embers of the shenrye

EMBERS

OF THE

SHENRYE Davey Mignott

(Artwork by Harutaka.)

http://harutaka.deviantart.com/

Davey Mignott Embers of the Shenrye

2 | P a g e

Before this book begins, I would like to take

the time to thank several different people.

Firstly, I want to thank my family and close

friends for the constant love and support they

have shown me throughout my life and for

pushing me to strive for greatness. Secondly, I

want to thank the people who took the time to

edit this story and help make it the best that it

could possibly be.

To:

Mrs. Crabtree,

Mrs. Potter,

Mrs. Gharib-Thedell,

Ms. Vozely,

Ms. Ashara Williams,

And my consultant, Mrs. Kayla Bulster,

Thank you for taking the time out of your

busy schedules to read this and offer advice,

opinions, and suggestions on how to improve

upon my writing.

And lastly, I want to thank YOU, the reader,

for checking this out. I hope you enjoy the

story Davey Mignott


4 | P a g e

CHAPTER 1

STRANGERS

FELIX, BEHIND YOU!!! Dontae yelled.

Norah heard an ear-splitting crash before diving

behind some wooden crates. She waited for a

moment before lifting her head, peering at the

outline of a giant, brooding man standing before a

large hole in the wall. The man raised his hand and

the air began to smell strongly of burnt. A burst of

electricity struck through the roof and landed

directly in his hand, running up and down like a

slithering snake.

There you are, you little punk, the man said in a

deep, husky voice before hopping over the fallen

rubble. Norah cursed under her breath.

An Obian marauder, here of all places?! she

whispered in disbelief.

Obians were a race of creatures that had an

anatomy similar to human beings. Or so Norah had

been told. The only difference is that Obians had

abnormally pointy ears and some had the ability to

manipulate an element of nature. Those Obians


5 | P a g e

were called Shenrye. The majority of Shenrye

worked for the Esye, defenders of Brion, a large

city surrounded by a massive circular wall. Few

who had no interest in that occupation or living

inside the city, left to join the many different

factions of marauders, looking to pick off the

innocent who happened to be in the wrong place at

the wrong time.

As she thought about that, she heard a loud metal

clang over to her right and the sound of several

crates falling over.

Don't get in my way. a voice called out from

where the crates fell. Another clang rang

throughout the warehouse before it became silent

again.

We both know I can't do that. Dontae said before

the two resumed their battle. Norah thought about

going over to help Dontae but Felix needed help.

How did I get myself involved in this mess? Norah

thought as she leapt over the crates, running

towards the hole in the wall. She paused for a

moment to survey the scene. She saw the man

holding Felix tightly by the throat, and holding a


6 | P a g e

ball made entirely out of electricity in his free

hand. Norah slowly unsheathed two small, silver,

and wickedly curved blades and silently made her

way to him in an attempt to knock him out. As she

approached, a piece of rubble unknowingly

appeared in her path and she accidently kicked it

out the way.

Another pest to deal with. the man said before

backhanding Norah viciously in the face with his

free hand, knocking her down. Her sword flew out

of her hand and clattered against the ground. The

world seemed to turn upside down as she tried to

sit up but she found herself unable to do so.

Now, where were we? the man turned his

attention back to Felix. Ah yes. Do you have ANY

IDEA, how long weve been looking for you and

your friend? His voice bellowed in Felixs ears.

Er...are you referring to me and Dontae? Felix

asked.

YES. the man said, spitting all over Felixs face.

It mustve been a really long time because your

breath is five seconds from making me pass out,

Felix said as he wiped his face, disgusted, Your


7 | P a g e

punch almost knocked me out but, man, Im sure

your breath could do the job just as easily.

The sound of Felix getting slapped in the face rang

clearly throughout the air.

Serves him right, Norah thought for smart-

mouthing a stranger with malicious intent.

I dont have time for your little games, Felix, the

man said. Hand over the package and I will make

sure that you and your little friends leave here,

alive.

Package? Norah groaned. She had no idea what

Felix and the stranger were talking about.

I dont believe, the stranger said as he walked

over to Norah and kicked her in the stomach, I

was talking to you. Norah cried in anguish before

spitting blood out of her mouth. Seeing it made her

extremely nauseous.

She slowly turned her head towards Felix who

cracked a smile, then threw his head back and

began laughing as if he just heard the funniest joke

in the world.


8 | P a g e

What are you laughing for? the stranger asked

nervously.

I dont have it.

WHAT!? Youre lying. the stranger whined.

Did you not hear me? I SAID, I dont have it.

Felix yelled, beaming with pride.

She saw that the mans grip on Felixs throat

tightened making it more difficult for him to

breathe. It became clear that he had pushed the

stranger to the absolute edge of the cliff. The ball in

his hand dissolved and the electricity that he

generated earlier came back around his arm once

more.

Norah desperately tried to find the strength to pick

herself up, but she couldnt find it. She could only

watch in horror as the man brought his free hand

towards Felixs face before she saw a boulder,

almost as big as her head, sailing through the air

and it collided with the back of the strangers head

with a satisfying crunch.


9 | P a g e

The man roared in pain as he dropped Felix and

turned around to see who his attacker had been.

There, outside of the hole in the wall, stood

Dontae, eyebrows furrowed, gripping his staff

tightly. The silence in the air unsettled Norah as it

turned into an intense staring contest between the

two men. Wasting no time, Dontae swept the

man's feet from under him with the staff and then

slammed him to the ground, knocking him out.

Dontae's expression softened as he helped Felix off

the ground and then walked over to Norah.

"Come on," he said as reached for her arm, "We

need to get out of here."


10 | P a g e

CHAPTER 2

SHATTERED TRANQUILITY

Dontae, with Felix and Norah following close

behind, carefully lifted the man off of the ground

and carried him back through the hole in the

wall.

Let me guess, Norah said to Donate with a

slight tone of interest, Earth Shenrye?

Yup. Dontae said, looking back with a grin.

And you, she said, looking at Felix, Water

Shenrye, right? Felix rolled his eyes like he

couldnt believe she asked him that. He made a

finger gun and pointed it at her face. She waited

for water to squirt her in the face, but instead, a

small flame ignited from the tip of his index

finger.

Thats cute. she said, feigning surprise.

I try, Felix said, shrugging his shoulders. How

about you? What can you do?


11 | P a g e

Norah felt her stomach twist as she willed the

ground to burst open and a beautiful rose

sprouted up. She crouched down to pick a flower

and then handed it to Felix whose mouth hung

open

Youre, youre..., Felix stammered.

A Nala Shenrye. Norah said with a satisfactory

smile.

The power to manipulate nature, Dontae said,

Weve never met a Nala before.

Why? Norah chuckled nervously, Are there

not that many of us around?

Dontae seemed to not hear Norahs question. He

stopped for a moment, then looked around as if

he lost something.

Whats the holdup? Norah asked, tapping the

floor with her shoe impatiently

Im trying to remember where I fought the other

guy, so we can put them together, Dontae

answered, scratching his chin. I think its this


12 | P a g e

way. he said, pointing to an area that was

stacked with towers of boxes. They walked and

carefully navigated through the crates. Sure

enough, the other stranger lay there, sprawled on

the ground. Dontae mustve hit him

unnecessarily hard because blood was dripping

out of his nose like a waterfall. They laid the body

of the Electric Shenrye next to his friend and took

a moment to catch their breath. Norah sat down

on a small crate, looked around, and took in her

surroundings.

A blanket of darkness covered the entire place

with the only source of light coming from the

windows. Wooden crates were scattered all over

the place, looking similar to a maze. The smell of

the crate next to Norah reminded her strongly of

the outdoors, fresh and clean. It helped to calm

down her nerves.

A wall made entirely out of glass, which she

couldnt see out of very well, sat directly across

from the entrance. As far as they were

concerned, Norah could sense that they were the

only ones in the warehouse, but that didnt stop

her from staying on guard. She brought her focus


13 | P a g e

back unto Felix, who was rubbing his face where

had gotten slapped, and Dontae, who was

cleaning his staff with his shirt. Aside from a

couple scrapes and bruises, they both looked

perfectly fine. Felix began to tap his feet.

"Dontae," Felix whispered, so quietly that Dontae

had to lean in to hear him. "Do you have the

package with you?"

