A day has passed since what happened at the night admirari. I was still, I can't say how I feel. I felt, my attraction towards Anis only pumped up. And as I smirk I said to myself as I looked at Anis "I don't regret a thing.". I want to be with him.. forever. I've been daydreaming lately to what my future could be. I hope we could get out of here sooner.
"Klein!" Anis called out to me. "The theme is changing.". I noticed also, it gradually changes to a more dark toned theme. And as we continue marching, mist soon starts to engulfed us. And soon we exited the endless corridors, and what we're walking onto now is dirt. Nothing enclosed us anymore, but now it felt like we are out in the open. We continued walking forwards. Half an hour had passed, and at last, the door appeared. Yet we didn't expect it to be a medium sized door. The door was a barred door. We got ourselves ready. Anis kneeled down upon Jessie "Jessie , remember what we had told you ok?". While shaking a little, her voice also she mustered up "Okay.". And as soon as we open the door.
Ack-
Anis felt a surge of pain from his brain. "Anis!!" I exclaimed. He still groaned in pain.
"I'm sorry" he murmured.
I don't get why he said that. "Fret not, we can still wait for you to recover.". But we had not yet expected another hurdle, we turned our backs and we see a huge wall, about to crush us. So we were forced to enter the door. The inside was similar to a dungeon. Anis... Anis was still in pain. With a grimace in my face, I carried Anis onto my shoulder, and said to Jessie "Let's carry on". Jessie nods, and goes along with me. Thankfully, there are torches. I hear Anis, talking to himself. "Anis?" I exclaimed, as I try to reach out but he didn't hear me. We continued marching. And the path diverges into two. "What do you think, little knight?" I asked her intuition, she was a little bit pressured but she picked right. "Alright, just know whatever happens don't blame yourself. I picked this too by mine truth." I groaned as I carry Anis behind my back. "Okay." she anxiously said. It has been another half an hour now. "Can you still keep walking?". "Yes.". "Good, little knight.". Another half an hour had passed again, I see jessie getting tired. We stopped as we noticed there are no lights ahead. I took a torched from the ones we had passed I asked jessie to take one as well, just to be careful. As we carry our ray of hope we saw a path diverge onto three. I don't want to put pressure on Jessie so I picked the middle. "I picked middle, how about you little knight?". "Middle also". "Good." I said, as I showed a smile to her. We walked for about 10 minutes when we heard something from the dark. Something, clicking from its mouth. "Don't look Jessie.". I said so she can't see what monstrosity lies just up ahead. I lay down Anis against the wall. I then took a few steps, and heard someone breathing heavily. Then I threw the torch I was holding and what behold us... Was a huge bluish face.. almost covering the whole passage. It contrasts to its very small body with a swollen belly. I took my sword, and yelled "Don't look jessie, okay?" I said as I need to make sure she doesn't suffer from this sight. I still stood my stand, as I analyze it. It seems to not be doing anything. Then it clicked. And started moving rapidly. I slashed it, and to my surprise it died instantly. And to my horror, I turned my back... And see a beast holding Anis and Jessie as hostage. Huh? Jessie... Anis.....
-I became enraged by the sight of it.-
Its disgusting features, along side its annoying six eyes. And I said, with pure intent to kill this bastard.
"Drop them.. or else.".
Through my eyes, he was about to kill them. I closed my eyes. And as fast as the torches burn through the wood. I grabbed its arms. Twisted it and ripped it off. You sick bastard. I took back Anis and Jessie harmlessly, and fed its two arms to itself, until its head exploded. Jessie cried, I was still enraged. But after seconds she sobbed, I turned back to myself. And as I looked back the first beast was about to eat Jessie. I took of my gauntlet, and threw it at it. I want to use as much as force as I could but I can't, not with Jessie still close. But it is enough to stun it, and I hurriedly took my sword. And stabbed it. After that I continued slashing it. I grunted as i grunted upon slashing it. I turned it into a pile of flesh. I was afraid to turn my back again but I have to. And what I saw is a curled up jessie.. crying. I went to her,.. "I'm sorry. I'm sorry I couldn't guarantee your safety. I'm sorry little knight." I said as grimace filled the expression of my face, as I tilt my head down upon her. Jessie, looked up a little with her eyes still filled with tears. "I... It's ok, I'm still fine." she sniffed. I, embraced her. I couldn't look upon the fright into her face. "Can you still go on?". She stopped crying. "Yes.. Yes I still can.". I hugged her again,.. and I carried Anis , and held our last torch. We kept going. And finally, we saw a light coming from ahead of us. But I looked with frustration, as we now have to go up upon the stairs. I looked up and can't see its end. I sighed, and let Jessie and myself, rest for now.
