The Aurian Chronicles Chapter 25: End of the line Part 1

 Lyte revved her motorcycle and smiled softly as she looked at Darkness. "Runs beautifully, bro!" She said as she charged it with her aura, causing it to glow bright with neon lights. She got on it and mounted her gear to it so she'd be ready for her concert.

Darkness just huffed a bit. "I still don't like that I am missing your final concert... You KNOW how much I prefer to attend them." He said as he looked down, only for Lyte to hold his hand and smile. "Look, bro, I know you love supporting me... And believe me, I love it too! But we got stuff to take care of! I'll be fine... You can trust me." She said with a grin.

After a brief pause. Darkness just nodded and stepped back. "Fucking knock 'em dead, sis! You got this!" He said with a bright grin. Lyte nodded and got on her bike, revving it as she zoomed off into the night. Darkness let out a happy sigh and turned to Silver as she packed her silver-plated submachine guns. "Alright, let's get moving!"

Silver nodded. "We doing the hospital first?" She asked as got in her Jeep. Darkness nodded and stood in the back seat. "YUP! I've put this shit off long enough... I want my friend back." He told her with a smile. Silver giggled and nodded as she turned the keys in the ignition. "God I love it when you smile like that. Alright, my love, hang on!" She exclaimed as they blasted out of their driveway.

While the drive to the hospital only took fifteen minutes, it felt like hours to darkness as he held the syringe in his hand. visions of the monster NNI had turned him into were running rampant through his mind right now as he hopped out of his car. "Silver... are we making the right choice? are we sure this is actually going to help Xaldin?" He asked worriedly.

Silver went to answer, but she saw black cars filling up the driveway and saw a man in a suit with a golden pocket watch get out. "Well, you better hurry up and figure it out, Darkness. Farley's men are here. She said as she saw him immediately go for his guns. "No, I'll move the jeep for a good getaway, you get to Xaldin before they get to either of you.. quick!" She said quietly.

Darkness glared at the men getting out of the cars and nodded. "Right, be back soon, my love." He said as he jumped out of the jeep and voided through a wall. He moved low to the ground and quiet as he noticed a trail of dead medical staff and Farley's men still looking around. 'Lucky they never asked what room Xaldin was in before they started going to work... I'm starting to see why Mr. Capryse only hires specialized mercenaries.' He thought to himself as he quietly snuck into Xaldin's room.

Darkness saw Xaldin giving him a lost smile. "H-hi, First Sergeant." They said weakly as they looked at him weakly. Darkness gulped and tried not to look them in the eyes as he slowly put together the Sniper Rifle Mr. Capryse gifted him. "We're getting out of here Xaldin... You're coming with us." He said slowly as he laid the rifle out before taking Xaldin's hand.

The noise outside started getting louder as Darkness heard nearby doors being forced open and shot up. "It looks like I'm out of time... if this doesn't work... I'm sorry." He said as he stuck the syringe into Xaldin's arm and pushed the plunger. As the injection finished, a hitman busted into the room. 

Darkness tried to summon his scythe, but was kicked back against the wall. "THEY'RE IN HERE!" Called out the hitman as Darkness kicked him back. As the hitman reached for his gun, a loud BANG erupted as a fifty caliber bullet tore right through the hitman's body. Darkness's ears rang as he looked over to Xaldin, showing a wide smile. 

"That felt... like I always fuckin imagined bitch!" they said as more hitmen showed up. Xaldin aimed again and shot through them all at once. "MULTI KILL! PLAYER ONE GAINED THE LEAD!" They said like a video game announcer as they stood up and looked at Darkness. "Hey Darkness! long time no ACTUAL see!" They said as they stretched.

Darkness just sweated nervously. "Hey Xaldin... uh.. Yeah... like you just saw.. we uh.. gotta." He started before Xaldin cut him off. "We uh buh wha duh duh duh... Is that just how you talk now? Come on! I finally can talk normally for the first time in years, and THIS is all you have to say?" They demanded as their grin tightened wider.

Darkness paused for a bit and took a deep breath before puffing it all out at once. "You're right... Xaldin, it's good to see you again... A lot has happened, and we can't really stay in New York anymore... I got new clothes for you outside, and gear... I can't wait to catch you up afterward. Now. let's go." He said firmly.

There was a bit of an awkward pause before Xaldin nodded. "Okay then, Darkness, I'll head out with you." They told him as Darkness smiled and nodded. As Darkness turned away, he felt his hand being grabbed. "One thing first, though." Said Xaldin right before a fist collided hard into Darkness' face, hard enough to knock him to the floor.

"AH WHAT THE FUCK XAL-" Started Darkness as he saw Xaldin glaring down at him. "NO! SHUT UP! You and I are going to have a bit of a chat before I go ANYWHERE with you!" Said Xaldin as they glared at him. "I was out of it the entire time I was here. But I still heard every time you blamed yourself for what happened to me!" They snarled.

Darkness looked down. "Look.. Xaldin... it was... all a mess that..." He started before Xaldin leaned in closer, "You listen to me and listen well, you bastard. For the past few years, my head has hurt, I feel like two people at once, and all that has been on my mind is you! How DARE you blame YOURSELF for MY sacrifice! My choices were my own... You were my brother! And I'd do it again!" They said with their face pressed against his.

Darkness looked them in the eyes. "I know... I know... that wasn't fair to you, and it wasn't fair to our comrades... I'm done doing that, I promise." He said with determination. Xaldin nodded and helped him up. "Good, now let's fuckin' get outta here! god knows how long it's been since I had a hot dog, and if I'm leaving home, I at least want a few for the road!" They said as they picked their new rifle back up.

Darkness escorted Xaldin throughout the hallway with his handguns out. With the stealth option compromised, he just used void bullets to tear right through Farley's men. "Damn, dude, whose cornflakes did you piss in?" Asked Xaldin with a loud laugh. Darkness rolled his eyes. "Like I said, I'll fill you in later! For now, just lay lead into them!" He yelled as they made their way to the parking garage, where they were surrounded by a full squad of hitmen. 

"Shit.." said Darkness as he raised his guns. "Don't even think about it, asshole! We got you surrounded!" Shouted one of the hitmen as he glared. "Any last words before we dump your bodies in the ocean?" He asked with a grin. Darkness just smirked at him. "Yeah... FLAWLESS!" He shouted from the top of his lungs.

