Fallen Moon

Once they had reached the forests, it was now evident that they were in Lord Grimm’s domain. Movement could be heard in trees, no doubt werewolves alerting their king of their arrival. Still, the chance of the werewolves becoming brave and daring an ambush slim as it was. It was still a possibility. As a precaution, Scythe kept his grip on his blade for if any wolf tried to harm his king. He’d kill them on sight. His pale jade eyes watched the shadows, the treetops for any sign of an ambush. None so far, they were being smart.

“We will stop here for now,” Lord Alexander snapped his fingers. A giant mansion made of diamond emerged from the ground. “We will be closing in on the castle shortly and we need to give my brother time to alert his packs of my arrival. We don’t want to find ourselves surrounded by Nightshade or the Elemental guard or possibly both.”

“Nightshade,” Scythe gripped his sword. That’s right, they were getting closer to the castle and the closer they got to the castle. The closer they were to Nightshade’s campsite. He remembered his last encounter with them. Or rather, one werewolf in particular, Alejandro. His eyes burned with anger at the thought of seeing that wolf again.

Scythe watched as Lord Alexander’s army began falling back fleeing from the giant werewolf. Among them, there was one person he did not see. “My son,” He reached for his sword and charged to the frontlines. “Out of my way,” He ran a straight line through an entire chunk of Lord Grimm’s army cutting them all in half. He managed to do this without getting a single trace of blood on his blade. “Don’t worry, Sai, I’ll be there shortly.” He ran faster picking up speed, cutting his way past werewolves trying to reach his son who was left at the frontlines by himself. “What?”

The giant werewolf let out a huge howl. The noise was so loud, it unleashed a powerful shockwave. It pushed Scythe back while obliterating over half of Lord Alexander’s army. “Such power,” Scythe eyes widened realizing what caused the wolf to unleash the howl. His son, he was flying in the air staring this giant wolf in the eyes. Two dragons swirled around Sai forming a protective sphere around his body. “Sai, you fool, you can’t possibly be thinking about fighting this beast. Have you any sense at all?” Scythe bit his lip drawing blood. “Obviously not, I suppose, I’ll just have to save you. Such is the burden of being your father.” He started to run toward the wolf only to see the giant wolf being attacked by his son.

“You want a piece of me, come and get it.” Sai began spinning like tornado with the dragons around his body. While he was spinning the wolf was being pelted by thousands and thousands of senbon needles. The wolf blocked as the small needles exploded which could only mean they were mixed with Selene’s explosive blood. It wouldn’t be long before Sozin picked up on this and would realize Selene had made it to the frontlines. “Nah that’s not enough to kill you but this might be.” Sai fused the black dragon with the white dragon making a giant gray dragon. It let out a screech hitting the wolf’s sensitive ears. Wait, this dragon it made of, the dragon dispersed becoming smoke entering the wolf’s nose, eyes and ears. “You’re mine now,”

The wolf started swinging its claws left and right as the smoke cut off it’s ability to see, smell and hear. It could only feel for enemies. Sai flew around the wolf, slashing at it’s legs, it’s ankles, it’s back, cuts were forming all over the giant wolf as he flew faster and faster. It was like being attacked by a swarm of wasps.

“Now burn,” Sai shot a flamethrower from his mouth at the wolf’s face. He switched his hand sign and the flames were switched to wind increasing the amount of flame. He switched the hand sign again and the beast was struck by a powerful bolt of lighting. Right after the wolf was shocked, he switched his hand sign and struck him with a burst of water. “Now to bring the beast down.” Sai hands touched the ground. The entire ground started to shake and in seconds the ground began to rise, striking the wolf’s feet with pillar after pillar making it lose its footing. “This should finish it,” He jumped forward striking the beast with both the white and black dragon at the same time blasting it back. Before the wolf could fall, it rolled across its back regaining its footing and reducing the damage of the fall. “Damn it even after all that,” The wolf breathed out of its nose and the smoke came out allowing him to regain his sight and smell. “It has that much strength left. What kind of werewolf are you?” The wolf’s hand reached out to grab him. Sai began rotating, spinning around creating a slicing barrier around his body. The two dragons were striking the beasts hand again and again, preventing him from closing it and crushing Sai.

Scythe couldn’t believe it. His son was fighting this giant wolf. A wolf most vampires would never dream of fighting. His son was fighting it and actually posing a threat to this creature. He was doing so by not only using his ninja techniques but the things he learned from him and his brother. This level of strength to think, his son possessed it. “I was wrong about you, I was wrong about everything, Ninjas aren’t weak, it isn’t a cowards way of fighting. No, it’s my son’s way of fighting and I couldn’t be more proud.” The wolf pulled back, having cuts all over his hands from trying to crush Sai.

“I can do this, I can beat him, I just need a little more. Selene, more blood,” Sai ran at the wolf. Selene throw him a via of her blood. He laced his blades with it as he cut the beast. It was being by explosion after explosion. “More,” He requested, Selene tossed him vial after vial. Wait, his son was at his limit, that’s why he’s relying on Selene.

“I have to help him,” Scythe went to rush in but was punched by Lord Grimm. He tumbled across the ground, spitting up his teeth. “Shit, I got careless,” He wiped blood from his lip. “Look Werewolf King, your fight isn’t with me. It’s with Lord Alexander. So take it to him and leave me alone.”

