmary immediately.
She motioned for everyone to follow her back
into the room. Dontae, Felix, and Norah sat
down on their beds while Norah willed three
chair, made entirely from smooth stone, rise
from the earth for her, Arthur, and Konnyr to sit
on. Well, she said rubbing her hands together.
Let us begin.
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CHAPTER 5
FOUNDATION
Norah thought Dontae looked nervous. Having to
retell their quest to three new strangers would
probably not be the most comfortable thing in
the world. But Arthur, who continued to read his
book, Konnyr, who kept looking at the ground,
and Zabrina, who fixed Felixs bandages, werent
really paying him any attention. After he
finished, Zabrina said that she needed to have a
private discussion with Arthur and Konnyr and
left Norah, Dontae, and Felix sitting in the
infirmary. They sat in awkward silence for a
moment before Felix spoke up.
So...are Arthur and Konnyr your brothers? he
said. Norah began to laugh and Dontae joined in.
What? Felix asked confused.
Felix, Dontae said, shaking his head, Do they
look alike at all? Once Felix realized his error, he
lowered his head.
Its okay. Norah said, leaning over and shaking
his shoulder, trying to make him feel better. She
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41 | P a g e
could appreciate his naivitiy. We do have a sort
of family vibe, dont we? You could say Zabrina is
the mom, and Arthur, Konnyr, and I are the
children. Zabrina found them both, the same way
she found me. Wandering on the streets as
teenagers, living in the Eastern Zone. They ran
away from home because the relationship
between Konnyr and his biological parents, lets
just say that it was very rocky. They argued and
fought so much that Konnyr believed that his
family didnt want him anymore.
Jeez, Dontae said, thats terrible.
Yup, Norah agreed solemnly, He went to
Arthur one day with the idea of running away
from home, so they didnt have to worry about
anything else. Arthur, at first, thought it was the
dumbest idea that hes ever heard in his life. But
on the other hand, Konnyr happened to be his
friend and didnt want something horrible to
happen to him. The following day, they packed
up and left.
Dontae grinned. Arthur is a good friend.
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Norah smiled. It wasnt too soon that they ran
into Zabrina who took them in and made them
enlist in the Esye so theyd have something to do
instead of sitting around doing nothing. Arthur
applied and made it in as a Security Technician.
Their job is to monitor anything suspicious
throughout Brion and report it to the Guardians.
Konnyr tried to apply for a position in the
Guardian Division, but he didnt get in because of
two reasons. One, you have to be able to
manipulate an element of nature, which Konnyr
is not able to do. And two, he got into a fight with
an Earth Shenrye after they told him that he
didnt get the job.
That reminds me of Felix. Dontae said before
Felix chucked a nearby shoe at him.
Anyway, Norah said, throwing Felix an irritated
look, After about twenty years, Arthur retired
and came back to live here. All of this, she said,
extending her arms out, Arthur and Konnyr
built this together. A little while after that,
Zabrina found me and you both know the rest
from there. Felix got up and gave Norah two
thumbs up.
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Well, Felix said with a grin, I think you guys
are okay in my book.
Same here. Dontae agreed. The more Norah
hung around Dontae and Felix, the more
comfortable she began to feel. Before anyone
else could say anything, Zabrina, Konnyr, and
Arthur walked back over to them. Arthur placed
his book down on a nearby shelf and fixed his
glasses.
I believe I know of a way to retrieve this
package. he said. Felixs face lit up like a light
bulb. Norah may or may not have told you this,
but long time ago, I worked as a Esye in the days
of the Fifth Onikhai, which is where I met
Zabrina.
That reminds me, Felix blurted out, rudely
interrupting Arthur, Did she look the same as
she did now? Norah and Dontae both shot him
dirty looks but Zabrina just laughed as if she had
heard this before.
Not at all. As youve heard from Obian legends, I
am indeed the first born Obian, possessor of the
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44 | P a g e
four central elements that make up our world.
Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. There are also the
sub-elements such as Nature, and Electricity and
more. But these main four, more specifically,
Earth and Water, are the foundations of our
world.
Anyway, I lived up until Brion turned from a
mass of emptiness into a world full of life. At the
time around my death, my spirit faded from this
world and I appeared in the Spirit Realm, where
Obians go when they die. It wasnt too soon when
my soul was called back into the world of the
living and my spirit resided in the body of a
chosen individual that can hold my soul within
them. It is sometimes difficult because for two
souls to exist in one body, they have to merge in
order to coexist peacefully. The soul that I had to
merge with loved to fight which is why I do not
mind getting into a brawl here and there.
