The Multi-Universe Written Fiction of Supreme Epic
Posted: Sat Oct 25, 2008 5:51 amFinally the sequel to Fanfic of Awesome! This, however, is a tad different from Fanfic of Awesome; it is both serious and joking equally. It takes on a more serious tone, but still parody on things that happen/have happened in the past. Enjoy.
The Multi-Universe Written Fiction of Supreme Epic
Prologue: Aftermath
Something brewed in the cursed land beyond Skull Island...the RPG's past condemning it to house this gateway for the rest of eternity. The residents of the RPG universe had been living in peace ever since the Writer was destroyed, but all could feel the calm before the storm. The beings that emerged from the gateway had pure intentions, unlike the Writer, and some had become allies with the residents, the few that actually showed themselves in the realm. All were powerful, everyone knew that fact, but they had no desire to harm the residents. Now, the gateway pulsated, creating an unnatural storm, which stretched from the gateway itself, across the barren plains in front of it, and was slowly seeping into Skull Island. The red lightening caused by the hellish storm made it impossible for any of the Gate Keepers, those who were tasked to watch the gateway, to prevent another like the Writer from causing havoc once more, to stay near the site itself. Word began spreading like wildfire throughout the realm about the storm, FRPG and SHRPG on high alert, being the most powerful forces the realms had to offer. Soon the calm would end, and bring forth another threat, greater then even the Writer...
Chapter 1: The Calm
Sandstorm yawned lazily, resting soundly on a large boulder. Beside him, body parts rained down, the screeching and laughing of Steeltalon and Darkness echoing through the area, which had no effect on him what so ever. Reaching out a clawed hand, the sandy raptor managed to snag a head as it was hurled through the air, digging into the meat lazily, eyes still half shut. After a few minutes, the Ninja Raptor Squad lay in pieces scattered across the island, Darkness and Steeltalon trotting happily over to Sandstorm, covered from head to toe in blood, none of which was their own. "Any meat left?" Sandstorm growled, now on his back. "I think a leg came past here. The rest is a bit too small to eat..." Steeltalon growled, scratching her head nervously. Darkness had layed down on top of the cliff, his eyes only visible to the others below, which were shifting from one side to the other, watching the forest around them. "Any word from Rawclaw and Silver?" Sandstorm growled, opening an eye to look at Steeltalon. "Ya, they have a kid now. Peddle or something, I really didn't pay attention..." Steeltalon growled as if it was common knowledge. In the background, Darkness had rolled off of the cliff, bounding toward the forest behind them as they spoke. "That's nice...And Fatalis?" Sandstorm growled as a compy sailed overhead, followed by Darkness. "No clue. Last time I heard from him, he was visiting Crusher." Steeltalon growled, Darkness throwing a punch at the compy behind the talking raptors, which caught his fist and slapped him across the face, causing him to fall into a bush, the compy jumping in after him. Sandstorm looked to the left of Steeltalon, nearly falling off of the rock as Fatalis stood next to him, only able to catch a glimpse of a swirling blue and black portal closing behind the raptor. "How the...?" Sandstorm began, Fatalis shrugging as if it was nothing. Steeltalon shook her head, Darkness and the compy now fencing in the background, wielding long, thin swords, both evenly matched. "So how've you been Fatalis?" Sandstorm growled, sitting up finally. "Good I guess. You?" Fatalis growled, the two both shaking their heads, still not used to the fact that Fatalis had a voice. "Great actually, nice and pe-" Sandstorm began, only to be interrupted by Fatalis. "Well I've been amazing." the raptor growled, grinning. Sandstorm rolled his eyes, resisting the urge to chuck the rock next to the one he was sitting on at Fatalis's head for obvious reasons. Darkness finally swiped the sword out of the compy's hands, a triumphant "AH HA!" echoing around the area as he stepped on the compy. Backflipping onto the cliff once more, the compy carcass was immediately covered by bird sh*t, which fell from the trees above in great amounts. The three raptors' heads turned as an explosion sounded from the edge of the island, the color fading from each of them, their expressions showing their concern. Standing, the group of raptors trotted into the jungle, the explosion sounding near where Silver and Rawclaw had settled, the group fearing the worst for those who they considered family...
Chapter 2: The Storm
As the group headed toward the eastern edge of the island, a variety of creatures crossed their path, all being natural residents of the island, but were moving away from the source of the commotion, looks of fear on their faces. Even massive creatures such as Tyrannosaurs and Giganotosaurs turned tail and fled, and soon they saw the reason why. Scorched trees greeted them as they neared the edge, screeches of pain and fear coupled with explosions sounding in the distance forcing them to a halt. They had arrived at the nest to find it abandoned, the trees that used to surround it now burnt or fallen...and there was no sign of Rawclaw or Silver. "What the hell is going on here?!" Steeltalon snarled in frustration, everyone in the group, even Fatalis, unaware at what was happening around them. As if on some unseen que, a burnt tree was suddenly crushed, causing the raptors to spin around to face the sound. Where the tree had once been, now stood a massive three-pronged foot, made of metal, not flesh, a massive curved leg arching up into the sky, connecting to a single massive structure. Two other legs stomped into view, the group now able to see the full behemoth before them, watching as its three legs crushed ash and burnt wood underfoot. The structure, what seemed to be the metallic horror's head, had two large glowing eyes, which seemed to be more like spotlights then eyes. As its shining eyes rested on the group, the machine unleashed a moaning wail, which caused all of the raptor to flinch from the volume of the sound. The machine stomped toward them, the bottom of its "head" suddenly covered in snaking tentacles, which snapped the air in front of the machine eagerly. "MOVE!" snarled Sandstorm, shoving Darkness toward the opposite end of the area, away from the machine, trying to get the group moving. Snapping out of their stunned state, the others bolted away, speed fueled by fear as they neared the seemingly untouched part of the jungle. The machine thundered behind them, the group able to hear its massive footfalls behind them, wailing as it walked. Suddenly, in front of the group, another wail shook the air, followed by the appearance of yet another tripod behemoth looking over the trees, shining eyes staring directly at the raptors. "What do we do now?!" Steeltalon growled frantically, trying to keep both machines in sight, which were slowly nearing the group. "Go left! Head into the dense trees!" snarled Fatalis, the others taking no time to wonder how he became so useful to their survival, bolting off toward where Fatalis had mentioned. The machines stomped after them, wailing in unison as they did, watching as the raptors disappeared into the thick foliage ahead. As they had hoped, the machines' pace now slowed dramatically, unable to keep the chase going with the massive trees standing in their way. This, however, did not slow the raptors' pace, the group bolting off toward the other end of the island, praying that it was not under siege by the same terrible machines. After another twenty minutes of running, the lead raptors, Steeltalon and Fatalis, began panting heavily, Sandstorm and Darkness following soon after, unable to continue at such a rapid pace. "Lets...lets just take a minute...to catch our breath..." panted Sandstorm, flopping against a tree without giving the others time to answer, though they soon joined him. "What...what was that?! I've seen...human monsters before...but nothing like that!" snarled Steeltalon, gasping for breath between each word. "I don't know...this doesn't seem like the humans' doing...They were coming from the east, near the Super Hero RPG, right?" Sandstorm growled, shaking his head. "Ya...that's only a few miles from Skull Island...do you think the defenses have failed?" Darkness panted, referring to the Gate Keepers and Skull Island as a whole. "They must have...Sorna is in the middle of the chain, its impossible for them to simply show up here!" Steeltalon answered, standing up shakily. "I'm going to look around...If I don't return in twenty minutes, get to FRPG without me." the female raptor growled, nodding to each of her comrades before trotting off into the foliage around them. FRPG was their goal now...if anything stood a chance, it was Inferno and the rest of FRPG. How fast the machines consumed the island, however, was another issue at hand...while they rested, the machines could be right behind them, preventing them from getting to safety. For now, however, the raptors rested, hoping that Steeltalon would return, and with good news...
Chapter 3: The Damage
The group, now one member short, waited...and waited...and waited some more. Steeltalon was no where in sight, and the sound of horrified screeches, pained roars, and other sounds were keeping the group on edge, convincing them that the area was no longer safe, if it could be considered that in the first place. "...We have to get moving..." Sandstorm growled finally, Fatalis and Darkness looking up at him. "No, I won't le-" Darkness began, suddenly becoming very serious, Sandstorm cutting him off swiftly. "You heard what she said! She knew what was at risk, and she went anyway. This is a sign, a sign that the coast is not clear, and we might not be able to get to FRPG if we wait any longer!" Sandstorm snarled, causing Darkness to stare off into the jungle where Steeltalon had disappeared, nodding blankly after a few silent moments. "Alright then...lets get moving. If you hear anything, say so. We can't take any chances." Sandstorm growled, finally standing, Fatalis and Darkness doing the same, the trio of raptors heading solemnly off into the jungle beyond. The same horrific sounds followed them their entire journey, yet they saw few of anything, natural residents or invaders. The trio avoided the burnt destroyed jungle, for obvious reasons, following the surviving jungle toward the coast. Not even bodies were in sight...it sent chills through all of them, even Fatalis. The trees themselves were devoid of life, whether it be monkeys, birds, or even bugs, all were gone...whether they had fled or were simply dead, the group did not know. Sandstorm at the head, the trio of raptors walked silently for what seemed like years, the tension in the air almost sickening. Suddenly, Sandstorm stopped dead in his tracks, causing Fatalis to bump into him, Darkness doing the same to Fatalis, only to have Fatalis shove him back several feet. "Quiet!" Sandstorm snapped, preventing Darkness from picking up the branch he was looking at, the three raptors not moving a muscle, simply listening to the jungle around them. Nothing but the distant horrors...then a snap. "Somethings here...it isn't friendly, we haven't encountered a single soul for hours. Get ready to run like hell..." Sandstorm hissed quietly, all three staring in the direction of the noise. Suddenly, an object whizzed through the air, grazing Fatalis's shoulder, causing the raptor to grunt in pain at the suddenly attack. The projectile stopped behind them, embedded into a tree, revealing itself to be a small wheel shaped blade about the size of a raptor's hand, but the object pierced the tree deeply, even with its small size. The three slowly turned back around toward where it had come from, watching, eyes widened, as a low hum echoed around them. "SCATTER!" Darkness snarled, throwing himself to the side as a bright flash of blue ripped through the air, slamming into a tree behind the black raptor, burning a massive chunk out of the tree, despite the mighty tree being almost 3 feet thick. Sandstorm bolted to one side, throwing himself into a few bushes, Fatalis launching himself at one of the other trees, latching onto the truck like a lizard before crawling his way above, another bolt ripping through the leaves around the raptor, sending burnt foliage and lumber clattering to the ground. Darkness, having landed hard against a large rock, rolled violently to the side to avoid another bolt, which sliced effortlessly through the rock, shooting off into the jungle. As the various raptors continued to move, trying to hide themselves from their unseen attacker, they stopped suddenly when a motorized grinding sounded from the direction of their attacker. Shimmering briefly, a large, 6 foot tall machine, looking like a squid in body, with octopus-like legs, which pounded the ground as it moved, effortlessly maneuvering its large head, emerged from the foliage, its long "head" swiveling around, scanning the area with a deep red eye positioned deep in a groove on the machine's head. "What the fu-" Sandstorm hissed from behind the bushes, suddenly cut off as the machine's head swerved around, an almost blinding bolt crackling to life, forcing Sandstorm to flatten himself against the ground, the bolt burning through the undergrowth, clearing a path well beyond where the raptor hid. Sandstorm, still tensed, forced himself to breath quietly, squirming further away from the tiny clearing the machine now stood in, knowing it would soon search his previous hiding spot. Darkness lifted his head, having shoved it into a bush at the appearance of another killer bolt, seeing the machine scuttling over toward the undergrowth that hid Sandstorm. Cursing slightly, but repeatedly, Darkness slowly got into a crouch, lifting a medium sized rock from the rubble of the larger one, hurling it with all his strength at the machine. Swerving around almost effortlessly, one of the machine's many tentacle snapping through the air like a whip, colliding with the rock and obliterating it, sending tiny pebbles soaring across the clearing. The machine made a rattling mechanical snarl, its red eye staring directly at where Darkness was hiding, as if debating on whether or not to change targets. To all fours' surprise, an explosion shook the air around them, even though it was in the distance, causing the machine to stare up into the sky, into the trees. Many tentacles launching it into the air, the machine took off in the direction of the explosion, its legs now flowing behind it, soon disappearing over the trees. "I-Is it gone?" Darkness growled from under his bush, refusing to come out of the undergrowth to check. Sandstorm peeked through a fern's leaves, seeing the machine's last signs of departure, breathing a prolonged sigh. "Yes...its gone...thank god." Sandstorm breathed, collapsing onto the fern, breathing heavily for a few moments. Darkness lifted his head, slowly at first, eventually rising to his full height. "Is everyone ok?" the black raptor asked, looking around the tiny clearing for any signs of Fatalis specifically. Dropping down from the trees, Fatalis landed with a thud next to Darkness, immediately tilting his head to lick the wound on his shoulder. "Just a flesh wound." Fatalis growled, his voice slurred, not stopping the licking despite attempting to talk. Sandstorm finally rose from the fern, walking grudgingly into the clearing, already knowing the rest of their journey would be hell. "I'm...I'm fine too. Lets get the hell out of here." the sandy raptor growled, the other two nodding immediately, hurriedly fleeing from the clearing, heading in the opposite direction the machine had gone, once again toward the coast.
