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(Back at the Calieo stronghold)

During the course of the night things were rather restless for everyone. This battle might decide the very fate of the war and a lot folks could feel it. The rest of the people had mixed feelings about this whole war. Granted they wanted to see an end, hopefully with as little violence as possible. The only question left was how to end this war swiftly without the loss of life. That was never an easy task but, they made their best efforts to try.

"There you are major here's the morning reports for you, sir. Though you're probably not going to like it." Janis said, handing them over. "Thank, you ensign it looks like they'll be here by tomorrow at sunrise. Gather the platoon we're going meet them halfway. This will end tonight no matter the cost." I stated, as Janis left. "My love promise me you'll come home in one piece." Ephrael replied kissing me. "Of course as long as you're waiting for me no one will keep us apart." I smiled hugging her. I put on my armor then met up with my troops at the gates.

"Everything is ready for departure major when do we leave?" Draco asked. "As soon as the council and General Oliver, is informed we'll depart." I replied. The council members arrived, wished us good luck then we left Calieo. We walked straight through the night we could barely see the enemy coming towards us. Arrived at the Sergal River bridge I knew the enemy would be coming this way. Since they needed to cross here in order to reach our strong hold. I ordered my troops to bunk down for the night and take shifts to keep an eye out.

Dawn was fast approaching we walked out to the center of the bridge and got our equipment set up. Once we got everything we brought ready I could hear the enemy coming. It didn't take long for them to come into sight. "Don't move let them come within a few yards of our location but, do nothing. Until I state other wise am I understood." I ordered. My troops nodded in agreement as they readied themselves. As they marched onto the bridge only a small scout troop venture close to us.

I stepped forward to acknowledge them along with gauge their numbers. From what I saw it appeared there were 2,500 men and my rival was at the front. "Commander Helios, I know you're there, come forth I wish to talk battle terms." I announced walking into the open. "Of course, Captain Sai." He replied stepping off his horse. "I've been promoted commander since our last fight. So are you man enough to meet me halfway or not?" I stated. He didn't say anything he walked towards the center of the bridge.

Once we stood face to face we acknowledged each other as opposing leaders would. "What battle terms did you have in mind major? I'm listening but, everything ends here." He smiled. "I feel the same way my foe my terms are rather simple. Instead of losing many men on both sides why don't we settle this war with a duel?" I replied. "Who do you have in mind for this duel?" He wondered. "Just the two of us, swords, shields, no armor and last man standing. Unless you're afraid to face me on an even playing field." I remarked.

"That's suits me just fine if you don't mind my king is present. I would like him to discuss this matter with you." He wondered. "Of course I will be representing my people so you may do as you like. Please, I would like to end this before the sunsets I'm sure you agree." I replied. He nodded as he walked back toward the battalion. My second in command approached me I knew she didn't approve of this. I felt it was the only way this war would end. something told me this would end in a similar fashion anyhow. So why not end this war come to an end with something civil and honorable.

"Sir, is that wise decision he might be planning something deceitful." Janis pointed out. "Do you honestly think he'd do something like that. We fought like this to many times over the years. He's been waiting for a chance like this just as much as I have. If this will end things he won't pass this up, I know he won't. Have Draco ride back to, Calieo to inform the council on what will be happening. Make sure he tells them the war will end with a single duel between two great warriors. The winner will control the fate of the world now get moving." I ordered.

She rushed towards the platoon to give, Draco my orders. I heard her tell him my orders he grabbed his horse and rode off. Shortly after, Janis rejoined me on the bridge to await their response. "Is there anything else you want me to do before this commences sir?" She wondered. "Yes, if I should die I want you to take care of, Ephrael for me. Tell her I had to do this to put an end to the war." I informed. She agreed to my request it wasn't going to be an easy one but, it was my final order.

An hour went by before Commander Helios returned with his king walking beside him. "I have come to tell you personally that I accept your terms." He stated. "One more thing before we begin I'm wondering about something, your majesty. Now on the off chance this duel ends a draw I'd like for you to call a truce with Calieo. Since I think this war has gone on for far too long. I'm sure he'll agree with me on this small matter." I said, pointing at, Helios. "Then it's agreed then each of your second in commands remove their armor." The king ordered.

When the final piece armor was removed we walked towards the true center of the bridge. The tension in the air was thick enough to be cut by a knife. This was it, the final battle we knew that it all came down to which one would be victorious. He rushed me after a few moments circling each other. Our swords collided then we began exchanging heavy blows that could be heard for kilometers. We didn't give each other anytime to get an edge over the other. The duel had now become an all out war between two highly skilled warriors.

