*Numb*

..that's how often my body would feel like at times when I would awake. It weak and unresponsive, but soon enough; given time. I could feel...I could hear...and I would gather not only my five senses but the surrounding area, around me, as well. Yet, for some strange reason, I would drift back into a sense of drowsiness, when I do. Something was there. Something wrong. I knew it. Felt it. And could practically smell it... God, was it awful.

This time again. Trying to wake.

Only to fail in attempt. As once again, something closes off my train of thought, into a cesspool of sluggishness.

A certain smell, around me. Choking me. It insufferable, as if it was wrapped around tight. Filling my lungs with its essence as I try to the best of my knowledge, not to inhale. Yet, strangely enough, something grips my face. In tighter hold; forcing, that un-welcomed stench upon me.

I just didn't understand why though, I couldn't fight back. Why, I felt so numb. 'What is that?' My mind, slowly slipping away.

'Zangetsu...?' I call to him. Reaching.

'.....'

But he, nowhere in hold. 'Zanget...su.'

Fading.

<<>>

"That's it sunshine. Breathe in." A man says, holding a cloth. Gagging it, to the woman in hand; far, behind me.

'Careless...'

"Don't let her wake. If she regains consciousness for even a moment, that's some heavy baggage I'm not looking forward to dealing with, later."

'..I was too careless...' Being pulled along. My knuckles, tightening.

"I understand boss, but that's easier said than done--."

'They were on my watch... She was on my watch!' Pivoting my view, slightly, some more.

"--I'm pretty sure the Phaire Root is starting to lose its effects on her...for something so tiny, this is the third time I had to put her out. And she's starting to recover from the usage, even faster now. In all matter of speaking; I gave her enough to completely knock out a Viper and keep it down for a whole three days and nights. So she shouldn't be able to wake up--like--at all... are we sure she's even like the rest of 'em?"

Stopping dead in his tracks. The man I shared a moment of ale with, yesterday, turns around and scans me: stripped, tied and bound, without the support of my armor, gear, or weapons. A grin of sorts, marking his triumph as he spoke. "Of course, she's like them. It must be her magic that keeps repelling the Phaire Root's toxin. So don't worry. She'll fetch a high price on the market once we get her back to Krepus. There, she'll more than make-up for, than any Viper or three when we sell her...hehe." He chuckles, almost in knowing contempt. "..but then again, why settle with something as small-time as that?"

"Huh? What do you mean? If we sell her to some very rich nobles or a high-class merch, we'll no doubt make some-

"-No. Leave her to me...I have something better in store, instead."

"Woah. Now, hold on there Draesus. That's not what we previously discussed. There better be a hefty cut in it for each of us." Another man says. Stepping up, behind him.

"Careful, Azan. You wouldn't want to chip away the only remaining horn you have now, do you? Remember what happened last time." His back to him, as his long sword, falls suddenly and measures itself hold, in grasp. "I could always mount the second one on my wall." His stare cold and sentencing. Over to the man, who couldn't help but show the slightest signs of fear, by his words, alone.

'Damn...how did I not pick up on this, before?...' Slowly but immeasurably, realizing a threat most dangerous than anything else out there; laying in wait... hiding, in the sand. One, I was idiotically careless in putting the rest of my squad members in--for I can practically feel it now. That intent.

In a bored tone and prompting, the other man known as Azan to answer.

"Hmph, well? What's it going to be?" His back to him still. Waiting distinctively, for a reply but all he got in return a moment later, was a short sneer of aggression and a grumble of remarks. "If you got nothing else to say, then why don't you get the rest of our merchandise walking, then? I want to be back before the end of the day." His stare, remaining its cold glare.

"....Come on!" Agitation clearly in his voice. Pulling the ropes; tied around my wrists--from his tussle, in stepping forward. I couldn't help but follow and grit my teeth in frustration, from the sudden nuisance. And behind me, were the rest of my squad. Held as captives...following too, in tow. Heading to a city...

..who knows what awaits...

For hours we've marched in this desecrated climate. The sun, way past the peak of its height, however, continued to remain its power as an unrelenting force; cruel and merciless, even to this merry band of strangers...for something that gave us knights some reassuring peace during the day and is suppose to represent the light of hope in the world. It is surprisingly...unbearably...and scorchingly hot... but even so...

..I guess it needs to.

Drenches of sweat, radiating off me. While the rest stuck to my skin, in little effort of cooling me down or my body's temp. Continuing on soaking the fabric of the grieves, I wear.

Looking behind me, I could see Ebony. Her gaze somewhere, studying something in view. That is, until she sees me, then motions her eyes to a side. With my hands held tied together, I had no choice but to bend my head down to wipe away the hot sweat upon me. And in doing so, was an opportunity from the corner of my left eye, in doing something of getting ourselves free.

..or more like a ploy, into baiting us.

Testing to see what we'll do. What I... will do.

In a sigh of hot release, I pick up my view on the company around me. Carefully eyeing the larger men as they transport us. A close-tight formation, walking on both sides and blocking any path of running. Knowing, that we can fly, we're instead tied down by our wrists and dragged in tow by Azan. Not to mention, even if I was able to grab ahold of something sharp in hand to cut the rope between us and flee upwards, with the others. Jade's already in a tough position as is.

I looked behind again. Seeing the strong oak and known ax-splitter of wendigos, carry a disheveled, passed out, Violet. Sweat protruding off of him as he carried her for miles on his shoulder, to no end. Without the essential of rest or water, since this morning. It really pisses me off that she didn't heed my instructions. I thought, at first, it must have been whatever they put or dosed us with. But now, I see plainly clear it was just the alcohol from last night. 'When we get free and you're awake, we're having some words, Violet.'

Releasing another hot breath.

'But first, I need to figure out a way how to get us all out of this mess, unscathed.' Looking further to the side, behind Jade. To another member being carried, heavily tied in her binds. 'If she was awake, those bonds would be of no problem for her and I could easily take that knife hanging off this buffoons back belt, on my left by the distraction. The only problem is, they keep rendering her unconscious before she can even wake. What did he do? What was it, he called it...Phaire Root?' Examing the man, who carries her.