Dontae grinned and slowly pulled out a small,

orange package from his back pocket which made

Felix sigh with relief. Norah stood up, trembling,

clenching her fists.

Thats what he wanted? she asked furiously,

grabbing Felix by the collar of his shirt. He raised

his hands in defense.

Hey, dont blame me. It comes with the job,

Felix answered.

Job?

Dontae, who sat there quietly spoke up, Felix

and I, are both Esye, you know, for the Onikhai,

the leader of Brion. He works in the Recovery


14 | P a g e

Division and I work in the Guardian Division. If

you calm down, we can explain everything to

you.

Norah let Felix go, sat back down, and closed her

eyes. I know all about the Esye, and the

Guardians, but, what is the Recovery Division?

All right. Well it basically boils down to this,

Felix said, fixing his clothes, The Recovery

Division is split into two separate divisions

within itself. First, are the retrievers. After the

Research Division gives them coordinates, they

go out and find artifacts that the Onikhai asks

them to find. When they get the object, they have

to bring it to a certain part of the city and thats

where we, the transporters, come in. We meet

with the retrievers and deliver the package to the

Onikhais Tower.

Norah scrunched up her face. Do you even get to

see whats in the package?

Felix looked down. Only if the Onikhai wants to

show us and he doesnt do it very often.


15 | P a g e

Norah shook her head. It doesnt sound like a

complicated job. she said, crossing her arms.

Felix stood up, staring at her incredulously.

Are you kidding?! You heard what those

marauders said. They were looking for that.

Felix said, pointing at the package lying on

Dontaes lap This is a top priority job. If we lost

the package, the Onikhai would have to exile us.

Seriously? Norah said, mildly surprised.

Seriously. Felix answered.

Well, Norah yawned as she got off the crate,

thats not my problem. Felix kicked a nearby

crate and began to take a couple steps towards

Norah before Dontae stopped him.

We dont need you! Felix yelled. Whyd you

come with us anyway?

I dont know! she said before storming off

towards the glass wall.

Norah, wait. Dontae yelled to her back.


16 | P a g e

Norah had been trying to figure out the answer to

that question ever since she arrived in the

Southern Zone. She had been walking around the

market, full of people selling various goods,

trying to search for certain supplies that were

unavailable near her home in the Northern Zone.

When she could not find what she was looking

for, she sat down at a nearby fountain, took off

her boots, and plunged her feet right in.

The water felt refreshing, helping her to relax.

Bystanders looked at her strangely but they

didnt say anything. Not that Norah cared. She

stared at her reflection and saw a beige skinned

girl with white spiky hair that had green tips at

the edge and two scars on her left cheek staring

right back at her. Everything was serene, or at

least it was for a moment.

She heard scuffling behind her, turned around,

and saw Dontae and Felix running for their lives,

as if something, or someone, was chasing them.

Dontae had dark, greasy, cropped hair, sporting a

long-sleeved black shirt and a pair of dark blue

jeans. Felix, who ran behind him, had short

brown hair, almost like a buzzcut. He wore a


17 | P a g e

green shirt with a black vest, and had on a pair of

khakis.

Which way should we go, Dontae? the short

one yelled to the one presumably called Dontae.

Over there. Dontae said, pointing to a nearby

alleyway.

They ran around the corner and disappeared.

Moments later, two hooded men popped up out

of nowhere and followed Dontae and Felix

around the same corner. Norah did not want to

get involved but something inside of her told her

that those guys were possibly in trouble. Norah

moaned in frustration as she hoisted herself from

the fountain, put her boots back on (which were

now soaking wet), and quietly followed the

hooded men without being seen. From there, she

followed them into an abandoned warehouse, ran

into Dontae and Felix, and the rest is history.

A very small part of her was glad that the two

were okay, but all the other parts regretted

coming along. Had Norah minded her own

business, she would have been able to enjoy

soaking her feet in the fountain near the market.


18 | P a g e

Instead, she had gotten herself lost in an area

that she had no familiarity with and had no idea

how to get home.

As she thought about this, Norah almost did not

notice that part of the roof broke off and fell

down where Dontae and Felix were standing.


19 | P a g e

CHAPTER 3

FLY OR DIE

By the time Norah wheeled around, the small part

of the roof had already fallen down, crashing

violently where Dontae, Felix, and the two

unconscious men were at.

NO! she screamed.

We're all right! Dontae shouted from afar.

Yeah, Felixs voice rang nearby, We moved them

over here.

Norah dashed towards the sound of their voices

while trying to avoid the falling debris. She found

all four men unharmed, but Felix's left arm was

badly bleeding from trying to escape from the

crash. Apparently, he seemed unfazed by it as he

continually shot flames from his hands to keep the

debris from reaching them. Norah thought about

using her powers but she did not think it would be

useful to defend the others. Besides, if Felix got too

close, she could seriously get injured.


20 | P a g e

We need to get out of here, NOW! Dontae yelled

as he began to launch boulders from the Earth to

destroy the debris.

What about those two? Felix yelled back over the

noise. Norah had almost forgotten that the two

assailants were still lying there, blissfully unaware

of the destruction going on around them.

We should just leave them. Norah suggested.

Were not going to do that, Dontae said, We can

carry them on our backs and rush out through the

entrance!

As he said that, a large piece of debris fell down

and covered the entrance, preventing them from

using it as an escape.

Dontae lowered his head, I dont think I can push

through that.

So much for that plan. Felix remarked.

Norah tried to think of an alternate escape route as

they were running out of time. She quickly scanned

the room, looking for any openings, and saw that


21 | P a g e

the glass wall was still intact. Suddenly, she had an

insane idea.

We have to jump out through the glass wall.

Norah said quickly.

Have you lost your mind!? Felix said in disbelief.

Maybe, but you gotta trust me, Norah said

calmly, Either we can take our chances and jump,

or we can stay here and get crushed to death.

Felix looked as if he wanted to try and argue, but

he didn't say anything. She noticed that his flames

were getting smaller and smaller with each throw.

Sometimes, he would keep thrusting his hand and

nothing would come out. Likewise with Dontae, his

boulders became the size of rocks, almost having

no effect on the debris. If they didn't move now,

they would be crushed.

All right, Norah, well go with your plan, Dontae

said, rolling out of the way as a large piece of

debris fell down where he once stood, Follow my

lead! He grabbed the Electric Shenrye and hoisted

him off the ground. He turned around and said,

You guys ready?


22 | P a g e

Ready when you are. Felix grinned.

They rushed through the warehouse with Dontae

leading the way, Felix hobbling in the middle, and

Norah bringing up the rear. They moved swiftly

while trying to avoid being smashed to pieces. It

was difficult for them to maneuver through the

fallen debris as Dontae and Felix were moving a bit

slowly because of the increased weight on their

backs.

The warehouse began to cave in and the ground

behind them sunk like quicksand. The glass on the

wall began to break into millions of shards which

fell towards the ground on the outside of the

building. Norah looked back and saw that the

warehouse had become nothing but a void of

darkness, as if the warehouse had become a beast

trying to consume them.

They were a few steps from the wall when Felix

shouted NOW!

Dontae nodded his head. He willed pieces of the

earth to form a gauntlet around his arm and with a

defying yell, he body slammed his way through the


23 | P a g e

glass and the five bodies fell from the warehouse as

the roof completely collapsed upon itself. Norah

immediately noticed that the warehouse was

several stories off the ground as they continued to

fall down. She heard Felix curse over the sound of

the wind and saw that they were falling awfully

fast. If they couldn't find a way to slow down or

cushion the fall, well, it probably wouldn't be

pretty.

FELIX! Dontae shouted to his friend.

Felix looked very uncomfortable carrying an

unconscious stranger and falling to his death but

he looked up and nodded.

If you can shoot your flames downwards, we can

descend much slower. Dontae yelled.

I used the bit of my energy throwing fireballs at

the debris, Felix shouted back. I'm out of juice.

To prove his point, he thrust out his hands and

nothing but sparks emitted from them. Dontae

glided over towards Felix and grabbed his

shoulder.


24 | P a g e

Dontae, what the heck are you doing?! he said in

surprise.

Nothing happened for a moment, but then Felixs

arm began to glow.

Dontae...what did you DO?! he asked in

astonishment.

