&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The sound of two trumpets echoed in the audience chamber as a group of four Yoshis marched in.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Announcing Chaoshi, Guardian of Chaos, leader of the Yoshian Guardians.&nbsp; Serenity, former princess of Tiriana, majestic healer.&nbsp; Aily, Guardian of Water, symbol of purity.&nbsp; Lyn, Tri Hunter, protector of the Yoshian people," a guard proclaimed after the trumpets died down.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The group marched down the path made by the large, purple quilt that was sprawled out across the chamber, stretching to the leaders of the Othean people.&nbsp; They were only a few feet from the steps leading up to their seats before they kneeled on the ground.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Queen Ezra, famed leader of the Othean Resistance Force that fought against the controlling Imperial Yoshis before the guardians' intervention.&nbsp; Her bold tactics and unsurpassed bravery made her the natural choice to lead the reconstruction of the island after their three hundred year war finally came to an end.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Sitting beside her was her husband Rayir, now holding the title of king.&nbsp; One of her closest advisors also stood between them, holding a solemn appearance.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The two rulers remained in their thrones, smiling.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Raise your eyes," Ezra commanded.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The group did as they were told, allowing them to face them.&nbsp; Ezra was dressed in magnificent white dress, allowing the red of her skin to stand out.&nbsp; Chaoshi could notice a light bump in the middle, ruffling the otherwise flawless outfit.&nbsp; The idea of her expecting went into his mind, making him smile.&nbsp; He was glad to see that she could finally realize a sort of normal life after years of conflict.&nbsp; He would remain quiet though.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Rayir was dressed in a fine silk robe.&nbsp; The violet color was only a shade lighter than his own skin.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ezra rose from her seat, still smiling at the group.&nbsp; "I welcome you to Othea on behalf of my people."&nbsp; She examined the group.&nbsp; "I appreciate you responding to my summons."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We arrived as fast as we could," Aily responded.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi nodded.&nbsp; "Why have you summoned for our assistance?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ezra's expression returned to a more serious tone after the question was asked.&nbsp; "We have reason to believe that there is suspicious activity occurring in the Forbidden Zone."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"The Forbidden Zone?&nbsp; Wasn't entry barred from citizens long ago?"&nbsp; Lyn proceeded to ask.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"You are correct.&nbsp; We still believe that the tower within the area resonates with the energy of the satanic rituals performed there in ancient times."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I remember that story.&nbsp; They say that the first Demon Lord took residence there," Serenity added.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi scowled.&nbsp; He wiped out the last one, Leon, only a few short years ago.&nbsp; The mere mention of his title was enough to send shivers down his spine.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Ezra continued.&nbsp; "Over the course of the last month, some of the members of the royal guard have turned up missing."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"How is that possible?" Aily inquired.&nbsp; "I thought that even the guards themselves couldn't leave their designated posts.&nbsp; That and there are camps all over the border of the region if my memory is correct."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Aye.&nbsp; That fact is what truly concerns us.&nbsp; We dare not move our guards or we could allow citizens to enter or lose even more of our men."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Your grace," Chaoshi announced.&nbsp; "Have there been any citizens trying to get into the region as of late?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Rayir lifted himself from his throne.&nbsp; "There have been a few...incidents, yes.&nbsp; Some citizens have been trying to get in during the last few months, but nothing really unusual at first.&nbsp; Despite the reputation it has, we do have plenty of tourists that try to visit it.&nbsp; However."&nbsp; He stopped for a moment.&nbsp; "There have been a few incidents before the disappearances where some tried to use force to get in, only for them to be detained.&nbsp; The most severe situation occurred just five weeks ago, where a guard had to kill such a person after they threatened his life."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Odd..."&nbsp; Serenity mumbled.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Indeed," Ezra replied.&nbsp; "What makes this more interesting is that we believe that the incident may go alongside a rumor that has existed since the end of the war."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Rayir nodded.&nbsp; "The citizens sometimes speak of a cult that supposedly worships the Demon Lord.&nbsp; A few say that it was started by a few surviving Imperial Yoshis.