Breaking Point



=One=

Part 1
'''Biana was well aware of the half-human-half-elf girl living in her home. It was like having another Sophie Foster, but she didn't trust this one, especially since her father was Fintan Pyren. Her life was chaotic enough as is!'''

Dex liked her, and she had to find away to tell him she didn't like him like that without crushing his heart or accidentally telling him her real crush.

That would be humiliating.

She thought about telling Sophie, but Sophie had kissed Dex!

'''Biana didn't want to kiss him, she just wanted to be his friend! Friend-zone him without making anyone feel bad. Easy, right?'''

Easy.

'''The lost cities were spiraling out of control. Biana felt kind of like a side character in it all, not able to believe the surreal circumstances.'''

'''Councillors were allowed to get married now, and Kenric and Oralie's wedding was coming up. Not to mention the way that half-elf-half-human girl kept giving her brother goo-goo eyes. And Fitz was just going along with it!'''

Sophie had decided that it was easier not to have a romantic relationship with anyone.

'''She couldn't handle the drama that went along with it. Biana wished it was that easy for her, but she couldn't just lock away her feelings in a box like Sophie did.'''

She was hanging out with Linh.

Glimmer was gone, as she often was, to her other life.

'''Biana wondered who Glimmer was. Maybe she had a family to go home to. Maybe she had an important job.'''

Linh was doing Biana's hair in little braids, when they heard a crash coming from Tam's room.

Tam was still trying to train that weird water dragon.

'''"You got water all over me!" they heard him shout at the dragon. He then mumbled something about wishing Linh would help him.'''

'''Linh giggled. "My brother is so over-dramatic. It's just a little water." Linh formed her own orb of water in front of Biana. "Do you still like him, by the way?"'''

'''Biana blushed, staring at the water hovering inches from her face. "Maybe a little."'''

'''Linh giggled. "And how about your brother?"'''

"He still likes that weird girl. I already forgot her name."

"Kalesh?"

"Yeah. Her. I swear, if I have to see them kiss..."

'''Linh sighed. "Sounds like someone is jealous because they don't have a boyfriend."'''

"Fitz isn't her boyfriend! And I'm not jealous..."

"You should try hanging out with Tam. You never know. He might feel the same way."

'''Biana bit her lip. Maybe Linh was right.'''

Maybe it was time to stop being ridiculous and confront her feeling.

Or maybe she could learn to be like Sophie and lock them away, ignoring them.

So many maybes.

When Kalesh moved into Councillor Bronte and his wife Emily's house, Fitz starting visiting Emily and Bronte all the time to check on Kalesh.

'''Kalesh was happy that Emily and Bronte had wanted to adopt her. It was certainly better than having Fintan as a father!'''

Ever since Fintan died, she had been living with the Vackers.

Bronte's wife was pregnant, and she was excited to have a family.

She felt normal.

'''Well, not completely normal. She had all these crazy abilities, like healing and bringing people to life, and she was the only elf to be able to do it.'''

She and Sophie got along well.

'''And that boy, Fitz, had admitted to liking her. It seemed like her life was piecing itself back together quite nicely.'''

'''Or, that's what it seemed like... until they got the news...'''

'''Fitz and Alden were standing outside the door of the Healing Center. Alden was pacing, and Fitz was sitting by the door. Della rushed over. "I came as soon as I heard what happened! Is she okay? Is Biana okay?"'''

Kalesh, Sophie, Tam, and Linh all rushed over.

'''"Is she okay?" Tam demanded immediately.'''

They heard shouting coming from behind the door.

"What's going on!? What's wrong with me!? What's happening!?"

'''Alden's face went pale. "I came into her room to wake her up this morning... and she was... in pain... and there was... she was crying... and I... I didn't know what to do..." Alden was trembling. "But th-there's no reason to worry... Elwin will figure out what's wrong, I'm sure..."'''

'''Tam looked down. Linh had told him Biana liked him. He felt the same way, and didn't want to tell her, but now felt like he should. What if there was something seriously wrong? What if she died and he never got to tell her that he liked her...'''

No.

He couldn't live with that.

'''He had to tell her as soon as possible.

'''

Biana sat up in bed.

She felt so much pain, and she didn't know where it was coming from...

'''She was in the Healing Center... How did she get here? She didn't remember...'''

'''She felt a scream make its way to her throat, and she let it out. She had no idea what kind of pain this was, but she hated it... it made her want to throw things and kick things and get mad... She screamed again, and heard people talking.'''

'''So many people... she didn't know what voice to focus on...'''

'''Elwin rushed over. She felt something press to her lips. A cold liquid went into her mouth, but she spit it out and continued to scream.'''

'''Her head was hurting so bad... and her ribcage was throbbing... and she felt cold... she felt a hand on her head and flailed.'''

No.

A voice swarmed her mind.

No! NO! LEAVE ME ALONE!

Whispering.

Silence.

"Biana?"

'''Who was saying that? What did that mean... was that her name...? Yes! Someone had said her name. The voice was familiar.'''

'''Then a different voice came. "Biana?"'''

Two someones were saying her name!

The voices...

She pried her eyes open.

People were surrounding her bed.

'''She recognized her mom... and her dad... and Fitz...'''

And there was a boy with black and silver hair.

'''What was his name again? Tam.'''

'''Tam was looking at her. He was the closest to her.'''

'''"T... Tam?" She tried to sit up, wincing. "Wh-what's going on?"'''

'''Tam breathed. She was suddenly filled with anger.'''

No. You can't control me!

'''She blinked hard and the voices dissipated. Then she started to cry. "What's happening to me?"'''

She grabbed Tam's hand.

'''Tam looked at her, his eyes wide. "I-I don't know..."'''

'''"You have to help me..." She looked at her father. "Dad, there are voices..."'''

'''"Voices?" he echoed.'''

'''"Voices! VOICES!" She squeezed Tam's hand tighter. "It's so scary... you have to help me..."'''

Everyone was suddenly hugging her.

"Biana, it's okay."

"Don't worry, Biana."

"Their not real, Biana."

'We ARE real! We ARE real!'

'''Biana cried harder.

'''

'''Tam held Biana's hand tightly. "Biana? It's okay... we'll help you."'''

'''He looked at everyone. "Guys, her shadow vapor is off-the-charts! And not in a good way..."'''

'''Biana started to cry again. "Am I dying?"'''

'''"No!" said Alden quickly. "S-sweety, you're not dying..."'''

'''Biana sniffled. "I feel like I'm dying..."'''

'''Elwin came back into the room. "Nobody is dying! Not on my watch!"'''

'''Biana smiled shakily. "Thanks, Elwin."'''

After everyone found out that Emery was the new leader of the Neverseen, Emily took his place in the Council.

Emery knew that Biana was suffering.

And he loved it.

He loved to think about the Vacker family in emotional turmoil.

'''Biana was the new, yet unwilling member of the Neverseen, and she didn't even know! And that wasn't even the best part! Fintan was gone, and he could do whatever he wanted! Things would be a lot different know that he was in charge.'''

A lot different.

Keefe sat in his room, trying out his new abilities.

Fire.

Water.

Air.

Earth.

'''He smiled to himself. He had all of the elemental abilities.'''

'''But he knew his abilities wouldn't save Biana. He'd heard about what happened. There was nothing he could do except sit in his room and make little orbs of water and fire, blowing them around, and make small earthquakes under his dad's feet and watch him fall on his face.'''

As much as Keefe loved to watch Cassius trip and face-plant, there was still nothing he could do about Biana.

'''Ro watched Keefe practice his abilities. She couldn't help but think, Poor kid. With a stupid mom and a stupid dad. The kid didn't deserve it. She didn't say it aloud, but she helped Keefe prank Cassius whenever possible. She watched him cry, laugh, and scream all in the same minute when he'd found out Gisela died. Apparently, Fintan killed her.'''

Poor kid.

Biana cried.

"Let me try something," spoke up Kalesh.

'''No. Not her. Anyone but her.'''

'''Kalesh laid her hands on Biana, closing her eyes. Her hands began to glow.'''

'''Kalesh searched for the pain. Searched for the hurting nerves and cells. But she couldn't find anything.'''

'''Biana suddenly flailed. "Stop it! I don't need you to heal me," she hissed.'''

'''Kalesh backed up. "Oh. Well, there's nothing to heal, anyways. I... can't find what's wrong."'''

'''Biana burst into hysterics. "What the heck is wrong with me!? Why isn't anything working!? MAKE THE VOICES GO AWAY! It hurts!" She sobbed.'''

'''Della and Alden hugged her. Alden was extremely pale. He held his daughter, silently hoping that there wasn't a reason to worry.

'''

Part 2
'''No reason to worry. No reason to worry. No reason to worry.'''

How many times did he have to tell himself that until it was true?

'''There was definitely a little worrying going on... but he wouldn't admit it.'''

He had to keep everyone calm, especially himself.

'''Deep breaths. Inhale... exhale...'''

Biana was going to be fine--

'''Right as Alden was thinking this, he heard Biana scream again. He suddenly jolted to his feet and barreled out of the room. Della followed him.'''

'''Tam moved closer to Biana, trying not to tear up. He squeezed her hand, listening to her screams. "I'm sorry, Biana... I'm sorry... I... I'm in love with you, Biana... I never told you before... just... please be okay. You have to be okay. You can't just... leave me..."'''

Everyone went silent.

Biana's screaming echoed off the walls.

'''Tam let a single tear fall down his face. He scowled and brushed it away.'''

'''Biana looked at him. Her screaming got quieter until it became a silent whimper. She locked eyes with Tam. She took a few shaky breaths. "I..." Tears rolled down the sides of her face. "I like you, too..."'''

'''Tam tugged on his bangs, biting his lip nervously. "Please... don't leave..."'''

"I won't," she whispered, wincing.

Tam gave his hair an extra hard tug, and leaned down to kiss her.

'''As soon as their lips met, all the pain melted away. The voice in her head was dead quiet.'''

'''When Tam pulled away, his face was red, and he was looking anywhere but at her eyes. "Tam," Biana whispered.'''

'''He glanced at her, his eyes watery. "I'm sorry... I-I shouldn't've done that..."'''

"What? No, Tam, it was perfect."

'''"I thought... I just... I'm a twin... and your part of a noble family... why would you ever want to be with me?" He looked away.'''

"Because your sweet and cute."

'''Tam blushed harder. "Th... thanks."

'''

'''Biana saw Kalesh and Fitz holding hands. Tam tried to stand and leave.'''

'''Biana grabbed his cape. "Wait! Please stay here..."'''

"Okay," he said quietly.

'''Alden was trembling. "I can't... that's my daughter, Della..."'''

'''Della wrapped an arm around him. "She's my daughter, too."'''

"I just... I really hope that she'll be okay."

'''"Me, too." She slowly leads him back to the Healing Center.'''

'''Biana looks up at him. "Hey, Dad."'''

'''Alden gave a shaky smile. "Hey, sweety, are you okay?"'''

"Yeah. Thanks to Tam. Sophie figured out that there's something wrong with my emotions. And Tam fixed it!"

"How did Tam fix it?"

"Well... He kissed me."

'''Alden looked at Tam. Tam blushed. "S-sorry--"'''

'''"Don't be sorry," Alden interrupted. "You saved my daughter."'''

"For now," Sophie jumped in.

'''Alden somehow got even more pale. "F-for now? Wh... what does that mean?"'''

"Well, Tam only temporarily fixed it. Her emotions are still weird... I just can't figure out what's wrong. And neither can Elwin," she told them.

'''Elwin sighed. "I'm no Empath."'''

'''Sophie's eyes suddenly lit up. "Yeah, but Keefe is."'''

'''Keefe was with Dex. Dex was messing with a gadget, trying to get Keefe to put it on his head.'''

"Come on Keefe. Just try it on."

"What is it gonna do to me?"

"You'll see. Just trust me."

'''Keefe snorted. "Right. Trust you."'''

He hesitantly took it from Dex and was about to put it on until Ro suddenly remarked, "I hope it makes him bald."

'''Keefe looked at him. "It's not gonna make me bald, is it?"'''

"Of course not!"

'''Keefe slowly put it on. His hair turned blue. "What'd you do to me, Diznee!?"'''

'''Dex laughed. "You can take it off if you don't like it."'''

"Can I change the color?"

"Sure. What do you want?"

"Pink!"

"You're ridiculous."

'''Dex took it, messing with it for a moment, then set it back on his head. "Bro! Don't touch the hair!" Keefe said, swatting his hand away'''

'''Dex's face went red. "Sorry!"'''

'''Keefe fixed the gadget on his head and his hair turned pink. He smiled. "Do I look good?"'''

"Sure."

'''Keefe's impartner beeped. "Foster's calling me. I hope she asks me out on a date."'''

"Keefe! We need your help!"

"What? Why? Are you okay?"

"Yes, but Biana isn't. We need your help."

"Why?"

"We need your help figuring out what's wrong with her and possibly healing her."

"Really? Can Dex come?"

"Um. Sure."

'''Dex looked at Biana, then at Keefe, then at Tam, Kalesh, and Fitz. "Is she okay?"'''

'''Tam was holding Biana's hand. "Hopefully..." He looked at Keefe. "Can you help her?"'''

"I'll try..."

'''Keefe grabbed Biana's other hand. He suddenly yelped, tearing his hand away.'''

'''"There's... nothing..." he whispered.'''

'''"What do you mean there's nothing!? What is happening to my daughter!?" Alden demanded.'''

'''Keefe winced. "I... I don't know... it's like she doesn't have any emotions at all..."'''

'''"Why is your hair pink?" Biana whispered.'''

'''Keefe gave a half-hearted smirk. "Do you like it?"

'''

'''Bronte was with his wife, Emily. Clarette knocked on the front door, and when no one answered, she let herself in. "Bronte? Emily?"'''

'''Bronte and Emily were in the kitchen. The whole tower smelled like food. Delicious food. She hadn't known Bronte to be good at cooking.'''

"Bronte," she heard Emily say, "You're cooking those wrong."

"I'm sorry! I have no idea what I'm doing."

'''Emily kissed him. "Idiot."'''

Bronte grumbled something under his breath.

Clarette smiled.

'''Emily whirled around. "Clarette!"'''

"Hey, guys! I couldn't help but smell that you were baking blitzenberry muffins! You know those are my favourite."

