54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡszNgNMLqioCHAPTER 14
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXAvb5IECg8
"Fire Beneath The Mountain"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX24bGkVo05
The wind howls aggressively across the jagged mountain peaks as Cat stands motionless on the cliff's edge, black eyes locked on the fortress below.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbLwwk41zlU
Behind him, a murder of crows darkens the afternoon sky, countless of black birds, overwatching the bandits and their preparations.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTnxL9uM6BY
The mountain groans hauntingly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡeg8fr5q4xt
Five hundred bandits, each one armed, ready and burning for vengeance.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ80oVwFP6ew
Below the ridge, twenty-five steel-wheeled wagons creak into formation, each pulled by two horses.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf2ChI6vS1b
Generals ride at the helm of those wagons, cloaks snapping in the wind, eyes glowing bright blue. Crossbows slung, swords sheathed, and daggers gleaming.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPGWWPwIWwW
Inside each wagon, sit reaper bandits crouched with large iron sickles, ready to reap, package and sling the magic over the wall with the banded contraptions.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKFiBYih1Fv
The heavy harvest machine rolls forward. A large, rolling contraption, made of wood and metal. There are huge iron blades at the bottom of the sphere cart, similar to an industrial fan.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPJuHXC0Rrc
Close to it, rolling down the mountain dirt path… another monstrous wagon is rigged with iron cords, holding a massive oak log.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNXEgeW3ZXw
It's being pulled by Big bandits, ropes around one shoulder, clubs resting on the other like toothpicks.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzzDzras6T9
The five assassins, the only others riding on horseback, move like shadows. Their red eyes pulse beneath tight black hoods. Each ninja carries fire tipped arrows, throwing daggers, and blades of their choosing. They're silent, deadly and lethal.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4994OV5rV9
Bandits line the slopes with ropes and hooks, some fitted to crossbows, others swing over shoulder.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjJtQHQdNIg
Explosive rockets in different shapes and colors.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcpil0OPyuC
Clubs, daggers, bats, knives, sling shots — everything hard, held, sharp, blunt, meant to break, stab, butcher, maim, kill and destroy.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTMNjudOfzX
Cat looks on from the highest peak. His base, a small lit cave entrance behind his two captains. One assassin with red ruby eyes stands behind him on the side, another general, eyes glowing blue, is on the opposite post. Cat's eyes are pitch black, watching his army rumble down the mountain trail.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9ecfGYrBvE
He and his captains smell a thick, intoxicating scent flowing from the fortress below. The wind carries the glow leaf aroma through the whole mountain space, exciting the rebel gang.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgBupldxm8M
— GLOWING HAYFIELDS — TRAIL PATH TO FORTRESS —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡX3cdj1mHPy
Two royal red carriages ride steadily along the dirt road, each pulled by a pair of tall disciplined horses. The wheels glinting in the fall light, red paint catching the gold of the morning sun.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAiHz1xT2p2
Behind them comes a long line of supply wagons — ten total — stacked with rations, tools, and bundled gear for the journey ahead.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2ZCaz1XXbW
The Knights ride in formation around the convoy, a moving wall of steel and discipline. Their armor is polished to a mirror shine, catching flashes of orange and yellow from the autumn canopy overhead.