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I've heard of this cult," Lyn announced.&nbsp; "It was a few months ago that I dispatched some possible members on Yoshi's Island because they were trying to break into the Rainbow Palace one night."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I...was not aware of this," Ezra remarked.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Queen Sheila wished to keep it private until they find out more.&nbsp; For all I know, they are still looking over the items that they recovered from their bodies.&nbsp; We were not aware that they were following the ways of such a dark figure at the time."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I see..."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi felt sick to his stomach.&nbsp; <i>How could anyone follow the Demon Lord?</i>&nbsp; He turned to Serenity and could easily see the anger on her face.&nbsp; His attention returned to the queen.&nbsp; "If such a cult truly exists, it would not surprise me that the Imperials would start it.&nbsp; They followed Leon to the bitter end and it might be safe to say that the Demon Lords of the past had some sort of involvement in tipping the conflict here in their favor at times."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The queen nodded.&nbsp; "Serenity."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes your grace?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Ever since the incident at Tiriana brought to your people by the Demon Lord, Othea had pledged to help the island recover.&nbsp; I understand what your people have went through and we wish that such an incident doesn't happen again."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"With him gone, I don't think you have to worry."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Nothing is ever certain unfortunately...I want all of you to go into the region and put a stop to this cult if they exist.&nbsp; We can no longer risk the safety of the entire archipelago by idling by as this threat grows."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"It shall be done," the group said in unison.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Also, I would like for you to see if you can try and purify the land of this energy so that it may no longer exist.&nbsp; If Othea wishes to continue to grow, we must purge this dark scar on the land."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We'll see what we can do, your grace," Aily replied.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Thank you.&nbsp; I wish you well in the region.&nbsp; Good luck."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We shall not fail you," Chaoshi finished.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The queen motioned to the group with her hand, dismissing them.&nbsp; A guard escorted them back out of the castle before he would return to her.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The streets of the famed walled city were busy as usual.&nbsp; Citizens were moving about to perform their tasks for the day.&nbsp; As they walked down the main road, their eyes took notice of the vendors selling their wares.&nbsp; Of course the group was not in need of such items, but it pleased them to know that the island, particularly this city was recovering well.&nbsp; It hadn't been too long since the walls were damaged from the great battle that ended the war, with blood filling these streets.&nbsp; Now it seems like such a conflict had never even occurred.&nbsp; The beautiful ivory castle that towered over the city was now free of former injury.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi led the group through the west gate, which exited out into the Kafe Hills.&nbsp; He stopped, causing the rest of the group to stop in their diamond formation.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"What is it?"&nbsp; Lyn asked.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Sorry...just reliving a few memories."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily could relive them as well.&nbsp; She was with Chaoshi and the other guardians when the final battle started in this area.&nbsp; Hundreds of Yoshis fought here on both sides, but it was thanks to them that the Otheans were able to overcome the odds and push into the city.&nbsp; She took notice of Serenity breaking formation and moving to Chaoshi's side.&nbsp; The two talked for a moment, him telling the story of this battle.&nbsp; She remembered; Chaoshi hadn't met Serenity yet before this conflict.&nbsp; Lyn turned to her.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I heard about this battle.&nbsp; I wish I could have taken part in it."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"It was before the Tri Hunters became allied with the guardians as their personal champions."&nbsp; She looked back out to the grassy fields that made the landscape.&nbsp; "I believe you would have done exceedingly well in the fight though."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn nodded in approval.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;After a few moments, Chaoshi moved onward, the rest of the group following them.&nbsp; They trotted through the grass, a gentle wind blowing at their backs as they moved northwest.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Past the Kafe Hills was a trail leading onward through an increasingly dense forest.&nbsp; A signpost was placed at the entrance, warning travelers that they were near the Forbidden Zone.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Why isn't there a guard posted here?