Dont you remember? Its a technique that Esye

can use to help each other out in combat. Norah

knew what he was talking about. Upon becoming

an Esye, an Obian is required to have the Onikhais

symbol, four swords going across a four sided star

in different directions, tattooed on a place of their

choosing. The tattoo was not only for show. It had

the power to transfer energy between Esye. Norah

noticed that they were close to the ground. They

were running out of time.

Do it now Felix, NOW! she yelled, grabbing onto

Dontaes leg.

At the last minute, Felix sent a full force of fire

through his left hand, which thankfully didnt hurt

Dontae, Norah or the strangers at all, and they

started to descend to the ground slowly.


25 | P a g e

Aw, yeah! Felix said with pride. Whos the best

Obian now?

They remained suspended in mid-air when Felixs

flame started to encase his entire arm in fire.

Luckily they were a couple feet from the ground

when Dontae quickly let go, dragging Norah and

the two men down with him. She sat up and saw

Felix, panicking, trying to put the flames out.

DONTAE, NORAH! Felix yelled in alarm. Move

back! My powers, theyre acting up. I cant control

it. Felixs entire body seemed to be devoured by

the flames. Norah barely had time to try to protect

herself before Dontae brought up a wall of Earth to

protect himself and everyone else from the blast,

but the force was so great that it sent her skidding

and she crashed into a nearby wall.

When she opened her eyes and looked around, she

saw Felix, burnt to a crisp, sprawled on the ground,

looking up at the sky. To his right, Dontae was

sitting on the wall, struggling to get up. The

strangers were on the left, still lying unconscious.

Felix! Are you okay? Dontae groaned.


26 | P a g e

Felix lifted his head. Yeah, I feel fine except for

the scrapes and bruises from earlier. The burns

will heal on their own.

Dontae looked relieved. The package flew out of

my pocket when you exploded. You gotta hurry

and-

I know, I know. Felix grumbled Dont worry

about it. Norah noticed that the package Dontae

had earlier was a couple inches from Felix. He

stretched out his hand to grab it when a dark figure

dropped down next to him, grabbed his arm,

flipped him over, and punched him in the back of

the head.

Dontae, stumbling to get up, threw a punch

towards the stranger but she dodged it and

punched him directly in the stomach. He looked at

her in pain before she punched him in the face,

knocking him out cold. The dark figure picked up

the package, slipped it into a pocket, and casually

strolled up to Norah. Norah tried to move her body

but her strength had left her. It was a miracle she

was still breathing. As the stranger neared closer to

Norah, she realized it was a woman. Her short

blond hair dangled in front of her beautiful face,


27 | P a g e

looking eerily similar to a figurine, but it was

slightly marred by a scar on the right side of her

lips. Her blue eyes seemed to be made of ice which

disturbed Norah, as if the woman was looking right

through her soul. She laid one of her freezing cold

hands upon Norahs neck which made her body

shiver. It felt like she was literally turning Norah

into an ice cube.

The woman drew her other fist back and punched

Norah hard in the face, making her slump over and

pass out.


28 | P a g e

CHAPTER 4

NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Norah felt her head ringing as she woke up,

finding herself on a soft bed. She looked down

and noticed her torso wrapped in bandages. She

sat up, looked to her left and saw that Dontae

and Felix were also wrapped in bandages,

occupying the beds that were next to her.

Dontae! Felix! You doofuses awake? No

answer. Great, Norah thought. Did the blond

woman take them hostage? Were they waiting

to be killed? But if that were the case, how come

all three of them werent tied up? Norah looked

around, trying to figure out where they were at.

The vastness and emptiness of the place strongly

reminded her of a cavern. There was a large

pentagonal platform in the center of the cave

which had a spiral design etched across it. Norah

tried to figure out what it could be, but she had

no idea. On top of the platform sat a ladder that

went all the way to the roof. Surprisingly, it

didnt smell dank or musty like most

underground areas might. Looking down below,


29 | P a g e

Norah saw several streams running throughout

the cave. The streams looked deep enough to dive

in if the 3 of them attempted an escape. But she

didnt want to test that theory. At least, not yet.

There were 4 corners on the platform, each

having distinct setups. One corner had been filled

with all sorts of technology and gizmos that

began to make her dizzy. A nearby bed is filled

with tons of precarious stacks of different books

and papers, giving Norah the impression that the

owner never slept on that bed in their life.

Another corner had training equipment such as

dumbbells and weights. The third corner was

simple by comparison. A small bed and a large

metallic closet, which might be filled with combat

gear or weapons, occupied that space. The fourth

corner had nothing at all except a small green

sofa, the color resembling moss on a tree. It

could hardly be seen because it was covered by a

black veil. The place started to look similar to

Norah, but she wanted to try something to

validate her assumption. She tossed a roll of

bandages towards one of the cavern walls and it

came right back at her.


30 | P a g e

Force field. I thought so, she said, shaking her

head.

Figured it out, Norah? a voice called from the

center of the platform. Norah looked over in that

direction as a middle-aged woman in a simple

black dress with long, flowing, dark brown hair

mixed in with a few streaks of gray, and eyes with

irises that looked completely purple, walked over

to her.

Zabrina. Norah said rolling her eyes. Norah

had a rough history with Zabrina, ever since they

met long ago. Norah ran away from home at the

time. She had lived a fairly average life until she

came to the realization that she was different.

She had never met someone with the same

perplexing white hair that she had. Or the deep

scar on her cheek that made her

look...disturbing. At a certain point, Norah

realized she had nothing in common with the

people who she called, Mom and Dad. That

only made her burning desire to know about her

history, who her real parents were, burn even

brighter. But no one could give her the answer

she longed for.


31 | P a g e

Every time that someone who genuinely cared for

Norah tried to get close to her, she almost always

turned them away. To the point where she almost

declined Zabrinas offer to take her in, and care

for her. Zabrina treated Norah as if she were

Zabrinas own daughter, but Norah felt that

Zabrina know more about Norah than even she

did. Sometimes, Zabrina would look at her with

such sadness, Norah guessed that Zabrina

remembered something awful.

But instead of sharing a painful tale, Zabrina sat

down on a nearby chair with a little smile on her

face.

Glad to see that youre awake. she said quietly,

ruffling Norahs hair. Norah pushed her hand

away, frustrated.

Howd you find us? And howd we get here?

Norah asked.

Well, Zabrina said, folding her legs, I tried to

get in contact with you through your

communicator. Zabrina pointed to a faceless

communicator sitting on a desk next to Norah.


32 | P a g e

It kept saying that I could not contact you which

meant that it either malfunctioned or broke. I

immediately asked Konnyr and Arthur to come

with me to the last location where your

communicator was online and we found you

three in the Southern Zone, lying near the

remains of a recently destroyed building.

Three of us? Werent there more? Norah said,

moving her legs off the bed.

No. It was just you three. We checked all of you

for injuries. The one with the black hair-

Dontae. Norah said.

Zabrina glared at her and then continued,

Dontae, sustained the least injuries. His head

was bleeding a bit so we bandaged it. You had a

couple of bruised ribs which wouldve left you

unable to move or fight for a few weeks.

Thankfully, your powers amplify the recovery

rate so you should be fine in a few hours. The

one of the far left, however, Zabrina said,

pointing to Felix.


33 | P a g e

Felix? Norah said, slightly confused, Is

something wrong with him? Zabrina walked

over to him, lifted his left arm, and pulled down a

couple bandages to reveal a bunch of black veins

running up and down his arm.

Wha......whats happening to him? Norah said,

slightly horrified.

I believe that he is turning into a Monakura, a

dark beast. Zabrina said, lowering his arm back

down on the table. A Monakura? Norah had

never heard of that before. Norah planned on

asking Zabrina about it when Felixs right hand

burst into flames, and he thrust it directly at

Zabrinas face.

Are you sure you want to do that? Zabrina said,

immediately grabbing his wrist, After I saved

you? Felix extinguished his flames and Zabrina

let go of him.

You saved us? he asked, his voice sounding

hoarse.

Well, it wasnt just me. Zabrina shrugged.


34 | P a g e

Who are you? Dontae said, sitting up on his

bed. His right eye looked swollen.

Well, Zabrina said, gently brushing off her

dress. I believe I should introduce myself. I, am

Zabrina. she said, extending a warm hand of

welcome.

Felix reached out to shake her hand when Dontae

spoke up.

