Gears of War - Shattered World[FF][ACT III - Chapter 7 posted!][Page 118]

[SKORGE]

There's more....... you've planned for Darrius?

Like what? A ravaging group of husky stranded-to-be criminals that raid him of his supplies?

[RaKais]

Depends if I decide to let him survive the Hammer Blasts.

[SKORGE]

Oh well, obviously he'll survive. No matter how much you say that, at the end of the day... there'd be no story without him. And I don't see you cutting him out just right then and there, that'd make no sense. To establish his character and then have him die out of nowhere, without a climax in sight...

I'm onto your games..... but I fear for Kurt, that is where the true deceit hides.

[RaKais]

I almost have a new chapter up. It's a little on the short side but it sets up the Act finale quiet nicely indeed... Raises the stakes, so to speak

[SKORGE]

.... Post it up when you can... I have a feeling your going to kill Kurt just because I said that...

[RaKais]

.... Post it up when you can... I have a feeling your going to kill Kurt just because I said that...

You are going to be... quite surprised...

Who knows. I'm really in a writing mood (even though it's quarter to 4 in the morning here) and I may even finish up the chapter after, just so you can see

[RaKais]

Okay, I know this chapter is pretty short compared to the usual length (It's 200 words under the 1500 minimum I set myself but whatever). It sets the finale quite nicely I think. Raises the stacks and certain issues are resolved.

Chapter 8

Corren City
1 Day and 19 Hours until Hammer of Dawn deployment.

“What the hell are you doing here?” Was all Kurt could say as he paced back and forward around a room usually reserved for board meetings.

Darrius leaned back in his chair and stared up at his former friend with a hint of a smile on his face.

Kurt, for the second time in his life, hadn't been able to believe his eyes as Darrius stumbled through the previously barricaded hospital entrance. He had looked a mess and he stunk like sh*t. There was a wild look in his eyes and Kurt had no doubt Darrius had seen some unsettling things during his journey. Question was why he had made the trip in the first place. He had been safer where he was...

But that didn't matter now. Here he was, after a quick (and much needed) shower, Kurt was ready to get some answers.

He wasn't alone either, the remaining Gears in his squad stood nearby, listening intently with interest.

“What? No love for an old friend?” Darrius said quietly.

Kurt's fists clenched along with his jaw.

“Answer the f*cking question. Why does everything have to be difficult with you?”

“Truthfully? I came here to get my family out... and anyone else I could along the way.”

Andy stepped forward at this point.

“One man? Are you serious?” He said pointing at Darrius. “Are you telling me all they could spare was one lousy f*cking guy?”

“I don't know, Andy, but they must have had their reasons...” Kurt said, trying to reason with him.

“Actually,” Darrius interjected. “No one knows I'm here so... technically. They didn't send anyone and with just over a day to go till we all fry, they won't be sending anyone.”

Andy stood dumbstruck before cursing loudly and backing away, shaking his head.

“Un-f*cking-believable...”

“What do you mean, no one knows you are here?” Kurt asked, arching one eyebrow.

“Exactly how it sounds, Kurt.”

“...So does that mean you are technically a deserter?”

“I don't know. Maybe. It depends...,” Darrius scratched at his chin. “Marcus Fenix knows I'm here.”

There was a general muttering around the room the moment his name was mentioned.

“Marcus Fenix let you go on this suicide mission?” Kurt said slowly, obviously surprised. “That seems unlike him. He looks like a “by the book” kinda guy.”

“It doesn't matter,” Darrius said standing up, his tone instantly hardening. “Have you seen my dad? You were deployed with him. How about my family?”

Kurt could understand Darrius wanting to get to the point. They didn't have long left to get away but the way he was totally ignoring everything but what he was after really suddenly got on Kurt's nerves.

“You just can't stop, can you?” Kurt said, raising his voice. He stepped up to Darrius, who naturally stood his ground. “All you give a sh*t about is yourself and those in your immediate circle. What about our fellow Gears here? Or the civilians in this hospital? You travelled all this way just to save those closest to you, didn't you?”

Darrius stared straight into his former best friend's eyes for a few solid seconds before turning away.

“I don't have time for you, Kurt. I haven't got long to have a look around before-,” Darrius only got halfway through his sentence before a hand grabbed him by the shoulder and spun him around.

A fist slammed into the side of his jaw, almost knocking him off his feet. He stumbled back, falling over the chair he had been sitting on. Rising slowly to his feet, he glared menacingly at Kurt.

“That one was free,” Darrius said, wiping his hand across his split cheek. “The next one is going to cost you.”

Kurt held up a hand to the other Gears as they made to spring into action to split them up. They stayed back but kept hands wavering near their side-arms.

“I'm not letting you screw things up. We don't have time to go galavanting around this city ghosting after phantoms, okay? Same thing happened with Sarah. All common sense went out the window when she called you back on E-Day and we almost died!”

The moment the words were out of his mouth, Kurt knew he had made a mistake. Darrius' golden eyes flared with anger, igniting the terrible torment he had been turning on himself for over a year now but Kurt couldn't back down now.

“Yeah, I said it, Darrius. You are reckless and you endanger everyone close to you. Sarah, Clay, me, the rest of your squad. So fine, you want to fight? Bring it. You may be my best friend, Darrius but I refuse to let you make the same mistakes you made last year. It's time someone knocked some sense into you.”

The small voice at the back of his mind told him this was a little bit childish but sometimes, you just had to fight fire with fire.

Darrius slowly advanced on him.

“Kurt. I don't care for the outcome of this but I warn you,” Darrius said, stepping within arms reach of Kurt who raised his fists. “If you ever mention Sarah to me again, you will regret it.”

“I know.”

Then, faster than Kurt could ever hope to react, Darrius punched him straight in the solar plexus. Kurt's breath exploded out of his lungs and his vision instantly blurred as his eyes watered. Darrius grabbed him by the back of his shirt and threw him into a nearby wooden cabinet which shattered into a shower glass shards and splinters.

“You really think I'm that sort of person, Kurt?” Darrius said, letting his arms fall to his side, his anger subsiding. “If you had let me finish what I was going to say, you would have then heard me talk about getting everyone in this hospital out of the blast zone because I know of a way.”

Kurt scrabbled at the wall trying to support himself as he got to his feet.
“I-I just... I just... I don't know who you are anymore, Darrius,” Kurt said breathlessly. “You've changed so much in the last year. I don't know what to believe... and I'm still really f*cking angry at you for before. I probably didn't have to start this fight... b-because I know you'd win... but... but I can't just let you do what you want, the way you want. Not when there are lives at risk.”