“I would but the thought of killing my brother’s best friend is just too good to pass up.” Lord Grimm stepped forward. “You’ve created quite the name for yourself. The Legendary Scythe, slayer of werewolves. You’ve killed so many of us and I think it’s time I returned the favor.” He smirked. “So, let’s see how legendary you are.” He popped his knuckles.

“The full moon is up and yet,” Scythe noticed Lord Grimm was unphased by its effect. His control over his werewolf state. It’s impressive. It’s more than that, he’s trained himself to absorb the moonlight into his body and use it’s effect for later. “Very well, if you wish to stand in my way then I suppose I have to end the war early by chopping off your head.” He fired wind blades at Lord Grimm. He walked through the attacks, healing from them on contact. Wait, the moon is boosting his ability to heal. He can use it in more ways than one.

“So, you figured it out.” Lord Grimm busted out laughing. “While the full moon is out, I can’t be killed. So now you know why my brother refuses to fight me during the full moon. Because he knows,” He grinned. “He’ll lose. To people like you, it’s like fighting a god.” Scythe kept hitting him with flame dragons. There wasn’t a single burn on his skin. He tried lighting even that, proved itself to be useless. He couldn’t hurt him. He was tanking all of his attacks. “Aw, what’s the matter not so legendary now are you?”

“Why won’t you die?” Scythe kept hitting him trying to keep at a range. Lord Grimm stood there withstanding all of Scythe’s attacks. He yawned, walking closer and closer as Scythe kept stepping back. The elemental dragons kept striking the werewolf king directly dealing no damage at all. “Damn you, damn you, I have to protect my-,” Lord Grimm started laughing as Scythe realized what the king was doing. He was stalling him so the giant wolf could…His eyes widened as he heard a loud scream.

“No,” Selene yelled. The wolf’s foot came down crushing his son beneath it. Scythe dropped his sword as Lord Grimm kept laughing.

“I was never going to kill you.” Lord Grimm confessed. “For someone who claims to be so smart. You’re actually quite dumb. There are worse fates than death. You really are a terrible father.” He busted out laughing. “Now go and mourn your son’s death.” He turned his back to Scythe and walked away.

“This is for my son,” Scythe’s sword broke. A giant metal dragon appeared letting out a loud screech. Lord Grimm turned to face it. The dragon charged at the Werewolf King, he held his hand out grabbing the dragon’s throat and holding it in place. The dragon exploded, firing thousands of needles once Lord Grimm crushed its throat. His hand was dripping blood from gripping the dragon. The full moon shined on his hand, healing the wound instantly. Lord Grimm smirked closing his hand to a fist.

“So is that all the Legendary Scythe has to offer?” Lord Grimm laughed. “You’re not worth my time.” He turned his back to Scythe. He started to walk away but noticed Blaire attacking the giant wolf and knocking it out of wolf state. “Alejandro, if that girl kills him, I’ll rip her heart right out of her chest and send it to my brother as a gift.” He ran towards the fight.

“Brother, there you are.” Sozin ran over to him. “Selene and Blaire, they escaped the medical tents and went to the frontlines. Please tell me you were able to reach them before-.” Selene ran toward Sozin covered in blood. The second Sozin saw the blood, he knew whose blood it was. “Sai, don’t tell me he’s-,”Selene hugged him tightly as tears fled her eyes.

“It’s all my fault, I was only trying to help.” Selene’s eyes were red from the tears. “I was going to self-destruct and take the giant wolf with me. I was going to save Sai but he, but he, he pushed me out of the way and he-. He died, Sozin. It’s all my fault. I shouldn’t have left the tent, it’s all my fault. I’m sorry Sozin. I’m really Sozin, please don’t be mad at me.”

“I told you he wasn’t ready,” Sozin glared at Scythe. “You didn’t listen and now your son, my nephew is dead. You did this, not her, not me, not Blaire, not Lord Grimm, you Scythe, you signed the papers. The only person I blame is you.” Scythe lowered his head, “Let’s go Selene, let’s get you cleaned up.” Sozin began walking Selene back to the castle.

Scythe continued forward to where his son was killed. Blaire was walking away. As she was passing him, her tear filled eyes looked into his. It was one glance but when she looked away unable to face him. It confirmed his worst fear, his son had died. He arrived at the giant wolf foot print where his son’s corpse lied, crushed beyond recognition. The only marker placed next to the print was, a sword. His son’s sword.

“My son,” Scythe fell to his knees beside his son’s blade. His shaking hands reached for the sword. Once he had it, he held it to his chest. Lord Alexander placed his hand on his shoulder as he grieved his fallen child.

“Your son fought bravely,” Lord Alexander spoke. “He did what most vampires would claim to be impossible. He brought the giant wolf Alejandro to his knees. By doing so, he gave us hope. He put his own life at risk to protect Selene and my daughter. It was a hero’s death. As his father, you should be proud. I would be.” He started to walk away.

“Alejandro, you said, that was the werewolf that killed him.” Scythe gripped his son’s sword tightly. “Lord Alexander, I have never asked anything of you. I have always fought alongside you following every order. Even if it contradicted my own beliefs. I’d gladly die in order to protect you. I valued our friendship above all else. So I ask you, as a friend.” His eyes formed an enraged glare. “The werewolf Alejandro, if anyone is to kill him, it will be me. He is my fight and I will take him with me if need be. Please allow me this one request. I know you wish for peaceful resolution to this war and this might contradict that. But, if I don’t avenge my son, If I don’t take Alejandro’s life. I will no longer be able to live with myself. He has to die for what he’s done. Conscious of his actions or not. My son is dead and that beast killed him. So again I ask you as a friend. Will you allow me to kill Alejandro on the battlefield next we meet?”