Call me crazy, he said, but would you happen

to be the Zabrina-

Who was the very first Obian in existence?

Zabrina said, folding her arms with a smirk.

That would be me. Norah didnt think it was

possible, but she was genuinely shocked when

she saw Felixs jaw drop lower than it did earlier.

Dontae, however, didnt look impressed as his

eyebrows furrowed.

You dont believe me, do you? said Zabrina

with a slightly dry smile.

Sorry, Dontae said, not looking very sorry. But

anyone can say theyre the Zabrina. Even if you


35 | P a g e

are Zabrina, legends say that shes been dead for

several decades.

Felix got over his shock and nodded his head in

agreement. Norah thought that they were either

very brave or very stupid.

Zabrina rose her hands innocently in the air and

laughed. All right, she said. You got me. But

would you be so kind as to follow me to the

central area over here. All three of you should be

able to walk perfectly fine. Dontae, Felix, and

Norah got up out of their beds and followed her

into the central area. Near the area filled with

technology, Norah saw a portly man with curly

black hair, even shorter than Felix, throwing

punches in the air. Next to him stood a lanky,

balding, and blond man, reading a book.

Konnyr, Arthur, Zabrina called, Come over

here and meet Dontae and Felix. The curly-

haired man saw them, stopped punching the air,

and ran over to them.

Yo, Im Konnyr! He said, introducing himself,

giving Dontae and Felix high-fives, and Norah a

bear hug.


36 | P a g e

Easy, easy, on the ribs, little guy. she said,

smiling.

Hey, Konnyr scowled, Im older than you. Just

remember that.

Sure thing, Norah said, flicking his pointy ears.

She saw Dontae looking at her, smiling, but then

he turned away just as quickly.

And this, Zabrina said, is Arthur. The other

man put his book down and looked at Dontae

and Felix.

Er, Dontae said nervously, Nice to meet you,

sir.

Likewise. Arthur said monotonously while

shaking Dontae and Felixs hands. He turned

towards Norah and raised his book again.

Ms. Hanorah. he said uninterested. Norah felt

her eye twitching.

Arthur, she said trying to restrain herself.

Could you please just call me, Norah?


37 | P a g e

As you wish, Ms. Hanorah. he repeated. Norah

turned back to see Felix burst out laughing and

Dontae waving innocently.

Anyway! Norah said so loudly that it rang

throughout the cave. I think that these two,

looking directly at Dontae and Felix, do not

believe that I am the same Zabrina from Obian

legend and I would like to kindly prove them

wrong. If that is okay with you gentlemen?

Zabrina turned around with her back facing

everyone. As she turned, Norah almost didnt

notice that Zabrinas eyes turned from their

shady, dark purple into a bright lavender and

that her hands were glowing, consumed by

flames. Norah, Arthur, and Konnyr took several

steps back.

Dontae looked at Norah, confused. What is she

doi- It happened so fast that Norah barely had

time to blink. Zabrina shot the two fireballs

towards Felix and Dontae, the latter who wasnt

paying attention and was struck full force in the

chest, knocking him back. Felix, surprisingly,

jumped up and intercepted the other ball in


38 | P a g e

midair. Coming down, he thrust the flames back

at her. Zabrina calmly raised her hands and a

massive amount of water from below the cavern

burst out of the ground and everyone except

Zabrina and Arthur, the latter who stood several

feet away, were dosed with water. Zabrina willed

the water to descend back down to ground.

Norah and Felix ran over to Donate and helped

him off the ground. Dontae looked fine except for

the hole in his shirt.

Dontae lowered his head, clearly ashamed. Im

sorry for doubting you Great Zabri-

Sorry, Zabrina interrupted. But Zabrina is

perfectly fine.

Its...er, quite an honor to meet you he finished

as he and Felix bowed down in embarrassment.

Its quite all right, and the pleasure is all mine.

she said with smile. Youre not the first person

Ive had to do that to. She walked over and

patted Dontae on the shoulder. Its nice to meet

you both, Dontae and Felix. I bet youre

wondering how I am currently here right now


39 | P a g e

even though legends have said that I have passed

away after the First Onikhais ruling. Well-

Zabrina. Norah interrupted. Everyone turned

their attention towards her which made her

regret calling her name. They need our help.

Zabrina stared at her with such seriousness, she

almost felt as if she did something wrong.

Zabrina looked back at the boys.

Yes, she said rubbing her chin. We need to

have a discussion in the infirmary immediately.

She motioned for everyone to follow her back

into the room. Dontae, Felix, and Norah sat

down on their beds while Norah willed three

chair, made entirely from smooth stone, rise

from the earth for her, Arthur, and Konnyr to sit

on. Well, she said rubbing her hands together.

Let us begin.


40 | P a g e

CHAPTER 5

FOUNDATION

Norah thought Dontae looked nervous. Having to

retell their quest to three new strangers would

probably not be the most comfortable thing in

the world. But Arthur, who continued to read his

book, Konnyr, who kept looking at the ground,

and Zabrina, who fixed Felixs bandages, werent

really paying him any attention. After he

finished, Zabrina said that she needed to have a

private discussion with Arthur and Konnyr and

left Norah, Dontae, and Felix sitting in the

infirmary. They sat in awkward silence for a

moment before Felix spoke up.

So...are Arthur and Konnyr your brothers? he

said. Norah began to laugh and Dontae joined in.

What? Felix asked confused.

Felix, Dontae said, shaking his head, Do they

look alike at all? Once Felix realized his error, he

lowered his head.

Its okay. Norah said, leaning over and shaking

his shoulder, trying to make him feel better. She


41 | P a g e

could appreciate his naivitiy. We do have a sort

of family vibe, dont we? You could say Zabrina is

the mom, and Arthur, Konnyr, and I are the

children. Zabrina found them both, the same way

she found me. Wandering on the streets as

teenagers, living in the Eastern Zone. They ran

away from home because the relationship

between Konnyr and his biological parents, lets

just say that it was very rocky. They argued and

fought so much that Konnyr believed that his

family didnt want him anymore.

Jeez, Dontae said, thats terrible.

Yup, Norah agreed solemnly, He went to

Arthur one day with the idea of running away

from home, so they didnt have to worry about

anything else. Arthur, at first, thought it was the

dumbest idea that hes ever heard in his life. But

on the other hand, Konnyr happened to be his

friend and didnt want something horrible to

happen to him. The following day, they packed

up and left.

Dontae grinned. Arthur is a good friend.


42 | P a g e

Norah smiled. It wasnt too soon that they ran

into Zabrina who took them in and made them

enlist in the Esye so theyd have something to do

instead of sitting around doing nothing. Arthur

applied and made it in as a Security Technician.

Their job is to monitor anything suspicious

throughout Brion and report it to the Guardians.

Konnyr tried to apply for a position in the

Guardian Division, but he didnt get in because of

two reasons. One, you have to be able to

manipulate an element of nature, which Konnyr

is not able to do. And two, he got into a fight with

an Earth Shenrye after they told him that he

didnt get the job.

That reminds me of Felix. Dontae said before

Felix chucked a nearby shoe at him.

Anyway, Norah said, throwing Felix an irritated

look, After about twenty years, Arthur retired

and came back to live here. All of this, she said,

extending her arms out, Arthur and Konnyr

built this together. A little while after that,

Zabrina found me and you both know the rest

from there. Felix got up and gave Norah two

thumbs up.


43 | P a g e

Well, Felix said with a grin, I think you guys

are okay in my book.

Same here. Dontae agreed. The more Norah

hung around Dontae and Felix, the more

comfortable she began to feel. Before anyone

else could say anything, Zabrina, Konnyr, and

Arthur walked back over to them. Arthur placed

his book down on a nearby shelf and fixed his

glasses.

I believe I know of a way to retrieve this

package. he said. Felixs face lit up like a light

bulb. Norah may or may not have told you this,

but long time ago, I worked as a Esye in the days

of the Fifth Onikhai, which is where I met

Zabrina.

That reminds me, Felix blurted out, rudely

interrupting Arthur, Did she look the same as

she did now? Norah and Dontae both shot him

dirty looks but Zabrina just laughed as if she had

heard this before.

Not at all. As youve heard from Obian legends, I

am indeed the first born Obian, possessor of the


44 | P a g e

four central elements that make up our world.