'''Emily smiled. "Yeah, that's mine, not Bronte's."'''

'''"I'm trying to make human food because Emily challenged me to. She knows I'm no good at cooking!" Bronte looked at Emily, giving a small smile.'''

'''Clarette continued to smile at them. "Yeah, Zarina can't cook, either."

'''

"Yeah, my husband is terrible at baking," said Emily loudly

'''Bronte scoffed. "Don't you have somewhere to be?"'''

'''Emily gasped suddenly. "Oh! I completely forgot! I have to visit my brother today! Thanks for reminding me."'''

"Whatever," grumbled Bronte.

'''Emily giggled. "He's so grumpy, isn't he? It's adorable."'''

Bronte scowled, biting back a smile.

'''Clarette laughed. "How did you two even meet?"'''

'''Emily squealed. "Oh, I love that story! Can I tell her, Bronte? Can I--"'''

"Not right now! You have to leave!"

'''"Oh. Right." She rushed out.'''

'''Bronte smiled. "I love her."'''

'''Clarette stood. "I can tell. And I'd better head back to my wife, too."'''

"Alright. See you later, Clarette."

'''"Yes. Later." She quickly hugged Bronte and rushed out.'''

'''Zarina was humming to herself. She was setting a few pieces of silverware in the sink to be washed when she heard a noise behind her. She whirled around. "Clair! You're home!"'''

'''Clarette smiled. "Emily is such a fun person."'''

"I know! Bronte is the total opposite of her."

'''Clarette giggled. "Yeah, he is. You should stop being so shy and visit them with me."'''

"Hm, well... I'd love to--"

"But you're too introverted?"

'''Zarina smiled, blushing. "Maybe just a little."'''

'''Clarette snorted. "Just a little. I have a feeling you'll like Emily."'''

"I know. She sounds so nice. And not to mention, pretty..."

'''Clarette nudged her. "Hey!"'''

"I'm kidding! You're way prettier."

"I know."

'''Zarina kissed her. "How did I fall in love with you?"'''

'''Clarette shrugged. "I'm a lucky girl."'''

"Yes. Yes, you are."

'''Meanwhile, Keefe was laughing. "Bangs Boy and Biana? Wow. I gotta say, I wasn't expecting it."'''

'''Tam raised an eyebrow. "You think I'm weird? What about you're relationship?"'''

'''Keefe blushed. "You... whatever."'''

'''"What-- Keefe is in a relationship?" asked Sophie. She felt hurt for some reason.'''

'''"Tam, you promised you wouldn't tell anyone!" Keefe's eyes were wide.'''

"I won't. I swear," Tam promised.

'''"What? Keefe, you have to tell us who it is!" Fitz said.'''

"No!"

'''Biana sighed. "Not to make this about me or anything... but the voices are coming back and they're really loud."'''

'''Tam squeezed her hand. "Is there anything I can do?"'''

'''"How 'bout you kiss her again?" suggested Kalesh. "That seemed to work the first time."'''

'''Tam blushed. "Um."'''

'''Biana smiled. "I don't think that'll work this time. But you're free to kiss me anyways."'''

'''Tam's face got redder. "Hmph."'''

Biana suddenly yelped in pain, then started to scream.

'''She was squeezing Tam's hand rather hard, but Tam didn't dare to pull away. His eyes were wide. "Biana!"'''

Biana abruptly went silent.

She had gone unconscious.

Tam teared up and pulled her against him, holding her.

Sophie had gone off to tell the Black Swan.

'''Granite suddenly spit out the weird purple stuff he was drinking. "WHAT? Did you say it was her emotions? What do you mean they're GONE!? Oh, no... nononono... this can't be happening..."'''

'''"Granite? What seems to be the problem?" asked Mr. Forkle.'''

"It's... do you remember when Haze was part of the Neverseen?"

"Your sister? Who lives here in Alluveterre with us? Whom I see every day at breakfast? Who used to have a crush on Fintan? No, I don't believe I can recall who you're speaking of," said Mr. Forkle sarcastically.

"Yeah, well, um, funny story... when my sister was in the Neverseen, she may have created this poison..."

"WHAT!? Don't you think that would've been important to tell us!?"

"I was too busy teasing her about liking Fintan!"

"Siblings," Mr. Forkle growled.

'''"She can fix it, though!" Granite said quickly.'''

"Well call her down here!"

'''Haze had escaped the Neverseen after she found out that Fintan had killed his wife and was planning on killing Tiergan/Granite, who is her brother. She took Gethen with her, and, together, they made their way to the Black Swan and told them about Fintan's plans.'''

Haze ended up killing Fintan after he attempted to murder Bronte, and fell in love with Gethen.

'''She is a Phaser and an Empath, and while she was with the Neverseen, she had helped them make a deadly poison that makes a person feel so much emotional pain, that they feel it physically, and eventually die. Haze was a skilled Empath, and was able to reverse the symptoms before the person died.'''

'''Emery was the new leader of the Neverseen, and had admitted it to the Council, and ran away. After he found out that Fintan was dead, he wanted revenge.'''

And who better to take revenge on than the Vacker family?

'''Alden didn't know what was scarier. The fact that his daughter was poisoned, or how Emery had gotten the poison in her.'''

'''A poison dart? Slipped it into her food? Came into the house while everyone was sleeping?'''

He shuddered.

'''How did Emery manage to poison his daughter right under he and Della's noses?

'''

Part 3
'''Tiergan knocked on the door of Haze's room. "Haze!"'''

'''She answered the door. "Hi, Tiergan! Do I have to call you Granite? That's a dumb nickname."'''

"Wh... It's not dumb! I just... we need your help."

'''She was brushing her hair. She sighed and set her brush down. "With what?"'''

"You have to heal Biana!"

"What's wrong with Biana?"

"She was poisoned by Emery."

'''Haze's face paled. "It wasn't the emotion potion, was it?"'''

'''Tiergan snorted. "" You called it the emotion potion?"'''

'''Haze blushed. "I... that's not the point!"'''

"Hey, you were just making fun of my nickname!"

"That's because Granite sounds dumb."

"So does emotion potion."

"Whatever."

'''Tiergan smiled. "I only tease you because you're my sister--"'''

"And you hate me?"

'''He smiled wider. "I don't hate you! Don't be a baby. I love you."'''

He hugged her.

'''She hugged back. "Idiot."'''

'''"Dork," he said back. "Okay, now go heal Biana!"'''

'''"Okay!" She rushed away.'''

'''Tiergan peeked into Haze's room. Gethen was sitting there. He was shirtless.'''

'''Tiergan snickered. "What are you doing in here?"'''

"Um. W-we were just kissing, I swear--"

"Wow. I'm gonna make fun of Haze for this for the rest of her life."

"Hey, it's not like YOU have a relationship."

'''"For your information, I am in a relationship!" Tiergan said, blushing.'''

'''Gethen stared at him. "Really? Who?"'''

"Um. I... I've already said too much."

"No, now you have to tell me!"

"No I don't!"

"Yes, you do!"

"It's... just some girl..."

"But who?"

'''Tiergan walked away quickly. Gethen sighed.'''

'''Tiergan had lied. He wasn't in a relationship. He had liked this person for a while. But he had no idea if they even remembered who he was... which kinda made him sad...'''

He decided to tell the person that he liked them.

Which would be awkward.

And weird.

And embarrassing.

Elwin was just giving Biana a sedative to calm her down when Haze and Tiergan came in.

'''"I'm here to heal Biana!" said Haze enthusiastically.'''

'''Tiegan looked at Elwin. "E-Elwin? Can I talk to you?"'''

Elwin took off his crazy goggles and followed him outside the room.

"Do you remember when we were kids? Back in Foxfire?"

'''Elwin chuckled. "How could I forget? We used to be best friends."'''

'''"Yeah." Tiergan smiled nervously. "We were."'''

"Man, you used to tell me some weird stuff."

"You did, too!"

"Okay, so... why do you want to talk to me about this?"

"Because... I... I never told you... how I felt... about you..."

"... And... how did you feel? About me?"

'''Tiergan blushed. "Well. Um. I still do feel the same way... I just never told you... and it might be weird... Is it weird?"'''

'''"You mean... you... like me? Like... like me?" Elwin suddenly laughed. "Well, that's interesting. I never thought you liked..."'''

'''"Guys?" Tiergan mumbled.'''

"Yeah. Because... I did, too."

'''"Really?" Tiergan was shocked.'''

"Yeah! I totally liked you. But I also thought you were totally straight."

"Oh. Wait... so... do you still like me?"

'''"I haven't thought about it in a while..." Elwin looked at Tiergan. "I mean..." Their eyes locked. "I suppose it's a possibility... that I like you in the same way..."'''

'''Tiergan got lost in his grayish eyes. "Um. Yeah?"'''

"Yeah."

'''There was a long silence. Tiergan blushed as Elwin moved a little closer to him--'''

Biana screamed, jerking both of them back to reality.

'''"WHAT DID YOU DO TO HER!?" they heard Tam scream.'''

'''Both of their faces paled as they rushed to see what was going on.

'''

Haze was holding Biana's hand.

'''"WHAT ARE YOU DOING TO HER!? WHY IS SHE SCREAMING!?" demanded Tam.'''

'''Haze quickly shushed him. "The healing process is beginning! She's going to be in a lot of pain for a minute, just be quiet!"'''

Tam squeezed Biana's other hand.

Tiergan and Elwin burst into the room.

'''"She's okay!" said Haze quickly.'''

Alden looked on the brink of tears.

'''Biana's screaming slowly stopped. "Wha... Tam?"'''

'''Tam's eyes lit up. "Biana! Are you okay? Are you better? Are you still in pain?"'''

'''Biana gave a shaky smile. "I'm fine..."'''

'''Tam blushed slightly. "S-sorry... I just really hope you're okay now..."'''

Alden coughed.

'''Biana let go of Tam's hand and threw her arms around Alden. "Dad... I'm sorry..."'''

'''Alden teared up, holding her. "Don't be sorry."'''

Della joined the hug, and so did Fitz.

Elwin and Tiergan smiled at each other.

'''Dex and Keefe were still there. Keefe's hair was still pink.'''

'''Suddenly, Cassius and Ro both burst into the room. Cassius looked furious. "KEEFE SENCEN!!" he screamed.'''

'''Ro looked guilty. "I swear, I didn't tell him! He read your notebook..."'''

'''Keefe's face went pale. Cassius grabbed him roughly. "You have a lot of explaining to do."'''

Suddenly, Tam jumped in, "Hey, it's not his fault! If anything, blame Dex."

'''Dex looked shocked. "What!? No! Don't blame me!"'''

Everyone else looked confused.

'''"Keefe, Tam, Dex, what's going on?" asked Sophie.'''

"NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS," howled Cassius, pulling out his pathfinder and leaping Keefe and Ro away.

Dex looked guilty.

'''Tam sighed. "The pink hair gave it away."'''

'''"Gave what away?" asked Sophie.'''

'''Tam sighed heavily again. "Why don't you ask Dex?"'''

'''Dex looked down. "Tam, you promised you wouldn't tell."'''

'''Tam narrowed his eyes. "Yeah, I guess I did."

'''

~Meanwhile~
Emily, Bronte's wife was walking down the street, about to visit her brother, Daniel.

'''Daniel lives in Delaware, in the Forbidden Cities (which technically aren't forbidden anymore). Emily was walking down the sidewalk, and turned to go up the steps and knock on the door. "Daniel!" she called cheerfully.'''

'''She suddenly felt something grab her from behind. She tried to scream, but the person put their hand over her mouth, and was holding her roughly against him. She kicked and thrashed, but the person was strong and dragged her away.'''

'''Daniel opened the door. He looked around. Emily wasn't there. "Emily, I swear, if you jump out and scare me..."'''

Silence.

He shrugged and closed the door.

'''Ro scowled at Cassius as he screamed at Keefe. Keefe was in tears.'''

When Cassius finally walked away, Ro went over to Keefe, sitting by him on his bed.

'''She sighed. Keefe continues to cry. "Hey," she said.'''

'''Keefe looked up at her. "Wh-what?" He sniffled.'''

"I just... You're dad's a jerk."

"Yeah, I know..."

"I wish I could kill him."

"Go ahead."

'''Ro smirked. "I wish. I tried to stop him from reading the notebook, but he is so stubborn! Kinda like you. Except in a bad way."'''

'''"Yeah, I know." Keefe suddenly hugged her.'''

'''Ro's eyes widened. She felt so awkward and didn't know where to put her arms...'''

"Um. I don't do hugs..."

'''"I know. Sorry." He pulled away.'''

Suddenly Dex came in.

"Wh- My dad let you in!?"

"No, I snuck in."

'''Keefe gave a shaky smile. "Oh, Diznee. Of course you did."'''

"Your hair is still pink."

"I know."

'''Dex hugged him. "I'm sorry... Tam was right... This is all my fault--"'''

'''"No, it isn't! Don't say that!" Keefe hugged him back.'''

'''Ro stepped back. "Do you want some privacy?"'''

Keefe nodded.

Ro stepped out of his room.

'''Keefe leaned forward and kissed Dex. "My dad really hates you, Diznee."'''

'''"I know..." Dex leaned against Keefe. "I'm sorry..."'''

"Don't be sorry."

'''Tam and Biana were sitting together outside Everglen. "Tam?"'''

"Yeah?"

"Why has Keefe been acting weird?"

"I promised not to tell."

"Yeah, I know... but... is he okay?"

"Yeah."

"Good. I'm glad you two are getting along."

"Hey, we're not friends or anything."

'''Biana smiled. "Yes, you are."'''

"Whatever--"

She cut him off with a kiss.

'''He pulled away, blushing. "Hmph. Keefe is an idiot."'''

"I know. But you're his friend."

Tam didn't say anything.

Biana smiled, leaning against him.

Tam seemed tense.

'''"What's wrong?" she asked him.'''

"Your dad... is watching us..."

'''She scoffed and turned around. Alden was standing by the window. He waved. She rolled her eyes. "DAD, GO AWAY!"'''

'''Alden made a face, but Della came over and lead him away from the window.

'''

Tam pulled Biana closer right as Della was pulling Alden away from the window.

"B-but, Della, they were kissing--"

"Leave them alone, sweety."

