Threads Of Destiny: Clash Of The Tribes Book Two-The Umber Veil Introduction-The End

CHARACTERS

COBRA TRIBE

LEADER: Snake-Eighteen-year-old boy with blond hair and green eyes

ASSASSIN: Dallas-Sixteen-year old boy with brown hair and warm amber eyes

GUARDS:Steven-Man with brown hair and a beard with green eyes

Lyla-Young woman with blond hair and blue eyes

SOLDIERS:Gideon-Man with dark brown hair and brown eyes

Victor-Man with icy gray eyes and scars on his face

Saraphine-Woman with brown eyes, pale skin, and red lips

Ignatius-Man with gray eyes and pale skin

Alaric-Woman with ice-blue eyes and brown hair

Isolde-Woman with beige hair and brown eyes

Ace-Man with black hair and black eyes

Maiba-Newly-trained teenage girl with brown hair and black eyes

*THERE ARE TWENTY PEOPLE IN THE TRIBE OF COBRA, NOT INCLUDING GUARDS, SOLDIERS, LEADER, AND ASSASSIN.

ECLIPSE TRIBE

LEADER: Saber-Seventeen-year-old boy with brown hair and brown eyes

ASSASSIN: Dylan-Fifteen-year-old boy with jet black hair and unusual dark blue eyes

GUARDS:Raven-Fifteen-year-old girl with shiny black hair and black eyes

Lance-Man with black hair and brown eyes

SOLDIERS:Griffin-Woman with blond-white hair and green eyes

Miles-Young adult with scarlet hair and brown eyes

Dawn-Girl with brown hair and blue eyes

Conner-Boy with beige hair and brown eyes

Silas-Newly-trained teenage boy with brown hair and brown eyes

Draven-Teenage boy with black hair and green eyes

Asher-Teenage girl with gray eyes and blond hair

Soren-Woman with beige hair and amber eyes

*THERE ARE TWENTY FIVE PEOPLE IN THE TRIBE OF ECLIPSE, NOT INCLUDING GUARDS, SOLDIERS, ASSASSIN, OR LEADER

GLACIER TRIBE

LEADER: Frost-Woman with blue eyes and blond hair

ASSASSIN: Storm-Seventeen-year-old boy with ice-blond hair and gray eyes

GUARDS: Aidan-Sixteen-year-old boy with light brown hair and brown eyes

Ryder-Young man with dark brown hair and blue eyes

SOLDIERS: Ava-Young woman with curly black hair and green eyes

Liam-Seventeen-year-old boy with blond hair and hazel eyes

Maya-Young woman with black hair and brown eyes

Willow-Teenage girl with red hair and green eyes

Aspen-Teenage boy with brown hair and black eyes

Rowan-Nineteen-year-old boy with dark brown hair and hazel eyes

River-Eighteen-year-old girl with light blond hair and blue eyes

Cormac-Man with gray eyes and white hair

*THERE ARE TWENTY-THREE PEOPLE IN THE TRIBE OF GLACIER, NOT INCLUDING LEADER, ASSASSIN, GUARDS, OR SOLDIERS

PHOENIX TRIBE

LEADER: Riven-Nineteen-year-old boy with platinum hair and blue eyes

ASSASSIN:Strike-Man with blond hair and blue eyes

GUARDS: Viper-Young man with green eyes and brown hair

Flame-Eighteen-year-old boy with bright blond hair and gray eyes

SOLDIERS: Melody-Young woman with blue eyes and golden hair

Hope-Young woman with brown hair and brown eyes

Fawn-Nineteen-year-old girl with brown hair and hazel eyes

Aria-Sixteen-year-old girl with gold eyes and black hair

Meadow-Eighteen-year-old girl with red hair and green eyes

Cactus-Young man with hazel eyes and auburn hair

Lily-Young woman with gray eyes and dyed pink hair

Thordis-Man with amber eyes and red hair

Gutren-Man with copper eyes and dark brown hair

Gracie-Seventeen-year-old girl with blond hair and hazel eyes

*THERE ARE TWENTY ONE PEOPLE IN THE TRIBE OF PHOENIX, NOT INCLUDING GUARDS, LEADERS, SOLDIERS, OR ASSASSIN

PROLOGUE

“Scorch?” A teenage boy with bright blue, glowing hair asked weakly. “Yes, Whirlpool?” Another boy hurried over to his side. “Water power is too rare, too precious. I’ve decided to make a pendant of some sort, maybe four, each containing my elements,” Whirlpool rasped out hoarsely. “Four protectors. Give the other three to Spark, Ember, and Blaze. We don’t know when there is going to be another elemental. We need to keep them safe.” Scorch nodded slightly. “You’ll be remembered through history.”