Jessie looked so tired, I insisted her to sleep, but she insisted also, but fell asleep either way. I can't rest that easily, knowing what might come after us. I let Jessie rest for an hour. After that, I tried lifting her up to the front, while I lift Anis from my back and there I marched harshly onto the seemingly endless stairs. Jessie woke up, and I insisted on her sleeping still, she insisted also, but fell asleep again. I smirked, and continued walking through the stairs. It has been two hours. I took a quick rest, and Jessie woke up. I tried breaking the silence, to ease up the tension. "Jessie, do you recall that day when a man attempted to get you? Do you know who he was? Let's walk the stairs while we converse.". "He was Professor Jerry. I...I'm..". "It's okay if you still can't say.". "No, is owkey, I'll tell.. what happened to me.... I was born from the year 8437. Ever since I was a kid, I was born from the labs. They lied to me where everything was going to be fine but that was until I turned 5. They began experimenting me, they put me in different suits. One where they would put me in a room, I sat at the chair, and just stare at the professors working beyond the glass, until they began and electrocute me. Second was for when they dumped in water. Cases where I would drown is normal. Thirdly, the most painful of all... was when they stick needles at every part of my body." she latched onto me as she said that last part. "Sick bastards am I right.". She laughed, "Hehe, yeah!". I laughed too, "I learned that from Anis.". And upon mentioning his name I recall the state of Anis. Even now he is still groaning. My smile completely subsided from me...
A half an hour has passed since then. And after walking just for a little bit more, we surprisingly finally made it to the end. And what lands before us...
A giant. A massive giant beast.
It looked down upon us, and spoke.
"WHO GOES THERE."
I have left no option, this beast is beyond me. It even has great intellect I reckon, as it spoke before us. I don't like doing this but. I kneeled upon the giant beast as if it was my King and introduced myself.
"I am Sir Klein."
Upon this introduction I sense Jessie with delight after seeing mine introduction.
"My two fellow here is my companion, If I may ask. Are you gonna challenge us to combat?"
"NO, I WILL NOT. I MAY SEEM I FIGHT TO THE DEATH BUT I DONT. I CAN. BUT I CHOSE NOT TO."
"Then I ask of you, how could we enter the door beneath you? Surely you will put us to test."
"THOU HAVE A KEEN EYE. YES THOU ART IS RIGHT. THIS DOOR HAS A LEAD TO LEAVE UPON THIS LABYRINTH."
"Pray tell, isn't the-"
"NO, IT IS NOT, IT IS MERELY AN ENTRANCE TO MADNESS."
"Madness... is it... Pray tell again, is this why my fellow here is sickly?"
"THAT I WILLL ANSWER IF YOU ANSWERED THREE OF MY QUESTIONS."
"Alright."
"WHY DID YOU SEEK TO COME THIS FAR"
"...It is all because of one idiot man. Anis, my fellow here. He simply reached out to me in my time of need, and I want to do the same for him. He's weak, yes. But he yearns to live, and... he taught me that too (I looked at him)... That is all".
"I SEE. HOW FASCINATING, I THOUGHT IT WAS FRIENDSHIP, BUT I GUESS IT WAS MORE THAN THAT."
-I blushed-
"THEN, ARE YOU WILLING TO DIE FOR. HIM."
"Yes... I'll gladly die with honor. For him. (I smirked as I took a glance at Jessie) to protect her also. "
"I SEE... WELL THEN. FOR YOUR LAST QUESTION SINCE YOU ARE WELL AWARE OF WHAT LIES AHEAD."
-ARE YOU READY FOR WHAT IS ABOUT TO HAPPENED? YOU SAID YOU WILL DIE FOR THEIR HONOR. SO. ARE YOU READY?-
"Yes. I am ready" I looked at him with fury. he then smirked. And opened the door.
"THE ANSWER YOU SPEAK OF ILL FROM ANIS... YOU WILL LEARN UPON FACING WHAT LIES AHEAD. AFTER YOU ENTER THIS DOOR, YOU WILL ENTER A ROOM. AND A DOOR WILL BEFALL YOU AGAIN AND THERE YOU WILL BE PUT INTO TRIAL. YOU MAY LEAVE THE KID AND THE FALLEN FROM THE FIRST ROOM."
I looked with uncertainty... I picked up Anis, and together with Jessie we took a breathe, and went inside. The door sealed itself, shutting us in to the unknown.
It was just like what the giant beast said, the door led us to a room. A door stands before us. "I want you to stay here, and protect Anis okay?". "Okay!". "Fare thee well, I shall catch up to you shortly.". I went to the door, and turned my back and said my goodbyes to them.
I opened the door and a passage, I went in and walked for a few minutes and until what seems to be my trial. Is a king...
I waited, wait just besides Anis holding on to his hand. Scared of what might happen. When a second door suddenly appeared. I stared at it, as I became wary of it. I then felt Anis came alive as he twitches his hand. "Anis!!". "Jessie...r....run" he uttered to me. "What?" I tried to ask him. "Its taking over, I have not been telling the truth to the both of you,... this whole time, Klein, doesn't know I am cursed...You need to run away from me. Ack-" he told me as he was in pain. I wept,
"No!! I don't want to be alone..."
"Please, Anis."
"Jessie.." I looked at her... faithfully. And held her hands. The pain I was in I set it aside.
"Jessie, you will never be alone now.. You've got Klein. He will be there by your side no matter what."
I looked at her, and laid her off, of what it might seems as my last smile to her. "You're stronger than me Jessie. So please. Go through the second door. Don't think about me anymore. Please. For my sake."
I'm sorry Jessie.. She's crying hard. It felt like... I really hurt her. That's good. She won't be thinking about me that much that way. I felt her hand slowly leaving mine. She walks toward the door "Good Girl..." I said. "Forget about me."...
She stopped before she could reached the door
And turned around and roared as like a little lion.
"I WILL NEVER EVER FORGET YOU ANIS. "
.....
