The Broken Thorn
Part One
Parts of Oranbega seem alive. The flickering firelight dancing over ancient stone, the distance sounds of rushing water and moaning spirits, the chanting that seems to emanate from the very walls all combine to create the sensation of an omniscient presence watching and judging.
Into this ancient place a troupe of robed mages led a sobbing group of captives. Four men, three women, and five children huddled together as they were herded deeper into the dim hallways. One of the children, the smallest, stumbled, and a tall, handsome man near the front lifted her up and carried her on his hip. She didnt know him, but she clung to him, burying her head in his neck, and sobbing. His name was Jake Alastar, he was 24 years old, and he had been planning to go see a movie with his sister and her fiancé that night.
They descended deeper into the stone caverns. The captives stared around them, too frightened to appreciate the wonder of what they were seeing, but awed by it nonetheless.
They were made to stop in front of a stone circle containing a whirl of light. One by one they were ushered through the portal. A mage attempted to take the girl from Jake, but he shook his head and walked through, still holding her.
It felt like the falling dream, when you wake up and feel as if you hit the bed, even though you were laying there the whole time. Jakes sneakered foot hit the floor on the other side too hard and he stumbled into the brightly lit room. There was no visible exit except the portal through which they had just entered. The captives were ushered away from the portal, and made to stand in a line against the far wall. When Jake initially refused to put the girl down, the mage threatened them both with his upraised staff, and Jake reluctantly let her slide down to stand on the floor. He held her hand, daring a defiant glare at the mage.
Here they are, Alanak, said one of the green robes.
The old man addressed as Alanak had a long white beard and weirdly glowing eyes with which he quietly observed the captives until the full dozen were in the room. His ornate robe was a rich brown at the shoulders that blended to a rich orange at the hem. His tall hat was brown as well, with white markings. His face was stern as he straightened and strode briskly across the room, his easy movement belying his age.
Alanak walked along the line of captives once, then again, more slowly. The third time, he paused in front of each. Host, he said while standing in front of one of the women, his voice deep, rolling, and powerful. She was led away from the line and placed in a corner, crying softly. The old man stood in front of a sobbing 14 year old girl and stated, Ceremony. The girl was herded away to a different corner. The old man continued down the line, dividing the captives into host or ceremony. Jake noted grimly that the children, one and all, went into the ceremony group, and that only about half of the adults - the healthiest of them - went into the host group. And then the old man was standing in front of Jake and the girl whos hand he held. The man studied the girl from a long moment, and then declared, Ceremony.
One of the green robed mages came to take the girl, but Jake held tightly to her hand. Wait, what are you doing with us? The green-robed mage lashed out his staff and struck Jake right above the navel. Jake crumpled to the ground, but did not release his hold on the girl. What he gasped. What do you want?
Alanak gestured angrily, and the staff struck again, this time on Jakes wrist. His hand went numb, and the girl was pulled away from him. She started crying loudly as the green-robed mage dragged her to stand with the other children and two of the adults.
Now the old man stood in front of Jake. Still stuggling for breath and clutching his wrist, Jake stubbornly pulled himself to his feet. He lifted his chin, and glared at the old man.
Take this one to Kajinast, Alanak said finally. Ill be there shortly.
One of the green robes took Jake by the elbow and led him away. He considered trying to fight them, but he knew hed never find his way back out, and there were so many of them. He made the token gesture of jerking his elbow away, but when the mage grabbed him again, he didnt bother pulling away again.
As they passed back out of the room, through the portal, Jake looked back over his shoulder at the small group of frightened children and wondered what was going to happen to all of them.
---
The view from the roof of the base of the Ghosts Reborn was spectacular. It overlooked an expanse of still blue water. In the distance, a sparkling waterfall tumbled and ran. Founders Falls was a beautiful part of Paragon City, and on this crisp, sunny day, it actually seemed to sparkle.
On the roof of the Ghostss base, an access door opened, and a short, slender figure stepped out onto the roof. Ici Cold was young in age, even if she was one of the more powerful heroes in the city. She wore her platinum white hair in ponytails, and favored her pastel blue school uniform as a costume. Her skin was so pale it was nearly translucent, her eyes the palest blue.
Ici sighed as she stepped out into the sun. She was by nature a cheerful girl, but the base was a somber, dark place lately. It wasnt that Ici didnt share in the grief, she just needed to get away from it for a few minutes. She lifted her face to the sun for a moment, even though there was a core of her that would never be warm, then with a skipping hop, she broke into a run. She ran faster and faster towards the railing, then leapt up, over, and out into the air. As she plummeted down towards the canals below, her face broke into a happy smile, and then she surged upwards again, taking flight and soaring into the sky.
Ici loved flying. It was her favorite part of having powers, and even if the way shed gotten them had been terrifying and painful, it was worth it, just for the joy of flying.
She climbed up toward the clouds, until the air began to thin and it became difficult to breath, then swooped down down down toward the water below. She flattened out just as she skimmed the surface of the water and laughed aloud as she threw a plume of water up behind her. She darted skyward again and slalomed gleefully among the gleaming skyscrapers. She glanced at her wrist unit and saw shed been flying around Founders Falls for over an hour. She really should head back, but.. As she turned back toward the base, she could almost see the black cloud of worry and gloom that permeated the place.
Nope, she said aloud, Im not going back.
And then Walter woke up. Ici had never told anyone about Walter, most especially not the Ghosts. She knew after the Ghosts had rescued her from the Circle of Thorns, and kept her in their base for so long, it wasnt just to make sure she was ok. It was to make sure she wasnt going to turn into a horrible old man. And with Walter yelling and cursing at her all the time back then, there was no WAY she was going to tell them about him. Most of the time she couldnt even understand what he said, and when she could, it was mostly just grumbling and complaining. She ignored him and he was usually quiet. Of course, his name wasnt really Walter, but thats what she called him.
<I will have your soul,> he whispered to her.
Oh, Walter, she scolded aloud, Go back to sleep. Were just going out for a little flight.
<And when I hold your soul in my fingers, I will make you suffer a lifetime of torments for every one of your insolent remarks!>
Im not listening! Im not listening! she sang, and then ducked into the gate that led to Eden. As she flew out over the dense overgrowth, she just kept singing out until Walter finally lapsed into silence again.
---
Jake Alastar was not going to make his movie date. In a tiny room deep inside Oranbega, his body hung horizontally, face-down, his wrists and ankles held outstretched by magic. Directly beneath him was an ornately carved stone table. As he watched, the old man in the brown and orange robe opened an elaborately decorated wooden box and removed a large, dark wooden spike. It was carved to resemble a thorn, except that it was broken at the very tip, where it should have been the sharpest. Alanak glanced up at Jake, then placed the thorn carefully and precisely under Jakes sternum.
Begin said the old man in his deep, powerful voice.
There were four of the green robed mages in the room, and two of them began chanting. The other two drew wicked daggers and approached Jake, veering to stand one on either side of him.
Wait! Jake cried out, Wait, stop!
They ignored him completely. In careful unison, they made a shallow cut in each of Jakes arms, from wrist to elbow. He cried out and tried to pull away, but he was secured far too tightly. He felt his blood flow down his arms, across his chest, and then, when the two red streams met, his blood began to drip down onto the thorn.
Even in the depths of his fear, Jake noticed that his blood was absorbed completely by the wood. There wasnt even a stain to show where it had fallen. He watched as another drop, and another landed on the wood and vanished.
A humming arose in the room. It did not come from the chanting mages, and Alanak stood silently in his orange robe. But still... a deep, throbbing hum began to pulse through the room.
More, said the old man, and the two knives cut again, this time biting into the muscles of Jakes shoulders. He screamed this time and began to struggle in panic, but that just made the blood flow faster, and the humming grew even louder. Again, he said, and the knives cut once more. Again. Shallow cuts, symmetrically arrayed across Jakes arms and torso oozed blood. The magic in the room compelled the blood from those cuts to run together and drip down in a single flow onto the thorn. And still there was no visible sign that a single drop of blood had ever touched it.
Panic can only sustain a person for so long. As the knives kept cutting what soon became an intricate design on Jakes body, and as his blood flowed out of him into the thorn, Jake became weaker, and his struggles lessened.
Wait! the old man said abruptly. He approached the thorn slowly and reverently. He leaned forward over it and called, Kajinast?
I am here, a voice answered. It was weak, and dry, but it spoke.
Alanak began jabbering excitedly in some ancient tongue, but the voice from the thorn spoke again, I cannot walk again until the thorn is whole, it said.
What must we do, Kajinast? the old man asked.
The room was silent, then the voice, thin and airy now, spoke again, You.. must.. find...
The voice trailed off into silence. Alanak hunched over the wooden thorn for a long moment, then straightened up. He gestured at the two mages with knives. Finish! he commanded.
The two mages drew back their knives. Jake choked out, No! Dont! before the knives sank to the hilts in his heart. Jake Alastar - who had been thinking of asking out that red-headed waitress at the In-Front steakhouse, who was leaving behind a sister who would never know what had happened to him, who had tried to keep a frightened girl safe - bled out the last of his life onto an ancient wooden thorn that drank his blood greedily.
What must we find, Kajinast?! the old man demanded.
The voice was strong now, as it answered. You must find Ici Cold!
---
Ici swooped happily in the blue skies over Eden. Shed taken a few pot shots at some Nemesis below, but she wasnt really in the mood for a fight. She flew high and fast and found herself near the gate that led into The Hive. She told herself not to be foolish. There was no need to take risks. And, yet, she found herself hovering over the deceptively peaceful hilly, green ground that was the entrance to the Hive. She flew up into the sky, still relishing her flight, but keeping a close eye out for the local denizens.
She felt Walter wake again. She hadnt felt him so strong since she first woke up to his ranting voice. He didnt say anything at first, but she could actually feel his sudden excitement.
Walter? she said aloud.
For a long moment, there was no answer at all. <I am here> he said abruptly.
Ici rolled her eyes. Well, I didnt think youd gone anywhere. Darn it.
<I cannot walk again until the thorn is whole>
No chance of that! she laughed. Im not going anywhere near-
He spoke again, <You.. must.. find...>
Oh, Walter! Go back to sleep! she said in exasperation.
There was no response for a long moment. Then Icis whole body jerked as Walter suddenly came fully awake. His voice thundered through her, < You must find Ici Cold!> Ici yelped as she distractedly flew head on into a large swarm of the vicious bees that occupied the hive. She was suddenly engaged in a treacherous battle for control of her own body, even as the bees stung her over and over again. And then blackness overcame her mind, and she plummeted out of the sky.
The Broken Thorn
Part 2
Ici woke slowly. Her skull throbbed with a blinding headache and Walter was roaring inside her mind. She clapped her hands to her ears but it made no difference. She opened her eyes slowly. Familiar faces hovered over her and strong hands were trying to hold her down, but she couldnt hear what they were saying over Walters enraged ranting. She closed her eyes tightly and shook her head. Being safely back in her base just filled her with a new fear: what if they found out? What if they heard him? What if they knew?
<I will roast your worthless soul over burning rock! I will give it to demons for unending anguish! You will spend your eternity trapped in a prison of crystal! I will take everyone you ever cared for and make them my TOY!>
Ici curled into a tight ball on the hospital bed, clutching at her aching head as Walter lapsed into his ancient tongue and continued babbling insanely. She moaned and rocked, and didnt even feel the needle as her concerned friends sedated her. She slid without protest into a drugged sleep.
---
Ici slept fitfully. She had weird dreams of Oranbega mostly, some were memories of her time as a hero, some were memories of her brief, terrifying stint as a captive, and some had no relation to her life at all. But, as she drifted slowly awake, she became filled with a sense of urgency. It was important that she wake, but it was as hard as digging her way out of a buried coffin. Inch by inch she crawled up through the darkness until finally she was able to open her eyes.
Nooooo! she screamed.
<Noooooo!> echoed a furious Walter.
Ici stumbled backwards away from the ornately carved stone door. She recognized it as one of the hidden entrances to Oranbega. She glanced anxiously around. The Hollows? she marveled aloud. She looked around again, hoping for some explanation for how she had come to be there, but there was nothing. Walter was raving inside her head, shouting and cursing in that ancient language of his. She shook her head once, and then shouted, Shut up, Walter!
Ici caught movement out of the corner of her eye and whirled towards it. She saw a group of five Circle of Thorn mages running towards her, but before she could react, dark, oily ropes erupted from the ground at her feet and wrapped around her ankles. She winced at the nasty cold feeling on her legs, but wasted no time fighting back against the attack. She flung blast after blast of ice and frigidly cold air at the mages, but held in place as she was, she was easy target for their attacks. She could feel herself growing weaker and weaker, but she was slowly whittling down the odds as well. One green-robed mage fell, then one of the thorn wielders.
Abruptly, the tentacles fell away, and Ici launched herself skyward. She couldnt leave mages this powerful running around The Hollows, however, so she hovered over them, exchanging blows, swooping down and then climbing upwards to avoid their attacks. Another of the thorn wielders fell, and then she was dragged out of the sky again by the slimy black tentacles. She set her teeth in a snarl, reached down deep inside and put everything she had into one last attack. The fury of the worst winter storms descended on them with ice, snow, and bitter cold. They tried to run, but the ground had become treacherously slick, and they slipped and fell. The second green-robed mage dropped and lay still, but the last one was still standing when the storm was over.
Ici panted for breath, struggling for just one more attack. Her enemy was nearly finished, but she had nothing left.