So its basically, reincarnation...right? said
Dontae, slowly taking that in.
Correct. Zabrina answered.
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Thats amazing. Dontae said impressed.
Thats kinda creepy. Felix said noticeably
disturbed.
Either way, can we let Arthur finish? Norah
said, tapping her feet. Zabrina looked away in
embarrassment.
Ah yes, Arthur said putting down his book
again. Norah hadnt noticed he started reading it
again. Well as Ive said before, I was an Esye,
and my job was to monitor questionable activity
from the Onikhais Tower and inform the
Guardians if something troublesome was
occurring. When I retired, I was able to set up a
monitor here, similar to how they were at the
tower. I can use to it locate where the package is.
Felix started fist pumping the air before Zabrina
walked over and gently lowered his arm back
down on the bed.
Arthur, Zabrina said, Do you think you could
start the search immediately?
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That much, he said closing his book. I can do.
before walking away to the area filled with
technology
Zabrina took a deep breath, and found herself a
seat. The room became silent for a moment
before she directed her attention towards
Konnyr.
Should I tell him? Konnyr asked Zabrina.
Norah wondered who they were talked about it.
No, I think I will. Felix. Zabrina said, turning
towards Felix who happened to be picking his
nose.
Aw, dude, Dontae said, scrunching up his face
in disgust. Zabrina shot water from her right
hand, which got all over Felix, and then blew air
from her left hand, drying him off.
...as I was saying, wiping her hands on her
dress, Felix...Im sorry. But youre turning into a
Monakura.
Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye
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A Monakura Felix laughed nervously. He
mustve thought it was joke but when he looked
around, no one else smiled. What is that?
Zabrina walked over to Felix and pulled off his
bandages to reveal the black veins on his arm.
Felix looked as if he had just got punched in the
face.
Wha...what, he stuttered.
A dark beast, Zabrina said wrapping his
bandages back up. Its one of two
transformations that a Shenrye can achieve and
its also the most dangerous. You are well aware
of them, right?
No, Dontae said. We never even knew that
Shenrye could transform. They never taught us
that.
It makes sense, Zabrina said scratching her
chin, that the Onikhai would not want it taught
to the Esye, especially the Guardians. The Obian,
more specifically, the Shenrye, have two different
transformations that are said to enhance their
power, tenfold. Not every Shenrye can transform
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48 | P a g e
however. Only a select few who have a high
enough energy within them will be to accomplish
this. When the Shenrye is in a moment where
they experience an extreme emotion, from
happiness to anger, to even, grief, their souls
perish from their bodies.
What? Felix cried.
Hold on, Zabrina said returning to her seat.
Let me finish. Their souls are momentarily
trapped in a different dimension where they
must face their own personal insecurities in the
form of a monster. If they can overcome the thing
that is holding them back, they can achieve the
transformation into a Rygon, which is the other
transformation that a Shenrye can achieve. Every
Rygon looks different when they transform. For
instance, Wind Shenrye sprout wings and
generate air from their body. We would be
floating off the ground if we were standing close
to one.
Huh. Thats really something. Dontae said.
I agree, Zabrina said, nodding her head, But
sometimes the battle with the monster is not
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49 | P a g e
easily fought. If the Shenrye cannot overcome
their insecurities and lose the battle with the
monster, their soul is left in that dimension and
the monster overtakes the body, therefore
becoming a Monakura. Transforming into either
a Monakura or Rygon is extremely dangerous
and it starts to show up on a Shenryes body
when they are close to transforming. You all may
not know it, but Felix is much more powerful
then he looks.. I fear, however, that his
insecurities, whatever they may be, will be the
death of him.
Norah thought that Zabrina might as well have
stabbed Felix with the sharpest blade that could
be found. His face looked grave, looking at
everyone with worry in his eyes. The room
became tense for a period of time and then
Norah noticed that Felix began to glower. Norah
could have sworn that she saw a dark glint in his
eye but it disappeared just as quickly.
I cant just give up now, Felix said, his voice
swelling with pride, I have to finish the job. You
know what happens if I dont deliver the package,
right? Nobody said anything but Norah knew
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50 | P a g e
what they were all thinking. Exile, or worse,
death. After the rule of the First Onikhai, a grand
council, made up of several individuals chosen by
the people, created a law that forces the Onikhai
to banish any Esye from Brion who have failed to
do their job properly. Norah has no idea what lies
beyond the borders of Brion, but it probably
wasnt safe and she didnt want to find out.
Konnyr rose up from his seat and punched his
fists together.
Well, you wont have to get it back by
yourselves, he said grinning from ear to ear,
You know kid, you remind me of me when I was
your age. Very stupid and reckless. I like that.
