It was high noon as Umbra sat by a small river, lounging against a fallen log. She stared out almost oblivious to the surrounding world of the woods as she watched the water flow by almost hypnoticly. Her mind had been filled with thoughts when she came but it was nice to just put those thoughts away and just stay still for a moment. She gave a small sigh and looked up noticing a few squirrels in the trees darting after one another. They chased eachother up one trunk over to another tree and down that tree's trunk and ran around stones dotted along the forest floor.

She reached to her side and untied a small cord that held her pipes to her belt. She put them to her lips and began to play a song. When she played the animals seemed to have frozen in their place as if they wanted to listen to the song played by the pipes. She closed her eyes and let her mind drift off with the music, the world of the Taurai woods disappeared as her song played. She let her feelings flow through the notes and play her song. The sun sifted through the trees as her notes were carried out far and wide, the brook continued on its way taking her notes with it to add another sorrowful story to its ever growing libary of observances. She was so focused on the music she was playing she had not noticed the figure who was listening.

The Taurai woods was not somewhere that Zenith Meria went to very often, but on this day he had felt something within him telling him to go there, as if someone he knew was in danger, and so he had set off to the woods within a matter of moments after having said feeling. On this day the angel still had on his usual golden armour with his blade hanging down near his waist, although he had brought along a few of his newly acquired items such as a blue cloak wrapped over his shoulders that held the power of Ice within it. The other new piece of equipment Zenith had taken along with him was a bow that was strapped onto his back ready to be used in a moments notice.

As he walked through the woods the sound of music swiftly graced his ears, it was a sound Zenith had heard before. He knew who was not to far ahead of him now; it was one of his old friends known as Umbra. Increasing his pace through the woodland Zenith soon saw the form of Umbra not to far ahead of him. Seeing her so calm and at peace brought a smile along the lips of the angel as he locked his eyes onto the woman, his hair began to fly back behind his form as a sudden gust of wind flew past him. Making sure his shield was strapped tightly on his left arm Zenith then walked forward towards Umbra before he said, “Well hello again friend. It is good to see you Umbra, are you ok?” After he had finished talking Zenith waited on the reply of Umbra.

Of course as he waited on a reply something began to dart quickly between the blades behind the angels form, it was a Fairy and the little thing had taken to following Zenith on his travels now wherever he went. Soon the Fairy flew up and landed on the angels shoulder with a small giggle before she said, “You can’t get rid of Ashe that easy Mister Meria!” Zenith did not reply to the Fairy and instead let out a small sigh still waiting on a reply from Umbra.

The morning was sickeningly peacefull. Not a cloud in the sky on a bright spring morning. Rumasak rolled his eyes at the birds who darted around his head. You would think finding someone in this forest. But the demon could smell her, yes her scent was fresh and strong. She was nearby, she had to be. Rumasak put his nose to the ground, literaly, and smelled the scent of Umbra. "Found you. Did you think you could escape?" he said to the forest around him.

He stood up fully and glared at the forest around him as he heard someone play the pipes. He smirked as his dark eyes scowered the area and he jumped up onto a branch. He looked across the forest and lept from one tree to another an evil, fanged grin spread across his face. It was not long before he came closer. He could already see her by scrying, but another was with her. An angel, he gritted his teeth, guess he would have to improvise a little now. Shoulda known better. Should have known that doing this would not have been easy. he thought. He finally got to the group and stood in the tree for a moment, “Well hello again friend. It is good to see you Umbra, are you ok?” the angel had said.

The demon gave a fake friendly smile, "As am I!" he said and jumped down from the tree, "I was concerned for your safety after I heard about Silmecahal, so my little moon how have you been?" he asked as a fairy appeared. “You can’t get rid of Ashe that easy Mister Meria!” the faerie said. Rumasak froze with a look of fear and astonishment on his face. This would be harder than he thought. But it was only for a moment then he regained himself. "Wait...an angel named Meria? Your Zenith Meria are you not? A pleasure to meet you, I have heard of your exploit on istilipe with three of the children...Glad to see you helped them." he said with a fake sound of joy in his voice. "So Umbra, I know I already know his name but why don't you introduce me to your friend here? he said.

Umbra had closed her eyes as she played, not realizing that someone had approached. “Well hello again friend. It is good to see you Umbra, are you ok?” a familiar voice said. She oppened her eyes wide and stopped playing as she looked up to find Zenith smiling at her. She opened her mouth to say something but quickly shut it. She felt her face burn with embarrasment and knew that she had to be blushing at the fact he was standing there right when she was playing. She quickly stood up fumbling with the strap that held the pipes at her waste as her hands shook. She really was not expecting someone to be there, and even less expecting Zenith to be the one listening.

She shook her head to clear her thoughts and shoved the feeling of embarrasment out of her mind, "Um...Yea. Hey. Ungh, Hello Zenith, good to see you this morning, and yes...I am fine. Uh...How long have you been standing here?" she stammered. She could not think straight, before he could answer a voice came out from the tree nearby, "As am I!" Umbra, unlike Zenith, could not sence the alignments of those who were evil nor did she have a Sinadrin to tell her, but something evil was definately near. She could feel the shiver go down her spine at the sound of the voice. She turned as a demon landed nearby. She froze and took a step back towards Zenith. "I was concerned for your safety after I heard about Silmecahal, so my little moon how have you been?" he asked.

She narrowed her eyes but before she could tell him a faerie appeared out from behind Zenith, “You can’t get rid of Ashe that easy Mister Meria!” She looked at the faerie as Zenith sighed. Her hand moved slowly towards the hilt of her newest weapon, a holy blade. The demon she knew well, she had to after all he was the very person who helped bring her into the world. The demon was Rumasak her father. But something about him felt different, he seemed more dark, more threatening, more evil. "Wait...an angel named Meria? Your Zenith Meria are you not? A pleasure to meet you, I have heard of your exploit on istilipe with three of the children...Glad to see you helped them. So Umbra, I know I already know his name but why don't you introduce me to your friend here?" Rumasak had asked her. She took another step towards Zenith this time standing about a foot in front of him. She gripped the hilt of her sword, "Your right, he is Zenith Meria. Which gives you more of a reason to leave now while you still have a choice. I have raised my blade to my friends, don't think that just because you are my father I will not raise it to you..." she said. She had a feeling Zenith had no clue what she was talking about but she knew for a fact he would help her with any threat. And she knew right now the biggest threat was in front of her, the only thing was that the threatener and the person being threatened were father and daughter.

Zenith could not help but smile, as well as fight back a slight laugh, as Umbra stumbled to her feet and said, "Um...Yea. Hey. Ungh, Hello Zenith, good to see you this morning, and yes...I am fine. Uh...How long have you been standing here?" Of course before Zenith was able to actually answer Umbra another being had shown up, or rather fallen in, on the pair. Right away Zenith could feel the power of Darkness running through the demonic being in front of him. Zenith narrowed his eyes towards this demon as he soon said to Umbra, and Zenith, "Wait...an angel named Meria? Your Zenith Meria are you not? A pleasure to meet you, I have heard of your exploit on Istilipe with three of the children...Glad to see you helped them. So Umbra, I know I already know his name but why don't you introduce me to your friend here?" It was right after the demon had said this, as well as Umbra taking a step towards him, that Zenith knew for a fact he was in for a battle and soon!

Slowly the Arch Angel of Life moved his right hand out towards his side, as he did this he heard Umbra say, "Your right, he is Zenith Meria. Which gives you more of a reason to leave now while you still have a choice. I have raised my blade to my friends, don't think that just because you are my father I will not raise it to you..." However Zenith felt it was now his turn to make himself known to this demonic creature before him.

Suddenly the right hand of the angel began to glow at the sword that had been resting in a holster at his side only seconds ago was now held tight within the grasp of his hand. This was only possible due to the one of the many effects of Zeniths armour that covered his entire body. With Salvations Judgement, a combination of a Holy Blade and Resplendent Countering Longsword, in hand Zenith slowly parted his lips and said to the form of Rumasak, “Now demon! You dare to cross paths with us? I can feel great evil within you and if you think you can easily attack Umbra then think again. She promised to help me whenever needed, and in return I vow to do the same. If you wish to harm Umbra then you must also face me, seems like the odds are not in your favour Dear Sir. Leave now before we cut you down to size!” Right after saying this Zenith narrowed his eyes towards Rumasak, it was clear the angel was angry and with good reason! He was getting sick of people trying to hurt his loved ones, and was set on stopping it for good.

With these words passed his lips Zenith body seemed to begin to glow. It was his Holy Aura showing through once more, this was due to his training with the Goddess of Life. Zenith Meria was ready for a battle; he just had to wait for the right timing to arise.

Rumasak was only half surprised when Umbra drew her sword. So she knows my little secret does she....Heh, I bet she does not know it all. he thought. But his eyes widdened when he saw what she was holding. "A holy blade...How is it possible that she could weild such a blade? I thought..." he began thinking but Zeniths voice broke his thoughts as the angelic being's sword appeared in his hand. “Now demon! You dare to cross paths with us? I can feel great evil within you and if you think you can easily attack Umbra then think again. She promised to help me whenever needed, and in return I vow to do the same. If you wish to harm Umbra then you must also face me, seems like the odds are not in your favour Dear Sir. Leave now before we cut you down to size!”

