Universal War

By LaDae Roberson

In a world of new changes The land of Kirkoff divided by two nations The City and The Kingdom are at constant odds with each other. Nearly 400 years have passed since The Human-dragon War, or The Second Great War, The Zamprican Empire amassed an army to take over and conquer the world. One man who lost his family to this empire forges an army and goes to war with them.

"You're either go'in to hate me or you're go'in to like me." - Tony Montana

• Language: English
• Publisher: BooxAi
• Release date: Nov 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9789655786514

Book preview

CHAPTER 1: LOVE AND REVENGE

Five months later, Don wakes up in the process of his funeral. Then he rises up from his casket. The people freaked out as many ran away, but one person says, I'm alive?! But how, my throat... He checks his throat and feels no scars. Then he turns to the guy and asks, Where's my family? The man shows him to the grave of his family, and Don falls to his knees and lets out a shout. Then he speaks, This can't be real. Please be a bad dream. Why? Why is this happening? I will avenge you if it's the last thing I do. The world darkens around him, and he sees a light in the form of a person. What is this? he asks. You are neither dead nor alive but banished from the realm of the living. Who are you? I was once alive like you, had a family like you, but Alfheim took them away. You and I share a common goal. The Empire allied with my enemy, and the orcs allied with yours. Then I can die in peace with my family? We have to kill the one who cursed us. I thought the orcs were trying to get the wraith for themselves. Is that so? They don't know how the power works. I'm going to need help, and who better to ask than the man who was in The Empire. Who's that? My cousin, let's go. The wraith world vanishes as Don walks off. Three days later, Don arrives in a city named Bricksburg and gets out of the airport. He walks down the streets. After a few blocks, he sees some thieves running away as a cop chases them. Don trips the thieves and asks, Hey officer, do you know where Tony Monana is? The cop responds in a suspicious tone, For what? To get help from. Why would he want to see you? I'm his cousin, Don Montana. Really?! Nice to meet you. I'm Rex Maximillius. Follow me. But what about these... oh, they're gone... sorry. Don't worry about it. They already lost the things they stole. Another squad is waiting for them. Come. Rex leads Don to a mansion down the incline from the city. He's normally there. If not, just wait. He's probably solving crimes. Thanks. Of course, take care. Don walks to the mansion and rings the doorbell. Then a guy opens the door and asks, Who are you? I'm Don... Montana. Hey Tony, it's for you, a relative of yours! Soon a guy with dirty blond hair, big muscles, and hazel eyes steps out and says, I'm Tony, and you are? Don. Ah, so you're his cousin. Tony, he's your cousin? Then the henchman gets shot in the head. Tony and Don turn toward the hill, seeing assassins in the distance. One of the assassins shouts, You missed, you fool!! No, I got him. That's not Tony; this is! He shows a picture of Tony. Then Tony says, Oh no, I got this. Tony jumps high into the air and vanishes, then comes down smashing one of the assassins with his war hammer and whacks the other toward a building. Tony runs back to the mansion from three miles in 20 seconds. Wow! You're impressive! Don, I know, but the sad thing is this city has more criminals than others. That's why Mayor Ryan made me the protector of it! Do you want to help me with something? What is it? Come. Tony leads Don to the basement and says, I have a portal built. Ten years ago, I had a time machine, but now it's gone, and I plan to make another. But there's not enough materials to do so, so I'll wait till later. I want you to test my portal! O-ok, I'll see if it works. Then Tony turns it on, and Don walks through it and appears in a new place in a village that's in the forest. Don walks to a man and asks, Where am I? You're in the Ninja Village in the Kingdom. "So, it worked. Well, I need to get going. He turns and sees the portal is gone. Great, now I'm trapped here. How does this place work? Are you lost? Yes. Well, then, follow me. They walk to an open field, and the man says as he picks up a leaf, I'm Kimshiko Yaku. What's your name, and where are you from? I'm Don Montana, and I'm from the City. So, you're not a ninja at all. Yep. Hmm… how about I teach you some ninjutsu? Really, but I'm a city person. Anyone can learn spells and ninjutsu as long as they're willing to learn it. Ok, I'll kill some time with it. Alright. From this point on, you will call me Sensei, ok? Alright. First, we must see if you fall under a category of jutsu. Wait, jutsu? Yeah, jutsu. It's what we ninja have: an element chart, Fire, Lightning, Water, Earth, and Wind. Each person has a chakra type born in us, here. He hands Don a paper. A paper? It's a chakra-infused paper. How it works is it picks up your chakra nature and responds to it. If it burns, you have fire type; if it splits, you have wind; if it wrinkles, you have lightning; if it turns to dirt and crumbles away, you have earth; and if it becomes wet, you have water style. Try to focus all your chakra onto it. So, what exactly is chakra? That will be taught later; for now, focus your energy on the paper. Don puts his energy onto the paper, but nothing happens. (sigh) It's pointless. I'm not a kingdom person; it won't happen. Are you sure? take a look. Don looks at the paper and sees it has burned in half, soon being engulfed in flames. Don exclaims, I-I-I have fire! Lucky for you, that's also my style, but I must ask permission to properly train you and get a team formed. From whom? From our 27th Hokage."