'How did they get all of us off guard...we shared the same ale with them. Was it too much for us? Or was it the mugs, themselves... no.' Reminiscing. 'They didn't have compartments to store such a potent toxin. I checked its weight beforehand and examined a little inside, afterward.' My legs, continuing their march. Rising over a steep hill in an effort to overcome. 'There must have been another way. So much on my mind, I was starting to contemplate on the point of it, at all. When something causes a shift in my attention.

"You bastards! Can't you see how tired my friend is--he needs water!" A voice shouts, in rage and rebellious protest.

'..dammit.' Knowing who it is.

"He's been carrying our friend here, on his shoulders for nonstop now. At least give him something to drink, you jokers!"

"Quit your whining. We're nearly there." Pulling the tides of my binds. Jostling me, along with Ebony and the rest forward. Clearly, indicating Azan wasn't in the mood for it.

But the same voice, couldn't give much of a care. "Fine, whatever, but at least give Jade some water. Or let me carry her for the time being."

"Please. I doubt those flimsy little arms of yours could carry her for a kilometer." Speaking, in a doubtful sigh. "Now just shut up and follow along, like a good little slave."

"Why you--if my hands were free I'd-"

Landing a stare in shutting him up, I spoke immediately. "Blaze, enough! Just keep quiet!!" He looks at me confused. Almost in shock, as he couldn't even comprehend what I just told him. Opening his mouth again, to respond. "Not another word, you got it?! If you so much as even open your mouth or let loose a wisecrack, so help me, not even a physician will be able to fix those missing teeth." My voice seethes, in a change of tone.

Also not having it.

Looking back at me with a fixated look, he turns his gaze onto something else. Anything else--that wasn't me. Nothing more, said between us for the remainder of the period, as he continues his walk. Holding the embers of aggression, from within, his captivity.

....

Good.

Facing forward, I was met with a smile from Azan.

"Humph. I would of loved to have heard the end of that sentence. Would probably, have made me laugh." It growing, slightly on him. "So why'd you have to stop him, huh?" For he knew too, the outcome of what would have happened.

Not saying anything or even the chance of giving him the satisfaction, I held my tongue. Just continuing in place to this unknown settlement. Feeling the fun or whatever amusement slowly dissipate, Azan faces forward, tugging the rope with him as he walks. Enjoying the last thrill of the sounds we made by his pull, once more.

'Their physiology and height are not to be undermined.' Admittingly knowing that they are stronger; in terms of physical endurance and strength. 'However, we'll get our chance. And when we do, you... Draesus... or anyone else that stands in our way...

..your all dead men, walking.'

Focusing my own resentment and anger, to the back of the men, I hate most.

Stepping over another hill and on the rise, there was a structure in the distance becoming clearer. Squinting to make it out, it looked as though there was a settlement on top of a large flat-top mountain. A few watchtowers on pointed sides, made from concrete stones, in strong positions.

"And there she is." Announcing the presence of our destination in sight. As he stands firm, Draesus looks back at us, re-dawning that smile from earlier. "Just wait till we're up top. The view of the land is personally my favorite and I'm sure you'll find the accommodations to your liking. That is... if you play nice." Facing forward again, he descends down the sand hill's path. "And if an old acquaintance accepts what I got to say."

I noticed the keen looks the other would share. They too, unclear to what he meant.

Walking a few more klicks, the caravan continued again, when we eventually arrived at a tall gated-door structure, embedded in the mountain's side. Its shape and size were finely crafted, at least thirty feet or more in height with a width stretching to twenty, and a color scheme a shade red. For a metal door though, it was highly characterized in style and artistry: as a twin-set of white metallic spikes, in the form and shape of horns, protrude outwards at the top helm of the gate. Gold carvings along with black ivory, had depicted images of battle-harden warriors, with weapons in hand, on the front entrance of the door.

Hearing the grind of gears and voices overhead. The heavy door with the encrusted warrior-designs opens up, signaling for us to enter through.

Making way, passing through the double metal doors. There seemed to be a set of elevator lifts in the distance, we were making our way too. Upon boarding, members of our captors closed a gate while the other flipped a lever. Startling the contraption into wake, hoisting everyone up along the ride.

"Hehe. Welcome home, boys. And for our first-time newcomers, allow me to personally welcome you to Krepus, Mountain City of the Badlands." After reaching the top. The gates, on the other side of the lift, opens in full view--revealing a busy, bustling society. Its people of larger and smaller builds. Different in height and physique, whether it be children, women, or that of the elderly; flock from one end of the scenery before us to the next. The scent of trees in the air as I breathe in, a bittersweet. Having a calming, natural feel look, to it. However, the sounds of construction opposite of us, across a reservoir, came from a tall incomplete building-structure. And near it...

..a plaza, filled in the busiest time of day.

"Enough dawdling. Let's go." Pulling my binds, edging me to follow once more. Moving from under the rocks of this semi-cave's entrance, we were led around the spring scenery and trees, to the main streets of the plaza.

"Spices! Get your spices! Cook for any occasion, anywhere, at any time. We got all kinds! All good, for any great price!"
"Wears! Get great wears at any reasonable price! For guys, you buy three tops you get an additional one half off! And we sell all kinds of tunics, pants, pouches, and essentials items!"
"Fruits! Fresh fruits!! Come fill your buds with some delicious mellow grapes. There fresh and ready for ya!"
"If you're a man, you dare to explore! If you're a warrior, you dare to take on the challenge. If you're a Minotaur, be it, man or woman, you dare to face the fear of death in total conquest!! So come on over for the best equipment and gears available. Any kind, for all your wants and needs! We have it all!"

Many store clerks ranted. Calling to the ears and interest's of the people, around us. While, we steadily make our way through the streets. Ignoring the chatter. The noise of the mass. The conversations being held by one person to the next. And yet...someone's eyes would halt... just for a moment. Their gaze lingering on us. On me.

A curious sight, within them. Building up, into a different change of interest.