Rumasak could not help but give an evil laugh at this. "An oath? I always knew demons to keep their word. But an angel? I wonder how long you would keep it Zenith...Maybe keep her alive now. But kill her when you are through with her. I have known angels to do such things." he said looking at them both with an evil smile. "So Zenith...when do you plan to kill Umbra? Hmmm? I know you think it...I can see it in your eyes." he said trying to get the two of them to distrust each other. He looked evily at them and hoped his words and plan would work.

Umbra felt Zenith stiffen getting himself ready for a fight. Umbra held her blade at the ready, preparing for anything. She could not tell what Rumasak was here for, which made her even more carefull. He had disappeared for months and now he finally showed his face, but why here? And why now, she hated not knowing the answers to those questions. She felt a shiver go down her spine as he looked at her with blood lust eyes. She had seen those kinds of eyes before. Many times on Khaos, twice on a very good friend of hers and once on herself. It felt almost strange, being here confronting her father. But she could smell the evil waifting off of him, the darkness that consumed his very mind and soul. And she knew the smell well. Only one thing smelled this horrid, no matter who it came from. It was the stench of revenge. Of hatred and a deep longing to destroy something. A longing that consumed the mind and soul untill they were only able to focus on that one thought.

Umbra saw Zenith ready as he made himself known. “Now demon! You dare to cross paths with us? I can feel great evil within you and if you think you can easily attack Umbra then think again. She promised to help me whenever needed, and in return I vow to do the same. If you wish to harm Umbra then you must also face me, seems like the odds are not in your favour Dear Sir. Leave now before we cut you down to size!” he said. Umbra felt relieved that Zenith was here for her. Rumasak appeared surprised as she drew her blade. Standing next to Zenith she waited for his move. Rumasak gave an evil laugh as he looked at Zenith square in the eye. "An oath? I always knew demons to keep their word. But an angel? I wonder how long you would keep it Zenith...Maybe keep her alive now. But kill her when you are through with her. I have known angels to do such things." He said. Umbra stiffened trying to block the memories from her mind. To keep focused on the one task at hand. "Quiet..." she gritted through her teeth, but Rumasak kept going. "So Zenith...when do you plan to kill Umbra? Hmmm? I know you think it...I can see it in your eyes." he said.

Umbra stared hard at the ground as the memories flodded her mind. She could see the look on Akito's face as he approached her. She could still see him as he killed Cirrus and Kathy, as he burned the forest. The memory was still fresh in her mind. "Shut it!" she said and then looked at Zenith, uncertianty in her eyes. In any match he would greatly out match her. She stood no chance against him. 'Do you actually think that Zenith would hurt you?' Mitzuki said. Umbra shut her eyes trying to clear her thoughts. 'I don't...I don't know. He could if he wanted.' she said. 'But he would never do that...He had the chance once and spared your life. Remember?' Mitzuki asked. Umbra remembered the battle she had with Zenith, on the Eastern coast. Zenith had brought her to her knees. And yet he spared her life when he was able to kill her. She snapped her eyes open. "I don't know what you have planned...But your manipulation won't work on me...Zenith would never kill me. You would have a better chance of proving that he is Raku's son!" she said as she readied herself. "You ready to get this guy?" she asked Zenith taking a stance by him.

One thing led to another, to thing this day had started with Zenith just seeing his good friend Umbra and now he was getting ready to battle against her father who seemed to want both Umbra and Zenith dead. It was not long after Zenith had spoke that he heard the voice of this demonic fool ring through the air as he said, "An oath? I always knew demons to keep their word. But an angel? I wonder how long you would keep it Zenith...Maybe keep her alive now. But kill her when you are through with her. I have known angels to do such things. So Zenith...when do you plan to kill Umbra? Hmmm? I know you think it...I can see it in your eyes." All the angel did once this was said was look right towards the form of Umbra that stood before him, he just to hope that she would remember all they had been through in the past.

Once Zenith had spared Umbra’s life in a battle, and even healed the woman and on another occasion Umbra had stopped Zenith from killing himself and thus restored his faith in the forces of Life and Light. Yes the angel owed much to the woman that stood by his side, he cared for her a lot and knew for sure at that moment in time that no matter what happen Umbra would always be one of his closest friends in this world known as Arda.

In a matter of moments Zenith saw Umbra’s eyes snap open and her body form ready itself for an attack as she said, "I don't know what you have planned...But your manipulation won't work on me...Zenith would never kill me. You would have a better chance of proving that he is Raku's son!" The last part of what Umbra has said infact made Zenith laugh a little, that was until Umbra looked towards him and said, "You ready to get this guy?" With a clear nod the Arch Angel then said, “You better believe I am ready Umbra. If this fool thinks he can take us both on at the same time then he is sadly mistaken!” Almost instantly after saying this the young Divine Protector raised Salvations Judgement as to hold it tight within both of his hands. He was ready to take on this fool known as Rumasak, and knew for sure this demonic man would not win.

Rumasak looked at them. He could tell he got to Umbra, she was breaking. Even though he knew nothing about her past with angels he knew he could get into her head. He seen her look at Zenith questioning him with her eyes. She told him to be quiet but he didn't he pushed it even further. "Please...That angel? He won't protect you when you need it. I would not be surprised if he turns around right now and stabs you with that sword." he said when Umbra's eyes snapped open. "I don't know what you have planned...But your manipulation won't work on me...Zenith would never kill me. You would have a better chance of proving that he is Raku's son!" she said to him.

Rumasak took a step back, he felt a strong pulse from her. Where did that feeling come from...There is something there...Something inside her. I need to end this now. He thought. Zenith got ready for an attack. “You better believe I am ready Umbra. If this fool thinks he can take us both on at the same time then he is sadly mistaken!” he said. Rumasak drew his blade and stood ready, "So the two of you think you can take me? Lets see if you Protecters of Life and Light can stop me!" he said running towards them to attack and slashed at the two of them.

Umbra saw Rumasak as he kept trying to trick her but she knew he could not get to her. He finally drew his blade at them. "So the two of you think you can take me? Lets see if you Protecters of Life and Light can stop me!" He said as he ran at them and slashed. “Lets Go Zenith.” She said dodging to the side. She knew that Zenith’s armor was too strong for someone with Rumasak’s strength to pierce the armor. She knew Zenith could stand in one spot and Rumasak would not find a single weak point in the armor. She knew that from expierence.

Umbra spun around holding her Holy Blade at the ready, just in case Zenith was unable to avoid the attack. Mother...Our family is truely broken. Rumasak is overcome with rage and revenge. You are dead, and now I am alone in this world. There is nothing left for me now except to help defend my friend. she thought in her mind. But right now she had to stay concentrating. She had to help Zenith beat Rumasak. She would not allow Rumasak to harm anyone else. Not again.

The forest that was once a place for resting was now a battleground. No longer were the animals playing about but many looked on as the trio fought, almost like an audience, and the forest floor was the arena. She moved across the stream and held out her hand. A silverish purple orb glowed in her hand. "I won't let you win Rumasak. Not now, not ever. This ends today. I refuse to let you hurt my friends, or this world." she whispered to herself as she blasted the Missle towards Rumasak as he tried to slash them.

The ethereal being of life stood his ground, his eyes still locked on the form of Rumasak who was standing right in front of his form, only mere moments after both Zenith and Umbra had spoken did Rumasak say in a dark voice, "So the two of you think you can take me? Lets see if you Protectors of Life and Light can stop me!" Zenith could not help but smirk at this comment. Once his words fully slipped past his tongue Rumasak lunged himself forward for the two beings that vowed to slay him, with every step taken forward Zenith could see the demonic man changing the angle his sword moved at through the air. He seemed set on delivering a basic swipe through the air to try and take both Umbra and Zenith out quickly, did this fool really think he could finish the band of friends that quickly? If so then he was wrong beyond a shadow of a doubt.

Umbra seemed to react more than Zenith at the strike from Rumasak as she quickly dodged out of the way, the angel on the other hand merely held his ground as the blade of the demon drew in ever closer towards his armour, then just as the blade of Umbra’s Father was about to make contact with the golden surface of the Resplendent Armour Zenith instantly vanished for sight.

Teleport was always a useful spell, and one that Zenith was very fond of using to, simply put it, annoy the one he was in battle with. As the angel teleported away from the sight of Rumasak and Umbra the female friend of the Arch Angel sent forth a powerful blast of magic from her palm, it was the Magic Missile spell and Zenith knew all to well the sting it could deliver to ones body when impact is made. From the tree he had teleported into Zenith sent forth his own blast of magic at the demon, forming a large ball of fire in each of his hands, as his sword lay in its scabbard once more, Zenith unleashed the full power of the incredible Fireball spell.