His face broke into an ugly smile as he advanced on her. Alanak will be pleased, he said. He reached out his hand to grab her arm. She jerked away, the sudden spurt of revulsion giving her just enough to launch one last attack on the mage. His surprise was plain on his face as the ice splattered into his chest and knocked him flat. He tried once to get up, and then lay still.
Ici leaned on the rocks, gasping for breath, watching as one by one the mages were teleported away. Why had they come for her? She had no idea, but she had no intention of sticking around to see if any more were coming.
She pulled out her base teleporter and activated it. It began its slow, bright activation sequence. But the more brightly it glowed, the more she wondered if she really wanted to return to the base. They would ask her questions, want to know what was going on. Since she was very afraid she was about to turn into a horrible, evil old man, she really wasnt interested in answering those questions. Just as the teleporter flared to life, she deactivated it again and launched herself into the sky. After a moments thought, she headed for the Skyway gate. She didnt even spend any time chatting with the handsome gate guard, just flashed her gold bordered security card and went through.
She found an out-of-the-way motel and rented a room at the end of a wing and slammed home the bolt closing her rented door behind her. She sat in the dark, with her knees under her chin, and tried to think of a way to get things back to normal.
She just couldnt involve the Ghosts. Everyone was so sad and stressed already, she didnt want to do anything to add to it. Besides, if they knew she heard Walter, they would decide she was possessed by a CoT mage and... then what? Prison? Exorcism?
<Soon, soon> crooned Walter deep inside her mind.
Ici crawled under the covers, put the pillow over her head, and willed herself to sleep.
---
The walls of that small room deep inside Oranbega still thrummed with magic. A pair of green robed mages knelt and chanted around the stone table where the broken wooden thorn still lay.
Alanak strode into the room. Kajinast! I am here!
The voice rose through the room, My time is limited, Alanak! I do not have time to wait for you!
Alanak paused before answering, I am here now.
The thorn spoke again, Do you know a seer, a palmist, a fortune-teller, a diviner, a telepath who is loyal to us?
I know just the one who can help us. A shopkeeper - Dana. Shall I bring her here?
Her name is meaningless! Bring her to me. I must teach her, and quickly!
The Broken Thorn
Part Three
Part 3
Ici woke again, trapped in blackness. Shed heard voices, but couldnt understand them. Something very bad was happening, and she needed to wake up! She struggled and fought to open her eyes, to control her body, but she could not escape the darkness. She had a panicked moment, wondering if Walter had managed to wrest control from her once and for all, and if the remainder of her life would be spent trapped in this black void, then, abruptly, she was wide awake.
She was standing on a dingy street in front of a shop window with stick on letters as its only signage. She turned, and found herself face to face with an alarmed, middle-aged, plump woman. Her frizzy hair of indeterminate color was pulled back in a bun in a futile attempt to tame it. She wore a gauzy, tie-dyed skirt, rope sandals, an embroidered peasant blouse, and strings of beads from her neck, wrists, waist, and hair. She stared at Ici with wide eyes and one hand still lifted in a warding gesture.
Your aura... she said, it changed...
My... aura? Ici repeated.
I felt it.. You were so... dark. Then you crossed my boundaries, and.. It changed. The woman peered more closely at Ici, Are you alright? she asked.
Ici stared back at the worried, kind eyes of the stranger, and let herself slump against the wall. No. No, Im pretty much the opposite of alright.
The woman reached out gently and took Ici by the elbow. Come inside and sit down. You can call me Dana.
Dana led the way into the cramped, dim shop. Windows were covered with overlapping sun-catchers of every imaginable description. The air was redolent with patchouli, and every available space from the closely packed shelves to the very window ledges was crammed with merchandise. Books covering topics ranging from wicca to snake handling to black arts, beads, crystals, tarot decks, powdered herbs and other assorted spell components, small carved totems, and even a rack of crudely humorous greeting cards.
They brushed through a beaded curtain behind the cash register in a tiny room with a couch, a TV, a table, a water cooler, and a mini-fridge. Dana settled Ici down on the couch and handed her a soda. Ici clutched it in both hands and took small sips as she began to shake with reaction.
Now, tell me, what is the problem? Dana asked.
Ici took a sip and looked up. Im a hero... she said.
Well, of course, dear, I recognized you, Dana answered.
Ici nodded, and looked down at her hands. I didnt do anything special to become a hero.. It could have been anybody. It just... it just happened to me...
Before she was Ici Cold, she was Brittany Frost, and a more bubble-headed, shallow girl was not to be found in Paragon City. She attended the best private school, obsessed about clothes, makeup, cars, and boys. She snuck the hems of her uniform skirts up a few extra inches to show off her legs, and worried far more about whether she could make captain of the cheerleading squad than she did about the still ongoing recovery efforts from the Rikti war.
Brittany was walking home from school that day because shed been grounded from driving, and she was too stubborn to ask her parents for a ride. Shed taken a shortcut across an alleyway, and been grabbed. The men were terrifying in their robes and casual uses of magic, and no amount of crying, screaming, demanding made any difference.
She was just one of a group of captives led down into Oranbega. She was awed into silence by the ancient walls, cowed into submission by the casual force the mages used on the captives.
She was taken deeper and deeper into the underground city, until they entered a vast room with pools of water around the edges, enormous braziers providing the light, and guarded by huge demons. She was nearly paralyzed by fear by the time she was handed over to a group of a half-dozen mages. She was firmly held in place while they formed a circle around her and began chanting and gesturing. Before she could react, she was surrounded by a green fog that lifted her off the ground and held her immobile. She squirmed and wriggled in sudden terror, but was held fast.
The mage who had held her until the chanting began left the circle and opened an ornately carved box. He reverently removed a dark, wooden thorn and carefully re-entered the circle holding the thorn in front of him like lance.
Brittany had no idea what he had in mind, but the look in his eyes terrified her. She struggled with all her strength to be free, but was held fast, helplessly watching him approach. He was within arms reach of her when he paused and looked back at the corridor beyond. Brittany became award of shouts and screams, metallic clangs and meaty thuds. Several mages ran into the room, shouting warnings and waving arms.
The mage holding the thorn looked back at Brittany with a determined set of his jaw. He carefully placed the point of the thorn right over her heart. She finally understood what he meant to do and began to scream in hopeless terror.
He pushed against the thorn, and Brittany screamed anew as the needle-sharp point penetrated her skin. She struggled wildly against the magic holding her, to no avail. Shed never felt pain this intense and it grew worse by the second as the mage pushed again. The point penetrated her ribs, and it suddenly became hard to breathe. She didnt even have the air to whimper a protest.
She thought shed surely die from the pain when suddenly the thorn was struck at a glancing angle way from her by a glowing sword of ice. The thorn hit the ground, and as the mages stopped chanting, Brittany hit the ground as well. She put a hand to her chest as she gasped for air and could feel the skin moving under her palm. After just a few seconds, there was no wound to be felt at all. Brittany looked up and saw the thorn, its tip broken off, lying on the ground a few feet away. She stood up abruptly and gingerly kicked the broken thorn away from her.
The room was filled with people fighting. Even in her fear and shock, Ici recognized some of them as The Ghosts Reborn. The man who had knocked the thorn away from her was called Atarax, he was followed by a tall, slender woman in red leather that she recognized as Sooner Spirit, and behind them were Ice9, Broken Shadow and Celestial Nav.
Brittany danced back to stand against the wall and watch the fight wide eyed. Her hand kept going to her chest, where thorn had entered. There was no pain, but she could feel a chill seeping out of it, permeating her body. And then she heard the voice she would eventually call Walter for the first time. It roared out angrily, and, even though she couldnt understand, she could tell he was furious. He ranted, his voice growing so loud she clutched her head, dropped to her knees and moaned.
Hey! Hey, kid.. Are you ok? She looked up, wide eyed, at Atarax and the other heroes standing in a semi-circle in front of her.
I- I- dont... Brittany paused, and realized for the first time that she couldnt tell anyone she heard a voice in her head. They would think she was crazy. I dont feel well. She patted her chest again. Theres something in me, I think.
The heroes exchanged worried glances, and Atarax said, no.. no I stopped them before they finished it. He turned. Look, there it is, see?
Sooner Spirit picked up that thorn and brought it back to the group. Its.. broken. she mused. She looked thoughtfully at Brittany.
Brittany was wracked with a savage chill, Im so cold. She wrapped her arms around her shoulder and shuddered.
Weve got to get her out of here, Celestial Nav said, glancing around the now quiet room.
Ice9 added, Bring the thorn.
Just then, a counter-attack of mages charged into the room. The heroes were back on the attack, and Brittany stayed pressed back against the wall, watching fearfully. She was growing colder and colder as they continued to fight, so cold she couldnt even shiver.
A pair of mages broke off from the fight and ran straight at Brittany. The heroes either didnt see or werent able to break away to help her. The pair grabbed her by the elbows and started to drag her out of the room.
Brittany, filled with fresh terror, pulled away, screamed Nooooo! at the top of her lungs, and threw her arms in the air. From somewhere deep inside, she released the cold and found herself standing in the middle of an icy rain. The two mages ran out of the stingingly bitter cold as the heroes at last responded and finished them off. The rain tapered off, and Brittany realized the heroes were all staring at her.
Cmon, said Atarax, shaking his head.
Sooner Spirit exchanged a significant glance with Ice9, shook her head, and looked hard at Brittany. Perhaps youd best come back to our base for bit.
Ici finished off her soda, and looked back up at Dana. ...and thats how it happened. I stayed with them long enough to show everyone I wasnt going to turn evil, told my parents I was dropping out of school and becoming a hero.... and every now and then, I hear a voice.
Dana looked thoughtful, But... what happened to the thorn?
They tried some stuff on it, but it couldnt be hurt, and it didnt seem to have any special powers left. They turned it over to that chick at MAGI, and... here I am. I think they believe that breaking the thorn killed the soul inside, and.. I never told them any different.
And Walter seems to be getting stronger now? Ici nodded. Dana smiled reassuringly. I think I can help you, Ici. I know a binding spell. We can do it together, and bind Walter so he cant bother you any more.
Really? Ici felt a flare of hope, but a small, cynical part of her was muttering about things that seemed too good to be true. What would we have to do?
Dana leaned forward. We would need a flawless crystal, of which I have several, we would drink a special tea brewed especially for this ritual, and then I do some chanting.. And then no more voice in your head.
Ici shook her head. Im sorry. You seem nice, but I dont know you. Im... Ive got to talk to someone. Ill go to... Azuria, or Cadao. Ici stood abruptly. Thank you for listening, but.. I just cant.
Several expressions flitted over Danas face before finally settling with concern. But, Ici... what if-
Ici strode quickly to the door. Im sorry, Dana. I cant.
A weight seemed to have fallen off her. The decision to seek help from someone she trusted made it seem as if things were already better. She pushed the door open and strode out through the door. She smiled up at the overcast sky and lifted into flight, but as soon as she crossed the boundary of the shop, the blackness swelled up, overwhelming her. Her vision was fading to black, she fell to the sidewalk and felt Walter come roaring out from deep inside.
<The last time! No more shall you push me aside! Your soul will never know another moments peace!>
With the last will she had, Ici turned around and crawled back toward the shop. As if through a dense fog, she could see Dana stretching out a hand for her. Ici reached out, and as she felt herself losing the battle, Danas hand closed over hers and dragged her back into the shop.
Walter vanished with a furious cry, and Ici curled up with her head in her hands.
Dana crouched in front of Ici and reached out to touch her shoulder. Let me help you
Ici looked up at her, fought back terrified tears, and nodded, once.
The Broken Thorn
Part 4
Sooner Spirit stood in Azurias office waiting while the mage translated the scribbled notes. Sooner watched young heroes running busily about in city hall and was suddenly awash in nostalgia. It seemed so very long ago she had first stepped into this office and hesitantly approached Azuria for the first time.
Here we are, Azuria said. I understand this was merely a phonetic transcript, but I simply couldnt make out some of the words. Most of it is threats of some sort or another, torture your soul, make you my slave, fiery torment, but here she said pointing at her notes, she mentions making the thorn whole, being free of this half-life, and living again at last. Azuria looked up at Sooner, concern in her eyes, Ici Cold was saying this, and it was all in ancient Oranbegan?
She was lying in our infirmary, holding her head and screaming this gibberish. Sooner asked, Azuria, what ever happened with the thorn we brought you?
Let me check. Azuria leafed through a file cabinet and removed a thick binder. Let me see.. There were three separate studies performed on it. Each found that while there was still significant magical energy contained within the thorn it was functionally inert. It was finally placed in archival storage and there it remai- Azuria broke off and frowned. She swiftly turned pages back and forth in the binder. She looked up at Sooner, worry plain on her pretty face. One moment, Sooner, please.
Azuria picked up her desk phone and dialed quickly. She whispered urgently into the phone, and then stood, staring into space, obviously waiting on hold. After a long, long wait, in which Sooner became more and more certain what Azuria was going to say, Azuria jerked, glanced quickly at Sooner, and put the phone down.
The thorn, she said slowly and reluctantly, has been stolen from the MAGI vault.
---
Ici sat cross-legged on the couch in the back room. Dana had picked out a lovely pale blue crystal, strung on a white ribbon, and hung it around Icis neck. She placed a delicate china cup full of a strong smelling brew into Icis hands, and then stood solemnly before her.
