The wooden walkway near the old haven creaked under weary feet. Yet with hope in his heart, the young man continued his slow stride. He was a handsome youth and was dressed in casual attire known to many Akerians. A sleeveless brown shirt adorned his torso and reached his waist where pants of the same color were loosely worn on his long legs that began to throb with fatigue. He had been wandering many miles to find the wise one that he heard of and taking another deep breath, looked around.

His appearance was comely, short blonde hair fell just below his earlobes and framed a beautiful face that normally held joy, but now held anxiety. Such emotions did much to wear down his appearance and surveying the area with his hazel colored eyes, he saw The Old Haven nearby. He heard of the large house before but had never seen it, yet his anxiety began to turn to hope as he called out, "Nekana!"

From inside the haven, Kirakah heard an unfamiliar voice call out a familiar name. She took a deep breath and realizing that she sensed no danger, opened the door of her house to look outside. There she saw the youth and with a raised brow replied, "You call the name of someone important to me. Why do you seek her?"

The man looked up at her and gasped. He never expected anyone humanoid to live near The Old Haven, let alone a woman and one so beautiful. He bowed his head in respect and said, "I seek Nekana. The one who is rumored to have great wisdom. I have been wandering for a long time, not knowing where to look so please forgive me if I seem impatient but I must find her."

She still didn’t sense he wished her harm but crossed her arms over her chest and said in a firm voice, "Why MUST you find her? I can help you but I too can be impatient."

The protector spoke in a tone revealing confidence and intimidation. Sensing this, he spoke quickly, "I am Tirnok, and I reside in the West Side Castle. Many of the residents in the castle have suffered a strange illness that no one can understand. Most of them have been quarantined, but we are still fearful of the disease spreading. One of the lords inside the castle told me to find Nekana who would reside near The Old Haven. It is our hope she may have some information about the disease and how to heal the others and stop it from spreading."

Kirakah listened to the words he spoke and nodded for a moment, "I have yet to visit the West Side Castle and introduce myself. I had hoped it would be under better circumstances."

Tirnok took a step closer to her as her words sounded less intimidating, "And you are?" he asked with no fear, but pure curiosity.

"Kirakah, protector of Akerion and Nekana is my mentor. If you can wait just a moment, I will take you to her."

He heaved a sigh of relief, "Thank you Kirakah." He replied, "I regret to say I have not heard of you before but that is the least of my concern. I don’t have the energy to be much surprised by now though, yet I must admit finding a woman out here alone…well she would have to be one of great strength to survive and…."

"I am not your concern." Kirakah interrupted, "Yet your welfare and the welfare of the others is."

He was a little surprised at her words but didn’t take the time to ask for much of an explanation. If she was a protector, then surely she would help solve the current crisis.

In little time she looked upward at a grove of brown trees that covered the roof of the haven, and extended far above them. "Nekana!" she shouted, "Throw down the rope it’s Kirakah. Someone is here to see you and he means you no harm."

"Up there?" Tirnok asked as he saw nothing but the trees, their leaves and their branches. "But I don’t see anything."

"That’s the point." She replied, "You aren’t supposed to see anything and in fact you won’t see her house until you enter it. It’s one of the first things she showed me. Being one of the oldest beings on this planet, she has to keep herself hidden to protect herself."

"Ahem, one of the oldest?" he asked, confused.

"If you should know of anyone older, then the knowledge will come to you." She said, not concerned if her new companion’s curiosity was sated or not.

Then from the trees, a long rope quickly fell down. She smiled a bit and said, "There we are. If you are too weak to climb then you will have to wait until I can pull you up. You are indeed weary from your journey, but now that your quest is complete, perhaps you can rest a moment."

He began to reach for the rope as she extended it to him, "My quest will be complete once those in the castle are cured."

"As will mine be." She said and after tugging on the rope, began to climb up on it. After she moved up a few feet, her companion began to follow.

About twenty feet from the ground the rope came to an end where a large tree branch was seen. She easily hoisted herself onto the branch and extended her hand toward Tirnok. With a firm tug, she lifted him onto the tree branch and offered a smile, "Almost there." She said and began to take a step forward.

Tirnok shifted a bit to regain his balance and watched as Kirakah easily walked on, not concerned about falling off the branch at all. "How are you, so strong and uhm…"

"And how nimble?" she finished his question.

"Yeah, how nimble too."

"Blessed abilities." She replied, "It’s too long of an explanation but just know I’m on your side, and I’m here to help." She then took a final step forward where the rope ended, "Ah, here we are." She waved him to come closer, "Come on in. Just follow me, you won’t be able to see her house, until you are inside."

"Too weird, but an effective way to hide." He said and took a step directly behind her.

In less than a second Nekana’s home made itself apparent as they stepped forward. Where it looked like they were on nothing but a large tree limb, now looked like they were in a large, circular room made of wooden planks and long, wooden beams for the walls. Yet instead of being gray, the wood was a light brown color, something very durable, but very rare on the planet. Tirnok gazed at this in wonder but also couldn’t help but stare at the shelves that were everywhere. Many held books, others held scrolls and containers such as jars and crucibles yet he gasped as he saw a medium sized wooden table with a short figure sitting under it.