Both sides watched intently this was a fight that would be retold for centuries to come. Two of the most skilled swords the world had to offer were fighting for what they believed in. They knew this was their final battle they were making every attack count. The duel went on for hours neither warrior given an inch to the other. We both knew it was a matter of time before one of us either made a mistake.

"That's it this ends here, Helios." I said throwing my shield away. "You're right let's finish this." He replied doing the same. We didn't hesitate we went for the victory, no matter the cost. The sound of two swords hitting then piercing flesh filled the air. Helios fell to the ground motionless, as I coughed up blood. It was clear that I won but, the wound I received was fatal. I turned to my troops smiled as I fell to my knees. "Thank you for everything you have done for me, my friends this war is finally over. King Toroth, I hope you'll keep your word for you are bound by holy law." I said. "I shall use my power to restore this world, die with honor warrior of, Calieo." He replied.

As we laid there our troops brought us and we were regarded as heroes. The war had finally come to an end by the actions of two honorable warriors. We left that world knowing that our final wishes would be carried out. Once I felt the world would be at peace I made my journey to the heavens. I suddenly felt my soul being pulled elsewhere before I could find out what, everything went black.

(In the dark lord's throne room.)

"Father he's here but, he's not waking up." Nepheri informed running to his side. "Relax, my dear having him brought here was easy for me. Sadly it was rather hard for him to make the crossover. He'll be fine once he's rested just be patient daughter, okay. Remember his body was brought to so it took a lot out of him." He stated comfortingly. "I'll wait by his bedside then if anything happens I can be there to aid him" She smiled leaving the room. He was amazed at her concern for his safety that told him he'd be calling him son-in-law.

"Hello, brother what've been up to recently?" A leopard asked. "Ah! I was waiting for you to visit, Aleu. What brings you here to my humble kingdom?" He smiled. "There's talk of a good soul who never made it to the heavens. he ended up here was permitted to keep his body. Any ideas Guile don't even think about conning me." She said. "Alright you got me but, come with me I want to show you something." He replied, escorting her to where I was residing. Once they arrived she couldn't believe what she saw Nepheri, was attending to me.

"I see this was done for her how sweet of you. Now what do I tell the others when I see them?" She wondered. "They already know what I did they had no problems with it. Do you honestly want to take away her happiness because of a simple rule?" He said. Aleu didn't have it in her to do such a cruel thing to, Nepheri. So she smiled and left without doing anything. Nepheri saw Aleu leave out of the corner of her eye, that got her wondering. So she got up and walked over to her father to ask him, why she was here.

"Why was, Aleu here father? Please tell me she wasn't here to take him away?" Nepheri wondered. "No, daughter she wanted to see if he was alright. When she saw you attending to him she left. I'll leave you two alone call me if anything happens." He replied walking away. "Yes, father I will." She smiled returning to my bedside. The whole time I was out things went from good to real bad quickly. During that time Nepheri, decided to get me something to eat for when I awoke.

Shortly after she left I began slowly waking up. "Uuugh!, My head it feels like I got run over by a stampede of horses." I said sitting up. I looked around to check my surroundings nothing looked familiar. I got up and looked for something to defend myself, I was fortunate to find a knife. When got everything I could use I made my way towards the exit. I had a weird feeling that I was behind enemy lines. I knew escape was my only option.

So I went to work looking for an exit before anyone came looking for me. At every corner I came to I used the reflection on the knife. To see if any one or anything was coming in my direction. Once the coast was clear I moved forward silently making sure nobody noticed me. I arrived at what looked like a throne room the good thing it was empty. Until I walked behind the throne itself then I heard people coming.

So I quickly hid myself and listened in on their conversation "Father he's gone I went to check on him and he vanished. Do you have any idea where he is?" Nepheri asked. "Not sure daughter I designed the palace to encompass this room. So I'm sure he'll wander his way through here soon enough. Just in case I'll have some of the servants keep an eye out. In the meantime we'll go look for him. You go in that direction while I'll go this way meet back in an hour." Guile informed as they left.

Once they had left I darted for the nearest exit from what they said it wasn't far. As I passed each corridor the exit was nowhere to be found. I was starting to think maybe they knew something I didn't. So I waited for a servant to walk by. This way I'd kindly convince them to help me escape this place. Knowing to wait for the right moment is a handy skill in any situation. When she walked by me I walked quietly behind her then I reached out. Once I grabbed a hold of her I placed my knife right into her back.