Youre still stupid and reckless. Norah
whispered under her breath. She thought Konnyr
wouldnt catch that but he shot her a dirty look
which made Dontae and Felix laugh. Even
Zabrina smiled a bit.
The best that, you can do, what we can do, is
help you keep your emotions in check, Felix.
Zabrina said as her smile faded from her face.
Even though I have only known you two for
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several hours, I wish to see you both accomplish
your goal. All of us, Norah, Konnyr, Arthur, and I
will help you both retrieve the package. I
promise. Norah honestly thought that she would
have objected to being volunteered for a retrieval
mission but being around these Dontae and Felix
made her soften up her attitude a bit.
Felix, Zabrina with concern. I want you to be
careful. Although your arm is still functional, I
would not put too much pressure on it. It would
be troublesome, if I had to fix it up again.
Zabrinas face darkened which made Felix shift
uneasily on his bed. Trust me, Felix, you and
Dontae will both need all the help you can get
and we need to make a plan. However, Zabrina
said, looking deadly serious. We need to train
you both, now.
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CHAPTER 6
THE HIDDEN SECTOR
It came as a bit of a surprise when Zabrina told
Norah that all of them were going to be training
outside. Norah trained only with Zabrina inside
of the cave, mostly because Arthur did not want
to throw, "any unnecessary punches" and Konnyr
thought that he was the best at fighting. Even
though Zabrina has beaten him whenever they
sparred.
"Whenever you're ready, follow me." Zabrina said
before she compressed the air around her and
used the pressure to boost herself up towards the
ceiling and climbed out.
"Lazy." Norah scowled. Not knowing if it would
be hot or cold outside, Norah put on a cream
colored blouse and a pair of black jeans. She and
the others began to climb the ladder. When they
reached the top, Norah gasped. She couldn't
believe her eyes. It had been a long time since
she's been in the Northern Zone, her home. They
stood in a large clearing, surrounded by a wide
forest. The grass made a crunching sound
wherever they stepped. In the distance, Norah
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could make out several tall buildings which made
up the downtown sector of the zone. The
coldness of the air made her spine shiver. It
seemed as if the blond woman from earlier stood
behind Norah, placing her cold hands on Norahs
shoulders.
Norah placed a hand on one of her blades,
preparing for a fight. When she wheeled around,
she only saw Arthur, reading his book. She heard
Konnyr sigh heavily.
"Could you remind me why you're always reading
a book. They're lame." Konnyr said. Arthur fixed
his glasses.
"If you actually picked up a book every now and
then, you would be a lot more educated on a lot
of things. Things such as the history of our race,
the Obian. Arthur said coolly.
"Well," Konnyr said, "what more do I need to
know except that we have large pointy ears and
that most of us can mess around with the
elements of nature." Zabrina started to chuckle.
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"That's all you can remember?" Zabrina said,
legitimately surprised.
"It's all I care about." Konnyr answered with a
satisfactory smirk. Zabrina shook her head,
clearly frustrated by Konnyr's lack of knowledge.
"Anyway, follow me, please." Zabrina said
irritably, walking into the forest, heading into a
direction that Norah has never seen before. As
they trudged along, Norah noticed that the bark
on the trees started to look older and ancient.
She also didnt hear any more sounds beside the
six of them walking. No sign of life or any
creatures anywhere. Norah never thought that
she would find herself thinking this, but being in
this area really bothered her.
"Where exactly are we going, Zabrina? Norah
asked while she began to rub her arms to keep
warm.
Hopefully we get there soon. Dontae said
anxiously.
Felix chuckled nervously. Youre not scared of a
little bit of nature, are you?
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Not necessarily, Dontae said, looking around,
It just feels like someone or something is
watching us. Norah thought that Dontae
mightve been seeing things but she got the shaky
feeling that he might be right.
They reached a couple of trees that were
obscuring their path. Norah walked around to
one side of the trees, hoping to see if there was an
alternate way to go, but she had no such luck.
I know that the place is beyond the trees.
Zabrina said, rubbing her wrist. Felix flicked his
finger and a small flame lit up.
I think I can take care of it. he said with a smile
which Norah thought looked evil while being
illuminated by the fire.
NO. Norah shouted. He immediately put the
fire out.
I can do this. Norah assured. She crouched
down and pressed her hands against the earth. A
few roots popped up from underground and
wrapped themselves around her fingers.. The
thick trees slowly began to shrink until it became
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the size of a shrub. Even then, it got smaller and
smaller until it became the size of a seed.
