I remember…I remember hunting as a young cub. Always trying to hunt and grow stronger. How did I become of this? Thirst for power? Greedy? Evil? No! It's because I met you!
Opal was a loner. He had to pride and was all alone as a little cub.
I barley even remembered my parents. All I could remember, was roars of pain and agony. I believed they were killed by another pride.
Opal was low to the ground, trying to blend in with his environment. The colors on him made him stand out easily compared to anything else. Before Opal could make a move on the massive fish-like creature, loud footsteps were heard approaching him from behind.
The creature sprinted back into the water and disappeared. Opal spun around and hissed, as two creatures he had never seen before stood before him. (What? What the hell are these things?!) Opal thought. Opal stood up and took a fighting stance.
The much taller creature with longer hair stepped in front of the small one. (The big one must be its leader or something. I'll take this one down fast!)
Opal was surprised to see the creature taking a more aggressive and perfect fighting stance. It held its hands out with the palms facing Opal. The creature, in a flash, kicked Opal in the face and knocked him on his ass.
"Ow ow ow!!!" Opal cried. "You can talk?!" The creature gasped. "And you can understand me?!"
(That's right. Mythical beast can understand and communicate with any language. No matter the species.) Opal thought.
The creature held out its hand. Opal looked at it for a moment and grabbed it to be pulled up. "Thanks a bunch you….pest!" Opal said cheerfully. The creatures eyes twitched. "Excuse me?" It asked.
"Did I say something wrong? I mean, what even are you? You're no creature or prey I've ever seen. You seem difficult to eat, so…you must be a predator?" Opal asked.
The creature smirked and moved a side to show off its young. "This here…is my daughter, Rose. My name is Tisha. We are not from here. We come from a place called earth. Do you possibly know a way to get there?" Tisha asked. "Earth?! Never heard of it!" Opal said as he began to walk away.
"Please, this is urgent!" Rose said in her soft and squishy-like voice. "My mother…we were on a plane that went through some sort of thick mist. The plane crashed and everyone else didn't sur-"
"I don't even know what that place is. What in the gods in a "plan?" Opal asked.
"A machine my people use to fly." Rode spat back.
"Oh, like a thunder bird?" Opal asked Rose while tilting his little head.
"Now, what in the hell is a thunder bird!?" Rose asked.
"It's a really large bird that will transport others if they feel like it or want to." Opal explained. "One flap from its wings, and it's enough to blow all of us away." Opal said with a smile.
Tisha slowly took a knee and began to breath heavily. "Mom!" Rosa gasped.
"I'm okay, Rose. I just need to rest…" Tisha said. Opal walked over to Tisha and lightly touched her on the head.
He could see Tisha giving birth, more people that look like her walking around with large structures he'd never seen before, a massive machine that took off from the ground, and more. "So that's why you went on that machine you call plane. You were going because of your sickness." Opal said.
Ross gave Opal a confused look. "How do you…"
"See your memories? Well, my species can access memories of other living beings. I haven't fully mastered it. Some beast can just be around you and have all of your memories from generations to generations." Opal explained. Opal also took a knee. "The disease you have…what is it? If you don't mind me asking?"
Tisha wiped the blood from her mouth and smiled. "I have muscula dystrophy." Tisha said. Opal studied Tisha's body for a moment. "But you look fine. What does-"
"It's because of the technology my race has. But…it still kills people. I was on the way to a research center…so they could test medicine on me. However, I don't believe we will make it there. I was supposed…to be the cure." Tisha said as she slowly stood back up.
"I see. Come with me back to my cave. You look like you could use the rest." Opal said as he began walking in the opposite direction.
******
Tisha was fast asleep in the cave. Rose had used her red blanket and wrapped it around her mother while she slept. Rose turned around to see Opal on both his knees and looking outside. "Hey, I have a question." Rose began. Opal didn't turn around. He just continued to look outside. "Yes…Rose?"
"You said you could see memories. Opal…why is it that you're alone?" Rose asked. That's when Opal turned his head. "I also said I haven't fully mastered it. I believe…my parents were killed by another pride. The only thing I remember is screams and roars of pain. Why do you ask me such a question?"
"It's just…soon…I won't have my mother. She's all that I've got left in this life. I just didn't know how you coped with it." Rose sighed.
"Do you not have a male figure?"
"No. My father was never in my life. Probably doesn't even know I exist." Rose said softly.
"I think I understand. Tisha…I'll pray to the gods that she'll be fine. As for your thoughts, don't ever say that again. For you…are truly…never alone in this life, Rose." Opal said as he stood up and cracked his neck.
"What do you mean?"
"I'm not sure if you believe in what we beast call "souls", but souls exist everywhere. I believe my parents are with me at all times. Even though I've been alone for many moons…I still feel comfort in a way."
"We have the same words for souls or spirits. I'm…not so sure though. I believe I'll face the same fate as my mother…one day." Rose said as she looked at the ground.
Opal felt something weird with his heart. (What…is this? Why do I feel…so damn unhappy?) Opal thought to himself.
******
Tisha opened her eyes. A large fire kept her body warm in the deadly cold night. She looked past the fire to see her daughter Rose sleep on the floor and Opal on both his knees looking outside. "Opal?" Tisha asked.
Opal turned his head and jumped right up. "I'm not sure what you guys eat. I didn't wanna wake up Rose, so I burnt some Toogles for you two." Opal said while pointing at the fish-like creature. Tisha could tell he had just recently finished cooking them from their warmth. Tisha tried to get up but couldn't. (Damn this body!) Torah thought. Tisha tried again but just couldn't do it. She froze when seeing Opal pick up three toogles by their tails and slicing them up into tiny pieces. Opal walked over and sat down right next to Tisha.
"Opal, you don't have to-"
"Just eat. Eating is an important way to maintain strength and energy. You still have a plane to find, remember?" Opal asked as he held out a piece of the toogle. Tisha opened her mouth and Opal fed it to the woman gently. Opal took the back of his hand and wiped her mouth.
"Opal…I…thank you" Tisha said while crying softly. "Thank you so much." She whispered. "There's no need to say such things. You cry as if you think you're bothering me. You are not, Tish. I've seen many sick creatures, but none with the sickness you have. I know it must be hard to deal with…I am truly sorry that you're suffering so much." Opal said with a soft voice.
"No. I'm just…I'm just emotional is all. I'm okay, really. You're the one who's been alone for so so long. I'm sorry." Tisha responded. "No need to be. Solitude is best for a species in my opinion." Opal said.
Tisha looked up at him and smirked. "I have to disagree with you, Opal. You see, we humans…we work best when together. But the world I come from…there's always fighting and violence." Tisha sighed.
"Explain what you mean."
"Throughout all of our history, humans have always been against each other. We've also been able to do great things with each other's help. Where I'm from, you have people who will judge you based off of your skin, gender, history, and more. We all may live together, but when it comes to different nations helping one another to better the world…it just never happens. They spend all of their money and time on…things such as weapons of mass destruction and weapons to fight back against Akies." Tisha explained.
"AKIES?!" Opal gasped.
"You know about-"
"Ahaha! Do I know?! Every beast knows!! Akies. That's the race who defeated the very first mythical beast king in history!" Opal said as he moved closer to Tisha. "The legendary king: Mandla. Mandla was created by the very first pride in our race's history. Mandla was created for one purpose and one purpose alone…to fight off the akies that tried to take this part of the world. Mandla fought off hundreds of Akies who tried to take over. It was said he had the strength to rip apart the whole universe." Opal explained. "He sounds powerful…almost scary." Tisha said as she tried to sit up.