"AND I WILL ALWAYS. ALWAYS BE THINKING OF YOU. ME AND KLEIN, WILL FIND A WAY TO HEAL YOU. SO THAT THE BIG BAD GUY INSIDE YOU WILL FLOAT AWAY AND DISSAPEAR. SO.... so.. "
Damnit Jessie... Don't make me cry.
"So, Anis. Never ever tell me, to forget about you. Because I would never ever forget you... and because I know that you will never ever forget about me.."
"Wait for us, kay? We will find a way. ".
She. said. As she... closed the door while crying also..
I.... I can never be braver than you jessie haha. Then I saw a third door appear. I sighed. That must be for me... With this state could I even make it. Ack-. You're so restless aren't you. I talked to the shadowy figure in front of me....
..
.....
The room seems to be a large fancy ballroom, except... The stench of death was powerful as it is covered in blood and corpses. And there lies a King. A bit bigger than me. It doesn't wore an armor, but suit rather with his robe.... "You... You've kill my people.....YOU'VE KILLED MY MEN AND THIS IS WHAT YOU GET?!" He screamed as he launched forward to me. Our blades clashed each other. He has almost the same strength as me but a bit stronger. "Was this just for your pleasure?! hUH?!". I groaned as he seems to overpower me. "N-no I- didn't kill them out of pleasure.". "Liar!!" He's really aggressive. I'm on the defensive side as I keep backing away each time he swings his sword. With precision and timing, I manage to flung him away, I immediately crushed down a wall to picked up rocks. I threw the rocks to barely give him some time to think forward, offense is defense. I swiftly launched forward to him to take a quick slash of my sword.. but he blocked it. Then with my right hand, a pebble. Before he even noticed I flicked that pebble with all my might, and hit his head. It was supposed to pierced him, but it only stunned him, but was given enough time to pierced his stomach through my sword. I did it... He was unfazed looking at the sword that just stabbed him and blood can even be seen from his mouth yet.. He looked at me dead in the eye, grabbed my sword, and broke it. "Crap" I exclaimed, as I knew what was about to happen, I immediately took his robe but in doing so, he was able to punched my sides brutally enough, to flung me hard. I groaned in pain. It hurts ack-. Then he started his goddamn dialogue again. "My, you were quite clever, but you didn't see it coming didn't you.". he entered his freaking monologue as I stood. "Did you really want to take my robe that much?". I looked at the robe I got. "Have fun with my robe, you murderer.". "...I might as well so." The king looked utterly taken aback. As behind it, my right hand... Two piece of pebble, "What makes you says I'm a murderer." I said, as I circle around him distancing myself. The king tried to decrease the distance and just right above him.... The King was shock "Is that even a question you-." Before he could continue, I shot a pebble above him-... A massive chandelier. But that wasn't enough to kill him I know. The King looked up the falling chandelier, there I took the opportunity to hit him again with the pebble in the face. I swiftly launched myself towards him again, and everything went in slow-mo. I closed my eyes and took a deep breathe. And think of Anis. THE MEMORIES I CAN STILL MAKE WITH HIM, I WILL NOT LET IT SLIP THROUGH MY HAND LIKE SAND! I punched him with all my might! But he still didn't flinched, as he hardened his core, but still took damage. But as the chandelier fell to him, I glided like a serpent, went through his back and grabbed the core of the chandelier and stabbed him using it through his neck. I hurriedly took his sword, and I took his left arm. As he lost his balance. There, I beheaded him. I still need to make sure. I pierced its head, and took his right arm also. I also took the liberty to stabbed him through his heart. And he still didn't move... Verily, I may have overstepped there..
Then out of a sudden, I heard a laugh, I'm just glad it didn't came from the body which I have just dismembered. The laugh I'm hearing is now paired with their claps. They then showed their selves.. It is. The King too. I didn't look surprise I just stared at him. "I congrats you for beating my other self. He was on par with my strength, but limited to his capabilities and well, personality as well, as you might see.".. I glared at him still. "Though I am saddened of this many death upon my kingdom's men, it is already justified as this is the risk of wars.. or more like the inevitable outcome... Fret not, I will perish also, as we are both clones, and we are both the original. I just chose not to battle, because watching is way more entertaining! I guess that explains his temperament also.". "Why did you wish to reveal yourself only now?" I asked of him. "Well, the answer is mostly from what I've just said but more so I want to purely observe you actions. Your yell of this fellow for Anis, oh my is just.. why do I sense romance?" he infuriatingly added. "He will die you know."..... "What?" Huh.. What did I just heard. "Come on now you heard me,... just across this room, I sense evil far greater than this idiotic self of mine... Do you truly cherish him?... Save him... I would love to say before its too late but, it is too late, look for a way, don't abandon him."... I tilted my head downwards to symbolize a nod as I hurried over through the door....
"Oh my, this isn't like me. I the King, shouldn't have done this..."...
"YOU FOOL YOU LET HIM GET AWAY... YOU HAVE FAR GREATER STRENGTH WHY DIDN'T YOU LEND A HAND, I DIED LIKE A FOOL!".
"Oh shush! You hurt my head with that tone of yours, I really was going to lend an aid, but... I heard the cry of roses in his thick head of his... It reminded me of our beloved... Lia..".
"...It's not our faul-"
"Oh, but it is.... We abandoned her. Betrayed her. We let our townsfolk execute her. While she watch us from the crowd. I can still hear her say from that execution 'It's fine. This is how it should be... live. and carry on.' ... Oh dear I'm now fading". I remember. I ran and ran. But. I didn't carry on. Forgive me Lia. At the Lake Constance. I met my end there. Forgive me.