Nice job. Felix said, sarcastically applauding
Norah. She picked up the seed and flicked it at
Felixs face. Zabrina coughed loudly, clearly
trying to get everyones attention.
Lady and gentlemen, Zabrina said, beaming
with pride. We have arrived. Norah didnt know
what she thought she would see, but it definitely
did not match with what she really saw. A sector
full of run-down, dirty, and rusty buildings. The
doors were hanging off the hinges and the
windows were broken. The air smelled stale and
gross, as if rotten food had been lying around all
over the place. Norah doubt that any Nala would
come here of their own free will. This sector
absolutely disgusted her. In front of them stood a
small sign that said in big bold letters, DO NOT
ENTER. CONDEMNED.
Zabrina, What are we doing here? Norah said
with agitation rising in her throat. Zabrina
looked at Norah bewildered, as if she expected
Norah to have the answer to that question.
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To train, of course. Why do you think I brought
us all the way out here? There are no civilians to
get hurt and we have enough room to unleash
our maximum power. Zabrina bounced up and
down like a ball.
Dontae pulled his staff out and leaned on it. I
have one question, if you dont mind me asking?
Technically, that was two questions, but go
ahead. Zabrina said, taking a seat on the ground.
Howd you found out about this place?
Zabrina looked over at the buildings. It was
almost two decades ago. Before I found Konnyr
and Arthur, I used to live in this sector for a short
while. However, the Onikhai wanted this sector
to be blocked off from the public for reasons that
I do not understand.
Arthur took off his glasses and started cleaning
them. Have you been back ever since?
Er...no, Zabrina answered. But I am absolutely
sure that there are no problems and if there are,
we can handle it.
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Arthur put his glasses back on and sighed
heavily. Thats reassuring.
Konnyr, who seemed the least bothered about the
rundown sector, smiled and said, So, how does
the training work? Im ready! He began to throw
some punches in the air which Norah thought
looked embarrassing. She scooted several inches
away from him.
I thought youd never ask. Zabrina smiled. She
reached into her back pocket and pulled out six
different colored metallic wristbands. Two of
them were gold, two were silver, and the last two
were bronze. Everyone will be split into teams of
two. Your goal is to keep your metallic wristband
from being destroyed. If you are the first one to
have your wristband broken, you will not be
going on the mission to retrieve the package.
That includes you, Dontae and Felix. This
training will test everyone on endurance,
strength, and ability. Do your best and try to be
the last team standing.
What about the teams? Felix said from behind
them.
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Ah, thank you, Zabrina chuckled. Almost
forgot about that. The Gold Team, will be Konnyr
and I. Of course they are, Norah thought. Two
powerhouses on the same team. It makes sense.
The Silver Team will be Dontae and Arthur.
Zabrina continued, tossing them their bands.
With their intelligence, they could prove to be a
tough team to beat.
Unfortunately, that meant that, "Norah and Felix
are the Bronze team." Zabrina said, finishing
Norah's thought for her. Zabrina tossed Norahs
and Felixs bands towards them, which they
missed because they started to complain. Norah
secretly hoped to be placed with anyone besides
Felix. Why would Zabrina place two of the most
stubborn, even more than Konnyr, Obians on the
same team? Felix picked up his wristband and
started fastening it on.
"Zabrina," Felix said, "I think this is a big mist-
Zabrina cleared her throat loudly, again, I would
advise you all to hide because if one of us finds
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you, we will not hesitate to hurt you in an
attempt to destroy your wristband.
Harsh. Dontae muttered.
Anyway, Zabrina continued, you now have one
minute before the training start. Best of luck to
you all, and may the best Obian win." After she
finished, Zabrina and Konnyr dashed around the
corner of a nearby building, disappearing from
view.
"Jeez," Norah said, face palming herself, "We're
so going to lose."
"Think positively, Ms. Hanorah." Arthur said
before he walked over to Dontae, grabbed his
arm, and launched them both into the air. They
hovered for a moment before Arthur carried
them over to the buildings on the right. They
vanished from sight. Norah turned her attention
towards Felix whose jaw hung awfully low.
"I didn't know Arthur was a Wind Shenrye." Felix
said, trying to recover himself.
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"Well, maybe you should've asked." Norah said
with a bit of attitude. Felix stomped his foot
down.
"All right, you know what? You-" Norah covered
her ears, ignoring Felix, and checked her bronze
wristband. She hadn't noticed it before, but she
saw the number 15 written on the band. Then it
changed to 14. Then to 13.