As he watched in awe, Whirlpool made motions with his hands. A light in the shape of a droplet was formed, a pendant glowing dimly afterwards. He formed another one, and also created two bracelets, using the same method. “Keep them safe, Scorch. You are the one I can trust.” Whirlpool handed the three pieces of jewelry to Scorch gently. He felt the cold, smooth stone of the magic that held the water element. “Keep all of the others safe. I know the Eclipse Tribe will thrive under your leadership.”

Little did they know, everything was going to go wrong. Whirlpool, erased entirely from anyone’s mind.

CHAPTER ONE

Saber was getting tired of staying in the forest. He had the heavy duty of leading Eclipse. He wanted to explore more of the world, beyond the Glacier Tribe, beyond the meadow.

Saber glanced over at Dylan and Raven. Raven was pressing close to Dylan, in quiet conversation. Even though Saber apologized to Dylan for his behaviour due to his jealousy, he couldn’t help but feel a hint of irritation at the sight. He turned his back to them.

“Saber? Join us!” He suddenly felt himself being tugged. He turned to see Raven, trying to push him onto their bed. He felt a spark of happiness. Even if Dylan deserved Raven, he was happy to still have her as a friend. “Okay…” he muttered, and climbed onto the bed. Dylan gave a slight smile to Saber. They had patched things up, and reached an uneasy friendship based on respect. Once they all got into a comfortable position, Saber spoke up. “I want to explore city life,” he admitted. “I want to know what’s out there…”

“City life is hard and complicated,” Dylan protested. Saber knew he had gone there before. “They have money, which is used to pay for stuff, like hotels. It seems like a waste of time.”

“I think it’s a good idea.” Dylan shot Raven a glance. “We can live for a few days there, then come back here,” she continued. “Then who’s going to lead Eclipse while you’re gone?” Dylan pointed out. “Umm…” Saber stammered. He hadn’t thought of that part yet. “I’ll find someone. Maybe Draven or Soren.”

“I’m coming!” Raven piped up eagerly. “I’m going,” Saber insisted. They both looked at Dylan. Dylan sighed. Saber knew he had given in. “Fine, I’ll come. But just to make sure you both are safe. I don’t want to be stuck here while you two are doing who knows what in the city.” Saber nodded. “Sounds good. We’re leaving tomorrow.”

The next thing he knew, sunlight was streaming through the glass windows, lighting up the room with a warm, earthy glow. Saber rubbed his eyes. He had fallen asleep sprawled across the mattress. Raven was in the middle, and Dylan was half off the bed. Saber shuffled off the bed and got dressed. “Saber?” Dylan asked drowsily. Saber turned to see Dylan climbing out of bed. “Remember what we said yesterday?” Dylan nodded tartly. “Yes,” he muttered. “I still think it’s a dangerous idea.” Saber ignored him. “Wake up Raven. We’re leaving soon.”

“Okay.” Saber left Dylan and Raven alone in the bedroom as he went to inform the Tribe. “People of Eclipse, to me!” The people started gathering around him. “I have decided that it’s time for me to take a break from leadership. I want to go to the city for a few days.” Murmurs of protest went through the crowd. “You can’t just leave us without a leader!” A voice erupted above all the others. “I’ll put someone else in charge.” Saber looked around. His gaze landed on Draven. “Draven, you’re in charge. I trust you to keep Eclipse safe.” Draven’s eyes lit up with shock and joy. “I-I’ll be honored,” he stammered. “Good. I’m going with Dylan and Raven. We’ll be back soon, I promise.”

CHAPTER TWO

Saber sighed. It took lots of time to convince the crowd to support his idea. It was noon by now, the sun high up in the sky. Dylan, Raven, and Saber had started for the city beyond the meadow.

“We’re almost there,” Saber encouraged enthusiastically. The sun was beating down on them and they were tired. Soon enough, they reached the city. “Let’s explore!” Raven said excitedly, immediately running off. “Wait!” Dylan called after her. She halted to a stop. “We need to stick together.” Raven walked back slowly. “Okay,” she agreed reluctantly. Dylan turned to Saber. “Where are we going to live for the next few days? Hotels need money!” Saber was unsure. “Maybe we can sell something,” he muttered. “Like what?”