"You bet!"
"How…was Mandla defeated?"
"That's one thing…we beast don't know. Not a single beast has been able to remember that deep into our history. The most recent king was probably….a little after Mandla's defeat which was more than 1 billion years ago. The second king: Claw, was defeated by what we call the great guardian of this world or universe."
"What's that? A powerful being?"
"A guardian is a powerful being that has the power to possibly destroy all of creation itself. That and many more powers. A gaurdian is a chosen one that Mandla foretold in his great story. It is said that the guardian was created by this ancient being called: "the one." The one is one of many beings who managed to breakthrough the emptiness of a nothingness reality. His story has been told through generations of beast. In the story, it is told that a great warrior in black will defeat the 2nd king after him. Once Claw was defeated by a powerful akie, that's when our race knew…the gaurdian had finally arrived. And I heard it wasn't even a close battle. Claw was defeated rather easily by the gaurdian."
"If all of this happened billions or even more years ago, do you guys still believe the gaurdian is still alive?"
Opal paused looked around. "I've been roaming these lands for many moons alone. I've heard stories from other beast when roaming at night…there's a special mission going on somewhere in this universe. A mission where beast are pretending to be another race amongst their higher-ups." Opal explained.
"Huh? So you're saying my world has beast on it?"
"Possibly…but there are so many other places in this universe. And why do you keep saying "your world?" There's only one world and it's the size of the universe." Opal said.
Tisha bursted out into a loud laughter. "Huh? What's so funny?" Opal asked, tilting his head to the side.
"It's just…you said this world is the size of the universe? Ahahah!" Tisha laughed. "Well, yeah. How else do you think you ended up here?" Opal asked.
"A portal. I refuse to believe the government has been lying to us, to make everyone believe earth is only what we've been told. I mean, that's crazy…right?"
"No. I'm serious. There are no other planets…just this one. This planet is the size of the universe and there are nine more that circle around one massive sun. I believe earth…exist. I also believe you were simply raised on a island in a much larger world." Opal explained.
Tisha stopped laughing and just looked up at the cave wall. "Life really is…interesting."
"Do not let it bother you. There's still a chance we can possibly find earth. That way…you and your cub can get home." Opal said. "If you think so." Tisha replied.
"Tish…I meant to ask you earlier, but that fighting technique you used on me…is that how humans fight?" Opal asked, remembering how Tisha knocked him down with ease.
"It's one way we fight. I was a master and taught many people."
"Oh? Who taught you then? Everything has a origin in this reality."
"…my lover…taught me."
Opal remembered what Rose said. (My father probably doesn't even know I exist).
"I understand. Sorry for bringing it up, Tish."
"No need to apologize. Would you…like me to teach you the basics?"
Tisha couldn't see it, but Opal's eyes widened and a little smile went across his face.
"Please." Opal sighed with relief.
"I'll do it first thing in the morning then." Tish smiled. "Sounds good." Opal replied. The two sat in silence for a while. Opal walked back over to the edge of the cave and sat on both of his knees again. Both his arms resting on his thighs. He could hear sniffing behind him. Opal turned again to see Tisha crying softly.
"One last thing Opal. Are you…are you scared of dying?" Tisha asked. Opal hesitated for a moment. "I…do not fear death. I believe death isn't the end, but only the beginning. I just wouldn't be here physically is all. What about you, Tish?"
"I couldn't tell you…just how scared I am, Opal. I believe in god. I've prayed and prayed. But I'm getting worse…and…and I just don't know if I did enough. I'm not ready…I'm not ready to leave my baby." Tisha whimpered while looking at Rose sleep.
"Tish…I promise you'll be fine. You must think positive at all times. No matter the circumstances."
Opal and Tisha talked and talked all night. The two noticed the sun rising in the distance behind the great field.
"Get some rest, Opal. I'll keep watch until you wake." Tisha said.
"Very well." Opal replied. Opal closed his eyes while sitting up and drifted off to sleep.
******
"You're strong…my cub….Please, do your best." A soft voice whispered.
*****
Opal jolted awake. He looked around to see Rose playing in a field of green flowers in the purple grass. Tisha looked over to see Opal. "About time you woke." Tisha sighed. "You ready for some small training, Opal?"
"Huh?"
"We can start your training." Tisha replied.
******
Opal threw his legs and fist at Tish. Tish easily avoided each strike and knocked Opal down over and over again. This went on until night.
"Okay…that's enough for today." Tish said as she turned her back.
"Not yet." Opal said, struggling to stand up. "Don't walk away, Tish. I'm only getting started!" Opal yelled out.
"No." Tish whispered softly. Tish walked over and stood over the beast. She held out her hand and lightly patted Opal on the head. "You did great for your first time. Tomorrow I believe you'll do even better." Tish said with a smile.
(What is she talking about? Is she just saying that to make me feel better!? Fine, I'll play along-)
"I bet you're thinking how I know. It's because…you have rather unusual energy that's just flowing around your body. I'm not sure what that stuff is, but…in just a few days of training…you're gonna be a problem."
"Wait, you can actually see this?!" Opal gasped. (Just what the hell is with Tish?! No other creatures besides beast and just MAYBE a few more know about aura! Let alone even be able to see it. Can her species utilize aura too? Can they see it? No…no…Rose would've pointed it out by now. What's with Tish!?)
Opal almost staggered backwards. "Tish…how can you see that?" Opal asked.
Tish took a deep breath and slowly shaked her head. "I'm going to go get some rest. Goodnight, Opal."
******
Opal woke up early in the morning with a strong and powerful odor coming from the forest. Opal jolted up and looked around in panic. (This smell…a beast in near!)
Without saying anything to Rose or Tish who were sleeping, Opal slipped out of the cave and ran into the direction of the smell.
(It's headed this way! I have to…I have to stop them before they catch the scent of Tish and Rose!)
Opal ran and ran. Pushing through the thick grass and eventually jumping out into an open field. Opal crouched low and lifted his head to see three female mythical beast slowly walking in his direction.
One had light brown skin with brown rocks all throughout her body, with brown eyes that glowed in the darkness, and a skinny build.
The other had light green skin, with long beautiful green hair that dragged across the blue grass, green eyes, and long green claws.
The other beast was dark blue, with green locs that dropped to her waist, bright blue eyes, a material that looked to be sae weed covering her bottom half, and a silver necklace.
The brown one stopped in her track and lifted her head, as if she was smelling something. (She can sniff me out from this distance?!) Opal thought.
The brown beast looked directly into Opal's direction. "Little cub…you may step out. We aren't here for you." The brown one reassured. Opal's skin was lighting up his area anyways. Opal stood up and slowly locked eyes with the beast. "Hello. My name is Ground. This is my sister, Blade. And this is my other sister, Ocean.
"My name is Opal."
Ocean tilted her head slightly. "How come I don't sense a marking on you? Are you…alone?" Ocean asked while staring directly into Opal's eyes.
"I have a pride. I was simply out hunting." Opal lied.
Blade picked up a piece of the grass and transformed it into a long blade. Like a sword or knife. Blade smiled at Opal. "Now why would you go hunting at night? Just look at your skin, Opal." Blade said. "I'm skilled enough to catch my prey while being noticed." Opal replied confidently.
Ground smirked at Opal. She gently smacked her teeth. Ocean and Blade immediately walked away from Ground, starting to circle Opal. "Opal…I feel as though there's something you're not telling me. Either you tell me…or I'm gonna eat you." Ground chuckled.