CHAPTER 2: NINJA TRAINING

As Don and Kimshiko walk through the village with their buildings made from stone, some people occupy food stalls as people get food from them. They stop by a ramen shop, and Kimshiko spoke to a ninja with a green vest and brown hair, Hey Iruka. Hey Kimshiko, who is he? This is Don. Don responds, Hi. Your clothes, no doubt you’re from the City, how’d you like it here in the Kingdom? I can’t really say much. I just got here, and my cousin’s portal closed on me. I’ve only seen your village so far. I see. Well, I’m sure you’ll love it here, despite us being called the Kingdom, we still have the basic necessities you city folks have. How so? I heard you Kingdom people are barbaric. Well, I can’t blame the City for their stories. However, we are just as barbaric as they are. One kingdom cannot define the whole Kingdom. So, if you don’t mind me asking, what chakra nature are you? Fire. Ah, fire, Kimshiko; you may actually have a student. Kimshiko responds, Indeed, actually right now we’re about to head to the Hokage’s mansion. Don’t let me hold you up then. Take care, guys. You too. They head off as Iruka goes back to eating his ramen. Don, when we get to the mansion, let me do the talking. Alright, I’m not really quite sure how I would speak to your leader anyhow. They hear a man speak, Who’s that with you Kimshiko? It’s Don, Haruki. Haruki jumps down from the roof of a building, landing in front of them. So, Don, huh, I’m Haruki Makoto... Haruki has white hair that spikes up and has his headband covering his left eye with a book in his hand as he continues, He doesn’t look like he’s from here. Don responds, Well… I’m not, because of my cousin’s portal I’m here. Well, then, that would explain a lot. See ya. He vanished. What was that?! Kimshiko answers, That was a clone. A clone? Yes, with another name; substitution jutsu. We use them to trick enemies. If it’s properly used, they can also help out in fights as an extra man. Come, we must see the Hokage soon. The two continue to the mansion, walking up the steps. After fifty steps, they arrive at the mansion and enter the building, then walk up its steps to the third floor. Kimshiko leads him to a room, opening it. Don sees two women in the office; one of them has blond hair, green eyes, and is sitting at her desk, while the other has black hair and is holding papers. The woman with the papers speaks, So, you’re Don. How do you know me? The other woman answers, Haruki told us you were coming. Haruki’s voice speaks, I hope I made a good introduction for you. Don turns and sees Haruki sitting on the roof by the window reading his book. The woman sitting at her desk speaks, I’m Yukira; this is Momoko. Kimshiko asks, Lady Yukira, can I have Don as my student? He looks like he could be of use. Sure, but you’ll need two more students to attend missions. I’ll find more students; for now, let’s train Don. They leave the mansion, and Kimshiko speaks, I know where to get two more students. Where? At the Ninja Academy, where you need to go. Don has gone to the academy to get training in the use of ninjutsu. After a year of training and education, the Genin exams were open, and Don made some friends with some kids, one of them being Yamasu, a boy with black hair, and another one, Kinata, a girl with pink hair. As the three wait in the locker room, Yamasu exclaims, I hope we win and become Genin! Kinata responds, Me too, but I have a feeling we will. If that’s the case, I’ll never doubt you if we all win. Don speaks, So, the ranking of Ninjas is Genin, Chunin, and Jonin. Sedona responds, Yes, but there are others but uncommon. My dad told me the other ranks are Onmitsu, Tokujonin, Saijonin, Tenjonin, and Gokujonin. Yamasu speaks, That’s a lot. Yes, but technically speaking, we still use Onmitsu and Tenjonin. Don adds, So, they took off some of them. Tenjonin had a name change to Kage, and it’s been many centuries since we even had a Gokujonin, so they took that off and made all the Jonins as one class. Yamasu puts his hands on his head, adding, Ugh, my head hurts. They hear Yamasu’s name called, and Don speaks, Good luck Yamasu. Thanks! He steps out as Don and Sesona wait to get called up. So, Don; how are you adjusting to our home? To be honest, I’m quite surprised with how the living is. Growing up, I was taught you kingdom people are savages, no clean water, bloodshed all the time, lack of basic needs really. Well, we have all that, unfortunately, the bloodshed thing is true. Some kingdoms like to war and expand their territory. Have you ever heard of The Empire? Heard of them, they ruined my life. Then you know how it is like for the others, Zamprican decided to control every country from city to city, from island to island, and kingdom to kingdom. Zamprican? It’s the kingdom The Empire comes from far to the North. Do they even have the numbers to do that? They have taken some of them; others are fighting but… are struggling… these kingdoms don’t have guns, tanks, or bombs, so they lose, and whenever The Empire wins, they either force people into the army or they join them to help provide for their families. How do you even know all this? I hear the Jonin talk about it. They don’t wish to be found by them, so we remain hidden. But you have ninjutsu… But they have numbers, even if all the ninjas join against them, they still will have numbers against us, not to mention a handful of their generals are inhumanly powerful. The Empire must be stopped at all costs. If you plan on fighting them, you’ll need an army of superhumans; not even the city government could beat them when they first rose to power, and that was… a different time. Sesona was called up, then she spoke, Well, it’s my turn. See you on the other side. She walks off, and Don’s wraith appears, It seems our little kunoichi had a great deal of knowledge on our enemy. The Empire is a lot worse than I had imagined. She provides a point; normal people won’t beat The Empire. When we get back to the City, you need to find a way to get people; we need to win this war. It’s not a war, it's just absolute domination. "It’s a war. People are too afraid to call it as such, but once you get your army, it will be a war. What exactly is your story, why do you hate The Empire as much as me? I don’t hate The Empire as much as you, but the orcs, a select few really, they butchered my family as I watched, gutted my son, hung my wife. The Dark Lord kept me alive and enslaved me, I escaped but beyond that I don’t remember, not even my name. You must have been dead for a while then. That is not important, what is important is the fall of those two empires. What benefits do I get with you as my wraith? I’m to be your wraith…? Regardless, with me, you have super strength, super speed, a second opinion in battle plans, and immortality. Really?! You’re already dead and yet alive. Without me, you’ll die. I see. Until Tony finds you, try to play nice with these ninjas, it’s time to go out. Don's name gets called up, then the wraith vanishes. As Don stands up and heads to the door, when he opens it, he sees an arena field big as a football field with walls reaching 30 feet, then runs to the center where a man and a boy are waiting. The boy has black long hair and wears a green jumpsuit. The Jonin spoke, I’ll be your coach of this match. Ok, Don Montana, you’re versus Amurochimaru Kinski. Ready? Yeah. Amurochimaru adds, Let’s get this over with! Fight! The Jonin vanishes, then Don uses quick hand signs and shouts, Fireball jutsu! Amurochimaru evades, then counters, Water style: Water dragon jutsu!" Then Don dodged it and thought to himself, With water style, he has an advantage against me. After paying close attention to Amurochimaru’s signs, he did the same and spoke, Water style: Water dragon jutsu. A water dragon came out, then Amurochimaru counters with a water wall canceling the jutsus. As they explode, Amurochimaru ran at Don with incredible speed and stabbed him with his kunai and cheered, Hah, I win! No, you’re wrong. Then Don vanished as water falls to the ground, What?! No!! Then a paper kunai bomb explodes, blasting Amurochimaru onto the wall, and he passes out. Don lands to the ground, Well, that took a lot out of me. He dusts himself off, then heads to the exit. As he gets outside, he hears a voice cheering, Way to go Don! We saw the fight! He turns and sees Kinata and Yamasu running to him with Kimshiko talking as he’s walking to him, Oh, you were very impressive Don, copying his jutsu. Really? Of course, one at your level wouldn’t be able to do it; it takes time to learn and practice new jutsus, especially one not in your chakra nature. So, how do they determine who becomes Genin? They