Hero Dyes - Blue

Bridget: The past five days were somewhat tortuous. Not only did I have to ‘reach deep down’ as Ellen continuously stated for me to use this summoning magic, but Yosin was training me on something I already knew how to do. I used this tactic when I fought against Magnus. Of course, he wasn’t there to see the fight. Speaking of not being present, the old sage wasn’t all there during those five days. He seemed more distant than usual. His very presence would distract me sometimes. I could feel his hurt and pain, but from what I had no clue. The only highlight of my training was seeing Ulrik. His training session actually taught me more than Yosin’s pathetic attempt to ‘teach me something new.’ I ended up sleeping with the poor guy because I felt bad for him. I’m not sure if he was trying to impress his father but, nothing any of us did moved that old man. He didn’t rush us nor did he hinder us. He was just there, emotionally disconnected. I saw the constant disappointment in Yosin’s face, so I decided to give him several hours of pleasure to distract him. I could tell it wasn’t his first time laying down with a woman. After that our training sessions were simply for fun. All I had to do now was recite the chant Ellen taught me and call on the name of the sword I want within my grasp. She blessed Ulrik’s sword and gave it a name, Demon’s Talon. She said her inspiration was Ulriks fight with the demon that was killing the villagers. Apparently he declawed the demon that had bird-like talons for hands. I didn’t care for the name or the meaning, I just wanted to get this over with.

Once we arrived we were welcomed with open arms. There were countless guards but none of them were checking for any time of verification that we belonged at the celebration. I heard several people say that he opens his doors for the feast everytime a tyrant is killed and he takes over their land. This made it easy on our behalf so no complaints there. Once I found a good spot to use the bracelet Ellen gave me to summon the old sage I activated it. As quickly as the old sage appeared he vanished from our sights. We were almost caught, but thanks to my quick thinking we dodged any suspicions. After Outis gave his awful speech about himself and only himself, I separated myself from Yosin. At this point I no longer needed him for the rest of this mission. It was all up to me now. Honestly I hated sneaking around and fighting in the shadows like a coward. Then again, at this point it might be necessary since there were so many innocent lives at risk.

“Ha ha!! Of course I’m Odin’s Son! I have his sword to prove it!! Ragna! Bring me my sword!!” He shouted as several women around him giggled and flirted with him.

“I swear to you, I’ll show you blade, then you’ll believe me!” He adds, to which one of the women giggled again as she grabbed his crotch and leaned in towards him.

“But all I want to see is the might of this blade. Slay me with it, if you will, please?” He chuckled at her discussing words. Of course he delighted in every word.

“In due time, horny fiend. I’ll bind and slay you properly! But first, my sword!” He replied, looking around for this so-called Ragna.

“Ragna, where art thou!”

“Here, my prince.” A tall slender man suddenly appeared behind him. He startled the women around him, as well as Outis himself. The prince just laughed it off and held onto his shoulder while doing so. The man didn’t look too pleased to be here. He seemed annoyed by everything.

“My prized mage! How are you? Why weren’t you here for my speech?” Ragna eyed him through his circular glasses as if bothered by the question.

“I’ve heard it several times before, my prince. It’s the same speech you give every time you conquer another land. I’m sure you’ve mastered it word for word by now.” He tells him as he slicked back his long hair with his fingers combing through it.

“Ha ha! You never know, I might have changed a line or two-”

“I doubt it, my prince… Now, what is your command?” Outis snapped his fingers with excitement as he stood back from Ragna.

“My sword, Ragna! I demand that you reveal my sword!” Ragna didn’t share his excitement as he sighed and eyes the prince once more.

“Which sword, my prince? The one in your pants, or the one in your quarters?” The women, and now men, that gathered around laughed at his joke. Outis was also laughing which drew more of a crowd.

“My dear Ragna, you slay me with your wit! Now enough stalling! My sword which lays in my chamber! Bring it to me!”

“Very well.” Ragna quickly replied. He unfolded his arms from behind his back and cupped his hands in front of him. His eyes suddenly locked with mine which paused his actions temporarily. He took me in for a moment, then closed his eyes and whispered something. He quickly extended his arms and a flash of light brought forth a large sword that was the size of Outis’s body. It floated in the air until Outis grabbed it which summoned a bolt of lightning to strike him. A puff of smoke covered his body for a moment. He spun his sword twice to evaporate the smoke, revealing his new attire. Black and gold armor outfitted his entire body. It was form fitting and seemed to expand his muscles greatly. A cape-like cloak with a hood draped behind him as he flapped it to the side to strike a new pose with his huge sword. The crowd cheered and clapped with delight.