As I walk, with each and every step I take; the more I feel as though I was placed under the spotlight of sudden, unwanted attention. For someone new would watch us, almost in welcoming. By the distraction. A reason to pause in their daily activity. Yet, there was something unusual about it. About the way, they would look.

Naturally, as the Queen's soldier and a Knight of Canterlot, I wouldn't have let such a tiny thing like this to bother me. To disturb me in some way. Years of escorting the nobles, higher-ups, and the Queen once, has trained me in a way to ignore... no... more like mentally obscure, the stares and gazes people would share. But the look these ones would give. The lips of the inhabitants moving, while studying us in view. And the eagerness each one would have. Would show.

..Was entirely upsetting.

"Don't let it get to you." A voice spoke, up in front. "They're just a tad bit excited to see you, is all."

"Are they really." Speaking to the back of the man. "Well, isn't this a welcoming." A large custodial building in sight, making our way too.

"Oh, it's yet to begin Silver. But don't worry, I'll make sure you get the proper welcome you deserve." Draesus walks. Confidence, somewhat in his stride as the tone he gave, was somewhat perplexing. Something...

I didn't quite like.

Upon entering the complex and out through a corridor, we were met instead this time with cold gripping malice, hanging in the air. A sudden, complete shift in feel, as a foreboding feeling of caution, spread within. Leaving me in a state of alert. For how would I not: a blood-lusting gaze, dawned in the eyes of almost every warrior here, in the courtyard, was unquenching. Their thirst for battle; for a glorified fight, left nothing but a bad impression in my mouth.

With every next available step, I could immediately tell that some here were veterans, and good ones at that.

The chipped blade. The wear and tear of armor and visible scars indicated from battle. And the heavy, iron-sultry look a few would have on them. Told me this was by no means an ordinary complex structure, we were lead to. But something much worse.

"This is a ring. You plan on selling us as contestants, don't you?" My voice gave in disgust.

He didn't answer. But instead opted us to halt, while he approaches a man finely dressed in stylized garbs and gold rings, on both his horns and fingers.

"This is crazy. There's no way he's serious with this." Azan spoke. "The hell is he doing speaking with that lecherous shit? He'll try to screw us over with any deal we'll make, to fatten his already fat sack." Snorting aggressions of dislike.

"Could be the girl. Perhaps Draesus actually plans on selling her or something for a huge, reasonable price." A member spoke to him, beside's us.

"No, he clearly said he wasn't going to do that... the only thing I can think of is having the girl participate in an available match. But against what, a Viper? A Gloarhorn? They're entertainment alright, but nothing much of a small scale show, to draw in some small scale pockets. So, what is he going to do?"

"Don't matter to me as long as we get paid, somehow right?"

"..Right." He addresses in almost unbelievable sarcasm, by hearing his cohorts words.

Looking behind, I noticed Ebony and Blaze were doing the same. Our sights on Reyna, still tied in her binds of tough rope. Held by the man who persistently keeps her sedated.

'...no. He's gonna use her as a marketing show... a puppet, to reel in a crowd and their money. He's gonna-'

"Is that her? Is that what you are wagering your livelihood and merchandises here, on? You can't be serious?!" A cockle muse of a laugh escapes. Facing forward, the wealthy but plump looking of an obese man, from before, comes into clearer vicinity. Disgustingly revolting, was more so his voice. You can practically feel how much of a swine he is, by the way, he talks.

Even if the next action he takes, wasn't a clear enough indication.

"Oh my. I do like this one." Walking. Stepping right pass me, as his hand, cuffs around Ebony's cheeks. She in response shakes him off immediately, not liking his touch. Then again, I wouldn't either. "And she's got some fire in her. Not bad." Looking behind her. His eyes scanning to Blaze, to Jade--to the member on his shoulder. "What's wrong with that one?" He questions bemused.

"This one is a drinker. A damn good one at that. But as you can see, she's just a little tired from last night's... festivities. I guarantee you she'll be ready by tomorrow. You should see the kit she carries. Found a few interesting things inside; the poison variety of kinds."

"You don't say." His view of perception screening on everyone once more, then finally on to me. The cranking gears of a decision, playing in his mind. For he stares long and keenly, making a choice. The choice of an answer Draesus was long awaiting for but showed no interest of it, on him. An unreadable emotion of hiding his thoughts, all perfectly too well.

Re-posturing himself into a better state. "Alright, Draesus. You have a deal." Facing one another now. "I'll open up a spot for you in tomorrow's schedule and get my guys to spread the word around, about an exhibition match; no one has ever heard of or seen, before. It'll be a headliner, for sure. Big enough, to bring in some nobles and cash flow." He grins. Before it contorts into something dark. Matching the tone he gives. "But if they fuck up or can't even keep to the end of our deal, it's not just their heads on the line. So keep that in mind, for your sake, will you."

Extending a hand. Smiling, a reassuring, leisure smile. "What else is there in the Badlands? To die or strive, I'm in this completely."

"Some would call you a fool for that, you know." Taking him by the arm, past his wrist.

"Maybe... but they would be even bigger fools, not to accept this ideal, completely." I watch them shake firm. An agreement made in the eyes by almost every witness here. For whatever Draesus just did, it sounds like it is an all or nothing gamble for him. One, he seems contempt on making.

"Oh, one more thing-" His smile still showing. "-You wouldn't happen to have an available cell with some iron-ore shackles her size now, would you? I have a feeling my prizefighter is gonna be a tad restless when she wakes."

<<>>

In rhythmic breathing, my senses came back to me once more and this time, there wasn't anything getting in my way to form a coherent thought. A will, to set into motion. And testing that slight will this time, I call to him. I call, to my spirit.

'Zangetsu...?' Reaching again, like before.

'I am here.' He immediately responds. Letting me know he's here with me, as I feel him.

His voice, somewhat reassuring.

Pushing to focus, to clear my thoughts. I slowly found my eyes opening up in a daze. Until they could finally focus and brought in the perception of myself, into the embrace of someone, I wasn't expecting of waking up to.