The two large balls of fire headed right for Rumasak, but as they burned through the air another latent effect of Zeniths magic kicked in, each ball of fire split into three, so now six large balls of fire as well as a magic missile were all headed for the follower of Darkness. If this fool thought that Zeniths spell would lack proper power since it was split into six then he would be wrong, as with his Barrage effect in play each ball of fire was just a powerful as the original ones they had been created from.

However the attack of the angel was not over yet! He leaped out from the tree while at the same time throwing Salvations Judgement out of its scabbard and into the air, with the sword now above him Zenith shifted his body weight so that his feet met with the hilt of the blade. As his foot connected with the blades hilt it was sent spiralling through the air in an attempt to rip into the neck of Rumasak. The battle was heating up quickly and the Arch Angel of Life wanted to make sure the demon would not forget this day for as long as he lived.

Rumasak, blinded by both hatred and a lust for revenge sped towards his daughter and the archangel. “Lets Go Zenith.” she said as she dodged to the side as his blade swipped the air where she once was and sped towards Zenith. The angel merely stood there with a smirk on his face which angered Rumasak even further. How DARE that angel get into my fight, I'll kill him and then go for Umbra! He thought as he fueled his full strength into the swing as it inched towards Zenith. Right when it would have split his chest wide open Zenith vanished from sight.

Rumasak froze as he looked around for the angel and Umbra. He gritted his teeth and looked for them, suddenly his ears perked at a voice. He looked across the river and saw Umbra blasting a magic missle at him. It was too late though, it flew swift and straight at him and planted its attack on his shoulder, then he heard a sizzle in the air as he recoiled. He turned to find two fireballs splitting into six smaller ones. He dodged two of them but was hit in the shoulder by one and was pummled by the thre others. His skin burned and clothes were singed as he fell backwards into the river to put them out. He winced in pain as he stood up.

The burning from the fireballs was immence, he had not expected such small balls to be so powerfull. He had truely underestimated this Archangel, him as well as Umbra. How did they get so powerfull? Where does her strenght come from? The Light cannot be as strong as the Darkness. Death is eternal! he thought as he seen Zenith jump into the air. The demon was on his guard as Zenith kicked his sword at him, sending it spiraling towards Rumasak. He dodged but it was too slow, the sword ripped through the cloth on his shirt and sliced his back, it was a miracle that it missed his spine and did not paralze him. Blood oozed out of the wound like a crimson waterfall. he winced in pain and stared at them, his eyes darkened and he could not even think as the blade covered in blood landed next to him. He turned deciding to use the weapon against its owner, not thinking he grabbed the scabbard and a bright light shined from it and he withdrew, "GEAARRRGGGH!" he cried as the scabbard's image was burned into his hand as the power of holyness in the sword prevented him from picking it up. He stared angrily at them as he knew he was taking damage. He put both hands out, chaotic energy formed and he let loose his Chaotic lightining spell at the both of them.

Umbra smiled as she saw Zenith teleport. She remembered that technique well, she had once tried to use it on Zenith herself. The fight had just started and Rumasak was losing pretty badly. Both her and Zeniths attacks hit their marks. She watched emotionlessly as Rumasak fell back and doused himself in the small river that went between them. She looked up at Zenith watching him kick his sword sending it spiralling towards Rumasak. Even though they were enemies Umbra winced on the inside as it cut through her fathers back, for even though they were enemies, he was still the man who gave her life. And nothing anyone could do could change that fact.

Umbra watched the blade land and tried to grab it before Rumasak could, but he wrapped his hand around its hilt. She knew that blade was powerfull, one of Zeniths best weapons. She stepped back as Rumasak recoiled dropping the sword. She watched as the holy energy burned the scabbards design into his palm. That has to hurt. she thought as Rumasak looked at both of them. His hands outstreached facing the both of them as chaotic energy blasted from his palms. She dove out of the way landing face down as the energy blasted just above her head. She felt a few of her hairs singe as she landed, heat enveloped the air above her as she rolled into the shadows and using her Cloak of Dark power, disappeared in the shadowes of the trees. She looked up at him, she could smell the charred hair strands as she placed her back against the trunk drawing her holy blade, keeping carefull to avoid using the special ability of wings untill she was able to use them. This ends today. she thought.

There were so many different attacks heading right at the twisted form of Rumasak that Zenith began to think the battle was going to be over before it had even fully began. It was almost to much for the winged warrior of life to watch as most of the attacks make contact with the demonic beast called Rumasak, although the thing that shocked Zenith even more than the blasts of magic slamming into Rumasak was when the demon went to pick up Zeniths golden blade. By taking Salvations Judgement into his hands Rumasak caused himself even more pain thanks to the markings placed in the blade from the Goddess of Life, it was not long before the mighty weapon of Life clashed upon the ground once more and the anger within Rumasak grow to a further level of destruction.

With a look intent on death in his eyes Rumasak raised both of his arms to his sides, with the fury inside his body building up the angel seen one of the most Chaotic spells in Arda begin to come into focus. Crackling red lighting sprawling down the demons arms like a flowing river, wrapping and twisting itself around his arms and fingers like a flowing trail of thorns. Slowly the river of lightning spread its way towards the demons fingertips before it blasted out at an ungodly speed in the direction of both Zenith and Umbra.

The angel could see that Umbra had managed to jump down onto the ground and avoid the blast, but now it was his turn to get out of the way. With the blast closing it in on him the Arch Angel raised his left arm, that had the Mithril Shield strapped tightly onto it, the blasts of chaos crashed against the shield and managed to push the angelic figure back a couple of feet however no clear damage seemed to have been done to Zenith, or the sturdy shield for that matter. Still holding back the constant stream of Lightning an idea came to the mind of Zenith, a smirk formed along his lips once more from below his helm as he cast one of his many spells, a chaos spell of his own commonly called Redirect Spell. With this in effect the lighting that was clashing with his shield suddenly turned mid stream and began heading right back towards Rumasak! This demon would soon learn that the Arch Angel of Life has a vast knowledge of the Arcane arts, especially for someone so young.

Even though Zenith had managed to return the demons attack back onto himself the dedicated Paladin of Life was not going to stop there, swiftly he reached out with his right hand which again produced a bright flash as Salvations Judgement was returned into its grasp. With weapon in hand once more Zenith did something Rumasak might have not expected, the angel placed the blade back down by his side strapped onto his belt. He knew that going in for a close counters all out attack might not have been in his favour and thus Zenith opted to cast one more spell that would, with luck, seal the fate of this two of one battle.

Placing his hands together in what looked like a symbol of pray Zenith closed his eyes tightly, the rock particles around him very slowly raised into the air as the mana of the angel flowed steadily through his body, then in a matter of moments Zenith Meria opened his eyes and pushed both of his hands forward.

Nothing left his open palms, and to most it would look as though the spell being used has failed but indeed it had not failed, for above the form of Rumasak the true force of Holiness had been set in motion. The spell used created a large bolt of Holy Fire in the air above the evil demon, and as soon as the fire had appeared it began its decent towards the ground below where Rumasak was stood. If this bolt were to make impact with the ground it would instantly begin to crack up the land just from the force, and would in turn damage all evil in a five foot radius of the blast zone as well as knocking them back two feet or so. It was one of Zeniths most powerful spells and he just had to hope Rumasak was foolish enough not to look upwards!

Rumasak cursed his luck as he watched Umbra dodge and roll out of the way. This demon was definately full of pure evil, he attacked his daughter and did not care if she lived or died. He could smell her hair being singed as she ducked for cover. "You got lucky brat." he said and then turned to Zenith just as the Crimson lightning hit his sheild. Rumasak gritted his teeth as he put all his strength and mana into his crimson lightning pelting the sheild of the Archangel. If he could take down the angel then he could get rid of Umbra easier.

Rumasak's heart was cold as he shifted and let both hands use his lightning attack. His heart was full of rage as his hatred and anger grew to unmeasureable heights. His demonic blood boiled as he fulled all his mana into the attack when suddenly the attack turned on him in mid stream. He dodged as the attack hit the ground with tremendous force. A yard diameter crater was imprented on the ground. He looked around searching for where Umbra went, he was so intent on the fact of finding her that he failed to see Zenith put his sword away. He searched for her when he saw her hiding behind a tree. "You will have to do better than that, Jai Nuna..." he said as he put his hand out. "Lets see if your Angel friend can help you now." he said. Suddenly he felt a heatwave from somewhere. He turned and saw Zenith facing him with his palms towards the demon.

Rumasak looked at him wondering what Zenith was doing. He suddenly heard something, like a cracking. "What the?" he said looking up and a split second later he was hit by the purge spell. The holy energy pulsated through every cell in his body with holy fire. He flew back two feet and hit a tree groaning in pain almost unable to move. He struggled to stand up pulling himself on the tree leaning against it. He watched the angel with hatred in his eyes as he held his sword by his side. It hurt to move, it hurt to breathe, he was not sure how much more he could stand.