“No other sword could compare to the great Gramr, the sword bestowed upon me by Odin himself!! Look at its power, its might, its glory!! Who dares challenge Prince Outis and his awesome blade! If none wish to challenge me then bow before Odin’s Son!” Once again the crowd cheered and bowed, or at least bent over a bit to show their respect for the prince.

“If you’re looking to stand out, then congratulations.” A voice came from behind. I gasped as I motioned to turn around. The man quickly stopped me and kept me facing forward. He was strong, powerful, and very tall. My eyes widened as I realized who was behind. I was in complete shock. How could Ragna move so quickly!

“Why are you standing alone, young lady?” He asked, to which my eyes narrowed as I realized he was right. I was captivated by his showmanship that I didn’t follow the masses when they flocked to him. My disapproval of the man must have planted my feet firmly where they were in protest of his boasting. Ragna’s grip got tighter the more I attempted to face him, which angered me more and more. I was unarmed and defenseless against this man. However, I didn’t want to waste the summoning spell on his minion.

“Do you plan on slaying the prince? If you do, I suggest waiting until he is asleep. Perhaps you should lay with him first, then strike him down once he is spent. That is, If you can endure his raging monster for that long. You don’t look as strong as they say you are. By the amount of effort you are putting into breaking my hold, I’d say you’re weaker than the alliance members gossiped about. You are the blue dye hero of the Golden Sage, are you not?” My heart stopped for a second as I lightly gasped. My shocked reaction gave him his answer. I opened my mouth to speak but he silenced me with a soft ‘shh.’

“Don’t speak, just listen to my words. I have a secret to tell you. I’m a Dye Hero Sage as well. I spotted your blue aura from the moment you entered the castle gates. Now, don’t get the wrong idea, I’m not on your side. I actually enjoy living forever. I’ve learned so much over the centuries.” He paused as he noticed Outis took interest in us for a moment before he returned to his boasting.

“I have very little time to spend with you before he disperses the crowd and comes over here, so let me make this quick. I gave you friendly advice on how to do away with the prince-”

“Are all traitors loyal to no one?” I quickly spat out, showing him that I wasn’t going to be bullied or frightened by anyone. He sighed as he shook his head, at least that is what I believe he did from what I could see out of the corner of my eye.

“My loyalty lies with Queen Damaris. I am her grand sorcerer, not Outis’s lackey. I care not for the prince. Kill him if you wish, I simply want the Golden Sage.” His aggression intensified his grip, making me wince slightly as I tried to hide the pain with a brave face.

“What do you want with the Golden Sage? What has he done to you?”

“He killed my brother, so I seek revenge. Hopefully if I end his life my brother will return to me.” I was terrified of this news. Yohan killed someone? There had to be more to this story, and I was hell bent on finding out.

“Tell me everything and I’ll give up the sage.” I quickly replied as we heard the crowd cheering once more.

“You better hurry. As you said, Outis will be making his way over here soon. Once that happens you’ll lose your chance to-”

“Alright, silence woman!” He whispered loudly out of frustration. This only caused him to grip me tighter as his sharp and pointed nails dug into my skin. I could feel the blood slowly escaping each spot his fingertips pressed into my arms.

“My brother was also a Dye Hero Sage. His last attempt to free all of Geminis brought him to Yohan’s second wife. She was a yellow dye hero under my brother. Of course, because of his several failed attempts, and the death of his first wife, Yohan was against her leaving with my brother. So, she left him instead and joined my brother anyway. Evidently he got her killed and failed the mission, something we sages seem to excel at. He returned to Yohan and informed him of the tragic news. This triggered the rampaging Golden Dragon within him. He killed my brother and the town in which he stayed in. Once again, the Red Knight appeared and slayed the Golden Dragon for the second time. And like before, he bound Yohan and carried him away. From that day on, all of Geminis was made aware that sages could kill other sages. Many died that day trying to stop Yohan. That is why the number of attempts dwindled. Yohan nearly wiped out all of the Dye Hero Sages that day. There, I told you everything, now hand over Yohan or so help me I’ll-”

