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"Mortal flesh… mortal blood," hissed a shadowy figure. "It's a young woman," said another. "What a poor poor fool. Coming here when it isn't her time yet." "But, we love mortals. We love their blood so. Come. Let's take advantage of this opportunity…" "And tear her limb from limb!" The shadows advanced on Presea. Suddenly there was a flash of white light. "No!" said one of the demon shadows, wincing away. "Not the light of an angel! This is our prize! You can't interfere!" The light cleared, revealing a young woman. She was dressed as one from Elision, in white and gold. Her brown hair hung down her back in a braid, her brown eyes danced. And in one hand was a rapier. "Sorry guys," she said, and advanced toward the demons. "No mortal flesh for you today. Especially not this mortal flesh!" The demons reared up… and then attacked. They were no match for the young woman. Two slices and the demons were sent back to Hell. The woman sheathed her rapier and then went back to Presea. "I don't know what you're doing here, but I trust that it's a good reason. Either way, I think that you're a bit insane for even attempting to enter the Underworld after everything… but you must have a hidden purpose. No matter then," she lifted Presea. "I'll take you to Elision. You can rest up there, and then continue on with your mission, Presea… Queen of Questria."
Meanwhile, everyone had a fright from the demons. "They almost got her," said Alycione. "That was a close one," agreed Stephen. "Thank goodness for Kerry," said Rogue. "She's still great with the rapier… a wonderful duelist if I do say so myself." A sigh of relief washed over the group. Presea was safe for now.
Elision was buzzing with excitement when Kerry returned. Everyone was talking at once. They were all fascinated by the fact that a mortal would want to enter the Underworld by choice. Those who knew Presea wondered why their Queen had risked her life by coming. Jacq joined Kerry, who was sitting next to Presea. "She's still out?" he asked. Kerry nodded. "It's a long way down… could you get me a compress for her head?" "Sure." Jacq wandered off to get the compress. Soon Kerry was joined by Presea's family. Benedict and Gwyneth Aldrain looked at their youngest daughter. "My baby," said Gwyneth. "She's all grown up…" "She's the only one left," muttered Benedict. Two teenagers stood beside them. They were Rusty and Sierra. On the other side of Presea stood Trent, Gavin, Lily, and Caitlin. "There was always something about her," Trent said slowly. "It is said that the seventh child is blessed with power," said Caitlin. "Well it's clear that there's something special about Presea. She wouldn't have survived if there wasn't," Lily said. Kerry looked at all of them. Jacq returned with the compress and laid it on Presea's forehead. "Why would she be here though?" asked Rusty. "She had a reason, I'm sure," said Kerry. "Presea always has a reason…" "Braden," said Gavin. "What?" asked Sierra. "Her husband. I bet it's about him." Suddenly Presea stirred. "She's coming around," said Benedict. Presea opened her eyes slowly. "Oh my head…" She blinked. "What's going on? Where am I?" she sat up and gasped. "Oh my god… Mother… Father. Kerry and Jacq… Trent, Gavin, Lily, Caitlin, Rusty, Sierra… you're all here. Then that means that I'm…" "In Elision," said Gwyneth. "So I survived the fall to the Underworld?" "Barely," said Kerry. Presea stood up slowly and then embraced her whole family. "I miss you all so much. I wish you were all with me again," she said, tears coming to her eyes. "We watch over you," said Rusty. "We always have." "But Presea," said Kerry. "What are you doing here?" "Kerry, Jacq… I'm so sorry. I should have been home for you guys. I can't believe that I let it happen. I'm so sorry. If I could turn back time, then I would do it, and…" "Presea, stop," said Jacq. "We've accepted our death," said Kerry. "And it's not your fault. You would have died if you were in Questria. But you didn't answer my question. Why are you here?" "I'm here to rescue Braden's soul. He should be here in Elision, but he's in Hell." Whispers of "I'm so sorry" echoed throughout Elision. Presea broke away from everyone and walked slowly down one of the paths. Elision was the most beautiful place that she had ever seen. It was peaceful and loving. Braden must be brought here, she thought. "Presea?" asked a voice from behind her. Presea turned. Her eyes widened. "Riley!" "So it is you!" Presea ran to the former Master Smith and hugged him fiercely. "Oh Riley! I can't believe it! I'm so happy to see you!" "And I'm happy to see you doing so well Presea. I knew from the moment that I first met you that you'd be the best Master Smith. I'm so proud of you." "Thank you Riley." Riley touched Presea's headband. "You still wear this…" "It's a symbol. A symbol that I was the apprentice of the great Master Smith Riley." Riley laughed. "You were always so eloquent. So good in everything that you did. You know, Presea, you were almost like a daughter to me." "And you a father to me." Presea hugged Riley again. Riley patted her shoulder. "Well I've got work to do." "Work?" "Even Elision needs a weapon smith," he winked. Presea smiled. "And if you need anything, just call for me," he added. "I will." Riley left. Presea walked on. She came to a small pond. Presea knelt down by the water's edge and looked at her reflection. She sighed. The face that she stared at was sad… and lost. But it also looked determined. "This is me… I must bring Braden here. I can't let him sit in torment anymore…" "Young lady," said a male voice. Presea looked back. There was a young man leaning against a tree, looking at her. "I'm sorry… were you speaking to me?" The man walked toward her. "I was. I have a question for you." Presea stood. "Yes?" "Where did you get that?" he pointed to her rapier. "I…I got it when I was very young." "Yes… you were very young. And the rapier… it was from a dying duelist on the streets." "How did you…" Presea's eyes widened. "It's you! You gave me this rapier!" The man nodded. "We meet again Presea. My name is Ademus." "Ademus…" whispered Presea. "I remember everything…"
"Rogue! Hey Rogue!" "What is it Presea?" "A duel! Those men over there are going to have a duel! We have to watch it!" "Geeze, what is it with you and weapons and fighting?" "Come on!" "But we might blow our cover if we watch. You know the penalty for people like us." "Whatever. I'm going. It's up to you if you want to come or not." "Presea! Oh all right. I'm coming!" Presea and Rogue leaned up against a wall and watched as the duel began. One man, with blonde hair and hazel eyes, moved gracefully. The other man, with dark hair and green eyes, moved just as gracefully. The sound of the rapiers echoed throughout the street as people stopped to watch the duel. The men fought on. Presea watched, in awe. And then suddenly the blonde man was on the ground. The other man stood over him… and in one swift motion, brought his rapier down. Presea cried out in shock. She turned to Rogue, tears in her eyes. "Why did he do that? What purpose did it serve?" Rogue sighed. "It's the rules of the duel… the victor slays the loser." The crowd began to break up. Presea took off running. "Presea!" shouted Rogue. Presea ran to the fallen man and knelt down. "Sir! Sir are you all right? I'll stop the bleeding!" She tore at the bottom of her breeches and ripped off a piece. She quickly pressed it on the man's bleeding wound. Rogue grabbed her shoulder. "Are you totally insane? You'll get us killed!" "I must help this man!" "Young lady," the man whispered. "Yes?" "I thank you for your efforts, but they are in vain. I'm dying." "No, I'll save you!" "There's nothing you can do for me." "But…" "I'm dying, but with dignity and honor. I am not afraid." "It's not right!" "Look at me." Presea obeyed. "You've got fire in your eyes. What is your name?" "Presea." "Presea… I want you to do something for me." "Yes?" "Take my rapier." "But… but why?" "I am bestowing it to you. Take it and use it well." "I…" "Please." "I will." "Thank you…" The man's eyes closed. "Sir!" Presea cried. "Wait! I don't even know your name!" "Presea," said Rogue. "Huh?" Rogue indicated the group of people that had gathered to take the young man away. He picked up the rapier and handed it to Presea. "It's yours now." Presea took the rapier and watched the people take away the young duelist. "With this rapier… I'll be a hero. I will never let this happen again…"