Even though everything was going all out at the moment Umbra could feel that this battle would end soon, and hopefully if the Goddess's of Life and Light favored them, in her and Zenith favor. But she knew that Raku and Xoco, the Dieties of Darkness and Shadows were also in her fathers favor. Hopefully they could end it before the power of Darkness in her father truely reigned over his personality and completely obliterate any humanity in him, as if losing his old self was not enough. Umbra knew the power of darkness, probably better than Zenith did.

She watched as Rumasak dodged. She breathed a sigh of relief inside but then forced herself to harden, he was not her father any longer. The power of evil had consumed him she had to force herself to focus on the task at hand, fight now worry about her fathers turn later. She watched as he looked for her, but behind him Zenith was putting away his sword. Zenith what the heck are you doing?" she thought. Thats when she saw him praying. She recongnized the spell almost immediately. He had used it on her once before. During their fight on the beach. "You will have to do better than that, Jai Nuna..." Rumasak said as she peered from behind the tree. She knew he caught her, she held her holy blade tight as the words hit her straight. She held back the outburst and moved from behind the tree just as he got ready to attack, "Lets see if your Angel friend can help you now." he said just as the attack hit the area. She felt the ground shake underneath her as the attack hit both of them. She watched him fly back as she struggled to stay standing from the tremor of the attack. She watched as Rumasak struggled to stand up. She knew the feeling as she watched him struggle, but no sympathy was shown on her face.

She held back everything she had been feeling, she knew there was no hope to show any emotion right now. If she did it would lead her to holding back, right now she could not afford to. She looked at Zenith as his attack was finished and held her sword out ready to end it, she gave him a nod and looked back at Rumasak ready for any move he would make.

With heat growing and light becoming brighter around the area the three warriors stood it was clear that Zenith Maria’s Purge spell was about to take effect onto the land. Zenith could not help but keep his eyes on Rumasak as the demon looked at him; the angel felt no guilt what-so-ever in using such a powerful spell on this pathetic demonic life form called Rumasak. Then narrowing his eyes Zenith continued to watch as the Holy Fire blazed around the man and then soon sent him back two feet into the trunk of a tree. The Arch Angel never removed his gaze from Rumasak during this for even one moment.

Zenith did not like having to kill others, but in truth he thought Rumasak needed to die, the demon had tried to kill his daughter, which in the eyes of the ethereal one was just wrong. The angel knew what it was like to see the ones you loved being killed, after all his older brother Alba had killed his entire family leaving only Zenith and his sister Rinoa alive, after that day the Arch Angel of Life had set out on revenge against his brother, but when it came down to the final battle Zenith was able to see the light in his brothers heart when he had been taken from the world. For years the power inside of Alba had caused him to be enraged as it was to much for him to bare, then when Zenith had defeated him in battle the Alba that the winged one knew from his past was shown once more, the loving older brother that wanted to help Zenith!

That was when it clicked, maybe if both Umbra and Zenith kept using Holy based attacks on Rumasak then the demonic man may show his fatherly figure once more and try to protect his daughter again instead of killing her. Only after this thought Zenith looked right towards Umbra as she held her sword out ready to battle again. Withdrawing his sword from its sheath once more Zenith walked over towards Umbra and said, “We should let him speak before fighting anymore. I do not like to attack people when they are down, you know that Umbra, as I once used that spell on you. Of course it would have no effect on you these days!” Zenith then smiled a little before removing his helm and looking right towards Rumasak.

Rumasak watched them both as they looked at him. He stared off into the distance a glare of hatred and overwhelming darkness shined in his eyes. He gasped for air as he used the tree to brace himself. He looked at them, looking from one to the other. He knew his mana was almost all gone. He cursed himself for using up the majority of it trying to harm Zenith. His gasps where long and deep as he tried to fight the pain that shot through his entire body. The fact that Rumasak was not dead was a miracle in itself.

He watched with dark eyes as Umbra gave Zenith a nod. He gritted his teeth in pain as he stood up fully pushing away from the tree, he wobbled but was able to stand up fully as he fought back the pain. Zenith seemed to have an idea pop into his head and he looked at her. “We should let him speak before fighting anymore. I do not like to attack people when they are down, you know that Umbra, as I once used that spell on you. Of course it would have no effect on you these days!” the Archangel of Life said. He looked at him and gave a chuckle. "Talk is cheap Angel...those who spend their time talking always end up to be the first who take the sword in the heart. But you don't want to talk do you? You want to know why..." he began slouching back on the tree. He took another gasp as he looked at Zenith dead in the eyes. "Why I want Umbra dead. Why I want revenge against her. Would you still call her friend if you knew she was the cause of her death Zenith Meria, Divine Protector? Would you still protect her if you knew that she died because Umbra killed her and took her very life from her? Umbra killed her , and now I will take my revenge on all those who aided that fact. Umbra is the key to reviving her, and I swore to her that I would kill all those responcible for her death, and Umbra is the only cause remaining." he said. He looked at Umbra, "You killed her, and I will kill you and take back what is needed to return her to this world. So long, Jai Nuna. May Lothlomendil curse you to forever walk on this world and never gain peace." he said trying to figure out how much he could move and how much mana he had left. He tried to push himself up but fell sideways back on the tree. His shirt moved down a little revealing a four leafed flower mark on his neck. The four petals were a grey shade while the leaves were forest green, in the middle was a black circle. He turned and watched them trying to form a plan.

Umbra watched as Zenith looked at her and smiled taking off his helmet. “We should let him speak before fighting anymore. I do not like to attack people when they are down, you know that Umbra, as I once used that spell on you. Of course it would have no effect on you these days!” he said. She gave a half smile at that and looked at Rumasak as he struggled to stand on the tree.

Never in all her life had she seen such a pathetic being. The once proud and strong Captian of the Shiruiku Clan of the Moon Demons was now the fallen from glory man she saw in front of her. Her heart ached but she blocked it out of her mind. She knew that she could not afford her nor Zeniths safety if Rumasak was allowed to get into her mind. He was not her father, not right now, but an enemy. She watched as Rumasak looked her in the eyes. "Talk is cheap Angel...those who spend their time talking always end up to be the first who take the sword in the heart. But you don't want to talk do you? You want to know why..." he said looking at Zenith as he fell back onto the tree."Why I want Umbra dead. Why I want revenge against her. Would you still call her friend if you knew she was the cause of her death Zenith Meria, Divine Protector? Would you still protect her if you knew that she died because Umbra killed her and took her very life from her? Umbra killed her, and now I will take my revenge on all those who aided that fact. Umbra is the key to reviving her, and I swore to her that I would kill all those responcible for her death, and Umbra is the only cause remaining."

He looked at Umbra and she saw the darkness and hatred for her in his eyes. She knew that it was not her fault what happened. Well, it was, but that was beside the point. "It wasn't my fault Rumasak. How could it be? She was a human, and I know I am talking about her like this but come on. I had no part in it. Do you think I want to live my entire life not knowing what she looked like? Rumasak...Father, I never wanted to kill her. The Goddess of Life held her hour glass and saw it was time for her to die so she started mine." she said as he looked at her. "You killed her, and I will kill you and take back what is needed to return her to this world. So long, Jai Nuna. May Lothlomendil curse you to forever walk on this world and never gain peace." Rumasak spat back at her. As she watched him struggle she saw the mark on his neck. Her eyes went wide and she knew tht there would be no reasoning with him.

It was clear that Rumasak was in great pain and held a lot of anger at both Umbra and Zenith. Narrowing his eyes the angel began to listen on as Rumasak went into a long speech. His words were; "Talk is cheap Angel...those who spend their time talking always end up to be the first who take the sword in the heart. But you don't want to talk do you? You want to know why..." Once saying this the demon locked his eyes with Zenith then continued on by saying; "Why I want Umbra dead. Why I want revenge against her. Would you still call her friend if you knew she was the cause of her death Zenith Meria, Divine Protector? Would you still protect her if you knew that she died because Umbra killed her and took her very life from her? Umbra killed her, and now I will take my revenge on all those who aided that fact. Umbra is the key to reviving her, and I swore to her that I would kill all those responsible for her death, and Umbra is the only cause remaining." It was after saying this that Rumasak shifted his gaze to Umbra.

Of course the now Lawful Umbra had something to say back to her father and that was, "It wasn't my fault Rumasak. How could it be? She was a human, and I know I am talking about her like this but come on. I had no part in it. Do you think I want to live my entire life not knowing what she looked like? Rumasak...Father, I never wanted to kill her. The Goddess of Life held her hour glass and saw it was time for her to die so she started mine." Instantly after Umbra had finished talking Rumasak snapped back at her; "You killed her, and I will kill you and take back what is needed to return her to this world. So long, Jai Nuna. May Lothlómendil curse you to forever walk on this world and never gain peace." It was at that moment the Arch Angel of Life filled with anger, he did not like having to witness this verbal attack on one of his closest friends and what made it ever worse was that her father was treating her this way!

Zenith Meria still had not said anything as the father and daughter had finished talking, but as he watched Rumasak struggling to stand the angel could no longer hold his tongue. Suddenly Zeniths blade was placed back into its sheath once more, but once the blade was away the angels’ arm started to glow a bright white as it filled with Holy energy.