Opal cracked his neck and stretched his arms. Opal quickly slammed his right foot into the ground, causing his opal aura to shoot out from the ground like lava erupting from a volcano. Opal held out his left arm, his palm facing Ground and his right arm tucked away with a tight fist.
"Look sister! His memories…I can see it…that beautiful scent that's filling the air." Ocean gasped.
(Damn. These are experienced hunters!) Opal thought. "If you three move even another inch, I'll have no choice but to defend my home."
The three beast paused and looked at Ground. Ground smiled at Opal and lightly bowed her head. "A brave warrior indeed. Kill him." She ordered.
Blade used the grass blade and leaped at Opal. Ocean slammed her hands together and shot a jet stream of water at Opal. Opal took a deep breath and smiled. Opal's aura alone blocked their attacks. "What?!" Blade gasped as he blade wouldn't past his aura. Ocean watched as her water beam didn't make contact with Opal. Opal used his left palm to twist his hand underneath Blade's wrist. He grabbed it and tossed the beast into a nearby tree. The tree collapsed on top of the beast. Opal turned his attention towards Ocean. (Damn it. If only I had access to more water, I could kill this cub. Why is he so strong?!)
Ocean made a hang sign, as powerful jaws appeared over her head. "Water attack: Flowing jaws!"
The jaw leaped at Opal. Opal slammed his foot into the ground again, but this time her uttered the words: "Burst canon…Continental-level!"
"Oh." Ocean whispered. In that moment, Ocean knew Opal was no ordinary cub. (I only heard it in legend…but…there are some mythical beast who are born with unbelievable powers. These beast are the chosen ones who'll serve the next king. Is Opal…)
Ocean formed a giant water ball that surrounded herself. The massive blast of energy unleashed on the area and completely destroyed everything behind her, leaving a trail of dust and ruin. The two attacks clashed together, creating a loud and powerful explosion that woke Tish and Rose from their sleeps. "What was that?" Rose asked.
Tish looked around quickly and gasped. "Opal!"
******
Ground appeared behind Opal. Her hand was covered in a hard material from the ground. Opal slapped her hand away and landed a punch to her throat. Ground stumbled and roared with anger. She grabbed Opal by the head and tossed him to the ground. "You little…pathetic excuse of a beast!" Ground wrapped her hand around Opal's neck and began to squeeze.
"I'm going to make sure you meet your familiy again, Opal. You tried your best…now rest." Ground said as she tightened grip. Just as Opal was about to give in and accept defeat, he could hear a familiar voice from the dark.
"You've got more fight than that, Opal. Why are you holding back on the things trying to kill you?" Tish asked.
Ground let go of Opal. She stood over the cub and turned her back on him to face Tish. Tish seemed to be a little motr frail than usual. "N-no…Tish…why are you-"
"I'm not letting someone bully anyone….from our pride."
Opal's eyes widened. He could remember what he and Tish talked about during training.
*****
"Tell me, Tish. How will you and Rose return home?"
Tish closed her eyes and smirked. "I'll be honest with you, Opal. I…don't think I'll even be able to walk in a few days. I also have no plan or even a way of direction to know how to get home. We are stuck."
Opal felt almost sick in that very moment. "N…no, that's not right or fair! I'll figure out something! I'll find a way for-"
Tish placed her hand on Opal's face. She slowly slid it down the right side of his face and held her hand there. Tish smiled and said:
"You've done more than enough…for me and my daughter. I know I haven't even known you for two full days, but I truly…sense the kindness that's in your heart. Thank you for allowing me and my daughter to stay. You've saved our lives…I truly thank you for that. You remind me….of my son in a way. Always willing to help others and very cunning," Tish paused for a while and just looked at Opal. A vision of a tall, powerful looking man took Opal's place. "Soon Opal….im going to die. I want…no, I need you…to promise me that you'll look after Rose when my time comes, okay?"
"I promise." Opal said.
"Thank you, my friend."
"No, we are more, Tish. You're my pride now. Pride means family. Family is-"
"A loving, supporting unit….where members feel safe." Tish said.
"Indeed. I didn't know your kind knew of such a thing."
"Of course we do. Humans and mythical beast…just may be more alike than you think, Opal."
Tish removed her hand and looked up at the sky once again. "Thank you. You're truly…a kind and beautiful cub."
******
(My sweet boy…you have to live…live and start your own pride. Please, for me…you have to survive, you're a chosen cub!) a voice echoed in Opal's head.
Opal jumped up and slammed his foot into the ground, letting his aura cover the entire area. Ground still didn't turn to face him. "Ocean…kill him quickly. I…just found ourselves a trophy for our pride.
While Ocean fought Opal, Tish stood there alone and quietly. Ground and Blade circled the woman. "I don't believe I've ever seen you before. You sure aren't a beast. Let's have a look into those memories."
"Oh, my! This is earth?! I've only heard stories of this place! This is the island where our great visions went. Amazing!!" Ground laughed.
Behind Tish, was Blade sharpening her piece of long grass. Tish then focused back on Ground. "You know the two of you can't win. It doesn't matter what happens to me, the results will all be the same."
"Ground, the food is talking too much. Can I attack now or what?" Blade asked in an annoyed tone.
"You're correct. I believe this one has a rather annoying voice. Well, then…are you ready to die, Tish?" Ground asked with a smirk on her face.
A lighting strike struck a nearby tree, as heavy rain began to pour from the sky. (Even in my current weakened state…I have a chance at winning. If I were healthy, these beast would die in one strike.)
"I'm going to give you two one last chance to walk away…before I'm forced to defend myself…and take two beautiful lives." Tish warned.
"I can tell that you were a well respected and feared warrior when you were on earth….from the memories. Here…you are nothing more than prey. Waiting to be eaten by someone like me. You're going to die here, Tish. Might as well let me feast, right? I'll even…spar Rose's life."
In less than a second, Blade's arm was missing from her body. Blood gushed out from the opening. (When did she-)
Ground didn't even have time to think, Tish had jammed Blade's sharp arm into Ground's stomach. Ground tried to grab Tish, but Tish had already vanished into the thick and dark forest.
Blade had finally processed what just happened. She lifted her head, only to see a tree headed towards her. Blade flicked her left arm, turning it into a sharp grass blade. She sliced the tree directly in the middle. Tish was on the other end of the tree, flying at Blade and landing a devistating knee that cracked Blade's jaw.
Blade's feet left the ground, but Tish quickly grabbed her by the foot and slammed her into the ground. Tish immediately spun around to see Ground flying at her with her claws out.
Tish weaved the swip of the beast's hand and countered with a backhand to her face. Tish immediately grabbed Ground by the face and tossed her across the forest.
(Why…no…this isn't right! I saw the memories! Tish is sick..a sick…weak woman! I don't see any memories of training…from hundreds of years ago! This woman…she's on a whole other level!!)
Ground used her powers to create a powerful mud-like wall to stop her body. She crashed through the wall and flipped herself to land on her two legs.
(She'll come…from behind!) Ground had anticipated an attack from the back side, however…Tish already knew what the beast would think. Tish instead…attacked-
(Above!!) Ground thought. Ground looked up and blocked the incoming leg. Ground managed to block the kick, but the impact from the block shattered both the beast's legs.
"RAAAHHHH!!!" Ground screamed in pain. Tish landed softly on the ground and stood over the beast. "I'm willing…to let you walk away. Your pride….needs you." Tish said.