"A watch, Norah suddenly realized, Felix,"
Norah said as she grabbed his wrist and pushed
his hand towards his mouth, effectively shutting
him up, "we have to hide, now." She ran towards
the left with Felix right on her heel. They hopped
over a broken window and crouched down as low
as they could. Norah checked her watch.
5.
4.
3.
2.
1.
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They waited in silence. Then, the whole building
shook violently and began to sink into the
ground, threatening to collapse on them.
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CHAPTER 7
AND THE WINNER IS
Dontae. Felix said, looking impressed.
Of course hed try to take us out as soon as
possible.
No, its not. Norah said, wiping dirt off her face.
She could feel her heart beating fast against her
chest. Its Zabrina.
How can you tell? Felix asked.
Think about it, Norah said, If you were
Zabrina, who do you think would pose a bigger
threat. Us? Or Arthur and Dontae?
Arthur and Dontae. Felix said proudly.
NO. Norah yelled in frustration. The ground
where Felix stood at began to sink quickly into
the ground. Norah pulled him over to her as the
earth consumed it. Arthur and Dontae might be
a good combination, but their strength lies in
their knowledge. Zabrina would want to
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eliminate the second most physically powerful
team which would be you and I.
Makes sense, Felix agreed. WATCH OUT. A
nearby beam fell and almost crushed them when
Felix sent a full force of flames out of his hand,
disintegrating the beam completely. The
supports to the building were weakening rapidly.
Norah looked around, trying to find a way out.
Straight ahead of them were stairs that lead to
the upper level. She noticed a window at the top
of them.
There, Norah said, pointing towards it. She and
Felix both leapt over the hole in the ground
which got bigger and wider, climbed the stairs,
and jumped out the window. Thankfully, they
werent too high off the ground. They landed with
a loud thud and looked up at the sky. Zabrina
hovered high above them, smirking.
Have you lost your friggin mind? Norah yelled,
throwing a nearby rock at Zabrina.
Not entirely. Zabrina answered. She pushed her
hands outward and a large ball of flames burst
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from her palms. Zabrina shot it towards them at
high speed. Norah started to shake a little.
I dont know if I can block that. Norah
muttered. As she began to run, she turned back
and saw that Felix bounced up towards the ball of
fire and kicked it straight back towards Zabrina.
Zabrina blocked her face as the fireball collided
with her and exploded. Felix landed back down
and examined his feet, which were black with
soot.
Ah crud, he said, trying to dust his foot off. I
really liked those shoes. Norah looked at Felix in
astonishment. He deflected the fireball and acted
as if it were nothing. She wondered what he
would be able to do at full power.
Felix began wiping his elbows. What do we do
no- Konnyr interrupted him by turning him
around and punching him directly in the
stomach, making Felix collapse. He hoisted Felix
off the ground and reached for his bronze
bracelet when Norah planted a kick directly on
Konnyrs chest, sending him flying several feet.
Norah stood in front of Felix.
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Leave. Him. Alone. Norah said, unsheathing
her twin blades. As annoying as Felix could be,
they were still partners, and Norah had to protect
him. Konnyr picked himself up.
Little Norah decided to get serious, huh?
Konnyr said, motioning for her to bring it on.
Im going to break your wristband. Norah
replied, dashing towards him. She thrust her
blade directly towards Konnyr left wrist, where
his wristband sat. He quickly deflected the attack
with a metallic cuff on his other arm. He went for
a quick jab at her legs but she blocked it with the
flat of her sword. Norah rolled back as Konnyr
swung upwards and stood up. They clashed with
each other, sword versus fist, going at each
others throats. Norah began to slip up, however.
When Konnyr threw a quick punch towards her
arm, Norah did not have enough time to block
the hit. She fell to the ground with a loud thud.
Konnyr walked over, aiming his arm for her
wristband when two vines burst from the ground
and latched around his wrists.
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What the? Konnyr said, trying to shake the
vines off. Norah grabbed one of her swords and
swung towards his wrist when a long metallic
pole came from nowhere and stopped her attack.
Norah gritted her teeth.
Dontae. she said, looking up. Dontae leaned
over her, smiling.
Sorry, Dontae said, not looking very sorry, his
wristband is mine.
Oh really? Konnyr said, mimicking Dontaes
voice. Norah and Dontae looked up and noticed
that Konnyr broke out of the vines. He grabbed
Dontaes staff and whacked him in the chest with
it. Norah saw her opportunity to attack. She
flipped her sword so that the butt faced upward
and hit Konnyrs gold wrist band so hard that it
broke into hundreds of little pieces.
NOOOOO. Konnyr howled. He fell to his knees
and began pounding the dirt.