Silver drove up from the side and tore through the squad with her Submachine guns while she smiled. "You're damn right, Flawless... Nice to see you again Xaldin." She said as Darkness stood in the back passenger seat while Xaldin sat in the front passenger seat. "Bitchin save! Nice to see you too, Silver!" They said with a smile. 

Silver just grinned. "Well with pleasantries out of the way, she should make our way to Lyte's concert... things should be ramping up over there as we speak!" She announced, causing Xaldin to blush. "OH! Lyte's going to be there?" They asked, causing Darkness to raise a brow. "Uh, duh? Of course, my sister is coming with us..." He said as Silver giggled a bit. "Oh, love... so adorably naive." She said as she drove off with a confused Darkness and an embarrassed Xaldin in tow.

As they left the hospital. Xaldin got out of their hospital gown and changed into a pair of Army Camouflage pants, a black crop top, a pair of leather boots, and black fingerless boots. They then reached into a bag and pulled out an old Army cap with the word "Xaldin" on the back of it. "You had a custom name patch made for me? Thank you!" They said as they looked back at Darkness.

Darkness just smirked and nodded. "Of course, dude! I know you hated your old name... Hopefully when we get out of here, it'll be just like old times!" He said with a smile. Xaldin nodded. "Totes man! So what's the plan?" They asked with excitement.

As Darkness filled Xaldin in, Silver, just smiled as the old hospital got further and further behind. She knew that this was only the beginning of one part of their lives, but it was also the end of the beginning of the next, and she was just as excited about it as Darkness was.

The Aurian Chronicles Chapter 24: The night before the end of New York

 Darkness wiped the sweat from his brow as he put his tools down. He was in a dirty black tank top and a pair of tattered jeans. He studied his work carefully and checked for imperfections. Over the past couple of weeks, Darkness had downloaded schematics online and used them to build a new motorcycle.

As he cracked open a beer, Lyte came in. "Hey, bro! What 'cha been up to?" She asked as she stretched. She was in a white t-shirt and rainbow pajamas with hot cocoa in hand. Darkness looked up at her and smiled. "Hey sis! been working on your new ride! Gonna fire it up shortly!" He said while revving the bike.

"Oh, cool! What made you decide on a motorcycle?" Asked Lyte curiously. Darkness shrugged and looked at her. "I am looking at it from a strategic point of view, we need something small and fast, this'll have a closeable dome over it that can tank soft fire... though that's more to keep you safe in case of a crash." He explained with a smile.

Lyte raised a brow at the glowing Lights on the new motorcycle. "The heck kind of model did you use? She asked. Darkness just grinned. "Welp! I found the schematics for a project that was scrapped, known as the Hatchet! Then I recreated the engine with combined knowledge of how to make it run off Aura instead of gasoline! The result was an engine that made the bike rev so powerfully, I built the protective dome to keep the windspeed from lifting you off the bike!" Replied Darkness with an excited smile.

"Uh, Bro... I think you might have lost your mind slightly... And wasn't that project scrapped because the top speed of the bike was so fast that it caused the bike to become inoperable? I read online too, you know..." She retorted. As she placed her hand on a red spot on the bike's console, it let out a bright rainbow of energy in response.

Darkness grinned brighter. "That's because they didn't have the know-how! I DO! This baby uses aura as a power source,  negating the fuel consumption argument! And I took your powers and aesthetics in mind so you can hook your gear to this baby! Just give her a chance when the time is right, and you'll see what I mean!" He said as he grinned.

Lyte couldn't help but giggle at how happy Darkness looked. "Good lord, look at you! I've seen a consistent change in your attitude and demeanor... It's been refreshing, I have to admit... Alright, big bro.. I'll take her to the concert for a test drive... For you." She promised as she hugged him tight. He just hugged her back before retiring to his room so he could be ready for his big day tomorrow.

Silver was happily waiting in sky blue lingerie with fishnets while lying on the bed, winking at Darkness as he came in. "Coming to bed, love?" She asked as Darkness sat by her, "Boy, you have been increasingly lovey-dovey." He told her as he rubbed her chin gently, only for her to sit full weight in his lap. "Look, the stress of my job. and keep you and Lyte happy takes a toll on me, and this is my BEST source of stress relief, you bet your ass I'm taking full advantage of the peace tonight!" She said as she looked in his eyes.

Darkness raised a brow. "Yeah, it's something I've been meaning to ask... I haven't before because I just love you and want to give my wife what she wants... but ever since I came back full stop, you are like... ALWAYS ready to go, is there something we need to talk about, or some bigger reason your sex drive has increased?" He asked curiously?" 

Silver just casually undressed both herself and Darkness as she sank down on him and pressed her forehead to his. "Mi amore, Sex was the last thing we did as a couple before I saw you... I never pursued anyone else, I never THOUGHT of anyone else... All I wanted was the next day, when I could have you in my arms again... Sex is a physical way of letting me know you still want me as your wife." She said as she grunted and rocked her hips hard on him.

Darkness held her tight and kissed her neck, causing her to moan and press her white nipples into his chest. "You know you'll ever be the only person to me... No one could ever tolerate the broken mess I was like that... I wouldn't even want anyone else..."

"I know that my love... But my body doesn't, when we're far apart, the urges get stronger and stronger... just call it a side effect of loving you too much." She said as she rocked harder on him, as he dropped down as hard as she could on him, gritting her teeth as he finished inside her. She cuddled him close and breathed heavily as she felt her own orgasm coming as well, before panting from the afterglow.

"And the massive amount of porn you think I don't see on your computer?" He questioned with a smirk, causing her to smack him goofily upside the head as the flush of embarrassment on her face left her an adorable shade of ruby red. "What I do in my own spare time is MY thing, I don't question your drinking habits!" She said as she puffed her cheeks out.

Darkness broke out laughing as he held her close and nodded. "Hey, hey, hey! I wasn't shaming you, just teasing you.... Pervert." He said jokingly, only to wince as Silver whacked his head rapidly before mounting up again. "Just for that, I'm taking advantage of the FULL night, try not to die, My love!" She said with a deeper Spanish voice. Darkness just let out a nervous laugh as he gripped her waist and glided his hands along the curves of her flawless bottom as he gave Silver her last perfect night in New York.