“Thanks! Have a great day!” Saber had decided to sell the accessories that they were wearing, like necklaces, bracelets, and the earrings Raven was wearing. They had made a pretty good amount of money. “This should be enough to rent out a room.” Saber stashed it in his pocket. They asked for the directions for the nearest hotel, and managed to rent out a hotel room for a week.

“Do you want to go explore now?” Raven asked impatiently. Saber nodded, and the three of them walked to a street bustling with cars and people. “Look!” Saber looked up to see a building. It was called Belle’s Jewelry. “Want to go check it out?” Raven asked. Then, before either Dylan or Saber could disagree, she rushed into the store. Saber dashed in after her, and Dylan followed slowly behind. “What’s wrong?” Saber murmured to him. “It’s…” Dylan trailed off and shook his head, like he was clearing his mind. “Nothing,” he mumbled. Raven gazed around in awe at all the piercings, earrings, necklaces, and bracelets displayed all over the store. “Too bad we don’t have enough to purchase any,” Raven whispered. “Let’s go,” Saber said, heading for the door.

Raven followed. Saber turned to see Dylan, staring at a display. His eyes were glowing electric blue, and more than usual. “Dylan…” Raven walked over to him. “What is it?” Saber asked, also running over. Dylan was staring at three blue pieces of jewelry. “It’s power…I can sense it,” he whispered, mesmerized. “Strong. Everlasting power.” Saber looked closely. It was a pendant and two bracelets. The pendant looked shockingly similar to the one broken by Storm.

“Can it be?” Dylan whispered hoarsely. “The power…it’s contained in these too!” Dylan gazed into Raven’s eyes. “This can change everything. It might even stop the battle that is about to come.” Saber knew he was talking about Storm’s dreams. “But…we don’t have enough money,” Raven murmured quietly.

Dylan glanced at Saber, ambition sparkling in his blue eyes. “We’ll get it. The question is when.”

CHAPTER THREE

Dylan, Saber, and Raven returned to the hotel for the night. They fell asleep, exhausted from the day’s adventures.

“Saber! Saber! Wake up!” Saber woke up with a jolt. Orange flames were lapping at the bed, threatening to swallow it whole. “It’s caught fire!” Dylan hissed. “Run!” Saber ran down the steps and tried to barge open the stuck door. He grunted with effort. Dylan was breathing heavily, and blasted the fire back, but it just kept coming. “Come on!” He urged Raven and Saber. He sent a powerful wave, and kept it going, forcing the flames back. Together, Raven and Saber managed to break the door down and ran out of the hotel. Firemen were outside, trying to extinguish the flames with hoses.

“Dylan!” Raven screamed. Saber turned around to see the door had caught fire, trapping Dylan inside of the slowly burning building. Dylan looked at Raven with determination.

“Harper!” A woman beside her shouted. “She’s still in there!” Dylan looked back at the smoke-filled room. He dashed back. “No!” Saber yelled. The whole front of the building fell with a crash, sending sparks into the air. He could see Dylan, desperately trying to get into the room. He kicked it again and again, until it burst open. He disappeared inside. Suddenly, the room burst into flames, swallowing it whole. “DYLAN!” Raven screeched. She tried running back, but one of the firemen held her so she couldn’t dash back in.

Saber saw water blast back the flames, but they kept coming back, even stronger than before. The whole building was collapsing. The windows were broken, and the ground was shaken. Suddenly, a girl ran out of the building. “Harper!” The woman yelled with relief and hugged her. “What about Dylan?” Saber whispered. “I’m going in!” Raven jerked her arms away from the fireman and ran before he could react, back into the burning building. Saber followed her. “Dylan?” It was hard to see with all the smoke. His eyes were burning and his lungs were painfully gasping for air. He spotted a body, lying inside the room. “Here!” He shouted to Raven. They went in. Dylan was sprawled on the floor, barely breathing. Together, Saber and Raven dragged him out of the burning building, right before the entire thing collapsed in a cloud of dust.

The woman from before was staring at Dylan. Raven began to do CPR on his chest, firmly, over and over again. She did mouth to mouth respiration too, trying desperately to help him breathe.

Raven continued the steady beats on his chest. “It’s not working!” She breathed. The woman from before held a phone to her ear. “Yes, come right away.” Saber had no idea what she was talking about. He just hoped Dylan would survive.

CHAPTER FOUR

Turns out, the woman had called the ambulance and they had driven Dylan away for medical care. Saber and Raven weren’t allowed to come. The woman approached them warily. “You aren’t from around here, are you?” She asked suspiciously. “No…” Saber muttered. “We’re from the forest beyond the meadow.”