"But--"

"Hey, she's my daughter, too."

"I know, but, I... I'm her FATHER--"

"Alden Reyburne Vacker!"

'''Alden gave a small smile. "I know, I know... she's growing up too fast..."'''

'''Della kissed him, walking away. "Stay away from the window!"'''

'''Alden smiled. "Okay... if you say so..."'''

 

'''The man had dragged Emily into a dark room. She couldn't see anything, but he took his hand off her mouth, so she screamed as loud as possible.'''

The man's voice sounded familiar, as he laughed coldly, and said, "Nobody can hear you where we are."

'''He was pressing something sharp against her throat, which she assumed to be a knife. Emily was already in tears when he leaned against her ear and whispered, "I'm going to kill you."'''

'''Emily cried harder. "Who are you? Are you part of the Neverseen?"'''

'''He laughed again. "Maybe."'''

"I-if you kill me, Kalesh can bring me back."

"Not if they can't find your body."

'''The lights flick on, and Emily gapes at the person standing there. "Emery."'''

"Ya know, I've always hated your husband," Emery told her.

'''A dog was jumping around his feet, yipping. Emery growled and kicked the dog. The dog yelped in pain, scurrying away. "It was Fintan's dog. It's so annoying..."'''

Emily whispered, "You're a monster."

"For kicking the dog, or...?"

"Bronte will find me!"

'''"Sure." He scanned her for a moment. "Hm."'''

"Wh-what?"

"I was just thinking... maybe I won't kill you..."

"What...?"

'''The small, fluffy dog yipped and looked up at Emily. Emily was trembling.'''

'''Emery leaned forward. "I can see why Bronte married you."'''

'''He suddenly kissed her. She tore away. "Don't!"'''

"Why not?"

"Because I'm married," she hissed.

'''Emery laughed again. She hated his laugh.'''

 

'''Bronte was panicking. "Do you think she's okay? She's been gone all night..."'''

"She's probably just talking to her brother," assured Clarette.

"I... I'm gonna go check on her..."

"You're so paranoid."

"I know. That's because I care about her."

'''Bronte pounded on the front door. "Daniel?"'''

'''Daniel quickly answered. "Hey, Bronte. Isn't Emily coming to visit me?"'''

'''Bronte's face paled. "She... didn't show up?"'''

"Nope. Was she supposed to?"

"Yes!"

'''Daniel's eyes widened. "Call her!"'''

'''Emily's impartner beeped. Emery picked it up. "Hm. It's your husband."'''

'''Emily groaned. She now had a stab-wound in her arm, which was bleeding.'''

'''Emery answered the call. "Hello!"'''

'''Bronte gasped. "Emery?"'''

"I know you're probably looking for your wife."

"WHERE IS SHE!?"

'''"Relax, she's right here." He pointed the impartner in Emily's direction.'''

'''Bronte let out a strangled scream. "EMILY!"'''

"She's not dead yet. I'm sure if you can find her in a couple hours, I might spare her life."

"A couple H-HOURS!?"

"I know it's not much time. So... I'll probably kill her. Also, keep the Council out of it, or she dies now."

'''Emery made a big display of grabbing her and kissing her on the lips. Emily sobs, pulling back. "B-Bronte--" she manages to get out before Emery hangs up.'''

Bronte screams, throwing the impartner across the room.

'''Daniel was crying. "That's my sister... he has my sister..."'''

'''"THAT'S MY WIFE!! MY WIFE!!" Bronte fought back tears. "We're going to FIND HER!!"'''

'''Daniel sniffled. "Wh-what if we don't get to her in time--"'''

"WE'RE GOING TO GET HER BACK! I will NOT lose her!"

'''Daniel was trembling. "I... I don't know, Bronte... we don't even know if she's in the Forbidden Cities or the lost cities..."'''

'''They searched all the rest of the night. Two hours had already gone by, and they were attempting to track down her registry pendant, but ended up finding the ruined pendant covered in blood, on the side of the street.'''

'''Bronte held the pendant, trying not to cry. "Emily..."'''

'''"We're running out of time!" Daniel warned anxiously. He checked his watch for the millionth time.'''

'''Bronte's impartner beeped. He answered it.'''

'''Emery's face appeared. He smiled. "Time's up."'''

"NO! Give us more time! PLEASE! I'll do anything! Y-you can't hurt my wife!"

'''"It's 1 o'clock a.m., Bronte. You've been up all night." Emery pulled Emily into view on the tiny impartner screen. He held up his knife, and pressed it into her throat--'''

'''Daniel grabbed the impartner and smashed it against the sidewalk. "I'M NOT WATCHING HIM KILL HER! I can't DO it, BRONTE!!" He burst into tears, sitting by the smashed impatner.'''

"He killed her," Bronte whispered.

'''"I KNOW! I SAW!" shouted Daniel.'''

'''"He killed her," he whispered again. He collapsed. "No... no..."'''

'''"This is all your FAULT!" Daniel screamed. "I wish you'd never fallen in love with her! SHE'S DEAD! AND IT'S YOUR FAULT!!"'''

"It's my fault," Bronte whispered.

He sat there on the ground for a while longer, even when Daniel stormed away.

'''He didn't remember getting up and going back home, but he found himself laying in bed, staring at the pillow where Emily's head should have been. Imagining her snoring softly, wishing he hadn't scowled so much at her silliness, cursing himself for every time he rolled his eyes at her. Wishing to hear her laugh and make fun of his ears, or tease him for being a terrible chef...'''

What broke his heart even more was the fact that she had been pregnant, and now he would never get to see what his daughter would've looked like.

He broke down crying, curled up in bed, knowing he'd never sleep as peacefully again without hearing her snore or accidentally kick him in her sleep, and she'd never embarrass him for being grumpy, or call him silly names like "Councillor Grumpypants."

He would now be Councillor Bronte.

The same Councillor Bronte that he was before he met Emily.

Always in a bad mood.

And lonely.

'''Very lonely...

'''

Part 4
Bronte sat by Oralie, his eyes red from crying.

'''Oralie gasped. "Bronte, are you okay?"'''

He didn't respond, just glanced at a few scrolls sitting on his desk and started to scan through them.

'''There was a long pause. "Where's Emily?"'''

Bronte held his silence, trying desperately not to cry again.

"Bronte..."

'''Bronte looked at her, his eyes watering. He sniffled. "Uh. I. Hm--" His words weren't quite working. He couldn't bring himself to say it. He could still hardly believe it had happened...'''

'''He burst into tears. Everyone looked at him, surprised. He'd never been so emotional before.'''

'''Oralie grabbed his hand, then quickly tore her hand away, gasping. "No... Bronte... is she...?"'''

'''She'd read it in his emotions. There was nothing in the world that would've caused him such grief except losing Emily.'''

And she was gone.

'''Oralie hugged him. Kenric rushed next to his wife, immediately asking her what was wrong.'''

'''"You're a telepath, aren't you?" Bronte growled through his tears, letting Oralie hug him, but not hugging back.'''

'''Kenric suddenly got very pale. "Bronte, I'm so sorry--"'''

'''He pulled away from Oralie. "I. Am. Fine." But even as he said this, he was wiping tears away, sniffling, and his voice cracked. He cleared his throat. "I-I... I'll live..."'''

'''Oralie glared at him, tearing up. "Don't! Emily was my friend! Now hug me, darn it!"'''

'''He looked at her wearily. "Oralie..."'''

She grabbed his arm, pulling him to his feet, and hugging him tightly.

Bronte broke down, crying on her shoulder, and hugged back.

'''"So... what are you gonna do now?" Oralie whispered.'''

'''They were alone. The last ones to head back to their towers.'''

'''"Easy," growled Bronte, his hands curling into fists. "I'm going to kill Emery."'''

''' Fitz looked at Kalesh. Kalesh was sobbing.'''

News had gotten out that Emily had died, and Emily was going to be her adoptive mother.

"We only met a few times," sniffled Kalesh, "And now she's d-dead!"

'''Fitz grabbed her hand. "I'm so sorry this had to happen to you..."'''

"I'm glad you're here..."

"I'll always be here for you."

Kalesh smiled shakily, giving his hand a grateful squeeze.

 Cassius glared at Keefe.

Ro glared at Cassius.

Keefe stared at his plate.

They were having breakfast.

Keefe was poking his food with his fork, thinking about Dex.

Ro wanted to stab Cassius for the way he yelled at Keefe earlier.

'''Keefe gave a faint smile, imagining how awkward Dex would be if he were here right now. Keefe would grab his hand under the table, maybe give him a really sappy compliment just to make his dad mad, and to make Dex blush.'''

"So, how are your grades in school?"

"Fine."

"If only you didn't get detention so often. You'd be such I better student, like I was."

'''"Why would I ever want to be like you?" Keefe shot back.'''

'''Ro snorted. Cassius frowned. "I'm really disappointed in you, Keefe."'''

"Well, that's new," he muttered sarcastically.

'''Cassius's frown deepened. "I'm serious."'''

"Why? Because I'm having a successful relationship, getting good grades, and am a talented Empath with all of the elemental abilities? Yeah, worst son ever, right?"

'''Cassius looked at him. "When were you going to tell me that you're gay?"'''

'''Keefe tensed. Ro glared at him.'''

"Do you... have a problem with it?"

'''Cassius flew up from his chair. "Yes!"'''

Keefe picked at his food.

Cassius suddenly flipped the table.

Keefe grimaced as there was a loud crash, and all the food hit the floor.

'''Ro stood. Cassius stalked closer to Keefe, and then grabbed him by the front of his shirt.'''

'''Ro aimed her sword at him. "Hey, back off! I WILL use this!"'''

'''Cassius hesitated, then stormed away.

'''

'''Emery smiled at Emily. "I'm so glad I didn't kill you."'''

'''Emily groaned. The annoying dog yipped again. "Bronte... is going to find me..." she rasped.'''

'''Emery cackled. "Sure. Do you even know where we are?"'''

"No..."

"Welcome to the third Nightfall."

"Th... third?"

"Yes, I made it myself. A dragon broke out of here. I'm not sure where it is now..."

'''Emery glared at Emily. She was beautiful. Who knew he would end up being jealous of Bronte's love life? Emily looked so scared. He decided that he was bored. After all, he exposed himself as a member as the Neverseen and ditched the Council, and missed all of the power he used to have. After all, he was special. He could do things others couldn't. His mind didn't break from guilt. In fact, he felt quite emotionally stable. He was feeling good today. A little kidnapping had caused so much panic. Why did they care so much? It was just the wife of a Councillor. When he was a Councillor, there was no such thing as Council marriages! And Bronte had gotten married to a human, illegally, before the law was repealed. How was that fair? Not that Emery was ever interested in love or anything. I mean, Emily was pretty, but not worth a marriage. There were a lot of pretty women out there. Why Emily? He smirked to himself.'''

'''His father was the same way, too. After he had split from his mother, he wasn't the best father...'''

But that was beside the point.

'''The dog yipped again, jolting him out of his thoughts. He kicked the dog again.'''

Emily was gaping at him.

'''"What?" he asked.'''

'''She gulped. "Um. You said all of that out loud."'''

"Huh. Cool."

"You're insane."

"No, I'm not," he said quickly.

"And... what was that about your dad?"

'''"NOTHING!!" Emery suddenly screamed, stepping away from her.'''

'''How dare she bring up his father!? She had no idea! NO IDEA!!'''

He angrily picked up his knife, slashing her shoulder with it.

'''She screamed.

'''

'''Tam patted the dragon on its head, smiling. "It won't hurt you, Biana."'''

'''Biana was tense. "Um, why do you even have that thing?"'''

"The Black Swan saved her! Linh and I are taking care of it."

The axolotl dragon hopped back into the pool, splashing water all over Biana and Tam.

'''Biana yelped. "Hey!"'''

'''Tam smiled. "It's just water. And we have an indoor pool now. Isn't that cool? Here..." He handed Biana his cape. "Hold my cape."'''

"What're you do--"

'''Tam jumped into the water with the dragon. Biana yelped again, as more water splashed all over her. Tam laughed.'''

'''Biana wiped water off her face, her makeup smearing. "That is NOT funny, Tam!"'''

'''Tam frowned. "Sorry--"'''

'''Biana sighed. "Don't be sorry. I'm overreacting."'''

"Do you wanna swim with us?"

"Um--"

"I'll show you how to ride her underwater."

'''"Her?" Biana asked.'''

'''"Yeah," said Tam. "Her name is ShadowHeart, by the way."'''

'''"I like that name... sure... I'll swim with you..." She took off her cape. "I don't have any swim clothes, though--"'''

"You can borrow one of Linh's. I'm sure she won't mind."

"Okay."

'''Tiergan blushed, scratching the back of his head. "So..."'''

'''Elwin smiled. "So...?"'''

"Do you think... you'd like to go out with me?"

"Of course!"

'''Tiergan smiled. "I... I really like you, Elwin."'''

'''Elwin chuckled. "I like you, too. I just can't believe it's taken all these hundreds of years for you to admit it."'''

"Yeah, I'm not very good with confrontation..."

"I can tell. It's cute."

"Wh--"

"I mean, you. You're cute."

'''"Wh--... Thank you..." He blushed.'''

'''Elwin looked down. "I'm sorry--"'''

"No! You're cute, too! Like, a lot... you're really good-looking, and I love your hair because it's always a mess... and I... I love you... and everything about you..."

'''Elwin locked eyes with him. "Really?"'''

"I mean, I think about you all the time... I'm sorry, this is super embarrassing--"

'''Elwin cut him off with a kiss. Tiergan's eyes went wide.'''

'''Elwin suddenly tore away, blushing. "Jeez, I'm sorry... I always do that..."'''

'''"Wh-what?" Tiergan was dazed.'''

"I shouldn't be jumping into the relationship like this. I do that all the time, and I mess it up... I mess everything up... and then the other person leaves--"

"Wh-- No! No, I'm not leaving you. It's fine. I've literally always wanted to do that!"

"What?"

"K-kiss you..."

'''Elwin looked back up at him. "R-really?"'''

"Yeah!"

"I just assumed that you wouldn't want me to... to do that..."

'''Tiergan grabbed his hand, blushing. "You have no idea how much I like you..."'''

'''Elwin was tearing up. "Tiergan, I'm terrible at relationships..."'''