Are you ready? she asked quietly. Ici nodded reluctantly. Ok.. Drink the potion, and then sit back with your eyes closed. Youll feel calm and peaceful, and may fall asleep. Ill wake you when its done.
Ici nodded and sipped the jade green, thick liquid. It has a strong overtone of anise, and something mustier underneath. She wrinkled her nose, but forced herself to drink all of it. She looked up to see Dana smiling with satisfaction at her, and something in that smile unnerved Ici. She started to stand, but the room was spinning and she fell back.
Wait... she protested. I dont know-
Just close your eyes and relax now. Itll be over very soon.
Danas words reached right through Icis concern, rode straight over her will. Ici obeyed. She leaned back against the rough wall behind her and closed her eyes. Dana began to chant, and the words, the rhythms, rang alarm bells deep inside the part of Ici that was still awake, and becoming more frightened. She tried to shake off the vicious lassitude that had overtaken her, but she just kept sinking deeper and deeper into sleep.
That was when the pain started. It felt as if something was trying to claw its way out of her chest. The added impetus of her sudden anguish finally woke her enough to open her eyes. Dana was surrounded by a green mist that sent terrifying tendrils drifting throughout the room. Ici felt as if her limbs were made of lead, but she dragged her hand to the flesh over her heart and was terrified to feel her skin bulging and crawling.
No, no, no-no-no, Ici murmured. She managed to roll onto her hands and knees and inch by inch tried to crawl off the couch. The pain grew worse, her ribs felt like they were being ripped apart. Her skin swelled and then split open. Ici screamed and fell back. She shrieked as she felt something crawl out of her skin. She put one hand to her chest and looked down as a conical piece of bloody wood fell into her palm.
Dana lunged forward and snatched the wood from Icis palm. Ici collapsed back onto the bed, suddenly warm and flush. With the pain fading, the potion was taking control and dragging Ici back into sleep. She blinked, and thought idly that she really should wake up as a trio of green robed mages entered the back of the shop. And then she slept.
---
Azuria sat in her office, studying the hand written notes again. She remembered Ici Cold as a novice hero. The girl had been unfailingly cheerful and delighted in each new manifestation of her powers. Of course, MAGI knew the source of her powers was the small cone of enchanted wood imbedded next to her heart, but there had been no indication that Ici was in any danger from it. But now, Azuria wasnt sure if she was more concerned that a hero of Icis power was apparently losing her mind, or that the happy young woman she remembered had vanished and no one knew if she was safe or not.
Azuria was trying to put together any words she could from the phonetic spellings, but having no more luck. There was one word or phrase repeated several times, though, that she didnt know. A curse word, perhaps? A proper name? The more she studied the notes, the more convinced she became that it was significant. Finally, she tossed down her pen, and dialed the phone.
I need Akarist, she said. I dont care what time it is, I need him here, now. She listened and nodded. Bring him to my office as soon as you can.
---
Ici was very uncomfortable. It was hard to breath and the world was moving. And she was so warm. She couldnt remember when shed felt this warm. Her head throbbed in time with a deep ache in her chest. She snapped awake, remembering the pain, and the CoT mages entering the room as she lost consciousness.
She was slung over a green-robed shoulder, and she instantly recognized the warm stone illuminated by flickering fire as tunnels in Oranbega. She screamed, and pushed away from the mage holding her. She landed hard on her knees and stumbled up quickly. The three mages all spun to face her. She was confused but knew her first priority needed to be escape. Then she could try to figure out what had happened.
She reached for the cold, and it wasnt there. She closed her eyes and tried again, but there was nothing. There was no cold, no sleet, no snow, no ice, not even a north wind. Her eyes flew open and she nearly fell again. Her mind chanted to her Ive got to get out, Ive got to get out! She leapt up into the air, to fly high and fast away, but crashed back onto her hands and knees. She couldnt fly. Her mind reeled as she struggled to understand. She put her hand to the swollen painful wound on her chest and realized finally what had happened. She wasnt a hero anymore.
The Broken Thorn
Part 5
Sooner finally collapsed into bed. She had spent the day chasing down CoT trying to find any word on what had happened to Ici, but had had no luck. Ici had woken up in the infirmary much earlier than anyone could have expected given the dose of sedative shed been given, walked out without a word, and vanished.
With the news that the broken thorn had been taken from the MAGI vault, Sooners concern for Ici was twisting her guts. Sooner had finally returned to the base and spent hours more pouring over every book the Ghostss library possessed on the Circle. No closer to finding her friend than before, Sooner had just crawled under the covers and closed her eyes when someone pounded on her door.
What! she yelled, reminding herself once again that she really needed to find her own apartment.
You have a call, from Azuria.
At 3:15 in the morning? Sooner jumped out of bed and scrambled into her clothes. Ill be right there! She sprinted out the door, after stubbing her toe viciously on her dresser, and flew at top speed down the hall. She snatched up the phone and nearly shouted, Azuria? What is it? Have you found her?
There was a long silence before Azuria finally answered. No, sadly, no. I have important news, though. That word she kept saying Kajinast - I asked Akarist what it was.
Sooner shivered as dread climbed her spine with cold claws. Azurias reluctance to speak the news - news so important shed called in the middle of the night - was an ominous sign of just how bad that news would be. What is it, Azuria? Just tell me.
Azuria sighed audibly. Its a name. An extremely powerful mage - one of the most powerful of them. If the thorn is missing, and Ici as well, we have to assume they mean to reunite the pieces and bring Kajinast back to life. It cant be allowed to happen. It would make them so much more powerful.
Sooner let out her frustration is a hiss between her teeth before answering, But we have no idea where they are!
Akarist may have an answer there as well.
---
Ici walked in a stunned daze between the three mages. She kept looking at her bare arms, a vibrant pink she hadnt seen since her first trip into Oranbega. She wished she understood what had happened to her, but it was too soon, too much to wrap her bewildered brain around.
They descended deeper and deeper into the ancient city, and finally the truly important question occurred to Ici: What was going to happen when they got where they were going? All of a sudden all of Walters random rants and threats took on a whole new urgency. What if he had a way to make it happen?
It was a much more immediate fear than her concern over spending the rest of her life never being able to fly again. It finally roused her out of her dazed confusion. She lifted her head and began to look around. She knew she needed to act, and quickly, before she found herself in a situation she couldnt escape.
They passed through a stone doorway, and into a room design Ici had seen many times before. She didnt think about the long drop, she didnt think about the fact that she couldnt even hover to break her fall. She feigned a stumble to get closer to the edge, and dived off the stone shelf. The fall seemed to take forever, and she couldnt stop herself from screaming as she fell faster and faster. She hit the water below and it felt like slamming into asphalt. All the air whooshed out of her lungs as the water closed over her head. She hit bottom, and refused to even acknowledge the possibility she might be injured. She kicked up to the surface and took a desperate breath, coughing and sputtering, as she broke the surface.
Her captors were scrambling down the long stone ramps. With a strength born of pure desperation, Ici dragged herself out of the water and ran for her very soul. She broke around a stone pillar and looked around frantically for an escape. There was a tunnel leading away to her right, and a raging waterfall to her left. She hesitated for just a moment, then she saw a flash of someone in a Ghosts Reborn blue and white uniform beckoning her from within the depths of the waterfall.
Without another moment of doubt, she ran straight into the waterfall. The force of the water knocked her from her feet and she slid back under. The turbulence picked her up and whirled her around, and in seconds she had no idea which way was up or down. She struggled to escape, but it seemed hopeless. Her lungs were burning and she was growing weaker.
Just as she decided that death by drowning was at least preferable to spending eternity as a disembodied soul at the mercy of a vilely evil mage, her feet hit bottom again and she was able to stand. She looked around and found herself in a small cave with no apparent entrance or exit, and no sign of a supergroup mate, either. Then she looked down at the pool in which she stood and realized there was some sort of underwater tunnel behind the waterfall and she must have imagined the blue on white uniform in the tumbling shapes of the waterfall. She pulled herself out of the pool onto the relatively dry stone, and waited to see if this tiny cave was her trap or her haven.
---
With trepidation, Alanak walked into the small room. The broken thorn lay on the stone table, and Alanak could feel a cold stare even though the ancient wood had no eyes.
Kajinast, we have the fragment! he announced. He placed the conical bit of wood near the thorn, where it should have been, were it not broken off.
Where is Ici Cold? the voice demanded.
Alanak considered and discarded a number of answers. She is... lost... in Oranbega.
Lost? the deep voiced scoffed. A powerless girl, and she escaped you?
As you say, she is powerless. She cannot escape Oranbega. She will be recaptured, and soon.
The Broken Thorn
Part 6
In the upper reaches of Oranbega, a stone door slid open and a shadow flitted through. Only the most observant would have even heard a whisper of a footstep as death slid into the realm of the Circle of Thorns.
He crept silently along the stone passages, following instructions given by Magus MuDrakken. With care, he side stepped mages and demons guarding the halls and passed through the magical portals deeper and deeper into the ancient city. There was no need to shed the blood of these mages and no extra money to be had for their deaths, so, on that day, they were allowed to continue breathing.
He made his way to a spectacular room rising high into the air, and dropping down into the depths. Narrow hanging bridges, wooden walkways, and the occasional portal were the only ways to ascend the heights, or descend safely. Following his instinct, he made his way carefully down into the room.
The ground floor was knee deep in water, making it challenging for even a man of his talents to remain hidden. Nonetheless, he persevered, and was soon climbing a smooth stone staircase to a warm and dry hallway. And, just a few hundred feet later, and he found himself in an enormous library. The room was three stories high, and the walls were lined with books. The sheer number of books should have made his task impossible, but he had detailed instructions from his employer, and wasted no time finding his way to the correct section. From there, it was a matter of comparing the scribbled characters on a notecard to the ancient symbols on the spines of the books on the shelf. Not a single title was in a language he understood, but he quickly and efficiently went down the shelf until he found the thick book that matched.
He paused, waiting until the attendants in the room were occupied and began slowly sliding the book from the shelf. When more of its hefty weight rested in his hands than on the shelf, he shrugged his shoulder and the pitch black messenger-style bag on his back slipped around to hang in front of his body. He carefully slipped the book inside and then straightened, readjusting the bag so it hung unobtrusively on his back.
And that was when he was spotted by one of the enormous behemoths. It roared out a warning, and immediately belched fiery breath at him. He dived aside and drew his katana, the lush steel singing as it slid from its sheath. It was now too late to avoid combat, so he embraced it instead. He could have died many times over, out-numbered and out-magicked, but he was skilled, determined, and lucky. Again and again his katana found its way deep into vulnerable bodies, puncturing hearts, severing spines. He was an incredibly efficient killer; he took no joy in it, so wasted no time savoring it. It was the job, and right then, the job required those deaths.
He finished a last behemoth, and spun around to find he was the only living being left in the room. He turned back to the entrance, and that was when the strap on his bag broke and the bag containing the priceless book fell to the floor. He crouched, scowling to see that the strap had been cut most of the way through during the fight. It was a complication, and he didnt appreciate complications on the job. He couldnt carry the book and fight, and it was far too valuable to risk dropping if he was forced to fight again. But, he also wouldnt collect the remainder of his fee standing in that library, so, he carefully cleaned the blade and sheathed it, tucked the book - still in the bag - under his arm, and set off.
---
A voice woke her, a deep, familiar voice, Heroes use their powers to make a difference, powers never make Heroes.
Ici startled awake, but she was alone in her small cave. She was surprised to realize shed actually dozed off, but completely delighted to find she had woken up the same place she went to sleep. She had no idea how long shed been there, but had to assume she was safely hidden. She was hungry and stiff, but while shed slept, she come to a simple plan: escape the cave, recover her thorn fragment, regain her powers. and escape Oranbega Not necessarily in that exact order.
She crouched at the edge of the pool through which shed entered the cave. The surface of the water was deceptively still, but she knew it was more turbulent under the surface. She was more frightened than she cared to admit to herself about the possibility of reentering that wild water and trying to travel down the tunnel. What if, after everything that had happened, she ended up drowning trapped in a narrow stone tunnel?
She shook her head and resolutely hopped into the pool. The water was surprisingly warm as the underwater currents swirled around her legs. She deliberately hyperventilated as she explored the pool with hands and feet. Near the deepest end, she found what shed expected - a large opening extending away from her cave, and turbulence strong enough to knock her up on her toes. She held her breath and sank under the water, but she could not see the end of the tunnel.
She broke the surface of the water. Oh.... this is so stupid! she muttered to herself. Drowning? Or starving to death in this cave? She took a deep breath, and another, and then, with a third, dropped under the surface again and pushed off, swimming hard for the tunnel. She hadnt even made the entrance when a swirling current picked her up, tumbled her around, and slammed her into the floor. She surfaced again, coughing and choking. Oh, this is impossible, she coughed.
Ici was nothing if she was not stubborn and determined. As soon as she had recovered her breath, she tried again. And again. And again. Each time she sputtered her way to the surface just a little more tired than before. She made one more effort, putting everything she had into one last push. She actually made it to the entrance of the tunnel before the wild water grabbed her again. Her head hit a rocky outcropping with a sickening thud, and she was instantly disoriented. She felt water hit the back of her throat and she began flailing frantically, desperate for one breath of air.
Her lungs burned as every cell in her body was clamoring for oxygen. She didnt know which way was up and the only bubbles she could see were swirling around as madly as she was.