Air, Fire, Water, and Earth. There are also the

sub-elements such as Nature, and Electricity and

more. But these main four, more specifically,

Earth and Water, are the foundations of our

world.

Anyway, I lived up until Brion turned from a

mass of emptiness into a world full of life. At the

time around my death, my spirit faded from this

world and I appeared in the Spirit Realm, where

Obians go when they die. It wasnt too soon when

my soul was called back into the world of the

living and my spirit resided in the body of a

chosen individual that can hold my soul within

them. It is sometimes difficult because for two

souls to exist in one body, they have to merge in

order to coexist peacefully. The soul that I had to

merge with loved to fight which is why I do not

mind getting into a brawl here and there.

So its basically, reincarnation...right? said

Dontae, slowly taking that in.

Correct. Zabrina answered.


45 | P a g e

Thats amazing. Dontae said impressed.

Thats kinda creepy. Felix said noticeably

disturbed.

Either way, can we let Arthur finish? Norah

said, tapping her feet. Zabrina looked away in

embarrassment.

Ah yes, Arthur said putting down his book

again. Norah hadnt noticed he started reading it

again. Well as Ive said before, I was an Esye,

and my job was to monitor questionable activity

from the Onikhais Tower and inform the

Guardians if something troublesome was

occurring. When I retired, I was able to set up a

monitor here, similar to how they were at the

tower. I can use to it locate where the package is.

Felix started fist pumping the air before Zabrina

walked over and gently lowered his arm back

down on the bed.

Arthur, Zabrina said, Do you think you could

start the search immediately?


46 | P a g e

That much, he said closing his book. I can do.

before walking away to the area filled with

technology

Zabrina took a deep breath, and found herself a

seat. The room became silent for a moment

before she directed her attention towards

Konnyr.

Should I tell him? Konnyr asked Zabrina.

Norah wondered who they were talked about it.

No, I think I will. Felix. Zabrina said, turning

towards Felix who happened to be picking his

nose.

Aw, dude, Dontae said, scrunching up his face

in disgust. Zabrina shot water from her right

hand, which got all over Felix, and then blew air

from her left hand, drying him off.

...as I was saying, wiping her hands on her

dress, Felix...Im sorry. But youre turning into a

Monakura.


47 | P a g e

A Monakura Felix laughed nervously. He

mustve thought it was joke but when he looked

around, no one else smiled. What is that?

Zabrina walked over to Felix and pulled off his

bandages to reveal the black veins on his arm.

Felix looked as if he had just got punched in the

face.

Wha...what, he stuttered.

A dark beast, Zabrina said wrapping his

bandages back up. Its one of two

transformations that a Shenrye can achieve and

its also the most dangerous. You are well aware

of them, right?

No, Dontae said. We never even knew that

Shenrye could transform. They never taught us

that.

It makes sense, Zabrina said scratching her

chin, that the Onikhai would not want it taught

to the Esye, especially the Guardians. The Obian,

more specifically, the Shenrye, have two different

transformations that are said to enhance their

power, tenfold. Not every Shenrye can transform


48 | P a g e

however. Only a select few who have a high

enough energy within them will be to accomplish

this. When the Shenrye is in a moment where

they experience an extreme emotion, from

happiness to anger, to even, grief, their souls

perish from their bodies.

What? Felix cried.

Hold on, Zabrina said returning to her seat.

Let me finish. Their souls are momentarily

trapped in a different dimension where they

must face their own personal insecurities in the

form of a monster. If they can overcome the thing

that is holding them back, they can achieve the

transformation into a Rygon, which is the other

transformation that a Shenrye can achieve. Every

Rygon looks different when they transform. For

instance, Wind Shenrye sprout wings and

generate air from their body. We would be

floating off the ground if we were standing close

to one.

Huh. Thats really something. Dontae said.

I agree, Zabrina said, nodding her head, But

sometimes the battle with the monster is not


49 | P a g e

easily fought. If the Shenrye cannot overcome

their insecurities and lose the battle with the

monster, their soul is left in that dimension and

the monster overtakes the body, therefore

becoming a Monakura. Transforming into either

a Monakura or Rygon is extremely dangerous

and it starts to show up on a Shenryes body

when they are close to transforming. You all may

not know it, but Felix is much more powerful

then he looks.. I fear, however, that his

insecurities, whatever they may be, will be the

death of him.

Norah thought that Zabrina might as well have

stabbed Felix with the sharpest blade that could

be found. His face looked grave, looking at

everyone with worry in his eyes. The room

became tense for a period of time and then

Norah noticed that Felix began to glower. Norah

could have sworn that she saw a dark glint in his

eye but it disappeared just as quickly.

I cant just give up now, Felix said, his voice

swelling with pride, I have to finish the job. You

know what happens if I dont deliver the package,

right? Nobody said anything but Norah knew


50 | P a g e

what they were all thinking. Exile, or worse,

death. After the rule of the First Onikhai, a grand

council, made up of several individuals chosen by

the people, created a law that forces the Onikhai

to banish any Esye from Brion who have failed to

do their job properly. Norah has no idea what lies

beyond the borders of Brion, but it probably

wasnt safe and she didnt want to find out.

Konnyr rose up from his seat and punched his

fists together.

Well, you wont have to get it back by

yourselves, he said grinning from ear to ear,

You know kid, you remind me of me when I was

your age. Very stupid and reckless. I like that.

Youre still stupid and reckless. Norah

whispered under her breath. She thought Konnyr

wouldnt catch that but he shot her a dirty look

which made Dontae and Felix laugh. Even

Zabrina smiled a bit.

The best that, you can do, what we can do, is

help you keep your emotions in check, Felix.

Zabrina said as her smile faded from her face.

Even though I have only known you two for


51 | P a g e

several hours, I wish to see you both accomplish

your goal. All of us, Norah, Konnyr, Arthur, and I

will help you both retrieve the package. I

promise. Norah honestly thought that she would

have objected to being volunteered for a retrieval

mission but being around these Dontae and Felix

made her soften up her attitude a bit.

Felix, Zabrina with concern. I want you to be

careful. Although your arm is still functional, I

would not put too much pressure on it. It would

be troublesome, if I had to fix it up again.

Zabrinas face darkened which made Felix shift

uneasily on his bed. Trust me, Felix, you and

Dontae will both need all the help you can get

and we need to make a plan. However, Zabrina

said, looking deadly serious. We need to train

you both, now.


52 | P a g e

CHAPTER 6

THE HIDDEN SECTOR

It came as a bit of a surprise when Zabrina told

Norah that all of them were going to be training

outside. Norah trained only with Zabrina inside

of the cave, mostly because Arthur did not want

to throw, "any unnecessary punches" and Konnyr

thought that he was the best at fighting. Even

though Zabrina has beaten him whenever they

sparred.

"Whenever you're ready, follow me." Zabrina said

before she compressed the air around her and

used the pressure to boost herself up towards the

ceiling and climbed out.

"Lazy." Norah scowled. Not knowing if it would

be hot or cold outside, Norah put on a cream

colored blouse and a pair of black jeans. She and

the others began to climb the ladder. When they

reached the top, Norah gasped. She couldn't

believe her eyes. It had been a long time since

she's been in the Northern Zone, her home. They

stood in a large clearing, surrounded by a wide

forest. The grass made a crunching sound

wherever they stepped. In the distance, Norah


53 | P a g e

could make out several tall buildings which made

up the downtown sector of the zone. The

coldness of the air made her spine shiver. It

seemed as if the blond woman from earlier stood

behind Norah, placing her cold hands on Norahs

shoulders.

Norah placed a hand on one of her blades,

preparing for a fight. When she wheeled around,

she only saw Arthur, reading his book. She heard

Konnyr sigh heavily.

"Could you remind me why you're always reading

a book. They're lame." Konnyr said. Arthur fixed

his glasses.

"If you actually picked up a book every now and

then, you would be a lot more educated on a lot

of things. Things such as the history of our race,

the Obian. Arthur said coolly.

"Well," Konnyr said, "what more do I need to

know except that we have large pointy ears and

that most of us can mess around with the

elements of nature." Zabrina started to chuckle.


54 | P a g e

"That's all you can remember?" Zabrina said,

legitimately surprised.