"It’s not often I have visitors." The Old Troll replied, "Yet my ward must of brought you here for a good reason."

Kirakah nodded and began to pull the rope from Nekana’s treehouse back inside, "Yes, he says there is a disease that has invaded the West Side Castle."

"Invaded?" Nekana asked in concern, "There are not many plagues on Akerion."

Tirnok stepped forward and quickly spoke, "No, there really aren’t but for this one there does not seem to be a cure. It has already infected many of the residents and we need your help!"

"Shhhh, sit down my boy." The troll gently ordered, "Tell me the symptoms."

"I do not know the source of the illness but those who have it well, they start coughing and then their eyes turn purple. It’s so strange. After that their eyes begin to glow and their blood veins begin to pop out from their skin. They don’t bleed necessarily but rise forth and look like purple and red, instead of a light blue. Then their speech slurs until they babble. While they first start babbling they can’t move but after they stop babbling they do move and then somehow the disease spreads."

"You know a lot about this disease." Kirakah replied, "Are you the castle’s doctor?"

"No, just a messenger but they gave me all the details to tell you." He then looked at Nekana, "What do you think?"

The Old Troll sighed to exhale her apprehension but replied, "It sounds as if they are Goulons."

"Goulons?" he asked, "What are they?"

"I am afraid I do not actually know much about them but I know they reproduce through a disease. This disease is spread through their breath. Exactly how well are those who are infected kept separate from those who are not?"

"I assume they are quarantined well. If the disease is spread through their breath, all we have to do is not breath anything near them, right?"

"Their breath can be exhaled for long distances and they are strong creatures, but as I said before, I am afraid I do not know much about them." She then looked at her ward, "Kirakah, to your right look on the third shelf and hand me the small blue jar."

The protector nodded and reached forward. With a few quick strides the jar was given to the troll. It was then Nekana waved the young man over, "This is a special ointment that I will only allow you, Kirakah and the rulers of your castle to use. If you place the ointment on your lips it will give you resistance to the disease for only three days. However the Goulons can still attack you." She then looked toward the protector, "You can use it also Kirakah, but realize you also have an advantage. Should you remind yourself not to breathe, you will not be infected."

"But that’s hard to remember sometime." She replied knowing that even though she didn’t need air to exist, she breathed on instinct many times.

"That is why I also suggest you use this. It will give you some time to quarantine the castle, and find a way to end and hopefully reverse the disease. Kirakah, you and Tirnok go immediately to the castle and make sure the Goulons are kept separate from the others. Then I suggest you go to the Owloian village Kirakah, to find out more about these creatures and how to defeat them. You don’t have much time, and you must succeed. But be aware that to enter the village, you will have to use your mind. The Owloians are very intelligent. That is how they manage to survive."

"I will not fail." Kirakah replied.

"You don’t have a choice." Her mentor replied. "Now leave quickly both of you, time is a luxury you do not have now."

Tirnok nodded and nudged Kirakah with his elbow, "Anything else you need to get before we go?"

"I have my sword." She said knowing the weapon could remain inside her soul, yet it was also enclosed in a scabbard attached to her waist by a belt, "I will use the rope and get some other small weapons, than that will be all."

"It won’t take long to gather them I hope. I believe I can find the way back to the castle, but I got lost on the way here."

"Take the one path that ends on the wooden walkway to your left. Take it straight and you’ll get there." The Old Troll interjected, "It’s rather easy, you have just never been near The Old Haven, Tirnok."

"No I suppose I haven’t."

"Well that’s settled." Kirakah replied, "Easy place to find, and a hard danger to face." She grabbed the rope that they used to climb up into the house and threw it down toward the ground many feet below them. It was evident she wasn’t going to waist any time as she looked at her companion, "You going to slide down first or should I?"

After stopping by The Old Haven and grabbing a rope and two small daggers, the two were on their way. Sure enough the walkway in front of The Old Haven led to a path through the bamboo forest that traveled on for a long time. The two were determined though, and ran quickly down the path as far as they could. Time was not their friend but fortune was at their side as they managed to make it to the West Side Castle before Akerion’s white sun set into darkness.

The protector had to take a moment to view the large fortress and at the same time tried not to be in awe of it. While it held little aesthetic value, it was strong and appeared impregnable. Its walls were made of heavy stone that were stacked up and up on each other. The space between them held no mortar but also held no space at all. It was as if they were designed to fit into each other perfectly to build a strong structure. The width of the fortress spanned at least 100 feet and as she kept looking above it was easy to see five cylindrical towers that pointed high into the sky. Throughout the outside walls, various square windows could be seen and from some of them, light appeared.

"So that’s your home?" Kirakah asked, "I see why you should feel safe behind those walls."

"They’re not very safe now." He replied as they both moved forward.

"Well hopefully we should change that. Who is the head of the castle?"

"Ruling families or a family often rules the castle. At any time, five families may govern it and rule from the five towers. We are a peaceful people though, and choose the families through bloodlines or if a bloodline should prove itself, it may rule with the others. Right now there are only two ruling families though. Each has a king and a queen, yet one has no children and the others have three. There is one daughter, and two sons. They are not very young, but only one is old enough to take a mate should he choose. The others well, their time should come in a few years."