“Believe this,” Darrius said, extending his open hand. Kurt actually flinched. “I'm sorry about before, okay? I didn't come here just for myself. I came here to make up for my mistakes... that and I couldn't sit around if I could do something to help. You know me...”

Kurt looked suspiciously at the sign of peace before him but his expression softened and he grasped Darrius' hand with his own.

“Did you really have to punch me?” Darrius said.

“To be fair, you did deserve it,” Kurt said, smirking. “Now, you need to meet my team and then there's someone you'll be glad to see. I'll accept your thanks later.”

Kurt motioned for Andy to step forward, ignoring Darrius' confused look.
“This is Andy, my second in co-.”

There were interupted by raised voices.

“You can't go in there, ma'am!” That was Rogers, the Gear he had assigned to keep watch on the civilans.

“Unhand me! You will not stop me seeing him, I saw him go in there!”
Everyone turned to the commotion outside and several of the Gears pulled their side-arms out of their holsters.

“What is going on!” Kurt called out, striding towards the door.

It burst open as he reached it, almost bowling him over.

Darrius eyes widened in shock at the sight.

“I told you there was someone you'd be glad to meet,” Kurt said, nursing his shoulder.

“... Mum?” Darrius whispered.

Now! Prepare yourself for the act finale!

[Croswynd]

Dammit, RaKais, I wrote a -whole- nother chapter just to catch up to you. And now you spring this?

GAAAAAAAAH!!!!!!

But I liked it. XD

The conversion from enemies to friends was a little abrupt, though. Still, I guess I was just reading really, really fast. The characterization you're doing here is definitely awesome.

And that last sentence. Oooooooh, suspense. Stupid cliffhangers, gaaaah!

[RaKais]

It was intended to be abrupt. A moment of realisation, if you will. I wanted you all to think Darrius was going beat the turd out of Kurt but then he shows he isn't as... unhinged as you all think. So you basically learn as Kurt does

As for the that last sentence... you think that's bad?

Wait till you read the next Chapter! *Evil laugh*

P.S. You won't catch up to me! Never! *Louder evil laugh*

[Croswynd]

I'll catch you, villain! The hero always triumphs in the end!

[RaKais]

Jokes on you! I'm an Anti-Hero!

[Croswynd]

You win this round. -.-

Go read my new chapter, now, ya joker.

[RaKais]

*salutes* on my way!

[SKORGE]

Alright, the BOTH of you post ANOTHER chapter, while the rest of us struggle to get the first sentence out!?

As for the chapter, RaKais, I think it was great. Although if I could point out anything at all, I'd say it was sort of odd how they started the conversation as former friends, then came a quick scuffle, and back to friendship... kind of quick, don't you think?

[RaKais]

Alright, the BOTH of you post ANOTHER chapter, while the rest of us struggle to get the first sentence out!?

As for the chapter, RaKais, I think it was great. Although if I could point out anything at all, I'd say it was sort of odd how they started the conversation as former friends, then came a quick scuffle, and back to friendship... kind of quick, don't you think?

Well, it started off quite tense, then a scuffle, then realisation and then back to friendship

I know what you mean and the fact it's almost 5AM probably doesn't help but my next chapter will make up for it, I promise

[Jay the Arbiter]

You were up till 5AM?

[EdieKaye]

Great chapters Ra. It's getting pretty close to the hammer strikes, I can't wait to see Darrius' plan to get them out. Nice cliffhanger..what about his dad??

[RaKais]

Great chapters Ra. It's getting pretty close to the hammer strikes, I can't wait to see Darrius' plan to get them out. Nice cliffhanger..what about his dad??

Now that would be telling

[Croswynd]

Where's my chapter, RaKais? :P

[RaKais]

Where's my chapter, RaKais? :P

I got waylaid! I am typing as we speak. It's going to be my biggest chapter yet and I'm going to work into overdrive to get it finished.

[RaKais]

The Finale! It's approaching! Get ready for an awesome shock!

[Croswynd]

So you've said! I eagerly await your words!

[SKORGE]

Turns out he kills everyone and everything and we're left to read a semi-Twilight rant for the second half of the chapter.

[Croswynd]

"So he eats the baby out of her uterus? And everyone's fine with that?!"

[RaKais]

Turns out he kills everyone and everything and we're left to read a semi-Twilight rant for the second half of the chapter.

You actually made me laugh out loud there SKORGIO! Haha!

[SKORGE]

Laugh now, but you know you were thinking about it.... and Cros is getting a little too into it...

[RaKais]

I think he summed up one of my reactions in the blandest way possible without swearing or insults

[SKORGE]

*Note to self, send Twilight pictures to RaKais entitled "4 u babe"....*

Post a Twi-chapter-thing, NAOW!

[RaKais]

It's 6AM here. I've stayed up most of the night typing this.

It's going to be delayed for a few more hours. I need sleep.

Do not fear! It is almost ready!

[that one guy]

"So he eats the baby out of her uterus? And everyone's fine with that?!"

Worst ending to a Thanksgiving story Ever

[RaKais]

My finale is almost 5000 words... It's almost done but it's probably going to be another 1000 words. Should I split it into two parts? Or will you guys be happy to read that much in one go?

[Croswynd]

6k seems alright for one post, IMO. Jonesy managed it and it turned out alright. Just make sure you're happy with it afore ya post it. No need to rush perfection.

[RaKais]

6k seems alright for one post, IMO. Jonesy managed it and it turned out alright. Just make sure you're happy with it afore ya post it. No need to rush perfection.

It's just my usual posts vary between 1500 and 3000 (I only split it up like that because I feel people would be put out too much reading massive chunks in one go. Believe me, if I had my way, one chapter would comprise of most of an act lol)

It's almost ready and I'm kinda happy with it... but then again, I'm never 100% happy with my work, I leave the rest up to you guys

[RaKais]

7161 words so long, It's going to have to be in two parts! . My longest chapter yet. I loved some parts of this... others not so much but I'm proud of my own commitment! Who knows whats going to happen in act III

Anyway. Enjoy.

Chapter 9 - Part I

Corren City
1 Day and 18 hours until Hammer of Dawn deployment.

Kurt left the Mother and Son to themselves in the cafeteria whilst he went and checked on his men.