&nbsp; It would make sense if they are going to put this sign here," Serenity spoke.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"The road breaks off into two paths; one leads to the zone, but the other leads to a small fishing town," Chaoshi answered.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I see."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The group moved further in, soon leading to where the road branched off into two.&nbsp; Another signpost was placed, showing where each road led.&nbsp; This time, under the sign point towards the Forbidden Zone, there was an order to not go in that direction.&nbsp; They could make out the outline of a thick palisade wall in the distance, surrounding the area.&nbsp; It became more noticeable as they moved closer.&nbsp; The wall was beginning to wrap around the road, leading straight to where a guard camp should be.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;They had walked for several miles before reaching the camp, the road ahead blocked by a gate.&nbsp; However, the gate was partially open and not a guard was in sight.&nbsp; Chaoshi drew his sword, the rest of the group following his example.&nbsp; They approached it, still seeing no signs of life.&nbsp; A small fire burned within a pit, but that was the only noise being emitted into the suddenly deathly quiet air.&nbsp; There was no sign of damage to the camp.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Spread out.&nbsp; See if you can find anything," Chaoshi ordered.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn and Aily started for the small building to the right.&nbsp; Aily opened the door of the building and peered inside.&nbsp; Still no trace of a living being.&nbsp; In fact, all they could find was two empty cots and some leftover food.&nbsp; Lyn shook her head.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"It's like someone was trying to cover this up..."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"You think so?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yeah."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn pulled back a cover on one of the cots, suspecting something underneath.&nbsp; Her hunch was right, a bloodied sword sat on the cot.&nbsp; She picked it up and ran a finger across the blade.&nbsp; The blood was dry, beginning to rust the polished steel of the sword.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Whatever happened occurred some time ago.&nbsp; Not too long, maybe a few hours if I am correct."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We better show it to Chaoshi," Aily suggested.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Indeed.&nbsp; Check the other cot first though."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily pulled the cover, only to find nothing underneath.&nbsp; "No hidden surprise this time."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn nodded.&nbsp; The two soon left the building.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi and Serenity were still busy inspecting the camp itself.&nbsp; Serenity held onto a helmet that she found buried nearby.&nbsp; It was dented, having been used to deflect a strong blow.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Found anything else?"&nbsp; Chaoshi asked.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"No...It might be safe to assume that whoever did this took what they could use."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Hm, it is possible."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He turned his head to see Aily and Lyn returning.&nbsp; He noticed the sword right away.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I see..."&nbsp; He stood back up from the kneeling position that he was in.&nbsp; "Even bloodied, a sword of that quality could be of use."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"What do you mean?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Serenity thinks that those that did this took what they could use.&nbsp; It would make sense, especially if they are indeed some cult."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;An arrow suddenly was fired from the trees.&nbsp; It missed Chaoshi's head by a few inches, crashing into a log that sat nearby.&nbsp; The group turned to where the arrow was fired.&nbsp; Aily could make out the assailant, a grey Yoshi wearing a dark silver robe, crouching on top of a thick branch.&nbsp; He drew another arrow from the quiver, not caring that he was spotted.&nbsp; The arrow was soon fired.&nbsp; Chaoshi created a shield in an instant with a flick of his wrist.&nbsp; The arrow bounced harmlessly from the energy barrier, falling back to the ground nearby.&nbsp; He then countered with a burst of Chaos Spears from his hand.&nbsp; The group struck the attacker, sending him off the branch.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Two other Yoshis wearing robes charged through the gate, flailing their swords in the air as they charged.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily slammed a foot against the ground.&nbsp; A geyser erupted from deep within the earth, sending one of the attackers flying into the air.&nbsp; Lyn and Serenity charged towards the remaining assailant, taking him down immediately with a graceful cross strike.&nbsp; He was dead before the other Yoshi finally returned to the ground, dying on impact.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi inspected the area for a moment before giving the group an 'all clear' signal.&nbsp; They still kept their swords out as they moved towards the two bodies.