Then, like a gift from an angel, she saw a pale hand and arm plunge into the water. She grabbed at it, but she was too weak to hold on. She lost her grip, and slid away again. That was when the hand grabbed her by the shoulder of her uniform and dragged her out of the pool.
She coughed and gagged, trying to drag air into her body. She blinked her eyes clear and gasped again.
That was a dumb [censored] move, the dead man said.
Ice? she choked out, then collapsed.
The Broken Thorn
Part 7
She was in a featureless white room; her friend and mentor Ice9 - who had been dead for nearly two years - was crouching nearby watching her. He was wearing the uniform hed worn when he died, the uniform of the Ghosts. He looked remarkably healthy for a dead man, still tall and powerfully built, more like a man who should be in the thick of battle trading punches, rather than standing back fighting from range. His white hair was still neatly trimmed except for the strand that kept stubbornly falling over his eyes. He was watching her with an expression of mingled amusement, exasperation, and concern.
She dragged herself to her feet, and he stood as well. Am I dead? she asked.
Not yet, he answered. But its a close thing, lil sis.
She scowled. Had he ever called her that? Shed called him big brother a time or two, but couldnt recall if hed ever returned the sentiment. Are you really here or am I dreaming you?
Do you want to talk meta-physics right now? Or do you want to get out of here?
Oh, my god, do I want out of here, Ice! she answered. But I cant!
You can. Youve got to want it, but you can.
I cant swim out, Ice! I cant!
Indeed. You cant. Ici just stared at him, exasperated. Wheres the light coming from, lil sis?
---
Ici sat up in her little cave coughing and sputtering, What? she said, but there was no one there. She coughed again before she was able to draw a good, full breath, and then dragged herself to her feet.
Was it really Ice, or.. Did it just not really matter? She was sure hed never called her lil sis, when he was alive. But, perhaps that was a thought exercise best left for another time.
Wheres the light coming from... she murmured. She glanced around the cave. The light was dim, but it was bright enough to see by. Yet... there was no visible light source. She looked up, at the high ceiling of her cave, and saw three openings with light spilling from all three. One of them, a large, round opening, was very close to the wall. She was filled with a longing for her lost ability to fly so strong it nearly dropped her to her knees.
Instead, she turned to the wall and began studying it intently. She had no intention of staying in that cave a minute longer. Shed never been a rock climber, but knew people claimed they could scale smooth concrete buildings. She was small, light, strong, and facing a rough stone wall. If she couldnt fly out, then she would climb.
She determinedly set her jaw, reached up, and grabbed a small outcropping. It seemed so easy at first. She had a small fall, then started up again. She would locate a new hand hold, reach for it, grab and test her grip, then use it to support herself while she found a new toehold. Then her muscles started to ache and burn and quiver. She found herself plastered against a wall that was starting to curve inward, a climb that was only going to get harder, muscles telling her they had nothing left to give, and a drop far enough to be certain to injure her if she fell.
Despair welled up and slapped her. She dropped her forehead against the wall as tears formed in her eyes. For just a moment, all she could think of was flying around Founders Falls at sunset. It was a memory so beautiful and real that she lost herself in it. She shrieked as her left foot slipped from its perch, and then her right. She tightened her hand grip and hung, terrified, her feet dangling over the stone floor too far below. Then she felt a cool strength steadying her hands and smiled. Whether he was real or not, Ice9 was still with her. She cautiously, slowly, reached with her left foot for the tiny ledge it had rested on earlier, and, when she found it, took some of the strain off her grateful hands. She set her right foot back into place and looked up. If she could reach the chimney above, there was a tiny ledge wide enough for her to rest. Until then, she just had to keep moving.
By the time she reached that ledge, her whole body was aching and trembling. The chimney extended about 20 feet up and narrowed as it got higher. For the first time she wondered if it would be too narrow for her to fit. She wedged her body into the narrow stone chimney, her heels on the ledge, her back against the opposite wall, and locked her knees. She let her exhausted arms dangle down, and lifted her face to the light above.
She would have given just about anything if she could have lifted up and flown out of there right then. She had refused to consider the possibility that she might not recover her powers, but she could no longer hold back the thoughts. Her reckless flight around Founders, Eden, and the Hive that was cut short by Walters awakening might very well be the last flight she ever took. But, that hardly meant that her life was over. Even her life as a hero didnt have to be over. Ahren, for instance, lost not just his powers, but half of his very life when the Shades stole his Kheldian half from him, but he returned, taught himself new skills, and continued the fight. She could do the same. Gun, sword, maybe even an axe. Maybe some armor. She could talk to UPS about nanites, or the Sooner sisters about fighting. And even if she didnt fly under her own power, there were rocket boots or wings she could buy. It wouldnt be the same, but she could still be a hero.
But still, she was filled with a painful longing to regain her powers. Shed even gladly welcome Walters grumbling if it came with the ability to take flight and call the heart of a winters storm. And almost as strongly, she longed for her friends in her safe, familiar base. And... Oh! How she wished shed confided in them when this all first started. They might have been able to help her. And even if they hadnt, she would certainly not be stuck alone and powerless in Oranbega facing the possibility of slow death by starvation if the mages didnt find her first and turn her over to the raving lunatic who had been promising to torture her soul for eternity.
That thought was motivation to resume climbing, even though the burning ache started again almost as soon as she pulled herself up the first time. She was panting, nearly sobbing with the pain by the time she finally reached the top. Her fingers were bleeding, her back was scratched from a near fall, and she wasnt sure she would ever again have the strength to stand, much less walk.
She looked around cautiously, and was more relieved that she would have cared to admit to find the dead end hallway at the top deserted. She dragged herself out by sheer willpower, and was nearly stuck when her hips reached the top. Her body had a few more scrapes when she finally pulled her legs out. She crawled behind a tumble of rocks where the hallway had collapsed, curled into a tight ball, and shuddered with reaction and relief.
And then she was suddenly back in that featureless white room. Ice9 leaned back against the wall.
Well done, he said. Now, you have got to take care of that thorn. It must be destroyed or someone else might one day use it to control you, either directly or indirectly. It must be done, for everyone's sake."
I dont know h-
He spoke over her, It must be done. And, you, Ici, must learn that sometimes even a hero needs to ask for help.
Ice...
But he was gone.
The Broken Thorn
Part 8
Sooner gathered a small group of her friends together. Atarax, Midnightangel, Wulf, Ruby Sapphire, and Ahren sat around a large round table, dwarfed by the large conference room that could easily hold the entire membership of the Ghosts Reborn.
Were going in after her, Sooner said. Akarist says he knows of only one place in this entire hemisphere that would be appropriate for the ceremony to repair a broken thorn. Of course, its directly under Paragon City. So, were going into Oranbega to retrieve the thorn. She paused for a moment, knowing her next statement would not be received well. All of us but you, Ata.
Like hell! he protested. He had been fond of Ici from the moment they found her in Oranbega and her recent difficulties had brought out the most protective side of his nature. He now sat back in his chair, obstinate and angry.
Ata, we dont know where she is. I need you to take a team and see if you can find out what happened to her. She cant have just vanished. Sooner met his eyes and held them. I dont care if you have to break the skull of every CoT in Paragon City, someone has to know where she is. I need you to find her.
At that moment, an old, semi-retired member of the Ghosts walked in to the room. Witch-frost, looking very proper in her knee length suit and her white hair pulled back in a tight, smooth bun, pulled up a chair and joined them. There arent very many ice-sorceresses in Paragon City, she said. We have to look out for each other. She smiled.
Sooner smiled back at her. More fire power - or ice power in this case - was more than welcome. Ok then, Wulf, Ruby, Midnight, Ahren, and Witch, youre with me. Ata, find yourself a team and go find Ici!
Witch leaned forward with a smile, And when you do find her, we will politely kick her [censored] until she tells us what she was thinking!
---
Alanak reluctancy entered Kajinasts presence. Before he could summon the courage to speak, the thorns voice growled at him, Where is SHE!?
We have not yet found her. Alanak answered.
You fools! Idiots! One helpless girl and you cant find her?!
She may be dead. She fell a long-
Then where is the body? Surely her corpse is not more wily than your minions?
Alanak had no answer, he knew that anything he said would just infuriate Kajinast further, so he stood, staring at the far corner of the table.
Find her, you worthless imbecile! Find her now! I have waited FAR TOO LONG! FIND HER! FIND HER!
Alanak broke and ran from the room, as the voice bellowed after him.
---
Ici jerked upright as she heard Walters far too familiar voice echoing through the ancient halls. With a sudden rush of hope, she crept out from behind her rocks and snuck down the hallway. She knew, powerless as she was, shed be finished if she were spotted by even a single mage. For the first time, she wished she wore something besides the pastel blue of her uniform which stood out in sharp contrast to the dusty earthtones of Oranbega.
She followed the deep, rhythmic voices chanting some evil incantation. She clung to the shadows as much as she could, but she was a bundle of stress by the time she found the source of the chanting. It was a small room, and the broken thorn that she thought was safely shut away in the MAGI vault rested on a stone table. The fragment that had been taken from her rested at the tip. The room itself had only two occupants, two mages in green robes chanting and bowing on either side of the table. The hallway leading to it, however, was heavily guarded. She counted a half-dozen mages and three giant behemoths. It was a narrow, well lit hallway with no cover to speak of. Try as she might, she could think of no way at all to get into that room and recover the fragment.
She wedged herself into a narrow nook and carefully considered her options. And slowly realized that she had none. She could not enter the room without being seen, had no hope of fighting her way into the room, and very little chance of escaping Oranbega on her own.
She sank down into a crouch, and, for the first time, felt defeated. She could not recover that lost fragment. She could not recover her powers. She could not imagine how she was going to escape Oranbega. The best she could hope for was that she be killed rather turned over to the being in the thorn. It was hopeless. She put her head in her hands and began to cry.
---
He stalked the halls of Oranbega irritably. The book under his arm grew heavier with each step. One cut webbing strap... it threw off his balance, increased the odds that an awkward movement could cause him to be seen, and could slow down his draw. Ultimately, that one cut strap could cost him the job.
He would likely have noticed the soft noises earlier if not for his irritation. He paused, and heard it again. It was a quiet sound, but not one he usually heard in his jaunts into the ancient city. He turned off his planned path, moving silently and unseen. He crept closer to the source of the noise and finally saw it - or her.
It was a young woman, huddled far back into the shadows of a narrow crevice. She crouched, holding her head in her hands, and her body shook with hopeless, nearly soundless sobs. Every visible inch of her was covered with bruises, scrapes and abrasions. Something in the white-blonde ponytails and pastel uniform was tweaking a memory, but it wouldnt come. He turned and started to walk away. The job did not need another complication. Then, a slightly louder whimper called him back.
What are you doing here? he asked as he approached.
The young woman swallowed a shriek and leapt to her feet. As he saw her face for the first time he cursed under his breath, took the time to set the book aside, and drew his blade. He knew that face. She was a Ghost, she was powerful... her name.. her name... was Ici Cold. With a hero of her power, victory was often a matter of who got the first blow. He held his strike, however, for she didnt even attempt to attack him. She was scrambling back even further into the narrow space, eyes darting back and forth trying to find him, but not even making an attack on the general area. He watched her with narrowed eyes, and considered what he was seeing.
Her eyes fixed on his general location, and she spoke, her voice high and breathy, Who are you and what do you want!?!
He put his sword away. His still didnt understand, but he didnt have to have all the puzzle pieces to see the general picture. This hero was no danger to him. Who I am isn't important, I got what I want. The question is you, why are you here?
She drew herself up and lift her chin like an obstinate terrier. I was out for a moonlit stroll, and took a wrong turn.
Sarcasm, He snorted. Well then, you can stay here... enjoy it while you can. He tucked the book back under his arm and turned to walk away.
There was a long moment when he thought she would let him leave, then he heard her stage whisper, Wait! No, no, no! Come back! He turned and looked back at her, one brow lifted and an expression of exaggerated patience on his face.
She took a couple of hesitant steps forward and lifted her pale blue eyes to his. He could see through the bravado to the terrified kid underneath as she made an attempt to quip, Im supposed to be the main course on a thorns banquet menu. He turned to face her fully, and lifted the other brow. She left out a huge sigh, I... need.... something and I cant get it.
He started to answer, but suddenly became aware of marching footsteps. A lot of marching footsteps. Headed towards them. He snarled a curse under his breath and thrust the book at out her. Hold this. he demanded, as he grabbed her other wrist and started off at a fast walk. Come with me, he insisted when she pulled back. Come now.
The Broken Thorn
Part 9
Ici stumbled a step or two before she caught up with his pace and ran with him. She juggled the heavy bag until finally finding a way to comfortably carry it, as her brain tried to find a way to make sense of this new development. She didnt know who he was, but she knew what he was- no hero could hide that well.
They ducked around a corner out of sight just as a small army of mages and demons marched by their previous hiding place. He pushed her flat against the wall, and crouched, hidden in the shadows, as they passed by unsuspecting.
He turned to face her, and for the first time, she could clearly see him. She held her breath to stop herself from reacting, but she knew who he was. His dark, almond eyes were flat and cold as they considered her. His course dark hair and sallow skin spoke of an Asian heritage, but something in the shape of the face, the jaw maybe, or the cheekbones, indicated there was something European in the mix as well. He was wearing the same sleek black and dark red armor over a lean, toned frame as in the surveillance photo the Ghosts had. He was known as Bounty-Killer, and he was considered extraordinarily dangerous.