Presea looked sadly at Ademus. "I'm sorry that I couldn't help you." Ademus came up beside Presea and looked into the pond. "There was no need for you to help me. I died with honor. You were such an innocent little child. I looked into your eyes and saw greatness. That is why I gave you the rapier." He studied Presea. "And I wasn't wrong. You grew up to be a beautiful lady. I've been watching you over the years, Presea, and I am quite proud of you." "Why have you been watching me?" "Because… I'm your guardian angel." "What do you mean by that?" "I watch over you and send blessings to help you on your way." "You look out for me?" "Yes." Presea was silent. "Did you know what was going to happen to Questria?" "Truthfully, I had no idea. But I'm so sorry Presea. I should have protected the ones you loved…" "No," Presea said firmly. "It's my responsibility to do that. And I will bring Braden here." Ademus nodded. "I can see that you're not going to change your mind about entering the depths of Hell. It's a dangerous place. Nobody can be fully prepared for what awaits in the darkness." "I know that. But I'm willing to take my chances." "You are truly devoted to Braden… what a loving soul you have." "And he would do the same for me." "I know that. But please, protect your soul. It's souls like yours that the demons would love to get their hands on. Every step of the way will be full of hardship." Presea nodded, a bit nervous. She knew that the journey would be dangerous and full of the unexpected. But…something nagged her in the back of her mind. There was something fearful beyond the darkness that she couldn't grasp just yet. "Well," she said bravely. "There's no time like the present I suppose. I'd better get going." Ademus grasped her shoulder. "Please let me be your guide until we reach the gateway into Hell. I can ensure your safety until that point, for we angels are not permitted past the gates of Hell." Presea smiled. "Thanks Ademus." "Excuse me," said a voice from up the path. Presea and Ademus looked up. Standing there was the old King of Questria, Chigef, and his queen, Mandella. Presea gasped. "Your…highness!" She knelt before Chigef. "Presea, rise. You're just as much royalty as I am." Presea stood. Chigef gestured toward Mandella. "I believe you have never met my wife. This is Mandella." Presea nodded. "I'm very happy to meet you." "Yes, I am as well," said Mandella. "I cannot thank you enough for the greatness you brought to Questria. I passed away a few years before you came to the palace…" "Yes, I remember." "But you brought joy to everyone there, and I am grateful for that." "It was no problem." "Presea," interrupted Chigef, "What are you doing here? You're mortal…" "I am here to save Braden from Hell. I want him here, in Elision." The king and queen exchanged glances. "That's quite a noble thing to do," said Chigef. "I love him," Presea simply replied. "Presea, may I ask a favor of you?" asked Mandella. "All right." "Could you please rescue Tristan too?" "What!" Presea yelled, in shock. Then she took a few deep breaths. "I'm sorry to sound so shocked, but I can't help feeling that way." "I know that my son has caused us all great pain, but he still is my son. I, as his mother, believe that he can still be redeemed, and you are the perfect one to redeem him." Presea took a step back. "I… I can't! Too much has been said and done. My heart won't allow me to. It's just not possible," she blurted out. Mandella's face fell and Chigef remained expressionless. "I mean, I understand that you want him to be redeemed, but I just can't imagine that I'd be the one to do it. Your son has tormented me for life. He killed my husband and the kingdom that I've called home forever. He made the innocent suffer…" "We understand," Chigef said calmly. Presea's heart was beating fast. Her emotions swelled inside of her. She wouldn't break down, not here, not now. "I must go," she said. "If it's at all possible, I will try to save him. Excuse me please." Chigef and Mandella nodded. Presea swiftly walked past them, followed by Ademus. Could she really save Tristan as well as Braden? Her heart was torn. And Presea felt even more lost then before.
Ademus walked swiftly to match the pace of Presea. She had been walking in a trancelike state. Ademus truly didn't know Presea well, but he could feel her worries and her doubts. Presea looked ahead through glassy eyes. Kerry was walking toward them along with Jacq. Kerry's face lit up when she saw Presea, but immediately darkened. Presea would have kept walking if Kerry hadn't grabbed her shoulders. "There's something wrong, isn't there?" she asked. Presea looked at the ground. "Answer me," Kerry said firmly. Presea just nodded. "I knew it," Kerry muttered. "I could tell by the look on your face." "I just spoke with King Chigef and Queen Mandella. They are Braden and Tristan's parents… the previous rulers of Questria." "What happened?" asked Kerry. "They… they asked me to… rescue Tristan." "WHAT?" shouted Jacq, who had been silent for some time. "They want me to redeem Tristan from the bowels of Hell." "How can you do that?" Kerry protested. "The guy ruined your life. Besides, the bowels of Hell… no mortal could survive that!" Presea shrugged. "I didn't make any promises. But I have to get going. I just want to rescue Braden and make sure that his soul is at peace." Presea continued walking to the gates of Elision with Kerry, Jacq, and Ademus following her. She reached the gates. Ademus stepped next to her. "Are you sure that you're ready for this?" he asked. Presea nodded silently. She turned around and looked back over Elision. To her surprise, she had quite a crowd to see her off. Besides Kerry and Jacq, Riley was there as well as her whole family. Many people from Questria had gathered to see her off as well. "Presea, please be careful," her mother said. The rest of her family wished her luck and courage to fulfill her mission. "Believe in yourself!" shouted Riley. The people of Questria shouted their good-byes. Kerry smiled at her best friend. "Be safe, Presea. I know you can do this." Jacq nodded. Presea hugged her family and friends good-bye, promising that she wouldn't get herself killed. Just as she was about to exit the gates, Presea turned once again. Standing at the back of the crowd were Chigef and Mandella. Presea bit her lip, her heart pained. Taking a deep breath she pushed the gates of Elision opened and walked out with Ademus. There was no turning back now.
"Update!" shouted Rogue. The group on Cephiro had been growing restless for some time now. Terria sat on the ground with Stephen and Bindi. Alycione had kept her distance from Clef and Dylan. They, in turn, hadn't paid much attention to her. And Rogue had been keeping everyone's spirits up. All eyes had been on the orb for quite a while. "Finally," Terria said. Rogue nodded. "Presea just left Elision with… a man." "Who is it?" asked Alycione. "If I can remember correctly, it looks like that duelist that we met when were young. The one who gave Presea the rapier. It looks as if he's guiding her to the gates of Hell." "Well at least she has a guide," said Stephen. Rogue nodded. "It looks as if everything's going smoothly… for now."