“You... have changed so much, Darrius,”

Darrius felt a pang of sorrow at the words. His mother was the one who had changed the most. Gone was the woman who looked strong and stood tall no matter what... instead, she was a pale, frail shadow of her former self. The food rationing was far stricter than the procedures allowed in Jacinto and as a result, many of the civilians were malnourished and underfed. It pained Darrius to see his mother like this but at least she was alive.

“Everyone has, mum,” He replied. “I'm not too sure if I like the change.”

“I doubt anyone does. It's especially hard watching that change in other people. Kurt's changed... your father has changed... everyone.”

“Mum... where is Dad?”

His mother's eyes watered at the question and as much as it upset Darrius, he needed to know.

“I didn't see him much since E-Day but... he kept in contact regularly... up until a few weeks ago,” She whispered, voice breaking with barely held pain. “Oh, you know your Father, he stayed behind to ensure the safety of his men... some facility a few blocks down from here... he made sure everyone got out in time... then the building was sunk into the ground.”

Darrius eyes glazed over almost, as though he was concentrating on something no-one else could see. He wouldn't... couldn't let this overwhelm him. He knew if he gave into grieving for his father, he wouldn't be strong enough to get through the next day. That didn't stop the shaking that wracked his body. His mother reached out a hand but Darrius pulled his fists away from the table.

No. I refuse to believe he is dead. I will not allow myself to grieve. It takes more than that to take down Dad.

“A-And... what about Ellie,” Darrius asked, suddenly remembering his little sister.

“She's fine. She's asleep at the moment.”

Thank god.

“Listen, I'm going to get us out of here. I know of a way to survive the Hammer blast,” Darrius said, strength returning to his voice. “I'm not sure what is going to happen after it's fired but... it's a chance we all have no choice but to take.”

His mother simply nodded and shifted slightly on her bench.

“I heard what happened with you and Kurt,” She said with a forcibly neutral tone.

“You mean today? Or last year?”

“Both. I can't say I agree with your reactions to either situation.”

“I'm not proud of what I did mum. When you say I've changed, you think it's just because the war is taking it's toll on my mind and body, like all who fight against the Locust but it isn't just that...,” Darrius said, rubbing his tired face. “On E-Day, Sarah called me, asking for help and I promised I would go and get her... only I never made it... and she's dead because of me.”

Darrius held up his wrist, letting Sarah's necklace dangle in the light. Obvious care had been taken to keep the necklace clean and it sparkled like it had just come out of a jewelry shop.

“Kurt said some words that really hurt me and not just because he used her name to get to me, but because what he said was true,” Darrius continued, lowering his hand to the table. “I snapped... Lashed out at one of the only people still left in my world.”

“We all make mistakes, Darrius but you can't blame yourself for Sarah. There was nothing you could have done,” His mother said sympathetically. “I didn't just hear about you and Kurt, I heard about your other exploits. You have saved so many lives... just by doing the right thing, regardless of consequence. Your father would be so proud of the man you are becoming.”

Darrius smiled weakly but averted his gaze to the table top seperating them.
“Maybe. I don't think he will be that proud of the man I may yet have to be to survive.”

To his surprise, his mother laughed.

“You sound just like your father when he was younger. Always worrying about treading the right path,” Her smile faltered as painful memories were brought up. “A-anyway, I'm glad to see you are safe and sound. I'm surprised my hair hasn't turned grey with worry.”

Darrius smirked.

“It's good to see you too, mum.”

After a few seconds silence, the double doors at the far end of the room burst open as Kurt hurried through.

“Sorry Mrs Gale,” He said with a grim look on his face. “I'm going to have to cut the reunion short. Darrius? We have a problem.”

Security Room
Corren City Hospital
1 Day 17 Hours until Hammer of Dawn Deployment

“Sh*t.”

“My thoughts exactly,” Andy said.

Kurt and Darrius stood over the curly haired man's shoulder, eyes flicking back and forward between the numerous monitors.

The trio watched as a group of Locust patroled the area to the south of the hospital, where Darrius had come up through the manhole. The manhole in which they needed to make their escape down.

“They haven't found us out, have they?” Kurt asked nervously.

“I don't think so, Kurt,” Andy reassured him. “Look, they are just wandering about. No sure sense of where they need to be. I think they're just doing their usual cautious probing along the surface to see if they can draw out any Gears in hiding.”

“Are you sure there isn't any other way?” Kurt turned to Darrius, almost elbowing Andy in the head.

“No. I spent four hours in those sewers. That manhole is the only unlocked and unblocked one in perhaps this half of the city. The Locust will most surely catch us if we try and march to the other side of Corren checking every manhole and grate. No. This one is just outside of the hospital and it's the only chance we have. We just need to distract the Locust. Draw them away.”

“Oh well, that's f*cking simple,” Andy snorted.

“It is. The problem we have with this plan is probably something you are not going to like.”

“Oh yeah?” Kurt said, eyebrows instictively raising.

“Yeah,” Darrius stared Kurt straight into the eye. “We are going to have to wait until the very last moment to ensure the plan doesn't fail.”

Andy and Kurt both stole furtive glances at one another before returning Darrius' stare.

“Last moment?”

“The last moment before the Hammer wipes ninety percent of this continent off the face of Sera.”

“You can't be serious!” Andy shouted, struggling to get out of his chair.

“Kurt, get everyone to assemble in the cafeteria,” Darrius said, walking out of the office.

“Darrius!” Andy called, chasing after him as Kurt held one hand to his ear, hailing the squad and relaying orders. “Who put you in charge!”

“If you have a better idea, Andy, be my guest,” Darrius replied, not breaking his stride.

Cafeteria
Corren City Hospital
1 Day 17 Hours 34 Minutes until Hammer of Dawn Deployment.

It didn't take long to usher everybody into the cafeteria. No-one said a word but simply sat or stood in hushed silenced as Darrius patiently waited for everybody to enter the room. Finally, a soultion to their problems was at hand and their thoughts were on nothing else.

Kurt was the last man in the room and he shut the doors loudly behind him to get everybody's attention.

“Okay, listen up,” Kurt said, striding through the centre of the room, ignoring the heads turning in his direction. “We finally have a plan for getting out of this mess. So listen to Darrius here and he'll explain what we need to do.”
Kurt stood by his friend and with an outstretched hand, indicated he should step forward and talk.

“Oh boy,” Darrius said under his breath as he stepped up onto a nearby bench. “Okay, people. I'm going to keep this short and simple. You don't need an inspiring speech of how we'll be fine and we'll get through this if we work together, no, you need answers and I have them.”

Darrius paused for a moment to compose himself.