Ground ignored Tish and rolled over to try and crawl away. "S-screw you! Wait until our alpha hears about this! About you and that…stupid cub. He is going to devour every last one of you! He will stop at nothing to make sure Rose gets tortured to death-"
Tish stomped on the beast's head…killing Ground immediately. Blace trampled in fear, but quickly got a hold of herself.
"How is this possible? Just what…what are you, woman?!"
"I…am one of the ten super soldiers of earth. Latisha Bloodsworth. I didn't want to do this to you people…not in the slightest. Me and my daughter are simply…lost in your world. I don't enjoy killing. I enjoy only growing stronger and being a better person every day." Tish explained.
(Perhaps the visions were right. The human race is capable of creating such powerful warriors like Tish? Who's the say in one hundred….maybe even one-thousand years from now, Akies and her race will grow in power. Especially if he comes around at some point. For he…will be the threat Obsidian dreamed of. The cub…the cub's aura…even at his age, rivals Obsidian's aura. Opal…is going to be a problem!)
Blade's body began to tremble in fear. Opal slowly walked beside her, dragging Ocean behind him. His aura immediately made the beast kneel before him. (This…feeling. It's…Opal is…)
"Stop thinking so loud. It's annoying me, Blade." Opal said in a calm voice. The cub stopped dragging Ocean and tossed her at Blade's feet.
Opal looked at Tish and smacked his lips. "Tish…why have you been dishonest to me?"
Tish gave Opal a confused look on her face. "Just what are you-"
"You…you claim to have crashed in plane…and wandered here. But that's not the whole truth!" Opal said.
"You have access to the memory ability….dont you?" Tish asked while slowly putting her head down.
The rain poured down more, as Opal's skin lighted up the area. "Tish…you went on the plane…for two reasons. Not just for the medicine. Tell me!"
There was a long pause as Tish finally opened her mouth. "I was sent by the world leaders. I've been taking medicine the public didn't even know about. Medicine that's been keeping me alive for years. After years and years went by…I was told there was possibly even more of this great medicine. A more natural place to find it. I was given orders by my leaders to search an unknown land. A land where no human has ever stepped foot. We received reports of an unknown object in the middle of the Bermuda Triangle. Opal…I truly had no intention of coming here on that plane, only to observe to see how I can infiltrate it. Rose and others were on the plane, but the plane lost control and me and her ended up here. You have to believe-"
"Believe you?…observe?" Opal grabbed his heart area, squeezing his skin tightly in his arm. "THATS NOT ALL!! YOU'RE SKIPPING THE PART ABOUT YOU KILLING MY PARENTS!!!" Opal roared.
Tish'a eyes widened. Tish immediately thought about the two mythical beast she had harmed. Tish tried to walk towards Opal, but Opal stepped back. "You…you're the one who killed them! Why?! They didn't even do anything to you!! Why did you hurt them?! Why did you take my world from me?!" Opal yelled as he fell to his knees. A stream of tears ran down the beast's face. "What the hell is this water?!" Opal asked, aggressively wiping his face.
In that moment, Tish had already used both her hands to wipe the tears from Opal's face. "I was scared and confused on the whole situation. But I've come to learn more of this world…and that not all beast are bad. Opal…I," Tish's eyes began to also water up. "I'm so sorry. I had no idea that those many months ago, those were your parents. I'm sorry, Opal. Forgive me!!" Tish said as she lowered her head. Blade reached over and grabbed a piece of grass. Opal quickly turned around and shot a tiny beam of energy through the beast's head, killing her immediately. "Tish…I'm angry…and I want to fight you, but I know you'll kill me…so what do I do? I've come to have…a strange feeling towards you. But…I'm so angry…I'm so angry I could just rip a mountain right from the ground if I wanted!" Opal said as he bit his lips tightly. "I would never hurt you! Take it out on me, Opal. I can take it. I truly do…care for you. Like my own son."
Ocean was too scared to move. She could only listen and watch as the two were slowly getting comfortable together again. "Tish…can you hold me? That is all I ask….i…I want to…I want to-"
Tish pulled Opal in tightly. "It's okay Opal….its okay to show feeling. To show how you feel. Let it all out. It's okay….im here for you…I'm here."
The entire area shaked violently as Opal tried to hide his emotions. "Let it out, Opal. It's okay…to be sad and angry. That negative energy will only affect your health. It's okay…to show how your feeling."
******
1month later…..
Tish sat up and sat back against a rock. She watched as Opal sat in the great open field with the sun shining down and hitting against his black skin. "Opal…is a pretty being the more I look at him." Rose said as she sat down next to Tish and gave her some water. "Ahaha. Yeah, I guess you're right. It's been…somewhat of a pleasure to watch the two of you grow these past few weeks." Tish said as she rubbed her fingers through Rose's hair. "Yeah, but…he's been pretty quiet since that day, huh?"
"Yeah. Opal didn't cry or anything…it was silent rage. I could feel it. Even now…I since love is here, but…I also since rage." Tish said. "Will you help me up, daughter?"
"Yes,ma'am."
"OPAL!!" Tish yelled out, her voice reaching Opal's ears, making him spin around. "Down for some more training? It's been what? A month since we fought? I'd like to test your strength." Tish said as she removed her long fur jacket.
"As you wish." Opal replied.
"Mom, are you sure? You've…you've physically have gotten a lot-"
"Nonsense. Opal, even at his current level…is still no match for someone like me." Tish said as she walked towards Opal in the great giant field.
"You ready?" Tish asked as she took her fighting stance.
"Mhm."
Opal replied as he surrounded his fist with aura.
As the two began fighting, Rose sat down at the entrance of the cave opening and simply looked into the bright sun. (I know we don't know where to go, but I could really…kill to hold some roses. Eat at a big campfire. Hug the people I love. To sit back on the roof of my house and watch the beautiful clouds. I really do…miss home.) Rose had tears in her eyes as she looked back down to see Opal on the ground with Tish standing over him. "You've improved greatly. And in only a month of training….you're going to be a splendid fighter in a year…maybe even a few more months!" Tish said as she held out her hand to help Opal up.
"Tsk." Opal slapped her hand away and stood up on his own. "No matter what I do…I never can surpass you, Tish." Opal said as he turned his back.
"That's your goal? To surpass me?"
"Yes. With someone of your power…you're a walking predator on this land and a few lands beyond this. You'll do well until you reach the second zone."
"Second zone?"
"We mythical beast…aren't the strongest kind out here. There are other, more powerful and dangerous creatures that exist beyond this area of the world. Someone like me…wound not last very long." Opal said. "But…if I managed to ever surpass you, I would have the confidence to go to that land and find…a home."
Tish rubbed her hand across the head of Opal. "Stop that!" Opal said as Tish laughed. "Ahh…a family, huh? A home? I could've sworn…you viewed us as your home?" Tish asked as her smile disappeared. "Tish, I didn't mean-"
"No, it's okay! I understand. After all…we aren't the same. There's no way human an beast can live amongst each other. We have different cultures, beliefs, and characteristics. Let's go. I'm starting to get weak again and need you to carry me." Tish said as Opal got up and carried her back to the cave.
The next day…..
Rose was out early in the morning, picking flowers within the thick forest. Suddenly, she heard a twig snap behind her. "Opal?"
Nothing but soft wind ran through her ears. "Opal? Are you messing with me again?" Rose asked.