“Hmm…interesting. Never heard of anyone from the forest.” Suddenly, Raven whipped around. “Don’t you care that our friend sacrificed himself to save YOUR kid!??” Her eyes were filled with tears. The woman looked surprised. “I-” She looked down guiltily. “I’m sorry…”

“It’s not your fault,” Saber said quietly. “It was his choice.” Raven started to cry. Saber gently put one arm around her, wondering if she would get mad at him too. She just sat there, watching the first hints of daylight appear. The woman had left by the time they got up. Saber was stiff, and he stretched his arms over his head. “I wonder if they would let us visit him,” he said. Raven suddenly perked up. “Good idea.” She walked over to an elderly woman. “Excuse me, do you know the way to the hospital?” She asked. The elderly woman jumped. “ExCUSE me, do you know your MANNERS? Of course I know the way to the hospital. It is down the street, two right, one left!” Raven recoiled. “Oh, sorry. Thanks…” she mumbled. “That’s better!” The woman snapped.

“Oof…rough start,” Saber said. They walked all the way to the hospital. “We’re here to see Dylan,” Raven murmured to the lady at the front desk. “Ah, his friends I see. Follow me.” The lady led them down a light hallway, with blue walls and a white-tile flooring. They reached a blue door. The number was five, seven, five. The moment Saber saw the condition of Dylan, he tried not to gasp, horrified. Raven’s eyes were lit with horror. The nurse had a grim expression on her face. “He’ll heal…” she said, but Saber could tell she wasn’t sure. Dylan was lying on the white bed, a mask helping him breathe. There was a machine measuring his heartbeat, which was slow and uneven. His eyes were closed, and there were burns on his arms, neck, and everywhere else Saber could see. “Dylan…” Raven knelt down beside him. He slowly opened his eyes, full of love, shimmering deep like starlight. She hugged him. Saber stood, trying to catch Dylan’s eye. He turned to him, and Saber thought he could catch a smile. Dylan closed his eyes.

Then, he knew. He knew. Dylan was going to be okay. He’s going to survive. Saber smiled. He was going to survive. This wasn’t going to stop him.

Dylan’s stronger than that. He’s stronger than most of us. Even if he felt jealous of Raven’s attention, he knew. Dylan deserved her more than Saber will ever be. He will find someone. Someday.

CHAPTER FIVE

There was a knock on the door. The woman from before tentatively entered the room. She was holding the hand of the girl, Harper. She gasped when she saw Dylan. “I-I…I’m so sorry! You should’ve never gone in…” she trailed off. Dylan gazed at her with warmth. She went to the side of the bed. The nurse came in again. “We can’t treat him.”

Saber snapped around. “Why?” The nurse shook her head. “It’s the rule. You need to pay the bills.” Saber closed his eyes and bowed his head. “What’s wrong with this place? Why money in return for someone’s life?” He snarled. The nurse backed away. “I’m really sorry. It’s the government’s rules.”

“I’ll pay.” Saber turned to see the woman standing up. “For his full treatment. He saved Harper’s life. I’m paying back for everything he’s done.” Dylan’s eyes filled with gratitude.

“He’s going to survive!” The doctor informed Saber after waiting for a while in the waiting room. Saber turned to the woman. “Thank you so much!”

“It’s the least I can do, after what he’s done,” the woman said. They were able to return to the room. Dylan’s mask was taken off, and his heartbeat was strong and steady. They’ve treated him the best they could. “Thank you,” he breathed. The woman smiled warmly at him.

The money from the hotel was given back to them, and they rented out a different one. Newer and better cared for. Dylan was stronger, even if he had a few scars from the burns. “What about the elemental jewelry?” Raven murmured. “We don’t have enough to buy it.”

Dylan had a grim expression on his face. “Dylan…don’t do it!” Saber said cautiously. “We need to steal it. It’s the only way…”

“Dylan!” Raven scolded. “You’re too reckless, throwing yourself into danger. Who knows what the police would do if they catch you!”

Dylan turned to Raven. “Don’t you see? This can change the way of the Tribe’s fate. I might be able to stop the war before it starts.”

Saber shook his head. “Raven, you’re wasting your breath. You know you can’t persuade him to change his mind. But I’m not helping you. This is too dangerous, too risky.” He turned to Dylan. “Do what you want. But I’m warning you.” Dylan gave a slight nod. “I want to risk my life if it means saving four whole Tribes.” Saber backed down and watched as Dylan entered the jewelry store. It was raining heavily outside, and it was dark. Saber suddenly heard a piercing sound, like glass breaking. “Police! Robbery on Fourth Avenue, come quick!” He heard a man shout. Dylan was sprinting out of the store, his footsteps pounding on the now-wet ground. He could hear the police sirens from a close distance away. “Halt!” A man shouted. Dylan ignored him, and kept running. The cars finally surrounded him. The policemen held up their rifles. “Hands up!”