Chapter 4: The Barrier
Shortly after their meeting with the strange machine, Sandstorm began his in depth theories about the machines and what was happening. Since then, he did not stop. "Seriously, we have one that can step on a Spino, and another who is partly invisible and can shoot LASERS?! Whats next, a frog-shaped machine that can shoot leaches out of its rectum?!" Sandstorm snarled, walking after Darkness and Fatalis, who both stifled a laugh, amazing themselves that they could find humor in their current situation what so ever. "This is like SHRPG on crack...there's no stopping these things!" Sandstorm continued, all three showing signs of exhaustion. "We might be in trouble, but who says the other RPGs are like that?" Fatalis growled, once again stopping Darkness and Sandstorm flat, first because he actually spoke, and second that he actually made sense. "...I guess...well, if anything, we are nearing the bridge..." Sandstorm said after a few moments of shock, speeding up his pace, as did the others. As if on some unseen que, once again their luck proving horrid, a large crunching sound echoed to their right, a massive tree groaning before falling over, collapsing toward the trio of raptors. Sandstorm dove out of the way, Fatalis and Darkness hoping to either side as the tree crashed against the ground, roots and all removed from the ground. All three raptors looked up at where the tree once was, two massive glowing spotlights staring directly at them, towering over the trees that surrounded them. Soon the gargantuan machine revealed itself, a massive three-pronged foot stepping onto the ground a few feet from them, the machine slowly shifting forward, now directly over the trio. Another foot was raised into the air, hanging threateningly over the group of raptors, ready to crush all three simultaneously, all frozen with fear. Just as the enourmous appendage came crashing down toward them, an equally large form slammed into the machine's other legs, the lack of traction caused it to stumble violently, the raised foot swinging past the trio of raptors before smashing against the ground, the machine attempting to keep itself on its feet. The group stared up fearfully, not really knowing what just happened, their rescuer momentarily stunned by the charge. As the group regained their senses, they saw in front of them...Crusher...but not exactly Crusher. It was smaller, still huge in size, but not quite as large as the Rex they knew. "Hunter..." Darkness growled blankly, the Rex saying nothing as he stood in between the group and the massive machine, which finally righted itself. The machine unleashed a booming wail, which caused the raptors to flinch, their ears ringing afterwards, one of the mechanical behemoth's feet slamming into the ground in front of Hunter. "GO! Get to the coast, the survivors are being herded into FRPG, we've managed to hold them at the bridge!" Hunter snarled finally, unleashing an equally loud roar of his own, charging forward, his massive skull striking the metallic leg of the machine, once again causing it to buckle slightly, but the machine was ready, quickly stopping its stumbling. The group, finally realizing what Hunter said, bolting into the undergrowth, leaving the Tyrannosaur to fight the machine alone, their final view that of the machine unleashing the torrent of tentacle like limbs from under its head, which snaked toward the fighting Rex...and then their view was engulfed by the undergrowth. "See?! All is not lost, the machines are being held just outside of FRPG!" Darkness growled, grinning as they ran. Sandstorm said nothing, as did Fatalis, both raptors equally concerned about the situation, despite the apparent resistance that was going on. After only a few minutes of running, the trio of raptors reached a fairly large clearing, stopping dead in their tracks soon after. Two smaller machines, standing at the edge of the clearing, their enourmous heads pointed toward the foliage beyond, not showing any sign of interest to the newcomers, the raptors assuming they had yet to be detected. Sandstorm motioned for the others to follow, the sandy raptor stepping carefully forward, quickly followed by the others, the trio of raptors slowly but surely heading toward the other side of the clearing. Just as Sandstorm's foot touched the ground, a snap echoed around them, a small twig snapped in half under the sandy raptor's clawed foot. Immediately, the two machines' heads spun around with amazing speed, their massive red eyes staring menacingly at the raptors. "Oh SH*T!" Sandstorm snarled, hurling himself through the air, hoping to avoid any incoming attack. Just as Sandstorm hit the ground, a loud crash was heard behind him, the sound of metal scrapping violently against the ground soon following. Sandstorm stood, looking toward Darkness and Fatalis, who were once again staring forward, their faces frozen, stunned, Sandstorm soon following their gaze. One of the machines was laying near the edge of the clearing, an enourmous dent in its head, crushing down the center of its head like a tin can, the horrid wound ending in jagged metal. Next to the wreckage, two figures battled, one being the remaining machine, which was latching onto the side of the second figure, a large multi-colored Giganotosaur, who's foot was badly bleeding. The Giganotosaurus roared angrily, slamming its side against a tree, the metal of the machine clanking hard against the tree, knocking the mighty plant over, a noticeably large dent appearing in the machine's enourmous head. The Giganotosaur jerked itself to one side, flinging the stunned metallic beast further into the clearing, the machine twisting itself so it landed on its many tentacle-like appendages. The machine hissed angrily at its organic opponent, a bright flash nearly blinding the raptors as a blue bolt zipped toward the Giganotosaur, who ducked down, causing the bolt to burn straight through yet another tree, causing it to tip forward, threatening to crush both combatants. The Giganotosaur side stepped the tree, the machine itself having yet to see the falling plant because of the Giganotosaur's girth, the extreme weight crushing its metallic body like nothing. Just as the Giganotosaur let out a long sigh, the first machine, with its crushed head, latched onto the dinosaur's side, wrapping its tentacles around the dinosaur's body, the Giga roaring angrily as the two stumbled off into the jungle beyond. "Lets go! This is getting too frequent; we must be near the coast!" Sandstorm growled, ignoring the sounds of battle in the distance, the three raptors bolting off into the jungle, the sounds of many battles soon meeting their ears...
Chapter 5: The Defense
The three raptors passed many ongoing battles, various residents of Sorna fighting for their home and their lives. The skirmishes dotted the landscape, but as they progressed nearer and nearer to the coast, the fights began to thin in number. Soon a tremendous amount of scents bombarded the three raptors, scents of hundreds of different creatures, some not even native to the island. "This must be where they are sending the survivors...we have to find out what they know." Sandstorm breathed, still exhausted from the constant running, along with the various attacks against them. In truth, none of the raptors knew exactly what was going on, and only just discovered the defense against the machines...there was a lot left unanswered. Fatalis in the lead, the raptors pushed through some relatively untouched foliage, finding themselves in a vast clearing, spanning as far as the eye could see to the left and right, marking the coast of the island itself. Although water soon met their gaze, the coast was devoid of sand and other qualities associated with such a region, instead looking like the island itself suddenly ended where it met the sea. The stood briefly in awe at the massive stretch of land, but eventually snapped out of their trances, heading toward the source of the vast amounts of scents. They were a few miles south of the bridge...no other lifeforms were around them, not even fish or other sea life in the shallow water beside them. The three raptors remained silent as they walked, disturbed by the current events...it was much more serious then the opening of the portals. Their brethren were dying helplessly within Sorna's depths...and only at one end of the island stood safety, and even then, the raptors didn't even know if the bridge itself was still under their allies' control. For all they knew, the machines could've slaughtered them all and taken the bridge, and that they were marching right into a death trap...but they had no other option.