vote… though winning does help, I’m certain all three of you have made Genin. Now go to your homes and get some rest; we’ll have training in the morning. The three of them respond, Yes Sensei. They leave the area and head to their homes. Don enters a small apartment-like building, he closes the door and makes himself food, then sits on the floor at the small table and starts eating. Tony, what’s taking you so long to find me? The next day Don wakes up and heads outside seeing a letter under his mat, he takes it and reads it, From here on, we promote you, Don Montana as a Chunin. What?! He ran down the stairs and through the streets and out to the training field, seeing Kimshiko, Yamasu, and Kinata, and exclaims, I’m a Chunin! Yamasu and Kinata exclaim, What, really?! Yeah, but Kimshiko Sensei, you know why? Yes… It’s because of you using Amurochimaru’s jutsu and learned to use a water clone to your advantage, both complex things to do the average Genin wouldn’t know how to use a clone, let alone summon one, but never mind that; we have training to do for our missions to come. Ok; for starters, we will start with chakra nature, energy, and forms. Don adds, Despite being in the Academy, I still don’t get it. Chakra is our energy that allows us to move and use ninjutsu. It’s all around us in living things and once living things. If you use all your chakra, you won’t be able to move and will take extreme damage from the enemy you’re fully received; think of it as the blood flowing in your body. Moving on to chakra nature; chakra nature is what you’re born with. For example, Don, you’re born with fire nature, you can use other jutsu as you’ve seen; you just have to learn them. Being born with one doesn’t mean you can’t use others, Yamasu… Yes, Sensei! What’s your first jutsu you used? It was Chidori, Sensei. Hm, your chakra nature is lightning. Kinata, what’s yours? It’s earth style. Yamasu spoke, So, you’re saying our chakra nature is from our parents? Yes, if your parents had different chakra natures, you would have the ability to easily learn those natures. What chakra nature are you, Kimshiko Sensei? Fire. For the final lesson is form; you can change the form of your ninjutsu. For example… Kimshiko turns around and begins his signs, Fireball jutsu! A fireball emerges and strikes, then he shouts, Fire dragon jutsu! The dragon charges the burning tree causing the tree to burn more. Doing that takes more chakra than normal. That will conclude today’s training; tomorrow meet me at the gates. We will start our practice outside. Everyone responds, Right! Don and the kids left the field and explored the village looking around in the shops, and at a bookstore, Don sees a book titled ‘Makeout Tactics’. Hm, this book… The shop owner spoke, Ah, that series sold millions even in the city. I see, I’ve never seen one in the library. I can’t answer why but it’s popular; I’m certain you’ll like it. Do you have all the series? I have all the current series. There’s still going to be more? As far as I heard. I see, well, let’s see if this is good; I’ll take the series you got. Great! That will be 847 yen. Here you go. Thank you, and remember, take care of these books. With a series this popular, they’re worth a lot more than you think. I will treasure it, thanks. Don left the store and arrived at his home, moving on with his day. A week later, Don is walking in the village as he thinks to himself, Now that I’ve been in the village for a while, I kinda like it here. He arrives at the training field, meeting up with his team, and Kimshiko spoke, Today you will be sparing each other, learn each other’s strengths and weaknesses, for when we do get a mission, that information will be crucial to help you survive and improve as a team. Don, you’re up first against Yamasu, don’t hold anything back, fight as if your life depends on it. They both spoke, Right! The two faced each other on opposite sides of the field as they got in their battle stance, then Kimshiko spoke, Begin. The two charged each other; they clashed kunais then Don swings his leg, but Yamasu jumps as he throws three kunais, but Don shouts, Water style: Water wall jutsu! He blocks the kunais then leaps at Yamasu, and he spoke, Lightning dragon justu! The dragon strikes Don but he vanishes. What?! Don appears behind him and speaks, I’m a master of trickery. He kicks him flying back then adds, Lightning dragon jutsu. A lightning dragon charges Yamasu. As he hits the ground, he gets up quickly and speaks, Lightning flash jutsu! He throws a lightning shuriken tearing through the dragon. As Don narrowly evades, the jutsu Yamasu shouts, Chidori! He rushed him then Don spoke, Water prison jutsu. He traps Yamasu in a water orb. Yamasu gets electrocuted from his jutsu, screaming in pain, then Don releases the jutsu, I win. You have really quick eyes if you can catch me like that. Something of the like. Kimshiko responds, Regardless, that was impressive, and you copied his lightning style, interesting. You can control water, fire, and now lightning. How are you able to do such things? A gift, I suppose. Hmm… let's proceed with training. Don, you will go up against Kinata. Right. Kinata asks, Um, Sensei, if this training is supposed to teach us to capitalize on each other's weaknesses, how do we do that with Don? He… doesn’t seem to have one. Everyone has a weakness no matter how tough they are or how skilled; no one is unbeatable. Yes, Sensei. Rest up, Yamasu, you'll be going up against Kinata. Kinata, Don, you ready? Don answers, Yeah. Yes, Sensei, Kimshiko spoke. Ok, begin! Don rushes her, then Kinata shouts, Earth style: Earth shore jutsu! A wall rises in front of her. Don runs up the wall, getting to the top. Kinata kicks him back and adds, Earth flow river! Don starts to sink in the mud. Kinata spoke, Earth dragon bullet! The dragon head fires mud balls at Don, but he spoke, Water style: wild water wave. He blasts the mud balls, slowing them down, then adds, Earth style: Earth dragon bullet. What now, you're copying my jutsu?! He blasts the mud balls heading toward him and breaks the wall she's standing on. As she falls, Don charges her, but she lands on her feet and evades Don's fist. She then swings her fist, punching him in the gut, making him stumble back. Then Kinata threw down smoke bombs, and as they go off, Don gets surrounded by a cloud of smoke. He places his hands on the ground. Earth style: Earth wall jutsu. Several walls rise around him. He adds, Try and find me. He sinks to the ground, then rises out of the smoke, pulling out his book and starts reading. An explosion goes off in the smoke cloud. As the smoke clears, Kinata exclaims, What?! But how...?! I learn fast and adapt to a situation. Are you sure you want to continue this? He turns the page in his book. Don't lose to you that easily. I'll take that as a no, and I won. He closes his book, and Kinata asks, How so? Allow me to show you. Water clones appear around her in the puddles of water. They rush her, and she holds them back as they vanish with every strike. She lands on one, and then Don sinks to the ground. He reappears, grabbing her legs as two clones kick her in the back and the chest. Then she kneels down as Don rises up. Told you. Kimshiko spoke, Very impressive. Don adds, I'm not a big fan of beating up kids. It's just training, Don. This will actually help them grow stronger. Rest up, Don. Yamasu, ready? Yeah. Kinata, are you ready? Let's do this. Alright... beg- Suddenly, a ninja jumps in and speaks, Kimshiko, we have an intruder at the gates. His power level is off the charts. All skilled shinobi are needed. Right, we'll be there. Let's go, Don. Ok. The ninja jumps off out of sight, then Yamasu asks, What about Kinata and me? Stay here. If we were to be killed, it's best you were left out of it, he responds disappointedly. Yes, Sensei. Don and Kimshiko left the field and headed toward the gate, and they see a man with dirty blond hair with a lab coat. Don exclaims, Tony?! Hi, Don. Then a ninja spoke, Y-you know him? Yeah, he's my cousin. Tony spoke, We gotta go, Don. But how? With this! He holds up a white gun. What is that? It's a portal gun. I had help with it. Now come, we got to go. Fine, but give me a minute... He turns toward the ninjas as Tony walks through the portal and continues, Well, bye everyone. Then Kinata emerges from the crowd and spoke, But you can't leave us, we're a team. Yamasu adds, Yeah, without you, we're not the same. But I must go back; I have business to finish. I'll miss you all. Besides, you can always get another team member. Yeah, but it won't be the same. I'll always be with you in heart and spirit, farewell, everyone. Then he went through the portal.