"Hey, I am, too. We're gonna figure this out together."

'''Elwin searched his eyes, and found only love. He gave a shaky sigh. "Okay..."'''

'''Tiergan carefully wrapped his arms around him. "I promise... we're gonna figure this out..."'''

'''Elwin felt his heart skip a beat. He bit his lip, letting Tiergan lean into him. He kissed Tiergan's forehead.'''

They were standing together in the Healing Center.

Magnate Leto cleared his throat.

'''Elwin flailed away from Tiergan. Tiergan whirled around. He cleared his throat, blushing. "M-Magnate Leto."'''

"There's a Foxfire student in need of your attention, Elwin," he said, smiling.

'''Mr. Forkle smiled at Granite. "Granite, you never told us you and Elwin--"'''

'''"You and Elwin!?" Squall squealed before Mr. Forkle could finish.'''

'''Granite blushed under his disguise. "It's only... we only just started being together."'''

'''All the members of the Collective were there. They were the only ones who knew Tiergan/Granite was gay. Not even Haze knew.'''

'''Granite was smiling bashfully. "I like him alot..."'''

'''"Awww, that's adorable!" Squall exclaimed.'''

"I... well... he's adorable..."

'''Squall smiled. "That's amazing! Finally, you're not single."

'''

Part 5
Bronte was sitting by a tiny Wanderling Tree.

'''He caught one of the white flowers that fell off of the tree. He held it carefully, sniffling. "Her hair was so blonde it was almost white... j-just like these flowers..."'''

'''He burst into tears. Someone cleared their throat. He looked up, choking back tears, wiping his eyes roughly. Daniel was standing there.'''

"I... I'm sorry I blamed you for her death... I say irrational things when I'm sad..."

"Yeah... I r-really miss her--" He cut himself off, crying harder and covering his face with his hands.

'''Daniel sat by him, sighing. "I'm sorry."'''

'''"I l-loved her so m-much..." He trailed off as he saw Kalesh slowly come over.'''

'''"H-hi..." she whispered.'''

'''Oh, yeah. Today wasn't only Emily's funeral, but also the day that Kalesh would be coming to live with him. His heart dropped. Being a dad... by himself... was going to be tough...'''

'''Emily gritted her teeth against the pain. She had to escape somehow. Had to...'''

'''She looked around. There was the knife... she could use it to free herself from the ropes that were tying her to this chair...She had to get him to put the knife down...'''

Than she got an idea.

She didn't like it, but it was the only one she had.

'''Emery smiled at her. "You're going to be stuck here forever, you know that?"'''

"Sure. Ya know... maybe I married the wrong Councillor."

'''That caught him off-guard. "What?"'''

"I should've married you. You're a lot better looking."

'''Emery slowly smiled. "I think you're getting delirious from blood loss."'''

'''She laughed. "No, I'm not."'''

'''"Yes, you are." He kissed her.'''

She forced herself to kiss back.

'''He pulled away, surprised. "You really are delirious."'''

Emily forced a smile.

Emery set the knife down.

Right on her lap.

'''The idiot set the knife RIGHT ON HER LAP. She smirked. What an idiot.'''

'''He stopped kissing her after a moment. "I have to go."'''

"Why?"

"The Black Swan isn't the only organization with people who have alternate identities."

Interesting.

He left.

'''The knife was still on her lap. She leaned down and grabbed it with her mouth. Then she turned her head back, and dropped the knife into her bound hands, and started cutting away at the ropes.'''

'''She liked the sound it made as she finally freed her raw wrists, untied her feet, and wobbled out of the chair. She then collapsed, screaming in pain.'''

She slowly caught her breath.

'''She was in no condition to stand. But there was a crystal on the table next to her. She had no idea where it lead, and she didn't have a nexus, so she could fade...'''

But she had to get out of here.

Had to.

She missed Bronte.

'''Kalesh sat with Bronte. She sighed. Things were already awkward. Getting to know each other was weird. Sitting at the table together was weird. Being left at home alone while he was gone was weird. Emily would've made this so much more fun. She would've played some silly game with her, or had them cook together... and Bronte was too emotional to really... do anything.'''

'''Bronte cleared his throat. "I... I'm sorry. I'm not very good at this whole... Dad thing..."'''

"It's okay. I'm not good at this whole daughter thing..."

'''Bronte gave a shaky smile. "I guess we're figuring this out together, huh?"'''

'''"Yeah. I guess so."

'''

'''Emily took the crystal off of the table, yelping in pain, and held it up to the light with trembling hands. She crawled into the beam of light, screaming, desperately trying not to fade away, and the light whisked her in front of a huge house.'''

Everglen.

Why did Emery have a crystal that leapt straight to Everglen?

'''That didn't matter right now. She felt herself slipping away as she crawled up to the gate. She screamed as loud as she could to try to get someone's attention.'''

Anyone's attention...

'''Alden was suddenly barreling out of the house. "JESUS! EMILY!?"'''

Emily grimaced, and rasped, "Help me... please..."

'''Everything was fading. She didn't want to fade, she wanted to stay alive. She wanted Bronte... and her daughter to be born... and to get to know Kalesh...'''

'''Emily pried her eyes open to blinding light. She couldn't speak. Could barely move.'''

'''Nothing made sense. She heard talking, but she couldn't understand it... her mind spun, and she immediately felt nauseous. She tried to open her mouth, but then drifted off again.'''

Darkness.

'''She opened her eyes again. This time, she saw more than just blinding light. She saw figures. People.'''

A small groan escaped her lips, and she was pretty sure she heard someone shout her name.

Bronte.

She looked up at Bronte.

'''Bronte was leaning by her bed, tears in his eyes. "Emily? Can you hear me?"'''

Emily couldn't speak, but she gave a faint smile to let him know she could hear him.

'''Bronte burst into tears. He looked like, as Emily would say, a hot mess, minus the hot. His eyes were red and his hair was a disheveled, and he had dark circles under his eyes. He looked like he hadn't moved from his spot by her bed for a very long time.'''

'''She moved her hand a little, and carefully placed it on his. He squeezed her hand, in tears.'''

"Emily... I-I missed you so much..."

'''Emily felt one of her own tears roll down the side of her face. She tried to say his name, but no sound came out.'''

'''"ELWIN!" Bronte called.'''

'''Elwin came running. "Councillor Bronte--"'''

"My wife needs some water."

'''Elwin looked at Emily, his eyes wide. "Of course." He hurried away to fetch a bottle of Youth.'''

He rushed back.

Emily gratefully gulped down half the bottle.

'''She cleared her throat, wincing. "B-B... Bronte..."'''

Bronte lit up at the sound of her saying his name and continued to get emotional.

'''"Emily! Jesus, you... I-I thought you d-died..." He wiped his eyes roughly. "I love you so much, Em', y-you have no idea... I..."'''

"I love you, too... how long was I gone?"

"Um. I don't... I wasn't keeping track of the days..."

'''Elwin pressed his lips together. "A month and a half."'''

'''"A m-month and a half..." Emily could hardly believe it.'''

'''Bronte sighed heavily. "And... how long have I... been here?"'''

"Two weeks. It's been two weeks since the last time you've... moved from this spot..."

'''"No wonder I'm so hungry..." mumbled Bronte.'''

'''"Councillor Bronte," Emily attempted to scold him with her raspy voice. "You need to eat food."'''

'''He blinked. "But, E-Emily--"'''

"No! Bronte, I love you. You need food. You're going to make me cry..."

'''"N-no, s-sweety, please don't cry... I... I'll go get something to eat." He squeezed her hand and hurried out.'''

'''She smiled. "I could go for some food, too..."'''

'''Elwin nodded. "I got some soup for you. And... drink it slowly. Your body can't take so much food right now."'''

'''"Okay." She took the bowl of soup from him and carefully sipped it.'''

"It's hot..."

"It's so good... I can't tell..."

Elwin bit his lip as Emily sipped it again.

Bronte came back with a plate of food...

On a school lunch tray.

'''Emily smiled. "Bronte, did you get that from Foxfire?"'''

'''"Well, we're in the Healing Center... and it was the closest place... so... yeah..." He smiled bashfully.'''

'''She laughed lightly, then grimaced. "Ow."'''

'''"Are you okay?" he asked quickly.'''

'''"Yes." She smiled. "You're still so adorably protective."'''

"I th-thought you d-died, Emily..."

'''She motions for him to lean forward and kisses him. He kisses back.'''

"It's... been a while since you've kissed me..."

"I know," whispers Emily, sweeping the hair off his forehead.

'''Kalesh suddenly walked into the room. "Bronte--" She gasped when she saw Emily. "Emily!" She hugged Emily gently.'''

"Kalesh! Has Bronte been a good dad?"

'''"The best!" exclaimed Kalesh, causing Bronte to tear up. "He's always makes time for me, to help me with homework and stuff, even when he's been worried about you, and he's just been so great! He's not the best cook, though."'''

Bronte scowled, and Emily laughed.

'''Kalesh smiled and hugged Bronte. "You have been a great dad, though, Bronte. I'm really glad you and Emily adopted me..."'''

Bronte inhaled sharply and hugged her back.

'''Emily smiled. "See, Bronte? I told you you'd be an awesome father."'''

'''Bronte's voice cracked. "Th-thanks..." He sniffled as Kalesh pulled away.

'''

Emily sat up.

"Emily, you shouldn't be--"

"Oh, I'm fine."

"Emily. I'm serious. And... What did Emery do to you?"

"Um. Well, he did stab me quite a few times... and... he kissed me..."

"HE WHAT!?"

'''Emily started to tear up. "There was nothing I could do..."'''

"HE KISSED YOU!?"

"Y-yeah..."

'''"That's disgusting! You are MY wife! He had no right to..." Bronte growled, "God... I could KILL him!"'''

"I know, sweety, please try to calm down..."

"CALM DOWN!?"

"Yes."

"THIS IS INSANE!!"

"I know. Emery is insane."

Bronte bellowed in outrage.

'''Emily grabbed his hand. "Hey, I love you."'''

'''"I..." He stared at her.'''

"I said I love you. You better say it back."

'''"I love you, too," he grumbled. "B-but--"'''

"No buts! I'm okay now. I promise. And we don't have to talk about Emery right now."

"But I--"

"No. Buts."

'''He looked at her, then slowly smiled. "I missed you so much. It's been too long since you've bossed me around."'''

'''She rolled her eyes and smiled back. "You're adorable."'''

"I missed it when you called me that, too."

'''Bronte felt like the happiest person alive. He had his wife back, and there was absolutely nothing that could ruin his mood because he loved her, and he loved Kalesh, and he loved their daughter that wasn't even born yet, and everything was perfect. He missed her little freckles, and her blonde hair, and her laugh, and her annoying nicknames she made for him, and her optimism, and the way she teased her, and not to mention how beautiful she was, and how lucky she made him feel to be able to marry her. Everything was going just right. Emily was out of bed and limping around by the next day, even though Bronte told her she shouldn't be walking around.'''

'''"I'm fine," she told him. "I know you'll catch me if I fall."'''

And he did have to catch her about a thousand times.

Ah, yes, they were going home tomorrow, and everything was going to be perfect!

'''"Bronte?" Elwin whispered. "I... need to talk to you." His face was pale. He obviously had bad news. But Bronte didn't care if his house had just burned down, because he was having the very best day in the world.'''

"What is it, Elwin?"

'''"Um." He took a deep breath. "There's a chance... that your daughter... won't... make it?"'''

'''Bronte's heart dropped. "What?"'''

"I... Emily had so many injuries, and wasn't eating for a while, and was sleeping so much, and the baby isn't... very healthy... and there's a chance... that when she's born... she won't make it..."

Bronte's mouth went dry.

No.

'''That's never happened before... not once in elvin history...'''

'''But... Emily was a human...'''

'''And the baby... wasn't an elf or a human.'''

But why him?

Why did this have to happen to Bronte?

His first daughter...

"So... wh-what percentage?"

'''"What?" Elwin looked at him.'''

"What's the percent chance that she lives?"

'''Elwin bit his lip. "There's... about a thirty percent chance she'll live."'''

The number was like a punch in the stomach.

Thirty percent...

'''"Th-thirty?" Bronte stuttered.'''

Elwin slowly nodded.

'''This was his breaking point.

'''

Biana often went over to Tam's house to swim with he and the dragon.

'''The dragon, ShadowHeart, was a lot nicer than she expected. One day, as they were swimming, Biana was getting cramps, and decided to get out. Tam followed her. "Biana? Are you okay?"'''

'''She winced. "Yeah, I'm fine."'''

'''She was hearing the voices in her head again. She often still did, and just tried to ignore them. She had a strange feeling, and suddenly couldn't breathe, and collapsed.'''

'''Tam yelped. "Biana!"'''

'''Dex took a deep breath. "Dad, I have to tell you something."'''

'''"What is it, Dex?" Kesler asked, the concern showing in his eyes.'''

"I... have a boyfriend."

'''Kesler's eyes went wide. "Oh."'''

'''Dex winced. "Is that bad?"'''

"What? No! Dex, that's great! I'm glad you're figuring yourself out. And it isn't bad to fall in love. I fell in the with Juline. There's no such thing as a 'bad match'."

Dex sighed of relief and hugged his father.

Kesler smiled.

'''Another lie. How long until they would find out?'''

His impartner beeped.

'''He let go of Dex, and looked at it. His eyes widened. "Hold on a minute, Dexter."'''

Dex nodded.

Kesler gave him another quick hug and rushed into his office to answer it.

"Now is NOT a good time," he hissed.

'''Ruy frowned. "She's gone."'''

"WHAT!?"

"Did you move the body or something?"

"No! I left her there to die! She should be gone!"

"I know."

"Emery won't be happy..."

"I... I know... Maybe you shouldn't left her there unauthorized for weeks."

"I didn't. Emery did."

'''Ruy scowled. "How long are you gonna be able to keep this up?"'''

"Forever, apparently."

"You're the leader now--"

"No! Emery is."

'''Ruy growled. "You are absolutely insane."'''

"And you're not?"

"Your Everglen crystal is missing, too."

"I have another one. I poisoned Biana again. And this time, I want you to find Gethen and Haze, AND KILL THEM LIKE I TOLD YOU TO DO LAST TIME, so she doesn't HEAL BIANA!!"