Oh, get over it, you big baby. Norah said. She
turned her attention towards Dontae, who
rubbed his chest where Konnyr poked him at.
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She pointed one of her blades towards him.
Dont hold back.
I dont plan to. Dontae replied. He swung his
staff towards her head and she parried it away.
She rolled forward and struck towards his
wristband but he deflected the attack. Norah
recovered quickly and punched him directly in
the chest. Dontae gasped for air and fell to his
knees, dropping his staff out of his hands. Norah
gasped.
Dontae, are you okay? Norah said, worriedly.
He looked over at her in pain and suddenly the
ground around her exploded, knocking Norah
several feet in air. As she fell, a bunch of flowers
and plants sprouted out of the hole, almost
forming a bed. She landed softly on them and got
back on her feet.
That was a cheap shot. Norah said sounding
vaguely impressed.
Thanks. Dontae said, rubbing his head.
But, your opponents out in the field will not give
you a second chance. Once youre down, thats it
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for you. You have to learn how to utilize your
powers as best as you can. Otherwise, you wont
get stronger.
Norah could feel something inside of her
rumbling. As if something ancient awoke inside
her. Her senses became enhanced. The pungent
smell of the air became stronger than before and
her focus became sharper, being able to notice
the details of the buildings and grass around her.
Norah peered into her blade and saw her
reflection. The green tips around her hair
disappeared completely and a green symbol,
three lines enclosed in a circle, almost like a leaf,
burned brightly on hair forehead. She looked at
her arms which were covered with dark green
veins. They almost looked like vines. Her brown
irises looked completely pitch black. Norah
turned her attention towards Dontae who looked
terrified.
You, Youre a Rygon? He spoke, looking
completely bewildered.
Not exactly. Norah answered calmly. You
could say its a failed transformation. Somewhere
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between transforming into a Rygon, I sort of had
trouble dealing with my insecurity. I physically
beat it. But, mentally, it remained there. As a
result, this is what I transform into. I guess you
can call it a Semi-Rygon or a Saigon.
What problem did you have to deal with?
Dontae asked. Norah clenched her sword a bit
tighter, she noticed that there were now deep
green Obian markings engraved onto it. She
didnt understand what they meant.
Dont worry about that. Worry about me.
Norah threatened, looking Dontae directly in the
face. She rushed him with blinding speed and
rammed into him. His staff flew out of his hand
as he landed on the ground. He turned over and
crawled on his stomach trying to reach it.
Not this time. Norah said as she forced a thick
vine to erupt from the ground and wrap itself
around Dontaes left foot. She willed the vine to
throw him in the air. Norah made her vines form
a spring and used them to boost herself off the
ground towards Dontae. In that moment, it felt
as if time slowed down. They were facing each
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other now, Dontae staring directly into her eyes
and Norah staring into his. She whipped out her
blade and slammed it into his silver wristband,
disintegrating it into nothing. Dontae fell back
towards the Earth and crashed with such force
that it made a hole in the ground.
Two down, Norah said as she landed, two
more to go. She looked around, trying to find
Felix but she didnt see him. She turned and
looked down the road. At first, she didnt see
anything. But then, Zabrina materialized from
thin air.
Is that the best you can do, Norah? Zabrina
yelled. Zabrina rocketed towards Norah, using
her flames to accelerate the process. Norah
dropped her blades on the ground.
I thought youd never ask. she said with a
smirk. Norah ran towards Zabrina, jumped off
the ground and sent her fist colliding with
Zabrinas. The ground exploded from the
pressure and an explosion ensured, leaving
Norah helpless as she fell to the ground and
passed out from exhaustion.
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CHAPTER 8
INTO THE ABYSS
Norah suddenly awoke and found herself on the
cold, hard ground. She sat upright, rubbing her
eyes.
"What the heck happened to me?" she moaned.
Norah realized that somebody had brought her
back to the cavern and dropped her on the
ground.
"You awake yet?" A familiar voice to her right
called. Norah turned and saw Felix and Zabrina
putting on some sort of dark combat suit. She got
up and walked over to them. Zabrina tossed
Norah the same exact combat gear that she and
Felix were wearing.
"Congratulations," Zabrina said solemnly, "you
all completed the training and you, Norah, are
the winner of the battle."
"What?" Norah said, dropping the clothes out of
her hands.
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"If you might recall," Zabrina said as she sat
down to fasten on a pair boots, "when you and I
clashed, the energy that we released blew apart
the center of the sector. There were no more
buildings after. When everyone came over, they
said that we were both unconscious. And
apparently, my wristband broke off."
"But mine didn't?" Norah asked flabbergasted.