“Do what you feel you must.” Lord Alexander answered. “Whatever you decide, you have my support as a friend and as a King.” He helped Scythe to his feet.

“Alejandro, you’ve managed to survive every encounter we’ve had.” Scythe closed his eyes. He could see flashes of him and red haired werewolf fighting each other. Every chance Scythe got since then. He’d race to battle the beast. Everytime, Alejandro found ways to counter his every move. Becoming more than just an obsession, a worthy rival. No matter how strong Scythe became, Alejandro grew stronger. The wolf refused to die but this time, Scythe was confident that the great Alejandro would fall to his blade. “You murdered my son and for that. I don’t care what it takes. You will die Alejandro.”

The team was wall sitting by the campfire. To Scythe’s right, sat Lord Alexander himself. To his left was Fate. To the King’s right was Blaire and to hers was Selene. Next to Selene was Brandon beside him was Ziek and Amy. In the back was Jayden sitting next to the diamond cage filled with the men who disappeared the night of Lunar Ball.

“So um,” Fate fondled his fingers together, His pale blue eyes fixated on the campfire. “How come you ugh, never told me about your son?” He glanced over at Scythe.

“There’s not much to talk about.” Scythe explained. “He’s dead and that’s all you need to know.” Fate picked up a stick and threw it in the campfire. The flames burned stronger but Scythe could tell Fate wasn’t satisfied with his answer. “Look you’re a closed book yourself so if you expect me to open up. I suggest you be willing to do the same.”

“Right, well, at least if I had a kid. I would have told you.” Fate rose to his feet and went to leave the camp grounds. He stopped when Scythe let out a sigh. “I lost people too Scythe, I know it’s not as hard as losing a kid but. That shit still hurts especially when you tried everything you could to save that person. What makes it worse is when you try to save that person and everyone thinks of you as some kind of monster for doing so. So yeah, it might not be as bad as losing a kid but dealing with my best friend’s death like that wasn’t easy either. So if we’re comparing losses here, Scythe, I’d say you win but that’s not what’s important.”

“What’s important is that we talk about them.” Fate turned to face Scythe. “I’m your boyfriend, I love the fuck out of you. So if there’s anybody you should have confided in it should have been me. I know I’m not good at that either but maybe if you opened up first. I’d be more willing. I don’t like talking about it either but we can’t just suffer in silence. The fact you had a kid, you should have told me, that’s all I’m saying.”

“You didn’t tell me you dated the Elder.” Scythe shrugged. Lord Alexander’s eyes widened. Blaire’s jaw dropped. “Sorry you had to find out this way but yes Fate fucked the Elder.” Lord Alexander glared at Fate.

“You dated my father.” Lord Alexander’s mouth dropped.

“He did what to my grandfather?” Blaire rose to her feet. “Fate, I knew you were a dirty bastard but my grandfather. You had sex with my grandfather. You nasty.” She threw a rock at him. “That is my grandfather, you dirty whore. Do you realize how old he is? He’s called Elder for a reason, you nasty ass whore.” She threw another rock at him.

“Fate had sex with my-,” Lord Alexander sat there in shock. “I need alcohol, I was not drunk enough to receive that information.” He rubbed his forehead. “Fate, why would you, why do I bother asking these questions. It’s Fate, nothing he does makes much sense to me.”

“Well now that everybody knows that I fucked the Elder.” Fate shrugged. “Let’s hear it, Scythe,” He returned to his spot next to Scythe. “Tell me about your son.” Scythe’s eyes wandered the team as they all had their eyes on him waiting for a story. Lord Alexander left the group, retiring to his mansion. Whenever Sai came up, Lord Alexander made a habit of disappearing during the conversation. Not that Scythe blamed him for it. The death of his son was never easy to talk about. It was a topic both of them tried to avoid. But, it seems the time for dodging the subject has run its course. Both Blaire and Selene were there to see him die but neither of them chose to speak of Sai either. But, Scythe couldn’t keep Fate or Jayden in the dark any longer.

“His name was Sai,” Scythe began. “Though I didn’t raise him, he was my son. He grew up in a small village home to the Ninja arts. It’s worth noting that my family has never gotten along with anyone who used those arts. We hated them, despised them, viewed them as weak yet both trades relied on dragons. We felt ours were superior. We’d even fight with the ninja in hopes of making it a dying art.” He explained. “However, one night, I had a few too many drinks and stumbled across a woman who brought me to my room. One thing led to another, unknowingly I ended up sleeping with the enemy. From that encounter, she bore a child and raised that child without telling me of his existence.”

“I didn’t become aware of Sai’s existence until,”

“Scythe, there’s a boy here.” Lord Alexander stood at Scythe’s doorway. He was in the middle of repairing his sword after another sparring match with his brother. “He claims to be your son.” He added. Scythe maintained focus on the sword.

“It’s a mistake, I have no children.” Scythe answered. “I’ve only slept with men. Send the boy away. He’s not mine.”

“I thought you’d say that but according to his birth certificate he is. Would like me to ask him to provide us with DNA to prove his claim? He’s offered to do so already.” Lord Alexander added, Scythe stopped. “Are you sure he’s not yours? Sozin has already entertained the idea and has agreed to meet the boy. I told him to wait until we’re certain.”