'''Ruy's face went pale. "Y-yes, I'm sorry."'''

'''Kesler and Emery had both been a part of the Neverseen from the beginning. Kesler had pretended to fall in love with Juline, and since she was always off as a member of the Collective, Kesler was able to do just the same amount of disappearing.'''

And Emery was insane.

They were both insane.

'''Infact, they were almost the same person. Almost. They were a split personality. The same person, both part of the Neverseen, and inhabiting the same body, but practically two different people.'''

Kesler had the ability to make elixirs that change your appearance, hence how he could look so different from the perriwinkle-eyed wonder you thought you loved.

Emery was more ruthless.

'''Ruy and the other Neverseen members prefered to call Kesler his other identity, rather than admitting that he was an insane person with two different personalities.

'''

= Two =

Part 6
'''Ruy was watching Gethen. Traitor.'''

'''He was going to kill him. Emery... or Kesler... or whatever he was supposed to call him... would go even more insane if Ruy didn't do as he was told. He was honestly more comfortable with Fintan. In fact, he kinda missed Fintan...'''

'''Ruy had followed Gethen to Atlantis. He seemed to be waiting for someone...'''

'''Then Haze came over. She leaned up and kissed him. They walked hand-in-hand down the road.'''

'''Ruy took a deep breath. All he had to do was kill them. Easy, right?'''

Then, yet again, Gethen was his friend, and he and Haze looked to happy...

Could this be his breaking point?

'''Tam was struggling to hold back tears as he stared at Biana. She seemed to be sleeping peacefully, but that didn't stop him from wondering how she'd gotten poisoned again. The rest of the Vacker family and Linh were all on their way, but for now, it was just him, Biana, Elwin, and Tiergan. He wasn't sure why Tiergan was there, though, or why he was watching Elwin so closely. And... smiling.'''

Tam gasped as Biana's eyes opened.

'''Biana looked around wildly. "Wh-what happened... Tam?"'''

"You were poisoned again..."

'''She noticed he was holding her hand, and quickly whipped away. "Don't touch me right now," she hissed.'''

'''He winced. "Okay..."'''

"It's just the potion affecting her emotions, Tam, she didn't mean it," assured Elwin quietly.

'''Tam nodded. He still felt slightly hurt, but he tried not to think anything of it.

'''

'''Ruy watched from afar as Haze laughed at something Gethen said and grab his hand. Ruy winced. He had to kill them... he was starting to wonder if he could do it.'''

'''If he didn't, Emery would kill him... He took a deep breath and headed into the restaurant. Gethen called her beautiful, saying she had the most beautiful eyes in the world.'''

'''Biana sat there sobbing as the voices came back. She made sure to cry quietly so Tam didn't wake up. He was sitting in the chair by her bed, snoring peacefully.'''

Biana carefully stood and walked out.

'''Elwin jolted Tam awake. "Tam! Tam! Where is Biana?"'''

'''Tam jolted up and looked around. "Wh- Biana? Wh-where is she?"'''

"Oh, no... What am I supposed to tell Alden?"

'''"Tell me what?" Alden asked from the doorway.'''

They both looked over, wide-eyed.

"Alden..."

"Yes? Where is my daughter?"

"Um, we... don't know."

'''"WHAT!?" he exploded.'''

'''"I-I'm sure she'd fine. I'll go check the bathrooms." Elwin hurried away.'''

'''Alsen rubbed his tired eyes and sat by Tam. He groaned. "I feel nauseous..."'''

"I'm sure she's okay," said Tam.

'''"Yeah... I'm sure there's no reason to worry..."

'''

'''Biana bowed in front of Emery. As she looks up, Emery sees her eyes have gone completely black, and he smiles. "It works," he whispers.'''

Kesler Diznee created a poison that takes over a person's mind, controlling them.

The Neverseen had complete control over Biana Vacker.

 

'''Alden was freaking out. "Okay, so, if she's not in the bathroom, and she's not at Foxfire, and she's not at home... THEN WHERE THE HECK IS MY DAUGHTER!?"'''

"I-I don't know," stuttered Tam.

'''Elwin rushed out into the hall. "Tiergan! Oh, thank god you're here... Did you see Biana come by?"'''

"Um, no," Tiergan said slowly.

"Well, you're not much help," he muttered.

'''Tiergan pressed a hand to his heart. "Ouch, Elwin."'''

'''Elwin sighed heavily. "I'm sorry, I'm just stressing out. Biana is missing! What if we can't find her? I mean, where would she even go!? I just--!"'''

'''"Elwin," Tiergan gently stopped him, grabbing his hand. "We'll find her. And don't stress out." Tiergan took both of his hands. "Breathe."'''

'''Elwin took a deep breath, then stared at his feet. "I just... I should've kept a better eye on her... I don't want to be responsible for her disappearance, Tiergan! I... she doesn't deserve..."'''

Tiergan saw that he was tearing up, and pulled him in for a hug.

'''Elwin wrapped his arms around him, kissing his forehead. "Thanks," he whispered.'''

"For what?"

'''"Letting me freak out a little. Alden is freaking out, too. He's going to have to tell his wife... and--" Elwin started to tear up more. His voice was shaking. "I j-just... feel so bad..."'''

'''"Hey, no feeling guilty," Tiergan told him. "I'm serious. None of this is your fault--"'''

'''Just as he was saying this, Alden stormed out of the Healing Center. Elwin pulled away from Tiergan, blushing. "This is insane, Elwin," Alden snapped. "Insane!"'''

"I-I know--" started Elwin

"You should've been watching her! How could you not know where she is!? HOW!?"

'''Elwin gulped. "I'm sorry--"'''

"I want my DAUGHTER back!"

'''Elwin stuttered incomprehensibly. Tiergan stepped in. "Alden, please. I know you're a little flustered--"'''

'''"A LITTLE FLUSTERED!? No! I am not A LITTLE FLUSTERED! I am WORRIED! I am WORRYING! Because there IS a reason to worry, and my daughter could literally be ANYWHERE! Because SOMEONE wasn't doing their job!" He narrowed his eyes at Elwin, who was choking back tears.'''

'''Alden sat down by the door of the room, and stared at the ceiling. He took a few deep breaths, a few tears falling down his face. He closed his eyes, rubbing his face and letting out a groan.'''

'''"Okay," Alden quietly said to himself. "There's no reason to worry. She's probably fine... safe..."'''

'''Tiergan squeezed Elwin's hand. Alden stood. "I'm sorry. I just want my daughter to be okay..." He took a shaky breath. "I was being hasty to blame you, Elwin."'''

"It's okay," Elwin said, trying to shrug it off.

'''"You deserve to freak out more than anyone," Tiergan assured. "And we'll find her. I promise."

'''

 

'''Kalesh sat at the table with Councillor Bronte and Emily. They were having family dinner. It was the first time Kalesh had ever sat at a table with two people that cared about her, and she complimented Emily's cooking at least ten times. She was all smiles the whole time.'''

"Emily?"

'''Emily looked over at Kalesh and smiled. "Yeah, sweety?"'''

"Can I have seconds?"

'''"Sure!" Emily stood and hurried to get her more food. "I wish Bronte liked my cooking as much as you do."'''

"What? I love you're cooking, Em'," said Bronte.

"Not as much as Kalesh, apparently."

'''Bronte looked at Kalesh. "Hm."'''

'''Kalesh gave a bashful smile as Emily set another plate in front her. "Sorry, it's just so good."'''

'''Emily laughed. "Thank you."'''

'''Bronte looked up at Emily hopefully. "Can I have seconds?"'''

'''"No." She pokes him in the stomach playfully. "I don't think you should be having seconds, mister."'''

"Wha- Are you calling me fat?"

'''Emily pressed her lips together. "No..."'''

'''He gave a small smile. "You are."'''

Kalesh snickered.

'''After dinner, there was a knock on the door. Bronte answered it. "Fitz?"'''

"I-I'm here to see Kalesh."

'''Bronte smirked at how nervous he was. "Come in."'''

'''Kalesh leapt off the couch when she saw Fitz and hugged him. "Fitz!"'''

'''Fitz's face reddened. "I... had no one to talk to. Since my s-sister is missing... a-and I wanted to see you."'''

'''Kalesh hugged him harder. "I'm sure they'll find her."'''

'''"My mom cries a lot, and my dad isn't talking very much." He ran a hand through his hair. "I needed to get out of the house." He pulled back from her hug. "So... hi." He smiled shakily.'''

'''She took his hand. "Let's talk in my room." She led him away.'''

'''Bronte squinted. "Emily..."'''

"Yeah, sweety?"

"She's taking a boy to her room."

'''Emily smacked his arm. "They're friends. Isn't it cute?"'''

'''He stared at her. "No."'''

'''Emily smiled. "You're such a dad."'''

'''Bronte lit up. "A good dad?"'''

"I suppose. Kalesh seems to think you're pretty good."

"Really?"

"And I guess you're an okay husband, too."

'''He kissed her cheek. "Thanks."'''

"Any time, Councillor GrumpyPants."

"Don't call me that."

"I can call you whatever I want," she told him.

He gave her a look.

'''She grinned. "So... Fitz and Kalesh?"'''

"No. She doesn't get to have a relationship until she's at least a thousand."

'''Emily snorted. "I won't be around for that."'''

'''Bronte went silent. "Right," he whispered.'''

"Hey, don't get all sad on me. Maybe they'll find a way to make me immortal. I'm already going to live for at least a couple hundred years, since the lost cities have cleaner air, and youth bottles, and--"

"A couple hundred years isn't long enough. I want you to stay here forever."

'''Emily kissed him. "Relax."'''

He scowled.

'''She kissed him again, forcing him to stop scowling. "I love you."'''

'''"I love you, too," he grumbled.

'''

Part 7
'''Elwin kissed Tiergan. "I love you."'''

"I love you, too."

'''"Do you think Biana's gonna be okay?" asked Elwin quietly.'''

"I'm sure..."

"But, what if she isn't okay? What if she's in danger... what if--"

"Stop what-if-ing, okay? You're just making yourself guilty for no reason."

"But--"

'''He cut Elwin with a kiss. "Just relax."'''

'''Elwin blushed and ran a hand through his dark, wild hair. He bit his lip. "I'll try."'''

"Please do."

"How's Tam doing?"

"He's been better," Tiergan whispered.

Tiergan returned home to a crying Tam.

I never wanted to fall in love with anyone ever again, especially if it was going to hurt like this, Tam thought to himself.

'''Linh and Tiergan came into his room to check on him. "Hey. Wylie, Tiergan, and I are worried about you."'''

"I'm f-fine," he sniffled.

'''Tiergan frowned. "I know you love her."'''

'''"I did..." whispered Tam'''

"And you still do. Because she's not gone," Linh quickly jumped in.

'''"She could be! She could be dead!" he argued, tearing up more.'''

"Tam, please don't think like that. This is why I'm so worried about you," said Tiergan softly.

"You shouldn't be worried. It's not like you're my dad," he mumbled.

Tiergan made a face, but didn't say anything.

'''"Tam!" Linh scolded.'''

'''"What!? Just leave me alone..." He looked away so he wouldn't have to see the hurt look on Tiergan's face.'''

'''"ShadowHeart misses you, too," whispered Linh. "If you don't care about us, at least care about your dragon."'''

'''Tam's eyes widened. "No, Linh, I care about you. A lot..."'''

'''Linh was walking away, sniffling. Tam followed her. "Linh--"'''

"You think this isn't affecting me, too? Biana's my best friend, Tam! I m-miss her..."

'''Tam wanted to smack himself. How could he not have cared about his sister's feelings like that? He realized how selfish he was being. He had ignored Linh and been pouting around the house, without noticing how affected she was by it. For the first time, he saw her disheveled hair, her trembling lips, and the dark circles under her eyes.'''

'''He gulped. "Linh..." He pulled her in and hugged her.'''

'''She cried, leaning against him.

'''

'''Tiergan was sitting with Wylie. "Do you think I'm a good parent?" he whispered.'''

'''Wylie nodded. "Of course! You've been an awesome dad!"'''

"Tam... seems to think otherwise..."

"He didn't mean that. He's just sad because he's been thinking about Biana, you know?"

Tiergan slowly nodded, biting his lip.

'''Wylie gave a broad smile. "So, how are you and Elwin doing?"'''

"H-how do you know about that?"

"I saw you guys together in the Healing Center."

'''"Oh." He winced. "And you're okay with it?"'''

'''"Why wouldn't I be?" Wylie looked at him. "You fell in love. That's not a bad thing."'''

'''Tiergan gave a small smile. "I'm glad you think that way, Wylie."'''

'''Wylie nodded. "You're pretty much my dad after all."'''

'''Tiergan hugged him. "That... m-means a lot to me, Wylie, you have no idea..."'''

Wylie hugged back.

 

'''Tam apologized about a thousand times to Linh. Linh told him that it was fine. Wylie had gone off to Prentice.'''

'''Suddenly, there was a knock on the door. Tirgan hurried to answer it. Biana was standing there. "Biana! Oh my god! Where were you!?"'''

"I need to see Tam."

'''"Wha-... of course..." He called, "Tam! Linh!"'''

The twins raced downstairs.

'''"BIANA!" they shouted at the same time, racing to hug her.'''

'''Biana moved back. "Don't. I have to talk to Tam."'''

"What? Biana--"

"I have to talk to you. Now."

'''Tam looked shocked and hurt. "I... I m-missed you."'''

Biana's hard expression didn't change.

"Okay... did something happen? Are you okay?"

'''"I'm fine." She grabbed his arm and pulled him away, dragging him up to his room. She released his arm. "Sit," she demanded.'''

'''Tam sat on the bad, staring up at her, confused. "What is it?"'''

'''"I'm breaking up with you."

'''

'''Meanwhile, at Rimeshire Kesler was having dinner with his family. He smiled when Dex showed him one of his gadgets. He kissed Juline on the cheek before he took his first bite of food.'''

'''Juline smiled. "What was that for?"'''

"Can't I simply kiss my wife because I love her?"

"Uh-oh. What did you do?"

'''Dex snickered. "Nothing!" said Kesler, smiling back.'''

"Yes, you did. You did something."

'''He shrugged. "What makes you think that?"'''

'''Juline flicked snowflakes in his face. Kesler wiped his face.'''