With his arm glowing Zenith slowly stepped forward towards Rumasak, as he did so the energy travelled down his arm until it only glowed around his palm. Although it was just his palm that was now glowing Zenith still held amazing power ready to be launched in a moments notice, for the power he had gathered in his hand was the Sacred Hand ability, which was taught to him by Lothlómendil herself. The angel wanted to blast Rumasak right there and then with a beam of pure holy energy, but he thought it best to try and hold back for now.

With the Sacred Hand ready to be used any moment Zenith parted his lips and said to Rumasak, “Listen demon! I have had enough of your offensive talk towards Umbra; it’s time that you were shown the true power of the Holy element. If you thought my Purge spell from a moment ago was devastating then you better be prepared for what is coming next!” He then raised his right hand towards Rumasak, steadying it with his left hand before going onto say, “If you have anything left to say, you better say it now before I send your twisted soul back to the Underworld whence it came!”

Rumasak looked at them both. He knew he could not get hit one more time. The two of them were overpowering him, well the angel was but who would have thought otherwise. Umbra attempted to plead with him on her innocence "It wasn't my fault Rumasak. How could it be? She was a human, and I know I am talking about her like this but come on. I had no part in it. Do you think I want to live my entire life not knowing what she looked like? Rumasak...Father, I never wanted to kill her. The Goddess of Life held her hour glass and saw it was time for her to die so she started mine." He looked at her and saw her pleading with him but he would not allow himself to be changed. He knew that she had killed Arella and for that Umbra had to die.

Zenith seemed to become angry at what was being said. The Archangel's hand filled with holy energy and he ran towards him and held his hand towards Rumasak. “Listen demon! I have had enough of your offensive talk towards Umbra; it’s time that you were shown the true power of the Holy element. If you thought my Purge spell from a moment ago was devastating then you better be prepared for what is coming next! If you have anything left to say, you better say it now before I send your twisted soul back to the Underworld whence it came!” He watched Zenith then looked over at Umbra. Her eyes were hardened again, almost impossible to see through. He gave an evil smile, the time from the purge spell to now had allowed him to regain a hold on his feeling. Suddenly something was pushed aside and he felt almost paralyzed for a moment.

He rested his eyes on Zenith before trying to step towards him, suddenly he fell to his knees and hit the ground. Supporting himself with his right arm he touched his neck where the mark was and looked at the both of them. He looked at Zenith, then at Umbra. His eyes no longer full of evil and hatred but of fear and urgency. As if somewhere deep down inside he was drowning and crying for help. "Drousn. The Black Blade..." he said finally standing to his full height. He was defiantly different in the way he stood now, his hand touching the mark on his neck delicately as if in fear it would shatter his entire being. "The lotus...the mark of the lotus by the curse causes the dark..." he said before he snapped his eyes shut. His hand fell from his neck and he looked up at them evil once more filling his eyes. "Heh...Don't think that you can defeat me so easily Angel.” He said then looked at Umbra. In an instant he stood behind her wrapping his arm around her neck holding his sword to her throat. “Lets see you use that attack now Angel. Dare you use it on your friend as well? I know that ability. It will destroy all demons. Including her.” He said.

Umbra watched as she held her arm to the side. Her hand began to grow with light as Zenith seemed to crack. “Listen demon! I have had enough of your offensive talk towards Umbra; it’s time that you were shown the true power of the Holy element. If you thought my Purge spell from a moment ago was devastating then you better be prepared for what is coming next!” he said steadying his hand. She was not certian wether she was going to blast Rumasak to protect Zenith or hit Zenith to save her father. “If you have anything left to say, you better say it now before I send your twisted soul back to the Underworld whence it came!” He said.

Suddenly Rumasak took a step towards Zenith as if he was about to attack him when he fell fowards. He hit the ground hard and she stepped towards Zenith her sunlight spell ready to fire. She wondered what was going on. He must have thought he was ready to fight. He looked up at both of them and she froze for a moment. His eyes were different than what they were before. She seen fear and helplessness in them. When their eyes locked she seen into them. She saw her father drowning in darkness. He touched his mark and got up. "Drousn. The Black Blade..."

She froze at the demonic word. She knew the meaning of it, a demonic word for help. He was calling her for help, and that was only backed up by the name Black Blade. They were an evil group of Raku followers determined to bring back all demons to his side. She knew of their exploits in many areas. They had even controlled her Uncle for a period of time before he was able to escape their clutches. But when he died he only fell to their necromantic powers and was controlled even dead. Rumor had it that they were responcible for the "Four Leaf Lotus" curse. The same one that plagued her father now. He held onto the mark, trying to show her what she already knew was there. "Zenith, tell me you saw what I just did" she said holding her sword at the ready. She wanted to know that she was not being fooled by false hopes. Zenith who only knew him as an enemy could tell if the look was true or not. She knew that it was but she wanted to be sure. "The lotus...the mark of the lotus by the curse causes the dark..." he began trying to explain the problem. But suddenly the evil once again took controll and he looked at them with an evil smile dropping his hand back to his side. "Heh...Don't think that you can defeat me so easily Angel.” he said then teleported behind Umbra. She struggled against his strength to try and get away but his hold was too great. “Lets see you use that attack now Angel. Dare you use it on your friend as well? I know that ability. It will destroy all demons. Including her." he said putting his sword at her throat. She tried to free herself but it was no use. She could not get free from his grasp and Zenith could not attack him. "Don't worry about me Zenith, fire! Please fire!" she said as she felt the cold steel from his sword touch her neck.

With the holy light focused in his hand Zenith kept his eyes locked on the pathetic form of Rumasak, although it was not long before the angel began to notice a difference in the demonic figure, something in his eyes. Continuing to look into the demons eyes Zeniths own gaze began to soften it was then that Rumasak parted his lips and said, "Drousn. The Black Blade..." Once saying this Rumasak seemed to place his hand delicately upon the mark on his neck as if it was some special kind of treasure that would be stolen if he did not look after it carefully. It was not very long after this that Zenith heard Umbra say, "Zenith, tell me you saw what I just did" However the only reply the woman got was a nod of Zeniths head, for some reason the angel could not find the words within him to talk.

Rumasak then went on to say, "The lotus...the mark of the lotus by the curse causes the dark..." right after which his eyes were quickly shut tight. As the demons eyes opened again Zenith noticed they were once again filled with dire evil, the evil that Zenith had charged the Sacred Hand ability for. With Rumasak now over taken by evil once more he said, "Heh...Don't think that you can defeat me so easily Angel.” Before Zenith could even say anything in reply the demonic being had used his Teleport spell to appear behind Umbra and grab the woman, Umbra tried to escape the grasp of her rather however his hold was to strong. Only once he had made sure he had Umbra held in place did Rumasak say, “Lets see you use that attack now Angel. Dare you use it on your friend as well? I know that ability. It will destroy all demons. Including her." His blade then slowly made its way to her neck before Umbra yelled out to Zenith, "Don't worry about me Zenith, fire! Please fire!" The angel had no idea what to do at that exact moment in time, but he knew he would have to think up a plan and fast.

With a sigh passing by his lips Zenith looked down to his hand that was glowing, he then cancelled the Sacred Hand before returning his gaze back to Rumasak and Umbra. The angel then said, “Are you really so weak Rumasak? Is the only way that you can win a battle to capture an innocent life? To use your own daughter as a shield?” Then fully spreading out his large white angel wings Zenith went on to say, “Your pathetic Rumasak! If you are a follower of Raku, then I am sure he will not be happy by what he sees, such a weak demon having to use pathetic tactics to get away alive. You are the worst demon I have even laid my eyes on, and I swear to you that if you even make one drop of blood fall from Umbra then this shall be your last day on the physical plains of Arda! Now make your choice, fight like a warrior, run like a weakling, or of course be sent to the depths of hell where your soul shall be under the command of Death.” Zenith just had to hope that what he was doing would pay off in the right way, if not then the angel had a back up plan that would hopefully strike Rumasak and end this.

Umbra fell silent as she watched and waited, after pleading for Zenith to fire she lowered her hands and waited. She would die here with her father. She watched as Zenith sighed, Please fire Zenith. Don't fear for my life. Let me die here and now by your hand in my fathers arms she thought. But Zenith spoke up. “Are you really so weak Rumasak? Is the only way that you can win a battle to capture an innocent life? To use your own daughter as a shield?” Zenith said as he spread out his wings. “Your pathetic Rumasak! If you are a follower of Raku, then I am sure he will not be happy by what he sees, such a weak demon having to use pathetic tactics to get away alive. You are the worst demon I have even laid my eyes on, and I swear to you that if you even make one drop of blood fall from Umbra then this shall be your last day on the physical plains of Arda! Now make your choice, fight like a warrior, run like a weakling, or of course be sent to the depths of hell where your soul shall be under the command of Death.” He said as he canceled out his spell and lowered his hand.