"Listen to me I have no intention of harming you. All I want is for you to show me the way out. If you have any thought on screaming for help I won't hesitate on silencing you." I instructed gently pressing the knife into her back. "How can you kill someone who has no life to take?" Nepheri replied glancing at me. "Trust me I'll find a way don't you worry about it. Now if you could be so kind as to show me the exit." I said. "Is there anyway for us to talk about this like adults?" She wondered. "I think not I'm in no mood for mind games." I stated.

"Fine, then I have no choice but, to defend myself." She pointed out. "I don't think you're in a position do to anything." I replied. That's where I was wrong she disappeared in a puff of smoke. So I slashed at the smoke until cleared quickly looking around. She reappeared behind me which I only perceived to upset me. "I'm afraid it won't work twice lady, now will you just help me. That's all I've asked of you I don't belong here please help me." I requested. "You had best sit down my friend she is trying to help you." Guile stated. "Father, don't harm him he didn't do anything wrong." She pleaded.

"I wasn't going too all I did was take his weapon away from him." He replied holding it. He should have known better I grabbed the arm that the knife was in. Flung him to the ground once he rolled over I placed the knife at his throat. He knew I was only defending myself so he didn't struggle or resist. "If you want out take me instead I built this place. So I know the way if you still want to leave. Let my daughter go then I'll take you where you want to go." He stated.

"As you wish I wasn't going to harm her anyway. So please forgive me for what I had to do." I said. I stepped back to allow him to get to his feet. He proceeded to escort me towards the exit. Once we walked outside I couldn't believe what I saw, it's just too horrible for words. To put as simply as I could nothing but, death filled the air. "What in heaven's name have I been brought?" I stated. "The world where dark souls come to live out the rest of eternity. Now won't you come back inside there is much to discuss my friend." He informed.

I surrendered my knife to him since it was for the best. I was in no position to fight him or anything in this unholy place. "I get the feeling you control this place?" I asked turning to face him. He smiled then ushered me towards the throne room. Where she was eagerly waiting for us to arrive. "Bring our guest a seat along with something good to eat. I'm sure you're hungry. Please sit this way I can tell you why you're here." He smiled. The nearest servant did as he asked first by bring me a chair then leaving to fulfill his other request.

After the servant left, it didn't take him long to return with what he was sent for. His daughter sat next to me which didn't feel right to me. Naturally I knew better then to be rude towards a lady. Considering I've done enough to get punished for what I did. While I enjoyed the meal given to me she continued looking at me. "Is something on your mind miss? You're kind of being rude staring at me like that." I said politely.

"Sorry, about that it's been awhile since we've had such an interesting guest." She replied. "That doesn't excuse your manners, daughter. Why don't I tell you why you're here." He said as I looked at him. "Sure, go right ahead, sir." I replied. So he began telling the events that happened since the day I died. I couldn't believe my actions caused me to end up here. It was no surprise I did kill others to defend my ideals. Tears began rolling down my face as he continued talking in a neutral tone.

Nepheri comforted me, I gently pushed her aside it was best that she didn't. "You have no right to comfort a murderer like me. I'm ready for my punishment, Lord Guile. Don't hold back I'm prepared for the worst you have to offer." I stated standing up. "You misunderstand Sai, you were brought here for a second chance at happiness. You have a very clean track record, I have no punishment for you." He pointed out.

"I've killed too many men to be given such a reward. Now I ask you once more give me the worst this place." I demanded. "The warrior's spirit flows too strongly in his veins maybe you should give him something." Aleu interrupted as my head whipped around to see her standing there. "Fine, then your punishment will be to watch over my headstrong daughter. Watching over her won't be an easy task even for someone like you." He informed turning my attention back on him.

"Very well then I except you terms. Now could you explain something to me, who's this." I replied pointing the woman behind me. "I was responsible for bringing you here. Basically long story short my friend I'm the grim reaper." She said. "You could've fooled me. You certainly don't look like the bringer of death." I said taking another look at her. Before I knew it I was suddenly staring down her weapon of choice. After making her point there was no question in my mind afterwards.

"Any other problems that you want to address." She stated. I shook my head no fearing what she'd do if I said anything else. "I think you should be going, Aleu I can handle things from here." Guile smiled. She waved goodbye then in flash of light she was gone. Nepheri found a golden chance to get real close to me. She quickly placed her muzzle under my chin then hugged me I wanted to push her away. The way she was acting reminded of so much of, Ephrael. She did the same thing when something was bothering me so I allowed it.