"It's not like I joined a secret organization."

'''Juline's smile froze. "Kesler, not now."'''

"Kids, go to your rooms."

"What!? Kesler, this is not--"

"I'm sorry! Just... ever since I found out you joined the Black Swan, it's like you don't trust me... you didn't trust me enough to tell me that you joined, and I'm still not comfortable with it."

"Your son is part of it!"

"And I wish he wasn't!"

"The Black Swan are good people, Kesler."

'''Kesler sighed. "Okay. Forget I said anything."'''

"I will, because that was ridiculous," said Juline.

'''Kesler took a bite of his food. "The dinner is good."'''

"Thank you."

There was tension in the dining room for the rest of the meal.

'''Dex stared back and forth between his parents.

'''

'''Alden was overjoyed that Biana was back, but when Biana came through the door and he tried to hug her, she pulled away. "Don't," she scowled, storming away.'''

'''Alden was in shock. "Biana!" He raced after her. He was near tears. He didn't understand... he'd missed her so much, and she didn't even want a hug? He stuttered, "S-sweetheart, what's wrong?"'''

'''Biana looked away. "Nothing."'''

"What the- Biana, I haven't seen you in days! You can't just..."

'''Della came into the room. When she saw Biana, she dropped the water goblet she was holding, and it smashed to pieces. She teared up, rushing forward to hug her.'''

'''Biana squirmed out of the hug. "Stop! Just leave me alone!"'''

'''Della burst into hysterics. "What!?"'''

Biana stormed to her room.

'''A few moments later, Fitz burst into the room. "Biana! What the... WHAT IS GOING ON!? Dad told me you made Mom cry! What happened!? Where were you!?" he demanded.'''

'''Biana just rolled her eyes. "None of your business."'''

'''"Did something bad happen? Was it the Neverseen?" he pressed.'''

'''Biana pushed him out of her room and slammed the door. "I don't wanna talk about it! Everyone leave me alone!" she shouted.'''

'''Keefe looked at Dex in disbelief. "I've never seen my parents talk to each other like that," he whispered.'''

'''Keefe took his hand. "My parents did the same thing."'''

'''Dex looked down. "Do you think my dad isn't a very good person?"'''

'''Keefe shook his head. "No, Dex, your dad is a great guy."'''

"Yeah, you're right."

'''Keefe leaned forward and kissed his cheek. "It's okay, I'll help you get through this if it gets bad. I promise."'''

Dex nodded and blushed.

'''Keefe smirked. "Is Diznee blushing?"'''

'''He blushed harder. "Keefe..."'''

'''Keefe kissed him. "You know, you're an amazing boyfriend."'''

'''"I'm the amazing one?" he asked. "You're the one who's... good-looking... and supportive..."'''

'''Keefe snorted. "You're cute."'''

"I'm serious. I... I love you, Keefe."

'''Keefe froze, then started to tear up. "You really mean that?" he whispered.'''

"Of course," Dex said quietly.

'''Keefe looked down. "The only person who's ever said that is my mom... and she... well... she lied..."'''

'''Dex moved closer, burying himself in Keefe's arms. "I'd never lie to you, Keefe," he promised.'''

'''Keefe gulped, blinking back tears. "I love you, too, Diznee," he said softly, pulling him closer and holding him protectively.'''

'''Ro sighed. "You know how lucky you are to be able to fall in love with someone? I never had a choice."'''

'''Keefe looked her. "So, you don't have any feelings for Bo?"'''

"Nope."

"Not even a little bit?"

"Nope."

"That sucks," he mumbled.

'''"Yes, yes it does," she agreed.

'''

Part 8
'''Cassius walks in on Keefe kissing Dex. Keefe tears away from him and looks up at his father, eyes wide.'''

'''Cassius glares at Dex. "Get. Out."'''

Dex looks at Keefe, his eyes filling with tears.

'''Keefe is trembling. "D-dad... I..."'''

'''"I told you not to come back here!" Cassius shouted.'''

"I-I'm sorry," stammered Dex.

"No! Don't be sorry, Dex, I love you!"

Cassius growled, "That's disgusting. YOU'RE disgusting!"

'''"He is NOT!" Dex said defensively, then to Keefe, "I love you, too."'''

'''Cassius stalked closer and grabbed Keefe by the front of his shirt, but Ro stepped forward and shoved him back. "Lay a finger on him, and I swear I'll cut your hand off."'''

'''He didn't flinch. But he slowly released Keefe.'''

'''Keefe gulped. "R-Ro, you don't have to--"'''

"I'm your bodyguard, Keefe. It's my job to protect you. And your boyfriend."

Cassius stormed away, grumbling things under his breath.

'''Ro smiled, showing all of her teeth. "There. He'll leave you alone if he knows what's good for him." Keefe teared up, and Ro frowned.'''

Dex pulled him forward and hugged him.

"Ro?"

"Yeah, Lord Hunkyhair?"

'''Keefe sniffled. "He hates me."'''

'''Dex hugged him harder. "I wish I could share my parents with you. My mom really likes you."'''

'''Keefe gave a half-hearted smile. "She does?"'''

"Yeah. Let's... let's go to my house instead."

Keefe looked at Ro.

'''Ro shrugged. "I don't care. I'll tell your father you're hanging out with blondie."'''

'''"Okay." Keefe brightened, but Dex could still see the sadness in his eyes. Keefe saw the worried look on Dex's face and smirked. He wrapped an arm around him. "No need to worry about me, Diznee."'''

'''Dex blushed. "Are you sure?"'''

"Yeah. I'm sure. Let's go!"

At Dex's house, Rex, Bex and Lex raced around Juline's feet.

'''"Dex brought his boyfriend!" shouted Rex.'''

"Keefe is here?"

'''"Yup," clarified Bex. "And you know what?" she whispered. "I bet their kissing."'''

'''"EW!" shouted Lex. "YOU'RE SO GROSS BEX!"'''

'''"WELL IT'S TRUE!" she shouted back, shoving him.'''

'''"MOM, SHE SHOVED ME!" Lex shoved her back.'''

'''"Hey, stop fighting," said Juline, rolling her eyes and smiling. She flicked snow into the air.'''

'''Bex squealed. "Snow! Snow! Snow!"'''

'''"Later," Juline promised. "But only if you don't fight for the rest of the day."'''

They all nod.

'''"So, Keefe, how are you?" asked Juline, stepping into Dex's room. Dex was showing him a new gadget.'''

'''Dex whirls around. "Mom!"'''

'''Juline smiles. "Don't worry, I won't say anything embarrassing."'''

Dex blushed.

'''Keefe smirked. "Oh, feel free to embarrass him."'''

Dex glared at him.

'''Juline smiled, trying not to tear up. "You two are so--"'''

"Mom," Dex groaned.

"Don't 'Mom' me. Keefe is a nice boy, and I'm glad you two are... together."

"Thanks, Mom."

She gave them one of those cheesy mom smiles, and walked out.

'''Keefe laughed as Dex's face got red. "I like your mom, Diznee."'''

'''"I... yeah. She's pretty great, isn't she?" Dex smiled bashfully.'''

~Meanwhile~
'''Kesler broke open the scroll. It had a familiar symbol stamped on the front of it. An eye. He slowly unrolled it and read it carefully. His hands were shaking a bit. But as he read, a slow smile crept to his lips. Progress was being made. Biana was in the Vacker house, and under his complete control. There was nothing, nothing that could stop him now...'''

'''Except that girl... Kalesh.'''

'''"Kesler!" his wife's voice called. "Sweety, can you answer the door!?"'''

'''Kesler bit his lip and dropped the scroll on his desk. "I'll be right there!" he called back.'''

'''Dex walked into his dad's office. "Dad?"'''

'''It was empty. He was about to leave and ask Juline where he was, when he saw a scroll sitting on his desk. At first he thought nothing of it, but then he spied the symbol on the broken seal. His eyes went wide, and he slowly went over to the desk and picked up the scroll with trembling hands. He peeked inside, reading the first words on the paper.'''

"Lord Kesler Dizznee

We are thrilled to inform you that phase one of Project Herring is complete..."

'''Dex closed his eyes. He didn't want to read the rest... didn't want to believe it.'''

'''Tears flooded his vision, but he desperately gulped them down. No... it couldn't be possible...'''

'''Keefe came into the room. He saw Dex holding a scroll, on the brink of tears, and his eyes widened. "Dex? What's wrong?"'''

'''Dex suddenly broke down, dropping the scroll and covering his face with his hands. Keefe quickly pulled him forward, holding him. "Hey, hey, what happened? Sweety, a-are you okay?"'''

'''Dex shook his head, sobbing, and leaning against Keefe like he was the only thing holding him up. "M-my dad..."'''

"Wh-what happened to your dad?"

'''Dex could only continue to cry, so Keefe leaned down and picked up the scroll. His face went pale. "Oh my god... D-Dex... I..." He shook his head and wrapped his arms around Dex, holding him. Keefe knew exactly how Dex was feeling, and knew that he just needed to be held.'''

'''Dex cried in his chest, feeling broken and betrayed. "My dad... i-is part of the Neverseen," he whispered.

'''

'''Keefe lept Dex away to Havenfield. Sophie was helping Grady brush Verdi's teeth in the pastures. She had a glob of dinosaur slobber on her shirt. "Ugh, Verdi, hold still!" she demanded. Verdi continued to thrash and roar loudly. Grady was trying his best to restrain her. They both looked up and froze when they saw Keefe and Dex. Sophie's face got pale when she saw how hard Dex was sobbing.'''

She quickly moved away from Verdi, and so did Grady, as they rushed over to Dex.

'''If not for Keefe's arm wrapped around him, Dex looked like he was about to collapse. Keefe looked up at Sophie. "H-hey, Foster," he whispered.'''

'''Sophie looked at them. "What happened?"'''

'''"M-my d-d-dad," Dex sobbed. He wasn't able to get the rest of the words out, though. He just buried his face into Keefe's chest.'''

Keefe held him tightly and handed Sophie the scroll.

'''Grady and Sophie stared at it. Grady's eyes darkened. "What!?"'''

Sophie covered her mouth with her hand.

Grady stormed away with the scroll, probably going to show Edaline.

'''Dex continued to cry. "M-my mom d-d-doesn't kn-know y-yet," he managed to say, rubbing his eyes hard to try to get rid of the tears.'''

'''"Oh my gosh... Dex... this is..." Sophie trailed off. "I-I'd hug you, but..." She looked down at her dinosaur-spit-covered tunic.'''

'''Keefe gave a small smile. Then he looked at Dex, and his smile fell again. "I'm sorry, Diznee."'''

'''Dex sniffled, "K-Keefe, I... I d-don't know wh-what to do..." he said quietly, rubbing his eyes harder.'''

'''Keefe hugged him hard. "It's okay. I love you..."'''

'''Keefe blushed when Sophie's jaw fell. "W-wait... are you two... t-together?"'''

'''Dex's face went a little red. "U-um..."'''

'''"Oh my gosh, that's so cute!" She quickly cleared her throat. "Sorry, we should be talking about Dex's parents, and--"'''

'''"You know, I-I don't really want to t-talk about that," whispered Dex. "C-could we do something to... get my mind off of it?"'''

'''"Oh, w-well... we could talk about you and Keefe, then..." suggested Sophie.'''

'''Keefe's face went pink. "Yeah. We're together. But, Foster, you gotta promise not to tell anyone."'''

"Of course," she quickly promised both of them.

"Thanks," Dex mumbled, snuggling against Keefe.

"So, how long have you been together?"

"About a month."

"A whole month!? And no one's found out yet?"

'''Keefe shrugged. "Tam and Linh found out. They're the only other people who know, though."'''

"How did they find out?"

"Umm... Tam saw our first kiss," said Keefe.

'''Keefe saw Dex's eyes brighten and quickly continued the story. "We were hanging out with Linh. Linh's a really nice person, by the way. We hang out all the time, actually. But with Biana going missing and stuff, everyone's been so busy..." He trailed off for a moment, then cleared his throat. "We were having a sleepover, and I... well..."'''

~Flashback~
'''Dex laughed, nudging Keefe. "That's ridiculous! I do NOT like Linh."'''

"You better not," says Tam from the corner of the room.

'''They both jump. "Oh, jeez. I forgot Bangs Boy was in here," says Keefe, rolling his eyes. "You're so creepy."'''

"No, I'm not. I just want you to stay away from my sister."

"I don't even LIKE girls," Dex blurts.

They stare at him, and he turns a bright shade of red.

'''"Wait, I thought you liked Sophie?" says Keefe, confused.'''

'''"I thought so, too," he mumbles. "But I realized we're way better off as friends."'''

'''Keefe smirked. "Are there any guys you like?"'''

'''Dex's face reddened. "Um... n-no... not right now."'''

"You can't lie to an Empath, Diznee."

'''Dex whipped his arm away from Keefe's hand quickly. "I-I..."'''

"Come on, tell me! I promise I won't tell anyone. Is it Fitz?"

"Ew, no," he grumbled.

"Is it... Tam?"

'''"Gross, no!" Dex looked at Tam. "N-no offense..."'''

'''"None taken. I... am going to leave now." Tam walked out.'''

'''"Tell me!" Keefe demanded, grabbing his arm again. "I'll keep guessing random people until your emotions spike."'''

"No, Keefe--"

"Wylie. Jensi? No, it couldn't be him. How old is he? Is he my age? Oop, your emotions spiked. He IS my age! I'll just list all the names of everyone in my level in Foxfire, and I'm sure to get it eventually..."

'''Dex tried to pull his arm away. "K-Keefe..."'''

'''Keefe froze. "Wait. Say that again."'''

"What--"

"My name! Say my name again! Your emotions do something weird when you say my name, but I didn't get a clear reading--"

'''Dex quickly tore away. "Stop it! Please, just..." He sighed and looked down.'''

"Wait... Diznee... is it...? I-is it... m-me...?"

"No!"

'''Keefe stared at him. He blinked. "You... can't lie to an Empath, Diznee," he said quietly.'''

'''Dex buried his face in his hands. "I'm sorry... I know you like Sophie... and I know she likes you back. You guys should just be together already. She's a really nice person."'''

Keefe had gone silent.

'''Dex peeked through his fingers to look at him. "K-Keefe?"'''