"As long as the Goulons do not end up taking over." She then looked at some of the windows many feet above them, "Should we take the easy way into the castle, or choose a more surprising route?"

"No reason to make things difficult. If we just continue to follow the path we can enter that way. It’s relatively safe to assume those infected with the disease are still quarantined." He said with a hint of confidence, but as the two continued to walk down the path, Kirakah began to feel uneasy.

The same sensation that revealed danger could be nearby rose in her chest and she quickly shouted, "Tirnok wait!"

Fortunately he paused a moment to turn around and look at the protector which managed to give him just enough room as something suddenly lunged forward. It appeared humanoid but as they got a closer look, it did not resemble an Akerian. Its skin was gray and massively wrinkled and its eyes were nothing but purple sockets where no eyeballs or eyelids could be seen. Beneath the skin dark purple and red veins pulsated not in the rhythm of life…but in the rhythm of death. Its lips gray, it opened its mouth and began to exhale.

"Hold your breath and get the ointment!" Kirakah shouted, "I think I know what this is!"

Tirnok easily did as was told and in seconds, put the ointment around his lips. The timing could not of been better for immediately three more figures appeared around them. They moaned softly as they parted their lips, yet the protector did not fear them.

As one approached she unsheathed her sword. With no hesitation, she quickly spun around and decapitated one with precision. Her movements very quick, Tirnok was almost unaware of her actions.

"I see a few more coming!" he shouted as she spun around to decapitate another, "I felt they were all inside the castle, I guess I was wrong."

With a grimace, Kirakah jumped to the third in an effort to attack it. Sure enough, her dexterity did not fail her and with a powerful swing, the third head hit the ground.

"I’m not sure if these creatures can regenerate or not." She said, "But that is not the matter." She quickly sheathed her sword back into the scabbard attached to her waist, but fortunately, that was not the only thing attached. Knowing she needed to come prepared, the protector produced a grappling hook and a large rope from the belt that held her scabbard. Not taking anymore time, she looked upward to find a window high above the ground, but upon the walls of the castle.

"Where will that window take us?" she asked.

"We’re in luck if you can throw the hook that far." Tirnok said, "It should take us to where the two families should be protected."

"Let’s hope our luck lasts." She said. The remaining Goulons continued to approach but she did not focus on their movements. Her eyes watched the window as she twirled the rope in the air to gain momentum. In a matter of a few seconds, she used her strength to throw, and with a ‘cling’ the hook held to the windowsill with a firm grip.

"Impressive." Her companion told her.

"Then brag about me later." She smirked, "For right now, grab on and start climbing."

He wasn’t one to argue and with a firm grip of his own, began to pull himself up on the rope. It didn’t take him long to began scaling the wall, with the protector not far behind him. Though he wasn’t nearly as fast as she, he did his best to keep up a good pace.

"How much farther is it for you?" Kirakah asked with no hesitation. She scaled the wall, but also looked downward to see the Goulons begin to tug at the rope. "We don’t want to give these creatures any reason to think they have an open invitation."

"Almost there." Tirnok grunted. "A few more steps."

But while he was taking a few more steps, a few Goulons grabbed hold of the rope. The protector knew she had to stop for a moment and focus. "Go on and get inside." She said as she looked down. Using more of her strength, she grabbed onto the rope with her left hand, while fumbling with her scabbard with the other. Then with an agile move, she held her sword in her hand and swung down hard to cut the rope behind her.

Tirnok did not stop to watch this as he pulled himself inside but Kirakah smirked as she saw them fall to the ground. Then looking upward, she continued pulling herself up until she met the windowsill. It was also then, she heard a scream from her companion.

Reacting quickly, Kirakah jumped into a hallway. It was a rather long one made of gray stone with black speckles. She could only assume it was a very hard and durable material yet not as durable as the metal door that began to move. "They were locked behind here! Here!" Tirnok shouted, "This is one of the strongest doors we have and we figured there was no way they could burst through here!"

Kirakah calmly looked at him, "Are the survivors behind this door, or should it just be the infected residents?"

"Just the infected residents as far as I know." He replied with a trembling voice.

She looked at the walls of the hallway and then back at him, "And what of this substance?"

"The walls here are made of Yevin stone, probably the hardest and heaviest substance on the planet."

She looked at the shinny metal door and it continued to move forth with the force behind it. "Then I’ll block this area off temporarily. Hallways can be rebuilt, lives cannot."

Tirnok looked at her with a confused face, "You’re….you’re going to do what?!"

She shot him a quick glance, "Take the ointment and find the others. I won’t be far behind. Trust me I’ll work quickly."

Tirnok shook his head, "No…I can’t leave you here…not with all of them behind the door."

It was then she spun around to look directly at him. Her eyes gave him a commanding stare and her voice was even more overpowering when she shouted, " GO NOW!"

For a brief moment Tirnok felt terror if he did not heed her command. Blessed by the Akons, Kirakah knew of her power of persuasion and felt it was good to use it, especially to save her friend. She then took a few steps back from the door and looked at the walls and ceiling. In a matter of moments, she figured out how to block the door.