"Lord Guile, could you tell me what happen to my fiancé, after I died?" I wondered. "Of course, she settled down with, Ensign Janis after a long mourning. They lived together until they both died of natural causes forty years later. She was the only person there to comfort her when you died. Many wonderful things happened after that day though. Your final fight won't be forgotten be proud knowing you ended the war. Peace came quickly after your death it lasted for 400 years. As things tend to happen war once again broke out. This cycle has been repeating for the last 15,000 years." He informed.

"Is there any chance I could see her again?" I asked. "I'm sorry you can't travel from here to the heavens it would cause problems. Besides I think she knows that you are here. Why don't you go with my daughter she'll be able to find you some proper clothes. I'll talk to you later I've got other things to attend to." He said. So I got up from my seat and followed a few paces behind her. "Do you mind if I ask you a couple of strange questions." I said. "I don't mind one bit.' She smiled looking back. "How can you walk upright? Why was I really brought here?" I asked.

"The rules of the living don't apply here, besides I was born this way. Perhaps, an example you know that some animals are figures of power in the living world. So my ancestors took on those very qualities for themselves. They didn't know that the change was a permanent deal. So it was tough but, the benefits out weighed the risks. When the people fresh from the living saw them they showed respect." She informed. "Okay, that explains one thing, what about my other question." I replied.

"I hate to tell you so soon but, I've fallen for you. Please, don't think that I wanted to keep you from her she's special. Since I came of age I've been looking for someone special but, nobody was worthy. So I looked for someone in the living world that's when I found you. My father isn't getting any younger soon I'll be succeeding him. The funny thing is I really don't want to take his job." She said lowering her ears. "Well, have you talked to him about this? I'm sure he could find someone until you feel ready to take over the throne." I said. "No, I haven't I don't know how he'll react, it might break his heart." She replied.

"Parents can be more understanding if given the chance. I'm sure he won't be upset with you, he'd be proud. That you've chosen your own path to follow." I informed. "You really believe that I'm not so sure he kind of hard to approach." She said wagging her tail. "Look, try it this way look at this problem from the outside. Some times you'll find an answer that you didn't think of." I stated. "I'll try it's kind of hard to see things from a new perspective. Especially when your dad oversees everything that goes on here." She replied.

We continued talking I was amazed how intelligent she was. I think what she wanted most was for someone to talk openly with. I was more than happy to listen and offer advice. She couldn't believe that I was showing her so many ways to look at a problem. It felt good to talk civil with someone again I had almost forgotten the feeling. As we walked towards the library I couldn't help but, noticed how pretty she looked. Little did I know she was doing the same.

Once we got there she brought me to the rear of the library. This way we could be left alone by wandering eyes. "So tell me what it is like living, please don't anything out." She smiled sitting down. I got a little nervous seeing those fangs. That's when I made a strong mental note never to piss her off. On the off chance she'd use those to fix my butt when I stepped out of line.

"What I don't understand surely you've lived amongst the living at least once." I said. "Like I said before how can you take the life of someone who has never had it?" She replied. It finally dawned on me what she meant by. "Well, in my short life it's nothing worth retelling. I got drafted into the army when I was fifteen been there until I died. So the only good thing I got to have was my fiancé, you know the rest." I stated. She looked away then she hugged me this time around I didn't mind.

We spent the whole day talking while exploring the palace. It was nice of her to show me the way around. As night came I was getting tired so I decided to turn in for the night. She said goodnight then walked into her room, as I did the same. Once morning came I awoke to find a surprise laying next me. So pulled back the blanket and much to my surprise Nepheri was laying beside me. She must have slipped in during the night while I was sleeping.

"When did you float in here, Nepheri?" I asked as she stirred. "Three hours ago you were out cold." She smiled yawning slightly. "Do you mind leaving so I can get dressed?" I wondered moving to the edge of the bed. "Why it's nothing I haven't felt already." She stated coyfully. "Please, tell me you didn't?" I stated looking back at her. "No, I want you to be willing for that, Sai. Though I was curious too see what you had to offer." She said, sitting up. As the blanket shifted, I couldn't believe my eyes she was completely naked. Just seeing her curves made me blush but, it made her laugh. She grabbed the blanket to cover her modesty then laid me down.

I slowly drifted of to sleep then she tried to snuggle against my side. Apparently she wanted me to hold her while we slept a little longer. When I woke she wasn't then a guilty feeling washed over me. The only thing going through my head was what her father might do when he finds out. I don't think he'll be to thrilled with the news. I would hate to see that man pissed off at anyone. Even more so when it concerns the well being of his daughter.

So I went directly towards the throne room to speak with him. I felt it was best to inform him on what transpired. This might not be the smartest thing I've ever done but, it was the right thing. Once I got there I waited for him to finish with his current business. As I walked over to him he disappeared in a flash of smoke. So I waited for while figuring he be back shortly. It didn't look like he was coming back so I politely summon him back.