After another unknown amount of time-which seemed like an eternity for Fatalis, Sandstorm, and Darkness-the group finally began to see the outskirts of where the bridge was located...and the massive encampment that surrounded it. Almost as far as they could see, a line of barricades stretched the length of the surrounding trees, a few scarce openings dotting the massive defense, to allow the arrival and departure of various creatures. The barricades themselves were torn, ravaged, and burnt, as if they had gone through hell and back, but stood like a massive stone wall keeping the forest itself at bay. Along the line stood an amazingly diverse amount of creatures, ranging from savage Allosaurs to normally peaceful Hadrosaurs, all of which were wearing thick armor, and some, those that had usable hands, carried weapons of various kinds. The armored beasts stood as still as stone, most of which had blood soaked armor, watching the barricade like eternal guardians. As the raptors neared, they could see a vast line of unarmored creatures being herded straight forward...into an even more heavily guarded path, the sky above crackling with unstable energy, marking the position of the dimensional bridge itself. The unarmed dinosaurs moving toward the bridge were wounded and bloodied themselves, tormented, like the raptors, by the journey to safety. As the raptors examined the base, a large shadow loomed over them suddenly, taking a few moments for the raptors to realize that something was standing over them. "Who the...wait...Sandstorm? Darkness? You guys made it?" rumbled a deep voice, the raptors almost jumping out of their skins at the sound, caught off guard. Looming beside them stood Redtooth, equally as armored as the defenders who lined the barricade, but wielded no visible weapon. Upon further inspection, the raptors could see massive steel extensions to the spinosaur's claws, giving them an every longer range and damaging ability. "Redtooth...its been a long time." Sandstorm growled, finally realizing it was the spinosaur who had lived with them for quite some time in the past. "Indeed it has. Where are the others? Steeltalon, Silver, Rawclaw..." the spinosaur listed, eyes showing genuine concern. "Silver and Rawclaw we haven't seen...Steeltalon..." Darkness hissed, unable to bring himself to continue the sentence, though Redtooth nodded in understanding. "Its good that you three made it. Its a hellhole out there...at least now we can push back." the Spinosaur said after a few tense moments, snapping the raptors out of their trances once more. "Yes...about that, how ARE you pushing back? From what we saw, the machines killed anything they saw, and the dinosaurs stood no chance." Sandstorm retorted, confused. "The dragonflights of FRPG sensed the disturbance before the attack on Sorna...by the time the first survivors reached the border, they had organized a defense of their own, and aided us in preparation." Redtooth explained, gesturing to his armored body with a quick nod. "The elves supplied us with forged armor and weapons, and now we stand to aid the survivors of the ordeal. Anyone who wishes to help, can. The bridge is well defended, and the machines aren't stupid...the closest enemy sighting is miles away from the barricade." he continued, glancing over at the barricade, the raptors doing the same. "Come, Crusher will be able to better explain the situation." Redtooth growled, turning his enourmous body around before lumbering further into the camp, the raptors following behind him silently...
The raptors followed behind the armored Spinosaur into the heart of the camp, which spanned for what seemed like miles in both directions. The defenders were holding firm, amazingly...FRPG had saved them once again. Only a few elven archers and cavalry dotted the defensive line, while most of the warriors were armored denizens willing to help save their home. Redtooth headed toward a massive makeshift building to the left of the dimensional bridge, which was in plain sight from their current distance, many sounds drifting out from the building, various voices seemingly arguing within. Redtooth gestured toward it before turning back around, saying a quick goodbye to the raptors before heading back to his post. Sandstorm stepped cautiously in first, followed by Darkness and Fatalis, all of which looked around the building in moderate awe. The building stood incredibly tall, and spanned quite a distance, enabling the massive creatures within to work somewhat comfortably. A small staircase led to the top of the building, the second floor acting as the ceiling, while the second floor itself was tiny in comparison. The staircase was being used by various smaller creatures, mainly compies and raptors, using the top of the headquarters as a lookout post. In the center of the room, a large, round table stood a good 10 feet in diameter, a tattered map spread across it, with smaller documents thrown around the table's surface. Around it stood four gargantuan creatures, arguing amongst themselves. Nearest to the raptors stood a familiar face: the multi-colored Giganotosaur who they had seen fighting the two smaller machines. Various fresh wounds dotted the Giganotosaur's body, its expression voicing its exhaustion, and the creature participated little in the conversation. Next to him stood the tallest of the bunch: A frighteningly large Saurophaganax, who's face showed its age, naturally tired, yet strong. A few feet away stood the third creature: a large spinosaurus with enourmous, yet natural claws, who seemed to be arguing the most out of the four. Finally, at the other end of the table stood the representation of Sorna itself: Crusher, who's faced voiced his annoyance of the conversation. "We can't push the blockade until reinforcements arrive and the survivors are out of the way! Who is.." the massive Rex boomed, staring toward the raptors, who felt dwarfed by the giants that stood around them. "Ah, Darkness! Fatalis and Sandstorm too! Its good to see you made it out alive!" Crusher growled with forced good nature, obviously tired and frustrated with the situation, but obviously wanted to show his concern for his guests. "And who are they to interrupt our conversation?" the Sauro grumbled somewhat angrily, looking at the three raptors as if they were leeches attached to his scales. "They are the ones who stopped the Writer, so show some damn respect!" Crusher snapped, the Sauro simply grunting in acknowledgment. "You have to excuse the others...these times are hard for all of us, as you can imagine." the Rex boomed, once again forcing a smile. "This loud-mouth is Nightmare, an old associate of mine...This, whom I've heard you already met, is Rainbowscale, our field commander. And finally, Screech, a brilliant tactician, if not a aggressive debater." Crusher introduced, gesturing to each creature in turn, earning a sarcastic smile from the Spinosaur.
"Its good to meet you all." Sandstorm growled, bowing his head. "Now...Crusher...if you could be so kind as to tell us what exactly is going on..." the sandy raptor continued, his voice showing no sign of aggitation, simply curious and concerned. "Where to start, I ask? The gateway is the cause of this all, as we feared...it spawned the mechanical menaces that slaughter our brethren by the minute, and not even the Gate Keepers stood against the initial assault!" Crusher explained, shaking his head. "You mean..." Fatalis began, Crusher nodding in response. "We have had no contact with SIRPG since the formation of the base. We can only assume that it is fully under the machines' control..." the Rex stated, his smile now fading completely. "And the other RPGs?" questioned Sandstorm, looking just as concerned as Crusher. "No word, besides the obvious. FRPG has once again offered us safety, giving us the means to defend ourselves. The mystics of their realm predicted the event when it struck SIRPG, and came to our aid to prevent us from suffering a similar fate. While we are here to see to the defense of the bridge, the minds behind FRPG are busy massing an army to strike back against the machines. From last I heard, the Industrialists have agreed to ally with the Flights and mortal races to fight a mutual foe. The demons of the land have disappeared almost completely..." Crusher growled, taking a deep breath, as if exhausted simply by speaking. "What about the other RPGs? Surely they see the danger in all of this!" Darkness growled, somewhat angry. "WRPG has sent their strongest warriors and sages to help defend the bridge, but other then that, we have received no other aid. SHRPG, although having much potential, is filled with arrogant fools who are too busy fighting themselves then to recognize the threat. SSRPG is wrapped in its own drama as well...it would be foolish to wait for their aid. With SIRPG gone and Sorna crippled, we have little access to the other RPGs. We are discussing that as well...sending messengers to the farther RPGs, to ask them for assistance." Crusher rumbled, staring expectantly down at the three raptors. "You mean us? Sure, why not. We had to deal with the other lands long before the rustbuckets popped into existence...we can do it again, if its needed." Sandstorm growled, smirking slightly. "Perfect. You must try to get aid from ARPG, ROTD, and POTC. The others will simply stand in your way, so don't bother. If you could get a progress report from FRPG while you pass through, it would be very useful as well." the Rex growled, turning to the others once more. "Screech, could you help them get ready for the journey, if you please?" Crusher boomed to the Spinosaur, everyone's attention now on it. "Of course, Crusher. Why waste my thoughts on tactics, when I can be dressing up your messengers?" Screech growled sarcastically, Crusher simply smiling in return, the Spinosaur heading out of the headquarters, followed by the three raptors...
Chapter 6: The Preparation
Screech pushed his way into another enourmous building, this one not quite as tall as the last, but several times wider. Inside, many different beings moved about, some armed to the teeth, while others tended to the wounded. A number of elves worked within the massive complex, standing out among their reptilian allies, some preparing armor, weapons, and other supplies, while others used their knowledge of magic to aid those who were injured. Screech walked past many of the busy creatures, heading toward the back of the complex, the trio of raptors speeding up to match the spinosaur's long strides, eventually coming to a makeshift armory, weapons and armor of various sizes scattered around the area, constantly being moved as they were given to those who had yet to be outfitted, while also being replaced by new items. "Ka'tos, these three need taken care of. They are Crusher's lackeys, so don't hold back." Screech hissed, one of the more elderly elves turning around to look at the mammoth creature, nodding. "Yes yes, I suppose they can take the reinforced armaments. Just be sure not to waste them." the elf grunted to the three raptors, eying them somewhat suspiciously, as if trying to determine if they were worthy for whatever Screech planned to give them. Screech said nothing, heading through a tattered tarp that separated a small room from the rest of the complex, the three raptors following, the elf known as Kat'tos already busy with more pressing matters. The room they came to was once again large by the raptors' standards, but was definitely small compared to the other makeshift buildings, including the headquarters. Screech's movements were now impaired, the gigantic creature trying its best to avoid smashing into walls, as well as stepping on the raptors that tailed him. "Here. Crusher set aside a few pieces of equipment, in case a few select creatures turned up. Such a waste...but then again, that's why he is our leader, and I am not." Screech hissed somewhat scornfully, gesturing with a massive claw to a few pieces of armor, which were noticeably smaller then a few of their nearby counterparts. Labels were now noticed above each set, listing a variety of names, those who apparently Crusher trusted. Darkness stepped forward, eying his armor set, as did his companions with their own, when suddenly Screech cleared his throat loudly, drawing back their attention.
"First, we have this set, for Darkness." Screech growled, gesturing to a set of armor that was as black as the raptor it was made for. "Not only will its enchantment help keep you hidden in the shadows, it is also light weight, giving protection against a variety of weapons without weighing you down. It also lacks a few pieces of armor, to allow for more maneuverability." Screech explained, gesturing to a few parts of the armor, which lacked some pieces of the leg region, which would, as the spinosaur said, make it much more flexible. "As for your weapon, you get these." the spinosaur continued, tapping a claw off a set of metallic claws, which were longer then any natural weapon. "With your...unique...fighting style, having a large and bothersome weapon would be an unnecessary annoyance." Screech hissed, turning to the second set of armor. "As for Sandstorm, your armor is very similar to Darkness', in that it is flexible, light weight, and strong. The leg guards are a special design created by the elves...it should increase leg muscle strength, allowing for stronger kicks and faster running." Screech hissed, glancing from the sandy raptor to the desert-camouflaged armor. "As for your weapon, you will get these claw extensions, to further increase the lethality of your leg strikes." the spinosaur explained, once again tapping his claw against a set of raptor-shaped boots, which had an enormous killer claw extension. "And finally, Fatalis. Your armor offers the most protection, while not as light weight as the others, but makes up for it in density. The armor itself will increase muscle function in most limbs, while not as powerful in the legs as Sandstorm, it drastically increases overall strength throughout the body, even internal systems such as the heart, which will allow you to survive normally lethal injuries." Screech hissed, pointing somewhat half-heartily at the third set of armor, which was a combination of red and gray. "Your weapon will be this claymore, a runeblade of somewhat unknown origin by the elves who found it, which, of course, started many rumors fabricated by eccentric gossipers." Screech hissed, pointing toward the nearby runeblade, which was jagged in design, a skull of unknown type at the hilt of the blade, the runeblade itself being a combination of silver and blue. As the raptors inspected the armor, Screech tossed aside a piece of paper in his clawed hand, which, when read by Sandstorm, contained everything the Spinosaur had just said, said spinosaur already out of the room by the time the raptors looked up. "He really needs to get that stick out of his *ss..." Sandstorm hissed under his breath before turning back to the armor, inspecting his own set closely. Darkness glanced to the armor beside Fatalis', eyes widening at the name labeled above it. Steeltalon...just the name alone depressed the black raptor...