The hallway was constructed in an archlike fashion and barley stood a foot or two above her head. With the right cuts and with the right speed, the walls would collapse. Knowing this, she extended her sword and began slashing at her left. The slashes were made with a variety of long marks until finally, large bits and pieces of the rock began to fall. Smiling Kirakah continued with the right side of the wall, and more pieces fell.

It was then she increased the speed of her movements and began to back up as well. The faster she slashed, the more stones fell to block the door. She continued this until stepping back 20 feet, leaving a large and almost impregnable barrier between her and the creatures.

"Fair enough." She said with a smile and quickly headed down the other side of the hallway.

It didn’t take long for the protector to be led to another room. This one was made of different stone, which held the same colors, but looked more reflective. Its shape was circular, but this did not concern her as much as the people huddled inside. There were eight, three female and five male. One of the women looked to be of young age with flowing blond hair and an innocent face. Her eyes blinked curiously as she looked at Kirakah with a confused, yet anxious expression. The other two women were about the same age, both with light brown hair and stood up to take a look at her. They were dressed in long, red gowns, which shinned lightly as they stepped forward. Both moderately beautiful, the two looked very alike, save for their faces which had different features. One held a more angular countenance while the other held a more round face. They both stopped for a moment as the men approached.

Two of the men were a little close to Tirnok’s age, even though one might be a little older. One held blonde hair, the other black and both dressed in loose shirts and pants. They stayed close to the older men who wore red robes with silver and gold trim. The robes flowed a little as they continued to walk forward, and not far from them stood Tirnok.

Yet Kirakah did not take much time to greet her new friend as she bowed her head in respect to those who approached, "The rulers of the West Side Castle I hope?"

"Yes." One of the older men replied, "And I believe Tirnok was trying to tell us something as we heard loud crashing sounds and only hoped it would not be evil crashing through."

The protector again bowed her head, "I have attempted to remedy that problem, at least for now. And I regret to introduce myself to you in these circumstances. However I am Kirakah, protector of Akerion and at your humble service. Tirnok found me when he was looking for my mentor and now I am on a quest to protect you, and end this deadly disease."

"We will take all the help we can get." One of the ladies replied, "But what do you know of these creatures?"
"Not a lot." Kirakah replied, "Save for the fact they do reproduce through a disease as you have seen. I have cut the stone in your hall to enforce the door you have. It will hold, though probably not forever."

"So naturally we are still threatened." The other man said.

"Yes, you are. However Tirnok has some ointment you can use should the creatures break through. It is not permanent though, but I must leave to find others who can help find a cure."

Everyone in the room looked at Tirnok as he produced a small blue container. "Share and share alike." He grinned, obviously not in shock from her previous words anymore, "Though for what it’s worth I have faith in this protector. She is a quick fighter and noble defender."

"Save your praise for when this crisis is over." She merely told him. She then looked to the others, "Is there another window I can take to be on my way?"

"Yes of course." One of the ladies said and pointed to her right. There was another window that was easily cut open revealing Akerion’s landscape. "Though there’s no door."

"I can land." She said as she took a few steps toward it. "Take care of them Tirnok, I will try to be back soon."

"You’re going to what?" the lady said as she watched Kirakah head toward the window. "Surely you can’t jump out of that and stand on your two feet!"

Kirakah did not make it her priority to respond. Instead she did exactly that. In a matter of a split second, she landed on the ground far beneath the window. Her stamina easily absorbed the blow to her feet and she quickly ran off in an attempt to find the Owloian village, her image now unseen to those far above her.

"As I said." Tirnok smiled, "She’s a noble fighter."

"And she might be the only one who can save us." One of the men said with anxiety in his voice. In moments everyone returned to the center of the room to stand on guard and hopefully, heard good news from Kirakah.

The white sun turned into a white moon as darkness fell upon Akerion. With persistence, the protector traveled through the bamboo forests looking for the village. Her eyes were able to focus fairly well in the dark, but the shadows gave her no affirmation as nothing appeared. With her uncanny stamina, she was still able to walk on her feet as the sun finally rose. It was then she noticed something unique.

She found herself in the forest of tall bamboo but noticed for a moment how certain areas of the forest seemed more ‘blurry’ than others. Perhaps it had to do with the light refracting off of different areas of the forest? But why? Not sensing danger, Kirakah walked into the blurred stalks and immediately found herself in another room.

There was no warning as she was teleported but fortunately, she still felt no danger. The area was a rather small one made of gray stone walls but that did not keep her attention. What caught her eye were three large gemstones suspended in the air. About six inches in diameter, they each had one large ray of light run through them that was the exact color of each gem. On the left side was a red one, on the right side a blue one, and in the center a green one. All rays of light came together to create a swirling mass of blue, red, and green colors.

Kirakah peered at the rays for a moment then looked at the center stone. For a brief moment, there looked to be a smaller gem the color of yellow, within the green one. It was then a simple thought entered her mind quickly.

Yellow, blue and red and primary colors.

Strange notion on a world like Akerion where the most common colors were gray, white, black and brown but the thought entered her mind immediately. With no hesitation, she took her sword and gently cut the yellow stone out of the green one.

As the yellow stone was cut out, what was left of the green stone immediately slipped away. It was then the rays of yellow, blue and red met together before her feet. In an instance, the swirls of light changed from various hues to white light where a silver key could be seen in the center.