"It's all I care about." Konnyr answered with a

satisfactory smirk. Zabrina shook her head,

clearly frustrated by Konnyr's lack of knowledge.

"Anyway, follow me, please." Zabrina said

irritably, walking into the forest, heading into a

direction that Norah has never seen before. As

they trudged along, Norah noticed that the bark

on the trees started to look older and ancient.

She also didnt hear any more sounds beside the

six of them walking. No sign of life or any

creatures anywhere. Norah never thought that

she would find herself thinking this, but being in

this area really bothered her.

"Where exactly are we going, Zabrina? Norah

asked while she began to rub her arms to keep

warm.

Hopefully we get there soon. Dontae said

anxiously.

Felix chuckled nervously. Youre not scared of a

little bit of nature, are you?


55 | P a g e

Not necessarily, Dontae said, looking around,

It just feels like someone or something is

watching us. Norah thought that Dontae

mightve been seeing things but she got the shaky

feeling that he might be right.

They reached a couple of trees that were

obscuring their path. Norah walked around to

one side of the trees, hoping to see if there was an

alternate way to go, but she had no such luck.

I know that the place is beyond the trees.

Zabrina said, rubbing her wrist. Felix flicked his

finger and a small flame lit up.

I think I can take care of it. he said with a smile

which Norah thought looked evil while being

illuminated by the fire.

NO. Norah shouted. He immediately put the

fire out.

I can do this. Norah assured. She crouched

down and pressed her hands against the earth. A

few roots popped up from underground and

wrapped themselves around her fingers.. The

thick trees slowly began to shrink until it became


56 | P a g e

the size of a shrub. Even then, it got smaller and

smaller until it became the size of a seed.

Nice job. Felix said, sarcastically applauding

Norah. She picked up the seed and flicked it at

Felixs face. Zabrina coughed loudly, clearly

trying to get everyones attention.

Lady and gentlemen, Zabrina said, beaming

with pride. We have arrived. Norah didnt know

what she thought she would see, but it definitely

did not match with what she really saw. A sector

full of run-down, dirty, and rusty buildings. The

doors were hanging off the hinges and the

windows were broken. The air smelled stale and

gross, as if rotten food had been lying around all

over the place. Norah doubt that any Nala would

come here of their own free will. This sector

absolutely disgusted her. In front of them stood a

small sign that said in big bold letters, DO NOT

ENTER. CONDEMNED.

Zabrina, What are we doing here? Norah said

with agitation rising in her throat. Zabrina

looked at Norah bewildered, as if she expected

Norah to have the answer to that question.


57 | P a g e

To train, of course. Why do you think I brought

us all the way out here? There are no civilians to

get hurt and we have enough room to unleash

our maximum power. Zabrina bounced up and

down like a ball.

Dontae pulled his staff out and leaned on it. I

have one question, if you dont mind me asking?

Technically, that was two questions, but go

ahead. Zabrina said, taking a seat on the ground.

Howd you found out about this place?

Zabrina looked over at the buildings. It was

almost two decades ago. Before I found Konnyr

and Arthur, I used to live in this sector for a short

while. However, the Onikhai wanted this sector

to be blocked off from the public for reasons that

I do not understand.

Arthur took off his glasses and started cleaning

them. Have you been back ever since?

Er...no, Zabrina answered. But I am absolutely

sure that there are no problems and if there are,

we can handle it.


58 | P a g e

Arthur put his glasses back on and sighed

heavily. Thats reassuring.

Konnyr, who seemed the least bothered about the

rundown sector, smiled and said, So, how does

the training work? Im ready! He began to throw

some punches in the air which Norah thought

looked embarrassing. She scooted several inches

away from him.

I thought youd never ask. Zabrina smiled. She

reached into her back pocket and pulled out six

different colored metallic wristbands. Two of

them were gold, two were silver, and the last two

were bronze. Everyone will be split into teams of

two. Your goal is to keep your metallic wristband

from being destroyed. If you are the first one to

have your wristband broken, you will not be

going on the mission to retrieve the package.

That includes you, Dontae and Felix. This

training will test everyone on endurance,

strength, and ability. Do your best and try to be

the last team standing.

What about the teams? Felix said from behind

them.


59 | P a g e

Ah, thank you, Zabrina chuckled. Almost

forgot about that. The Gold Team, will be Konnyr

and I. Of course they are, Norah thought. Two

powerhouses on the same team. It makes sense.

The Silver Team will be Dontae and Arthur.

Zabrina continued, tossing them their bands.

With their intelligence, they could prove to be a

tough team to beat.

Unfortunately, that meant that, "Norah and Felix

are the Bronze team." Zabrina said, finishing

Norah's thought for her. Zabrina tossed Norahs

and Felixs bands towards them, which they

missed because they started to complain. Norah

secretly hoped to be placed with anyone besides

Felix. Why would Zabrina place two of the most

stubborn, even more than Konnyr, Obians on the

same team? Felix picked up his wristband and

started fastening it on.

"Zabrina," Felix said, "I think this is a big mist-

Zabrina cleared her throat loudly, again, I would

advise you all to hide because if one of us finds


60 | P a g e

you, we will not hesitate to hurt you in an

attempt to destroy your wristband.

Harsh. Dontae muttered.

Anyway, Zabrina continued, you now have one

minute before the training start. Best of luck to

you all, and may the best Obian win." After she

finished, Zabrina and Konnyr dashed around the

corner of a nearby building, disappearing from

view.

"Jeez," Norah said, face palming herself, "We're

so going to lose."

"Think positively, Ms. Hanorah." Arthur said

before he walked over to Dontae, grabbed his

arm, and launched them both into the air. They

hovered for a moment before Arthur carried

them over to the buildings on the right. They

vanished from sight. Norah turned her attention

towards Felix whose jaw hung awfully low.

"I didn't know Arthur was a Wind Shenrye." Felix

said, trying to recover himself.


61 | P a g e

"Well, maybe you should've asked." Norah said

with a bit of attitude. Felix stomped his foot

down.

"All right, you know what? You-" Norah covered

her ears, ignoring Felix, and checked her bronze

wristband. She hadn't noticed it before, but she

saw the number 15 written on the band. Then it

changed to 14. Then to 13.

"A watch, Norah suddenly realized, Felix,"

Norah said as she grabbed his wrist and pushed

his hand towards his mouth, effectively shutting

him up, "we have to hide, now." She ran towards

the left with Felix right on her heel. They hopped

over a broken window and crouched down as low

as they could. Norah checked her watch.

5.

4.

3.

2.

1.


62 | P a g e

They waited in silence. Then, the whole building

shook violently and began to sink into the

ground, threatening to collapse on them.


63 | P a g e

CHAPTER 7

AND THE WINNER IS

Dontae. Felix said, looking impressed.

Of course hed try to take us out as soon as

possible.

No, its not. Norah said, wiping dirt off her face.

She could feel her heart beating fast against her

chest. Its Zabrina.

How can you tell? Felix asked.

Think about it, Norah said, If you were

Zabrina, who do you think would pose a bigger

threat. Us? Or Arthur and Dontae?

Arthur and Dontae. Felix said proudly.

NO. Norah yelled in frustration. The ground

where Felix stood at began to sink quickly into

the ground. Norah pulled him over to her as the

earth consumed it. Arthur and Dontae might be

a good combination, but their strength lies in

their knowledge. Zabrina would want to


64 | P a g e

eliminate the second most physically powerful

team which would be you and I.

Makes sense, Felix agreed. WATCH OUT. A

nearby beam fell and almost crushed them when

Felix sent a full force of flames out of his hand,

disintegrating the beam completely. The

supports to the building were weakening rapidly.

Norah looked around, trying to find a way out.

Straight ahead of them were stairs that lead to

the upper level. She noticed a window at the top

of them.

There, Norah said, pointing towards it. She and

Felix both leapt over the hole in the ground

which got bigger and wider, climbed the stairs,

and jumped out the window. Thankfully, they

werent too high off the ground. They landed with

a loud thud and looked up at the sky. Zabrina

hovered high above them, smirking.

Have you lost your friggin mind? Norah yelled,

throwing a nearby rock at Zabrina.

Not entirely. Zabrina answered. She pushed her

hands outward and a large ball of flames burst


65 | P a g e

from her palms. Zabrina shot it towards them at

high speed. Norah started to shake a little.