As the three suited up for their journey, Fatalis was busy staring at the runeblade he was given, which was leaning against the nearby bench. The raptor couldn't help but wonder about the origins of the blade...but then again, it was exactly as Screech had said. Unknown object calls for ridiculous folklore...it was a very well known fact. Ignoring the weapon for now, Fatalis got ready along with his companions, heading out of the armory and toward the dimensional bridge into FRPG. Crusher was outside waiting, smiling tiredly at the trio as they approached, while refugees were still being herded across the bridge. "Ah yes, the armor I set aside for each of you, I knew it would be worthwhile!" the gargantuan Rex boomed, chuckling, once again the gesture seemingly forced. "Remember, try to get a progress report back to us before you head out of FRPG. The machines haven't made it as far back as the border, but we can't expect this to last forever." Crusher growled, suddenly very serious. The trio of raptors nodded, saying their goodbyes to Crusher before heading across the bridge, constantly avoiding death at the feet of panicked dinosaurs, eventually disappearing into the the Fantasy RPG...
Chapter 7: The Beginning
Coming through to the other side, the trio looked out into the vast land of FRPG...much of the grassland surrounding the bridge was trampled and crushed by the refugee dinosaurs, but was otherwise untouched. The machines hadn't broken through, that much was sure...but the denizens of the realm were unsure what was coming in the opposite direction, in the direction of WRPG. It was up to the small band of raptors to make sure nothing was going on from that direction, as well as get whatever aid they could dig up for the battered defenders back on Sorna...if they could get back in time, at least. Putting the disheartening thoughts behind them, with Sandstorm in the lead, the raptors took off across the grassland in a fast trot, the long, fine grass waving gently in the breeze as they moved, hardly effected by their passing, which was in the opposite direction of the refugees. So peaceful...it was deceptive, Sandstorm knew. It was hard for the raptor to continue on, rather then simply lay in the grass and enjoy the peaceful silence while it still lasted...but they had a job to do. Memories of their trek some time ago came flooding back to the sandy raptor, but he quickly ignored them.
Soon the grassland changed into snow covered forests, which, strangely, had no effect on the reptilian-like dinosaurs, as it had when they arrived in the land so long ago. However, the strange lack of effect did not apply to their movement, which was greatly hampered by the snow that seemed to stretch on forever, the trees around them devoid of leaves, and only a few scarce rabbits showed that the land was not completely empty of all life. It was like a frozen duplicate of their own home...but soon the forest itself began to thin. They were approaching another field, that much was clear, but this was covered in snow as well, and the weather seemed to change from a slow snowfall to a roaring blizzard as they moved out of the trees completely. A towering shape remained in the distance as they pushed on, snow covering their armor in parts, approaching the ominous shadow of the spire, which seemed to stay at a distance no matter how long they walked. Fighting the blizzard took their full attention...but something else was amiss.
He shook his head. The bad weather must've really got to him...the desolate landscape was giving rise to disturbing thoughts. He tried to ignore them, but they continued to press relentlessly. Could he really be contemplating such a thing? It disgusted him to think such a thing was possible. Focusing on the walk ahead, he tried to keep his mind clear. You know what they did...you know they will do it again...to you. He paused. He was right...they had just abandoned her without even so much of a thought. They should've gone back...should've stopped her from leaving. Now she was gone...and they would do the same to him if he fell behind. Or to each other, if they did so either...he couldn't trust them, not in such a dangerous situation. He shook his head again...what was he thinking? He assumed such a dire situation could do that to the strongest individual's mind...but accusing his friends of abandoning him? After all they had been through? He needed to keep his mind occupied...he needed to keep these thoughts in check. It would all be better...once they reached the spire.
He sighed. The damn thing was still on the horizon. They had been walking for what seemed like hours through a blizzard, and it seemed to mock them, moving away before they could get close. It infuriated him to no end. They had an important job...the fate of their home, and possibly the lives of the defenders as well as the refugees rested on their shoulders. And they were given nothing to aid their journey, to get there faster. This damn place was filled with magic! Elves! Dragons! And they had to travel through a frozen wasteland on foot! His footfalls became more violent, taking his anger out on the snow beneath his clawed feet, mashing the cold substance underfoot, until he stumbled forward slightly after misplacing a foot. They would be there soon...they had to be. They-no, he, couldn't take any more of this.
The snow was definitely bothersome...it made their journey a lot more difficult then it needed to be. Such was luck, he guessed. It didn't really effect him; although there was no snow on Sorna, he was used to dealing with difficult situations, even ones he had never encountered before. It had been the case thousands of times in the past...why was this any different? Movement caught his eye...very slow movement of a small figure through the snow, which seemed to come into view only to disappear a moment later. Another rabbit. Poor b*stards hardly seemed adapted to live in such a thick snow-covered environment...yet here they were. Interesting how life worked that way. He wondered what had become of his allies...many were left unaccounted for, when they reached the refuge. They didn't have the time to check...he had so many encounters over the years, and yet all that could be erased just like that. An unfortunate outcome, if true...
As the spire neared, the blizzard raged harder...soon they would be at its base...
Chapter 8: The Scavenger
The climb was almost as excruciating as the journey. The trio of raptors moved up the spire at a painfully slow pace, the blizzard not lessening as they climbed higher and higher, battering the raptors relentlessly. By the time the top of the spire was reached, the trio of raptors were covered in snow which seemed to cling to their very being, the armor protecting as best it could under such extreme conditions. Looking into the mouth of the cave that took up most of the spire's head, the raptors could see a light radiating from within. Upon entering the cave itself, they found that the cold of the outside weather seemed to disappear completely, replaced by a comfortable warmth. The cave, unlike their last visit, seemed to stretch out into a path that led into the spire itself, gargantuan hallways spiraling back down the spire, into the very core of the structure, the temperature staying unnaturally warm as they descended. Soon the light grew stronger and stronger before the darkness of the cave was completely lifted, illuminating a large circular room, which they suspected rested at the heart of the spire, near its base. The light seemed to come from this room, though it lacked any obvious torch or light of any kind. As the raptors looked around, they saw nothing but an empty cave, carved delicately to make it almost royal in appearance. "These three again...should the veil be lifted?" a voice echoed in the cave, easily identifiable as female. "Yes...they are the ones who cast back the Writer. Their involvement in this disaster is no surprise." another voice responded, male. Suddenly the cave itself seemed to shift, as if what they saw was just a mask made of fog, various gargantuan figures now towering over them, surrounding the trio in a circle that matched the cave's own shape. The scalely creatures watched them with mixed expressions, though the most startling was the purple-shaded creature, whose eyes were glowing a deeper purple for a few seconds, before dissipating.
"We meet again, adventurers. So...convenient that you come to our doorstep yet again in a time of need." the male voice rumbled kind-heartily, the raptors immediately looking at the large, proud-looking red dragon in front of them. "Inferno...what are you doing here?" Sandstorm questioned after a very painful looking gulp, still uneasy around the large creatures. "We decided to hold our meeting here, instead of the usual places...with such enemies lurking about, we couldn't be too careful." Inferno responded with a nod of greeting, his face very serious. "These are the other flight leaders...I'm sure you met some of them on your journeys." the red Emperor continued, gesturing with a clawed hand at the surrounding behemoths, ranging from blue to silver. Stimeak, the hybrid, was among them, as was the strange black dragon that accompanied him, Neltharion. "Why are you all here? Is this about the attack?" Sandstorm questioned, stuffing down his fear of the reptilian creatures. Inferno nodded in response. "We are well aware of the situation currently taking place within your home...but it is not the only one." the red dragon explained grimly. "Reports came in from our neighbor, WRPG...a number of survivors that fled the land in search of safety. This is far greater then anything we could've imagined." Inferno continued. "How? They are coming from both sides...seems completely obvious." Darkness growled, confused. "Once we knew of the attack on Sorna, we sent scouts to investigate WRPG and possibly the lands beyond it. They were untouched...as they remain to this moment. The forces we set up inside ARPG were met to meet the enemy before they got so close to our own land. Now we are getting reports of WRPG attacks..." Inferno growled, face growing even more grim. "You mean..." Sandstorm began, Inferno nodding. "They have a way into our lands beyond our understand. We have no idea what sort of technology allows this to happen, but they are using it to eliminate key threats to their goal. A special force is now assaulting WRPG...highly trained and highly dangerous." Inferno rumbled, watching as the raptors showed their confusion. "What makes them so special?" Darkness questioned. "Reports from the survivors indicate the leader of the attacks...is our own Noble Warrior."
The cats ran for their very lives. Mothers, their children, and various elders bolted through the forest toward the bridge that led to FRPG, while their stronger brethren attempted to give them a chance to escape. Bipedal machines, reminiscent of the humans they had hated in the past, marched through the forests, setting them ablaze with weapons that were integrated with their very bodies, slaughtering any living creature they came across, whether it be warrior or infant. Many of the shamanistic cats of WRPG, which was now a wide-spread practice in the cats' societies, stood against the machines, manipulating the elements to hurl at their enemies. The machines' thick armor and bulky forms stood fast against them...they had no choice but to give the weak a chance to flee. Among the machines, two shapes darted in and out through the foliage, moving faster then their mechanical allies, chasing down fleeing cats with sharp blades, showing no mercy. The lead figure stopped, a look of pure insanity on his face as he grinned at the fleeing felines, bodies littering the burning forest around him, which slowly spread after the fleeing animals. Beside him was a saurian figure, who turned to face the first figure, revealing a purely-mechanical half of its face. "They will not last long...your superiority knows no bounds." the raptor growled, its voice scratchy and painful-sounding, its organic eye showing some a plea for praise. "You are making your worthless waste actually useful..If I wasn't disgusted by your face I'd..pet you...ew..." the first figure responded, shuddering, the usually golden armor turned blood red gleaming in the blazing inferno, while he looked at the raptor with a look of suppressed disgust. Looking away, the raptor reached a clawed hand to the icy-cold metal half of its face, ashamed, but quickly looked back at the fleeing cats. Darting off into the forest, the raptor chased down their enemies with unwavering ferocity, determined to prove its worth to its master...