Their horses are massive, war bread beasts with braided tails and long back manes. Heavy saddles, each knight carrying a spear or lance strapped to the side and a longsword at the hip.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLKFaPym7VR
They look like a tide of iron, steady and immovable.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCC9JKF4Sg0
Behind them marches the infantry — leaner, rougher, but no less disciplined. Some carry bows slung across their backs, quivers bouncing against their armor. Others hold swords and shields, boots thudding in rhythm with horses ahead.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡofecIBREFG
Their cloaks flutter in the cool wind, the red colors of the convoy bleeding in with the fallen leaves.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbL3PzIhpqi
At the very back of the procession rides Paul with Stone, the white horse's hooves kicking up soft dust. Lilly sits behind him, arms wrapped around his waist. Her cheek rests lightly against his back.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡd12CpWXN0l
Paul keeps his eyes forward, jaw tight.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqHyuMeGfHJ
Something in the air doesn't feel right — a pressure, a weight — but he keeps his feelings buried. Not wanting to worry Lilly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡet2j9Fac3P
Not yet.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrXeBXho0rH
Sally and Curtis follow close behind, their riders guiding them with quiet confidence as the convoy pushes through radiant fields spraying gold rays of light.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDbrtx0bfeR
The second to last carriage is impossible to miss — black lacquer with a red trim, the royal crest is carved deep into its doors.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBrwBN2ns3X
Inside, Traeven lounges comfortably, hands on his knees looking forward. Veronica sits beside him, her posture perfect, her eyes drifting between the window and Traeven's animated gestures.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHtpEd5FvJ9
Across from them, Phillip and Jeffrey listen, entertained by Traeven's stories, still spinning.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡenvO3znEJ0
You can still see the bright orange-yellow leaves drifting down, glowing, from inside the carriages.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8QANn26pzX
Jeffrey's armor clinks as he shifts on a cushioned seat, the big man grinning wide when Traeven leans forward with that easy, knowing smile.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHI0ZbFjAS7
Traeven: — (voice smooth)
"Jeffrey, you're a big boy…
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRECfb7R8IS
"I'd think a strong man like yourself would wield a sword."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ6vc6J09F9y
Jeff puffs his chest a little.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVE7wY45qYD
Jeffrey:
"I can shoot, that's what counts."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI7nYkpv712
Traeven (murmurs)
"Indeed."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡs42rTCS4bK
Traven nods, like he's receiving ancient wisdom.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0FZQg4fyop
He turns his attention to Phillip with the same effortless warmth.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNOM5mQCPab
Traeven:
"Phillip, you must feel secure, just as I do."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDnZLabJVeF
He nods deeply, like they are brothers in arms.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdbgcyp6Fks
"with all this artillery wrapped around us like a sausage dog."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpeD2PtgqVb
Phillip smirks.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaohuxjOtBo
Jeffrey burst a single laugh, trying to control it, but failing.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgiL2qKMLdu
Traeven lets the joke breath, then lowers his voice, just enough to shift the tone.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSlJ9WuOJOh
"Even so… three hundred men seem to be worth the cause."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfLuwkRsqnk
He barely forms a smile.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbJ9tR6buST
"After all, there are precious commodities to protect."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡooxIwNpdzv
His eyes drift towards Veronica — just slightly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡYH1QF6IRki
Veronica catches it.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrKVVZrMcfb
But doesn't react.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgjGatI87Nm
Traeven turns back to Phillip and Jeff instantly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcINHTFThD
"Although we are protected." Traeven begins,
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiqhBgSYtEr
Traeven (voice low, steady)
"and have the strength of many oxen, it doesn't mean that we can't be touched."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiSfKtDJJyy
Jeff and Phillip nod, slow and thoughtful, like he's revealing secrets to the universe.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYMlMRho8w
Traeven's eyes drift between them amused.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxV7aIGs6WM
"I've come to realize that strength isn't in the arm...
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCcon0HVRBN
...it's in the intention."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdqMgopq6W0
Jeff squints trying to process it, Phillip nods harder, pretending to understand.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDclQAW0TQt
"A person shows their true colors on the road. You can often reveal strengths, and discover weaknesses."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9yLyrpnORz
Veronica's eyes flick toward him.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0E7qDNuI6q
He doesn't look back, not yet.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ00tj40cxUK
"There's a level of understanding," he says, leaning back with effortless confidence.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOS1JEAAx9f
"When you surpass all others in your field of expertise.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0nJSxEJx83
(beat)
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqB5tPHbJvj
Like you three."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡh1pjGQA1EW
Jeff smiles proudly, Phillips' chest puffs up.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0awX7C737e
Traeven's smile sharpens a touch.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjnkeH4mLf0
"I," he says softly, "have come to understand people better than they understand themselves."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCqgO361oDr
He glances down at Phillips boot — the laces uneven, the knot sloppy and sideways.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9PbZAGgyAM
"You can sometimes read a man's entire life."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCqGmAzns9k