"Ebony..." I felt, myself weak. My voice... low.

"Easy. Try not to talk." She tells me. Her eyes betraying her while she wears that normal neutral expression, like always. A bit of worry within them, for I never would have thought she could show such an emotion. Looking past her, to the others around, something was off. Like, way, way off. Why was there a ceiling over my head? Why do the wall's here, feel suffocating? Is Violet actually unconscious on the ground? Why is she unconscious? Why does this room remind me of hell, a little? And why do my feet feel exposed?

A toe wiggles.

Not feeling the comforts of my shoes. Nor the touch of soft fabric that should be on them but instead, the hard rocky sensation of a bottom's floor.

Are we--are we in a cell?! The thought passes. Moving to sit up, my muscles spasms in protest. Unable to regain their once normal function. Trying again, I felt sluggish to move.

Restrained.

"What the...?" Finding my hands encased in metal. Bound together, in an iron shackle. "The fuck is this!" A burst of rage, spiking my body into wake. Hustling me up, on my own two legs. I nearly croak by the effort but stood weary, none the less. Looking around again this time, examining the surroundings I was in--in clearer focus. Ebony spoke up again this time, in an attempt to calm me down.

But I ignored it.

Whatever she was spouting phased right through me. As I was in another fucking cell. Another fucking containment. Much to my chagrin.

..and I hated it.

"Reyna!!" Someone shouts. Spilling me into alerted-ness.

Looking to who, I found it was Silver this time who spoke. However, he was reflecting a different facial image I've never seen dawn on him before, till now. The fear in his eyes upon looking at me... and the slight tinge of something green burning within them... reflected a small trace of myself, in an unsettling perception.

Correcting himself immediately, he spoke in a calming voice of tone. "There's no need for that. You can relax. You're in safe company, now."

"Wha-what happened? Where are we?" I started to pace around in spot.

"We'll tell you, but first, just take it easy will ya. I didn't peg you as the small-space type." I heard a familiar voice, joke. Looking at him, I saw him smile at me in a welcoming manner. "Cause if you're scared, then I guess we're all screwed then, huh?"

'Scared?! What's he on about?'

'Your breathing heavy, dumbass. Control yourself.'

'Levy.' I slowly realize the heavy heave in my chest and the contort of muscles on my face. 'Am I--was I scowling, just now?'

Relaxing and feeling my reserves settle down.

In one large and final exhale of breath. I gave myself a moment before speaking to the others. "..Sorry--just, not something I expected of waking up to, is all..." I say, almost uncharacteristically.

"..It's alright. I don't think any of us would want to either." I faced Ebony. "At least your awake and we're mostly together, now."

"Mostly?"

Looking around again, she was right. Someone was missing and I didn't even give him a thought till now.

Apparently, the only source of light we were getting through the rust of metal bars, was from the torches posted up in the halls; and they didn't help much to illuminate the dark cell we were in. That and I wasn't even sure if it was night or day out, given the fact that there wasn't a window or somewhat of a small crack in the walls, to indicate the time. Luckily for me, the wonders of a phone could come into good use, again, for that.

However, now was not the time.

"Draesus and that band of his are holding Jade, as a bargaining chip against us." This time, on Silver. Leaning back, against the cell's bars with his arms crossed. He was looking out, for something, before back to me. "..They plan to use us as contestants but you specifically, as a marketing cash flow."

"Me?" I repeated dumbly.

"Yes. It could be, that after witnessing the way you fought and killed that Viper yesterday, you unwillingly, must have changed their priority." Looking at him in question. He spoke a bit more; clarifying. "Draesus said they were hunters, did he not. Sounds too much of a nice word to call themselves marauders. Traffickers, even." He scoffs. "The fact that they took us in and held us as captives against our will, and that they were in danger when you encountered them; means that they were the ones after that Viper, to begin with, only to market it off back here in exchange for a decent pay. But since that didn't go as plan, they originally created a scheme in order to knock every one of us out and sell us, as their next means of payment."

He closes his eyes in thought. Halting only for a moment, until he opens them again.

Continuing.

"However, the others; Draesus's men. They only see you as a quick coin to be made but that man... I get the feeling he doesn't see you as something to be sold. Something to be exchanged or bargained with but perhaps, as something to build him up... An essential piece in a long game, he's playing. Even if it means he'll be taking on whatever huge risks, himself."

"Risks? What risks? And contestants to what?!" Leaving me ever so, with more questions.

"We overheard him talking to someone named Khuruk. From what I gathered, I think he's the one who runs this place. And it's most likely, we'll have to fight in a ring, to stay alive when tomorrow comes-."

My mouth doing it again. Moving on its own accords, as I knew exactly what this was. Another. Fucking. Pit. Noticing that he pauses again this time and the subtle looks on everyone's faces, I cooled the rage within me that seemed to be growing.

'I really don't want to be here...' Another thought passes.

Picking up the pace again after a moment.

"..Whatever arrangement Draesus made, he was willing to bet everything he has. Everything, he's willing to risk on, in order to succeed, and if that wasn't annoying enough--he's willing to use Jade against us, in order to do it."

"Why Jade? Why not Violet and is she seriously asleep?" I ask.

In a tired sigh. "He's reached his limits. He's done and exhausted, all due to the extreme heat and miles of hiking through the terrain, while carrying Violet over his shoulders. And this one-" Leaning off the bars, making his way over to the sleeping girl. "-is just about trying my patience. How long are you gonna pretend to be asleep for, huh?" Patting her stomach with a few light kicks. Getting her to stir.

"Stop. Your gonna make me throw up." Her voice, a mess of both tiredness and queasiness. "Hurp! Yep, I think I'm gonna-" She didn't get to finish that sentence. Since instead, something else came up and out of that mouth of her's.

"Let this be a lesson to you, then. When I say have some control over the amount you consume, I don't mean several filled mugs back-to-back." Stepping away.

In heavy breathing. "..T-technically it was eight... and it's not my fault, they were just so goo-hurp!" Heaving again, a much worse coloration.