“This is obviously a ruse but,” Scythe rose to his feet. “If this boy is so sure of his lineage. It wouldn’t hurt to meet him. If only so, I can kill him for wasting my time.” He grabbed his sword and made haste down the castle halls. As he was walking, Sozin raced to his side.

“When I got the news, I couldn’t believe it.” Sozin began. “My big brother, a father, I guess those drunk nights finally paid off.” Scythe stopped in place. That’s right, he has been known to frequent the bar after a long battle. He’d end up in weird situations. One situation in particular involved a woman. She was beautiful and kind enough to lead him to his room. Usually when people were brought to his room it led to. “What’s the matter? Did I say something wrong?” Scythe’s hand was on the door. Behind it, was the boy claiming to be his son. “Scythe, aren’t you going to open the door?”

“I plan to, I just need a minute to consider the possibility that he’s telling the truth.” Scythe explained. The moment he said that, Sozin’s jaw dropped. So even he had trouble believing the boy’s claim. “It’s a ruse, it has to be, that boy is not mine.” Scythe opened the door.

Lightning flashed in the background, thunder echoed in his ears. The boy was drenched by the rain. That mask, the boy was wearing a dragon-like mask with a Kanji on it. He was wearing a black muscle shirt with lightweight chainmail underneath. He wore black pants and a bag no doubt filled with tools. He had a dragon tattoo sleeve on his right arm. On his back were two ninja swords.

“So you’re the Legendary Scythe,” The boy removed his mask. Once the mask was removed. It revealed the boy’s pale jade eyes. The same eyes as his, he had long black hair like his, this boy it was like looking into the eyes of his younger self. But this had to be a mistake, this boy’s a ninja, no way, would he be foolish enough to.

“Just a second,” Sozin smiled and shut the door. “You had sex with a kunoichi. Brother I’m impressed, I mean, you literally slept with the enemy. The proof is right outside that door. If father was alive, he’d kill you. To think, you gave me so much shit for fooling around with werewolves and you’re over here fucking ninja’s. Now who’s the traitor? At least I was smart when I did it. I pulled out.”

“Shut up, brother,” Scythe glared.

“Oh no,” Sozin waved his finger at Scythe. “When I was out there, hanging out with Kami in my twenties looking at some hot naked female werewolves who refused to wear a shirt. Who was it that said, I couldn’t sleep with them. It was you, that was you. What did you call me when I did it anyway? You called me a traitor, I was twenty and I know you like guys. So, let’s say it was a bunch of naked guys which they had those too. But I was focused on the women. But at that age. There was no way I was going to not try and you gave me so much shit for it. You can’t tell me, you wouldn’t have done the same. In fact, you did worse, you fucked a ninja.” He yelled. “What did father say about ninja. They are masters of deception and temptresses by nature and sleeping with one is like walking into a deadly trap. You sir, owe me an apology. This is way worse than sleeping with one werewolf.”

“Sozin, enough, I didn’t know she was a kunoichi. It’s different, you knew yours was a werewolf. So you knew what you were doing and I didn’t. This is not the same.” Scythe explained. “So drop it, I have a son and he’s a ninja. My reputation is ruined if word gets out that I betrayed our families morals and bore a son with a kunoichi. That can’t happen, people can not know of this. Sozin, you must not tell anyone of this. I’ll send the boy away and we will not speak of this to anyone.” Scythe stepped outside.

“I apologize for dropping in on you so suddenly.” The boy spoke. “I know it must be a lot for you to take in. To be honest, when my mother told me you were my father. I didn’t believe it either until she gave me this.” He handed Scythe his birth certificate. “Seeing you in person only confirms it, you’re my father.”

“That seems to be the case.” Scythe walked up to him. “What brings you to the castle? Surely you must be getting back to your village where it’s safe.”

“The truth is I have nowhere else to go.” The boy explained. “My village was destroyed and my mother.” He forced a swallow. “She’s no longer with us. Look if you let me stay at the castle, I’ll clean all of your swords, I’ll mop the floors. Whatever you want, I’ll do it, I just need a place to stay. I swear I won’t be a burden to you.”

“Well in that case,” Sozin went to guide the boy inside but Scythe glared at him. “Scythe, he’s family, we can’t just leave him. If a werewolf spots him, he’ll be ambushed and killed. Besides, it’s raining, we can’t just leave him out here. He came all this way.”

“Yes but think of what him being here means to our family.” Scythe argued. “The boy is a mistake. If word gets out, It’ll bring shame to our family name. We can not risk that, as head of our family, I refuse to take such a risk. And as your elder brother, you will honor my decision.” Sozin let out a sigh and went into the castle. “I’m sorry but you can’t stay with us.” He turned his back to the boy and left him outside in the rain.

Scythe stood by one of the windows in the castle. His eyes remained on the boy as he stood there in the rain. He remained there soaked by the storm. The boy truly had nowhere else to go and no one else to turn to. Except him, his father. Lord Alexander stood beside Scythe as he watched the boy stand there in the rain. He’d regret this but he couldn’t bring himself to abandon the boy. “Lord Alexander,” Scythe spoke. “Please have the servants prepare a room for him.”

Lord Alexander’s eyes shifted to one of his servants. Without needing to say a word, the servant rushed to make the arrangements. “If you insist on keeping the boy around. I think it best for us all, we hide the fact he’s your son for now.”

