Singularity

Kira strolled down the hall leaving Michalei to stare into the darkness and wonder. He made his way to the gate and stepped through the portal to Avalon. He walked down the hallway and checked in the throne room for Sephiroth. He wasn’t there so he continued up the stairs finding him in the library.

“My king,” Michalei bowed.

“Michalei, what can I do for you?” Sephiroth asked.

“It’s Kira, something’s not right. I’m worried about her.” Michalei replied.

“Well, that makes two of us. I’ve spent the better part of today trying to locate where Domascus would be hiding.” Sephiroth replied.

“Have you tried the castle at Credos?” Michalei asked. “I’ve heard tales that his father is still there.”

“Is that the name of the realm?” He asked surprised.

“Yes my king.” He replied.

“Just how would you know that?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

“I come from a village south of there. One decimated by the wrath of that bastard.” Michalei replied with a hiss.

“I see,” Sephiroth replied.

“You have many reasons to doubt me, king Sephiroth. Here and now I swear my loyalty to Avalon and the protection of it.” Michalei stated. “I shall prove myself to you and show you the home of the betrayer. I will protect you with my life if the need should arise.”

“I accept your pledge and your offer. We shall depart shortly. Wait for me here.” Sephiroth replied and disappeared down the hall.

Sephiroth reappeared a few minutes later. He was dressed in his traditional leather fighting gear and had his sword on his hip. He was ready for a fight, even though he walked with a limp and needed the help of a cane. Michalei followed him down the stairs and to the portal gate. It only took a moment for it to open into the darkest night either of them had ever seen. Thunder roared as they stepped through and they found themselves staring up the steps of Credos castle.

Michalei stepped in front of Sephiroth. “Let me go first my king.” He said.

Sephiroth nodded and followed Michalei up the steps and into the castle. As they walked through the foyer the lights flickered and came to life lighting the way forward into the throne room. As they entered the grand room they stood in the door way and looked around.

“I know you’re here.” Sephiroth growled at the emptiness.

“Have you nothing better to do than torment an old dying man?” The reply came from deep within the shadows. “What do you want from me Sephiroth?”

The man limped from the shadows. He was grey-haired, wrinkled, and extremely pale. His youthful body had gone and was nothing but skin covered bones.

“Where is Domascus?” Michalei demanded.

“What the hell are you talking about boy?” He coughed violently. “He’s locked up in Avalon castle. It has been so for seventeen years.”

“He escaped and killed Sephira. Then he attempted to kill my daughter Kira. You swear to me that you did not know of this.” Sephiroth stated.

“I haven’t been able to leave this place in ten years Sephiroth. In case you missed it, my health isn’t what it used to be.” He replied bitterly.

“He’s lying, my king.” Michalei stated and drew his sword. “My guess is this is Domascus and he is trying to fool us.”

“You just might be onto something Michalei.” Sephiroth drew his sword as well.

“Leave him be.” They heard from the shadows. “He is not me. But if it is me you are after than I am here.”

Domascus stepped out from the shadows and placed himself between his father and Michalei. He sent out a silent prayer as they moved upon him. Kira, I need you now. Please come to me. I am in danger.