"Technically speaking, I don't care. The point remains." Returning to the bars. While Ebony moves over to Violet and kneels down, rubbing the poor specimen's back of over drinking, as she lets it go. The entire consumption. Having me screen my nose up away a bit, from the smell of it.

"Ugh, you can definitely hold your liquor,-" I saw Blaze cover his mouth. "-but not in a good way for long." His face making a ghastly expression, before turning around quick and pacing his breathing. My guess, in feeling himself about to hurl from the display.

Raising my metal cuffs in studying my predicament. I went over to Silver and stood beside him. Wondering exactly what our leader plans on doing about this whole fucked up situation, we now find ourselves in. "Got any bright ideas in that head of yours or are those looks just for show? What are we going to do?" Wanting to flex a finger.

Looking at me, then on to my cuffs. "Can you get yourself free?" Asking, as if to know.

"Yea, most definitely. More than anything right now, I want to bust out of these but I won't. Not unless you have something or part of a plan at least... y-you do have a plan, don't you?" One of my brows raises, in questioning.

In passing moments and I guess in a quiet-meaningful stare, he speaks to me momentarily. "..I do, but it may not be so simple." Peering through the bars again; this time listening and watching, in caution of any trace of outside movement. Till I spoke.

"You can speak freely, we're alone. The other cells around us are empty and there are only a few guards, patrolling the halls but nowhere near close, to overhear you."

"..If you were any other person, I would question how you would know that but you're not like any other person, now are you?"

"I'm one of a kind. Try not to fall for me, would ya."

Slightly smirking in amusement. "I'll try not to." Turning around in facing the others, speaking to every one of us now. "There may be a way to get us all back to Canterlot. To get us back instantly, without having to deal with the journey back or any threat that may come." Drastically, pulling our attention.

More so, my curiosity. "Really, now. You don't say?"

"However, I'm afraid that in order for us to escape, I'll first need my bag for that." I felt a little perplexed by that statement. Until he explains; telling us something crucial. Something detrimental and vital, that without it, would nearly be impossible, in us escaping. An item, in his bag, that Faust had handed him should the need arise for it and this seemed like a very important time indeed, in need of it. Only problem is...

It's also in the clutches of our captors. So that makes two things we need to get back.

Although... its a shame really, because by the end of all this...

I might not have enough time to savor each and every one of their death.

~<>~

The time had finally arrived.

Approaching in the sounds of multiple footsteps, echoing, in the halls. Signaling, the start of a new day. Another obstacle to be overcome. Giving a slight nudge to Silver and the others, I let them know of the approaching crowd of guards, gathering. More than what was considered or should be, a normal fair amount. Standing in ready eagerness to grip something in hold, I was met with the wry smile of the one who placed me in this conundrum, to begin with.

"Hm, look at that. Already up and at 'em, just itching to fight. Aren't you?" Finally, facing me on the other side.

"Yea." Stepping up closer to the cell bars. Feeling it again. "So why don't you hurry up and free my hands already, they're starting to feel numb." Showing him my cuffs.

"When we reach near the grounds, I'll be happy too. But in case you don't know all the details, as I'm sure Silver's provided you with, then allow me to explain the situation your now in, clearly. All of you." The others stood in place, sharing a displeasing mood besides me. Especially Violet, for someone else besides me actually had the word murder, on them they wanted to express. Badly.

Noticing the intense feel and the cold glare from a certain someone, he chuckles, almost in amusement.

"From here on out, each one of you is my prizefighter. My gladiators, in combat. So, if you want to make it out of here alive, I suggest you fight as hard and as ruthless as possible because if you don't. Well, I guess dying really isn't much of an option for you now, is it?" Leaning ever forward on the bars. Resting on them, as he continued. "Especially, if you leave Jade all alone with the comforts of my men. I'm not sure they like him very much. Might just sell him as scraps to feed the other beasts, locked up in here?"

"That, and its your head on the line if we lose, correct?" Approaching the cell bars, as well. Cascading an annoyed look. "We may have a lot to lose but so do you, don't you? Would be a shame if whatever your scheming were to fall apart right at the beginning, wouldn't it?"

"Heh. Yes. Yes, it would."

"Then quit wasting our time and let's get on with this." Our leader taking point.

"You too, huh? Gotta say, I wasn't expecting this change in attitude." His eyes narrowing.

"Well, it's like you said. Dying isn't an option. Neither is leaving my squadmate alone, with the rest of your... cohorts."

"I see." Leaning off. Stepping to the side. "The rest of you can get out first." He ushers, as a guard with makeshift keys, opens, the door to the cell. "But not you...you'll have to come out last." His larger index points to me. Seeing no choice or a reason to argue, I did what the man said.

Backing up, away from the open door. I waited as one by one, everyone got out of the cell in shackles. Their's, nowhere near as fortuitous as mine. "Now for you." I heard him step in. Through the door and reaching for something from behind. A grating sound of metal falls loosely; as a shackle of an iron chain, swings between their hold from behind him and attached to a curved object, in his hold. A metallic device, worn and used. Spattered in a dry color. And tasked to fit around the nape of someone of my build. My neck. Was in his hands.

Emphasizing clearly, a property's life...

'Ooh, boy.'

*Crack*

It... filthy.

It putrid. Disgusting. Revolting!

The rust of prior blood. The stench that came off it... Vexing.

*Shriek*

It INFURIATING!! As he shows me that fucking smile, while backing me up.

"Be a good girl now and come put this on. Gotta make a good first impression." It opening. Calling to label me like the rest before it... the powerless... The weak. Those without purpose. Those, of fucking property.

"...The hell did you say." Stepping away. My wrath, building. IT... RAGING.

"Leave her be. You already got her shackled." Silver says, beyond the door. "Why continue to taunt her? You've already shown your point."

"Yes but now I want the others to see it as well. I want them, the audience, and any spectator out there waiting, to know; exactly who she belongs to."

*Creak*

"I ain't your Damn dog! You don't own me!" It revving to a hundred.