“Agreed,” Scythe went downstairs to let the boy inside. Sozin was there waiting at the doors. “Sozin, were you waiting at the door for me to change my mind?” He crossed his arms.

“If you weren’t going to take him in, I was going to.” Sozin replied, “Ninja or not, that boy is my nephew and there is no way in hell. I’m letting my nephew stand out there in the rain after coming all this way to meet his father.” Scythe let out a sigh and opened the castle doors.

The boy was just about to leave when the doors opened. He turned around to face his father. “Tell me, what is your name? Surely your mother provided you with one so I’m curious to know what she chose.” Scythe waited for the boy’s response.

“Sai, my name’s Sai.” He replied,

Of course, the name in itself screams ninja. Scythe had his work cut out for him. Still, it was better than him sitting out here in the rain. He let out a deep sigh. “Alright Sai, I have made arrangements for you to stay in the castle.”

“Seriously?” Sai’s face lit up. “Thank you so much.” He went to hug Scythe but he held out his hand to stop him.

“Under one condition,” Scythe added. “All of your ninja gear, weapons, and even the training itself must be discarded. My family is a follower of the Samurai arts and we do not take kindly to those who use the ninja arts. If you are to live here, you will live here as a Samurai and you will follow those teachings. I will train you and teach you to be a powerful samurai. I will even pull strings and get you into Lord Alexander’s army. All I ask is that you discard all the things you learned outside this castle. If you can not then remain out here.”

“Scythe,” Sozin argued. “We can make an exception, we’re the only two members left in our family. We change the rules. Let the boy have his stuff.”

Sai stood there staring at his ninja sword. The rain continued to fall on him as his eyes lingered on the blade. “But, this is all I have. It’s all I know if you take that away then.” Scythe stood there waiting for Sai to make his decision. He refused to back down on this. His reputation was at stake if Sai didn’t discard his ninja training. It’d damage their families reputation. The training had to go. “Okay, I’ll do it.” He set the bag down and left all of his ninja gear outside in the rain…

“After taking him in,” Scythe continued. “I trained him with my brother Sozin’s help. Despite my best efforts I could not get him to forsake the art of the Ninja. It was a constant struggle and Sai refused to listen and insisted on shaming the family. So, I did what I had to in order to protect my family's reputation.” He closed his eyes seeing his son’s tent in flames. All of his gear, his ninja tools reduced to ash. “In doing so, I lost my son. It was the last time we fought and spoke to each other. I didn’t see him again until we were on the battlefield. It was there, I saw my son for the person he truly was. I saw his strength, his bravery, something I had thought was a shame to our family. Brought us incredible honor. He died a hero.” He added. “It’s a shame my son had to die for me to see it.”

“That must have been hard,” Fate placed his hand on Scythe’s back. Selene wiped a tear from her eye. Ziek sat there in silence, followed by Brandon and Amy. Jayden’s eyes remained on the campfire. Scythe wasn’t upset that Jayden broke Sai’s sword. What bothered him was out of all the swords in his room that could have been chosen. He wondered why Jayden chose that sword. Maybe it’s because. Out of all the students Scythe has. Jayden’s fighting style resembles Sai the most. Strange both Angel and Selene lead Jayden to him to be trained. But neither of them could have caught the resemblance in their fighting styles. This is something only Scythe would be able to determine. Unless, one of them did notice it. He glanced over at Selene. She crossed her arms and smirked at Scythe.

“Perhaps, I’m not giving Selene enough credit. Sozin, you’ve trained her well.” Scythe rose his feet and went for a walk with Selene. “You knew I’d be drawn to Jayden. I was made to believe it was Angel’s idea to have me train Jayden. But it wasn’t just his idea was it?”

“Everyone deserves a second chance, Scythe.” Selene turned to face him. “You failed when it came to raising your son. But, I can see that you learned from that failure and because of it. You became a great teacher. I have no doubt that when it comes to Jayden’s training. There’s no one better suited to train him than you. Consider it, a second chance at being a father. I have reason to believe that this time will be different.”

“So, you do care about us.” Scythe smiled.

“Yes I care, why else would I strive to be commander?” Selene stated as fact. “Though, if you tell anyone about this. I will have no choice but to kill you. So as far as you’re concerned. I was doing my job and nothing else. In fact, you training Jayden was Angel’s idea, got it?” She poked Scythe’s chest.

“As you wish,” Scythe smirked. “Perhaps, you are sweet after all.”

“Scythe,” Selene pulled out a vial of her blood and showed it to him. “Don’t make me kill you.” She put the vial away and returned to the campsite to be with the others. Granted, there was one face among them he did not see.

Scythe heard a tree falling from a distance. He followed the noise to find Blaire practicing with her sword. But the sword she was using was. The last time he saw her using that sword was the day his son died. The fact she’d choose to use it now after all this time. Is it possible Angel got through to her?

“I see you're using the sword my son made for you.” Scythe drew his sword. “It has been awhile since we’ve spared as master and student. In fact, I remember our last training session was on the anniversary of my son’s death.” Blaire ignored him and kept slashing trees with her sword. “You skipped out in the middle of training and told me you could longer accept me as your master.” Scythe realized Blaire had no intention of acknowledging him. He sheathed his sword and proceeded to talk. “We’ve never talked about it, then one day,” He leaned against a tree. “You showed up and asked me to complete your training so I did. After that, you became distant, it was clear you were using me that day. But, I didn’t care because I was concerned about your well being. You’ve changed Blaire and not in a good way.”