Meanwhile, Kayla smiled softly as she relaxed in Blood Angel's home. It looked like a beautiful mansion that once stood tall and proud in Long Island, but now was the source of inspiration for cheap horror movies. Dried blood was coated everywhere, dirt and grime were smeared across every hallway, and human remains left uncleaned were scattered about.

"I must say, my dear Blood Knight, you could do with a tad of cleaning up!" She said as she looked at Blood Angel, who was enjoying a fancy steak dinner, it seemed to be the only beautiful thing in the whole house. "Don't worry, the fire will clean it all when I leave... per your request, I collected enough blood to fuel my power for a very long trip... You sure you don't want to just confront Darkness now?" He asked curiously.

Kayla giggled and shook her head. "No... Let him close the finishing chapter of this book before he opens a new one. I've a feeling something even BETTER will come when the time arises... Just be ready to move when he does, and leave no trace of your presence here; we don't need anyone asking questions later." She advised. Blood Angel just nodded and continued to eat as he fantasized about the next duel with Darkness and his next encounter with Lyte. "Soon my Prismatic Princess... You will dance with me in the Pale moonlight after bread and circuses with your brother." He said happily.

"Such a peaceful night." Said Mr. Capryse as he smirked while looking over Manhattan from the top of the Empire State Building. "Soon... The entirety of my beautiful state will be plunged into utter chaos. My foolish colleagues will make their petty squabbles public... and everything will burn... but from those ashes... A beautiful Phoenix made of hellfire will rise, and bless the survivors with a new age of peace... Or curse them with new horrors? It makes no difference, it'll be fun either way." He said as he opened a box of pizza he bought from a diner and watched the car lights from down below.

The Verdant Hawk: An ice melting smile!

 "I'm telling you, Tristan, it's like the best place I've ever been! They seem to really care about making sure the people who go are very relaxed!" Said Celeste with a wide smile that showed her extended canines. She was wearing a white shirt with a smiley face that had "G.R.I.N" written on it.

Tristan stroked his chin as he pulled up the Spa on his computer. "I have to admit, it DOES sound quite lovely, but this Lydia Hysteria... She isn't just a higher-up employee; she's the CEO! Why on Reona is she all the way down here in Pink Top City if the company is up north? Does that not raise suspicion?" He asked as he looked to Celeste and Deimos.

Deimos just scoffed. "Who even really cares about her? A spa is a spa... We had a good time at the one we went to... Remember?" He asked. Tristan lowered his eyelids at his former partner. "I remember you pushing me into things I didn't want to do and maybe ten to fifteen percent of that time actually being relaxing... You're not really helping the case here, Deimos!" He said bitterly, causing Deimos to look down at his feet.

Celeste shook her head. "Well, you won't have to worry about that at all! Unless you sign up for the couples experience, it's something you go through alone! Trust me, when I left, I wanted to immediately go back again! Getting my full body heated up, rubbed down, and massaged? Heck, I might go back again with you if you go! She exclaimed as she bounced on the tips of her toes.

Tristan pondered the idea for a bit before shrugging. "Honestly, the idea still raises a lot of suspicions for me. But I suppose a nice day by myself would help ease the tension I've felt after everything we've been through." He stated. Deimos just grumbled, "Why can't we try the spa we went to together again?" He offered. "Because I actually want to relax this time and not have another moment ruined by your negativity." He responded. 

Deimos had a hurt look on his face, but maintained his composure. "I'll at least drive you there, if it IS a trap, I can be backup." He offered. Tristan narrowed his eyes at him. Celeste just shrugged and left the decision to him. "... Fine, but you're on thin ice with me, and you of all people know how well versed I am in THAT Concept." He stated, causing Deimos to just nod sheepishly as they got in Deimos' car.

Tristan was easily impressed by the sheer size of the building as Deimos drove into the parking lot, and Celeste happily parked beside them. "And here I thought Celeste was exaggerating a bit... All this for a SPA?!" He marveled as they stepped into the building. Deimos folded his arms and frowned at the idea of Tristan doing this alone. "I still think it's weird you're doing this alone," he muttered.

Celeste rolled her eyes at Deimos. "Sounds like you want to go with him and are just salty you don't get to," She pointed out. Deimos just scowled at her and scoffed. "I don't recall asking your opinion, so fucking save it." He muttered. Celeste just glared right back at him. "Look after all that shit you've pulled? You're lucky I never beat the hell out of you! And if you REALLY want to prove yourself to Tristan, how about you ACT like a supporting partner for once in your life!" She exclaimed with venom in her voice.

That shut Deimos up as he just watched Tristan converse with the attendant, who had a warm smile on his youthful face. The attendant smiled as he guided him to the scanner Tristan went through. Tristan could only flush bright red as his feet were the brightest spots. "What does this mean exactly?" He asked in an embarrassed tone.

The attendant was about to open his mouth, only for Celeste to speak up. "It means you are in for the most relaxing feet treatments of your life!" She promised. The attendant chuckled and nodded as he guided him to the clothing rack to get fitted for his latex suit. Tristan put it on and admired himself as he looked in the mirror. He then noticed that the attendant was wearing a similar bodysuit, except it was under his actual uniform, which consisted of a vest and white foam sandals with purple cushioning on the inside.

"Here's your keycard. Make sure to walk into the room where the keycard vibrates to! The number should also appear on the card it syncs up with! Please enjoy your stay at G.R.I.N! Because Great Relaxation Is a Necessity!" He said with a smile. Tristan politely nodded and walked through the designated hallway.

"This place feels a bit like a cult when they say their motto like that." Said Tristan uncomfortably as he walked ahead. "But... Celeste swears by this place, so the least I can do is give it a chance." He told himself before his Keycard lit up and vibrated. He walked through the automated door and sat in a chair that was outstretched over a small pool of bubbling water.

As he sat down, Tristan flinched as his ankles were locked into place while small laser dots focused on his feet. "What in the-?" He asked as he saw a picture of his feet that the scanner showed off. As he looked in the room, he noticed the room was a light shade of purple with a lot of smiles painted all over the walls, they formed arrows that pointed directly into the pool, where a machine slowly rose out of the water.