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Check for anything useful," he ordered.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He stepped ahead with Serenity to watch over the area while Aily and Lyn looked through the pockets of their attackers.&nbsp; Moments later and Aily took a necklace from around the neck of one of them.&nbsp; Hanging on it was a strange, black pendant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Look at this."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi turned around to see the item.&nbsp; He scowled immediately.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"It is a seal of the Demon Lord.&nbsp; Legends say that he personally gives them to those he chooses to be a part of his personal guard.&nbsp; Usually the recipient has to do a lot of terrible deeds to be deemed worthy by him.&nbsp; That is why they say that most recipients are among the most notorious killers in the region."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn shivered.&nbsp; "I remember seeing one of those.&nbsp; One of those that tried to kill Queen Sheila wore one."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Remember Xera Chaoshi?"&nbsp; Serenity added.&nbsp; "We saw that the Imperial in charge there wore one of those."&nbsp; A flood of memories came back to her.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He nodded.&nbsp; "Yeah..."&nbsp; He took the pendant into his hand.&nbsp; "I could have swore that I wiped out all of those that wore this though."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Nothing is ever truly certain," Aily stated.&nbsp; "At least one more is gone.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi sighed.&nbsp; "Looks like this indeed a cult.&nbsp; Come on.&nbsp; We need to move."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"As you say," the group responded.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi moved forward and pushed the gate open.&nbsp; The entire group gasped at what they saw as it was revealed.&nbsp; Chaoshi simply closed his eyes and shook his head.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"The land...it's dying," Serenity stated, saddened.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Most of the color was gone from the plant life, now nothing more than grey with small remnants of brown and green.&nbsp; Even the dirt had practically lost its color.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"This is what happens when there is enough dark energy in a local area.&nbsp; The land itself becomes corrupted, losing the life it once had.&nbsp; Sometimes the effects can be immediate, but usually it takes some time for it to happen."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Like with Tiriana..."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes, but the effects there were immediate with how much energy Leon used in his attack.&nbsp; It might be safe to say that this process has been going on for centuries."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily felt sick to her stomach.&nbsp; The land was impure, defiled.&nbsp; "Is there a way to restore it?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi thought for a moment.&nbsp; "I think I have an idea, but we'll need to get to the tower first.&nbsp; Come on.&nbsp; The land will only get worse as we approach it."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The group returned to their diamond formation and began their march down the path.&nbsp; Aily couldn't help but wonder if she could return the land to its former glory with her newfound abilities that were given to her.&nbsp; Did she have that kind of power?&nbsp; She only hoped so as she continued to view the dying land that she traveled on.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;As the miles went by, the land grew more grotesque.&nbsp; Trees had completely lost their leaves, the branches now beginning to rot.&nbsp; It was a haunting sight.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi stopped everyone when he sensed something amongst the terrible energy that violated the area.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We are near them."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"How can you tell?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"The darkness of their hearts..."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi moved everyone into the decaying grove of trees before leading onward.&nbsp; A small campsite eventually came into view.&nbsp; A few cultists were dancing around a fire, singing a song in the old tongue.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"That song.&nbsp; Remember it Lyn?"&nbsp; Aily asked.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yeah.&nbsp; The same song we were hearing when we dispatched our first threat as the Tri Hunters."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi turned around.&nbsp; "That song is an demonic chant, meant to praise the dark lord for all that he does to the world in his own quest of 'purification.'&nbsp; It is a terrible tune."&nbsp; He returned his attention to observing the group.&nbsp; "Let's take them down, but leave one alive so that we can extract some information."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Right," the group answered.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He silently ordered everyone into different directions, pointing them to take a position around the camp and wait for his signal.&nbsp; It was a slow process, but everyone soon took a different compass point around the camp.