“So what if I’ve changed.” Blaire sheathed her sword. “War changes people. I’m not the kind, peace seeking Princess I used to be. I’m proud of that fact, I’m not blind like my father. I see Lord Grimm for what he is. To whereas my father would let him go. I’d cut his damn head off. I don’t care about peace, I care about revenge. Sai’s dead and when Lord Grimm decided to take his life. He made his worst enemy, me.” She swung her sword, cutting down another tree.

“So anger,” Scythe closed his eyes. “That will be your response to everything. Blaire, there is more to you than that. I understand Sai’s death was hard on you. It was hard on me too. As his father, I want nothing more than to kill Alejandro for what he did. But I’m directing my vengeance to the one responsible while you’re targeting werewolves as a whole. You’re blaming them all for Sai’s death and that’s not how a Princess should behave.”

“Like you’d know how a Princess should behave.” Blaire countered. “Sorry I’m not the perfect fucking doll for you to play with. Sorry, I don’t wear pretty dresses, sorry I don’t put on a fake smile, and pretend like my life is perfect. I’m pissed and I have every right to be. So don’t tell how a princess should behave. Besides, I shouldn’t be getting advice from someone who failed as a father.”

“If Sai were alive, do you think this is Blaire he’d want as his girlfriend?” Scythe asked. Blaire’s feet stopped and she gripped the blade tightly. In an instant the entire sword lit up in flames.

“Don’t ever, tell me what Sai would or not like?” Blaire’s eyes burned with rage. “Unlike you he didn’t have to die for me to appreciate his existence. You were a sorry excuse for a father and maybe if you weren’t so caught up in making your son just like you. He’d still be alive.” She gathered flames on her sword and fired them at Scythe. He casually spun his blade catching the flame and throwing it aside.

“I never claimed to be a good father,” Scythe replied. “To be perfectly honest I never intended to be one.” He swung his sword. The blade slashed through the earth dragon Blaire created. “Sai was a mistake.” He slashed through another one of Blaire’s elemental dragons, dispelling it with ease.

“You dare call your child a mistake,” Blaire’s blade radiated with electricity. “Sai was the best thing to ever happen to me.” She fired twelve lighting dragons at Scythe. He spun his blade catching the dragons in a whirlwind and dispelling them by flicking his blade. “He was what was best for this castle, he was what was best for all of us.” She charged at Scythe locking swords with him. “How can you stand there and call someone who meant so much a mistake?”

“It’s the truth,” Scythe swung his sword, forcing Blaire back with one hand. He spun and kicked her back. “I was drunk and did something I normally wouldn’t do. If it wasn’t for that night Sai would never have been born. Nothing about his birth was intentional which makes it and him a mistake.” Blaire swung her blade at him, he dodged it. “It should be obvious to you that I prefer to sleep with men. That I only seek relationships with men. Never once have I dated a woman. Do you know why that is?” He blocked as Blaire tried to attack him. “It’s so I’d never have to deal with the burden of being a father. It just so happens that fate had other plans for me.” He pushed Blaire back and went to cut her. She coated her arm in diamond blocking his attack and countering with an attack of her own. He jumped back only to see dragons fire off her sword. He caught the dragons and fired them back at her. As a result, Blaire was hit by her own attack. She rolled across the ground being covered in lightning.

“Still,” Blaire forced herself to stand. “For you to call him a mistake. After everything he sacrificed just so his father would finally see him for he truly was. He died trying to make you proud and even after that, He’s still a mistake to you.” She charged at Scythe.

“Yes,” Scythe blocked her attack. “Because that is what he was. I could never lie and say that I wanted him. Raising Sai was never my intention. But I did so because he had no one else to turn to.” He pushed Blaire back. “I was his only option.” Scythe began cutting at her with his sword. Blaire blocked his attacks, being pushed off balance. “I tried my best to raise him. Due to the fact that I never wanted him, I was unable to appreciate him or the skills he had to offer.” He kicked Blaire knocking her to the ground. “I was naive, foolish, and more than that. I was a failure as a father and I own up to that failure. That failure is what makes me a great teacher for Fate, for Jayden, and for you.” He held his blade to her throat.

“I chose to learn from my son’s death, Selene chose to learn from it, but you, you cling to the past and refuse to move forward. You’re so angry that my son is dead that you feel the need to harm those around you. You’re like a poison. Wanting to inflict everyone with your suffering. So tell me.” Scythe kept the sharp point of his sword at Blaire’s throat. “How long does everyone need to pay for Sai’s death? When will you grow up and stop acting like a child throwing a temper tantrum? Lord Alexander has tried everything and yet you still spit in his face.”

“My father hasn’t done nearly enough.” Blaire moved Scythe’s sword from her throat. “Call me a child, say whatever you want. It doesn’t change anything.” She slashed down a tree. “I hate my father and I hate you.” She stormed off in anger.

“Hate me if you’d like,” Scythe sheathed his sword. “I’d rather you use your anger on me than risk you directing that anger toward Lord Grimm.” Blaire stopped in place. He knew his student all too well. The second they reached the throne room. Blaire would attack Lord Grimm with everything she has hoping to kill him. This tactic would fail and end up with her dying. Lord Alexander’s daughter or not. If she attacked the werewolf king, he wouldn’t hesitate to kill her.