Traven (murmurs)
"by watching him tie his shoes."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm87kAXI084
Phillip looks down at the floor confused.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRrr81BqunB
Jeffrey tries not to smirk, but his eyes tell the truth.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡemCQedRTh3
Traeven doesn't break stride.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡguoGAC5GP7
He continues smiling, softly, confidently,
believing every word he speaks.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPD2H7PpPL2
His gaze drifts out the window, the orange and yellow leaves painting warm light across his face.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWUkqAmBjOB
He grins gently, almost nostalgically.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI8DqWGA3n1
Traeven:
"Once, I'd gotten myself into deep trouble with the nobles.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡzBQcSff865
(Beat)
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkGUVV0wl5D
I had to talk my way out of a hanging."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGJQdqVIVqW
Jeff's eyes widen. Phillip leans forward.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFImcaugANC
Traeven looks between them, lets the moment hang some more.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAKs9i7dEiT
"But" (exhales) (waving one hand lightly),
"I don't want to bore you with old tales."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr8czncOfbF
Veronica feels a shift.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOgEHBH766d
She turns towards him, her expression flat, almost bored, but her eyes sharp.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuxPhoxqELX
Veronica:
"So… You're telling us how smart you are, and dishing compliments out freely, why do you want to be here again?"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvsFeSuLSdh
Jeff and Phillip freeze, both looking between themselves like they've stumbled into a conversation they aren't qualified for.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe8bocU64CT
Traeven doesn't blink.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡU7rZEvQg1f
He doesn't look away.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡG79ErfYm46
Doesn't soften.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡI0CjlqwqmL
He simply smiles.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNSgpdelZBF
Traeven (slow, deliberate, confident)
"Veronica, if I wanted to impress you, I'd try harder than this…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxwpajpmre0
His voice dips.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqC7BjxMr2A
Traeven (warm but edged)
"If you must know… I admire Metro."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwSUGEy5ETl
Jeff and Phillip blink, surprised.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXaeCWuV6yc
Veronica's eyes narrow.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjXLAr3DpMz
Traeven:
"I want to see his leadership capabilities first hand."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQvXYwKdbNl
Traeven continues, still smiling, still calculating.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡP3amY586qU
"He's very interesting."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlwNlcWGpCr
He holds Veronica's gaze — not aggressively, but with quiet certainty that makes her pause.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNPKOFP70Nr
"I've known him for years, and I fancy paying him a visit."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGQKhDOqHzC
Then he leans in slightly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGcm2FleOTu
Traeven (voice low)
"But, I think the real question is…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡefPlLd3Pd4
His eyes sharpen.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡcBRDq7FTNh
Traeven (above a whisper)
"… why do you want to be here?"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHPH45NVWLC
Veronica's throat tightens.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVqtulLM8fx
She gulps, cornered, turning her face towards the window, pretending to watch leaves.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuidTvZ4mTO
Traeven doesn't stop watching her.
His gentle smile remains, but it's strained — a forced softness, a crack in her mask as he studies her reaction. Discovering truths she didn't want him to see. Then, effortlessly, he shifts back to Phillip and Jeff.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡL0a4LEB01T
Traeven: "Many villagers see Metro as a hero," Traeven says lightly. "Others, a false prophet."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgDPp4uCJMC
Jeff frowns, Phillip scratches his chin.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfSjySzyqPD
"We shared our teenagehood together," he laughs. "for years we ran in the streets.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9cgmxe4ocI
(beat)
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZgHFGmBif8
"That was a long time ago though… I knew what he was, but what he's become now...
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFmK1NHP1dQ
(beat)
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrkOJo2wLXn
...I do not know."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCUV48aqSry
He turns back to Veronica.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡm8UD70r1wL
Traeven:
"He's a handsome hero isn't he?"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnK9JWmrZRe
Veronica's eyes widened — shocked.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQbQdyx73mj
Traeven quickly gazes out the window, watching the orange leaves drift past.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2wivYqt5C5
Traeven (murmurs)
"Majestic and magical — the fall leaves. Like a Kingdom on fire… beautiful… peaceful…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡC8lTE3GZQ7
A light flickers across his face, warm and golden. Then he looks back at Veronica — this time serious, almost solemn.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡrT5yo6zVTB
"But even orange light from the blazing sun, sparkling off armor, can make anyone look heroic."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2xYLNu6b2
He pauses.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVdsLFjzgTk
Letting the words settle in.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0Wqcimyfgf
Phillip leans forward, serious.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡoBA89YxGIz
Phillip:
"So what you're saying is…the sun makes us look hotter?"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaAst3ybN6Z
Jeff nods enthusiastically.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTYDBUrhfOI
Traeven sighs internally.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtZ3d71HidQ
Veronica looks away to hide a smile.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMjRkg9JHzp
Traeven exhales, he smiles again (a different smile this time.)