The machine extended a bunch of hoses from its base, including an oxygen mask that pressed into Tristan's face, making him breathe a scent of fresh peppermint tea while the other hoses sucked up water and applied some white, grainy powder to brushes. "Epsom salt?" Asked Tristan as the brushes pressed into his soles and spun, causing him to jerk and wiggle as he laughed, only to moan in pleasure as the brushes pressed harder to turn from tickling into a full-on scrubbing at his sensitive spots.

"It's... It's acting like a Callous scrubber! It's exfoliating my feet!" Said Tristan as he saw his feet shine bright while a stronger scent of peppermint filled his nose. "This is the best I've felt in a long time!" He said as he finally stopped struggling. After his Feet were shining bright from the treatment, the restraints around his ankles finally released him and let him up.

"Well, that was... alarming at first, but I can't deny that I enjoyed that." Said Tristan as he walked ahead. After a few rooms had past, he felt the familiar sensation of his card vibrating. "I hope this one is at least a bit less... Restraining." He said as he stepped inside the next room. As he walked in, he saw a massage bed with a different machine hanging from the ceiling, a hole was in the bed for him to rest his face. "This feels more like it!" He exclaimed as he laid down.

A machine lowered and slowly dispensed warm peppermint oil onto his back as a rotating trio of massagers focused on his stress spots. Tristan was a bit puzzled at the lack of living masseuses, but shrugged as he relaxed. "This isn't all bad, but I miss the actual living element of a spa..." he said to himself as the massagers sped up when hitting the really sensitive spots on his sides. He saw stars as he almost passed out from the pleasure.

Tristan smiled a bit as he strutted happily along the hallway. "Oh my! I somehow feel even taller after that massage! I must have been piling on more stress than I thought!" He said to himself as his card lit up to a a hot spring. This particular hot spring had the same warning to leave his outfit on as he entered the water, but it looked virtually nothing like the one that Celeste was in. The water was a beautiful glowing blue, and the visuals were lit up to make it look like a hot springs somehow magically found out in a snowy villa.

Tristan felt hypnotized by the sheer beauty of the 3d effects as he relaxed in the water. As he did, a strong peppermint mist filled the room as the bubble features vibrated the water. "Ohhh myyy," He said dizzily as the features showed off beautiful men and women, having simulated conversations. Between the relaxing soak and the bright, youthful looks on the fake people, Tristan found himself trapped in a powerful illusion of socializing with the 'People' around him.

After about an hour and a half, Tristan was fully dressed and happily strolling back to the main lobby, where Celeste was bragging to a bored Deimos about how her masseuse really knew her stuff. "Hello, Celeste!" He said with a wide grin, one Celeste returned eagerly. "Enjoy your treatment? I got a massage myself." She said with a smile.

"Yeah, and she wouldn't shut up about-" Started Deimos, but Tristan just moved closer to Celeste. "You got an actual person? I was hoping for something like that myself... in fact, I would call it my one nitpick about this place!" Said Tristan. Celeste just shrugged, "Things around here have been a bit on the risky side when dealing with people, so free treatments get the employee interaction parts taken out, but if you want a membership, you can actually PICK your masseuse! I am hoping to get Jaxon to do a couples treatment with me!" She explained with excitement.

Tristan nodded as she talked, "I see... that does make sense, especially in Pink Top... I should say, I'll definitely be buying a membership of my own if that's the case! Who knows, maybe I'll get a couple's treatment of my own one day!" He said with excitement. Deimos lit up, "I'd love to do that with you, Tristan!" He said happily. Tristan's smile almost faltered at Deimos' voice. "Start acting like you actually mean that, and maybe one day I'll consider it... At this point, I highly doubt it... Besides, with your Ticklish feet, I doubt you'll let anyone actually touch them at all!" He muttered, causing Deimos to sulk.

As the trio headed out. Lydia smiled softly as she watched them on video. "I KNEW making an acquaintance with that girl would pay off! She said as she lined up some vibrating balls and feathers onto her whip. She let out a crack of her whip, and it immediately came back and spiraled around her, vibrating along her breasts, abs, and ankles. "Mmmmmm, perfect... it responds to the programming well... But my spots are one thing... I think other targets are required for this test drive." She said as she watched Celeste on the screen. "And I have JUST the target in mind... Can't wait to get to know you better, Celeste Marcella. You'll find I'm a real Laff Ryot!" She said while laughing loudly in her hand.

The Aurian Chronicles chapter 23: Worlds in collision

 Amanda walked into the NYPD in full uniform. She casually adjusted her appearance in the mirror and made sure every loose thread was off her. She brushed every stray curl downward and restyled to a professional bun. She walked into her office and tried to keep it together, not wanting to let anyone see she was on the verge of a breakdown.

"Nice to see you again, Lieutenant Cross." Said Dominic as he glared at her. Amanda stayed on her computer as she typed away at her desktop. "Is that how you've learned to address your superiors?" She asked emotionlessly as she stared at her screen. Dominic just grunted and stomped his foot. "You're my superior? Could have fooled me! It's been two weeks since you went on that date with Capryse, and you went from giddy schoolgirl to immediately picking up the slack! What the hell is wrong with you?" He demanded.

Amanda just stopped and pushed her keyboard forward as she breathed a shaky sigh, and then a harder one, and she immediately began to cry. "He knew who I was this entire time!" She said hysterically as Dom immediately pulled the blinds down over the door behind him. "What do you mean, he 'Knew who you were.' You mean that you were a cop?" He asked curiously.

Amanda just pulled some files out for him to read. "My last name isn't technically Cross... Well... It IS, but... My father's last name is Song, as in the Song family from the 99 Louts... a Chinese crime syndicate... While my Father and I were clean as far as the crime family was involved, we DID flee to America when I was young... If he wanted to, Antonio Capryse could literally do anything from having my reputation dragged, to turning my father and me over to one of the neighboring families... Sky's the limit there." She admitted nervously.

Dom Studied her closely. "Do you think he would, though? You talked like he was the man of your dreams," he said with a hint of bitterness in his voice. Amanda just put her hand on her head. "Do I think he would what? Essentially, have me killed? No... No, I do not... But I couldn't take any chances, I offered him literally anything... He said all I had to do was cover the cost of a favor to another acquaintance of his... I even signed a contract in red ink... No clue what that means, but he not only made his vow, he legally had both my father and me legally wiped from the Song family bloodline... We're worthless in the crime world... Thank god." She explained as she breathed a sigh of relief.