I dont know if I can block that. Norah

muttered. As she began to run, she turned back

and saw that Felix bounced up towards the ball of

fire and kicked it straight back towards Zabrina.

Zabrina blocked her face as the fireball collided

with her and exploded. Felix landed back down

and examined his feet, which were black with

soot.

Ah crud, he said, trying to dust his foot off. I

really liked those shoes. Norah looked at Felix in

astonishment. He deflected the fireball and acted

as if it were nothing. She wondered what he

would be able to do at full power.

Felix began wiping his elbows. What do we do

no- Konnyr interrupted him by turning him

around and punching him directly in the

stomach, making Felix collapse. He hoisted Felix

off the ground and reached for his bronze

bracelet when Norah planted a kick directly on

Konnyrs chest, sending him flying several feet.

Norah stood in front of Felix.


66 | P a g e

Leave. Him. Alone. Norah said, unsheathing

her twin blades. As annoying as Felix could be,

they were still partners, and Norah had to protect

him. Konnyr picked himself up.

Little Norah decided to get serious, huh?

Konnyr said, motioning for her to bring it on.

Im going to break your wristband. Norah

replied, dashing towards him. She thrust her

blade directly towards Konnyr left wrist, where

his wristband sat. He quickly deflected the attack

with a metallic cuff on his other arm. He went for

a quick jab at her legs but she blocked it with the

flat of her sword. Norah rolled back as Konnyr

swung upwards and stood up. They clashed with

each other, sword versus fist, going at each

others throats. Norah began to slip up, however.

When Konnyr threw a quick punch towards her

arm, Norah did not have enough time to block

the hit. She fell to the ground with a loud thud.

Konnyr walked over, aiming his arm for her

wristband when two vines burst from the ground

and latched around his wrists.


67 | P a g e

What the? Konnyr said, trying to shake the

vines off. Norah grabbed one of her swords and

swung towards his wrist when a long metallic

pole came from nowhere and stopped her attack.

Norah gritted her teeth.

Dontae. she said, looking up. Dontae leaned

over her, smiling.

Sorry, Dontae said, not looking very sorry, his

wristband is mine.

Oh really? Konnyr said, mimicking Dontaes

voice. Norah and Dontae looked up and noticed

that Konnyr broke out of the vines. He grabbed

Dontaes staff and whacked him in the chest with

it. Norah saw her opportunity to attack. She

flipped her sword so that the butt faced upward

and hit Konnyrs gold wrist band so hard that it

broke into hundreds of little pieces.

NOOOOO. Konnyr howled. He fell to his knees

and began pounding the dirt.

Oh, get over it, you big baby. Norah said. She

turned her attention towards Dontae, who

rubbed his chest where Konnyr poked him at.


68 | P a g e

She pointed one of her blades towards him.

Dont hold back.

I dont plan to. Dontae replied. He swung his

staff towards her head and she parried it away.

She rolled forward and struck towards his

wristband but he deflected the attack. Norah

recovered quickly and punched him directly in

the chest. Dontae gasped for air and fell to his

knees, dropping his staff out of his hands. Norah

gasped.

Dontae, are you okay? Norah said, worriedly.

He looked over at her in pain and suddenly the

ground around her exploded, knocking Norah

several feet in air. As she fell, a bunch of flowers

and plants sprouted out of the hole, almost

forming a bed. She landed softly on them and got

back on her feet.

That was a cheap shot. Norah said sounding

vaguely impressed.

Thanks. Dontae said, rubbing his head.

But, your opponents out in the field will not give

you a second chance. Once youre down, thats it


69 | P a g e

for you. You have to learn how to utilize your

powers as best as you can. Otherwise, you wont

get stronger.

Norah could feel something inside of her

rumbling. As if something ancient awoke inside

her. Her senses became enhanced. The pungent

smell of the air became stronger than before and

her focus became sharper, being able to notice

the details of the buildings and grass around her.

Norah peered into her blade and saw her

reflection. The green tips around her hair

disappeared completely and a green symbol,

three lines enclosed in a circle, almost like a leaf,

burned brightly on hair forehead. She looked at

her arms which were covered with dark green

veins. They almost looked like vines. Her brown

irises looked completely pitch black. Norah

turned her attention towards Dontae who looked

terrified.

You, Youre a Rygon? He spoke, looking

completely bewildered.

Not exactly. Norah answered calmly. You

could say its a failed transformation. Somewhere


70 | P a g e

between transforming into a Rygon, I sort of had

trouble dealing with my insecurity. I physically

beat it. But, mentally, it remained there. As a

result, this is what I transform into. I guess you

can call it a Semi-Rygon or a Saigon.

What problem did you have to deal with?

Dontae asked. Norah clenched her sword a bit

tighter, she noticed that there were now deep

green Obian markings engraved onto it. She

didnt understand what they meant.

Dont worry about that. Worry about me.

Norah threatened, looking Dontae directly in the

face. She rushed him with blinding speed and

rammed into him. His staff flew out of his hand

as he landed on the ground. He turned over and

crawled on his stomach trying to reach it.

Not this time. Norah said as she forced a thick

vine to erupt from the ground and wrap itself

around Dontaes left foot. She willed the vine to

throw him in the air. Norah made her vines form

a spring and used them to boost herself off the

ground towards Dontae. In that moment, it felt

as if time slowed down. They were facing each


71 | P a g e

other now, Dontae staring directly into her eyes

and Norah staring into his. She whipped out her

blade and slammed it into his silver wristband,

disintegrating it into nothing. Dontae fell back

towards the Earth and crashed with such force

that it made a hole in the ground.

Two down, Norah said as she landed, two

more to go. She looked around, trying to find

Felix but she didnt see him. She turned and

looked down the road. At first, she didnt see

anything. But then, Zabrina materialized from

thin air.

Is that the best you can do, Norah? Zabrina

yelled. Zabrina rocketed towards Norah, using

her flames to accelerate the process. Norah

dropped her blades on the ground.

I thought youd never ask. she said with a

smirk. Norah ran towards Zabrina, jumped off

the ground and sent her fist colliding with

Zabrinas. The ground exploded from the

pressure and an explosion ensured, leaving

Norah helpless as she fell to the ground and

passed out from exhaustion.


72 | P a g e

CHAPTER 8

INTO THE ABYSS

Norah suddenly awoke and found herself on the

cold, hard ground. She sat upright, rubbing her

eyes.

"What the heck happened to me?" she moaned.

Norah realized that somebody had brought her

back to the cavern and dropped her on the

ground.

"You awake yet?" A familiar voice to her right

called. Norah turned and saw Felix and Zabrina

putting on some sort of dark combat suit. She got

up and walked over to them. Zabrina tossed

Norah the same exact combat gear that she and

Felix were wearing.

"Congratulations," Zabrina said solemnly, "you

all completed the training and you, Norah, are

the winner of the battle."

"What?" Norah said, dropping the clothes out of

her hands.


73 | P a g e

"If you might recall," Zabrina said as she sat

down to fasten on a pair boots, "when you and I

clashed, the energy that we released blew apart

the center of the sector. There were no more

buildings after. When everyone came over, they

said that we were both unconscious. And

apparently, my wristband broke off."

"But mine didn't?" Norah asked flabbergasted.

"Are you joking?" Zabrina reached into her

pocket and held up a burnt metallic wrist band.

Norah could hardly see anything but charcoal.

On the edges, however, Norah saw a bit of

bronze. Zabrina placed the wristband on a

nearby counter. Norah began to chuckle.

"Oh, Zabrina. You're not bummed out about

losing, are you?" Norah teased. She knew that

Zabrina did not like to lose challenges of any sort.

Zabrina's face turned red and she looked down.

"Don't be foolish," Zabrina answered, "Everyone

is able to go on the mission except Arthur as his

wristband broke first, courtesy of Felix." Zabrina

said, looking disappointed. Norah turned

towards Felix.


74 | P a g e

"How'd you break Arthur's wristband? You were

lying on the ground after Konnyr punched you."

Norah said mystified.

Felix cracked a smile. "Well, after Dontae rolled

onto the scene and came between you and

Konnyr, I saw Arthur standing a few feet back. I

lunged towards him and shot his wristband off

like this." Felix made his hand into a gun and a

small flame shot out from it. It hit the wall and

disappeared into smoke.