“Basically, the plan is very straight forward. On the southside of this hospital, on the street directly opposite the entrance, is a manhole cover. The only unlocked manhole cover this side of the city, I might add,” Darrius said. “As you probably guessed, it leads down to the sewers that run extensively under this city. Unlike other cities, this sewer system has multiple levels... I didn't have much time to explore but there are several massive underground water purification facilities spread around the place... I guess it has something to do with the canals that make up a good chunk of Corren... but what do I know? Anyway, tomorrow, me and the other Gears are going to set up a diversion a fair bit from the hospital to keep the Locust looking the wrong way, then all of you,” Darrius waved his hand at the civilians. “are going to go down into the sewers with as many supplies as you can carry. We'll be deep enough to survive the strike and we'll have enough supplies to hole up in one of these water facilities until it's safe enough to try and contact the outside world... Any questions?”

A gaggle of hands rose admist people talking over each other but Darrius raised his hand and the voices faded to a faint muttering.

“One at a time,” Darrius said, smiling and pointed to an elderly gentleman.

“You first, sir.”

“Young man, are you certain being underground will save us?”

“A fair question and one I most expected,” Darrius nodded in agreement. “I'm no expert on military super weapons but if the Hammer was capable of penetrating deep underground, we wouldn't be targeting every city across this continent in one of the biggest asset denials in human history. We'd have found out the Locust stronghold and simply aimed the Hammer there. No, I think we will be very much safe underground.”

As he answered, a number of hands went down. Darrius pointed to Andy who was leaning against the far wall.

“The plan seems all very well, but what sort of distraction are we talking about?”

“Nothing too fancy. Setting off a few explosions a few streets away. Fire a few rockets and flares from the roof. I assume we have explosives here?”

“Well, yeah,” added a grey haired Gear to Andy's left. “After we lost the surrounding outposts, we moved quite a few supplies to here. We have an entire wing filled with crates of ammunition and explosive munitions.”
“Well, excellent. When night time falls, I'll take some C4 and some other goodies and plant it a safe distance away. I should have everything ready by tomorrow.”

“Well that's my other question,” Andy said, irritation evident on his face as every head turned to face him. “You say tomorrow, why not now?”
There was a chorus of agreement at this.

“I can understand wanting to get out of danger but we can't afford to trap ourselves,” Darrius said, raising his hands once more. “Andy, you saw the Locust patrols yourself. If we cause the diversion too early, it gives the them more time to stumble upon us and then what? We'll be trapped underground on their turf. If we wait until the last minute, not literally!,” Darrius quickly added before cries of outrage began. “Then they won't have time to search for us. They'll be burning with the rest of the world.”

“Well, what if they ignore this diversion and come after us! We'll be stuck out in the open!” Another civilian shouted.

“What if they catch us out in the open if we went now? They'd have enough time at their leisure to hunt each and every one of us down. What if they barged into this hospital right now?” Darrius countered. “We can't bank on each possibility. We just have to take the one with the least risk.”

“What, cutting it close with the most destructive weapon mankind possesses?” Another agitated civilian.

“We can't take that chance,” Another woman cried.

“Thats enough!” Kurt shouted and the room fell silent. “We can't argue amongst ourselves, okay? This plan sounds good enough for me. Darrius is right, the Locust could discover us anytime and I'd rather it be as we disappear underground whilst they fry, rather than playing cat and mouse whilst we wait to die. We'll play it on our terms.”

A few civilians nervously nodded and the Gears voiced their approval with a few grunts and chest plate slapping.

“How close are we cutting this, Darrius?” Kurt turned to his friend who stepped down off the bench.

“Half an hour.”

This time Kurt had to slam his fist down on the nearest table as the crowd erupted into angry protests. He grabbed Darrius by the shoulder.

“Half an hour!?”

“It took me less than five minutes to walk from the opening, to the hospital doors. It won't take more than half an hour to get everybody to safety.”
Kurt sighed and beckoned his men over.

“I hope to god you are right, Darrius,” He said. “Andy? Take Darrius and help him pick out some explosives. I'll get everyone gathering supplies.”
Andy nodded and tugged at Darrius' arm.

“Come on.”

As they began to leave, a middle aged woman grabbed Darrius by the elbow.

“Wait, sir, please,” She pleaded. Darrius looked at Andy and nodded at the door.

“Five minutes, Darrius. We haven't got time,” Andy said as he left.

“Sorry. I know you have things to do but...,” She shifted on the spot as though trying to find the right words. She seemed uncomfortable appearing indecisive and Darrius couldn't blame her. She was dressed in a very smart suit which meant she was probably some lawyer or high ranking official. “I want you to deliver something for me.”

“Ma'am, I don't really-,” Darrius began.

“No, don't worry, everybody knows him,” She reached around her neck and unclasped a silver necklace with a beautiful silver ring looped in the chain. A glittering diamond glistened in the light. “I need you to give this to Victor Hoffman.”

Darrius eyes widened slightly. Yeah, everybody knew him.

“Shouldn't you-.”

“No, I can't,” The woman said, interupting him again. “I'm still so... angry at him but... I had to come here to try and save my sister...”

“I don't understand.”

“You don't have to,” She said, smiling slightly. “Just... tell him I'm sorry and that If I can ever forgive him... I'll find him. He won't believe you but the ring should help.”

Darrius nodded and slipped the necklace and ring into a side pouch around his belt.

“I promise I'll deliver it. I take it you know Hoffman very well?”

“You could say that,” She said, turning away. “I'm his wife.”

Darrius heart skipped a beat.

Hoffman was probably going to use this to skin him alive.

If he doesn't already skin you alive for deserting your post.

[RaKais]

Part II

Chapter 9 - Part II

Corren City
1 Day and 5 Hours until Hammer of Dawn Deployment

“Are you sure you want to do this alone?” Kurt's voiced drifted through Darrius' new ear-piece. “You don't know whats out there.”
“Yeah I do,” Darrius replied. “Locust.”

Darrius had waited until nightfall to make his move. Stripped of his plates and dressed in all black, he was nearly invisible in the clinging darkness.

Shouldering a duffelbag stuffed with C4 explosives over his back, he set out a gentle jog. It was very chilly, the cold bite of the frosty air seemed to steal the air from his lungs but it barely sent a tickle down his spine, compared to the shiver from walking down the streets of a dead city.

He had never seen anything like this. It was just... so quiet, so empty, so... lifeless. Not a sound was made. He had grown up used to the background noise of cars and planes and cats scrounging around in dustbins. The silence just clawed at his ears.