CHAPTER 3: IMPERIAL BUSINESS

After Don went through the portal, he found himself back at Tony's mansion and spoke, What took you so long, Tony? Oh, I had to make a portal gun to go to whatever place I wanted. How'd you know where I was in? I saw some warriors just before it closed on me. So, who helped you make it? It was- An energetic voice interrupts, Meeeee! A man in a construction suit with a name tag that reads 'Emmet' speaks. Tony shouts, Emmet!! Don't you ever cut me off! Then he punches him to the ground, and Don exclaims, Tony! Don't worry; he can revive if I kill him. How? No clue; he just can. He said something about some imperials did it. I think they experimented on him. Emmet gets up and speaks, They did experiment on me… trying to make an invincible army. Don exclaimed, Damn those imperials!! What? They're the ones that killed my family! Tony responds, Don't worry; we'll help you avenge them. Like I say, 'never mess with a Montana.' First, we're going to need an army. Thanks, guys. Suddenly, troops bust through the windows, shooting. Tony shouts, Oh no, it's The Empire; everyone prepare for a fight! Tony's henchmen start firing back. Then Don sees a troop with red armor with a halberd attached to his back as he shoots down the henchmen with his blaster rifle. Tony, I'll take care of the ones inside; you and Emmet take care of the ones outside. Ok. They leave, and Don jumps down the stairs and speaks, You find entertainment in killing innocent people? Don runs at the troop in red armor and tackles him. The troop kicks Don off and rolls to his feet as he responds, No, but I follow orders, good or bad. Orders are orders. He removes his helmet and sets it down, revealing he has black, bushy, slicked-back hair and green eyes. The name's Zant, Zant Yazuba. Not that it matters anyway since you're going to die. We'll see about that, Zant. Don unsheathes his sword and points it at Zant as Zant pulls out his halberd and does the same. Don swings at him, but Zant blocks, then spins around his halberd, kicking Don back. He lands, pulling out his halberd from the ground; he swings at him, but Don evades and counters, but Zant quickly ducks under the blade, binding back, then flips in the air, landing away from Don and adds, Time to get serious. A powerful force erupts from his spear, then he charges Don, and Don blocks, then counters, but Zant quickly jumps back, then leaps at him with the same speed, but Don narrowly evades his spear as he jumps over him. Then Don swings at his head, but Zant ducks, then kicks Don back. Zant charges him. Don swings at him, but Zant quickly, in a flash, appears in the air swinging at him, and Don blocks, then Zant pulls Don's sword out of his hand and kicks him back. What do you know, I was right; you will die anyway. Then he swings at Don as he leaped in the air. Then a flare was shot in the air, and all the imperials cease fire as Zant halts his blade an inch from Don's head. Then Zant turns around from him, and Don backflips away from Zant. A voice shouts, Everyone fall back to the base! The imperials start to leave as Zant walks away, picking up his helmet. You're lucky General Agent Keys showed up. He puts on his helmet and leaves. Don speaks, Keys… Keys!! He runs outside and sees Keys standing on top of an Imperial Armored Assault Truck that is grey and has a ladder to the side. Keys sees Don and exclaims, Y-you… how are you alive?! I will kill you! Hmph… good luck with that; frankly, I'm a little bored. We can settle things at the Kiyasi Mountains. I'll give you three years to prepare your army; I'll expect a good challenge. The trucks drive off, then Keys adds, Oh, and Don, say hi to my brother for me when I kill you as well! Don walks away, and Tony asked, Hey, Don, where're you going? To get an army. The town's this way. I know. Emmet asks, Then why are you heading the other direction? Because… I'm going to get a book! A book…? I like books! Tony replies, A book, a book's not going to get us an army! Don spoke, See ya! Don, you better meet us back here! I have revenge to get; I wouldn't dream of leaving you to do it. A day later, Don arrives at a small library near the border that reads 'Magical books and spells.' Don enters the building, seeing many books and a stairway leading up. This place itself is magical. A hooded man in a grey robe rises up from behind the counter and speaks with a hollow voice. Welcome. Do you get many customers, I mean being out in some plains near the border? It's got to be slow. I go where I am needed, need you be Kingdom or City, I can provide service to all. Are you Kingdom? Hahaha, trivial question. I appeared before you simply because of your desire to get a book, yet you appear to be heading to Kingdom territory. What book do you seek? Any books of knowledge? Third floor. Don walks up the spiraling steps to the third floor, seeing hundreds of books. He walks around looking at them and spots a book that's black, and the cloaked man made of black mist speaks, That's the book of creatures, it has knowledge of every creature recorded. I'll take it. That will be 2000 dollars. (scoffs)... Here. He hands him 2000 dollars, and the man makes it vanish. Anything else? Do you have any books of spells I can work with? Second floor. Thanks. He heads down the stairs, soon staring at a book that's brown and reads 'White and Black magic.' Oh, this is a good one. That will be 1500 dollars. Gwa! You're really getting on my nerves with that! He hands the man the money and heads down the stairs, heading to the exit. The man speaks from behind the counter, See you again. Don leaves the building and speaks, What a strange man. He turns around, seeing the building is gone. Wh-what the… Don steps back then walks off. A month later, Don's at the mansion and reading his 'Make Out Tactics.' Tony and Emmet arrive with a large army. Hey, Don! Don looks up, closes his book, and stands up. Tony. Yeah! You overdid it. I know, we have about two hundred thousand men and women! Also, we have some generals of our own! Wait, now I have to pay for two hundred thousand people (sobs). Who are the generals? (sighs) My generals come forth. Five people stepped up, and Don spoke, What are your names? A guy with long black