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi knelt down and studied the area.&nbsp; The group had just finished their sick dance and taken their own places around the camp.&nbsp; He scanned each individual intensely, trying to figure out who led this rabble.&nbsp; Once he was sure, he put a hand to his head.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Aily," he spoke telepathically.&nbsp; "The hooded one by the large tent is the leader.&nbsp; Knock him out with your water.&nbsp; Serenity, Aily, pick a target outside of him and eliminate them."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He sat for a moment and waited.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn charged the camp and sliced the neck of an inspecting member.&nbsp; She was away from the camp before he collapsed on the ground in his own blood.&nbsp; One tried to chase after her, only to be eliminated by Chaoshi as he passed by.&nbsp; It was a clean kill.&nbsp; Lyn regrouped with him to watch the rest.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The remaining two were in a panic, looking every which way to find the source of the attack.&nbsp; Aily saw her chance and released a powerful stream of water from her hand.&nbsp; It struck the leader with tremendous force, knocking him into a tree.&nbsp; It shattered into pieces when he made contact, like broken glass.&nbsp; Before his partner could help him up, Serenity charged with a dagger and stabbed him in the back.&nbsp; She waited a moment to make sure that he was gone before pulling the blade out and letting him fall to the dirt.&nbsp; Aily arrived afterwards and took hold the leader by the collar.&nbsp; His hood fell back, exposing his green-skinned head.&nbsp; She could see the fear in his eyes.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Tell me what you know!"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He spat in her face.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Serenity slugged in him response.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He laughed sarcastically, not amused.&nbsp; "I won't say a word."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily was already tired of this game.&nbsp; She threw him up in the air, using all the strength in her arms.&nbsp; Then she fired two simultaneous jets of water, sending him further up.&nbsp; He yelled before he began to descend.&nbsp; Chaoshi jumped up from the trees, his fins having changed into dragon wings, to catch him before landing.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Want to speak now?" he asked.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The minion was coughing, having took some water into his mouth.&nbsp; "Fine...Just don't do that again."&nbsp; He coughed again.&nbsp; "I'm just a new recruit...the leader is at the tower up ahead, performing some sort of ritual that he won't tell me about."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Is that all?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes!"&nbsp; He was still in shock over what happened.&nbsp; "Again, I'm just a recruit!"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi shook his head.&nbsp; "Fine...Lyn."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Return him to the gods."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Certainly."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"No, please!"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi didn't answer, only reciting a short prayer.&nbsp; He hoped that they would find mercy on his soul.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The cultist would not speak again, him soon falling to the same fate as his brethren.&nbsp; Lyn shook off some of the blood off her sword as Chaoshi placed him on the ground.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We'll see to it that they are properly buried once we are done.&nbsp; Move out."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The group did as they were instructed, but Aily stayed behind for a second to look over the bodies.&nbsp; She closed her eyes, struggling to not shed a tear in front of the others.&nbsp; She cried inside, sorry for those that allowed their souls to become so corrupted.&nbsp; After a faint whispering to herself, she ran to join the others.&nbsp; Chaoshi turned his head as he heard her return.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Winding through the dead forest, the path eventually brought them to a place where no life even existed.&nbsp; Small stumps and clumps of rotting debris were all that remain of a once pristine region.&nbsp; The tower was in clear sight now, standing tall on a plateau looking over the sea.&nbsp; They all frowned as they looked into the sky.&nbsp; A fierce vortex swirled over the tower, firing lightning bolts down on the structure's roof.&nbsp; Chaoshi could make out the silhouettes of a few archers watching over the clearing.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Aily."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yes?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We will take to the skies.&nbsp; Serenity, Lyn.&nbsp; We'll keep the archers busy while you rush into the tower."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Alright," Lyn answered.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Serenity unsheathed her sword and looked at the sapphire blade.&nbsp; "I'm ready."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi nodded and stamped his foot into the ground.&nbsp; A white aura surrounded his body, soon engulfing him entirely.