Opal's ears twitched, as he woke up from his sleep and stretched out his arms. He could see three shadows walking towards the cave. Opal stood up straight and immediately looked around. "ROSE!!!" Opal roared, waking up Tish from her sleep. Opal ran out of the cave and directly towards the three shadows, leaving a trail of aura behind him on the field. Opal slid across the ground and stopped in front of a tall, muscular, and black mythical beast with bright green eyes. Beside him was a blond woman with short hair, claws, and blue-like eyes. In the black one's hands were Rose, who was knocked out and bleeding from the head.
"Ahh…you must be Opal. The cub I've heard about." The big beast said. "My name is Obsidian. Leader of the Southpaw Pride." Obsidian said.
"Give her back." Opal growled. "Watch your tone, cub." The female beast said. "It's okay, Crystal. Give him the creature."
Crystal glared at Opal and tossed Rose at him. Opal caught Rose and looked at the wound that was on her head. "Come out, Ocean." Obsidian said as th blue beast emerged behind him. "You…" Opal growled. "This is the cub?" Obsidian asked her. "Yes. He is…far from normal."
"I see. Opal, do you know about the stories foretold throughout the mystical beast history? I'm sure…you're aware of the chosen few who are born by destiny to serve the new king soon to be born. I have reason to believe…that you are that chosen cub. Destined for great power and loyalty to the new majesty."
"What's your point?" Opal asked.
"The point…is that you want to serve the king, yes?"
"….if I'm truly blessed and born with unique power, then I won't hesitate to serve. But, I've-"
"I knew it." Crystal said as she walked towards Opal. "STOP!" Obsidian ordered the beast, making her body shake with his voice. Obsidian pointed past Opal and towards the cave. "Is it because…of these humans? Why would you ever…question the position or role of being in our history? Of serving the new king?"
"….my pride." Opal said softly.
"NONSENSE!! Those…those things aren't your pride!!" Crystal laughed. "You all aren't even the same species! Hell, they don't even belong here! Obsidian…I say we kill the girl and Tish. Right here! Right now! Him doing this will surely cause bad luck and future death amongst our people. Someone of his caliber and potential need to be nurtured; taught by his own people." Crystal said as she released her claws.
"Opal….face your destiny. I'm aware you barely even have contact with beast…but you even know how important this is. The thing that killed your parents, is sleeping in that cave. Being how important you are…I simply…won't allow you to refuse. If you come with us, we will spare the child and her." Obsidian said.
"She's too sick to take care of her daughter. Or do you simply ignore that memory?" Opal asked as he glared at Obsidian. "Two lives for possibly the whole universe. They'll manage. What exactly is this emotion? It's not normal…it's rather…unnatural." Obsidian folded his arms and tilted his head. "They've changed him. Crystal…..kill them."
"With pleasure!" Crystal laughed as she swiped her hand across her face, a white line appeared before Opal, causing the beast to duck down. The line sliced through the cave. "She's toast-"
"Was that meant for me?" Tish whispered in Crystal's ear. "Aauughhh!!!" Tish punched Crystal across the field, making her roll around the ground before she used her claws and stopped herself. "What power." Crystal purred.
"Opal, take Rose and get out of here." Tish said as she stood next to Obsidian. Obsidian ignored Tish and looked straight ahead. "What are you doing, Crystal? How long are you gonna play with her? Kill this woman…NOW!" Obsidian ordered Crystal.
"Tsk..SHUT UP!!!" Crystal roared as he slash increased in size and power. Opal quickly grabbed Rose and flew away.
Obsidian stood there and turned his head to face Tisha. (What will she do? Avoid the slash?)
Tish stood beside Obsidian, as their aura's blocked the slash. In that moment, his eyes widened with an intrigued look. "Hmph!" Tish chuckled as she punch Obsidian, knocking the beast back only a few inches. "Nice strike. Allow me to show you the power of mythical beats, Tish!" Obsidian roared.
Opal flew across the massive forest and eventually found a nearby area near a river. "O…Opal…"
Opal stopped and quincly put Rose on the ground. "My mom….Where's my mom?"
"She told me to get you out of there. Don't worry, I'm gonna go on back and help her!" Opal said as he looked around and tried to find something to hide Rose.
"Opal, please, don't…don't leave her….please. Save her."
As Opal was looking around, Tish's words echoed in his mind. (If something ever where to happen to me…please, take care of Rose.)
(Opal….save my mom.)
"Rose…your mother…would want me at your side. I think I'll honor that wish-"
"NO!! Opal, I'll be fine, please…go help her! I'll be okay…I promise." Rose said. Opal took a knee and leaned in towards Rose.
"Rose…are you sure-"
Rose sat up and wrapped her arms around Opal, hugging him tightly. (What's…this? This feeling?)
"Please…go be at her side. Help her…defeat them. You're…part of my pride, Opal."
******
"This all you've got?!" Crystal laughed as she kicked Tish back. Before Tish could react, Ocean landed a powerful punch to the back of Tish's head. Tish hit the ground and immediately rolled over to avoid Obsidian's knee.
Tish flipped her body and landed straight up. She laughed as the three beast surrounded her. "What's so funny, Tish?" Crystal asked.
"You three…having to jump a sick lady like me. It's pathetic! If…if I were healthy…I'd kill you lot quickly…" Tish wheezed.
"That may be true…we beast usually will show mercy to someone, but in your case, you're stopping the chosen cub from completing his destiny-"
"His what?" Tish asked as he long blond hair hanged over her face. Tish imagined a part filled with children, her and a little boy walking around a park with her pregnant self. "Hehe…what is it you said, Rogue? You…you like the rose flowers? Heh…that's a nice name. Rose. Yeah, that's…beautiful." Tish mumbled underneath her breathe.
Obsidian lowered his arm and glared at the woman. "Her mind…is already falling apart. No more harm will come to this woman. Let her rest easy-"
"Ultimate attack!!"
The three beast were immediately caught off guard. "I got it." Crystal said, as a line sliced off Tish's arm. Tish fell to her knees; just began to look up at the sky. "Even when having such a mind…she still found the strength and resolve to attack the three of us? What amazing willpower and resilience." Obsidian complemented.
Tish could see Opal in the air flying towards her. Tish held out of other arm and reached out. (Opal….I….didn't even get the chance to say that I love you….)
Tish's head was sliced clean off from a slash by Crystal. Tish's body fell to the ground lifeless.
"TISH!!!!" Opal roared, his aura rising. Obsidian, Crystal, and Ocean all turned their heads. "We're through here." Obsidian said.
"Huh?! Why's that? This was just starting to get good, Obsidian!" Crystal complained. "That's enough, Crystal. Besides…we've achieved what we wanted." Obsidian explained as Opal landed near Tish's body and began holding it in his arms. "Tish….wake up….wake up!!" Opal said as tears were pouring down his face.
(What's that? Water from his face?) Ocean thought as Obsidian lifted from the ground. "Go to the child, Opal. Forgive me…for putting that monster on her." Obsidian said as the three beat teleported away.
Opal immediately looked into the direction of Rose and took off flying at full speed.
******
Rain began to pour as Opal flew in the sky, looking down trying to find Rose. Opal locked his eyes on a pool of blood, seeing his own reflection in the bloody ground. Opal began to breathe rapidly as he landed and could see it.
Rose's body had been completely dismembered, her body wasn't in one piece, by spreaded across the area. Opal crashed to the ground, looking at the ripped paper body while in the pool of blood.
(Protect Rose.)
(Please, Opal….save her.)
Opal put both his hands on his head, and began to cry. Cries that could be heard from miles away.
(This world is the size of the universe? Ahh….life really is interesting.)
(Opal, look what I found!!)
(That's right…) Opal thought.
(Protect.)
(Save.)