Dominic studied her carefully. "Okay? Then what is the problem? Mr. Capryse, if anything seemed to help you... So what? is it the cost thing?" He asked carefully. Amanda just nodded back at him. "He said the transaction will go down in a few days... And frankly, I am nervous as hell... Was this all I was? A bargaining chip... I should have listened to you, Matthews... I'm sorry." She said as she looked up at him. 

Dominic just looked at her desk. "Listen, I don't think it'll be anything too bad if your name was wiped.. If anything, he wiped the value he could have had if he himself were a crime lord... Tell ya what, let's hit Sound City after this and catch DJ Lytestryke's show! We'll have some drinks, some mozzarella sticks, and even dance a bit! If nothing else, it'll get your mind off of all this!" He offered.

"Officer Matthews, are you asking your superior out on a date?" Amanda asked sternly, causing Dominic to wince. Amanda just giggled softly and nodded. "Fine, fine, I'll get some clothes from Flawless Fashions and meet you tonight... For now, we've got other fish to fry." She said as she pulled up incidents going on near Farley Incorporated.

Dominic leaned in as he saw agitated workers around the building. "Looks like one of those strikes is finally about to happen, that moron is about to collapse under the weight of his own greed," he muttered. Amanda nodded, "I don't know what caused all this, but I want all the squads to be ready... my intuition is telling me something huge is going to happen, I don't want us scrambling when it does." She said seriously. Dominic nodded confidently at her words. "Good to have you back, Ma'am." He said as he left.

Meanwhile, Saryn was pouting as Mr. Capryse casually ate away at some Chicken and Dumplings Autumn had made. "Did it really have to go down so soon like that? We're just... Letting her go?" She asked with a crestfallen voice. "I wanted at least a little more time with her... The things we could have done!" She said with a grumble.

Mr. Capryse rolled his eyes and ate a dumpling. "Sadly, my hand was forced... Although the sacrifice of Amanda's full loyalty will ensure things go off without a hitch when Mr. Farley makes his move... And with that last stunt he pulled with Darkness, it looks like that will be very soon... So just relax, dear, while we take over yet another portion of New York." He explained while crossing his legs.

Saryn just let out a huff as she placed her hand on his. "Deal, but if it's possible afterward, I would like to try and smooth things out with Cross.. She was a lot more fun to work with than I thought." She said as she looked in his eyes. Mr Capryse just smirked and nodded. "Deal... I look forward to your next move in that regard." He said, even though he was halfway sure that was going to be impossible.

Saryn smirked back and sat back in her chair as Autumn laid out fresh fruit and whipped cream for dessert. "So what now? Do we wait in a bunker or something?" Asked Autumn curiously. Mr. Capryse just pulled his daughter into his lap and rubbed her chin, causing her to kick her legs adorably. "No, sweetie... Now? We simply wait until Old York burns to the ground, and we arise from its ashes."

The Verdant Hawk: Put a G.R.I.N on that face!

 The Blistering sun beat down over Pink Top City. Traffic was at a gridlock, and worst of all, the snack lines were backed up all the way. Celeste Marcella was grumbling as all her favorite snacks were bought up from the freezer. "All of them! MY ENTIRE LIST!" She shouted to herself as she lifted the entire freezing unit over her head, much to the shock of other customers.

As she got ready to throw, A tall, Blonde woman in a purple Suit top and short skirt combo cleared her throat and stepped forward. "Excuse me! You seemed a bit stressed. Is something the matter?" She asked in a soft voice, as she visually inspected the young woman from head to toe. She pressed a suit button upon eying her feet. 

Celeste just glared up at her, and noticed the absurdity of the situation she caused as she sat the freezer down and breathed in sharply through her nose and let out a deep exhale. "Sorry about that.. I guess I got a bit hangry... All the snacks I usually get were bought up.." She said as she stretched her arms. Celeste was wearing a simple Megadeth T-shirt with a Cheetah pattern skirt and a pair of leather ankle strap boots.

The woman smiled and reached in her purse. "I can see that... Here!" She said as she gave her a large box of assorted Belgian chocolates. "I don't really need these. You can have them!" She said with a smile, a card was on top of the box with 'G.R.I.N' Written in purple. She raised a brow at the card. "What's that?" She asked curiously.

Lydia just patted her softly and smiled. "That's my company! G.R.I.N! Great Relaxation Is a Necessity! We specialize in finding out the stressors in our clients and helping them out! Tell you what, as a sign of good faith, I'll give you a free treatment! Tell them Lydia Hysteria gave you a personal invite at the desk, and we'll show you a good time!" She said with a smile.

Celeste eyed the card and the chocolates. "Um.. Sure! I'll definitely give it a shot later!" She said as she showed a wide grin, showing her sharp canines. "Oh my! Off to a good start already!" Teased Lydia as she laughed into her hand before heading off to do her shopping. Celeste just looked at her card, then the chocolates, and shrugged before heading home.

"G.R.I.N huh? Yeah, I've heard of them... They based out of New York a few years back... the results were so good they spread out over the East Coast!" Said Jaxon as he sat with Celeste on the couch when she got home later that evening. Jaxon was wearing nothing but a red robe with black trim. "So you gonna actually go? I have heard nothing but good things about the place since the one here popped up."

"Yeah... That lady seemed very nice.. didn't even question how I lifted an ice cream freezer, though." She said as she flipped between channels. grimacing as she scrolled past 'Varg the Viking,' as did Jaxon, who just shrugged. "She probably didn't even think about how heavy it really was, babe... And hey, if she calmed you down and kept you out of trouble, she can't be all bad, right? And besides! These chocolates are awesome!" He said as he munched a few chocolates that came from the box Lydia gifted Celeste.

Celeste nodded, "Makes sense, I guess I can check it out this weekend... HEY! Those are MINE! GIMME!" She said as she pounced on Jaxon, who was laughing and happily stealing her snacks for no other reason than to mess with her. Celeste finally took her sweets back and munched on one. "Man, these ARE good! I hope she has more at the spa!" She said with excitement.

Celeste arrived at G.R.I.Ns building later that weekend, whistling at the sight of it. It was roughly the size of five supermarkets, both high and wide. The letters G.R.I.N were written in the form of a small smile. The windows that were left open showed various massage machines and forms of equipment that Celeste could immediately recognize, but everybody that was visible from the outside seemed to look relaxed and at peace. Celeste nodded to herself as she walked in. "At least I know I'll be in good hands." She told herself confidently.