The Multi-Universe Written Fiction of Supreme Epic
Prologue: Aftermath
Something brewed in the cursed land beyond Skull Island...the RPG's past condemning it to house this gateway for the rest of eternity. The residents of the RPG universe had been living in peace ever since the Writer was destroyed, but all could feel the calm before the storm. The beings that emerged from the gateway had pure intentions, unlike the Writer, and some had become allies with the residents, the few that actually showed themselves in the realm. All were powerful, everyone knew that fact, but they had no desire to harm the residents. Now, the gateway pulsated, creating an unnatural storm, which stretched from the gateway itself, across the barren plains in front of it, and was slowly seeping into Skull Island. The red lightening caused by the hellish storm made it impossible for any of the Gate Keepers, those who were tasked to watch the gateway, to prevent another like the Writer from causing havoc once more, to stay near the site itself. Word began spreading like wildfire throughout the realm about the storm, FRPG and SHRPG on high alert, being the most powerful forces the realms had to offer. Soon the calm would end, and bring forth another threat, greater then even the Writer...
Chapter 1: The Calm
Sandstorm yawned lazily, resting soundly on a large boulder. Beside him, body parts rained down, the screeching and laughing of Steeltalon and Darkness echoing through the area, which had no effect on him what so ever. Reaching out a clawed hand, the sandy raptor managed to snag a head as it was hurled through the air, digging into the meat lazily, eyes still half shut. After a few minutes, the Ninja Raptor Squad lay in pieces scattered across the island, Darkness and Steeltalon trotting happily over to Sandstorm, covered from head to toe in blood, none of which was their own. "Any meat left?" Sandstorm growled, now on his back. "I think a leg came past here. The rest is a bit too small to eat..." Steeltalon growled, scratching her head nervously. Darkness had layed down on top of the cliff, his eyes only visible to the others below, which were shifting from one side to the other, watching the forest around them. "Any word from Rawclaw and Silver?" Sandstorm growled, opening an eye to look at Steeltalon. "Ya, they have a kid now. Peddle or something, I really didn't pay attention..." Steeltalon growled as if it was common knowledge. In the background, Darkness had rolled off of the cliff, bounding toward the forest behind them as they spoke. "That's nice...And Fatalis?" Sandstorm growled as a compy sailed overhead, followed by Darkness. "No clue. Last time I heard from him, he was visiting Crusher." Steeltalon growled, Darkness throwing a punch at the compy behind the talking raptors, which caught his fist and slapped him across the face, causing him to fall into a bush, the compy jumping in after him. Sandstorm looked to the left of Steeltalon, nearly falling off of the rock as Fatalis stood next to him, only able to catch a glimpse of a swirling blue and black portal closing behind the raptor. "How the...?" Sandstorm began, Fatalis shrugging as if it was nothing. Steeltalon shook her head, Darkness and the compy now fencing in the background, wielding long, thin swords, both evenly matched. "So how've you been Fatalis?" Sandstorm growled, sitting up finally. "Good I guess. You?" Fatalis growled, the two both shaking their heads, still not used to the fact that Fatalis had a voice. "Great actually, nice and pe-" Sandstorm began, only to be interrupted by Fatalis. "Well I've been amazing." the raptor growled, grinning. Sandstorm rolled his eyes, resisting the urge to chuck the rock next to the one he was sitting on at Fatalis's head for obvious reasons. Darkness finally swiped the sword out of the compy's hands, a triumphant "AH HA!" echoing around the area as he stepped on the compy. Backflipping onto the cliff once more, the compy carcass was immediately covered by bird sh*t, which fell from the trees above in great amounts. The three raptors' heads turned as an explosion sounded from the edge of the island, the color fading from each of them, their expressions showing their concern. Standing, the group of raptors trotted into the jungle, the explosion sounding near where Silver and Rawclaw had settled, the group fearing the worst for those who they considered family...
Chapter 2: The Storm
As the group headed toward the eastern edge of the island, a variety of creatures crossed their path, all being natural residents of the island, but were moving away from the source of the commotion, looks of fear on their faces. Even massive creatures such as Tyrannosaurs and Giganotosaurs turned tail and fled, and soon they saw the reason why. Scorched trees greeted them as they neared the edge, screeches of pain and fear coupled with explosions sounding in the distance forcing them to a halt. They had arrived at the nest to find it abandoned, the trees that used to surround it now burnt or fallen...and there was no sign of Rawclaw or Silver. "What the hell is going on here?!" Steeltalon snarled in frustration, everyone in the group, even Fatalis, unaware at what was happening around them. As if on some unseen que, a burnt tree was suddenly crushed, causing the raptors to spin around to face the sound. Where the tree had once been, now stood a massive three-pronged foot, made of metal, not flesh, a massive curved leg arching up into the sky, connecting to a single massive structure. Two other legs stomped into view, the group now able to see the full behemoth before them, watching as its three legs crushed ash and burnt wood underfoot. The structure, what seemed to be the metallic horror's head, had two large glowing eyes, which seemed to be more like spotlights then eyes. As its shining eyes rested on the group, the machine unleashed a moaning wail, which caused all of the raptor to flinch from the volume of the sound. The machine stomped toward them, the bottom of its "head" suddenly covered in snaking tentacles, which snapped the air in front of the machine eagerly. "MOVE!" snarled Sandstorm, shoving Darkness toward the opposite end of the area, away from the machine, trying to get the group moving. Snapping out of their stunned state, the others bolted away, speed fueled by fear as they neared the seemingly untouched part of the jungle. The machine thundered behind them, the group able to hear its massive footfalls behind them, wailing as it walked. Suddenly, in front of the group, another wail shook the air, followed by the appearance of yet another tripod behemoth looking over the trees, shining eyes staring directly at the raptors. "What do we do now?!" Steeltalon growled frantically, trying to keep both machines in sight, which were slowly nearing the group. "Go left! Head into the dense trees!" snarled Fatalis, the others taking no time to wonder how he became so useful to their survival, bolting off toward where Fatalis had mentioned. The machines stomped after them, wailing in unison as they did, watching as the raptors disappeared into the thick foliage ahead. As they had hoped, the machines' pace now slowed dramatically, unable to keep the chase going with the massive trees standing in their way. This, however, did not slow the raptors' pace, the group bolting off toward the other end of the island, praying that it was not under siege by the same terrible machines. After another twenty minutes of running, the lead raptors, Steeltalon and Fatalis, began panting heavily, Sandstorm and Darkness following soon after, unable to continue at such a rapid pace. "Lets...lets just take a minute...to catch our breath..." panted Sandstorm, flopping against a tree without giving the others time to answer, though they soon joined him. "What...what was that?! I've seen...human monsters before...but nothing like that!" snarled Steeltalon, gasping for breath between each word. "I don't know...this doesn't seem like the humans' doing...They were coming from the east, near the Super Hero RPG, right?" Sandstorm growled, shaking his head. "Ya...that's only a few miles from Skull Island...do you think the defenses have failed?" Darkness panted, referring to the Gate Keepers and Skull Island as a whole. "They must have...Sorna is in the middle of the chain, its impossible for them to simply show up here!" Steeltalon answered, standing up shakily. "I'm going to look around...If I don't return in twenty minutes, get to FRPG without me." the female raptor growled, nodding to each of her comrades before trotting off into the foliage around them. FRPG was their goal now...if anything stood a chance, it was Inferno and the rest of FRPG. How fast the machines consumed the island, however, was another issue at hand...while they rested, the machines could be right behind them, preventing them from getting to safety. For now, however, the raptors rested, hoping that Steeltalon would return, and with good news...
Chapter 3: The Damage
The group, now one member short, waited...and waited...and waited some more. Steeltalon was no where in sight, and the sound of horrified screeches, pained roars, and other sounds were keeping the group on edge, convincing them that the area was no longer safe, if it could be considered that in the first place. "...We have to get moving..." Sandstorm growled finally, Fatalis and Darkness looking up at him. "No, I won't le-" Darkness began, suddenly becoming very serious, Sandstorm cutting him off swiftly. "You heard what she said! She knew what was at risk, and she went anyway. This is a sign, a sign that the coast is not clear, and we might not be able to get to FRPG if we wait any longer!" Sandstorm snarled, causing Darkness to stare off into the jungle where Steeltalon had disappeared, nodding blankly after a few silent moments. "Alright then...lets get moving. If you hear anything, say so. We can't take any chances." Sandstorm growled, finally standing, Fatalis and Darkness doing the same, the trio of raptors heading solemnly off into the jungle beyond. The same horrific sounds followed them their entire journey, yet they saw few of anything, natural residents or invaders. The trio avoided the burnt destroyed jungle, for obvious reasons, following the surviving jungle toward the coast. Not even bodies were in sight...it sent chills through all of them, even Fatalis. The trees themselves were devoid of life, whether it be monkeys, birds, or even bugs, all were gone...whether they had fled or were simply dead, the group did not know. Sandstorm at the head, the trio of raptors walked silently for what seemed like years, the tension in the air almost sickening. Suddenly, Sandstorm stopped dead in his tracks, causing Fatalis to bump into him, Darkness doing the same to Fatalis, only to have Fatalis shove him back several feet. "Quiet!" Sandstorm snapped, preventing Darkness from picking up the branch he was looking at, the three raptors not moving a muscle, simply listening to the jungle around them. Nothing but the distant horrors...then a snap. "Somethings here...it isn't friendly, we haven't encountered a single soul for hours. Get ready to run like hell..." Sandstorm hissed quietly, all three staring in the direction of the noise. Suddenly, an object whizzed through the air, grazing Fatalis's shoulder, causing the raptor to grunt in pain at the suddenly attack. The projectile stopped behind them, embedded into a tree, revealing itself to be a small wheel shaped blade about the size of a raptor's hand, but the object pierced the tree deeply, even with its small size. The three slowly turned back around toward where it had come from, watching, eyes widened, as a low hum echoed around them. "SCATTER!" Darkness snarled, throwing himself to the side as a bright flash of blue ripped through the air, slamming into a tree behind the black raptor, burning a massive chunk out of the tree, despite the mighty tree being almost 3 feet thick. Sandstorm bolted to one side, throwing himself into a few bushes, Fatalis launching himself at one of the other trees, latching onto the truck like a lizard before crawling his way above, another bolt ripping through the leaves around the raptor, sending burnt foliage and lumber clattering to the ground. Darkness, having landed hard against a large rock, rolled violently to the side to avoid another bolt, which sliced effortlessly through the rock, shooting off into the jungle. As the various raptors continued to move, trying to hide themselves from their unseen attacker, they stopped suddenly when a motorized grinding sounded from the direction of their attacker. Shimmering briefly, a large, 6 foot tall machine, looking like a squid in body, with octopus-like legs, which pounded the ground as it moved, effortlessly maneuvering its large head, emerged from the foliage, its long "head" swiveling around, scanning the area with a deep red eye positioned deep in a groove on the machine's head. "What the fu-" Sandstorm hissed from behind the bushes, suddenly cut off as the machine's head swerved around, an almost blinding bolt crackling to life, forcing Sandstorm to flatten himself against the ground, the bolt burning through the undergrowth, clearing a path well beyond where the raptor hid. Sandstorm, still tensed, forced himself to breath quietly, squirming further away from the tiny clearing the machine now stood in, knowing it would soon search his previous hiding spot. Darkness lifted his head, having shoved it into a bush at the appearance of another killer bolt, seeing the machine scuttling over toward the undergrowth that hid Sandstorm. Cursing slightly, but repeatedly, Darkness slowly got into a crouch, lifting a medium sized rock from the rubble of the larger one, hurling it with all his strength at the machine. Swerving around almost effortlessly, one of the machine's many tentacle snapping through the air like a whip, colliding with the rock and obliterating it, sending tiny pebbles soaring across the clearing. The machine made a rattling mechanical snarl, its red eye staring directly at where Darkness was hiding, as if debating on whether or not to change targets. To all fours' surprise, an explosion shook the air around them, even though it was in the distance, causing the machine to stare up into the sky, into the trees. Many tentacles launching it into the air, the machine took off in the direction of the explosion, its legs now flowing behind it, soon disappearing over the trees. "I-Is it gone?" Darkness growled from under his bush, refusing to come out of the undergrowth to check. Sandstorm peeked through a fern's leaves, seeing the machine's last signs of departure, breathing a prolonged sigh. "Yes...its gone...thank god." Sandstorm breathed, collapsing onto the fern, breathing heavily for a few moments. Darkness lifted his head, slowly at first, eventually rising to his full height. "Is everyone ok?" the black raptor asked, looking around the tiny clearing for any signs of Fatalis specifically. Dropping down from the trees, Fatalis landed with a thud next to Darkness, immediately tilting his head to lick the wound on his shoulder. "Just a flesh wound." Fatalis growled, his voice slurred, not stopping the licking despite attempting to talk. Sandstorm finally rose from the fern, walking grudgingly into the clearing, already knowing the rest of their journey would be hell. "I'm...I'm fine too. Lets get the hell out of here." the sandy raptor growled, the other two nodding immediately, hurriedly fleeing from the clearing, heading in the opposite direction the machine had gone, once again toward the coast.