She carefully let out her held breath. She didnt know if shed fooled him or not, but she was not about to reveal anything more than she had to this man. What do you want? she asked finally.
I have a job. Ive been hired to acquire this book, he said, tapping the bag Ici still held. I cant fight and carry it, because the strap is broken on the bag. He paused and looked her over once more, Im not in the habit of helping heroes, but we can help each other out.
Ici carefully considered before answering, Ill help you carry out the book, and... youll get something for me.
He raised his brows, clearly surprised. What is this thing, and what does it have to do with your lost powers?
She blanched, but stared back, raising her chin defiantly, Its just a little piece of wood, and who said it had anything to do with anything?
He leaned in close, his nearly black eyes locked on her pale blues. He held her gaze, like a snake staring at a helpless chick before saying softly, I'm not a fool. He straightened abruptly. The only reason you aren't dead yet is because I want to know why they want you.
Ici felt her chin start to tremble, but forced herself to meet that cold stare. Whats up with this book? Whats it for?
Bounty-Killer scowled and crossed his arms. My employer wants it, hes willing to pay good money for it. Thats all I need to know, and more than you need to know. He stood, motionless, his black eyes narrowed.
Ici flung her hands up in the air and looked skyward, as if she expected someone above to be able to see reason. Fine! They took it from me, they kidnaped me, I want it back, I dont KNOW what they want from me, and I want OUT OF HERE!!!
He watched her, for a long moment. She held her breath, waiting. She was just about out of bravado. Then, suddenly he moved, fast as a snake he snatched the book back from her. I think I'll let the Circle have their way with you. He whirled away from her and strode out of the room.
She stood, held motionless by a storm of emotions. Anger, despair, terror picked her up and tossed her around in a ride a hundred times worse than her trip under the waterfall. She took a step, then another. She reached a hand out towards him and could barely manage to speak above a whisper, Please... She coughed, swallowed back a sob, then managed, louder, please help me.
He slowed and stopped. She saw him bow his head and heard a mumbled curse. She let herself sob with relief when he turned back to her. With a carefully expressionless face, he thrust the bag back at her. You carry this book, I'll lead the way to your... little piece of wood, if I suspect anything unusual out of you, I will kill you... Understood?
Ici felt her chin come back up as she opened her mouth to retort angrily. With a display of tact most unusual for her, she closed her mouth with a snap, and nodded once. She took the heavy bag, tucked it under her arm, and waited for him to lead the way.
---
A small team of Ghosts exited a crowded magic shop in Steel Canyon, led by a furious Atarax. He stood on the sidewalk, staring at the stick-on letters proclaiming Danas Mistykal Boutique. With a sudden, explosive exhalation Atarax punched straight through the window, sending shards of glass spiraling wildly through the interior.
He turned away from the window, and activated the supergroup channel on his radio. Sooner, are you there?
There was a long pause before Sooners voice, responded, Ya, Ata, whats up?
The Circle has her. He took a couple of steadying breaths. They tricked her, they set her up. They made her think she was safe. He turned and punched the wall.
What are you talking about, Ata?
Atarax abruptly thrust the radio to Sooner Magic and stalked away, Cyd, Sooners younger sister spoke. Cyd, they made her believe... ah, hell.. Its complicated. They drugged her, they stole her powers, and then they took her into Oranbega. Theyre going to do something to her, we dont know what.. But from the way the shopkeeper was talking... its bad.
They stole her powers?
The bit of thorn that was in her... Sooner Magic answered. They used magic to get it out. She doesnt have any powers without it, and they took her with them. Youve got to get to her. Theyre going to do something awful. The shopkeeper said someone named Kajinast hates her and is going to... Ah, Cyd.... youve got to get her out!
Were working on it, Caryn!
The Broken Thorn
Part 10
Bounty-Killer, hidden in the shadows, studied the job. Nine guarding the hallway, and only two in the room. Getting in would be easy. Getting out might be a challenge. He watched the mages and demons in the hallway and carefully marked his targets, if it became necessary.
He had left Ici, with the book, safely hidden back in the narrow crevice where he had first found her. Now he just needed to take that little piece of wood, escape with it, and then get out of Oranbega with the book, the powerless hero, and her thorn. And, he thought with a tiny crook at the corner of his mouth, find out just a little more about her. He was intrigued by her. She was a puzzle that refused to be solved.
He stood, adjusted the hilt of his katana for easier draw, and crept into the hall. He placed each foot precisely making no noise and leaving no footprint. He was a shadow, as silent and insidious as a puff of smoke from the flickering torches. He danced around the last behemoth and slipped into the room.
He took his time studying it. The magic in the small room was palpable. It tingled over his skin and danced through his hair. It was a distraction, and he took a moment to firmly put the strange sensation out of his mind.
A dark carved thorn lay on the table. There was a jagged break near the tip, and the small piece of wood lying nearby matched the break perfectly. And, yet, she hadnt asked for the thorn, only the tip. And she claimed theyd taken it from her. Well, obviously, shed taken it from them first.
He dismissed the two chanting mages as unimportant. Oh, they would die first if this went badly, but they were no threat. Still, it would be impossible to take that small piece of wood without them noticing, so he decided that he would try to make it so fast they didnt have a chance to react.
He stepped closer to the table and reached out his hand. His mind was reviewing the steps: grab the thorn tip, pivot to his left, sprint for the door.
Then a rolling voice boomed through the room: How dare you enter my presence!? it demanded.
Bounty-Killer stepped back. Disembodied voices had not been included in any of his contingency plans. His gaze flicked around the room, seeking the source, but there was no one. The two mages did not stop their chanting, but they were alert now.
Answer me! Who are you?! the voice spoke again, What are you doing here!
Bounty-killer made his decision quickly. This was about to go badly, so he lunged forward and grabbed the tip of the thorn, thrust it into a pocket, and drew his katana. The two mages leapt to their feet, seeing him finally, as the entire group in the hall turned towards the tiny room. The way was blocked.
Noooooooooo! the voiced bellowed. Nooooooo! Noooo! Stop him! Stop him now!
Abruptly the room was filled with a winter storm. Tiny stinging shards of ice pelted him, and eleven pairs of eyes were focused on one man as he cursed in three languages.
The two mages in the room died first, because they were there and they were easy. He pulled his katana from the second and took two steps to the doorway to make his stand.
The voice in the room continued to bellow angrily, calling for help, demanding that he replace what hed stolen, making threats about his eternal soul. It was just another distraction, like the cold and the stinging ice. He needed to focus on just two things: life and death.
Blood flew from the tip of his katana as he sliced and jabbed. The mages fell, one by one, but they were taking their toll on him as several of them stood back and magically attacked him. Freezing and burning at the same time as the floor underneath him turned to quicksand, he fought grimly. He took pride in never failing a job, and he refused to die over a tiny piece of wood.
He was tiring and blood was flowing from a cut on his forehead. He blinked his vision clear again and fought his way another step forward. The voice had lapsed into guttural nonsense of some ancient language, which at least spared Bounty-Killer the grisly details of his eternal torment.
He could feel his own life seeping away, but reduced his awareness to his sword and his next victim. He pulled his blade from a dying mage with a furious twist and realized there was just one behemoth left between him and escape. One completely healthy behemoth whos awareness of its own victory was written plainly on its face. It would have plenty of time to attack him, probably more than once, before Bounty-Killer could even get to him.
But even as Bounty-Killer started forward, the behemoth jumped and whirled away. Ici Cold stood at the end of the hall. She had tied a knot in the strap of the bag - wearing it around her waist like an oversized fanny pack - and she was throwing rocks at the giant demon. Wishing he had the time to stand there and curse in furious amazement, Bounty-Killer raced forward even as the voice from inside the room cried out Dont kill her! Do not kill her you fool!
The behemoth had already taken a wide-legged stand and lifted its clawed hands overhead. It hesitated, and then it was impaled on Bounty-Killers katana. He pulled it back, and leapt into the air, striking furiously in an overhand blow that tore open its upper body. It collapsed in a pool of demonic ichor and left Bounty-Killer staring at Ici Cold with white-hot fury.
Stop them! Alanak! You fools! You cretins! Worthless! You are all worthless!
Come. With. Me. Bounty-killer grabbed Ici by the front of her shirt and dragged her back to the narrow crevice.
She yanked free of him. Did you get it? Give it to me!
With an a lack of expression that would do a snake proud, Bounty-Killer reached into his pocket and withdrew the cone of wood. He looked from it, to the bag, to Icis pale eyes. He reached inside his shirt and withdrew a lovely silk scarf, with a bright pattern of flowers. The colors were faded a bit with age, but the silk was that much softer for it. Without ever taking his eyes from hers Bounty-Killer wrapped the thorn tip in the silk, and thrust the bundle inside his shirt. When the job is done, he answered her flatly.
Wait! No! I need that! she argued, but he turned away and started trying to find a way to get them out of Oranbega.
Not bad. Could use a bit more imagery, and it'd probably flow better if there weren't so many short, separate sentences, but all in all not bad. I also noticed that character depth seems to have dropped from the respectably high level you had at the beginning, so I don't really feel drawn to the ones introduced later on. That might just be me, though. Still, an enjoyable read. 
"If I had Force powers, vacuum or not my cape/clothes/hair would always be blowing in the Dramatic Wind." - Tenzhi
Characters
Sarcasm?
"Goodbye, Jean-Luc. I'm gonna miss you... you had such potential. But then again, all good things must come to an end..." -- Q
No, it's simple constructive criticism. Devious tends not to intentionally insult people, and even if he does inadvertently do so, it's usually tagged along with a larger, more pronounced dose of the afore-mentioned constructive criticism.
Though, Z, I should remind you, this was Sooner's second work, so it's bound to wind up with a few... Well, problems is the wrong word... Quirks... I think quirks works best. You work them out as you refine your style.
My Stories
Look at that. A full-grown woman pulling off pigtails. Her crazy is off the charts.
Fair enough. Although I'm unable to determine where the imagery could be improved and where the character depth dropped off.
I assisted in editing and refining the story, so I'm interested in more information on how the story is lacking so as to improve my editing and my own writing.
"Goodbye, Jean-Luc. I'm gonna miss you... you had such potential. But then again, all good things must come to an end..." -- Q
Oh no, you both misunderstand. I by no means think this story has troubles. It's a good, straightforward read, allows for interpretation with very little effort, and definitely gets the feel across. All I'm saying is there's room for improvement, which is true of just about every written work.
Now regarding the specific questions, the imagery could be much improved by names and subjects being substituted with synonyms that carry an adjective or two as tagalong descriptor. I see this somewhat in the beginning, where colors are used to describe robed mages, as well as an aged appearance to further Alanak, among other examples, but soon after that such descriptors not only become a little less, but at times disappear entirely, most prominently when Ici enters the picture. Then I see an abundance of 'Ici' and 'she', but not much that refreshes the picture of her in my mind, such as for instance, 'the young woman', 'the pale-skinned girl', or 'the blue of her school uniform fluttered in the wind as she' dot dot dot. Using color, size, and movement as descriptors in such situations often adds a lot to even the simplest actions.
Adding sound would do likewise, conveying to the reader mood and emotion, aside from the obvious nuances of hard and soft. Again I find some of this in the beginning (with Walter's 'deep, powerful' voice - 'powerful' is especially strong imagery there), but it doesn't really continue. Imagery isn't just how things look, it's how they walk, talk, the whole nine yards. Dropping just a hint of such at close, but not overbearing intervals keeps the reader's mind processing and interpreting, always refreshing the initial mental image.
As for character depth dropping off, maybe that was the wrong term. I meant more that the later characters simply didn't 'get' me. They didn't get me to care. They just kind of...did things. I didn't really feel any sense of attachment to them, didn't really care whether they lived or died. At the beginning, Jake, oh Jake, he really got me going. I found myself tagging on his every step, always wanting to know 'what next, what next?' always hoping he was going to be okay - and then he wasn't. Instead, they killed him. 
I suddenly had a sense of dread, a sense of uncertainty, so when I started reading Ici and her myriad of feelings, this stayed with me. When she met Dana, I found myself in the very same situation, hoping she'd be okay, because I had the sense that there was a very real possibility she might not me. I cared for her, I cared for her fate. With the others...sorry, no. They just weren't 'there' enough to make me. Not emotionally, at least.
Now, I get by now that the story's mostly about Ici, but the others have to have some feelings too. If they laugh, they cry, they love, they fear, such is what makes readers care about a character, even if he or she is just a glorified extra used as a plot device (taking about general writing now, not this story in particular). If a character is present with a passion, then merged with that sense of uncertainty, that aura of dread, the reader will get into an 'is he going to be okay?' frame of mind, and the story will be further amplified.
That's about all I got for now. Hope it's what you wanted.
"If I had Force powers, vacuum or not my cape/clothes/hair would always be blowing in the Dramatic Wind." - Tenzhi
Characters
Thank you. I perfectly understand where you're coming from. I'll keep those tips in mind when I'm editing (and writing) in the future.
"Goodbye, Jean-Luc. I'm gonna miss you... you had such potential. But then again, all good things must come to an end..." -- Q
Devious...
Thank you.
I appreciate the constructive criticism.
I suspect that if I had thought it out at the time, I would have said that the physical description of Ici (young woman, white hair, pastel blue school uniform) had been established adequately, that the setting of Oranbega had been described adaquately and that I was moving on to other things. Perhaps that is/was lazy of me and I should keep reminding readers of the details.