Sensing no danger, Kirakah reached down to pick up the key. It was then the stone wall opened to reveal someone her eyes had never seen.

He was a tall, middle aged man with long flowing white robes and long silver hair that fell beyond his medium sized shoulders. Though his face held few wrinkles it also held a welcoming, but curious glance. As the protector stepped forth his blue eyes glimmered a bit anxiously, but he likewise took a step forward.

His face was fair colored and slightly angular, almost reminding her of one of the rulers of the West Side Castle. Yet for some reason, she gathered the impression he held much intelligence as he spoke from small, white lips, "No one has solved that riddle, with the same speed. No one has been able to cut into the green stone to free the yellow, with such precision."

Kirakah’s curiosity also began to get the better of her, "So you were watching me?"

The man nodded, "Whenever someone comes close to our village, there is a riddle to solve. Should they manage to solve the riddle, a key to our village may be given, should I or some of the other elders deem the keymaster worthy."

The protector smiled as she heaved a sigh of relief, "So this is the Owloian village?"

He smiled back, "Yes. You have already heard of us, so you possess more knowledge than I expected." He then walked through the opening of the stone wall, "Please, come see us."

With no hesitation, Kirakah walked into the Owloian village and paused to marvel at the sight before her. Unlike the rest of Akerion, this area held no bamboo stalks but held massive clearings where immaculate, white stone laid beneath her feet. Weaving in and out of the clearings were crystal clear streams where various people drank from and sat by. Most of them held the same attire as her newfound companion and all were fair skinned as well. In the distance some small houses built of quartz were seen and could obviously be looked upon as dwellings for the villagers.

Even the protector was enthralled as she said, "It’s…beautiful. Utterly beautiful…."

He smiled as he began walking to the left. His steps were slow but he replied, "We uphold things such as science as our main way of survival. Not everyone on Akerion knows of us, and very very few know how to enter our domain. You were lucky."

"Perhaps it was more than luck." She said with insistence, "I am Kirakah, protector of Akerion. I need to make your acquaintance anyway but I would of liked it to of been in better circumstances."

"Protector?" he asked, surprised, "Of Akerion? How can this be?"

"I was blessed and sent by the Akons and.."

It was then he stopped dead in his tracks and turned to look directly at her, "It’s true." He muttered, "I believe I have had visions of hope, but never knew what form it would take. My people remain rather safe, but as you know my dear, nothing is safe on this world."

"No nothing is." She interjected, "Which is why I’m here."

"And you obviously need my assistance." He said walking into one of the quartz like buildings, "Please…come inside. My home mostly consists of books so do not be alarmed if that’s all you see."

And indeed, that was the main thing the protector saw. She entered a rather large room with a glass table in the center. Yet everything else was covered in books. Shelves upon shelves filled the area and even a few scrolls could be seen. The protector did not have time to review the titles so instead, stood near the table and looked back at her new companion.

"I am Renar." He introduced himself, "One of the elders of the Owloian village. I am not sure exactly what you know of us, but we use our ‘mind’ to ensure our survival. If anyone knows the history of this world well, it’s probably us. Our science has kept us alive and safe, and will likely do so, for a very long time. There are many things we can help you with and since the Akons blessed you, I think it would be in our best interest to help you."

Kirakah smiled, "Yes, it would and any help would be appreciated. In fact my ‘creators’ ask me to learn more when danger might not seem so imminent."

Renar smiled, "Oh yes…the creators of our world are wise and in fact I see you carry one of their gifts with you. A sword made of crystal, which cannot be shattered, or destroyed. It can do nearly about anything."

Kirakah smiled proudly, "Yes, it can. I am learning to wield it well, but how did you know of it?"

"After the Wave of Resistance passed there were rumors of such a weapon, it is nice to see some of those rumors are true. Yet I have a feeling, you came here on an urgent matter, did you not?"

Taking a deep breath, she nodded in affirmation, "Yes, I came to seek knowledge of the Goulons and how to defeat them. They have taken over the West Side Castle and if I’m lucky, they haven’t infected the ruling families yet."

Renar paused a moment then replied, "Oh yes, the West Side Castle. Like the East Side, a powerful haven for its residents. It is a pity the Goulons choose that place, but like all evil, it must reproduce."

"And reproduce through a disease that cannot be cured."

"You are correct Protector, but let me explain what I know. The Goulons are walking dead. Their bodies maintain the virus for a limited amount of time. During that time, their breath transmits the virus. However like some things, a Goulon’s body should expire soon. At that time it becomes much like a dead soul."

"A dead soul?" Kirakah asked quite puzzled, "But souls can’t die."

"Much like a dead soul in the fact it has no humanity and is tied to one of two purposes. One group of souls who are strong enough will compete in a battle for supremacy, which will have one victor. The other group who is weaker will witness the event. The second group will be the only group left standing. After the fight is over, the one Goulon soul has the ability to issue forth The Grand Command."

"I’m listening." She replied as she heard every word, "So eventually the corpse dies which leaves the soul enslaved to either fight, or be a servant to the only one who is left standing?"

"That is correct, but the other souls can only be led by ONE command that will be given once. For the cycle to continue, normally the Grand Command is to reproduce. Once this grand command is given, the souls find a way to trigger the virus in some Akerians, and the cycle happens all over again."