Ademus and Presea walked side by side. Presea looked around the twisting caverns of the Underworld. Everything was gray and cold. She shivered a bit. The Underworld was very intimidating. Presea expressed her thoughts to Ademus. He smiled at her. "It is intimidating, I will admit. But I believe that you can overcome it if you will yourself to. The power of the will controls everything. If you have a strong enough will then you will make it through." "I know," Presea said. "I'm just nervous." "Now's not the time for fear to take over." Presea took a deep breath. "I have to focus. I must focus…" They kept walking. Soon Presea began to hear shrieks and moans. "What is that?" she whispered. "The damned. Most of them are forced to work in the pits of Hell for all eternity." "Braden…?" "No, from what I've heard, he's not in the pits. He's tormented enough by just being there." Ademus' words triggered Presea's will. "I'll get him out. I won't let him suffer like this." "I believe you." Finally they reached the gates of Hell. "This is it," Ademus said. Presea stared at the huge gates. Slowly, they began to open. She looked at Ademus. He gave her a reassuring smile. "You'll be fine." "Are…are you coming?" He shook his head. "We from Elision are hardly ever allowed into Hell unless there's a rare exception…" "I understand." Presea hugged Ademus. "Thank you for bringing me here." "I'll still be watching over you. Believe in yourself, Presea, because we all believe in you. You can do this. And remember; try to ignore the demons. Don't let them tempt your soul…" "I'll remember." Presea drew her rapier. "I'm ready. Good-bye Ademus." Then she gathered all of her courage. She took a few steps toward the gates, paused for a moment, and then walked straight into them. The gates of Hell swallowed Presea with a huge bang. And everything was silent…
Presea was stunned by the silence. Then she began to hear the moaning and wailing again. The demons… and everyone else in Hell knew that something had changed in the air. Something had entered their realm… and altered it slightly. A mortal soul… Not just any mortal soul, but that of a strong willed heroic person. Presea's eyes darted around where she had just entered. In her mind she told herself to be calm and controlled. No fear… She began walking into Hell. "Presea…" she heard the hissing of demons. They sent shivers up her spine. "Mortal soul…" the hissing continued. Presea kept her mouth shut, as if it would keep the demons away. She walked faster. After a few minutes she reached one of the huge caverns of Hell. Her heart was beating rapidly as she saw the horror unfold before her. There were huge pits… and Ademus' words were true. The damned were slaving away down in the pits. Suddenly they stopped working. All eyes were on her. Presea took a step back. "Presea!" they wailed. "Save us! Save us, Presea!" She shook her head. I must keep going… She began to cross through the cavern. "Save us… or join us!" the damned screamed. They were reaching up out of the pits. Something…or someone grabbed Presea's foot. She yelled in surprise and hit the floor. She was being dragged into the pit. There was no way that she was going in there. Presea blindly slashed out with her rapier and heard a shriek. The grip on her foot was gone, and Presea quickly pulled herself up. The damned were still wailing at her. She glared at them and swung her rapier. They shrunk back, frightened for a moment. Presea took that moment as her chance to escape, and quickly dashed across the cavern and into another.
Braden heard it… screams and shouts from the pits of the damned. The demons were unusually active as well. Something was happening. Braden could feel it in his heart. It couldn't be… "Presea," he whispered, his eyes wide. He picked up his piece of stone. To his disbelief, he saw her. "She's in Hell? Here in Hell? What's happening?" His mouth dropped open. "I can't believe her. She's totally insane. Presea, why are you risking your life for me?" Braden protested…or so he thought. But deep in the back of his mind he felt relief. Just knowing that Presea still loved him so much… made him happy. But he didn't want her to go through so much for him. Braden rose, his heart light again. Presea was coming for him. He would be ready to meet her and see what she was doing in Hell.
Presea dashed into the next cavern. What she had just experienced was enough to make anybody want to turn and run back. But she had to go forward. The cavern that she had just entered… was strange indeed. Unlike the burning pits she had just seen, this cavern was cold and bleak. It was freezing. There was a huge river running through it. Presea found it strange. The river was water, not fire. It was ice water. She would have to cross it in order to continue. Is there no other way? She asked herself. To her surprise, a voice answered her. It was an unrecognizable voice, but it was there. You must cross this river in order to proceed. There is no other way. Of course, you could always turn back and leave… "No!" Presea shouted. "I'm not going back!" She put a foot into the river and gasped. The water really was like ice. Presea gritted her teeth and continued. The water was now up to her waist. Her skin was becoming numb. She had to keep going. Faster and faster… she walked. She heard cackling. The demons? Presea was pulled under. Down, down, down… into the freezing depths. Her body cried out in shock. Presea struggled. She was being held down by some invisible force. It was most surely the demons. Presea could hear them laughing in her mind. This was a game to them. A sick game of pleasure. Presea was running out of air. She began to fight her way back up to the surface. The demons laughed insanely, pulling her back. Presea began to see darkness. It was all going to end very soon. Then she remember… the heart which believes has the most power… She concentrated and felt a burst of power. She shot herself away from the demons. They howled in confusion. Presea's body felt like a huge weight, but she found her way to the surface. Coughing and sputtering, she clawed her way onto the other side of the river. Once on land, Presea began to shiver violently. Her skin had turned a light shade of blue. Luckily she still had her rapier. She had survived. Presea breathed heavily, regaining her composure. It had been a close call, but she had made it. Confidence slowly filled Presea. Though she was wet and cold, she found strength. It was time to move on.
"That was way too close," Dylan commented. The others nodded. "Hell," said Clef. "Is the worst place to be." "That's obvious," said Stephen. "But look," said Terria. "Presea escaped both times. If she keeps going on like this, then she'll make it through." "She better make it through," said Alycione. "Hell's a horrid place. I wouldn't want to be there…" "Well you're going to be if you keep following the path you've chosen," Dylan cut in. Alycione's eyes flashed anger. "What's that supposed to mean father?" "If you keep joining the evil side, you're going to be doomed to Hell. Perhaps working in one of those pits would knock some sense into you!" "Dylan, that's unreasonable," said Terria. "I don't care. For years I thought that sending Alycione off to study magic was the greatest thing. I was so proud of you, Alycione, and you've betrayed everything that your mother and I fought for!" Alycione shook her head. "I have to follow my heart!" "You're heart's damned! You're going to be sent to Hell if you don't stop this foolishness!" Alycione gave her father a cold look. "I don't need to take this from you!" she shouted. Then she raised her staff and disappeared. "That was bad," said Rogue. Dylan was fuming. He sat a distance from the group in his anger. "We need to work together now," said Clef. "If they keep this up then we'll lose sight of Presea. If we stop willing her well being… then she might get stuck in Hell forever…"
By now Presea had regained her wits. She had left the cavern with the icy river and was now going deeper into Hell. The demons weren't giving up though. Presea could feel them pulling at her, trying to draw her to them. One false move and they would be ready. Presea was becoming wary of Hell. She wondered where Braden was and if she would ever find him. Or would the demons get to her first? She entered another huge cavern. There were more pits and more souls working. She heard them call to her just as the others had earlier. "Presea…" Presea covered her ears. "I'm not listening to you!" "Help us! Please help us!" cried the damned, then the caverns echoed with insane laughter and shrieks. Presea dropped to the ground. "Leave me alone! Just go away!" Presea was vulnerable now. The demons took this as their chance. They began to advance onto her. "Presea, join us in darkness, Presea…" they chanted. "Not a chance!" shouted a voice. The air erupted with the surprised cries of the demons. One by one they disappeared back into Hell. Presea was on the ground, arms wrapped around herself, shuddering. Then she felt another pair of arms around her. She looked up, right into a pair of blue eyes. Those eyes… She gasped. "Braden!" He pulled her close to him. "Presea, I can't believe that it's you!" "Oh Braden!" She threw her arms around him. "You're here! I've found you!" Braden took Presea's face into his hands and looked into her eyes. Slowly, he absorbed every memory of her. This was almost a dream, to have Presea standing here before him. How he had missed her. He felt tears. "Presea, I'm so sorry. I abandoned our kingdom. I let Tristan…" Presea shushed him. "The people forgive you. I'm just happy to see you. And I will get you out of here." "Why did you take such a big risk? Those demons…" "I love you." Braden's heart swelled with joy. "I love you too." "Then come on. You're going to Elision!" It's not that simple, a voice said. "Did you hear that?" asked Presea. Braden nodded. "What is it?" Suddenly a figure appeared before them. It was a tall, dark, shadowy figure. "You," said Presea. "You're that dark man. You brought Braden here…" The figure's tone didn't change. "Yes. And you've come all of this way to get him out. I admire your courage, but it's not that simple. You must overcome the trials of Hell. You can't just escape." "What trials?" asked Presea. The man disappeared. "Hey! Wait!" shouted Braden. Then he turned to Presea. "I don't know what he could be talking about." "I don't know, argh!" Presea screamed. "What is it?" Braden asked, his voice panicked. "I don't know. It hurts!" She dropped to the ground, holding her sides. Braden dropped next to her. "Come on! You came this far! Don't die on me now!" Presea kept screaming. "They're killing me! I can't stop them!" "Who? What is it?" "Demons!" Presea cried in pain. "Expel the demons! They're trying to claim my soul!" Braden remembered his lessons from so long ago. They had all been taught how to expel demons from their studies when they were children. Braden placed his hands on Presea's sides. "On behalf of the Almighty! I expel you demons out! Leave and never return to us again! Demons are expelled now!" he chanted. Presea twisted and turned, but Braden kept a firm grip on her body. Then she convulsed and lay motionless. "Presea?" Braden asked. Presea opened her eyes. "You did it. I knew you could." Braden helped Presea up and hugged her. "Thank goodness that's over. Thank goodness that you're all right!" Braden repeated over and over. Presea took his hand. "Come on, let's try to get out of here."