hair, hazel eyes, and a name tag William Hughs, prince of the Daedric Empire, Dric. I am ready to fight and die for your cause. From the Kingdom, interesting. You? The guy next to William has brown messy hair and brown eyes. He answers, I'm Eric Hughs, younger brother of William, also ready to die for you. Tony adds, I would have guessed. The guy next to Eric has pale white skin, is bald, and has grey eyes. He speaks, I am Nickoli Oil, ex-imperial officer of the imperial army. Tony spoke, I would have also guessed that, I mean how many imperial armies are there, please tell me. Don asks, What happened to you? I was soaked with bleach and lit on fire. After that, I killed the ones who burned me, chopped them to pieces, and fed them to my dogs. Ok, that's dark. I know. Mwahahaha! Tony adds, Yuck, I don't like that laugh. The next person has brown hair combed back and has three hair strands in front of his green eyes. I'm Ethan Williams, an assassin AKA the Green Flash, ready anytime! Tony responds, Okay, do something cool. Uh, I got nothing right now. Well, then you're not prepared for everything; you already lost that title before you can gain it. Finally, the other guy has short orange hair to his neck and has amber eyes. He spoke, Eon Echunent, I've killed a thousand men in a single night and willing to kill more. Tony spoke, I like this guy. The troops in the back gasp, and Eon replied, What it's not like you didn't kill anyone. We're not gasping for that; it's your last name. Oh yeah, forgot to say, I'm a family member of the most famous assassins! Isn't that something! Tony states, Ah, I knew that name sounds familiar. A voice yelled, Wait, you forgot me! Emmet spoke, Yep, that explains the numbers; I counted six but five are here. I thought I was going blind. A short man showed up, has slick back hair that's both black and white, and holds his axe. Tony exclaims, Where's the rest of you?! Don asks, You're a midget? Really, they prefer little people; me, I'm a dwarf! The name's Balin Thondin, prince of Orzammar, nice to meet you! Tony adds, That's good then, nice to meet you, I'm Tony. Eric spoke, Wait… William adds, If you're a dwarf… Ethan asks, Then where's the beard, is it invisible? I didn't like it, so I cut it off. Nickoli spoke sarcastically, Yay, we have a beardless dwarf on our side. Let's get to the fighting already! Tony asks, Are you a hobbit; you don't look like a dwarf?! He pulls out a fake beard and puts it on Balin. There ye go, that's a dwarf! Balin rips the beard off, and Tony responds, Aw, but it looks flattering! I don't like it. But it makes you look like a real dwarf. Don spoke, Hold your horses, Nickoli; we can't charge the enemy without a plan, we- Nickoli interrupts, Well, I don't need a plan to kill. Tony responds, I will not go unheard! The air fills with silence as Nickoli and Don glare at each other. Tony spoke, Now why is it quiet...?! Ok, everyone, go home and meet back here next month! Don pulls out a kunai and throws it at the top of the mansion, killing an imperial spy still staring at Nickoli. Then William, Eric, Eon, and Ethan vanished as Balin and the other troops leave. Nickoli scoffs as he turns around. You want to know something, Don? What? That story I told you, part of it was a lie. I was burned… but died and yet I live. Emmet asks, How does that work? Tony adds, Yeah, how does that work? How it works… is I'm invincible. I'm a god. Then he walks off, adding, A god, Don, a god! Mwahahaha! Tony shouts, Again, I don't like that laugh! The three walk to the mansion waiting to begin their battle with Keys. A month has passed, and the mansion is repaired as they assemble outside. Don, Tony, Emmet, and Balin are talking in the mansion lobby. Tony spoke, Alright, today is the day we see our army attack! Don adds, We need a leader, and I have already decided to be the strategist. Emmet responds, I could be the leader! Don and Tony shout, No! Balin adds, We need someone with ruling power and confidence. Emmet exclaims, Yeah, me! You're not on the list, that's for sure. I mean you have the confidence but not the power. A young voice spoke, My brother can be the leader. The four turn and see three kids about 17, 16, and 15, with red hair and sky-blue eyes. The kid on the right has combed back hair as the other two have choppy hair, but the one on the left has some black in his hair. Don asks, Who are you? They answer, left to right, I'm Adren...Aaron...Arick... Then they add together, We are sons of Aren Sunscar. Balin mumbles, Boy, talk about twins. Aaron responds, We're not twins. Adren adds, We rehearsed it. Well, you earned a medal for acting, bravo. Don asks, Who's the oldest? Aaron and Adren answer, Arick. Adren adds, Two years apart. Don spoke, Ok, I'll make you the leader then. Tony exclaims, But we just met these guys! I know, but fighting The Empire, when they see a kid in charge, they will underestimate us, and they will fall. Don walks outside and shouts, We have a leader, Arick Sunscar. The others walk outside, and Nickoli yells, What?! You chose a new recruit and not Eon! The man is a famous assassin; his name alone will strike fear into the hearts of the enemy! And that's why I didn't choose Eon because he's a famous assassin. He would attract unwanted attention from men who want to kill him. Eon adds, They can try; they won't lay a finger on me. Nickoli huffs as Don spoke toward Arick, Give your first order, Arick. Okay… Everyone, let's move out, to the mountains! The army marches out riding vehicles, and Don asks, Hey Arick, Aaron, Adren, you have weapons? Arick answers, No. Here. Don hands them longswords, and Adren responds, Longswords? Not just any longswords, but enchanted longswords. See the markings on them? Aaron replied, Yeah. Those are the magic abilities they summon, like fire or earth and other elemental attacks. Really?! Thanks! No problem; these blades are made in the kingdom by the elves, take care of them. Arick adds, We will. Nickoli spoke, Not only did you make one of them leader but you give them enchanted blades. Man, the world we live in. Don't worry, Nickoli's jealous. Get some sleep; the road is long to our stop. Arick replies, Alright. The brothers try to get their sleep, then