As you so rightly stated, this story is primarily about Ici (85% Ici, 10% Bounty Killer, and 5% everyone else). Perhaps I should have put more attention into my supporting cast (though I think you will find that they do have strong emotions to share as we develop)
I most sincerely appreciate the input. Since this story was written and completed quite some time ago, I can't promise you'll see any significant changes as I finish posting this one. But, I will keep your comments in mind in my future stories.
Thank you.
The Broken Thorn
Part 11
Sooner darted up into the smoke-filled air to survey the battle from above, then dived down on yet another mage. She and her small team of Ghosts were battling their way deeper into Oranbega against half-hearted opposition. The Circle seemed distracted, and most of the defenders they met were headed deeper into the ancient city, rather than out to meet them.
A last punch finished off the mage she was fighting, she turned, but before she could attack the next he was engulfed in a jagged spike of ice and then finished off with a glistening ice sword.
Witch-Frost shook the frost from her fingertips and rose to hover next to Sooner. What do you suppose has them so upset they dont even notice theyre being invaded?
Sooner shook her head. I hope its not more bad news for Ici, she said, her worry plain in her voice.
---
Bounty-Killer pushed Ici back into a dimly lit hallway again as another patrol jogged past. He could see she was tiring, but she didnt complain. She did take the opportunity to lean back against the wall and close her eyes. He took a moment to study her fine featured face. He didnt like the way the color was leeching out of her. It wasnt the icy paleness the Reavers reports attributed to her, this was an exhausted grey, with deep blue circles under her eyes, and a faint tremor in the tiny muscles around her eyes. He wondered how much more physical trauma she could take.
He shook his head. It was for the job of course, if she dropped from exhaustion, she was no good to him. Hed never tell her, but he admired her stubborn determination. He didnt know everything that had happened to her, and suspected she would refuse to tell him. Just what he knew about would have been difficult for a fully powered hero; while she was - for all practical purposes - a civilian, still pushing determinedly forward. He just wasnt sure how much she had left in her.
He stayed perfectly still until the last mage jogged by, then lightly tapped her shoulder. He became more concerned when she pushed away from the wall and turned towards him without opening her eyes. She finally lifted her head and half-opened her eyes.
I cant fight this many, he said just above a whisper. You stay here, out of sight. Ill find a safe path out of here. He felt the corner of his mouth twitch when her tired blue eyes shifted to the faint bump inside his shirt and then back to his face. Ill be back. Youll get it.
He gathered the shadows around him and slipped away as Ici tucked herself further back into the dusty darkness of the tunnel.
---
Wulfs rocky form towered over the huge group of Circle with which he fought, while Witch-Frost and Midnightangel stood back and picked them off with frigid blasts of ice and blinding bright bolts of lightning. Sooner swooped down into the middle of the mob and lost herself in the sheer joy of watching her fists bang off their chins.
She was aware of Ahrens return. She had sent him ahead to scout, to try to find Ici and that thorn. He drew his weapon and began taking out mages with a cold precision. She watched him with a sadness that never failed to well up when she remembered the peacebringer and the friendly, exuberant man he used to be.
As the last of the mages fell, Ahren spoke up. I found the thorn. We have to take a portal, but it wont be hard to get to.
Lead the way, then, Sooner said with a nod.
---
Ici curled up against the wall, her eyes closed, her head back, trying to find any last jot of energy anywhere in her body. She was too exhausted to be frightened or to be angry that Bounty-Killer still had her thorn. She just wanted out of Oranbega. And a bed. And a meal. And a bath.
She wiggled around, trying to get comfortable on the hard stone floor. She irritably dragged the heavy book around in front so she wasnt laying on the knot, and tried to adjust it so it wasnt digging into her. She finally pulled it out of the bag entirely to set aside, but grimaced at the feel of the leather binding. Something told her she didnt want to know the source of the leather. She reluctantly turned the book so she could see the title. The archaic script was difficult to read, but she made it out. The Binding of the Inner Light: Souls and their Preservation, Imprisonment, Implantation, and Destruction.
Aaah! she cried out and dropped the book. She winced and looked around to see if anyone had heard her cry out, but there was no reaction.
She very reluctantly picked it up again and, with a moue of distaste, began leafing through it. She found a section detailing the enchantment of thorns to bind a soul so that it could be transplanted into another body. Even though she found the whole book immensely distasteful, she determinedly plunged into reading the chapter, for its relevance to her own situation was too obvious to ignore.
---
Alanak sat at an antique desk, studying a map of the part of Oranbega that he currently ruled. He had several small markers on the map that he moved occasionally as he tried to formulate some sort of plan, and several other markers, representing his mobile forces, set off to the side in neat bins.
Ici Cold had yet to be found. It was as if she had vanished as soon as she hit the water. Someone or something had slaughtered every mage in the great library. The killer had used a bladed weapon, so even if the missing hero werent powerless, that ruled her out. And now there were reports of a team of Ghosts Reborn in his city as well, undoubtedly come to rescue their missing sister.
Alanak was ancient. Far older than his current stolen body, he could still remember the tremors that shook Oranbega when the Warlords of Mu attacked tens of thousands of years ago. In the millennia that had followed, Alanak had known victory and defeat, many times. He had seen his beloved home sink beneath the earth to languish forgotten. He had slumbered away the years when his soul lay quiescent inside a thorn. He had known the surprising pain that accompanied rebirth, the excitement of the battle to vanquish and discard the soul of a host body. And he had led the expedition that found Kajinasts thorn. He had been there when they pulled the chest from beneath the fallen rocks. Alanak himself had been the one to identify the Frost family, and target their daughter Brittany as the ideal host for the most powerful of their ancient leaders. He had barely escaped when the Ghosts interrupted the ceremony to restore Kajinast and stole the thorn and the intended host.
And that was the moment that things began to go horribly wrong for Alanak. It took far too long to recover the thorn from MAGI. And even longer to find a ceremony that would allow Kajinast to speak to them. And then... to find that the brilliant leader he remembered was now insane. It was a crushing blow, and Alanaks only hope was that if they could restore the thorn, it would somehow restore Kajinasts mind as well.
A faint scratching at his doorframe interrupted Alanaks musings. He looked up to see a nervous thorn wielder standing in the doorway. What is it? he demanded when the man didnt speak.
My lord... the man coughed. My lord... the thorn fragment...
Alanak felt his spine grow cold. He stood, staring at the unfortunate thorn wielder, willing him not to say it. What has happened?
My lord...it has been taken...
Taken.... Alanak hissed the word. By whom?
We dont know. All the guards are dead. Kajinast demands your presence.
Alanak felt rage consume him. He moved around the desk with the slow, slinking grace of a viper. Alanak, watching the color drain out of the thorn wielders face, drew his falchion and sliced open the messengers belly. He kicked the writhing body into the hall and calmly returned to his desk. He moved a small black stone, symbolizing the unknown person who had attacked the library, to the next level down where Kajinasts thorn lay. He gazed at the larger red stone symbolizing the team of Ghosts, and then to the small blue stone that would represent Ici Cold if he knew where to place her.
He ignored the whimpers of the dying man in the hall as he tried to find a way to salvage this day.
The Broken Thorn
Part 12
Sooner and her team followed Ahrens path through the chaotic halls of Oranbega. Something had the mages running around like angry bees swarming around their fallen hive. More than once, a patrol would go by and ignore the small team of heroes in their midst completely.
She could see Ahrens frustration and dissatisfaction clearly on his scarred face each time they let the mages pass them by, but she didnt want to take the time to fight every patrol. The longer Ici was helpless and held by the Circle, the more Sooner worried about what would happen to her friend.
Ahren led them to one of the glowing portals. Sooner always hated to go through them because she worried that one day they would just change the enchantment to send them straight to a prison cell. Or a lava pit. Or a room with no exit. Nonetheless, she had to go through this one to get where they needed to go, so she stepped through.
As soon as she set foot on the other side, she could hear a voice ranting. She froze, listening to it. Deep, undeniably masculine, and yet... Thats the voice that was coming from Ici, she said.
Witch listened for a moment. It is ancient Oranbegan. Perhaps that is why it sounds familiar to you? I know she was speaking it while she was unconscious.
No, Ruby said, stepping forward. Its the same. Its not coming from Ici, but its the same voice. I sat with her for quite a while that day.
Sooner listened to the angry cries for another heartbeat or two. Its insanity was obvious. If that was after Ici they had to make sure they got her away from it.
Her team continued along the dimly lit hallway, and then Ahren gestured for them to stop as he peered around the corner. Theyve reinforced. He looked back at the team. Well have to be tight.
Sooner crept up to stand with him and glanced around as well. Not just mages, and not just demons, but the spirits of long dead mages prowled around. At the end of the narrow hall they guarded she could see a small room. It was from that room that the angry voice bellowed.
She looked back at her team. Wulf, standing ready like a stone statue; Ruby, her hands already glowing with green energies; Midnightangel standing ahead of the small group, electrical energy crackling around her; and Witch-Frost, her white hair and white costume almost glowing against the dusty browns and greys of Oranbega, stood with wisps of frosty air rising from her body. She looked back at Ahren, and he lifted his rifle with a nod.
As Ahren took aim, Sooner led her team around the corner to crash into the mob of Circle mages. It was pure chaos. Fire and ice pounded down on the combatants, Rubys green, red and blue powers glowed in pure contrast to the shadowy attacks of the spirits. Wulf laid about with his axe, while the steady percussive blasts from Ahrens rifle underlaid the whole battle.
Witch dropped abruptly under a behemoths claws, but Ruby wasted no time pouring her own energy into Witch and helping her back to her feet. Sooner had never yet learned to just let her team do their jobs and to concentrate on her own, a part of her was always worried whenever she lead a team. But with Witch back up and blasting furiously at the mages, the Ghosts were winning the battle step by step.
She was trying to finish off one last spirit, but it had surrounded her with shadows so thickly she could barely see. She struck out again and again, but no luck. Then she felt Rubys soothing magical energies fill her mind and the shadows fell away. She struck the spirit once, and then again, and it faded away into whatever darkness those spirits called home.
Sooner turned, and saw only one behemoth left. It was encased in a block of ice, and Sooner smiled a small smile at the sight of Ruby finishing off the giant demon.
The ranting voice fell silent as the small team of Ghosts turned toward the doorway. Sooner led her team inside the room where they stood silently staring at a dark piece of carved wood. The flickering torches cast shadows under the thorn, giving the illusion of movement. Sooner felt the magical energy flowing through the room. It was an evil feeling that set her teeth to grinding. She glanced at her teammates and saw that every one of them - except Ahren - had a similar expression of mild discomfort and distaste. And realized for the first time that almost her entire team had a magical basis for their powers. It was fitting, she thought with a tiny smile, that they would use magic to stop the plans of the evil mages.
What now? asked Wulf.
We have to find a way to destroy it, Sooner answered. Well take it to the ba- Sooner paused as Wulf drew his axe. No, no! she cried out, but, with a bellowing warcry, he struck the thorn with a massive overhand blow.
Deep laughter rose through the small chamber as Wulfs giant axe bounced off the thorn and rebounded nearly into its wielders face. Wulf staggered back a step or two as the Ghosts looked around the chamber for the source of the voice.
Fools! The voice spoke, come to save little Ici, have you? Its far, far too late for that Sooner Spirit! Sooner frowned as the voice called her by name. Yes, I know you. I know you all. Idealistic fools, each of you! Sooner Spirit calls on the darkness to fight evil, Midnightangel, with her lighting blasts, Wulf, who can become one with the earth, Witch-Frost, no doubt returned to save her sister in ice-magic, Ruby Sapphire, sweet little Ruby with the healing energies, and the tragic Ahren, always mourning for what he lost, always seeking revenge, but never getting close to the ones who actually hurt him.
You idealistic simpletons think you can stop me? You havent yet seen power like mine! The entire world will bow and tremble before the Circle when I am restored! I will make you all-
Sooner abruptly yanked off her hood and cape. Oh, for the love of... she muttered, and swaddled the broken thorn in the length of crimson and cream fabric. Tucking the bundle under one arm, she looked at her team. Lets go. We still have to find Ici.
STOP! The voice bellowed. You will pay for this! I will make you and all your friends suffer like they have never imag- As Sooner crossed the threshold of the room, the voice fell silent.
Ah... Thats a relief, Witch-Frost said. I can imagine quite a bit.
---
Ici was transfixed. It was like when you see something horrible, a car wreck, a natural disaster, a scene of violence, and you cant look away, even though you desperately do not want those images in your mind. Evil was too mild a word for this book. The ruined lives, the suffering, the sheer inhumanity of the magic practiced by the Circle was too horrid to be believed, but there it was, written out step by step like some sinister cake recipe.
Ici was startled out of her reading by Bounty-Killers return. Are you looking at the pretty pictures? he asked. She stared up at his dark almond eyes for a moment, struggling to put the thoughts of horrible bloody death and tortures out of her mind. An unreadable expression flickered across his face before he gestured at the book. Put that away. Lets go.
She scrambled up, jamming the book into the bag and twisting it around behind her again, No, wait. I understand now. Its not just that he hates me. Im magic. Me. He wanted me before any of this ever happened because I have magic in me. She paused, stunned. They didnt grab me just because I was there. They came after me. She looked up in Bounty-Killers face, and once again caught a flicker of expression across his cold face. And she realized just who she was talking to. She shut her mouth with a click.