Celeste made her way to the counter, where she saw a woman in what looked like a cross between a white Yoga outfit and scrubs a nurse would wear. She had medium-length blonde hair and bright blue eyes. "Hi! Welcome to GRIN! Because Great Relaxation Is a Necessity! How may I help you?" She said in a bubbly voice.

"Um... Hi... Someone named Lydia gave me this card and recommended me personally." Said Celeste as she gave Lydia's card to the attendant. The woman lit up and grinned widely. "Oh my goodness! You are so LUCKY! Lydia Hysteria is the CEO of this company! If she gave you this, it means you get a free full treatment plus benefits! Let's get you into your new outfit right away!" She said as she took Celeste by the hand and guided her to a changing room.

Celeste grumbled uncomfortably as she emerged in a white bodysuit. Although it was form-fitting, almost like a second skin, it was nowhere near what she normally wore in her day-to-day life. "Do I have to wear this?" She asked with distress in her voice as she tried to completely look herself over.

"Of course! During your treatment, this outfit is going to help us determine your stress spots and not only relieve the built-up tension, but make it harder for it to return for a while!" Said the attendant. Celeste just looked at her. "Hey, shouldn't you be back at the desk?" She asked. The attendant just smiled at her. "Nah, I just had someone cover me while I walk you through, not every day we get a VIP!" She said as she guided her to her first spot.

"So what's this?" She asked as she saw a spot with a bed that had monitors attached to it, along with scanners as well. "This here determines the spots of your body that radiate the most heat, that's where the fun begins," She said softly as she laid Celeste on the bed. A bright scanner slowly beamed over Celeste's body in a 360 rotation. Celeste stretched out and let it continue to scan her for a few minutes.

A loud beep went off as the attendant whistled, "You must be on your feet a lot! They're lit up like a Christmas tree!" She told her as she admired the other spots on her breasts, inner thighs, underarms, and even spots on her erogenous zones. Celeste just scratched the back of her head and looked down. "You uh... aren't going to massage those or something, are you?" She asked, causing the attendant to laugh.

"Oh heavens no! There is more than just hand-on-skin contact at this spa! though you will be getting tended to by skilled hands, we have so much more to offer than that! and we certainly don't need to touch certain parts of your body to get stress out! Trust us with your safety and comfort during your stay!" She explained as she walked her through the facility.

After a few minutes of walking, Celeste headed to a Neon purple door as the attendant handed her a specialized magnetic card and waved. "When you walk by the right door, it should buzz, proceed into that door for your personal treatment, when you are done, you will end up back at the lobby... Hopefully with a wide Grin!" She told her happily.

Celeste laughed nervously and nodded as she walked through the door. "Well, what's the worst that could happen? It's just a really big Spa trip? How bad could it be?" She asked as she headed through the door to start her treatment.

After passing by the first few rooms, the card in her hand buzzed. "First stop" she said as she walked into a bright room. a cushioned chair with rubber nubs extended forward with its zero gravity feature. Celeste slowly sat in it before it slowly arched back and began harnessing her in. "Hey! What the-?" She demanded as it began buzzing softly, causing her to relax. A countdown appeared before her set at thirty minutes as the room began to fill with the scent of lavender and vanilla. "Oooooh not baaaad," She said lazily as she closed her eyes with a smile.

Celeste almost pouted in disappointment after her half hour was up. The chair stopped buzzing immediately as the timer told her to please proceed to the next room. "I would have preferred that to be the whole treatment." She said as she walked to the next room. Inside was what looked like a tub, one that advised her to leave her attire on. She shrugged and slowly laid inside it as some sort of blue gel with tiny white beads filled up until she was fully submerged except for her head. "Ooh! WARM!" She said as the latex seemed to hug her skin even tighter, giving her the sense of feeling fully naked. "Oh... my... that's good!" She said lazily as her feet felt like soft marshmallows. 

Another hour had passed, and Celeste seemed to be walking on her tiptoes as she couldn't help but have a lazy smile forming on her face. "Gosh, I might have to buy memberships with Jaxon after this." She said with a light blush as she walked into the next room. This one had another bed, but with mechanical hands with padded foam gloves on them. "Oh, this is gonna be so good!" She said as she immediately laid down, only to yelp as the hands gripped her and lifted her off the bed.

Celeste started to struggle as the room filled with more lavender vanilla scent while the hands began massaging her weak spots. "OOOH!" She squealed happily as her struggling stopped immediately. "You know what you're doing," She said as she submitted to the pampering of the mechanical hands. She lightly giggled as they rubbed some lotion on her body. "I can feel it through this goofy outfit!" She said happily as she was rubbed down fully, not caring in the slightest wear they touched, even welcoming it now.

After an hour she was giddily strolling through the hallway as she saw the final spot. Inside was a hot spring where her clothes and a towel awaited her. "Please leave your singlet on in the hot springs, it will be removed on its own!" Said an automated voice. Celeste just happily walked into the hot water without a care and watched as the suit melted off her body. A chemical was added to the water that caused the steam to give off more of that lavender vanilla scent. "Oh my god, I feel light as a feather... like I can fly! I wonder what all the other treatments in this building are like! Maybe I'll get to find out with a full membership!" She said as she relaxed. 

When her time was up, she dried off and got back into her clothes as she skipped to the desk with a grin on her face. The attendant casually giggled at the sight of her. "Now THAT'S the expression we love to see!" She said with a smile. "Well, yeah! Because Great Relaxation Is a Necessity!" Repeated Celeste as she filled out a review. "I'll be buying a membership, and can I get another form for someone else?" She asked. The attendant nodded and handed her another form. Celeste waved her goodbye before happily leaving.

"Thank you for stopping by!" Said the attendant with a bubbly smile. Unbeknownst to both her and Celeste. Lydia Hysteria was grinning while watching the security cameras and uploading Celeste's data to a microchip. "Yes... Thank you, Celeste Marcella... Thank you for everything." She said as she laughed loudly.

Welcome to the Aurian War

 As you have been made well aware in "The Aurian Chronicles," Aura exists as a power within, activated by the user's spinal fluid do achieve their "Aura" power. Going beyond that. These Aurian powers exist in "Strands" Spread throughout the Multiverse, and while there will be four universes in total, today we will be discussing "The Aurian War."