'''Keefe pulled Dex's hands away from his face. "Dex... I..."'''

'''Dex blushed, his eyes wide. Before he could think about what the heck he was doing, he leaned forward and kissed Keefe on the lips.'''

'''Keefe dropped Dex's hands, his face going entirely red. He stared at Dex. "D-did y-you just... k-k-kiss me...?"'''

'''Dex was shaking badly, and hurried out of the room, but Keefe went after him quickly, grabbing his arm and pulling him forward, pressing his lips against Dex's and kissing him. Dex let out a startled yelp and kissed back.'''

'''Tam was walking down the hall. He froze when he saw Keefe and Dex kissing. His eyes went wide, and he slowly started to go back down the stairs, but one of the stairs creaked.'''

'''Dex and Keefe quickly scrambled away from each other. Dex's face was bright red and he just stared at the floor.'''

'''Keefe's eyes were wide. "Um. Tam... y-you... won't t-tell anyone about this... will you?"'''

'''"Of course not," promised Tam. He glanced back and forth between Dex and Keefe. Then he smiled. "I guess I don't have to worry about either of you liking my sister," he remarked.'''

~End Flashback~
'''Sophie smiled as Keefe finished telling the story. Dex was smiling, too, and his face was flushed pink.'''

'''Keefe smirked at Dex. "I love you."'''

'''Dex hugged him tightly. "I love you, too."'''

'''Suddenly, Biana leapt in front of them, Tam hanging onto her. "No!" Tam was shouting. He looked like he was on the brink of tears. He also looked really mad... "Biana, you can't do this!"'''

'''"Don't tell me what I can and can't do!" she hissed. She pulled herself away from him and vanished. Tam suddenly collapsed.'''

Sophie screamed.

"Wh-what's going on!? Biana! Biana, y-you're back! Wh-what's wrong with Tam!?"

'''Biana laughed. Sophie whirled around and saw two small dents in the grass where she was standing. "I am back. And I'm here to kill the Moonlark by order of the Neverseen."'''

 

Everyone stared at Biana, in disbelief.

'''Fitz suddenly light-leapt beside her. “Biana! H-how could you!? J-join the Neverseen... especially after what Vespara did to you! And...” He took a shaky breath. “Alvar...”'''

'''Biana hesitated, and her eyes flickered for a moment. Sophie’s eyes widened as she realized that her eyes had been black. “Fitz... there’s something wrong with her eyes.”'''

'''Biana quickly looked away. “No! There’s nothing wrong with my eyes!”'''

'''Fitz’s eyebrows furrowed. “What? Biana, what’s going on?”'''

'''“Nothing! I joined the Neverseen, and I’m here to kill Sophie!”'''

'''She vanished. Dex, Fitz, Keefe, and Sophie all froze.'''

When she appeared again, she was standing right beside Sophie, holding a melder to her head.

Fitz, Keefe, and Dex all shouted, “NO!” at the same time.

'''Sophie held her breath. “Nobody moves, or I shoot her,” warned Biana, glaring at them. Dex was near tears, Keefe’s expression was emotionless, and Fitz looked like he wanted to punch something.'''

'''It was at that exact moment that Grady and Edaline both came out of the house. Edaline’s face was tear-stained, and Grady looked... stressed.'''

'''Edaline screamed when she saw Biana and Sophie. Grady froze.'''

'''“Biana, what do you think you’re doing!?” he shouted. “Get that thing away from my daughter!”'''

“She joined the Neverseen,” Keefe said quietly.

'''Grady looked at Biana with disbelief. “You what-“'''

Biana quickly pulled out a light-leaping crystal and leapt her and Sophie away.

'''Dex burst into tears. “They’re gonna kill Sophie...”'''

'''Edaline fainted. Grady’s eyes widened as he stumbled forward to catch her a split second before she could hit the ground. Then he just sat there in the grass for a moment, holding her.'''

'''He gulped. “Edaline?” he murmured, gently shaking her.'''

'''Her eyes flitted back open. She took one look at Grady and started to cry, burying herself in his arms.'''

'''Fitz stood off to the side, his arms crossed, trembling softly. Keefe was about to say something, but Fitz abruptly pulled out his home crystal and leapt to Everglen, not making eye contact with any of them.'''

'''Biana glared at Team Valiant again. "It's a shame this had to end so soon. You've only just begun your careers as Regents."'''

"You were one of us, Biana! And you still can be! You don't have to do this. We won't fight you."

'''Biana vanished. "If you won't fight me, then you'll lose."'''

'''Sophie tried to follow the sound of Biana's voice, but it seemed to echo around her. She tried to track her thoughts, turning on her enhancing and taking Fitz's hand for extra support, but nothing seemed to be working. It was as if Biana had physically vanished off the face of the Earth.'''

Suddenly, there was a melder floating in the air beside Sophie and everyone froze.

"You're coming with me to Pallidrose."

"No, she's not," said Keefe, still holding Dex.

"And what are you gonna do about it?"

Keefe hesitated.

'''Sandor suddenly barreled outside. "I leave for two minutes, and someone's already trying to kill you!"'''

'''He pulled out a throwing star. Fitz stopped him. "Hey, wait! That's my sister! She's being controlled or something!"'''

"Or something," Sandor snorted.

"You can't hurt her."

"I... you make my job impossible."

"Anyone moves, and I shoot her," Biana hissed again, fumbling with a light-leaping crystal.

"Biana... you don't have to do this," Fitz said quietly.

"Yes, actually, I do. I have no choice, and you can't stop me."

"But... why?"

'''"I. Have. No. Choice." She held the crystal up to the light. The crystal was bright red.'''

Grady, Edaline, Keefe, Dex, Fitz, and Sandor all watched with horror as Biana pulled Sophie away into the light.

'''Right as Biana appeared in front of the hooded figure, she collapsed, crying out in pain. Sophie scrambled away, almost bumping into the person standing there. She was about to inflict, when the person said, "I wouldn't do that if I were you."'''

'''Sophie looked up. She gasped as they pulled down their hood. "Kesler... y-you'll pay for the way you made you're family feel."'''

"It was bound to happen eventually."

"No, it wasn't. You don't have to be part of the Neverseen."

"Oh, really? Like I haven't heard that one before."

'''Sophie looked at Biana, who was curled up, in pain. "Wh-what did you do to her?"'''

"As if I'd tell you."

"Give me one good reason not to inflict on you right now."

"You can't."

"What?"

"You can't."

'''For the first time, Sophie noticed the dome-like structure they were trapped in. "Wh... what is this?"'''

"It's a giant ability restricter. Like the one my son made. Except this is where you're going to spend the rest of your life."

'''Sophie tried to inflict on him, but only succeeded in a tiny spark from her forehead, and the worst headache she'd ever felt. She fell to the metallic floor, clutching her head in pain.'''

"Of course, it doesn't effect me. I'm Talentless. There's no way out of this one, Miss Foster."

'''Sophie could only muster a groan of response. When the pain finally died down, her vision was hazy, and Kesler was gone. She crawled over to Biana. "Biana?"'''

'''Biana shuddered and slowly got to her knees. "I-I'm okay."'''

"You don't look very okay..."

"I'm s-so sorry, Sophie! I'd never do that to you. I didn't want to do that to you. They were controlling me..."

"How?"

'''"I-I'm not sure." She scratched the back of her neck. "Fitz looked so... betrayed," she whispered.'''

"They'll find a way to get us out of this," Sophie whispered.

Part 9
Meanwhile, Keefe, Dex, and Fitz had hailed Mr Forkle, who immediately rushed over to Havenfield.

Forkle rubbed his temples, obviously not taking this new information well.

'''"So, you're saying the Neverseen... has Sophie," he mumbled in disbelief. "And... Kesler is a member of the Neverseen."'''

Dex looked away at the mention of his father.

'''Grady's eyes looked darker than usual. "You'll get her back. And if you don't, I will."'''

'''Forkle took an uneasy step back. "We will get her back."'''

'''"How?" Fitz demanded. "How are we going to save her? We have no idea where she's being held, we have no idea whether my sister is okay--"'''

"You're sister was holding a melder to Sophie's head," Keefe said, holding Dex close and avoiding eye-contact with Fitz.

"I know she did. She was... being controlled or something."

'''Dex sniffled. "Do you think my dad is being controlled?" he asked quietly.'''

'''Keefe winced. "Maybe..." he lied, even though he knew it wasn't possible.'''

Dex seemed to brighten a little, but not enough.

'''"What do you think they're doing to her right now?" Fitz said quietly.'''

'''"Let's... try not to think about that," Mr Forkle said quietly. "May if we give them something else, we can get Sophie back..."'''

'''"We'll give them whatever they want! Anything at all! Just get her back!" Grady demanded.'''

'''Meanwhile, at Rimeshire, Edaline was breaking the news to Juline. Juline was in denial.'''

"No, that's impossible. My husband would never do that."

"Juline, I'm so sorry..."

"Those people are monsters! Kesler isn't one of them. There... has to be a misunderstanding."

"I wish there was... but... the Neverseen has Sophie."

"They... Eda, I'm so sorry..."

"Juline..."

"I'm fine, Edaline! My husband is a good person!"

'''Edaline looked away. "Dex is at Havenfield."'''

'''Juline suddenly burst into tears. "Oh my god... this can't be happening," she croaked through tears.'''

Edaline wrapped her in a hug.

'''"I-is Dex okay?" Juline managed to choke out.'''

"Keefe is keeping him calm..."

'''Grady was pacing back and forth, tearing his hands through his hair. He felt a hand on his shoulder and turned to se Edaline and Juline.'''

'''Edaline pulled Grady forward, hugging him. "We'll get her back, Grady."'''

"I... I know... I just feel like I should be doing something... anything! I can't just sit around all day while the Black Swan promises to take care of everything!"

"You're not sitting around. You're pacing. Please, Grady, just... don't do anything reckless."

"Like what?"

She gave him a look.

'''He sighed. "I'm sorry. I'm not helping very much, am I?"'''

'''Edaline bit her lip, blinking hard. "I'm just..."'''

Grady held her tighter.

'''Edaline broke down in his arms. "We c-can't lose her..."'''

'''Sophie kicked the metallic wall angrily. How was this even possible? How... She looked at Biana, who was sitting on the floor, hugging her knees to her chest.'''

'''Suddenly, someone light-leaped in front of them. Biana scrambled to her feet. The figure in the black cloak faced them. Their voice was strange and distorted as it told them, "How are you enjoying your stay?"'''

"You locked us in a metal dome and took our abilities. There isn't much to enjoy."

Biana stayed silent, staring at the floor.

'''The person's hood crinkled as they turned to face Biana. "Someone's being awfully quiet."'''

"You made me hurt my friends," she whispered.

"Ah, that's why. Well, would you like us to make things more comfortable here for you? Maybe we can light a nice warm fire in here for you."

"No thanks," Sophie mumbled.

"No? Well, that's good. I'm not a pyrokinetic. I'm a Phaser. Well, in this dome, I'm Talentless, like you. But, you know what I mean."

"A Phaser?"

"The Neverseen has more members than you realize, Sophie."

"How many?"

'''The figure cackled. "A lot."'''

Sophie gulped.

"Anyways, I came to tell you that the Black Swan is willing to pay a ransom to get you back. They're actually willing to give us anything we want, just for you. What do you think we should ask for?"

Sophie didn't say anything.

"You could ask for some sanity," Biana grumbled.

'''The figure cackled again. "My, aren't you a feisty one! I was thinking of asking for one of the Collective members instead. Then we could do whatever we want with them! Since the Collective seems to know more than you do for some reason. It's like they don't trust you with vital information. Such a pity."'''

'''The Collective. Sophie tried not to imagine Juline, Tiergan, or Mr. Forkle in the hands of the Neverseen. Especially Juline...'''

"Kesler wants Juline, which, no surprise there. But the rest of us are rooting for that Granite guy. Ya know, the telepath? Whoever he is..."

"H-how did you know Juline was part of the Collective?"

"Because her husband works with us? I mean, how do you think we keep getting so many steps ahead of you!? Kesler has been giving us endless information ever since he found out that his wife was an important member of the Black Swan! But, of course, Juline doesn't tell him everything."

'''Sophie felt herself beginning to panic. How much did they know? How had they previously used that information against them? What exactly had Juline told Kesler?'''

"I think we're taking that Granite guy. Maybe we'll torture him a bit for fun. Probe his mind... and maybe even break it after he becomes of no use to us anymore."

"You're a monster," she told the person, her voice wavering.

'''Tiergan's face went pale. "Me?"'''

'''Magnate Leto nodded slowly, not able to make eye contact with him. "We'll... figure something out. I won't let them take you. I'll... figure something out."'''

'''Tiergan blinked. "There may not be a way out of this, Leto..."'''

"So we just let them kidnap you?"

"I can always erase my mind."

Leto looked away.

"If this is the only way to get Sophie back, then I'll do it. We have no idea where they've taken her, or what they're planning to do to her."

'''Leto looked at his desk. "I--"'''

Keefe suddenly came into Magnate Leto's office, and Leto never got the chance to finish his sentence.

'''He cleared his throat. "Mr Sencen, what are you doing here?"'''

"Ditching class. I already knew I was coming here anyways, so... here I am."

'''Keefe's hair didn't look as glamorous as usual, and he as if he hadn't slept in a while. "Any progress on getting Foster back?"'''

'''Tiergan said yes at the same time Leto said no. They looked at each other. Keefe sighed. "So..."'''

"The Neverseen wants me to take her place."

"What?"

"They sent us a note."

"Tell them they can't have anyone. Tell them that if we don't get her back, I'm recreating the Great Gulon Incident in their hideout."

Neither of them smiled.

'''"You can't just let them torture Tiergan!" Keefe shouted.'''

"I fear I don't have a choice, Mr Sencen."

'''He looked away. "You'd really do that?"'''

"For Miss Foster and Miss Vacker."

'''Keefe bit his lip. "I feel like there should be another way."'''

'''"There should," he agreed. "But I'm willing to make the sacrifice if there isn't."'''

Keefe cringed at the word "sacrifice."

'''"How's Mr Diznee doing?" asked Leto, breaking the uncomfortable silence that followed.'''

'''"He'll be okay," Keefe said quietly. "He's stronger than people think."'''

'''Leto nods carefully. "And... Mr Vacker...?"'''