(If I had only…listened…Rose would still….still-)
(Help.)
(My heart….)
(Help.)
(My being.)
(Help.)
(My….pride is gone!)
...…
...…..
...
.....
...…
...….
"RAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAUUUUUUUUUUUUUGGGGGGGGGGGHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!"
******
2 days later…..
The southpaw pride's home. There were a total of 40,000 beast who lived within this pride. One of the largest prides throughout the lands of what is called: "The beast lands" of the beyond.
It was like a massive kingdom or fortress if you would say. Three large walls made of a stone-like substance, each wall containing thousands of buildings, sculptures, and houses made of a thick brown clay. In the middle of everything…was what is called "the leader's den". This is where the strongest beast amongst their pride reside.
Filled with rage and sadness, one legendary cub was going to bring down his claws upon the Southpaw pride….
The sky clear…and beautiful purple grass slid across Opal's legs as he slowly walked towards the Southpaw pride's fortress.
One beast could see Opal walking alone towards the pride. The beast let out a loud roar that reached Obsidian's ears. "Is he here?" A female beast asked Obsidian. "Yes. All is fine…my daughter." Obsidian looked to his right. Crystal gave him a nod and headed towards Opal. "No need to worry, daughter. It's time…that our leader has arrived." Obsidian told the female beast.
"Who goes there?!" The beast roared, Opal…covered in dry blood, continued to walk towards the pride with no response. "Last warning." The beast said as he held out his hand, preparing to shoot a beam of energy at Opal. Opal lifted his head and locked eyes with the beast.
(This feeling….why is my heart racing-)
Opal had already punched through the beast's body, grabbing and ripping out his heart.
Multiple beast that were on top of the first wall immediately ran at Opal. Opal slammed his foot down, having his palms face out, and a strong stance. "What's this fighting style?!"
"I've never seen such nonsense!" A couple of beast laughed as they began attacking Opal. Opal sliced through them like butter, using his hands. Opal immediately looked left to see a group of 20 beast all shooting beams of energy at him.
With a fraction of a second, Opal had reached them and removed each of their heads. Opal looked down at the massive buildings, sculptures, and beast that were inside of the first wall. Opal held out both his hand and floated above everyone.
"Mother, what's that?" A beast asked as the mother looked up in horror. "Get down-"
"Plasma cannon." Opal said. The large blast wiped everyone and everything out within the blink of an eye. The first wall was no more.
Opal looked ahead and flew to the second wall, this wall had much more beast. "He's coming this way! Release the Dulba!!" A mythical beast yelled. Suddenly, a massive flying creature flew at Opal. It opened its large mouth and clamped down on Opal, but Opal didn't even flinch. "What-"
Opal exploded the creature from the inside and flew down towards the second wall. "Attack!!!" The beats roared, as thousands emerged and covered the sky.
Opal landed on the wall and slaughtered each beast one by one, using no aura, but his hands and combat skills.
"A-a monster!! This cub is a monster!!" A female beast cried as Opal looked below from the second wall. Opal held out his hand once again, "plasma canon…con-"
"You surely….have done enough damage, cub." Crystal said as Opal turned around to see the blond headed beast.
The blood, organs, and other body parts filled the top of the massive wall, leaking into the fortress from above. "Crystal." Opal said as he moved his arm towards her. "Plasma canon-"
Suddenly, a wall of flames emerged between the two. "Amber!! Who told you to intervene?!" Crystal hissed as Amber emerged through the flames and began attacking Opal. Opal dodged and avoided each strike coming from Amber and Crystal combined. (He moves well. Almost…faster than Tish. How? In only two days?) Crystal thought as she sent out multiple slashes. Opal quickly grabbed Amber by her hair and tossed her at the slashes. (Damn!) Crystal thought as she quickly deactivated her slashes, allowing Opal to find the opening he needed and punched Crystal in her stomach.
"Diiieeee!!!!" A large beast yelled from behind Opal. Without turning around, Opal uses his energy to choke Pearl out and lift him into the air. "I'm going to kill you all. The southpaw pride is no more." Opal said as a total of 15 thousand fighters emerged from the pride and flew towards Opal.
******
Outside of the leaders den, Obsidian could hear the screams and explosions from behind the thick walls. Obsidian cleaned his hooves and walked towards the door once it grew silent outside.
"Hmph!"
Before Obsidian could reach the door, Opal had kicked the door down, piercing Obsidian's body immediately with his foot. Obsidian barfed up a large amount of blood, but was smiling.
Opal removed his foot from the beast and watched as Obsidian slowly approached a massive chair. "Opal….let me show you why it's important." Obsidian said as he healed his wounds.
Opal tilted his head without saying a response. "I had a vision…a vision that this would happen if I had those two humans killed. This is what leads to the great king's arrival! Let me guess, you weren't able to kill my leader's den soldiers were you?"
"….nah." Opal replied.
"How else would I know that, Opal? Sit down on this chair, and you'll know the truth. Only positive beings with no evil in their heart…can sit on this chair."
"And you managed to be able to sit on it? How's that? You…saw this whole thing coming, but didn't bother to save 90% of your pride? Everyone that you served and tried to protect…is dead. I killed them all. You knew this would happen, so why is it…you can still sit in the chair of heartmenship?!" Opal asked.
"Ahh…so you can also read my memories. Fascinating-"
"ANSWER ME!!! You…you killed them! You killed my pride!! My home!!! My…my family!" Opal said as he fell to his knees. "My…my heart aches, Obsidian. Being around the humans…has changed me. Taught me things. Those two…those two meant the whole world to me!! And you just take that away?! You have no right to sit on the throne!!" Opal yelled as his aura began to rise.
"Opal…sit down and you will see…that this was destined to happen." Obsidian said. Obsidian lowered his body and kneeled. "Opal, forgive me for taking such precious people out of your life, but please, sit down and see…what was destined to happen." Obsidian said.
"Stand. We're going outside and fighting! Fight me, Obsidian!! I came all this way…traveled this far….to fight!! Not for you to kneel in submission!!! STAND!!!!" Opal roared with tears falling from his eyes. "If I'm wrong, then we shall fight-"
Opal stormed past Obsidian and sat down in the giant chair. Immediately, a surge of energy shot through Opal's body, turning his eyes white and lifting his head into the air.
******
Opal floated alone in space. The cold…emptiness of space. (Where…am I?) Opal thought, as the cub opened his eyes and let them wander.
"ARISE….CHOSEN CUB OF THE MYTHICAL BEAST, FULL MOON ERA." A loud and giants voice called out from the deep depths of space.
"W-who's there?!" Opal roared.
"SO MUCH SADNESS AND ANGER FILL YOUR HEART, CUB. SUCH EMOTIONS AREN'T EVEN SUPPOSED TO BE WITHIN YOU."
"NOW, NOW….WE DO KNOW HE WAS AMONGST THAT PITIFUL HUMAN RACE!" Another deep voice said.
Opal looked around to see ten giant beings, too dark to see, but could see their shadows looking down upon him.
Ten beings that looked as though they were walking in space…walking on a floor below that Opal didn't know existed.
"You…you guys aren't beast. What exactly are you?! Who are you?!"
"IT DOES NOT MATTER WHO OR WHAT WE ARE."
"MHM."
"WHAT MATTERS IS THAT THE GREAT CHOSEN CUB COMPLETE HIS ROLE."
"YES, ROLE!"
"HOWEVER, THE CUB IS NOT DESTINED WITH THE GREAT POWER FROM IT…."