“How’d you know I was planning to-,”

“Blaire, your mark is the sword.” Scythe explained. “The reason I chose the sword for you is because you like to attack without thinking. You always plan to attack hoping to overwhelm your foes. That is your one and only strategy. Which is why the sword best represents you. You never think things through. You act, that is your biggest flaw. So for once, let’s think about this.” She turned to face him. “Let’s say, you attack Lord Grimm there’s a ninety percent chance. He’ll survive it and there’s an even greater chance if Nikan is there. The probability of him being there is roughly ninety eight percent. Now let’s not forget Sozin’s sacrifice and what his death taught us about the werewolf Nikan.”

“Nikan can use spirit to heal and potentially revive the dead. As long as Lord Grimm’s heart has a slight beat to it. Nikan can heal him from any damage. Even if his heart stops, I wouldn’t put it past Nikan to sacrifice his own life to revive Lord Grimm. So, no matter how this plays out, if you attack Lord Grimm. He won’t die, you will.” Scythe pointed out. “So, I suggest, you refrain from attacking Lord Grimm. Hate me or not, I don’t wish to see one of my students die. So, I’m asking you to reconsider.”

“Fine,” Blaire replied in a defeated tone. “I won’t attack Lord Grimm. Though there is something I need to ask you. This Hybrid matter, do you think my husband Angel is involved? It’s just Liley seems to think he’s cheating on me.” Scythe bit his lip at the mention of Liley’s name. He could not bring himself to trust that woman. There’s no denying Liley’s influence on Blaire. It’s what led her down this toxic path. But he had no proof, without proof, nor, Blaire or Lord Alexander would believe him. But, Liley is directing Blaire’s attention toward Angel. So, that’s her plan, she’s trying to get Blaire to kill Angel for her. Clever tact, but he’s intellegent enough to see through it. It’s a shame, Blaire isn’t.

“I mean,” Blaire leaned against a tree. “He did disappear the night of the Lunar Ball. So that puts him on the list. It’s just the idea of Angel cheating on me with a werewolf of all things. Surely, he’s not that stupid. You’re the tactician and my father trusts your judgment so what do you think? Do you think Angel would do something like this?” As much as Scythe hated lying, he hated the idea of Liley getting what she wants more. Besides, he needed Angel to fix Blaire and at this point. He’s the only one who can.

“Angel is afraid of you,” Scythe answered. “The chances of him cheating on you are quite low. After all, he knows you’ll kill him. So to suggest that he’d cheat on you with a werewolf given his status as our Prince. Is even more unlikely.” He crossed his arms. “There’s also the fact your father has taken a liking to him. I doubt he’d sacrifice the relationship he has with you and your father for a werewolf.”

“That’s true,” Blaire smirked. “There’s no way Angel’s behind this. He wouldn’t be that stupid.” She walked away.

Scythe entered his tent. Once he arrived he was welcomed by Fate’s lips. The tent closed behind them as their lips connected again and again. “I talked to Blaire, I tried my best to help her. But, in the end, she chooses to stay lost in the past. She even said that hates me.” He closed his eyes to fight the tears before they fell. “So not only must I fail as a father, I am a failure as a master too.”

“Hey, Hey, don’t cry,” Fate ran his fingers through Scythe’s hair. “There’s no point in crying about it. It’s not going to fix it. Blaire’s a bitch, I know this, you know this and if she makes you cry. I’m your shield and if someone hurts someone a shield protects. What does that shield do?” He waited for Scythe’s response.

“It becomes a sword.” He answered.

“That’s right,” Fate smiled. “So if you start crying, I’ll have to start kicking some ass. So do you want me to kick Blaire’s ass because you know damn well. I’ll do it. I’ll beat that ass so hard. She’ll start calling me her father. Because if Lord Alexander isn’t going to whoop that ass. I’ll do it,” He pointed at himself. “I’ll whoop her until she starts being nice to everyone. I will beat the bitch out of her. She will greet us with a smile, she will ask us about our day, she will say please and thank you and when we do what she says. She will leave a gift basket at our motherfucking door. So if you start crying, that’s what will happen.” Scythe chuckled. “I’m serious Scythe, I’ll beat the fuck out of Blaire. Lord Alexander can kill me. I don’t care. I will take that bitch with me. I’m not scared, I will do it. So, are you crying, Scythe?”

“I’m not crying,” Scythe wiped his eyes. “It’s kind of hard to cry when you’re making me laugh.”

“Good,” Fate pulled him close. “That’s what I was going for. Now, let’s get you out of those clothes.” He took off Scythe’s shirt as he removed his pants. The two of them stood there, their upper bodies exposed wearing nothing but their boxers. Fate leaned in to kiss him but Scythe placed his index finger over Fate’s lips to stop him.

“Before you get carried away,” Scythe smiled. “I need to know how your conversation with Angel went.” He removed his finger from Fate’s lips. “Were you able to convince him to take the throne?” Fate let out a sigh and climbed into their bed which was nothing more than a pallet on the floor. He patted the spot next to him and Scythe joined him. Fate grabbed the blankets and threw them over them. Fate rested on his back allowing Scythe to lay his head on his bare chest.