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxSxnHcF0aq
Traeven:
"In your case, Phillip, the sun is doing its absolute best."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDFQcUMGwiA
Veronica looks down, defeated with compressed laughter.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjIy1HhEkZ0
Jeff looks confused. Phillip beams.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4eySCQ7ukR
Traeven enjoys the moment, leans back, genuine smile, fingers crossed, legs crossed.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPgsWLcJDM2
Traeven:
"Truth is," he says softly, "Some people are born to lead. Some to follow. Some to protect the Kingdom…'
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLOhw5aM14w
His eyes lowered, voice almost reverent.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRFtbz7JBLb
"… others, the future."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiYYZbrKmXj
Phillip blinks unsure.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsEFuiS7NEI
Traevens leans forward, inviting everyone in — gaze locking with theirs in unsettling clarity.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfCFR0OS5f4
Traeven:
"Every convoy has something worth dying for…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0ZxyVNXEgW
Phillip swallows.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkteEhOJ6Ml
Jeff shifts uncomfortably.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5FLLZwKTRc
Then Traevens eyes shift — not directly at Veronica, but close enough that she feels the heat.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhUaqL28s8u
"And every convoy," he murmurs, "has its treasure."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ26iOYukRZG
Veronica's breath catches.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0jIrHaIeXT
She doesn't move.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmCf7gREkAk
Doesn't speak.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡn0CSyrpv6w
But Traeven see's.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKyionLe58Y
He always does.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf2EdvaEddP
His smile returns — soft, elegant, but strained at the edges, like he's holding back truths already discovered.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvublZj6abq
The fall light washes over him, an orange glow flickering across his face like firelight.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmH4j6sw0pI
— CASTLE FORTRESS TRAIL — FALL —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAHKgyYAwyw
The lead carriage rolls steadily at the front of the convoy, its wheels humming softly over the dirt road. Light pours through open curtains of its gold and red frame, painting the interior with warm sun.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZepsM9v96F
Metro sits closest to the window, scroll unrolled in his lap. His eyes move over the inked lines with slow precision —Next to him, Rose watches quietly, hands folded in her lap. She doesn't interrupt. She likes seeing him like this, thoughtful and steady, carrying the weight of the village with that calm unshakable presence.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsEyFvMEmaX
Blake sits across from her, leg bouncing,
fingers tapping. He keeps glancing out the window, restless, scanning the treeline as if expecting something to leap out at any moment.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡAFpMg9nafO
Next to Blake, sits Gregory —shoulders lightly armored, with a cloaked cape, grounded like a stone pillar. He sits with perfect posture, hands resting on his knees, eyes forward. His presence alone steadies the carriage.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1SPyFf8m7b
Rose leans over slightly, her voice soft but curious.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTSeGphw2se
Rose:
"Whatcha' reading?"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTyUFqoJqOp
Metro doesn't look up, but he smiles.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKuifQenC1K
Metro:
"A scripture."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlESYRWZNp4
Blake's leg stops bouncing.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1Tan7Jtar7
Gregory's posture tightens for a moment before relaxing again.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8UCPDM0Q66
Rose tilts her head.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhr0JswBK2C
Gregory clears his throat.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV7QBau6Sr9
Gregory:
"Would you… read it out loud…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuMdXkh6DKf
All three of them stare at Metro.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtvXQfV0UHl
He blinks, lifting his head like he'd just realized all of his friends were there in the carriage.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRstOQYdO4Z
Then a warm glow.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡEbUkpWSB5l
Metro (smirking)
"Sure."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj6nRhCgUlS
He unrolls the scroll a little further, clearing his throat.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwwq7UfNu5m
"Let's see what it says…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFCLPcYbliK
His voice has a calm, steady cadence —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgtI0kfIw4G
Metro:
"Blessed is the one who places their trust in the Divine.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbFNrtdoWEl
They become like a tree planted beside living waters
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOfkvW30F2I
—roots deep,
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmviA1q6vjw
leaves unwithered,
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡHXVj0qsUto
untouched by heat or draught,
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡi4pAmOBv1J
always bearing fruit."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnORbIijTbO
The carriages falls silent.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJK706BVN2R
Gregory bows his head slightly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkfT4CkkTmK
Then shifts forward.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK5FOBrfcta
Gregory:
"If you don't mind me asking…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBcIXKXkPgv
His voice is low, respectful.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelvVFRqedA
"… how did you invite The Divine Flame?"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡwyx8ZyrwlQ
Metro locks into Gregory's aura.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3C80YgjOhn
Not dramatically but very subtle.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡygAlsytge6
Almost in a painful way, where a memory hits too hard.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡe2mvNsjrWz
His eyes stay locked.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTTrfLCDXlG
Metro:
"There are many out there with divine power, given through The Spirit.'