“He is somewhere within these walls. Ellen used her portal magic to send him here. Once he arrived he slipped away from us. That is all I know.” I interrupted him as I noticed the crowd was slowly dispersing. Outis had finished showing off and was conversing with the masses. He was making small talk as he made his way towards us. My heart was beating so fast, I’m pretty sure he could feel it through my veins. He was holding me so tight that most of his nails were in my arms. It felt like tiny daggers slowly sliding into my skin, sinking deeper and deeper with each word he spoke. The thought of Yohan killing innocent lives stunned me. Honestly it might have numbed me from feeling the amount of pain I should be feeling from his death grip. I suddenly remembered an old tale the other knights used to talk about. They mentioned a Red Knight slaying a fire dragon of golden color. Some of them would say that the Red Knight was the tyrant’s champion. Some called him the anti-dye hero. He didn’t fight for the sages but for the tyrants. They were all inspired to be as strong as this famed knight. Could Yohan be this golden dragon of doom?

“He must be here for his parents… Thank you, Twin Blade Knight.” He suddenly released me which caused me to drop to my knees. My breathing was heavy as I felt like I was holding my breath the whole time. I shook my head as I focused on standing up.

“Are you alright, my lady.” Outis’s voice sang in my ears as he looked up towards him. His tone was gentle and charming. As he reached his hand out I saw him in a different shade of light. His guard was completely down. His sword was to his right, floating a few feet away from him. He was too cocky, or too trusting. Just because I was a female he automatically assumed I wasn’t a threat.

“I’m fine, just a little dazed from the fine ale your staff has provided.” He chuckled at my lie and bent down to my level, still providing his hand to aid me.

“Come now, you don’t need to lie. I’ve been watching you the entire time you entered this room. You haven’t had an ounce to drink, nor a small bite of food the entire time you’ve graced this room with your presence.” I lightly smiled as I combed a bit of hair behind my ear with my fingers.

“I’m also aware that you didn’t come alone. My guard apparently interrupted a tender moment between you and some weakling that doesn’t deserve you. Come with me, I’ll show you what a-”

“Not interested, fake demi-god. The one I came with would mop the floor with you in a matter of seconds.” I taunted as I swatted his hand away. I kept hearing Ragna’s voice in my head, telling me that I was weak and couldn’t compare to the likes of this man. I scoffed and rose to my feet as I continued to insult the prince.

“Hell, I’m even more than a match for you. You and that pathetic sword wouldn’t stand a chance against my might. If I can slay Magnus without breaking a sweat, I’m sure you’ll be no more than my training exercises at Lord Magnus’s training grounds.” His demeanor quickly changed as he stood up and puffed out his chest. I can see the anger within his eyes as his smile became twisted and evil.

“So, you’re an army bitch from Lord Magnus’s forces. What rank did you have before you betrayed one of the greatest warriors in all of Geminis?” He asked as his sword floated ever so slightly closer to him. This meant that he saw me as a threat, good.

“I was a High Knight, class three.”

“Ha! Ha-ha-ha! What a laugh! I was sure you were going to tell me you were at least a class four! Ulrik and Leon are a class seven! The highest ranking High Knight in his army! Besides Finnor, those two were the only ones to beat me in a fair sparring match! Finnor was a class six High Knight! What chance do you have against me!”

“Was that before, or after I nearly killed Finnor for trying to steal my swords?” His smile quickly faded as his eyes narrowed with hate. His sword floated even closer as he eyed me with disbelief.

“You’re Bridget, the Twin Blade High Knight. You made Finnor forget who he was. Sparring with him became too easy after his fight with you… What kind of evil spell did your demonic blades cast upon him.” His voice was no longer gentle and kind. His deep and aggressive tone made my spine sever as he continued to glare upon me. He was afraid. The only way to hide fear was with hate.

“My swords are not demonic. They are heavenly instruments given to me by the Lady of the Lake. The same angelic being that gifted King Arthur with Excalibur.” His right eye twitched as his upper lip quivered.

“Impossible. Why would an angel give a demon such weapons? If this is your way of scaring me into submission, then you’re wasting your time. I see no proof of the swords you speak of. Show me your strength, that I might test it and see for myself! Fight me like a true High Knight of the great Magnus! Everyone!! Leave this room!! Otherwise be killed by my mighty power as I slay this traitor!” He shouted as he raised his hand up. Lightning bolts began to strike anything and everything at random. No one was struck but the damage being done managed to scatter everyone out of the room. Within seconds, we were the only ones left.