&nbsp; The light immediately faded, revealing himself in his dragon form.&nbsp; He was a foot taller, with mighty wings that could cut through the fiercest winds.&nbsp; His famous sword was nowhere to be seen, having melded with his own body.&nbsp; He then turned to Aily.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;She rose a hand into the air, an orb forming from nothingness within her palm.&nbsp; Water poured out from the orb.&nbsp; The amount escaping increased, it soon creating a dome that covered her entire being.&nbsp; The sudden waterfall roared for a moment before it stopped.&nbsp; She swayed her tail around, still getting used to her own dragon form.&nbsp; Like Chaoshi, she didn't have her sword, but her connection to any and all things water was incredibly strong.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Ready Aily?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Let's do it!"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The two dragons leaped into the air, their wings immediately taking control as they carved through the sky above.&nbsp; Serenity and Lyn began to dash straight ahead, darting away from the path though the clearing.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;On the tower, the archers took notice of the two dragons and prepared to attack.&nbsp; They fired quickly, releasing an arrow after the other as the two approached them.&nbsp; They darted around them, a graceful sky dance.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi and Aily decided to tease the group a bit, staying low, but circling the tower.&nbsp; Such a diversion allowed Serenity and Lyn to break into the tower below.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Once he knew that the two were inside, Chaoshi ascended towards a group of three archers that were trying to knock him out of the sky.&nbsp; He tilted his head back and opened his mouth before unleashing a beam of pure light energy towards them.&nbsp; He roared as he felt it unleash, striking one of the archers.&nbsp; The archer disintegrated into nothingness the moment it made contact with his body.&nbsp; The two other two threw their bows away after seeing what became of their comrade, hoping that they would be spared from the same fate.&nbsp; Chaoshi roared again before a cyan aura appeared around him.&nbsp; He then swung his arm, releasing the aura in a wave of frigid energy.&nbsp; The two archers could not duck quickly enough.&nbsp; Their bodies were frozen in their panicked poses, leaving them to be nothing but statues until they were destroyed.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily was still contending with the four archers that were aiming at her.&nbsp; She had managed to knock one off with a jet of water, sending him flying into the sea.&nbsp; The near-deafening noise of the thunder overhead made it difficult for her to concentrate on using her new abilities.&nbsp; She clapped her hands together, curious to see what that may do.&nbsp; All that did was cause the thick clouds above to release a downpour upon everyone.&nbsp; She sighed as she dodged another arrow.&nbsp; The dragoness decided to fire another laser of water, managing to strike the next archer.&nbsp; Once again, she could hear him scream as he flew off the tower and into the sea behind it.&nbsp; With two guards remaining, she pushed herself towards the tower wall and sharply turned upward.&nbsp; Her body ran parallel against it before she reached the roof.&nbsp; Her hands extended outwards and grabbed the two by the throat.&nbsp; Their bows fell to the ground below as they were taken higher.&nbsp; The two cultists struggled to break free, but they weren't escaping her surprisingly sound grip.&nbsp; She just watched until the two tired themselves out and looked into her eyes.&nbsp; Her own eyes narrowed, the fire within them showing.&nbsp; Finally, she dropped the two, allowing them to fall to the ground.&nbsp; As they fell, she created two orbs within her hands and aimed down towards them.&nbsp; She threw the two orbs, striking them and accelerating their descent.&nbsp; She watched as their bodies crashed and erupted into miniature geysers of water.&nbsp; All that remained of them were small ponds.&nbsp; Satisfied, she returned to Chaoshi, who was observing the activity on the roof.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;His eyes were wide when she got to his side.&nbsp; It surprised her, the leader of the guardians was in complete shock.&nbsp; She turned to look down below.&nbsp; A single cultist wearing a more decorative robe stood in the center over another Yoshi chained to a stone slab.&nbsp; The cultist was not wearing a hood, his skin a deep shade of purple with strange markings all over it.&nbsp; It was safe for her to assume that he was the leader of the bunch.&nbsp; She couldn't help but gasp when she saw who it was that was strapped to the stone.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;It was Iris, the daughter of the Leon.&nbsp; She remembered her story; a soul that still struggled to figure out who she truly was, even after her purification by the guardians.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;How did she end up here?&nbsp; She could have easily beaten these guys.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I can't believe it," Chaoshi finally announced.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"What is he doing?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"He's...trying to do the Ritual of Rebirth."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"The holy ceremony that brings one back from the dead?