"As of now, I guess do." The collar widening. Squeaking in utter glee from the years and use of service.

"Don't you dare. Let her be, you bastard!" I heard Blaze screamed out. Before ruffling and fighting in his hold, a larger guard would have him in. The same going for Ebony. For Silver. The hate he gave. The percusses words Violet would scream in a flip, from her once friendly behavior.

"You guys are being very dramatic you know. Remember what I said about playing nice-."

"Fuck you~!! I couldn't give a shit about us playing nice. You are not putting that on me!"

*Creak*

'I ain't going back. I won't allow it! I didn't get out to be some bitch's new plaything.'

'Why are we even tolerating this. Let's just kill him.'

*Crea~aak*

This fire burning. This hate, I've been feeling. This rage... Inflaming.

'I'm not like them. I won't ever be like them. Never. Never, again will I feel that humiliation!'

*Creak*
*Creak*
*Creak!!*

"Huh? What is tha-"

*Crack!*

The shackles giving way, as they too weren't the only thing's that snapped. They hot and smelting, in extreme exhaustion from holding my hands captive. Hitting the floor in a flaming molten cesspool.

Feeling a new surge. One of utter dismal and hunger... savaging in force... but most importantly: Power. Control. It promised both these and more, as I could feel it coursing through my blood. My veins, My hands. It, continuously feeding on this unyielding rage. This pestilence of wrath.

Once free and yearning for activity, my palms ignited in fury. Showering in a color, unlike my unusual spectral green but it too, dark in color. Dark and hot; flaming in a shade of purple. A violet, so beautifully sizzling and alluring, it felt good to the touch.

One, that had me almost completely in awe.

Seeing this in astonishment and sudden surprise. Draesus stumbles back using his left arm to guard his face. However, I'm not particularly in such a good mood, that I lunge at him bearing my fist. Using his right though, and upon contact with the wall behind him. Pillars of stone shot forth and collide into me, sending me back in shock.

"Ugh!" Feeling the hard impact, between the front and my back against a solid surface. Without even thinking. My body reacts in grabbing a pillar embedding in my abdomen and crushes the stone in hot force. Swinging down with my left arm, I quickly severed another pillar pinning my shoulder before moving away quickly, as it grew in length and smacked against the wall that held me.

Going low and dashing in a quick step, whilst maneuvering through multiple projectiles now. I used a pillar to spring myself up, at the ceiling. My body twirling and making the proper adjustments as I pull forth a muscle in my right leg. Propelling me at Draesus hopefully, with enough speed to catch him.

Near him.

Then beside's him. As he was lucky enough to fall out of the way. My strike missing as my right arm and fist were now encased, in through the wall. Holding me up in place, my feet also found themselves to be sticking against its surface as well. A few cracks, showing.

Weird it was for Draesus, to stare at me. To look at me. Weird so, for the other wardens or guards or whoever the fuck they were, too, as well. For, I doubt any of them have ever seen anyone like me before. Someone with burning rage. Clear in showing that she's not some pet.

My available fingers clawing the wall. Leaving an impressionable, lasting, mark.

Something too, that will last on him. When he's long dead.

"No! Let me go!" I heard Violet scream. Looking past him. Through the cell. Past the stationed guards. Was another Mino, who had Violet at knifepoint. No one special, except for the missing horn on his head... someone I think I met back in the desert.

"You were right... perhaps keeping her was somewhat of a good decision. Especially, since she got you to fall flat on your ass in sheer terror there, Draesus!" Sensing, some scornful humor. Pressing the knife against her cheek, "Now that I enjoyed that little display, care to cool it, Reyna? We have some money to make."

Pulling my arm free and falling counter-clockwise, in sticking the landing. I gradually got up and for once, I could tell the expression on my face was one of utter unpleasantness. Disdain. Of utter...the fuck. Because I next found my voice in an unsettling way.

Not of words. Nor of letters.

But this, growling. This tone, this feeling that was emerging on its own. That is emanating from me.

My fingers extending, my arms opening, and this fire burning even hotter. Engulfing me slightly, reaching and ashing away this jacket by the arms.

Plays in wicked grace.

It was blinding.

"..I am not... some dog... to be toyed with...."

'Forget the plan, we can do it here. We can kill 'em. We can get out of here ourselves.' Her voice talking. Sounding reasonable. 'We can get the bag. The Scroll. Get the hell out of here on our own and just tell Faust they died in some unfortunate event! Why are we waiting?!'

The tips of my fingers aching. Something extending from them. My nails... lengthening.

Trying to weasel back, I glared Draesus hard. Letting him know, it didn't matter. Another move and he's dead. In fact, why wait? He's right here in front of me. My sanity... cleaving. Tearing to shreds as this body spurs on its own.

"Didn't you hear what I said! This isn't a debate!" Blood drew.

Running down the steel of the sharp piece in hand. Getting a reaction from Violet as she was on the verge of something. Between fear and a tear in her eyes.

"Enough! Reyna! Don't give them any further reason as is!" I heard Silver, shout. Held, hold in captive. Saying something now than the last minute this shit started.

"Please, do as he says! I know you don't want to but Azan will kill Violet before you can even get a chance to reach him. Before you can reach any of them!" Ebony voiced in concern. The plan and script running off course.

'So what? She's saying that we should be bound?! Please, Queen, tell me we're not actually buying into this crap. They Need us. They need us to escape. They are powerless here, on their own without us!!'

"Hate to say it but please... don't let them hurt Violet." I saw Blaze's Expression. My sudden snarl in aggravation. "I know! It sucks and if I could, I would switch with you in a second! I would! But they're not messing around. Trust me, more than anything, I wanna stick it to these A-holes but not if it is going to get you killed. Or her. Come on!" His voice pleading, but almost in a saddening way.

"Haha. Why don't you listen to them? There's merit, to your friend's words." Moving to posture himself. Almost in rising from the earth below, but standing over him now. He sat his ass back down.

This fire, raving. Scorching down my sides and cooking up this sweatbox of a cell. This Dungeon.