'''"Is a mess. He's refusing to come out of his house. I overheard some people at lunch saying he was gonna be an only child or something... and I guess it's best he stays home right now." Keefe scratched the back of his head.'''

"And... how are you doing in all of this?"

'''He teared up a little. "Um. I'm fine."'''

'''Tiergan looked away. Leto stared at his desk.'''

"You're... excused to go back to class," Leto says quietly.

'''At lunch, Keefe noticed that Marella's clothes were a little more rumpled than usual. She sighed heavily. "Man, I really hope Sophie's okay."'''

"You and me both," mumbles Keefe, holding Dex's hand.

The usual group of friends was slightly more awkward than usual, like they didn't know what to say without Sophie, Fitz, and Biana there.

"I can't believe the Black Swan is just handing over Tiergan like that," mumbled Dex.

"Tiergan was the one who agreed to it. He wasn't happy with it, obviously, but he agreed. It's like they know we'd do anything to get Foster back, so they're making it as difficult as possible," Keefe added.

'''Dex looked down. "I c-can't believe my dad is part of it..."'''

"I know, me neither."

"But, he's still your dad. So, maybe he's not as bad as you think. Maybe he's doing what Keefe did," suggested Marella.

'''Dex gulped. "Maybe..."'''

'''But that made no sense. He knew Marella was just trying to make him feel better.'''

'''Suddenly, Maruca and Linh sat down with them. They were talking. Linh looked sad.'''

'''"How's your brother?" asked Keefe.'''

'''Linh looked away, her delicate features scrunching up with tears. "H-he's not coming to school. Tiergan's with him, though, so, he'll be okay," she said softly. It sounded more like she was trying to assure herself.'''

Maruca hugged her.

Linh took a deep breath and hugged back.

"Well," started Keefe, attempting to lighten the mood, "They'll be back soon, right? And that's hat matters. Sophie and Biana will be safe soon."

'''Everyone seemed to brighten a little bit at that, even Dex. Keefe gave a half-hearted smirk, kissing his cheek. Dex blushed. Everyone seemed to smile at that. Marella even laughed briefly.'''

Maybe everything was going to be okay...

'''Mr Forkle had agreed to meet Kesler at Havenfield. Alden, Della, Grady, and Edaline stood by Forkle, watching as Kesler leapt in front of them. He was holding Biana by the arm. Biana was crying. Alden's eyes widened. Della looked like she was going to cry.'''

'''Grady's eyes went dark. "Where is my daughter?" he demands.'''

'''Kesler smiled. "Patience, Lord Ruewen."'''

Edaline grabbed Grady's hand, squeezing it so hard that his hand kinda hurt...

"Where's Granite?"

"Right here," Granite says, stepping forward from behind the group.

Kesler pulls out a melder and holds it to Biana's head.

'''Della covers her mouth with her hand. Alden's face pales.'''

'''Granite steps forward. "Let her go."'''

'''Kesler twitches, smiling. "If you have any weapons on you right now, I suggest you take them out of your pockets and place them on the ground."'''

Granite closes his eyes and pulls a melder out of his pocket, placing it on the ground.

"And take off that ridiculous disguise," he demands.

'''Granite pulls a vial out of his pocket. It's full of black liquid. He opens it, coughing it down. Rather than turning into Tiergan, he goes into a coughing fit, and after he finally recovers, he looks around wildly. "Wh... where am I?" he mumbles, his eyes wide and fearful.'''

'''Kesler growls. "He wiped his memory!?"'''

'''Granite sits in the grass, confused. He looks at Kesler.'''

'''Kesler angrily shoots Biana with the melder and throws her down on the grass next to Granite. "Take her! I have what I need."'''

'''Grady's eyes lock onto Kesler's. Kesler suddenly holds the melder to his own head. Della and Alden rush over to Biana. Alden lifts her into his arms. She groans.'''

Edaline squeezes Grady's hand harder, looking away from Kesler as he collapses.

'''Grady stops. Then he suddenly breaks down, crying in his hands. Everyone watches as his body shakes with sobs. Edaline wraps her arms around him, in tears.'''

Where was Sophie?

'''Biana opens her eyes. Della and Alden hug her tightly, crying. Biana hugs them back.'''

Mr Forkle pulls out his impartner to call Elwin, not able to looks at Grady and Edaline.

Alden and Della watch as Elwin flashes a bunch of orbs of light around Biana's head, giving her elixirs.

Elwin looks over at Grady and Edaline, biting his lip.

"Sophie is still... with the Neverseen," Mr Forkle says quietly.

'''Tiergan is sitting on the ground still. Mr Forkle kneels by him. "Tiergan?"'''

'''He looks up at Forkle, confused. "That's... my name," he says quietly.'''

He nods, then seems to tear up a little.

'''Kesler groans. He's still laying on the ground.'''

'''Grady's head snaps up. Nobody moves for a moment as Kesler wobbles to his feet. He blinks slowly. He looks around. For a moment, everyone sees a glimpse of the old Kesler as his soft periwinkle eyes study everyone around him, but it disappears quickly as he suddenly pulls out a crystal and leaps away. Grady's teeth clench.'''

'''"Biana?" Fitz shouts. He is standing in the dining room, his eyes wide with disbelief.'''

Biana rushes forward and hugs him, crying.

'''Fitz hugs back. "Wh... are you okay? What did they do to you? Wh-where's Sophie?"'''

"Th-they still have her..."

"What are they doing to her? What did they do to you? Will she be okay?"

"I-I don't know... they put us in this strange dome... and we couldn't use our abilities. it was like this huge ability restricter. Sophie had a headache, and... it felt so weird. I was... Talentless."

'''Fitz's eyes darkened. "I have to get her back."'''

"By yourself?"

"Yes! Neither the Black Swan or the Council are doing anything about it! I'll confront the Neverseen myself."

"Fitz, that's crazy... you can't do that!"

"Yes, I can," he said.

'''She started to tear up. "I'm... gonna go visit Tam."'''

'''Fitz made a face. "Alright."'''

'''"Please don't try to fight the Neverseen by yourself," she says quietly. She hurries away.'''

'''Tiergan gasps. "Biana!"'''

'''"I need to see Tam!" she exclaims, tears filling her eyes.'''

'''"Y-yes! Of course! Tam!!" he calls, stumbling up the stairs.'''

'''Linh slowly comes to the top of the stairs. She gasps, covering her mouth with her hand. "Biana!"'''

'''There's a loud crash coming from upstairs, then Biana sees Tam lean over the railing of the stairs to see if it's really her. Tam's eyes go wide, and he flies down the stairs. He stops at the bottom step, staring at her.'''

Biana steps forward and falls into his arms, crying softly.

'''Tam holds her, unable to say or do anything. His eyes burn with tears. "B... Biana?"'''

'''Biana hugs him as tightly as she can. "Tam, I'm s-so sorry..."'''

'''There's a long silence. Biana looks up and sees tears streaming down his face. "I thought I'd never see you again," ha manages to say finally, his voice squeaking a bit.'''

'''Biana sniffles. "I'm sorry--"'''

"D-don't be sorry... wh... what did they do to you? A-are you okay?"

'''"I'm fine... I promise... are... are you okay?" she asks, looking at the bags under his eyes and his messy hair.'''

'''"I'm okay..." he said, his voice giving a non-convincing squeak. Biana had to giggle a little at it. Tam's face reddened. "I'm so glad you're okay," he whispers.'''

'''Before he can say anything, she leans up and kisses him. His eyes go wide. He kisses back.'''

After a moment, Tiergan clears his throat.

'''Biana pulls away, smiling bashfully. Tam stutters incomprehensibly, blushing.'''

'''Linh coughs. "Um, I think I'd like to hug Biana now."'''

'''"Oh my gosh! Linh! Yeah!" Biana rushes over to Linh and hugs her.'''

Tam stands there awkwardly, fidgeting.

Linh rolls her eyes, pulling him into the hug.

Sophie sits in the ability-restrictor, focusing all of her concentration on a tiny little crack on the side of the dome, taking in as much energy as she can and preparing to release it.

'''Suddenly, a cloaked figure appeared in the center of the dome, and Sophie released every bit of energy that she possibly could. The figure collapsed, and Sophie's head was fuzzy with a blistering headache. She managed to scramble to her feet and go over to the figure, taking the light leaping crystal that had fallen from their hand when they collapsed, and using it to leap away.'''

She didn't have enough time to think about the consequences of leaping to an unknown destination with weak leaping concentration, she just knew that she had to get out of there as fast as possible.

She appeared in front of Rimeshire, which meant that the person she stole the crystal from was Kesler, but she didn't have enough time to process much else before she collapsed.

'''Dex, Juline, Edaline, Grady, and Elwin were all surrounding her bed when she woke up. Edaline was in tears, and barely gave Sophie time to think before pulling her forward and wrapping her in a hug. Sophie weakly hugged back. "Wh-what happened?" she mumbled through the shoulder of Edaline's dress.'''

Sophie was smothered with more people hugging her before she got her answer.

'''"You were faded!" Dex exclaimed.'''

"Faded?"

"I was s-so worried... you were i-in front of my house! H-how did you get to my house!?"

"I... stole your dad's light-leaping crystal," she said quietly.

'''He looked away. "Oh."'''

'''Grady and Edaline continued to hold her. When they finally let Sophie pull away, their eyes were watery.'''

"You've got to stop doing things like this to us, kiddo," Grady half-teased, wiping his eyes.

"Sorry," she whispered.

'''Edaline shook her head. "I'm just so glad you're safe now."'''

'''Eventually, things seemed to go back to normal. Well, as normal as they could be.'''

'''When Sophie found out that Fitz was dating Kalesh (yeah, remember her?), she was kind of annoyed, but then decided that it was for the best. Dex swore to stop whatever his father was planning next, and Keefe promised to stick by his side and help him do it.'''

'''Sophie sat in her room, thinking about everything that had happened to her, ad more importantly, about the fact that the Neverseen was in possession of a giant ability-restricter. Maybe right now it had a few cracks, but eventually they could fix it, and who knows what kinds of things they'd be able to do.'''

Back at Foxfire, Sophie had plenty of work just waiting to get done, and she also remembered that she was a Regent, and had so many other responsibilities to get back to.

The thought of all of it overwhelmed her, so she decided to go outside and sit under Calla's tree, Sandor close-by, and, for once, she was thankful for the 7-foot tall goblin to be at her side as she caught one of the falling panakes leaves in her head and held it close.

She took a deep breath, closing her eyes.

Maybe everything would be okay...

'''Elwin looked at Tiergan, blinking back tears. "You mean he really doesn't remember who I am?"'''

Forkle shook his head, avoiding eye-contact.

'''Wylie was in tears. "He has to remember me! He has to!" He stepped closer, taking Tiergan's arm gently. "D-Dad?"'''

'''Tiergan shook his head slowly. "I... I'm sorry..."'''

"There has to be a way to bring the memories back!"

"There might be," Mr Forkle said quietly.

"Wh-what about my dad?"

"Prentice..."

"Maybe seeing him will make him remember."

'''Prentice knelt in front of Tiergan. Tiergan sat up, looking at him. "P... Prentice?"'''

"Do you remember me, Tiergan?"

'''There was a moment of hesitation in his eyes. Then he blinked.'''

He blinked again, his eyes locked onto Prentice's.

Everyone seemed to be holding their breath.

'''"I..." Tiergan mumbled.'''

'''"Do you remember me?" he asked again, leaning closer to put a hand on his shoulder.'''

There was another beat of silence before Tiergan suddenly leaned forward and pressed his lips against Prentice's.

Everyone gasped.

Prentice froze.

'''Elwin's jaw fell. He hurried away.'''

'''Tiergan covered his face with his hands. "I can't believe I kissed you..."'''

"It's alright, Tiergan. It's fine."

"In front of Elwin!"

'''Prentice looked away. "I'm sure he'll understand. You... weren't in your right mind."'''

"But I was! I got my memory back, took one look at you, and kissed you! Do you think...?"

"Do I think what?"

"What if I really do like you....?"

"Tiergan!"

'''He flushed pink. "I-I'm just saying! Maybe I do..."'''

'''"Well, do you?" Prentice asked.'''

"I don't know!"

"Well I don't know, either!"

"I think I'm in love with you!"

"Me, too!"

'''"What!?" Tiergan stood up.'''

'''Prentice leaned back. "I-I..."'''

They stared at each other for a few moments.

'''"What about Elwin?" Tiergan whispered.'''

"I... don't know."

"What!?"

"I don't know! I don't know what to do!"

"Me neither!"

"Let's just do nothing, then."

'''"Nothing!?" Tiergan shouted in disbelief.'''

"Why are you getting so mad at me!?"

'''"Why did you have to fall in love with me!?" Tiergan was throwing his arms around as if he was trying to make a point, his hands curling and uncurling, pointing to him.'''

'''"Why did you kiss me!?" Prentice fired back.'''

"I wasn't in my right mind."

"But a couple minutes ago, you just said--"

"Just leave me alone!"

'''"Wh-what?" Prentice's face twisted with confusion.'''

'''"I said leave me alone! I can't handle this right now." Tiergan turned away.'''

Prentice stood up and stormed out.

'''A moment later, Elwin slowly came into the room. He shuffled his feet awkwardly. "So... how are you and Prentice?" he mumbled, looking down.'''

'''Tiergan stepped toward him. "Elwin, I'm really sorry."'''

"I know... I... forgive you. But... there's nothing going on between you and Prentice, right?"

'''"Of course not!" Tiergan exclaimed quickly, taking his hand.'''

"Okay... well, Wylie wants to talk to you."

"Oh. Elwin, I--"

"I said it's okay, Tiergan. Please, just go talk to Wylie."

'''Tiergan dropped his hand. "Okay... I love you."'''

'''Elwin gave a small smile. "I love you, too."'''

'''Tiergan opened the door, and immediately got pummeled with hugs by Wylie. Tiergan laughed, hugging back.'''

"I'm so glad you're okay," Wylie told him, closing his eyes, never wanting to let go.

"Yeah, me, too, Wylie. I'm sorry about, uh, Prentice."

'''Wylie snorted. "Are you kidding? The look on Dad's face was priceless! Just... don't do that again."'''

"I won't, trust me."

(and they all lived happily ever after :D) THE END