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"The very one.&nbsp; Somehow they are trying to perform their own version of it to bring back the Demon Lord.&nbsp; It would make sense that they would try to use Iris' body as the host."&nbsp; He cringed when he saw how badly beaten she was.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Doesn't Iris have abilities like her dad?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Yeah, which is what concerns me.&nbsp; The only possible way that the cult defeated her was if they suppressed her power."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The leader of the cult looked up in the sky, smiling at the two dragons that were watching him.&nbsp; He was not phased at all by their presence.&nbsp; The Yoshi was in the midst of reciting an old incantation before he stopped to silently greet the two.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi made a fist out of one of his hands. As the two slowly landed on the rooftop.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; "So," the leader spoke.&nbsp; "I get the honor of meeting the esteemed Guardian of Chaos himself."&nbsp; He looked over the two dragons.&nbsp; "And in his dragon form.&nbsp; Such a rare sight.&nbsp; I'm sure the Demon Lord will love this to be his first sight."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi could hear Iris groan.&nbsp; She was barely conscious.&nbsp; The cult leader also looked at her.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"A shame though that he won't see you alive."&nbsp; The markings on his face flared before he unleashed a barrage of lightning bolts at the two."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;It was too fast for them to avoid, their bodies were frozen as the strange energy pulsed through them.&nbsp; The two were knocked to their knees, panting slightly from the intense feeling.&nbsp; Chaoshi shook his wrist to fire some Chaos Spears in defense, only to have nothing come out.&nbsp; The cultist laughed at the attempt.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I have temporarily rendered your power useless, thanks to a gift given to me by the Demon Lord himself."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily couldn't believe it and attempted to attack with her power.&nbsp; Just like Chaoshi though, nothing came out of her hand.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The leader pulled out a black sword from his robe.&nbsp; "The Demon Lord will rise again!"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He charged towards the two while they were down.&nbsp; Both rolled out of the way, leaving the painted blade to strike against the stone.&nbsp; The leader was focusing his attention on Chaoshi, wanting his blood.&nbsp; Chaoshi managed to get back up and counter his next attack with a punch to the gut.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; He also tried to take the sword from his hand, but was kicked back the moment the cultist recovered.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily moved in to help out Chaoshi, still taking advantage of the fact that it was two to one.&nbsp; She attempted to tackle him, but instead had to narrowly dodge an incoming thrust from his sword.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;During the attack, Chaoshi swiped his tail at the legs, knocking the leader down.&nbsp; His sword fell to the side.&nbsp; Chaoshi lifted him off the ground before he could grab it again.&nbsp; The leader still wore that unnerving smile.&nbsp; Aily picked up the sword, shuddering at how the cold hilt felt in her hand.&nbsp; She dropped it in an instant.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Hmph.&nbsp; I guess a mere mortal like me still has no chance to defeat you, even without your power."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"One that relies on only their power will follow the path of their demise."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Spare me your words of wisdom.&nbsp; Just put an end to me now."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Are there others with your power?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Find that out yourself.&nbsp; I can guarantee you though something, Guardian of Chaos...The Demon Lord will return."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily suddenly grabbed him and pulled him away from Chaoshi.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Not if the land is full of purity."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Ha!&nbsp; There will never be such a thing.&nbsp; There is an inner darkness within us all, even you.&nbsp; You wretched fool."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily turned to Chaoshi.&nbsp; He nodded.&nbsp; She could feel her power beginning to return in her free hand.&nbsp; Her eyes shifted attention for a moment to see that a dagger made out of water appeared within her hand.&nbsp; It felt like metal, but it was definitely water.&nbsp; Knowing what to do, she returned her focus to the cult leader.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"May the gods have mercy on your soul," she finished before stabbing the leader in the heart.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;He laughed once more, it soon succumbing to a final groan as his eyes closed.&nbsp; His body went limp in her hand.&nbsp; She slid the dagger out and allowed it to fall to the ground.&nbsp; The dagger was still clean with no blood on it.&nbsp; The strange weapon eventually disappeared, leaving nothing behind.