She could feel how pained Zenith must be, and angry as well. Rumasak would sacrifice her in order to stay alive. No. He would sacrifice one who could not be controlled by the curse so the curse could continue. She knew Rumasak would kill her before he would let her go. "Umbra...I have a plan. Please." her demon said in her mind. Umbra watched Zenith. She knew Rumasak would slit her throat before leaving. Rumasak's mind was one of a stratigist. He planned the whole thing out from the start. He was always two steps ahead of them. But with Mitzuki's help she and Zenith could be three. She listened to the demon half's plan and smiled as she dropped her eyes to the ground. She felt the demon's blade touch her skin as she sighed. "Do it."

Slowly as she could she moved her hands to her back and faced her palms towards Rumasak. She narrowed her eyes as her eyes began to glow to a silver aura. "Silmouan." she said as her hands glowed yellow and she blasted her sunbeam spell at Rumasak. Her eyes looked up glowing, a new being seemed to shine through as she turned her head to the side. "Rumasak. Your path is tainted with darkness, you even used your own daughter in your gains for your master. Your mind may be tactical but I will no longer stand by and watch this." she said. Her voice sounded different. Like Umbra's voice but more of a metalic tone and full of an angry light. She took a stance watching Rumasak out of her eye. "This ends here Rumasak. I will not allow you to harm Umbra or Zenith!"

Rumasak smiled as he watched Zenith forced to make a choice. He had planned this out the entire time. The only thing he did not think about was the break through of control. But it gave him the edge he needed to catch Umbra off guard. He smiled as Zenith sighed, , “Are you really so weak Rumasak? Is the only way that you can win a battle to capture an innocent life? To use your own daughter as a shield?” Rumasak only gave a laugh as he put the blade closer to Umbra's throat. "My dear angel, what do you take me for? A warrior does not win by strength alone. But by strategy, the power of being two steps ahead of your opponents. And I have and always been two steps ahead of you and your pathetic Jai Nuna friend here" he said. “Your pathetic Rumasak! If you are a follower of Raku, then I am sure he will not be happy by what he sees, such a weak demon having to use pathetic tactics to get away alive. You are the worst demon I have even laid my eyes on, and I swear to you that if you even make one drop of blood fall from Umbra then this shall be your last day on the physical plains of Arda! Now make your choice, fight like a warrior, run like a weakling, or of course be sent to the depths of hell where your soul shall be under the command of Death.” Rumasak shook his head pulling Umbra closer to him not watching that her hands had moved from her side to her back. "Zenth, Zenith, Zenith. You are the truely pathetic one. Do you not think that I was planning all along? As I lay gasping for air did you not consider that I was analyzing your powers? That I knew you were a Divine Protector? Did any of this go through your head as you stood their watching me and calling out threats that have no meanings? Raku is pleased with me for I have thought it all out. Every move you make will only cause her demise and my escape. There is nothing you can do Zenith that I have not planned out." he said getting ready to slice Umbra's throat. "I know your obsession with protecting her, you said so yourself. But since you are so consirned about protecting her. I will allow you to have a final word of appologies before I end her miserable... Rumasaks sentence was cut short as he flew backwards as Umbra unleashed a sunbeam attack on him. His sword hit the ground noisily as he hit the ground and slid. He watched as Umbra turned and looked at him out of the corner of her eye. Her eyes glowed with an aura that he had never seen before. Her entire being seemed to have changed.

He listened to her as she watched him, obviously on guard to any attack he might throw at Zenith or her. "Rumasak. Your path is tainted with darkness, you even used your own daughter in your gains for your master. Your mind may be tactical but I will no longer stand by and watch this." she said as he felt another pulse. His eyes widdened as he listened. "NO! YOU CAN'T...ITS NOT POSSIBLE!" he shouted at her as he grabbed his sword. But knowing now he had underestimated the duo. He knew about Zenith, but right now the true threat was overlooked. Umbra had found out how to tap into her demon persona and become her. In fact, her demon had been watching them all. A silent scout in the battlefeilds, unknowingly to those in the ring who could see each mistake. And now that Umbra had allowed her to surface the true threat awaited. Umbra nor her demon could even imagine the abilities they possessed when the two worked as one. "This ends here Rumasak. I will not allow you to harm Umbra or Zenith!" she said. He knew that this was the pulse. The demon had awakened and worst of all, it was on Umbra's side. He got up and smiled. "You have one this round Protectors of Life and Light, but the next round will be different. I guess I did underestimate you all. But not again. Fairwell young ones. Till we meet again." and with those words Rumasak disappeared, teleporting to the edge of his visions.

He looked at himself in the reflections of his face. "You may have broken through and gave them needed information. But that will not save her Rumasak. She will share your brothers fate. That you can be certian of." he said and checked his abdomen. Two third degree wounds were on his chest and his shirt was singed through, almost completely fried. "Your butting in has ended Rumasak. I rule your body now." he said and ran off.

Zenith was not sure exactly what he should now do, Umbra was being held captive and Rumasak was acting even cockier than before. It was not long before the demon spoke to the angel with a rather long speech as he said, "Zenith, Zenith, Zenith. You are the truly pathetic one. Do you not think that I was planning all along? As I lay gasping for air did you not consider that I was analysing your powers? That I knew you were a Divine Protector? Did any of this go through your head as you stood their watching me and calling out threats that have no meanings? Raku is pleased with me for I have thought it all out. Every move you make will only cause her demise and my escape. There is nothing you can do Zenith that I have not planned out. I know your obsession with protecting her, you said so yourself. But since you are so concerned about protecting her. I will allow you to have a final word of apologies before I end her miserable...” However he was suddenly cut off during his speech as Umbra has somehow managed to cast one of her most powerful spells.

The dire force of the spell Sun Beam blasted into Rumasak and Umbra had managed to get her self free from his grasp. It was at that very moment that the Archangel of Life removed Salvations Judgement once more; he was about to rip the blade deep into the heart of Rumasak when he heard Umbra say, "Rumasak. Your path is tainted with darkness; you even used your own daughter in your gains for your master. Your mind may be tactical but I will no longer stand by and watch this." Thought there was something different in her voice, and her eyes for that matter. It was as if Umbra had become a totally new being that Zenith did not ever know about. Rumasak also seemed to be in shock at this change as Umbra continued to speak with the words, "This ends here Rumasak. I will not allow you to harm Umbra or Zenith!" Hearing this Zenith nodded and stepped forward so that he was right next to Umbra, it looked as though the end of Rumasak was at hand.

However there was another surprise in store for both Umbra and Zenith as Rumasak once again raised himself back to his feet and said, "You have one this round Protectors of Life and Light, but the next round will be different. I guess I did underestimate you all. But not again. Fairwell young ones. Till we meet again." Zenith was ready to stop the demon but before he had a chance to do so Rumasak had teleported off into the distance and clearly out of range of a clear attack. Letting a sigh pass by his lips the angel turned towards Umbra and said, “There is no need to go after him, we can get him anytime. But Umbra, I would like to know what has caused this change within you? Was it something that Rumasak said or does it dwell deeper than that?” The angel then waited on the woman’s reply hoping to know what exactly had happened only moments before.

((OOC: Sorry its not better ))

Mitzuki turned from the stance and faced Rumasak. Her eyes glowed eerily as she narrowed them watching him get up. She put her left foot behind her and dropped her hand to the dagger Umbra held at her waist. She saw Zenith go to stand next to her and then she looked back to Rumasak. The demon got up to his feet and finally spoke to them, You have one this round Protectors of Life and Light, but the next round will be different. I guess I did underestimate you all. But not again. Fairwell young ones. Till we meet again." he said.

Mitzuki was about to run and attack but Rumasak teleported away. She sighed in frustration. "Sorry Umbra...I thought I could get him, I am sorry." Mitzuki said. Umbra did not seem to be upset though, "Thats all right. Besides, we are not hurt and Zenith is safe. I would not consider today to be a terrible one. Besides. We can get him next time. We just need to find the info we need." she said comforting her demon.

Mitzuki sighed again wondering what would happen on their next meeting with Rumasak. Zenith turned to her and spoke, “There is no need to go after him, we can get him anytime. But Umbra, I would like to know what has caused this change within you? Was it something that Rumasak said or does it dwell deeper than that?” Mitzuki looked at him, "Why don't you explain it. I am kinda tired and well...I think you would do it better." Umbra said. Mitzuki turned to Zenith and leaned against the tree. "As you already know Zenith, Umbra is a half demon. There are two types of half demons; those who have their personas fused, similar to Half-elves. And then there are those whose personas are not fused. Many have a dominant persona, for us, its the human whom you know as Umbra." she said then stood up and gave a small bow. "But I have to say, it is an honor to finally meet you Zenith. I am Umbra's demon. My name is Mitzuki."she said then straightened and began explaining what had happened. "When Umbra was born I swore myself to protect her, and all she calles an ally, including you Zenith. But don't worry, I never take control without permission from Umbra, a promise I made that I shant break." she said as she watched Zenith wondering how he would take the information.