Did you have any more chatter you wanted to share with the Circle? Or can we go? he asked.
She tossed her head and lifted her chin, but made no response as she strode out of her hiding place. With a strangled sound that might have been laughter, Bounty-Killer moved ahead of her and led the way along the path hed scouted out.
They cut through dusty tunnels and empty rooms. They paused occasionally to let the numerous patrols pass and then started forward again. Ici was quickly lost in the maze of twisting tunnels and portals, but Bounty-Killer seemed confident as he led them onward.
---
Alanak looked up once again when he heard a startled curse from the hallway outside. A thorn caster stood staring at the dead messenger in the hall with a terrified expression. What is it? Alanak demanded, allowing his irritation to color his tone.
I- I- My lord, I have n-n-news. The thorn caster stood in the doorway, obviously reluctant to set foot in the same room with his leader.
Alanak steepled his hands on the desk and leaned forward. He spoke calmly, Have you found Ici Cold?
N-n-no, my lord.
Have you found the person who attacked the library?
No, my lord.
Have the Ghosts Reborn been defeated?
The thorn caster paled. He opened his mouth and closed it several times, before managing to croak out, No...
Then why are you interrupting me?
The thorn... the th-th-thorn...
Alanak stood, feeling his guts turn over. What has happened?
The Ghosts Reborn have taken the thorn.
For a moment, Alanak thought all the blood had rushed to his head. He felt himself flush, and for a moment he actually did see red. The thorn caster took one look at his enraged face and fled. Deprived of killing that messenger, he contented himself with kicking the corpse of the previous messenger. He roared with anger, and kicked the body again and again. When the hem of his robe was stained wet with blood, he shook off his anger, and turned back to the room.
Alanak returned to his desk and moved the large red stone to the lower level. He studied the map intently, then, with a curse in Oranbegan, he pounded a fist on the desk. The carefully organized markers spilled out over the map with a clatter. His eyes widened as he prepared for another angry outburst, and then something about the pattern of the markers caught his eye. His gaze flicked over the map, and he began moving his forces into various hallways and passages.
Yes... he laughed, as he moved the red stone, the black pebble and the blue pebble into a single large room. Yes, yes! He placed a carved orange pyramid, to represent himself, near the north end of the room. Like fish in a trap, I will catch all of you!
He rose from his desk, and began to issue orders.
The Broken Thorn
Part 13
Atarax, blazing even more brightly than usual, pushed his way into Oranbega with his team on his heels. He hadnt wasted time asking if Sooner Spirit wanted backup, since he would have gone in no matter her answer. Her younger sister, registered as Sooner Magic, but known to the entire population of Ghosts as Little Sooner, broke around him and started forward as Celestial Nav, Princess Ginsu, and Broken Shadow entered as well.
Why dont you let me take point? he scolded gently. He knew Sooner Magic was just anxious and excited, but it was his plan to take them into Oranbega, and therefor his responsibility to see them back out safely.
She flicked an apologetic glance at him with bright green eyes, and fell in behind. And if she crowded him just a bit, he decided not to tease her about it.
Radio silence, everyone, unless you just want us to get ordered back out of here.
His team nodded, and he led the way deeper into Oranbega.
---
Getting out was proving to be harder than getting in. Sooner and her team were battling every step of the way, and there had still been no sign of Ici. The mages were throwing themselves at the team of Ghosts, and were falling almost as fast as they arrived. But, still it was exhausting. And the damn thorn held under her arm was slowing her down horribly.
When she had a brief break in the fighting, she activated her radio. Ahren? What you have found?
No sign of Ici, but I do have clear path ahead, Ahren answered. I've found a large, open room. We should be able to regroup and rest there, it will be hard for anyone to approach us without being seen
Ok, then. Come back to us, and well meet you on the way.
Another group of mages rounded a corner ahead, and Sooners team launched back into the fight.
---
Bounty-Killer led Ici through a magical portal and gestured for her to stay in the shadow of the stone circle while he checked ahead. She crouched, looking, if anything, more exhausted. He wondered again if she had it in her to get out of Oranbega, but then remembered the way she lifted her chin when she was angry, and felt a little smile. He suspected that if stubbornness and sheer determination would be enough to get out, that she would manage it. Sadly for her, he was afraid it would take considerably more than that. The mages were moving their forces, reinforcing, and he suspected they were setting up a trap.
He could take the book and leave her here. He would make it out, he just needed to avoid fights. But there was no possibility that the young and weakened hero would get out on her own. Powerless and exhausted... It would be like leaving a baby chick to escape from a pack of coyotes. And, they had a deal. That made getting him, her, the book, and her thorn tip out of Oranbega his job.
He crept to the next intersection of corridors, looked around carefully, then made his way back to Ici. She was crouching, motionless, with her eyes closed. At least she wasnt reading the maledetto book again. He didnt think she even realized she had been reading ancient Oranbegan. And the implications of that were a bit too unsettling to allow to distract his mind at that time.
He laid a hand gently on her shoulder, and gestured with a nod of his head that they were to continue onward. She wearily stood, and he noted that her color was even more pale. She nodded at him, and they continued on their way.
---
Sooner and her team emerged into the room Ahren had scouted for them. It was a high-ceilinged room with the roar of falling water covering other sounds. Water tumbled from a pair of intricately carved faces into pools below. The room was lined with braziers, and the odor was a heavy wet incense laden miasma. Around the edges, there were a few piles of fallen rocks, but it seemed sturdy.
As Ahren had promised the room was open and it would, indeed, be difficult for anyone to approach without being seen. Since her team was seriously fatigued from the nearly constant fighting, but in good shape otherwise, it would be a good place to rest. She nodded thoughtfully, and turned back to Ahren.
Find Ici, Ahren. Were not leaving without her. He just nodded once and turned away, vanishing quickly from sight.
Sooner had considered using her own abilities to hide to scout as well, but was reluctant to split her team up further. She had a sick feeling in her gut, an anxiety that played over her nerves and made it impossible to rest. She paced around the space near the waterfall, watching, waiting, anxious.
Her team, experienced heroes one and all, took the opportunity to rest and relax, but all of them knew they were still in danger. Wulf remained in his rocky form, even as he flopped to the floor. Midnightangel was strolling around the area studying the carvings, and Ruby and Witch were both leaning back against the wall, but even they were alert and watching. Dont wander off, now, Midnight, Sooner scolder, and MidnightAngel laughed.
The east passage is blocked, Ahren suddenly announced over the radio. They've barricaded it with mages and demons. I cant slip past them, and I hope to hell we dont have to fight our way past them.
Damn, Sooner muttered, as her anxiety ratcheted up another notch. Check to the north?
Already on my way.
---
Ici followed Bounty-Killer along his chosen path. She tried to hide it from him, but she nearly spent. Just staying up and following him was an effort. She looked down at her dirty sneakers, then back up at his back, then down again. She concentrated on not shuffling her feet as she walked.
With each step, the book moved, making her constantly aware of its presence. She couldnt shake off the hateful images. It was too easy to imagine the Circles victims - their fear, their pain - especially as she might yet become one of them.
Bounty, she whispered.
What is it? he answered without turning.
The guy who hired you... to get the book... who is it?
He stopped, turned to look at her, and frowned. My employers identity is between me and my employer, and it doesnt concern you at all. he answered coldly.
It does concern me! she answered. It concerns me a lot. This book is really, really bad.
Now is not the time, he insisted, and turned away.
Bounty! She reached out and touched his shoulder, and flinched back when he whirled with the speed of a striking snake. They stared at each other for the space of several heartbeats, his face was angry, but there was something else in his dark eyes. What is he going to do with it?
He let out a hissing breath and shook his head. He will use the information in that book against the Circle. He met her eyes again. Caspisc? She frowned at the unfamiliar word, and he sighed again, Do you understand?
She nodded. Yes. Hell fight the Circle. Ok.
He turned away, and if he muttered a curse under his breath, she chose to ignore it. He resumed his careful path along the ancient hallway, and she took her place two steps back, reminding herself not to shuffle her feet.
---
The gnawing tumbling knot in Sooners stomach could not longer properly be called nerves, or anxiety. It was a level of tension that was approaching painful. She paced around, grinding her teeth. She fidgeted with the folds of her belt, trying to get them to lie evenly. She fidgeted with her hair, no longer confined in her hood, trying to find a way to keep its long strawberry blonde strands out of her face, and a distracted voice in her head commented that perhaps she should cut it short like her sister Caryns. Her hands kept returning to the evil shape of the thorn wrapped in the folds of her cape and then flinching away.
Her hands clenched convulsively on the thorn when her radio crackled to life. Sooner, Im in the north hall, Ahren said. It looks like they've boxed us into a nice trap. Which will make it easier to find them and kill them.
Sooner cursed and glanced around the room again. And frowned. Why havent they attacked? Were all in this room. Why havent they attacked us?
No idea, Ahren answered.
Check to the west, but be ready to run back here.
On my way.
Sooner turned to tell her team to get ready, but they were already on their feet. She smiled. Its about to get rough, gang. No idea why they havent attacked us already, but I would expect- She broke off as she caught movement out of the corner of her eye and turned. She saw a flash of a familiar blue, and Ici Cold stumbled into view.
At that same moment, Ahrens voice came over the radio again, Three for three, he announced. Theyve got us right where we want the- ...[censored]!... Theyre on the move!
Get back to us, Ahren! She turned back, and saw Ici stopped and staring in stunned surprise at the team of Ghosts, Come on, Ici.. Theyre coming for us right now!
---
Ici thought she must be hallucinating when she saw Sooner Spirit and Midnightangel and Ruby.. And.. was that Witch? And Wulf? But then she realized that Bounty-Killer was staring at them as well. She was filled with a fierce joy and rush of relief so overwhelming she nearly dropped to her knees. She was going to get out. She was going to be safe. And they would find a way to get her powers back.
That was when Sooner called out her warning. Bounty-Killer moved suddenly, pushing Ici back into the wall and muttering something that sounded like, Vangu! The room was suddenly swarming with Circle. There were mages in a rainbow of robes, behemoths, ghosts, and even a few demons she didnt think shed ever seen before: something that looked like it was covered with ice, another that looked like a potato with legs and a giant mouth, and a red-skinned woman wearing very little clothing.
A voice from overhead bellowed, Do not harm the girl! Take the rest, but do NOT harm the girl!
And then, everywhere around her, battle was joined.
The Broken Thorn
Part 14
Ici crouched against the wall, filled with frustration. Her friends were battling for their lives - and for her life - and she could only watch. Worse, the number of enemies was overwhelming, and she couldnt see any way for her friends to win.
And she couldnt take her eyes of Bounty-Killer as he fought. He was like a dancer as he leapt and whirled, his katana flashing in the warm firelight. He was an artist and a cold, emotionless machine all rolled into one. She had seen some of the most skilled combatants in existence, and had to concede that he was one of them. He fought with an animalistic grace and a chilling efficiency, but she could see that even with all his skill, he could not win against these odds. He was being driven back, step by hard-fought step.
She scurried to the side just as he was slammed back into the stone wall. She scrambled to find a rock and flung it at the demons head. It showed her its teeth in an ugly grin, but made no move to attack her.
Dont be stupid, Bounty-Killer hissed at her, and fought his way clear of the wall once more.
Ya! Youre welcome! she shouted back at him.
---
Atarax was momentarily stunned by the mass of Circle fighting their way into the room ahead - into the room where his friends were trapped. There was no way five heroes, no matter how powerful, could defeat that many enemies. Of course, there was no way ten could either, but he didnt take the time to consider that.
He keyed his radio to the supergroup channel, Sooner!
There was a long silence, then, Not a good time, Ata!
Atarax grimaced at the sounds of combat carrying under her voice. The cavalry is here, Sooner. Were coming in from the north.
Youre here?
Were here, he answered.
You brought Caryn in here?
Sooner Magic broke in, Dammit, Cyd! I got my security level 50 card! You think you could cut the protective big sister ac-
Ladies! Ahren cut through. This is not the time.
Sooner spoke again, Welcome to the party, Ata!
---
Ici felt tears stinging her eyes as she watched Bounty-Killer slowly lose his fight. He was less like a dancer, now, and more like a punch-drunk boxer determined to make it just one more round. An enormous behemoth raked its claws across his face, and Ici let out a little scream as he dropped to one knee. She could see the blood pouring down his cheek. With a mocking grin, the demon stepped back, waiting. Bounty-Killer dragged himself to his feet, wiped the blood away on his shoulder and resumed his ready stance, with a slow nod for the demon. The demon let out a deep, booming laugh, and then struck. It was a vicious back-hand blow, and the demon had put the weight of its entire over-sized body into it.
Ici screamed. Bounty-Killers head whipped around, and his shoulders and upper body followed. The force of the blow lifted him from his feet and flung him into the wall. He smashed into it head first, and Ici screamed again when his limp fingers fell open and his sword clattered to the floor. He slid down the wall, landed on the edge of a pool of running water, and tumbled in, his body disappearing from sight. The demon met Icis eyes and grinned, showing a mouth full of pointed teeth. He laughed that deep, mocking laugh again, and turned to lumber off toward the Ghosts.
Ici wasted no time jumping into the pool and finding Bounty-Killer. She dragged him to the surface, but struggled with his weight briefly before managing to get him fully out of the pool. She leaned close, listening and watching, until she heard him breath. She checked his pulse, it was slow, but strong and steady.