Nickoli spoke, Man, Don, you treat those kids like they're yours, why is that? I have no time for you, worm, good night. You dare lay your hands on me; I would- You'll what… kill me? Killing me would do no justice since my family has been killed. Nickoli growls then vanishes, and Don closes his eyes, drifting to sleep. The next day, Don woke up and sees the troops camped on the mountains with tents set up around the area. Balin spoke as he pops up by the door, Morning, sleepyhead. Why didn't you wake me up? I didn't want to disturb you. Well, as a strategist, I must prepare strategies early. Don gets out of the truck and walks to the big tent with the other generals waiting. Alright, where's the map of the mountains? A troop spoke, Here, Prime Minister. Don takes the map as he adds, Prime Minister? Yeah, you're our strategist. Yeah, but Prime Minister…? I just became a strategist. I see more to you. The troop removes his helmet; he has natural brushed hair that's orange, green eyes, and a big smile. The name's Mac Suenstin, a sergeant of the army and once served The Empire, I'm here to get my brother back. Your brother is in this enemy army? Yes, he serves under General Drake Siberian. I see, well, it's nice to meet you, Mac. Likewise. Now let's get this battle started; do they know we're here? No, sir. Good, the element of surprise is in our favor. I want Generals Eon and Ethan to lead the frontal assault to the east and west side, surrounding the enemy's central garrison, while Eric and William attack from the south. Tony, Nickoli, and Emmet will guard Arick here. Balin, I leave you in charge of the supplies. Everyone else can act as they see fit. I'll prepare my strategy; a fire attack. Try to keep the noise level to a minimum for the surprise attack to work. Let's begin. The army moved out, and Don overlooked the valley. Eon radioed in, I got the east side, roger. Ethan spoke, Got the west over. Don adds, Good, just wait for Eric and William. Then William spoke, Got the south, waiting for your signal. Ethan responds, You forgot over, over. We're in the middle of war, why should that matter? Don spoke, Oil style: Oil manipulation jutsu. The barrels behind him burst open with oil rising in the air, then it forms into a spear and hurls toward the central camp, splashing everywhere. Then Don spoke, Oil expansion jutsu. As the oil spreads out, Don jumps in the air. Water clone jutsu. Twenty clones appear, and they all speak, Fireball jutsu. The camp gets set ablaze as many imperials run screaming as they are burning. Don lands and spoke, Everyone, charge! The army charges the burning encampment. After walking through the flames, Don sees Zant waiting for him with his halberd at hand, dripping with blood. I'll admit that's an impressive strategy, but it won't work on me. We'll see about that. They charge each other, clashing blades. This time Keys won't save you, he's at Mount Key. Don kicks Zant in the gut, then punches him down, but he quickly gets up sliding back. Then he adds, Impressive, I'll withdraw, for now, next time we meet, you're dead. He ran off. Ethan shouts, We have the camp! Eon asks, Now what? Don answers, We attack what's precious to them, their supply lines. Eon, Ethan, I leave that to you; here's the map. Ethan adds, Right, you can count on us! Take some troops with you. Eon responds, We don't need troops; we'll be fine. They vanish with a blur, and Eric responds, No wonder, Eon killed a thousand troops in one night. Eric, I need you to… where's your quiver? What? Don't you have arrows for that bow? I don't need arrows when I have phantom arrows. Phantom arrows? Yeah, this bow chose me as its master; it's a legendary weapon, mind you. It allows me to fire my arrows, which are visible to me. When it hits, it's visible to everyone, then it disappears a second faster than you know you've shot. I also noticed you have the same vanishing technique as the assassins. Yup, so does my brother! Speaking of which, what's your ability, William? I can freeze time. Man, Tony's good at recruiting people. Eon and Ethan appeared, and Ethan exclaims, We fought a general there! Eon adds, His name is Jacques, and he escaped us. Don responds, He must be their strategist, to predict the supply base would be next and to escape you two… I must ask, was there any supplies there? None. He's good. Balin and dozens of troops marched to them with food. Here's some food, guys; you'll need a break before resuming the assault! The troops put out the fire as everyone starts eating, and Ethan spoke as he's eating, I know this is bad timing, but… Nickoli is on the front lines. Don shouts, What?! Hand me the map! Eon hands him the map, and Ethan spoke as he points on the map, He went down this route. Oh no, Nickoli is heading for a trap. Don ran off to save Nickoli. Later, he sees Nickoli killing imperial troops with his enchanted war axe. Nickoli, fall back; you'll mess up the plan I have set. So, what, I'm a liability? You're not, but you're putting my plan at risk; please fall back. You should see these taunts they threw at me! He hands Don three pieces of paper. The first reads, Why are you in the rear guard, are you too chicken to fight? Then the second reads, What kind of god sits in the back like a coward in battle?! Finally, I thought you're a god, if so, why cower in fear, afraid to break your precious nails. Don burns the notes and asks, How do they even know you're in the rear lines let alone know you're in my army? Spies, perhaps, or… scouts. That's besides the point; I can't let them harm my good name! (sighs) A true warrior doesn't fall for taunts; neither do gods. If you believe you're a god, then fall back. Nickoli thinks to himself then opens his mouth. Alright. Suddenly, a rockslide blocks their path to the central camp, and a voice spoke, Well, well, well, look what we have here. Then a troop in black armor jumps down from the cliff, and Don spoke with disdain. Keys. Looks like I have a two for one. He then pulls two swords; one is enchanted, while the other is poisoned, and adds, Today isn't your lucky day. Another general leaps down; he has brown hair, blue armor, and has an electrical staff on one end and a blade on the other. Nickoli exclaims, Brother?"