It left Darrius feeling very unnerved.

“Okay, how far down should I go?” Darrius whispered, as he stumbled over a dustbin that had rolled into the middle of the road.

“Another crossroad down and there should be a camping store on your left. Andy just checked and he can see it from the roof. See if you can find some propane canisters for some extra oomph,” Kurt replied.

“I'll be surprised if theres a single screw rolling around that shop,” Darrius replied. The Locust scavanged and took whatever they could to improve their own technology. It was partly the reason behind the Hammer strikes.
It didn't take him long to reach the shop Kurt had spoken about. Just like the rest of the city, it was but a shell of it's former glory. Smashed windows, faded paint, over hanging sign dangling by a single chain, swinging in the cool breeze.

The door was long gone, reduced to battered pieces strewn across the shop floor. Stepping inside, he was surprised to find the interior reletively intact. Of course, the power was out but he didn't exactly need any light. All of his explosives were pre-armed. He simply needed to hit the 'on' button and leave the rest up to the guy with the detenator tomorrow.

With that in mind, he set to work. He piled up several devices around the shop, thrust some under the counter, on the shelves, around the walls. It should be enough to pull the building down, if Kurt was right.

“Darrius, hurry!” Kurt said, worried. “Andy picked up something heading your way. Too dark to make out whether it's a Grub or other survivors but you need to get back before they spot you. Can't afford to have our location discovered now.”

Darrius threw the last explosive over by the doorway and dumped the duffel bag on the floor.

“Okay. I'm done,” He said. “On my way back now.”

Stepping towards the doorway, Darrius felt the hairs on the back of his neck stand up. Something felt wrong. He wrinkled his nose... a faint but stomach churning smell bled into his nostrils. Beads of sweat formed on his forehead and inbetween his shoulder blades. Only one thing smelt like that.

Grubs.

Except if he was caught out now, there would be no Cole Train to save the day this time.

Darrius ducked down and peered out into the desolate street trying to pin point the direction of the smell. It was impossible, it felt like it was coming from every direction.

There was a sudden scrapping noise, like something sharp being dragged across floor tiles and Darrius knew he was in trouble. He made to run out of the shop but something hooked around his ankles sending him crashing to the ground. The night silence was rent by the sound of high pitched screeching and heavy thumps as more things entered the shop.

Wretches

The Wretch that had grabbed him by the ankles leapt onto his back, claws slashing downwards, tearing at his clothing. Darrius immediately pushed himself to his feet, almost over balancing as the added weight pulled him backwards. Reaching over, he grabbed the monkey-like creature by it's wrists and threw it over his shoulders. It sailed through the open space where a window once occupied, where it landed on it's feet, instantly swivelling around and launching itself back at Darrius, howling and yapping at him.

Darrius simply sidestepped the attack, twisting and drawing his combat knife from his belt. He couldn't risk drawing his pistol. He didn't want to accidently blow himself up with a stray bullet.

He could barely make out much within the dim interior of the shop but there must be at least four of them.

“Darrius? Darrius!? What's going on?” Kurt hissed into his ear.

“Wretches.”

Kurt's reply was lost in the commotion as another Wretch bounded across the floor at him. He sent a kick at the creature but it dodged aside and leapt upwards, hands reached for his throat. Darrius stabbed the knife upwards, impaling it in the underside of the Wretches jaw, killing it instantly as he punctured it's tiny brain. He had barely regained his footing when two of them barrelled into him at once, one bit down into the top of his leg, the other dragged it's claws along his chest. The pain was excrutiating and Darrius could feel his blood soaking his clothes.

He wasn't going down to Wretches though, that was for sure.

He stabbed the Wretch that had bit his leg in the back of it's skull and kicked it off, sending it's twitching corpses into a shelving unit, which collapsed noisily into a messy pile. The other Wretch had scampered back off into the darkness, awaiting another opportunity to strike.

There are still two, one unaccounted for. Keep on your toes.

Almost as soon as the thought had processed, a Wretch came from behind, screeching so loudly, he was sure his eardrums would burst. Darrius dropped to one knee and the Locust flew over him through the space his head just occupied. Not wanting to let the Wretch get away, Darrius flung himself forward and wrapped an arm around it's torso as it landed. It didn't struggle long in his grip before he stabbed it several times in the back, throwing blood up into his face. Blinded, he staggered to his feet, wiping furiously at his eyes.

He couldn't see but he heard the final Wretch move towards him. He didn't hear it pounce though and the next thing he knew, he was on his backside, with a set of Wretches teeth buried in his shoulder.

“F*ck!” Darrius shouted as it tried twisting it's head to cause as much pain as possible.

“Darrius!” Kurt called through his ear-piece. “Talk to me!”

He didn't bother replying, he simply stabbed his knife through the Wretches neck with so much force, he buried the weapon up the the hilt, the razor sharp tip passing through the Locust throat and into his own arm.

Clenching his teeth as he weakly pushed the deceased Wretch off of him, he pressed a hand to his ear.

“I'm-I'm fine, Kurt,” Darrius said, pain evident in his voice. “Just a few Wretches. I'm coming back now.”

As he let his arms fall to his sides, he took a very deep breath and made to leave.

Which was when he realised that whilst fighting the Wretches, he hadn't notice the Locust Drone standing in the doorway, drawn to the noise and commotion. It probably should have occurred to Darrius that the Wretches rarely went roving around on their own.

Give me a break. I don't have time for this.

Grunting in what seemed like amusement, it raised it's rifle.

Instincts kicked in, his self-preservation drive working overtime and Darrius hurled himself forward, bullets lancing over his head, punching chunks out of the far wall. He came up in a roll, rising to his feet within arms reach as the Locust re-adjusted it's aim downwards. Darrius stabbed the Drone in it's gut.
He succeeded in jaring his arm, the knife tip failing to penetrating properly and simply sliding across it's stomach. He knew had wounded it, as it's blood spat outwards but it wasn't fatal.

The Drone grabbed Darrius by the neck and threw him further into the shop. He crashed heavily through an empty display stand and slid across the floor to rest against a pile of C4.

The Locust stepped forward and raised it's rifle, spitting a large wad of flem on the floor by Darrius' feet.

“F*ck you too,” Darrius spat, hand tightening around the hilt of his knife. He sat forward slightly, reversed the knife and threw it with all his might as the Locust Hammerburst discharged. The knife took the Locust in the eye, the one soft spot on its entire body. Darrius slumped against the explosives behind him and the Drone dropped to the floor without a sound.