"Is there an exact time cycle or number of Goulon souls that must collect for the gathering?"

Renar shook his head, "Not that we are able to determine. However the only way to defeat the Goulons is for you to fight the warrior souls."

Kirakah paused for a moment, "So you’re saying in a way, I’d have to be the one last soul left after fighting all the others."

"Probably yes. No one in history has ever succeeded in defeating the Goulons. It’s a cycle that is never ending."

"Well no one in history has ever seen me before." She smirked, "Ok how do I find them?"

"You will need to find the battlefield of souls which would probably be near the West Side Castle, or at least that would be an easy assumption."

"Ok. So what I need to do is be on the lookout for souls."

"Yes, but you can’t see souls with the normal eye."

"Even though my eyesight is keen?"

"Yes protector your eyesight is keen, but you fail to notice something." Renar pointed to her sword, "It also has vision."

"So look through my crystal blade and I might find them?"

"Yes, you may. Though for the fight I’d rely on your senses too."

"Yes, I’ve been good at sensing danger." She took a deep breath and nodded in respect to Renar, "I thank you."

"You are welcome protector. Even though we have no connections with The West Side Castle, if something threatens innocence, it indirectly affects us."

"You are wise." She smirked.

"As are my people. And should you need us again, please remember, you have our key in your hand."

Kirakah smiled as she looked down at her right hand. Sure enough, the key glimmered as she looked at it. Holding only a few grooves, it would serve as the entrance to a place holding grand wisdom. She then looked back at Renar, "I suppose it’s easy to use?"

"Just carry it with you when you enter our area. As you saw, the light of the bamboo forests slightly shifted indicating our village was near. It will be easier for you to find next time, trust me on that."

"I certainly trust you." She said, "And to leave? Just follow the same path I took and head westward to the castle?"

"Yes." He nodded with a smile, "And a good judgment call. The battlefield is very likely on the castle grounds…just remember the way to see the souls. But also keep in mind that these are strong and fearless warriors and their own weapons have their own power."

"I shall." She said and put the key in a small bag attached a belt around her waist. "And I shall return to seek your wisdom again."

"And you shall succeed." Renar added as she stepped out of the door. With the smile still on his face, he had faith the residents of the castle should be saved.

Leaving the Owloian village was certainly much easier than finding it. Following the same path as before, she quickly found herself in the forests of Akerion again. A hint of fatigue made itself known as she beheld the white sun, but knowing her resistance to common ailments, going without sleep wouldn’t harm her as much. "I’ll need to refocus after this." She muttered, knowing her mind was also overwhelmed by her experience with the elder, but persistence outweighed any weakness. Knowing the castle laid a relatively good distance, she began to trek to her left leaving her new friend and his people far behind.

Her pace quickened from a walk to a run and the faster she moved, the more the forest seemed to be nothing but a blur to her. After more time had passed, she finally found a path that was familiar to her. Having faith, she took it and after running for a while longer, the castle walls made themselves known to her.

The structure still held the same shape and heaving a sigh of relief between her lips she only hoped that this meant the Goulons had not infected anyone else. Keeping this hopeful thought, she looked around at the open area in front of the fortress. It spanned around forty feet long and wide with no trees or anything else until a few stalks of bamboo showed where the clearing ended. "About as good a place as any." She muttered and remembering what Renar said, she took her sword from her scabbard and began to shift the crystal hilt so she could see the area through the transparent blade.

What she saw astounded her. In the middle of the clearing she could make out figures who looked to be humanoid in form, but composed of white mist. The mist looked solid enough to create these figures, but as their white blades clashed smoke hissed from the weapons. It was hard to tell if they wore any armor, or any clothing at all for the faster they moved, the more misty they became. Most of them stood about 6 feet tall, save for one who stood ten. Yet she did not look at the largest one long as she took another moment to survey the situation.

The fighters were around twenty but that was not the largest group there. At the edge of the clearing many other white figures watched in awe of the battle. They were around the same height but held no weapons. It was also hard to discern their features save that white mist slowly flowed from and around them as they watched. The protector took another look as she saw they extended into the forests. There could of possibly been a hundred of them, but there was no time to count. For a brief moment, a sense of intense dread flooded her system. It could only be her danger sense and reacting quickly, she must of noticed that the warrior souls took notice of her looking.

She attempted to use her sword to watch them coming and was able to make out four approaching. For some strange reason, the four stopped fighting themselves and held their swords back in a defensive pose, as if ready to strike her at a moment’s notice. It was then she had to use her instincts and fight blind. Remembering that two were closer and were coming in from her right, she quickly spun around and extended her weapon in a sweeping motion. The move was done extremely fast and efficiently. For a brief moment she felt her sword meet resistance and then felt it slice through the air with no force against it. She could only surmise that she was able to cut through at least one of the souls but hoped it was both of them as she spun around to face her left.

Knowing the other two were from the other direction, she moved her sword in a quick, archlike motion and felt resistance, though it was less this time. Thinking she was only able to slightly harm one of them, she sliced through the air in an X like motion until more and more resistance was felt. The motions became faster until she felt no pressure on her blade.

Yet the dread was still there.