'KILL THEM! Kill 'em. Kill 'em. Kill 'EM!! It'll be quick. It'll be easy.' Something in her rising. Something, as well.

Lighting the walls in immersive violet flames, behind me.

"Woah!"
"Agh!"
"Move back!"

I heard a couple of men shout. Backing up away in fear, from the cage. They breathless, as they point their spears in my direction. All the while, I stood over him. Seeing me for who I am. For what I'm really like. This girl of a monster with fangs, greater than anything in here. Than any predator, he's ever faced.

"Reyna..."

A soft voice whispers.

Screening my view up, slightly.

"It's ok." A tear runs down. With the embrace of a soft demeanor. It nothing to me. It of little meaning. It of an ignorant, stupid, look. It of the weak.

And yet...

"It's fine. Go ahead and let loose. Just make them pay, in my stead for me. Okay?" Why does that placid smile hold some meaning to me? Why does she...

'WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!! An invitation or something?! Kil-'

Someone else steps in. Drawing her back. The echoes of her screams of reasoning--recedes immediately, to the back of my mind.

'...Zangetsu.' The world pauses.

Stepping out of me almost like in some theatrical play; fully coming to terms with reality, as he appears more in-depth. The ol' man turns nonchalantly towards me. His gaze, studying these flames of mine almost in watchful eye.

"..it seems you've unlocked something new...one of great power. Reyna."

"Seems so. Perfect timing too, to fry these fuckers."

"And them as well?" He looks at Violet. To Ebony. To Blaze. And lastly, on Silver. The emotion of fear, panic, and concern on their faces. Just waiting to be said.

"What of them? I know now how to get back to Canterlot." I said dismissively.

"And what would you tell Faust? What will you do if she starts asking questions, you can't provide an answer for? What will you do if you can't even use this form of teleportation? This scroll?"

"Then I'll figure something out!" My power, dissipating. "I have always, and if it means trucking through that fucking sea of sand, then so be it!"

"And then what?" Looking to me. "You get out of here, escape the city, traverse the desert, kill whatever threat we may encounter, and then what? Just keep searching for a new way out. To escape an even larger prison? If that's the case, then you should have just stayed in Hell."

I lunge at him. Reigning him in, by his coat. "Why would you even say that?! You know as much as I, it was never even a choice. It was worse there?!!" Shaking him by his attire. "You share my memories but that's all you have! You share them... But you've never lived them!! So how would you know..." Feeling a sting in the corner of my eye. Rubbing it away almost immediately, to never show it.

"How would you know what it was like to be shackled? Without rest? Without sleep? Without food? Without being able to even take a shit in piece, it was hell!! More fearsome than anything! Than any nightmare! Compared to it, nothing comes close to even describing the way it was. SO WHY WOULD YOU SAY THAT?! You're my spirit, aren't you? TELL ME WHY, DAMNIT?!!"

I gripped, hard. Holding tight. Never imaging he could say something like that so casual like. He is my spirit right?... then why?

"Don't go mute on me now. Answer me Zangetsu!" I needed to hear him. I wanted to know.

Looking down on me, through his visor. Only one of his eyes was clear through, that thick veil of shades.

*Sigh* Exhaling a breath.

Reaching with his left, he gently touches my forearm. Holding, but never squeezing me tight. "You are right. I don't know and for that, I am sorry." Stepping in closer. Beginning to silence the gap between us.

"What are you-" He pushes into me. His right arm wrapping around while his left still holds my right hand, gently.

"I am sorry you had to endure that alone. I am sorry for all that's happened to you and to what just transpired here. I'm sorry, that I waited this long to even ask how you were feeling..." Wrapping me now, in both holds. Resting his chin against the top of my head. "I am sorry... I only care for your well being and it's all I'll ever want for you... It was wrong of me to even say, such a thing."

Leaving me paused. Because I didn't know where to go from this.

He, just so...comforting. My grip tightening. Never letting go.

"I shall never do so, again."

"..You promise?"

"..I do."

"..."

"...."

"..Then I'll hold you to it." I look up, under him. "But never, and I mean ever, do you speak like that to me again. My past isn't something I can just bring up, so casually. Let alone, reminiscence about. I know I said we can talk about it from time but..."

"I understand. It won't-"

"Just don't do it again!... that's all I ask. Okay." Peering into his brown eyes. Before pushing myself away, or else I'll become enticed.

Once free and my back to him. "..as you wish."

Nothing but silence remained. Picking back up, its unspoken volume. Leaving us trapped, in this quiet limbo.

It still puzzled me how we can interact in such a way when everything else becomes still. Did time actually pause? Or was it everything else that came into paralyzes. A strange ability Ichigo had.

..Or is it more so Zangetsu?

"Reyna..." He begins to walk past me. Standing over the image of a petrified worry, Draesus. Before him. "I know you don't want to hear it but... you can't kill Draesus. At least, not yet."

"You can't be serious, why shouldn't I?! He deserves death."

"Then if that is what you truly desire, I will not stop you. But I ask, at what cost?" He motions in front, of one of the cell's bar. "Do you even remember what I said the other night? About being the type of mercenary you want to be... about what actions you take, defines you? Do you really want to remember yourself, as the one who failed her first assignment?" He points to Violet. "That you couldn't even live up to the expectation of a queen. A goddess, in fact."

Then on to Silver.

"That you couldn't even protect her soldiers." To Ebony, "Her people." To Blaze, "Her, citizens." He walks to me. Standing finally, face to face, again.

"Let her know what kind of a person you are, as you've shown them. Be greater. Be strong, as you've always been. Bring them back alive and you'll show Faust, and them, the importance of your worth... your will."

That talk and calming voice of tone... somewhat warming; just to hear him say. Yet, my eyes can't help but to look away. Just for a moment, anyways, before I speak about the trouble that got me into this funk. This state of mind.

"Zangetsu... I hear you. I hear what you are saying but... to do this. To follow through with their original means of escape, might lead to things I swore I'd never feel again. Things, I don't ever want to go through... I'm not sure I'm strong enough as I once was, to go through that kind of experience, again."