You really like to cut it close, don't you?

Cutting it close was an understatement. The Locust bullet had skimmed the skin on his neck, enough to leave a large cut, and had slammed into the floor right next to a propane canister.

Aching, battered, bleeding and thanking his lucky stars, Darrius retreived his knife from the Locust's face and limped out of the doorway.

Corren City Hospital
A&E
1 Day and 4 Hours until Hammer of Dawn Deployment

“Holy sh*t!” Kurt said, helping Darrius onto a gurney. “You're a mess. What happened?”

Darrius gasped in pain as he sat.

“Dumped the explosives. Got jumped by a few Wretches,” Darrius said, indicating his the grevious wounds to his chest, shoulder and leg. “Then a Drone decided to join in....”

“A Drone?” Kurt pointed at Darrius' side holster. “You didn't fire your weapon. What did you kill it with?”

“My knife.”

“I've tried stabbing one, Darrius. It doesn't really work,” Kurt said disapprovingly as he waved the Doctor over.

“Yeah well. Stabbing one in the eye works pretty well,” Darrius said, smirking then wincing in discomfort.

“Well, at least you are back. We can't afford to lose you. I want you to get as much sleep as you can,” Kurt said, he patted Darrius on his uninjured shoulder then turned to the doctor. “Doc? Patch him up the best you can. We have a long day tomorrow.”

You'd hope. It could be the shortest day of our lives, Darrius thought to himself.

Security Room
Corren City Hospital
46 minutes until Hammer of Dawn Deployment

“All clear?” Kurt asked nervously.

“So far,” Andy said. He kept one eye on the monitors whilst he stripped and cleaned his Longshot sniper rifle. “We had someone spot a Brumak a few hours ago but it's gone now.”

“I f*cking well hope so or we might as well get the sun decks out and wait.”
Andy chuckled and started piecing his rifle back together again.

“So, how good a shot is this friend of yours?” He asked. “I've seen him carry a Longshot around.”

“Darrius?” Kurt replied. “When he puts his mind to it, he has no equal that I've ever seen. He even shot a throwing knife out of the air once.”

“Really?”

“Well, he claims it was an accident.” Kurt shrugged. “Do we have everything ready?”

“Dec and Rogers spent most of the last day sorting through the supplies and weaponry and distributing it amongst the civvies. We should have enough to survive for a couple of weeks. Not that we'll need to wait that long, right?”

“No. In fact, after the city is fried, hopefully there won't be too much interference from anything kicked up into the atmosphere or any surviving Seeders. We might be able to contact Control and get an Evac.”

“One can hope.”

“Indeed. Shut this down. Kit up and get to the south side entrance. Time we made a move.”

“Music to my ears.”

Leaving Andy to his task, Kurt left the security room. He clenched and unclenched his fists as he walked down the halls. This was it. The most important moment of his life. If they screwed up, they would all die. No second chances.

He passed Dec hauling a heavy green grate out of a doorway, he paused long enough to throw a Lancer to Kurt, who caught it without slowing down.

“Hurry up with that Dec,” Kurt said as he turned the corner at the end of the hall.

He was pleased to find everyone waiting for him in the waiting area by the southside entrance reception. Everyone looked the way he surely felt. Nervous. Scared yet determined to survive to see the next day.
His fellow Gears stood apart from the civlians who were all sitting on the available seats, cradling heavy duffel bags, rucksacks and even plastic carrier bags full of the necessary supplies. Everyone was here apart from Andy, Dec and...

“Where's Darrius?” Kurt asked.

“Here,” A voice behind him made him jump. Kurt turned to his friend. Darrius was now fully kitted up. Back in plates with his father's Longshot across his back, he looked like the strangely imposing figure he had taken to resembling of late.

“I'm surprised you aren't taking this opportunity to talk to your mum and sister,” Kurt said.

“And say what? I'm not saying goodbye Kurt,” Darrius said tensely. “We'll make it.”

“I believe you,” Kurt smiled. “Hows the injuries?”

“I think the Doc enjoyed proding and poking them,” he replied, rolling his shoulders. “I ache, to say the least. But I'll be fine.”

“Speaking of the Doc, where is she?”

“Saw her dashing off to the toilets a few minutes ago,” Darrius said, shrugging. “She looked upset.”

Kurt was silent a moment before replying.

“We had to … deal with some civilians in critical condition that we couldn't move,” He said in an almost whisper. “I would have done it but... she insisted as they were her patients.”

“... Painlessly, right?” Darrius said, eyes narrowing.

“Of course. Better that, than leaving them her to the tender mercies of the Locust... or incinerated.”

Darrius bit the inside of his lip to stop himself replying with something he may regret. He knew it was the decent thing to do but it still felt... wrong.

“Okay,” Was all he said.

“Yeah,” Kurt said, sensing the sudden change in atmosphere. “Ah, there's Andy and Dec. Let's begin.”

“Right. Listen up folks,” Kurt shouted, getting everyones attention as he went to stand infront of the double doors leading outside. “This is it. We haven't got time to wait any longer. Simple plan. Oldest civilians first and those who have injuries slowing them down. Next, the middle-aged and younger. Finally, the youngest civilians and my Gears. As soon as we open the door and clear your group to move, you move. Don't slow down. Don't look back. Don't deviate from the road no matter what happens. Keep your eye on that manhole and get down it. Darrius said that as soon as you get to the bottom, walk along the ledge to right and around the corner should be a maintance room. We shall all meet there and... well, we pray.”

Everyone nodded as he finished. There was nothing really to say.

“Okay. First group. You'll be going with me, Darrius and Andy. We'll get you down the hole then provide cover for the other groups. Line up! We have seconds before we need to move.”

Darrius and Andy moved to the doors, unslinging their Longshot sniper rifles and checking ammunition. It was time.

There was a flurry of movement as the oldest of the group were herded towards the door.

“No-one makes a sound!” Kurt said. “Good luck. It's been an honour!”

And with that. He pushed open the doors to the blazing sun hanging over the condemned city.

Kurt moved to the head of the group and led them outside, Darrius stayed at the rear and Andy kept to the centre. As they left the hospital, Kurt signaled to Dec, who held the detenators for their distraction.

“Hit it Dec,” Kurt said.

Three streets down, in the camping store on the opposite side of the hospital, the carefully placed explosives detonated, forcing a fireball the size of a city block to shoot into the sky, chunks of concrete and metal riding the shockwave being flung in all directions. The sound reverberated around the entire city, echoing off of empty streets and boulvards, parks and shopping complexes with a ear shattering boom.