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPRMxW7M6pe
'Teaching Truth and Knowledge."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ623m1iAAbK
The air in the carriage changes.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSPDMHd3p7p
Even Blake feels it.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKiKsHVUxTg
Metro keeps speaking but softer now — like the truth itself hurts.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡp8kGuQq5w7
Metro:
"You just have to look for it."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡj5Y8YotJEy
Blake exhales, long and slow.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡOmQOH5A3T4
Blake:
"Wow…"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡaYmB7L3ojR
He turns his face towards the window, watching the trees blur past, suddenly humbled.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpHCQ9siMbg
Gregory lowers his gaze, absorbing every word.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtRkdLIulG7
Rose watches Metro with a mix of awe and worry — she could feel the weight behind what he wasn't saying.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ1CDyK1rzfo
Then —The carriages come to a slow halt.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNOUa4rWmEF
The convoy reaches the outer gate of the city, just as the tension in the air becomes unbearable.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWhaqiypATL
Metro steps out first, Rose right behind him, Blake and Gregory flanking.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbsbCEw6xmV
Something feels wrong.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWpIINNzdoI
The archers on the right front tower suddenly scream.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7Yzi0GfFAD
Archers — "CONTACT! CONTACT! ON THE EAST RIDGE!"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2Om4Ica2nU
Before Metro even turns —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡgRSbQ9ZvYK
BOOM.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmOn97JNqoR
A thunderous explosion rips through the distant tree line. A mushroom cloud surges upward, followed by a shockwave of fire that rolls across the horizon like a mini nuke.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ7yUNbYtLM0
The ground trembles.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡMAxu6wFXbH
Horses rear.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0phKLd1pAa
Soldiers shout.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9sDcJjwQOl
Metro doesn't hesitate.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡelpegujjqE
Metro:
"LET'S GOO!!"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡLjZr0Q39dT
Rose grabs her satchel.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiXomm46UHv
Blake snatches his bow.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTmMhHc6QkN
Gregory draws his own bow in one fluid motion, sprinting toward the frontline.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡq9GLkCHf2W
Metro, Rose, and Blake book it toward the rear end of the convoy where Paul and Lilly are.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡt5XcUrr2fw
— Switch Scene — Continue Scene —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0B7KsiZ2uv
Traeven see's the mushroom cloud through the window.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡhvekmglc0E
His eyes widen.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡjQUnrFfq7j
— in disbelief.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡGz4tGnjKDp
— in recognition.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBJNkLiQtp1
Veronica gasps, clutching the seat with her fingertips.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ0coU1qCMdW
Phillip hops out like a trained military unit.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsezs4bZjOe
Jeff stumbles outward, opposite of Phillip, scrambling for footing.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnBgqjsG5FD
Traeven leans out the window just enough to confirm what he is seeing, then snaps back inside, eyes locking to Veronica's terrified face.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡqTsUtlci17
He doesn't hesitate.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJ9s2HwJhYk
He vaults into the front seat of the carriage, grabbing the reins like a man possessed.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxco5EHurSS
Traeven (screaming in lunacy)
"YA! YA! YA!"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡDkoeyoYwxC
The horses lurch forward violently as Traeven whips the reins with theatrical intensity, the carriage fishtails before stabilizing the one-eighty turn.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbw7HtUGZrB
Dust explodes behind him as he tears through the convoy line, passing Paul and Lilly like a red and black comet.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡB5XCKDtaKu
Veronica doesn't wait.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡdnNA3Hp6FY
She throws herself out of the carriage mid flight.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiiIPZTlcq9
She hits the dirt hard —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡN2Q8NCKiYm
rolls —
rolls again —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8KhEpbWXga
skids —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡy6xTqQaadQ
tumbles —
a smaller dust cloud billows behind her in contrast to Traven's monstrous plume.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡfPURH76xaT
She comes to a stop, bruised, scraped, coughing, but alive.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡPt2MRwzgYm
Behind her, Traeven's voice still echoes through the chaos.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTaqdJgLC1R
Traeven (fading sound)
"YA! YA! YA! C'MON!"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ59SOVjkCXS
His shouting fades, disappearing down a road, like he's been waiting his whole life to play hero in someone else's tragedy.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡCIxM3SToJ1
Paul, Lilly, and Stone don't even look back. They gallop forward with high alert, weaving through dropped wagons, trotting now towards the smokey front gate where screaming is heard echoing.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuX6OyMLb3C