My heart skipped. What was this rubbish? This nonsense of talk.

"I don't-fuck- I don't-"

"You are stronger than you know!" His sudden outburst, dropping me senseless. "So don't say otherwise. You are my master. The strongest person I know."

"..I'm the only one you know." Correcting him.

"The only one who fought her way out of hell and done the impossible. The woman--the fighter--the warrior...I know you to be. You've handled worse. I know you can again. I believe in you. So never, think otherwise."

"..Together forever, till the end. Right?"

He immediately nods. "Even if it means, to the end of time. I will always be with you."

I smile.

I just couldn't help it. Just somehow talking with him seems to have calmed me down. Even if, for a little.

Shit.

Getting me all flustered.

I threw a jab, hitting him in the chest but not too impactful or rough.

"Thanks, Zangetsu... I think I can get through this now." I sigh. "Just wish things were under different circumstances is all and that I could forget this." Beginning to move back into position. Standing tall and fierce over Draesus. "Oh well." Making the choice to resume script. To get out. Together.

"Someday... you will." He walks off. Leaving me to know the world runs its course.

"..I can only dare to hope." I said jokingly. Knowing better.

"I said to halt! Don't you care what happens to your friend here?!" The voice, the man with the knife to Violet's face ushers out, cutting clean. Azan. "I will slit her throat. Don't mess with me. I wil...Wha-what happened to the fire? Where did the flames go?!"

I said nothing. But instead, offered one last look at him. To Draesus. Before gritting in frustration, as I put my hands up in the air. Walking back slowly, away from him. Solely regretting, this taken action already.

"You win... I'll... I'll comply. Just don't hurt her." My gaze on Azan. "If you want someone to punish, then punish me. I'll take whatever it is. Just don't hurt them. I'll get you your money in the ring, I swear." Waiting for his next action. Although, it didn't take long for him to respond.

"That so? Then get on your knees..." Testing me. Not lighting up on the knife's pressure. Blood trickling.

In another heavy sigh and turmoiling inner regrets. I get down on one knee as the rest of my body follows the motion.

"Now lay down." He says. I follow his order, soon after. "If you move even the slightest, I'll kill her." Knowing he speaks true. Closing my eyes, it was this time I heard someone rise. Opening them, I could tell it was Draesus. Even though I wasn't looking towards him but at a charred up wall, I could tell by his presence alone. He was near me. Near and furious.

"No more games! It's about time you learn your place. Exactly who it is, you belong too!" He crushes me. Pinning his entire leg's weight on top.

"Ngh!" Pulling the back of my hair. Reigning my head to his whim.

"And I'm going to make sure you learn it, now."

*Squeak* The sound of a collar shutting tight, around the base of my neck. Labeling me too, as a property.

Slamming my head back down. "Get me something stronger than iron-ore! And bring me another fucking collar. One specifically, for her mouth. She is not pulling that stunt twice, on me, again!" I can hear his voice seethe in rising anger. It now, showing itself after that little humiliation. "If you had behaved, I would have treated you differently but now, I see that was clearly a mistake on my half. I underestimated your strength; to treat you, other than anything but like a 'dog', an animal, was entirely my fault. I'll make sure not to do so, again."

Applying more pressure and hearing me strain, from under him.

"I'll take better care not to make that same mistake. I'll treat you as you are and over time, I will break you. You'll be begging for forgiveness when I'm done with you." Turning my head to the side. I flashed him a grin on my right. In return, he picks my head up and slams me back down. Doing it a second and third time, not liking my gesture. Too bad.

"Oh, so now you want to kill her. What happened to using her as revenue?" Azan says, in a mocking tone.

"Shut up!! This is nothing more, than a little taste for her."

"Yea? Well. why don't we leave her unscathed for now so she can stay alive long enough, to get us what we want? I mean, she's about to head out after all. She might get a beaten, by the challengers Khuruk set up in sequence. So why don't you leave it to them to ruffle her up, a little." I look ahead and see him pass off Violet, to another guard.

"Hmm." Hearing him think. Before he picks me up, waiting a moment, then slams me down. Hard. One final time. "Fine, but she'll need to be cleaned up first."

"More like she'll need a healer now. Why would you do that?!" Standing close to the cell.

"Because I felt like it." Re-posturing himself over me. "And because I knew she could take it. She did punch through that wall over there, less you forget. Do you know many who can do that?"

Facepalming in disbelief, "Whatever. This was your plan, to begin with. And your plan, if she loses. So at least there's a win in it for me, either way."

"Yes... I imagine so. If I were to lose, you'll no doubt be doing me a favor, in taking care of the annoying infants outside."

"Hah. Ain't that the truth. At least then, I'll be calling the shots when you're gone."

'..Seriously. I have to hear this shit now.'

'Well, you wouldn't have to, if you had just-' She disappears. Once again, unable to finish her sentence. Zangetsu, doing his work.

Much, to my gratitude.

However, that soon disappeared by the clang and shift of metal drawing close.

They were here. The men Draesus ordered, returning with a new set of tools. And just by seeing one of them, reminded me of a painful memory, of a demon practitioner, in hell. A twisted, bondage, sex-creep of a fucker, he was. With a sick-fix for the darker parts of role-playing, with certain inmates; in their cell's.

And I guess history, is about to repeat itself...

...

..to illustrate, I can never get far enough away.

Author's Note

Hey guys, I know it's been a while. Sorry. Just had to work the kinks out and development of the story. Never thought the chapter would take this long or be this...in depth. But I do hope that you enjoyed it and if not, feedback is greatly appreciated. Always.

Important Notes:
1. Yes, Reyna has unlocked her Chaos Force but is yet to test it. Also, I gave it a color unlike Shadow's own, just to differentiate it from ghost energy.

1. I like purple and thought purple flames were cool. Also, I thought chaos energy should take on the color of its user. Describing their traits, skills, and character. Ya know.
   
2. Not really a three but let me know what you think. Again, I hope you enjoyed and if there are any questions pertaining to the story so far feel free to ask.

Later!