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi quickly began working on the chains binding Iris.&nbsp; A trap door opened up nearby, Serenity and Lyn exiting from below.&nbsp; Lyn was clutching her arm, wounded from the fight inside.&nbsp; Serenity had it wrapped with a cloth after applying some healing energy to it.&nbsp; The white Yoshi took notice of Iris and rushed to her.&nbsp; An aura appeared around her as she began to try and heal her wounds.&nbsp; Lyn walked over to Aily and smiled.&nbsp; Aily was concerned for her wound.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"How bad is it?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Lyn turned to the wrapped arm.&nbsp; "I'll live."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The two turned and watched as Chaoshi and Serenity tried to talk to Iris.&nbsp; She could barely speak and they decided to induce her into a slumber so that she may recover.&nbsp; Once she was free from the chains, Chaoshi returned to Aily and Lyn.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"She'll live, but it will be a bit before we can get any information from her."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"What was going on?"&nbsp; Lyn asked.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi quickly told what he and Aily experienced.&nbsp; Lyn was surprised by the suppression of their power.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"I didn't know that was possible."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Nor did I honestly.&nbsp; Not even Leon used such an ability."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Maybe Iris has some idea about it."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Possibly.&nbsp; We'll do some research on it once we are back in the temple."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Should we try to complete Ezra's other request?"&nbsp; Aily asked, deciding to shift the conversation.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Aye, we should.&nbsp; Follow me Aily.&nbsp; Lyn, help Serenity as needed."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Can do," Lyn answered as she moved to join Serenity.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi flew up into the air, Aily following his movement.&nbsp; The two ascended a few hundred feet above the air, leaving them a fantastic view of the area.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"So, what did you have in mind Chaoshi?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"We are going to flood the area using a combination of light and water energy.&nbsp; It should hopefully be enough to wash out the dark energy and help restore the land to its former glory."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Can it really be done?"<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"It is worth a shot."&nbsp; He looked down at the devastated region.&nbsp; "Repeat after me."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi began to speak in the ancient tongue again, reading an old prayer from within his mind.&nbsp; Aily struggled to keep up, her fluency in the language not as strong.&nbsp; As she managed to say it, a gold aura surrounded them both.&nbsp; It grew in strength as the prayer neared its end.&nbsp; With the final words, Chaoshi yelled up into the skies and extended his arms.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily suddenly felt like her body was falling under the control of another force.&nbsp; Her arms extended forward.&nbsp; Below, the waves grew intensity and in number.&nbsp; Before she realized it, the ocean had risen enough to start covering the area in water.&nbsp; The flood progressed rapidly, covering the entire zone within a few moments.&nbsp; Her heart raced as she could feel more energy being used up.&nbsp; Waves crashed against the bottom of the tower.&nbsp; Some water entered it, flooding the lower level.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Chaoshi crossed his arms as he watched the remainder of the area become covered in a thick layer of water.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The ocean finally receded after a time, leaving the water on the land.&nbsp; Aily still couldn't believe that she managed to do this.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<i>Could I do this to an entire island?&nbsp; An ultimate purification?</i><br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The water itself began to shine brightly before dissipating into particles of light.&nbsp; The land underneath was revealed to be green with life again.&nbsp; It was still mostly barren, but it was no longer without some sort of color.&nbsp; Aily couldn't help but marvel at the process before turning to Chaoshi.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Amazing..."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;"Indeed.&nbsp; It still will take some time for the land to recover, but at least we have given it new life."<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;Aily nodded and closed her eyes again.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;<i>This is only the beginning though.&nbsp; I swear that no other part of the world will fall under the same fate as this place did.</i><br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The two continued to watch from the sky.&nbsp; The clouds were beginning to vanish and a glimmering rainbow soon broke through, stretching as far as they could see.<br>&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;The impossible was done; Othea was truly pure again.