Presea and Braden had been walking and walking. But the further they walked, the more lost they became. It was like walking around in circles. "Braden, I think we passed this cavern before," commented Presea. "I know. This place is like a maze." "Hey did you see that?" "What?" Presea walked over to the wall. "This crack. It’s just big enough for us to fit through. Look, I think there's something in there…" Braden peered into the crack. "It seems like another cave. Maybe it's the way out." Presea drew her rapier. "I'll go first." "Are you…" "Yes I'm sure." Presea stepped gingerly through the crack and Braden followed. What they found astonished them. "What is this?" Presea asked. They were in a cave, but it was strange indeed. Every inch of the cave seemed like a mirror. Braden and Presea saw their reflections everywhere. "This is beyond strange," said Braden. Presea gasped and clung to Braden. "What's wrong Presea?" "Look…" Braden looked down and his eyes went wide. He was standing at the edge of an abyss. Presea had almost fallen. Then he remembered her fear of heights and falling. "Where'd that come from? It wasn't there before," Presea said, panic in her voice. "I don't know," Braden said, trying to sound a bit confident. Presea's heart was beating fast and Braden placed a comforting arm around her shoulders. "You're ok?" "Yeah that just surprised me." Then they began to hear echoes. Echoes of wild shrieking and cackling coming closer and closer… "Demons!" Presea shouted and suddenly all went dark.
Presea felt the cold stone floor beneath her. She stood up and shook her head. What had just happened? She looked around. The reflecting room was gone and now she was in a stone room. "Hey Braden?" she called. "Braden? Are you all right? Where are you…" Then she saw him near the wall of the cave. "There you are!" She ran to him. "What do you think just…" Suddenly Braden turned around sharply, a sword in his hand. He barely missed Presea by inches. She stared at the blade and then at Braden. His eyes were stone cold. "Braden?" He swung the sword at her. Presea ducked and backed up. "Braden! What's wrong with you?"
Braden was standing, a bit dazed. Something strange had just happened. His vision was a bit distorted. He blinked a few times and looked around. Where was Presea? "Presea?" he called. "Braden," came her voice. But it was so weak. He spun around. She was standing before him, pale as a ghost. Her body was scratched and bruised. And she was shaking. "What happened to you?" Braden asked. Presea shook her head and just looked at him, tears in her eyes. Braden wanted to put his arms around her to comfort her, but something was stopping him. "Where have I seen this before?" asked a familiar voice. Braden's jaw dropped as a figure appeared beside Presea. "Tristan!" Braden gasped. "What have you done to her?"
"Braden…is there something wrong?" Presea asked, a bit alarmed. Braden didn't speak. Instead he lashed out at her with the sword again. Presea met him with her rapier. He doubled back and came at her again. "Braden! Stop it!" Presea kept blocking his attempts to get her, but she didn't understand. Why was Braden suddenly fighting with her? It didn't make any sense. Suddenly she felt a blade meet her skin. Braden had gotten her in the leg. Presea looked at him, eyes filled with anger and confusion. Blood slowly began to drip down her leg. She would have to fight back. Presea swung her rapier and charged at Braden…
Tristan laughed at his brother. "Braden, my dear brother, does this scene not look familiar to you?" "What are you talking about?" Braden asked. "Not long ago there was a fight. A fight in the forest. She couldn't save you Braden. And look at the pain she feels… doesn't that just twist your heart?" Braden looked at Presea. She looked so weak, her face etched with pain. Tristan turned and advanced on Presea. "Don’t touch her!" Braden shouted in anger. He tried to run… tried to block Presea from Tristan. Tristan looked at Braden and smirked. "Now, brother, feel the pain that she felt…" Braden then watched in horror as Tristan pulled his arm back and swiftly plunged his hand into Presea's chest.
Braden blocked Presea's charge and threw her back against the wall. Smiling with contempt, he lunged at her and began slashing her time and time again with his sword. Presea couldn't stop him. She'd have to kill him… something that she would never ever do. "This isn't real!" Presea shouted, then groaned in pain. "Braden, you'd never hurt me! You'd never do this!" Braden's eyes were unchanging. Presea gasped. "You… you're not Braden!"
"Presea!" Braden cried in horror as he watched Tristan. He had to stop Tristan. But he couldn't move. He was frozen. Presea dropped to her knees as Tristan smiled down at her, his hand still in her body. Braden saw blood pour from Presea's body. Her eyes were glazing over. "Tristan! Stop! Leave her alone!" Braden was in a frenzy. Then Tristan stepped back and disappeared. Presea slumped over. Suddenly Braden was free to move. His stumbled and crawled over to Presea. He held her in his arms, not wanting to believe what had just happened. But it had. Blood continued to flow from Presea's mortal wound. She looked up at him, but her eyes wandered. Then they closed. "Presea? No! I can't lose you again!" Braden cried. Then he realized that Tristan had just done to Presea what he had done to him. Except now Braden saw it from Presea's point of view. Presea was dead. Braden collapsed over Presea's body, wailing in agony. "This isn't happening! Not to Presea! This isn't real!"
Presea didn't feel the cold blade hit her body anymore. All she felt was the beating of her heart. "The heart which believes," she whispered and closed her eyes. "Braden, you wouldn't hurt me. I know. This isn't you. It must be a demon! Be gone demon! This isn't real! It's an illusion!" Presea concentrated. She felt chills run through her body, but she wouldn't let go of her concentration. There was a scream and Presea opened her eyes to see nothing but brightness.
"Presea," Braden kept repeating between sobs. "I let this happen! It's my fault." He stared at Presea's dead body. "It can't be real," he muttered. "Tristan wouldn't do this to her! I don't care how insane he is. He wouldn't kill Presea. I don't believe this! I'm imagining this. Leave my head, demons, and let me regain peace!" he shouted. Suddenly his vision began to blur and distort once again. Braden fell back and hit the floor. When he opened his eyes he saw nothing but brightness.
Alycione was angry. How dare her father damn her to Hell? No matter how much she tried she just couldn't seem to get it across to him that she wasn't totally evil. "I'm not evil!" she cried. "I'm not! Presea, get out of Hell! Tell my father that I'm not a bad person!" Alycione began to cry uncontrollably. She hadn't cried in months now, not since she had developed her cool exterior. But inside she felt shattered. She loved Zagato so much. She would truly do almost anything for him. But her father… Alycione hated herself for betraying him, but her devotion to Zagato was unchanging. She was following her heart, though it wasn't leading her on an easy path. But now she felt hope. Maybe when Presea returned everything would work out. "Presea, I hope you and Braden are all right. I want both of you to return." Suddenly she heard Zagato's voice in her head. "Alycione, my dear sorceress where are you? I miss having you here by my side. Will you ever return to me, Alycione?" Alycione gasped. "Zagato. I will come back to you, I promise." She stood up straight. "I am Alycione, sorceress for high priest Zagato. I serve no other…" Then she laughed hysterically.