"NO MATTER. HIS LIFE. HIS AURA. EVERYTHING HAS MEANING TO THIS LIFE! THE GREAT ONES WILL BE HAPPY." A feminine voice said.
"OPAL….YOU HAVE BEEN CHOSEN. CHOSEN TO LEAD THE BEAST AND RAISE THE KING TO KILL THE GREAT GUARDIAN OF THIS UNIVERSE…THIS WORLD!!"
"I refuse." Opal said. There was a long silence as all the giants laughed at the cub. "AHAHAHAHA!!!!"
"HOHOHO!!!"
"HEHEHE!!!"
"MWAUAH!!!!!"
"FOOL!!! THIS IS YOUR DESTINY!!! YOU DARE DEFY US?! HOW DARE YOU-"
"No!! How dare you?!" Opal roared, shaking the dimension. "My…family…IS DEAD!!! YOU ALL ALLOWED THIS TO HAPPEN!!!" Opal cried.
"SUCH EMOTIONS….ARE POINTLESS, OPAL."
"INDEED."
"MHM."
"OPAL…WE ARE BEINGS THAT FAR EXCEED YOUR UNDERSTANDING. WE KNEW YOUR LIFE BEFORE YOU EVEN EXISTED. WE BEINGS EXIST ONLY TO HAVE THINGS HAPPEN. WE ARE THE BALANCE OF THE UNIVERSE. ALL UNIVERSES AND BEYOND-"
"I won't….serve a king I've never met. I won't…work with those bastards who killed my family. I sure as hell…won't do anything you all tell me to do." Opal said as his aura began to rise. "FOOLISH BEAST!! WE ARE NOT ASKING. YOU WILL OBEY AND BE A GREAT TOOL FOR THAT WEAK KING!!!"
Opal was lifted into the air, his body strained by a unknown force. "WE SHALL WIPE ANY EMOTIONS YOU'VE DEVELOPED THROUGH THAT HUMAN! YOU'LL BE MORE THAN STRONG ENOUGH WITH YOUR POTENTIAL, BUT WE MUST USE OUR OWN DARK ENERGY TO CONSUME YOU!!"
"S-stop…I don't…I don't want to lose my feelings! I don't want to forget them!! Stop it!!!" Opal cried out.
The ten beings held out their hands and began chanting. A large black ball of energy fell upon Opal, as a thick smoke came. "NOW…FOR YOUR NAME IS NO LONGER OPAL….IT IS….UNIVERSE!!!!"
"UNIVERSE!!!"
"ARISE, UNIVERSE."
"THROW THAT FEELING OF RELYING ON OTHERS! YOU DON'T KNOW THOSE HUMANS, UNIVERSE!"
"ARISE!"
"THE MIGHTY ONE WILL BE PLEASED."
"IT IS ONLY A FRACTION OF OUR GREAT POWER."
******
Opal opened his eyes, as a powerful surge of energy blew everything and everyone away, causing a large earthquake throughout the universe. Obsidian used his strength and grabbed onto a large tree, as he was blown away from the sheer power of Opal's new aura. Obsidian caught a glimpse of Opal's new body and colors, having the beautiful universal colors on his skin.
"I…Universe….SHALL SERVE AND PROTECT OUR FUTURE KING!!!" Universe roared.
"Unbelievable strength. What in the gods happened while sitting on that chair?" Obsidian asked himself.
******
Many many years later…..
"YOU WANT ME TO DO WHAT?!" Crystal gasped, as Opal sat high up on the massive mountain, away from the pride. "I order you…to go to earth and proceed." Opal said softly. "Opal-"
"Is that a problem, Crystal?"
"N-no, sir." Crystal replied.
"Good. Do it for Toxic's child's sake."
"So Opal wants to go to earth? After all this time, it's finally time. The great sacrifices shall merge together and create the "egg of the king". Obsidian said.
"Seems that way." Amethyst said.
"When do you have to set out?" Pearl asked.
"Not sure. He will let me know." Crystal replied as she cracks her hand.
"May the gods be with you, Crystal. Stay safe until we arrive on the island." Obsidian said. "Hmph! Whatever, Obsidian. But…thanks?"
"Ungrateful brat." Amber sighed.
******
All this…and I finally see it now. From…from a flower? I've failed…I'm not the chosen one. I'm…I'm the failure. Opal, the failure. I'll never reveal my face again…not even to my comrades.
*****
Widow held the baby tightly in her arm while holding her sword towards Opal. Opal stood up and tried to walk away, but he stumbled back to the ground. Widow placed the baby down gently and immediately held out her left elbow and rested her sword on it, while pointing it at Opal, who stumbled backwards and looked down at the wound. "Heh…not…not bad, Widow….not-" Opal coughed blood as he fell to a knee and began wheezing each breath. Opal looked down at the beautiful rose flowers and simply…smiled. "Chosen for something…only for it to all be for nothing." Opal whispered to himself. "Heh…you better…win, majesty. I have no…no hate towards you, for you are a child…"
Opal picked up a rose and smelled it. (My heart….it hurts once again. Born into this universe, not from convenience, but from some destiny. Used as a weapon for the king. The ten great beings of darkness…)
Opal grabbed and squeezed his chest tight. "M-mother….sister…." Opal cried as he punched the ground. Widow lowered her sword, with lots of blood still dripping from all her open wounds, she slowly approached the beast with her sword gripped tightly in her hand. "Opal…."
"I have failed them….i failed the both of them those hundreds of years ago!! I am no chosen one…I'm the failure. Rose…Tish!!….why…why did it all turn out this way?! Forgive me. Please, forgive me….forgive-"
Widow dropped to the ground and hugged Opal tightly. (What's…this?) Opal thought, as Widow squeezed him tightly and pressed her body against his. "You're not a failure, Opal. You're…truly one of the kindest and sweetest…person I've…I've ever had the pleasure of meeting. You're more human than me…." Widow said as she broke down and cried with Opal.
Everything went white and felt warm. For the second time in Opal's life…in this moment, he felt the touch of…love and trust from another woman.
"Opal." Tish said, now standing right in front of Opal, making him look up.Tish got to her knees and held out her arms. "You got to live a long life. I'm so proud…I'm so proud to have met you those years ago. You're my pride and joy, Opal. Thank you for everything." Tish leaned in and the two hugged and cried. Rose joined them and they all embraced. "Welcome home, Opal."
Widow could feel Opal's grip slipping. "Huh? O-Opal?" Widow turned her head to the right to see Opal not responding…finally showing his facial expression, as a smirk was across his face. Widow's lips quivered as she continued to hold Opal in her arms. "Th-thank…you, Ms. Widow….I'm sorry…f-for everything…." Opal managed to utter one last breath as he went silent and let his weight fully press against Widow.
Widow's face crumbled, her lips quivering, and with trembling shoulders.
"Hhhh, huhh…Opal…open…open your eyes! OPAL!!"
Nothing but the cries from the child echoed inside the space. Widow continued to hug Opal in her arms. "Deep down…you were still that cub…damn it!"
*******
Everyone was teleported into a massive and dark room. Blizzard jolted around to see everyone in the room. A tall monster stood above them all, with Jade standing beside it. "Blind, what the hell is this-"
"Silence you fool." Rala said as she walked towards the group. "So…this is the group I saved. How…pathetic. To have been caught I such a weak expansion. It makes me wonder what the limits are of you Akies and humans."
"Where…where's Widow?!" Sleet shouted as she looked around in a panic.
"Adisa is already on it." Rala said as she stepped over Colt. "He doesn't have long. He needs to hurry up and fast."