The young woman - powerless and exhausted - stood and looked around the chaotic battle. She dragged Bounty-Killers limp body to a nearby pillar and carefully arranged him behind it. With her bare legs flashing under the torn and stained pleated skirt, she ran and picked up his katana. She tried holding it as she had seen him do, but it felt unnatural, and she quickly decided she was more likely to hurt herself than any mages she might encounter. Battling back hopeless tears, she carefully placed the blade in his hand.
Ici pushed herself back to her feet and started to run towards her fellow Ghosts, but then skidded to a stop before turning to run back and crouched by his body. She reached inside his shirt and removed the damp bundle of brightly colored silk wrapped around the thorn tip. She unfolded it just enough to see the dark cone and then wrapped it tightly again and tucked it inside her own shirt. She rose to her feet and untied the knot in the webbing strap around her waist. She set the book carefully at his side. With a concerned frown, she brushed his black hair out of his eyes and sighed. We almost made it out... she whispered to him. She looked down at him for a moment longer, touched his wounded cheek, then stood painfully and jogged to finally rejoin her friends.
Hey, Ici! Midnightangel greeted her as if she were joining them for morning coffee.
Stay back, hun, Sooner cautioned.
Ici rolled her eyes, but obediently stepped back away from the fighting. She tripped as she took another step and looked down to see her sneaker tangled in Sooners cape. When she kicked her foot free, she saw the dark carved wood of the rest of the thorn. Her heart skipped a beat, but then she bent down and scooped it up as well, kicking Sooners cape aside so no one else would trip on it.
We have them! Remember, dont allow the girl to be harmed! a voice bellowed. Ici found him with her gaze, an old man in brown and orange robes. Her eyes narrowed as she remembered him pushing the thorn into her just before Atarax knocked it away from her. Her hand tightened on the thorn and she crept to the side, never taking her eyes from him. She remembered his name, Alanak. She hated him.
As if he felt the intensity of her gaze, his head turned and he saw her. He smiled, a smile that said he knew hed won. Finish them! He strode toward Ici, and she backed away frantically, right into the stone wall. He grabbed her by the arm and dragged her back into the room.
Let go of me, you old [censored]! she demanded, twisting and squirming, but his grip was powerful and there was no shaking loose.
He dragged her into the middle of the vast open space. From here she could see her friends fighting desperately. She could see Atarax as well, fighting to get into the room with his team. Hot, angry tears washed down her face as she saw her friends slowly being overwhelmed by the hordes of Circle.
I have her! He shouted. I have Ici Cold! We will have Kajinast restored! He released her arm and turned to face the room, his arms lifted overhead. We have won!
Ici felt a growl start low in her throat. Her hands tightened on the thickest part of the evil thorn. You dont have JACK! she screamed at him. He whirled towards her as she lifted the broken thorn high over head and plunged it into Alanaks heart.
An expression of purest terror came over Alanaks face as the thorn rushed towards him, and then the world turned white. It was like being inside a raging lightning bolt - if lightning were made of pure magic. Ici felt the thorn split wide open, and fresh, hot, red blood poured out onto the floor. She heard three screams, Alanaks, her own, and the voice she knew as Walter. Alanak was writhing, clutching at his head as the force of the magic enveloped them.
Ici felt it shoot through her, and the spot over her heart where the thorn tip lay grew warm, and then hot. The magic lifted Alanak and Ici into the air where they both writhed like fish caught on a line as the power flowed through and around them.
She felt the thorn turn to ash in her hands and fall away, and the small, hard lump wrapped in silk inside her shirt vanished as well. Alanak seemed to collapse on himself, still screaming as if already feeling the fires of hell. Ici saw not one, but two souls being ripped out of Alanak by the magic and torn to shreds. And then Alanak crumpled away to nothing and it was just Ici riding the magic high over head.
---
Ahren shifted position, finding higher ground for better view. He loaded, aimed, fired till empty, and reloaded again. He lost himself in the mechanics of the actions, and wasted no time or energy worrying about things he couldnt effect.
He heard Alanaks triumphant bellow, and felt a tiny smile crease his face at Icis defiant response. Just like the kid, she never did know when she was beat. He shifted his target toward Alanak, and so was looking right at the mage when Ici impaled him with the thorn. Ahren was momentarily blinded by the flash, but when his vision returned, he was absolutely stunned by what he saw.
The room was dominated by a ball of pure energy high overhead, glowing like a miniature sun. He could just make out Ici and Alanak within it. As he watched, beams of pure white light jabbed out into the room, spearing everyone in it, one by one. The ghosts and the demons vanished when it touched them, but the mages and human followers of the Circle were lifted into the air by it.
And then a blaze of pure white energy shot right by his face. He flinched back as it struck Sooner Spirit just below her heart. She cried out and her body arched backwards as she was lifted into the air. Witch-Frost was next and then Wulf. Ruby screamed as she was lifted up, and Midnightangel made one futile attempt to attack the glowing ball before she was carried into the air as well.
And then there were no more attacks. Ahren stood alone, underneath the helpless bodies of his team. He wasted no time wondering why he was spared. His face became serene, peaceful, as he reloaded his rifle. "If this is how we go out my friends, he announced, we're not going alone!" Lifting his rifle, he began tearing into every mage he saw.
---
Atarax had just made it into the room when the blinding white light erupted. He shielded his eyes as the fighting all over the room paused for a moment. He watched, trying to make sense of it as mage after mage was speared and lifted into the air by tendrils of light.
What the hell is goin on up here, Ata? Sooner Magic asked. She stepped into the room, and lifted a hand as well. And then a brilliant bolt of white light plunged into her. She let out an inarticulate cry and her hands scrabbled at her chest where the energy entered her, and then she was lifted high overhead as well.
Back, back! Everyone back! Ata insisted, but no more spears of light attacked.
And then Ahrens rifle started firing.
---
Ici was completely lost in the power. It was overwhelming. She had no sense of where she ended and the magic began. She was the magic. She flexed her fingers, and heard/felt voices cry out in protest. A few of the voices were familiar, and she followed them until she found Sooner Spirit, Ruby, Wulf, MidnightAngel, Witch-Frost and Sooner Magic. She was hurting them, but she didnt know how to stop. And where were Ahren, and Atarax? And... ah... Ahren didnt use magic. Neither did Ata... ah.. Just the ones who used magic, which meant... The others in her grasp were Circle.
Ici found her way back to herself, and smiled. With tremendous care, she fed a trickle of her power into Sooner, then withdrew her magical presence. She felt the moment that they were no longer connected, and she could see that Sooner was freed from the magic that was Ici.
---
Ahren was picking off target after target. It had been just a few moments since his entire team was incapacitated, but he had not wasted those moments. He noted, but was not distracted by, the light show overhead until suddenly Sooner let out a startled cry and fell from where shed been suspended above.
She scrambled to her feet, and then Ahren was distracted by how... energized she seemed. She didnt look at all like a woman who had just spent the better part of day fighting her way through an ancient ruin.
What the hell is going on? he asked her.
She smiled, hugely. Not many things can put a smile like that on a womans face, and there was no chocolate anywhere to be seen. I have no idea, but-
Before she could finish the thought, Ruby gasped, and fell to land by Sooner.
Oh, gosh... she said, glowing and smiling.
---
One by one, Ici released her friends. When Wulf dropped away from her grip, there were only circle left. So many of the evil, hateful mages, held tightly in her magical grip. She flexed again, and felt them cry out. For just a moment, she wished she had the stomach to truly take advantage and make them pay. But it wasnt in her, and instead she began slowly draining away their magic. Making it all her own.
---
Sooner, riding a sense of magical euphoria like nothing shed ever felt before, helped Wulf to his feet. Once there, he let out a tremendous howl, and actually burst into his rock form. She laughed to see it was at least twice as tall as normal.
She turned back, staring up at the ball of magic as every one of the impaled Circle suddenly cried out. The light coalesced and shrank, and for a moment, Sooner could Ici suspended within, but then the light began to get brighter and the ball expanded larger and larger.
We need to move, Sooner decided suddenly. She urged her team toward the north hall, where Ata was waiting. Youre ok, Caryn? she asked her sister.
Sooner Magic rolled her eyes, but smiled and answered, Never been better!
All eyes turned back to Ici as the ball of light began to strobe and pulse.
---
Ici was riding the magic. It was hers. It was amazing. The power, the energy... each one of the impaled mages multiplied the power. It was more power than shed ever held before. Her own magic was back, multiplied a hundred fold - the wild power had ripped it open, and she knew shed never lose it again. It was a ride too wild and exhilarating to be believed. The power grew, and grew, and suddenly, it was too much. She felt it slipping away from her control. It wasnt hers anymore. She tried to reclaim it, but it tossed her away.
---
Whats happening to her? Celestial Nav asked.
Sooner shook her head. She could feel the magic pulsing in the room. It was an uncomfortable sensation. And then they heard Ici scream a high-pitched terrified wail.
---
She was losing the battle. And when she lost, the magic would run wild, killing everything. She struggled and fought to hold on to it, but the harder she held it, the more it slipped away. It wasnt hers any longer and it fought defiantly to be free. There was no holding it, there was no controlling it.
The moment she made her decision, she flung her arms and legs wide, and released the magic. She pushed it away, down each of those tendrils of magic linking her to Circle mages. She pushed it into them violently, fast, faster than they could hope to absorb. And one by one, she felt these evil, ancient men die at last.
---
Atarax had pushed through the heroes, trying to find a way to get to Ici. She hung overhead, blazing with energy too bright to see. All of the heroes who had been grabbed by the magic still wore slightly dazed expressions, but everyone was looking up when Ici released the magic like an explosion. The room suddenly erupted into elemental chaos as ice, fire, and lightning flew madly about, and the floor and ceiling became jagged with stalactites and stalagmites. The mages stiffened and began to glow, then, one by one, they popped, like fireworks on a string. They disintegrated completely, one by one, in a matter of seconds.
And then the brilliant light vanished and the massive army of Circle of Thorns with it. Ata looked up, and there was Ici, hovering overhead. She looked down, and began to laugh. She let out a whoop of pure joy, and shot straight up towards the ceiling, laughing as she flew in a broad circle around the room. She paused long enough to release a brief storm of ice right over a roaring waterfall, and paused again a few moments later to form her sword of ice. She swooped straight towards her friends and landed with a happy skip before flinging herself at Atarax for a big hug.
---
Ici wore a huge smile as the Ghosts swarmed around her, hugging her, patting her shoulder. She laughed, but was still too happy, too energized to even begin to speak. She hugged everyone she could reach, so happy to see her friends.
Oh! Wait, wait! she said suddenly. I need to check... She turned, giggled a little as she lifted into flight again and zipped across the room to where shed left Bounty-Killer. There was no sign of him, and no sign of the book, either. She looked around, in case she had mistaken where shed left him, but he was gone.
Looking for something? Ahren said.
She jumped and turned, and looked into Ahrens scarred face. His unforgiving face, that had no mercy for villains of any description. No- no, I- thought I- but... She looked back at Ahren one more time, and then ran ahead to Ata. Lets get outa here!
---
Ici emerged from Oranbega into a last light of a beautiful warm sunset. The salty sea air wafted against her face as gulls fought over a bit of trash washed up on a beach. They were on one of the islands north of Talos, and she thought it was the most beautiful thing shed every seen.
Cmon, Ici, Celestial Nav said. Lets get you back to the base and make sure everythings ok.
Give me a minute... Im just.. Glad to be outside, Ici said with a happy smile.
Nav patted her shoulder. Ill go ahead and get ready, then.
Nav and a handful of Ghosts left the beach headed for the base.
Those that stayed - Sooner, Ata, Ahren, and Ruby - gave her some needed room to enjoy the crisp night air, the freedom, the wonderful sense that it was over. She glanced over her shoulder once to make sure no one was watching her, then pulled the flowered scarf from inside her shirt. The powdery ash from the disintegrated thorn tip floated away in the breeze. She shook it gently and ran her finger over the smooth silk and lovely Asian design.
Id like you to hold on to that for me, Bounty-Killer said suddenly.
She jumped and whirled towards him, and saw his dark shape within the shadows of a tall rock formation nearby. She glanced back to the waiting Ghosts, and sure enough, Ahren had turned to look at her. She smiled and waved, and he slowly turned away again.
She took a step closer. Youre ok! she whispered.
He smiled, and rubbed one hand over his cheek where the claw marks still stood out. He reached with one hand and took the scarf, trailing it over her palm. He held it open and studied it carefully, then spoke again, This belonged to my mother. He folded it neatly into fourths and then tucked it back inside her shirt so it rested right over her heart.
He leaned closer, as if to say something quietly, and then pressed his lips against hers. He held her eyes as he leaned in for the space of three heartbeats before straightened up with a faint smile, then turned away, and vanished into the shadows.
Ici stared, stunned, at the place where hed disappeared. She lifted one hand to touch her lips, where she could still feel his warmth, and the other to the neckline of her shirt, where one corner of the scarf peeked out. And began to smile, a big, wide, dreamy smile. With a whoop of sheer joy, Ici lifted herself into the air and got ready to fly home.
The End!
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Spoiler warning
This story is based heavily on information learned from a story arc about how the Circle of Thorns actually gains members. If you have not done this arc and do not want to spoil your enjoyment of the specific game arcs, please skip this story.
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This was my second attempt at fan fiction, and the only story that doesn't have a large involvment of The Shades of Vengeance. They'll be back in other stories, though.