If that doesn't get their attention. Nothing will, Kurt thought.

The first group arrived at the manhole without a fuss. Kurt pulled the heavy cover away and kept his Lancer at the ready, scanning the empty windows all around him for any sign of the enemy as the civilians climbed down the ladder as fast as they could.

“Okay, Dec, Rogers and Carter, you're with the next group,” Kurt said as he helped a particularly elderly man clamber down. “Move!” Kurt nodded at Andy. “Keep an eye behind us.”

Darrius watched as the second group started moving. Being a lot younger and healthier than the first group, they made quick work of the distance and most were by the manhole before they knew it. Hope was starting to build up deep within him but he couldn't ignore the niggling feeling that something could go wrong and it was just waiting to happen.

“This seems too easy,” Darrius voiced his concern to Kurt.

“I know but- Sorry Ma'am but you can't wait, he'll be down with you like everyone else- Sorry, Darrius but what can we do? Maybe the Locust took your bait, maybe not. They might have truly abandoned this city.”

“I hope so.”

Darrius thought this was a disaster waiting to happen.
He checked his time-piece built into the underside of his forearm guard. Ten minutes. Plenty of time.

“Okay, Dec and Rogers, go down with them,” Kurt issued some more orders.

“Final group, now!” There was a weird whistling noise in his ear and then Kurt's voice again. “Your mother is with this group, she insisted on staying with your sister. Don't do anything stupid. You and me will be the last ones down. Okay?”

Darrius took a deep breath.

“Got it.”

Fate, it seemed, had been listening in on their conversation. As the the third group neared the manhole, the ground began to tremble.

Sh*tsh*tsh*t.

“Kurt!” Darrius said, fear creeping into his voice. “We got tremors. I think we have an incoming E-hole.”

The moment the words were out of his mouth when the ground heaved and buckled down the road, between the last surivivors and the hospital. Discipline dissolved into panic and the screaming began. The Gears tried to maintain order but the civilians broke into a run as the a giant section of the tarmac sunk downwards.

“Sh*t!” Kurt said. “Darrius, is that E-Hole in the sewer?”

“No, the sewer line we are going into runs across from, not up to, the hospital.”

The first wave of Grubs climbed to the surface, pointing and growling towards the fleeing humans. Darrius watched his mother struggle with carrying his sister, falling more and more behind in the rush and all rational thought went out of the window.

Darrius calmly stepped out of cover and got down on one knee in the middle of the road. Glaring at the Locust, he aimed his rifle.

There were perhaps half a dozen Grubs spreading out across the road but it was more than enough to take down everyone on the street. They wouldn't be alone either.

Bang

He blew a drone's skull away as it was half way out the hole. It's headless corpse tumbled back into the darkness. Calmly and effeciently, he had another bullet loaded in less than five seconds.

Bang

The next drone was in the act of aiming it's weapon when the Longshot fragmented it's neck, it gurgled and clutched at the hole in it's throat before it slumped into the dusty street. The other grubs opened fire now and there was nothing anyone could do as a redheaded teenager took a Hammerburst round in the back of her head, throwing her lifless body to the ground. Another teen, a friend perhaps, screamed and slowed to a halt but one of the escorting Gears grabbed her by the elbow and forcibly moved her towards the manhole.

Bullets hit the road all around him but Darrius aimed, fired and reloaded. Each shot hit it's target. Head, neck, collarbone. Even if it didn't kill, it incapacitated. Each shot buying time for the survivors as they ran past him.

Never had Darrius achieved such a level of focus before and he welcomed it.

More drones were climbing out of the E-hole now and soon, nothing would stop them.

Andy's longshot boomed behind Darrius and another Grub dropped. Lancer fire accompanied the sniper rifles as Kurt assisted but at that range, it was just surpressive fire, they couldn't hold them off forever.

“Darrius, come on! Your mum is fine now, everyone is down the hole, fall back! We are running out of time!” Kurt shouted.

“Don't play the hero now, mate, get back here!” Andy joined in. Kurt had obviously warned him of Darrius' tendacies.

The Locust started advancing down the road. Some fired as they walked, others started to jog. Others ran.

Darrius turned and started to sprint. He watched as Kurt moved aside for Andy to climb down and after a few seconds, he started to follow. His battered limbs screamed in protest but he ignored his bodies plea for mercy and pushed through the pain. The manhole was meters away.

A bullet lanced through Darrius shoulder, spinning him around, as he staggered backwards, trying not to fall over, another hit him square in the chest, punching through his stripped down plates and throwing him on his back. He bit down on his lip, trying not cry out in pain as he skidded on his armour. He rolled onto his front, blood flowing down his arm. Tears formed in the corner of his eyes as he desperately tried to crawl towards his salvation. The world kept blacking out. He knew he was fading in and out of conciousness.

“DARRIUS!” Kurt shouted over the gunfire from the cover of the manhole. “Come on!”

The words barely registered as Darrius fought to stay concious. He had no idea where the Locust was that had shot him but they mustn't be far behind. Kurt was barely a meter away, hand outstretched, screaming for his best friend to move, to survive, to not give up.

But as he reached out with his one remaining good arm, and hauled his battered body across the tarmac, inches from Kurt, realisation hit him harder than the bullet that had tore through his shoulder moments ago.

He wasn't going to make it.

Yet he wasn't scared as his strength faded. He wasn't terrified as his friends words grew quieter and more distance. He wasn't scared of dying. He had done it. He had saved his friend, what was left of his family, innocent civilians and Gears. He had given up everything to achieve the sacrifice he was about to make.

His eyelids fluttered... then they began to close. He only had minutes to go anyway... not even that... he wouldn't feel a thing.

He was going to see Sarah again...

A strong hand clamped around his wrist, bringing him out of his dying reverie.

“Darrius, come on! You're not going to die here!” Kurt said as he reached out and hauled his friend the remaining distance to the manhole opening.

“Kurt, just leave me. You won't make it trying to get me down the ladder. The Locust are... are right... down the road... you have to leave me,” Darrius mumbled, barely audible.

“I'm- I'm sorry,” Kurt said, straining with Darrius' weight. He pulled him to the edge of the opening and climbed down a few rungs to make room. “That doesn't sound like the friend I've known all these years. Now get down this manhole.”

No. Kurt was right. Giving up wasn't who he was. Some strength returned to his numb limbs, determination coursing through his veins. Adrenaline surged through his body.