CHAPTER SIX

“He’s caught…” Saber trailed off. “What do we do?” Raven asked, a panicked edge to her voice. They watched as Dylan hesitated. His gaze locked with Saber’s. Does he want me to catch it? I told him I didn’t want to get involved! Dylan looked away like he just heard Saber’s thoughts. “Hands UP!” The lead policeman shouted again. His fingers were on the trigger. Dylan wrapped his hands tighter around the three precious jewelries.

“I…can’t,” he whispered hoarsely. The policeman had enough. “FIRE!” The policeman pulled the trigger. The whole thing seemed to be in slow motion, but Saber couldn’t do anything to stop it. Gunshots filled the air, smoke concealing Dylan from sight. The last thing he saw was Dylan violently jerk and collapse. “NO!!!” Raven wailed. “Hold the fire! He’s only FIFTEEN!” Saber screeched with rage. He couldn’t stop himself from hurling at the lead policeman and swiping his gun from him. He held the gun in front of him as the other policemen advanced on him. Saber jerked the trigger, firing a shot into the sky. His eyes were full of threat. “LEAVE.”

“Don’t hurt him too!” Raven shrieked with fury. “Just give us the things he stole,” the policeman said calmly. “JEWELRY is more valuable than LIFE? WHAT IS WRONG WITH YOU PEOPLE???”

“You know why he stole it? To save our people,” Saber said, his voice shaking hard with emotion. He smashed the gun against the ground and ran to where Dylan was lying. The elementals were in his limp hand. He barely was able to look. His hoodie was drenched with a mixture of rain and blood. Saber gently flipped him onto his back and closed his eyes. His hoodie was soaked with his blood. It appeared to be even worse. He could see where two bullets hit. He gently put his ear to his heart. To his surprise, it was still beating. “Gosh, he’s still alive!” Saber breathed.

“What do we do? The hospital wouldn’t take him in again!” Raven cried. She glared at the policemen watching. “Look what you did!” Her once-soft voice was now sharp and full of feeling.

“Where’s the jew-” Saber looked up to see the man from the store approaching. He cut himself off when he saw Dylan. “He doesn’t deserve this…he’s so young…” the man whispered while shaking his head. He turned to the policeman angrily. “I told you to get my jewelry back, not using a gun to shoot this young boy!!! What is he, seventeen?”

“Fifteen,” Raven hissed.

“We got to bring him back to the Eclipse Tribe,” Raven declared. “By then, it might be too late…” Saber muttered. But we have to try. It is his only hope.

CHAPTER SEVEN

Saber grabbed the policeman by his collar, twisting the blue cloth in his hands. He could feel the rifles of the other policemen pointing at him. “This is all your fault! Why would you shoot a teenage boy!?” He hissed menacingly. “Lower your guns,” the lead policeman muttered to the others. Saber kicked him to the ground, then ran over to the man. He hated pleading, but it had to be done. He knelt down in front of him and clasped his hands together. “I know this is stealing…but please, please let us keep it. Please…” he murmured desperately. “I know you don’t understand. I know you don’t know where we are actually from. But we need it. You’ll be saving many lives from battle. Please.” The man looked down at Saber’s pleading eyes, then at Dylan, lying motionless. “Yes.” Saber got up. “Thank you so much…” He looked back at Dylan.

“I don’t know if we can save him this time,” Saber whispered. “I feel really bad,” the man said mournfully. “I’ll come with you to your place. At least until I know he’s going to be okay.” Saber nodded in agreement. He gently lifted Dylan in his arms, and with Raven, started walking back. Dylan wasn’t breathing. Saber didn’t know how long he had. They trekked at a fast pace, nonstop. Dylan suddenly spasmed in Saber’s arms. He was getting sore. “S…aber?” He moaned weakly. “Dylan? Don’t worry, we’re almost there.” A series of spasms went through Dylan, and he went limp. “Dylan!?” Saber asked again, alarmed. He placed him down gently on the soft grass of the meadow. Raven put one ear to his chest. “Still alive,” she said with relief. “How…” the man asked in awe. “A normal person would’ve died by now.”