As I was about to help my part of me, I heard Klein's cry for... desperation... will to live. And it is deeply connected to the man that is just besides this rooms. And upon searching that man's soul... It is held by greater power than us. He is about to lose his ray of hope. Save him, don't abandon him, and hold him tightly. I said to myself as I fade and thought of Lia for the last time. "I'll be joining you soon.".
Klein rushed over the passage to come through the door, yet...
-----------II-------------
When I opened the door,... I returned to my lab. Except everything... gone now... I'm scared. I turned my back, and tried going back. But when I opened the door it was just a door that leads to nowhere. I'm scared please. I curled up, and started to cry. I recall them.... Everything they have done to me...
..Then I heard a distant murmur..
"Ah!! You are brave my little knight"
"I.. am?"
"Indeed!"
-Klein-
"Jessie, jessie!! Wanna go up to the space again?"
"I wanna! I wanna!"
"Am I really brave?"
"Don't even question it Jessie! You have the courage as to like a Lion"
-Anis..-
I caught up my breathe. Took a deep breathe one. I stood. And I wiped my tears away. And ventured to the future of the future. I'm still scared. But I am doing it scared now.. I'm brave. I'm brave. Ever since they made me in pain. I will always wish for a nice, caring parent in the future. I hoped. And I got what I wanted. I got two dads now. Unusual but sweet. After talking to myself more, I then someone. I looked upon the corner and.. its a professor! I leaned a little bit too close, and I tripped. Ah. They saw me. I tried to defend myself with a nearby rock. Then, the professor, it reached out to me, wanting to help me from my fall. I took his almost decayed hand. Everything in him is almost decayed like. He looks orange. And when I look a bit closer, its.. Professor Jerry! I gasped, and tried to hid just by the corner, peaking and looking. He said to me "I will not do anything, don't worry Jessie.". And I feel like.. I could believe him so, I didn't hide anymore. He then turned his back and carry on walking while struggling a bit, he then said "Follow me if you'd like.". And I did follow him. After a minute, I asked, "You won't put me anywhere that would hurt?". "No."... "What happened to this place.". "Many events happened, some of our experiments gained their own will and rebelled back. While some experiments was beyond help, and turned hostile to everyone. And we got raided. ". "Woah." I said, I got lucky..... I look at the chaos just outside. "Yes, you did got lucky.". He then stopped, and said. "But you can always return to us... please, don't make us give up hope. You came here for your trial, and to succeed this trial of yours join us... JOine UsSs 94032.". Upon saying that set of numbers I stared at him. And looked at the apocalypse that is happening in front of us. He begged me still, grabbed my shoulders while shaking. "You are not to fit outside this world. This world. This apocalypse is your home now. And if you stayed we will color you spoiled! hAhA!". I continued ignoring him. "We know, you'll come back, I know you'll come back. Just like a child who had grown tired of the outside world and came back to her real parents hehaha! You can call me Papa instead of Professor Jerry if you'd love to.."............. .. ...."STOP IGNORING ME!".
-I took a deep breathe-
"Have you-".
"Huh."
"....Have you ever experienced... running into the snow with your papas?"
"Huh"
"Hehe, have you ever been called not your real name, but 'little knight'."
"... iF THat is wHat you want to be called the-"
"Have you ever spend a who~le year with your papas in a labyrinth full of monsters and yet you still enjoy every bit of time you had with them."
"Huh. What are you talking about?"
"Have you?"
"I-"
"I don't think so prof."
"...."
"I've already met my family, ...it's small, they're just two, but somehow they carry the whole world for me... Prof. even if either option I'd suffer. I want to suffer with them.".
-Why-
-Why is she not afraid of me?-
-Why is she...-
-...-
-I subsided my anger. And sat besides her, and looked at the apocalypse-
"You... heh, you've become brave 94032."
"That is not my name, never will be. I'm Jessie." I touched my chest with my palm and raised my other arm to show this man! "The daughter of a Knight! And a salaryman!!".
Prof. Jerry smirked and said "Upon walking to the door, brace your selves.", and then he slowly fades. Everything slowly began to fade, I circle around as it happens, and I find my self in a large room, and a door. I gathered myself up, and opened it. It was a passage, I walked for 2 minutes I think? Then I saw a door, I smiled as I get to see them again! And as soon as I opened the door. I saw Klein fighting Ani-.
Klein,... Klein?..
....
H-his, jaw is... A-and.. there's a hole in his chest. I stared... very.. unsettling... Anis's curse must have finally taken over. I can see from the ominous mask. I wished upon the many star it's not him. But I was sure now.. .. Klein looked at me, and I see him trying to talk. "R-..rUn..". I won't call that thing as Anis! "GO away from Klein!" I screamed, unaware that the curse ripped of Klein's arm as he groaned from the pain and threw it at me at full speed.... I really didn't know what to do... Someone.. please....
...
....
I cried, but.. everything went quiet. And everything was a bit yellow? Time stopped. I see Klein's dead eyes staring at me.. Please... make this stop.. I-.. I-... Huh?.. I hear.. someone. Melony? I gasped. S-she came back! Melony!!
"Is the time stop your doing?"
"Jessie, listen. We must kill Anis...."..... What? No. no... My faithful smile faded. I shook my head in refusal
"What do you mean?"