The brightness finally cleared. Presea was breathing hard. She stood up, covered in her own blood. Braden was on the floor across the room, his arms trying to grasp something that wasn't there. Presea approached him, rapier in hand. "Braden?" she asked uncertainly. He looked up, his eyes went wide. "Presea?" He jumped to his feet and threw his arms around her. "You're alive! He didn't kill you!" "What?" Braden looked into her eyes seriously. "Tristan was here… he plunged his hand into your heart… he killed you." "And you were attacking me. This is all making sense now." "It is?" "This room… must be a room of illusion." "That explains it. None of what we saw was real, except for..." He indicated Presea's cuts. "They're scratches, really. I'm fine. I'm just glad that you're all right." "We were being tested again," Braden muttered. "That's what I figured too." Suddenly the ground began to shake. "What's happening?" Presea yelled over the noise. Braden grasped her wrist, trying to steady both of them. "It's an earthquake of some sort!" The shaking knocked both of them off of their feet. And then the ground began to break. It was shattering and crumbling. Then Braden looked up just in time to see Presea fall through one of the cracks. He called her name, but heard nothing. Fearing the worst, he dove into the crack, hoping to catch up with her.
Presea had landed in another cavern. She sighed as she felt another bruise coming up. Then Braden landed beside her. "Braden? Are you hurt?" "No, just making sure that you weren't." "The fall wasn't that bad." Braden stood and offered a hand to Presea. She smiled and accepted his help. They looked around. "So where are we now?" asked Presea. "I have no idea. All of these caverns look the same." "Yeah but look at the color of this one." Braden did agree with Presea that the color was strange. It was a deep red, not a normal color in the caverns of Hell. "Do you think it's another illusion cave?" Presea said. Braden shrugged. "Perhaps I can help you with your problem," said a voice that sent chills up and down both Braden's and Presea's spine. They immediately turned to the direction from where the voice had come. At first it was only a shadow. Then the shadow moved from the darkness. Standing before them was a man. His black robes were tattered, his eyes sunken in. His black hair was mussed and dirty. His gray eyes were dull, but almost sparkled for a moment when they saw who stood before them. "Presea," the voice whispered. "Tristan. I never thought that I'd see you again. I never wanted to either," she said, restraining the pain in her voice. Braden placed a comforting hand on her shoulder. "Presea, you came. I knew you would." "Why? It was a mistake." "No. It's because this is our destiny." "What are you talking about?" Braden interjected. Tristan smirked at his younger brother. "I was meant to be with Presea. You weren't, Braden. All you've done is cause us pain!" He screamed and blasted Braden into the wall. Braden fell unconscious. Presea gasped and looked back at Tristan. "Don't do this, Tristan. I love Braden. You know that…" He walked toward her. "Yes, I know that," he said softly. "But it's that love that destroyed your kingdom! You were the cause of Questria's downfall. And how does that make you feel? Pain… you feel pain, don't you?" Presea kept a straight face. "You're sick Tristan." "I love you Presea." "You don't!" "I do!" "No!" "Yes!" Tristan slapped Presea hard across the face. Presea growled and faced him again. "I'm not going to fight with you." "Oh, but I'm going to fight you. I've been waiting for this moment since that time in the Forest of Silence. I wanted to bring you here to Hell so that you could see my kingdom. The problem with you, Presea, is that you're too kind for your own good. I must change that." He drew a sword. "And I will end your life. Then your soul will be mine for all eternity." Presea drew her rapier. "Not on your life!" They began to fight. Presea was a bit alarmed at the look in Tristan's eyes. He had a wild insane look. He just might kill her. Presea was also concerned for Braden. Tristan lunged at her, brushing her side with the sword. Presea felt the blood begin to flow. She kept fighting with him. All the while, the look on his face remained the same… insane happiness. He reached out and grabbed one of Presea's arms. With swift motion he kicked the rapier from the other. Presea didn't have time to be shocked. She wretched away from his grasp and rolled across the floor. The rapier was out of her reach and Tristan was coming. He brought his sword down. She caught the blade in her hands, feeling it slice into her palms. She got away again. Tristan jabbed the sword at her, missing her by inches. Presea kept dodging him. Then he got a wild look in his eyes. He extended his arm and outstretched his hand. Presea felt strange energy surround her body. Then she was moving involuntarily. Tristan was drawing her to him. Then he let loose on her, beating her up badly. Presea shielded herself as much as she could while Tristan kept coming at her, spitting words of hate to her. Her body screamed everywhere. Meanwhile on the other side of the cave, Braden awoke from unconsciousness to see Presea getting beat up. He shouted in fury and charged them, but Tristan blasted him back and held him away with a force field. Braden could do nothing but watch as Tristan bent over Presea and pulled her up by her arm. Presea could feel Tristan's firm grip around her body and cringed in pain. Then she felt a blade near her throat. Death was dancing before her eyes. "Tristan…" she muttered. "How do you feel now Presea?" he whispered in her ear. "How does it feel to know that you're going to die and that your husband's soul will vanish forever?" Presea closed her eyes. "If you are so intent on killing me, then please be my guest." "What?" "Kill me now." "I…" "If you're so powerful, then take my life. You've ripped my heart out and worn in on your sleeve plenty of times before." "No, it was you! You ripped my heart many years ago." "Well, revenge is sweet isn't it. So take my life because I'm not afraid of you…or death." Tristan began to shake. This was his chance for revenge. He could complete his insane mission. He could rid himself of the burden on his twisted heart. But something stopped him. The sword clattered to the floor. Tristan collapsed, holding Presea in his arms. He looked at her, tears in his eyes. "Presea, I can't do it! I can't kill you! I won't!" He sobbed over her. Presea's eyes remained closed. Then she whispered something. Tristan's eyes widened as both were engulfed. And Braden watched, terrified, as his brother and Presea disappeared before his eyes.
"What just happened?" screamed Rogue. Everyone was crowded around the orb, shocked and surprised at the battle that had unfolded before them. "Did Tristan just kidnap Presea?" Terria asked. Clef shook his head. "I don't think so. They both disappeared. I'm almost sure that there's a higher force at work here." "But Presea was beaten badly," said Stephen. "And the orb can't follow to where they've gone." "Presea might be in danger," said Dylan. "No," Rogue said, a bit more calmly then he had been before. "Tristan couldn't kill her. I don't think that he'll hurt her, but I don't know where they are. I don't know if he'll take care of her." He slammed his fist into his palm. "Anything could happen to her! And here I am, powerless. Why can't I be there to help her!" The others just agreed silently as they watched Rogue become lost in his frustration.
"Presea! Tristan!" Braden's voice was hoarse as he pulled himself over to where they had disappeared. The ground was spattered with blood, most of it Presea's. Braden was speechless; he couldn't grasp the truth of what had just happened. His head was throbbing. He could barely piece together the scene. "Presea, come back to me! Please come back!" he cried and crumpled on the ground. "I want you here with me. Come back," he kept repeating. When they had disappeared, Braden felt as if the light had gone out. Presea was his light…he needed her now. But she could be anywhere. Weakened by loss of blood and strain of emotion, Braden passed out. A dark figure appeared beside him. "She's getting too close. Braden, Presea won't be able to rescue you. I'll make sure of that." He touched Braden's unconscious body and both disappeared without a trace.