"Lord Guile, are you busy I would like an audience." I said. "Of course, Sai what's on your mind?" He replied, appearing in front of me. "I don't think I'm ever going to get used to that." I said. "What's wrong you seem like something happened?" He asked. So I told him what happened early this morning. When I finished he didn't seem all that surprised by it. "Relax, she beat you to it this morning. Besides I sorta knew she was up to something last night." He smiled. "So what do you intend to do about it sir?" I replied.

"Nothing she was simply curious I'm sure you felt the same. If I was in your shoes I would've done the same thing. She's in the courtyard if you want to confront her about it. If not I'm sure you like to burn off a little energy anyhow." He smiled, as he walked away. I headed towards the main courtyard it was huge. You could've hidden a whole town here and nobody would know. "It took you long enough I'm sure you're familiar with this." She replied, tossing me a sword.

When I caught it a wave of memories came over me in a flash. I dropped to my knees holding the weapon. This very sword was given to me the day before I passed on. The memories of my love washed in as a flood of tears rolled down my face. Nepheri, wanted to comfort me but, she knew a warrior like me needed this. Nothing could replace the feelings I was going through at the time. As I looked up i saw the armor I was also given by the council.

"Nepheri, why is armor and the sword here in this place?" I asked. "You're wearing it, Sai that armor and sword came with you." She replied. I stood up and began to put the armor on slowly. After placing the sword on the armor waist belt. When I look for the helmet I saw, Nepheri holding it in her hands. The helmet was different the last time I saw it wasn't Jackal's head. "Place it on my head to make this armor complete, Nepheri." I requested, as I knelt before her. She did as I asked once she stepped back I stood up to examine myself.

"The helmet was modified so it wouldn't limit your field of vision." She informed. "Well, that works so shall we finish the rest of our tour." I replied. "Of course follow me my dear the rest of the tour won't take long." She smiled. While we walked around the palace grounds I got to know her little more. It was still amazing that we had quite a bit in common. Granted our first meeting wasn't a pleasant but, easily overlooked.

The palace was designed with beauty and fear in mind the craftsmanship showed. Nepheri was a gentle goddess she didn't enjoy seeing souls tortured for their evil deeds. I told her every crime has a punishment whether it be given in life or death. Everyone must repent for the choices they make during their life. She didn't like the idea that I was so hard on myself. Though I tried my best to make her see it from my point of view.

Dinner time rolled around so we went to the dining hall for a nice warm meal. She told me I get out of my armor before joining her and her father. So I walked to my room, a small pile of pants, shirts and under garments were left on the bed. Once I found something proper to wear I made my way back to the dining hall. Where they were I felt silly making them wait for me. To my amazement they waited for me to arrive before they ate dinner. Naturally that got me wondering so I decided to ask them why.

"You could've started without me I wouldn't have minded." I said sitting down. "It's rude to eat before our guest so please sit there's plenty. So eat your fill then my daughter will take you her favorite place in the palace." Lord Guile replied. "Of course my lord it's not my place to question you." I said. "Will you stop being so formal I appreciate the effort but, there's no need." He pointed out. Nepheri wanted to sit next to me so, I pulled the chair out on my left. Once she sat down I pushed her close to the table.

As I took my seat the servants began bringing everyone their meals. The food smelled and looked great so when my meal was placed in front of me. I waited for, Nepheri to begin before I did which got her attention. "Is there something wrong, dear?" She wondered. "I was only waiting for you to begin before I ate." I replied. "My mistake please don't wait on me to start eating." She said. "He's only being polite daughter so go ahead dear." Guile pointed out.

After dinner and dessert I stretched out making sure I didn't over stuff myself. Once I felt content I excused myself and went back out to the courtyard. I managed to find several practice swords lying around on a nearby rack. So I picked up two of them since I now owned a twin broadsword it would be good to practice. As I began I failed to see that I drew an audience. Nepheri walked over after I finished and gave me a cloth to clean the sweat off. When I finally sat down I placed the cloth on my thigh.

When I looked up at Nepheri I could see a person with a loving heart. She would make my life here peaceful as a goddess could provide. Every thing I knew about death and what I came to expect. Was not everything I had learn about, until the day I met her. She may have not lived amongst the mortals. Though she proved to me that anyone can have a loving heart. Even in this dreary place as I took her hand into mine. The love we had would be served equally and fairly. So I took her by the arm we walked inside two pieces of one coin. The emptiness each other had felt over the years was now filled by the love of the other.

The End.