"Anis is of beyond help. This is the result of the curses of the time.".
"Curses of time?".
"Yes, they lie in dormant for a year, but in return when they finally reveal their selves. It's over for their host. But this, it laid dormant for years. Anis must have endured its pain for two years!".
"So you or Klein have to kill him?" I tearfully said.
"No.. Anis needs to stab himself. If we were the one to stab him, the curse would only transfer to those who killed the host or those who stab it fatally. So, I must use my power more, I have unlimited powers that i have not spoken, but this takes a lot of my energy, so may I ask, may I borrow your power?".
"Of course!!" I... I nodded. Anything to make everything go back to the way they are.
"Okay, Jessie. I will turn back time for a few seconds and go through the walls and-.".
"I can?".
"With my borrowed power and your energy, yes. So, can you do this jessie?".....
"...Yes."
"Okay.".
"Can't we.. .still save him?"
She paused for a moment. "....There's nothing we can do I'm afraid."...
"We can still try! Please, please, please!!!" I begged her while crying. Anis being gone? No, I no accept that.
"I.. let's save Klein first.. okay?".....
Melony told me everything I needed to do. And as she turned back time I was at the passage again, she said goodbye and goodluck to me. I closed my eyes, just like what they would do, and take a deep breathe. AND GO!
With the power of millions. I become one with the wall, and traveled my way through Klein while also concealing my presence. I distracted the curse by throwing a rock by the opposite side and went to Klein. Before he could open the door to the room.
....
......
I.. I sense some incredible dark power beyond this door. My hand is shaking.. As I was about to open the door someone pulled me away. Jessie! Jessie's the one who pulled me. Then we came upon to a room. I immediately hugged her. "I thought you're gone!".
"Heartwarming but not now! We.....".
"Jessie?". She explained to me what needs.. to.. be.... done.
What?
"no...No! Who told you this?!". She started crying..
"I'm sorry... I just can't believe it. Are there no other means?".
She said no. I'm losing myself. What the-. This cannot be. I can't breathe....
How pathetic must I look now... Then Jessie fainted. "Jessie!" I hurled over. And then she slapped me.
What stands before me was not Jessie I'm sure of. And someone finally told me off "Stop being pathetic Klein. It's the only way.". I looked dismayed. "Do you want Jessie to die or not? You told that giant beast you we're going to protect her also, so proved it.".
"..... No.".
"He... he must lived."
"You're being stubborn right now."
"Yeah, I maybe. But I won't let his life go to waste!"
"Is this how little you think of Jessie's life!?"
"No! She's just as precious to me as Anis!"
"Then proved it! Kill Anis! That way you could save one instead of NONE."
"Nay, I'll... I'll find a way..."
"Right... So how will you save him?"
"... I'LL... I'll think of a way. I'LL THINK OF A WAY. I'll save both of them.".
"This is not some shittin' light fantasy Klein. You're no hero. Not everyone lives to see another frickin day."
"DON'T speak to me with that foul mouth of yours! Anis will live to see another day with us! I want... I want to give life to him. To the life he didn't have. I want him to give the world. My world..."
".... Tsk. This is not something we should discuss right now. It's only a matter of time before he makes a move."
"Ngh...For now I'll go along with your 'Plan'. But I'll think of a way." I glowered at her.
"Suit yourself. But let me just tell you this. Whatever you do. It. Would. Not. End. Well." She said spitefully
Jessie turned back to herself. "What happened?"... My face was blank, then I showed her a smile and said. "Let's greet Anis again... This time more wholeheartedly." She tearfully nodded. "Let's save him alright?".
"We can??!"
"I'll find a way.. I'll find a way.....Little knight..."
And so began the fight.
I opened the door and yelled "Hey! You bastard I'm Here!!". Then it turned its back all of a sudden, and launched himself to me. I tried to clashed him with my sword stolen from the King,
"Do you still remember me Anis."
But he developed this hardened dark substance from the side of his hands forming a blade.
"I know you are there."
Its strength is greater than that of the King, but I was lucky enough to have the King's unbreakable sword.
"You saved me."
But I keep falling behind.
"That time you grabbed my hand to save me. I saw your eyes. I saw you."
It barely gave me any kinds of opportunity to flung him or strike back.
"You were the first person to ever look at me like that. To ever to want me to live."
As we clashed our blades, he formed another blade from one of his hand, ready to strike.
"And for that I thank you." He stopped.
I got the opportunity to increase our distance, and threw pebbles, but its not doing enough damage, it just stands there well aware the pebble doesn't do enough damage.
"You've given me hope. Something that no one ever gave me."
Then suddenly, a voice from Anis,..."Stab me" he said it twice before taking of his mask and shouting again "STAB ME."..
"I know you're not him."
I know you're luring me you demon. Using his voice, this enrage me. I took a deep breathe as I closed my eyes.
...
.....
"COME AT ME."
I screamed with fury. He came in fast and clashed against our blades.
"Would you want to dance with me for this one last time?".
"When we dance at the forest night.".
Its other unused arm about to stab me but I grabbed the sharp blade upon mine own hands.
"Its like that time right" I smirked.
That hand of mine bled. And with all my might I headbutted him. It was surprisingly enough to stun him a little. I swiftly came at him, and I was about to stab him he greeted me with open arms, but I stopped "Forgive me, Anis", and I took off his left arm. Light beams from the sky.