CHAPTER 4: A DARK HEART

Don and Nickoli got ambushed by Keys and cut off from their camp. Nickoli recognizes one of the ambush generals as his brother. Nickoli asks, Rasar, what are you doing here? Following my orders, Nickoli. Join us, we can fight them together. I want you to join us, Nickoli. I can’t, they’re losing, join us brother… please. Fine, but you owe me. Alright, let’s kill some troops! Nickoli and Rasar start killing imperials as Don and Keys fight. Keys swung his sword, but Don evades, then counters, but Keys blocks with his poison sword, then swung his enchanted sword, and Don blocks. Revenge will only take you so far, Don, just accept death. You murdered my family, my kids, my wife. We had a life, we were happy, and you took them from me. For that, I will stop at nothing until you and your associates pay, even if I must travel halfway from Kirkoff. I will avenge my family, even if I must wait a thousand years. You will all die! Don kicks him back as he slams into the rocks. Don leaps at him, but Keys rolls out of the way as Don slashes the rocks. Keys swung at his back. The wraith spoke, Duck! Don ducks, then lunges his sword at him, but Keys backflips as Don turns to him. Keys places his hand on his side as blood drips down his armor. You’re fast. And you’re dead. An officer leaps down the area. He has combed hair to the side that's orange, blue eyes, and holds a gunblade. Am I late, sir? Not at all, Jacques. I was just teaching this beast a lesson. The two charge Don and swung at him, but he blocks their attack and pushes them back as they slide on their feet. Don rushes Jacques and swung at him, but he dodges his attacks, then swung at him, but Don blocks and counters. Jacques quickly backflips as his sword switches to a gun. He shoots while upside down, scratching his cheek. Then Keys rushes Don from behind, but Don dodges his attack and counters, slashing his back. Ah! Damn you, Don! He turns to him, and Don speaks, Never mess with the Montanas. They charge him as he remains still. Keys swung at him, but Don blocks, then Jacques leaps over Keys attacking, but Don evades his shot as Jacques lands. Don swung at him, but he ducks, then Keys swung at him, and Don dodges, swinging at his head. But Jacques shoots Don’s sword, making him miss. Don dashes at Jacques, but he blocks his attack. So, fast, what are you?! Don remains in silence. Then Keys charges Don, and Don kicks Jacques as he turns and speaks, Chidori… true spear! He stabs Keys’ chest, and his eyes widen with shock. Then he starts coughing out blood, and Jacques exclaims, Sir! Keys speaks weakly, Run, Jacques, head back… to the castle… pull out of the mountains. ... Fall back, retreat everyone! The remaining ambush troops leave with Jacques, and Keys speaks, You know it’s funny. I said I’ll kill you this battle… and what’d you know… I… was killed. Don stares at him with emotionless eyes as Keys continues, Well… brother… It seems like… I’ll see you soon… Don, you must forgive me… orders are orders… I’m sorry, my Emperor… it seems like our dream will not be accomplished, my friend… long live… The Empire. Keys dies, and Don’s jutsu leaves his body as his body falls. Don walks to his corpse and picks up Keys’ enchanted blade. That’s one of many down. Rot in hell, Keys. I will get my revenge, and I will destroy The Empire and the orcs, and nothing will stop me. A voice speaks, I’m glad I had no part of this. A guy drops down from the cliff. He has an orange crew cut, his armor is green with bombs strapped to his waist, and he has grey eyes. Don asks, Who are you? The name’s Max Suenstin– now ex-member of The Empire. Nickoli speaks, You’re Mac’s brother? Yeah, I’m his big brother. Where is he? Don answers, At the main camp. I see. And this rockslide has you cut off from the camp. Let me clear the path for you. I’m a demolition expert in The Empire. Step back. Max puts bombs on the rocks. Fire in the Hole! The rocks blow up. Don responds, Good work, Max. They run to the central garrison, and Don exclaims, Let’s go, we need to follow Jacques to the main camp. Balin, get everyone from the main camp! Alright! He runs off to the main camp. Soon everyone leaves the mountains. Later, they see a castle that’s 100 feet wide and 100 feet tall with escalation. Don speaks, Their leader is at the top of the castle. To break in, we need some siege weapons. Alright, William and Max, I want you to fire at the castle. Eric, I want you to cover from here. Eon and Ethan, you’ll attack with me. Aaron, you can stay here with the turrets. Nickoli, I need you… where’s Nickoli and his brother? Eon answers, Down there. Don sees Nickoli and Rasar running at the castle, yelling, They’re here, the enemy is here! Damnit, Nickoli, stick to the plan. Attack! They move out, and Don fights with Nickoli while Eon fights Rasar. But in a flash, Eon decapitates him. Nickoli yells, Brother! Eon speaks as blood showers him, Never betray us, you bastard. Don adds, The same goes for you, Nickoli. Nickoli responds, See ya. He vanishes in a flash. Then the turrets blast through the gates, and everyone charges the castle and slaughters every troop they see. Jacques and a girl show up in Don’s way to the second level. Suddenly, Ethan jumps in and attacks Jacques. Don looks at the woman who has long black hair, blue eyes, and wears grey armor with a crossbow-sword strapped to her right wrist. Hi, I’m Don. What’s your name? It’s not important since you’re going to die. Jacques shouts, Natalea, attack him! Don adds, Natalea, huh, a woman with a beautiful name that matches her description shouldn’t be on the battlefield to only lose her beauty with these imperials. Come with me, I’ll let you blossom your beauty beside me. You arrogant lout, I will teach you not to play games with me! A voice shouts, How dare you talk to my wife like that! Don sees a man with a beard, short hair, and partial white and green