Presea opened her eyes and looked around. She was in a beautiful and peaceful place. The sun was shining. There was green grass and a beautiful river running close by. A slight wind blew through the air. Then she heard moaning behind her. Presea turned and saw Tristan. He was even more of a mess then before. Now he was rocking back and forth, arms folded across his chest. His sword lay beside him. He looked up at her with lost eyes and she backed away. "Presea," his voice whispered. "Don't even. I'm not afraid of you." "I won't hurt you Presea." Presea raised an eyebrow. "That's very funny." "What?" "You won't hurt me. It just makes me want to fall to the floor laughing. Just how many times have you tried to kill me? And you slaughtered my kingdom. You killed my best friends and what was left of my family!" Presea's voice was angrier by the second. "But wait! You didn't stop there. You killed my husband, your own brother! Are you satisfied? Tell me! Why are you still trying to hurt me? Haven't you done enough!" She fell to her knees. Tristan went to her and knelt beside her. He placed a hand on her shoulder. Presea winced and pulled away. "I'm sorry," he said. Presea couldn't look at him. "I don't believe you. How can I believe that after everything that's happened?" "Listen to me, please! I beg you. I was consumed with rage… and jealousy. I was evil. The blackness in my heart took over my life and my soul. It sent me to hell where I rotted for so long in my misery and sorrow. And I hurt so badly. I admit that I was jealous of Braden. I never could have imagined that my little brother could go so far. My evil jealousy destroyed Questria. My evil jealousy is what destroyed your life. If I could go back I'd change everything. But there's nothing I can do now but apologize to you. Presea, I never truly wanted to hurt you. I was blinded by evil. In my own insane way… I just wanted the best for you. I wanted to protect you. I wanted to do everything for you, but I did everything wrong. Seeing you again… I almost killed you… I couldn't do it. I didn't want you to feel anymore pain and suddenly I realized that I didn't even like my ways anymore. I'm just so sorry for everything…" And for the first time, Presea saw the calm and cool Tristan totally break down. Tears were falling from his eyes. Half of Presea didn't want to believe it… but the other half was stronger. She saw true sincerity in his words. "Tristan?" "I love you Presea. Since the first time I saw you… I always tried to let you know, but it was never the right way. I dreamed of you and me together for eternity. I had that dream for the longest time. But now I see that you and Braden were really meant to be. But I won't stop loving you. I'll love you till the end of time." Then he began to cry uncontrollably. Presea was taken aback. Tristan… had been her enemy for years. He had always found a way to torment her. All of those years of bottled up emotion… those years where the emotion had come out as violence. But now… he was as lost as a small child. It was almost like how Presea had felt when she couldn't remember anything. Presea felt her heart soften. She hesitated… and then put a shaky arm around Tristan. "Presea?" he asked. She was silent. Then she sighed. "Tristan, for so many years I've avoided you. I didn't want anything to do with you because… well you frightened me. But I didn't realize… how much this would hurt you. I didn't know… All of these years, I think have been such a big heap of confusion and misunderstanding. I'm sorry that I ignored you. I sort of wish that we all had a second chance. It might not have ended like this." They stood slowly. Presea smiled at Tristan. His face lit up for the first time in years. "Your beautiful smile… that's all I've wanted for years. I just wanted you to smile at me." She laughed. "Tristan, you've cause us all a lot of pain, but we must move on." Then she took a deep breath. "What are you doing?" asked Tristan. "I forgive you Tristan." He could hardly believe his ears. "What did you say." She looked into his eyes and spoke louder. "I forgive you." Tristan gasped. Suddenly he felt a strange energy pour into his body. Warmth and light… two things he hadn't felt since childhood. The wind picked up. His eyes closed. He felt as if he was in a dream. Tristan could feel himself floating… away…
Tristan opened his eyes to a new place. It looked similar to where he had just been. But now, he felt no revenge and no evil. He glanced down. His tattered black robes were gone and in their place was an outfit of white and gold. "This is…" he muttered and looked around. He realized that there were hundreds of eyes staring at him. Those eyes were full of confusion and even a bit of pain. They wondered what Tristan was doing there in Elision. "You're all… the people of Questria," he finally said. "Are you ready to apologize?" asked a voice from the past. Tristan turned. "Mother?" His mother, Mandella was standing there, her face full of joy. Her arms were open and Tristan walked into them. "Oh mother! I've missed you for so long!" "My son, my son. You're a new person now aren't you." "I am." Then he felt a hand on his shoulder. Chigef was standing behind them. Tristan knelt to him. "Father, I'm sorry that I betrayed you… and our kingdom. I should have rotted in Hell for all eternity, but a greater soul saved me with forgiveness." Instead of getting angry, Chigef smiled. "Rise, Tristan. We forgave you too, but there are more than us. You must apologize to the people. That is the first step to becoming a truly good man." Tristan looked out at the sea of people. "You… you're all from Questria. And I took your lives." Tristan's voice choked a sob. "I can never repay you for what I've done, but I'm sorry. I'll spend the rest of eternity making it up to all of you. That's my promise." The crowd of people whispered among themselves. Then a cheer rang out across Elision. Tristan couldn't believe that he was being accepted here… in this place of good. It was a new feeling for him. He liked it. Then he turned to his mother and father. "But where's Presea?" They indicated a group of people. Tristan recognized them to be her family, some friends, and the old Master Smith, Riley. He quickly walked to the group. Presea was sleeping peacefully in the center. They all backed away for Tristan. He knelt by Presea's side. "Thank you. You saved my life…" He looked at her sleeping face. "My brother is one lucky man, but… Presea please forgive me one more time for this might be the only chance I ever get to do this." He bent over and kissed her lightly on the lips. Then he stood and looked at her mother and father. "I cannot thank you both enough. Without her, I'd be lost." Then Presea stirred and awoke. She sat up with a start. "Braden! Where is he? I'm in Elision again!" She jumped up. "Presea, calm yourself," said Benedict. Presea took a few deep breaths. "Tristan! You made it here!" she exclaimed upon seeing him. He laughed. "But if you’re here then that means that I can bring Braden here too." "That's true," said Mandella as she and Chigef joined the group. "By forgiving Tristan, Presea was granted the power to save Braden." "Then that's why you wanted me to rescue him… it would enable me to rescue Braden as well." Mandella nodded. "Thank you. Now I just need to go back and get him." "I'm afraid that it won't be that simple," spoke up Ademus. "But why?" "He's been taken deeper into hell. By one of the most powerful…" "I'm going to go get him! He deserves to be here!" She started for the gate out of Elision. "Wait!" said Tristan. "What is it?" He pulled out her rapier. "How did you…?" "I don't know. But take it." Presea took the rapier. Tristan placed his hand on her forehead. "Please save my brother," he whispered, and Presea was immediately teleported from Elision.
Presea found herself back in Hell. She secured her rapier and looked around. She realized that she was deeper in Hell then before. The demons here were more insane and deadly. "Braden…where are you?" she asked to nobody in particular. "The heart which believes…" she closed her eyes. In her mind she could see Braden. He was in pain. Her eyes snapped open. She knew where he was. "Wait for me Braden! I'm coming!"
Braden opened his eyes and found himself chained to a wall. He sighed. For some reason he was always being chained to a wall. His body ached from where Tristan had slammed him. Worries ran through his mind. He still didn't know what had happened to his beloved Presea. "There's no need to worry," hissed a voice. "What…?" He looked over to one side and saw a dark shadow. "Who are you? What have you done with me?" "Let's just say that…you're the bait." "What are you talking about." The shadow laughed. "You're the bait for one of the strongest mortal souls in existence." Then it dawned on Braden that the shadow was talking about Presea. "Don't go near her! Lay one finger on her and I'll…" "You'll do what? I don't think that you're in a position to talk now are you? Just wait… she'll join you as a servant to me. And you'll be together forever. Now isn't that nice?" "No," Braden spat. "Really? Well Braden, I think it's nap time for your soul." The shadow snapped a finger and an orb appeared. The orb floated into Braden's body. He instantly felt woozy. "What_have_you_done…" "Sweet dreams Braden. Forever."