And Jessie appeared from the crown of the room charging her magical bow.
..
...
"Anis, I,... Don't worry. We will save you" she murmured through her tears as she charged and charged her bow...
...
Light illuminates from that bow..
Surge of golden light forged from heaven....
A crescendo from the illumination...
.....
....
and there she launched her bow.
It glowed radiantly.
Crafted from her memories of Anis.
"The time we have spent together."
Then as the bow fused with Anis, and the cursed was blown away but still attached. As the room glimmer with gold. I got to see the real Anis again. His head tilted upwards. I went to him and with a dismayed look I gave him my sword. He didn't looked at me. Why? He then pointed at it from himself and looked at me with sorrow beyond measure. And he gently smiled at me. He.... stabbed himself. The curse yelled in anguish as it slowly disperse mid air.
And what we're left now was... was... why am I suddenly weakened. I fell but still conscious. Unbeknownst to my hidden wounds. I... I grabbed the floor like a pitiful worm crawling my way up ahead Anis. He's still alive. "I... Anis I!..".I groaned in pain. I did it... Just like before.. We are both unconscious, and was just centimeters away from each other. Don't worry I'll save you.
"Anis... We are going to leave this hell hole okay?"
"Klein..... Klei-"
"Anis!..." I groaned some more.... I tried looking at him but he looked away. Why.. WhY..
"Anis. What's wrong?" Anis cried.
"I- I- killed you both."
"What do you mean?"
"I can still feel it. I tortured you. Then I saw Jessie. I ripped off your arm and threw it at her. She. She died. And as I took a glance at you. I- I killed both of you. I KNOW it isn't me but.. It felt like it was.."
"Anis I'm still here. Jessie is still here. Anis please let me help you."
Blood... So much blood.
"It's just like before right? We survived that right?? We can still now Anis, don't give up."
I-I ripped apart his clothes to dry the blood but. SHIt. I-I-... I can't stop the bleeding. Shit shit shit. I shouted, my voice trembling from desperation. Anis... Anis please..
Anis continued wailing and panting. Then he s-slowly became quieter. ANIS!!
"Klein"....
".....ANIS".....
"Klein.."
"Anis, please."
"Do you remember when we danced?"
"Anis, don't die.."....
..
.....
......
-Can you hold my hand just like before,... for this one. last. time..-
..
....
I.. I held his hand. I'm suffocating... Anis.
-I can't quite see anymore... Klein?-
-Are you still there Klein?-
-.....Yes. I'm here. I'm holding your hand tightly- I shed tears again. Anis please. Please. Please. Please.... Please. please. Please. please.
-Have I ever thought you any word from my mother tongue?-
-Nay-
-What "Kaya mo yan" means?-
-Nay...-
-It simply means you can do it. Now, say to yourself-
-..".Kaya ko to"-
-..... ...."Kaya.. ko to."-
-Haha, it sounds so broken...-
-....-
-It means I can do this.-
-I want you to live Klein.-
-I..-
-Klein-
-yes?-
-Even if I didn't save the world. I'm.. glad.. I'm glad I manage to save *yours*.-
-Anis.- I can't stop my tears.
-As we hold our hands. Rest upon the gentle coldness of the snow. Danced and embraced together. I can hear you in every bit of my memory. See you... Feel you. Your rough and deep voice but somewhat soft. Whenever I feel you are there besides me it just makes me want to goddamn smile. I just wanted to tell you. Ugh, I don't need to make this any longer and romantic, Klein....from... the bottom... of my dying heart.-
-From the bottom of my dying heart-
-I love you-
-Anis?-
-Anis? You're still there right??-
-ANIS. DONT GO PLEASE-
-Don't... leave me here.-
-Don't worry. I won't abandon you.-
-I'll keep holding your hands.-
-I love you too-
-So, please. Live besides me.....-
I held his arms tightly. With my head up against his cold shoulders. I'll be by your side. No matter what. I closed my eyes. And I see you.
"Klein, the sky's beautiful isn't it."
"Klein, do you ever smile?"
"Ah! You do smile! Ack- you look so-.."
"Klein, you like bread?"
"Klein, just wait until we get home. Let's buy all the breads we want aha!"
"Klein, I never thought I get to see you laugh. You're definitely not that kind of person. But you just look so.. striking."
"...Klein.. So, what did you feel when we kissed. Ah, just uh. kinda curious hehe."
"I felt,.. my heart was racing. And I felt happiness. I felt happy."
"...I never really thought.. Pardon my insecurities but, aren't I boring? Just asking this makes me already boring to be ho-"
"Never once have I ever thought you are Anis. You're not boring. Just by looking at you all day long. All month long. All year long. In my entire life. I will never get bored. And I bet if you're boring then I'm as just as boring as you are. As long as you're there by my side. I'll be there for you also."
"..Klein, I... I Lo-...I.. it would be nice if I can.. hold you forever."
"...."
"......"
"..I Love you."
"I love you too."
My eyes unveiled, struggling to focus. Cold. Its cold. Oh. I see Anis' hands. Holding tightly to my hand. Don't worry Anis. I love you too. I will hold on to you, no matter what. Ah I see someone's leg.. Standing before us.
Jessie was standing there. And I thought it was jessie but it wasn't. It was Melony.
...
.....
...........
I stared at them blankly.
"Anis died. Klein..."
"Let go..."
...