Still looking towards this new Umbra the Archangel waited for her reply, however he did not have to wait long as she went on to say, "As you already know Zenith, Umbra is a half demon. There are two types of half demons; those who have their personas fused, similar to Half-elves. And then there are those whose personas are not fused. Many have a dominant persona, for us, its the human whom you know as Umbra." She then gave a small bow towards Zenith before continuing on by saying, "But I have to say, it is an honour to finally meet you Zenith. I am Umbra's demon. My name is Mitzuki." Once hearing this Zenith thought back to the first day he had met Umbra, the day that both Umbra and Himself fought against each other.

On that day Zenith had won the battle, but spared Umbra’s life since he could see the light within her, and within that light must have laid this woman known as Mitzuki, the other side of Umbra. A small smile spread along the lips of the angel as Mitzuki once again continued to talk by saying, "When Umbra was born I swore myself to protect her, and all she calls an ally, including you Zenith. But don't worry, I never take control without permission from Umbra, a promise I made that I shant break." Moments after she had finished speaking Zenith nodded to Mitzuki and raised his right hand up to his face in order to brush some stray hair out of his eyes and clear his vision.

Zenith slowly parted his lips and then spoke to Mitzuki with the words, “Well Mitzuki, I must say it is nice to finally meet you. Since the first day I met Umbra I knew there was something else deep within her and I am glad to finally meet that other person. Yes you may be a demon, but fear not about me attacking you or anything like that as I have seen today that you truly value the friendships Umbra holds with others, so you can consider me as your friend as well as Umbra’s, from now I swear to protect the both of you with my life as I see you both as close friends of mine.” With his words finished the angel continued to smile and hoped this Mitzuki would know he was speaking the truth.

The demon persona watched Zenith wondering if the Archangel believed her but the duo did not have to wait long for an answer. "Well,Mitzuki I must say it is nice to finally meet you. Since the first day I met Umbra I knew there was something else deep within her and I am glad to finally meet that other person. Yes you may be a demon, but fear not about me attacking you or anything like that as I have seen today that you truly value the friendships Umbra holds with others so you can consider me as your friend as well as Umbra's, from now on I swear to protect the both of you with my life as I see you both as close friends of mine" Zenith replied. Mitzuki could feel Umbra's tired smile and she herself had to smile at his words. But Mitzuki felt Umbra's sadness behind the smile.

Th demon sighed, she knew what Umbra was feeling. How pained she was from the fight. The injuries; both physicl nd emotional, were tremendous. They lost a father, the family was no longer a family. "I think I can go ahead now, I feel better." Umbra said. Mitzuki did not argue even though she knew Umbra was not that ready, but maybe Zenith could help in a way she could not. "Well, it looks like Rumasak fled for now, and she says that she can take over so I'll be heading. See you around Zenith." the demon said and gave a nod t Zenith. Almost instantly the demons aura vanished and Umbra's eyes returned to their normal shade of grey.

Umbra gave a meek smile, "Sorry if I worried you, I just didn't want you to get hurt." she said then leaned against the tree again. "I guess I really am alone now." she said in a low voice a small tear tried to form in her eye.

Once Zenith had spoken he could see a smile come over the demon form of Umbra known as Mitzuki. It was after the smile that Zenith looked up towards the sky for a few moments as he thought to himself, “In a way, I am like Umbra in the sense that I too have lost my family, but not that Alba is also gone from this world I really am all alone. All I have left is my friends, and of course Esgalrin. With luck Esgalrin and I shall bring forth a new chapter in the Meria family name, for now though I must make sure my friend is ok.” He then looked back down towards the form of Mitzuki, a smile still spread across his lips although the smile was clearly filled with far more sadness than before hand.

It was not long before Mitzuki spoke to the angel with the words, "Well, it looks like Rumasak fled for now, and she says that she can take over so I'll be heading. See you around Zenith." Zenith gave a nod towards the demonic form of Umbra as her aura soon vanished from sight. Now with the normal Umbra back Zenith heard her say through a small smile, "Sorry if I worried you, I just didn't want you to get hurt." The woman then leaned against the tree near her once more before continuing on to say, "I guess I really am alone now." Hearing this Zenith instantly knew that he had to make Umbra try and forget about her father somehow, it would be difficult but the Archangel would have to at least try.

Slowly walking over towards Umbra Zenith tried to form the right words to say to her, once he had gotten close enough to her the angel gently placed his right hand onto the shoulder of Umbra before he said, “Umbra, you were the one that told me awhile ago that I would never be alone as long as I had people that cared for me by my side. Well the same goes for you, you shall never be alone. Your friends shall always be there for you; I shall always be there for you Umbra. For as long as I live I can promise you that you shall forever have someone close to you.” Zenith then smiled as he looked into the eyes of Umbra hoping that his friend would find a little bit of happiness again.

Umbra looked off towards the trees that Rumasak had extended his teleportation to. She sighed as she watched what was not there, trying to figure out what this pain in her heart was, and what was causing it. The birds singing became a drone in her ears and she zoned out on everything, even Zenith seemed to disappear from her line of view. ‘Why is this happening? What is this pain in my heart?’ she thought as she watched the endless void of trees. The sound of birds turned from a low drone to a barely audible murmur and she ignored it completely as the heartbreak feeling continued.

She had been zoned out so much that she failed to notice Zenith walk over to her. Her tears had made a single wet line down her face, but she failed to notice or do anything about it. Suddenly she felt a hand on her shoulder. She jumped at the touch and turned to find Zenith smiling at her. “Umbra, you were the one that told me awhile ago that I would never be alone as long as I had people that cared for me by my side. Well the same goes for you, you shall never be alone. Your friends shall always be there for you; I shall always be there for you Umbra. For as long as I live I can promise you that you shall forever have someone close to you.” Her angelic friend said.

She did not know what to say, they locked eyes for a moment and if she was not as pained as she was right then she would have hit him for saying it. But if she was not in pain right then he probably would not have needed to say it. She looked down trying to form the right words to say, she wanted to tell him that ‘an angel would not understand,’ or ‘don’t think you can solve this Zenith’ but she pushed those thoughts aside and tried to figure out how to explain what was going on to him so he could understand. She knew that he had lost his family as well, but he had Esgalrin right now as well. She sighed then looked up at her friend.

Who would have thought that a year ago she and him had fought and he would spare her life. If you had told her that a decade ago and she would have laughed and said that you were crazy, if you said that she and him would be allies, she might have handed you over to the guard to get some medical attention. Years ago she would have killed an angel on sight. But now she did not mind being around them as much. “Zenith.” She said and finally met his eyes once again. “Zenith, it’s not as simple as saying that you would be there.” she began. She sighed again; Umbra was never really good in expressing how she felt. Most of the time she just ignored them but this feeling in her heart was new, she had never...No wait she had, A decade ago when she had first began to hate angels. What had Dagger called it? Heart break? Well it still hurt even now. “I-I was never really good with this express your feelings thing. I just- I just can’t take much more of it anymore Zenith. I cannot take loosing people anymore.” She finally said.

With the wind passing through his hair as the birds continuing to chirp in the trees Zenith stayed where he was so that Umbra knew he would be there for him. Soon the angel heard her say, “Zenith. Zenith, it’s not as simple as saying that you would be there. I-I was never really good with this express your feelings thing. I just- I just can’t take much more of it anymore Zenith. I cannot take loosing people anymore.” The angel nodded once hearing this, he to had felt the very same way not that long ago and if there was anything that he could do to help his friend then he would do it. However Zenith did not know exactly what he could say to make things better, sure he had been through this himself but that was during his childhood so Zenith never really had a strong memory of his parents and all the fresh memories he had of his brother were, shall we say, rather chaotic.

Placing his hands back down at his sides Zenith turned to where Rumasak had run off. It was then that Zenith wished he had stopped the demon so that Umbra could have told him exactly how she felt. As he looked down the path the demon had teleported down Zenith started to remember Alba, his older brother. The form of the Chaos Phoenix appeared before Zenith, looking him dead in the eye. Albas form them softly said, “Zenith, do not worry about my death brother. You saved me from myself, from the demon that lay within me. Now my true soul is free to travel the spirit world of Arda as I please, but you my brother have work to do. Save Rumasak, go with Umbra and try to break the curse!” Then before Zenith could reply to Alba his form vanished from sight.

Taking in the words said by his brother Zenith turned once more to face Umbra. He then curled one of his hands into a fist and placed it into his other hand before saying, “Umbra! Now is not the time to think of this ok? If you do not wish to lose anyone else then we will just have to make sure you don’t. I suggest we get a move on if you want to break the curse holding your father. If breaking the curse kills him, then I can bring him back. What do you say Umbra? Are going to just stand here sobbing about the loss of your father? Or are you going to get up and do something about it! To break the curse holding him once and for all!” The look in the eyes of Zenith was one Umbra would have seen before, it was the look of pure determination that he had all that time ago when Umbra and Zenith battled each other. If she wanted to save her father from whatever was making him evil then Zenith would be by her side!