“Angel’s in love with this werewolf girl and I know better than anyone. The risks one would take for those they love. So in the end,” Fate let out a defeated sigh. “He still chooses her. He doesn’t care if it’s a death wish. He doesn’t care how it affects us. He just wants to be happy and I can’t really blame him for it. Angel didn’t come to us so that he could fix all of our problems. He came here as a prisoner, enslaved by Blaire. If I were him,” He closed his eyes. “I wouldn’t want to be king either. I mean, the exact same kingdom that allowed Blaire to torture him and take away everything he cared about. Is the exact same kingdom asking for his help. Of course, he’d turn his back on us. We turned our back on him first. We deserve this, whether we like it or not. We put this on ourselves. It’s not Angel’s job to fix it.”

“I suppose you’re right,” Scythe agreed. “So, that’s it then, there’s nothing anyone can do to stop it. The castle I dedicated my life to building is going to be left to ruins. Blaire is unfit to rule and if her father dies. She’s the only one who can take the throne. The only person who could’ve prevented this has no desire to. It’s over, I’m out of ideas.”

“I have an idea,” Fate rolled over on top of Scythe. “Let’s forget about the castle,” He offered. “Haven’t we given enough to Lord Alexander’s cause? It’s clear to me that if Blaire does take the throne. The castle will be left to ruin. So, why are we forcing ourselves to stay and watch as Blaire ruins everything we both fought to build. It’s cruel, so, why don’t we just leave.” He traced Scythe’s lips with his finger. “Think about it.”

“We could just pack our shit and go.” Fate ran his finger down Scythe’s neck. “Just theThe two of us. We’ll leave this war behind us and for once in our life do something that makes us happy.” He brought his lips close to Scythe’s. “We could travel the world, we could go on so many dates. If you agree to this, I swear, I’ll do everything in my power to make every hour,” He kissed Scythe’s lips. “of everyday,” He kissed him once more. “Be full of so much joy. I’ll even get that engagement ring and we’ll get married right now. All you have to do is say yes. We could be happy, Scythe,” He caressed Scythe’s cheek. “Don’t we deserve that? Please I’m begging you to say yes, do this with me and I swear-,”

“I can’t,” Scythe replied. “I dedicated too much of my life to the castle to just abandon it when it needs me most. My brother Sozin died defending this castle, my son also died for that same reason. I can’t ignore their sacrifice. They gave their lives believing in the future of the castle and the entire kingdom. I will do the same, I made an oath to protect Lord Alexander and to help him build a better kingdom. So, I will see it through till the end.”

“Always Lord Alexander,” Fate rose to his feet. “You always put him before me, before us, don’t you get it? Every time you do it, it hurts me. It hurts us and our relationship. If it wasn’t for you putting Lord Alexander first. We would already be married and I wouldn’t have needed to date someone else to feel complete. Because I’m so sick of placing second. I get that he’s your friend, I get that he’s our king, but to put him over me. Again and again, without so much as worrying about what that does to us. It’s like, you don’t care.” He shook his head. “I guess it’s because you don’t. As long Lord Alexander gets what he wants. Fuck everybody else right, that’s how you think isn’t it?” He let out a sigh.

“That’s not how I think,” Scythe argued.

“Really, it’s not,” Fate crossed his arms. “Explain why your son died. Was it because you wanted him to be like you? Or, is it because you wanted your son to impress Lord Alexander. I know you Scythe, you’re my boyfriend, I fucking know you. Inside and out, you’re always about pleasing Lord Alexander.” He added. “You fought Selene just so you could show how strong you’ve become to Lord Alexander. You didn’t care about the commander position, You just wanted to show off. Admit it. It’s always about him, everything you do is to please him. So much so, you’d sacrifice our relationship for it. Just say it, you’d break up with me if Lord Alexander asked you to. You’d rather lose me than risk disappointing Lord Alexander.”

“Fate, he’d never try to control my relationships.” Scythe countered. “Lord Alexander respects my decision to date you. Besides, it seems dating you has made it easier for me to protect you given your relationship to his father. He would want you to be safe. As would Soren, I’m sure, so it’s beneficial to both him and you that we date.”

“Great so,” Fate slipped on his pants. “Now we’re together because it benefits Lord Alexander. So, even that, our relationship,” He grabbed his shirt off the floor. “Is for him. Do you even love me at all?” Scythe went to answer but Fate held up a finger. “Know what, I dated you for years, I put up with you putting Lord Alexander first for years, and for you to sit there and tell me. That our relationship exists to benefit the same person you put before me.” He took a deep breath. “I love you Scythe, I would do anything to protect you. I’d die if it meant keeping you safe. But I doubt you’d do the same for me. So,” He slipped on his shirt. “I’m going to leave and let you think about what you said to me. Because the next words out of your mouth might be the end of our relationship.” Fate stopped himself before leaving.

“Another thing,” Fate let out a deep sigh. “Lord Alexander doesn’t need to control your relationships when he controls you. Goodnight, Scythe.” Scythe let out a deep sigh as Fate left their tent.

“Not only must I fail as a father,” Scythe shut his eyes. He saw an image of a giant wolf print and his son’s sword lying beside it. “A brother,” He saw an image of his brother’s body laying there beneath Lord Grimm’s feet as a corpse. “A mentor,” Scythe’s eyes began to build tears. He saw an image of Blaire walking through the woods. “But I must also fail as a lover.” An image of Fate setting up his own tent for the night entered Scythe’s mind. “How long must I keep failing before I finally get it right?” A teardrop fled Scythe’s eye and hit the floor.