So Darrius did what he knew he had to do. He reached over the opening, grabbed the manhole cover... and with painful shout of effort, pulled and slammed it shut over Kurt's head, ignoring the howls of muffled anguish as he twisted the outside locks closed. He could hear the Locust advancing on him.

Darrius rose to his feet and turned to face the Grubs as they ran towards him, he set his feet apart, fists clenched, back straight and stared defiantely at the oncoming horde. He didn't bother reaching for his weapon on the ground.

He simply smiled.

Corren City
0 Days 0 Hours 20 seconds till the Hammer of Dawn Deployment.

It began as a low hum resonating seemingly from nowhere and then... then blinding light pierced the heavens, parting the clouds like a gunshot. The beam of light lanced down into the exact centre of the city and shone brighter than the very sun, fire reflecting off every reflective surface in it's radius, it's audience of sparkling hellfire awaiting the genocidal finale conjured by the most brilliant minds on the entire planet.
Next, several, smaller, but no less incadescent beams touched down around the city limits in a perfect, flawless circle. These were the spotlights in this theatre of death and they were ready to give the world it's greatest show.
The screaming began but it was futile. Millions of souls crying out for mercy but the orbiting harbinger of death had no concept of such emotions.
The temperature rose. Glass shattered. Alarms rang out all over the city, a terrifying serenade to the howling condemned.
The smaller beams suddenly launched themselves inwards at blinding speeds, cutting through concrete, wood and metal, melting everything in it's path like a small child burns ants with a magnifying glass under the sun. The beams collided with the central column of light and there was a split second...

A beautiful split second of peaceful serenity where, for the first time in living memory... there was no war, no suffering, no dying, no nothing... but that lasted a microcosm of a split second...

And then the world burned.

[Croswynd]

Nope. He's not dead. I'm calling it right now. It's going to be some battlefield delusion or something. That's not how Darrius can die. I refuse to believe it, especially as this is only the -first- chapter of Act Three.

Anyway. Calm. Mmm....

He wrinkled his nose... a faint but stomach churning smell bleed into his nostrils.*

Bleed should be bled.

It sailed through the open space where a window once occupied, where it landed on it's feet, instantly swivelling around and launching himself back at Darrius, howling and yapping at him.*

"himself" should be "itself", just to stay in context.

There is still two, one unaccounted for. Keep on your toes.

"is" should be "are".

He succeeded in jaring his arm, the knife tip failing to penetrating properly and simply sliding across it's stomach.

"his"? The grubs or Darruis' own?

“Jesus Christ!”

Far as we know, he doesn't exist on Sera :P watch the religion stuff.


Okay. I liked this until Darrius "died". Then I got emotional and now I'm in denial. Good job; writers are supposed to get some emotion out of the reader and you did it. Not that I believe he's -really- dead.

There were a few paragraphs that were scrunched together, but it was mostly okay. In dialogue, you did as well as you usually do, though it could use some more contractions; no need to have them say "you are" when it's more realistic to say "you're". Course, that's my opinion.

Do the next chapter. Show me Darrius ain't dead, cuz I know he's not. And make it snappy!

[RaKais]

Nope. He's not dead. I'm calling it right now. It's going to be some battlefield delusion or something. That's not how Darrius can die. I refuse to believe it, especially as this is only the -first- chapter of Act Three.

Anyway. Calm. Mmm....

He wrinkled his nose... a faint but stomach churning smell bleed into his nostrils.*

Bleed should be bled.

It sailed through the open space where a window once occupied, where it landed on it's feet, instantly swivelling around and launching himself back at Darrius, howling and yapping at him.*

"himself" should be "itself", just to stay in context.

There is still two, one unaccounted for. Keep on your toes.

"is" should be "are".

He succeeded in jaring his arm, the knife tip failing to penetrating properly and simply sliding across it's stomach.

"his"? The grubs or Darruis' own?

“Jesus Christ!”

Far as we know, he doesn't exist on Sera :P watch the religion stuff.


Okay. I liked this until Darrius "died". Then I got emotional and now I'm in denial. Good job; writers are supposed to get some emotion out of the reader and you did it. Not that I believe he's -really- dead.

There were a few paragraphs that were scrunched together, but it was mostly okay. In dialogue, you did as well as you usually do, though it could use some more contractions; no need to have them say "you are" when it's more realistic to say "you're". Course, that's my opinion.

Do the next chapter. Show me Darrius ain't dead, cuz I know he's not. And make it snappy!

I did write alot of this in the early hours hehe.

I'll get started on those corrections but the one about the stabbing the Locust, I use "it" when describing Locust actions and "he" for Darrius, if you notice.

And I'm not saying anything about Darrius. It's how you read. He was above ground and the Hammer fired.

I guess you'll just have to wait and see where I'm going next with this

Thanks for the review, a massive help as always. Sorry about Darrius, it can't be helped... if you are going to blame anyone, blame SKORGE, he pushed me!!!

[SKORGE]

Part I:

He[r] smile faltered as painful

Add a 'r' in that there box, el' chapstick.

“Basically, the plan is very straight forward. On the southside of this hospital, on the street directly opposite the entrance, is a manhole cover.

The only unlocked manhole cover this side of the city, I might add,”

You broke the segment with that there space, but all you need to do is add a few quotation marks, fella.

“Andy, you saw yourselves the Locust patrols.

Get rid of the 's', but at the same time this sounds odd when read out loud. How about changing it so that it reads "You, yourself saw the Locust patrols." Aye, boy?

Darrius look[ed] at Andy and nodded at the door.

Righto', go ahead and strap that 'ed' in that there space, Robbie.


Part II:

hands reach[ing] for his throat.

Add 'ing' up in that box, there, boy!

The other Wretch has scampered back off into the darkness,

Put a 'd' in that little spot, over there, m'boy.

The Locust bullet has skimmed the skin on his neck,

Change 'err up!


Is it over!?

Nice work, RaKais. Felt like this was the best chapter(s) to date. And it had it's few surprises here or there. Like Margret.... that was a nice touch. Kind of hard to say something right now, as most of what I just read needs to slowly sink in, and showoff up there stole all or most of the corrections./compliments....but this was a great addition. As well, you had said this was the second act... so..... when can we expect more?

[RaKais]

I'd have thought you would have more to say about Darrius, SKORGIO, you never believed I would do it!

Well, I already have a general idea of whats happening next. So expect something in the next day or so. Just need to think up something exciting for.... um ... Kurt. hehe.

[SKORGE]

^He's not dead, that's why I didn't say anything. No story without Darruis... even if you *claim* there could be.