........
..........
"You loved him right? Then leave him. And live."
Klein refused stubbornly.
"Let him go..."
He held his hand more tightly shaking.
I furiously looked at his pitiful state.
Klein.. you was supposed to let go, and carry on.
I saw it in my premonition..
-I can hear my voice shaking.-
He was supposed to die with peaceful solitude
once he got up to the surface.
He was supposed to write an ode to Anis.
But no, you chose to be an idiot.
You chose to be by Anis's side no matter what
.....
So be it, what matters is I have helped Anis protect him and Jessie.
I detached myself from Jessie and went to the center of the room.
Upon waking up Jessie gasped "Klein!.. Anis!!!". I stared at Jessie as she too hurriedly came to him and grieve for Anis... What I see is a family in grief....
I...
Whatever the matter. I shall use my energy left to go home.
I want to see him too. It's not only you who grieves.
Anis I'm sorry but I want to meet him..
It was nice hanging out with you at the rooftop..
Farewell.
I left them. The last thing I saw was the two of them grieving.
....
....
..
Time turns to who knows how long, they are not keeping in count. Klein is still holding Anis' hands.
I can feel the dark settling over me, quietly, completely.
My eyelids lifted slightly. Anis, I can't see him *-I don't want to-*. But I feel him just besides me. And I felt... Jessie lies nestled in my lap, fast asleep. She was tired from crying,. Jessie....
I see my hand. Held closely in Anis' hand.
I see my hand. Succumbing to darkness. I can feel my body blackening. I am not in pain, nay. But I started feeling.. numb.. I'm turning into a spirit. My whole body consumed. As it goes through my head. My solemn eyes looking at the ceiling. It seems I have dried out too. As the darkness courses it way out through my eyes. I closed my vision. And think of him. For this one. Last. Time.. before I lose myself.
In a beauteous field, where radiance of light and flowers bloom the landscape. I see my self with a hollow gaze. But then was filled by a shining star. I see
Anis.
I smiled and cried. All things seemed to drift, sluggish as in a dream. It was as though time had lost its haste. I ran into him. And embraced him once more. "Why does this feel so.. real? Haha, I'm deluding myself aren't I." I said to myself as I keep embracing Anis. Fondly.
"Klein,... leave me. Please. I want you to live. Live and protect Jessie.".
"I can't... I can't..."
"Klein."
Please. Let me hold on to you much longer. Please...
Anis embraced me too.
"Klein. Does everything doesn't matter anymore once I'm gone?"
"Yes. Yes Anis."
"Does.. Jessie's life does not matter to you?"
"No.. it's not like that."
"I want you two to live, feel the world, and be there for each other."
He said, as my eyes glimmered with unshed tears, lips trembling from sorrow, until a single sob broke free.
He brushed his hands across my crying face tenderly. Drying my tears away.
I felt his hands still in my countenance. And felt the warmth of his hands. As I close mine eyes.
"Calmed down now Klein?... Remember, Jessie is a part of our life too. Since everything does not matter anymore, hold on more tightly to the little precious things that happened and things that will happen to you."
"Anis-"
"Both of you is a path that I chose to be on. And I don't regret every single thing of it.."
"Me too!" Jessie?!
"Jessie, how are you here?" I questioned. But she shrugged it off.
"I love both of you too. But I know we have to leave you Anis.." She tearfully said.
"See? Jessie gets it haha."
"Anis.. I-..." with a bit of sorrow. I smiled at him. "I love you too."
Anis smiled too. But then everything slowly faded. I was supposed to feel numb but I feel.. lighter. I opened mine eyes. Jessie woke up too.
"Jessie?"
"Klein?"
She cried again. I cried too. But this time... its different. We embraced each other.
The darkness that consumed me was gone.
After we cry. And as our forehead touched together, Jessie gently smiled, so I am. Everything was quiet.
So this is what will happened. I was suppose to leave but. I wanted to see how it goes. They did conquered their sorrow. I-..I.. *I started to cry*. I hate you Klein... In the other hand it's Anis' fault too, if only you didn't bring that word up, It only took a number of words, for Klein to chose such a pathetic decision. I said as I cry myself like a goddamn baby. But they still manage to rise... I sighed, You've gotta be shittin' me. I was supposed to go back home. To see him.. even if its not my world... with all this power left of mine. But I guess I was put into trial too.
...
I walked slowly through them.
I kneeled in front of Anis, while both of them is by his side.
"Jessie. Klein. Hold my hand."
"Melony?"
They both looked at me.
"I'm going to sacrifice my ticket way home to revive him."
"You- Why didn't you save him for the first time?!" Klein shouted with fury.
"It's because I want to see my dead boyfriend too."
"..."
"You know how hard it is right. To lose the love of your life... But I'm not one to talk.. Klein. I apologize. I was too selfish. I-" Ah, shit I'm crying nonstop.
"I only wished to see him too. I was about to send myself in a world where he's there by my side.... Still alive and kicking... Frick, but I'm just deluding myself also. He's already long gone in my own world. I can't revive him like Anis here... I'm sorry Klein. I'm sorry I didn't save Anis for the first time. I'm the worst friend. But please, let me make up for my decisions. Take my hand, both of you."
Klein didn't say anything. But still there's a grimace in his face as he held my hand. Jessie also.
"I.. forgive you."
"...Thanks."
And there, I began the healing after I pulled the sword still imbedded in Anis' stomach.