In reaction to her sense, she spun around five more times and hacked the air randomly. Her motions were so fast, even she had trouble keeping up with them herself. There was still no resistance and feeling out of options, she decided to try to take a look at what happened through her blade.

She took the sword and held it closer to her face. With focus, she gazed through the blade and saw the fight was still in full swing. Most of the battle was not extremely near her, so she looked around at her four attackers. With a smile she noticed three on the ground. Their sprits were severed, mostly through their torso being cut or slashed. Whatever wound they carried, no blood flowed but only mist. It was enough evidence that they were brought down by her weapon….but there were only three…..

The protector began to turn to her right to get a better look as to where the fourth one might stand. Yet she was not quick enough to find it. In an instant, it made itself known as its sword entered her back with enough force to pierce her flesh and move through her body with strength. Even though her danger sense never left her, Kirakah was completely surprised by the attack. Dropping her sword, she howled in grief and began screaming as intense pain began to flood her senses.

The sensation started off cold, not sharp as most weapons would feel. Then the blade felt even more cold inside her until it began to grow hot. The heat began to sear her senses and as agony flooded her senses, the only coldness she felt was her fingertips and feet beginning to grow numb. Then her limbs began to feel paralyzed yet all at once she told herself she had to fight this.

Gathering her mental strength she slowly tried to move her hands to her torso where the blade had pierced her. Due to her healing ability, she was only bleeding slightly. Unfortunately this was a powerful weapon but she would fight it. As her body burned and as her limbs continued to grow stiff, she finally managed to bring her fingers toward the blade. Wincing from the experience, she did everything she could to override the sword’s power. Using all her strength, she quickly pushed the blade out of her torso and through her back. It dropped to the ground with a light ‘thud’ sound yet the sound of her fall was much louder. As she landed her torso began to grow colder yet she still felt her fingers numb from the attack. Taking another breath, she winced as she tried to ignore the fact her hands were paralyzed.

A soft sigh escaped her lips as she remained on the ground for a few more seconds. It was then her healing ability started to make itself known. The wound began to quickly seal itself and as it did, her body temperature began to regulate itself. With a slight smile she began to move her fingers until she had complete control over them. It was miraculous but not surprising until she opened her eyes, not noticing a slight purple glow was shining from her lids.

As the wound completely healed something totally unexpected had occurred. Her sword a few feet from her, she was unable to use it to view the battlefield of souls. However now that she was struck with one of their weapons she was able to see the entire scene before her. Most of the warriors were on the ground save for three. She blinked a moment to focus and sure enough, the tallest warrior began to easily hack away at the others. Perhaps being struck with the blade and surviving gave her the ability to see the battle freely? It was an explanation but as the other two fell to the ground, Kirakah quickly grabbed her sword to challenge the last warrior to the death.

It towered over her by at least five feet and with broad shoulders, she felt it easier to define it as masculine. Having no fear, he looked down with a grimace. After examining her for a minute longer, a chuckle escaped his small white mouth. She did not laugh but gave him a serious look, "Defeat me, and the grand command is yours. Otherwise I will have control of your army.""

Those words sent him reeling into a frenzy. Acting quickly, he slashed his sword downward to make the fight a short one. Yet she was fast and dodged his first blow. Her high dexterity did not stop his movements as he began to parry his weapon in a downward motion. Using her own strength and agility, Kirakah blocked each assault with precision. Six downward swings were made and as the seventh began to be delivered, she changed tactics and jumped out of the way.

Her speed surprised him and for a brief moment he was unaware of where she jumped to. The protector found herself directly behind him and using an advantage, swung forward with her sword to deliver a blow. The attack connected at his shin, which was not where she intended, but it left a mark that got his attention. Spinning around he howled at the small wound and now glared at her in anger.

He continued to move his sword down in an attempt to do more harm. This time, his rage fueled his strength. Yet she continued to try to use her focus and blocked each parry successfully, until the ninth one. It was then he managed to slice her shoulder. The weapon was cold, much like the sword that impaled her before, but she was fortunate in that the blade did not stick inside her. She briefly winced in an attempt to ignore the pain and was able to hear a slight chuckle from the warrior soul. She decided to use this to her advantage and taking another surprise move, lunged forward. In less than a second she found momentum to slide between his legs and end up behind him again.

This move surprised him, but his rage held more influence. In reaction, he turned around quickly and the two began to parry their swords again. The crystal blade was strong enough to deflect any blows, but as the pain of Kirakah’s wound made itself known, her own strength began to fade. Grinding her teeth, she attempted to remain focused and hoped her healing abilities would kick in soon. Unfortunately they did not kick in soon enough and using his own blade, he was able to pin her to the ground.

"The Grand Command will not be yours." She hissed between her teeth. Yet he began to feel his confidence shadow hers as he punched her mouth with his free hand. Moaning in pain, Kirakah’s head reeled back. It was now he was going to take the advantage.

Snickering again, he picked up the protector with little effort. Looking at the edge of the clearing, he saw the other souls gather closer. As they looked upon him with awe, he threw her at them with no hesitation.

The souls did not move as she fell on top of some of the bamboo stalks. Yet a few watched her as she appeared to lay lifeless. Her opponent merely turned away from her and parted his lips. The grand command was about to be spoken.