Rather than a simple individual known as "The Composer", discovering Aura and trying to use it to change the world for the better, Aura has been present in humanity right from the very beginning. Due to the natural hostility in mankind, you can guess that these various skills catalogued throughout history were not always used with the best intentions at heart.

Due to the increased deadliness of warfare, the age of the draft has been lowered to 14 years of age, with the option of donating children to the cause at even younger ages for financial compensation. It is HERE that Aurian soldiers are made. They are taught the horrors and of defeat, and the pleasures of victory at a very young age, all to ensure total victory.

Nations do NOT operate like they do in the regular do, the more their leaders acquire in terms of landmass, the more control they secure, because of this, elections have been forgone in the sake of a "might makes right" system. Politicians are not expected to last long, as there is always a knife at their necks.

Aurian soldiers are nothing short of perfectly groomed sociopaths. All they need is the promise of a good reward for victory, and they will charge into horrific situations with smiles on their face... Some of them not even caring if it's their last day alive. Not ALL Soldiers buy into their programming, some of them do their best to save as much money as they can, and abandon the war lines entirely, and while they are fully allowed to do so, they are met with nothing but scorn from their peers.

I hope you've enjoyed this brief guide into how systems work in this alternate universe. As the story opens up, we will be diving into the Void Weaver "Dusk Sonnet" and how her life as a soldier has corrupted her mind, body and soul. Fully expect the four universes mentioned above to collide in the future, and please keep an open mind. "The Aurian Chronicles" Will be the main story, but I do hope that you will still stay tuned for these other side projects going forward.

                                                                 -Until next time!

The Aurian War: Chapter 1

 A scorching heat radiated down on an abandoned camp somewhere out in South America. Underneath the shade, a few soldiers slid their pants up and chuckled softly. On the ground was a young, curvy woman just under six feet. She had purple bangs but long, beautiful raven black hair, and was only left in a blood red lingerie combination two-piece.

"Aww, come on, boys... You knock a girl in the back of the head, only for about half an hour of fun? no stamina these days, I tell ya!" She said as she spat blood and laughed as they glared and aimed their rifles at her. "SHUT UP, YOU HARLOT! The fact that you're attractive is the only reason you even lived this long!" said the closest man to her face.

"Oh! Well... Lucky ME then am I right?" She asked as she placed her hands on the ground under her back while opening her legs and curling her toes. "At least a little more fun? before we part ways?" She asked as she winked, only to frown as they all pointed their guns at her. "Guess not..." She said as the threads along her lingerie unraveled quickly and stabbed forward every which way, impaling all of them through the skull.

"Stupid bastards... Should have done it and killed me BEFORE I woke up... Dumb pricks didn't even try to guess what my Aura could do... Didn't even consider I was an Aurian at all... nope, just a face and some holes... Ah, well." She muttered as she looked for her M4 Carbine assault rifle. She found it by a pair of long black boots with latex mesh that extended up past her buttocks, and a leather black jacket, which was lying on her Beret. 

After making sure the insignia of a Sword piercing a Treble Clef on the beret was over her left eye. She scouted the poverty-stricken village for supplies. Her stomach growled at the sight of chicken cooking over a spit roast. "OH SWEET! Those asspukes must have tried to use me for after-dinner entertainment! Lucky me!" She said as she took the Chicken off the spit and cut it up.

As she ate. She saw a pair of Dark blue eyes peering out at her from a damaged building. She sat up and aimed her Rifle one handed towards them. "I don't want to have to come in there, too many of you have already come in here! now let me get a look at you jackass!" She called out as loud as she could.

A young woman slowly made herself present to her as she held her hands up. Her body was unusually Silver, and her hair was white as snow. Dusk guessed her to be around her early twenties if that. She only seemed to be wearing Dark Blue stockings with matching panties and a White see through T-shirt.

"... So I WASN'T the only option... Come here girl, you must be hungry, lord knows those boys won't eat it." She said as she gave her a leg of the chicken. The girl slowly ate it but eyed her carefully. The woman rolled her eyes and sighed. "Don't worry, I won't hurt you... My name is Dusk... Dusk Sonnet! Yours?" She asked politely.

The young woman looked at her food and swallowed. "I go by Skyla, but ever since those men invaded... I am called the Silver one! I like Silver honestly!" She said eagerly. Dusk just chuckled and sat down. "Your good looks keep you alive?" She asked curiously, causing the girl to shudder.

"How can you be so Casual about what they do? I saw those men RAPE you! You act like it's part of your job!" She said in distress. Dusk just shrugged. "So? It IS part of the job! I got something others want... If I don't want them to take it.. I just gotta be careful! Hey, I'm lucky I'm hot right? Can you imagine if I was a guy? I might be dead right now!" She said with a laugh.

Silver just gaped at her. "You live a life of sadness... No one should have to endure that kind of life." She said with determination. Dusk just shrugged, not really sure what much else there was to say "I mean it could be worse! I still got all my limbs... I'm alive and they aren't... Why you worryin' So much?" She asked as she finished her meal.

Silver finished hers as well and guided Dusk around the destroyed city to help her scavenge up some stuff. After loading up a motorcycle, Dusk saluted Silver and smiled. "Well, baby, it's been real, and it's been fun... But it ain't been real fun! I know those were only a few men... More will come back soon! You'd better pack up some supplies of your own and hightail it if you ain't joining me." She said softly before handing Silver a map.

"I Have to bury my family first... pay my respects to what I've lost first... I'll follow behind when I am done." Promised Silver. Dusk raised a brow at her and spat to her side. "Sentimentality gets you killed in the combat zone darling... But you do what you gotta do! Later!" She said as she revved her new bike and zoomed off.

Silver just watched Dusk speed off into the sunset in amazement. "That's an Aurian soldier... She's rude, callous, and uncaring of the world around her." She said as she felt her cheeks redden while her lips curled into a smile. "And she's going to be MINE!" She said with excitement.

She fashioned herself a makeshift Blue skirt to matched her stocking, and tied her white hair into a ponytail before burying her parents and friends. She then started her family car and slowly pulled it out of the city with a weeks worth of food. "Goodbye Mother... Father... I wish I could have rebuilt, but there's something new on the horizon... and I can't WAIT to find out what it is!" She said as she rode off into the night.