******
Widow placed Opal down carefully and began to crawl towards the baby. She had no more strength to even walk. Suddenly, a shadow appeared to fall from the sky as it landed behind the child. "Widow." Adisa said.
"A-Adisa?! Where-"
"Shh. Everyone is safe. You did it…to beat-"
"I did no such thing! He gave up! Wanted to fight fair!" Widow argued.
"Fight fair?" Adisa asked as he bent down and grabbed the baby by it's head. The baby screamed louder than before, alsmot shattering Widow's eardrums. "What are you doing!? Put her-"
Adisa had moved behind Widow, this time, standing on top the body of Opal. Widow turned around and crawled towards him. "Please, get off of him. Give me the baby!"
"Widow, these…beast are the enemy. If we keep one, who's to tell how strong they'll become. We don't know what diseases we can even get for being in contact with them. We don't know their diet. Their functions. Bringing their kid into our world will-"
Widow grabbed Adisa by his foot. "Adisa, please, stop this! WE NEED TO CHANGE , DAMN IT!!!"
Adisa's eyes widened slightly. "All this…this death and fighting…for what?! Because they labeled yo as some monster?! Because your friends betrayed you?! Because Wonder wants you dead?! We're just soldiers, fighting to protect our families and homes! This child…this child has done nothing wrong! It's innocents…shouldn't be tampered with or thrown in the middle of adult business!! Even civilians!! Opal fought for the side he believed in! The side that tricked him! Lied to him! We all have been lied to, Adisa! Please…let go of her and step off of his body!!"
Adisa stepped off of Opal's body and gently handed the baby over to Widow.
"In this twisted and messed up world…we people who are beneath actual power in our world, are nothing but pawns for them to use when they start something. I'm aware this child has nothing to do with my past or Wonder's goals…but here we are, the cycle starting over again. That child is indeed innocent, but I was once…that child you cling to tightly in your arms. This world, the people, the environment I grew up in. All these things made me who and what I am today. By you clinging on to that child, you're asking for it to be just like me. It will be judged on its appearance. Judged because of what's transpiring today. Judged because it's a beast…not a human or akie. You could be creating another monster that'll be soaked in the same darkness that I was. Are you really willing to risk that, Widow?"
"Absolutely. We need to end this conflict! This could be a big first step…in stopping this war!" Widow said.
"I see." Adisa said as he snapped his fingers and teleported him and Widow out of the dimension.
*****
Widow, the baby, and Adisa were now in the room with everyone who had been in the dimension. Adisa cracked his neck before turning to face everyone. "Glad you all survived. I'm also glad everyone is here-"
"Can we take a moment to relax?! Elizabeth asked while pointing at Adisa.
Adisa looked around and noticed the faces of everyone. Tired and scared. "What exactly happened inside of there?"
"I'm not sure what his expansion was, but…I saw Angel." Flow answered. "She's been gone for a while…there's no way I shoudve seen her."
"Mhm. I too…saw someone I wasn't supposed to. It was like…looking death in the eye." Sleet described.
Blizzard slammed his axe into the ground and began looking around frantically. "Where are my clansmen?! My clan?! Where are they?!"
Adisa looked over at Rala. "Everyone here are the only survivors. That means…your clan is gone. Almost extinct if you will-"
"SHUT YOUR MOUTH!!" Blizzard yelled at the knight.
"Your attitude…intrigues me." Rala said.
"That's a shame most of the clan died. I wanted to be the one to do it." Jack said as he appeared behind Jade and placed his hand on her shoulder.
"My old friend Jade…still not wanting to join us again, huh?" Jack whispered.
"If you don't piss off…I'm gonna kill you."
"We both know…you can't do that-"
Adisa's long black sword stopped at Jack's neck, as his negative aura began slowly ripping away at Jack's flesh. "She can't…but I will. Stand down, Jack." Adisa ordered him. His tone soft but alarming.
Jack stepped away from Jade and rubbed his neck. "That's some power, kid. You must've forgotten…that you work with us-"
"I don't work for you. If anything, I'm interested more in Onbeperk." Adisa said as he put his sword away.
(That name…my father? Adisa is working with..my dad?!) Colt thought.
"You all can rest up. In the meantime, we must discuss our next plan. I'm glad that most of us are here-"
"Who said anything about us working with you, Akie?" Rogue asked as the tall man stood up straight.
"By "us" I'm assuming you're referring to you and Widow? That's fine. Rue knows what's up. You two aren't really involved in the plan-"
"What Adisa means to say," Jade began. "Everyone and both sides are being attacked. We should combine our forces, even if you aren't caught up with everything we've gone over." Jade explained. "She's right, Rogue-"
"Who told you to speak, Widow? Know your place…and rid yourself of that flesh loving monster at once!" Rogue ordered. Rogue saw a metal door and walked towards it.
"Don't open that door, Rogue. You're not ready for what's beyond it." Adisa warned.
"Tsk. I need to regroup with the remaining super-" Rogue opened the door and immediately went silent. Beyond the door…were millions to billions of creatures no human or akie had ever laid their eye on.
The sky had mouths, the ground had faces with their mouths open and sharp teeth, it rained blood, screaming of people being burned alive, fire in the background, blood covered mountains, and many creatures lurking below…eating people alive. It was…hell.
Rogue immediately slammed the door shut. "Where are we?" He asked Adisa.
"Not sure. When I was crawling through the dark dimension…I noticed my abilities and aura had been tangled with. The moment we open that door…we can't use our powers, aura, or even fly if you can past that door." Adisa explained as he began sharpening his sword.
"We can't just bust open this room and-"
"Rala already tried that. It's safe to say…this place…is the entry point to a zone where stronger beast are. It's hard to explain." Adisa said.
"Explain it, man!" Jack said with an annoyed look on his face.
"The island we live on, earth. It's just the beginning of this world. Right now, we're in the beast zone of it. The beast lands or beast zone…is unknown in its size. The beast zone also has 5 levels of lands and power levels. Each zone has increasing amounts of danger levels and beast. This is the second zone of their lands. In this zone, we can't use aura, powers, or flight. I also don't see a way to leave once you enter through a certain point. The point of entry is unknown…and…I can't use my dark dimension to put everyone inside and transfer."
"Great, so we're screwed." Blizzard said.
"Nah. You're not going to die yet, Blizzard. After studying a small portion of the area with my shadow soldiers…I have reason to believe something deep within this zone acts as the anchor of it. If it were to die, we can exit and enter this zone as we please."
"I thought you said you couldn't use your powers inside the room?" Sleet asked.
"I said they were tangled with when I was in here. We can use our aura and abilities in here, but not at a high level. It might just be enough power to kill a normal human, and that's it." Adisa explained as he stood up and put his sword away.
"What do you think you're doing?! Don't tell me you plan on going out there?!" Jade asked as she pushed Adisa back.
"You're crazy to leave, Adisa. I think we should wait…I can figure something out-"
"We don't have time for that…Colt. Jade, step aside."
"I won't-"
"Trust me. I'm going to clear out this entire zone and kill the anchor. I don't need my powers to do it."
"It's suicidal! We don't know how big the zone is! The first zone alone is bigger than earth and you wanna jump into the second one?! This is stupid!"
"I have faith in him." Rala said. Everyone turned their heads to face the knight as she handed Adisa one of her large and long black swords.
"I'll be back. Don't answer this door…for nothing in the next hour. I'll kill them. Slaughter every last thing in this zone!"
*****
Next chapter: Twins vs Ocean