Chapter 4: The Barrier
Shortly after their meeting with the strange machine, Sandstorm began his in depth theories about the machines and what was happening. Since then, he did not stop. "Seriously, we have one that can step on a Spino, and another who is partly invisible and can shoot LASERS?! Whats next, a frog-shaped machine that can shoot leaches out of its rectum?!" Sandstorm snarled, walking after Darkness and Fatalis, who both stifled a laugh, amazing themselves that they could find humor in their current situation what so ever. "This is like SHRPG on crack...there's no stopping these things!" Sandstorm continued, all three showing signs of exhaustion. "We might be in trouble, but who says the other RPGs are like that?" Fatalis growled, once again stopping Darkness and Sandstorm flat, first because he actually spoke, and second that he actually made sense. "...I guess...well, if anything, we are nearing the bridge..." Sandstorm said after a few moments of shock, speeding up his pace, as did the others. As if on some unseen que, once again their luck proving horrid, a large crunching sound echoed to their right, a massive tree groaning before falling over, collapsing toward the trio of raptors. Sandstorm dove out of the way, Fatalis and Darkness hoping to either side as the tree crashed against the ground, roots and all removed from the ground. All three raptors looked up at where the tree once was, two massive glowing spotlights staring directly at them, towering over the trees that surrounded them. Soon the gargantuan machine revealed itself, a massive three-pronged foot stepping onto the ground a few feet from them, the machine slowly shifting forward, now directly over the trio. Another foot was raised into the air, hanging threateningly over the group of raptors, ready to crush all three simultaneously, all frozen with fear. Just as the enourmous appendage came crashing down toward them, an equally large form slammed into the machine's other legs, the lack of traction caused it to stumble violently, the raised foot swinging past the trio of raptors before smashing against the ground, the machine attempting to keep itself on its feet. The group stared up fearfully, not really knowing what just happened, their rescuer momentarily stunned by the charge. As the group regained their senses, they saw in front of them...Crusher...but not exactly Crusher. It was smaller, still huge in size, but not quite as large as the Rex they knew. "Hunter..." Darkness growled blankly, the Rex saying nothing as he stood in between the group and the massive machine, which finally righted itself. The machine unleashed a booming wail, which caused the raptors to flinch, their ears ringing afterwards, one of the mechanical behemoth's feet slamming into the ground in front of Hunter. "GO! Get to the coast, the survivors are being herded into FRPG, we've managed to hold them at the bridge!" Hunter snarled finally, unleashing an equally loud roar of his own, charging forward, his massive skull striking the metallic leg of the machine, once again causing it to buckle slightly, but the machine was ready, quickly stopping its stumbling. The group, finally realizing what Hunter said, bolting into the undergrowth, leaving the Tyrannosaur to fight the machine alone, their final view that of the machine unleashing the torrent of tentacle like limbs from under its head, which snaked toward the fighting Rex...and then their view was engulfed by the undergrowth. "See?! All is not lost, the machines are being held just outside of FRPG!" Darkness growled, grinning as they ran. Sandstorm said nothing, as did Fatalis, both raptors equally concerned about the situation, despite the apparent resistance that was going on. After only a few minutes of running, the trio of raptors reached a fairly large clearing, stopping dead in their tracks soon after. Two smaller machines, standing at the edge of the clearing, their enourmous heads pointed toward the foliage beyond, not showing any sign of interest to the newcomers, the raptors assuming they had yet to be detected. Sandstorm motioned for the others to follow, the sandy raptor stepping carefully forward, quickly followed by the others, the trio of raptors slowly but surely heading toward the other side of the clearing. Just as Sandstorm's foot touched the ground, a snap echoed around them, a small twig snapped in half under the sandy raptor's clawed foot. Immediately, the two machines' heads spun around with amazing speed, their massive red eyes staring menacingly at the raptors. "Oh SH*T!" Sandstorm snarled, hurling himself through the air, hoping to avoid any incoming attack. Just as Sandstorm hit the ground, a loud crash was heard behind him, the sound of metal scrapping violently against the ground soon following. Sandstorm stood, looking toward Darkness and Fatalis, who were once again staring forward, their faces frozen, stunned, Sandstorm soon following their gaze. One of the machines was laying near the edge of the clearing, an enourmous dent in its head, crushing down the center of its head like a tin can, the horrid wound ending in jagged metal. Next to the wreckage, two figures battled, one being the remaining machine, which was latching onto the side of the second figure, a large multi-colored Giganotosaur, who's foot was badly bleeding. The Giganotosaurus roared angrily, slamming its side against a tree, the metal of the machine clanking hard against the tree, knocking the mighty plant over, a noticeably large dent appearing in the machine's enourmous head. The Giganotosaur jerked itself to one side, flinging the stunned metallic beast further into the clearing, the machine twisting itself so it landed on its many tentacle-like appendages. The machine hissed angrily at its organic opponent, a bright flash nearly blinding the raptors as a blue bolt zipped toward the Giganotosaur, who ducked down, causing the bolt to burn straight through yet another tree, causing it to tip forward, threatening to crush both combatants. The Giganotosaur side stepped the tree, the machine itself having yet to see the falling plant because of the Giganotosaur's girth, the extreme weight crushing its metallic body like nothing. Just as the Giganotosaur let out a long sigh, the first machine, with its crushed head, latched onto the dinosaur's side, wrapping its tentacles around the dinosaur's body, the Giga roaring angrily as the two stumbled off into the jungle beyond. "Lets go! This is getting too frequent; we must be near the coast!" Sandstorm growled, ignoring the sounds of battle in the distance, the three raptors bolting off into the jungle, the sounds of many battles soon meeting their ears...
Chapter 5: The Defense
The three raptors passed many ongoing battles, various residents of Sorna fighting for their home and their lives. The skirmishes dotted the landscape, but as they progressed nearer and nearer to the coast, the fights began to thin in number. Soon a tremendous amount of scents bombarded the three raptors, scents of hundreds of different creatures, some not even native to the island. "This must be where they are sending the survivors...we have to find out what they know." Sandstorm breathed, still exhausted from the constant running, along with the various attacks against them. In truth, none of the raptors knew exactly what was going on, and only just discovered the defense against the machines...there was a lot left unanswered. Fatalis in the lead, the raptors pushed through some relatively untouched foliage, finding themselves in a vast clearing, spanning as far as the eye could see to the left and right, marking the coast of the island itself. Although water soon met their gaze, the coast was devoid of sand and other qualities associated with such a region, instead looking like the island itself suddenly ended where it met the sea. The stood briefly in awe at the massive stretch of land, but eventually snapped out of their trances, heading toward the source of the vast amounts of scents. They were a few miles south of the bridge...no other lifeforms were around them, not even fish or other sea life in the shallow water beside them. The three raptors remained silent as they walked, disturbed by the current events...it was much more serious then the opening of the portals. Their brethren were dying helplessly within Sorna's depths...and only at one end of the island stood safety, and even then, the raptors didn't even know if the bridge itself was still under their allies' control. For all they knew, the machines could've slaughtered them all and taken the bridge, and that they were marching right into a death trap...but they had no other option.