“It’s complicated,” Saber muttered. He didn’t feel like explaining when there were more important things to take care of. They continued towards the Eclipse Base and reached it in a short while. What Saber saw shocked him. They were fighting. The Eclipse Tribe was at war. Cobra, Phoenix, and Glacier were all clashing against one another with fierce blows. “STOP!” Saber yelled a commanding order. The Tribes froze and stared at him. “What are you doing?” He snapped. “Phoenix is stronger than any other Tribe, they have to accept that!” Riven proclaimed. “No, it’s not!” Snake protested. “This is what you’re fighting for? Strength?”

Frost suddenly bowed her head in shame. “If anything, stop fighting…for Dylan,” Saber whispered desperately. Snake suddenly noticed his brother. “...what…Dylan?” Snake closed his eyes and shook his head. Saber knew he was fighting his relationship that they had created, torn between his brother and his Tribe. Saber motioned for the man to bring Dylan indoors. “Cobra…retreat.”

“Why!?” Snake turned to Dallas, who was flaming with anger. “Because you have a relationship with a person in another Tribe!? Where does your loyalty lie for real, Snake?”

CHAPTER EIGHT

“How dare you question my loyalty!? I’m loyal to Cobra. I was for my entire life! I’m doing this because I want to save my people from war. Would you rather fight for dominance for the rest of your life?” Snake hissed. Dallas backed down. “Sorry…” he mumbled. “You’re loyal to Cobra.”

“Glacier, retreat,” Frost muttered. “There is nothing to fight for here anymore.” Saber turned to Riven. “Continue attacking Eclipse. I’m going to be a leader over all of them!” Saber’s eyes widened with shock. “Why…” he whispered. “I knew it! I knew you were ambitious, just like Twister!” Storm snarled. “Brother…why not join me? This is where you belong!” Riven suggested. “I…I’d rather die for peace than join you!” Storm backed away. Suddenly, something burst out of the Base. Dylan. His eyes were like flames, like water. Everlasting and deep. His wounds were suddenly gone. Everything. Saber watched in shock as the pendant and bracelets latched themselves onto him.

“If you dare to fight Eclipse, you dare to fight Whirlpool.” His voice was unnaturally powerful. Saber was confused. “Who’s Whirlpool?” Dylan turned to him. “The first person to have water powers. Ancient. Forgotten in history.” Suddenly, someone appeared beside Dylan. He was almost invisible, glowing, forming the shape of a boy not too older than Dylan. Saber watched in awe. “You’re Whirlpool…”

“I created the four magical pieces of jewelry. There hasn’t been another elemental.” Whirlpool turned to Dylan. “Until now. If you fight Eclipse, Riven, you’ll fight all of it.” Riven’s eyes were lit with fury. “Finish him!” Riven lunged at Dylan. He easily swiped him away. They went back and forth like that for a while. Until Dylan knocked the final blow. Riven lay there, panting. Dylan knelt down. “Listen, I don’t want to kill you. Retreat, Riven.” Riven suddenly pulled out a dagger and sent a powerful blow to the eye. Dylan covered his eye in pain, and used his power to knock Riven back against the wall. Since he was half-blinded, Riven was able to use that to his advantage. He ducked out of the way of his blow, and sent his own to his blind side. “Whirlpool, can’t you help?” Whirlpool shook his head. “This is Dylan’s battle.” Dylan sent a huge torrent of water straight at Riven and was able to knock him down again. Riven threw five of his daggers at Dylan. Saber flinched as the daggers painfully hit him. “Hmm…you have water powers and still cannot defeat me!? Crazy!” Riven jeered as he stood over him with the dagger pressing against his throat.

“Yes…I can defeat you. I was waiting for the right moment,” Dylan snarled. He pushed the dagger towards Riven and in a flash, slit his throat. “Riven…you’re too much like Twister to be leader of the Phoenix Tribe,” he breathed.

CHAPTER NINE

The thunder echoed in the cloudy sky. Rain started drenching them all. Saber shifted his gaze to Storm. He was staring at Dylan and Riven with cold, dark eyes. “Storm…” Dylan rasped. Storm suddenly lunged at him and pinned him down. His eyes were icy. He looked away. “He was still my brother. I never got to know him.”

“I’m sorry Storm…I’m sorry,” he whispered faintly. Storm looked back at him and sighed. “It’s not your fault. It was what you had to do. He was merciless, ready to kill you. You’re like a brother to me. More than Riven will ever be.” Storm got up and off of Dylan. Raven suddenly ran to him. “I was so scared that you were going to-” Dylan cut her off with a charming kiss. “No need,” he whispered in her ear, just barely enough for Saber to hear.