The convoy halts.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSptvnv2CnU
The world shifts.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxHC6DpSU5m
— Switch Scene — Continue Scene —
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡuZXzkJ5rA0
Sally skids beside the ration wagons, hooves carving trenches in the dirt. Metro doesn't wait — he jumps on instantly. Rose swings up behind him. Blake grabs Curtis by the leash and sprints after them.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡKyva90QNLv
Sally, Curtis, and the gang push past the wagon convoy, weaving through panicked soldiers and overturned crates, until they reach Paul and Lilly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡK1b80KhgP8
Paul spins Stone around, urgency written on his face. He hops down.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡIWzWjpQeTO
Paul:(yelling)
"LILLY! ROSE! Hop on Stone and Curt! Head back to the workshop!"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnKxLmDHdMf
They both bolt toward their horses.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡl0ZzDYicnT
Paul turns to Metro.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ9nM5gCF2oP
Paul:(sharp, commanding)
"Metro — find Ana and get her out on Sally."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmtCruj9BZD
Metro nods once, jaw tight, and takes off after mounting Sally. Blake follows likewise and holds on from loosely from the back of Metro shirt. Head tilted, eyes forward.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡxFRYQlhB9m
Lilly and Rose have already mounted their horses.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ5GLNkYZ5Sn
Curtis barks wildly.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡChOhSLOvIK
Paul smacks Stone’s hind quarters with everything he has.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ4EThrnBlAj
Paul:
“Go!”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡFUdYzPxcrq
Stone launches forward, Lilly barely holding on as the dust swallows them.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡbomCKvm9sQ
Only when they disappear into the haze—
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡmsasBxvvMN
Only when he knows they’re clear— then
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQPOHEGJvmm
He draws his axes.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡSuEz3cr8S3
Both blades slide free with a metallic whisper.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXqT9K7IAwH
He then turns and walks straight into the tall, glowing hay fields - toward the front gate just where the world is falling apart.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡWkc2UxhcRU
Metro and Blake jump off Sally mid stride.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡJkanP1GaZQ
And there— at the top of the steps leading to the main hall—Ana stands frozen still.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡkn60H0hoqQ
Silent.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXcAfw2feLs
Empty.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡNsDc7BNPTp
Like the world has stopped around her.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ2lxLtGG2SY
Lutherain’s voice booms across the courtyard.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡBTuCDoCO4K
Luther:
“Take the battlements!! Greg, Chad, Sam!”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtIqzsQtqg7
Knights scatter through the hay fields,
checking the perimeter.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡZ0s0wT9quW
Dozens of soldiers rush into the castle.
Shields raised, weapons drawn.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡVKraTCw0OQ
But Metro only sees Ana.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡf19fShwwkS
He sprints up the stone steps, grabs her shoulders and stares into her vacant eyes.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡpcKWfhViqu
Metro:
“Ana. What happened!?”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡc8zPV5cjVr
Nothing—She doesn’t blink.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡUcECn7EAmK
Doesn’t move.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡr6FGnUBrSL
She’s not there.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡneLV1wdTTd
Metro (screaming louder)
“ANA!”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡx5bXFkrNqT
He shakes her— gently, but desperately.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlEC6fMlrv4
Her eyes flicker awake, Just barely, She looks up at him like they are in a warm, narrow cottage together.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡV8ZldDILjE
Ana: (voice cracking, trembling)
“I, I…”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ8SKSj2ms7F
“I used the gem… to harvest early…”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡnCu4a3eFBy
“to set you free…”
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡlFHZRzxjpQ
Ana smiles at him, completely devastated.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡvD1nPD94hG
Ana:
"The scent."
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡRKIWm0ADkx
She can't find words to finish speaking—Metro doesn’t let her anyway—He scoops her into his arms, holding her tight, and runs away from the hell birthing behind him.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡiWOCLwBIU7
After skipping down the steps with his Ani cradled close, He reaches Sally and places her on top lightly. Metro slaps Sally's flank hard.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡTWpEbqcv85
Metro: (shouting,commanding)
"COTTAGE! HOME! NOW!"
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡsPLcbZioGT
Sally explodes forward, hooves tearing through dirt and hay, carrying Ana away from the fires, the screams, the castle and the danger.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡ3B2k2UHJae
Metro watches her go —just long enough to know she’s safe.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡXZszHgORoW
Then he turns back towards the battlefield. The smoke has calmed from the distance.
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡQTgRNdMVGF
54Please respect copyright.ＰＥＮＡＮＡtfPrMcJz8F
→ Request update
and then Add to home screen.