The Aurian Chronicles Chapter 22: So what's next?

 Lyte smiled softly as she fiddled with her soundboard attachments, while Darkness plucked the strings on his guitar after lacing them up with new blood- red Silk and Steel strings. "That's why I Lyte 'em up BABY! Cuz they've been hiding in the Dark lately! My Demons gettin' tired maybe? That's cuz I'm done lettin' 'em CHASE ME!" Sang Lyte as she luminated her outfit to show off rainbow beams while Darkness strummed along.

Silver Just smiled as she walked in in just a sky blue bikini. "Lovely to see my two cuties getting along! A nice jam session before we get started?" She asked as she sat on the couch of the living room. Darkness just raised a brow. "Get started with what?" He asked curiously while Silver pulled out a bag.

"I had a talk with Silver... We think it's time to lift Xaldin and get out of New York." Said Lyte with a shrug. Darkness shook his head, but Silver put her hand up. "Ah ah ah, Mr. Capryse gave us the go-ahead on all accounts... Even gave us a few going-away presents so that we can travel easy, provided we pull off some odd jobs before we leave!" She said with a grin.

"And I just KNOW the downfall of Mr. Farley is on that list... So what kind of 'gifts' Did the coffee man have in mind?" He asked while Silver happily stuck her tongue out and reached into the closet. "Some big old Sniper rifle... He said your friend would be ecstatic to have one!" She said while rummaging through the closet for the bag. "We also got some clothes in Xaldin's size, a Metal baseball bat with Babe Ruth's logo lasered onto it, and some syringe that-" 

Lyte's rambling was cut off by an uncharacteristic scream as Darkness saw the purple fluid in the syringe. "Th-That's NNI!" He said in a panic as Silver hugged him tight. "Listen my love, Mr. Capryse said this strand would help them."

Darkness just narrowed his eyes at Silver."YOU KNEW ABOUT THIS?! HOW COULD YOU?!" Screamed Darkness as he backed away from Silver and up against a wall. Lyte narrowed her eyes. "Look I know what the prototype did to YOU but, he said it's perfected this time, and that Saryn used the data... We're out of options here.. I don't see the harm in trying it." Reasoned Lyte.

Darkness looked at the ceiling and let out a shaky laugh. "You don't see the harm... Really?" He asked as he advanced on Lyte while grabbing a whiskey bottle off the table. "You know, after I got home.. I drank a LOT... over and over as I destroyed my life over the bottle... But not ONCE did I ever smack Silver, or you..." He said before glaring at the syringe. "But THAT abomination... almost made me kill Silver... If you don't see the risk in that... You're damn FOOLS!" He said... still in shock from his PTSD.

Lyte looked at him and processed his words. "I DO see your point... But let me ask you this... would you rather risk a showdown with Xaldin and the three of us... Or letting them rot away in a hospital the rest of their life... KNOWING there was a chance you could have helped them... But did nothing?" She challenged.

Darkness racked it over in his mind before sighing and sitting down. "Fine... We will cross that bridge... I'm pretty sure we have a short obese egotistical mob lord to deal with." He said as he sat back down by Silver. Lyte just grinned and grabbed her PC. "Oh don't you worry... When DJ LYTESTRYKE Leaves New York... There's going to be one explosive Finale!" She promised as she got started on telling Silver and Darkness her plan. Silver Just grinned as she listened while Darkness took notes.

Meanwhile, Mr. Capryse happily adjusted his tie While Sipping his morning coffee and checking his notes. As he hummed a jazzy tune, a Pink skinned woman sauntered in. "Hello Tony..." Said Kayla in an optimistic tone. Mr. Capryse just rolled his eyes as he smiled up at her. "Kayla Kayla Kayla... I thought I told you to come to me when you had something substantial.. I am not becoming some demon lord or whatever just for less power in the grand scheme of things!" he told her.

Kayla just giggled as she sat on his desk and kicked her black heels off while straightening her red dress. "Oh but Tony... This time I think I have something you'll want to trade." She said as she pulled out a cellphone and showed him the footage of his murder of that thug Albert Farley had hired. "Albert... Clearly, letting him live too long was a mistake on my part." He said with disappointment.

Kayla just giggled. "Tell you what.. I'll hand this over and give you a few days to get your affairs in order before I turn you! How's that sound?" She asked. Mr. Capryse just thought about it for a few minutes, then smiled and shook her hand. "IT'S A DEAL!" He said with excitement. Kayla's heart skipped a beat at the idea of winning a new demon lord. "Oh, Tony... Now was that so hard? If only you had said yes the LAST time I propositioned you!" She said before leaving the cellphone on the desk and waving him goodbye before disappearing in black and red flames.

Mr. Capryse just made a few "Tsk" noises as he pondered if the risk was currently worth it. "Do I have any other options? No... not with some little prep time..." He muttered as he headed down the hallway. "I was hoping to save this for a rainy day... But time is unfortunately of the essence." He said as he opened his bedroom door. Saryn was giggling happily as Amanda was wearing a dog collar and obediently licking up her long, slender legs.

"Coming to bed love?" Invited Saryn. This caused Amanda to blush in excitement as her toes curled at the thought of sleeping with him again. Mr. Capryse just shook his head and looked at Amanda. "No no no.. I'm afraid I need to talk  to Lieutenant Cross for a moment... about business."

Amanda sighed as she sat up. "It's just Amanda when I am not in uniform... I was hoping after all we've done, you'd know that by now? And also, if this is about official police business, I'm afraid I can't-"

"Oh no no no.. I don't need Amanda CROSS for this... I need Amanda SONG" Said Mr. Capryse, causing Amanda to freeze. "How... How do you know my Chinese last name?" She asked slowly. In her head, she was replaying every moment over the last few years to see where she could have possibly messed up.

Mr. Capryse simply smiled and pulled her by her small feet to him. "I'm a man of information... Such information includes debts... Which the 99 Lotus collects on constantly in my beloved state! Now... You and I are both going to have a nice long talk... Perhaps over coffee?"

Amanda just gulped as she got dressed into proper clothes, even as Saryn teasingly rubbed her soles along Amanda's smooth skin. She was still trying to wrap her head over just how much Mr. Capryse knew, and even just how much trouble she'd gotten into as the man of her dreams became the monster of her nightmares.