After the other Tribes went home, Saber, Dylan, and Raven were in the bedroom. They could hear the thunder and rain drumming on the ceiling. Saber thought it was soothing and relaxing after a long day. “You know, Dawn’s a nice girl,” Dylan said to Saber with a goofy grin. “I guess…” but he knew that Dylan meant well.

“Yes…she’s nice!” Raven said eagerly. “Maybe you found yourself a girlfriend, Saber,” Dylan added. Saber turned red with embarrassment. “Maybe…” he mumbled awkwardly. “But if we ever do, we’re not going to be a mushy couple like you two!” He said jokingly. “We aren’t all love and kisses!” Raven protested. “Well…what was that passionate and romantic kiss in the rain, Dylan?” He asked playfully. Now it was Dylan’s turn to blush. “Fine…you win,” he murmured with a smile. “But I still think Dawn’s going to be your favorite girl soon enough.” This time, Saber didn’t protest.

“Hi…” Saber turned to see the man from earlier. “I’m sorry to interrupt…I just wanted to apologize for calling the police on you,” he said, gesturing to Dylan. “I would’ve never done it if I knew they were going to shoot you.” Dylan softly smiled. “It’s okay, no use in regretting it now.”

“What’s your name?” the man asked. “Dylan,” Dylan murmured. The man gasped. “You’re the boy that saved Harper, aren’t you? My wife told me all about you!” He ran and embraced Dylan in a giant hug. Dylan awkwardly hugged him back. “Thank you,” he breathed. “Thank you so much!”

“No problem,” Dylan whispered. “What’s your name?”

“Maverick.” The man stepped back. “It’s about time I return to the city. I’m glad I got the chance to see a side of human life outside of the rule-packed place I live. A different way of life.” Saber nodded. “Thanks for coming with us,” he murmured. The man looked back at him, smiled one last time, and left.

“Well, that’s that,” Raven said, moving closer to Dylan. “I’m sure this is not the end. There’s more to come,” Dylan murmured. Saber knew he was talking about the battle on Eclipse’s land. I wonder what would happen.

CHAPTER TEN

Saber stood up to find himself in a lush, green meadow covered in flowers. The clouds danced in the sapphire blue sky. “Hello?” He asked curiously. A teenage boy stepped out from behind him. “Whirlpool?” Saber whispered. “That’s me,” Whirlpool murmured. “Why am I here?” Saber questioned. Whirlpool smiled. “Follow me.” Saber followed Whirlpool to a crystal clear pool of water. Saber gasped. There were gemstones surrounding the shimmering water, and people were sitting in a circle around it. A woman stood out to Saber. She had the same brown hair and amber eyes as him. She suddenly gasped, ran, and embraced Saber in a tight hug. “Oh…to see you so grown up,” she sobbed. “Mother?” Saber breathed. He didn’t remember her when she was alive. He faintly had a memory of her sweet scent and her brown hair glistening in the moonlight. Her strong voice, full of fear. His father’s eyes, full of love. “I’m here now,” his mother said. “What happened…why…why’d you leave me?” Saber whispered faintly, tears falling from his eyes. “Oh Saber…I didn’t have a choice. I wish I had the time to get to know you, but then Blade’s army attacked and-” Saber cut her off by hugging her back. A man approached them. “Father…” he ran and hugged him. “I wish I could’ve been beside you, watching you grow up. I’m sorry…”

“No! No…it’s okay, you guys are here now,” Saber murmured. “This is what I wanted to show you,” Whirlpool whispered. “Your parents.” Saber turned to him. “I can’t thank you enough. I’m so glad I finally know what happened.” Whirlpool nodded. “It’s time for you to go back.” As Saber watched, the meadow began to fade away along with his parents. They were watching him with pleasure and love. Saber hoped he would get to see them again someday. Maybe someday, he’ll join them too. Whirlpool's eyes remained for a moment longer before disappearing as well.

“Saber? Are you crying? What’s wrong?” Saber heard as he woke. Dylan was standing over him. “I heard you muttering something about your mother in your sleep.” Dylan’s eyes suddenly softened with understanding. “You met her, didn’t you? In your dreams.” Saber nodded. “I never got to know them. But at least I know they are safe.”

“Saber…you’ve been through so much. I’m sorry…I’m sorry I broke your heart.” Saber turned to see Raven with a guilty expression on her face. “There’s no need to apologize. I know you belong with Dylan. Maybe…just maybe…I belong with Dawn.” Dylan grinned. “Told you so,” he couldn’t help saying.