Presea stopped short and put her hand over her heart. Something had happened. Something wasn't right. Braden was in serious danger. She gathered her thoughts and ran through the twisting caverns. Her conscience told her that there was something wrong. Presea felt dread. Then the smaller caverns ended into one big cavern. In the center of the cavern was another river. And on the other side was… Presea gasped. "Braden!" He was there… hanging on the wall, unmoving. "Braden! Can you hear me?" Then a shadow appeared beside Braden. "So we finally meet Presea. I've been looking forward to this, mortal soul." "Who are you? What have you done to him!" Slowly the shadow began to gain color. Presea was shocked. "You're the Demon Master!" The Demon Master threw his head back and laughed. Presea remembered all of the stories that she had learned as a child. The Demon Master was one of the most powerful forces in Hell, besides for Satan. An ugly man, the Demon Master's main hobby was to capture pure souls for his own soul collection. "Yes, I am the Demon Master. And your little husband here was of great service to me." "What?" "He was my bait to lure you here. And the job was done so well, but now… his soul will disappear." "No!" "Haha! It's fading as we speak." Presea clasped her hands together. "I won't let you have his soul!" She chanted a few words and felt a bit weaker. "You think that will help? You think that giving him half of your life force will help? Nothing can save him now." "I can!" Presea drew her rapier and ran to the river. She remembered what had happened at the previous river, but that didn't stop her. She dove into the river and began swimming. "You think it's that simple?" the Demon Master called. He laughed. "The flames of Hell will end your life before you can even reach the shore!" Suddenly the river burst into flame. Presea jumped, startled. She could stand now, but the flames… She felt the heat against her skin and tried to look beyond them. The Demon Master was grinning ear to ear. Presea screamed as she felt the flames catch to the bottom of her breeches. She would burn alive if she didn't escape. Hoping that luck was on her side, Presea flipped… and landed on the shore. She rolled and the fire on her clothes was snuffed out. Now they looked like tattered rags. Presea stood, rapier ready. "I will kill you. I will save my husband." She charged at the Demon Master. He blasted her back with his power. "Keep it coming, Presea!" Presea regained her balance and came at him once again. He drew a sword from thin air and slashed at her. The blade cut into her side. Presea didn't feel the pain of the wound. She did feel her life force weakening. "Please," she whispered. "I must keep going so that Braden lives too." She got up to face the Demon Master again. His cold eyes darkened even further. "Winds of Hell! Take this pure soul!" A strong wind picked up. It swirled around the cavern, flinging stones, dirt, and shards of glass at Presea. One huge stone hit her head and she collapsed. Blood began to trickle down her face. Presea stuck her rapier into the stone and pulled herself up. "I will not die! Braden and I will…make this…" The Demon Master appeared before her and lifted her by the neck. Presea felt herself choke and gasped for air. He looked into her eyes. "Your soul is mine!" Then he threw her into the wall and she slumped right below Braden. The Demon Master held his sword above her. "First you'll die and then I'll extinguish Braden's soul as well!" Presea's vision blurred and the room spun and all she saw was the Demon Master standing over her, victory in his eyes.
"No!" shouted Terria. "He's going to kill them both! We can't let this happen!" She turned to the rest of the group, a frantic look in her eyes. "The heart which believes… has the most power here in Cephiro," Clef said. "Well then let's pool our hearts together and remind Presea that we all believe in her!" shouted Terria. "But…it might not even do any good!" "We must give her the strength to carry on! Please you guys!" Stephen took his wife's hand. "Terria's right. I believe in her." Together they closed their eyes. Rogue stood beside them. "She's like my sister so of course I believe in her." He closed his eyes. Dylan looked at Clef and nodded. They shut their eyes as well. "Presea, be strong. We believe in you."
Elision was abuzz with worry. "He's going to take her soul!" Gwyneth cried. Kerry shook her head. "We cannot let him have her! Or Braden!" She turned and looked over Elision. "Hear me, Elision! The power of the heart is the greatest power! Put your hearts together for Presea and Braden! Believe in them! Please!" Presea's family joined hands and lowered their heads. Kerry dropped to her knees. "Please, Presea, make it out! We're counting on you!"
Alycione had been sitting alone for a while now. She had been watching Presea through her own orb while still being torn by her feelings. "Zagato…I miss you…" she whispered. Suddenly the orb lit up. "What's happening?" She peered into it. "Presea! The Demon Master! Presea, believe in yourself! Your heart is strong. The power of the will…" Alycione placed her hand over her heart. "You're my friend. You've stuck by my side through all of these tough times. Though Zagato might feel anger toward me for doing this… I believe in you. I'm going against Zagato's wishes. That means that you must get up and fight! Save your love! Be strong!"
Tristan could still barely believe that he was in Elision. Everything felt so different and so wonderful to him. He walked among the people and was surprised to find them all with their eyes closed. He tapped one of the men. "What are you doing?" "Oh! Presea and Braden are in grave danger! The Demon Master is going to take Presea's soul and extinguish Braden's! We're all sending Presea vibes…telling her to be strong and to follow her heart!" Tristan thanked the man. He hurried away from the people and went to one of the streams. Peering into the stream he could see Presea and his brother. Presea had split her life force to keep Braden alive and now both were dying. He touched the water and a wish came to his heart. "Presea, I know you can hear me. You must save my brother. Please triumph over evil because if evil takes over then all chaos will break loose. Then the world will suffer. You must stop the Demon Master! Please bring Braden safely to Elision! And please… watch over him and protect him for all eternity. The same goes for you, Braden, for I know that you can hear my words. Protect each other and your love because the power of it exceeds great boundaries! I love you both and I do believe that you can overcome this evil!" Tristan felt his thoughts soar and was sure that they would reach Presea and Braden… before it was too late.
The Demon Master laughed. "Time to go, Presea!" He brought down the sword and cried out in surprise when it bounced away from Presea's body. Slowly, Presea rose. Her eyes were pools of brown, and she looked as if she had been possessed. She lifted her hands. "The power of the heart… and the power of the will… controls everything. I won't let you hurt us anymore." Presea felt energy gather at her fingertips. "What is this power?" shrieked the Demon Master. "It's the power…of my love!" Presea felt the energy reach its peak and suddenly a golden beam shot from her hands. It hit the Demon Master. "No! This can't be! I'm all powerful!" He screamed. The beam sent him down… back into the depths of Hell where the other demons screamed and screeched insanely. Presea turned to Braden. "Braden…" And she collapsed over his body. A golden light surrounded both of them… and the cavern was suddenly empty.
The group on Cephiro stared dumbfounded at the volcano. The entrance to the Underworld… was glowing brightly. "I think that she made it," said Dylan. The others were speechless. Suddenly Presea shot out of the volcano and floated softly to the ground. She was beaten badly, but she was still alive. "Presea!" shouted Rogue, and ran to her. His face was full of relief and happiness. "Don't do that to me again! You nearly gave me a heart attack, more than once!" The others crowded around her. "She's still out," said Terria. "Everything must be catching up with her now. She'll need to rest it out for a few days." Everybody was just happy that she survived. "But what ever happened to Braden?" asked Stephen. "Hmm… that's right," said Dylan. What had happened to Braden? Suddenly the ground shook. The volcano glowed once again…and Braden shot out of it just as Presea had. "Do you see what I see?" asked Rogue. "I do, but I can hardly believe it," muttered Clef. Braden landed not far from Presea. Immediately Stephen and Terria went to check on him. "He… he's alive!" said Stephen. "But how's that possible?" Dylan mused. "The strength of the heart… so many people lent their strength to them that instead of sending Braden to Elision, they brought him back to life," Clef said. "Well I don't care how it happened! This is a dream come true!" cried Rogue. "Let's hurry and get them home!"