“Hey! Are you deaf, boy! I said-”

“He is with me. Don’t worry, he won’t intervene.” I interrupted him as I also noticed Yosin standing several feet away from us. His disapproving glare distracted me for a moment before I fixed my attention back on the prince.

“Fine, show me your swords, High Knight. Let me feel the power of these fabled blades of yours.” He taunted as he took a few steps back. I closed my eyes and cupped my hands together, focusing on the spell Ellen taught me to say.

“Air, water, fire, and earth. These elements were used to give birth. To the thing I summon, come to me now. The name of the item I will shout… Sol and Luni!!” Suddenly my two swords appeared in my hands with a display of wondrous lights. The spell temporarily blinded the prince, which allowed me to make the first move.

“Ahh!!” He screamed as one of my swords ripped a large gash in his chest. It burned through his armor and sizzled his flesh. Blood splashed upon me as I followed through with another swing from my second sword. A loud clang rang in my ear as I felt a very heavy object push me off my feet as it deflected my sword. I stumbled to the side as I gripped my swords tightly. The force of his sword swinging at me nearly knocked away my attacking sword. What was most shocking was it moved on its own. He didn’t even have it in his hand. The large sword floated in front of him like a shield as he began to laugh.

“Is that all you got, pathetic High Knight?” He taunted as he tore his upper armor off.

“I can feel the magic within your blade. It not only burned through my armor and cut me, it also burned my skin at the same time. This is a stupid method of fighting. You pretty much wounded and healed me in one stroke. How are you supposed to let your foe bleed out if your swords burn the wound closed the moment it shreds it open.” I growled as he mocked my swords. I used Sol thinking I’d set him on fire, but instead I did exactly what he said. I remember fighting Magnus and using both swords at the same time. Sol burns while Luni freezes. Together they steam the wound and force it to bleed while boiling the blood within their body. All I have to do is strike him again with the other sword and cause the duo effect to take place.

“What, are you scared to fight me now?” He continued to mock me as I gathered my thoughts.

“Oh! I get it now. It’s my turn.” My heart raced with fear as he suddenly appeared before me. A loud thunderous boom echoed throughout the room as he swung his sword. I managed to barely dodge his attack but the tip of his sword sliced my right leg. I rolled a few feet and jumped to my feet, only to be greeted with paralyzing pain. Literally, my leg was paralyzed as I saw electricity surge through my leg. It bounced and danced in and out of my sink which caused pain every time it happened. Not to mention my leg couldn’t move. He began to laugh again as he watched the effects of his sword take place.

“That is but a taste of my power. I wager you won’t last the next several minutes. Once I have you pinned down and immobilized, I’ll tear your dress off and show you the power of my other sword. You’ll beg for mercy, I’m sure of it.” His despicable speech aggravated me to my core. Having said that, my core was trembling with fear. I could beat him, I know I can. I should have summoned Excalibur instead. Why didn’t I summon Excalibur! I can’t lose to this vile fake god!

“Hear I come, High Knight bitch.” A loud boom was heard once more, which indicated that he was on the move again. I was ready since his speedy movement was a dead giveaway by the sound it made. I felt his presence and motioned to dodge. I gasped as I realized he attacked me on the side that forced me to use my paralyzed leg. Instead of rolling out of the way I stumbled and staggered.

“Gaaahaa!!” I screamed so loud as I felt my torso surge with an overwhelming amount of electricity coursing through it. It was strong enough to send me hurling through the air as I smelled my clothes and flesh burning. I collided into several tables and broke them as they broke my fall, and possibly one of my arms. I grunted and groaned as my upper body twitched with every pulsating shock. It hurt immensely as I yelped a few times. My eyes were mostly closed until I saw the lights dim within my eyelids. I opened them slowly while fighting the pain that was surging through me. My heart began to panic as he stood over me, eying me with an evil smile as he held my corset within his hand. The blow must have burned enough of it off, not to mention through it as a good portion of my upper body was now bare. Suddenly a large man came hurling towards Outis from his right. He quickly reacted and stepped back as his sword quickly swatted him away.

“Oh!! Oh no! Thor!” Outis shouted as he hurried to his side. He quickly helped him up and scanned the area until he finally spotted Yosin fighting another strange man.

“What the hell. Why are you two here? You were supposed to be guarding Yohan’s parents!”