After another unknown amount of time-which seemed like an eternity for Fatalis, Sandstorm, and Darkness-the group finally began to see the outskirts of where the bridge was located...and the massive encampment that surrounded it. Almost as far as they could see, a line of barricades stretched the length of the surrounding trees, a few scarce openings dotting the massive defense, to allow the arrival and departure of various creatures. The barricades themselves were torn, ravaged, and burnt, as if they had gone through hell and back, but stood like a massive stone wall keeping the forest itself at bay. Along the line stood an amazingly diverse amount of creatures, ranging from savage Allosaurs to normally peaceful Hadrosaurs, all of which were wearing thick armor, and some, those that had usable hands, carried weapons of various kinds. The armored beasts stood as still as stone, most of which had blood soaked armor, watching the barricade like eternal guardians. As the raptors neared, they could see a vast line of unarmored creatures being herded straight forward...into an even more heavily guarded path, the sky above crackling with unstable energy, marking the position of the dimensional bridge itself. The unarmed dinosaurs moving toward the bridge were wounded and bloodied themselves, tormented, like the raptors, by the journey to safety. As the raptors examined the base, a large shadow loomed over them suddenly, taking a few moments for the raptors to realize that something was standing over them. "Who the...wait...Sandstorm? Darkness? You guys made it?" rumbled a deep voice, the raptors almost jumping out of their skins at the sound, caught off guard. Looming beside them stood Redtooth, equally as armored as the defenders who lined the barricade, but wielded no visible weapon. Upon further inspection, the raptors could see massive steel extensions to the spinosaur's claws, giving them an every longer range and damaging ability. "Redtooth...its been a long time." Sandstorm growled, finally realizing it was the spinosaur who had lived with them for quite some time in the past. "Indeed it has. Where are the others? Steeltalon, Silver, Rawclaw..." the spinosaur listed, eyes showing genuine concern. "Silver and Rawclaw we haven't seen...Steeltalon..." Darkness hissed, unable to bring himself to continue the sentence, though Redtooth nodded in understanding. "Its good that you three made it. Its a hellhole out there...at least now we can push back." the Spinosaur said after a few tense moments, snapping the raptors out of their trances once more. "Yes...about that, how ARE you pushing back? From what we saw, the machines killed anything they saw, and the dinosaurs stood no chance." Sandstorm retorted, confused. "The dragonflights of FRPG sensed the disturbance before the attack on Sorna...by the time the first survivors reached the border, they had organized a defense of their own, and aided us in preparation." Redtooth explained, gesturing to his armored body with a quick nod. "The elves supplied us with forged armor and weapons, and now we stand to aid the survivors of the ordeal. Anyone who wishes to help, can. The bridge is well defended, and the machines aren't stupid...the closest enemy sighting is miles away from the barricade." he continued, glancing over at the barricade, the raptors doing the same. "Come, Crusher will be able to better explain the situation." Redtooth growled, turning his enourmous body around before lumbering further into the camp, the raptors following behind him silently...
The raptors followed behind the armored Spinosaur into the heart of the camp, which spanned for what seemed like miles in both directions. The defenders were holding firm, amazingly...FRPG had saved them once again. Only a few elven archers and cavalry dotted the defensive line, while most of the warriors were armored denizens willing to help save their home. Redtooth headed toward a massive makeshift building to the left of the dimensional bridge, which was in plain sight from their current distance, many sounds drifting out from the building, various voices seemingly arguing within. Redtooth gestured toward it before turning back around, saying a quick goodbye to the raptors before heading back to his post. Sandstorm stepped cautiously in first, followed by Darkness and Fatalis, all of which looked around the building in moderate awe. The building stood incredibly tall, and spanned quite a distance, enabling the massive creatures within to work somewhat comfortably. A small staircase led to the top of the building, the second floor acting as the ceiling, while the second floor itself was tiny in comparison. The staircase was being used by various smaller creatures, mainly compies and raptors, using the top of the headquarters as a lookout post. In the center of the room, a large, round table stood a good 10 feet in diameter, a tattered map spread across it, with smaller documents thrown around the table's surface. Around it stood four gargantuan creatures, arguing amongst themselves. Nearest to the raptors stood a familiar face: the multi-colored Giganotosaur who they had seen fighting the two smaller machines. Various fresh wounds dotted the Giganotosaur's body, its expression voicing its exhaustion, and the creature participated little in the conversation. Next to him stood the tallest of the bunch: A frighteningly large Saurophaganax, who's face showed its age, naturally tired, yet strong. A few feet away stood the third creature: a large spinosaurus with enourmous, yet natural claws, who seemed to be arguing the most out of the four. Finally, at the other end of the table stood the representation of Sorna itself: Crusher, who's faced voiced his annoyance of the conversation. "We can't push the blockade until reinforcements arrive and the survivors are out of the way! Who is.." the massive Rex boomed, staring toward the raptors, who felt dwarfed by the giants that stood around them. "Ah, Darkness! Fatalis and Sandstorm too! Its good to see you made it out alive!" Crusher growled with forced good nature, obviously tired and frustrated with the situation, but obviously wanted to show his concern for his guests. "And who are they to interrupt our conversation?" the Sauro grumbled somewhat angrily, looking at the three raptors as if they were leeches attached to his scales. "They are the ones who stopped the Writer, so show some damn respect!" Crusher snapped, the Sauro simply grunting in acknowledgment. "You have to excuse the others...these times are hard for all of us, as you can imagine." the Rex boomed, once again forcing a smile. "This loud-mouth is Nightmare, an old associate of mine...This, whom I've heard you already met, is Rainbowscale, our field commander. And finally, Screech, a brilliant tactician, if not a aggressive debater." Crusher introduced, gesturing to each creature in turn, earning a sarcastic smile from the Spinosaur.
"Its good to meet you all." Sandstorm growled, bowing his head. "Now...Crusher...if you could be so kind as to tell us what exactly is going on..." the sandy raptor continued, his voice showing no sign of aggitation, simply curious and concerned. "Where to start, I ask? The gateway is the cause of this all, as we feared...it spawned the mechanical menaces that slaughter our brethren by the minute, and not even the Gate Keepers stood against the initial assault!" Crusher explained, shaking his head. "You mean..." Fatalis began, Crusher nodding in response. "We have had no contact with SIRPG since the formation of the base. We can only assume that it is fully under the machines' control..." the Rex stated, his smile now fading completely. "And the other RPGs?" questioned Sandstorm, looking just as concerned as Crusher. "No word, besides the obvious. FRPG has once again offered us safety, giving us the means to defend ourselves. The mystics of their realm predicted the event when it struck SIRPG, and came to our aid to prevent us from suffering a similar fate. While we are here to see to the defense of the bridge, the minds behind FRPG are busy massing an army to strike back against the machines. From last I heard, the Industrialists have agreed to ally with the Flights and mortal races to fight a mutual foe. The demons of the land have disappeared almost completely..." Crusher growled, taking a deep breath, as if exhausted simply by speaking. "What about the other RPGs? Surely they see the danger in all of this!" Darkness growled, somewhat angry. "WRPG has sent their strongest warriors and sages to help defend the bridge, but other then that, we have received no other aid. SHRPG, although having much potential, is filled with arrogant fools who are too busy fighting themselves then to recognize the threat. SSRPG is wrapped in its own drama as well...it would be foolish to wait for their aid. With SIRPG gone and Sorna crippled, we have little access to the other RPGs. We are discussing that as well...sending messengers to the farther RPGs, to ask them for assistance." Crusher rumbled, staring expectantly down at the three raptors. "You mean us? Sure, why not. We had to deal with the other lands long before the rustbuckets popped into existence...we can do it again, if its needed." Sandstorm growled, smirking slightly. "Perfect. You must try to get aid from ARPG, ROTD, and POTC. The others will simply stand in your way, so don't bother. If you could get a progress report from FRPG while you pass through, it would be very useful as well." the Rex growled, turning to the others once more. "Screech, could you help them get ready for the journey, if you please?" Crusher boomed to the Spinosaur, everyone's attention now on it. "Of course, Crusher. Why waste my thoughts on tactics, when I can be dressing up your messengers?" Screech growled sarcastically, Crusher simply smiling in return, the Spinosaur heading out of the headquarters, followed by the three raptors...
Chapter 6: The Preparation
Screech pushed his way into another enourmous building, this one not quite as tall as the last, but several times wider. Inside, many different beings moved about, some armed to the teeth, while others tended to the wounded. A number of elves worked within the massive complex, standing out among their reptilian allies, some preparing armor, weapons, and other supplies, while others used their knowledge of magic to aid those who were injured. Screech walked past many of the busy creatures, heading toward the back of the complex, the trio of raptors speeding up to match the spinosaur's long strides, eventually coming to a makeshift armory, weapons and armor of various sizes scattered around the area, constantly being moved as they were given to those who had yet to be outfitted, while also being replaced by new items. "Ka'tos, these three need taken care of. They are Crusher's lackeys, so don't hold back." Screech hissed, one of the more elderly elves turning around to look at the mammoth creature, nodding. "Yes yes, I suppose they can take the reinforced armaments. Just be sure not to waste them." the elf grunted to the three raptors, eying them somewhat suspiciously, as if trying to determine if they were worthy for whatever Screech planned to give them. Screech said nothing, heading through a tattered tarp that separated a small room from the rest of the complex, the three raptors following, the elf known as Kat'tos already busy with more pressing matters. The room they came to was once again large by the raptors' standards, but was definitely small compared to the other makeshift buildings, including the headquarters. Screech's movements were now impaired, the gigantic creature trying its best to avoid smashing into walls, as well as stepping on the raptors that tailed him. "Here. Crusher set aside a few pieces of equipment, in case a few select creatures turned up. Such a waste...but then again, that's why he is our leader, and I am not." Screech hissed somewhat scornfully, gesturing with a massive claw to a few pieces of armor, which were noticeably smaller then a few of their nearby counterparts. Labels were now noticed above each set, listing a variety of names, those who apparently Crusher trusted. Darkness stepped forward, eying his armor set, as did his companions with their own, when suddenly Screech cleared his throat loudly, drawing back their attention.
"First, we have this set, for Darkness." Screech growled, gesturing to a set of armor that was as black as the raptor it was made for. "Not only will its enchantment help keep you hidden in the shadows, it is also light weight, giving protection against a variety of weapons without weighing you down. It also lacks a few pieces of armor, to allow for more maneuverability." Screech explained, gesturing to a few parts of the armor, which lacked some pieces of the leg region, which would, as the spinosaur said, make it much more flexible. "As for your weapon, you get these." the spinosaur continued, tapping a claw off a set of metallic claws, which were longer then any natural weapon. "With your...unique...fighting style, having a large and bothersome weapon would be an unnecessary annoyance." Screech hissed, turning to the second set of armor. "As for Sandstorm, your armor is very similar to Darkness', in that it is flexible, light weight, and strong. The leg guards are a special design created by the elves...it should increase leg muscle strength, allowing for stronger kicks and faster running." Screech hissed, glancing from the sandy raptor to the desert-camouflaged armor. "As for your weapon, you will get these claw extensions, to further increase the lethality of your leg strikes." the spinosaur explained, once again tapping his claw against a set of raptor-shaped boots, which had an enormous killer claw extension. "And finally, Fatalis. Your armor offers the most protection, while not as light weight as the others, but makes up for it in density. The armor itself will increase muscle function in most limbs, while not as powerful in the legs as Sandstorm, it drastically increases overall strength throughout the body, even internal systems such as the heart, which will allow you to survive normally lethal injuries." Screech hissed, pointing somewhat half-heartily at the third set of armor, which was a combination of red and gray. "Your weapon will be this claymore, a runeblade of somewhat unknown origin by the elves who found it, which, of course, started many rumors fabricated by eccentric gossipers." Screech hissed, pointing toward the nearby runeblade, which was jagged in design, a skull of unknown type at the hilt of the blade, the runeblade itself being a combination of silver and blue. As the raptors inspected the armor, Screech tossed aside a piece of paper in his clawed hand, which, when read by Sandstorm, contained everything the Spinosaur had just said, said spinosaur already out of the room by the time the raptors looked up. "He really needs to get that stick out of his *ss..." Sandstorm hissed under his breath before turning back to the armor, inspecting his own set closely. Darkness glanced to the armor beside Fatalis', eyes widening at the name labeled above it. Steeltalon...just the name alone depressed the black raptor...