"Are you joking?" Zabrina reached into her
pocket and held up a burnt metallic wrist band.
Norah could hardly see anything but charcoal.
On the edges, however, Norah saw a bit of
bronze. Zabrina placed the wristband on a
nearby counter. Norah began to chuckle.
"Oh, Zabrina. You're not bummed out about
losing, are you?" Norah teased. She knew that
Zabrina did not like to lose challenges of any sort.
Zabrina's face turned red and she looked down.
"Don't be foolish," Zabrina answered, "Everyone
is able to go on the mission except Arthur as his
wristband broke first, courtesy of Felix." Zabrina
said, looking disappointed. Norah turned
towards Felix.
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"How'd you break Arthur's wristband? You were
lying on the ground after Konnyr punched you."
Norah said mystified.
Felix cracked a smile. "Well, after Dontae rolled
onto the scene and came between you and
Konnyr, I saw Arthur standing a few feet back. I
lunged towards him and shot his wristband off
like this." Felix made his hand into a gun and a
small flame shot out from it. It hit the wall and
disappeared into smoke.
"Show off." Norah muttered but she smiled.
"Where is Arthur and everyone else right now?
Arthur went outside to try to secure the hatch
up top and Konnyr and Dontae went to stand
watch over him," Zabrina answered, "the
Guardians of this zone are looking for whatever
caused a disruption in the hidden sector." Felix's
skin turned into a sickly shade of white.
"You mean, I could've lost my job if they found
us?" Felix said, chewing on his nails.
"Probably." Zabrina shrugged. Felix looked as if
he wanted to faint.
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"Oh yeah," Felix said, looking embarrassed, "I
almost forgot, thanks for...thanks for protecting
me." That comment shocked her. She didn't
expect Felix to ever say something like that. At
least to her.
"Well, what are teammates for?" Norah said,
smiling. Zabrina poked Norah hard in the
forehead.
"Hurry up and get dressed. We have to move
out! Zabrina said, putting on gloves that had
metal knuckles stitched onto them.
"Now?" Norah questioned, throwing her arms in
the air in exasperation. Before Zabrina could
answer, Norah heard a loud, screeching noise
from the top of the ladder. Seconds later, three
dark figures descended down the ladder. Norah
thought that Guardians had found them, but it
turned out to be Arthur, followed by Dontae and
Konnyr, both wearing black combat gear similar
to everyone else's.
"How's everything looking up top?" Zabrina said
skeptically.
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"Fine...for the moment." Arthur answered,
dusting off his clothes. "The hatch is locked down
and hidden from view, but it sounded as if they
were awfully close. They should pass by with no
suspicion.
Good, good. Zabrina said, although she looked
back at the hatch, as if she expected something
else to come down.
That reminds me, Arthur said as he looked at
Norah, I almost forgot to tell you since you were
passed out. But the woman who stole the package
from Dontae and Felix, I found her location. He
motioned for her to come over to him. He
pressed a button on his watch and a holographic
scene popped up. Norah couldnt see anything for
a moment but then the fuzziness disappeared.
Her short blond hair waving in the wind, her
bright blue eyes surveying the area, her menacing
scar sitting on her lips. There was no mistaking
it. It was the same woman who knocked Norah,
Dontae, and Felix out. Norah felt her hands
trembling. She couldnt believe that she had been
knocked out so easily. Fortunately for them, the
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w0men was holding the package that they were
looking for.
Where is she now? Konnyr said, cracking his
knuckles together. We can go and get it back.
Shes in the middle of the Eastern Zone. I dont
know the name of the building, but Im familiar
with the area. I heard from the surveillance that
they were planning to ram through the border to
bring the package to their boss who lives in the
lands to the east. Unfortunately, we only have a
few hours before they move out. Going through
the entrance to the Eastern Zone and dealing
with security would be a hassle which is why I
suggest for all of you to travel underground.
That, is why Ive been trying to tell you to hurry
up! Zabrina said, tapping her foot impatiently.
All right, all right. Norah said, trying to avoid
the glare that Zabrina gave her. She started to put
her combat gear on. Lets do this.
Youre not nervous, are you? Zabrina asked.
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Who, me? Norah said, pointing to herself.
Never. Norah knew that what she said wasnt
the complete truth. She had no idea what to
expect.
How about you, Felix, Dontae? Zabrina asked
again, directing her attention towards the boys.
Me? Felix said, pointing a finger to his chest.
Im ready to take names, and beat up anyone
who gets in my way! To prove his point, he
threw a swift kick in the air and immediately fell
down.