"Show off." Norah muttered but she smiled.

"Where is Arthur and everyone else right now?

Arthur went outside to try to secure the hatch

up top and Konnyr and Dontae went to stand

watch over him," Zabrina answered, "the

Guardians of this zone are looking for whatever

caused a disruption in the hidden sector." Felix's

skin turned into a sickly shade of white.

"You mean, I could've lost my job if they found

us?" Felix said, chewing on his nails.

"Probably." Zabrina shrugged. Felix looked as if

he wanted to faint.


75 | P a g e

"Oh yeah," Felix said, looking embarrassed, "I

almost forgot, thanks for...thanks for protecting

me." That comment shocked her. She didn't

expect Felix to ever say something like that. At

least to her.

"Well, what are teammates for?" Norah said,

smiling. Zabrina poked Norah hard in the

forehead.

"Hurry up and get dressed. We have to move

out! Zabrina said, putting on gloves that had

metal knuckles stitched onto them.

"Now?" Norah questioned, throwing her arms in

the air in exasperation. Before Zabrina could

answer, Norah heard a loud, screeching noise

from the top of the ladder. Seconds later, three

dark figures descended down the ladder. Norah

thought that Guardians had found them, but it

turned out to be Arthur, followed by Dontae and

Konnyr, both wearing black combat gear similar

to everyone else's.

"How's everything looking up top?" Zabrina said

skeptically.


76 | P a g e

"Fine...for the moment." Arthur answered,

dusting off his clothes. "The hatch is locked down

and hidden from view, but it sounded as if they

were awfully close. They should pass by with no

suspicion.

Good, good. Zabrina said, although she looked

back at the hatch, as if she expected something

else to come down.

That reminds me, Arthur said as he looked at

Norah, I almost forgot to tell you since you were

passed out. But the woman who stole the package

from Dontae and Felix, I found her location. He

motioned for her to come over to him. He

pressed a button on his watch and a holographic

scene popped up. Norah couldnt see anything for

a moment but then the fuzziness disappeared.

Her short blond hair waving in the wind, her

bright blue eyes surveying the area, her menacing

scar sitting on her lips. There was no mistaking

it. It was the same woman who knocked Norah,

Dontae, and Felix out. Norah felt her hands

trembling. She couldnt believe that she had been

knocked out so easily. Fortunately for them, the


77 | P a g e

w0men was holding the package that they were

looking for.

Where is she now? Konnyr said, cracking his

knuckles together. We can go and get it back.

Shes in the middle of the Eastern Zone. I dont

know the name of the building, but Im familiar

with the area. I heard from the surveillance that

they were planning to ram through the border to

bring the package to their boss who lives in the

lands to the east. Unfortunately, we only have a

few hours before they move out. Going through

the entrance to the Eastern Zone and dealing

with security would be a hassle which is why I

suggest for all of you to travel underground.

That, is why Ive been trying to tell you to hurry

up! Zabrina said, tapping her foot impatiently.

All right, all right. Norah said, trying to avoid

the glare that Zabrina gave her. She started to put

her combat gear on. Lets do this.

Youre not nervous, are you? Zabrina asked.


78 | P a g e

Who, me? Norah said, pointing to herself.

Never. Norah knew that what she said wasnt

the complete truth. She had no idea what to

expect.

How about you, Felix, Dontae? Zabrina asked

again, directing her attention towards the boys.

Me? Felix said, pointing a finger to his chest.

Im ready to take names, and beat up anyone

who gets in my way! To prove his point, he

threw a swift kick in the air and immediately fell

down.

Apparently so. Zabrina said, trying to stifle

back a laugh. Dontae walked over and picked

Felix up. Felix began to dust his clothes.

Im as ready as Ill ever be. Dontae said, looking

almost as nervous as Norah felt.

Zabrina nodded. Well, lets get a move on, shall

we? We dont want to be late. Everybody form a

circle.

All five of them stood in a circle in the middle of

the cavern. Felix looked around crazily, as if


79 | P a g e

expecting them to be shot in the air or something

but nothing happened. He looked over at Dontae

but he seemed just as confused as Felix was.

Er, Zabrina, Dontae said nervously, Is

something supposed to happe-

The ground began to rumble and the area they

were standing on began to sink into the ground.

This is a platform? Dontae and Norah asked

excitedly.

That is correct. Arthur yelled proudly. He

waved goodbye and then walked off to where

Norah couldnt see him anymore.

Felix immediately tripped which made Norah

and Dontae chuckle. Konnyr walked over and

helped him up. Felix saw them and silently swore

to get him back. The platform continued to go

deeper and deeper into the ground until it

reached the bottom. It seemed as if the platform

had brought them to the sewers. The smell hit

Norah right off the bat. It smelled extremely foul.

Like some creature crawled in here and died. It


80 | P a g e

immediately reminded her of the hidden sector,

only ten times as worse.

The lights down there made it surprisingly well

lit but that didnt stop her from feeling nervous.

Norah could only imagine how horrible it would

be if an Obian got lost down here.

Guys, Felix said, looking at Zabrina, and

Konnyr. Do you know how to get there?

To the Eastern Zone? Konnyr scoffed. Of

course. Follow me. Norah followed the others on

the trek through the sewers. Norah appreciated

the fact that everyone else was on high alert

because they had taken so many left and right

turns that Norah began to lose count. The path

they were currently on began to grow wider, and

wider until suddenly, they emerged into a large

chasm. One so deep, Norah had no doubt that it

lead to the center of Brion. Norah noticed an

opening on the other side of the chasm which

would probably take them into the Eastern Zone.

But she didnt see how they could make it across

safely.


81 | P a g e

Welp, the last time I came this way, a bridge was

right here. Konnyr said miserably.

So, what do we do now? Felix asked, scratching

his head.

Zabrina shook her head, I cant see any paths

that would make any sense and all of my powers

are useless here. Carrying all five of us towards

the opening on the other side is impossible for

me.

What if we worked together, Zabrina? Dontae

proposed. He looked over to the other side and

smiled. We could summon a giant rock bridge

that we could use to cross to the other side.

Zabrina nodded in approval.

That sounds like a plan to me. she smiled.

Everyone took several steps back as Dontae and

Zabrina crouched down, pressing their hands

against the ground. The ground began to shake,

similarly to when the platform descended into

the sewers, but the vibrations were stronger.

Norah didnt see anything happen at first, but

then, two rough, gigantic slabs of rocks popped


82 | P a g e

out from both sides of the chasm, moving at an

awfully slow pace. At last, the two slabs

connected together with a loud rumble and now

the group could continue forward. Norah stepped

forward and carefully placed one foot on the

bridge, and then she placed the other.

Feels sturdy enough. she said.

It is, for the time being. Zabrina said as she and

Dontae both got up off the ground. Because of

our combined power, the bridge will be able to

stay up for approximately seven minutes. After

that, it will crumble into nothing. If we are still

on it when it does, it wont be pretty.

On that happy note, lets move, now. Norah

said, continuing forward. Dontae and Zabrina

followed her lead. Konnyr went after them and

Felix brought up the rear. Great, she thought

pessimistically. Because 0f the large size of the

chasm, its taking us longer to cross. It made

Norah nervous with each step she took. It would

only take one wrong move for them to fall into

whatever lie at the bottom.


83 | P a g e

When they reached the middle, Konnyr started

sniffing extremely loudly and said, Do you guys

smell anything burning?

Konnyr, stop playing around. Norah said, but

she turned around and saw that Felixs hands

were glowing brightly, just as they had been at

the warehouse. Everyone wheeled around,

staring at Felix in shock. He fell to his knees as

Dontae ran over to him

FELIX!? Dontae yelled.

Stay...back, Felix said holding his hand out,

motioning for Dontae to stop.

Dontae, GET DOWN, NOW! Zabrina yelled.

Felix closed his eyes, his body now glowing,

giving off extreme heat. Konnyr picked Dontae

and Norah up with ease and made a mad dash for

the other side. Zabrina ran towards Felix and

then, he exploded. The sheer force of it the

explosion destroyed half of the bridge and threw

them all backwards. Norah could see Felix hitting

the wall, close to where they entered,

embers of the shenrye

Documents

g e chapter

shenrye davey mignott

obians davey mignott

g e table of contents

majority of shenrye

wrong time

wooden crates

brooding man