armor. The man continues, Prepare to face the full power of The- Chidori true spear. He stabs the man in the chest and adds, You talk too much. He drops his corpse as Natalea exclaims, No one has ever beaten my husband… Okay, I’ll join you! Jacques responds, Natalea! Ooh, I must surrender. Ethan asks, Why? She’s my sister. Oh, well, we are willing to recruit anyone who wants to join, just don’t betray us or- Eon interrupts, I’ll kill you. Jacques replies, Noted. Don opens the second gate, seeing Zant in the center of the courtyard with his halberd in his hand. Zant speaks, You will not get to my Lord, Drake, our supreme commander. Don charges Zant as he readies himself, but Don bursts into water. What?! Hey! Zant turns and sees Don on the top of the castle. You lied, Zant! Don drops down on the balcony and enters the room, seeing Drake. So, you’re the imperial leader? Yeah. Drake has a crew cut that’s yellow. He wears black robes with a black cape. His left eye is green while his right is hazel. Don draws out his sword as Drake pulls out a blade that emits a red light. Don charges Drake and swings at him, but Drake slices his sword in half. My sword! Don leaps back, evading Drake’s blade. Then Drake speaks, You have no chance against the Grandari. Surrender or die. I choose death. So, be it. Drake cuts Don’s head off. Then Don speaks behind Drake, Hey, Drake. Drake exclaims as he turns around, What?! That was an earth clone. You people are so easy to trick… Multi-earth clone jutsu. Many clones appear and speak, Fireball jutsu. Drake lifts his hands, forcing all the fireballs back, killing all the clones. Then Don appears in the room again behind Drake. You know you should really watch your back. Drake turns as he shouts, What?! How is this possible, this isn’t real! Oh, it’s real, buddy. Don swings at him, but Drake evades and counters. Don leaps to the side. The two stare at each other, then Drake whistles a calling tone and adds, This battle you got lucky, but just you wait. The Empire will not suffer this humiliation! Don rushes him, but Drake leaps to the side and runs to the balcony, then jumps off. Don runs to the balcony and sees Drake riding a dragon with red scales, yellow eyes, and a sharp tail with spikes on its back. Soon the castle is empty of the remaining imperial troops. We’ll meet again, Drake, and you will die. Don heads down to the lower level, leaving the tower, and the world turns dark as his wraith appears. The wraith speaks, Don’t get too attached to these people, Don. Why not? You do not belong in this world. As I have said before, you are banished from life and death. You don’t belong in their world. They are just tools as a means to get our revenge. "I am human too. What do you mean I don’t belong in their world? You are dead, but I am what’s keeping you alive. The orc general Lukias must be found and slain if you hope to break this curse. Won’t I die if I kill him? ... Yes. I see… I’m sorry, but I have too many connections in this world. But I will get my revenge. Be wise with your decisions in this world. The wraith vanishes, and the world returns to its normal form. Don heads down to the lower area of the castle and shouts, Victory is ours! The army lets out a victory shout. Three hours later, at the camp in the mountains, Don is alone, sitting on a large rock, and the wraith appears. What’s the problem? Nothing, it's just… I’m thinking of my family, and I plan to marry Natalea. So, soon? You hardly even know her. Yeah, I know, but when I killed her husband, she switched sides quickly. She’s into strong people. Plus, we can benefit from her being with us. I’m just giving her a reason to stay with us. I don’t care at this point. Just remember not to be too connected. You're already dead, and who’s to say she won’t die in this war? Just remember she’s as much a tool as everyone else is. Do not allow this petty relationship to get in the way of our revenge. Of course not. I won’t be able to sleep, letting my family’s killers live. I’m fully committed to this. Don’t worry, Wraith. We shall see… someone’s coming. He vanishes, and Don sees Zant and speaks, You! Wait, I heard from Keys you’re seeking revenge on The Empire. I want to help. What, why? Keys told me your story. Well, Drake and I have a similar history with them as you. They killed our parent. Not long ago, our parents married, so, Drake and I are brothers now. Why’d you join The Empire if they killed the ones you loved? Survival, join or die. However forced it was, we rose up the ranks rather quickly. My father died that day The Empire attacked. Now we have hope in beating them. I want to help. Welcome to the army. No, I won’t join your army outright, but I will spy for you. Plus, I get to fight you. I love a good challenge. So, be it. You won’t regret this. Zant walks off, then the wraith reappears. I don’t trust him. Keep an eye on him, Don. It’s the spy that determines an army's victory." An hour later, Don marries Natalea as the army celebrates.

CHAPTER 5: THE WAY OF THE ASSASSIN

After Don marries Natalea, the army is celebrating. Eon walks up to Don and asks, So, tell me, Don, what’s the point of you marrying Natalea in the midst of war? Well, Natalea is beautiful. What’s the point not to marry her? I guess, but what if she dies? She won't, I won't let it happen. Right. Tell me how come I sense two people around you? I say this now because we are alone, but I feel cold just being around you. No need to get into- Are you dead? Your eyes tell me you’re dead. The wraith appears, shouting, How dare you bring up such an assertion! "Huh, so you are dead. You can see me? Yeah, I’m an Echunent. Say you look familiar. I never saw you before. What? You don’t remember a boy before I decapitated you?! Don’t you remember working for Danzig Sutaza; my target when I was ten? You must have a good memory of your victims. I remember their names, the place