Presea felt warmth and comfort… two things that she hadn't felt in a while. She also felt the soreness of wounds. And something was on her feet. She opened her eyes slowly and found herself staring into the faces of her friends. Presea gasped. "I'm back?" Everyone smiled at her. "You made it," Terria said. Presea sat up and realized that Sui was at her feet. When Sui saw her rise, she went over to her and laid her head down in her lap. Presea laughed and petted the dog. Then she looked at everyone. "I can't believe that I'm back. Hey, where's Aly?" The group shifted and exchanged glances. Finally Dylan spoke. "We don't know. I was a bit too harsh on her and she left. I don't know what happened to her and now I feel horrible." Presea sighed. "Believe in her like you believed in me. Everything is bound to turn out all right." "You think so?" "I know so." Presea stretched. "I don't even remember what happened. I blasted that Demon Master and then I passed out and Braden… What happened to him? Did he get to Elision?" Presea was worried. Then she raised an eyebrow. "Hey why are you all smiling at me like that?" The group parted and Presea could see another bed across the room. And lying in that bed was… "Braden!" Presea cried with happiness. She jumped from the bed and almost tripped over her feet. "Whoa," said Stephen. "Steady there Presea." Presea regained her balance and ran to Braden's bed. "Braden! I can't believe this! But how?" "Many people wished for the well being of both of you," said Clef. "And it was those wishes that brought him back from the dead." Presea heard a voice in her head. "Watch over my brother," it said. Presea's face broke into a smile. "Tristan," she whispered. "What happened with him?" asked Rogue. "He… was forgiven. He's become a good person now." The group didn't question it. Then Braden stirred and opened his eyes. "This place… it seems so familiar. I feel at home," he muttered as his eyes adjusted to the light. When his full vision returned the first thing that he saw was Presea's face. "Presea? Is this real? I'm not in an illusion am I?" He sat up and saw the faces of friends. "No way…" "How are you feeling?" asked Presea. "I'm alive?" She began to laugh. "Of course you are! Everyone's hope for us brought you back." Braden swung his feet out of bed and stood up shakily. Then he looked into Presea's eyes. "I'm alive!" he cried happily and took her into his arms. He kissed her passionately. Tears were forming in the eyes of Terria, Stephen, Dylan, and Clef. Meanwhile Rogue shook his head. "Next question. Do they ever come up for air?"
It was now evening in Cephiro. Stephen and Terria were putting Bindi to bed. Clef had disappeared and Dylan had gone back to the Underground Society to make sure that things were running smoothly. Rogue was inside, snoring on the couch. Braden and Presea sat on the dock that was connected to Stephen and Terria's house. "I'm still so happy that you came back with me," said Presea. She was leaning against Braden as they looked out into the swamp. "I just can't believe that I'm alive again. But tell me Presea… what ever happened to Tristan?" "He became good." "What?" "I forgave him as did many others. He realized that his life had been totally destroyed by evil. He's in Elision now with your mother and father." "But how were you certain that he meant what he said?" "His eyes told me so. Besides, it was his strength that shined the brightest. He truly wished for us to get out of there." "You mean that he was the one who gave us the most strength?" "Yes. I guess you can say that." Braden looked up at the stars. "It seems so strange now. A few weeks ago I thought that he was the most evil man that Cephiro had ever known. I really did feel hate toward him. Who would have thought that he'd be the one to save us? I guess that family ties run deeper than I thought. He is my older brother after all. I thank him for what he's done. I'm so happy that we're together again and that it's going to stay that way this time. What do you think Presea?" Braden waited for an answer, but heard nothing but the sounds of the swamp. "Presea? Hey Presea?" He looked beside him. Presea was sound asleep, her head on his shoulder. He laughed softly and brushed a few strands of hair from her face. "Tired already? Well you do deserve rest." He rose and gently picked Presea up. Then he carefully brought her inside. Once inside he laid her down on the bed and covered her with a blanket. Then he lay beside her and just looked at her. The moonlight shone thought the window, casting a beautiful glow over Presea. Braden couldn't help but feel lucky. He was lucky to have Presea. She was his strength…his constant…his home. Despite all of the horrors that she had been through, she still remained strong. Her face stayed peaceful and beautiful. A smile spread across Braden's lips. He didn't always understand how Presea remained so grounded, but he was thankful to have her. After all those years, Presea was still the most beautiful thing in Braden's life. He leaned over and kissed her quietly. "I love you Presea," he whispered in her ear. Then he placed an arm around her and fell asleep, never wanting to let her go.
All good things must come to an end. A few days had passed and finally life had to return to normal. Braden and Presea were playing with Bindi while Stephen and Terria watched. Presea was almost fully healed, with the help of magic. She was back in her old red outfit and Smith's apron. And then Clef appeared. "Hello to you all. Braden, Presea, it's good to see that you both are finally well again." Braden was bouncing the baby in his lap. "It's good to be back, Master Mage." Clef nodded and then looked at Presea. "Presea, the time is nearing." "The time of the Magic Knights… how could I forget?" "Yes. Any day now… the Magic Knights might get summoned. You must be there to make their weapons." "Then it's back to the Forest of Silence?" "Yes, I'm afraid so." Presea nodded, all serious. "I knew it would come to this anyway." She rose to her feet. Braden stood as well, Bindi in his arms. Stephen and Terria walked over to them. Braden handed Bindi to Terria. Stephen touched Presea's shoulder. "You'll be all right?" "I will." "Please watch out for yourself," added Terria. Presea took them both into a hug. "You know that I will. You just take care of Bindi and Sui for when I get back. It won't be too long now. I promise that I'll come back safely." "You better," joked Rogue. He hugged Presea. "But really, in all seriousness, be careful. You're like my sister and I don't want to lose you." "I'll be careful. But you better be careful too. Don't do anything too stupid." "Me?" mocked Rogue. "I'd never…" Then they broke into laugher. Presea then turned to Braden. He smiled at her and took her hands into his. "Well they've all told you to be careful, so I can't say that… I'll miss you though." "You know I'll miss you too. Put it this way though, we'll be together again before you know it." "I know. I love you Presea." "I love you too… forever Braden." "Forever Presea." Then they kissed. "Don't worry," said Terria. "We'll make sure that he stays out of trouble." "Yes mom," said Braden. Rogue rolled his eyes and Stephen and Terria laughed. Then Presea turned to Clef. "I'm ready." He nodded. "Take my hand." Presea obeyed and both disappeared from the house.
Presea stared at the large house in the Forest of Silence. "Well here I am," she muttered. Clef looked at her. "You'll be all right here?" "Of course." "I knew you would. That's why I'm happy that you're the Master Smith. The Knights… should be here any day now." "I know. And I'm ready." "Then I must go await their arrival." "Good luck, Clef." "You too, Presea." Then Clef disappeared. Presea entered the large house and was greeted by… "Makona!" Makona bounced around happily. "Puu puu puu!" it exclaimed. "That's still all you can say?" "Puu!" Presea rolled her eyes and then went to the study. It was a mess. "Makona! I can't believe you! I go away for one second and everything's destroyed! You're more trouble than you're worth! So how should I punish you?" Makona just bounced down the halls. Presea laughed and took off down the halls to get Makona.
Meanwhile in Princess Emeraude's castle, Lord Zagato paced. Where had Alycione gone? That sorceress… there was something up with her. Then he heard a sound. He turned and saw none other than Alycione entering the room. "You! Alycione! Where have you been?" She looked up at him, her blue eyes dancing. "You should know my lord. The Forest of Silence." "Ah, yes. And what did you find there? Anything?" Alycione looked at him. "No." "Nothing?" "It was silence. Nothing at all." And Alycione returned to her spot in the falls, leaving Zagato to think it over. She smiled to herself. Presea and Braden were safe. But that legend of the Magic Knights would occur now. "No matter," Alycione whispered. "Everything will work out for all of us. It always does. Presea, thank you for everything. You taught all of us an important lesson." Alycione thought of her father. "Even though not everyone can see it… Presea, you showed me that if you follow your heart nothing to stand in your way. You were right. Anything's possible if you believe in yourself… the strength of the heart triumphs over all. Thank you." Alycione closed her eyes. The sun set over Cephiro. The mission was over… for the time being.
Presea glanced from one of the large windows of the house. It had been the strength of so many people that had saved her life. And for that, Presea was grateful. She smiled at the starry sky. "It's good to be back," she said. Then she got up, blew out the lamp and went to bed. The terror was over, and now it was time for a new beginning. Presea couldn't wait, for the strength of the heart had the most power. Presea pulled the covers up to her neck. "It really is good," she repeated. Then Presea fell asleep. And everything was peaceful once again.

Part 1

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