Apparently so. Zabrina said, trying to stifle
back a laugh. Dontae walked over and picked
Felix up. Felix began to dust his clothes.
Im as ready as Ill ever be. Dontae said, looking
almost as nervous as Norah felt.
Zabrina nodded. Well, lets get a move on, shall
we? We dont want to be late. Everybody form a
circle.
All five of them stood in a circle in the middle of
the cavern. Felix looked around crazily, as if
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expecting them to be shot in the air or something
but nothing happened. He looked over at Dontae
but he seemed just as confused as Felix was.
Er, Zabrina, Dontae said nervously, Is
something supposed to happe-
The ground began to rumble and the area they
were standing on began to sink into the ground.
This is a platform? Dontae and Norah asked
excitedly.
That is correct. Arthur yelled proudly. He
waved goodbye and then walked off to where
Norah couldnt see him anymore.
Felix immediately tripped which made Norah
and Dontae chuckle. Konnyr walked over and
helped him up. Felix saw them and silently swore
to get him back. The platform continued to go
deeper and deeper into the ground until it
reached the bottom. It seemed as if the platform
had brought them to the sewers. The smell hit
Norah right off the bat. It smelled extremely foul.
Like some creature crawled in here and died. It
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immediately reminded her of the hidden sector,
only ten times as worse.
The lights down there made it surprisingly well
lit but that didnt stop her from feeling nervous.
Norah could only imagine how horrible it would
be if an Obian got lost down here.
Guys, Felix said, looking at Zabrina, and
Konnyr. Do you know how to get there?
To the Eastern Zone? Konnyr scoffed. Of
course. Follow me. Norah followed the others on
the trek through the sewers. Norah appreciated
the fact that everyone else was on high alert
because they had taken so many left and right
turns that Norah began to lose count. The path
they were currently on began to grow wider, and
wider until suddenly, they emerged into a large
chasm. One so deep, Norah had no doubt that it
lead to the center of Brion. Norah noticed an
opening on the other side of the chasm which
would probably take them into the Eastern Zone.
But she didnt see how they could make it across
safely.
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Welp, the last time I came this way, a bridge was
right here. Konnyr said miserably.
So, what do we do now? Felix asked, scratching
his head.
Zabrina shook her head, I cant see any paths
that would make any sense and all of my powers
are useless here. Carrying all five of us towards
the opening on the other side is impossible for
me.
What if we worked together, Zabrina? Dontae
proposed. He looked over to the other side and
smiled. We could summon a giant rock bridge
that we could use to cross to the other side.
Zabrina nodded in approval.
That sounds like a plan to me. she smiled.
Everyone took several steps back as Dontae and
Zabrina crouched down, pressing their hands
against the ground. The ground began to shake,
similarly to when the platform descended into
the sewers, but the vibrations were stronger.
Norah didnt see anything happen at first, but
then, two rough, gigantic slabs of rocks popped
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out from both sides of the chasm, moving at an
awfully slow pace. At last, the two slabs
connected together with a loud rumble and now
the group could continue forward. Norah stepped
forward and carefully placed one foot on the
bridge, and then she placed the other.
Feels sturdy enough. she said.
It is, for the time being. Zabrina said as she and
Dontae both got up off the ground. Because of
our combined power, the bridge will be able to
stay up for approximately seven minutes. After
that, it will crumble into nothing. If we are still
on it when it does, it wont be pretty.
On that happy note, lets move, now. Norah
said, continuing forward. Dontae and Zabrina
followed her lead. Konnyr went after them and
Felix brought up the rear. Great, she thought
pessimistically. Because 0f the large size of the
chasm, its taking us longer to cross. It made
Norah nervous with each step she took. It would
only take one wrong move for them to fall into
whatever lie at the bottom.
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When they reached the middle, Konnyr started
sniffing extremely loudly and said, Do you guys
smell anything burning?
Konnyr, stop playing around. Norah said, but
she turned around and saw that Felixs hands
were glowing brightly, just as they had been at
the warehouse. Everyone wheeled around,
staring at Felix in shock. He fell to his knees as
Dontae ran over to him
FELIX!? Dontae yelled.
Stay...back, Felix said holding his hand out,
motioning for Dontae to stop.
Dontae, GET DOWN, NOW! Zabrina yelled.
Felix closed his eyes, his body now glowing,
giving off extreme heat. Konnyr picked Dontae
and Norah up with ease and made a mad dash for
the other side. Zabrina ran towards Felix and
then, he exploded. The sheer force of it the
explosion destroyed half of the bridge and threw
them all backwards. Norah could see Felix hitting
the wall, close to where they entered,