A surge of soft light, can be seen, it repaired all his injuries and lost limbs. The light depends on those whom I heal. But this, this was unexpected. As I healed him, I felt everything. Everything he experienced. Every failure branching to this version of himself. He truly loved Jessie and Klein. With a tear and a smile, I began the revival process. After another surge of soft light, I can feel their warmth. Their radiance together....
Anis opened his eyes. He was confused. "Klein? Jessie?". He embraced them both. And it was his turn to cry.
Geez. Love between two men is truly hopeless..... I sighed again and stood at the center of the room.
and looked back. Moments ago, was two people who's grieving. But now. I see a..
-A Family of Three-
I began to fade...
"Melony!" shouted Anis
I looked at them
"You did this."... I was surprised he said that. But. yeah... I did this... I revived a family.
I smirked "I did..."
Jessie came to me and said, "Thanks very much. I hope you and your boyfriend rest together in piece.".
I smiled
"Jessie. Thank you. You came when I needed you the most.".
She grinned at me for the last time as she cries.
"....Farewell." I took my last glance at them. Devoid of flowers. But their warmth together combined as they embraced each other make it seems like they are all lying in a field of flowers. Anis... Live on happily with them.
...
.....
....
She's gone... I'm forever in your debt my friend.
"Fuuudge. How I missed you Klein." I said as I looked at him. "I miss you too" Klein replied with a bittersweet smile. Stars visible in my eyes. Of course I want to kiss him... So I did. Then I hugged him joyfully. "Ahaha! Come 'ere Jessie!! Ahaha.". Jessie tearfully went to us and we embraced yet again. Is this a dream... Okay... I still have to finish some stuff...
"Now let's do this trial shall we." Klein looked at me worriedly. "Klein, each of us faced our own trials. Let me solve this on my own to prove something to myself." Klein was still uneasy but he let me go. Before I go, I gave him another kiss and a pat to Jessie's head. "I'll be back.". I opened the door, to be honest. I am very afraid. I am very afraid of what might happen. But with fury and hope "I will get back." I said as I walk upon this passage. I can't see ahead of the path because of the strong light. As I passed through the light, what lies beyond was a field of flowers. Everything was bright and sunny. And a door is present in front of me. I went through the door. And... ah. I'm in a house? Someone just gave birth...The baby... Oh. It's me. I looked at myself. And then everything went static. I'm 3 years old now. I can see myself being devious as a child hiding my family's slippers with my friend. I'm 6 years old now, I see myself making friends with the neighbor. I'm 12 years old now, I became alone upon moving, I didn't try bother doing anything for at 2 whole years. I can only hear nothing but endless arguments. My mother pushing me to do everything. I'm 17 now, full of ambitions, full of energy. And I'm 22 now still smilin and livin after giving up my great ambitions. At 29 I was tired, but still did my best to not give up.... My whole life flashed before me. Literally. At 32,.... I manage to work in Japan, because I've always wanted to, but ended up just being a salary man. Everything was depressing. I'm now 34, It felt like, everything is moving too fast. I was filled with great ambitions, and with a blink of an eye, I just became a soulless worker. Why did things must end up here?... Its because I was not dedicated enough unlike other people.
You hated your life... I did..
A part of me walked out from inside of me.
"But here, you felt alive right. It felt like you are born to be here. To meet Klein and Jessie."
"Yeah..."
"But there in earth you're just pathetic."
"....Yeah."
"So, why not stay here. You could choose to stay forever and go on an endless adventure with Klein and Jessie. Everyday, no work no-"
"I'm good."
"...What."
"I'm.., yes I am pathetic that time, but now I'm excited to have a life there with Klein and Jessie. And right now, I don't see myself as pathetic. If I still call myself that even after everything I've been through then I truly am. But I am not. I will be more pathetic, if I ran from reality."
"You're not even sure they would be with you don't you. Klein's from the past, Jessie's from the future. Wouldn't there be an anomaly in your time then?"
"Yeah, I'm not sure... I am afraid of losing them. But they taught me here too. I taught Klein to live. He taught me to live with full of colors. I've still got some great ambitions to relive, and I will not waste my time further. I will prove to them whether they're there or not that I will live filled with dedication. And even if they could go with me, but chose not to. I will respect their decisions wholeheartedly. I would still be a shit ton of depression. But I'll carry on their memories, our memories with them into the future that I still can't see but can visualize. Starting with here, at the present moment. I'll become more truthful, to my present self. I love them, but doesn't mean it would always go in my way, so no matter what happens they still hold a special place in my heart. Its corny as hell, but I love them so much. I've never felt this kind of love, so I want to take care of it properly."
-Myself looking at me-
"That's a whole ass monologue."
"Haha, yeah it is. I am only speaking from the heart"
Myself smiled and sighed, "You have grown quite well now. ... Have fun."
I nodded. everything went static and I'm back at the field of flowers. A door was apparent. I opened the door. And as I walked upon in these passage, I unlock the door before me and, I saw their worried little faces. And embraced me hard. "Haha see, I'm still alive"... "Klein." I said as I smile upon him. And our foreheads touched. "Anis..". His hands covers my face, while also warming it. And jessie embraced our legs also and said "And Jessie...".
A large door then appeared at the center of the room. It is shining brightly. Covered with nature.
"Shall we go?"
We marched towards the door made from light.
And everything went bright.