As the three suited up for their journey, Fatalis was busy staring at the runeblade he was given, which was leaning against the nearby bench. The raptor couldn't help but wonder about the origins of the blade...but then again, it was exactly as Screech had said. Unknown object calls for ridiculous folklore...it was a very well known fact. Ignoring the weapon for now, Fatalis got ready along with his companions, heading out of the armory and toward the dimensional bridge into FRPG. Crusher was outside waiting, smiling tiredly at the trio as they approached, while refugees were still being herded across the bridge. "Ah yes, the armor I set aside for each of you, I knew it would be worthwhile!" the gargantuan Rex boomed, chuckling, once again the gesture seemingly forced. "Remember, try to get a progress report back to us before you head out of FRPG. The machines haven't made it as far back as the border, but we can't expect this to last forever." Crusher growled, suddenly very serious. The trio of raptors nodded, saying their goodbyes to Crusher before heading across the bridge, constantly avoiding death at the feet of panicked dinosaurs, eventually disappearing into the the Fantasy RPG...
Chapter 7: The Beginning
Coming through to the other side, the trio looked out into the vast land of FRPG...much of the grassland surrounding the bridge was trampled and crushed by the refugee dinosaurs, but was otherwise untouched. The machines hadn't broken through, that much was sure...but the denizens of the realm were unsure what was coming in the opposite direction, in the direction of WRPG. It was up to the small band of raptors to make sure nothing was going on from that direction, as well as get whatever aid they could dig up for the battered defenders back on Sorna...if they could get back in time, at least. Putting the disheartening thoughts behind them, with Sandstorm in the lead, the raptors took off across the grassland in a fast trot, the long, fine grass waving gently in the breeze as they moved, hardly effected by their passing, which was in the opposite direction of the refugees. So peaceful...it was deceptive, Sandstorm knew. It was hard for the raptor to continue on, rather then simply lay in the grass and enjoy the peaceful silence while it still lasted...but they had a job to do. Memories of their trek some time ago came flooding back to the sandy raptor, but he quickly ignored them.
Soon the grassland changed into snow covered forests, which, strangely, had no effect on the reptilian-like dinosaurs, as it had when they arrived in the land so long ago. However, the strange lack of effect did not apply to their movement, which was greatly hampered by the snow that seemed to stretch on forever, the trees around them devoid of leaves, and only a few scarce rabbits showed that the land was not completely empty of all life. It was like a frozen duplicate of their own home...but soon the forest itself began to thin. They were approaching another field, that much was clear, but this was covered in snow as well, and the weather seemed to change from a slow snowfall to a roaring blizzard as they moved out of the trees completely. A towering shape remained in the distance as they pushed on, snow covering their armor in parts, approaching the ominous shadow of the spire, which seemed to stay at a distance no matter how long they walked. Fighting the blizzard took their full attention...but something else was amiss.
He shook his head. The bad weather must've really got to him...the desolate landscape was giving rise to disturbing thoughts. He tried to ignore them, but they continued to press relentlessly. Could he really be contemplating such a thing? It disgusted him to think such a thing was possible. Focusing on the walk ahead, he tried to keep his mind clear. You know what they did...you know they will do it again...to you. He paused. He was right...they had just abandoned her without even so much of a thought. They should've gone back...should've stopped her from leaving. Now she was gone...and they would do the same to him if he fell behind. Or to each other, if they did so either...he couldn't trust them, not in such a dangerous situation. He shook his head again...what was he thinking? He assumed such a dire situation could do that to the strongest individual's mind...but accusing his friends of abandoning him? After all they had been through? He needed to keep his mind occupied...he needed to keep these thoughts in check. It would all be better...once they reached the spire.
He sighed. The damn thing was still on the horizon. They had been walking for what seemed like hours through a blizzard, and it seemed to mock them, moving away before they could get close. It infuriated him to no end. They had an important job...the fate of their home, and possibly the lives of the defenders as well as the refugees rested on their shoulders. And they were given nothing to aid their journey, to get there faster. This damn place was filled with magic! Elves! Dragons! And they had to travel through a frozen wasteland on foot! His footfalls became more violent, taking his anger out on the snow beneath his clawed feet, mashing the cold substance underfoot, until he stumbled forward slightly after misplacing a foot. They would be there soon...they had to be. They-no, he, couldn't take any more of this.
The snow was definitely bothersome...it made their journey a lot more difficult then it needed to be. Such was luck, he guessed. It didn't really effect him; although there was no snow on Sorna, he was used to dealing with difficult situations, even ones he had never encountered before. It had been the case thousands of times in the past...why was this any different? Movement caught his eye...very slow movement of a small figure through the snow, which seemed to come into view only to disappear a moment later. Another rabbit. Poor b*stards hardly seemed adapted to live in such a thick snow-covered environment...yet here they were. Interesting how life worked that way. He wondered what had become of his allies...many were left unaccounted for, when they reached the refuge. They didn't have the time to check...he had so many encounters over the years, and yet all that could be erased just like that. An unfortunate outcome, if true...
As the spire neared, the blizzard raged harder...soon they would be at its base...
Chapter 8: The Scavenger
The climb was almost as excruciating as the journey. The trio of raptors moved up the spire at a painfully slow pace, the blizzard not lessening as they climbed higher and higher, battering the raptors relentlessly. By the time the top of the spire was reached, the trio of raptors were covered in snow which seemed to cling to their very being, the armor protecting as best it could under such extreme conditions. Looking into the mouth of the cave that took up most of the spire's head, the raptors could see a light radiating from within. Upon entering the cave itself, they found that the cold of the outside weather seemed to disappear completely, replaced by a comfortable warmth. The cave, unlike their last visit, seemed to stretch out into a path that led into the spire itself, gargantuan hallways spiraling back down the spire, into the very core of the structure, the temperature staying unnaturally warm as they descended. Soon the light grew stronger and stronger before the darkness of the cave was completely lifted, illuminating a large circular room, which they suspected rested at the heart of the spire, near its base. The light seemed to come from this room, though it lacked any obvious torch or light of any kind. As the raptors looked around, they saw nothing but an empty cave, carved delicately to make it almost royal in appearance. "These three again...should the veil be lifted?" a voice echoed in the cave, easily identifiable as female. "Yes...they are the ones who cast back the Writer. Their involvement in this disaster is no surprise." another voice responded, male. Suddenly the cave itself seemed to shift, as if what they saw was just a mask made of fog, various gargantuan figures now towering over them, surrounding the trio in a circle that matched the cave's own shape. The scalely creatures watched them with mixed expressions, though the most startling was the purple-shaded creature, whose eyes were glowing a deeper purple for a few seconds, before dissipating.
"We meet again, adventurers. So...convenient that you come to our doorstep yet again in a time of need." the male voice rumbled kind-heartily, the raptors immediately looking at the large, proud-looking red dragon in front of them. "Inferno...what are you doing here?" Sandstorm questioned after a very painful looking gulp, still uneasy around the large creatures. "We decided to hold our meeting here, instead of the usual places...with such enemies lurking about, we couldn't be too careful." Inferno responded with a nod of greeting, his face very serious. "These are the other flight leaders...I'm sure you met some of them on your journeys." the red Emperor continued, gesturing with a clawed hand at the surrounding behemoths, ranging from blue to silver. Stimeak, the hybrid, was among them, as was the strange black dragon that accompanied him, Neltharion. "Why are you all here? Is this about the attack?" Sandstorm questioned, stuffing down his fear of the reptilian creatures. Inferno nodded in response. "We are well aware of the situation currently taking place within your home...but it is not the only one." the red dragon explained grimly. "Reports came in from our neighbor, WRPG...a number of survivors that fled the land in search of safety. This is far greater then anything we could've imagined." Inferno continued. "How? They are coming from both sides...seems completely obvious." Darkness growled, confused. "Once we knew of the attack on Sorna, we sent scouts to investigate WRPG and possibly the lands beyond it. They were untouched...as they remain to this moment. The forces we set up inside ARPG were met to meet the enemy before they got so close to our own land. Now we are getting reports of WRPG attacks..." Inferno growled, face growing even more grim. "You mean..." Sandstorm began, Inferno nodding. "They have a way into our lands beyond our understand. We have no idea what sort of technology allows this to happen, but they are using it to eliminate key threats to their goal. A special force is now assaulting WRPG...highly trained and highly dangerous." Inferno rumbled, watching as the raptors showed their confusion. "What makes them so special?" Darkness questioned. "Reports from the survivors indicate the leader of the attacks...is our own Noble Warrior."
The cats ran for their very lives. Mothers, their children, and various elders bolted through the forest toward the bridge that led to FRPG, while their stronger brethren attempted to give them a chance to escape. Bipedal machines, reminiscent of the humans they had hated in the past, marched through the forests, setting them ablaze with weapons that were integrated with their very bodies, slaughtering any living creature they came across, whether it be warrior or infant. Many of the shamanistic cats of WRPG, which was now a wide-spread practice in the cats' societies, stood against the machines, manipulating the elements to hurl at their enemies. The machines' thick armor and bulky forms stood fast against them...they had no choice but to give the weak a chance to flee. Among the machines, two shapes darted in and out through the foliage, moving faster then their mechanical allies, chasing down fleeing cats with sharp blades, showing no mercy. The lead figure stopped, a look of pure insanity on his face as he grinned at the fleeing felines, bodies littering the burning forest around him, which slowly spread after the fleeing animals. Beside him was a saurian figure, who turned to face the first figure, revealing a purely-mechanical half of its face. "They will not last long...your superiority knows no bounds." the raptor growled, its voice scratchy and painful-sounding, its organic eye showing some a plea for praise. "You are making your worthless waste actually useful..If I wasn't disgusted by your face I'd..pet you...ew..." the first figure responded, shuddering, the usually golden armor turned blood red gleaming in the blazing inferno, while he looked at the raptor with a look of suppressed disgust. Looking away, the raptor reached a clawed hand to the icy-cold metal half of its face, ashamed, but quickly looked back at the fleeing cats. Darting off into the forest, the raptor chased down their enemies with unwavering ferocity, determined to prove its worth to its master...
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