But he did not realize her wound had healed.

Opening her eyes wide, she stood up and stepped away from the souls. Her foe’s back was turned and if she could gather her strength, she knew she had this opportunity. Focusing on her speed, she began to spin around with her sword in both hands. A few of the souls took note of her action and began to mutter amongst themselves, but none of them were able to give adequate warning. Her spinning action managed to give her more momentum. Judging quickly, she turned around and in a series of spins, came closer to the creature. Still having his back turned, she concentrated and used all her force to pierce his back with her blade.

Her sword could cut through anything and knowing this, she continued to focus to thrust the blade through his chest. He howled in agony, both at being defeated and at meeting his real death. As she held her sword in his body, mist began to flow from the wound. He still howled in pain until finally, his cries began to cease. His sword fell first and then his soul, with Kirakah’s blade through it.

The fight lasted longer than she expected and with a grunt she pulled her sword out of his back. Taking a deep breath, she looked out at all the souls who stared at her. They took a few steps closer, most of their heads bowed in respect. The time had come to issue the command.

"Unfortunate souls!" she shouted, her voice heard throughout the clearing and all areas near it, "It is time to issue the command. From this day forth I will demand you do what all souls do…..rest."

"Reeeeeeessssssssttttttttttt." The souls moaned for a moment. It was as if they did not understand at first, but after a few seconds had passed, some of them slowly laid down on the ground.

"Rest." She said again, even though she knew all the souls heard her. One by one they laid upon the ground and said goodbye to their undead lives and rested, as all souls should.

She turned away and blinked a moment. The stress of the battle was great, but the joy of the victory was even greater. She would be excited to see Nekana, but knew she had a duty to the residents of the castle. After sheathing her sword, she walked for a while until she found a window similar to the one that she jumped out of when she left to find the Owloian village. With a smile she called out, "Tirnok! Tirnok!" For a few seconds nothing happened until a familiar voice called out, "Yes I hear you!"

"Then find the window I am looking at and throw me down a rope. The fight is over, your castle is saved."

Her victorious words were well heeded and soon, a rope was thrown to her. After catching it, she scaled the wall until she reached the window. Tirnok and the others were there with a look of relief on their faces. She quickly hoisted herself into the room and nodded in greeting to them.

It was the same room she left and looked the same, so she could tell the other infected Goulons were not able to make it in. After looking around she said, "I was successful in finding out some information about the creatures. They reproduce through a disease, but soon they die. When they do their souls either join a caste of servants or a caste of warriors. Only one warrior can remain standing who will be left to lead them all. I defeated the last warrior, and demanded that the souls remaining find rest."

"Rest?" One of the older men asked, "So it was that easy?"

"After I defeated the last warrior it was. Since I defeated him, I issued the command and they followed it. Most if not all Goulons are resting in peace and after a few days, I suggest you do the same. I cannot guarantee all souls were there to heed my words, but if they weren’t they can be defeated again."

"But will they return?" Tirnok asked, "This seems too good to be true."

"They should not return but I can’t guarantee that. Since they reproduced through a virus well, that virus might never die. But for now your castle is safe. I sense no danger anymore and should there be anymore Goulons or lost souls, I believe I will see them."

One of the older ladies heaved a sigh of relief, "We are forever in your debt."

"Likewise." Said the same man who spoke before, "And as you know, we have some ruling towers of this castle holding no ruling families. While you were gone, we have been discussing that should you be successful, one of the towers should go to you and your mate."

Kirakah smirked a moment, "I’m surprised Tirnok didn’t tell you that I have no mate." She said and looked at him, "You knew that didn’t you?"

"Well, mate or not I think we should still offer it to you." Tirnok said with a smile. "You’ve earned it."

"Ahem." One of the kings replied, "We’ll make that decision but yes…I do have to agree, you have earned it."

The protector smiled and took a step forth. With respect, she bowed her head and replied, "My lords and ladies, I would gladly accept this offer though I must tell you I am a protector, not a ruler. My service extends to this castle, as well as all of Akerion. I will however take the rule of the tower as long as it remain a freehold, a place where other residents of Akerion should come if they seek refuge and it shall also be a storehouse for knowledge. As my studies of this world continues, I will need many places to store my books. If you agree to that, than I will agree to hold claim to the tower but only until I see another one who would be fit to rule in my place."

The rulers looked at each other for a moment. This woman was a strange one, surely anyone would accept rule of the tower instead of deeming it a freehold! Yet with a smile they looked back at her, "You will hold access to the tower and it shall be a freehold. Yet I will tell you that even if you do pass the rule of the tower onto someone else, the building will remain forever erected in your honor."

She smiled and bowed her head again, "That honor I will be grateful for."

"Then when will we hold your Coronation?" Tirnok inquired.

"In time, but for now I need to return to my mentor and tell her of the events that have happened. We will need to record this as another moment in Akerion’s history."

And so Kirakah returned to The Old Troll’s house. Still feeling the Joy of her victory, the two began to transcribe the fantastic events. Her wounds healed with ease and both she and Nekana surmised that by surviving being impaled by the Goulon’s blade, she was now blessed with a gift to see their souls. A priceless gift but hopefully a gift she would not need to use again….but that is another story.