“My prince, I believe we were fooled by Yohan himself. A guard told us you needed our help. He said you were in great peril. Once we heard the combat from the dungeon we rushed to your aid. Only that man over there stopped us-”

“Blah-blah-blah! Tell Loki to keep Yohan’s son busy. Attack him together so he’ll stay occupied. It’ll give me enough time to get busy myself, and then kill this hero after I’m done with her.” He threatened as he stared upon me with a devilish look. That was why Yosin didn’t come to my rescue. He was fighting his henchmen called Thor and Loki the entire time. How pathetic was this. By now my leg stopped pulsating and was able to move. The effects of his sword don’t last forever, which means I still have a chance to kill this man. I struggled to sit up as this ‘Thor’ guy rushed back to fight Yosin. I screamed in pain as I felt his heavy foot press on my leg.

“Now, to have my fun with you. How should I-”

“Gilgamesh, aid my fight! Appear in front of me, this very night!” Suddenly my hair clip explodes as a flash of light summons Gilgamesh in the air. Once Outis lowered his arms from shielding himself his eyes widened as he gazed upon my savior, the wonderful and brilliant mask-seller, Count Masque’s true soul.

“Masque, is that you?” He asked with fear swelling inside him.

“Are you struggling this much against such a weak foe?” Gilgamesh comments with an evil tone. For a moment I was confused on who he was talking to as he kept his sights on Yosin and the other two fighting him. He snapped his fingers and suddenly two masks slammed upon their faces. They scream in horror for a few seconds before purple orbs burst out of the mask and race through the walls out of sight. Thor and Loki looked like empty husks swaying slightly back and forth. Yosin was confused until he saw Gilgamesh floating above me. His guard dropped a little as he watched carefully. Suddenly Outis roared with agonizing pain that nearly shattered my ears drums. I shifted my sight to see what caused such a reaction. I gasped and nearly gaged as his large sword was stabbed into his pelvis. The same effects that continued to paralyze and shock me took a hold on Outis. He flopped around on the floor once Gilgamesh pulled the sword out of him. Blood poured out from him as his frantic flailing slowed down. By now my torso was free of the paralyzing effects, which allowed me to slowly rise to my feet.

“Is he dead?” I asked as I stared upon the prince laying in a pool of his own blood.

“It doesn’t matter, your journey ends here.” Suddenly I felt my heart stop as two sharp blades punctured it. My body jerked about as the swords were driven into my body. I felt it when the tips burst out of my back. Tears started to stream down my face as my vision began to blur off and on. My shaking hands reached for the swords lodged into my chest. I slowly look down at my beautiful and elegant swords piercing my body. I slowly looked at Yosin who was screaming at the top of his lungs. Oddly enough, I couldn’t hear him. I just saw him running towards me until he collided with a dome-like barrier that prevented him from reaching me. I set my sights back upon Gilgamesh who stared at me with disgust.

“Why?” I uttered as loud as I could.

“Ulrik commanded it. He told me to end your life. I communed with before he turned into a demon. Once his transformation took over I had to wait for him to regain his senses. Once he did I revisited his request. It hadn’t changed. So I complied. ‘Kill me, or come die with me. Either way, my love for you never will.’ Those were your words, Bridget. Ulrik selected your death over his love for you. Since I ended your life, and I’m one of the rulers of Queen Damaris, you’ll be reborn in the Under Earth. I, Count Gilgamesh Masque, bid thee farewell.” I dropped to my knees as he finished his speech. Ulrik was loyal to the tyrants. I should have seen this coming. He didn’t waiver nor did he compromise his goals. Not even my love for him could break his bond with the tyrants. Just to think, I only killed one tyrant. Well, one and a half. At least Yosin was here to witness this outcome. Now he’ll be ready for it the next time they attempt this pointless mission.

“No, Bridget. This is your chance to prove yourself worthy of a goddamn sword that might not even exist.”

“I keep telling you to stop chasing the past! Live for the future with the ones you have in the present! Stop being so selfish, for once!”

He was right. My sweet Ulrik was always right. Who cares about some damn sword. I just want my love back in my arms. My body felt cold as it hit the floor. Thankfully I laid sideways so the swords wouldn’t drive deeper into me. Not that it mattered. Oh, was that Yohan’s parents with him in the hallway? I could see the resemblance. How nice it must be to have children. You can pass on your legacy through them. Mine ends here. Bridget, the foolish knight who thought she was worthy of Excalibur. Goddesses, I’m ready now… Embrace this foolish child, and forgive all my mistakes. Take me in your wings that I may be redeemed in the afterlife… Goodbye, kingdom of Geminis. I, too, have failed you…