Umbra stood still looking at the ground. She felt angry that she was so upset and Zenith was figuring it all out. He did not know ALL about her past but he was figuring this part out. But how long would it be till he knew how she really felt? She gave a frustrated sigh and kicked a rock as the silence between them grew longer by the second. She turned back to her spot on the ground as she let her thoughts flood her mind, There is no possible way that Zenith can know everything about how I feel; not about my father, this curse, loosing everyone, or even about him. she thought. There had to be some way that they could get Rumasak back. But she had no clue how.

Just then Zenith closed the silence gap, he struck his hand with his fist, “Umbra! Now is not the time to think of this ok? If you do not wish to lose anyone else then we will just have to make sure you don’t. I suggest we get a move on if you want to break the curse holding your father. If breaking the curse kills him, then I can bring him back. What do you say Umbra? Are going to just stand here sobbing about the loss of your father? Or are you going to get up and do something about it! To break the curse holding him once and for all!” he said. She met his eyes, his was one full of determination and strength. She had seen them once before when he first met. But also on another. A half demon elf named Zenaku, he was one who never left her side during fights, they were inseperable as children and also strong rivals.

His words fummed her even more, he did not even get it. This curse was more than that; every being with moon demon blood, even herself, was at risk for being taken by this curse. And she only knew how to break it in one person, not that he would allow himself to be attoned right now. She just had to figure out something and Zenith really was not helping at all. "Zenith it is not just a matter of going after him, even if we were able to change him back to the way he was it would not matter. The curse would just kill him and the Black blades will just resurre..." Umbra suddenly froze in mid-sentence and looked away, "Resurrect him. Zenith I think you just gave me an idea. There have only been two beings with moon demon blood who have bypassed the curse. One was me, because I got attoned my link to the curse was severed. But there was another demon. About a century ago my uncle, Khaos, joined the black blades. They thought he would soon be under the curse. And he would have, but he joined to find a way to end it. There he learned how to bypass the curse himself, but because he had become unaffected by it the curse killed him. Thats why Rumasak wanted to kill me, because I could not be taken by its power. I have to find Khaos, he is the only person who could save Rumasak, I don't know enough about the curse myself. Only what I have heard and read." she said. And to get to Khaos she would have to go to the Underworld.

Zenith could see the eyes of Umbra look towards his own, it was not very long before the woman spoke by saying, "Zenith it is not just a matter of going after him, even if we were able to change him back to the way he was it would not matter. The curse would just kill him and the Black blades will just resurre..." it was right after this that her words suddenly stopped mid sentence, the angel slowly raised one of his eyebrows before Umbra continued on with what she had been saying before, "Resurrect him. Zenith I think you just gave me an idea. There have only been two beings with moon demon blood who have bypassed the curse. One was me, because I got attoned my link to the curse was severed. But there was another demon. About a century ago my uncle, Khaos, joined the black blades. They thought he would soon be under the curse. And he would have, but he joined to find a way to end it. There he learned how to bypass the curse himself, but because he had become unaffected by it the curse killed him. That’s why Rumasak wanted to kill me, because I could not be taken by its power. I have to find Khaos, he is the only person who could save Rumasak, I don't know enough about the curse myself. Only what I have heard and read." So it seemed that there really was hope to save Rumasak, sure it was a slim chance but it was a lead none the less.

The Archangel smiled towards Umbra as he heard her say this; he then nodded and pointed his hand out to his left. Within seconds a large shimmering white door way appeared before both Zenith and Umbra. Parting his lips once more the angel then said, “Well then Umbra, now that we have a lead to follow shall we get a start on our journey? The portal you see to my side leads to the gates of the Underworld, before we pass through I advise you that you are fully prepared since we will most likely have to do battle against the Cerberus in order to obtain access into the world of the damned as some call it.” Zenith then looked towards the Portal again and thought to himself, “Yes I may be located in the Underworld since I am an angel, but that might prove useful as the demons will come after me and allow Umbra a free passage to get to her Uncle. As long as I can help her in anyway I will be happy!” With this thought still fresh in his mind the white winged angel turned back to face Umbra, with luck she would be willing to take his help for her upcoming journey.

As Zenith waited for a reply from Umbra he began to think of the last time he had been in the Underworld, a large group of demons had chained him up and almost killed him. However the Archangel of Life had managed to get away and also kill most of the demons that had attempted to take his life, it was after that day that Zenith knew that followers of Raku would lie about anything in order to escape with their lives, infact the Raku followers in the eyes of Zenith were worse than those whom followed the Goddess of Chaos. At those that followed Chaos were not all pure evil, some just had a different view on the world but where still good at heart but those who spent their lives following the teachings of that pathetic fool Raku should all be taken down swiftly. He then out a small sigh and his thoughts returned back to the matter at hand, he wanted to help Rumasak break the curse but in truth it was not for Rumasak that Zenith was doing it for, no, he was doing it in order to help one of his closest friends.

Umbra noticed that Zenith had raised an eyebrow when she froze in mid sentence. She ignored his surprise and began to think of a plan, she would be going at this alone...Meaning she would be facing the Cerberus alone, dang this would be an interesting fight. The last time she barely escaped the Cerberus with her life, she figured that this time she would be killed, at least she would still end up in the same spot. Well, then Zenith. I guess this is good-bye for now. Hope I will see you again someday soon. she thought then turned to Zenith once more.

She was about to bid farewell to Zenith when he streached out his hand to the side and held out his hand, suddenly an orb of light appeared and streached into a portal, he turned to her once more and smiled. “Well then Umbra, now that we have a lead to follow shall we get a start on our journey? The portal you see to my side leads to the gates of the Underworld, before we pass through I advise you that you are fully prepared since we will most likely have to do battle against the Cerberus in order to obtain access into the world of the damned as some call it.” he said smiling at her. She blinked a few times amazed that Zenith would be going with her. She opened her mouth to protest. He would be putting his life in danger and if he got killed then Esgalrin would revive him and kill them both for dying in the Underworld. But she realized there would be no reasoning with Zenith, she knew by now that once he set his mind to a task there was no getting him out of it. She shook her head and smiled, "Well, I know by now not to try and talk you out of something Zenith. Just don't die. Esgalrin will revive you and kill us both for that." she said with a chuckle.

She checked her belt, her dagger and chakram was in its place. Her sword adn sheild were on her back underneath her silver cloak. Anything else, well...She was good enough. She did not think she would need her bow and quiver. Most likely they would help not hinder the evil and undead beings in the underworld. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath and let it out slowly, preparing herself for this venture. She opened her eyes and looked at Zenith, Esgalrin, I hope that you know how lucky you are to have Zenith as your husband. He is truely the pick of the litter, don't let him go easily. she thought then nodded to Zenith. "Well, lets go save my father. If he can fight the curse for a few seconds then I think that I can go and end it forever." she said then walked through the portal he had made. Maybe I really am not alone. Zenith has always helped me out. I wonder...if I could do that much for him one day. she thought as she stepped through the portal he made.

Zenith Meria kept his eyes locked onto Umbra, it looked as though she was going to ask the angel not to come but before long he saw Umbra shake her head before saying, "Well, I know by now not to try and talk you out of something Zenith. Just don't die. Esgalrin will revive you and kill us both for that." Hearing this made Zenith laugh slightly, although in truth Umbra was right Esgalrin would bring them both back if they died only to kill them again for putting her through so much worry, but Zenith did not intend on letting his life be taken on this day or Umbra’s for that matter. As a Divine Protector Zeniths job was to help others, and that was just what he was doing! He was helping out one of his best friends in Arda to get her Father back.

Umbra then started to check her equipment to make sure she had everything so Zenith did the same; he had all of his armour and magical rings and bangles. His blade rested in its sheath by his side while his Shield was tightly strapped onto his left arm and ready for immediate use whenever needed. The angel also had all of his spells within his mind ready to be cast at the right points. It was not long before the Archangel of Life then heard the voice of Umbra again as she said, "Well, lets go save my father. If he can fight the curse for a few seconds then I think that I can go and end it forever." He nodded to his friend before she headed through the Portal the angel had created. Once Umbra was through the Portal Zenith turned to his Fairy, Ashe, before saying, “Ashe, go and inform Telsor and Keal to come to the gates of the Underworld as quick as they can ok? We will need their help against the Cerberus. I am counting on you Ashe!” The fairy then nodded before taking off into the sky towards the Temple of Life.

The angel then tied his hair back before placing his Helm neatly on his head once more, in doing so the angels’ armour sealed together leaving no gaps what so ever. Slowly he then drew forth Salvations Judgement and cast his Holy Hammer spell onto it so that the blade was infused with the powers of Light. Before walking through the Portal Zenith said, “Esgalrin, I promise you that I shall return, I will not die on this day on this day my love, I will return to you!” The angel then looked down towards his wedding ring with a soft smile before stepping forward and entering the portal, which led to one of the most evil places known to man, the Underworld!

With both Umbra and Zenith now through the portal and on their way to the Underworld the Portal entrance at the Taurai Woods closed up. The pair would have a tough journey ahead of them, but if they were to work as a team then there was nothing Zenith and Umbra could not accomplish! The angel just hoped that Ashe would get to Telsor and Keal in time so that they Cerberus would not cause as much trouble to them.