“We’ll help you charm her,” Raven added. “You’ll need it. Dawn is nice, kind, helpful, and most importantly, is your type!”

Saber shrugged. But deep down, he was excited. Things are at peace for now. Enjoy it while it lasts.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

Dylan and Saber decided to take a walk near the Glacier Tribe’s territory. Raven had been tired from last night, so she stayed behind. “Do you think that’s the end of the prophecy?” Dylan asked. “I don’t know…” Saber said. “Honestly, things happen so quickly.” He looked at Dylan. “Only around two months ago, I wanted you dead!” Dylan dipped his head. His eyes were glittering with emotion. “I want you to know…I fully trust you with my life now.” Saber gave him a brief hug.

Suddenly, a huge crash echoed in front of the Glacier Tribe’s Base. Dylan’s head snapped around. “Stay here,” he muttered, and dashed indoors. Saber followed, making sure to keep a good distance and hiding so that he wouldn’t be spotted.

What he saw horrified him. Riven was attacking her. The others watched. Many were watching in horror. A few were helping him, along with the entire Phoenix Tribe, people and everything. The guards and soldiers, with Storm, were driven back. “You don’t deserve to be a leader!” He shouted. “Riven…you’re ambitious, but…why?” Frost was frozen in fear and shock. “You’re a weak leader, and you don’t deserve this honor!” Riven kicked her to the ground.

“LEAVE MY MOTHER ALONE!” Saber watched as Dylan barged in between them. He had somehow managed to get a hold of six, small but deadly daggers, three in each hand. They were pointed in all directions. His eyes were full of threat. Saber ducked down. Dylan’s not the type of person you’d want to mess with if he’s furious. When he is, he's dangerous.

“Ah…Frost’s boy…you’re nothing like your mother. Willing to risk yourself for a loved one’s safety.” Riven grinned wickedly. “Take Frost,” he ordered a guard. The guard gestured to two more guards as they got hold of her. “Let her go,” Dylan hissed. Riven just smiled again. Dylan suddenly lunged for him, knocking him down and threatened him with one of the daggers. “Wow, fierce one, huh?”

Saber saw one of the men creeping up on him. “Dylan…DYLAN! Behind you!” Saber yelled, and ran to help. One of the men grabbed Saber and held him back. Dylan whipped around and threw all six of the daggers. But it was too late. The daggers were shockingly accurate, but the knife struck Dylan on his shoulder and arm. “What’s happening…” Dylan stumbled, staggered, then crumpled to the ground. “What did you do to him!?” Saber snarled. Riven grinned menacingly. “Poison knife,” he said, looking into Dylan’s eyes. “Take him, and let the others go. He’s what we are here for.” Realization struck Saber. It was a trap all along. To lead Dylan here.

“Leave.” The guard told Saber. “No! Dylan…I can’t leave you here!” Dylan glanced up feebly as the men began tying his wrists up. “It’s okay, Saber, it’s okay,” he comforted. “I’ll be fine.” Saber was trembling. He tried running towards him, but the guard pushed him back. Saber glared at him. “I’ll find him. He’s going to be back to Eclipse,” he vowed. “You are going to see me again.”

CHAPTER TWELVE

“WHAT?” Raven asked when Saber told her. “No…” she knelt down. Saber crouched to comfort her. “We’ll get him back.” Raven’s eyes lit with determination. “Yes. We will.” Saber stood up. “I want peace, but this is the only way to get it. “You’re saying…” Raven trailed off.

“Yes.” Saber looked at the Glacier Tribe’s Base. “War.”

Saber paced in the clearing. He had called all of Eclipse to gather. “I had tried to keep the peace, especially with the Phoenix Tribe. Where did that lead us? They just kept fighting, and they will continue. Now I learned my lesson. With the Phoenix Tribe, the only way to get peace…is battle. I declare WAR!” He watched coldly as the Eclipse Tribe cheered in support.

Loss had frozen his heart. Emotionless.

EPILOGUE

“Take him to Helix.” The guards dragged the teenage boy they were carrying in front of a man. He stared at the boy coldly. “What does Riven want with him?” He growled, looking back at the guards. “He wants to find a way to use his powers for our own benefit. It might help. Eclipse might attack after this. We have to be ready.” The man nodded slowly. “I’ll do just that. Run a few analyses, it should be good to use.”

COMING SOON, THREADS OF DESTINY, CLASH OF THE TRIBES BOOK THREE: THE OATH OF LOYALTIES